450 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. tion of persons unlawfully engaged in the liquor traffic and for defraying expenses incident to the temperance movement. For this purpose over twenty thousand dollars was subscribed, the sums given by any one person, ranging from ten dollars to two thousand dollars. On February 11, the London Temperance Association, composed of all who had subscribed to the temperance fund, Was formed, and the executive committee was instructed to draw on the fund for, the expenses in carrying out the laws. Next, the ladies divided their forces into small squads and took their stations in front of the saloons at seven o'clock in the morning and continued until ten o'clock in the evening, relief parties being regularly sent out. On the 17th, the "tabernacle", first made its appearance on the streets. This consisted of a large box-shaped contrivance with comfortable seats for half a dozen persons, enclosed with oil-cloth curtains ain't mounted on small wooden wheels for the purpose of being easily transported from one point to another. February 13, the town council passed an ordinance prohibiting the sale of beer and ale within the corporate limits of London. This, of course was done under the pressure of the temperance movement. On the following Tuesday evening, another saloonist rolled his casks out and emptied the contents on the ground. Friday, February 20, 1874, was pretty generally observed as a day of fast, the business houses were all closed, and many of the citizens attended the services at the several churches. During .the fourth and fifth weeks, the ladies were, for the first time, molested and indecently treated. About this time, another saloonist gave way,. selling out and sending off his liquors and left. town: After the difficulty attending the use of the "tabernacle," that vehicle was discarded, but the policy of sending out daily skirmishers was still kept up. WOMAN'S TEMPERANCE ALLIANCE. The 5th and 7th of March were days of great triumph to the crusaders, for on these days Surrendered two men engaged in the liquor traffic: this being regarded as so great a conquest that nearly all of the bells in town were rung, causing great excitement and Much joy. After the bells had ceased ringing a number of the more enthusiastic temperance advocates met at the Presbyterian church and sang :songs of thanksgiving and praise. On March 6, the Woman's Temperance Alliance of Madison county was organized at the Presbyterian church for the purpose of furthering they cause of temperance. The daily and evening meetings were continued, but by the middle of March the campaign was Considered about at an end, though there still remained a few obstinate scattered forces to subdue: Thereafter, operations were Chiefly confined 'to "Battle Row" and the "forts" in the 'neighborhood of the railroad. At the spring elections, an entire "crusade" ticket was elected. The fourteenth Week of the movement still saw the 'ladies making one visit a day to each of the obstinate rum-sellers, and both morning and evening meetings were in progress, but Several Weeks later street singing and praying was gradually ended. While the “woman's crusade" movement did not perhaps result as successfully as some of the more enthusiastic supporters' of the cause had anticipated it certainly was the means of accomplishing great good by materially lessening the evil arising from the sale of liquor for a period of time and undoubtedly sowed the seed which bore fruit later on in the temperance cause. MADISON COUNTY WOMAN'S CHRISTIAN TEMPERANCE UNION. By Anna Ebner. The Madison County Woman's Temperance Union was formed at South Solon, in June 9, 1890. Mrs. E. J. Dixon, of London, was the first president and Miss Effie Crawford, the first secretary. The early records of this organization 'having been destroyed at the time of the burning of the home of W. H. It Morgan, the writer has MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 451 been able; to gather .only. fragmentary information of its history in the first years of its existence. So far as she has been able to learn, .the .Woman's Christian Temperance Unions of London, Plain City, West Jefferson, Lilly Chapel, Mt. Sterling and South Solon and a flourishing Young. Woman's Christian Temperance Union, of London, comprised this first county organization. The first convention was held at South Solon on June 25-26, 1890; the second at Mt. Sterling a.. year later. Mrs. Lillian Cole Bethel, of .Columbus, was the state lecturer officiating at, the former and the Rev. Henrietta G. Moore, of Springfield, at the latter. The county union has since held conventions annually at various points in the county, each year showing a growth in sentiment and a gain in membership. Today the county organization is composed of fourteen unions with a paid. up membership of nearly six hundred. Those who have served as president of the county . union are as follows, in the order named: Mrs. E. J. Dixon, London; Mrs. Viola Hixon, then of West Jefferson; Mrs. Ida S. Jones, Plain City; Mrs. Elizabeth B. Converse, Big Darby; Mrs. Margaret Hollingshead, Mt. Sterling, and Miss Anna Ebner, London. The Woman's Christian Temperance Union was the direct outgrowth of the "woman's crusade" of 1874 and the organizations in those early years were scattered and not nearly so numerous as they are today. For this reason the state was divided into districts, each of these being composed of a number of counties. Later, as the work grew and the number of unions increased, the county organization was formed as the more logical connecting link between the local and the state . organizations. It was in pursuance of this plan that the Madison county organization was formed and it has carried on its mission through the passing years with persistence, determination and an abiding faith in the ultimate victory of truth and righteousness. Having for its aim the definition of temperance as meaning the prohibition of all things harmful and the moderate use of all things good, it has ceaselessly labored toward this goal, and has witnessed an ever increasing growth of sentiment for the total annihilation of the liquor traffic, cleaner, purer living, a single standard. of morals for the sexes, suffrage for women, the betterment of the race and the uplift of humanity. The present officers are President, Anna Ebner, London; vice-president at large, Clara Stitt, Mt. Sterling; corresponding secretary, Alice M. Brown, London; recording secretary. Anna. J. Lambert, West Jefferson; treasurer, Cora C. Baughn, South Solon. LONDON WOMAN'S CHRISTIAN TEMPERANCE UNION By Anna Ebner. The Woman's Christian Temperance Union is a direct result of the world-famous "woman's crusade" and is the oldest Woman's organization in London. As with other noted movements in the world's history this great moral uprising of the womanhood of America was not an isolated fact. Certain definite causes led up to it and made it inevitable. Among these were : The Civil War, which had fastened drinking habits upon so many of the returned soldiers; the vast influx of foreign immigration which followed that war, bringing with it the drinking habits of the Old World ; the close union between the liquor traffic and the government of the United States, which the War consummated, since it was as a war measure only that President Lincoln consented to the internal revenue tax upon spirituous and malt liquors; the widening of woman's horizon through the work she had accomplished during the War, making it inevitable that when that Work was no longer necessary she should turn her attention to the greatest foe of the home, the liquor traffic. For years Mary A. .Livermore had said: "The temperance question can never he settled until women take hold of it." This was but the voicing of a conviction 452 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. rapidly growing in the public mind. When women, who have always been the greatest sufferers from this curse, had seen homes shattered, loved ones ruined in body and soul, once bright, noble boys and men made brutes and fiends by this infamous traffic; when such women had tested their powers in other lines of endeavor the hour struck and they "took hold." About the year 1830 Mrs. Delecta Lewis led the godly women of Auburn, New York, in a Warfare against the only saloon in the little town in the same manner that was afterward so famous in the world. This was so effective that her son, Doctor Lewis, said in speaking of it in 1874: "More than forty years have passed and that town is still free from saloons." As this event made a sober man of his father, who had previously been an habitual drunkard, leaving the wife and mother to provide for the family needs by the. use of the washboard, it made a deep impression upon them, especially the Son, Dio. In delivering temperance addresses in 1873-74 throughout the country, Doctor Lewis naturally related the story with much feeling. He spoke on December 15, 1873, in Fredonia, New York, and on December 23, in Hillsboro, Ohio, and on the following evening at Washington C. H. With such fervor was it done that the following, morning in Hillsboro a, band of seventy of the leading women of the town, led by Mrs. Eliza Thompson, wife of Judge Thompson, went forth to work and pray for the abolition of the saloon. Immediately the women of Washington C. H., led by Mrs. .M. G. Carpenter, took up the work there and it rapidly spread throughout Ohio and other states.. As soon as the holiday festivities were over the splendid women of London and Madison county took up the work. London was famous for its monthly stock sales, which attracted buyers from all parts of the country, and had some twenty saloons; twenty-seven, I think Mother Stewart says in her "Memories of the Crusade." The women worked effectively and most of the saloons closed or their keepers moved elsewhere. A few refused to be persuaded: Many of the women of London took part in this great crusade, a number of the young girls even helping with the singing. Most of these, have now gone to their reward. Some are still living, honored and revered pioneers of a great and noble cause. ENROLLED FOR TEMPERANCE. The work was well organized in London and was prosecuted with vigor. At a mass meeting of the churches called in the Methodist Episcopal church, the Rev. C. W. Finley asked the :questions : "Shall we do anything for temperance? What shall it be? How many will pledge themselves to assist in the work?" Papers were circulated 'and one- hundred land -forty persons signed, both men and women. The following is the list recorded : John Lohr, Berthier Lohr, S. H. Cartzdafner, Oliver Creamer, S. W. Durfiinger, James Coultas, W. H. Luck, Luke Smith, J. M. Fisher, U. B. Mooman Arthur Slagle, James W. Byers, R. P. Reitzel, L. Minshall, Thomas Wood, S. F. Marsh, E.. R. Watts, B. F. Clark, A. Marshall, F. Shaw, B. Blake, David Rayburn, W. H. C. McCoy, J. A. Lotspietch, W. R. Lotspietch L. G. McCollum, J. M. Lohr, .S. S. Cheseldine, H. Toland, G. A. James, F. M. Durkee, A. T. Wiseman, Charles Monroe, Jesse Farnsworth, Horace Jones, W. P. Crabbe, W. J. Gain, P. C. Cowling, H. .G. Spick, D. Clark, James Clowser, H. Groves, Eli G. Warner, William Ronemous, Moses Bentzel James Watson, James Self, T. D. Turner, Preston Adair, Robert Knight, A. E. Arnett, W. T. Davidson, Leonard Eastman, J. Q. Minshall, Abram Miller, William Chrisman, W. H. H. Morgan, F. M. Chapman, W. M. Kinney, E. J. Myers, George Creath, A. V. Chrisman, George E. Ross Mrs. S. J. Hubbard, Annie Burnley, Dollie McCormick, Jennie Burnley, Bena Bauer, Ella Fisher, Mrs. Thomas Wood, Mrs. S. F. Marsh, Emma Richmond, Mrs. John Dungan, Mrs. W. H. C. McCoy, Selestine McCoy, Mrs. MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 453 A. A. Hume, Mrs. A. V. Chrisman, Mrs. Mary Chrisman, Mrs. Mary Rightsell, Miss Ella Warner, Mrs. Laura McCollum, Sallie Riddle, Mollie Warner, Josie Yates, Mrs. Sarah A. Eppert, Mrs. Kate R. Bentzel, Mrs. James Watson, Mrs. W. P. McLaughlin, Hattie E. Mulford, Sadie Mulford Alice Clark, Jennie Blizzard, Mattie Clark, Mrs. Mattie Handing, Mrs. Doctor Jones, Mrs. Sarah Loh:, Mrs. S. P. Davidson, Mrs. B. C. Long, Mrs. Sallie South, Mrs. M. .Wishlessen, Mrs. H. Burnley, Mrs. Samuel Sidner, Mrs. Lida Sevetland, Mrs. M. E. Jones, Mrs. J. W: Byers, Nelia Capsadell, Lizzie Lennon, Sarah Farnsworth, Mrs. J. S. Davidson. Mrs. Wyatt Minshall, Delia Arnett, Mary Cover, Belle Phelps, .Maria J. Cartzdafner, Mrs: Doctor Williams, Mrs. Sallie Williamson, Kate Hubbard, May Riddle, Ad Minshall, Mrs. Harford Toland, Mrs. T. Monroe, Mrs. S; Blessing, S. Sparks, Mrs: L. Groves, S. J. Gain, M. M. I. Fraher. Sophronia Miller, Lizzie Heaton.. Many others took part in the movement. A committee was .appointed to draft a people's petition or appeal a druggists' pledge, and a dealers' pledge. Meetings were held daily alternating between the Presbyterian and Methodist Episcopal churches. The town was districted and a committee canvassed each district for signers to the appeal. More than one thousand people signed. Another committee called oh the druggists with the druggists' pledge, and still other committees of two, one for each dealer, visited the saloons for the first time. Following this the Women formed in bands and visited the saloons, holding services consisting of singing, Scripture, prayers and exhortations. These were held daily, except Sundays: from January until April. Morning prayer-meetings were also held daily, Papers for a fund subscription were circulated "and twenty-five thousand dollars was subscribed to assist the women in the work by prosecution and as deemed best, so none should be spent to purchase the liquor." THE MOVEMENT SPREADS. Requests came from neighboring hamlets for the women to come and assist in the work at these points and delegations of thirty and more went. The interest in the movement was intense and the power of the Holy Spirit was manifest. On March 2 one dealer signed the pledge, another on March 7, another a few hours later. Another broke up and sold his goods at auction. At the surrender of these parties "all the bells were rung in jubilee, the church bells being rung by the women." A grand Prayer and praise service was held in the Presbyterian church. A day of fasting and prayer was set apart and the business houses were asked to close. The day was kept as planned—a most hallowed day for London. On March 25 the workers resolved themselves into a permanent organization styled the "Woman's Temperance' League of London.'' The officers elected to serve this association ,were : President, Mrs. Jacob Martin; vice-presidents, Mrs. Doctor Jones, Mrs. Richard McCollum, Mrs. Add• Chrisman; corresponding secretary, Miss Mary Warner; recording secretary, Miss Alice Richmond; treasurer, Mrs. Wyatt Minshall ; executive committee, Mrs. S. Sidner, Mrs. John Dungan, Mrs. John Jones, Mrs. Richard Acton, Mrs. A. A. Hume, Mrs. John Kinney, Mrs. L. P. Wildman, Miss Jennie Morgan. The officers were to serve four months and the dues were ten cents a month per member: The term of office was later changed, to one year. The league held regular meetings and was early in co-operation with the state and national Woman's Christian Temperance Unions, which were organized in Jane and November, 1874, respectively. Just when the name of the local organization was changed to Woman's .Christian Temperance Union is not exactly known. The first record of the name Woman's Christian Temperance Union is in November, 1882, but the records for the five years immediately preceding this date have been lost. Many names of well-known and prominent women appear in the lists of officers, most of whom have passed on. But in every list some- 454 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. where appears the name of Miss Jennie Morgan, later Dixon. For more than twenty years she was the honored president until her promotion, March 8, 1914: Through her efforts the county organization was formed and she was its first president. Her sister, Miss Nellie Morgan, was also local president for some years. The greatest result of the woman's crusade Was the awakening of 'the women of the country to a knowledge of the enormity Of the liquor traffic and to a conscious, ness of their own ability to work for its overthrow. The Woman's Christian Temperance Union is recognized as one of the most numerous and effective of women's organizations. Its activities are nation wide and world- wide. It has never set its hand to light or inconsequential things. Through forty different departments this great hoist assails other evils, gives battle for other reforms. Through the divisions of organization, prevention, education, evangelism, legal and social work it reaches out and uplifts and helps humanity everywhere. Prohibition of tobacco to minors, establishment of industrial homes for girls, and places of refuge for fallen women, placing matrons in police stations, advocating an equal standard of morals for men and women, safeguarding child life, betterment of the race, enfranchisement of women and the uplift of humanity are some of its missions. It recognizes that the liquor traffic is the chief destructive force in society, holds the balance of power in 'elections, is the curse of the working man and the sworn foe of the home; that it is at war with every interest of society; is the cause of twenty per cent. of the crime and pauperism, of fifty-five per cent. of the inmates of mad houses and seventy-five per cent. of our poor houses; that it strikes the roses from the mothers' cheeks' and condemns little helpless children to cold and hunger; that it bids defiance to law, is the center of all social and political corruption, and the father of assassination, anarchy and riot. The empire of alcohol cannot be tolerated in the same world with the human race. The liquor traffic must be destroyed. It is with this purpose held steadily in View that this noble band of women in London has worked through the passing years, ever laboring for the object of its mission. At present it numbers more than one hundred and seventy paid-up members. Its officers are: Honorary president, Mrs. Catherine March; president, Mrs. Ola Runyan; first vice-president Mrs. Alice Hathaway ; second vice-president, Mrs. Anna Ebner; corresponding secretary, Mrs. Viola Mayhigh; recording secretary, Mrs. Anna M. Jones; treasurer, Mrs. Elizabeth A. Chance; chaplain, Miss Maggie Becker. and custodian, Mrs. Carrie Long. With these at the helm it is moving persistently forward to the realization of its goal in the comparatively near future, the enfranchisement of women, State-wide and nation-wide prohibition. MADISON UNION. Madison Union, Woman's Christian Temperance Union. of Range township. was organized in October, 1910, at the home of Mrs. Snyder, of Concord. The following is the list of charter members and ladies who organized this union: Mrs. Caldwell, Mrs. Snyder, Mrs. Clark, Mrs. Glispie, Mrs. Stroup, Mrs. Redman and Mrs. Mowery. When this society was first organized it bore the name of Concord Union but on December 12, 1912, it was reorganized under the name of Madison Union. The first officers were Mrs. Caldwell, president; Mrs. Redman; vice-president; Mrs. Mowery. treasurer, and Mrs. Snyder, secretary. The meetings are held at the homes of the different members. This union contains twenty paid-up members at present. It has been very active since its reorganization, responding to the calls of various needs; flowers have been sent to the sick and floral offerings to the dead. It has always answered the calls for help in the different departments of the work and has done a great good in Other MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 455 fields besides that of temperance. The present officers are Mrs. Anna Groff, president; Mrs. Wissler, vice-president. This union has never lost a member by death. ROSEDALE UNION. Rosedale Union, of Pike township, was organized on December 4, 1913, at the home of F. M. Roseberry. There were twenty-three active members and five honorary as follow : Mrs. Mamie Brake, Mrs. Sarah Burnham, Mrs. Ottie Burnham, Mrs. Ellen Foulk, Mrs. Margaret Galloway, Mrs. Ada McCullough, Mrs. Alice Guy, Mrs. Belle McCarty, Mrs. Louie Newman, Mrs. Kate Patrick, Mrs. Nell Thomas, Mrs. Myrtle Weaver. Mrs. Nettie Roseberry, Mrs. Blanche Roseberry, Mrs. Mabel Roseberry, Mrs. Margaret Stoddard, Mrs. Anna Gordon; Edna Tagert, Edna Wintermute, Clara Williams, Carrie Galloway, Bess Williams and Mabel Foulk. The honorary members were Fenton M. Roseberry, Joseph C. Roseberry, John B. Roseberry, M. Eugene Thomas and A. D. Wells. The first officers of this union were Mrs. Ada McCullough, president ; Mrs. Blanche Roseberry, vice-president; Mrs. Margaret Stoddard, recording secretary; Bess Williams, treasurer. The meetings were held at the homes of the different members or at the churches. The organization of this union came about through the efforts of Mrs. Lulu T. Gleason, state organizer, who visited the .homes and schools at Rosedale, stating the work and the object of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union and called a meeting for that night at the above date and place. Twenty-eight responded to the call and formed this union and all have stood faithfully by their pledge and the constitution of the union. The following ladies have joined since the organization: Mrs. Adelia, Mrs. May Stoddard, Mrs. Emma Kennedy, Mrs. Lillie McCarty, Mrs. Florence Guy, Mrs. Edna Sanford, Mrs.. Florence Jackson, Mrs. Laura Y. Kraut, Mrs. Nellie Edge, Mrs. Rosa Houck, Mrs. May Clear; Mrs. Mary Becker, Mrs. Edna W. Dye, Mrs. Lena Mouser, Mrs. Leota Oyler, Mrs. Edna. Trees and Mary Roseberry. The honorary roll has been increased by the following members: Lewis W. Burnham, Ed. M. Stoddard. Pearl Stoddard, Lohren W. Thomas. Charles, P. Guy, Dr. V. D. Krout, E. M. McCullough and Frank Roseberry. The officers for 1915 are Mrs. Nell W. Thomas, president; Mrs. Mamie Brake, vice-president; Mrs. Margaret Galloway, treasurer; Mrs. Rosa Houck, recording secretary; Mrs. Ollie Burnham, .corresponding secretary. BIG DARBY UNION. Big Darby Union, of Canaan township, was organized in 1901 by Mrs. Florence Richards at the Big Darby Baptist church. There were twelve charter members and Nora Hook (now Mrs. Henry Gilliand) was elected as the first president. This union is composed wholly of farmers in that vicinity and a strong sentiment has been created for temperance and woman suffrage unsurpassed in any country place. The people have been very generous whenever an appeal has been made for funds to carry on the work for temperance. The present officers are Mrs. Florence M. Converse, president; Mrs. Lottie Myers, recording secretary; Mrs. Viola. Sherwood. corresponding secretary and Mrs. Della Sherwood, treasurer. The union, has a membership at present of thirty-three. NEWPORT UNION. Newport Union, of Paint township, was organized in Augusta 1908, at the Newport Methodist Episcopal church, the charter members and organizers being Mrs. Elizabeth H. Neff, Mrs. Cora Newsome, Mrs. D. G. Kilgore and Mrs. Funk. The first officers were Elizabeth R Neff, president; Cora Newsome, secretary, and Sarah Kilgore, treasurer. In the seven years of the life of this union great work has been done for the 466 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. cause of temperance. A very successful literary contest was held, which closed with a social banquet. Red-letter days have been observed, musical and vocal contests have been held and free lunch was served to the voters for county option. Although few in numbers and scattered over miles in a rural community, much good has been accomplished by this union both socially and morally. The present officers are Elizabeth H. Neff, president; Ada Nickel, secretary, and Sarah Kilgore, treasurer. PLUMWOOD UNION. Plumwood Union. of Monroe township, was organized on July 5, 1912, at the Plumwood Methodist Episcopal church. The charter members were Mrs. Charles F. Sanford, Mrs. James Stockwell, Mrs. Clyde Armstrong, Mrs. Fannie Wilson, Mrs. Belle Webb, Mrs. Almeda Gammel, Mrs. Maggie Neer, Mrs. Dora Littler, Mrs. Mattie Pratt, Mrs. Laura Murry, Mrs. Eli Holler and Mrs. Bessie Reed. The first officers of the union were Mrs. Charles F. Sanford, president; Mrs. James Stockwell, vice-president; Mrs. Fannie Wilson, secretary and Mrs. Mattie Pratt, treasurer. In May, 1912, Mrs. Florence D. Richards visited Plumwood, giving a temperance address at the Methodist Episcopal church. There being at that time no Woman's Christian Temperance Union at that place she made a plea for volunteers to form a union and quite a number of the temperance people responded. The organization was effected by the county president, Anna Ebner. There had previously been a small union at Plumwood, but it had been discontinued. The new union promised a more substantial growth and has had a prosperous existence. The principles for which the Woman's Christian Temperance Union stand are its chief aim, and the organization is devoting itself to the betterment of the community and the uplift of humanity. The present membership includes Mrs. Stalbird, Mrs. Lon Porter, Rozzie Porter Edna Field, Mrs. Eliza Snyder, Mrs. Colin Costin, Mrs. James Stockwell, Mrs. Maggie Neer, Mrs. Almeda Gammel. Mrs. Mary Wibright, Mrs. Euphemia Lombard, Mrs. Carl Roseberry, Mrs. Mattie Pratt, Mrs. Fannie Wilson. Grace Pratt, Mrs. Charles F. Sanford, Ethel Peters, Eva Peters, Eva Pennel, Florence Spesinger, Mrs. Belle Webb, Mrs. Helen Harbage, Mrs. Haines, Mrs. Roberta Corney, Mrs. Eli Holler, Mrs. Clyde Armstrong and Mrs. Anna Weaver. The officers for 1915 are Mrs. Charles F. Sanford, president; Mrs. CoIla Costin; vice-president; Mrs. Fannie Wilson. secretary; Mrs. Mattie Pratt, treasurer; Mrs. Merritt Stalbird, assistant secretary. PLAIN CITY UNION. Plain City Union, of Plain City, was organized in 1895, with eleven charter members. Mrs. Minerva B. Fleming was chosen as the first president. The following is the complete list of presidents who have served this union: Minerva Fleming, Ida S. Jones, Blanche M. Florence, Elnora Bose, Alice W. Horn, Carrie A. Irwin, Emily S. Smith, Lulu A. Brown, Harriette M. Butler, Florence M. Converse, Ola A. Runyan, Etta Freeman Lane, Frances E. Sanderson and Gertrude Warman. Conventions, medal contests, public meetings and outdoor services have been a part of the work done by this union. The columns of the press have been used to further the cause of temperance, leaflets have been distributed and the efficient Loyal Temperance Legion has been worked seven years. This union carries fifteen departments. It has printed programs and five days of the Chautauqua was devoted to the temperance cause. Many of the best speakers of the country have been brought before the people through the efforts of this union. The meetings are held on the third Friday of each month. Only the fearless wore the white ribbon, the badge of thi society, past the saloons twenty years ago; now the white ribbon is very popular an few fear to wear it. MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 457 This union includes one hundred and thirty members at present. The present officers are Gertrude M. Warman, president; Etta Freeman Lane, vice-president at large; Minnie A. Kilbury, corresponding secretary; Christena Wilcox, recording secretary; Laura K. Kilbury, treasurer; Mary C. Gardner, Ella A. Smith and Gwendolyn Finley, vice-presidents. MT. STERLING UNION. Mt. Sterling Union was organized about the year 1876 with the following charter members: Mrs. McCafferty, Mrs. Kerr, Mrs. Abbie Clarridge, Mrs. William Heath, Mrs. J. Riddle. Mrs. Southward, Mrs. Britt Willoughby, Mrs. Davis, Mrs. Julia Hodges. Mrs. Mary A. McCafferty was chosen president, Mrs. Kerr, secretary, and Mrs. Abbie Clarridge, treasurer. The Mt. Sterling Union was organized by Mrs. Caroline Southward, with nine charter members. These devoted women held their regular monthly meetings and notwithstanding the sneers and scorn of the public they trusted God for their success. Later the membership was assured. Contests were held and this department of the work proved a great factor in increasing the temperance sentiment. The union has always striven for prohibition. There are at present thirty-two active members, two honorary members and one sustaining member. The officers for the present year are Mrs. H. C. Johnson, president; Mrs. Clara B. Stitt, secretary: Mrs. Lizzie Bostnick, treasurer; Mrs. George Waldo, first vice-president; Mrs. 0. W. Bostnick, second vice-president; Mrs. Thomas Carpenter, third vice-president. BIG PLAIN UNION. Big Plain Union was organized in August, 1903, with Cynthia Freeman, Orpha Fitzgerald, Isabelle Warner, Ella Noland, Louisa Corder and Mary Jones as charter members. Madie Crabbe joined this union at the first regular meeting. The first officers were Cynthia Freeman, president; Orpha Fitzgerald, vice-president; Madie Crabbe. secretary, and Mary Jones, treasurer. The first six years this union made but little progress and gained but few members. But during the last six years it has grown from twelve members to thirty-four and is active in all movements of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union school and civic questions, equal suffrage, Charity and all progressive movements are backed by this union. It is strongly active In all movements for the uplift of humanity. The present officers are Maria Cox, president; Anna Young, vice-president; Geraldine Fitzgerald, secretary; Eva Smith, treasurer. The following is the roll of membership for 1915: Maria Cox, Anna Young, Ella Noland, Cynthia Freeman, Orpha Fitzgerald Etta Hotchkiss, Louisa Corder, Jennie Edwards, Maud Edwards, Sarah Oglesbee, Mary Bricker, Emma Edwards, Geraldine Fitzgerald, Eva Smith, Alice Corder, Mary Edwards. Meta Bricker, Allie Beals Corder, Mary E. Bricker, Mary Lukens, Lizzie Funk, Etta Lukens, Mae Whiteside, Ella Harsh, Belle Fitzgerald, Lulu Thomas, Mary Cassady Emma Jackson, Ella Gallagher, Allie Mayhugh, Mabel Edwards, Zoe Delong. May Thomas and Faye Crabbe. The following are honorary members: Frank Edwards, Pearl Hotchkiss, William Noland, Samuel Edwards, Alba Whiteside. The following are juvenile members: Edgar Whiteside, Margaret Young, Emily Edwards, Paul Edwards, Weldon Young, Katharine Fitzgerald, Irene Smith and Cyril Hotchkiss. This union is in a very flourishing condition at present. But four of the original charter members are still active in this union, two of these consecrated women having been taken away by death. A young people's temperance society has but recently been organized and will assist in the prohibition campaigns. 458 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. SOUTH SOLON UNION. South Solon Union was organized at the Methodist Episcopal church of South Solon in August, 1907, with the following charter members: Cora C. Baughn, Geneva Simmerman, Kate Hornbeck; Jennie Rowland, Mrs. Delaplane, Sarah C. Brown, Angie Banion, Lucy Lukens, Elizabeth Skiles, Dora Kennedy, Sarah Banion and Josephine Lower. The. first officers of this, the presnet union, were Cora C. Baughn, president; Kate Hornbeck, vice-president; Josephine Lower secretary; Catharine Delaplane, treasurer. In 1873 the "crusaders" was organized: and the following ladies were active workers in that movement: Mrs. M. O. Crawford, Mrs. Ellen Harrod, Mrs: Margaret McDowell; Mrs. John S. Moon, Mrs. Anna Snodgrass, Mrs. E. R. Clemans and the following who are now deceased Mrs. John Paullin, Mrs. G. W. Atkinson,. Mrs. Perry Larkin, Mrs. Mary .Bostick, Mrs. Joseph Stroup, Mrs. Joseph Shough, Mrs. John Hornbeck, Mrs. O. M. Porter, Mrs. J. C. Smith, Mrs. Andrew Gordin. Perry Larkin and John. Hornbeck, both deceased, were honorary members. TRIALS OF THE "CRUSADERS." An. incident will not, be out of place here in showing the trials of the crusaders. One evening Mrs. M. O. Crawford and Mrs. Nancy Stroup were stationed at Michael Brennan's saloon to keep tab, on the men going in to get their drinks. While sitting there, one on either side of the door, Mrs. Brennan began sweeping. the saloon. When Mrs. Brennan reached the door with the sweepings from the saloon she threw it both ways and literally covered the women. on guard. The women held their ground and had to take the dust, which went in their hair, faces and over their clothes. This was only one of the many hardships encountered by the "crusaders." Following the "crusaders" the first Woman's Christian Temperance Union was formed, and was composed of the following women: Mrs. M. O. Crawford, Mrs. Nancy Stroup, Mrs. John. Pancake (now Mrs. Austin Hutson). Mrs. Sarah Moon, Mrs. Rebecca I.osey. Mrs. 0. M. Porter Mrs. E. R. Clemans, Mrs. Sarah E. Stroup, Mrs. Sophronia Shough. Mrs. Eunice Shoenberger, Mrs. Artinesa Smith, Mrs. Salathiel Johnson. Mrs. Ellen Harrod, Mrs. R. Y. Snodgrass, Mrs. David Vent, Mrs. Dr. John Sidener. Mrs. Jane Corbit, Mrs. J. C. Smith, Mrs. Catharine Morris. and Mrs. Nancy Snodgrass. This union finally died out and the town was without a temperance organization' mail the present union was formed. The present officers are E. R. Clematis, president; Cora C. Baughn, first vice-president; Angie Banion, second vice-president; E. R. Clematis. correponding secretary,; Mrs. B. B. Spohn, recording secretary; Attila Lucas, treasurer. The present membership numbers, twenty-five. The work of this union consists of the regular duties in carrying out the pledge and constitution and also in the work for woman suffrage. Wherever, sickness occurs the the members of this union devote their energies to .aiding the patients and making their quarters more cheerful with flowers. The anti-cigarette crusade is the latest work of the union. CHAPTER XXXII. SIDELIGHTS ON MADISON COUNTY HISTORY. MADISON COUNTY BELGIUM RELIEF FUND. During January and February, 1915, the people of Madison county solicited food. and clothing for the impoverished population of war-stricken Belgium and finally collected a carload of supplies for those unfortunate people. The car was shipped from London on Tuesday, February 23, 1915, with approximately four hundred dollars' worth of food and clothing. When those in charge of the collecting checked up the contributions they issued a public statement exhibiting the complete list of donors and the amounts given. This list is appended: P: G. Overturf; 50 pounds of flour and 5 pounds of beans, value, $2.20; Foster-Green Company, 11 knit shawls and 7 hoods, value $10; P. A: Lanigan, 6 cans corn, value, 50c. ; Miss Behem, Knightstown, Indiana, 2 suits underwear, value, $1; Mrs. George Le Boutillier, Richmond, Indiana, rice and beans, value, $1; J. H. Chrisman, flour and corn meal, Value $2.; Mrs. Xerxes Farrar, 12. cans Karo syrup, value, $2.50; B. F. Wildman, G caps, 3 shirts, .3 -suspenders, 7. pairs baby shoes, 2 bags, etc., value, $3.50; Prof. TV: H. Rice, case of canned corn, value, .$1.50; London Lodge of Eagles, 2 1-2 bushels of •beans, value $10 ; Mrs. George. Shoaf, 2 suits of underwear, value $1.50 ; Mrs. Clark- Sifrit, apron, value, 10c; Mrs. O'Brien, 2 child's dresses, value, 50c.; Mrs. John Ballenger, 3 aprons and 2 suits of underwear, value $2; Mrs. Charles LeBeau, 1 gown and 1 pair of stockings; value 50c.; Mrs. John. Harper, 4 petticoats, value $1; Mrs. Ed McCormack, underwear, value $1; Mrs. P. F. Suver, 2 panties, 2 skirts and 1 apron, value, 75c.; Miss F. Riggin, 1 pair of stockings. value. 10c. ; Mrs. Sam ̊Creamer and Laura Wheeler, stockings, value, 50c.; Mrs. Fred Becker, 2 sacks of corn meal, value, 50c.; Mrs. Sarah K. Robison, 4 sacks of rice and 25 pounds of granulated sugar, value $2.45-; Miss Mollie Donahue corn meal, value; 25c.; Thomas Shea, corn meal, value, 25c.; Mrs. H. W. Gerrard, baby dress, value 50c; Mrs. W. A. Strain, baby dress, value, 50c.; Mrs. Earl Caldwell, baby dress; value, 50c.; M. S. Murray, case canned corn, value, $2; Lou. Coberley. case of canned corn. value, $2; Mrs. Scott Chenoweth, 1 pair of blankets and 1 Waist, value, $2.50; Mrs. Reed Chrisman, 1 apron, value, 40c.; Harry Iliff, red hand box, value, $2; Ladies Aid Society Methodist Episcopal church, 40 pairs of stockings and 20 pairs of bloomers, value, $11; Leroy Cornwell, 9 pairs of stockings and 2 dresses, value, $2.35; Mrs. Leon Lenbart and Mrs. J. C. Mint, 2 cans of fruit, value, 50c.; Mrs. John Mantle, 4 pairs of stockings and 2 pairs of socks. value. $1.25; The Impromptu Club, Mrs. Harry Barker, chairman, case of hominy. case of beans and Case of milk, value, `0; Mrs. Bernier Lohr, 2 aprons, value, 60c..; Miss Grace Vance, stockings, Value, $1; V. D. Chenoweth, 20 pounds cured Meat, value. $3 ; Bess Hunter, 1 can corn; Mrs. Mary James and Mrs. Minnie Christy, 2 pairs of stockings, value, .50c.; Mrs. A. M. Workman, 2 pairs of pants, value, 50c.; Mrs. J. A. Long, Mrs: C. T. Jones, Mrs. Walter Bryan and. Mrs. J. P. Skinner 1 pair of blankets and 1 pair of stockings, value. $1.75; John Peard; 1 case of canned corn, value, $2; Mrs. H. M. Chaney and Mrs. C. E. Thomas. 12 baby dresses, value, $3 ; Mrs. John Mantle, 3 cans fruit, value, 45c.: Dr. E. B. Koontz. malted milk, value, $1.50; Ed. Gillespie. breakfast food, value. 25c.; Mrs. Amos Fatight. 1 apron, value, 25c; the Misses Dooris, 13 cans of hominy and 7 cans of milk, value, $1.65; Frank Jones, beans, 30c.; Ed. Armstrong, clothing, $3; Mrs. George Van Wagener and Miss Jeannette Van Wagener, 19 baby aprons and 6 baby 460 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. kimonas, $6.25; Lewis, Lewis, Green & Davis, case dried peaches, $7.50; Mrs. J. M. Warner and Mrs. R. G. Hornbeck, 5 dresses and 4 skirts, $2.25; Mrs. C. M. Fellows, 1 apron, 35c. ; Martin Moon, underwear, $1; Ladies' Aid Society Methodist Episcopal church, 20 aprons, $5; Meade Allen, beans, 25c. ; Bide-a-Wee Club, 12 pairs of bloomers. $3 ; East High Street Club, Mrs. C. D. Gain, president, 11 petticoats, 12 dresses and 7 sewing bags, $12.50; James A. Morrissey, 16 pounds of tobacco, $7.20; Mrs. Fillmore Jackson, 1 dress, 50c. ; Rea Chenoweth, 10 bushels rye, $10 ; Mrs. H. S. Mitchell, chairman, North Oak Street residents, 21 pairs of bloomers, $10; R. K. Shaw, tomatoes and corn, 30c.; Miss Margaret Farrar, chairman, 11 dresses, $7; R. V. D. Coons, case of corn, $2; Mrs. M. B. Armstrong, 13 pairs of panties, 2 suits of underwear, 5 waists, 2 shirts and 2 dresses. $5.35 ; Mrs. Fannie F. Clark, 3 aprons, $1; Mrs. R. F. Traphagan, 2 dresses, $1; Mrs. Mary Taylor, 2 dresses, $1; Married Ladies' Thimble Club, 40 pairs of stockings, $10; Mrs. Joseph W. Chance, child's gown, 50c. ; M. M. Creath, case of tomatoes, $2.50; Twentieth Century Club, Mrs. Robert Moore, president. case of corn and beans, $2.70; Mrs. H. H. Snyder, baby dress, 50c. ; G. T. Clark, Sr., cash, $1; Young Ladies' Benevolent Society Presbyterian church, 25 children's dresses, $7.50; E. R. Ebner & Sons, 25 pairs of shoes. $40; Mrs. E. W. Richmond, 50 pounds of meal, $1 ; G. T. Clark, Jr., cash, $1; J. Peetrey Clark, cash, $1; Sodality of St. Patrick's church, London, 4 pairs of drawers. 13 suits of underwear, 59 pair of hose. 2 sweaters and 1 night gown, $18.20; Mrs. William Chenoweth, 2 aprons, 75c.; Mrs. Charles Pringle and Miss Nettie Snyder, 3 aprons, $1; Mrs. J. J. Yerian and Mrs. F. M. Dunn, 2 aprons, 75c.; Miss Belle Coberly, chairman, Ladies' Aid Society, Newport, 50 pounds of rolled oats, $5; Joe A. Gardner, pretzel meal, $3.90; Mrs. Clinton Morse, oat meal and corn meal. $2 ; H. F. Fauver, 50 pounds of flour, $2.10; London Mill Company, 4 flour barrels, $1.80; Dr. H. J. Sharp. 50 pounds flour, $2.10. From Lilly Chapel, collected by Frank Stickley—Roy McNeal, beans, 20c.; G. Frazier, coffee, 20c.; C. Goings, corn meal. Sc.; H. Wright, beans, 20c.; R. Gilliland, beans. 20c.; 4 pounds corn meal, 8 pounds salt, 2 cans milk, 1 pound coffee, no name, 80c. From Plumwood. Arthur Ronemus, chairman-10 pounds beans, 2 bags salt. 4 boxes rice, 1 can rice. I can milk, 1 can tomatoes,. 1 can corn. 2 cans salmon. 1 can prunes; Ray McCarty. beans; Guy Long, corn meal, value, $2.55; bacon and picketed pork. 75c.; Frank Nelson, 3 smoked shoulders. $4.50; C. D. Looker, cash, $1; cash, no names, $3. From West Jefferson—E. W. Johnson. Charles G. High, Farmers' Bank. D. H. Elliott and Sam Webb. $12.50; Myron Silver, Joseph Pitmen, Dr. L. E. Evans, C. A. Silver, $15. By John Murray : I'. R. Taylor & Son, $5; L. A. Reason, 50c.; Commercial Bank. $5: J. H. Bidwell. $1; James McDonald. $1; Peter McDonald, $1—totals, $13.50. John Houk. $1; John H. Brake. 50c.; Leonard Morgan, 50c.; George Hann, 50e.; William Roberts, $1; George W. Shade, 50c.; F. B. Biggert, $1; Joseph Stanton, 50c.; W. H. Smith and A. F. Rice, 75c.; Jim Bradley and M. Hedrick. 50c.; Maybelle Keyser and Frank Wise. 75c.; W. A. Beedle, 50c.; Homer Evans, 50c.; F. L. Wright. 0. A. Moulton, J. A. Baer, Alpheus Burrell, Michael Burke, W. W. Byerly, George Baber, E. J. Buckley, H. F. Jackson, S. G. Feder, G. G. Remer, John Goldenberger, Jr., J. D. Baber, Dr. A. F. Green, D. S. Busick, F. S. Busick, $9.75; F. A. Moorhead, Myron Johnson, Jesse Byerly, Alfred Pflll, Webster Olney, M. E. Hummell, C. E. Rhodes, William Engelsperger, A. F. Burrell, W. H. Headley. Henry Alder, Rufus E. Tanner, Coe. Harry Hart. J. W. Ayle and George S. Ayle, $6.10; Dallas Deardoff. J. R. Shepherd, Swain Gregg, S. N. Gunned'. J. H. Johnston, H. W. Goodson, Dr. J. L. Olney, E. J. Fitzgerald. John Holland, James Quinn, M. T. Lacey, Isaiah Shipley. C. S. Smith, William Pennypacker, John T. Silver and J. W. Rector, $13.25; John Murray, 1 barrel flour, $8.40; James McCarty, one-fourth barrel flour. $2; H. W. Brown, one-fourth barrel of flour, $2; Baber Brothers, one-half bushel beans, $2; Mrs. W. E. Haislett, box of groceries, $3; total, $394.20. MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 461 Bought with cash donated : Five and one-third bushels of beans, 100 pounds of hominy, two and two-thirds bushels of peas and 6 dozen cans of milk, from Creath's, $32.17; 3 sacks corn meal, Creath's, 75c.; 50 pounds flour, J. A. Long, $2.10; sugar barrel to pack salt, 10c.; 59 pairs of shoes and boots, $20; 350 pounds of table salt, H. Barker & Sons, $2.50; 4 dozen cans Karo syrup, 4 dozen cans tomatoes and 6 dozen cans of milk, E. L. Brennan, $13; 1 sack beans, 153 pounds, J. A. Morrissey, $10; George Killen, drayage to car, $1. WILD ANIMALS AND REPTILES. Throughout the pioneer days of Madison county, the whole region of country embraced in the Scioto valley, was one vast hunting ground. Here nature's herds lived and flourished, but soon after the coming of the white man, they began to avoid his deadly, aim and seek a retreat in the deeper fastnesses of the forest. Year after year passed away, until finally the larger animals became extinct in this portion of Ohio, and nothing was left for the huntsman but the smaller and more insignificant game and even that is now a scarce article. Through the assistance of Dr. Jeremiah Converse, the historian has been enabled to gather a brief description of the larger wild animals and reptiles that inhabited Madison county ere the progress of civilization destroyed or drove them from its soil. The elk had become extinct prior to the occupancy of this country by the whites; but that the prairies of Madison county had shortly before been their grazing ground is evident from the large number of antlers that were found almost everywhere on top of the grounds partly and wholly buried beneath the soil and turned up in broken fragments by the plow. The elk horn in a perfect state of preservation, especially the larger sizes, is a curiosity to persons who have never seen one. The diameter of the horn to the first prong was usually two or more inches, but where it was attached to the head it often measured from three to four inches. If the pair was perfect with the head of the animal attached, and set upon their points, they would measure from three to four feet in height. Each antler had from five to seven prongs, which were so arranged that when the head and neck were in line with the body, as in the act of running, the largest elk could readily pass through the thickest underbrush with the greatest ease and without any impediment therefrom. Bears were not very numerous but enough were left to remind the settler that when bruin made a raid upon the pig sty, his assured rights were to be respected. Their favorite abode was in the timber along the streams. They were not considered a dangerous animal, except when suffering from hunger, their anger aroused, or their cubs in danger; in which case it required great courage and good generalship to effect a safe retreat and thereby avoid a deadly battle. In the fall and winter, the bears were hunted for their meat and skins. Their flesh was rich and savory, while their skins were tanned and used for robes and bed coverings. PIONEERS' DREADED ENEMIES. The wolves were the pioneers' dreaded enemies and were of two kinds, black and gray. The former was seldom seen, but the latter infested the country in immense packs. The wolf is long legged, with heavy foreshoulders, light hindquarters, very lean and gaunt through the loins, keen eyed, with pointed nose, ears erect and a long busby tail, usually curled between his hind legs, giving him the appearance of a thievish, sneaking cur. The first settlers suffered more from the depredations of these animals than from the depredations of all others combined. The wolves made onslaughts upon the sheep, pigs, calves and colts; and often great numbers would congregate under cover of night and attack individuals who happened to be belated, or even whole families whose 462 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. cabins were isolated from the. more thickly settled country. The wolf had peculiar and distinctive howl, which would be quickly taken up by others and in an incredible short space of time the cries of the pack, would be heard, in every direction, rapidly concentrating toward one point,. The wolf's manner of fighting was quite different from that of the common dog Instead of grappling with its antagonist, its fighting was done by springing forward, snapping or cutting with the front teeth which were very sharp, and then retreating for another opportunity. This method of advance and retreat was rapidly repeated so long as its adversary was within reach; but when their numbers were overpowering, they exhibited a greater boldness and dash, thereby demonstrating their cowardly natures. As the settlements increased, these pests grew beautifully less in, number, their destruction having been encouraged through a premium for wolf scalps, offered by the county commissioners during the first seven years of the county's history. In 1835 an immense wolf hung was organized in the eastern portion of the county, which proved but a slight success, and was the cause of the Rev. Isaac Jones receiving an accidental shot through one of his wrists, which crippled him for life. He had purposed. ascending, a tree so as to obtain a better view of the animals that were to be gradually hemmed in toward that point and shot by him as they came in sight. As a Mr. Pitcher was handing him his rifle ere he got too far up the tree, the weapon was discharged, with the foregoing result. soon after this event, the wolf disappeared from this region, although old ones occasionally were later seen and dispatched. THE USEFUL DEER. The beautiful animal known as the red deer was a .Godsend to the pioneers. From these harmless inhabitants of the forest, accessible at all times, the early settlers procured most of their meat. Deer were very. numerous and more than fifty in one herd have been seen. grazing upon the prairie or "stamping flies" beneath the shady groves; but they were usually .found in pairs, or half a dozen at most, except when chased by the.wolf or dog, at which times large numbers would be aroused from their slumbers and join in the stampede. Not only was the deer. valuable as an article of food, but its skin, when tanned, served many useful purposes. The stalwart backwoodsman generally wore a vest and a pair of "buckskin breeches" made from the prepared hides of these animals. In an untanned condition, or rawhide state, it was cut into strips, twisted, then dried in the sun, after which it served. the purpose of tugs or chains for the settlers' harness; also lines, bridles, mittens, moccasins and other articles used in pioneer life. Wild hogs were frequently met with, and were more dreaded, perhaps, than any other of the wild beasts. The genuine wild boar, exasperated by the hunters, was the most terrible game of the forest, and the hunt was exciting and dangerous. His attack was too sudden and headlong to be easily turned aside or avoided, and the snap of his tusks, as he sharpened them in his fury, was not pleasant music to the timid or amateur hunter. His tusks are known to have measured over a foot in length, and many desperate fights and hairbreadth escapes are recounted in connection with this animal. The wild hog was not valued for its flesh, but was regarded simply as a dangerous pest, and hunted mainly to rid the country of his presence. There were other animals that once inhabited' these parts, such as the panther lynx, native wildcat, porcupine, and the like, but these, like the elk, the bear, the wolf and the more valuable deer, have long since become extinct. Even the fox, raccoon, woodchuck, opossum and squirrel; together with many other small animals, are growing Scarcer year by year under the ruthless hunter's vengeance; and the day is not far distant when Madison' County Will be entirely devoid of the animal as well as the MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 463 feathery tribes that once infested its, forests and prairies. This is not as it should be. The few specimens that are left. ought to be spared, and stringent laws: should he passed to protect those innocent dwellers of the forest and prevent their utter extinction. PASSING OF THE SNAKE. Among the venomous reptiles that once endangered life and limb were the racers, copperheads and prairie rattlesnakes. The latter .were very numerous, as well as formidable and dangerous. The antidote for their bite, however, grew upon the prairie lands. and was a kind of herb called by the Indians "rattlesnake weed." The person bitten, by immediately chewing a considerable 'quantity of the stalk, swallowing' the juice and binding the Pulpy chewings upon the bitten part prevented all ill effects that would otherwise result from the bite. It is well that these reptiles no longer exist in this land, and that all such venomous things disappear before the onward march of civilization. THE BLALOCK TRAGEDY. Intense excitement was caused in Madison county by a deed of blood which occurred in what is now.. Canaan township, on the 29th of September, 1822. There lived in the township at. that time a school teacher named Levi Phelps, a man of so much influence that, upon its erection in 1819, it was, in honor of him, called Phelps township. Near where Mathias Slyh's farm later was located resided George Blalock and family. and with them lived. a Miss Sallie Whitney and Levi Francis. It became the current report that Blalock and this woman were living together. as -man and wife, although not married. At that time, the, settlements were quite scattered, and the settlers became quickly excited at any offense against the morals of the community, deeming immediate justice the best and cheapest punishment under the circumstances. So it appears that this case so shocked the early, residents of that portion of the county that many thought it expedient to put a stop to such licentious conduct. A meeting was held, and it was determined to notify Blalock that if he continued any longer such an immoral example to the settlement, he would, be treated to a coat of tar and feathers' and driven from the community. Blalock was either innocent or defiant, as he paid no attention to the threat. Early one morning, John Kilgore went to Jonathan Alder and invited him to join a crowd. then assembled, whose object was the expulsion of those sinners against the fair name of the neighborhood. Mr. Alder declined taking any part in the affair, and warned Mr. Kilgore that such a proceeding was illegal and dangerous; that, although Blalock was considered a coward, Mr. Francis was not, but, on the contrary, was a man who would most surely resist any demonstration of the, kind. So strongly did Mr. Alder represent the danger and illegality. of the movement that Mr. Kilgore concluded to have nothing to do with it and urged Mr. Alder to go with him to the meeting and persuade the others to abandon the project. To this Mr. Alder consented, and on the way there. all owl flew down from a tree and lit upon the road in front of them. Mr. Alder true to his Indian education immediately exclaimed, "That is a bad omen, and means trouble !" He, however, went to the meeting, and probably would have succeeded ‘in breaking up. the raid had it not been for the influence of Levi Phelps who was determined that Mr. Alder's advice should not be followed. Denouncing the latter bitterly he wound up his harangue by intimating his willingness to assist in putting Mr. Alder's head under the fence and leave him there twenty-four hours, as a punishment for what he considered his officiousness in trying to -prevent the execution of the proposed scheme. The men of peace failed. in their object, and Phelps was victorious. The men blackened their faces, and, thus disguised, Levi Phelps, Robert Patterson, William 464 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. Patterson, Isaac Johnson, Stephen Cary, Caleb Strawbridge, Arnold Fuller, David Garton and others, whose names are not a matter of the older record, marched to the house where Blalock lived. As the fates would have it, neither of the men were at home, and the party retired. A week later another visit was made, which resulted in a bloody tragedy that filled the community with horror. Attempting to force door, they were warned by the inmates that any farther trespass would be dangerous; but, persisting in their efforts to gain an entrance, a gun was thrust through the half-. open door and discharged, instantly killing Isaac Johnson. A few moments later, another shot was fired from the house, mortally wounding Stephen Cary, whereupon the attacking party fled. Mr. Cary was attended by Doctor Wetmore, of Worthington, but died on the following day. Blalock and Francis were arrested and lodged in the Madison county jail, at London. On the 25th of November, 1822, they were indicted by the grand jury for willful and malicious murder, and arraigned before Hon. John A. McDowell, who was then the presiding judge, while Hon. Caleb Atwater was prosecuting attorney. They pleaded not guilty, and elected to be tried by the supreme court. At the July session of the latter tribunal, in 1823, they were tried and acquitted. Thus ended one of the saddest scenes in the history of Madison county, a tragedy that cast its gloom over a whole community, that, prior to its enactment, was peaceful and happy. All of the actors in this tragic affair long ago have gone to their final account and the story, which; for years was familiar to everyone then residing in the county, is today remembered only as a fading dream; but it is known that the name of Phelps became so odious to the residents of the township that the title of the township was changed to Canaan, a word suggestive of joy, happiness and plenty. MOUND BUILDERS. Beginning in the southern portion of Madison county, there is a chain of mounds extending to its northern limits, although with no apparent connection in location or size. It is, however, evident that all excepting one belong to the sepulchral order of mounds, as their constructipn is exactly alike. The largest of the burial mounds is located in Oak Run township, on an elevation overlooking the beautiful valley of Deer creek. It is about two hundred and forty feet around the base, and twelve feet in height, circular in form and gradually tapering toward the summit. In January, 1881, it was opened to a depth of six or eight feet by Mathew Rea and Thomas Roby, who found the remains of two skeletons, the skulls being the only portions in a fair state of preservation. Nothing else was discovered there, the different layers of burnt clay, charcoal and ashes, being the same as in all sepulchral mounds. This mound, doubtless, originally was several feet higher than it is today, and the view to be obtained from its summit is such an excellent one, that it is probable it was also used as a mound of observation. There are two small mounds in Union township, northwest of the mound above referred to, but the plow has so nearly obliterated all evidences of these once sacred spots that little remains to attract the attention of the casual observer. Neither of these mounds have ever been large, not more than from three to five feet in height, and thirty-five feet in diameter. With the exception of the common evidences peculiar to burial mounds, nothing has been discovered in either. The cause of this was, perhaps, the absence of care in opening them, or that atmospheric influences had coin; pletely destroyed whatever remains may have been buried therein, their diminutive size affording little or no protection against the ravages of time. Southeast of the mound in Oak Run township, in Pleasant township, is the remains of what was once a burial mound. It evidently was once of good size, but for many years the leveling process has gone on until its once beautiful symmetrical proportions MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 465 have disappeared. Located in a cultivated field on the east bank of Deer creek it now appears as a large hillock sloping gradually in every direction. There is also.. a small mound near the western line of Pleasant township. One of the handsomest mounds in Madison county is on the east side of Little Darby about one mile southwest of Jefferson. It stands a few hundred yards from the banks of the stream, is about two hundred feet around the base, and ten feet high. Still following the meanderings of Little Darby, northwest of Jefferson, there are four small mounds. When the first was opened a whole skeleton was taken out and the remains of others were discovered. Some distance northwest of this one, but on the opposite bank of Little Darby, are three similar mounds all being about five feet in height, and thirty-five feet in diameter'. These are all in Jefferson township. They have been dug into by different parties and in one was found a copper needle and three slate ornaments nicely polished, with holes drilled through them by which They were suspended, fastened or made convenient for whatever use their owners put them to. It is said that quite a large mound existed at an early day in the southern portion of Deer Creek township, but that a Mr. Ewing scraped it down and erected his residence upon its side. Another burial mound is located on the north bank of Big Darby. about one mile northwest of Plain City, and as this territory originally belonged to Madison county it will be proper to mention it briefly here. It was originally about the same size of the larger mound in Jefferson township, but is much smaller today. In 1848, a society called "the Rectifiers," was organized in Plain City, the object of which was the improvement of morals, the advancement of education, benevolence and institutions of charity, and the development of archaeological history. In 1850, the society opened this mound from which they took the remains of some skeletons. The thigh bones were very massive, while the jaw bones were sufficiently large to slip over the face of the ordinary man, demonstrating that the beings to whom they belonged must have been of extraordinary size and proportions. The teeth were found in an almost perfect state of preservation, and belonged to persons of full growth and well-developed maturity. It is not understood that there was anything else of interest found here but this. like all the other burial mounds, bore the same evidence of the prehistoric age. THE "TEMPLE" MOUND. The largest mound in Madison county, and one of the largest in Ohio, is classed under the head of "temple .mound," is oval in shape, six hundred feet around the base and about twenty-five feet in height. Located upon an elevated ridge in the southeast corner of Monroe township, it overlooks the valley formed. by the junction of spring Fork and Little Darby. the view from its summit being a charming one. Like all temple mounds, it has an unfinished appearance, and presents evidences of steps or inclined planes leading to the top. It is the supposition among archaeologists that this class of mounds, which are not numerous, were surmounted by wooden structures, all traces of which had disappeared long prior to the coming of the white race: During the pioneer days of Ohio the vicinity of this mound was a favorite camping ground by the Indians and it is said that they used the mound for burial purposes. In after years, when the whites had possessed and settled upon these lands the Indians often returned to this spot made sacred as the resting place of their loved ones. Here it was that Tobias Bright shot in cold blood an Indian named Nicholas Monhem, in 1810. which deed created great excitement among the Indians, almost leading to a collision with the whites. Thus it will be seen that this mound which was constructed by one race. way "back in the bygone time; lost 'mid the rubbish of forgotten things," became one of the favorite spots of their successors. (30) 466 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO From the foregoing the reader can glean the knowledge that Madison county, with its silent monuments everywhere spread before wondering eyes, like the everlasting rocks that point the geologist to the past history of the globe, can truly lay claim to being called historic ground. Can it be that these people, becoming very numerous, living in affluence upon the golden riches of the soil vain in their superiority of knowledge, bigoted in their religious superstitions, effeminate and weakened in long security, have met the same fate as the Roman Empire, when barbarians of athletic proportions and warlike prowess swept down from the north, laying vandal hands upon accumulations of art gathered in past centuries? The people were annihilated or driven farther toward the south; their works, all that could be destroyed, were destroyed, and the country allowed to grow up again in its primitive wildness, furnishing hunting grounds for the American Indians. They in turn were driven out by the more powerful white race which now dwells therein, giving to the present generation the Madison county of today, with her well-tilled farms, her schools and churches, her towns and villages,. and her railroad and telegrahpic communications with every portion of the civilized world. LONDON PENITENTIARY FARM. When the "powers-that-be" in the state of Ohio decided to further experiment with the honor system in regard to prisoners at the state penitentiary, they gave evidence of the awakening of public consciousness to the duty that the state owes even to the Inmates of her penal institutions. And when those "powers" purchased one thousand five hundred acres of Madison county farm land to use in this experiment they evidenced even greater foresight. Two years ago there were many idle prisoners in the state, .penitentiary. There was no work for them to do. Those who' were life-term men were kept in close confinement, others were put at work when work was to be had. But the, state wanted them all to be producers—it would be beneficial to them and to the state. Hence the commission appointed by the governor began the search for a suitable site for a new prison farm. with the possibility of locating on it the entire penitentiary plant when the opportunity presented itself. This commission, after carefully investigating every prospect, decided to buy the one thousand five hundred acres, belonging to John Ellsworth, of London, which was located on the Springfield pike. This land was practically virgin soil and an ideal spot on which to build a model farm and prison plant. It was a great expanse of land, only three hundred acres of which had ever been cultivated. Such a field of operations gave a wonderful opportunity to the state to show what could be done by the use of so-called "unskilled" prison labor. FACED ENORMOUS TASK. P. C. Herron was the man selected to superintend the work. His experience on the state experimental farm had fitted him for the place and with C. P. Noggle as foreman, the work was started. These two men faced an enormous task—that of cultivating the three hundred acres of tilled land and of clearing timber from the uncultivated portions so that it could be made productive. To do this meant that men would be needed and men meant adequate accommodations. Hence the first need was that of buildings. The state sent to the farm about twenty-five men who were housed in tents during the summer. These men went to the work of farming the land which could be farmed and also looked after the cattle, which were at once put on pasture to provide an immediate income on the investment. As soon as possible a dormitory was planned and after the usual red tape which surrounds political projects had been unwound, the building was completed. It is one hundred and ninety-two by forty-one feet, one story in height, with a basement, and MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 467 is divided into five sections. At the rear is the enormous kitchen, where a great wood range, presided over by a competent chef, yields "three square meals" a day for the hungry workmen. These men, fifty-one at present (1915) on the farm, eat in a large, airy dining room next to the kitchen. The tables are kept neat and clean and the table ware, while not expensive, is neat and serviceable. In front of the dining Nom is the reading room and barber shop. Here the men gather in the evening and enjoy newspapers and magazines and a' ."good night" pipe. Just forward of this room is the sleeping room. Here are four rows of neat iron beds, one hundred in all, each provided with clean bedclothes made in the shops of other state institutions and as good as could be purchased anywhere. Hooks and racks for clothing are plentiful and benches and chairs are sufficiently in evidence to give the necessary comfort. The front of the building is used as an office and store room. This building, while regarded as temporary, is complete in every way. Toilets and baths are being installed in the basements, running waiter will be provided, electric lights are in place in every room and the whole dormitory is heated by a steam furnace. Such accommodations are in every way superior to the cell blocks in the typical penitentiary and who can believe that the men do not appreciate the opportunity granted them to live in such surroundings? PLANS FOR EXTENSION. The plans for furtherance of the farm project are indeed extensive. Some may be inclined to believe that, with fifty-one men at work every day, supervised by competent and experienced farmers, the entire one thousand five hundred acres should be at the bearing stage of cultivation. Do not be misled by mere numbers. A trip to the farm will soon convince the most skeptical that wonders have already been accomplished and all doubt as to the practicability of the scheme will vanish. Although there are fifty-one working men on the farm, it must not be supposed that all are engaged in farming, In order to care for these fifty-one men and for the products of the three hundred acres under cultivation more buildings were needed. Hence wells were dug, a pumping station installed and a twenty thousand gallon water tank erected. Next work began on a tool and grain shed, one hundred and sixty by twenty-four feet, to house all farm implements and all grain not shipped from the farm. The horse and cow barn, one hundred and seventy by thirty-six feet, is now being rushed to completion. The farm has now on hand about thirty cows which are furnishing milk.. Part of this milk is used by the laborers and the remainder fed to the young calves which are being raised to enlarge the herd. In a short time the dairy herd will be .increased to about fifty cows and consequently it is planned to erect a large and modern milk house. This will be equipped with a cream separator and enough butter sent to the creamery to provide butter for the farm. Any extra butter will be shipped to other state institutions needing it. There also are large hog houses and a complete poultry plant. These things are necessary if the efficiency of the farm is to be up to standard. Then, too, it is necessary to clear several hundred acres of timber land and for this purpose a large saw-mill has been erected and will begin operations in a short time. Just now with all the building that is going on, the farm is short 'of men and another crowd of fifty is expected in the near future. PROFIT FROM CATTLE. There are several hundred acres of fertile pasture on the farm and at present the state has about one hundred cattle fattening on grass. More are being purchased from time to time and the Holstein herd used for dairying is being increased as fast as is 468 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. necessary. In 1914 the state had two hundred and fifty-eight cattle on the farm which yielded a profit of six thousand dollars and it is expected that a great deal more will be obtained. The products of the farm in excess of the amount needed for food and running expenses will be shipped to the various state institutions in return for articles produced there. This system of co-operation between the many state institutions is proving a great factor in efficiency. For instance, the state reformatory, at Mansfield. supplies the London prison farm with all the clothing needed and in return receives whatever farm products it requires. Bulletins are issued at intervals showing what is available in each institution for distribution and any institution has but to send a requisition for the articles and they will be sent immediately. In this way the labor of the men in various places goes to provide necessities and comforts for those in other places and the state is saved the expense of buying from outside corporations at advanced prices. FEARS OF TROUBLE GROUNDLESS. There have been many doubts expressed as to the advisability of placing on their honor, men who have been committed to state prisons. It is argued that men are sent to prison to be punished and that placing them on a farm, under no restraint whatever, removes the sting of punishment. Also, it is claimed, that men will not remain on the farm without constant watching. The record of the state farm at London refutes these arguments. Since prisoners have been on the farm only one has broken his parole and walked away. The men are not guarded—they are sent to the farm to work and are placed on their honor to remain. Their sentences are "indeterminate" under the new law, and if they make good in a year or two on the farm they are in line for an early discharge. The fact that they are not under guard and that they are in the great out-of-doors where each has an equal chance to make good, to make his record show, appeals to the man and he works. He works not listlessly. not as a shirker under compulsion, but as a man who is proud of his ability and eager to prove his worth. The very removal of necessity for routine work gives added pleasure to the out-door labor and the men all show their appreciation. The prison farm is yet in its infancy. The plans are made which will cover years of concentrated endeavor, but the start has been made and it is to be hoped that the project will be carried to completion. It is hinted that within a few years the entire penitentiary, shops.• factories and all, will be moved to the new farm site. The probable location, in such an event, would be on the Ohio Electric railroad, between London and Summerford. At present the farm is here and it will be profitable for anyone to go out and see it. Do not expect too much. Go prepared to grasp the entirety of the proposition; go prepared to realize the enormity of the field and the limited basis given the superintendent and his foreman to work on—then you will be ready to praise the efficiency of Mr. Herron and Mr. Noggle and the state carpenter. Mr. Whittaker, for the splendid plant they have begun. EARLY BURIALS. The following incident was related by Mrs. Alice Eastman, whose father, Mr. Finch, had the personal knowledge of the incident. In the early dais there were not nearly so many undertakers as there are at the present time and coffins were quite often not to be had. very frequently when a person passed away, rough boards were planed off, cut, the proper size and nailed together for a casket. Sometimes the lid was fastenedon with hinges and nearly always screwed fast when the casket was finally closed. Quite frequently they were covered with white muslin for a child and black MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 469 Paper muslin for an adult, but more often they were without covering. The fine shavings from the planing were used as filling in the bottom to lay the body on and for the pillow. When Jonathan Alder died they took a tree trunk of sufficient length, sawed it lengthwise and scooped or hollowed out the inside with a sort of bent drawing knife to make a hollow large enough for the body to lay in. Then auger holes were bored in the corners and after the body was placed in this rustic casket the top was laid on and fastened down with wooden pins driven into these holes and the body was laid to rest. OHIO STATE FISH HATCHERY. The Ohio state fishery, three and one-half miles northwest of London, is a place of great interest. Its present superintendent is George Morcher, who is a native of Seneca county, but has been in his present position nine years, giving most eminent satisfaction, and showing to the state of Ohio that he is fitted by nature and study for the business of fish culture. Mr. Morcher is in love with his work. He is and has always been both a student and a close observer. Book lore alone, has not made him the successful man that he is, but observation, patience, infinite care, have all contributed. After nine years of thought and labor he has developed the fishery into a place of beauty as well as wonder. Nineteen ponds have been constructed and in them are cropies, black and gray bass and cat fish. From these are hatched yearly as high as five hundred thousand fish, all used by the wardens in stocking the rivers, lakes and ponds of the state. Mr. Morcher is engaged in a great work and enjoys the confidence of the officials and people of Ohio. INCIDENTS FROM THE LIFE OF A PIONEER. James Porter, one of the pioneer settlers of Madison county, was born in Baltimore county. Maryland, in 1789. In the year 1.794 his father removed to Ross county, Ohio. Here the boy grew to manhood during an exciting pioneer period, subject to Indian marauding and raids. He took an active part in the defense of the settlers and soon became a noted scout and woodsman. During the War of 1.812 he acted in the capacity of a soldier, scout and dispatch bearer. Owing to his great size—he being six feet six inches tall and weighing from two hundred and seventy-five to three hundred pounds—he was known as "Big Jimmie Porter." In 1817 Mr. Porter married Elizabeth Kilbourn. of Ross county. They moved to Madison county in 1820 and settled in Union township. in what is now known as the West End. Here he commenced to improve a tract of land consisting of one thousand one hundred acres. which lies mostly south. of the present Springfield road. The log cabin in which he went to housekeeping was located on that part of his land which was owned until lately by the heirs of his son, James G. Porter. In October, 1829. Mr. Porter's wife died, leaving six children in his care. As he could not make satisfactory provision for the care and schooling of his children here, he took them to Ross county and placed them among relatives and friends. After returning to Madison county, he continued to make improvements on his land. He was known as an energetic worker, but he was never too busy but that he could make several trips a year to Ross county to see his children. The distance was fifty miles, but he always took it afoot and covered the distance in one day. He was thought to have known more trails and short cuts through the forests of central Ohio than any man in Madison county. In 1834, James Porter married Mary Bradley Tingley, a widow with one child. They went to housekeeping in a house, consisting of two log cabins with an entry between them—a typical cabin of the day. In preparing additional room for his family, 470 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. he built a two-story log cabin close by. When the cabin was completed, he went to Ross county after his six children. The trip was made with the usual conveyance of the day—a wagon and a team of horses. After the family was reunited and installed in their new home, work went on with renewed energy. In 1841 Mr. Porter began to collect material for a new house. The framing and dimension lumber was sawed from logs taken from his own land and hauled four miles to the nearest saw-mill; the weather-boarding, finishing lumber and doors were hauled from Dayton, Ohio; the lath and lime for plastering were brought from Springfield. but the brick was burned on the ground close by. The house was completed and ready for occupancy in December. 1842. The event was celebrated at Christmas time by a housewarming and dinner, to which all his neighbors and friends were invited. This affair lasted for two days. After the house was occupied by his family, he built a barn which, when completed, was one of the largest in Madison county at that time. James Porter was always interested in public affairs, and especially education. He donated the land for the Garrard school house. This house has long disappeared and has been replaced by a brick building in a different location, being now known as the Oak Run school. In 1844, at his invitation, there was a reunion at his home of the soldiers of the War of 1812. A few of those who attended were, Colonel Brush. Doctor Toland, Jacob Thompson, George Cornwell and others from Madison and adjoining counties. In 1850 James Porter was accidentally killed at a house raising. At his death the estate was divided up among his children. By his energy and enterprise he had brought under cultivation between four hundred and five hundred acres of land. The home place came into the ownership of his daughter. Harriet Porter-Coover. This farm was willed by his granddaughter. Bertha Coover, to Madison county as an experiment farm for the advancement of agriculture. James Porter is given as a typical pioneer, whose energy and enterprise, in connection with his compatriots, Samuel Prugh, Valentine Wilson, Matthew Bonner, Jacob Thompson. James Rankin, Thomas Jones, Coleman Asbury and others, through themselves and their descendants. have built up Madison county from a wilderness and have made it one of the leading counties of Ohio. BIOGRAPHICAL THE WATSON FAMILY. Of the early families in Madison county. Ohio, none from their earliest settlement have contributed niore to the general progress of this county, than this sturdy family, whose descendants may yet be found 'occupying conspicuous places in the social and business life of the county today. The Watson family in Madison county dates from David Watson, Sr.. who came to this county when it was but a wilderness and When Indian:, still lived about in great numbers. David Watson was the son of Walter and Rachael Watson, who were born in Maryland. Mrs. Walter Watson was a strong: consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Walter Watson, the father, was noted for his great physical strength. David Watson was born in Calvert county, Maryland. He was a man of keen intellect and in early manhood was noted for his great physical prowess. He left home when fourteen years of age. with a Captain Brandon on a sailing vessel. While on the vessel he discovered a negro slave as a stowaway, whom he secretly fed, and when the vessel reached Beverly, Massachusetts, the negro gained his freedom. David Watson attended school a short time while in Massachusetts, living in Captain Brandon's home, the captain having sailed for England. On March 23. 1798, the captain having returned, David Watson embarked on the vessel' and sailed for Newfoundland and experienced many exciting adventures among the ice floes. He returned home with a great catch of fish and immediately prepared for a second voyage. This voyage took them to the coast of what was then called British America. After this the captain, who had been offered a berth as first mate on a British East Indian merchantman. declined to accept, but gave David his choice of going as a cabin-boy, which he accepted. On this voyage David encountered many experiences, and suffered somewhat at the hands of the captain, who had a very violent temper; he also took part in a fight with a school of whales which attacked the ship, and on this voyage was introduced to Neptune. "the old man of the sea." During this voyage he incurred the captain's displeasure and suffered severely, at one time being flogged with the cat-o'-nine-tails, a punishment inflicted in early seafaring. days. They touched various ports and were on their homeward Voyage when captured and taken prisoners by a French sloopof-war. This was done because France at this time was demanding the return of funds loaned to this country during the Revolutionary War, this incident occurring under the presidency of John Adams. They were taken to Cayenne, South America, the cargo confiscated and the crew thrown in They remained in jail about ten weeks and ht this time, a Captain Adams. of Baltimore, hearing of their imprisonment, came to the jail and inquired if there was not a little American boy in jail. David at once replied, "Yes." He took David aboard his 'ship and sailed for Lisbon. Portugal, where they soon arrived and while there witnessed 472 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. the horrors of an earthquake, which almost destroyed Lisbon. Here they disposed of the cargo and sailed for Hamburg. While at the latter place David had the pleasure of seeing the King and Queen of Denmark. From Hamburg, they set sail for London and, while at this place, saw many criminals hung from the gibbet. From England the ship sailed to Bordeaux, France. After leaving Bordeaux, the ship was seized by a British man-o-war and the cargo confiscated. They at length set sail for New York and in time arrived there, after a voyage from home lasting six years. After arriving, David started for his honie by way of Philadelphia. While in Philadelphia he shipped on a packet and in four or five days reached Alexandria, Virginia. He visited Washington and eventually reached home, his parents during his absence having moved one hundred miles away from their former home and were now living in Frederick county, Virginia. In the fall of 1803, David while attending a religious revival became possessed with great religious fervor. About this time attention was being given to the .great unknown West, to which settlers were flocking each day from beyond the Alleghanies. David .proposed to his father that they move to Ohio and his father consented to David going. promising to come with the family if the new country was as good as represented. A Mr. Helphenstine was going to Ohio about this time and David, joining him, reached Chillicothe in October, .1805. remaining here until the following January. Here they met Colonel Langan). who was starting for the back-country of Ohio to lay warrants and divide land. David and his companion joined him as assistants. They reached their destination, where David assisted in surveying land, of which seventeen hundred acres later became the homestead of David. his property, which he bought with services, also trading his horse and watch for a part of it. The party, including David, returned to Chillicothe. In 1806 David started back to Virginia and, finding many willing to join him, mustered a company of thirty-nine persons, who accompanied him back to Ohio. Of these persons, David Watson was the only one alive in 1870. On this trip. Jonathan Minshall, the founder of the Minshall family. in this state, accompanied him. David Watson's father built a log cabin, as did also Jonathan Minshall, these being the first structures of the kind in this part of the country. About this time the colony felt the need of spiritual guidance and, after consulting with his father and Mr. Minshall, it was decided that Mr. Minshall should bring the Rev. Mr. Lakin. from Chillicothe. who came and delivered the first Methodist sermon preached in this part of the country. Thereafter meetings were held in the elder Watson's home until 1822. During this year David's mother died suddenly her funeral sermon being preached by Rev. John Strange. About 1818, Bishop Asbury visited these parts and David Watson met him at a camp-meeting held where Mechanicsburg now stands. On July 28, 1807, David Watson went to Franklinton to secure a marriage license, and he was married July 29, 1807, taking Mary Helphenstine as his partner through life. She was born on March 5, 1793, her family having been neighbors of the Watsons in the East. They commenced housekeeping in a cabin belonging to a Mr. Smith, which stood where Samuel Watson, the son of David, later lived. Later David and his wife moved into their own cabin, which he had erected, and after encountering many vicissitudes and obstacles of early indebtedness, soon had a start which was substantial for those days. London having been designated as the county seat, cabins were springing up in the new town and. David, having a surplus of farm products, was one of the first to bring foodstuffs for sale into the new town of London. This was about 1810. In 1812 the early settlers, as a consequence of the war of 1812, were called upon MADISON COUNTY, OHIO - 473 to build a blockhouse near where Marysville now stands, David assisting in this. David tad joined a military company that was formed and camped in Franklinton., Becoming. III, he and others were discharged and returned home. From 181.8 to 1824 David Watson was hired to distribute the laws in a district embracing fifteen counties in this section of Ohio. In 1822 David's father died, his mother having died earlier in the same year.. Among the Indians living here David was very popular, and was greatly admired by them for his physical prowess, often wrestling with them. He hired one of these Indians, for the sum of one dollar and a half. to blaze a trail for him to Clifton on the Miami to a grist-mill, the grain having previously been taken to Chillicothe. This was the first path to be opened to the Miami and was much used thereafter. David Watson prospered and might be said to have been one of the most popular men of his day in the county. During his latter years he was a man of great religious fervor and helped to mold the religious sentiment in this part of Ohio. He furthered all good causes and to him the county owes a debt of reverence for his prominent part in the substantial foundation he helped to lay for the present attainments of Madison county. His wife died on January 10, 1855. To their union were born the following children: Sussanah, born on September 29, 1808; James. December 20, 1810; Elizabeth. June 15, 1815; Mary E.. September 16, 1817; Samuel H., September 7, 1821; Isabelle, September 10, 1824; Stephen, June 4, 1827; David, Jr., June 24, 1830; Catherine P., April 26, 1833; Josephine, March 19, 1836; Louisa. December 27, 1840. David Watson, Jr., the ninth child of David and Mary Watson, was born in the old homestead erected by his father and, like most boys of his time, was reared to the pursuit of agriculture. Ile grew to manhood in this county and here spent practically all his life. He was married to Elizabeth Jones, who was born in Madison county, the daughter of John C. and Sarah A. (Taylor) Jones. The Jones family -came to this county from Tennessee in 1821, Zacheus Jones, the father of John C. Jones. removing to this county in that year; his father, Solomon, came to the United States from England. David Watson. Jr., and his wife established themselves in the old Watson homestead erected by his father, which was situated four miles southwest of London, on the Xenia pike. This was the original, land which was bought by David Watson. Sr. David Watson, Jr., was a quiet man, of a retiring disposition, but when the call for volunteers came during the Civil War he volunteered and was selected as captain of his company, serving with credit. He was known and loved for his boundless charity. and his name was synonymous with everything that meant Christian charity and benevolence towards all men. No one was ever turned away from his door hungry and his bounty was extended to all who were in need. He lived an unostentatious life. preferring that his many kindly deeds be received as quietly' as they were performed. He had no ambitions to shine as a spectacular citizen, and preferred to do the little good of each day unheralded and unsung. He was truly a good man, who will ever be remembered as one of the kindliest and most benevolent men who have ever lived in this county. To David Watson, Jr., and his wife were born the following children: Robert, Mary and Louise. Of these Mary became the wife of Lee Williams and lives in London; Robert. now deceased, was a brilliant law student in Harvard University until removed by death in his twenty-fourth year. Louise is the wife of Rea Chenoweth and lives in London. David Watson, Jr., died on June 11, 1886, and his wife died on April 25, 1905. Their remains are interred in Paint township cemetery. 474 - MADISON COUNTY, OHIO. WYATT MINSHALL. For many years no name was better known in the business and financial circles of Madison county than that of Minshall, James Q. and Wyatt Minshall, father and son, having been in their day two of the most prominent figures in the business life of London, the county seat, and thus exerting a wide influence throughout the whole county. The Minshall family was established in this county in 1807, several years before the creation of the county as a political entity, and in all the years since has done well its part in advancing the best interests of the commonwealth. James Q. Minshall. for many years president of the Madison National Bank, of London, father of the immediate subject of this memorial .sketch, was born in Paint township. this county, on March 17, 1815, son of Jonathan and Eleanor Minshall, pioneers of this region, who emigrated from Virginia to Itoss county, this state, in 1806; one year later moving from Ross county to the section now comprised in Paint township, Madison county. where they established their- home and where they spent the rest of their lives. becoming widely recognized as among the strongest factors in the early development of that section of the county. James Quinn Minshall, son of this pioneer pair, began life for himself at the age of twenty-one, at which time he left the parental roof to take a position with one Anderson. who kept a stage station and tavern near by and subsequently a hotel at Lafayette. this county. During three years of such service, James Q. Minshall accumulated the sum of three hundred dollars, which he used to good advantage in setting himself up as a farmer and dealer hi live stock. He prospered from the very start of this venture, his energetic and progressive methods bringing him rapidly to the front, until he presently was recognized as one of the most substantial men in this part of the state. He gradually increased his original land holdings until he was the owner of thirty-five hundred acres of choice land in Range, Paint and Union townships, this county, and was a large stockholder in the Madison National Bank, of London, of which for a long time prior to and until his death, he was the president. Shortly after engaging in business for himself, and with firm faith in his future. James Q. Minshall was united in marriage to Hannah Watson, daughter of Samuel Watson, a well-known pioneer of this county, and to this union five children were born. namely: Wyatt, the immediate subject of this memorial review, Clarestine, Leon. Sarah. and Addle. The mother of these children died in June, 1866, and in April, 1867. Mr. Minshall married, secondly, Lydia Powell, to which union there was no issue. James Q. Minshall died at his home in London. this county, on August 28, 1875, and there was general mourning throughout the county when the -news became known. From a penniless boy, he had attained a position of power in influence in the community. a position he never abused. Tireless in doing good and nobly generous in his private charities. his warm heart and sympathetic nature rendering him incapable of turning a deaf ear to the cry of want, he made for himself a name which long will endure throughout this county. Wyatt Minshall, son of James Q. and Hannah (Watson) Minshall. was born on the the home farm near Midway, in this county, in 1.839. and was reared there, receiving his education in the schools of that neighborhood. On October 21. 1863. he enlisted in Company C Ninety-fifth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was taken prisoner by the enemy shortly after entering the service. After some time spent in a Confederate prison pen he was paroled and returned home. where he was married to Elizabeth Fisher. When his furlough expired, Wyatt Minshall rejoined his regiment. with which he remained until the close of the war, during which time he saw some very brisk action. Upon the cessation of hostilities between the states, Mr. Minshall returned to Madison county and entered upon a business career that proved remarkably successful. For