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SOMERFORD TOWNSHIP.

REV. ELI ADAMS, deceased. The subject of this sketch was born in Worcester County, Md., July 13, 1785. He was brought by his widowed mother to the Western wilds, and settled in what now constitutes the State of Kentucky. when he was but seven years of age. Here he remained until 1808, when he removed to Xenia, Ohio. In 1810, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth Beeks, with whom he lived long and happily In 1814, they both experienced religion. and united with the Methodist Episcopal Church and continued faithful members of the same until death gave them their discharge and reward. Mr. Adams was licensed to preach about fifty years ago; four years after, was ordained Deacon, and, four years from that, Elder. In his private and public relations to the church, he was always faithful, earnest and devoted. He preached a great deal, and was always respected as a very industrious and earnest minister of the Word, and only failed to work for the Master when old age and increasing infirmities rendered it impossible. As a citizen, he stood without reproach or suspicion, strictly upright in all business relations, and much esteemed by his neighbors. His religious life was more distinctly marked by a holy, sweet example than by words or outward professions. He lived well, and around his life there gathered a quiet, spiritual power. Thus was the church blessed through fifty years with this pure and devoted life. Many will rise up in heaven and call him blessed His form and words are gone. but his spirit is indelibly impressed upon our souls. His patience, love and wisdom are more sacred now than when he moved among us. His last sickness was attended with much suffering; yet endured with Christian patience and resignation. Ho peacefully fell asleep in Jesus at the house of his son, Eli, in Madison County, Ohio, May 19, 1870, at the advanced age of eighty-four years ten months and four days. His son. Eli H. Adams, who gave me the above facts, was born April 10. 1817. and is an extensive farmer and stock-raiser of Somerford Township, Madison County.

WILLIAM ALLEN. deceased. was born in Kentucky March 6, 1818, and was a son of Eliza and Nancy (Young) Allen, natives of Virginia. At the age of twenty-one years, he engaged in farming for himself as a renter, and thus continued for five years, when he bought forty-three acres of land in Madison County, which he sold and located on 300 acres his wife inherited from her father's estate. The widow has now 115 acres of the 300 left, to-

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gether with property in Somerford. Mr. Allen acquired a common school education. and was Township Trustee of Somerford Township for a number of years. He was married, December 24, 1840, to Lucinda Wilson, who was born January 7, 1820, in Madison County, Ohio. This union was blest with one child, now deceased. Mr. Allen died January 5, 1882.

WILLIAM ARBUCKLE, farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in Madison County, Ohio, May 28, 1815. and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Bishop) Arbuckle, who were both natives of Virginia. John was married twice. His first wife was Nancy Sturgeon. William. at twenty-three years of age, engaged in working by the month. Thus he continued for one summer, when he inherited 101 acres of land from his father, it being the farm he now occupies. He acquired a very limited education, and was united in marriage with Frances E. Taylor, February 10, 1842. In 1878, she died, leaving him to mourn her loss, and he has remained a widower, living on the farm with his children ever since. He is the father of six children, of whom three survive, viz., John H., Frances Rosaltha and Elmer. Mr. Arbuckle was elected School Director by his neighbors.

CHARLES ARBUCKLE, farmer. P. O. Somerford, was born in Madison County, Ohio, February 1, 1821, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Bishop) Arbuckle, who are mentioned in the sketch of J. L. Arbuckle. Charles Arbuckle, at twenty-one years of age, engaged as a farm hand to work on a farm by the month, and thus continued for five months, when he inherited 170 acres from his father, and commenced farming on that. He acquired a common school education, and was united in marriage with E. J. Richmond February 27, 1845. She was a native of Ohio, born in 1829. To this union have been born four children, of whom three survive, viz. Adelia Ann, Louisa Jane and Laura Frances. Mrs. Arbuckle died June 21, 1855.

J. L. ARBUCKLE, farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born on the farm where he now resides, in Somerford Township, Madison County, Ohio, December 14, 1828, and is a son of John Arbuckle, who was born in Virginia October 2, 1771. He was united in marriage with Nancy Sturgeon, October 3, 1799, emigrated to Ohio, October 27, 1805. and settled in Madison County, where he remained until his death, which occurred September 30, 1845. He was united in marriage with Elizabeth Bishop, his second wife, February 2, 1813, and she died April 8, 1865. J. L. Arbuckle engaged in farming, when he was seventeen years of age, on 170 acres of land, which he had inherited from his father. He acquired a good common school education, and has filled the office of Township Trustee of Somerford Township for two years. He has voted the Republican- ticket ever since the Republican party existed. He was united in marriage with Caroline Houston, November 23, 1852. This union was blessed with four children, viz.: Violie, Walter, Lizzie M. and Flora. Mrs. Arbuckle died March 19, 1866. She was a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Arbuckle has an excellent reputation as a man of correct business habits.

DAVID BALES, farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in Clark County, Ohio, September, 1836, and is a son of hoses and Catharine (Graves) Bales, who were both natives of Virginia. They emigrated to Ohio in 1833, and were married in Clark County, Ohio, in 1834. He was a farmer and engaged in farming. In 1837, they moved onto the farm now occupied by our subject. Mr. Bales was married three times. He was first united with Mary Fish, after her death with Rebecca Stanford, and when she had passed away from earth, he married our subject's mother, who yet survives him,

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now eighty-one years of age. He died September 1, 1849. David was thirteen years of age when his father died, and he engaged immediately in helping to manage the farm When sixteen years old, he went West, and remained there two years, then returned to the old home farm in Madison County, where he has resided ever since. He was united in marriage September 6, 1857, with Jennie Mitchell, a native of Madison County, who was born January 6, 1840. In 1862, he bought an interest in the home farm from one of the heirs, and has since that time purchased until he now has 281 acres of land, in a high state of cultivation. He and wife are the parents of four children-Newman F., Ida E., Charles W. and Flora M. Mr. Bales is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church.

DAVID BROWN, farmer. P. O. Mechanicsburg, was born in Somerford Township. Madison Co., Ohio, April 8, 1833, and is a son of James and Mary Ann Brown. The former was born in New York June 21, 1795, and the latter in Virginia in 1803. James emigrated from New York to Canada when a small boy, and from Canada to Ohio, where he settled in Somerford Township, Madison County Mr. and Mrs. Brown were united in marriage in Madison County, where he died March 13, 1875. Our subject engaged in farming for himself as a renter, when he was twenty-four years of age. and thus continued for three years, when he bought ninety acres of land, which he afterward sold, and in March, 1876, bought the old home farm, where he resides, consisting of 206 acres of land, in a high state of cultivation. He has held the office of Township Treasurer of Somerford Township, has been Township Trustee nine years, and is at the present time Justice of the Peace. He has been married twice; the first wife that blessed his home was Isabella Patrick, to whom he was married April 29, 1857, and by her he had two children, of whom one survives-William Edgar. His first wife died April 21, 1861, and he remained a widower until June 15, 1864, when he was united in marriage with Sarah E. Taylor, by whom he has had eight children, seven surviving, viz.: Frank Irwin, Clara. Ida Belle. Charles D.. John F., Eva G. and Nellie.

A. J. CLINGAN. tailor, Somerford, was born in Maryland August. 21, 1820; emigrated to Ohio in 1839, and, locating in Somerford, has been a resident of this vicinity ever since. He learned the tailor's trade in Maryland, and has since engaged in business for himself: being a practical tailor of long experience, he has secured for himself a large patronage. All the township offices have been intrusted to him, and he is now filling the office of Justice of the Peace of Somerford Township, an office he has held for a number of years. He was married, February 17, 1942, to Elizabeth Ann Clark, a native of Frederick County, Md., who was born January 24, 1824, and to whom have been born seven children, six now living, viz.: Alonzo P., Laura V., Mary J., William L., James H. and Fannie H. Mr. Clingan is a member of the Sons of Temperance and his wife is a member of the Christian Church.

L. H. CREAMER, farmer, P. O. Tradersville, was born February 18, 1840, in Fayette County, Ohio, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Benson) Creamer, who were both natives of Fayette County. Jacob was born in 1809, and Elizabeth in 1813. Our subject was united in marriage November 25, 1856, to Miss Electa Mitchell, a daughter of Newman Mitchell, whose sketch appears in this work. Our subject acquired a common school education, and was elected County Surveyor of Madison County in 1876.

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He is a member of the Masonic order, and has been for sixteen years. He is now engaged in farming on a tract of 200 acres of well-improved land, where he resides. Mr. and Mrs. Creamer are the parents of two children, viz., Iva Iona, born June 17, 1873, and Royalty, born December 1, 1878. Mr. Creamer is a young man of steady habits, and is much respected in the community in which he lives.

W. M. EVANS, hotel-keeper, Somerford, was born in Clark County, Ohio, February 27. 1832, and is a son of John and Sidney Evans, natives of Virginia; the former born February 7, 1806, and the latter April 21, 1809. They were married in Clark County, Ohio. Mr. Evans emigrated with his parents when twelve years of age to Clark County, where he remained until 1848, when he moved to Champaign County, where he remained till his death, which occurred May 11, 1881. Our subject began business for himself when he was twenty-three years of age. by engaging in farming as a renter, and thus he continued five years, when he went to La Fayette, and commenced hotel life; he also farmed and traded in stock until 1867, when he moved to Somerford, and took charge of the hotel, a business he has followed ever since. He was united in marriage with Anna Helmer February 8, 1855. She was born in Champaign County, Ohio, March 21, 1832. To this union have been born three children-Alice, John A. and Emma. Mrs. Evans is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

MATTHEW J. FANVER, grocer, Somerford, was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, August 2t 1834, and is a son of John and Ann (Johnson) Fanver. John was born in New Jersey July 7,1793, and Ann June 15, 1797. They were married in New Jersey in 1816, and emigrated to Dayton, Montgomery Co., Ohio, May 16, 1828, where they remained until their death, he, March, 1877, and she March, 1879. They were the parents of nine children, of whom six are living. Our subject is the fifth son and eighth child of the family, and when he was eighteen years of age he began clerking in a store, and thus continued for eight years. He next engaged in farming, a business he followed for fifteen years. Becoming tired of farming, he moved to Somerford, bought property, and engaged in the mercantile business, which he has followed ever since. He acquired a common school education, and has been a member of the I. O. O. F. Lodge for eight years. He is at this time Township Trustee of Somerford Township. He was united in marriage with Maria J. Prugh May 27, 1858. She was born in Madison County, Ohio, February 17, 1842, and is a daughter of G. W. Prugh, whose sketch appears in, this work. To this union have been born three children, viz., Anna L., born January 1, 1861; Harry F., born October 30,1864; and Augusta L., born July 27, 1875. Politically, Mr. Fanver is a Democrat; for more than fifteen years he and his wife have been members of the Christian Church.

I. N. GARDNER, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Somerford, was born in Champaign County, Ohio, October 7, 1841, and is a son of David H. and Fannie F. (Harris) Gardner. David was a native of Maryland, and Fannie of Washington County, Penn., and they were married in Ohio, He emigrated to Ohio in an early day, and settled whore he remained until his death, which occurred July 23, 1849. He was born in 1803. His wife died March 4, 1851; she was born in 1805. Our subject, when fifteen years old, began working by the month on a farm, and thus continued for two years, when he commenced trading in stock, principally horses, a business he has followed all his life. In 1865, he bought 155 acres of land, and has since added to it until he now owns 355 acres of good land. He acquired

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a very limited education. He has been a member of the Masonic order for twenty years, and is also a member of the American Legion of Honor. He was united in marriage with Cynthia O'Day October 7, 1863. To this union have been born four children, viz.. Jeriah S., born November 8, 1864; Fannie, born May 15, 1870; Harvey, born June 4. 1867; and Baldwin G., born November 6, 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Gardner are members of the Presbyterian Church at London, Ohio.

JAMES Q. GEER, farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in Madison County, Ohio, September 12, 1887; be is a son of James and Rachel (Minchell) Geer, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of Ross County, Ohio. They were married in Madison County in 1823, and were the parents of eleven children, of whom nine survive, our subject being the fourth son and sixth child. His father died when he was but seven years of age, and he was compelled to go to work to help support the family. His mother died in 1855. He was married, October 6. 1859, to Elizabeth Heffley, and soon after his marriage he bought seventy-eight acres of land in Somerford Township, to which he has since added twenty acres, making in all ninety-eight acres of good land. Politically, he is a stanch Republican. By his marriage he has had seven children, of whom six are living-Charles, Luther. Wilbert, Cora L., Guy and Rea. A very sad accident befell Mr. and Mrs. Geer July 6, 1870. when they met with the loss of little Minnie Estella, who fell in the well and was drowned before aid could reach her.

MONMORTH P. GOODYEAR, farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in Pennsylvania June 4, 1830, and is a son of Samuel and Eliza (Timmons) Goodyear, who were both natives of Pennsylvania, where they were married in 1826. Eliza was his second wife; his first wife's maiden name was Sear. They emigrated to Ohio, in 1834. and settled at Springfield, Clark County, where he died August 25, 1878. Elizabeth is still living at the old residence in Clark County. Ohio. Monmorth, at twenty-one years of age, engaged to work by the month, and thus continued for three years, when he bought fifty acres of land in Somerford Township, but afterward traded it for 119 acres, where he now resides. He acquired a common school education, and was united in marriage with Miss Mary Elizabeth McCorkle, December 16, 1856. To this union had been born fourteen children, of whom thirteen now survive, viz.: Naomi J., Charles A., Eliza A.. George S., Mary, Lincoln, Thomas, Luther, Lawrence, Anborr, Emery, William B. and Ulysses G. Mr. Goodyear's son, Charles, is a young man of industry and energy, and is much respected in the community in which he lives. Mr. and Mrs. Goodyear are both members of the Christian Church, and are very pleasantly situated, surrounded with the comforts of life, as the result of their economy and industry.

S. C. GUNDY, farmer, P. O. Mechanicsburg, was born in Washington County, Penn., October 6, 1841, and is a son of James W. and Mary Gundy, who were natives of Scotland. They were married in Scotland, and emigrated to Pennsylvania, where they settled. James died in Pennsylvania in 1848; Mary is still living. S. C. Gundy, at eleven years of age, went to work by the month, and thus continued until 1861, when he began farming as a renter. He was united in marriage with Jennie Weaver. September 9, 1864; she was a native of Pike Township, Madison County, where she was born November 20, 1842. After marriage they moved on their own land, and farmed and cultivated the soil. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the Masonic orders. They have no children of their own. but have an adopted daughter, Alice, who was born July 24. 1867. She has been with

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them since she was two years old, and has been attending school at the convent, in Somerset, one year, and intends to finish her course of education there.

JACOB HEFFLEY, farmer, P. O. London, was born in Greene County, Ohio, January 11, 1822, and is a son of Charles and Elizabeth (Wilson) Heffley. Charles was a native of Lancaster County. Penn., where he was born in 1789. He died August, 1864. Elizabeth was a native of Kentucky, and died in 1855. They were married in Greene County, Ohio, in 1814. Our subject, at the age of twenty-two years, engaged in chopping wood at 371/2 cents per day, and thus continued working by the day and mouth until he was married. After his marriage, he began farming as a renter, and thus continued for four nears, when he moved to Indiana, where he bought eighty acres of land, and remained there seven months, but becoming dissatisfied he sold his land and moved back to Ohio. He began farming again as a renter, for the period of six years, when he bought 10) acres of fine land, where he resides to which he has since added until ho now owns 212 acres of land in Clark and Madison Counties. The land is in a high state of cultivation, with splendid building improvements upon it. He acquired a common school education, in the common schools of Ohio, and was united in marriage with Mary Ann Goodyear, February 20, 1845. She was a native of Pennsylvania. born August 10, 1827. To this union have been born two children, of whom one survives, viz.: Martha Ann.

AMOS J. HOWARD, deceased, was born on Goose Island, in the Connecticut River. Grafton County, N. H., and was the son of Amos and Miran (Mills) Howard, who were natives of New Hampshire. Mr. Howard was born April 9, 1775, and Mrs. Howard, March 18. 1774. They were united in marriage, March 22, 1796, and in the fall of 1808 he moved his family to Virginia, where he engaged in teaching school that winter, and in the spring he resumed his journey down the Ohio River in a flat-boat, to the site where he died. His family consisted of himself, his wife, two daughters and our subject. He remained in that locality until his death. which occurred January 15, 1843; his wife died March 26, 1800. Our subject was only six years old when he settled in Madison County, Ohio. When very young, he engaged in farming and stock-raising, a business he followed until his death, which occurred April 16. 1882. He was married twice, his first wife being Rachel Kirkly, to whom he was married December 22, 1825. and by whom he has five children, all now living, viz.: Napoleon B.. Mary J., John M., Clinton and Marion. She died September 4, 1858, and on March 24, 1861, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Cowan, with whom he lived until his death. Marion Howard. the son who furnishes the above facts, was born in Madison County, Ohio, and now resides with his step-mother on the home farm. He is engaged in farming and stock-raising, and owns 904) acres of splendid land in Madison and Champaign Counties. He is a young man of steady habits, and is much respected in the community in which he lives.

JOHN B. LANCK, farmer. P. O. Tradersville. was born in Virginia January 17, 1814, and is a son of Simon and Mary (Beck) Lanck, who were both natives of Virginia. John emigrated to Ohio by himself. After he was twenty-one years of age. he worked for his father on the farm ten years. and his father gave him sixty acres of land. He. after that time, gave him 100 acres, and John afterward added until he had 426 acres; ho has given 150 acres to his children, leaving for himself 276 acres, which is

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all well improved. He acquired a common school education. He was united in marriage. September 1. 1846, with Louisa Morris, a native of Ohio, where she was born in 1826. By her he has had six children, viz., Catharine S.. Reason G., Simon F., Sallie R., Corwin and John F. The oldest one of the children is the present Representative of Madison County. Mr. and Mrs. Lauck are both members of the Methodist Church.

SCHUYLER LEWIS, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Tradersville, was born in New York February 25, 1812, and is a son of Gardner and Martha (Barber) Lewis, natives of New York, the former born March 3, 1786, and the latter September, 1788. They were married in New York in 1811, emigrated to Vermont in 1822, pressed forward to Ohio in 1836, and settled in Somerford Township. Madison County, where they remained until their death. She died in March, 1845. and he married for his second wife Ruth Hutchison, who lived until September 1. 1880, at which time she died, Mr. Lewis, her husband, having died in 1862. Schuyler engaged in farming by the month at seventeen years of age. and continued, at $8 per month, for eight years, when he bought 100 acres of land, and has since added to it until he owns 1,662 acres of fine land, the most of which is in Madison County. He was united in marriage, October 25, 1836, with Lida Hasard, who died August 8, 1862. He married for his second wife Eliza J. Candler, April 4. 1866, and by her had one child, viz., Howard, born November 22, 1872. Mr. Lewis has had a very limited education, but he has become one of the largest and most successful farmers and stock-raisers in the State.

PHILIP MARKLEY. farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in Somerford Township, Madison County. Ohio, August 12, 1825, and is a son of Jonathan and Mary Markley. Philip, at twenty-one years of age, engaged in farming ; he bought fifty acres of land. and his father gave hint fifty acres more, to which he has since added until he owns, at the present time, 411) acres of fine land in a high state of cultivation. He has been married three times: his first wife was Catharine Kiskeder, to whom he was married in 1847. She died September 12, 1849, and in October, 1851, he was united in marriage with Eliza J. Atcheson. by whom he bas five children living, viz.. William A., Jacob M., Jonathan F., Maria and Eliza Jane. His second wife died May 20. 1861. and he was united in marriage with his third wife October U, 1862. and by her has five children living, viz., Philip M.. John G., Harry K., Bertha R. and Rosa. Mr. and Mrs. Markley are church members, he belonging to the Christian Church and she to the Methodist.

JOHN L. MARSH. farmer, P. O. London, is a native of Clark County, Ohio and is a son of Noah and Eliza (Egman) Marsh. The former was born in North Carolina August 31, 1796. and emigrated to Ohio via Springfield when there were only eighteen houses in the town, the best being a hewed-log building. They first stopped in Champaign County where he remained till 1812. when he pressed forward to Clark County, and then to Madison County. Ohio, where he settled and remained until his death. which occurred February 11, 1853. His wife was born in Ohio February 19, 1798: they were married in Clark County. Ohio, October 5, 1820. John L. Marsh engaged in work for himself at twenty-one years of age. He first assisted on the farm one year, then engaged as a renter, and thus continued for three years. when he bought fifteen acres, and has since added to it until he owns 240 acres: he was married in March, 1859, to Cleopatra Goodyear, who was born in Clark County November 4, 1839. This union has been blessed with eight children, of whom six survive Samuel, Wilbert.

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Henry, Howard. Cora and Toland. Mr. and Mrs. Harsh are both members of the Methodist Church.

NEWMAN MITCHELL. one of the men who helped make a history for Madison County. was born April 29, 1811, on the banks of the Ohio liver, forty miles above Cincinnati, Ohio. He was the son of Ensign and Lucy (Hubbard) Mitchell. His father moved to Madison County, Ohio, and settled on a farm about four and a half miles southeast of Mechanicsburg, in the year 1815. In about the year 1826, his father moved to another farm, near Rosedale. This farm consisted of 600 acres, bought from one Galloway. Newman and his brother Abizar bought 450 acres of this farm from their father, and succeeded in paying for it: he married. January 1. 183 7. Miss Cassandra Bradley, daughter of David and Nancy Bradley, born March 17, 1818, sister to Lawson. David M. and Shelton Bradley. He made subsequent purchases until he owned over 100 acres of land in that settlement; and in 1853 he bought the "'Tom Morris farm," near Tradereville, on to which he moved in that same year. In 1865. he bought the Nathaniel Griffin farm, 433 acres, for which he paid $20,000. He afterward assisted his son-in-law, David Bales. in buying out the heirs in the Bales farm, one mile north of Somerford, consisting of about 355 acres: he then added, by three different purchases. nearly 1,000 acres from the D. W. C. Sawyer farm, adjoining his home farm. His later purchases. made after the war, were in conjunction with his son, Charles Mitchell, as an equal partner. With what he has given to his children, he now owns about 2,200 acres, all of which is well improved: he has always been diligent, industrious and honest. "Uncle Newman's" word has always passed at par value. For many years he has been a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; he has made his money in legitimate enterprises. He never indulged in any "wild cat" speculations. He dealt in cattle and other live-stock. and has generally been an extensive farmer, employing hired help to quite an extent; he has been a good husband, a good father, a good neighbor. a peaceable and law-abiding citizen, and a good example for both young and old. What more need be said of any man.

THOMAS H. NICEWANNER, farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in Washington County. Md., February 1, 1844, and is a son of Henry and and Sarah (Brown) Nicewanner. Henry was a native of Virginia, born in December, 1815, and Sarah was a native of Maryland, horn January 18, 1819. They were married in Maryland. emigrated to Ohio in 1861 and settled in Somerford Township, Madison County, where Sarah died in 1844. He married for his second wife Sarah Smith. Our subject, when twenty-two years of age, began farming and milling, and continued until 1877, when he bought 100 acres of land, sold that and bought 133 acres in Indiana. Soon afterward he sold that and bought town property in Somerford, where be resides. He has held the office of Township Trustee of Somerford Township. He was united in marriage with Nancy A. Ellsworth, December 26, 1868. She was born in Clark County, Ohio, May 1, 1844. To this union have been born five children, of whom four survive-Candy H., Ressie D., Rosa L. and Thursey D. We are called upon to chronicle the sad death of little Willie, which occurred March 29. 1882. While the little fellow was carrying an armful of corn in the barn lot. he was hooked by a cow. causing his death almost instantly. Mr. and Mrs. Nicewanner have been members of the Methodist Church for a great many years.

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WILLIAM M. OVERTURF was born in Ohio, December 21, 1832, and was a son of Solomon and Elizabeth (Griffin) Overturf, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Virginia. They were married in Ohio, where they settled and remained until their death, the former in February, 1847, and the latter in Jane, 1881. They were the parents of ten children, all of whom are living. Our subject, after his father's death, began working for himself as a farm hand by the month, and thus he continned for a time, after which he learned the carpenter trade. He acquired a common-school education, and was united in marriage, August 14, 1854, with Hannah J. Long. Four years after his marriage, he commenced studying for the ministry, and in 1860 he began active service in the Christian Church. He has been engaged in the good work for twenty-two years. preaching in Somerford for sixteen years. Mr. and Mrs. Overturf are the parents of five children, viz.: Frank, Clark. Flora. Elmore and Hattie. Mr. Overturf is held in the highest esteem by his congregation and the people of his community.

JOHN PAINE, retired farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in Maryland, in 1813 and is a son of Jesse and Nancy (Griffin) Paine, who were natives of Maryland. They were married in Maryland, emigrated to Ohio, and settled in Madison County, where they remained until their death, he in 1859, sand she in 1864. Our subject, when twenty-two years old, began working by the job, and thus he continued for two years, when he commenced farming as a renter, and followed this for five years, when he bought fifty-one acres of land, which he worked for himself. He also owns nice town property. He was married four times. The first time he was united in marriage with Jane Helderstine, in 1835. She died in 1840, and he married Sarah Celler in 1842. She passed away in 1844, and he married Betsy Cuberly in 1846. She died in 1848. He remained a widower until 1851, when he was united in marriage with Sarah McDonell. He is the father of twelve children, of whom seven survive, viz.. Arminta, Anna Belle, John W., James O., Catharine. Eliza J. and Mary. Mr. Paine is a member of the Methodist Church, sand is a very pleasant and sociable old gentleman.

G. M. POTEE, retired farmer. P. O. Somerford, is the son of Sutton and Hannah (Markley) Potee, was born in Maryland, March 21, 1817. His parents emigrated to Ohio in September, 1817, and settled in Madison County, where they remained until their deaths, he March 9, 1863, and she February 7, 1868. Gabriel, at the age of nineteen, began farming as a renter, and thus he continued for eight years, when he bought twelve acres of land, to which he has since added until he owns 243 acres, in a high state of cultivation. He acquired a common school education, and has been Township Trustee of Somerford Township for three terms, an office he filled with credit to himself and his constituents. He was united in marriage with Levina Mitchell December 4, 1836 She was a native of Madison County, Ohio, where she was born January 22, 1819, and by this union has had Fight children, of whom five survive, viz., Claudius, Lizzie, Newton, John M. and Nancy A. Mr. and Mrs. Potee have been members of the Methodist Church since they were sixteen years of age.

SAMUEL PRUGH, farmer and stock-raiser. P. O. Somerford, was born in Maryland October 28, 1811, and is a son of George and Margaret (Markley) Prugh, the former of German descent, and the latter a native of Maryland, where they were united in marriage. They emigrated to Ohio in 1812, and settled near Somerford, Madison County. where they remained until their death. Samuel. the third son and fourth child of the family, acquired a

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common school education, and remained at home with his parents until twenty-one years of age, when he went to work for himself by the day as a farm hand, but at the expiration of the first year, he engaged as a renter for a few years. He was united in marriage, March, 1835, with Nancy Bradly. who was born in Greene County, Ohio, November 8, 1818. Soon after their marriage, he purchased and kept a grocery in London, a business he engaged in for three years, at the expiration of which time he and his brother bought 600 acres of land in Union Township, Madison County. He has since added to this purchase until he owns at the present time 960 acres of well-improved land. He and wife are the parents of thirteen children, of whom eleven are living, viz., Ellen, Margaret, Mary, George W., Nancy F., H. H., Malinda, Emma M., Samuel M., Laura E. and James B. Mr. Prugh is a member of the German Baptist Church.

G. W. PRUGH, farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in Somerford Township. Madison County, Ohio, June 16, 1816, and is a son of George and Margaret (Markley) Prugh, natives of Maryland, where they were married. They emigrated to Ohio in 1812. and settled in Somerford Township, Madison County, where they remained until their deaths, the former in 1841, and the latter in 1864. G. W. Prugh. when twenty-one years of age, engaged in farming as a renter, and thus continued for twelve years, when he bought sixty-two acres of land, which he afterward sold, and his wife having inherited 409 acres from her father's estate he farmed that. He acquired a common school education, and has filled the office of Treasurer of Somerford Township for seven years. He was united in marriage with Louisa Wilson February 8. 1838. She is a native of Madison County. and was born January 5,1823. To this union have been born three children, viz. Valentine H., Maria J. and Theodore. Mr. and Mrs. Prugh are members of the Christian Church.

GEORGE PRUGH. farmer, P. O. Somerford. The subject of this sketch was born in London, Madison Co.. Ohio, January 13, 1832. and is a son of Gabriel and Matilda (Wilson) Prugh; the former was born in Mary. land in 1804. and emigrated to Madison County. Ohio. when a boy. The latter was a native of Ohio. They were married in Madison County in 1831, and settled in Somerford Township, where they now reside. George Prugh was engaged for the first few years of his life in working by the month. after which he engaged in farming as a renter, and thus continued for six years when he engaged in taking public contracts, a business he followed for fifteen years at the expiration of which he bought a hundred acres of woodland in Clark County, Ohio. In a short time he sold that, and bought 340 acres of land in Somerford Township. where he now resides, and from which he has since sold 105 acres. leaving 235 acres of good land. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and has held the office of Township Trustee of Somerford Township for five years. He was united in marriage with Julia Connors September 15, 1858. The result of this union has been four children. viz.: Effie. William. Thomas and Lewis. Mr. Prugh lives in one of the oldest houses in Madison County.

JAMES W. D. STATELER. farmer. P. O. London, is a native of Licking County. Ohio. where he was born June 28, 1818. He is a son of Michael and flay (Dunlap) Stateler, who were both natives of Virginia. They emigrated to Licking County, Ohio, and afterward to Madison County, where they settled and remained until their deaths, he in 1842. and she in 1873. James has been engaged in farming and raising stock all his life. He rented land the first ten years, then bought 200 acres of well-improved

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land, to which he has since added until he now owns 480 acres. He acquired a common school education, has been a member of the Masonic order for ten years, a member of the I. O. O. F. for twenty-five years, and has served as Trustee and Clerk of Somerford Township. He was united in marriage to Miss Phebe Round March 23, 1843. This union has been blessed by the birth of eight children, of whom five survive-Michal, Sarah, William, Mary and John.

ASA TAYLOR, retired farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in New York January 20, 1803. and is a son of Andrew and Rebecca (Davis) Taylor, natives of New York, where they were married. They emigrated to New Jersey. where they remained fifteen years, and then emigrated to Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1821, where they remained until after Andrew's death, when the widow moved to Madison County, where she remained until her death. Asa Taylor first engaged to work in a woolen factory, and in this occupation he continued for four years, when he lost his health. The next two years of his life he spent in traveling for his health, and feeling able once more to resume work, he engaged with a man to drive stage, and continued at that business for four years. After he quit driving stage, he moved to the country, and settled within one half mile of where he now resides. He first bought 150 acres of timbered land; sold that and bought 100 acres of improved land. where he resides. He acquired a common school education, and was united in marriage in 1830, with Eliza Comer, who has borne him eight children, of whom six now survive, viz. : David, Oliver, William, Sarah. Sylvanus and Oscar. Mr. Taylor is one of the oldest citizens of Somerford Township.

WILLIAM TETER, farmer. P. O. Somerford, was born in Virginia November 25, 1827, and is a son of John and Dorothy (Lossen) Teter, natives of Virginia. where John was born in 1805, and Dorothy in 1808. They were married in Virginia, where they remained until their death. William emigrated to Ohio in November, 1851, and settled in Madison County. He first engaged as a farm hand, working by the month. and thus he continued for seven years, when he engaged as a renter, and has continued ever since in this capacity. He raises a great deal of stock, principally sheep. He acquired a common school education in the common schools, and was united in marriage, June 8, 1853, with Miss Mary Kennedy.

DAVID WARD, farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in Clark County October 15, 1825, and is a son of Andrew and Sarah (Marsh) Ward. Andrew was a native of Virginia, and Sarah of Clark County, where they were united in marriage. They moved to Madison County, Ohio, in 1842, and settled in Somerford Township, where they remained until their deaths, which occurred in 1852. David Ward, when twenty-one years of age, engaged in farming at $10 per month, and thus continued for four years, when he inherited from his father's estate seventy-five acres of land, to which he has since added until he owns about 700 acres, all well improved. He engages to some extent in the raising of cattle and hogs. He acquired a common school education in the common schools of Ohio. He was united in marriage with Mary Lannon in 1869. To this union have been born four children, all living.

ALEXANDER WEST (deceased). The subject of this sketch was born June 21, 1809, and is a son of Edwin and Margaret (Shell) West. Edwin was born December 17. 1788, and Margaret, December 10, 1782. The subject of our sketch was united in marriage with Elizabeth Curl, March 31, 1831. She was born March 29, 1812. He engaged in farming as a renter

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for the first few years, when he bought seventy acres of fine land where his widow now resides. He acquired a common school education. and served as Justice of the Peace of Somerford Township for a number of years, and was filling that office at the time of his death, which occurred December 20, 1861. Mr. and Mrs. West were the parents of fourteen children. of whom seven survive--Margaret, Sarah, Edmond. Linnie, Samuel, Mary Ann and Thomas. He was a member of the Methodist Church.

JAMES M. WILLARD, farmer. P. O. Somerford, was born in Somerford Township, Madison County. Ohio, October 21, 1829. and is a -son of Abner S. and Hulda (Colver) Willard. The former was a native of Vermont, and he was born in 1791; he emigrated first to Canada, then to New York, and in 1812 to Champaign County, Ohio, where he remained until 1815, when he came to Madison County, where he settled and remained until his death. December 16, 1842. Our subject's mother was born on the banks of Lake Champlain, in the State of New York. 1796. They were married in Madison County. Ohio. in 1817. where she died June 3, 1861. James M. Willard was united in marriage with Ellen Hull November 25, 1851. She was born in Madison County. Ohio, July 2. 1830. Soon after their marriage, Mr. Willard engaged in farming and stock-raising. a business he has followed ever since. He rented land for a few years, when he bought 200 acres, and has since added to it until he now owns 258 acres of well improved land in Somerford Township. He acquired a common school education, and served as Commissioner of Madison County for three years elected by Republican votes. He has held the office of Township Trustee of Somerford Township at different times; has been elected School Director by his neighbors, and has filled that office for twenty years. Mr. and Mrs. Willard are the parents of six children, of whom five are living, viz.: Tabitha, Edwin E., Nettie O.; Louie R. and Horace M. Mr. Willard is a member of the I O. O. F. Lodge, and he and his wife are both members of the Universalist Church.

THE WILSON FAMILY.*

JACOB WILSON. The first authentic information I have been able to gather of this family is that of Jacob Wilson, an Irishman, who had married a German wife. In the year 1790, he left the South Branch of' the Potomac River, in Virginia. not far from Harper's Ferry, and emigrated to Kentucky, to what is now the county of Clark. In the year 1802, after having lived twelve years in Kentucky. he came to Ohio, and settled on the head-waters of Beaver Creek, Bath Township, and county of Greene, near the present site of the village of Fairfield. Jacob Wilson was the father of thirteen children, or of twelve, as some of the friends believe. Their names were as follows, although probably not in the order of their births: Jacob, William, Michael, John, James, Valentine, Jeremiah, Isaac, Daniel, Mary, Eleanor, Elizabeth and Rachel. Some of the friends think there was not one of the name of Rachel.

JACOB WILSON, the first born of Jacob, the first known ancestor, remained in Kentucky until the time of his death, which was at a ripe old age. He became very wealthy. He became the largest holder of slaves in that portion of the State. He enjoyed the unenviable notoriety, also, of being the heaviest weight in that part of the State, weighing, at one time, over four hundred pounds. He and his wife together weighed seven hun

*By William Morrow Beach, M. D.

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dred pounds. He became the father of eight children, one of whom, I think, remained in Kentucky.

WILLIAM WILSON died during the war of 1812, at Fairfield, Ohio, of "cold plague," or cerebro spinal meningitis. He left three children-Susannah, Elizabeth and William.

MICHAEL WILSON died in 1813 at Fairfield, Ohio, leaving three children-Washington, Josiah and Michael. Josiah is said to have been the brightest and handsomest man ever born into the Wilson family. He died at an early age.

JOHN WILSON emigrated from Kentucky to Putnam County, Ind.

JAMES WILSON emigrated from Kentucky to Indiana, settling in the vicinity of Wolf Lake. He became the father of five children.

JEREMIAH WILSON remained in Kentucky until the time of his death, in 1864.

ISAAC WILSON, who came to Ohio with his father in 1802, remained at Fairfield, Greene County, Ohio, until his death, in the spring of 1859. He was a short, heavy, very fleshy man, who, in walking, stepped out little more than the length of his feet.

MARY WILSON married Daniel Funderburg, of Greene County, Ohio, but died when young.

ELEANOR WILSON married John Bradley, of Greene County, Ohio, but subsequently came to Madison County, and both lived and died one mile north of Somerford, where Uncle Wash Wilson now lives.

ELIZABETH WILSON married Charles Hefley, of Greene County, Ohio, but afterward came to Madison County, and settled near Somerford, where both died advanced in years.

VALENTINE WILSON, son of Jacob, the first known ancestor, came to Ohio with his father in 1802. He was born near Harper's Ferry, Va., October 1, 1785. He moved to Kentucky with his father in 1790, when five years of age; and was seventeen when he came to Ohio. In 1806, he was married to Hiss Eleanor Judy, of Greene County, Ohio, daughter of John Judy, a Swiss. and Phoebe (Lamaster) Judy, his wife-a woman of French parentage. To them were born six children-William D., born February 27, 1807; James. born December 20, 1808; John, October 19, 1810; Eli, July 12, 1812; Matilda. October 12, 1814; Malinda, January 12, 1817.

On the 5th day of September, 1818, Eleanor (Judy) Wilson died; and in the year 1819 he was married to Miss Susannah Humble, who became the mother of four children-Lucinda, born January 7, 1820; Washington. September 7, 1821; Louisa, January 5, 1823; Jackson, September 3, 1824.

On the 18th day of August, 1825, Susannah (Humble) Wilson died; and on the 18th day of June, 1827 he was married to Miss Nancy Roberts, who became the mother of nine children- Caroline M., born June 28, 1828; Alexander Hamilton. February 7, 1830; Emeline, September 12, 1831; Mary Ann, October 1, 1832; Valentine C., January 19,1834; Margaret, May 5, 1835, and died in infancy, June 3, 1835; Jacob W., April 29, 1836; Daniel Boone, December 4, 1837; Nancy Frances, October 26, 1840. By the three marriages he became the father of nineteen children, seventeen of whom became heads of families. Margaret died in infancy, and Daniel Boone died, unmarried, at the old homestead. April 26, 1860.

It was not my pleasure to have had a personal acquaintance with Valentine Wilson; but that he was a man of no ordinary gifts, both mental and physical, seems to be a fact of general acceptance among those who knew him the most intimately. He was a Iran of great presence of mind

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which gift stood him in good stead on more than one occasion. Once, when riding. after night, he was halted by highwaymen who suspected him of having money in his possession, whom he completely disarmed by answering in a calm and unruffled tone of voice: "Well, well, boys, you have got me this time; I have 25 cents in my pocket, and if you will go back to the tavern with me, we will take that out in a treat all round." They then let him pass without a search or further parley, without suspicion of the fact that he had upon his person, in "genuine coin of the realm," more than $7,000, besides his 25 cents! He was also an unconscious psychologist. He could divine a man's errand when approaching him, when a long distance off-forming an opinion which was seldom founded in an error, as to whether he was coming to buy, to sell, or to borrow money and he often robbed a refusal of its poignancy, from this latter class, by forestalling them with the question if they knew of any of their neighbors who had $200 or $300 that they would loan for a few days! He died of dropsy, on the 2d day of July, 1855, on the farm where he settled in 1816;. but from the small beginning of 160 acres-his first purchase-in the thirty-nine years of his afterlife, he accumulated about seven thousand acres of land. besides over $60,000 in personal property, and died the wealthiest man who had ever been a citizen of Madison County !

WILLIAM D. WILSON, the Land Baron of Madison County, was the firstborn of Valentine and Eleanor (Judy) Wilson. He was born in Bath Township, Greene County, Ohio, February 27, 1807; and died of erysipelas at his homestead on the Darby Plains, on the 25th day of March, 1873. In 1820, he married Miss Nancy Moore, of Madison County, Ohio. who died at the old homestead in September, 1882. Her father was killed by the Indians in the war of 1812. By this marriage there were born to them eight children-Alexander, Ellen, James Monroe, La Fayette. William M., Sarah, Washington and Taylor. In writing of William D. Wilson, I am writing of no ordinary man. I knew him intimately and well; and in many respects I think he was the most remarkable man I ever knew.

There is no photograph or other likeness of him left, while living. There was a post mortem photograph taken, but it is a monstrosity. He stood six feet in his boots. He was straight, and with well-rounded and of comely proportions, up until late in life, when he inclined to corpulency. His hands and feet were small and short; his hair dark brown, thick and oily; his head large-No. 7 1/2; hat-well rounded, and well balanced phrenologically; his complexion clear, and slightly florid; his lower jaw strongly set; his teeth short, even, pearly white, and without signs of decay up until the time of his death. His face was full, and his cheeks full, round and solid, like Bob Ingersoll's. There was an irresistible charm in his full, round, Saxon eyethe honest inheritance from his Saxon grandmother. If one was, at first sight, when his face was severely in repose, impressed with the idea that he was somewhat gross and sensual, the varied expression of his wonderful eye, when he became animated, soon set that illusion aside. He was a good and entertaining talker, with an inclination to ask more questions than he was called on to answer. If you were not on your guard, he would cautiously and quietly pump you dry, without giving back an equivalent, unless it was in the pleasure of his company. In conversation, his voice was agreeable and pleasing; but when it was raised to a high pitch, one would be reminded of the fable of the lion and the foxes-"One, but a lion!"

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In the race of life, he commenced as his father before him had done single-handed and alone. He served his father faithfully and well until he was twenty-one years of age. He then hired, as an ordinary farm laborer, for three months "wet and dry," at $7 a month, to Judge John Arbuckle, a near neighbor. Shortly after this term of service, he married, and bought 200 acres of land, out in the Darby Plains, at 80 cents an acre. This was bought with borrowed money, his uncle Daniel going on his notes. The Darby Plains were mostly under water in those days during the wet season of the year; but they grew a rank, coarse kind of wild grass, which, if cut and properly cured. contained just enough nourishment to keep cattle from starving to death. As it had been with his father before him, when a boy at home, so it became with him now. They were not raisers or breeders of cattle. They bought them when two or three years old, and then kept them until fat enough for market. Sometimes a $7 steer, brought from the timber land in Indiana in the winter or spring, and put on the open grass land of the Darby Plains, would bring $25 or $30 in the fall of that year. These fatted cattle passed into the hands of another class of dealers, of which the Renicks, of Pickaway County, were the originators-the class of dealers who took them on a six weeks' slow journey, over the mountains, to the Baltimore or Philadelphia markets. So that his motto became like that of Emperor Constantine-"By this sign y e conquer." Money began to grow. Each year his herds grew larger, and soon he began to add new acres to his first purchase. His first cabin stood over across the road from where he died, in a cluster of apple trees that are still standing, about a year before he died, he was at my house, and I questioned him as to his mode of accumulating so much property. His answer was that it was "easy enough! easy enough! No mystery about it! Gather in and spread out! Gather in and spread out!" It probably seemed easy enough to him, for he was not a common or ordinary man. But if it was all so easy and simple, how did it happen that he absorbed nearly a half township of improved farms, whose tenantless houses, or solitary chimneys, tattered for miles across his possessions, looked like a vast and limitless harbor, with fleets lying dreamily at anchor!

The free turnpike leading from London to Plain City passes for nine miles through his farm; and within three years he paid $28,000 in taxes for free turnpikes alone. His farm, on the west, adjoined Dun Glen, the farm of John G. Dun, in Deer Creek Township, and stretched continuously to where he was buried. on his own farm, in the old Baptist Burying-Ground, on Big Darby.

He was social and convivial in his habits, fond of good company and plenty of it-upon all of which occasions he was the central figure. He did nothing by halves; it was either all work or all play. He was a natural born wit; and when in a merry mood kept everybody around him in a roar, excepting himself. He was never boisterous; never off his balance in any direction. His wit was keen, original, and generally practical-with a vein of philosophy running through it. He never indulged in any repartee that was bought second hand. He was original or nothing. He was never profane.

On one occasion, while a fiddler was tuning-up and resting his arm, Uncle Bill reminded him of the prodigal waste of time, by saying: " Mr. Tucker! Mr. Tucker! yon must remember that every time a sheep stops to bleat it loses a mouthful!"

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He was never quarrelsome or contentious. Neither he nor his father before him, I am told. were ever engaged before any court, either as plaintiff or defendant. And I never heard him speak ill of any man.

Like his father, he had great presence of mind; and like, as it was with him, it stood him in good stead on many occasions. His nearest bank, thirty years ago, was at Columbus. twenty miles away. Sometimes it required a large amount of money to carry on his business, and he was often suspected of having money upon his person or about his house. Once when traveling at night, not many miles from home, he was halted by highwaymen, and with the muzzles of some old-fashioned brass-mounted horse pistols in unpleasant proximity to his head, was ordered, peremptorily, to hold up his hands. He suspected the identity of the parties, and jocularly called them by name. The question with them then was, either cold blooded murder or joining in the laugh as if the whole thing had been intended for a joke. This they did. They wilted, and allowed him to pass on home.

It was generally his custom to not go out after night without company. One of these protectors, not infrequently, was Ira Kilbury, an infant who kicked the beam at 240 pounds. and who could " whip his weight in wild cats." Returning from Plain City after night on one occasion, his carriage was flanked by highwaymen, who began to close in on either side: but his coolness saved him then. He spoke very loudly, and in a peremptory tone-" Ira! Ira, my boy! whip up, whip up, or we won't get home be fore midnight! " Visions of the infant who could whip his weight in wild cats struck terror to the heart of the footpads, and they gave a wide berth and a fair field, when Ira, in reality, was snoring away in the quiet and security of his own cabin home, more than five miles away.

I have spoken of him as a Land Baron. In 1870, the State of Ohio contained fifty-six cultivated farms, of over 1,000 acres each. Of these fifty-six. thirty-six were in Madison County. William D. Wilson, in 1870, owned the largest improved farm in Ohio; he had 1,200 acres in one pasture, upon which you could not find a bush large enough for a riding whip. There were giant burr oaks in clusters or groves. but no brush. And in all the fifty or more miles of fencing on his farm, there was no one rod that did not look like it had been put up for corraling mules or wild deer. Hi, farm had a capacity for more than 2,000 head of cattle; but he usually had a variety of stock. Before the war, he was in the habit of " turning off" about $10,000 worth of mules of his own raising annually. Once, since the war, in a time of depression in that line, he sent down among the hills of Southeastern Ohio, and bought about 18,000 head of sheep, at about $1 a head. Times soon changed for this class of stock, and when the boom reached $7 or $8 a head, he sold out and changed over to something else.

He amassed a great fortune. Is this the story of his life? Not at all. He was a remarkable man aside from his fortune; he could as easily and would have as surely attained to great responsibilities and honors, hail his great genius been early directed in the channels that led that way. He had natural capacity enough to have been a railroad magnate. like Vanderbilt; a financier like Alexander Hamilton or Chase: or a General of an army-for he was naturally a leader, and never a follower of men.

But was this fortune accumulated without fraud, misrepresentation, treachery or the oppression of the poor? I think every dollar of it was. William D. Wilson was an honorable and an honest man.

JAMES WILSON, second born child of Valentine, and grandson of Jacob the first known ancestor. was born in Bath Township, Greene Co.. Ohio, De-

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cember 28, 1808. and came to Madison County with his father in 1816, when eight years of age; he, like his brother. William D. Wilson, remained in service with his father until he was twenty-one years old.

In 1832. when he was twenty-five years old, he went to Kentucky and bought, at $2 an acre, of a man named Morgan, 400 acres of land out on the Darby Plains, this county. and which is now a part of the Taylor Wilson estate. Of this he kept 160 acres, sold fifty acres to his brother John, and the remainder to his brother William D.

In June, 1833, he married Miss Lucy Ballou, of Milford Centre, Ohio. a daughter of Martin Ballou, a native of Providence. R. I., and grandniece to Hosea Ballou, the Boston publisher. In September, 1833. three months after marriage, his wife died of milk sickness, just as he had a cabin on his farm on the plains nearly ready to commence housekeeping. The associations connected with his tenantless cabin were unpleasant to him; and in 1835 he sold his Plains farm and bought the John Scott farm, in Somerford Township, where Uncle Sammy Prugh now lives. He boarded with the Scott family, and raised a large crop of corn, which he fed to hogs, but this class of stock ran so low that near that he lost all his summer's work.

On the 2d day of October, 1836, he married Miss Elenor Smith, born June 20. 1818, near Granville, Ohio, daughter of John and Sophia ( Bond) Smith; her father then lived two miles east of La Fayette, on the farm now owned by Jonathan Booth. At the time of his marriage. she was teaching the district school in Valentine Wilson's district. They went to housekeeping on the John Scott farm. and there John, the first child, was born. In 1837. he bought two small parcels of land, one of which was where his brother Eli died. In 1838. he sold out in Somerford Township; he had lost faith in raising hogs to make a fortune out of; he preferred risking in cattle and grass. and he went back to the Darby Plains and bought the Charley Arthur farm 400 acres-which is now a portion of the John Price farm. He moved there and lived on it for five years. Two of his children. Valentine Henry and Thomas Bond were born there. In 138, he bought fifty acres of the MacCumber farm; and in the fall of 1841 he bought 300 acres of the Russel Bidwell farm, at administrator's sale.

In the fall of 1842, he left the Darby Plains, and moved over to the Christman farm, one mile south of Somerford, and entered into a partnership with his father, as a general trader and business manager. On this farm, on March 28, 1844. his only daughter, Lucy Elenor, was born.

In 1846, his half-brother, Jackson, being old enough to take his place as a partner with his father, he moved back to the Darby Plains, and settled on the Russel Bidwell farm; but in that same year he bought the Paul Alder farm, of 310 acres-where his son John now lives-and he then moved to it. In this same year. also, he bought fifty-seven acres of Nathaniel Sawyier. In the year 1847, be bought the Paul Smith farm, 175 acres.

In the year 1854, he sold the Arthur farm to his brother, William D. and bought the Stanley Watson farm. 400 acres. adjoining the village of La Fayette, where he moved, and where he now lives. He paid $16,000 for this farm, and, it is believed that it was the first $40 farm sold in the county. In 1855, he fell heir, by the death of his father, to 381 acres adjoining the Watson farm; and in 1856 he bought the Carter farm, 400 acres, where his son-in-law, Dr. W. M. Beach. now lives. In 1860, he bought his half-brother Hamilton's share of his father's estate-463 acres-adjoining his home farm; whilst Hamilton bought his brother William D. Wilson's

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share, adjoining the village of La Fayette, on which stands the old Anderson Tavern.

For more than thirty years James Wilson has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church I am writing this on the 20th day of December, 1882, the seventy-fourth anniversary of his birthday, and it finds him a hale and vigorous old man, in full possession of all his faculties, and the owner of about 2,350 acres of well-improved land, with accompaniments, a part of which he has passed over to the control of his children. He is now the patriarch of the Wilson family, having attained a greater age it is believed, than any other one who has ever been born into the family. Knowing his modesty and retiring disposition, a eulogy upon his life and character as a citizen, and as a man, it is believed, would be distasteful to him, and I forbear.

WASHINGTON WILSON, son of Valentine, married Miss Linney West, daughter of Edmund and Margaret (Shaw) West, born near Catawba. Clark County, Ohio, November 16, 1824. Mr. Wilson has been a Deacon in the Christian Church, and a Trustee of the township of Somerford for more than twenty years. He is a large land-holder. residing one mile north of Somerford; is a good neighbor. and a citizen of so pure and stainless a character, as to be above reproach or suspicion.

ALEXANDER HAMILTON WILSON. Son of Valentine, married Isabella Parsons Koogler, of Greene County. Ohio. He is a Justice of the Peace, and influential citizen of La Fayette. Ohio.

VALENTINE C. WILSON, son of Valentine, graduated at the Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio. in the class of 1860-the first classical graduate in his father's family. He died August 23, 1861. of epidemic dysentery.

JACOB W. WILSON. son of Valentine, resides at Somerford, Ohio. He is a man of great inventive genius, his latest invention being a twine grain binder, which promises a success. Of the daughters of Valentine Wilson, I have given only the names; but they must have inherited something of the sagacity and psychological characteristics of their father. They all married poor boys. But the names of such men as Robert Boyd, Hiram W. Richmond and Thomas John Stutson, who all married into the family, offer a sufficient evidence of the soundness of their judgment.

VALENTINE WILSON, deceased, son of Jacob Wilson. a native of Virginia. was born in Pennsylvania in 1786, and died in Madison County, July 2, 1855. He emigrated to Ohio with his parents in 1802, and settled on the bead-waters of Beaver Creek, Bath Township, Greene County, where he remained until 1816, when he removed to Madison County, and settled on the head-waters of Deer Creek, where he bought 160 acres of land. He added to that until he had at the time of his death. which occurred July 2, 1855, nearly 10,000 acres of land, and 1,000 head of cattle and sheep. He died the wealthiest man who had ever been a citizen of the county. He was married three times and was the father of nineteen children. He married for his first wife Elenor Judy, in 1806, and she lived until 1819, at which time she passed away from earth; the next wife that blessed his home was Susan Umble, who died August 18, 1825; for his third wife he married Nancy Roberts, June 18, 1827, with whom he lived until his death. She resides in Somerford, and has at this time about 2.500 acres of land which are under a high state of cultivation. She is a member of the Christian Church.

WASHINGTON WILSON, farmer, P. O. Somerford, was born in Madison County, Ohio. September 7, 1821, and was a son of Valentine and

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Susan (Umble) Wilson; Valentine was born in Pennsylvania in 1786, and Susan in Ohio in 1799. They were married in Madison County in 1818. He was married three times, Susan being his second wife. She died August 18, 1825, and he died July 2, 1855. Our subject, when twenty-one years old, began working by the month, and thus continued for three months, as he wanted to get money enough to get married; at the expiration of that time he had $27. He was then united in marriage with Linnie West, November 17, 1842. She was born in Clark County November 16, 1824. After their marriage he began farming as a renter, and continued for four years, when he bought sixty acres of land, to which he has since added until he now owns 800 acres. He is a member of the I O. O. F. order, and served as Township Trustee of Somerford Township for fourteen years. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are the parents of eight children, of whom six survive--Jackson, Alexander, Valentine. Belle, Griffin and Charles. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are members of the Christian Church.

JOHN F. WILLIAMSON, deceased. The subject of this sketch was the son of James Williamson, was born in Madison County, Ohio, in 1834 and was united in marriage in October, 1856, to Frances Wilson. a daughter of Valentine Wilson, whose sketch appears in this work. She was born October 26, 1840. After their marriage he engaged in farming, and trading in stock, principally horses; a business he followed until his death, which occurred January 11, 1862. He and his wife were the parents of one child, viz.: Winfield Scott, born July 21, 1857; he is engaged in trading in stock and farming, and was united in marriage, October 14. 18,78, to Amanda Odell, by whom he has one child, Lillie May, born May 21, 1881.

T. L. WOOSLEY, farmer, P. O. London. was born in Madison County, Ohio, November 17, 1852. and is a son of David and Nancy (Moss) Woosley, natives of Clark County, Ohio. the former born January 12. 1812, and the latter in 1822. They were married in Clark County in 1851. Our subject engaged in farming when twenty-one years of age as a renter, and thus continued for six years, when he bought 160 acres of land where he now resides. He was united in marriage with Emma M. Prugh, February 17, 1880. She was born in Madison County, May 1. 1852, and is a daughter of Samuel Prugh, whose sketch appears in this work. Mr. Woosley acquired a common school education, and is a member of the Methodist Church.

AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF DAVID WATSON.

RE-ARRANGED BY REV. C. A. VAN ANDA.

My parents. Walter and Rachel Watson, were born in the State of Maryland, about the year 1750. My mother was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church from my earliest recollection. Such was the gentleness of her character, the strength of her religious convictions and the consistency of her life, that she exercised the most happy influence over my father. He was a man of remarkable physical strength, but from the evil associations and customs of the times, he unfortunately, in early life, fell into the ruinous habits of drinking and fighting.

I was born in Calvert County, Md., near the coast of the Chesapeake Bay, in the year 1783. I possessed a very lively temperament and an extraordinary degree of muscular activity. It was perhaps owing to these things that in my fourteenth year, I was induced to leave my father's home. The circumstances of my departure were as follows: In 1797, old Capt.

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Brandon. from Massachusetts, visited our country in order to trade in groceries. He seemed to take quite a fancy to me, and on one occasion asked my father if he might take me home with him. " When will you bring him back? " my father asked, and added that he had no objection, if mother was willing. The wily Captain went at once to ask the same question of mother. taking care to say nothing about the conversation he had just had with father. Mother replied, " I am willing, if his father has no objection." I was exceedingly anxious to go. and had but little difficulty in overcoming all objections, save those urged by my brother. I finally offered him all my toys if he would consent, and succeeded in getting away. We embarked on the Patuxent River. and in two days reached Norfolk, Va., our first port. At that time I felt as if I would have given the world, had I owned it, to have been at home. I there for the first time began to experience that disease so well known and yet so difficult to describe, namely. homesickness.

Shortly before leaving Norfolk, a very interesting incident occurred. A negro, preferring freedom to slavery. had by some means secreted himself in the hold of our vessel, and remained some two days or more without anything to eat. I was sent below for some purpose. and while creeping, over boxes and barrels I caught sight of his teeth and eyes. I afterward fed him until we reached Beverly, Mass., where the poor fellow was free.

The Captain took me to his home and introduced me to his wife, who asked my name. and seemed much pleased to see me. In a short time the Captain started on a voyage to England, leaving me at home to attend school. I however attended school but little, having too many errands to run. During the summer an incident transpired at Beverly, Mass., of deep and painful interest. I had formed a very pleasant acquaintance with young man who owned a distillery in the town. Going down street one day, I saw a great many people running toward the distillery. I joined the crowd, and upon reaching the building was shocked to hear that my friend had committed suicide. He had fastened an iron kettle to his body, opened the hatchway and cast himself into the large rum cistern. He so arranged matters that all the hands were away at the time. So soon as he was missing, search was made in Beverly, and Salem, an adjoining town. At length some one thought of examining the cistern, and taking a boat hook, he caught his clothing and drew him up. Physicians were called immediately. but all without avail, as he had been in the cistern about four hours. There were evidences that the love of life had returned before consciousness was lost, as attempts had been made to loose the kettle.

The Captain, having returned, wintered at home, determined in the spring to go on a fishing excursion.

Everything was in readiness by the 18th of March. but we were compelled to wait for the " line gale" to subside. While lying there, a large buy among my comrades, proposed that we should drink something. The proposition was universally agreed to. "David," said he. " what have you aboard?" '`Everything," I responded. "Rum?" "Yes." "Eggs?" " Yes." I knew nothing about making "eggnog," but he knew it all. I furnished the ingredients, and the coveted beverage was soon ready, and ali partook freely. The article was decided to be so superior that we ought by all means to have some more. Accordingly, the second dish was prepared. and all indulged the second time. I soon began to feel uncomfortable, and went to my hammock. I was doubtless somewhat restless, for some time afterward my friend, who had brought all our trouble upon us, came and asked: "David, are you dying?" I said yes." I knew nothing more un-

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til morning. The boys all found their ships, and I returned to the Captain's for breakfast. When my mistress called. I answered: " I thank you, I don't want anything." The Captain inquired what we had been doing, and I frankly cold him all. He simply said : "David. never do so again." I replied, " No, sir." And I never did.

On the 23d of March we weighed anchor, and started for the banks of Newfoundland. Reaching our destination, we fished for a short time with some success, and then sailed for a better position. Running for a school of fish, the Captain discovered that ice was not far to the windward, but apprehending no immediate danger, all laid down to rest except one man, who was stationed so as to keep a sharp lookout for the ice. Instead of obeying orders. however, he soon went to sleep. While we were all wrapped in slumber, the ice was rapidly nearing our vessel. The Captain was the first to discover our danger. Awaking from his nap, he found the vessel already partially on an iceberg. and a whole island of ice was bearing down upon us. All hands ran to the windlass, but our united strength could no more move the ship than if she had been a mountain. Every fathom of cable was out. and our destruction seemed certain. The Captain calling for an ax, cut the cable, when it flew swift as lightning. At length, hoisting all sail and using crotches, we backed her out stern foremost. We then returned home, washed out our fish, and as soon as possible prepared for a second voyage-going this time to British America, and stopping at a point called Donahoe's Cave.

The origin of this name is declared by tradition to be as follows : Donahoe was a brave seaman, but so fond of sport as to be sometimes cruel in securing it. On one occasion, while stopping at the cave, in order to tease the Indians, he spread tar over the deck of his ship, invited the red men aboard. After having sprinkled scupper-nails everywhere, and then ran after them with the ropes-end, and amused himself by watching their awkward and painful attempts at running. The Indians were terribly enraged, and tried all their ingenuity to entice him ashore. At length they succeeded, and then revenged themselves and showed their savage nature by cutting his heart into pieces as small as possible, and eating it, in order, as they said to become as brave as the Captain was. From this occurrence the point was called Donahoe's Cave.

Returning from our fishing excursion, the Captain, after a time, took a position as first mate on an East Indiaman. By reason, however, of some disagreement between him and the Captain, as to wages. he concluded not to go, but gave me my choice, to go as cabin boy, or stay with him. I chose to go. My new Captain was a man of very violent temper, as I soon found to my great sorrow, Capt. Brandon had given me a beautiful comb, such as sailors wore at that time to keep their hair, which was worn very long, from falling over their faces. Going down one morning to get buscuit to make toast for breakfast, I chanced to look into an empty hogshead and saw that a rat had fallen into it. I ran for the cat, and put her in to catch it, but she was afraid and kept as far away as possible. I then reached down and caught it by the tail, when it turned and bit my finger. Upon coming up. the Captain asked me how I had hurt myself. When I told what had happened, he swore a terrible oath, and striking me on the head, he broke my beautiful comb. Then my troubles began. When we were but a few days out. we were attacked by a whale. He was a huge fellow, though but about two-thirds grown. He would lash the stern of the ship with such violence that every timber would quake. The

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attack began on Saturday evening and continued until late Sunday morning. We had two swivels on board, but could not bring them to bear on him, as he kept so near the ship. Many musket balls were fired into him and he was severely wounded with pikes. So freely did the blood flow that the sea was purple in our wake. At length our enemy was so weakened by loss of blood that he could no longer hold out, and so dropped astern.

The time passed without any incident worthy of especial notice until I experienced the process of being shaved by Neptune. The Captain had talked a great deal to the boys about an old man who lived on the " line," as he said, whose habit it was to shave all who crossed it for the first time. So much was said about the matter, and with such apparent sincerity, that at length some of the younger boys began to believe that all was real. Before my doubts were entirely removed. I would ask how the old man lived on the " line?" How he got his food ? and so on. The replies, however, seemed so plausible, that my doubts were pretty much removed. On a certain morning, we found the sun directly over our heads. Never was there a more lovely morning. The Captain directed me to go below and ask the boys to come up and scrub the deck. All were glad to do so, and started very merrily for the deck, which they had no sooner reached, than the companion leaf fell. Instantly all seemed to be impressed with the idea that all this was somehow connected with the shaving process so much talked about. Meantime, preparations had been made above for the sport. When all was ready, the Captain went on deck with a speaking-trumpet, when an imaginary person-real enough to us-hailed him, and inquired for the boys who were for the first time crossing the line. At first the Captain denied having any, but Neptune insisted, and at length mentioned the cabin boy. Presently Neptune came aboard and addressed the Captain very cordiaily. They shook hands and seemed very happy to meet each other. I was called upon to bring the stranger a glass of grog. Upon looking out, there he was, sure enough. His mouth was wide open. his face smeared with tar, and his old coat stuffed with oakum, producing a great hump on his back. I started back with fear, when he stooped just in time to secure the glass. Some were sent down who blindfolded me and brought. me up on deck. Neptune approached me in a very friendly way, shaking my hand, calling me a fine little fellow, etc., etc. No one, he said, could become a good sailor unless he was first shaved. He then told me I must answer all his questions, or else he would take me away in his little boat and I should never see the ship again. I was then sworn, and made to answer many foolish questions. Lather. composed of all kinds of filth, was brought and applied to my face with a paint brush. An old piece of iron, filed so as to resemble, somewhat, a saw, was used as a razor. It was so dull and was used with so much violence, as actually to cut my face in several places. I would beg not to be killed: Neptune would talk soothingly, and thus this part of the programme was finished. I was then placed upon a board which lay across the top of a large cask filled with salt water. A trumpet was placed to my mouth, and I was told to say three times, as loud as I could, '` God bless the United States of America." "Louder." shouted Neptune. I was preparing to do my very best, when suddenly the old sea god poured a bucket of salt water into the mouth of the trumpet, which came near strangling me: at the same instant, the board on which I stood was turned. and I fell into the salt water, feeling sure that I was overboard and all was lost forever. In a moment, I was drawn out of the cask, the

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bandage was taken from my eyes, and I saw Neptune and knew him. My anger knew no bounds. I cursed and swore, " Hush! Hush!" said he, there are the other boys. My desire to see them shaved cooled my wrath, and I joined heartily in the sport.

After this experience, our time past monotonously for many days. At length, the following sad incident occurred: A sailor went up to the foretop to shake out the reefs. A kink in the rope caused him to lose his balance, when he pitched out of the foretops, and falling across the gunwale broke his thigh. The Captain set the broken limb, and arranging a chickencoop, so that it might swing back and forth like a hammock, placed the poor fellow upon it. where he remained for sixty days. When he did get up, he was entirely well, scarcely limping at all. Sad to relate, a few days afterward, by a mistep, the unfortunate man broke his thigh again.

It was our custom to kill a pig once a week This we generally did on Saturday evenings. It was my business to prepare the head and feet for t e Captain and officers. Our butter was becoming low, and fearing none could be had at our destination, the Captain gave orders that I should use no more of it in preparing the head and feet. When dinner was ready, on the day the above orders were given, I saw the butter was lower than at breakfast, and that the Captain was angry about it. Addressing me, he said, " I thought I told you not to use any more butter in this way." I replied, " I did not use any." " I will settle with you after dinner," he said. When the officers had gone on deck, he rang a little bell for me. I went into the cabin, when he addressed me as thus: " Do you still say you did not use the butter?" "I did not use it, Captain," I replied. With a terrible oath, he declared he would make me own it. " Go into the stateroom," he thundered, " and bring me that cat." Returning with it, he bade me remove my roundabout, and then grasping my left wrist, he whipped me until he was tired out, and then stopping to rest, he repeated the question. I responded " no," as before. He then laid on again; stopping to take breath, the question was repeated, and the same answer given. He then declared he would make me own it. or whip me to death. Again the cruel cat was applied; I could noc shed a tear, though my sufferings were excruciating. When I went down to the cabin, I resolved that should the Captain shoot me, I would die rather than tell a lie. But now my resolution began to waver. To be whipped to death seemed so terrible. It was more than I could endure, and feeling that I could last but a few moments more. I said I had taken the butter. I went on deck, and sitting down, began to think of how tenderly I had been raised; of what a good home I had left: of how far I was from it, and of the awful fact that I was helpless in the hands of this inhuman wretch. For a moment. I seriously debated whether it would not be better to take my life then and there. and so put an end to my misery. But better thoughts prevailed. For many weeks. I could not lie upon my back, and to this day I bear the marks of that terrible flogging.

I have often since thought that the awful question of taking my own life was decided in the negative, in part, at least, through the following incident: The day was one of great beauty, and we were sailing at the rate of four or five knots per hour. The Captain said to the mate. "How are the hammocks holding out" : " The mate replied, "Many of them are almost worn out." Directions were accordingly given, that new ones be made from sails not in use. Not long after, the Captain and mate were sitting not far from me. when in reply to the declaration of the mate, that all were sup-

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plied with hammocks but David. the Captain said. with an oath, " He don't need any, the spars are good enough for him." I had not up to this moment shed a tear. but this cruel remark opened the fountain, and I wept profusely. For a moment I gave way to anger. and it seemed to afford some relief. Looking at him in profane language. I declared that upon reaching home. I would waylay him and take his life. I at once ave up all thoughts of taking my own life, arose and went about my work."

All our pigs had been killed but one; he was to be kept until we came in sight of land. Our grain had given out, and it became my business to provide him something to eat. This I did by catching " boobies," a sea bird about the size of a goose. These silly birds would alight upon the yard-arm. and remain perfectly quiet until I caught them. With these I so long supplied the pig that he came to know their peculiar noise, and would squeal his satisfaction when he heard them. I threw them alive into his pen. and he caught and devoured them without ceremony. When in sight of land. piggy was killed. but judge of our disappoinment to find him so fishy that he could not be eaten. Being utterly useless. we threw the whole overboard.

It was evening when we came in sight of land. We were met by a boat load of natives who had fish to sell. Having purchased some of these, we cleaned them and hung them up to dry; but such was the effect of the climate upon them as to spoil the whole. There being no wharves, we ran into Man Eater's Island." and anchored some distance from the shore. The natives were a great curiosity to me. I was especially interested in the manner in which they confine a certain class of criminals. A vessel called the Galliot is anchored some distance from the shore. Once incarcerated there, they were perfectly secure.since the alligators were so numerous as to make it impossible for any one to swim ashore. Our Captain went to the Harbor Master and hired ten of these prisoners to load our cargo. Their manner of eating was very curious to me. Their food was rice, an article of red color, and altogether superior to any I have ever seen in this country. This was prepared by boiling. Each man was provided with a "now-gen" and ten sticks about four or five inches long, flattened somewhat at one end; taking the sticks in one hand and holding the noggen in the other, they would eat with great rapidity. When they wished a piece of meat, they used the thumb nail instead of a knife, that article being allowed to grow to a great length.

We found several American ships in the harbor. and enjoyed ourselves very much in meeting with our countrymen, none of whom we had seen for nine months. It was decided to have a large party while we lay there, which was to be held aboard our ship. I, of course, was head cook. I did my very best, and many were the compliments I received for my excellent dinner. One Captain said it was the best dinner he ever ate on the water. Having only money, we had nothing to do but to purchase our cargo. This consisted of pepper, coffee, cloves and camphor. The money expended for this cargo amounted to about fifty thousand Spanish dollars.

After lying at Batavia about fifteen days, we made ready to start on our return voyage. The port was regarded as a very sickly one. The Captain had said that quite possibly one-fourth would be left, but not a single case of sickness occurred. We had taken in rain water enough to fill our hogsheads as the water of the port was regarded as very unhealthy. Having been for a long time without fresh meat. we determined to secure some at the first opportunity. Accordingly, coming in sight of the Island of Sen-

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ter, we cast anchor, and sent four men ashore to catch turtles. These were found in incredible numbers. The men were instructed to turn them upon their backs, for in that condition they are helpless. In the morning we went ashore and fastening ropes around their flippers," drew them into the water and on board the ship. In this way we secured nine very large ones. It was supposed that some would weigh at least fifteen hundred pounds. They laid us many eggs. I think I counted eleven hundred from one. Their eggs are most excellent, as well as their flesh; so that we had fresh meat for many days. Some persons may not know that these animals can use their flippers for both fins and feet, but so it is. Upon the land their flippers are turned backward and upward, and the first joint coming to the ground is used as a foot. Their gait is awkward and slow.

Thus the time passed pleasantly, though monotonously as we sailed homeward. All were in excellent health and happy at the thought of soon reaching home. But an event occurred which illustrated the uncertainty of this world's affairs, and our liability to disappointment in this life. When not more than two weeks from home, we were taken prisoners by a French privateersman, a sloop of war named Bazier. The time about which I am now speaking was during the Presidency of John Adams. The French claimed certain moneys from the United States for funds lent us during the Revolutionary war. Our Government not admitting the claim, they took such of our ships as they found unable to defend themselves. For several days the Captain had thought we were in the latitude where the French might he expected. One beautiful afternoon, as we were driving rapidly before the wind. a French sloop 'was discovered under our lee bow, and we were driving right down upon her. The first intimation we had of immediate danger was the cry of the man on the foretop: "A sail ho!" "Where away?" cried the Captain. "Under the lee bow," was the reply. The Captain took his glass and hurrying to the main top, decided the vessel to he a French sloop of war.

The first mate drew his glass, and decided she was not. The Captain came down and ordered the ship drawn on the wind. The privateersman was at this point about three leagues away; all her sails being furled, she seemed quite small to us; but when we changed our course, her sails were unfurled in a moment, and she gave chase.

She was a very fast runner, and gained upon us so rapidly that at dawn next morning she was plainly visible from our mast-head, right in our wake. At 10 o'clock she was along side, and hailed us, " Ho! where from?" " Batavia. " " Where bound?" "Beverly." " What is your cargo?" " Pepper and coffee." "Bon prize," said the Frenchman. The officers came aboard, overhauled our papers. then drank and caroused until near 1 o'clock in the afternoon. Then the French Captain called out excitedly, " Embark! Embark! on board Bazier to sweet America." We were taken to Cayenne. Our cargo was, of course confiscated, and we were taken to jail. Our treatment was not severe. Sometimes we were taken to the sail lofts to work on sails. So matters continued for about ten months. At the expiration of that time, a Capt. Adams, of Baltimore, hearing that there were some American prisoners at the jail, came to the gate, one morning, and inquired if there was not a little American boy there. He called me to the gate, and inquired if I did not want to get out of there. Of course I replied yes. He took me aboard his ship, and we sailed for Lisbon.

There was not the most friendly feeling, at that time. between Portugal and the United States, although our ships were allowed to enter any

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port in time of distress. Our Captain was not troubled with conscientious scruples, and, knowing his cargo was valuable in Lisbon, he determined to put in there under pretense of distress. 'The mainmast was somewhat injured, and he arranged to have it carried quite away, by putting on sail. The vessel was forced on her beam ends; every moment the pilot feared a shot from the fort. At length a carpenter was bribed to come on board and condemn the ship. This cost the Captain one hundred guineas. We took great pleasure in viewing the city of Lisbon. Everywhere were plainly visible the effects of the terrible earthquake, which had destroyed millions of property and thousands of lives. The wharves being destroyed, we rowed ashore in a boat. Not a house remained on the old site of the city. It seemed, from appearances, as if the earth, like a thin crust, had broken through wherever there was any considerable weight upon it-other portions being left undisturbed The poverty, wretchedness and superstition of the inhabitants was extreme. Many women flocked around us, having the cross in a box, covered with glass; with this they passed from one to another, asking. " You no care for St. Antoine?" By this means, they expected from each of us a sou. Here I witnessed that cruel sport, a bull bait." The day was the Sabbath. I found the seats were sold, as at our theaters. These were circular in form. inclosing a large area. Upon these were seated many thousands of people. Horsemen and footmen were within. for the purpose of worrying and killing the animals. While we were looking on, one man was killed, but the sad event produced no more feeling than if the victim had been a horse instead of a man. Our attention was especially attracted by twelve men whose business it was to keep the animals away from the seats occupied by the King and Queen.

Having disposed of our cargo, we sailed for Hamburg. On the voyage, we came near being cast away between two islands. There had been an easterly swell and a westerly gale; these uniting, the current, into which we were drawn, set with great force toward the land. We were just at dinner. our danger, for a few moments, was indeed very great. but by great exertions we were saved. At Hamburg, I had the pleasure of seeing the King and Queen of Denmark. The King was in a rowboat with a hundred men; the Queen was seated in a sail-boat. The excitement was intense, thousands upon thousands having gathered to witness the imposing scene. Having laid in a cargo of cheese, we sailed fbr London. Arriving in sight of this great city. many things attracted our attention. One sight. I remember, was harrowing in the extreme. At almost every bend of the river, we beheld a gibbet. In these were hanging criminals, whose bodies were in various stages of decomposition. In all cases they were to hang until the flesh dropped off their bones. Going into the harbor, the Captain ordered a man to run up the colors. "Which?" was asked. "Danish," was the Captain's reply Now it happened on that very day, an embargo had been laid on all vessels belonging to the Danes, Swedes, Prussians and Russians. Of course we had made a serious mistake. Had we run up the American colors, all would have been well.

The abuse I there suffered is inexpressible. The press gang, often visited the ship, and tried every means to get me. Sometimes they would threaten, then again they would coax. and then try to buy me off.

On one occasion. one of these wretches stole from me a new pair of shoes. I met one of them on shore the next day. and charged him with the theft. He was so indignant that his rage knew no bounds. He swore without stint. I, also was angry, and nothing restrained me but the fact that

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I was on foreign soil. My sufferings so deeply impressed me that my feelings of indignation are still aroused at every recollection, though the occurrences were more than seventy years ago.

Our next voyage was from Plymouth to Bordeaux, France. I recall many things that there impressed me deeply. Among others a garden of great beauty near the city. It was said a gentlemen of great wealth had left an immense fortune to his son, who having a strong taste for gardening, had laid out vast sums of money in making this spot the scene of the won der and beauty it was. It was surrounded by a beautiful fence, and also by a hedge. The walks, which were wide enough for two to walk abreast. were also bounded by hedges. These were so accurately trimmed, that the slightest variation from a straight edge could be observed. Every variety of flowers and shrubs grew here. In the center was a curiosity in the form of a labyrinth. This consisted of many walks with so many windings that we were soon lost. After repeated trials we gave up the effort, seeing we invariably came back to the point of departure. At length, some one more experienced than we, piloted us out. From Bordeaux. we sailed to Barston. Point-Peter and Jacknell. At the latter place occurred an incident, illustrating English feeling against the United States, on the ground of our peaceful attitude toward France, with which England was then at war. A British man-of-war, had been kept cruising around the harbor, and a few days before our arrival an American brig from Baltimore was boarded, the brains of the watch were knocked out and the vessel taken to England. simply because she had a French cargo. The cargo, was condemned and the hull liberated. For this reason the authorities sent eighteen marines on board to protect us.

Just upon the eve of our departure from this port. a circumstance occurred worthy of note. We were in a great hurry to weigh anchor, having been so long from home. It became dark just as the last barrel was to be put aboard. The man whose duty it was to fasten the can-hook to the chimes of the barrel did his work so' imperfectly that it held just long enough to be brought over the comb of the hatch, when the hook slipped, letting the barrel fall so hard, as to break one head; the man below sprang forward and raised the barrel in time to save about one-third of the contents, which I have omitted to state, was wine. The crew regarded the accident as a rare good fortune, and determined to drink what was saved. We invited every American in the port. I need not say we drank largely. Before leaving, I met with the Governor of the island, who was a black man. When we met, he politely lifted his hat, and I, of course, returned the salutation. He was regarded as an excellent officer.

At length, we set sail for New York. A run of fourteen days brought us to the city. We anchored in the sound, and there lay at quarantine for many days. True, we had been examined, and pronounced healthy, yet so terribly was the yellow fever prevailing that the authorities feared to allow us to land. Imagine our feelings-we had been six years from home, had endured incredible hardships-now we were in sight of our dear native land, and vet dared not go ashore. But as all things have an end, so had our imprisonment, and we were once more free.

Having been paid off, I bade my shipmates and Capt. Adams farewell. Preferring coin to the paper money I had received. I started for the bank to make the exchange. On the way, I stopped at a silversmith's, and bought a watch. Having arranged my money matters. I started for home by way of Philadelphia, by coach. Chad never learned the use of money. and

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never having had so large an amount in my possession. I spent it freely. feeling rich and living high. Reaching the city. I put up at a private room and lived in considerable style. frequenting the barber's. having my hair powdered, wearing a ruffled shirt; and seeking amusements in various ways. Meantime. I just escaped shipping again for a three years' voyage on an East Indiaman. Going aboard. I met the last man just coming from the cabin. having signed his shipping papers. I told the Captain my desire: he said, " Had you been an hour earlier. I could have taken you, but now we are full." The next day a packet arrived, boned for Alexandria, Va. In four or five days, we reached our destination. Approaching the wharf, I narrowly scanned the people on shore. and they seemed to be returning the compliment. Among that crowd on the shore was my brother, who at the time was engaged in driving a team from Frederick County. Va.. to Alexandria: neither of us recognized the other.

Being so near the capital. I determined to visit it. and also Georgetown. having often heard my father speak of these cities. I hired a boatman to take me up. but had only gone a short distance when I found I had forgotten my trunk. However. an additional 50 cent piece induced him to return for the missing article. Having looked about Washington as long as I desired. I made inquiry at the post office for the direction home. The reply was, that I had better take the stage for a place. the name of which I have forgotten. At that point I tried to hire a horse. but no one would trust me. Seeing I could do no better. I started home on foot. I took it very leisurely, greatly enjoying the scenery. My design was to reach home a little after dark, in order to surprise my parents. I aimed to go to Lower Marlboro, there being also a town called L peer Marlboro. It happened I was directed to the upper town, and by that means went five miles out of my way. An old negro directed me to Nottingham Crossing the fields, I saw a negro coming toward me on a pony. Accosting him. I said, "Old man, what will you take to carry me to Nottingham Can't do it, massa." "Why ?" "Hoss too small." " I'm small. too." " You can't ride." " I will." "If you must, give me a dollar." Handing him the money. I jumped on behind, and rode into Nottingham.

The ferry-boat was just pushing off as I reached the river. My father -as I supposed-was living on the other side. I cried out to the ferryman to stop. The people, hearing me, were alarmed. and ran to their doors to see what was the matter. One man asked, "Axe yon a mechanic?" I answered " No." Then, seeing the boat was gone, I inquired if he knew Mr. Watson. " Very well," he replied, " Walter Watson moved up the country one hundred miles. He was down two weeks ago, with a drove of horses. Who are you ?" I told him my name, and be asked if I had not an uncle in that place. I replied I had, but I did not know where he was now. He said, "Come along with me, and I will show you his house." Reaching the dwelling, I entered without ceremony. My aunt not recognizing me, was much surprised to see me walk across the room and deliberately hang up my hat. I then made myself known. My dear aunt was overjoyed, and the servants who had known me rushed into the room and manifested their joy, in true negro style. The evening was spent in giving an account of my adventures by sea and land. The next morning, I crossed the river in the ferry-boat, in order to visit another uncle. While crossing, I gave the boatman some account of my voyages. Reaching the shore, I saw a man with two horses, whom I knew to be a friend of my father's. I spoke to him, calling him by name. He seemed scarcely to notice me, and spoke

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slightingly; not knowing me. I did not stop to explain, being stung by his coldness. He inquired of the boatman my name. Having learned who I was, he went to my aunt's and got the whole history of my voyages, and being then on his way to my father's, he was the first to tell them of my return. Going to my uncle's, I found him and his two sons at work in the fields. Having told him my name, he called the boys, who came running to greet me, and, gathering me up in their arms, carried me, pack and all. into the house. My aunt, upon seeing me, gave thanks to God: " See," said she to her husband, the goodness of God in preserving this child." All were melted into tears. Several days were spent with these dear friends. Nothing could exceed their kindness. The boys furnished me with the best horse and saddle the place afforded, while I, in turn, furnished them a great deal of amusement by my awkward attempts to keep my place in the saddle. Sometimes, they would suddenly start on a rapid trot, while I could scarcely hold on, even at a slow walk.

In a few days, my father sent a cousin for me, with a horse. Returning to the point where I left my trunk, I found no one wanted to buy it, and, as I would not give it away, it was a serious question how to manage it I proposed to my cousin that a circingle which he had brought with him, be put through the handles of the trunk and that it be strapped to my back. Thus mounted, I had not gone two rods before down came trunk, rider and all. Being determined to succeed, I remounted, and, by bracing myself in the stirrups with all the skill I could command, we reached Alexandria, where the trunk was left for my brother to carry home at his next trip. We then started directly for my father's, Frederick County, Va.

On the way, we met with my brother, in company with Jonathan Minshall, who afterward became my brother-in-law, on their way to Alexandria with their teams. Near by the place of our meeting was a little public house. We were so ignorant as to know no better way to express our joy than to turn aside there, and eat and drink all the proprietor had.

It was late in the evening when we reached home, where we found the whole family had gathered, expecting us. At the bark of the dog, all ran to the door. Imagine the joy all felt at the return of the long-lost son.

For several days but little was done, besides listening to my tales of wonder. Young people came from a great distance to see the sailor boy and hear him talk.

In the fall of 1803, a protracted meeting was held at Newtown, by the Rev. James Quinn and the Rev. Mr. Mathews. The meeting became one of great interest and power, so much so that many people attended from distant towns and counties. Two of my sisters were converted dur ing the early part of the meeting, and also two of my younger brothers. An older brother and myself would accompany the rest to the church and then going to the tavern, would spend our time there until the service closed. My eldest sister threatened to inform father of this fact. This, we felt, would never do, so we consented to go into the church with there, having agreed among ourselves to slip out and return before the meeting closed. When our two younger brothers were converted, we were greatly enraged. As for the girls, we said, they were older and could do as they pleased; but the boys, we believed. were frightened into their religion. One day we determined that, should such excitement occur that night as we had before witnessed, we would enter the house and bring our brothers out. Accordingly. we took our stations at the door. Soon the interest became intense; the people became very happy, and many of them gave expressions to their

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feelings of joy, in songs and exclamations of praise to God. With an oath, we started forward. I had agreed to take one and my brother the other. We kept close together until we came near to where they were standing. The boys were some distance apart. I remember reaching for my little brother, and asking, "What are you doing here?" He looked at me and I saw the tears of joy rolling down his face as he said, "David, my soul is happy." I remember no more nothing as to where I was or the flight of time-until I was clapping my hands and shouting, "Glory to God." My brother also failed to do as he intended, but he succeeded in reaching the door. I here record the fact that Jonathan Minshall was converted at the same meeting.

During the time intervening between this and the following New Year's, my brother tried every means to discourage us. being determined to get us back into the world. Some time after this meeting there was a camp-meeting held at a place called the "White House." a distance about twenty miles from us. We attended that meeting. My brother James was greatly opposed to our going, and determined to secure a load for Alexandria, so that the team should be engaged. At length father interposed his authority. James could do nothing more than nurse his anger, which he continued to do. The meeting was an excellent one. Upon our return, James tried to disturb me by ridicule, using such language as " How much grace did you get? I suppose all the tears shed there could be put into a small bottle," etc , etc. He continued his opposition until New Year's Day, 1805. At that time, Rev. Mr. Phelps held a watch-night meeting at his house. James attended. Rev. William Hughes, a step-son of Father Phelps, preached. During the preaching, I saw James trembling. At first I supposed it to be ague, but soon I saw him praising God; the lion had become a lamb, and the bitter scoffer had become a professor of religion. This was Saturday evening, On Sabbath morning there was a love-feast at Newtown. James attended, much to the surprise of the people, very few knowing of the change he had experienced. After a few had spoken, he arose to give his testimony. Every word seemed to come from the depths of his heart; a Divine power seemed to fall upon all present; all wished to hear his experience, and yet they could scarcely restrain their joy.

In the spring of 1805, my father purchased a lease of a Mr. Helphenstine, which I went to see, expecting that brother James and I would farm it. After looking around the farm, I went to the house, and there saw the girl whom I afterward married. Her mother was dead, and she, only ten years of age, was acting as housekeeper. She politely offered me a chair; we had some general conversation, during which I resolved that if I could succeed I would make her my wife when the proper time had come.

About this time my attention was turned to the West, especially to Ohio. I knew there was better land there than that we were farming. One day I said to father, let us go to Ohio. You have always been a renter here, and have paid rent enough to buy a farm there. We are all working hard and accomplishing but little. At first b e tried to persuade me not to think of it, but seeing how anxious I was, he consented to my going, saying if I was pleased with the country he would go, too. Mr. Helphenstine was going West, which I frankly confess increased the attraction. He had four horses and I had one, which just made a team. Accordingly we united, and without any special incident, reached Chillicothe, Ohio, in October, 1805, where we remained until January.

We found a Col. Langam, who was going up into the " barrens" to

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lay " warrants" and divide lands. Mr. Helphenstine and myself accompanied the Colonel as assistants. We remained with him until the 14th day of February. On the morning we were about finishing the survey of the 1,700 acres on which I now live, the Colonel said there was a mistake of 100 acres in the survey. We did not wish to run it over again. and Mr. Helphenstine proposed that I should buy it, and thus the survey could stand as it was. I replied, "I have nothing to buy it with." "Yes," the Colonel said, " there is your horse, how much is he worth? " I replied, one hundred dollars." The Colonel took him at that price. I then gave my watch for $20, which left me in debt $60. I afterward worked out $20 more. The Colonel had some prairie land in the neighborhood, which he wished broken up. which I agreed to do for $10, on the condition that I should have as much more land as I needed for $2 per acre. We carried the chain on our return to Chillicothe, and having measured fifteen miles from the point of our departure, we came to the cabin of a Mr. Oxford, where we spent the night. In the morning I asked what he would take for that lease. and give possession the following October. He agreed to take the making of 2,000 rails, which offer I accepted. The next day we reached Chillicothe.

In March. we built a cabin about three miles from the city. There I spent the summer and raised a crop of corn, getting one-third of it for my labor. I worked out what I could, for the purpose of getting money enough to return to Virginia. I started back the last day of September, 1806. I found all my friends in good health. and fully prepared to accompany me to Ohio. There were thirty-nine of my connection in the company; of this number, I am the only survivor, April. 1870. There were six or seven wagons, my own taking the lead. We reached Chillicothe. about the last of October. Father moved at once to the place I had rented for him, and Jonathan Minshall and family accompanied him. A few days after our arrival, Jonathan purchased 100 acres of land lying alongside of mine. Some time about the last of December, he and I built a log cabin for him. This was the first house built in this part of the country. Weccmpleted it about the 12th of January-, 1807. We returned to Chillicothe, and after a few days, probably about the seventeenth of the month, he moved into his new house, and I came with him. No more moved into our part of the country until the following March.

The preacher on the Chillicothe Circuit, had established a society at my father's house. making that the limit of his work on the north. Brother Minshall, his wife, and I, felt our spiritual destitution sadly, coming away from the privileges which we enjoyed in Virginia. I proposed to visit father and consult with him about the matter. When I laid the matter before my father. he said, it could hardly be expected that the preacher would extend his work to embrace us. since it would be compelling him to ride thirty miles to preach to us three. Rev. Mr. Lakin was told of the want w" had expressed, and left word that if one of us would be there at his next round, he would accompany us, and preach in our cabin. Accordingly Brother Minshall went down and brought him up. and he preached the first Methodist sermon ever preached in this part of the country. Brother Minshall, his wife and myself, formed the first class, Brother M. being appointed leader. And it may be said of the members of this class, that there were no absent marks against their names.

About two years after this time, father moved up and built a cabin just across the brook from where my house now stands. Preaching was then appointed at his house. where it continued until mother's death, in 1822.

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This sad event occurred quite suddenly. Brother Minshall being at quarterly meeting at the time, word was sent him to bring the Presiding Elder to preach the funeral discourse. His name was Rev. John Strange, Rev. D. Davidson being preacher in charge. after dinner. he said to me, Brother Watson, you must have preaching at your house now. I said, " I don't know, we are so poor." My wife said. " We will do the best we can." Brother Davidson replied, "That is all we ask." During the twenty-nine years that intervened, between the organization of the first class and the building of the church now standing at Newport. we bad faithful ministers and many excellent meetings. I remember one meeting in particular, of four days' continuance, at which twenty-four persons joined the church at one evening service. This meeting was held by Alexander Morrow.

Before passing from this subject, I wish to record the following incident: Some years after preaching was established here, Rev. J. B. Finley was sent on to the district as Presiding Elder. He would often stop with us. on his way to his quarterly meetings in London. One day while plowing. I looked up and saw Brother Finley and Rev. Z. A. Morris, afterward Bishop Morris. coming up the road. They stopped at the house, and I left my team to go and welcome them, and take care of their horses. After dinner, I excused myself and returned to my work. Shortly afterward. Brother Finley came out to the field; as he came within hearing he said, " O, Brother Watson, if I had nothing to do but plow, how easy I would feel! " " Why " I said, " What have you to do now? This day " said he. " I have a family of twenty-one orphans to feed and clothe, beside the care of the church over which I am placed." He then requested me to go and tell my neighbors that there would be preaching at my house this evening, saving. " I will plow, until you return." So he went to plowing. and I started off to publish the appointment. A large congregation assembled to hear the word. A dancing-master had, that week, formed a class in London. When I told Finley of it, he turned to Brother Morris and said, " Brother Morris, you owe me a roundy sermon and must preach it tomorrow." Brother Morris did not say whether he would or not, but Sabbath morning, he did as requested. The sermon was a close, practical discourse on dancing, which the dancing-master had the privilige of hearing, being present.

Perhaps, just here, better than elsewhere, 1 may record the fact that it was once my pleasure to meet Bishop Asbury. About the year 181b, a camp-meeting was held on the ground now occupied by the town of Mechanicsburg.

Father and mother, Brother Minshall and wife, Rev. Mr. Sutton and wife, and myself and wife, went up to the meeting.

Bishop Asbury. came in a carriage from Urbana, and preached on Sabbath at 11 o'clock A. M. I remember his appearance very distinctly, though it was fifty-two years ago.

He was very feeble, so much so that he sat during the delivery of a part of the sermon; his hair was remarkably white. The preachers knew of his coming, and had prepared for him a very comfortable tent. This was the last visit of the bishop to the West.

On July 28, 1807, I started for Franklinton to secure a marriage license. My intended's father gave me an instrument of writing testifying to his willingness that the marriage should occur.

On the way I went in sight of Col. Langam's cabin, near where London now stands; he called to me, and asked where I was going; I told my desti-

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nation and the object of my journey; he asked if I had any testimonials, and when' I showed him what 1 had, he said his name might be of some use, and so he put it down, and I continued my journey.

And now commenced a series of difficulties which severely taxed my courage and patience. I had tied my overcoat behind the saddle; by some means the strings which were of tow, either wore out, or became untied, and my overcoat was lost. The road being obscure, and the grass being very high, I knew there was scarcely any chance of finding it, and hence kept on. following a path made by cattle, until I reached Georgesville, intending to secure the services of a Justice of the Peace living there.

Reaching his cabin, I tied my horse to the fence, went in, and much to my distress, found that the Justice had drank so deeply as to be unable to hold intelligible conversation with me. I determined to continue my journey and return so early as to find him sober.

Going to untie my horse, I found to my horror, that a cow had so injured the bridle that it seemed to me impossible to use it; however, I repaired damages as best I could. and pushed on to Franklinton. There I made my business known to the clerk of the court, Lyne Starling, and how did my heart sink when he informed me that my testimonials were not sufficient. In vain, I assured him all was right. There was a penalty of $1,500 for issuing a license without a full proof that all was right. I started for the door with a sad heart, when the Clerk called me back, and asked to see my papers again. After looking at them a moment he said, " Seeing Col. Langam's name is on your recommendation, I will issue the license." I received the document with great joy, supposing my troubles were well-nigh over.

I went to Gen. Foos' Hotel to stay all night, telling him I wished to pay my bill before retiring, as I must start quite early. I soon went to bed but not to sleep much.

Very early in the morning I found my gray horse and started for Georgesville, determined to find the Justice before he had time to take his morning dram. But alas, for all human expectations. he was too quick for me. I found him in a worse condition than he had been in the evening before. After much fruitless effort to get him started, he said, Stranger, go home," repeating his order three times " and bring your girl here, and I will marry you, and you shall love her better than any man ever loved his wife in the world." I replied, " I love her well enough to marry her." I then asked, if he could not direct me to another Justice. Staggering to the door, he gave me the direction to Esquire Gotes. I took the direction indicated and found the cabin late in the afternoon. Much to my disappointment, however. I found that Justice's horse was out on the barrens: he started to find the animal. and I was left to put in the time as best I could. I walked back and forth in the yard. every few moments stopping to look for the returning horse, and listen for the bell. The moments rolled away slowly, and still nothing was seen of the horse or its owner. I went into an old corn crib, and rolled and tumbled about there for a long time. At length. when I was about to despair, the Esquire returned with a borrowed horse: hastily changing his clothing, he mounted and gave the order to go on as fast as I chose.

Now, thought I. my troubles are over; I felt light as a feather and happy as a bird. Suddenly the thought struck nap that I might not have money enough to pay the Justice for the marriage ceremony. Quick as lightning my spirits sank to zero. I thought, what shall I do? I had

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but $2 and that was borrowed. I did not know of any one that I could borrow a cent. I felt that the Justice would trust me. if he only lived in my neighborhood. but living so far away. I could not expect him to do that.

Several times, I fell back determined to know the worst, but my heart would fail me. Then I would conclude to keep quiet about it until the ceremony was over; then if his price should be too high. I would be married at any rate. At length. I could endure the suspense no longer, and decided to know the worst if it killed me. " Esquire " said I. " what do you generally charge for performing a marriage ceremony." "The law allows me $2 " he replied. ' Good'' thought I. "I'm safe." All my gay feelings returned. and we journeyed on We reached home an hour before sundown.

The wedding occurred July 29, 1807. My wife's name was Mary Helphenstine. and she was born March 5, 1793. I went half a mile further to get my clothes. and was married in true backwoods style. My roundabout was of nankeen. being the remnants of a suit presented me by my supercargo in Germany. We went to my father's. where we spent a few days, then commenced housekeeping in a cabin belonging to a Mr. Smith. standing where my son Samuel now lives.

Mr. Smith and his family proved to be very strange people. He came tc the settlement with a family of three sons and one daughter. When he had cleared about eight acres of land and things began to look home-like about him. his children suddenly left him, he pretending not to know why they had left him or where they had gone. He had said to me that if I would marry Polly. we could come and live with him and use what he had about the house. This kind offer bad been accepted: all had thus far gone well. On a certain day, wife and I had gone over to Brother Minshall's to assist in killing some pigs. Some time during the day. we had observed a wagon at the house and wondered what it could be. Returning home in the evening, we found the house empty. Smith had left as unceremoniously as his children had done before him. Our distress was great, indeed. Wife asked with tears. "What shall we do?" I reminded her that we had some corn meal; that I could make a trough in a few minutes. and she could mix her dough in that; that we could roast oar meat and live well. "But." she asked: what shall I heat water in? " I thought of a Mr. Wit^hrow who was camping out a short distance above us, and of having seen an iron kettle in his possession. I concluded to go up and see if I could borrow it. Upon telling him our troubles, he lent us the kettle with pleasure. Thus we managed. though suffering many privations, to get through the winter.

A Mr. Groves came into the neighborhood and spent the winter with us He had a few articles necessary for housekeeping; in addition to these, I borrowed two knives and forks. made one out of buck-horn, my shoe knife made the number even-three knives and three forks. A chest served us for a table. A short time after commencing housekeeping my wife received the first present ever made us. She had spent the day in visiting sister Minshall: when she came to leave in the evening, wife's sister said she had nothing fit to make her a present of: "but," said she, "here is a cloth that will do to wipe your dishes." 'Wife declared she could not have given her anything that would have been more acceptable.

I was still owing $60, the last payment on my land. How to meet that obligation was a question that gave me great trouble. Col. Langam

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and a Mr. Huffman had a settlement of business matters in which the Colonel came out just $60 in debt. He told me of the debt and requested that I would give my note to Mr. H. for that amount, saying that he would wait upon me until it was convenient to pay it. I hesitated, because I had not, as yet, received a deed for my land. My father-in-law stated that he had authority to make me a deed and would do so at any time. I therefore gave my note, payable on demand. Mr. Huffman went to Chillicothe; put the note into the hands of an attorney by the name of Brush, with orders to have it collected as soon as possible. Of this fact, however. I remained in blissful ignorance until a writ was served upon me by the Sheriff. Mr. (roves .nobly offered to go my security on the docket, and I went to work to make the money as speedily as possible. which was very slow, indeed. Having secured $13 of the amount, I went, in company with the Sheriff to pay it. Col. Brush had just arisen from bed, and was washing himself. The Sheriff said I had brought $13 of the amount of that note, and asked if he should take it. "Yes," said Brush, take all you can get." "Colonel. "said I, can't you give me a little more time on that note. "Not another minute; not another minute." said he shaking his finger at me. We turned away, and the Sheriff informed me that my horse was advertised for sale at the court house, and he feared that I would be imprisoned. I made up my wind that 1 would never go there alive, and so told the Sheriff. He promised to do all in his power for me. and. if possible, stave the matter off until another court. I mounted my horse and, riding by Col. Brush. on his way to the court room, made my way home.

By all possible industry and economy, we succeeded, during the several months following, in saving $12 more. I was almost afraid to trust myself with the money, and hence took it over to my father, asking him to keep it for me. telling him what it was designed for. Some days afterward, Col. Langam called upon my father and stated that he was feeling badly, because some parties who owed him had failed to pay him, and was much distressed for a little money. He asked my father if he had any that he could lend him. Father said he bad the little I had put in his hands for safe keeping. The Colonel pledged his honor to return it before the next court. At length father was prevailed upon to let him have the money.

When I was made acquainted with this fact, I expressed my fears that it would not be forthcoming, but my father assured me there was no ground for uneasiness. But when the court came on, these fears were realized. One day a horseman rode up to my father's door and asked for David Watson. Being within hearing, I stepped forward, and said that my name was David Watson. It was then about 10 o'clock in the forenoon. The man assured me if I was not in Franklinton before noon it would be a sorry time for me. I asked if the money had not been paid. He said it had not, and he was sent for me. I knew if I could see Col. Langam there would be some way out of the difficulty; but he had gone to Chillicothe. We agreed to meet at the Esquire's office that night, who was living with Col. Langam. I went over, but the Colonel had not vet returned; and his son assured me he could do nothing for me. I agreed to accompany the Sheriff in the morning. Starting for home. I heard the bars fall, and looking up whom should I see but Col. L.. with Judge Scott and other gentlemen from Chillicothe. I told him of the difficulty into which he had brought me. He heard me through. with the utmost coolness, and then said. " the Esquire may examine my papers. and he will find your receipt. The papers were examined, and at the bottom of a large bundle my receipt was found. How

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eagerly I grasped it, and what a load was lifted from my heart! The Deputy Sheriff wanted to take it, but I had suffered so much I would not give it to any one. Thus was the trouble settled, and I was once more free.

The following spring we raised a cabin for Mr. Groves, where Mr. Evans now lives. After the logs were up. I said to the friends standing near me: I wish I had as good a house as that." Some one desired to know where I wanted it. I told him I wanted it about one mile west, on the creek. I was then asked if I would be there the next morning; and upon my replying in the affirmative, all agreed to meet there at that time and assist me. The company met according to agreement, and we put up my first cabin-twelve by twelve feet. It was small, indeed, but large enough to contain our household good. with room to spare.

The following items composed our outfit: One spinning wheel; my shoe bench; one bed; a few stools, and the table before referred to. Into this new home, all our own, we moved, February 12, 1808.

In the fall of 1808, a camp-meeting was held on Hay Run, near Chillicothe. Brother Minshall and his family my wife and myself attended together. On Saturday, Brother M. came to me. and asked if I had any quarterage. I replied: "You know how poor I am" and putting my hand in my pocket. I drew out all the money I had-37 1/2 cents and said " take what yon think I ought to give, if it is the whole." He took 25 cents, saying, "I will take this, and may be God will convert Polly to-night." Sure enough my wife was converted that night.

When the meeting closed. we went to Chillicothe, being desirous of purchasing some household goods, and also some clothing. You may imagine my feelings when I thought of my depleted purse. and saw the many things we so sadly needed. I went to the little store of James McClintock, whom I had known in Virginia, and spoke to him of my wants, adding, but I am poor, and see no prospect of paying you He generously told me to give myself no uneasiness about that, but to take just what I wanted. As it was then nearly night. he kindly suggested that we bring - our bedding into the store, use such groceries as we needed, adding, in the morning you shall take such as you want of my goods. This generous offer was thankfully accepted, and we returned to our little home very happy.

And now began a series of events which led to my being able to cancel this indebtedness, with some others that I had contracted. Jonathan Minshall had a friend in the East, who was by profession a school teacher. This friend desired to coma West and purchase a home. A short time before the occurrences above alluded to, a Quaker, who owned a small tract of land near to mine, desired to go to some friends near Richmond. Ind.. and gave his land and cabin to Minshall and myself for moving him. There was a legacy coming to Brother Minshall from some friend in Philadelphia. With his share of that, the school teacher bought this piece of land. With this money I paid James McClintock for the goods bought of him, and also canceled some other obligations I bad contracted and had Sly remaining. With this surplus money I bought three calves. Thus far the Lord had brought me on. We were out of debt, in our own house, owned three calves, had good health, and better than all my dear wife was converted. Surely the Scripture was confirmed. "He that goeth forth weeping, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again, with rejoicing bringing his sheaves with him."

My dear mother died January 5, 1822, and my father six mouths afterward, viz., June 11, 1822. It had long been his wish and prayer that he

SOMERFORD TOWNSHIP. -1143

might outlive mother, and then speedily follow her. His wish was granted. Lovely and beautiful were they in their lives, and in death they were not long divided. My father's funeral was preached by Rev. William Simmons.

In the spring of 1810, Madison County was formed, and Commissioners appointed to select a county seat. The present site of London was selected. The land belonged at that time to John Murfin. My father bought four lots. two in and two out lots. Three houses were built the following spring, one of which I helped to build. Rev. Father Sutton living here at the time, built one of them. which stood until a short time since. By this time we began to raise more than we needed for our immediate use-such as butter, eggs and vegetables. These I occasionally carried to our new county seat for sale, being the first one to do so .

I wish hastily to record my connection with the war of 1812. In those days all able-bodied men between the ages of eighteen and forty-five, were required to muster once a month, and to meet for general muster once a year. Expecting a call to active service, our Captain had divided us into classes of eight in number. We were soon called out to build a block-house at Mill Creek, near Marysville, Ohio. We spent four weeks there, and as we could see no signs of trouble from the Indians, we returned home. I made up my mind not to try to secure a substitute, nor in any way avoid going when I was needed. Soon we were called to Sandusky. On the way we met an express with the command to return. Several weeks were quietly spent at home. One day the Captain came with the word that I must go again. We hurried to Sandusky, arriving there at noon the day after the battle. It was decided to discharge 4,000 men, leaving 3,000 still in the field. I was among those that remained, and returned with others to Franklinton. Two wagon loads of us had been taken down with the measles. and were hauled home.

While in camp at Franklinton, I had formed the acquaintance of Mother Beam, as she was familiarly called. She had known my parents in Virginia. and said she was a member of the same class. While returning sick with the measles, I encouraged myself with the thought of meeting her, feeling sure she would receive me kindly and give me a chance to rest, Crawling out of the wagon and hurrying with what strength I had. I went to call on Mother B. At every step I felt stronger. Just before reaching the door I heard loud talking as if there was a gale of some kind within. At the door she met me coldly, when the following conversation occurred : " Can I come in?" "There is a large house," pointing across the way. With a sad heart I started across the way to the large house. Just before reaching there I saw a fellow-soldier refused the privilege of stopping. Returning, Mrs. B. asked, Did you not get permission?" I replied I saw a fellow-soldier refused who was as good as I was, and concluded it was useless for me to try. I reminded her that I was small, and would get into a corner and occupy as little room as possible. She declared if I stayed at her house I would be in the way. However, I concluded not to go away until ordered to do so, and setting my knapsack down and leaning against the door. I spoke a pleasant word as often as opportunity offered A length she offered me a chair, which I accepted with thanks. In a short time supper was ready, and one asked me if I would not have some. I feared to decline lest the invitation should not be repeated, and under the circumstances I did not like to accept. While I hesitated she said. " You had better do so." I very gladly accepted. After supper a kind of bed was shown me, which I reached by

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climbing a ladder to the second story. In the morning I was so stiff, it seemed for a time that I could not get up; but after several attempts I succeeded in doing so. I went to headquarters, got my discharge, and started I home. On the way I have out, but being assisted by my companions to a house near by, I was refreshed by a night's rest, and reached home the next day. Thus ended my experience in the war of 1812.

From 1818 to 1824, I was employed to distribute the laws through this western district-a territory embracing some fifteen counties. During my long and tedious journeys, many amusing incidents occurred Among many that I might record, I select the following: Once, when on my going to the western part of my work, I stayed overnight with a Quaker, who lived a short distance below Wilmington. He told me that the next night I would be among the horse-thieves of the Miami Valley. During the next day, I was much troubled with reflections upon what the old gentleman said. As the evening drew near, I found these troublesome impressions increased in frequency and intensity. The surroundings were well calculated to deepen such thoughts. For intensity intervals, I saw no one, not even a dwelling. When I came within hearing of the waters of the river, I felt, surely, this is the place.

About dark, I came to where a new road turned off to the left. A short distance before me. on the main road, I could see a cabin; I was about to leave my team in the road to go and inquire the right way, when a large, rough-looking man came out of the cabin, and, walking up to one of my horses, said, with an oath, " That's a fine horse." Then he looked at the whole team before speaking to me, or apparently noticing me. At length, he addressed me thus: "Good evening." Good evening," I replied. "What are you loaded with?" " Laws," said I, " Laws? laws?" he repeated, "have they nothing else to do but to haul laws?" " I don't know what they have to do," I said. " but I am loaded with laws." "Can I stay all night with you"' I asked. "Yes, sir." he replied. . "Have you any feed?" "Yes, sir." Ah, thought I, you wish to deceive me. If I stop with you, I will be in the Miami before morning. '` How far to the next house?"' I inquired. "Three miles." he said. "But you can't get there to-night."Why?"' I saw a road leading in that direction." " That was a road for a two-horse wagon. It won't admit of the passing of a four-horse wagon."Well," said I, " I believe I will try it." You may try it, but you will never get through," he said. Accordingly, I started full of fears, imagining danger at every step. It seemed to me, my horses were my only friends Speaking to them as if they were intelligent beings. I promised them extra care, provided they took me safely through.

I soon found difficulty. When but a short distance on the new road, my wheel struck a tree. and I was fast. I unhitched my leaders fastened them to the back part of the wagon. drew it back some distance, then hitching them to the wheel, I drew it as far from the tree as necessary, replaces my horses. and. with all possible care and perseverance I soon came to clearing, and saw a light through the window of a cabin. Going to the door, I asked the woman if I could stay all night. Her husband not being in at the moment she chould not tell me. certainly. Turning to my horses, I met her husband. ''Can I stay all night with you?" Yes, sir: glad to sea you." Ah, thought I again, so would any horse-thief be glad under the circumstances. However, I made up my mind to stop with the man and take the chances. My horses were well taken care of, and I had a good night's rest. After having completed my work. I presented my bill. and it

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may be mentioned as an illustration of the financial condition of the State in that early day, that there was not money enough in the treasury to pay me.

In the fall after I moved into my house, the brook, now running near to where I live, suddenly disappeared some distance above this point, and did not re-appear for a considerable distance. We were put to considerable trouble to secure water. It never occurred to us to dig for it, and since there were no springs we were compelled either to carry it from the point above us where it disappeared, or below us, where it appeared again. And as I did not own a bucket, all must be carried in what was called a " piggin," a sort of little tub without a bail. In the spring I noticed the water standing around in pools. and the thought struck me that plenty could be secured by digging for it. I therefore dug a few feet and found abundance of good water near the surface. That first well is still to be seen.

When I first came to this part of the country, the Indians were numerous. They often came near my cabin, and my association with them was quite intimate. I will relate two or three incidents with which the Indians had some connection, as illustrative of their character. One day while I was digging trenches in which to plant apple and peach seeds, an old Indian woman came and sat down near me. It was said she was one hundred and five years old. She remained perfectly quiet until I had finished my work. When I arose up from my work she left her seat, and, coming close up to me patted me on the back and said, " Bye and bye you have heap, heap." at the same time turning around and motioning with her hand. She doubtless meant to assure me that the time would come when I would own a great quantity of land. This occurred in 1807.

During the years 1807 and 1808. we went all the way to Chillicothe to mill. not knowing of anyone nearer. I asked Capt. Johnny, an old Indian, if he did not know of a mill near to us. He said there was one on the Miami somewhat nearer. I offered to give him $1.50 if he would blaze a path from my house to the mill. I recollect as if it was yesterday his coming up from his camp, a short distance below, to commence his work. He was a very large man. and came up the creek smoking, and puffing the clouds of smoke above his head. He struck his hatchet into an oak that stood near the cabin. and then started as straight as a bee-line for Clifton, the location of the mill, a distance of about twenty miles. Just here I think I ought to speak of the first grist I ever sent to mill. It will give the young people of to-day some idea of how we began life in this country. On a certain day my father was going over to the neighborhood of the mill on horseback I asked him if he could not take a pair of saddle-bags along. Upon his assuring me that he could. I put a peck of wheat into one end of the saddlebags and a peck of rye into the other. this being the amount of grain then ready for grinding.

Some time daring the year 1808. I was helping to prepare some timber with which Mr. W ithrow intended to build a house. On my way home in the evening. I passed the Indian camp. The hunters had just returned with some excellent venison. Seeing an Indian with whom I was well acquamnted. I offered to wrestle with him for same of the game. He declined, giving as a reason that his ankle, which some time before he had injured by falling from a tree. still pained him. There was a very large fellow near by. who. having heard the conversation, accepted my offer. He was very unpopular with the tribe, being a lazy. good-for-nothing sort of a fellow. He was almost twice as large as myself, but I knew he was slow and clumsy.

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I threw him very quickly. No sooner had he struck the ground than the Indians set up a great shout at his expense. which greatly enraged my antagonist. While I was talking. he slipped up behind me and threw me with such violence as greatly to injure my breast. which retained the soreness produced thereby for a long time. After reaching home, some nice por. tions of venison were sent me in recognition of my skill in throwing the big Indian.

Some eighteen years before the death of my wife. she experienced a wonderful cure from a very serious sickness. One of her hands became strangely affected, being much swollen and almost useless giving her at times great pain. In addition, she had great difficulty in breathing; o much so that she dared not lie down for fear of suffocation. From these afflictions, she was much reduced in strength and at last was entirely prostrated unable to walk and needing some one to watch with her day and night. This had been her condition for a long time; we had begun to despair of her recovery. On a certain evening she said to the person waiting on her, that she must arouse her up in case she went to sleep. as she very much feared if she did not she would be sure to smother. In a few moments she dropped into a doze. and beginning to smother we raised her up and she was relieved. I being weary, laid down to rest, and in a few moments was sound asleep. Presently my wife lay down again. She afterward told us that as she did so she prayed. saving. " O Lord, do with me as Thou seest best." She soon fell asleep. and without any further trouble in breathing. slept soundly for about two hours. At the expiration of that time. I was awakened by her talking. She told the lady who was watching with her, that she felt she was made new, and that she was sure she could get up and walk across the room as well as she could twenty years ago. The lady expressed her astonishment. and I said, " I have no doubt you think so. but I don't believe you have strength to do it." She replied, "My dear. I will show you." and rising from the bed, she walked rapidly back and forth across the room, clapping her hands, and saying, " I am made whole, soul and body." And strange to say, her hand so badly swollen, and for so long a time nearly useless, was entirely restored, the swelling going down and its ordinary strength immediately returning. The same was true of her general debility; it was removed instantly.

After this change, she was spared to us for eighteen years. dying January 19, 1855. and never, in her life enjoyed better health than during that time. Her own statement was that during the sleep referred to, she was taken to heaven; saw the beauties of the place; heard the sweetest music that ever fell on her ears; that, she was told she could not remain, but must return to earth and publish these things to as many as she could reach. The neighbors came from all directions and great distances to hear her strange account and see for themselves the wonderful cure that God had wrought in her. To them, she would tell her experience, and confessed to having been sanctified during this time. And such was the earnestness of her Christian life, and the consistency of her daily life, as to confirm her confession.

We had born to us the following children. viz.: Susannah, born September 29, 1808; James. December 20. 1810; Jesse, April 29, 1813; Elizabeth. June 15, 1815: Mary E.. September 16, 1817; Samuel H., September 7, 1821; Isabella. September 10, 1824: Stephen. June 4. 1827: David, June 24. 1830; Catherine P., April 26, 1833; Josephine. March 19, 1836:

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Louisa. December 27, 1840. Of these, Susannah, Isabella, Stephen and David are living.

There are many of deep interest to myself that come to my mind as I think of the past. Some of them might be found worthy of a record in this sketch: and it may be that some of my friends. who have heard me speak of them. will wonder why I have not written them. But upon the whole. I do not deem them of sufficient importance to justify their notice in this place.

In conclusion, I may say I am now an old man. and have lived for more than sixty years on this spot. I shall soon go the way of all the earth; and in view of this solemn fact. it is an unspeakable pleasure to me to know that during all that time I have lived in peace , my neighbors no serious misunderstanding having occurred in all these years. I have witnessed numerous and great charges, and rejoice to believe that the majority of them have resulted in good to my fellow-men. I do not ----- the days or usages of the past. believing that the present is immeasurably better of the past. If what I have written is not in keeping fresh in the memory of friends anything worthy of their remembrance, and in showing the young people of to-day their superior advantages. I shall feel that I have not written in vain. DAVID WATSON, SR.

LONDON, Ohio. April, 1870.

Mr. Watson died April 19, 1870.