HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY - 665

CHAPTER XXV.

LA FAYETTE TOWNSHIP—PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION—CHIPPEWA LAKE—DRAINAGE AND IMPROVE-
MENT—MILLING INTERESTS—GROWTH OF VILLAGES—EDUCATION AND RELIGION.

AMONG the foreigners who came from Europe to the assistance of the British Colonies in America during the Revolution, was a young man whose name and fame, like those of Washington, will be green forever in the memory of the people of the United States. This young nobleman was the Marquis de La Fayette. He saw the wrong done the American Colonies, and, with soul burning with indignation, he resolved to risk his life and fortune in assisting them to attain their independence. After a bloody eight years' war, he saw the British hosts retire, and, full of joy at the success of the colonies againstsuch fearful odds, he returned to the land of his birth, to pass the remainder of his days. After the lapse of many years, he resolved to visit the country which, like a star, was rising in beauty in the West, and whose freedom he had struggled to secure. With grateful hearts, the nation turned out to do him honor, and gave him an ovation accorded but few men in the history of the world. He has long since passed away; but his memory grows brighter with each succeeding decade; and the mention of his name, like the glad notes of the spring bird returning from the genial sky of Southern climes, will meet a wel-

666 - HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY.

coming sentiment in every American heart as long as the nation lives. Cities, villages, counties and towns are named in his honor, and are ever-living monuments to his memory. Thus it was, that, when the township was organized, the County Commissioners, at the suggestion of the settlers then residing within its limits, bestowed upon it the name of La Fayette.

The township is five miles square, and the soil, for agricultural purposes, is second to that of no other portion of the county. Year after year, the same kind of grain can be raised upon the same piece of land, without any appreciable decrease in quality or quantity. The soil in the vicinity of the lake is largely alluvial, having been washed in by frequent rains through a long period of years. Extending north from the lake is a broad valley, that rises gradually in height until it reaches the northern limits of the township, where it terminates in a succession of hills that characterize the height of land which separates the Ohio River and Lake Erie Valleys. The northern tier of lots is almost wholly drained by branches of Rocky River, while the remainder of the township, except a portion of the western side, slopes toward Chippewa Lake. The valley above the lake was once an almost impenetrable swamp, which, before the advent of the pioneers, was the resort of large number of Indian trappers and hunters. After the township had become quite well populated. it was soon evident that the swamp, before many years, would be drained and reclaimed by the agriculturist; but no decisive action was taken until some twelve years ago, when the drainage of the broad valley became a county matter. The County Commissioners took control of the movement, and each man living in the valley was assessed in money and labor in proportion to the amount of land he owned that would be benefited by the drainage. Some living far up the valley, whose farms were well drained before the movement came into effect, were assessed at what they considered extortionate rates. Additional drainage would afford them no benefit, and ' many looked upon their assessments as outrageous, and no little grumbling was incited by the action of the Commissioners. The theory of the latter was that, inasmuch as all the land—hills and vales—lying within the valley, would be drained by prospective artificial trenches, each man should contribute something toward the expense of extensive drainage. One large ditch, four or five feet deep and about twenty feet wide, was to be dug north from the lake through the center of the valley, for a distance of over two miles. Many lateral ditches were to be excavated from the sides of the main one, and each man was given a section to dig, according to his assessment. A large trench was also to be made south of the lake. in order to lower the waters of the lake, and thus reclaim a portion of its bottom. Accordingly, about twelve years ago, largely through the tireless efforts of William R. Goodin, all being in readiness. under the management of a county agent, the citizens were called out and the work began. The ditch and its branches were completed in due time. and the system of drainage is the most extensive and complete in the county. About $13,000 in money and labor were expended, and already the wisdom of the movement is apparent, as the large body of land reclaimed has increased over 100 per cent in value, thus increasing the value of the taxable property in the county several thousand dollars. About two-thirds of the lake lie within the township limits. The bottom and banks are muddy, and, in times of high winds, the water becomes turbid over the entire lake. The approaches are gradual, and the water bordering the shore is shallow. A dense growth of sedges. bul-

HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY - 667

rashes, and other semi-aquatic plants, covers the margin and extends out some distance into the water. Several varieties of fishes are found in the lake, among which are black bass, pike, perch, bull-heads and suckers. At certain seasons of the year, seiner come and carry away large quantities of nice fish. Notwithstanding the natural inconveniences and obstructions which surround the lake, inasmuch as it is the only body of water of any consequence in the county, it is a great resort for skating, picnic and pleasure parties of all kinds. The lake varies in depth from a few feet to sixty feet, and is thus able to float vessels of the largest size. In comparatively late years, pleasure grounds have been fitted up on its banks, appropriate buildings have been erected, and sail and steam vessels of various sizes have been launched upon its waters. One steam vessel, capable of carrying over a hundred persons, " plowed " the lake for a number of years, but was finally disabled and removed. During the summer months, sail and row boats may be seen cleaving its waters, but, when wind storms appear, these vessels are safer moored at the shore. Boats are kept in readiness, by several parties, to rent to pleasure-seekers. In the winter months, when the ice is good, skating parties come to the lake, and often hundreds may be seen sweeping across the frozen fluid like the wind, endeavoring to outdo each other in swiftness and skill. The lake has been the scene of several tragedies. In 1857, a party of young men hired a boat and rowed out onthe lake to bathe. While sporting in the water, one of their number, who had dived, was suddenly missed. Search was immediately instituted, and, although assistance was obtained from the shore, the body of the young man, whose name was Henry Streeter, was not recovered until about 1 o'clock that night. The body was finally found in eight feet of water,, and at a considerable distance from the spot where it went down. In 1843, a young man named Thomas Kennedy, while bathing in the lake, became entangled in the weeds near the shore while under the water, and was drowned. Strange to say, these are the only accidents that have occurred. From the number who frequent the lake and venture upon it, an unusually small percentage have met with accident. Chippewa Lake received its name from a tribe of Indians that once lived upon its banks. In early years beaver and otter were found, but these shy animals have long since disappeared. Mink and muskrat are the only animals caught at the lake whose .fur is worth preserving. Large quantities of ice are taken from the lake during the winter season, and stored in neighboring ice-houses, to be devoted to the use of pleasure-seekers during the summer and for transportation, by rail, to distant points. It is stated by old settlers that the lake is not as deep by twenty feet as it was sixty years ago. Two or more causes have contributed to decrease the depth: The deposition of soil in the lake by the streams that feed it, and the greater depth of the artificial outlet. Should the shallowness now being produced continue at its present rate of increase, the lapse of a century will permanently injure this sheet of water. It is thought, however, that, from the fact that the inlets and outlets are firmly established, possibly beyond any material alteration, the depth of the lake will remain as it now is for a long and indefinite length of time. This little body of water has an unwritten history that will remain shrouded in the obscurity of the distant past. Over its wave, the light canoe of the Indian hunter swept along, and in its murky water the panting deer plunged to escape the sharp fangs of the wolf or bear. Wild birds circling to the earth from the silent depths of the air, sought its cool waters.

668 - HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY.

Who will venture to say that the Mound Builders have not utilized the lake and its surroundings for their mysterious purposes? These are questions that can be answered only by the past—the past which remains as silent as the tomb of man.

The first settlers, so far as any knowledge can be obtained, traditional or' otherwise, were roving hunters, who squatted temporarily for the purpose of trapping and hunting in the vicinity of the lake. Traditions are in circulation that, immediately after the war of 1812, rude bark shanties could be seen on both the eastern and the western side of the lake. These shanties are said to have been covered, inside and out, with the furs of the mink, beaver and otter, , and it is stated that the homely features of a tall backwoods woman could be seen at one of .them. Who these hunters were, and when they squatted in the township, are matters wholly within the province of conjecture. When they left the neighborhood of the lake, is unknown. Their presence there, however, soon after 1815, is well authenticated by those early settlers in other townships, who saw them. As soon as the war closed, and all apprehension of danger from savages had passed away, hundreds of resolute men who had been reared in the wilderness, where fierce wild animals were everyday sights, pushed out into the trackless wildwood to make a living by the arts of hunting and trapping. Undismayed by the numerous dangers that hemmed them in, they kept on in advance of the border settlements, and the presence of half a dozen neighbors within twice as many miles, was a decisive signal to push farther into the depths of the forests. It thus occurred that, some time prior to 1820, what roving hunters there were living in La Fayette, left the township. From 1818 to 1832, the territory composing La Fayette, was attached 1to Westfield. So far as known, no permanent settler located in the township until after 1820. The precise date cannot now be ascertained, and neither is the name of the first settler known. It is likely that William Bissett was the first permanent settler in the township. He erected a double log cabin on the farm now owned by L. D. Finney, as early as 1825, and for many years, kept a sort of public house. The roving hunters, living in the township and the unsettled forest west, often came to his cabin for accommodations. Westfield Township had been settled many years previously, and the settlers there in going to Medina, were compelled to go directly north, and pass the cabin of Bissett to escape the bottomless bogs in the lake valley. This circumstance early led to the location of a somewhat circular road through the township, being the same as the present Medina and Westfield road. It is stated, that, for several years after 1825, Bissett's cabin was the only dwelling on the road, in La Fayette, between Westfield and Medina. At that time the township was frequented by wandering herds of deer, and numerous wolves, bears, and other fierce animals. The settlers from Harrisville came to the lake to hunt and fish, and many a hard fight was had in its vicinity with the larger animals, which hunters were slow and cautious to attack. It is related that Amos Hubbard, an early settler, often told on himself the following story : He had been to Medina, and had started for home so late in the afternoon that he was overtaken by intense darkness before he had gone three miles. To add to the solemnity of the scene and the apprehensions of fear in the breast of Mr. Hubbard, a heavy wind began to sweep through the dark forest, and the deep notes of distant thunder heralded an approaching storm. For a week or two previously, several panthers had been seen prowling around the pigsty of Mr.

HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY - 669

Bissett, watching for an opportunity to carry off one of the animals. As morning approached, they retired to the swamps, where they remained concealed till night again appeared, when they once more began their nocturnal journey to Mr. Bissett's pigsty. These stories also added to the fears of Mr. Hubbard. He traveled on as fast as he could through the dark woods, and, having reached a spot about a mile northeast of Bissett's cabin, he suddenly heard a strange noise near him. He paused, and could distinctly hear some heavy animal walking slowly on the leaves but a few rods to his right. Filled with direful misgivings, Mr. Hubbard hastily sought a tree of convenient size, which he hastily ascended and ensconced himself in the thick foliage, waiting anxiously for the pending danger to manifest itself. The strange sounds were frequently repeated during the night, and occasionally came quite close to the foot of the tree: but the darkness was so intense that not an object could be seen. Mr. Hubbard remained in the tree, shaking and chattering with cold, until the gray light of approaching day had sufficiently advanced to reveal to the astonished eyes of the crestfallen man, a yoke of oxen that had strayed away from Mr. Bissett, and had wandered and fed around the tree wherein the frightened traveler had taken refuge. The strange noise had been caused by the oxen as they cropped the leaves, twigs, and scanty herbage growing in the woods. It is stated that Mr. Hubbard did not relate the occurrences of that eventful night until the lapse of time had greatly detracted from the merits of the joke. Within the next five years after the erection of Mr. Bissett's cabin, there came into the township the following settlers, most of whom located on farms near that of Mr. Bissett : Vivalda Wood, Epbraim Harris, Henry C. Ransom, Henry F. Hall, Ezekiel Slater, Anson Bellamy, Chancey Foote, Isaiah Allen and Shadrach Doane, Abraham Brooks, Edward Starr, Alexander Barrett, Elijah Hubbard, Milo Loomis, Jeremiah Doty. Matthew Leffingwell and a few others. Prior to 1835, there came in large accessions to the settlers already there, among whom were the following, several of whom, no doubt, came as late as 1840: James Martin, William Walters,' Garrett Spitzer, Jonathan Palmer, John Lee, Roswell Williams, Nicholas Spitzer, Daniel Merritt, Thomas Cass, Andrew McDonald, Andrew McCabe, William and John Carlton, Mr. Foster, John Bibbins, Gilbert Thom, William G. Moore, John Maythan, Hiram Wright, Mr. Northrup, Henry Chapin, Earl Moulton, William Bleekman, Olney Allen, Jesse Harrington, Child Childs, Ephraim Rood, Ephraim Coy, James Rise, Mr. Hawkins, Silas Gates, John and Joseph Robb, Alva Averill, A. Wightman, John Day, Russell Alger, Salmon Richards, Phineas Needham, John Mead, Daniel and Leonard Field, William Peck, Azariah Eastman, Simpson Simmonds, William Averill, Nathan Wightman, Mr. Chase, E. Dealing, J. Watring, L. M. Pierce, and several others, whose names cannot now be ascertained. In 1840, the township was quite thickly populated. The farms were small, and the rude log cabins were on almost every section. Industries began to arise, frame buildings to go up, and, erelong, what was but a few years before a tangled wilderness became suitable for the habitations of the cultured and refined. Wild animals disappeared, except occasional stragglers that found their way into the township. Wolves remained Ionger than the others, and during the early settlement were a continual nuisance to those who desired to keep sheep. Sometimes they became so bold from hunger, as to approach quite close to the cabins, where they would howl dismally until morning. One

670 - HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY.

day three small William Doane, Solon Harris and W. E. Moulton—were sent through the woods to the cabin of a neighbor about two miles west, to get a quantity of butter. While they were returning, they suddenly heard several wolves howl behind them, and, glancing back, saw three or four of the fierce creatures coming on the run directly down the path toward them. W. E. Moulton was so young that he was unaware of the danger he was in, and, seeing the wolves coming swiftly toward him, wanted to wait and see the yelping animals that were following him; but his companions, who were older, realizing to some extent the danger, hurried him toward home at the top of his speed. The wolves howled at every jump as they ran, and soon, from all parts of the forest, for a mile or more, an answering chorus was begun. While the boys were running along the rough path at their best pace, a deer suddenly leaped to its feet within a few rods of them, and bounded off through the forest. A pack of the wolves took its trail and followed it, with what success is unknown. The boys, now thoroughly aroused, were soon at Mr. Moulton's clearing, and the wolves, fearing to continue the pursuit farther, withdrew, but they continued to howl, probably with disappointment, for half an hour after the boys were safe in Mr. Moulton's cabin. Had the boys not reached the clearing as they did, they would undoubtedly have furnished a repast for the ravenous wolves. This event transpired about 1835, and shows the condition of the township at that time, relative to the presence of wild animals. The wolves became so great a nuisance that it was finally resolved to institute a circular hunt to rid that portion of the county of the pests. Accordingly, on a given day, a large number of men surrounded the township of Chatham, and began to march toward a common center; but, from some cause unknown, the line became broken, and all the animals except a few foxes escaped. So great became the raid against the wolves, however, that in a few years they had disappeared from the township.

The territory comprising the township was owned, in 1830, by Apollos and T. B. Cook, Lucy Day, S. and T. Fowler, Elijah Hubbard, Lemuel Moffatt, Samuel Moffatt's heirs and William N. Sill. The Fowlers owned the greater part of Tract 2. Sill's and Hubbard's possessions Iay in Tract 1, and the others were mostly confined to Tract 3. An abstract of the title to any lot of land in the township reveals the name of one of the above persons as the early owners. The township was probably first surveyed in 1818, though subsequent to that time, and prior to 1832, it was listed and taxed as belonging to Westfield, to which it was attached. As was before stated, the township was regularly organized and named in 1832, with the election of the following officers; Abraham Brooks, Justice of the Peace; Ephraim Harris, Clerk; Vivalda Wood, Treasurer and Supervisor; Alexander Barrett, Anson Bellamy and Vivalda Wood, Trustees. The office duties were so light that Mr. Wood was honored with three distinct offices, and the Justice was required to do duty as a Constable. The names of voters at the first election were as follows: William Bissett, David Ransom, Ezekiel Slater, .Anson Bellamy, Henry F. Hall, Henry C. Ransom, Vivalda Wood, Alexander Barrett, Ephraim Harris and Edward Starr. This is the list taken from the poll-book, but it does not comprise one-half the settlers then residing in the township. It is likely that, from the fact that the offices afforded but little pay and were considered more of a nuisance than otherwise, but few of the settlers were office-seekers. What a change the lapse of half a century has 'wrought in this respect in the minds of the

HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY. - 671

citizens! Now the appetite for office is rarely appeased, and the man who shuns official position is a rara avis among the children of men.

Soon after 1830, several saw-mills were erected in La Fayette. It is likely that William Bissett erected the first not later than 1835. The mill was located on the farm now owned by L. D. Phinney, and was a small frame structure, with an up-and-down saw. A dam was built across the creek, which served to bank up sufficient water to enable the saw to run some five or six months of the year. In times of drought, it remained idle from lack of water. At the expiration of ten or twelve years, a sudden flood swept away the dam, and the mill was allowed to stop. A few years after the erection of the Bissett Mill, Jacob Miller and Jacob Hill erected another, a short distance above, on the same creek. It was also a framed mill, and was run in the usual manner by water-power. The dam was largely built of mud, and, in times of freshets, was a source of infinite trouble to the owner, who was compelled to watch and work night and day to prevent its being washed away. The mill was located at a bend of the stream, where advantage was taken of natural milling facilities. The mill-pond was large, and the pressure of water upon the small dam, in times of floods, was enormous, and was, undoubtedly, the cause, in times of high water, which, at least, contributed to the frequent breakage of the dam. The mill did good work for some twelve or fifteen years, when it was abandoned and the saw removed. Joseph Watring, a sawyer of long experience, erected a saw-mill about 1844, on the same creek, above the mills of Bissett and Miller. In early years, the stream, though small, furnished excellent water-power for mills, as its narrow channel and descent afforded abundant opportunity to build dams of great strength. Mud dams were found too frail to resist the action of the water, and were accordingly strengthened by stone and timber abutments erected on the lower side. Notwithstanding all this, however, the dam was often swept away. The owners soon learned wisdom by experience, and built dams that could withstand any volume of water likely to sweep down the creek. The Watring Mill was a good one, and under the management of its able owner, turned out large quantities of sawed lumber, at prices ranging from $2 to $3.50 per thousand, or one-half of the logs. Settlers with but little money were compelled to adopt the latter method in paying for their lumber. The fourth saw-mill on this creek (which should be named Mill Creek) was built by Mr. Ross. It resembled the others in design, and in all essential particulars was identical. These mills received a large patronage from, other townships, and all were thus enabled to afford the owners a profitable revenue. None of them could run longer than five 9r six months of the year, and most of them were operated day, night and Sundays, as long as the water lasted. One night, after a heavy rain, Mr. Ross was out watching his dam, and to see that his logs were not carried down the stream, when, upon passing new his cornfield, he suddenly came upon two men, who had a bushel basket, and seemed to be intent on the unlawful business of stealing corn, whereupon, it is related, the following conversation took place: " What in the devil are you doing in my corn field?" " Cooning." " Yes, cooning in a cornfield with a bushel basket! Do you get many?" Here, unfortunately, the narrator ended his tale, the remainder of which is in danger of falling into forgetfulness. It is probable that the sequel will show, that, after the event narrated, the practice of coon hunting with a bushel basket :or any other kind of a basket) was abandoned.

672 - HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY.

The four saw-mills on " Mill Creek " were not the only ones early in the township. In 1834 or 1835, Edward Dorsey built a saw-mill in the southeastern part, on a small stream called Burt Creek, from the first settler living on its banks. The motor was water, and the mill was operated successfully by Mr. Dorsey for about a year and a half, when it was sold to Abraham Whiteside. Soon afterward John Robb became the owner. Several additions and improvements increased the operative capacity of the mill, which began to do quite extensive work, with a steadily increasing patronage. After a time, Andrew McDonald purchased an interest in. the mill privilege, and soon afterward steam was employed to take the place of water in operating the mill. But, notwithstanding frequent trials, the engine could not be made to work satisfactorily, and, in about 1848, the mill with a small patronage, passed into the ownership of Joseph Robb and John McDonald, who permitted it to run down. About the time this mill was erected, Andrew McDonald built one on another small creek, about a mile northwest. The mill building was quite a large frame structure, and the dam was constructed of mud, stone and timbers. The framework of the mill was large and strong, and the timbers, many of them as sound as when first prepared, are being used in building a church at the village of Chippewa Lake. Mr. McDonald conducted the mill a few years, when it was permitted to run down, and, as was stated, the owner purchased an interest in the Dorsey Mill.

Jonathan Palmer was probably the first blacksmith to work at the trade in the township. He erected a small log shop on his farm in 1834, and for ten years did considerable work. The next year after his shop was built, a Mr. Holbon, living a short distance north of the Center, built the second blacksmith-shop.

He also did quite a thriving business for a number of years. In about 1842, a number of prominent men in the township concluded that a grist-mill could sustain itself, formed a stock company, and, in accordance with their conclusion, built a large, three-storied frame structure, locating it half a mile south of the Center. A Mr. Barnhart, an experienced miller, was employed by the stockholders to take charge of the mill. But the judgment of the owners as to the self-sustaining capacity of the mill proved to be erroneous. as, notwithstanding the efforts made by them, the patronage secured did not pay a fair percentage on the capital invested. Finally, the company sold the mill to J. O. Simmonds, who soon afterward transferred it to others. After passing through several hands, Mr. Tan Orman purchased the machinery, which was removed. The building is at present used as a blacksmith-shop. The building was altered to a two-storied one several years ago. During the early history of the township, the settlers were compelled to go to Akron. Wooster, and other distant places for their flour. Going to mill was an occasion greatly dreaded, for, ordinarily, the roads were poor, and during the spring months practically bottomless. Sometimes an entire week was consumed in the journey, and the cattle or horses suffered severely from the harassing tramp through the mud and mire.

Thomas Cass. one of the earliest settlers, was a wheelwright, and erected a small shop on his farm. where, for a number of years, he manufactured spinning-wheels and various other useful articles, which were sold to his neighbors. His wares were mostly prepared during the winter months and at odd times, and on rainy or stormy days when nothing else could be done. Many of his productions were sold in Medina, and undoubtedly, today, the spinning-wheels preserved as curiosities in the garrets of the residences of many of the old settlers

HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY - 673

were made by Mr. Case. There were coopers among the early settlers, who made a limited number of kegs, tubs, rude pails and buckets, and barrels, selling them to the neighbors. No distillery has ever cursed the township with its productions. The citizens, many of them, however, " loved to court the society of the ruby god," and were proud of being considered good judges of superior whisky and brandy. Generally, the settlers were sober, temperate, industrious and honest.

The village of Chippewa Lake was laid out and platted in 1873. Sixteen lots were originally laid off, to which several additions have since been made—one in 1877, by Jonathan Palmer, and one in 1880, by Mr. Clark. Almost the first building in the village was one moved in by J. Cotner, in the spring of 1874. This building was immediately occupied by Koppes & Rickard, who placed therein about $1,300 worth of a general assortment of goods. During the summer, the building now occupied by this partnership was erected, and, the following fall, the stock was removed to the new building. A steady and moderate trade has been given the merchants, sufficient in amount to afford an opening for something more extensive. The stock has been added to until it now is valued at some $2,000.

In the spring of 1873, largely through the influence of Jonathan Palmer, a post office was established at the village, or, rather, at the residence of Mr. Palmer, who was appointed Postmaster. A year later, Mr. Palmer resigned, and Mr. Koppes, at the village, received the appointment, an office he has retained until the present.

In 1874, Simpson Pomeroy erected a blacksmith-shop, and, about the same time, E. L. Richtell entered into partnership with him, and the two conducted a combined wagon and blacksmith shop. H. Morrison has a small shoeshop in the village Several residences have been constructed, ten or twelve in number, and the village started thus late in the history of the county is destined to become quite populous. It is sufficiently removed from other railroad stations to render it apparent that two or three good stores could not only be self-sustaining, but afford the owners a fair compensation for their labor and capital invested. The proximity of the village to Chippewa Lake, after which it was named, will also add to its attractions. In coming years, the approaches to the lake will be improved, larger and better places of resort will be erected on its shore, pleasure vessels. of various kinds will be launched upon its waters, the sedges and grasses growing so luxuriantly along its borders will be removed and possibly replaced, at least, in some places, with stone and gravel, thus providing a suitable beach for those desiring to bathe, and the village will be frequented by pleasure seekers from home and abroad. On the western shore of the lake is an excellent landing of hard clay, which has been there since the earliest times. It is known as the Indian Landing," and tradition has it that the earth was placed there by pre-historic man. However that may be, it is a safe and convenient approach to the lake, and will, undoubtedly, be utilized in the near future. The lake should be made the home of trout and other varieties of large and valuable fish. All these events will transpire within a comparatively few years, and the villages should begin to make readiness to assume metropolitan airs, as the village will receive a permanent and extensive benefit.

As nearly as can be gathered, no frame building was erected in the village of La Fayette prior to 1840. Earlier than that date as many as ten or twelve log buildings of various sizes, appearances and capacities, had been erected, and were occupied by as

674 - HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY.

many families. The village, begun as early as 1834, was not compactly built, but the log cabins were scattered along the main street for a distance of eighty rods. It is not remembered that any industry had been started prior to the above date. In about 1840, Joshua Phillips, of Westfield, erected the first frame building in the village. It was a small structure and was intended for a storeroom. Soon afterward, a small stock of goods was placed in the room, and Stephen Phillips, a crippled son of Joshua, was given charge of the store. The stock was not worth more than $200, and was composed largely of whisky. Soon afterward, George Love brought to the village over $1,000 worth of goods. This was the first store of any consequence, and he kept a general assortment, including dry goods. In 1848, Earl Moulton opened a store, beginning with some $1,500 worth of a general assortment, among which were groceries and dry goods. He owned a good store and made considerable money. In 1849, he built an ashery, and began the manufacture of pearl-ash and scorched salts, buying his ashes from wherever they could be obtained, and paying at the rate of 6 cents per bushel for field ashes, and 8 cents for those burned in houses. As high as eight tons of pearl-ash were manufactured per annum, and a ready sale was found at Cleveland, at the rate of from $ i0 to $100 per ton. When ready, the ash *as loaded on wagons and conveyed . to market; the trip consuming several days. A considerable quantity of " scorchings" were also manufactured and sold in a similar manner for about $48 per ton. The ashery was conducted with fair profits until 1855, when the occupation was discontinued. The second frame building in the village was erected by Dr. Hickox very soon after the Phillips store had been built. This dwelling is located just north of the town hall. Mr. Moulton discontinued his store some five or six years after beginning. He lost considerable money through the influence of a man he had trusted, and thought best to sell his stock, which was accordingly done. After the lapse of many years, Mr. Moulton, though eighty years of age, is now in business in the village, with a stock of boots and shoes valued at $1,000. J. F. Badger purchased Mr. Moulton's stock in about 1853, but, after continuing the mercantile occupation for some two years, closed out his goods at auction. In about 1850, J. O. Simmonds brought several thousand dollars' worth of goods to the village. He kept an excellent store, and for several years commanded a lucrative patronage. It is said that he offered for sale one of the best stocks of goods ever at La Fayette. After a few years his stock and store privileges were purchased by William Kelsey, who, after conducting the business a number of years, was burned out. A Mr. Lampman had an interest in the store at the time it was burned. The building and goods in store were destroyed, and were almost a total loss. George Love sold goods, with varying success, until 1848. His father was also engaged for a short time in the mercantile pursuit in the village. In 1854, or 1855, Miller & Bowman brought in a stock of goods that had been purchased from a Mr. Wirtz, who had closed out his stock in some neighboring village. Their stock was increased, and, two years after coming to La Fayette, they moved into the corner store. Here they did a splendid business during the last war, but, at its close, when goods began to depreciate in value, they sold out to W. B. Chapman, who has conducted the business ever since. Mr. Simmonds engaged in manufacturing potash about a year before Mr. Moulton sold his ashery. He continued the manufacture about two years, but, finding the enterprise unprofitable, it was discontinued.

HISTORY OF MEDINA. COUNTY - 675

In autumn, 1847, Mr. Hickox built a saw-mill in the village. It was a large frame structure, located on the side of a steep bluff. The engine was placed in the lower story, together with the furnace, while the saw, an up-and-down one, occupied the upper story, into which the logs were rolled from the bluff. In 1852, R. F. Bissell bought the mill, and some six years later he sold to Carlton & Buchanan. In 1866, Winter Brothers bought the mill, and it is yet under their ownership and management. The mill, since it was first set in operation, has proved more valuable than any other ever in the township. It has turned out large quantities of excellent lumber, and, being operated by steam, it has been enabled to run during the entire year. In 1876, a small pattern of planing machinery was introduced in one apartment, but removed at the expiration of about two years. In 1879, Mr. Winter placed in one apartment set off on the lower story, a single set of stone for grinding grain. This small grist-mill is operated two days of the week. In about the year 1852, Mr. Hickox erected a large frame building near the saw mill, and began the manufacture of blinds, sash, doors, etc. This was quite an important industry, and it soon met with sufficient success to warrant its continuance. The enterprise was conducted with fair profits until 1870, when the building was fitted up and has since been used as a cheese-factory, under the ownership and management of Daniel Fellows and J. L. Wightman. In 1854, the township purchased the Congregational Church, and converted it into a town hall. Prior to that, elections and other town meetings were held in the church, a circumstance not at all relished by the members, who regarded the sanctity of their house violated on every election day. In 1879, the building, which had become quite old and rickety, was remodeled and enlarged. A thick coat of white paint has so altered its appearance that it is now one of the finest buildings in the village.

It was due to the influence of Hon. Earl Moulton, as much as to that of any other man, that the first post office was established in the village. In 1850, an application for the establishment of an office at La Fayette was properly signed, sealed and sent on to the Postmaster General, who gave the desired order. So little was to be paid the carrier that no one desired the position, which was destitute of any allurements except those of honor. Finally, more as a matter of necessity and accommodation than for any other reason, Mr. Moulton consented to carry the mail. In after years, when the value of having the office in stores became apparent, from the fact that trade was improved by those who went after their mail, a change came over the spirits of business men in the village. Every man was extremely anxious to be honored with the position of postmastership, and each was willing to sacrifice considerable to be carrier, in order to gain the coveted prize. Mr. Moulton received the appointment of first Postmaster. Three years later, it was transferred to Mr. Lampman, and soon afterward to another party. From that period until the present, the office has shot back and forth between the rivals for governmental position, like a shuttle across the threads of the warp. The office is not paying, except that it brings trade to the store wherein it is located. Dr. Hickox began the practice of medicine in the village soon after 1840. He was in partnership with Dr. A. W. Rawson. The latter became quite eminent in his profession, and was worked so hard by the sick and afflicted in the township as to injure his health. Himself and partner changed their location in 1850, and the village for several years following was without a follower of Esculapius. After an interval of a few years, Dr. Smith, of Medina, came to the village,

676 - HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY.

where he remained some two years. He was followed by Drs. Hudson, Foltz, Hoyt, Slutts and Parker. Unlike some other villages in the county, La Fayette has not seen its best days. Improvements are slowly going on, and the present condition of the village is not inferior to that of former years. The energy and business push in any locality depend upon the enterprising character of the citizens and their circumstances regarding finance. This view of the matter leads an observer to the conclusion, that, inasmuch as La Fayette is blessed with both those characteristics in a comparatively limited degree, it is true yet to a sufficient extent to warrant a continuance of growth and a revival of business pursuits discontinued in early years from a lack of patronage.

Wherever civilized men go, schools and churches are sure to follow. They are both the exponents and the originators of enlightened society and progressive intelligence. Destitute of social, educational and religious advantages, society would relapse steadily into barbarism, and a nomadic and practically solitary life would take the place of the. one now smiling with hope and promise. How quickly schools and churches dot the landscape when settlements begin to spring up, almost like magic, in the deserted depths of the forest! Each hill and vale becomes the site of an educational or a religious edifice, which, like the human heart, sends its rapid pulsations of wisdom and morals through every artery and vein of the social body. These privileges are the concomitants of early settlement in the back-woods. If pioneers are so few in numbers as to render the erection of a schoolhouse or a church unadvisable, they go to distant localities, where the desired opportunities may be obtained. Uusually, some six or eight years elapse after the first settlement, before the first schoolhouse is built. After that, the rapidity of their erection is proportioned to the rapidity of settlement. It is probable that the first schoolhouse erected in La Fayette Town. ship was a small, unpretending, round-log structure, built and located on the farm of Ephraim Harris, now owned by William Bleekman. It was built in about the year 1831, and was used for a combined schoolhouse, church and town hall. It is stated that the first township election was held in this building. It was built by all the settlers, who turned out and constructed it in one day. It was the understanding, when it was erected, that any and all religious denominations were to have the privilege of assembling there to worship God in their peculiar way; but, erelong, an unpleasant envy or rivalry was incited, which led to angry disputes and a sentiment of religious intolerance. Mr. Harris, upon whose land the building had been erected, had granted the lot to the use of the public so long as it was used for certain specified purposes, otherwise to revert to the owner. He, therefore, thought that he had as much right to direct the uses to which the building was devoted as any other man in the neighborhood. He was a Methodist, and saw with envy that the membership of the Disciple society, which assembled at the building, was outstripping that of his own denomination. Actuated by some sudden freak, he one day posted a notice near the church that, thenceforward, no horses must be hitched to his fence. To retaliate for this unsocial conduct, Mr. Doane, who was a Disciple, and who owned land across the road from the church, posted on his fence that all persons, without regard to the religious denomination to which they belonged, might have the privilege, at all times, of hitching to his posts. No serious outbreak occurred, and the building was used until about 1838. All facts concerning the schools taught here have faded from the minds of the old settlers. The name of that important personage, the first

HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY - 677

teacher, is lost in the gloom of the past. In reading the preceding pages, it will be seen that, between 1830 and 1835, large numbers of settlers came in and purchased farms. This rapid settlement led to the immediate erection of several schoolhouses in different parts of the township. The construction of churches was a few years later. In 1830, a log schoolhouse was built at the graveyard, about a mile southwest of the residence of N. G. Wightman. It is not remembered with certainty who was the first teacher, although a Miss Brown and a Mr. Gallup were among the first. The teacher received his pay by subscription, and boarded around. Who can grasp the meaning of the words " boarded around " without having passed through that ordeal in early years, when all the members of a family—some ten or a dozen—occupied the solitary small room of the log-cabin, in which were enacted all the social and domestic relations of the family? Into this room, the unfortunate pedagogue was thrust without ceremony, there to see strange sights and hear strange sounds. This building was used some four years, when a frame structure was erected to take its place. In 1853, the frame was destroyed by fire, and the remainder of the term in progress at the time was taught in a vacant dwelling near by. About a year later, the present frame schoolhouse was erected, nearly half a mile north of the cemetery. The year after the old log house was built at the cemetery, another log school building was erected near where the old grist-mill now stands. The first teacher in this house was Miss Sarah Chase, whose health failed during the progress of the term, and who was compelled to give up the school. The remainder of the term was taught by Miss Elmira Phinney. The school was taught during the winter months, and Miss Phinney was employed to teach a short term the following summer.

This schoolhouse was used until about 1850, when a school building was built at the Center, after which the old house was used for other purposes. A schoolhouse was built quite early in the southwestern part, in what was called the Chase neighborhood. Neither the year the school was taught nor the name of the first teacher is remembered. Miss Jemima Averill taught in this house in 1839. It is related that one of the early lady teachers severely whipped a large boy, who afterward became her husband. This lady could not have been Miss Averill. Miss Chase also taught at the Chase schoolhouse. It is probable that she was the first teacher. The old house was used a few years, and was afterward replaced, successively, at irregular intervals, by several others, each being an improvement on the former. The first school structure in the southeastern part was erected on the farm of John Lee, in 1837. The house was of round logs. Miss Delight Vincent, from Seville, was the first teacher. After she had begun to teach, it was discovered that she had no certificate, whereupon she was taken to the residence of Mr. Chapin, the School Examiner, to see if she was qualified to instruct children. She rode a horse belonging to Mr. Palmer, while that gentleman plodded along in the mud at her side. The lady succeeded in obtaining the desired certificate, and the school was continued. In 1843, a hewed log schoolhouse was erected where the old frame building now stands. It was used until about 1855, when the last-named building was built. In 1880, the finest school edifice in the township was erected, about forty rods west of the old one, at a cost of some $800. The Spitzer district was supplied with school advantages in 1836, since which time other houses have been built, to accord with the progressive condition of the neighborhood. About two years after the Harris log schoolhouse was destroyed,

678 - HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY.

another one was built on Mr. Bleekman's farm, a short distance west of his residence. This school building was attended by children living in the northwest corner, and also by those living north of the Center. The house was a frame, built of lumber sawed at one of the mills on Mill Creek, and costing at the rate of $5 per one thousand feet. It is said that more young men and women, who afterward taught school, were "graduated" at this house than at any other ever in the township. This house was used until about 1856, when a re-division into school districts made the erection of a schoolhouse in the northwestern part necessary. A school edifice was built in the northeastern part, at an early day. After a number of years it was burned, and has been succeeded by two others, the last being built about twenty years ago.

La Fayette Township has the reputation of having a greater number of churches. compared with the population, than any other township in the county. In 1834, Rev. Joel Goodell came from abroad by invitation, and preached in the Harris Schoolhouse, and on that day the first religious society—Congregational—was organized. Among the first members were the following persons: Abraham and Asenath Brooks, Ira and Fanny Brooks, Peter Brooks, Tabitha Brooks, Boswell Williams, Martha Lucas, Jeremiah and Susan Doty, Matthew and Eveline Leffingwell, George Wallace, Amelia Doty; Rozetta Doane, and Milo and Lucy Loomis. The society grew in membership and wealth, and, some eight or ten years after their organization, a small church was built, the township assisting in defraying the expense with the understanding that the church was to be used in which to hold township elections, etc. This occasioned considerable dissatisfaction, which continued to increase until 1854, when the Congregationalists built a large, fine frame church in the village at a cost of about $2,200. Here they have assembled since. In the year 1835, Rev. William Kellum, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, came to the township, where he preached and organized a class. The members assembled in schoolhouses and other buildings, until 1853, when they erected a frame church a short distance south of the Center, at a cost of $1,300. This building was occupied by the society until some four years ago, when they sold their church and purchased the one owned by the Baptists, the latter society having become so reduced in membership as to make the sale of their church advisable. The Christian Church was first organized in the year 1837, under the management of Rev. William Moody; and the society, at its beginning, met with considerable opposition from members of the religious organizations already established in the township. Among the first members were Earl Moulton. Azariah Foster. John Bowman and their families, and others. Notwithstanding the opposition to the organization of the society, the membership, in less than three months, was sixty, and this continued to increase. Rev. Mr. Moody was given charge of the society, and, under his energetic control, it grew in strength and grace. Services were held in schoolhouses until about the year 1853, when a large frame church was built at a cost of about $2,000. The society is doing well at present. The Baptist society was first instituted in about the year 1834. The members for many years were compelled to meet in dwellings and schoolhouses; but the society continued to grow steadily, until finally, in 1853, when the church-building mania swept over the township, a frame church was erected at a cost of $1,300. Here they continued to assemble until some four years ago, when they sold their church to the Methodists. Some thirty-six years ago the United Brethren or-

HISTORY OF MEDINA COUNTY - 679

ganized a society in the northwest part, and among the first members were the following: Henry Waltz, George Waltz, Robert Eakin, Jacob Miller, Daniel Dobson, W. A. Carlton, C. P. Lance, and their wives, besides several others. They gathered in schoolhouses until 1854, when their church was built at a cost of $1,000. Rev. Edwin Wood became the first Minister, and Henry Waltz was elected Class-leader. The first Deacons were George Waltz, C. B. Lance and W. A. Carlton. The society has a present membership of eighty. An Old School Presbyterian Society was instituted in 1850, in the southeast part, by Rev. Barnum Noyes. The first four Deacons were Henry Shane, Thomas Day, William Patton and John Lea. The society has a small church in the eastern part. A United Brethren class was early organized in the same locality, and, though it disbanded at one time, yet it was afterward revived, and is now in prosperous condition. In 1860, no church society in the township had a membership less than fifty-five. This speaks well for the religious interest in La Fayette.