700 - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY. which he continued three years, meeting with good success. He then sold out his interest and was engaged in farming and dealing in stock one year. The following year he clerked in the store at Albany, and the next year went to Kansas, where he purchased a ranch and was engaged in sheep-raising until the following January. He returned to Ohio, May 1, 1880, and built the store which he now occupies, and filled it with a line of general merchandise. He was married May 10, 1874, to Miss Ollie Whaley, daughter of John Whaley, a resident of Lee Township. They have one son—Arthur B. CHAPTER XXV. BERN TOWNSHIP-FERTILE SOIL, MINERAL WEALTH, MATERIAL PROGRESS, LOCATION AND EXTENT OF DOMAIN-METES AND BOUNDS-FROM THE RECORDS-LIST OF TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS-SOME OF THE EARLY SETTLERS-MINERAL DEPOSITS-TRANSPORTATION ONLY NEEDED CHURCHES-CEMETERIES-SCHOOLS AND MATERIAL PROSPERITY - BIOGRAPHICAL. ITS LOCATION AND EXTENT OF DOMAIN. This township lies in the extreme northeast corner of Athens County, is six miles from north to south, and five miles from east to west, and contains only thirty sections of land, or 19,200 acres, the eastern tier of sections having been set off to Washington County in 1807. The general nature of the county is hilly and broken, yet a large portion of its land cannot be surpassed for fertility. It is well watered by Federal. Creek and Sharp's Fork, both of which traverse it from north to south, and there are several smaller creeks which flow into them. Besides these there are innumerable springs all over the township. The township has been exclusively settled by farmers and stock-raisers, there being no town or village within its borders, and as yet it has no postoffice--probably accounted for by its ample accommodations through postoffices in its borders. METES AND BOUNDS. It is bounded on the north by Morgan County, on the east by Washington County, on the south by Rome Township, and on the west by Ames. It was originally included in Ames Township and was not separately organized till 1828, consequently much of its early history will be found in connection with that township. FROM THE RECORDS. Bern was set off from Ames Township by the county commissioners March 3, 1828, and the electors were directed to meet at  - (701) - 702 - HISTORY OF HOOKING VALLEY. the house of John Henry on the first Monday of April to elect township officers. The following is a list of its officers from its organization to the present date inclusive: TRUSTEES. 1828-'30, John Henry, James Dickey, John Wickham; 1831-'3, John Henry, David James, Jeffrey Buchanan; 1834, Dyar Selby, Sen., John Wickham, J. Dickey ; 1835, W. J. Brown, John Wickham, J. Dickey ; 1836, W. J. Brown, David James, J. Dickey; 1837, Matthew Henry, David James, J. Dickey; 1838, Matthew Henry, David James, Win. J. Brown; 1839, Matthew Henry, James Dickey, Wm. J. Brown; 1840, J. E. Yore, James Dickey, John Work; 1841, David James, Thornton Swart, John Work; 1842, David James, James Dickey, Dyar Selby, Jr.; 1843, Joseph McCune, James Dickey, Dyar Selby, Jr.; 1844, Joseph McCune, James Dickey, Reuben Hague; 1845, David James, James Dickey, Reuben Hague; 1846, Jesse Carr, Dyar Selby, John Work; 1847, David Colvin,Robert Henry, Win . Rardin; 1848, David Colvin, Levi Ellis, Wm. Rardin; 1849, David Colvin, Edward Ginn, Calvin Tracy; 1850, James Henry, Edward Ginn, J. E. Yore; 1851, Lewis Dille, Reuben Hague, Calvin Tracy; 1852, Lewis Dille, Edward Ginn, Calvin Tracy; 1853, Andrew Ogg, P. W. Larnpson, J. E. Vore ; 1854, Andrew Ogg, J. S. King, J. E. Yore; 1855, H. C. Selby, J. S. King, John Whaley; 1856, H. C. Selby, P. W. Lamp-son, David Gilchrist; 1857, David James, Edward Ginn, David Gilchrist; 1858, Levi Rardin, J. M. Smith, George Wyatt ; 1859, Clark Dodds, W. Endicott, George Wyatt ; 1860, Dyar Selby, W. Endicott, H. T. McCune; 1861, H. C. Selby, W. Endicott, W. W. Wickham ; 1862, Dyar Selby, Thomas Dickson, W. W. Wickham ; 1863, E. Hanson, Thomas Dickson, W. W. Wickham ; 1864, 0. Gifford, Thomas Dickson, W. Endicott; 1865, Levi Rardin, Thomas Dickson, W. Endicott ; 1866, H. C. Selby, Thomas Dickson, W. Endicott ; 1867, H. C. Selby, L. Driggs, Elijah Hanson; 1868, S. J. Wells, Elijah White, Elijah Hanson; 1869, Elijah Hanson, D. W. Lambert, George E. Henry; 1870, Elijah Hanson, W. M. Marquis, D. W. Lambert ; 1871, W. Endicott, D. W. Lambert, Win. M. Marquis ; 1872, W. Endicott, H. T. McCune, Win. M. Marquis; 1873, Charles Henry, G. H. Moore, G. W. Armstrong ; 1874-'5, Henry Broadwell, George H. Moore, G. W. Armstrong; 1876, Henry Broadwell, Wm. M. Marquis, G. W. HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY - 703 Armstrong; 1877, A. C. Smith, Wm. M. Marquis, Abner Lambert ; 1878, A. C. Smith, John Marquis, Abner Lambert ; 1879, A. C. Smith, Abner Lambert, H. Broadwell; 1880, A. C. Smith, Charles Henry, Elijah Hanson; 1881, Charles Henry, C. B. McCune, Elijah Hanson; 1882, C. B. McCune, J. R. Wickham, Daniel Parkins, Jr.; 1883, J. R. Wickham, Isaac Armstrong, J. A. Marquis. JUSTICES OF THE PEACE. 1828, Thaddeus Crippen, Wm. T. Brown; 1831, Matthew Henry, Wm. T. Brown; 1834, Levi Ellis, Robert Henry; 1836, David Dille; 1837, Robert Henry; 1839, Dyan Selby; 1840, Robert Work; 1841, Calvin Tracy; 1843, John Brawley, P. W. Lampson; 1844, Dyar Selby, Jr.; 1846, John Brawley; 1847-'50, Dyar Selby, Jr.; 1852, Philip W. Lampson; 1853, Thomas Bruce; 1854, Elijah Hanson; 1855, P. W. Lampson; 1857, Elijah Hanson; 1858, P. W. Lampson; 1859, Robert Henry (refused to qualify), Seaborn Carr; 1860, Aaron Smith ; 1862, Seaborn Carr; 1863, Watson Harris; 1864, W. W. Wickham ; 1866, Watson Harris; 1867, Edwin T. Glazier ; 1868, Hiram C. Selby; 1870, Geo. E. Henry ; 1871, H. C. Selby; 1873, Geo. E. Henry; 1874, B. C. Pickering ;. 1876, Geo. E. Henry; 1877, B. C. Pickering; 1879, Geo. E. Henry; 1880, H. C. Selby ; 1882, Geo. E. Henry ; 1883, Elijah Hanson. D. L. Dille has been Township Clerk and Richard Edgerton Treasurer for the past fifteen years. EARLY SETTLERS. Among the early settlers of Bern Township were: John Henry, a native of Ireland, who came here in 1817; John Wickham, a native of Vermont; David and Daniel James, and Philip W. Lampson settled here in 1820; James Dickey, of Pennsylvania, and of Irish descent, in 1821. These with a few others, perhaps, formed, the nucleus of what is now a prosperous and enterprising community, and by hard labor, undergoing trials which the present generation know nothing of; developed what was then a dense wilderness, turning it from its natural state into luxuriant fields of grain and grass, dotted over with pleasant residences and substantial farm buildings. MINERAL DEPOSITS. There are valuable deposits of coal and iron in the township, and when properly developed will become a source of great wealth. 704 - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY. A railroad by which the coal could be cheaply transported to the different markets is all that is needed to make Bern Township one of the busy coal fields of the Hocking Valley. Such a road is in anticipation, and has been surveyed, running through the township from north to south along the valley of Federal Creek and Sharp's Fork of the same. There also exists an excellent quality of salt water, and in such quantities as would justify its being worked. CHURCHES. Methodist Protestant Valley Church, was organized in 1856 with seven charter members, to-wit: John Whaley, Lucy Whaley, David Whaley, Sarah Whaley, Watson Harris, Nancy Harris and Sarah Vanzant. At its organization the Rev. Henry Lawson became its first Pastor. The .house in which they worship was built the same year of their organization, and the church has been blessed with much good and a large membership, it numbering at one time eighty-six members. Its present membership is twenty-one, and the pastorate is under the charge of Rev. Luman. The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1856 at the Valley Church, and 'its original .members, twenty in number, among whom were: Rev. Oren Gifford, Olive Gifford, Ruby Gifford, Peter Ingle and wife, David Gilchrist and wife. Its first Pastor was Elder Clark and its present Pastor the Rev. D. W. Windsor. It has now a membership of about forty, which includes some of the best citizens of the township. United Brethren—Mt. Hermon.—This church was organized in 1857. There was formerly an organization of this denomination, but there are only three members left who formed the first members of Mt. Hermon church—William Rardin, Rebecca Hanson and Elizabeth Work. The church was built in 1858 and has now a membership of about forty, with Rev. William Burnsworth as its Pastor. Westland Church, was organized in 1877 with Rev. E. Robinson for its first Pastor and about twenty members, among which were: J. Brille and wife, E. White and wife, Robert Brille, Sarah Vanzant, M. Watson and Sarah Funk. Its present membership is about twenty-five, and its Pastor, Rev. Wm. Burnsworth. Mt. Carmel Church was organized by Rev. Phillips, its first Pastor, in 1881, with ten members, as follows: Lewis Dille and wife, Albert'Brooks and wife, F. W. Taylor and wife, Wm. Wanless and HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY -705 wife, Joseph Harris and Clyde Harris. Its present Pastor is Rev. Wm. Burnsworth. The Universalists organized a church in 1860, and among the first members were: John Wickham and wife, T. Crippen and wife, Warner Wickham and wife, Mrs. Oldcraft and Mrs. Ogg. Its first pastor was Rev. F. Jones, and the pulpit is now occasionally supplied by Rev. McMasters, of Marietta. SCHOOLS. There are nine school-houses in this township and the report for winter of 1882-1883 shows a full average attendance and fair progress in all of them. The example set by the citizens of Athens has become infectious and educational progress has kept step with advanced civilization. This has made the people intelligent and progressive, and material prosperity has been the result. If Athens County has shown a great many educated and talented men who have made history, it can be traced to the fact that one of the pillars upon which was reared a temple of progressive people was built upon an educational foundation. BIOGRAPHICAL. James Carter, Homer Township, Morgan County, was born in Bedford County, Penn., July 25, 1812, a son of George Carter, who came to Athens County, Ohio, in 1815 and located in Ames Township, where our subject was reared and educated, living with his parents until he grew to manhood. He was married in 1836 to Elizabeth McDonnald. By this union there Were nine children, only three of whom are living—Melissa, George and Elizabeth. he and his wife are members of the Church of the Disciples. He is an ardent worker in the temperance cause. Richard Edgerton, was born in Belmont County, Ohio, April 7, 1827, and came with his father's family to Athens County and settled in Marion Township, now Morgan County, in 1835, where he was reared and educated, residing with his parents until he was twenty-one years of age. He was married April 20, 1848, to Tama Vernon, a, native of Belmont County. Eight children were born to them, only six now living—William (deceased), Jeptha H., Mary Z., Sarah P., John C., Ruth A., Edward R. (deceased), James A. Mr. Edgerton has always been engaged in farming, but in connection with his farming pursuits, from 1868 to - 45 - 706 - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY. 1876, he engaged in the mercantile business at Piantsville. His farm contains 400 acres of good land where he makes a specialty of raising high grades of live stock. He has been elected by the people to many local offices of trust and responsibility. He and his wife are members of the society of Friends. Richard Elliott was born in Highlandshire, Scotland, in 1831, and came with his father's family to the United States in 1837, and settled on a farm in Bern Township, where he was reared and educated. He was married Sept. 18, 1857, to Miss Margaret J. Barton, a native of Athens County. They have eight children--John B., Alphia, Mary J., Charles, George, Eva, William and Lewis. He purchased his present farm in 1859, where he has since resided. It contains 150 acres of good land under a high state of cultivation. Lorenzo Ellis was born in Morgan County, Ohio, July 15, 1819, the oldest son of Levi Ellis, who came to Ohio from Vermont about the year 1815, and in 1843 came to Bern Township, Athens County. He afterward moved to Chesterfield, where ha passed the remainder of his days. His wife, Lucy Gibson, was also a native of Vermont. They were the parents of seven children, six of whom are still living. They were active and consistent members of the Baptist church for many years. Our subject was reared on a farm and received his education in the subscription schools. He was married March 17, 1851, to Miss Mahalia Dorithy, a native of Morgan County, Ohio. They have two daughters--Emma J. and Lucy A. Mr. Ellis purchased his present farm in 1865, containing 245 acres of improved land. He and his wife are members of the Christian church. Washington Endicott was born in Belmont County, Ohio, a son of Charles Endicott, of Pennsylvania, and of English descent.. He was born March 26, 1821. His father died when he was thirteen years of age, and he went to live with an elder brother until he was seventeen, after which he worked by the month until he was twenty-two. He was married Nov. 17, 1812, to Susana Hanson, a native of North Carolina. To them were born nine children, only seven now living—Isaac N., Mary M., Hannah I., Charles E., Samuel M., Washington J. and Eliza M. John W. and Elijah H. are deceased. After his marriage he rented land and followed the avocation of farming, and by strict attention to his farming pursuits he has been highly successful, and gave his children a good and practical education, and fitted them for useful citizens. In HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY - 707 1855 he came to Bern Township, Athens County, where he has since resided. He has a fine farm with all the modern improvements. He has been elected by the people to nearly all the local offices of trust and responsibility. Edwin F. Glazier was born in Bern Township, Athens County, June 30, 1842, where he was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. At the breaking out of the late civil war he enlisted in Company B, Fifty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and participated in many hard-fought battles. In 1863 his term of enlistment expired, and he re-enlisted and served until the close of the war, and was mustered out of the service; returned to the home of his birth and for a time attended school, after which he engaged in farming, which he has since followed. In connection with his farming pursuits in 1875 be purchased the store at Big Run, Ohio, and engaged in the mercantile business for about four years, when he sold out and returned to his farm. He was married Oct. 19, 1870, to Hannah N. Greenwait, of Washington County. They have three children—Aria M., Effa B. and William E. F. W. R. Goddard was born in Washington County, Ohio, March 24, 1849. He was reared on a farm, and received his early education in the common schools, and spent three years at the Marietta College, after which he engaged in teaching school about three years. In the latter year he was elected to the office of County Treasurer of Washington County. He was first married, May 8, 1878, to Annie Black, of Washington County. They had two children--Blanche and Charles. His wife died Feb. 23, 1881. Ile was again married, Sept. 14, 1882, to Fanny E. Henry, a daughter of Charles and Fanny (Dean) Henry, of Bern Township, Athens County, Ohio. He has a fine farm of 232 acres of good land on Federal Creek. His wife is a member of the Presbyterian church at Amesville. He is a member of the I. 0. 0. F., Palmer Lodge, No. 351. Charles Henry was born in Bern Township, Athens County, Ohio, April 18, 1821, son of John and Margaret Henry, who settled on the farm where our subject now lives, in 1817. He received his education in the schools at Amesville. He has always lived on the old homestead and cared for his parents in their old age. He was married Sept. 18, 1848, to Fanny M., daughter of Nathan and Fanny Dean, of Ames Township, Athens County. They have had five children—Charles E., Nathan Wm., Fanny E., Carlos D., Augusta M. (deceased). He has given his children 708 - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY. upon their reaching their majority each a good farm. The homestead contains 360 acres of land, and is one of the finest in the county. He has a fine residence and large and commodious barns and stables. He has a large and beautiful fish pond, well-stocked with the choice varieties of fish. Mr. Henry has always led a quiet life, never aspiring to publicity, but in 1881 he was persuaded by his friends to accept their proffered suffrage, and was elected by a large majority to the office of Director of the Athens County Infirmary, which he has filled with honor to himself and credit to his constituents. David Henry was born in Bern Township, Athens County, Jan19, 1827, son of John and Margaret Henry, where he was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. He was united in marriage April 11, 1850, to Miss Margaret A. Owen, of Ames Township, Athens County. They are the parents of eight children, seven only now living—Florina, Marcela, Ray, Jennie, Mary, Nora, George B. and Bradford. He has a fine farm containing 160 acres of land under a high state of cultivation. George E . Henry, the youngest son of Robert and Lavina (Glazier) Henry, was born in Bern Township, on the same farm and in the house where he has since resided, Aug. 15, 1841. Received his early education in the common schools of his native township, finishing in the Ohio University, at Athens. His youth was spent in assisting his father on the farm and attending school. After leaving school he engaged in teaching until the breaking out of the late civil war, when he enlisted, June 24, 1863, in Battery K, Second Ohio Volunteer Heavy Artillery, and was appointed Quartermaster-Sergeant, but served on detached duty as clerk in the office of Provost Marshal and Provost-Marshal Generals at Knoxville, Tenn., until March, 1865, when he was appointed Hospital Steward at Knoxville, and served in that capacity until Aug. 12, 1865, when he Was mustered out of the service, after which he returned to his home in Bern Township and took charge of the farm where he has since resided. After serving in various township offices he was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace, serving since 1870. He was united in marriage, Sept. 18, 1872, to Sarah C. Demming, daughter of Daniel and Louisa (Curtis) Demming, born in Washington County, July 15, 1850. They have one son—Heber Homer, born July 13, 1877. Mrs. Henry is a member of the Presbyterian church at Amesville. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Amesville Lodge, No. 278. he is also a member of Columbus Golden Post, No. 89, G. A. R. HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY - 709 Captain Robert Henry, deceased, was born of Irish parents in Chester County, Penn., Dec. 14, 1797, and came with his father's family to Newport, Washington Co., Ohio, in 1801, and five years later remove I to Warren, four miles below Harmer, and in the spring of 1817 came to Athens County, and located in what is now Bern Township, where he assisted his father in clearing his land and opening up their frontier home. Having more than an ordinary education he engaged in the winter in teaching school, working on his farm in the summer. He was united in marriage to Lavina Glazier, Nov. 30, 1826, by Judge George Walker. He immediately moved on his farm, where he continued to reside until his death, a period of over fifty-four years. During his life he held several local offices of trust and responsibility. He was naturally of a retiring disposition, which prompted him to refuse places of this kind unless tendered him under circumstances that left no doubt in his mind that it was the earnest wish of his friends that he should accept their proffered suffrage. In 1826 he was commissioned by Governor Jeremiah Morrow Captain of the Second Light Infantry Company, First Brigade, Third Division, Militia of Ohio, which office he held until 1830, when he resigned his commission. In the fall of 1829 he received the appointment as Postmaster at. Amesville, being the second Postmaster in that township. In 1834 he was elected Justice of the Peace, which office he held for several years. Mr. Henry and his wife were ardent workers in the cause of Christianity, and united with the Presbyterian church at Amesville, at the time of its organization in 1832. He was very affable, courteous and gentlemanly in his intercourse with mankind, and received, as he deserved, the confidence and respect of all who knew him. His wife died Oct. 31, 1857, and he, Jan. 5, 1881, leaving four sons and two daughters and a large number of relatives and friends to mourn his loss. Mathew Henry, deceased, was born in Ireland in October, 1792, a son of John and Rachel Henry, and when he was about six months of age he came with his parents to the United States, and located in Chester County, Penn., where he lived until 1801, when they removed to Ohio and settled in Newport, Washington County. Five years later they moved to Warren, where they resided until August, 1817, when they came to Athens County, settling in what is now Bern Township, where he spent the remainder of his days. He was married Aug. 16, 1817, to Lavinia Proctor, 710 - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY. who was born in Danvers, Essex Co., Mass., April 12, 1793, and came with her parents to the then Northwestern Territory in the same year and located in Washington County, where she was reared and educated. After their marriage they settled on a part of the tract of land previously purchased by his father, where he set to work clearing his land and improving his home. He followed the avocation of a farmer until his death, and was highly successful. Although he never aspired to publicity he accepted the proffered suffrage of his friends and was elected to many local offices of trust and responsibility, having served as Township Trustee for several years, and Justice of the Peace several years. Mr. Henry and his wife were active members of the Presbyterian church, having joined at the time of the organization in 1832. They were the parents of eight children, five still living. Mr. Henry died Mar& 17, 1865, at the advanced age of seventy-three years, having retained the mental and physical vigor of his youth to a remarkable degree. Nov. 23, 1882, his wife followed, at the age of eighty-seven years. Lorenzo Lovell was born in Morgan County, Ohio, July 13, 1840, a son of Thomas R. and a grandson of Thomas S. Lovell, who was prominently identified with the pioneers of the county. Our subject was reared on a farm and received his education in the common schools. In 1861 he went to California and engaged in the lumber business in which he met with good success, and returned to Athens County in 1864. He was married Feb. 7, 1867, to Hannah T. Hopkins, of Morgan County. They have three children—Thomas S., Hannah S., George O. After his return from California he engaged in farming, and raising and dealing in livestock. His farm contains 268 acres of good land under a high state of cultivation. Charles B. McCune, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Bern Township, Oct. 14, 1843, the fourth son of Samuel McCune. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools, living with his parents until the breaking out of the late civil war, when he enlisted, in September, 1862, in Company I, Seventh Ohio Cavalry. He participated in many hard-fought battles; among some of the more prominent were the siege of Atlanta and Nashville.. Just after they raised the siege of Atlanta he was taken prisoner. While out gathering feed for the horses the enemy made a charge and took several, and while going toward the enemy's lines our subject started for the woods and hid behind the trees and thus HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY - 711 escaped, walking six miles without shoe, hat or coat. He was the only one who escaped. Three others afterward died in Andersonville Prison. He served for three years and at no time was he unable to attend to his duty, although once sent to the hospital but returned to his regiment without orders. He was discharged July 4, 1865, and returned to his native home, where he engaged in the avocation of farming, which he has since followed. He was married Nov. 29, 1871, to Nannie Marquis, a daughter of William M. Marquis, a native of Noble County. They have two children—Bernice G. and Effie I. He first purchased his present farm in 1871 containing fifty acres, and by strict attention to his pursuits he has added to it from time to time until he has a fine farm of 110 acres of good land under a high state of cultivation, where in 1880 he erected a fine residence. Aaron Ogg was born in Athens County, Ohio, Oct. 5, 1826. He was reared on a farm and edu cated in the common schools. Tie was married Sept. 17, 1851, to Theodosia Wickham. Ten children were born to them—William W., Izola, Clarinda, Lucy, Elmer E., Arthur, Lydia, Lindley, Leonard and Charles. Mr. Ogg followed the avocation of farming until the breaking out of the late civil war, when he was among the first to answer to the call for men, and enlisted in August, 1861, in Company B, Fifty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He .engaged in the battle of Pittsburg Landing, when he was taken seriously ill and was unable for active duty, and received an honorable discharge in November, 1862, and returned to his home in Athens County and again engaged in farming. He now has a farm of seventy-five acres of good land. He is a member of the Columbus Golden Post, G. A. R, and also a member of A. F. & A. M., Amesville Lodge, No. 278. Andrew J. Ogg, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Athens County, Oct. 11, 1827, a son of Andrew and Lucy (Wright) Ogg, who came to Athens County among the first settlers. Our subject was reared on a farm. When he was about sixteen years of age he began work for himself, working out by the month for John Brown and George Walker for a period of ten years. About 1847 he purchased forty acres of land in Bern Township. He was married March 22, 1855, to Elizabeth Rathburn. Four sons and one daughter were born to them—David L., Sally A., Andrew L., William N. and Silas F. Mr. Ogg is a self-made man, having accumulated a large property by his own exertion and industry. 712 - HISTORY OF HOOKING VALLEY. He has a farm of 400 acres of good land, where he makes a specialty of growing live stock. About 1857 he moved to Morgan County where he resided for about sixteen years, after which he returned to his native county where he has since resided. He is a member of A. F. & A. M., Amesville Lodge, No. 278. Warren W. Selby was born in Washington County, Ohio, Dec. 7, 1822, a son of D. Selby. When our subject was about twelve years of age he came with his parents to Bern Township, Athens County, and settled on the farm where he has since lived. he re ceived his education in the common schools. He was married Jan. 1, 1850, to Emily Garratson, a native of Jefferson County, but a resident of Morgan County. Six children were born to them—Ida E., Susan, J. W., F. M., A. D. and Metta A. Mr. Selby's home contains 300 acres of improved land with a fine brick residence erected in 1867, which with its surroundings has no superior in the township. He has one of the finest orchards in the county. Ezra H. Wolfe was born in Ames Township, Athens Co., Ohio, Dec. 15, 1833, a son of George P. and Eliza (Walker) Wolfe. He was reared on a farm, and received his education in the common schools, residing with his parents until he was twenty-three years of age, when he went to Lee County, Ill., and remained two years. He was married Feb. 26, 1860, to Miss Polly Swett, daughter of Johnson and Polly.Swett, who were among the pioneers of this county. By this union there are five children—Addle A., Lolie B., A. O., Lizzie L. and Frank C. After his marriage he remained on the old homestead for about three years, when he purchased a farm of sixty-six acres, which he added to from time to time until it contained 100 acres of improved land, where he resided seven years. In 1871 he purchased the farm. Where he now lives, in Homer Township, Morgan County. It contains 150 acres of good land, under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Wolfe takes great interest in all the political questions of the day, and casts hi suffrage with the Republican play. Joseph H. Wolfe, Homer Township, Morgan County, was born Porter County, Ind., Jan. 22, 1835, a son of Frederick and Margret Wolfe, who were natives of Ames Township, Athens Count When he was two years of age he came to Athens County with his parents, where he was reared on a farm and received his early education in the common schools, completing it in the Normal School at Albany, Lee Township, Athens Co., Ohio. After leaving HISTORY OF HOOKING VALLEY - 713 school he engaged in fanning in the summer and teaching school in winter for about six years. He was married Nov. 1, 1855, to Nancy A. Sayers, a daughter of Stacy Sayers, who came to Athens County from Marshall, W. Va., in 1835. They have five children —Stacy F., Lona H., Nina R., Margie C. and Ettie J. Mr. Wolfe is the owner of 320 acres of improved land. He has been elected to nearly all the local offices in the township. Mrs. Wolfe is a member of the Church of the Disciples. He is a member of A. F. & A. M., Bishopville Lodge. George Wyatt, deceased, was born in Ames Township, Athens Co., Ohio, Aug. 21, 1821, the oldest child of John and Emily (Carpenter) Wyatt, and a grandson of Joshua Wyatt, who was prominently identified with the first settlers of Ames Township. He was reared on a farm and received his education in the schools at Amesville, and by strict attention to his study he obtained more than an ordinary education. He was married Dec. 20, 1842, to Miss Drusilla Tedrow, a daughter of Jacob and Mary Tedrow, who were among the pioneers of Rome Township. They had ten children, only eight now living—Emily (deceased), Julia A., Chauncey P., Mary J., George E., Nettie L. (deceased), Charles S., Genevieve A., Leonna D., Byron W. Mr. Wyatt came on the farm where his family now lives immediately after his marriage. He and his wife have been members of the Presbyterian church since 1842. Mr. Wyatt was foremost in lending his influence and donating from his own liberal means to every laudable enterprise that would be of interest and benefit to the county in which he resided. Besides caring well for those of his own household, he was not unmindful of the wants of others, and was the means of relieving the wants of many. He died April 9, 1873. CHAPTER XXVI. CARTHAGE TOWNSHIP—THE BEAUTY OF ITS LANDSCAPE. THE ACT WHICH ORGANIZED IT -TAKEN FROM TROY TOWNSHIP IN NOVEMBER, 1819—AREA—FACTS AND FICTION COMBINED-LOST RECORDS-OFFICE HOLDERS-THE PIONEERS-A PANTHER'S FAMILIARITY-FIRST MILL-FIRST POSTMASTER—POPULATION BY DECADES-GROWTH SLOW, BUT SUBSTANTIAL-CHURCHES AND SCHOOLS-BIOGRAPHICAL. THE ACT THAT MADE IT. Carthage Township was not organ'zed until 1819, the territory being taken from Troy, and in the records of the County Commissioners the following resolution appears: "Nov. 10, 1819—Resolved, That all that part of the township of Troy included in township 5, range 12, and the east half of township 4, range 13, be a separate township by the name of Carthage." The township is six miles square and has 23,040 acres of beautiful and fruitful land. It is bounded on the north by Rome Township, on the east by Troy Township, on the south by Meigs County, and on the west by Lodi Township, and lies in the south tier of sections, and second from the eastern boundary line of the county. It is watered by the east branch of Shade Creek and several others of less magnitude. The surface is somewhat hilly, but of a less rough and rugged nature than some of her sister townships. The soil is of such a nature as to yield to the husbandman excellent crops of grain, and its peen hilltops afford the best of grazing, which is one of the essentials to successful stock-raising. Thus it is found that land and water, hill and valley, are so united in this township as to combine all the essentials which go to make farming a success. It is therefore not surprising that Carthage Township, with its rich virgin soil, should entice the early settler to locate here and secure the rich lands which produce such abundant returns for the labor expended. The emigrant " Sought fresh fountains in a foreign soil, The pleasures less'ning the attending toil."  - (714) - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY - 715 When we take the beauty of its surroundings and the fertility of its soil, there is little more to wish for to the farmer or stock-raiser of Carthage Township, and he would indeed be hard to please if, in choosing an agricultural life, the lands of this township did not fill the full meed of his desire. Upon the organization of the township the inhabitants were directed to meet on a specified day arid elect township officers. The records of the township prior to 1855 have been lost, consequently no list of its early officeholders can be given, but among the first Trustees of the township were Stephen Buckingham, Joseph Guthrie, Francis Caldwell, Alex. Caldwell, Moses Elliott and B. B. Lottridge. The first Justice of the Peace in the township was Milton Buckingham, and Joseph Guthrie and Francis Caldwell were among the earliest, also, who held that office. FIRST SETTLERS. The first known white settler of Carthage Township was Ashabel Cooley, Sr., who came from near Springfield, Mass., and after traversing the dense wilderness between Muskingum and the Hocking, settled in this township in the year 1799, and with the aid of his grown-up sons soon prepared a home. He was a man possessed of great native mental vigor, shrewd business tact, and by his industry and integrity did much toward the advancement of civilization, and for many years held offices of trust in both township and county. In 1800 came Abram Frost who, with his large family, settled in this township, and in 1801 were joined by Ebenezer Buckingham, Sr., and his brother Stephen. In 1805 came Bernardus B. Lottridge, a native of New York. At the time of his coming there was not more than a dozen inhabitants in the township, and the forests were full of their native denizens. A large panther walked into the cabin of Mr. Lottridge one evening and stood before the fire, whereupon Mr. Lottridge seized a large butcher knife and would have attacked him had it not been for the entreaties of his wife; her screams frightened the animal and it soon darted through the door and beat a hasty retreat. These early settlers were soon followed by Alex. Caldwell, William Jeffers, Moses, John and James Elliott, James Baker and many others, and the township became generally settled at an early day, all its parts having some attraction for the pioneer. 716 - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY. FIRST MILL. The first grist-mill in the township was built by Joseph Guthrie, in 1820, on his farm near the southeast corner of section 6. The power was derived from a small stream which took its name from him and is still known by the name of Guthrie's Creek. Since that time there has been several saw and grist-mills erected in the township, but they have all gone out of existence. There are none in the township at the present time worthy of mention. The business of Carthage is solely agricultural and there is not a village within its limits. It has one postoffice, established in 1851, called Lottridge postoffice from its being located in the Lottridge neighborhood. The first Postmaster was Edward Lawrence, who retained the position for many years. POPULATION. As before stated, the township was not organized until 1819, and in 1820 the population was 320. During the following ten years it only increased seventy-five in its population, in 1830 being 395. The next decade it nearly doubled, as the census report of 1840 showed a population of 734. In 1850 it was 1,087; in 1860, 1,127 while in 1870 it was 1,272, and in 1880 it had reached 1,308. It will be seen by these figures that the growth of the population in Carthage Township has been slow, even below what should have been its natural growth, but it has an enterprising, thrifty class o: people which gives stability to the community in which they an located. There has been nothing of importance to disturb the serenity of the people of this township for many years. With steady means of population the area of cultivated lands has be come more extended, and with it those great additions to the progress of civilization and Christianity, schools and churches. CHURCHES. Carthage Township has five churches; as follows: Two Methodist, one Presbyterian, one United Brethren and one Christian The Methodists were the pioneers of this township, their society being organized as early as 1812. One of their churches is locate( in the extreme western part of the township, on section 3t and the other on fraction 2, near the residence of John Las rence. The Christian church was the next to organize and is lo- HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY - 717 cated in the southern part of the township on section 19. The organization was effected in about 1835, and the United Brethren in bout 1840. The Presbyterian Church was organized in 1850 and they have a very neat church located on section 23. The churches in this ownship are all in a flourishing condition and only need energetic work to extend their usefulness and the greater exercise of their influence for good. With their surroundings they have a splendid field for labor, and should be fully used to extend their power and for the good of the churches and for the glory of God. SCHOOLS. The schools of Carthage Township number nine and are all in a condition of progressiveness. In fact, if there is any one thing that has shown the sound judgment of the people of this township it has been their determined and persevering effort in the cause of education. BIOGRAPHICAL. John Barnhill, born in Jefferson County, Ohio, June 26, 1828, is a son of Robert Barnhill, a native of Ireland, who came to America when quite young. When he was seven years old his parents removed to Coshocton County, where he lived till twenty-one years of age. He then came to Athens County and lived a short time, and then went to Wayne County, Ill., returning after three years to Carthage. He was married Feb. 17, 1859, to Margaret Swiss, of Carthage Township. They have eight children—Elizabeth C., John W., Burgett, Louisa J., Rosilla, Sarah E., Samuel and Catharine F. Mr. Barnhill received but a limited education in his youth, but by careful observation and study he has acquired a good practical education. He is giving his children the best advantages that the county affords, that they may be fitted to fill any station in life. C. Bason, born in Coshocton County, Ohio, Dec. 10, 1834, is a son of Joseph Bason, a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1805, now residing with his son. When he was four years of age his parents moved to Washington County, where he was reared and educated. In 1855 he came to Carthage Township, and in 1869 bought the farm where he now resides. He has 200 acres of well-improved land, with a fine residence and farm buildings. He was married 718 - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY. March 15,1860, to Elizabeth J. Alger. Four children were born to them—Joseph, J. M., Esther A. and Sarah Ellen. Mrs. &son:, died May 27, 1867. Politically Mr. Bason is a Republican. George Blazer, son of David and Mary (Davis) Blazer, was born in Washington County, Pa., April 16, 1801. When twenty-one years of age he went to Columbiana County, Ohio, and engaged in coal-mining and in salt works eight years. In October, 1836, he came to Athens County, and settled on what is now known as the old Burson farm. He was for many years engaged in buying and selling land, so has changed his residence a number of times, though the most of the time he has lived in Lodi Township. Since 1878 he has made his home with his son-in-law, William Day. Aug. 12, 1825, he married Susan Moore. They reared a family of eleven children—Cyrus, David, Hiram, James, Mordecai, William, Charles, Harriet, Mary, Sarah A. and Joanna. Six sons and two sons-in-law were in the Union army during the war of the Rebellion. Joseph Caldwell, deceased, was a native of Pennsylvania, and settled in Carthage Township in an early day, where he improved a good farm. He married Mary Fish, a native of Meigs County, Ohio. They had one child—Mary, who married A. W. Nickeson, of Meigs County, Dec. 8, 1880, and is now living on the old homestead. They have a fine farm of 240 acres all under a good state of cultivation. Mr. Caldwell died June 16, 1862, aged forty-three years, five months and nine days. William Day, born in Lodi Township, Athens Co., Ohio, April 26, 1838, is a son of James and Lucy H. (Pearson) Day, his father a native of New Jersey, and his mother of New Hampshire. He is the oldest of a family of three sons and one daughter. He was married May 13, 1858, to Sarah A. Blazer, and settled on section 1, Lodi Township, where he lived four years. He then bought the farm on section 25, Carthage Township, where he still resides. He has 215 acres of good land and is engaged in general farming, making a specialty of raising sheep and cattle. Aug. 27. 1864, he enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Seventy-fourth Ohio Infantry, and was discharged June 28, 1865. He is a me ber of the A. F. & A. M. fraternity, at Coolville. James Elliott, son of Moses Elliott, was born Jan. 22, 1826, in Carthage Township. He resided on the farm where he was born till 1879 when he bought the farm where he now lives. He has 300 acres of well-improved land, with good buildings. Mr. Elliott has served as Township Clerk fourteen years and Township Treas- HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY - 719 urer twelve years. Jan. 22, 1875, he was appointed Postmaster at Lottridge. He was married April 12, 1853, to Catherine, daughter of Peter and Jane Hammond. They have three children —Ann Jane, born May 10, 1857; Charles Lincoln, July 9, 1860, and Robert Grant, Aug. 29, 1864. J. D. Evans, son of Hans and Elizabeth Evans, was born Sept. 22, 1837, in Morgan County, Ohio. When he was quite small his parents came to Lodi Township and settled on what is now the Windell Shott farm. When he was eight years of age they moved to Bedford Township, Meigs County, where our subject .was reared and educated, spending the greater portion of his early life in farming and milling. May 1, 1864, he enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Forty-first Ohio Infantry. His term of enlistment was short but was distinguished by memorable events in the Shenandoah Valley, on the James River, around Petersburg and Richmond, in the entrenchments before Washington and other important service. In the fall of 1870 he came to Athens County and settled on the farm where he now resides. He has ninety acres of good land well improved. He was married March 13, 1862, to Augusta, daughter of S. T. Hull, of Lodi. They have four children—Samuel E., Martha J., Hiram and Grove. Politically Mr. Evans is a Republican. Moses Elliott, deceased, was born in County Donegal, Ireland, Feb. 1, 1784, a son of John and Fanny (Blain) Elliott. He came to America in 1819, landing at New York, after being fifteen weeks at sea. He first settled in Washington County, Pa., where he lived four years. Dec. 5, 1825, he came to Athens County, stopping first at Hockingport, and Dec. 8 came to Carthage. He was married in 1815 to Jane, daughter of James Cuscaden. They reared a family of seven children—John, Mary, Susannah, Eliza Jane, James, Frances Ann and Sarah. The two eldest were born in Ireland, the next three in Washington County, Pa., and the two youngest in Athens County. Mr. Elliot was Justice of the Peace twelve years and Township Clerk and Trustee several years. In religious faith he was a Methodist. Politically he was a Republican. he died Dec. 19, 1854. D. G. Frost, born in Loll Township, Athens Co., Ohio, March 7, 1831, is a son of Abner and Rachel (Sullivan) Frost. In 1835 or '6 his parents moved to Meigs County, and years after his father went to Wisconsin, where he died, in 1852. D. G. was educated in the common schools, and when twenty years of age went to 720 - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY. learn the cabinet-maker's and carpenter's trades, working at the two combined a number of years. July 1, 1855, he married Ruth Ann, daughter of Aaron Stout, a pioneer of Carthage Township. Aug. 12, 1862, he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Sixteenth Ohio Infantry. The regiment was in the battles of Moorfield, Winchester, New Market, Piedmont, Lynchburg, Fisher's Hill, Hatches Run, and numerous others. He was discharged June 24, 1865, and returned home. In the spring of 1867 he bought the farm where he now resides. He has 100 acres of good land,, which he has improved in a fine manner. Mr. and Mrs. Frost have four children—Clarence, Elwood, Albert and Allen. Politically Mr. Frost is a Republican. He has held most of the township offices. He is a member of the Christian church. J. W. Glazier, son of Walter Glazier, was born Jan. 14, 1844, in Athens County, Ohio. Aug. 18, 1862, he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Sixteenth Ohio Infantry; was in the principal battles of the Shenandoah Valley and around Petersburg and Richmond; was slightly wounded twice, and was taken prisoner and taken to Belle Isle. Was paroled and exchanged, and came home for a short furlough, then rejoined the regiment at Martinsburg, and was with them till the close of the war, being present at the surrender of Lee's army; was discharged at Richmond, mustered out at Camp Denison, and returned home. May 6, 1868, he married Mary M., daughter of Seneca and Irena Hatch, of Rome Township. They have two children—Frank W. and Fannie Fern. In 1871 Mr. Glazier moved on his present farm, where he has ninety-seven acres of good land. He is engaged in fanning and stock-raising, making a specialty of Alderny cattle. Politically Mr. Glazier is a Republican. Walter Glazier, son of Abel and Sally Glazier, was born July 6, 1807, in Ames Township, Athens Co., Ohio. In June, 1831, he married Elizabeth Bolander, of Ross County, Ohio. Seven children were born to them—R. B., Mahala, Laura, Lavinia, James, Mary Jane and Elizabeth. Dec. 21, 1850, Mr. Glazier married Mrs. Laura P. Glazier, daughter of Elijah Hatch, of Athens County. They have three children—Sybil V., E. P. and Addie Rosella. Mr. Glazier came to Carthage Township in 1837, and now owns a farm of 262 acres of fine land. James Hammond, son of Peter and Jane Hammond, was born Dec. 19, 1826. He received but a limited education, his assistance being required on the farm. He lived at home till thirty years of age. April 6, 1864, he married Susan, daughter of H. HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY - 721 and Susan Parsons. They have no children, but have a lopted James W. Kincaid and Abertha Bursons into their home. They are members of the Presbyterian church, and are among the influential citizens of Carthage Township. Mr. Hammond has a farm of 300 acres, well improved, with a good dwelling and commodious barn. John Hammond, born in Jefferson County, Ohio, Oct. 15, 1822, is a son of Peter and Jane (Long) Hammond, natives of Pennsylvania, his father of English and German, and his mother of Irish and German descent. He was the third of a family of nine children—William, Eliza, John, Oliver, James, Mary, Katherine, Margaret and Seth. His early life was spent on a farm, his education being received in the common schools and by studying at home. In 1842 he came to Carthage and built a tan house, following that business six years very successfully. He then bought 100 acres of wild land on section 24, which he cleared and improved, living there till 1865, when he bought the farm where he now lives. He has 242 acres which is well adapted for the raising of stock, in which Mr. Hammond is extensively engaged. He has a fine two-story residence, built in modern style and well furnished. Aug. 28, 1844, he was married to Belinda Caldwell, who died leaving three children—Samantha, Mary and Edward. Oct. 30, 1867. he married Catharine Caldwell. They have three children—Henry, Bettie J. and James Arthur. Mr. Hammond has held the office of Justice of the Peace six years. D. H. Jones, son of H. B. and Susan Jones, was born July 30, 1814, the second of a family of eight children, also one of four of the family that served their time out during the war. He enlisted June 9, 1861, in the war of the Rebellion, in Company C, Third Ohio Infantry; was mustered in the service at Camp Denison, then sent to Virginia under the command of McClellan; was at the battle of Rich Mountain and through the campaign of Virginia until December, 1861, then transferred to the Western army under General Mitchell's command. In May, 1862, he had his jaw broken in a skirmish near Governor Clay's farm in Alabama. He was also in a skirmish in 1862 at Bridgeport; in the battle of Perryville in 1862, receiving a slight wound, and in the battle of Stone River was wounded in the right side, from the effect of which he has never recovered. He, with the rest of the regiment. was detailed mounted infantry in Streight's raid through Georgia; during the time was in some severe skirmishes; was taken prisoner with the rest of the com- - 46 - 722 - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY. mand and taken to Belle Isle, paroled and returned to Camp Chase, Ohio; from there engaged in the Morgan raid through Ohio, then returned to. the army, but did only guard duty on account of commanding Officers being prisoners. He was discharged June 20, 1864; and returned home. Feb. 18, 1865, he married Mary St. Clair, who died leaving one son, John H. March 25, 1868, he married Lurena Rogers, daughter. of John. Rogers, a soldier in th war of 1812. They have three children—Geneva B., 'William 0, and Myrtle A. Mr. Jones owns one of the best farms in the township. He has 100 acres with a two-story residence built in 1882, and a good barn and farm buildings. Edward Lawrence, son of Moses and Sarah Lawrence, was born in Grafton County, N. H., April 16, 1810. He was the sixth of a family of ten children, three of whom are now living. He was married Jan. 19,, 1832, to Maria Sweet, a native of New Hampshire, and five years later he came to Athens County, locating on the farm, where he still. resides. It was only partly cleared, but he has improved it, till now he has one of the best farms in the township. He was the first Postmaster of this township, holding, the position twenty-four years. He has been Township Trustee two years and Treasurer two years. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence have four children—Hannah, Nathan, Elza and Charles. One son, Arthur, enlisted in Company K, Thirty-ninth Ohio Infantry; was wounded at Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 1864, and died. Aug. 27, 1864. Mr: Lawrence has been a member of the Methodist church thirty years. Politically he is a Republican. John Lawrence, born May 2, 1808, in Grafton County, N. H., was a son of Moses and Sarah (Johnson) Lawrence. His early life was spent on a farm, and he received but a common-school education. In 1837 he started for Athens County, coining with teams; was forty-two days on the road. He settled in Carthage Township on the place where he now lives. It was then a wild, heavy timbered piece of land, but now, through the industry of Mr. Lawrence, it is a fine, well-cultivated farm of 200 acres, with first-class improve. ments. March 20, 1831, Mr. Lawrence married Keziah J. Sweet, of Belknap County, N. H. They have five children—Anna, Charles, Mahala, Ho race and Mary. A son, Wesley, enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Seventy-fourth Ohio Infantry, at Newton, N. C. He was wounded, from the effects of which he died March 14, 1865. Mr. Lawrence has been a member of the Methodist. Episcopal church sixty years. HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY - 723 N. S. Lawrence, son of Edward and Maria (Sweet) Lawrence, was born in Carthage Township, Jan. 6, 1844. In May, 1864, he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Fortieth Ohio Infantry, and was discharged Sept. 3, 1864. Oct. 8, 1867, he married Martha, daughter of Francis and Catharine (Flick) Griffin, of Troy Township. In November, 1867, he moved to the farm where he now resides. He has 186 acres of land under a high state of cultivation. In 1877 he built a fine two-story residence. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically he is a Prohibitionist. Bernardus B. Lottridge, son of Thomas and Elizabeth Lottridge, was born in Rensselaer County, N. Y., in 1780. When nineteen years of age he married Abigail Bull, and removed to Niagara, where he lived four years. In 1803 he came to Athens County, being among the first settlers, and located on wild land. He improved, with the help of his two sons, 525 acres of heavily timbered land, and at the time of his death was one of the well-to-do citizens of the county. Mr. and Mrs. Lottridge's children were—Isaac, John, Caroline, Simon, Emma, Maria, Thomas, Sarah, George, Joseph, Amanda, Catharine and Marcus. Mr. Lottridge was a member of the Methodist church forty years. J. D. Lottridge, section 3, Carthage Township, was born Jan. 2, 1818, the son of B. B. Lottridge, one of the pioneers of this county. Our subject was reared on a farm, and received his education in the common schools. In August, 1838, he married Margaret McCleon. Five children were born to them—Geraldine, Ellozine, Caroline (deceased), Josephine V. and William. Mrs. Lottridge died March 8, 1880. May 10, 1881, he married Mrs. Rebecca J. Robertson. She is the mother of one child—Nettie R. Mr. Lott-ridge has a fine farm of 170 acres, all well improved. Simon H. Lottridge, the oldest native of Carthage, now living in the township, was born Feb. 3, 1807, son of B. B. and Abigail (Bull) Lottridge. He was married in March, 1829, to Elizabeth, daughter of Ben Coddington, an early settler of Troy Township. After his marriage he removed to Marietta, Ohio, and remained about a year; then removed to McArthur, which was then in Athens and now Vinton County, where he lived seven years engaged in the wool-carding business. In February, 1838, he returned to the old homestead, where he has since resided. He has a fine farm of 260 acres, all well improved. He has held the office of Justice two terms, Assessor two years, and Township Trustee several years. 724 - HISTORY OF HOCKING VALLEY. Politically he is a Republican. Mr. and Mrs. Lottridge have had eight children, six now living—Catharine, Lydia, Almira and Alira (twins), Sarah and May. Abigail and Mary Jana are deceased. Mr. Lottridge is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. G. W. Lowden, born in Meigs County, Ohio, Feb. 5, 1841, is a son of John and Margaret Lowden, natives of England, who settled in Meigs County in 1833. He enlisted in the war of the Rebellion in the Second West Virginia Cavalry, and served three years and four months; was in the battles of Pottsville, Lewisburg, Lynchburg, Winchester, Cedar Creek and numerous others; was discharged at Wheeling, W. Va. He married Sarah Lax, of Meigs County, and a daughter of George and Elizabeth Lax. They have five children—Thomas S., Lizzie, John, George and Earl E. One daughter, Annie, died in March, 1882, aged eight years. Mr. Lowden owns a farm of eighty acres under a good state of cultivation. Politically he is a Republican. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. C. McNeil, deceased, was born in Meigs County, Ohio, April 29. 1827, the son of Archie McNeil, a native of New York. He was reared a farmer, and received his education in the common schools. He was married Nov. 14, 1850, to Lydia A. Gleason, of Vinton County. He cams to Carthage Township in 1855. Feb. 14, 1865, he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Eighty-ninth Ohio Infantry. He died April 15, 1865, leaving a wife and two children—Hiram H. and Perry P. Mr. McNeil was a member of the United Brethren church; a kind husband and father, and a good neighbor, he was respected by all who knew him. Mrs. McNeil still resides on the old farm with her son Perry P., who is a teacher. Eli P. Persons, born Dec. 24, 1827, in Carthage Township, Athens County, Ohio, is a son of Sylvester and Lydia Persons, natives of Connecticut and Virginia respectively. His father died when he was twenty years old, and the next four years he worked by the month at farming. He was married Oct. 24, 1851, to Susan Bail, a native of Pennsylvania. Aug. 25, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, Seventy-third Ohio Infantry, but by the exposures of army life he lost his eyesight, and in November he was granted a furlough, but not recovering was discharged in February, 1863. Mr. and Mrs. Persons hale five children—Sylvester, Almira J., Samuel, Elizabeth and Horace. Politically Mr. Persons is a Re publican.