262 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY CHAPTER IV. JEROME TOWNSHIP. JEROME TOWNSHIP occupies the southeastern corner of Union County. It is bounded on the east by Delaware and Franklin Counties, on the south by Franklin and Madison; Darby Township bounds it on the west, and Mill Creek on the north. Big Darby Creek, its principal stream, crosses the southwest corner. Sugar Run flows southward through the central portion, and farther east several small streams take their origin and flow into Delaware and Franklin Counties. The surface is level, or slightly rolling. The valley of Big Darby is narrow, and the soil of it is a rich, black loam. Back of this a ridge of land rises, having a width of perhaps one-half mile, the soil, of which is somewhat gravelly. A fertile black soil is found beyond this, covering much of the southern portion of the township. Farther to the north, clay predominates. In early times.. the entire surface was densely forested, and much timber that would now possess great value, including black walnut and cherry, was felled and burned in large heaps, to make way for crops of corn and grass. Hickory, oak, walnut, elm, beech and swamp ash were the prevalent types of timber. The township was organized March 12, 1821. As originally constituted, its bounds were as follows: Beginning at the northeast corner of Darby Township, thence east to the east line of Union County; all south to be known by the name of Jerome. The first election was held May 10, 1821, for the selection of a Justice of the Peace. Clark Provin received the entire fifteen votes cast. James Ewing, who was then Sheriff of the county, Frederick Sager and Simeon Hager were the Judges of this election. John Taylor and John McCune were the Clerks. A few traces of the pro-historic race still remain, but they are becoming fainter every year. In the valley of Big Darby are two small mounds, both of which are sepulchral. One of them is on Zachariah Noteman's farm, north of his residence. It is about thirty feet in diameter, and by repeated plowings has been greatly reduced in height. A few years ago, it was excavated. Two kinds of earth were observed, and ashes and charcoal were found. Six or seven human skeletons were exhumed, one of which was of remarkable size. The other mound is farther up the stream, north of it, on the old Ewing farm, situated probably twenty rods from the creek. It, too, was excavated sometime since, and human bones were discovered. Human skeletons have been found in many of the gravel beds that abound along the streams of the township. They are supposed to have been the remains of the Indians who frequented the country. It was not uncommon for the earliest pioneers to find silver brooches. "They were of various sizes, either round or heart-shaped, and had evidently been worn by the Indians. Some were several inches in diameter, and handsomely wrought, but they have all been carried away by the curiosity seeker. Flints, stone weapons and the JEROME TOWNSHIP. - 263 badges of the Mound-Builders, have frequently been found in some localities. The collection of Mr. John Curry is, perhaps. the largest in the county. When the first settlers invaded the wild precincts of Jerome, they came to the heart of a favorite Indian hunting ground. On the north, south, east and west were yet to be seen the rude wigwams of the dusky race that theretofore had held undisputed possession of this game-abounding country. Their numbers, for many years, greatly exceeded that of the whites, and their presence was at least novel to the settlers. if not dread inspiring. Many of the young children of the first comers could not conquer a shrinking horror in their sight, for the Indian name was to them, by oft-repeated tales too intimately associated with dreadful massacres to permit them to overcome their fear of them. The Indians, observing this, would delight in brandishing their knives and frightening the boys and girls, who would always run in terror from them. The principal haunt of the red men, before they were disturbed by the pioneers, was on the banks of Big Darby, just northwest from Plain City. They dwelt here in considerable numbers about the year 1800, in wigwams built of bark and covered with brush. Their chief subsistence was game, although the squaws cultivated small patches of corn. This latter commodity, however, when desired by the Indians, after the advent of the pioneers, was usually obtained by begging, or in exchange for products of the chase. On the old Kent farm, on Sugar Run, was a sugar camp, where the Indians for many years engaged in the manufacture of delicious glucose for their own consumption. They hacked the trees with their tomahawks and inserted split spiles, caught the flowing sap in hewed out troughs and boiled it down in kettles of iron or copper. On the Abner Chapman place, in Survey 5,166, was a usual place for encampment of the Indians. Parties from Chillicothe were wont to meet them here, and barter for large quantities of raccoon skins and furs. Not many years after the Ewings arrived, and before the war of 1812 commenced, "Bill" Taylor, the Ron of Isaac Taylor, who settled on Darby, near the northern limits of Madison County rushed to his father's cabin one day, and, with a frightened look, related that he had overheard an Indian conversation near the creek, in which it was said that the Indians were to fall upon the white settlers that night and exterminate them, if possible. The news, as it was conveyed from cabin to cabin, created the utmost consternation. Only a few families had yet settled on Darby, and the Indians greatly outnumbered them. It was agreed that all the settlers should congregate that night, with their families, at the cabin of Daniel Taylor, on the south bank of Darby, in Jerome Township, as his cabin was the largest and best adapted to repel an invasion. As nightfall approached, the Ewings, Careys, Taylors and other families hurried to the rendezvous, and preparations for defense were made. The doors were barred, and cleats nailed at the sides and top. All night long the men watched and waited, guns in hand. The house was crowded with women and children, but fear drove sleep from their eyes. Morning came, but the threatened attack was not made. Thinking that the Indians had feared to attack the improvised fort, so strongly guarded, the settlers dared not remain at home the following night, but again assembled, and spent the weary hours in dreadful suspense and anticipation of attack, but all was quiet, and nowhere were there any indications of Indians in the vicinity. Doubts of the correctness of the rumor then began to be entertained, and Bill Taylor was closely interrogated concerning the alleged conversation he had overheard. The cross examination was too rigid for him, and he finally confessed it was all a hoax. He had seen no Indians. The more than ordinary depravity of his composition had suggested to him the story. Amicable relations were generally maintained with the Indians, who sel- 264 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. dom gave cause for difficulties. These, however, would occasionally occur. Daniel Taylor, who was one of the foremost pioneers, brought with him a mare and colt. A party of Indians were once visiting at his house, and one of them espied and greatly admired the mare; he wished to buy her, but Taylor was unwilling to make the sale, as it would break his team, and another horse could not be procured nearer than Chillicothe. Jonathan Alder, who was present, and observed the Indian's eagerness, advised Mr. Taylor to sell "the critter," but this he would not consent to do. Not many days later the horse was stolen and never recovered, and the trip to Chillicothe Mr. Taylor was obliged to make. James Ewing brought the first sheep to this county. He kept them confined within a high enclosure, through fear of the wolves. Several Indians, who had been hunting, called at his cabin soon after. Their dogs jumped over the fence and attacked the sheep. Mr. Ewing, in his anger, seized his rifle and shot one of the dogs. This act enraged the Indians, and a breach of the friendship between them and Mr. Ewing was imminent. Jonathan Alder was present, and interposed. His efforts at peace-making at length restored good feeling. During the war of 1812, there were several rumors of threatened Indian descents on the Darby settlements, but all proved unfounded. At "the falls" of Sugar Run, two Indian hunting parties, during the hostilities, were to meet by agreement. One of them arrived, and after waiting for the other some time, a member of the party discovered, cut in the bark, of a beech tree, the picture of a horse, a gun and a symbol indicating direction. The interpretation of this, to the Indian mind, was that the other party had stolen a horse and were pursued, the direction they had gone being indicated. They waited no longer, but at once took sudden departure. Indians were not the only objects of apprehension to the pioneers. Panthers and other wild and dangerous animals frequented the forests, and the only safeguard against them was a trusty rifle. Samuel Taylor, the son of Daniel Taylor, was coming home one evening, down the Darby from the Mitchell settlement, on horseback, when he saw a coon run up a tree. He climbed the tree and dispatched the coon with a club, then mounted his horse with his game and again proceeded homeward. His horse was very restive, and to ascertain the cause the boy looked around. He saw a large panther, which sprang out into the path behind him just as he started. The boy lost no time in reaching his father's cabin, for the panther kept even pace behind him all the way. Mrs. Elizabeth Ewing, the wife of Joshua Ewing, one day visited Mrs. Elizabeth Taylor, who lived below Amity. On her return she carried in her arms the infant daughter of Mrs. Taylor, of which she was very fond, intending to return with it the next day. After going some distance, she was startled to see a large panther crouching in the path, a short distance ahead of her. She was greatly frightened, and stopped, but looked the animal steadily in the eyes for a few minutes. It then arose and entered the bushes on one side. She proceeded, and reached home in safety. Though often encountered in this way, it is not known that any one was attacked by these wild denizens of the wilderness. It was only a short time after the first settlers came that the woods were filled with wild hogs. Most of the early settlers brought a few hogs with them, and as the mast of the forest was amply sufficient for their sustenance, they were allowed to run at large. Each settler branded his hogs with a private ear mark, and could thus identify his own property. Many of these swine were lost; they multiplied rapidly, and a breed of wild, vicious hogs was the result. They would attack dogs, and sometimes men, when the branches of a tree would be the only retreat. JEROME TOWNSHIP. - 265 For many years it was customary for the settlers to allow their hogs to run at large during the fall, and when winter approached it was often extremely difficult to get them back within enclosures. Good hog-drivers were in great demand, and received high wages. The unruly animals were usually driven in large droves by men on horseback, Resisted by dogs, into an inclosed field, where they were assorted and their ownership determined by the ear marks. Sometimes wide circuits, miles in extent, must be made before they could be secured. Those belonging to widows were always brought in free by the neighbors. Wolves were plentifully at first, but the bounty of $4 a scalp paid by the county made them much sought after by hunters, and the forests were cleared of them before other large game disappeared. Near the present residence of John Curry, on Sugar Run, Survey 5,132, was a "deer lick," where in early times many deer were killed. The spring is sulphury, and at night the deer would frequent the place. A chair was fastened in the branches of a tree, which commanded a view of the path leading to the spring, and in this chair the hunter would sit and await the approach of his game. Although it was so dark that he could scarcely discern the outlines of the deer, he rarely failed in bringing it down. Cattle and horses still drink the water of this spring with great avidity. In its vicinity Mr. Curry has found almost an innumerable number of flint arrows and stone axes. indicating that the red men, too, were want to hunt on this spot. JONATHAN ALDER. In a previous chapter of this volume are given the outlines of the life of Jonathan Alder, whose history is closely linked with each of the two races of pioneer times. When he was captured by the Indians, he believed his life was spared because his hair was dark, and because he smiled at the savage who had raised his tomahawk to kill him. He saw his little bright haired brother slain and believed all the family except himself had been killed. He lived within the bounds of Jerome Township at the time he abandoned his Indian life and returned to his home. With other Indian braves, he dwelt on the west banks of Big Darby just above Plain City. His cabin stood on the high bank above the grist mill, and only a few rods from the present residence of George Atkins. When he came to this place is unknown, but he was living there with his squaw wife when the first settlers arrived. Until 1795, when the Indian treaty restored peace, he was engaged with his Indian comrades in various depredations and hostile excursions and it was probably very soon after this that he settled on Darby. As the pioneers arrived, he mingled with them and relearned the English language, which he had almost forgotten. His squaw cultivated a little patch of corn in the bottoms and Jonathan dealt to some extent, in stock. The land he occupied belonged to the tract Daniel Taylor had purchased, and, when the latter arrived about 1803, Jonathan kindly surrendered to him the cabin he had built and occupied, and with his squaw built and removed to a bark hut close by. His association with white men created a strong desire to follow their habits and abandon his Indian life. His squaw still clung to Indian ways and their diverging tastes became more and more marked. Jonathan no longer went with his Indian brethren on their "big hunts. " From a settler, he received the information that his mother was still living, and he resolved to return to her. Richard Taylor made him a suit of clothes which he donned in place of his Indian garments. He told his squaw his intention and they divided their effects. The wild life he had led had not wholly obliterated the instincts to accumulate, for he had saved a few or hundred silver dollars, and had besides a number of ponies. The former he gave his 266 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. wife after some parleying and also equally divided the latter with her. He bade her adieu; she went northward to her own people and he turned his face toward Virginia, the State of his birth and boyhood. This was in 1805, and his departure terminated his connection with Jerome Township. He found his relatives in Virginia, there married Mary Blont and returned with her to Ohio, settling in Madison County. By this marriage he had twelve children. He lived, died and was buried in Madison County. His tombstone bears this inscription: "Jonathan Alder, born September 17, 1773. Taken by the Indians 1781. Returned to his mother in 1805. Died January 30, 1849, aged about 76 years." His squaw wife had separated from him unwillingly, for in spite of his proclivities for the fashions of the pale face, she was deeply attached to him. It is said she had threatened to kill his wife should he ever marry again, and that he feared her on this account. For some time after his return, he would not permit his wife to remain alone in their cabin. When he went to the fields to work, she must accompany him. On their return one day from a trading expedition to a neighboring town, they found the tin ware bent and cut, the iron ware broken in pieces by an ax. and Mrs. Alder's dresses slashed and cut in shreds. Though the squaw was not seen, the mischief was attributed to her hands. Mr. Alder's long life with the red men had bred in him Indian traits and manners, which clung to him through life. Though he possessed good business talent, he disliked hard work, and confined his farm labors principally to stuck-raising. He was dark hued and bore some resemblance to the Indian race. He was a large, tall man and could move about almost noiselessly. While living in Jerome Township, he was the friend of the white men, and whenever occasion offered acted as peacemaker between them and the Indians Mr. Adler related the following hunting incident, which occurred while camping on Darby, in Jerome Township: "One day about noon I saw a large bear in the top of a big, white oak tree, picking off and eating acorns. I sat down on the ground about 100 yards off to watch its motions. I did not wish to kill it, as bears were not yet fat, and fur was not yet good, or rather not of full growth. I sat there amusing myself with its motions for some time. It was really funny to see it get about in the very top branches, while the whole tree shook with its enormous weight at every motion. All at once it ceased to gather in the branches and slid down and commenced picking the acorns that had fallen to the ground. In a few moments, without the least warning, it started in the direction I was, as rapidly as it could pace. I had my gun resting in my lap and saw it would run right over me. I had no time to get up and get out of its way, so I raised my gun and fired as soon as possible, when it was within a few yards of me. I shot it through the brain and it fell right across my lap. I was badly seared, for I did not know that I had killed it. I kicked and struggled to get from beneath it, but it was so heavy that it took some time before I could get out. I had shot it so dead that it never kicked, but laid like a log upon me, all of which, had not been so frightened, I might have observed. When I finally got out, I was so much exhausted from the fright and effort I could hardly stand." EARLY SETTLEMENTS. To Joshua and James Ewing, two brothers, belong the honor of making the first settlement in what is now Union County and in Jerome Township. Accounts all agree that they settled permanently on Big Darby in the year 1798, but it is also said that two or three years prior to this date, these two young men, then both unmarried, had been West, probably in the Indian service, and having determined on settling in this wild and unoccupied country, JEROME TOWNSHIP. - 267 cast their eyes about for a favorable location. They traveled with one horse and a small, two-wheeled cart, cutting their way through the tangled brushwood and sleeping in a tent, which they carried with them. They encamped on a spot in southeastern Jerome, which afterward became the James Ewing homestead, there cleared a small patch of ground and planted it in corn, chopping holes in the ground with an ax and then covering the hill with the fork of a stick. Peace with the Indians had just been declared, and the smoke of war had scarcely yet risen from the land. Surrounded on all sides by the Indians, who had scarcely yet washed the war-paint from their faces, the youthful adventurers felt the solitude and dangers of their position, and without waiting for their little patch of corn to ripen, they packed their few goods and turned their faces eastward, concluding to wait several years before returning. The two boys were the sons of Mascol Ewing, whose home was in Now Jersey. They were cousins to Gen. Thomas Ewing, formerly of Lancaster, Ohio. They possessed great force of character, and in point of intelligence and education, they ranked among the highest class of pioneers. In 1798, when they made the permanent settlement, each brought his household effects by team the entire distance from Now Jersey. Joshua, the elder, had recently married Margaret Scott, and he brought his young wife with him. James was accompanied by his aged mother, Cynthia, and his two sisters, Betsy and Mrs. Eunice Donaldson. The latter was a widow, and her only child, Ewing Donaldson, came with her. Joshua purchased a lot in the newly platted town of North Liberty, in Darby Township, and there erected his cabin. Both families lived here for a short time, but the town did not improve any and very soon after the Ewings both settled in Jerome Township, near its southwest corner on the south side of Big Darby. Of this early family no descendants are now left in Union County. Joshua Ewing was a surveyor and in addition to his labors on the farm he devoted considerable time to this occupation. He made a great many of the early surveys in Madison and Union Counties. He was the first Auditor of Union County and it is thought died while serving his first term. His death occurred about 1822, it is supposed from the fatal fever which swept over Darby Plains in that year. His children were Eliza, born in May 1800, who removed to Adair County, Iowa, and died there, unmarried, August 28, 1881; George, who emigrated to near Attica, Ind., and died there; Polly, married to David Chapman, and removed to Adair County, Iowa, where both died; Joshua Green, who died in Jerome Township, leaving seven children, all of whom went to Iowa; Cynthia, who died unmarried on the home farm; Harriet, who married William Allen and died a few years since in Plain City; Martha, Peggy and William Scott, all of whom died in Jerome Township. James Ewing, was one of the best and foremost citizens of Union County during the first thirty years of its existence. His old homestead in Jerome was in Survey 12,125, where he lived to the time of his death. He was elected and served as the first Sheriff of Union County. In religious belief, he was a Presbyterian and a firm member, and for many years a Ruling Elder of Lower Liberty Church. In politics, he was an unflinching Whig. In 1810, Mr. Ewing purchased a stock of goods at Chillicothe, brought them to his farm and opened a country store, thereby becoming the first merchant in what is now Union County. Through his efforts, a post office was secured and he was appointed the first Postmaster. He operated the store for about ton years, and then withdrew for a time from mercantile business. In 1833, he erected a large frame store room adjoining his dwelling, and filled it with an extensive stock of goods. He continued in business this latter time only two years. In 1835, his younger son, David, to whom he was deeply attached, met with an 268 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. untimely death just as he was entering upon a life of brilliant promise, and under his sense of lose Mr. Ewing retired permanently from business. He had been the possessor of some means when he came to Ohio, and by his stern, honorable business qualities he accumulated considerable property. He was one of the first trustees of the Franklin County Bank He was scrupulously honest in all his dealings, and his word passed current for almost any amount. Small currency was very scarce, and in order to meet the demand for this kind of money and facilitate trade, he issued what was termed in those days "shin plasters," payable on demand. They were considered by the people as good as coin and were never dishonored by their maker. James Ewing possessed strong convictions and was always true to them. He lived in his little log cabin till the day of his death, which occurred August 26, 1850. It was too closely associated with his earliest struggles, when the country was wild and unoccupied, to be forsaken for the more modern spacious frame that stood by its side. He was married about 1807 to Elizabeth, daughter of Calvin Cary, of Madison County. Their children were several daughters who died young, and two sons, Thomas M. and David C. The latter was an intelligent, promising young man, who graduated at South Hanover College, Indiana, in 1835, and was just entering upon the study of law, when he fell a victim of typhoid fever. Thomas M. was a well-known resident of Jerome. Elizabeth, the sister of James Ewing, married David Cary during the war of 1812. He died six months later in camp at Franklinton. She afterward married a widower, Andrew Gill, and had two children, Mason and Susan, both of whom married and died in Darby Township. Mrs. Eunice Donaldson, soon after emigrating here, returned East. Her son, Ewing remained with his uncle, James Ewing; became a farmer and died a few years since near the Scioto River, not far from Dublin, leaving a large family. The Taylors were among the foremost pioneers of Big Darby in Jerome Township. There were five brothers by this name, Richard, Daniel, Isaac William and John, all of whom settled on the Creek in close proximity to each other, but the last three in Madison County. They came in 1800 or 1802. They were Virginians, who had settled in Kentucky, but not liking the country there emigrated to Ohio. Richard Taylor was born in Virginia, learned the tailors trade in that State and removed to Kentucky. He there married Mary Murray, near Cynthiana, and followed farming and tailoring until he came with his family to Darby Creek about 1802. He purchased and settled on the land in Survey 5,238, located on the west banks of Big Darby, about one-half mile north of Plain City, and now known as the Jones farm. Only a few families were then living on the creek. His nearest neighbor was Jonathan Alder, who lived in a little cabin a little farther down the stream. Mr. Taylor's family was troubled with ague, owing to the low, wet lands in the vicinity, and in a few years he disposed of his place and returned to near Cynthiana, Ky. He there bought land, but in a few years the validity of his title was questioned, and under the fear that it might prove defective, hearing encouraging reports from his friends in Ohio, he abandoned his land and returned to Darby. He purchased a farm situated immediately east of the site of Plain City, and located partly in Union and partly in Madison County. His cabin, however, was built in Madison, and he lived there to the day of his death. He was a Whig, and a member of the Christian and New Light Church. Of his six children, two died young. Two sons, William and Jeptha, live in Jerome Township. The former has occupied his present farm since 1831. Of the two daughters, Susanna, the older, is deceased; Nancy, who was born in Union County in 1803, married Samuel Mason, and now lives in Madison County. Page 269 - Picture of Wm. C. Wood Page 270 Blank JEROME TOWNSHIP. - 271 Daniel Taylor was born in Virginia March 13, 1774; came to Jerome Township about 1802, and died February 29, 1852. He married Miss Mary Brown in Virginia, and had eleven children, three of whom died young. Samuel, Rhoda (Hager), Mary (Knapp), and Moses died in Madison County; Jane was the wife of Moses Mitchell, of Darby Township, and John was a farmer of Jerome;. Sarah, wife of John Norton, and Levi still live at Plain City. Mr. Taylor had lived in Kentucky before coming here. He settled on thirty-two acres in, Survey 5,128, just north of Plain City and west of the creek, but in a few years bought 150 acres across Big Darby, off the southern part of Survey 3,686, and lived there till his death. He was a Democrat through life and a zealous member of the Baptist Church, of which he was for many years a Deacon. John Taylor, a young unmarried man, accompanied his brother, Richard, to Darby when he first removed here from Kentucky and made his home with him in Jerome Township for several years. He married Mrs. Elizabeth McCullough, the widow of Samuel McCullough, Sr., and settled in Madison County. Another of the earliest settlers on Big Darby in Jerome was Andrew Noteman. No record has been kept of the date of his settlement and the time cannot be definitely determined. The date of his deed is 1802, and it was probably about that year or soon after that he arrived. He was born June 1, 1773, near Harper's Ferry, Md. When he first came to Ohio, he located in Ross County, and remained there till he purchased from John Taylor and settled on the 100 acre farm where his son Zechariah now lives, about a half-mile north of Plain City. The farm was then in its native wildness, with no clearing upon it. Mr. Noteman built his cabin on the site of his son's present residence, and lived there, clearing and cultivating his land till, his death at a venerable age. He had been twice married. His first wife died before his emigration to Jerome, leaving one child, Jinsey, who accompanied her father here, and afterward married John Taylor, of Madison County. Mr. Noteman's second wife was Mrs. Elizabeth (Brown) McCune, whom he married near Chillicothe. She was a widow, and John, William, Jane and Susan McCune, her children by her first marriage, came with them to their frontier habitation. By this second marriage there were two children, both born in Jerome Township-Polly (who afterward became the wife of Otway Curry), in 1807, and Zechariah, now in possession of the old homestead, in 1811. Mr. Noteman was a prominent and earnest Methodist and a Whig. He was a farmer, judicious, economical, living within his means, kind, benevolent and interested in the welfare of others. " John McCune married Polly, daughter of Simeon Hager, and settled in Madison County near Plain City. Afterward he removed to a farm in Jerome, on Sugar Run, and lived there till his death. His children were Chauncey, of Illinois, David, John, Mrs. Jane Green and Mrs. Mary Green. The Sagers were also among the earliest settlers and occupied some of the beat land in the township. The larger part of this family settled in Darby Township; but Henry, Frederick and Abraham located in Jerome. Henry Sager purchased the farm just north of Big Darby, now owned by J. T. McCullough, in Survey 3,686, and settled there shortly after the beginning of this century. His first cabin stood back from the road quite a distance, but it was built before public roads had any existence in his locality, and after the highway was opened he built his second cabin near the present residence of Mr. McCullough. He was a blacksmith, and was occupied with the labors of his trade when not clearing or tilling his land. Mr. Sager was a genial, good natured citizen. In his day, the customers usually furnished the metals with which to fashion the various implements they desired; and iron 272 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. then and there was a very valuable and rare article, so much so that it was often pilfered; but whenever any was missing and complaint made to him, Mr. Sager would reply very seriously that he strongly suspected that the rats had eaten it. He was a County Commissioner for many years, and quite a prominent citizen. In religious belief and affiliation, he was a Presbyterian. He had married Lavinia Haynes, and remained a life-long resident of Jerome Township. Frederick Sager owned a large farm, comprising the land in Survey 3,686, on the east banks of Darby Creek, now the property of T. T. Kilbury and Perry Douglass. His first cabin stood near the present residence of Mr. Kilbury. Mr. Sager had the honor of erecting the first mill in the territory now comprising Union County. He was a generous man, but, like many of the pioneers, rough in manners. He married Hannah Harrison, raised a large family and ultimately removed with it to Kalamazoo County, Mich., where he spent the remainder of his life, Patrick Conner was the first settler on Sugar Run, coming from Pennsylvania, about 1804-05. He owned and occupied a small farm in the lower part of Survey 5,132. He was of Irish descent and a very intelligent man. Like most men of his nationality, he was fond of whisky, and he usually gratified this propensity. He was once a candidate for Justice of the Peace, probably before 1820, and his intemperate habits were urged against his election. Patrick heard of it and at the polls promised if elected that he would thenceforth refrain from the use of liquor. His popularity won for him the election and he kept his promise and made an excellent officer. He followed shoo-making in connection with farming and afterward removed to Amity, where he died in 1810. His wife, who was Polly Lee, died in 1856, at the home of her grandson, David McClung. Their two children were Jane, who married Reuben Cook, and Margaret who married Joseph McClung. Joseph McClung came to Sugar Run from Pennsylvania very early, settling on the farm his son David now owns. He was in the war of 1812. John Kent settled in Survey 5,126, on Sugar Run, in 1806. When he first came, he cleared ten acres on the Mitchell place through mistake, and for his trouble Judge Mitchell permitted him to use the field till he thought he was repaid for the work. He was a well-to-do farmer, always had an abundance of provisions and seed grain on hand, and would invariably help those of his neighbors who needed assistance, whether or not they had money to repay the loans he would make. He was a strong member of the Christian or Now Light Church, and occasionally had services at his house. His wife's name was Margaret; they had six children-Daniel, who was born February 25, 1791, married Dillie Shover and resided in Jerome; James, who removed to Delaware County; William, who died in Illinois; Moses, Sallie and Alexander. The last also removed to Illinois and died there. Henry Shover was a Revolutionary soldier, who emigrated from Virginia at an early date, purchased and settled upon a farm in the northern part of Survey 3,686, above Darby Creek. He was of German descent, and his religious preferences were Lutheran, though he was not a member of any church. He helped to move the Sager family from Virginia, and thus became acquainted with the Darby country, where he soon after settled. He possessed some means, and in his demeanor was quiet and honest. He had three sons and three daughters. The latter became the wives of Christian Sager, George Cary and Samuel Mason. The sons were Adam, Frederick and Simon. Adam removed to Mechanicsburg and there operated a mill. Frederick died a farmer of Franklin County. Simon Shover was one of the most eccentric and reckless characters that JER0ME TOWNSHIP. - 273 lived in Union County. It is said that he served in the Indian wars and was once captured by the savages and only escape death by jumping on a log, flapping his arms and crowing like a rooster. This novel antic pleased his captors and made him a favorite. He enlisted early in the war of 1812, was taken prisoner at Gen. Winchester's defeat and paroled. Returning home, he found that most of his acquaintances were in service, and becoming discontented he disregarded his parole, went to the front and re-enlisted. For several years his whereabouts were unknown to his friends, but at the close of the war he returned. He served under Gen. Harrison in the Northwest, and was one of the body of fifty men who made a sortie from a garrison to spike some cannon, in which only nineteen men returned. Simon was a good scholar and an excellent scribe, but too fond of the cup that cheers and inebriates, and when under the potent spell of alcohol his daring recklessness was at its height. On a favorite black horse, he would plunge into Darby and swim across when high waters made the stream utterly unsafe, but from frequent practice the horse had learned to swim like a duck and always carried its rider safely over. He could give the genuine Indian War whoop, and once rode horseback into court and astonished the dignified Judge, the bar and spectators by uttering this savage watery at the top of his voice. He was constantly playing all sort of queer tricks, regardless of consequences, but his humor and popularity usually kept him out of trouble. He never married, and ended his days in one of the charitable institutions of Union County. One of the few Revolutionary officers who settled in Union County was Col. James Curry. He was born near Belfast, Ireland, in 1752, came to America with his father when ten years of age, and located in Augusta County, Va. After a most honorable service as an officer of the army throughout the Revolutionary war, he removed in the year 1797 to Ohio, settling first in Ross County. In 1811, he came with his family to the territory now known as Union County, where he located a large body of land and on which he erected the cabin in which he died, He was a member of the Legislature when the county was organized, and was for many years after one of the Judges of its courts. For a detailed history of the life of this eminent man the reader is referred to the biographical sketches following. The following are brief notices of his children: James A. Curry was born in Virginia March 30, 1787, and remained with his father's family until his marriage to Phoebe Winget, daughter of Stephen Winget, of Madison County, in March 1817. In politics, he was a Democrat. He devoted himself to agricultural life and died on his farm March 1, 1874, aged eighty-seven years, A full sketch of him appears elsewhere. Harriet C. Curry was born June 7, 1791. She married James Buck and they resided in the northeast portion of the Curry Survey. Mrs. Buck died August 10, 1845. Their four children were Caroline, Perry, Mrs. Maria Flock and Mrs. Martha Shaffer. Only the first now survives. James Buck came from Highland County about 1812. He was a well informed farmer and served Jerome Township for some years as Justice of the Peace. He was a Democrat, a Presbyterian and died at about the age of fifty, of consumption. Stephenson Curry was born December 3, 1801, and was a life long farmer of Jerome Township. He married Sarah D. Robinson, daughter of James Robinson, of Darby, and had eight children. He took little part in public affairs, preferring the quiet of books and domestic life. His death occurred April 2, 1861. A full sketch of him appears elsewhere in this work. Otway Curry was born March 26, 1804, and married Miss Mary, daughter of Andrew Noteman; he resided for a time on the Jones farm on Big Darby, in Jerome, then removed to Marysville. A full sketch of him appears elsewhere in this volume. 274 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. Louisa Curry was born July 24, 1807, married Nelson Cone and is still living in this township; nine children have been born to them, of whom six survive-James, Stephenson B., Daniel R, Albert H., Thomas N. and Louisa. Robert Burns Curry, the youngest of this family, was born June 3, 1811. He remained a farmer of Jerome until 1854, when he emigrated with his family to Iowa. Subsequently he removed to Missouri and is now living in Norton County, Kan. He married Sarah Beard, and their children are James D., William G., Jane, Ann, Harriet, Sarah, Albert and Ella. Samuel McCullough was a son of Samuel McCullough, Sr., who died in Darby Township in 1800. He lived with his mother, who married John Taylor, in Madison County, till he arrived at the age of maturity. He then purchased a small farm in the southwestern part of Jerome, where his son, John T., now resides, and there engaged in farming. He was industrious and constantly extended the limits of his property. He took pride in making his home pleasant and attractive, and died in a large and handsome residence, which he had erected a few years ago. George Hensel, of German descent, came with his parents when a boy from near Parkersburg, Penn., to Fairfield County. In 1819, he moved to Delaware County and the same year bought a large quantity of land in Jerome Township and Delaware County. In 1819, he removed to Jerome, near Frankfort, and with his sons cleared up much land in this vicinity. By trade, he was a brick-layer and stone mason. He died in 1847. He was twice married; by his first marriage he had three children, by his second, six. Survey 5,132, of 600 acres, on Sugar Run, in the south-central portion of the township, was purchased at an early date by Judge David Mitchell, of Darby Township, divided into three portions, upon each of which one of his sons located. George Mitchell came first, probably as early as 1814. He married Margaret Boles and had three children-David, James F. and Martha E., who married Dixon Robinson. Mr. Mitchell died of pneumonia, soon after his settlement in Jerome. David Mitchell, Jr., his brother, settled on the adjoining tract about 1816. Years afterward, he removed to Darby Plains and engaged extensively in stock raising. He then removed to Columbus and operated in the cattle market till his fortune deserted him. He moved to St. Louis, Mo., but afterward returned to Ohio and spent the remainder of his life with one of his children at Hilliard. His children were David A. (deceased), Joseph H., of California; Zenus M., in the West; Belinda (Cushman), of California; Hasson Shaw, of St. Louis; Dixon A., of California; Samantha, Maria L. (Welch) and Delmore. The third son of Judge Mitchell, who occupied land in this survey, was Jesse Mitchell. He was the first white child born in what is now Union County. The date of his birth was November 4, 1799, a few weeks after his parents had settled in Darby Township. Jesse remained with his parents until his marriage, in December 1823, to Elizabeth Robinson, daughter of Rev. James Robinson, then of Union Township. He at once settled with his young wife on his farm on Sugar Run. The farm was at this time still in its native wildness, except three acres, which had been cleared years before by John Kent under a mistake as to its location. In 1823, there wore no neighbors eastward nearer than five or six miles. Mr. Mitchell remained on the farm an industrious, energetic farmer until his death, May 13, 1881. In his lifetime he amassed considerable property. He had nine children-Maria, who married A. H. McCampbell; Martha E., who died unmarried; Lucinda, wife of Rev. Levi Hall, a Methodist Episcopal minister, now of Minneapolis; James, on the home place; Amanda, widow of Thomas J. Haynes, of Plain City; David, who died young; George W., who died in service at the St. JEROME TOWNSHIP. - 275 Louis hospital; Electa, died in infancy; and Hester, widow of Z. H. McCullough, at Central College, Franklin County. Mrs. Mitchell still survives and resides with her daughter Amanda in Plain City. On what is now the J. W. Mitchell place, in Survey 5,138, on Sugar Ran, William Bethard settled probably as early as 1820. He afterward removed with his family. His son Josiah, soon after his marriage, settled in Franklin County. Samuel Colter sojourned for a few years on Sugar Run, his arrival dating about the year 1825. Moses Green owned a small place on Sugar Run, taking possession about 1820. He died in this township. William Long was a very early settler on Survey 5,126. He removed with a large family to Indiana and died there. John Stickle, whose mother had married William Bethard, settled on Sugar Run, where he farmed. He was a Presbyterian. Philip Hawn settled on Survey 3,750, of 100 acres, in the western part of the township in 1819, and remained there till his death. His wife, Mrs. Mary Hawn, claimed to have been the first white female child born at Cincinnati, where her birth occurred March 5, 1791. Her father was Jacob Linsicome, who came down the Ohio from Pennsylvania in the fall of 1790 and stayed during the ensuing winter with his family within what are now the limits of Cincinnati. Soon after the birth of Mary, be purchased land in Turkey Bottom and removed his family there, He died of small-pox within three years after, and his widow subsequently became the wife of Samuel Edwards. After a short time they moved to a place on the stream called Sycamore, and in 1821 to the Pickaway plains, settling three miles from Circleville. Here Mary married Philip Hawn, and having exchanged her share of her father's land in Hamilton County for the 100 acres in Jerome, removed to it with her husband in 1819. She survived her husband some years and died at the residence of her son Joseph Hawn near Unionville Center, June 21, 1861. There were a few squatters here in early times and many renters, who usually remained only a short time. A complete record of them would be impossible, even if desirable. James Stillwell was a renter for a time on the Sager farm. He taught one term of school. Isaac Mason also lived on the Sager place. He was the first potter in Jerome, and followed his trade here. George Casey was another early settler, who owned no realty. Simeon Hager and Abner Chapman were pioneers. They married sisters -Polly and Relief Baldwin. Mr. Chapman first settled on the John Gray farm about a mile northwest of Plain City, and afterward removed to Darby Township, where he died. Mr. Hager was a renter and lived on the Chapman place; then Mr. Noteman's farm and elsewhere, and finally bought a little place just across the line in Madison, where he died. Samuel P. Morrison, about 1820, came from York County, Penn. He rented at various places in Jerome, then bought a small place about three miles south of Marysville, where he died of "milk sickness." His five children were Ann, wife of Zechariah Noteman; Nancy, wife of Samuel Snodgrass; William, now of Hancock County, Ill.; John and Alexander. Aaron Tossey was a reckless but sharp and jolly man, a chum of Simon Shover. Thomas Marshall, Thomas Gray and Martin DeWitt were early renters. Moses Harrison was a Virginian. He rented land from Frederick Sager then removed with his family to Indiana. Alexander Brown, an old bachelor from Kentucky, lived in various localities in Jerome and died here. William Cummings was a renter on the Curry farm. Jeptha Peasley moved about much. Re was an intelligent and well-liked citizen and taught school 276 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. repeatedly. He ultimately removed to parts unknown. Henry and William Wilson, two brothers, came about 1830 and settled in the northwest part of the township. Simeon Rickard, a native of Virginia, in 1828 emigrated to Darby Township, and a year later to southwestern Jerome, on the farm his son George M. Richard, now owns. He was a soldier in the war of 1812; married Mary S. Sanbower in 1813, and died in Jerome January 5, 1844. Landon Bishop emigrated from Virginia to Franklin County, Ohio, in .1824, and three years later came to Jerome Township. He was twice married and had six children by his first, and seven children by his second marriage. He was a farmer and stock-raiser and died February 22, 1860. All the above settlers located in Jerome Township prior to 1830. There are many other prominent families who settled in Jerome Township at an early day, among whom are Nelson Cone, the Beards, McCampbells, Liggetts, Gills, Flecks, Biggers, Roneys, Dodges, McKitricks, Woodburns, Foxes, Hills, Ketches and Dorths. MILLING. Various expedients and devices were employed by the first pioneers to procure meal. At first they were driven to the necessity of grinding their corn by hand with a pestle and mortar, after the Indian fashion; but at best this method would produce nothing finer than hominy. Tiring of this, the settlers would occasionally make long journeys to distant mills and bring home a precious sack of meal. Frederick Sagar, soon after his advent here, determined to erect a mill. The site selected was a few rods above the bridge on the Plain City & California pike, nearly opposite the residence of. Perry Douglas. He built the dam with the assistance of his neighbors and erected the necessary buildings. Dr. Converse says of it: "The great question was how and where he could procure the buhrs necessary to the enterprise. To go to Maine, Vermont or New York, would be both tedious and expensive. It is said that 'necessity is the mother of invention,' and, as this country in many places abounded with bowlders, he started out for a mill stone, finding one to suit on the farm now owned by John Taylor. With rude and clumsy tools, he went to work to split the bowlder open. For many days he labored incessantly with pick and drill on the unyielding rock, until at last it gave way. To dress the flinty rock into shape, required weeks of labor, but finally it was heralded that Frederick Sager's mill was in running order. For many miles around the white settlers brought their grain to the mill, and even the friendly Indians, who were scattered over the country came also, on the same errand. A few weeks later, the raising of wheat was introduced, which made it necessary for Mr. Sager to attach a flouring bolt in his mill. He procured a proper piece of sea-grass cloth, attached the same to a reel, and, placing it in the flour chest, was ready to meet the wants of the settlement. For many years the bolting was all done by hand. A few years later, he attached to his waterpower a saw mill, supplying the people with boards for their dwelling houses, which, prior to this period were made of split puncheon, smoothed and fitted with an ax. Still a little later, Mr. Sager put in operation a distillery, or still house as they were then called, for the manufacture of whisky. As peaches were almost a natural production of the country at that day, the farmers took their peach crop to his still and had them made into peach brandy. Subsequently the grist mill was purchased by Fannery Heaninway, who came to this country in 1830." This mill, however, was only what was called a "wet weather" mill. During a dry season, it could be operated only for a short, time each morning, when there was a good head of water on. Every fall the settlers were obliged JEROME TOWNSHIP. - 277 to go to the Mad River mill above Urbana or a mill on Buck Creek in Clark County. Andrew Noteman often took his grain by canoe, which was out of a solid log, to Dwyer's mill, about twelve miles below on Big Darby. Moreover, the dam of Sager's mill was made of timber and was continually getting out of repair, the water washing under it. As often as this occurred, Mr. Sager called for his neighbors to assist in repairing it, a service they were always glad to render gratuitously, because of the milling privileges thereby afforded them,. SCHOOLS. Abner Chapman was one of the first school teachers on Darby. He taught the first term in the first schoolhouse built in Jerome. It stood on land he was then occupying, on the west bank of Big Darby just above Plain City. Mr. Chapman was a Yankee and taught a number of schools. He also engaged in surveying. Clark Provin was the next teacher in the first schoolhouse. He was not so strict a disciplinarian as his predecessor, but was regarded a good teacher. John Roberts, who lived on the plains, hold a term in 1810-12, in a cabin which stood a few rods below the present residence of George M. Rickard. 'The pupils who attended here were Susanna, Nancy and William Taylor, Rhoda and Sarah Taylor, Jane and Susan McCune, James Noteman, Charles and Peerie Call and perhaps others. At New California, in 1852, principally through the efforts of Jesse Gill, a frame one-story schoolhouse was erected. The township donated $50 for the privilege of using it -for election purposes, The balance of the building fund was secured by private subscription. Select schools have been held in this building almost every year since, embracing, besides the common branches, the higher mathematics, languages, etc. These schools have been well attended and their impress is shown in the rank the teachers of Jerome have taken in this county. Among the teachers of this school were Llewellyn Curry (winter of 1852-53), Rev. I. N. Laughead, Olive Gill, Isaac Winters, David Cochran, Samuel Graham, Mr., Johnson, Thomas Evans, R. L. Woodburn, George Rhulen, Mr. McCharahan, James Curry, John Stockton, E. L. Liggett, Calvin Robinson, D. H. Cross and J. W. Baughman. The terms are of three months' duration and do not interfere with the public school terms. Many young men who have gone out into the world from Jerome Township attribute their success in life to the Superior educational advantages offered by this school. One of the best district schools in the township is the handsome two-story brick located just north of Plain City. It is about 30x50, and was built in 1879 at a cost of about $2,000. The enumeration of this district exceeds eighty. The present teachers are Misses Lorena Harper and Rosa Page. VILLAGES. The village of Frankfort, located in the extreme eastern part of Jerome Township, was laid out April 1, 1846, by William B. Irwin, County Surveyor, for Henry Beach. The original plat consisted of forty lots. Main street, sixty feet in width, extended north and south and was crossed at right angles by Town street; also sixty feet wide, and three alloys twelve feet in width. The Beach family was the only family then residing on its site. Amos and Kilburn Beach opened the first store. They also operated an extensive ashery for many years. Samuel Stout and George Bowersmith soon after started a general store, which was continued several years. William H. Case was the early innkeeper. John Evans, still a resident of the place, built one of the first houses. The village has grown slowly and now has a population of nearly two hundred. It is quite a trading place for the surrounding country, doing a large mercantile business for a village of its size. There are now 278 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. two general stores in operation, owned by H. B. Seely and Brobeck & Fox. The village also contains two blacksmith shops, one wagon shop, one harness shop and a shoe shop. It supports two churches, the Methodist and the Presbyterian. With the old log Methodist Church was connected a cemetery, which is now under the care of the Township Trustees. The school building is a substantial two-story brick. Two hotels provide for the wants of the traveler-the Preston House and the Frankfort House. The former is under the proprietorship of L. Preston; the latter of S. G. Hyland. Two medical practitioners are located in Frankfort-Drs. T. B. Asbery and John E. Herriott. The former was in practice here formerly, then removed to Columbus. About a year ago he returned to this place. Dr. Herriott, directly after completing his professional course about eight years ago, opened an office here and has practiced continuously since. Former resident physicians of Frankfort have been Drs.. Converse, Beverly, Andrews, G. H. Holland and others. The Frankfort Post Office is named Jerome, and Joseph Brobeck has present charge of the mail, which is received tri-weekly by hack from Marysville. Horace Beach was an early Postmaster. Dr. Converse filled the office in 1850. Subsequent incumbents -have been Isaac Wells, George Leasure, Hurd Lewis, S. H. Brake, W.. O'Harra, John Latham, and Joseph Brobeck, whose commission dates from 1878. Centrally located in the township is the village of Now California. The date of its origin was August 27, 1853, at which time it was platted by William B. Irwin for Samuel B. Woodburn, the proprietor. Mr. Woodburn and Dr. Albert Chapman started the first store. Reuben Cook erected the first house. Drs. Culver and Milo H. Lawrence were about the first resident physicians. Drs. Joseph S. Howland and Robert Merriman are the present dispensers of medicine. The village, though favorably situated, has not thrived. It now contains one store, owned and operated by Horace M. Dort and 'Jesse G. Curry, the former of whom is Postmaster. It also has a blacksmith shop, a small ashery, a shoe shop, one church and a new school building. Nine or ten families compose the population. PLAIN CITY. This village, now comprising a population of one thousand or more originally stood wholly in Madison County, but so close to its northern line that the natural growth of the village has caused it to encroach upon Union County soil. The first official evidence of this is the record of the addition of eight lots made to the village April 23, 1859, by Edward W. Barlow. Lots 3, 4, 5 and 6, and fractions of 2, 7 and 8 of this addition are in Union County. Pleasant Valley was then the name of the town. Of Charles Aman's Addition, made July 26, 1875, lots 8, 7 and a fraction of 6 were in Union County, Jerome Township. Within the last few years, Plain City has grown principally northward, and there are now about two hundred of its people within Jerome Township, besides a church, a carriage factory, planing mill, saw mill and grist mill. About 1868, O. C. and Zachariah McCune set in operation a frame planing mill and continued it until the year 1875, when they erected a large, handsome brick mill and filled it with new machinery at a cost of about $17,000. Its subsequent successive proprietors have been McCune & Wilson, Hensel & Herriott, Hensel & Churchman, E. C. Churchman, Swearinger & Co., and Barlow & Beech. The last-named firm acquired possession in the spring of 1880. Prior to that time, a strictly planing mill business was conducted, including the manufacture of doors, blinds, sash, etc.; the present proprietors have also engaged in the manufacture of furniture. Page 279 Blank Page 280 - Picture of Michael Sager JEROME TOWNSHIP. - 281 O. C. McCune and Clarence Board, in 1877, started the saw mill, and are still the owners. Except one country mill, it is the only one within a radius of five miles, and does an extensive business. Besides custom work, a large number of logs are purchased, converted into lumber and shipped to various points. This mill was destroyed by fire in January 1883, at a loss of several thousand dollars. It was immediately rebuilt. Harrison Harper & Co. have been engaged in the manufacture of wagons and buggies here since 1875. From twenty to twenty-five vehicles are annually manufactured and a general repair trade is maintained. Dr. W. I. Ballinger and Richard Woodruff built the Plain City flouring mill in 1873. The building is a large brick structure-and is constantly operated to its full capacity. It contains four run of buhrs and is the only grist mill in the village. Several years ago, Mr. Woodruff retired from the firm, which has since been Ballinger & Sons. Prior to 1876, the Plain City Methodist Episcopal Church was in Madison County, but in that year a lot was purchased in Jerome Township and a new brick edifice erected on it at a cost of $4,500. The church was dedicated by Dr. Payne, President of the Ohio Wesleyan University. Rev. Tressenrider was pastor in charge during its erection. His successors have been Rev. Rudesill, who remained three years; Rev. Bradrick, who remained in charge two years, and Rev. J. M. Rife, the present minister. The membership exceeds 100. A flourishing Sabbath school is maintained. This society was organized at the cabin of Andrew Noteman in Jerome, about 1812. Most of the members lived in Madison County and in a few years a block church was built across the line. The preponderance of religious sentiment in southwestern Jerome, when the first settlements were made, was of the Presbyterian hue. A congregation was organized, which has since been transplanted to Madison County soil in Plain City and still flourishes there. The church records, unfortunately, have been lost and its earliest members have long since gone to their eternal home, and in consequence the details of its earlier history are meager. The exact date of the organization of "Lower Liberty Presbyterian Church,'' as it was named, is unknown, but the best conjecture obtainable makes it about 1807. About the same time, a similar organization, 'denominated "Upper Liberty Presbyterian Church" was formed in Union Township, and the two societies were served by the same pastors for many years. Rev. Samuel Woods was the first pastor. He entered into this relation in 1808 and maintained it faithfully until his death, which occurred in 1815. From that date, Revs. William Dickey, Archibald Steele, James Hodge, D. D., Elder Hughes and others supplied the church until 1821, when Rev. James Robinson was installed pastor. He served the church seven years. Rev. Darius C. Allen was stated supply from 1829 to 1831. The year following, Rev. Benjamin Dolbear became the pastor and continued his labors with this charge until about 1838. In 1837, Lower Liberty was rent in twain by the internal dissensions then existing in this denomination. The two factions were nearly equally divided, but a slight majority favored the Old School branch. Rev. Dolbear continued with this division. His successor, Rev. William H. Galbreath, was installed October 7, 1839, serving until April 18, 1848. Rev. Benjamin Evans was the next and last pastor of this branch. In the New School division, Rev. Henry Shedd was the only settled pastor, but Rev. Kuhn and others supplied it. Among the earliest prominent members of this church were James Ewing, Joshua Ewing, David Mitchell, Jr., David Chapman and John Taylor. The early services were probably held in private houses; then in the schoolhouse, which stood on the lot where the first meeting-house was erected. This prim- 282 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. itive church stood on a lot of four acres, donated to the society by Walter Dan, and situated about a mile northwest of Plain City in the forks of the post pike and the road leading northeast to Big Darby. The building was erected as early as 1820, perhaps sooner. It was a large, unfurnished frame structure, weather-boarded but not plastered, roofed but without a chimney. The seats were only slabs, supported by rough sticks. A broad, center aisle extended lengthwise with the building, crossed near the center by another aisle, at each end of which a door was originally designed, but never inserted. The women occupied one side of this room; the men held undisputed possession of the other. The frail texture of this building may be illustrated by an incident, which, however, is not strictly ecclesiastical in its nature. In those days, it was customary for the entire family, including babies and dogs, to attend divine service. One pleasant Sabbath Day, the church was filled to overflowing it being the day appointed for administering the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. "Dog buttons" were then just coming into use, and some irreverent, unscrupulous wag scattered a quantity of them among the canines outside. They soon felt the baneful influence and, in a wild pack, frothing at the mouth, ran into the church. The cry "mad dog" was raised and the tranquil worshiping audience was instantly converted into a panic-stricken crowd, that jumped up on the benches and made every effort to escape the rabid animals which ran howling through the house. One good old lady, of matronly embonpoint, the wife of a Ruling Elder, seized an infant in each arm and in her frantic endeavors to avoid one of the approaching, now wild animals, rushed madly against the side of the room. The weather boarding gave way and she found herself the next instant outside of the pandemonium which reigned within. This old building could not be heated and was used only during the summer. In cold weather, the schoolhouse on the same lot was brought into requisition, its more limited space proving sufficient to accomodate the few members who attended in that season. In 1836, a large brick structure, 46x52, was reared on the same site. It was constructed by Mr. Gifford, of Union Township. The congregation then numbered about seventy-five. Scarcely had it taken possession of this new home when the troubles arose which produced the division. Of the four Ruling Elders then in office, James Ewing, T. M. Ewing and John Taylor adhered to the Old School, and David Chap. man united with the Now School branch. While the united congregation was strongly self-supporting, both divisions were too weak to maintain efficient organizations and struggled between life and death for about sixteen years. The Old School division kept possession of the church, but by agreement the other branch had the use of the church each alternate Sabbath. About 1853, both societies disorganized. Four years later, a reconciliation was affected among the members and a new organization entered into, which re-assumed the old name, Lower Liberty. Their church, however, was built and still stands in Plain City, Madison County, and its subsequent history by this change of location has passed from the domain of Jerome Township. At New California is the church of the Sugar Run United Presbyterian Congregation. About the year 1835, the McCampbells, Boards and Liggetts settled within the limits of what now comprises the territory of this society, and became the nucleus of the organization which was effected a few years later. Until this latter event took place, these families were in connection with the Darby congregation. The McCampbells and Beards, with some other individual members, came originally from Ebenezer and Tunber Ridge congregations of the Associate Church, in Rockbridge County, Va. In 1841, or near the close of 1840, Rev. James Wallace effected an organization at Sugar JEROME TOWNSHIP - 283 Run by, ordaining and installing as Ruling Elders William Bigger and David Board, and enrolling about thirty members. For the first two years, Rev. Robert Forester, of Reynoldsburg, ministered statedly to the people, though not installed pastor. Rev. I. N. Laughead was the first pastor. He was born in Greene County, Ohio; graduated at Franklin College, New Athens, Ohio; studied theology at the Associate Seminary at Cannonsburg, Penn.; was licensed to preach in 1838 and ordained in 1839. He became pastor of this and Darby (Unionville) congregations in April 1843, and continued in this relation till April 1864. Of his labors here, he himself says: "In these two congregations, I spent the prime of my life; and although I had my discouragements and trials, yet I suppose I had as much enjoyment and pleasure in the Lord's work here as usually falls to the lot of Christ's ministers. My two main discouragements were the scattered field I occupied, extending from the Scioto River to Little Darby Creek, and the scant support I received. I was necessitated to resort to some other means of support, and could not give my whole time to the ministry. I settled there with the promise of $300 annually, and that was not very promptly paid. It never reached over $400. I taught district and select schools. 'I labored working with my own hands.' I cannot say that I did any great things in those congregations, but this I can say, I did what I could. The Master's glory and the spiritual good of that people were by me sincerely and earnestly sought." One year after the severance of his connection with the congregation, or in April 1865, Rev. James W. Taylor accepted a call to take charge of this and Darby congregations. He continued with them until November 19, 1867. For several years the church was then without a regular minister. The third pastor was Rev. John Gilmore, installed September 12, 1871, and remaining in charge till April 15, 1874. He was succeeded by Rev. D. M. Gordon, who commenced his labors on the first Sabbath in January 1875, was regularly installed in October following, and continued till April 1878, when Rev. Ebenezer E. Cleland, the present pastor, was called. William Bigger continued to act as Ruling Elder until his removal to Springfield, Ohio, in 1863; David Beard, until his removal to Iowa. The following members have been added to the session from time to time: William -Liggett, in 1845; Thomas Robinson and David Mitchell, July 17, 1853; Walter Gowans and William McCrory, February 26, 1857; James Scott and Joseph McCampbell, in 1865; Samuel Carson and Thomas B. Arnold, in 1871-72. The following have served as Deacons: John Liggett, James I. Beard, Thomas Robinson, David Mitchell, Andrew Beard, Andrew McCampbell, J. M. Robinson and James Woodburn. Early services were held at the house of William McCampbell, Sr., but soon after a hewed-log house of worship, about 25x30 feet, was erected. It was succeeded in 1852 by the present frame church edifice, erected near the site of the old building. It is about 40x50 in size, well finished and furnished. The Sabbath school was organized about 1865, with a membership of perhaps forty. It has been continued ever since, and is at present in a prosperous and flourishing condition, with an attendance of sixty Jerome Presbyterian Church was organized at Frankfort December 16, 1853, by Rev. William H. Brinkerhoff, with the following membership: Mr. and Mrs. John Fleck, Mrs. Mary Patterson, Mrs. Maria Brinkerhoff, Templeton Liggett, Mrs. Rebecca Liggett, Mrs. Hannah McReary, Mrs. Scofield, Samuel Clark and Mrs. Nancy Clark. Templeton Liggett and John Fleck, the first Ruling Elders, were not installed until December 26, 1857. The first pastor, Rev. W. H. Brinkerhoff, served this charge until 1862. He was born in Adams County, Penn., February 3, 1803; educated at Gettysburg Academy, and at twenty 284 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. four began the study for the ministry. He was married October 27, 1835, to Maria Rowan; emigrated to Seneca County, Ohio, and settled on a farm for one year. In 1836, he began his ministerial labors by organizing a church at McCutchinsville and soon after others in neighboring schoolhouses. In 1848, he took charge of the German Reform Church at McCutchinsville, and two years later one of the same denomination at Lancaster. In 1851, he became pastor of the Worthington Presbyterian Church, where be remained till he organized the Jerome Church. He died at Waymouth, Medina County, December 11, 1871. During his ministry, he organized many congregations and assisted in the erection of church buildings with his own manual labor. At a meeting of. the Jerome congregation, held November 2, 1862, it was unanimously agreed to change the ecclesiastical relation of the congregation by becoming a Congregational Church. Soon after this action was taken, Rev. Brinkerhoff severed his connection with the church. A vacancy occurred in the pulpit for some time; then the services of Rev. Hawn, an Old School Presbyterian minister, were secured. In 1866, Rev. C. N. Coulter became pastor of this and Worthington congregations. The former at this time was weak and disorganized, and in order to reconcile denominational differences among the members and make the church acceptable to several Presbyterian families who wished to unite with it, the covenant of the New School Presbyterian Church was adopted, though the connection with the Congregational Church was maintained. Rev. Coulter continued with the congregation until October 27, 1867. Rev. A. N. Hamlin was installed pastor November 24, 1867, and remained five years. Revs. Stevenson and L. T. Mason then supplied the church for several months each, and in 1873 Rev. Hamlin was recalled, serving two years. He was succeeded by Rev. Thomas Hill, who stayed six months. Rev. N. K. Crow was the next pastor, serving several years. A vacancy for some time followed, which was terminated by the installation of the present pastor, Isaac N. Thomas, now serving his second year. The first church building, still in use, a frame building about 24x30 in size, was erected about 1856. October 7, 1877, the congregation asked to be admitted to the Presbyterian Church, and has since been connected with that denomination. Its membership is now very low, not reaching twenty. The present Elders are John Arnold and W. P. Neil. J. B. Doudna, John Arnold and Abraham Brobeck are the trustees. The first Sabbath school was organized by Rev. Coulter. It is still maintained during the summer season. The Methodist Church at Frankfort was organized about 1835. For a few years, meetings were hold at the residence of Henry Beach and other dwellings. Among the early members may be mentioned James and William Stone, John W. Halleck, Henry Beach, Joseph Wells and Jacob Frederick. A log meeting house was erected about 1842, which served the society as a place of worship until 1860, when the present frame edifice was erected. It was completed in April and dedicated April 15, 1860, by Rev. Dr. Warner. The membership at present numbers about seventy-five, This class is included in Jerome Circuit, recently formed, which, besides this charge, comprises Hyattsville and Kent's Schoolhouse in Delaware County, Watkinsville and Ketch's Schoolhouse. Rev. Chase conducted a very fruitful revival in the old log church, and among the most successful series of meetings in the present church have been those conducted by Revs. Hathaway, 'John E. Moore and Edward Rudesill. Rev. Thurston is the present minister. A Sabbath school has been in operation for a period of about forty years. In the southeastern part of the township is a Methodist Class which was organized more than twenty years ago. Henry Brobeck, Rosetta Mooney and Landen Bishop were early members. The class has never been very strong JEROME TOWNSHIP. - 286 numerically, and its places of holding services have frequently changed. About ten years ago it was changed by Rev. Samuel Donahue from Mooney Schoolhouse to the Pike Schoolhouse No. 1, and when a new Schoolhouse was erected in this district two years ago, the directors withhold permission to use it for church purposes. The society then took measures to provide itself with a suitable home. On a lot donated by S. S. Davis, a handsome brick edifice has been erected at a cost of about $2,000. It will be finished and dedicated as soon as the weather permits. The class now numbers about thirty members. GOWAN'S GUARDS. On the evening of the 24th day of April, 1861, in response to the call for the first 75, 000 volunteers, a war meeting was held in the old Seceder Church at New California. Patriotic speeches were made by many of the old citizens, and among others the Rev. B. D. Evans and Llewellyn Curry. Volunteers were called for, and the first young man to enroll his name and offer his services was David 0. Taylor, who soon after joined the Thirteenth Ohio Regiment, and, after serving his country three years with honor, was killed on the battle field of Dallas on the 27th of May 1864. About forty of the young men of the neighborhood volunteered that evening and in a few days an election was held for officers of the company, and James Cutler was elected Captain; W. L. Curry, First Lieutenant, and D. R. Cone, Second Lieutenant, Among the first to volunteer was Walter Gowans, a patriotic old Scotchman upward of sixty years of age, and in honor to him the company was named the "Gowans' Guards." The company began drilling immediately at Now California. The busy hands of mothers and sisters in a few days furnished uni. forms, consisting of red jackets and black caps. The young ladies of the neighborhood made a large silk flag, which was presented to the company. The company soon numbered about sixty volunteers, but before it was recruited to the required number to enter the service, the call was made for three years troops, and many of the boys becoming impatient to be off for the seat of war, began to enlist in companies that were being recruited more rapidly in the larger towns. The organization never entered the Service, as their ranks were rapidly decimated by these enlistments in other organizations. All but two or three of this company soon enlisted and seventeen of them died in the service. A complete roll of the company cannot be found, but by consulting members of the company the majority of the names have been obtained. Those with a star attached died in service. James Cutler, Captain; W. L. Curry, First Lieutenant; D. R. Cone, Second Lieutenant; J. D. Bain, David Bain, William Beaver, W. J. Conklin, Otway Curry, W. W. Curry, David Curry, James A. Curry,* James Curry, J. C. Cone, S. B. Cone. O. B. Cone,* William Channel,* W. H. H. Fleck, T. S. Fleck, Walter Gowans, Sr., Andrew Gowans, Alexander Gowans, William Gowans, James Gowans, * S. W. Gowans, Lewis Hoffner, James Hill,* L. J. Ketch, Lewis Ketch,* John Liggett, R. A. Liggett, B. F. Lucas,* William B. Langhead,* John Marford, James R. Mitchell, George Mitchell,* David McIntire, J. L. McCampbell, Jeff Mahaffey,* Jacob Nonemaker,* D. G. Robinson, Delmore Robinson,* C. L. Robinson, J.. B. Robinson, George Reuhlen,* David Shinneman. * James Smith, George. Stokes, Atlas Perkins, * Charles Thompson, * David 0. Taylor*, Daniel; Taylor David Wise, William Wise*, Samuel Wise. The young men of Jerome Township rallied to every call made during the war, and her quota was always filled. No draft was ever made in the township. Soldiers' families were well cared for by the old citizens at home, and about q 10,000 were paid during the last years of 286 - HISTORY OF UN10N COUNTY. the war as local bounty to recruits. The first call in Jerome Township for volunteers was for fourteen men, and the first money paid was by Thomas Jones, who paid $70, giving each of the boys $5. They went without bounty. Squire S. B. Woodburn was particularly active in raising money pay bounties and save the township from the draft, and it was to him that the citizens looked for aid when calls were made for troops. He repeatedly advanced the means to pay bounties. When the last call for troops was made, it became necessary for Jerome to furnish about $6,000 to fill her quota of men. Attempts were made to raise the amount, but they failed, and as a last resort Squire Woodburn was appointed to assess the amount. At that meeting he assessed ton men $200 each and advanced $4,000. No township in the county has a better record than Jerome. More than 340 of her citizens entered the service, and sixty-nine of them were killed or died in the army. The county official record of oaths administered to Justices of the Peace contains the following list for Jerome Township, with the dates of commissions: Clark Provin, 1821; John McCune, 1823; James Ewing, 1824; James Buck, 1825; Henry Sager, 1827; James Buck, 1828; William Long, 1832; John McCampbell, 1837; Caleb Converse, 1838; S. Snodgrass, 1839; Thomas Wason, 1839; Thomas M. Ewing, 1841; Thomas Mason, 1842; Joseph Button, 1842; Thomas M. Ewing, 1844; Perry Buck, 1845; Kilbourn Beach, 1845; Thomas M. Ewing, 1847; Perry Back, 1848; Kilbourn Beach, 1848, resigned in 1849; James B. Dort, 1850; Thomas M. Ewing, 1850; Perry Buck, 1851; I. N. Wells, 1852; Leroy F. Hager, 1853; Perry Buck, 1854; Templeton Liggett, 1855; 1. N. Wells, 1855; James Ketch, 1856; Samuel B. Woodburn, 1858; 1. N. Wells, 1858; James Ketch, 1859; Samuel B. Woodburn, 1861; I. N. Wells, 1861; James Ketch, 1862; S. B. Woodburn, 1864; I N. Wells, 1864; John Knock, 1865; James Ketch, 1866; I. N. Wells, 1867; S. B. Wood. burn, 1867; Nelson Cone, 1869; S. B. Woodburn, 1870; S. W. H. Durboraw, 11870; Nelson Cone, 1872; S. B. Woodburn, 1873; S. W. H. Durboraw, 1873; J. P. McDowel, 1875; James Ketch, 1876; S. W. H. Durboraw, 1876; James Robinson, 1878; Nelson Cone, 1870; Robert McCrory, 1879; Perry Buck, 1882; Robert McCrory, 1882; J. P. McDowell, 1882. The complete vote of Jerome for Governors of the State, has been as follows: 1822-Jeremiah Morrow, 6; Allen Trimble, 24; total, 30. 1824-Jeremiah Morrow, 11; Allen Trimble, 23; total, 34. 1826-John Bigger, 22; Allen Trimble, 7; total, 29. 1828-John W. Campbell, 23; Allen Trimble, 7; total, 30. 1830-Robert Lucas, 32. 1832-Darias Lyman, Whig, 12; Robert Lucas, Democrat, 36; total, 48. 1834-James Finley, Whig, 13; Robert Lucas, Democrat, 33; total, 46. 1836-Joseph Vance, Whig, 50; Eli Baldwin, Democrat, 15; total, 65. 1838-Joseph Vance, Whig, 60; Nelson Shannon, Democrat, 27; total, 87 1840-Thomas Corwin, Whig, 86; Nelson Shannon, Democrat, 58; total, 144. 1842-Thomas Corwin, Whig, 75; Nelson Shannon, Democrat, 43; Leicester King, Abolitionist, 7; total, 125. 1844-Mordecai Bartley, Whig, 105; David Tod, Democrat, 48; Leicester King, Abolitionist, 9; total, 162. 1846-William Bebb, Whig, 63; David Tod, Democrat, 28; Samuel Lewis, Abolitionist, 9; total, 100. 1848-Seabury Ford, Whig, 104; John B. Weller, Democrat, 57; total, 161. JEROME TOWNSHIP. - 287 1850-William Johnson, Whig, 101; Reuben Wood, Democrat, 69; Edward Smith, Abolitionist, 16; total, 186. 1851 -Samuel F. Vinton, Whig 71; Reuben Wood, Democrat, 42; Samuel Lewis, Abolitionist, 24; total, 137. 1853-Nelson Barrere, Whig, 74; William Medill, Democrat, 62; Samuel Lewis , Abolitionist, 34; total, 170. 1855-Salmon P. Chase, Fusion, 97; William Medill, Democrat, 21; Allen Trimble, Know-Nothing, 32; total, 150. 1857-Salmon P. Chase, Republican, 106; H. B. Payne, Democrat, 45; P. Van Trump, Know-Nothing, 3; total, 154. 1859-William Dennison, Republican, 98; R. P. Ranney, Democrat, 71; total, 169. 1861-David Tod, Republican, 132; H. J. Jewett, Democrat, 84; total, 216. 1863-John Brough, Republican, 204; C. L. Vallandigham, Democrat, 84; total, 288. 1865-J. D. Cox, Republican, 149; George W. Morgan, Democrat, 96; total, 243. 1867-R. B. Hayes, Republican, 176; Allen G. Thurman, Democrat, 117; total, 293 1869--R. B. Hayes, Republican, 163; G. H. Pendleton, Democrat, 102; total, 265. 1871-E. F. Noyes, Republican, 153; O. W. McCook, Democrat, 94; total, 247. 1873-E. F. Noyes, Republican, 106; William Allen, Democrat, 91; J. C. Collins, Liberal Republican, 2; T. Stewart, Prohibition, 9; total, 208. 1875-R. B. Hayes, Republican, 187; William Allen, Democrat, 126; total, 313. 1877-William H. West, Republican, 186; R. M. Bishop, Democrat, 131; H. A, Thompson, Prohibition, 5; total, 322. 1879-Charles Foster, Republican, 207; Thomas Ewing, Democrat, 148; G. T. Stewart, Prohibitionist, 14; total, 369. 1881-Charles Foster, Republican, 163; J. W. Bookwalter, Democrat, 131; A. R. Ludlow, Prohibition, 31; total, 325. For President, 1876, R. B. Hayes received 208 votes; Samuel J. Tilden, 139; total, 342. In 1880, James A. Garfield received 216; W. S. Hancock, 153; and the Greenback candidate, 2; total, 371. The original surveys which compose Jerome Township, their areas, original proprietors, surveyors and dates of survey are as follows: No. 419, 1,200 acres, William Brown, James Galloway, Jr., March 2, 1807. No. 1,440, 1,000 acres, James Curry, James Galloway, January 21, 1807. No. 2,365, 6662/3 acres, Thomas Parker, Nathaniel Massie, June 5, 1797, partly in Delaware County. No. 2,925, 6,663 2/3 acres, Beverly Roy, Nathaniel Massie, June 5, 1797. No. 2,990, 666 acres, John Phillips, Nathaniel Massie, June 5, 1797, partly in Delaware County. No. 2,991, 1,330 acres, John Phillips, Nathaniel Massie, June 5, 1797, partly in Delaware County. No. 3,003, 174 acres, William Crogan, Joseph Kerr, December 22, 1814 partly in Delaware County. No. 3,005, 666 2/3 acres, Peter Talbot, Nathaniel Massie, June 3, 1797. No. 3,009, Robert Means, mostly in Franklin County. 288 - HISTORY OF UNION COUNTY. No. 3,014, 199 acres, H. Gilman, Nathaniel Massie, June 3, 1797, partly in Delaware County. No. 3,244, 200 acres, William Annis, James Galloway, Jr., November 18, 1807. No. 3,452, 650 acres, William Barksdale, James Galloway, Jr., March 18, 1810, partly in Franklin County. No. 3,452, 350 acres, William Barksdale, James Galloway, Jr., March 1, 1810. No. 3,475, 410 acres, Robert Woodcock, James Galloway, Jr., December 25, 1820. No. 3,484, 800 acres, Lucas Sullivant, Lucas Sullivant March 4, 1799. No. 3,685, 666 2/3 acres, Lucas Sullivant, Lucas Sullivant, September 18, 1799. No. 3,686, 1,000 acres, Lucas Sullivant, Lucas Sullivant, September 18, 1799. No. 3,743, 600 acres, Robert Means, Lucas Sullivant, September 17, 1799. No. 3,750, 100 acres, Thomas Snead, Lucas Sullivant, September 30, 1799. No. 3,754, 400 acres, Charles Simms, Lucas Sullivant, September 30, 1799. No. 5,126, 470 acres, Alexander Kerr, James Galloway, Jr., January 22, 1807. No. 5,128, 80 acres, Alexander Kerr, James Galloway, Jr., January 23, 1807. No. 5,132, 600 acres, James Galloway, Jr., James Galloway, Jr., January 22, 1807. No. 5,133, 190 acres, James Galloway, Jr., and John Goode, James Galloway, January 21, 1807. No. 5,134, 533 2/3 acres, John Pride, James Galloway, Jr., January 21, 1807. No. 5,143, 100 acres, Terence Doren, James Galloway, Jr., January 21, 1807. No. 5,144, 50 acres, Richard C. Anderson, James Galloway, Jr., February 28, 1807. No. 5,144, 50 acres, Richard Jones, James Galloway, Jr., February 28, 1807. No. 5,162, 800 acres, Robert Means, James Galloway, Jr., March 27, 1807, mostly in Delaware and Franklin Counties. No. 5,166, 2,000 acres, Robert Means, James Galloway, Jr., March 2, 1807. No. 5,167, 200 acres, James Galloway and others; James Galloway, Jr., February 21, 1807, partly in Madison County. No. 5,234, 600 acres, Robert White, James Galloway, Jr., November 18, 1807. No. 5,238, 200 acres, Lucas Sullivant, James Galloway, Jr., April 25, 1807. No. 5,261, 466 2/3 acres, Henry Bidinger, James Galloway, Jr., November 18, 1807. No. 5,417, 300 acres, Nathan Lamme, James Galloway, Jr., December 21, 1807. No. 5,611, 360 acres, Thomas Bayly, James Galloway, Jr., June 14 1807. No. 5,724, 295 acres, John Baird, James Galloway, Jr., February 23, 1808. No. 6,310, 280 acres, William Pelham, James Galloway, Jr., September 10, 1809. No. 6,420, 346 2/3 acres. William Barlow. James Galloway Jr. March 29, Page 289 - Picture of Robert Hill Page 290 Blank JEROME TOWNSHIP. - 291 No. 6,581, 450 acres, John Galloway, James Galloway, Jr., January 12, 1810. No. 6,595, 277 1/2 acres, Thomas Parker, James Galloway, Jr., March 27, 1810. No. 6,596, 277 1/2 Thomas M. Bayly, James Galloway, Jr., March 28, 1810. No. 6,748, 555 acres, John Anderson, James Galloway, Jr., June 7, 1810, mostly in Franklin County. No. 6,954, 320 acres, representatives of Anthony J. Dixon, James Galloway, Jr., July 9, 1811, mostly in Madison County. No. 7,058, 400 acres, James M. Galloway, James Galloway, Jr., April 23, 1811. No. 7,073, 526 2/3 acres, Richard 1. Waters, James Galloway, Jr., April 24, 1811. No. 7,074, 800 acres, John Crawford, James Galloway, Jr., April 29, 1811. No. 7,181, 200 acres, Walter Dan, Walter Dun, November 17, 1811. No. 7,029, 38 acres, Lucas Sullivant, James Galloway, Jr., May 1, 1812. No. 7,390, 45 acres, John Graham, Walter Dun, August 29, 1812. Nos. 7,751 and 7,754, 447 acres, Walter Dun, Walter Dan, July 1, 1813, partly in Darby Township and Madison County. Nos. 7,758 and 7,830, 168 acres, John Graham and G. Scroggs, Walter Dun, July 21, 1813. Nos. 9,367 and 10, 614, 149 acres, James Galloway, Jr., James Galloway, Jr., January 20, 1821. No. 9,736. 407 acres, James Galloway, Jr., Benjamin W. Ladd and James Barnett, James Galloway, Jr., November 18, 1818. No. 10,620, 51 acres, John Messenburg, James Galloway, Jr., January 19, 1821. No. 10,708, 94 acres, William Sullivant, Michael L. and Joseph Sullivant, heirs of Lucas Sullivant, Matthew Bonner, September 22, 1831. No. 12,125, 63 acres, S. Whitehead, survey not recorded. For much valuable assistance kindly rendered in the preparation of Jerome Township history, thanks are due to Col. W. L. Curry, Robert McCrory, Lewis C. Curry and others. (RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE)