HISTORY OF VAN WERT COUNTY. INTRODUCTION. John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wert were soldiers of the Revolutionary war, and the three incorruptible patriots who arrested Major Andre. When he found that he was discovered he offered his gold watch and any amount in cash or dry goods to these three soldiers if they would permit him to escape. All his offers were rejected with disdain, and they declared that 10,000 guineas or any other sum would be no temptation. It was to their virtue, no less glorious to America, than Arnold's apostacy was disgraceful, that his treason was discovered. Posterity will repeat with reverence their names, and Ohio has named counties to perpetuate their memories. John Paulding died at Strasburg, New York, December 30, 1819, aged 87. David Williams was a native of Tarrytown, N. Y., but of his life little has been recorded. Isaac Van Wert resided near Tarrytown, N. 'Y., and at the time of his death in 1828 was 68 years of age. As a reward for their virtue and fidelity, Congress, on November 3, 1780, adopted the following preamble and resolution :- Whereas Congress has received information that John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wert, three young volunteer militiamen Of the State of New York, did on the 23d day of September last, intercept Major John Andre, Adjutant-General of the British army, on his return from the American lines, in the character of a spy, and notwithstanding the large bribes offered for his release, nobly disdaining to sacrifice their country for the sake of gold, secured and conveyed him to the commanding officer of the district, whereby the dangerous and traitorous signs of Benedict Arnold was brought to light, the insidious de- signs of the enemy baffled, and the United States rescued from impending danger : Resolved, That Congress has a high sense of the virtues and patriotic conduct of the said John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wert: in testimony whereof, Ordered, That each of them receive annually, out of the public treasury, two hundred dollars in specie, or an equivalent in the current money of these States, during life, and that the Board of War procure for each of them a silver medal, on one side of which shall be a shield with this inscription : "Fidelity," and on the other the following motto: " Vincit amor Patriæ,"* and forward them to the Commander-in-Chief, who is requested to present the same, with a copy of this resolution and the thanks of Congress for their fidelity and the eminent service they have rendered their country. At the burial place of each a marble monument has been erected, while another marks the spot where Andre was arrested. THE COUNTY. Van Wert County is bounded on the north by Paulding, east by Allen, south by Auglaize and Mercer counties, and west by the State of Indiana. The county is divided into twelve townships, named Tully, Union, Hoaglin, Jackson, Washington, Jennings, York, Liberty, Will-shire, Harrison, Pleasant, and Ridge. The whole face of the country is level, and so was naturally wet, which, taken in connection with the heavy forests under which the land was groaning, rendered the difficulties and hardships of pioneer life * " The Love of Country Conquers." - 17 - almost insupportable. A great many of the early settlers turned their attention to the chase as the only certain method of gaining a subsistence. Neither was this a precarious mode of subsistence, for, owing to the variety and abundance of game, hunting and trapping was rewarded by the procurement of the real necessaries of life. Statistics show that by these pursuits a large revenue was derived, and through this alone the settlers were enabled to pay their taxes. The land was a wilderness, requiring years in clearing, and even then the surface water had to be contended with in order to produce a crop. Thus if a field was cleared and planted the natural drainage was so poor that the crop must struggle slowly along, perhaps to be finally drowned out. Artificial drainage was impracticable. as it must of necessity be purely local, for the wealth of the county would not justify that extensive drainage which later years alone could accomplish. As a result no surplus grain was produced, neither would its production have proved very profitable, owing to the distance from markets and the inferior modes of transportation. This latter must have been accomplished by wagons, and as yet no roads were provided over which a load could be drawn. The old trails opened paths in the direction of two or three of the nearest, yet distant settlements. There was thus little at the beginning to induce the settlers to produce anything beyond a supply for their own necessities, as it must first be attended by great toil, and then, for want of a market, prove unprofitable. Take these conditions anywhere, and development will move slowly under their discouraging influence. The immediate outlook was unpromising, but the pioneer was made of stuff too hardy and too brave to be discouraged by the hardships of his lot: He had deliberately weighed the matter, and after coming here was not to become despondent in the presence of the very conditions he had anticipated. He was hardy and industrious, but he could wait as well as work, and the unity of those attributes, labor and continuance, enabled the settler to triumph over nature's wilds, and so wrought that great transformation which produced garden and fruitful fields from the wild, unbroken, and unpromising wilderness. The pioneer, then, although driven at the first in search of game upon which to subsist, did not allow his confidence in the future to waver, but kept up a warfare with the forests themselves, clearing a little here and a little there, until he was no longer dependent upon the gun, but substituted the cultivation of the soil for the pursuit of game. Such was the condition of things until 1845, when the opening of the Miami Canal Extension, offered transportation facilities to the great markets and stimulated the farmers to greater exertion under a promise of pecuniary reward. This opened a new era, marked by industry and enterprise, for the very forests became a source of revenue. The timber itself became valuable, and the farmer, while clearing his land, found the timber valuable enough to more than pay the expense of clearing. So as this source of profit was exhausting, the land was clearing and increasing crops added a new source of profit. The natural result was a fresh impetus to farming, the almost inexhaustible fertility of the soil was realized, and the possessor of 80 or 160 acres looked about him, and with an appreciation of the opportunities afforded to acquire wealth, took courage anew, and putting his hand to the plow, inaugurated that period of agricultural development which has given the county its present prominent rank in the agricultural sections of the State. Development made rapid strides, timber was cleared away, fences constructed, and farming commenced on a larger scale, to be supplemented by that general system of drainage which still goes forward, reclaiming from the waste of water, farm after farm of land as fertile as the State can boast. - (131) - 132 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. So great were the productive energies of the county that the canal, with all its facilities, proved insufficient in a short time, and the demands for other methods of transportation became the demands of the hour. The outgrowth of this demand was a projected railroad, the necessity and utility of which induced the citizens to embark in the project which resulted in the construction of the "Ohio and Indiana Railroad," across the county from east to west. Through the influence and efforts of Robert Gilliland, R. Conn, J. Gleason, E. R. Wells, Reuben Frisbie, M. Mumaugh, C. P. Edson, P. De Puy and others, the railroad company was induced to locate the road through the county on consideration of the citizens taking stock to the amount of $50,000. This stock was duly subscribed and the road was completed to Van Wert in 1853. The extra transportation facilities opened the way for manufactories of different kinds, thus introducing a new branch of industry. Forests faded away as walnut, oak, and poplar timber increased in value, and found a ready market. The value of real estate rose by bounds, until land which was held at from three to four dollars per acre, found ready sale at from ten to fifteen dollars. Such are the advantages of railroads to a new community, one road stimulating agriculture and manufactories until their increased products create demands for new roads as outlets for a growing surplus of farm and shop productions. But we turn from this feature and these causes of development, as that will be found elaborately treated elsewhere under their proper heads. Let us first consider the natural appearance and indications of the territory aside from any view of material development. Looking at the country topographically, we find a general slope or dip toward the northeast, in the direction of Lake Erie. The-inclination of this dip is an average of about ten feet to the mile. All discoveries indicate the entire submergence of a large portion of Northwest Ohio, at some period prior to the historic era. It is an indisputable fact, everywhere admitted, that this section was embraced within the area of a large lake or inland sea. Beyond this all must yet be left to the domain of conjecture Perhaps the great chain of northern lakes consisted of one body so extended that it embraced this portion of the State that bears such indisputable evidence of submergence during unnumbered and countless ages. But this trenches upon the subject of geology elsewhere treated at length, and we turn aside with the single observation that Sugar Ridge in this county, and extending away in a northeastward and northwestward direction, undoubtedly served for a certain period as the southern shore-line of the great lake which has finally settled northward and formed into Lake Erie. MOUNDS. This subject being elaborately treated under the heading, "The Mound Builders," it is only our purpose here to briefly describe what are known as the local " Indian mounds." Two of these were found in this county, the one designated as the "Oliver Stacey," and the other as the " Van Wert" mound. The Stacey mound, found in Washington Township, was circular in form, seven feet in altitude and twenty-five feet in diameter. Although Judge Stacey would not consent to its examination, it was visited by a party from Van Wert, who, upon opening it, found human bones and some copper implements. The size and general appearance of the bones would refer them back to the race which preceded the Indians in their occupancy of the territory. The copper implements bear out the same idea of construction by the race of Mound Builders. The Van Wert mound was a small circular construction, occupying the present site of the "De Puy House" in Van Wert. It was opened in 1843 by John Hahn, and found to contain human bones, so far decayed, that they crumbled on exposure to the air. When the excavation for the cellar of the hotel was made, this mound was entirely removed. Nothing was then discovered, except some wood ashes and a few crumbled remains of human bones. RELICS. Many relics have been found in the county, especially along Sugar Ridge, but these are all of the minor class, consisting of stone axes, arrow heads, wedges, and other small flint implements and ornaments, descriptions of which will be found in the chapter relating to the 114 Builders. EARLY INCIDENTS. At an early day an Indian was arrested and tried for murder. He found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to five years' imprisons in the penitentiary. Rather than undergo this punishment he requested to be shot, which request, of course, could not be granted. He fin asked permission to exercise about the commons before being take, State prison. Sheriff Kear granted this request, when the chief r the security of the prisoner. In due time he returned to the jail was afterward taken to the penitentiary, from which lie was pardoned order that he might accompany his tribe to the west. He was probe the first person sent to State prison from this county. Samuel S. Brown lived about three miles east of Van Wert, having b a cabin here in 1839. On one occasion he went to Shanesville, lean his wife and five children at home. That evening three drunken Indians, entered the cabin and compelled Mrs. Brown to give them supper. T. then danced and sang songs and whooped about in frantic glee, finally left without harming the family. Mrs. Brown was so frighten that she locked the doors and watched all night, rifle in hand, determined to receive no more unwelcome intruders, but she was not again molest Acting upon the suggestions of the occasion, however, she afterw practised with the rifle until she became an expert markswoman. While hunting "coons" one night, Wm. Davis had an encounter a large bear. Having reached a hollow tree, which he thought bore evidence of having been climbed by a raccoon, he felled the tree and ried to the part which had been broken, upon reaching which he was e fronted by a large bear, which bounded toward him, uttering a sal' growl. Having his axe in hand, he struck the bear a blow which stall' it sufficiently to enable him to retreat a little distance. At this moon his dog rushed upon the bear, but only to receive a blow from the bear's paw, when bruin took flight, leaving Mr. Davis and his clog to pursue their hunt for " coons." Among the early hunters was John Thatcher, who was also a trader in pelts and furs. While he was on a little trading trip among the camps his wife prepared to perpetrate a practical joke upon him its as he would return. So she killed and skinned a large black cat. then cut the tail from the fur, and in its place attached the tall mink taken from one of the mink skins then on hand. She next sue:- the hide very nicely, and on the return of her husband told him she purchased a very nice mink skin, for which she had paid with her own money. Not discovering the trick, Mr. Thatcher paid her three dolls and called it a good bargain. At one time the Government agent at Fort Wayne employed John Thatcher and another man to carry some money belonging to the government to some point from which it could be sent by stage to Washington. The money was packed in boxes and taken by boat up the Marys River. They were overtaken by night, between Fort Wayne a Wiltshire, and concluded to camp. About sunset, however, they a several men hanging about in view, yet apparently trying to eva observation. Being satisfied they were awaiting an opportunity attack and rob the boat, Thatcher and his companion pushed ahead a rapid rate a distance of about two miles, where they fastened the boy which they abandoned and with the money boxes in their arms pass deep in the woods, where they spent the night, thus escaping from the robbers. In the morning they returned to their boat, resumed their way unmolested, and accomplished their mission. About the years 1838-9 money matters were very close, and raccoon skins became legal tender even for the payment of taxes. As a conquence many of the settlers, armed with rifle and axe, and accompanied by their dogs, gave their attention very largely to the business of hit ing. In the spring of 1839, a good raccoon skin sold for $1.12½ ; skins brought $2.50 while venison sold at 20 cents per pound. HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 133 MURDER TRIAL. The first trial for a capital crime resulted in the conviction of Daniel McGraw, who was executed. The murder occurred at the grocery of a man named Gollivei, near the present town site of Delphos, who with his wife and son were the principal witnesses for the State. In a, drunken fight which occurred at this store a man named ______ received injuries which proved fatal about three days later. Daniel McGraw, a young Irishman, apparently about twenty-five years of age, of pleasant appearance and auburn hair, was at once arrested and held for trial. He entered the plea of self-defence, but pending trial he was taken to Lima and incarcerated, as the jail at Van Wert was not considered safe. At the time of his arrest he bore terrible marks of violence, his jaw being broken and his head bearing fearful wounds, telling of an assailant who inflicted almost mortal blows. When the time came for trial McGraw was brought from Lima and was held in charge by Sheriff Thomas R. Kear. Judge Goode presided during the trial, and after the case was called the prisoner entered a plea of self-defence. After hearing the case the jury retired, and after deliberating all night brought in a verdict of guilty of murder in the first degree. This fell as a shock on the community, as none had dared believe the prisoner would suffer greater punishment than a short term of imprisonment. The death sentence was passed by Judge Goode and the prisoner remanded to jail to await execution. Here he remained about six months, during which time he became much attached to Sheriff Kear and his family. Mrs. Kear, to whom the tragedy proved almost a deathblow, remembers the prisoner well and speaks of him as becoming so familiar, kind, and cheerful, as to "appear like one of the family." During the whole period of his confinement he exhibited a fortitude and composure which left a favorable and sympathetic impression with all who saw him. Resigning himself to his fate, he only consoled himself by the thought, oft expressed, that "The Lord will avenge his own." The night previous to his execution the inclosure erected by the sheriff was torn down and carried off by crowds who had congregated during the day from distant parts in order to be present at the execution. The scaffold was therefore openly exposed, as neither time nor material were at command to construct a new inclosure at the side of the small log Jail. When the condemned man took his leave of Mrs. Kear, the wife of the sheriff and other members of the family, he still preserved his cheerful expression, spoke kindly to Mrs. Kear, and observed it had been his intention to speak from the scaffold, but he was then so convinced of the prejudice of the public against him that he had concluded it useless to say anything, and so abandoned his original intention. He was attended by a minister of the M. E. Church, who spoke and prayed from the scaffold. To the last he denied any deeper guilt than that of acting in self-defence. When death ensued his body was taken in charge and buried by the county, but fate held in store for his corpse the very thing he dreaded and the very thing lie had asked might be prevented, for the very same night his body was taken up and found its way to the dissecting-table, although he had declared he would not have that occur for ten thousand worlds. Indeed, this appeared the only thing he dreaded, and it affected him to deep emotion, when death itself seemed to have lost all its terrors. This was the first and last execution in the county, and was looked upon at the time by many as a tragedy, which foreboded evil to the whole community. WOLVES. The early pioneers had to contend with the annoyances and losses to which they were subjected by the depredations of large numbers of wolves which infested the wilds of this and the adjoining counties. The commissioners of Van Wert offered a, bounty for the scalp of each wolf killed within the county. The killing had to be proved before the clerk of the courts, who issued a warrant payable at the State treasury. This certificate was taken by the county treasurer in payment of taxes, and by him paid over to the State in his annual return. We give a statement from the official records of Van Wert County, called the "wolf book," showing the date and amounts paid:— Dec. 1837. Scalps $17 00 Feb. to Dec. 1838. " 107 75 Jan. to Oct. 1839. " 124 30 Jan. to Dec. 1840. " 72 25 Jan. to Dec. 1841. " 91 00 Jan. to Dec. 1842. " 107 50 Jan. to Nov. 1843. " 77 00 Jan. to Dec. 1844. " 93 50 Jan. to Sep. 1845. " 71 50 Jan. to Dec. 1846. " 31 25 May to Dec. 1847. " 38 25 Jan. to Nov. 1848. " 46 75 Feb. to Oct. 1859. " 46 25 Feb. to Nov. 1850. Scalps $31 25 Feb. to Nov. 1851. " 8 50 May to Dec. 1852. " 35 75 Jan. to May 1853. " 57 47 Ap’l. to Nov. 1854. " 35 25 Mar. to Dec. 1855. " 21 25 Jan. to Dec. 1856. " 37 00 A pl. to Aug. 1857. " 53 25 Feb. to Dec. 1858. " 29 75 Jan. to April 1859. " 21 25 Jan. to Nov. 1860. " 4 25 In October 1870. " 15 00 $1273 37 Average amount paid for each scalp $4. Over three hundred and eighteen were killed. TAXES. The taxes collected for school purposes in 1839 amounted to $29.87. Amount paid into State treasury on State levies $55.33. The county drew from the State for school purposes $114.93. In 1840 the taxable land amounted to 11,168 acres. In addition to this there were 312 horses and 663 head of cattle subject to taxation, making a total valuation of taxable property of $73,510. Total tax levied thereon $1102 65 or fifteen mills on the dollar. VOTERS IN 1839. The whole number of ballots cast in 1839 was 232. The different township votes were as follows: Willshire, 86; Ridge, 35 ; Harrison, 21 ; Jennings, 54; and Pleasant, 36. EARLY PROCEEDINGS OF THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS. Willshire, Van Wert County, Ohio. At a special meeting of the Commissioners for the county of Van Wert, at the town of Willshire, on the twenty-ninth day of April, A. D. 1835, were present: Jesse Atkinson and Joshua Goodwin, Commissioners ; and, the certificates of election being examined, the Board organized for the transaction of business. There being no auditor present, the Board appointed Ansel Blossom special clerk for the present session. It appearing to the satisfaction of the Commissioners that John Mark, who was elected assessor of this county, is a non-resident, it is deemed that said office is vacant; and thereupon the Board appointed .John Keith assessor, to serve until the next annual election, and it is ordered that said Keith, on executing his bond in the penalty of two thousand dollars, to be approved by any one of the Commissioners in vacation, and being sworn, proceed to execute the duties enjoined on him by law. And the Board adjourned without day. Signed,  JESSE ATKINSON, JOSHUA GOODWIN, Commissioners. At a session of the Commissioners holden at Willshire on the fifth clay of June, 1837: present, Jesse Atkinson and Joshua Goodwin, Commissioners, Daniel D. Cross appearing, presented his certificate of election as auditor, with an endorsement thereon that he had been sworn into office and forthwith executed his bond to the acceptance of the board in the penalty of two thousand dollars, with William Case and Ansel Blossom his securities, and entered upon the duties of his office. William Case appeared and presented his certificate of election and oath of office as treasurer, and executed his bond in the penalty of four thousand dollars, with D. D. Cross, Ansel Blossom, Peter Bolenbaugher, and John Johnson his securities. Ordered, that the auditor take and keep the treasurer's bond as executed, and that the treasurer in like manner preserve the bond of the auditor; and said bonds were respectively delivered for safe keeping. On the petition of certain citizens of that part of the county known as Sugar Ridge, it is ordered that Town Two, South of Range Two East, 134 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. be set off as a civil township under the name of Pleasant, and that Town One, South of Range One and Two, and the North half of Town Two, South of Range One East, be attached thereto for township purposes, and that the auditor by proper notices notify the electors in said township to elect their township officers, at the house of James Maddox, on the twentieth day of June, 1837, at the time and in the manner prescribed by law. William Priddy appeared, produced his certificate of election as commissioner, and took his seat. A petition for a new township, to be set off and called Ridge, being presented, it is ordered that Township Number One and Two in Ranges Number Three and Four, be organized under the name of Ridge Township, and that when said territory shall again be divided Town Two, in Range Three, shall hold the name, and it is ordered that the auditor notify the electors to meet for the election of township officers at the house of William Priddy, on the fourth Saturday in June next. Ordered that Township Number Three, South in Ranges Number Three, and Four East, be continued and known as Jennings Township. Ordered that Township Number Three of Ranges Number One, and Two East, and the south half of Township Number Two South of Range Number One, be organized as Wiltshire Township. The assessor presented his list of taxable property for examination, and after a careful examination of the same do find no particular error in said list, and that the said assessor be allowed one dollar and fifty cents per day in taking the assessment. Ordered that an order be issued upon the treasurer for the aforesaid amount. The meeting then adjourned until to-morrow morning at 8 A. M. June 6th, A. D. 1837. Met according to adjournment and proceeded to business. First, to levy the percentum necessary to defray the ex. penses of the county for the present year. Ordered that one and one-fourth per cent. be assessed on the dollar for State, Canal, School, and County purposes for the present year, and that the auditor in making out his duplicates, divide the amounts, so as to give the State, canal, and school their several claims, and the remainder for county purposes. Ordered, that whenever it becomes necessary to advertise any matter in the public paper, and as there is none printed in said county, the same may be done by posting up written notices, one in each township within the county by the auditor thereof. There being something near seven hundred dollars in the treasury of the old county Mercer, belonging to Van Wert County for road purposes, it is therefore ordered that the same be expended on the public roads in said county, in the manner here provided; fifty dollars on the road from St. Marys to Fort Wayne, in finishing a bridge erected across Duck Creek, in Willshire Township. Three hundred dollars to be expended on the Bucyrus road to Fort Wayne, commencing on the east side of the county. One hundred and twenty-five dollars to be expended on the road from Shanesville to Defiance, within said county. One hundred on a county road leading from Shanesville to a certain stone quarry in Jenning's Township. Seventy-five dollars in opening a certain county road from Guilford to Jenning's prairie, in the aforesaid county. Ordered, that the commissioners of said county serve as road commissioners to expend the several sums above described, according to law, in such case. Ordered, that an order be issued to the treasurer of Van Wert County, on the treasurer of Mercer County, for the proper proportion of the money in said county treasury belonging to Van Wert County, for road purposes, or their proportion of the three per cent. fund. Ordered, that notices be given to the commissioners of Mercer County that the commissioners of Van 'Wert County are authorized by law to call on said commissioners for settlement, agreeable to law in such cases. Having no other business to transact the meeting adjourned. Signed, WILLIAM PRIDDY, JOSHUA GOODWIN, JESSE ATKINSON Joseph Johnson, Henry Reichard, and William H. Purdy were elect Commissioners of Van Wert County at the late annual election, I were severally sworn by Ansel Blossom, Clerk C. C. P., of said coin on the 10th day of November, 1837, to discharge the duty of such oft during their continuance in office, faithfully and impartially, and to support the Constitution of the United States and the State of Ohio. St. Marys, Mercer Co., Nov. 13, 1837. Special session convened the purpose of settling with the Commissioners of Mercer County, agreeable to previous notice. Were present: William H. Purdy, He: Reichard, Commissioners of Van Wert County. There being no auditor present the board appointed John F. Dodds special clerk for the present session. Mercer County Commissioners present: Samuel Ruckman, Picket Doute ; Franklin Linzee, Auditor. The board of commissioners of the said counties of Van Wert and Mercer, upon an examination of the books, exhibits, and vouchers, find that there is due to the county of Van Wert, and now in the ham of the treasurer of Mercer County the following sums: Three per cent and road funds, $841.36; school funds, $25.84. Also, an additional s of three per cent. school funds in the hands of Samuel Ruckman, $38. which sum is to be paid to Henry Reichard and William H. Purdy the order of the auditor of Mercer County. The auditor of Mercer County is also directed by the commission of said county to issue the following orders on the treasurer of Mer County in favor of the treasurer of Van Wert County. One being full of the three per cent. funds, $825.85; one being in full of road fin due said county, $15.50; and one being in full of school funds due s county, $25.84. 1 Also, an order on Samuel Ruckman in favor of the commissioned Van Wert County for the stun of $38.75, being in full of three (3) percent, funds in his hands due said county. And thereupon the commissioners present agreed upon finding the foregoing to be an adjustment and settlement of accounts between Wert and Mercer counties, and that said counties shall henceforth no claims each upon the other for three per cent. or other funds. Signed, HENRY REICHARD WILLIAM H. PURDY SAMUEL RUCKMAN. PICKET DOUTE. Attest—FRANKLIN LINZEE, Auditor. I, Franklin Linzee, Auditor of Mercer County, do hereby certify the above to be a correct copy of the final settlement between the commissioners of Van Wert and Mercer counties, at St. Marys, Nov. 13, 1837 FRANKLIN LINZEE, Auditor, Mercer County, Attest—JoHN F. DODDS, Clerk. At a session of the commissioners of Van Wert County, Ohio, veiled at Willshire, Dec. 4, 1837. Present: Henry Reichard,WillamA Purdy, Joseph Johnson. John F. Dodds, Auditor. John F. Dodds upon being appointed to fill the vacancy occasioned, by the resignation of Daniel D. Cross, was duly sworn into office amd forthwith executed his bond to the acceptance of the board, in the penal sum of two thousand dollars, with James G. Gilliland and James M. Young as sureties, and entered upon the duties of his office. Eli Compton appeared, presented his certificate of election, and oath of office as County Assessor, and executed his bond in the penal sum, two thousand dollars, with Ansel Blossom and Amos Compton as securities. Accepted by the board and deposited with the auditor. James G. Gilliland appeared, presented his certificate of election and oath of office as County Treasurer for the term of two years from after the first Monday in June, and executed his bond in the penalty of four thousand dollars, with Peter Wills, James M. Young, and John F. Dodds as securities, which was accepted and deposited as the law directs. At the late session held at St. Marys the Commissioners found a balance of thirty-eight dollars and seventy-five cents of the three percent, fund in the hands of Samuel Ruckmann for which the auditor of Mercer County issued an order in favor of the Commissioners of Van Wert. Upon subsequent examination it was ascertained that there HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 135 an error of one dollar, and that the actual sum was thirty-seven dollars and seventy-five cents (37.75), which sum was drawn upon said order by H. Reichard. Henry Reichard, after deducting six dollars which he paid John F. Dodds for services as clerk at St. Marys, and four dollars and fifty cents which he paid William H. Purdy for services as Commissioner, and six dollars as a compensation allowed for his own services, paid over to the treasurer, Wm. Case, the balance, which is twenty-one dollars and twenty-five cents. Ordered, that John F. Dodds receive an order on the treasurer for three dollars, it being a sum expended by him for a book of records. The treasurer received of H. Reichard three different orders on the treasurer of Mercer County, as follows : one for eight hundred and twenty-five dollars and eighty-five cents, three per cent. fund ; one for fifteen dollars and fifty cents, road funds; and one for twenty-five dollars and eighty-four cents, school fund. The Board then adjourned sine die. JOSEPH JOHNSON, HENRY REICHARD, WILLIAM H. PURDY, Commissioners of Van Wert Co. JOHN F. DODDS, Auditor. Willshire, Jan. 1st, 1838. Convened with William Case, treasurer, Ansel Blossom, clerk for auditor, for the purpose of settling up all accounts for the year 1837, and upon examining the duplicate orders, redeemed vouchers for the three per cent. road and school funds, do find the aggregate amount of three per cent. road and school funds, and county, school, State, and canal tax now remaining in the treasury to be $969.24 1/2. (For items see Book B, page 16.) JOHN F. DODDS, Auditor of Van Wert County. Willshire, Van Wert County, March 5, 1838. At a session of the Commissioners convened at Willshire March 5, 1838, John F. Dodds appeared and gave bond to the acceptance of the Board, with William Priddy, Oliver Stacey, and James Maddox as sureties, was qualified and entered upon the duties of his office as auditor. A petition being presented and read from certain citizens in Willshire and Pleasant townships praying for the location and establishment of a road, to Commence at Willshire and to run from thence. on the nearest and most suitable ground to the town of Van Wert; and as John F. Dodds and Charles Mount have entered into bonds for all costs and expenses arising from a view and survey of the same unless the same shall become a public highway, it is hereby ordered: That James G. Gilliland, William Priddy, and John Bolenbaucher be and are hereby appointed to view, and that Martin B. Wilson be and is appointed to survey said road, and to meet for that purpose in the town of Willshire on Monday, the 12th day of March inst : and after being duly qualified, proceed and make return according to law. A petition from certain citizens in Willshire Township being presented and read, praying for the location and establishment of a road to commence at some point on the State road between James Major's mill and Henry Reichard's brick house, by Ansel Blossom's to the N. E. corner of Sec. 34; thence one mile ; thence by David Wright's to the county line where said line crosses the four mile run, or in a direction to intersect the road to Lima: and as Solomon Herzogg and Ansel Blossom have given bond for all costs and expenses accruing from a view and survey of said road unless the same shall be established a public highway, it is hereby Ordered that John Frysinger, John Thatcher, and John Johnson be and are appointed view, and that Martin B. Wilson be and is hereby appointed to survey the same, and that they meet for that purpose in the town of Willshire on Monday, the 19th day of March inst., for that purpose, and after being qualified, proceed to view, survey, and make return according to law. A petition from certain citizens in Willshire Township being presented and read, praying for the location and establishment of a road leading from the western extremity of Wolcott Street, in the town of Willshire, to run in the best and most direct route to the termination of the road leading from Decatur, Indiana, to the State line, and as Charles Mount and David Major have entered into bond for all costs and expenses, unless the same shall be established a public highway, it is hereby ordered, that John Frysinger, John Thatcher, and John Johnson be and are appointed to view, and Martin B. Wilson be and is appointed to survey the same, and that they meet for that purpose in the town of Willshire on Monday the 19th day of March inst., and after being duly qualified, proceed and make return as the law directs. Ordered, that Oliver Stacey receive an order upon the treasurer for six dollars as a remuneration for hauling law books from the Auglaize River to the town of Willshire. Whereas, a petition signed by certain citizens of Ridge and Pleasant townships has been filed in the auditor's office praying for certain alterations on the State road that leads from Bucyrus to Fort Wayne, it is hereby Ordered, that the board will attend to receiving remonstrances against said petition (if any are presented), on the 5th day of June A. D. 1838, and that the auditor give legal notice of the same. The board then adjourned until to-morrow at 9 o'clock. Willshire, March 6, 1838. The board convened at 9 o'clock ; ordered, that one hundred and forty lots be laid out on the land belonging to the county in order to fill out and make square in form the original surveyed and recorded plat of the town of Van Wert; and that the same be known as the county's addition to the town of Van Wert, and be it further Ordered, that Martin B. Wilson be and is hereby appointed to survey and lay off the same, and that after he is duly qualified he shall, after having selected and qualified chain carriers, markers, etc., proceed on the 15th or 16th of March inst., to lay off the aforesaid number of lots in the same manner as the lots are laid out on the original recorded plat. Ordered, that the lots in the town of Van Wert which belong to the county be offered at public sale on Tuesday the 22d day of May A. D. 1838; Ordered, that the auditor get fifty advertisements and one hundred and fifty blank bonds printed at the expense of the county; also, get a notice of the sale inserted twice in the Dayton Journal. Ordered, that the commissioners meet on the 19th day of March, in Willshire, to sell out two contracts to the lowest and best bidder ; one to extend the bridge across the St. Marys River at Willshire, 110 feet in length, and supposed to be above high-water mark, and the other to finish the bridge across Duck Creek. The board then adjourned. WM. H. PURDY, HENRY REICHARD, JOSEPH JOHNSON, JOHN F. DODDS, Auditor,   Commissioners Van Wert County, Ohio. Van Wert County, Ohio. Deed.—Peter Aughenbaugh & Co. to Van Wert County. Know all men that I, James Watson Riley, for and on my own account, and as agent and attorney, in fact for Peter Aughenbaugh and Elizabeth his wife, and George Marsh and Caroline his wife, as proprietors of the town of Van Wert, ih the county of Van Wert and State of Ohio, under the name and firm of Peter Aughenbaugh & Co., in consideration of a contract heretofore made between said Peter Aughenbaugh & Co. and Louis Dille, James Fergus, and Justin Hamilton, commissioners appointed by joint resolution of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, to locate the seat of justice for the county of Van Wert, whereby the following described real estate was given as a donation to the county of Van Wert upon condition that the seat of justice for said county should be fixed at the town of Van Wert, which condition was complied with by said commissioners and accepted by the county through her constituted authorities, and by authority of regularly executed powers of attorney from the said Peter and Elizabeth Aughenbaugh and George and Caroline Marsh, duly recorded upon pages " three hundred and fifty-six (356), and three hundred and fifty-seven (357), and four hundred and ninety (490) of Book E, Mercer County, Ohio Records," do by these presents release, convey, and confirm unto Henry Reichard, Wm. Purdy, and Joseph Johnson, as commissioners of the county of Van Wert in the State of Ohio, for the time being, and their successors in office for the use of the county forever, all the lots of odd numbers in the original 136 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. plat of said town of Van Wert, from number one to number sevent y seven inclusive, saving and excepting number three, which is set apart as a school lot, and 80 recorded, and all of the east half of the northwest quarter and the northwest quarter of the northwest quarter of section number thirteen in township number two, south of range number two east, not laid out in lots, streets, or alleys, or appropriated as commons on the original plat, supposed to be about one hundred acres, but be the same more or less, according to the legitimate subdivision of the section. To have and to hold the same unto the said commissioners and their successors tor the use of the county of Van Wert forever. Hereby covenanting that the title hereby conveyed is clear, free, and unencumbered, and that the said party of the first part will warrant and defend the same against all persons claiming or to claim by, from or under them their heirs or assigns. In witness whereof the said James Watson Riley for and on his own account, and as agent and attorney in fact as aforesaid, together with Susan Q. Riley, the wife of said James Watson Riley, who releases her dower in said premises, have hereunto set their hands and seals at St. Marys the twelfth day of April A. D. eighteen hundred and thirty-eight. JAMES WATSON RILEY.   (SEAL.) SUSAN Q. RILEY.    (SEAL.) PETER AUGHENBAUGH.  (SEAL.) ELIZABETH AUGHENBAUGH. (SEAL.) GEORGE MARSH.   (SEAL.) CAROLINE MARSH.           (SEAL.) Signed, sealed, and acknowledged in the presence of B. F. SCHROEDER, CALEB MAJOR. By James Watson Riley, Attorney in fact. The State of Ohio, Mercer County, ss: On the 12th day of April, A. D. eighteen hundred thirty-eight, came James Watson Riley before me, the undersigned, and acknowledged the signing and sealing of the above deed on his own account, and as attorney for the purpose therein specified ; and also Susan Q. Riley, the wife of said James, who upon a separate examination declared that she signed the same voluntarily, knowing the contents thereof, and was still satisfied therewith. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal. CALEB MAJOR, J. P. (SEAL.) Van Wert County, Ohio: Recorder's Office, March 9, 1839. This deed was received and recorded same day. Attest : CHARLES MOUNT, Recorder. An Account of the Lots sold by the Commissioners at the Town of Van Wert, May 22, 1838. Horace L. Holcomb, Palmyra, Warren Co., 0 , lots 1, 77, 49, 31, 57, 11, 17, 61, 69, 71. Jacob Stripe, Fairfield Co., 0., lots 5 and 7. John P. Henderson, Perry Co., 0., lot 37. William Stripes, Fairfield Co , O, lots 35 and 9. John McColly. Jr., Springfield, Clark Co., 0., lot 41. John A. Colerick, Bucyrus, Crawford Co., 0., lot 43. Adam Nimmon, Bucyrus, Crawford Co., 0., lot 51. Henry Conover, Carrollton, Montgomery Co., 0., lot 47. Samuel Ruckman, per J. W. Riley, Mercer, Mercer Co., 0., lot 53. James A. Hanson, Lima, Allen Co., 0., lot 29. James W. Riley, St. Marys, Mercer Co., 0., lots 55, 59, 63. Samuel M. Clark, Allen Co., 0., lot 25. Daniel Cook, Van Wert Co., 0., lot 21. James W. Henderson, Perry Co., 0., lot 23. William Parent, Van Wert, lots 15 and 73. Joseph Gleason, Van Wert, lots 13 and 19. Wm. B. Hedges, Shanesville, lot 75. George Marsh, Athens, Athens Co., 0., lots 65 and 67. It is hereby declared to be the mutual understanding, intent and meaning of the parties to the aforesaid contract that if the said George Marsh shall erect or cause to be erected a sawmill within one mile of the town of Van Wert, on the middle fork of the Little Auglaize River, within the space of two years, then the said Marsh shall pay or cause to be paid the sum of one hundred dollars only ; but if said mill is not completed within that period, then the Commissioners shall collect the whole amount ($150). WILLIAM H. PURDY, JOSEPH JOHNSON, HENRY REICHARD. Attest: John F. Dodds, Auditor, Van Wert Co. Willshire, June 4, A. D. 1838. Monday 8 o'clock, Commissioners convened. Were present: Henry Reichard, Wm. H. Purdy, Joseph Johnson. John F. Dodds, Auditor. A petition being presented, signed by certain citizens in Jennnings, Ridge, and Pleasant townships, praying for the location and establishment of a county road, to commence at Washington Marks on Jenning's prairie, and to run from thence to Walter's mill; from thence to sectiopns 27, T 2 S, R 3 E, and from thence on the nearest and most suit ground to the town of Van Wert; and whereas, John Hill and Eli Co ton have bound themselves for all costs and expenses arising from a In and survey of the same, unless the same shall be established a pu highway, it is hereby ordered, that James Q. Gilliland, Stephen Gleason, and David McCoy, be and they hereby are appointed viewers, and that be and he hereby is appointed to survey the sari and that they meet for that purpose at the place of beginning on the day of next for that purpose, and after being d sworn, take to their aid all necessary assistance, then proceed and m return according to law. Examined the surveys of different roads, and read the accompanying reports: Received a receipt from James G. Gilliland for the sum of four hundred and fifty-two dollars and thirty-five cents, it being the amount of money received at Van Wert on sale of lots. May 22, 1838.—Ordered, that .John F. Dodds be and he hereby is appointed commissioner to locate a State road to commence in Darke County at Greenville, and to run from thence to Montezuma in Mercer County; from thence to Celina; from thence to Mercer; from thence Van Wert in Van Wert County ; from thence to Paulding the first located county seat in Paulding County, and from thence to New Rochester on the Maumee River, vice Wm. Priddy, resigned. A petition being presented, signed by a lawful number of freeholders praying for certain alterations in a surveyed route for a country road that commences at a point between the houses of James Major and Henry Reichard on the State road that leads from St. Marys to Fort Wayne, and to run from thence by Ansel Blossom's, etc., to intersect the Lima road, and James Major and Ansel Blossom have bound themselves for all costs and expenses arising from a view and survey of the same, unless said alterations shall be made it is hereby— Ordered, that Anthony McQueen, Abel Johnson, and Reuben Lewis be and they hereby are appointed to view, and that Thomas Odle be and he hereby is appointed to survey the same, and that they meet at the town of Willshire on Saturday the 9th day of June next for that purpose, and after being qualified take to their assistance chairmen, markers, etc., and proceed and make returns as the law directs. Adjourned till to-morrow. June 5, A. D. 1838. Convened at 9 o'clock. The board commenced a settlement with Wm. Case, treasurer, and examining accounts, receipts, orders, redeemed vouchers, etc and making lawful allowance for services do find that there should remain in the treasury the sum of one thousand one hundred and ninety-four dollars and seventy three cents; county, school, and three per cents. and road, $565.00, of which the said Case paid over to his successor in office, the balance remains urettled and unpaid. Read different reports on different roads. Gave James G. Gilliland an order on William Case for the sum of $1173.20. James G. Gilliland, treasurer, received a note of board on John F. Dodds for the sum of sixteen dollars, $8.90 of which he paid in orders ; balance, $7.10. The assessor presented his list, which was examined and found correct, and from said list-book it appeared that there is in Willshire Township ; cattle, 135 ; value, $1080; horses, 82; value, $3280; merchants' capital, $700. Pleasant Township ; cattle, 49 ; value, $392 ; horses, 12; value, $480. Ridge Township ; cattle, 69; value, $552 ; horses, 27 ; value, $1080. Jennings Township; cattle, 130; value, $1040 ; horses, 53 ; value $2120. Total number of cattle, 383 ; value, $3064 ; horses, 174 value, $6960. There is also 560 acres of land, valued at $2160, which is to be placed upon the general list of taxable property. Adjourned till to-morrow. HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 137 June 6, A. D. 1838. Convened at 9 o'clock. Ordered, that the levy upon the general list of taxable property be five mills on the dollar for county purposes for the year 1838. Ordered, that the money received as first payment on lots sold at the town of Van Wert be, and the same hereby is, appropriated to defray the expenses of erecting a jail at said town, for expenses incurred in selling said lots, for county books, and printing advertisements and blank bonds. Ordered, that an order issued to Martin B. Wilson, which is recorded on pages 17 and 18, the purport of which was to lay out 120 lots at the town of Van Wert, be and is hereby made void and of no effect. Ordered, that the commissioners meet in the town of Van Wert, on Wednesday, July 11, 1838, for the purpose of selling out plans, contracts, etc., for gaol and bridges, and offering the same at public sale. Van Wert, July 11, 1838.—Agreeable to an order issued June 6, 1838, the board convened at Van Wert. Present : Henry Reichard and Wm. H. Purdy. John F. Dodds, Auditor, made out plan for bridge across Middle Creek. Thursday 12th.—Proceeded to Jennings, eleven miles from Van Wert, and sold out plan for bridge across said stream. Friday, 13th.—Made out plan for gaol and plan for bridge across West Creek. Saturday, 14th.—Sold contract to build gaol to Jesse King, of Mercer County, who is to cause said work to be performed on or before the 1st day of November next for the sum of $483. Sold contract to Peter Wells, of Van Wert County, who is to cause a bridge to be erected across Jennings, according to contract, on or before the 14th day of September next for the sum of $199. Sold contract to Win. Parent, of Van Wert County, who is to cause a bridge to be erected across the Middle Fork of the Little Auglaize, at Van Wert, on or before the 14th day of September next, for the sum of $150. Sold contract to James T. Maddox to erect a bridge across West Creek, three miles west of Van Wert, which is to be completed on or before the 14th clay of September next, for the sum of $—. Ordered, that the board meet in order to accept bridges on the 14th day of September next, and on the 1st day of November to receive goal. Adjourned. Van Wert, Sept. 15, 1838.—The board met according to order issued The board met, according to order issued when last convened, Present: Wm. H. Purdy and Joseph Johnson, and John F. Dodds, Auditor. Approved of and accepted the bridge across Jennings erected by Peter Approved of and accepted bridge across Middle Fork of Little Auglaize erected by W. Parent. Approved and accepted the bridge across West Creek by James Maddox. Ordered, that the auditor when issuing orders to the contractors for three per cent. funds, apportion the amount in the treasury according to the amount of such contract, reserving a small sum in the treasury for contingencies. WILLIAM H. PURDY, JOSEPH JOHNSON, Commissioners. Oct. 25, 1838, Van Wert, 0.—At a session of the commissioners, convened by previous order, Robert Gilliland and Stephen Gleason each presented his certificate of election and oath of office, and took his seat in the board. Received the jail with a deduction of $45. Allowed contractor $4 for constructing a port-hole. Attest : JOHN F. DODDS, A uditor. Willshire, Dec. 2, 1838.—Present : 'Wm. H. Purdy, Stephen Gleason, and Robert Gilliland, Commissioners, and John F. Dodds, Auditor. A petition being presented, signed by certain citizens of Jennings Township, praying for an alteration in a certain road, to commence at a beech tree in John Keith's lane, thence continuing to the north side of John Woolery's house ; thence on the best ground near Harter's ; thence across, etc., as shown by petition, which is recorded in book and      and whereas John Keith and William Major have bound themselves for all costs arising from a survey and review of said road unless the same shall be established a public highway : We hereby appoint Daniel M. Beard, Adam Gilliland, and Lyman Wells viewers, and John G. Morse surveyor, who are to proceed on the 10th instant to make review and survey, and then make return according to law. The board then read reports on different roads, and examined the notes and plats made of said surveys. Received and read reports, and examined notes and plat of a road running from Jennings' prairie to Van Wert. Received and read a report, and examined notes and plat on a route for a road from Ansel Blossom's, etc., as shown by notes and plat of said route as returned by Martin B. Wilson, surveyor, and recorded in book — and page —. Ordered, that the treasurer receive from William Case, ex-treasurer, the stun of eighty dollars, Michigan paper. Ordered, that the field-notes be procured by John G. Morse, County Surveyor. Adjourned till to-morrow. Convened at 8 o'clock, Dec. 4, 1838.—Washington Marks came forward and acknowledged that nine eighty-acre lots of land owned by him were taxable, and which were not returned by the auditor of State for assessment, and which the commissioners assessed at two dollars and fifty cents per acre. Ordered, that the treasurer collect three per cent. on the capital employed by Samuel M. Clark in merchandising in the town of Van Wert. Ordered, that the auditor call upon the auditor of Mercer County for the notes and plats of the different roads run through the county of Van Wert prior to its organization. Ordered, that the auditor make out a plan and sell a contract of a bridge, which is to be erected across Dog Creek, where the Bucyrus and Fort Wayne roads cross said creek. Read report and examined notes and plat of a road to intersect the Ulna road at the county line. Approved. Read road report and examined the notes and plat of a. county road from Willshire to Van Wert. Approved, and declared the same an established highway. Read report and approved alteration in a route for a road to pass Blossom's, as recorded in book — and page —. Ordered, that the auditor be, and he hereby is, authorized to purchase a strip of land situated in the town of Van Wert and owned by Peter Aughenbaugh & Co., at any sum not exceeding thirty-five dollars. Adjourned sine die. Van Wert, March 25, 1839.—Commissioners convened. Present: Stephen Gleason and Robert Gilliland. There being no auditor, the commissioners appointed Edward R. Wells to serve as auditor till the first day of March, 1840. Edward R. Wells, upon being appointed to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Wm. Cunningham, was duly sworn into office, and forthwith executed his bonds to the acceptance of the commissioners in the penal sum of two thousand dollars with Elisha Wells, Wm. A. Wells, and Joseph Gleason, securities. The books belonging to the auditor's office being at Willshire, the board adjourned till Wednesday, the 27th instant. Wednesday morning, March 27th.—The Commissioners convened according to adjournment. Present : Stephen Gleason and Robert Gilliland, Commissioners, and E. R. Wells, Auditor. A petition for a new township to be set off and called Harrison being presented, it is ordered that townships No. 2 S. R. 1 E., and No. 1 S. R. 1 E., be organized under the name of Harrison Township ; and when said territory shall again be divided, township No. 2 S. R. 1 E. shall hold the name. And it is ordered that the auditor notify the electors of said township to meet on Thursday, April 11th, at the house of Henry A. Lords, for the purpose of electing their township officers. An account being presented by Ansel Blossom for furnishing room, fuel, and stationery for two terms Court Common Pleas, May and November, 1838, $5 ; June and December, for furnishing room, fuel, and stationery for two sessions of County Commissioners, $2.50. Ordered that the county auditor should issue an order on the treasurer in his favor for said amount—$7.50. 138 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. Ordered, that John G. Morse be authorized to procure the field-notes of Van Wert County from the Surveyor-General of Ohio. Eli Compton, assessor, leaving the State of Ohio and resigning his office, whereupon the board appointed Wm. Parent to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Eli Compton, to serve until his successor is elected and qualified, and forthwith executed his bonds to the acceptance of the Commissioners in the penal sum of $2000, with Gideon Mott and Adams Nimmons, sureties. Whereas a notice was received by the board from Charles Mount, dated March 26, 1839, declaring his inability, on account of business, any longer to attend to the duties of recorder, and requested them to receive the same as his resignation ; whereupon the board appointed Joseph Gleason to serve as recorder in his stead until his successor is elected and qualified. Ordered, that James G. Gilliland be, and he hereby is, authorized to purchase a strip of land situated in the town of Van Wert, owned by P. Aughenbaugh & Co., at any sum not exceeding fifty dollars. Ordered, that the auditor be required to order out an execution on the judgment rendered against William Case, ex-treasurer of Van Wert County, and securities, on or before the 20th day of April next. This order revoked until June session. Ordered, that the auditor notify John G. Morse, county surveyor, to survey a number of town lots in the northwest addition of Van Wert. Ordered, that the lots in the town of Van Wert which belong to the county he offered at public sale on Wednesday, the 22d day of May, A. D. 1839. Sale of Lots by Order of the Board, May 22, 1839. William Layton, Van Wert Co., lot 290. Smith Hill, Van Wert Co., lot 281. Joseph Gleason, Van Wert Co., lots 316, 305, 306, 299, and 300. William Hill, Allen Co., lots 253, 287, 271, 272, 295, 315, 284, and 285. Elihu Ireland, Allen Co., lots 275, 254, and 255. John Heath, Allen Co., lots 247, 248, 296, 39, and 45. George Null, Allen Co., lots 373 and 274. Smith Carmean, Allen Co , lots 282, 283, 266, and 267. Asa Cook, Van Wert Co., lots 303, 304, and 280. .James G. Gilliland, Van Wert Co., lots 307, 308, 297, and 298. Michael Defer, Van Wert Co., 309 and 292. P. J. Hines, Van Wert Co., lot 310. Peter Wills, Van Wert Co., lots 311 and 294. W. II. Keilholtz, Van Wert Co., lot 312. William Davis, Van Wert Co., lot 113. Adam Gilliland, Van Wert Co., lots 314 and 291. Edward R. Wells, Van Wert Co., lots 288 and 33. S. M. Clark, Van Wert Co., lots 286, 278, 279, and 270. E. B. Jones, Van Wert Co., lots 256 and 257. Isaac Daugherty, Van Wert Co., lot 258. Cyrus Elliott, Van Wert Co., lots 259 and 260. 0. C. Rude, St. Mary's, M. Co., lots 293 and .252. Andrew Todd, Van Wert Co., lots 276 and 277. Samuel Ruckinan, Mercer, M. Co., lots 268 and 269. John S. Houston, St. Mary's, M. Co., lots 261 and 262. John S. Houston, St. Mary's, M. Co., lots 263 and 264. William Parent, Van Wert Co., lot 265. Emanuel Morehead, Van Wert Co., lots 250 and 251. Van Wert, June 3, 1839.—The board convened and proceeded to business. Present: William H. Purdy, Stephen Gleason, and Robert Gilliland, Commissioners, and E. R. Wells, Auditor. A petition being presented, signed by certain citizens of Harrison Township praying for the location and establishment of a road to commence at the southwest corner of section 6, Harrison Township, thence to the southwestern corner of section 3, thence to the northeast corner of section 14, thence by the best route to the Bucyrus and Fort Wayne road, in Pleasant Township, and as Amasa Preston and S. M. Clark have entered into bonds for all costs and expenses arising from a view and survey of the same if it is not established a public highway : ordered, that John Thatcher, Joseph Gleason, and John Hill be appointed to view and John G. Morse to survey the same, and to meet for that purpose at the southwest corner of section 6 in Harrison Township, on the second Monday in August, and, after being duly qualified, proceed to view and survey said road, and make returns according to law. Whereas, a petition being presented, signed by certain citizens of Pleasant Township, has been filed in the auditor's office, praying for a certain alteration of the State road leading from Bucyrus and Fort Wayne. Ordered, that the board will attend to receiving remonstrances (if any be presented) on the 2d day of December session, A. D. and that the auditor shall give legal notice of the same. A petition being presented, signed by certain citizens of Pleasant Township, praying for the location and establishment of a road to commence at the section line between sections 3 and 10, where the Shanesville and Defiance road crosses said line; thence to within 30 or 40 rods of the S. E. corner of section 27 in T. 2 S. R. 2 E.; thence on the nearest and best ground to intersect the Bucyrus and Fort Wayne road, near the bridge across the Middle Fork of Little Auglaize River; and as Thomas Thorn, Gideon Mott, and Wm. Parent entered into a bond for all cost and expenses arising from a view and survey of said road, if it be not established a public highway, Ordered, that Win. Davis, Lyman S. Wells, and David McCoy being appointed to view, and John G. Morse to survey said road, and to for that purpose at the house of Thomas Thorn on the first Monday in July next, and after being duly qualified, proceed to view and survey said road, and make returns according to law. A petition being presented for a new township to be set off and called, York, it is ordered that Township No. 2, S. R. 3 E., be organized under the name of York, and ordered that the qualified electors meet at the house of Mr. Woolery on the 15th inst., for the purpose of electing officers for said township. Adjourned until to-morrow morning. June 4.—The board convened according to adjournment and proceeded to business. Read, road report from Guilford to Jennings' prairie, Read, road report from Jennings' prairie to Van Wert. The board then commenced a settlement with James G. Gilliland, Treasurer of Van Wert County. Adjourned till to-morrow. June 5.—The Board convened according to adjournment. Present: Wm. H. Purdy, Stephen Gleason, and Robert Gilliland, and proceeded to business. Read, different road reports, and established county road from Jennings' prairie to Van Wert a public highway. Proceeded with the settlement with treasurer. Adjourned till morning. June 6.—The Board again convened according to adjournment and proceeded to business. Present: Purdy and Gilliland. Absent: Glenson. Board continued settlement with the treasurer, and adjourned till morrow. June 7.—The Board again convened according to adjournment. Present: Purdy, Gleason, and Gilliland, and proceeded to business. After examining accounts, receipts, and redeemed orders, etc., and making lawful allowances for his services, do find that there remains om the treasury the sum of $2772.934, county, school, and three per cent funds. We find by close examination of all the papers, orders redeemed, and after comparing the auditor's and treasurer's books, we find on settlement the amount above to be correct as near as we can arrange the books and papers up to this date. WM. H. PURDY, ROBERT GILLILAND, STEPHEN GLEASON, Commissioners. Adjourned till to-morrow. June 8, 1889.—The Board convened according to adjournment. Present: Purdy, Gleason, and Gilliland. The assessor presented his list, which was examined and found correct, and from said list-book it appears that there is in- Willshire Township, cattle, 157; value, $1208. Horses, 98; value, $3920. 'Merchants' capital, $2900. Pleasant Township, cattle, 56; value, $448. Horses, 20; value, $800, Merchants' capital, $1300. Jennings Township, cattle, 161; value, $1288. Horses, 65; value $3000. Harrison Township, cattle, 50; value, $400. Horses, 14 ; value, $560.   Ridge Township, cattle, 83; value, $684. Horses, 32; value, $1280. It further appears there are 1162.0 acres of land in Willshire Township valued at $4454. And it appears there are in Jennings Township 1403.80 acres of 1 valued at $2.00 per acre, which the Board raised to $2.50 per acre, which is to be placed on the general list of taxable property. The Board also raised and reduced the taxes on certain tracts of 1 in Willshire Township as described on the duplicate. HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 139 also, he presented his account for thirteen days' services in taking the assessment and number of voters in Van Wert County, for which the board ordered that the auditor should issue an order on the treasurer for $26.00. Ordered, that the levy upon the general list of taxable property be five mills on the dollar, and three mills on the dollar for road purposes, and two mills on the dollar for school purposes for the year 1839. Ordered, that the auditor notify the township clerks of the amount of road tax levied on each person in the respective township. Ordered, that the commissioners meet on the 4th day of July next in the town of Van Wert for the purpose of selling out bridge contracts. Adjourned. At a meeting held Dec. 2, 1839, Tully Township was struck off, and an election ordered to be held at the house of J. G. Morse on the 25th inst. At a meeting held March 2, 1840, Liberty and Washington townships were struck off, and an election ordered to be held on the first Monday of April, 1840; the electors of Liberty to meet at the house of Peter Putnam, and those of Washington to meet for election and organization purposes at the school-house. EARLY MARRIAGES. The first marriages we find on record are as follows ; and before this date all records are lost. I do hereby certify that on the 5th day of May, 1840, by virtue of a license from the Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, of Van Wert County, John Hurry and Elizabeth Bowen were legally joined in marriage on the 30th day of May, 1840. Signed, Thomas Clayton, J. P. The State of Ohio, Van Wert County: On the 7th day of May, 1840, I solemnized the marriage of Henry Foster and Mary Maddox. Joseph Gleason, J. P. I do hereby certify that I joined together in the bonds of matrimony David Richy and Laura Wells on the 12th day of Nov. 1840. Davis Johnson, J. P. I do hereby certify that on the 26th day of Nov. 1840, by virtue of a license from the Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, of Van Wert County Isaac Brittson and Elizabeth Pring were legally joined in by marriage by me, a justice of the peace, in and for said county. Thomas Clayton, J.P. Thomas Thorn, J. P. Van Wert County, ss.: On the 10th day of Dec. 1840, I solemnized Nelson Goodrich and Polly Duncan. Thomas Thorn I do hereby certify that by virtue of a license from the Clerk of the Court of Van Wert County, that Josiah Clink and Alice Keeth were legally joined in marriage on the 26th day of December A. D. 1840. Signed, William Morman. Van Wert County ss.: On the 17th day of January A. D. 1840, I solemnized the marriage of Peter Hurt with Mary Germann. Joseph Gleason, J. P. Van Wert County ss.: On the 29th day of March A. D. 1840, I solemnized the marriage of George Guy with Sarah Gilliland. Joseph Gleason, J. P. I do hereby certify that on the 14th day of June, 1840, by virtue of a license from the Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of Van Wert County, John Brenner and Elizabeth Harzog were joined in marriage by me, a justice of the peace in and for said county. Jacob M. Harper, J. P. Oct. 14, 1841. James T. Daily and Mary Johnson. By Davis Johnson. Feb. 1, 1842. James Walters and Amanda Harter. By William Reed, J. P. Dec. 29, 1841. John Myers and Elizabeth Gilliland. By Thomas Gilliland, J. P. March 3, 1842. John De Camp and Lydia Williams. By Thomas W. Bowdle, J. P. April 11, 1842. John Cavett and Abby C. Williams. By Thomas Bowdle, J. P. June 10, 1842. John R. Schurrer and Elizabeth Burry. By Thomas Clayton, J. P. June 25, 1842. James Bell and Mary F. Johnson. By Thomas Clayton, J. P. April 21, 1842. T. W. King and Jane E. Gilliland. By Joseph Gleason, J. P. March 9, 1841. Azariah Wagner to Susan Baker. By William Henney, J. P. March 25, 1841. William Todd to Mary Hine. By Thomas W. Bowdle, J. P. Jan. 21, 1841. William J. Burtch to Miss Hetty Sands. By Thomas Hickerwell, minister of the gospel. Dec. 25, 1841. Peter Bollenbaugh to Catharine Middleton. By Wm. H. Purdy, J. I'. Aug. 16, 1840. Andrew Roehm to Catharine Bientz. By William Henney, J. P. June 30, 1840. Joseph Duncan to Sarah Hipshere. By Joseph Gleason, J. P. Aug. 22, 1840. Francis M. Statfield to Polly Harter. By William Reed, J. P. July 7, 1840. Cyrus Bowen to Mary McQueen. By Davis Johnson, J. P. Aug. 4, 1846. Isaac Wiley to Mary Wright. By Jacob M. Harper, J. P. June 22, 1841. John Keath to Miss Priscilla Arnolds. By Wm. Reed, J. P. June 10, 1841. John Hire to Mary Pollick. By Thomas W. Bowdle, J. P. June 20, 1841. John Lilley to Elizabeth Wright. By William H. Purdy, J. P. July 31, 1841. Jared Gates to Fanny Hemphill. By E. M. Cummins, J. P. Sept. 16, 1841. Henry Showalter to Mary Hartz. By William Henney, J. P. Oct. 23, 1841. George Guy to Margaret Clapper. By Thomas Gilliland, J. P. Oct. 26, 1841. Hugh Gilliland to Nancy J. King. By Joseph Gilliland, J. P. Dec. 14, 1841. James Carmean to Sarah Somersett. By Thomas W. Bowdle, J. P. Dec. 22, 1841. Joshua Shaffer to Catharine Wagarman. By J. B. Groscost, J. P. March 6, 1842. Philip C. Germann to Annie E. Germann. By Davis Johnson, J. P. Aug. 10, 1842. Henry Taylor to Amy Kever. By Wm. Henney, J. P. Aug. 15, 1842. Silas Martin to Susan Irvin. By Rev. Wesley Brock. Sept. 15, 1842. William Lewis to Sarah Myers. By Joseph Gleason, J. P. Sept. 25, 18.42. James Dever to Susan Hudspeth. Sept. 27, 1842. Daniel L. McMannis to Mary Ann Taylor. By Jesse B. Croscost, J. P. Oct. 17, 1842. John F. Woodruff to Nancy Bronson. By William Henney, J. P. Oct. 25,1842. Joshua Miller to Lydia Mix. By Davis Johnson, J. P. Dec. 26, 1842. James Reed to Rachel Harter. By Lewis Culver, J. P. Dec. 6, 1839 Josiah Clark to Alice Keitte. By Wm. Morman, J. P. Jan. 17, 1840. Peter Hart to Mary Germann. By Jos. Gleason, J. P. March 29, 1840. George Guy to Sarah Gilliland. By Joseph Gleason, J. .P. Jan. 14, 1840. John Brenner to Elizabeth Hartzog. By Jacob M. Harper, J. P. May 17, 1840. Henry Foster to Mary Maddox. By Jos. Gleason, J. P. May 5, 1840. Joseph Hurry to Elizabeth Browne. By Thomas Clayton, J. P. Nov. 12, 1840. David Richey to Laura Wells. By Davis Johnson, J. P. Nov. 26, 1840. Isaac Britson to Elizabeth Pring. By Thomas Clayton, J. P. Dec. 10, 1840. Nelson Gooduck to Polly Duncan. By Thomas Thorn, J. P. - 18 - 140 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. Dec. 25, 1840. Peter Bolenbaugh to Catharine Middleton. By W. H. Purdy, J.P. Aug. 16, 1840. Andrew Boehm to Catherine Beintz. By William Hennry, J. P. June 16, 1840. Joseph Duncan to Sarah Hipshire. By Joseph Gleason, J. P. Aug. 18, 1840. Francis M. Stalfield to Polly Harter. By William Reed, J. P. Aug. 4, 1840. Cyrus Bowen to Mary McQueen. By Davis Johnson, J. P. Aug. 4, 1840. Isaac Wiley to Mary Wright. By Jacob M. Harper, J.P. PAGES (Most of) 140 - 141 VOTE TOTAL - NOT SCANNED HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 141 ENUMERATION OF THE WHITE MALE INHABITANTS OF VAN WERT COUNTY IN 1839, BY WILLIAM PARENT, ASSESSOR. Willshire Township-86. John Boyer, Joseph Chevirt, John Leslie, Thomas Clayton, Alexander More, John Bunner, Frederick Hartzogg, Aaron More, James Major, David Major, Jr., William Case, William Purdy, George Shume, Solomon Hartzogg, John Johnson, NoahFrysingerr, Noah Long, George Hartzogg, John Boyer, John A gler, John Shoeffer, John Templeton, Edward Blossom, Jacob Pontius, William Andrew, Joseph Heller, Minton More, John Major, Peter Bornbaugh, George Stuller, David Major, Robert Daniels, William Major, Charles Mount, Michael Shule, Jacob Bolenbaugh, Frederick Raper, William Kear, Jacob Joshua, George W. Purdy, John Linderhouse, Peter Putnam, James Hemphill, Ajalon Wright, Thompson Roebuck, Abraham Pontius, Joseph Andrew, Nathaniel Heller, Thomas More, Frederick Shaler, Joshua Wadkens, David Stuller, Andrew Blossom, David Daniels, David Beam, John Darnell, David Lake, Michael Thatcher, Peter Frysinger, Thomas Kerr, Jacob Thatcher, Jeremiah Agler, John Selllater, George Clouse, Joshua Jewett, Joseph Henry, John Major, Anthony McQueen, Lewis Newly, Chs. Smith, Jacob Shaler, Jacob Harper, Joseph Bolenbaugh, John Thatcher, Wm. Cunningham, Henry Richard, Jacob Shume, Henry Alspaugh, Jacob Thatcher, John Frysingerr, Richard Pring, David Wright, Frederick Fry, Jacob Dale, Daniel Riley, Jonathan Jewett. 142 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. Pleasant Township-36. Lyman Webb, Asa Cook, Edward Wells, George Baurg, John Myers, Hercules Cane, Daniel Hipshur, William Clayton, Joshua Cook, William Burnet, James Maddox, Thomas Thorn, Benjamin Thorn, David Thorn, Elisha Wells, Joseph Gleason, Levi Sawyer, Samuel Maddox, Jacob Speeler, S. M. Clark, John Wagner, William Wells, Stephen Gleason, Thomas McCune, Daniel Cook, Gideon Mott, P. J. Hines, James Q. Graves, George McNamene, Amos Hipshur, William Davis, Solomon Fernman, William Miller, William Miller, Jr., S. R. Mott, William McNamene. Jennings Township-54. Levi Roebuck, Evan B. Jones, Joseph Keeth, John Powers, Irwin Duncan, Robert Thomas, William Moore, John Smith, Silas Mills, James Ruel, John Fortimer, John Heath, James Wool, Jacob Ross, Sylvester Wool, Samuel Moore,, John Mortimer, Johnzey Keith, John Harter, Elisha Rigdon, James Malenter, William Mormon, Wash Doak, William Carter, John Bevington, Joseph Moore, Leonard Verner, A. Culver, John Keith, William Harter, Nathaniel Griffin, Joshua Reed, Joshua Arnold, Silas Martin, Jesse Atkinson, Cyrus Elliott, Amos Dancher, John Ross, Lewis Culver, Edward Williams, George Harter, Claudius Griffin, Daniel Reed, Benjamin Griffin, John Resler, F. Jackson, F. Elliott, Joseph Duncan, John McCohen, Joshua Goodwin, Oliver Ingram, Peter Harter, William Reed, David Walters. Harrison Township-21. Robert Manley, Allen Walters, John Manley, Isaiah Foster, Abel Johnson, Joseph Johnson, Davis Johnson, Jesse Foster, William Johns, Jacob Johns, Thomas Hudspeth, Henry Lords, Peter Hertz, Fred. Pile, Joseph Osborne, John Lords, J. G. Morse, James Workman, Edward Jones, Norman Preston, Amasa Preston. Ridge Township-35. William Pollock, John G. Gilliland, Peter Wills, Allan Gilliland, John Gilliland, Thomas Gilliland, Robert Gilliland, Hugh Gilliland, James Asdale, David Beard, Eli Stickney, Joseph Caritt, Cornelius Burright, Oliver Stacey, John Hill, William Hill, John Ireland, John Ireland, Jr., James Caritt, Abm. Hines, William Nuttle, Samuel Hill, John Mark, Henry Harrick, Thomas Pollock, James Caritt, T. Hines, William Priddy, Moses Orchard, David McCoy, James Young, A. Burright, O. Burright, David Kind, William Parent. JUDICIARY. On February 12, 1820, by an act of Congress all that part of land lately ceded by the Indians to the United States, which lies within the State of Ohio, was erected into fourteen counties of these, we are particularly interested with Van Wert, Mercer, and Darke. The same act also provided that Van Wert and Mercer should be attached to Darke until otherwise ordered. Mercer was detached from Darke County in 1824 and Van Wert from Mercer in 1836. The Court of Common Pleas was held in 1836, at Will-shire, Judge Holt presiding, and Mr. A Blossom clerk. The records of Van Wert County were kept in Mercer County until 1837, although a partial organization of the county was effected April 29, 1836, b election of Jesse Atkinson and Joshua Goodwin as commissioners. This being the time of holding their first meeting, June 3, 1837, P. Cross was qualified as auditor and William Case as Treasurer. Oct. 3, 1837.—The judiciary of the county was organized, and like other officers, gave bonds and were qualified. The first court was held at Wiltshire, by the associate judges consisting of Joshua Walker's; Benjamin Griffin, and Oliver Stacey ; Ansel Blossom, clerk of the courts. April term, 1838.—Hon. William L. Helfenstein presented his commission as president judge, dated Feb. 9, 1836, which was read. June 17, 1838.—William Major gave bond, which was approved, and he was sworn to perform the duties of sheriff, Charles Mount as recorder, and John Frysinger as coroner. In the spring of 1839 the Court of Common Pleas was removed from Wiltshire to Van Wert ; the officers were also permanently established at the same time. There were in Van Wert at this time two stores, two taverns, and a blacksmith shop, and the old settlers state that two thousand dollars would have purchased all of them. Mr. A. Blossom resided at Wiltshire, and was not only clerk of the court, but postmaster of the town ; and when he would come to Van Wert to attend to his official court business, he would also bring with the letters for the people of Van Wert and its vicinity. With these preliminary remarks, we will give the names of all persons who have been elected to office. PRESIDENT JUDGES. 1838. Hon. W. L. Helfenstein. 1840. " E. B. Porter. 1845. Hon. Patrick G. Goode 1844. " M. H. Tilden. 1849. " George W. Way ASSOCIATE JUDGES. 1837. Hon. Joshua Watkins.  1837. " Benjamin Griffin.  1837. " Oliver Stacey.  1839. " Henry Reichard.  1840. " John Hill.       . 1840. " Joseph Gleason. 1841. Hon. Charles Mount. 1843. " P. Jacob Hines. 1844. " John Tomlinson 1844. " J. W. Conn. 1845. " Jacob M. Harper JUDGES ELECTED. 1851. Hon. Benjamin Metcalf. 1861. " 0. W. Rose. 1869. " James McKenzie. 1869. Hon. E. M. Phelps. 1879. " Charles M. Hughes 1880. " James H. Day PROBATE JUDGES 1852. Hon. W. H. Ramsey. 1855. I. D. Clarke. 1858. A. Bray. 1861. A. .McGavren. 1873. A. W. Baker. 1878. C. P. Edson. 1879. W. H. Mozier. 1881. A. T. Dailey. CLERK OF THE COURTS 1837. Ansel Blosson. 1840. Robert Gilliland. 1847. E. R. Wells. 1852. J. W. Conn. 1855. W. McDonald. 1857. William Anderson. 1859. George Strothers. 1863. W.Moneysmithh. 1866. J. E. Morrison. 1872. G. M. Day. 1880. U. H. Hester. AUDITORS 1837. David D. Cross. 1837. John F. Dodds. 1839. E. R. Wells. 1845. John W. Conn. 1848. P. J. Hines. 1850. John Shaw. 1854. James Webster. 1855. H. Robinson. 1857. G. L. Higgins. 1860. James Webster. 1863. George Strother. 1865. William T. Exline. 1867. Grimes McConahay. 1872. Julius A Gleason. 1874. George A. Dettmer. 1878. William T. Exline. 1881. Wm. T. Exline. 143 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. TREASURERS. 1837. William Case. 1839. James G. Gilliland 1845. James Burson. 1846. W. H. Ramsey. 1848. Robert Gilliland. 1851. Stephen Gleason. 1855. A. T. Priddy. 1857. Davis Johnson. 1863. H. Gilliland. 1865. J. W. Penn. 1867. Charles Germann. 1869. John Seaman. 1873. P. F. Feigert. 1876. A. Conant. 1876. James Montgomery. 1880. Abraham Ballyeat.* 1881. Charles E. Schenck (app'd). RECORDERS. 1836. Charles Mount. 1839. Joseph Gleason. 1848. 0. W. Rose. 1854. W. A. Clark. 1857. S. Lattimore. 1861. H. Campbell. 1861. Simon P. Brown. † 1863. W. H. Deniston. 1872. Perry C. Conn. 1879. W. P. Wolcott. SHERIFFS. 1838. William Major. ‡ 1839. Thomas R. Kear. 1841. Samuel M. Clark. 1843. Thomas R. Kear. 1847. Samuel Engleright. 1849. Jacob C. Parkinson. 1853. William Moneysmith. 1855. W. S. Ainsworth. 1857. Samuel Neal. 1859. C. P. Richey. 1863. Lewis Evers. 1865. Joseph R. Updegrove. 1867. C. P. Richey. 1869. A. B. Gleason. 1873 F. Billman. 1877. Jesse R. Steth. 187P. H. D. Heistand. 1881. H. D. Heistand. COMMISSIONERS. 1836. Jesse Atkinson. 1836. Joshua Goodwin. 1837. Wm. H. Purdy. 1837. Joshua Johnson. 1837. Henry Reichard. 1838. Stephen Gleason. 1839. Robert Gilliland. 1840. D. W. McCoy. 1840. Daniel Reed. 1841. Stephen Gleason. 1842. Solomon Hartzog. 1843. James M. Young. 1844. Stephen Gleason. 1845. Absalom Brey. 1846. John Baker. 1847. Johnzey Keith. 1848. Thomas Clayton. 1849. J. G. Gilliland. 1850. Johnzey Keith, 1851. Charles Germann. 1852. William Johns. 1852. Isaac Tolan. 1852. Stanton C. Dix. 1853. Thomas Cully. 1854. A. Mentzer. 1855. S. F. Hummelright. 1856. Lester Bliss. 1857. Thomas Cully. 1858. A. Mentzer. 1859. John H. Colwell. 1860. Henry Weible. 1861. Thomas Cully. 1862. James Montgomery. 1863. Thomas Cully. 1863. J. C. Curtis. 1864. Thomas Cully. 1865. Stephen Copper. 1865. Adam Merrick. 1866. S. F. Conklin. 1866. Samuel Neel. 1867. Abijah Goodwin. 1868. James Montgomery. 1869. Theodore Wrocklage. 1870. Abijah Goodwin. 1871. Abraham Balyeat. 1872. Samuel Miller. 1873. Abijah Goodwin. 1874. M. H. Morgan. 1875. Alexander Mentzer. 1876. Abijah Goodwin. 1877. A. A. Bronson. 1878. F. T. Gilliland. 1879. Frederick Lillich. 1880. D. J. Davies. 1881. Henry Rumble. CORONERS. 1838. John Frysinger. 1839. W. H. Newman. 1843. William Parent. 1845. Thomas Thorn. 1848. S. Engleright. 1849. Hiram Campbell. * Died before he was sworn. † S. P. Brown died in February, 1863, and W. H. Hemmelrecht was appointed.++ ‡ Resigned, and Mr. Kear appointed to fill the vacancy, and October, 1839, was elected. 1855. Dr. P. J. Hines. 1856. W. P. Bryan. 1858. W. Fronefield. 1860. Win. Parent. 1863. Isaac Casteel. 1865. B. A. Welch. 1869. Dr. H. W. Blackle 1871. Dr. A. N. Krout. 1873. Dr. C. A. Melsheimer. 1876. O. J. Coiner. 1877. S. Engleright. 1879. S. Engleright. 1881. Wm. Fromfield. COUNTY SURVEYORS 1838. Marius B. Wilson. 1839. J. G. Morse. 1841. Cyrenus Elliott. 1843. Davis Johnson. 1846. John Shaw. 1849. Davis Johnston. 1853. R. C. Spears. 1856. John Holland. 1861. William Giffin. 1867. J. A. Eckfeldt. 1870 J. W. Rimer. 1876. W. B. Jones. 1879. W. B. Jones. PROSECUTING ATTORNEYS 1839. T. H. Gillett. 1840. W. H. Newman. 1842. J. M. Barr. 1843. S. E. Bowman. 1846. R. C. Spears. 1847. C. P. Edson. 1848. R. C. Spears. 1850. C. P. Edson. 1857. Caleb Roberts. 1859. J. W. Steel. 1863. Perrin De Puy. 1864. I. D. Clark. 1867. J. L. Price. 1874. I. P. Shissler. 1878. W. H. Cunningham 1880. A. J. Porter INFIRMARY DIRECTORS 1867., Abraham Balyeat. " William Johnston. " John A. Smith. 1868. C. Hoffman. 1869. Robert Pollock. 1870. William Rumbaugh. 1871. Henry Reese. 1872. Thomas A. Albans. 1873. Peter Hertz. 1874. E. M. Baker. 1875. Ira Caveatt. 1876. I. M. Geise. 1877. George Fleger. 1878. Ira Caveatt. 1879. I. M. Geise. 1880. B. F. Bowers. 1881. Thomas C. Kensler. SUPERINTENDENTS. 1867. Dr. C. B. Steman. 1870. William Kimmel. 1874. Joseph Kannel. 1875. William Kimmel. 1878. Dr. E. P. Leslie. NOTARIES PUBLIC. Alexander, I. N., Mar. 8, 1865, '68. Allen, J. C., July 12, 1877, '80. Allen, Shannon E., Oct. 8, 1880. Anderson, Jas. A., Jan. 29, 1874, '77. Brown, S. P., Apr. 8, 1862. Brown, Orlando C., Jan. 12, 1869. Beers, Win. J., Nov. 28, 1871,'76, '77. Brodnix, I. B., Jan. 17, 1873, '76. Barr, J. Madison, Jan. 30, 1878. Brewer, M. T., Apr. 13, 1877. Barr, J. M., Mar. 25, 1874. Beall, W. H., June 20, 1878. Brotherton, B. J., Sept. 4, 1878. Beers, George W., June 10, 1880. Berry, Isaac R., Dec. 26, 1876, '79. Conn, James, Mar. 26, 1861. Cully, James, Feb. 18, 1864, '67. Clark, I. D., Jan. 14, 1865, '76, 179. Cowan, C. W., Apr. 19, 1867. Cully, Thos., Apr.26, 1810, '73, '78. Denniston, W. H., Jan. 13, 1870, '72, '76. Denniston. D. L., Dec. 3, 1873, '76. Ditts, Gideon, July, 1867, '78. Edson, C. P., May 12, 1862, '67, '70, '73, '76, '79. Fostnaugh, A. J., Apr. 5, 1876. Freidenburg, WM., Oct. 21, 1880. Glenn, H. C., May 26, 1863, '66, '72, '75, '78. Giffin, Wm., Mar. 3, 1868, '72, '75, '78. Mar. 25, 1881. Goodwin, Jos. R., Nov. 7, 1872, '75. Hatfield, W. D., Oct. 31, 1877, Nov. 20, 1880. Hammer, Fred., Mar. 6, 1878. Mar. 6, 1881. Johnson, Davis, Apr. 20, 1866, '69, '72, '75, '78. King, John, Dec. 28, 1868, '72, '75, '78. Kemper, Hathaway, May 27, 1876, '79. Moon, J. J., Mar. 29, 1869. Morgan, H. Morgan, Aug 6, 1879. Milligan, Chas. V., June 20, 1880. 144 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. McGavren, A., Mar. 21, 1873. Price, James L., Apr. 29, 1869, '72, '75, '77. Porter, Andrew J., May 23, 1871, '74, '80. Priddy, E. W., Nov. 9, 1877. Parker, James B., Oct. 18, 1880. Reed, John H., Dec. 13, 1860. Rose, O. W., June 10, 1863, '66. Robinson, Henry, Sept. 19, 1864, '67, '70, '73, '76, '79. Reeve, James K., Jan. 29, 1878. Richey, H. G., Mar. 11, 1878. Mar. 11, 1881. Reeve, Horace A., Aug. 8, 1879. Shipley, George, Aug. 22, 1864. Steel, John W., May 2, 1866. Strother, George, Mar. 24, 1868. Saltzgaber, G. M., Mar. 29, 1869, '72, '75, '78. Shaffner, John F., Apr. 28, 1870, '74. Shissler, Ira P., Dec. 19, 1870, '73, '76, '79. Sims, James H., Dec. 21, 1874,'77,'80. Sutphon, C. M., Jan. 8, 1877, '80. Summersett, J. W., Jan. 31, 1879. Sweet, A. L., June 29, 1880. Taylor, Lee, Aug. 26, 1874. Wells, Geo. E., Nov. 1, 1871, '74, '77. Welch, Dennis. Wyandt, Jacob, Mar. 15, 1880. Williams, D. W., Mar. 18, 1880. Wilson, Wm. W., Feb. 23, 1881. RESIDENT ATTORNEYS-AT-LAW OF VAN WERT COUNTY. 1842. James Barr—R. C. Spears. 1843. R. C. Smith. 1844. S. E. Brown. 1846. C. P. Edson—Perrin De Puy. 1847. J. C. Johnston. 1851. J. W. Steel. 1852. 0. W. Rose. 1854. Israel D. Clark. 1857. Col. I. N. Alexander. 1864. J. L. Price. 1865. C. W. Cowan—J. W. Beers. 1866. John Darnell. 1868. G. M. Saltzgaber. 1870. H. C. Glenn—I. P. Shissler. 1872. George E. Wells. 1873. J. B. Brodnix. 1876. W. H. Cunningham — H. Kemper. 1878. Emerson Priddy. 1879. W. D. Halfhill—J. B. Parker—F. L. Hammer. 1881. A. L. Sweet. INDIAN TRIAL. At the May term of court for Van Wert County a Wyandot Indian was indicted for the murder of another Indian, and was tried by a jury, found guilty of manslaughter, and sentenced to five years in the penitentiary. He was pardoned before expiration of term, in order to enable him to go west with his tribe at the time of their removal to Kansas. In connection with the judiciary we add the names of citizens who composed the first grand and petit jury, and were empanelled as such at May term, 1838:— GRAND JURORS Daniel P. Cross, James Major, Peter Frysinger, Jacob M. Harper, Robert Gilliland, Washington Mark Peter Bolenbaugh, John Keith, David King, John F. Dodds. Ezra F. James, Eli Compton, John Pool, Thomas C. Miller, Henry Major. Daniel P. Cross was appointed Forem PETIT JURORS. Joseph Johnson, Charles Mount, Asahel Burright, Daniel Cook, Joseph Gleason, Daniel Stetter, Stephen Gleason, William Mans, Levi Sawyer, James Young The September session of 1839 was the first session of the court held in Van Wert, the county seat of Van Wert having been removed from Wiltshire. It was held in a log cabin, near or on the site of the new Methodist Episcopal church. VAN WERT COUNTY INFIRMARY. In the year 1864 the commissioners of this county, consisting of Thomas Cully, James Montgomery, and J. Curtis, purchased 320 acres of land four miles east of Van Wert, being the east half of section 11, in Ridge Township. On March 9, 1865, James Montgomery was appointed to cultivate the cleared land not in wheat, and to attend to the interest of the land by preventing the cutting of timber and trespassing upon the rights of the o county. June 6, 1865.—The board of commissioners, consisting of MI Montgomery, Cully, and J. Curtis, ordered a ditch to be made, at acres cleared and put under fence , and also to have made a ki 200,000 brick, preparatory to erecting suitable buildings on said fa' Aug. 16, 1865.—The commissioners paid Henry Coon $30 for a tion of the ground to place the brickyard thereon, he also binding self to give possession of the farm on September 1st. Dec. 7, 1865, the commissioners visited the farm, examined the m of the improvements and the kiln of brick burned by F. J. Lehen, as also a situation upon which to erect the building. They drew an order on the county treasurer for $200 in part pay. March 7, 1866.—F. .T. Lehen was paid $100, the balance due hit manufacturing and burning the brick. March 9, 1866.—The board of commissioners superintended rei the fields and clearing land on the infirmary farms. May 22,1866.—The commissioners having received bids and prop (in pursuance of public notice given) opened the same for the ere of infirmary buildings, to consist of a two story brick building with basement under the same ; size of the building, 46 by 58 feet, contained eighteen rooms. To be furnished and completed and ready for panty by the 1st of April, 1857. The contract was awarded to J Silver, Esq., of Fort Wayne, and Mr. H. D. Schreier, of Van Wert, for the sum of $7300. On March 5, 1867, the commissioners, consisting of Thomas Stephen Copper, and S. F. Conklin, examined and viewed the building, and accepted the same, according to the contract, with alterations improvements, which amounted to $7700. Dr. C. B. Steman was appointed superintendent Feb. 16, 1867 moved into the building March 11, 1867. The first inmate was received on April 3d, and during that year 21 inmates were admitted. The expense for the first year was $4462.44, which included the purchase of a team of horses, harness, wagon, farming utensils, and crops. There has also been erected additional buildings for sleeping ments for female inmates in 1875. It consists of a two-story brick building, 28 by 40 feet, containing 16 rooms, at a cost of $5500. The contains 176 acres of cleared land ; its products during the year has been 925 bushels of wheat, 3600 bushels of corn, 300 bushels of 280 bushels of potatoes, and 22 tons of hay. The average number of inmates during 1880 was 49 1/2. The tot pease for the past year was $3483.79, which includes the purchase reaper and mower, building a granary, and farming uterils. The on the farm 8 head of horses, 38 head of cattle, 85 hogs, and 44 ac of wheat sown. The institution has been well managed by the directors and superintendent, a complete list of whose names we give with the other elected officers of the county. It has been productive of great good, and credit to the county. The building is amply large to accommodate all our unfortunate and infirm citizens of this county, and the farm is coining the model farm of the county. COURT PROCEEDINGS. State of Ohio, Van Wert County, ss : Appearances to May Term, 1838 Henry Reichard (Rood) vs. Rachel McManus et al. Petition for partition. Bill filed. Part. ordered and corn. appt Benjamin Griffin (Phelps & Holt) vs. William Reed. Trespass. John Keith (Phelps) vs. Elizabeth K. Goodwin et al. In Om Bill filed. Jacob Roop (Phelps) vs William Case (Holt). Trespass. The State Ohio vs. A. Hipsher. Indict. for larceny. Defy pleads not guilty. The State of Ohio vs. Samuel Maddox. Indict. for assault and battery. HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 145 The State of Ohio vs. Daniel Cook. Indict. for retailing without license. November Term, 1838. Appearance Docket. John Mark vs. Thomas B. VanHorne and William A. Van Horne. In chancery. William Case vs. William H. Purdy. Debt. John W. Strother vs. William Case. Appeal. The State of Ohio vs. William Case et al. Debt. John Doe and David Huber vs. Richard Roe. Ejectment. April Term, 1839. William H. Purdy vs. David Beem. Appeal. September Term, 1839. Samuel P. Maddox vs. Levi Sawyer. Case continued. Henry Reichard vs. Amos Compton and Eli Compton. Attachment, Asa Cook and Mary A. Cook vs. Levi Sawyer. Case. Rule. Adam Nimmons vs. Philip I. Hines. Appeal. September Term, 1840. Washington Mark vs. The Commissioners of Van Wert County. Appeal. William Marmon vs. Quintin Reed. Appeal. Jacob Markley vs. Levi Sawyer. In replevin. The State of Ohio vs. Jacob Loop. Indict. for destroying timber. May Term, 1841. Henry M. Simmons vs. Cornelius Johnson. Scire facias. John Ewing vs. Solomon Farnham. Assumpsit. Joshua Major vs. Wm. R. Kear. Appeal by plaintiff. October, 1841. Elisha Rigdon vs. Nathaniel Griffin. In case. Benjamin Thorn vs. Jacob Kyle. Assumpsit. John Lords vs. Levi Sawyer. Appeal. Wm. Myers vs. Wm. Lewis. Appeal. Samuel Elder, admr. of Wm. Elder, deck], vs. Thomas R. Kear. Assumpsit. Spring Term, 1842. McCoy, Work & McCoy vs. Emanuel Mayne and wife. In chancery. Washington Mark vs. John Keith. Certiorari Smith & Ballentine vs. Thomas Hudspeth. In covenant. R. Gilliland & Co. vs. Amos Duncan. Scire facias. May Term, 1842. Thos. R. Kear (Spears) vs. S. M. Clark (Barr). Assumpsit. John Arnold vs. Washington Mark. In assumpsit. James G. Gilliland, Treasurer of Van Wert County (Barr), vs. John J. Hoffman. Appeal by defendant. The State of Ohio for the use of School District number three (Crane) vs. Nathaniel Griffin (Phelps). Bill for specific performance. Daniel Cook .vs. D. L. McManima (Barr). Appeal by plaintiff. The State of Ohio (Barr) vs. Wrn. Pollock (Leland). Indict. for perjury The State of Ohio (Barr) vs. John Pool. Indict. for resisting officer. The State of Ohio vs. Oliver Stacey. Indict. for destroying timber. October Term, 1842. Wm. Curtis vs. Wm. Priddy. Chancery. Henry Patterson, admr. of John Powers, deceased (Bebb), vs. Evan B. Jones et al. Chancery. Samuel P. Maddox (Spears) vs. John M. Lords (Barr). In certiorari. C. W. Alexander, agent for Jacob C. Bowser (Spence), vs George Shaffer (Barr). Appeal by plaintiff. Thomas R. Mott vs. John Pool. Scire facias. Wesley Rush (Kennedy) vs. Washington Mark (J. M. Barr). In debt. John J. Hoffman vs. George Cress. Appeal. May Term, 1843. Jacob Strother (Spears) vs. S. M. Clark and Emanual Mayne (Barr. In chancery. Elias Evers, admin of Joseph Clark, dec'd, vs. Nancy Clark et al. Petition for sale. Washington Mark v Lewis Culver. In trespass. E. Zimmerman (Spears & Curtis) vs. William H. Purdy (J. M. Barr). Appeal by defendant. Thomas R. Mott (Barr) vs. Joseph Gleason and wife (Spears). Bill of foreclosure. John Barton (Barr) vs. William Hagerman and wife (Spears). Specific performance. James Baber and Elizabeth Boyer, admins. of Isaac Boyer, deceased (Nevin), vs. S. M. Clark and John Hill (Barr). In assumpsit. George Cress vs. John Gabby. Appeal by defendant. October Term, 1843. S. A. Major vs. John Pool (Barr). In chancery. James Brooks (Mott) vs. W. H. Purdy (Barre. In replevin. Thompkins and Dutton (Barr) vs. Asa Cook. Scire facias. W. S. Ainsworth (Phelps) vs. Amos Compton et al. (Barr). In chancery. A. Farnham (Mott) vs. Jacob Thorn (Leland & Barr). In case. PROBATE COURT PROCEEDINGS. Board of Administrators. Peter Bolenbaugh has this 16th day of November, 1835, been appointed the guardian to Isaac Ayres, Sarah Ann Ayres, and George Washington Ayres, infant children of George Ayres, deceased. Peter Bolenbaugh, William Case. John Thatcher, bondsman. Sept. 20, 1839. Asa Cook, administrator of Abiah Cook. Asa Cook, Amasa Preston. George Banley, bondsman. July 1, 1840 Win. Priddy, administrator of James Maddox. Wm. Priddy, A. Priddy, James G. Gilliland, bondsmen. May 4, 1841. John K. Harter, guardian of Wilson Peterson, minor heir of Isaac Peterson. John K. Harter, George Harter, bondsmen. Oct. 4, 1841. Elizabeth Bevington, guardian of Henry Bevington, Nancy Ann Bevington, Rebecca Jane Bevington, James Bevington, and Nary Bevington. David Walters, Thomas Gilliland, bondsmen. Oct. 4, 1841. Samuel Clark, administrator of Joseph Clark. E. Evers, William Miller, John Smith, S. M. Clark, bondsmen. Oct. 4, 1841. Evans B. Jones, administrator of John Bevington. E. B. Jones, John Heath, Daniel M. Beard, bondsmen. Oct. 4, 1841. Thomas R. Kear, administrator of Noah Frysinger. Thomas R. Kear, Richard Pring, Samuel Foster, bondsmen. Oct. 4, 1841. Sylvester Woolery, guardian of Levi Knox, Susan Knox, George Knox, Lydia Knox, Norman Knox, and Martha Knox. S. R. Woolery, Evan B. Jones, John McColam, bondsmen. Oct. 4, 1842. John Arnold, guardian of Elizabeth Clark and Nathaniel Clark, infant children of Joseph Clark. John Arnold, Benjamin Griffin, Lewis Culver, bondsmen. Nov. 12, 1842. Jacob M. Harper, administrator of Joshua Watkins. .Jacob M. Harper, David Major, Cyrus H. Blossom, bondsmen. Oct. 2, 1843. Jared Gates, administrator of James Hemphill. Jared Gates, David Hitesman, John Barber, bondsmen. Oct. 3, 1843. Stephen Gleason and Nancy Davis, executor and executrix of William Davis. Signed : Stephen Gleason, Nancy Davis, Joseph Gleason, James G. Gilliland, James R. Glenn. 146 - HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO. WILL I, James T. Maddox, of Van Wert County, in the State of Ohio, do. make and publish this my last will and testament in manner and form following, that is to say, First. It is my will that my expenses and all my just debts be fully paid. Second. I give, devise, and bequeath unto my son-in-law, John Hill and Rosanna his wife, the sum of one hundred dollars, to be paid out of the proceeds of the sale of a piece of land situate in Van Wert County and State of Ohio, being the E. half of S. E. quarter and S. W. quarter of S. E. quarter of Sec. 25, T. 1 S., R. 1 E., when said land can be sold for the sum of $500. Third. I give, devise, and bequeath to my daughter Minerva the sum of one hundred and thirty dollars out of the proceeds of the sale of the land above described when said land shall be sold as above mentioned also, one white cow by me now owned. Fourth. I give, devise, and bequeath to my son Thomas H. Maddox the sum of one hundred dollars, to be paid out of the proceeds of the sale of the tract of land above described, and when said land shall be sold as above mentioned. Fifth. I give and devise to my grandson David Maddox and my granddaughter Sarah Jane Maddox, children of my son Charles Maddox, deceased, residing now in Fayette County, Ohio, the sum of fifty dollars to be equally divided to the two and in case of the death of either, the whole amount to the survivor, to be paid to their legal representative out of the proceeds of the sale of land described in the second item of this my last will, when said land is disposed as mentioned in said item. Sixth. I give and devise to my granddaughter Sarah Jane Buzzard, heir of my daughter Rachel, deceased, the sum of seventy-five dollars, to be paid to her legal representative out of the proceeds of the sale of land described in the second item of this my will, and when said land is disposed of as mentioned in said item. Seventh. I give and devise to my son Peter Maddox the sum of twenty dollars, to be paid in young cattle stock. Eighth. It is my will that the proceeds of my personal property (if any remain after all my just debts and expenses are paid) should be equally divided between my son Thomas Maddox and my daughters Rosanna Hill and Minerva Jennings, and my granddaughter Sarah Jane Buzzard. Ninth. I give and devise to my son John Maddox and my daughter Mary Jane Foster all my house furniture, together with beds and bedding, to be equally divided between the two. Tenth. It is my will that the notes that I hold against my sons Peter Maddox, John Maddox, and Samuel Maddox and my daughter Mary Jane Foster, in case the proceeds of land described in the second item of this my will and my personal property should not be enough to discharge my just debts and necessary expenses ; also, to several amounts specified in the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth items or clauses of this my will, or so much thereof as will discharge the amounts so mentioned, otherwise to be void. And lastly : I hereby nominate and appoint William Priddy executor of this my last will and testament, hereby authorizing and empowering him to compromise, adjust, release, and discharge in such manner as he may deem proper, the debts and claims due me. I do authorize and empower him, if it shall become necessary in order to pay my just debts, to sell by private sale, or in such manner upon such items of credit, or otherwise, as he may think proper ; all my real estate and deeds to purchasers to execute, acknowledge, and deliver in fee simple. In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal this 20th day of May, in the year 1840. his JAMES X MADDOX. [SEAL.] mark. Signed and acknowledged by said James T. Maddox as his last will and testament in our presence, and signed by us in his presence. JOSEPH GLEASON, EDWARD R. WELLS. Transactions of the Van Wert County Treasury for the year 1831 taken from the original records in the County Auditor's Office. By taxes for the year 1837 $142 Amount returned delinquent, deducted 12 76 Balance $126 Amount county orders redeemed 103 18 Balance - $23 62 School tax for the year 1837 deducted 17 51 Balance remaining in the treasury January 1, 1838 6 11 THREE PER CENT. FUNDS. What amount and when received. Nov. 13, 1837. Received of Samuel Ruckman $37 75 By an order on the treasurer of Mercer Co., given into the hands of the treasurer of Van Wert for collection 825 85 Amount $863 60 16 50 Balance remaining in the treasury January 1, 1838 $847 10 Received by Wm. Case from State Treasury 273 90 List of County Orders issued and redeemed by Van Wert County in year 1837. 1837. No. order. Jan. 5. 1 John Keith for services as assessor $13 50 " 6. 5 Henry Reichard for books 2 00 " 6. 3 Jesse Atkinson, services as commissioner 10 00 " 6. 4 Joshua Goodwin, " " 10 00 " 6. 5 William Priddy, " " 8 00 " 6. 6 Daniel D. Cross, " as auditor 2 48 Sept. 13. 7 Benjamin Griffin, Associate Judge 7 50 " 13. 8 Joshua Watkins, 2 50 " 13. 9 Benjamin Griffin, " " 7 50 " 13. 10 Oliver Stacey, " " 7 50 Oct. 24. 11 John W. Bear, carrying election returns to Defiance - 18 00 Oct. 25. 12 Ansel Blossom, in part for making out tax duplicate for 1837 2 83 Nov. 18. 13 Jacob M. Harper, services as judge of election 1 00 Dec. 14. 14 Richard Pring " " " 1 00 " 14. 15 Levi Sawyer, judge of, and carrying election reurns 5 10 " 14. 16 Wm. Purdy, services as commissioner 2 00 " 14. 17 Henry Reichard, " " 2 00 " 14. 18 Joseph Johnson, " " 2 00 " 14. 19 John F. Dodds, for book of record 3 00 " 14. 20 David Major, acting as judge of election 1 00 " 29. 21 Wm. Major, services as sheriff " 30. 22 Ansel Blossom, judge of election Total amount - $103 08 List of County Orders issued and redeemed by Van Wert County year 1838. No. order. 23 John L. Harter, for bringing in election returns - $2 00 24 Benjamin Griffin, one dlay's services as judge of election and making returns - 3 00 25 Benjamin Griffin, three days' service as associate judge, including travel - 7 50 26 Oliver Stacey, four days' service as associate judge, including travel - 10 00 27 Joshua Watkins, one day's service as associate judge, including travel - 2 50 28 Charles Mount, for record of deeds book - 3 00 HISTORY OF VAN WERT AND MERCER COUNTIES, OHIO - 147 No. order.