JACKSON TOWNSHIP AND
MORGANTOWN BIOS
TRANSCRIBED FROM THE BOOK
"COUNTIES OF MORGAN, MONROE & BROWN, INDIANA.
HISTORICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL."
HUGH ADAMS, pioneer farmer and
stock raiser, was born April 11, 1808, in Henry County, Ky., and is the
eleventh of the fourteen children of David and Polly (Kephart) Adams,
the former a native of Ireland, the latter of Germany, and respectively
of Irish and German descent. David Adams came to this county about
1830, remained awhile and returned to Kentucky,' then came back, and
here finished his course of life. Hugh Adams was brought up to farmings
and located in this township in 1832, which has since been his
residence, ho living now upon his original entry of 120 acres, to which
he has added 180, making a large farm, well improved and stocked. When
he was eighteen years old, he became an apprentice to the
blacksmithing trade, which he set up in Morgantown and continued five
years. He afterward engaged in f arming, working alternately on the
land and in his shop; but after 1869, he devoted himself entirely to
his farm and stock raising. Mr. Adams has been twice married, first,
January 8,1829, with Miss Ruth Paton, who bore ten children,
Charity, David, Mary J., Elizabeth, Christina, Ruth (deceased), C. H.,
Amy, Sarah (deceased), and an infant deceased. His second marriage
was with Mr. Eunice Kephart, August 26, 1875. Mr. Adams is a Democrat,
and gave his first vote for Gen. Jackson. His career has been honorable
and his life a useful one. He and wife are members of the Baptist
Church.
JACOB
ADAMS, farmer and stock- raiser, was born in this township July
24,
1829, and is the eldest of the six children of Henry and Amy (Kephart)
Adams, both natives of Kentucky, and of Irish and German descent
respectively, who came to and settled in this vicinity in 1828. Jacob
attended school some time during the winters, and worked on the farm in
other seasons until he was twenty five years of age, when he began the
effort of taking care of himself, as a help to which he received 100
acres of rich land as a parental reward. April 13, 1854, he wedded Miss
Mary Lake, a native of Virginia, which marriage gave being to six
children, George A., Rebecca A. (deceased), Henry A., John J. 0.,
Hendricks Y. and infant. Mr. Adams is an esteemed member of the Masonic
fraternity, of the Knights of Honor, and also of the Democratic
party, and has served his township seven years as Trustee and four
years as Assessor. He is an advocate of all good and progressive
measures, a well-to-do farmer and able manager. Mrs. Adams is a member
of the Missionary Baptist Church.
SAMUEL
T. ADAMS, farmer and stock raiser, is a native of this township,
was
born May 19,1848, and is the fourth of the eight children . of Henry
and Nancy (Slusser) Adams. Samuel T. Adams received a common school
education, and was reared to the venerable business of farming. He
worked for his parents until he was twenty five years of age, at which
period he began life on his own account, his father presenting him
with eighty acres of good land, on which he has erected buildings and
added other improvements, making a good home and a desirable
property. May 25, 1873, he married Miss Jemima Kephart, a native of
Owen County, and to which union five children have been bestowed,
Nancy O., deceased; William H.; Charity J., deceased; Ida M., deceased;
and an infant unnamed. Mr. Adams is an energetic Democrat, a
rational and charitable gentleman, and a prosperous farmer and stock
breeder. Mr. and Mrs. Adams are highly respected members of their
community.
JOSEPH
ADAMS, stock raiser and farmer, is a native of this township,
was born
March 22, 1852, and is the eighth of the twelve children of Henry and
Nancy (Sluser) Adams, the former a native of Kentucky, the latter of
Virginia, and of English and German extraction respectively.
Joseph Adams was reared to the farming profession, and received a fair
education. He is the owner of eighty acres of good land; his father,
who is now residing with him in his age, having given to each of his
children some assistance. Recently Mr. Adams has added forty acres to
the paternal gift, making a valuable property and a desirable home. He
is a Democrat by political preference, and a liberal and regarded
citizen. Thus far he has been successful in the battle for
independence, and, with his good management and bright foresight
he must become one of the prosperous farmers of his section.
JOHN
ADAMS, farmer and stock raiser, was born December 14,1834, in
this
township, and is the second of the fourteen children of Jacob and Julia
A. (Shell) Adams, the former a native of Kentucky, the latter of East
Tennessee, and of Irish and German descent respectively. Jacob Adams
came hither about 1830, married, went back to Kentucky for about two
years, when he returned to this county and reared a family. In 1862, he
was elected County Treasurer; he is now a resident of Kansas. John
Adams gave his boyhood to the labor of the farm, during which he
obtained about three months schooling each year; but he qualified
himself by self study, and has taught two terms of school. November 20,
1856, he married Miss Ann Lake, a native of this county, which union
was followed by ten children, eight of whom were named Leroy,
Joseph S., Jacob (deceased), Aviary A., "William K., Amanda C,
Elizabeth and George H. Mr. Adams has managed his business
successfully, now having two good farms, and dealing somewhat in stock.
In politics, he has always been a Democrat, and was elected Township
Trustee in 1866, which office he held for three terms. Mr. Adams is a
liberal citizen, an advocate of public education, and a member of the
Knights of Honor. Mrs. Adams is an esteemed member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church.
GEN.
WILL A. ADAMS (deceased) was born near Greenville, E. Tenn.,
October
24, 1839, and was the eldest of the family of David B. and Desdemona
(Orto) Adams, natives of Tennessee, and of Scotch descent, who
moved to Brown County, Ind., in 1849, where our subject was educated.
During the war—1861—he enlisted in Company C, Twenty second Indiana
Volunteers, at which time he was Clerk of the Circuit Court of Brown
County. He was made Second Lieutenant, and, from efficiency and valor,
promoted again and again, until at the close of the war he was Colonel
of the One Hundred and Forty fifth Indiana Regiment, and, when
discharged, a Brigadier General. He was a brave, honorable, worthy
officer, and an affable and respected gentleman. After the war, he
engaged in merchandising in Brown County, in which, as in all his
efforts, he was signally successful, and happy in obtaining the
confidence of the community. Mr. Adams married, July 9, 1861, Miss
Mary EL. Butler, of Belmont County, Ohio, with an issue of four
children—, Amanda (born September 19, 1865), Ada L. (born May 1, 1868,
died January 12, 1869), Edwin B. (born January 19, 1870, died August 6,
1876) and Emma D. (born August 11, 1872). In the midst of his
usefulness, and in all his well earned glory, the great ravager,
consumption, laid untimely hands upon him, and carried him through
death to greater victory than any earth had given him. He was a true
member of the Masonic fraternity, and also of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. His funeral was large, and his body was interred in the
peerless ceremony of Freemasonry. In politics, he was Republican. He
left his widow well cared for, and provided for his children a fair
beginning.
EZRA
H. BRIGGS, stock raiser and farmer, was born October 8, 1823, in
Franklin County, Mass., and is the ninth of the thirteen children
born to Simeon and Elizabeth (Saddler) Briggs, natives of
Massachusetts and of English extraction. Ezra was reared a farmer,
and remained in his native county until he was twenty six years old, at
which time he came to this State and settled in Dearborn County, where
he was engaged at farming for several years. In 1863, he came to Morgan
County, which has since been his home. Mr. Briggs is a member of the
Republican party, by which he is very highly regarded, and was elected
in the spring of 1872 Assessor of this township. He is a man of liberal
views, of generous character and a prosperous farmer and raiser of
stock.
GEORGE
E. BRONSON was born in Summit County, Ohio, January 25, 1823. He
is a deaf mute, in consequence of early inflammation of the drums of
the ears. He graduated at the Deaf and Dumb Institute at Columbus,
Ohio, where he remained five years, and later learned the printing
trade in Cleveland; but, becoming discouraged, he went to work for the
Recorder of Lenawee County, Mich.; moved thence to Detroit and was
in the Auditor's office, where he remained three months; thence he went
to Milwaukee and thence to Iowa City, where he became a legislative
clerk, and afterward worked in the Recorder's office at St. Louis. He
was later appointed Principal of the Deaf and Dumb Institute at
Nashville, Tenn., where he remained until the war began, after which he
purchased 200 acres of land, and made a trial of farming. July 14,
1852, he married Lucy C. Blacknall, of Tennessee, the result of which
union was ten children, Josephine Alice, Charles Egbert, Benjamin
Franklin, Emma Dora, Abraham Lincoln, Fannie Lisslie, Clarence Ashley,
Silas Ailing, Mildred Maggie and Ida Lucy. After the death of his first
wife, Mr. Bronson wedded, in Logansport, Ind., Annie Barnes; this
marriage took place May 5, 1874, and was followed by five children:
'Effie Nellie, Oassie Mabel, Jessie Edna, Myrtle Maud and. George
Egbert, Jr. In 1868, he sold his Tennessee property and moved to
Morgan-town, Ind. His father bequeathed him $15,000 and his uncle a
like amount.
W.
H. BUTLER, M. D., prominent physician and surgeon of
Mor-gantown, was
born January 15, 1846, in Jennings County, Ind., and is the fourth of
the six children of George and Eliza (Stott) Butler, natives of
Kentucky, and of Irish and English descent respectively. They removed
to Bartholomew County, Ind., where our subject received some education,
worked on the farm, and grew to manhood, having sufficient money to pay
for three years' tuition at Hartsville. December 4, 1863, he enlisted
in Company A, One Hundred and Twentieth Regiment Indiana Volunteer
Infantry, served at the battles of Dalton, Marietta, Ken-esaw Mountain,
Atlanta, Columbia, Franklin, Nashville and Kingston. 'He was discharged
January 8, 1866, after which he prepared himself for teaching; taught
two terms; became salesman in a drug store, and began the study of
medicine under Dr. McLeod, of Barnesville, which he continued two
years, then attended lectures at the Indiana Medical Institute, at
Indianapolis, and graduated in 1879, having previously practiced
at Middlebury, where he continued for a time. May 31, 1877, he married
Miss Jennie Horner, with a result of two children, Chloe A. and George
J. In 1880, Dr. Butler came to Morgantown, in which place he has
established a good and growing practice. He is a member of the Masonic
fraternity, and an active Republican. Mrs. Butler is a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church.
MOSES
T. COFFEY, stock raiser and farmer, is a native of this county,
was
born May 24, 1831, and is the fifth of the ten children of Lewis and
Delilah (Turpin) Coffey, natives of Kentucky, and respectively of
English and Irish descent. Lewis Coffey emigrated to this county in
1828; entered land, which he afterward cleared and sold, then engaged
in flat boating to New Orleans and died in the spring of 1844. Moses
was reared on the paternal farm, and received the rudiments of an
education from subscription schools. After the death of his
father, the care of the family descended upon him, and to which he gave
the wages earned by monthly labor; yet now, as a result of his economy
and application, he owns a good farm of fifty acres, containing
stock, and being generally well improved. March 11, 1852, he married
Miss Lucinda Renner, a native of Ohio, born March 24, 1834, a union
which has been prolific in thirteen children, only eight of whom
received names, George W., Mary J., John D., Philip L., Barbara A.,
Eliza C, Martha P. and "William T. Mr. Coffey is a radical and active
Democrat, by which party he was elected Justice of the Peace in 1874,
for a term of four years. He is a liberal gentleman and his wife is a
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
F.
M. COLEMAN, retired farmer, was born April 10, 1823, in the
State of
Ohio, and is the fifth of the eight children of Jacob and
Elizabeth (Thomas) Coleman, the former a native of Virginia, the
latter of Pennsylvania, and respectively of German and English descent.
F. M. Coleman was reared a farmer, and received but sixteen days'
schooling; yet he has made himself a fair scholar by application. When
he was sixteen years old, his parents moved to Johnson County, Ind.,
where he remained until 1880, engaged in farming, at which time he sold
his place and retired to Morgantown. He began business when of age; was
always successful and industrious, and when young worked at
wagon-making, coopering and blacksmithing, when not employed on
his farm. He has also dealt largely in and been a shipper of stock. May
14, 1845, he married Miss Mary A. Woolard, who died August, 6, 1877,
having borne seven children, Eliza J., Jacob (deceased), Lavica,
Marandall., Ophelia, Margaret (deceased) and Marion. His second wife
was
Miss Ada Wright, a graduate of Lebanon College, Ohio, the ceremony
taking
place December 24, 1881. This lady died in less than one year. His
third wife is Rebecca Stephens, a native of Putnam County, Ind.,
and also a graduate of Lebanon College, which ceremony was performed
May 17, 1883. Mr. Coleman is an active member of the Masonic and Odd
Fellow fraternities. He is a liberal and respected gentleman, and
votes with the Democratic party.
JAMES
S. COLEMAN (deceased), was born in Hartford, Conn.,
November 29,
1848, and was the third of the four children of Jesse O. and Salina M.
(Gardner) Coleman, both natives of Connecticut, who moved to Columbus,
Ind., in 1850, and thence to Edinburg. James S. received a good school
education, and early evinced an aptitude for business, for when but
twelve years old he bought and sold tax titles on speculation, and when
thirteen assisted his father in his store. In 1863, he enlisted in
Company I, Ninety third Indiana Volunteers, and served through the war,
being discharged November 29, 1865. In the following spring, he entered
into partnership with his father in the stove, tin and hardware
business. In 1872, he purchased his father's interest, and
afterward he sustained several heavy losses, but soon resumed. He
was also owner of a saw and planing mill, and was one of the most
enterprising and successful men of his time. May 10, 1870, he
married Miss Harriet Lake, with an issue of five children, Jesse,
deceased; James O., born June 15, 1874; Cora E., born September 8,
1877; Walter Z., born October 8, 1879; and Cecil C, born July 5, 1882.
Mrs. Coleman was born March 17, 1851. Mr. Coleman died January 9, 1883.
He was an earnest member of the order of Odd Fellows, an active laborer
for the Republican party, and a lamented citizen. Mr. Coleman left his
family in comfortable circumstances, with several farms and a good town
property
.ROBERT C.
DAVIS, merchant at
Mahalasville, was born December 18, 1833, in Hancock County, W. Va.,
and is the eldest of the family of Enoch and Nancy (Cunningham) Davis,
natives of West Virginia, and respectively of Welsh and Irish descent
Robert, in company with his parents, moved to Washington County, Penn.,
where he attended the high school and acquired a good education. He
early showed a tact for business, and when seventeen engaged as
traveling salesman, which he followed some years, and then peddled on
his own account. In 1862, be and parents moved to Georgetown, Brown
County, where he continued in business until 1877; during this trip he
lost his goods by the sinking of the boat transporting them. January 1,
1856, he married Miss Louisa H. Ritchey, of Ohio, with the following
issue: John C, William W. and James W. (twins), Ella M., Eva E., Nancy
J., Robert, Charley C, Edgar and Lela. While in Ohio, Mr. Davis served
two terms as Trustee. He is Postmaster, railroad agent and express
agent; carries a large stock of goods, and is an upright and efficient
business man. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the
Knights of Honor. Mr. and Mrs. Davis are members of the Presbyterian
Church.
DAVID
S. DODSON, blacksmith and
wagon maker at Mahalasville, is a native of Hardin County, Ky.; was
born August 2, 1834, and is a son of John B. and Catharine (Ament)
Dodson, the former a native of Kentucky, the latter of Holland, and of
English and German extraction respectively. The subject of this sketch
received a good common school education; was reared a farmer, and
remained with his parents until his twenty fifth year, at which age he
commenced learning his trade, which he has since almost constantly
followed, besides having served nearly four years in the regular army.
In the fall of 1862, he began business for himself at his present
location. The spring of 1868, he married Miss Sarah E. Helton, a native
of Morgan County, Ind., who died after having borne one
child, Judiah K. (deceased). Mrs. Dodson was a member of the M. P.
Church. Mr. Dodson is a member of the Masonic fraternity, the L O.
O. F. and the United Order of Honor. He is an enthusiastic
Democrat, by which party he was elected Justice of the Peace in 1878,
and again in the spring of 1882.
CAPT.
PETER FESLER, Justice of the
Peace and cabinet-maker at Morgantown, is a native of Botetourt County,
Va.., was born April 27, 1836, and is the third of the family of John
and Rebecca (Bickner) Fesler, natives of Virginia and of German
extraction, who came to this county in 1838, and remained until their
deaths. Peter Fesler received ,a plain education, worked on the farm,
and when eighteen years old settled to learn carpentering, which he
afterward followed. April, 1861, he enlisted for three months in
Company K, Seventh Indiana Volunteer Infantry; was in the first
engagement of the war at Philippi, Va.. After this term he re-enlisted
in Company G, Twenty seventh Indiana Volunteer Infantry; was made
First Lieutenant and afterward Captain; served three years, and was in
all the battles of the Potomac division. After his service expired, he
was retained and given command of Company E, Seventieth Indiana
Regiment, and so served until the end, being discharged at
Washington, D. C. On returning to peace, he resumed his trade, and in
1880 began business for himself. December 31, 1869, he married Miss
Emma Collett, of Johnson County, Ind., to which union have followed
three children, Leo El., Mayo R. and Luna A. Mr. Fesler is an
ardent Republican, and was made Justice of the Peace in 1882. He and
wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
WILLIAM THOMAS GIBSON, merchant at
Morgantown, was born March 8, 1862, in Greene County, Tenn., and is the
second of the nine children of Charles and Sarah E. (Kelton) Gibson,
the former a native of Tennessee, the latter of Virginia, and both of
English descent, who first moved to Franklin, Ind.; remained two
years, and then to Nashville, Ind., where they now reside. William
Thomas remained at home until he was twenty years of age, at which
period he came to Morgantown and engaged in his present enterprise,
first as a grocery trade, to which he has added dry goods and notions,
of which he has always a full line and carries a $3,000 stock. He has a
good practical education and is a first class business man, having
begun business with $10 cash capital. September 21, 1881, he married
Miss Amanda, daughter of Col. W. S. Adams (deceased), a long resident
of Morgantown. Mr. Gibson is a member of the Masonic fraternity;
inclined to the Republican party politically, and is a promising
young merchant. Mrs. Gibson is a member of the Methodist. Episcopal
Church.
REUBEN
C. GRIFFITH, M. D., physician
and surgeon at Morgantown, was born December 28, 1845, in the identical
dwelling in which he now resides, and is the thirteenth of the fourteen
children of Reuben and Lovina (Shell) Griffith, natives of Sullivan
County, E. Tenn. They were early settlers of this township, and here
ended their days. Reuben C. Griffith was reared in Morgantown, and went
to school and worked on the farm until he was eighteen years of age.
February, 1864, he became a soldier of his country; was in the range of
battles from Chattanooga to Atlanta; captured at Jonesboro, September
1, 1864; confined at Andersonville, Florence and Charleston, in all
six months, and released February 26, 1865. On account of disability,
he received a furlough, which was renewed until his discharge, June,
1865. He then attended school until 1868, when he studied medicine
under Dr. Johnson, of Martinsville, for two years, and attended
lectures and graduated at the University of Louisville in 1870, soon
after which he opened an office at Morgantown; practiced until 1875;
then attended lectures in New York, receiving there the ad eundem
degree. He then resumed his practice, with honor and renown. August 14,
1872, he married Miss Minerva D. Prosser (sister of the present
Auditor), and his union has been favored with three children , Harry
D., Bessie L. and Delia M. Dr. Griffith is a member of the Masonic
fraternity, and his wife of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
JAMES
HAMILTON, stock raiser and
farmer, is a native of Wayne County, Ky., was born January 13, 1815,
and is the fourth of the eleven children of John and Elender (Collett)
Hamilton, the former a native of North Carolina, the latter of South
Carolina, and of Scotch Irish and English extraction, who came to and
settled in this township in 1825. John Hamilton was a pioneer, and made
the third entry of land. He, with the assistance of his family,
improved a good farm from these primitive wilds, and here closed
his useful life. James received a frontier education, and was reared to
assist his father, with whom he remained until his twenty second year;
then receiving from his sire the sum of $50, with which to begin his
own sustaining; and with this he entered forty acres, which has grown
to be 200 of choice and valuable land, well improved, all the outcome
of labor and frugality. October 20, 1836, he wedded Miss Teresa
Dorothy, of Kentucky birth, and this marriage was cemented by five
children, Elender, Lucinda, William R., Jesse (deceased) and Louisa
(deceased). Mr. Hamilton is a stanch Republican; a liberal and
benevolent gentleman, now rearing the three children of his youngest
daughter. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church.
JOHN
F. HAMILTON, farmer and
stock raiser, was born April 12, 1833, in this county, and is the
fourth of the seven children of James H. and Hannah (Francis) Hamilton,
natives of Kentucky, and respectively of- Irish and German
descent. J ames H. Hamilton moved to Johnson County, Ind., in
1829, remained two years, then moved to this township, where he
died. He was one of the first settlers and, with the aid of his son
John, made one of the best farms in the township. John F. Hamilton was
bred a farmer, and afforded such education as the schools could give.
After the death of his father, which took place in the winter of
1861, he took charge of the farm and remained with his mother until her
death in 1881. He then purchased the homestead, containing 120 acres,
to which he added forty, and has now a good farm, with many and
valuable improvements. January 28, 1864, he married Miss Matilda
Ferguson, born October 8, 1841, by which union they have become
parents of nine children, Lucy A., William F.
(deceased), Mary B., Admira M., James E., Ira W., Minnie, John E. and
Clarence Tl. Mr. Hamilton is an able manager of his affairs and a
prosperous, liberal gentleman. He and his wife are communicants of
the Methodist Episcopal Church.
ABRAM
B. HART, stock raiser and
farmer, is a native of this township; was. born July 13, 1819,
in, Sussex County, N. J., and is the third of four children born to
Nathaniel and Mercy (Rose) Hart, natives of New Jersey, and
respectively of English and Irish extraction. Abram was reared a
farmer, and in 1841 came to this county, locating where he still
resides. With the help of $1,300, he has succeeded in life, and owns a
farm of 220 acres, 150 of which are under fine cultivation, with good
orchard and many improvements. February 8, 1840, he married Miss Sarah
A. Chipps, daughter of Morris and Margaret Chipps, of New Jersey, with
a result of nine children, Mercy, Margaret A., Amos S., Mary
(deceased), Aaron R. (deceased), Mahala E., John W., Sarah E. and Emma
&L Mr. Hart is a practical and prosperous farmer, and a life
long Democrat, having given his first vote for Mr. Van Buren. He is a
man of progressive ideas, and a model father and husband, and a very
greatly esteemed citizen.
MATTHEW
T. HANCOCK:, druggist at
Morgantown, was born May 1, 1849, in Harrison County, Ind., and is the
third of the seven children of Benjamin H and Margaret A. (Senssensney)
Hancock, the former a native of Tennessee and of Irish, the latter of
Virginia and of German descent, who now reside in Washington, in this
State. Matthew was reared a farmer, and continued to labor as such
until he was eighteen years of age, when he engaged as salesman at
Bloomfield, and remained in that employment more than two years,
afterward at Bowling Green, and then began business on his own account
in Lancaster, Owen County, with a stock of drugs, and continued this
two years. After disposing of his stock, he became a salesman for
Robinson & Co., of Terre Haute, for one year. July, 1880, he came
to Morgantown and engaged in his present enterprise, in which he
has been signally successful. Mr. Hancock has always been a diligent
student and a close observer. May 3, 1882, he married Miss Effie C.
Johnson, of Spencer, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Mr. Hancock belongs to the Masonic fraternity. He has the promise of
becoming a leading business man of his section, having begun business
with but $50, and being now worth probably $5,000.
W.
W. HELTON, farmer and
stock raiser, was born October 25, 1807, in East Tennessee, and is the
fifth of the eight children of Beecher and Susan (Winkler) Helton,
natives of North Carolina, and respectively of English and German
extraction. After the death of his father, our subject moved with
his mother to Kentucky, where he was reared on a farm. In 1828 he came
to this county and entered the land on which he now resides, having
once owned 310 acres in the county, and now has 190. For several years
he followed the trade of a shoemaker. September 6, 1827, he married
Miss Nancy Hale, of Tennessee, with an issue of ten children, James B.,
Eliza J., Julia A., Harriet L. (deceased), Sarah E. (deceased), Mary C,
Nancy (deceased), Miranda (deceased), John W. and Susan C. Mr. Helton
is a strong Democrat, having first voted for Gen. Jackson; he also took
an active part in the late Grange movement. He is a worthy citizen, and
has the blessed record of a well spent life. He and wife have been
members for fifty years of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
JAMES
HICKEY, stock raiser and
farmer, is a native of Sullivan County, E. Tenn.; was born January 5,
1824, and is the eldest of the nine in family of John and Catherine
(Shell) Hickey, the former a native of East Tennessee, and of
English, the latter of Pennsylvania and of German descent, who
emigrated to this township in 1843, and lived and died here. James
Hickey received the rudiments of an education from the public schools,
in the meantime working on the home farm and assisting his father at
the trade of brick-laying. He continued to perform these duties
until he was twenty four. In 1854, he commenced mercantile business at
Morgantown, and was recognized as a successful and leading merchant
until his retirement, November 1, 1883. He now resides on a snug and
attractive farm of thirty five acres, cultivated and improved, and
still deals largely and only in the purchase and disposition of
timber. November 23, 1848, he married Miss Hulda Swain, which union was
blessed by five children, George S. (deceased), John H. (deceased),
Mary C., Elbert M., and Walter S. (deceased). Mr. Hickey is an
old time member of the L O. O. F., an active Republican since the
rebellion and a liberal and benevolent gentleman. He and wife are
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
JAMES
H. HICKMAN, stock raiser and
farmer, is a native of Johnson County, Ind.; was born December 2,
1833, and is the fourth of the six children of James T. and Dorothy
(Hamilton) Hickman, natives of Kentucky, and respectively of English
and Irish descent, who came to this section of the State in 1832;
afterward moved to near Morgantown, where he closed his life. James H.
Hickman was reared to the business of farming. He began for himself on
reaching manhood, and, although he received but $600 as an aid in the
struggle of life, has accumulated 350 acres of fine land, in good
cultivation and with many improvements. March 2, 1854, he married Miss
Elender Hamilton, of Morgan County, which union has been crowned by six
children, Theresa J., deceased; Louisa L; William H., deceased; Joseph
P., James N. and Ira E.; they have also adopted a daughter, Louisa I.
Donnell. Mr. Hickman is a Republican, and was an active member of
the Grange organization. He is a liberal contributor to every good
work, and an esteemed citizen. He and wife are efficient members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church.
JOHN
S. HINE, stock raiser and
farmer, was born in Lincoln County, N. C, January 3, 1836, and is the
second child of John G. and Mary M. (Bolinger) Hine, both of whom were
born in the " Old North State," and of German extraction. Our subject
remained at home until lie was twenty eight years old; then began
efforts for himself, and, without any assistance, has obtained a
good home and farm, embracing sixty seven acres, well situated,
drained, stocked, and containing various improvements. He was
reared a farmer, working during summer and going to school during
winter. August 27, 1863, he married Miss Marietta A. Prather, born
November 10, 1844, in this State. This union gave issue to two
children, David L., born February 22, 1866, and Jarvis E.,
deceased, March 30, 1872. Mr. Hine took an earnest part in the
late Grange organization, and is an active Democrat, having given his
first suffrage for Stephen A. Douglas. He is a genial, generous,
enlightened and progressive citizen, also an advocate of public
education. In 1882, he was elected Road Superintendent. Mr. and Mrs.
Hine are communicants of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
OLIVER
L. HINE, farmer and
stock raiser, is a native of this county, was born November 22, 1846,
and is the sixth of eleven children born to John G. and Mary M.
(Bolinger) Hine, both natives of North Carolina, who came hither about
1837, at which early period the country was a wild, but of which they
have made a desirable home and valuable property, comprising 302 acres-
well situated and improved, with full amount of stock. He and his wife
are members of the Presbyterian Church. Oliver L. Hine is now managing
his father's farm. He is a promising and energetic gentleman, a stanch
Democrat and a member of the L O. O. F. Like his father, he is liberal
in character and progressive in ideas, and is a useful and appreciated
member of society.
HARRY
JACKSON was born May 29, 1843,
in Jefferson County, Ind., and is the fifth of the eight children of
Samuel and Jane (Hillis) Jackson, the former a native of North
Carolina, the latter of Indiana. Harry remained with his parents on the
farm until he was sixteen years of age. when he began the struggle of
life for himself, working by the month until August 12, 1862, when he
enlisted in Company I, Seventieth Indiana Voluntary Infantry, serving
in the battles of Dallas, Resaca, Marietta, Savannah, New Hope Church,
Atlanta, Peach Tree Creek and Bentonville, where he was captured and
sent to Libby Prison, being made to march 170 miles, and with but one
meal in three days. He was held captive from February 1864, until the
day before Mr. Lincoln's assassination, and was discharged June 30,
1865. After his return, he purchased a farm in Johnson County, and
September 26, 1867, married Miss Ollie F. Miller, who died, leaving
four children, Rosa, Guy, Roy and Eddie; she was a member of the
Christian Church. His second wife was Miss Sarah A. Lake, whom he
married February 27, 1880. Until the fall of that year, Mr. Jackson
followed farming and buying and selling stock, but afterward came
to Morgantown and engaged in the keeping of a bakery and butcher shop.
Mr. Jackson is a Republican, and he and wife are members of the
Christian Church.
GEORGE
W. KEMP, farmer and
stock raiser, was born December 9, 1849, in this county, and is the
sixth of the nine children of James and Christina (McGowan) Kemp,
natives of Kentucky, and respectively of English and German extraction.
James Kemp was a son of John and Nancy Kemp, of North Carolina. He came
to this county in 1826, where • our subject was educated to farm work,
grew to manhood, and has ever remained. He continued at home until he
was twenty three years of age, when he began business for himself, with
no capital but a bold heart and a strong will. February 14, 1872, he
married Mrs. Caroline (Norman) Hamilton, of this county, born March 3,
1844. This marriage was honored by three children, Rebecca J., Andrew
J. and Sarah E. .Mr. Kemp has been reasonably successful in his efforts
for independence. He has a farm of 165 acres, well located, cultivated
and improved. He is an ardent Democrat, and socially an honorable and
benevolent gentleman. Mrs. Kemp is a member of
the Separate Baptist Church.
SAMUEL
KEMP, farmer and stock raiser,
was born February 6, 1842, in this county, and is the eighth of the
nine children of Samuel and Tabitha (Hicks) Kemp, both natives of
Tennessee, and of English extraction. The subject of this sketch
received a fair education, and was reared to the plow by his father,
who located in this township about 1840, and where he died, having
acquired 200 acres, which he sold to his son Samuel, who now cultivates
150 acres thereof. February 9,1865, he married Miss
Nancy J. Kent, a native of this county, which union has been cemented
by four children, George (born November 29, 1865), Lewis (born May 23,
1868), David (born September 13, 1870), and Corda E. (born June 26,
1874). Mr. Kemp takes proper pride in bestowing education on his
children, and is liberal and progressive in his character. He is a
shrewd manager and a careful investigator, a good business man and a
respected citizen. In political matters, Mr.. Kemp is a solid
Democrat
JAMES
KEPHART, stock raiser and
farmer, was born in Henry County, Ky., July 17, 1823, and is the second
of the family of William and Elizabeth (Herrel) Kephart, also natives
of Kentucky, and of German and English extraction respectively. James
was brought to Clark County, Ind., by his parents in 1824, where they
lived two years; then removed to Johnson County and remained thirteen
years, after which they came to this county, where James received some
education and was taught farming. March 26, 1846, he married Miss
Mary A. Moore, of Kentucky, who died a devoted member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, and the mother of eight children, Serilda, Robert M.,
John "W., Christina, Clar-inda, Mahala (deceased) and two infants
(deceased). Mr. Kephart received no assistance in his early
struggles for home and land, but has now 160 acres, favorably located
and well improved and cultivated, with many improvements. He is a
stalwart Democrat, a good business manager and a respected
citizen. His son is now managing his farm mechanically and he
overseeing.
ISAAC
KNIGHT, farmer and
stock raiser, was born in Nansemond County, Va., October 16. 1830, and
is the sixth of the eighteen children of Levin and Emily (Ellis)
Knight, both natives of Virginia, and respectively of English and
German extraction, who emigrated to Monroe County, Ind., in 1832,
remained seven years, thence moved to Brown County for twelve years,
and thence to Iowa. Isaac Knight was reared a farmer, with the
rudiments of an education. In 1852, he came to Morgan County and
settled in the village of Cope, where he engaged in business for
two years, and afterward took up farming. He has been very
successful in his efforts, being the owner of 120 acres of good
and improved land, together with eight residences, a brick block and a
public hall, these the result of his ability and energy, he
having received but $2,500 from his father-in-law's estate. May 14,
1854, he married Miss Emily Briant, which union has been favored with
nine children, eight having lived to receive names, Benjamin, John W.,
William B., Annie M., Nettie, Alonzo, Clarence and Lulie. Mr. Knight is
a member of the Masonic fraternity and an active Republican; he cast
his first vote ;for Henry Clay. Mr. and Mrs. Knight are members of the
Christian Church, having been such since they were seventeen years of
age.
JOHN
W. KNIGHT, school teacher and
merchant at Morgantown, was born February 11, 1857, in this county, and
is the second of the nine children of Isaac; and Emily (Briant) Knight,
the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of this county. Our
subject was reared a farmer, and obtained a good education, having been
a one year student of Butler University. He remained at home until he
was twenty two years of age, when ne began life for himself as a
teacher, and as which he has been remarkably successful. September 1,
1883, he purchased the grocery stock of Abraham Wootten, and has since
managed the business satisfactorily, having a salesman to attend
to his store while engaged in teaching February 27,1879, he married
Miss Lizzie Blackburn, of Brown County, Ind., which union has been
favored with two children, Omar (born December 20,1880) and Otto M.
(born December 14,1883). Mr. Knight is a successful man, and is in
prospect of a large and increasing trade, being a good observer and a
shrewd manager. He is a liberal Republican politically, and a
generous and valued citizen. Mr. and Mrs. Knight are both members of
the Christian Church.
JACOB
T. LEACH, stock raiser and
farmer, was born September 10, 1850, in Johnson County, Ind., and is
the seventh of the eleven children of John A. and Abigail (Miller)
Leach, both natives of Kentucky, and of Scotch and German extraction
respectively. In 1853, these parents moved to this county and located
in Green Township. Jacob T. Leach has made his home in this locality
since the coming of his father, for whom he labored, except during
school periods, for several years. When seventeen years old, he began
the experiment of life for himself, and, being industrious and
economical, saved the money to found his success. September 22, 1872,
he married Miss Sarah L Adams, a native of this township. Five children
have crowned this union, John H.., Joseph B., William K., Nancy B. and
Robert T. (deceased). Mr. Leach is a practical farmer, an energetic
worker, a liberal and respected citizen, and an active Democrat. He has
made his own way with but little aid, although his wife received $2,000
from her parents as a reward of her fidelity to them.
OWEN
LLOYD, stock raiser and farmer,
is a native of Ireland; was born March 21, 1807, and is the seventh of
the ten children of Owen and Margaret (Murdock) Lloyd, both natives of
Ireland. Owen received a good ordinary education and was reared a
farmer. His grandfather and a brother received from Oliver Cromwell a
grant of 1.900 acres of land, and his father was a large land owner and
extensive farmer. In 3834, our subject emigrated to these shores,
settled in Cleveland, Ohio, for four years, and thereafter, in 1839,
came to his present home and farm. To his original forty acres he added
until he owned at one time 360 acres, most of which he has bestowed
among his children. When quite a young man, Mr. Lloyd manifested a
predilection for trading, in which he was generally successful, and is
indebted to no one but himself for his progress and prosperity. April
7, 1838, he married Miss Sarah Coleman, a native of Ohio. To this union
were bestowed nine children , Robert C. (deceased), Edwin (deceased),
Owen, Davis (deceased). Clotilda, Alice, Francis C, Eliza, and an
infant unnamed. Mr. Lloyd is a Democrat, and was twice elected Trustee
of this township; he is also a benevolent and worthy citizen. Mr. Lloyd
is a member of the Episcopal, and Mrs. Lloyd of the Missionary Baptist
Church.
JOHN
F. MAXWELL, liveryman at
Morgantown, is a native of Butler County, Ohio; was born August 14,
1849, and is the third of the seven children of John K. and Ellen
(McElwain) Maxwell, the former a native of Pennsylvania, the latter of
New Jersey, who moved to Johnson County, Ind., in 1860. John F. Maxwell
began the way of life for himself, when seventeen years of age, by
taking charge of a woolen factory at Eminence, Ind., having formerly
worked in such a place. This he continued for eighteen months, when he
moved to Brownsburg and had charge of the weaving department for about
three years; thence he went to Crawfordsville, and there had charge of
a woolen factory for about six years, and finally came to
Morgantown and began his present enterprise, livery and stave-making.
In 1883, he shipped about 3,500,000 staves. Mr. Maxwell has. been
twice married, first, to Miss Mary J. Gibson," who died after bearing
two children, both of whom departed before getting names; second, to
Miss Minerva J. Julian, who is a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. Mr. Maxwell is an energetic business man, an esteemed citizen
and an active Democrat.
GEORGE
M. MONTGOMERY, hardware
merchant at Morgantown, is a native of Johnson County, Ind., and is the
second child of his parents, Duncan and Li His (Holman)
Montgomery, the former a native of Scotland, the latter of Indiana. Mr.
Montgomery emigrated to America in 1832. George M. was born
December 15, 1853; was reared a farmer, and worked thereat and attended
school until he was sixteen years old, at which time he became a
cripple, and thus incapacitated from farm labor, although he is owner
of 137^ acres of excellent land, improved and cultivated. In the
summer of, 1880, he moved to Morgan-town and purchased the hardware
business of James S. Comer, which he has since managed successfully and
satisfactorily. He carries a varied stock of about $3,500, which is
increasing. October 17, 1876, he married Miss Mary E. Bass, and to them
have been born two children, Arthur D. and Ivey M. Mr. Montgomery is a
Liberal in politics, an upright and watchful merchant and a generally
esteemed citizen.
CAPT.
WILLIAM MOUNT, farmer and
stock raiser, was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, October 25, 1827, and
is the eldest of the four children of Obadiah B. and Gitty A.
(Skillman) Mount, both natives of Ohio, who moved to Union County,
Ind., about 1837, on the 2d of February of which year Mr. Mount
departed this life. William Mount received a fair education from
the common schools, and learned the ancient vocation of farming, which
he followed until the summer of 1862; then, together with W. W.
Wingett, raised Company G, of the Sixty ninth Regiment Indiana
Volunteers, Mr. Mount being made First Lieutenant, but was acting
Captain most of the time, that officer being on detached duty. He was
in the following engagements: Richmond (Ky.), Arkansas Post, Thompson's
Hill, Raymond, Baker's Creek, Black River Bridge, and with Gen. Grant
at Vicksburg. After his regiment was transferred to Texas, he
participated at the battle of Mobile, where he received a slight wrist
wound and was mustered out, but discharged at Indianapolis in August,
1865. The war being over, he removed to Columbus, Ind., where he
engaged in the grocery business for several years, when he sold the
same, removed to Indianapolis, and was some time on the special police
force; thence he removed to this county in 1879, where he has since
resided on a good farm of 100 acres. December 1, 1847, he married
Miss Eleanor Dare, with a result of one child, Edward F. (deceased)..
Capt. Mount is an energetic Republican, a liberal, charitable
gentleman, a shrewd man of business and a valued citizen. His mother
resides with him, and is a member of the Presbyterian Church since
girlhood.
JOSEPH
H. NORMAN, farmer and
stock raiser, was born in this township October 8. 1839, and is the
sixth of the eight children of James and Sarah A. (Harrison) Norman,
the former a native of North Carolina, the latter of Tennessee, and
both of Irish descent. James Norman emigrated to this county in
1831; then returned to Tennessee for three years, when he came back to
this county and finished his days; he was possessed of 320 acres
of land. His wife survives him and resides with the
subject of this sketch. Joseph H. was reared a farmer, and has a good
farm, embracing ninety six acres, well cultivated and with stock and
improvements. March 28, -1861, he married Miss Ruth Kemp, a native
of this county, which union has been fruitful of five children, George
W., Robert C, Harriet V., Samuel A. and Edward. Mr. Norman received
some aid in the beginning of his career, but has succeeded by means of
his will and management He is a good husband, father and citizen, an
unchangeable Democrat, and, with his wife, a valued member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church.
JOSEPH
T. NORMAN, farmer and
stock raiser, is a native of Over-ton County, Tenn.; was born October
1, 1823, and is the youngest of the twelve children of William and Mary
(Kemp) Norman, natives of North Carolina and of English extraction.
William Norman came to this county in the fall of 1830, where he
entered land, and, with the assistance of his sons, made a very
excellent farm, which continued to be his home until removed by death.
He had been a soldier of the war of 1812. Joseph T. Norman was reared a
farmer under his father, obtained a pioneer education and remained
with his parents until he was about twenty two years of age, engaged in
rail-making, log-rolling and clearing land. In 1844, he married Miss
Betsey E. Williams, of North Carolina, who lived to bear eleven
children, Caroline, Nancy, Sarah, Catherine, Jefferson, Joseph L.,
Frank P., George W., William (deceased), Rutha J. (deceased) and Thomas
A. He next married, September 7, 1864, Mrs. Nancy R. Thomas, a native
of Indiana, to which union were bestowed four children, Grant,
Sheridan, Daniel W. and Sherman (deceased). Mr. Norman has been
successful in his efforts toward independence, being possessed of 600
acres of land, much of which is improved, cultivated and stocked. He
cast his first vote for James K. Polk, but adopted the Republican party
as soon as born, and has adhered to it. He is a charitable,
liberal citizen, and much esteemed.
JOHN
J. NORMAN, farmer and
stock raiser, is a native of this county; was born January 17, 1850,
and is the fifth of the eleven children of Joseph T. and Elizabeth
(Williams) Norman, the former a native of Tennessee, the latter of
North Carolina and respectively of English and German extraction. John
J. Norman was reared a farmer, received the rudiments of an education,
and remained with his parents until he was twenty one years of age, at
which time he began life for himself, receiving from his parents a
horse and cow to begin with. May 26, 1870, he married Miss Emeline
Lake, a native of this county, by which union succeeded two
children, Delie (born February 17, 1871) and George W. (born April 18,
1874). Mr. Norman is now residing on the farm of his father. He is a
Republican by political preference, a liberal gentleman and an esteemed
citizen; he is likewise a practical farmer, whose success is due to his
energy and wise management.
W.
W. RAPER is a native of this
county, was born August 28, 1861. and is the second of the family of
nine children bestowed on Andrew J. and Julia A. (Helton) Raper, the
former a native of Monroe County, Ind., the latter of this county, and
both of English extraction. The subject of this sketch was reared to
the ancient business of husbandry, and acquired some education from the
common schools. He is now acting as overseer of the farm of his
grandfather. Mr. Helton is an energetic, .industrious and
promising young man, a practical farmer and an esteemed gentleman. In
political preference, he is a member of the Democratic party.
HENRY RENNER, proprietor of a saw
mill and grist mill at Mahalasville, also a farmer and stock raiser,
was born January 15, 1828, in Wayne County, Ohio, and is the second
child of Philip and Mary (Bidleman) Renner; the former a native of
Pennsylvania, the latter of Ohio, and both of German extraction, who
came to this section in 1839. Henry Renner was brought up to the farm
and the school, thus acquiring some education and learning the farming
vocation. By industry and frugality, he has acquired a good property,
having a fine farm of 246 acres, much cultivated and variously
improved; he is also in enjoyment of a liberal patronage in his mills
and purchases grain largely. January 15, 1852, he married Miss Jane, a
daughter of James and Mary A. Gibbs, to which union eight in family
have been bestowed, Philip, Mary, Eliza E., James W., Martha A..
Louisa, Retta and Eddie. Mr. Renner is a gentleman of enterprise and
liberality, an uncompromising Democrat and a worthy citizen. Mrs.
Renner is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
GEORGE
W. SKINNER, farmer, was born
June 15, 1825, in Belmont County, Ohio, and is the fifth of the family
of Philip and Hannah (Coon) Skinner; the former a native of
Pennsylvania, the latter of "West Virginia, and both of German descent.
George W. received only a rudimentary education, but has been a
close student, thereby acquiring much practical knowledge. In 1844, he
located in Morgantown, and after the death of his parents he received a
small amount of means with which to begin life; he first purchased
forty four and then forty acres of the homestead, and has dealt also in
lumber and timber. June 29, 1846, he married Miss Partheny Lake, a
native of Virginia, which union gave issue to ten children, William
(deceased;, Mary, Elizabeth A. (deceased), Emma (deceased), Samuel, Ida
(deceased). John A., Caleb and Barbara (twins, the latter deceased) and
Burton. Mr. Skinner has been usually successful in his undertakings,
having a clear perception and much executive capacity. He is a
warm adherent of the Republican party, a stanch friend to humanity and
a good citizen. He and wife belong to the Missionary Baptist Church.
IRA
C. WILLAN, M. D., one of the
leading physicians and surgeons of Morgantown, Ind., was born July 27,
1859, in Hart County, Ky., and is the third of the eight children of
Dr. Elzy B. and Carrie R. (Murrey) Willan, natives of Kentucky, and of
English extraction, who moved to Trafalgar, Johnson County, Ind. in
1861, where Ira grew to manhood, and, in his father's drug store,
received an early medical training, having served as clerk for eighteen
months therein. After receiving a good education at the schools, he
entered on the study of medicine under his father for two years,
after which he attended two courses at the Indiana Medical College,
department of Butler University, from which he graduated in the
class of 1883, and with great honors. July 26, 1883, he opened a
medical office at Morgantown, and has even now been successful in
establishing himself with the people as a young practitioner of ability
and promise. We predict for him a lucrative practice and general
renown-
FREDERIC
WILLIAMS (deceased) was born
May 3, 1828, in North Carolina, and was the fourth of the eleven
children of William and Catherine (Haase) Williams, also natives of
North Carolina, and of Irish and German descent respectively. Frederic
came to this county when quite young, which was his home until his
decease, July 21,1882. He received his education from the „ pioneer
schools, and was reared on a farm he settled in the forest, and, with
some help from his father and rigid economy, accumulated sufficient to
make his family comfortable. March 12, 1858, he married Miss Rutha J.
Kemp, a native of this county, and to their union were bestowed eleven
children, nine of whom lived to be named, George W. (born December 8,
1860), Aaron, (born November 22, 1861), John J. (born May 5, 1863),
James W. (deceased), Andrew J. (born June 22, 1866), Robert E. L.
(January 16, 1869), Frederic (born April 10, 1870), Nelson (born
February 13,1872) and Cordelia (born May 1, 1874). Mr. Williams was
possessed of about 200 acres of farm land, and was a man of energy and
endurance toward the end of becoming independent. He was liberal,
genial and esteemed. In political matters, he was an active
Democrat