Vanderburgh County
Biographies

The following bios are from the book A History of Evansville and Vanderburgh County, Indiana: A Complete and Concise Account from the Earliest Times to the Present, Embracing Reminiscences of the Pioneers and Biographical Sketches of the Men who Have Been Leaders in Commercial and Other Enterprises By Joseph Peter Elliott Published by Keller Print. Co, 1897 Original from Harvard University Digitized Jan 31, 2008 499 pages; from GoogleBooks.

GEN. ROBERT M. EVANS.

The author's first knowledge and acquaintance of Gen. Robert M. Evans was in February, 1837. At that time General Evans was a little past middle age, but showed signs of the effect of camp life while engaged in the war of 1812-1813 in suppressing the Indians that infested the territory of Indiana, and the states of Kentucky and Illinois. He was a general under General Harrison, whose headquarters at that time were at Vincennes, Indiana. He was at the battle of Tip- pecanoe in command of a regiment or brigade, and was on the staff of General William Henry Harrison.

General Evans located in New Harmony, Indiana, about 1826 and kept a hotel at that place. He came to Evansville a second time about 1828 and bought a half interest in Hugh McGary's purchase, and laid out the city of Evansville above Main street, known as the original plan of Evansville.

General Harrison and General Evans, so long as they both lived, were warm friends, and in 1839 General Harrison visited him at Evansville.

This country was then full of military enthusiasm and there were three substantially equipped volunteer companies, well-drilled in this city and county.

Three companies escorted General William Henry Harrison and General Evans, who went arm in arm from the Evans homestead through the various streets of the city.

Not many years after this, these two great and distinguished patriots passed to the beyond, beloved and respected by thousands.

It is said that in the early part ot 1827, Rev. Alexander Campbell visited New Harmony and stopped at the community hotel, and while there General Evans had a lively religous controversy with the celebrated divine. General Evans' family consisted, at this time, of himself and wife, son Cornelius and daughter, Miss Julia Evans, a beautiful young woman. His brother's name was Leyl^ [sic], and his sisters were Mrs. Dr. Thompson and Mrs. John Schnee. When he was a candidate for Congress he stumped the district.

HENRY FITCH BLOUNT.

Henry F. Blount was born in Richmond, Ontario county, New York, May 1, 1829. His father, Walter Blount, came to western New- York from Norwich, Conn., when a boy, and was a soldier in the war of 1812. The family came originally from England, late in the 17th century, and settled in Massachusetts. Walter Blount, the father of Henry, was a wooleu manufacturer, carried on the business first in Ontario county, New York, and in the winter of 1830 moved to Cat- taraugus county, where he bought a larger mill, and in which the son learned the rudiments of the trade; and it was under the training and influence of his father, whose methods were ever of the humanitarian order, that the sou was imbued with that spirit of fair dealing with the men in his employ, which has made his career as a manufacturer so successful.

On the death of the father, which occurred in 1845, the son was placed in a country store, (" commercial house," the young men of today would call it) to learn the methods and principles of business; and it was a happy circumstance that the father's training was supplemented by one equally as favorable-in another department, for it was here that the more mature lad learned those business methods which he ever after practiced, and to which he attributes his success as a financier. After three years and a quarter the young man concluded to take the advice of Horace Grecly, and "go west and grow up with the country." And so, in the autumn 1849, he started, going via Lake Erie to Detroit, and from there to New Buffalo by rail, and across the lake by steamer. There was no railway running into Chicago from the east at ihat time. His first winter was spent in Peoria, 111., the following summer in Iowa, from whence he went toAVorthington, Ind., in the autumn. Here he began his first business life, as a partner with George W. Langworthy, with whom he was associated for eight years.

Having succeeded far beyond his expectations, he sought the larger field of business in the growing city on the Ohio river, where he spent the next twenty-six years — from 1860 to 1886 — really all the remainder of his active business life.

The first ten years of his life in Evansville was devoted to the foundry business, as partner and financial manager in the firm of Roelker, Blount & Co. He also became a partner, and was the financial manager of the firm of James Urie & Co. in 1867. In the winter of 1869-70 he sold his interest in the foundry business, and six months later became the sole owner of the Blouut Plow Works (the successor to the Urie Company.) This establishment, from the small dimensions which it possessed in 1867, has grown to its present immense capacity by virtue of that sort of genius which comprehends the capacity of every one in his employ, and to put every man in the place he is best fitted the fill, and above all to recognize in every workman a fellow man. This alone is a good reason why a strike has never occurred in his establishment. Mr. Blount was married while living at Worthington to Martha Baird, by whom he had three children, two of whom are still living, Frederick, the president of the Lone Star Salt Co., of Texas, and Rose, who lives with her two children at Kalamazoo, Mich. She was married to Samuel B. Nisbet, of Evansville. Martha died in 1862. The second marriage was in 1864 to Lucia A. Eames, of Kalamazo, Mich. By this marriage six children were born, four of whom are living, two daughters and two sons.

In the summer of 1886 Mr. Blount and family went to Europe, more especially to study the French language, as he had become convinced that it was practicably an impossibility for one taught a foreign language in this country to speak it with any degree of fluency. They lived a year most delightfully in a villa near the old city of Tours, in France, and another at that charming old French-Swiss city, Geneva. In the autumn of 1888 the family returned to America, and settled in Washington, and have for a number of years lived at "the Oaks," the most charming of the many famous old homes on Georgetown Heights. This grand old mansion was built by the Beverlys, of Virginia, (the local historians of Washington's time) in 1805, and was occupied by them till about 1821, when it was bought by the Cal- houns, John C. and his brother, who occupied it till about 1832-33.

It was here that they entertained Lafayette when he last visited this country.

The life in Evansville was always characteristic of the man ; ever ready to advance the interests of his adopted city, whether in its business or its literary improvement. When by the philanthropic gift of the Hon. Willard Carpenter the library was built, Mr. Blount was chosen as the president of its board of trustees, and held that position as long as he remained in the city. He was also a member of the board of directors of the Evansville National bank, and of the Old National for many years, and was instrumental in organizing the first railway leading out of the city to the east, and gave us our first direct connection with Louisville through Southern Indiana. In politics Mr. Blount was a republican, but in city affairs often cut loose from party, believing that in municipal affairs party should give way for capability and integrity. His church affiliation was with the Walnut Street Presbyterian, but in his religious belief, like his political, his range was not confined to the sect to which he had attached himself, but believed that there "was good in all, but none all good." In his new home in the nation's capitol, he seems to have carried the same characteristics as pervaded his life in Evansville. He has been for a number of years president of the board of trustees of the Industrial Home School, is vice president of the Central Dispensary and Emergency Hospital, chairman of the committee on parks and reservations of the board of trade, and member of the executive committee of the American Security and Trust Company, the largest monetary institution in the city, except those of the government. And while his head shows the effects of the frosts of a good many winters, his sixty-seven years have not been able perceptably to diminish the elasticity of his step, or the cheerfulness of his disposition. His old friends, his business associates, and his employes all extend to him the hand of welcome as each year brings him to his old home to sit down with his workmen and their families at the annual dinner which he provides for them on the first day of May, his birthday. May he live long to do this.

CARL F. ROSENKRANZ.

Carl F. Rosenkrauz was born in Koenigsberg, Prussia, February 25, 1810. He was the fourth son of a family of seven sons and two daughters, children of Gottfried and Renate Rosenkranz. Six of the sons served in the Prussian army ; the oldest afterwards received an appointment as royal forrester. The second learned the trade of a blacksmith, while the four others learned the trade of their father, who was a builder of tower clocks long before machine-made clocks were thought of. The mother of these boys and girls, all of whom inherited robust physiques, was the daughter of a foundry man named Werner.

The subject of this sketch served as a member of a royal grenadier regiment for a number of years after his first enlistment term of three years. He then established himself in the business of watch-making at Baerwalde, an old-time fortress, where on the 10th of February, 1840, he married the widow of Samuel Speck, who was six years his senior and the mother of two sons and two daughters. The oldest of these sons, Wm. A. Speck, is an honored and well-to-do citizen of Owensville, in this state, and the other, Samuel E. Speck, of Gray- ville, Illinois. On the 26th of October, 1842, the only child of this union was born and named Albert Carl. The revolution of 1848 involved some of the relatives of the Rosenkranz family, who, with many others, concluded that a change -of climate would benefit them; and they left their native land for the home of the free and the brave ; some settling in Texas, others in Wisconsin.

In the early spring of 1850, Carl F. Rosenkranz and his wife sold their town and farm property, and in May started, with their five children, from Bremerhaven for the new home beyond the seas ; the north of Texas, by way of New Orleans, being their destination.

After a tedious voyage of nine weeks on a crowded emigrant sailing vessel, they reached New Orleans on the 5th of July, 1850. During this long voyage a difference sprang up between those who were to form the Texas colony, and they concluded to separate. Mr. Rosenkranz embarking with his family on the first boat that left for the Ohio river, with no definite plans as to where they would land. On shipboard they had formed some acquaintance with a family who were going to join relatives living near Evansville ; and their good account of this locality induced them to stop here. Mosquitos and prickly heat tortured the new comers on their trip up the river, and all were glad when their long journey came to an end and they could again rest on terra firma, though strangers among people speaking a language they could not understand. An independent life in a free country had been Mr. Rosenkranz's ideal ; consequently he did not stop long in the very common-place village on the Ohio ; and with the aid of Martin Schmoll, who made a business of looking after newly arrived Germans, he bought a farm, near what is now Inglefield, from James White; who, with many others, had caught the California gold fever.

Farm life was made romantic enough, and here this son, Albert C., started to learn the English language, in the rude country school where his knowledge of arithmetic, geography and a little Latin caused him to be regarded with wonder by the other scholars, who had thought all green Dutchmen were stupid.

In about a year the romance of farm life gave way to the American spirit of money-making ; and as watch-making in town seemed the better medium, before long a modest sign " C. F. Rosenkranz, Watchmaker," appeared on the window of a little house on Second street, between Main and Sycamore streets. His skill brought him customers, and finding a buyer in the person of Fred. Fenchler, who had recently removed here from New Orleans, he sold the farm and invested the proceeds in the property then owned by Harrington & Lockhart on Second street, adjoining the present B. M. A. building. Here Mr. Rosenkranz labored with unremitting industry for seventeen years, his son entering the business at the age of thirteen, as an apprentice, in 1855, rendering valuable assistance for six years until he entered the union army in 1862. At the close of the war the son, then a major of the fourth Indiana cavalry regiment, returned home and re-entered the business, which continued for two years under tbe name of C. F. Rosenkranz & Son. The very close attention given by Mr. Rosenkranz during so many years to business, dwarfing in its effect on the mental and physical powers, with the absence of congenial society, combined to produce a discontented state of mind which culminated in a long visit to Europe by Mr. Rosenkranz. His wife remained here where all her children were located and prospering. Thus the family separated in 1868 and were never re-united. Mr. Rosenkranz traveled extensively and finally entered to rest on the 1st day of January, 1886, in Baerwalde, Germany. His wife had gone before him, on the 21st day of July, 1884. This short history of the life of Carl F. Rosenkranz, as it relates to his connection with Evansville, would be lacking if nothing were said about the character of this man, which exerted an influence at the time and determined the career of his son.

He had superior intellectual gifts, was an ardent lover of nature, detested shams of all kinds, was an agnostic in religion yet loved mankind. He endeared himself to the few who knew him intimately. No son ever had a more affectionate father and friend.

WILLIAM A. HESTER.

The energetic school superintendent, Professor William A. Hester, inherits the talent and qualities of progress he possesses from a long line of ancestors who have been in the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal church. His father, his grandfather and some of his relatives have been teachers of God's sacred word, and at the same time were of that class of pioneer men whose services to their fellow-men aided in the development of the present state of education and civilization.

Mr. Hester was born in Indianapolis, on March 17, 1858. His father, at the time, was pastor of one of the Methodist churches there. He was graduated from DePauw university in 1881, and his scholarship there ranked high. Previous to his graduation he had adopted the profession ot teacher. For four years he was a teacher in the schools of southeastern Indiana, two of which years were immediately before he received his degree from DePauw, and the other two immediately after. Before the close of the year 1882, he was selected as principal of the high school at Owensboro, a position he filled without intermission from that time until he became connected with the schools of this city in 1890, as principal of the Campbell Street school. His excellence iu his chosen work was so clear that in 1894 he was unanimously selected by the school trustees as superintendent of the public schools here, and he is still filling with credit to himself and profit to the schools and satisfaction to the city this responsible and important position. He has well demonstrated his thoroughness in his work, his comprehensiveness of the best methods of developing the tender young minds, his progressive ideas and approved system of teaching, and his masterful attention to detail as well as routine work. He has had but one general aim all along, and that is "forward." He has spared no personal effort, he has shunned no reasonable sacrifice to make his labors profitable to those under his supervision. He has not been neglectful in applying every form of progress, every new and approved educational method, every inductive plan that has been successfully tried, every devised way that would enlist the beginner and hold the attention and interest. In the primary department, where the best work is done, he has been especially felicitous. It is here that a man's superior powers of teaching are shown, or the lack of such powers are disclosed ; it is here that so many teachers fail in their ability to develop the active young intellect, seeking for new light and new knowledge. Success here is success Jn every higher grade of learning. The pupil is led up through the different grades so skillfully that the art of literary expression becomes a delight and an ease. Expression, by tongue or pencil, in this modern life is necessary, and correctness of expression is a proud achievement. This has been one of the ultimate objects of Mr. Hester's plan of education. He has associated with him in this work a corps of competent and wide-awake teachers, and without flattery to him or disparagement to any of his predecessors, it may be said that the schools were never more ably taught than at the present.

The high school is separated into departments, with a specialist over each. All the various schools throughout the city are successfully and honestly taught. u

It may be said of Mr. Hester that he is a man of fine administrative ability. His excellent scholarship, his deep earnestness, his conscientious work, his gentlemanly qualities, his charitable disposition, his regard for the feelings of others distinguished him at once as a man eminently fitted for the great position he is so ably filling. He is indefatigable in his labors, and never wearies in carrying out his purposes and plans.

WILLIAM HUGHES.

William Hughes arrived in New York from Ireland in 1837. After making quite a tour of the country, he heard of a flourishing paper mill in Madison, Indiana, which he hoped to secure. Failing in this, he embarked in the dry goods business in that town with William Griffin. In 1839 he married Miss Emelia Davidson, and shortly afterward moved to Evansville. He built the brick store on Main street opposite the Gilbert-Miller building, and opened one of the first dry goods houses in the city. He afterwards sold the building to Richard Raleigh and moved to the corner of Second and Main streets, where he conducted the same business for many years. Moving into larger quarters as the city improved, he combined wholesale and retail.

His business career was very successful. He was a clear-headed, conservative business man. His honor was dearer to him than life, and he adhered to the strictest integrity in all his transactions. Mr. Hughes was much interested in the cause of education, actively using his influence in promoting the establishment of the public schools, and was one of the first board of trustees. He was a devoted and sincere Christian — a member of the Catholic church, and always foremost in any effort for the cause of religion. He passed away in his seventy- fifth year, leaving a name honored and respected by all who knew him. Three sons and two daughters survive him. Two of the sons continue the business, Alfred and Reuben. The third is a successful merchant at Marshall, Illinois.

SILAS STEPHENS.

It is not because Silas Stephens married the only daughter of General Robert M. Evans — Julia Ann — that entitles him to public recognition in a brief biographical sketch, but on account of his own worth and acts. In 1837 Mr. Stephens was the sole proprietor of the only saddlery in the town. After disposing of his business to the author and his brother, Dr. William M. Elliott, he engaged in the sawmill business on the river front. He was the owner of the first steam sawmill built in Vanderburgh county. Naturally he succeeded in this.

The elements of success were in him. Then he engaged in farming in Center township, developing a rare tact for managing land to the best advantage. A little past middle life he yielded to death. He was a man held in great respect for his integrity and high manly principles. His wife had entered upon her long rest shortly before him. Their only daughter, Mrs. Jane E. Scantlin, is now living in this city.

CADWALADER M. GRIFFITH.

In 1837 Cadwalader M. Griffith opened the first regular hardware store in the town. A man of thorough business qualities, he succeeded rapidly in building up a large trade. His business career was cut off by death in early life. A widow, daughter and two sons survived him.

His daughter afterward became Mrs. Dr. S. W. Thompson. His elder son is now a partner in the Orr hardware store, of this city; the other son is a farmer in Knox county, Ind. The death of Mr. Griffith was a loss to business. He was universally respected, and was a member of the Episcopal church, and a consistent Christian.

THE LUNKENHEIMER FAMILY.

Jacob Lunkenheimer and his brother, Frederick, emigrated to America, arriving in New York in November, 1845. They came from Bingen on the Rhine, that poetically historical spot, rendered familiar to every American school-boy by a poem in his reader. Jacob was born October 10, 1823, and Frederick was born April 13,1826.

They at once, on arrival in this country, proceeded to Mt. Carmel, 111., where they resided for three years. They at first engaged in farming.

As was natural and commendable they wished to better their circumstances, and to do this they sought a larger field of operation. So again they changed their location, and for the last time. They came to Evansville with their old German wagon in July, 1848. They camped on the corner of Main and Third streets, where Nathan Gross's large store now stands, in a cluster of trees or grove, and stopped at the old Taylor hotel later. They at once, however, entered into business, and opened a confectionery store, saloon and restaurant on Second street, where Curnick's business college is now located, remaining there for two years. Jacob then went into the firm of Law, .Johnson & Lunkenheimer. Their law and real estate business office was on t\>c upper floor of a frame building on Fir.st street, where LoewenttiaY6 store now is. This partnership lasted over three years. Then Jaccr became a partner of Charles Denby, and their law and real office was on Third street.

It was apparent that these two brothers had descended from a. wart, brainy family, and some of their transactions developed th that they were men of more than ordinary talent in commercial ters. Their talent was needed in conducting the affairs of the co and Jacob was elected county clerk, serving from 1852 to 1857. brother, Frederick, was his deputy clerk. So acceptably and effici^13*'^ did they conduct the duties of this office that Frederick was el county recorder, and served from 1860 to 1864- Thepositio*^ filled satisfactorily to the people, so that they elected him county urer, his term running from 1866 to 1871.

Jacob Lunkenheimer died in September, 1859, and his deatt* felt to be a great loss to the public. Few men possessed the tact and skill and broad knowledge of humanity that he did. -*1 ^' men ever performed the duties of a public office with more sli** 0>> more in accord with the wishes of the people. Few men were so lutely honest and faithful and genial in every circumstance of life- was the verdict of every one that he was an "honest man," than no higher eulogy can be passed on any one. Two children were l>°rtl to him, but they died young.

Frederick Lunkenheimer died August 4, 1885. It wasa fact, to every one in the county and even far beyond, that no man, public office, ever had the confidence of the people so completely* or himself had their interests and general good more at heart. He files ivlvam: mat' 1 a man, few of whom are like him — honest,350 , punctual, efficient, thorough, genial.

To him were born eleven children, eight of whom are still living, to- wit: Jacob W., Miss Carrie, Oscar, Edward, Miss Lillie, Clinton, Miss Ida and Miss Kate. There are two sisters of Frederick and Jacob living to-day in this city, Mrs. Valentine (Kate) Diedrich and Mrs. Andrew (Eva) Schlauch.

The oldest son of Frederick, named Jacob W. Lunkenheimer, is in the glassware business, a member of the firm of Blackman & Lunkenheimer. He is a prosperous and successful business man, and deservedly so.

J. B. THOMAS.

The subject of this sketch was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, March 28, 1821. At the age of twenty-five he embarked in the coal business on the Monongahela river in Pennsylvania, loading coal in barges and shipping the same to Cincinnati, Louisville, Memphis and New Orleans. In 1854 he moved to Pittsburg, still operating his coal mines. Five years later, with that shrewd business sagacity that would gain the advantage of competition by reducing the expenses of transportation, he opened up a large coal mine on Green river, Kentucky, and shipped his coal to Memphis, Tennessee. In 1860 he located in Evansville, still operating his coal mines on Green river, near South Carrolton, Kentucky. He opened up a large new coal mine in Spottsville, Kentucky, in 1862, and brought this coal to the Evansville market. He brought the first Green river coal to this city that was ever in the market. While in the coal business he owned and commanded several steamboats. He purchased the First avenue coal mines, in this city, in 1877, and operated the same up to the time of his death, which occurred January 26, 1892.

He was married to Miss Elizabeth Van Hook, who wa^ also born in West Moreland county, Pennsylvania. Their children are : Malisa, now Mrs. J. H. Lozier, of Cleveland, Ohio ; C. C. Thomas, of Evansville, Indiana ; E. R. Thomas, at present in the bicycle manufacturing business at Toronto, Ontario, Canada; O. F. Thomas , and L. B. Thomas, both now in Cleveland, Ohio ; and F. W. Thomas, in the railroad business in Memphis, Tennessee. J. B. Thomas enlisted in a Pennsylvania regiment and served in the Mexican war. He was a man of fine business perception and great activity, and while engrossed with heavy, pressing business duties, he never forgot the qualities that make a gentleman, in the best sense of that word. He was always an engaging man, gentle to his family and kind to all. He was a most thorough man in all his undertakings, and omitted no honorable opportunity that would contribute to success.

All his life he had been a useful, successful man, and his death was a source of great regret.

C. C. Thomas, his son, became the successor of his father in the coal business. He has had charge of the First avenue mines ever since his father's death. He is an enterprising, industrious man, always having an eye to business.

F. H. RAGON.

No citizen of Evansville was more endeared to the business public, or had Won a more enduring and deserved reputation for honest business methods and fair dealing and prime manhood than Mr. Ferdinand H. Ragon, a brief sketch of whose life is presented in this connection.

No pen can be too sympathetic or too heroic to picture the man in the fullness he deserves or in the true, pure character he lived. His instincts, in the first place, were right and had been rightly trained. His full and conscious knowledge of humanity always led him to act justly and kindly toward every one. His broad, liberal spirit — so endowed by nature — considered men and their acts from the high standpoint of charity and forgiveness. His whole life was exemplary, as this all-too-brief' biography will reveal.

Mr. Ragon's native town was Russellville, Kentucky, and the year of his nativity was 1826. There he received such education as country towns then afforded, and laid the basis, at least in some degree, for his subsequent successful business career. When quite a young man, indeed in his eighteenth year, he started out to discover what life had in store for him. Correct always in his habits and wants, the talent and services of such a young man did not wait long for recognition or employment. At Cadiz, Trigg county, Ky., he found employment as clerk in the general mercantile store of Abner R. Terry. On the death of Mr. Terry four years later, Mr. Ragon, by economy and thrift, had accumulated enough money to go into the general mercantile business for himself. This venture was made in 1848, and he continued in it there till 1864. Fickle fortune never frowned upon him very long at a time, and these sixteen years of business for himself in Cadiz brought him neat and satisfactory returns. He felt the need of a larger field for business, and he came to Evansville in 1864, in war times, when prices were fluctuating in the business thermometer among the hundreds, so to speak. In this new field he entered into the wholesale grocery business. Here in Evansville, on entering the wholesale grocery business, he associated with himself Mr. Ebe- nezer Dickey under the firm name of Ragon & Dickey. Four years afterward — that was in 1868 — Capt. F. P. Carson took an interest in the firm, which now took the firm name of Ragon, Dickey & Carson.

The latter gentleman disposed of his interest to Mr. E. G. Ragon, brother of Mr. F. H. Ragon, and retired in 1870. The firm name was then changed to Ragon, Dickey & Ragon. Three years afterward Mr. Dickey disposed of his interest to the two brothers and withdrew, from which time on the business was conducted under the firm name of Ragon Brothers. They builded up a large trade in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Tennessee. Their punctuality, reliability and great desire to please those who dealt with them won for them not only an enviable place in business circles, but a splendid reputation for honesty and fair dealing. An eye always to business, they came at length to read the market fluctuations almost with prophetic insight and gave their customers the benefit of this superior skill. Of course, such great application to business must needs bring success. In their particular class of business they were regarded as representative men, as commercial leaders, as setting the business pace. Said the Evausville Courier at the time of Mr. F. H. Ragon's death : ''The deceased, the founder of the establishment, was a man of extraordinarily clear business qualifications, shrewdness and commercial tact possessed by few in Evansville."

So much for the life of this man in the "busy mart of trade." No one can be a successful business man without the requisite capital of geniality and kindness. Mr. F. H. Ragon possessed these happy qualities in a remarkable degree, and made it a rule of life to make no enemies if it could be avoided. As a result of such a high and beautiful course in life his friends were all who knew him. The inflexible realities of business had not hardened his nature and rendered him stony and unapproachable, but superior to such crystalizing influences, he seemed to grow only the more cordial and entertaining, like one smiling at the indurate hand of baffled fate. In his social family relations he was greatly beloved, and his home was one of the happiest.

He was married twice. He was the father of three children by his first wife, whose death occurred in 1867. These children are Daniel S., Mallie (Mrs. Rosser S. Rock) and Addie (Mrs. T. M. Carothers.) He was married again in 1869, and to-him was born out of this union a son named Claude.

As a Christian Mr. Ragon respected and revered the profound teachings of the Bible. His great practical good sense would not allow him to entertain flimsy views leading away from the well-known truth of the "man of his counsel." Long years before, when a citizen of Cadiz, he united with the Baptist church, in which denomination he always retained his churchly relationship. However, being a warm friend of Rev. Dr. Martin, of Grace Presbyterian church— of which his wife was a member — he became a regular attendant on the services there in the latter part of his life. His religious convictions were deep and abiding.

After the death of Mr. F. H. Ragon the business was continued by E. G. Ragon and Daniel S. Ragon, son of the deceased. Mr. E. G. llagon was born at Russellville, Ky., iu , and when a young man went to Cadiz, Ky., and entered into business with his brother. There he prospered. He married Miss Sallie McKinney,of that town. He came to Evansville in 1869, and as previously stated, engaged in the wholesale grocery business with his brother. From that time on it was no longer a question of business prosperity, but a question of enlarging the volume of trade and extending the territory of their transactions.

When the mantle of business fell on the shoulders of Mr. E. G. Ragou and nephew, it was pushed on with the same old nerve and vigor, and prosperity and satisfactory dividends were theirs. Daniel S. Ragon was born at Cadiz, Ky., in 1857, and removed to Evansville with his father in 1864. His schooling was secured in the public schools of this city. In one capacity or another he has been connected with the firm of Ragon Brothers ever since the adoption of that name. He married Miss Eva Johnson, December, 1878.

As a concluding word it may be added that no wholesale grocery house in the city is more careful in filling and shipping its orders promptly, or carries on a larger volume of business than the firm of Ragon Brothers. It is a cardinal business principle with them to please their customers, and therefore they never loose trade they have once secured.

THE SHANKLIN FAMILY.

A merchant's life usually is without positive incident. A mercantile career, however, is an expression of the force of character and intellect in him. It requires talent to succeed, and John Shanklin was a prosperous merchant.

His life began near Derry, Donegal county, Ireland, on February 17, 1795. His father before him perished in the Irish rebellion in 1798. The son, named after his father, obtained the fragmentary education of an Irish farmer boy. When thirteen years old he was apprenticed in a general store in Donegal. After five years in the store, when eighteen, he sailed for the United States, and in New York entered a wholesale hardware establishment. Three years afterward he became a salesman for a hardware dealer at Frankfort, Ky. The accidental loss of a foot at this time necessitated his adoption of the profession of a school teacher, which he followed for three years, most of the time at Shelbyville (Ky.) and vicinity. He then entered the auction store of Ormsby, at Louisville, as a clerk, and in a short time young Shanklin was placed as manager of a branch house at Newcastle, Ky. On the failure of Ormsby, the young man purchased a stock of goods at Shelbyville, and one Moffatt was his partner. In six months they removed to Evansville — December 3, 1823. But their stock of dry goods was too large for the new location, and Moffatt took a half and located at Cynthiana, Ind., while Shanklin continued in business here with the other half. Their partnership was dissolved in 1827, and Shanklin continued the business alone till 1832 ; then to 1837 as Shanklin & Co.; then under other firm styles, until he retired from business on January 1, 1872. His accounts on earth closed January 11, 1877. He was an active, leading member of Walnut Street Presbyterian church. He was a man of scrupulous integrity, valuing his honor and credit above earthly estimate, and reflecting moral principles in his daily life.

This is the first early ancestor of five generations who have lived in this city up to the present moment. Edith Wilson — nee Bradford — the seventh generation from William Bradford, who came over in the historic Mayflower, was the grandmother of John Shanklin's children; Major Bezaleel Howe, of Revolutionary fame, was their great grand- uncle ; their mother was Philura Fillmore French. The names of these children are James Maynard Shanklin, Malvina French Shanklin, John Gilbert Shanklin, George William Shanklin, and Osborne Henry Shanklin.

James Maynard Shauklin in early life disclosed marked mental acumen. The law 'was his profession, and at the time Fort Sumter was fired upon he was prosecuting attorney of the circuit court. When the news of the bombardment reached Evansville, it aroused the people and temporarily suspended business. The patriotic young prosecutor, pale and excited, in his tragic style, addressed the grand jury in these words : " There is no more business for the grand jury to-day, and with the consent of the court, Judge Parrett, I feel it my duty to request that the grand jury and the court adjourn. At this moment matters of grave importance await every patriot. Fort Sumter has been fired upon, the flag dishonored, and all loyal eyes and hearts are turned in that direction. I, for one. shall enter the conflict in defense of my country's flag." And his army record is a brilliant one. As lieutenant-colonel of the 42d Indiana volunteer infantry, he took part in the battles of Wartrace, Perryville and Stone River. He was wounded at Perryville, an exploding shell tearing away part of the scalp. The wound was dressed, he returned to the fight. He commanded his regiment at Stone River, and was captured while leading a forlorn hope in the last day of the battle. After confinement in prison at Atlanta and Libby — five months in the latter place and two in the former — he was exchanged. After his return home from the war, he died suddenly of acute laryngitis He left a widow and son but two years old, who is now a member of the firm of Shanklin & King, brokers and real estate agents, Chicago' Malvina French Shanklin married John Marshal Harlan, now a justice of the supreme court of the United States, appointed by President Hayes. The date of her marriage was December 23, 1856.

Their children and grand children were : Edith Shanklin Harlan, who became the wife of Frank Linus Child, of Worcester, Massachusetts. She died leaving a daughter Edith Harlan Child, who lives with her grandparents, Justice and Mrs. Harlan. Rev. Richard Davenport Harlan, of Rochester, New York, married Margaret Prouty, of Geneva, New York. James Shanklin Harlan is an unmarried lawyer of Chicago. John Maynard Harlan is a lawyer also of Chicago, and he married Miss Elizabeth Flagg, of Yonkers, New York. They have one daughter, Elizabeth, five years old.

John Gilbert Shanklin was educated at Kenyon college, Gambier, Ohio, and afterwards took a course at the university of Berlin, Germany. He was elected secretary of the state of Indiana in 1878, and served from 1879 to 1881. He was defeated for re-election- in 1880. This is the only public office he has ever held. At present he is the owner and editor of the Courier, and his editorials show critical analysis and broad reading. They have the polish and tone of a close student of the humanities, and are widely quoted for their profound penetration into obstruse economical questions. Every editorial shows ripe scholarship and skillful thinking. He married Miss Gertrude Arms Avery, and they have two children, Susanna Avery Shanklin and Malvina Harlan Shanklin.

George William Shanklin was the fourth child of John and Philura Fillmore Shanklin. He was always associated with his brother, John Gilbert, in the business of the Courier. He bought the Courier in 1866, soon after it was established. John Gilbert was then in Europe, traveling and attending the Berlin university. He returned in 1868, and the brothers sold, in 1869, to Messrs. Lauenstein. But in 1874 they repurchased the plant, since which time they have controlled it. George William died a bachelor in Washington City, D. C., February 6, 1897. His remains were cremated and the ashes scattered on the graves of his parents in this city.

Osborne Henry Shanklin died at a little over the age of four years

WILLIAM REILLY.

i William Reilly, born in Drutnmond, county Armagh, Ireland, August 12, 1813, came to America in 1838, and he came directly to Evansville. He entered the postoffice as a clerk under F. E. Goodsell, which position he filled until the year 1840, when he opened a wholesale and retail grocery on the corner of Main and Second streets, having formed a partnership with his cousin, James Reilly, under the firm name of "J. & W. Reilly." This business was carried on successfully for several years, until the death of James Reilly in 1854, after which William Reilly engaged in the commission business until his death in 1872. Mr. Reilly married Mary French Willson, who survived him many years, her death having occurred little more than a year ago.

Their children were : Mary Osborne, who died in infancy ; Edith Howe ; John Shanklin, and Anna Hazelton.

Mr. Reilly was a man of quiet and unostentatious manner, simple habits and large intelligence. He was a member of Trinity M. E- church, and his daily walk and conversation was that of a thoroughly honest and honorable man. No higher encomium can be written upon any man's life. It is the one attribute of humanity that lifts mankind to heaven.

THE EDMOND FAMILY.

One of the most enterprising and prosperous original families of this county was the Edmond family. George Edmond, the father of numerous race, came from Germany and settled in Somerset county Pennsylvania, and about 1808 settled in Muhlenburgh county, Ky.

The family came to Evansville in 1815. There were five sons and two daughters born to George Edmond, as follows: John, Thomas, George, William, Michael, Ann and Elizabeth. Michael was the only son born in Evansville. John was born in 1800. Frank was a son , by a second wife.

When the family came to Evansville in 1815 they probably came in a flatboat, on which was a house in which they lived. They settled at a a point five miles below Evansville, at what has all along since been known as the John Edmond homestead. John Edmond, being the oldest of the family, soon began life for himself, and he made a prosperous career of it. He was among the first who established a wood- yard and regularly furnished wood to steamboats. As soon as the wood was cleared from the land and sold he cultivated the virgin soil and it yielded abundantly. The primitive crop of trees was converted into money and the crop from the rich alluvial soil yielded a satisfactory profit. He secured in time about 1,800 acres of fine land. The competition then, before the days when coal was known and used, was active and sharp, and barges were laden with wood and towed about to intercept steamboats and supply them before they reached Edmond's woodyard. He pushed his business, and in the cud became a wealthy man. He married Miss Talitha Sirkles, and to them two children were born. The son died in infancy. Susan was born May 9, 1826, in Vanderburgh county, Ind., and was married to Alexander Maddux February 14, 1850. Mrs. Talitha (Sirkles) Edmond died April 13, 1858. And John Edmond married a second time, and Miss Sophia Burgdorf became his wife on September 20, 1859. To them were born six children. The living ones are John, Mrs. Augusta Kamp and Mrs. Ollie Varuer. After a long, active and useful life John Edmond, Sr., died October 10, 1876.

It is told with a good deal of amusement yet to-day by members of the family about the first piano he purchased for his family. He was a man very particular in his family comforts, and would not be behind in any of the conveniences possessed by his neighbors. Word came to the family that Mrs. Shanklin had one of the finest pianos that was made. Mr. Edmond always found great delight in music, and having a daughter who loved the charm of musical expression and harmony he ordered a very fine piano for his home. When the beautiful instrument reached Evansville, Mr. Edmond took a woodboat loaded with wood to Evansville and disposed of it and then took the piano back home on the woodboat. It served on the way home as a polished seat for the boat hands. One time during high water, the piano was put on stilts, as it were, to keep it out of the water in the room. The chickens collected from trees and other things above water, were put in the same room to keep them from drowning. The piano was well covered, but that did not keep the chickens from roosting on it. The " gunnels" or plank walks on stilts, were common things in that day, from the door step to the outer gate, which were used to walk upon out of the water. It may be said the piano stood upon a "gunnel" at the time of the incident mentioned.

After his second marriage he took the world easier, and attended to the happiness of those around him with seeming delight. About 1851 he turned the woodyard over to his son-in-law, Mr. Alexander Maddux, who had married his only daughter and only living child by his first wife. The son-in-law lived just below him, and he successfully operated the business for many years. He moved to Evansvillc in March, 1863, and the wood business went into other hands.

As to the character of John Edmond — He was strictly honorable, upright and righteous in all things, a man whose word was as good as his bond, a man whose principles were as invariable as the hills, a man who was beloved for his merits and for his truly exemplary life. He was a consistant and faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and had been for many years previous to his death.

In the onsweeping changes of time the family of Edmond became scattered, and all the children of the grandfather, George, are dead except Michael, the youngest. Those of the descendants who are now living in this city are Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Maddux. Mr. Maddux was born in Meade county, Ky., May 7, 1820. His father, Thomas Maddux, was a native of Green Brier county, Virginia.

When 14 years old he came to Perry county, Indiana, where his stepmother died shortly afterward. Following closely upon this sad event the bereaved husband went to Cloverport, Kentucky, with his family, where he died about a year later. Then Alexander Maddux farmed in Perry county, Indiana, for a year or two after his father's death.

In 1845-6 he taught school in Clay county, Missouri, and afterward attended school at Hardinsburg, Kentucky. He clerked at Stevens- port, Kentucky, for a year and traveled for Dr. James Graves, of Louisville, for three years. His career as a son-in-law of John Edmond in the wood business has been previously told. Since coming to the city he has been served as a justice of the peace and one term as a member of the board of county commissioners.

He is a member of the Baptist church and of the Odd Fellows. The only child of Mr. and Mrs. Maddux was Talitha J. She was married to John J. Brose, by whom she is the mother of two lovely, bright daughters, Susie B. and Effie M. After the death of Mr. Brose on July 1, 1878, the wife was married to Dr. J. D. Fillinger, October 10, 1894. Dr. Fillinger came to Evansville seventeen years ago and began the practice of his profession as a dentist, and he has been successful and prosperous.

After Mr. Maddux came to Evansville, William Brown, who had married Dorcas, the sister of Alexander Maddux, also came to Evansville.

Mr. Brown arrived here in 1 852, on the steamer "Georgetown" from Hardinsburg, Breckinridge county, Kentucky. Mr. Brown was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and many of the houses built by his hands are still standing in this city. He died past middle age, loved, honored and respected, on October 20, 1876. He was born June 8, 1807. His wife was born December 11, 1812, and died February 14, 1880. Thomas Brown, a son, died January 25, 1873; Wm. Fletcher, another son, died February 15, 1864 ; Mattie, 8 years old, and Crit- tcnden, 5 years old, both died in 1855; Horace B., born June 17, 1839, died January 10, 1888. Mrs. Richard W. Snider, a daughter, died July 5, 1876. Mrs. John Martin, another daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brown, died October, 1877. Mary E. Brown was born December 4, 1841, and was married to W. W. Myers, who died in 1884, at the age of 51 years. Miss Sue Brown was born April 10, 1843, and married John Payne, and to-day they are living in California. Miss Lucy E. Brown was born June 7, 1852, and was married to E. D. Wallace. She and her husband are at present living in this city.

All the members of this numerous family led useful, worthy and progressive lives, and were people of strict principles and high moral precepts.

BEN STINSON.

Ben Stinson is the son of John B. Stinson, who was born in Virginia, March 1, 1787, of English parents. He located in Kentucky, and in 1809 moved to Indiana territory and built a log house at the foot of coal mine hill, at the bend of the river, just below the site of Evausville. That was in the days when the copper-colored Indians still infested the country, and made life a dangerous affair, especially on the north side of the Ohio river. Benoni Stinson, a brother of John B., afterwards moved to this part of Indiana. He was an eloquent Free Will Baptist preacher, whose labors extended over Vanderburgh, Posey, Gibson, Pike and Warrick counties in Indiana, and three or four adjacent cpunties in Kentucky.

Sometimes John B. Stinson preached in the absence of his brother. He possessed less "religious power," but was noted for his good, hurd, native sense." The records of Vanderbnrgh county show that in 1818 Governor Jonathan Jennings appointed John B. Stinson as sheriff, being the first official of that character in the new county. He was elected probate judge, and held the position one term. He decided the most celebrated habeas-corpus case that ever came up in the county — the jurisdiction of a minor child between mother and church. He was a leader in church matters, and especially in all the "yearly associations." He, and his brother Benoni, and Rev. Jesse Lane, brother of Governor Lane, united with Amos Clark, James G. Jones, and Win. T. T. Jones, in signing a circular in the George H. Proffit and Robert Dale Owen congressional race, which defeated Owen.

The three reverend gentlemen signed the political document as " ministers ot the Free Will Baptists." For this act John B. Stinson ever after felt ashamed of himself. He died at the old home on the river below Evansville, March 15, 1850. His wife, Matilda, died at the home of her son Ben, in Evansville, July 4, 1864, aged seventy- four years and nine months.

Ben — a contraction of Benoni, and as he always writes it himself — was born in Perry township, Vanderburgh county, Indiana, July 23, 1823, on his father's forty -acre farm at the foot of what is called " Baby-town hill," in a one-story, unhewed log house, standing within a few yards of what ,was then called " Rattlesnake spring." Often some member of the family would have to drive away the snakes before water could be obtained to cook breakfast. The first school Ben Stinson attended was taught by Miss Ann Rolin, in the upper part of the town. His second teacher was Jefferson Ham, the father of Mrs. McCutchan, who was a teacher herself in the public schools of Evansville.

At the age of seven years his father's family moved to the farm, where the L. & N. railroad shops now stand, adjoining Howell, and there his schooling was secured in "subscription schools." Later he attended the school of Alauson Chute, in Evansville. He also attended C. S. Weaver's "high school." This was the extent of his schooling. He then took up the study of law in the office of Lock- hart & Jones, and at length was graduated from the Cincinnati law college. When S. T. Jenkins, clerk of the Vanderburgh circuit court, died, Alvin P. Hovey, judge of the court, appointed Ben Stinson to the vacancy, returning a favor for a favor. Mr. Stinson had practically nominated Judge Lockhart to congress, thus occasioning his resignation as judge of the circuit court, and the appointment of Hovey to the place by Governor Joseph Wright. President Pierce appointed Ben Stinson postmaster at Evansville, and while serving in this position Judge Blackford, one of the judges of the court of claims, had him appointed one of the commissioners of this new court. Conrad Baker was the other commissioner. When a justice of the peace he was appointed a commissioner under the fugitive slave law. The single case that came before him was disposed of by remanding the fugitives, an old man and his wife, back to their " lawful master." He resigned a short time afterwards, for the reason, as he said, " I was afraid of Chase, the secretary of the treasury." Afterwards he declined the appointment as commissioner of the United States court, a position now held by Captain J. W. Wartmann. During the great Kansas- Nebraska discussion and the trouble in Kansas over the two opposing constitutions, Mr. Stinson was elected to the state legislature as representative, where he manifested his singular power in persuading men to his opinions and leading them to vote on measures as he suggested.

After his return from the legislature he was elected a justice of the peace, a position he held over sixteen years. His first wife was Mary E. Banks, of Lewistown, Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of Hon. Ephraim Banks, auditor-general of Pennsylvania. To them were born two children. She lies in Oak Hill cemetery, near Evansville.

His second wife was Caroline C. Cox, of Orange county, Indiana, who bore him three children, all living in Paoli,» Indiana.

A man of great activity and push, he is not without an experience in the newspaper field. He purchased the printing office of Young- love & Sullivan, and continued the daily paper they had been publishing.

Mr. Stinson writes of that venture in these humorous words: " My name stood at the head of the paper as editor and publisher, but really Mr. Hutchins, the foreman, was manager and editor. Horace Plummer, a young lawyer, sent in paragraphs almost daily." Mr. Stinson's " Gentleman in Black " was a surprising success to himself, the papers selling as high as twenty-five cents each. He sold the paper to C. K. Drew, Sr., and he sold it to a Mr. Baker. In time Mr. Stinson took the office back to indemnify himself against loss.

The paper was suspended, and the printing material was nailed up.

Rev. Mr. Vaux, an Episcopal minister, printer and school teacher, opened a job office and used the material for a time. It was at last sold to Smith Gavitt, who in connection with a friend, started another daily. But Mr. Stinson was still not entirely free from all newspaper connections. At this time John B. Hall established the Enquirer, Charles Denby writing the editorials. Willard & Whitehead got hold of the plant, and Mr. Stinson in someway became surety on their notes, which went into court, where he was released from the payment of the same. A joint stock company received the Enquirer, purchasing Emil Bishop's paper entitled "Reform," and merging the two papers into one. Richard Raleigh, John A. Reitz, Ben Nurre, John Gavisk, Judge Parrett and others cashed their stock subscriptions and put the venture on a firm basis. They obtained Robert Spraul as their editor. Mr. Stinson was again induced to go into the newspaper field, and this time he went into the Enquirer office as business manager. He remained, however, only about seven months. When Maynard and Captain Archer bought the concern, Mr. Stinson also disposed of his interest in it. It was a failing enterprise someway, and Maynard & Archer went under.

About 1871 Mr. Stinson went to Orange county, where his ceaseless activity soon made him a leading citizen. He filled several county offices there in a very creditable manner to himself and a most satisfactory way to his friends and neighbors. He is at present living in Paoli, Indiana, where he and his good wife are enjoying the riches of sweet mutual confidences. For many years, ever since his term in the legislature, in fact, Mr. Stinson has been a great sufferer from rheumatism. It has been so severe and torturing as to render his lower extremities entirely useless. But he is a patient sufferer and a firm believer in the providences of an allwise God. He never belonged to any church, nor to any secret or open society. And yet he has led a moral life, trusting in the God of all life and being.

MAJOR JOSEPH B. COX.

HON. CHARLES DENBY

WILLIAM HEILMAN.

One of Evansville's most respected aud honored citizens was William Heilman. His commercial and public career made him known to everybody. He was born in Bermersheim, Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, on October 11, 1824. His father, Valentine Heilman, was a farmer, and died in 1826, when William was but a child.

The widowed mother married Peter Weintz. William labored on the farm aud also attended the school of his native village. This embraced the extent of his education at school, but he was an observant man all his life and his schooling went on continually. In 1843 the family emigrated to the New World and lauded first at New Orleans. Then they came up the river to St. Louis, and soon after located in Posey county, Indiana, where Mr. Weintz pursued the occupation of a farmer. Here young William labored, but the business was distasteful to him. Four years afterward — that is, in 1847 — he engaged in the foundry business in Evansville with his brother-in-law, Christian Kratz. Their small machine shop on Pine street, was at first run by two blind horses. Three years later their log shop was displaced by a brick one, and the horses relieved by steam power. Their first work was dog-irons, cast plows, stoves, etc. In 1854 they constructed their first portable engine, and in 1859 their first thresher. The emergencies of rebellion greatly enhanced their business, and they could scarcely fill their orders, notwithstanding the enlarged capacity of their works.

When Mr. Kratz retired in 1864, he received $100,000 for his interest in the concern. Then through Mr. Heilman's untiring energy, the field of trade was enlarged, the City Foundry enlarged so as to cover almost an entire block, and the business made to prosper almost like magic.

When the war for the Union began Mr. Heilman took a very positive ground for the preservation of the country in its entirety, and his faith and convictions never varied. In 1852 he was first elected to the city council, and served in that official capacity several terms well and faithfully. His broad knowledge of things sent him to the state legislature in 1870, and gave him the nomination for congress on the republican ticket in 1872. In the congressional race he reduced his opponent's majority from 2,500 to 112. In 1876 he was elected to the state senate. While in Europe in 1878 he was nominated for congress again, and returned and was elected after a short, spirited canvass.

In congress, as everywhere, Mr. Heilman exhibited his sterling good practical sense. His speech on the Warner coinage bill in 1879, just after the resumption measure had begun, shows his wisdom. He said: "I am strongly in favor of well considered, practical legislation to benefit the agricultural and manufacturing interests, to increase our commerce and wealth, but by all means let us have some stability in our financial legislation. The condition of the country is at last surely, although perhaps slowly, getting better, and what commerce and finance need just now more than anything else is to be let alone." This measure would have enriched the silver bullion owners to the amount of fifteen cents on the dollar at the expense of the people.

In congress his keen practical foresight placed him in the category of the best business legislators. In business affairs he was an originator of plants upon a large scale. His enterprise brought commercial prosperity to Evansville. His wide grasp of affairs made him a director of the state bank of Indiana, and also of its successor, the Evansville national bank, as well as director of the horse railway company, president of the gas company, and leader in many other useful enterprises.

His energy and capacity in financial investment made him the principal owner in the cotton mills. He was a man of remarkable capacity for business, and great executive powers. Therefore success always attended him. He always was the friend and supporter of everything good for Evansville. His gifts to the poor were many and constant, his benevolence toward every good work was a matter of general remark, his large-hearted acts toward enterprises making for the good of his fellow-creatures were but in evidence of the greatness of his warm heart, his liberal gifts to all benevolent institutions were almost of a lavish character, and his generosity never was appealed to in vain- It need scarcely be said here that Mr. Heilman was a self-made man. His mental capacities were exhibited in the broad sweep he took of business and the success he attained in matters of trade. Not to seem to be grasping round for fine phrases to apply to him, it may be added truthfully that he was eminently "faber suae fortunae" as the trite Latin phrase has it. His pathway to success is plain, and is worthy of being followed by young men setting out in a long business career. For one thing Mr. Heilman was an indefatigable worker and punctual in all things.

In 1848 he was married to Mary Jenner, who came from Germany to this country when she was nine years old. Nine children were born to them. George P. and William A. are prominent business men here at this time. From the organization of the St. John's Evangelical church in 1851, Mr. Heilman wns a consistent member.

His death occurred September 22, 1890, and it threw a pall over the city. His multitude of friends felt the loss as a sort of public calamity, and thus wound up the useful career of one of Evausville's best and most respected citizens.

JOHN A. REITZ.

One of the most enterprising and public-spirited men of Evansville was John August Reitz, and he is most deserving of the recognition given him by this memoir. He was born in Dorlar, Prussia, on the 17th day of December, 1815, and died in Evansville on the 13th day of May, 1891.

It is an evidence of his fearless and enterprising spirit that he was the first person to leave his own country, in Germany, and traverse the wide seas to the inviting New World. He bade his friends and his country adieu in 1836, and arrived in Evansville in December of the same year. From the time he left school, at which he received a fair and liberal German education, at the age of fifteen years, until he left his home for the United States, at the age of twenty-one, he supervised his father's farm, which consisted of about 600 acres; and he also superintended his father's distillery, his flouring mill and general store thereon. From seventy-five to eighty persons were employed to cultivate the land and take care of the stock, which consisted of 100 to 125 horses, 150 to 200 head of cattle, and 500 to 600 sheep. When he came to America, he traveled to various sections, seeking a location wherein to cast his lot. When he began his career in Evansville, it was a river village. He had at the time but one gold piece of money in his pocket. Nothing daunted, however, but on the contrary with a firm determination to succeed, and plenty of energy and industry to back it, he began working for others in the manufacture of lumber, but was engaged mostly with Lloyd Olmstead, on Pigeon creek, on the Stringtown road, and with Judge Silas Stephens, on the bank of the Ohio river, at the foot of Chandler avenue, until he erected his first sawmill in 1845, against the advice of his best friends, who predicted failure, because that was the bitter experience of all those who had engaged in this business preceding him. Notwithstanding the well-meant advice of his friends, his business prospered, and to-day the third sawmill stands upon the same site, at the mouth of Pigeon creek. The first mill was burned in 1855, ten years after its erection. The second was built in the same year of the loss of the first, and was torn away in 1873 for a third and more modern and improved mill; and * now it is running at its full capacity, and has manufactured more hardwood lumber for ten years — from 1883 to 1893 — than any other one sawmill in the United States. It was operated when the elements permitted twenty-two hours out of twenty-four and six days of the week.

Mr. Reitz continued in the sawmill business uninterrupted from 1845 until his death, and since then the business has been conducted by his sons, making, up to this time, fifty-two years of consecutive operation without any interruption — probably the longest business career of any firm in the state.

Mr. Reitz was a man of broad understanding and usefulness and possessed of a public spirit of enterprise and helpfulness, and therefore his services were required in a public way. He was for many years a member of the board of the town of Lamasco, and president of its board of trustees, until its consolidation with the city of Evans- ville. Afterward for many years he was a member of the city council.

He was a member of the board of directors of the Crescent City bank during its entire existence, and at times was vice president and president.

He was a stockholder and director of the Evansville, Indianapolis and Cleveland Railroad Company, then popularly known as the " Straight Line Railroad," and now as the Evansville and Indianapolis railroad, until its liquidation caused by the panic in 1857. In 1856 he, together with John A. Haney, purchased the foundry and machine shop then known as the "Eggleston Foundry," and continued its operation until 1881, when he sold it. He was one of the organizers of the Evansville, Carmi and Paducah Railroad Company and its president until its consolidation with the St. Louis and Southeastern Railway, now a part of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad system, extending from Evansville to St. Louis. He was one of the organizers and directors of the German National bank of this city, and for many years its vice president, and at the time of his death its president.

He was largely engaged in buying and selling real estate on his own account, and also with the late Willard Carpenter — buying a large number of lots at different times and selling them off to laborers and mechanics seeking a home, on long time and easy payments, often furnishing them means to erect a home on the lot, giving them such time as they wanted and needed to repay him. And in all these transactions, it is to be said to his credit, he never sold one out to indemnify himself.

He was a member of the board of trustees of Evans hall, and was one of the board of erection, and president of the board of trustees of said hall for many years. In 1862 he was elected to the state senate from Vanderburgh and Posey counties, as a> democrat. In that stirring war-time it was no small political victory and no little evidence of popularity to be elected to the senate as a democrat.

In 1887 Mr. Eeitz purchased ground and erected thereon the "Home of the Aged " for the Little Sisters of the Poor. It is a beautiful structure, situated on the Newburgh road. At this home are received and maintained during their natural lives the homeless aged — a most worthy purpose as all must see. No distinction is made, it must be said further, in regard to sex, color, nationality or religious creed — Jew or gentile. He was a member of the first board of trustees that erected Trinity Catholic church on Third street in 1848, and was a continuous member of that board until within a few years of his death.

In 1889 he erected the Sacred Heart church in Independence, on the west side of Pigeon creek, and presented it to the congregation as a house of worship for their sole use and benefit.

While firm in his own convictions of right and wrong, he was most charitably disposed toward others who differed from him. In truth he was liberal and thoroughly American in his attitude toward all other organizations and churches, and extended to them the same toleration he expected in return. He contributed to every church in the city regardless of faith, and was well-known for his liberality.

During his entire business career he was never in debt, never owed a dollar on his own account, that he did not have the cash on hand with which to pay. No prospective profit or business venture would induce him to contract a debt or obligation that he could not pay on demand.

He was a man of great energy and activity, and his powerful will force carried him through many embarrassments and intricacies. It is almost superfluous to add that he possessed great public spirit, and encouraged everything that looked to the general welfare. His distinct characteristic was his great executive ability, and he was therefore a man of few words His business activity and deep comprehension of commercial affairs are manifest in the success of every enterprise he took hold of.

He was ever ready to help any one in need and render assistance to the destressed. Often when his judgment would tell him he was aiding at his own cost, both mentally and pecuniarily, he followed the dictates of his sympathies and his sense of benevolence and gave to those appealing for help.

In this city in 1839 he and Miss Gertrude PVisse were married. She servived him only a few 'years. He was domestic in his tastes, and never happier than when at home surrounded by his family. The names of his children, in the order in which they were born, are as given here: Francis J. Reitz, Julia, (Mrs. John A. Haney), Mary, ( Mrs. Herman Fendrich), John A. Jr., Miss Christine, Miss Josephine, Miss Wilhelmine, Miss Matilda, Edward C. and Miss Louise. All are living except the last two.

John A. Reit/, the father of this family, always enjoyed good health until his last illness. He was always 'a consistent and practical member of the Roman Catholic church, both in faith and works. When the race of life was completed for him, when the goal had been won, he passed to his final rest with the easy and trustful conscience of one retiring to sleep.

FREDERICK LAUENSTEIN.

A history of Evansville and Vanderburgh county would not be complete without biographical sketches of the newspaper publishers, who have done so much to build up the city and help make history.

The German press is particularly worthy of good words. Ever since its establishment it has been a power in bringing to the city some of those who are now its very best people, so that at present the German element forms considerably over half of the total population. This proves conclusively that the German press has done its full duty in giving information about Evausville to the Fatherland.

Mr. Frederick Lauenstein, the proprietor and publisher of the Demokrat, which has been since its establishment the leading German paper here, is the subject of this sketch. He is now one of the old citizens, having resided here for thirty-one years. He was born in Hanover, Germany, September 10, 1844. After attending the leading schools in his native country, where he secured a good education, he came to the United States in 1866. His first stopping place was Cincinnati, Ohio, where he resided for only a few months, after which -he came direct to Evansville, and went to work for the Demokrat. He remained in its employ as a traveler for one year, and on March I6w> 1867, he and his brother, Dr. Charles Lauenstein, purchased the paper- In April, 1869, Mr. Frederick Lauenstein bought the Evansville Courier and conducted it in connection with the Demokrat, thus owning two papers, both daily, one German and one English. By economy and enterprise they rapily placed the Courier on a paying basis. but in 1872, having received a good offer for it they sold it to Mr-'5' D. Terry and devoted their combined abilities to the publication of tne Demokrat. In 1872 Dr. Charles Lauenstein sold his interest in the Demokrat to his brother, Frederick, and returned to Germany, where he remained for three years, after which time he returned and bought back his interest In 1879 he died, and Mr. Frederick Lauenstein has since owned and controlled the paper with the exception of one year when Messrs. H. Schiller and H. Dietermann had an interest. This was from 18.83 to 1884. Mr. Lauenstein is descended from the best of old German stock traced back to 1550, when the Lauensteins were merchants of Peine, Hanover.

Mr. Frederick Lauenstein's father was Wilhelm Lauenstein, who lived on a plantation in Griessen, Hanover, after a term of service as a lieutenant in the Hanoverian army. He was a volunteer and fought at Waterloo in 1815. He lived happily on the plantation, married a wife, who was a native of Helpensen, in the same province, and raised a family of nine children, six boys and three girls. The mother died at the age of 66 and the father at that of 71. Young Frederick attended the schools of his native province until he was 21 years old, when he came to America, as has been stated in the first part of this article.. Mr. Lauenstein has held the very best position as a citizen every since his arrival in Evansville. In 1871 he married Mi.ss Constance Schiller and has had four children, two daughters and one son still living. He ran for state senator on the democratic ticket in 1892 and was defeated by only 40 votes. He was a delegate in 1884 from the first district of Indiana to the National democratic convention at Chicago, that nominated Mr. Cleveland. He has just been appointed a member of the board of education of this city, by Mayor Akin, and is particularly qualified to hold this position with credit to himself and benefit to the interests of the schools.

In 1878 he purchased a handsome residence in Washington avenue where he still resides, having added improvements from year rto year as required by his increasing family. His son is now finishing his education at the Indiana state university. The Demokrat has never wavered from the true democratic faith and has always been a power in politics in Evansville. Its circulation and influence have been greatly increased during the last few years, so that at this time ( 1897) it is second to none in the state of Indiana. All of this is due to the excellent judgment, untiring industry and great ability of Mr. Frederick Lauenstein. In 1892 he purchased the present location of the Demokrat, a handsome and substantial building at 403 Main street. His personal appearance is very fine, being large and .well proportioned, over six feet in height, dignified, agreeable, hospitable and benevolent, and with all, the most successful newspaper publisher in Evansvillc.

THE BABCOCK FAMILY.

Oliver Babcock and Anna Hearth, his wife, lived in Utica, N. Y., and to them were born eight children, four sons and four daughters. The sons were Edward, Charles, Elisha Spurr and Henry O. The daughters were Emily, Elizabeth, Ann and Mary. Elisha Spurr, Charles, Henry O., Emily, (Mrs. Peter Sharpe) and Elizabeth, (Mrs. John Hoff) were long residents of Evansville, and well known. Edward lived in Troy, N. Y., and Anna, (Mrs. C. H. Edgar) dwelt at Easton, Pa. The only one of this family of brothers and sisters now living is Mary, and her home is in Detroit, Mich. Her husband's name is William H. Edgar, of Detroit. They resided in Evansvillc at one time, and then Mr. Edgar was in partnership with the Bab- cock Brothers. Elisha Spurr Babcock, Sr., was horn at Utica, N. Y., August 10, 1815. In early life he located at Troy, N. Y., and subsequently in New York city. He- came to Evansville in- 1837, and entered into business with Charles and Henry O. Babcock, under the firm name of Babcock Brothers. They carried on the grocery business, coupled with hardware and saddlery. Elisha Spurr managed the grocery department, and when the firm dissolved he retained this department for his share of the business, and continued it for a number of years. In time, however, he met with reverses, and he retired from business for about two years. Then he entered the grain and commission business with his oldest son, Oliver. He continued this business up to the time of his departure for California.

He married Agnes Southerland Davidson, a native of Scotland, in May, 1844. She was a very estimable lady. The result of this union was eight children, as follows : Oliver, Louisa, Elisha Spurr, Jr., William D., Edgar, Frank, Amelia and John. Elisha Spurr, Jr., and William D. are the only survivors of their children. Oliver married Mary Gibson Hodge, a native of Kentucky, in 1872, and left two children at his death, namely, Agnes Southerland and Mary Dixon Babcock, both now residing with their mother at Los Angeles, Cal.

Elisha Spurr Babcock, Jr., married Isabella Graham, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio. They have two children surviving — Arnold and Graham Babcock. Botli of these sons are married, but have no children.

Both assist their father in his vast business, and have also large inde- dendent interests of their own. William B. Babcock married Harriet Mclntyre in 1893, but has no issue. His residence is at Los Angeles. He is a physician of large practice, making a specialty of the eye and ear.

Elisha Spurr Babcock, Sr., closed up his business in Evansville, and moved to San Diego, Cal., in 1887, where he assisted in the vast business of the Coronado Beach company. His son, E. S. Babcock, Jr., is president and chief stock-holder in this enterprise. The father died of senile gangrene in 1890. Elisha Spurr Babcock, Jr , is one of the most remarkable business men of his day. It would require a volume to record the many enterprises he has carried to a successful completion. After graduating from the high school of Evansville, he entered the service of the E. & T. H. railroad company, commencing as a freight clerk at the Evansville depot, and working himself up to the position of general freight' agent of the road. He left the railroad service to engage in developing the Bell telephone company, which controlled a large territory, extending from Evansville to New Orleans, having at the same time the sole ownership of the Eugene ice company, with some five large houses and a number of agencies, and being a partner in the firm of E. S. Babcock & Son. Since the death of Oliver Babcock, his success marked him a man of distinctive mental character, a man of vast resources in large commercial transactions.

In 1885 he commenced to close out all these industries with a view of retiring from business. Regaining his health, he began a year later to embark in the large enterprises in California that have since made him known far and wide. He and three associates, in 1885, ; purchased the property known as Coronado Beach, a tract of over 4.000 acres opposite San Diego, being the peninsula that makes the bay of San Diego. They organized the Coronado Beach company, of *••• which Mr. Babcock has always been president and active manager.

They laid out the city of Coronado, sold $2,750,000 worth of property during the boom, built the grand hotel, Del Coronado at a cost of $1,600,000 — a building that is without a peer on this continent. They also built the water works for both Coronado and San Diego, the street railway lines, a railroad twenty-two miles long around the bay of San Diego, an electric light plant, a shipyard and many other enterprises. At the close of the boom Mr. Babcock bought out most of the other stock-holders. John D. Spreckles and A. B. Spreckles, sons of the sugar king, Glaus Spreckles, bought the balance of the stock.

These three rnen became the sole owners of the enterprises developed by Mr. Babcock. Since then he has entered on his wider career, which has made him one of the leading representative men of the Pacific slope. All the great works, looking to the development of San Diego county, Cal., are under his guidance. He is now engaged in the comprehensive development of the water supplies of the San Diego bay region. To show up briefly the result of his work since 1886, we may enumerate the following enterprises, which he has given or developed in the city of San Diego : Its water works, street railway system, electric light plant, a railroad twenty-two miles long and many other public institutions.

The Grand Hotel del Coronado is a thing of his creation, as is also the city of Coronado, with its tree-lined avenues and many beautiful parks, filled with the flowers of the tropics, its electric railway and railroad around the bay, its electric lights and ferry, its pure water and drainage. He has, besides his great interests in the Coronado Beach company, many investments outside. To his energy, grit and pc'rseverence is due all the great projects of which he is at present master. All the great schemes conceived by him have beeu carried to completion, and success has crowned his efforts in all undertakings, whether of public or private interest. He is in full vigor of body and intellect, and evidently has a long career before him.

For one thing among many, Mr. Babcoek never sought public office, and lived free from such an infection. His private and corporate interests are so large that lie has hardly a moment he can call his own. If he wishes to rest, he must leave home and conceal his whereabouts, as early and late at his business offices and in his private room, he is sought after at all hours by parties wishing his help or his information.

In the bay region roundabout San Diego his name is a household word. You cannot walk the streets or enter a public conveyance without hearing his name and his projects discussed. He is very reticent about his business and private affairs, and it would be very hard to make an estimate of the amount of his fortune. The Coronado Beach company has a capital of $3,000,000, and he and John D. Spreckles and A. B. Spreckles are the sole owners. Though this is the largest business matter he is engaged in, it is, however, but one of the many. It is not his fortune so much as his great ability in opening up new sources of wealth to himself and the consequent development of the country that has made him so well known.

The residences of the living members of the family of E. S. Bab- cock, Sr., are as follows: Mrs. E. S. Babcoek, Sr., Mrs. Oliver Babcoek and her two daughters, Agnes and Mary, Dr. W. D. Babcoek and wife — all residents of Los Angeles; E. S. Babcoek, Jr., and wife and Graham Babcoek, his son and wife, at the Hotel del Coronado, Coronado, Cal.; Arnold Babcock, his other son, and wife, also have residence at Coronado and a ranch at Julian, Cal.

Charles Babcock, who for many years was a leading business man of this city, died July 22, 1894, at the advanced age of eighty-two years. He was born December 10, 1812, in Utica, New York. He resided in Troy in the same state until he was twenty-two years old, and then he went south to Mobile, Alabama. For three years he was in business there. In 1839, with the first upward move of Evans- ville he came here, and began an active business career, which he continued the rest of his life. He was a member of the firm of Babcock Brothers, having three separate stores or departments — wholesale- groceries, wholesale hardware and wholesale queensware. They were the first importers of the latter class of goods in this city. On December 15, 1842, he was united in marriage to Miss Amelia Hopkins, who with seven children survive him.

Shortly after his arrival here in 1839, he was called upon to draw up papers to be placed in the corner-stone of old St. Paul's Episcopal church ; and when the new structure of this denomination replaced the old one, a similar request was made of him, and again he cheerfully complied with the pleasing duty. He was vestryman and treasurer of this church for over thirty-five years, and a liberal contributor to all of its needs during his long lifetime.

Henry Oliver Babcock was born July 20, 1822. His grandfather was a Revolutionary officer, and his mother traced her ancestors back to the Mayflower. His father was a legislator of New York at one time. .And Henry Oliver himself was the youngest of eight children.

His parents died before he was nine years old. He was graduated from Brown's university at the age of eighteen, and soon after he went south, spent two years in New Orleans, and then started in business in San Antonio, or near there. Not long afterwards the settlement was burned by the Indians. Losing all his goods in this calamity, he joined the Texas volunteers, was taken prisoner, but after long and tedious marching he managed to escape. Soon after the war was over he returned to New Orleans, and accepted the position of bookkeeper in one of the largest firms in the city. In 1845 he came to Evansville and entered into partnership, with his brothers Charles and Elisha, in the wholesale grocery, hardware and queensware business.

Many of their goods were imported. The business was a continued success, and in 1858 it was divided, each brother taking a different department. Henry took the hardware store, which he gradually changed into the seed and agricultural implement business.

Mr. Babcock was devoted to his business and his family, and was always deeply interested in the affairs of the city and nation. He was married June 8, 1848, to Mary E. Howser. His home was the center in which his love and devotion made perpetual sunshine. His life was full of charity, and his broad views of humanity led him to help others without boasting. He died September 10, 1879, leaving a wife and six children. The names of his children living at the time of Mr. Babcock 's death were . Henry Howser Babcock, Mary Kate Yeatch, Lucy Alice Walker, Morgan Babcock, Howard Leigh Babcock and Guilford Carlisle Babcock.

Henry H. Babcock, the son of Henry O., succeed him in business, and extended the same so that it covered many states. He displayed great business tact and ability in the management of his affairs. He was a man of high character, and had'many'qualities which attracted people to him, and was a man of fine presence. He died in the full flush of business success at the early age of forty-two 'years. He left surviving him his widow — a daughter of Gillison Maghee — many years a resident of Evansville, a son Gillisou and a daughter Mary.

THE GAVITT FAMILY.

In many respecte the several members of the Gavitt family have been remarkable, not more for their patriotic services to their country than for their singularly clear perception. No one but remembers John Smith Gavitt, whose heroic death on the battle-field fired the hearts of all who ever knew him and called forth commendations from General Grant and others.

This brief history of the Gavitts is in no way commensurate with the importance of the characters. It is difficult to trace their lineage beyond the shores of America, so long have they been citizens here.

Indeed they were in at the founding of the republic, and have been among its staunchest supporters ever since. On the Gavitt side they are of Scotch and English extraction. The name seems originally to have been of French origin, and at one time the family spelled it Gavit.

Rev. William Gavitt was a Methodist minister and died at Gran- ville, Ohio, in 1837. Rev. Gavitt seems to have gone from Virginia to Ohio. His son, John Gavitt, was born in 1 788. He married Miss Alice Smith on July 13, 1815. She was born at Fairfax Courthouse, Culpepper county, Virginia, in 1793, and died in this city in August, 1867. They removed from Virginia to Ohio, and then to Louisville, Kentucky. In the short stay there John Gavitt died, February 28, 1832. To them seven children were born. William was born January 21, 1824; John Smith was born March 18, 1826; Miriam married Dr. Isaac Hutchinson and both are now dead. Alice married Captain Joel F. Sherwood, January, 1847, and she is now living here, aged 69 years. Atlanta died at Madison, Indiana, April 27, 1816.

Arillio also died there July 6, 1819. Hannah died at Little Rock, Arkansas. She was married to David Swing, August, 1839.

After the death of the father Mrs. Gavitt took her family to Madison, Indiana, and again changing her habitation came to Evansville in 1840. She was long known here as "grandmother" Gavitt, and died here where her children had grown up, and where she had raised her grandchildren, Smith Gavitt's orphan boys, John, AVilliam and Joe, in August, 1867. It may be said that Mrs. Alice Gavitt felt the hard lines of life in common with all pioneers, and particularly the difficulties that widows experience in rearing a large family in a respectable manner. She was a good Christian mother, and loved her family, and they were devoted to her.

William married Miss Nancy Burns on April 18, 1846, and she died in November, 1846. William was a dashing, fearless young man, and he joined Captain Walkers' company and set out for the Mexican frontier. He was under command of General Joseph Lane, and knew him intimately before he became a soldier in his command. During this service William lost his life in a singular manner. News traveled with a snail's pace in those days, and it was some time before the fact was known to his family, and the particulars of his death are very meagre. It seems that he and a comrade named Walden, the son of a widow who lived in Cincinnati, were detailed to capture and return two deserters. They succeeded in capturing them, and were returning to the post with their prisoners. While encamped in the woods,Walden, whose duty it was to stand guard while Gavitt rested in sleep, also fell asleep. The prisoners, seeing their opportunity, fell upon the two sleeping men and killed them. This tragedy was enacted about October 15, 1848, near Sonora, Mexico. The best evidences now point to this place as the spot of the horrible fatality. As soon as John Smith Gavitt heard the shocking news of his brother's awful death, he quickly packed his grip and without a word to any one, except to his family to tell them not to mourn for him, as the world was too small to hold him and the murderer of his brother, he left. For two years not a word was heard of him. It is known that he pursued the object of his search through every difficulty, neglected no opportunity to find him, even cut down trees to cross streams that he could not swim and kept his ceaseless purpose in view day and night. At last he returned almost as unexpectedly as he had gone away. All he ever revealed of his tireless search for vengeance was that "he was satisfied." It was learned, however, in a half traditional way that he killed the man in a ten pace duel somewhere in California.

John Smith Gavitt was born at Madison, Indiana. For a longtime he was marshal of this city. He was also sheriff of Vanderburgh county, and a faithful administrator of the law, and a terror to evil doers. They both respected and feared him. When the civil war broke over the land with a palsying shock and made all patriotic hearts beat with excited rapidity, he was quick to answer the call to arms. In an eloquent and stirring appeal to his friends to unite with him in defense of his beloved country, he sounded a note of no uncertain character. His stirring words had a powerful influence in those doubtful times and undecided moments, and caused a tide to set in for the defense of the Union. He was major of the 1st Indiana cavalry under Colonel Conrad Baker. At Frederickstown, Missouri, while leading a gallant charge against Brigadier-General Jeff Thompson's forces he fell, pierced by five bullets. His death occurred on October 21, 1861. It was said that he was utterly without fear, and fought with the coolness of one who reckoned it sweet to die for his country. He fell fighting to the last. His body was brought to this city and interred. As a tribute to him the people assembled in one of the largest corteges ever witnessed here. His valiant, triumphant death fired the hearts of the people of Indiana. He was Evansville's famous and favorite character, and his funeral was a historic event in this portion of the state. It cast over all a gloom, and they seemed to go into mourning. He always had a large place in the hearts of his countrymen, and even at this writing his name is cherished and his fame is a proud memento of Indianians. In a word, it is a part of national history. He was among the bravest in the history of this country, and long hence his bravery and good character will be mentioned with grateful pride. It is hoped that at an early date the general government will erect a monument to his memory here in this city. This would be a fitting tribute to him by a generous nation, and is certainly due his record. The government owes it to him for his services so willingly and readily given, and for the great sacrifice he made on his country's altar. In truth, the yielding up of one's life is the grandest sacrifice that can be made. He lives in the hearts of the people, and a monument would be a just recognition of his supreme services. The Gavitt family have made sacrifices for their country which the government has been tardy to recognize and reward. They are history makers. Every one who enjoys the blessings of this country to-day owes something to the memory of this patriotic family.

He was popular with all classes, and his frankness, open hearted- ness and generosity were common remarks. Ot a kind disposition, quick to read human nature, and correct in his conclusions, he was a man who would unhesitatingly lay down his life for his friends. No one ever approached him for aid and went away empty-handed. His generosity, indeed, knew no bounds. His heart was as brave as a lion's and gentle as a woman's. Both the rich and the poor loved him. He was always ready to do whatever circumstances might demand. General U. S. Grant, in a letter to Colonel J. B. Plummer, under date of October 27, 1861, states : "But little doubt can be entertained of the success of our arms, when not opposed by very superior numbers, and iu the action of Frederickstown they have given proof of courage and determination which shows that they would undergo any fatigue or hardship to meet our rebellious brethren, even at great odds. The friends and relatives of those who fell can congratulate themselves in the midst of their affliction, that they fell in maintaining the cause of constitutional freedom and the integrity of a flag erected in the first instance at a sacrifice of many of the noblest lives that ever graced a nation." (History of the Rebellion, vol. 3, page 209, issued by the war department.)

General J. B. Plummer, in his report under date of October 31, 1861, in speaking of Major Gavitt's death, says: "It was there that fell one of Indiana's noblest and bravest sons." (History of the Rebellion, vol. 3.)

Colonel Conrad Baker, in his report dated October 22, 1861, says: " The death of Major Gavitt cannot be too deeply regretted, but it is consoling to know that he fell in the front of the battle gallantly defending the flag of his country."

John Smith Gavitt was married to Frances A. Lamphere, in Gray- ville, Illinois, July 2, 1850. This estimable wife and mother was of French descent, and she died March 14, 1859. Out of this union was born three children — John Smith, (nicknamed "Mitch,") on June 12, 1851, now living in St. Louis; William, on June 19, 1855, now residing in this city, and Joseph Don, on March 24, 1858 a present resident of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

William Gavitt was partly educated in the public schools and St. John's school of this city, and partly in college at Teutopolis, Illinois, and was a student at Notre Dame, Indiana, and afterward electrician at that celebrated institution of learning. When a mere boy he was upon the western plains, during the Black Hills gold excitement, as one of the advance telegraph operators. In 1887 he was appointed special agent for the United States treasury department, in charge of St. George Island, Behring Sea, one of the seal islands. He was complimented by the United States senate in reports read before them and by Hon. C. S. Fairchild, his superior officer, then secretary of the treasury. Mr. Gavitt's efforts in behalf of the oppressed natives of Alaska have been well known and have been properly complimented.

He will do his duty as he finds it, regardless of consequences. He was arbitrator in the great railroad strikes here, when capital and labor were in anger arrayed against each other. In brief, these sort of differences, because of his high sense of fitness and justice, were usually referred to him, and he did the public much good by his wise decisions and timely services. He was a citizen who was well known.

It is a characteristic of the Gavitt family that they never forget their friends or their enemies. True to trust, they would scorn anything dishonorable. They love their noble country and its glorious flag, and its grand institutions. When right, they will go the end. Unfaltering in purpose, unswerving in principle, always striving to be right, one who aims, in the old Latin adage, "esse quam videri," William Gavitt is one whose acquaintance and friendship are privileges to be desired.

JOHN J. PENNINGTON, M. D.

Dr. Penniugton was born in 1805 in Mecklenburg county Virginia, and came to Indiana in 1818. The author first became acquainted with him in 1837. The doctor was at that time living in Princeton, Indiana, and had an extensive practice at that place. He also practiced at Evansville and often made trips down here to see his patients. He had many friends and the more they knew him the greater was their admiration for him. He was very genial and we talked about old Virginia life whenever we met. Dr. Pennington was a specimen of man in statue, was about six feet and one inch iii height and finely proportioned, and was also a born orator, his speeches being eloquent and intelligent. He bore a striking resemblance to General Scott, and everybody who had known or seen the general in Virginia noticed the likeness. The doctor said that he and the general were raised in the same part of the country and had often met.

The author spent the summer of 1836 in Richmond, where he saw General Scott at the Fourth of July celebration. The general headed the great military procession on horseback, and was the center of attraction to all the people. He was a fine specimen of an officer.

As Doctor Pennington bore a facial resemblance to General Scott, so he resembled him in character. He was a brave, just, generous and sympathetic man. His character was replete with all that is admirable in human kind. He married Miss Elizabeth Ann Snethen, of Louisville, Kentucky, in 1831, and settled at Princeton, Indiana. Their family consisted of three sons and four daughters : Nicholas S., Walter B. and Charles C. Pennington, and Miss Susan M. H., Miss Belle D., Mrs. B. L. Groves (deceased) and Mrs. R. J. Harp.

Dr. Pennington came to Evansville in 1855. His career was one of great activity and application, conducting a large and successful medical practice. During the civil war he was surgeon of the first general hospital, for sick and wounded soldiers, established by the United States government at Evansville. He departed this life in 1891, his beloved wife having preceded him five years. He was a noble man and mourned by all who knew him.

THE HOPKINS FAMILY.

The Hopkins race came orginally from England. Edward Hopkins, the pioneer in Evansville, lived at Truxton, New York. He and his brother Stephen eventually settled in the neighborhood of Evansville, when it was a pioneer village. In those early days farming was the chief occupation of the settlers, however, Edward, who with his family located in Evansville in 1819, was a merchant trader.

His son, John S. Hopkins, was born in Truxton, New York, on the 28th day of October, 1811, so that he was only eight years old when his father settled in Evansville. Early in life he started in commercial affairs, and all along in the history of the town he has been one of the leading, public-spirited citizens, prominently identified with its material growth from its very founding to the day of his death. His schooling was secured in the imperfect schools of his early day, and it was not such as the people of to-day obtain.

But he was a man of superior intellect, and the experience of a busy life were all valuable lessons, developing in him a vivid and clear conception of men and affairs and fixing his great force of character.

His course towards all men was praiseworthy and gained him the esteem of his friends and acquaintances. For many years he was actively engaged in mercantile pursuits, and amassed a considerable fortune in that business. A mind ever ready to receive imformation from whatsoever source and open to every form of human activity and experience, he gained a wide practical knowledge of all that pertained to the general welfare of his fellowmen. Add to this his strong convictions of right and his courage to defend them, he was natually placed in positions of trust and honor.

He was elected city collector in 1837. Three years later he a member of the city council. Following this he was placed upon municipal board. These were gradation steps to the higher position of mayor of Evansville, to which place he was elected in April, 1 So3, his term of office lasting for three years; In the times that men's souls — in 1861 — he was in the Indiana legislature, and aga_i the same place in 1 879. His record was honorable there and o a book.

He retired from the business of merchandising with a petence, but still his business career was not closed. On the o zation of the First National bank he was chosen its president which position he was retained until January, 1879. Even \>^ this, it needs to be said, he was president of the old Canal l^ Great ability characterizes his thirty-three years' a dministratio x president of the Evansville, Cairo and Memphis packet company in the last year of his life, when he had retired from nearly all ness affairs, he served as director of several corporations. In of the great enterprises of this city he was one of the first promo and he was director of the Evansville & Terre Haute railroad al from its inception. When the sands of life had nearly run ou"fc him he forgot not his Creator, whom he had remembered in the of his youth.

He closed his earthly pilgrimage on July 6, 1882. In regard to his character it may be said that he never forgo* triend, and always extended a liberal hand to the needy and the tutions around him that were designed for the betterment of ma. He was jealous of the right and strict in the performance of 'lls obligations to others. He neglected no duty and he rewarded ev^ry benefit rendered to him. He was an honest man and a benevoleUt citizen, and his place was never filled. in He was married December 9, 1834 to Mary Ann Parrett, daughter of Rev. Robert Parrett, the founder of Methodism in Evansville. To them were born : Frank Hopkins, Mrs. Alexander H. Foster, John S. Hopkins, Mrs. Edward Twombler, Robert P. Hopkins, Jr., Mrs. Frank P. Byrnes and Edward O. Hopkins. The three sisters that survived him were Mrs. Charles Viele, Mrs. Charles Babcock and Mrs. Eliza Wheeler.

THE PARRETT FAMILY.

As heretofore noted Mary Ann Parrett was the wife of John S. Hopkins, and the mother of the present descendants bearing the Hopkins patronymic. To recount briefly the Parrett family, as it related to the Hopkins lineage, is the purpose here now.

Rev. Robert Parrett was of English parentage, and he himself was born in England February 14, 1791. He was properly educated for a curacy, and later a benefice in the church of England, but his liberal trend of mind carried him to the doctrines of John Wesley.

With his family he emigrated to the United States about 1816, and began a more active promulgation of his views and convictions. In 1819 he located in Posey county, and settled to the task of a pioneer farmer for the livelihood of his family, at the same time engaging in the work of founding Methodism in this part of the state. Rev. Joseph Wheeler and his brother Rev. Richard Wheeler, both educated men, united with Rev. Robert Parrett and Rev. John Schrader in carrying the word of God into the newly established village of Evansville.

Rev. John Schrader, a man of great enthusiasm and vast learning, a power in the pulpit, whose eloquence was almost resistless, on Saturday, December 12, 1819, in Hugh McGary's double-log warehouse, preached the first Methodist sermon ever delivered in Evaus- ville. To attend this enthusiastic service Joseph Wheeler walked in from " Blue Grass " and heard Rev. Schrader. Rev. Parrett also attended the service. At this meeting it was arranged that Rev. Robert Parrett and the two Wheeler brothers should preach at this new point added to the Patoka circuit, so that there would be service every two weeks. In 1825 Rev. Parrett located permanently in Evansville, and never again lived elsewhere. On Sunday, May 19, 1825, Mr. Parrett organized a class here, the first, consisting of Mr. Parrett and his wife, Martha Parrett, Edward Hopkins and his wife Mary Hopkins, Jane Lewis, Abraham P. Hutchinson, Arthur Mc- Johnsou and his wife Mary McJohuson, Hannah Robinson, Jane Warner and Mrs. Seaman.

Warner and Mrs. Seaman. When the first church was completed in 1839, it was well-known that Mr. Parrett had done a liberal part * r indeed. His farm, lying in what is now the southeastern part of the city, supplied the brick which Mr. Parrett had burnt lor that purpose on his farm. In this church he labored until the close of his useful life. He was a man of unction, a master worker for 'good always, and had an unfaltering faith in God and his eternal justice. His rare intellectual powers, his close reasoning, his wonderful judgment, his constructive talent, made him a man of power as well as of distinction. In civil matters he was a man of wide reading and great comprehension, as his speech, in 1827, on Adams and Jefferson, demonstrated.

His long-time friend, Rev. Joseph AVheeler, was born near Oxford, England, in 1778. He was a man of great sweep of intellect, finely educated, and a nobleman in the cause of Christ. Rev. Parrett died January 29, 1860. About four years after his death Rev. Wheeler closed his earthly career and passed to his reward.

The children of Rev. Robert Parrett were : Sons — Rev. John W., Richard Watson, Robert Bond, William F., John De La Fletcher and Joseph Parrett. Daughters — Mary Ann, wife of John S. Hopkins ; Sarah, wife of Rev. Reed; Martha, wife of Rufus Roberts; Jane, wife of Alvah Johnson, and Eva, wife of Union Bethell. t * ?

WATKINS F. NISBET.

The man who was to achieve distinction in many ways in Evansville traces his ancestry back through a line of active men, who settled in Kentucky from the Carolinas. The father of Watkius F. Nisbet was of Scotch-Irish descent, and possessed all the excellent traits and unyielding energies and splendid mental powers of that enterprising class of people. He settled in Kentucky in an early day — indeed, was one of the pioneers. Being skilled in the science of surveying, he helped survey and lay out the larger part of Hopkins county. He secured a farm and devoted his energies to the cultivation of the soil.

The subject of this biography was born in Madisonville, Hopkins county, Ky., November 27, 1825, and reared upon a farm. There he learned the broad precepts that nature teaches and builded up that fine energy which in mature life carried him successfully through every business enterprise he undertook.

At about the time of his majority, with some money he had accumulated through his commendable habits of economy and thrift, he left the farm and started upon a new career.

It seems that this career was not a dream, but a practical ambition, coupled with a strong resolution to succeed. From the farm Mr. Nisbet went to Madisonville, the county-seat of the county in which he had lived all his life, and engaged in the general merchandise business, about 1845. He remained in this business until the gold fever caught him in 1849. He, with four others, went to California to seek their fortunes in that great western state, which the "Pathfinder" had previously captured from Mexico for the United States. Thev arrived at San Francisco when " it was only a village of a few dugouts and plain, low frame buildings — a real backwoods town. Without needless delay they went into the mining districts, and for one year dug gold from the mountains and the placers. Mr. Nisbet being a man of correct habits of life and always exercising his splendid sense of economy, met with fairly good success. But his partners dreamed of the ease at home, found the life which Bret Harte describes in his " Luck of Roaring Camp " distasteful, and decided to return to the " states." Mr. Nisbet, of course, did not wish to be left alone in those tremendous wilds, and concluded to return with them. In those days the pathway home was a long one, far around. Many journeyed the perilous way there overland across the alkali desert, but the usual way home was either down the coast and across the Isthmus of Tehauntepec in Nicaragua, or far around the point called Cape Horn. Vessels from Boston and the east carried cargoes there, which were disposed of along the western coast, and • returning, brought back passengers. Often these vessels were old unseaworthy craft, and it was Mr. Nisbet's ill luck to take passage home in one of that kind. The voyage was a hard and perilous one of several months' duration. On the way they encountered several storms, and suffered many hardships on account of the prolongation of the journey. Their drinking water finally gave out, and their food supply was exhausted. Then the tortures of hunger and thirst obliged the passengers to pay almost any price for the seep water obtained from the ship's hold. This was sold at so much a glass, just as drinks are sold to-day over the bar. After a desperate struggle with wind and wave, and battling for life against starvation and death, they finally landed at British Honduras. They made an overland trip to the Gulf of Mexico, crossed the gulf and then came up the Mississippi river. After arriving at home, Mr. Nisbet again entered the business he had first begun. That same business energy that always characterized him now brought him an enlarged trade and better returns, if possible, than ever before. He made his purchases for this Madison- ville store principally in Philadelphia. There he made a trip every year. It was a long and tedious journey. He went first to Henderson, thence up the Ohio river to Pittsburgh and took stage over the Allegheny mountains to the City of Brotherly Love. It was a long, wearysome journey then. Having purchased a year's supply, or stock of goods, he returned home over the same route he had gone. His freight, or. goods, followed him in the same slow, tedious way.

After pursuing this line of business for several years in a successful manner, he enlarged the field of his labors. In the midst of a vast tobacco region, he saw that he could deal in tobacco in connection with his other business, and by that means enhance his net proceeds at the end of the year. With persistent energy, surmounting every obstacle, he turned everything to good account, and up to the opening of the mighty civil conflict between the north and the south, he had accumulated quite a little sum of money out of the mercantile and tobacco business united. With the sound of arms and the tramp of armies over the land, he observed that his sympathies for and with the Union were not in general harmony with that of his friends and neighbor.*.

As the war progressed and its bitterness increased and the red blood of human veins dyed the soil a scarlet hue, his Union sentiments made his situation uncomfortable to a certain degree. He looked upon his growing family with a kind father's solicitude and desire for the welfare of each one, and feeling the necessity of better educational advantages for them, induced him to move to Evansville, in 1863. As far as is known, he never denied the fact that his Union sentiments had something to do with his change of location at that time.

And now as a citizen of Evansville, having previously carefully and fully considered his course, he engaged in the dry goods business. His unflagging application and masterful energies applied to business always brought him success. He never undertook anything without having first fully matured all its plans and considered it in its every detail, and consequently he never encountered failure or even a stagnant condition of trade. After several years of prosperous wholesale mercantile business, he bought out his partner's interests and joined in partnership with D. J. Mackey, under the firm name of Mackey, Nis- bet & Co. Still continuing in this vast and increasing business they also engaged in buying cotton and tobacco in large quantities and shipping their purchase to New York and Liverpool. He was the first man in Evansville to go up the Tennessee river at the close of the war and buy cotton for the general market. He thus opened up a new and profitable market to the cotton growers along the river, and brought prosperity to their doors. It was like a blessing to those poor, war- ravaged people, from whose ears the terrible boom of cannon and tbe sound of the tramp of devasting armies had scarcely died out. After several years of activity in the tobacco and cotton business, the firm at length decided to discontinue further purchase of these articles of commerce and devote its entire time to the wholesale dry goods business.

They possessed large interests in the cotton mill, and turned their attention now to its operation on a broader and more successful scale.

A man of such untiring energy and resistless force, as Mr. Nisbet was, could not be restrained to a single line of activity, nor be con- teuted with a partial exercise of his business qualifications. So as might be inferred, or perhaps expected, he found exercise for his ceaseless activity in being at the head of other large public enterprises, or in counseling and lending liberal pecuniary support to social and moral movements. It was natural to find him in the van. He was a successful general in business and in social reforms As an evidence or illustration of this truth, it may be mentioned that he was the first president of the Evansville, Rockport and Eastern Railroad. He was also president of the Evansville, Paducah and Cairo Packet Company, and a director in the Louisville and Evausville Mail Company.

His high moral ideas were uot simply exercised on Sunday in church but as well in his affairs every day of his life. He was an elder in the First Cumberland Presbyterian church of this city, and always took great and unfaltering interest in its affairs, both spiritual and material.

He was one of the largest contributors to the fund that built the large, beautiful edifice on the corner of Second and Chestnut streets. His moral activity was no less than his commercial energy; for he was a member of the board of publication, and one of the founders of the board of ministerial relief. This latter is one of the best, greatest, and noblest of its kind in the country. He was one of the trustees of Evans Hall, in the erection of which he took a prominent part. It would require more space than is here to be disposed of in that manner to recount his many private deeds of charity, or relate the many movements for the general good in which he concerned himself.

Mr. \V. F. Nisbet and Miss Sarah F. Arnold were married November 23, 1852, by Rev. Mr. Bone, a Cumberland Presbyterian minister in Madisonville, Ky. She was a sweet and lovable lady, a true helpmeet all through his life, faithful in every family duty, watchful of her family's happiness, self-sacrificing for. their happiness, and devoted to every good cause and work.

With such a true companion life was a unjoy instead of a burden, a summer day instead of a winter night, a glory instead of a meaningless span of days.

To them were born ten children, whose names are : David A., Sarah A. (Mrs. Grammar), Samuel B., Edward A., Watkins F. (deceased), Jennie, (Mrs. Zarecor), Robert K., Fannie, (Mrs. Holeman), and her twin brother Frank \V. and Gus T. Mr. Nisbet was a man of extraordinary business energy. His faculty was more to move business masses, which is to say, move large com.' mercial transactions and set them in motion, than to dwell upon mArvot affairs. And still no man had a clearer knowledge of the miuutia. o* business or was more perfect in its details.

His ability to handle IsirgC masses of business did not interfere with his watchful oversight c1 the minor matters of affairs. He was a man who could and superintend a wonderful volume of trade, and at the same time c its smallest detail. Exhaustless, tireless in business capacity, he r» «3 ver flinched from any duty. It was one of his marked traits to be sa.t>le quickly to concentrate his qualifications on business.

His about the result of a movement in a commercial enterprise was erring. It is not coarse praise to apply the flattering term of >c chant prince" to him; for he was indeed that.

Mr. Nisbet was a man of very reserved nature, particularly wl»«^n came to publicity regarding his own life or his family affairs — a commendable and happy quality. He was always averse to pub»l ish- ing anything about himself, and he shrank from print just as would from a touch with something displeasing and distressing, his family, no man was more considerate and kind than he. His death, a truly business calamity, occurred July 7, 1886. wife survived him eight years. She passed to the beyond 29, 1894. In a word, she was a noble woman, connecting prominently with every good thing in the city, and looking after poor in a substantial way. Many a load of coal, or a sack of flot*^' piece of beef found its way to the home of the discouraged poor no one knew of but herself. Her deep Christian convictions led into active help of the needy. Her contributions to worthy were liberal, and she was actuated by the sublime Christian doctrit**1 not letting her right hand know what her left hand did. one ' '

LIST OF BUSINESS MEN.

The following is a list of the business men aud their places of business in Evansville in 1837, the year the author first allied his interests with the young city.

Silas Stephens — Saddle and harness shop; Walnut street, near Water. Hotel and Boarding House — Upper corner of Locust street; kept by Mr. Smith and Mr. Connor.

Shanklin & Caldwell — Dry goods and groceries and dealers in produce; situated on the corner of Locust and Water streets.

Lyon & Wilcox — Druggists; on Water street, between Main and Locust.

Joseph Wheeler, Sam'l Lister & Jos. Caldwell — Dry goods and groceries and dealers in produce; on Water street, between Main and Ix>cust.

John S. Hopkins — Dealer in groceries and produce; on Water street, between Main and Locust.

Robert Barnes — Dry goods and groceries and dealer in country produce; on Water street, between Main and Locust.

John Mitchel — Dealer in dry goods, groceries and country produce; upper corner Main and Water streets. The State Bank of Indiana was kept in the same building; John Mitchell was president and John Douglas was cashier.

Butler & Coleman — Dealers in dry goods, groceries and produce; lower corner of Main and Water streets.

C. M. Griffith — Dealer in hardware and cutlery; Water street, between Main and Sycamore.

J. B. Lamphear — Dealer in liquors and fine wines of all kinds; on Water street, between Main and Sycamore.

Alexander Laugh 1 in & Co., Samuel Orr, agent — Dealers in iron, nails and blacksmith tools; lower corner Sycamore street.

Charles Harrington — Hotel and boarding house; situated on Water street, where the St. Cloud Hotel now stands.

Alansou Warner — Hotel, afterwards known as the Mansion House, run by Francis Linck, who became tl)6 owner; situated on the corner of First and Locust streets, where the Peoples Theatre now stands.

Stewart & Goodsell — Wholesale dealers in groceries, commission merchants; afterwards sold out to Asa Bement and Charles Viele, who carried on the business for years afterward; situated on Main street, near where the Old National Bank stands.

Hazzard & Hebberd — New York Store; Main street, near corner of Second.

John W. Lilliston — Dealer in drugs, paints and oils, on the corner of Main and First streets; afterward sold to Wm. and Crawford Bell, who sold to other dealers, and after that the building was occupied by John Healey as a book and stationery store.

Thomas Johnson — Hotel; situated on the upper corner of First and Vine streets.

Gardiner Bowles — Blacksmithing and horseshoeing; situated on alley between First and Second streets and between Main and Sycamore.

Bowles & Whiting — Dealers in dry goods and groceries ; Main street, between First and Second.

Polk Bros. — Cabinetmaker shop; First street, bet. Locust and Walnut, where now stands the residence of the late Dr. Daniel Morgan.

Mr. Herman — Cabinetmaker ; Third street, between Locust and Walnut.

Abraham Gumberts — Merchant tailor; in John Mausell building on Main street, between First and Second.

Jacob Sinzich — Bakery arid boarding house ; Water street, between Sycamore and Vine.

Greek & Schmall — Groceries and produce ; Main street, between First and Second.

Robert Fergus — Cabinetmaker ; Main street, between Third and Fourth.

Warner & Setchell — Livery stable; on the alley between Locust and Walnut, in the rear of where the St. George Hotel now stands.

Seth Pritchett — Blacksmith and repair shop ; on the alley above Main street, near Igleheart's mill.

John Henson — Carpenter and undertaker ; Main street, between Fourth and Fifth.

Varney Satterlee — Wagoumaker and blacksmith ; Main street between Fourth and Fifth.

William and Jacob Hunnel — Carpenters and builders ; on the alley where the Kohinoor Laundry now is.

Thomas Eaton — Carpenter and builder ; on the alley between Main and Locust, in the rear of Sampson & Albin building.

James Steele — Carpenter and builder ; working for Field & Stock-well, contractors.

Wm. Renschler — Blacksmith ; Fourth street, between Main and Sycamore.

George W. Chad — Blacksmith ; Vine street, between First and Water.

John Trible — Carpenter and builder; Fourth street, between Vine and Division.

Parvin & DeGarmo — Blacksmiths; Main street, between Fourth and Fifth.

Aaron Harrington — Jewelry; Main street, between Second and Third.

Charles Wade — Watchmaker and jeweler; Main street, between Second and Third.

John J. Marlett — Livery stable ; on the alley between Locust and Walnut, having purchased from Warner & Setchell.

Mr. Meyers — Gunsmith ; Second street, between Main and Sycamore.

William Newitt — Florist, near Jacobsville.

Edgar Dunk — Florist and gardener, near Jacobsville.

Abraham Sullivan — Brickmaker, Sullivantown.

Robert Parrett — Brickmaker, Upper Second street.

Allis & Howes — Grocers, produce and liquors ; Main street, between First and Second, in what was known as Checkered Store.

Burbank & Carpenter — Dry goods, groceries and produce ; Main street, between Second and Third.

Scantlin & Sons — Dealers and manufacturers of tinware and stoves; Main street, between First and Second.

Brackett Mills — Carpenter and builder.

Fielding Stockwell — Carpenter and builder; Second street, between Walnut and Cherry.

ATTORNEYS.
W. T. T. Jones,
Amos Clark,
John Law,
Charles I. Battell,
William Jones,
James Lockhart.

PHYSICIANS.
William Trafton — First street, between Locust and Water.
Daniel Lane — Second street, between Main and Locust.
Dr. Phillips — Second street, near Main.
A. P. Hutchinson, Main street, between First and Second.
Daniel Morgan — First street, between Main and Locust.
M. J. Bray,with Dr. Trafton — First street, between Locust and Walnut,
George B. Walker — Main street, between First and Second.

Bios from other sources

JAMES BETHEL GRESHAM, Corporal, Sixteenth Infantry 
The first American to give his life on the battlefields of France after the armed 
forces of the United States began military operations against Germany was a Hoosier 
lad, James Bethel Gresham, of Evansville, Indiana. The impressive ceremonies held 
at the time of his funeral, and that of the two comrades who fell during the same 
raid that caused Corporal Gresham's death, are particularly appropriate to Indiana's 
Gold Star Volume. General Bordeaux, the French commander of the sector in which 
the raid occurred, near Bathelemont, accompanied by his full staff, infantry, 
artillery, and engineer chiefs, and a representative of the French Corps commander, 
had charge of the ceremonies. As the bodies of these first heroes were lowered 
in the graves, a company of United States Infantry fired three volleys, and the 
trumpeter sounded taps. General Bordeaux delivered the following address: "In 
the name of the Eighteenth Division, in the name of the French Army, and in the 
name of France, I bid farewell to Corporal Gresham, Private Enright, and Private 
Hay, of the Sixteenth Infantry, American Army."
Of their own free will they had left their happy and prosperous country to come 
over here. They knew that the war continued in Europe; they knew that the forces 
fighting for honor, love, justice, civilization, were still checked by the long-
prepared forces which are serving the powers of brutal domination, oppression, 
barbarity. They knew that an effort was still necessary."
They ignored nothing of the circumstances. Nothing had been concealed from them 
neither the length nor hardships of this war, nor the violence of the battle, nor 
the dreadfulness of the new weapons, nor in the perfidy of the foe. Nothing stopped 
them. They had the perfidy of the foe. Nothing stopped them. They had accepted to 
lead a hard and strenuous life; they had crossed the ocean despite great peril; 
they had taken their place on the front by our side; they have fallen facing the 
foe in a hard and desperate hand-to-hand fight. Honor to them! Their families, 
their friends, and their fellow-citizens will be proud when they learn of their 
death."
Men: These graves, the first to be dug in our national soil, at but a short distance 
from the enemy, are as a mark of the mighty hand of our allies, firmly clinging 
to the common task, confirming the will of the people and Army of the United 
States to fight with us to a finish ; ready to sacrifice as long as it will be 
necessary, until final victory for the noblest of causes  that of liberty of 
nations, the weak as well as the mighty."
Thus the death of this humble corporal and of these two private soldiers appears 
to us with extraordinary grandeur. We will therefore ask that the mortal remains 
of these young men be left here — be left to us forever. We will inscribe on their 
tombs: 'Here lie the first soldiers of the United States Republic to fall on the 
soil of France for Justice and Liberty. The passer by will stop and uncover his 
head. 
The travelers of France, of the allied countries, of America, the men of heart 
who will come to visit our battle-field of Lorraine, will go out of their way to 
come here,  to bring to these graves the tribute of their respect and of their 
gratefulness. "Corporal Gresham, Private Enright, Private Hay: In the name of 
France, I thank you. God receive your souls. Farewell!"

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