HISTORY
OF
ORANGE COUNTY
CHAPTER 6
PAOLI - THE ORIGINAL PLAT - THE EARLIEST RESIDENT FAMILIES - FIRST BUSINESS ENTERPRISES - MANUFACTURES - PORK PACKING, ETC. - MERCHANTS, EARLY AND LATE - THE BANK OF PAOLI - INCORPORATION - ACTS AND OFFICERS - ORDINANCES, ETC. - SECRET SOCIETIES - NEWS - PAPERS - ORLEANS - THE PLAT - FIRST INHABITANTS AND MERCHANTS - MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS - INCORPORATION AND OFFICERS - THE SCHOOL BONDS - SECRET SOCIETIES - THE PRESS - THE RAILROAD - THE FAIR - NEWTON STEWART - UNIONVILLE - PITTSBURG - ORANGEVILLE - VALEENE - LANCASTER - FRENCH LICK - NEW PROSPECT - CHAMBERSBURG - MILLERSBURG |
It is erroneously thought that the town of Paoli was originally laid out
by Jonathan Lindley on land belonging to himself the year before the county of
Orange was created, though this is a mistake quite natural and is readily
understood when the facts are known. The land upon which the original town was
laid out - the northeast quarter of Section 1, Township 1 north, Range 1
west-was purchased from the Government by Thomas Lindley May 27, 1815, and the
northwest and southwest quarters of the same section were purchased by Thomas
Hopper, September 12, 1811. Early in 1816 the county of Orange came into
existence under an act of the Legislature (see elsewhere) which appointed five
Commissioners to visit the county, examine all the eligible sites. and
permanently fix the seat of justice. This was done, the Commissioners fixing
upon the northeast quarter of Section 1, above mentioned, on the land of Thomas
Lindley. As they wanted more land than the northeast quarter, they also
selected a tract of seventy acres on the east side of the northwest quarter of
the same section, owned by Thomas Hopper. It became necessary for the
Commissioners to secure the transfer of the title of this land to the county,
and accordingly they bought of Thomas Lindley all of the northeast quarter-160
acres-for $1,000, and seventy acres of Thomas Hopper on the northwest quarter
for $500, or a total of 230 acres for $1,500 bought for county purposes. At the
time this land was conveyed to the county, certificates of sale were made out,
and Lindley and Hopper were required to enter into bond with good and
sufficient security to complete the conveyance by deed to the county. Lindley
did this April 23, 1817, and Hopper April 22, 1817, or about one year after the
sale of the land, and over a year after the creation of the county and the
establishment of Paoli as the seat of justice. For some reason unknown to the
writer, Lindley received only $800 for his land, though Hopper received $500,
the amount named in the certificate and the deed. It is thought that Lindley
received several lots in Paoli in lieu of the other $200.
The reason why Jonathan Lindley came in for so much credit and prominence in
the affairs of the town now follows. At the first meeting of the County Board
in the early spring of 1816 Jonathan Lindley was appointed County Agent, with
full authority to have the county seat laid out into lots, and to transact all
business concerning the land bought as above mentioned for county purposes. In
his official capacity as County Agent he made out every deed to lot buyers,
sold every lot, received the proceeds, whether in the form of money or
negotiable or other paper, and on the other hand received the deeds in his own
name, but in his official capacity, of the land purchased of Thomas Lindiey and
Thomas Hopper by the Locating Commissioners. In other words, he bought this
land as County Agent, but as a matter of fact did not own it himself at all. By
virtue of his office, and under the direction of the County Board, he laid out
223 lots in April, 1816, a plat of the new town of Paoli being made on a large
sheet of paper and copied into "Deed Record A," in the Recorder's
Office. The first sale of lots, which occurred in April, 1816, aggregated
proceeds to the amount of $6,423. Lots sold for as high as $300, and many of
the settlers living in the vicinity of the town became buyers. The fact that
all the transfers of these lots were made by Jonathan Lindley, and the further
fact that he laid out the town as County Agent, gave rise to the present
prevailing belief that he laid out the town originally on his own land.
THE EARLIEST RESIDENT FAMILIES
Although many lots were sold at the first and subsequent sales, the growth of the town was slow, owing to the fact that many of the lots were bought for purposes of speculation. Among the earliest families to locate in the town were those of James Pearson, John Pickard, John Brown, William Hoggatt, Daniel Dunihue, Jesse Towel, James Sutton, Zachariah Lindley, Jacob Dishon, Joshua Nichols, Mark Trueblood William Runnells, Jonathan Jones, Thomas Fulton, Jonathan Lindley, Ebenezer Doan, and a little later John McVey, Thomas Lindley, James Clark, Maj. Charles Dewey, Alexander Kearby, John Patton, Dr. Allen, Ephraim Doan, Abraham Bosley, Duncan Darrock, Jonathan Braxtan, John G. Cleudenin, Thomas F. Chapman, Enoch Blanchard, Thomas Stephens, Josiah Hazlewood, Daniel Dayhuff, Robert Liggett. Joseph Potts, Joseph Strain. Robert Paterson, Zachariali Moorman, Edmund Newby, J. T. Throop, John Dawson, J. Johnson, Hiram Braxtan, Gabriel Baldwin. Alfred Athon, B. Johnson, Thomas Coffin, William A. Bowles, F. Liggett, Thomas J. Brooks, Solomon Bryant, William Freeman, James Collins, Matthias Lemon, David Adams, Abraham Osborn, Elijah Atkinson and several others. The above list comprises all the leading families, but few, of the town prior to 1830.
EARLY BUSINESS INTERESTS
o far as can be learned, James Pearson was the first to sell goods in Paoli. He obtained his license in 1816 within a few months after the lots were laid out and sold, so that if any one preceded him it was only by a very short time. It is asserted that James Russell sold goods in the town in 1816, but of this nothing trustworthy could be learned. Mark Trueblood opened a tavern in 1817, but James Pearson was the first tavern-keeper as well as the first store-keeper and liquor-Seller. John Brown was the "stray keeper" in 1848. Daniel Dunihue opened a tavern and bar in 1818, as did also William Runnells. Samuel Chambers began selling goods in 1822, and Thomas F. Chapman, Robert Liggett and John G. Clendenin about the same time, or in 1823. Edmund Newby and John Dawson opened separate stores in 1824. Hiram Braxtan brought in a store in about 1825. At this time the leading merchants were Chapman, Pearson, Clendenin, Braxtan, Dawson, Newby and Liggett. They all had small stores of general merchandise, such as was needed in the woods at that day. Nearly all, if not all, kept liquor on their counters for their patrons. Abigail Chapman was in business in 1826, and Joseph Potts started a store at that date. Ephraim Doan engaged in merchandising in 1828, as did Wible and Lingle. William A. Bowles opened a liquor store in 1828. Thomas J. Brooks & Co. brought in about $2,000 worth of goods in 1829. J. & B. Johnson also opened a good general store. Matthias Lemon was one of the tavern-keepers at this time. Solomon Bryant and William Freeman were selling liquor. Liggett kept tavern. David Adams began with a store in 1830; Doan & Hagan did likewise about the same time. Patrick Dougherty opened a tavern in 1831. H. M. Kennedy commenced selling liquor in 1831. as did also Alexander Morris. Alexander Moulder opened a store in 1832. Bowles & Morris formed a partnership in the liquor business in 1832. Ephraim Doan was tavernkeeper in 1833. The merchants at this time were Newby, Braxtan, the Johnsons. Adams, Clendenin, Moulder. Isaac H. Pierce sold liquor in 1833; also Josiah Hazlewood. In 1834 Abner W. Wilson, Joseph Johnson, Jonathan Lindley, Josiah Hazlewood, Isaac H. Pierce, and perhaps others had liquor shops in town. So much drunkenness resulted from this that the great majority of the citizens of the town petitioned the County Board not to grant any more liquor licenses, but the Commissioners refused the prayer of the petitioners and continued to issue licenses, for $50 per year. This was a source of revenue which they could not well do without, they doubtless thought. The town had a newspaper at this time. Alexander and William Moulder had a large store, in 1834. William Lindley and Abraham White in partnership opened a fine general store in 1834. Bowles, Dixon, White and Windom were the resident physicians. Campbell & Simpson were in the mercantile business in 1835, and William Braxtan also. Alexander Moulder engaged in the liquor business in 1837. If one man could have obtained a monopoly on the liquor business then, he could have made his fortune in a few years. John T. Throop had a store in 1838. In 1839-40 the merchants were: J. H. Campbell, Lindley & White, J. G. Clendenin, Zachariah Moornan, John T. Throop, Polson, McGuire & Co., J. T. Mox. ley, Hiran Braxtan, Henry Jordan, and perhaps others. Mrs. Meriam kept the old "Mansion House." Mrs. Ruth Bray was milliner and mantaumaker. Pat Dougherty and Grigsby & Albert were tailors. S. Campbell. Jr., sold saddles and harness. Henry Miller and W. E. Liston conducted cabinet shops. A. Davis owned a small store. Campbell & Simpson had drugs. Peter Coruwell and William Marshall were hatters. Col. John Murray kept the hotel "Union Hall," in which was the customary bar; he also kept a feed stable. Z. Moorman sold drugs. Payne, Guyer and McGargy were shoemakers. The above were the leading merchants. liquor dealers, hotel-keepers. etc.. before 1840.
MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES
Ephraim Doan was a hatter; so were John Dawson and Thomas Stevens. These
men began late in the twenties to manufacture fine fur hats from the fur of
coon, otter, mink, beaver, etc. It is said that this industry at its most
prosperous period in the town turned out over 500 hats in one year and that
each sold for from $5 to S12. Dawson at first worked for Doan, but later opened
an establishmnent of his own. These establishments supplied a large section of
country with hats which would often last ten or twelve years. In about 1828
David Adams, who had before taught several terms of school in the town, erected
a small building and began the manufacture of black salts. He bought large
quantities of wood ashes from the surrounding country, would often go to the
huge log heaps after the same had been converted into ashes and load his wagon
and take the ashes to town, paying from 3 cents to 7 cents per bushel in money
at first, but later, after he had started his store, giving goods in exchange
for ashes. He hauled the salts to Louisville and brought back loads of goods to
be given to his patrons; or sometimes he shipped the salts by flat-boat down
the streams to Southern markets, where his goods were purchased. William Lynch
manufactured plows. William H. Hudelson says that the first plow he ever owned
he obtained from Lynch in 1831, by trading ashes to Adams, and then with the
proceeds buying the plow of Lynch. Alexander Moulder was also a hatter in Paoli
late in the thirties. His father, Jacob Moulder, who lived about three miles
east, was one of the first wheelwrights in the county, and for years furnished
the settlers for miles around with large and small wheels and all the articles
necessary for spinning and weaving. Early in the thirties John T. Throop and
Zachariah Moorman manufactured an improved wheat fan, which they peddled in
wagons throughout the surrounding country, charging $25 each. Thomas Coffin was
a saddler and harness-maker. Josiah Hazlewood was aa excellent blacksmith.
Thomas Lindley owned a small water grist-mill near Mavity's. John Brown was
also a miller, his building standing as early as 1822 near the fair ground. It
was a tread-mill operated by both horses and oxen.
After a few years he and Abe Osborn built a grist-mill on Lost River. Old Man
Stevens, fatber of Thomas Stevens, was a Methodist minister, who often preached
for the society at Paoli. James Clark was a tanner, and manufactured a considerable
quantity of leather, which he sold mostly at Louisville; he made considerable
buck-skin also. He had about twelve vats, and about five or six hands. It is
said that the hatters of Paoli employed a total of ten men to carry on that
industry. Jesse Towel, who lived about where Abraham Noblitt now lives, owned a
sawmill on Lick Creek, which supplied the town with poplar, walnut and oak or
other lumber. The liquor sold in the town was brought mainly from Louisville,
though Bosley, Pinnick, et al., who owned distilleries in the county, furnished
considerable. The home distillers furnished a good market for corn and rye. If
they did no better they would maunfacture grain into liquor on shares, but
quite often they would buy the grain. Early in the twenties W. H. Hudelson,
then a small boy, was sent by his father with about fifteen bushels of rye, for
which a market could not be found, to Bosley's distillery, near Chambersburg,
and the proprietor agreed to make the grain into whisky on shares, and
accordingly did. There were several kegs of it, all of them being traded off
except one. One of the Clouds owned and operated a combined saw and grist-mill
down the creek from Paoli at an early day, It was well patronized. Clark's
tannery was started as early as 1824, and soon afterward two others were
started by Mr. Peck and Jere Merritt. All three ran quite extensively during
the remainder of the twenties and all of the thirties. This was an important
industry, as large quantities of hides were tanned and shipped to Louisville.
They were discontinued early in the forties. Late in the forties Thomas N.
Braxtan began to manufacture a considerable quantity of oilstones, whetstones,
etc., which became famous all over the country for their excellence, and were
shipped to England, where they found a ready market, being in great demand. He
continued this business for many years, even to within a short time ago. He
employed five to ten hands.
THE EARLY LIVE STOCK AND GRAIN TRADE
As early as 1825 T. F. Chapman began to buy grain of the farmers and ship the same by wagon to Leavenworth, for transportation down the river. About the same time, also, he began to buy live hogs, which were driven to Leavenworth, where they were slaughtered and packed. William Lindley engaged in the same business, though he made a specialty, rather, of the horse and cattle trade. He bought droves of three-year-old steers for an average of $10 per head, and drove them in herds of several hundred to Ohio, where there were extensive markets for them for some reason. He also bought droves of horses and had them driven through to Philadelphia and New York, where they were shipped to Cuba to be used on the large sugar plantations there. Dr. Reed also engaged in buying cattle and hogs, which he drove to Leavenworth, and sold to the large packers there. It is probable that Chapman packed the first pork at Paoli. Dr. Reed and T. V. Thornton seem to have been in partnership in 1833-34, and later in the buying of hogs and the packing of pork. They slaughtered and packed as high as 100 hogs in one season. It was about 1835-36, that Clendenin and Moorman began buying, slaughtering, packing and shipping hogs. Each erected a good substantial and rather large building in the town on Lick Creek, where he gave employment to ten or twelve men during the packing season-from November to March. Together, these men slaughtered as high as 500 hogs in one season. Then in the spring, after the roads became good, the pork was hauled to the Louisville market. Clendenin's packing house was destroyed with fire in 1840, but Moormnan continued several years later. Late in the twenties and during the thirties the above men flat-boated the products of the farm - corn, wheat, rye, oats, flour, pork, skins, etc., to the Southern markets. Lick Creek was then a "navigable stream." James Pearson bought herds of horses and drove them to market at an early day. He was perhaps the earliest buyer of live stock in the town, and Chapman and William Lindley next.
OTHER MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS
In about 1833 Campbell & Simpson erected the necessary buildings, equipped with suitable machinery, and began to card wool. At the same time or a little later they erected an oil-mill, and manufactured linseed oil, buying the flaxseed throughout the surrounding country. As every family raised flax in those days, the industry was common and profitable. About 1835 the Johnsons built the King grist-mill, which they operated until about the year 1850, when they sold out to John Fraser, who made some improvements, and in about 1855 sold out to the Truebloods, who remodeled the mill and made it much more valuable. At the same time, also, the Truebloods, Alfred and Hiram, began to pack pork and to keep store in the Andrews building. They also began the manufacture of cigars, buying large quantities of tobacco throughout the surrounding country. Alfred Trueblood was the active brother. He was venturesome and enterprising, and made a comfortable fortune at the various pursuits mentioned. The brothers had $30,000 worth of capital invested, and had during the busy seasons not less than thirty hired men. They packed 2,000 hogs during each season, and constituted the business life of the town, and gave activity to all other branches of business. Under them the grist-mill became useful and valuable. They made hundreds of thousands of cigars, and shipped tobacco in the leaf packed in huge hogeheads, in considerable quantity. Their store did a mammoth business. Reverses at last fell upon the brothers. Several of their consignments to New York houses were wrecked on the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic, entailing heavy losses, and their speculations and purchases became reckless, until at length, just before the last war, they were compelled to suspend business with heavy liabilities-$10,000 more than their assets, it is said. The grist-mill went to John C. Albert, and just at the close of the war to King & Stucker, who rebuilt it and made it firstclass. These men yet own and conduct it. They also started a woolen factory in an addition built to the mill, and for many years manufactured jeans, flannels, satinete, yarns, etc., of an excellent quality and in considerable quantity. This factory is yet in operating order, though its use is reduced to carding only. During this period, also, these men bought large quantities of wool.
THE BUSINESS MEN OF THE FORTIES
The leading business men during the decade of the forties were: White & Moorman, H. T. Moxley, William and Jonathan Lindley, Lindley & Hazlewood, Hiram Braxtan, J. G. Clendenin, Henry Jordon, W. A. Bowles, Polson & Co., William Cox, John, Samuel and William Wise, Charles H. Moore, E. Coffin & Co., Matthew Trueblood, Grigsby & Albert, F. Bartl, James Cosgrove, Wilford Hoggatt. Henry White, J. N. Springer, A. J. Simpson (wool-carder), W. W. Murray, Wible & Rigney, Newby & Braxtan, Z. Tate & Sons, and others. The doctors were: W. A. Bowles, W. F. Sherrod, R. R. Town, W. W. Dougherty, et al. It is said that William Hoggatt was the first Postmaster, and his widow the second. Patrick Dougherty served as Postmaster from June, 1836, to June, 1866, a period of thirty consecutive years. Titus, Anderson & Co. exhibited a circus and menagerie in Paoli in 1841.
THE BUSINESS MEN OF THE FIFTIES
The leading business men of the decade of the fifties were: Gary & Young, tailors; W. Hoechstiller, jeweler; R. C. Alderson, house-painter; White & Trueblood, drugs; Wilford Hoggatt, wagons and plows; S. P. Wicks, merchandise; H. T. Moxley, merchandise; Wible & Rigney, merchandise; Henry Miller, cabinet; J. E. Sage, merchandise; J. E. Buerk, shoemaker; M. N. Messick, cabinet; Hoggatt & Miller, plows, wagons, etc.; E. Hearch, clothing; Dr. H. F. Barnes, Newby & Braxtan, merchandise; Dillinger & Wells, merchandise; Charles Haury, jeweler; Jackson & Polson, hardware; Gottlieb Belzer, clothing; Alfred & Hiram Trueblood, merchandise, cigars, millers, pork-packers; Dr. W. C. Williamson, Dr. S. Dill, Dr. Voyles; White & Woodford, merchandise; E. Doan. cabinet; W. A. Jackson, ironware; William Hoppe, boots and shoes; Hiram Lindley, drugs; Sarah J. Averell, milliner; J. C. Smith, jeweler, C. Lomax, Daguerreotype artist, and others.
THE BUSINESS MEN OF THE SIXTIES
During the decade of the sixties the business men were: Graham & Lomax, boots and shoes; J. W. Payne, merchandise; J. G. Edmundson, merchandise; J. & H. Lindley, drugs; H. T. Moxley, Sebastian Kuri, boots and shoes; T. N. Braxtan, merchandise; J. C. & B. M. Lingle, saddles and harness; White & Woodford, merchandise; W. H. Jackson, hardware; A. Trueblood & Bro., Dr. J. N. Riley, Pro & Allen, wagons and plows; Ebling and Irwin, tailors; P. L. Warrall, cabinet; Cogswell & Pro, groceries; E. H. Comingore, groceries; Hamman, King & Co., millers: Bowles & Hunt, drugs; Dr. L. S. Bowles, James Warrell, saddles and harness; Andrew J. Rhodes, furniture, and others. The population of Paoli in 1820 was about 80; in 1830 was 300; in 1840 was 450; in 1850 was 500; in 1860 was 530; in 1870 was 700; in 1880 was about 750 and in 1884 was about 800.
SUNDRY ITEMS OF INTEREST
The first temperance movement in Paoli was in 1833-34, when, as stated above, a petition was presented to the County Board, asking that no more licenses be granted for the sale of liquor. The leaders of this movement were A. J. Simpson, David Hudelson, Mr. Scantland, Mr. Springer, et al. They failed to accomplish their object, but effected organization which had results in after years. The completion of the New Albany and Paoli Turnpike in 1839, and the establishment of the True American by Henry Comingore the same year, were important factors in the future growth of Paoli and Orange County. Business at the county seat almost doubled, and it is said that soon afterward the town had as great a population as at present, though this must be a mistake. Daily stages ran out on the pike. giving the town quick communication with the outer world-quick for that day. but wofully slow for the present. In 1850 a fine saxe-horn band was organized at Paoli and instructed by Mr. Eckert, teacher; at the conclusion of his course of instruction his class gave a public exhibition of their success. The efforts made by Paoli to get a railroad early in the fifties are narrated elsewhere. The Postmasters of Paoli have been William Hoggatt, Mrs. William Hoggatt, Patrick Dougherty from 1836 to 1866; H. T. Moxley 1866 to 1870; Mr. Knapp 1870 to 1872; A. J. Rhodes 1872 to 1881; J. P. Throop 1881.
THE TEMPERANCE QUESTION
Late in the forties and early in the fifties the evil effects of the prevailing intemperate use of ardent spirits was strongly felt, not only in Orange County but throughout all the West, if not the United States. People began to find out that alcohol was not one of the necessities of life, as had been previously and erroneously thought by many. Drunkards became alarmingly numerous, but owing to the prevailing custom and the tendency of public thought to overlook the evil, the sorrowful homes were likewise disregarded. During the decade of the forties the truth came out visible to the masses, and temperance organizations sprang up in all directions like mushrooms from a hot-bed. In March, 1850, a public meeting in the interest of the temperance movement was held at Paoli. Dr. W. W. Dougherty was made Chairman of the meeting, and J. C. Thornton appointed Secretary. John Baker, Z. W. Coffin and W. W. Murray were appointed to draft a constitution and by-laws similar to that of the Washingtonians and the Temperance Union, their report with some changes, the object of the Paoli Temperance Association, "being to remove the evil effects of intemperance." The following permanent officers were elected: John Baker, President; Bennett Grigsby, Vice-President; J. C. Thornton, Secretary; Benjamin McCann, Treasurer; James Abernathy, Auditor.
THE BANK OF PAOLI
This institution began business in 1854 with a capital stock of $50,000
based upon Louisiana six per cent bonds, and the combined real and personal
effects of the stockholders was declared to be worth over half a million of
dollars. The doors were first thrown open December 16, 1854, with the following
officers in attendance: James M. Hains, of New Albany, President; Elijah Sabin,
of New Albany, Cashier; Zeno W. Coffin, Teller; A. J. Simpson, Cornelius White,
James M. Hains, George Lyman and Elijah Sabin, Directors. It was officially
announced that six per cent interest would be paid on deposits of six months'
duration or over. The paper of the bank began to appear, and at first was
received with some fear and at a slight discount, but soon it went up to par
and became current in exchanges. The following are the articles of association,
and the names of the original stockholders with the number of shares held by
each:
"The undersigned associate themselves together for the purpose of
establishing an office of discount, deposit and circulation, to be known as the
Bank of Paoli, under the general banking law of the State of Indiana, approved
May 28, 1852, and as such used in its dealings and located in Paoli, Orange
County, Ind. The capital stock is $50,000, divided into 500 shares of $100
each. This association shall commence on the 1st day of December, 1854, and
terminate on the 1st day of December, 1874." The names of, places of
residence of, and number of shares held by each person are as follows:
Z. W. Coffin |
20 |
Paoli |
$2,000 |
A. J. Simpson |
15 |
Paoli |
1,500 |
Cornelius White |
1 |
Paoli |
100 |
W. C. DePauw |
50 |
Salem |
5,000 |
Elijah Sabin |
177 |
New Albany |
17,700 |
J. M. Hains |
100 |
New Albany |
10,000 |
J. J. Brown |
50 |
New Albany |
5,000 |
Phillip Lindsey |
10 |
New Albany |
1,000 |
Mary A. Lindsey |
50 |
New Albany |
5,000 |
George Lyman |
10 |
New Albany |
1,000 |
Martha Friable |
10 |
Milltown |
1,000 |
Samuel Stalcup |
5 |
Valeene |
500 |
Maria J. Woodford |
2 |
Paoli |
200 |
As the years passed numerous changes were made in the officers and stockholders. In July, 1856, the officers were as follows: J. M. Hains, President; A. M. Black, Cashier; Z. W. Coffin, Teller; J. M. Hains, A. M. Black, C. White, Jacob Hungary and M. C. Kerr, Directors. Among the new stockholders were M. C. Kerr, A. M. Black, R. S. and Libeas Frisbie, Jacob Hungary, P. S. Kentner, S. H. Owen, W. T. Otto, C. A. Reineking, W. A. Wininger, Esther Walker and J. G. Williamson. The following is the financial statement of the bank for the six months preceding the first Monday of July, 1857:
RESOURCES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bills receivable |
|
|
$81,939.27 |
State bonds |
|
|
72,000.00 |
State bonds on hand |
|
|
7,000.00 |
Furniture |
|
|
1,002.27 |
Profit and loss |
|
|
91.00 |
Expense |
|
|
977.49 |
Due from banks and bankers |
|
|
62,994.57 |
Cash - |
gold |
$7,150.00 |
|
|
Silver |
4,198.43 |
|
|
Bank notes |
11,859.00 |
238,207.43 |
|
Total |
|
$249,282.03 |
|
|
|
|
LIABILITIES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital stock |
|
|
$50,000.00 |
Circulation |
|
|
59,959.00 |
Discount of State bonds |
|
|
5,527.00 |
Deposits on certificates |
|
$67,422.82 |
|
Deposits casual |
|
13,151.47 |
80,574.29 |
Banks and bankers |
|
|
43,778.00 |
Surplus fund |
|
|
602.87 |
Interest |
|
|
1,452.10 |
Discount |
|
|
1,449.30 |
Discount and exchange |
|
|
4,550.28 |
Premium |
|
|
1,339.69 |
|
Total |
|
$249,232.08 |
This statement represents the usual condition of the bank. John C. Albert gradually secured the stock until he owned a controlling interest. He steadily assumed the liabilities also, paying its debts and buying its stock, until the institution belonged to him. The issues continued to circulate at par, during and long after the war, indeed until after the expiration of the charter, December 1, 1874. Every dollar was redeemed, but the vicissitudes through which the bank went, the efforts made by the proprietor to meet his obligations and successfully compete with the National banking system, would have disheartened the majority of men, It wound up its business soon after the charter expired, having redeemed all its obligations. Since then Paoli has had no bank.
THE FIRST INCORPORATION OF PAOLI
In May, 1840, in accordance with the provisions of the act of February 17. 1838. relating to the incorporation of towns, Leonard Green, A. J. Simpson and others petitioned the County Board to order an election to decide the question of whether Paoli should be incorporated. This was done and the election which occurred May 30, 1840, was in favor of investing the town with municipal powers. The first Trustees were Zachariah Moorman, Arthur J. Simpson, Hiram Braxtan, Abraham Wolfington and Thomas J. Throop. Hiram Braxtan was elected President of the Board, and T. J. Throop, Clerk. In subsequent meetings a full series of town ordinances was adopted. One imposed a tax upon dogs, and another prohibited the sale of playing cards. After about a year the municipal government was abandoned by mutual consent. W. H. Hudelson says a tall wagon-maker of the town, now a resident of Indiananapolis, attacked Braxtan, the President of the Board, for some fine imposed, and gave him a severe beating, which act caused the total relinquishment of the town government.
THE SECOND INCORPORATION OF PAOLI
On the 20th of July, 1869, a meeting of the citizens of Paoli was held at the court house to take steps to incorporate the town. A. J. Simpson was called to the chair and H. H. Polson and A. J. Rhodes appointed Secretaries. Several speeches were made all favoring the project. W. J.Hollingsworth, J. M. Andrew and J. W. Payne were appointed a Committee to survey the town, ascertain its population and otherwise comply with the necessary legal requirements. The Committee reported the following for incorporation: "Beginning on the meridian line at the northeast of Section 1, Township 1 north, Range 1 west, thence north 60 rods, thence west through Section 30, Township 2 north, Range 1 west, 320 rods to the line dividing Sections 35 and 36, thence south 60 rods to the line dividing Sections 36, Township 2 north, Range 1 west, thence south on said line to Lick Creek, thence up the same to the southwest corner of Lot 226, thence east to the Meridian line, thence north to the place of beginning." This was the third official survey of the town, the first having been made by the County Agent in 1816, and the second by John Frazer in 1861-62. It was found at this time, 1869, that Paoli had a population of 584. An election to determine the question of incorporation was ordered held on the 25th of September, 1809, and although there was considerable opposition, the result was favorable by a fair majority, and in December the town was duly declared incorporated by the County Board. The following were the first officers elected: Luke B. Cogswell, Thomas Ireland and Robert King, Trustees; T. B. Buskirk, Clerk; B. D. Riley, Treasurer; Jeremiah Hobson, Marshal; Hiram Lindley, Assessor. The first meeting of the Town Board was held at the office of T. B. Buskirk. January 22, 1870 and Robert King was elected President of the Board. The first act was the adoption of a long series of town ordinances, similar to those of other towns. These ordinances were reported January 29, 1870 at which time they were discussed and adopted. After this, from time to time, other and sundry rules and regulations were also adopted.
ADDITIONAL ACTS OF THE TOWN BOARD
On the 7th of April, 1870, A. J. Rhodes, H. H. Polson and A. Noblitt were elected School Trustees. By April 30 nine arrests had been made by the Marshal, and the Treasurer reported the receipt of $43.80 for licenses, of which $4.50 had been expended. The officers elected in May, 1870, were: Thomas Ireland, W. K. Andrew and Hiram Lindley, Trustees; Joseph Cox, Clerk; Jeremiah Hobson, Assessor; John Jones, Marshal; B. D. Riley, Treasurer. Joseph Cox was appointed Town Attorney, and John C. Albert, Street Commissioner. The School Trustees appointed as above stated, not having qualified, A. J. Rhodes, L. B. Cogswell and Lewis S. Bowles were appointed. The attorney was directed to procure a corporate seal with the words, "Paoli Corporation Seal, Indiana." A tax of 20 cents on each $100 valuation, and 50 cents on each poll was ordered ]evied for 1870, but this was soon repealed, 20 cents on each $100 valuation, and 25 cents on each poll being substituted. At this time the meetings of the Town Board were held at the office of Joseph Cox. In April, 1871, J. C . Albert, Street Commissioner, reported receipts $186.90, and expenses $196.56. In May John Jones, Marshal, reported fifty-two arrests for the year. The Assessor's report showed a levy of $138.824 on personal property: there were seventy-seven polls; $42 on male dogs; $2 on female dogs. The School Trustees reported on hand about $1,100. besides $1,000 from the sale of the seminary.
SCHOOL BONDS, OTHER OFFICERS, ETC.
At the meeting of May 6, 1871,the School Trustees recommended the building of a schoolhouse which should cost about $10,000. They had on hand about $2,100, and advised the sale of $8,000 worth of corporate bonds to cover the cost. The Town Board carefully considered the matter, and finally made the following order: "Be it ordered by the Board of Trustees of the Town of Paoli that there be issued bonds with proper coupons thereto attached to the amount of $8,000, $4,000 of said bonds to be issued as soon as can be done conveniently, bearing ten per cent interest per annum from the date of sale of said bonds until paid, said interest to be paid annually, for the purpose of building a schoolhouse for the use of the tizens of said town; the said bonds to be issued in bills of $100 each, to run for five years, but redeemable sooner at the pleasure of the Board of Trustees; the other $4,000 of bonds to be issued at such time or times as the Board of Trustees may deem proper on the above terms, but to run eight years, and be redeemable sooner at the pleasure of said Trustees." In accordance with this order work on the project was begun. The town officers elected May, 1871, were: Thomas Ireland, W. R. Andrew and Hiram Lindley, Trustees; J. Hobson, Marshal and Assessor; John W. Payne, Clerk; B. D. Riley, Treasurer. The Assessor exhibited the following assessment: Value of total personal property, $138,884.77; value of total real property. $166,532. In addition to the usual tax 20 cents on each $100 valuation and 25 cents on each poll were ordered levied for school purposes. J. Hobson became Street Commissioner in 1871. The Treasurer reported for the fiscal year 1870-71: receipts, $329.45; expenses, $284.91. The order for a seal was revoked, and a new one issued in June, 1871. In August the School Trustees reported that they had advertised for bids for the construction of a schoolhouse, and in response had received three, which were opened and examined July 15, and the contract was awarded to John A. Mickey, the lowest responsible bidder, for $13,900, or $3,900 more than was expected. The School Trustees, therefore, asked the approval of the Town Trustees, and that an additional $4,000 of bonds might be issued, which requests were complied with. The officers for 1872-73 were: W.K. Andrews, Thomas Ireland and Hiram Lindley, Trustees; B. D. Riley, Treasurer; Jeremiah Hobson, Marshal; J. W. Payne, Clerk. The receipts for 1871-72 were $810.09, and the expenditures $586.67; receipts from the sale of $4,000 worth of school bonds, $3,814. The tax for schoolhouse purposes was raised to 50 cents on each $100 valuation, and $1 on each poll. On the 2d of August, 1871, an additional $4,000 worth of bonds were ordered sold. In June, 1872, it was found that of the $12,000 of town bonds issued $7,500 remained on hand unsold. These were destroyed by order of the Board, and $7,500 bonds of the denomination of $500 each, bearing ten per cent interest, payable semi-annually, $1,500 payable in seven years, $3,000 payable in ten years, and $3,000 payable in twelve years, were ordered issued and sold to defray the expense of building the schoolhouse. Benjamin Stinson had negotiated the sale of the former bonds. Cogswell, Bowles and Rhodes were re-elected School Trustees for two years.
MORE OF THE BONDS, THE STREETS, ETC.
The first street opened was along the south side of Lot 241. In August, 1872, the School Trustees asked for the issue and sale of $4,000 additional of town bonds, which was done by the Town Trustees in denomination of $500 each with 10 per cent interest, payable semi-annually, the bonds to run twelve years. In April, 1873, Bowles, Rhodes and Cogswell were re-elected School Trustees. The receipts for 1872-73 were $1,156.23, and the expenses $1,038.21. Andrews, Ireland and Lindley were re-elected Trustees for 1873-74. Thomas Stalcup, Marshal and Street Commissioner; John W. Payne, Town Attorney; J. Hobson, Assessor; J. W. Payne, Clerk; B. D. Riley, Treasurer. In July, 1873, the town ordinances were revised, many important changes being made. In April, 1874, L. B. Cogswell was elected his own successor as School Trustee for three years. In 1874-75 Thomas Hunt, W. K. Andrew and James H. Sherrod became Town Trustees; B. D. Riley, Treasurer; J. W. Payne. Clerk and Attorney; Thomas Stalcup. Marshal, Assessor and Street Commissioner; T. B. Buskirk, School Trustee. The receipts for 1873-74 were $476.55, and the expenses $280.60. School fund receipts $1,398.38; expenses, $1,561.55. Joseph W. Comingore became Marshal, Assessor and Street Commissioner in June, 1874. In 1875-76 the Trustees were Thomas Hunt, J. F. Stucker and W. K. Andrew; Clerk and Attorney, J. W. Payne; School Trustee, L. S. Bowles; Treasurer, J. C. Albert; Assessor, etc. J. W. Comigore. The number of polls in May, 1875, was ninety-nine. The receipts for 1874-75 were $2,053.84, and the expenses $2,114.87. The officers of 1876-77 were Hunt, Stucker and Andrew, Trustees; John L. Megenity, Treasurer; J. W. Payne, Clerk; W. J. Hackett, Assessor, Marshal and Street Commissioner. Thomas L. Brown was elected School Trustee, in June, 1876, for three years. The receipts for 1875-76 were $2,558.98; expenses $2,439.71. In September, 1876, the Town Board ordered the issue of $4,000 of bonds to take the place of those then falling due which had been issued in 1871 to be used in building the schoolhouse. The new bonds were to be of the denomination of $100 each payable in five years with 10 per cent interest. These bonds were issued and sold, and the first $4,000 issued of the old ones were taken up. In April, 1877, the office of Assessor was abolished. In 1877-78 the officers were Thomas Hunt, Christian Pro and Abraham Noblitt, Trustees; J. L. Megenity, Treasurer; J. W. Payne, Clerk and Attorney; W. J. Hackett, Marshal and Street Commissioner; W. F. Osborn, School Trustee for three years. The receipts for 1876-7 were $1,855.78 and the expenses $1,801.73. In January, 1878, B. E. Bushaw succeeded Hackett as Marshal and Street Commissioner, and William H. Martin succeeded J. W. Payne as Clerk and Attorney.
THE BONDS REFUNDED; OFFICERS, ETC.
In 1878 the sale of 6 per cent bonds was begun to obtain means to redeem those bearing 10 per cent interest and then falling due. Bonds worth $8,000 were accordingly issued, in denominations of $50 and $100 each, bearing 6 per cent interest, payable semi-annually, the bonds to run five years, but to be paid after one year, at the option of the Town Trustees, and to bear date May 15, 1878. The officers of 1878-79 were: J. M. Andrew, H. E. Wells and J. T. Stout. Trustees; W. H. Martin, Clerk and Attorney; Elisha Braxtan, Assessor (the office having been revived); Marshal and Street Commissioner. L. S. Bowles was elected his own successor as School Trustee. The officers for 1879-80 were: Andrew, Stout and Wells. Trustees; E. 0. Wilson, Clerk and Attorney; Thomas Hunt, Treasurer; S. E. Dayhuff, Marshal and Street Commissioner; B. D. Riley. School Trustee. In July, 1879, the amount of 6 per cent bonds to refund those outstanding drawing 10 per cent interest was fixed at $10,000, bonds to be of the denominations of from $50 to $500, payable in ten years, interest payable semi-annually, bonds payable after five years, at the option of the Town Board. These bonds were sold and the proceeds used in redeeming the others as they fell due. In November, 1879. a revision of the town ordinances occurred. The officers of 1880-81 were: Stout, Wells and Andrew, Trustees; Abraham Noblitt, Clerk and Attorney ; W. M. Bagerly, Marshal and Street Commissioner; Thomas Hunt, Treasurer. W. H. Martin became Clerk and Attorney in December, 1880. G. W. Beswick became Marshal, etc., in February. 1881. The officers of 1881-82 were: Andrew, Stont and Wells, Trustees; E. C. Simpson, Clerk and Attorney; Thomas Hunt, Treasurer; Jacob Snider, Marshal. etc. U. H. Hon, L. S. Lindley and J. W. Hollingsworth were appointed a Board of Health. The officers of 1882-83 were: John L. Megenity, Benjamin M. Lingle and John T. Stout, Trustees; Thomas Hunt, Treasurer; W. J. Hackett. Marshal; B. D. Riley, L. S. Bowles and W. F. Osborn, School Trustees; E. C. Simpson, Clerk; A. J. Rhodes, School Trustee, June, 1882. In July Pendleton Brown became Marshal. The officers of 1883-84 were: Stout, Andrew and Megenity, Trustees; James F. Collins, Clerk; Thomas Hunt, Treasurer; Pendleton Brown, Marshal; W. F. Osborn was elected to succeed himself as School Trustee. In July, 1883, town bonds to the amount of $4,300 were ordered issued and sold to get means to redeem old bonds of that amount which came due May 15, 1883. The new bonds were $100 each, payable in five years. and bearing 6 per cent interest, payable semiannually. William Farrell became Town Attorney in February, 1884. The officers of 1884-85 were: Megenity, Andrew and Stout, Trustees; W. J. Hackett, Marshal: H. F. Davidson, Clerk; Thomas Hunt, Treasurer. The receipts for the fiscal year 1883-84 were $7,080.64, and expenses were $6,359.05.
THE SECRET SOCIETIES
Paoli Lodge, No. 119, A. F. & A. M. was established in Paoli, in
February, 1850, a dispensation having been granted Hugh C. Wible, John Baker
and H. T. Moxley, by the Grand Lodge to work until a charter could be prepared
and forwarded. Within a short time George Faucett, S. D. McCann, J. T. Throop.
W. T. Osborn and G. W. Coffin were duly initiated, and invested with Masonic
dignity. The first meeting of the lodge was held on the 13th of February, 1850,
and the first initiation - that of John T. Throop - occurred May 24, 1850. The
first officers were: Hugh C. Wible, W. M.; John Baker, S. W.; H. T. Moxley, J.
W.; and the remaining officers were elected as follows after they had been
initiated; J. T. Throop. S. D.; W. T. Osborn, J. D; George Faucett, Treasurer;
S. D. McCann, Secretary; G. W. Coffin, Tiler. The lodge was weak at first but
gradually beceme strong as the membership increased. The charter was received
in June, 1851, and bore the date May 30, 1851. The lodge has owned no hall of
its own, but has a small property saved, and at present meets in the second
story of the Riley Block, on the south side of the square. Their hall is
tastefully arranged. The present officers are: Christian Pro, W. M.; B. D.
Riley, S. W.; William T. Hicks, J. W.; W. J. Throop, S. D.; W. H. Harrison, J.
D.; Abraham Noblitt, Secretary. The present membership is large.
The early records of the Odd Fellows' Lodge at Paoli are missing. From the
charter it is learned that that instrument was granted by the Grand Lodge upon
the application of John A. Lane, George Clark, W. C. R. Kemp, John Baker and
Thomas W. Knox. It is stated that John A. Lane was the first Noble Grand. It is
probable that the lodge worked under a dispensation at first, and if so was
established in 1852. The charter bears date March 16, 1853, and the name,
Reliance Lodge, No. 130, was adopted. The organization was fairly prosperous
during its early existence, but soon after the war came on seems to have had a
hiatus for about two years, owing to internal troubles. At the close of the war
the meetings were fully revived, and have continued regularly until the
present. The leaders of the lodge in 1855, are said to have been John A. Lane,
John Frazer and George Clark. The lodge owns no hall, but meets in a rented
one, in the Riley Block. It has property of some value saved from time. The
present offcers are as follows: M. S. Mavity, N. G.; B. M. Lingle, V. G.;
George A. Buskirk, Secretary; John L. Megenity, Treasurer; A. J. Rhodes,
Warden; J. H. McCarthy, Guard; William Farrell, Conductor; B. D. Riley, Host;
William Farrell, M. S. Mavity and Jacob Schneider, Trustees. The present
membership is about thirty-five.
In early years the Washingtonians and the Sons of Temperance had organizations
in the town, and were largely attended. They continued several years, and did
much good in removing the prevailing impression that alcohol was an
indispensible drink. These organizations were effected during the thirties, and
were revived during the forties and fifties. In 1868 Paoli Lodge, No. 563, I.
0. G. T., was instituted, and for several years flourished with a good
membership. On the 12th of July, 1884, Williamson Post, Grand Army of the
Republic, was organized at Paoli, with a charter membership of twenty-three.
The officers were installed by Spicely Lodge of Orleans, and was named for Dr.
Williamson, who had resided for a short time at Paoli. He was mortally wounded
at Champion Hills, while at his post. The lodge gives promise of prosperity.
THE NEWSPAPERS OF THE COUNTY SEAT
The first newspaper published in Paoli, or Orange County, made its appearance on the 5th of May, 1832, and was called "The Paoli Times." It was a small sheet, Democratic in politics, subscription price, $1.75 per year, and was edited by William A. Bowles. After about a year and a half of irregular appearance, the issue was discontinued. About the 1st of January, 1835, the Second paper was started at Paoli by Leonard Green, and was called the Indiana Patriot. It, also, was an insignificant sheet, compared with the present newspapers; was neutral or independeat in politics, and cost $2 per annum. How long it was issued, is uncertain, though probably about two years. In April, 1838, the third attempt was made to permanently establish a paper in Paoli. R. McGrew began issuing a Democratic paper called the Torch Light, and charged $2 per year subscription. This paper died without hope of resurrection within a year. The fourth attempt to found a permanent paper at the county seat was highly successful.
THE TRUE AMERICAN
On Monday, the 27th of May, 1839, the first number of the True American was issued by Henry Comingore. It was a five-column folio, subscription price, $2 per year, and made the following announcement concerning its politics: "Our politics, both of a general and local nature, shall be strictly Democratic, believing the people to be the sovereigns in National as well as State Governments. The doctrines laid down by the illustrious Jefferson, the father of Democracy in this Republic, and the universal friend of mankind, shall be carefully maintained in our paper." D. C. Dodds was publisher. The second issue was June 10. In September the paper was changed to a six-column folio, and at this time J. Mayne became connected with Mr. Comingore in a subordinate capacity. The issue at this time and later was somewhat irregular. In 1840 the publishers of the True American commenced issuing a small sheet called The Mirror. This was filled with miscellaneous literature, and was sold in connection with the American for 50 cents per year. It was not continued long. The subscription price of the American was soon dropped to $1.50 per year, but still the editor had all he could do to make both ends meet. In August, 1840, George McKay became associated with Mr. Comingore, but about six months later retired. In the spring of 1841 the name was slightly changed, becoming the True American and Agricultural Register. A fall page was devoted wholly to matters of agriculture, and was made valuable to farmers in order to receive their support. The subscription list improved for a time, but the paper was again diminished to live columns, but again enlarged in December, 1841. It was during this period that the first agricultural society in the county was organized, chiefly through the influence of Mr. Comingore. In 1842 the paper was again diminished in size, and repeated calls came from the editor for produce on subscription. In 1844 J. M. Marts became associated with Mr. Comingore, and in 1845 the two started the Bedford Sun, at Bedford, of which James Hughes was established as editor. The True American was issued until January, 1846, when it was discontinued, the editor going to Jasper, where he founded a paper. While he was gone two short-lived papers made their appearance at Paoli-the Telegraph and the Battery-neither of which lived long. Cox & Payne were connected with the Telegraph and Riley & Baker with the Battery.
THE AMERICAN EAGLE
On the 29th of September, 1848, Mr. Comingore having returned to Paoli, issued the first copy of The American Eagle, a six-column folio newspaper, Democratic in politics of course, subscription price $1.50 per year. In June, 1854, D. 0. Comingore was associated with H. Comingore in the publication of the paper, but his name disappears from the issues in January, 1856. In 1856, for a time, three or four columns of the paper were set in German. This was done by the editor to catch the German subscription, mainly in Dubois County. The issue of the paper continued until September, 1861, and was then abandoned until May, 1862, and then issued until July, 1862, and then abandoned again. It made its appearance in March, 1863, greatly reduced in size, but was suspended in August, and so remained until August, 1865, when it again came out as bright as ever. It was issued until 1874, and was then permanently abandoned, after having been issued about twenty-five years by the veteran editor, Henry Comingore; or counting the True Amenican as the real commencement of the issue, Mr. Comingore conducted the sheet from 1839 to 1874, a period of about thirty-five years. It is not too much to say that in this long period no man in the county did more for the Democratic party than Mr. Comingore. He took a strong party position and maintained it to the last. During the latter part of the war he displeased the ultra element of his party by favoring the rapid enlistment of men in hopes of soon quelling the Rebellion. For this he was called by some a "weak-kneed Democrat," but time vindicated his judgment. Again, in the Greeley movement he refused, as he stated, to leave his party and political principles and "eat crow," and for this was denounced by many of his party.
THE UNION AND THE NEWS
In 1868 a Republican newspaper called the Orange County Union, was started at Paoli, the editor being Mr. Knapp. The material had been purchased by Mr. Knapp mainly in Cincinnati, the funds being furnished or rather subscribed in shares of $10 each, by from thirty to fifty leading Republicans of the county. who felt the need of, and were determined to have a party organ. Sufficient funds to pay for the outfit were not raised, and a mortgage was executed upon the office in favor of the Cincinnati Type Foundry. The sheet was conducted with fair success until early in 1872, when the editor, who had been appointed Postmaster of Paoli, suddenly decamped, having first, by fraudulent postal orders on other offices made payable to himself, managed to rob the Postoffice Department of several hundred dollars which he collected on his departure from this portion of the State. The mortgage on the office was foreclosed, and the material was sold at Sheriff's sale to Thomas B. Buskirk, a promising young lawyer of the town, who began the issue of a bright Democratic paper called the Paoli News. Mr. Buskirk owned and conducted the paper from July 31, 1872, until November, 1879, and for a time had his father, John B. Buskirk as an associate. The paper during this management, secured a large circulation, and had a valuable job and advertising patronage. It was first a folio; then a quarto, then a folio, subscription $1.50 per annum. At the last date above named the office was sold to Hon. John L. Megenity who is yet its owner and editor. It has a comfortable circulation, and a good job and advertising patronage and is the organ of the Democracy of the county.
THE REPUBLICAN
The old American Eagle became defunct in 1874, and the following year, with the same office and material, J. W. Comingore began the issue of the Paoli Republican, a seven-column folio weekly newspaper. The paper was fairly prosperous, and was conducted by Mr. Comingore until November, 1878, when the entire office, good-will, etc., were purchased by Joseph P. Throop and Stephen Collier. The material belonged to Henry Comingore and was not sold. Throop & Collier bought the office material of the Orleans paper, and thus equipped, continued the issue of the Republican. In 1879, Collier sold his interest to Throop, who is now sole owner, editor and manager. At the time of purchase by Mr. Throop, the office was conducted mainly, if not exclusively in issuing the paper, but soon a valuable job and advertising patronage was secured, and is maintained until the present. The Republican is the organ of the county Republicans, though the Examiner of Orleans, takes a portion of this honor.
THE GREENBACK ADVOCATE
In 1876 Henry Comingore began the issue of The Greenback Advocate, the name signifying in what interest the paper was founded and conducted. A fair patronage in all departments was secured, but at the close of the second volume the issue was abandoned. The Normal School has for some time issued a small sheet in the interests of that institution and education in general.
PRESENT BUSINESS INTERESTS
Dry Goods - A. J. Rhodes, W. F. Osborn, J. M. Andrew, Stout Brothers. These firms also have groceries, boots and shoes, notions, etc. Drugs - L. S. Bowles, Gabbert & Hudelson, J. H. Sherrod. Furniture - B. D. Riley & Son, John R. Simpson & Sons. Grocers - E. H. McVey, King & Bro., Robert White, Braxtan Bros. Harness - B. M. Lingle. Hardware - B. D. Riley & Son. Milliners - Mrs. Rachel Williams, Boring Sisters, Mrs. L. E. King, Miss Ellen Dayhuff. Barbers - John V. Noblitt, William McCarthy. Wagon and Blacksmith Shops - Dickey & Stout, Alfred McVey and Jacob Schneider. Contractor - William Johnson. Lumber Yard - A. J. Rhodes. Shoemakers - Sebastian Kuri, W. F. Hoppe, A. H. Love. Marble Shop - Love & Carroll. Livery - Elisha Braxtan, A. J. Rhodes, T. J. Hunt. Photographer - George Coquilette. Agricultural Implements - B. D. Riley & Son, Stout Bros. Jeweler - J. W. Hollingsworth. Saloons - G. W. Felkner. Tailors - W. L. Worrell, Mr. Swallow. Grist-mill - King & Stucker. Carding mill - King & Stucker. Saw-mills - John R. Simpson, Cox Brothers. Newspapers - Paoli News, Hon. J. L. Megenity, editor; Paoli Republican, Joseph P. Throop, editor. Hotels - Sherrod House, Dayhuff House, Rhodes House, Hunt House. Lawyers - T. B. Buskirk, M. S. Mavity, William Farrell, Abraham Noblitt, William Throop, Joseph P. Throop, George A. Buskirk, J. L. Megenity. Physicians - U. H. Hon, Laban Lindley, L. S. Bowles, J. H. Sherrod. Dentists - B. T. Radcliff, C. W. Pinnick. Restaurant - William Bagley.
TOWN OF ORLEANS
The town of Orleans, in Orleans Township, claims the distinction of being the oldest laid-out town in Orange County. The original plat of the town was recorded at Salem, Ind., while Orange was a part of Washington County. and Indiana yet a Territory. It was dated March 11, 1815, and signed by William McFarland and Samuel Lewis as owners of the land, and by Samuel Alexander as Surveyor. This plat shows the original town to have six streets running east and west, named Vincennes, Main, General Coffee, Washington, Jackson and Wayne, and seven running north and south, named Cherry, Kerr, Alexander, Sugar, Congress, Lemon and Lindley. There were forty-eight full squares of eight lots each and one tier of eight half squares, on the north side, making in all 416 lots. The following is a copy of the record:
Plan of the town of Orleans, Indiana Territory, as laid out within the county of Washington, upon the southwest quarter of Section 30, of Township 3 north, of the base line in Range 1 east, of the second principal meridian line, of the lands directed to be sold at Jeffersonville. References: Each lot in the town of Orleans, Indiana Territory, is 80 x 160 feet, and each street 60 feet wide, and each alley 10 feet wide. Congress Square is composed of Lots Nos. 167, 168, 169, 170, 195, 196, 197 and 198 to remain for the purpose of erecting any building for county, Territory or State, or deemed necessary by citizens of the town. The streets and alleys to remain as open and common highways forever, excepting where they pass within the limits of Congress Square where they become a part. No part of Congress Square ever to be appropriated as a burying-ground. March 11, 1815.
Test |
SAMUEL ALEXANDER |
WILLIAM McFARLAND. |
|
Surveyor. |
SAMUEL LEWIS. |
Two months before this time, on the 8th of January, Gen. Jackson had achieved his famous victory over the British at New Orleans, and in honor of that event the patriotic founders and pioneers of the new town christened it Orleans. The first house on the present site of the town is said to have been built by Samuel Lewis, and as saw-mills had not yet found their way to this frontier, it was made of logs. It was used as a tavern for several years, where the wants of weary pilgrims to this Western World could be supplied, and where at night before the blazing fire they were beguiled with marvelous tales of the new country’s wonders and advantages. Soon after this came John Steers, who launched the first commercial bark on this ocean wilderness. And a tiny craft it was, too. Built of logs and stocked with the pioneer’s necessities, and gaudy notions to attract the occasional savages that yet lingered reluctant to quit their early hunting ground, what a contrast this first store of Orleans presents to those of the present day. It is said that the first blacksmith was William Redfield, who came among the earliest settlers and followed his trade in all its branches, from gun-mending to horse-shoeing. The first grave at Orleans was dug in’ 1816, for a man named Festerman, a German, whom the icy hand of death had rudely seized. The reign of Hymen extends equally to the remote dwellers on the frontier and to the luxurious resident of the city. The first matrimonial act in the infant town was that of John B. Moyer and a Miss Misenhamer, in the year 1816, and it was an undoubted case of "love in a cottage." The first schoolhouse was a log one, built it is said, in 1823, and Mr. S. B. A. Carter was the first teacher. In this house and under this instruction many of the children were educated in the primitive manner of the time, and they afterward came to be among the best and influential citizens of their community.
GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
In 1817 Mr. Lewis built a small brick house and Messrs. Hardin & Kimbley erected the first frame in 1822. Being situated in a happy and fertile district the new town grew rapidly, and for a time bid fair to be one of the principal places in southern Indiana. Merchants came with new stores and new goods, mechanics brought their skill and industry, and the professions had here their early representatives. Two men who went far toward building up the commercial interests of the town were Benjamin and Ezekiel Blackwell, two brothers, that were long among the foremost men here. As early as 1823 they were actively engaged in merchandising. William McLane conducted an early store. How different was the method of carrying on business in that day from the ways of the present. Then the hunter or farmer brought in his peltry or products of the soil, and received in exchange for them the merchant’s wares. Each merchant bought all kinds of produce, and when sufficient was received they were hauled by wagon to Louisville. Now the producers sell their products to men who make a specialty of a particular kind, and get cash in return. They then go to stores and buy for cash what they want, where only that article is kept. In 1823 Benjamin Webb was doing quite an extensive mercantile trade, and in 1827 Kimbley & Moyer and Burton Sutherland were in business, the latter having one of the old-time "groceries" that bring many pleasing recollections to life’s gray-haired veterans, who still haunt their boyhood’s scenes and dwell with emphasis on the bygone sobriety of mankind. Another of these groceries was kept by Freeman Wright, from 1829 to 1831, and perhaps longer. Others who engaged in keeping these stores, where liquor was the order of the day, were Abner and Jeremiah Wilson and Samuel Hogen, in 1832, Thomas Busick in 1840 and several years prior, James Ware in 1839 and before, and William Teal in that year. In 1840 were Gabriel P. Busick and William Field, Thomas B. C. Taylor in 1844, and L. J. Kimbley in 1846. A considerable excitement was created in 1848, when one of the Busick men applied to the County Commissioners for a license. Several of the citizens of Orleans remonstrated, but after a hot contest a license was finally granted. Other merchants have been Moyer & Hasler, 1828-29; Henry Lingle, 1831; Charles Glover. 1834; Fulton & Bradley, 1838; Bradley & Allen, 1842; J. C. Busick, 1842; J. &. J. B. Moyer, 1839; B. & J. B. Webb, 1839-40, and many others of prominence, among whom may be mentioned Col. William McLane, who afterward went to Lawrence County and became one of its foremost merchants; the firm of Walker & Richards, that succeeded Bradley & Allen, about the year 1854; Lynch Brooks and John G. Huff.
MILLS OF ORLEANS
Samuel Lynd is said to have built the first mill in Orleans about the year 1830. It was an old style horse-mill, and was used for some time. He was instrumental in the erection of the first steam-mill, although he was not the entire owner. This continued to do the business for several years, and was superseded by the present mill which was built about 1857 or 1858 by Eli Wright & Brothers, who, after operating it for six or seven years, sold out to Mr. John Chenoweth, the present owner and proprietor. He has frequently repaired and remodeled it so that it is now one of the best mills in the country, and equipped with all necessary modern machinery. About ten years ago a large steam grist and sawmill was built by Mr. Newton Turley. This did a very extensive business in both grinding and sawing, and was considered one of the model mills in southern Indiana. It was totally destroyed by fire in 1883, and has not since been rebuilt.
PRESENT BUSINESS MEN
The following is a full list of the different persons and firms with their respective businesses now in Orleans, and will give a tolerably accurate idea of the present commercial status of the town: W. L. Reed, dry goods and hardware; John D. Carter, dry goods and notions; Walker & Son, dry goods, boots and shoes, and groceries; J. B. Gifford, dry goods and groceries; C. A. Conder, J. T. King & Co. and T. R. Webb, groceries; John Gonichio, restaurant and confectionery; J. H. Bowles and David Hardman, drugs; Mrs. L. C. Alers and Miss Lizzie Webb, milliners; Cox & Taylor and John Oches, furniture; Merriman & Mallory, carriages and agricultural implements; S. J. Glover, wagon-maker; John Ficklin, William Carter and Miller Girkin, blacksmiths; Reynolds & Co., sawmill; John Chenoweth, grist-mill and wool-carding; Salyards & Son and Albertson & Nugent, marble dealers; J. C. Hattabaugh, Charles H. Keeth and Henry Heil, boots and shoes; Oliver Turley, harness and saddles; J. H. Steers, Union Hotel; W. H. Graves, Phoenix Hotel and livery; J. Stanley, Stanley House; Newton Turley, dealer in general produce; Love Brothers, livery; W. F. Brewer, jeweler; J. Henson and M. A. Ashley, barbers; E. D. Laughlin, R. W. Lingle, B. J. Hon and May, physicians; J. J. Lingle and Thomas G. Mahan, attorneys; Emmett Harris, editor of Examiner.
INCORPORATION
Orleans was incorporated as early as the year 1829, and Ezekiel Blackwell was first President of the Board of Trustees. The town was too small, however, to support these municipal expenses, and all effort at maintaining its incorporation was soon abandoned. It is said that at this time the town contained only about thirty-five houses. A second incorporation was effected in the fall of 1865, the election to decide the question of corporation or no corporation being on the 3d of October in that year, with David L. Barker, John Laswell and W. B. McDonald Judge and Inspectors. There were seventy-five votes cast in all, sixty-one for and fourteen against incorporating. On the 4th of December following the Board of County Commissioners declared it duly incorporated, and on the 22d of the same month an election was held for officers. This resulted in electing the following persons as Trustees for the First, Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Wards respectively: A. W. Gray, John Vestal, Henry Lingle, Samuel H. Glenn and Elbert Jeter. David L. Barker was elected Clerk and Treasurer, and Thomas N. Collins, Marshal and Assessor. Immediately after this the Trustees met and were sworn by James W. Webb, a Notary Public, and organized by electing Samuel H. Glenn President of the Board. They then adjourned until December 29, at which time they met and passed several important ordinances, the first one of which was "for protecting public morality, order and safety;" the second "for regulating and protecting streets, alleys, sidewalks, shade trees, etc.;" the third "regulating licenses and providing a penalty for the violation thereof." Forty printed copies of these were ordered, and on January 15, 1866, the Board met to inspect these copies and the record. The meetings of this first Board were held in the shop of David L. Barker. The first annual election was held May 8, 1866, with the following result: Trustees, Thomas Elrod, John Vestal, Henry Lingle, S. H. Glenn and G. H. Hon; Clerk and Treasurer, David L. Barker; Marshal and Assessor, Samuel Lingle. Marshal Collins reported having received $34 on license, and the Treasurer reported having received $30, and paid out $69.15, leaving the town in debt to him the sum of $39.15. At the first meeting of the new Board, May 14, 1866, a tax of 25 cents on the $100 and 25 cents on each poll was ordered to be levied and collected "for the purpose of building a lock-up, and other contingent expenses during the ensuing year." The next record of a Board meeting was in October following, when the Marshal reported $91.02 his collections, and the Treasurer was instructed to promptly collect all unpaid taxes, and to "defend in court the suit appealed by Joseph Kauffman from the Justice of the Peace, and if necessary to employ an attorney for the same." At the election in 1867 the same officers were re-elected, excepting S. B. A. Conder in place of Marshal Lingle. About this time a lethargy fell over the municipality, and for a time it seemed that the town organization was about to expire. This continued until 1871, when the next election after the one just spoken of occurred. At that time Jacob H. Stephens, John Chenoweth, William C. R. Kemp, Thomas D. Lindsey and Jeptha S. Jeter were chosen Trustees. John J. Lingle, Clerk and Treasurer, and Charles L. Freeman. Marshal and Assessor. This Board met at the shop of Jeter & Irwin, electing William C. R. Kemp, President F. A. Sears, A. F. Allen and S. B. A. Conder were appointed as School Trustees, but Allen declining, H. Lingle was appointed in his place. In April, 1873, the town was re-districted into three wards instead of five, as before, and each Trustee thereafter elected was to receive 25 cents for each Board meeting he was in attendance. Under the new order John D. Carter, Thomas N. Taylor and Volney T. Moore were Trustees, with Taylor as President.
SCHOOLHOUSE BONDS
On February 27, 1874, it was ordained by the Board of Trustees "that there be procured fifty $100 bonds for the payment of the school building situated on the public square, principal and interest payable at Orleans, Ind. Interest at 6 per cent per annum." This building was erected in 1864 on what is known in the original plat of the town as Congress Square. It was done by a stock company, or it might almost be said, by public subscription, the cost being $9,000. It was generally considered at the time of purchase by the town to be something of a bargain a $5,000. The last of this debt was paid in 1880, amounting at that time to $1,276.41. So rapid and prompt a payment as this is a thing not often noticed in the history of towns. The time was less than six years, which would make over $1,000 yearly, counting the interest - a large sum for a town of this size to turn off each year besides its other current expenses. The present School Trustees are Thomas R. Webb, J. H. Steers and Thomas G. Mahan.
OTHER PUBLIC AFFAIRS
There are two wells in the town that are kept up by public money. One of these is at the corner of Mr. Salyard’s property in the northwest part of town, and the other is at the southeast corner of the public square. In March 1879 G. W. Sutherland was awarded the contract for putting 100 shade trees on Seminary Square for $35. The wisdom of this is manifest, for the yard already presents a beautiful and alluring scene, contrasting agreeably with the surrounding bustle of business. In June, 1882, Dr. R. W. Lingle was elected Secretary of the Board of Health, and after serving with satisfaction for one year, was re-elected by a full vote of the Board. Benton J. Hon was for several years Clerk and Treasurer, and his signature to the town records is a familiar sight on nearly every page, recording the transactions of the Board while he held that office. The present Trustees are E. W. Moore, J. J. Cox and E. J. Salyards, the first acting as President. Mr. Charles E. Allen is the efficient and accommodating Clerk.
SECRET SOCIETIES
Orleans Lodge, No. 153, was chartered a regular lodge of Free and
Accepted Masons May 25, 1853. For eleven months prior to this it had been
working under a dispensation, with John M. Riley, W. M.; John Baker, S. W., and
William Craig, J. W., but when the charter was granted, John Baker was made W.
M., William W. Manning S. W., and Thomas W. Knocks J. W. In addition to these
five gentlemen, J. B. Hamilton, Wolfe Braun, John White. J. J. Salyards and
Henry Lingle were members at the organization, making ten in all. This lodge
was at one time large and flourishing. but owing to many members moving away it
has been greatly reduced in numbers and finances. The present membership is
twenty-five, among them being the following as officers: Edwin D. Laughlin, W.
M. Jeruel Leonard, S. W.; Jacob C. Woner, J. W.: Jesse A. Irvine, Treas.;
Thomas R. Webb, Sec. The total enrollment in this lodge is 170, and of these
120 have been made Masons by it.
Orleans Lodge, No. 296, of I. 0. 0. F., was organized November 29, 1867, with
five charter members, W. C. R. Kemp, John D. Carter, S. B. A. Conder, W. F.
Cloud and N. W. Britton. Eight persons were initiated on the first night of
meeting, and from that time to the present this lodge has prospered in numbers
and finances, having initiated 108 persons in all. It owns a nice cemetery and
has $1,500 at interest W. C. R. Kemp was the first Noble Grand, that office
being now filled by J. W. Higgins. Mr. H. T. Allen is the present Vice Grand,
and W. C. R. Kemp, Permanent Secretary.
About the year 1849 an organization of the Sons of Temperance was effected, and
nearly contemporaneous with this was one of the Daughters of Temperance. These
existed for seven or eight years, and then expired, Beginning about the year
1855, the order of Good Templars had an up and down life here until 1870, but
since that year no temperance society has been in existence at Orleans. On this
account, however, it must not be concluded that it is not a temperate
community, for it is as much or more so than most towns of its size. It now has
but one saloon.
An organization of the Grand Army of the Republic was effected October 25,
1883, and was called Custer Post, No. 252. The following were the charter
members: Stephen J. Glover, W. H. Pickler, M. V. Mallory, Abel Murray, William
Brown, Thomas J. Bringle, Francis M. Johnson, Charles Sutherland, Reed C.
Moore, D. W. Lee, Allen E. Talbott, John J. Cox, Volney T. Moore, John W.
Ficklin and John Moore. Stephen J. Glover was the first Commander, Allen E.
Talbott, Sr. V. C., and John W. Ficklin, Jr. V. C. The present officers are the
same, excepting Thomas G. Mahan in place of Allen E. Talbott. In April, 1884,
the name of the Post was changed to Spicely instead of Custer. The present
membership is seventy-five, and it is in a good and healthy condition: is out
of debt, and has money in the treasury.
NEWSPAPERS AT ORLEANS
The first newspaper at Orleans was established in 1851 by Giles Smith and
John Baker, and was called the Commercial Review. It was neutral in politics
with strong Whig tendencies, Mr. Smith being the publisher, and Mr. Baker, a
man of bright intellect, the editor. These men conducted it with success until
1853 (February), when Mr. Baker resumed the practice of law.
The next enterprise of this nature was in 1854 and 1855, when W. L. Green
published the Lost River Bulletin. This, too, was of but short duration here,
for it was soon after moved to Paoli. A third effort to maintain a newspaper at
Orleans was in 1877, when the Orleans Journal was begun as an Independent
paper. Like its predecessors, it came to an untimely end after several changes
in owners. The paper now published at Orleans is the Examiner. This was
established in July, 1879, by H. J. Cooper, and has always been an ardent
supporter of Republican principles. It is what is known as a five-column
quarto, and was conducted by its founder until August, 1883. At that time it
was purchased by Emmett Harris, who has since that date increased its
circulation from 400 to 700, and improved the paper in both matter and
"make-up." After so many efforts a paper has at length been
permanently fixed as an addition to the enterprises of the town, and its
esteemed and gentlemanly editor is worthy of the support of all citizens in the
county.
PHYSICIANS AT ORLEANS
Probably the first physician at Orleans was Dr. Lynch Brooks, who came sometime in the twenties, and was for many years one of its leading citizens. Besides his practice, which was of the regular backwoods kind, he did considerable business in merchandising. Those old-time whims about "bleeding" for every ailment of humanity, and animality, too, for that matter, are gone and now considered among the things to be classed in the list of the "twin relics." Instead of the old style pocket lance with which every "doctor" was armed, and which answered every use of both cathartic and emetic, the modern "physician" comes with a fever thermometer and a bottle of quinine. That the earlier way was the easier on the patients there can be but little doubt, for then it was either get well or bleed to death - in either case getting rid of the doctor for a time. Now the feeble are not so fortunate, for by the skill of the physician they neither get well nor get sick, but that indispensable individual they have with them always. After Dr. Brooks came Drs. Prosser, Riley, Henry Lingle, Hoover, Wakefield, Charles and James Pearson, Tucker, and those of the present time who are elsewhere mentioned in this work.
THE RAILROAD
The only railroad at Orleans is the Louisville, New Albany & Chicago. This was built through the town in the winter of 1851-52, and was at that time called the New Albany & Salem Railroad. That was a time when railroads were comparatively in their infancy and ere many of the modern inventions were known that now hurry the commerce of a nation along with such impetuous velocity. The rails were of the old fashioned flat bar kind, and a trip to Louisville in a half day was then thought to be swift traveling. To secure the road at Orleans the citizens gave $40,000, all by private subscription, which, considering the time and size of the town, was a remarkably large amount. The largest donor to this sum was Benjamin Blackwell who gave $3,000. Many others gave liberally, among whom was the firm of Bradley & Allen, at that time doing the largest trade, it is said, that was ever done in the town. On account of having this railroad, Orleans is the most important town in Orange County in a business point of view. Being the only station of any consequence it is the real outlet for nearly all the produce in the county.
ORLEANS AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION
Under this name a society was organized at Orleans in 1880. It is a stock company with a membership of sixty and shares at $25 each. The objects of the organization were "to improve the breed of live stock and the quality of seed sown, to cultivate a spirit of rivalry or rather emulation among the farmers and mechanics, and to educate the people to appreciate the advantages of our goodly country and to make it blossom as the rose." Among the prominent and active founders were Benjamin F. Turley, Dr. E. D. Laughlin, Gen. W. T. Spicely, Newton Turley and John J. Lingle. The association has held four successful annual fairs, and the gross receipts for each year have been about $2,500. It is in a prosperous and flourishing condition and bids fair to be one of the lasting and beneficial institutions of the county. The present officers are: S. R. Tegarden, President; J. T. Monyhan, Vice-President; Henry T. Allen, Treasurer; Henry Reed, Secretary, and G. T. Wright, Superintendent.
NEWTON STEWART
The third town in the county, both in size and in business importance is
Newton Stewart, in the extreme south of Jackson Township near the county line,
on the northwest quarter of Section 27, Township 1 south. Range 2 west. Patoka
Creek flows by this town, and furnishes abundant water-power for the mills that
have occasion to be built there. The grist-mill now in operation is owned by
Samuel and Reuben Brown, who bought it in 1879. This is the same one built by
the Fosters in 1856, on the site of the old Lewis Allen mill. It is now valued
at about $2,000. The town was laid out April 17, 1839 by William and Henry
Stewart, at that time having sixty-eight lots, but in December, 1868,
seventy-two lots were added, and are known as Shoulder’s Addition. To their own
name the Stewarts are said to have added the name of their birthplace in
Ireland, making the full name of the town Newton Stewart. They were the first
merchants of the place, and are said to have begun about 1835 with a stock of
general merchandise. Stephen Elkins was their immediate successor, and remained
in trade for some time. As near as could be ascertained the following is a list
of the merchants who have been in the town since that time: Dr. James Dillard,
Henry Jordon, Henry Banks, John A. Wininger, Daniel Williams, Henry
Critchfield, T. N. Braxtan, Foster Bros., Stewart & Edrington, Solomon
Williams, John Foster, Wesley Shoulder, Thomas A. Fleming, Tillery & Gass,
Stout Bros., Pritchard & Cadle, Frederick Wiedeman, William Roberts, H. H.
Polson, Thomas & Burgess, Lindley & Stout, Campbell, Rhodes & Co.,
Dr. W. M. Brent, J. R. Simpson & Son, William T. Swift. At present there
are two dry goods stores, one furniture store, one drug store, one grocery
store and one blacksmith and wagon-shop by James F. Dillard.
The first physician was Dr. James Dillard, who came in 1839 and remained the
balance of his life. Others have been: Drs. Thomas Polson and Josiah Brown,
partners; Dr. J. E. V. Radcliff came in 1855 and remained for twelve years; Dr.
Edmund Byon, Dr. John Courtney, Dr. Sylvester Brown, Dr. W. M. Brent, from 1870
to the present; Dr. Emanuel Smith, from 1870 to present. Drs. James Smith,
Thomas Courtney and R. H. Hutchasom have each been located at this place for a
short time. Since the establishment of the postoffice these men have been
Postmasters: Dr. Radcliff, Isaac Harmon, Solomon Williams, Dr. Dillard,
Jeremiah Jacobs, William Roberts, H. H. Polson and E. B. Rhodes, the present
incumbent. Mails arrive twice a week from Paoli, on Mondays and Fridays.
A Masonic lodge was organized here May 23, 1871, and is known as the Newton
Stewart Lodge, No. 432. It had worked nearly a year prior to that time under a
dispensation. The first officers were: John Courtney, W. M.; Washington
Kellams, S. W.; and William Brown, J. W. These three with James B. Gass, Robert
King, James N. Marlett, Jordon C. Marlett, William Parks, Robert Parks and
James C. Stevens were the charter members. The lodge is in a flourishing
condition, and has been prosperous ever since its organization, being now out
of debt and owning a hall worth about $1,000. Its present membership is thirty
six, and the officers are: David H. Stevens, W. M.; James A. Smith, S. W.;
Henry Sutton, J. W. James F. Dillard, Secretary; Jesse Tucker, Treasurer; Eli
Jones, S. D.; Jesse Cope, J. D.; and J. C. Marlett, Tiler. The lodge of I. 0.
0. F., known as Patoka, No. 385, was established here on the 8th of January,
1872, with Kinder Parks, N. G.; James Dillard, V. G.; James F. Dillard,
Secretary; J. W. Jacobs, Permanent Secretary; William Parks, Treasurer; and in
addition to these were William Brent, Joseph R. Leonard and William S. Fisher
as charter members. At one time this organization was one of the most thriving
in the county, having as high as forty members, but owing to its members moving
away it has lost much of its interest, and is now on the wane. There was also
an Encampment here with about twenty members, but this is now defunct.
UNIONVILLE
The town of Unionville is in the northern part of Greenfield Township. and is a flourishing little village of about 200 population. It was laid out some time prior to September, 1864, and is said to have derived its name from the circumstance of the two political parties uniting to raise a pole. At that time, as at present, the township was strongly Democratic, and some dispute arose as to which party should have the top of the pole as the more honorable place. This was finally determined in favor of the "old hickory," and thenceforth everything "went merry as a marriage bell." From this union of the parties the town has been called Unionville. It is said to have been laid out by the Teafords, and is on Young’s Creek, an addition being made in February, 1869. There is quite an extensive trade done at this place, and Frederick Gobble is said to have been the first merchant. This was probably late in the fifties or early in the sixties. His stock was not large, and was composed of such goods as country stores of those times kept. He also kept a distillery for some time, but quit that about the year 1868. In 1869 William R. Apple commenced doing a mercantile business with what was then counted a good stock of general merchandise, and for some time did a good trade. His successors have been Enoch Apple, Braxtan & Braxtan, Scott & Wolf, Gilliatt & Weeks, and Teaford & Apple, the last firm now doing a good trade with a full stock of goods. William B. Hill started another store in 1878, and is yet doing a prosperous business with a stock of dry goods, groceries, etc., usually kept in stores of this kind. Mayfleld Bros. have recently opened a drug store here, and are having good success in their enterprise. Besides this Dr. W. B. Gilliatt does considerable business in the drug line of merchandise. Mrs. Paulina Bundy, in 1883, began her present flourishing trade in millinery goods. J. A. Weeks, and A. McBride are the blacksmiths of the place, each having a shop of his own. Dr. Jacob Martin is said to have been the first physician of the place, coming in 1864, and after remaining about two years, with but little practice, he left. Dr. William D. Ellis located here in the fall of 1867, and has continued here ever since, enjoying a successful practice. Frederick Gobble, the first merchant of the place, began the practice of medicine in 1869 and continued until 1874, when he moved away. In the fore part of 1871, Dr. W. B. Gilliatt began the practice here, and has been actively engaged in it ever since that time. Besides these, Drs. Lomax and Hammond have done some practice in the country, although they never were citizens of Unionville. The churches of the town are two - the United Brethern and the Old School Regular Baptist. At this place there is a Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, organized in June, 1884, with twenty-eight charter members, and William H. Hobson as Commander. It is in a healthy and growing condition, and one of the strongest in the county. The name of the Postoffice here is Young’s Creek, and since its establishment these persons have been Postmaster: Frederick Gobble, W. D. Ellis, W. R. Apple, W. B. Gilliatt and J. A. Weeks. They receive mail twice a week from Paoli, on Mondays and Fridays. Williamsburg was laid out in December, 1842, by William McDonald, on the banks of Patoka Creek, in the northwest quarter of Section 15, Township 1 south, Range 1 west. At that time he owned the grist-mill there, and also a store. He did a prosperous business for some time. After him Levi Long and Jonathan Halmer were merchants there. This attempt to build a town was unsuccessful, and in a few years there was nothing left of it in a business point of view, and now exists only in name. It is the present place of holding the elections in Greenfield Township.
PITTSBURG
Pittsburg, near the south boundary of the county, is said to have been named for a family who lived there named Pitman. This place is familiarly known among the citizens of the surrounding country as " Short Peg," but whence this unenviable appellation came is past finding out, even by the inquisitive historian. There is at this time a country store there owned by Patton, a grist-mill by Alonzo Bennett and a saw-mill.
ORANGEVILLE
On the 14th day of June, 1849, Samuel Hicks, Harvey Denny and Nathaniel
B. Wilson laid out a town on the southeast quarter of Section 6, Township 2
north, Range 1 west. This town, consisting of fifty-eight lots, was named
Orangeville, and something of the spirit of its founders may be caught from the
following stipulation placed in the record at the same time: "The
proprietors of the said town of Orangeville do mutually covenant and agree that
we and our successors in title forever will not make, sell or dispose of, or
permit others to make, sell or dispose of spirituous liquors, except for
medicinal or mechanical purposes, in or contiguous to the said town of
Orangeville. For each day’s violation of the above covenant the violator shall
pay five dollars, as in any case of debt, upon the complaint of any citizen of
said town of Orangeville, to be applied to the district school in which the
said town of Orangeville is situated." The object aimed at by this
agreement is indeed a commendable one, but whether or not such a contract would
be binding on everybody "forever" is a matter of much doubt.
Nevertheless, it is surely a harmless means to obtain a worthy end, and in this
case it seems to have worked the desired effect, as there has never yet been a
saloon or retail liquor establishment of any kind in the town. Long may
Orangeville retain its present reputation for temperate and moral habits! It is
situated at what is usually known as the "rise of Lost River," where
the water springs from the earth at the foot of a large rock, affording a
stream sufficient to be dignified with the name of river. A short distance
below this is situated the flouring-mill now owned by Samuel Hicks, one of the
original proprietors of the town. The first mill here was built and owned by
Jacob Shirley, probably as early as 1820, and it was operated by an undershot
water-wheel. The building was made of logs, as was nearly everything else in
the line of architecture at that date in Orange County. This mill has changed
owners several times, but for several years has been controlled by Mr. Hicks at
different times. The last time it came to his hands he changed the location and
rebuilt, at the same time putting in new machinery, so that it can now be
operated by either steam or water power.
About the year 1850 William P. Hobbs began doing the first trade in general
merchandise that was ever carried on at Orangeville, and at nearly the same
time was appointed the first Postmaster of the place. He continued in his
business for about three years when he sold to Van R. Noblitt and Andrew Elrod,
the former of whom has remained in trade there ever since. John B. Buskirk
succeeded Mr. Hobbs as Postmaster, and since then John A. Ritter and Van R.
Noblitt have held the office, the last since 1869 continuously.
There is at present a daily mail, and it is on the route from Mitchell to
Jasper, going each way every day. The firms of Ritter & Buskirk, Buskirk
& Collins, Noblitt & Buskirk, Davis & Brown and H. H. Polson &
Son, have all, in their turn done the leading trade of the place. Lewis Webb
had a drug store about 1876, and Dr. Ritter also kept a full line of medicines
for several years. Asbury Knight kept a sort of huckster shop here for a short
time.
Harrison Woods was the first blacksmith and after him Richard Pruett and many
others. Robert Knight is the present "Village Blacksmith," and he
finds but little time to repose in the shade of any spreading chestnut. John
Whittington followed wagon-making for several years, and used to turn out
two-horse wagons for $15. Of course there were others at higher prices, but
then people were not so proud nor wealthy either, and a $15 wagon was good
enough for most folks. George Faucett also worked at this considerably in early
times, and Dr. Ritter now has a wagon that he says was made by Faucett nearly
sixty years ago.
Dr. John A. Ritter, one of the prominent and respected citizens of the county,
was the first physician at Orangeville, where he settled in 1850, and has ever
since been in the active practice of his profession. Other physicians here have
been Dr. A. L. Goodwin, Dr. Charles Reed. Dr. Elias Albertson, Dr. Charles M.
Riley and Dr. Carter, the last coming in 1856, and has ever since then been
associated with Dr. Ritter.
A lodge of Odd Fellows, No. 113, is located here. It was organized June 30,
1852, at Orleans, with M. L. Deal, J. B. Wilson, Edward Barr, W. L. Vanoy and
L. S. Coffin as petitioners. The following were the charter members: John
Baker, William C. R. Kemp, George Clark, Jeremiah Reed, Thomas W. Knox and John
G. Huff. Sometime after this the lodge was changed to Orangeville, where it has
been successful, owning the building in which they meet, and have over $1,000
at interest, and a present membership of twenty-five. There was also a lodge of
the Patrons of Husbandry that flourished here for a while during the period
when that organization was in its glory.
VALEENE
Within the bounds of Southeast
Township there is but one town. This is Valeene, located a little west of the
center, on the southwest quarter of Section 10, and the northwest quarter of
Section 15, Township 1 south, and Range 1 east. It was laid out April 10, 1837,
by John Hollowell, Sr., and John Hollowell, Jr., who at the same time donated
Lot No. 21 to the public for school purposes. The first store in the township
is said to have been kept by Samuel Stalcup, one and a half miles east of
Valeene, at his residence, about the year 1836. He soon after sold to Isaac
Roach who moved it to Valeene making the first store of that place. Since then
the following persons have been doing a general merchandise trade there:
William Wellman, Irvin Polson, John Briggs, John Maxedon and Dr. Lee Hazlewood,
partners, Joseph Ferguson, Thomas Maxedon, Reed Stalcup, J. W. Montgomery &
Co., Albert Montgomery & Co. and J. W. Sloan, these last two being now in
business. The earlier merchants were compelled to haul all their goods from
Louisville by wagons, but since the building of what is known as the Air Line
Railroad, all goods are shipped to Marengo on that road, and thence carted to
Valeene. The postoffice was established about the year 1840, with William
Holaday as the first Postmaster. Since then William Wellman, William Stalcup,
Henry Smith, John Walton, John Maxedon, Pearson Maxedon. J. W. Montgomery and
J. W. Sloan have held that office, the last-named gentleman being the present
incumbent. The first postal route that brought mail to Valeene was from
Leavenworth to Paoli, which continued until November, 1882, and since that time
has been brought from Marengo on the Air Line. On account of the prevailing
good health, physicians have been rather shy of this town. Dr. Lee Hazlewood,
now one of its honored and respected citizens, was the first doctor that
located there, coming in the spring of 1841. Dr. John C. Dyer came in 1852, and
after a few months ]eft, as did Dr. Goodwin in 1873. Dr. Robert Maxedon
practiced here from 1873 to 1875. Dr. George R. Hazlewood began practice in
1879 in company with his father, and has remained with him ever since.
A lodge of Odd Fellows, known as Valeene Lodge, No. 558, was organized here in
1879. Its first officers were: J. W. Montgomery. N. G.; Pearson Maxedon, V. G.
; S. S. Murphy, Secretary; Robert Wood. Treasurer; Lee Hazlewood, R. S. N. G.;
G. R. Hazlewood, L. S. N. G.; Isaac Free, R. S. V. G.; Emanuel Smith, L. S. V.
G. These six persons appear as charter members: J. W. Montgomery, S. S. Murphy,
Emanuel Smith, Pearson Maxedon, Robert Wood and Joseph Bird. The lodge has been
prosperous and has about forty members at present.
LANCASTER
The town of Lancaster is situated in the northwest part of Northeast
Township, on the Louisville, New Albany & Chicago Railroad. It was laid out
in October, 1851, by David S. Lewis and Isaac Edwards on both sides of the
railroad, and has a total of thirty-eight lots. North, High, Railroad and Water
Streets run east and west, while Lost River, Walnut and Leavenworth Streets run
north and south. It is on the northeast quarter of Section 26, Township 3
North, Range 1 east.
The first store here was kept and owned by the founders of the town, Messrs.
Lewis & Edwards. This was about the time of completing the railroad. The
building at that time answered the purpose for both store, railroad depot and
warehouse. These men did a good trade for some time, and after changing hands
several times the store was discontinued. About the same time the Postoffice
was established there, with Spencer Smith as Postmaster. His successors have
been but two - A. C. Dowd and the present incumbent, Henry Mahan. Soon after the
railroad was built here, Frank Moore and Benjamin Turner formed a partnership
and for a year or so did quite an extensive mercantile trade. Mr. J. G. Reed
succeeded Moore & Turner, and in 1855 or 1856 sold out to Messrs. Lee &
Hardman, who sold to A. C. Dowd, and he to Mr. Henry Monyhan, who is still
there and pursuing a prosperous business, and is agent for the Louisville, New
Albany & Chicago Railroad. In 1875 or 1876 Mr. J. G. Reed put in a stock of
general merchandise at Lancaster and has continued there ever since. The first
blacksmith was probably James Hostetler, but since his day several have been
there. Mr. John H. Mathew is now engaged in that trade. A saw-mill was put up
here about 1852, by Tegarden & Forester, and about five years later a grist-mill
was added, and for about ten years did a considerable custom grinding, and then
gradually died out.
FRENCH LICK
The town of French Lick was laid on the second day of May, 1857, by William A. Bowles. It consisted of seventy-seven lots on Section 3, Township 1 north, Range 2 west. A "public ground or avenue" was donated "for school or township purposes, where suitable buildings shall be erected thereon by the public." On the authority of Dr. Ryan, it is said that a store was kept here as early as 1813, by Charles & Hungate, although it was probably but little more than a supply store for amunition and such necessaries as were kept in the neighborhood of early military stations of that day. Dr. Bowles was interested in the development of the place, and early became one of its merchants. About or prior to the time of laying out the town, a postoffice was established here, but after a few years it was discontinued until 1865, when Dr. Ryan re-established it there and was himself made Postmaster. This position be held for seventeen years, when H. E. Wells was appointed in his stead and occupies that office. The store that probably does more business than any other one in the county is now at this place, and is owned by Mr. H. E. Wells. He keeps a full assortment of general merchandise and has no opposition. This was the voting place for old Southwest Township, as it is also for French Lick.
NEW PROSPECT
New Prospect, also in French Lick Township, was laid out September 4, 1836, by Nathan Pinnick, on the east half of Section 27, Township 2 north, Range 2 west. It is situated at the junction of French Lick Creek and Lost River, and on the new Albany and Vincennes turnpike. The auction of lots occurred on the 5th of September, 1839. Lost River was at that time navigable for ordinary river craft to the mouth or Lick Creek, about one mile farther up the stream, and where there were two grist-mills in operation for several years, one of which is now known as the Grigsby Mill. A postoffice has long been established here, and the place was formerly a very good trading point. Lick Creek is another postoffice in the eastern part of the township, kept by Mr. George W. Campbell. He is also doing a thriving trade in dry goods and general merchandise.
CHAMBERSBURG
The land upon which this village stands, the southeast quarter of Section 15, Township 1 north, Range 1 east, was purchased from the Government by Samuel Chambers. September 13, 1821. Mr. Chambers had bought the southwest quarter of the same section. July 28, 1815. On the southwest part of the southeast quarter of the above section, Samuel Chambers, owner and proprietor, assisted by Thomas Newlin, County Surveyor, laid out a total of 207 lots in the month of September, 1840, and named the village thus founded in honor of himself - Chambersburg. Prior to that period it had had no particular name, though there had been a store and blacksmith-shop and possibly other business interests there for many years before. As early as 1822 Mr. Chambers erected a small log store building on the present site of the village, in which he placed about $600 worth of a general assortment of goods which he had bought at Louisville, Ky., the stock comprising, among other things, drygoods, groceries, hardware, notions, etc. He also opened a harness and saddlery shop, which he conducted in connection with his store, and also opened a tavern. He also engaged in business at the county seat, and thus had "several irons in the fire," not the least important being his occupation of the office of Representative and later of State Senator. Soon after this store was established Robert Paschal opened a blacksmithshop there. Here it was that many of the early settlers bought their plows, axes, etc., and obtained their repairs of farm implements. Late in the twenties James Woolly erected a building and began to manufacture wagons, which were ironed at the shop. A postoffice was secured about 1830, Samuel Chambers being the agent. The brick house of Mr. Chambers was built about this time. This was the village prior to 1840. As soon as the lots was laid out and offered for sale, and as soon as it became apparent that a village in earnest was to grow there, residents began to appear and industries spring into life. Col. John Murray opened a small store. The turnpike had been completed the year before, and extensive travel westward created the necessity of a village at that point. The tavern was crowded. Solomon Donner soon opened a blacksmith-shop. George Moore opened a carpenter-shop. John G. Cadle opened a general store. R. S. Dillinger commenced blacksmithing. Henry Stewart also began to sell goods. Dr. Green Hazlewood located in the village and is there yet, with a good practice, and the good will of all. Liness Campbell sold goods in the town for a time, as did also Daniel Dwyer, James Kirkwood, Moore & Pritchard, Nathan Hellowell, Lancaster Trublood, Wood and Ira Boyd during the last war. Thomas & Burgess and others. The present merchant is J. T. Wolf. W. G. & C. F. Chambers built a saw-mill in the town about 1857, but soon sold out to Montgomery & Chenoweth, who erected a grist-mill. After a few years this mill was conveyed farther down the creek. Daniel Dwyer was the Postmaster, in 1840, and Dr. James Kritzer was the first resident physician. The population has not exceeded 150.
MILLERSBURG
There is no regularly platted and laid out village within the present confines of Stampers Creek Township. Millersburg, situated a little north and east of the center of the township, has long been the headquarters for business. The first store was started here about the year 1833, by Greenup Miller, for whom the place has since been called. He remained in trade some three or four years. Since his time a man named Rogers, True & Moss, True & Duncan, then Duncan alone, Gilliland & Polson, Ulrich Sailer, and Polson & Pickens have succeeded each other in the order named; the last firm being the one at present engaged in the merchandise trade at this little place. They are doing a large trade, and in connection deal largely in produce of various kinds. Their stock is valued at about $2,000. Urich Sailer was a merchant here for over seventeen years. About the year 1840 William Mahan opened a store on the Mahan farm, about two miles west of Millersburg, which he continued about five years, with a good assortment of goods. He sold out to John Jackson, who, after remaining a while longer sold out, and the store at that place was discontinued. The only postoffice is at Millersburg, called Stampers Creek. It was established about the year 1851, with Seth M. Stone as Postmaster. His successors have been George C. Duncan, Nancy B. Duncan, Ulrich Sailer, and the present incumbent, Dr. James Baker. Until July 1, 1884, a mail was received twice a week from Paoli, but at that date a daily mail began, the route being from Campbellsburg, in Washington County, on the Louisville, New Albany & Chicago Railroad. In the year 1845, two men, Davis and Dillard began doing a blacksmith trade at this place, which was continued for some time, but since their day no one has attempted the business there.