Parke County Indiana Biographies - A

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GEORGE ABERNATHY, retired farmer, living at Murray, was born in Ross County, Ohio, September 22, 1821, a son of John Abernathy, who was born near Warm Springs, Virginia, and a grandson of John Abernathy, who served in the Revolutionary war. The grandfather settled with his family in Ross County, Ohio, in 1808, when the principal inhabitants were Indians and wild animals. A few of the members of his family were captured by the Indians who covered them with splinters which were then set on fire, leaving great scars on their persons.  In the spring of 1828 our subject’s father removed with his family to Parke County, Indiana, where they endured all the hardships incident to pioneer life, and here George was reared among Indians, his home being a rude log cabin.  He was married February 1, 1844, to Sarah Evans, a daughter of Nathaniel Evans, a pioneer of Parke County, and of the two children born to this union one is living, a son, John, now living in Madison Township of Clarke County.  In 1844 our subject, accompanied by his wife, his brother William and his family, immigrated with ox teams to Logan County, Illinois, where they settled on Salt Creek Prairie. After his wife’s death in 1849 he returned with his two children to Parke County, Indiana, and early in the year 1850 he located in Wapello County, Iowa. He was again united in marriage February 28, 1850, taking for his second wife Elizabeth Griggs, a daughter of Eaton Griggs who, in early days, was a noted gun smith in Agency City, Iowa. To this union have been born twelve children, ten still living--Mrs. Sarah E. Turner, William E., George P., Charles L., Henry L., Andrew J., Emma J., Maggie L., Viola A. and Luther M.  He went to Agency City in May, 1853, thence to La Harpe, Hancock County, Illinois, in 1853. He returned to Wapello County, Iowa, 1858, and in 1860 removed to Sullivan County, Missouri. In the spring of 1861 he traded his farm in Missouri for one in Iowa, the farm being in Monroe County, to which he removed with his family in August, 1861. In 1861 he went to Washington Territory and engaged in mining there and in Oregon and Idaho with his three brothers. They had formed a company composed of eighty-four men on their way out there at Fort Kearney on the Platte River. Two of the brothers are still in Idaho, and the third is now living in Utah. Our subject returned to Iowa in the fall of 1863, and in 1865 settled in Madison Township, Clarke County, where he remained till 1883, since which he has resided at Murray Springs.  When our subject was fourteen years old his father gave him a hand sickle, which is still in his possession, and when a young man he used a plow with a wooden mold board, in his agricultural pursuits. After coming to Clarke County, Iowa, he used a one-horse shovel plow, a two-horse sulky turning plow and two-horse corn planter and check rower, a two-horse sulky cultivator and combined reaper and mower, and a self rake. - Clarke County(IA) Historical and Biographical Record by Lewis Publishing, 1886. Page 11

Albert M. ADAMS was a son of Harvey Adams, who was one of the largest land owners one of the most successful farmers and one of the best citizens of Parke County.  Harry Adams lived and died on the beautiful tract of land adjoining the state reservation 3 miles east of Rockville.  Here in 1860 Albert Adams was born. He graduated at the State University, read law with S. D. Puett and was the partner when elected Representative of Parke Co in 1894.  He was afterwards elected Prosecuting Attorney of this Judicial Circuit.  Before studying law Mr. Adams was Superintendent of the Rockport public schools, there he was married to Miss Kate BULLOCK, the beautiful and accomplished daughter of James Bullock.  Mr. and Mrs. Adams came to Rockville in 1885 and resided here until the death of Mr. Adams.  Albert Adams was a man of fine personal appearance, an athlete of splendid training and remarkable strength and activity.  His friends could not realize that one so strong and robust was in serious ill health when he was compelled to cease business activity, yet his decline was constant in spite of his strong constitution and he died after a long illness.  Albert Adams had strong convictions and never hesitated in acting upon them, even though it meant unpopularity.  The later years of his life were devoted to business and to the management of his farm four miles from Rockville.  To this work as to everything he undertook he developed all the energy of his naturally industrious nature. - 1816-1916 Atlas of Parke County, Indiana, Page 58

ADAMS, Harvey, farmer, Rockville, was born in Ross County, Ohio July 6, 1825, and is the son of Philip and Mary L. (CHESTNUT) Adams.  His father was born in Virginia in 1783 and died in Parke County 1845.  He moved to Ohio  before the war of 1812 and was a member of the Methodist church and in politics was an old line Whig.  His mother was born 1795 and died 1863.  Mr. Adams had only the common school education of his day, and although he did not have the education of the schools, yet he obtained a practical education that has enabled him to become the wealthiest farmer in Adams Township.  Mr. Adams began farming for himself in 1846 with but little capital.  He was married August 15, 1848 to Miss Elizabeth A. CARUTHERS, who was born in 1827.  They have had 9 children: Joseph D, who has attended school at Bloomingdale Academy and has taught school in the fall and winter for 8 or 9 years; Emma I, who has taught school and has attended the Bloomingdale Academy and State Normal at Terre Haute, intending to graduate; Albert M, who attended Bloomingdale Academy and has taught school and gone to the State University. At Bloomington; expecting to graduate; Anna L who died May 12, 1876; Lewis E, Lucy A (twins); John M who attended Bloomingdale academy and taught school for a number of terms and Mary E, who is the wife of Josephus OTT.  Mr. A. Now has about 2,000 acres of land, about 900 acres of which is in good cultivation and the remainder is good woods and pasture land.  Upon the place where he lives he built, in 1859, a large, fine slate-roof dwelling house at a cost of about $5,000.  Mr. ADAMS has raised grain and stock largely. - unknown source

Harvey ADAMS - the vast agricultural resources of the United States enable thousands of men to gain maintenance and secure a competence by tilling the soil.  Parke County is not without her share of these enterprising workers, and among those in Adams Township who own and occupy excellent estates is the gentleman above named, who is numbers among the successful men of the county.  His property is well improved and the owner not only raises the cereals for which this state is so well adapted, but also devotes considerable attention to the various domestic animals, breeding them in considerable numbers.  The father of our subject, Philip Adams was born in Virginia where he was reared to manhood.  His father came from England to America in an early day, and Philip, when a young man, went to Ohio, prior to the War of 1812, in which he took an active part.  He settled in Ross County, near Chillicothe and engaged in farming and stock raising. He there married a Miss Bird, and to them were born three children.  A sad occurrence happened in the death of his wife and some time after he married Mary L. CHESTNUT (May 6, 1824 in Ross County, Ohio) a daughter of Daniel Chestnut who was of Irish descent.  Mrs. Adams was born and reared in Ross County, Ohio and by her union with Mr. Adams became the mother of four children, our subject being the first-born.  Those living are our subject, and David, who is a physician in Edinburgh, Indiana.  The deceased are James who died in Gentry County, Missouri and Marion who was a lawyer.  In 1830, Philip Adams moved to Indiana and located within seven miles of Terre Haute, where he pursued farming four years at the end of which time he moved to the place where he now lives.  This farm consists of 80 acres, 15 of which were cleared at the time of purchase.  From time to time he added to his possessions until at his death he owned 240 acres of land in this vicinity.  In politics he was a Whig. He died June 14, 1845 his wife following him 18 years later.  Our subject was born in Ross County, Ohio July 6, 1825 and was about six when his father moved from Ohio to this county.  He was educated in the old log schoolhouse, where he pursued his studies with energy, and he added to knowledge gained there from by attendance for two winters in the Rockville school.  When a lad, he used to walk 3 miles to and from school each day, thus demonstrating his determination of being a man of a noble character, and although not ambitious, as the world knows ambition, yet he was untiring in his devotion to his school work.  Like a good son he remained with his father, assisting him in performing the duties of farm life to the best of his ability, and after the decease of that parent still continued on the farm until his marriage, which occurred August 22, 1849. The lady of his choice was Miss Eliza A. CAROTHERS, a daughter of John Carothers, who was formerly a farmer of Vermilion County, IL.  After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Adams located on the farm where they now live happily together.  A family of eight blessed their union: John W, who is living near Montezuma; Mary A., who was the wife of Josephus OTT, but died February 28, 1891; Joseph who is a dealer in machinery in Indianapolis; Emma, wife of S. C. TRUEBLOOD, who is engaged in the poultry business at Indianapolis; Albert M, of Rockville; Lucy O., who married Albert OVERMAN, a prominent clothier of Rockville; Lewis E, a farmer in this neighborhood; and Anna L, who died at age 15.  Our subject has in his possession 2300 acres of land in Parke County, all of which is in Washington, Adams and Jackson Townships.  He rents a greater part of this land, and is himself chiefly engaged in general farming and stock raising.  On his farm he has erected a beautiful home and commodious barn and he is the third largest land owner in Parke County, one of the oldest settlers now living in Adams Township and one of the most well-to-d citizens therein.  The major part of his property he has accumulated by his indomitable will, as his father was enabled to give him only $300 when he started in his life pursuit.  He has amassed a fortune and has always been a cheerful giver, an earnest worker for his fellows, and now enjoys the reward of his good works by securing the confidence of his fellow citizens.  In his political relations our subject is a true-blue Republican and takes an active part in all local affairs, although never an aspirant for office. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 120

ADAMS, James W., farmer, Bridgeton, is a son of James W. and Minerva SNOW Adams.  His father was born December 26, 1828 in Parke Co; was raised on a farm, and by improving all his educational advantages fitted himself for a teacher.  He taught 8 or 10 years.  He spent some time at Asbury University that he might better do his work and develop himself.  He voted the democratic ticket and was a member of the Methodist church, having joined a short time before his decease, which occurred when James was a small child.  He had been married to Martha SNOW, now Mrs. James A. REA January 1, 1852.  Their family numbers but two: Martha J, born November 23, 1852; and James W., Jr. who was born November 24, 1853 and married April 3, 1879 to Mary E. CAPPER, daughter of Daniel and Margaret Capper.  Mrs. Adams was born February 12, 1858 in Parke Co.  The children were left fatherless when young.  James was raised mostly by James A. Rea, to whom Mrs. Adams was married when the boy James was 4 years old.  James remained with Mr. Rea till 25 years of age, when he was married.  He cast his first vote for Rutherford B. HAYES and walks in the republican ranks.  Beadle, J.H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo & Parke County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers

Orly E. ADAMS - from the age of 11 has depended entirely upon his own resources and the success which he has achieved is attributable directly to his labor and diligence. He is now extensively engaged in the manufacture of fine harness is also a dealer in trunks and bags and is vice president of the Brazil Electric Light Company.  He is, however, not along active in lines resulting in substantial benefit of himself but is also a citizen whose aid and cooperation can ever ben counted upon to further the  best interests of Brazil and his country.  His life began in Parke County, Indiana September 9, 1859, his parents being John and Minerva Seybold Adams.  The father who was born in 1830 died in 1864 at the comparatively early age of 34.  In his younger manhood he was a school teacher and later on turned his attention to farming, which business he was following at the time of his demise. His political support was given to the Democracy and in the community where he lived he commanded the respect and good will of all who knew him. His wife who was born in Parke County, Indiana June 18, 1831 is now living in Terre Haute.  She is a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and Rebekah Lodge of Odd Fellows and takes a great interest in these organizations with which she has long been helpfully identified. In the family were 5 children but only two are living, the sister of our subject being Miss Martha Adams. Orly E. Adams was but 5 at the time of his father's death.  In March 1860 the mother removed with her children to Terre Haute where the family home was established.  During his boyhood he attended the public schools and when but a young lad sold newspapers in that city. He had been dependent entirely upon his own resources for a living form age 11. He spent one year in a printing office and when age 15 began working on a farm land, being thus connected with agricultural interests until 15 March 1882 when he came to Brazil and here began the manufacture of harness. He had a capital of 150 dollars which he had saved from his earnings.  He had never served a regular apprenticeship at the trade but had learned it through observation and experience and has built up an excellent business in the manufacture of fine harness. He is also a trader in trunks and bags and this branch of his business is likewise proving profitable.  He was one of the men who took over the business on the reorganization of the Brazil Electric Light Company and is now its vice president. In business matters he shows sound judgment in enterprise and throughout his entire life his salient characteristics have been such as command him to the confidence and trust of all with whom he has been associated. Mr. Adams has been married twice. He first wedded Miss Julia Anderson on 26 July 1885. She was born in Bowling Green, Clay County, Indiana  November 14, 1859 a daughter of James Anderson. Her death occurred May 23, 1886 and for his second wife Mrs. Adams chose Miss Mary A. Nees whom he wedding November 23, 1893.  She was born in Greencastle,  Indiana and her father, James M. Nees was a native of Clay County who throughout his active business career followed merchandising and farming.  He died 1901. By his 2nd marriage, Mr. Adams had 3 children: James S, Edwin L and William HH.  Mr. Adams is prominent in Masonry and has been identified with the order since 1883 when he became a member of Brazil Lodge no 264 AF & Am.  He served as worshipful master for 3 years and for 10 years as treasurer.  He has taken the Royal Arch degrees, belonging to Brazil Chapter no 59, RAM and has also taken the degrees of cryptic and chivalric Masonry belonging to Brazil Council No 40 R & SM and Brazil Commandery No 47 KT.  His name is likewise on the membership rolls of the Knights of Pythias Lodge of Brazil and the Elks Lodge NO. 762.  His political allegiance is given to the Republican Party and he stands as a stalwart advocate of much that is beneficial to the city giving active support to interests and measures that have for their object the welfare and improvement of this portion of the state - Travis, William. A history of Clay County, Indiana.  New York: Lewis Publishing Company, 1909, Page 373 

ALLEE, F. M. farmer, Montezuma, was born in Reserve Township, Parke County, Indiana June 26, 1844.  He is the son of Linus and Sarah A. (BRYANT) Allee.  His father was a native of Hancock County, Indiana and died in Parke Co. 1858.  His mother was a native of PA, and died in this county about 1852.  Mr. Allee has been a resident of this county the most of his life.  In the late rebellion he went out in 1861 and served until June 26, 1865, in the 9th Ind. Battery and was in several battles and a great many skirmishes.  In 1865 he was married to Nancy C. WOLFE a native of Parke Co.  She died in 1868.  He was married again in 1877, to Mary E. HUXFORD, daughter of W. R. GRIFFITH.  She was born in Muskingum County, Ohio  1849.  (Beadle, J.H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers reprinted 1977 by The Bookmark, Knightstown IN). - 1891 "Biographical History of Pottawattamie County, Iowa” -- F.M. ALLEE, was born in Parke County, Indiana, June 25, 1844, son of LIMUS ALLEE, who was of American birth. His parents were Quakers, who came from the north of Ireland at an early day, settling on a farm in Hancock County, Indiana. LIMUS ALLEE was born in that county but removed to Parke County when a young man.  He was a carpenter by trade and was married to SARAH A. WARNER, and they had 7 children: F.M., JOHN, WILLIAM, MARY E., MARTHA, SUSAN, and ETTA. The mother died in Parke County from an accident caused by her clothes catching fire. Mr. Allee was again married to RUTH HIGGINS, and in 1857 moved to Vermillion County, Illinois, where he bought a farm. He died in 1859; he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. FRANCIS M. ALLEE, subject of this sketch, enlisted at age 17 years into the Ninth Indiana Battery, and served 3 years and 7 months, or through the War. He was in the battle of Shiloh, April 6 and 7, and many skirmishes. He was on the steamer Eclipse at Jonesville, Tennessee, January 25, 1865 when the boiler exploded, and he received a severe wound, and was thrown into the river. He served all his time, however, with no hospital record, and no other wounds. He was honorably discharged at Indianapolis, Indiana, June 26, 1865, being then just 21 years of age. Mr. Allee lived on a farm in Parke County, Indiana, until 1880 when he came to Pottawattamie County, Iowa, and settled on his present farm of 150 acres. He is Township Trustee. He was married in Parke County, Indiana, to NANCY C. WOLFE, daughter of JOSEPH and ELIZABETH WOLFE, and by this marriage there were two children: Preston and May. Preston Allee married Ora Ratcliff and settled on a farm in Indiana and had one daughter, Nellie. May Allee died in infancy. Nancy (Wolfe) Allee died, and F.M. Allee married secondly to MARY E. HUXFORD (nee Griffith) the daughter of William R. and Edith Griffith. The father was born in Belmont County, Ohio , in 1824 and was the son of MAHLON GRIFFITH who died in Muskingum County, OH. He was a farmer and was the father of 3 children: Mahlon, William R. and Leahann. He was a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. and Mrs... William R. Griffith were the parents of 9 children: Mary E., William W., Mahlon, Theodore (who died at age 12), Almon, John R., Perry, Edgar G. and Leahann. Mr. Griffith lived in Belmont County for some years, and then moved to Muskingum County, and in 1865 settled in Parke County, Indiana. In 1877 he came to Pottawattamie County, Iowa, and settled on a farm in Valley Township where he still resides at the age of 67.  Thanks to Mona Knight for this biography (and, gee, gang, it's not even her family). - Unknown Source

Jackson ALLEN, a representative citizen of Reserve Township, Parke County belongs to the number who are today among its most enlightened and enterprising farmers.  He is the son of Solomon Allen, who was born in 1796 in the Old Dominion, coming to Ohio with his parents where he received his limited education, attending school but five months.  In the fall of 1826 he came to Reserve Township, Parke County, and located Section 33, on 80 acres of land, which he entered and improved.  He was a zealous worker in church affairs and held the important offices of Elder and Exhorter nearly all his life. At the time of his death, November 11, 1890, he was the possessor of 80 acres of arable land. The first wife of Solomon Allen bore him six children: Emily Woodard, who married Jesse Kemp; Samuel, deceased; Jackson; Sarah J. Morrison; Joseph and Harmony Henderson. The mother was born in 1794 and died in the spring of 1871.  After the death of his first wife, Mr. Allen was married to Mrs. Peggy Lewis, widow of Eli Lewis and daughter of William Morris. She died in January 1889. The grandfather of our subject was named Jackson and went to Ohio in 1807, where he lived 33 years. At the end of that time he came to Indiana where he lived until death in 1845.  His wife followed him 5 years later, dying in 1850. He was a supporter of the Whig body and was devoted to the unpretentious sect of Friends. To himself and wife were born: Edward Joseph; Solomon; Wesley; Benjamin; Ruth; Mary; Anice; Rebecca; Sallie and Harmony.  Jackson Allen was born March 12, 1826 Clarke County, Ohio, received a common district school education and taught two winters. When he attained the age of 21 he began work on the farm for himself and a year later became the owner of his first farm of 40 acres, sec 32, which he improved, subsequently adding to it 35 acres. In the spring of 1860 he sold his farm and bought 133 acres on Section 33, which is now in splendid condition. Starting in life with a capital of $400 by persistent efforts and untiring energy, he has made for himself a competency as a rich reward for his labors. He now owns 188 acres of finely cultivated land. He is a Republican in politics and, like father, in religious views a Friend. On 13 September 1848, Mr. Allen was wedded to Catherine Morris, daughter of Exum and Eleanor Newlin Morris, who came from North Carolina. about 1824. Her grandfather was Jeremiah son of Zachariah Morris. Mrs. Allen was born in Vermillion County, Illinois.   Our subject and wife have become the worthy parents of six children, all with the exception of one, grew to maturity. Eunice, wife of Cyrus Cox, died, leaving two sons, Edgar C. and Seabron J. Eleanor, who married Jeremiah H. Siler, died leaving one child, Clara. The remaining ones are: Clarkston T.; William E. and Alida, wife of Franklin M. Smith. Mr. Allen afforded his children a good education, knowing the necessity for this and feeling his responsibility in preparing them for an independent life. Having always been a politician of good standing and influence, he was sent as a delegate to the State convention in 1880 at Crawfordsville. Mr. Allen has made for himself a warm place in the hearts of the people with whom he has been so long associated, and they have always found him true to his word, honorable in thought and act, and faithful in his friendships. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 582

ALLEN, James A., farmer, Rockville, is one of the respected men of Adams Township and was born in Parke County April 7, 1833.  His father, James ALLEN, as born in Wythe County, Virginia October 15, 1803 and died March 8, 1876.  He settled in Parke County in 1825.  He was left an orphan at 12 years of age, without money, but by industry and good management he became a wealthy farmer.  During the early days of Indiana he endured many hardships, and passed through many trying and interesting experiences, but he lived to see what was then a wilderness become the abode of civilization.  Mr. Allen’s mother, Mary CARUTHERS was born December1, 1810 and died November 19, 1877.  She was the daughter of John CARUTHERS of Ohio .  Mr. ALLEN had the advantages of the common school for an education.  He began farming for himself in the spring of 1854, and was married March 25, 1858 to Mary Jane OTT.  She was born May 26, 1836 in Augusta County, Virginia They have had 5 children: Oscar M, born December19, 1859 died September 28, 1860; James E., December4, 1860; Cora born July 8, 1865 died May 26, 1866; Frank S, July 30, 1869 and Homer O, September 5, 1873.  Mr. & Mrs. Allen are both members of the Presbyterian church of Rockville.  Mr. Allen was a Mason 15 years and in politics is a republican.  He is a successful farmer, an enterprising citizen, and has reached his present condition by hard labor and good management.  - Unknown Source

James A. ALLEN makes his home on Section 35, Adams Township, Parke County where he has a well-cultivated farm of 297 acres.  In addition to this he owns 240 acres in Walnut Township (sic), thus making his landed estates amount to 537 acres in all.  He is engaged in general farming and stock raising, making, however, a specialty of breeding English Shire draft horses.   Our subject was born in Washington Township this county April 7, 1833 and was the son of James Allen, one of the earliest settlers of Parke Co.  The latter was born in Virginia, October 15, 1803.  His father was killed in a battle with the Indians at Horseshoe Bend.  When a lad James Allen, Sr. removed to North Carolina with his parents, his father dying when he was a child.  He went to live with a Mr. Barnes until he was 18 when he ran away from home and in 1821 arrived in White River, Indiana where he stopped for a month and then came to this county.  He settled on a place about 3 1/2 miles north of Rockville in what is now Washington Township, where he entered land of the Government, built a little log cabin, where he lived alone for some time and then wedded Miss Mary CAROTHERS, whose father was one of the earliest settlers of this county to which he came from Ohio. Mrs. Allen was born in Ohio December 1, 1810, and after her marriage she commenced housekeeping in the rude log cabin erected by her husband.  However, at the end of the year, he purchased another piece of property in the same township which he held for some time, then sold and purchased another farm, finally removing to Adams Township on the Little Raccoon River, where he reared his family.  His wife died November 9, 1877. She was the mother of 10 children of whom 9 grew to manhood and womanhood and of this number our subject is the only survivor.  The father departed this life March 8, 1876. He helped to fight the Indians in the early days was a Whig and later a Republican. He accumulated considerable real estate and was noted for his strict integrity and sense of honor as he never made a contract which he did not carry out to the letter.  The gentleman of whom this is a brief life record was reared in Adams Township on the banks of the Little Raccoon River.  His school privileges were largely those of the district but he also attended Bloomingdale Academy.  When a little past his majority he located on the place where he now lives, going into partnership with William I, his brother.  April 25, 1858, was celebrated the marriage of our subject and Miss Mary, daughter of John OTT who was one of the earliest settlers of this county.  Mrs. Allen was born in Augusta County Virginia May 26, 1836 and was only an infant when she was brought to this county.  She was educated in the Rockville schools and by her marriage has become the mother of 5 children, 3 living: James Edgar, who has an adjoining farm; Frank C, a dentist at Frankfort, Indiana; in which line he is doing well and Homer O., a student at Wabash College.  At the time of his marriage, Mr. Allen dissolved partnership with his brother and settled on his present farm, where he has lived uninterruptedly with the exception of 9 months spent in California.  In regard to politics, our subject is a strong Republican and has held the office of County Commission from 1883 until 1886, during which time many important improvements were made. It is largely to his work at that time tat the credit of the good gravel roads in this locality is due.  Fraternally, he is a Mason, has been President of the Parke County Agricultural Society and has also been a member of the State Board of Agriculture. The County Fair has received his earnest support, he having been one of the principal promoters of the organization.  Mr. Allen is a member of the Presbyterian Church, to which organization his wife also belongs. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 252

An enumeration of the representative citizens of Richland county who have won recognition and success for themselves and at the same time have conferred honor upon the community would be decidedly incomplete were there failure to make mention of the popular gentleman whose name initiates this review who has long held worthy prestige in legal and political circles, and has always been distinctively a man of affairs but is now living retired.  He wields a wide influence among those with whom his lot has been cast ever having the affairs of his county at heart and doing what he could to aid in its development.  James Cameron ALLEN was born in Shelby County, Kentucky January 29, 1822 the son of Benjamin and Margaret Youel Allen natives of Augusta County, Virginia the former of Irish and latter of Scotch descent.  Grandfather John Allen was born in Ireland on the famous Shannon River and when 20 he came to America alone and settled in New Jersey where he married and later moved to Rockbridge County, Virginia and engaged in farming where he lived and died. Grandfather William Youel was born in Scotland and came to America when young located in Augusta County, Virginia on a farm and became an extensive stock raiser for that time. He served in the Revolutionary War being slightly wounded at the battle of Cowpens. After the British army had been driven away he picked up a large powder horn which had been used by an English shoulder. It was given to one of his sons, and became a valuable historical relic. Our subject used the same when a boy, while squirrel hunting. Grandfather Youel died in Virginia at an advanced age after rearing a large family. The father of our subject was a farmer and when young learned the trade of cycle maker. He kept a set of blacksmith tools as long as he lived.  Shortly after his marriage he emigrated to Shelby County, Kentucky having made the trip on horseback carrying all his earthly possessions on one pack horse. This was in 1803 when the country was covered with primeval woods and overrun by Indians. In 1830 he came to Parke County Indiana and located on a farm of 160 acres having bought part of the land from the man who had entered it and which had on it a small cabin and a few acres which had been cleared. He improved the place and developed a good farm which he later sold and retired. He died in Parke County in 1849 his wife having died in 1832. They were people of much sterling worth typical pioneers. To them were born 10 children of whom our subject was the 7th in order of birth all now deceased except the subject and one sister, Elvina who is living in West Liberty, Iowa. The subject was 8 when the family came to Indiana. He remained at the home until 18, helping clear the farm and assisting in the work about the place in the meantime attending the country subscription schools during the winter months. When 18 he went to Rockville, Indiana and entered the County Seminary from which he graduated 3 years later having carefully applied himself and making a plentiful record.  Being out of money at that time, he returned home and rented his father's farm one season having realized $280 as his share. With this he went to Rockville and began the study of law in which he made rapid progress and was licensed to practice two years later in 1842.  He located at Sullivan Indiana then the county seat but was a small village in the woods. Here he practiced with much success attending his efforts until 1847. He held the office of Prosecuting Attorney for one term of two years and was one of the leading young attorneys of that location. He then located at Palestine, Illinois where he followed his profession a period of 29 years becoming known as one of the ablest attorneys in the county and having a very extensive clientele.  He then located in Olney in November 1876 and he has since lived at this place, having built up a very large practice. He retired in 1907. While living in Crawford County, Illinois he was elected to the Lower House of the Legislature in 1850, on the Democratic and served with great credit. Such a splendid record did he make that he was nominated and triumphantly elected two years later to Congress from his district at that time the 5th district and was reelected in 1854, serving two terms making his influence felt in that body where his counsel was always respectfully listened to and often followed with gratifying results. During his first term the Kansas and Nebraska fight was up.  During the second term the defeat for slavery for Kansas was accomplished. His voice was heard in the debates of those strenuous times. In 1856 Mr. Allen was not a candidate for reelection but he became Clerk of the House during that session of Congress. In March 1860, he came home and in that year was the Democratic candidate for Governor of Illinois against Yates.  He made a splendid race and the election showed that he was a popular man throughout the state notwithstanding his defeat.  In April 1861 he was elected Judge of the Circuit Court and in the fall of 1863 resigned as Judge to accept the place of Congressman at large to which he had been elected in 1862. He was a candidate for reelection but was defeated by Samuel Moulton. During his terms in Congress he witnesses stirring times for it was while the Civil War was in progress. Returning home Mr. Allen practiced law until 1873 when he was reelected Judge to the Circuit Court and after the passage of the law establishing appellate courts he was appointed by the Supreme Court as Appellate Judge occupying both positions until 1879.  He then engaged in practice until his retirement in 1907 having liked the practice better than being on the bench.  He had been US Commissioner since 1896 for Southern & Eastern Illinois.  The happy and harmonious domestic life of our subject began January 22, 1845 when he was married to Ellen Kitchell, a native of Palestine Ill the representative of an influential family of that place.  To this union 3 children were born who died in infancy.  The subject's first wife was called to her rest in 1853 and in 1857 he married Julia Kitchell, cousin of his first wife by whom 7 children were born: Harry, who was court reporter for five years is deceased; Frances is the wife of John T. Ratcliff of Olney; Caroline is living at home keeping house for her father; James H. resides in Robinson, Illinois; Fredrick W. is deceased; William Y living at home; Margaret is also a member of the home circle. The second wife of our subject, a woman of many beautiful attributes passed away in 1901.  Mr. Allen has long been a pillar in the Presbyterian Church having been the ruling elder in the same since 1850. Thus standing out distinctly as one of the central figures of the judiciary of the great commonwealth of Illinois is the name of Hon. James Cameron Allen.  Long prominent in legal circles and equally prominent in public matters beyond the confines of his own jurisdiction with a reputation in one of the most exactly professions that has won him a name for distinguished services second to none of his contemporaries there is today no more prominent or honored figure in the southern part of the state which he has long dignified with his citizenship. Achieving success in the courts at an age when most young men are just entering upon the formative period of their lives, wearing the judicial ermine with becoming dignity and bringing to every case submitted to him a clearness of perception and ready power of analysis characteristic of the learned jurist, his name and work for half a century have been allied with legal institutions, public enterprises and political interests of the state in such a way as to earn him recognition as one of the distinguished citizens in a community noted for the high order of its legal talent.  A high purpose and an unconquerable will vigorous mental powers, diligent study and devotion to duty are some of the means by which he has made himself eminently useful.  He is honored and esteemed by all who know him for his life of honor and usefulness, his integrity, kindness and genial manners and the good he has accomplished for his state cannot be adequately expressed. - Biographical and reminiscent history of Richland, Clay and Marion Counties, Illinois, Indianapolis, Ind.: B.F. Bowen & Company, 1909, Pages 84 - 86

Herman Charles Allen was numbered among the substantial and- valued citizens of Boise and at the time of his death, which occurred on the 4th of May, 1919, was filling the position of state highway engineer. His worth as a man and in public relations caused his death to be the occasion of most deep and widespread regret. Mr. Allen was  born on a farm in Parke county, Indiana, June 2, 1870, and was the third son of Joseph and Mahala B. (Stalker) Allen. The paternal grandfather, Solomon Allen, was one of the pioneer settlers of Indiana, to which state he removed from Virginia, casting in his lot with those who were reclaiming the western frontier for the purposes of civilization. He was a farmer, wheelwright and nurseryman and he continued a resident of Parke county, Indiana, to the time of his death, which occurred in 1893, when he had reached the very venerable age of ninety-five years. His son, Joseph Allen, was born in Parke county, made farming his life work and there passed away, but the mother still survives and is living in Indianapolis, Indiana. Of their seven children, five are yet living.  Herman C. Allen, the only one who came to Idaho, was reared in his native county, where he attended a country school to the age of seventeen years, completing the work at the eighth grade, after which he took up the study of civil engineering in Purdue University at La Fayette, Indiana, in which institution he remained as a student from 1891 until 1894. He finished the work of the junior year and then left school in order to earn money with which to continue his studies but never returned to Purdue. In 1894 he went to Massachusetts, where he was employed as a draughtsman for three years, first in Springfield and later in Boston. When he again became a resident of Indiana he took up civil engineering and for a period of two decades, or from 1898 until his demise, was continuously engaged in professional work of that character, dividing his time between railroad and municipal projects having to do with his profession. He followed civil engineering in Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Montana, Wyoming and Washington, all before coming to Idaho in 1916. He was the assistant city engineer of Indianapolis from 1903 until 1907, assistant city engineer of Great Falls, Montana, for two and a half years, consulting engineer at Glasgow, Montana, and also at Sheridan, Wyoming, and for three and a half years he was located at Spokane, Washington, following his profession in both Washington and Idaho, with Spokane as the base of his operations. His excellent work as a civil engineer in this section led to his appointment as state highway engineer of Idaho, to which office he was called November 1, 1917, by the Idaho State Highway Commission. At the time of his appointment he was located at Wallace, Idaho, but subsequently removed to Boise. It is a notable fact that the west is far in advance of the east in taking over the control and management of interests which are matters of public concern. The state feels its responsibility in connection with all that has to do with the welfare, progress and upbuilding of the commonwealth and its public Interests are highly organized. Among the offices created by Idaho that have found few precedents in the east is that of state highway engineer, which position was capably filled by Herman Charles Allen, of Boise.  In 1900, at Rockvllle, Indiana, Mr. Allen was married to Miss Zoe Tenbrook, a schoolmate and acquaintance of his boyhood days. They had two sons, Wallace and Charles Joseph, aged respectively fourteen and eight years. Mr. Allen had few associations outside the strict path of his profession but was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, which indicated his high professional standing and marked ability. He was engaged in the line of his duty when death overtook him at Sprague, Washington, on the 4th of May, 1919. He had resigned his position as state highway engineer several weeks before his demise, hoping to have his resignation take effect on the 1st of May, but as his successor had not arrived to assume the duties of the position, Mr. Allen was holding over in the office.. Those who knew him, and he had a wide acquaintance throughout the state, esteemed him very highly and his genuine worth was attested by all with whom he came in contact. - History of Idaho: the gem of the mountains, Volume 4, Pages 05 & 06 -  edited by James Henry Hawley, 1920

ALLEN, Joseph, farmer, Coloma, is the son of Solomon Allen, who is one of the pioneers of Parke County.  He was born in Parke County on April 15, 1833, and has lived close to his birthplace all his life.  His occupation has been that of a farmer.  He owns 180 acres of fine improved land.  In 1857, he was married to Miss Mahala STALKER, of Highland County, Ohio  born July 30, 1837, and by this union they have six children: Marianne; Addie; Tacy J; Layton; Burgess and Harmann.  The family are members of the Friends Society, and are respected by all who know them.    (Beadle, J.H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers reprinted 1977 by The Bookmark, Knightstown IN).

Samuel A. ALLEN, an influential farmer of Union Township, Poweshiek County is one of the oldest living settlers and pioneers of this region.  He has resided over 40 years in this state and since 1864 has been a resident of Union Township.  He purchased at that time 106 acres of good land in Section 20 where he has since made his home. He has greatly improved and developed the land, and upon it has substantial and commodious buildings and he now owns 586 acres. Samuel Allen was the sixth in order of birth in a family of thirteen children born to Isam and Martha (Montgomery) Allen, the former born in NC in May 1793 and latter in Virginia in Jan 1798.  Our subject's birth occurred in Morgan County, Kentucky, in 1827 and when a child his parents removed to Parke County, Indiana where he grew to manhood. In the War of 1812 his father enlisted in the American cause serving for six months.  His father in turn, whose name was Isaac was an agriculturist as the family had been for many generations past.  His ancestors emigrated from England and he as well as our subject's maternal grandfather, John Montgomery served in the Revolutionary War.  The family of 13 of whom our subject is one, all grew to mature years and two of his brothers, Isam and William enlisted in the 40th Iowa Infantry in 1862 and one of them served until the close of the war.  In Indiana Nov 18, 1847, a wedding ceremony united the fortunes of Samuel A. Allen and Sarah J, a daughter of Zachariah and Mary (Taylor) Barnes who had removed to Indiana at an early day from Kentucky.  On beginning their married life, Mr. and Mrs. Allen had but limited means, the wife having as her dowry the proverbial cow and our subject having but little more capital than a horse.  Today, as they with just pride view their broad acres and well-cultivated fields, which stretch in all directions from their hospitable home, they feel that "truly goodness and mercy have attended their pathway," and have blessed with abundant success the years of industry and toil which have brought to them the competency which is now theirs. In 1852 they located in Mahaska County, Iowa where they made their home 12 years and since that time have resided in Union Twp.  They are active members of the old Christian Church at Forest Home.  Politically Mr. Allen is a stanch Democrat having been an active worker in his party's interests since becoming a voter. Socially, he is a member of the Masonic fraternity and personally is entitled to the goodwill and confidence of his friends and neighbors on account of the upright career and honorable life he has led among them.  Of the 7 children who graced the union of Mr. and Mrs. Allen, four are still living.  William L is a resident of this township; Mary A, the wife of Thomas Farmer, died leaving two children, Martha died in her girlhood; Isam T is next in order of birth; Joseph R. is deceased; Bailey A. is married and makes his home with his father; and Irvin C. is a resident of the county. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Johnson, Poweshiek and Iowa Counties, Iowa.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 634

ALLEN, Solomon, farmer, Coloma, is one of the old and most respected pioneers of Parke County.  He was born in Shenandoah County, Virginia, October20, 1796, and when he was 11 years of age his parents removed to Warren County, Ohio  and in 1816 to Green County, Ohio .  In 1826 they emigrated to Parke County, Indiana and settled in Reserve Township on the farm where Mr. Allen now lives.  They first settled in a camp in the woods, having at that time entered 80 acres of land, on which they built a log cabin, and began life in the woods with a capital of but 87 cents in money and a limited amount of household goods.  But being endowed with a determined will, backed up by a robust constitution they were not long in making a home for themselves.  In a few years they set out a nursery, from which they supplied a great many of the first orchards that were set out in an early day through this part of the country.  Mr. Allen has been twice married in 1818; he was married to Amy WOODY, a native of Virginia, born in 1788, and died in Parke Co. 1872.  He has a counterpane for which she picked the cotton, carded, spun and wove it before their marriage; it has been in constant use ever since.  He married his present wife in 1873.  Her name formerly was Peggy MORRIS.  Mr. Allen is now in his 84th year.  He is in good health for a man of his age, and has a retentive memory.  He was formerly an old line Whig until the organization of the Republican Party, since which time he has acted in unison with that party.   (Beadle, J.H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers reprinted 1977 by The Bookmark, Knightstown IN).

ALLEN, Rufus , farmer and wagon maker, Bridgeton, was born in Hartford CT October 26, 1831 and is the son of Samuel and Julia (KING) Allen.  Mr. Allen's father was a stonemason and did a large business on canals and other public buildings and enterprises, working sometimes 300 and 400 hands.  He lost considerable money by the dishonesty of his partner.  He was born in NY and lived in Connecticut, Mass, Ohio and settled in Terre Haute 1838 and lived there until he died in 1862.   He was an eminent Mason, and a generous, esteemed man.  Mr.  Allen's mother was a member of the Presbyterian Church and died in 1837 or 1838.  Mr. Allen had a limited education, obtained in the old log schoolhouse.  The most of his boyhood was spent on the farm.  At 18 years of age, he was thrown on his own resources.  He learned the wagon-making trade and settled in Bridgeton in 1849.  He went in debt for tools and timber to work with, and afterward did a large business for the size of the village.  In 1879, on account of his health, he moved on the farm where he now lives.  He was married the first time, November20, 1856 to Martha PAYNE.  She was born in Raccoon Township in 1834died January 15, 1872.  By this marriage their children were: Warren K., born November20, 1857, diedSeptember5, 1859; Arthur D, January 31, 1859; Frederic E, December1, 1861; John M August 28, 1863; James P.,  September2, 1865; Harvey R July 6, 1867.  Mr. Allen was married the second time, October28, 1875 to Amerrilla WEBSTER, daughter of Samuel and Beluina Webster.  Mr. Allen enlisted in Co. C 78th Indiana Volunteers for 60 days was captured and immediately paroled.  He reenlisted in the 133d Ind. Volunteers for 100 days and served four months.  He is a leading Mason, has held the offices of Sr. Deacon and all the rest up to master.  He has been master 6 years.  In politics he is a pronounced national.  He is an omnivorous reader and a strong temperance man.  In religion he is an ardent infidel, believing in science, progress, and the virtues of an upright life and good character.  Beadle, J. H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo & Parke County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers

George W. Alexander is engaged in carrying on his well-improved farm of 157 acres on Section 16, Sugar Creek Twp, Parke County.  He has lived on this place since 1861, or shortly after his marriage.  Our subject was born in Guilford County, North Carolina on August 29, 1832, being the son of Joseph and Catherine Alexander Alexander who were 3rd cousins.  The former was the son of James and Nancy Alexander, Grandfather Alexander was born in Ireland and his wife was a native of Scotland. They both came to the united States with their parents when young, settling in the eastern part of NC where they were married. James Alexander learned the miller's trade before leaving the Emerald Isle, and followed that occupation throughout life.  For many years he owned a mill in NC, but at the time of his death was only superintendent of one. he was a Whig and opposed to slavery, though a resident of the southern state. His father was a soldier in the War of the Revolution.  Our subjects father was one in a family of 8 children, the others being Gideon, Jonathan, Calvin, Abbie, Sally and two who died in infancy.  They are all now deceased.  Joseph Alexander learned the shoemaker's trade in early life, serving an apprenticeship at the same. he married when about 22 and had 8 children, our subject being the eldest, and the other in order of birth being as follows: Mary, James C, Nancy J, Martha, Catherine L, Joseph F and one who died in infancy. After the death of our subject's mother, his father married a Miss Hamilton by whom he had four children. He was, like his father, a Whig, and religiously held membership with the Methodist Episcopal Church.  He died at age 60.  George W. Alexander was only 12 years old when his mother died and soon after he was bound out to Jaben Erwin to learn the carpenter's trade. For him he worked, receiving only his board and clothes for 8 years and then continued in his employ about 3 years afterward. Until 1861 he was engaged in carpentering, since which time he has turned his attention almost entirely to agricultural pursuits, and has even succeeded better in this vocation than in the former one.  His skill, however, with carpenter tools has proved very useful to him time and again in the construction and repair of his buildings.  In 1860 Mr. Alexander and Martha A. Bacus were joined in marriage.  Mrs. Alexander was born on the farm where she still lives in the year 1839.  Her parents James and Margaret Irwin Bacus, were natives of Ohio and VA, respectively, being early settlers of Parke County. This farm was entered of the Government as school land in 1835, and every bit of the place was cleared by Mr. Bacus. The house or cabin which he first erected was very small and of the rudest description, but in time was replaced with a much more pretentious residence. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander are the parents of two children: James B, whose wife was formerly Miss Fanny Delphina Pithoud; and Flora A, wife of Chauncy Lusk. Our subject is extremely proud of his four little grandchildren. he is a member of Lodge No. 27, AF &AM Annapolis. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 651

ALEXANDER, Z. H., farmer, Bellmore, was born August 7, 1834, in Boone County, Indiana, and is the son of John and Sarah (TIBBERGIN) Alexander.  His father died when the boy was 4, and he was raised by Joseph PRUITT in Putnam Co.  He passed his youthful years on the farm, gaining but little knowledge of books.  In after years he followed carpentering and blacksmithing for a livelihood; then made farming his permanent occupation.  He is now living on and owning the farm for whose owner he worked when a young man.  He has 100 acres in Section20 and 114 acres in Section19.  In 1858 he married Abagail, daughter of John and Margaret (CROOKS) MILLER.  Mrs. Alexander was born January 5, 1838 on the home farm, in Section29.  They have 5 children: Jane E; Laura B; Mary E; John B and William C.  Mr. Alexander is democratic, yet has ever been on the side of the north in relation to war matters.  He did not go to the army on account of the needs of his family.  He went to Terre Haute to enlist at one time, but the township being paid out he returned to his family.  Both he and his wife are members of the united Brethren IN Christ Church.  John Miller, parent of Mrs. Alexander was born in Franklin Co,VirginiaOctober6, 1801.  He was a son of John and Phebe Miller.  They moved from Virginia to Butler Co., Ohio when John, Jr. was 6 weeks old and from there they went to Union County, IN.  At the age of 20 John Jr. left his parents and came to Parke County, where he was bound to his brother, Tobias till he should reach his majority, which would be one year.  At the end of six months he bought his time and in 1821 he entered land on Section29 and 30, in Union Township.  Soon after he built a cabin and his people moved out and bought his place.  He then entered what is now the George MATER farm and in 1838 built the large brick house now owned by Mr. Mater.  He sold this place to Jesse K. BLAKE and bought an improved farm, now owned by Joseph NEAL.  He married Margaret CROOKS December25, 1823 and became father of 14 children.  His wife died May 24, 1866 aged 61 years.  In 1867 he was married to Abagail NORMAN who is now in Iowa.  He died April 18, 1875.  He was a member of the Baptist Church for many years, a consistent Christian and held in high esteem by members of the church and by those who knew him and was one of the first settlers of Union Township. - Unknown Source

Tilghman Howard ANDERSON is the owner of two farms which adjoin and which comprise 300 acres, 200 of which are in Washington Township and 100 in Adams, Parke County.  Our subject, however, resides at Rockville, the county seat, having a fine place of 15 acres which is within the limits of the village and here Mr. Anderson makes a specialty of raising fruit and fish.  Our subject was born on the old homestead owned by his father, Henry H. Anderson who was the oldest settler of the county when he died as he arrived here in 1819.  He settled with his parents on a farm 3 miles south of Rockville, on the Little Raccoon River and cleared a farm in the wilderness.  The father of our subject was born in Logan County KY Nov 28, 1813 and is the son of Henry Anderson who migrated to the Blue Grass region from Tennessee at a very early day.  Our subject's grandfather was the first sheriff of Parke County, and one of the founders of the Presbyterian Church in Rockville.  He married Elizabeth BALCH.  He entered land of the Government after his arrival in this locality and on this he resided until his death about 1846.  Our subject's father grew to manhood in this county and lived under the parental roof until his marriage to Melinda, daughter of William ALLEN who was a native Kentuckian where he resided until his death.  After Mr. Anderson's marriage he located on the Little Raccoon River where he lived a few years and then removed to a place near Rockville.  This was his home until he was called from his life, June 25, 1889.  He had a family of 8, two of whom died in infancy and four are left: Marcellus H. lives on the old homestead, as does his brother Henry H.  The daughters who died were Mary and Margaret.  Our subject's mother departed life July 2, 1888.  The father owned about 300 acres a very fine farm and well improved, the most of which was cleared by himself.  He was a Democrat and religiously was a Presbyterian.  A man of temperate and moral habits, he was possessed of great strength and integrity of character and so well did he bring up his children that none of them have ever used tobacco.  TH Anderson was born March 7, 1840 on his father's homestead and his education was acquired in the common schools of Rockville.  In 1862 he wedded Mary, daughter of David ELDER, who was a well known farmer and cattle dealer of the locality.  After his marriage, our subject settled on the farm belonging to his wife's father, as she was the only child and her parents desired her to live with them. They were quite successful as long as they continued together but Mr. Anderson preferred to leave at the end of 3 years for his wife was called from this life May 25, 1861 leaving one child, who died soon after the mother. For the 4 succeeding years our subject continued in farming after which he removed to the village where he still turned his attention somewhat to agricultural pursuits. He was so successful in his business undertakings that he felt justified in erecting a fine residence which was built at a cost of $10,000 but this was unfortunately destroyed by fire.  In 1885 he removed to the place where he still resides.  August 12, 1866 Mr. Anderson married Miss Martha JOHNSON who was born in Union Township where her father David had a well cultivated farm.  Four children were born two of whom died in infancy.  Mamie became the wife of Frederick HEATH of Indianapolis.  She departed this life April 6, 1892. The other child, Everett J, lives at home.  The mother died March 9, 1893 at Morristown, Tennessee, where she had gone for her health.  She had been for many years a member of the Baptist Church and was a lady of culture and noble character.  At the present time Mr. Anderson is engaged in looking after his farming interests and in trading, buying and selling real estate.  He is a member of the Knights of Pythias and is a Democrat in his political faith. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 295

ANGELL, Anderson R., farmer, Bellmore, was born in Franklin County, Virginia on September1, 1840 and is the son of Alsop T. and Liony (DODD) Angell.  His paternal grandfather was in the war of 1812.  He also traces his ancestry back to the nobility of England.  June, 1862, he enlisted in Co K, 42nd Virginia Vol. Inf. under Stonewall Jackson.  After the death of Jackson he was under Lee.  He fought in the two Winchester battles and the 7 days' fight before Richmond under Jackson and at Gettysburg under Lee.  He was wounded at Cedar Mountain in the left shoulder, and disabled for duty 9 months.  He went back to the lines on his recovery, and was captured at Spottylsvania Courthouse.  He was one of 600 taken to Morris Island, SC as a subject of retaliation, and placed under fire of the confederate guns for 42 days.  He was removed to Ft. Pulaski, GA and remained till March 1, 1865, as a subject of retaliation.  June 23, 1865 he was sent back to Ft. Delaware and released upon taking the oath of allegiance to the United States.  He came from Virginia to Putnam County, Indiana in 1866 and to Parke County, Union Township 1867.  He was married to Mary L. KINSEY January 22, 1861 and has 8 children: Lillia J; George T; John W; Mary R; Frances L; Nellie F; Robert L and David F.  He is a member of the Baptist church and tries to live right toward the church, God, and the world.  His politics are democratic. - Unknown Source

W. H. H. ASBURY, who for a quarter of a century has been engaged in the real estate business in Ottumwa was born in Parke County, Indiana April 4, 1841.  This was the day upon which General William Henry Harrison died and Mr. Asbury was named in his honor.  His parents were Benjamin and Polly (Porter) Asbury, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Kentucky.  They were married in the Bluegrass state and started overland to the Wabash Valley, establishing their home in Vermilion County, Indiana whence they afterward removed to Parke County.  In 1850 they came to Iowa, settling in Monroe County where they spent the greater part of their lives, although the father died in Ringgold County.  He was a blacksmith by trade, having served an apprenticeship of 9 years.  In later life he engaged both in blacksmithing and in farming.  During the Civil War he served with the 37th Iowa Regiment, known as the Gray Beards a regiment which was largely engaged in guard duty.  His father, Joseph Asbury was a soldier of the Revolutionary War and was with Washington's Army during the memorable winter at Valley Forge.  For 5 years altogether he was on active duty under Washington. His birth occurred at Fairfax County Virginia and his entire life was passed in that state.  The mother of our subject was a granddaughter of Robert Porter who served as Sgt in the Revolutionary War under General Broadhead.  In the family of Benjamin and Polly Asbury were born 5 children: Emily who is the widow of Leonard Clary of Keokuk County Iowa and is now 81; Thomas Payne of Ringgold County; W. H. H.; Mary Ann, the widow of Harrison Neidigh of Ringgold and Benjamin F of Albia, Iowa.  W. H. H. Asbury spent his youthful days in his parents' home remaining with them until he enlisted in response to the country's first call for 3 months' troops.  He did not go to the front, however until August 1861 at which time he was a member of Co E 3rd Iowa Cavalry.  He enlisted at Bloomfield and was honorable discharge in October 1862.  Mr. Asbury then returned home and farmed for awhile.  He then went to Blakesburg where he entered the drug business with his older brother, continuing in that line for 3 years.  He next came to Ottumwa and on the 1st day of January 1870 was made deputy sheriff which position he capably filled.  Later he was made deputy treasurer and at the close of the term was elected county treasurer for four years.  Subsequently he again accepted the position of deputy treasurer remaining 10 years in the court house.  In 1880 he entered the insurance and real estate business and in 1889 he was appointed internal revenue collector for this district.  When his term in that office expired he resumed active connection with the real estate business in which he has since been engaged.  In 1910 he was again called to public office, when he was made supervisor of the census for the 7th Congressional district in which position he had 160 men and women under him.  He has always given his political support to the Republican Party and has been most loyal to its principles.  On the 5th day of May 1867, Mr. Asbury united in marriage to Miss Mary E. JAY, who was born in Miami County Ohio July 26, 1841 and in 1854 was brought to Wapello County by her parents, Jabe P. and Rachel Commons Jay who were natives of Ohio and Indiana respectively.  They were of the Quaker faith and their lives were of the highest integrity.  They continued residents of this county until called to the home beyond. In their family were 10 children, 6 of whom reached adult age.  Mrs. Asbury attended Quaker school until she came to Iowa where she made her home continuously for 60 years.  Mr. and Mrs. Asbury have lost 3 children who die din infancy while Bertha who was born May 8, 1881 passed away April 8, 1903 when almost 22.  Mr. Asbury belongs to the Unitarian Church while his wife is a member of the Presbyterian. He holds membership in Cloutman Post GAR also in the Masonic lodge and Sons of the American Revolution.  Progress and patriotism might be termed his salient characteristics.  It may be that he inherited the spirit with is name, at any rate, he has many of the substantial qualities which made the hero of Tippecanoe famous.  - History of Wapello County, Iowa.  Chicago: SJ Clarke, 1914, Page 248

Samuel ATKINSON.  Among the enterprising farmers of Parke County is ranked our subject, whose birth occurred here in 1835.  He comes of an honored pioneer family, his father, Thomas Atkinson, having settled in this locality about the year 1828, when he entered land in Sugar Creek Township and also purchased 500 acres.  Our subject's paternal grandmother was Mary (Woody) Atkinson, her father, John Woody, being a leading man in North Carolina in former days.  Our subject's grandfather was born in England and emigrated to America when a young man, settling in North Carolina, where he engaged in farming and there passed his remaining days.  He reared a family of 8 children, our subject's father being the eldest and the others as follows: Hugh; James; Robert; Samuel; John (only one still living); Charity and Mary.  Thomas Atkinson was born in 1796 and remained with his parents until he grew to manhood.  He was reared a Quaker, his parents being of that faith.  About the year 1819, leaving home, he concluded to try his fortunes in another state, and accordingly came to Indiana, settling in Orange County, where he married Margery, daughter of David and Hannah Lindley.  To them were born 8 children: Jonathan; David; Samuel and John, twins; Mary, wife of Levi Dix; Sarah; Mrs. Thomas Marshall; Eleanor, who died in childhood and Emily.  The father was a Whig until the organization of the Republic party, when he became identified with the same.  Landing in Indiana without capital or friends, he worked for a time for farmers, receiving $10 a month, but he was persevering and industrious and these qualities in the course of time wrought out for him a gratifying success.  After a time he removed to Green County where he carried on a small farm and then as before mentioned, became the owner of a large estate in Parke County.  His death occurred in 1872, several years previous to which his wife had departed this life.  Until reaching manhood, our subject remained with his parents being of great assistance to his father in clearing and developing his new farm.  His education was such as was afforded by the primitive log schoolhouse of former days.  On starting out in life his father gave him 100 acres of land, which was then only partly improved.  His place now comprises 138 acres which is well cultivated and a model farm in every respect.  At the age of 29 our subject married Miss Martha, daughter of William Hadley.  Nine children grace their union: Milton who married Thelia Barker; Cora; Etta, wife of John McKey; Clayton; William; Oliver; Clara and two who died in infancy.  Our subject is a member of the Society of Friends, as have been his ancestors for several generations.  In politics he is a stanch supporter of the Republic party.  David Atkinson, the next older brother of our subject, is also a resident of Sugar Creek Township, his farm, which comprises 90 acres, a portion of his father's old homestead, being located on Section 6.  He remained by the home fireside until over 20 years of age, when he started out to make his own livelihood.  The education which is his has been largely the result of study and reading in later years, as the schools of his young days were few and poorly conducted.  When 22 he was united in marriage with Mary, daughter of William Marshall, and of that union have been born six children: Elizabeth; Louisa, wife of John Noonan; Cyrenus, Elwood, John and Effie.  Mr. Atkinson deposits his ballot in favor of the Republic Party and religiously is a member of the Society of Friends.  - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain County, Indiana, 1893 Chapman Brothers Page 272

John ATKINSON.  Those who have passed a score of years in the vicinity of Bolton are familiar with the name introducing this article.  Its owner is one of the modest farmers of Independence Twp and is situated on Section 30, Township 33, Rg 15.  He cast his fortunes with Montgomery County in August 1881, and is an emigrant from Parke County, Indiana, where his birth occurred November 26, 1834.  His father, Thomas Atkinson, settled in the wooded country of Parke County in 1831, and was one of those who spent his life battling against nature and with nature in the physical development of his section of the Hoosier State.    He was born in Orange County North Carolina in 1796 and died 1871, just as he was nearing his home while returning from a visit to his native heath (sic - hearth?).  He was a son of John Atkinson of North Carolina Quaker stock, whose antecedents separated from the parent church in Pennsylvania and established! themselves in the 'Tar Heel State."  Thomas Atkinson married Marjorie Lindley, a daughter of David Lindley, also from North Carolina.  The children of this marriage were: Johnathan; Mary wife of Levi Dix; Sarah whose first husband was Thomas Marshall and second, Mr. Bedford; Dixon; David of Parke County, Indiana; Eleanor who died single; Samuel and John, twins and Emily of Parke County, Indiana.  John Atkinson of this sketch, attained his majority on the farm of his parents in which community he acquired a good common school education.  He accepted the calling of his fathers as his own and devoted himself intelligently to the tilling of the soil.  For a life companion he chose, in February 1863, Mary Ellen ATKINSON daughter of Hiram and Amy Marshall Atkinson, who has shared with him his successes as well as reverses for 40 years. In company with the Lindleys and Towells they came to Montgomery County in 1881, and have since resided on their farm.  Mr. Atkinson is a minister of the Friends Church and has served his community in that capacity.  He is comfortable i n his surroundings enjoys the luxuries of natural gas, as a citizen, is interested in the civil affairs of his municipality.  - Jno S Gilmore; H W Young.  History of Montgomery County, Kansas.  Unknown: L. W. Duncan, 1903,Page 696

Hiram AUSTIN was born in Portage County, Ohio November 27, 1820 and there resided, attended school and worked on his father's farm for the first few years of his life; teaching school for a time when but 17.  His taste running in the direction of mechanical studies at the age of 20 he commenced surveying.  In 1852 he left Portage for Park (sic) County, Indiana and here began the dairying and cheese making business, combining therewith some engineering and surveying.  He resided there for 4 years, when he moved to Columbia County, Wisconsin where he opened a prairie farm and resided until 1859 when he moved to Macoupin County, Illinois and there embarked in farming and surveying. In December, 1861 he came to California via Panama, and at once took up a residence in Marin County.  He engaged in farming in Bolinas for 3years when in 1864, he was elected County Surveyor on the Republican ticket. In 1865 he moved his residence to San Rafael.  Mr. Austin has been County Surveyor until the election of 1879 and during his terms of office has done much valuable service among others the completion of a very correct and handsome county map. - History of Marin County, California: San Francisco, Calif.: Alley, Bowen & Company, 1880, Page 452

George W. AYDELOTT has a fine and well-stocked farm, keeping cattle, sheep, hogs and horse, his homestead being located on Section 7, Union Township, Parke County.  Our subject is a native of Indiana and an early settler of this county. His birth occurred November15, 1828 in Putnam County, only 200 yards from the line dividing that from Parke. Our subject's father, William A, was born December 1, 1799 in Garrard County, Kentucky. In 1828 he removed to Indiana, taking up land in this county, a tract of about 80 acres, where he erected a small log house and carried on a blacksmith shop on the place for 20 years or more. Selling out about 1850, he removed to Bellmore, where he spent some time and then removed to Rockville. During his last years he lived with his children, dying at the home of our subject March 3, 1871. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church to which his wife also belonged. Our subject's mother, who bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Burks, was born July 1796 in Kentucky. where she passed her girlhood, and in which state her marriage was celebrated September 9, 1823. She died May 16, 1873. 12 children were born to her, eight of whom grew to adult years only two of the family now living, our subject and his brother, John A., a resident of Rockville. The former was fourth in order of birth, and his school privileges were of the primitive kind. He assisted his father in the work of the farm and when only 10 years of age commenced to plow and did considerable teaming, going to Lafayette and hauling wheat, for which he received sometimes not more than 12 and a half cents a bushel. He remained on the homestead until he was 21 giving all his time to his father. On October 24, 1850, our subject married Miss Ann, daughter of Thomas and Rebecca Crawford Woolverton.  The former was a native of Virginia. and was reared in Ohio near Cincinnati. His wife, who is of Irish descent, is still living, though 83. She was born in Union County, Indiana where she was married in March 1827 and soon after that event the worthy couple located in Union Township, Parke County. She is still making her home in the same old house, and is active though so advanced in years. She has been the mother of 10 children, six daughter, four sons, 9 of whom grew to mature years.  Mrs. Aydelott is the second in order of birth in this family, having been born February 19, 1830, in Union Township, Parke. She attended the old log schoolhouses of the neighborhood here grew to womanhood. Soon after his marriage our subject located on Section 7, Union Township on the property he still owns. The young couple commenced housekeeping in a log cabin, where they remained until removing to their present place in 1853. Here he had erected a small house of round logs, 20 x 20 feet, this being all the improvement then on the farm. He bought the place without paying a dollar, as he had no money but gave his note for the land. For two years he had only one horse and occasionally had to borrow one. His place now comprised 403 acres, all under good cultivation, this being the result of his long years of assiduous and unremitting energy. Mr. Aydelott makes a specialty of raising sheep, now having about 300 head.  To our worthy subject and his wife were born three children, a son & two daughters. Mary E. died when 1 year and 8 months. Charles M., born in 1857 married Edith Steel who died leaving a son and daughter, the former, Beulah, dying when 8 and the latter, Claude M. now making his home with our subject. Rebecca J. died at age 11 months. Our subject is politically, a Democrat and has been Constable and Supervisor. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, his wife being a Dunkard, as were her parents before her. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 578