Parke County, Indiana Biographies

John R. BAER, who has been an active factor in business and official circles but is now living retired in Oskaloosa, is a native son of Indiana, having been born in Rockville, Parke County, on 11 March 1839. His father, George W. Baer, was a native of Virginia and when a young man went to Ohio where he remained until after his marriage to Elizabeth Lundy, native of that state. Soon, however, they removed to Parke County, Indiana and in 1843, went to Sarcoxie, Missouri. In the fall of 1845, they came to Oskaloosa which was then a small village having few business enterprises and but a small number of houses. The father followed the tailor's trade for a short time and then engaged in general merchandising while alter he bought sold and shipped stock for many years. In this way he accumulated a handsome competency but he lost his capital by financially accommodating a friend. In early life he was an old-line Whig and under the laws of Iowa filled the office of collector and treasurer of the county for one term, acting in the latter capacity 1847-48. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and died in that faith in 1892 at the age of 78. His wife, an earnest Christian woman passed away May 1855 when 35, dying of cholera. In their family were 7 children of whom 3 are living: John R; Amelia, who is the widow of Reason Wilson of Oskaloosa; and George W. of the Indian Territory. Those deceased: Rebecca, wife of John W. Murphy; Mary; Martha Henrietta and Loyd. George W. Baer had two children: Elizabeth the wife of LD Fowler of Washington D. C. and Byron of Nebraska. John R. Baer was educated in the public schools and when a boy began clerking for the firm of Hardy, Searle & Young with whom he remained 3 years. He afterward spent two years on his father's farm in Oskaloosa Township and was next employed by Benjamin Roop until spring of 1860 when he drove across the country with ox teams to a town 75 miles west of Denver, Colorado there prospecting for gold. In the fall, however, he returned in the same manner to Oskaloosa, being 52 days on the outgoing trip and 31 on the return. He then became a clerk for George M. Downs of this city the store being on the present site of the courthouse. In the previous fall he cast a vote for Abraham Lincoln which was his first ballot. He continued clerking until 15 July 1861. On that date Mr. Baer, responding to his country's call for troops, became a member of Company C, 7th Iowa Volunteer Infantry which was the 2nd company raised in Mahaska County. He was present with his regiment at the capture of Forts Henry and Donelson, in the battle of Shiloh and the siege and battle of Corinth. He also participated in the battle at Pulaski, Tennessee where he was detailed for service in the commissary department under Capt. Palmer and Hon. C. C. Carpenter, ex-governor of Iowa and thus acted until mustered out 10 August 1864 at Chattanooga, Tennessee. When the war was over Mr. Baer returned to Oskaloosa and clerked for the firm of Jones & Tullis in a general store for two years. In the meantime Mr. Tullis purchased his partner's interest and Mr. Baer bought the interest of John W. Tullis and the firm of Tullis & Baer was formed and so continued for a year. At the end of that time our subject sold his interest to his partner and began dealing in stock which he bought and shipped for 3 years. He next removed to Beacon, this county where he became a clerk in the coal company's store owned by the firm of Evans, Jones & Baer, the last name being his father. After 3 years the father sold out and John R. withdrew from the store and joined his father in the partnership of Baer & Son. Two years later the father sold his interest to JP Davis and the firm of Davis & Baer existed one and a half years. The junior partner then returned to Oskaloosa and became a bookkeeper in the hardware store of C. Cooper, by whom he was employed for two years. He was next deputy sheriff of Mahaska County for a year and a half under Sheriff Barr, and when his former employer sold his hardware store to WH Todd, Mr. Baer returned to the store where he acted as bookkeeper for a year when the business was sold to Knapp & Spaulding. Mr. Baer then went upon the road as a traveling salesman until the fall of 1885 when he was elected on the republican ticket to the position of county auditor, which he filled 4 years, proving a capable official and retired from the office as he had entered it - with the confidence and good will of all concerned. Reentering commercial life, he went upon the road for George Hall & Co, wholesale hardware dealers with whom he continued for 2 years and later on the road for Huber & Kalbach Company, hardware dealers 2 years. He afterward served as deputy county auditor under JB Cruzen and WT Martin, filling the office for 8 years or until January 1905, since which time he has lived retired. On 8 November1866, Mr. Baer was married to Miss Frances Carnahan, native of Ohio who died in1900 at age 52. Their children: Nellie A, wife of CC pike of Oskaloosa; Grace L, wife of C. W. Carr of the same city; Bernice L. Mr. Baer belongs to Triluminar lodge No 18, AF & AM, having been made a Mason in 1866. He also holds membership relations with Phil Kearney post GAR and in politics is a stalwart republican, having stood loyally by the party which was the chief defense of the Union and of the administration during the dark days of the Civil War. He is a representative citizen of the town and county, interested in all movements which are a matter of civic pride, and his efforts in behalf of general improvement and progress have been effective and far reaching. - Past & Present of Mahaska County Iowa. Chicago: S. J. Clarke, 1906, Page 137

Elsewhere in these pages occur references to Samuel Nixon BAKER, who emigrated from Shelby County, Kentucky to Parke County in 1830. He was born December 16, 1799 and died July 17, 1860. He was married to Catherine MOORE in 1827. She was born at Shelbyville June 11, 1801 and was the daughter of Abram Moore. Catherine Moore was a real "daughter of the Revolution" and at least a "sister" of the War of 1812. Her father, who was born in Lancaster Co Pennsylvania September 4, 1756 enlisted in Capt. William Washington's company of Minute Men at Shepherdstown Virginia April 29, 1775 - just 10 days after the battle of Lexington and as soon as the news could reach Virginia. He re-enlisted in Col. Smallwood's regiment in Jan 1776 while serving with the army then besieging Boston. He was in the battle of Long Island and crossed the Delaware with Washington December 25, 1776; reenlisted July 1, 1777 in Capt. David Poore's company at Frederick, Maryland for six weeks. Applied for pension 1833, pension granted June 10, 1833 Shelby County, Kentucky. Such is the military record of Catherine Baker's father in the U. S. War Dept; but her brother, John Moore who left home with his Kentucky. comrades when Catherine was 11 has no record beyond the word "missing." He was last seen by his comrades at the Battle of the River Raising January 1813, among the prisoners, and that night many of these were massacred by Indians. The children of Samuel N. and Catherine baker were Mary Frances (Strose); James Henry; John William; Samuel Nixon; Elizabeth (Catlin); Charles Holiday and George Clark. Their second son was Lt. John W. Baker of the 14th Indiana Regiment. James H. and Charles H. are living in Rockville. Samuel and Catherine Baker were zealous members of the Methodist Church in Rockville. Catherine died February 21, 1863 and at her funeral the Rev. William Y. Allen who was born one year before Catherine Moore's birth in the same town and had known her for almost 80 years said a beautiful tribute to the playmate of his childhood and the exemplary Christian woman whom everybody held in veneration. - 1816-1916 Parke County Indiana Centennial Memorial. Rockville: Rockville Chautauqua Association, 1916, Page 103

BALDRIDGE, John H, physician, Rosedale, was born November 9, 1840, in Morgansville, Morgan County, Ohio . His father, John A. Baldridge, was born July 20, 1810 in Belmont County, Ohio . His early days were spent in and around Morgansville on a farm. His education was such as could be obtained at the common schools. After leaving their father's farm he and his brother invested their money in a gristmill. After one year's experience here he engaged in the mercantile business in Morgansville in connection with studying medicine, beginning in 1840. He commenced the practice of his profession in 1841 or 1842, and has ever since held this as his principal occupation. His first few years were spent in Morgansville and Harrietsville, leaving the latter place for Athens County, and this for Delaware, where he practiced two years. In 1852 he moved to Sullivan County, Indiana, Jackson Township, and here purchased a farm, which he oversees in connection with his practice. In 1834 he was married to Eliza LEEPER, and became the father of four children: Robert A, David L, John H and Eliza. His wife died August 1843. Since the death of his first wife he married Mary LOVET. They have had 4 children: John A, Eva, Emma and Lizzie. He is a Presbyterian and a Republican. Mr. Baldridge lived with his parents until he was 25 years of age, having prior to this time been engaged in assisting upon his father's farm and attending the district school of the country and that of Farmersburg. He was studying medicine with his father until February 28, 1868 which marks the date of his arrival in Roseville to engage in the practice of medicine, which he continued until December 1875 at which time he moved to Terre Haute and for a short time was engaged in practice. He is now stationed in Rosedale, where he has a splendid practice and is accepted by all as an excellent physician. In the winter of 1872-3 he attended a course of lectures at the Cincinnati Eclectic Medical Institute and graduated from that institution February 4, 1873. April 1, 1869, he was married to Gelena M. CHALLIS, eldest daughter of Ebenezer and Charlotte (GOOKINS) Challis. By this union they have become the parents of 7 children: Arthur, Leonidas, Claude, Harley, Orin, Maud and Odus. He is a Mason, joining at Roseville in 1873. Mr. Baldridge was a member of Company D, 43 Indiana Volunteer. Infantry having enlisted at Terre Haute September 29, 1864 and was mustered out at Indianapolis June 14, 1865. He is a strong republican, having for some time been central committeeman For Florida Township.

Robert BALDWIN. Among the influential and well-to-do farmers of Wabash Twp is Mr. Baldwin, who, five years ago, became the owner of a farm comprising 80 acres on Section 13 for which he paid $5,000. The farm is all under good cultivation, and yields the owner an abundant income in return for the care bestowed upon it. Very early in life he began to carve out his own fortune, working as a farm hand at 75 cents per day and the second year receiving $12.50 a month. The last year of his hiring out to farmers he received $18 a month. In 1877 he rented a farm which he carried on in connection with others for a number of years or until 1888, when as previously stated, he became the owner of his present farm. Mr. Baldwin was born near Montezuma, Parke County December 10, 1858 and is a son of John and Sarah A. CLARK Baldwin. Grandfather Baldwin emigrated from England in the colonial days and followed the trade of a wagon maker. In the pioneer days, when Indiana was still a territory he came here from Ohio, dying in the village of New Harmony when at an advanced age. His wife passed away at Grayville, Illinois after having attained an advanced age. They reared a family of eight children: John; Abram; Edwin; William; Charles; Harriet wife of Hiram Dunning; Ester wife of Mr. Ferguson and Fanny, Mrs. Charles Russell. Our subject's father was born in Gibson Co and also followed the trade of a wagon maker. About 1845 he removed to Montezuma where he carried on his trade until shortly before his death in 1871, at age 45, his wife surviving about 8 years and dying in January 1878. She was the mother of 5: Jane, Mrs. F. M. Jacks of Custer County, Nebraska, William who died at age 24, leaving a son Edward; Frederick who died at age 31; James also a resident of Custer County, Nebraska and Robert. Our subject's mother was born near Rockville, Parke County and was a daughter of Mr. Clark, who emigrated from England to the United States. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Robert Baldwin was reared in Montezuma and educated in the public schools. He was only 11 when he left home to make his own living. On April 4, 1883, he married Miss Mary, daughter of James and Sarah Tucker Brockway. Three children came to bless this home: Chauncey B; James F. and Ora M. The devoted wife and mother was called from the bosom of her family by the death angel December 10, 1889. She was an amiable and very lovable woman, an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. On October 23, 1892, Mr. Baldwin and Miss Maggie FREEMAN were united in wedlock. Mrs. Baldwin was born in Montgomery County, Indiana. Mr. Baldwin is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and is always found on the side of all movements tending to uplift or promote the welfare of his fellow citizens and the community at large. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana, Page. 342

Tyler S. BALDWIN came to Rockville in 1835 and became the partner of P. E. Harris in the dry goods and grocery business. At that time this grocery store did the largest business in the county. A few years later Mr. Harris retired and George W. Sill & James Depew became partners of Mr. Baldwin under the firm of Tyler S. Baldwin & Co. Mr. Baldwin was, until his death, September 24, 1849, a man of great prominence in both county seat and county. He built the brick residence which all older people of Rockville will remember at the south end of Jefferson St. Here most of the family died. All have tombstones in the old part of the Rockville cemetery. With this exception there is nothing of record concerning a family once among the social leaders of this community. - Parke County Indiana Centennial Memorial, 1816-1916, Page 113

James T. BALL, MD makes his home in Judson, Parke County which has been his dwelling place since he began his professional career. When he began his practice of medicine he was $300 in debt for his school tuition but this amount he soon paid and has steadily laid by money for investment. He has now a well improved farm near the village, quite a tract of land in Kansas and 3 desirable pieces of town property. The Dr. was b. in this county near what is known as New Discover October 9, 1859 and is a son of James and Nancy A Johnson Ball. The father was born in KY and reared in Ohio. Throughout life he followed the avocation of agriculturist. He was 3 times married, our subject's mother being his 3rd wife. Of his first union were 4 children: David, Mary, Abel, deceased and Sarah. 3 graced the 2nd marriage: two died in childhood and one, Dennis resides near Indianapolis. Our subject is one of two children, his sister, Alice now deceased having been the wife of John M. Lucas. They had one daughter, Maud now 10 years of age, who is living with her uncle, the Dr. James Ball died when our subject was only 2 and some time after his mother removed to Knox County, Indiana where she became the wife of Horace A. EDWARDS, who later moved to Sullivan County. The mother's death occurred in 1881. Dr. Ball was reared to manhood in Sullivan County where he received a common school education with which his ambition did not allow him to be satisfied, for, while still in his youth he laid the foundation of study and research which he has continued in the years that followed. He began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. William A. Fleming at Pleasantville, Indiana in the winter of 1880 and the following autumn entered Cincinnati College of Medicine & Surgery. 3 years later he was graduated from that institution, where he took a special course in chemistry for which he received a special diploma. The Dr. is a member of the Parke County Medical Society of the Mitchell District Medical Society and of the State & American Medical Associations. To the conventions of the latter in many different states the Dr. has been made a delegate for several consecutive years. After the completion of his collegiate course he located at once at Judson which has since been the field of his operations. After having practiced 10 years, in the spring of 1893 he supplemented his medical studies by taking a post graduate course at Chicago, in the Chicago Polyclinic Hospital. At the home of the bride's parents, Robert and Amanda Clark, whose sketch appears elsewhere in the volume, in April 1884, was celebrated the marriage of Dr. Ball and Miss Emma M. Clark. For 18 years our subject has been a member of the Baptist Church, and fraternally, belongs to Howard Lodge No. 71, IOOF of Rockville. He is a Republican and in 1888 was chosen Trustee of his township by that party and reelected to the position 2 years later. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893. Page 385

BALL, William E. farmer and stock dealer, Portland Mills, was born in Trimble County, Kentucky in 1831 and is the son of Henry and Nancy (WISE) Ball, both natives of Kentucky. They immigrated to Indiana in 1837, and then to Iowa in 1854. The former died February 15, 1880 and the latter in 1856. Mr. Ball's maternal grandmother came to America from Germany. He came to Parke County In 1852, and lodged for the first time in the county where he now lives. In the same year he came to Parke County He was married to Ann BURNSIDE, daughter of William and Nancy (GHINN) Burnside. She was born in Scott County, Indiana in 1834. By this marriage he has 8 children: Nancy J; Robert R; Sarah E; William H; Mary E; Ida E; Flora A and John W, deceased. He has held several times the most prominent offices of his township; in 1860-62 he was elected assessor; in 1865 he was appointed by the county commissioner’s real estate appraiser for Green Township and served as enrolling officer in Greene Township in 1863. Here he met with some resistance, but through his great presence of mind he performed his duty without any serious difficulty. Mr. Ball was a soldier in Co. B, 115th Indiana Once while in the army he was detailed to bring 50 convalescent soldiers from Cumberland Gap to northern hospitals. The weather was cold, but few of the men could walk, and they were without rations or medicine, but perilous as the undertaking was, he succeeded. Mr. Ball came to Parke County Without a dollar, but through good management and active industry he has acquired a good farm of 160 acres, which he has well stocked. He and his wife are members of the Associate Presbyterian Church at Portland Mills. (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill)

BANNON, L. W., preacher, Russell's Mills, was born in Warren County, Ohio in the year 1818. His father, Michael Bannon, was a native of Pa. And came to Ohio at a very early date, settling at Cincinnati when that city only consisted of 5 houses, and there opened a blacksmith shop, the first in the city. In 1858, he moved to Indiana, settling in Sugar Creek Township, at Russell's Mills, which he rebuilt, and ran for four or five years. He returned to Ohio on a visit and died there about 1868. Mr. Bannon received his early education at the primitive country school, and worked at the bricklaying business for many years, and during the last 30 years, has been a preacher of the Christian denomination. In 1854, he settled in Montgomery Co this state, where he preached the gospel until 1870, when he removed to Parke County, locating in this township. Since beginning to preach he has averaged over 100 sermons per annum; married over 300 couples, and preached over 150 funeral sermons. In 1838, he married, in Ohio , Miss Livonia Ashley, daughter of Loama Ashley, one of the pioneer preachers of the Christian denominations in Ohio , and in 1860 he married his second wife, Miss Angeline Hellams, and has a family of 9 children, 5 by his first wife and four by his present; and Mr. Bannon is a member of Harveysburg Lodge, AF & AM and is a prominent member and past grand of Parke Lodge IOOF. He was one of the organizers and first preachers of Pleasant Grove Christian Church in this township. In politics he is entirely independent. Taken from: 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana by J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers.

BANTA, Jacob C. Farmer, Waveland was born in Mercer County, Kentucky, July 14, 1817, and is the son of Garrett and Lana Banta. His parents were natives in Kentucky; his grandfather, Peter Banta, was a pioneer settler in the state of Kentucky. The old log house built by his grandfather, in which he and his father were both born, stood still four years ago in a good state of preservation. His maternal grandparents came to Kentucky. From New Jersey in the early settlement of the country. The earliest legend respecting the Banta family is that the great, great, great grandfather of the subject of this sketch was of Dutch descent, his wife of the French, and that their descendants came to America in the time of its early colonization. His mother's people were originally from Germany. He was married in1 838 to Sarah W. Bingham, daughter of Joseph and Sophia (Janes) Bingham, pioneer settlers of Virginia. By this union, he has 9 children: Sophia, married to James Owen; Mary L. Married to William T. Davis; Sarah F, married to Richard A. Watson, deceased; Joseph H, Laney E, deceased; John m, married to Amanda Pitman; and Charles W. Charles W. And Joseph H. Remain at home. Joseph H. was a member of the Howard Township Home Guards. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Waveland. He has all through his life preferred home to the honors of office. He has a farm of 160 acres, mostly, cleared and fairly stocked. (1880 History of Parke County, Indiana J. H. Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers).

BANTLEY, James L., farmer, Rockville, was born in Virginia in 1822 and is the son of George and Ann M. HOGUE Bantley. His father was a cooper by trade; a Methodist class leader till his death and in politics was a democrat. While living in Virginia Mr. Bantley conducted a tannery for another man. He lived near and learned his trade of William TAYLOR, the noted preacher/theologian. The southern government took charge of the tannery establishment during the war, and employed him to conduct it. His first married was November 5, 1846. The children by this married were: John R; Cyrus; Edward A who died March 14, 1875; Virginia E, who died November 21, 1864; Dorman M, died June 22, 1862; William L. And Gorden P. His first wife died November 13, 1864. There are also two other children dead: Lillie R. And Mary A. His second married was October 21, 1867. His wife was born April 5, 1839. By this married they have two children: Stalard B And Wallace G. Mr. BANTLEY suffered considerable loss by the depreciation of southern paper money and came to Rockville in 1865 with only $`1.25 in his pocket; but he went to work and is now in comfortable circumstances.

BARKER, Felix, farmer, Russell's Mills, came to Parke County in 1832 with his parents, Jesse and Annie (Day) Barker, when two years old, having been born in Kentucky. In 1830. He received his early education at the first schoolhouse built in the township, which was located on the farm now owned by George Keller. During early life he taught school for many years. He has been a resident here all his life with the exception of two years which he spent in Iowa, but not liking that country, he returned to Parke County, where he now has a farm of 120 acres of good land, improved and fenced. On the 9th of Dec, 1855, while in Iowa, he married Miss Mary E. Maylow, who is a native of Indiana, and has borne him 9 children: William L, Minerva E, Cynthia Ellen, Sarah Ann, Clarissa Eveline, Charles Henry and Hannetta. James Monroe died in 1874, when 9 years old and Florence in 1864, aged 10 months. Mr. Barker is a prominent member of the Democratic Party, and has held the office of assessor for five years. Taken from: 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana by J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers.

BARKER, Felix was born in Kentucky in 1830 and came with his parents, Jesse and Annie Day Barker, to Sugar Creek Township in 1832. He received his early education in the first school house built in the township. In early life he taught school for several years. He acquired a farm of 120 acres of well improved land. He held the office of township assessor for several years. Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke County Atlas of Indiana Centennial, 1816-1916, Page 115.

William BARKER has made his home on his present farm since 1856. It is situated on Section 16, Sugar Creek Township, Parke County and is a most desirable and valuable piece of property. After his marriage our subject bought 80 acres of land in Fountain County. where he lived for five years, then trading the place for the farm he has since operated. On this he has erected a good residence and substantial barns. Bath County, Virginia was the place of our subject's birth, which occurred in 1820. He is a son of Joshua & Rebecca (Hillman) Barker. The former was in turn a son of George & Elizabeth (Sater) Barker. George Barker was probably born in North Carolina, but afterward, removed to Maryland, where his wife was born and there they celebrated their marriage. Mr. Barker was a farmer by occupation and, emigrating to Kentucky, was there numbered among the early settlers. Later in life he removed to Indiana, where he made his home with his children until his death, which occurred about 1846; his wife dying a few months afterward. He was in service during the war of 1812, for which he drew a pension. He was a member of the Baptist Church and politically was a Jacksonian Democrat. Joshua Barker was one of six children, the others being Nancy, Mary, Jessie, John B. and Jane. He remained at the home of his parents until reaching his majority and was married in the Old Dominion in 1818 to the daughter of William Hillman. Their family comprised 7 children: William, Henry, deceased, George, Thomas, deceased, Sarah A wife of James Allen, Nancy who died in childhood and one who died in infancy. When our subject was only 7 weeks old, his parents moved to Ky. where they lived until going to Putnam County Indiana. After living there for about 4 years, in 1830, they located in Parke County where the father bought 80 acres of unimproved land in Sugar Creek Township . At the expiration of a few years, he settled on another farm in the same township, where he made his home during the remainder of his life. After the death of his first wife, which occurred about 1831, he married Miss Mary Cotton. Four children graced their union, James, Eliza J, deceased wife of James Lawson, Ellen, wife of David Shoaf and Jonathan, who died in childhood. Mr. Barker was a third time married, Mrs. Mary Staggs becoming his wife. He was a Democrat and in religious belief was a member of the Christian church, although he was reared in the Baptist faith. William Barker was a lad of only 12 years when he lost his loving mother, and about 4 years later he left home, learning the blacksmith trade at which he worked for one year, when he was compelled to abandon the business as he was not strong enough to pursue it. For several years thereafter he worked by the month for farmers, or at whatever he could find to do. In his 25th year, he married, Susannah, daughter of Francis and Catherine Pithoud. Charles, Thomas, Sirnetta, wife of Samuel Brooks; Emeline, Mrs. Nathan Newland; Catherine, wife of Perry Davis, Charlotte, deceased and Martha, Mrs. George Downs. Though not as aspirant for official honors, Mr. Barker was induced to accept the position of Township Trustee for one term, acquitting himself as such to the full satisfaction of all concerned. He is a supporter of the Democratic Party, to which he has belonged since becoming a voter. He and his wife are members of the New Light Church. The family is greatly respected and esteemed in this locality, with the history and welfare of which they have been identified for many decades. - Portrait & Biographic Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana, 1893, Page 316

BARNES, Edward, farmer, Judson, was born In Mercer County, June 7, 1822. He lived on the farm with his father, William Barnes, till the year 1828, after which they removed to Parke Co Indiana and settled in what is now Washington Township. When Mr. Barnes arrived in the county there were but a few white settlers, and the country was occupied in part by the Delaware and Miami Indians. Mr. Barnes was raised on a farm, and only received such education as he could acquire in the common schools. At the age of 23, he began farming on his own account, having rented a farm and grist mill of his father, on the Little Raccoon River, where he farmed and ground wheat and corn for the next 18 years. By this time, Mr. Barnes by industry and business tact, had accumulated sufficient money to buy the property, and since then he has been engaged in farming and packing pork. The latter branch he has followed for a great many years, during which time he has made several trips to New Orleans on flatboats, trading in pork, lard and general produce. He has held the post office at Judson since 1848. Mr. Barnes has been engaged in active business almost all his life, and by paying strict attention to the business in which he was engaged he has been very successful. He now owns 1,200 acres of land, and other property. In 1845, he was married To Miss Sarepta BRUIN, daughter of Daniel and Mary A. Bruin, who were early settlers of Parke County, where she was born December12, 1822. (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill)

BARNES, Edward from the very early days was identified with the history of Parke County, to which he came with his parents in his tenth year or in 1832, his birth having occurred June 7, 1822 in Mercer County Kentucky. He was a grist miller by trade, shipping flour to New Orleans on flatboats. On leaving that business he became a packer and shipper of pork at Indianapolis, but never removed his family to that city. He remained there about six years or until his death, which occurred June 24, 1891. He was a commercial man of well recognized merit and held several local offices in the township. Politically, he was a strong supporter of the Democratic Party and was justly esteemed as a man of influence and high standing in all circles. On December 11, 1845 was celebrated the marriage of Edward Barnes and Sarepta BRUIN who was born December 12, 1822 near the place where she now lives. Her parents were Daniel and Mary A. KIRKPATRICK Bruin. The former was a son of Daniel and Molly Bruin, and the great grandparents of Mrs. Barnes were Joseph and Jane Bruin, who were natives of the Emerald Isle and came to America in the early Colonial days, settling in Virginia. The grandfather took part in the War of the Revolution. It is singular fact that various members of this family died while asleep and the grandfather slept for 18 days previous to his demise. The latter was born in Fauquier County, Va. and was married there, and spent his life in caring for his farm. His family of five children: Daniel; William; Joseph; Sarepta and Keziah are all deceased. The mother of these children lived to the extreme old age of one hundred and six years. In religious faith they were Presbyterians. Mrs. Barnes' father was born in Virginia and after his marriage removed to Kentucky, where he learned the tanner's trade and soon after came to Indiana, locating in Parke County within two miles of where Mrs. Barnes now lives. He followed his trade until his death and also carried on his farm of about 500 acres, situated in one body which he purchased of the Government. He was one of the earliest pioneers of this region as he came here in 1819, when the nearest white settlement was at Ft. Wayne. He reared his family of nine children in the wilderness among the Indians, and of this large circle only Mrs. Barnes is now living. The father died in 1852, having passed his sixtieth year, and his wife survived him about a decade. Mr. Bruin was a Baptist in belief, but was not connected with any church organization in this state, as there was none within a great many miles of his home. He was an old-line Whig. Mrs. Barnes' school days began at the age of 12 in the rudest and most primitive kind of schoolhouse, which was three miles from her home and where the pupils had to pile brush for fuel during the winter season. To Mr. and Mrs. Barnes were born three children: Robert, who died in April 1892, leaving a wife and two children, William and Laura, deceased wife of W. H. . ALEXANDER who left two children, Bessie and Eddie, who are now living with their grandmother. – source - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893) Page 689

BARNES, Robert, In the twilight of an honored life, this venerable resident of Washington Township, Parke County, whose pleasant home was situated on Section 14, closed his eyes upon the scenes of earthly toil and usefulness and passed to the Great Beyond April 4, 1892. Esteemed in life, in death he was sincerely mourned, and among his many acquaintances there is not one who did not realize that in the death of this citizen the township had lost one of its most active members, and his family and friends one who was ever devoted to their happiness. Mr. Barnes was born in 1848 to Edward and Sarepta Barnes, and received his education in the district schools of Parke County He remained with his parents until he reached manhood, and was in partnership with his father in the milling business which they followed successfully. He afterward located on a farm consisting of 240 acres of well cultivated land, taking with him his wife, who bore the maiden name of Susie Norcross, to whom he was married October 2, 1879. Mr. Barnes is a daughter of Thomas and Mary Norcross, who were natives of Virginia. To Robert and his wife were born two children, whom they named Mary and Roscoe. They are now both attending school and receiving a good education. In political life Mr. Barnes was a democrat and molded his beliefs in accordance with the pronounced principles of that party. He died at the age of 44 when in the prime of life, and left behind a good record as a citizen and in all the relations that he had sustained toward others. Mrs. Susie Barnes was born in Rockbridge County, Virginia September5, 1860 to Thomas J. and Mary Norcross. The former parent was a son of William Norcross, a native of New Jersey, who there grew to mature years and after his marriage emigrated and settled in Rockbridge County Virginia where he was the operator and owner of an iron forge. Subsequently he was engaged in farming to some extent. The birthplace of our Mrs. Barnes' father was also in Virginia, where he received a common school education. When a young man he was married to Miss Mary, daughter of Robert and Matilda Lewis. In 1870, Mr. Norcross emigrated with his wife and family to Parke County, Indiana where he followed his trade of a plasterer for some time. He was the father of 7 children: two of whom died in infancy; those living are: Lucy, wife of JP Russell; Susie, Mrs. Barnes; Etta who married Charles Durham; Minnie and William. In religious belief Mr. Norcross was identified with his Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he has taken great interest. Politically he was connected with the Democratic Party, to the principles of which he stoutly adhered. His wife died in 1885, after which he removed his place of abode to the home of Mrs. Barnes, who is known for her pleasant disposition, hospitality and attractiveness and is very highly esteemed in the community. Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain counties, Indiana (Chapman Brothers, 1893) p 386

BARNES, William came from Kentucky. And settled on a farm near the present town of Judson in 1828. When he arrived, there were but few white settlers and the county was occupied in part by the Delaware and Miami Indians. His son, Edward, who was born In Mercer Co Kentucky in 1822, was part of the family of several children. At the age of 23, Edward rented a farm and grist mill on Little Raccoon from his father, which he ran for many years. He also made several trips down the rivers to New Orleans on flat boats with pork and produce. For several years he was part owner of a pork packing establishment at Indianapolis. In 1845, he was married To Miss Sarepta BRUIN, daughter of Daniel Bruin and she was born in Parke County in 1822. William Barnes was the father of Thomas, Monroe and Lafayette, who is the last surviving child. There are quite a number of the descendants. Of his children now living in Parke County 1816-1916 Historical Sketch of Parke County, Parke County Centennial Memorial. The Rockville Chautauqua Association; published with other atlases in one-volume by the Parke County Historical Society, 1996)

BARNES, William H., one of the representative farmers of Parke County, Indiana is also a native of the county, born in Washington Township, June 11, 1850. His parents were Edward and Sarepta BRUIN Barnes, a biography of whom also appears in this work. Our subject received his early education in the schools of Washington Township and subsequently attended the college at Waveland, Indiana. After completing his education, he was for 3 years a successful teacher in Washington Township. Mr. Barnes' entire life has been spent in Parke where he is a highly esteemed and successful farmer and is the owner of 227 acres on Section 24, Washington Township. He also owns his father's old homestead of 190 acres on Section 24, both farms being finely improved. He was married December 29, 1887 to Miss L.C. STARK, daughter of T. C. . and Mary Stark, natives, respectively, of Kentucky and Indiana. To Mr. and Mrs.. Barnes were born the following children: Lottie; Freddie; Eddie; Elmer; Thomas; Alice Ray and Hal, all bright and interesting girls and boys, of whom their parents may be justly proud. . Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana (Chapman Brothers, 1893), Page 625

BATMAN, George W. -- Miller, Armiesburg, is the present owner of the Mecca merchant and custom flouring mills. In 1875 he formed a partnership with W. W. McCune, in the woolen factory and custom mill at Mecca, and in February 1880, become sole proprietor and owner of the grist mill. He has overhauled the mill, put in new and improved machinery, and, having a never-failing water supply, is doing a very successful business in both the custom and merchant line. He is a son of William and Angeline (FRAZIER) Batman, and was born April 18, 1852 in Wabash Township. His education was mostly received at Bloomingdale, Parke County Though he attended one term at Stockwell, Tippecanoe County. Before going into business he followed school teaching about 8 years. July 20, 1876 he was married To Miss Isabel, daughter of Samuel LOWERY, one of Parke County's early settlers. Mr. Batman's affable, good ways and honest, upright business principle, secure him the confidence of strangers as well as his many friends.

Father Joseph T. BAUER, Rector of St. Joseph's Church, Rockville also has a wide field for work in Parke, Vigo and Vermillion Counties, supervising mission churches at Clinton; Rosedale; Fontanet; Coxville and Montezuma. The Catholic population in his charge is mainly composed of laboring classes, 1/5 of whom own real estate. This remarkable fact is largely due to the earnest endeavors of our subject in persuading those of his flock to invest their money in homes and real estate. His object in so doing is that they may be more settled and have something to show for their labor. At all the churches he has organized Sunday Schools and many of the congregations have well disciplined choirs and good singing. Father Bauer was born in Evansville, Indiana Aug 10, 1865 the son of Peter and Catherine Bauer of that city. His early education was acquired in the Trinity School of Evansville, where he was a pupil from the time he was six until 14. Subsequently he attended the college and seminary at St. Meinard, Spencer Co Indiana from which institution he was graduated in 1889, being ordained a priest on May 29 of that year. He at once located at St. Mary's in Vigo County where he had charge of several churches now in his district. In Sept 1891, he came to Rockville and built the neat and substantial parsonage adjoining the church which is now his place of residence. Two years ago there were but two church buildings under Father Bauer’s supervision - one at Rockville, the other at Montezuma. Since then he has erected church edifices at Fontanet, Rosedale, Coxville and Clinton. This spring, 1893, it is his intention to sell the church property at the last named city, and erect a fine brick building, 30 x 50 feet. When he started in the work there were only 5 families in the Clinton church, but now the congregation numbers 75 families and in the several congregations over which he has charge there are now 180 families. The six churches embrace about 900 members which include the Catholic inhabitants of no less than 20 small towns. Father Bauer is a most zealous worker in the church and a very devout young man. No one could have the interests of his people more at heart. At the time he assumed charge there was a great deal of prejudice against the church, but this he has succeeded beyond his expectations. The cause of temperance has found in him a warm advocate and recognizing the fact that intemperance is one of the greatest evils of the age, he has been very strenuous in his efforts for its overthrow among his people. By his genial manners and sincere enthusiasm Father Bauer has won friends for himself and the church, even among those outside of his denomination. Regardless of creeds and differences of opinion, he is recognized as a man of worth and a worker for the cause of Christ. With regard to politics, he votes according to his convictions, but takes no active part, believing that administer should not sacrifice his influence in the church by striving to direct the votes for his members for any given party or candidate. There is a church history following - (not typed here). –transcribed by Karen Zach from “1816-1916 Atlas of Parke County”

BAUGH, John, farmer, Rockville, Indiana was born In Pickaway County, Ohio March 11, 1823. At about the age of two years he with his parents, George and Catharine (BUTTS) Baugh, emigrated to Parke County, and so he became one of the pioneer children. His parents being poor he was deprived of event he advantages of a pioneer school education. At the age of 20, with nothing but his empty hands, he began in Parke County, determined to make a home for himself, and has been successful, as he is now the owner of a very fine 160 acre farm, on which he has built a handsome and substantial residence. On July 4, 1861, he was married To Martha, daughter of Jesse DRAPER, an early settler of Parke Co; she diedNovember1, 1874. By this marriage He became the father of five children: Gertrude E; Henry; Jesse; Frederick and Gracie. July 11, 1875, he married for his second wife, Miss Martha BRANSON, a native of Tennessee.

John BAUGH, a leading citizen of Parke County, owns and operates a well improved farm on Section 9, Wabash Township. He is a man of strong character and principle, one who having arrived at a conclusion is not easily driven from his position. He is an example of one who has overcome very serious disadvantages in many respects. As his father died when he was only a child of 5, he was never enabled to attend school a day in his life and when 6 commenced working at whatever he could find to do in order to help support himself. In view of these facts, he is the more worthy of commendation for what he has accomplished. Mr. Baugh was born just east of Circleville, Ohio March 11, 1824, to George and Catherine BUTTS Baugh. His grandfather, Leonard Baugh, was born in Germany and during the war for independence was in the Hessian Army which came to America to fight on the British side. While stationed at Jamestown on the James River he deserted the British forces and joined Gen. Washington's Army being engaged in battle the day following. After the conflict was over he settled in Pa, where he engaged in farming and in 1800 removed to Ohio where he was one of the early pioneers. He was a miller by trade and passed the remainder of his life in the Buckeye State. His wife was an English woman who came with the English Army, which she deserted at the same time as her husband. She had a family of 10 children, 3 sons and 7 daughters, the former being Jacob, Michael & George. Both parents were members of the Free Will Baptist Church. George Baugh was born in Pennsylvania July 4, 1790 and came to Ohio with his parents. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. October 16, 1825, he landed at Mecca, Parke County, having been 20 days in making the trip from Ohio. He entered 80 acres of land in Florida Township where he resided until his death October 25, 1855. He had cleared and improved a place of 160 acres and when he was cut down by the hand of death he was found at the post of duty. Politically he was a Whig, and religiously was a member of the Free Will Baptist Church. His wife departed this life July 5, 1861, at the age of 68 year 8 months 20 days. She was born in VA her father, Conrad Butts being a native of Germany who came to America with the Hessian Army which he deserted at the same time Mr. Baugh. After the war he settled in Virginia and in 1829 came to Ft. Wayne, Indiana where he died 3 days later. T he journal was made by means of wagons. His wife was an English woman who came with the army as a cook. She had 4 sons and two daughters, the former being Isaac, Lawrence, Jacob and John. John Baugh is one of 4 children, the others being Michael, Martha wife of Jonathan COX and Elizabeth now Mrs. William STARKS. He came to this state with his parents and when a mere child began earning money making 12 and 1/2 cents a day, later receiving $8 a month. On reaching his majority he engaged in business for himself, farming and raising stock. In 1841 he purchased 40 acres of land in Florida Twp, for $150 twenty acres of which he cleared then selling the place and purchasing 120 acres of improved farm land. In 1861 he sold this farm and purchased one of 160 acres on Section 9 which is his residence at the present time, and which he has largely improved and cleared. Mr. Baugh was a strong Whig, and later became a Republican. He took a strong stand for the Union and was turned out of the Free Will Baptist Church because of his strong sentiments on the question. Since that time he has never joined a church organization. He has been twice married, his marriage with first wife, Martha DRAPER being celebrated July 4, 1861. The lady was born at Crawfordsville, Indiana and is a daughter of Jesse and Lucinda FISHER Draper. Mr. and Mrs. Baugh have six children: Gertrude, wife of F. M. Berry; Henry; Jesse of Mt. Vernon, Ill; Fred; Lucinda and Gracie who die din childhood. The mother died November 1, 1874 and some time after Mr. Baugh wedded Martha Branson who was born in Tennessee and is the daughter of Jeremiah and Mary Branson, who removed to this state in 1842. He was a distiller in the former state but followed agricultural pursuits in Indiana. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 343

BEAUCHAM, Eri, farmer, Bridgeton was born October 9, 1818 in Wayne County, Indiana. His father, Charles was born in Maryland and at the age of 18 went to North Carolina where, at the age of 24, he married Susana THOMAS. In 1811 they immigrated to Indiana Territory, arriving a few days before Hull surrendered his army to the British. In 1820 he moved to Orange County, Indiana and in 1822 to Clark County, Illinois then to Parke County in 1823 and settled in Raccoon Township. In his early life, he was a sailor along the American coast. His father grandfather to Eri, was born in France. The great grandmother of Mrs. Eri Beaucham on her mother's side was born In Germany. Eri was about 5 years old when his parents came to Parke County He remained at home till 14 when he hired out, carrying his wages to his father till he arrived at majority. At the age of 22 he bought 40 acres of land, which he afterward sold. He now owns 145 1/2 acres. He was married March 14, 1842 to Martha Nivens, daughter of George & Katherine (RICE) Nivens. Their children Are Sarah K, born May 28, 1845; Susan E, September 10, 1846; Mary J, April 1, 1848; Martha A, February 25, 1856; Jasper, March 26, 1862. Mrs. Beaucham's father was killed by lightening. Mr. and Mrs. Beaucham Are members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Prior to the civil war, Mr. Beaucham was working for Gen. Steele, at the Mansfield mill, when he met with a serious accident, having his scapula broken into 3 places and all the ribs on the left side fractured. This disabled him for war duty. He has always voted Republic ticket. He is one of Parke County's early settlers, and is now blossoming with age. 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

BEADLE, James Ward -- the subject of this sketch is one of the early settlers of Parke County He was born in Jefferson County, Kentucky, near the city of Louisville, September 30, 1806. He lived in Kentucky. Till about 14 years of age, when his father moved across the Ohio River into Clark County, Indiana where he continued to reside till his death, which occurred in 1833. Prior to his father's death, the subj. Of this sketch returned to his native place in Kentucky, and on the 2nd day of June 1831 he was married to Miss Elizabeth BRIGHT, of Kentucky. Soon after his married, he came back to Clark County, Indiana and after remaining there two years, removed to Parke County In February 1837. The country then was comparatively new. Mr. Beadle settled in the northeast part of the county, and for 10 or 12 years did business in Howard; farming, pork packing, selling goods and groceries, buying, settling and shipping provisions to New Orleans. In 1848, he was elected Sheriff of Parke County, and that fall he removed to Rockville and entered upon the duties of his office. Mr. Beadle, as Sheriff of Parke County, discharged the duties of his office with a high sense of its responsibilities, and in a manner creditable to himself and satisfactory to his constituents. In August 1850, he was reelected, and served till the expiration of his term, when he bought the farm where he now resides in Adams Township. He has a farm, which is considered the best upland quarter section in the county and one of the best houses in the township, with grounds well ornamented with shade trees. Mr. Beadle has been a successful man in business and has provided himself and family with an ample competency to make them comfortable in life. He acted many years as J of the Peace and during that time was elected one of the County Commissioners and afterwards when the last was changed, he was reelected to the same office and served 9 years. By the married above recorded he has had 9 children, five sons and four daughters, seven of whom are living. He had four sons in the army who made honorable records, one dying from a wound received at Spottsylvania Courthouse, Virginia on the 5th day of that bloody battle. One of his sons, John h. Beadle is known to the literary world as the author of "Life in Utah," and "The Unexplored West." He with his older brother, William H, is a graduate of Mich. State Univ. Having graduated before the late war, June 28, 1861. William h. Held the position of Surveyor of Dakota conferred upon his by Gen. Grant after his first inauguration in consideration of his military services and successful speaking in the campaign-- an office which he held 3 years. John H is now assoc. Editor of the Cincinnati Commercial and is residing in that city. (Taken from the 1874 Parke Co In Atlas, p 28)

BEADLE, James Ward, Jr. : From the Rockville Tribune excerpts of his obituary. Beadle, James Ward Jr. Was born in Parke county July 8, 1844, the son of James W. Beadle Sr. and Elizabeth BRIGHT, and died in Rockville, May 6, 1921. He was a boy when the war came and his two older brothers; Captain W. H. H. Beadle and John H. Beadle enlisted early in 1861 in the 31st Indiana Regiment. Two more of the brothers, all of the able bodied family, volunteered later; James W. With 4 enlistments, 3 in the army and 1 in the navy; Edmond Page Beadle, Sergeant in the First Michigan Sharpshooters, was mortally wounded at Spotsylvania Court, VA, dying June 30, 1864. In July 1863 J. W. Enlisted in Co "C" 78th Indiana Regiment, he then enlisted in the 115th Indiana Regiment, serving 6 months at Cumberland Gap, Tenn. He then enlisted May 6, 1864 in the 133ed Indiana Regiment for 100 days service in Sherman's army. He then enlisted in the navy for a term of 2 years when the war ended. The military record of James W. In point of varied service is unequaled by any other volunteer soldier from Parke county in the civil war. It was to be even more extended fifty years later, when he attained the rank of Captain in command of a detail of his old comrades in the National Soldiers' Home in Danville, Ill., where he served with that rank for 3 years. In 1866 he went to Evansville where he was engaged in the drug business for 3 years. He then joined his brother, General W. H. H. Beadle in the Dakota Territory assisting him with surveying the vast territory. In 1873 he returned to the farm to assist his aged father in its work and management. After his father's death in 1879, J. W. Resided at the old homestead until 1885, when he sold the farm and built a fine residence in Rockville. On June 10, 1875, he married Miss Belle TENBROOK. Six children were born to them: Edmund Parke, Clara M. John T. Jessie W., Paul and Virginia; the latter were twins. John died April 18, 1889, the result of drowning, Clara died December 31, 1896 and Paul died January 27, 1897. James' brother John H. Died January 15, 1897. Thus within a few days he suffered the lost of a daughter, a son, and a brother. He inherited all of the fine intellectual endowments of a father and mother of unusual strength of character. It was said of him in comparison to his wonderfully intellectual brother, John H., that he only lacked the higher educational advantages of his brother to rival him in intellect. He also resembled his brother in form and feature, that years later, those associated with John H., were startled at James' wonderful resemblance. He had the same extraordinary memory, the same honesty of thought, the same disposition for friendly discourse, and the same humor that made him a welcome member of any group wherever they congregated in social events. Even the tone of his voice and peculiarities of speech were the same. It is particularly interesting to note that the same quotation used in John H. Beadle's obituary was also quoted on James W. Beadle's obituary. It can be said of him as truly as Anthony said of Brutus: "His life as gentle, and the elements so mixed that nature might stand up and say to all the world, this was a man"

BEADLE, John Hanson, author, and editor and proprietor of the "Rockville Tribune," Rockville, second son of James Ward and Elizabeth Beadle, was born March 14, 1840 on a farm two miles E. Of Waterman in Liberty Township, this county. At a very early age he was attacked by the ague, which was then the curse of the Wabash Country; with this disease he languished an entire year and was finally left with an enfeebled constitution. For this reason his personal tastes were indulged rather more than those of most children, and as he early showed a remarkable aptitude for books and papers he acquired the reputation of an "odd child." He learned to read so young that he has no recollection of the matter, and at the age of 7 was among the advanced scholars of the district school. His memory was then considered marvelous, and being somewhat indulged he used to spend whole days reading or rambling in the woods and reciting little poems and stories he had read. At the age of 10 he committed the entire New Testament to memory, besides the Book of Job, most of the Psalms and other portions of the Old Testament. This power of memory continued in full activity till about the age of 16; then it disappeared almost at once, and since that time, though very good, his memory is not at all phenomenal. At the age of 9, he had completed the studies then pursued in the common schools, and his father, being desirous to educate his children more thoroughly, obtained the nomination of the Whigs for sheriff; he was elected and the family removed to Rockville. In 3 years John and his elder brother, William, had completed the high school course -- then not as full as now -- and were prepared for college. But John was still of a delicate constitution, and it was decided that his days of study were over. At the age of 13 he was removed to the farm near Rockville, and spent the next 5 year sin farm labor and driving stock, attending school only 2 winter terms in Rockville. Having meanwhile grown stout and apparently rugged he became eager of a college course; and in October 1857, he and his brother William entered as freshmen at An Harbor, Mich. His health at no time really robust broke down in the second year and for a while his friends despaired of his recovery. He at length rallied, and when able to travel returned home. After a short visit he started on a tour through Ill, Missouri, Iowa and Minnesota, traveling largely on foot and paying his way by farm labor, teaming, selling books, etc. After a brief sojourn in Minnesota, his health was so much restored that he returned to college. After the breaking out of the war he made an extensive tour through NY, NJ, Pa, and Ohio . On his return he enlisted as a private in Co. A, 31st Ind. Volunteers, and served until after the fall of Ft. Donelson, when exposure brought on a disease of the lungs and he barely escaped death. The next four years, he traveled, taught school and studied law; and in 1866 located, as he supposed, permanently in Evansville in the practice of his profession. A gain his health failed, and in 1868 he started for California, the next winter corresponding with the Cincinnati "Commercial" from Salt Lake City. These letters, signed "Beadle" (racy and original), attracted wide notice and established for him a reputation which place him in the front ranks of the newspaper correspondents of our land. During his residence in Utah he edited the salt Lake "reporter" a year. This was a gentile sheet; the only one in the territory and under his editorial control was soon recognized as one of the sprightliest and the most effective journals in the west, and by the "Saints" as a rapier to Mormonism. He next traveled constantly for several years in the western states and territories as the correspondent of the Cincinnati "Commercial," "western World," and other papers, at the same time collecting material for his books. The first of these was his 'Life in Utah," published early in 1870. This is a history of Mormonism and the most complete and valuable book on the subject that has ever been written. If found an immense sale, showing its great popularity -- over 80,000 copies having been sold. It has been said by another that the work "reflects great honor on the writer from the clear, impartial statement of the rise, progress and workings of Mormonism, acquired only by the most hard and patient labor; and from the forcible and interesting style in which it is written, well deservedly rank it among the reliable histories of our land." On December2 5, 1872, Mr. Beadle was married to Miss Jennie COLE, of Evansville, a lady who adds to quiet, social charms a rare development of the moral sensibilities. This union was happy for Mr. Beadle, not only in securing a partner whose grace and tenderness would fill his home with the sunshine of domestic happiness, but whose qualifications otherwise lend ready assistance in his intellectual labors. In 1874 an interest in mining took Mr. Beadle, with his wife and child, to Colorado, where he worked and traveled that season. Then he went to Utah and was appointed clerk of the Supreme Court. This position he held till August 1875, when he resigned and went to NY City. There he wrote various articles for the magazines and served as Wall Street. Reporter for the "Daily Graphic." Early in 1876 he accepted the position of Columbus, Ohio correspondent of the Cincinnati "Gazette," retaining the same two years; during the time he made two lengthy tours in the south for that journal. Growing weary of the life of a wandering scribe, in 1878 he settled in Rockville and bought the "Rockville Tribune," a paper which he is at this time publishing. In addition to his editorial work he is performing a variety of literary labor. In 1877 he published "Western Wilds" -- a history of 7 years' travel and residence in the Far West. Besides his correspondence, Mr. Beadle is widely known for his books and various short articles; among them, "The Darwinian Genesis," a little satire, which has been repeatedly published both in Europe and America, the "Centennial State," etc. Mr. Beadle's acquirements are of a high order. His talents, made conspicuous by great memory, remarkable, powers of observation and generalization, and an unusually versatile style have brought him prominently before the reading world as a writer of signal promise, and laid the foundation for a career of usefulness and fame in the empire of letters. He is still a young man, and the public have every reason to hope that they may be refreshed for many years to come from the fountains of his inspiring pen, and that he may add greatly to his very gratifying success and reputation.

BECK, William farmer, Lena, was born April 8, 1803 in North Carolina and is a son of George and Elizabeth (CLAVER) Beck, both of whom came from North Carolina to the Indiana Territory and settled in what is now Washington County in 1806. Then Indians were their neighbors, there being no white people within 8 or 10 miles of them. The Indians were so troublesome that schools could not be kept and on George Beck's place were built two forts, one to protect the house and the other to defend the mill owned by Mr. Beck. George Beck and eldest son, a brother to William, were in the battle of Tippecanoe, and General Harrison came to the home of the Becks with them after the battle. Thus William grew-up on the Indiana Frontier. In 1825, he was married to Susannah ALLEN and in 1830 moved to Putnam County and in 1850 to Parke and settled in Jackson Township buying 160 acres of land, a part of which he has cleared. He and wife are prominent in the Christian Church. He is a democrat, and cast his first vote for Jackson. They brought 9 children when they came to Parke County: George, Delila, John, Elizabeth, Nancy, Susannah, William A, Josephine and Nathan. They have more than 50 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Their seventh son, William A, was born September 28, 1839 and lived with his parents till he was 26 years old. September 28, 1866 he was married to Rachel EVANS, daughter of William and Sarah Evans, both born in Ohio . She was born July 6, 1847, in Bartholomew County, Indiana. Their children are: Mary J, born September 28, 1867; Jennie, born August 18, 1869; Myrtle born November 7, 1872; George born March 14, 1875. Mr. and Mrs. Beck are members of the Christian church and he is a democrat. Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill

BEESON, E.W., school teacher, Bloomingdale, was born in Washington Township, Parke County, Indiana, February 13, 1853, and is the son of David and Hannah Beeson. His father came to this county in 1839, where he lived until his death, which occurred about 1855. Mr. Beeson spent the early part of life on his father's farm, and attended the common schools for a number of years. After this time he taught school and earned money to complete his education, since which time he has been engaged in teaching school in different parts of this county and others. It may be conscientiously said of Mr. Beeson that everything attaining to his education and his ability as a teacher has been obtained by his industry as a student and a teacher. In 1879, he was married to Miss Hattie NEWLIN, daughter of James Newlin, of Parke County. Taken from: Page303 History of Parke Co IN; J. H. Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880

BELL, Addison W, farmer, Rosedale, was born In Vigo Co June 18, 1831 and is the son of John and Eleanor (DAWSON) Bell. Mr. Bell's father was born In PA, afterward lived in OH; and moved from there to Vigo County He was in the war of 1812; was a Whig, a good citizen and died in February 1856. Mr. Bell's mother was born In Ohio , is a member of the Christian church and is still living. Mr. Bell had the common school education of his day. He began farming in Vigo Co in 1852 in limited circumstances and now has 174 acres of land. He has a good home comfortably furnished. He was married December24, 1852 to Elizabeth N. PRICE, daughter of John and Sarah Price. She was born June 14, 1834. They have had 8 children: America E, born December20, 1853; Mary B August 18, 1855; John F September 7, 1857 died November13, 1869; Tullona E April 21, 1863; William E. July 1, 1866; Edward P. March 1, 1869; Annetta C, September31, 1875; Frederic M, November10, 1872diedAugust7, 1878; Charity J August 7, 1860diedJuly 18, 1869. Mr. Bell is a republican and an honest, upright citizen. 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

BELL, Daniel, farmer, Bridgeton was born September 3, 1834 in Raccoon Township. His father, Abel Bell, was born In Butler County, Ohio August 4, 1805 and was one of the pioneer settlers in Raccoon Township, in which he is still living. His mother died March 20, 1850. Mr. Bell has always lived on the farm. He attended the common school in winters, working on the farm in summer. He raises grain and stock, and has a good farm of nearly 300 acres, with a nice dwelling house upon it. He has traveled some in the west and visited Niagara Falls and the Centennial in 1876. Mr. Bell is a democrat, a successful farmer, and an honest industrious, substantial citizen. 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

BELT, George C., blacksmith and wagon-maker, Bridgeton, was born in Vigo County March 8, 1834 and is the son of Gerard and Mary Belt. His father was born in Ohio and died in Vigo County 1853. His mother was a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Belt spent his boyhood on the farm in Vigo County, where he lived till he was 19 years old. At 20 years of age, he learned his trade and has been in business in Bridgeton ever since, except two years in Vincennes. Mr. Belt was married October 30, 1856 to Matilda A. EVANS. She was born In Vigo County April 24, 1831 and is the daughter Of Milton and Mary (ST. CLAIR) Evans. Mr. Belt enlisted in the fall of 1861 in County A, 14th Indiana Vols. For 3 years. He was in service 5 months and then discharged on account of disability. In the fall of 1864 he reenlisted in the 113d Ind. Vol. For 100 days. He received a certificate of national thanks for honorable service. In 1856 he settled in Bridgeton and is one of the most reliable and respected citizens of the place. He has been engaged in the implement business in connection with his regular business. He has been township trustee, and is now justice of the peace. In politics he is a republican. 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

BENSON, Col. E. M. ., merchant, Montezuma, is one of Parke County's most prominent business men and one of her most respect citizens. He is one of their self-made men. He is the second child of William W. and Gertrude Benson, of Virginia. He was born in Accomack County, VA, October26, 1813. In 1823, his parents removed to Hamilton County, Ohio, where they remained until 1827, after which the removed to Parke County, Indiana and purchased a farm near Rockville. Here Mr. Benson lived from the time he was 14 until he was 21 years old, and his time was spent in working on a farm and attending a common school. In his twenty-second year he taught school for six months. Mr. Benson's aim in life was to become a merchant, and to this end he went to Rockville in 1836, and was employed by Messrs. Donaldson & Lowe, and clerked for them one year, when he bought Mr. Lowe's interest in the business and formed a partnership with Donaldson, which was continued for 4 years. In 1839, when only 26 years old, he was elected by the county commissioners to fill the important office of county treasurer, and was appointed by them without solicitation on his part. In the winter of 1841-2 he was appointed enrolling clerk for the state legislature, and filled that office for one term. In September 1843, he removed to Armiesburg, and embarked in the dry-goods business with Messrs. Patterson and Sillman, and lived there until 1846, when he removed to Montezuma, his present home. Here Mr. Benson formed a partnership with Hon. John G. Davis, with whom he carried on a very large and successful business for 17 years, conducting the business for the most part himself. At the expiration of this time the partnership was dissolved, and Col. Benson has kept up the business alone. During the many years the colonel has been in active business he has dealt honestly with his many customers, and has gained for himself an enviable reputation. August 7, 1853, he was married to Louisa M. FAIRCHILD, of New Orleans, by whom he has 5 children. The mother and three of her children are no longer among the living. (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).

BENSON, Erastus M. -- Anticipating the building of the Canal, Col. Erastus M. Benson who had been in business at Rockville and Armiesburg, formed a partnership with John G. DAVIS, then Clerk of Parke Co and opened a gen. Merchandise business in 1846. This partnership was continued for 14 years, during which time Mr. Davis was Clerk and then a member of Congress so it is needless to say that Col. Benson conducted the business without any assistance from his partner. It was a large and very flourishing business, too, growing into a wholesale buying and selling at the big warehouse on the Canal, 150 yards no. Of the present artesian well. This warehouse was managed by Septimus VanLandingham. Col. Benson continued in the retail business after the decline of the Canal until he had rounded out 40 years of active mercantile life in Montezuma, with 10 years of previous business at Rockville and Armiesburg. He dealt honestly with everybody and was greatly admired and respected. (Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke Co Atlas of IN Centennial, 1816-1916, p.27) - BENSON, Colonel Erastus M., was born in Virginia in the year 1813. He came with his father, William M. and settled on a farm near Rockville. At the age of 21 he taught school. In 1836, he entered the general store of Danaldson & Lowe in Rockville and in 1837, purchased the interest of Mr. Lowe, which continued for four years. In 1839, at the age of 26, he was appointed County Treasurer, was enrolling clerk in the Legislature in 1841-42. In 1843, he with James PATTERSON and Isaac J. SILLIMAN went into the dry goods business at Armiesburg. He went to Montana in 1846 with Hon. John W. DAVIS and engaged in mercantile and general business and finally for many years he conducted a large business at Montezuma. (Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke Co Atlas of IN Centennial, 1816-1916, Page117)

BENSON, Colonel Erastus M., was born in Virginia in the year 1813. He came with his father, William M. And settled on a farm near Rockville. At the age of 21 he taught school. In 1836, he entered the general store of Danaldson & Lowe in Rockville and in 1837, purchased the interest of Mr. Lowe, which continued for four years. In 1839, at the age of 26, he was appointed County Treasurer, was enrolling clerk in the Legislature in 1841-42. In 1843, he with James PATTERSON and Isaac J. SILLIMAN went into the dry goods business at Armiesburg. He went to Montana in 1846 with Hon. John W. DAVIS and engaged in mercantile and general business and finally for many years he conducted a large business at Montezuma. (Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke Co Atlas of IN Centennial, 1816-1916, Page 117)

BILBO, William, deceased was born in Kentucky. In 17987, and was the son of Archibald and Mary Bilbo, both natives of Kentucky; the former of whom died in 1826, aged 57, the latter in 1833, aged 56 years. Mr. Bilbo was married in 1820 to Lucinda Durham, daughter of Benjamin and Margret (Robinson) Durham. Her parents were the first settlers of Boyle County, Kentucky, and they both died in Kentucky; the former in 1847, aged 69 years, the latter in 1853, aged 73 years. Mr. William Bilbo had by their marriage twelve children: Margaret, David, Elijah, Mary, deceased; Benjamin, deceased; William B, Elizabeth, deceased; Archibald, Harriet A, Milton J, James O. A., deceased; and Sophia A. Benjamin was killed in the battle of Jenkins Ferry, April 30, 1864. Archibald was captain of the Howard Township. Home guards. Mr. Bilbo began life for himself poor. He came to Parke County In 1829, and shortly after returned to Kentucky, remaining there nine years, after which he returned to his farm in Howard township, where he died in 1854. By trade, he was a blacksmith. He and his wife were active, earnest workers in the cause of Christianity. They united with the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1820, and his widow holds her membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church at Waveland. Mr. Bilbo took an active part in the building of the first church in the township. He was a man very highly respected by his neighbors for his integrity and moral character. By his death his family lost a benevolent and kind husband and father. (1880 History of Parke County, Indiana J. H. Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers).

BLAKE, J. E. ., miller and farmer, Portland Mills, is a son of Isaac W. And Rachel (LION) Blake, both natives of Ohio. His grandfather on his father's side was a soldier in the war of 1812, under Hull, at Detroit. Mr. J. E. Blake's father first emigrated to Illinois and then to Parke County, Indiana and settled in Greene Township on Section 36. The subject of this sketch was born in Parke Co Indiana in 1830 and was married in 1853 to Mary BUTCHER daughter of W. C. and Sarah MORGAN Butcher. WC Butcher was a native of Kentucky and was one of the pioneer settlers of Parke County Mr. and Mrs. Blake have 7 children: William K; Isaac N; Charles L; Mary A; Sarah S; Ulysses S and America E. They are all at home with their parents. In politics, Mr. Blake is strictly a republican. His wife is a member of the Christian Church Society at Portland Mills. He began life poor in this world's goods. He now owns the watermill at Portland Mills, this being the first and best mill in this part of the country. He has ever preferred the emoluments of quiet life to the undue public censure many times poured upon public men by an unpitying and blind public.

W. P. BLAKE, a leading agriculturist of Parke County, owns two fine farm in Union Township, one of 177 acres on Section 16 and his home farm on Section 19 has 157 acres within its boundaries. He is a practical farmer, and has made a success of his various ventures. His well-tilled, fertile fields yield to him an abundant income in return for the care and attention he bestows upon them. Our subject is a native son of this county, having been born in the same township where his home is located on January 28, 1837. His parents are Charles L. and Barbara Miller Blake, the former born in Greene Co., OH March 4, 1809 and latter in Franklin County same state September 4, 1816. John Blake, our subject's paternal grandfather was a native of Maryland, hatter by trade and of Irish descent. In 1823 he took up land from the Government in this county to which he removed his family. He hewed the logs for a primitive cabin and cleared his farm which was thickly timbered. Our subject's maternal grandfather, Daniel was a native of VA and of Dutch descent. Charles L. Blake was called from life in 1878. He was laid to rest by the side of his wife who died in 1864. They were the parents of 8 children, two sons six daughters, our subject being the second in order of birth. He attended the primitive log schoolhouse of former years and resided with his parents until arriving at man's estate. On February 20, 1862, Mr. Blake married Louisa McGilvrey, by whom he had 3 sons and 3 daughters: Charles W; George S; Mary E now the wife of L.F. Moore; Cora E, wife of Charles Nevins; William P and Sarah E, deceased. On December 19, 1877, Mr. Blake and Mary E. Jack were united in marriage. Mrs. Blake was born October 16, 1838 in Greene Twp, this county being a daughter of James H. Jack, a native of Ohio where he was an early settler, locating there in 1825. Mrs. Blake's mother, whose maiden name was Mary Sellers, was born in Ohio and first married J.H. Blake, having one child, Minnie S, now deceased by that union. Mr. Blake located in Adams Twp, where he owned and 120 acres of farm land, remaining on that place until 1869, when he removed to one in Union Twp. This he engaged in cultivating until 1878, when he came to his present valuable farm, which has since been his home. In the late war Mr. Blake came nobly to the defense of the Stars & Stripes, becoming a member of Co. D, 78th Indiana Infantry. He is a member of Grand Army of Republic, belonging to Scott Post at Portland Mills. In his political faith he is a stanch Republican. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page. 608

BLAKE, William P -- Farmer, Bellmore, was born January 28, 1837, in a log cabin that stood where his own house now stands. His paternal grandfather came to Union Township in 1824, and unloaded his goods and family of 7 children where the orchard opposite William P. Blake's residence now grows. One of these 7 children, Charles L. Blake, born In Ohio married Barbara MILLER, also born In Ohio and they became the parents of Wm. P at the date mentioned above. Times have changed since then, although Mr. Blake still lives on the farm on which he was born He now has a handsome residence, 16 x 40 with ell, which is the third house built on the same spot, each an improvement upon the one displaced, which shows the progressive spirit of its occupants. A good barn and orchard also add value to the premises of their owner. He has 157 acres in Section 19, 175 in Section 16, Union Township. On February 20, 1862 Mr. Blake was married To Louisa McGilvery, daughter of Ira McGilvery, by whom he had 6 children: Charles, Sherman, Mary, Cora, William and Sarah, dead. His wife Louisa died February 17, 1874 and is buried in the Blake graveyard. He was married To Mary E JACK, daughter of James Jack, of Greene Township, December 18, 1877. Mr. Blake is a good, permanent citizen and votes republican continually. He enlisted in 1862 in Company D 78th Indiana Regiment 60-days volunteers and was captured at Uniontown and sent home.

BOARDMAN, Thomas, shoemaker, Rockville, was born in Manchester, England, February 9, 1826. He came with his parents, Thomas and Alice (ASPINAL) Boardman to NY in 1832. His father was a woolen manufacturer, and settled in that city, where the family lived several years. The subject of this sketch began the shoemaker's trade there, but before he had finished it they removed to Steubenville, Ohio, then to Lisbon, and next to Salem. From here, Thomas returned to Steubenville and when he was done with learning his trade he went to Elkton to help his father run a woolen factory which he had bought. He quit the factory in 1847 and came to Parke County, arriving at Morlan's mill, on the Little Raccoon on May 1. He settled and lived on Sand Creek a couple of years, farming and working at his trade; he then moved to New Discovery, and in like manner worked 2 or 3 years; from thence he went to Rocky Fork, near Mansfield, and lived until 1856, when he and his brother Joseph and Ashford MANKINS formed a partnership and kept a general store at Piattsville. Mr. Boardman kept the post office at that point. In the spring of 1858 he sold out and made a journey with his family in a two-horse wagon to NY, stopping along the way to visit relations. The trip occupied four weeks. His father and mother had previously returned to NY and settled at Poughkeepsie. In the fall he sold his team and returned by rail, and took up his residence at Rockville, where he has lived to this date. For 3 or 4 years he carried on a boot and shoe establishment, manufacturing much of his stock, and keeping several workmen for that purpose. He next embarked in the grocery trade, to which he added a meat market, taking Henry CRAFT as a partner in the latter. This partnership was summarily dissolved by Craft's being killed in a quarrel with Washington PAINTER, who shot him. After a few years, Mr. Boardman resumed work at his trade and has not departed from this since. He was married at New Lisbon, Ohio in 1846 to Edna HANN, who was born July10, 1829. They had 9 children: Sarah Catharine, now dead; Alice, Amanda, Mary Ann, Joseph Henry, Julia, who is deceased; Andrew, dead; Thomas, deceased; Edna, May and William. Mr. Boardman and nearly all his family are members of the Christian Church. He has filled all the stations from janitor to pastor, and has indeed been most efficient in all the relations he has borne to the church, and faithful to her every trust and interest. Mr. Boardman has two brothers, Andrew and Samuel, lawyers, who reside in NY City and are eminent in their profession. It was Judge Andrew Boardman, it will be remembered, and who presided on the trial of Stokes for the killing of Fisk. The Boardman family on both sides are remarkable for their longevity. His father died June 23, 1869, aged 83 and his mother May 6, 1880 aged 90. His grandfather Boardman lived to be 101 years old and his grandfather Aspinal 110.

BOATMAN, John, minister and farmer, Rosedale, an eminent pioneer, and one possessed of an extraordinarily retentive memory, capable of relating more points of early history than any one in this section of country, was born April 19, 1811, on a farm E. Of the Crabb orchard, in Lincoln County, Kentucky, and here lived until his 17th year when he came to Parke Co with his parents in the fall of 1826, and settled on Walker's prairie where he resided until about two years after his mother's death, which marks the date of his removed to Vermilion (sic) County, Indiana, to commence work for M. PATTON, with whom he entered into an article of agreement by which the latter was to give Mr. Boatman $200, or enter for him 160 acres of congress land, board and clothe him as one of the family and at the expiration of the time stated to give him a complete suit of clothing. Mr. Patton died on a returning trip from Clinton to New Orleans after the two years were up, in 1833, and Mr. Boatman failed to receive his full dues, getting, however, $100, a coat and vest and a horse worth $40. In the fall of 1833, Mr. Boatman rented the saw and grist mill on the Patton farm and operated it until September1, 1834 at which time he moved to his present farm of 160 acres, on Sec. 28, being one solid mass of timber, growing so closely together that to see a deer 20 yards was one of the impossibilities of the times; but by his energy and industry it is now a fine tract of farming land. July 13, 1834, near Patton Mills he married Anna MALLORY, by whom he became the father of one child, Mary, who died in August 1879. His wife died in 1837. Dorthy LEONDERMAN became his second wife in 1841, and he became the father of four more children: Leonard, Henry, Elizabeth and Elijah, all living. After the death of his second wife, he married Susannah COBLE, September28, 1876. They have one child, Samuel, born July 14, 1877. Mr. Boatman joined the Christian church in Vigo county, about 50 years ago and has been preaching in the surrounding neighborhood and counties since 1840, and during these 40 years there has passed hardly a single Sabbath without his having preached at some point. During these years he has baptized at least 500 souls. He is a democrat, formerly a whit. He is also a natural mechanic.

John BOATMAN was born April 19, 1811 in Lincoln County, Kentucky. In 1826 he came with his parents who settled on Walker's Prairie in Florida Township. In 1834 he acquired 160 acres of land in Section 28, which was a solid mass of heavy timber, which he cleared in due time. He became a minister in the Christian Church and for 40 years preached that faith, serving well and faithfully until his death. - Parke County Indiana Centennial Memorial 1816-1916 Page 117

John Boatman, a member of the population of Otter Creek township, Vigo county, Indiana, is a native of Parke county, this State, where he was born, April 4, 1862, the son of Levi and Nancy (Kilburn) Boatman. Mr. Boatman has four brothers and two sisters living, the brothers all being farmers in Parke county. The father was a native of Sullivan county, Indiana, born March 25, 1825 and died in 1893. The mother was a native of Pulaski county, Kentucky, born in January, 1825, and died December 6, 1908. She came to Indiana when she was seven years of age with her parents, and she and her husband were well-known and highly respected citizens of Parke county. John Boatman was reared in Parke county, and educated in the common schools of his home township. He engaged in business for himself at the age of sixteen, and has been a farmer all his life. He began at the bottom of the ladder, but has climbed to enviable heights of success. He married Mary Head, June 26, 1892, and they have had two children, daughters, of whom one is living, Florence L. She is a graduate of the public schools and is employed as a telephone operator with the Citizens Telephone Company, with which company she has been connected for five years. She makes her home with her parents. Mrs. Boatman is a native of near Union Springs, Alabama, born November 4, 1867, the daughter of William and Laura (Neidhamer) Head. There were two children in that family, Mrs. Boatman and her brother, Joseph, who lives at Los Angeles, Calif. Her father and mother are both living, and make their home with Mr. and Mrs. Boatman. Mr. Boatman established himself in Otter Creek township in 1900, and has won the respect of all his neighbors. He is a carpenter and joiner by trade, and has worked at these trades in both Parke and Vigo counties for twenty years. He has done much work for the coal companies of this region, and has been a most valuable addition to the county. He has taken an active part in local politics, and was elected assessor of Otter Creek township in 1909, serving in that office for five years. In February, 1914, he was appointed trustee of the township to fill a vacancy, and at the close of that unexpired term, was elected to the office in November, 1914. So valuable and efficient were his services, that he was re-elected to the trusteeship in 1918, and is the present holder of the office. Since his election to the trusteeship, the Otter Creek township grade and high school was erected, in 1917, at a cost of $50,000. Fraternally, he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, No. 826, at North Terre Haute, and has passed through all the chairs. He and his wife are members of the Rebekah lodge, No. 698, and Mr. Boatman is treasurer and Mrs. Boatman financial secretary of the lodge. He is also a member of the Knights of Pythias at North Terre Haute and belongs to the Red Men Tribe, No. 544, at the same town. Mrs. Boatman is a member of the Pocahontas, No. 481, and also of the Pythian Sisters, as well as of the Daughters of America. Mr. and Mrs. Boatman and their daughter are constructive and worthy citizens of Vigo county, and are admired by their many friends. - History of Indiana from Its Exploration to 1922, By Logan Esarey, William F. Cronin, Pages 204, 205

BOGUE, Eli, farmer, Rockville, is the son of William and Rebecca (COOK) Bogue, and was born in Vermilion County, ILL October 12, 1840. Mr. Bogue's father was a Friend Quaker, a republican and a farmer. Mr. Bogue Lived in Ill. Till 1861. In 1859 he made a trip through Iowa. He enlisted in CO K 37th Ill. Volunteers and was mustered into service at Camp Washington, Chicago, Ill and preceded at once to St. Louis. He fought at Muddy Creek where the Union forced captured 1400 prisoners. This battle was commanded by Gen. Pope. His company was then placed under the command of Gen. Fremont. Mr. Bogue also fought in the Battle of Pea Ridge. His regiment took boats, went down the Mississippi river to the siege of Vicksburg; then up the Yazoo, in NC; then to New Orleans, across the Gulf; and he was mustered out at Springfield, Ill, after 3 years of service for his country. While in the army he was offered promotion on account of good conduct. He made a good record as a soldier. May 13, 1867, he married Miss Rebecca NEWLIN. She was born in 1848. They have 3 children; Richard H; Almetta and William N. Mr. Bogue is a Friend Quaker, and a republican; he votes as he shot. He is an industrious and successful farmer.

John BORUFF - If one desires to gain a vivid realization of the rapid advance in civilization which the last half century has brought about, he can listen tot he stories that men who are still living can tell of their boyhood. The log cabin in the clearing, the still ruder schoolhouse with its rough seats made of slabs, its limited range of studies and its brief terms arranged on the subscription plan, the routine of work at home unrelieved by any of the modern devices by which machinery is made to do in a short time what formerly occupied the entire year these and many similar descriptions will bring up in sharp contrast the advantages of today. The subject of this sketch, a venerable and highly respected citizen of Drury Township, whose home in on Section 34 has many reminiscences of this sort. Mr. Boruff was born October 4, 1818 in Claiborne County, Tennessee a son of Valentine Boruff a native Pennsylvania where he was reared and married. For some time he made his home in Tennessee and on leaving that state removed to Montgomery County, Indiana where he spent a few years. In 1833 he brought his family to Mercer County, Illinois where he entered land, improved a farm and continued to reside until called to his final rest. Thus amid pioneer scenes John Boruff spent the days of his boyhood and youth, and until attaining his majority remained under the parental roof, assisting his father in the arduous task of clearing and developing a new farm. In Mercer County he was married in 1841, to Miss Mary McGreer, a native of Union County, Indiana and daughter of William McGreer. Also an early settler of Mercer County. They began their domestic life upon a farm adjoining his father's and there continued to reside until their removal to Drury Township, Rock Island County in 1847. Here Mr. Boruff purchased 280 acres of wild land and as time advanced he placed acre after acre under the plow until today he has one of the most highly cultivated and valuable farms in the locality. He first built a little log cabin but this has long since given place to a commodious and comfortable frame residence, which is surrounded by good barns and substantial outbuildings. To his original purchase he added until he owned 500 acres of rich and productive land lying in Mercer and Rock Island counties. His property has all been acquired through his own individual efforts, as he started out in life for himself empty-handed and has made his own way in the world unaided. Mr. Boruff lost his first wife who died March 15, 1866 leaving 3 sons, namely: William Mc, an agriculturist of Mercer County who is married and has two sons; Jackson, a farmer of Pottawatomie County Iowa who is married and has two sons and one daughter and Alexander, a farmer of Mercer County who is married and has two daughters. In Cedar county, Iowa, Mr. Boruff was again married March 15, 1868 his second union being with Mrs. Mary A. Doty who was born in Indiana but was reared and educated in Cedar County, Iowa. Her father Samuel Stephenson Smith was a native of Ohio where he wedded Mary Steel and later removed to Park (sic) County, Indiana spending his last years there. Her mother later became the wife of Joseph Lindsay of Cedar county Iowa by whom she had 3 children. Mrs. Boruff was first married in Cedar County and by that union had two sons, Dow Douglas Doty, a ranchman of Wyoming who is married and has one daughter and JR Doty who is also married and has one daughter and is living with his brother in the west. One son has been born of the 2nd marriage, Samuel H. Boruff who now operates the old home place for his father. He is married and has one son, Charles S. Mr. Boruff has been a lifelong supporter of the Democratic party but ha never cared for the honors or emoluments of public office, preferring to give his undivided attention to his business interests. He attends the Presbyterian Church of which his wife is a member and contributes to its support, and as a public-spirited citizen has borne his part in promoting those enterprises for the good of the community along various lines. For a half century he has been numbered among the valued and useful man of the county and has the respect and esteem of all who know him. - The Biographical record of Rock Island County, Illinois. Chicago: S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1897, Page 417

Aaron BOWERS is a retired farmer living with his sister, Miss Elizabeth Bowers, No. 371 W. North Street in Galesburg. He was born in Highland County Ohio March 21, 1829 son of Silas and Phoebe Lewis Bowers, who were natives of Virginia or Pennsylvania. The maternal grandparents were Jonathan and Elizabeth Feasel Lewis, both of whom lived to old age and reared a family of several children, namely: Isaac, Phoebe, Aaron, John, Christina, Nancy and Barney. Silas Bowers, father of our subject became a farmer of Highland County, Ohio and afterward removing westward was an early settler of Parke County, Indiana. He passed away in Vermilion County, Indiana about 60 years of age. His wife survived him and passed away in 1897 at age 82 and 8 months. She was a consistent member of the Methodist Church. In their family were 10 children: Mary Ann, who is the widow of John Wilson and resides in Sigourney Iowa; Aaron of this review; Elizabeth living in Galesburg; Sarah wife of J.H. Griggs of Wheaton Illinois; Christina the deceased wife of William Redford; Lucinda, the deceased wife of J. A. McCoy and four who passed away in early life. Aaron Bowers spent a part of his youthful days in Ohio and also remained for a time in Indiana. He pursued his education in one of the old time log cabin subscription schools. He was a particularly fine speller and knew the old elementary spelling book by heart. In 1855 he came to Illinois, settling in Warren County where he purchased a quarter section of land in Coldbrook for which he paid $25 per acre. Later he bought a farm in Floyd Township where he now owns 400 and half acres, in addition to his 160 acres tract in Coldbrook Township and a farm of 240 acres in Iowa. He lived in Coldbrook and Floyd Township for 45 years but has made his home in Galesburg for the past 11 years and in this city owns a fine home where he lives retired, he and his sister Elizabeth living together. While his life was devoted mainly to general agricultural pursuits, in which line of business he won substantial success, he has also done some public service, acting as road commissioner for 12 year sand as school director for one term. - Perry, Albert J. History of Knox County, Illinois : its cities, towns and people Chicago: S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1912, Page 385

J. R. BOWLES, prominent as a contractor of Kansas City, where he has made his home since 1879 removed from Keokuk, Iowa, to the metropolis of western Missouri for the purpose of engaging in the contracting and building business here, as he felt the rapid growth of the city offered a splendid field. He is a native of Ohio and in early life served an apprenticeship at the wagon makers' trade in Rockville, Parke County Indiana under the direction of his uncle. In 1853 he removed west of the Mississippi, settling at Keokuk, Iowa where he learned and followed carpentering, becoming an expert workman in that line. He afterward lived for 4year sin south western Missouri but had to leave that section of the state about the time of the outbreak of the Civil War because of the hostility he aroused form the fact he voted for Abraham Lincoln. His brother, TC Bowels, was a Capt and major of the 15th Ohio serving also as quartermaster of his regiment, which was then a part of the 20th Brigade. He continued with that command until he retired to take charge of the building of the hospital at Jefferson, Indiana and acted as supt. of the construction of this building which was erected at a cost of one million, 500 thousand dollars. During the period of the war, J. R. Bowles was employed in the quartermaster's department. Since that time he has largely given his attention to building operations. He was located for a long period in Keokuk, Iowa and as stated came then to Kansas City in 1879 to join the representatives of contracting and building interesting in this city. For some years he was identified with much of the best building going on in the city, erecting many prominent homes and fine business blocks and receiving a liberal and growing patronage. During the last two years however he has not been very active in building. A year ago he was appointed city inspector of granitoid walks and curbing and has entire charge of same at the present time, together with all new construction work of this character. In 1853 occurred the marriage of Mr. Bowles and Miss Mary Ann McEberry of Missouri the wedding being celebrated in Keokuk, Iowa on 30 August of that year. They have 3 living children: Charles M, who is engaged in the mining business in Los Angeles, California; Ida M. at home; and Lou the wife of Oliver N. Axtell. They lost 3 children. In politics Mr. Bowles has always been a stalwart republican active in the ranks of the party since its organization and standing at all times loyally for the interests of this great political party which was the defender of the Union in the dark days of the Civil War and has always been the party of reform, progress an improvement - Whitney, Carrie. Kansas City, Missouri. Chicago: S J Clarke, 1908, Page 494

John N. BOWSHER, one of the attractive rural homes of Parke County is located in Liberty Township and is the property of the subject of this notice. The farm comprises 443 acres of finely improved land, and is embellished with all the buildings necessary tot he proper management of the place. The owner, Mr. Bowsher, was born in Penn Township, Parke County, Indiana on August 13, 1843 and is a son of Joseph and Marinda KENNEDY Bowsher. The paternal grandfather of our subject, Jacob Bowsher, was born in Pennsylvania and migrated to Montgomery County Ohio whence after a residence of a few years, removed in the fall of 1823 to Parke County and settled in Penn Township. Here he entered and improved about 240 acres and became one of the well-known farmers of this portion of the state. He gave to each of his sons 80 acres of land and in other ways aided them upon starting out for themselves. In the United Brethren Church he was prominent and his house was used as the place of holding the first meeting of the few members of that denomination then residing in Penn Township. He was a leader in the organization of the church in his community and remained faithful to its doctrines until his death. His wife, whose maiden name was Margaret BLOXOM, survived him about 15 years. Their children were; John, Joseph, Polly, Peter and Jacob. Joseph Bowsher was born in Ohio in 1816 and accompanied his parents on their removal to Parke Co, where he cleared and improved 240 acres in Liberty Township. In addition to this land, he owned other farms aggregating 300 acres. He built the first grist mill in Montezuma and this he operated for a few years, but at considerable loss financially. The village of West union lost a public spirited citizen when he died in August 1888 (sic). He was a leading member of the united Brethren Church in that place and with his own means with little or no aid from others, erected the first church of that denomination in his community. One child, Russell W. was born of the first marriage of Joseph Bowsher. The wife and mother was a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and died in June 1840. She was a daughter of William and Sarah RUSSELL KENNEDY, natives of Pennsylvania who came to Ohio and thence in the fall of 1822 removed to Indiana and made settlement in Reserve Township, Parke County During the winter following his arrival here, Mr. Kennedy engaged in teaching and in the spring of 1823 entered 240 acres in Liberty Township. About 1837 he sold that property and moved to Clay Co, Indiana where he purchased and improved 200 acres and also for a time was proprietor of a hotel. He departed this life in 1872; his wife had died some 12 years prior to his demise. They were the parents of 3 sons and 4 daughters. In his political preference Mr. Kennedy was a strong Whig and Abolitionist. Religiously, he was a Methodist. He was the son of Martin Kennedy who emigrated from Ireland in Colonial days and settled in Pennsylvania. The family is of Scotch origin and one of the ancestors participated in the siege of Boyne. The second wife of Joseph Bowsher was Marinda Kennedy, a sister of the first wife and mother of 5 children: John N; Rebecca J; Peter; Daniel and Sallie. It is with the eldest of these children we are especially interested. John N. Bowsher received a district school education and at the age of 20 commenced to farm for himself, operated a tract of 200 acres which formed a part of the old homestead of his grandfather. He traded that property for 160 acres a part of his present farm. This he had until he is the owner of 443 acres in addition to which his wife owns 23 acres in Reserve Township. In politics Mr. Bowsher affiliates with the Democratic Party and socially is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In September 1863, our subject married Margaret HUXFORD who was born in Reserve Township, Parke Co In and is a daughter of Charles W. and Margaret REDDEN Huxford. Her father was a blacksmith in early life and later followed farming pursuits. Mr. and Mrs. Bowsher are the parents of 4 children: Marinda, wife of Erastus Garrard; Margaret who died when 19 was married to J. P. Shoup and left one child, Margaret who makes her home with our subject and William A, who is at home. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Parke, Montgomery and Fountain Counties, Page. 354 -- Chapman Bros 1893

Andrew BOYD who resides in Section 21, Township 32 Range 22 in Sheridan Township, has followed farming and carpentering in this vicinity for many years and has been decidedly successful. He is a native of Parke County, Indiana where he was born March 7, 1836 and is a son of Andrew and Elizabeth Butcher Boyd. The parents of our subject were born and reared near Lexington, Kentucky and were married there. They removed to Parke County, Indiana at a time when the country was sparsely settled and it was still unsafe because of hostile Indians. He cleared a farm and continued there until 1844 when he moved west to Keokuk County, Iowa where he took a claim. After his death in 1846, his widow and children returned to Parke County, Indiana in 1847. The children were: John, deceased; Isaac, deceased; Eliza Ann, deceased; William, deceased; Margaret deceased; Jane, deceased; Clark who lives in Omaha, N. B.; Andrew; Dorcas of Parke County and Samuel, deceased. Andrew Boyd had no chance for schooling and lived with his mother until his marriage; he then moved to Putnam County, Indiana where he farmed and engaged in carpentering until 1865. He then removed to Mahaska County, Iowa and 4 months later to Cherokee County, Kansas taking up 160 acres in Section 14, Sheridan Township. The land had not been surveyed at that time and he was not sure of his location. He put up a cabin 16' square with clapboard door and then helped others to build their homes. In addition to carpentering and farming, he did considerable masonry work both in brick and stone. He lived on his first farm two years, then sold and bought his present farm in section 21, also a tract of 26 acres in Section 16, all in Township 32, Range 22, on which property he put all the buildings and made all the improvements. He built his present comfortable home in 1880, and has lived on it since. He raises wheat, corn and oats and is also engaged in stock raising, having a large number of cattle, horses and mules. He has continued at his trade as a carpenter, and in 1867 built the first ferry boat in Labette Co. He also owns 120 acres of land in Sections 8 and 17, Township 32, Range 22 in Sheridan Township. On October 21, 1858, Mr. Boyd was joined in marriage with Edith C. HOLLADAY who was born in Parke County, Indiana and is a daughter of William and Maria Scott Holladay, her father a native of North Carolina and her mother, South Carolina. William Holladay located in Orange County, Indiana when a boy, accompanying his father at a time when it was necessary to live within the fort because of Indians. He later went to Ilinois and ran a flat boat to New Orleans. In later years he followed the trade of a saddler in Vermilion County, Illinois . He and his wife died in Putnam County, Indiana. Our subject and his wife are parents of 10 children: Carrie and Charles deceased; Lillie, wife of D. W. Owen of Labette County, Kansas; William deceased; Minnie wife of Ed. McDaniel of Labette County, Kansas; Allen, deceased; Stella, wife of David Holt; Daisy, wife of Allen Rennie of Sheridan Township; Cooper who married Mary Miller and lives at home and Clyde who has exhibited talent as an artist is living at home. Mr. Boyd is a Democrat in politics but has never sought nor held office. Religiously, he has been a member of the Christian Church since 1856 the first church services having been held in the old log school house at Sherman City which was put up by our subject in 1867. - Allison, Nathaniel Thompson. History of Cherokee County, Kansas and representative citizens. Chicago, Illinois.: Biographical Publishing Company, 1904, Page 403

BOYD, Andrew J., farmer and stock raiser, Waveland was born in Parke County, and is the son of James and Maria (YOUNG) Boyd. His father emigrated to Parke County From Ohio in 1816. His mother is a native of Virginia, and she first immigrated to Ohio, with her parents and then to Indiana. Mr. Boyd was first married to Nancy CROOKS, daughter of William W. Crooks. By this union he has one child, Laura E. He was married a second time to Martha A. Mclord, daughter of Oliver and Charlotte (PENN) Mclord. She was born in Bourbon County, Kentucky in 1843 and is a descendant of William Penn on her mother's side. Mr. Boyd and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church the former since 1867, the latter since she was 10. He was educated in the pioneer schools of Parke Co and is a thorough, practical businessman. He owns a farm of 559 1/2 acres. His present wife was educated at Crawfordsville, and formerly followed teaching school. She is accomplished in the art of painting and fancy work, which the results of her skill and efforts testify. She has at times been a newspaper correspondent and her poems have frequently appeared in our journals. By this marriage Mr. Boyd has one child. He was a member of the grange. In politics he is a democrat. In the election of county officers he votes for men, not party. (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill)

BOYD, Harrison, farmer, Rockville, was born in Tennessee May 28, 1819 and is the son of William B. Boyd. The latter was born in Albemarle, Co Virginia. He was a farmer, a Methodist and democrat. In 1833 the subj. Of this sketch went with his parents to Hendricks Co IN and in 1835 Parke. Mr. Boyd was married November 3, 1846 to Miss Rebecca LEWIS who was born in Ohio May 30, 1822 and is the daughter Jason and Nancy (ASHFORD) Lewis. Their children are: James M, who married Margaret McCampbell; Ann L; Lewis, who is a farmer/school teacher; William; Mary E; Albert H. And Eldridge. His son James taught school several terms and attended school at Farmersburg and graduated from the first medical college in Philadelphia. Before attending school he read in the office of Dr. CROSS of Rockville. He is now a practicing physician at Harveysburg, Fountain County, Indiana. Mr. Boyd commenced farming for himself in 1840 in poor circumstances. He now owns a good farm of 134 acres for which he paid $50 per acres and upon which he is preparing to build a new house. Mr. Boyd and wife are members of the Methodist Church. Mr. Boyd is a democrat in politics and is a man who believes in progress and improvement. He is an honest, hard working, good-natured gentleman.

Harrison BOYD - But few of the farmers of Parke County have met with more genuine success than our subject, whose agricultural development has played an important part in Adams Township, where he has large landed interests and extensively engaged in farming. Mr. Boyd was born in Hawkins County Tennessee May 23, 1818. He is the sixth in order of birth in a family of 12 born to William and Huldy M. (EPISON) Boyd. William Boyd was born in Albemarle County Virginia and was the son of John Boyd who was probably born in North Carolina. The last named gentleman served in the Revolutionary War after which he came form North Carolina to Indiana and settled in Hendricks County. He married Huldy Maria Epison a daughter of William Epison who was a soldier of Revolutionary fame. After living in North Carolina for a short time, Mr. and Mrs. Boyd moved to Tennessee where they remained for several years and then came to Indiana, where they located in Hendricks Co and engaged in farming. Here he made a good livelihood, but not being wholly satisfied came to Parke County in 1835 and located in Adams Township. There are two brothers and three sisters now living. Mr. Boyd was a soldier in the War of 1812 from which he returned safely and subsequently journeyed Westward with a view of finding a location, but was taken sick and died in a place unknown to the family. Mr. Boyd of whom we write was educated in an old log schoolhouse in Adams Township, but when he had reached his twentieth year he was obliged to help support the family. In 1846 our subject was married to Miss Rebecca LEWIS, who came with her parents from Ohio to Indiana about 1841, when 19 years of age. She was born May 30, 1822 to Jason and Nancy Lewis in Columbiana County, Ohio. After his marriage our subj. bought 118 acres of land, for which he paid $50 per acres. He at once began cultivating and improving this land, which he has since developed into a fine farm, and thereon has made his home ever since. His estate is well attended to, betokening a skillful management and the neat appearances of his residence, barns, and other necessary outbuildings make of the place one of the most attractive in the township. He worked early and late facing the hardships that fell to his lot, was prudent and economical when it was necessary, and invested his money judiciously. The children that were born to our subject and his wife were 7 in number, all of whom are living, viz.: James M, who is practicing medicine at Annapolis; Anna, who is at home; Lewis, a farmer in Adams Township; William who is an active farmer near Marshall, this county; Mary, the wife of John HANN who lives in Beatrice, Nebraska, where he is engaged in the mercantile business; Albert who is farming in Adams Township and Elbridge, farming at home. Our subject has now 141 acres of some of the best improved land in this township, which is under a good state of cultivation. Politically, he is a supporter of the Democratic Party and has held the office of Supervisor of his township. He is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and remains true to the faith. Mr. Boyd has gathered together his riches by unremitting toil, displaying good common sense, able powers of calculation and the strict honesty in his dealings which has always characterized him as a gentleman. He is now living in retirement; feeling assured that the progress of his farm is secure in the hands of his son, Elbridge. He has the reputation of being one of the oldest settlers now living in this township. - Portrait & Biographical Record Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 174

Edward BRADFIELD comes of one of the pioneer families of Parke County and is a gentleman who has always endeavored in every possible manner to promote the interests and welfare of this community. He is now engaged in carrying on his fertile farm on Section 15, Adams Township, which comprises 279 acres of land all in one body and of this 150 acres are now under cultivation. Altogether he owns 339 acres of farm land, the remainder being located on Section 23. That much confidence is placed in his judgment and integrity is shown by the fact that he has been called upon to settle a great many estates. In 1879 Mr. Bradfield erected a residence on his farm at a cost of about $2000. Columbiana County, Ohio is the place of Mr. Bradfield's birth, which event occurred August 1, 1841. He is a son of William Bradfield who was born in the same county in Ohio. There he was reared to manhood and married Miss Sarah Robinson, by whom he had a family of 10. Seven of the number lived to adult years, six still survive and five are residents of this county, viz: Reason, who lives in Wabash Township; Hannah Jane, wife of Theodore Marshall of this township; our subject; Levi, who is a farmer in Wabash Township and Arminda, who resides also in Wabash Township and is the wife of Joseph McAdams. Our subject's father migrated to Indiana in the fall of 1852, settling in Rockville and the following spring removed his family to a home had prepared for them. His farm, which consisted of 120 acres was partly improved and to its cultivation he devoted himself until death called him from his labors April 26, 1863. His wife died on the old homestead September 1883. The father was a member of the Christian Church, being an Elder of the same and in politics was a Republican. The early years of Edward Bradfield were passed in his native county, and when he was 12 he came to Indiana, remaining under the parental roof tree until his father's death, when he took up the management of the estate and settled it. He was first married in 1867, at which time Miss Sarah Jane Cox became his wife. She is a daughter of John B. Cox, a well known farmer of this township. To the worthy couple were born 5 children: William A, who is married and a resident of the township; Reason E, also married and living in Adams Township; Minnie Inez, who lives at home and is a successful school teacher; Seth M., who is also at home and Myrtle, who died in infancy. The mother of these children departed this life in 1882. In March 1883, Mr. Bradfield wedded Mrs. Cynthia Louis, daughter of Peter Pence, who formerly was a resident of the county. About 1869 Mr. Bradfield located on his father's farm, which he carried on for about six years and then made a permanent settlement on the farm now operated by him. For 13 winters Mr. Bradfield taught school 8 years of the time in one school house in this county in the neighborhood of which he built up quite an enviable reputation as an educator. His own privileges in the direction of an education were those of the common schools and the Bloomingdale Academy. In his political faith he is a Republican and for five years has held the position of Assessor. He is a strong and active worker in the ranks of the party, and is a patriotic citizen, devoted to the best interests of his country and fellow man. He is numbered among the pillars of the union Christian Church, where he is now holding the offices of Clerk & Treasurer. He is Superintendent of the Sunday School in which he takes a commendable interest. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana, Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 418 and Page 419

BRADFIELD, Reason, farmer, Rockville, is the son of William Bradford and was born In Columbiana County, Ohio, October30, 1834. His father was an elder in the Christian church and in politics a Whig, then a republican and died in 1861. Mr. Bradfield had only a modern education, and lived in Ohio until he was 18 years old. In the fall of 1852, he moved to Parke County He began farming as a renter, but now has a large farm of 400 acres, upon which he has recently erected a beautiful and costly slate-roof dwelling house. He was married September 1, 1857 to Elizabeth daughter of Guy CORNTHWAITE. They have five children: Melvina J; Albert who died May 27, 1867; John; Hannah E who died June 1, 1866; Sarah L; Mary; William who died March 13, 1875 and Wallace. Mr. Bradfield is a member of the Christian Church and in politics is an adherent to the principles of the national party. Mr. Bradfield is a respected and influential member of society.

Reason BRADFIELD, of Wabash Township, is one of the leading farmers of Parke County. He has been the architect of his own fortune, having acquired his present competency and good estates through his habits of energy and industry. He was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, October 30, 1834 and is a son of William and Sarah ROBINSON Bradfield. Grandfather Bradfield was a farmer in the Buckeye State. He had several children by his first marriage, our subject's father being the son of his second wife, Hannah, who had two other children, John and Ann, wife of William Nowling. William Bradfield was born in Ohio in 1804 and died in 1861 in Adams Township, Parke County. He was a Whig, later a Republican, and religiously a member of the Christian Church, in which he was an Elder. In 1853 he came to Indiana in a wagon, locating on 120 acres which he improved. His wife survived him until 1882, dying at age 80. She was the mother of 10 children: Aaron of Ohio; John who died in that state; Elizabeth, Mrs. William HARRISON whose death occurred in Indiana; Joseph who died in childhood; Reason; Edward; Hannah J, wife of T. C. MARSHALL; Levi; Arminta wife of Joseph McADAMS and Thomas, who died in childhood. The mother of these children was born in Ohio and was the daughter of Thomas Robinson who emigrated from Ireland, was a weaver by occupation and whose death occurred in Ohio. Mrs. Bradfield joined the Christian Church when a girl, as she believed in the Apostolic custom of immersion but on account of her father's opposition she went away from home. Later, however, all her people became members of the same church. Reason Bradfield received only a district school education and on attaining his majority started to carve out his fortune single handed. For six years he rented land, coming to Indiana with his father and in 1861 bought 209 acres of land, which was placed on the market for $3,000. He was able to pay only $100 down, but in time, through his native energy and enterprise, made the final payment. He improved and partially cleared the place, which was his home until December 1872, when he located where he now resides, on a farm of 79 acres on Sec. 21. This homestead he has improved in various ways, having erected good buildings upon it and otherwise greatly added to its value. Mr. Bradfield has give his son and daughter 80 acres and sold his daughter-in-law a place of 54 acres. Previous to this he had accumulated 400 acres but still operated and is the owner of 356. When the difficulties which he has overcome are considered his success appears the more remarkable. He cut rails for AD BROWN in order to pay for the first plow he ever owned. For a number of years he has been greatly interested in the breeding of short horn cattle and blooded trotters. Reason Bradfield casts his ballot in favor of the nominees of the Prohibition Party, though he has until late years been a staunch Republican. On September 4, 1856, a marriage ceremony was performed which united his fortunes with those of Elizabeth CORNTHWAITE, who was born in Adams Township June 20, 1833 to Guy and Mary TETTSWITH Cornthwaite natives of Preble & Butler Counties, Ohio respectively. In 1832 he came to this county, entering land in Adams Twp, where he was one of the early pioneers. He made windmills for cleaning grain and cleared and improved 300 acres. He is still living though well along in years. His parents emigrated from England at an early day with 4 children. Nine children came to bless the home of Mr. and Mrs. Bradfield, as follows: Albert, who died at age 9; Melvina, wife of Victor NOWLING; John who died age 28, leaving a wife and 3 children; Ettie, who died when about one year old; Sarah L; Mary, wife of homer COX; Willie who died age 7 months; Wallace, still at home. The parents are active members of the Christian Church, to which Mr. Bradfield has belong since his 20th year and his wife since 1861. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain County (Chapman: 1893) Page 344

BRANSON, Lemuel -As early as 1832 was built the first church or meetinghouse. This was a Baptist church and was popularly known as Rocky Forks church. There were about 7 members in the first society. Lemuel BRANSON and wife and Jesse MOORE and wife were among this number. Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill

BRATTAIN, Eli C. Farmer, Lena, was born in NC April 22, 1841. His father was born in 1819; his mother in 1818 and died in 1860. Mr. Brattain obtained his education himself, by study and practice. He came to Wayne County, Indiana in the fall of 1850; lived there three years and afterward lived in Fayette and Putnam Counties, and in 1860 settled in Parke County He was married March 15, 1866 to Amanda J. LEWIS. She was born August 1, 1849. They have had six children: Mary J, born August 1, 1867; Sarah A, February 20, 1869; Laura April 9, 1871 died September 5, 1871; Lula R, February 9, 1874; Jemima F, April 15, 1876, died September 26, 1876; John M February 18, 1878. Mr. Brattain enlisted September 1, 1861 in Co I 31st Indiana Volunteers for 3 years. He was in the battles of Ft. Donelson, Pittsburgh Landing, first siege of Corinth, Stone River, Chickamauga, and at Kennesaw Mountain he was wounded and disabled for further duty. He was also under Sherman on the Atlanta campaign. He has always been a farmer. He began with nothing and has been quite a successful man. He is a Mason, a republican and a well respected gentleman. Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill

BREWER, Jacob H., farmer, Russell's Mills, is the son of John and Minerva (Prest) Brewer, natives of Pa, who settled in Vermilion County, Indiana at an early date, and where he was born in 1841. The family is originally from Holland and at present they are engaged in an effort to obtain a portion of a large fortune, which was left in that country by one of their ancestors. His great great grandfather, Sybrant Brewer or Brower as the name was originally spelled, was one of the first settlers of New Amsterdam, now New York and there married Sarah Webber, returning again to Holland, where they made their wills and died. His great grandfather, Matthew Brower was born In NJ served throughout the Revolutionary War, and afterward settled in Pa, and died there; his grandfather, Jacob Brewer, who was born In NJ, afterward removed to Ohio . His father and mother were born in 1813, in Pa. And in 1839 removed to Vermilion County, Indiana where they resided until 1874, when they located in Sugar Creek Township, where they are still residents. When Mr. Jacob C. Brewer settled in this township, in 1841, the farm he now occupies was heavily timbered, there only being about 1 acre cleared upon it. Now he has one of the most productive farms and beautiful residences in the township, the result of his own energetic labor and industry. He has been twice married; the first time, in 1864, to Miss Elizabeth Lusk, the youngest daughter of the late Salmon Lusk, one of the first settlers in the township; he married his present wife, Miss Rebecca Kemp, daughter of Jesse Kemp, who formerly owned what is known as Russell's Mill, in 1875, and has a family of five children: Salmon, Almeda, Governeur, John J. And Jesse Irving. His farm now consists of 340 acres. He is a member of the Society of Friends; is justice of the peace; and served during the war in Co. K. 97th Indiana reg. And in politics is a Republican. Taken from: 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana by J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers.

BRIGHT, Charles R. Proprietor of flouring-mill, Waterman, the son of John and Ann LaTourette Bright, was born In Fountain County, In, May 29, 1850. His grandfather was one of the earliest settlers in Liberty Township. During his early youth he worked on the farm, and from 20 until he was 26 years old he taught school and completed his education, and spent 1879 in Colorado and the western territories. May 1, 1880, he entered into partnership with Mr. Lewis C. DAVIS, an experienced miller, a flouring-mill at Waterman, which they erected at a cost of over $7,000. It is a four-run mill, with a capacity of 15 bushels per hour, with all the latest improvements in machinery for making patent flour, the machinery being operated by a 60 horse power engine. April 6, 1880, he was married To Miss Emma M. CARWILE, of Covington, Fountain County Mr. Davis, his partner in the mill, is a native of Maryland and is one of the best millers in the state, having served an apprenticeship in the mills at Baltimore. He was at the Attica mills for four years and during the last 10 or 12 years has been engaged at the Union Flouring Mills at Coal Creek, Fountain County, Indiana. He is married and has a family of 4 children. Both partners are good business men, intelligent and energetic and their business will do a great deal toward increasing the business and welfare of the town. Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill

BROCKWAY, James L., farmer and stock raiser, Armiesburg, is one of this township's live, energetic business farmers. He is a son of William S. And Jane (Laverty) Brockway, early settlers of Parke County He was born September30, 1835, in Liberty Township, Parke County, Indiana. He, like his father, was reared a farmer, with but a limited means of education, yet, by close application to his studies, and a firm will, he gained a practical education. At about the age of 15 he began for himself by working out by the year, and he now owns 335 acres of well improved and valuable land, all earned by his own industry and close attention to business, about two miles SW of Armiesburg. This is evidence of what a man having a determined will and industrious, straightforward habits can accomplish. April 1, 1858, he married Miss Sarah, daughter of William and Mary TUCKER; she was born In Cincinnati, OH, December25, 1841. They have 3 children: Mary J, born December25, 1859; John F, born October11, 1869 and William S., born November 27, 1873. Mr. Brockway is the present township trustee. He has been justice of the peace 4 years, and assessor four years. He is one of the few who are making a success in farming.

BROCKWAY, James L., was born In Liberty Township, September 30, 1835. His parents, William S. And Jane LAVERTY Brockway, settled on a farm in this township in the pioneer days. James afterwards locate din Wabash Township and by his energy, coupled with practical knowledge acquired by experience, accumulated over 300 acres of valuable land before his death, about one mi. SW of Armiesburg. Mr. Brockway was an honest, upright citizen and served honorably as Trustee and justice of the peace in Wabash Township. He left surviving: John, William S and Mrs. Baldwin who became the owners of the farm. John was elected County Commissioner on the Republican ticket in 1914 but died before his term of office began.

James L. BROCKWAY. Among the enterprising and progressive farmers of Wabash Township, Parke County is Mr. Brockway, who started out in life at the lowest round of the ladder and has steadily risen as the years have gone by until he is well worthy to rank with the best citizens and business men of this region. He is held in the highest esteem in this community, where he has held a number of official positions. In 1872 he was elected to serve for one term as Justice of the Peace and six years later was made Trustee of the Township for one term. In all public affairs he is always to be found furthering progressive movements, and to him in a large measure is due the prosperity of the community in which he dwells. His residence is situated on Section 13 where he has a pleasant house. Mr. Brockway is a native of Liberty Township where his birth occurred September 30, 1835. His parents, who were of Scotch-Irish descent were William S. and Jane LAVERTY Brockway. The former was born in New York state in 1803, and with his brother, Edmund came to Indiana about the year 1824, settling in Liberty Township where he entered 160 acres of land on Mill Creek. He later increased his domains and made many improvements upon the farm where his death occurred January 22, 1847. He used his right of franchise in favor of the nominees of the Whig party. Mrs. Brockway, who was a daughter of James and Margaret Laverty survived him until February 6, 1851. She was the mother of a large family of children, all but one of whom lived to mature years. Edward, who died in Wabash Township served for 3 years in Company A, 31st Indiana Infantry; Margaret, deceased was the wife of Milton HARVEY; Cynthia A, wife of Sylvester WRIGHT, resides in Pittsburg Kansas; James L is our subject; Samuel L. enlisted in Company A 31st Indiana died and was buried in Tuscumbia, Alabama in 1863; Warren enlisted in the same company for 3 years, and was wounded at the battle of Chickamauga, afterward being transferred to the Invalid Corps; Lucy, Mrs. Alec PHELON lives in Washington and Winfield S, who served in the 157th Indiana died at Ft. Jackson LA in July 1854 aged only 20. The mother of these children was active in church work, rearing her children to be patriotic citizens and useful members of society. James Brockway passed his boyhood and youth on his father's farm receiving a district school education. After his mother's death he went to live with her brother, Aquila Laverty whose sketch may be found on another page of this work. For five years he was in his employ, receiving $25 a year and his clothing. on attaining his majority he started out to do battle for himself, commencing by renting a farm. He continued as a renter for 12 years or until about 1870- when he purchased a farm of 260 acres. Adjoining land has since been added to the original farm until the place comprises 445 acres in one body. This is all paid for and well improved and in addition to this Mr. Brockway has several thousands in other property. he has been careful and conservative in his investments and his wisdom ins o doing is best shown by the result he has achieved. The first day of April 1858 witnessed an important event in Mr. Brockway’s life, his marriage with Miss Sarah TUCKER. She was born in Hamilton County, Ohio and is the daughter of William and Mary MACKEY Tucker. The former died at the home of Mr. Brockway January 2, 1879 aged 64. He was a native of New Jersey and farmer by occupation. His father also an agriculturist was born August 14, 1769. His wife, Sarah was born August 11, 1774 and by her marriage became the mother of 4 sons and a daughter. The mother of Mrs. Brockway who was a native of Providence, Rhode Island was called to her final rest October 10, 1871 at her home in Kansas. She had six sons and 3 daughters. One of the former, William served in the Indian Regulars and died at Ft. McHenry. The family of James Brockway and wife comprises four children: Mary, deceased was the wife of Robert BALDWIN; John was the 3rd in order of birth; Morton died in infancy; William s. completes the family. Since 1868 Mr. and Mrs. Brockway have been active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and are always found foremost in all good works. The former casts his ballot in favor of the Republican nominees. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 336 – shared by Karen Zach

George L. BROOKS during a number of years past George l. Brooks has been identified with the business interests of Clay County. He began learning horseshoeing and carriage making and repairing when but a lad of 15 immediately after leaving school and worked in Terre Haute until he had reached 24. Coming thence to Clay County, Indiana in 1900 he began horseshoeing, blacksmithing and general wagon repairing in Center Point and from January of 1903 until September of 1907 he was in business with a partner, but at the latter date bought his partner's interest and is now the proprietor of the only establishment of its kind in Center Point. Mr. Brooks is a descendant of the mother country of England, his paternal great grandparents having founded the family in the United States and located in New York. His son, James Brooks located in the early day in Oakland, Coles County, Illinois . He was born in New York, and was married in Fontanet, Indiana and among their children was a son George who became father of George L. George Brooks was born in Ohio 1828 and moving to Parke county Indiana was a millwright there until his removal to Terre Haute. In 1868 he went from there to Iola, Allen County Kansas on account of hill health and his death occurred there 12 June 1869 his widow afterward returning to Terre Haute. That city was her home until 1888 since which time she has lived among her children. She bore the maiden name of Mary Black and was born in Delaware in 1826 a daughter of Samuel W. and Lydia C. Mann Black born in Delaware 1804 and 1800 respectively. George L. Brooks, the second born of the 4 children of George and Mary Brooks two sons and two daughters born in Vigo County, Indiana April 17, 1863. On the 26th of September 1885, he was married to Laura Flockart, born in Clay County, Indiana and a daughter of Thomas Flockart, originally from Scotland. On 26 February 1895, Mr. Brooks wedded Minnie C. Englehart, widow of Philip Neidlinger by whom she had 7 children: Ernest and Jacob reside in Parke County; Henry and Theodore, Brazil; Alonzo, Center Ponit; and Bertha and Minnie, Terre Haute. Four children have been born to Mr. Brooks by his second union: Earl B, born December 6, 1895; George W. November 11, 1897; Ivan M, February 8, 1900, and Marie M, September 13, 1903. Mr. Brooks is a Republican politically and member of Knights of Pythias and Odd Fellows fraternities in Center Point, Indiana. - Travis, William. A History of Clay County, Indiana. New York: Lewis Publishing Company, 1909, Page 443

BROWN, Azariah D, farmer, Armiesburg, is one of the few early pioneers yet living. He was born In Nelson County, Kentucky, December9, 1809 and at about the age of 15, in company with his stepfather, came to this township with ox teams, that being the usual mode of travel in those days. He at once began for himself by working out by the month and in 1830, with the first money he ever had of his own, he bought a piece of government land in Section17, Township 15 and began to improve a farm. He also engaged in boat building and boating down the rivers, making several trips to New Orleans. In 1838, he married Miss Mariah, daughter of Abner COX, one of the early settlers and business men of Armiesburg; he was a millwright by trade, and built at Armiesburg the first mill of any note in this part of Parke County By this marriage Mr. Brown became the father of 8 children, seven of whom are living: Margaret; Emily; Eliza; Silas; William C; Harriet (dead); John H and Martha. In March 1869, his wife died and he again married, this time, in March 1872, Olive (UNDERWOOD) PLASTER. She has four children by her former husband. Before Mr. Brown divided his property among his children he owned 1,000 acres of land. He now owns 400 acres and lives one and a half miles southeast of Armiesburg, on the county gravel road. He has earned all his property by hard work, good management and economy; he is a self-made man. In politics he is a republican.

BROWN, Azariah, deceased, was born In Nelson County Kentucky in 1809 the same year Lincoln was born In Hardin County, Kentucky. In 1824 he came with ox teams with his stepfather to Wabash Township. He began working by the month and in 1830 bought some government land in Sec. 17, which he improved. He also made flat boats and went several times to New Orleans. He was a millwright and built the first mill at Armiesburg. He accumulated about 1,000 acres of land, 600 acres of which he gave to his children before he died. (Taken from Historical Sketch of Parke County, combined atlas, p 117)

Azariah D. BROWN is one of the oldest residents of Indiana and at one time the owner of over a thousand acres, 600 he gave to his children, reserving 400 to which he has added 200. He is practically self-made, as he received only $80 from his father's estate and has made everything he has by his own unassisted efforts. He has given his children $4,300 each and has always been found liberal in aiding churches and worthy enterprises of all kinds. Mr. Brown was born December 10, 1809 near Rolling Ford River, Nelson County, Kentucky and is a son of Samuel and Tabitha CARTER Brown. Grandfather James Brown emigrated from Ireland to the US with his parents when a lad, settling on the Monongahela River, Pennsylvania where the father died. He was one of the pioneers of Nelson County, Kentucky where he cleared a farm. He participated in the war for independent and removed to Spencer County, Indiana in 1816 where he resided until his death in 1822 aged about 90. He was a successful farmer and a great hunter and as fearless as skillful in his pursuit of Indian depredators. His wife survived him a few years and also attained the advanced age of 90. They reared a family of 4 sons and 5 daughters. Our subject's father was a native of Kentucky and during the War of 1812 hired a substitute as he was unable to leave home. In 1815 he entered land in Spencer County, Indiana and in the spring of the following year moved upon his place, which comprised about 320 acres. His death occurred while in the prime of manhood in 1822. He left a widow and 9 children: Lydia who became the wife of Silas Davis died in Missouri; Squire died in Iowa; Daniel F. passed away in Hamilton, Illinois; Friend C. died in Parke County; Silas B. died in Spencer County; Eliza Hadley lives in Sangamon County, Illinois; Miles W. died in Kansas; Susan is the wife of Jackson Gorden; Azariah completes the family. The father was a member of the Ancient Free & Accepted Masons. Our subject's mother was born in Kentucky. Her father was a native of Wales and served in the War of the Revolution, his death occurring in Kentucky. Mrs. Brown after the death of her first husband married Christopher Kiger. Her death occurred in Wabash Township, of which she had been a resident since 1824. Azariah D. Brown was reared in the usual manner of farmer lads on his father's farm, having but meager educational privileges. At the age of 18 he attended school for two winters in the old fashioned log schoolhouse of former days. After his father's death he made his home with his brother-in-law, Mr. Davis until reaching his 17th birthday when he started in business for himself. Coming to this township in 1824, he lived here for one summer, and in 1826 made a permanent settlement, working for $8 a month and cleared land for the munificent sum of $6 an acre. In 1832 he entered 80 acres in Section 17, which he cleared and improved. His efforts were blessed with an abundant success and in the course of time he found himself possessed of 1000 acres of good land. Mr. Brown has been twice married. His first Maria COX, who was born in Indiana, was a daughter of Abner Cox, whose wife was a Miss Dietrich. He was native of the Keystone State a millwright by occupation and erected the first grist mill ever put up at Armiesburg. He was one of the founders of the village which took its name from the fact of its having been originally an Indian camp and later one occupied by Gen. Harrison's army. By his first marriage Mr. Brown had a large family: Margaret, wife of John HIXON of Denver; Emily, widow of James HAYTH of Missouri; Eliza, wife of G. H. BORDON; Silas, who served during the war; William and John, residents of Kansas; and Martha, wife of D. Kimbell. The mother of these children died March 18, 1869 aged 53. She was a consistent member of the United Brethren Church. In 1872 Mr. Brown wedded Mrs. Olive, widow of Michael Plaster. She was born in this township February 2, 1830, being a daughter of John and Margaret GIVINS UNDERWOOD, native of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively. The former came to this county in 1827 and bought a farm which he improved. In 1833 he sold out and purchased one in Fountain County, where he farmed and ran a saw mill until his death in March 1845. He was politically a Whig, and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His widow still survives. By her first marriage she had 3 sons and 4 daughters. Two of the former served in the late war: James enlisted in 31stIndiana and died at Nashville, Tenn. The mother afterward became the wife of William JOHNSON. Mrs. Brown had four children by her first marriage: Jane, wife of Alex Montgomery; John, deceased leaving two children: Charles of this state and Mary wife of Louis Shoemaker of Page County Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Brown are worthy and honored citizens of this community, in which they have both dwelt for many years past. In his political belief Mr. Brown is a staunch ally of the Republican Party, which he joined on its organization, prior to which he was a Whig. He was opposed to slaver and has always been a devoted member of the United Brethren Church. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana: Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page. 334

Commodore Perry BROWN -- Among the successful citizens of Vermilion County now living retired may be named Commodore Perry Brown, who occupies a beautiful home at Number 1656 North Vermilion Street, Danville. He was born in Parke County, Indiana in 1852 and received his Christian name from Commodore Perry who in 1852-4 was successful in opening up Japan to American commerce, thus assisting largely in the progress of civilization on the Orient. The father of our subject, William Houston Brown, was born in Butler County, Ohio in 1814 and was a successful farmer. He came to Vermilion County in 1856 and settled at Ridge Farm where he spent the remainder of his life, passing away in November 1898. Lydia Lusk Brown the mother of our subject was a native of Parke County, Indiana born 1813. The grandfather, Samuel Brown was the son of a Revolutionary War patriot and served in a Pennsylvania regiment while the mother's father, Salmon Lusk was a soldier of the War of 1812. The latter married Mary Beard, a daughter in the family that baked and furnished the bread for the regiment in which Salmon Lusk served. Her father, John Beard, came west in the early days and was extensively interested in building gristmills. He built the first at Kankakee, Illinois and was well known among the pioneer settlers. The subject of this review grew up under the favoring influences of a good home and attended the district school at Ridge Farm, Illinois and for one year was a student at Wabash College. Going to Chicago, he took a business course in one of the commercial schools of the city and a medical course in rush Medial College. Since arriving at manhood he has been deeply interested in medical and scientific subjects but he has never followed the practice of medicine. After leaving school he began his business career as a farmer at Murdock, Douglas County, Illinois and also at Ridge Farm, approving himself with such diligence that he became a large degree independent financially. Progressive and energetic in business affairs, he was not obliged to wait long years before reaping the benefits of his efforts. His farming interests at Ridge Farm assumed such favorable proportions that in 1893, on account of his wife's health, he retired from active work and has since made his home in Danville. Here he has had opportunity for reading and investigation in science and literature at the same time possessing the advantages of society and recreation not readily available in a rural community. In 1885, Mr. Brown was united in marriage to Miss Ella Campbell who was born at Murdock, Ill in 1865 a daughter of William and Sarah Helm Campbell. The father was born in Tennessee in 1836 and mother in Owen County, Indiana in 1835. One child, Oliver P, has blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Brown. He was born in 1887 and received a good education in Danville. Mr. Brown is not affiliated with any local religious organization but he is an active member of the Masonic Order and a stanch believer in its fraternal principles. Politically he is inclined to be independent, being of the opinion that a strict adherence to one party is detrimental to the best interests of the country. He votes for the man he regards as best adapted to meet the requirements of the situation and is opposed to the introduction of national politics into local affairs. He has never cared for political honors but as a patriotic citizen assists to the extent of his ability in forwarding the best interests of those with whom he is associated. - Jones, Lottie E. History of Vermilion County, Illinois: a tale of its evolution, settlement, and progress for nearly a century. Chicago: Pioneer Publishing Company, 1911, Page 811

BROWN, Friend C., deceased, one of the earliest and most respected of Florida's pioneer citizens, was born May 16, 1805 on a farm in Nelson County, Kentucky. Here he lived until 10, when he, with his parents, moved to Indiana, near Rockport on the Ohio River. Here Mr. Brown remained until his father's death in 1824. At the age of 19 Mr. Brown came to Parke County with his mother and immediately hired to some of the farmers in the community and continued to live as a farm laborer until the fall of 1832. Up to this time he had made six trips down the Wabash, Ohio & Mississippi Rivers to New Orleans, with various kinds of country produce. In Oct. 1832, Mr. Brown purchased the 85 acres in Sec. 18 upon which the dwelling now occupied by Mrs. Brown stands. Here he lived and improved until his death, February 14, 1863, at which time he owned a fine farm of 245 acres, all earned by the sweat of an honest brow and saved by the practicing of a rigid economy. August 21, 1832, he was married to Minerva C. LOREE whose mother, Mary (CROWL) Loree, came to Parke County In March 1820 when Mrs. BORN was but 4 years old, having been born August 26, 1816. Her father's name was Reuben Loree, a native of Pennsylvania, but after his married moved to Easter NY, from which place Mrs. Lorree, in company with David Loree (her brother-in-law), the most prominent pioneer religious character in the township, came to Parke County And settled on what is now known as the JOHNSON farm, where Mrs. Brown lived until her married Mrs. Brown is the oldest settler in Fla. All, save her, who were in the township when she came are resting their last long rest. She is the mother of 11 children: James M, who graduated At Bloomington College, Indiana but on account of over study died while clerking in the National Bank of Rockville; Mary; Gelena; John T; Leonia E; Harriet E; Eliza H; Martha J; Miles J; Ella J and Friend M; six of whom are living, two daughters in Iowa; one in Attica In; one near Bridgeton while two sons are living in Florida. Mr. Brown joined the Methodist Church in 1839, and for many years held the offices of steward and trustee. He was a republican and one of the earliest and most earnest of the party's supporters. Mr. Brown was a large-hearted, public-spirited, faithful Christian gentleman, universally respected by all with whom he came in contact, and in his death Florida lost a splendid citizen. Friend M. Is managing the homestead with his mother.

BROWN, O. P. farmer and stock dealer, Montezuma, is one of 8 children of Samuel and Mary Brown, who were natives of Pa, and came to Butler County, Ohio in the year 1809, and located on a farm near the town of Venice, where the subject of this sketch was born November15, 1823 and in 1824 his parents removed to Parke County, IN and settled on a farm in Reserve township, where Mr. Brown now lives. Like most of the pioneers of this country, Mr. Brown had but few advantages, and he has had to make his own way in the world. He received a common school education, such as could be obtained in those days, and at the age of 25 he began farming for himself, and today is one of the largest farmers of Parke County He has added yearly for the last 20 years to his farm 100 acres of as fine land as Parke County affords, until at the present writing he owns 2,500 acres. All of this is due to Mr. Brown's industry, economy, and a close attention to business. As an idea of the extensive scale upon which he farms and deals in stock, we may mention that in 1863 he clipped 5,500 pounds of wool and raised 527 lambs. Mr. Brown's father died in this county in 1855 and his mother the same year. Mr. Brown is one of Parke County's most respected citizens, and was honored by the people of the county in 1879 by being elected county commissioner. He has been twice married, first to Mary Moore, November1, 1849, and the last time to Nancy Warner, February 12, 1856. (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).

Oliver P. BROWN. Time has dealt kindly with this gentleman and his wife, and has enabled them to lay aside the labors they bore in former years and settle down to the enjoyment of the physical comforts and social pleasures their adequate means and good taste make possible and agreeable. They have an extended acquaintance and have long been known as among the best representatives of the agricultural class in Reserve Township Parke County. The estate, which is a very valuable one, comprises over 3,300 acres in this township and 190 acres near Rockville. Our subject, who is perhaps the wealthiest resident of Parke County, is a native of Ohio, his birthplace being near Venice, Butler County. He was born to Samuel and Polly HERREN Brown November 18, 1823. The grandfather of our subject, John Brown was born in Ireland and went to Miflin County, Pennsylvania where he settled in Colonial days. Here he reared 3 sons and one daughter to useful and industrious manhood and womanhood and here he died. The father of our subject Samuel was born in Miflin County May 27, 1782. In 1809, in partnership with another party, he built a boat and descended the Ohio River with his team and household goods on board landing at Cincinnati; he immediately made his way to Butler County and purchased a small farm near Venice. In 1824 he sold 80 acres of this farm and moved to Parke County, Indiana locating on section 18, range 9 where he entered 80 acres and subsequently purchased 40 adjoining acres, the whole of which he finally improved. During these years of hard toil he was enabled to accumulate 280 acres of land in the township where he resided, besides clearing a portion of wild and unsettled land near Logansport. He was a staunch worker in the ranks of the Democratic Party. To himself and wife were born 10 children, whom they named William H; Nelson; Rachael; Nancy; Elvira; Margaret; Samuel; Mary A and Sidney (sic only 8). The devoted wife and mother was born September 22, 1783 and died at age 74. The gentleman of whom we write was reared on his father's farm, receiving a fair education in the district schools of the locality. In 1850 he started in life for himself, buy 200 acres of unbroken land and by closely applying himself to the pursuits of farm life at the same time extensively speculating in grain and stock, he now ranks among the best agriculturists of this section and is proud of the fact that his possessions are the result of his own energy and good management. In politics he is a warm supporter of the Democratic platform and principles, and is in favor of all elevating measures in his community. He was highly honored with the gift of the responsible office of county commissioner, being the first Democrat elected to the position in the long period of 20 years. Mr. Brown has twice married, his first union occurring November 1, 1849 to Mary, daughter of John and Rebecca WADE MOORE, who was an honored pioneer resident of Rock (sic) County, this state. Mrs. Brown was born in Parke County and was one of 3 children, the others bearing the names of Isabel and Rebecca. This estimable lady passed away October 23, 1856. Mr. Brown chose for his second wife a lady who was known as Miss Nancy WARNER, their union being celebrated February 12, 1857. Mrs. Nancy Brown is the daughter of Joel and Susannah Warner of this county. By this union were born 4 children, 3 reached mature years: Emma, Samuel and Mattie. The deceased one, Charles died at the interesting age of two years. Emma is the wife of John Adams, and they make their home in Reserve Township. Samuel died at the promising age of 20; and Mattie is yet under the parental roof. The Methodist Church finds in Mrs. Brown an active and influential member. The handsome and spacious residence of Mr. Brown is replete with all the conveniences of life, and to his innumerable friends and acquaintances a gracious hospitality is extended. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 237

BROWN, Silas, farmer, Armiesburg, is a son of Mr. AD Brown, one of the honorable pioneers of Wabash Township, and was born October 25, 1844. His education was acquired in the pioneer schools of his youth, and he was employed while young in the duties of improving a timber farm in a new country. In January 1864, he, like other patriotic young men, volunteered his services to his country, and became a member of Co. C, 123d Ind. Vol. Inf. He participated in the battles of Rocky Face Ridge, Resaca, Georgia; Kennesaw Mountain, Nashville, Tennessee; and Kingston NC and was honorably discharged with his regiment in 1865, when he returned home and engaged in farming. March 18, 1869, he married Miss Sarah, daughter of William HIXON, one of this county's early pioneers. They have 3 children: Fannie, Clarence and Jennie. He is now living just south of Armiesburg, on his pleasant little farm of 85 acres of land. Politically Mr. Brown is an unwavering republican.

BROWNLEE, Rev. Hugh L., minister, Portland Mills, was born in Marion County, Ohio December 1, 1837 and is the son of James and Angelina (DANELY) Brownlee. The former is a native of Ohio County, Virginia and came to Ohio in 1837. His vocation was that of a miller and farmer. The latter was born in Washington County, PA. HL Brownlee was a student for a time at the Ohio Central Academy, located at Iberia, Ohio. He went from there to Westminster College, located in Lawrence County, PA from which he graduated with the degree of A. B. . He then took a four years' course in theology under the instruction of Dixon and S. G. McNeel, theological professors in the Associate Presbyterian church. The former died one year after Mr. Brownlee began his course. Having finished his course in theology he was ordained a minister in the Associate Presbyterian church and sent out as licentiate minister. While thus engaged he traveled in the states of Indiana, Iowa, Kansas and Pennsylvania. In 1869, he was called to the pastor ship of the Associate church at Portland Mills, which he still retains. In 1872, he was sent by the church authorities to Philadelphia for the purpose of organizing a society in that place, which he did. He was married in 1868 to Miss Anna HINDMAN of Washington, Iowa and settled at Portland Mills in Parke County, Indiana. By this union they had 3 children, all of whom are deceased, including the mother, who died April 9, 1875. In 1876, Mr. Brownlee was married a second time to Miss Issalina M. McGregor, of Adams County, Iowa. She is the daughter of John A. And Agnes (IRWIN) McGregor, both natives of Pa. Mrs. Issalina Brownlee graduated in 1870 at Monmouth College, Illinois, with the honors of her class, in the degree of AB and in 1873 she received the degree of A.M. from the same school. For a time after completing her collegiate course she was a professional teacher. Mr. Brownlee educated himself in part by alternately teaching and attending school. He has one child, Agnes, by his present wife. He and his wife are highly respected Christians and citizens. In politics he is a stanch republican, who even when a boy feared not to manifest his principles. While at Iberia he several times assisted runaway slaves to obtain their liberty, in company with the president of the school. With others to the students, he assisted with a gun, in capturing some slave hunters who had crossed over the Ohio. The slave hunters being captured, their heads were soon barbered and they soon tied to a tree. The same moral suasion was used to induce them to quite the state and cease man hunting, that slaveholders used when their slaves deviated from their ritual, namely, the lash. The whip was administered by some colored students.

Edward S. BRUBECK, one of the active and wide-awake young businessmen of Parke County is a resident of Rockville and is proprietor of "The Elephant" which is the largest clothing and furnishing goods store in the place. This concern does a business of about $30-40,000 annually, and during the busy season our subject employs regularly four or more clerks. He also has a cashier and uses the Standard Cash Carrier System in his store. Mr. Brubeck was born in the southern part of Indiana, Harrison County May 2, 1860. His father, Phillip Brubeck was a prominent farmer and early settler of the county to which he came from Augusta Co, Virginia about the year 1843. He then purchased the land on which he still resides. He had a family of 8 children, of whom our subject is the 5th in order of birth. His educational privileges were principally those of the public schools though he attended the school at Hartsville, Indiana and afterward went to the Valparaiso Commercial College from which he was graduated in March 1881. After completing his studies, he began clerking in a clothing store at New Albany, Indiana and then went into business for himself at Browns, Edwards County, Illinois being engaged in general merchandising about two and one half years. It was in July, 1887, that he came to Rockville and bought out the firm of A. Mossler & Son who ran a large store in this place and here he has made quite a success of his business transactions. His store is located at Number 13 & 14 Ohio Street where he has a space 137' in depth. He carries a large assortment of goods in his line and has the trade of much of the surrounding country, as well as the immediate village. At the home of the bride's parents in Byrneville, Indiana, in May 1886 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Brubeck and Miss Fanny C. LEVI. They have two children, Etta Erman and Julia Catherine. Mrs. Brubeck is a well educated and cultured lady, who presides over her pleasant home with grace and dignity and with rare tact and womanly courtesy makes welcome the many friends of herself and husband. Our subject is also very popular in social circles, and, like his estimable wife, delights to extend a hospitable greeting to his associates and friends. In his political principles he is a staunch Republican and is always actively concerned in the welfare of his party. He is also interested in civic organizations, being a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and of Knights of Pythias. For some time he has been President of the Business Men's Association in Rockville, which is an organization having for its object the advancement of the business, social and moral interests of the community and county. Though he is comparatively young in the mercantile field, our subject has developed a marked talent as a business man, and has already attained a position which men of much greater experience have failed to reach. Personally, he is very highly thought of, and is known to be thoroughly upright and honorable in his business methods. - Portrait & Biographical Records of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 147

BRUNOT, Charles, farmer, Jessup, was born in Bougy, France and is the son of Peter and Francis PUTRIT Brunot, both born In France. In 1831, the family sailed to America embarking May 14 and landing the latter part of June and engaged in farming near Cape Vincent. In 1837 Charles set out for Chicago, where he worked awhile. He aided in laying out Manitowoc, Michigan. He made a trip through Danville, Illinois and to Terre Haute where he found employment on a flatboat and went to New Orleans. He returned and was employed as engineer in the grist and saw mill of John BURSON. Leaving this position he traveled to New Orleans and St. Louis through Iowa and back through Missouri and to Terre Haute. In 1842, in connection with a partner, he bought a mill site in Florida Township, Parke County And built a mill. This he finally disposed of and bought land and now owns 135 acres in Parke Co and 80 acres in Illinois. He has made several trips to NY, traveling by water and much of the distance on foot. He is a solid democrat, was raised among Catholics and is known as an honest, straightforward man. His father fought under Napoleon Bonaparte at the battle of Marengo, and was there wounded. The Brunots were farmers in France and remember well their sunny land. Mr. Brunot was married in 1842 to Jane ROMAN and has 3 children: Jacob W, Amanda and Jane. His wife died February 25, 1851. He was again married to Ellen WOOD in 1854 who died the same year. In 1855, he was married To Mary E. BENSON. He has 7 children: Jacob W, Amanda, Jane, Charley, Ellen, Mary and Hubert. 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

BRYANT, J.P., farmer, Bloomingdale, was born in Wayne County, NC, May 6, 1831, and came with his parents to Parke County In 1840, and settled on the farm now owned by Thomas Outland, subsequently removing to where Mr. Bryant now lives. Here his father, Edwin Bryant died April 4, 1864 and his mother, Martha WOODARD, June 27, 1874. In 1854, the subject of this sketch was married to Miss Percey MORRIS, daughter of William Morris, and they have a family of six children: William E; Martin L; Martha C; Mary B; Frances V. And Caroline M. (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).

BRYANT, William Perkins was born in Mercer County, Kentucky August 3, 1806. His mother died when he was quite young; afterward his father moved to Shakertown where young Bryant remained till he was 18. Not liking the customs of the Shakers, he left his family and went to Lancaster; he was entirely without means, but while here he managed to study law and in 1825 arrived in Indiana. Whether he came directly to Parke County Is not known, but only a short time could have elapsed till he was settled in Rockville. When the Black Hawk war broke out he volunteered and served throughout the campaign, a circumstance which greatly increased his reputation. Immediately on his return he went back to Lancaster, Kentucky and married his cousin, Maria Bryant, and then on horseback he and his bride traveled to Rockville. He was elected prosecuting attorney, which was a considerable office at that time, as the circuit embraced a large territory extending from Vincennes to Ft. Wayne; and attorneys who attended the courts made long journeys and were away from home weeks and months engrossed with their practice. He was circuit judge two or three terms; about 1838 he formed a partnership with Gen. HOWARD. Up to 1840 he had been a Whig but in that year he joined the Democrats. Gen. Howard was the democratic. Candidate for governor against Samuel BIGGER, which was probably the motive for the change. That year the democrats were swept from power and his partner failed of election. When they reinstated Judge Bryant was rewarded by Pres. POLK with the appointment of Chief Justice of Oregon. The judge was at this time broken down in fortune and while residing in Oregon improved the occasion to better his circumstances. Gen. Joseph LANE of Indiana was then governor of the territory and the two engaged together in lumbering and when Judge Bryant returned to the states his losses were fully repaired. Near the close of his life he aspired again to be circuit judge, but was beaten for the office by Judge COWAN. Judge Bryant was large of stature and had a splendid physique; in disposition he displayed the characteristic fiery temper of the south and had hardly better command of it than the representative southern; but he was a kindhearted man, liberal in his views and a respecter though not a professor of religion. He was a cultured gentleman, forcible but not pleasant speaker and was well read in the law. He died October 10, 1860.

BUCHANAN, Alexander was born In Mercer Co Kentucky November25, 1813. His parents emigrated from Mercer Co and settled in Parke Co Indiana in 1821. Mr. Buchanan has resided ever since on the farm where they located when they came to this county. Here he grew up and received a common school education. In 1845, he was elected by the Whig party to fill the office of justice of the peace and he has served every term since, having acted in that capacity for 35 years. Mr. Buchanan's father died in this county October7, 1837. Mr. Buchanan was married January 24, 1839 to Miss Harriet ALLEN, daughter of Benjamin and Margaret Allen, who came from Shelby Co Kentucky to Parke Co in 1831 and settled on the farm now owned by E. C. . RUSSELL, where her father died in 1849 and her mother about 1838. Mr. Buchanan's family consists of three children living: Joseph C; Elizabeth wife of John McMurtry and William Y. Mr. Buchanan, at the present writing, is in full possession of all his faculties. He cast his first vote for President for Henry Clay, and since the organization of the republic party, he has always cast his vote in union with that party. (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill) NOTE: there is a picture of Alexander Buchanan on pg. 406

Alexander BUCHANAN for 45 years has been Justice of the Peace in Washington Township, Parke County. Politically he was an old-line Whig until the organization of the Republican Party of which he was one of the charter members. At the time of his father's death, which occurred March 29, 1838, our subject came into possession of the old homestead, which consisted of about 320 acres and to this he, with his son Joseph has added 280. As a farmer his career has been very successful and he has laid up sufficient to surround his declining years with every comfort. He was born in 1813, in Mercer County, Kentucky and is the son of James and Margaret McCAMPBELL Buchanan. The father was a son of George and Margaret McAFEE Buchanan, the former of whom was born in Virginia. The Buchanan and McAfee families both had representatives in the Revolutionary War. George Buchanan was a Whig in politics and engaged in battle with the Indians several times. He was reared under the old roof tree, but having a step mother he started out to make his own living when quite young. He had but one own brother, David who died young, and two half brothers, William and John. In his native state, he married the daughter of James McAfee and shortly after went to Kentucky, where he entered government land in Mercer County His death occurred about 1812 in the faith of the Presbyterian Church, which he helped to establish in Mercer County He reared a family of 10 children, of whom James was the oldest, the others being: John; Alexander; George; Polly (Mrs. William Provine); Margaret (Mrs. Thomas Carr); Jane (Mrs. James McCampbell); Ann (wife of Joseph Woods); Nancy (Mrs. Thomas Gilkerson); and Dorcas, wife of Joseph Woods, who is a cousin of Mrs. Ann Woods' husband). Our subject's father was born in Virginia and went to Kentucky when 18 living with his uncle McAfee. He purchased land in Mercer Co and followed farming during his life time though he was in the milling business for a short time with his brother. He was first married in Kentucky, when Rebecca Armstrong became his wife. They had 4 children: Margaret, wife of Mathew Taylor; John; George and Robert, all deceased. After the death of this wife, Mr. Buchanan married the lady who became our subject's mother. Of her 3 children, two died in infancy and our subject is the only survivor. The father left Kentucky and on his arrival in Parke Co, entered land of the government this being in 1820. The following year in October he brought his family in wagons to the place which was his home until his death, March 29, 1838. He was a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church as was his family for generations past. He was a man of intelligence had a good education for those days of limited advantages and was a Whig in politics. The gentleman of whom this is a brief biography lived with his parents until their death. He was married in 1839, to Miss Harriet, daughter of Benjamin and Margaret YOUEL ALLEN, who were natives of the Old Dominion while Mrs. Buchanan came from the Blue Grass state. The Allen family were early settlers of this county to which they came about the year 1831, settling in this vicinity. Four children came to bless the hearthstone of our subject: Joseph C; Elizabeth J, wife of John McMurtry; William Y, who wedded Mary Mitchell and one who died in infancy. Joseph, the eldest son, who in 1865 was chosen as County Surveyor by the Republicans and held this important position for two years, was married in 1874 to Miss Eliza E. McCampbell. She was the daughter of John M. and Nancy A. McCampbell, natives of Kentucky and Parke County respectively, while Mrs. Buchanan was born in this county. They have had 3 children. One died in early childhood and the others are William W and James C. Elizabeth lives within a few miles of her father's home and has a little son and daughter, Walter D. and Mary E. William, the youngest of the family lives on a portion of the old homestead. which he farms and has one child, Freddie A. The sons like their father, are stalwart Republicans and are influential citizens of the community in which their home is made. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 245

James T. BUCK, editor and proprietor of the Parke County News of Bridgeton, "A paper without politics or religion," was born August 3, 1857 in Raccoon Township, about 3 miles south of the village of Bridgeton. His father, Rev. T. M. Buck, is known as the "fighting and marrying parson." The first part of the title was given him during the Civil War. Being a strong Republican and Abolitionist, his Scotch blood would fire in a minute when he heard anyone upholding slavery, and the first he knew he was threshing the earth with his opponent's body. He received the latter part of his name from the unusual number of couples he had united in marriage -- more, it is said, than any other preacher in the state of Indiana, the number being nearly 5000 couples. TM Buck was born in Carroll County, Ohio, January 2, 1887 (sic -- assume this is 1837?). His forefathers were Scotch, but left their native land during the religious troubles and settled in the north of Ireland. Thomas Buck, grandfather of our subject, came to this country about the close of the Revolutionary War and settled in Carroll County, Ohio where he remained until death. Religiously he was a member of the Presbyterian Church. "The Parson," is a man of liberal education and an impulsive nature, but like all genuine Scotchmen is a true friend or a bitter enemy. In 1854 he came to Parke County where for a time he engaged in teaching school. He held religious meetings in the school houses, cabins, etc. and in 1859 was ordained to preach. For one year he was in charge of the Sanford circuit, north of Terre Haute and in 1860 returned to his farm near Bridgeton. He went to Brazil, Indiana in 1867, where he engaged in business and had charge of various churches, among them Bridgeton, Salem and Bee Ridge, until 1883. He then retired to his farm, but still has charge of a local circuit and preaches occasionally. In 1890 he was nominated by his party as a candidate for Legislature but was defeated. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Knight of Honor and Chosen Friends. His wife, Mary A. McCourt, was born in Carroll County Ohio in 1836, and was of Irish extraction. In a family of six our subject was second. He received a fair education and at the age of 15 commenced to learn the printer's trade at Brazil in the office of the Western Mirror. After remaining thus occupied for thee years, he returned to his father's farm near Jessup, Parke County and resided there for two years; was elected Constable and served under Squire J. C. Gilkerson. Afterward he was variously engaged and followed the trade of a tinner much of the time for six years. In 1882-83 he was in Mississippi, Louisiana and Arkansas in the secret service. In 1883, after his return to Indiana, he engaged in business as a tinner at Brazil. August 10, 1885, Mr. Buck was united in marriage with Emma GRABER, of Clay City, Indiana. About the same time he purchased the Clay City Reporter which he published until Jan 1889 and then sold the paper. Meantime his father-in-law died. At the time of his demise he had been operating a large tile factory and after his death, Mr. Buck managed this business in connection with the paper. In Aug 1888, he was elected Marshall of Clay City. October 5, 1888, his wife died, leaving two children, Mary and Grace. His second marriage took place March 18, 1890, and united him with Miss Martha A. Beaucham, of Bridgeton. In November, 1889, in company with JN Seybold, he built a large tile factory at Minshall, but the venture did not prove a success. In December 1890, he purchased the Parke County News which he has since been conducting with great efficiency. Socially, he is a member of the Independent Order of Red Men, IOOF and was one of the organizers of the Royal Eclampsus Levitas. In his political opinion, he is Republican. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 412

BUDD, Colonel Casper, Waveland, was born November16, 1805, in Lycoming County, Pa. He is the son of John and Mary (Bosworth) Budd. His father was a native of Germany and an officer in the army, both in 1779, and came to America in 1794, with his parents and to Lycoming County, Pa. In 1812, he immigrated to Ohio , and settled in Cincinnati, where he remained till 1822, when he removed to Clark County, Ohio where he died April 1, 1 850. He was for many years justice of the peace. Col. Budd's mother was a native of Vermont. She died March 19, 1850, aged 70 years, her father, David Bosworth, was the son of Benjamin Bosworth, an immediate descendants of one of the "Pilgrim Fathers." Her grandfather settled in an early time in NY, near Athens. Col. Budd was married in1 826 to Kallista A. Stratton, daughter of Timothy and Hester (Horton) Stratton; the former, a native of Connecticut, born in 1773, died in1 853; the latter died in 1837, aged 61 years. By this marriage he has had 10 children: Hulda M; Henry C; Hester a; William W; Mary B; Harriet, deceased; John T, who died in the service; Daniel C; Joseph C; Phoebe E and Sarah J. John T, William W and Daniel C. Were in the 9th Indiana battery; the last was in 17 hard fought battles. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Waveland. At the age of 15 he went to Cincinnati to learn the trade of carding and spinning, where he remained two years. He then went to farming, but disliking the business, he again returned to his trade, which he followed, working in various places, till 1836, when he purchased an interest in a carding and filling establishment in Wayne County, which he carried on till 1840, when he sold his interest in the factory and moved upon his farm in Parke County where he remained till within a few years, when he sold his farm and retired farm business to enjoy the products of his industry. In 1855, he was elected trustee of Sugar Creek Township. It was during this term of office that Howard Township was cut off from Sugar Creek. He afterward served one term as trustee in Howard. In 1861, he raised a company for the Indiana Legion, and was made captain. In 1862, he was commissioned colonel of the Parke County Regiment which was called out several times during the war to prevent depredations and outbreaks on the part of the Knights of the Golden Circle. He served one term as state representative in what is known as the" Stormy session of 1863" col. Budd, though not now an officer of Parke County, as he was during the war, has lost no part of his former interest in the welfare of her people and institutions. (1880 History of Parke County, Indiana J. H. Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers).

BUDD, Honorable Casper for many years one of the citizens and politicians of Parke County, was born On a farm in Lycoming (sic) Co PA on the 10th day of November1805. When he was but 7 years old his parents removed to Cincinnati, OH. At the age of 15 his father put him to work in a woolen factory to learn the trade of carding and spinning. He worked at the trade in Cincinnati until 1822, when he went on to a farm with his parents in Clark Co Ohio where he stayed for two years. Becoming tired of farm work he removed his trade and worked in various places in Ohio until 1836, when he removed to Wayne Co IN and bought a half interest in a carding and falling establishment which business he conducted until 1840, when he sold out and removed to Parke County, and located on a farm which he had previously bought. Beginning in the woods with but a limited knowledge of farming, he had a hard struggle to get along, but with energy and the help of a faithful and industrious wife he succeeded in clearing up his place and making a good farm. In 1855, he was elected trustee of Sugar Creek Township and served one term. When Howard Township. Was formed he was elected trustee of that township. In 1861 he raised a company for the Indiana Legion and was elected and appointed Captain. In 1862 he was appointed by the Governor as Col. Of the Parke County Regiment of the Legion. This regiment was called out on several occasions to quell disturbances raised by a band of Knights of the Golden Circle in his immediate neighborhood, and were also called upon to participate in the Morgan raid. In the fall of `1862 he was elected to represent the County In the Legislature and served through the stormy session of 1863. During the whole of the war, Col. Budd gave his warmest support to the Government and State authorities and by his prompt action, firmness, and decision of character, was the means of keeping down armed insurrection at home. He had 3 sons in the army, one of whom died in the service. In his early life Col. Budd was a Whig was a Whig, and afterwards a Republican. He has been an active worker and has taken a deep interest in all improvements, having for their object the development of the resources of Parke County This education is self acquired -- he having only had nine months schooling. In 1826 he was married To Celesta Ann STRATTON by whom he has had 10 children. (1874 Atlas of Parke Co IN)

BULION, John, -- Practical economy consists in taking care of and judiciously using what one earns or acquires. There are men who have, from small beginnings, amassed large fortunes. John BULION may be classes among such. He was born July 11, 1823 near Hamilton, Ohio, and came with his parents in 1835 to Parke County He aided in clearing the farm and attended school. Somewhat later in youth he spent some time in school at Rockville, and later still at Greencastle, in Asbury College. He taught for several terms, thus using what he acquired. He learned Latin somewhat without a teacher. He began life with $600 has been township treasurer one term; has carried on his farm, remained single and taken care of his widowed mother, who now is 86 and is worth today between 20 and 30,000 dollars and pays more taxes than any other man in the township. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Prior to 1861 he belonged to the Democratic Party but since that time has identified himself with the Republicans.

BULION, Oliver, school superintendent, Hollandsburg, is the son of William and Prudence (BEACH) Bulion. His parents came to Parke County In 1835 and bought the farm on which John Bulion now resides, hailing from Ohio, Butler County His father was born In Cincinnati and his mother in Morris County, NJ. Oliver was born January 2, 1839. As he grew he studied and gave his spare time to books and papers, and attended school as much as he was able. On account of the straitened circumstances of his parents he was not able to gratify his desires in this direction; however, he spent some time at the Bloomingdale Academy. At the age of 21 he commenced teaching and taught 15 years in succession. Working his way by perseverance and study, he became proficient as an educator, and when Supt. SILER resigned his position the board of county commissioners appointed Mr. Bulion to that office to fill the unexpired term of Mr. Siler. Soon after the board of trustees confirmed this appointment by election, this being necessary on account of a decision of the Supreme Court conferring upon the board of trustees the power to elect a school superintendent, and thus taking that power out of the hands of the commissioners. At the expiration of this partial term he was reelected, and again in 1878. His term expires in 1881, the first Monday in June. During his superintendence the schools throughout the county have been graded and the standard for teachers' examinations has been advanced 50%. Besides filling this office for more than four years, he has been assessor one year and school trustee 3 and a half. He enlisted in Co C 149th Indiana 60-day volunteers and was captured in the skirmish at Uniontown and sent home. He was married September11, 1864 to Josephine, daughter of B. A. and Sarah MARTIN and they have had 4 children: Rose E; Ada B, deceased; Edward P and Laura M. Both he and his wife are members of the United Brethren Church. He is very active in the Sunday schools of the county and holds a local relation as minister in the church. Mr. Bulion's record is one of labor and progress, having started with one suit of clothes and a saddle. He has made what he has and is a self-made man. His politics are Republican.

BULLINGTON, William - About 1825, or earlier, William BULLINGTON arrived. He had come into the state from Kentucky in 1815 having in 1807 moved with his parents from Virginia to Kentucky. He says there were not men enough in Parke County To raise a good cabin and that many of those who were here lived in their wagons and camped out. Mr. Bullington accompanied the Indians from Mansfield to St. Louis when they were removed from Ohio to the Osage country. The Indians, 1200 in number were divided into 3 detachments, separated from each other a day's journey, so that the hostility existing between different tribes might be controlled. Mr. Bullington was 23 days with these Indians when he returned. He was a mason by trade. In 1869 he moved to Union Township and now lives in Hollandsburg at the advanced age of 4 score years. Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill

BUNDY, Eli, farmer, Annapolis, is one of the pioneers of Parke County He was born In NC, December11, 1805 and at one year of age his parents removed to Randolph County, NC then to Washington County, Indiana in the year 1823, and in 1831, Mr. Bundy came to Parke Co and bought 80 acres of land, which used all his means but $14. He rented for the first year, after which he moved to his farm, where he has lived ever since. He took his farm in the timber and has made all the improvements. August 14, 1828, he married Sophia HOGGATT, a native of NC, born in 1803. They have two children living: Phillip and Mary, wife of John HOBSON. Taken from: Page290 History of Parke Co IN; J. H. Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880

BURFORD, E. N. ., farmer, Marshall, was born In Mercer County, Kentucky April 22, 1824 and came with his parents to Parke County In 1828. His father and mother now reside on the farm where they first settled when they came to the county. They first lived in a log cabin 16 x 18 feet for a number of years, but as the country improved they also made improvements and for many years have been living in a house of more modern style. EN Burford, the subject of this sketch, lived with his parents until 21 years of age, helping to clear up their farm in the woods. In 1845, Mr. Burford married Miss A. NOEL, the third daughter of Samuel Noel, who was a native of Kentucky and came to Parke Co in 1832. Mr. Burford's wife died in about 1853, after which he was married To Sarah CURL, widow of J. Curl and daughter of Jonathan GIFFORD. Mr. Burford has one child by his former wife, David H, now a resident of KS and by his present wife two children: Phoebe, wife of JA RUSSELL and William T. Mr. Burford has served as assessor of his township for 32 years, and one term as county land appraiser. He has been a hardworking man, honest in all his dealings, and by his industry he is now the owner of as fine a farm as Parke County Affords. Farming had been his business until 1878, since which he has been engaged in the grain business at Marshall, doing quite an extensive business. He had been for many years a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and is a stanch republican. (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill)

BURFORD, Henry, farmer, Nyesville, was born In Mercer County, Kentucky August 10, 1825. His parents removed to Parke County, Indiana in 1827 and entered land in Washington Township, where they still reside. Mr. Burford remained at home, working on his father's farm and attending such schools as there were in those days. In 1853, he was married To Miss Elizabeth A. MULL, daughter of Jacob and Mary A. Mull, who were from PA and removed to Ohio , and thence to Parke Co in 1840. Mrs. Burford was born In Lancaster County, PA December19, 1832. When Mr. Burford was about 28 years of age, he moved on the farm where he now lives, which at that time was in the woods. By hard work and the help of an industrious wife he has improved a large farm, and at the present writing he is the owner of 486 acres of land in Parke County His family consists of 6 children: Samuel H; John M; Charles F; Mary E, wife of J.L. SWAIM, William D and Alfred J. (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill)

BURFORD, Henry, the subject of this sketch, was born In Mercer County, Kentucky August 10, 1825, where he resided with his parents till 1828, when they moved to Parke Co IN. His education was obtained in the common schools. Mr. Burford was born and raised on a farm, and lived with his parents till he was of age. On the 20th day of January 1853, he was married To Miss Elizabeth A. MULL, by whom he has six children, al of whom are living. Shortly after his marriage, Mr. Buford moved on the farm where he is now living, and by his energy and perseverance, has succeeded in making a splendid farm out of a comparative wilderness. Mr. Burford, like all of the pioneers of this western country, has been a hard working, temperate man, honest and upright in all his dealings, and an honor to the community in which he lives. Mr. Burford's farm is located in the midst of a very productive coal country, which is destined at no very distant day to be one of the great manufacturing centers of the world. (Taken from: Atlas of Parke County, Indiana. Chicago: AT Andreas, 1874).

Henry BURFORD, deceased came with his parents to this locality when an infant of only two and from that time until his death, August 22, 1883, he was connected with the prosperity and development of this region. In short the history of Parke County, of its worthy founders and early settlers, would be sadly incomplete without the record of the gentleman whose name heads this sketch. He was born in 1825 in Mercer County, Kentucky, his parents being William and Mary NOEL Burford. The former was a son of Daniel and Anny Burford, who were natives of the Old Dominion and early settlers of Kentucky. Our subject's father migrated to Parke County in 1827, locating on land which he took up of the Government.

In the year 1852 Henry was united in the bonds of matrimony to Elizabeth A, daughter of Jacob and Mary A. DORROW MULL. Mrs. Burford's paternal grandparents were Nichols and Barbara COSNER Mull, the grandfather a native of Germany, who located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where he engaged in farming and stock raising and reared a family of eight children in the faith of the German Lutheran Church. Mr. Mull was a Democrat politically until Jackson's time and then a Whig. His death occurred in Lancaster County at the age of 71 his wife surviving him for some time.

The father of Mrs. Burford began to learn the carpenter's trade when fifteen years of age, following that occupation in connection with farming all his life. While living in Lancaster County he married the daughter of William and Elizabeth HUMMELL Dorrow of Chester County, Pennsylvania. In 1840 he purchased 160 acres of timbered land in this county and cut trees on the spot where he built his home of round logs. He improved his original farm and added 80 acres more. When he had reached his 71st year in 1875, he was called to his final home. His wife survived him until about 1888.

Mrs. Burford was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania in 1832, being one of 10 children. She received such education as could be obtained in the common schools of that early day and became the wife of our subject in her twentieth year. Their union was graced with six children: Samuel H., who married Luella SMITH and has five children; John M. who took for his wife Sarah Elizabeth BASCOM, who became the mother of five; Charles F., whose wife was formerly Isabella BOYD, they have four children; May E, wife of J. L. SWAIM; William who wedded Irene HOWE; and Albert J., whose wife, formerly Serena STRICKLER is the mother of one child. Mr. and Mrs. Burford were both members of the Baptist Church to which the latter still belongs. Our subject was formerly a Whig and afterward became a Republican. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana (Chapman Brothers, 1893) Page 565

BURFORD, W., farmer, Rockville, is one of the old and respected pioneers of Parke County He was born In Mercer County, Kentucky September10, 1798. In 1827 he removed to Parke Co Indiana and settled in the woods, on the farm where he now lives, first building a small log cabin, in which he lived until 1842. He has resided on the same farm ever since he came to the county, which he entered in 1826, previous to moving his family. In 1822 he was married To Mary NOEL, a native of Wash. Co Kentucky where she was born December30, 1800. They have now lived together for 58 years. They have 6 children living and one deceased. Elijah N; Henry; James; Sarah, wife of James ELDER; Amanda J wife of James McCord and deceased is William. Mr. Burford has long since been a devoted member of the Baptist church and was a Whig until the organization of the republic party, when he joined its ranks and has been a staunch republican ever since. (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill)

BURFORD, William D., was born In Mercer Co Kentucky September10, 1798. In 1826, he entered a tract of land in Wash. Township, about two mi. NE of Rockville, and settled there in 1827. In 1822, he was married To Mary NOEL, who was born In Wash. Co Kentucky in 1800. The family were consistent members of the Baptist church. Mr. Burford was a good, substantial citizen, whose influence was always exerted in behalf of civic righteousness. (Taken from: 1816-1916 Historical Sketch of Parke County, Parke County Centennial Memorial. The Rockville Chautauqua Association; published with other atlases in one-volume by the Parke County Historical Society, 1996) (Note: William and Mary are bur. In the Elder Cemetery. In Washington Township, just E. Of County Road #223 and is a poorly cared for cemetery).

Moses R. BURKS was a strong Union man during the war in which he lost a brother, William, who died after coming home from exposure while in the service. He is engaged in carrying on his farm, which is situated on Section 31, Greene Township, Parke County, where he owns 79 acres, having also recently sold 80 of the old homestead. In addition to this, he rents 160 acres of land, which with the able assistance of his son he also cultivates. Mr. Burks is the owner of an evaporator for making maple syrup with which this present year, 1893, he has already made 300 gallons. The firm of G. H. Grinn & Co. is the manufacturers of the machinery and it is acknowledged by all who have seen the workings of the same to be the best and most complete ever put before the public. Moses Burks, Sr. was born in Garrard County, Kentucky April 7, 1802, being the son of Thomas Burks, and early settler of that region. On arriving at manhood, Moses Burks was married in Kentucky to Miss Louisa, daughter of John VanCleave, of Jessamine County, Kentucky. For some time after his marriage, Mr. Burks engaged in farming in Garrard County, where two of his children, John and Sarah were born. In 1828, coming to Indiana, he entered a tract of 80 acres of the government on Section 32, Greene Township, after buying an additional 40 acres. The land was heavily timbered and his home was in the he midst of the forest. This farm he cleared and greatly improved, making his home upon it until he was called from the scene of his labors of the Death Angel in 1875. His wife, who was 90 years old December 13, 1892, is still living in Putnam County, Indiana. Of the 10 children born to Mr. and Mrs. Moses Burks, Sr. six are still living: Rev. James, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, located in Illinois; Sarah Ann, wife of Liberty HICKS, a teamster in Fulton, Kansas; Nancy, who became the wife of Thomas HUGHES, who is engaged in farming near Fairmount, Illinois; Elizabeth, who lives in the he same locality, widow of Jonathan STALKER; our subject is next; and Louisa J, wife of Alexander Breckenridge, a farmer and stock dealer of Putnam County, Indiana. These children were all given common school educations, and our subject went for 12 months to the graded school at Bellmore, after which he engaged in teaching for one term. Until his marriage in 1868, Mr. Burks remained with his father. In that year he wedded Martha Eleanor CLARK, whose father came to Parke Co from Kentucky with his family at an early day, settling on the homestead now operated by our subject, where the latter settled immediately after his marriage. Robert Clark, Mrs. Burks' father, was a Democrat and as such represented this county in the State Legislature at one time. Mrs. Burks departed this life September 2, 1890 leaving one child, Jesse R, who lives at home and is in partnership with his father. He married Laura, daughter of John A. PEYTON, who live son Section 32, Greene Township and whose sketch may be found on another page of this work. Politically, Mr. Burks is a Republican, and is a member of the Farmers' Mutual Benefit Association. He was President of the County Assembly for 9 months and has been President and Recorder of the lodge. In the work of the Methodist Episcopal Church he has been active for many years, at the present time being one of the stewards, and for 18 years was an exhorter in the denomination. In addition to his farming operations, Mr. Burks and his son are running a stock stable, keeping a fine grade of horses and mules. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 321

BURNS, Joseph, son of James and Mary Burns, was born in Ohio in 1822. He came with his parents to Parke County And settled on a farm near Armiesburg in 1828. When he arrived at maturity, he began building and running flat boats, which he continued for several years. In 1849, he located at Montezuma, and ran a ferry boat over the Wabash River for several years. He finally engaged in the manufacture of a superior quality of fire brick at Hillsdale. He associated himself with Mr. S. P. . HANCOCK, who still carries on the business, which has grown to large proportions. Mr. Burns died a few years ago, honored and respected by all who knew him. (Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke Co Atlas of IN Centennial, 1816-1916, Page 117)

Joseph BURNS. This prominent business man of Montezuma was born March 17, 1822 in the southern part of Pickaway Co OH and is the son of James and Mary WOLF Burns. His paternal grandfather was killed by being thrown from a horse he was racing in PA. The father of our subject was born in Mifflin Co PA and in his youth went to Pickaway Co Oh where he resided for many years. During the War of 1812 he enlisted and served as a private but while filling that position with bravery and fidelity he was wounded and captured by Indians and held a prisoner for nearly a year, when he received his parole and acted as a recruiting officer during the remainder of the war. Upon being released from captivity, James burns returned to his Ohio home and there followed his trade of a tanner and shoemaker. In 1828 he removed to Parke Co IN where he remained until 1853, when, at age 63, he was called hence by death. He was a staunch advocate of the principles of the Whig party and a Henry Clay man and socially, was identified with the Masonic fraternity and Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was a Universalist in religion and was a man of generous impulses and great kindness of heart. His first marriage was blessed by the birth of six children: Sarah; Margaret; Robert; Jane; Joseph and Mary. HIs second wife bore the maiden name of Mary THOMPSON and they became the parents of 4 children: Samuel; James; Isabella and Elizabeth. Our subject was reared on a farm and at the age of 18 began in business for himself. He worked by the day or month on flatboats running down the Miss. to New Orleans and saved his earnings until he had accumulated $500 when he settle din Montezuma. In 1849 he rented and managed a ferry boat which two years later he purchased and continued to operate until the bridge was built over the river in 1892 In partnership with Joseph COLLETT in 1872 he established the Montezuma Fire brick Co in which he had a 1/4 interest at first but is now the sole owner of the entire works. At the inception of the enterprise about 10 men were employed but the # has now increased to 40 and the brick is shipped to 12 states. Mr. Burns is also the owner of 600 acres of fertile land in Vermillion Co, Ind. Socially, he has been identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for a period of 40 years or more. In politics he was formerly an active Whig, and is now equally devoted to the Republican party. Mr. Burns was 1st married to Carolina VALLANDIGHAN, daughter of Thomas and Mary HAMILTON Vallandighan and one child was born to their union, Caroline, wife of Enos KUHN of Lawrence, KS. The second wife, Permelia was a sister of the first wife. Afterward our subject married Mary daughter of Stephen and Kate TULEY MILLIKIN, a farmer and business man of Vermillion County. This union was blessed by the birth of six children: Edward H; Joseph; Robert; Francis; Mary L and Bell, who is the wife of Frank STANELY, a citizen of Sheridan, Indiana. Mary L. is the wife of Salem HANCOCK, a merchant in Montezuma. The present wife of Mr. Burns was Elizabeth DONALDSON CANNON. She was a daughter of Walter C. and Harriet THOMAS Donaldson. Her father was born in KY in the year 1802 and in 1834 went to Rockville, Indiana where he engaged in merchandising for several years. He served as Probate judge and for several terms represented his district in the State Legislature, also serving as County Commissioner. In 1845 he moved to Reserve Township and for a number of years operated a farm. He was active first in the Whig party later a Republican. Religiously, he was identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was 3 times married: first to Harriet THOMAS who was born in Shelby Co KY and was the mother of one son and 3 daughters: his second union was with Ellen M, daughter of William COOK and this marriage resulted in the birth of one son and two daughters; the third wife was Mrs. Julia A. SAGE RUSSELL. the grandfather of Mrs. Burns, John Donaldson by name was born in Virginia serve dint he War of 1812 and married Eleanor LISHELL who bore him 16 children. In this connection, some mention of Hon. William Cook will be of interest. Born in MD he moved to Ohio and settled near Chillicothe where he made rails for 25 cents per hundred. later he went on a flatboat down the river to New Orleans. In 1826 he came to Parke County where he entered 160 acres on Sec 25, Reserve Twp and there resided until his death in 1863, age 75. He was the father-in-law of Gov. Joseph A. WRIGHT. In his disposition, he was positive and unyielding, devoted to the platform of the Democratic party and the doctrines of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His wife, formerly Mrs. Nancy MARIUM ABBOTT bore him 2 sons and 3 daughters, and passed away some time prior to his demise. – Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 303 -transcribed by Karen Zach

BURNSIDE, Thomas, farmer, Portland Mills, is one of the early settlers of Greene Township. He was born in Madison County Kentucky January 24, 1804. His parents were John and Mary (DENTON) Burnside. His father was a native of Pa, and went to SC. During the revolution he labored for his country in the capacity of a blacksmith, except toward the latter end of the war, when he served as a soldier under Gen. Gates and was in the battle of Camden. His mother was one of the pioneers of Kentucky, who realized all of the dreaded fears of early settlers in that state. When 7 years of age she was captured by the Indians at Biddel's Station held a captive till she was 14. His paternal grandfather was a native of Ireland. Thomas Burnside's parents came to Jeff. Co In about 1830 and he came to Parke Co in 1826 and entered land in Greene Township. And then returned. He was married in 1831 to Margaret WILLS. By this marriage there are 7 children, four living. Isaac N; J. H. ; David W. And Sarah M. His first wife, Margaret, died October 25, 1847. He was married to his present wife, Elizabeth a native of Ohio born in 1850 (sic) and daughter of and daughter Of David CURRY of Jefferson co IN. Thomas Burnside has a good stock farm of 200 acres in good cultivation. He and his wife are members of the Assoc. Presbyterian. Church near Portland Mills. No family is more noted for a spirit of absolute liberty than that of Mr. Burnside. His father had earned some $2000 of continental money which became worthless. Some told him that he could get the full value of it if he would invest it in black men, but, true to the republican principle of today, he said: "The money is mine, the black man's liberty is his own by creation, and I have no right to deprive him of it." This same spirit has, and still continues to animate the hearts of all Burnside family. He served as constable for 3 years. Some 3 years previous he was thrown from a buggy, breaking his leg above the ankle joint, which has made him a cripple for life. (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill)

BURNSIDE, Thomas was born in Madison Co Kentucky January 24, 1804 He came to Greene Township and entered land there in1 826. His parents, John and Mary DETON Burnside, came in 1830. His father served under General Gates in the Revolution and was in the battle of Camden. When she was 7 years of age, his mother, one of the pioneers of Kentucky was captured by the Indians and was held by them for 7 years. He had a fine farm of 200 acres, which by sacrifice and hard work by himself and his wife and family, was brought to a good state of cultivation. He and his wife were long member of the Associate Presbyterian Church near Portland Mills. (Taken from: Atlas Map of Parke Co IN. By AT Andreas. Chicago: Lakeside Building for Clark & Adams St, 1874

Thomas BURNSIDE was born in Madison County, Kentucky January 24, 1804. He came to Greene Township and entered land there in 1826. His parents, John and Mary Denton Burnside came in 1830. His father served under General Gaits in the Revolution and was in the Battle of Camden. When she was 7 his mother, one of the pioneers of Kentucky was captured by the Indians and was held by them for 7 years. He had a fine farm of 200 acres, which by sacrifice and hard work by himself and his wife and family was bought to a good state of cultivation. He and his wife were long members of the Associate Presbyterian Church near Portland Mills. - Historical Sketch of Parke County, Indiana, 1816-1916, Page 121

BURNSIDE, William, miller, farmer and stock raiser, Judson, was born in Madison County, Kentucky in 1801, and immigrated to Scott County, Indiana with his parents at the age of 12. He was educated in the common schools of both Kentucky and Indiana and came to this county in 1823, entered land and returned to Scott County, where in 1833 he was married to Nancy GINN. They have 7 children, five girls and two boys, all married but their younger son, Thomas; their elder son was in the service during the late war. The mother of Mr. Burnside was Mary DENTON daughter of John Denton a pioneer of Virginia and a soldier under Harrison and fought in the battle of Tippecanoe. He afterward emigrated to Garrard County, Kentucky. His mother, at the age of 7, was made a captive by the Indians at Biddel's Station and was made to serve her captors as a domestic till she was 14; she was then exchanged. His father was a pensioned soldier of the revolution. His wife, Nancy Ginn Burnside, is the daughter of Robert and Anna (PATTON) Ginn. Her father was a native of Ireland, her mother a native of Kentucky. She immigrated to Ohio with her parents, and remained there till 14 years of age, and then ret. To Kentucky. Five years after he was married, Mr. Burnside emigrated from Scott Co to Parke Co where he now resides. He has a farm of 530 acres under good cultivation, and keeps a good class of graded stock. He was in Jackson's time a democrat, but is now a republican of the first rank, and it is a remarkable fact that all his people are and ever have been loyal to the old flag, notwithstanding many of them lived in the south during the war. He and his wife are members of the Associate Presbyterian church at Portland. Few men have been more successful in business or more respected in the community where they reside, than Mr. Burnside. Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana. J. H. Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill

BYERS, Z., farmer, Annapolis, was born in Washington County, Maryland, February 24, 1816. About 1820, his parents removed to Muskegon County, Ohio and while in this county, Mr. Byers served an apprenticeship as miller, at which he worked in various places. He worked in Parke County In an early day and in 1845, he worked for Mr. Wright at Rockport, this county. In an early day, at odd times, he would make trips to New Orleans on flat boats. On one of these trips, he took 1,100 barrels of flour which he manufactures at Rockport. He was engaged in the mercantile business at Rockport for some time -- with Mr. Wright for 3 years -- and at one time, Mr. Byers and Co. owned 800 acres of land. In 1863, Mr. Byers sold out his interest and went to Rockville, where he engaged for a short time in the mercantile business. In 1865, he came to his farm, consisting of 420 acres, which is beautifully located close to the village of Annapolis. Since 1865, he has given his entire attention to farming and stock raising. In 1876, he was elected county commissioner, which office he honestly filled regardless of his personal interests. Mr. Byers has been twice married; in 1845, to Miss C. RINEHART, of Virginia She died in 1854, and he was afterward married To Elizabeth BROWN of New York. Taken from: Page 298 History of Parke Co IN; J. H. Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880 -- Note: There is a picture of him included in this work