Parke County Indiana Biographies  -  R

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William M. RALSTON, a resident of Albany and an Oregon pioneer of 1847 was born in Rockville, Parke County, Indiana March 1824. Jeremiah Ralston, his father was born and reared in Ohio.  He went to Indiana when a young man and in 1822 was married in Washington County to Miss Margaret McKnight. After their marriage they settled in Rockville.  He engaged in farming and trading, running flatboats on the Wabash and Mississippi Rivers down to New Orleans, where he sold both the cargoes of produce and the boats.  In 1837 they removed to Burlington, Iowa where Mr. Ralston conducted a village store and carried on farming until the spring of 1847.  At that item he sold out and prepared to seek a home in the Far West.  He bought 3 wagons, with prairie outfit and 15 yoke of cattle and with his wife and six children started on their overland journey to Oregon.  They left Burlington on the 1st of March and crossed the Missouri River at St. Joseph, Missouri on 1 April.  A train was then organized consisting of about 45 wagons and 150 people, Albert Davidson who had crossed the plains in 1845 being elected captain. Arriving at The Dalles, they were detained one week because of Indian troubles; crossed the Cascade Mountains by the Barlow route and entered Oregon City, September 10, 1847.  Mr. Ralston settled on 640 acres in Linn County the present site of Lebanon.  In 1852 he laid out and founded the town of Lebanon and established the first store in the place.  He there followed farming and mercantile until August 12, 1877 when he died 74 years of age. William M, received his education in Indiana and Iowa and in 1847 crossed the plains to Oregon with his parents driving an ox team the entire distance.  The next year he crossed the Siskiyou Mountains and at intervals passed two years in the mining district of California each trip being very successful.  He was married in Lebanon in 1853, to Miss Laura A. DENNY, daughter of Christian Denny, a pioneer of 1852.  After their marriage they settled on the donation claim, adjoining his father he having taken this claim on first coming to the territory. He was also engaged with his father in merchandising in Lebanon until 1860. In 1890 he platted an addition to Lebanon and sold a number of town lots. In 1874 he rented his farm, built a comfortable home in Albany and has since lived here retired from active life. He still owns 200 acres of his original claim and has 120 acres two miles from Albany, both properties being rented.  Mr. Ralston is a public spirited man and is actively interested in various enterprises.  He assisted in organizing and pushed to completion the Wilamette Valley & Cascade Mountain Military wagon road, was stockholder of the Albany & Sanitam Canal and is also a stockholder of the Lebanon & Sanitam Canal (sic).  He has served two terms in the Columbia Council of Albany.  He is one of the conservative and highly esteemed citizens of the town being widely known and much respected.  He is a Knight Templar.  Mr. and Mrs. Ralston have two children: Lonner Owen engaged in the stock business and eastern Oregon; and Joseph, who is now attending the Albany Collegiate Institute. They lost 3 in early childhood.  - Hines, HK.  Illustrated History of the State of Oregon.  Chicago: Lewis, 1892 Page 881

Henry RANDOLPH occupies an honorable position in the estimation of his fellow citizens and is residing on his fine farm of 200 acre sin Sec. 34, Fulton Twp, Fountain County, Ind. He is not yet bowed down with the weight of years, nor has his honorable position any tinge of venerability for he was born on Silver Island in the year 1838, being a son of Aaron and Charlotte Lunger Randolph, the former of whom was a son of John Randolph who was of Scottish origin.  The mother was born in Ohio and was a daughter of Isaac Lunger.  Aaron Randolph became a resident of Fountain County Indiana in 1826 and at once entered 120 acres of Government land.  His days were devoted to extending and improving his possessions at the time of his death he was the owner of 640 acres of valuable and well-tilled land, the result of his own endeavors.  He was first united in marriage to Miss Margaret Carnan, by whom he became the father of two sons and two daughters: Phineas, who was born in Fountain Co in 1824 married to Miss Harriet Mead, by whom he has 3 children, and is now following the occupation of farming; Julia born in Fountain Co in 1826 married to Philip Park with whom she removed to Iowa and there remained until her death, which occurred in 1870; leaving besides her husband 3 children; Jane, born in Fountain County 1828 married to David Park, a farmer of this county but in 1868 left him a widower with 3 children and Francis who was born in this county 1830 married to Debby Lindsey and is now following the occupation of farming near Danville, Illinois.  The brothers and sisters of Henry Randolph are as follows: Harrison, who was born in 1836 was married to Jane Wright is the father of 3 children and is following the calling of an agriculturist on a fine farm of 170 acres (a staunch Republican and was elected Co. Commissioner of Fountain Co in 1888 and owing to his indefatigable labors he is gradually paying off the debt of the county); Mary, a sister was born in 1840 and was married to Walter Donell and are residing at Waynetown with their 7 children: Margaret who was born in 1841 was married to William Wann who was following the occupation of farming at the time of her death in 1864 leaving her husband with one child to care for; William born in 1843 married Mary Hobert by whom he has 6 children and is following the calling of a carpenter in Waterman; a sister that was born in 1846 died in 1849.  Henry Randolph, the subject of this sketch was married to Miss Calra Cook of Walton, Indiana but a native of NY where she first saw the light of day in 1841.  She was a daughter of Barney & Hannah Osborne Cook and their union was consummated in 1860.  They are residing on Silver Island and are the parents of the following children: Harry, who was born in 1864 is married to Emma Cates by whom he has one child Fred was born in 1865 and was married to Ora Burnsides by whom he has one child; Charles born in 1866 was educated at Covington and is now residing at home; John was born in 1869 was educated in the Deaf & Dumb Institute and is making his home with his parents; Carl was born in 1877; Maggie in 1879 and Carrie in 1882.  Mr. Randolph started out to fight the battle of life for himself as the owner of about 55 acres of land that his father generously gave him and being exceptionally industrious and pushing, he was not content with remaining the possessor of that small farm, but from time to time increased it until he now owns a fine tract of 200 acres in the home farm, which is exceptionally well conducted and looked after by Mr. Randolph, who is acknowledged to be a shrewd, practical and thrifty agriculturist.  Besides this he is the owner of 120 acres of good land in Parke County and 80 in Illinois all of which is valuable farming land and under cultivation.  He devotes his land principally to the culture of corn and wheat, but raises all agricultural products and underneath this valuable land is a vein of coal of 5 1/2 feet thickness.  He built for himself a pretty modern house of 8 rooms in 1879 and here he and his wife dispense a refined and generous hospitality. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 546

RATCLIFF, Jacob W. was chosen Trustee of Sugar Creek Township, Parke County in the year 1890 by his fellow citizens and was elected to that responsible position on the Democratic ticket by a majority of 16 votes.  This is the more remarkable as the township is thoroughly Republican and is a tribute to his own sterling worth and the high respect in which he is held by his fellow citizens, many of whom, casting aside party lines, deposited their ballot in his favor.  He has lived a life time in this identical township, where his birth occurred, and is consequently well known by all the old residents.  Mr. Ratcliff owns a farm on Section 10 on which he makes his home.  This place, which comprises 77 acres, has been brought under a high state of cultivation and is very fertile, yielding abundant harvest in return for the persevering effort and care the owner bestows upon it.  Our subject was born on the 1st of July, 1854, on his father's farm in this township.  His parents are Miles and Susan Ratcliff, whose life record will be found in another portion of this volume.  They have long been counted among this section's most honored pioneers and best citizens.  The educational privileges of our subject were those of the district schools of the county.  He remained with his parents, with filial care lightening their labors and lending his assistance in carrying on the old homestead, until past his majority.  At the age of 23 leaving home, our subject went to Fountain County, Indiana where he remained for two years with his brother on his farm, after which he returned and took charge of the old homestead for one years and one half, when he purchased 77 acres of land, the farm which he now cultivates, and he has made a great many improvements upon it since becoming the owner.  He has steadily overcome the obstacles and difficulties in his pathway with commendable courage, and his efforts have been crowned with abundant success.  In the year 1882 occurred the marriage of Mr. Ratcliff and Miss Gertie WARD, who was born in Penn Township and was here reared to womanhood.  She is a well-educated and amiable lady, who, like her husband, has won a host of friends in the neighborhood.  She is a daughter of J.C. and Elizabeth McCord Ward, who are both natives of Parke County.  The union of our worthy subject and his wife has been blessed with a family of 3 children, two sons and a daughter: Theron V; Evart L; and Minnie G.  In the development and up building of the community in which is situated his home, Mr. Ratcliff has ever borne his part and his faithful performance of the duties of citizenship deserves all credit.  It has often been said that the farmers are the backbone and strength of a country's prosperity, and this has been proven to be true time and again in the history of nations.  In the person of our subject we see one of those who, following that peaceful avocation, have "builded wiser than they knew," and have left to their children and country the benefits accruing from their years of well spent toil and effort.  . Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana (Chapman Brothers, 1893), Page 620

John RATCLIFF, a wealthy retired farmer of Sugar Creek Township, Parke County is one of the most energetic and enterprising men who have advanced its interests.  He is the son of Thomas and Mary Cashatt Ratcliff and was born in Chatham County NC January 4, 1810. The former parent was reared in NC among strangers, his father having died when he was very young. Being thrown on his own resources, Thomas learned the hatter's trade when a mere lad, which he continued to follow a number of years. On reaching his maturity, he married Miss Mary, a daughter of John and Margaret Cashatt.  To our subject and wife were born the following children: William, deceased; John; Hannah, deceased the wife of Robert Tunning; Dorcas, deceased, the wife of Jesse Cashatt; Elizabeth who married John King; Margaret, wife of John McPherson; Miles; and James.  Soon after his marriage Thomas Ratcliff abandoned his trade and gave his attention to farming.  He emigrated to Ohio about 1813 and settled in Highland County where he farmed successfully until coming to Indiana. He came here in 1829 and entered land from the government in Fountain County near Kingman where he resided until his death.  He was a veteran of Revolutionary fame, distinguishing himself in several engagements, and was an influential member of the United Brethren Church of this township.  The original of this notice remained with his parents until his first marriage, which was celebrated in the year 1830.  The lady of his choice was Mary, the daughter of Walter and Elizabeth Bowman Clark.  Mrs. Ratcliff was the mother of six children: William; Walter; Elizabeth; Mary; Thomas and Marshall.  After the death of his first wife he married Miss Anna Marshall, who survived but a short time.  After her decease he was married to Mrs. Martha J. Walden, a daughter of Asa and Elizabeth Slaughter Wilson. This lady was formerly the wife of Sanford Brent.  At the beginning of his career our subject entered 80 acres of Government land where he now lives. It was then far different from the prairies of the present day, and he had all the work he could do to bring it to anything like a right condition.  Having a fine practical knowledge, and being naturally a business manager, from time to time he was enabled to purchase more land, and after he entered another 40 acres of timber land he set about clearing a place where he could erect a house.  For a time, in connection with his farm pursuits, he operated a small distillery, which helped him somewhat financially, and he is now the proud possessor of 200 acres of attractive and well-tilled land.  Besides being an indulgent father, he is also a liberal supporter of his family, and has given a portion of his estate to his children.  Mr. and Mrs. Ratcliff are much esteemed, both on account of the sterling qualities, of their character and their social position.  Their family is among the best in the county, and in all that means true home life they are in the front rank.  As a citizen, man and friend, our subject is universally regarded by those who know him worthy of their respect. His political sympathies are with the republican Party and have been since he came to understand the political institutions and principals of his country. He is a member of the Christian Church of this place.  - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page. 616

RATCLIFF, Miles one of the prominent citizens of Parke County, became the owner of 80 acres of the farm where he still lives as early as 1840.  This was then all a wilderness and had only a little log cabin upon it by way of improvement.  As the years passed, bringing bountiful harvests in return for the care and labor bestowed upon the farm, our subject was enabled to extend the limits of his farm, until it now comprises over 500 acres, where in connection with the raising of general farm products he raises a good grade of stock.  Many official positions have been bestowed upon him by his fellow townsmen, who have always reposed great confidence in his judgment and integrity.  Among other positions he has held that of Township Trustee for many years and for about 16 has been Justice of the Peace.  In his younger days he began the study of law, and was admitted to the Bar of Parke County about 1845 and has practiced some ever since. This knowledge has been of great benefit to him along business lines, if in no other way and is, no doubt, in part responsible for his success.  Thomas Ratcliff, father of our subject, was born in England, and came to the US with his parents when quite young, becoming a resident of NC.  There he grew to manhood and was married. His parents died before he had reached maturity and he was bound out to learn the trade of hatter, which occupation he followed until his removal to Indiana.  When he left the south his means were limited and he emigrated to Ohio , taking all his earthly effects in a wagon.  Settling in Highland County, he opened a hat factory which he ran with fair success.  In 1826 he came with his family to Indiana remaining one year on a rented farm in Hendricks county after which he became a resident of Fountain County, locating near the Parke County line, within 1 1/2 miles of where our subject now lives.  there he entered about 200 acres from the Government of heavy timberland, which he lived to see quite well improved.  He accumulated several hundred acres and gave each of his children a farm.  The first house 18 x 20 feet in dimensions, he put up was made of round logs, but the more substantial modern house which succeeded this was made of hewed logs.  Though farming was his principal pursuit, he was somewhat of a horse dealer, buying and settling quite extensively.  He was a member of the United Brethren Church, as was also his mother, who came, however, of a Quaker family.  For several years Mr. R. was justice of the Peace in Ohio , and was a Whig in politics.  His death occurred at the age of 75 while his wife survived him a few years.  Our subject is the 7th in a family of 9 children, the others Being: William; John; Hannah; Dorcas; Elizabeth; Thomas; Margaret and James. A t the age of 18 he started out to learn the carpenter's and millwright's trades.  Previous to this he had obtained what education he could in the old log schoolhouses of Parke & Fountain Counties.  In 1843 he married Susan, daughter of Lancelot EWBANK.  Seven children graced their union: Mary A, who became the wife of Benjamin D. Sanderson; James; Louisa, wife of James M. SOWERS; Jacob W; Jonathan A; Charles H and one who died in infancy.  After the death of his first wife, Mr. Ratcliff wedded Elmira Angel, who was born in KY but reared in Putnam County, Indiana. Her parents, William and Elizabeth TRUELOVE Angel, were both natives of North Carolina, and died when she was 7, after which she was taken to be raised by her maternal grandmother. Mr. and Mrs.. Ratcliff have 3 children; Calra, now the wife of J. W.  GLASCOCK; Minnie, wife of Ebert YOUNGBLOOD; and Miles A., Jr. who lives at home.  In 1860 Mr. Ratcliff joined the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Alamo, Montgomery County, since which time he has been connected with the organization, now belonging to Lodge No. 498 of Marshall.  he is also a member of Lodge No. 24 K of P of Kingman. For over 52 years our subject has been an earnest worker in the Christian Church, to which his wife also belongs. No man in the community is more highly thought of or better deserves the confidence which has been given to him by his fellow citizens.  Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana- (Chapman Brothers, 1893) p 663 

RATCLIFFE, Miles, farmer and stock raiser, Russell's Mills, is the sixth child of Thomas and Mary (Cachatt) Ratcliffe, and came to this part of the country from Ohio  with his parents in 1827, locating on the county line, when only 6 years old, having been born in Highland County, Ohio  in 1821.  At the date of their settlement here the country was one continual forest and they experienced all the vicissitudes of pioneer life, having to obtain all the breadstuffs necessary for their support from Shawnee Prairie, for the first two years, on account of the failure of their own crops.  He received his education at the log schoolhouse, but by study and self culture, has obtained a superior education and for the last 30 years has practiced law in addition to managing his farm of 422 acres.  The most of his time has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, and in 1848, he opened a general country store at Russell's Mills, which he operated for some years, and is now one of the largest shareholders in the grange store at Grangeburg.  He learned the millwright business during his youth and worked at that some time, putting in the first waterpower bolting arrangement at Russell's Mills. On April 31(sic), 1843, he married Miss Susan Ewbank, and August 22, 1860 married Miss Jane Angell, who was born in Kentucky and came to Putnam Co. when 3 or 4 years old.  He has a family of 9 children: Mary Ann, James W; Louisa Jane; Jacob W; Jonathan Albert; and Charles Henderson by his first wife and by his second, Sarah Clarinda; Susan Arminda and Miles Andrew.  Mr. Ratcliffe is a leading member of the IOOF having belonged to that society for 20 years and is the oldest brother in Parke Lodge. He is a charter member of Harveysburg, Annapolis and Parke Lodges of IOOF ; member and past chancellor of Harveysburg Lodge, K of P, and has held the office of township trustee so often that he cannot recollect the number of terms he has served.  He is a member of the Covington Encampment of IOOF; also a member of the Christian Church and in politics is democratic, having formerly belonged to the Whig party.  Taken from: 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana by J. H.  Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers.   

RATCLIFFE, Thomas R., farmer and stock dealer, Russell's Mills, is the son of William and Margaret Ratcliffe, who were the first settlers in this part of the township, having removed from Ohio , where they were born, and settled here in 1827.  They settled in the green woods, and put up a cabin on the land where the subject of this sketch was born, in 1834, and still resides, never having been off the old homestead over two weeks at a time in his life.  Mr. Ratcliffe received a limited education at the district school, and went to work in his father's saw mill at an early age, and in this business and farming he has been engaged during life.  On April 18, 1858, he married Miss Juletta Gray, and to his present wife, Miss Mary Jenne, April 18, 1876, and has a family of 11 children: William M; Erastus M; Miles A; Barbara J; Elmer; Laydon D; Serena M; Juletta; Anna G; Freeman R. and Ethard.  His large farm of 380 acres is well improved and fenced, and bears evidence of careful and systematic cultivation, and when he gets his new house completed, the brick for which he has just had made, he will have one of the finest places in the county.  He is a member of Harveysburg Lodge of the Masonic fraternity; and is a leading member of the Christian congregation at Pleasant Grove.  His brother, Miles W., enlisted in Co. A., of the 85th Ind. reg. and was killed at Atlanta and his body being embalmed was brought home and buried in the Chashat burying ground in this township.  Mr. Ratcliffe is engaged largely in raising sheep, hogs and cattle, and with his twelve horse power engine runs his sawmill and threshing machine.  In politics, he is republican.   Taken from: 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana by J. H.  Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers.   

Thomas R. RATCLIFF. The career of this gentleman has been prosperous in his vocation of farming and stock-raising.  He has a substantial set of farm buildings, good stock and machinery, groves, orchards and all the other appurtenances of the modern country estate. He was born on the same farm where he now makes his home, August 24, 1835. Mr. Ratcliff is a son of William and Margaret Wilkerson Ratcliff the former of whom was a son of Thomas Ratcliff who emigrated to Ohio about the year 1813 and settled in Highland County. The father of our subject was born in NC and when a child went to Ohio with his parents, where he received his limited education in the district schools of Highland County. Here he married and after the birth of one child, emigrated to Indiana in company with his parents, a brother and sister in 1829.  they came in wagons to Hendricks County, thence to Parke County, settling in Sugar Creek Township. William and his wife had a meager sum with which to start, but they entered Government land, on which they erected a very rude log hut in the timber, where the night was made hideous by the howls of the wolves.  Here in this wilderness the father and mother reared their family of children and lived happily together. The children are: Mary, wife of Calvin Dicks; John; Hannah who married Matthew Simpson; Thomas; Miles and Elizabeth (twins), the former of whom was killed at Atlanta, Georgia and the latter married Harvey Ward; Margaret, wife of C. Pithoud and Susan, deceased wife of John Hilt.  By persistent and industrious labor, Mr. Ratcliff found himself on the road to prosperity, accumulating 300 acres of good and improved land, and was enabled to enjoy his last years in a quiet home at Danville, Ill.  He was a stanch supporter of the Whig party and took a great interest in political work.  In religion he believed in the creed of the United Brethren Church.  In connection with his farming interests, he followed for a time in different periods of his life the occupation of a blacksmith and also ran a sawmill.   His life companion died in 1889 and he too passed away a few years later.  Thomas R. Ratcliff, of this sketch was with his parents until after his marriage, when he began for himself and wife by taking charge of a portion of his father's farm.  He married at the age of 22 Miss Juliet Gray, who was a daughter of M and Jane (Lough) Gray. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ratcliff: William M; Erastus M; Miles A; Barbara J; Elmer who died in youth; Lertin D; Serena M and Etta. The devoted wife and mother passed to her rest in 1875 and Mr. Ratcliff married Mary, a daughter of W. F. and Sarah Watson Jenne.  This estimable lady was born in Fountain County, Indiana, her parents being natives of Ohio and New York, respectively.  Four children came to bless this union: Anna G; Freeman R; Ethest B and Carrie m.  Our subject and his wife are members of the Christian Church, and are highly esteemed throughout this vicinity.  The former is a member of the Ancient Free & Accepted Masons, entering the lodge in 1862 at Annapolis and is a member of Harveysburg Lodge No. 314.  Politically he is a good Republicans.  He is now holding the office of Commissioner of Parke County which responsible position he has held for 9 years past in an admirable way, not only giving credit to himself, but also to the district which he represents. In connections with his farm work he also runs a sawmill part of the time and is an extensive stock-raiser and shipper.  Mr. Ratcliff began in life with comparatively nothing, and by living economically and managing excellently he has through his promptness in meeting all obligations accumulated a great among of land, aggregating about 500 acres, besides giving a good portion of his estate to his children as a start in life.  The 160 acres of land that he owned in Vermilion County, Ill he traded for his father's old farm about the time the war closed.  He is enthusiastic in all his undertakings and is esteemed and respected by all who know him. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana., Indianapolis: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 630

RATCLIFFE, Thomas J., Beckwith History of Fountain County, Page 419 -- Thomas J. RATCLIFF, farmer, Harveysburg, was born January 13, 1842, in Parke County, Indiana, and is a son of John and Mary (Clark) Ratcliff.  His father is a North Carolina and his mother a Tennessee.  They came to Parke County in a very early day, when single, with their parents who settled in Sugar Creek Township.  There they married and raised their family.  Mrs. Ratcliff died July 14, 1858 leaving 6 children.  Thomas J. spent his youth in Parke County, and there helped improve the farm.  November 11, 1861 he enlisted in Co. I 31st  Indiana Volunteers and served 3 years.  He participated at Ft. Donelson, Corinth, Stone River, Chickamauga, Chattanooga, Atlanta and then with Thomas to Franklin and his time expiring he was mustered out in Dec. 1864.  He was actively employed most of the time and received a slight wound on the head.  He has been a thorough republican all the time.  Returning from the war he resumed farm duties.  in 1868 he was married to Barbara A. Gray, daughter of Ralph & Jane Gray, a native of Parke County.  After marriage they settled on 160 acres, which he owned in Parke County.  In 1874 they sold this and moved to Fountain County, where they own 327 acres, with good buildings, etc.  They have two children living: Capitola and Sedelia M.  Mr. Ratcliffe is a Mason, and he and wife are members of the Christian, or New light, church.    

RATCLIFFE, William and Margaret  settled in Sugar Creek Township in 1827, in the forest and erected a log cabin on the land their son, Thomas R was born in 1834.  He succeeded to the farm of his father and made additions, until at his death he owned nearly 400 acres of well improved land, upon which he built a large, commodious brick house.  Another son, Miles A, was in Co. A 85th Regt and was killed at the battle of Atlanta, July 22, 1864.  Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke County Atlas of  Indiana  Centennial, 1816-1916, Page 115  

RAYL, Franklin , farmer, Annapolis, is a native of Guilford County, North Carolina and was born in 1813.  When about 20 years of age, he came to Wayne County, Indiana  and thence to Parke County in 1837.  He served an apprenticeship at the molder's trade in Richmond, In and after he came to Parke Co. he worked about 15 years for Coffin & Harvey.  In 1850, he went to California, where he engaged in mining for two years, after which he returned to Parke County and has been engaged in farming and stock raising.  He has been twice married: first, in 1844, to Miss G. Rawlings, who died in about 1862; his second marriage was in 1870 to Polly LAMBORN  He is the father of five children by his former wife.   Taken from: Page 294 History of Parke County Indiana ; J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880  

REA -- Among the well-to-do farmers and permanent citizens of Raccoon Township, James A. REA, Bridgeton is numbered.  He was born December 25, 1827 in Clark County Kentucky and is the son of William and Leanna (RICE) Rea, the former was born in Clark County Ohio  and the latter in Kentucky.  Both were of Irish descent.  His father went to Kentucky in an early day and there married and lived till after James was born  In 1828 the family of 3 moved to Parke County where the father of James was engaged as miller in the Portland Mills, remaining for about 3 years.  he afterward followed his trade at Dixon’s Mills two different times and also at Bridgeton for 10 years. He farmed at diff. periods.  Mrs. Rea, mother of James was a niece of Gen. STEELE.  The twain are now at rest.  Mr. Rea having died in 1868 in his 65th year and Mrs. Rea in 1865.  When 15 James worked for Gen. Steele at $4 per month, driving team, hauling saw logs, etc. and when 22 left home and engaged in farming for himself, first as a renter for 5 years, then bought 80 acres of Section16, Raccoon Township.  He sold this farm and bought 247 acres which constitutes his home farm.  He was married January 10, 1850 to Eliz. BENSON daughter of Nathaniel, one of Parke County’s first settlers.  She was born November 9, 1827 and died August 29, 1853 and is buried in Pleasant Valley Graveyard.  They were blessed with two children; Margaret L, born December 5 1851 and Sarah E, November 18, 1853.  Mr. Rea was again married to Minerva ADAMS, daughter of Cushing and Hannah (Handy) SNOW.  She was born November 11, 1827.  They had five children: Mary l. born June 27, 1858; Juliet March 7, 1860; Hannah, August 11, 1861; Ellen September 18, 1863diedSeptember 3, 1866; Hatty L, June 26, 1863.  Mr. and Mrs.. Rea are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.  He has spent his life thus far in hard work, having accumulated some wealth and has lost considerable in money loaned.  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 

William Rea, (note: father of Mary REA, wife of John C. GILKESON) father of the first clerk of Parke County, came, in company with James BOYD and James FANNIN, from Chillicothe, Ohio, and settled on the S.W. ¼ of Sec. 7, in Raccoon Township, and built a log cabin, which still stands there and is used for a dwelling house, and has always been since its erection. He was the first settler on Little Raccoon. In the fall of 1820, Thomas GILKESON, in company with James Buchanan, came to what is now Raccoon Township, and entered land. In the spring of 1821, Thomas GILKESON came to the S.W. ¼ of Section 5, built a cabin, cleared off a few acres of land and tended it in corn, and in the fall of that year brought his wife and five children from Kentucky, and settled in what was then a wilderness of wood and wild animals. (1880 History of Parke County, by J.H. Beadle Page. 227) shared by Amy Berga

REDDISH, John C. farmer and stock raiser, Waveland, was born in Kentucky in 1834, and is the son of Robert and Elizabeth (Connelly) Reddish, both of whom were natives of Kentucky, and immigrated to Parke County, Greene Township in 1844, and settled 3/4 of a mile west of Parkeville; they afterward moved to Howard Township and settled on the old Fleming-Johnson farm.  The subject of this sketch came to Parke Co. With his parent sin 1844, and in 1854 he was married to Mary J. Watson, daughter of Richard and Sarah (Burford) Watson, both natives of Shelby County, Kentucky.  Her parents died shortly after coming to Parke County; her father in 1837 aged 33 years and her mother in 1839, aged 30 years.  Mr. And  Mrs. J. C.  Reddish have 4 children: Clayborn W, husband of Eva C. Sutton; Lizzie B; Cora A. And Effie J.  They are members of the Missionary Baptist church at Goshen, Washington Township.  He lost two brothers in the late war.  During the war he was ready at any time to defend the laws and institutions of the country.  In politics he is a republican.  In practical business life he is a success. He owns a farm of 240 acres of as good land as Howard Township. Contains, and ha sit fairly stocked.  He formerly dealt in cattle principally.  He received no education outside of the common school. (1880 History of Parke County, Indiana J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers). 

REID, Perry L, wagon and carriage maker and blacksmith, Bellmore, son of James L. and Julia A (PAYTON) Reid, was born June 23, 1849 in Mason County, Kentucky the native place of both parents.  His paternal grandfather was in the war of 1812 and his father was Capt. of the Home Guards in Louisburg, Kansas during the Civil War.  Soon after the death of his father, which occurred when Perry was about 15, in company with his mother he came from Kentucky. to Parke Co.  He received some education in Kentucky. and Indiana  and early undertook to learn the blacksmith's trade, which he completed in the shop he now owns, after serving 3 years' apprenticeship.  He is now carrying on a good business.  He does good work and gives close attention to business.  He is a solid republican, a member of the cornet band, and as JD at the organization of the AF & AM and has since held all the offices in the Lodge except master.  hew as married to Clara BARNETT, February 17, 1869.  They have had 4 children: William H; Charles M; Eddie J, deceased and Freddie BORN  Besides his shop he owns a house and lot. 

J. W. REMINGTON, an enterprising business man of Garden City, Missouri is a native of Indiana.  He was born in Park (sic) County, Indiana in 1860 son of Elisha and Samantha Denman Remington, the latter a native of Parke County.  Elisha Remington was born near Coshocton, Ohio.  To Elisha and Samantha Denman Remington 8 children were born: Mrs. Ruth A. Gilkerson, Garden City, Missouri; Isaac, Park County; JW subject of this review; Mrs. Laura Crooks, Topeka, Kansas; Fred, Park County; and two babes died in infancy.  By a second marriage of Elisha Remington to Mary Cahill, two children were born: Mrs. Lydia Green and Benjamin Remington. Both live in Parke County.  J. W. Remington received his education in the common schools of Indiana but when a youth of 19 came to Cass County, Missouri in 1879.  Mr. Remington located in Camp Branch Township where he engaged in farming. In 1883 JW Remington and Rosa E. Crooks, daughter of Rev J. M. and Sarah Thompson Crooks were united in marriage. Rev. JM Crooke (sic) is one of the brave, old pioneers of Cass County.  He located 3 miles west of the present site of Garden City in Camp Branch Township and here Sarah Thompson Crooks was called away in 1884. Rev. Crooks resides in Topeka, Kansas.  Mr. and Mrs. Remington are the parents of 3 living children: C. C. resident of Garden City, Missouri and mail carrier on RR 2, succeeding his father; C. F. jeweler of Garden City Missouri and Geneva, wife of A. L.  Spry of Garden City. Until 1902, Mr. Remington continued his agricultural pursuits in Camp Branch.  At that time he was appointed mail carrier on RR 2, out of Garden City. Since 1910 he has been engaged in Garden City in the grain, feed and ice business. In 1911 Mr. Remington was elected assessor for Index Township, a position of trust which he was very ably filled for the past six years, his term expiring in March 1917. At the present writing Mr. Remington is also the tax collector for Garden City. Mr. and Ms. Remington have made their home in Garden City for 14 years. The present site of this city was but a short time ago fields of waving wheat. Mr. Remington has threshed wheat in those fields many times drank water form a well located upon the lot now owned by himself. He has a fund of interesting reminiscences of those days gone by. Dozens of trips he made hauling coal from Rich Hill, the trip requiring two days and a night. He recalls that one night the men had encamped on Deer Creek.  A sheet, thrown over the tongue of the wagon was their only cover. IN the early morning they were awakened by a feeling of bitter cold. 4" snow had fallen during the night. JW Remington is a man of courtly manners and splendid mental attainments. During their residence in the county he and Mrs. Remington have gained the respect and esteem of all, making countless friends. JW Remington has been true to every trust reposed in him.  Public-spirited and noble hearted he is s power for good in his community. - Page 527 - History of Cass County, Missouri.  Topeka: Historical Publishing Company, 1917

REYNOLDS, Joel , farmer, Bloomingdale, was born in Vigo County, Indiana  December 20, 1825.  His father, Mahlon Reynolds, came to that county as early as 1818, and settled in Prairie Creek Township, and in the winter of 1826 removed to Parke Co. and settled on the farm now owned by L. Smith.  Here Mr. Reynolds grew to be a man.  He worked on his father's farm and attended such schools as there were in those days, and received a good common school education.  His father was born in North Carolina in 1800, and died in this county in 1876, and his mother, Ruth RUBOTTOM, was also of North Carolina born in 1801 and died in this county 1866.  Mr. Reynolds has been twice married: first in 1847 to Mary A. MOON a native of North Carolina born October 6, 1827 and died 1874.  He was married again December6, 1878 to Mary J. KERSEY.  Mr. Reynolds owns a fine farm of 250 acres and has made the most of his property by hard work, and is always willing to lend a helping hand to all local enterprises, both religious and educational.  He has been a constant member of the Society of Friends during the many years spent in Parke Co.   Taken from: Page288 History of Parke County Indiana ; J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880  

REYNOLDS, Mahlon , was born in North Carolina in 1800 and came to Penn Township in 1826 from Vigo County, where he went in 1818.  He died on his farm in 1876.  His son, Joel, was born in Vigo County in 1825 and came to Penn Township. with his parents in 1826 and at his death owned a fine farm of 250 acres.  Both father and son were men of sterling worth, whose influence for good was pronounced.  Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke County Atlas of  Indiana  Centennial, 1816-1916, Page 121.  

RHORER, Garret J., teacher and farmer, Lena was born March 14, 1848 in Monroe County Indiana  and is the son of Christopher and Catharine (REED) Rhorer.  His father was born August 4, 1796 in Maryland and his mother was born December16, 1802 in Kentucky near Nicholasville; they now live a retired life in Bloomington Indiana ..  They are of German descent and members of the Christian Church.  The subj. of this sketch was raised on the farm, spending his winter months in the common school.  He finished his educational career at the State University, Bloomington Indiana .  When 19 he began teaching, which has been his constant occupation with the exception of one year.  he taught one term in Greene Co; and in 1869 came to Parke County and has taught thirteen terms in this county and one in Clay.  He has held a first grade certificate for over 6 years and is counted among the best teachers of the county.  Mr. Rhorer was married February 4, 1875 to Ida A. NAYLOR daughter of Dr. IEG and Calista (HUFFMAN) Naylor of Darlington Indiana  where she was born January 30, 1857.  Her father, Dr. Naylor was born October 9, 1816 in Lafayette Indiana  and her mother July 12, 1826 in NY.  Their ancestry were German.  Mr. and Mrs.. Rhorer have one child, Claude W, born November 14, 1876.  Mrs. Rhorer is a member of the Methodist Church.  Mr. Rhorer is a staunch republican.  They are both progressive and energetic, reading and thinking for themselves.  Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill 

RICE - Harrison J. RICE, M.D., who lives in an elegant home, surrounded by the comforts of life, is a resident of Rockville, Parke County. For the reason that he is now approaching his three-score years and ten, the Doctor is, in a manner, retired from active practice, and with his loving wife is now in the enjoyment of his well-earned rest.   The Doctor was born in Shelby County, Kentucky, August 25, 1823, and, as the name would seem to indicate, he is of German origin. More than one hundred years ago Daniel Rice, his paternal grandfather, settled in Washington County, Pennsylvania, then a part of Virginia. There in the wilderness, with the help of other kindred spirits, he erected Ft. Rice. Hardy and bold were the men who faced the trials and dangers of that day, and often were they called upon to do battle with their savage foes, which roamed the neighboring forests. In these fierce contests Daniel Rice was ever ready to take an active part, and by his bravery won considerable reputation. In this fort, about the year 1796, was born to him a son, Isaac, who afterward became the father of our subject. Amid these rugged surroundings, Isaac Rice grew up tall, deep chested and strong. He was a carpenter by trade, and became very proficient, so much so indeed that he could upon demand turn out with equal facility a house or mill, a bridge or boat, a cradle or a coffin. In early manhood he immigrated to Shelby County, Kentucky, where he married Miss Narcissa, daughter of James ALLEN, who came from Rockbridge County, Virginia.   In the year 1827, Daniel Rice came to Indiana, locating in Montgomery County, where he entered a piece of land one mile north of where Waveland now stands. At once he proceeded to the talk of making a home for his wife and little ones, and on that farm he spent his remaining days, and reared a family of nine children, many of whom have since won honors and distinction in the communities where they have resided. Six of these are still living: Harrison J., our subject; James M., a highly respected, honorable, Christian gentleman, who still lives on the old homestead near Waveland; Hon. Thomas N., of Rockville, whose sketch appears on another page of this work; Margaret, wife of Levi Sidwell, a retired merchant of Rockville; A. Alexander, one of Lafayette's prominent attorneys; and Dr. John T., who stands high in his profession at Attica, Indiana, and is surgeon of the Wabash and Illinois Central Railroads.   Politically, Isaac rice was a Whig and a life long follower of Henry Clay. For many years prior to his death, which occurred January 11, 1852, he was a member of the Presbyterian Church. As a citizen and neighbor, he stood well in the community, but it was particularly in the home that his best qualities were seen. It was his greatest pleasure to use his utmost efforts in directing the moral and intellectual training of his children, and though he was not permitted to see the fruits of his labors to any great extent, the good he has done lives after him.   The boyhood days of Dr. Harrison J. Rice were similar to those of other farmer lads of his time. During most of the year, he worked hard upon the farm, and attended a short term of school in the winter. He had a receptive mind, however, and made the most of the scanty educational advantages afforded by the r\primitive log schoolhouse. Later, he entered Wabash College, at Crawfordsville, Indiana, where he remained for two years, and there gained a fair knowledge of Latin, Greek and the higher mathematics. About the year 1845, Mr. Rice determined to adopt the medical profession, and accordingly came to Rockville, entering the office of his uncle, Dr. James L. Allen, as a student. Dr. Allen was a man of great skill and reputation in his profession, and performed amputations and many operations requiring great skill long before the discovery of anesthetics. In the office of this eminent physician, the Doctor laid the foundation of that professional and business knowledge which was to serve him so well in after life. He took his first course of lectures at Louisville, Kentucky, one of his teachers being Samuel D. Gross, the "Nestor of American Surgery." Later Dr. Rice attended Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, graduating form that institution in 1849.   In October of the last mentioned year, the Doctor married Miss Nancy MOXLEY, of Shelbyville, Kentucky, who was born in Bourbon County. Her father, George Moxley, who came from near Mt. Vernon, Virginia, was one of the wealthy farmers and stock-growers of Shelby County, Kentucky. Mrs. Rice, a lady of slight physique and domestic in her tastes, has been of untold service to her husband, as she is endowed with an accurate memory, good judgment and great practical sense, which have made her a fitting helpmate, and it is but proper and fair to say that much of the prosperity and happiness of their union, which has now lasted more than forty-three years, has been due to the faithful and loving service which she has given to her husband and children.   To. Mr. and Mrs. Rice were born four children, viz.: Victoria, wife of Jeremiah BROWN, a printer at Rockville; Henry Haller, a farmer near this village; Catherine, wife of Capt. Frank STEVENSON, now a prominent dry-goods merchant of Rockville, and lately the distinguished chief officer of the Rockville Light Artillery, a company which under his drilling won the first prize in competition with the crack companies of the United States; and Leta, the youngest daughter, who died in 1887 at the age of nineteen. Besides the above named, Mr. and Mrs. Rice have reared and adopted the child of the former's sister, who is deceased. Miss Rena is a young lady of rare literary attainments, and possesses many useful accomplishments.  Immediately after his marriage, Dr. Rice formed a partnership with his late preceptor, Dr. Allen, and upon the death of the latter in 1857 the former succeeded to the business. He rapidly rose in the esteem of the people, as from the first he possessed in an eminent degree the faculty of inspiring his patients with confidence in his skill. For a period of over a quarter of a century, he maintained a position of greater influence in the profession than any other physician who has lived in Parke County. He was called to al parts of this and surrounding counties, these distant trips frequently taxing his powers of endurance. Form 1860 to 1870, prices were remunerative, and one fee of $1,450, which he received, was the largest sum ever paid to a physician of this locality for services rendered in a single case. During his career he had more than twenty students, many of whom have honored him by rising to places of distinction.  For many years the Doctor was Master of the Masonic Lodge of Rockville, and was High Priest of the chapter. He is also a Knight Templar and recipient of the Thirty-third Degree, Scottish Rite. Upon the occasion of laying the cornerstone of the new courthouse, September 11, 1879, he delivered an eloquent address. He is a member of and faithful attendant at the Presbyterian Church, to which, as well as to other churches, he is a liberal contributor. For many years past he has been noted as a fine marksman and an enthusiastic sportsman, and one of his favorite companions has been Judge John W. Jones, of Bowling Green, Kentucky. The Doctor's home is always open for the entertainment of his many friends, whom he delights to welcome.  - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana - 1893 Chapman Brothers

Dr. Harrison J. RICE, a prominent man in Parke County for nearly 50 years was born in Shelby County, Kentucky August 25, 1823.  After attending Wabash College for two years, he came to Rockville to study medicine in the office of Dr. James L. ALLEN.  He supplemented these studies with a course of lectures in Louisville, Kentucky and in Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia from which institution he graduated in 1849.  In October of that year he completed his medical education, Dr. Rice was married to Miss Nancy MOXLEY, of Shelbyville, Kentucky a daughter of Hon . George Moxley who was prominent in the affairs of Kentucky.  They at once came to Rockville where they resided until their death.  Dr. Rice practiced as the partner of Dr. Allen until the death of Allen in 1857. He rapidly rose in his profession.  For more than 25 years he maintained a greater influence in it than any other physician of Western Indiana.  He was called to all the surrounding counties on distant trips that taxed the endurance of even a man of perfect physical manhood.  From 1800 to 1870 prices were remunerative and one fee of $1,450 was paid him in a single case.  During Dr. Rice's practice he had an office in his door yard and in this office more than 20 students at different times were under his instruction.  Dr. Rice was a charter member of the Parke County Medical Society, a member of the State Medical Society and of the Esculapian Society of the Wabash Valley.  He was as remarkably successful as he was in his profession.  He was long one of the leading Democrats of the state of Indiana, associated with Wright, Hendricks, Vorhees and McDonald. In 1874 he was the Democratic candidate for Congress but the district was heavily Republican and he was defeated, although he made a splendid canvass. He was a pleasing and effective speaker.  His address on the occasion of the laying of the cornerstone of the Parke County Court House September 14, 1879 was a masterpiece in diction and delivery.  He was a member of the Presbyterian Church to which, as well as to other churches, he was a liberal contributor.  For 10 years he was master of Parke Lodge No. 8 F & AM and High Priest of Parke Chapter.  He was a Knight Templar and long stood at the head of the Masonic Fraternity in this county.  Dr. Rice was an enthusiastic sportsman, a gentlemanly, companionable man with whom it was a pleasure to go to the field or to talk over the episodes of hunting or fishing.  He was courtly in his bearing, with the dignity and ease of manner that characterized the real gentlemen of his generation.  He was strikingly handsome -- a man who would attract attention among the most distinguished of the men of his time. - Parke County Indiana Centennial Memorial 1816-1916, Page 54

RICE, Thomas N --   Coming down to the present time there are now in Rockville, David H. Maxwell, the oldest practicing attorney in the place, who came from Bloomington, Indiana in 1845 and Hon. Thomas N. RICE, who entered the work of the profession in 1853...though these have not quite "come down from a former generation," still they are the connecting links between the earlier and the later periods in the history of the bar. 

RICE, Thomas N., a leading attorney of Parke County, residing at Rockville, was born near Waveland, in Montgomery County, Indiana June 7, 1829.  He spent his minority on his father's farm and during that time obtained an academic education at Waveland.  In 1851 he came to Parke County, and after 9 months spent in school teaching became a student in the law office of DH & Judge Samuel F. MAXWELL.  Continuing his studies with these gentlemen until the fall of 1853 he entered the Louisville University, and graduated in the law course in the following March.  He immediately began practice in Rockville with Judge Elias S. TERRY, now of Danville, Illinois.  In 1856 he was elected prosecuting attorney of the common pleas court, the counties of Parke & Vermillion composing the district.  In 1858 he was elected prosecutor for the 8th judicial circuit, which embraced the following counties: Boone, Clinton, Montgomery, Fountain, Warren, Parke & Vermilion.  Mr. Rice lent an active and vigorous support to the war for the union, and assisted in recruiting every company raised in Parke Co.  He traveled and addressed war meetings, rendering valuable service to the cause in encouraging and strengthening the loyal sentiment.  In 1864 Mr. Rice became a member of the Indiana house of rep. And in 1866 also of the state senate, serving in the latter body four years.  During the whole of his service in the legislature he was on the judiciary committee, and in the senate  serving in the latter body four years.  During the whole of his service in the legislature he was on the judiciary committee, and in the senate was chairman of the committee on corporations.  He took a prominent part in shaping the educational legislation which is now in force.  The people of Parke County. Are indebted to Mr. Rice for the present admirable system of gravel roads.  In 1865 or 66 he graded 1/2 a mile of road on Howard Ave, in Rockville, the first of the kind ever made in t he county.  This resulting with that success which Mr. Rice had clearly foreseen and confidently predicted, the enterprise has gradually been carried forward until there are now in Adams Township. Alone not less than 30 miles of free turnpike.  Mr. Rice is reckoned among the foremost in active endeavors to advance the moral, social, material and intellectual interests not only of the immediate community in which he lives but of the whole county.  During the past 6 years he has been an efficient member of the Rockville School board.  In 1869 he made a business trip of 3 months through Ireland and Scotland.  In 1878 he ran for circuit judge in opposition to the present incumbent of the office, William P. BRITTON, but was defeated.  Mr. Rice was married November 7, 1855 to miss Margaret DIGBY.  They have had 4 children, two of whom are living.  The eldest, recently married, is the wife of Shannon NAVE of Attica.  Mr. Rice is a Christian gentleman and a republican of progressive ideas.  Both he and his wife are communicant sin the Presbyterian Church.   

RICH, Allan L., farmer, Waterman, is one of the old settlers in this township, having come to this locality in 1846 from Randolph County North Carolina where he was born in 1820.  His parents, Aaron and Lurina (LAMB) Rich, were born in that state and lived and died there.  Mr. Rich has been a farmer all his life, and has a well appointed farm of 99 acres, the result of his own industry and hard work.  Mr. Rich has been twice married: the first time to Miss Annie SWAIM, daughter of Daniel Swaim in 1844 one of the early settlers in this county; and the second time to Mrs. DOWDELL, a widow, daughter of David SHIRK, the second settler on Coal Creek.  She died January 13, 1880, aged 65 years and had been a member of the Baptist Church of 35 years.  Mr. Rich had a family of three children: William Daniel, Lurena Susan, now married to Mr. James CHAT and James.  He has been a member of the Baptist church for the last 25 years and belongs to the Democratic party.   Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill 

RICHMOND, R.J., farmer, Waterman, is one of the oldest settlers now living in this township, having come here with his parents, John and Mary (GARNER) Richmond, when he was four years old.  He was born in Butler County, Ohio  in 1820.  There were a few Indians in this neighborhood on his arrival and their bark wigwams were numerous all over this part of the county.  In 1848 he married Miss Mary MILLER and they have a family of 6 children: Mary Ellen, Henry Lawson, Sarah Elizabeth, Return, William and Samuel J.  Since his marriage he has engaged in farming and previous to that he had followed flat boating from his 13th year, making numerous trips to New Orleans.  He is a member of the democratic party.  Dr. T. B. REDMAN is married to Mr. Richmond's eldest daughter, Mary Ellen, and they have one child, Idelle.  Mr. Redman came to Liberty Township. in 1871 from Georgetown, Vermilion County.  The doctor was born in Washington County, this state, November 1, 1846, and received his early education at Georgetown Seminary and later at the State Normal School in Illinois, and is a graduate of the Medical College of Indiana, at Indianapolis.  He has been  in practice ten years and is meeting with great success.  Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill 

ROACH, Addison L., son of Dr. Roach, started up in practice with the late Judge Samuel F. MAXWELL, both of whom studied law in the office of Gen. Howard about 1840 and then formed a partnership.  Roach is now one of the supreme judges of Indiana, and resides at Indianapolis.  Thomas H. NELSON, ex-minister to Chili and Mexico came from Kentucky. About the same date.  James M. ALLEN, brother to Dr Allen, and Judge John G. CRAIN began practice of the law here about 1845.  They commenced poor boys, and rose to wealth and eminence.  They were in partnership several. Years.  Allen moved to Lawrenceburg near the beginning of the war; Crain as appointed collector of internal revenue by Lincoln and went to Terre Haute to reside.  He died lately.  Samuel MAGILL of Terre Haute, settled in Rockville about 1848 and was clerk of the court 8 years.  Before this he had been a clerk in the post office department at Washington.  Judge Elias S. TERRY of Danville, Illinois acquired some distinction here as a lawyer 25 or 30 years ago.  About the same date John M. McLaughlin was here and practiced 2 or three years. 

ROACH, John W. and Elizabeth, settled in Sugar Creek township in 1834, and located on a farm in the north part of the township.  Mr. Roach was a native of Kentucky and his wife whose name was Morgan, was a  native of Virginia.  They were the parents of William M. Roach and Henry L. Roach who was born in Bath County, Kentucky. in 1817.  Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke County Atlas of  Indiana  Centennial, 1816-1916, Page 115]  

ROACH, William M. farmer, Wallace, Fountain County, is the 9th son of John W. and Elizabeth (Morgan) Roach, who came to Sugar Creek township in the fall of 1834, locating in the north end of the township.  His father was a native of Kentucky; his mother of Virginia; both coming here from Franklin County, Indiana  where they had settled on first coming to the state.  He was born in Decatur County, Indiana  April 12, 1830; being only 4 years old when his parents came to Parke Co.  He received his education at the common school, and has, during life, engaged in agricultural pursuits.  in 1847, he went to boating on the Ohio  river, continuing at that for 3 years and in 1853, went with a drove of cattle to NY, being seven weeks on the road.  in 1857, he married Miss Isabelle Ward, daughter of Samuel Ward, one of the oldest settlers on Brush Creek.  She died in 1863, leaving one son, John.  His brother, Henry l. Roach, was born in Bath County, Kentucky in 1817 and has been engaged at farming all his life, marrying January 14, 1836, Miss Frances Allen, daughter of Thomas Allen, the first settler in the north part of the township.  His first wife having died, he married in the spring of 1857, Miss Mary Ann Black, daughter of Judge Black, the second probate judge of Fountain Co.  He has a family of 15 children, 6 boys & four girls by his first wife, and two boys & 3 girls by his present wife.  When he came to Indiana he had not a good suit of clothes and now has 192 acres of good land, well improved and in a high state of cultivation, the result of his own industry, energy and perseverance.  He is a member of Wallace Lodge AF & AM and in politics is a member of the national party.   Taken from: 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana by J. H.  Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers.   

Elzey ROBBINS is an example of the self-made man who, having commenced on the lowest rounds of the ladder leading to success, has steadily, year by year, risen in the scale, until he is now justly numbered among the extensive and leading agriculturists of Parke County.  He was once the fortunate possessor of 400 acres of desirable land, which he has given to his children, his home being situated on Section 22, Sugar Creek Township.  Soon after his marriage in 1845, he was obliged to begin in a rented farm, hauling all his earthly effects to it on a one-horse sleigh.  For over 30 years Mr. Robbins and his estimable wife, who has truly been a helpmate to him, have been members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.  The paternal grandparents of our subject were James and Elizabeth Yont Robbins the former a native of Germany.  After his marriage he came to the United States, following agricultural pursuits in Randolph County, North Carolina.  He had four children: Eli, Enoch, Hayman and Molly, wife of Eli Newland, of Illinois.  When our subject's father was only a boy he was deprived by death of his father, after which event his mother became the wife of Mr. Curtis and had two sons, Emsley and Ennis, the latter of whom went to Illinois.  When Eli Robbins was only 11 he was bound-out to John Reddish and lived with him 10 years, or until reaching majority.  He learned the tanner's trade, which calling he never followed afterward.  When 25 he married the daughter of Nathan and Sarah Sumner Hoggett, who were old style Quakers.  Our subject is one of 11 children he being the second son.  In order of birth, the others are: Linley deceased; James, deceased; Hoggett; William and Enoch, deceased; Newland; Sarah; Elizabeth and Mary, deceased and Abigail.  When our subject's father started out to make his way in the world he began by working for farmers by the month or year.  At length he became the owner of a good farm and property but, by going security for a man, lost everything.  After that misfortune he removed with his family to east Tennessee where he lived several years and then going to the Prairie State soon after departed this life.  He was a Jacksonian Democrat.  Until reaching his majority Elzey Robbins remained at home with his parents and then commenced working as a farm hand.  About 1838 he came to Parke County working for several years at whatever he could find to do to earn an honest living.  He split rails for 50 cents per hundred in that particular resembling our country's great President, Abraham Lincoln.  He also worked as a blacksmith for $8 per month.  In 1845 he married Nancy Carter, who was a daughter of John and Hannah Holiday Carter.  7 sons have blessed their union, all bright, intelligent young men, who having been given good educations, are now taking a leading part in the actual business of life. They are: John E; James G; Joshua M; William P; Solomon F; Andrew A. and one who died in infancy.  Like their father they are all defenders of the Republican Party and principles, and are patriotic citizens. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago:  Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 549

Milton B. ROBINS - Anyone who travels over Shelby County will meet many of the older citizens who initials are "M. R."  Inquiry will elicit the fact that they are named after one of the old time physicians who in his day was one of the most widely known practitioners of the county. Doctor Milton B. Robins rode many a mile and answered the calls from thousands of bedsides.  He was a kindly man, always responsive to the demands for help that came up in hundreds of ways, lived an upright life and exercised a large influence in the community.  Milton B. Robins, his youngest son was born at Shelbyville, Indiana, March 4, 1846, and received his education in the city public schools supplemented by a term at the old Asbury University in Greencastle.  During the Civil War he enlisted for 100 day service in Company E, Indiana Volunteer Infantry.  His entrance into business was as a druggist on the public square but later he became a member of the firm of Robins & Powell which long conducted a book, stationery and notion store on the north side, which grew to be one of the city's best known rallying points; also in the book and job publishing business on Franklin Street, and he continued in this line for many years.  Ten years previous to his death he disposed of his business and took a position as manager and secretary of the Hodell Furniture Company and was in this position at the time of death, August 12, 1899.  June 26, 1878 Mr. Robins married Hattie E. Naylor, one of the popular teachers in the city's schools and a lady of many accomplishments. She was born at Montezuma, Parke County, Indiana December 17, 1856, her parents being John and Mariah Chew Naylor.  Her father was in Clark County, Indiana as early as 1829 followed the trade of carpenter and is still living at Montezuma.  Besides Mrs. Robins there were 3 children: Luella, the eldest married Dennis Tuttle, deceased resides at Montezuma has two children, Zula and Frank.  Elizabeth E married Morris Terry, a contractor and resident of Long Beach, California.  James A, the only son, married Kate Ford, has 6 children and is a contractor and miller at Montezuma.  Mr. and Mrs. Robins became the parents of 4 children: George N. married Elsa Amos and is city treasurer of Shelbyville.  Gertrude married Harry E. Karmire who is with his father in the manufacturing business and chief Elk officer of the city.  Harry M is now at Newark, New Jersey with the Westinghouse Electrical Lamp firm.  Frances, the youngest is in high school.  Mrs. Robins obtained her education in the public schools of Parke County and was graduated 1876 at the Indian State Normal, Terre Haute. Later she obtained a position as teacher in Shelbyville public schools and retained it for two years, her marriage interrupting her plans for teaching. Mrs. Robins has a taste for school and club work and for years has been conspicuous in these lines.  The Methodist Episcopal Church has no more active worker in the mission department or other branches of religious endeavor. The Woman's Club, also the Wihub Circle for married men and their wives has also received considerable attention and she is generally found present at its meetings. The woman's club, established 20 years ago has found in Mrs. Robins an active sympathetic supporter. Mrs. Robins is a charter member of the woman's Club and Mr. and Mrs. Robins are charter members of the Wihub Circle. - Chadwick, Edward H.  History of Shelby County, Indiana.  Indianapolis, Ind.: B.F. Bowen & Company, 1909, Page 516

Milton ROBISON.  For 20 years this gentleman carried on an extensive and lucrative practice in the courts of Indiana, in addition to which he had charge of numerous cases which called him to other states. When, after having gained an enviable reputation as a skilled and learned attorney, he retired from the profession, he chose an occupation for which he had always had a predilection - that of agriculture. In November 8163, he located in Howard Township Parke County where he has since resided.  His farm included 124 acres and in addition to this he is the owner of 57 of the old homestead. His residence, which was erected in 1868, is a substantial frame structure and was built at an expense of $2,500.  The father of our subject, Thomas B. Robison was born in Miami County, Ohio and was of Scotch-Irish descent. He grew to manhood on his father's farm, and in his native county married Margaret OSWALT who was born in Warren County Ohio May 7, 1807.  Her mother died when she was one, and the death of her father 10 years later left her an orphan in childhood.  She was married to Thomas B. Robison Feb 18, 1830. The year prior to their marriage, Mr. Robison came to Indiana and entered 160 acres, upon which he built a double log cabin.  With his young wife he came to Indiana on horseback, where they endured all the hardships incident to life in a frontier settlement.  In their religious faith, the parents of our subject were members of the Presbyterian Church at Dick's Creek, Ohio which they joined din 1828.  On coming to Indiana, there was no church of their denomination in the community and services for some time were held at their home.  The Rev. Mr. McNutt was their minister and they were present when a meeting was held to arrange for the organization of the first Presbyterian Church at Bethany of which there were 18 charter members.  They were the parents of 7 children, one daughter and six sons, 3 of whom died in infancy. William was killed during the early part of the Civil War.  Jane P. (***)died in Edgar County, Illinois Aug 18, 1884. Two sons, Milton and Daniel are now the only surviving members of the family. The mother died at her residence in Howard Township Parke County, Indiana April 14, 1889.  For some time prior to her demise she had realized that the end was near and was reconciled to death.  Even while undergoing great suffering she often uttered beautiful prayers on behalf of her friends for their salvation.  One of her last expressions was "My soul is at rest, but my body suffers pain all the time."  She left two sons, 24 grandchildren and 16 greats.  Upon the land which he entered from the government, Thomas B. Robison remained until his death, September 6, 1865.  He farmed on an extensive scale and was the owner of about 500 acres of land, the most of which was cleared by his individual efforts, aided by his sons.  As one of the earliest settlers in the he county, he was widely known and enjoyed the esteem of a large circle of personal friends.  In his early days he was a Whig in his political opinions and upon the organization of the Republican Party enlisted in its ranks.  During the late war he was a devoted adherent of the Union cause and a strong Abolitionist. Our subject recalls the time when deer and bears were plentiful, as well as large rattlesnakes, which have since become extinct.  During those early days, he aided in the work of clearing the farm and was the recipient of such educational advantages as the neighborhood afforded.  He resided at home until April 17, 1854 when he married Achsa, daughter of Nathan and Sarah S. HOCKETT NEWLIN, natives of North Carolina, who came to Parke County in early life.  The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Robison was Nathan Hockett, a native of NC who removed to Indiana and located in Washington Township Parke County becoming one of the earliest settlers of this part of the state.  Mrs. Sarah S. Newlin was born in Guilford Co, NC was 16 when she came to Indiana and died at the age of 72 years 2 months 10 days.  Mrs. Robison was one of 9 children, 7 of whom are now living.  After his marriage, our subject located on Section 16, Howard Township where his father gave him 80 acres of partially improved land.  He finished clearing the place and made it his home for about 4 years, when he returned to the old homestead. For 8 years he managed the place in partnership with his father and, as above stated, located on his present farm in Nov 1863. At the time of his settlement here, the improvements were few but through his industry and enterprise he has succeeded in clearing over 40 acres and has embellished the farm with 1st class buildings, adapted to their varied uses. In connection with general farming, he is engaged as a stock raiser and has on his place a good grade of cattle. The only child of Mr. and Mrs. Robison was taken from hem in infancy.  In his political opinions, our subject is a Republican and has voted the straight party ticket since 1856.  He cast his first vote for Gen. Scott in 1852, and has voted at every succeeding Presidential election.  In his early manhood, he commenced the study of law and was admitted to practice at the Bar May 24, 1877.  He conducted an extensive legal practice and was also prominent in an official capacity. For 4 years he served as Township Assessor and has filled other positions of trust and honor.  In all measures calculated to enhance the prosperity of the county he is deeply interested.  He assisted in getting up the petition for the building of the Marshall and narrows of Sugar Creek gravel road and is greatly interested in gravel roads for which Parke County is famous. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 206

HENRY C. ROGERS, M. D., is well known as one of the leading physicians and surgeons in the city of Rockville. He was born in Brown Township, Montgomery County, Indiana., August 16,1844. His father, Dr. Henry Rogers, was of English descent and was reared in Culpeper County, Virginia. He studied medicine with a Dr. Karter, of Kentucky, and practiced in that state until he came to Franklin Township, two miles west of Parksburg in Putnam County, Ind., when he removed to Clinton County, Mo., and practiced several years. Here he was married, but his wife lived only a short time and he married again, Miss Jane Kirkpatrick becoming his wife. After his marriage Mr. Rogers settled on a farm midway between the towns of Parkersburg and Russellville, where he lived until 1843, when he entered more land, on which he lived about twenty-four years. In 1867 he sold out and bought in Clark Township, Montgomery County, where he remained until his death, which occurred in the fall of 1874.  Mrs. Jane Rogers, the mother of our subject, was a native of Kentucky and was supposed to be of Irish ancestry. By her marriage she became the mother of two children, Henry C. and James. She passed away about the year 1878. Mr. Rogers was in Dudley's defeat, on the River Thames, in the war of 1812 fighting with the Kentucky troops. He practiced medicine all his life and was considered one of the best physicians of his day. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, his wife belonging to the order of Rebeccas. Politically he was a Republican, having been a Whig in the early days of independence. He was a noble Christian man and served the Christian Church of his township, acting in the capacity of Elder, which office he filled until his death. His companion was a member of the Presbyterian Church and discharged her duties faithfully.  Dr. Henry C. Rogers was reared on the old home place, where he lived until coming to Clark Township with his parents. On the 20th of March, 1866, he was united in marriage with the lady of his choice, Mrs. Cintilda Wilson, a daughter of James B. and Susannah Wilson, of Putnam County, Ind. James Wilson was a prosperous farmer and stock-raiser of that county, and very creditably filled his position as Justice of the Peace of that place for many years. His wife was born and reared in Putnam County, receiving a common-school education. Mr. Wilson was born the 25th of December, 1847, and died September 30, 1884.  After his marriage Dr. Rogers followed farming for several years, but his mind naturally tended toward his father's profession, and as he had early begun reading his father's medical books and had studied under him, he decided to follow the practice of medicine. By identifying himself with various medical societies and by careful reading he keeps well abreast of the times. He is devoted to his profession and his patients feel that safety and confidence under his care that a true physician ever inspires. He attended the Russellville (Ind.) College, and after completing his literary studies he entered the Indiana Medical College at Indianapolis, where he moved with his family. He graduated there February 25, 1876, after which he practiced at Barnard, in Jackson Township, Putnam County, in close proximity to his old home. While here he practiced in the counties of Putnam and Montgomery until the fall of 1880, when he was induced to move to Rockville.  Since coming here Dr. Rogers has built up a lucrative practice, owns a piece of good town property, and one hundred and sixty acres of fine farming land in Adams Township, within two miles of the city. Mr. and Mrs. Rogers have four children. They are James H., who is intending to be a jeweler; Annie, who is at home and a milliner; Eddie W., who is looking after the farm interests, and Frank E., who is now attending school in Rockville. Politically our subject casts his ballot for the Republican candidates. He was Postmaster at Barnard, Ind., for several years.  During the struggle between the North and the South Dr. Rogers offered his services to his country, and enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty - fifth Regiment, Company D, Division Indiana Volunteer Infantry, under the command of W. C. Wilson. He is a member of the Indiana Medical Society. While in college he made the diseases of women and children and obstetrics a specialty, and in his entire twenty years' practice he has been very successful and proficient.  Dr. Rogers' office is situated on the southeast corner of the square; his residence is on North Jefferson street After he graduated at the Indiana Medical College he united with the College of Physicians and Surgeons, and founded the Medical College of Indiana, at which he was in attendance, taking the Eundum Degree and thereafter the degree of Doctor of Medicine. Dr. Rogers is a busy man, efficient in his calling, a good manager, and bears a good reputation.  -  Portrait and Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Pages 439 – 440, shared by Karen Zach

 George W. ROHM, an active and enterprising young man, is one of the owners of one of the finest mills in Jackson Twp, Parke Co.  This mill is situated on the big Raccoon and was built in the year 1821 and rebuilt in the year 1881 by his father. It has a capacity of 50 barrels per day is splendidly fitted out with a modern roller system and the flour produced is of the finest and best brands.  Mr. Rohm is an energetic business man, is prosperous in the pursuit of his calling as a miller and well liked by all who know him.  He receives all his mail at Mansfield.  Mr. Rohm was born in New Bedford County, Penn June 30, 1864 and is the son of Jacob Rohm, who was also a miller by occupation.  He commenced in this business when 12 years old and continued until 1864, when he left for DeWitt County, Ill.  Here he had an interest in 3 mills, one of which he built himself in that county and in the year, 1871 disposed of it and removed to Wright County, Iowa.  In this last named county he purchased a farm, but thinking his former trade more preferable, he sold out and built a mill at Clarion with the expectation of a railroad passing through the town. But this plan failed and he finally went to Hamilton Co in the same state, where he rented a mill for a period of two years.  At the expiration of this time, in 1875, he bought the Mansfield mill in this county which he operated until 1881.  Jacob Rohm then built the present mill which was completely remodeled in 1886.  At this time he sold to each of his sons, our subject and EH Calvin Rohm, a 1/2 interest.  In 1893 he retired form the partnership which is now known as Rohm Brothers, the two sons being equal partners.  Rohm Bros. are now erected a mill in Rockville, which they intend, when completed to be one of the finest and best mills in the state. The father makes his home near Fincastle and is a local minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church.  The mother of our subject bore the name of Mary A. Hixon and is a native of PA in which state she was carefully reared and educated.  She is the mother of 5 children, two daughters and 3 sons, whose names are: E. H. Calvin, a resident of Mansfield; Marella, wife of CF Pruett; Lizzie, wife of A. E. Cole, Putnam County; George W, our subject and Jacob J. who was killed by the cars in August, 1892.  George W. Rohm was 10 when he came to Parke County with his parents.  He attended the commercial schools at Terre Haute, later supplementing his study there by a course at Normal and also at Danville, taught 4 successive terms up to 1886.  He then entered into partnership with his father and brother, as above stated, but early in 1892 took sole charge of the business forming the present partnership with his brother in April 1893.  The business is successful, the mill having a large local trade. T heir square dealing and genial manners have won for them hosts of friends, both in business and social circles.  As a companion on life's journey, the gentleman whose name heads this sketch chose Miss Alice J. VanZant, daughter of H. W. and Mary VanZant.  This estimable lady was born in Parke Co and received a good education in her native place.  By this union Mr. Rohm and his wife have become the proud parents of 3 children, whom they named Guy, Arthur and Cora - all still under the parental roof. Our subject, socially, is a member of the Bridgeton Lodge, Number. 169 of Free & Accepted Masons.  - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 547

ROHM, Jacob, miller, Mansfield, was born January 10, 1835 in Bedford County PA and is the son of Jacob and Mary.  Mr. Rohm's father was born July 5, 1793, and died September 12, 1862.  He was Capt.. of the state militia; a Whig, then republican and was a millwright by trade.  Mr. Rohm began working in the mill when he was 14 years old, and has spent nearly all his life in the milling business.  He was married September 27, 1857 to Mary A. HIXSON daughter of Ephraim & Osee (BARTON) Hixson.  She was born January 21, 1839 and is a member of the Methodist church.  They have had 5 children: Osee M, born August 13, 1858; Ephraim H., born January 7, 1860; Elizabeth V., born June 9, 1861; George W., born June 30, 1864; Jacob J., born  October 13, 1872.  Mr. Rohm left Pa in 1864 and settled in Clinton, IL.  He lived there 7 years and then went to Webster City, Hamilton County, Iowa. He lived there 3 and a half years and then came to Mansfield in March 1875.  he began here with very little capital. He is now worth about $12,000.  He has done a strictly cash business and has only lost $2 since he has been here.   In 1855, he made a trip to California and stayed one year and a half.  he has been a Mason 15 years and held office in that order.  Mr. Rohm is a democrat and an honest, intelligent, honorable gentleman - unknown source

ROSS, George W -- among the extensive landholders of Parke Co., George W. Ross, farmer and stock raiser, Catlin is prominent.  He was a poor boy and by untiring energy, perseverance and keen business perception has amassed his fortune.  He was born June 28, 1812, in Stafford County Virginia being the son of John and Mary (ENSOR) Ross, both born in "old Virginia."  His parents went to Kentucky when George was 6 years old, and when he was 21 they moved to Parke County, settling in Washington Township, where they bought 40 acres and entered 120 acres of land.  Here they lived from 1835, the time of their advent, till they died at ripe old ages.  They brought 7 children: George W, Emily A deceased; Thomas E; Stephen E; James T; Elizabeth and David W, all living in Parke County except Davis who is in Illinois.  The father of this family fought in the War of 1812the year in which the boy George was born  The Rosses were of Scotch-Irish descent, and have been in Virginia for some generations back.  George had a peculiar love for stock, and early engaged in that business.  He has made several trips into Kentucky. and the South, driving stock and buying mules.  Besides his dealing he has gained some prominence as a veterinary surgeon.  He sent two sons, John and Henry to the War of 1861-5.  Mr. Ross has been Lt. in the home militia, and for a long time was constable and did much business for the sheriff, acting as deputy.  He has added to his possessions till now he owns 1,233 acres of land.  He was married November 2, 1837 to Martha D. LEWIS, daughter of William and Polly (CLARK) Lewis, both old settlers who came from Tennessee. and entered land mostly in Greene Township.  Mr. and Mrs.. Ross have had 9 children: John E. born September 11, 1838; Adelia H. W. born January 1, 1841; Henry Clay born October 30, 1843; William W. born February 5, 1847; Winifield Taylor born April 1, 1849; Mary E. born March 16, 1853; George Washington July 14, 1855; Abraham Lincoln September 26, 1861; and Martha Ann Morton born March 4, 1864.  Mr. Ross is a staunch 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 

George W. ROSS, a resident of Washington Township, Parke County has been since his early manhood prominently connected with the history of this region and at one time was the owner of about 1500 acres of land.  For many years he was actively engaged in agricultural pursuits and traded in livestock to some extent.  He was born in Stafford County, Virginia June 28, 1812 and was reared in Mason County, Kentucky.  He was a son of John and Mary ENSOR Ross, the former of whom was also a native of Stafford County, Virginia where he was reared to manhood and married.  About 6 years after that event, he emigrated to Mason County, Kentucky arriving there in 1818, where he became the owner of a farm and reared his family of 7 children, of whom our subject is the eldest.  Thomas, Stephen and Elizabeth are all resident of this county living on the old homestead.  David lives in Illinois and Tolliver and Emily are deceased.  The father came to Parke Co in 1835, enter 160 acres of land near the present home of our subject.  There he lived, devoting himself to the improvement of the place, until his death.  He was the owner of 220 acres at the time of his demise and was a Democrat in political faith.  When about 16 George W. Ross left home and served an apprenticeship of 3 years at cabinetmaking.  He then engaged extensively in carpentering carrying on a shop in Kentucky for several years.  After removing to Indiana, he followed various pursuits, in which he met with more or less success but devoted himself mainly to farming and, as previously stated, was the owner at one time of 1500 acres.  His business career has been such that he truly deserved success; at his dealings with his fellow men were always witnesses to his honor and integrity.  Through his qualities of untiring energy, strict attention to business and perseverance in "whatever line of work he undertook" he acquired a competence amply sufficient for his declining years and at the same time won the high regard and respect of all. On the 3rd of November 1837, when Mr. Ross was but little past his majority he wedded Martha LEWIS, daughter of William and Mary Lewis. To them were born 9 children: Adelia, wife of Henry CLARK of Kansas; Henry; Walter; Mary, Mrs. James STOWEY; George W, Jr., Lincoln; Winfield and Martha A, deceased. These children have all been given good school privileges thus fitting them for the battle of life. Mr. Ross cast his first ballot for Andrew Jackson and has since that time been a firm Republican. No man in this community is more respected or more worthy of the confidence and good will of all than is our subject, whose life has been above reproach and one well worthy of emulation. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page. 289

RUKES, Harrison J., farmer, Rosedale, was born in Florida Township Parke County May 6, 1838 and is the son of Zerubabel and Nancy Rukes.  Mr. Ruke's father was born in Maryland in 1798; lived there till he was 16, then went to Bourbon County Kentucky and settled in Parke County 1824.  He traveled a good deal over the US; was a Methodist class leader many years; a Whig, then republican; a man of great memory; a quiet, even-tempered man, respected by all who knew him and died February 28, 1859.  Mr. Ruke's mother was born in Maryland November27, 1801; was a member of the Methodist church and died, with the Christian's hope, November8, 1863.  The subject of this sketch, Harrison Rukes, passed his boyhood days on the farm, and obtained his education in the old log schoolhouse, with its antiquated schoolmaster.  He was married October 15, 1857 to Susan E. ADAMS.  She was born July 31, 1838 and died January 5, 1877.  By this marriage they had 8 children: Albert H, born November 19, 1858; Marion Z, June 5, 1861, died February 27, 1866; Mary J., born September 4, 1862 died September 2, 1866; Nancy E., born December 15, 1864, died, December 1, 1866; Julia born August 6, 1867; Clara born September 8, 1869, died May 23, 1870; Thomas J., June 18, 1871; Harrison J., born March 17, 1873.  Mr. Rukes was married the second time 8-15-1878 to Mrs. Harriet E (BROWN) CALLIS, daughter of Friend C. and Minerva C. Brown.  Mrs. Rukes was born March 17, 1846 and was married October 1, 1867 to Dr. Cleon born Callis and had two children: Overton M. born February 12, 1869; Stella C. born September 17, 1871, died July 26, 1878.  Her husband was born in Trimble County Kentucky October 26, 1837; was a graduate of Louisville Medical Institute, a member of the Methodist church, and died in Rosedale November 3, 1871.  Mr. Rukes began farming for himself in the Spring of 1857 with about $2,500, and now has 500 acres of well improved land, worth $40 per acre.  He has considerable stock and raises a large quantity of grain.  He is a quiet, peaceable citizen, and never had a lawsuit in his life.  He is a very industrious, enterprising and successful farmer.  In politics he is 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 

Andrew RUSSELL, a prominent farmer of Boyer Valley Township, near the post office of Early, one of the well-known citizens, who settled in this township in 1873, was born in Parke County IN near Rockville, April 6, 1835, a son of Ben and Sarah (Johnson) Russell. The father was born in Kentucky the mother in Ohio.  In 1849, when our subject was 14 the family removed to Clinton County Iowa locating near Lyons where the father died in 1871. As an occupation he had always followed farming had taken an active interest in political affairs always voting Republican was a good citizen and a consistent member of the Christian Church.  The mother is now living in Clinton County age 82.  She has been the mother of 4 sons and 4 daughters.  One son, Monroe became a soldier during the war, in the 2nd Iowa Infantry lives in Jackson County where he was one of the early settlers. On April 23, 1854 our subject started west, overland journey in to Oregon and California and from that date to 1859, engaged in prospecting, mining and freighting with pack mules.  He returned via the Isthmus and Mississippi River to Iowa, located in Clinton County and engaged in farming until 1873. At the latter date he came to Sac County, settling in Boyer Valley Township, where he opened and improved his present farm.  The residence is a good frame structure 1 1/2 stories high, 14 x 22 with an L of the same height also 14 x 22 and is surrounded by a fine grove and orchard of 3 acres. The barn is a convenient building 32 x 50 well constructed and substantial. At the age of 25, in Clinton County Iowa he was married to Easter CASE a native of Clay County IN daughter of Obediah and Susanna Royalty Case. The father was born in Tennessee and mother in Kentucky. They had moved to Clinton County in 1846 where both died.  Two of their sons took part in the late war: Zeniah served in the 26th Iowa and died during service while Isaiah died in the army.  Our subject and wife have 12 children: Luella, wife of Henry Ward resides at Slaughter, Washington; Orion and wife reside in Washington and Albert resides the same; Eudora wife of Oren Prentice resides in Washington she having been a teacher in Sac County before her marriage; Elmondah is the wife of George Smith of Washington; Walter is at home; Edith is the wife of George Roe of this township. Alvin, Ethel, Dayton, Carm and Effie at home. Our subject takes an active interest in politics and always votes the Republican Ticket.  He has been identified with most of the improvements that have been carried on since his settlement here and has been a member of the school board for many years. Mrs. Russell was reared in the Baptist faith in which church she is a valued member. - Biographical History of Crawford, Ida & Sac Counties, Iowa.  Chicago: Lewis 1893, Page 238

RUSSELL , E. C., farmer, Marshall, was born in Nelson County Kentucky January 26, 1826.  His father was Andrew, his mother Cynthia Russell.  They were both natives of Kentucky from which state they came to Parke County in 1845 and settled on the farm now owned by the subj. of this sketch.  Andrew Russell died in this county May 15, 1876 and his wife September29, 1878.  Mr. EC Russell has been twice married; first, May 29, 1856 6o Miss Margaret McMurtry, who died February 27, 1857.  His second marriage was to M. J. McPheeters, a native of Kentucky, born November1828.  She went to Missouri in 1838 with her parents, Robert and Jane L. McPheeters.  her father now resides in MO, and her mother died in 1880.  Mr. Russell has a family of 5 children by his present wife; Elizabeth M; Rebecca J; Cynthia A; Robert A and Margaret BORN  Mr.  Russell has as fine an improved farm as Parke Co. afford, consisting of 160 acres located close to the village of Marshall, where he has all the conveniences of a good railroad market.  (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill)  

RUSSELL , James A., farmer, Marshall, was born in Parke County Indiana in 1852, and is the son of William P. and Elizabeth Russell.  His father came to Parke County in about 1845 and settled on the farm now owned by the subject of this sketch; here he died in 1872.  Mr. Russell's mother now lives at the homestead with Mr. Russell.  In 1873, Mr. Russell was joined in marriage to Miss PE BURFORD, daughter of E. N. Burford of Parke Co.  Mr. Russell is an energetic and working young man and is in a fair way to become one of the leading farmers of Parke Co.  (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill) 

RUSSELL, J. W. ., of Rockville, the subj. Of this sketch, was the eldest son of William and Cynthia A. Russell.  He was born on a farm in Nelson County Kentucky 8th day of September 1824.   Mr. Russell's father owned a plantation in Nelson County and Mr. Russell lived there and worked on the farm till he was 21 receiving meanwhile a common school education.  In 1846, Mr. R. Removed to Parke County and settled on a farm in Washington Township, where he lived till the fall of 1869, when he moved to Rockville.  Mr. R's property, when he began life, consisted of one horse, upon which he owned $50.00 Today he is engaged in milling, dry goods, trade and in packing pork and probably handles more money than any businessman in Parke Co., outside of the banks.  He was married on the 9th day of February 1848 to Lucinda McCord of Parke County, who has borne him 9 children.  (taken from the 1874 Parke Co. Indiana Atlas Page 33)

Peter RUTLEDGE is a prominent farmer in Washington Township, Parke County.  He is the son of Levi and Magdalene Knupp Rutledge and was born in Virginia April 10, 1838.  Levi Rutledge was a native of Virginia, probably born in Rockingham County and was of foreign ancestry.  While yet a youth he was apprenticed to learn the blacksmith's trade which he continued to follow till he reached 21 when he began for himself and pursued his occupation. He was married a few years later to a daughter of Philip Knupp, after which he came to Parke County where he made his home with his son a few years, but became dissatisfied and returned to Virginia.  He was a member of the Dunkard Church and always lived a quiet and unassuming life. His political affiliations were with the Democratic Party. He reared a family of 6 children: Peter, Philip, Anna, Mary, Betty and Susan F.  When Peter Rutledge began in life for himself he had but a small amount with which to start, for from his early youth he had worked by the month to assist his parents in making a living for the family. In 1865 he came to Parke County locating where he now lives in Washington Twp, and at once began working out by the month in a sawmill.  A few years later he bought the mill and operated it until the business ran down so that there was no longer any profit in it.  He then decided to try agriculture for a time.  While operating the mill Mr. Rutledge in clearing away some litter caught his sleeve in the saw and barely escaped his life.  His left arm was severed and several deep gashes were cut in his head and neck. The blow on the head not only laid upon the flesh, but also took a piece of the skull bone.  This serious and unfortunate accident has crippled Mr. Rutledge for life, but he bears his affliction with great fortitude and patience.  In July 1882, Mr. Rutledge was united in marriage to a daughter of Monroe and Eliza A. Lawson Archer, both natives of Kentucky.  The latter bore the given name of Dora and was born in Shelby Co.  Mrs. Rutledge became the mother of 3: Peter and John, twins and William T.  During the late war Mr. Rutledge was compelled to join the Southern Army and served in Co F, 1st Brigade of Fifth Virginia Regiment, under Stonewall Jackson's command.  He went out in 1862 and on the 9th of June received a wound at Ft. Republic.  A minnie-ball weighting 1 1/4 ounces entered the small of his back and 14 and half years later, it was taken from his thigh.  When wounded, in order to avoid going to the Southern hospital, he deserted the rebel army and came west, locating in Ohio just one year before coming to Parke Co.  The splendid farm which belongs to Mr. Rutledge comprises 155 acres of fertile land, and is divided and subdivided into fields of convenient size, some of which are tilled, and others devoted to pasturage.  Mr. Rutledge bears a wide and unblemished reputation as being a man of sterling business qualities and in whatever position he has been placed by his fellow citizen she has bee noted for his fidelity and discretion.  Mr. Rutledge and his worthy wife are connected with United Brethren Church in which they rank among the leading members. In politics Mr. Rutledge is a Prohibitionist and a great temperance worker. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 409 

RYAN, Martin, farmer, Rockville, was born in Tipperary County., Ireland in 1805.  He was married in 1837 to Catharine RYAN born and raised in the same country.  Mr. and Mrs.. Ryan lived in (Ireland till 1840, when, on account of the oppression of the English government and official class, they bade goodbye to the green isle of their birth and sought a free home in America.  They landed at Quebec.  Mr. Ryan labored in the construction of railroads and canal for some time in NY.  He afterward owned 160 acres of land near Logansport and also a lot in Crawfordsville.  He sold both properties and in 1854 came to Parke County, Indiana.  He constructed one mi. Of the Evansville & Crawfordsville railroad and in 1856 bought 80 acres of land in Sec. 19, Adams Township.  Since that time he had engaged in farming and has added to his domains till he now owns 401 acres and is one of the reliable farmer of Parke Co.  He is known as a man whose word is as good as his bond.  They have had 7 children: Bridget (dead, bur. At La Fayette (sic); Mike, James, William, John and Mary.  Mr. and Mrs.. Ryan are members of the Catholic Church.  Mr. Ryan votes the democratic ticket.