Parke County Indiana Biographies  -  W

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WALKER, George W., farmer, Atherton, was born On the Walker farm, November 7, 1832 and here lived, making his father's house his home, until he was married, working for his parents until he arrived at the age of 21.  At this time he rented land and commenced farming for himself, purchasing his present comfortable home on Walker's Bluff in 1865.  And when the call was issued asking for volunteers to fill the depleted ranks of the grand army of the union, he, like many noble sons of freedom, gallantly stepped forward and registered himself to fight for liberty.  He did his duty, amply describes his military record.  He was a member of Co K 31st Indiana Vol. Infantry and was mustered in September 5, 1861 having engaged in the battles of Ft. Donelson, Chickamauga, Shiloh all through the Atlanta campaign, Franklin, Nashville, from Nashville To E. Tenn. And return from Nashville to New Orleans and from here to Texas.  He reenlisted in the winter of 1864 at Bridgeport, Alabama and was mustered out at Indianapolis, in January 1865.  November 18, 1868 he was married to Miss Lara A. COLLINS, daughter of an old merchant of Terre Haute.   They have become the parents of 4 children: Lewis R, Mortimer C, William R, Minnie J.  He is a member of the Methodist church and at present one of the trustees of Centenary church.  His wife is also a member.  He is an Odd Fellow and a republican, casting his first presidential vote for Fillmore in 1856.   

WALKER, Samuel -- deceased, farmer, Atherton, was born September 19, 1806 in Mt. Vernon, Ohio , and is the son of the oldest pioneers of Parke County.  He came with his parents to this county when but 10 years of age.  His father, Joseph Walker married Nancy HARRISON and became the father of 7 children: 3 sons, Samuel, Jesse and James died His father died June 9, 1844, while traveling in the south. His motherdiedSeptember3, 1866 in Florida Township and is buried in the Walker graveyard.  When Mr. Walker first came to this county he was compelled to go to Honey Creek to mill, a distance of near 50 miles.  Mr. Walker lived with his parents until some time after he commenced farming for himself, which was upon the farm now occupied by Mrs. Walker.  Mr. Walker was married January 28, 1832 to Elizabeth TITUS, 3rd daughter Of John and Mary CONKLE Titus, who came to Parke in the fall of 1828, and rented land of Joseph Walker about one and half miles E. Of Mrs. Walker's present home.  Mr. Titus lived here about 4 years, then moved to Clinton, finally moving W. And died December 19, 1838.  Mrs. Titus died March 3, 1845.  Mrs. Walker is the mother of 11 children, 8 of whom are living: George W; Joseph N; Charity E; Asa H who was wounded as a member of Co. K, 31st Indiana, June 22, 1864 and died July 18, 1864; Hannah E; Malinda J; Sarah E; Harvey H; John M. And James M.  Mrs. Walker was a republican and died September 23, 1872, respected as a splendid citizen by the entire community. 

William WALKER. The world is crowded with men and women each trying to gain success through the different avenues of money making and day after day the ceaseless round of duty goes on; some giving attention to professional callings, some buying and selling in commercial headquarters, and still others cultivating the soil.  It is pretty generally conceded that the agriculturist leads the freest and easiest life, since his time is his own through much of the year and certainly to no class of bread winners are we indebted for more beneficial results than to the farmer.  Our subject at the present time is identified with the latter named class and is at this writing working on his farm on Section 21, Reserve Township, Parke County where he has a good estate. He is a native of North Carolina, having been born in Wilkes County, March 2, 1847 to Howard and Alcey PARKER Walker.  The grandfather of our subject was Jesse Walker, who came to Indiana and there remained until his death.  Mr. Walker of this sketch is one of a family of 12 children; those surviving: Martha; Sarah; Charity; Lucy; David; Letty; Ellen; Polly; William and James.  Deceased: Matilda and Wesley.  Our subject was reared on a farm and gained a sound practical knowledge of agricultural pursuits along with a limited education.  In the spring of 1864, when the call for troops was issued, the patriotism of our subject prompted him to enlist in the 54th NC Regiment.  In the fall of that year, while engaged in battle, he was captured at Ft. Fields and carried to prison at Fortress Monroe.  After having taken the oath of allegiance to the government, he went to Indianapolis Indiana and was there taken sick and placed in the hospital, where he remained for six weeks. In the latter part of December he located near Roseville, Florida Township where he went to school the remainder of the winter at the end of which time he hired out on a farm, working by the year for $220 per annum.  For 11 long years he steadfastly persevered and prospered in this work until the spring of 1877 he was enabled to rent a farm which he worked 3 years.  In the year 1880 he purchased 80 acres, where he resided until March, 1884.  At this time he sold and bought another farm of 80 acres on Section 21 of Reserve Township, where he has since resided.  In politics his father was an old-line Whig, but our subject has always been a warm supporter of the Republican Party.  The gentleman of whom we write was united in marriage to Miss Anna WOODARD of Parke County September 20, 1876.  She was the daughter of Zachariah and Harmony COX Woodard, natives of Wayne County North Carolina and Indiana, respectively.  The father was an early pioneer of Reserve Township and was twice married. To himself and first wife were born 3 boys and six girls, all of whom are living except four. His second wife was the mother of 5 children; Francis, a Congregational minister and graduate of Bloomington and Hartford; Julian; Ruth and Anna.  Nerus is deceased. The lady's people were members of the Friends' church. To Mr. Walker and wife have been granted 3 children: Allen C; Gertrude L and Maude R.  Our subject and wife have been working for the cause of the Methodist Church for a number of years, the former having united with the church a quarter of a century ago and the latter 13 years ago. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 262

James M. WANN. The village of Waterman owes not a little to the enterprise and push of this prominent citizen and popular proprietor of the hotel.  Our subject was born in Vermillion County, Indiana August 14, 1840, son of Daniel and Susan GIVENS Wann.  The paternal grandparents removed from Pennsylvania shortly after the birth of their son Daniel and made settlement in Circleville, Ohio, where the grandfather died; his wife passed away in Indiana. They had four sons: Jacob, David, John and Daniel and one daughter, Chesty.  After coming to Parke County, Indiana about 1821, Daniel Wann worked at various occupations but subsequently settled on a farm comprising 400 acres in Fountain County Indiana where his death occurred in 1863.  In his political opinions, he affiliated with the Whigs during the existence of that party and at the organization of the Republican Party joined its ranks.  In his religious convictions he was a Presbyterian.  Of his first union 6 children were born: William; John, who served as a soldier during the Civil War; Mrs. Elizabeth THOMPSON, deceased; James M of this sketch; Elisha, a soldier in the late war and a member of the 149th Indiana Infantry; and Mrs. Margaret SELF.  The second union of Daniel Wann was with Mrs. Charlotte LUNGER RANDOLPH, who bore him the following children: Daniel; Isaac; Sarah (Mrs. Cartwright); Harriet; Charles and Dana.  The last named died in childhood and one other died in infancy.  The third marriage of Daniel Wann united him with Mrs. Margaret CARMAN, a sister of the second wife.  The childhood of our subject was passed uneventfully on his father's farm and he acquired a practical education in the common schools of the neighborhood.  At the opening of the Civil War, he enlisted in the service of the union in August 1861 and his name was enrolled as a member of Co. A. 31st Indiana Infantry.  He participated in the battles of Ft. Donelson and Shiloh and in the latter engagement was wounded in the right side.  He remained in the hospital until January 1863 and upon his recovery rejoined his regiment near Murfreesboro Tennessee.  He was present at Chickamauga; Bridgeport; Buzzard's Roost; Resaca and Kennesaw Mountain.  In the battle of the last named place he was wounded in the left shoulder and was afterward in the hospitals at Chattanooga and Nashville.  Upon receiving a furlough, he returned home and in October 1865 was discharged at Indianapolis where he was serving in the veteran corps for a year.  Returning to the peaceful pursuits of agriculture, Mr. Wann engaged in farming until 1885, since which time he has been proprietor of a hotel. He is one of the influential Republicans of the community and has served as Justice of the Peace for 12 years.  His marriage in April 1866, united him with Miss Melissa, daughter of Jacob and Margaret LUNGER CARMAN, and they are the parents of one child, Frank h who is in Fernwood near Chicago, Illinois. Mrs. Wann is a prominent and devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and labors unwearied in behalf of religious and benevolent enterprises.  As may be imagined, Mr. Wann takes great interest in the work of the Grand Army of the Republic and is also identified with the Masonic fraternity. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana (Chapman Brothers, 1893) Page 269

WARD, Greenberry, farmer, Rockville, was born in Woodford County, Kentucky, September 1, 1800.  His father was born in Rockbridge County, Virginia, October 1, 1770 and died February 10, 1840 Parke County.  His mother was born in Virginia, October 13, 1770 died January 11, 1857, this county.  Mr. Ward had a common school education and lived in Harrison County, Kentucky, until he was 21, when he moved with his father to Fayette County Indiana .  In 1826 he came to Parke County and settled about four miles south. Of his present residence.  From 1867 to 1870 he was peculiarly interested in the mercantile business with his son-in-law, William H. HARDING of Rockville.  Mr. Ward is a republican.  He and his wife have been members of the Methodist church since 1829.  They are among the pioneer settlers of this community and have seen the face of nature changed from a wilderness, inhabited by wild beasts and Indians, into a garden of beauty.  Mr. and Mrs.. Ward are enjoying a green old age, and can look back over lives well spent in useful labor and Christian endeavor.  Their children are: William N., who died March 1847; James A. Who died January 10, 1832 and Adeline E, who was married to William H. Harding, January 29, 1856 and now resides in Rockville.   

Among the old settlers of Parke County who lived to a ripe old age, none were more universally honored and respected than Greenberry and Louvisa WARD.  They were married in Fayette County, Indiana on 5 September 1824 and two years later came to Parke County.  At that time Indians were still to be seen here.  The young husband and wife built their cabin in the unbroken forest, two miles southwest of Rockville.  To the west and south of them not another habitation was within 9 miles.  Six years later by indomitable energy and hard work Mr. Ward had cleared and had in cultivation 70 acres. At that time (1832) he bought the place where he and his wife lived until their death.  It was made into one of the finest farms of Parke County and the Ward home (2 1/2 miles NW of Rockville) 40 years ago was an ideal country residence.  No man in the county had a better reputation for integrity and honor than Greenberry War.  Mr. and Mrs. Ward became members of the first Methodist Church organized in Rockville and ever remained active and consistent communicants of that church.  They were benevolent in their relations to the community, warm hearted and hospitable in their home. They were the parents of 3 children only one of whom lived to comfort them in their old age - Mrs. Adeline HARDING who is now living in Rockville. Greenberry Ward died September 21, 1891; Mrs. Ward February 10, 1890. - 1816-1916 Parke County Indiana Centennial Memorial.  Rockville: Rockville Chautauqua Association, 1916, Page. 103

Greenberry WARD was born September 1, 1800 in Woodford County, Kentucky and is, therefore just six months younger than the 19th century.  His history is full as the history of the century; his life covers the most momentous stage, perhaps in the progress of man on this planet.  The steamboat, locomotive, electric telegraph - dreams of scientific enthusiasts in his youth - are now the common places of life; the nation he first knew as a struggling infant among governments, has grown to an empire and from the Northwestern Territory that was, he has seen evolved a sisterhood of rich and populous states.  At an early age he accompanied his father to Connersville, this state and in 1821, they together made an exploring expedition to the Wabash country.  At the end of a day of toilsome struggle through tangles pea vine and spice wood, across black swamps and over beech ridges, they camped for the night in an open beech wood near the cabin of Cornelia Sunderland.  Delighted at the prospect of good neighbors, Mr. Sunderland urged them to share his cabin, small as it was but they remained in their covered wagon.  The cabin stood in what is now the orchard on the Beadle farm; around it was a clearing only large enough to insure the dwelling against falling trees; southward and westward the beech flat gradually yielded to a slope thickly set with sugar tree and walnut and beyond that was the black swamp which extended almost to the bluffs of Rocky Run.  That farm has changed owners but once in 58 years; and excepting a few months occupancy by Mr. Nathan Adamson; two families have occupied it for all that time.  Mr. Sunderland had located his land but a few weeks before; and here he had time to make any improvements another land hunter fixed upon the same tract.  Mounting his swiftest horse Mr. Sunderland rode all night in a rain storm, reached Crawfordsville early next day, threw his "numbers" on the counter and had just got the clerk of the United States Land Office at work on the certificate when the other claimant arrived - ten minutes too late.  The Ward's liked the neighborhood, but thought it safe to wait till the county seat was fixed before making a location.  They halted an hour or two on the present site of Rockville.  In the town there was not a house, but Aaron hand had a cabin on the lot now occupied by Mrs. Kirkpatrick.  Andrew Ray was making a settlement, but had not completed his dwelling.  Soon after he erected and moved into the building at the northwest corner of the square and the first casualty in the settlement was the "drowning" of his daughter, Polly.  There was an uncurbed well in the yard into which the girl fell.  John Underwood, who saw her fall, ran and jumped into the well and held her above water till help came but the general verdict was that she was dead.  Mr. Sunderland, who was present, says she "never breathed for a quarter of an hour."  But hot blankets, hot salt and filling and exhausting the lungs restored her and with a series of unearthly yells she revived.  She afterwards said that death would be a mercy compared to the pain she suffered in coming to.  She survived to be the wife of Ed Fagin and a matron of many years and wide experience.  In October 1821 when the Ward's reached here, Adams Township was what the poets call a howling wilderness, a tangled wildwood, thick set in places with spice wood and pea vines, and lively with deer and turkeys.  "We could see deer," says Mrs. Ward, "every mile or so when we rode through the woods.  On our way to meeting on Sunday they would start up from the roadside and I would shout my loudest to see them go bounding over the logs." But it was not till 1826 that James Ward, the father and Greenberry settled permanently in Parke though several of the family came out here each year.  In 1822, the father entered 3/4 of a section and bought the remaining quarter of Jesse Drake.  This last was the land now owned by Will Allen's heirs; the other 3/4 includes the "poor house farm" and adjacent tracts.  For all this he paid $1000 - $1.25 per acre.  Soon afterwards he entered three 80-acre tracts south of town - the land where Whit and Doc Puett now live.  On this last tract Greenbery located in 1826. Not an acre was cleared when he went there.  He at once "deadened" 80 acres and in the six years he lived there cleared 40 of it.  Meanwhile there were great changes. By 1828, the best tracts were all occupied.  In 1826 and '27 the settlers within Mr. Ward's knowledge were: James McVeigh; Payton Wilson; Mr. Linebarger; Perley Mitchell; Squire Harger; William Cook, Cornelius Sunderland, John Sunderland (on the farm now owned by James A. Allen); Solomon Simmons; Mr. Kramer (Dan's father) and others, besides the population of Rockville.  All the above were neighbors, though some of them lived 8 or 10 miles away. But by 1830 it was uncommon to find a stretch of two miles without a house and thereafter distant neighbors were not so much sought after. In 1832, Mr. Ward moved to the farm he now occupies where he has lived 47 years.  He bought if of Nathaniel Newlin who bought it of Adam Siler (grandfather of Elwood Slier) who entered it in 1821.  Nathan Page in 1826 an elderly man occupied a cabin nearby.  His wife brought an apple tree sprout from Ohio in a tea kettle and set it out near her door - "just to see if Ohio apples would grow in Wabash country."  It grew and thrived, the first tree in this section to bear fruit and but a few weeks since Sarah, wife of Rev. John Tansey and her mother, wife of John Sunderland visited the old tree and cut some canes to take to their home in California.  Mr. Page's daughter, Nancy became the wife of Cornelius Sunderland and her adventures in the woods form an affecting episode in the history of the times.

 In the late autumn of 1821 or 1822 she visited her father's and started in the afternoon to return home with a reel she had borrowed.  Straying carelessly along she stopped from time to stir the fallen leaves and pick up hickory nuts when a sudden darkening of the sky and fall of snow caused her to look up and she saw she had lost the path.  As but half a mile intervened between the cabins, she hastened forward in the supposed direction of home; but was soon horror-stricken to find herself in dense woods without a clue to guide her.  Night came on as she hunted eagerly for the path and occasionally shout for help but no answer was returned and she noticed that the dog which had accompanied her had disappeared. She wandered and shouted till far into the night then utterly exhausted took refuge in a hollow tree.  The snow storm had increased to an unusual degree; the ground was covered to a depth of several inches the bushes were heavy-laden with wet snow and her limbs were wet and chilled.  In this wretched condition she passed the night and next day wandered on till late in the afternoon utterly exhausted and chilled, she sat down to await help or die.  Meanwhile the scattered settlers had been aroused and put on the search.  When evening came and she did not reach home her husband was almost distracted; the neighbors were notified and runners sent to all the settlers north of Big Raccoon. By noon the next day nearly all the men in the western part of the county were out.  It was the season when the Indians were not ranging the woods much and so no information could be gained from them. About sunset John Sunderland while hunting along the bluffs of Raccoon heard a faint cry - so faint that he could not ascertain the direction till it was several times repeated in answer to his shout.  Following the sound he came upon a human being, learning against a tree whom he confidently "believed to be a squaw!"  He supposed she had been lost or abandoned by her tribe; nor was it till he drew near and actually touched her that he recognized his sister-in-law.  30 hours of toil and suffering had completely transformed her; her dress was in rags, her voice was almost gone and she was so chilled she could not climb upon a log and he had to lift her on the horse and hold her as if she were a child.  But the constitution of a pioneer woman soon brought health and she survived to a good age to be the mother of a large family of vigorous sons and handsome daughters.  And it is recorded that, woman-like, she had held on to the borrowed reel through all her wanderings.  When the country was settled winter-grass grew plentifully in the woods and cattle kept in good condition on it when there was no snow; but that grass died out as soon as settlements thickened and was succeeded in a few years by blue-grass.  On the black walnut and sugar tree land the pea vine flourished but that too soon died out before the advancing settlers and stock.  All the old settlers speak of mud as the evil of pioneer times.  Some seasons it was always muddy but for the most part the roads were good twice a year; when all the ground had got thoroughly dried out late in summer and when it was frozen solid in midwinter. Without a dissenting voice all travelers pronounced this section the muddiest country in the world. The Black Swamp which began just west of James S. Steele's present farm was particularly readed. When the roads were first located through it every man took an axe with him and cut his way through the bordering woods but when the settlers fence up the land the road was often impassable.  We boys in 1850-55 thought the roads bad but the pioneers testify they had been much worse.  When Mr. Ward settled near here Rockville had 8 families; Andrew Ray; Wallace Rea; Arthur Patterson; Aaron Hand; Thomas Blackburn; Jeremiah Ralston; the Lockwoods and Dr. McDonald.  Mr. McCall partner of Patterson lived on the McNutt's place. Robert McEwen lived just out of town.  The winter of 1826'7 was mild and muddy; the next summer very seasonable.  Corn planted July 1st came to perfection and after that there was no scarcity of that grain.  But wheat was far from plenty and more than one woman took fine white meal and sifted it through book muslin to get enough flour (of meal) to make pie crust.  In 1826-27 and '28 Patterson & McCall had an immense trade.  Rockville began to be looked on as a place and Duncan Derroch and John R. Marshall also went into business here. Not very long after Persine Harris came and opened a store.  About 1828-9 there was a distressing scarcity of money which yielded gradually to the flush times of 1832-36 after which came the grand smash.  But as many people were moving west through here the trade continued tolerably good. Emigrants usually commenced swearing at the mud about the time they left Williams Creek and kept it up till the passed Rocky Run; and in March and April it was not uncommon to see one mired down at the edge of town.  As late as 1845 people often started in a great hurry from Terre Haute and after being stalled a dozen times finally abandoned their vehicles a few miles out and walked to town through the woods.  The yellow clay hills which surround the town worked up into beautiful mortar not quite so tough as glue but a little worse than putty.  When the stage route was established most of the passengers were willing to walk from the Harshman place to town; but some of the stuck-up ones grumbled at having to carry a rail to pry the coach out.  In the winter of 1828 Rockville estimated her population at 200 and began to agitate for a paper.  So one the Wabash Herald was started edited at first by a Mr. Clarke from Ohio.  It was a mild "Jackson " Paper but more a home organ than anything else.  Mr. Clarke soon yielded to John Marts and he soon sold the paper to William T. Noel who changed it to the Rockville Intelligencer. Mr. Ward was a subscriber to the first paper issued in the county and has been to every subsequent one.  About 1834 the county manifested strong Whig tendencies, and the county paper gradually veered that way.  After Noel, a Mr. Border took the paper and after him Henry Slavens who changed it to the Olive Branch. This was the Whig organ for several years and at length politics became so pronounced that Mr. Matthew Simpson who had bought out Mr. Slaves changed it to Parke County Whig.  It is not known whether any files of these papers are in existence. Rufus Simpson took with him to Terre Haute a tolerably complete set of the old papers which passed from hand to hand till it has got where we cannot find it.  If any person knows of any files, partial or complete, or even old copies, they will confer a favor by informing this office.  From the Whig the next change was to the True Republican and thence to the Rockville Republican which is thus descended from the original Herald by true apostolically succession.  No doubt, could one peruse all these issues of 51 years, he would find a deal of chaff with some grains of golden truth much personal gossip of unknowns whose names are now on moss grown tombs, a vast amount of hot political gospel at which this generation would laugh, a few columns of tolerably good prose and baskets full l of wretched poetry.  Early in 1829 the names of Greenberry Ward and Lavicie Ward, his wife were inscribed on the rolls of the Methodist Church in Rockville of which they have been consistent and devout members for 50 years.  Samuel Brinton was pastor at that time. The church society was established here in 1822.  By 1830 society hereabouts was considered first rate for a new country.  Politics did not cut much figure till the great issue between Clay & Jackson was made then things were hot enough for awhile.  Many pioneers took so little interest in the matter at first that they cannot remember for whom they voted but after the Clay & Jackson question there is no want of memory.  After one vote for Jackson Mr. Ward settled down into a firm Whig, and thence by regular succession became a good Republican.  The panic of 1837 split parties all to pieces and resulted in a great political revolution.  When men made rails for 25 cents per 100, or hauled wheat to Lafayette and sold it for 37 1/2 cents, they were in a humor to vote against the party in power without debating the issues.  And as it was in 1837-40 so it was in 1874-78 and ever shall be in days of panic to all time. Mr. Ward went through the panic by the simple process of living on what he raised not having been in debt when it began.  And having got down to modern times we need not trace his history  father, save to say that his 80th year finds him in excellent health , well preserved enjoying the reward of a temperate life in a placid old age and a mind free from care or fear.  - Rockville Tribune 11 September-1879

Marion WARD.  One of the most prominent of the business men of Indianapolis is Marion Ward, who moved with his parents when a boy of six from his native county of Parke to Fayette County and later to Indianapolis.  His parents James and Osee Bell Ward were both born near Lexington Kentucky and came to Indiana with their respective parents when children and located on farms near Connersville, Indiana. They both died at Ridge Farm in Illinois she at age 68 and he at 86.  8 children blessed their marriage, 4 now living: Sarah the wife of James K. Jamerson of Connersville, Indiana; Marion; Adeline the wife of Dr. John Guffin living at Ridge farm, Illinois and Osee the wife of G. C. Hanson of Connersville, Indiana.  James Ward was a life long tiller of the soil.  The boyhood days of Marion Ward were spent on his parents' farm two and a half miles from Connersville, Indiana in Fayette County and when 18 he moved with them to Vermilion County, Illinois and farmed with his father although their home was in the village of Ridge Farm. But after one year there as an agriculturist the son secured a clerkship in the general mercantile store of A. J. Darnell at Ridge Farm and after two years there in 1871 became associated with his brother, Dr. Boswell Ward in the sale of drugs in Indianapolis.  The latter was one of the pioneer druggists of this city organizing his business here as early as 1867 and his store was first located on St. Clair and New Jersey Streets but after a year moved to the Bushman Block on Ft. Wayne Avenue where it remained from 1873 to 1883.  This firm was the first to solicit city trade from the retail druggists and having in the meantime located at 40 East Washington Street they extended their wholesale trade and also continued the retail trade until 1893 when they discontinued the latter department and moved to 120 S. Meridian St and later 207-109 South Meridian the present location of the house. They at one time suffered the loss of their business by fire and were at temporary quarters for the nine months required in constructing the building erected expressly for their business. The senior member of this firm, Dr. Boswell Ward died in August 1903 and in his death Indianapolis lost one of her pioneer business men and worthy citizens. The firm of Ward Brothers Drug Company was incorporated in 1896. Marion Ward is a member of the commercial & Columbia Clubs of the German House and Republican Party. - Dunn, Jacob Piatt.  Greater Indianapolis : the history, the industries, the institutions, and the people of a city of homes.  Chicago: Lewis Publishing Company, 1910, Page 1098

James P. WARE is a stock and land trader in Washington Township, Parke County and is a son of William and Nancy Sanders Ware.  He was born in Shelby County Kentucky February 19, 1817.  William Ware, the father of our subject was born in Virginia and began for himself when quite young.  Although born and reared in the very midst of slavery, he never was a slaver and was greatly opposed to its extension or even its existence.  He married in Virginia and moved to Kentucky, where he lived until coming to Indiana, where he settled in Parke County 1836. His wife was born in Virginia and died in 1844.  Mr. and Ms. Ware reared a large family of 11 children of which the subject is the youngest and he and his sister, Catherine are the only surviving.  On coming to Parke County the father of our subject purchased 80 acres of well-improved land in Green Township, where he lived until his death, which occurred 4years after the decease of his wife. He was of the old Whig party and with his wife was a zealous worker in the Baptist Church.  James P. Ware remained at home with his parents until he reached 27 years. At this juncture, he married a lady by the name of Mary a, a daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Daniel Dawney.  Mrs. Ware was born in Putnam County Indiana having for playmates in childhood Indiana children for her parents were early settlers there.  Mr. Ware and wife began their married life with only a few hundred dollars so were compelled to rent for a few years. At the end of this time he was enabled to purchased 80 acres of improved land in Green Township, this county on which they reside 5 years and then bought a 1/4 section in what is now Howard Township.  After paying for this he invested in 48 acres, same township, subsequently coming to Washington Township, where he purchased 200 acres of the very best farm land, for which he paid $11,000.  Mr. Ware has not been exempt from the hardships of life, for he started to make his own way in the world with no means whatever but he never allowed disappointment or discouragement to cloud his hope of ultimate success and this has, without doubt, been a great factor in his successful life.  He has sold his large farm, on which he spent so many years of toil, and is now enjoying a quiet, peaceful life in Marshall, realizing to the fullest extent the necessity of young men being early taught to gain their livelihood by the work of this own hands.  He has lived in Marshall for the past 6 years, providing liberally for his wife and daughter, Sarah.  The children who died were Jane, and William R.  The surviving are: Susan who is the wife of William Skeeters; Eliza C, wife of George Hobson; Mattie who is married to John Cannon and Morton C, who married Lennie M. Cannon.  Mrs. Ware is a staunch, Republican in politics and is a well posted and intelligent man who has profited by the broad culture obtained from careful newspaper reading. The Baptist Church finds in Mr. and Mrs. Ware active and influential members. Mr. Ware has been very successful and is abundantly able, financially to retire from business. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 398  

WARNER, James, farmer, Montezuma, was born in Culpepper County, Virginia, May 5, 1822 and came to Parke County, Indiana, with his parents in 1831, where they lived until their deaths in 1869.  In 1855, Mr. Warner was married to Miss Louisa DEMOTT, of Parke County, and by this married they have four children: Sylvester, Barbara E, Oliver P, and Mary J.  Mr. Warner is a first-class farmer, always attending to everything at the right time.  He owns 329 acres of fine improved farming land, with everything necessary to carry on farming.  He is highly respected by his neighbors, and is considered a man of his word. (Beadle, J. H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers reprinted 1977 by The Bookmark, Knightstown Indiana ).  

James WARNER. No class of men has contributed more to the substantial prosperity of Parke County than its farmers and stockmen, among whom the subject of this brief life record is well worthy of mention.  He is conducting agricultural operations in Reserve Township on Section 17, which is the location of his finely tilled and attractive farm.  Mr. Warner was born May 5, 1823, in Culpeper County, Virginia, and was the son of Peter and Frances Milbourn Warner.  His grandfather, John, came from Germany at about the close of the War for Independence and settled in Loudoun County and later in Culpeper.  In 1836 he removed to Parke County, this state, coming here by wagon and consuming 7 weeks in the journey hither. A year later he removed to Lawrence County, Illinois where he purchased about 1000 acres of raw land, on which he lived until his death at a good old age, August 1841.  This gentleman was twice married, his first wife being Mary GRUBB and to them were born the following children: Mary, who married John UPDYKE; Nancy, the wife of George SWAN and Peter, Joel, James and John.  His second marriage was with Hilda DUKE, and to this union several sons were born: Andrew Jackson; George Washington; James Monroe and James Madison.  The father of our subject was born in Culpeper County, Virginia in September 1796.  He served in the War of 1812 and 20 years after settled on a farm in this county, making the journey from his native state overland by wagon and ox teams.  The family started for their new home, and on Christmas Day, after traveling for about 3 months, they found shelter under the roof of Samuel Brown, with whom they remained until erecting a log house for themselves on Section 16 Reserve Township, Parke County.  The land was leased by him in partnership with his brothers, James and Peter, and on this he remained until 1863 when he located on 260 acres which are included in our subject's present farm.  In addition to this, he also owned 240 acres on Section 16, 160 on Section 9 and 160 East of Montezuma, besides 400 which he improved, making a total of about 1000 acres which he owned at the time of his death, September 14, 1869.  His good wife, daughter of Levi Milbourn, of Virginia was born in Loudon County Jan 4, 1794 and was called to the better land July 18, 1869.  The parents of our subject had born to them 11 children 9 of whom lived to comfort their declining years.  The names of these children: Alpheus deceased); John; Mary; James; Sarah, who became the wife of John R Hendricks; Robert; Henry; Elizabeth, Mrs. Jenkin Phillips; and Nancy, who married James Mathas.  The father was a Democrat, politically.  James Warner was reared on a farm, receiving a district-school education; and at the age of 21 began on his own account on his father's farm, and at his 30th year was enabled to make his first purchase of 212 acres north of Sugar Creek, which he improved as rapidly as possible.  In 1865 he removed to the place where he now resides on Section 17, Reserve where he cared for his parents until their death.  At the present time he owns 410 acres on which he lives, besides two other tracts of 108 and 35 acres, respectively.  As a companion and help mate on life's journey, Mr. Warner chose Miss Louisa DEMOTT, who was born in the town of Reserve 1836.  She became the mother of 4 children whom she named Sylvester; Barbara E, wife of Tim Sullivan; Oliver Perry and Mary J, wife of Nathan Mathas.  The mother died in the prime of life at age 38.  Mr. Warner has proved a very useful acquisition to the citizenship of the county since he took up his abode here, his ability as a farmer making him a valuable assistant in maintaining and extending the most important of the industries of this region.  His political views find expression in the principles of the Democratic Party of which he is a warm supporter.  He is a self-made man in the broadest sense of the word, and the architect of his own future.  - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana, Page 306

WARNER, John, farmer, Montezuma, was born in Culpepper County, Virginia, October 8, 1820 and in 1831 came with his parents to Parke County, who settled on the farm now owned by Henry Warner, one of their sons.  They lived there until 1864, after which they removed four miles NE of Montezuma, where they lived until their deaths, the father dying in 1869, and the mother in the same year.  Mr. Warner, the subject of this sketch, was raised on a farm, and farming has always been his occupation.  He is the owner of 316 acres of well improved land, on which he has made all the improvements.  He is considered a model farmer of Parke Co.  In 1857, he was married to Miss Margaret SHUPE, daughter of Martin and Elizabeth Shupe, who were natives of Ohio  and came to Parke Co. in an early day.  Mrs. Warner was born in Parke County, Indiana December 13, 1835.  Their family consists of: Oliver, Elizabeth, Athes, Garret and Luda.  (Beadle, J. H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers reprinted 1977 by The Bookmark, Knightstown Indiana ). 

WARNER, John is a farmer whose place, by virtue of its well-tilled acres, its neat buildings and general appearance of prosperity, proclaims him to be a man who is not satisfied with mere existence.  He was born October 8, 1820, in Culpepper Co, Virginia to Peter and Frances MILBOURN Warner.  The grandfather of our subject, John Warner, was born in Virginia and followed the occupation in which is father had engaged before him.  He moved to Lawrence County, Illinois in 1837, where he bought a farm, on which he lived but a short time, passing away in 1838.  Mr. Warner was twice married, his first wife, Miss Mary GRUBB bearing him 4 sons and two daughters. The boys were named Peter; Joel; James and John; the latter dying in Illinois.  The girls were Nancy and Mary who married John UPDYKE and died in Illinois.   After the decease of the first wife, Mr. Warner was married to Melinda DUKE who became the mother of four children: Jack; Washington; Benjamin F and Thomas J.  The father of our subject, who was a brave soldier in the War of 1812, came to this county in an early day.  For a more complete history of his life, we would refer our reader to the sketch of James Warner, to be found elsewhere in this volume. The subject of this notice was compelled to depend on himself for his education.  At the age of 25 he located on 160 acres, where he resides at the present time and which he has improved by his untiring labors.  Since that time, he has added to his landed possessions until he now owns 360 acres of fertile land.  In politics he is a Democrat.  In April, 1857, he settled in life with Miss Margaret, daughter of Martin and Elizabeth MAJOR SHOUP as his companion. This lady was born in Parke County December 12, 1834, coming from Ohio to Liberty Township this county about four years previous to her marriage.  Mr. and Mrs.. Shoup had 14 children 10 of whom they reared: Daniel; Edward; John; Harriet; Margaret; Elvira; Hannah; Rebecca J and Mary E.  Mr. and Mrs.. Warner became the parents of 7 children 5 of whom reached manhood and womanhood, namely: Oliver; Elizabeth; Athel ; Garret and Luda May.  Oliver died at age 25.  Mr. Warner has been a liberal contributor to churches of all denominations, and is an honored and highly esteemed citizen, possessing many excellencies of character.  . Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana (Chapman Brothers, 1893), Page 632

John WARRICK, one of the most industrious and successful farmers of Green Township, Parke County was born in Fleming County, Kentucky October 18, 1832.  He is the son of James Warrick and was born in the Keystone State to John Warrick, who was of English ancestry, coming from there to Fleming Co when but 14.  Here he settled in the vast wilderness among the Indians, where he soon married.  He then came out to Indiana and looked for a suitable location but he became disgusted with the county and returned home. He was an extensive farmer in Kentucky and a slave owner, keeping a large number of slaves on his immense plantation.  James Warrick grew to manhood in Fleming County and there married Miss Mary Spencer, daughter of James Spencer who came to Greene Township, this county where he resided until his death.  After Mr. Warrick was married, he located in Kentucky, but came to this state in 1834, and settled on a farm that is near Sappenfield, where Daniel Sappenfield now lives.  There he purchased a farm that was in a perfectly wild condition and at once set about clearing and improving it.  On this place he lived until he moved to Iowa about 1885 where he located on a farm and there lived until his death.  Mrs. Warrick died in the old home place in this township in the year 1851 leaving 7 children that grew to mature years, 4 of whom are still living: John, our subject, who is the second eldest; Elizabeth Allen, the widow of John Braden at present living in Monroe County, Iowa; Henry who is an Iowa farmer; Thomas, who is a farmer in the same county.  Those that are deceased are named William; James and Milton.  The first two died while in the late war in which they were gallant soldiers.  The father of our subject owned 160 acres of finely cultivated land in this township which he sold before his death.  He was a member of the Christian church and a Deacon.  John Warrick was about 2 when he came to Indiana where he was reared and educated in the common schools.  He lived with his father until he moved to Iowa, after which he spent one year in helping his parents.  Returning to this county, he was married February 5, 1857 to Miss Harriet CORD, a daughter of Jacob Corn, who was a native of Fleming Co, Kentucky and emigrated to Indiana in 1826, where he located 1/12 miles west of our subject's farm on the Benjamin Jones farm.  The father of Jacob Cord was also Jacob and came to Indiana before this time and located on the land that our subject's father-in-law owned.  He afterward moved to Vermillion Co, ill where Mrs. Warrick was born June 3, 1836 and whence when about 1 she came with her father to Parke County.  He located in Rockville and followed farming until his death.  After the marriage of Mr. Warrick he moved to the place where he now lives.  This tract of land was partly improved and he has, by economical living and steadfast perseverance, added modern conveniences to his landed possessions until he now is the proud owner of one of the finest and most beautiful farms in the county, comprising 295 acres of the very best farming land.  The most of his farm is giving in pasture land, on which he grazes some very fine stock.  This magnificent estate is kept in a fine state of cultivation by good drainage, there being about 2000 rods of tile thereon.  He has been engaged chiefly in breeding stock for market purposes.  Mr. Warrick is the father of 6 children; 3 of whom are; Mary Elizabeth, the wife of Alexander Harbison, who lives in Oklahoma, where he is engaged in various pursuits; Nancy, wife of James H. Odell a prominent druggist of Montezuma and William Alexander who is also in Montezuma.  In politics Mr. Warrick is Republican. He is a member of the Christian Church of Waveland, as is also his companion and he has acted in the capacity of a Deacon for a number of years.  Mr. Warrick has taken great pride in improving his farm and has ever been a hard worker. He is an intelligent and honest man and there is no farm in the county that shows more thrift of whose farm has better building than Mr. Warrick's.  The residence stands back from the road on a slight eminence, and commands a beautiful view of the country. T he family is highly respected by the entire community. - 1893 Portrait & Biographical History of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana, Chicago: Chapman Brothers, Page 446

WATERMAN, Cale W., farmer, Waterman, is the son of Richard M. Waterman, who settled in Vermilion Co. in 1 832 and practiced medicine there for 25 years, moving in 1857 to the town of Waterman, which, by the way, was named for him, where he packed port and sold goods for many years and was a leading man in this part of the county.  At the age of 54 he enlisted in the 31st Ind. reg. and died in the service.  Mr. Waterman was born in Eugene, Vermilion (sic) County in 1839 and lived there until he was 17 years old, when he moved to Waterman and engaged in business, doing a large trade in dry goods, pork packing and grain.  In 1857 the firm shipped 100,000 bushels of corn and 60,000 bushels of wheat.  But the closing of the Wabash & Erie canal stopped operations, and Mr. Waterman went to farming, and now devotes his time to managing his farm of 570 acres.  In 1861 he was married to Miss Edmonia McCormick, daughter of David McCormick of Cabell Co, Virginia and they have 6 children: Letta, Richard, Samuel W, Charles C, Mary and Caleb W.  Mr. Waterman is justly proud of his family record, which runs back to an early period in the history of the country.  He is the son of Richard, whose father was Caleb; the son of Richard, whose male progenitor was Nathaniel, the son of Richard Waterman, whose father was Amaziah; the son of Richard Waterman, who came from Bristol, England, in the good ship Lion, along with Roger Williams, in 1630 and in 1634 was taken before the general court of Massachusetts, and banished upon pain of death if he ever returned, as being erroneous, heretical and obstinate.  Mr. Waterman is a prominent and enthusiastic member of the greenback party, and was a delegate tot he Chicago convention which nominated Gen. Weaver.  Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill 

Prominent among the successful, energetic and thrifty men of Jasper County stands the name of John H. WATT who is extensively engaged in tilling the soil.  He is a native of Parke County, Indiana his birth having occurred 9 March 1851. His father, Alexander K. Watt was born in Butler County, Ohio April 11, 1824 son of Alexander and Mary Watt, the latter of Irish descent.  The former was born in Pennsylvania of Scotch-Irish descent and he became an early pioneer of both Ohio and Indiana.  He followed farming as a life occupation and was a well-educated man for his time, keeping well posted on the issues and questions of the day.  Their son, Alexander K. Watt removed to Indiana with his parents when a child and he still  makes his home in Parke County, that state where he is engaged in agricultural pursuits.  In his political affiliations he is a supporter of the Democracy but takes no active part in politics. For his wife he chose Mary H. Harding who was born near Shelbyville, Shelby County, Kentucky  but was reared in Indiana to which state she removed with her parents when a child.  She passed away in 1898 at the age of 72. Her father, Mason Harding was also a native of Kentucky but on account of the slavery question left that state and took up his abode in Indiana. He, too, followed the quiet pursuits of the farm.  Mr. and Mrs. Watt became the parents of 9 children; Minerva, wife of R. M. Webster, a resident of Indiana; John H the subject of this review; George of Mineral Twp; Mahala wife of John Graves, also of Indiana; Thomas and William residents of Parke County, Indiana; Amanda, the wife of George Zeuschnitt of Fredonia, Kansas; Purlina, wife of M. Miller of Indiana and Ellen wife of P. P. Belt, a jeweler and machinist at Fredonia, Kansas.  John H. Watt, whose name introduces this review, was reared in the county of his nativity and was early inured to the work of field and meadow.  He remained in the Hoosier state until 1881, which year witnessed his arrival in Jasper County, Missouri.  He had since remained a resident of this state and his first purchase of land here consisted of the farm on which he and his brother George are still engaged in agricultural pursuits.  Both have remained unmarried and in fact of the four sons of the family all have remained single the youngest son having been born in 1858. Our subject and his brother own 300 acres of well improved and fertile land and thereon they are extensively engaged in general farming their efforts in that direction being attended with a high and well merited degree of success.  In politics, Mr. Watt is a free-silver advocate. His life record is a worthy one and is such as to commend him to the respect and esteem of the entire community. - McGregor, Malcolm G. The biographical record of Jasper County, Missouri. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Company, 1901, Page 430

WEAVER, J. H. , farmer, Annapolis, was born in Harrison County, Indiana , December 15, 1824.  He is the son of John and Margaret (note: the typist of this page and keeper of Parke County Indiana  GenWeb page knows her name to be CRECELIUS but it was NOT included in this article-- see his brother's article below), WEAVER who came to Parke County in 1831 and settled close to the village of Bloomingdale.  They now live in Liberty Township, this county.  The subject of this sketch has been a resident of Parke Co. since 1831 and by industry he has become the owner of a fine farm with good improvements and well stocked.  His early life was spent working on a farm and attending school at such times as he could be spared from work.  In this way he was able to get a good common school education. After this he engaged in teaching, which he followed for 13 years.  He also has worked more or less at the mason's trade.  In 1865, he was elected trustee of his township and reelected again and served one term.  He did not take an active part in the rebellion, but did much to assist the widows and orphans.  Mr. Weaver has been twice married: first in 1846; this wife died in 1854, and his second marriage was in 1856 to Mary A. FINNEY, daughter of Joseph Finney, of Parke County and by this union they have 9 children: John, Annie, Joseph A, Andrew, Mary E, William H, George O, Perdley and Benjamin F.   Taken from: Page300 History of Parke County Indiana ; J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880  

WEAVER, W. B.  , merchant, Annapolis, was born in Penn Township, Parke County Indiana in 1834.  His father, John Weaver, was a native of Virginia, and his mother, Margaret (CRECELIEUS) Weaver, was of PA.  His father came to Parke County in 1831, and settled near Bloomingdale and in 1835 they removed to Liberty Township, where they now reside.  Mr. Weaver lived at home, working on the farm, and at the same time received a good common school education, after which he engaged in teaching for six years.  In 1861, he was married to Miss Margaret BOWSHER, daughter of John and Sarah (BROOK) Bowsher, of Parke Co.  Mrs. Weaver was born in Parke Co. in 1838.  Her parents came to the co. in an early day and were residents of the county until their deaths, she dying in 1854, and he in about 1870.  In 1880, Mr. Weaver entered into partnership in the dry goods business with W. P. STANLEY, at Annapolis, having formerly kept the hotel at that place for two years, and by his kind and courteous treatment to his many customers, he has gained many friends.  He has long been a member of the Methodist Church, also a fraternity of Odd Fellows and Masonic lodges.  Taken from: Page292 History of Parke County Indiana ; J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880  

WEBB, Richard T., teacher, Lena, was born September 24, 1854 in Putnam County Indiana and is the son of Charles E. and Fanny (WILEY) Webb, of Putnam Co.  His people are Kentuckians.  Mr. Webb passed his youthful years on the farm, attending the common school in the winter and when older became a student at Asbury Univ. and also spent some time at the Danville Indiana Central Normal School.  Since 18 years of age he has taught in three states: Missouri, Iowa and Ind.  He has traveled in Indiana, Ohio , Virginia, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas and California. He is a democrat and cast his first vote for Samuel J. Tilden.  He is a member of  both the Masonic and Odd Fellows fraternities and has also been connected with the Good Templars organization.  He is at present a teacher in Jackson township.  Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill 

Daniel WEBSTER, one of the wealthy citizens of Bridgeton and the proprietor of the Bridgeton Mills was born in Raccoon Twp, Parke County, Indiana about 3 miles form the village of Bridgeton March 18, 1830.He was next to the youngest of a family of 7 having four brothers and two sisters. His parents were Reuben and Mary MILLER Webster.  We have been able to ascertain but few facts relatives to the ancestry of this family.  We learn, however that Samuel Webster, grandfather of Daniel was a Scotchman and was born in the "land of thistles" whence he emigrated to this country about the close of the Revolutionary War.  Settling in VA he became an extensive planter and mill owner and in the Old Dominion married a lady who was of Irish extraction. Reuben Webster was the youngest in a family of 11 children. He was born in VA about 1792, and when 23 he came to Indiana. During the same year, however, he went back to his early home and there married Miss Mary Miller who was a native of the Old Dominion. She was the daughter of John Miller, whose forefathers were of Old Dutch stock while his wife traced her ancestry to Ireland. It was many generations ago that the miller family  came to this country and settled in PA where some of its representatives became prominent in the Dunkard Church and were able preachers of that faith. Daniel Miller, for whom our subject was named, was no doubt the most prominent of the preachers.  He was a man of great learning and it is said that he was one of the best posted men on the Bible of his day and generation.  A son of his whose name was also Daniel was like his father a learned man and a successful preacher.   In 1818, Reuben Webster and his young wife came to Parke County and settled on a farm south of Bridgeton. There the wife and mother passed away in 1832, when Daniel was but two.  The father survived many years, his demise occurring July 1857.  He had been 3 times married and had in all 14 children - 7 by the first wife; one by the second and six by the 3rd. John, the eldest of this family died in Clay Co in 1890, being then 40.  Samuel passed away in Parke Co about 53 years of age. Reuben is a minister in the Christian Church and resides at Rosedale, Barbara married James Crabb and since his death she has remained on the estate south of Bridgeton.  Rhoda married Joseph Price and lives on the old homestead.  Our subject grew to manhood on his father's farm and as soon as large enough aided in the work of clearing the farm.  His opportunities for obtaining an education were extremely limited in fact he never went to school more than six months, but he has always been a student in the great school of life, and has been an extensive reader and observer.  It is said of him that years ago when he was a large mine-owner, employing hundreds of hands and shipping coal throughout the country and consequently owing large amounts and having large sums due him if he met a man with whom he had business transactions, he could at once tell him how their account stood.  At one time he met a man in St. Louis with whom he was doing business.  The acquaintance remarked: "When you go to your office, send me a statement of my account and I will settle it."  Mr. Webster informed him that he did not have to return to his office in order to secure a statement, as he could tell him then and there how his account stood to a cent. This he could do with all men with whom he had business dealings.  During all the years he was a great mine operator he never had a strike or any trouble with his miners. March 7, 1853, Mr. Webster married Maria, daughter of John HARTMAN, a pioneer of Raccoon Township, where she was born.  She passed from earth in 1858, leaving 3 children, one of whom died in infancy. The others: John, a prominent farmer in Vigo County and Chauncey, a farmer in Parke.  Mr. Webster was married again, choosing as his wife, Miss Nancy, daughter of Edward R. CRABB and a niece of Peter B. Crabb of Raccoon Township.  Four children have been born of this union: Amanda Ellen, now Mrs. Marcellus ANDERSON was graduated from Danville College and received a medical education at the Chicago Medical College and College of Physicians & Surgeons of Cincinnati, Ohio.  For several years prior to her marriage she was a practicing physician.  Annie M, also a graduate of Danville College has quite a reputation as an artist.  She is the wife of Thomas DAVY, County Surveyor, residing at Lincoln, Illinois.  Dovie L. was graduated from Danville College and married Henry ANDERSON a farmer near Rockville.  Della May, who was also educated at Danville, married Oliver BELL and they reside with her parents in Bridgeton.  The early life of Mr. Webster was spent in farming at which he accumulated a competency.  For 15 years he was a resident of Vigo County, and in 1870 he opened up extensive coal mines, which he operated for several years and finally sold at a profit of more than $30,000.  In 1875, after selling his mines, he and his family made a trip to the Pacific Coast and spent some time in travel.  With several others, he organized a gold and silver mining company in Nevada.  This enterprise did not prove as profitable as his coal mines had been, although he still retains his interest in it.  In 1882, he purchased the flouring mill at Bridgeton paying $15,000 in cash for it and since that time has devoted his attention largely to its management. The mill has a capacity of 100 barrel per day and is one of the best in this portion of the state.  In politics, Mr. Webster was formerly a Democrat, but later became a supporter of Prohibition and the People's party.  At one time he made the race for the State Legislature on the Greenback ticket.  He is a strong temperance man and a friend of all enterprises originated for the welfare of the community.  He and his wife are active members of the Baptist Church to the support of which he contributes liberally.  Socially, he is identified with the Masonic fraternity. Aside from the interests mentioned above, he is engaged in various other enterprises and as a businessman has few superiors. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 199

WEBSTER, Thomas C., minister in the Methodist Episcopal church, Bellmore, was born December 11, 1850 in Putnam County, Indiana, five miles from Greencastle.  He is a son of Estham and Sallie (WREN) Webster, who came from Kentucky. to Indiana and are farmers.  Mr. Webster spent his youth on the farm until he entered Russellville Academy, situated at Russellville, Putnam County.  After spending some time here he entered the ministry, passing examination under Dr. Godfrey, who licensed him to preach.  He was ordained deacon by Bishop Wiley, in the fall of 1873, and ordained elder by Bishop Simpson in 1875. He has held appointments at Harmony, Clay County, two years; Clermont one year; Montezuma 3 years and is now working in his second year at Bellmore.  He has received during his ministry between 5 and 600 into the church, married 54 couples and preached many funeral sermons.  he has written a book entitled, "Home Here and Yonder."  a work of merit and good reading for the family.  He treats of this home and that of the future, discoursing upon the marriage relation, husband and wife, how to make home pleasant, parental influence, influence and love of a mother, household sorrows, the heavenly reunion and the heavenly recognition.  He takes an active part in the temperance cause; was a member of the IOGT at Montezuma.  Politically he is conservative, voting for man and not party  He was married September19, 1871 to Miss Bettie PEMBERTON of Putnam County and a native of Kentucky.  Children: Leslie E., living and Marvin H., deceased. 

WELCH, Frank, farmer, Rockville, was born in Rockbridge County, Virginia, November 17, 1841 and is the son of Robert and Susan Ann Welch.  His parents were born near Richmond, Virginia, and were both members of the Methodist Church.  His father died in 1857; his mother in 1856.  Mr. Welch lived in Virginia Till the spring of 1858.  He was married August 7, 1864 to Mary A. ALLEN who was born January 19, 1840 and died March 24, 1880.  She was a member of the Methodist Church, a devoted mother and wife, and an exemplary Christian lady.  They had four children, all of whom are living: Mattie J, Luia A., Willie F., and Alice M.  Mr. Welch was one of the first men who enlisted in the army.  He enlisted under Capt. L. Foote, of Rockville, June 7, 1861 in Co A., 14th Ind. Vols. For 3 years. He went from Indianapolis to Rich Mountain, then fought at Cheat Mountain and there they suffered for the want of clothing.  He fought at Harper's Ferry, Winchester, Woodstock, Harrisonburg, Port Republic and the 7 days' battle in the Chicahominy swamps, under Gen. McClellan.  He fought in the second battle of Manassas, Kearsntown, Cedar River, Gainsville and the bloody battle of Antietam.  In this last battle he was shot in the leg and badly wounded.  He recovered from this wound just before the battle of Fredericksburg, and in this battle he was given a silver medal for bravery shown in crossing the river and clearing the opposite bank of Rebels.  This was  hard contested fight, commanded by Gen. Burnside.  The next battles in which he fought were Chancellorsville, under gen. Hooker and Gettysburg, under Gen. Meade.  In the fall of 1863 Mr. Welch came home to recruit soldiers for the army.  He fought under Gen. Grant in the Wilderness and in every other battle as far as Coal Harbor, and at Spottsylvania Court House.  He was mustered out June 20, 1864.  It will be thus seen that Mr. Welch fought through the very heart of the war, in many of its bloodiest battles, and won for himself imperishable honor as one of the defenders of the Union.  His company had over 100 men when it went out, but returned with only about 27; they buried 7 under one apple tree. Mr. Welch is a class leader in the Methodist church and an active Sunday school worker.  For the last 5 year she has been superintendent of two schools, one in the morning, the other in the afternoon.  Mr. Welch began life without any money, working by the month for several years, but his honesty, frugality, economy and hard work he has accumulated over three hundred acres of land, upon which is a very fine sugar camp.  He raises considerable stock and grain.  In politics he is a decided republican.  He has kept house with his four children since the death of his wife, and is trying to raise them up in the way they should go.  Mr. Welch is a man of integrity, character and modest worth. 

Rev. Frank WELCH, whose residence is on Sec 2, Adams Township Parke County became a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1886, and was licensed to preach on the 9th of Jan 1890, since which time he has been active in the work.  He organized a church in Raccoon Township and has preached there regularly ever since.  He is recognized as an able speaker, being principally known as an evangelist. He holds meetings nearly all the time during the fall and winter and has been very successful as a revivalist. Frequently he is called upon to preach funeral services in different parts of the county and is altogether a worthy representative of the church to which he belongs.  Mr. Welch was born in Rockbridge County, Virginia November 17, 1841 the son of Robert Welch, who was born near Richmond. The latter was reared in Virginia where he married Miss Susan FERRIS.  After this event he removed to Rockbridge County, where he engaged in arming until his death, which occurred 1857, his wife having died the previous year. They had 7 children, 5 grew to maturity: Frank; John; Alexander; Joseph and Nancy.  Until his 17th year our subject remained in his native county, where he received the most of his education, though he went to school soon after coming here. When the war broke out, Mr. Welch was one of the first to respond to the call for troops, enlisting in the 1st company which went from the county as he volunteered in April 1861, in the 14th Indian Infantry of Capt. Foote. For over 3 years he was in service being wounded in the battle of Antietam by a bullet.  He returned to Rockville as Orderly Sgt of his company.  Among the battles he took part in: Fredericksburg, the Battle of the Wilderness; Gettysburg; Spottsylvania and Harrison Landing besides many other important and minor engagements.  Altogether, his army record is one of which he may well be proud, as he was ever found at the post of duty. Returning to Rockville on leaving the army, our subject engaged for a time in working on the farm of Mr. Ott and afterward went into the store of the same gentleman in Rockville where he remained until his marriage, August 11, 1864 to Miss Mary, daughter of James ALLEN, an early settler of the county.  Mrs. Welch was born and reared in Parke County and here her death occurred in March 1876. She was the mother of 4 children, all of whom are living. Mattie is the wife of George STRICKLER, who is a farmer in Cedar County, Iowa; Louie is the wife of Oscar BOOS, a farmer of Adams Township, Willie and Alice reside at home.  After his first marriage Mr. Welch located on the farm where he now lives and of which he afterward became the owner.  November 15, 1881, Miss Mattie SWAIM became the wife of our subject.  Her father, George Swaim lived in Washington Township and was an early settler of the county. Mrs. Welch was a native of Parke Co and was educated in the common schools.  Her two children, Laura and Homer, are attending the schools of the neighborhood. Mrs. Welch owns a fine farm of about 400 acres in one body and his residence is situated in a pleasant spot surrounded by shade trees.  Aside from this homestead, our subject owns a farm of 102 acres in Cedar County, Iowa.  As an agriculturist and stock raiser he has been successful to a marked degree.  He deposits his ballot in favor of the Republican nominees and is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic.  In this locality, where he is so well known, he is much respected and highly thought of. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 236

WELCH, John A., physician, Lena was born April 27, 1849 in Jessamine County Kentucky and is the son of Thomas died and Elizabeth (SPRINGER) Webb, both born in Kentucky, his father in 1816 and died August 29, 1851 and his mother in 1817 and lives in Putnam Co.  His father's people came from Scotland and his mother's from Ireland. In 1859 Mr. Welch, with his mother came to Putnam County where she still lives and where he remained for several years.  He was educated mostly in the common schools, but spent some time at Asbury University.  His medical education was obtained at Rush College, Chicago, in 1869 to 1870.  Upon leaving college he settled in Fillmore for the practice of his profession.  He remained there 3 years, and then removed to Lena where he still practices.  Mr. Welch was married December 15, 1870 to Jennie D. RAGAN daughter of Reuben S. and Jane (MATTHEWS) Ragan.  She was born in Putnam County December 3, 1851.  Her father was born in Kentucky and her mother in Virginia  Mr. and Mrs.. Welch have had four children: Lillian, born April 14, 1872 died November 17, 1876; Earnest, September 2, 1874; Hattie B, September 10, 1876; Edna November 18, 1878 died May 18, 1880.  Mr. Welch has traveled in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Kentucky, Tennessee Alabama, Georgia, Illinois and Missouri.  For several years he was in the drug business in Fillmore In.  He is a member of the Masonic lodge, and at present sr. warden.  Mr. and Mrs.. Welch are members of the Christian Church. Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill 

Porter Clay WELCH, whose literary nom de plume is "Proxy" was born near Jacksonville, Morgan County, Illinois August 6, 1837.  His father's name was John Welch of North Carolina; his mother, Rachel Smith of Tennessee.  His grandparents were all born in America, except grandmother on father's side who was born in Scotland; hence he is descended from Scotch & Welch ancestors on his father's side and English on his mother's.  Although the life of our subject is one full of interesting incidents and deserves to be treated fully, we have but room to give a brief sketch. When about 11 (July 19, 1848) he removed with his father's father to Iowa and settled near the present town of Otley in Marion County.  A year later he removed to near Pella, and remained on a farm until 17; after which he went to work in a steam saw mill and in 1856 when his father sold out, he remained in charge of an extensive lumbering business having as head sawyer, at the first steam mill in Pella and in other places in that locality, sawed more than 2 million feet of the "pick and choice' of the great forests of that vicinity.  All told, he never attended school 12 months as a pupil, but he obtained a fair education by studying at odd hours; he was frugal in his habits, subsisting independently on the earnings of his own hands, working all day and posting books and studying at night. In 1859 he commenced teaching school and in 1860 learned the photographing business, pursuing these at intervals and studying in the meantime for a number of years.  At Knoxville, Iowa July 4, 1861 Mr. Welch was married to Miss Mary Elizabeth Harding, eldest daughter of Mason Harding, of Kentucky (a distant relative of James M. Mason of "Mason and Sidell" fame).  Mrs. Welch was born near Rockville, Parke County, Indiana January 8, 1841 and emigrated (sic) to Iowa with her parents in 1855; they settled near Coalridge, in Marion County where her mother died the following year. Their children: Porter C, born in Pella, June 12, 1862 died January 12, 1864.  Rachel Anna, born in Pella January 12, 1866.  Olla Mary born in Oskaloosa January 28, 1868.  William Francis born in Oskaloosa January 8, 1870. Emma May b there May 28, 1871; Fannie Belle born there May 17, 1874.  Peter Cooper born there February 6, 1877. - The History of Mahaska County, Iowa:  Union Historical Company, 1878, Page 723

WELCH, W. N. , merchant, Annapolis, was born in Parke County, Indiana, April 25, 1844.  His father, John W. Welch, was a native of Ohio  and came to Parke Co. in about 1840, where he married Elizabeth McCLURE, a native of Kentucky, and came to Parke Co. with her parents as early as 1833 or 1835.  Mr. Welch's father died in 1870, and his mother in 1877.  Mr. Welch remained at home, working at various occupations, and received a good business education, having taught three terms of school, and in 1870 he engaged with WP Stanley as clerk in the dry goods business at Annapolis.  After clerking for about two years he purchased the store, but soon after sold an interest to Mr. Stanley.  This firm existed for some time, and after making several changes the firm became Welch & Vickory, which has existed since 1876.  They keep on hand a full line of general merchandise, and by their courteous treatment of their many customers, and honest dealings, they have established a good trade.  In 1878, Mr. Welch was elected trustee of his township, which office he has faithfully filled.  December 28, 1878, he marriage Mary C. MARIS, daughter of Jonathan Maris, who is one of the prominent citizens of Parke Co.  Taken from: Page297 History of Parke County Indiana ; J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880  

WHITE, Ared F., a leading attorney of Parke County, was born May 27, 1843.  His father, Johnson S. White, came to this county from Illinois, and his mother, whose maiden name was Hannah JONES was a native of Ohio .  They were married, it is believed at Montezuma where they resided awhile and then moved to the Bloomfield meeting house, which settlement was afterward called Bloomingdale.  About 1835 they settled in Rockville and became prominently connected with the Methodist church.  Mr. White did not unite with it until a certain great revival, when G. . Wright and many others joined about 1840; but Mrs. White had been a member since she was 13 years old.  Our subject learned the blacksmith's trade when a boy, and afterward worked in his father's sawmill, first running the steam engine and next taking the place of sawyer.  During all the time aspirations for other employment were forming in his mind, and he was laying up money for an education.  At length, with his savings and a little help from his father, he was enabled to make a course of study at Asbury University, where he graduated in 1867.  A portion of his time in his senior year was spent in reading law in the office of the Hon. John HANNA then US district attorney, whose office was at Greencastle.  In the autumn of that year he was admitted to the bar and immediately located at Rockville, and since that time has devoted himself with success to his profession. He was married October 21, 1869 to Miss Sarah C. STROUSE, daughter Samuel Strouse, an early settler in Parke Co.  They have 3 children.  Mr. White was school examiner two terms and in 1874 was elected prosecuting attorney and held the office two years.  On June 17, 1880, he was nominated by the republican state convention for presidential elector for the 8th congressional district.  Mr. and Mrs.. White are communicants in the Methodist church.  The former belongs to the Knights of Pythias.  As a lawyer, Mr. White has acquired a pleasing reputation, which time, it cannot be doubted, will both brighten and enlarge; as a man and citizen none need desire and few could hope to attain, a better one.   

WHITE, Basel, farmer, Armiesburg, is the son of John and Jane (MONTGOMERY) White and grandson of Benjamin White.  He was born November 15, 1815 and at about the age of 13 years he came to Wabash Township, though his parents came one year previous.  Like his father he was reared a farmer, which has always been his occupation, although to some extent he has been engaged in boating on the rivers between here and New Orleans.  February 9, 1836, he marriage Miss Matilda, daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth (KIGER) HUNTER.  She was born in Ohio , but came to Parke Co. when about four years old.  They have 9 children living: Caroline; Eliz. J; John; Mary; Barbara A; Susan; Nancy; Rufus and Charlie.  Mr. White's father died on the old farm in 1874 and his mother is still living and is 85 years old.  Mrs. White's parents came to this county far back in its early history.  Her mother died in the old fort where they were forced to retreat for protection form the savage red men who then held possession of the surrounding country.  Her father was drowned on the bottoms about 60 years ago, while assisting a neighbor in driving some cattle from a small island to the mainland, during an overflow of the Wabash River.  While swimming his horse through some driftwood, he tipped, lost his balance, got under the drift and was not found till the water went down.   

WHITE, Ezekiel BORN, farmer, Lena.  Thomas White was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1731, and while single immigrated to America.  Here he was married and became the father of 21 children, 17 boys and four girls.  He was a tailor by trade, served through the revolution, and afterward held the office of justice of the peace for many years.  Thomas White, Jr., one of the above 17 boys, was born in Philadelphia, on the 13th day of that immortal year 1776.  He became a carpenter by occupation, and March 15, 1808 was married to Elizabeth BRADLEY, who was born in Harrisburg, PA on August 19, 1785.  They lived for many years in their native state and there raised their family.  In the meantime the war of 1812 called Mr. White to defend his country.  On July 16, 1829 in Huntington County, Pa, a son was born to them, whom they called Ezekiel BORN, which name appears at the head of this sketch.  When the boy was 7 years old, in 1836, the Whites emigrated to Lawrenceburg, Indiana  and there Thomas White died February 20, 1848, leaving a wife and five children.  Mrs. Elizabeth White, with her family, now moved to Putnam County Indiana where, December 29, 1855, she died  Ezekiel came to Putnam County in 1851.  On April 23, 1852 he was married to Mary P. NUGENT, daughter of Edward and Elizabeth (PUGH) Nugent, and granddaughter of Thomas Nugent, an early settler and teacher in Union Township, Parke Co.  She was born December 10, 1833.  Her mother died at the age of 84.  Mr. and Mrs.. White came to Parke Co. in 1855, settling in Jackson Township.  Mr. White has farmed chiefly, but has also taught school some time, and later has held the office of school trustee two terms.  He has traveled quite extensively, having visited Virginia, Ohio , Kentucky, Ill, Mo., Tenn., Louisiana and miss, as well as his native state and present home.  From 1847 to 1850 he was engaged in flat boating on the Ohio  and Miss rivers.  They have had 13 children: Mary e, born March 12, 1853; Nancy M, October 27, 1854; Sarah N, June 23, 1856; Lucy M, March 27, 1858; Ruth I, May 17, 1860; James E, June 17, 1862 and died September. 16, 1862; Matilda W, August 5, 1863; Henry S, December 11, 1854; Martha A, October 1, 1868; John Denman, December3, 1869; Lena A, October 18, 1871; Lydia E, July 12, 1873; Joseph M, May 24, 1876 and died September 24, 1879.  Mr. White is a thorough democrat.  Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill   Ezekiel BORN WHITE, grandson of Thomas White of Revolutionary fame, was born July 16, 1829 in Huntington County, Pa.  Mr. White and his wife, Mary NUGENT White came to Jackson Township, Parke County in 1855, where he taught several terms of school and served as trustee two terms.  Mr. White was one of the pioneer thresher men of Parke County, owning one of the first traction machines in this part of Indiana .  Mr. White traveled extensively and visited most of the states in the Miss. Valley.  He made several trips down the Ohio  and Ms. Rivers on Flat Boats.  He was the father of 13 children, 11 of whom are now alive.  White died December3, 1890.  (Note: there is a picture  -- Historical Sketch of Parke County,  Parke Co. Indiana Centennial Memorial, 1816-1916 p 111).  

WHITE, Truman S., merchant, Lena, was born September 27, 1851 in Clay County Indiana and is the son of Granville & Eveline (SMITH) Fuller.  His brother, William H. White is noticed elsewhere .  Mr. White worked in a pottery when young, and at the age of 14 began work in a saw mill in which he became engineer and continued this till 19 years of age.  He taught school a short time, having been well fitted for this work by attendance at the Bowling Green HS especially for teachers.  he then engaged in merchandising in Lena, In.  In 1875 the firm became Fuller & White, these gentlemen having bought the interest of W. H. White.  In a year and a half more Mr. White sold to Fuller, and opened the store which he now occupies.  He handles a general stock, including groceries, school books, patent medicines, etc.  Mr. White is a prominent member of the Christian church, having been elder for several years.  He is also connected with the Masonic order of Lena and is a republican.  October 3, 1879 he was appointed postmaster and still holds that office, as well as the office of notary public.  He was married September 25, 1872 to Ellen Rowley, daughter of John and Nancy J. (TORR) ROWLEY.  She died April 7, 1874. They had one child, who was born March 25, 1874 and died march 9, 1875.  Mr. White was then married to Anna ROWLEY, a sister of his former wife, August 28, 1876.  She was born April 16, 1856.  They have one child, Oscar, who was born December 23, 1879.  Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill 

WHITE, William H.,  lumber manufacturer and farmer, Lena was born near Middlebury, Clay County Indiana April 13, 1849 and is the son of Granville and Eveline (SMITH) White, now Mrs. DF FULLER.  The Smiths were formerly Scottish noblemen, whose property was confiscated when England subdued Scotland.  Mr. White's grandfather Smith could repeat Walter Scott's poems continually, the writer of which all Scotchmen love.  Mr. White's mother, Mrs. Fuller, was born in Vermont, and his father, Granville White in Kentucky and the parents of the latter came from England.  Mr. White labored, when a boy, in a pottery.  At the age of 14 he enlisted in Co G 149th Indiana Volunteers, under Capt. Hill and Col. Ruckle.  He was the boy soldier, being the youngest of his company.  At Nashville he lay sick with the measles and September 5, 1865 was discharged at Nashville TN.  He returned to his home, then went with his uncle to Ill, where he clerked from 1865 to 1866 in a general merchandising store in the town of Neoga.  In 1867 he ran a peddler wagon through the country, and in the fall of that year ret. home.  He now farmed and teamed but in 1868 embarked in the manufacture of lumber buying for the purpose in connection with DF Fuller, a portable engine, etc., which he first stationed in Clay Co.  in 1869 he moved to Parke County and since then he has carried on this business mostly in Jackson Township.  He began merchandising in July 1874 in the town of Lena being a member of the firm of Fuller, White & Company. In 1878 he sold his store interest and engaged in farming, which, with his milling, he now oversees.  He was married February 1, 1872 to Martha E, daughter of Isaiah and Margaret (WILLIAMS) MURPHY. She was born February 14, 1852.   They have 4 children: Claude L, born November 6, 1872; Cora May April 5, 1875; Della G October 18, 1876 and William O., June 5, 1879.  Mr. White has traveled in Tenn., Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri and Illinois.   He has been a member of the Masonic fraternity for several years.  He represented Lena Lodge in the grand lodge when the charter for the former was granted.  He has served as Sr. warden for one year, and is now worshipful master, which office he has held for two years.  he is a republican and a live, energetic citizen.  Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill 

WHITE, William J., recorder of Parke County, Rockville, was born July 29, 1850 and was the third son of Johnson S. And Hannah (JONES) White.  He was reared in the country, his labors being divided between work on a farm and in a sawmill which his father owned and operated.  His education was limited to the common schools.  In 1871 Mr. White became deputy county recorder and made his home in Rockville.   In 1874 he was elected recorder on the republican ticket and in 1878 reelected.  On November 12, 1874, he was married to Miss Martha Jane MILLER, daughter James N. Miller who was born and raised in Parke Co.  Mrs. White was born January 31, 1854.   They have one son and one daughter: Mable born September 25, 1875 and Hubert born September 2, 1877.  Mr. W. Is an Odd Fellow, a K of P, has passed the degree of Entered Apprentice in the Masonic order and both he and his wife are members of the Methodist church.  Mr. W's father was a native of Ohio ; he settled in Southern Illinois, where he learned the trade of blacksmithing, and subsequently, about 1843, came to Montezuma in this county where he was married  Soon afterward he settled in Rockville, where all his children were born  There were 7 of these,, six of whom are living.  The Whites were one of the most valuable and respected families that ever settle din Parke Co.  The father of our subj. United with the Methodist Episcopal church during a revival of great interest and power, which is a landmark in the history of that society.  Gov. WRIGHT also joined at that time. 

The Honorable Greeley Webster WHITFORD, a justice of the Supreme Court of the state of Colorado and lawyer of 40 years' standing in Denver was born in Rockville, Parke County, Indiana June 5, 1856.  His parents were John Washington and Jane Harlan Whitford, the latter of whom was a native of Parke County and sister of the Honorable James Harlan who was elected U. S. Senator from Iowa and in 1865 was appointed secretary of the interior by President Lincoln.  John W. Whitford was born in Allegany County, New York and became a lawyer. The Whitfords of this line in America date from the coming in 1680 of Pasco Whitford who settled in Rhode Island.  Greeley W. Whitford was educated in Iowa Wesleyan College, 1882 was admitted to the bar of Iowa. He practiced for a brief period in that state and in 1884 went to Whatcom (now Bellingham) then in the territory of Washington where he followed his profession until 1887 when he came to Colorado. He located in Denver and practiced for a time with his brother, Clay B. Whitford, afterward becoming a member of the law firm of Rogers, Shafrath  & Whitford.  He was later associated with F. A. Williams and the business was conducted under the style of Williams & Whitford.  In 1894 he was elected district attorney and in 1897 was appointed by President McKinley to the office of U. S. District Attorney for Colorado.  In 1906 he was elected district judge for the six year term. He was reelected in 1918 and 1920 was elected associate justice of the state supreme court for a term of 10 years.  Judge Whitford has been twice married.  On June 4, 1890 at Mount Pleasant, Iowa he was united in marriage to Miss Ida Spaulding, a daughter of Rev. W. J. Spaulding and they became the parents of 3 children: Ken S, who married Marie Garrison; Ruth the wife of John C. Kepner and Helen, now Mrs. Paul S. Myers.  The mother of these children died in 1916 and on September  28, 1917 Judge Whitford was married in Denver to Mrs. Edith F. Whitford, the widow of his brother, Clay B. Whitford who left two daughters.  Winifred, the elder is the wife of Richard J. Pinkett and her sister, Eleanor married Albert J. Gould, Jr.  Judge Whitford is a Republican his political views and a Methodist in religious faith.  He is a member of most of the Masonic bodies and also belongs to the Knights of Pythias and to Beta Theta Pi a college fraternity. - History of Colorado.  Denver: Linderman Company, 1927, Page 622

Peoria Irwin WHITTED son of William and Armena Howard Whitted was born in Williamsport, Tennessee February 29, 1832.  He married in Audubon County on February 28, 1860 Louise C, daughter of Levi B and Fannie Boyls Montgomery and who was born in Hancock County, Illinois. Mr. Whitted accompanied his parents to Vigo County, Indiana thence to Parke County,  Indiana in 1833; to Vermilion County, Indiana 1838 to Keokuk Iowa 1845 to Muscatine and Ottumwa Iowa in 1850 to Santa Fe, New Mexico in 1851 whence he returned to Iowa City. In 1853 he came to Hamlin's Grove, Iowa.  In the spring of 1857 he came to Exira, where he lived the remainder of his life. He was a Democrat, a member of the Christian Church and an Odd Fellow. He was elected county surveyor 1855 and held the office many years; deputy sheriff in 1869 and assessor for several years.  He was a prominent man and is frequently mentioned in this work.  He died at Exira December 29, 1907.  His children were: John Clinton married Hester Coglin; Florence May married Albert L. Sewell; Minnie Arena, married James D. Barber; Forest Bates married Mabel Dickay; Elbridge Irving married Blanche Myers; Carlton Calm married Mildred Bechfold; Clara Bell married Nels Johnson.  - Andrews, H. Franklin.  History of Audubon County, Iowa.  Indianapolis, Ind.: B.F. Bowen & Co., 1915, Page 113

Levi WILCOX, who owns a large and well-managed farm on Section 8, Ripley Township, is an old citizen of this section who is well known and favorably spoken of throughout Montgomery County.  He was born in Butler County, Ohio in 1823 into the pioneer home of Peter Wilcox. When a lad of 10, his father, who was a native of Maryland, came with his family to this county in 1833, as one of its pioneers.  He bought land from the Government east of the present village of Yountsville, and at the time of his death in 1878, he owned a large and well-improved farm.  He had 3 sons and 2 daughters. Daniel, the eldest, married Mary Ann, the daughter of Conrad Smith; Mary, who was born May 29, 1827, was married first to William causer, who died and she then became the wife of Conrad Smith; Susanna, who was born March 15, 1832 died April 8, 1875 in Illinois; John, a farmer, was born September 29, 1834; and our subject completes the family. Our subject has given his attention to agriculture from his early youth and has made it a profitable pursuit. After his marriage in 1852, he rented land for farming purposes two miles south of Crawfordsville.  A year later he purchased 80 acres of land of Robert Smith, paying $20 an acre for it. He resided upon that place 10 years and then bought his farm in Ripley Township, upon which he has since lived.  It is of goodly dimensions, the soil is rich and well tilled, and much of it is admirably adapted for grazing purposes, and a fine class of stock is raised in its pastures.  The buildings are substantial and well kept, and ample machinery lightens the labor of the farm.  Mr. Wilcox was married in 1852 to Miss Ella Smith, daughter of Robert and Hannah Smith, and granddaughter of Robert Smith, a native of NC and a Revolutionary War Soldier. Mrs. Wilcox had two brothers and two sisters, all of whom were born in Ohio, namely: Hiram the eldest; Elizabeth, deceased; Joseph who married Martha Goss; and Margaret who married Warren Davis and who resides 4 miles south of Crawfordsville.  Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox have had 7 children: Alice, born January 15, 1853 and married tin 1878 to James Gilty of Ripley Township; Howard who was born in 1855, married Miss Lula Derwall, and die din 1890 from the effects of a gunshot wound; Hannah, who was born January 11, 1859 and married Joseph Taylor of this township; Mary who was born April 6, 1861 and is the wife of William Clark of Crawfordsville; Oscar who was born May 1, 1863 married Julia Holman and died February 13, 1891; Dora who was born July 5, 1865 and is the wife of Charles Meeker, a commercial traveler and resident of LaFayette; and Laura, who is the wife of Charles Watterbury, a commercial traveler, residing in Crawfordsville.    Mr. Wilcox is a man of good habits and character and he and his estimable wife are worthy of the esteem accorded to them.  He gives cheerfully of his means in support of the church and all good objects that are brought under his notice.  Politically, he is found with the Democrats.  Since the above was written, Mrs. Wilcox has been called hence, her death occurring October 25, 1892.  - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893) Page 609

WILDMAN, John, farmer and stock raiser, Rockville, is one of Parke County's wide-awake business men.  Besides being a farmer and stock raiser, he has the oldest and largest nursery in Wabash Township or in that part of Parke County, it having been started by his father about 40 years ago and for the last 14 years has been under his own care and supervision.  Mr. Wildman is turning his attention to breeding and raising graded Holstein cattle.  December 23, 1870 he marriage Miss Rachel DIXON and they have two children: Lydia, born July 10, 1872; Orvil, born July 2, 1874.  His father, William Wildman, was born in Virginia August 8, 1804.  His mother, Amy (WOODY) Wildman, was a native of Ohio .  They were marriage in Parke County in 1841.  Mr. and Mrs.. Elwood Dixon, parents of Mrs. Wildman were born in North Carolina and were early settlers in Parke County. 

Dr. G. W. WILKINSON in the spring time of his life sought a home in the great west and hearing glowing accounts of the wonderful beauty and fertility of Dakota County thitherward he bent his steps, landing here in the spring of 1858 in old Omadi where he practiced medicine and taught school.  When the war clouds hovered over out land he joined the 1st Nebraska cavalry and was commissioned surgeon. After serving to the close of the war he again chose Dakota County as his home.  Was appointed physician for the Winnebago Indians which position he held two years.  Was appointed Register of the United States Land Office at Dakota City in 1870 and held the office 5 years.  In the fall of 1881, was appointed united State Indian Agent for the Omaha and Winnebago Agencies and served 4 y ears. Was County Treasurer 8 years. Married Hattie Mathewson in Norfolk at the residence of her father, Col. Matthewson on Thursday October 15, 1874 by Rev. Mr. Kidder.  Has two children Lyle and Ned.  In the spring of 1890 was appointed by Governor Thayer as Superintendent of the Norfolk Insane Asylum.  He was born in Parke County, Indian and attended the Indiana Asbury University.  After finishing a course there entered Rush Medical College, Chicago where he graduated in 1857. His career in Dakota County has indeed been marked with a spirit of enterprise.  In all the years since pioneer times he has ever taken an active interest in the welfare of Dakota County.  Looking backward over the years that have passed away we see his handiwork stamped upon the efforts of every public movement. Hand in hand down through the years he has marched with the progress and prosperity of our county. Is at present living at Norfolk.    - Warner, M. M.  History of Dakota County, Nebraska.  Lyons: Lyons Mirror Job Office, 1893, Page 240.   "Settlers of 1853  

J. H. WILKINSON, M. D., Edwards Station is a son of Joseph and Eliza Wilkinson, nee Harlon and was born in Warren County, Ohio July 20, 1823. In 1828, his parents removed to Indiana and settled in Parke County where he worked on his father's farm until his 16th year at which time he entered Indiana Asbury University at Greencastle where he spent 5 years teaching school at intervals as a means of support.  Soon after passing his 21st birthday, he commenced the study of medicine with Drs. Allen and Weaver at Rockville, Parke County; attended lectures at the Louisville Medical College and graduated in 3 years.  In 1848, he came to Kickapoo village and commenced practice, which he successfully prosecuted for 30 years when he retired to take general management and oversight of his farms, coal mines and store at Edwards Station.  He owns about 1,000 acres of valuable farm and coal land, the average value about $75 per acre.  He married Miss Isadore E. Edwards, daughter of Thomas and Elenor Edwards, nee Scott who was born in Hampshire County Virginia May 19, 1829. Her parents came to what is now Rosefield Township in spring of 1835.  Dr. and Mrs. Wilkinson have no children.  They are members of the ME Church and active Sabbath School and temperance workers. Politically, he is a Republican.  - The History of Peoria County, Illinois.  Chicago: Johnson 1880, Page 785

WILKSON, Dr. J. E. - Physician and surgeon.  Born in Parke County, Indiana on October 27, 1906 of Scotch-Irish parentage to J. E.  and Lula Blanche Connelly Wilkson; paternal grandfather Robert Wilkson; maternal grandparents were Joel and Gertrude Christician Connelly; educated in public schools of Indiana; Wabash College, BS 1926; Vanderbilt, Mississippi 1927; Vanderbilt Medical College, MD 1931. Member of Democratic Party; medical societies; MWA; WOW. Dr. Wilkson is one of Robertson County's leading surgeons and physicians, taking an active interest also in all civic affairs.  He takes an active part in all medical societies and has a large practice.  He married Miss Florence Moore on September 6, 1931.  His hobby is coin-collecting.  - Prominent Tennesseans, Lewisburg, Tennessee Who's Who Publishing, 1940, Page 261

WILLIAMS, Allen, carpenter, Rosedale, one of Florida's most prominent and enterprising citizens, was born In Rockcastle County Kentucky.  His father, Hezekiah Williams was born And raised in this county and came to Parke County in September1841 and settled on what is now known as the DOTY farm.  He died in Florida Township September1845.  His mother, Nancy OWENS died about six hours after his father.  Both were buried in the BOATMAN graveyard.  They were married in Kentucky, and became the parents of six children.  After his father's death, which occurred when Mr. Williams was but 8 year sold, he lived with John M. Doty until he arrived at the age of 14 at which time he commenced working for various farmers in the community by the month and continued until he was 19 years old, when he moved upon the place now occupied by himself and family.  He enlisted at Terre Haute in the 71st Ind. Vol. Inf. Co G afterward changed to 6th Calvary. And was mustered out June 18, 1865 at Pulaski, TN.  His first engagement was Richmond Kentucky and from here was engaged in skirmishing through eastern Tenn.  At Macomb, GA on the Stoneman raid, he was captured and was marched hatless and shoeless 75 miles to Atlanta from which place they were sent to Andersonville prison and confined one month.  From Andersonville they were sent to Charleston SC where they were put under the fire of Union guns 48 hours; but owing to Providence and the understanding our men finally obtained of the situation most of them were spared to be shipped to Florence to be confined 3 months longer.  When they were paroled they were sent to Annapolis and from there home, from home to Camp Chase and from Champ Chase to Pulaski, TN.  He was married March 16, 1856 in Florida Township to Sarah COX daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth, prominent settlers in that neighborhood.  By this union they have been blessed with 9 children 7 of whom are living: Susannah, William A, Nancy J, Catharine, Samuel A, David, Emma, Elizabeth J and Ida May.  Mr. Williams and his wife are members of the Christian Church.  He is one of the present elders.  He is one of those republicans who never falter, but are always ready to defend their party's principles.  He cast his first presidential vote for A. Lincoln.    

WILLIAMS, William H., clergyman, Lena, was born September 10, 1844 in Florida Township, Parke County Indiana.  His parents, Hezekiah and Nancy (OWENS) Williams were Kentuckians, but his grandparents were from Virginia  His father was an active Whig and a man of strict integrity and good intellect.  His mother was a member of the Christian Church.  Mr. Williams' parents came to Florida Township. with their four children: James, Allen, Hiram and Hezekiah.  In 1846, a terrible accident happened to three members of this family.  The father and mother and eldest boy being unwell, a young physician was called, who is supposed to have given them poison by mistake.  At 12 o'clock, noon, the father died; by four or five o'clock in the evening the mother too was a corpse and before 9 in the evening of the same day the eldest boy lay dead.  The three corpses in one family brought gloom upon the neighborhood, and left children to the cold sympathies of the world.  The dead were buried  in the Boatman graveyard, followed by the grave by an immense procession.  William H. was now two years old, and was taken to the home of his aunt Martha till he was 5 years of age.  He spent 3 years with his Aunt Sally BUSY.  From 8 to 11 years old, he lived with Adam KENTNER, near Urbana, Illinois.   Spent one year with Egbert SPENCER, one year with Daniel FISHER, next one and a half years with Michael BAUGH, one and a half years with John COTTRELL and then with A. J. . COLEY one year; all of this region of country.  Thus was the orphan's life spent till 17 years of age, when July 21, 1861, he enlisted in Co. C., 11th Ind. Volunteers, under Capt. HAMEL and Col. Lew WALLACE.  He fought at Ft. Henry and Ft. Donelson and in 1862 was sent home on account of sickness.  He remained at home from February to July, when he reenlisted in Co. G. 71st Indiana Vol., under Capt. Wallace McCUNE, and was at the engagement of Richmond.  In February 1863, was transferred to the regular army, 5th US Calvary. Co. under Capt. William McClain and served two and a half years.  He participated at Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Kittle Run, Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Petersburg, Deep Bottom, second battle of Winchester, Cedar Creek, and his discharge enumerates 18 battles in which he fought.  Mr. Williams was second Sergeant. in the regular army, and also acted as drill master for Co. G. for 6 months.  He was discharged August 9, 1865 and ret. to Parke Co. September. 5, 1865, he was married to Elizabeth COX, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (WELCHER) Cox; the fruits of which marriage were 3 children: George W, Charles and Hiram.  Mrs. Williams died February 3, 1873.  Mr. Williams, August 23, 1873, married Martha J. WILLOUGHBY, daughter of Preston and Nancy (HOWARD) Willoughby, and they have two children: Hezekiah P. and Mary c.  Mr. Williams entered the ministry of the Christian Church in 1873, and has been engaged in the work at New Goshen, Lodi, Brazil, Rockville, two appointments in Fountain County; at Liberty church, Vigo County; also in Illinois.   He is positively republican, having earned his right of suffrage by four years of war's hardships, endurances and triumphs.  Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill 

M. J. WILLIAMS, physician and surgeon, Cherryvale, was born in Parke County, Ind., August 25, 1854. He received a good common school education in the public schools of his native place, and engaged in a thorough literary course at Bloomingdale Academy where he spent four years in study. At the age of twenty-three he engaged at the study of his profession at Stilesville, under the preceptor ship of Dr. J. N. Green, and after a thorough course of three years' study, graduated from the Medical College of Indiana, at Indianapolis, March 3, 1881. He then located at Kempton, Ind., and carried on this practice successfully till March of the present year when he located here. He is and active member of the I. O. O. F. society.  - William G. Cutler's History of the State of Kansas, published in 1883 by A. T. Andreas, Chicago, IL – Montgomery County, Part 13

WILLIAMSON, William N. M.D., physician, Russell's Mills, is a native of Parke County, having been born in Liberty township in 1854, his parents, James and Mary (Rardin) Williamson having settled there at a very early day.  His early education was obtained at the district school, and later he spent 3 years at the Indiana Medical College, Indianapolis, from which he graduated in 1879.  Until he was 16 years of age he worked on the farm, then taught school and read medicine, moving in 1877 to Sugar Creek township, locating at Grangeburg, where he began the practice of medicine, and by skill, close attention to business, and superior medical knowledge, he has won the confidence of the people and is building up an extensive and lucrative practice.  He married, in October 1873, Miss Mary Dickens, a native of Virginia, who has borne him three children, Alvis A; Cora M; and Florence.  The doctor is a member of Parke Lodge, No 498, IOOF and belongs to the Republic party.  Taken from: 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana by J. H.  Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers.   

Rev. William WILMER.  This popular and much esteemed minister of the Gospel resides in Attica and presides over the Presbyterian congregation sin that city and in Williamsport.  He was born 4 miles from Cincinnati, Ohio on 19 October 1838, and is a son of Henry L. and Mary  Brown Wilmer, natives of Maryland and New Jersey respectively, the father born in Baltimore and mother in Salem, near Philadelphia.  When 21 the father went to Cincinnati, purchased a farm near that city and to this brought his bride.  They resided on this farm for 60 years, or until they were aged people.  Honorable and upright, they were highly esteemed by all who were favored with their acquaintance.  William Wilmer remained on his father's farm until 17 and graduated from Farmer's College near his old home in the class of 1860.  He had to depend mainly on his own exertions for an education and taught school for the means to take him through college.  In the year 1860,after graduating, he taught the full year near his home, after which he entered the seminary at Auburn, NY.  Later he returned to Cincinnati and entered Lane Seminary where he completed the course in the class of 1864.  He is an alumnus of each of these institutions and has recently attended commencement exercises at Lane.  Mr. Wilmer's first pulpit work was during his vacation in 1863 at Rockville, Parke County, Indiana where he was associated with Rev. John Hawkes, one of the best known ministers of Western Indiana. After graduating, he accepted a pastorate at Montezuma, Indiana in the Crawfordsville Presbytery where he was ordained in Sept. 1865.  After spending two and a half years at Montezuma he had charge of the church at Monticello for one year. The year following was devoted to the Home Mission Work at Carroll County, Indiana.  In 1869 he assumed charge of the church at Williamsport to which he devoted two years exclusively, when he was asked to include the church at Attica in his charge. The latter church was not in a very prosperous condition at that time, and it was through his exertions and business tact that its condition was bettered.  He entered upon the double duty with misgivings but the result has shown the wisdom of the course.  For 20 years Mr. Wilmer has preached alternately at each church and during that time he has given faithful attention to every detail in business matters, has preferred sound advice and instruction to his auditors, and has cultivated relations of close, faithful friendship with his parishioners.  He has strengthened and improved the two churches in every way.  While it was at first intended that the arrangement be a temporary one, it has never been though advisable for either party to separate since. The membership in each church has kept pace with the growth of the country and a new church building has been erected at Williamsport.  Both churches are in fine healthy financial condition and the people take an active interest in both the church and its pastor. He has been instrumental in bringing many to the feet of Christ and is a man of strong will, clear conceptions, generous impulses and fine sensibilities that make him scrupulously tender of the rights of others.  Mr. Wilmer's sermons are filled with earnest religious appeals, biblical citations, historic references, poetic gems and sincere reasoning. He is a most pleasant gentleman to meet and is universally popular with his congregation.  His constant ministrations to his people for 20 years has endeared him to their hearts in ties of the closest friendship and love. Mr. Wilmer is a man of liberal views.  Though not in sympathy with the radical ideas of such men as Dr. Briggs he is in full accord with those who have worked for the modification and revision of the Presbyterian articles. He is not given to extreme views and while a strict Prohibitionist, he does not believe that the best results can be obtained through the Prohibition party.  In personal appearance Mr. Wilmer is tall, has a vigorous body and a fine open countenance. He was married in May 1865 to Miss Kate F. Wood, one of his former pupils. She died on the 25th of January 1873 at Williamsport. On 18 September 1875 he united in marriage to Miss Lizzie K. Peabody, a classmate of his first wife at Oxford Seminary, Ohio.  Miss Peabody was born in Henneker, New Hampshire and is the daughter of a prominent physician of that place.  Mr. and Mrs. Wilmer are the parents of one child, now deceased and two daughters, Edna and Lizzie, both of whom graduated at the Western Female Seminary at Oxford, Ohio the former in the class of 1886 the latter in 1888. Both are teachers and very intelligent young ladies. They are by the first wife.  -  Portrait & Biographical Record, Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana., Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 480 – shared by Karen Zach

WILSON, E.G., is one of the leading dry goods merchants of Montezuma.  He is of Scotch-Irish descent and was born in Quebec, Canada, in 1835.  He is the son of James and Jane L. Wilson, who removed to Parke County, Indiana in 1839, and located at Armiesburg.  Mr. Wilson's father, being a  millwright by trade, helped to build the gristmill now owned by Judge PATTERSON at Armiesburg.  Mr. Wilson, having a desire to become a merchant, came to Montezuma and engaged as clerk with Mrs. BENSON & DAVIS, for whom he clerked 7 years.  In that length of time he became acquainted with the mercantile business, and in 1859, he and his brother embarked in the dry goods business.  They continued in business together until 1864, after which Mr. Wilson bought out his brother and has since carried on the business himself.  He began in life without anything but a natural business qualification backed up by energy and a determination to succeed, and today he is considered to be among the substantial business men of the county.  In 1856 he was married to Elizabeth SKELITON, daughter of Robert and Susan Skeliton.   (Beadle, J. H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers reprinted 1977 by The Bookmark, Knightstown Indiana ).   -  WILSON, Edward G., deceased, was born in Quebec, Canada in 1835 and moved to Armiesburg in 1839.  When a young man he became a clerk in the store of BENSON & DAVIS at Montezuma.  In 1859, he went into the dry goods business, which he continued until his death.  He was a self-made man of good business ability, and with energy and honesty made a success.  (Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke County Atlas of  Indiana  Centennial, 1816-1916, Page117)

WILSON, E.G., who was for 40 years one of Montezuma's most enterprising citizens, began business as a clerk for Benson & Davis.  After some years service he had acquired a thorough knowledge of business and had accumulated sufficient capital to embark in an enterprise of his own direction.  In 1859, he and his brother started a general store in Montezuma, continuing the partnership until 186 4.  Mr. Wilson was for many years one of the best known of the successful merchants of the county.  (Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke County Atlas of  Indiana  Centennial, 1816-1916, Page27) 

Rachel WILSON married Owen SMITH in 1839 and moved to Montezuma, Indiana. She died in 1873, aged 57 years. Their daughter, Minerva Louise, married Phelmon McCall GIBBONY in 1875. James Wells WILSON married Rose Ann WOLF of Pickaway County, Ohio. Mr. Wilson owns the old Wolf farm and other good land beside, in that county. It is cultivated by his thrifty sons. Mr. Wilson owns a splendid farm in Greenfield and one in Berne, this county. He is one of the sturdy, industrious old farmers, who have come down to us from a former generation, bringing with him the good old habits of the early days -- a plain, honest, straightforward man, who attends to his own business and knows very well how to go about it. He has prospered and is independent but he is the same James W. Wilson that we knew long ago - a plain, unassuming old man. He is an intelligent man, and can tell what he knows in very good English. His sons are good farmers and good citizens. William Harvey Wilson married Mary Skeeters in 1844; they lived at Montezuma, Indiana. He died in 1862 aged 41.  - Wiseman, C. M. L. Pioneer period and pioneer people of Fairfield County, Ohio. Columbus, Ohio: F. J. Heer Printing Co., 1901, Page 275

WIMMER, Henry C, carpenter, Bridgeton, was born in Parke County April 28, 1843 and is the son of Jacob and Elizabeth Wimmer.  His father and mother came from Virginia to Parke County in about 1819.  They came 700 miles on horseback.  They were both members of the Methodist Church.  Mr. Wimmer lived on the farm till he was 15 years old, and had a common school education.  He then learned the carpenter trade and followed it until September23, 1862 when he enlisted in Co E Western Sharpshooters.  He served in the 16th Army Corps 4th Div commanded by Gen OGLESBY.  He fought at Corinth, Pulaski, Columbia, Franklin, Nashville and Stone River.  He was mustered out June 29, 1865.  After the war he worked at general carpentering on railroads in Ill, Iowa, Indiana and Mo.  He then began work in the vicinity of Bridgeton, where he has since continued.  Mr. Wimmer was marriage August 14, 1862 to Ellen BARTLET.  She was born May 9, 1843.  They have had 3 children: Alfred M, born June 14, 1866; Jeraldine, February 6, 1868;p Emma F June 7, 1872diedin the fall of 1878.  Mr. Wimmer is a Mason, a republican and an honest, good-natured gentleman. 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 

Aaron J. WOLFE was born in Armiesburg, Parke County, Indiana in 1854 and there resided until 1856.  He received a liberal education in the common schools and in the Academy in Waveland. His father, Henry Wolfe was a native of Pennsylvania, in which state he married afterward moving to Indiana.  Soon after locating here the wife died, leaving a family of 7 children to miss her watchful care and gentle love.  The mother of our subject was Miss Sarah F. Johnson a lady of most estimable character.  After the father came to Indiana he followed the business of contractor and bridge builder until 1860, at which time he purchased land and commenced the life of a farmer.  Aaron Wolfe dates his residence in this his county back to 1859. After attaining to years which necessitated his learning something of the practical side of life, he took a position as clerk in a store, where he remained until 1881. When 27 he concluded to start in business for himself and with that end in view purchased a saw mill in Waveland. His first venture was a crowning success, and now his mill produces from 2 to 3 million feet of lumber per year.  In the year 1873, he was united in marriage to Mrs. Martha M. KELSO a daughter of David M. HUMPHREY.  This lady was native of Montgomery County and is held in high esteem by all who have the pleasure of her acquaintance.  To Mr. and Mrs. Wolfe have been born 7 children, 4 of whom died in infancy. The three living: Bessie, Pina and Blanche all interesting and intelligent. Mr. and Mrs. Wolfe have also reared and educated Fannie B. Hastings, a niece of Mr. Wolfe.  A stepson, Reese D. Kelso, is a graduate of Rush Medical College, Chicago.  He is a practicing physician of Waveland and is getting a good share of the practice of the village and surrounding country.  Politically, Mr. Wolfe stands by the grand old Democratic Party and is a firm believer in the success of its leaders.  He has been identified with the worthy interests of this town for many years and is looked on as a model citizen in every respect.  His career in municipal politics is a strong illustration of the office seeking the man and for 3 years he has held the position of Village Clerk in which capacity he has served with honor to himself and satisfaction to his constituents.  He has also served as Trustee on the Village School Board and in 1890 was elected Township Trustee which office he was asked to fill for four years.  Mr. Wolfe is distinguished for the attributes characteristic of a good citizen and his career has been marked from early years by the exhibition of loyalty and patriotism. He has a high personal standing in the town of Waveland as he is liberal in his ideas and opinions, granting to those who differ from him the same rights of _expression which he personally demands. Both he and his wife are prominent and active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and noted for the liberal discrimination with which they dispense their aid to the needy. Socially, Mr. Wolfe is a Knight of Pythias and at the same time enjoys an honorable membership in the Ancient Order of United Workmen.  He is mild and affable in manner and a man who naturally draws around him hosts of friends numbering among them the most prominent and cultured people in the community. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 215

Fred B. Woodard was born near Bloomingdale, in Parke County, Indiana, October 21, 1871. His parents were William Penn and Martha Ellen (Kelley) Woodard. His father was also born in Parke County, Indiana, on a farm that Grandfather Thomas Woodard had entered direct from the Government. Thomas Woodard came from South Carolina, and was one of the number' of freighters who founded a settlement in Western Indiana. Thomas Woodard was of English ancestry and spent his life as a farmer. William P. Woodard was both a merchant and farmer, and died in 1887 at the age of forty-seven years. His brother, John E., of Bloomingdale, was for several terms a member of the Indiana State Legislature. Mr. Woodard's mother was also born in Parke County, Indiana, and for the past ten years has lived at Dewey. Her father, Robert L. Kelley, represented Parke County in the Indiana Legislature for several terms, and his son, Robert L., Jr., is now president of the fine old Quaker college, Earlham, at Richmond. Indiana. Fred B. Woodard was one of five sons and three daughters: Ida M., wife of Col. A. H. Norwood, the well-known publisher and business man of Dewey; John T., of Dewey; Fred B.; C. Earl, also of Dewey; Elmo; Herbert, a teacher of manual training in Detroit, Michigan; and two that are deceased, Lawrence and Allie.  When he was nine years of age, Fred B. WUlard accompanied his parents to Douglas County, Kansas, and after four years in the country the family removed to the City of Lawrence, where he grew to manhood. He spent one year in the University of Kansas at Lawrence, and in 1898 came to Claremore, Oklahoma, and from there to Washington County, in 1899. In 1902, Mr Woodard was admitted to the bar and has since developed a large general practice in Washington County. For one year after being admitted to the bar, in 1903-04, he lived in Old Mexico, near Guymas, where he still owns some irrigated farm lands. He is also interested in the oil business.  Mr. Woodard is a republican, and was twice a candidate on the minority party ticket for the office of county judge. In 1900 he was a delegate to the republican convention at Purcell, with William Brentz, and they represented a district that is now cut up into half a dozen counties. For five years, from 1900 to 1905, Mr. Woodard was assistant to Richard C. Adams, of Washington, D. C., in handling a number of legal and business matters in connection with the Delaware tribe of Indians in the Cherokee Nation. Mr. Woodard was qualified for the practice of law when he came to Oklahoma, but deferred taking his examination largely on account of this work in connection with the Indian tribes.  Religiously he belongs to the Quaker faith and is affiliated with the Woodmen of the World. In 1900, Mr. Woodard married Lula L. Mitchell, who was born in the British West Indies, a daughter of J. C. Mitchell, now a resident of Oklahoma, and of Mexico and other places. Mr. and Mrs. Woodard have five children: Mary A., Kenneth Penn, Darrel, Patricia Elizabeth and Martha G. - A standard history of Oklahoma: an authentic narrative of its ..., Volume 3, Page 1313 -  By Joseph Bradfield Thoburn

WOODARD, John E. , stock dealer, Bloomingdale, was born in Parke County Indiana  November 27, 1834.  He is of Welsh-Irish ancestry, his progenitors having emigrated to America early in the last century.  His parents were natives of NC, where they were married, and in 1827 moved to Indiana, settling in Parke County, where the father died in 1868.  He was a farmer, and while in NC practiced medicine under the old Thompsonian system.  The mother died about 1865.  Mr. Woodard during his minority worked upon his father's farm, attended school in an old log schoolhouse, and for two years was a student in Bloomingdale Academy, under Prof. HOBBS.  At the age of 20 years, he was married to Miss Rebecca Kelly, daughter of a Parke County Farmer.  She was an amiable and intelligent woman, in every way worthy the man of her choice.  She died in August 1861.  Shortly before the death of his wife he abandoned farming and engaged for a season as clerk, and then began business in merchandising on his own account, which he has continued for some time.  He is now engaged more as a stock breaker and pork packer.  In 1863, he enlisted as  a private in Co. F, 11th Ind. Calvary; was commissioned second lt. before entering the service, and in 1864, was promoted to captain, in which capacity he served until the close of the year, when he was compelled to resign on account of protracted ill health.  On his return home, he resumed business, in which he was reasonably successful.  Before entering the army, he was marriage to Miss Sallie MADDOCK of Ridge Farm, Illinois .  She is a loyal daughter of the west, and a woman in whom her husband finds a companion worthy of his station in life.  I 1869, he was nominated for representative in the legislature, and elected by 911 votes, leading his ticket nearly 300 votes.  He resigned in 1870, with 33 others, and was reelected tot he same position in 1872, and served acceptably as a representative of the people.  He stands well with his fellow citizens, and is naturally social and companionable, making and retaining friends without an effort.    Taken from: Page292 History of Parke County Indiana ; J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880  

WOODARD, Solomon B., farmer, Rockville, was born in Parke County March 27, 1838, and is the son of Silas H. And Emily (ALLEN) Woodard.  His father was born in Wayne County, North Carolina October 7, 1810 and died March 10, 1862.  He was a prominent Sabbath-school worker, an elder in the Society of Friends and in politics a republican.  He was one of the pioneer settlers in Parke County.  Mr. Woodard's mother was born in Clark County, Ohio  March 31, 1819.  Mr. Woodard had a good common school education, and attended Bloomingdale Academy most of the  time from the age of 16 to the age of 20.  He then taught school a good deal of the time for 20 years.  He was very successful as a teacher, and had a first grade certificate and received the highest wages.  December   8, 1864 he was married to Mary STANLEY, who was born November 4, 1841 in Hendricks County, Indiana, near Plainfield and was the daughter Matthew and Unice Stanley (sic).  Her parents were both members of the Friends.  Her father was an active man in the cause of freedom, and was in sympathy with the downtrodden of whatever race or condition.  He was born December 25, 1799 and died January 4, 1869.  Her mother was born January 7, 1809 and died January 31, 1879.  Mr. Woodard is the father of 6 children: Alida F, who died August 10, 1871; Linus M., died September 26, 1871; Matthew F; Otis C; Stanley P and Walter C.  Mr. Woodard and his wife are both elders in the church of Friends. Mr. Woodard has been assessor in Wabash Township. Two terms.  He has visited Niagara Falls, Canada, NY City, and went to the Centennial at Philadelphia.  In the fall of 1872 he and his wife paid a visit to Kansas.  Mr. W. Has been a successful farmer, and has recently built a nice house on his place  He is a republican, and cast his first vote for Lincoln.  He is quite a reader, a lover of books and literature and has the qualities and traits of a true gentleman.   

WOODARD, Zachariah, deceased, was one of Parke County's most respected citizens.  He came to the county as early as 1828.  He was born in Wayne County, NC on July 20, 1809, and remained a resident of Parke County from the time he came until his death.  He was twice married: first to Sally COATE, October 25, 1832.  She was born August 21, 1817 and died in about 1848.  His second marriage was January 17, 1850, to Harmony COX, daughter. of John Cox.  She was born in Knox County, Indiana  March 15, 1818, and came to Vigo County in an early day, and to Parke County in 1846.  Mr. Woodard became the father of Five children by his first wife: Mary, Betsy, Louisiana, Sarah E. and Thomas; and by his second wife, four living: Ruth, Francis, Anna and Julian.  (Beadle, J. H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers reprinted 1977 by The Bookmark, Knightstown Indiana ).  

WOODS, Robert, farmer, Bridgeton, was born in Franklin County, Kentucky June 6, 1820 and is the son of John and Elizabeth Woods.  Mr. Woods' father lived in Virginia till he was 50 years old and then moved to Kentucky, where he remained till he died.  Mr. Woods began farming for himself in 1844 and was married in 1845 to Mary RUSSEL.  She was born October 24, 1819 in Bullet County, Kentucky.  They have had 7 children: John R. was born September 27, 1842.  In the fall of 1862 he enlisted in Co. A 85th Indiana Volunteers and died in Danville, Kentucky February 9, 1863.  He was a brave soldier and true patriot.  Lavina C, was born September 15, 1846; Christopher C, November 20, 1874, died November 27, 1874; Maranda J, March 24, 1852, died December 16, 1875; Mary E., born July 29, 1854, died September 12, 1855; Rachel E., born January 4, 1857,died October 19, 1874.  Mrs. Woods' children are all dead except Melvina C, who was married January 27, 1878 to Mr. J .F. TYLER.  She has one child, Flora G, born July 10, 1879.  Mr. and Mrs.. Woods are both old members of the Baptist church.  He is a republican and one of the substantial citizens of this township.  He had a good farm of 160 acres two miles south of Bridgeton. 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 

WOODY , John M., the subject of this sketch, was born in Parke County, Indiana July 25, 1843.  When he was 15 years old, his father moved to Illinois. .  Mr. Woody live don the farm with his father until 1862, when he enlisted in the 79th Regt. Illinois  Volunteers.  His regiment was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland General Rosecrans commanding and participated in 3 campaigns -- under Rosencrans, Thomas and Grant -- and were engaged in 15 battles and 17 skirmishes during which time Mr. Woody was twice slightly wounded.  After the war, Mr. Woody moved to Bloomingdale and engaged in the carpenter's trade, which business he still carries on.  In 1867, he was married to Minnie OSBORN of Parke County  (Taken from: Atlas of Parke County, Indiana.  Chicago: AT Andreas, 1874). 

John M. WOODY is prosperously engaged in the merchandise business in Bloomingdale.  His parents were Mahlon and Agnes Chapman Woody.  John was born in Penn Township, July 25, 1843 and when a lad moved to various places with his parents. When the War of the Rebellion broke out our subject enrolled his name on the Union side and entered Co A, 79th Illinois Infantry under command of General Thomas.  In this conflict Mr. Woody distinguished himself in 32 skirmishes and hard-fought battles, the most important ones being at Stone River, Chickamauga and Missionary Ridge.  In the first named battle he was slightly wounded and in the engagement at Liberty Gap, being more severely wounded by a piece of flying shell, was carried from the field.  While fighting at Stone River he was captured by the enemy and taken to Libby Prison where he lived on bread and water for 20 days.  At the close of the war he was discharged at Springfield, Illinois and mustered out at Nashville, Tennessee.  After peace was declared he went to Illinois and there remained six months at the end of which time he came to Parke County and reestablished himself in the trade of carpentry.  Mr. Woody was married in 1867 to Miss Minnie Osborn, the daughter of Jesse and Elizabeth HILL Osborn who were natives of Orange County, Indiana.  Mrs. Woody is the mother of three: Elizabeth, Walter and Warren, the last two dying when young.  Mr. Woody followed his trade until he went into the merchandise business at Bloomingdale in 1875.  He has remained here the greater part of the time, attending strictly to his business.  In 1887 he went on a tour to California for a vacation and spent two years in traveling through the western states. Returning home greatly benefited, he again resumed business in his store.  He is a first-class business man, attending closely to the details of his trade and promptly meeting all obligations fairly and squarely.  In social life our object is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Number. 87 of Bloomingdale.  He is also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, Annapolis Post No.10.  In politics he advocates the principles of the Republican Party and in 1890 was called upon to fill the responsible office of Trustee of the township, which position he has occupied since.  Mr. Woody is a man who aspires to attain the highest place among his fellow men, and should he continue to live in the years to come as he has lived in the years that have gone, there is no question but that the fondest aspirations of his heart will be fully realized in this direction. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 357

WOODY, John W., the subject of this sketch, was born in Parke County, Indiana  July 25, 1843.  When he was 15 years old, his father moved to Illinois.  Mr. Woody lived on the farm with his father until 1862, when he enlisted in the 79th Regt Ill Vol.  His regiment was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland, Gen. Rosencrans commanding and participate din 3 campaigns under Rosencrans, Thomas and Grant -- and were engaged in 15 battles and 17 skirmishes during which time Mr. Woody was twice slightly wounded.  After the war, Mr. Woody moved to Bloomingdale and engaged in the carpenter's trade, which business he still carries on.  In 1867 he was married to Minnie Osborn, of Parke County.  Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke County Atlas of  Indiana  Centennial, 1816-1916, Page 123.  

Mahlon Woody was born in North Carolina and migrated to Parke County with his parents when very young. He remained at home until he was married, receiving, meanwhile, a common school education. For a few years after his marriage he remained on his father's farm, until he was given eighty acres of good land where our subject's hotel now stands. By going security for his brother, as also did his father, he lost the entire tract. About 1849 he moved to Howard County, Indiana, where he entered one hundred and sixty acres of land from the Government. After improving this farm he went to New London, where he assumed the proprietorship of a hotel, and subsequently went to Tippecanoe County, where he carried on farming quite extensively. But not being satisfied with his location, he returned to Parke County, where he remained a short time. He then moved to Edgar County, Illinois, thence to Champaign County, and finally to Livingston County, Missouri, where he died. His wife passed away at Pilot Grove, Illinois, in Edgar County. He was a member of the Society of Friends, and in politics was a Whig until the time of the formation of the Republican Party, when he cast his vote for its nominees.  - shared by Amy Berga

Mahlon Woody was the father of the following children by his first wife: William C., George W., Mary E., John M., Martha J., Sarah E., Isabella C., Agnes A., Mahlon N., Thomas B., Hannah A. and James S. Those born to his second wife, who was Miss Susie Lindley in her maiden days, were: Levi H., Nathan S., Lydia L., Rufus K., Ira H., Elva H., J. M. D. and Luther G.  - shared by Amy Berga

WOODY, W. C., farmer, Bloomingdale, was born in Penn Township, Parke County Indiana  January 31, 1837.  He is the son of Mahlon Woody, who was  a native of NC and came to Parke County in an early day.  Mr. Woody remained at home until 20 years of age, in the meantime attending the common schools, where he received his education.  He has been thrice married: to Mary Jennett December 27, 1859,died March 6, 1865; January 23, 1867, to Sabra A. TOMLINSON died October 18, 1872 and his third marriage was November 27, 1873 to Amanda NORRIS.  Mr. Woody has served the people of his township as assessor for many years and is known by the citizens of Parke County as an honest and respected citizen.   Taken from: Page293 History of Parke County Indiana ; J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880  

William Woody, subject of this sketch, received his education in the district schools in Parke County and attended one term at the academy in Bloomingdale. He was married December 27, 1859, in Illinois, to Miss Mary Ginnett, who was born December 7, 1839, and died March 6, 1865. After the decease of his first wife Mr. Woody married a Miss S. A. TOMLINSON, who bore him two children: Mary A. and Lizzie B. This lady survived but six years after her marriage, and Mr. Woody again married, the young lady being Miss Amanda NORRIS, who is the mother of one child, Laura D., now deceased. Six years after his first marriage Mr. Woody returned to Parke County, where he has since made his home. He now has charge of the hotel, of which he has been "mine host" for the last ten years. He is a member of the Society of Friends, in which he has used his influence both financially and spiritually for a number of years. He was chosen Township Assessor and held that position for about ten years, after which he was elected Road Superintendent and Township Marshal of the village of Bloomingdale, which offices he has held ever since. (Portrait & Biographical Record Fountain, Montgomery & Parke Counties, by Chapman Brothers) - shared by Amy Berga

William C. WOODY. Among those who are gaining a livelihood by industry and perseverance is the gentleman whose name heads this sketch, who is a hotel-keeper of Bloomingdale, Penn Township, Parke County.  He is the son of Mahlon and Agnes CHAPMAN Woody, and was born in Bloomingdale, Penn Township, this county in 1837.  The father of our subject was a son of John and Mary HOLLIDAY Woody. The former was born in 1777 to John Woody and married Miss Mary Holliday March 8, 1804.  This lady was a native of Orange Co North Carolina and born October 1, 1786 and after her marriage to John Woody, they moved to a home near Haw River on which Mr. Woody was engaged as a ferryman.  The Woody family sprang from one john Woody, who came to America soon after the Pilgrim Fathers and settled in North Carolina. He had two sons, John and James, and the Woodys of Indiana were descendants of this son John who came to Parke County in 1829 and settled on a spot of ground where Thomas Nelson Gordon now is. There he lived two years until he was enabled to purchase the farm belonging to Dr. Goldsbury where he lived until 1847.    At this time he moved to Howard County, where he entered 160 acres of Government land on which he made his home until the time of his death, which occurred February 21, 1856.  His wife died six years prior to that time.  He was one of the few who originated the Quaker Church of Penn Township, and served as Elder in that church for a number of years. Governor Wright of Indiana, called at this John Woody's residence, on account of a wager having been made that he could reap grain as fast as Mr. Woody.  The last named gentleman was a native of NC, where he was married and reared a large family.  The names of these children were: Thomas; James; Sarah; Elizabeth; Mary; Catherine; Mahon (father of our subject); John; Ruth; Hannah; Samuel and Elmer (note: this should be Eleanor who married Jonathan Swaim).  Mahlon Woody was born in North Carolina and migrated to Parke County with his parents when very young.  He remained at home until he was married, receiving, meanwhile, a common school education.  For a few years after his marriage he remained on his father's farm until he was given 80 acres of good land where our subject's hotel now stands.  By going security for his brother, as also did his father, he lost the entire tract.  About 1849 he moved to Howard County, Indiana where he entered 160 acres of land from the government. After improving this farm he went to New London where he assumed the proprietorship of a hotel and subsequently went to Tippecanoe County where he carried on farming quiet6 extensively. But not being satisfied with his location, he returned to Parke County where he remained a short time. He then moved to Edgar County, Illinois; thence to Champaign County and finally Livingston Co Missouri; where he died.  His wife passed away at Pilot Grove, Illinois in Edgar County.  He was a member of the Society of Friends and in politics a Whig until the time of the formation of the Republican Party when he cast his vote for its nominees.  Mahlon Woody was the father of the following children by his 1st wife: William C; George W; Mary E; John M; Martha J; Sarah E; Isabella C; Agnes A; Mahlon N; Thomas B; Hannah A and James S.  Those born to his second wife who was Miss Susie LINDLEY in her maiden days were: Levi H; Nathan S; Lydia L; Rufus K; Ira H; Elva H; JMD and Luther G.  William Woody, subject of this sketch, received his education in the district schools in Parke County and attended one term at the academy in Bloomingdale. He was married December 27, 1859 in Illinois to Mary GINNETT who was born December 7, 1839 and died March 6, 1865. After the decease of his first wife, Mr. Woody married Miss S. A. TOMLINSON who bore him two children: Mary A. and Lizzie B.  This lady survived but six years after her marriage and Mr. Woody again married, the young lady being Miss Amanda NORRIS, who is the mother of one child, Laura D, now deceased.  Six years after his first marriage, Mr. Woody returned to Parke County where he has since made his home.  He now has charge of the hotel of which he has been "mine host" for the last 10 years.  He is a member of the Society of Friends, in which he has used his influence both financially and spiritually for a number of years. He was chosen Township Assessor and held that position for about 10 years, after which he was elected Road Superintendent and Township Marshal of the village of Bloomingdale, which offices he has held ever since. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana. Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 358

WOOLVERTON, Samuel, deceased, was born January 30, 1828 in Adams Township, Parke County Indiana  and was the son of Cyrus and Jane.  His parents were both born in Ohio  and were among the early settlers of Parke County.  His father, Cyrus Woolverton died in 1871 at a very old age and his mother still survives.  Samuel was raised on the farm amid all the surroundings of pioneer life with its hardships and privations.  While yet living in Adams Township, he was married to Mary ODELL, who died 8 months after marriage  He was next marriage to Nancy CRAFTON, daughter of Bennet and Elsy (LUNDAMON) Crafton, who came to Parke County about 1846.  She was born in Spencer County, Kentucky September 9, 1831.  They had 5 children: Isaac, Cyrus B; Marion; Charles E. and Mary J.  Mrs. Woolverton is a member of the Christian Church, as was also her husband.  Mr. W. was a lifelong Democrat, always standing by his party.  He ended his career on earth May 1, 1880 and rests beneath the turf his toiling feet often trod.  The plat of ground he donated shortly before his death to the laudable purpose for which it is now used, it being the site of the Union Church.  He also gave lumber toward building the church, he believed in aiding the work of religion in every way possible.  He was a man of strict integrity and morals, his word being taken for his bond at any time.  His advice was heeded and he was held in high esteem by all who knew him.  Financially, he made life a success, leaving behind him 280 acres of land for his wife and children.  This he had earned and saved by constant toil and economy.  History chronicles him as the donor of the union churchyard to its solemn purpose, "a city for the dead." Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill  

WOOLVERTON, Thomas who bought land in Union Township. in 1820, aided in raising the mill and as he departed that year for Virginia, where he stayed 5 years, then returned, the mill must have been build either in 1820 or 1825.   Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill 

WOOLVERTON, Thomas, the father of James Woolverton, farmer, Mansfield, was born in PA in 1794 and when 3 his parents moved to Hamilton County, Ohio .  In 1820 he came to Parke County and entered land on Section 29 and 30, Township 15 and then went to Virginia.  Rebecca CRAWFORD was born December6, 1810 in Franklin County Indiana  when the county was new.  Her parents came from Virginia in 1803 and she was one among 12 children.  On March 1 ,1827, Thomas Woolverton and Rebecca Crawford were married and on horseback came to his possession in Union Township, Parke County.  Many are the stories of pioneer life told by Mrs. Woolverton, whose memory seems as fresh and vigorous as though she had experienced these trials and pleasures yesterday. They had a family of 10, among whom is James Woolverton, the subj. of this sketch.  He was born October1, 1842 on the old homestead and when he was only 6 his father died.  At the age of 13, he took charge of the farm, which he still manages, together wit the rest of his mother's affairs and his own farm interests.  He was married April 18, 1869 to Nancy C. BRUBECK, daughter of John and Martha (EAST) Brubeck of Raccoon Township.  Both her parents were born in Virginia  Mrs. Woolverton was born in Virginia, February 14, 1846.  They have two children, Caswell and Emmette.  Mr. Woolverton owns 180 acres of land in Section29, Union Township, and is a democrat, but aided the union with his money. 

Athol F. WRIGHT, son of Edmond and Mary Ann Wright, born at Wright's Mills, Parke County Indiana November 6, 1839.  Place of departure for Montana, Paola, Kansas; route traveled across the plains via Leavenworth, Ft. Kearney up south side of South Platte River to Julesburg thence North Platte, Ft. Laramie, Sweetwater River, Lander Cut Off, Blackfoot River, Snake River and Market Lake. Arrived at Bannack, July 28, 1863. Occupation: Miner and merchant . Residence Bannack.  - Page 56. Society of Montana Pioneers.  Montana: The Society, 1899

WRIGHT, Gov. -- When Governor Wright; Judge BRYANT and Col. SLAVENS came to Rockville probably cannot be exactly known, but the dates of their settlement were between 1825 and 1830.  Gov. Wright was preeminently a self-made man.  He was the son of a poor widow and in poverty learned to work and to respect toil, which is better than genius and fortunate birth.  He learned the bricklayer's trade and then went to school at Bloomington, Indiana working as janitor and laborer to pay his way.  After studying law he settled in Rockville to practice his profession.  Both he and Bryant made their homes at Ray's tavern and neither was able to pay his board for a long time, but the accommodating landlord read the signs of sterling character in his guests and tempered his conditions to their shrunken purses.  Wright's education was not extensive or polished and it is even said that his barbarisms of speech furnished no lack of material for remark to the hypercritical.  But he was a remarkable observer and learner and while he had not the taste and patience to be a reader, he greatly coveted the facts of literature and his love of knowledge made him the kindest and withal the most appreciative listener.  To the extent that this could benefit him he was a lifelong student; in this way he went on carefully gathering the golden grains of information and improving his mind and character and political habits, until the day of his death.  He served in both branches of the legislature and in congress and was governor two terms; he was appointed by BUCHANAN, minister to Berlin and was abroad at the breaking out of the rebellion.  His patriotism burned brightly in that trying hour, and was a watch fire in a foreign land to loyal souls.  He died in Berlin.  He was never a resident of Rockville after he became governor.  His first house in that place is still pointed out, and rising above and overlooking it are the chimneys he reared with his own hands.  His benevolence was unbounded.  He was 3 times married; his first wife, who died when he was governor, was Miss Louisa COOK of Montezuma. 

WRIGHT, Jeremiah, farmer and stock dealer, Bellmore, was born October 3, 1815 in Murphy Co, Virginia and is the son of John and Jane (LAWS) Wright, now deceased.  His paternal grandfather was a teamster in the revolution, and his maternal grandfather was a slaveholder in Kentucky.  His parents moved from Kentucky to Union Township 1829 and leased a part of school Sect. 16 on which they lived for 6 years.  They then moved just West of Bellmore.  During this time and up to 1835 Jeremiah stayed at home, but at that date he began life for himself.  He caught his education on rainy days, mostly in the pioneer log schoolhouses of his young days.  He worked for $7 per month, and split rails for 25 cents per hundred.  He drove an ox team north of Chicago in 1835-6, peddling flour, bacon, etc. when there was but one brick house in the place, owned by one HUBBARD.  Here he saw at one time 3,000 Indians.  In 1838 he visited Kentucky and in 1839 followed carpentering for a livelihood.  For sport he used to hunt deer and other game and engage in many log rolling and frolics.  Those were the happy days of his life, although full of privations and hardships.  He was married November 11, 1841 to Clarisa McGilvery, daughter of John one of the early settlers of Union Township.  The children by this marriage are Sarah I, born December 29, 1842 and John D, born May 23, 1851.  Both are now married  He has looked well to the education of his children, having sent them to Greencastle and John died to Indianapolis, where he graduated in a commercial school.  Mr. Wright owns 122 acres of land, fairly stocked.  He has made what he has by hard work.  Politically a democrat, he ha snot slept, having stumped the county for Buchanan, Polk and Breckenridge.  He ahs been constable six years, school trustee one year and school director one term.  Mr. Wright was never afraid to speak as he thought. 

WRIGHT, Robert , farmer, Annapolis, was born in Virginia, June 4, 1807, and came to Parke County a poor boy in 1828.  He helped to build the dam at the Narrows on Sugar Creek, in this county for a mill built for Solomon Lusk.  Here he worked for $8 per month, and thought he was getting good wages, having worked in Kentucky. for 25 cents a day.  He worked at Rossville, this county, for W. BRIGGS who owned a distillery at that place.  After working there for some time he took sick, which kept him from work for one year and after regaining his health he went to Kentucky, where he married Margaret DEEN, a native of Kentucky, born 1805 and soon after returned to Parke County.  This time he purchased land and began farming, which he has followed ever since.  He now owns 210 acres of fine land and it is under good improvements.  This is the result of many years' hard work.  He has one son and two daughters: William P; Lucy J, wife of J. HEATH and Elizabeth, wife of Jacob HEATH.   Taken from: Page 286 History of Parke County Indiana ; J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880