MOODY, D.W. - Putnam

MOODY -- There are few men who have made their way to usefulness through more trying and untoward circumstances than D. W.  MOODY, teacher and minister.  His father, James H. Moody, was born in Kentucky, and his mother, Rachel E. ROBBINS was born in North Carolina while their son, the subject of this sketch, was ushered into this world of light and darkness in Hendricks County, Indiana January 12, 1849.  The boy whiled the hours away on the farm.  But dark hours came.  When 10 years old, March 15, 1859, his father departed to his rest, leaving a family dependent upon the exertions of the mother.  The elder Moody left home hearty and well, and went to Jay County. For the purpose of settling some real estate business and there died. D. W. Manifested a desire to be educated.  Levi PENNINGTON, a wealthy gentleman of Hendricks County, sent him to school.  He attended the Ladoga Academy under Prof. M. B. HOPKINS.  When 18 he began teaching, which still furnished part of his livelihood.  He early entered the ministry of the Christian church, preaching his first sermon on his 19th birthday.  He has since been laboring in the pulpit as well as teaching.  He has preached in Illinois and Indiana and has taught in both states -- in Champaign County, ill and in Boone, Putnam, Hendricks, Montgomery and Parke Counties in Indiana.  He was principal of the New Ross and Alamo graded schools at different times.  While in Illinois he met the lady whom he married Miss Mellie WARD, daughter Rev. R. L.  And Eliza (CRAWFORD) Ward of Champaign County, Illinois.  The married took place February 18, 1872.  Her parents came from Allegheny County, NY.  Mr. and Mrs. Moody have been blessed with four children: George E; Effie E; Guy O; and Birdie F.  Mr. Moody is an unwavering republican and a worker not only in the church and school, but his influence is also felt in the temperance cause. - kbz