SHEPHERD, J. P. - Putnam

J.P. Shepherd, a life long resident of Floyd Township, Putnam County, planned a unique surprise for his children and grandchildren on New Year's Day.  They were all invited home presumable to attend a New Year's dinner. After doing justice to a bountifully provided table, on which the turkey occupied the post of honor, they repaired to the parlor where a pleasant surprise awaited them in the form of a tree well laden with presents for old and young. The children were well provided with candies, fruits, toys, etc.  The sons and daughters, six in number, were each presented with land or money to the value of $4,000.  The sons-in-law were not forgotten but each received a handsome present in coin.  J.W. Ader and John Underwood receiving their favorite coil - silver. H. C. Sutherlin and Frank Bowen receiving gold. It is needless to say they appreciated the joke.  The distribution of resents ended with the presentation by the children of two handsome rockers to Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Shepherd. The children left for their several homes feeling it had been the most profitable New Years day they had ever spent.