To be successful it is necessary that the person be adapted to the calling in which he engages There are some people possessed of sufficient versatility to be seemingly successful in all they undertake, but the average man must be fitted for his calling. Some people flounder around half their lives, shifting from one vocation to another, before they discover what they are fitted for; others strike, seemingly by accident, the business best suited to them, while still others almost intuitively take up the work in which they are destined to excell [sic]. A successful merchant might be a rank failure as a mechanic, and instances where good mechanics are spoiled to make poor politicians are numerous in nearly every community. When Alfred Sherman Abbott, the subject of this sketch, quit his grandfather's home in Shelby county, Ohio, and came to Craigville, Wells county, Indiana, to engage in the general mercantile business with his father he struck a calling for which he is well fitted, as his experience of the past twelve years has disclosed.

Alfred S. Abbott was born in Shelby county, Ohio, February 28, 1865. When he was seven years old his father, Daniel W. Abbott, who was a United Brethren minister, was given a circuit in Jay county, Indiana, and thither the family was moved. In the district schools of Indiana young Abbott laid the foundation for a good, liberal education. Having taken the regular course there, he attended the high school at Ada, Ohio, acquiring a very thorough knowledge of all the branches there taught. On completing his school course he for a time traveled about Ohio. seemingly undecided what would be best for him to engage in. In the summer of 1886 he turned up at the old home in Shelby county, Ohio, where his grandfather still lived, and was prevailed upon by the old gentleman to take up work on the farm. He was industrious and provident, his crops and stock thrived and harvests were abundant.

April 15, 1888, he was united in marriage to Miss Laura C. Rhoads, of Rockford. She was a lady of good education and many accomplishments, a teacher in the public schools of Mercer county. He continued cultivating his grandfather's farm until the fall of 1890, when he was invited by his father to come to Craigville and engage with him in the mercantile business, as clerk and assistant, and, with some misgivings, he accepted the invitation. The move proved to be a wise one. Rev. Abbott was postmaster under the Harrison administration, and most of the labor of the office devolved upon the subject. His experience in the store and in the postoffice he found most beneficial, being a sort of commercial education in itself. Under the administration of President McKinley, in 1898, Alfred S. Abbott was appointed postmaster, and in 1900 he purchased the store of his father and since then has conducted it alone. Under the present administration he has been reappointed postmaster, and his conduct of the office has given very general satisfaction. The business of the store continues steadily to increase, trade being drawn from a large area of territory each successive year. Business is conducted in a prudent, systematic manner that cannot but win the favor of patrons, and prosperity is the inevitable result. Few young men beginning in the mercantile line without experience, as A. S. Abbott did, have been as eminently successful as he has.

In January, 1893, Mr. Abbott experienced his first real misfortune. His young wife bade farewell to earth, entrusting to her young husband the care of their two babes, Minnie M., who had been born August 26, 1890, the other Laura J., an infant of but a few days, born January 20, 1893, but who survived her mother only about six months. These bereavements were most keenly felt by the young business man. He, however, applied himself only the more closely to business, endeavoring to forget his sorrows by smothering them with business cares. After a period of nearly two years he was again united in marriage, this time to Laura C. Reed, daughter of David and Elizabeth Reed, of Lancaster township. His present wife was also a school teacher, having taught a number of terms in the vicinity of their present home. To this latter marriage three children have been born: Bertha May, September 13, 1895; Loyd Allen, April 11, 1899, and Helen Margaret, January 12, 1901.

Twice appointed postmaster, each time under a Republican administration, it seems superfluous to mention that Mr. Abbott is a Republican. Politics, however, is not in his line, business being the first consideration with him. He is a member and a regular attendant at the services of the United Brethren church, has been one of its trustees for a number of years and is now superintendent of the Sunday school. His standing in the community is above reproach and there is scarcely a person in town or country surrounding that is not his personal friend.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana, Logansport, IN, B.F. Bowen, 1903, pp. 423-424.

In these days of strenuous exertion one often hears the ministry spoken of as "a lazy man's job." While there is a vast difference of opinion on this subject at the present time, there was, in the history of Indiana, a time when the ministry required, if not much learning, certainly more in the way of health, physical endurance and strength of purpose, body and mind than any of the learned professions. Reference is made to the time when the "circuit rider" was the popular preacher in Indiana. Rugged in nature and often uncouth in manner, he it was who administered consolation to the sick and hope to the dying. His circuit comprised a number of local congregations, each separated many miles from the others, the distance being generally covered by the minister on the back of a horse rarely noted for smoothness of his gait. The circuit had to be ridden in all kinds of weather, so that bodily soundness of the minister was a necessary accompaniment to the soundness of his doctrine. One of these early ministers was Daniel William Abbott, the subject of this sketch who was born in Shelby county, Ohio, September 19, 1841, the son of William H. Abbott, who was born in the Lehigh valley, Pennsylvania, January 18, 1818. His mother was Susannah Woodring, a native of Fairfield county, Ohio. William H. Abbott was a man of remarkable ability. Even before he had attained his majority he was elected supervisor of Dinsmore township, Shelby county, and discharged the duties of the office very satisfactorily to his constituents. He was a man whose advantages for education had been limited, but he was sagacious, intelligent, observant, and by home study had so improved his mind that many of those with far better advantages were by no means his equal either in learning or ability. He was only seven years of age when the family moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio and located in Dinsmore township on a piece of government land. Very soon after the organization of the Republican party William H. Abbott became a warm advocate of the principles of that party and he never afterward wavered in faith. The violation of the Missouri Compromise and the Kansas-Nebraska trouble determined him in his choice. He and his wife were both members of the German Reform church of Dinsmore township and among the most regular attendants thereof. Their home was about eight miles from the church, with the roads of those early days scarcely ever in an inviting condition, yet they rarely missed a service though frequently it took them all day to make the trip and return home.

The grandfather of the subject of this sketch was also named William Abbott. At his home in Pennsylvania, on the banks of the Lehigh river, he was one of the pioneer tavern-keepers of the latter part of the eighteenth century. He was a man of wide acquaintance and unbounded hospitality. He had faith in God and the promise that he would provide. Truly, therefore, did he lend to the Lord by ungrudgingly giving to the poor. The children of William H. and Susannah (Woodring) Abbot were six in number, four girls and two boys. Catherine is the widow of the late Robert Botkin, of Ada Ohio; Sarah is the wife of Rev. David Morgan, of Macy, Indiana; Daniel W. is the subject of this sketch; Eli is a teacher and farmer of Maplewood, Ohio; Mary Jane, deceased wife of Robert Turner; Margaret, wife of Demus Swim, of Botkin, Ohio. All those living are prosperous and well-to-do people of standing and worth in the respective communities where they reside.

The early years of Daniel W. Abbott were spent on the farm. He received the benefits of a common school education, applying himself assiduously to his studies with a view to qualifying himself for a teacher. He applied for and received a certificate to teach, but the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion greatly altered his plans. He was destined to carry a musket instead of wielding a birch and the prospective teacher was evolved in to the soldier. August 13, 1862, at Sidney, Shelby county, Ohio, he enlisted as a private in Company H, Ninety-ninth Ohio Volunteers, and continued in the service under Capt. Wyman, until discharged for disability. Returning to his home in Ohio about the time the draft was in progress, he was declared subject to it and although desiring the privilege of re-enlisting, it was denied him for some cause. He was enrolled in Company K, Twenty-ninth Ohio Regiment, and served until the close of the war.

December 31, 1863, Daniel W. Abbott was united in marriage to Jane Lambert, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Lambert, of Shelby county, Ohio. On the return of Mr. Abbott from the war, at the close of hostilities, he turned his attention to farming, which he continued successfully and with profit until 1872, when he entered the ministry of the United Brethren church, where he was granted a quarterly conference license to preach. In 1872 he was appointed by Rev. William Bay, to fill a vacancy that occurred on the Pleasant circuit and in 1873, upon the recommendation of Rev. William Bay, presiding elder of the West district, and Rev. J. L. Luttrel, presiding elder of the East district, where Mr. Abbott held his membership, he was received in to the annual conference and was given his first charge, the Wabash circuit in Jay county, Indiana. Five years after his entrance into ministry he completed his studies and was regularly ordained as an elder in the church. For the next seventeen years he was almost continuously engaged in the work of the gospel. December 15, 1900, on account of failing health, he was obliged to retire from the work. During active service in the ministry he had charge of various circuits both in Indiana and Ohio and in every instance his ministry was blessed by the accomplishment of much good. In most instances when a change was made his people were very reluctant to part from him and on many occasions he was delegated to hold quarterly conference for the presiding elder.

Mr. and Mrs. Abbott are the parents of eight children, six sons and two daughters: Alfred Sherman resides in Craigville; Elmer lives in Lancaster township; Emma Ellen is the wife of Charles Warthman, of Lancaster township; Rosa Arretta is the wife of Amos Hetrick, Jr., and also resides in Lancaster township; Nelson Wallace; Arthur Newton, of Bluffton; Merritt Calvin, of Craigville, and Edgar Clark, still living at home. About 1890 Mr. Abbott engaged in the mercantile business in Craigville, though he continued his chosen calling, allowing his sons to look after the store. His popularity and fair dealing soon established for him good trade and he continued in the mercantile business, being fairly prosperous, until two years ago, when he sold the store and turned the business over to his son, Alfred S. Abbott. In every undertaking of his life Mr. Abbott has been quite successful. He is the owner of several acres of land in Wells county, is possessed of an elegant home in Craigville and a number of profitable investments add materially to his yearly income. In politics he is a Republican and, although liberal and conservative in his views, is, nevertheless, very firm in his convictions. He likes to do good for the sake of that which is good, is kind and gentle in disposition, and charitable almost to a fault. He loves his home and family, his friends and neighbors, and is never happier than when he is benefitting others, even at an outlay of time, trouble or money to himself. There is no kinder father, more loving husband or better citizen than Rev. Daniel W. Abbott, the name of whose friends is legion.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana; B. F. Bowen Publisher, Logansport, IN, 1903; pp. 501-503.
Transcribed by Janice Vasilovski

WILLIAM ABSHIRE, farmer, Chester Township, was born in Madison County, Virginia, November 29, 1829, son of Allen and Polly (Farmer) Abshire, who were born, reared and married in that State. When William was two years old his parents removed to Henry County, Indiana, by wagon, where the mother died in 1846. William was reared in Delaware County, and after changing residence twice, finally bought land there. In 1862 he sold out and purchased 186 acres of land in this county, of which about 141 acres were cleared. He was married in Rush County, in 1853, to Miss Emily Elizabeth Tackett, daughter of John and Martha R. Tackett, natives of Kanawha. County, Virginia. Her father was killed in a railroad accident in Hancock County, her mother also dying in that county. Mr. Abshire is independent in politics, always voting for men and measures rather than for party. He has held the office of supervisor of Chester Township.

Biographical and historical record of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1887, p. 760.

The gentleman of whom the biographer now writes is widely known as one of the honored citizens of Wells county and for a number of years he has been actively identified with the varied interests of the township in which he resides. His well-directed efforts in the practical affairs of life, his capable management of his own business interests and his worthy discharge of important trusts, together with his sound judgment and sterling integrity, have brought to him prosperity and public confidence and his life demonstrates what may be accomplished by a man of energy and ambition who is not afraid to work and who places upon honorable endeavor its proper value. In all the relations of life he has commanded the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens and without a brief record of his career the biographical history of Wells county would be incomplete.

Philip B. Alberson was born January 29, 1854, in Adams county, Indiana, and is a son of Charles and Mary A. (Brown) Alberson. Charles was the son of Joshua and Catherine Alberson, who were among the early settlers of Randolph county, Indiana, subsequently removing to the county of Adams. Charles Alberson was born in Randolph county, but grew up and married in Adams, moving from the latter to Wells county about the year 1860, settling on the farm which his son Philip B. now owns. He cleared eighty acres of this place, became one of the substantial men of his community and died in the year 1878, honored and respected by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. His widow is still living at the ripe old age of eighty and is quite strong and vigorous for one of her years, retaining in a marked degree her mental as well as her bodily powers. Mr. and Mrs. Alberson reared a large family of eleven children, ten of whom grew to years of maturity, namely Joshua, a resident of Nottingham township, Elizabeth, wife of W. S. Settles; Henry, of Nottingham township; Philip, subject of this sketch; Catherine, who married Warren Walser; Nancy, now Mrs. Mat Tinsley; Daniel, of this county; Julia, wife of Robert Gilby; Jacob, a farmer of Nottingham, and Samuel, also a resident of this township; the first born of the family was a son by the name of John who died in infancy

Philip B. Alberson received a limited knowledge of books in the schools of his native township and owing to circumstances which he could not command was unable to prosecute his studies as far as he desired. He remained at home faithfully attending to the duties of the farm until seventeen years of age, when he began earning money for himself by working as a farm hand for a man by the name of Settle, later entering the employ of Mr. Jacob Wolf. He was thus engaged for two years, at the end of which time he took charge of the home place on account of his father's ill-health and continued to look after the same until beginning life for himself several years later. While cultivating the old homestead he purchased twenty-five acres of his own and on the 16th of September, 1877, was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Davis, daughter of T. F. and Alice (Rogers) Davis, of Adams county. Immediately following his marriage Mr. Alberson moved to his little place in Nottingham township referred to above but did not long remain there, his father's continued ill health causing him again to return to the old home. On the death of his father he purchased his brothers' and sisters' interests in the estate, after which he took possession of the farm and has since cultivated it in connection with stock raising, realizing liberal returns from his labors. He has added many improvements to the place in the way of buildings, draining, etc., and from time to time has purchased other lands until he is now the owner of two hundred and thirty acres of real estate which for productiveness and advantage of situation is not excelled by any like area in the township of Nottingham. In addition to his country real estate, Mr. Alberson has valuable town property, owning a large store building and several dwelling houses in Phoenix, besides lots and buildings in the village of Petroleum. In connection with agriculture he has made for a number of years past a specialty of live stock, particularly the rearing of hogs, and has show excellent judgment in this important branch of husbandry. Not a little of Mr. Alberson's wealth of recent years has been derived from the twenty-three oil wells on his land, his share of the proceeds now averaging from sixty to seventy dollars per month, although much greater than these amounts for some time following the development of the industry.

Mr. Alberson has always been recognized as a man of sound judgment and excellent business qualifications, in view of which facts his services have frequently been in demand to settle estates, and act as guardian for minor heirs, several of which trusts he has on his hands at the present time. His advice in legal matters has also been sought by his neighbors and his opinions in these and other affairs have seldom if ever been at fault. As a Republican he has taken an active interest in political and public affairs and as a citizen his voice and influence have always been used to further legitimate objects for the material advancement of the community and the social and moral improvement of his fellowmen. Fraternally he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge No. 721, at Petroleum, his wife belonging t the Rebekah degree, Lodge No. 571, at Petroleum.

Mr. and Mrs. Alberson have had nine children, whose names and other facts concerning them are as follows: Rella M., born July 5, 1878, is the wife of John Young, of this county, and the mother of three offspring, Arlie, Esther and Oakes; the second of the family was an infant daughter born and died on the 6th of October, 1880; Emma C. was born November 18, 1882, and still lives under the parental roof; the next in order of birth was an infant that died unnamed; John C. was born on the 7th day of June, 1885; Arvil, born July 28,1887, died October 6, of the same year; Mary A. was born August 11, 1888, departed this life on the 13th of September, 1889; William was born August 11, 1890, and Violet, whose birth occurred on the 10th day of June, 1894. Mr. Alberson's family is one of the best known and among the most popular in this part of the county. He has every reason to be proud of his fine home, of his well cultivated farm and of his good citizenship and excellent name. The high esteem in which he is held bears testimony to his moral character and substantial worth, and his life has been so filled with good deeds that he finds little to regret in the years gone by.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana; B. F. Bowen Publisher, Logansport, IN, 1903; pp. 240-242.
Transcribed by Janice Vasilovski

JJAMES ALEXANDER, an active and enterprising agriculturist of Jackson Township, residing on section 27, was born in Logan County, Ohio, August 22, 1827, a son of Robert and Mary (Wilkinson) Alexander. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, born in Mifflin County February 19, 1793, of Irish parentage. He was reared on a farm in his native State, and when a young man went to Champaign County, Ohio, where he was married February 26, 1822, to Miss Mary Wilkinson, a native of Virginia, born October 11, 1793, who came with her parents to Ohio when about sixteen years of age. After living a few years in Champaign County, they removed to Logan County, and in May, 1837, the father came with his family to Elkhart County, Indiana, making the journey by team. That county was then quite new, but settlers were beginning to locate there. They remained in Elkhart County until February, 1838, coming thence to Wells County, where the father had entered 120 acres of wild land in Jackson Township the previous fall. Not a tree had been cut on the place when they came here, and while the father was building his cabin the family lived in a log cabin about three quarters of a mile away which was already occupied by two other families. Edward Alexander and family, a brother of Robert, came with the family and lived with them in their log cabin for a time. The cabin had but one opening for a door, and this was made high from the ground so that their hogs could be kept out. When their cabin was put up there were eight or ten inches of snow on the ground, and when they built a fire the snow melted, and it was only by covering the floor with clapboards left from the roof that they could keep out of the mud. Deer and other wild animals were numerous, and these furnished the family with meat when brought down by the trusty rifle of the old pioneer. The mother of our subject died October 31, 1868, and the father April 4, 1872. They were well known throughout the community and highly respected citizens. In politics he was formerly an old-line Whig, and later a Republican. For a number of years in the early history of the county he served as one of the trustees of Jackson Township.

James Alexander, whose name heads this sketch, was in his eleventh year when he came with his fatherÂ's family to Wells County, and here he was reared amid the scenes attending the clearing up of a new country, and his youth was spent in assisting his father clear their heavily timbered farm. He remembers that during the first year of their settlement their horses ran away, and the crop had to be tended with oxen hitched up and broken into the work. October 14, 1852, he was married to Miss Mary McKee, who was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, May 3, 1833, a daughter of Peter and Rhoda (Peters) McKee, natives of Ohio and Virginia respectively. The parents of Mrs. Alexander came to Indiana and located in Blackford County in 1843, and there the father died about 1871. The mother is still a resident of Washington Township, Blackford County. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Alexander, of whom three are yet living - William Edward, engaged in teaching in Somerset, Wabash County; Julia and Jennie. Robert Peter is deceased.

In politics Mr. Alexander is a Republican, and has held local offices. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant church, and he is one of the advisory committee of Salamonie circuit. For nearly half a century he has lived in Jackson Township and has witnessed the many wonderful changes that have taken place, transforming the wilderness into well cultivated farms and prosperous villages. The first sermon preached in Jackson Township was at his father's house, by Rev. George W. Bowers of the Methodist Episcopal church, on Christmas eve, 1838, and the first religions organization was formed at his father's cabin with eleven members. His father was a local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal church, and was licensed to preach in 1840, and held meetings all over the county. Mr. Alexander is one of the prosperous farmers of Jackson Township. His farm contains 240 acres, 90 of which are under a good state of cultivation. His house is one of the many fine ones in the neighborhood, surrounded with shade and ornamental trees. He is engaged in general farming. Mr. Alexander enlisted in the war for the Union, October 14, 1864, and was discharged July 9, 1865. He was assigned to Company H, Fifty-third Indiana Infantry. He was sent to his regiment in Georgia, and at Dalton was sick with measles, and on his recovery was placed on extra duty as nurse in the hospital at Louisville, Kentucky, remaining there until his final discharge at Louisville, after which he returned to his home in Jackson Township, where he has since lived.

Biographical and historical record of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1887. pp. 708-709

Hamon Allen is a native of Stark county, Ohio, and was born November 9, 1845, a son of Robert and Mary (Miller) Allen. He is one of the respected citizens of the county and is a man of honor and integrity. Although by trade he is a blacksmith, he engages also in agriculture. He has also served as a defender of his nation's flag in her hour of direct trouble, and of this episode in his life further mention will be made.

Robert Allen, father of Hamon Allen, was also a blacksmith by trade. While still a young man he migrated from Pennsylvania to Ohio and there became acquainted with the Miller family, who were also natives of Pennsylvania and with whom he later became more closely allied. Mr. Allen remained in Ohio until 1846 when he sold his blacksmith shop and other possessions and came to Wells county, Indiana, and located in the town of Murray, where he erected a shop and carried on his trade in connection with farming until about 1851, when he removed to Huntington county, and settled one mile west of Markle and later moved into the village. He was the first and only blacksmith and mechanic in the place at that time, and there he and his wife passed the remainder of their days. To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Allen were born ten children, of whom five are still living, viz: William, Levi, Hamon, Alfred and Etura, the last named being the wife of Leander Ubanks.

Hamon Allen was a mere babe when brought to Indiana by his parents. His father died in 1857 and his brother William succeeded to the charge of the homestead, as Novell as of the blacksmith shop, and Hamon partially learned his trade under his brother, but had not finished a legitimate apprenticeship when the stern tocsin of war vibrated throughout the land and the terrible struggle for the predominance of freedom or slavery began. Young Allen was decidedly in favor of the former and was, moreover, patriotic to the very core of his heart, and at once enlisted in the military service. In 1864, being then not nineteen years of age, he enlisted in Company D, Fifty-first Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which he took part in the battles of Nashville and Franklin, Tennessee, and also followed the rebel general Hood in his notorious flight. Although Mr. Allen passed through this campaign without a bodily wound, he was deprived of his hearing, in part compensation for which misfortune he now receives a pension of twenty dollars per month. From Tennessee Mr. Allen was sent with his regiment to Texas, where he served until honorably discharged in November, 1865, some months after the war had been closed. On his return home he resumed work in the blacksmith shop and cared for his mother with filing tenderness until her death.

In 1868 Mr. Allen was united in marriage with Miss Laura A. Brickley, a daughter of George and Bulinda (Wolfcale) Brickley. The young couple settled down to housekeeping in Markle, Huntington county, where Mr. Allen took charge of the blacksmith shop and conducted it until 1891, when he removed to his farm, one mile east of Markle, where he still follows his trade in conjunction with farming. To Mr. and Mrs. Allen have been born seven children, namely: Nettie M., wife of Charles Line; George F., who married a Miss Meadaugh; Bertha, wife of George Brown, a resident of Rock Creek township; Lewis, Lawrence W., Grace O. and Ralph E., all four still at home. The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Markle, and in politics Mr. Allen is a Democrat. No family in Wells county are more highly respected than that of Mr. Allen and he is himself regarded as one of its most honorable citizens.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana. B.F. Bowen, Logansport, Indiana, 1903, pp. 592-593

J. E. Allen, the only man who has ever made the "Star Restaurant" a success, came to his present ownership through changes, trials, troubles vicissitudes enough to have disheartened the living soul of almost any man. No man has ever more worthily won the respect of a large patronage than he.

Mr. Allen was born May 12, 1861 near Ossian, the son of S. B. and Hanna Allen. He is descended from the strain that produced that grand old hero of the revolution -- Ethan Allen. Educated in the common school, he early left his studies to become a bread winner. The very severe labor on the factory and in the ditch, brought on rheumatism, therefore turning his attention to the restaurant business in 1893, he purchased the "Star". After trying that until 1895, he thought to better himself by a change into the hardware store. This move being unsatisfactory, Mr. Allen, in July, 1893, moved to Warren and went into the livery business. Selling there, he returned to the restaurant idea and in October 1896 went to Markle. Here he would have continued had not the ill health of his wife necessitated her being removed to a more suitable climate. With great sadness in his heart, fearing the inevitable result, he moved to Las Vegas, New Mexico, April 1897. Torn by alternating hopes and despair, he lived for two years in the climate to which his wife had been recommended by the best physicians. During this time he was employed in the shops of the A. T. & S. F. railroad. All efforts to better Mrs. Allen's condition having failed, with great sadness the little family returned to Ossian, and Mr. Allen again purchased the "Star Restaurant" which had passed through several hands since he left.

Whatever can belong to an up-to-date equipment we find in the Allen restaurant. Having taken great pains to make his stock attractive to all customers he is winning a large patronage. As a man, Mr. Allen is a good, patriotic, enterprising citizen and a valued addition to the business fraternity here.

20th Century Souvenir Edition of the Ossian News. January 1st, 1900, page 53-54.

Philemon A. Allen is a native of Whitley county, Indiana, and was born near Coesse on the 29th day of January, 1853, being the eighth in order of birth of nine children of Nathaniel and Eliza (Force) Allen, both of whom revere born in Akron, Ohio, representatives of honored pioneer families of the Buckeye state. They were reared in their native state, and in the year It moved to Whitley county, Indiana, which section at that time was almost entirelv unreclaimed from its primitive wilderness condition. The father at once located on a heavily timbered tract of land, which he began to clear and make ready for cultivation. He erected a saw-mill, which was the first in the county, and was for that reason very much appreciated by the settlers. The family abode was at first a modest log cabin, typical of the place and the period, but the intelligence and progressive character of Nathaniel Allen was such as to secure advancement in temporal affairs, and he contributed his full share of effort toward the development of the county. He and his wife were both active members of the Methodist Episcopal church and often in those days, before the erection of church buildings, their home was opened for religious services, conducted by the pioneer circuit riders, and the preacher of that period was sure of a welcome in the home whenever his long journey brought him in their vicinity. Of the nine children born to Nathaniel and Eliza Allen, three died in infancy, while the parents resided in Akron, Ohio. Those who lived to mature years were as follows: William A., Wesley W., H. Wallace, Cynthia J., Philemon A. and Mary E. Cynthia became the wife of Isaac Hull and moved to Kansas, where she died, leaving several children. Mary E. became the wife of John W. Waugh and died in 1893, leaving five daughters and a son. William and Wesley both served in the war of the Rebellion and are still living in Whitley county. Wallace went to Kansas in the '70s and still resides there.

Philemon A. Allen grew to manhood in his native county, and the days of his boyhood and youth were passed as the life of the average boy reared on the farm. He attended the common schools during the short terms they were in session each year and the rest of the time was spent in helping to cultivate the farm. At the age of seventeen years he was qualified to teach and was first licensed by that pioneer educator, I. B. McDonald. He taught two years in what was called the "Log London" school and one year in the Snyder school. He then took a course of study in the normal school at Lebanon, Ohio, after which he went to Mason county, Illinois, where he taught for two years. In the spring of 1875 he took some special studies in the Fort Wayne College and a few months later was called to take charge of the normal department in that institution, which he conducted very successfully for two years. In the fall of 1877 he took charge of the schools at Ossian, Indiana, which position he held for four years and brought the school to a high standard of excellence. It was during his administration that the excellent high school at that place was organized, which has each year since then sent out fine classes of graduates. In the summer of 1881 Mr. Allen took an extensive European trip, and among other things, made a study of the school system in the countries he visited. On his return from Europe he took the superintendency of the schools at Bluffton, Indiana, which position he held for ten years. On taking charge of the schools of that city he at once organized the high school, which graduated its first class in June, 1883. Early in his administration the Bluffton high school was commissioned and the entire school system of the city was brought to such a state of efficiency that it was recognized as one of the best in the state. At the close of an entire decade of service as superintendent of the Bluffton schools, Mr. Allen resigned the position, having negotiated for the purchase of a half interest in the Bluffton Banner. The board of education was reluctant to accept his resignation and endeavored to prevail upon him to continue in the position. But having for some time been desirous of engaging in journalism he adhered to his purpose, and in May, 1891, he assumed editorial charge of the Banner and continued in that position until January, 1902, when he sold his interest in the paper to the present editor. Under his management the paper advanced rapidly in circulation and influence, and was noted for the high tone which characterized its editorial and news columns. Having always been identified with the best and highest interests of the community and county in which he has resided for twenty-five years, he has never hesitated to make bold and effective attacks upon whatever was at war with those best interests. During the eleven years of his connection with the Bluffton Banner he maintained a lively interest in educational affairs, all school enterprises receiving ample and most complimentary notice in his columns. In politics Mr. Allen has always been an uncompromising Democrat and under his direction the Banner led the party to victory in several very closely contested local fights.

On December 25, 1884, Mr. Allen was united in marriage with Miss Georgiana Swaim, of Ossian, Indiana, a native of Troy, Ohio. To them were born two children, Forrest, now in his eighteenth year, who will graduate from the Bluffton high school this year, and Lucile, who died February 6, 1891, at the age of two years and four months. In fraternal relations Mr. Allen is identified with the Masonic order, being a member of Bluffton Lodge No. 145, F. & A. M., and also of the Royal Arch chapter. He has been from young manhood a zealous member of the Methodist Episcopal church, serving for many years on the board of trustees of the Bluffton church. He has been for a long time superintendent of the Sunday school of that church, having recently been elected to that office for the twentieth year. Mrs. Allen and their son Forrest are also members of the same church.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana. B.F. Bowen, Logansport, Indiana, 1903, pp. 425-427

Prof. Philemon A. Allen, superintendent of the public schools of Bluffton, Indiana, has been associated with educational work in the Hoosier State during much of his active career. For twelve years, however, he was interested in journalism and during that time was editor of the Bluffton Banner. Holding advanced ideas concerning education and methods of teaching, during the ten years of his incumbency as superintendent of the Bluffton schools, he has introduced many methods that are proving of the most practical value in making the school what it ever should be -- a preparation for the responsible duties which devolve upon every individual after reaching maturity. His course has received the hearty approval of the most progressive citizens of Bluffton and he has procured the co-operation of his teachers to such an extent that the result is one of great benefit to the pupils enrolled.

A native of Whitley County, Indiana, Philemon A. Allen was born January 29, 1853, and he is a son of Nathaniel and Elizabeth (Force) Allen, both natives of Akron, Ohio, where they were reared, educated and married. Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Allen came to Indiana in 1843 and located in Whitley County, then all woods, and there operated a saw mill with marked success for a number of years. There were nine children born to them, three of whom died in infancy and three of whome are living, in 1917. William and Wesley Allen, two of their sons, were both Union soldiers in the Civil war. The Allens were devout members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and they were influential citizens in their own community.

Born and reared on a farm, Professor Allen attended the neighboring district school during the winter months and in the summer time ably assisted his father and brothers in the work and management of the old homestead. So diligent had he been in procuring an education that at the age of seventeen years he bagan to teach school himself. In 1873 he entered the National Normal School, at Lebanon, Ohio, and after several years' attendance in that institution he taught school for two years in Mason County, Illinois. During the year of 1875 he was a student in Fort Wayne College, where he subsequently became an instructor in the normal department, holding that position for two years. In 1877 he was elected superintendent of the Ossian schools and he served in that capacity with the utmost efficiency for a period of four years, during which time he raised the standard of and graded the schools. In 1881, in order to make himself more efficient as an educator, he traveled extensively in Europe and while there made a thorough study of the school systems of the various countries he visited. Immediately after his return home he was elected superintendent of the Bluffton schools, holding that position for ten years. One of the first things he did on assuming office was to organize a high school, the first class of which graduated in June, 1883. In every possible manner Professor Allen raised the standard of the schools under his guidance and did much to stimulate the pupils to greater efficiency in their school work. In May, 1891, he resigned his office as head of the Bluffton schools and was installed as editor of the Bluffton Banner. For the succeeding twelve years the dissemination of news, the discussion of public questions and the promotion of the general welfare through the columns of his paper constituted life's object with him as a private citizen. Returning to the educational field in 1905, Professor Allen established a business college in Bluffton and conducted the same with marked success for a period of two years. In 1907 he was again prevailed upon to serve as local superintendent of schools and by successive re-elections he has continued to serve in that capacity up to the present time, in 1918.

Professor Allen is a democrat in politics and in a fraternal way is a Royal Arch Mason. His religious faith coincides with the doctrines of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he served as superintendent of Sunday school for twenty-four years.

December 25, 1884, was celebrated the marriage of Professor Allen to Miss Georgiana Swaim. She was born at Troy, Ohio, and was educated in the public schools of Ossian. Mrs. Allen, prior to her marriage, was a teacher in Wells County and she is now an enthusiastic church and Sunday-school worker. Two children were born to Professor and Mrs. Allen: Forrest and Lucile. Forrest was graduated in the Bluffton High School as a member of the class of 1903 and he is now one of the assistant superintendents of the National Malleable Castings Company, in Chicago. In October, 1911, he married Grace Murray, of Chicago, and they have three children, namely: Murray Bernard, Charles Forrest, and Patricia. Lucile, born October 2, 1888, died February 6, 1891.

Standard History of Adams and Wells Counties Indiana. Volume II, Under the Editorial Supervision of John W Tyndall for Adams Co and O. E. Lesh for Wells County. Chicago: The Lewis Publishing Company, 1918, p. 453.
Contributed by Nola Rains

Daniel Alspach, deceased, was born August 10, 1842, in the state of Ohio. He was a son of Amos and Elizabeth (Fox) Alspach, who were natives of Ohio also. The grandfather was likewise named Daniel. Daniel, Jr., came with his parents to Wells county, Indiana, about the year 1852, entering the land now owned by Calvin Alspach. Amos is yet living with his son Calvin, Elizabeth being deceased.

Amos was the father of five children, one of whom is yet living: Elijah, deceased; Daniel died May 5, 1893; John, deceased; Elizabeth, deceased, and Calvin, now living on the old home farm. Daniel Alspach attended the public schools of Jackson township, Wells county, Indiana, until he was about eighteen years old. He then enlisted in Company A, Forty-seventh Indiana Volunteers, and entered the service as a soldier of the Civil war. He first enlisted on the 25th day of September, 1861, to serve for three years, and re-enlisted as a veteran, on the 15th of December, 1863, being mustered out of service at the close of the war, October 23, 1865. After his discharge from the army Daniel spent his time working on the farm of his father until his marriage, which event occurred December 25, 1867. On that day he was married to Henrietta Bevington, born November 3, 1850. She is a daughter of Reason and Catherine (Shadle) Bevington, both of whom are deceased. After his marriage Daniel and wife moved on to the farm where his widow yet resides, and where he died. He had saved money enough during his service in the army to purchase eighty acres of land in the woods. He cleared up and improved all this land before his death, which occurred May 5, 1893. He left, besides his widow, four sons, viz: John A., born March 10, 1863, married Ellen Jones, and they have five children, Delphos E., deceased, Frederick H., Raymond E., Mable and Nelson D.; Asa B., born October 19, 1870, married Mamie Card, is an oil pumper and farmer in Jackson township, Wells county; Orville F. was born May 21, 1876, married Lizzie Stoler, and is an oil pumper in Blackford county; Daniel Clyde was born December 18, 1887, and is yet attending the public schools, being in the sixth grade, and a great reader. Daniel Alspach was a general stock farmer, devoting his time entirely to the interests of his farming operations. Both himself and wife were active members of the Wesleyan church and were consistent Christians.

In politics the subject of this sketch was a Republican and an active worker in the ranks of his party, taking a lively interest in its success. At the time of his death he owned eighty acres of land, on which there are eight oil wells. There are five tanks on the farm, which will run a hundred dollars per month. His widow, Henrietta, has fifty acres of land, on which there are five wells, both places yielding a profit in royalties on oil of two hundred dollars per month.

September 20, 1896, Henrietta, widow of Daniel, was married a second time, her present husband being Benjamin Snyder. Daniel Alspach was a member of that great army of patriotic youth of the land whose pulses were quickened by the call to arms when traitors threatened the disruption of our country. With multitudes of others, he answered the nation's call; relinquishing his schools and youthful aspriations, he donned a uniform and marched away, a soldier of that invincible host who had sworn that the union of states of our country must and should not be severed. Mr. Alspach participated in some of the heaviest battles of the Trans-Mississippi valley campaign, viz: New Madrid, Missouri, Port Gibson, Mississippi, the great siege of Vicksburg and possibly witnessed the surrender of General Pemberton to Grant; was also on the Banks expedition up the Red river and the battles of Fort Blakely and Spanish Forst and Mobile, Alabama. During his entire service he was never taken prisoner nor was wounded. Much honor is due Mr. Alspach for his long service for his country.

After serving his country faithfull until its sovereignty had been acknowledged and peace declared, he proudly passed in review with that great army before disbandment and returned to his home, from which he had been absent for more than four long and anxious years. Having demonstrated the stability and purpose of his life, as but comparatively few others did, by saving his money earned in the army, he returned to the peaceful pursuits of a husbandman of the soil. Purchasing unimproved land, he married and he and his young wife devoted themselves to the carving out of the unbroken woodland a home for themselves and the children that should bless their union. He lived the life of an industrious, peaceful and Christian citizen, performing all the duties relating thereto with a conscientious regard of the rights of others and an innate self indorsement of the rectitude of his own actions. He died at the comparatively early age of fifty-one years, as a result, no doubt, of the vicissitudes and hardships through which he had passed during his army life. He has left to his children the record of a Christian citizen and patriotic soldier, and it can be said of him, that "the world is better for his having lived in it."

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana. B.F. Bowen, Logansport, Indiana, 1903, pp. 200-201

John A. Alspach first saw the light of day in Jacksno township, Wells county, Indiana, March 10, 1869. He is a son of Daniel Alspach, a native of Perry county, Ohio, who came to Wells county with his parents, Amos and Elizabeth Alspach, natives of Ohio, when he was twenty-one years of age. Amos, the grandfather of the subject, is still living at the ripe old age of eighty-five years. Daniel Alspach died May 2, 1893. His wife, Henrietta, a daughter of Reason and Catherine Bevington, natives of Ohio, was born in Wells county and is still living. Daniel Alspach was the father of four children, all of whom are living: John A., subject of this sketch; Asa B., an oil pumper in Jackson township; Orval, an oil pumper in Blackford county; Daniel A., at home.

John A. Alspach attended the public schools in Jackson township until he was fifteen and remained with his father until he was twenty-one years of age. April 18, 1888, he was married to Sarah E. Jones, born in 1870, a daughter of Isaac and Sallie Jones, both of whom are yet living. After his marriage the subject settled on the Abigail Shadle farm in Chester township where he remained for one season, then locating on Daniel Jones' farm in Jackson township, on which he remained for two years. He then moved on to Jane Bevington's farm in Jackson township which he cultivated for two years, when he removed to his mother's farm, remaining there until April, 1900. He then gave up farming and began as a pumper for the Ohio Oil Company on the G. Terhune lease. He is the father of five children, four of whom are still living; Delphos E., born May 2, 1890, died December 29, 1890; Fred H., born December 29, 1896; Raymond E., born January 3, 1898; Mabel D., born June 19, 1899, and Nelson D., born November 7, 1891.

Politically Mr. Alspach is an ardent Republican, and during the campaign times, like a war horse, he "sniffs the battle from afar" and when the contest rages he is in his element and by his efforts for the success of his party does honor to his early teaching.

The subject has the proud honor of being the son of a veteran of the Civil war, his father, Daniel Alspach, having enlisted soon after the beginning of hostilities in that splendid fighting regiment, the Forty-seventh Indiana, and was connected with it all through its glorious history of fifty-two months of arduous service for our country. Like thousands of others, he contracted disabilities in the service and his constitution was shattered, from the effects of which he died of consumption. John A. Alspach is a representative of the class which constitutes the bone and sinew of the country. Educated in the common schools and inheriting from a patriotic sire a hardy constitution and an innate love of his country's institutions, he has the brawn and muscle to wrest a livelihood either as a cultivator of the soil or as a member of the great army of workers in the industries of the country, coupled with the mental capacity and inclination to a participation in the political activities which shape and determine our civic status in the sisterhood of states.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana. B.F. Bowen, Logansport, Indiana, 1903, p. 311

It is always pleasant and profitable to contemplate the career of a man who has made a success of life and won the honor and respect of his fellow citizens. Such is the record of the well know farmer whose name heads this sketch, than whom a more whole-souled or popular man it would be hard to find within the limits of the township in which he resides. He is one of the old settlers of Jefferson township, Wells county, Indiana, and was born to Joseph and Elwyla (Van Horn) Archbold, in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, October 4, 1834. The Archbold family are of Irish descent, the grandfather, Patrick Archbold, having been born and reared in that country. In early manhood he emigrated to America, the Mecca for all expanding young life, and settled in Harrison county, Ohio, where he met and married Miss Francina McClain, a fellow country-woman. Becoming dissatisfied with his life in Ohio, he brought his wife to Jefferson township, Indiana, in the spring of 1848, remaining here until his death at upwards of eighty years old. Joseph Archbold had come to Jefferson township in October, 1847, just one year before the emigration of his father, and entered land in section thirty and immediately began to improve it, residing there until his death. He had always been a hard working man and it was owing to his industry that during his life he was able to accumulate a comfortable fortune being the possessor of one hundred and fifty-two acres of fine farm land. He was a Presbyterian of strict belief and died in the faith which in life he had supported. His children numbered fourteen, nine daughters and five sons, namely: Isaac, Patrick, William J., Thomas W., Rachael, Lucinda and Malinda (twins), Francina, Lucina, Catharine, Elizabeth, Ellen and Barbara. [only 13 named) Barbara was the most fortunate member of this large family of children. Being the youngest she was able to obtain many educational advantages which were denied the others and it was through the efforts of her brother, Thomas, that her education was cared for. For some time she followed the vocation of teaching with success and always looked to her brother who had been the means of obtaining for her the advantage of an education, as her best friend and guide. She is now the wife of John Engle.

Thomas W. Archbold was reared on his father's farm and, owing to a large family of which he was one of the eldest, he received almost no education. In those days the older boys were kept at home clearing the farm and tending the crops in order that the family might exist in the great wilderness and he was no exception to the rule for he kept steadily at work on the home place, carefully nurturing his longing for the knowledge that had been denied him, until he was twenty-six years old, when he took a short term with M. C. Blue as teacher and later entered the Roanoke Academy, where he attended three terms, getting a sufficient education to enable him to teach in the common schools of Wells county. He continued to teach in the Jefferson township schools for ten years

March 14, 1867, Mr. Archbold was married to Miss Matilda C. Miller, daughter of Henry and Nancy (Kunkel) Miller. Mrs. Archbold was born in Crawford county, Ohio, in 1850 and had received a common school education. They were the parents of seven children: Alonzo H., resides at Markle, Indiana; Nancy, wife of N. Q. Hildenbrand; Lydia, wife of Charles Crowel; Clayton, William, Stella and Clifton. Mr. Archbold was poor when he married, having only a small farm of one hundred and twenty acres which he sold and later purchased the old Johnson farm two and one-half miles south of Ossian where he now resides. His advancement was due not to a lucky stroke of fickle fortune but by his own untiring efforts and his determination to win. He was a teamster for one year during the Civil war. In the early days he had been a great hunter and trapper in Wells county, especially along the Eight Mile. He is a most moral man and, while not a church worker, having never united with any denomination, yet he commends all good works be they of a religious or secular nature. In political affairs he has ever been identified with the Democratic party, being an active and ardent worker for the cause, although never having been an office seeker. He was at one time a member of the Wells county central committee and has also served on the election board for twenty-five years. He is not only well and favorably known in Jefferson township but throughout Wells county. He is known as a man of unimpeachable honor and integrity, honest motives and intelligence. He is one of the best citizens of the county and enjoys the highest regards of his acquaintances.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana; B. F. Bowen Publisher, Logansport, IN, 1903 Pg. 488-490
Transcribed by Janice Vasilovski

Among the prominent farmers of Jefferson township, Wells county, Indiana, is William G. Archbold, who was born in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, July 6, 1839, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Gibson) Archbold, who came respectively from Ohio and Pennsylvania families. They were married in Tuscarawas county, coming subsequently to Indiana and locating in Adams county, where John Archbold purchased two hundred and five acres of wild land, which he partially cleared and to a great extent improved, but late removed to Decatur, Indiana, where they passed the remainder of their days.

William G. Archbold was reared on the farm on which his parents settled and was well trained in the details of agriculture, though his opportunities for a scholastic training were somewhat meager. Nevertheless he acquired a sufficient knowledge of books to qualify him for a good position in society and for the understanding of everything that books could impart touching his calling and the current events of the day as recorded by the press.

Mr. Archbold was first married, in 1863, to Miss Elmira Ruby, a native of Ohio, but who was early brought to Indiana by her parents. To this union were born two children, namely: James W., who married Minnie Mills, and lives in Union township, and Mary E., now the wife of A. E. Ormsby, of Union township, and has four children living, Ralph, Argus, Brice and Dale. The second marriage of Mr. Archbold was with Mary C. Sommers, born in Adams county, May 9, 1843, who has borne him three children, viz: David A., who is Married to Grace Deam, daughter of John C. and Amanda (Beadsley) Deam, and has one son Lawrence, who assists his father in operating the farm; Sylvester, who died in infancy and Ioda, who is still with her parents The parents of Mrs. Mary C. (Sommers) Archbold removed from Adams county to Allen county, Indiana, whence they came to Wells county, and here the father died at Ossian in 1898, his death being greatly deplored by all who knew him.

Mr. Archbold in his political affiliations is a Democrat, but he has never been a strong partisan, much less an office seeker. He started in life poor, and has made all he has by indomitable persistence and skill. His farm is one of the best of its size in Jefferson township and everything about it denotes thrift, enterprise and good management. All or nearly all the improvements on the place have been made by himself, and all are of the most modern and substantial character. He is widely and favorably known throughout his township and is recognized as a public-spirited and liberal-hearted gentleman, ready at all times to promote every project designed for the good of the public. He is one of the best of neighbors, his name being synonymous with truth, fidelity and charity.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana; B. F. Bowen Publisher, Logansport, IN, 1903 Pg. 491
Transcribed by Janice Vasilovski

There were very few white people in Wells County previous to 1830. Then they slowly drifted in from the settlements in Ohio and other parts of the country where government land could no longer be found to settle upon. By 1845, much of the land was taken, but the country was still wild and little improved. In 1844, the progenitor of the Arnold family came and made settlement upon a quarter section in Harrison township.

Adam Arnold, the subject of this sketch, was born in Harrison township, Wells County, April 1, 1852. His father was Moses Arnold, who in the early forties, located upon one hundred and sixty acres of land in the woods of Wells County. He came from Miami County, Ohio, where he was born, his parents being Jacob and Clotilda Arnold. When he first located in Wells County, Moses Arnold was a young man of twenty-four years, married only a short time, and had come out into the wilderness to establish a home and make his fortune. Eagerly, he set about the undertaking, working early and late in clearing and improving his land. The hardships of pioneer life, however,were not easily endured, and his young wife sickened and died, leaving four little children to his care. To remain long a widower under those circumstances would have been cruel to his helpless offspring, so, after waiting a suitable period of time, he chose a wife from the daughters of his neighbors and was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ann Bartlemay, daughter of John Bartlemay, a native of Pennsylvania who had located in Wells County early in it’s settlement. To Moses and Mary Ann, twelve children were born, of whom Adam, the subject of this sketch, is the oldest. They are Adam, of whom more will be said hereafter; Ellen, deceased; Sarah, deceased; Elijah and Eli, twins, of whom the latter is dead; the former married Clara Shock and they reside in Michigan; Henry married Carrie Sweney; Edward, deceased; Clotilda, deceased; George married Ida Souch; Jennie is the wife of Charles Ealey; Allen married Sarah Beeler.

The original quarter section of land located upon by Moses Arnold was cleared and improved by him and his children and was held and resided upon by him until his death, which occurred February 8, 1897. He was a man of much firmness and determination, yet neither aggressive nor unkindly in disposition. He loved his family and respected his neighbors and acquaintances. Few men have passed away in his section of the country esteemed more highly or who were more deeply mourned. In politics he was a Democrat and although not a bitter partisan, never neglected an opportunity to vote his sentiments. He died as he had lived, at peace with all the world and perfectly resigned to abide by the will of the Superior Power.

Adam Arnold, the subject of this sketch, was reared upon the farm and learned early the details of the work to be done. When little more than a child he swung an ax with the energy of a man. He chopped down trees, trimmed them, measured and sawed the logs, dug roots, burned brush, and split rails under his father’s direction with far more assiduity than many hired hands. In the winter he attended the district school and was as faithful in his studies as in the clearing of the field. The result was that before he had obtained his majority he had acquired a fair knowledge of the common school branches. When twenty-one years of age he began working in the timber for wages and followed that calling during the winter months for a number of years, the other months of the year being employed as a farm hand. His first agricultural labors on his own account was on his father’s farm, which he rented. In his customary careful, methodical manner, he plowed and planted and reaped. With such success was his efforts attended that within a short time he determined to establish a home of his own. On December 24, 1876, he was united in marriage to Miss Julia Lanning, who was a native of Harrison township, born March 2, 1853. Her parents were Johiel and Susan Lanning both old residents of Wells County. She was a young lady of good education, fair attainments and amiable disposition. He continued to rent the old home place after marriage and prospered. At his father’s death and when the estate was divided, he added to his share by purchase until he owns sixty and three-quarter acreas of the original farm. To Adam and Julia Arnold eight children have been born, viz: Theodore, born September 3, 1877, married Zetta M. Masterson; Dessie Belle born in 1879, deceased; Lulu May, born December 8, 1880; Samuel E., born November 1, 1882; Margaret E., born July 14, 1884; Myrtle, born February 16, 1888; Zina M., born May 7, 1889; Millie M., born June 12, 1891; Luster H., born January 1, 1895. Mrs. Arnold and members of the family belong to the Six Mile Christian Church and are liberal supporters of that religious denomination.

In politics Mr. Arnold was a Democrat, but never has felt that he is either cut out or constructed on the lines of a politician. He has, therefore, neither aspired to nor held office, nor does he care to seek place at the hands of any party. He has no quarrel with people who have taste or inclination in that direction, but political pie is neither palatable nor nutritious to him. In their section of the county Mr. and Mrs. Arnold and their children are well known and highly esteemed. Mr. Arnold has in his possession an old parchment deed dated November 2, 1837, and signed by President Martin Van Buren.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana. B.F. Bowen, Logansport, Indiana, 1903, p. 361
@ourfamilies.net (accessed 12/29/2018)

ELI ARNOLD, an active and enterprising business man of Mount Zion, where he is engaged in mercantile pursuits, is a native of Ohio, born in Wayne County, June 12, 1829, a son of Samuel B. and Mary (Phillips) Arnold. His father was a native of Maryland and of English and German ancestry, and at an early age was taken by his parents to Pennsylvania. When twelve years of age he went with his parents to Wayne County, Ohio, and there he grew to manhood, and was married to Mary Phillips, who was born in the State of New York, of English descent. They made their home in Wayne County until about the year 1835, when they removed to Medina County, Ohio, and from there came to Wells County, Indiana, in October; 1838, by ox team, being three weeks in making the journey. Eighty acres of timber land had been entered in Jackson Township for Mr. Arnold before they came out, and while he was clearing a small place and building his cabin the family lived with William Clark of Chester Township, whom they had known in Ohio. Mr. Arnold's cabin was 18x20 feet in size, covered with a board and pole roof, a hole cut in the wall served for a door, and this aperture was covered with a quilt. At first they had no fireplace, and their food was cooked on a fire built between two sleepers. Samuel B. Arnold came to the county a poor man, having but 37 cents in his pocket, but being handy with tools he had no difficulty in obtaining work. Game of all kinds was abundant, and Mr. Arnold became one of the greatest deer hunters of the county. He lived to enjoy the fruits of his years of toil and to see the surrounding country change from a wilderness to its prosperous condition. He died January 16, 1875, at the age of seventy-five years. His widow still survives, and is making her home with a daughter who resides on a farm adjoining the old homestead. Although eighty years of age she is still active and does her own housework.

Eli Arnold, the subject of this sketch, was in his tenth year when brought by his parents to Wells County, and here he was reared to manhood and educated in the schools of his neighborhood. He was a soldier during the war of the Rebellion, enlisting September 25, 1861, in Company A, Forty-seventh Indiana Infantry. His regiment rendezvoused at Camp Sullivan, Indianapolis, crossed the Ohio River at Louisville, Kentucky. Their first engagement was at New Madrid, Missouri, and after the evacuation of that place by the rebels the latter occupied Island No. 10, and Mr. Arnold's company was one of four that dragged a cannon of twenty-four pound calibre to a point opposite Tiptonville by hand, where they dug rifle pits and masked their cannon and the following morning fired on the rebels while they were passing. The rebels came up with six gun-boats, which were silenced by the four companies above mentioned and their one cannon, and one rebel gunboat was disabled. Mr. Arnold was promoted to First Lieutenant, his commission bearing the date of October 19, 1862, and after that was in a number of minor engagements up to the siege of Vicksburg. He participated in the siege of Vicksburg, the engagement at Jackson, Mississippi, was in General Banks' Red River expedition, and in the thirteen daysÂ' skirmishing while building the dam across that river. After the Red River campaign, he was on duty along the Red, Arkansas and White rivers, and afterward in Tennessee. He was honorably discharged at Memphis, Tennessee, December 30, 1864, when he returned to his home in Wells County.

Mr. Arnold followed farming in Wells County until 1867, with the exception of the time spent in the service of his country, and in the fall of that year he bought an interest in a general mercantile store at Montpelier, Blackford County, Indiana, to which place he removed. He remained in Montpelier eight years, and the last two years spent there he carried on the business alone. He then moved to his farm near the old homestead in Jackson Township, where he followed agricultural pursuits four years, after which he spent one year in the mercantile business at Dundee. He then started a store on his farm, which he conducted four years. He then carried on business at Five Points about twenty months, when he removed to Mount Zion, where he had established a store in February, 1885, and by his fair and honest dealings and genial and accommodating manners he has gained the respect and confidence of his customers, and built up a good trade.

Mr. Arnold has been twice married. For his first wife he married Hannah Maria Nixon, March 22, 1854, who died December 30, 1874. Nine children were born to this union, of whom five are living-Samuel E. married Melinda Slater, and resides in Lane County, Kansas; William N., of Jackson Township, married Susan C. Moffitt; Eli L. carries on his father's store at Van Buren; Jennie J. and Schuyler C. Four died in infancy-Alice L., Melissa E., Thomas E. and one who died unnamed. Mr. Arnold was married a second time June 10, 1875, to Miss Lurinda Hart, a native of Stark County, Ohio, and a daughter of John W. Hart, who came from Ohio to Indiana, and settled in Blackford County. Three children have been born to this union-Abner C., Susan J. and one who died in infancy. Mr. Arnold is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and also of the Patrons of Husbandry. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. He is an elder in the Christian church. Is at present and has been for several years a notary public.

Biographical and historical record of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1887. pp. 772-776.

George Arnold removed to Wells county in the year 1856, engaging in the mercantile business, which he very successfully continued for the space of twenty years. In the year 1870, he was the Republican candidate for State Senator, and, though defeated, he ran ahead of his party ticket. In the year 1872, he was, with one exception, the highest in the list of candidates before the Republican State Convention at Indianapolis; and in 1876 he was selected by that body as one of the delegates to represent the 12th Indiana District in the National Republican Convention held at Cincinnati in that year, and participated in the excitement of that Convention. For several years past he has held the position of Editor and Proprietor of the Bluffton Chronicle. He was appointed Post-master at Bluffton, still retaining a nominal control of the paper, being assisted by his son, Charles A. Arnold, in the management thereof. He is a stanch Republican, and has ever taken an active part in political affairs. His parents, former residents of Greenville, Ohio, were William Arnold, who died February 12, 1875, and Elizabeth (Townsend) Arnold, died December 5, 1825. George Arnold served three years as County Surveyor of Whitely county, Indiana, and served the same length of time as Notary Public. He was born in Darke county, Ohio, September 28, 1818. His wife, Ann Maria, daughter of John and Catherine (Weaver) Welty, was born in Gettysburgh, Pennsylvania, February 13, 1816, and married in Greenville, Ohio, November 10, 1840. Her children are: Janette, born September 23, 1841, died in August, 1872; Henry C., May 2, 1843; Sarah L., November 30, 1844; Charles A., February 5, 1852. G. Arnold, a resident of Harrison township and Post-master at Bluffton, receives mail at that place.

Historical Hand Atlas - History of Wells County, Indiana - Published 1881, p. 204
Transcribed by Kathy Davis

George Arnold, son of William and Elizabeth (Townsend) Arnold, was born September 28, 1818. His parents came from Newberry District, South Carolina, and Settled on Caesar's Creek, Warren County, Ohio, whence they removed to Greenfield, Ohio, in 1816, where the subject of this sketch was born. William Arnold was a well-to-do farmer, became wealthy, served as county commissioner, and was a man highly respected by his neighbors. George was reared on his father's farm, and received a good common-school education, including some of the higher branches, and became a good practical surveyor, and taught school for several years in Darke and Miami Counties, Ohio, and in Whitley County, Indiana. He was married November 10, 1840, in Greensville, Ohio, to Miss Ann Maria Wetty, by whom he had three children - Henry Clay, Sarah L., and Charles A. now living.

In 1843 he removed on a farm in the then wilds of Whitley County, where the settlers were few and far between. The Indians were numerous, and could be seen daily. They were the sole occupants of much of the then unsettled land. He remained on his farm on Eel River, dividing his time between surveying and cultivating the soil. He was county surveyor for three years, receiving his commission from Governor Whitcomb. In 1848 he became tired of farming and removed to Columbia City, the county seat, and engaged as a clerk in the store of Henry Swihart, where he remained over a year. While here he was solicited to run as a candidate for county auditor on the Whig ticket, but was defeated by ten votes, having run thirty-two votes ahead of his party ticket. He had reason afterward to be thankful for his defeat, as it would have changed his whole after-life, which might not have resulted as successfully in business matters, as has been the case as it is. In 1849 he bought out Mr. Swihart and continued the dry goods trade and pork packing for a number of years, till 1856, when he removed to Bluffton and bought out John Studabaker, who had for twenty years done a large and successful business.

He continued in this business with slight intervals for nearly twenty years, being succeeded by his son, Henry C., who has since done a large and successful business. It is some gratification to know that in all these years of business life neither himself nor son have ever suspended or made an assignment (sic.). In 1870 he was the Republican nominee for the State Senate, running ahead of his ticket, but the district being Democratic, he was defeated. In 1872 he was an aspirant for nomination as Secretary of State before the Republican State Convention, and was second on the list of four candidates, but was defeated. In 1877 Mr. Arnold was appointed a delegate to the National Republican Convention by the Indiana State Republican Convention, where he attended and was a participant in the exciting scenes in that body, resulting in the nomination of R. B. Hayes for President, giving his support for Morton as long as there was hope for him; but when that hope died he went over to Hayes. This was a time of the most intense excitement. In 1872, in his absence, he was appointed a lay delegate to the Annual Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Muncie.

In 1878 he bought out the Bluffton Chronicle, and has ever since been its editor and proprietor. He has greatly enlarged and improved it and widely increased its circulation, so that it is now equal, if not superior, to any paper in the county in its circulation and general influence. It might be called the organ of the Republican Party, as its aim is to defend that party, as being the saviour of the country, and devoted to its redemption from Democratic misrule. On January 13, 1880, Mr. Arnold was appointed, by President Hayes, postmaster of Bluffton, which position he held over four years, retaining a normal control over the Chronicle, which during that time was edited by his son Charles, who has been connected with the paper for some nine years. Mr. Arnold is a public- spirited man, always working for the good of the city and county; is a man of high integrity and fair amity, intelligent, courteous, amiable, and of pleasing manners and fine personal presence.

Biographical and historical record of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1887, pp. 726-729.
Contributed by Tammy Rable

The subject of this review is one whose memory links in an indissoluble chain the trend of events from the early pioneer period in the history of this section of the Union to the latter-day epoch where peace, progress and prosperity crown the end of the century. This personal and ancestral identification with the formative period in the Middle West would alone authorize a review of his life in this connection, but superadded to this there are circumstances which render such indulgence practically imperative if the publication is to be consistent with itself and is to fill its prescribed province. For more than a half-century has Mr. Arnold retained his residence in Wells county, is known throughout the length and breadth of the same as one of its honored pioneers and has been conspicuous in the promotion and furtherance of all measures which have conserved the progress and material prosperity of the locality. He has been associated with enterprises which, though of personal concern, have yet been of inestimable value to the community, and his life has been one of signal usefulness and exalted honor. To him, then, should we render a due tribute of respect in this volume, whose purport is to accord consideration to the men who have been or are representative in the affairs of northeastern Indiana.

A native of the Buckeye State, Mr. Arnold was born at Greenville, on the 28th of September, 1818. His father, William Arnold, was born in South Carolina, where he lived until he attained to man's estate, and was there married to Miss Elizabeth Townsend, who also was a native of that State and a representative of a prominent Southern family. At an early date in the present century William Arnold emigrated with his wife from Newberry district, South Carolina, to Warren County, Ohio, locating on a tract of wild land on Caesar's Creek, where they continued to reside for a time, after which they settled at Greenville, in the same State, where the father of our subject again identified himself with agricultural (sic) pursuits, in which line of operations he continued during the remainder of his life, his efforts being attended with a due quota of success. He became a man of considerable prominence and influence in the county and State, having served for a number of years as County Commissioner and having gained the confidence and high esteem of the community which sincerely mourned his death, which occurred after he had attained the venerable age of eighty-six years.

He continued in this business with slight intervals for nearly twenty years, being succeeded by his son, Henry C., who has since done a large and successful business. It is some gratification to know that in all these years of business life neither himself nor son have ever suspended or made an assignment (sic.). In 1870 he was the Republican nominee for the State Senate, running ahead of his ticket, but the district being Democratic, he was defeated. In 1872 he was an aspirant for nomination as Secretary of State before the Republican State Convention, and was second on the list of four candidates, but was defeated. In 1877 Mr. Arnold was appointed a delegate to the National Republican Convention by the Indiana State Republican Convention, where he attended and was a participant in the exciting scenes in that body, resulting in the nomination of R. B. Hayes for President, giving his support for Morton as long as there was hope for him; but when that hope died he went over to Hayes. This was a time of the most intense excitement. In 1872, in his absence, he was appointed a lay delegate to the Annual Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Muncie.

The youthful days of our subject were passed upon the parental homestead in Ohio, and it is needless to say that he early became familiar with the manifold details which entered into the reclamation and cultivation of a pioneer farm, this formative period in his life being one that has had its influence upon his entire subsequent career, since he then learned the value of consecutive endeavor and to appreciate that sturdy independence which is ever begotten under such circumstances and environments. His initial scholastic discipline was received in the district schools, and he continued his efforts in this line until he had acquired a thorough common-school education, supplementing this by a course of study in certain special branches, including surveying, in which line he became a practical operative and followed the same as a vocation for some time. As a means to an end, and yet with a full appreciation of the responsibility and duty implied, he engaged in teaching school for several years, principally in Darke and Miami counties, being successful in his pedagogic work and wielding a strong and valuable influence over those who came to him for instruction. Just when budding ambition gave itself a definite aim it is difficult to say, but certain it is that our subject looked out and beyond the narrowed mental horizon of the farm home, which was one in which culture and refinement were not absent, and one in which aspirations for a wider sphere of usefulness were readily enkindled. Mr. Arnold's determination was of that sort that only waited for a suitable opportunity before exercising its functions, and, as will be shown in succeeding paragraphs, he had sufficient wisdom to take advantage of an opportunity at its first presentation.

While still residing in Ohio our subject was united in marriage to Miss Ann Maria Welty, the date of this ceremony having been November 10, 1840. The offspring of this union were three children: Henry Clay, Sarah L. and Charles A. -- all of whom are still living. About three years after his marriage Mr. Arnold removed to Whitley County, Indiana, and he there located on a farm, if such it might be called, in a section which as yet had been but slightly opened to settlement and which had shown but little metamorphosis from the primitive, sylvan wilds. The Indians still disputed dominion with the white settlers and with the beasts of the field, and they were frequent visitors of the little cabin home of our subject, a fact which is difficult to realize on the part of one who is permitted to meet him in these later days, when that section of the State has to its credit fields that have long been furloughed and re-furloughed by the plowshare and which show the unmistakable pieces of evidence of the enlightened spirit of the nineteenth century. On this farm Mr. Arnold continued to reside about five years, devoting himself to its improvement and cultivation, and incidentally putting his knowledge of surveying to practical use, as the country was yet new and its boundary lines not well established-thus necessitating the services of a practical surveyor. But the ambition of Mr. Arnold still transcended the scope of the farm, and accordingly, in 1848, he removed to Columbia City, the county seat of Whitley County, and there secured employment in the mercantile establishment of Henry Swihart, with whom he remained for one year, at the expiration of which time he purchased the stock and business and continued the enterprise upon his own responsibility. The business methods at that time were radically different from those now in vogue, and the principal field of operations opened to the country merchant was that of selling merchandise to the farmers and accepting in delayed payment a requisite quantity of pork in the packing season. Thus the business conducted by our subject was not upon the cash basis, since he accepted his pay in the commodity mentioned, in the majority of cases, and then shipped the produce to the Eastern markets as it was delivered in the winter season, and thus realized his profits. He was eminently successful in his mercantile business under these circumstances, which would be considered somewhat extraordinary at the present time, and he continued operations in Columbia City until 1856 when he disposed of his interests and removed to Bluffton, where he has ever since maintained his residence. Here he purchased the establishment of John Studabaker, who was one of the pioneers of the county, and who had been engaged in the mercantile business at this point for nearly a score of years. Mr. Arnold had proved his adaptability for this line of enterprise, and he continued to conduct a mercantile trade here, with but slight intermission, for nearly two decades, after which he was succeeded by his son, Henry C. Arnold. So long an association with the business interests of any community cannot fail to bring either reward or obloquy, and the sterling integrity and correct methods of our subject could not fail to ensure to him the confidence and esteem of those with whom he had dealings. Not only this, but his was the native talent of a leader and a promoter, and his efforts were not confined within narrow personal confines, but he took initiative ground and was able to soon exercise an influence upon the public thought and action.

In 1878 Mr. Arnold entered upon a diametrically different field of endeavour, but one in which his practical ability and his broad intellectuality had a wider sphere of action. He purchased the Bluffton Chronicle, the approved organ of the Republican party in Wells county, and was thereafter identified with its publication and its editorial policy until the spring of I889 when he disposed of the property and retired from active business. In January 1880, Mr. Arnold was appointed, by President Hayes, as Postmaster of Bluffton, and during the period of his incumbency in this office, over four years, his newspaper interests were placed in charge of his son, Charles, whose able management was such as to maintain the high standard which our subject had established in the publication of the Chronicle. Mr. Arnold made his paper a decided pourer in the political affairs of northeastern Indiana, and his ability as a writer, his critical acumen and his cogency in argument gave distinctive weight to his editorial utterances, while his practical business ideas were brought to bear in the conducting of the enterprise, which was made a successful one, the Chronicle being a genuine representative of the best interests of the county and city of its publication.

In his political adherency, Mr. Arnold was originally a Whig, having been an ardent admirer of that distinguished statesman, Henry Clay. While yet occupying a clerical position in Whitley County he became the nominee of his party for the office of County Auditor, but was defeated by ten votes, running thirty-two votes ahead of the ticket, a fact that he has always considered as a blessing in disguise, since had he then been installed in office he might never have directed his efforts in those commercial lines where he has gained so distinctive success. He continued his allegiance to the Whig party until its dissolution and then identified himself with its normal successor, the Republican party, whose principles and policies he has ever since supported, having been a valuable worker in the cause. From 1844 to 1846 he served as County Surveyor of Whitley county, and Notary Public. In 1870 Mr. Arnold was the Republican nominee for Senator of his district in the State Senate, but as the normal Democratic majority in the district was very large he was defeated, though he ran- far ahead of his ticket at the polls. In 1872 he yielded to the solicitations of his party friends and consented to allow his name to be presented in the convention as a candidate for Secretary of State, and in said convention he was second on the list of four candidates but was defeated. In 1877 Mr. Arnold was a delegate to the National Republican Convention, in which, with the remainder of the delegation from Indiana, he gave his support to Oliver P. Morton until it became evident that Mr. Morton could not receive the nomination, and he then cast his vote for Rutherford B. Hayes for President.

In religion, our subject is a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in 1872 he was appointed a lay delegate to the annual conference of the church. He has ever taken a lively interest in the work of the church and has given aid and influence to many of its collateral charities and benevolences, not confining his efforts to the one denomination alone, but having manifested a marked liberality in all lines where good was to be accomplished.

A grievous loss was that which came to Mr. Arnold on the 16th of February, 1889, when his devoted and cherished wife was summoned into eternal rest. She was a woman of gentle refinement and beautiful character, and she had so lived as to gain the esteem and love of a very large circle of acquaintances. She had been for many years a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and hers was the faith that makes faithful. September 3, 1890, Mr. Arnold consummated a second marriage, being then united to Mrs. Angel Clark, who presides with gracious dignity over his attractive home. Mrs. Arnold is a member of the Methodist Church, and is active in all good work.

Memorial Record of Northeastern Indiana. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Company, 1896, pp. 151-157

Moses Arnold resides in Harrison Township and is engaged in farming and stock-raising. He was married in Medina County, Ohio, in the year 1844, and removed to Wells county in 1845. His wife, Mary Ann Bartlemay, was the mother of four children: John, born in July 1845, died of sickness while serving in the late war, he has taken the place of his father, who was drafted; William, October --, 1846, is a resident of Lancaster township; Jacob, April --, 1848, deceased; Melinda, December --, 1849, is a resident of Jefferson township. The second Mrs. Arnold, (Melinda Johnson), was born in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania, in the year 1830. Her children are: Adam, born April 1, 1852; Ellen, September 8, 1853, deceased; Sarah Ann, January 3, 1855; Eli and Elijah, January 12, 1857; Harry, May 1, 1859; Edward, August 22, 1861; George, September 6, 1863; Chloe E., November 13, 1865; Allen, January 30, 1868; Mary Jane, November 27, 1871; Ida May, June 15, 1874. Moses Arnold is a son of Jacob and Chloe (Maddox) Arnold. He was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, in the year 1820. His father entered the farm on which Moses resides in the Fall of 1837, it is at that time densely covered with timber, Fort Wayne the best and nearest market. Being possessed of limited means, it was with the closest economy that Mr. Arnold saved enough to buy a team. His farm is cleared, with the exception of sixty acres, and his orchard, now bearing fruit, came from the seed brought by him from Ohio. Address, Bluffton, Wells County, Indiana.

Historical Hand Atlas - History of Wells County, Indiana - Published 1881

William C. Arnold was born February 15, 1853 in Vera Cruz, Wells county, Indiana, and is the son of August and Augusta (Jan) Arnold, who were natives of Saxony, Germany, where they were married and whence they came to America in 1846. The father, who was a tailor, followed his trade for a short time in Ohio, as he did also for five years at Vera Cruz, Indiana. In 1853 he traded for forty acres of woodland in Adams county, paying a small difference in cash, and there he passed the remainder of his life, dying in April, 1865, leaving a widow (who died in 1899) with seven children, viz: Frank, a farmer in Adams county; Malinda, widow of Christopher ASHBAUCHER; Charles a resident of Wells county; William C; Sarah, wife of Robert CASE, of Adams county; Louis, a resident also of Wells county, and Ella, who was married to George F. MARKLEY, but is now deceased.

W. C. Arnold attended the public schools until he was seventeen years of age, but his oldest brother being in the army, the care of the family fell chiefly on him and his brother Charles. At the age mentioned he began to work in the saw-mill of Hull & Blackstone, in Harrison township, and for four years performed his duty faithfully and to the satisfaction of is employers. He was next employed by Charles COLE in a saw-mill in Liberty township, holding the position nineteen years. He purchased property in Liberty Center in 1881 and built for himself a neat dwelling. In 1886 he purchased thirty acres, besides which he owns a valuable tract adjoining the village. February 15, 1901, Mr. Arnold bought the half interest of A. B. TINKLE in the hardware store in Liberty Center, since when he has been associated with James W. JACKSON in a lucrative trade in a general stock of assorted hardware.

Mr. Arnold followed farming in Wells County until 1867, with the exception of the time spent in the service of his country, and in the fall of that year he bought an interest in a general mercantile store at Montpelier, Blackford County, Indiana, to which place he removed. He remained in Montpelier eight years, and the last two years spent there he carried on the business alone. He then moved to his farm near the old homestead in Jackson Township, where he followed agricultural pursuits four years, after which he spent one year in the mercantile business at Dundee. He then started a store on his farm, which he conducted four years. He then carried on business at Five Points about twenty months, when he removed to Mount Zion, where he had established a store in February, 1885, and by his fair and honest dealings and genial and accommodating manners he has gained the respect and confidence of his customers, and built up a good trade.

October 13, 1876, Mr. Arnold was married to Miss Isabella HIGMAN a native of Wells county, born June 23, 1858, a daughter of Clem and Martha Higman, natives of Virginia but both now deceased, the mother having passed the closing years of life at the home of Mr. Arnold. Mr. and Mrs. Arnold have two children: Martha, who is married to George RUSSELL, a farmer of Wells county, and has two children, Gerold and Ruth Irene; and Louis. Mr. and Mrs. Arnold are members of the Baptist church, of which he is trustee and to the support of which they freely contribute. He is also a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge at Liberty Center, of which he has served as treasurer during his entire membership, and he is likewise a member of the encampment at Bluffton. He is a life-long Democrat. For five years he served as assessor of Liberty township, and was then elected trustee, a position he also held for five years. During his incumbency of this office the school-houses at Liberty Center and Poneto were erected, and these schools, being graded, are considered among the best in the county. In every position he has performed his duty conscientiously and with credit to himself as well as to the satisfaction of all.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells Co., IN, 1903, B. F. Bowen, Publisher, Pg 547
Submitted by Colleen Rutledge

HEZEKIAH ALLEN was born in Montgomery County, New York, October 6, 1807, a son of Ebenezer and Abigail (Slocum) Allen. The father was born on the Isle of Prudence, Rhode Island, and was a son of Rev. William Allen, who married Mollie Fairbanks. They were residents of Rhode Island during the Revolutionary war, and most of their property was destroyed by the British soldiers at that time. Commodore Perry was a classmate of Ebenezer Allen, and a strong friendship existed between them. Ebenezer Allen married Abigail Slocum previous to his location in Montgomery County. They had fourteen children-William, Sallie, Samuel, Sebra, Rachel, Ebenezer, Henry, Hezekiah, Stephen, Abbie, Jonathan, Rhoda, Mary and Matthew. The family settled in Wethersfield, Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1818, where the father entered a tract of woodland and lived there for several years, and where the mother died. Later the family removed to Jackson Township. Ebenezer's second wife was Jane Wochard, and they had one daughter-Lydia. Ebenezer returned to York State, and while there was married to Sallie Card. They returned to Ohio and settled in Fowler, where his death occurred in a few years.

Our subject was eleven years of age when his people settled in Trumbull County. He early learned to work, as his father was a poor man with a large family. He distinctly remembers the war of 1812, and the soldiers on their way to Sackett's Harbor passed through the field in which the children were hoeing corn. Hezekiah worked by the day at odd jobs, until he was eighteen years of age, then began working on the Cuyahoga Canal. For several years he was engaged in building different canals, and was twenty-nine years of age before his marriage with Sarah Rinear, daughter of Rev. Edmund and Mary (Norcross) Rinear, who were natives of New Jersey. The marriage of our subject took place November 10, 1836, and the young couple began housekeeping on a tract of land in Jackson Township. Their children born in Ohio were-Jonathan, Mary J., Ransom, Elizabeth (deceased) and Isaac. After the family came to Indiana in 1847, Hannah and Rhoda were born. Their location was made in Jefferson Township, and the family moved into a log cabin that was built by Matthew Allen. The lands were all cleared after the family settled, and were entered by Mr. Allen on the Indian Reserve. The patents for 236 acres were signed by President Zachary Taylor. The woods were full of deer, turkeys and squirrels, and Mr. Allen was a great lover of the chase. He has killed 140 deer, besides other game in large quantities. One of the most ferocious animals ever seen in Wells County was killed by Mr. Allen. It had been seen many times by different individuals, and had chased George Eddy the same season it was killed. Mr. Allen had a large bull-dog which was as noted in the neighborhood as was his master. The animal came into the stockyard, and was soon discovered by Mr. Allen and his dog, which caught the animal just as he was getting through the fence. Armed with a club, Mr. Allen ran to the rescue and soon knocked it senseless. Recovering somewhat, Mr. Allen caught it by the neck, opened his knife with his teeth, and cut the animal's throat. This desperate encounter occurred about three o'clock in the morning, when every neighbor was at home and asleep; but the neighborhood was rid of a genuine terror. Many persons came to see the carcass, which was afterward skinned and the hide tanned, and was used a long time by Mr. Allen for a saddle blanket, always proud of his trophy.

All their children are married except Jonathan. Mary J. became the wife of Jacob Clark; Ransom married Elizabeth Todd; Isaac became the husband of Nancy Wilson, and Emma married Perkins Scott. All have children. Mr. Allen has been three times married. His second wife was formerly Elizabeth Hashman, and they had two children-Ida and Jasper N. The third wife was Mrs. Mary A. (Jennings) Reed, who had one child-Emma, now the wife of Pearl Scott. Ransom and Isaac were soldiers during the late civil war. Ransom was a member of the Thirtieth Indiana, and Isaac of the Seventy-fifth Indiana Infantry. Ransom was slightly wounded during his term of service, but Isaac received no wound, although he was in some of the severest battles of the war. The aged sire was as full of patriotism as were his sons, and offered his services, but his sons were before him in getting their names on the muster roll, and he was forced to remain. After his return from the war, Isaac married the sister of his rnessmate, Cyrus Wilson. They have two children living-Sarah and Cyrus.

Our subject is now over eighty years old, and one of the most voluble and interesting talkers in the township. He is one of the old-time story-tellers, and dearly loves his pipe. He is as fond of a fishing-rod as a youth of seventeen. He was one of the founders of the Republican party in this county, and voted for their first candidate. His first presidential vote was cast for John Quincy Adams against Andrew Jackson.

Biographical and historical record of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1887, pp. 854-855.

MATTHEW ALLEN, deceased, was the youngest child of Ebenezer and Abigail (Batty) Allen, and was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, October, 26, 1820. He came to Jefferson Township in 1848, and entered a quarter section of land on the Indian Reserve, and also entered a quarter section for his brother Hezekiah. The latter built a cabin for his family prior to their removal to this county. Matthew was a single man when he came, and three years later married Amelia Goff. They had two children, both dying in infancy. Mrs. Allen died January 27, 1862, and January 28, 1869, Matthew married Miss Mary J. Hoopengardner, daughter of Lewis and Elizabeth (Hage) Hoopengardner, natives of Pennsylvania and of German ancestry. Peter, the great-grandfather of Elizabeth Hage, was born in Germany, and was the first of that name to immigrate to America. He settled in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where the mother of Mrs. Allen was born. After the death of his wife Mr. Allen enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Indiana Infantry. Returning home after his discharge, he purchased the farm upon which his wife now resides, and erected a handsome brick residence. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Allen were Almira E., Lafayette L. and Rhoda M.

Matthew was a quiet, unassuming man, and, with the exception of supervisor of roads, would not be a candidate for official positions. After being well settled in life and having a beautiful home, with the joys that come to those surrounded by a happy family and loving wife, he was seized with an illness that terminated his existence December 31, 1879. His family are in independent circumstances, and are very highly esteemed among their neighbors and friends.

Biographical and historical record of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1887, pp. 867-868.

RANSOM ALLEN, of Jefferson Township, engaged in farming and dealing in agricultural implements, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, March 15, 1842. His parents, Hezekiah and Sarah (Rinear) Allen, were natives of Montgomery County, New York, and Columbiana County, Ohio, respectively. They came to Wells County, Indiana, with their family November 17, 1847, and here our subject was reared on the home farm, his father being a farmer by occupation, and received his education in the schools of his district. His boyhood days were spent in assisting his father clear away the heavy forest and in tilling the soil. August 5, 1861, he enlisted in Company A, Thirteenth Indiana Infantry, under Captain (afterward Colonel) Hurd, and served during the entire war, re-enlisting in the veteran service January 6, 1864. He participated in the battles of Shiloh, Claysville, La Vergne, Stone River, Chickamauga, Wilson's Creek, Pulaski, Triune, Middleton, Liberty Gap, Tullahoma, Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, Franklin and Nashville, besides many skirmishes, and was with Sherman on his Atlanta campaign of 120 days of constant skirmishing and fighting, taking part in every battle in which his regiment was engaged during his four years and four months service. At the battle of Shiloh, April 7, 1862, he was wounded in the right hand. September 19, 1863, at the battle of Chickamauga, he was wounded in the right side of the face, the missile penetrating the flesh and striking the bone. While on the Atlanta campaign, in June, 1864, his comrade, Robert Swan, was wounded while his arm was resting on Mr. Allen's shoulder, the ball passing entirely through the body and penetrating the right lung. On the same campaign, July 4, 1864, another comrade, Joseph Vosher, was shot and instantly killed while lying on the ground beside Mr. Allen. During the months of January, February and March, 1865, Mr. Allen was on a march through the mountains of East Tennessee. From there he was sent to New Orleans, thence to Texas, where he was discharged at Goliad, that State, November 24, 1865, reaching home December 17, 1865.

He was married February 15, 1866, to Miss Elizabeth Ellen Todd, who was born December 22, 1847, the fifth daughter of Jacob and Jane (Thomas) Todd. The following children have been born to them-Victor Uriah, born March 9, 1867, died April 17, 1867; Lulu Jane, born May 3, 1868; Wealthy Adell, born January 22, 1871, and Don Stanly Hezekiah, born October 25, 1877.

In politics Mr. Allen is a Republican, and takes an active interest in the party of his choice. He held the office of postmaster at Ossian from September, 1879, until September, 1881. He is a member of Ossian Lodge, No. 297, A. F. & A. M., and also belongs to William Swaim Post, No. 169, G. A. R. Mr. Allen is an earnest, energetic business man, and an enterprising public-spirited citizen, and is always ready and willing to aid in all things that tend to the public good, and in all benevolent enterprises. He and his excellent wife are well known for their hospitality.

Biographical and historical record of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1887, pp. 925-926.

BENJAMIN ASHBAUCHER, dealer in pianos, organs and sewing machines at Bluffton, Indiana, is a native of Wayne County, Ohio, born at Orrville, October 19, 1859, the youngest of six sons of John and Anna (Shene) Ashbaucher, natives of Canton Berne, Switzerland, where they were married, and in 1856 came to the United States. They lived in Ohio until 1863, when they moved to French Township, Adams County, Indiana, where they still live. They are members of the German Reformed church at Vera Cruz, Wells County.

Benjamin Ashbaucher remained with his parents until 1882, when he entered the employ of H. C. Arnold at Bluffton, and in 1883 engaged in his present business. When but seventeen years of age, while still at home, be began to teach in the schools of French Township, and taught five winter and two summer terms. In 1880 he was elected constable of his township by the Democratic party, and served two years. Mr. Ashbaucher was married August 10, 1882, to Miss Louisa Saurer, daughter of Gotleib and Elizabeth (Moser) Saurer, of French Township, Adams County. Mr. and Mrs. Ashbaucher have one child, Edward, born February 7, 1884. They are members of the English Reformed church at Bluffton. Mr. Ashbaucher is a member of Bluffton Lodge, No. 1838, K. of H.

Biographical and historical record of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1887, p. 1008.

One of the bravest ex-soldiers of the Civil war and now a respected resident of Liberty Center, Wells county, Indiana, is Joseph Awkerman, who was born in Wayne county, Ohio, October 1, 1839. His father, also named Joseph, was a native of Berne, Switzerland, came to America when still quite young, and married at a proper age Miss Mary Osenbaugh, a native of Northampton county, Pennsylvania. He was called away, however, when but twenty-eight years of age, leaving Joseph, the subject proper of this sketch, then but three months old, to the care of his mother, who died when the son was only three and a half years of age.

Joseph Awkerman, Sr., at the death of his mother was placed in the care of a so-called guardian, who never even furnished the child with a pair of shoes nor clothing enough to cover him decently. The case was so aggravated a one that the boy was persuaded to run away from his guardian by a friend who had secured a home for him, where his services were rewarded with good board and clothes and five dollars in cash per year, that is, the equivalent of five American dollars. He was an industrious and faithful lad, always found plenty of work to do, and as he grew older his pay was increased proportionately. The last year he worked in Switzerland he received twelve dollars per month, but the next year, when he demanded thirteen dollars, his demand was refused. About this time he was informed that there was a party being made up for migration to America and he decided to join it. In 1817 he landed in New York, but for some reason he and his fellow passengers were reshipped on the same vessel to Philadelphia, where he was landed with no funds whatever. A kind stranger, becoming aware of the fact, furnished the young Switzer with four dollars and with this sum the latter paid his passage to Pittsburg, near which city he secured work on a farm, and remained thereon for two years. From Pennsylvania Mr. Awkerman removed to Ohio and for a while worked on a farm in Columbiana county, and later in a grist-mill for the same employer. He had made up his mind to come further west, when a proposition was made to him to clear up a fifteen-acre tract, a certain quantity of land to be given him as pay for his labor. But he heard that land could be had from the government further west at a much lower figure, and he accordingly gathered together all his available means and went to Wayne county, Ohio, where he entered eighty acres in the forest. There Mr. Awkerman built a cabin in which he lived alone four years, and then, about 1827, married Mary Osenbaugh, a daughter of Henry Osenbaugh, of Pennsylvania.

Mary Osenbaugh was but fourteen years of age when her parents came from the east and first located in Fairfield county, Ohio, whence they removed to Wayne county, Ohio, where Henry Osenbaugh and wife passed the remainder of their days. After marriage Joseph and Mary (Osenbaugh) Awkerman settled on the farm he had entered, and there had eleven children born to them, namely: A daughter, who died in infancy; Sarah, who died when seven years old; Elizabeth, who died at three; Catherine, widow of David Shreiner, of Medina county, Ohio; Susanna, deceased wife of William H. Funk, of Bluffton, Indiana; John, of Medina county, Ohio; Anna, deceased; Joseph, whose name opens this biography; Lovina, deceased; Rachael, wife of Levi Cross, of Michigan; and Henry, who has his residence also in Medina county, Ohio. Joseph Awkerman, the father of the above enumerated children, passed away November 23, 1863, and the mother November 15, 1877.

Joseph Awkerman, of this sketch, attended the district schools in Wayne county, Ohio, until twenty-one years of age and then worked at carpentering until the summer of 1862, when he enlisted, August 9, in Company E, One Hundred and Second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in which he served three years. He never had a part in any very severe battle, but participated in many lively skirmishes and was in one siege of four days' duration. He was honorably mustered out June 30, 1865, and Mr. Awkerman stoutly maintains that his company never was conquered until it reached Todd's Barrack, at Columbus, Ohio, where it was completely routed by bed bugs and compelled to sleep in the yard.

When Mr. Awkerman reached his home, he found that his father had passed away, and his mother was just preparing for harvesting. Joseph therefore passed the remainder of the season in working for her and her neighbors, and the next year worked at his trade all summer. In the spring of 1867 he came to Liberty township, Wells county, Indiana, and in just two years and four days after arriving here purchased the farm of eighty acres on which he now lives and for which he paid nine hundred dollars, of which amount three hundred dollars was in cash; for the balance, he gave three notes, of two hundred dollars respectively, at twelve, twenty-four and thirty-six months, two of which notes he paid promptly when due, but the third he was thirty-three dollars short just at the time, but made it all right in a few days. After purchasing his farm, Mr. Awkerman continued to work at his trade in summer and in a saw-mill and at other kind of labor in winter, and thus was able to earn the means with which to pay for his farm, continuing to work in the same manner for ten years.

Mr. Awkerman was united in marriage, February 1, 1877, at St. Mary's, Ohio, with Miss Cynthia B. Bireley, who was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, April 8, 1837, a daughter of Lewis and Marv Bireley, the former of whom was born in Maryland, and the latter in Franklin county, Pennsylvania. Cynthia B., the daughter of this respected and honored couple, was but seven years of age when taken to Ohio by her parents, who settled in Miami county, where she grew to maturity. There were five children in the Bireley family, born in the following order; Elnora, now deceased; Rebecca; William, deceased; Susan, deceased, and Cynthia B., now Mrs. Awkerman. At his marriage, Mr. Awkerman began housekeeping in a log cabin, eighteen by twenty-four feet in dimension on the ground floor, with two rooms upstairs. They had made some bed clothing, on "the sly," and Mrs. Awkerman brought the bed, the chairs, a rocker, a cupboard, a table and several other little articles of household furniture. Mr. Awkerman had no team at that time, but in the following November bought two horses and a wagon and began farming, relinquishing carpenter work as much as possible. Two or three years after marriage, on one occasion, Mr. Awkerman found himself to be rather hard pressed for cash, but was told by his wife that it was absolutely necessary to have flour. The young husband was somewhat nonplussed, but put a bold face on and went to Poneta and secured some flour from John Penrod on credit, this being the only time in his life that he was really "hard up."

Mr. Awkerman continued farming until 1884, when he succumbed to ill health contracted in the army and was unable to do any work until the middle of October following. Up to this attack of sickness every thing on the farm had worked auspiciously, but he was compelled to rent his farm and retire to Poneto. His residence in the town had a continuance of three years, but in the second year of this period he secured, in recognition of his military service, a pension of sixteen dollars per month and back pay for eighteen months, and this sum put him out of debt, nor does he owe any man a dollar. In 1887 Mr. Awkerman returned to his farm, over which he still keeps supervision, but rents out the arable portion to John Wineland. The farm is improved with a handsome dwelling, a good barn, and one thousand one hundred and fifty rods of tiling, and with the exception of seven acres is all cleared off and under cultivation.

Mr. Awkerman is a member of the Dunkard church and Mrs. Awkerman is a member of the Methodist Protestant, and of the former he is a member of the building committee and a trustee. In politics Mr. Awkerman is a Republican, but was reared a Democrat, and the change was brought by the first slave he ever saw and who preached Democracy out of him. Mr. and Mrs. Awkerman are among the most respected of the residents of Liberty Center, and for his present elevated position Mr. Awkerman does not hesitate to award to his faithful helpmate a full share of praise and credit.

Biographical Memoirs of Wells County, Indiana. B.F. Bowen, Logansport, Indiana, 1903, pp. 350-352