Parke County Indiana Biographies - B

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 BAER

John R. BAER, who has been an active factor in business and official circles but is now living retired in Oskaloosa, is a native son of Indiana, having been born in Rockville, Parke County, on 11 March 1839.  His father, George W. Baer, was a native of Virginia and when a young man went to Ohio where he remained until after his marriage to Elizabeth Lundy, native of that state.  Soon, however, they removed to Parke County, Indiana and in 1843, went to Sarcoxie, Missouri.  In the fall of 1845, they came to Oskaloosa which was then a small village having few business enterprises and but a small number of houses. The father followed the tailor's trade for a short time and then engaged in general merchandising while alter he bought sold and shipped stock for many years.  In this way he accumulated a handsome competency but he lost his capital by financially accommodating a friend.  In early life he was an old-line Whig and under the laws of Iowa filled the office of collector and treasurer of the county for one term, acting in the latter capacity 1847-48.  He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and died in that faith in 1892 at the age of 78.  His wife, an earnest Christian woman passed away May 1855 when 35, dying of cholera.  In their family were 7 children of whom 3 are living: John R; Amelia, who is the widow of Reason Wilson of Oskaloosa; and George W. of the Indian Territory.  Those deceased: Rebecca, wife of John W. Murphy; Mary; Martha Henrietta and Loyd.   George W. Baer had two children: Elizabeth the wife of LD Fowler of Washington D. C. and Byron of Nebraska.  John R. Baer was educated in the public schools and when a boy began clerking for the firm of Hardy, Searle & Young with whom he remained 3 years.  He afterward spent two years on his father's farm in Oskaloosa Township and was next employed by Benjamin Roop until spring of 1860 when he drove across the country with ox teams to a town 75 miles west of Denver, Colorado there prospecting for gold. In the fall, however, he returned in the same manner to Oskaloosa, being 52 days on the outgoing trip and 31 on the return.  He then became a clerk for George M. Downs of this city the store being on the present site of the courthouse. In the previous fall he cast a vote for Abraham Lincoln which was his first ballot.  He continued clerking until 15 July 1861. On that date Mr. Baer, responding to his country's call for troops, became a member of Company C, 7th Iowa Volunteer Infantry which was the 2nd company raised in Mahaska County. He was present with his regiment at the capture of Forts Henry and Donelson, in the battle of Shiloh and the siege and battle of Corinth.  He also participated in the battle at Pulaski, Tennessee where he was detailed for service in the commissary department under Capt. Palmer and Hon. C. C. Carpenter, ex-governor of Iowa and thus acted until mustered out 10 August 1864 at Chattanooga, Tennessee.  When the war was over Mr. Baer returned to Oskaloosa and clerked for the firm of Jones & Tullis in a general store for two years. In the meantime Mr. Tullis purchased his partner's interest and Mr. Baer bought the interest of John W. Tullis and the firm of Tullis & Baer was formed and so continued for a year.  At the end of that time our subject sold his interest to his partner and began dealing in stock which he bought and shipped for 3 years. He next removed to Beacon, this county where he became a clerk in the coal company's store owned by the firm of Evans, Jones & Baer, the last name being his father. After 3 years the father sold out and John R. withdrew from the store and joined his father in the partnership of Baer & Son.  Two years later the father sold his interest to JP Davis and the firm of Davis & Baer existed one and a half years.  The junior partner then returned to Oskaloosa and became a bookkeeper in the hardware store of C. Cooper, by whom he was employed for two years.  He was next deputy sheriff of Mahaska County for a year and a half under Sheriff Barr, and when his former employer sold his hardware store to WH Todd, Mr. Baer returned to the store where he acted as bookkeeper for a year when the business was sold to Knapp & Spaulding. Mr. Baer then went upon the road as a traveling salesman until the fall of 1885 when he was elected on the republican ticket to the position of county auditor, which he filled 4 years, proving a capable official and retired from the office as he had entered it - with the confidence and good will of all concerned. Reentering commercial life, he went upon the road for George Hall & Co, wholesale hardware dealers with whom he continued for 2 years and later on the road for Huber & Kalbach Company, hardware dealers 2 years.  He afterward served as deputy county auditor under JB Cruzen and WT Martin, filling the office for 8 years or until January 1905, since which time he has lived retired. On 8 November1866, Mr. Baer was married to Miss Frances Carnahan, native of Ohio who died in1900 at age 52.  Their children: Nellie A, wife of CC pike of Oskaloosa; Grace L, wife of C. W. Carr of the same city; Bernice L.  Mr. Baer belongs to Triluminar lodge No 18, AF & AM, having been made a Mason in 1866.  He also holds membership relations with Phil Kearney post GAR and in politics is a stalwart republican, having stood loyally by the party which was the chief defense of the Union and of the administration during the dark days of the Civil War.  He is a representative citizen of the town and county, interested in all movements which are a matter of civic pride, and his efforts in behalf of general improvement and progress have been effective and far reaching. - Past & Present of Mahaska County Iowa.  Chicago: S. J. Clarke, 1906, Page 137

BAKER

Elsewhere in these pages occur references to Samuel Nixon BAKER, who emigrated from Shelby County, Kentucky to Parke County in 1830.  He was born December 16, 1799 and died July 17, 1860.  He was married to Catherine MOORE in 1827.  She was born at Shelbyville June 11, 1801 and was the daughter of Abram Moore.  Catherine Moore was a real "daughter of the Revolution" and at least a "sister" of the War of 1812. Her father, who was born in Lancaster Co Pennsylvania September 4, 1756 enlisted in Capt. William Washington's company of Minute Men at Shepherdstown Virginia April 29, 1775 - just 10 days after the battle of Lexington and as soon as the news could reach Virginia.  He re-enlisted in Col. Smallwood's regiment in Jan 1776 while serving with the army then besieging Boston.  He was in the battle of Long Island and crossed the Delaware with Washington December 25, 1776; reenlisted July 1, 1777 in Capt. David Poore's company at Frederick, Maryland for six weeks.  Applied for pension 1833, pension granted June 10, 1833 Shelby County, Kentucky.  Such is the military record of Catherine Baker's father in the U. S. War Dept; but her brother, John Moore who left home with his Kentucky. comrades when Catherine was 11 has no record beyond the word "missing."  He was last seen by his comrades at the Battle of the River Raising January 1813, among the prisoners, and that night many of these were massacred by Indians. The children of Samuel N. and Catherine baker were Mary Frances (Strose); James Henry; John William; Samuel Nixon; Elizabeth (Catlin); Charles Holiday and George Clark.  Their second son was Lt. John W. Baker of the 14th Indiana Regiment. James H. and Charles H. are living in Rockville.  Samuel and Catherine Baker were zealous members of the Methodist Church in Rockville. Catherine died February 21, 1863 and at her funeral the Rev. William Y. Allen who was born one year before Catherine Moore's birth in the same town and had known her for almost 80 years said a beautiful tribute to the playmate of his childhood and the exemplary Christian woman whom everybody held in veneration.  - 1816-1916 Parke County Indiana Centennial Memorial.  Rockville: Rockville Chautauqua Association, 1916, Page 103

BALDRIDGE

BALDRIDGE, John H, physician, Rosedale, was born November 9, 1840, in Morgansville, Morgan County, Ohio .  His father, John A. Baldridge, was born July 20, 1810 in Belmont County, Ohio .  His early days were spent in and around Morgansville on a farm.  His education was such as could be obtained at the common schools.  After leaving their father's farm he and his brother invested their money in a gristmill.  After one year's experience here he engaged in the mercantile business in Morgansville in connection with studying medicine, beginning in 1840.  He commenced the practice of his profession in 1841 or 1842, and has ever since held this as his principal occupation.  His first few years were spent in Morgansville and Harrietsville, leaving the latter place for Athens County, and this for Delaware, where he practiced two years.  In 1852 he moved to Sullivan County, Indiana, Jackson Township, and here purchased a farm, which he oversees in connection with his practice.  In 1834 he was married to Eliza LEEPER, and became the father of four children: Robert A, David L, John H and Eliza.  His wife died August 1843. Since the death of his first wife he married Mary LOVET.  They have had 4 children: John A, Eva, Emma and Lizzie.  He is a Presbyterian and a Republican.  Mr. Baldridge lived with his parents until he was 25 years of age, having prior to this time been engaged in assisting upon his father's farm and attending the district school of the country and that of Farmersburg.  He was studying medicine with his father until February 28, 1868 which marks the date of his arrival in Roseville to engage in the practice of medicine, which he continued until December 1875 at which time he moved to Terre Haute and for a short time was engaged in practice.  He is now stationed in Rosedale, where he has a splendid practice and is accepted by all as an excellent physician.  In the winter of 1872-3 he attended a course of lectures at the Cincinnati Eclectic Medical Institute and graduated from that institution February 4, 1873.  April 1, 1869, he was married to Gelena M. CHALLIS, eldest daughter of Ebenezer and Charlotte (GOOKINS) Challis.  By this union they have become the parents of 7 children: Arthur, Leonidas, Claude, Harley, Orin, Maud and Odus.  He is a Mason, joining at Roseville in 1873.  Mr. Baldridge was a member of Company D, 43 Indiana Volunteer. Infantry having enlisted at Terre Haute September 29, 1864 and was mustered out at Indianapolis June 14, 1865.  He is a strong republican, having for some time been central committeeman For Florida Township.

BALDWIN

Robert BALDWIN.  Among the influential and well-to-do farmers of Wabash Twp is Mr. Baldwin, who, five years ago, became the owner of a farm comprising 80 acres on Section 13 for which he paid $5,000.  The farm is all under good cultivation, and yields the owner an abundant income in return for the care bestowed upon it.  Very early in life he began to carve out his own fortune, working as a farm hand at 75 cents per day and the second year receiving $12.50 a month.  The last year of his hiring out to farmers he received $18 a month.  In 1877 he rented a farm which he carried on in connection with others for a number of years or until 1888, when as previously stated, he became the owner of his present farm.  Mr. Baldwin was born near Montezuma, Parke County December 10, 1858 and is a son of John and Sarah A. CLARK Baldwin.  Grandfather Baldwin emigrated from England in the colonial days and followed the trade of a wagon maker.  In the pioneer days, when Indiana was still a territory he came here from Ohio, dying in the village of New Harmony when at an advanced age.  His wife passed away at Grayville, Illinois after having attained an advanced age.  They reared a family of eight children: John; Abram; Edwin; William; Charles; Harriet wife of Hiram Dunning; Ester wife of Mr. Ferguson and Fanny, Mrs. Charles Russell. Our subject's father was born in Gibson Co and also followed the trade of a wagon maker.  About 1845 he removed to Montezuma where he carried on his trade until shortly before his death in 1871, at age 45, his wife surviving about 8 years and dying in January 1878.  She was the mother of 5: Jane, Mrs. F. M. Jacks of Custer County, Nebraska, William who died at age 24, leaving a son Edward; Frederick who died at age 31; James also a resident of Custer County, Nebraska and Robert.  Our subject's mother was born near Rockville, Parke County and was a daughter of Mr. Clark, who emigrated from England to the United States.  She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.  Robert Baldwin was reared in Montezuma and educated in the public schools.  He was only 11 when he left home to make his own living. On April 4, 1883, he married Miss Mary, daughter of James and Sarah Tucker Brockway.  Three children came to bless this home: Chauncey B; James F. and Ora M.  The devoted wife and mother was called from the bosom of her family by the death angel December 10, 1889.  She was an amiable and very lovable woman, an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.  On October 23, 1892, Mr. Baldwin and Miss Maggie FREEMAN were united in wedlock.  Mrs. Baldwin was born in Montgomery County, Indiana. Mr. Baldwin is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and is always found on the side of all movements tending to uplift or promote the welfare of his fellow citizens and the community at large. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana, Page. 342

Tyler S. BALDWIN came to Rockville in 1835 and became the partner of P. E. Harris in the dry goods and grocery business.  At that time this grocery store did the largest business in the county.  A few years later Mr. Harris retired and George W. Sill & James Depew became partners of Mr. Baldwin under the firm of Tyler S. Baldwin & Co.  Mr. Baldwin was, until his death, September 24, 1849, a man of great prominence in both county seat and county.  He built the brick residence which all older people of Rockville will remember at the south end of Jefferson St.  Here most of the family died.  All have tombstones in the old part of the Rockville cemetery.  With this exception there is nothing of record concerning a family once among the social leaders of this community. - Parke County Indiana Centennial Memorial, 1816-1916, Page 113

BALL

James T. BALL, MD makes his home in Judson, Parke County which has been his dwelling place since he began his professional career. When he began his practice of medicine he was $300 in debt for his school tuition but this amount he soon paid and has steadily laid by money for investment.  He has now a well improved farm near the village, quite a tract of land in Kansas and 3 desirable pieces of town property.  The Dr. was b. in this county near what is known as New Discover October 9, 1859 and is a son of James and Nancy A Johnson Ball. The father was born in KY and reared in Ohio.  Throughout life he followed the avocation of agriculturist.  He was 3 times married, our subject's mother being his 3rd wife.  Of his first union were 4 children: David, Mary, Abel, deceased and Sarah.  3 graced the 2nd marriage: two died in childhood and one, Dennis resides near Indianapolis.  Our subject is one of two children, his sister, Alice now deceased having been the wife of John M. Lucas. They had one daughter, Maud now 10 years of age, who is living with her uncle, the Dr.  James Ball died when our subject was only 2 and some time after his mother removed to Knox County, Indiana where she became the wife of Horace A. EDWARDS, who later moved to Sullivan County.  The mother's death occurred in 1881.  Dr. Ball was reared to manhood in Sullivan County where he received a common school education with which his ambition did not allow him to be satisfied, for, while still in his youth he laid the foundation of study and research which he has continued in the years that followed.  He began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. William A. Fleming at Pleasantville, Indiana in the winter of 1880 and the following autumn entered Cincinnati College of Medicine & Surgery.  3 years later he was graduated from that institution, where he took a special course in chemistry for which he received a special diploma.  The Dr. is a member of the Parke County Medical Society of the Mitchell District Medical Society and of the State & American Medical Associations.  To the conventions of the latter in many different states the Dr. has been made a delegate for several consecutive years.  After the completion of his collegiate course he located at once at Judson which has since been the field of his operations.  After having practiced 10 years, in the spring of 1893 he supplemented his medical studies by taking a post graduate course at Chicago, in the Chicago Polyclinic Hospital. At the home of the bride's parents, Robert and Amanda Clark, whose sketch appears elsewhere in the volume, in April 1884, was celebrated the marriage of Dr. Ball and Miss Emma M. Clark.  For 18 years our subject has been a member of the Baptist Church, and fraternally, belongs to Howard Lodge No. 71, IOOF of Rockville.  He is a Republican and in 1888 was chosen Trustee of his township by that party and reelected to the position 2 years later. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893.  Page 385

BALL, William E. farmer and stock dealer, Portland Mills, was born in Trimble County, Kentucky in 1831 and is the son of Henry and Nancy (WISE) Ball, both natives of Kentucky.  They immigrated to Indiana in 1837, and then to Iowa in 1854.  The former died February 15, 1880 and the latter in 1856.  Mr. Ball's maternal grandmother came to America from Germany.  He came to Parke County In 1852, and lodged for the first time in the county where he now lives.  In the same year he came to Parke County He was married to Ann BURNSIDE, daughter of William and Nancy (GHINN) Burnside.  She was born in Scott County, Indiana in 1834.  By this marriage he has 8 children: Nancy J; Robert R; Sarah E; William H; Mary E; Ida E; Flora A and John W, deceased.  He has held several times the most prominent offices of his township; in 1860-62 he was elected assessor; in 1865 he was appointed by the county commissioner’s real estate appraiser for Green Township and served as enrolling officer in Greene Township in 1863. Here he met with some resistance, but through his great presence of mind he performed his duty without any serious difficulty.  Mr. Ball was a soldier in Co. B, 115th Indiana Once while in the army he was detailed to bring 50 convalescent soldiers from Cumberland Gap to northern hospitals. The weather was cold, but few of the men could walk, and they were without rations or medicine, but perilous as the undertaking was, he succeeded.  Mr. Ball came to Parke County Without a dollar, but through good management and active industry he has acquired a good farm of 160 acres, which he has well stocked.  He and his wife are members of the Associate Presbyterian Church at Portland Mills.  (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill)

BANNON

BANNON, L. W., preacher, Russell's Mills, was born in Warren County, Ohio  in the year 1818.  His father, Michael Bannon, was a native of Pa. And came to Ohio  at a very early date, settling at Cincinnati when that city only consisted of 5 houses, and there opened a blacksmith shop, the first in the city.  In 1858, he moved to Indiana, settling in Sugar Creek Township, at Russell's Mills, which he rebuilt, and ran for four or five years.  He returned to Ohio  on a visit and died there about 1868.  Mr. Bannon received his early education at the primitive country school, and worked at the bricklaying business for many years, and during the last 30 years, has been a preacher of the Christian denomination.  In 1854, he settled in Montgomery Co this state, where he preached the gospel until 1870, when he removed to Parke County, locating in this township.  Since beginning to preach he has averaged over 100 sermons per annum; married over 300 couples, and preached over 150 funeral sermons.  In 1838, he married, in Ohio , Miss Livonia Ashley, daughter of Loama Ashley, one of the pioneer preachers of the Christian denominations in Ohio , and in 1860 he married his second wife, Miss Angeline Hellams, and has a family of 9 children, 5 by his first wife and four by his present; and Mr. Bannon is a member of Harveysburg Lodge, AF & AM and is a prominent member and past grand of Parke Lodge IOOF.  He was one of the organizers and first preachers of Pleasant Grove Christian Church in this township.  In politics he is entirely independent.  Taken from: 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana by J. H.  Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers. 

BANTA

BANTA, Jacob C.  Farmer, Waveland was born in Mercer County, Kentucky, July 14, 1817, and is the son of Garrett and Lana Banta.  His parents were natives in Kentucky; his grandfather, Peter Banta, was a pioneer settler in the state of Kentucky. The old log house built by his grandfather, in which he and his father were both born, stood still four years ago in a good state of preservation.  His maternal grandparents came to Kentucky. From New Jersey in the early settlement of the country.  The earliest legend respecting the Banta family is that the great, great, great grandfather of the subject of this sketch was of Dutch descent, his wife of the French, and that their descendants came to America in the time of its early colonization.  His mother's people were originally from Germany.  He was married in1 838 to Sarah W. Bingham, daughter of Joseph and Sophia (Janes) Bingham, pioneer settlers of Virginia.  By this union, he has 9 children: Sophia, married to James Owen; Mary L. Married to William T. Davis; Sarah F, married to Richard A. Watson, deceased; Joseph H, Laney E, deceased; John m, married to Amanda Pitman; and Charles W.  Charles W. And Joseph H. Remain at home.  Joseph H. was a member of the Howard Township Home Guards.  He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Waveland. He has all through his life preferred home to the honors of office.  He has a farm of 160 acres, mostly, cleared and fairly stocked.  (1880 History of Parke County, Indiana J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers).

BANTLEY

BANTLEY, James L., farmer, Rockville, was born in Virginia in 1822 and is the son of George and Ann M. HOGUE Bantley.  His father was a cooper by trade; a Methodist class leader till his death and in politics was a democrat.  While living in Virginia Mr. Bantley conducted a tannery for another man.  He lived near and learned his trade of William TAYLOR, the noted preacher/theologian.  The southern government took charge of the tannery establishment during the war, and employed him to conduct it.  His first married was November 5, 1846.  The children by this married were: John R; Cyrus; Edward A who died March 14, 1875; Virginia E, who died November 21, 1864; Dorman M, died June 22, 1862; William L. And Gorden P.  His first wife died November 13, 1864.  There are also two other children dead: Lillie R. And Mary A.  His second married was October 21, 1867.  His wife was born April 5, 1839.  By this married they have two children: Stalard B And Wallace G.  Mr. BANTLEY suffered considerable loss by the depreciation of southern paper money and came to Rockville in 1865 with only $`1.25 in his pocket; but he went to work and is now in comfortable circumstances.

BARKER

BARKER, Felix, farmer, Russell's Mills, came to Parke County in 1832 with his parents, Jesse and Annie (Day) Barker, when two years old, having been born in Kentucky. In 1830.  He received his early education at the first schoolhouse built in the township, which was located on the farm now owned by George Keller. During early life he taught school for many years.  He has been a resident here all his life with the exception of two years which he spent in Iowa, but not liking that country, he returned to Parke County, where he now has a farm of 120 acres of good land, improved and fenced.  On the 9th of Dec, 1855, while in Iowa, he married Miss Mary E. Maylow, who is a native of Indiana, and has borne him 9 children:  William L, Minerva E, Cynthia Ellen, Sarah Ann, Clarissa Eveline, Charles Henry and Hannetta.  James Monroe died in 1874, when 9 years old and Florence in 1864, aged 10 months. Mr. Barker is a prominent member of the Democratic Party, and has held the office of assessor for five years.  Taken from: 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana by J. H.  Beadle. Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers. 

BARKER, Felix was born in Kentucky in 1830 and came with his parents, Jesse and Annie Day Barker, to Sugar Creek Township in 1832.  He received his early education in the first school house built in the township.  In early life he taught school for several years.  He acquired a farm of 120 acres of well improved land.  He held the office of township assessor for several years.   Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke County Atlas of Indiana Centennial, 1816-1916, Page 115.  

William BARKER has made his home on his present farm since 1856.  It is situated on Section 16, Sugar Creek Township, Parke County and is a most desirable and valuable piece of property.  After his marriage our subject bought 80 acres of land in Fountain County. where he lived for five years, then trading the place for the farm he has since operated.  On this he has erected a good residence and substantial barns.  Bath County, Virginia was the place of our subject's birth, which occurred in 1820.  He is a son of Joshua & Rebecca (Hillman) Barker.  The former was in turn a son of George & Elizabeth (Sater) Barker. George Barker was probably born in North Carolina, but afterward, removed to Maryland, where his wife was born and there they celebrated their marriage.  Mr. Barker was a farmer by occupation and, emigrating to Kentucky, was there numbered among the early settlers.  Later in life he removed to Indiana, where he made his home with his children until his death, which occurred about 1846; his wife dying a few months afterward.  He was in service during the war of 1812, for which he drew a pension.  He was a member of the Baptist Church and politically was a Jacksonian Democrat.  Joshua Barker was one of six children, the others being Nancy, Mary, Jessie, John B. and Jane.  He remained at the home of his parents until reaching his majority and was married in the Old Dominion in 1818 to the daughter of William Hillman.  Their family comprised 7 children: William, Henry, deceased, George, Thomas, deceased, Sarah A wife of James Allen, Nancy who died in childhood and one who died in infancy.  When our subject was only 7 weeks old, his parents moved to Ky. where they lived until going to Putnam County Indiana. After living there for about 4 years, in 1830, they located in Parke County where the father bought 80 acres of unimproved land in Sugar Creek Township .  At the expiration of a few years, he settled on another farm in the same township, where he made his home during the remainder of his life.  After the death of his first wife, which occurred about 1831, he married Miss Mary Cotton.  Four children graced their union, James, Eliza J, deceased wife of James Lawson, Ellen, wife of David Shoaf and Jonathan, who died in childhood.  Mr. Barker was a third time married, Mrs. Mary Staggs becoming his wife.  He was a Democrat and in religious belief was a member of the Christian church, although he was reared in the Baptist faith.   William Barker was a lad of only 12 years when he lost his loving mother, and about 4 years later he left home, learning the blacksmith trade at which he worked for one year, when he was compelled to abandon the business as he was not strong enough to pursue it.  For several years thereafter he worked by the month for farmers, or at whatever he could find to do.  In his 25th year, he married, Susannah, daughter of Francis and Catherine Pithoud.  Charles, Thomas, Sirnetta, wife of Samuel Brooks; Emeline, Mrs. Nathan Newland; Catherine, wife of Perry Davis, Charlotte, deceased and Martha, Mrs. George Downs.  Though not as aspirant for official honors, Mr. Barker was induced to accept the position of Township Trustee for one term, acquitting himself as such to the full satisfaction of all concerned.  He is a supporter of the Democratic Party, to which he has belonged since becoming a voter.  He and his wife are members of the New Light Church.  The family is greatly respected and esteemed in this locality, with the history and welfare of which they have been identified for many decades. - Portrait & Biographic Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana, 1893, Page 316

BARNES

BARNES, Edward, farmer, Judson, was born In Mercer County, June 7, 1822.  He lived on the farm with his father, William Barnes, till the year 1828, after which they removed to Parke Co Indiana and settled in what is now Washington Township.  When Mr. Barnes arrived in the county there were but a few white settlers, and the country was occupied in part by the Delaware and Miami Indians.  Mr. Barnes was raised on a farm, and only received such education as he could acquire in the common schools.  At the age of 23, he began farming on his own account, having rented a farm and grist mill of his father, on the Little Raccoon River, where he farmed and ground wheat and corn for the next 18 years.  By this time, Mr. Barnes by industry and business tact, had accumulated sufficient money to buy the property, and since then he has been engaged in farming and packing pork.  The latter branch he has followed for a great many years, during which time he has made several trips to New Orleans on flatboats, trading in pork, lard and general produce.  He has held the post office at Judson since 1848.  Mr. Barnes has been engaged in active business almost all his life, and by paying strict attention to the business in which he was engaged he has been very successful.  He now owns 1,200 acres of land, and other property.  In 1845, he was married To Miss Sarepta BRUIN, daughter of Daniel and Mary A. Bruin, who were early settlers of Parke County, where she was born December12, 1822.  (Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill)

BARNES, Edward from the very early days was identified with the history of Parke County, to which he came with his parents in his tenth year or in 1832, his birth having occurred June 7, 1822 in Mercer County Kentucky.  He was a grist miller by trade, shipping flour to New Orleans on flatboats.  On leaving that business he became a packer and shipper of pork at Indianapolis, but never removed his family to that city.  He remained there about six years or until his death, which occurred June 24, 1891.  He was a commercial man of well recognized merit and held several local offices in the township.  Politically, he was a strong supporter of the Democratic Party and was justly esteemed as a man of influence and high standing in all circles.  On December 11, 1845 was celebrated the marriage of Edward Barnes and Sarepta BRUIN who was born December 12, 1822 near the place where she now lives.  Her parents were Daniel and Mary A. KIRKPATRICK Bruin.  The former was a son of Daniel and Molly Bruin, and the great grandparents of Mrs. Barnes were Joseph and Jane Bruin, who were natives of the Emerald Isle and came to America in the early Colonial days, settling in Virginia.  The grandfather took part in the War of the Revolution.  It is singular fact that various members of this family died while asleep and the grandfather slept for 18 days previous to his demise.  The latter was born in Fauquier County, Va.  and was married there, and spent his life in caring for his farm.  His family of five children: Daniel; William; Joseph; Sarepta and Keziah are all deceased.  The mother of these children lived to the extreme old age of one hundred and six years.  In religious faith they were Presbyterians. Mrs. Barnes' father was born in Virginia and after his marriage removed to Kentucky, where he learned the tanner's trade and soon after came to Indiana, locating in Parke County within two miles of where Mrs. Barnes now lives.  He followed his trade until his death and also carried on his farm of about 500 acres, situated in one body which he purchased of the Government.  He was one of the earliest pioneers of this region as he came here in 1819, when the nearest white settlement was at Ft. Wayne.  He reared his family of nine children in the wilderness among the Indians, and of this large circle only Mrs. Barnes is now living.  The father died in 1852, having passed his sixtieth year, and his wife survived him about a decade.  Mr. Bruin was a Baptist in belief, but was not connected with any church organization in this state, as there was none within a great many miles of his home. He was an old-line Whig.  Mrs. Barnes' school days began at the age of 12 in the rudest and most primitive kind of schoolhouse, which was three miles from her home and where the pupils had to pile brush for fuel during the winter season.  To Mr. and Mrs. Barnes were born three children: Robert, who died in April 1892, leaving a wife and two children, William and Laura, deceased wife of W. H. .  ALEXANDER who left two children, Bessie and Eddie, who are now living with their grandmother.  – source - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana (Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893) Page 689

BARNES, Robert, In the twilight of an honored life, this venerable resident of Washington Township, Parke County, whose pleasant home was situated on Section 14, closed his eyes upon the scenes of earthly toil and usefulness and passed to the Great Beyond April 4, 1892.  Esteemed in life, in death he was sincerely mourned, and among his many acquaintances there is not one who did not realize that in the death of this citizen the township had lost one of its most active members, and his family and friends one who was ever devoted to their happiness.  Mr. Barnes was born in 1848 to Edward and Sarepta Barnes, and received his education in the district schools of Parke County  He remained with his parents until he reached manhood, and was in partnership with his father in the milling business which they followed successfully.  He afterward located on a farm consisting of 240 acres of well cultivated land, taking with him his wife, who bore the maiden name of Susie Norcross, to whom he was married October 2, 1879.  Mr. Barnes is a daughter of Thomas and Mary Norcross, who were natives of Virginia. To Robert and his wife were born two children, whom they named Mary and Roscoe. They are now both attending school and receiving a good education.  In political life Mr. Barnes was a democrat and molded his beliefs in accordance with the pronounced principles of that party.  He died at the age of 44 when in the prime of life, and left behind a good record as a citizen and in all the relations that he had sustained toward others.  Mrs. Susie Barnes was born in Rockbridge County, Virginia September5, 1860 to Thomas J. and Mary Norcross.  The former parent was a son of William Norcross, a native of New Jersey, who there grew to mature years and after his marriage emigrated and settled in Rockbridge County Virginia where he was the operator and owner of an iron forge.  Subsequently he was engaged in farming to some extent.  The birthplace of our Mrs. Barnes' father was also in Virginia, where he received a common school education.  When a young man he was married to Miss Mary, daughter of Robert and Matilda Lewis.  In 1870, Mr. Norcross emigrated with his wife and family to Parke County, Indiana where he followed his trade of a plasterer for some time.  He was the father of 7 children: two of whom died in infancy; those living are: Lucy, wife of JP Russell; Susie, Mrs. Barnes; Etta who married Charles Durham; Minnie and William.  In religious belief Mr. Norcross was identified with his Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he has taken great interest.  Politically he was connected with the Democratic Party, to the principles of which he stoutly adhered.  His wife died in 1885, after which he removed his place of abode to the home of Mrs. Barnes, who is known for her pleasant disposition, hospitality and attractiveness and is very highly esteemed in the community.  Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain counties, Indiana (Chapman Brothers, 1893) p 386

BARNES, William came from Kentucky. And settled on a farm near the present town of Judson in 1828.  When he arrived, there were but few white settlers and the county was occupied in part by the Delaware and Miami Indians.  His son, Edward, who was born In Mercer Co Kentucky in 1822, was part of the family of several children.  At the age of 23, Edward rented a farm and grist mill on Little Raccoon from his father, which he ran for many years.  He also made several trips down the rivers to New Orleans on flat boats with pork and produce.  For several years he was part owner of a pork packing establishment at Indianapolis.  In 1845, he was married To Miss Sarepta BRUIN, daughter of Daniel Bruin and she was born in Parke County in 1822.  William Barnes was the father of Thomas, Monroe and Lafayette, who is the last surviving child.  There are quite a number of the descendants. Of his children now living in Parke County  1816-1916 Historical Sketch of Parke County, Parke County Centennial Memorial. The Rockville Chautauqua Association; published with other atlases in one-volume by the Parke County Historical Society, 1996)

BARNES, William H., one of the representative farmers of Parke County, Indiana is also a native of the county, born in Washington Township, June 11, 1850.  His parents were Edward and Sarepta BRUIN Barnes, a biography of whom also appears in this work.  Our subject received his early education in the schools of Washington Township and subsequently attended the college at Waveland, Indiana.  After completing his education, he was for 3 years a successful teacher in Washington Township.  Mr. Barnes' entire life has been spent in Parke where he is a highly esteemed and successful farmer and is the owner of 227 acres on Section 24, Washington Township.  He also owns his father's old homestead of 190 acres on Section 24, both farms being finely improved.  He was married December 29, 1887 to Miss L.C. STARK, daughter of T. C. . and Mary Stark, natives, respectively, of Kentucky and Indiana.  To Mr. and Mrs.. Barnes were born the following children: Lottie; Freddie; Eddie; Elmer; Thomas; Alice Ray and Hal, all bright and interesting girls and boys, of whom their parents may be justly proud. . Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana (Chapman Brothers, 1893), Page 625

BATMAN

BATMAN, George W.  -- Miller, Armiesburg, is the present owner of the Mecca merchant and custom flouring mills.  In 1875 he formed a partnership with W. W. McCune, in the woolen factory and custom mill at Mecca, and in February 1880, become sole proprietor and owner of the grist mill.  He has overhauled the mill, put in new and improved machinery, and, having a never-failing water supply, is doing a very successful business in both the custom and merchant line.  He is a son of William and Angeline (FRAZIER) Batman, and was born April 18, 1852 in Wabash Township.  His education was mostly received at Bloomingdale, Parke County Though he attended one term at Stockwell, Tippecanoe County.  Before going into business he followed school teaching about 8 years.  July 20, 1876 he was married To Miss Isabel, daughter of Samuel LOWERY, one of Parke County's early settlers.  Mr. Batman's affable, good ways and honest, upright business principle, secure him the confidence of strangers as well as his many friends.

BAUER

Father Joseph T. BAUER, Rector of St. Joseph's  Church, Rockville also has a wide field for work in Parke, Vigo and Vermillion Counties, supervising mission churches at Clinton; Rosedale; Fontanet; Coxville and Montezuma. The Catholic population in his charge is mainly composed of laboring classes,   1/5 of whom own real estate. This remarkable fact is largely due to the earnest endeavors of our subject in persuading those of his flock to invest their money in homes and real estate. His object in so doing is that they may be more settled and have something to show for their labor. At all the churches he has organized Sunday Schools and many of the congregations have well disciplined choirs and good singing. Father Bauer was born in Evansville, Indiana Aug 10, 1865 the son of Peter and Catherine Bauer of that city. His early education was acquired in the Trinity School of Evansville, where he was a pupil from the time he was six until 14.   Subsequently he attended the college and seminary at St. Meinard, Spencer Co Indiana from which institution he was graduated in 1889, being ordained a priest on May 29 of that year. He at once located at St. Mary's in Vigo County where he had charge of several churches now in his district.  In Sept 1891, he came to Rockville and built the neat and substantial parsonage adjoining the church which is now his place of residence.  Two years ago there were but two church buildings under Father Bauer’s supervision - one at Rockville, the other at Montezuma.  Since then he has erected church edifices at Fontanet, Rosedale, Coxville and Clinton. This spring, 1893, it is his intention to sell the church property at the last named city, and erect a fine brick building, 30 x 50 feet.  When he started in the work there were only 5 families in the Clinton church, but now the congregation numbers 75 families and in the several congregations over which he has charge there are now 180 families.  The six churches embrace about 900 members which include the Catholic inhabitants of no less than 20 small towns.  Father Bauer is a most zealous worker in the church and a very devout young man. No one could have the interests of his people more at heart. At the time he assumed charge there was a great deal of prejudice against the church, but this he has succeeded beyond his expectations. The cause of temperance has found in him a warm advocate and recognizing the fact that intemperance is one of the greatest evils of the age, he has been very strenuous in his efforts for its overthrow among his people.  By his genial manners and sincere enthusiasm Father Bauer has won friends for himself and the church, even among those outside of his denomination.  Regardless of creeds and differences of opinion, he is recognized as a man of worth and a worker for the cause of Christ.  With regard to  politics, he votes according to his convictions, but  takes no active part, believing that  administer  should not sacrifice his influence in the church by  striving to direct the votes for his members for any  given party or candidate.  There is a church history following - (not typed here).  –transcribed by Karen Zach from “1816-1916 Atlas of Parke County”

BAUGH

BAUGH, John, farmer, Rockville, Indiana was born In Pickaway County, Ohio March 11, 1823.  At about the age of two years he with his parents, George and Catharine (BUTTS) Baugh, emigrated to Parke County, and so he became one of the pioneer children.  His parents being poor he was deprived of event he advantages of a pioneer school education.  At the age of 20, with nothing but his empty hands, he began in Parke County, determined to make a home for himself, and has been successful, as he is now the owner of a very fine 160 acre farm, on which he has built a handsome and substantial residence.  On July 4, 1861, he was married To Martha, daughter of Jesse DRAPER, an early settler of Parke Co; she diedNovember1, 1874.  By this marriage He became the father of five children: Gertrude E; Henry; Jesse; Frederick and Gracie.  July 11, 1875, he married for his second wife, Miss Martha BRANSON, a native of Tennessee. 

John BAUGH, a leading citizen of Parke County, owns and operates a well improved farm on Section 9, Wabash Township.  He is a man of strong character and principle, one who having arrived at a conclusion is not easily driven from his position.  He is an example of one who has overcome very serious disadvantages in many respects.  As his father died when he was only a child of 5, he was never enabled to attend school a day in his life and when 6 commenced working at whatever he could find to do in order to help support himself.  In view of these facts, he is the more worthy of commendation for what he has accomplished.  Mr. Baugh was born just east of Circleville, Ohio March 11, 1824, to George and Catherine BUTTS Baugh.  His grandfather, Leonard Baugh, was born in Germany and during the war for independence was in the Hessian Army which came to America to fight on the British side.  While stationed at Jamestown on the James River he deserted the British forces and joined Gen. Washington's Army being engaged in battle the day following.  After the conflict was over he settled in Pa, where he engaged in farming and in 1800 removed to Ohio where he was one of the early pioneers.  He was a miller by trade and passed the remainder of his life in the Buckeye State.  His wife was an English woman who came with the English Army, which she deserted at the same time as her husband.  She had a family of 10 children, 3 sons and 7 daughters, the former being Jacob, Michael & George.  Both parents were members of the Free Will Baptist Church.  George Baugh was born in Pennsylvania July 4, 1790 and came to Ohio with his parents. He was a soldier in the War of 1812.  October 16, 1825, he landed at Mecca, Parke County, having been 20 days in making the trip from Ohio.  He entered 80 acres of land in Florida Township where he resided until his death October 25, 1855.  He had cleared and improved a place of 160 acres and when he was cut down by the hand of death he was found at the post of duty.  Politically he was a Whig, and religiously was a member of the Free Will Baptist Church.  His wife departed this life July 5, 1861, at the age of 68 year 8 months 20 days.  She was born in VA her father, Conrad Butts being a native of Germany who came to America with the Hessian Army which he deserted at the same time Mr. Baugh.  After the war he settled in Virginia and in 1829 came to Ft. Wayne, Indiana where he died 3 days later. T he journal was made by means of wagons. His wife was an English woman who came with the army as a cook.  She had 4 sons and two daughters, the former being Isaac, Lawrence, Jacob and John.  John Baugh is one of 4 children, the others being Michael, Martha wife of Jonathan COX and Elizabeth now Mrs. William STARKS. He came to this state with his parents and when a mere child began earning money making 12 and 1/2 cents a day, later receiving $8 a month.  On reaching his majority he engaged in business for himself, farming and raising stock.  In 1841 he purchased 40 acres of land in Florida Twp, for $150 twenty acres of which he cleared then selling the place and purchasing 120 acres of improved farm land.  In 1861 he sold this farm and purchased one of 160 acres on Section 9 which is his residence at the present time, and which he has largely improved and cleared.  Mr. Baugh was a strong Whig, and later became a Republican.  He took a strong stand for the Union and was turned out of the Free Will Baptist Church because of his strong sentiments on the question.  Since that time he has never joined a church organization.  He has been twice married, his marriage with first wife, Martha DRAPER being celebrated July 4, 1861.  The lady was born at Crawfordsville, Indiana and is a daughter of Jesse and Lucinda FISHER Draper.  Mr. and Mrs. Baugh have six children: Gertrude, wife of F. M. Berry; Henry; Jesse of Mt. Vernon, Ill; Fred; Lucinda and Gracie who die din childhood.  The mother died November 1, 1874 and some time after Mr. Baugh wedded Martha Branson who was born in Tennessee and is the daughter of Jeremiah and Mary Branson, who removed to this state in 1842.  He was a distiller in the former state but followed agricultural pursuits in Indiana. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page 343

BEAUCHAM

BEAUCHAM, Eri, farmer, Bridgeton was born October 9, 1818 in Wayne County, Indiana.  His father, Charles was born in Maryland and at the age of 18 went to North Carolina where, at the age of 24, he married Susana THOMAS.  In 1811 they immigrated to Indiana Territory, arriving a few days before Hull surrendered his army to the British.  In 1820 he moved to Orange County, Indiana and in 1822 to Clark County, Illinois then to Parke County in 1823 and settled in Raccoon Township.  In his early life, he was a sailor along the American coast. His father grandfather to Eri, was born in France.  The great grandmother of Mrs. Eri Beaucham on her mother's side was born In Germany.  Eri was about 5 years old when his parents came to Parke County  He remained at home till 14 when he hired out, carrying his wages to his father till he arrived at majority.  At the age of 22 he bought 40 acres of land, which he afterward sold.  He now owns 145 1/2 acres. He was married March 14, 1842 to Martha Nivens, daughter of George & Katherine (RICE) Nivens.  Their children Are Sarah K, born May 28, 1845; Susan E, September 10, 1846; Mary J, April 1, 1848; Martha A, February 25, 1856; Jasper, March 26, 1862.  Mrs. Beaucham's father was killed by lightening. Mr. and Mrs. Beaucham Are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.  Prior to the civil war, Mr. Beaucham was working for Gen. Steele, at the Mansfield mill, when he met with a serious accident, having his scapula broken into 3 places and all the ribs on the left side fractured.  This disabled him for war duty.  He has always voted Republic ticket.  He is one of Parke County's early settlers, and is now blossoming with age. Beadle, J. H. .  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo & Parke County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers

BEADLE

BEADLE, James Ward -- the subject of this sketch is one of the early settlers of Parke County  He was born in Jefferson County, Kentucky, near the city of Louisville, September 30, 1806.  He lived in Kentucky. Till about 14 years of age, when his father moved across the Ohio  River into Clark County, Indiana where he continued to reside till his death, which occurred in 1833.  Prior to his father's death, the subj. Of this sketch returned to his native place in Kentucky, and on the 2nd day of June 1831 he was married to Miss Elizabeth BRIGHT, of Kentucky.  Soon after his married, he came back to Clark County, Indiana and after remaining there two years, removed to Parke County In February 1837.  The country then was comparatively new.  Mr. Beadle settled in the northeast part of the county, and for 10 or 12 years did business in Howard; farming, pork packing, selling goods and groceries, buying, settling and shipping provisions to New Orleans.  In 1848, he was elected Sheriff of Parke County, and that fall he removed to Rockville and entered upon the duties of his office.  Mr. Beadle, as Sheriff of Parke County, discharged the duties of his office with a high sense of its responsibilities, and in a manner creditable to himself and satisfactory to his constituents.  In August 1850, he was reelected, and served till the expiration of his term, when he bought the farm where he now resides in Adams Township.  He has a farm, which is considered the best upland quarter section in the county and one of the best houses in the township, with grounds well ornamented with shade trees.  Mr. Beadle has been a successful man in business and has provided himself and family with an ample competency to make them comfortable in life.  He acted many years as J of the Peace and during that time was elected one of the County Commissioners and afterwards when the last was changed, he was reelected to the same office and served 9 years.  By the married above recorded he has had 9 children, five sons and four daughters, seven of whom are living. He had four sons in the army who made honorable records, one dying from a wound received at Spottsylvania Courthouse, Virginia on the 5th day of that bloody battle.  One of his sons, John h. Beadle is known to the literary world as the author of "Life in Utah," and "The Unexplored West."  He with his older brother, William H, is a graduate of Mich. State Univ. Having graduated before the late war, June 28, 1861.  William h. Held the position of Surveyor of Dakota conferred upon his by Gen. Grant after his first inauguration in consideration of his military services and successful speaking in the campaign-- an office which he held 3 years.  John H is now assoc. Editor of the Cincinnati Commercial and is residing in that city.  (Taken from the 1874 Parke Co In Atlas, p 28)

BEADLE, James Ward, Jr.  : From the Rockville Tribune excerpts of his obituary.  Beadle, James Ward Jr. Was born in Parke county July 8, 1844, the son of James W. Beadle Sr. and Elizabeth BRIGHT, and died in Rockville, May 6, 1921.  He was a boy when the war came and his two older brothers; Captain W. H. H. Beadle and John H. Beadle enlisted early in 1861 in the 31st Indiana Regiment.  Two more of the brothers, all of the able bodied family, volunteered later; James W. With 4 enlistments, 3 in the army and 1 in the navy; Edmond Page Beadle, Sergeant in the First Michigan Sharpshooters, was mortally wounded at Spotsylvania Court, VA, dying June 30, 1864. In July 1863 J. W. Enlisted in Co "C" 78th Indiana Regiment, he then enlisted in the 115th Indiana Regiment, serving 6 months at Cumberland Gap, Tenn. He then enlisted May 6, 1864 in the 133ed Indiana Regiment for 100 days service in Sherman's army. He then enlisted in the navy for a term of 2 years when the war ended.  The military record of James W. In point of varied service is unequaled by any other volunteer soldier from Parke county in the civil war.  It was to be even more extended fifty years later, when he attained the rank of Captain in command of a detail of his old comrades in the National Soldiers' Home in Danville, Ill., where he served with that rank for 3 years. In 1866 he went to Evansville where he was engaged in the drug business for 3 years. He then joined his brother, General W. H. H. Beadle in the Dakota Territory assisting him with surveying the vast territory. In 1873 he returned to the farm to assist his aged father in its work and management. After his father's death in 1879, J. W. Resided at the old homestead until 1885, when he sold the farm and built a fine residence in Rockville.  On June 10, 1875, he married Miss Belle TENBROOK. Six children were born to them:  Edmund Parke, Clara M. John T. Jessie W., Paul and Virginia; the latter were twins.  John died April 18, 1889, the result of drowning, Clara died December 31, 1896 and Paul died January 27, 1897. James' brother John H. Died January 15, 1897. Thus within a few days he suffered the lost of a daughter, a son, and a brother.  He inherited all of the fine intellectual endowments of a father and mother of unusual strength of character. It was said of him in comparison to his wonderfully intellectual brother, John H., that he only lacked the higher educational advantages of his brother to rival him in intellect.  He also resembled his brother in form and feature, that years later, those associated with John H., were startled at James' wonderful resemblance. He had the same extraordinary memory, the same honesty of thought, the same disposition for friendly discourse, and the same humor that made him a welcome member of any group wherever they congregated in social events.  Even the tone of his voice and peculiarities of speech were the same.  It is particularly interesting to note that the same quotation used in John H. Beadle's obituary was also quoted on James W. Beadle's obituary. It can be said of him as truly as Anthony said of Brutus: "His life as gentle, and the elements so mixed that nature might stand up and say to all the world, this was a man"

BEADLE, John Hanson, author, and editor and proprietor of the "Rockville Tribune," Rockville, second son of James Ward and Elizabeth Beadle, was born March 14, 1840 on a farm two miles E. Of Waterman in Liberty Township, this county.  At a very early age he was attacked by the ague, which was then the curse of the Wabash Country; with this disease he languished an entire year and was finally left with an enfeebled constitution.  For this reason his personal tastes were indulged rather more than those of most children, and as he early showed a remarkable aptitude for books and papers he acquired the reputation of an "odd child."  He learned to read so young that he has no recollection of the matter, and at the age of 7 was among the advanced scholars of the district school.  His memory was then considered marvelous, and being somewhat indulged he used to spend whole days reading or rambling in the woods and reciting little poems and stories he had read.  At the age of 10 he committed the entire New Testament to memory, besides the Book of Job, most of the Psalms and other portions of the Old Testament.  This power of memory continued in full activity till about the age of 16; then it disappeared almost at once, and since that time, though very good, his memory is not at all phenomenal.  At the age of 9, he had completed the studies then pursued in the common schools, and his father, being desirous to educate his children more thoroughly, obtained the nomination of the Whigs for sheriff; he was elected and the family removed to Rockville.  In 3 years John and his elder brother, William, had completed the high school course -- then not as full as now -- and were prepared for college. But John was still of a delicate constitution, and it was decided that his days of study were over.   At the age of 13 he was removed to the farm near Rockville, and spent the next 5 year sin farm labor and driving stock, attending school only 2 winter terms in Rockville.  Having meanwhile grown stout and apparently rugged he became eager of a college course; and in October 1857, he and his brother William entered as freshmen at An Harbor, Mich.   His health at no time really robust broke down in the second year and for a while his friends despaired of his recovery.   He at length rallied, and when able to travel returned home.  After a short visit he started on a tour through Ill, Missouri, Iowa and Minnesota, traveling largely on foot and paying his way by farm labor, teaming, selling books, etc.  After a brief sojourn in Minnesota, his health was so much restored that he returned to college.  After the breaking out of the war he made an extensive tour through NY, NJ, Pa, and Ohio .  On his return he enlisted as a private in Co. A, 31st Ind. Volunteers, and served until after the fall of Ft. Donelson, when exposure brought on a disease of the lungs and he barely escaped death.  The next four years, he traveled, taught school and studied law; and in 1866 located, as he supposed, permanently in Evansville in the practice of his profession. A gain his health failed, and in 1868 he started for California, the next winter corresponding with the Cincinnati "Commercial" from Salt Lake City.  These letters, signed "Beadle" (racy and original), attracted wide notice and established for him a reputation which place him in the front ranks of the newspaper correspondents of our land.  During his residence in Utah he edited the salt Lake "reporter" a year.  This was a gentile sheet; the only one in the territory and under his editorial control was soon recognized as one of the sprightliest and the most effective journals in the west, and by the "Saints" as a rapier to Mormonism.  He next traveled constantly for several years in the western states and territories as the correspondent of the Cincinnati "Commercial," "western World," and other papers, at the same time collecting material for his books.  The first of these was his 'Life in Utah," published early in 1870.  This is a history of Mormonism and the most complete and valuable book on the subject that has ever been written.  If found an immense sale, showing its great popularity -- over 80,000 copies having been sold.  It has been said by another that the work "reflects great honor on the writer from the clear, impartial statement of the rise, progress and workings of Mormonism, acquired only by the most hard and patient labor; and from the forcible and interesting style in which it is written, well deservedly rank it among the reliable histories of our land."  On December2 5, 1872, Mr. Beadle was married to Miss Jennie COLE, of Evansville, a lady who adds to quiet, social charms a rare development of the moral sensibilities.  This union was happy for Mr. Beadle, not only in securing a partner whose grace and tenderness would fill his home with the sunshine of domestic happiness, but whose qualifications otherwise lend ready assistance in his intellectual labors.  In 1874 an interest in mining took Mr. Beadle, with his wife and child, to Colorado, where he worked and traveled that season.  Then he went to Utah and was appointed clerk of the Supreme Court.  This position he held till August 1875, when he resigned and went to NY City.  There he wrote various articles for the magazines and served as Wall Street. Reporter for the "Daily Graphic."  Early in 1876 he accepted the position of Columbus, Ohio  correspondent of the Cincinnati "Gazette," retaining the same two years; during the time he made two lengthy tours in the south for that journal.  Growing weary of the life of a wandering scribe, in 1878 he settled in Rockville and bought the "Rockville Tribune," a paper which he is at this time publishing.  In addition to his editorial work he is performing a variety of literary labor.  In 1877 he published "Western Wilds" -- a history of 7 years' travel and residence in the Far West.  Besides his correspondence, Mr. Beadle is widely known for his books and various short articles; among them, "The Darwinian Genesis," a little satire, which has been repeatedly published both in Europe and America, the "Centennial State," etc.  Mr. Beadle's acquirements are of a high order.   His talents, made conspicuous by great memory, remarkable, powers of observation and generalization, and an unusually versatile style have brought him prominently before the reading world as a writer of signal promise, and laid the foundation for a career of usefulness and fame in the empire of letters.  He is still a young man, and the public have every reason to hope that they may be refreshed for many years to come from the fountains of his inspiring pen, and that he may add greatly to his very gratifying success and reputation. 

BECK

BECK, William farmer, Lena, was born April 8, 1803 in North Carolina and is a son of George and Elizabeth (CLAVER) Beck, both of whom came from North Carolina to the Indiana Territory and settled in what is now Washington County in 1806.  Then Indians were their neighbors, there being no white people within 8 or 10 miles of them.  The Indians were so troublesome that schools could not be kept and on George Beck's place were built two forts, one to protect the house and the other to defend the mill owned by Mr. Beck.  George Beck and eldest son, a brother to William, were in the battle of Tippecanoe, and General Harrison came to the home of the Becks with them after the battle.  Thus William grew-up on the Indiana Frontier.  In 1825, he was married to Susannah ALLEN and in 1830 moved to Putnam County and in 1850 to Parke and settled in Jackson Township buying 160 acres of land, a part of which he has cleared.  He and wife are prominent in the Christian Church.  He is a democrat, and cast his first vote for Jackson.  They brought 9 children when they came to Parke County: George, Delila, John, Elizabeth, Nancy, Susannah, William A, Josephine and Nathan.  They have more than 50 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.  Their seventh son, William A, was born September 28, 1839 and lived with his parents till he was 26 years old.  September 28, 1866 he was married to Rachel EVANS, daughter of William and Sarah Evans, both born in Ohio .  She was born July 6, 1847, in Bartholomew County, Indiana.  Their children are: Mary J, born September 28, 1867; Jennie, born August 18, 1869; Myrtle born November 7, 1872; George born March 14, 1875.  Mr. and Mrs. Beck are members of the Christian church and he is a democrat.   Taken from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill

BEESON

BEESON, E.W., school teacher, Bloomingdale, was born in Washington Township, Parke County, Indiana, February 13, 1853, and is the son of David and Hannah Beeson.  His father came to this county in 1839, where he lived until his death, which occurred about 1855.  Mr. Beeson spent the early part of life on his father's farm, and attended the common schools for a number of years.  After this time he taught school and earned money to complete his education, since which time he has been engaged in teaching school in different parts of this county and others.  It may be conscientiously said of Mr. Beeson that everything attaining to his education and his ability as a teacher has been obtained by his industry as a student and a teacher.  In 1879, he was married to Miss Hattie NEWLIN, daughter of James Newlin, of Parke County.  Taken from: Page303 History of Parke Co IN; J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill, 1880

BELL

BELL, Addison W, farmer, Rosedale, was born In Vigo Co June 18, 1831 and is the son of John and Eleanor (DAWSON) Bell.  Mr. Bell's father was born In PA, afterward lived in OH; and moved from there to Vigo County  He was in the war of 1812; was a Whig, a good citizen and died in February 1856.  Mr. Bell's mother was born In Ohio , is a member of the Christian church and is still living. Mr. Bell had the common school education of his day.  He began farming in Vigo Co in 1852 in limited circumstances and now has 174 acres of land.  He has a good home comfortably furnished.  He was married December24, 1852 to Elizabeth N. PRICE, daughter of John and Sarah Price.  She was born June 14, 1834.  They have had 8 children: America E, born December20, 1853; Mary B August 18, 1855; John F September 7, 1857 died November13, 1869; Tullona E April 21, 1863; William E. July 1, 1866; Edward P. March 1, 1869; Annetta C, September31, 1875; Frederic M, November10, 1872diedAugust7, 1878; Charity J August 7, 1860diedJuly 18, 1869.  Mr. Bell is a republican and an honest, upright citizen. Beadle, J. H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo & Parke County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers

BELL, Daniel, farmer, Bridgeton was born September 3, 1834 in Raccoon Township.  His father, Abel Bell, was born In Butler County, Ohio August 4, 1805 and was one of the pioneer settlers in Raccoon Township, in which he is still living.  His mother died March 20, 1850.  Mr. Bell has always lived on the farm.  He attended the common school in winters, working on the farm in summer.   He raises grain and stock, and has a good farm of nearly 300 acres, with a nice dwelling house upon it.  He has traveled some in the west and visited Niagara Falls and the Centennial in 1876.  Mr. Bell is a democrat, a successful farmer, and an honest industrious, substantial citizen. Beadle, J. H.  1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo & Parke County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers

BELT

BELT, George C., blacksmith and wagon-maker, Bridgeton, was born in Vigo County March 8, 1834 and is the son of Gerard and Mary Belt.  His father was born in Ohio and died in Vigo County 1853.  His mother was a member of the Methodist Church.  Mr. Belt spent his boyhood on the farm in Vigo County, where he lived till he was 19 years old.  At 20 years of age, he learned his trade and has been in business in Bridgeton ever since, except two years in Vincennes.  Mr. Belt was married October 30, 1856 to Matilda A. EVANS.  She was born In Vigo County April 24, 1831 and is the daughter Of Milton and Mary (ST. CLAIR) Evans.  Mr. Belt enlisted in the fall of 1861 in County A, 14th Indiana Vols. For 3 years.   He was in service 5 months and then discharged on account of disability.  In the fall of 1864 he reenlisted in the 113d Ind. Vol. For 100 days.  He received a certificate of national thanks for honorable service.  In 1856 he settled in Bridgeton and is one of the most reliable and respected citizens of the place.  He has been engaged in the implement business in connection with his regular business.  He has been township trustee, and is now justice of the peace.  In politics he is a republican.  Beadle, J. H.   1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo & Parke County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers

BENSON

BENSON, Col. E. M. ., merchant, Montezuma, is one of Parke County's most prominent business men and one of her most respect citizens.  He is one of their self-made men.  He is the second child of William W. and Gertrude Benson, of Virginia.  He was born in Accomack County, VA, October26, 1813.  In 1823, his parents removed to Hamilton County, Ohio, where they remained until 1827, after which the removed to Parke County, Indiana and purchased a farm near Rockville.  Here Mr. Benson lived from the time he was 14 until he was 21 years old, and his time was spent in working on a farm and attending a common school.  In his twenty-second year he taught school for six months.  Mr. Benson's aim in life was to become a merchant, and to this end he went to Rockville in 1836, and was employed by Messrs. Donaldson & Lowe, and clerked for them one year, when he bought Mr. Lowe's interest in the business and formed a partnership with Donaldson, which was continued for 4 years.  In 1839, when only 26 years old, he was elected by the county commissioners to fill the important office of county treasurer, and was appointed by them without solicitation on his part.  In the winter of 1841-2 he was appointed enrolling clerk for the state legislature, and filled that office for one term.  In September 1843, he removed to Armiesburg, and embarked in the dry-goods business with Messrs. Patterson and Sillman, and lived there until 1846, when he removed to Montezuma, his present home.  Here Mr. Benson formed a partnership with Hon. John G. Davis, with whom he carried on a very large and successful business for 17 years, conducting the business for the most part himself.  At the expiration of this time the partnership was dissolved, and Col. Benson has kept up the business alone.  During the many years the colonel has been in active business he has dealt honestly with his many customers, and has gained for himself an enviable reputation.  August 7, 1853, he was married to Louisa M. FAIRCHILD, of New Orleans, by whom he has 5 children.  The mother and three of her children are no longer among the living.    (Beadle, J. H.   1880 History of Parke County, Indiana (from Historic notes on the Wabash Valley and History of Vigo County) Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers reprinted 1977 by The Bookmark, Knightstown IN).

BENSON, Erastus M. -- Anticipating the building of the Canal, Col. Erastus M. Benson who had been in business at Rockville and Armiesburg, formed a partnership with John G. DAVIS, then Clerk of Parke Co and opened a gen. Merchandise business in 1846.  This partnership was continued for 14 years, during which time Mr. Davis was Clerk and then a member of Congress so it is needless to say that Col. Benson conducted the business without any assistance from his partner.  It was a large and very flourishing business, too, growing into a wholesale buying and selling at the big warehouse on the Canal, 150 yards no. Of the present artesian well.  This warehouse was managed by Septimus VanLandingham.  Col.  Benson continued in the retail business after the decline of the Canal until he had rounded out 40 years of active mercantile life in Montezuma, with 10 years of previous business at Rockville and Armiesburg.  He dealt honestly with everybody and was greatly admired and respected.   (Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke Co Atlas of IN Centennial, 1816-1916, p.27) - BENSON, Colonel Erastus M., was born in Virginia in the year 1813.  He came with his father, William M. and settled on a farm near Rockville.  At the age of 21 he taught school.  In 1836, he entered the general store of Danaldson & Lowe in Rockville and in 1837, purchased the interest of Mr. Lowe, which continued for four years.  In 1839, at the age of 26, he was appointed County Treasurer, was enrolling clerk in the Legislature in 1841-42.  In 1843, he with James PATTERSON and Isaac J. SILLIMAN went into the dry goods business at Armiesburg.  He went to Montana in 1846 with Hon. John W. DAVIS and engaged in mercantile and general business and finally for many years he conducted a large business at Montezuma.  (Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke Co Atlas of IN Centennial, 1816-1916, Page117)

BENSON, Colonel Erastus M., was born in Virginia in the year 1813.  He came with his father, William M. And settled on a farm near Rockville.  At the age of 21 he taught school.  In 1836, he entered the general store of Danaldson & Lowe in Rockville and in 1837, purchased the interest of Mr. Lowe, which continued for four years.  In 1839, at the age of 26, he was appointed County Treasurer, was enrolling clerk in the Legislature in 1841-42.  In 1843, he with James PATTERSON and Isaac J. SILLIMAN went into the dry goods business at Armiesburg.  He went to Montana in 1846 with Hon. John W. DAVIS and engaged in mercantile and general business and finally for many years he conducted a large business at Montezuma.  (Taken from the Historical Sketch of Parke Co Atlas of IN Centennial, 1816-1916, Page 117)

BILBO

BILBO, William, deceased was born in Kentucky. In 17987, and was the son of Archibald and Mary Bilbo, both natives of Kentucky; the former of whom died in 1826, aged 57, the latter in 1833, aged 56 years.  Mr. Bilbo was married in 1820 to Lucinda Durham, daughter of Benjamin and Margret (Robinson) Durham.  Her parents were the first settlers of Boyle County, Kentucky, and they both died in Kentucky; the former in 1847, aged 69 years, the latter in 1853, aged 73 years.  Mr. William Bilbo had by their marriage twelve children: Margaret, David, Elijah, Mary, deceased; Benjamin, deceased; William B, Elizabeth, deceased; Archibald, Harriet A, Milton J, James O. A., deceased; and Sophia A.  Benjamin was killed in the battle of Jenkins Ferry, April 30, 1864.  Archibald was captain of the Howard Township. Home guards.  Mr. Bilbo began life for himself poor. He came to Parke County In 1829, and shortly after returned to Kentucky, remaining there nine years, after which he returned to his farm in Howard township, where he died in 1854.  By trade, he was a blacksmith. He and his wife were active, earnest workers in the cause of Christianity. They united with the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1820, and his widow holds her membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church at Waveland. Mr. Bilbo took an active part in the building of the first church in the township. He was a man very highly respected by his neighbors for his integrity and moral character.  By his death his family lost a benevolent and kind husband and father.  (1880 History of Parke County, Indiana J. H.  Beadle, Chicago: H. H. Hill & N. Iddings, Publishers).

BLAKE

BLAKE, J. E. ., miller and farmer, Portland Mills, is a son of Isaac W. And Rachel (LION) Blake, both natives of Ohio. His grandfather on his father's side was a soldier in the war of 1812, under Hull, at Detroit. Mr. J. E.  Blake's father first emigrated to Illinois and then to Parke County, Indiana and settled in Greene Township on Section 36. The subject of this sketch was born in Parke Co Indiana in 1830 and was married in 1853 to Mary BUTCHER daughter of W. C. and Sarah MORGAN Butcher. WC Butcher was a native of Kentucky and was one of the pioneer settlers of Parke County Mr. and Mrs. Blake have 7 children: William K; Isaac N; Charles L; Mary A; Sarah S; Ulysses S and America E. They are all at home with their parents. In politics, Mr. Blake is strictly a republican. His wife is a member of the Christian Church Society at Portland Mills. He began life poor in this world's goods. He now owns the watermill at Portland Mills, this being the first and best mill in this part of the country. He has ever preferred the emoluments of quiet life to the undue public censure many times poured upon public men by an unpitying and blind public.

W. P. BLAKE, a leading agriculturist of Parke County, owns two fine farm in Union Township, one of 177 acres on Section 16 and his home farm on Section 19 has 157 acres within its boundaries.  He is a practical farmer, and has made a success of his various ventures.  His well-tilled, fertile fields yield to him an abundant income in return for the care and attention he bestows upon them.  Our subject is a native son of this county, having been born in the same township where his home is located on January 28, 1837.  His parents are Charles L. and Barbara Miller Blake, the former born in Greene Co., OH March 4, 1809 and latter in Franklin County same state September 4, 1816. John Blake, our subject's paternal grandfather was a native of Maryland, hatter by trade and of Irish descent.  In 1823 he took up land from the Government in this county to which he removed his family.  He hewed the logs for a primitive cabin and cleared his farm which was thickly timbered.  Our subject's maternal grandfather, Daniel was a native of VA and of Dutch descent. Charles L. Blake was called from life in 1878. He was laid to rest by the side of his wife who died in 1864. They were the parents of 8 children, two sons six daughters, our subject being the second in order of birth.  He attended the primitive log schoolhouse of former years and resided with his parents until arriving at man's estate.  On February 20, 1862, Mr. Blake married Louisa McGilvrey, by whom he had 3 sons and 3 daughters: Charles W; George S; Mary E now the wife of L.F. Moore; Cora E, wife of Charles Nevins; William P and Sarah E, deceased.  On December 19, 1877, Mr. Blake and Mary E. Jack were united in marriage.  Mrs. Blake was born October 16, 1838 in Greene Twp, this county being a daughter of James H. Jack, a native of Ohio where he was an early settler, locating there in 1825. Mrs. Blake's mother, whose maiden name was Mary Sellers, was born in Ohio and first married  J.H. Blake, having one child, Minnie S, now deceased by that union. Mr. Blake located in Adams Twp, where he owned and 120 acres of farm land, remaining on that place until 1869, when he removed to one in Union Twp.  This he engaged in cultivating until 1878, when he came to his present valuable farm, which has since been his home. In the late war Mr. Blake came nobly to the defense of the Stars & Stripes, becoming a member of Co. D, 78th Indiana Infantry. He is a member of Grand Army of Republic, belonging to Scott Post at Portland Mills. In his political faith he is a stanch Republican. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Montgomery, Parke & Fountain Counties, Indiana.  Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1893, Page. 608

BLAKE, William P -- Farmer, Bellmore, was born January 28, 1837, in a log cabin that stood where his own house now stands.  His paternal grandfather came to Union Township in 1824, and unloaded his goods and family of 7 children where the orchard opposite William P. Blake's residence now grows.  One of these 7 children, Charles L. Blake, born In Ohio married Barbara MILLER, also born In Ohio and they became the parents of Wm. P at the date mentioned above.  Times have changed since then, although Mr. Blake still lives on the farm on which he was born  He now has a handsome residence, 16 x 40 with ell, which is the third house built on the same spot, each an improvement upon the one displaced, which shows the progressive spirit of its occupants.  A good barn and orchard also add value to the premises of their owner.  He has 157 acres in Section 19, 175 in Section 16, Union Township.  On February 20, 1862 Mr. Blake was married To Louisa McGilvery, daughter of Ira McGilvery, by whom he had 6 children: Charles, Sherman, Mary, Cora, William and Sarah, dead.  His wife Louisa died February 17, 1874 and is buried in the Blake graveyard.  He was married To Mary E JACK, daughter of James Jack, of Greene Township, December 18, 1877.  Mr. Blake is a good, permanent citizen and votes republican continually.  He enlisted in 1862 in Company D 78th Indiana Regiment 60-days volunteers and was captured at Uniontown and sent home.

BOARDMAN

BOARDMAN, Thomas, shoemaker, Rockville, was born in Manchester, England, February 9, 1826.  He came with his parents, Thomas and Alice (ASPINAL) Boardman to NY in 1832. His father was a woolen manufacturer, and settled in that city, where the family lived several years.  The subject of this sketch began the shoemaker's trade there, but before he had finished it they removed to Steubenville, Ohio, then to Lisbon, and next to Salem.  From here, Thomas returned to Steubenville and when he was done with learning his trade he went to Elkton to help his father run a woolen factory which he had bought.  He quit the factory in 1847 and came to Parke County, arriving at Morlan's mill, on the Little Raccoon on May 1.  He settled and lived on Sand Creek a couple of years, farming and working at his trade; he then moved to New Discovery, and in like manner worked 2 or 3 years; from thence he went to Rocky Fork, near Mansfield, and lived until 1856, when he and his brother Joseph and Ashford MANKINS formed a partnership and kept a general store at Piattsville.  Mr. Boardman kept the post office at that point.  In the spring of 1858 he sold out and made a journey with his family in a two-horse wagon to NY, stopping along the way to visit relations.  The trip occupied four weeks.  His father and mother had previously returned to NY and settled at Poughkeepsie.  In the fall he sold his team and returned by rail, and took up his residence at Rockville, where he has lived to this date.  For 3 or 4 years he carried on a boot and shoe establishment, manufacturing much of his stock, and keeping several workmen for that purpose.  He next embarked in the grocery trade, to which he added a meat market, taking Henry CRAFT as a partner in the latter.  This partnership was summarily dissolved by Craft's being killed in a quarrel with Washington PAINTER, who shot him.  After a few years, Mr. Boardman resumed work at his trade and has not departed from this since.  He was married at New Lisbon, Ohio in 1846 to Edna HANN, who was born July10, 1829. They had 9 children: Sarah Catharine, now dead; Alice, Amanda, Mary Ann, Joseph Henry, Julia, who is deceased; Andrew, dead; Thomas, deceased; Edna, May and William.  Mr. Boardman and nearly all his family are members of the Christian Church.  He has filled all the stations from janitor to pastor, and has indeed been most efficient in all the relations he has borne to the church, and faithful to her every trust and interest.  Mr. Boardman has two brothers, Andrew and Samuel, lawyers, who reside in NY City and are eminent in their profession.  It was Judge Andrew Boardman, it will be remembered, and who presided on the trial of Stokes for the killing of Fisk.  The Boardman family on both sides are remarkable for their longevity.  His father died June 23, 1869, aged 83 and his mother May 6, 1880 aged 90.  His grandfather Boardman lived to be 101 years old and his grandfather Aspinal 110.

BOATMAN, John, minister and farmer, Rosedale, an eminent pioneer, and one possessed of an extraordinarily retentive memory, capable of relating more points of early history than any one in this section of country, was born April 19, 1811, on a farm E. Of the Crabb orchard, in Lincoln County, Kentucky, and here lived until his 17th year when he came to Parke Co with his parents in the fall of 1826, and settled on Walker's prairie where he resided until about two years after his mother's death, which marks the date of his removed to Vermilion (sic) County, Indiana, to commence work for M. PATTON, with whom he entered into an article of agreement by which the latter was to give Mr. Boatman $200, or enter for him 160 acres of congress land, board and clothe him as one of the family and at the expiration of the time stated to give him a complete suit of clothing. Mr. Patton died on a returning trip from Clinton to New Orleans after the two years were up, in 1833, and Mr. Boatman failed to receive his full dues, getting, however, $100, a coat and vest and a horse worth $40.  In the fall of 1833, Mr. Boatman rented the saw and grist mill on the Patton farm and operated it until September1, 1834 at which time he moved to his present farm of 160 acres, on Sec. 28, being one solid mass of timber, growing so closely together that to see a deer 20 yards was one of the impossibilities of the times; but by his energy and industry it is now a fine tract of farming land.  July 13, 1834, near Patton Mills he married Anna MALLORY, by whom he became the father of one child, Mary, who died in August 1879.  His wife died in 1837.  Dorthy LEONDERMAN became his second wife in 1841, and he became the father of four more children: Leonard, Henry, Elizabeth and Elijah, all living.  After the death of his second wife, he married Susannah COBLE, September28, 1876.  They have one child, Samuel, born July 14, 1877.  Mr. Boatman joined the Christian church in Vigo county, about 50 years ago and has been preaching in the surrounding neighborhood and counties since 1840, and during these 40 years there has passed hardly a single Sabbath without his having preached at some point.  During these years he has baptized at least 500 souls.  He is a democrat, formerly a whit.  He is also a natural mechanic.

John BOATMAN was born April 19, 1811 in Lincoln County, Kentucky. In 1826 he came with his parents who settled on Walker's Prairie in Florida Township.  In 1834 he acquired 160 acres of land in Section 28, which was a solid mass of heavy timber, which he cleared in due time.  He became a minister in the Christian Church and for 40 years preached that faith, serving well and faithfully until his death. - Parke County Indiana Centennial Memorial 1816-1916 Page 117

John Boatman, a member of the population of Otter Creek township, Vigo county, Indiana, is a native of Parke county, this State, where he was born, April 4, 1862, the son of Levi and Nancy (Kilburn) Boatman. Mr. Boatman has four brothers and two sisters living, the brothers all being farmers in Parke county. The father was a native of Sullivan county, Indiana, born March 25, 1825 and died in 1893. The mother was a native of Pulaski county, Kentucky, born in January, 1825, and died December 6, 1908. She came to Indiana when she was seven years of age with her parents, and she and her husband were well-known and highly respected citizens of Parke county. John Boatman was reared in Parke county, and educated in the common schools of his home township. He engaged in business for himself at the age of sixteen, and has been a farmer all his life. He began at the bottom of the ladder, but has climbed to enviable heights of success. He married Mary Head, June 26, 1892, and they have had two children, daughters, of whom one is living, Florence L. She is a graduate of the public schools and is employed as a telephone operator with the Citizens Telephone Company, with which company she has been connected for five years. She makes her home with her parents. Mrs. Boatman is a native of near Union Springs, Alabama, born November 4, 1867, the daughter of William and Laura (Neidhamer) Head. There were two children in that family, Mrs. Boatman and her brother, Joseph, who lives at Los Angeles, Calif. Her father and mother are both living, and make their home with Mr. and Mrs. Boatman. Mr. Boatman established himself in Otter Creek township in 1900, and has won the respect of all his neighbors. He is a carpenter and joiner by trade, and has worked at these trades in both Parke and Vigo counties for twenty years. He has done much work for the coal companies of this region, and has been a most valuable addition to the county. He has taken an active part in local politics, and was elected assessor of Otter Creek township in 1909, serving in that office for five years. In February, 1914, he was appointed trustee of the township to fill a vacancy, and at the close of that unexpired term, was elected to the office in November, 1914. So valuable and efficient were his services, that he was re-elected to the trusteeship in 1918, and is the present holder of the office. Since his election to the trusteeship, the Otter Creek township grade and high school was erected, in 1917, at a cost of $50,000. Fraternally, he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, No. 826, at North Terre Haute, and has passed through all the chairs. He and his wife are members of the Rebekah lodge, No. 698, and Mr. Boatman is treasurer and Mrs. Boatman financial secretary of the lodge. He is also a member of the Knights of Pythias at North Terre Haute and belongs to the Red Men Tribe, No. 544, at the same town. Mrs. Boatman is a member of the Pocahontas, No. 481, and also of the Pythian Sisters, as well as of the Daughters of America. Mr. and Mrs. Boatman and their daughter are constructive and worthy citizens of Vigo county, and are admired by their many friends.  - History of Indiana from Its Exploration to 1922,  By Logan Esarey, William F. Cronin, Pages 204, 205

BOGUE

BOGUE, Eli, farmer, Rockville, is the son of William and Rebecca (COOK) Bogue, and was born in Vermilion County, ILL October 12, 1840.  Mr. Bogue's father was a Friend Quaker, a republican and a farmer.  Mr. Bogue Lived in Ill. Till 1861.  In 1859 he made a trip through Iowa.  He enlisted in CO K 37th Ill. Volunteers and was mustered into service at Camp Washington, Chicago, Ill and preceded at once to St. Louis.  He fought at Muddy Creek where the Union forced captured 1400 prisoners. This battle was commanded by Gen. Pope.  His company was then placed under the command of Gen. Fremont.  Mr. Bogue also fought in the Battle of Pea Ridge.  His regiment took boats, went down the Mississippi river to the siege of Vicksburg; then up the Yazoo, in NC; then to New Orleans, across the Gulf; and he was mustered out at Springfield, Ill, after 3 years of service for his country.  While in the army he was offered promotion on account of good conduct.  He made a good record as a soldier.  May 13, 1867, he married Miss Rebecca NEWLIN.  She was born in 1848.  They have 3 children; Richard H; Almetta and William N.  Mr. Bogue is a Friend Quaker, and a republican; he votes as he shot.  He is an industrious and successful farmer. 

BORUFF

John BORUFF - If one desires to gain a vivid realization of the rapid advance in civilization which the last half century has brought about, he can listen tot he stories that men who are still living can tell of their boyhood.  The log cabin in the clearing, the still ruder schoolhouse with its rough seats made of slabs, its limited range of studies and its brief terms arranged on the subscription plan, the routine of work at home unrelieved by any of the modern devices by which machinery is made to do in a short time what formerly occupied the entire year these and many similar descriptions will bring up in sharp contrast the advantages of today.  The subject of this sketch, a venerable and highly respected citizen of Drury Township, whose home in on Section 34 has many reminiscences of this sort. Mr. Boruff was born October 4, 1818 in Claiborne County, Tennessee a son of Valentine Boruff a native Pennsylvania where he was reared and married. For some time he made his home in Tennessee and on leaving that state removed to Montgomery County, Indiana where he spent a few years. In 1833 he brought his family to Mercer County, Illinois where he entered land, improved a farm and continued to reside until called to his final rest.  Thus amid pioneer scenes John Boruff spent the days of his boyhood and youth, and until attaining his majority remained under the parental roof, assisting his father in the arduous task of clearing and developing a new farm.  In Mercer County he was married in 1841, to Miss Mary McGreer, a native of Union County, Indiana and daughter of William McGreer. Also an early settler of Mercer County.  They began their domestic life upon a farm adjoining his father's and there continued to reside until their removal to Drury Township, Rock Island County in 1847.  Here Mr. Boruff purchased 280 acres of wild land and as time advanced he placed acre after acre under the plow until today he has one of the most highly cultivated and valuable farms in the locality. He first built a little log cabin but this has long since given place to a commodious and comfortable frame residence, which is surrounded by good barns and substantial outbuildings. To his original purchase he added until he owned 500 acres of rich and productive land lying in Mercer and Rock Island counties. His property has all been acquired through his own individual efforts, as he started out in life for himself empty-handed and has made his own way in the world unaided.  Mr. Boruff lost his first wife who died March 15, 1866 leaving 3 sons, namely: William Mc, an agriculturist of Mercer County who is married and has two sons; Jackson, a farmer of Pottawatomie County Iowa who is married and has two sons and one daughter and Alexander, a farmer of Mercer County who is married and has two daughters. In Cedar county, Iowa, Mr. Boruff was again married March 15, 1868 his second union being with Mrs. Mary A. Doty who was born in Indiana but was reared and educated in Cedar County, Iowa. Her father Samuel Stephenson Smith was a native of Ohio where he wedded Mary Steel and later removed to Park (sic) County, Indiana spending his last years there.  Her mother later became the wife of Joseph Lindsay of Cedar county Iowa by whom she had 3 children.  Mrs. Boruff was first married in Cedar County and by that union had two sons, Dow Douglas Doty, a ranchman of Wyoming who is married and has one daughter and JR Doty who is also married and has one daughter and is living with his brother in the west.  One son has been born of the 2nd marriage, Samuel H. Boruff who now operates the old home place for his father.  He is married and has one son, Charles S.  Mr. Boruff has been a lifelong supporter of the Democratic party but ha never cared for the honors or emoluments of public office, preferring to give his undivided attention to his business interests.  He attends the Presbyterian Church of which his wife is a member and contributes to its support, and as a public-spirited citizen has borne his part in promoting those enterprises for the good of the community along various lines.  For a half century he has been numbered among the valued and useful man of the county and has the respect and esteem of all who know him. - The Biographical record of Rock Island County, Illinois.  Chicago: S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1897, Page 417

BOWERS

Aaron BOWERS is a retired farmer living with his sister, Miss Elizabeth Bowers, No. 371 W. North Street in Galesburg.  He was born in Highland County Ohio March 21, 1829 son of Silas and Phoebe Lewis Bowers, who were natives of Virginia or Pennsylvania.  The maternal grandparents were Jonathan and Elizabeth Feasel Lewis, both of whom lived to old age and reared a family of several children, namely: Isaac, Phoebe, Aaron, John, Christina, Nancy and Barney. Silas Bowers, father of our subject became a farmer of Highland County, Ohio and afterward removing westward was an early settler of Parke County, Indiana. He passed away in Vermilion County, Indiana about 60 years of age. His wife survived him and passed away in 1897 at age 82 and 8 months. She was a consistent member of the Methodist Church.  In their family were 10 children: Mary Ann, who is the widow of John Wilson and resides in Sigourney Iowa; Aaron of this review; Elizabeth living in Galesburg; Sarah wife of J.H. Griggs of Wheaton Illinois; Christina the deceased wife of William Redford; Lucinda, the deceased wife of J. A. McCoy and four who passed away in early life. Aaron Bowers spent a part of his youthful days in Ohio and also remained for a time in Indiana. He pursued his education in one of the old time log cabin subscription schools. He was a particularly fine speller and knew the old elementary spelling book by heart.  In 1855 he came to Illinois, settling in Warren County where he purchased a quarter section of land in Coldbrook for which he paid $25 per acre.  Later he bought a farm in Floyd Township where he now owns 400 and half acres, in addition to his 160 acres tract in Coldbrook Township and a farm of 240 acres in Iowa. He lived in Coldbrook and Floyd Township for 45 years but has made his home in Galesburg for the past 11 years and in this city owns a fine home where he lives retired, he and his sister Elizabeth living together. While his life was devoted mainly to general agricultural pursuits, in which line of business he won substantial success, he has also done some public service, acting as road commissioner for 12 year sand as school director for one term. - Perry, Albert J.  History of Knox County, Illinois : its cities, towns and people Chicago: S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1912, Page 385 

BOWLES

J. R. BOWLES, prominent as a contractor of Kansas City, where he has made his home since 1879 removed from Keokuk, Iowa, to the metropolis of western Missouri for the purpose of engaging in the contracting and building business here, as he felt the rapid growth of the city offered a splendid field.  He is a native of Ohio and in early life served an apprenticeship at the wagon makers' trade in Rockville, Parke County Indiana under the direction of his uncle. In 1853 he removed west of the Mississippi, settling at Keokuk, Iowa where he learned and followed carpentering, becoming an expert workman in that line.  He afterward lived for 4year sin south western Missouri but had to leave that section of the state about the time of the outbreak of the Civil War because of the hostility he aroused form the fact he voted for Abraham Lincoln.  His brother, TC Bowels, was a Capt and major of the 15th Ohio serving also as quartermaster of his regiment, which was then a part of the 20th Brigade. He continued with that command until he retired to take charge of the building of the hospital at Jefferson, Indiana and acted as supt. of the construction of this building which was erected at a cost of one million, 500 thousand dollars.  During the period of the war, J. R. Bowles was employed in the quartermaster's department. Since that time he has largely given his attention to building operations. He was located for a long period in Keokuk, Iowa and as stated came then to Kansas City in 1879 to join the representatives of contracting and building interesting in this city.  For some years he was identified with much of the best building going on in the city, erecting many prominent homes and fine business blocks and receiving a liberal and growing patronage. During the last two years however he has not been very active in building.  A year ago he was appointed city inspector of granitoid walks and curbing and has entire charge of same at the present time, together with all new construction work of this character. In 1853 occurred the marriage of Mr. Bowles and Miss Mary Ann McEberry of Missouri the wedding being celebrated in Keokuk, Iowa on 30 August of that year. They have 3 living children: Charles M, who is engaged in the mining business in Los Angeles, California; Ida M. at home; and Lou the wife of Oliver N. Axtell. They lost 3 children.  In politics Mr. Bowles has always been a stalwart republican active in the ranks of the party since its organization and standing at all times loyally for the interests of this great political party which was the defender of the Union in the dark days of the Civil War and has always been the party of reform, progress an improvement - Whitney, Carrie.  Kansas City, Missouri.  Chicago: S J Clarke, 1908, Page 494

BOWSHER

John N. BOWSHER, one of the attractive rural homes of Parke County is located in Liberty Township and is the property of the subject of this notice.  The farm comprises 443 acres of finely improved land, and is embellished with all the buildings necessary tot he proper management of the place.  The owner, Mr. Bowsher, was born in Penn Township, Parke County, Indiana on August 13, 1843 and is a son of Joseph and Marinda KENNEDY Bowsher. The paternal grandfather of our subject, Jacob Bowsher, was born in Pennsylvania and migrated to Montgomery County Ohio whence after a residence of a few years, removed in the fall of 1823 to Parke County and settled in Penn Township.  Here he entered and improved about 240 acres and became one of the well-known farmers of this portion of the state.  He gave to each of his sons 80 acres of land and in other ways aided them upon starting out for themselves.  In the United Brethren Church he was prominent and his house was used as the place of holding the first meeting of the few members of that denomination then residing in Penn Township.  He was a leader in the organization of the church in his community and remained faithful to its doctrines until his death.  His wife, whose maiden name was Margaret BLOXOM, survived him about 15 years. Their children were; John, Joseph, Polly, Peter and Jacob.  Joseph Bowsher was born in Ohio in 1816 and accompanied his parents on their removal to Parke Co, where he cleared and improved 240 acres in Liberty Township.  In addition to this land, he owned other farms aggregating 300 acres. He built the first grist mill in Montezuma and this he operated for a few years, but at considerable loss financially.  The village of West union lost a public spirited citizen when he died in August 1888 (sic).  He was a leading member of the united Brethren Church in that place and with his own means with little or no aid from others, erected the first church of that denomination in his community.  One child, Russell W. was born of the first marriage of Joseph Bowsher. The wife and mother was a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and died in June 1840. She was a daughter of William and Sarah RUSSELL KENNEDY, natives of Pennsylvania who came to Ohio and thence in the fall of 1822 removed to Indiana and made settlement in Reserve Township, Parke County  During the winter following his arrival here, Mr. Kennedy engaged in teaching and in the spring of 1823 entered 240 acres in Liberty Township. About 1837 he sold that property and moved to Clay Co, Indiana where he purchased and improved 200 acres and also for a time was proprietor of a hotel.  He departed this life in 1872; his wife had died some 12 years prior to his demise. They were the parents of 3 sons and 4 daughters.  In his political preference Mr. Kennedy was a strong Whig and Abolitionist. Religiously, he was a Methodist.  He was the son of Martin Kennedy who emigrated from Ireland in Colonial days and settled in Pennsylvania.  The family is of Scotch origin and one of the ancestors participated in the siege of Boyne. The second wife of Joseph Bowsher was Marinda Kennedy, a sister of the first wife and mother of 5 children: John N; Rebecca J; Peter; Daniel and Sallie.  It is with the eldest of these children we are especially interested.  John N. Bowsher received a district school education and at the age of 20 commenced to farm for himself, operated a tract of 200 acres which formed a part of the old homestead of his grandfather.  He traded that property for 160 acres a part of his present farm.  This he had until he is the owner of 443 acres in addition to which his wife owns 23 acres in Reserve Township.  In politics Mr. Bowsher affiliates with the Democratic Party and socially is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.  In September 1863, our subject married Margaret HUXFORD who was born in Reserve Township, Parke Co In and is a daughter of Charles W. and Margaret REDDEN Huxford. Her father was a blacksmith in early life and later followed farming pursuits. Mr. and Mrs. Bowsher are the parents of 4 children: Marinda, wife of Erastus Garrard; Margaret who  died when 19 was married to J. P. Shoup and left one child, Margaret who makes her home with our subject and William A, who is at home. - Portrait & Biographical Record of Parke, Montgomery and Fountain Counties, Page. 354 -- Chapman Bros 1893

BOYD