Clinton County, Indiana Biographies Contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by Connie Rushing and Tonya Martin cj59_1999@yahoo.com ********************************************************************* **USGENWEB ARCHIVES NOTICE: These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit or presentation by any other organization or persons. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material, must obtain the written consent of the contributor, or the legal representative of the submitter, and contact the listed USGenWeb archivist with proof of this consent. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access. http://www.usgwarchives.net ********************************************************************* ** GARD, Oliver, M.D. GENTRY, Charles C. GERY, C. F. GOFF, Jonathan C. GOODNIGHT, Robert GROVE, James A. HAMILTON, Hugh R. HAMILTON, Thomas H. Rev. HANE, Cyrus M. HARDING, John A. HARSHMAN, Frank HEATON, Robert V. HEAVILON, Joseph HEAVILON, Oran P. HEDGCOCK, John S., HILL, James B HILLIS, Benjamin F. HILLIS, Joseph Etherton HINDS, Jesse HINES, William R. HOLLOWAY, Jefferson Parker ********************************************************************* ** GARD, Oliver, M.D. No profession wins greater respect and admiration from the people than that of the medical man. He is a servant of the public and a willing one. He must bear with him the confidences of many people. A father or mother entrusts to his care their dearest treasure-their child, and he is the one who stands between life and death. To say that he must be deft, skillful and learned in his profession is not saying all; he must also possess that assurance and confidence that is communicable, for therein lies half the battle. The subject of our sketch is not now engaged in the medical profession, but for so many years was he identified with the leading and best physicians of Frankfort, Ind., that his name will ever be the emblem of fair, tactful and successful administration. Oliver GARD was born on January 12, 1842, in Switzerland county, Ind., the son of Jesse and Amanda (MCHENRY) GARD. Jesse Gard was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, March 8, 1811, being the son of William and Sarah (WOODRUFF) GARD, who traveled from the Buckeye state to the Hoosier state many years ago, and settled in Switzerland county. William Gard, son of Jeremiah and Experience GARD, was born June 8, 1788, in Fayette county, Pa. He held the position of one of the leading men of Switzerland county in the early days and represented her in the first Legislature ever held in Indiana. He died April 14, 1827. He is remembered by his successful work in agriculture and the worthy descendants that have graced his name. He married in Ohio, and became the father of two children: Jesse, deceased, and Elizabeth, of Switzerland county. After the death of his first wife, Mr. Gard married her sister who bore him three children: William P., of Kansas; Julia and Sarah J., all deceased. Jesse Gard, son of the above and father of our subject, remained with his parents until the death of his father and then he was forced to assume largely the parental duties. In early manhood he married Amanda MCHENRY, a young girl from Hamilton county, O. She was born January 18, 1814, and lived to bring ten children to her husband: Perry W., deceased; Mrs. Charlotte MCKOWEN, of Frankfort; James, deceased; Oliver, Sarah, deceased; Mrs. Cynthia DRONBERGER, of Terre Haute; Mrs. Eliza CONOWAY, of Union county, Ind.; M. H., of Texas; and Edward E., a Wisconsin farmer. Dr. Oliver Gard moved when seven years of age with his parents to Clinton county. Here, amidst the rugged duties of the farm, he spent his early years. In the common schools he acquired a rudimentary education, and later, when seventeen years of age, he entered an academy at New London, where he studied industriously until the war of the Rebellion broke out. In September, 1861, Mr. Gard saw heavy service in the field, participating in the battles of Shiloh, Chickamauga, Jonesboro, and Perryville, and also served loyally for a time as hospital steward. On leaving the army Mr. Gard returned to Clinton county and formed a partnership with his brother Perry, carrying on an extensive mercantile and grain trade in the town of Middlefork. In 1866, Mr. Gard began the study of medicine with Dr. M. L. Martin, of Middlefork, under whose direction he continued a couple of years, making rapid progress in the meantime. He entered Rush Medical College, Chicago, in 1867, and completed the course there on February 3, 1869. He located in Middlefork with his preceptor and continued a most successful practice there until March, 1882, when he moved to the city of Frankfort, where he was likewise successful. In 1884, he was nominated by the Republican party to represent them in the state legislature, and while he ran far ahead of his ticket, he was defeated by the small majority of forty-five votes. In 1886 he was elected to serve as clerk of the circuit court, being the first Republican ever elected to that office in the county. In 1890, he was re-elected to the same position, serving until November 1, 1895. Dr. Gard has acted as president of the Clinton County Medical society and also belongs to the State Medical society of Indiana. In the educational world the doctor has always taken the greatest interest. As township trustee and member of the Frankfort school board, he has always stood for improvement nad (sic) progress. In later years, Dr. Gard discontinued his practice of medicine and entered the undertaking profession. Now he enjoys the reputation of being the leading undertaker and embalmer in Frankfort, Ind. Dr. Gard has been twice married, the first time in 1864 to Martha BUNNELL, of Howard county, the daughter of Ezra and Susan BUNNELL, of which union three children were born: Minnie, wife of Prof. Lewis RETTGER, of the State Normal school, Terre Haute: Mrs. Lennie HAYNES, of Evansville, and Mrs. Nina PULLEN, of Union county. The mother of these children was called by death on March 4, 1871, and on May 14, 1873, Dr. Gard married his present wife, India J. MERRICK, born March 10, 1850, the daughter of John and Nancy (TYNER) MERRICK. Six children have been born to her: Grace (deceased), Rush (deceased), Helen, Russell and two that died in infancy. Mrs. Gard is a member of the Methodist church in Frankfort, and shares equally with her husband in the esteem of the people. In religion, the doctor is a Methodist and was a lay delegate to the general conference held in Omaha, Nebraska, 1892, and for many years afterward was the efficient superintendent of the Sunday school at Frankfort. The doctor has a beautiful home in the city of Frankfort, and great deal of valuable land out in the county. He is classed, financially, as one of the most substantial citizens of Frankfort. Doctor Gard belongs to Clinton Lodge No. 54, in the Masonic fraternity, in which he has passed all the chairs, and he also belongs to the council, chapter and commandery, in all of which he has held the highest official positions. He is also a thirty-third degree Mason, having been elevated to same by his work in the order. He is an active member in Stone River Post No. 65, Grand Army of the Republic, and past post commander; he has belonged to the Improved Order of Red Men and Knights of Pythias, also to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Throughout his life he has been a strict advocate of temperance. Doctor Gard served two terms in the State senate in 1901 and 1903. He was elected mayor of Frankfort November 4, 1913. Source : Pages 379 - 381 History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** GENTRY, Charles C. Another one of the native sons of Clinton county who has shown a marked versatility in being able to make a living in many different things is Charles C. GENTRY, now proprietor of the Palace theater in the city of Frankfort, one of the leading playhouses of its kind in this section of the state. He quickly adjusts himself to new environments and makes a success of whatever he turns his attention to, and, being a gentleman who has the best interests of his town and county at heart and who believes in leading an honorable life, has the good will of his hundreds of patrons. Mr. Gentry was born in Center township, this county, February 19, 1856. He is a son of Dr. Z. B. and Charlotte R. (TETLOW) GENTRY. Z. B. Gentry, the father, was a physician of the old school. He received but a meager schooling, and learned medicine from persistent home study, and he became successful in his profession, enjoying a wide practice, which he attended to on horseback, riding all over the county. Politically, he was a Republican, and he did much for the general upbuilding of Clinton county in its earlier days. His death occurred on April 7, 1879, his widow surviving until March 12, 1909, reaching an advanced age. Charles C. Gentry grew up in his native town and here he has been content to spend his life, living to see many changes which have taken place here during that period of fifty-seven years. He was educated in the public and high schools of Frankfort. On October 15, 1893, Mr. Gentry married Minnie D. DORY, who was born in Cambridge City, Ind., February 14, 1877, a daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (GROSCOURT) DORY. The mother is deceased, but the father is living and making his home with our subject. He is a locomotive engineer by profession, and politically is a Republican. The union of our subject and wife has been without issue. After Mr. Gentry left school he entered the mercantile field in which he remained until 1876 when he became assistant postmaster at Frankfort under W. H. Hart, and he remained in that capacity until 1885, giving eminent satisfaction, then he had charge of the court room under Dr. Gard, later he went into the railway mail service in which he remained a number of years. He now owns and operates the Palace theater which he has conducted for over a year with most satisfactory results. He owns a neat home, which he built himself, at 709 East Wabash street, where he has resided since November, 1894. Fraternally, he belongs to the Knights of Pythias, and the Royal Arch Masons, both at Frankfort. Politically, he is a Republican. Source : Pages 513 - 514 History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** GERY, C. F. Energy, sound judgment and persistency of effort, properly applied, will always win the goal sought in the sphere of human endeavor, no matter what the environment may be or what obstacles are met with, for they who are endowed with such characteristics, make stepping-stones of their adversities to higher things. These reflections are suggested by the career of C. F. Gery, manager of the Colfax Grain Company, who, while yet young in years has shown himself to be the possessor of many commendable traits that never fail to win no matter what the vocation in life may be. With but little assistance of any kind he has forged his way to the front ranks among the representative young business men of Clinton county. Mr. Gery was born at Colfax, Indiana, December 10, 1888, and here he grew to manhood and received his education. He is a son of H. L. and Susan (FREES) GERY, a prominent and well known family of Colfax for many years, where the father engaged successfully in the mercantile business for a number of decades, building up an etxensive (sic) trade through his able management and honest dealings with his many customers. To H. L. Gery and wife six children were born, five sons and one daughter. Two of the sons are well known merchants of Colfax. The subject of this sketch is the youngest of the family. He began clerking in a store at an early age and gave evidence of rare natural business ability from the start and finally launched out in the grain business, and, learning rapidly the ins and outs of the same eventually became manager of the Colfax Grain Company, one of the largest business firs of its kind in this part of the state, and, owing to our subject's able management and courteous and honest treatment of patrons it is rapidly growing. Of this firm, John WAUGH is president, William TYSON, secretary, and H. R. WOODBURN, treasurer, the two latter being also trustees. The elevator has a capacity of one thousand bushels per day, or three hundred and fifty thousand bushels annually. The buildings are large, substantial, up-to-date and commodious, equipped with all modern machinery and appliances, everything denoting thrift and good management. Modern mill machinery has been installed for grinding feed and corn chops of all kinds. Standard brands of flour and all kinds of feed are kept on sale, and their operations cover a very large territory. Mr. Gery was married on July 19, 1910, to Adah Estelle REEVES, who was born, reared and educated in Crawfordsille, Indiana, where her family has long been prominent, she being a daughter of William REEVES and wife. Politically, Mr. Gery is a Democrat, but he has never been especially active in public affairs. Fraternally, he is a member of the Masonic Order, No. 417; also belongs to the Knights of Pythias, Mercy Lodge. Source : Pages 513-514 History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** GOFF, Jonathan C. Perhaps in no profession in the world is prosperity and success so universal as in agriculture. A poor farmer is a rarity, especially in Clinton county, and if one is found who obtains a substantial living with difficulty it does not mean that he is a failure in life. Upon investigation it will be found that many times has he put his shoulder to a friend's wheel and aided others, whereby he hurt himself. Those are the unnumbered heroes. However, that does not fit the case of our subject, for he is known as one of the most well-to-do men of the county and state, at the same time retaining all the qualities which make a popular man, which qualities in other men have often been dulled and stunted by the acquisition of wealth. Jonathan Goff was born April 10, 1852, in Johnson township, Clinton county, and was the son of Charles W. and Hester (KERRY) GOFF. Charles Goff as a native of Indiana, having, lived in both Clinton and Hamilton counties. He followed farming all of his life, and in politics was a Democrat. He died in 1864. The mother was also a native of Hamilton county. Twelve children were bron (sic) to this union, five of whom, as follows, are living: Becky E. KEMP, Perry, Jonathan, Charles and Mary BOWMAN. Jonathan Goff has been twice married. His first wife was Lucinda Jane RECTOR, daughter of Moses and Rachel (GIBSON) RECTOR, both natives of Indiana. She was born October 22, 1852, in Sugar Creek township, Clinton county. The wife died January 12, 1911, leaving fourteen children, as follows: Charles Victor, born October 17, 1872, and married to Amanda ROBINSON; Mrs. Mary BARTELS, born May 18, I876; Mrs. Dora WILLIAMS, born December 17, 1877; Mrs. Arzona TUDER, born September 12, 1880; Mrs. Sylvia KENT, born November 7, 1881; Mrs. Daisy MYERS, born June 25, 1883; Maggie E, born March 26, 1885, died January 20, 1907; Amos S., born March 29, 1882, died April I2, 1903; Western E., born September 7, 1889, married Madge KEYS; Melvin M., born February 13, 1897; Belvie Pearl, born September 13, is 1897; The others are not named. The second wife, whom Mr. Goff married on April 30, 1913, was Mrs. Luly THOMPSON, nee PATRICK. Our subject has been a farmer all his life, and it has meant prosperity and success to him from the beginning. In the year I855 Mr. Goff moved to the state of Nebraska and farmed there until November, 1897, when he returned to Indiana. He is now living retired from the active duties of his farm, but sees to its proper management. Mr. Goff owns eight hundred and forty acres of land where he lives and two hundred more in Kirklin township, near Cyclone. Of the farm here all is tillable except forty acres, which is in good pasture and timber land. The land is equipped with the latest improvements, added by Mr. Goff himself. He has also dealt in live stock a little, at one time taking an interest in the breeding of Belgian horses. Fraternally, Mr. Goff is a Woodman at Hillsburg, and politically is a Democrat. Mr. Goff's second wife was previously married, twice, her first husband being James CAHOON and her second William THOMPSON. By her first marriage there were three children, Blanche, Oris and John, the latter deceased. She was a daughter of John and Christy Ann (DIEHL) PATRICK, natives of Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, who came to Clinton county, Indiana, in an early day. Source : Pages 565 & 566. History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** ROBERT GOODNIGHT, junior member of the firm of J. W. Hedgcock & Co., general merchants, Michigantown, Clinton county, Ind., was born August 21, 1859, and was reared on a farm in this county. He descends from a German family, whose advent in this country took place before the Revolutionar war. WiIliam Goodnight, father of Robert, was born in Hardy county, Va., August 28, 1828, and when twenty years of age came to Indiana and located in Montgomery county, where he married Mary MOSS, daughter of John and Sarah (WEST) MOSS, and by this marriage became the father of the following children: Reptia, an infant now deceased; John, Robert and Alice. Robert Goodnight's paternal grandfather, Jacob Goodnight, came to Indiana with his family and made the settlement in Montgomery county. The maternal grandfather, Alec WEST, was born close to Spartanburg, N. C., and subsequently settled in Marion county, Ind. John MOSS the paternal grandfather on the mother's side, was also a native of North Carolina, and was born close to Spartanburg. He also settled in Marion county, Ind., and later removed to Montgomery county, where he spent the balance of his life. Mary Goodnight's grandfather's name, on her father's side, was William Moss, who came from England to North Carolina, settled near Raleigh, and his wife's name was Malinda (FRY) MOSS. Mary Goodnight's grandfather's name, on her mother's side, was Daniel WEST, and his wife's name was Mary (LOFTEN) WEST. Robert Goodnight was reared a farmer in Clinton county, and received a very good common school education. At the age of twenty he entered the profession of teaching, which he followed five years consecutively, making an entire success. His present business interests are indicated at the opening of this biographical notice, and he is, beside, the owner of a handsome cottage in the village of Michigantown. The first marriaige of Mr. Goodnight took place January 1, 1885 to Rebecca Whiteman, daughter of Samuel B. and Elvina (RICHARDSON) WHITEMAN -- the former a farmer of large means, and to this union was born Ruby, the father's idol. But Mr. Goodnight was bereaved of his wife January 25, 1891. She had a loving spouse and died in the faith of the Christian chrch on March 14. 1893. Mr Goodnight took for his companion through life Isabel FISKEN, who had done good service during the late war. Mr and Mrs. Goodnight are members of the Christian church, and in politics he is a democrat. Fraternally he is a K. of P., Rubien lodge, No. 340, and is also a dormant member of the I. O. R. M. Source: Pages 697 - 698. A Portrait And Biographical Record of Boone and Clinton Counties, Ind., ... Containing Biographical Sketches of Many Prominent and Representative Citizens, Together with Biographies and Portraits of all the Presidents of the United States, and Biographies of the Governors of Indiana. Published 1895 by A.W. Bowen & Co. in Chicago. ****************** GROVE, James A. Another of Clinton county's substantial farmers is James A. Grove, who led an eminently useful career, devoted to the interests of himself and community. Coming to this county when the land was just assuming a profitable state he grew up and learned the art of agriculture, becoming one of the respectable citizens. Success such as his is the reward of perseverance and integrity. The cursory record herein set forth will, we hope, place before the eyes of future generations a tale worthy of emulation. It is regrettable that more and adequate scope is not affarded (sic) in which to properly comment on our subject's life. James A. Grove first saw the light of day on February 24, 1864, in Fayette county, Ohio. He was the son of Jacob and Nancy (ARMSTRONG) GROVE. Jacob Grove was a native of the Old Dominion, and Nancy Grove came from the Buckeye state; the former died in 1866 and the latter in 1888. Jacob enlisted in 1862 in the ninety day service, and after that time he reenlisted and served valiantly to the end of the conflict in 1865. He was a farmer by occupation. Seven children bore his name, as follows: Susan, Abe, Henry, Agnes, Anis, Albert, James A., and Dora, who is deceased. James A. Grove was fortunate enough to receive a common school training in his youth, after which he immediately took up farming. He was married July 22, 1888, to Jennie M. HILLIS, who was born in Johnson township, Clinton county, on December 13, 1868, the daughter of John and Savannah (JACKSON) HILLIS, natives of Rush county, Indiana. Mrs. Grove received a common and high school education. Six children were born to this union, namely: Verna, Hillis, Lloyd, Frank, Thyrsa, and Thyryl, who is deceased. Mr. Grove owns three hundred and twenty-five acres of land in this township and it is all tillable with the exception of forty acres which is in timber and pasture. The place is fairly well fenced and adequately tiled. On this place Mr. Grove carries on high class farming. Fraternally, Mr. Grove belongs to the Improved Order of Red Men at Scircleville, and politically, is a Republican. He devotes his time to the interests of his chosen vocation. Source : Pages 735 - 736. History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** HUGH R. HAMILTON, prominent farmer and stock raiser of Washington township, Clinton County, was born in Preble county, Ohio, September 8, 1824, the son of Alexander and Elizabeth HAMILTON. Alexander was the son of Samuel HAMILTON, whose father, Alexander, a native of the north of Ireland, served seven years in the Revolutionary war. From the most reliable information obtainable the Hamiltons appear to have been originally from Scotland, and it is learned that one Archibald , HAMILTON father of the above-named Alexander, moved from Scotland to the north of Ireland a number of years before the dawn of the present century. His son, Alexander emigrated to America in the time of the colonies and died a number of years ago in Preble county, Ohio. The subject's Grandfather, Samuel HAMILTON, was born in South CaroIina, later removed to Kentucky, thence moved to Ohio, where his death occurred. Alexander HAMILTON, father of Hugh R., was a native of South Carolina, born November 8, 1796, and his wife, whose maiden name was Elizabeth RAMSEY, was born September 19, 1793, in the state of Vlrginia. Mrs. HAMILTON was the daughter of John and Elizabeth (LACKEY) RAMSEY, natives of Virginia, and of Irish and Scotch descent, respectively. John RAMSEY was the son of William Ramsey, who was born in Ireland. Mrs. Elizabeth HAMILTON died January 31, 1861, and her husband departed this life on the fourth day of March 1879. They were the parents of ten children, only one of whom, the subject of this sketch, is now living. The names of the other members of the family are as follows: John L., Samuel, Jane, Eliza, James, Francis R., Mary, David R. and George C. Hugh R. HAMILTON was reared on the farm and received what was termed in those days a good common-school education. He came to Clinton county, Ind., with his father in I839, and remained under the parental roof until his twenty-seventh year, at which time, on the eleventh day of December, 1845, he entered into the marriage relation with Mary B. COULTER, daughter of James and Mary (BROWN) COULTER. The father of Mrs. HAMILTON was an early settler of North Carolina. His wife was born in South Carolina, and Mrs. HAMILTON was their only child, the date of her birth being February 25, 1824. Seven children have blessed the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. HAMILTON , the following of whom are living: Martha E., wife of John J. Richards, born August 22, 1853; Hugh A., born February 21, 1856; Jessie, born November 11, 1861; Charles C., born September 15, 1863, and Barbara J., born September 1, 1867. The following are the names of those deceased: Elizabeth, born September 15, 1846, died June 12, 1871 ; and James B., born November 11, 1849, died April 26, 1850. Mr. and Mrs. HAMILTON have acquired a comfortable competence of this world's goods, owning a fine farm of 340 acres in Washington township, upon which Mr. Hamilton has, erected a fine brick residence -- one of the best farm dwellings in his part of the county. Politically, Mr. Hamilton is a republican, and as such was twice elected to the office of county commissioner, the duties of which responsible position he discharged with ability and commendable fidelity. He a member of the United Presbyterian church, in which, since 1852, he has been an elder. Mrs. Hamilton belongs to the same church, and is an earnest, active religious worker. Source: Pages 706 - 707. A Portrait And Biographical Record of Boone and Clinton Counties, Ind., ... Containing Biographical Sketches of Many Prominent and Representative Citizens, Together with Biographies and Portraits of all the Presidents of the United States, and Biographies of the Governors of Indiana. Published 1895 by A.W. Bowen & Co. in Chicago. ****************** REV. THOMAS H. HAMILTON -- The paternal ancestors of the gentleman whose name introduces this notice were Scotch, and his grandfather, John HAMILTON, left the old country a number of years ago, immigrating to America in colonial times, and, after the Revolutionary war, settling in Kentucky, where his death occurred. He held a major's commission in the American army during the war of independence and took a courageous part in that struggle from the beginning to the end, and distinguished himself on many a bloody battlefield. He was the father of nine children, named as follows -- Abner, Alexander, Ferdinand, John, Archibald, Andrew, Peggy, Betsy and Catherine. Andrew Hamilton, father of Thomas M., was born in Virginia, and when young was taken by his parents to Kentucky , where he subsequently married Mary MILLER. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, came to Boone county, Ind., in 1832, entered land and became a well-to-do farmer, and died November 23, 1855. His second wife was Betsy RANDOLPH, who died in 1834, and in 1837 he was united in marriage to Jane RICHARDSON, whose death occurred in the year 1878. Andrew HAMILTON was the father of two children -- John R., who died in February, 1840, and Thomas M., the subject of this sketch, who first saw the light of day May 1, 1822, in Montgomery county, Ky. Thomas M. HAMILTON was about ten years old when brought by his parents to Boone county, Ind., and he grew to manhood on a farm, attending, in the meantime, the subscription schools of the country, In which he obtained a fair knowledge of the branches usually taught. On arriving at manhood's estate he chose agriculttire as a pursuit, and continued the same about twelve years, purchasing his first land, consisting of seventv-five acres, in 1843. Subsequently he purchased additional land and now owns 120 acres in the township of Jackson, although for a number of years he has not been actively engaged in farming, merely giving his attention to the management of his place. From early life Mr. HAMILTON took deep interest in religious matters, and in 1852 entered the ministry of the United Brethren church, with which he has since been prominently identified. His first circuit had twenty-one appointments, which he filled once every three weeks, and it is a fact worthy of note that, the first year of his ministry, he was constantly on the go and preached over 400 sermons. Within the circuit to which he ministered as regular pastor were the following congregations: Lebanon, Ladoga, Chambersburg, Green Hill, Concord and Crawfordsville. In 1857 Mr. Hamilton was elected presiding elder, and he has held that important position for a period of twenty-seven years, having been re-elected eight different times to the general conference. He is still actively enaged in the work of the ministry, and bids fair to be of effective service for a number of years to come in the good work to which so many years of his life have been devoted. While not a politician in the sense in which that term is generally understood, Mr. Hamilton has ever manifested a deep interest in public affairs and has always maintained that politics should be made a careful study by every true American citizen. He is a republican and as such was elected a member of the state senate in 1868, serving four years, and in 1880 was elected to represent Boone county in the lower house of the general assembly. Mr. HAMILTON was married, December 8, I840, to Prudence LARKIN, daughter of Jonathan and Keziah (ANTRIM) LARKIN, natives of New Jersey and of Irish descent. The family of Mrs. HAMILTON can be traced back many generations in the old country to Lord ANTRIM, one of the old nobility of the Emerald isle. Her grandfather, John LARKIN, came to America a number of years ago and reared a family, among whom was Jonathan, father of Mrs. Hamilton. He died in 1830 and his wife in 1856. The following are the names of their children: William, Elisha, Sarah, Mariah, Joseph, John and Prudence, the last named being the only family living at this time. To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. HAMILTON the following children have been born: John R., born August 9, 1841, is a lawyer of Norton, Kansas; Maria PP., born November 25, 1843, married Samuel West and died in the year 1883; George W., born March 25, 1847, died August 22,1849; Matilda, born August 24, 1849, died May 28, 1876; Larkin P., born December 10, 1852 ; Andrew A., born September 8, 1857; Abraham L., born September 29, 1860; Rosella M., born January 24,1868. John R. HAMILTON, the oldest son, served in the late war in company D, Seventeenth Indiana infantry, and took part in a number of battles, including Greenbriar, Howes Gap, Chickamauga, and was discharged in June, 1864. He is now a prominent lawyer of Norton, Kan. Source: Pages 707 - 708. A Portrait And Biographical Record of Boone and Clinton Counties, Ind., ... Containing Biographical Sketches of Many Prominent and Representative Citizens, Together with Biographies and Portraits of all the Presidents of the United States, and Biographies of the Governors of Indiana. Published 1895 by A.W. Bowen & Co. in Chicago. ****************** HANE, Cyrus M. The hand of the journalist is truly mighty. No matter how big or how little he may be, his well-aimed remarks in the town sheet carry double weight, and therefore his mission and responsibility are great. He must be judicious, clever, fair, and ever promoting the interests of the people whom he serves. The Kirklin Journal is a newspaper devoted to the welfare of the Clinton county pople (sic), and carries the name of being a clean, interesting. and modern publication. This has been largely due to the untiring efforts of the publisher, whose name heads this review, and who, by his energetic efforts toward the betterment of the community, has won the friendship and support of the county as a whole. Cyrus M. HANE was born June 8, 1842, in Harrison county, 0. His father was a native of Maryland, and served in the Civil War in the First Virginia Infantry of the Union army. Cyrus Hane received a common school education which was interrupted in 1861, when was nineteen years old, by the outbreak of the war. Mr. Hane enlisted in Company D, Second Virginia Infantry, under Captain Gibson. This regiment was afterward changed by the war department to the Fifth West Virginia Cavalry. He served the Union cause valiantly for his full time and then was honorably discharged. On February 14, 1865, he re-enlisted in Company G. Second United States Veteran Volunteers, Hancock's corps, and served until Feb. 14, 1866. Mr. Hane participated in the second battle of Bull Run and several other engagements. In 1865 Mr. HANE was married in Mary M. CHAPMAN, who died in 1882. On October 21, 1900, he again married to Emma STOTTS, an Indiana woman. He has one child, Daisy E., by his first wife, and she now resides in Knox, Ind. Mr. Hane moved to the Hoosier state from Ohio, and first settled in the town of Mitchell, at which place he took charge of the Mitchell Commercial. Later he went to Elwood, Ind., and established the Elwood Leader, and then to Knox, Stark county, Ind., where he assumed charge of the Stark County Republican. After four years there, he again traveled to Vernon, Ind.. and had control of the Vernon Journal. He purchased the Kirklin Journal in November, 1902, and for ten years has managed it with great success. A year ago he became associated with E. T. JONES, and they formed a working partnership which now exists. Mr. Hanes belongs to the Free and Accepted Masons, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias, and Grand Army of the Republic. He is a member of the Presbyterian church at Kirklin and in politics is a Progressive. E. P. JONES, partner of Mr. Hane was born March 6, 1872 in Jennings county, Indiana, the son of Thomas and Lydia S. (ALLEY) JONES. Thomas C. JONES was a Welshman, having been born in South Wales, England in February, 1819. He moved to the United when but a boy and first settled in Baltimore, Md. Later he moved Ohio, at which place he was married. He came to Indiana in 1854, and there died in the month of July, 1893. Lydia S. JONES, the mother, was born May, 1831, in Ohio, and she died October 18, 1887. The father was a wholesale furniture dealer by trade and he followed this all his life. In the spring of 1861, he joined the ranks of One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Company A, and served until 1865 as a first lieutenant; he was then honorably discharged. Six children came to his family, four of whom are living. These four are: Margaret, Maud, and E. P. After receiving a common school education, E. P. Jones made his start in a pharmacy college. He took a position with a drug company in Colorado, and afterward, for a space of six years, was connected with Rocky Mountain Telephone company. He has been a capable printer all of his life, and worked at his trade in North Vernon, Ind., just before coming to Kirklin to go into business with Mr. Hane. Fraternally, Mr. Jones belongs to the Improved Order of Red Men, the Knights of Pythias, and the Free and Accepted Masons. He is a member of the Presbyterian church and attaches himself to the Democratic party. Source : Pages 597 - 598. History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** HARDING, John A. There are certain trades that possess in indefinable charm, and among them is that of blacksmithing. The smithy's shop in the small town is a place where children congregate and the politics of the day are discussed by their elders. The smithy is a man of prominence and his invariable good nature makes him a friend to all. This quality has been immortalized in poetry and song, and ever, especially to the younger generation, the forge and anvil and the "mighty man" above them will linger long in their memories. Clinton county has her blacksmiths, among them John A. HARDING, and about him we tell in this review. John HARDING was born December 31, 1855, in Kirklin county, Indiana. He was the son of Samuel and Delilah (THOMPSON) HARDING, natives of Ohio. Samuel HARDING was born in Union county, Indiana. August 25, 1833, and in 1846 moved to Clinton county. He gained a common school education and after leaving the schoolroom he took up the trade of blacksmithing in Kirklin, an occupation he followed nearly all of his life, shoeing horses until after he was seventy-five years of age. Twelve children made up his family. They were: John, Robert (dec.), Orlando C., Kate R., Lily L. (dec.), 0. T. (dec.), Minnie (dec.), Frank S. and Pearl: remainder not named, having died in infancy. John HARDING attended the public schools in Kirklin during his boyhood days, and spent his time otherwise learning the trade he was to follow from his father. Mr. HARDING was married September 29, 1882, to Emma McKAY, the daughter of James and Margaret (MART) McKAY, and born in Clinton county, Ohio, December 9, 1860. Her father died when she was but a baby and the mother is cared for part of the time now in John HARDING's home in Kirklin. Mrs. HARDING received a common school education, and is the mother of three children: John G., born June, 1883; Fanny L., married to George KUTZ, a Kirklin druggist, and Anna L. John HARDING has always followed the blacksmithing trade. He began with just a small shop and now owns a large and completely equipped place, also a two-story brick factory where he has the latest machinery installed for the making of buggies, farm wagons and implements of use to the farmer. He also paints buggies and does much rubber tiring. Mr. HARDING has, in the course of his studies in his chosen trade, invented a patent storm top for buggies and automobiles. He has obtained a patent on his contrivance and sells a number to Clinton county people. Mr. HARDING belongs to the Improved Order of Red Men at Kirklin, and also is affiliated with the Masonic order. He is a loyal member of the Presbyterian church and is one of their strongest supporters. Politically, he believes in the principles of the Democratic party. Source : Pages 552 -553. History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** HARSHMAN, Frank The name of Frank Harshman, well-known citizen of Madison township, Clinton county, stands, as did that of his esteemed father before him, for progressive ideas in reference, both to agricultural pursuits and public affairs, and we are glad to give his personal record and that of his family in these pages, for such people are the class that advance civilization and make this world, none too elysian-like at best, a falrly fit place in which to live. Mr. Harshman was born on the farm where he now lives, on June 15, 1872. He is a son of Henry C. and Kate (SHOCKEY) HARSHMAN, an old pioneer couple of this locality. Henry C. Harshman was a son of Henry and Molly (FOGEL) HARSHMAN. Henry Harshman was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, December 22, 1797. From there his parents moved to Greene county, Ohio, when he was a child and there he was reared and married. Later in life he removed to Clinton county, Indiana, locating in the woods in Madison township, and here he developed a home and died here on August 20, 1843, and is buried in John Seager's cemetery. His wife was born in MaryIand. February 8, 1800. She was quite young when her parents removed from the old Oriole state to Greene county, Ohio. She died in Clinton county, Indiana, at the home of Moses Harshman in May, 1876, and is buried in Jefferson cemetery. The grandfather of Henry, Peter Harshman, was born in Germany, from which county he came to America when a young man in the Old Colonial days, and he served seven years in the patriot army in the Revolutionary War. He afterward settled in Rockingham county, Virginia, where he was married, and after a few years removed to Greene county, Ohio, where he died in the fall of 1827 at the age of eighty-two years. H is wife was an English woman and lived in Greene county, Ohio. Mr. Harshman's father and all his sons were Democrats except Moses. When the family came to this country, deer, bear and other wild animals were in abundance. The elder Harshman at one time killed three bears as fast as he could load his gun. Henry C. Harshman, father of the immediate subject of this sketch, was born February 3, 1841, the same year in which President McKinley was born. He devoted his life to farming, acquiring valuable farming property through his thrift, and his death occurred here in Madison township, Clinton county, on September 25, 1902. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and was a Democrat. His wife, Kate SHOCKEY, died July 28, 1900, at the age of sixty-two years. To them nine children were born, seven of whom are still living, namely: Alonzo E., Bertha, Grice, Lettie Mercer, Frank, subject of this sketch; Richard, Lawrence, Albert, Harry, and Mrs. Kate AYRES. Frank Harshman was reared on the old home place and he received a common school education. He was married June 15, 1898, to Laura J. WESNER, who was born in Wayne county, Indiana. She is a daughter of Rev. J. WESNER, a well-known minister of the gospel in Darke county, Ohio. He was born in Davies county, Indiana. He married Lucinda KLINGENSMITH, who was born in Marion county, Indiana. To them two children were born, Mrs. Laura Harshman and Neva. Mr. Harshman moved to the old farm in 1912. His place consists of one hundred acres of good and well improved land. He has a good home and substantial outbuildings. To Mr. and Mrs. Harshman three children have been born, Henry Harold, born August 11, 1899; Freda M., born March 20, 1903, and Martin Luther, born August 19, 1913. The daughter is musically inclined and is being educated in music. Mr. Harshman is a member of the Lutheran church, and to the Knights of Pythias. Source : Pages 789 - 790 History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** HEATON, Robert V. The world has realized more than ever during the past few years that the real source of progress is the farmer and his fields. Wall street and the stock markets, human subsistence, trades and vocations, education, and even our pleasures, depend solely on the agriculturist, and in turn the mechanical world has supplied him with contrivances for the economy of labor and increased production, so that the ever growing demands of the hungry millions may be satisfied. The farmer has responded nobly to this situation and has modernized himself to every possible extent, and to the degree that the present type cannot be called a "rube," but a highly cultivated and educated citizen, with knowledge and habits the same as his city brother. Such a man is Mr. Heaton, whom we write of in this sketch. He is a worthy and representative type. Mr. Heaton was born February 28, 1854, in Michigan township, Clinton county, Indiana, and was the son of Alfred and Levici (JULIAN) HEATON. Alfred Heaton was a native of the Hoosier state and he died in 1902. The mother was also born in Indiana. Both parents had a common school education, and the father followed farming all of his life, and was a Democrat. Six children were born to the union, namely: one infant, Alice, Hester A., and Vesper, all deceased, and James and Robert, now living. Robert, our subject, received his elementary education in Michigan township. Mr. Heaton was married April 5, 1876, to Elizabeth BEEABOUT, who was born April 22, 1853, in Fayette county, Indiana, and was the daughter of Peter and Ann (Parker) BEEABOUT. Six children have been born to our subject and wife, namely: Claudius; Eva; Angie married Orville COY, who died June 7, 1912, leaving her with one child, Robert, both now living with our subject; Ethel (deceased), Erchel and Glenn (deceased). Mr. Heaton has been a farmer all of his life in this county. He has now retired from active work, however, but still manages his eighty acres of fertile and well improved land. Besides general farming, he raises Jersey and a mixed breed of cows, Poland China hogs, and Plymouth Rock chickens. Religiously, Mr. Heaton is a member of God's church, and in politics is a Prohibitionist. Source : Pages 551 - 552 History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** JOSEPH HEAVILON, A highly respected and public-spirited citizen of Washington township, Clinton county is Joseph HEAVILON, a man who has lived a life of industry and has dealt honestly with his fellow men, so that he is every way deserving of the esteem which is gladly accorded him by his wide acquaintance. He has lived to see the community develop from a wild state into one of the foremost farming localities in the Hoosier state, and he has played well his part in the transformation. Mr. Heavilon hails from the Badger state, having been born at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1840, a son of Taylor HEAVILON, who was born in 1808, in Monmouth county, New Jersey. The mother of our subject was Sally POTTER, a native of Rutland, Vermont. The father of our subject was a carpenter and contractor. He came to Chicago in 1833, about the time of the treaty with Chief Black Hawk. He moved to Milwaukee in 1845. He had been in Indiana as early as 1828. The father of our subject died at the age of sixty-six years, in 1874. The mother survived until 1907, reaching the advanced age of eighty-six years. Six children were born to them, namely: Lydia, Joseph, Charlotte, Kygar, Abel and Franklin. The father of our subject was a Universalist in religion, and the mother belonged to the Episcopal church. Joseph HEAVILON received a common school education. In 1865, he married Virginia P. CASTER, a daughter of Richard Caster, of Virginia. The union of our subject and wife resulted in the birth of three children, namely: Mrs. Sally GROVES, Jesse who lives in this county; and Mrs. Virginia P. KNAPP, wife of George B. M. KNAPP, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Mr. HEAVILON's first wife died in 1873 and in 1875 he married Jessie CASTER, a sister of his first wife, and to this union three children were born, namely: R. M. is a banker of Frankfort: Harry, Joseph, Jr., Mary, Daisy, Fanny, Gertrude, Harold and Hobert. These children were given good educations, some attending Purdue University at Lafayette, Indiana. Our subject and sons own one thousand acres of fine land and they carry on general farming and stock raising on an extensive scale. They have a pleasant home and are popular in the township. Source : Pages 769 - 770. History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** HEAVILON, Oran P. The township of Warren, in the county of Clinton, has long been noted for its fine farms and excellent class of citizens, and a prominent representative of the latter is found in the person of Oran P. HEAVILON, who his been content to spend his life in his native county, for he has been a beleiver (sic) in its productiveness, its fortunate location and in its superiority to most counties in the middle West. Mr. HEAVILON was born September 25, 1854, in Washington township, Clinton county. He is a son of Tavlor and Sally (POTTER) HEAVILON. The faher was born in Butler county, Ohio, where he spent his early years, and received his education in the district schools. While yet a young man he removed to Clinton county, where he was married and established the future home of the family. He was a carpenter by trade, which he followed successfully, also engaged in farming. His death occurred on December 25, 1872. His family was large, consisting of twelve children, six of whom are still living: Lydia, Joseph, Charlotte, Abe, Frank and Oran P., of this sketch. Oran P. HEAVILON grew to manhood on the home place in Washington township, and received his education in the rural schools there. On October 19, I882, he married Ida KOONTZ, who was born in Clinton county March 25, 1863. She was a daughter of George and Catherine (McNETT) KOONTZ. The father was born in Maryland and the mother was a native of Ohio. They are both now deceased. Mrs. HEAVILON grew to womanhood in her native community and received a common schol (sic) education. She was called to eternal rest on September 12, 1911. She was a devout member of the United Brethren church in Washington township, but after removing to Warren township she united with the Presbyterian church, and was active in the support of the same and in its work up to her death. She was a kind neighbor, mother and wife, beloved by her many friends for her numerous splendid characteristics. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. HEAVILON: Raymond, April 30, 1884, died in October of that year: Mabel, June 25, 1886: Frank, June 20, 1894. Mr. HEAVILON has always engaged in farming, first in Washington township, from which he removed to his present home in Warren township in 1905. Here he owns one hundred and twenty acres of excellent land, all tillable but five acre, his place being known as Sugar Grove Farm. He has a good set of buildings, fencing and tiling. There is a beautiful grove in front of his home. He carries on general farming and raises Jersey cows, Duroc hogs and general purpose horses. Politically, Mr. Heavilon is a Republican, but while an intelligent advocate of all kinds of public improvements, he is not a public man in any sense of the word, remaining at home with his family and looking after his farm. Source : Pages 848 - 849. History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** JOHN S. HEDGCOCK, a retired citizen of Frankfort, Ind., was born in Ashford, Kent county, England, January 24, 1826, and is a son of Vane and Marie (WEST) HEDGCOCK, a family of some note in the old country. The youthful days of John S. were variously pursued until he came to America in 1849 Here he first located in Syracuse, N. Y., but shortly afterward moved to Dresden, Ohio, where he prosperously entered the boot and shoe business, and May 30, 1852, married Miss Nancy ROSS, daughter of James and Nancy ROSS. Two years later, 1854, he came to Indiana and located at Michigantown, Clinton county, where he followed the retail shoe business until the fall of 1864, when he patriotically enlisted in the defense of his adopted country in company G, Fifty-first Indiana volunteer infantry, and served until the close of the war. Returning to Michigantown he resumed his business, but finally retired to Frankfort, where he is living in peace and comfort. Unto him and his admirable wife were born the following children, all of whom, that are living, being an honor to his advanced years: James A., John W. Charles V., Oliver P., Lula Marie, Jennie P, and Nellie (the last named deceased.) Having had the misfortune of losing his first help-meet. Nancy, February 7, 1879, Mr. Hedgcock married, August 23, 1880, Miss Elizabeth HUBBARD, who came from Huntington, England, about one year before her marriage. Mrs. HEDGCOCK is a consistent member of the Episcopal church, while her husband is a devout Methodist. But at the same time, it may be mentioned that Mr. Hedgecock is a Free-mason as well as a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. Source: Page 710. A Portrait And Biographical Record of Boone and Clinton Counties, Ind., ... Containing Biographical Sketches of Many Prominent and Representative Citizens, Together with Biographies and Portraits of all the Presidents of the United States, and Biographies of the Governors of Indiana. Published 1895 by A.W. Bowen & Co. in Chicago. ****************** HILL, James B The foundation of prosperity in Indiana is agriculture and the faithful husbandman can truly be called a pillar of the state, though in an inconspicuous way. Such was James B. Hill, the memory of whose labors remains, though he has passed from this life. Mr. Hill was born in Hamilton, O., August, 1828. When he was but a lad of eight years his parents brought him to Tippecanoe county and settled on a farm where they remained during the life-time of the parents. The tribulations endured by the early pioneers were not unknown to the Hill family but they weathered the hardships in grand style and succeeded. Mr. HILL was married to Mrs. Margaret (SOUTHARD) ROSS, a widow, on February 12, 1880. She was the daughter of Aaron H. and Nancy (LEMON) SOUTHARD. Her father was a native of New Jersey, and came to Butler county, Ohio, when but a baby. Afterward he moved to Jefferson, Ind., where he was a merchant, then to Frankfort. He has the distinction of being one of the earliest settlers in the county following his trade as a merchant all the time. At one time it was estimated that he owned a large part of the east side of Frankfort. He had six children, four of whom are still living. No children were born to and Mr. and Mrs. James HILL, but she has two children by her first husband, John F. ROSS, they being Charles W. and John F. ROSS. Mr. SOUTHARD was a merchant in Frankfort, all his life. He had no ambitions to shine in the limelight of publicity by entering political life, but he supported the Democratic party very materially. He attended the Presbyterian church. James B. HILL was a farmer most of his life, following that vocation in Tippecanoe county until he moved to Frankfort about fifteen fears ago. The remainder of his life he spent retired. Fraternally, he was a member of the Masonic Order, and in religion was a Presbyterian. Source : Pages 655 - 656 History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** BENJAMIN F. HILLIS, the wealthiest resident land owner in Johnson township, Clinton county, Ind., his place of birth, was born December 26, 1857. His grandfather, John HILLIS, was a resident of Fayette county, Ind., and his son, Anderville HILLIS, the father of Benjamin F., was born in Fayette county, March 27, I827. Anderville Hillis was educated in the old-fashioned log school-house, and in turn taught a year in a house of the same description. He married Mary A. FRAZIER, a daughter of Williamson and Clarissa (THATCHER) FRAZIER. To this union the following children were born: John, Elizabeth, Benjamin F., George and Clara Belle, of whom, Benjamin F. and Clara Belle alone are living. Anderville HILLIS was a member of Herman lodge, No. 184, F & A. M., was a Methodist in religion and a democrat in politics. At the time of his death, which occurred in 1878, he was the owner of 800 acres of land, which he had acquired with the aid of his industrious and economical helpmate, who is still living on the old farm. Benjamin F. Hillis has been closely identified with the progress of Johnson township ever since he has been old enough to form a conception of the meaning of the word. He married Caroline McDora PRUITT, daughter of John and Nancy (STEWART) PRUITT, whose historv appears on another page, and this union has been made the happier by the birth of four children, viz; Mabel D., Myrl A., Maud E. and Colonel. The farm of Mr. Hillis comprises 670 acres of very fertile land, which is in a very high state of cultivation, and is improved with three good farm residences and proper outbuildings. He has made a specialty of breeding registered short-horned cattle, and during the past fifteen years has done more to elevate the grade of cattle in his township than any other breeder within its limits. He does not breed for mere pleasure or stock-show pride, but from a business point of view. Mr. Hillis is a stanch democrat, but is in no sense an office seeker. It may be incidentally remarked that Hillisburg is named for his uncle, John E. Hillis. The family is one of the oldest and most opulent in the township and is most highly respected. Source: Page 723. A Portrait And Biographical Record of Boone and Clinton Counties, Ind., ... Containing Biographical Sketches of Many Prominent and Representative Citizens, Together with Biographies and Portraits of all the Presidents of the United States, and Biographies of the Governors of Indiana. Published 1895 by A.W. Bowen & Co. in Chicago. ****************** HILLIS, Joseph Etherton In placing the name of the late Joseph E. HILLIS in the front rank of Clinton county's business men of a past generation, simple justice is done to a biographical fact, universally recognized throughout this section of the state by those at all familiar with his history. A man of rare soundness of judgment, wise discretion and business ability of a high order, he managed, with tactful success, important enterprises, and so impressed his individuality upon the community as to recognition among its leading citizens and public-spirited men of affairs. What of the man and what of his work? This is the dual query which represents the interrogation at least nominally entertained whenever that discriminating factor, the public, would pronounce on the true worth of the individual. The career of Mr. Hillis indicates the clear-cut, sane and distinct character, and in reviewing the same from an unbiased and unprejudiced standpoint, interpretation follows fact in a straight line of derivation. In this publication it is consistent that such a review be entered, and that without the adulation of ornate phrases. The city of Frankfort naturally takes pride in the work performed by Mr. Hillis, who stamped the mark of definite acomplishment on the highest plane of industrial activity, and consistently demands that he be given due relative precedence in a work which has to do with those who have lived and labored to good purpose in the great commonwealth of Indiana in times that are past, and thence permeated the great industrial and civic life of the nation in which he stood well to the forefront in representative citizenship, even if his career was such as to gain him no more than a state reputation. His history and that of the latter-day progress of Clinton county. is so indissolubly interwoven that they are pretty much one and the same, for he lived to see and take a leading part in the upbuilding of the county and city of his choice, and during the years in which he honored this locality with his residence no man stood higher in public esteem. Joseph E. Hillis, banker, financier and business man, who for more than thirty years, had been a prominent figure in the commercial life of the locality of which this history treats, and had succeeded well in his many and diversified enterprises, his own prosperity adding material advancement to the city and county along many lines of progress, was born near Madison, Jefferson county, Indiana, September 26, 1840. He received limited educational advantages, and he began his business career when quite a young man and at eighteen was a general merchant at Michigantown. His next venture was at Zionsville, where he conducted the same lines of business as at Michigantown success attending him at both places. His marriage to Jennie E. AVERY, a lady of culture and refinement, took place at Zionsville, March 19, 1872, and in the spring of the following year he came to Frankfort and EIwood Avery engaged in the grocery business on quite an extensive scale on the west side of the public square. After disposing of that business Mr. Hillis was one of the organizers of the R. P. Shanklin & Company, wholesale grocery house. He remained in this business until his death. He also assisted in the organization of the Clinton count Bank, and was its president when he died. Its large success and widespread prestige in the financial world of northern Indiana was due for the most part in his perserverance, wise discrimination and sterling honesty in the management of its affairs. He was also interested in many other business ventures in Frankfort, all of which have prospered and increased his earnings and he was rated as one of the city's wealthiest men. He was deserving of a great deal of credit for what he accomplished alone and often in the face of obstacles that would have crushed the man of less heroic mettle, and all this along perfectIy legitimate lines of endeavor. He owned one of the most attractive and modernly appointed homes in the county, which was always regarded by his many friends as a place of old-time hospitality and good cheer. Success came to Joseph E. Hillis is it does not come to everybody, and in the city where he had carved out the greater part of his fortune his was an honored name. Like others who have succeeded, he found that there is no sentiment in business, and while he at all times followed the rules of established ethics in his relations with his fellow men, both in a business and social way, he frequently stepped aside in his career to help others who needed encouragement and advice. And his assistance did not always consist of words. There are many men in Frankfort who can tell how they were started in business by Mr. Hillis and families who can bear testimony to his leniency in their efforts to acquire a place which they could call home. Death came to Mr. Hillis without warning, while at his place of business in the wholesale house mentioned above in Frankfort, on Monday, September 27, 1904. He had been in apparently good health and was attending to business matters up to the very moment when stricken down. Interment was made in beautiful Green Lawn cemetery. Surviving Mr. Hillis is his widow. Their only child, Chalmers H., a young man who seemed to have inherited many of his father's sterling virtues, especially in a business way, died June 14, 1913. A memoir appears elsewhere. Two sisters, Mrs. BUCHANAN and Mrs. O'NEIL, both residing near Madison, Ind., survive our subject, and two, brothers, Frank HILLIS, of Logansport and Paul HILLIS, of Kokomo, Ind. Personally, Mr. Hillis was a gentleman of pleasing and courteous address, his earnestness and candor, diplomacy and kindness never failing to make a deep impression on all with whom he came into contact and he in every way deserved the high esteem in which he was held by all who knew him. Source : Pages 408 - 410. History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ****************** JESSE HINDS, one of Frankfort's most popular citizens, and a representative gentleman of the old school, is an Ohio man, and a descendant of sturdy ancestors who settled at a very early period in Vermont, of which state his parents, Solomon and Mary (WARD) HINDS, were both natives,. Solomon HINDS and wife were married in Rutledge county, Vt., and later emigrated to Muskingum county, Ohio, where Mr. Hinds followed the blacksmith's trade until he removed, in the year 1819, to Clark county, Ind. After settling in Indiana he purchased town property and engaged in various kinds of speculation, which he carried on until 1843, when he became a resident of the county of Jefferson, where his death occurred ten years later; his wife died at the same place in 1866. They were the parents of a large family, thirteen children in all, only two of whom are Iiving; Lovissa, of Mt. Vernon, Ohio; and Jesse, whose name appears at the head of this mention. The following are the names of those deceased: James W., Elizabeth, William, Sarah J., Solomon. Hugh, Rufus, and four that died in infancy. Jesse HINDS was born November 17, 1817, in Licking county, Ohio, and grew to manhood in Clark county, Ind., where his parents moved when he was less than two years of age. He remained on the home place until his eighteenth year, received an education such as was usually imparted by the common schools of that time, and began life upon his own responsiblity as a brick-layer, which, with various other kinds of employment, he followed until 1865. In the meantime he turned his attention to the mercantile business for some years, and dealt very extensively in cooperage material, lumber, etc., in all of which his success was most gratifying, his earnings enabling him to retire from active life in the above year, and devote some time to leisure and travel. In 1892 he was elected justice of the peace in Frankfort, of which city he became a resident in 1874, and has since filled the office in a manner most satisfactory to the public and creditably to himself. Mr. Hinds possesses a well balanced mind, excellent judgment, and by years of contact with all classes of men in business and other capacities. has become the possessor of a vast fund of practical knowledge, which makes him one of the best informed and most intelligent men of the city where he resides. His political views are in harmony with the republican party, and he stands high in Masonic circles, having been an active member of that order for a number of years. Mr. Hinds was first married in 1843, in Zanesville, Ohio, to Johanna COPE, a native of New York, who died in the year 1883. She bore the following children: Robert M., a contractor and builder of Noblesville, Ind.; Frank K., a builder of Frankfort ; Sibley, wife of H. H. FREEDLY, of Indianapolis, and Jesse, wife of James McNICLE. In the year 1888, Mr. HINDS was united in marriage to Mrs. Harriet L. FETTER, who was born in March, 183O, in the city of Frankfort, the daughter of John PENCE, and the widow of the late Peter FETTER. Mr. and Mrs. Hinds. are members of the Methodist church. Source: Pages 723 - 724. A Portrait And Biographical Record of Boone and Clinton Counties, Ind., ... Containing Biographical Sketches of Many Prominent and Representative Citizens, Together with Biographies and Portraits of all the Presidents of the United States, and Biographies of the Governors of Indiana. Published 1895 by A.W. Bowen & Co. in Chicago. ****************** WILLIAM R. HINES, --- No more conspicuous or highly honored character ever formed a factor in the history of Frankfort or Clinton county than the gentleman whose name introduces this biographical mention. William R. HINES was born in the city of New York, September 4, 1849, and is a son of William and Julia HINES, both parents natives of Ireland. The father came to the United States when about fifteen years of age, and met in the above city Miss Julia REDMOND, who also came from the Emerald isle when young, and they were married in the year 1843. Soon after coming to the new world, Mrs. Hines when about sixteen years old became a member of the family of Gen. Winfield Scott, commander-in-chief of the United States army, as waiting maid to his daughter, which place she retained for three and a half years, and until her marriage to William HINES, the father of our subject, who was a ship carpenter of a packet line between New York and New Orleans, and in 1851 met with an accident. Mr. HINES, shortly after his injury, returned to Ireland, and died there among his friends in the year 1851. Mrs. HINES then made her home in New York. To Mr. and Mr. HINES were born four children, viz: Daniel, killed in a railroad accident while acting as conductor on the Pennsylvania line; Thomas, William R.. and Julia, deceased. Mrs. Hines, after three and one-half years of widowhood, married James HARRIGAN, of Philadelphia, a well-known landscape gardener, who in 1861 enlisted in a New York regiment and lost his life in the service of his adopted country. Mrs. HARRIGAN, in the capacity of nurse, accompanied the company of which her husband was a member, and for one vear devoted her attention to alleviating the sufferings of sick and wounded soldiers. She remained in New York city until 1888, at which time she was brought to Frankfort by her son, the subject of this sketch, and here her last years were spent, surrounded by everything which loving hands could devise for her comfort, and laid to rest in the beautiful Green Lawn cemetery of Frankfort, of which the subject has been president since its organization. William R. HINES, at the tender age of two and one-half years, was placed under the charge of the aid society of New York city, then located on Randall's island, in the East river, near Long Island, and was thus cared for until 1860, at which time, being then ten years of age, he was, with many others as unfortunate as himself, sent westward and found his home at Frankfort, Ind.; where he secured a place with one Adam BLINN, with whom he remained until his majority. Mr. Blinn did well by his young charge and gave him a good education, by means of which Mr. HINES was enabled to secure a license entitling him to teach in the common schools of Clinton county. He followed the teacher's profession during winter seasons about four years, worked at anything to which he could turn his hand during the rest of the year, and at the age of twenty-five became a resident of Frankfort, of which city he was soon afterward elected clerk by the republican party. He discharged the duties of his office very creditably for four years and four months, and in the meantime devoted his leisure to the study of law, with the principles. of which he soon became familiar. He was regularly admitted to the Clinton county bar during his official term, and immediately thereafter engaged in the practice of his profession in partnership with 0. E. BRUMBAUGH, which firm lasted for a period of five years. Mr. HINES's next venture was contracting railroads, and street constructing, and gravel road building, to which he has since devoted the greater part of his attention, and in which his success has been most flattering, the reputation being accorded him at this time as one of the most prominent contractors of the county. Since engaging in this line of work Mr. Hines has been interested in the construction of thirty-two miles of the Clover Leaf railroad in Indiana and Illinois, also ten miles of Iron Mountain system in Arkansas; the Frankfort & Middle Fork gravel road and other contracts in Indiana and other states. He has made over $100,000 worth of street improvements in the city of Frankfort; about $20,000 worth in Alexandria, and $102,000 in Anderson, these last being brick pavement, and at this time he is engaged in constructing the sanitary sewerage system at Indianapolis, which works represents a capital of some $90,000. He also has on hand a number of other contracts in different places, both of a public and private nature, and keeps in daily communication with the leading cities of the country, in which such improvements are likely to be needed. In 1884, in partnership with John L. YOUNG, Esq., Mr. HINES opened a real estate, abstract and probate office in Frankfort, a business which proved financially remunerative, and which is still continued, the business being very extensive, and not confined to the limits of Clinton county alone, but extends to other parts of the state as well. In the growth and development of Frankfort Mr. Hines has ever been prominently identified, and the city has no more energetic and public-spirited citizen than he. He is connected with the Frankfort Improvement company, of which he has been a director since its organization. Politically, Mr. Hines wields an influence for the republican party, with which he has been connected ever since attaining his majority. He was the last nominee of the republican party for prosecuting attorney of the counties of Boone and Clinton while they yet comprised the Twenty-second judicial circuit, and was defeated with the remainder of the ticket. The following winter, when Clinton county was made a separate circuit by the legislature, he was appointed by Governor PORTER prosecutor of Clinton county, being the first to hold that office. He was a candidate for elector in the Ninth congressional district in 1892, but failed to secure the honor. In all business and professional relations, Mr. Hines has ever been actuated by motives of the highest Integrity, and by strictly honorable methods he has met with success such as few attain in a much longer life. Financially, he is quoted as among the most substantial and reliable men of Clinton county; his accumulations of real estate and other property going far up in the thousands in value. His business has frequently called him to many and remote parts of the United States, having made six trips to New York city, and at one time he went to California, and also spent nearly a year in the state of Kansas. Fraternally, Mr. Hines is a prominent member of the Masonic order, in which he has taken a number of degrees, including that of Sir Knight. He accompanied his commandery to Washington city in 1889, to Denver, Colo., in 1892, and his activity in behalf of the fraternity has brought him into favorable notice throughout the state of Indiana. The Presbyterian church, of which he has been an earnest member for some years, represents his religious creed, and at this time he holds the office of deacon in the congregation worshipping in Frankfort. Mr. HINES was happily married in Clinton county on the 4th day of September, 1877, to Miss Eliza JENKINS, the accomplished daughter of William and Clara (PAULEY) JENKINS, a union blessed with the birth of three children, viz: Lilah L., Frank J. and Harry. Mrs. HINES was born June 24, 1854, in the county of Clinton, and is one of the popular ladies of Frankfort. In his various relations of domestic, civil and professional life, Mr. HINES's actions have been characterized by the same intelligence and cordiality which have deservedly gained for him a high position in the regard of the community, and measured by the usual standard his life has indeed been a most gratifying success. He is a true type of the polished gentleman, and his career affords a striking example of what a young and friendless boy, without means and surrounded by obstacles very discouraging in their nature, can accomplish when endowed with the proper powers of mind and heart and actuated by pure and excellent motives. Source: Pages 724 - 728. A Portrait And Biographical Record of Boone and Clinton Counties, Ind., ... Containing Biographical Sketches of Many Prominent and Representative Citizens, Together with Biographies and Portraits of all the Presidents of the United States, and Biographies of the Governors of Indiana. Published 1895 by A.W. Bowen & Co. in Chicago. ****************** HOLLOWAY, Jefferson Parker Jefferson Parker Holloway, owner of Pleasant View Farm, consisting of two hundred and eighty acres in section 10, of Perry township, Clinton county, was born in Boone county, Indiana, October 8, 1850. He is a son of Thomas HOLLOWAY, a native of Montgomery county, this state. The family is of English ancestry, and have been in America for many generations, proving to be excellent and loyal citizens all the while. Thomas Holloway grew to manhood on the home farm, and, being a pioneer child, found plenty of hard work to do when a boy in the development of the farm from the wilds. He received a meager education in the old-time schools. In early manhood he married Sally M. TRUITT, a daughter of Anderson TRUITT, of English descent and an early settler in this part of Indiana, where he secured government land, the patent for the same being signed by Andrew Jackson. One hundred and twenty acres of this land is now owned by the subject of this sketch, constituting his home place. Anderson TRUITT reared a large family, one son, Parker TRUITT, is a prosperous farmer and well known citizen of this county. The mother of our subject died on the home farm at the early age of thirty-two years, leaving five children: Enoch, a soldier in the Civil war and now living in Minnesota; Jefferson Parker, of this review; John T., I. N. and Mahala. The father of these children was a soldier in the One Hundredth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Company G, and saw considerable hard service. He was with General Sherman on his march to the sea through Georgia. He was shot in the mouth and lost seven teeth and part of the jaw. He died at Danville, Illinois, at the age of seventy-two years. He was a member of the Methodist church. Jefferson P. HOLLOWAY spent his boyhood on the farm and there learned the various phases of general agricultural pursuits. He had little opportunity to attend school, but remaining a student all his life, he is a well educated man. In 1870, when twenty years of age Mr. HOLLOWAY married Mary E. DUKES, a woman of fine attributes of head and heart, who has proven to be an excellent helpmeet. She was born January 12, 1853, and is a daughter of William S. DUKES, born in Ohio, from which state he came to Indiana and lived in Boone county for many years. He was born in 1825 and died in 1892 at the age of sixty-seven years. He was a leading farmer and extensive stock shipper of his community, a man highly respected by all. He was a member of the Methodist church and a trustee of the same for some time. The death of the mother occurred in 1912 at the advanced age of eighty-three years. She had remarried, her second husband being U. C. McKENZIE, now deceased. Our subject began life for himself by renting land. Managing well he soon was enabled to purchase a farm of his own and each succeeding year has found him further advanced. He first purchased forty-five acres, then purchased the Truitt estate of one hundred and twenty acres, later adding to his holdings until he now has two hundred and eighty acres as stated above, constituting one of the most desirable and productive farms in the county, on' which he carries on general farming and stock raising, reaping large annual rewards for his outlay of labor and good management. He has an attractive rural home in the midst of pleasant surroundings, and his outbuildings are large and convenient, everything about his place denoting thrift and prosperity. He always keeps an excellent grade of live stock, preparing large numbers for the market from time to time. His place is located three miles east of Colfax. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Holloway: Dr. William A., a graduate of Bellevue Medical College, New York City, and post graduate of the Polyclinic Institute of that city, now one of the leading physicians of Logansport, Ind.; Thomas C., educated in the State university at Bloomington, Ind., a successful farmer and stock man of Clinton county, owns a fine farm of one hundred acres, married, has two sons; Asher E., a graduate of electric engineering, from Purdue University, Lafayette, Ind., now married and living at San Diego, Cal. Fraternally, Mr. Holloway is a member of the Masonic Order at Colfax. Politically, he is a staunch Republican and has long been active in the interest of his party, and regarded as a local leader. He was elected to the state legislature as representative from this county in 1907. He made a notable fight regard to the county license question and the liquor law. Personally, Mr. Holloway is a man of fine presence, one whom it is a pleasure to meet. He is cordial, gentlemanly, obliging and a man of exemplary habits. Both he and his wife are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal church at CoIfax, and they stand high in all circles in which they moved. Source : Pages 446 - 448. History of Clinton County, Indiana.... With Historical Sketches of Representative Citizens and Genealogical Records of Many of the Old Families. By Hon. Joseph Claybaugh. Published 1913 by A. W. Bowen & Company - Indianapolis, Indiana ********************************************************************* ** (c) Connie Rushing and Tonya Martin 1998 - 2001