Clinton County, Indiana Biographies Contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by Connie Rushing 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 ********************************************************************* ** IRWIN, Robert S. JACOBY, Nathan T. JOHNSON, Albert T. JOHNSON, Elisha JONES, Uriah KERN, Bert KESTERSON, William H. KRAMER, William B. , Sr. KUHNS, Peter J. KUHNS, Phaon I. C. LAMBERT, M. D. LANE, Ralph O. LOVELESS, David C. LYNCH, James A. G. ********************************************************************* ** ROBERT S. IRWIN, now living in retirement in Frankfort, Ind., was born Ross county, Ohio, January 14, 1818, a son of Samuel and Esther (DEAN) IRWIN, of whom further details are given later on. Samuel IRWIN was born in Maryland January 1, 1782, and was but two years of age when taken to Kentucky, but a few years later to Ohio. He there grew to maturity and was married in Ross county to Esther DEAN who bore fourteen children, viz: Catherine, Abigail, Jessup, Mesner, Gustin, Jared, William, Samuel K., John, Robert S., Price, Asa, Nancy J. and James L., all born Ross county, Ohio. In 1829 the parents of Robert S Irwin came to Indiana and settled in Montgomery county where the father died August 18, 1834, in the Presbyterian faith --- the mother surviving until January 27, 1865. Robert S. Irwin was reared to manhood in Montgomery, county. Ind., and there made his home until he reached his majority; he then attended school in Jefferson county, and taught for three years Tippecanoe and Clinton counties and elsewhere; In 1843 he rented a farm in Clinton county, on which he resided as a tenant for six years, and then.1850, he bought a farm of eighty acres, under a good state of cultivation, in Twelve Mile Prairie, on which he lived until 1892, when he came to the city to live, on account of the great convenience of natural gas, although he is yet the owner of 240 acres of excellent land. The marriage of Mr. Irwin was solemnized in Clinton county, Ind., September 24, I 840, with Miss Rebecca GRAY, who was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, a daughter of John and Sarah (DOUGLASS) GRAY. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Irwin was blessed with the following children: Sarah M., wife of J. Boyd, a farmer of Clinton county; John S., deceased; Isaac, of Kirklin; Simon of Clinton county; Rebecca, deceased; Jane, wife of J. E. Ball, a merchant; and Robert W., an attorney. The mother of these children died December 5, 1855. a member of the Presbyterian church and greatly mourned by all who knew her. In 1856 Mr. Irwin was remarried, choosing for his second help-meet (sic) Elizabeth M. SMILEY, who became the therof the following children, viz: Mary, wife of James Waite; Elizabeth,deceased; Rosa, wife of J. GENTRY; William, deceased; and Clara B., wife of Charles WARD, of Frankfort. Mrs. Elizabeth M. Irwin, also, was called away from earth, dying April 13, 1878. Robert S. Irwin is a republican, politically, and has served as township trustee two terms and as justice, of the peace four years, and has been a farmer since 1843. Robert W. Irwin, son of Robert S. and Rebecca (GRAY) IRWIN, was born November I5, 1853, and reared to manhood in Jackson township, Clinton county, Ind., and aided his father on the farm until1872, when he entered the Wabash college, where he studied three years, and then engaged in farming three years; he was next employed in traveling through Indiana for Whitely, Foster & Kelly, of Springfield, Ohio, five years, and then engaged in the manufacture of ax and pick handles for three years in Frankfort. March 5, 1890, he commenced reading law with ex-Senator Kent, was admitted to the bar in December, 1890 and has been a partner with his former preceptor since January, 1892. The nuptials of Mr. Irwin were celebrated in Jackson township, Clinton county, September 7, 1876, with Miss Marietta Berry, who was born in Preble county, Ohio, July 29, 1854 --- a daughter of James and Louisa BERRY -- and this union has been blessed with one child, named Vernie S. Mr and Mrs. Irwin are members of the Presbyterian church, and are prominent members of society. Source: Pages 785 - 786. 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. *************** JACOBY, Nathan T. In the history of Clinton county, as applying to the agricultural interests, the name of Nathan T. Jacoby occupies a conspicuous place, for through the number of years he lived he was one of the representative farmers of the community, progressive, enterprising and persevering. Such qualities always win success, sooner or later, and to Mr. Jacoby they brought a satisfactory reward for his well directed efforts, and while he benefited himself and the community in a material way, he has also been an influential factor in the educational, political and moral uplift of the county in which he resided. Nathan T. Jacoby was born December 26, 1843 in Clinton county, being the son of Peter and Mary (PETERS) JACOBY, natives of Pennsylvania, who traveled overland to Clinton county in the early days, and entered land from the government around Mulberry. At one time they possessed seventeen hundred acres of ground. The parents lived in their covered wagons until they had built a home of logs in which to live, and in the night, to keep off the wolves and other prowling animals, they built a circle of fires around the wagons. Our subject was one of ten children, all of whom are dead with the exception of John Jacoby and Thomas Jacoby, both retired farmers of this county. Our subject passed away from this life on October 16, 1910. Nathan Jacoby attended the common schools in his youth and eagerly learned everything their limited resources could offer, then he attended college at Battle Ground, just north of Lafayette, in Tippecanoe county, then, during the winter months, he taught school and in the summer spent his time in farming. Until his retirement, in 1887, he remained actively in the agricultural business, then he built himself a beautiful home in the city of Frankfort and moved there with his wife. She still resides there. Mr. Jacoby continued to keep his farms under the care of competent managers and did so until his death. He owned two farms about two miles from town, one being of one hundred and thirty-two acres and the other of ninety-eight. Corn and wheat were grown extensively on these lands, and their productiveness rivaled the best that Clinton county had. Mr. Jacoby also dealt in the cattle business and made quite a success of his efforts along that line. Mr. Jacoby was well known throughout the county on account of his reliable and honest methods, and he was called upon more times than twenty times to settle up various estates. He never cared for public office, although he was a stanch Republican, but he was always ready to assist any enterprise that meant good for his community. He was also a great lover of his home, and after his daughter's marriage was planning to take a trip with his wife and see the world, but the death of his daughter interrupted for all time their fond plans. In 1866 Mr. Jacoby was married to Margaret C. GOBLE, the daughter of Israel and Elizabeth (MAJOR) GOBLE. The parents were natives of Virginia, the father was a mason by trade. They came to Clinton county in an early day and experienced the same hardships that were undergone by Mr. Jacoby's parents. Mrs. Jacoby was one of nine children, all of whom are dead with the exception of herself and one brother, McAllen Goble, a retired farmer living in Lafayette. She had two brothers, Thomas and David who served through the Civil war as privates in Company D, Fifteenth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. One child. Della, was born to Mr. and Jacoby. She was married to William J. Brown, of Rossville, a farmers but died two years afterward, leaving one son, Ward B. BROWN, who was born on January 16, 1880. He is a graduate of the Frankfort high school and of Purdue University with the class of 1912. He is now proprietor of the Coulter House. He married Pauline SHARICK, daughter of J. W. and Minnie (REEP) SHARICK, of Ohio, on June 4, 19I3. He is one of the most enterprising of the voting business men of Frankfort, and he is sincerely liked by all of his many friends. Mr. Brown is a member of the Presbyterian church and of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and Masonic orders and Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He is a Republican in politics. He lives in Center township, Clinton county, where he owns and operates a farm of one hundred and thirty-two acres. His father is still living at Rossville, Indiana, where he is engaged in extensive agriculture and cattle business. Nathan Jacoby was affiliated with no lodges, but was a member of the Presbyterian church. Source: Pages 701 - 703. 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 ************** JOHNSON, Albert T. In writing the biographies of a county it is a pleasure to discover a subject who has spent his entire life in the county of his birth. Such a fact is a sure recommendation for the progressiveness and prosperity of the community. It augers well for the subject also, for it reveals a long-sightedness seldom found. The youth is invariably seized with the wanderlust at some time, and many men seek other fields of endeavor before they have matured enough to realize that it is best to utilize the home county as a place to live and thereby have the advantages of friends, history, and reputation with which to start life. Of course, there are exceptions. Mr. Johnson has made a splendid success of life because he has placed his faith in the county of his birth, seeing there as great opportunities as any place in the country: the fertile soil and high commercial standards of Clinton county have been benefited by his presence in many ways, and not a little of the richness of the territory can be attributed to his untiring efforts toward the betterment of his home and friends. Mr. Johnson is a strong type of the Hoosier farmer --- kind, sympathetic and genial, and yet with a certain sternness which is the defeat of those with dishonest intent and deceitful purpose. Albert T. Johnson was born on July 22, 1867 in Forest township, Clinton county, and was the son of Robert C. and Elizabeth (DENNIS) JOHNSON. Robert C. Johnson was born in the state of Virginia and came to Indiana when but a boy, locating first in Henry county, and later here. His early education was meager, as the schools then did not present the advantages of the modern ones. He learned the agricultural science, however, and remained with that vocation all of his life. Before the war he was a Whig, but not believing in the principles of the party as they changed, he cast his support to the Republicans. By his first wife, Elizabeth DENNIS, Mr. Johnson had six children, namely: Eliza, Lindley, Williaim, Ellen, AIbert T., and Barclay. He was married the second time to Abigail WHITE, and had one child, Oliver T. Johnson, farmer, of Adams county. Our subject's education was divided between the common schools of Forest township, this county, and Howard county. On February 22, 1880, he was married to Ellen Venneman, who was born in Warren township, this county, in February, 1874, the daughter of Cornelius and Lorena (MORGAN) VENEMAN, both of whom are deceased. Mrs. Johnson received a common school education. To Mr. and Mrs. Johnson there have been born nine children, five boys and four girls, namely: Lottie, Dessie, Laben, Raymond, Glenn, Dwight, Effie, Ancle and Ottle. Mr. Johnson has been a farmer all of his life, and has been exceedingly successful in the pursuit of the same. He owns one hundred and twenty acres in Clinton county, and sixteen acres in Howard county, and all is tillable with the exception of seven acres. The land is well tiled and fenced, and Mr. Johnson has built thereon a comfortable and pretty home and modern farm buildings. Besides general farming Mr. Johnson raises Durham and Shorthorn cattle, a general breed of hogs, and general purpose horses. Religiously, he is a member of the Friend's church. In political affairs, he has always supported the Republican party, believing that its basic principles are the best for the country's prosperity. Source: Pages 683 - 684. 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 ************** JOHNSON, Elisha Among those who have gained worthy prestige in the agricultural and business circles of Clinton county and have proved themselves loyal and patriotic citizens, is Elisha Johnson. This man is a fine specimen of the hardy pioneer. He found this county a wilderness and now sees it in full blossom. He belongs to that noble band of settlers now fast disappearing, and to whom we owe so much; they are rapidly crossing to the other shore, but their good works remain. All about us we hear the falling of the trees of the primeval forest and with them are passing their living prototypes, the grand old men and women who grew up with them. The children of the rising generation can never appreciate truly the lives of these old people and the flowers they place upon their graves soon fade, but they should be taught the principles which ruled the lives of these sacred dead that they too may live to be happy and useful men and women. Elisha Johnson was born in Stark county, Ohio, January 15, 1828, being the son of Exum and Alice (PINICK) JOHNSON, the father a native of Virginia, and the mother from Ohio, both Ouakers in religion, and farmers by occupation. Both parents died in the state of Ohio. Our subject was one of nine children, two others of whom are living; James Johnson, a farmer of Denver, Colorado, and Charles Johnson, a shoe merchant of Hobart, Indiana. Elisha Johnson received a common school education and worked on the farm until the year 1854, when he removed to Howard county, Indiana, arriving there just after the departure of the last Indian across its borders. At this place, in company with his brother, Elijah, he opened up the first saw mill, using the first engine built in Indianapolis by Sinker, the castings being made for it at Madison, Indiana. After his brother's death, Elisha's son was associated with him in the milling trade until the father's retirement in 1903. In 1873 Elisha Johnson moved his mill to Clinton county, later moved to Illinois and then again back here after disposing of his business. Mr. Johnson had the contract and built the first school house and Masonic hall at Russiaville. In that day the presence of liquor in the town of Russiaville was quite a disturbing element. Laws were useless because everyone drank, many to excess, and nobody attempted to stop the traffic. Inevitable, a company of reformers sprang up, and Mr. Johnson was one of the leaders. He hated the sight of intoxicants, and believed that a man once addicted to the drink habit was not beyond help, so he used his every effort to reformation, some of his charges becoming afterwards the best citizens of the town. . Mr. Johnson was married on November 21, 1856, to Sarah E. Hart, of Highland county, Ohio, the daughter of William and Beulah (NORDYKE) HART, natives of Clinton county, Ohio, and farmers all of their lives. She was one of nine children, one other of whom is living, Mrs. Nancy PROCTOR, of Russiaville, Indiana. Mr. Johnson's wife is a member of the Methodist church. Two children were born to our subject and wife: Arthur, who lives in Terre Haute, and has one boy, Omer, in school; and Mrs. Anna PIPPER, of Sunnyvale, California, wife of a fruit grower. Religiously, Mr. Johnson is a Methodist, although he was born of a Quaker family and taught their faith. He is a member of the Masonic order, and politically has always been a Republican. Mr. Johnson owns his own home in Frankfort, and is well liked by the people of the city wherein he is spending the evening of his worthy life. His wife is still the same dutiful and faithful helpmeet of days past, and their companionship now, in the calm, after the storm of life, is beautiful and sacred beyond the power of mere words to paint. They stand as a monument for the younger generation to emulate in this prosaic century. Source: Pages 694 - 695 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 ************** JONES, Uriah Those who are content to lead the much-spoken of "simple life" are, no doubt, happier than any other class. The reasons are too obvious to need much setting forth here. Such people know little of the jar and fret, the contention and strife, the petty jealousies for place and power of those, who choose the great marts of the land for their dwelling places, the latter never really knowing what the word "freedom" means in its broad and literal sense, in fact, they are bound in a kind of slavery that wears the better nature to shreds, then all sorts of unpleasant things follow from which it is hardly possible to flee. Uriah Jones, a plan farmer of Warren township, Clinton county, is a happy man because he has been wise enough to lead the "simple life" next to nature, away from the "harsh, jangled roar" of the city, and he is therefore in his autumn not only contented but healthy, finding plenty to still live for and to do. He was born July 25, 1843, in Dearborn county, Indiana, and he was five years old when he moved to Clinton county with his parents, Thomas and Anna K. (KILE) JONES. Thomas Jones was born in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, in June, 1805, and his death occurred on September 16, 1869. The mother of our subject was born in Strassburg, Germany and her death occurred at the age of seventy-eight years. She came to America when young and met and married Thomas Jones in Pennsylvania, the date of their wedding being January 10, 1822. The mother was educated in Germany, and was a bright woman, speaking several languages. Thomas Jones devoted his life to general farming. Politically, he was a Democrat. His large family of sixteen children are now all deceased but Uriah, of this sketch. Uriah Jones grew to manhood on the home farm and there he worked until reaching rnan's estate. He received a limited education in an old-time log school house, but has since become a well-informed man on general topics through home reading. On August 4, 1870, he married Charlotte Stoddard, who was born in Frankfort, Ind., December 29, 1852. She is a daughter of Abram and Catherine (BYERS) STODDARD. These parents were born in Pennsylvania and there grew up and were married, and from there they came to Clinton county, and located in Frankfort, where Mr. Stoddard established a tailor shop, he having been the first tailor there. To Mr. Jones and wife six children were born, namely: Albert, born May 12, 1872; William B., born April 5 1874; Franklin Pierce, born August 8, 1876; Martin V., born January 12, 1878; Milton Carrol, born April 25, 1882, and Freddie Grover, born September 12, 1884. Mr. Jones has followed farming all his life. He owns eighty acres in Warren township, most of which is under cultivation. He built his own home and made good improvements and is very comfortably fixed. He keeps Jersey cows and Chester White hogs. Politically, he is a Democrat, and in religious matters belongs to the Presbyterian church. Source: Pages 639 - 640. 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 ************** KERN, Bert The life history of the subject of this sketch si such as to warrant praise and commendation. By honest dealings and happy co-operation with his fellow men Mr. Kern has guaranteed a comfortable living to himself the rest of his days on earth. The man is indeed fortunate who has done so. Besides his interest in agriculture, Mr. Kern has been versatile enough to make a success of other vocations, at present being connected with one of the largest interurban systems in the United States. Bert Kern was born in Jackson township, Clinton county, on December 28, 1867, and was the son of A. D. and Sarah (YOUNG) KERN. The father was born in the year 1840 in Boone county and lives in Clinton county with our subject. During his life he was a farmer and breeder of shorthorn cattle. He still is active in the interests of the farm. The mother was born in Clinton county in 1843, and she passed from this life on February 18, 1910. Both parents had a common school education. Four children were born to them: Edward (deceased), D. S., Bert and Charles. Bert Kern received a common school education nad (sic) made his early start on the farm. Until 1903 agriculture was the field of his endeavors, and then he went to work for the Indiana Traction Railway, holding the position of sub-station operator. He was later promoted to sub-station foreman, and as such he still is making good. He owns twenty-six acres of fertile and well tiled land here in this county, and besides general farming thereon he is raising Chester White hogs. The home on the estate was built by our subject. On October 27, 1888, he was married to Minnie B. Davidson, who was born December 12, 1870, the daughter of William and Lucinda (PRICE) DAVIDSON. One child has been born to them, Alta B., born January 3, 1890. She married Carl HUTCHINSON, and they live near our subject. Religiously, Mr. Kern is a member of the Christian church, and in political affairs is a Democrat. Although he has never run for office he takes as much part in political activities as his other duties, which he considers paramount, will allow. Source: Pages 554 - 555 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 ************** KESTERSON, William H. One of Clinton county's most substantial and highly respected farmers is William H. KESTERSON, now living retired at his picturesque home in Jefferson township, after a long life of close work and excellent management on the farm, his place there being one of the choice and valuable farms of that section of the county. His residence of a score of years, here has been such as to bring to him the good will and esteem of his neighbors, for be has not only been industrious but public spirited and honorable in his dealings with his fellow men. His record in Tippecanoe county, where he lived for some time, is equally good. Prior to that he lived in Hamilton county, where he was born on January 7, 1846, but left there when a boy for Tippecanoe county, where he remained until about twenty years ago. He also lived in Iowa a few years when a boy, also in Illinois. Mr. Kesterson is a son of Thomas and Susan (NORWOOD) KESTERSON. The father was a native of Tennessee, from which state he came to Hamilton county, Indiana, when a voting man and there married. The mother of our subject was born in Hamilton county, this state. These parents spent their lives on a farm, and were honest, hard working people. Six children were born to them, four of whom are still living. Thomas Kesterson was twice married. His children were named Mary E., who is now deceased; Spicy M., George, William H., our subject; Lousina (deceased), and Delphina. William H. Kesterson grew to manhood on the borne farm and he received a good common school education, mostly in Tippecanoe county and partly in Iowa, where he lived for four years. At Lafayette, in the fall of 1864, he enlisted as a recruit in the Seventy-second Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Company E. mounted infantry, under Captain Mahon, and although he saw considerable service he was in no very important engagements. He was with the troops in Alabama and Georgia, going as far as the city of Macon. Mr. Kesterson was married on November 12, 1858, to Lillian DOUGLAS, who was born on October 9, 1858, in Clinton county, Indiana. She is a daughter of Morland and Jane (CRAIG) DOUGLAS, both natives of Ireland, where they spent their earlier years, emigrating to America in an early day and here became well established through their industry. Mrs. Kesterson grew to womanhood in Clinton county and here received a common school education. Seven children have been born to our subject and wife, namely: Thomas, born November 23, 1869: Van, born January 31, 1871, (deceased); Anna J., born June 27, 1872; Frank, born December 1, 1874, Mattie, born March 6, 1878; George S., born February 6, 1880; Herman, born March 28, 1882. Mr. Kesterson began farming when a young man and made this his life work. He owned a finely improved and productive place of three hnudred (sic) and twenty-four acres, all tillable but about twenty acres, which is in timber. It is well tiled and otherwise well improved and is one of the best farms of Jackson township. He carried on general farming on a large scale, and is still engaged somewhat in stock raising, formerly specializing in shorthorn cattle, and now he makes a specialty of Red Poll cows, Jersey hogs, Shire and Clydesdale horses. He understands well the handling of all kinds of live stock and no small part of his competency has been obtained in this manner. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, is a Progressive in politics, leaning to the Republican party, however Religiously, he belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church. Our subject's son, George S. Kesterson, enlisted for service in the Spanish-American war on September 18, 1899, at Frankfort in Company A, Thirty-eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, under Captain William H. Collier. He was sent to St. Louis, where the company remained until October 20th of that year, then went by rail to San Francisco, leaving that city in November on a transport to Philippine Islands, by way of Honolulu, landing in the city of Manila in December, 1899. From there the company was sent to Datangus, where it did guard duty, having a few skirmishes and remaining there until 1900. Then they were sent to Iloili remaining there until 1901 on guard duty, and having several skirmishes. These troops were then ordered to San Francisco and were mustered out on June 30, 1901, in that city. Young Kesterson's experiences abroad were of much value to him and he talks interestingly of them. Source: Pages 558 - 560 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 ************** KRAMER, William B. , Sr. The following is a brief sketch of a man who, by assiduous attention to his business affairs, has achieved success among his fellows and has risen to an honorable position in the city where his interests are located. His record is plain, unadorned by strange or unusual incident, or dramatic episode, but is one of his accomplishments. William B. Kramer is one of those estimable characters whose honestly and personality force them into notoriety of estimable form, which their modesty does not court, but which their good nature does not resent. Mr. Kramer occupies an enviable position in Frankfort, by reason of his character and his material interest in the affairs of his townsmen. Mr. Kramer was born in Frederick county, Maryland, January 31, 1836, the son of Frederick William and Margaret (SCHOBL) KRAMER. Frederick Kramer was a native of Maryland, and descended from good German stock, his father having come to this country in 1769 front Berlin, Prussia. He served valiantly in the Revolutionary war under General George Washington and left service at Valley Forge on account of frozen feet. He died in Frederick's county, Maryland. Frederick Kramer was the father of thirteen children, a typical pioneer family. These were: Sarah (deceased), Elizabeth (deceased), John A. (deceased), William B., Daniel (deceased), Anna M. (deceased), Phillip E. (deceased), James T. (deceased), Franklin B. (deceased), Mary C., Alice C., Lewis N., and Virginia. William Kramer was educated in the common schools of Maryland, and after leaving them, took up farming, which occupation he followed until the year of 1873, when he moved to Clinton county. Here he went into the planing mill and lumber business as a member of the firm known as Kramer Bros., and in 1903 this firm was incorporated with William Kramer at the head of the enterprise. It is now known as "Kramer Bros. Co.," and continues to do a thriving business. In 1860, Mr. Kramer married Elizabeth Trundle, the daughter of John C. and Elizabeth (HAYS) TRUNDLE. Her parents were natives of Maryland, Frederick county, spending their entire lives in this state. Six children, John F., Samuel B., William B., Nellie, Rowland and Bertha Leuelle, have been born of this union. Mr. Kramer was forced to suffer the loss of his wife in death in the year 1909. So far Mr. Kramer has not held any political or public offices, but contributes his services to the Democratic party. Mr. Kramer is a member of the A. F. & A. M. and the Knights Templar. At one time he was a member of the state grand lodge of the latter order. Source: Pages 716 & 717. 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 ************** KUHNS, Peter J. The Kuhns family has long been noted for its thrift courage and no better farmers are to be found in Clinton county, for they believe in doing well whatever they undertake, so we will find their fields clean of weeds, sprouts and unnecessary trees, the same fields being well fenced, well tiled and in every way strictly up-to-date, also their farming machinery is properly kept, housed in good shelters, and their barns keep out the cold and rain from their stock in winter. Their homes are models for cleanliness and wholesomeness. Among the best known of the present generation of this highly respected family is Peter J. Kuhns, of Ross township. He was born on the old Kuhns homestead in the above named township and county, May 9, 1861, at the beginning of the fierce struggle between the North and South in the greatest civil war of history. He is a son of Samuel and Susan (RUCH) KUHNS, a complete sketch of whom appears on another page of this volume. Peter J. Kuhns was reared on the home farm and educated in the rural schools, and he remained at home until he was twenty-one years of age. He worked for his father and others at farm work, saved his money and thereby got a start in life and was finally able to purchase the excellent farm of one hundred and forty acres in Ross township where he now lives. He has brought it up to a high state of improvement and cultivation. He remodeled the house, now having a conveniently arranged ten-roomed dwelling, as well as a good barn and other outbuildings. He carries on general farming and stock raising successfully. Mr. Kuhns was married in 1890 to Martha J. Michael, a daughter of Jacob MICHAEL, a native of Virginia and a soldier in the Civil war, having cast his fortunes with the Confederate army. His wife was Louise (GRANGER) MICHAEL, a native of Germany. They are both deceased. The father devoted his life to farming. Politically he was a Democrat, and he belonged to the Lutheran church. His family consisted of three children, namely: George, Harrison and Martha Two sons and five daughters have been born to Peter J. Kuhns and wife: Mabel G., Lena Irene and Hazel L., all graduates of the high school at Rossville; Russell S. now a student in the high school; Lucile also attending the high school at Rossville; Frederick J. and Thelma G. Mr. Kuhns is a Republican in politics. He and his family are all Lutherans and are workers in the church and Sunday school. Source: Pages 866 - 867 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 ************** KUHNS, Phaon Clinton county, Indiana owes a debt of gratitude to the old Keystone state which it can never repay, for in going over the personal biographies of the residents of the county we note that the majority of our early settlers have come from Pennsylvania, many of them of the thrifty Dutch and German strains. It is useless to comment upon the industry, frugality and steady habits of these peoples, for such characteristics are well know to all. Therefore Clinton county has gained while the good old state "back East" has been the loser. One of the best examples of the above named class is Phaon Kuhns, prosperous farmer of Washington township, a man whom his neighbors will tell you lives by the Golden Rule. He was born in Lehigh county, Penn., October 18, 1840. He is a son of Joseph Kuhns, a farmer, who was also noted for his thrift and honesty. The mother of our subject was known in her maidenhood as Julia LICHTENWALTER, also a native of the above named county and state, and also of an old German family. These parents grew up, married and spent their lives on a farm in Lehigh county. To them twelve children were born. Phaon Kuhns grew to manhood on the home farm where he was taught to work, effectively and systematically, and received his education in the old school house in his neighborhood. During the Civil war, when twenty-three years old he came to Clinton county. Liking the country and having the foresight to know that it would eventually develop into a great agricultural section, he decided to cast his lot permanently in Clinton county. He was married here on September 28, 1868 to Mary ROTHENBERGER, who proved to be a most suitable and helpful companion. They worked hard, economized, planned well and soon had a comfortable home and a good farm. He thinks one-half of his property has been obtained through her assistance. She was born in Tippecanoe county, Ind., and is a daughter of George ROTHENBERGER, who died at the age of seventy years. The mother died at the age of eighty-four years. Eight children were born to them, three sons and five daughters. The father was a trustee in the German Reformed church. After his marriage Mr. Kuhns purchased eighty acres of land which he cleared and improved; then bought fifty acres more which he also cleared and improved, and after that purchased eighty-seven more. His present finely improved farm of two hundred and eighteen acres is one of the most productive and desirable in Washington township and here he carries on general farming and stock raising on an extensive scale, always keeping a good grade of live stock. He has a substantial eight-roomed house, surrounded by an abundance of shade trees. He has a large barn and other good outbuildings and everything in good shape about the place, which lies four miles from Frankfort. Mr. Kuhns has one child, a daughter, Sunia C., now the wife of W. H. GOOD who lives in Ross township. They have three children, Marvin, Ada and Wilner. Another daughter of our subject, Elsie, died when eleven years old. Politically, Mr. Kuhn is a Democrat, however he votes for the best man locally, and has supported Judge Claybaugh, who is a good friend of his. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church. Source: Pages 874 - 876 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 ************** I. C. LAMBERT, M. D. Few residents of Colfax, Clinton county, Indiana, have occupied during the past decade as large a place in the public eye as Dr. I. C. Lambert, and no one has more worthily discharged his manifold duties or shown himself more worthy of the high esteem in which he is universally held. His life has been filled with activity and usefulness while his untiring energy and eminent ability have gained for him a conspicuous and honorable plaec (sic) among the distinguished medical men of his day and generation. In every sphere of endeavor in which he has taken a part socially, politically or professionally, his unpretentious bearing and strict integrity have elevated him in the confidence of his fellow citizens, and his influence, always powerful and salutary, is destined to continue a potential factor for substantial good long after he retires from his labors and ceases from the busy life in the arena in which he has so long been a prominent and effective actor. Dr. Lambert was born in Fayette county, Indiana, February 12, 1857, on a farm. He is a son of James H. Lambert, who was born in the state of Ohio. His father, William C., was born in Virginia. The Lamberts were among the sterling early Colonial families of the Old Dominion. Finally they removed from there to Ohio, and later came on to Indiana. The family is of English origin. James B. LAMBERT, the Doctor's father, married Keziah LEE, a native of Virginia, and daughter of William Lee, who was a grandson of the famous Light Horse Harry Lee, that served as a general under Washington during the Revolutionary war. Mrs. Lambert was a niece of Gen. Robert E. Lee commander-in-chief of the Confederate army. William Lee and General Lee were brothers. The Doctor's father died in middle life. The death of the mother occurred in 1905 at the age of seventy-four years. The father was a Baptist and the mother a Methodist. They were known for their scrupulous honesty, old-time Virginia hospitality and industry. Their family consisted of only two sons, Dr. I. C., of this review, and W. C., who resides in Alberta, Canada, where he is well established and regarded as an influential citizen. Dr. Lambert worked hard on the home farm when a boy, and when only fourteen years of age he chopped, many a day, two cords of wood, and made a regular hand cradling wheat and cutting hay. He received his early education in the public schools of his home community, later attended college. Deciding to enter the medical profession he studied under Dr. Amos Pettijohn, of Arcadia, Indiana. He next entered the Physio-Medical School at Marion, Indiana, where he made a good record, graduating with the class of 1889, with honor to himself and the college. He then entered the Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville, graduating with the class of 1899. He soon thereafter began practicing his profession in Colfax, Indiana, where he has continued to the present time with ever increasing success, now enjoying a large and lucrative practice. He has a modern and well equipped office and a good medical library, and has kept up with medical research work in every way. Dr. LAMBERT was married when twenty-one years of age to Nancy MUNDELL, a lady of many commendable traits of character, and the representative of a highly respected family. Of this union three children have been born: Nora, died when nineteen years of age-, Hattie L., died at the age of fourteen months, and James O., residing in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. The wife and mother was called to her rest in 1883, and in 1886 the Doctor was united in marriage with Jennie SHANNON, a lady of culture, and a descendant of a fine old Kentucky family. Dr. Lambert is a member of the Masonic Order, Knights of Pvthias and the County Medical Association. He is also a member of the Clinton Club. Personally, he is a man of splendid physique, impressive in manners, unassuming and obliging. Source: Pages 884 - 885 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 ************** LANE, Ralph O. It is a great privilege to be able to spend our lives on the old home place. "The roof that heard our earliest cry," as the poet Tennyson wrote, has a charm and fascination for us which we cannot find elsewhere, and no matter where on earth our restless footsteps may wander we ever long to be back beneath the old roof-tree of our parents. However, this is not always the privilege of man. For many reasons, often through necessity, we leave our childhood home and seek our fortune in other countries, and seldom ever revisit the hearthstone around which we played as a child, So those who, like Ralph O. Lane, owner of Maple Lawn Stock Farm, in Perry township, Clinton county, are fortunate enough to spend their lives at their birthplace, are to be envied. No doubt he fully appreciates the privilege, and he has labored hard to keep the old place well tilled and well improved so that it has retained rather than lost its original strength of soil, and the home has been well preserved. Mr. Lane was born in this township and county on October 14, 1871. He is the scion of a prominent old family of this locality. He is a son of Jesse Lane, who was a native of Ohio, and a son of Judge Joseph Lane. The family is of English descent, and the first emigrant settled in Delaware. Later the family removed westward to Ohio, thence on to Indiana. Judge Lane was one of the first settlers in this section of the state. Here he built his log cabin and cleared a place for his crops and he became influential in the early history of the community. The first election in the township was held at his log cabin. He was born in Delaware in the year 1800. He took a leading part in the early development of the county, and was one of the charter members of the Methodist church here. He lived to be seventy-four years of age. His house was a favorite stopping place for the circuit riders who came to this locality to preach at the local Methodist church. The judge was three times married. Jesse Lane, father of our subject, grew up on the old home place, and, being a pioneer boy, found plenty of hard work to do in assisting in developing the farm. He received a meager education in the log cabin schools of his day. In early manhood he married Prudence WHITE, and to them twelve children were born: Alfred, Joseph, died in infancy; Edgar, Ollie (deceased), B. W., Dan H., Mrs. May DUNBAR, Judson, Mrs. Nettie DUNBAR (deceased), Catherine. Ralph O., of this sketch; and Adelia. Mr. Lane married for his second wife Rachael MOREHEAD, and to them was born one daughter, Lottie. Mr. Lane's third wife was Anna BURDEN, who survives her husband. Jesse Lane devoted his life to general farming and stock raising, and was a breeder of fine horses, principally Clydesdales. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and his home was headquarters for the preachers of this denomination when in this locality; in fact, it was a home where the latch string was always on the outside to his many friends. Ralph O. Lane was reared on the old home place and there worked during the crop season when he became of proper age. During the winter months he attended the district schools. When twenty-three years old, he married Icy LACKEY, daughter of Eli Lackey, a pioneer of Clinton county, now deceased. The mother is still living, making her home in Colfax. Mr. Lane owns one hundred and forty acres in section 34, Perry township. Here he carries on general farming and stock raising. Everything about the place denotes thrift and good management. He pays considerable attention to stock raising and no small portion of his income is derived from this source. He has a silo, which holds one hundred tons, and has the largest barn in the township. He keeps registered Percheron stallions and mares and is also a breeder of Poland China hogs. His fine stock is greatly admired by all see it. One child, Blanche, has been born to our subject and wife. She was graduated from the Colfax high school and is taking a four years course in DePauw University. Another child, Olive, died when sixteen months old. Politically, Mr. Lane is a Republican, and fraternally a member of the Knights of Pythias. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Source: Pages 782 - 783 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 ************** LOVELESS, David C. One of the enterprising and public-spirited men of Colfax, Clinton county, who is doing a great deal in fostering the substantial growth of the city is David C. Loveless, who, although a comparatively recent comer, has proven himself in league with all good movements for the betterment of the place. Being a man of exemplary habits and of friendly demeanor he has won a wide circle of friends and is one of the men of the locality of which this history treats, who is deserving of special mention within its pages. Mr. Loveless who is one of the trustees of Colfax, in fact, chairman of the board, was born in Milford, Iroquois county, Illinois, in 1855. He is a son of a farmer, Benjamin Loveless, who was born in Ohio. The mother of our subject, who was known in her maidenhood as Mary J. CRUTCHER, was a native of Illinois, in which state her parents were pioneers, having removed there from Ohio. The parents of our subject are both deceased, the father having died at Frankfort, Ind., at the advanced age of seventy-nine years; the mother passed away when sixty-four years of age. Their family consisted of six children, an equal number of sons and daughters. Politically, the father of the above named children was a Republican, and religiously he belonged to the German Baptist church, as did also the mother. They were noted for their piety and industry. They established a good home and gave their children good advantages in every way. David C. Loveless was reared on the old home farm in the Prairie state and there he worked hard when a boy. He received an education in the common schools of his locality, which has been supplemented by long years of home reading and by actual contact with the business world. He began farming when young in years and continued to engage in general agricultural and stock raising pursuits with continuously gratifying results until five years ago when he removed to Colfax, Ind., where he has a good home, and is enjoying the comforts of life, prepared to spend his declining years in ease. He has been engaged since coming here in the real estate business, and has been very successful, having the many important trades, and he always has listed for sale some of the best properties in Colfax and Clinton and Boone counties. He is an excellent judge of property values, especially farms, and is often consulted regarding good, safe investments in farming and city property. Mr. Loveless was married in Montgomery county, Indiana, on June 1, 1875, to Catherine C. SAIDLEY, a lady who came o f an excellent family and who has been a good helpmate in every way. She was born in Tippecanoe county, Indiana, and was reared and educated there, near Clark's Hill. She is a daughter of John Adam SAIDLEY, who was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, being eleven years of age when he emigrated with his parents to the United States. He devoted his life to agricultural pursuits. His wife was known in her maiden hood as Rebecca J. BOWERS, who was a native of the state of Pennsylvania. The parents of Mrs. Loveless are both now deceased, the (sic) father having attained the ripe old age of eighty-five years. He was a member of the German Baptist church. His family consisted of eight children, five sons and three daughters: Isaac, Joshua, Jesse, William, Frank, Mary, Anna and Catherine C., the latter, the wife of our subject, having been the youngest in order of birth. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Loveless, three sons and four daughters: Rebecca J., married to Mr. HARSHBARGER; Mrs. Viola RAIRDON, Mrs. Sylvia GHEER, Mrs. Sarah ROBINSON, Joseph (twin brother of Sarah), Adam FREDERICK, and Ben C. Our subject and wife have seventeen grand children. They have lived to see their children well settled in life, all good citizens and highly respected wherever they live. Politically, Mr. Loveless is a Republican and is more or less active in public affairs. He is a member of the German Baptist church. Source: Pages 954 - 957. 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 ************** LYNCH, James A. G. In a county such as Clinton, where there are so many men of moral, intellectual, and business character, it is hard to determine who is the most worthy. Success in life, however, does not determine character, nor does strong character always insure monetary success in later years. There are some, though, who have found fortune early in life, and the worry of making a living cast aside, have ample opportunity, to develop the other side of life, the aesthetic, the side which so few people in this world at this day find time to enjoy. At this writing Mr. Lynch has just passed his thirty-first year, but in those years he has made a practical and lasting success, and now has the pleasant thoughts of many years to come in which to enjoy the rewards of his work. James A. G. LYNCH was born April 14, 1882 at Walton, Roane county, West Virginia, and was the son of J. W. and Mary A. (LOONEY) LYNCH. He was one of a large family of children, namely: Harvey W., of Clendenin, W. Va.; Mrs. Permela B. HIVELY, Mrs. Phoebe Jane ROBERTSON, Mrs. Eva Ann DONAHUE, William S., Mrs. Sarah F. CAMP, all of West Virginia; Silvin O., of Maxwell, N. M., and Woodard A. and Emerson E., both deceased. The father of our subject was a farmer all his life, and a Republican, in politics. He died February 12, 1911. The mother is still living at Clendenin, W. Va. Both were Christian Adventists in faith. Mr. LYNCH, our subject, was born and reared on his father's farm in the state of West Virginia, and he remained there until his marriage. After the last mentioned event he went into the grocery business in Clay county, West Virginia, and followed that vocation until the next year, then moved on to his father-in-law's farm in Roane county, West Virginia, and later removed again to his father's farm. His next change was for Clendenin, Kanawha county, West Virginia, where he commenced dealing in horses and oil royalties. Mr. Lynch today has interest in several oil companies, is president of the Kanawha Oil Company, and a stockholder in the Koontz Oil & Gas Company of Virginia. He also retains land of four hundred and fifty acres of oil fields with his brothers and sisters. Mr. Lynch came to Clinton county, this state, in 1911 and built his present beautiful home on West Kyger street, in Frankfort. Politically, he is a Republican. On June 4, 1903, Mr. Lynch was united in marriage with Lucy J. LEWIS, the daughter of Edward and Mary M. LEWIS, of Rockbridge county, West Virginia, a family which settled in Monroe county, that state, in the early days, and where our subject's wife was born. Her parents were extensive farmers, at one time owning a total of seven thousand acres of land. All were Presbyterians by religious faith, and were among the best families of the New England states. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Lynch: Beatrice, born August 16, 1903; James McChesney, born June 1, 1905, and Ivan Paul, born March 22, I907. Mrs. Lynch's brothers and sisters are: Prudence Campbell (deceased); Mrs. Fannie M. Simpson, of Wellsburg, W. Va.; William A., (deceased) James McChesney, of Marietta, O.; John Edward, of Wheeling, W. Va.; and May Good, of Cotton, W.. Va. Source: Pages 688 - 689 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 1998 - 2001