Clinton County IN Archives History .....History Of Clinton County 
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HISTORY OF CLINTON COUNTY.

INTRODUCTION.

    "All history," says Dryden, "is only the precepts of moral philosophy
reduced into example." He also observes, "the laws of history in general are
truth of matter, method and clearness of expression."

   The first property is necessary to keep our understanding from the
impositions of falsehood, for history is an argument framed from many particular
examples, or inductions; if these examples are not true, then those measures of
life which we take from them will he false and deceive us in their consequences.
The second is grounded on the former, for if the method he confused, if the
words or expressions of thought be obscure, then the ideas which we receive must
be imperfect, and if such, we are not taught by them what to elect or what to
shun. Truth is, therefore, required as the foundation of history; disposition
and perspicuity as the manner to inform us plainly.

   In the preparation of the pages which follow, we have labored diligently to
place all on the solid foundation of truth. The casual observer will scarcely
realize how difficult is such an undertaking. The pioneer of Clinton County came
not with note-book and pencil, but with ax, rude farming implement, desiring to
make her fertile lands yield him sustenance. A half century is numbered with the
past since the first white man trod her forests. The majority of those who were
among the first have finished their course and passed to the "Summer Land of
Song." The minds of those yet remaining are dimmed by the mist of years.
Repeatedly have parties said to us, "had I known anything of this kind was to
occur, and made a record of certain events, I could have furnished you with much
valuable information; but being wholly unaware of such an undertaking, my time
being occupied principally in clearing the forests and tilling the soil, much of
interest has been forgotten, and cannot now be recalled with sufficient accuracy
to justify publication." Hence, much that we would gladly have recorded in these
pages is lost. Our aim being to give facts, statements furnished us about which
parties were in doubt have been purposely omitted. Every line, every sentence
herein recorded is on the authority of reliable citizens. Doubtless, on sober
reflection, they will in some instances, in attempting to recall events so many
years past, find they have slightly erred. However, in the main, we believe it
will be found truthful and reliable, and with the deep hope that such may be the
case, we present this brief history to the citizens of Clinton County, feeling
assured that it will grow in interest as one by one our silver-haired pioneers
are laid to rest in the silent tomb.

ORGANIZATION.

   Previous to the year 1830, Clinton and Boone Counties were united under the
name of "Washington Territory," and attached in Tippecanoe County for judicial
purposes. In 1830, the population of Clinton was rapidly increasing, and when
the number had increased to 1,423 souls, they deemed they were justifiable to
representation in the Legislature. Accordingly, they presented a petition to
that body to this effect, which was approved January 25, 1830 and Commissioners
appointed to locate the county seat. The Commissioners were Robert Taylor, of
Montgomery County; Henry Restine, of Tippecanoe; Hugh B. McKeen, of Cass; John
Cane, of Carroll, and Jeremiah Corbely, of Marion. They met at the public house
of Charles I. Hand in Jefferson on the second Monday of May, 1830, and proceeded
at once to view and examine the several places suggested. The principal struggle
was between Jefferson and the land of John Pence. The objection being urged
against the former, that it was not centrally located, her citizens conceived
the idea of alleviating this trouble by attaching to Clinton a small strip along
the eastern border of Tippecanoe.

   A petition was prepared for presentation to the legislature, and Mr. Abner
Baker selected to secure the names of the inhabitants living in said strip in
Tippecanoe. This being in the Spring of the year, all the streams were running
very high, so that Mr. Baker, in attempting to cross Wild Cat, came near losing
his life. But as the securing of the county seat was of much importance, he
pressed vigorously on, and, we are informed, secured the names of every person,
with a single exception, living in the strip it was proposed to attach to
Clinton. The petition, we are told, was placed in the hands of a certain
individual, who from some cause, never presented to the Legislature.

    Mr. John Pence proposed to the Commissioners to donate sixty acres of land
and one hundred dollars in money, if they would locate the county seat on his
farm. In those days this was a very liberal offer, one which the Commissioners
readily accepted, locating the county seat at Frankfort.

   The first election wna held at the house of Mathew Bunnell on the first
Monday of May, 1830, The names of the county officers as elected at that time
will be found on another page of the atlas.

   Immediately after the election, the County Commissioners elect, Joseph Hill,
John Douglass and Mordecai McKinsey, met for the first time at the house of
Matthew Bunnell. Having taken the oath of office, their first official act was
the appointing of Benjamin Abbott, Assessor of Clinton County. The county was
then divided into three road districts under the following Supervisors: Hiram
Harrison, David Kilgore and Robert Miller. They then adopted an official seal,
when they adjourned to meet in Jefferson at the residence of John Ross, May 12,
1830.

    At a meeting held at Ross', Saturday, May 15th, 1830, they proceeded to the
organization of the county proper. All that part of Clinton County embraced in
the following metes and bounds was formed into one township, and known aa
Jackson. Commencing at the northeast corner of Section 19, in Township 23, north
of Range No. 1 west; thence south on said section line to the south boundary of
the county; thence east to the south to the southeast corner of the county;
thence north to the southeast corner of the county;  thence west to the place of
beginning.

   At the same time another township was organized, with the following metes and
bounds, and known as Ross, commencing at the northwest corner of the county;
thence south with the county line to the southwest corner of Section No. 18,
Township 22, north of Range No. 2 west; thence enel tu the southeast corner of
Section No. 18, north of Range No. 1 west; thence north to the northeast corner
of the Section 19, on the county line 1 thence west with the said line to the
place of beginning.

    Also, the same day was organized a township with the following metes and
bounds, and known as Washington, commencing at the northwest corner of Section
No. 19, in Township 22, north of Range No. 2 west; thence south to the southwest
corner of the county; thence east to the half mile on the east side of Section
No. 18, in Township 20, north of Range No. 1 west, on the county line; thence
north to the northeast corner of Section No. 19, in Township No. 22, north of
Range No. 1 west; thence west to the place of beginning.

  The above will give the reader an idea of the county as first organized. Prom
time to time, as the population of the county has increased, the people have
presented to the Commissioners petitions praying to be formed into civil
townships. At times some changes have occurrd before the townships assumed their
present dimensions, but as these were generally of minor importance, we omit
details. The date of the organization of each township is as follows"
   Jackson, Ross and Washington. Saturday, May 15th, 1830; Michigan, March,
1831; Perry, September, 1834; Kirklin, March, 1837; Sugar Creek, 1841; Johnson,
March, 1843; Owen, March, 1848; Center, March, 1872; Madison, March, 1835; 
Warren, 1834.

  In 1841, Honey Creek Township, now a part of Howard County, was organized And
included within the boundaries of Clinton. Clinton having a greater number of
square miles than was required by law, and Howard having less, and the citizens
of Honey Creek being much nearer to Kokomo than to Frankfort, a petition was
presented to the Commissioners of Clinton praying to be attached to Howard. This
prayer was granted at the March term of the Commissioners' Court, 1859,

EDUCATIONAL

   Previous to the Winter of 1829 and 1830, no schools were held in the county.
During that winter two schools were taught, as follows: One in Washington
Township in a log cabin that had been built for a Recorder's office by John
Delvin, of Crawfordsville; the other in what is now Center Township in a log
cabin which had been built for a private dwelling on the Bunnell farm by Jacob
L. Harley. Boon after this, schools were held in various parts of the county,
all of which the reader will find duly recorded in the township histories.

   The school houses of these early days were indeed very rude structures. They
were generally built of round logs, undressed, chunks in the cracks and daubed
with mud, puncheon floor, clapboard roof; a hugh fire place into which the "big
boys" and the "master" rolled back logs; puncheon and plank seats without backs;
with a long seat and a long window around the building, with a writing desk
against the wall.

    Black-boards, charts, maps and globes were unknown. The teacher made quill
pens for his pupils with which to write Some of the older ones "ciphered" and
when stalled went to the "Master" for help. There were no classes formed except
in "spellin' " and "readin'."

  A person who could read fluently, write a legible hand and "cipher" to the
"Single Rule of Three," was deemed competent to act as teacher. Some of the
teachers taught what were considered excellent schools; however, generally
speaking, they were very inefficient, and like the schools, were primitive and
crude. All the early schools were supported by private aid, and as the first
settlers were very scarce of money the wages paid teachers were very small
indeed. Some taught school whose only remuneration was the pleasure of "boarding
around." Ten dollars a month, the teacher boarding himself and cutting his own
wood was considered good wages.

  Such, in brief, was the early school system of Clinton County; the system
under which many of her leading men acquired their education. And let it be
remembered that even these rude advantages were not long afforded, for as soon
as a child was large enough to lend a helping hand, his parents demanded his aid
to assist in obtaining a living.

  But the school system of Indiana has wonderfully developed and improved
teachers and all educational facilities within the last forty years. In this
respect Clinton County has kept pace with those adjoining her. At an early day
her citizens voted, generally, to sell their school sections and let the
interest on the proceeds become a tuition fund for the support of schools, while
they cheerfully taxed themselves to build school houses and otherwise, improve
the county.

   In the twelve townships of this county, each of which is a separate
corporation for school purposes, we first had three Trustees, a Clerk and a
Treasurer. Now one Trustee does the business, assisted by a Director in each
school district, who serves without pay. These Trustees, with the city and
incorporated town Trustees, and the County Superintendent for the County Board
of Education, jointly or severally, have control of the schools of the county,
hire teachers, regulate their salaries, locate school houses, adopt text books
to be used and make all needful rules and regulations with reference to all
things pertaining to schools.

    By the county and township institutes, which by law and rule all teachers
are required to attend, they become acquainted with the value of each teacher,
ascertain the wants and wishes of schools, teachers, patrons and pupils, and
work together to right all wrongs and see that the great school fund so
generously and wisely appropriated by the people of Indiana is expended in such
a way as to do the most good.

   The total cost of schools in Clinton County tor 1877 was $37,488.92. This
speaks for itself. It shows how deeply the people are interested in the cause of
education. They are dotting their county all over with substantial school
houses, furnished with all the modern appliances, and placing all in charge of
well-qualified teachers. Elsewhere we give a table of school statistics, from
which may be learned the present condition of the schools, and the degree of
perfection to which they have advanced. Let the youthful reader study these
statistics, and then compare his advantages with the youth of forty or fifty
years ago, We hope he may he profited by such a comparison; that he may be
stimulated to improve faithfully and diligently the opportunities afforded him,
for surely, surrounded as he is in this the eve of the nineteenth century, the
world expects something from him and has a right to ask, " hat do you more than
others?"

EARLY SETTLERS.

   In preparing the history of Clinton County, we have endeavored to give the
name, date and exact location of the first settlers. The reader will find these
recorded in the township histories. However, for the benefit of those who desire
to know the names of those constituting the basis of the early settlement, we
make a brief summary, naming a large per cent, of those found in the county at
the close of 1829.

  The first was William Clark, who came in 1826, and settled on the west end of
the twelve mile prairie, on the farm owned by the heirs of Mr Hall. About the
same time, Nathan Kirk settled on the east end of the same prairie, on the farm
owned by the heirs of Richard McEntire.

    In every difficult undertaking, the one thing most needful is a resolute,
fearless, energetic leader. Messrs. Clark and Kirk having led the way into the
uninviting wilds of what was then "Washington Territory," and having
demonstrated that it was possible for man to subsist there until a crop could be
raised, others were induced to join them—the years 1827-28 and 29 bringing the
following worthy men: David Kilgore (whose wife is still living and was the
first white woman in the county), Zabina Babcock, Charles Usher, Joseph Hill,
John Kilmore, Judge John Ross, David Young, Samuel Olinger, Abner Baker, Aaron
H. Southard, Benjamin Abott, William Anderson, Samuel Aughe, John Campbell, ____
Dorsey, ___ Denman, ____ Watts, Josiah Cooper, William Miller, John Starkey,
James Gilmore, James Stinson, John Benson, Capt. Bracken, George Michaels, Col.
William Douglass, Robert Dunn, John Douglass, Mathew Bunnell, Isaac D.
Armstrong, Noah Bunnell, John Pence, J. R. Kelley, Jesse Guttery, John Ferguson,
J. B. Douglass, Samuel D. Maxwell, Peter Fudge, William and Nicholas Pence,
Moses Fudge, John McCrary, Eli Armantrout, Arthur Compton, Solomon Young, Samuel
K. Holliday, Mathias Young, Jesse Carter, James Allen, Joseph Steel, Robert
Smith, Andrew Kennedy, Henry Fudge, Walter and Anthony Leek, William Hodgen,
Mordecia McKinsey, Job Harryman, John Wright, William Wyncoop, Isaac Cook, Hiram
Harrison, ____ Ross, William Wagner, Edward Cunningham, James Munnell, John
Martin, Manuel Martin, Nicholas Cunningham, Elihu Buntin, Jacob Martin, David
Martin, H. Strange, Robert Buntin, Alexander Rogers, Thomas Canby, Samuel
Mitchell, James Allen, Elijah Rogers, David Clark. Samuel Allen, Philip Bush,
Moses Watkins, Peter Groves, David Reinhart, Charles Campbell, Samuel Anderson,
Moses Brockman, Win Winship, Samuel McGueren, John and Joseph Allen, Elkana
Timmons, Christian Good, William Harris, Solomon Miller, David Underhill,
Mathias Widnor, ____ Arthur, John Cripe, Shadrach Bowen, Aaron Parcel, Esom
Scott, William Peters, Andrew Major, Samuel Searight, Samuel Cripe, Thaddeus
Pongburn and Daniel Hunter.

PIONEER LIFE.

   Owing to the fact that much of the land in Clinton is prairie, the pioneer of
this county had some advantages over those adjoining, where all was dense woods.
 It will be observed by reference to the township histories that the early
settlers located at the edge of the prairie in the timber. The idea was
prevalent among them that no one could stand to live upon the prairie during 
the Winter season. Time, however, exploded this theory.

   The pioneer generally reached his home through innumerable hardships, such as
cutting his way through dense woods, or passing over muddy, winding and almost
impassable roads. Arriving upon land suitable to his taste, the first thing to
engage his attention was the building of a cabin. This was constructed after the
following manner: Round logs, undressed chunks in the cracks and daubed with
mud, with puncheon floor, hewn with broad-ax and split from hickory or elm. All
was covered with clap boards fastened on with weight-poles held up by "knees."
The chimney material was puncheon at the bottom, sticks and clay upper part,
with pounded dirt jams and packed mud hearth. The door was made of thin split or
hewed puncheons, with wooden hinges and latch. A string attached to the latch
went through the door and hung outside, by which the latch was raised to enter.


   The furniture was of crude and hasty construction, as will appear from a
description of the "bedstead." It was made in one corner of the room. At a
proper distance from the wall a leg or post was fastened to the puncheon floor.
To this post two poles placed at right angles were attached, the other ends
passing through holes in the wall. The frame thus formed was covered with thin
puncheon or plank instead of cords. Upon this was placed a straw bed with which
the pioneer was generally provided. Upon this he laid his body wearied with
honest toil, doubtless to repose more sweetly than does the millionaire upon his
bed of softest down.

   It is needless to inform our readers that in the construction of the bedstead
as described above much depends upon the stability of the post which was
attached to the puncheon floor. The whole structure resting upon that, a little
carelessness in workmanship was likely to lead to sad results. Some rather
laughable incidents have been related to us of parties "turning" too heavily,
causing the fastenings of the post to give way, suddenly precipitating the
unconscious sleeper, straw, boards and all upon the floor, Such an accident was
likely to disturb the pioneer's dreams of future ease and luxury.

   The cabin built and formally possessed by his family, the pioneer was not so
fortunate as to be on the edge of the prairie went vigorously to work to clear a
patch of ground. This was done by cutting out the timber eighteen inches and
under in circumference and building brush heaps around the green trees and
burning them to kill the trees and destroy the shade, that gross might grow.

   The first plowing among the trees, slumps and roots was a serious job. For
this purpose a jumping shovel with a thick short beam and a cutter was used.
This would go bobbing around at a rate that would have tried the patience of Job.

    Until a crop could be raised, the pioneer was compelled to transport the
necessaries of life over muddy and winding roads from points twenty and thirty
miles distant. Meat was easily obtained from the forest, as it abounded in deer,
turkey and wild game of every variety. But for the deer they could scarcely have
lived. It was often almost the only food in the house.

   Through the enterprising spirit of Mr. Underhill, a saw-mill with
corn-cracker attached was built in 1830, on the middle fork of Wild Cat, on the
present site of Cripe Mill, in Ross Township. The same year, Win Winship built,
in Madison Township, a saw-mill, with corn cracker attached. The first regular
grist-mill was built by Jacob Anderson, in Washington Township, on what is now
the Heavilon estate, and known as the "Spring Mills."

   The building of these mills was received with general rejoicing by the
pioneers. Previous to this, it required all the day and a part of the night to
go to mill, the nearest being on the Wea plains. Now to have their corn ground
into meal almost at their own door was indeed no slight cause for rejoicing.

    In those early days was there a cabin to be raised, or some logs to be
rolled, every man in the neighborhood was present to lend a helping hand. Then
in the gatherings at evening, where all appeared clad in homespun, and engaged
heartily in sport without any fear of soiling a plug hat, or injuring the folds
of a "pin-back," there was much real enjoyment. In truth, so kind, genial and
accommodating were all at that time, that very appropriately may it be termed
the "social period."

   The pioneer takes great pleasure in speaking of those early times. All who
have attended the old settlers' meetings have noticed how each one who had
spoken has lingered upon the sociability and honor which characterized the early
settlers. Despite the hardships endured, there are gray heads in Clinton that
sigh for the good old days of the past—men who would gladly be surrounded by the
grand old forests of fifty years ago. For then they say, "I could lay my hand
upon a man's shoulder and call him friend. In sickness, in death, in every time
of need, true friends were present to assist and comfort. Now a man may die, and
his next neighbor will scarcely know it." It seems that as civilization has
advanced, we have wrapped ourselves in conceit and self-importance, and now
strut in supernatural leathers that dare not be touched. "Reform," in this
respect, is certainly demanded.

   Many incidents could be related of trials and hardships undergone by the
pioneer, from the time he first erected his humble log cabin in the woods, with
its stick chimney, one door and window, often without glass at all; of how he
combined in one kitchen, bed-room, dining-room and parlor; and then, finally, of
how a change was wrought; of how the forests began gradually to disappear before
the sturdy arm of the woodman, giving him at first but a small potato and corn
patch, but which, by untiring energy and industry, gradually extended its area,
until today Clinton has farms of which she is justly proud  All honor to the men
who lead in this noble work. May they live long to enjoy the fruits of their
labors.

SURFACE, SOIL, ETC.

   Along the streams and in some localities the surface is gently undulating.
Generally speaking, however, the county is quite level, being just sufficiently
rolling to admit of fair drainage At an early day, the swamps, sloughs and mud
with which the early settlers had to contend were a great impediment to travel,
clearing and cultvation. These obstacles have gradually been overcome. A
thorough system of drainage has been instituted in most parts; the roads are
either piked or graded, and now Clinton stands among the foremost counties in
Indiana, pointing with just pride lo well improved farms under most a excellent
state of cultivation.

   The soil in most parts in a deep, rich loam, with a mixture of sand,
underlaid with a texture of clay. There is a fine region of country in the south
half of the county, extending from northeast to southwest about twelve miles, on
an average, in length, and from three to four miles in width. This is known as
the "Twelve-Mile Prairie." No finer body of farming land than this, with
thorough drainage, is to be found in this section of the State. Some other
prairies of smaller dimensions are found within the borders of Clinton. The soil
in the entire county is exceedingly productive and well adapted to the raising
of corn, wheat, oats, rye, hay, fruits, vegetables—in short, all the cereals and
other productions of Northern Indiana.

TIMBER.

    With the exception of the prairies, the county was covered with a dense
growth of deciduous timber, among which was a very large proportion of walnut,
poplar, ash, oak, hickory, maple, beech and other valuable varieties. There was
also an undergrowth of plum and hawthorn. The walnut and poplar are fast
disappearing, much of this having been destroyed by the early sellers in
clearing their lands. At that time they had no adequate idea of its value.

STREAMS AND WATER COURSES.

   The principal streams are the South, Middle and Kilmore Forks of the Wild
Cat, passing through the middle and northern portions, and Sugar Creek in the
southeastern part of the county The exact course of these streams, with each
tributary, may be seen by reference to the map on another page of the Atlas.

BOUNDARIES.

   Clinton County, named in memory of De Witt Clinton, is situated in the
northwestern part of the Suite, not far from the geographical center, and has an
area of 408 square miles. It is bounded on the north by Carroll and Howard
Counties; east by Howard, Tipton and Hamilton; south by Boone; west by
Montgomery and Tippecanoe.

COURT HOUSE.

   The first court house of Clinton County was a hewed log structure. 20x24
feet, one story in height; puncheon floor and clapboard roof. It was all in one
room used only for holding court - the various county offices being at the
residences of the office-holders. It was built by Col William Douglass, County
Agent, in the Winter of 1830-31. It stood on the south side of the public
square, on the lot occupied by the "Trade Palace"  of Swan & Southard. The
entire cost of the building was about one hundred dollars.

   The present court house is ___ by ___ feet. It is two stories in height the
lower being used for county offices, the upper for a court room. It was
commenced in 1837 and finished in 1838. The builder was John Elder. The entire
cost, when completed, was about twelve thousand dollars. When built, this court
house was fully up with the times. But this is an age of progression. Clinton
County, since 1838, has made rapid strides in the way of improvements of every
kind. Her court house does her injustice. We hope the day is not far distant
when a building will be erected equaling, if not surpassing, some of those found
in her sister counties.

EARLY MARRIAGES.

    From the days when it was always Summer, in Eden, to these days when it is
mostly Winter in fallen latitudes, the world of a man has invariably gone one
way—the way of the love of a woman. The first parties in Clinton to consummate
their love in marriage were Daniel Stogden, of La Fayette, to Emily, daughter of
Esom Scott; and Aaron H. Southard to Rebecca Hood. Both of these merriages
occured in 1829, before the organization of the county. The parties were
accordingly compelled to go to La Fayette for their license.

   The book from the clerk's office, showing the record of early marriages, has
been misplaced, so we cannot give, on authority, the first marriage after the
organization of the county. It is thought, by good authority, to have been that
of David Clore to Susan Scott.

FRANKFORT.

   By an act of the Legislature, approved January 29, 1830, Robert Taylor, Hedry
Restine, Hugh B. McKeen, John Cane and Jeremiah J. Corbaly were appointed
Commissioners to locate the county seat of Clinton County. After due
deliberation, they decided to accept the proposition of Mr. John Pence, which
was to denote sixty acres of land and $100.00 in money, if they would locate
said county seat on his land. Accordingly John Pence became the proprietor of
the town of Frankfort, which was surveyed and laid out on the 9th day of May, 1830.

   The new county seat made very slow progress, and  for quite a number years
Frankfort was almost at a standstill. There was little change in this
respect—the  population increasing very slowly until the year 1870. At that time
the population numbered 1,800.

   As we have stated elsewhere, on the 14th day of October. 1870, the first
train of cars was run into Frankfort. This marked a new era in the history of
the town. Soon her railroad connections were such as to enable her to compete
favorably, in a business point of view, with the leading towns and cities
throughout the State. The scene suddenly changed. Business in all departments
revived, her population began rapidly to increase, and in the past seven years
has swelled from 1,800 to over 3,000. A person acquainted with Frankfort ten
years ago, on visiting the thriving city of 1877, would scarcely recognize, in
Ihe staid old town of that date, the air of a city which she now justly assumes.
The various branches of trade and the professions have been well represented,
and have always shown a lively, enterprising spirit.

    It is an old saying, that "The country makes the town." If this be true,
then Frankfort has before her a brilliant future, and is destined to be a town
of much importance, as it is in the center of one of the best agricultural
regions in the State.

    The spirit of public enterprise, which characterizes her citizens, is highly
commendable. We are not indulging in idle remarks, but uttering a truth, when we
say that in no city of the same site and age in Indiana can a better class of
business houses and dwellings be found.

   Owing to the fact that wood, coal and such material is easily reached from
this point, manufactories thrive splendidly. From present indications we indulge
in the assertion that at no distant day Frankfort will be a manufacturing city
of no little importance.

   The town was incorporated at an early day, but the charter was allowed to die
out for a number of years. In 1875, it was incorporated as a city, and at the
first city election, held December 21st, 1875, the following officers were
elected, viz.: Mayor, P. N. Gard; Clerk, William M. Comley; Treasurer, James A.
Seawright, Marshal, I. C. Hurst; Assessor, William P. Ashley; Councilmen, Robert
P. Shanklin, T. J. Holdridge, John Thacher, B. F. Cohee, George A. Smith and K.
0. Penefiel.

   The first building erected in the town of Frankfort was a log cabin built by
Col. Samuel D. Maxwell, on the lot now occupied by the Paris Block. Col. N. T.
Catterlin sold the first goods in the village. Other early merchants were John
H. Dunn, John McLain and Isaac Claypool.

   The first hotels were kept by Samuel E. Holliday, Samuel Mitchell and Thomas
McClure. In this branch of business, great improvement has been made. The
Coulter House, recently finished (in 1876), reflects much credit upon its owner
and builder, Mr. J. H. Coulter, showing him to be a man of much enterprise. The
building was erected at a cost of $15,000. It is complete in every department,
having all the modern improvements. The house, being placed in charge of L. T.
Osborn, who knows as well how to make guests feel at home, is becoming the pride
of the traveling public.

   The following is a list of the business, professional and tradesmen, of the
city of Frankfort at this time:

   John H. Rarner & Co., fancy dress goods and carpets; B. F. Cohee & Co., dry
goods, clothing, boots and shoes; J. H. Paris & Co., dry goods and groceries;
Caster, Seawright & Co., dry goods, carpets, etc.; Smith & Hedgecock, dry goods;
Beeler & Epstein, clothing, boots and shoes; Southard A Swan, dry goods; M.
Hertz & Co., dry goods; J. W. Coulter & Bro., clothing, hats, caps, boots and
shoes; Andy Hoover, clothing, hats, caps, boots and shoes; John Barnett,
clothing, tailoring, hats, caps, boots and shoes; J. G. Meifield, merchant
tailoring; Hughes & Co., boots and shoes; J. H. Miner, boots and shoes: J. M.
Morgan, tailor; Marvin, Booher & Price, hardware, agricultural implements, etc;
J. M. Cast, hardware and agricultural implements; Hillis & Avery, groceries; N.
T. Catterlin & Son, groceries and queensware; G. & M. Smith, groceries and
glassware; R. C. Clark, groceries, etc.; John Green, groceries; Kelley Bros,,
groceries; B. F. Kuhns, Grange store, groceries; J. H. Coulter & Bro., drug and
book store; E. Hoover & Son, drug store; Bryant & Norris, drug store; W. P.
Ewald, drug store; First National Bank, W. R. Carter, President, D. P. Barner,
Cashier; Farmers' Bank, Samuel Ayres, President, Jackson Douglas, Cashier;
George L. Kempf, flouring mill; Eritch & Rothermel, flouring-mill; Dolsen &
Holdridge, dealers in grain; R. G. Benefiel, dealer in grain and staves; Baum k
Aughe, livery stable; Philip Dorner, tannery and dealer in hides and leather;
William Dearth, livery stable; millinery stores, Mrs. Jacob Pearce, Mrs.
Entreken & Co., Mrs. Myres, Mrs. Scrogg, Mrs. Baxter, Mrs. Andrews, Mrs. Houser
and Miss Duckworth; butchers are Wilson Ulm, Pharos & Atkinson and George
Mitchell. D. P. Blake, silversmith and dealer in clocks, watches and silver
ware; H. T. Shepherd, silversmith and dealer in watches, clocks, etc.; Joshua J.
Aughe, gunsmith; Gaddis & Comley, undertakers and dealers in furniture; G. W.
Goodwin & Co., undertakers, dealers in and manufacturers of furniture; B. Byrea,
undertaker and dealer in furniture. Hotels: Coulter House, Duffy House, Scrogg
House, Centennial House and Garber House; Cushwa & Bro., bakery and restaurant;
Philip Kempf, bakery and restaurant; Joseph Wolf, carriage maker; Pharon J.
Kern, carriage maker; J. A. Bieber, carriage maker, Pleasant Lough, smith and
wagon shop; Eldridge & Moody, blacksmiths; W. A. Colby, smith and wagon shop;
John Lee, wagon maker; Levi Kreig, wagon maker; George Zook, wagon maker; Becker
& Brofield, painters and paper hangers; Robert Ostler, painter; William Jones,
painter; J. W. Hammond, architect and carpenter; carpenters and contractors are
Barhart, Wise, Palmer, Howard, Crebs, Fisher, Stetler and Temples; John A.
Kramer & Bros., saw and planing mill; D. P. Pence, planing-mill and dealer in
lumber; John B. Green, dealer in lumber, building material and shingles; W. G.
Morris, dealer in lumber; W. J. E. Morris, dealer in lumber, lath, shingles,
etc.; William Wolever, saddlery and harness shop; Erisman & Bro., saddlery and
harness shop; Jonathan Brandon, pump maker; W. C. Henon & Son, pump makers; H.
O. Heichert, photograph artist; George Eaton, boot and shoemaker; Robert
Calhoun, boots and shoes; D. W. Paul, marble works;  J. Van Sickle & Son, marble
works.

FRANKFORT PUBLIC SCHOOLS.

   The educational interests of Frankfort present no less striking evidence of
growth than do business or other interests. They have prospered much beyond the
average, and citizens have cause to rejoice in the excellence of their
educational progress.

   Prior to 1865, the public schools of the place were such as might then have
been found in many similarly situated towns of the State. At this time,
Frankfort was a village of limited population. The school accommodations were
extremely meager, but sufficient for the few wants of the time and place. A
one-story brick building, of two rooms, still standing on the corner of Columbia
and Ohio streets, and now used for a dwelling furnished what was then thought to
be the needed external provision for free education. School was in session about
four months of each year. Few teachers were continued longer than one term, but
the "village teacher" was the best to be had in the county. The school builded
belter than it knew. As the town grew in numbers, school interest gained in
influence. Soon the accommodations were found inadequate to the needs of the
increasing number of pupils, In 1865, the population was about 850. The place,
however, had no railroad connection with neighboring towns. But with the growing
prospect, educational interests were taking more definite shape, and receiving
more general support.

   Mr. Enos Hoover, the efficient Township Trustee, recognizing the growing
interests of the school population, prepared to erect a building that should
afford ample room. For that time, and for the existing need, it was a stately
structure. The house was two-story, of brick, with fine location, and afforded
abundant accommodation in four large rooms for the current school interests. The
cost of the building was about $5,000. Mr. Hoover deserves honorable mention as
a pioneer Trustee, who was too honest to his trust, too faithful to the future
interests of his public charge, not to see the great reward of his educational
work in a prosperous, magnificent school system of the future, worthily built
and patronized by a people proud of its growth.

   Succeeding this (1865), Mr. F. H. Staley had charge of the schools, effected
a partial grading and classification and did much good work. Boys and girls from
the rural districts were induced to attend, and not the least valuable of the
influences exerted by the schools under Mr Staley's management was the strong
sympathy for educational progress diffused throughout the county.

    In the meantime, Frankfort had grown, both in population and business
enterprise; and in 1870 it was connected by railroad with transport and
neighboring points on the north, and with Crawfordsville, Indianapolis and the
central part of the State, south. With these bonds of union with adjoining towns
and cities, came an effort to do better for herself educationally. The once
commodious brick "seminary," the pride of county and town, became too small to
accommodate all the aspiring youth. Eight years, up to 1873, had shown marked
progress in the development of school interests. Yet during much of these eight
years, the schools had labored under disadvantages. The schools were imperfectly
classified and hence lacked uniformity in their systems of discipline and
instruction. Schools were supported annually by public funds for six months,
only, an additional three months being sometimes continued, under the control of
private tuition. But from a want of a well-defined course of study, the several
departments were more or less disconnected and the good results of the school
were individual rather than general. The interests, both business and
educational, of the now rapidly growing city demanded better appliances, more
room, and more thorough and systematic work.

   In 1873, a new School Board was appointed, consisting of Samuel Ayres, for
one year; D. P. Barner, for two years; J. H. Paris, for three years.
Preparations were commenced at once for the erection of a new school building.
Neighboring cities were visited by Mr. Paris and others of the Board and
citizens; school buildings were inspected; architects were consulted; plans were
drawn up and considered, and no small care taken, by the Secretary, especially,
to whom was left in a great measure the preparation for the coming work, to make
and submit a structure that should serve the city with honor and usefulness.

   The site chosen was the square south of Wabash and west of Third streets,
occupied by the building erected in 1865. The grounds were admirably situated,
and handsomely arranged. The bouse was a stone-faced brick structure and erected
at a cost of $30,000. Mr. Eppinghauser, of Terre Haute, was the architect, and
showed himself a master workman. The building contains ten school rooms, capable
of seating 600 pupils; and an assembly room with capacity for 450. It is
furnished throughout with single seats and usual modern conveniences. The
library and laboratory room on the second floor, supplied with books apparatus,
comprises not the least valuable of the school appliances.

   The readiness with which the citizens respond to the judgment of the Board,
and with which they acquiesced in the large outlays of funds for school
purposes, suggests their appreciation of educational privileges.

    During the Winter of 1873-74, no public schools were sustained. The
schooling of Frankfort children for that year was obtained from schools
supported and managed by private enterprise. No considerable number of children,
however, were collected. The public funds were allowed to accumulate preparatory
to the general opening of the school the following year.

   The building having been completed during the Summer of 1874, the new school
was opened the 21st of the following September, under the supervision of Mr. J.
E. Morton and the special instruction of seven other room teachers. With
admirable forethought on the part of the Superintendent, the work of
classification had been done before the opening day. The course of study was
arranged to cover eight years in the grades and three years in advanced work.
Free tuition was afforded for nine months in the year. As might have been
expected, the bringing together and working in harmony of 400 students, under an
entirely new administration and new system, was not effected at once nor easily.
Nine months, however, accomplished much. For the first year, 345 pupils were in
average daily attendance. The school met with occasional opposition, but not
such as to hinder its rapid progress.

    In June, 1875, D. P. Barner, whose term of office expired, was succeeded by
S. H. Doyal. Mr. Barner had lent the school much personal as well as official
aid and influence, and handed to his successor a record of integrity and
devotion to his public charge. Samuel Ayres had been reappointed the previous year.

   Thus were the Frankfort public schools the outgrowth of the wants of the people.

   Mr. Morton was re-elected to the Superintendency in 1875. In September of the
second year, the "Frankfort High School" was organized and given in charge of
Prof. C. S. Ludlam.

   This gentlemen came highly recommended from Bloomington, Ill., and entered
upon a course of labor whose success has in no wise lessened the estimation in
which the people received him.

  The High School has done and is destined to do a very valuable work in the
Frankfort educational system. At the close of this school year, June, 1876, six
young ladies were graduated. Having completed the three years' High School
Course, they were granted diplomas of honor, as the first fruits of the new
school organization. From the Superintendent's report concerning the schools for
the second year, we learn that 555 pupils were enrolled in the several
departments, with an average daily attendance of 397.

   For the school year beginning September, 1876, J. E. Morton was succeeded by
R. G. Boone in charge of the school, Prof. C. S. Ludlam being continued in the
High School. Under the new superintendency, the High School curriculum was
extended to four years, and the work of the grades revised. Text books, except
readers, were not put into the hands of the children before the fourth year, and
oral instruction was made to take their place. A course of lectures was planned
for the year, and with the funds thus obtained, together with voluntary
donations from interested citizens, and substantial assistance from the Board of
Trustees, steps were taken to supply the school with a good reference library.
The first books were put in in January, 1877. To these were added others by
donation and by purchase, until, at the opening of the fourth school year,
September, 1877, 300 volumes were made accessible to pupils. These were chiefly
books of reference, and proved valuable additions to the school appliances.
Students use the library for authority upon all topics called in question at
recitation, study or elsewhere. Such reference cultivates choice of expression
in writing or speaking, strengthens the reasoning, appeals to the judgment, and,
while it heightens the memory, destroys the tendency to rely upon it, since, if
one has his information upon a topic from a half dozen authors, he will not
easily recite from the tezt of any one. For this reason it seems that no kind or
amount of investment has done so much to make thorough, original, diligent
students as the money invested in cyclopaedias histories and other books of
reference and authority for the schools.

    During the same year, also, a collection of apparatus was furnished for the
illustration of work in physics, etc. This is the very efficient handmaid of a
library, and, as a means of arousing enthusiasm, is scarcely inferior to it.

   The High School is one of the commissioned High Schools of the State. The
course of study is the usual high school curriculum, and prepares students for
the Freshman Class in the University. Non-residents are admitted to the
privileges of the school by the payment of a nominal tuition, and many annually
take advantage of the privilege to enjoy the thoroughness and completeness of
the course without the expense that would be incurred at college or other
distant schools.

   Already, because of numerous accessions to the primary departments, and for
want of room, pupils are admitted but a half of each day during the first year.
This ha been found beneficial in many respects. It effects a vast saving in
expense, accommodates nearly twice the number of pupils, imposes less
confinement upon the young, and secures the same efficiency and extent of work
that attaches to full attendance.

   The heartiest sympathy exists between city and county schools, officers and
interests; and with the continued support of the citizens, and with usually
prosperous times, the Frankfort schools will prove a means of vast usefulness to
the city. The Press and the school are the two great civilizers of the age and
no community can afford to live without their benign influences.

THE JAIL.

   The first jail was built in the northeast corner of the public square, in
1832. The builder was Philip Kramer. It was of hewed timber, about one foot
square, and two stories in height. In the lower story, which was composed of a
double layer of logs, there were no doors—the entrance being by a flight of
stairs on the outside of the building which led to the second story. From there
one descended to the lower story by means of a trap door. A prisoner being
placed in the lower story with solid timber a foot square and more above, around
and beneath him, was comparatively safe This building stood until 1844, when it
was burnt down. At the time of the burning there was a prisoner confined within
its walls, and as he was never seen after, he was supposed to have been burned.

   The year following, 1845, a second jail was built on the ground where the
first had stood. It was somewhat after the plan of the first, being two-story;
the lower was of stone, the upper of brick. A dwelling house for the jailor was
built in connection. The builder was John P. Crothers. This stood until 1874,
when it was declared insufficient for the safe keeping of prisoners. Accordingly
the Commissioners—A. F. Whitman, Daniel Slipher and Richard Fraser- began to
devise plans which resulted in the building of the present substantial jail. The
architect was J. H. Rhodes. The builder and contractor was J. A. Coulter. The
entire cost of the jail and residence was $26,250.

GRAVEL ROADS.

JEFFERSON & FRANKFORT GRAVEL ROAD CO.

   The article of association of the above named road was filed with the
Recorder April 26, 1869. The road commences at the west end of the town plat of
Jefferson, on Main street, at a point where the Mulberry & Jefferson Gravel Road
terminates; thence east on the line of the Jefferson and Frankfort State road
until it intersects the Frankfort and Crawfordsville State road; thence in a
northeasterly direction along said road until it reaches the Main cross street,
in the town of Frankfort—a distance of four miles. The cost per mile was $1,800.

   The gross receipts of the road for the year ending July 16, 1877, was
$496.96. The road is almost free from debt, and in good order.

   The Directors are Joseph C. Suit, Joseph Heavilon, Isaac Cook and Harman M.
Aughe.

BARNESVILLE & FRANKFORT GRAVEL ROAD CO.

   This road commences in Frankfort, at a point in Washington Street, where the
west line of Main street crosses Washington; thence in a west and northwesterly
direction to the north line of Section 19, where it terminates, forming a
junction with the eastern termination of the Dayton & Hamilton Gravel Road. The
length of the road is five miles and 180 rods.

   The capital stock of the company was $1,200, divided into 480 shares of $25
each.

   The amount of toll collected for the year ending June 30, 1877, was $1,006.20.

   The Directors are Samuel Ayres, James Bell, John B. Ayres and Henry J. Baring.

HAMILTON & DAYTON GRAVEL ROAD CO.

   The article of association of this road was filed with the Recorder May 6,
1863. The road commences on the east branch of the South Fork of Wild Cat, east
of Dayton, in Tippecanoe County; thence southeast to the town of Mulberry;
thence east to, and one mile east of, the town of Hamilton - distance of eight
and a half miles.

RAILROADS

   For a time State roads and canals answered every purpose. Bui soon they were
inadequate and by far too slow a means by which to transport the bountiful
harvests of Clinton to market. A railroad was accordingly the imperative demand.
The first one constructed within the borders of the county was the Indianapolis,
Cincinnati & La Fayette. It crosses the southwest corner of the county, a
distance of about four miles, making a station at Colfax. The road was completed
in 1852. The citizens of Clinton, and especially those along the line, being
thoroughly alive to the importance of such an enterprise, subscribed liberally,
thereby aiding materially in the completion of the work.

   In May, of the year 1857, a large meeting of the citizens of Clinton and
adjoining counties was called at Frankfort, to consider the continuation of a
railroad from Crawrordsville, via Frankfort and Kokomo, to Ft. Wayne. The
citizens, after contributing liberally, both of their time and money, and after
much work had been done, were compelled, in 1865, to see the enterprise abandoned.

    In 1869, the grade and franchises passed into the hands of a new company
known as the Logansport, Crawfordsville & Southwestern Railroad. This company
pushed their work energetically, and on the 14th day of October, 1870, was run
the first train of cars into Frankfort. This was a day in the history of
Frankfort and Clinton County long to be remembered. Hundreds of her citizens
gathered along the line to witness the coming of the "Iron Horse." Soon his
coming was announced, and, as he steamed proudly into the city, he was greeted
with exultant shouts from the overjoyed inhabitants.

    In 1874, a railroad was constructed from Frankfort to Kokomo.

    In 1875, the iron of the La Fayette, Muncie & Bloomington Railway was laid.
This road passes entirely across the county, and through Frankfort.

    Frankfort is also on the line of the Chicago & South Atlantic Railway. This
road forms one connecting link from Chicago to the sea shore.

    Including all, there are now about twenty railroad stations in the county.

   The people of the county can and do appreciate these great works of
improvement, because they have done it themselves, without the aid of
government. These railroads connect Frankfort and Clinton County with all the
important railways, north, south, east and west. The farmer now has a market at
his door for all his supplies. The farmer, merchant and mechanic can now say
that the monopoly of freights has been broken down, and their county seat can
now compare favorably with other cities of the State.

PUBLIC ROADS,

    In 1830, about the time of the organization, the public roads engaged the
attention of the pioneer. His little "patch" of ground was now growing into a
field, and a surplus was being produced. He had no home market, hence the
necessity of roads to enable him to get beyond the limits of the county.

   The first State road laid out through the county was the Newcastle and La
Fayette road, passing from the former place, in Henry County, through Straw
Town, Kirk's Cross Roads and the Twelve Mile Prairie to La Fayette. The road was
laid out by Morgan Shortridge, Commissioner, in 1830. About the same time, the
Michigan State road was laid out from Lake Michigan to the Ohio River, passing
through the county from north to south. Soon after this, roads were located from
Crawfordville, through Frankfort, to Fort Wayne, from Kirk's Cross Roads to
Delphi, and, in 1838, from Muncie to La Fayette, through the center of the county.

   The opening of these leading thoroughfares gave the inhabitants of Clinton an
outlet in any direction they might choose.

   In examining the County Commissioners' record of about this time, we find
their principal business was the hearing and granting of petitions for county
roads, leading into the State roads.

    Many of the farmers of that day hauled their grain in wagons to Chicago and
Michigan City, on the lake, where they received from thirty-seven to fifty cents
per bushel for their wheat. It required from twelve to fifteen days to make the
trip. We venture the assertion that the farmer of 1835 went through the
laborious undertaking just described with less murmuring than is heard front the
lips of the farmer of 1877, who hauls his wheat over a pike a distance of four
or five miles and receives for it $1.15 per bushel.

   The completion of the Wabash & Erie Canal from Toledo, Ohio, to Terre Haute,
in October, 1849, marked the beginning of a new era in this part of the State. A
good market was then opened at La Fayette and Delphi. To make this trip required
but one and two days, and better prices were received for their products than in
former days at Chicago.

THE NEWSPAPERS.

   The following, as published and verified by the editor of the Crescent and
Banner, is probably quite correct.

   The history of Journalism in Clinton County is the history of early
struggles, attended with many failures, until finally success crowns the labors
of those whose chief aim is to edify as well as entertain the reading public.
The history of the newspapers commenced at an early period of the settlement of
the county, and like all other efforts of a literary character under such
surroundings, it required constant effort to keep the enterprise in existence.
To follow this subject through its various viscissitudes, and to attempt to
recall the many interesting reminiscences that an old settler would gladly
indulge in, would extend this article far beyond our space, so we must content
ourselves with a historical sketch. In this article, the dates, when given, are
taken from the records, and in other cases the time is approximated, hut still
near enough to be practically correct.

   Among the many newspaper enterprises attempted in this county, we find that
the Frankfort Argus was the pioneer. This paper was established in January,
1839, and was published by Noah T. Catterlin and James R. Pile. It continued
under this management until August of the same year, at which time Mr. Pile
retired. The enterprise was then conducted by N. T. Catterlin and John Catterlin
until about April, 1840, when the management again changed, and the business
conducted by N. T. Catterlin alone until sometime in 1842, when the paper was
discontinued. The Argus, during its publication, advocated the political
doctrines of the Democracy as promulgated by that party at that time.

   The next newspaper enterprise was started in the Summer of 1843, by G. Weaver
Snyder. This gentleman came from Crawfordsville, set up a printing office, and
started a newspaper, calling it the Frankfort Observer. The paper was printed in
the building known as the "Wilson House." It was carried on about one year, but
not receiving sufficient patronage, it, too, succumbed to the force of
unfavorable circumstances, and was discontinued just before the election of
James K. Polk to the Presidency in 1844, of whom it was a warm advocate.

   In the Fall of 1874, T. J. Taylor made the third effort at publishing a
newspaper in the county, and set up a printing office in a building which stood
on the lot now occupied by the "Flag Store." His paper was called the
Clintonian. It also advocated the policy of the Democratic party. It was
continued under this management until the Summer of 1848, when its publication
was terminated.

   About the first of June, 1849, Joseph R. Horsley, of Delphi, purchased the
office of the "Clintonian," set up another printing office in the upper rooms of
the building now owned by H. Y Morrison and William Wolever. Here he commenced
the publication of a newspaper styled the Clinton News, and advocated the
Democratic policy. The paper continued under this management about one year,
when Mr. Horsley's connection with the office ceased.

   In the Autumn of 1850, John Gamble and Hugh B. McCain purchased the new
printing office of Mr. Horsley and commenced the publication of a newspaper in
the same building where the Clintonian had flourished awhile and then met its
fate. It was afterward removed to the "Eye-Tooth" at the northwest corner of the
public square. This paper was entitled the Compiler. The paper was Democratic in
its politics and continued under this management about one year, when Mr. McCain
retired. The paper was continued a short time by the other partner under the
same title. About the 1st of October, 1851, Mr. Gamble purchased new type,
press, and fixtures, and enlarged from a five to a six column paper and gave it
the title of the Frankfort Crescent, which name it has retained to the present
day, devoted to the interests of the Democratic organization, notwithstanding
the many different hands through which it had passed.

    McClurg & Pressly, —In April, 1854, Leander McClurg and Joseph T. Pressly,
two young attorneys of Frankfort, purchased the office of Mr. Gamble and assumed
the editorial department of the paper until 1855, at which time James B. Newton,
of Delphi purchased the interest of Mr. Pressly. The paper was then conducted by
McClurg and Newton until the Winter or 1857. At this time, William H. Ghere
purchased the interest of Mr. McClurg, and the paper was conducted by Newton and
Ghere about one year. At this time, the interest of Mr. Ghere was sold to James
B. Newton, who conducted the paper one year in his own name. At this time,
McClurg again purchased one-half of the office and his name became again
associated with the publication of the Crescent. The business was conducted by
McClurg & Newton, who removed the office into the third story of the building
formerly known as the "Douglas Corner," where they continued the publication of
the paper about four years, or until the 20th day of March, 1862. At this time,
they sold the office to Frank D. Caldwell, of Kilmore, in this County. Mr C.
carried on the publication of the paper in the same rooms for one year, or until
the 21st of March, 1863. He then sold the office and fixtures to Joshua N.
Armantrout, of Frankfort. He continued the publication of the Crescent at the
same place for four years, until the 19th day of April, 1867. At this time, he
sold the office to a joint stock company, who placed Thurman H. Palmer in charge
as editor, and John C. Taylor as publisher. This management continued until
about the 1st of July of the same year.

    At this time, Allen E. Paige, of Frankfort, having purchased a number of
shares in the stock company, assumed the editorial management, with Mr. Taylor
retiring as publisher. Mr. Paige continued the entire management until the 1st
day of October, 1869. At this time, Mr. P. sold one-half of the office to Jabez
T. Cox, of Tipton. The business was then under the management of Paige & Cox.
This management continued until the 21st day of January, 1870, when Mr. C.
bought out his partner's interest, and continued the business in the name of
Jabez T. Cox, who was proprietor of the paper until February, 1872, when a joint
stock company was formed, to whom he sold out, and from the 1st day of February
until June, the paper was nominally published and edited by the "Crescent
Company," though practically W. H. Ghere and T. H. Palmer were really conducting
it. On the 16th day of June, 1872, E. H. Staley assumed the editorial control
and the business management of the Crescent. He was first employed at a salary,
but in less than two months W. H. Ghere was taken sick with a premonition that
he would not survive. Hence he insisted on selling out his, the controlling
interest, to E. H. Staley, who purchased the same for $1,820, and thus became a
principal stockholder in the concern.

    In February, the company purchased new material, type, fixtures and a $1,400
Taylor cylinder press. The paper was enlarged to a wide eight column sheet 27x42
inches, and printed on brevier type. The enlargement and other improvements made
on the Crescent worked a new era in the history of journalism in Frankfort.
Whatever difference existed between the newspapers in Clinton County at that
time and the same papers now, in mechanical appearance, size and management, it
due to the new departure taken by the Crescent in 1872. Since then numerous
additions have been made to the Crescent office, both in the news and job
departments. A large quarto jobber has been added, a fine four-horse-power steam
engine of the latest and most desirable pattern, and other additions and
improvements till the principal stockholder has himself invested $5,600 in the
concern. The subscription list has run up from 375 (what ii was in January, 1872
to 1200 or more and constantly increasing. It is the aim of the present
conductor of the paper to make it a live local and general newspaper, devoted to
the interests of Clinton County and of Frankfort. The aim is not so much lo make
the paper a political organ as a paper to be taken and read by all classes.

    The Clinton County Republican, - The first number of this paper appeared
September 4, 1856, with T. T. Scott and Alanson P. Tyler, proprietors, and A. P.
Tyler as Editor. On the morning of the 17th of January, 1857, it was destroyed
by fire, by the burning of the building on the west side of the square, known as
the "Mammoth Brick." Number 19 was the last issue before the fire, Scott and
Taylor re-established it, and issued Number 31 on April 30, 1857. July 16, Mr.
Tyler retired from the management, and it went into the hands of a committee,
composed of J. N. Sims, John M. Cowan, Samuel Black, Eli Armantrout and William
Mitten, with Mr. Scott as publisher.

   With Number 4, second volume, October 7th, it passed into the hands of Mr.
Scott, who issued three numbers, when it again passed under the control of a
committee, composed of Dr. W. P. Dunn, Samuel Black, George Major, Adam Blinn,
James Gaster and James H. Paris. This was known as the "Clinton County
Republican Publishing Co." Dr. Meredith was made business manager and local
editor. It continued under this management until Number 32, Volume 2, when it
was sold to Mr. Jesse Miner, who issued eight numbers, the last of which
appeared on October 14, 1858.

    In December, of 1863, James Beard commenced the publication of the Clinton
Republican Banner. This was continued until the 25th day of January, 1866, at
which time it passed into the hands of P. W. Gard, who changed the name to
Frankfort Weekly Union. He continued its publication for one year, when Jasper
H. Keys took charge of it for a few months, after which it again fell into the
care of Mr. Beard, who changed its name to the Clinton Union Banner. Mr. B.
published it regularly until March, of 1872, when he sold out to Fletcher
Meredith, who changed the name to the Frankfort Banner. Mr. Meredith continued
proprietor and editor until August 12, 1874, at which time W. H. Hart became its
owner and editor, remaining so until March, of 1876, at which time Joseph B.
Cheadle took possession, commencing with Number 1, of Volume 13. The Banner
office is now provided with a fine cylinder press, new fixtures and type, and
has recently been enlarged.

THE CHURCHES.

   How much civilization, progress and all that in good in morals, government or
society is indebted to the churches of our land, few realize. Within Clinton
County there are about forty-five church buildings belonging to the different
denominations. What these have done and are doing in the way of making the
citizens of Clinton upright and honorable in all things, is beyond the ken of
human knowledge. Eternity alone can reveal their work.

    We here append a brief history of the churches in Frankfort, which, in the
main, is taken from the Centennial History, and which the Pastors of the
churches inform us is correct.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.

   The church was organized in July, 1881, at the residence of Mr. John
Douglass, father of Jackson Douglass, by Rev. James A. Carnahan, now of Dayton,
Ind., and Rev. John Thompson, one of the Professors at Crawfordsville. As far as
can be learned in the absence of the first records, which are lost, there were
sixteen members received into the organization, vis.: John Douglass, Susannah
Douglass, Col. William Douglass, Samuel Mitchel, Hope Mitchel, Joseph
McClelland, Isabel McClelland, Samuel McQuern, Mrs. McQuern, David Barnes, Mrs.
Barnes, Rachel Byres, John Gray, Sarah Gray, Samuel Douglass and Annie Douglass.

   The little church was served a short season by Rev James A. Carnahan, and the
succession of Pastors has been as follows, differing in length of service, the
average being about four years: L. G. Bell, Samuel Taylor, Robert W. Allen, W.
M. Stryker, John Van Dyke, C A. Munn, E. Barr, W. P. Kontz, J. W. Torrence, R.
C. Colmery and E. Barr a second time.

   In 1833 or '34, the Congregation built their first house of worship on the
lot now occupied by them, at a cost of about $300. This was enlarged to about
double its capacity in 1838, at a cost of about $1,000, including the finishing
up of the older part, which had not before been either ceiled or plastered.

    In 1859, was dedicated a brick edifice, which had now succeeded the old
frame, at a cost of about $4,000. This has given place to the beautiful new
house, built in 1876, SI a cost of $19,000.

    The growth of the congregation is marked by these repeated buildings and
their respective costs. The church has before it a very hopeful future of
usefulness, numbering at this date about 175 members.

    In the Spring of 1832, was organized a Sabbath School, which is believed to
have been the first in the county. This beginning in the county with the church
was transferred to the town, and has never been intermitted.

    The present Pastor is K. Barr.

METHODIST CHURCH.

    The first conveyance made to Jacob Blinn, William Irwin and Isaac T. Wilds,
Trustees of the Methodist Episcopal Church, by Abraham Aughe and Mary Aughe, was
Lot No. 77, in Frankfort, and dated August 22, 1834. The second conveyance was
Lot No. 78, made by Samuel Rhorbaugh and others, to John Barner, John Pence,
Jacob Blinn, Cyrus P. Pence and Jesse Aughe, Trustees, November 4, 1850. The
Trustees erected a frame building on Lot No. 77, in 1835. Rev. James L. Thompson
was then Presiding Elder, and resided at or near Carlisle, Sullivan County. His
first hymn at his first quarterly meeting in the new church was his grand old
favorite:
        My span of life will soon be done,
        The passing moments say,
        As length'ning shadows over the mead
        Proclaim the close of day.

   Rev. James Armstrong was the Presiding Elder in the La Fayette District in
1832-34. The district then reached from the Wabash to Lake Michigan. In 1834,
Mr. Armstrong resided at Door Village, and traveled to Frankfort and held
quarterly service in the old log Court House, south of the Public Square.

   The first traveling minister on Ihe Frankfort Circuit was Miles Huffaker. The
territory embraced a part of Tippecanoe, Boone, Montgomery and Clinton Counties,
and was known as Huntsville Circuit. The successors of Mr. Huffaker were Steven
R. Ball, Thomas J. Brown, John L. Beloat, Joseph White, Ancil Beach and Geo W.
Stafford.

   The first Leaders and Stewards were Mathew Bunnell, Thomas McClure, Joel W.
Harland, David Fudge and  Alexander Harley.

   On the 12th of June, 1851, the Trustees contracted for the present church
building, of brick, which was originally 36x56 feet, to which was afterward
added to the length twelve feet. It was dedicated the 20th of February, 1853.
The old frame building was sold, at public auction, to Col. J. W. Blake, for
$55, and moved one lot east, and converted into a dwelling.

   The membership of the church is 240. The Sabbath school is in an excellent
condition, with J. C. Suit as Superintendent; enrollment about two hundred and
seventy five. Present Pastor, N. L. Brakeman.

CHRISTIAN CHURCH.

   The Christian Church, of Frankfort, was organized by Rev. Lewis Comer, at the
house of John Horland, south of town, in the year 1830. The congregation held
religious services at different places, frequently meeting at the Court House,
until 1843, when a church building was erected at Frankfort. Notwithstanding the
church has labored under adverse circumstances, they have held their
organization intact ever since. At the time the church was built here, the
membership numbered about fifty, but soon swelled to 300.

    In 1872, the congregation erected a very neat frame building, fronting on
Jackson street. the. church is now in a growing and healthy condition, with one
of the best Sunday schools in the County. The present Pastor Is J.  M. Canfield.

THE CLINTON COUNTY BAR.

   The first court held in Clinton County was held at the house of John Ross, in
the town of Jefferson, on the 18th day and third Monday of October, 1830. This
was a Circuit Court, and there were present Hon. John R. Porter, Presiding
Judge, and Messrs. Samuel Mitchell and John Ross, Associate  Judges; also,
Samuel D. Maxwell, Clerk, and Charles J. Hanna, Sheriff.

   Thomas J. Evans was appointed Prosecuting Attorney for this term of court,
and was duly sworn into office.

   The first members Of the Clinton County bar, in the order in which their
names appear on the record, were as follows: W. W. Wick, A. S. White, Andrew
Ingram, Wm. M. Jenners, Thomas D. Baird, Aaron Finch, D. H. Patton and P. M.
Curry; one of whom, Mr. Wick, was a resident attorney.

   The next term of Circuit Court was convened and held at the Court House, in
Frankfort, October 17, 1832, with the same Judge presiding.

    Among the first resident attorneys were: James A. Maxwell, who located at
Frankfort, and was admitted to the bar in the year 1832; A. F. Mays located and
was admitted in 1834, and Lucien D. Griggs and Nathaniel Niles in 1838.

   The first "court docket," which contains a roster of the members of the bar,
is for the April term of the Clinton Circuit Court for the year 1836, and in
this docket, continued in use until the October term, 1843, the following names
appear in the roster as members of the bar at that time, and who were admitted
prior to the year 1836, vis.: John Pettit, R. A. Lockwood, S. C. Wilson, Z.
Baird, Daniel Mace, Lucien D. Griggs, George W. Taylor, R. C. Gregory and
Benjamin F. Ristine. It is probable, however, that some of the gentlemen were
admitted after the year 1836 and before the year is 1842, the record being a
blank concerning the date of admission.

   In 1842, at the October term of court, the following-named gentlemen were
admitted: Samuel A. Huff, Levi S. Dale, William Wright and Almand Thompson.
Joseph E. McDonald, now a member of the United States Senate from Indiana, was
admitted to this bar at the October term, 1843, as were also Senator Henry S.
Lane, Addison M. Crane, Frederick W. Thayer and Joseph F. Brown.

   At the April term, 1844, the following gentlemen were admitted: James F.
Suit, Esq.—resident attorney and father of Joseph C. Suit, who is a resident
member of the bar at this time—Robert Jones, Samuel D. Maxwell, also a resident
member, James N. Simms, who is still a resident member, Godlove S. Orth, A. L.
Robinson, H. W. Ellsworth, Daniel D. Pratt, John S. Patterson, James W. Dunn and
Horace P. Biddle.

   At the April term, 1845, the resident lawyer admitted to the bar was John M.
Cowan. At the October term of the same year, Patrick S. Slevin, N. R. Lindsay
and A. L Holmes were admitted.

   Those admitted at the April term, 1846, were Lorezo C. Dougherty, Joseph
Hocker and James A. Moore, all of whom were resident attorneys. James Forsee was
admitted at the October term, 1846.

   R. A. Lockwood and John B. Powers were admitted at the May term, 1848, and at
the next term, held in October of the same year, A. J. Boone, H. Hague, G. W.
Griffin, John W. Blake and E. H. Bracket were also admitted, none of whom lived
in Frankfort except John W. Blake.

   At the April term, 1850, William F. Lane was admitted, and, in October of the
same year, David Rhinehart became a member.

   William C. Wilson, Horace C. Carter, Nelson R. Smith, Hon. Leander McClurg
and Joseph T. Pressley were admitted at the April term, 1851, and Robert P.
Davidson and Washington Black were admitted in the following October.

   Under the new Constitution, which took effect in the year 1852, the following
gentlemen were admitted: Orvill Hamilton, Hon. Thos. J. Cason, Morris Done,
Joseph N. Sims, John M. La Rue, John Q. A. Perrin, Napoleon B. Taylor and H. B.
McCain.

   Since the court docket closing with the June term, 1853, there has been no
record of the names of members admitted with the dates of their admission.

   The following named gentlemen are resident members of the bar at this time:
James N. Sims, Esq., Hon. Leander McClurg, John Barner, Esq., formerly Clerk of
the Court, Hon. Henry Y. Morrison, Joseph C. Suit, Esq., Joseph Claybaugh, Esq.,
Samuel H. Doyal, Esq., Hon. Allen E. Paige, Jas. U. Gorman, Esq., Perry W. Gard,
Esq., Hon. James V. Kent, Esq., Dallas S. Holman, Esq., Samuel O. Bayless, Esq.,
John A. Merrick, Esq., Cicero Sims, Esq., William R. Moore, Esq. (at present
Prosecuting Attorney), Nathan P. H. Proctor, Esq., James E. Cowan, Esq., James
R. Brown, Esq., Hon. B. K. Higginbotham, Henry Gaddis, Esq., James W. Morrison,
Esq., John Kidd, Esq., Samuel Vanton, Esq., John Q. Bayless, Esq., James W.
Collins, Esq., and Abel Taylor Heavilon, Esq., of Jefferson, Ind.; also, E. C.
Parker, Esq., of Michigantown, and Marcellus Bristow, Esq., of Circleville.

    Hon. Truman H. Palmer was a member of this bar, and was engaged in the
practice until elected to the Judgeship of this district.

   The foregoing is doubtless incomplete in some particulars, but owing to the
fact that a roster of the bar was not kept after the year 1853 until recently,
the names of those admitted during that time cannot be obtained from any records
which can be made available.

   The Frankfort bar is justly celebrated for its number of efficient lawyers,
general integrity and ability, as well as for the fact that each individual
member is a quiet, amiable, liberal and refined gentleman In every sense of the
term. May its good name ever remain untarnished.

SECRET ORDERS.

CLINTON LODGE, NO. 54, F. & A. M.

   The Masonic fraternity of Frankfort formed their first Lodge by a
dispensation from the Grand Lodge of the State of Indiana, dated Dec. 23, 1843,
issued to Jacob D. Vandyke, as Worshipful Master; Win Winship, Senior Warden,
and James G. Choat, Junior-Warden, with their associates. A charter was issued
to the brethren on the 31st day of May, 1844, for the new Lodge, to be called
"Clinton Lodge, No. 54," with Jacob D. Vandyke as Worshipful Master; Lucien J.
Griggs, Senior Warden, and James G. Choat, Junior Warden.

   The first officers elected by the new Lodge were Lucien D. Griggs, W. M.;
Thomas W. Florer, S. W.; N. T. Catterlin, J. W.; Cyrus B. Pence, Secretary;
Daniel Parker, Treasurer: Joseph W. Johnson, S. D.; John A. Hoggart, J. D., and
Robert M. Watt, Tyler.

   For a long time the Lodge held its meetings in what was known as the "Garber
Block," on the north side of the public square.

    In the Summer of 1873, the Lodge built and handsomely furnished a large and
well arranged hall, at a cost of over $4,000. The new hall was publicly
dedicated by Grand Master Lucien A. Foote, on the 24th day of June, 1874.

    The Lodge now numbers ____ members. Its present officers are; P. W. Gard, W.
M.; N J. Gaskill, S. W; T. B. Frazier, J. W.; George D. Halliday, Treasurer; J.
M. Gentry, Secretary; S. O. Bayless, S. D.; William Ashley, J. D.; W. C. Heaton
and W. A. Colby, Stewards, and Robert Sims, Tyler.

    In addition to the two Lodges, there is a Chapter and Council: Clinton
Chapter, No1. 82, and Frankfort Council, No. 46.

SHARON LODGE, NO. 487, I. O. O. F.

    Sharon Lodge was organized May 12, 1875, by Grand Master D. B.
Shidler. The charter members were H. J. Webster, E. R. Johnson, John Mitchel, V.
B. Barnum and J. W. McClure. On the same night, as soon as the Lodge was
organized, there were ten persons initiated, viz: George P. gaddis, Samuel
Frazee, T. B. Moore, Simon Folk, B. S. Stook, O. P. Wagoner, John H. Girt, W. S.
Dukes, Lewis C. Dukes and W. C. Bartholomew.

   The first officers were E. R. Johnson, N. G.; John Mitchell, V. G.; Geo P.
Gaddis, Secretary; J W. McClure, Treasurer; V. B. Barnum, Conductor; Samuel
Frazee, Warden; T. B. Moore, I. G.; Simon Folk, O. G.

   The present officers are: W. C. Bartholomew, N. G.; B. S. Stook, V. G.;
Samuel Frazee, Secretary; Simon Folk, Permanent Secretary; John Mitchel,
Treasurer; V. B. Barnum, Conductor; G. C. Harbaugh, Warden; Daniel Venis, J. G.

   Present membership, 21.

KIRKLAND LODGE, NO. 299, I. O. O. F.

   This Lodge was instituted December 14, 1877, and chartered November 20, 1867.
The charter members were John Barnett, James L. Miller, Carter H. Smith, George
F. Purdy and Perry T. Gorham. The first officers were John Burnett, N. G.; Perry
T. Gorham, V. G.; Abner W. Smith, Recording Secretary; Carter H. Smith,
Permanent Secretary; George F. Purdy, Treasurer.

   In 1870, the lodge erected a brick hall, at a cost of $2,500. The membership,
at that time, was sixty-nine. At one time, it numbered 104. Two Lodges have
recently organized within six or eight miles, drawing heavily from their
membership, which, at present, is forty-seven.

   The present officers are Johnson Bogan, Noble Grand; James Niles, Vice Grand,
Robert V. Ball, Recording Secretary; Joseph M. Kinsey, Permanent Secretary: John
A. Kutz, Treasurer.

   Number of deaths, ten.

   Funeral benefits paid, $300.00.

ROSSVILLE LODGE, NO.  183, I. O. O. F.

   The charter members of this Lodge are J. J. Perrin, George Lydick, J. Q. A.
Perrin, Alex. Anderson and Lucius Nebeker.

   It was instituted on the 19th day of November, 1856, by J. H. Stewart, Grand
Master, George Lydick was the first N. G.; Alex. Anderson was the first V. G.
The following officers were elected and installed on the evening of January 27,
1857: J. Q. A. Perrin, R. Scribe; J. J. Perrin, Treas.; J. A. Merrill, Ward.;
William Jones, I. G.; N. S. Brown, R. S. to N. G.; William Baird, R. S. to V. G.

  The officers for the present term are as follows: For N. G., J. J. Hineberger;
V. G., J. Dawson; R. S. to N. G., J. C. Rogers; L. S. to N. G., James Carter; R.
S. to V. G., A. Morrison; L. S to V. G., J. Boyer, Con., W. L. Jackson; Ward.,
W. H. Moore; I. G., J. Snyder; R. S., T. Unger; L. S. S., A. Wetzel; Committee
on Claims, J. S. Moor, Fisher and W. E. Kauffman; R. Sec., T. K. Goble; Per.
Sec., W. E. Kauffman; Tress., S. B. Fisher. No. of members, fifty-four.

REBECCA LODGE, NO. 44.

   This Lodge was instituted February 9, 1870. The charter members were as
follows: J. W. James, Simon F. Glick, J. F. Witherow, John Crow, A. J. Saylors,
S. R. Crow, S. B. Fisher, Ann James, Fanny Glick, M. F. Witherow, Mary A. Crow,
Martha J. Ulm, Margaret Smith, Lucinda Jones and Wilson H. Ulm. The Lodge was
instituted by J. A. Wildman, Grand Master.

   Officers for the present term: J. C. Rogers, N. G.; Sally Jackson, V. G.; W.
H. Moore, Conductor; Mrs. Mills, Treasurer; J. Mills, I. G.; W. L. Jackson,
Ward.; L. A. Goble, Secretary.

   Present membership, forty.

FRANKFORT LODGE, NO. 108, I. O. O. F.,

was instituted February 19th, 1852, by D. D. G. M. W. K. Rochester, of No. 15.
The charter members were: Jacob S. Douglass, John W. Blake, J. A. Nunn, J. N.
Irwin, S. P. Miller and J. N. Rodman. Of these charter members only two were
residents of Frankfort, viz.; J. H. Douglass and John W. Blake, the others
having deposited cards for the purpose of instituting the Lodge, after which
they withdrew and returned to the Lodges to which they had belonged.

  On the evening of instituting the Lodge, the following were initiated: Jackson
Douglass, I. D. Armstrong, John H. Dunn, James Gaster, John B. Douglas, W. P.
Dunn and Norman Newton, and received all the degrees. Jackson Douglass, I. D.
Armstrong and James Gastor are yet members of this Lodge, and the other two
remained members until their work of life was done.

   The first elective officers were: Jacob S. Douglass, N. G., J. W. Blake, V.
G.; Jackson Douglass, Secretary; and J. D. Armstrong, Treasurer. Among the first
initiates after the Lodge was organized, and who are still members, are John
Barner, W. R. Carter, Enos Hoover, Isaac Cook and A. J. Dolson. The Lodge has
had three celebrations, and the orators were Schuyler Colfax, James H. Stewart
and Leander McClurg.

  The degree of Rebecca was first conferred by P. G. W. J. Dodd, of La Fayette,
in October, 1852. In the Spring of 1853, the Lodge hall was dedicated and an
address delivered.

   A member of the Lodge, who was compelled to work for his daily bread, bad the
misfortune, about ten years ago, to lose his eyesight, and the Lodge has been
paying him weekly benefits all that time, and will continue to do so as long as
he lives. Here is a devotion to the principles of Odd Fellowship worthy of all
commendation, and it shows the efficiency and excellency of the Order.

   There are a number of members who have been connected with the Order more
than twenty-one years, and their zeal for the cause has not abated. In January,
1857, the large hall, with all the records and fixtures of the Lodge, was
burned, and in this way early statistics are lost, and can never be regained.
The Lodge hall was rebuilt the next summer, and it was occupied until the year
1873, when it was considered too small to accommodate the Lodge any longer. The
Trustees sold it and built a new hall, which, for size, style and adaptation to
the work, will compare with any hall in the jurisdiction. The Trustees of the
Lodge, when the new hall was built, in 1873, were James H. Parris, David P.
Barner and Amos Thatcher, and the following gentlemen constituted the building
committee: James H. Parris, Isaac Cook and Washington Morris. John Barner
donated the privilege of building the hall on the second story of his spacious
block, and the right of stairway. He also put the iron roof on the hall—the roof
to be kept in repair at the joint expense of both parties.

   Great credit is due Mr. James H. Parris for the interest manifested by him in
attending to the contracting and superintending the erection of the new hall.

   The hall is 48 by 56 feet, and contains two very commodious anterooms. The
present officers are: George Bruse Norris, N. G.; J. A. Crebs, V. G.; Daniel De
Long Secretary; U. M. Palmer, Treasurer; Trustees, John Barner, Amos Thatcher
and David P. Barner.

WILLIS WRIGHT ENCAMPMENT, NO. 36,

was instituted in November, 1853, by P. G. M. James H. Stewart, of Delphi,
Special Deputy. The charter members were: Jackson Douglass, W. P. Dunn, J.
Gastor, J. McFarland, J. S Douglass, J. W. Blake and J. W. Dodd. On the evening
of instituting, John Barner, Harmon Collins, J. M. Cowan and Enos Hoover were
initialed, advanced and exalted.

   The first officers were: J. W. Blake, C. P.; Jackson Douglass, H. P., and J
McFarland, Scribe. They have fifteen P. C. Ps., and ten P. H. Ps. The present
number of contributing members is thirty-six, with $219.77 as their resources.
The present officers are: George Bruce Norris, C. P.; John Barner, H. P.; James
McGilvery, S. W.; John C. Dearth, Scribe; U. M. Palmer, Financial Scribe: James
Gastor, Treasurer.

ABIAH LODGE, NO 77, DEGREE OF REBEKAH.

is in good working order. The officers are: Daniel DeLong, N. G.; Mrs. E.
Heaton, V. G.; U. M. Palmer, Secretary; Mrs. Geo. W. Morris, Treasurer.

PLUMB LODGE, NO. 472, A. F. & A. M.,

   Located at Colfax, Clinton County, Indiana. Pursuant to a call of the
Worshipful Master of said Lodge, following brethren petitioners, to-wit: M. C.
McDowell, James Arrick, R. A. Clark, William Blacker, John Mitchell, James W.
Collins, Samuel H. Doyal, Joseph Boggs, William H. Shulse, Milton B. Waugh,
Robert Dunbar, J. P. Seawright, Elijah Campbell, met at their hall at Colfax,
Indiana, March 5, 1873, A. L. 5873. Bro. M. C. McDowell, W. M., named in the
dispensation, assisted by James Arrick, S W., R. A. Clark, J. W.; James W.
Collins, S. D.; S. H. Doyal, J. D., proceeded to open a Lodge of Master Masons
in due form, after which he appointed John Mitchell Secretary, and caused to be
read a dispensation, granting the above named brethren, and others not present,
permission to open a new Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in Colfax, Indiana,
under the title of Plumb Lodge, U. D., A. F. & A. M.

   After reading the dispensation, it was accepted, and the Worshipful Master
proceeded to appoint the following officers to serve during the life of the
dispensation, to-wit: William Blacker, Treasurer; John Mitchell, Secretary;
James W. Collins, S. D.; Samuel H. Doyal, J. D.; Joseph Boggs, Tiler.

   The Lodge flourished for two years under a dispensation, failing to procure a
charter the first year, on account of some mismanagement, and was continued
under dispensation until the meeting of the Grand Lodge in 1874. Our charter
reads, "Plumb Lodge, No, 472, May tbe 26th, A. D. 1874 and of Masonry five
thousand eight hundred and seventy-four." Since the organization of the Lodge,
it has made nineteen Masons, received eight by dimit, together with the thirteen
charter members, making in all forty members, of whom one has died, to-wit: S.
H. Doyal, March 13, 1875; ten have taken their dimits, three have been
indefinitely suspended, leaving a membership of twenty-six working Masons, who
are still trying to live up to the Masonic motto, "Faith, Hope and Charity." The
regular meetings of the Lodge are the first and third Wednesday evenings of each
month, the anniversaries of St. John, the Baptist, and St. John, the Evangelist.

   The present officers are, Samuel Frazer, Worshipful Master; Elijah Sparks,
Senior Warden; Milton B. Waugh, Junior Warden; John Mitchell, Treasurer; Bascom
B. Clark, Secretary; James W. Collins, Senior Deacon; Adam Clark, Junior Deacon;
M. C. McDowell, Tiler.

CLINTON COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

   The Clinton County Agricultural Society was organized at the Court House in
Frankfort, June 28th, 1872, with Enos Hoover, President; John Barnett, Vice
President; S. H. Doyal, Treasurer, and P. W. Gard, Secretary. Purchased
sufficient grounds, one-half mile south of the city of Frankfort, for their
yearly exhibition, and made the necessary improvements and arrangements for
holding the same during the month of September. Receipts of the First Annual
Fair for the Fall of 1872, $4,133.88, which amount was applied to the payment of
premiums, current expenses, etc. The exhibition of stock, produce, and the
display in the Floral Hall far exceeded the expectation of those in attendance.
November the 16th, 1873, the following officers were elected for the ensuing
year: Enos Hoover, President; Samuel Kyger, Vice President; John B. Greene,
Treasurer; P. W. Gard. Secretary; H. M. Aughe, Superintendent. Receipts of the
fair for l873 and from other sources, $5,190.32, said sum being applied to the
payment of premiums, current expenses and the improvement of the grounds and
buildings. Total expenses, $5,212.88. Expense in excess of receipts, $22.56.
Exhibitions in all the departments, were equally as good as the preceding year
In June, 1874, the following officers were elected: Enos Hoover, President;
Samuel Kygor, Vice President; H. M. Aughe, Superintendent; S. O. Bayless,
Secretary; John Barnett, Treasurer; Isaac Cook, Marshal. The receipts of the
fair for 1744 were sufficient to pay all premiums in full, and current expenses,
with $160.69 remaining in the Treasury. Officers of the Society for 1876 and
1877: John Snyder, President; David Slipher, Vice President; George Smith,
Treasurer; John Bayless, Jr., Secretary, and A. D. Kern, Superintendent, In
June, 1876, the County Commissioners bought the fair grounds of the Society, and
leased the same to the Society for the period of five years, at $800.00 per
year. On account of the extreme wet weather during the week of the fair in the
Fall of 1876, the Society were unable to pay its premiums on stock in full.

   The improvement that has been made in stock and produce has paid 90 per cent,
on all the stock invested. Prospects are flattering for the Clinton County
Agricultural Society in the future.
                                         JOHN BAYLESS, JR., Secretary

   The Middle Fork Union Agricultural and Horticultural Society, composed of the
counties of Clinton, Howard and Carroll, was organized January 4, 1872, at
Middle Fork, Clinton County, Indiana. The society, at the time of organization,
consisted of 100 life members, who elected twelve Directors-four from each county.

   The officers for the first year were John Wilner, President; A. F. Whiteman,
Vice President; John Rodkey, Superintendent; W. J. Floyd, Treasurer; Milton
Hanson, Corresponding Secretary, Oliver Gard, Recording Secretary.

   The following named gentlemen were the Directors elected from Clinton County:
Henry Baum, Isaac H. Storms, Thomas Avery and G. W. Unger. The Directors elected
from Howard County were Alex. Bishop, Samuel Schooley, John Morrison and Samuel
Rodkey. Those elected from Carroll County were John S. Cromwell, William
Everman, William Farlow and B. J. Wilson.

   The object of the organization, cannot be better expressed than by quoting
the preamble to their constitution, which was as follows:

   WHEREAS, in all ages, and in all countries, skillful and scientific labor has
been the foundation of material prosperity and greatness, and, as we believe
that exhibitions of nature, the work of art, and the achievements in science,
when conducted on the principles of justice and morality, tend to the
improvement of those who engage therein we deem it expedient, of order to carry
out these, convictions, to form an organization.

   The first, second and third annual exhibitions were all its most sanguine
friends anticipated. But time proved that 100 life members were too many. A
rainy week interfered with the exhibition, when they were compelled to pay a per
cent., and re-organize. A joint stock company then took charge of the
enterprise, paid off the indebtedness, and gained the confidence of the public.
Their last exhibition, from August 27th to August 31st, 1877, was a success. The
exhibition of horses was especially fine, and would compare very favorably with
other exhibitions of a similar nature throughout the State. The beneficial
results of this society are apparent in the endeavors put forth to improve the
varieties of stock. This improvement is manifested, not only in stock, but in
all the branches of industry represented at these exhibitions.

   The Fair Ground is beautifully located on Mr, A. F. Whiteman's farm, near
Middle Folk, Indiana. It is a beautiful grove, containing thirty acres, in fine
condition, abundantly supplied with pure water, and affording excellent trotting
facilities, having a good half-mile track.

   The present officers are B. J. Wilson, President; W. J. Floyd, Treasurer;
Andrew Catron, Superintendent; Oliver Gard, Secretary. The Directors for Clinton
County are G. W. Unger, Jacob Avery and Perrine Ticen. The Directors for Howard
County are W. J. Floyd, George Tapp, A. S. Marshall and W. F. Gordon and the
following gentlemen comprise the Board of Directors for Carroll County: B. J.
Wilson, William Farlow, Milton Beck and H. H. Lovell.

FRANKFORT BUILDING AND SAVINGS INSTITUTION

was organized January 5, 1872. The first Board of Directors were Isaac N. Davis,
Henry C. Atcheson, David F. Allen, William H. Ghere (deceased), Salem B. Town,
John B. Greene, Enos Hoover. Perry W. Gard and Timothy B. Cox. The original
officers were Isaac N. Davis, President; Joseph C. Suit, Secretary; Perry W.
Gard, Treasurer.

   The original amount of stock was $100,000, divided into 500 shares of two
hundred dollars each.

   The affairs of the Association, from the date of its organization, have been
maintained in a most prosperous condition.

   The present Board of Directors are DeWitt C. Bryant, John Barnett, Enos
Hoover, I. A. Seawright, J. B. Greene, P. W. Gard, D. F. Allen, D. P Barnes and
Jos. C. Suit. The officers are DeWitt C. Bryant, President; Joseph C. Suit,
Secretary; Perry W. Gard, Treasurer. Since the organization of this Association
the amount of collections and disbursements is as follows: First year.
$6,292.80; second year, $7,181.00; third year, $7,472.15; fourth year.
$8,354.50; fifth year, $8,411.35; total, $37,661.80.

   There have been 276 shares relinquished up to January 21, 1877
                                      DEWITT C. BRYANT, President
FRANKFORT, August 30, 1877.           JOSEPH C.SUIT, Secretary.

CONCLUSION.

   The early settlers of Clinton are fast passing away. One by one they are
being called from their terrestrial labors to the tables of immortal
refreshment, in the spirit land. Comparatively there are but a few left among
us. Peace to their martyrs' ashes.

   The great forests have been cleared away. The deer and Indian are no more in
our midst. The whistle of the locomotive is heard on every hand by day and by
night; school houses, churches and fine residences meet the traveler in every
direction. Peace and plenty every where prevail. Science and art bless the land,
and "onward" is the motto in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and
seventy-seven.


Additional Comments:

Extracted from:

Combination Atlas Map of Clinton County Indiana
Compiled, Drawn and Published From Personal Examinations and Surveys
By Kingman Brothers
1878

File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/in/clinton/history/other/historyo586gms.txt

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