JOHN CAIRNS, farmer and justice of the peace, Jackson Township, born in Ripley County, Ind., May 13, 1824, is a son of William and Maria CAIRNS, natives of New Jersey, settling in this county in 1818, entering the Southeast quarter of Jackson Township, upon which he located, being one among the earliest settlers. Subsequently he relinquished one-half of his land, and after residing on the other half about three years sold it, and removed into Ripley County, near Pennsylvaniaburg, , where he resided till 1828. Here turned to this county and settled on the southeast quarter of Section 30. In 1831 he traded his land for land in Section 31, where his son, our subject, now resides, and here he spent the remainder of his life. He died May 20, 1848, aged sixty years. He was twice married. His first wife died in 1827, by whom he had four children, three grew to maturity: Harriet, married Joseph REGAN, and resides in Franklin County, Ind.; Elizabeth, married Joseph MEISTER, is now deceased, and John. His second wife was Mrs. Mary Engel. She died March 25, 1868, aged nearly eighty-eight years. Mr. CAIRNS was a painter by trade, which occupation he followed several years in his native State. After settling in Indiana he gave his attention principally to farming, also doing some work as a mason, at which, in laying brick and stone, he was a proficient workman. He was a member of the Lutheran Church for many years. John CAIRNS, Esq., was the youngest child of the family, and here grew to manhood. October 12, 1843, he was united in marriage with Jane ANDERSON, born in 1821, a daughter of Claudius and Jane ANDERSON, natives of County Tyrone, Ireland, becoming settlers of this county in 1831, where they resided till death. He died January 11, 1874, aged eighty-three years. His widow died January 25, 1881, aged eighty years. They had ten children, six now living: Jane, Sarah, William B., George, John and Robert. Squire CAIRNS and wife have had eight children, four of whom survive: Mary Ann, wife of Henry KRETZMEIR; Jane; Caroline, wife of Edward O'Brien, and Robert. Mr. CAIRNS taught school seventeen winters all in three school districts. He has served as justice of the peace twenty-four years, being first elected in 1859. This long period of service by re-elections, exhibits a popularity and a confidence won which is rarely found. He has also held the office of township trustee, and other minor offices. After the death of his father, Mr. CAIRNS took the home place. To the original farm he has added by purchase till it now embraces 147 acres, upon which he has erected good buildings and made many improvements. He has been a member of the Lutheran Church forty-six years, and his wife of the Methodist Episcopal Church many years.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
JOHN CALLAHAN, the oldest resident of Lawrenceburgh City, was born in Jefferson County, Ky., November 16, 1798. His parents, James and Elizabeth (PHILLIPS) CALLAHAN were natives of Virginia, where they were reared and married, moving from that State to Kentucky about 1780 to 1790. They were parents of fourteen children, two dying in infancy and nine growing to maturity and marrying. Our subject is now the only surviving member of the family, his father having died in 1832, in his sixty-third year, his mother in 1841, in her seventy-third. His parents were of Irish and Scotch descent. In February, 1806, the family moved from Jefferson County, Ky., to this locality and located above Lawrenceburgh, where the father died. He was a farmer by occupation, and though not wealthy was considered in good circumstances. John CALLAHAN, our subject, spent his early years on the farm engaging in agricultural pursuits til about 1837. In the meantime he took up the river traffic as a business, and this he continued successfully for many years, giving up the trade at the breaking out of the civil war. His first shipments were chiefly live-stock, but later were of pork and flour, New Orleans being his chief market. From that city he once came on foot and twice by barge to this place. Since 1860 Mr. CALLAHAN has not been actively engaged in business, but has lived in quiet retirement in the town, which has been his home since his boyhood. In his business enterprises he has always been quite successful, and though having started in life at the age of sixteen years, and with not a dollar's worth of assistance, he has accumulated a handsome competency for his support in his declining years. Mr. CALLAHAN was married, April 13, 1823, to Mary SWIFT, a native of Massachusetts, and daughter of Paul and Eliza SWIFT, natives of the same State, the family moving to this county about 1820. Her father was a hatter by trade, and conducted that business in Hardinsburgh for several years. There were six children in the family, Mrs C. now being the only one surviving. Mr. and Mrs. CALLAHAN had two children, both of whom died in infancy, both the have reared ten foster children -- all nephews or nieces but one. Their names are as follows: Henry SWIFT, William CALLAHAN, James CALLAHAN, Eliza SPOONER, Cynthia A. CALLAHAN, Margaret FRENCH, Ann FRENCH, John SPOONER, Anna LEE, and Lily B. CALLAHAN. The first five named of the above (except William CALLAHAN) are deceased. These children Mr. and Mrs C. have reared as their own, and at their maturity have given them assistance in founding homes for themselves. Mr. CALLAHAN is one of the most highly esteemed citizens of Lawrenceburgh. He was for more then twenty years officially connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he and Mrs. C. have been active members for forty seven years.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
JOHN N. CALVERT, merchant, Clay Township, dealer in general merchandise, Dillsborough, Ind., is a native of Macon County Mo., where he was born October 24, 1844. His parents, John and Sarah (SANDERS) CALVERT, were both natives of England, the former born in Cumberland, County, June 9, 1794 the latter in Lanarkshire September 23, 1815. They were married in Toronto, Canada, July 8, 1837, and shortly afterward moved to Dearborn County, Ind.; thence to Macon County, Mo., and subsequently returned to Dearborn County, Ind., where she still resides. They were the parents of six children, viz: Lowery, James, Mary J., Lydia K., Fannie and John N., our subject. He was educated at Aurora, Ind., and when about fourteen years of age, went in the store of T. and J. W. Gaff. of Aurora, as a clerk, with whom he remained until 1862, then worked for Jesse Younker about one year in the hay business; after this he clerked for John N. Milburn, in a jewelry store at Aurora; for Samuel Triswell in a grocery store; for William LEIVE in a jewelry store; and in 1869, went to Dillsborough, Ind., and began business for himself, which he has since continued. He was married near Dillsborough, December 5, 1872, to Annie LEASURE,, who was born in this county, April 24, 1852, and was a daughter of Elias and Sarah (EVANS) LEASURE. Mr. CALVERT has had born to him four children, viz: Lucy, (deceased) John, (deceased) George and Benjamin.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
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CHARLES R. CAMPBELL, Miller Township, was born in Franklin County, Penn., August 3, 1815, and in Antrim Township, on the fork of the Conococheague Creek, grew to the age of sixteen years. In 1831 his parents, Allen K. and Esther R. (BERRYHILL) CAMPBELL, with their seven children, came to Ohio and stopped near Fort Harrison about ten months, and in the spring of 1832 came to this locality and purchased land on Georgetown Ridge. He subsequently sold out and moved to the present site of Guilford, where he died February 20, 1837. His widow died in December 1865. They reared seven children, four now living. Our subject remained with his parents til 1833, and then began boating on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, continuing till 1849, in which business he was fairly successful. He then engaged in railroading for a time, and in 1857, in partnership with James H. Skatts, erected the store building in Guilford, now occupied by Robert Hargitt and took up merchandising, which he continued till 1863-64 with excellent success. After that Mr. CAMPBELL purchased a farm, which he cultivated till 1884, when he sold out and purchased his present home. He was married, February 26, 1846, to Catharine EWBANK, of this county, daughter of Thomas EWBANK, and early English settler of Dearborn County. They had eight children, four of whom are still living: Thomas D., station agent and telegraph operator, Boylston, Ind.; Mary, wife of William D. HAMMEL, Lexington, Ind.; Charles G., bridge repairer, west end "Big Four" Railroad, and Lizzie, who is still at home. Mr. CAMPBELL has always been an active business man, and he takes a keen interest in passing events. He is of Presbyterian faith religiously, a strict temperance man and an enthusiastic Democrat.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
CLARK CANFIELD, painter, city of Aurora, was born near Aurora September 11, 1842, and obtained common school education. His father, Newton CANFIELD, was born in Boone County, Ky., June 7, 1813. His mother, Susan (BAKER) CANFIELD, was born in Wilmington March 28, 1816. They were married April 26, 1835. The father was a stone mason by trade. Clark followed farming up to 1876, since then, to 1881, was engaged in the grocery business. In 1881 he began painting and has since followed that trade. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company I, Eighty-third Indiana Volunteer Infantry, serving his country until May, 1865. He was married, December 27, 1866, to Miss Diannah OLNEY, who was born in Illinois December 3, 1843. By this union one child - Hamilton A. - has been born. His wife died February 13, 1875. He married, August 17, 1876, Miss Sallie GRIFFIN, who was born January 1, 1843. By this marriage one child, Perry P., was born. In 1881 Mr. CANFIELD was elected councilman from the Third Ward, and has since been re-elected. He is Post Commander of John A. Platt Post No. 82, having been elected in 1884. He is also a member of Dearborn Lodge No. 442, F. & A.M., and the Methodist Episcopal Church.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
ISAAC CANNON, of Aurora, a native of Delaware and a soldier of the Revolution, settled here at an early day. He had married and English lady of rare and elegant accomplishments, a member of the famous Bathurst family of England. His patriotic devotion to the cause of Independence had reduced him from affluence to poverty, and forever separated his accomplished wife from her English kindred. His exposure in the service of his country had impaired his health and ultimately paralyzed his limbs.. He came West, hoping to improve the future of his family, and landed his little flat-boat, containing his wife, children and worldly goods, after a weary journey from Pittsburgh, at the mouth of Hogan Creek, in 1812. He lived more than a quarter of a century in a humble cabin on Holman's Hill. While able to walk to the schoolhouse in sight of his home he taught the neighborhood school, but for many years his enfeebled health confined him to his room, where he instructed a few pupils in the hight mathematics. He survived his wife many years, and died in 1839. A literary work recently published, and claimed as one of the works of imagination of our day, is founded exclusively on the vicissitudes of his fortunes. This venerable patriot, scholar and Christian gentleman was the oracle of his neighborhood, beloved and venerated; only an extended history would do justice to his memory.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
JOSIAH CHAMBERS, of Aurora, was born in November, 1807, near Steubenville, Ohio. His father's family moved to Virginia, from whence young Josiah started West to try his fortune, and at the age of fourteen he began to work on a farm near North Bend, Ohio. He soon went to Cincinnati to live with Mr. Isaac White, father-in-law of Rev. T.M. Eddy. Here his religious career commenced. He united, at the age of sixteen, with the Methodist Episcopal Church, at what was then termed Brimstone Corner. On the 7th of February, 1827, he united in marriage with Miss Martha Jane HOWARD. In 1830 he was employed by Judge Short, near North Bend, and soon after he rented the farm, and each fall, for four or five seasons, took his produce down the river on a flat-boat. During one trip he met with a serious accident, which rendered him unfit for that business. Without a dollar in money, and depending upon his growing crops and farm produce, he bought a store on Dry Ridge, near Cheviot, Ohio, and took into partnership Reuben Rogers. At this time his family consisted of John an Mary, now Mrs. F. WYMOND, having buried three children. In 1838 he moved to Wilmington, Ind. There he bought out the store of T.John Taylor for $200 or $300. In 1840 he sold to Daniel Edwards, to whom he had sold his former store, and moved to Aurora. He was now worth about $1,000. His health was so poor that he thought it was probable he would soon die. A deep seated cough and bleeding at the lungs had reduced him considerably. He rallied in health, and buying a new stock of goods, he entered upon a career of great prosperity. His cognomen of captain was acquired during the years of 1841 to 1844, when he owned, together with Mr. William Glenn, an interest in the steamer "Fashion," a packet running from Cincinnati to Madison; Mr. Glenn was captain, Mr. Levi Stevens was clerk and occasionally Mr. CHAMBERS acted as captain. About 1844 or 1845 he entered into partnership with Levi Stevens, the name of the firm being J. CHAMBERS & CO. In 1851 it was changed to CHAMBERS, Stevens & Co., Taking John CHAMBERS and W. F. Stevens into the firm. Soon after the death of John CHAMBERS, which occurred June 21 1856, Frank WYMOND bought an interest and became a member of the firm. The firm entered into the wholesale trade at Cincinnati in 1857, Mr. Theodore Shotwell becoming a member in 1858. Josiah CHAMBERS was a man of very decided character, the most prominent feature being devotion - first to Christ and next to business; a man of single aim, namely, success in whatever he undertook; naturally a gentleman, kind, prudent, patient, full of tact; he conducted all his affairs on religious business principles, unswerving integrity and candor; a man of great energy and untiring industry, it seemed almost impossible to discourage him; he adopted right and righteous counsels and adhered to them rigidly and with a faith unshaken through all the vicissitudes of business; he rigidly adhered to his business rules, would enter into no business speculations whatever, and to this he owes in a great measure his success in times of financial pressure. His death occurred March 25, 1876.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
GEORGE W. CLARK, farmer, Manchester Township, born near Cincinnati, March 5, 1824, is a son of Jedde and Mary (BARKER) CLARK, natives of Newport, R.I., who, in 1822, immigrated to Ohio, and settled in Hamilton County, near Cincinnati, where they resided till the fall of 1824, when they removed to Indiana and settled in this township on land now owned by H. Elinghouse on Section 4, where he resided till his death in 1856, aged seventy-two years. His wife survived him, and died at her son's (George W. CLARK), in 1876, aged eighty-six years. They had twelve children, five now surviving: Catharine, wife of David DURHAM, residing at Seymour, Ind.; Keturah Jane, wife of Mr. BOWEN, residing in Iowa; George W.; William S., residing at Moore's Hill; and Phebe Emily, wife of John E BOES, residing in Butler County, Ohio. Mr. CLARK was a ship carpenter by trade, and followed that business in Cincinnati, where he helped to build the first steam boat that ever went down the Ohio River. After settling his family on the farm above mentioned he still continued at this trade in Cincinnati, walking from his home in Manchester to Cincinnati in the morning, and then performing a half day's work that day. This feat he performed several times while working in the city; the clearing up of his farm from the woods, and the general farm work being performed by his sons an hired men for several years, until becoming advanced in age, he returned to his farm. He and his wife were active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for many years. George W. CLARK grew to manhood brought up to farm labor. In 1852 he was united in marriage with Lurinda WICKS, a native of this county, born December 18, 1825, a daughter of Silas and Martha (AUSTIN) WICKS, he a native of Long Island, N.Y., and she of Vermont. They came to this county when young, in 1818, were married here, and lived here through life. He died October 31, 1880, and she December 31, of the same year, aged respectively, eighty-five and eighty years. Mr. WICKS and his brother, Melankton WICKS, at above date, 1818, entered the northeast quarter of Section 30, Manchester Township, Silas taking the north half of the quarter section, commenced clearing up his farm, cutting the first stick ever taken from that land. He was the father of twelve children, five now living: Gilbert, residing in Davenport, Iowa; Albert, residing in Shelby County, Iowa; Platt, residing in Shelby County, Iowa; Clark, residing in Nemaha County, Neb.; and Lurinda. Mr. Clark and his wife have had two children: Fabius M., a resident of Topeka, Kan., and Feronia, who married Henry CONGER. She died December 19, 1873. Mr. CLARK is a carpenter by trade, which business, in connection with farming, he followed several years. He purchased the place where he now resides in 1852. He has since added more land by purchase, until he now owns 229 acres; has erected new and commodious buildings, with other improvements, now constituting a pleasant farmer's home. Mr. CLARK has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for thirty-three years. His wife was, with her parents, members of the Baptist Church, but since their death she has united with her husband in the Methodist Episcopal Church.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
WILLIAM J. CLEMENTS, farmer, Sparta Township, was born near Baltimore, Md., January 14, 1828. His parents were Charles and Rachel CLEMENTS, natives of England and Maryland. He was married in Sparta Township, March 9, 1859, to Emeline, daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth CARBAUGH, who was born in this county January 20, 1836. In March, 1861, Mr. CLEMENTS moved on his farm, which he had purchased in 1860, and where he has since resided. He owns eighty-eight acres of land, well improved. They have had born to them six children, viz: Elizabeth L., Charles H., Zadie D., Emma F., Minne J., Maggie A.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
GEORGE W. COCHRAN died at his home in Covington, Ky., in 1884 aged seventy-three years. It may be said that Mr. COCHRAN was the original builder of the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad, during the building of which he often made trips in his carriage from Cincinnati to St. Louis. By his energy the road was built after much opposition from business men. He purchased 30,000 acres of land along the line of the road and adjacent to it, and laid out several towns and named them after his friends. The town of COCHRAN was named after him.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
CAPT. JOHN R. COLE, farmer and stock dealer, Washington Township, is a native of Dearborn County, born in Wilmington, Dearborn Co., Ind., March 16, 1824; his parents, Samuel and Elizabeth (JOHNSON) COLE, were born in Montgomery County, Va., the father in 1797, and the mother in 1801. They came to Indiana, in 1815, and were married in 1819; he was a blacksmith by trade, but in th e latter part of his life was engaged in farming. He was also a local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and died February 24, 1854; his widow united with the Methodist Episcopal Church over sixty years ago, and resides now with her son Samuel D. COLE, upon Section 14, and is an active, intelligent old lady. In 1842, Mr. John R. COLE, engaged in business with E.G. Herron, in Hartford, and continued up to 1849, since which time he has been a farmer, stock raiser and dealer. He was married December 13, 1848, to Miss Sarah E. PUGSLEY (daughter of John and Mary PUGSLEY), a native of Ohio County, Ind., born in Union Township, March 6, 1828; to them have been born three sons: John S. October 25, 1849; Seymour S., May 13, 1854, and Charles P., January 15, 1860; John S., married Miss Jennie WORLEY, who lived only a short time, his second marriage was December 19, 1871, to Miss Jane SANKS. He and Charles P. are located as agriculturists, in the fertile Laughery Creek Valley, four miles from the Ohio River; Seymour S., was married December 2, 1880 to Miss Abbie, daughter of Will F. and Mary A. (SCOTT) STEVENS, a native of Aurora. He is a member of the firm of Chambers, Stevens & Co., dealers in general merchandise. He is also an inventor, and has patented a number of useful articles. His ably written manuscripts for agricultural and stock journals, are always instructive and interesting. Mr. John R. COLE is a skilled worker in wood, and is seldom equaled as a manipulator of agricultural implements, but his greatest tact is displayed in his ability to judge of the respective parts which go up to make up the perfect horse. To him, probably more than any other man, belongs the credit of the improvement of the stock of horses in Dearborn County. At an early age, he evinced good judgment in management of horses, and was when quite yount, placed in charge of the famous old racer "Chief Justice," which he controlled until the death of this noted animal. Mr. Cole has at different times kept such horses as most tended to improve the quality of the stock in his native county. Among them, there being the representatives of such families as the Messengers, North Kentucky's, Crowders, Blue Bulls, Stock Bridge Chief, Abdallahs and Denmarks. Mr. COLE was township trustee for three years. He was a member of the Indiana Legion for four years,, and held the responsible position of captain of a company. He is a member of Hartford Lodge No. 151, F. & A.M, and with his wife, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. COLE'S parents, John and Mary (SMITH) PUGSLEY, were natives of Duchess County N.Y., the father born in 1775, mother in 1784. they were married in 1812, and immigrated to Ohio County, in 1823. The father died in 1849; he was an esteemed neighbor, an amiable and intelligent gentleman, and acknowledged to be one of the best citizens of Ohio County. The mother died at her son-in-law's, Mr. J.M. STEWART, , near Danville, Montgomery Co., Mo., March 25,1871.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
HIRAM J. COLE, farmer, Clay Township, was born in that township, Dearborn Co., Ind., January 1, 1839. His parents were Isaac T. and Ann (WINTRO) COLE, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, respectively; former born in Greene County, Penn., October 20, 1806, the latter in Warren County, Ohio, April 4, 1809. David and Polly COLE, and Adam and Mary WINTRO were the grandparents. The parents were married in Warren County, Ohio, and from thence, in about the year 1834, moved to Dearborn County, Ind., and purchased and settled on the same farm on which our subject now lives, and afterward resided there until their deaths, the mother passing away November 16, 1863, the father February 8, 1883. Their children were John, James E., Harvey T., Mary L., Martha, Hiram J., Rebecca A., Samuel, William H., David, Sarah J. and Laura E. Hiram J., our subject, was brought up a farmer, and he has engaged in that pursuit during the greater part of his life. He received a thorough common school education in the district schools, and then attended for some time the Moore's Hill College, after which he turned his attention to teaching school in winters, and working at the carpenter's trade in summers for a number of years. In 1858 he went to Boone County, Ky., where he was married December 23, 1860, to Margaret E., daughter of John A. C. and Martha (CONNLEY) ADAMS. she was born in Boone County, Ky., January 8, 1843. After his marriage he settled near Verona, Ky., where he remained until 1864, engaging in farming and teaching school. From thence in that year he moved to Dearborn County, Ind., and settled on his father's farm, where he remained about three years, then removed to Boone County, Ky., residing there until December 1883, at which time he removed to Dearborn County, Ind., and settled on his father's farm of 145 acres, which he at present owns. They had three children, viz: Dora D. (deceased), Denton A. (deceased), and Nora E.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
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RALPH COLLIER, farmer Manchester Township, was born in Pittsburgh, Penn., October 7, 1819. He was the eldest son of John and Jane (HODGSON) COLLIER. His grandfather was also John COLLIER, who was a native of and lived and died in England. He was a local Methodist minister and a contemporary of Rev. John Wesley. John Collier, the father of our subject, was the only son, and was born in England in 1775. In 1817 he came on a prospecting tour to America, visited Dearborn County and returned to England the same year, then a single man. He was married in 1819, and accompanied by two sisters, Mrs. Ann HANSELL and Mrs. Jane CONFORTH, and their families, with a number of other persons from the immediate neighborhood, all of whom settled in Dearborn County in the autumn of 1819. By way of contrasting the facilities for travel between then and now, it may be stated that when John COLLIER came to this country, in 1817, he walked over the mountains, and in company with a fellow traveller came in a skiff from Pittsburgh to Lawrenceburgh. On his return to England he walked all the distance from Tanner's Creek, Dearborn County, to Philadelphia. John COLLIER died at his home on Tanner's Creek in 1846, aged seventy-two years. Jane COLLIER died in 1858, in the seventy-first year of her age. Two sons and two daughters (Mrs. Ann H. HALL and Mary J. CHAMBERLAIN), still survive. Ralph COLLIER was an infant in his mother's arms when he came to Dearborn County, and enjoyed only such educational advantages as the country at that time afforded. By his own exertions principally he fitted himself to teach, and was popular as a teacher. He taught under the old regime, when subscription schools were in vogue: His wife, is a daughter of Reuben and Betsey L. (GOODWIN) TRUE, natives of Maine who settled on the farm adjoining the one on which Mr. COLLIER now resides. After his marriage, which occurred October 8, 1840, he began life for himself, so to speak; at present he owns 100 acres of excellent land, well improved. Ralph and Mary D. COLLIER are the parents of ten living children, namely: George G., now a resident of Missouri; John T., William G., R. Frank, S.P. Chase, Clara J., Mary L., Sebra E., Harriet B. S. and Susie E. Mr. COLLIER is a member of the Methodist Protestant Church, with which he has been connected about forty years. He is a Republican in politics. His father before him was a Whig in political principle.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
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SAMUEL H. COLLINS, M.D., physician and surgeon, Lawrenceburgh, is a native of Massachusetts, born in 1851, and son of Rev. Dr. Samuel A. COLLINS, who, for several years, was pastor of the First Baptist Church, of Cincinnati. His mother was Mary F. COVINGTON. Dr. COLLINS received a classical education at the Dennison College Granville, Ohio, graduating in 1874. He began reading medicine in 1873, entered the Miami College, of Cincinnati, in 1874, passed the Cincinnati Hospital in 1875, and in the following year took his diploma. From 1876 to 1878 he practiced his profession at Westwood, a suburb of Cincinnati, and in August of the latter year went to Memphis to practice during the yellow fever epidemic, serving in the National Board of Health, on duty along the Gulf of Mexico and the Mississippi River. In 1881 he located in Lawrenceburgh, where he has since conducted a very successful practice. In 1883 he formed a partnership with Dr. M.H.Harding, which continued till the death of the latter in 1885. He is an active member of the American Public Health Association, and of the Indiana State Medical Society, also member and secretary of the Dearborn County Medical SOciety. Dr. COLLINS was married in 1879, to Miss C. E. MYRICK, of La Grange, Tenn., daughter of Edward N. MYRICK, and they have two children: Lena L. and Mary E.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
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GEORGE B. COLT, Sr. engineer, of Lawrenceburgh, was born in Covington, Ky., September 9, 1830. His parents were John D. and Frances (MILLS) COLT, natives of Connecticut, and Maysville, Ky., respectively. The father, when quite young, went to sea, and grew up to a sea-faring life. Prior to 1830 he had become a steamboat captain, and was plying on the Ohio River. He was married to Miss MILLS at Cincinnati, and not long thereafter they removed to a farm at Lyme Landing, in Switzerland County, Ind.., thought the husband continued his vocation as a captain of steamboats, plying at different times on the rivers Ohio, Upper Mississippi, Tennessee, and Cumberland. His death occurred at St. Louis, Mo., while engaged in the river trade. Two sons and a daughter were born to this union, the mother of whom died at Lawrenceburgh, Ind., in the winter of 1866. George B. COLT, Sr., grew up in the city of Louisville, (to which place the family removed not long after the the death of his father), where schooled. He in early life learned engineering, embarking on the steamboat "Empress," which was then plying between Louisville and New Orleans. He followed engineering on the river for a number of years, and then and thereafter followed the same business, though with stationary engines, being employed at Patriot, Cincinnati, and at Lawrenceburgh. On the 26th of January, 1856, Mr. COLT was united in marriage with Miss Aurelia HUBBELL, daughter of Richard and Martha E. (FISHER) HUBBELL, the parents being natives- the father of Seneca County, N.Y., and the mother of Orange County, Va., and both families early settlers in th e vicinity of Petersburgh, Ky., where Mrs. COLT was born February 15, 1837. Martha E. HUBBELL died in 1871, and her husband, Richard S. HUBBELL, died in 1874. To the union of George B. COLT, Sr. and Aurelia HUBBELL have been born Ralph, Robert H., George B. Martha F., Gertrude, Mary, Annie, and Jennie M. Gertrude, Mary and Annie are deceased. Both parents are identified with the Presbyterian Church, and the husband, in politics, is a Democrat. They are esteemed and respected citizens and kind neighbors.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
JOHN D. COLT, engineer, of Lawrenceburgh, a son of John D. and Frances (MILLS) COLT, whose history is given in the sketch of George B. COLT, was born in Switzerland County, Ind., April 18, 1832. He received his schooling in his native county and at Louisville, Ky., and like his brother, in early life learned the occupation of an engineer, starting first on the steamboat "Sam Cloon," then engaged in the Cincinnati & Nashville trade. He continued his occupation on the river until the breaking out of the civil war, having become an experienced and expert engineer, and having run on the waters of the Ohio, Mississippi, Tennessee, Cumberland, Red and other rivers. On the breaking out of the war, Mr. COLT enlisted in Company K, Ninety-first Indiana Volunteers, serving for nearly three years, and participating in the battles and skirmishes in which the command was engaged, and finally was discharged on account of disability. Since his return from the United States service, Mr. COLT has been engaged principally as a stationary engineer. In politics he is identified with the Democratic Party.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
JOHN COLUMBIA, Lawrenceburgh, now one of the oldest residents of that city, was born in Fayette County, Penn., October 20, 1799. His parents, William and Susanna (JONES) COLUMBIA, came from Pennsylvania with their children in 1800, and located in Hamilton County, above Cincinnati, where they resided many years, and where his father died. Here our subject passed the years of his minority. At the age of twenty he married Sarah CHAMBERS, of York State, daughter of James and Lydia CHAMBERS, and soon after he came to this county and purchased eighty acres of Government land, beginning work on his own resources. In October, 1824, Mrs. COLUMBIA died leaving two children, on of whom is still living - Julia Ann, wife of Jacob MILLER, of Sparta Township. March 31, 1825, Mr. COLUMBIA was married to Sarah SHEAD, daughter of WIlliam SHEAD of York State, and six children were born to them, two now living: Rebecca (RADSPINNER) and George C. Mr. COLUMBIA added fifty acres to his original purchase, now owning 130 acres of good land. In 1843 he was elected county commissioner for a term of three years; served as justice of the peace fifteen years, and as township trustee for several years, being one of the old and venerable land-marks of Sparta Township. Mr. COLUMBIA'S second companion departed this life March 9, 1873 and he has since resided with his son, having long since retired from active services.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
GEORGE C. COLUMBIA, son of John COLUMBIA, recorder incumbent of Dearborn County, was born in 1835. He was reared on the farm of this, his native county. In 1861 he enlisted in Company A, Seventh Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served three years. He was taken prisoner at the second battle of Bull Run, paroled and returned to his regiment, and participated in some of the most important battles of the war. He received his discharge September 20, 1864, returned home and resumed farming. He was elected county superintendent of schools in 1872, serving three years, and in 1878 was chosen county recorder, being re-elected to the same office in 1882. Mr. COLUMBIA was married in 1877 to Nettie CHURCHILL, daughter of Julius CHURCHILL, and the have one child living - Emma. Mrs. COLUMBIA passed away October 26, 1881. In politics Mr. COLUMBIA is a stanch Democrat, and as a public officer is above reproach or criticism.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
HAMILTON CONAWAY, farmer, Clay Township, and old and highly esteemed pioneer of Dearborn County, was born in Clay Township, December 25, 1812. His parents, Robert and Edith (WEATHERS) CONAWAY, were both natives of Virginia, the former a son of John and Rachel CONAWAY, who were natives of Ireland and Wales, from where they immigrated to the United States in a very early day, and settled in Virginia. Their children were John, Daniel, James, Simon, Eliza and Robert, the latter the father of our subject. He, when a young man, emigrated from Virginia to Kentucky, where he and the above Edith WEATHERS, were united in marriage, and from thence came in a very early day to Dearborn County, INd., where they afterward resided until death. They were the parents of eight children, viz: Rhoda, Preston, Harriet, Hamilton, Parthena, Robert, James, and Simon B. Hamilton, our subject, was brought up as a farmer, but in later years turned his attention to the mercantile business at Guionsville, this county, which he pursued for a number of years, beginning as early as 1839, during which time, and also afterward, he held the office of justice of peace for about fourteen years. About 1855 he began the practice of law, which he has continued more or less since. He also has engaged in flat-boating on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers during a number of years of his younger life, beginning as early as 1832. He and Miss Harriet LEMON were united in marriage in Clay Township, this county about 1840. They had born to them two children, viz: Eliza and ROber. This wife died about 1856, and he subsequently married Elizabeth E. HARPER, by whom he had born to him four children, viz: John S., Charles, Ralph P., and Alhama E. Mr. CONAWAY is a man of excellent character, and is highly respected by all who know him. He owns 160 acres of fine land in Clay Township, Section 29, on which he resides; also owns 280 acres in Coffee County, Kas.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
SIMON CONAWAY, merchant and postmaster, *Clay Township, was born in Ohio County, Ind., October 6, 1835. He is the eldest of five children born to John and America (WILSON) CONAWAY. He was bought up as a farmer, and pursued that occupation until 1860, in which year he opened up a general merchandise store at Guionsville, which he has since conducted. He was married at Guionsville, in 1865 to Arena C. THATCHER, from whom he was divorced, and December 2, 1881, married to Mrs. Amanda SMITH, by whom he has had born to him two children - twins - viz: America A. and one who died in infancy. Mr. CONAWAY was appointed postmaster of Guionsville office in 1872, which he has since held.
*Clay Township and Guionsville is in Dearborn County
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
ELIAS CONWELL, died at Napoleon, Ind., in 1862, aged seventy-three years. He was a native of the State of Delaware, and removed to Aurora in 1819, erecting the building at the corner of First and Main Streets, said to be the first mercantile house established in Aurora, and in it he kept the postoffice for eight years. His house was the resort of politicians and others, and his estimable lady, a daughter of Charles TATEM of Cincinnati, made their abode the seat of refined hospitality. For a quarter of a century before his death, Mr. CONWELL was a resident of Napoleon. Esther CONWELL, the wife of our subject, was born in Delaware in 1797, and died at Aurora in 1882.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
A.D. COOK, proprietor of the Lawrenceburgh Machine Shop, Lawrenceburgh, was born in Germany in 1850. He came to America, with his parents, when a child, and grew up in the town which has ever since been his home. He was educated in the Lawrenceburgh public schools, and in his youth learned the tinner's trade in which he continued exclusively, till about 1882. He then began operations as a machinist and has gradually increased his business till the present time. In 1881 he invented "Cook's Patent Well Strainer" and began the manufacture of the same, and the article, which is of unquestionable merit, is gradually coming into general use. In 1884 he took out a patent for a strainer to be used in driving tubular wells, and these with others he is manufacturing in large quantities. His establishment is making fair progress and is destined, in the near future, to become on of the important institutions of Lawrenceburgh. He manufactures pumps of superior quality, also tubular well fixtures, and does all kinds of repairing, operating about fifteen workmen. The shops occupy three large rooms on Walnut Street, and are receiving a liberal patronage. Mr. COOK was married in November, 1882. to Miss Anna HASSNER, who was born and reared in this community - a daughter of Tony HASSNER, now a resident of Versailles, Ind. In the business interest of Lawrenceburgh, Mr. COOK takes quite a prominent place, and with his energy and business tact will, no doubt, soon be the peer of any of his contemporaries. He is chief of the fire department and takes a keen interest in the general welfare of his adopted town.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
F.W. COOK/KOCH, Lawrenceburgh, one of the older business men of that city (now retired), is a native of Bremen, Germany, born April 30, 1816. His parents, Frederick William and Margaret COOK were highly connected in the old country, some of his relatives possessing large fortunes. He learned the tinner's trade in his native country, and followed the same there until 1851, when he immigrated to the United States to seek his fortune in "the land of Uncle Sam." He landed at New Orleans, where he resided not quite one year. working at his trade for a Frenchman, who defrauded him of most of his earnings. He then went into business for himself, at Carleston, La., but about one year later sold out and moved to Lawrenceburgh, where he has ever since resided. He conducted a successful hardware and tinware business up to 1877, when he turned the stock over to the management of his son, and retired from active business life. Mr. COOK was married in his native country to Anna BÖTTIER, a farmer in Germany. She and Mr. COOK have always labored hard and honestly, and are wholly entitled to the comfortable circumstances in which their life long labors have placed them.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
JOHN F. COOK, dry goods merchant, Lawrenceburgh, was born in Germany, in 1847, son of F.W. COOK (or KOCH). He was brought to this country by his parents, and educated in the Lawrenceburgh schools. In 1867, he began the clothing business, which, in connection with dry goods, has ever since continued, except one year, in the hardware trade. In 1868 he married Anna E. VOGEL, daughter of George P. VOGEL, and they have two children - Frederick J., and Elsie. Mr. COOK carried an elegant stock of dry goods, dress goods, velvetines, etc., and enjoys a full share of the general patronage.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
W.F. COOK, Lawrenceburgh, dealer in hardware, stoves, tinware, galvanized cornice, etc., was born in Lawrenceburgh in 1860, and grew to maturity in his native city in whose public schools he was educated. When about fourteen years of age he began learning the tinner's trade, and in this capacity he was employed till 1882, when he assumed charge of the entire business. He carries a full stock valued at $3,000 to $4,000, and has a liberal share of the general patronage in his line. He is a young man of good business qualifications and is bound to succeed.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
THOMAS W. COTTINGHAM, merchant and blacksmith, Wilmington, was born near Moore's Hill, in Sparta Township, March 24, 1838. His parents, Caleb T., and Jane (MITCHELL) COTTINGHAM, were natives of Maryland, his father born in 1805, mother in 1812. They were married December 25, 1835, and raised seven children. Their parents moved to this State in 1823. Mr. and Mrs. COTTINGHAM were members of the Baptist Church. He was a farmer, and was killed by a falling limb November 2, 1867, the mother died in 1877. Mr Thomas W. COTTINGHAM , was raised on a farm until eighteen years of age, at which time he went to blacksmith trade and started in business in 1876. He married Miss Lucy LENOVER, April 20, 1865. She was born in Dillsborough, October 10, 1845. By this union were born three children: Anna T., Minnie S. (born November 17, 1867, died June 20, 1884), and Ordell. Minnie S., was the wife of Edward M. CONGOR, and Mr. C., is raising his grandchild, Edna P. CONGOR, who was born June 1, 1884. Mr. COTTINGHAM has been a resident of Wilmington since February 25, 1867. He is a member of Dearborn Lodge No. 536, I.O.O.F. The entire family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was elected township trustee in 1882.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
JAMES P. COULTER, master car-builder, Ohio & Mississippi railroad shops, Aurora, is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Philadelphia May 29, 1835, where he received a common school education. His parents, James and Jane (MOORE) COULTER, were natives of Ireland; the former was born October 21, 1797, the latter October 10, 1796. They came to America in 1821, and located in Philadelphia, where he worked at his trade, bricklayer and stonemason, until his death, which occurred June 24, 1846, and the mother followed August 10, 1860. James P. learned house carpentering when fifteen years old, and followed the same for a livelihood up to 1863, when he entered the Chicago & Alton Railroad shops as a carpenter, working one and a half years in that capacity, then was placed in charge of part of the work as gang foreman. In 1873 he took charge of the car department on the Springfield & Illinois Southeastern Railroad, serving there for three years and nine months, until the Ohio & Mississippi purchased the road; then was transferred to Aurora, Ind., and given charge of the main road and branches, 690 miles in all. December 9, 1853, Mr. COULTER was married to Miss Catharine A. ROAN, who was born at East Greenville, Stark Co., Ohio, October 29, 1834. They are the parents of the following named children: Emma J.M., Ida E., Mary A., George P., and Ella M.C. He is a member of Aurora Lodge No. 51, F. & A.M.: Aurora Chapter No. 13; Aurora Commandery No. 17, and of the Indiana Consistory, at Indianapolis, and of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
THOMAS E. CRAIG, M.D., physician, Manchester was born in Glenville County, Canada, March 24, 1836, a son of John and Margaret CRAIG, he a native of the north part of Ireland, and she of Canada . Mr. John CRAIG was born in 1802, and immigrated to Canada with his parents about 1820, where he subsequently married and settled as a farmer, as one of the pioneers, the country there being mostly a wilderness, very sparsely settled, and here he resided until near the close of his life. In 1871 he sold his farm and visited his son, Dr. T. E. CRAIG, of Dearborn County, Ind., and in the fall of the same year went to Cass County, Mo., where several of his children were then living, where he died in October, 1872. His widow still survives and resides with her son. They had nine children, five now surviving _ Thomas E; Elizabeth, wife of Dr. CUNNINGHAM, of Los Angeles, Cal.; Samuel E., a resident of Oregon; John A., a resident of Missouri, and William H., a resident of Holden, Mo. Dr. Thomas E. CRAIG, the subject of this sketch, after completing his studies in the common schools, entered the grammar school of Kemptville, where he entered upon a course of study preparatory to entering college. From this school he entered Victoria College at Coburt, where he spent two years; thence he entered the medical department of Toronto University, at Toronto, where he spent four years, graduating in 1864. In January, 1865, he came to this county and formed a partnership with Dr. W.H. Terrell, for the practice of his profession at Manchester. This partnership was dissolved in the fall of the same year, Dr. Terrell moving away, Dr. CRAIG continuing his practice here. Dr. CRAIG was united in marriage, July 26, 1866, with Miss Hattie McMULLEN, daughter of John and Mary Ann McMULLEN. By this union they have two sons: Carlton Sims, born February 22, 1869, and J. Moray, March 2, 1874.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
DANIEL H. CROZIER, farmer, Hogan Township, resides upon Section 20, the old home, where he was born June 10, 1855. His parents, John and Angeline (WILSON) CROZIER, were born in Miller Township, father January 10, 1809. He was a farmer and flat-boatman. They raised a family of twelve children. He served as representative one term. All through life he was a hard working man, and was highly respected by all who knew him. He died January 2, 1882, and his wife April 17, 1881 -- Universalists in faith. Mr. Daniel H. CROZIER was married April 9, 1879, to Miss Agnes L. BAINUM, daughter of Mr. William BAINUM, who as born May 15, 1857. By this union four children: Blanche L., Gracie A., Franklin D., Ethel B. Mr. CROZIER is a member of Dearborn Lodge No. 536, I.O.O.F., and Wilmington Lodge No. 158, F. & A.M. Mrs. CROZIER is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
MARGARET (ELDER) CROZIER, Hogan Township, resides upon Section 23 and owns 160 acres. She is the widow of David D. CROZIER to whom she was married December 15, 1874, and by whom she had four children: Edna, Alma, Maud and Carrie. Her husband was a farmer, and a member of Wilimington Lodge No. 158, F.& A.M. He died July 11, 1883. Mrs. CROZIER'S parents, L.G. and Jane (RECORD) ELDER, were natives of Maryland. Her father was born in 1800, and died in November, 1876; her mother died in November 1878. They were both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
THOMAS CURTIS, of Center Township, was born near Yorkshire, England, in 1792, and immigrated to this country in 1810; removed to Dearborn County in 1824, and settled in Center Township on the farm that his son, Joseph D. CURTIS, subsequently lives on. He was a man of extraordinary gifts. Early in life he connected himself with the Baptist Church, and in the year 1825 was ordained to the work of the ministry, and continued to labor until the time of his death, which occurred in 1843. He was a man possessed of great power as a pulpit orator, and there are many citizens of the present day who will remember his power; a man who will ever be remembered for his many acts of charity, and for all his labors in the church. He never mad any charge or received any recompense, and no man in his day possessed more power and influence for good with the early pioneers, who had learned to honor him for the many noble traits of his character.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp
JOSEPH D. CURTIS, farmer, Center Township, was born in the same on Section 17, January 9, 1826. His parents were Thomas and Elizabeth (ADAMS) CURTIS, the former being for years one of the most prominent and talented ministers in the Baptist Church in the West. A sketch of him will be found above. The mother was born July 18, 1790, and the marriage was celebrated in New York State in 1816. She died May 31, 1873. Our subject was married October 18, 1849, to Miss Armida RISE, who was born on Hogan Creek in Manchester Township, November 9, 1831. By this union four children have been born, namely: Cell H., born October 13, 1850, now in Indianapolis; E.H. born October 15, 1852, now in Atlanta; Henry W., born September 26, 1856, now in Kansas City; Mamie C., born March 1, 1865, now Mrs. R.E. CHAFFIN, at Chester, Ohio. Mr. CURTIS united with the Baptist Church in 1849, and his estimable wife in 1848. They have been consistent members ever since. He is one of the church trustees. He has been school trustee and reporter for the agricultural department at Washington City for years. He has a fine body of land, consisting of 148 acres all under good state of cultivation.
HISTORY OF DEARBORN AND OHIO COUNTIES, INDIANA-1885
SUBMITTED BY: Jackie DeCamp