"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

HENRY NEEHOUSE, farmer and stock-raiser, a native of Prussia, was born June 18, 1839, and is the son of Hendrick and Mariah (Bush) Neehouse, both natives of Prussia. Our subject had the advantages of school until he was fourteen years of age, when he left the paternal roof, in company with some of his friends, and came to America; he landed in New York November 2, 1854, and two weeks later came to Cincinnati, where he worked at job work, and the following summer worked in a brick yard. In the spring of 1855, he engaged as deck-hand on a flat-boat, running from Aurora to New Orleans, and after his first trip engaged in selling notions and jewelry; he began learning the blacksmith trade in 1858, but subsequently learned the stone-mason trade, at which he worked two years. In 1860, he began farming in Decatur County, where he remained six years, and in 1866 located in Windfall, Ind. Three years later, he purchased a farm of eighty acres, seven miles from Windfall, and in the spring of 1882 sold this and removed to Liberty Township, where he now lives; he owns 111 acres, fairly improved; he is a Democrat in politics, and has filled the office of Road Supervisor for five years. Mr. Neehouse was married, August 9, 1860, to Miss Mary Champ, born January 4, 1837. They had five children - James H., Lydia E., Uriah, Josephine and Mary E.; his wife died September 17, 1880, at the age of forty -three years, and Mr. Neehouse was next married, in January, 1851, to Mrs. Martha (Champ) Back, a sister of his first wife. Mr. Neehouse is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and his wife is identified with the Baptists.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

WILNA O. NELSON was born in Grant County, Ind., October 26, 1856, and is the only son of Milton Nelson, a native of Ohio, and Amanda (Thrasher) Nelson, a native of Indiana, and both of English descent. Milton Nelson was a farmer in early life, and later was in business at Independence, Grant Co., Ind., which he followed unti1 his death, February, 1870; his wife, Amanda, when but thirteen years of age, taught her first term of school, and after teaching her second term, she retired from this calling. She was a graduate of Fairview College, and is now a resident of Independence. Wilna O. Nelson, during his boyhood days, had access to the common schools, and when fourteen years of age began as an apprentice at house-painting, serving three years; he then left the parental roof and has since worked at his trade during the summer seasons; he, at the age of nineteen, finding his education quite limited, concluded to attend school at Greentown, which he did three winters, and in the fall of 1878 he began teaching, which profession he has since followed, proving himself to be a worthy and proficient tutor. Mr. Nelson was married, March 27, 1878, to Miss Josie Gallion, of Howard County, born November 16, 1857, and the daughter of Ezra P. and Matilda Gallion, both of English descent. Mr. Nelson is a Republican, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

DR. W. B. PAYTON was born in Kokomo, Ind., November 16, 1856, and was the third of five children born to L. B. and Isabel (Bailey) Payton. Mrs. Payton died when our subject was but six years old, but he remained with his father on the farm. They removed to Carroll County, Ind., in 1857, thence to Cass County in 1870, and after four years they returned to Carroll County, where Dr. Payton remained the most of the time for three years; he had access to the common schools until he was sixteen, after which he attended the Normal School at Logansport one term, at Walton two terms, and Delphi one term. In 1876, he began teaching, and was considered a successful tutor in Cass and Carroll Counties. The summer of 1878, he began to read medicine at his leisure, and in 1879 entered Dr. Bradfield's office at Deer Creek, Carroll County, as a student, and in September of the same year entered the Medical College at Ann Arbor, graduating with honors in the spring of 1851. He then began practice at Wheeling, Carroll County, succeeding remarkably well for a young physician, and in April, 1882, he located at Greentown and entered a copartnership with G. B. & J. T. Scott, the oldest physicians in the town. Mr. Payton was married, April 36, 1882, to Rachel A. Reed, of Cass County, Ind. She is the daughter of Michael and Sarah Reed, both of German descent. Mr. Payton is a Republican in politics, is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and his wife of the Lutheran Church.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

JOHN W. PHARES is a native of Shelby County, Ind., and was born January 6, 1837; he was the third of twelve children born to John and Sarah (Wicker) Phares, natives of Ohio and North Carolina. John Phares removed to Shelby County, Ind., when but twelve years of age, with his father, who was one of the pioneers of that county. He there spent his boyhood days and was married in 1831. For the last thirty years, he has been actively engaged in the ministry of the Missionary Baptist Church and is yet living in Shelby County. He and wife are now quite old, and have been members of the same congregation for about forty years. The subject of this sketch received a limited education in the common school, and later attended high school for some time, and in the winter of 1860 taught his first school; he worked the farm in the summer and taught school in the winter for ten years, and in 1873 removed with his family to Howard County, locating on his present farm of sixty acres; he has always been a member of the Republican party, and was elected Justice of the Peace in 1874, serving one term. Mr. Phares was married, November 21, 1861, to Miss Samantha Carmony, born October 20, 1841, and the daughter of John and Sarah A. Carmony, born October 20, 1841, and the daughter of John and Sarah A. Carmony, of Shelby County, Ind. Mr. and Mrs. Phares had five children - S. Emma, J. William, M. Elva, Anna F. and Espy Otto. Mrs. Phares died, April 23,1377, an earnest Christian woman, a member of the Union Baptist Church. Mr. P. is a prominent worker in the same church, being a Class-Leader and Secretary of the Quarterly Conference.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

C. POWELL, merchant, handling a full line of dry goods, notions, boots and shoes and groceries, and doing a good cash business of $10,000 per annum, was born in Fayette County, Ind., November 28, 1845, and is the son of John and Rebecca (Mappin) Powell, both natives of Kentucky. John Powell was a farmer who came to Fayette County near 1826. Here he lived a pioneer life, made a good home, and reared a family of seven children. He located in Liberty Township, Howard County, in 1857, where he lived for several years, when he moved to Howard Township, and one year later located in Greentown and superintended a farm of 116 acres, having accumulated about $20,000 worth of property. He and wife were prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and both died in 1866. Mr Powell was in early life a Whig; later he voted the Democratic ticket, but since the war had been a stanch Republican. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and received a fair education in the common schools. He was married, November, 1866, to Miss Malissa, E. Walker, of Howard County. She was born in Henry County, Ind., July 29, 1849, and is the daughter of William and Sarah (Templeton) Walker. Two children bless this union - Frederick G. and Mary Ethel. At the age of eighteen, he began teaching school, and farmed and taught seven years. He sold his farm in 1872, and came to Greentown, purchased property and built a new frame house. The following fall, he and his brother started a general store with a $3,000 stock. This partnership was dissolved when they sold out in 1882. Mr. Powell began business again in November, 1852, and we find him today in the best business room in the town. He was appointed Postmaster in January, 1873, which position he held until May, 1882. He has filled the offices of Town Trustee and School Trustee. He is a member of the Republican party, and he and wife are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

ALEXANDER C. ROGERS is a native of Warren County, Ohio. He was born October 8, 1831, and is the son of William and Hannah (Welch) Rogers, both of English descent. William Rogers removed from Warren County to Clinton County, when our subject was but a small boy, and here remained until his death. A. C. Rogers was the only son of a family of five children, and his mother supported them with her needle and by housework. When about fourteen years of age, Mr. Rogers went to live with A. T. Croesdale, a merchant of Highland County, Ohio. At the age of twenty, he entered a copartnership with his employer, and remained in this business seven years in the town of Samantha. He then abandoned this business and engaged in farming in the same county, and in 1871 removed to Howard County, locating on the farm where he now lives. He purchased 120 acres, fair1y improved, but has since erected a fine brick house, the best country residence in the township. He has been an active politician in the Democratic ranks, having filled the office of Assessor in Ohio, and is now Justice of the Peace, having been elected in 1879. In the spring of 1862, he joined Company A, Forty-eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry and was commissioned as First Lieutenant. This formed a part of the Army of the Tennessee. They were in battle at Shiloh, Red River, Lookout Mountain and Atlanta, after which they returned with Gen. Thomas into Mississippi. Mr. Rogers was promoted to the office of Captain in the fall of 1862, which office he held until he was discharged in July, 1865; he was married, January 20, 1850, to Miss Sarah J. Fleming, of Clinton County, Ohio, of English parentage. She died July 28, 1576, leaving a family of nine children. January 20, 1879, Mr. Rogers was married to Miss Martetia Davidson, of Howard County. They have two children - a son and a daughter. Mr. Rogers is an enterprising citizen, is a liberal supporter of all public improvements, and he and wife are prominent members of the Society of Friends.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

LEWIS SCHAAF was born in Bavaria, Germany, November 7, 1832, and is the son of Daniel and Phoebe Schaaf. His father was a miller, and in 1856 emigrated to America and located at Shanesville, Ohio, where he worked at his trade. A few years later he removed to Ragersville, Ohio, where he made his home until his death, spending his last days working a small vineyard of two acres. Our subject attended the common schools until he was fourteen years of age, and later learned the cabinet-maker's trade, working three years as an apprentice. In his youth he worked at the miller's trade with his Father, and at the age of seventeen came to America in company with a, younger brother, locating at Shanesville, Ohio. In 1856, he removed to Miami County, Ind., and ten years later bought a farm in Liberty Township, this county, where he lived until 1875. He then exchanged his farm for his mill property, where he has since been doing a good business at custom work. He started in life empty handed, but through industry and economy has acquired a good home. Mr. Schaaf was married in 1855 to Miss Eliza Roli, of Tuscarawas County, Ohio. She is a native of Switzerland; was born July 16, 1832, and emigrated to America with her parents in 1850. Three children bless this union - Augustus, Caroline and Mary A. Mr. and Mrs. Schaaf are members of the German Reformed Church.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

J. T. SCOTT, M. D., is a native of Darke County, Ohio, and was born in 1836. His parents, Charles and Sarah (Bloxsom) Scott, came to Grant County, Ind., in 1845. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and at the age of twenty-two began the study of medicine. He is a graduate of the Rush Medical College of Chicago, and began his practice in 1860 at Greentown, where he has continued ever since, except six months, when he practiced at Xenia, Ind. He has established a large practice in Howard County. In March, 1861, he was married to Miss Mary A. Davis, of Greentown. She was a native of Wayne County, Ind., and her parents were among the first settlers of Howard County, coming as early as 1847. Mr. and Mrs. Scott have had five children, two of whom are now living - Evert G. and Kate Adel. In 1876, Mr. Scott was Township Trustee, during which time the graded schoolhouse of Greentown was built and the iron bridge on the Wild Cat at Greentown. For the last twenty years, he has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church; has been Church Trustee for several years, and he is an Odd Fellow. His residence is the finest in Greentown. Dr. Scott is one of the enterprising men of Howard County, assisting in all measures of advancement and progress.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

GIDEON B. SCOTT, M. D., was born in 1838. His parents, Charles and Sarah (Bloxsom) Scott, in 1845 settled in Grant County, this State. Our subject taught school during his earlier years; in 1861, came to Howard County, and the following winter he enlisted in the Fifty-seventh Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry. After seven months of active, arduous service and weary marches, he was discharged in 1862 on account of disability. He then returned home and taught school two winters at Sycamore Corners. In the spring of 1864, having regained his health, he again enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and did post duty at Duck River. He was mustered out at Indianapolis and again re-enlisted in the One Hundred and Forty-second Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served until the war was over. He was Sergeant in the last two regiments. He commenced studying medicine before the war, while he was teaching. He attended the Rush Medical College at Chicago one term, and graduated at the Indiana Medical College at Indianapolis in 1871. He commenced practice in Tampico in 1868, and for the last eleven years has been practicing in Greentown. He was married, March 5, 1867, to Miss Tillie W. Lindley. They have had three children, one of whom is living. His wife died July, 1875, and in 1876 he was married to Miss Mary P. Lindley. Her parents came into this county in 1848, and were among the first settlers. Mr. Scott has been a member of the Society of Friends all his life, and has been a Mason since 1862. He is a member of the Republican party, and has taken an active part in politics in his own community and the country at large. He has now one of the finest residences in Greentown, and is one of its most respected citizens.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

WILLIAM R. SEAGRAVE was born in Henry County, Ind., in August, 1834. His parents, Tarver and Rachel (Rooble) Seagrave, were of English and German descent. Our subject came with his parents to Howard County in 1847. His father entered land and afterward laid out a part of the village of Greentown. William Seagrave was reared on the farm and worked at the carpenter's trade for two years before the war. April 18, 1861, he enlisted in Sixth Regiment Indians Volunteer Infantry. He was out three months, and was in a regular engagement at Garrett's Ford on Cheat River, and in some heavy skirmishes, the most notable one being that of Laurel Hill ; he was discharged at Indianapolis and came home in August, and the following November he again enlisted for three years, in Fifty-seventh Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He engaged with his regiment in the battle of Shiloh and siege of Corinth. He was discharged in 1862 on account of disability. May 14, 1864, he enlisted in the one hundred day service and served his time, being discharged December 17. Since the war, he has followed the carpenter's trade the most of the time. In 1865, Mr. Seagrave was married to Miss Lucinda Adams. They have had six children, three of whom are now living - Lua May, Tarver C. and an infant. Mr. Seagrave has been a member of the Christian Church for a number of years.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

JOHN W. SEGRAVE is the son of Tarver and Rachel Segrave, and was born in Ohio, in 1839. His father was a native of New Jersey, and his mother of Ohio. Our subject moved with his parents to this county in 1847, being then eight years of age. His father entered 160 acres of land near Greentown, and cleared and improved it until now it is one of the best farms in the township. John W. stayed with his father and assisted in clearing and improving the farm, until he was thirty years of age. They built a log cabin on the Indian trail running from Peru to the Wild Cat. They had but four neighbors, living within a mile of each other. The Indians passed their house frequently, but were very peaceable. Mr. Tarver Segrave, in company with three or four other men, walked to Fort Wayne to enter his land. In 1848, in connection with Mr. Jesse Osborn and C. O. Fry, he laid out the town of Greentown. Mr. Segrave lived on the land he entered until his death, in April, 1881. The subject of this sketch followed farming until August, 1862, when he enlisted in the Eighty-ninth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He was taken prisoner at the battle of Munfordsville, Ky., September 17, 1862, and was paroled the same day, and in a week he with the balance of his regiment was given a furlough of thirty days. Mr. Segrave was badly injured while in line of duty at Munfordsville, by over drilling. In the winter of 1862, he received an honorable discharge, and returned to Greentown, where he has remained ever since. March 15, 1866, he was united in marriage with Miss Sybila A. Scott, of Highland County, Ohio. They have had eleven children, four of whom are living - Rachel E., Emma J., Stella and James A. Mr. and Mrs. Segrave are members of the Christian Church. Mr. Segrave is now holding the office of Town Councilman the second term. He has led an active life, working hard toward the improvement of the township, always lending a helping hand to public enterprise. He is now running the only hotel in Greentown, and is a highly respected citizen. He had three brothers in the army - M. K., Luther S. and William R. M. K. Segrave, is still in the army, holding a Captain's commission.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

HENRY SHROCK was born in Holmes County, Ohio, February 18, 1845, and is one of twelve children born to Benjamin J. and Mary Shrock, both natives of Ohio, and of German descent. Our subject was small when his parents moved to Miami County, Ind., where he assisted his father on the farm, and had access to the common schools. At the age of eighteen, he began teaching, and taught his second term in Liberty Township, in 1866-67, having removed to this county in 1865, locating on eighty acres, where he now lives. He found this in its native state, and here began to improve his farm and build a log cabin. In 1881, he built a fine brick residence, and now has 120 acres of well-improved land, which he has accumulated through industry and economy. He began buying and shipping stock in 1869, and has been actively engaged each season since, and in the fall of 1878, he bought and shipped about 4,000 hogs. He is an active worker in the Democratic party, and has filled many of the minor offices of his township. Mr. Shrock was married in May, 1866, to Miss Lucinda Gerhart of Miami County, Ind., daughter of Michael and Margaret Gerhart, natives of Germany. Mrs. Shrock died November 7, 1875, 1eaving three small children - William, Philip and Harvey. He then married, in May, 1876, Mary Gerhart, his sister-in-law. They had two children - Arminda and Milton (both deceased). Mr. Shrock is a member of the Dunkard Church, and his wife belongs to the Lutheran denomination.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

N. D. STANBROUGH, born July 6, 1544, in Hamilton County, Ind.; is the eldest of ten children born to John and Lydia J. (Mills) Stanbrough. His parents were among the pioneers of Hamilton County, and there lived on a farm. John Stanbrough, after his father's death, took charge of the homestead farm, which he improved, and where he lived until his death, December 28, 1878, his wife having died in February, 1875. The subject of this sketch spent his boyhood days upon the farm with his father, receiving a common school education. At the age of eighteen, in August, 1862, he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and First Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry. His regiment was the Second Brigade of the Fourteenth Army Corps. He was in the battle at Milton, Tenn., Chickamauga and Mission Ridge. He was with Sherman on his march to the sea, and for sixty days his regiment was within the sound of musketry. He was always present at roll-call during service, and was with his company whenever it stacked arms, unless while out foraging, or on detached duty. He was honorably discharged July 1, 1865, having proved himself to be a brave and loyal soldier. He then returned to Hamilton County, engaged in the carpenter's trade at journeyman work for eight years, when he began contracting for himself. In February, 1875, he moved with family to this county, locating at Greentown, where he has since lived, actively engaged at his trade. He was married, February 24, 1869, to Miss Eltruda Hollis, of Hamilton County, Ind. She was born September 12, 1851, and is the daughter of Richard C. and Susan Hollis. Six children blessed this union - only one now living - Leslie Paul. Mr. Stanbrough is an active member of the Republican party, casting his first Presidential vote for U. S. Grant in 1868. He is a prominent member of the I. O. O. F., and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

SOLOM0N STONE was born in Franklin county, Ind., March 11, 1823, and is the son of Henry and Mary (Wi1fing) Stone, natives of Culpepper County, Va., and of German and Irish descent. His parents were married in Virginia, and soon removed to Franklin County, Ind., where they entered land on White Water, and built a log cabin. They remained until 1843, when they sold out and located in Rush County, where they purchased an improved farm. In 1857, they came to Howard County, purchased eighty acres of forest land, just north of Greentown, and here lived the remainder of their lives. Mr. H. Stone was a hard working man, reaping his grain with a sickle, and threshing it with the flail, while his wife for years spun from flax and wool, and wove cloth for her family. Mr. Stone was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and died in 1867, at the age of sixty-four. His wife belonged to the United Brethren Church. She died in 1857, at the age of eighty-two. The subject of this sketch was reared a farmer's boy, and received a limited education from the pioneer school. In 1847, he removed with his parents to Rush County, where he was married, October 17, 1844, to Mary Ann Hatfield, of Rush County. She is the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Cook) Hatfield, natives of Virginia. This family was among the early settlers in Rush County, where Mr. Hatfield died in 1853. His wife (now aged seventy-eight) still survives him, and resides with her children in Wayne County, Ind. Mr. and Mrs. Stone have had five children - John H., Marion T., Sanford (deceased), George W. and Elmer E. Mr. Stone farmed on rented land, and with the profits, $1,100, came to this county in the fall of 1857, and lived one year on a rented farm. In the meantime, he built a cabin and made a small beginning on the farm where he now lives. The family experienced many of the privations of pioneer life, and for years made their own clothing from flax and wool. They now have a good farm, well fenced and drained, and furnished with good buildings. His farm is well stocked with horses, cattle and hogs. Mr. Stone is a stanch supporter of Republican principles, and a member of the Masonic order, and he and wife are prominent members of the New Light Church.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

WOODSON W. THRASHER was born in Fayette County, Ind. December 11, 1840, and is the son of William and Elizabeth (Parish) Thrasher, of English descent. William Thrasher was a mechanic and farmer, and in 1862 enlisted in Company C, Twelfth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and after being out about three weeks was killed in battle at Richmond, Ky. His second son was in the same battle, and was taken prisoner, but was soon paroled, after which he joined his regiment and served for two years. The subject of this sketch enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and First Indiana Volunteer Infantry, at the town of Webes, and was mustered into service at Indianapolis. His regiment was in the Fourth Division of the Fourteenth Army Corps. Soon after enlisting, he was detailed as teamster of the company, and two months later was placed in charge as teamster in the supply train, and after the Chickamauga battle, this corps was re-organized, and the One Hundred and First Regiment was placed in the Third Division, at which time Mr. Thrasher took his musket and participated in the battle of Mission Ridge. He was then detailed again as teamster, and served until July, 1865, when he was honorably discharged. When Mr. Thrasher was but ten years of age, he moved with his parents to Grant County, where he assisted his father on the farm, and received a common-school education. He was married, in 1859, to Miss Harriet Main, of Grant County. She was born June 1, 1837. Three children bless this union - Ida, Lizzie and William L. After the war, Mr. Thrasher located near Greentown, and purchased forty acres of land. In 1869, he moved to Kokomo, and three years later returned to the vicinity of Greentown, where he has since lived. Mr. Thrasher is a worthy citizen, and an active worker in the Republican party.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

HENRY R. THRASHER was born in Fayette County, Ind., November 3, 1847, and was the fifth of nine children born to William P. and Elizabeth (Parish) Thrasher. Mrs. Thrasher is now living in the village of Greentown, having lost her husband in the battle at Richmond, Ky. Henry R. Thrasher, when he was three years of age, removed with his parents to Grant County, where he remained until the fall of 1864. He received a common school education, and at the early age of seventeen began to make his own living. For six years, he worked at whatever his hands found to do, during the time visiting a number of the Western States. He was married in 1870 to Miss Sophia Fry, of Howard County. She was born in Rockingham County, Penn., November 2, 1845, and is the daughter of Noah and Elizabeth Fry, of German descent. Five children bless this union - Noah, Charles, Frank, Della and Bertha. Mr. Thrasher soon after his marriage began farming, renting land for three years, when he bought forty acres west of Greentown. Three years later, he located on the Kokomo & Greentown pike, where he lived until the fill of 1882, when he removed to Greentown, and the following March engaged in the livery business, which he is still following. Mr. Thrasher, by labor and economy, has made for himself a home, and is now in comfortable circumstances. He is a Republican in principles, and is a worthy citizen in the community in which he lives.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

JOHN S. TREES is a native of Rush County, Ind., and was born June 5, 1838; he is the eldest son of John and Rhoda (Simmons) Trees, of German and English descent. His parents married in Rush County, Ind., and lived a pioneer life in that and Shelby County. In 1858, they removed to Howard County, locating on the farm where our subject now lives; here they toiled and improved their farm until they had a good home. Mr. John Trees died in May, 1874, at the age of sixty-two years. Mrs. Trees (aged sixty-nine) is still living, and makes her home with her children. Mr. Trees was in early life a Whig, and later a Republican, and his religious views were with the Methodist Episcopal Church. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and received a common school education, and February 10, 1858, he was married to Miss Fannie E. Floyed, of Shelby County, and the same year moved to this county, stopping with his father on the farm; he shortly after returned to Shelby County, where Mrs. Trees died. Mr. Trees then returned to this county, and assisted to him the home farm, and in December, 1859, he married Miss Mariah Hazzard, of this county. She died September 20, 1870, leaving four children - Rolla A., Denny M., Lizzie L. and Effie L. Mr. Trees was married to his present wife, Miss Alice Curlee, of this county, March 1, 1872. She was born in Johnson County. Ind., September 21, 1852. This union has been blessed with four children - Rhoda S ., Fred L., Susie M. and John G. Mr. Trees purchased a farm in 1859, and November 8, 1870, he removed to Kokomo, having been elected Sheriff of the county by the Republican party. After serving one term, he entered the grocery business, continuing eighteen months, and in the winter of 1881 he purchased the farm where he now lives. In 1863, he enlisted in Company E, Eleventh Regiment Indiana Volunteer Cavalry, forming a part of the Army of the Cumberland, and was engaged in battle at Columbia, Spring Hill, Crasked Creek, and December 15 went out to meet Gen. Hood, at Nashville, and was here struck in the right thigh by a minie ball. He lay all night on the battle-field, and the next morning was taken to Columbia Hospital, where his wound was dressed. A few months later, he was transferred to Jefferson Barracks, and later came home on a furlough. He was honorably discharged in June, 1865; he was compelled to go on crutches for nine months, and is a cripple for life. Mr. and Mrs. Trees are active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. Trees is a Republican in politics, and a member of the I. O. O. F.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

JESSE WARE, a retired farmer and old settler of Howard County, was born in Warren County, Ohio, in 1825, and was the son of John and Margaret (Roberts) Ware, natives of New Jersey. In 1833, he moved with his parents to Henry County, Ind., and in 1847, his father entered 240 acres of land in Howard County. At the same time Jesse entered 160 acres in Union Township, on which he lived eleven or twelve years; he lived on several different farms in the county until he finally purchased 200 acres east of Greentown; he also has twenty acres of timber land in Jackson Township. Mr. Ware has always lived a farmer's life; he has been a hard-working man, and has cleared over 100 acres of land in this county. Besides his farm land, he has a comfortable residence in Greentown, in which he is now living a retired life. Mr. Ware was married in 1846 to Miss Phebe Moon, of Henry County, Ind. By this union they had five children, three of whom are living - Sarah E., Mary J. and Sophia. Mrs. Ware died in 1857, and Mr. Ware was married to Lucinda Main. They had five children, only one of whom is living - O. P. Morton. Mr. and Mrs. Ware are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Ware has held the office of Supervisor several times.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

ANDERSON WILLITS is a native of Iowa, born May 24, 1838 ; he was the son of Charles and Hannah (Kirlin) Willits, natives of Ohio and Virginia. His father was of Welsh descent, and was reared on a farm in Wayne County, Ind., and there married about 1835; he moved to Iowa, where he farmed until 1846, when he returned to Henry County, Ind., and in the fall of 1848 he entered 120 acres of land in Howard County, and erected a log cabin. In 1860, he entered the mercantile business in Greentown, handling a general stock of goods. Here he remained the rest of life, except one year he was selling goods at Aledo, Ill. He died in April, 1872, and his wife followed in April, 1881. Mr. Willits was an enterprising citizen, and served as Township Trustee and Assessor. The subject of this sketch received a limited education in the common schools, and has always led a farmer's life. In 1872, he purchased his present place of 135 acres, moderately improved; besides he has good village property in Greentown. He has been a hard-working, industrious man, and has made a good home, and is a liberal supporter of all public enterprises. Mr. Willits was married March 11, 1857, to Miss Harriet J. Hazzard, of Howard County, Ind. The result of this marriage has been nine children, four now living - Dora E., Eva Leota, Charles O. and an infant. Mrs. Willits died March 30, 1883. She and her husband were both faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. Willits is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and is an active politician in the Republican ranks.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

WILLIAM WOODS was born March 20, 1820, in Wayne County, Ind., and is the second of ten children born to Benjamin and Alecca (Boon) Woods, natives of Kentucky, and of Irish and English descent. Benjamin Woods was reared on a farm near Waynesville, Ohio, and upon reaching manhood, removed to Wayne County, Ind., where he was married in April, 1819. In 1848, he came to Howard County, locating on the "Big Spring Farm", one and a half miles east of Greentown. He purchased 160 acres, on which there was a log cabin. He improved this farm and made a good home for his family. His house was used by the Baptists as a place of worship for twelve years. Mr. Woods was first a Whig, and later a Republican; he and wife were prominent members of the Baptist Church. June 29, 1577, Mr. Wood died, having survived his wife only four months. William Woods was reared on a farm and received a common school education. At the age of nineteen, he began teaching school. Later he studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1844, but soon returned to farming and teaching. In 1850, he came to Howard County, locating on the farm where he now lives. He started in a log cabin, but now has 204 acres of fine land, with good, comfortable frame buildings, which he has accumulated through labor and economy. Mr. Woods is one of the leading citizens; has held the office of Township Trustee, and has served as County Commissioner for a number of years, making an efficient officer. He was married, August 7, 1845, to Miss Mahala Burgoyne, born February, 1821, and the daughter of James and Mary (Minor) Burgoyne, of Dutch descent. Five children blessed this union, three of whom are living - Allie, Willard and Arthur. Mrs. Woods died March 3, 1859, and Mr. Woods was again married, February 24, 1860, to Miss Matilda Burgoyne, a sister to his first wife. They had five children, three now living - Ellsworth, Willie and Oscar. Mrs. Woods died March 1, 1872, and Mr. Woods married his present wife February 27, 1873 - Mrs. Nancy A. Morris, of Howard County.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

JEREMIAH YOUNG was born in England, August 9, 1841, and in his infancy his parents came to America. When but eight years of age, his parents located in Franklin County, Ind., where he was reared a farmer's boy. In July, 1861, he enlisted in the first call for three years' men, in Company F, Eighteenth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered into service at Indianapolis. Their first engagement was at Pea Ridge and lasted three days, after which they marched through to the Mississippi River, and on into Arkansas after Gen. Price, having skirmishes almost daily. In the spring of 1863, he was transferred to the Army of the Cumberland, and was at the siege of Vicksburg, after which he was transferred to the Army of the Gulf, under N. P. Banks, at Baton Rouge. Thence they went to Matagorda Island, where they stormed the fort, and captured all its occupants. In January, 1864, Mr. Young re-enlisted in the same company, and returned home on a veteran furlough, after which he joined his regiment at Washington. In August, 1864, he went into Shenandoah Valley, and September 19 engaged in battle at Winchester and Cedar Creek, where he was severely wounded in his left arm, by a minie ball. He was taken to the hospital at York, Penn., where he remained until November, 1864, when he came home on a thirty-day furlough to vote for President Lincoln. His furlough was extended thirty days, and June 8, 1865, he was discharged, after serving nearly four years. He returned to Franklin County, where he lived until the spring of 1883, when he removed to this county. He is a Master Mason, and an active member of the Christian Church.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

WILLIAM ZERBE was born in Schuylkill County, Penn., October 25, 1818, and is the eldest child born to David and Elizabeth Zerbe, both natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. David Zerbe was a millwright by trade, which he followed until 1841, when he removed with his family to Shelby County, Ohio, where he engaged in farming. Our subject, when seventeen years of age, began to learn the wagonmaker's trade, at which he worked two years, after which he worked in a ship yard, and later on the canal one season. The next two years he worked on a farm for a man at $75 per year, after which he removed to Shelby County, Ohio. He worked as a farm hand for a few years, until he was able to buy a team, after which he rented land and began farming. Later he purchased thirty acres and two town lots in Sidney, and continued working on a farm, except one summer, which was spent working with an engineer in locating the Bellefontaine & Indianapolis Railroad. In the spring of 1866, he moved with his family to this county, locating on the farm where he now lives, and redeeming a good home, and erecting good buildings. He started in life empty handed, and now has a good home of 160 acres fairly improved. He took care of his aged father and mother for a number of years. His father died in 1857 and his mother two years later. He was married in October, 1841, to Miss Mary A. Butcher, born February 22, 1821, in Lancaster County, Penn. Eight children have blessed this union - Sarah A., George, Mary E., Charles C., Robert D., John L., Clara T. (deceased), and William H.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

DANIEL ZOOK was born in Holmes County, Ohio, July 25, 1843, and is the son of John and Mary (Miller) Zook, both natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. His parents moved to Ohio when single, and were there married in 1841. John Zook was left a poor boy and was truly a self-made man. He came to Howard County in the fall of 1851, and purchased thirty-five acres of timber land in Liberty Township, erected a log cabin, and here made a good home. Mr. Zook died in 1876 and his wife in 1872. He and wife were prominent members of the Mennonite Church. Our subject was reared on a farm and received a limited education in the subscription schools. At the age of twenty-one, he began working for himself at job work, and after his marriage moved upon the farm where he now lives, finding it as nature had left it. Here he erected a log cabin, and began to improve his land, until now he has one of the model farms of the township. Mr. Zook votes the Democratic ticket, and is an enterprising citizen. He was married in the spring of I860 to Miss Elizabeth Schmucker, born in Holmes County, Ohio, in 1816, and the daughter of Christian and Susanna (Miller) Schmucker. Mr. and Mrs. Zook have had six children - Henry, John, Lewis and Albert (twins), Susanna and Catharine (deceased). Mr. Zook and wife are active members of the Mennonite Church.

"Counties of Howard and Tipton, IN" published in 1883 by F.A. Battey & Co., Chicago, IL
Liberty Township

FRANK N. STRATTON, of the firm of Herron & Stratton. attorneys at law, with offices in the Ruddell building, Kokomo, Indiana, is one of the promising young lawyers of this place and is at this writing (September, 1898) a candidate for the office of prosecuting attorney on the Republican ticket. From a recent reference to him in one of the local papers, we clip the following: "Mr. Stratton has the right sort of stuff in him for this office. Without means, and solely by his own efforts, he has fought his way from the sawmill, the clearing and the farm to the front rank at our bar. An untiring student, he has so educated himself by the 'midnight oil' that there is perhaps no one in the county better versed in the wide field of literature, and especially in the domain of history, sacred and profane, and upon questions of law his opinion is respected by the oldest members of our bar. His experience with men and affairs has been very wide and varied. He has been engaged in many cases, criminal and civil, some of them of local celebrity.”

Mr. Stratton was born in Madison, Indiana, September 18, 1860, and is a son of Francis J. and Hester A. (Donnellon) Stratton, the former a native of New York and the latter of Ohio. Of their family of five children, four sons and one daughter, Frank N. is the only one now living. Francis J. Stratton was for some years in the United States secret service, until he was severely wounded, and then practiced medicine in Jeffersonville, Indiana, and for a time was surgeon in the penitentiary. He had formerly practiced in Preble County, Ohio, having moved to Ohio from New York, and it was in Preble County that he was married. On account of poor health, having been wounded through the lungs, he was obliged to resign his position as surgeon in the penitentiary, and through Secretary of State William H. Seward he received a good position in the patent office at Washington, D. C. He died there in 1863. In the early part of the Civil war he offered his services to the Union but because of his wound was unable to pass muster and was not accepted. Under these circumstances he did the best he could; he was active in relieving sickness and suffering among the soldiers in and about Washington. While in the detective business he succeeded in putting a stop to a large amount of work done by the Stephen Wing gang of counterfeiters, on the St. Lawrence River, in Canada, capturing the entire gang. The mother of our subject, after remaining a widow for some time, became the wife of Samuel E. Stratton, who at the time of their marriage was county commissioner of Howard County. By him she had one child, who died in infancy. She died September 18, 1893, at the age of fifty-eight years.

Referring to the grandparents of Frank N. Stratton, we find that his grandfather Stratton was a native of Vermont, a farmer by occupation, and for many years a resident of New York State, where he died. He was a strict Covenanter. His family was composed of three children. The maternal grandfather of our subject was Nelson Donnellon. He was born in Virginia, the son of an aristocratic planter of the " Old Dominion," who was a native of Ireland. Being refused by his father the permission to marry the girl he loved, he left home and, though without money, married the girl and took her with him to the wilds of Ohio, their settlement being in Preble County, where he practiced medicine and accumulated considerable property. He afterward moved to Indianapolis and subsequently to Anderson, and at the latter place died near the age of eighty years. He joined General Lew Wallace in the defence of Cincinnati during the war of the Rebellion, belonging to the organization known as the " Squirrel Hunters." The Strattons were intimate with the Seward and Lincoln families.

Coming now to the immediate subject of this review. Frank N. Stratton, we record that when he was six years old he was brought by his mother and stepfather to Howard County, and in Monroe township, this county, he grew to manhood, spending his youthful days in working on a farm and in a sawmill. He attended school for a short time at New London and later spent six months in a business college. In 1892 he began the study of law, and was admitted to the bar in August 1894, and began the practice of his profession in Kokomo, having formed a partnership with Joseph C. Herron, under the firm name of Herron & Stratton. p125 Mr. Stratton and his family reside at No. 222 Fort Wayne Avenue, Kokomo. He was married, March 8, 1888, to Miss Otilie Shellsmith, daughter of Ferdinand and Kate Shellsmith, and they have three sons, Frank, Frederick and Ferdinand. Mrs. Stratton at the time of her marriage was a teacher in the public schools of Indianapolis. Her father was a musician by profession, and the whole family are musically inclined.

Fraternally, Mr. Stratton is identified with the Improved Order of Red Men.

Copyright William F. Stratton
From: Biographical and Genealogical History of Cass, Miami, Howard and Tipton counties, Indiana, Chicago : Lewis Pub. Co. 1898.