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

ROBERT DUNGAN is the fifth of six children born to William and Elizabeth (Dawson) Dungan, both natives of West Virginia and of English descent. His parents came to Indiana in an early day, locating in Fayette County, where Robert was born December 15, 1834. He remained with his parents until he was twenty-one years of age, working on the farm and attending the district schools. He began working at the plasterer's trade when he was fifteen years of age, and his first work was to plaster the Fayette County Court House. He came to Howard County in 1860 and located in the village of Tampico. Here he opened a general store, and in connection with this bought grain and wood. In the spring of 1871, he came to Kokomo and is at present working at his trade. Mr. Dungan was married in the spring of 1851, to Maria J. Halsey (deceased), a native of Ohio. Two children crowned this union, Laura and Alice, both deceased. He was married, April 13, 1857, to Sarah A. Halsey, a sister of his first wife. They have had four children - Martha C. (deceased), born July 12, 1858; Sornitia B. (deceased), born October 28, 1860; Robert E., born December 31, 1861, and one infant (deceased). He and his son Robert E. are both engaged working at the plasterer's trade, and are contracting very extensively. His son is also an expert at his profession. Mr. Dungan cast his first vote for the Democratic party, but is now one of the most active workers in the Republican ranks.

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

JAMES F. ELLIOTT is a native of Preble County, Ohio, was born May 6, 1840, and is the son of S. and Mary (Hornaday) Elliott, both natives of North Carolina, and of Irish descent. His parents moved to Grant County in 1848. Here the son worked on the farm until 1860, when he left home, and employed his time teaching and attending school at Logansport, Ind., until the fall of 1861, when he enlisted in Company I, Eighth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, as a private. This regiment formed a part of the Army of the Southwest, and later of the Army of the Tennessee. The first battle he engaged in was at Pea Ridge, Ark., and afterward he participated at Magnolia Hill, Jackson, Miss., Champion Hill and Black River Bridge. Finally, during the siege of Vicksburg, Mr. Elliott was shot through his right arm by a musket ball, causing the amputation of his arm on the fifth day after he was wounded. He remained in the hospital at Evansville for two months, when he came home on a furlough. Late in the fall of 1863, he made an application for a discharge, which was granted him. He then began teaching - going to school at intervals - until the fall of 1865, when he entered the sophomore class in Asbury University, where he graduated in the classical course in 1868. He then began the study of law, and, during the winter of 1868-69, he attended the law school at Ann Arbor, Mich., and in the following April he came to Kokomo, and entered the law office of C. N. Pollard as a student, remaining the rest of the year, during which time he was admitted to the bar. In January, 1870, he began the practice of law in Howard County, and, being am active Republican, the next fall he was elected Prosecuting Attorney, and was reelected in 1872. He has been actively engaged in his practice ever since in civil courts. He was married, in 1870, to Miss Sarah Conarroe, of West Elkton, Ohio, and daughter of Caleb and Anna (Carter) Conarroe. Mr. and Mrs. Elliott have two children - Mary D. and Earl C. Mr. Elliott is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and he and his wife are both active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

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

ANDREW ELLIS was born in the village of Economy, Wayne Co., Ind., September 17, 1841. His father, Samuel Ellis, was of English, and his mother, Abigail Key, of English and German descent. Both were natives of East Tennessee. Soon after their marriage, they immigrated to Indiana, and were among the early settlers of Wayne County, locating at Economy, where the father followed his trade – blacksmithing - until the year 1850, when, with his family, he removed to Union Township, Howard County, where he remained till his death, which occurred September 1, 1866. During the ten years following their arrival in Howard County, A. Ellis, who was one of the younger members of the family, attended the common schools of the county, and assisted his older brothers in clearing up a farm, from what was then an almost unbroken wilderness. In 1861, he attended high school at New London, under Prof. Lewis Estes, and in 1862 the State Normal School at Kokomo, under Prof. J. Baldwin. These completed his school studies. February 15, 1863, he was married to Miss Armina Jones, youngest daughter of Moses and Eunice Jones, who were pioneers of eastern Howard County. During the same year, he built a house on his father's farm, and commenced housekeeping. Here, on May 11,1864, was born Miss Belle Ellis, their only child. In the fall of 1865, he removed with his family to Livingston County, Mo., where he taught school during the winter of 1865-66, and in May, 1866, returned to Indiana, stopping at Windfall. During the three years following, he taught in the public schools of Howard and Tipton Counties. In the summer of 1869, he turned his attention to the study of telegraphy, and, upon the resignation of W. H. H. 'Lancaster, he was appointed agent for the P., C. & St. L. R. R., at Windfall, and took charge of the office November 1, 1869. December 15, 1881, he was transferred to the agency of the same road at Kokomo, succeeding Mr. John M. Ray. Mr. Ellis is thoroughly qualified for the position, and is a favorite with the community.

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

WILLIAM B. ELSON, proprietor of the Farmers' Hotel in Kokomo, and a farmer, is a native of Marion County, Ind., and was born March 2, 1838. He is the son of Nicholas and Lucy (Orme) Elson, natives of Kentucky. His parents were married in Kentucky, and settled in Marion County, Ind., in an early day, and were among the pioneers of Indiana. They resided in Marion County until their deaths, that of the father occurring October 21, 1851, and the mother October 22,1855. Mr. Elson, Sr., held the office of Sheriff of Lewis County, Ky., and was a soldier in the war of 1812. He held the rank of Fourth Sergeant under Capt. Logan, of the Kentucky militia. The subject of this sketch was the ninth son and youngest child. He was reared on a farm in his native county, where he remained until 1860, with the exception of two years, when he traveled as collection agent for an Indianapolis firm. In December, 1860, he came to Howard County, and located in Taylor Township, upon 111 acres of land, which he purchased. Here he remained until 1865, when he removed to Centre Township, upon a farm of 100 acres. He, in 1880, returned to Taylor Township, and farmed until December, 1882, when he purchased the hotel of which he is the present proprietor. He also owns 100 acres of fine farming land in Taylor Township. Mr. Elson was married in December, 1862, to Miss Florence Garr, a native of Kentucky, who lived in Howard County at the time of their marriage. This union has been blessed with four children - Charles O., Belle, Otto and Pearl. Mr. Elson is a worthy citizen, and a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity.

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

LEWIS L. FELLOWS was born in Wells County, Ind., September 29, 1853, and is the son of George C. and Mary J. (Hutchinson) Fellows, natives respectively of Vermont and Pennsylvania, and early settlers of Wells County, this State. About 1863, the family removed to Vermillion County, Ill., where Lewis was educated and reared to maturity, when he removed to Fithian, Ill., learned telegraphy and was appointed ticket agent and operator for the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western Railroad Company; four years later, he was stationed at Jamestown, Ind., where for four years longer he filled the same position; he next located at Kokomo, where he is now officiating as agent for the Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific Railroad Company. He was married in Jamestown, Ind., October 15, 1879, to Miss Anna M. Piersol, who was born in Reading, Penn., October 19, 1858, and who is a daughter of John and Sarah (Hull) Piersol. Mr. Fellows is a member of the F. & A. M., and in politics is a Republican.

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

DAVID FOSTER (deceased), one of the earliest pioneers of Howard County, was born in Albemarle County, Va., July 50, 1808. At the age of nineteen, he settled in Johnson County, Ind., and learned the cabinet-making trade. After acquiring his trade, he went to Mooresville, Morgan County, and was there married to Miss Elizabeth M. Grant, January 17, 1833. This union was blessed with eleven children. In 1835, Mr. Foster moved to Burlington, Carroll County, and began to trade with the Indians. In March, 1840, he located in Ervin Township, this county, where he opened up a trading post, but in the fall of 1842, he removed to Center Township and took possession of the cabin erected by the Indiana chief, Kokomo. Here he opened a trading post, and for many years dealt largely with the Indians. Mr. Foster was an active factor in the organization of the county, and gave largely to public improvement and the advancement of religion and education. Before the location of the county seat, the Commissioners told Mr. Foster that they would locate the county seat here if he would donate forty acres and build a log court house 24x21 feet, put in puncheon floors and seat it with benches. This he agreed to do, and Kokomo, the county seat, was laid out. At this time, Mr. Foster was the only white resident in this locality. He also donated the ground for the Methodist Episcopal Church and parsonage, and Normal School building. Mr. Foster died November 27, 1877, aged sixty-nine years, having survived his wife only a few years. Thus passed from earth another landmark, another pioneer, a man largely identified with the material progress of the county whose birth he had witnessed, and whose growth he had assisted and watched for thirty-three years.

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

HON. MILTON GARRIGUS was born September 27, 1831, in Centre Township, Wayne County, Ind. His paternal ancestors were natives of France. His grandfather Garrigus was a soldier in the American Revolution, and his father, Timothy Lindley Garrigus, a native of New Jersey, served in the war of 1812, under Gen. Harrison. He became one of the leading pioneer ministers of Indiana, and was widely known for his power and earnestness. He was a prominent Abolitionist and Free-Soiler, nominated as such for Representative from Wayne County in 1844, and for Senator, from Howard County, in 1852, but as the third party was not then in the majority, he was not elected. He was in full sympathy and accord with the people, and when the memorable struggle between freedom and slavery occurred, in 1856, on the plains of Kansas, he promptly shouldered his Sharpe's rifle and hastened toward the scene of strife. On his way, he was fatally stricken with pneumonia at Omaha, and there he sleeps on the banks of the Missouri River. His son Milton inherited many of his traits. After alluding to his father's calling (the ministry) in that early day, from 1820 to 1849, it is superfluous to add that Milton "enjoyed no royal road to learning," but by a natural aptitude and a great deal of painstaking industry he has developed into a fair English scholar of a large and liberal reading. It is a treat and pleasure to gain access to his large and valuable law and private library, the law library being much the largest in Kokomo. Thus he has indulged his tastes and become very familiar with ancient, modern and current history, and evened up by teaching school for seventeen terms, which was a mutual educational affair for teacher and pupils. Since his twenty-first year, he has been a resident of Howard County, where he varied life by staking out a claim in the "Indian Reserve " February 23, 1847, and staying there, keeping "bachelor's hall " for nine months in a primitive log cabin until his father's family came from Wayne County. By virtue of his long experience as school teacher, he came to be regarded as a practical educator, and was School Examiner of his county in 1859, 1860 and 1861, and County Superintendent of Schools in 1875, 1876, 1877 and 1878, when he resigned to accept the position of State Senator for Howard and Miami Counties, to which position he was elected in October, 1878, by 433 majority over Mr. Bell, the most popular Democrat in the district; and he received 194 majority over Mr. Bell in Centre Township, in which Kokomo is situated, where they each then resided, and where they still are citizens in the legal profession. During his term as School Superintendent, teachers from far and near flocked to Howard County for examination. The examinations were more practical than technical, and a certificate or license signed by Milton Garrigus was everywhere received as the best proof of the bearer's fitness for teaching. He was many years a member of the State Teachers' Association. He was a farmer until 1858, when he was appointed Postmaster at Greentown and removed to that village and engaged in the study and practice of law. He was admitted to the bar in 1859. In 1870, he entered into partnership with the late Col. C. D. Murray, of the Eighty-ninth Indiana Volunteers. He was afterward senior of the law firm of Garrigus & Ingels, and for a term of about five years he was associated with Judge James O'Brien until the fall of 1880, since which time he has had no law partner. He resided on his farm from 1865 to 1870, when he removed to Kokomo, and devoted his time to his law practice. In August, 1861, he resigned the post office to enlist as a private in Company D, Thirty-ninth Indiana Infantry, afterward the Eighth Indiana Cavalry. At the special request of his Captain, he served as company clerk while in that company. With 400 others he was made prisoner at Perryville, Ky., in October, 1862, but was paroled by Gen. Kirby Smith, at Nicholasville, a few days later. In May, 1864, while at home with his regiment on veteran furlough, he, with Capt. B. Busby, I recruited Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Regiment Indiana Volunteers, for the 100 days' service, was at once commissioned Second Lieutenant, then First Lieutenant, and on May 25, 1864, at the organization of the regiment, he was chosen and commissioned Adjutant, serving as such until September 20,1864, when the regiment was mustered out by reason of expiration of term of service, also serving much of said term as Post Adjutant, at Tullahoma, Tenn., and also for a time as A. A. A. G. of the brigade. He then enlisted a number of men for the One Hundred and Fortieth Indiana Regiment, and also Company I, One Hundred and Forty-second Indiana Volunteers, and continued on the upgrade by becoming its Captain; mustered as such November 3, 1864; they hurried forward to Nashville, Tenn., to oppose the northward march of Gen. Hood. After the battle of Nashville, from December, 1564, to July 26, 1865, he served as Inspector of the Second Brigade, Fourth Division, Twentieth Army Corps, having been selected to the position through competitive examination by an officer of the regular army. This promotion assigned him to the staff of Gen. E. C. Mason, a graduate of West Point, and formerly Inspector in the Army of the Potomac. At the close of his army service near the 1st of August, 1865, he received many flattering testimonials from the officers of his brigade, including the General commanding, a portion of which we are permitted to copy :
NASHVILLE, Tenn., August 2, 1865.
CAPT. MILTON GARRIGUS (late) ASSISTANT INSPECTOR GENERAL:
SIR: - I can now say what it would not have been proper for me to say while we were together - that is - that I always considered you an officer of rare ability. I have known many officers in the Inspector's Department. You were the most active, correct and faithful, in short -the best inspector I have ever known. There was not an officer on my staff I held in higher esteem, and whose services I will feel the need of more in my new field of duty. It will give me much pleasure to hear from you often. If at any time you think I can promote your interest in any way, command me. I am, Captain, very truly and respectfully your friend,
E. C. Mason , Brigadier General.

While on parole in the winter of 1862-63, he organized the Union League in the eastern part of Howard County, made war speeches and exposed the Knights of the Golden Circle, which made him bitter enemies, some of whom have never forgiven him. While in the army, he was war correspondent for several newspapers. Soon after the war, he became Commander of a Post of the Grand Army of the Republic. December, 1881, he was elected Commander of Thomas J. Harrison Post, No. 30, G. A. R., Department of Indiana, for the year 1852, and has now, April 1853, been rechosen for the year 1883. Jones Military Lodge, U. D., of Freemasons, was organized in and accompanied the Thirty-ninth Indiana Regiment during most of its service, and he was its Secretary for more than two years. In 1859, he was commissioned D. D. G. W. C. T. of the order of Good Templars, and employed to canvass the northern half of Indians in the interests of that order and the temperance cause. He entered on his work zealously and successfully, but the breaking-out of the civil war prevented its entire execution. In 1877, he was elected as Councilman in the Second Ward of the city of Kokomo, and served two years. In the Legislature of 1879, he was a member of the following Senate committees: Public Buildings, Congressional Apportionment, Ditches and Swamp Lands. In the Legislature of 1881, he was chairman of the Senate Committee on Corporations, and a member of the Committee on Railroads. He has long been an Odd Fellow, and for the last twelve years a member of the Christian Church, as are also his wife and two daughters. He contributed over $1,100 toward the erection of their new church building in Kokomo. His mother, Elizabeth Alison Garrigus, was a Virginian, and expert with the rifle. For sixty years she was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. She died at the house of her son Milton, with whom she lived, November, 1878, aged near seventy-nine years. Milton Garrigus was married to Susan M. Whiteneck, in Greentown, on the 24th day of February, 1853. Nine children have been born to them, six of whom - Louisa A., Ada A., Edwin J., Allen C., Victor L. and Myrtle M. - are now living. Capt. Garrigus was early a director and life member of the Howard County Agricultural Society. At the Centennial Celebration, July 4, 1876, he was chosen Orator of the Day, and addressed a gathering of near 15,000 people at the fair grounds near Kokomo, numerous organizations attending. His effort was highly spoken of, and the occasion will long be remembered with pleasure by all who participated. Mr. Garrigue is a stalwart Republican of long experience. He is an affirmative man on all subjects and occasions. He has opinions and expresses them. His first Presidential vote was cast for Gen. Scott in 1852, then he voted for Fremont in 1856, and for every Republican President chosen since. He has been a central committeman ever since the Republican party was organized, except only while he was in the army. He was chairman of the County Central Committee in the campaigns of 1874, 1876, 1880 and 1882, and having given probably more time and money in that direction than any man in the county, he by his enthusiasm and power of organization has done much to make and maintain the large and increasing Republican majorities in his county. He has burned the midnight oil helped to clear three heavily timbered farms for his father and one for himself - is public spirited in all things and has contributed hundreds of dollars, by subscription, to help build railroads through Howard County. He helped organize and build the Kokomo, Greentown & Jerome Gravel road and was for years its Secretary. In 1883, he was nominated by President Arthur as Collector of Internal Revenue for the Eleventh District of Indiana, and although recommended by the Governor, the State and his County Central Committee, the city officers of Kokomo and many of its business men, most of the county officers, the Judges of the Circuit and also of the United States Courts, the leading men of nearly every county in the district, and numerous representative men from different portions of the State, by every Republican member of the Legislature, many Democrats uniting, yet by one of the uncertainties and mutations of political life, no action was taken on his nomination by the sub-committee, to whom it was referred, and finding that no report would be made in the closing days of the session of 1883, he withdrew his name, presenting and supporting the name of T. M. Kirkpatrick, of Howard County, who was appointed and confirmed. In the campaign of 1882, the State Central Committee sent him forth through the State to make Republican speeches, although he was and is chairman of the committee in his own county. There have been numerous bolters and some difficult campaigns while he has been at the Lead of his party in Howard County, but he has invariably organized victory instead of defeat, and has thus received the plaudits again and again of the Republicans of Indiana, and especially of Howard and surrounding counties. He is still hale and in the prime of his powers, undaunted in the battle of life, and bids fair to add many years of future usefulness to those already past.

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

A. N. GRANT was born in Butler County, Ohio, August 27, 1848, and was one of nine children. His father, John M., was a native of Ohio and of Scotch descent; his mother, Catharine Grant, came from Pennsylvania, and was of German parentage. John M. Grant moved to Carroll County, Ind., in 1851, locating in the dense forest, where not a tree had been cut, and there erected his cabin home. He experienced many of the privations of the early settler. His farm is located near Burlington, on which he has resided ever since, having cleared 400 acres of heavy timber; he now owns over 700 acres of well-improved land, and is one of the leading farmers in his county. A. N. Grant assisted his father in clearing the land, going to school during the minters until he was fourteen years of age, when he joined the patriotic boys and enlisted in the spring of 1864, in Company D, One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, as a private. He was honorably discharged in August, 1865. When he returned home, he worked on the farm and attended school during 1865-66, and each successive winter taught and attended school for nine years. In 1874-75, he was Superintendent of the Camden High School. In the winter of 1875-76, he attended the law school at Ann Arbor, where he graduated in the following spring. He was admitted to the bar in Carroll County and commenced the practice of law in Howard County, in the fall of 1876, when he became a resident of Kokomo. During 1880-81, he was in partnership with B. F. Harness, in law practice, and in an abstract office. He is an active member of the Republican party, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Grant is an enterprising citizen, and has been identified with all public enterprises of the city since he became a resident of it. He was married September 28, 1876, to Miss Mary L. Darnell, of Greencastle, Ind. One daughter- Fern Etta –blesses this union. He is a member of the Grand Lodge of the I. O. O. F., of the Masonic Order in the Blue Lodge, of the Knights of Pythias, of the United Order of Honor and Grand Army of the Republic.

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

R. T. GROVES is the son of James A. Groves, a native of Kentucky, and Mary (McCarty) Groves, born in Maryland. His parents came to Indiana in an early day and settled at Indianapolis. Mr. Groves was a brick and stone mason by trade, and built the old State House at Indianapolis, and the Madison Depot, the first in that city. He was a pioneer at La Fayette, and helped clear the ground that the public square now occupies. He made and laid the first brick in the city of Crawfordsville, Ind., and contracted and made the government improvements for the Godfrey tribe of Indians in Miami County. He took an active part in developing the early railroads centering into Indianapolis, and took large contracts in many of the internal improvements of this State. At her a long and useful life, he quietly passed away on April 12, 1876, aged seventy-seven years. Robert T. Groves, was born in La Fayette, Ind., January 24, 1833, and six years later removed with his parents to Rushville, Ind., and in a short time was taken to Noblesville, where he received the benefits of the schools until seventeen years of age. He then removed with his parents to Lebanon, Ind., where he finished his education, after which he was employed by his father on the Indianapolis & Cincinnati Railroad. Later, he engaged in the live-stock trade, after which he followed pork-packing five years at Cincinnati, and one year at La Fayette. In 1874, he came to Kokomo, where he has since been engaged in the livery and sale stable business. He was married in Kokomo in July, 1878, to Miss Rebecca Luillin, of Kentucky. By this union they have two children- Franklin E. and William D. Mr. Groves is one of Kokomo's leading citizens; he has served as City Councilman, and is an active member of the Republican party.

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

DR. J. F. HENDERSON, a native of Pennsylvania, was born near Lancaster November 23, 1820, of English-Irish parents. He was the second of a family of seven children, and passed his early life on a farm. In 1833, the family moved to Indiana, coming through in wagons, and camping one night near the site of the old State house. They located in Tippecanoe County, and for many years his father kept a wayside inn ; he paid some attention to farming, and successfully conducted a cooper shop, in which all his sons worked. Dr. Henderson worked in the shop, and attended the common schools. As soon as he was able, he began teaching, and, through economy, he was soon enabled to pursue the higher branches in the academy at Jeffersonville. At the age of twenty-two, he was married to Cynthia Ann Whitson. They had seven children, five of whom are living. He began the study of medicine at the ago of nineteen, and in 1847 he began to practice in New London, where he also conducted a dry goods and drug store. In 1855, he graduated from the Ohio Medical college with the honors of his class. His thesis on that occasion was subsequently largely quoted in "King's Work on Obstetrics." He helped to found the Pioneer, the first newspaper established in the county. He was a Democrat, and in slavery days a Free-Soiler. His influence and labors are thought to have elected Hon. J. E. McDonald to the Lower House over Hon. H. S. Lane, the Whig candidate. In 1860, Dr. Henderson was sent by the Democrats to the National Convention at Baltimore, when Stephen A. Douglas was nominated for the Presidency. In 1861, he removed his family to Kokomo, and when the war broke out, he volunteered his services. He was elected Surgeon of the Eighty-ninth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and for several years was Acting Brigade Surgeon of Fort Pickering, Memphis, Tenn. On his return Born the war, he founded the City Book and Drug Store, which he conducted until 1868, when he sold out to begin the erection of the Clinton Hotel, in which Jay, Russell & Dolman took a half-interest. Dr. Henderson was the founder and for a few years the editor of the Kokomo Dispatch, and, in 1872, ambitious to build a permanent home for the newspaper, conceived the idea of erecting the Opera House. In conjunction with M. Bell and H. H. Winslow, the building was completed and opened to the public in September, 1873. Dr. Henderson now lives on his farm in Monroe Township, having retired from politics and active business. He has made many improvements in the city of Kokomo. He was Postmaster at New London under President Polk, and for two terms served as a member of the Common Council of the city of Kokomo from the First Ward. Dr. Henderson is truly a self-made man, and his monument is the improvements he has made to the community in which he was for nearly half a century so active a factor.

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

JOHN O. HENDERSON, the senior editor of the Kokomo Dispatch, was born on the 1st day of September, 1847, in the town of New London, this county. His father and mother are both living, to rejoice in the success of their son. His father, John F. Henderson, is one of the old settlers of this county and a pioneer physician of much more than ordinary ability. His mother's maiden name was Cynthia A. Whitson. New London is noted for its good schools. Here the youthful editor of the Dispatch received much more than ordinary advantages in education. In 1861, he removed to Kokomo with his parents, where he has ever since resided. He attended the city schools from 1861 until 1565, when he commenced clerking in his father's drug store, where he remained until 1868. He taught two terms of district school, between 1865 and 1868, and is thus a member of that grand army of men who began a successful career, in life by starting as "a common school -teacher." In the fall of 1888, he entered Asbury University, then under the Presidency of Bishop Bowman, where he was graduated in 1872. In the summer of 1873, he purchased an interest in the Kokomo Democrat, a little sheet founded by his father, as the organ of the Democratic party of Howard County. The paper was struggling for an existence on the journalistic sea. There was a party majority against the paper of 1,200. The Tribune, at that time, was at the zenith of its power, edited by T. C. Philips, one of the brightest, most trenchant and powerful writers ever upon the Indiana press. Here, our youthful editor had to contend for success or failure, with a foeman worthy of any man's steel. He could not have had a better schooling. It was soon seen that he had made no mistake in his choice of a profession. The paper at once began to show signs of improvement. In August, 1875, the paper was greatly enlarged and its name changed to the Kokomo Dispatch. From the time that J. O. Henderson's name appeared as one of the editors, he has been the chief writer for the paper. The office and job rooms are all well supplied with best materials, and the facilities for first-class work are the best. Today, no list of leading weekly papers would be made without plating the Kokomo Dispatch near the top of the list. Mr. Henderson is everywhere recognized as one of the most polished and brilliant of the young editors of the State. In the campaign of 1876, he made his paper felt as a power upon the Democratic side of that fierce contest. In each campaign since that, the Dispatch has been regarded as the leading political paper of this Congressional district. During the last campaign, the Dispatch articles written against L. P. Milligan, in the Huntington-Wells Senatorial district, were widely copied. Oscar Henderson is a thorough newspaper man, popular with the craft. As a writer, he is vigorous and powerful. He has the humorous strongly developed in his nature, and he has the faculty of hitting off an opponent in a few humorous sentences, which prove more effective than a labored article would be. He recognizes the duty he owes to journalism, and no man is more thoroughly discriminative in his duties as an editor, and his relations as a friend. He never allows his social or business relations to interfere with his duties as a journalist. One thing can be said of him, that he is no trimmer, and no stickler for the favor of public opinion. Some of the best known writers of Indiana journalism commenced their careers as authors in the columns of the Dispatch. In May, 1879, he was married to Miss Mary George, daughter of William W. George, who resides a few miles west of this city, and is a prominent farmer of Clay Township. One boy, about one year old, has come to brighten their home.

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

HOWARD EUGENE HENDERSON, the junior editor of the Kokomo Dispatch, has long been recognized as the financial man of the firm. To Howard E. Henderson, more than to any and all other persons, is due the credit of making the paper what it is in a financial point of view. He became a half-owner of the paper, then the Kokomo Democrat, in 1874. The paper has since been owned by J. O. & H. E. Henderson, who are its editors and publishers. Howard found a small paper, poorly equipped facilities, few subscribers, and loaded down with debts. As soon as he became an owner of the paper, he became its local editor and financial manager. Order was soon evolved out of chaos. It was the determination of its financial manager that the paper should be made to pay. The subscription list was low, advertising rates low, and job work not plentiful. At once subscriptions were solicited, new type was added to the facilities, and all was changed. As early as 1876, the Dispatch became known as a wide-awake, sprightly Democratic paper. Soon the debt was paid off, the paper was enlarged, and a new Baxter engine was added, so that the old hand presses mere thrown aside, and the paper has since been run by steam. Since the campaign of 1876, the Dispatch has taken an active part each year. Howard E. Henderson was born in the town of New London, Howard Co., Ind., on the 22d day of December, 1849. Here he spent the first twelve years of his life, moving to Kokomo with his parents in 1861. Here he attended the city schools until 1869, when he entered Asbury University, remaining two years, but did not graduate. He was foreman of his father's lumber yard for six years. In l873, he was married to Miss Belle Williams, of Alto, Ind., daughter of Rev. Thomas Williams. He is the father of two children - the elder, Frank, and the younger, Eva. He has been for some time the manager of the Kokomo Opera House, and has shown himself, here as elsewhere, a competent business man. He has elevated the standard of our amusements until Kokomo is recognized abroad as a town where people know what good acting is. During the last year we have had some of the best companies ever before the footlights.

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

DAVID HEXTER, son of Levi and Barbara Hexter, was born in Germany February 24, 1844, and came with his parents to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1849. At the age of thirteen, he went to Pittsburgh, Penn., where he learned butchering, and then went into business for himself. In 1861, he enlisted in Company B, Second West Virginia Infantry, and was three years in active service, taking part in the engagements at Philippi, Garrett's Ford, Rich Mountain, Monterey, Cross Keys, Cedar Mountain, second Bull Run, Antietam, Flat Rock, Rocky Gap, Lynchburg, etc.; he was discharged in August, 1864, when he returned to Pittsburgh. In 1870, he came to Kokomo and engaged in the grocery and butcher business; he now carries a stock valued at $2,000, and his transactions in 1882 amounted to $23,000. May 23, 1867, he married Miss Barbara Mayer, also a native of Germany, and to their union four children have been born - Isador, Max F., Hattie and Samuel J. Mr. and Mrs. H. are members of the Hebrew Church, and he is also an Odd Fellow. Politically, he is identified with the Democratic party.

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

WALTER HOOPER was born in England, November 29, 1829, and is the son of Thomas and Jane (Mitcheld) Hooper. Thomas Hooper came to America in 1832. He, in a few years, went back to England, but crossed over to America and settled in New York. Here Walter grew to manhood, receiving a common school education. He worked at intervals for his grandfather, Thomas Chappell, an engineer. At the age of twenty-one, he came west, stopping in Porter County, Ind. Having some knowledge of the blacksmith trade, he soon found employment in Valparaiso, but in a few months he went to Aurora, Ill., where he remained until 1858. He then went to Montgomery, Ala., and worked at his trade until the fall of 1860, when he located at Troy, N. Y. On the day that saw the beginning of the civil war, he came to Indianapolis, Ind., and in 1865 located at Kokomo. He was then worth $6,000. He bought property here and erected a small blacksmith shop and began to make buggies. During his first year's business, he sold $1,665 worth of new work, and, eight years later, $14,516. He manufactures a full line of buggies, carriages and spring wagons, and his work is all first-class. In 1869, he built a livery stable, cost $3,000; in 1870, a business room, for $5,000; in 1872, two brick business rooms, for $6,000 ; in 1874, a brick residence, cost $7,000, and in 1882, one brick business room, at a cost of $25,000. Mr. Hooper owns what is known as Hooper's Block. He employs seven workmen and is doing a good business. He is a supporter of all public improvements, and has done as much as any one man in the building up of Kokomo. He has been Treasurer of the Agricultural Society for six years. He has been an Odd Fellow for twenty years, and Treasurer of the Wildman Lodge twelve years in succession. Mr. Hooper was married in the full of 1860 to Miss Christiana England, a native of Germany, but whose parents brought her to this country in her youth. Mr. and Mrs. Hooper are members of the Congregational Church.

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

HON. MILTON B. HOPKINS (deceased), late Superintendent of Public Instruction of Indiana, was born in Nicholas County, Ky., April 4, 1821. His father, Joseph Hopkins, was a talented lawyer of that day. After his father's death, his mother married a farmer and came with her husband and son to Indiana and settled on a farm in Rush County. At the age of fifteen, feeling an innate and strong desire for knowledge, he appealed to his step-father for assistance. This being refused, he left home, determined to work his own way and procure an education. He worked in a livery stable and spent all his earnings going to school. As soon as he was competent, he began to teach, with marked success, in the country schools. He studied Greek and Latin in private. At the age of twenty, he began to preach the Gospel and advocate Christianity, locating in Milroy, Rush county; thence he moved to Frankfort, Ind., and six years later to Noblesville. Here, from his anxiety to understand the legal profession, he abandoned the ministry and studied and entered upon the practice of law. He was fast gaining the reputation of a lawyer of more than ordinary efficiency when, being persuaded to return to the ministry, he established a superior reputation as a preacher. After living there about five years, he was induced to unite with Benjamin Franklin, of Cincinnati, Ohio, editor of the American Christian Review, in the publication of that paper. He moved to Cincinnati and entered upon the work, preaching at the same time in Cincinnati, Louisville and Covington. But his health failed and he was obliged to return to farming. In 1858, he located in Clinton County, Ind., and founded Farmers' Academy, which soon wielded a powerful influence in the community and attracted a patronage from adjoining counties. While living there, he was nominated by the Democratic party for Superintendent of Public Instruction, but he declined the nomination. After remaining there about four years, he moved to Boone County and took charge of the Lebanon High School. Desiring still greater opportunities for the exercise of his educational powers, he made arrangements to take charge of Ladoga Academy, intending ultimately to convert it into a college. This institution soon gained a wide reputation and commanded a patronage from other States. After teaching there, and preaching at the same time in various parts of the State, for about six years, and finding better encouragement and facilities in Kokomo, Howard County, for the establishment of a college, he moved to this place and, in connection with his sons, the eldest two of whom had finished their course of study in the Kentucky University, he founded Howard College, under his own Presidency. This institution soon attracted a patronsge that compared favorably with other colleges in the State, when his nomination by the Democratic party in 1870 for the office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, and his subsequent election, prevented him from being more than a nominal president of the college and thus checked its progress. He now devoted all his energies and abilities to the duties of his office, and with such success that in 1872 he was re-elected by a handsome majority. Upon entering his second term, he abandoned Howard College. But a few months before the expiration of his second term, the whole State was shocked at the announcement of his sudden death, which occurred at his residence in Kokomo August 16, 1874, at the age of fifty-three. The obsequies were attended by the officers of State. At the funeral discourse, Gov. Hendricks said: "No man ever died in the State who received the honors this man will receive." 'Happy will it be with his fellow-officers," said Lieut. Gov. Sexton, "if, when they are called upon to render their accounts, it shall as well with them its it is today with Milton B. Hopkins." In 1842, Mr. Hopkins was married to Jaalah Rebecca Stallard, daughter of James Stallard, a pious, pioneer Methodist preacher. They had five children – Alexander C., Professor in the Danville, Ill., College; John O. (deceased), late Professor of Greek in Butler University; James I., Principal of the Kirklin Schools; M. Jennie, wife of Prof. A. J. Youngblood, of Eureka, Ill.; and Mary Belle, wife of P. O. Updegraff, of Kokomo. Mr. Hopkins and family were members of the Christian Church. As a preacher, he ranked among the ablest of his church. As a teacher, he gradually rose from the district schools of Rush County to Superintendent of Public Instruction. ''He gave the school system of Indiana," says Gov. Hendricks, "a national reputation." At the close of his first term, Indiana had a larger school fund, by $2,000,000, than any other State in the Union. Mr. Hopkins was a close student all his life. He was a true lover of his country, and was greatly devoted to the great State in which he lived.

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

LORA C. HOSS, editor and proprietor of the Kokomo Gazette, was born in Marion County, Ind., January 16, 1859. His parents, Peter E. and Sarah (Ringer) Hoss, were of German descent. His mother died before he was two years old, and he was reared by his father's parents. They removed to Howard County, and located near Fairfield in 1865. Here L. C. attended the country school during the winters and assisted his grandfather on the farm during the summer months. In 1874, he entered Butler University at Irvington, Ind., a suburb of Indianapolis. He attended college three years, after which he spent one year in Kansas, where in the summer he assisted his cousin in breaking prairie sod, and during the winter months taught a common school in the country. In 1878, he returned home, and again entered Butler University, graduating with honors in 1881, in the regular classical course. He then came to Kokomo, and July 25 took a half-interest in the Gazette. He is now sole proprietor of this paper. He has enlarged it and built it up, until now it is one of the best local papers in the State, and has an increasing circulation. Mr. Hoss is a stanch Republican, and has done much to build up the party in this county, through the columns of his worthy paper. He is an active member of the Christian Church, of the Knights of Pythias, and the Phi Delta Theta fraternity.

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

E. S. HUNT, of the firm of E. S. Hunt Sc Go., was born December 13, 1841, in Henry County, Ind., and was one of nine children born to Nathan and Caroline (Hosier) Hunt. His father was a native of North Carolina, and his mother was born in this State. The parents moved to New Lebanon, Monroe Township, this county, when their son was but three years of age. His father was a carpenter. With the aid of his sons, he improved forty acres of timber land. E. S. Hunt was taught the use of tools while young, and, when he was thirteen years old, he accompanied his father at carpentering, and at eighteen was a competent mechanic, and at this age he built the largest barn then in Howard County. This barn contained 111 sticks of square timber, which was scored and hewed from the tree. He continued at his trade until August, 1862, when he enlisted in Company G, Eighty-ninth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He served as a private in this regiment one year, when he was transferred and promoted as Quartermaster Sergeant of the Third United States Colored Heavy Artillery. A few months later, he was promoted to First Lieutenant, and later he was transferred to the First Tennessee Colored Militia. He was Captain of this company during the remainder of the war. After serving faithfully for over three years, he was honorably discharged. On reaching home, he worked at his trade for a short time, when he bought an engine and threshing machine, and engaged in this business for seven successive seasons. In the meantime, he and his brother were running a planing-mill at New London. They continued this business until 1875, when they moved their machinery to Russiaville, where they operated with marked success for one year. They exchanged this for the furniture factory owned by A. Kline, to which they added new machinery, making a planing mill, and sash and door factory, at a cost of about $16,000. The company of H. & E. S. Hunt added a lumber yard to their mill, and continued in business until February, 1882, when E. S. exchanged his interest in the factory for H. Hunt's interest in the lumber yard. Mr. E. S. Hunt has since given his attention to the wholesale and retail trade of hard and soft wood lumber. Their yard is well filled, they having $50,000 invested in stock. Mr. Hunt started in life a poor boy, and by hard work and economy he now owns 201 acres of well-improved land in Howard Township, worth $12,000, besides good city property, and a fourth interest in the lumber yard of E. S. Hunt & Co., of which he is manager. He has never been an aspirant to office, but he has served two terms its Justice of the Peace in Monroe Township, and has been one of the City Councilmen of Kokomo for four years. He is s live, energetic business man, and is a Republican in principle. He was married in May, 1861, to Miss Mahala Ratcliffe, of Howard County. She was born September 11, 1841, and was the daughter of William and Mary A. Ratcliffe. The result of this union is eight children - Elzir, Mary C., E. Della, William M., Emma F., Lillie, Exie Elmore and Glen G.

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

NORMAN HURD was born October 30, 1820, in New Hampshire. He is the son of Stephen and Naby (Wilcox) Hurd, both natives of New Hampshire, and of English descent. In 1837, this family moved into Western New York, where they lived until 1843, when they moved west into Peoria County, Ill., and four years later into Marshall County, where the parents lived during the remainder of their lives. Norman lived at home, going to school until he was thirteen years old, and working on the farm. His education was limited, but by his own efforts he has acquired a good practical education. In the fall of 1864, he enlisted in Company F, Forty-second Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and was honorably discharged June 15,1865. He participated in the battles of Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville. He was fortunately not wounded, but when he returned to his father's farm in Marshall County, Ohio, he was broken down in health from exposure and over-exertion. In 1867, he was compelled to leave the farm, so he located at Walton, Cass Co., Ind., where he engaged in the lumber business. He engaged in this business seven years, when he returned to Marshall County, Ill., where he improved a farm and tilled it for three years. In the spring of 1877, he came to Kokomo and engaged in the manufacture of hardwood lumber, car, bridge and wagon timber. He is doing a good business of $40,000 per annum, employing thirty-five hands. He located his mill and lumber yard near the Junction. Mr. Hurd started in life a poor boy, but through his own effort, with economy, he has accumulated good property. He is a Republican in politics. July 12, 1843, Mr. Hurd was married to Miss L. D. Hurd, who was born in New Hampshire, April 19, 1821. She was the daughter of Permenius and Sophia (Dean) Hurd, both natives of New Hampshire, of English descent. Three children have been born - Oliver S., Dexter N., of the firm of Hurd & Co., and Mariam A. Mr. and Mrs. Hurd are members of the Congregational Church, and are active workers and liberal supporters of their church.

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

AUSTIN JAY, dealer and shipper of butter, eggs and poultry, came to Kokomo in 1870 and was employed by Jay & Jay, in the grocery and produce business, for three years. He then went to Grant County, Ind., and embarked in the grocery and bakery business, which he conducted two years. He then engaged in the produce business there, buying, and dealing in butter, eggs and poultry; this he followed until 1878, when he returned to Kokomo and transferred his business here. He has established a large and lucrative trade and is an extensive shipper of produce to New York and Chicago. Our subject is a native of Grant County, Ind., where he was born in 1854. His parents were Samuel and Marie (Evans) Jay; his father was a merchant, and died in 1878; his mother is living with her son in Kokomo. Mr. Jay is a member of the K. of P., and in politics is a Republican.

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

DR. I. C. JOHNSON was born in Indianapolis, Ind., September 26, 1829. He is the son of Isaac Johnson, a native of Vermont, and Barshebah (Helvey) Johnson, born in North Carolina. His parents were married in Indianapolis, and his father died at the age of thirty. In 1835, our subject was sent to live with his uncle, Joel Helvey, in Huntington County, Ind., where he remained until he was eighteen years of age, attending the common schools of that district. He was sent to learn the millwright's trade in Wabash County, and in 1846 went with his brother-in-law to Grant County and engaged in the milling business. In the fall of 1855, he commenced the study of rnedicine in the office of Drs. W. & C. Lomax, of Marion, Grant County. After remaining there one year, he read two years with Dr. D. W. Taylor, in Grant County. He attended lectures during the winter of 1860-61 at the Rush Medical College at Chicago, and in 1863 again entered that institution, graduating the following spring. He commenced practice in Kokomo in May, 1863, and in the spring of 1864 he entered the army as Contract Surgeon in a hospital in Nashville, and the following February received the commission of Acting Assistant Surgeon in the One Hundred and Fifty-third Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served in that capacity until the close of the war, when he returned to Kokomo and resumed his active practice. In 1874 he was elected County Treasurer, serving two terms. His administration was eminently satisfactory, and was characterized by dignity, efficiency and perfect integrity. Since the close of the term of office, he has been actively engaged in his extensive practice, and ranks as one of the leading physicians in the county. He hits served as President of the Kokomo Academy of Medicine, and is now President of the Howard County Medical Association. He is a prominent member of the I. O. O. F., and has passed all the chairs in that lodge. Dr. Johnson was married in 1857, to Miss Adelaide Swope, a native of Wayne County, Ind. This union has been blessed with four children, only one of whom is living - Minnie. Dr. Johnson is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his political principles are those of the Republican party, with which he has been connected since its organization. He has been active in promoting the prosperity of Kokomo, and takes a leading part in whatever promises to benefit the city and county. Dr. Johnson has been a student all of his life, and keeps' pace with the advancement of his profession. He is a man of solid worth, courteous, temperate, upright, and possesses superior business and social attributes.

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

BENJAMIN B. JOHNSON, Treasurer of Howard County, is a native of Ohio, and was born in Stark County September 2, 1852. He is the fifth of nine children born to Jesse and Martha (Butler) Johnson, both natives of Virginia, and of English and Welsh descent. His parents removed to this county in September, 1866, and located in the city of Kokomo. Mr. Jesse Johnson was a farmer during his early life, but when he came to this county he entered into mercantile pursuits, which he followed for a few years. He then retired from business, and was an invalid for years before his death, in March, 1879. The subject of this sketch spent his early boyhood days on a farm, having access to the common schools, and finished his education in the Kokomo High School. At the age of sixteen years, he began clerking in the news stand, and in March, 1868, became Deputy Postmaster. He held this office until November, 1871, when he became book-keeper in the First National Bank, where he remained until January, 1877. He then accepted a position as clerk in the Legislature, during a regular and special session. After this Mr. Johnson opened an abstract and loan office, in company with Mr. L. O. Moreland, continuing until November, 1878, at which time he entered the Treasurer's office as Deputy. He was elected County Treasurer on the Republican ticket in November, 1882. He is a live, energetic business man, and has taken an active part in the political circle. Mr. Johnson was married, July 4, 1875, to Miss Clara C. Albaugh, of Kokomo. She was born September 8, 1855, and is the daughter of Aaron and Susanna Albaugh, of Kokomo. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have had three children, two of whom are living - Edna and Fred.

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

JAMES D. JOHNSON is a son of Jesse and Martha (Butler) Johnson, the former a native of Virginia, the latter of Ohio. He was born in Stark County, Ohio, January 18, 1860, where he was reared until six years old. His parents then removed to Kokomo, Ind., where James D. was brought up and educated. He clerked at intervals during his school-boy days, and completed his studies in 1877, in the High School of Kokomo. He accepted a position with Moreland & Johnson, dealers in real estate, loans, and abstracts of titles, which he filled with competency until 1878. At the death of Mr. Moreland, he, with his brother, purchased an interest in the concern. The business was conducted under the firm of B. B. Johnson & Co. It was successfully carried on till 1881, when he purchased his brother's interest. He is now prosperously conducting a general loan, abstracts of title and insurance business. In the insurance line, he represents the "Franklin" of Philadelphia, "Lancashire" of England, ''Connecticut" of Hartford, and the "Fireman's Fund" of California. In 1881, he was appointed agent for the "Adams" and "American" Express Companies, which position he still fills. In 1882, he was qualified Fire Warden of Ward No. 3, where he is faithfully discharging his duty. Mr. Johnson was married in Kokomo, Ind., October 20, 1881, to Miss Maud A. Anderson, of Kokomo. She was born January 15, 1863, and is a daughter of Joseph and Sarah J. (Richmond) Anderson. By this union they have one child - Edith. Mr. Johnson is a polite and genial gentleman, and bids fair to become one of Kokomo's prominent business men. His political sympathies are with the Republican party.

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

JOHN W. KERN, one of the first lawyers of this Eleventh Congressional District, and one of the most brilliant lawyers of his age in the State, was born at Alto, Howard County. He was born on the 20th day of December, 1849. When he was still very young, his parents moved to Warren County, Iowa, where John lived the life of many another farmer's lad, who afterward achieved success and fame in his chosen calling in after life. Here John attended his first term of school, in a schoolhouse alike in all things to the average schoolhouse of the pioneer period. He attended school in the winter and aided upon the Farm in the summer. When he was fourteen years of age, his parents returned to Alto, and since that time Mr. Kern has always been a resident of this county. About this time, John became fired with an ambition, always pleasant to see; he determined to become educated. For two years, he attended the school in this city, corning from his home each morning, and back again in the evening, on horseback. When but fifteen years of age, he taught his first term of school, at the home schoolhouse in Alto. His second and last term of school was taught at the Dyar Schoolhouse in the winter of 1866 and 1567. It has been said that poets are born, not made by study; whether true or not, it is true that the subject of this sketch was a lawyer by nature. We do not mean by this that he did not prepare himself thoroughly for the success he has since obtained, but we mean that he naturally drifted into the legal profession. He entered the University of Michigan in the spring of 1867, and took a special course of study; in the fall of the same year, he entered the law department of the same university as a junior, and was graduated therefrom in the spring of 1869. In May of the same year, before he was twenty years of age, he opened an office in this city and commenced the practice of his profession. While young in years, he offset any disadvantage because of his youth by superior diligence and energy in his practice, and he soon commanded a large business and took a leading place in his profession, which he has ever since maintained. While he is an antagonist to be feared in any cause in which he embarks, it is as a "criminal lawyer" that he especially excels; kind and sympathetic by nature, his heart, goes out to those in trouble. He seems to divine by intuition the strong points of a defense, and this, together with his matchless oratory, makes him a redoubtable antagonist in the defense of persons charged with crime. Soon after he commenced practice, he was engaged to assist in the prosecution of Dougherty, who was indicted for killing Van Horn. The case was tried at Tipton. Col. Charles D. Murray, Col. N. P. Richmond and Charles E. Hendry were also employed in the prosecution. All were men of ability and experience. The defendant was represented by one of the most able corps of attorneys ever engaged in the defense of any man, Gov. Thomas A. Hendricks, Maj. Jonathan W. Gordon, of Indianapolis, Judge Linsday, of Kokomo, and Hon. N. R. Overman, of Tipton. The defendant was acquitted, but the trial of this case showed, despite his youth, that Mr. Kern could cope successfully with the best men in his profession. From the time of that trial to the present, Gov. Hendricks has always been Mr. Kern's warm friend and admirer. Soon after this, Mr. Kern defended one Jones, for the killing of Miles Slyter; he was acquitted. He assisted in the defense of Garr and Pratt for the killing of Warnick; both were acquitted. In the winter of 1880, he was employed to prosecute Doles for the killing of Perry White. The first trial came off in March, 1881, and the jury stood eleven for conviction and one for acquittal; thus they were discharged; the second trial took place in March, 1882, and Doles was sentenced to twenty-one years in the penitentiary. Mr Kern's closing argument for the State was one of the most powerful arguments ever delivered before a Tipton County jury. When closing his argument, he summed up all the evidence against the defendant and closed with one of the most thundering perorations ever heard in a court of justice. Many other cases of importance in which Mr. Kern was employed might be given, but they would be superfluous. In 1871, Mr. Kern was elected City Attorney, by a Republican Council, and subsequently re-elected twice, thus serving unti1 1877, when he refused longer to fill the office; he was elected at the last election, May, 1883, to fill the office of City Attorney of Kokomo two years. Each of these elections was by a Republican Council. In politics, Mr. Kern is a Democrat of the most pronounced character, but he is not an ultra partisan, and in local elections remembers his friends. In the fall of 1870, the Democrats nominated him for the Legislature, and he was beaten by less than 250 votes, when the county went Republican by 1,000; his opponent was Captain Kirkpatrick, then as now a strong man in his party. In 1874, Mr. Kern was defeated for Prosecutor by 234 votes, and in 1880 he was defeated by 505, when Garfield carried the county by 1,200 majority. It is very safe to say that the political life of John W. Kern has just commenced. Mr. Kern married Miss Annie Hazzard, in 1870. They have but one child, Fred. He is a member of the Methodist Church and is a Freemason and Odd Fellow. His mother died in 1859. His father, Dr. Jacob H. Kern, resides near Botetourt Springs, Va. Mr. Kern is the only son. He has a sister, who also resides in Virginia.

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