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OHIO GENEALOGY EXPRESS

A Part of Genealogy Express

 


WELCOME
to
ADAMS COUNTY, OHIO
HISTORY & GENEALOGY
 


 


Source:
Caldwell's Illustrated Historical Atlas
of
Adams County, Ohio

Publ. 1880

CHAPTER XVIII.

HISTORY OF MANCHESTER
pp. 31 -

     The State of Virginia, during the progress of the Revolutionary war, in order to engage the native services of her citizens, and give ample compensation to those hardy officers and soldiers, who were devoting their lives and fortunes to their country, by several acts of her legislature, granted them liberal bounties, in now, unappropriated lands, for their services.  To satisfy these bounties, a large tract of land was reserved in the Kentucky territory, which then belonged to Virginia.
     Shortly after the close of the war, in order to avoid the confusion heretofore attendant on the careless locations of lands, and also to do ample justice to those interested, an act of the legislature was passed, authorizing certain deputations of officers, therein named, or a certain number of them, from both the continental and State lines, to appoint Superintendents on behalf of their respective lines, and also nominate two principal surveyors, and to contract with them for their fees, who were authorized to select their own deputies, with the consent of the Superintendents.  By a further provision of this act, the holders of warrants were required to place them in the hands of surveyors of the respective lines by a specified day, and then the priority of the location of their warrants should be decided by lots.
     The surveyors, after these preliminary arrangements, were authorized to proceed to survey all the good lands in that tract of country lying between Green and Cumberland rivers, as set apart by law for the officers and soldiers, and then proceed to survey on the northwest side of the Ohio river, between the Scioto and Little Miami rivers, until the deficiency of lands to satisfy all military bounties should be fully and amply made up.
     Pursuant to this act of the legislature, the deputation of the officers of the continental line, consisting of Major General Charles Scott, Brigadier General Daniel Morgan, Col. William Heth, Lieutenant Col. Benjamin Tempte, and Capt. Mayo Carrington, elected Col. Richard C. Anderson to the office of Principal Surveyor of the bounties of land to be entered for the officers and soldiers of that line.  A contract dated ___ 17, 1783, was also entered into between Col. Anderson and the deputations of officers, regulating the fees of the surveyor, and other matters contracted with the business.
     In the spring or summer of 1784, Col. Anderson moved to Kentucky, and, purchased a farm near ___sville, where he finally established his residence, and gave ___ the appropriate name of "Soldiers' Retreat."  On the 20th of July, of the same year, he opened his office for the purpose of having entries and surveys made of the lands in the Kentucky reservation.  Previous to this, however, on the 1st day of March, 1784, Virgiia, by her delegates has ceded to the United States, her territory northwest of the Ohio, as a common fund for the benefit of all the States, reserving, however, the country lying between the Scioto and Little Miami rivers to be appropriated for the purpose of satisfying the continental line warrants, in case the land reserved in Kenctucy should not be sufficient for that purpose.  The deficiency of good land in Kentucky was soon discovered, and the attention of the holders of land warrants and the land speculators was turned to towards the reservation northwest of the Ohio.
     This portion of our State, known and called as before stated, by the name of the Virginia Military District, was supposed from its position and situation to possess many advantages, and the holders of warrants and land speculators, were anxious to locate their warrants on the Ohio side of the river.
     In the winter and spring of 1787, Major John O'Bannon and Authur Fox, two enterprising surveyors of Kentucky, passed over into this district to obtain a knowledge of the country, so soon as the office should be opened for that purpose.  They explored with their companies the whole extent of country along the Ohio, and passed some distance up the Scioto and miami rivers, and some of their tributary streams.
     On the 1st day of August, 1787, Col. Anderson opened the office for receiving the entries of lands in the district, at which time entries of the bottoms of the Ohio were made, and also a large portion of the Scioto and Little Miami rivers.  About that time, or shortly before, several expeditions from Kentucky made excursions into the district, for the purpose of destroying the Indian towns.  Simon Kenton, a name celebrated among backwoodsmen, was along in almost all of these expeditions, and returning home attempted some entries of lands, in which he was not successful, on account of his want of sufficient skill in making them.
     So soon as it was known to Congress, that entries had been made in the district northwest of Ohio, by virtue of the continental warrants, an act was passed in July, 1788, by which it was resolved, that Congress would consider all locations and surveys made on account of the troops, between the Scioto and Little Miami, as invalid, until the deficiency on the southeastern side of the Ohio should be ascertained and stated to Congress; and the Executive of Virginia was requested to inform Congress of the deficiency, if any, and the amount of it.  This act, together with the danger apprehended from Indians, obstructed further entries and surveys in the district until an act of Congress, passed in August, 1790, repealed the act of July 1788, which removed all difficulties as to the entries and surveys, previously or subsequently made.  This act also regulated the mode of obtaining patents, and which was also further amended by the act of 1794, and further subsequent acts.
     A difficulty about the early locations of lands northwest of the Ohio in this district, arose from the ignorance of those engaged, as to the extent of jurisdiction acquired over these lands 1873.  This is shown from the fact that the Governor of Virginia issued patents on a number of surveys in the district.  These patents were of course void, and were subsequently cancelled, and patents issued by the President under the seal of United States.
     For some time, during the prohibition made by the act of Congress of the lands of this district, Massie was engaged in writing in Col. Anderson's office, in order to acquire a complete knowledge of the business of locating and surveying.  His character for dispatch in business and enterprise gained him the friendship and confidence of Col. Anderson, who had control of the warrants placed in his hands by his brother officers and soldiers.  A very large amount of these, so soon as the act of Congress of August, 1790, removed all further obstructions, he placed in the hands of Massie, to enter and survey on such terms as he could obtain from the holders of them.  As the risk of making entries was great, and as it was desirable to obtain the best land, the owners of warrants in most cases, made liberal contracts with the surveyors.  One-fourth, one-third, and sometimes as much as one-half, acquired by the entry of good land, were given by the proprietors to the surveyors.  If the owners preferred paying money, the usual terms were ten pounds, Virginia currency, for each thousand acres entered and surveyed, exclusive of chainmen's expenses.  These terms will not appear extravagant, when we consider that at that time the danger encountered was great, the exposure during the winter was severe, and the price of first rate land in the west was low and any quantity in the market.
     The location of land warrant in this district prior to 1790, were made by stealth.  Every creek which was explored, every line that was run, was at the risk of life from the savage Indians whose courage and perseverance were only equalled by the perseverance of the whites to push forward their settlements.  It was boldness displayed by the Indians in executing their plans, could only be equalled by their fearless onsets in attacks and their masterly retreats when defeated
     The Indians at this time had among them a number of master spirits and it is greatly to be regretted that the history of their exploits is lost forever.  The patient resolution and fortitude with which they contended against superior discipline and numbers, the wiles and strategems displayed by them during their long and bloody wars, proved that they possessed intellectual qualities of the first order.  Their fortitude in enduring pain, fatigue and starvation, was unequalled, except by such of the whites as were long disciplined in the Indian school.
     Besides exposure to the Indians, while surveying, ,the surveyors in the district had other difficulties to encounter.  By passing the Ohio, they placed that river between them and their place of retreat, in ase they were defeated and pursued.  The season of the year, too, chosen by them for surveying was the depth of winter, as they were then more secure from interruption; as the Indians were at that tiem of the year in their winter quarters, and when hunting were found in small bodies.
     With such as these hardy, robust, daring men in the situation of the district as described, Massie, in the fall of 1790, determined to make a settlement in it, that he might be in the midst of his surveying operations and seure his party from danger and exposure.  In order to effect this, he gave general notice in Kentucky of his intention, and offered each of the first twenty-five families that would join him, as a donation, one in-lot and one out-lot, and one hundred acres of land, provided they would settle in a town he intended to lay off at his settlement.  His proffered terms were soon closed in with, and upwards of thirty families joined him.  After various consultations with his friends, the bottom of the Ohio river opposite the three Islands, was selected as the most eligible spot.  Here he fixed his station, and laid off into lots a town, called Manchester.  This name is supposed to have been chosen in remembrance of Manchester, England, the old home of his ancestors.
     This little confederacy, with Massie at the helm, went to work with spirit.  Cabins were raised, and by the middle of March, 1791, the whole town was enclosed with strong pickets, firmly fixed in the ground, with block houses at each angle for defense.
     Thus was the first settlement in Adams county, and the third settlement effected in the bounds of the State of Ohio.  Although this settlement was made in the hottest Indian war, it suffered less from the depredations from Indians, than any one previously made on the Ohio river.  This was no doubt owning to the watchful care and precautions of the brave spirits who guarded the place.
     As soon as the station was completed for defense, the whole population went to work and cleared the lower of the three Islands and planted it in corn.  [There are but two Islands now, one having been washed away by the waters.]  This Island contained 100 acres, was very rich, and produced heavy crops.  The woods with a little industry, supplied a variety of game; deer, elk, buffalo, bears and turkeys, were abundant, while the river furnished a variety of fish.  The wants of the inhabitants, under these circumstances, were few and easily gratified.  Luxuries were entirely unknown, except old Monogahela whisky.  This article was in great demand in those days, and when obtained, freely used.  Coffee and tea were rare articles, not much prized or sought after, and only used to celebrate the birth of a new comer.  The inhabitants of the station were generally playful as kittens, and as happy in their way as their hearts could wish.  The men spent most of their time in hunting and fishing and almost every evening the boys and girls footed it merrily to the tune of the fiddle.  Thus was their time spent in that happy state of indolence and ease, which none but the hunter or herdsman's state can enjoy.  They had no civil officers to settle their dispute nor priests to direct their morals; yet among them crimes were rare occurrence, should and one who chanced to be amongst the prove troublesome, or disturb the harmony of the command his expulsion forthwith would be the consequence; and woe him if he again attempted to intrude himself upon them.  T__ there "are riches above wealth," was evidenced in the lives the citizens of the frontier stations.  There were no rival grad or castes in these small communities, to create envy; in their so___ ty all were equal.  Their hands were buoyant with hope; and when danger was not apparent, they were the happiest, and of course  the richest people on earth.
     The names of the frontier men among themselves were affectionate and familiar.  They addressed each other by their christian names only, which custom still appears to them the most friendly and courteous mode of intercourse.  When one looks back on what the world was then, it seems as if money-making and selfishness had now frozen up the avenues of the heart.  That frank, friendly intercourse, which was the delight and honor of this land, is gone forever, and the cold, calculating spirit of __emulation, or the worthless emm__tion of show and splendor, has succeeded.
    The exact date when Massie laid off his town into lots is not known, but as his contract with those who joined his colony, was executed Dec. 1, 1790, and their removal made, the stockade built and cabins erected therein, by the middle of March, 1791, it is probable the lots were, laid out by that time.  The court records however give the date as Apr. 28, 1802.  The original town was laid off with 108 in-lots and 53 out-lots.  It included that part of the present Manchester above Pike street.  The stockade included some three acres and was the only part

[Page 32] -
occupied for some years.  The land on which it stood now belongs to Harvey McMahan.
     This part of the town, in which all the historic interest of the early settlement centers, was almost wholly consumed by the disastrous fire of Apr. 5, 1860.

MANCHESTER.

     This town was laid out by Nathaniel Massie in 1791, called after Manchester, England, the home of his ancestors.
     These in-lots contain a little over one-fourth of an acre, and the out-lots four acres.

     WEST MANCHESTER - Which is more properly, only an addition to the original town, was laid out by John Donaldson, Stephen W. Compton and G. W. Donaldson, as proprietors, Sept. 16, 1839.  It contains 48 lots, extending west from Pike street, fronting on the river and extending back to Main street.
     Another addition, called the first addition to West Manchester, was made by John Donaldson, May 9, 1849.  It contains 23 lots, lies west of Pike and north of Main street - opposite, and north of the eastern portion of West Manchester.

     YATE'S ADDITION - Was made May 16, 1848, contained 16 lots, lies immediately east of Pike street - north of the Western portion of the old town.  John Yates, proprietor.  It was made from out-lot No. 6, in Massie's original plat.

     REAL ESTATE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY'S ADDITION - This company bought up as many of the original four acre out-lots,  that Gen. Massie laid out, as it could, then cut them up into small lots, and by its trustees, Matthew McColm, ,John Brookover, A. B. Ellison, D. W. Stableton and William Stevenson, as proprietors laid out an addition, known by the above name.
     There were several of these out-lots, that they were unable to buy, which leave vacant squares promiscuously scattered through this part of the town.
     This addition was made Nov. 22d, 1855, and contains452 lots, 196-643.

     HILL'S ADDITION - This addition was laid out at the west end of West Manchester.  It fronts the Ohio river and contains 4 lots, surveyed and platted June 2d 1856.
     Manchester therefore contains 651 lots, as follows:

Massie's original plat 108
West Manchester, by John Donaldson, Stephen W. Compton, G. W. Donaldson, Sept. 16, 1839, numbered 108 - 156 48
Yate's Addition, May 16, 1843, 157-172 - 16 16
John Donaldson's Addition to West Manchester, May 9, 1849 numbered 173-195 23
Real Estate Improvement Company's Addition, Nov. 22, 1855, numbered 196-647 452
Hill's Addition, June 2d, 1858, numbered 648 - 654 4
  ____
     Total number of lots 651
651a  

EARLY HOUSES.

          The first settlers, as before stated, located within the stockade, and their houses were only a few rude cabins.  Fear of the Indians prevented them improving the lands adjoining on the outside of the fort.  The late Andrew Ellison, who was captured in 1793, while working on his out-lot adjoining the stockade, attests the danger.  They therefore cleared off the lower of the three Islands, which from its isolated position - rendered it a place of greater security.  Even with its advantages of situation, guards were kept to watch the approach of any enemy that might attempt to cross over to the Island.  Fortunately the unsurpassed fertility of the soil produced sufficient abundance to supply the garrison with all the necessaries of life.  But few additions were made to the population or business of Manchester, or settle___ made in the country, back from the river, until the crushing __teat of the Indians by Gen. Wayne, in 1794.  After the ___ of Greenville, which relieved the settlements from appre___sion of further trouble from the, settlements began to be made in the interior portions of the county.  Manchester did not improve very rapidly for some years.

EARLY BUSINESS OF MANCHESTER

     The names of the early business men or the dates of their establishments have not been preserved.  The old landmarks here mostly disappeared, as well as the early buildings and houses which were destroyed by the great fire of 1860, so that only a few fragmentary remains of its early history fan now be collected.
     It appears however, that the

FIRST STORE,

     In the place was kept by Andrew Boyd.  The property on which it stood is now owned by Isaac Laporte.  It is believed the store was started previous in 18_2    

THE SECOND STORE

     Was started by Peter Cooley, at an early date.  It was kept in a hewed log building that was weather-boarded.  This house was situated near the old stockade on the land now owned by Hammond Tolle.
     This Mr. Cooley appears to have been long and favorably known as a business man and closely identified with the interests of the town.  The store was carried on until his death in 1843.

THE FIRST TAVERN.

     Was kept by a Mr. McGate, but when he started, or how long he continued it, cannot now be ascertained.  It was perhaps as early as 1804 or 5.  Other similar institutions no doubt followed, for taverns were more numerous in early years than any other class of business houses.

FIRST MILLS

     On account of danger from the Indians, the early settlers, for a few  years did not venture out far enough from the stockade, to avail themselves of the facilities of the streams for building mills.
     The first machinery of the kind was a hand mill put up within the stockade.  With this primitive mill was ground most of the breadstuff used by the inhabitants at first.  The burrs used in it still remain in the village, and are now utilized in making the pavement for the side walk at the upper end of Second street.
     How little do these descendents appreciate the labors of our faithful and patient forefathers, who have borne the burden and heat of the day of trial; who have removed every obstacle from our path, and left every laudable object of ambition with our reach, that they thus desecrate these mementoes of their early but useful labors?
     Manchester being the third place settled in Ohio makes its early history a subject of peculiar interest, not only to the citizens of Adams county, but of the whole nation.  It is interesting, in reading the history of nations, cities now communities, to be able to begin at the starting point, with the name of the first settler, the time when he made it, the exact spot where he located, the kind of cabin or hut in which he first dwelt, then in like manner to trace the business houses and their general history down.  Many of our larger cities, are to-day, able to do this, and it is to be regretted that Manchester, around which centers so much of historic interest to the student of history, as well as to the citizens and general reader, is unable to do the same.  At least the writer, after all his researches, has not been able to establish these points with that definite certainty he so much desired.  He finds but few written records to guide him with their unerring certainty, while the traditions that are preserved, are dim, and more or less contradictory.  His conclusions are drawn, many times, inferentially, as given to the reader, who is left to judge of their correctness.

THE FIRST HOUSE

     The manner in which the first settlement was made, by a colony, the inference that naturally arises, under the circumstances and the situation in which they were placed, is that their efforts were united, as a single individual, or family, that worked for the common good of all - with no separate individual interest in the matter.
     There is little doubt, as their first primary object was protection against outside dangers, particularly the savages that prowled through all the forests round, that their houses were the most primitive kind of cabins, constructed hastily, as they must have been.  Then these cabins were, for still better protections, as horridly enclosed by a stockade of pickets.  Under the pressue of the hurry, not knowing at what moment the Indians might pounce upon them, there was no thought of first, or second or last house, or note or memory of it left.
     Once enclosed with this stockade, the inmates must still have had to exercise the greatest vigialnce against the sudden attacks of the savages who lurked in the adjaceht forest ready by day or night to pick up any of the inmates that might venture a few rods outside its barricades as was experienced by the capture of Ellison, who, in the spring of 1793, was taken almost under the very walls of the fort, as he ventured outside in the early morning.
     As the savages maintained their unabated hostility until they were defeated by Gen. Wayne, in 1794, it is most likely there were no houses built outside the fort until after that event.
     There is a tradition that Cornelius Washburne built the first house in Manchester.
     James McGoveney says his father came to Manchester in 1795, and there were then four or five houses in the town, occupied by the following families or men:
     John Ellison, Andrew Boyd, John McGate, Gen. Massie, Israel Donaldson, Isaac, Joseph and George Edgington, Seth Foster and John Kite.
     (Quere - Were these houses outside of the stockade?)
     Duncan McArthur in a letter in 1796 or '97 speaking of the rapidity with which the town was then growing up, says:  "We now have forty buildings, many of them have hewed logs, some of them with shingle roofs."

FIRST BRICK HOUSE

     The first brick house in Manchester - in fact the first one in Adams county, and the third one in Ohio, was built by John Ellison, in 1807.  It stood near the river, somewhere above the St. Charles Hotel, and was the subject of general conversation as well as the admiration of her citizens - perhaps the envy of some whose means did not permit them to make so aristocratic a display.  Mr. Ellison himself, who was an Irishman, who so delighted with his beautiful house, that he "paddled" his canoe over the river and climbed one of the highest hills on the Kentucky side, to see how it looked at a distance from such a commanding position.  He was perfectly enchanted with is appearance.  He returned home, and eagerly accosting his wife as he met her, he exclaimed,
Mary!  it looks more like a heaven on earth!"
     But alas, Mr. Ellison and his beloved Mary, are both now sleeping their lat long sleep, in narrow houses of clay, their bones mouldering into dust, while their beautiful house of brick, that once caused their hearts to throb with such emotions of delight and happiness, has fallen beneath the destroying flames and it too, has returned to its elemental dust - an impressive lesson upon the transitory and fleeting happiness, of all the joys that earth affords.

FIRST MILL

     The first mill - perhaps in the county, was built by General Massie, on Island creek, two miles from town, and was what he called a "Tub Mill."  A year or so afterward another one was built, about two hundred yards above the first one.  This was a pretty good mill, and ground both wheat and corn, and was considered quite an institution.  It is said that when grinding was to be done, the men would arm and go in a company, and while the grinding was being done, part of them would stand out as pickets or guards, to watch the approach of Indians.  There was a saw mill in connection with this mill, but both have long since disappeared.

FIRST CARDING MILL

     About 1893, Israel Donaldson, started the first carding mill ever built in the county.  It was first started on Front street, S. E. corner of Washington street, in a building owned and occupied by John Fisher a grain and produce dealer, as a warehouse.  Mr. Donaldson afterwards built a new house, on the corner east of Washington street, on the opposite side, to which he moved his carding machinery.  The lower story was for an oil mill, the upper one was used for carding.  The oil mill was only run a few years; the carding ceased in 1832 or '33.
     It was this building in which the great fire of 1860 originated.
     Manchester was incorporated in 1850, by the following act of the legislature, to-wit:

AN ACT

To Incorporate the town of Manchester, in the county of Adams.
     SEC. 1.  Be it Enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, That so much of the township of Sprigg, in the county of Adams, as is included within the following boundaries, to-wit:  Beginning at the southeast corner of John Donaldson's land, on the Ohio river; thence with his lie northwardly about one hundred poles, to Isaac's creek; thence up said creek to the northwest corner of the original survey and plat of the town of Manchester; thence with the north line of said town plat eastwardly, to the west line of Thomas W. Means' land; thence with said Means' line southwardly, to the Ohio river; thence down the river with the southerly boundary of the State of Ohio, to the river with the southerly boundary of the State of Ohio, to the beginning, be, and the same is hereby declared to be a town corporate, by the name of Manchester, and by that name shall be a body corporate and politic, with perpetual succession, and as such shall have all the privileges and be subject to all the limitations, provisions and restrictions of the "Act for the regulation of incorporated towns," passed February 16, 1839, and the acts amendatory thereto.
     SEC. 2.  That the town council of said town, in addition to the powers and privileges granted and conferred by the "act for the regulation of incorporated towns" as aforesaid, shall have power and authority to make, keep in repair and regulate all public buildings, grades and wharves, and wharf-boats belonging to said town; and to fix and regulate the price of landing and wharfage thereto; to require by ordinance the owner or owners of any lot, or parts of lots, to pave the side walks, or to alter amend and keep the same in repair in front of their respective lot or lots, or parts of lots, upon any street within said town, and of such width and in conformity with such grade as of said council shall direct.
     SEC. 3.  That said town shall be a road district, and the labor required by law, to be performed by the inhabitants thereof upon the public roads, and also any tax which may be levied or assessed by, or under the authority of the laws of this State, within the corporate limits of said town, shall be performed and expended upon the streets, alleys and highways within the said town, in such manner and under such regulations as the town council shall direct.
     Abraham Perry was the first Mayor, and Jos. Shriver, first Marshal.  At that time there were probably not more than a half-dozen business houses within the corporation.  Manchester now has a population of 1486, with three churches, six school departments, one bank, one printing office, one telegraph office, three drug stores, one boot and shoe house, two boot and she manufacturers, four millinery stores, two merchant tailors, four physicians, four lawyers, one stove and tin store, one sewing machine establishment, two furniture stores, two undertakers, two soldiers, three photographic galleries, two warehouses,  three jew-

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elers, one planing mill, one saw mill, two flouring mills, one furniture factory, two potteries, two marble works, four cooper shops, one chair factory, two hotels, one bakery, two confectionaries, two livery stables, four blacksmith shops, one broom factory two wagon shops, but not least, three saloons.
     Manchester is the principal business place in Adams county.  It is the main shopping point, to which the farmers take their stock and produce to sell, which gives life and spirit to the business of the place.
     The Manchester gain dealers make an annual purchase of one hundred and fifty thousand bushels.  The yearly shipment of tobacco from that point exceeds five hundred thousand pounds.  A leading dry goods house sells $80,000 worth a year.  Last year  the stock dealers shipped twelve thousand logs.  One of the druggists sold to the amount of $12,000, while the grocery sales amounted to $70,000, and a saddler sold $15,000.  The sales of stoves and tinware are $15,000, and boots and shoes $13,000 annually.

POST OFFICE.

     It is believed that Manchester was the first Post Office in the county.  It was established April 14, 1801.
     The following is a complete list of Postmasters, with the dates of their several appointments:

1801, April 14, Israel Donaldson Appointed
1813, Sep. 27, John Ellison, Jr., "
1815, June 13, John Fisher "
1822, March 29, Joseph McClain, "
1826 April 10, John Fisher, "
1827, Oct. 13, Joseph McClain, "
1829, Oct. 20, David Ellison, "
1831, Sept. 22, William Ellison, "
1833, Dec. 14, Josiah Stout, "
1838, Dec. 20, Henry Coppel, "
1841, July 10, Andrew Livingston, "
1846, Nov. 4, John C. Scott, "
1847, Nov. 4, Cyrus Ellison, "
1853, Jan. 27, Richard B. Case, "
1853, Sept. 1, William Stableton, "
1854, Feb. 7, James McColm, "
1854, Oct. 27, Alexander M. Lang, ,"
1855, Mar. 23, David Dunbar, "
1866, Sept. 27, William L. Vance, "
1867, Mar. 28, Mrs. Martha A. Phillips, "
  Mrs. Phillips is the present incumbent.

BANKS - MANCHESTER

     The first bank in Manchester, was started in 1857, by John Ellison, as a private institution, which he conducted until the establishment of the present National Bank, in June, 1872.
     While Mr. Ellison carried on his private bank, he had associated with him in the institution, R. H. Ellison and Peter Shiras.
    
The capital stock of the present National Bank, is $50,000, in shares of $100 each.  J. P. Ellison, Cashier; W. A. Blair, President; L. Pierce, Vice President.
     Since writing the above, this bank has resolved to close business and wind up its affairs.

HISTORY OF THE LEADING BUSINESS HOUSES

DRY GOODS STORES

W. L. VANCE.

     This is perhaps the largest dry goods store in Adams county, a proprietor commenced selling goods in 1859, in a small way.  His sales have increased until they amount to $80,000 a year.  He deals exclusively in dry goods.

H. M. PALMER

     The house deals in drygoods, boots and shoes.  It has a large trade.  Mr. Palmer commenced business November 12, 1877.

MANCHESTER MILLS - ASHENHUST, ROUSH & CO., PROPRIETORS

     These splendid mills were built by Ashenhust & Foster, in 1869, commencing to grind September 9.  The building is a substantial frame, 40x60, three and a half stories high, furnished with all the modern improvements in machinery, with a 40 horse power _I____ built at a total cost of $12,000.
     T_____ ___ two run of wheat and one run of corn burrs, with _____  __ manufacture 65 to 70 barrels of flour per day.
     Ashenhust & Foster run it until March, 1874, when Mr. Ashenhust' son John Franklin, bought out Foster, and it was run by Ashenhust & Son, until December 6, 1875, when Alexander Roush bought one-fourth interest in the establishment, ____ which, it has been run under the name of
Ashenhust, Roush & Co.

OLIVE FLOURING MILLS - RICE & SOY PROPRIETORS

     These mills were originally commenced in 1840, by John and G. W. Donaldson, sons of Israel Donaldson.  The progress of the work was interrupted by the death of G. W. Donaldson, who lost his life while trying to remove the goods from the burning house of his brother John.  It was then leased to Walter Scott, who completed it, put in the machinery and run it two years, when Ellison & McColm, bought it.  They run it three years and sold to Bently.  After passing through several hands it was finally bought in 1877, by Ebenezer Rice & Son, the present proprietors who do a general merchant flouring business.  It has a capacity of forty barrels a day.

NURSERY.

JOHN BIGGAR.

     Mr. Biggar has been engaged all his life in the nursery business, raising and selling fruit and ornamental trees of all kinds.  He commenced business on his own account, across the river in Kentucky, in 1855, removed to Manchester in 1877, where he has the most extensive nursery in the country.

POTTERIES

JOHN PARKES

     This establishment was started by Parkes & Chamberlain in May 1846.  It was carried on Twenty-two years under this firm, when Mr. Chamberlain retired, Mr. Parkes becoming sole proprietor, erected the buildings he now occupies, in which he has continued to the present time, making thirty-three years in all, that he has followed the business.  He has experienced the fact that steady perseverance will build up any legitimate business.  When he commenced, he could make, alone, more ware than he could sell.  After twelve years, ten men cannot manufacture enough to supply and demand.

FURNITURE.

D. D. CLINTON

     Was born in Adams County, in 1827; has been engaged in the furniture trade since 1847.  He has been a leading dealer in the business for thirty-two years, and has made it a success.  He has been an active, energetic man, interested in all public enterprises.

BLACKSMITH SHOPS,

J. D. WHITE

     Came here in 1876, and carries on a general blacksmithing business.  He resides on Front street, and is a member of the city council.

G. W. CURRY

     Carries on the blacksmithing business in all its branches.  He commenced business here in 1876.

HOTELS.

ST. CHARLES - DAVID CHARLES, PROPRIETOR.

     This house was commenced in 1838, by John McNary, who died before its completion.  It remained in an unfinished condition for ten years, then passed into the hands of Charles Stevenson, who completed it and started a tavern in it, which he carried on for some years, then sold to Nathan Ellis.  Daniel Denning was the next proprietor.  He sold to William Walker Walker entered the army and died of small pox in 1832, at Louisville, Kentucky.  While Walker was in the army, the house was run by his son-in-law, Jesse Kimball.  After Walker's death David Charles became the owner and has since continued it as a hotel.

McDAID HOUSE

     The first building was a frame house which was burnt down when completed.  The proprietor, M. V. Cropper, then (1858) built a brick on the same foundation.  Mr. Cropper afterwards sold to Samuel Woodland G. W. Sample, who conducted the hotel untl 1862, when Robert McDaid became proprietor, since whose death it has been run by the widow and John McDaid.

J. W. & S. J. TRENARY,

     Manufacturers of lumber, lath, lining, tobacco hogsheads, & C.; also, buyers of walnut, hemlock and poplar lumber.  All kinds of seasoned lumber for building purposes, sawed to order.

LODGE NO. 317 OF F. AND A. M. OF MANCHESTER

     The Lodge was organized May 16, 1859, by dispensation.  Officers appointed by the R. W. Grand Master, May 16, 1859; Henry Y. Coppel, Worshipful Master; Benjamin Bowman Senior Warden; James Brittingham Junior Warden.

OFFICERS UNDER DISPENSATION, APPOINTED BY W. M.

     William L. McCalla, Treasurer; David Dunbar, Secretary; William A. Shriver, Senior Deacon; George W. Sample, Junior Deacon; Perry T. Connelly, Tyler.
     A charter was granted Oct. 20, 1859, and under that instrument an election was held Nov. 7, 1859, and the following officers elected:  James N. Brittingham, W. M.; G. W. Sample S. W.; A. B. Ellison, J. W.; W. A. Shriver, Treasurer; David Dunbar, Secretary; J. W. Pownall, S. D.; T. D. Parker, J. D.; P. T. Connelly, Tyler.

MANCHESTER CHAPTER NO. 129

     Dispensation granted June 29, 1471.  Charter granted September 26, 1871.

ORIGINAL MEMBERS

     A. T. Wikoff, W. B. Cole, R. A. Stephenson, A. P. Pownall, Harrison, Warner E. C. Pollard, R. S. Daily, Phomas* P. Foster, J. P. Bloomhuff, G. G. Games, John Sparks, John M. Freeman, M. S. Jeffries, R. M. Owens, Thomas M. Games, Nathaniel Massie.

OFFICES UNDER THE DISPENSATION

     Thos. Foster, H. P.; R. A. Stephenson, S.; E. C. Pollard, P. S.; J. P. Bloomhuff, M. e. V.; R. S. Daily, M. 2 V.; G. G. Games, Treasurer;  T. M. Games, K.; H. Warner, C. of H.; A. P. Pownall, R. A. C.; R. M. Owens, M. w v.; N. Massie, Secretary; J. M. Freeman, G.

OFFICERS ELECTED NOV. 30, 1871

     T. P. Foster, H. P.; R. A. Stephenson, S.; E. C. Pollard, P. S.; D. Pennywitt, M. 3 V.; H. Warner, 1 V.; H. J. Kimble, T.; T. N. Games, K.; L. Foster, C. of H.; D. D. Cluxton, R. A. C.; J. N. Higgins, M. 2 V.; D. Dunbar, Secretary; E. M. Carey, G.

DE KALB LODGE NO. 138 I. O. O. F. - WEST UNION, O.

     Charter granted by Grand Lodge of Ohio, July 19, 1849, to David Greenlee, John Harsha, Joseph Hayslip, William M. Meek, and Francis Shinn, and was instituted by Grand Master, Alexander E. Glenn October 13, 1849.
     The Lodge continued in good standing until July 20, 1855, during which time there were admitted by card and initiation, thirty members.  There were withdrawn by card, twelve; died, three; expelled, one; leaving at the time of its removal to Manchester nineteen members.
     For some cause not known to the writer, the Grand Lodge, at its February session, 1856, resolved to remove the De Kalb Lodge from West Union to Manchester.
     In accordance with this resolution, it was instituted at Manchester, by George B. Baily, special D. D. G. M., July 31, 1856, with nineteen members, removed from West Union.
     The following officers were elected at the first meeting:
     Henry Oursler, N. G.; Joseph W. Hayslip, V. G.; Isaac Eakins, Secretary; C. C. Cooley Treasurer.
From the institution of this Lodge to date, there have been initiated...... 124 members.

Admitted by card 27 members
Withdrawn by card 47 members
Expelled 3 members
Died 15 members
Dormant members 37 - 102 members

     This Lodge is in good financial condition, having considerable of money loaned and in the hands of the Treasurer.  It also owns a beautiful Odd Fellows Cemetery, valued at $1,000.
     Present officers:  John Kenton Dunbar, N. G.; J. Phillips Hundly, V. G.; John McCutcheon, R. Secretary; D. Robinson Shriver, Per. Secretary; J. W. Allison, Treasurer.
 

MANCHESTER ENCAMPMENT, 203, I. O. O. F.

     Charter granted May 3, 1876, by the Grand Encampment of Ohio.  The Lodge was instituted June 13, 1876 by W. R. Marshall Grand Patriarch of Ohio.  The charter members were George Lowery, D. R. Shriver. J. W. Ebrite, I. K. Russell, John McCutcheon, Washburn Trenary, L. L. Conner, J. W. Eylar, J. H. Stevenson, S. J. Lawwill, J. W. Bunn, Washington Kimble.
     The following officers were elected at the first meeting:
     D. R. Shriver, Chief Patriarch; George  Lowery, high Priest; John McCutcheon, S. W.; J. H. Stephenson Scribe; S. J. Lawwill, Treasurer; I. K. Russell, J. W.

PRESENT CONDITION

Charter members ___
Initiated 1__
  _____
  3__
Withdrawn by car 10
Died 1
Expelled 1 - 12
  _____
     May 31st, 1880 18

     The Lodge is in good financial condition - no debts.

PRESENT OFFICERS

     W. P. Peyton, C. P.; W. H. Cooper, H. P.; W. G. Frow, S. W.; D. R. Shriver, Scribe; John McCutcheon, Treasurer; J. P. Duffy, J. W.

MANCHESTER SCHOOLS.
By Lucien J. Fenton

     The first settlers of Manchester were not unmindful of the fact that education is a necessary concomitant of civilization, and thus we find them taking means immediately after founding the village, to secure its benefits for their posterity.
     The first building for school purposes was erected about the year 1794, near the southeast corner of the old cemetery lot, some distance from where the Presbyterian church now stands.  It was truly a primitive structure, built of logs, having one door and two windows.  The latter were made by cutting out a log from

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each side of the building, thus having two long, narrow spaces, one of which was filled with a row of eight by ten glass, and the other with oiled paper.  The fire-place occupied the greater portion of one end of the house and was of sufficient capacity to admit logs of wood five or six feet in length.   The floor was composed of puncheons, so were the seats, also, by putting in logs of sufficient length; (backs were not in use.)  It is impossible to ascertain who was the first to wield the ferule in this log seminary, but it is not improbable that Israel Donaldson was one of the earliest Instructors of the youth of our forest primeval.  The names of but few of the teachers of the log school house period are known, and comparatively little is known touching the character of the instruction given; but the fact is pretty well established, that the instructors of this time had an abiding faith in the virtue of the hickory sprout as a mental stimulus, as well as an instrument of moral regeneration.  Indeed it would seem that corporal punishment was regarded as a kind of necessary branch of physical education by our worthy ancestors.  Some teachers of this period taught what were called "Loud schools" in which all study and communication were carried on aloud.  The din and confusion this caused, especially by the "big boys" studying the spelling lesson, can be better imagined than described.  The text books of the time include Webster's Spelling Book, the English Reader, and Pike's Arithmetic, which was used to "cipher" in, generally, so far as the "rule of three."  About the year 1818, it seems that Murray's Elements of English Grammar, a small volume, was studied by a few of the more ambitious pupils.  There is no evidence that Geography was ever taught in the old log building.
     Far be it from the purpose of the writer to cast the least obloquy upon the labors of our pioneer teachers.  They were, many of them, nature's noblemen; they wrought a best they could and their works do follow them.
     Wm. Dobbins taught the first term in the log school house.  It is related of him, that on giving to school one morning he found himself "barred out," in common parlance, on account of his failure to treat the pupils to candies, etc., but with the aid of a rail Mr. Dobbins son effected an entrance, and then proceeded to thrust the refractory boys into the open air through the paper window before mentioned.  After having restored order he supplied them with the coveted sweetmeats.  About the year 1828, the log school house was replaced by a small brick building, which, although an improvement on its predecessor, was by no means an imposing specimen of architecture.  The furniture consisted of a few long desks adjoining the walls, for the use of the larger pupils, while the seats for the smaller children were made of rough slabs, and were without backs.  James Smith, afterward a member of the Ohio Legislature, taught the first term in the new building.  He was succeeded by J. T. Crapsey, who in turn was followed by Wm. Robe, afterward a noted surveyor.  The following named persons are said to have taught in Manchester while this building was in use:  Jane Dickenson, Jane Williamson, Andrew Crawford, George Burgess, Robert Buck, David Pennywitt, John Pennywitt, Edward Burbage, Thomas Hayslip, R. R. Case, Andrew Mannen, William McCalla, also, a man named Clark, another by the name of Parker Douglass.  There were many others, but their names are unknown.  Mr. McCalla was connected with the schools of Manchester for several consecutive years, and is spoken of in kindly terms by his former pupils as a faithful and efficient teacher.  He certainly labored under great disadvantages, since it is said that he sometimes had from eighty  to one hundred pupils under his immediate tuition at the same time, variously advanced from the elapsing abecedarian to the ambitious student of surveying.  To give a detailed account of the growth and character of the schools during the period of the little brick house is beyond the province of this sketch, but a few points will be briefly noticed.  Many of the teachers of that time were by nature endowed with superior intellectual faculties, which were reasonably well developed by culture, yet their labors were not crowned with that degree of success which their untiring zeal and unselfish motives deserved.  Teachers seldom remained more than a single term in a place at that time, and it is presumed that Manchester is no exception to the rule, but changed teachers so often that any systemized plan of school work was rendered impossible.  As in the former period, so in this, the rod seems to have occupied a conspicuous place in the enforcement of discipline.  It was used indiscriminately, without regard to age or sex, as the offense seemed to demand.  Yet with all this, the discipline was far from being good.  Many amusing anecdotes are told concerning the pranks of the mischievous youths of that time; but no doubt the cause was a lack of the moral support of public opinion, rather than the fault of the teachers.  Y__ __ ____ be admitted that some of these teachers were f___es ____ may have been employed to teach because the stood in ___ __ the little money it brought them; others because they were of so little account in this or any other capacity that they could be got for almost nothing.
     The only official record of this period is from the year 18_3 to 1856, its close.  The record of the meeting of the Board of Education, of which John Parks was Chairman and A. M. Long, Clerk, Oct. 17, 1853, shows that it was then decided to have "two schools" or departments in the district after said date.  The record of the first meeting for 1854, shows that an order was drawn on the Treasurer in favor of Wm. McCalla for seventy-eight dollars for services rendered as teacher during the period of three months.  About the same time it is shown that the whole nuber of pupils in the school studying arithmetic, was twenty-one; number studying geography, was sixteen; number studying grammar, seven.  No higher branches were taught, at least according to the records.  The entire enrollment of youths of school age in the district at this time was two hundred and eighty-three.  The record of the Board meeting of Feb. 28, 1854, shows that I. J. Jones and others conveyed to the School Board, in consideration of the sum of one hundred and fifty dollars, one acre from the west end of out-lot number eighteen.  At the meeting of May 8, 1854, it was decided to levy a tax of eight hundred dollars for the erection of a new school house.  On the 4th of May, 1855, the Board entered into a contract with various parties to do the stone work, brick work, and carpenter work of a new school house, to be fifty-feet long, twenty four feet wide, and the lower story to be eleven feet high and the upper to be ten feet high.  It appears that said building was completed and received from the contructors some time during the latter part of the year 1855, or the beginning of the year following.  At a meeting of the Board of Education, June 16, 1856, of which J. B. Evans was Chairman, and

Wm. Stevenson, Clerk, the following resolution was adopted:  "That the school be suspended at the end of the present session,  and that measures to be taken to procure a first rate teacher, to bead the school, to commence with the fall term."  At a meeting June 23, 1856, orders were issued on the Treasurer in favor of A. J. Mannen, A. W. Hempleman and Miss L. Gates, the teachers who closed the period of the little brick building.
    
As a preliminary step toward a reorganization of the schools, the following notice was given to the citizens of Manchester, Aug. 11, 1856: "The qualified voters of Manchester Special School District, will convene at the school house in said district, on Saturday, Aug. 23, 1856, at 6 o'clock P. M., and then and there take into consideration the propriety of establishing a graded or Union School in said district, and voting on the same as authorized by an "act" passed Feb. 1, 1849, for the better regulation of schools in cities, towns and villages.  Signed by D. M. McConaughy, J. N. Wood, S. R. Wood, A. M. Lang, J. N. Brittingham, James Mott and L. Pierce.
     On the day specified in the notice a meeting was held, and a vote taken, which resulted in favor of the proposed change by a majority of thirty-nine votes.  After due notice, an election was held Sept 6, 1856, to choose six directors, as provided by the law of 1849, at which time John B. Enness and Lacy Payton were elected for three years; David Gillespie and Dr. Joseph Stableton for two years; and David Dunbar and John Parks, for one year.  The first meeting under the "new dispensation" was held Aug. 9, 1858, and organized by electing J. B. Enness, Chairman, and David Danbar, Clerk.  At this meeting the "first rate teacher to head the school," as per former resolution, was employed in the person of John McClung, whose salary was fixed at fifty dollars per month.  Son after this time the Board appointed Dr. D. M. McConaughy, Dr. D. W. Stableton and Dr. Martin, as local examines for the district.
     Although the schools, after the reorganization of 1856 were known as graded schools, there is no evidence that any measures were taken to establish a course of instruction, or to reduce the general school work to any special system, by which a standard might be fixed for a pupil to reach in one room or department, in order to be transferred to the next higher, until a period of almost twenty years had elapsed.  The so-called grading was left to the principals and teachers from year to year, and as the many different persons who acted in said capacities entertained various opinions as to the standard of scholarship necessary for promotion of pupils from department of department, and, also, had different views as to what branches should be should not be taught, it is not strange that the schools of this time, notwithstanding the fact that many excellent teachers had been connected therewith, did not reach that standard of proficiency which the projectors had so fondly aaticipated.  There can be no doubt that one of the chief hindrances to the success of the schools was the frequent change of teachers, especially principals.  From the year 1856 to 1875, the Manchester schools had fifteen different persons acting in the capacity of Principal, during which period the average term of service was less than one and one-third school years.  Within a period of nineteen years, (1856 to 1875) the following named persons had charge of the schools: John McClung, M. J. Lewis, W. W. Ramsay, James Williams, J. Gregg, J. L. Craig, G. W. Herrick, Wm. Coleman, J. B. Jones, S. T. Kenyon, J. P. Norris, A. N. Stowell, A. L. Mahaffey, James McColm, J. H. Compton.  Lewis served three years, Ramsay, Herrick and McColm, each two years, while one year or less, covered the term served by each of the others.  It was scarcely possible that any special system could have been adhered to under such unfavorable circumstances, had it even been inaugurated; yet some of these teachers did excellent work, while others merely "put in the time" without attempting to arouse any enthusiasm on the part of the pupils.  It was in the fall of 1875, that the Board of Education, then consisting of C. Flanagan, D. R. Shriver, C. E. Kirker, W. T. Peyton, R. H. Ellison and J. P. Ellison, determined, that if possible, the schools be graded in fact as well as in name.  They accordingly caused a course of instruction to be arranged nominally covering a period of twelve years; nine in the primary and grammar grades, and three in the High School.  This course of instruction was formally adopted January 3d, 1876.  In the grades below the High School the common English branches are taught, including United States history.  The Studies of the High School included Algebra, Physical Geography, Latin, General History, Plane and Solid Geometry, Natural Philosophy, Physiology, Botany, Chemistry, English Literature, Rhetoric, and a review of common branches.
     This curriculum went into effect immediately, and was found to inspire such a zeal for knowledge among the pupils as had never before been known.  Two classes have graduated from the High School.  The class of 1878 consisted of John K. Stableton, Edward E. Hopkins, Dudley B. Phillips, Mary Lang, Cora Phillips and Anna B. Peyton.  The class of 1879 consisted of Wm. W. Stableton, Cordulia Scott, Nettie Peyton, Fannie Phillips and Ella McCutchen.
     The present Board of Education consists of A. J. McIntire, D. R. Shriver, W. T. Peyton, J. P. Ellison, Dr. R. A. Stephenson and S. B. Charles.  Lucien J. Fenton has been Principal from the year 1875 to the present time, (1880).  Since the grading of the schools in 1876, the following named teachers have served acceptably in the different departments:  Thomas M. Games, J. H. Thomas, Mary M.  Wilson, Lucinda E. Stableton, John Rea, Julia Trent, Sallie Billings, Mary Lang, Anna Peyton and Cordulia Scott.
     There are now six departments in the school numbering in all 380 pupils.  In conclusion it may be added that the Manchester schools have done a good work in the past, and promise well for the future, if wisely managed and property supported by an intelligent public.
     The writer acknowledges his indebtedness to Captain James Little, Mr. C. C. Cooley and Mr. Calvin Montgomery, for valuable data in preparing this brief sketch.

CHURCHES

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH - MANCHESTER

     This is one of the oldest churches of the county, but the date of its formation cannot be ascertained with any approximation to certainty.  It is probable that the first preaching , which led to its organization was held by Rev. William Williamson, under the spreading branches of some elm trees, that stood at the lower end of town, previous to 1806.  It is inferred that a church building was erected prior to 1814, as the church was incorporated by an act of the Legislature, on the 19th day of January, 1814, with William Williamson, Israel Donaldson, William Means, Richard Rounsaville?? and John Ellison, Sen., as incorporators.
     The next church building of which we can find any record, was erected in 1845, at a cost of $1,100.  Reynolds & Daugherty were the contractors.
     Rev. William Williamson, the first pastor, continued his labors twenty-five years.  He was followed by the following list of ministers, some of whom were only temporary supplies, while others served from two to six years.  Rev. S. C. Rutter, five years; Rev. John McDonald, two years; Revs. T. S. Williamson, Joseph Chester, William Kephart, Dyer Burgess, John P. Vandyke, Jesse Lockhart, W. H. Rodgers and John P. Hills, six years; E. Brainard, three years; A. Thompson, six and a half years; David Vandyke, _____ Urmston, William Coleman, R. B. Herron, two years; R. T. Drake, two years; D. s. Anderson, two years; I. R. Gibson, three and a half years.  Augustus Taylor present pastor, who commenced his labors in November, 1875, now in the fifth year of his pastorate.
     The following have been the ruling elders in the church William Ellison, Charles Stephenson, James Kirker, Nathaniel Montgomery, Israel Donaldson, John Anderson, Robert Strong, John Means, ro_ Campbell, Ralph Voris, William Cunningham.  C. M. Keith, Dr. G. W. Martin, George Pettitt, Davis D. Clinton, John Ellison and
William Stevenson.

METHODIST PROTESTANT CHURCH.

     This church was organized January 19th, 1869, with twenty-six members, by Rev. George Brown, D. D., officiating minister, David Pennywitt, leader, and W. H. Pownall assistant.  Stewards, Reuben Pennywitt, L. L. Conner, Joseph Stableton.  Trustees, Joseph Connell, Edwin Butters, Isaac H. Hill.
    
The members organizing this church were D. Pennywitt, Tamor Pennywitt, W. H. Pownall, D. W. Stableton, Mary Stableton, D. J. Stableton, Lucinda Stableton, R. Pennywitt, Jane Pennywitt, Joseph C. Pownall, Mary Pownall, Martha A. Pownall, L. L. Connell, Elizabeth Connell, Ruth A. Vaughn, James R. Vaughn, Joseph Connell, Jane C. Connell, Joseph Stableton, Julia A. Chamberlain, John Parkes, Sarah Parkes, Isaac H. Hill, Edmund Butters, Margaret Edgington, Harriet Clark, Jozella Naylor, Harriet B. Collings, Alexander Fleming, Alvira Flemming, Tillie Flemming.
    
In 1870 they built a frame house, 37x60, at a cost of $2,400.  It was dedicated by Rev. M. V. B. Ewing, assisted by Rev. George Brown, D. D.
    
Ministers: 
     1st, Rev. J. C. Caddy, from March to the fall of

 

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1879?.
     James Litten,
     _____ McFarland.
     A. M. Ravenscraft,
     T. D. Horn,
     John W. Spring,
     W. F. Dickerman.
Present pastors:
     A. M. Ravenscraft,
     A. A. Manson.
     Present number of members, 135

M. E. CHURCH

     After diligent search, we are unable to gather anything of the history of this church.  The pastor was engaged to continue the research, and after a lapse of over two months, writes:
     "I have made diligent inquiry concerning the early history of the M. E. church in Manchester, and I cannot find any one who knows enough about the matter to give a meager sketch."

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

OLIVER ASHENHUST

     This gentleman is of Irish descent.  His grandfather, William Ashenhust, was born in the county Tyrone, Ireland, where he married.  He emigrated to America at an early day, and settled in Washington county, Pennsylvania, where his children grew up, and most of them married.  He reared a family of five children, two sons and three daughters, all of them born in Ireland but the youngest one, Oliver, who was born on their passage to this country.  Mr. Ashenhust, finally moved to Brown county, Ohio, where he lived and died at the age of ninety-five, his wife dying at the age of ninety-six years.  Mr. Ashenhust's children all came with him to Brown county, and settled near him.  John the eldest son of William Ashenhust, married Mary Young.  They were the parents of eight children, three sons and five daughters, all of whom grew up to the years of maturity and married.  Oliver, the youngest of these children, is the subject of this sketch.  He married Susan Parker in November, 1846.  By this marriage, he had one daughter, named Samantha, who married John Clinger.  They live on Island creek, Monroe township.  Mr. Ashenhust's wife died, and he married for a second wife, Amy Phibbs.  By this marriage he has reared a family of nine children, three sons and six daughters, named John F., Julius Melancthon, James Oliver, Mary Margaret, Elizabeth, Ella, Myrtle, Lulu Maud, and Minnie May.  Of these children, John F. married Clara Leedom, and is engaged in the milling business in Ironton.  Julius M. married Alice Charles, and is also engaged in the milling business in Ironton.  The others are unmarried, and remain at home.  Oliver Ashenhust's father died in Wayne county, Ohio, aged eighty-five.  His mother died in Chase city, Mecklenburg county, Va., aged ninety.  Of his four grand parents, his parental grandfather and grandmother died aged ninety-five and ninety-six, respectively, while his maternal grandfather was one hundred and ten his maternal grandmother was ninety-three, at the time of their decease, the average age of the four grandparents being ninety-eight and one half years.

PETER COOLEY

was born in Winchester, Va., about the year 1788; removed with his step-father, John Lodwick, when about six years old, and settled on Eagle creek, Adams county, in 1794 or '95.  Here he lived until he was fifteen years of age, when Mr. Lodwick bound him to a man in Washington, Ky., to learn the saddle and harness trade.  There he remained until he was twenty-one, when he came to Manchester and opened the first saddle and harness shop in the county.  He carried on the business several years, when he commenced the dry goods and grocery business, his store being the second one opened in Manchester.  He remained in the dry goods business until his death in 1843.  In March, 1812, he raised a company of volunteers, was elected Captain, and marched his company with General Harrison's army against the British and Indians.  He was married in 1810 to Miss Nancy Perry, by the Rev. William Williamson.  They commenced housekeeping as soon as married in the same room he used for his harness shop.  Their cooking utensils consisted of a skillet and two lids, both broken.  Every Sunday they indulged in the luxury of a cup of coffee which was made in a tin cup.  In the course of time they had nine children.  At the time of Mr. Cooley's death he had accumulated enough property to give his seven surviving children a good start in life.  Five of his children are yet living.  Three sons and one daughter are in Manchester - one son is in the West.

JAMES CONNER

The subject of this sketch is of Irish descent.  His father, Peter Conner, came from Ireland and settled in Manchester in 1791.  In 1798, he settled a farm on the Maysville and Chillicothe road, three miles west of Manchester, where he lived to the time of his disease in 1826.  His son, James Conner, was born and grew to manhood, on this farm.  In 1832, he married Miss Margaret Boyles and in 1834 bought the old homestead on which he lived until 1874, when he sold it and removed to Manchester, where he now resides.  He reared a family of four children, one son and three daughters, all of whom survive and are married.  The son, James H. Conner, is the present treasurer of Adams county.

ISRAEL DONALDSON

whose history is so intimately connected with the early business of Adams county, was born in Greenwich, Cumberland county, New Jersey, Feb. 2, 1767.  In 1684 he removed to Ohio county, West Virginia, where he remained until 1790, engaged in farming and teaching school.  In May of that year, he took passage on a flat boat for Kentucky, arriving in Limestone - now Maysville - June 1.  He taught school at that place during the summer, and early in 1791 came to Manchester and joined Gen. Massie in surveying.  For many years of his life, Mr. Donaldson appears to have been engaged in various business enterprises in and about Manchester, and did much to aid in developing the material resources and building up the prosperity of the place.  He was a man of the strictestintegrity - endowed with greata business capacities, and commanded the confidence and respect of his fellow citizens everywhere.  When the call for a Convention, to frame a Constitution for the new State of Ohio was made, he was elected by his fellow-citizens as a delegate from Adams county, which trust he discharged with credit to himself and  honor to his county.  He served in General Wayne's army in the campaign against the Indians in 1794, wintering with it near where Greenville now stands.  He volunteered under the general call in the war of 1812; but as more men answered to that call than were needed, he was one of the number sent back after an absence of three or four months.  He was a member of the Presbyterian church for upward of sixty years, and a ruling elder for many years.  Through  a long life he was always governed by the religion he professed and was a consistent christian.  He died Feb. 9, 1860,and lies buried in the Presbyterian cemetery at Manchester.  He married Miss Annie Pennywitt, Nov. 15, 1798.  There being no marriage laws in Ohio at that time, these parties had to go over to Kentucky to have the ceremony performed.  These parents reared a family of seven children, three sons and four daughters: Sarah B., born Aug. 11, 1800; Mary B., born Aug. 6, 1802; Harriet, born Nov. 17, 1804; Joseph, born June 6, 1807; John, born Aug. 10, 1810; George W., born Aug. 9, 1814; Eveline B., born July 7, 1817; Sarah B. died in early years; Mary B. married Robert Herron,  and is now living a widow in Eckmanville; Harriet A. married S. W. Compton, and now lives in Rome, Adams county, Ohio; Joseph, married Caroline Bagley in 1828, and removed in 1836 to Canton, Fulton county, Illinois, and engaged in the practice of medicine and died there in 18___; John, married Clarinda Ellis in 1844, and lives in Brown county, Ohio, is engaged in farming; George W. lost his life Aug. 30, 1847, in attempting to remove the goods from the burning house of his brother John in Manchester; Eveline, married George B. Clark, Apr. 19, 1841.  She died in 1851.

W. T. PEYTON

The Peyton family is of Scotch origin.  The ancestors of W. T. Peyton, came at an early day, and settled in Loudon county, Virginia, but the first reliable account we get, is of the grand-father, who lived, married and died there.  He reared a family of seven children, three sons and four daughters.  Four of these children, three sons and one daughter, came West, and settled in different parts of Ohio.  One of the sons, named Lacey, who was born May 5, 1816, married Eliza Jones in 1838, and a few years afterwards moved to Adams county, O., and settled at Louisville, a little village near Marble Furnace.  After remaining there a few years, he removed to North Liberty, where his wife died.  By this marriage he raised four children, three sons and one daughter, William T., Townsend, Margaret and Charles.  For a second wife, Mr. Peyton married Nancy Purcell by whom he had a daughter named Jennie.  His second wife died, and he married for a third one, a lady named Catharine Monroe of Allegheny City, Pa.  He then moved to Manchester, where he remained a few years, but finally settled in Harrison county, Iowa, where he yet resides.  By this last marriage, Mr. Peyton has reared a family of eight children, seven sons and one daughter.  Of Mr. Peyton's children by his first wife but two now survive, William T. and Charles.  William T., who is the subject of this sketch, was born in Loudon county, Va., Jan. 13, 1838.  He  received his education mostly at North Liberty.  In 1855, he commenced the study of medicine with the Drs. Stableton of Manchester, but before finishing his full course of studies, he commenced selling drugs and medicines in a small way at first, but the sales increased so rapidly, that it soon engrossed his whole time he has devoted his whole attention to the business of druggist.  He trade has continually increased, until he now has the largest establishment of the kind in the county.  William T. Peyton married Jennie Gates, Dec. 31, 1857.  They are the parents of five children, two sons and three daughters, to-with: Edwin Harold, born Apr. 20, 1850; Nettie Bianche, born Aug. 27, 1860; Frank Ray, born June 1, 1863; Ada May born July 19, 1865, and Kate Leonora, born May 5, 1868; all living but the oldest.  Harry as Edwin was called, was drowned, while bathing in the Ohio river, July 27, 1879, aged 20 years, 7 months and 3 days.  He was a devotee of science; was specially interested in the subject of archeology, and had gathered one of the best collections of the mound -builders remains to be found in the State.  His untimely death is a loss to the country and world, as well as to his relatives and friends.

ABRAHAM PERRY

The subject of this sketch was born in Washington county, O., Feb. 3, 1808; was married Nov. 4, 1830, to Elizabeth EllisThey were the parents of eighteen children, but two of whom survive - one son and one daughter.  He came to Adams county in 1825, and kept wharf boat, forward carried on the mercantile business; was extensively engaged in the flour trade, doing a commission business.  He has frequently been called to fill important public trusts.  He was elected the first Mayor of Manchester; has filled the office of Justice of the Peace for a number of years; was appointed by President Lincoln, Deputy United States Marshal for the Southern District of Ohio, which position he held two terms.

J. A. LOUGHRIDGE

The father of our subject, William Loughridge, was born in Tyrone, county, Ireland, in 1771, and emigrated to America in 1803, and settled in Carlisle, Pa., where he remained until 1807, when he removed to Adams county, and settled in Monroe township, on the head waters of Island creek, on the farm now owned by M. F. Wade, where he lived and died, in 1851.  He reared a family of nine children, five sons and four daughters.  Only two of those children now survive.  W. B. Loughridge, who lives in Indiana, and J. A. Loughridge, who lives in Manchester.

ALEXANDER ROUSH

The subject of this sketch was born in Sprigg township, June 27, 1847.  His ancestry is given in the biography of William Roush, of that township.  He was married to Miss Olivine Pence, November 16, 1871.  By this marriage there were born unto him two children:  Henry, born Sept. 16, 1872, and Lillie born ___.  Mrs. Roush died July 15, 1878.  Mr. Roush married for a second wife, Caroline Ellison, Oct. 21, 1879.  He is now engaged in the milling business, for which, see history of Ashenhurst, Roush & Co.'s Mills, Manchester.

DR. R. A. STEPHENSON

The subject of this sketch is of Scotch descent, his ancestors emigrating to this country from the North of Ireland, prior to the Revolutionary War, and settled in Sussex county, Delaware.  In the year 1790, his great grandfather, William Stephenson, with his family, moved to Limestone, (Now Maysville) Kentucky, and remained in that State until 1800, when he removed to Brown county, Ohio, near Ripley, where he resided until his death.  His grand-father, Mills Stephenson, married Miss Fitzpatrick, and raised a family of seven children, five sons and two daughters: Robert, Ephraim, John, Charlotte, Elizabeth, Young and Lemuel,  all of whom are now dead, except Robert P. Stephenson, who married Mary Wallace, in September, 1819, and raised a family of ten children: Mills, Ephraim, Jane, Thomas, Lemuel Young, Mary Ann, Robert A., Catharine J., and William R., all of whom survive except Mills, Ephraim and JaneDr. Stephenson was born on the 11th of August, 1838, near Ripley, O., and received his education at the Ripley High School; he commenced the study of medicine with Dr. E. R. Bell of Ripley, O., on the third day of October, 1859, and attended his first course of lectures at the Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, Pa., in the fall and winter of 1800 and '61.  In the month of August, 1851, he applied to the regular army board of medical examiners for permission to be examined for the position of Medical Cadet U. S. Army; passed the required examination, and was assigned to duty at Union Hospital, Georgetown, D. C., in the latter part of August, 1851; remained there until 1st of May, 1862, when he was ordered to Indiana Hospital - then in the west wing of patent office building - remained there until July 4th, when he was ordered to Point Lookout, Maryland, where a hospital was established under the supervision of Dr. Clinton Wagner.  He remained on duty at this point until mustered out, 1st of October, 1862.  Attended second course of lectures at Jefferson Medic College, and graduated with the class in March, 1863.  Son after graduating, made application to the state board of medic__ examiners, passed the required examination for the position; Assistant Surgeon, and was assigned to duty with the 69th Regt. O. V. I., where he remained as Assistant Surgeon until Jan. 1854, at Savannah, Ga.; was then promoted Surgeon until January 1865, at Savannah, Ga.; was then promoted Surgeon, and was finally mustered out at Camp Dennison, July 25th, 1865.  Lacat__ and commenced practice at Bentonville, Adams county, O., in October, 1865, and was married to Miss Kate Hopkins, on the 27th of November, 1867, and has a family of three children, two sons and one daughter; Wm. P., Mary and Robert, all of whom are now living.  He removed to Manchester, his present location, June 1st, 1873.

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NEGRO HUNG

     On Saturday morning Nov. 22, 1856, a Negro, named Terry, committed an outrage on Mrs. Morrison, whose husband, at the time was absent.  Terry was promptly arrested and lodged in jail.  When Mr. Morrison returned and the circumstances became fully known, the indignation of the citizens knew no bounds.  They adopted measures to inflict summary punishment on the offender.
     Accordingly, about 10 o'clock, A. M. Tuesday, Nov. 25, they assembled to the number of two or three hundred, and in wagons and on horseback, proceeded to West Union, where court was in session, and there in the presence of the numbers usually gathered during court, they deliberately went to the jail, broke it open, took out the prisoner, placed him in a wagon and returned To Manchester, where they arrived about 3 o'clock, P. M.  Here a little time was given the prisoner to arrange his worldly affairs and bid his wife a last farewell.  These ceremonies over, they

[Page 36] -
took him over to the Island, which is Kentucky territory, and there suspended him from the branch of a tree, till he was dead.  He was then buried on the Island near the waters edge, about dark, when the assembled crowd returned to their homes.

DEATH OF MORRIS EDMONTON.

     In the forenoon of August 30, 1873, an affray occurred in Manchester, that resulted in the death of Morris Edgington.  Mr. Edgington owned the pottery establishment on Front street, now the property of Thomas McCann.  While engaged in the ware room in which the pottery is dried preparatory to burning and where the burnt ware is also deposited for sale, two men, named John Warden and James Daugherty, with whom Mr. Edgington  had had some misunderstanding, came in.  they were apparently intoxicated and becoming troublesome, Mr. Edgington undertook to put them out by force, when Daughterty drew a knife which he had somewhere about, with which he stabbed him.  Edgington died within twenty-four hours.
     The parties implicated in this affair were arrested, indicted at the January term of court.  John Warden was tried, found guilty of murder in the second degree, and on the 27th of January, 1874?, was sentenced to the penitentiary for life.
     Daugherty was kept in jail until July 27, 1874, on the night of which day he made his escape and was heard of no more until the 17th or 18th of November following, when he was found in Louisiana, brought back and again lodged in jail.  He was tried on the 25th of January, found guilty of murder in the second degree and on the 26th sentenced to the Penitentiary for life.
     After serving in that institution until November, 1879, Warden was pardoned by the Governor, but Daugherty still remains.

DEATH OF WILLIAM MONROE

     WILLIAM MONROE, a farmer, living near the junction of Beasley's Fork and Moore's Run, was a stout muscular man, noted for his ruffianly, quarrelsome disposition when drinking, frequently getting in rows and fights, though in his sober hours,  he was a hardworking and rather thrifty business man and owned a good farm or two.  Some years before, he had had a difficulty on a boat with some of the Greenlee family who lived near Bradyville.  On Saturday Sept. 2, 1876, Samuel Greenlee, William Greenlee, Thompson Frame and Monroe were all in Manchester and as usual had indulged too freely.  Sometime in the afternoon they met at the McDaid House, the old quarrel was easily renewed and Monroe and Samuel Greenlee soon engaged in combat in front of the hotel.  In the struggle, Monroe was stabbed and immediately expired.
     Samuel Greenlee and William Greenlee, were at once arrested, while Thompson Frame who was implicated in the affair made his escape.
     The case against William Greenlee was nollied for want of sufficient evidence, but Samuel Greenlee, was tried, found guilty and sentenced to three years imprisonment in the Ohio penitentiary, which he served out, except a few months commuted for good behavior.

EARLY RECOLLECTIONS OF CAPTAIN JAMES LITTLE.

     James Little was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, Dec. 4, 1793, came with his parents to Maysville where they landed May 19, 1803, and soon after settled in Aberdeen, Brown county, Ohio.
     His father, Thomas Little, was born in county Tyrone, Ireland, and when a young man came to America.  He came to this country just at the commencement of the Revolution, landed at Philadelphia and the next day enlisted in the Continental army and served throughout the war.  He was at the battle of Monmouth and Cowpens, as well as many other places.  Capt. Little's mother, whose maiden name was Mary Nieper, came with her mother from Ireland to this country, in a ship Prosperity, and landed at New Castle, Del.  This was the last vessel that arrived before the commencement of hostilities in the Revolutionary war.
     After the close of the war, Thomas Little came to Ohio, first to Aberdeen, then to Adams county.  He also served in the war of 1812.
     A son named James, now everywhere known as "Capt. Little
 seems to have been a "natural born" boatman.  He, from his earliest years, took to the water as naturally as a duck does.  He commenced his career as a boatman as soon as he was large enough to "paddle" a canoe.  From the canoe he went to the flatboat, then the keep boat and to the Steamboat, starting as a common hand and working his way up to Captain, in which capacity he has spent a good part of his life.   
     He remembers all the early steamboats that ran on the Ohio.  The first one that ever came down the river, was the "New Orleans," built at Pittsburgh in 1811.  It passed Manchester in December of that year.  A crowd of people lined the banks of the river to see it pass.  This was the year in which so many earthquakes occurred in the southwest and which were visibly felt even in this region.  Capt. Little was on a keel boat on the river about three miles above Maysville when one occurred.  It was on Monday morning a little before day, and was so severe felt chimneys of homes about Manchester were toppled down and fences shattered.  These shocks continued at irregular periods for many months.
     The next boat was the Etna, also built at Pittsburgh, in 1812; then the Vesuvlus?, the next year.  These boats all piled on the western rivers and never came back again.
     The Dispatch, built on the Monongahala, near Bridgeport, was the next.  This was the first boat that ever returned up the Ohio.  It was built by James Tumbleston and his son-in-law, and commanded by Elderry Perry.  On an upward trip from New Orleans, it sank at the falls at Louisville, and was lost.
     The Buffalo on an up trip from New Orleans lost all its passengers by yellow fever.
     The first steamboat built at Manchester was the Tuckkaho in 18_5.  It was built by John McNary for Hance? Ireland.
     The next was the "Casket" also built by the same person, in 1836, for John Moore, of Ripley.
     Capt. Little was in the war of 1812, walked over the ground of Dudley's defeat the next day after the battle; was at the siege of Fort Meigs in 1813 and was at the battle of the Thames which resulted in the utter defeat of the British and Indians, by the forces under
Gen. Harrison.

THE ELLISON FAMILY

     This family is of “Irish origin.  As early as 1791, John Ellison and four sons, Andrew, John, James and Robert Ellison and a daughter, Margaret Ellison came from Ireland and settled at Manchester.  It is believed the mother never came to this country, but died in Ireland, before the family left there. John Ellison, the father of this family, died in 1806 and is buried in the Nixon graveyard, two miles south of West Union.  The four brothers soon became prominent business men in the county and performed a conspicuous part in developing its resources.  They all married and have left a numerous race of descendants, that still constitute a considerable element in the population of the county.  They arc noted for their business enterprise and influence in public affairs. These descendants arc also found scattered over different sections of the country and in many of the States of the Union. Andrew Ellison, the oldest brother was married in Ireland and came over with his wire and infant son, named John, before the others did.  He finally settled on Lick Fork and built the stone house now owned by Simon Fields, where lie lived and died.  He was captured by Indians in 1793, while living at Manchester and was detained among them some six or eight months. He was twice married and raised a family of five children, named John, Isabella, Margaret, Jane and Andrew.  He and his second wife both died on the Lick Fork farm and are buried on the bottom over the creek, not far from the old stone house. Mr. Ellison died June 5, 1833, aged seventy-five years.  Mrs. Ellison died July 2, 1824, aged sixty- eight years.  John, the oldest of these children became a prominent citizen of Adams county. He served as Sheriff two terms and officiated at the hanging of David Beckett.  He was several times elected a member of the Legislature where lie served with distinction, he died April 10, 1829.  He married Anna Barr daughter of Samuel Barr. They were the parents of eleven children, named Andrew B., Sarah, Mary, John, Esther, Jane, Margaret A., Ann, William, and two sons that died young.  Of these children, Andrew B. Ellison, became a prominent business man of Adams county.  He was actively engaged in the mercantile business in Manchester for forty years, retiring only at the age of seventy. He was married to Rachel A. H. Enness, of Cincinnati, October 22, 1833, by the Rev. Dr. J. L. Wilson of the Presbyterian church. Mrs. A. B. Ellison died of typhoid pneumonia, at her residence in Manchester in the sixty-second year of her age and was buried in the old cemetery there.  She was esteemed and beloved by nil who knew her for her amiability and goodness of heart.  She had long been a member of the Presbyterian church and died in the hope of a blessed immortality. Mr. A. R. Ellison is now living in Manchester with his second daughter, Mrs. Susan B. E. Dream, now in the evening of life, calmly awaiting the summons to call him hence.  A. B. Ellison and Rachel Ellison had born unto them four children, Anna Eliza, Susan B, John and Rachel MeansAnna Eliza, the eldest daughter married Rev. R. B. Herron, of Hillsborough, Highland county, O.  She was married in the old Presbyterian church in Manchester, by the Rev. D. M. Moore, died in Manchester, Jan. 23, 1870, while on a visit to her father’s, leaving two children, Andrew G. and Anna E. Herron.  She was buried in the family lot in the old cemetery. She was a devoted Christian and a good woman.  Susan B. Ellison, the second daughter, married Samuel D. Drenan, of Drenan’s Landing, Rev. J. R. Gibson was the officiating clergyman, assisted by Rev. R. B. Herron. Rachel Means Ellison, the youngest daughter, married Peter Shiras of Cincinnati, who was then engaged in the banking business in Manchester.  They now live in Ottowa, Kansas, where Mr. Shirks is engaged in banking.  They have a family of eight children.  John Ellison, the only son, died when young.  Sarah, the second in the family, of John and Anna Ellison, married T. W. Means.  She is dead.  There arc by this marriage six living children.  Mary K., the third child, married William Ellison. They reared a family of four children. Robert H., Sarah J., Mary A. and Julia.   Of these children, Robert H. Ellison, the first in the family, is a leading business man of the county, and now county Auditor.   He married Isabella Harris, of Xenia, Ohio.  They are the parents of two children, May Margaret and Francis Harris EllisonSarah J. Ellison, the second child, married Archibald Means.  They have four children, William E., Archibald L., Robert and Sadie.   Mary A. Ellison, the third child, married D. M. Moore.  They have three children, Emily, William and Edwin M. EllisonJulia Ellison married John A. Murry, of Manchester—no children living.  John Ellison, fourth child, was twice married, first to Mary Baldwin, next to Caroline.  There were born unto him by these marriages three children, J. P. Ellison, Esther M. and Louisa B.   Esther Ellison was the fifth of those children.  She married Hugh Means.  They were the parents of two children, John and Anna.  They both died of consumption aged about 18 years.  Jane Ellison, the sixth child, married D. S__ton.  They raised a daughter, Anna, who married Taft, son of Judge Taft, of Cincinnati.  Margaret Ellison, the seventh, married R. B.  Lampton.  They reside in Kentucky; have a family of children.  William Ellison, the youngest, never married. John Ellison, the second brother, in 1786, with his wife, emigrated to the United States, settled in Philadelphia, where they remained until about 1794, when they came to Manchester. To them were born, James Ellison, married to Miss Williamson; William Ellison, married to Miss Mary K. Ellison; Robert Ellison, never married, died in Manchester; Elizabeth Ellison, married to James Kirker; Margaret Ellison, never married, died in Manchester; David Ellison, married Miss Lucinda Livingston; Mary Ellison, married James ClarkRobert Ellison commonly called Robin Ellison married Rebecca Lockhart.  They had born unto them ten children.  John Ellison never married, died in Ironton; Margaret Ellison, never married, lives in Ironton; Cyrus Ellison, married Elizabeth Stevenson.  He is still living in Ironton, in his second marriage, to Mrs. Tomlinson, of Portsmouth, O.; Moses Ellison, married Miss Loughridge; Thomas Ellison, married Miss Wilson; Robert Ellison, married a lady from Pennsylvania; Elizabeth Ellison, married
Thomas Huston; Catherine Ellison, married Mr. Newell, of Maysville, Ky.; Mary Ellison, married James Hood, she died.  Isabella
Ellison, married James Hood, a second wife; she is also dead.  James Ellison, the fourth brother, married _____  ____  ____.  They reared a family of three children ; Johnson Ellison ; Margaret Ellison, married to Baldridge; James Ellison, not
married, still living in Coles county, Illinois, with his sister, Mrs. Baldridge. Margaret Ellison, the sister, married John Clark.   They were the parents of thirteen children: Isabel, Nancy, Robert, Mary, John, James, Andrew, Jane, Sarah, Margaret, Susan, William who died when a young man, and one that died in infancy.

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NOTES:

* Most likely Thomas P. Foster

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