USA > Indiana > Grant County > Biographical memoirs of Grant County, Indiana : to which is appended a comprehensive compendium of national biography with portraits of many national characters and well-known residents of Grant County, Indiana. > Part 41
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In politics Mr. Hulley is an ardent and active Republican and is very popular with his party. He was a school director for fif- teen years. Fraternally, he is a member of Lodge No. 96, I. O. O. F., of Marion. Mr. and Mrs. Hulley and two sons are members c" the Methodist Episcopal church, in which Mr. Hulley has served as steavard and trus- tee and has been superintendent of the Sun- day-school for the past three years. Mrs. Hulley is a most amiable lady, and a teacher in the Sunday-school. Their home is the seat of domestic felicity.
ELIAS W. MCKINNEY.
Elias W. Mckinney was born near Piqua, in Miami county, Ohio, February 8, 1825, and is a son of William Mckinney, M. D., a native of Pennsylvania, who became one of the pioneers of Miami county, where he was married to Miss Sarah Scott. To them were born nine children, of whom three died in infancy, and of the remainder but two, Elias and Fielding survive. The latter re- sides in south Marion, being one of the well- known retired mechanics of the city and of whom further mention is found on another page of this volume.
In 1836, Dr. William McKinney and family removed to Grant county, purchasing a fine tract of two hundred and forty acres of land, part in Center and part in Monroe townships. The country was then in a new and wild condition, indeed, and the new home presented but a sorry welcome to the little family. A one-room, round log house, with puncheon floor and clap-board roof, was their first residence, the contrast to their old Ohio home being such that many days and months of homesickness were experienced by the mother and children. The father, being of that rugged and indomitable char- acter, needed in every new country, worked with the will that soon showed effects in a better condition, and in the course of a few months, they all became satisfied with their new surroundings.
Doctor Mckinney, being well skilled in' the practice of medicine, soon had all that he could do to attend the many calls, riding often many miles to visit patients, thus be- coming the most widely known man in that entire section of the country. The practice of medicine in that early day involved trials
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and hardships not dreamed of by the modern practitioner ; swollen streams had to be crossed by swimming, the wilderness, with its dense forests, dismal swamps and long miles of muddy trails, must be traversed, with no company but the animal he rode, or the stealthy wolf or other savage animal of the woods.
Dauntless in all matters, when the relief of the sick was involved, the Doctor never hesitated, no matter what the condition of the roads or weather; and, even, when he knew that he would never receive a cent for the service, he went forth feeling that a duty he was there to do would thus be ac- complished.
Beside his pofession, Doctor Mckinney was identified with all that made for a bet- ter civilization of the community in which he lived. He was the founder of what has ever since been known as Mckinney Chris- tian church in Center township; and, during the years of a busy life, remained in a re- sponsible relation thereto. Besides being iden- tified with every movement, he was quite successful in the conduct of his private bus- iness affairs, accumulating a substantial property, that gave him a special prominence, in all the affairs of the county. While never a public man, in the modern sense of an office 1:older, he never failed to cast his vote and in- fluence with that party, which, in his esti- mation, most clearly stood for the general advancement of the country. His person- ality was of a most pleasing nature, bringing hope and sunshine into the sick room as much by the mere strength of a noble char- acter as by the medicines he gave.
Not too much credit can be given by the historian to those grand men of a former generation, who, by devotion to a noble pro-
fession, did so much to alleviate and miti- gate the terrible sufferings incident to all rew countries. Diseases, not known to the physician of to-day, were then common; and the responsibility resting upon those who attempted their treatment was of a serious nature. The general practice was crude in comparison to that followed by the modern practitioner ; but, with a skill made more perfect by constant application of the rem- edies learned from the Indians, as well as those found in the standard medical works, those noble men accomplished wonderful re- sults, doing much to make the situation and condition of life more bearable. The rela- tions between Doctor Mckinney and the other reputable physicians were of the most cordial nature, bing often found in consul- tation with such men as Doctors Lomax, Ayres and Meek, all but one of whom have long since gone to their reward.
The Mckinney family have been one of the most prominent in the state of Ohio as well as in Indiana, one of the most brilliant men on the old Ohio home, and one whose future was of the brightest, but whose bril- liance became clouded by the influence of lat- ter circumstances, was one of the name, who, if intellect were valued for itself, would to- day stand high in the nation's councils. Elias W. Mckinney's boyhood and youth were passed on the farm, becoming inured to the labor incident to the making of a new home in the wilderness, and receiving only such schooling as the log house, with its most primitive arrangements of slab benches, greased paper windows and other similar surroundings afforded. The teachers of those times were none of the best, yet with an earnestness, born of enthu- siasm, managed to instill into the minds
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of those who cared to learn the fundamen- tal principles of those few subjects that were then thought necessary. At the age of twenty-one, Elias assumed the control of the old home which he operated with success for several years, until 1865, when he re- moved to a one-hundred-and-eighty-acre farm in Pleasant township, which he had pur- chased, and where he remained for five years. Making a satisfactory progress while there, he sold and bought a tract of two hundred acres in Washington township, which be- came his home until he decide dto retire from the active cares of business. His home was on that farm for upward of a quarter of a century, becoming in that time, identified with all that tended to improve the commu- nity. In the making of his own farm, he ex- pended more than two thousand dollars in the one feature of tiling alone.
Much of the tract was originally in a low, wet condition, that required the exercise of the greatest ingenuity and skill, coupled with heavy expense to place it in a suitable shape for satisfactory tillage. But, after the con- tinued efforts of an energetic and indomit- able owner, it became one of the most fer- tile and highly improved farms in the en- tire neighborhood. What were once but ponds and seeming worthless expanses were transformed into fertile fields that yielded most bountifully of the golden grains to rec- ompense the proprietor for the labor and ex- pense bestowed upon them.
After making this farm and adding his share to the growth and prosperity of the county, having laid by the necessities of fu- ture comfort and ease, he decided to retire to the city to pass the remainder of what has been a useful life in the greater social com-
panionship and society of those for whom a warm feeling has ever been present.
When starting out for himself at the age of twenty-three Mr. Mckinney became asso- ciated for life with Miss Otilia R. Barley, who, however, lived but a few years, leaving at her demise four children, one of whom survives, he being the well-known real-es- tate man, William McKinney. Those de- ceased were Maria, Edith and Sarah.
In 1856, he was united to Miss Abigail J. Chidester, whose early death followed but a few years later. She became the mother of five children, of whom three only sur- vived to maturity, viz .: Mary, Belle and Alice. Later in life, feeling the natural need of the influence of woman's presence and con- solation, he was united to Miss Martha Fra- zee, a lady possessing many admirable traits of character, and whose personality is of that tender and companionable nature as to spe- cially fit her for the duties of a model home. Reared under the training that led him to the abhorrence of that stigma upon the na- tion, slavery, he early became thoroughly im- bued with the spirit of personal freedom and responsibility, identifying himself with that political organization that stood for higher and broader citizenship.
At the birth of the Republican party, in 1856, he was one of those who took the first steps toward local organization; and from that day to this there have been no more consistent or stanch supporters of that party's principles. While never specially identified with the public life of the county, he has invariably stood for the advancement of the general civilization, no attempt at public im- provement but has had his heartiest approval and support.
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The Christian church, founded upon the great truths of the Master, and giving the greatest liberty to the variations of the hu- man mind, with its encouragement of the reason, early drew him to its folds, being but sixteen years of age when he united there- with. He has endeavored to so live that. bearing the good will of his friends and all who have known him, he may, when the final summons comes, lay down the cares of this life and put on that immortality of the Great Hereafter.
CASSIUS C. BRADFORD.
Cassius C. Bradford, the present Sheriff of Grant county, was born in Marion July 30, 1857, and is a son of Moses and Mary Ellen (Van Horn) Bradford. The Brad- ford family have filled an important niche in the history of Grant county, a more com- plete reference to the earlier members of the family being found on other pages of this work. Moses Bradford was, in many re- spects, one of the most interesting charac- ters who have ever lived within the borders of the county. He was born in Hardy county, Virginia, and was married near Xenia, Ohio, coming to Indiana in 1841, and settled on the bank of the river in North Marion. There he secured 160 acres of fine land, which is now all embraced in the city, and devoted himself to' farming and butcher- ing. being the second to engage in that busi- ness in the town. But two houses stood on the north side of the river at that time, those of Aaron Swayzee and that of Mr. Reed. For thirty-five years Moses Bradford was the principal stock buyer of the county, his connection with the stock business making
him widely known in all this part of the state. There were no markets then, as now, but the meat was peddled from house to house over the town. His old home, which is still in use as a residence, was erected by Riley Marshall in 1839, and the Swayzee house, now the home of Congressman Steele, are the landmarks of that part of the town. To no other man is so much credit due for the promotion and construction of the railroads through Grant county. Wa- bash, twenty miles to the north, on the canal, was the only outlet, and there, through all kinds of weather and over all kinds of roads, the goods for Marion and the produce from here had to be hauled. He, with a keen foresight, realized that Marion could never amount to much until it had suitable com- munication with the markets of the country, and early began the sounding of the people on the feasibility of securing a railroad. His enthusiasm aroused others, and steps were taken to secure the Pan-Handle rail- road, he being the principal local promoter. The right of way was largely obtained through his personal efforts. He saw clear- ly the needs of a second railroad, keenly feeling the lack of proper competition, and thus became the president of the narrow- gauge, now the "Clover Leaf," and, in fact, was the owner of about forty-four miles of it from Kokomo to Warren. Litigation grew out of the relations of the officials, and finally the Supreme Court decided ad- versely to his interests, taking the ground that it was against public policy for one man to own a full control in any such publio utility. He stood tenaciously for his rights, making a strong fight for his property, only in the end to lose all. After years of effort in advancing the interests of the community
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and struggling to retain the fortune he had amassed by the strictest legitimate methods, he died a poor man, others reaping the har- vest, where he had cleared, broken and planted. He conducted a general store for many years, and was constantly doing some- thing in the way of building, that tended to improve the town, believing that it was des- tined to make an important city. He is re- membered by all as a justice of the peace, many of his decisions bearing the stamp of originality and even genius. He was one of the original abolitionists of the William Lloyd Garrison type, and ever held slavery in the greatest abhorrence. The movement of assisting the escaping slaves was already begun when he came to Marion; but he at once became associated with the local men, soon becoming the most radical and pro- nounced of any of them. His home was a station on the famous underground railway, and the night was never too dark or the danger too great for him to go forth on what he deemed a mission of mercy. Fear- less to a degree, he stopped not for man or Devil, when he felt the cause of humanity needed his presence. He was threatened, , eight reached maturity, and of these, six and violence was even offered him; but he daughters and a son survive him.
was made of that stuff that never hesitated when once his mind was bent on the accom- plishment of a definite object. Threats had no effect, except to make his determination that more dogged and unyielding. He was outspoken in his opinions, and harsh in his criticisms of others, having no sympathy with those of trembling nature, whose hearts might be right, but whose fears kept them from action when action was most needed. He was for motion. He lacked smoothness and politic suaveness ; but what he lacked in these he made up for in strength and vigor. 20
While en route from the east he came near. being mobbed in the vicinity of Cincinnati. He had been so pronounced that word of his coming had preceded him, and a reward was offered; but, by the assistance of Qua- ker friends, he eluded the parties. He was warned by the Knights of the Golden Cir- cle, whose training grounds were in Van Buren, that he would be mobbed; but he kept on the even tenor of his way, though his house was fired into and other insults offered. Weighing 245 pounds, he had physical strength in proportion, and very few men were able to handle him. While. never an aspirant to public position, he was. well qualified to fill any post of trust that might have been offered. He assisted in the building and maintenance of the old Wes- leyan church, besides which he erected a church building on a tract of his own, do- nating its use to the congregation. He plat- ted two additions to the city, embracing about fifty acres, and which is now largely covered with desirable residences. He died. January 10, 1898, full of years of honors. He: was the father of twelve children, of whom.
Cassius C. Bradford was reared on the farm, entering, however, the store at an early age. He was married February 22, 1881, to Miss Victoria Cochrane, of Marion. He was elected Sheriff of the county in 1898, and again in 1900, after receiving: 900 more votes at the primary election, in February, than the combined vote of his. four opponents. He is said to have made a model officer, at least his services have been recognized by those who have given the matter considerable attention, the ladies of the W. C. T. U. presenting him with a
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handsome souvenir for his activity in the enforcement of the law. Three deputies are retained, by whose aid, and that of his faithful wife, who is the matron at the jail, the most careful attention is given to all that properly pertains to the office. For fif- teen years he has taken a keen interest in politics, being generally found in the con- ventions and serving on the various com- mittees. Hle has ever been a good "mixer," no more popular man being found within the party ranks.
Still owning considerable of the estate of his father, Mr. Bradford has extended his operations by the laying out of two new ad- ditions-that of "Bradford's Home" and that of "Bradford's Third Addition," and is active in making improvements thereon. His family, besides himself and wife, are two children-Burr, a bright boy of eight- een, who is serving as turnkey at the jail. and Mary, aged ten.
While Mr. Bradford is absorbed in the duties that constantly press for attention, he has found time to identify himself with some of the social fraternities, being a member of the Knights of Pythias, of the Junior Or- der of American Mechanics and of the Mod- ern Woodmen.
ARTHUR NORTON.
Arthur Norton, one of the most highly respected and successful agriculturists in Mill township, Grant county, Indiana, was born in Essex, England, in 1843. a son of Elijah Norton. He remained at home with his parents, assisting in whatever his hands found to do, until he attained the age of fif-
teen years, when his father became interested in "the new world" and, bidding farewell to home and friends, started with his family for the western continent, and a long and tedious trip it was, as they spent five weeks and two days at sea, but without accident. Upon their arrival in this country the father had a desire to explore the interior of the continent and came as far west as Wabash, Indiana, where he established a home.
Arthus Norton remained under the pa- rental roof until twenty-one years of age, when he rented land and began life for him- self. During his years at home he was a valuable assistant to his parents and devoted his time to work, thereby neglecting his early education. While his education is limited, he is well read and is ever ready to converse on the topics of the days.
In 1858 he removed from Wabash to Grant county, locating in Monroe township. and soon after purchased an eighty-acre farm in Mill township, where he still resides. though it would not be recognized as the same place, as, when Mr. Norton came here, it was a woodland, with a log house and out- building to correspond ; they, however, were soon replaced by more modern ones and he now has as well improved and well culti- vated a farm as there is in Mill township. ali the result of his personal work.
In 1871 Mr. Norton was united in mar- riage with Miss Elema Luger, the lovable and genial daughter of John Luger. To this ti.ion there has been born one child. Eras- tus, who is still residing with his parents on the old homestead.
Mr. Norton does not devote his time alone to general farming, but is also engaged in: stock-raising, in both of which he has been successful. To his original farm he has
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added from time to time, until now he owns three hundred and sixty acres, all well im- proved.
In politics Mr. Norton is a stanch Repub- lican and an able worker in the party to which he has belonged many years. Mr. and Mrs. Norton are members of the Christian church to which thev liberally contribute.
It may be well said that Mr. Norton is a self-made man, having but few opportunities offered him, but making the best of those that were.
JACOB STREIB.
Among those of the substantial citizens of Grant county, Indiana, who, after taking an important part in developing and improv- ing its lands, have retired to the ease of the leisure to which their efforts have en- titled them, is Jacob Streib, whose career is here briefly reviewed.
He was born in Rockingham county, Virginia, June 17, 1831, being the son of Jacob and Susannah (Klingenpiel) Streib, who were married in that county, though John was born in France but reared in Ger- many. He was one of Napoleon's soldiers upon the expedition to Russia and came near losing his own life during that disastrous retreat. He was taken pisoner, but, manag- ing to escape, came to America, not caring to again undergo the suffering incident to such a campaign. He was a miller by trade, and during the infancy of Jacob removed to Preble county, Ohio, where he operated a mill with which Jacob's first recollections are connected. When Jacob was still young. they settled on the Elkhorn in Wayne county,
Indiana, and in 1839 came to the Mississin- ewa country. The trip was made with two- horse wagons and it was the order of the day to stall three or four times. The family of Daniel Shaffer accompanied them, and the many interesting events of that moving were impressed with a vividness upon the mind of the boy that time cannot eradicate. Sev- enteen houses comprised the village of Ma- rion, and they stood in the midst of a vast forest. Their own destination was some two and a half miles northeast of Conner's mill, from which place there was no road; so they cut their way through, the children driving the teams.
Bringing ten sheep, they were warned that the sheep would be eaten the first night. but by building a pen and enclosing them they were saved, though a dozen or more wolves came, and were frightened away only by the almost constant firing of shot-guns. It was necessary to pen them up for years. John Hendricks was the first and nearest neighbor, but others came the same fall, Ben- jamin Marks being of the number. Jacob Lyons lived two miles distant, but being one of the nearest, assisted in the building of the round-log, one-room house that was their home for many years. James Thompson had recently lost his wife, and for two years boarded with the Streib family. Jimmie and Bennie Price came the following year and settled three miles further north. David Con- ne: had a trading post at Conner's mill, which was run by Jacob Sprecher. The mill had but an old corn cracker, but even this was of great help to the settlers. About a year later he put in a flour burr, while the bolting was ali done by hand, Jacob having a distinct recollection of the dislike of going to mill on account of having to turn the bolts, often be-
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ing scolded for feeding the bolts too fast. He l.c.d to keep a close watch that the limbs ot the forest trees didn't pull him from his horse and recalls that once the sack slipped off be- hind in going up a steep hill opposite the mill, and despite all he could do was not able to re- mount it, having to wait for some time be- fore help came.
Jacob Streib, the father, improved a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, and after liv- ing upon it for nearly thirty years removed to Marion, where he kept a little grocery for some years, till toward the close of life. He passed to the "other shore" when in his ninety-seventh year, having retained his mental powers remarkably well to the last. His family were two sons and four daugh- ters: Sarah, became the wife of Christian Buhl, a wealthy brewer of Richmond. While there in company with her father, she firsi met Buhl, to whom she was married two months later. Catherine married Thomas O'Hara, also of Richmond, and who was a foundryman. Sophia married Edward Guen- ning, a musician, who was the leader of the first band known in Marion. He went into the Mexican war as a musician, in company with George Streib. The daughter of this couple-talitha Guenning-has for many years been the housekeeper of Jacob Streib, her uncle. George Streib as has been said, was a soklier in the Mexican war, and served all through those campaigns, which ended with the capture of the city of the Montezu- mas. He later owned the old homestead, but now resides with a nephew who is its owner. Susan wedded William Ross and removed to Colorado Springs.
ress, bunching cattle and selling to the west- ern feeders. He erected the first stock scales in the county and during the war accumu- lated a handsome competence. During one season he bought over three thousand head oi hogs to be slaughtered at Marion. His reputation as a stockman was far reaching, everybody over a wide area knowing that if they had stock to sell he was ready to pay the highest market price. He soon began to buy land, adding to the purchases till he was the owner of six hundred and ten acres, cut into several farms, one of these containing five hundred and fifteen acres, making one of the largest and best stock farms in the county. He made extensive improvements in the way of buildings, fences, drains, etc., every piece of land that fell under his cultivation being enhanced in value by his operation of it. Re- taining his activity until his family were grown, he decided to render them some assis- tance, at a time it would be of benefit, and accordingly made a division of his lands, and ing each of his five sons a valuable farm, re- taining only two hundred and fifty acres for his own diversion. Since 1890 he has re- sided in Marion, though his attention is still largely given to the conduct of his farm.
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