USA > Ohio > Champaign County > The history of Champaign county, Ohio, containing a history of the county; its cities, towns, etc.; general and local statistics; portraits of early settlers and prominent men; history of the Northwest territory etc > Part 54
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EARLIEST SETTLEMENTS.
In or about the year 1803, a solitary young man, accompanied only (we believe by the faithful horse he was riding, left the State of Virginia, purely through a spirit of adventure, and, crossing the waters of the Ohio, entered the Buckeye State. His saddle-bags were filled with white seed corn, which was dropped on the (blazed) wayside as he rode along. To him is attributed the introduc- tion of white seed corn into the Western soil, and the name of Fuson corn has become a household word in every Western State of the Union.
Fuson came to Champaign County in 1804, and entered a part of Section 24 in this township in 1808. History records him as the first white man who settled in Harrison Township. He was elected Trustee at the first Township election, and was continued in that office for a number of years. He was a zealous worker, an enterprising citizen and a kind neighbor. Of the children (we could not learn the date of marriage or maiden name of wife), the follow- ing are living :
Lucinda married John Terrel, and resides in Missouri ; William resides in California ; James resides in Iowa; John is a resident of Indiana ; Jeremiah has taken up his abode in Missouri. Hannah married Alexander Pitman ; after his death she married Ebenezer Pitman, whom she survives also ; she is living in this township. Artie married Burke, living in the West; Celia (now Mrs. - Speece) resides in the West.
Fuson's wife died while he was yet in the vigor of manhood. He was united in marriage, some time after the death of his wife, to Jane Johnson. Of this. marriage, the following children, yet living, were born :
Philander, in the Far West ; Millien resides in Concord Township ; Minerva (now Mrs. Morris) lives in Logan County ; Milton lives in his native township ; Delia married John Kiser ; both are residents of this township ; Dora (wife of David S. Kene) lives in Bellefontaine.
Ralph Robinson, the second settler, was a Virginian. He entered a part of Section 25 in 1809, and immediately commenced the difficult task of clearing For some time he enjoyed a life of single blessedness, but finally took unto him- self a wife in the person of Miss Hannah Conklin. It is probable that this was the first marriage solemnized in the township. The birthplace of the bride, and
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HISTORY OF CHAMPAIGN COUNTY.
the day and date of the marriage, remain in total obscurity. The union proved to be a happy one, and assisted in populating the country. Of the children yet remaining, Sallie, widow of George Pine, resides in Adams Township. Will- iam is a prominent and wealthy citizen of the State of Iowa; Ellen married William Calland, and resides on the " home farm ; " Eliza is a resident of Iowa ; Isaac lives in Iowa. Mr. Robinson lived a life of usefulness and was gathered to the home of his fathers in 1854.
William Wilson was born in the County Tyrone, Parish Cappia, Ireland, in 1780. At the age of thirteen, he emigrated to this country with his father, James, and uncle Charles. While on the briny deep, the Captain of the vessel became a victim of that dread disease, the measles, and was unable to take charge of the ship's affairs. During his sickness, a mutinous plot was arranged by the seamen, which bade fair to end in bloodshed. The passengers were in a continual state of apprehension, hourly expecting a general uprising of the sailors. The timely recovery of the Captain subdued his men, and no further attempts were made. July, 1794, they landed at Philadelphia, and, fearful of becoming victims of the yellow fever prevailing in that city, they removed to the In the following spring they removed to Virginia. William
country at once. was married to Rebecca Humphreys, in 1805 or 1806. In the year 1807, the party again made preparations for a journey, Ohio being their objective point. They squatted in Clark County, near Springfield, where they resided four years. In 1811, they once more bid adieu to the surroundings and removed to Section 12 of this township, now the property of William Speece. No reason is given for the many unsuccessful attempts to become permanent settlers, but they were undoubtedly dissatisfied with the general surroundings. Removing to Clark County, they remained there until 1616, when they returned to this township and settled on Section 13, near the present homestead ; here they ended their days. Mr. Wilson and his posterity have taken an active interest in the general affairs of public interest. Mr. W., during the war of 1812, was detailed to guard the block-house on the lands of Ralph Robinson, of which mention will be made hereafter, and otherwise assisted in defending his fellow- settlers. His father died in 1824, he in 1832, his wife in 1848. Of his descend- ants, Mary, born March 13, 1807, in Virginia, is unmarried and lives on the old homestead ; James, born June 5, 1811, lives on the section, just north of the homestead ; Andrew, born December 3, 1813, lives on the northeast quarter of Section 19 ; William, born February 1, 1818, now resides in Ada, Hardin County, Ohio; Margaret, born June 3, 1820, is unmarried, and resides on the home farm ; John H., born February 28, 1825, died a few years ago. He was a prom- inent politician, and held the office of Township Treasurer a number of years. Was somewhat eccentric in his habits, but withal an honest and upright citizen. He never married.
This sketch was obtained through an interview with the Misses Mary and Margaret Wilson. These ladies, though they have long passed the meridian of life, are still blessed with excellent memories. To their courteous answers to our many inquiries, we are indebted for most of the pioneer history of this township.
Jeptha Terrell was born in Virginia in the year 1776. He married Miss Sarah Barnes, of that State, in 18 -. They came to this county in 1811, and settled on Buck Creek. On March 2, 1812, they removed to Section 32 in this township, now owned by Timothy Terrell. Of the twelve children born to this couple, but one remains on the homestead. Timothy was born June 23,
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HISTORY OF CHAMPAIGN COUNTY.
1797, and came to this township with his parents. He held the office of Jus- tice of the Peace for a number of years, and performed the arduous duties of that office to the satisfaction of all. He is now in his eighty-fourth year, has long since retired from public life, and is now enjoying a life of peace and comfort. He has resided here longer than any other living person in the township.
Joseph Wilson was born in Washington, Penn., on February 24, 1792. In 1817, he emigrated to this county, settling on Section 27 in this township. The farm on which he settled is at present occupied by Miles Wilson. He was married to Eleanor Fullerton in 1816, who was his faithful companion until they were separated by that grim monster, death. Mrs. Wilson died on July 30, 1832. In the month of March in the following year, Wilson took unto himself another companion-Amanda Spencer, with whom he lived happily for more than a quarter of a century. His wife died in 1862, he in 1866. He and his wives were consistent members of the Presbyterian Church, earnest and devout Christians, and have gone to a better land, where pain and sorrow are unknown. Mr. Wilson was the father of sixteen children ; twelve are yet liv- ing, viz .: Miles and Joseph, residing on the home farm; Henry, residing in Adams Township ; Ebenezer, residing in Concord Township ; Dr. J. F. lives at Spring Hills ; Sallie married Jacob Mellhorn ; David is a resident of Spring- field ; Clark, Thomas and H. P. are citizens of Missouri ; Nancy married David Stryer, now living in Iowa ; Ella married J. B. Armstrong, residing at Santa Rose, Cal .; Ella, now Mrs. Cory, living at Muncie, Ind.
As another old settler of prominence, we present the name of John Taylor, who located here at about the same time with Wilson. He married Miss Jane Vance, a sister of Gov. Vance. Of his children, Samuel is President of the Na- tional Bank at West Liberty ; Oliver is President of the First National Bank at Urbana.
Elijah T. Davis, a Kentuckian, came from Kentucky in 1815. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Vance, of Kentucky. They had but three children -Benjamin, Sallie and Rachel, all dead. Davis died in 1840. Benjamin Davis was born in Kentucky in 1804, and came to this township with his parents. With Peggy Wilson, he entered the state of matrimony in 1827. Their marriage bliss was of short duration, Mrs. Davis dying in 1831. In 1833, he was united to Sarah Risor, who died in 1864. Davis was Justice of the Peace for a period of thirty-eight years, excepting one term, in which he was elected County Commissioner. It is said that he never paid fees to wit- nesses from his private funds, but kept the private and public funds separate from each other. This course he pursued as long as in office. His legal decis- ions were rendered with a degree of fairness, and never failed to give satisfac- tion. He was universally esteemed as a citizen and neighbor. By his death, which occurred in 1873, Harrison Township was deprived of one of her most prominent inhabitants, whose memory is as a shining light to future genera- tions.
John McIntire settled here in 1813. He was a native of Virginia.
Thomas Daniels was a very early settler. He entered a part of Section 19 in 1810. This farm is still occupied by his son Perry, an enterprising farmer. Jacob Sarver was born in Virginia in 1779. In 1802, he married Miss Nancy Robinson, a native of the State of Pennsylvania. They were married at what is now known as Buck Creek, in this county. The time of his arrival in this township cannot be definitely ascertained; perhaps he came as early
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HISTORY OF CHAMPAIGN COUNTY.
as 1808. Unquestionably, he was one of the first settlers. He died in 1844. His wife departed from this life in 1872 at the advanced age of ninety-six years. His son Jacob still resides on the old homestead, southeast quarter of Section 25. He has added many improvements to the farm. At present he is dealing largely in imported cattle. Through his personal efforts, many of the surrounding farmers have introduced a superior quality of stock on their lands.
Adam Hanger came here in 1840. He owns 170 acres of land on Sections 8 and 9.
Peter Speece came from Virginia in 1814, and settled on Section 25, where William Calland now resides. Jacob Sarver drove to Virginia with horses and wagon to remove Speece and his family with their household goods to this place. For his services he received as compensation a neighbor and friend. Of his children, William, who resides on Section 30, is the only one living in the township. William was married in 1825. He related to us that on his wedding day his sole assets amounted to 50 cents. He is now one of the wealthiest men in the county.
William Jones came to Ohio from Virginia, in 1816, and settled in Clark County. In 1827, he and family removed to Harrison Township, settling on that part of Section 24 now occupied by John Kiser. When they left the South, their outfit consisted of a wagon valued at $8, and a horse which was bought for $10. Mr. Jones was compelled to walk most of the way. Their children, of necessity, went barefooted from one end of the year to the other. By careful and economical living and honest labor, Mr. Jones had accumulated $20,000 at the time of his decease. His children are dispersed in several of the Western States, and live happy and contented.
Ebenezer McDonald, a Virginian, and an old-time Abolitionist, came to this county in 1810. In 1818, he was united with Miss Anna Kelly, at the residence of the bride's father, David Kelly, near Mount Tabor Church, in this county. They located in this township in 1820-25, on that part of Section 9 now occupied by their son John. A portion of the original cabin is still stand- ing. Ten children were born to this couple, most of whom are yet among the living. McDonald has been dead for some time; his wife is living at West Liberty.
William Kinnan, an extensive stock-dealer and producer of fine wool, pur- chased his farm in 1863. He owns an extensive farm, which is well cultivated.
William Kirkwood came here with his wife in 1817, from Kentucky. His father, David, a native of Ireland and a participant in the Revolutionary war, came with them also. They settled on a part of Section 3, and erected the log house yet occupied by his son David, who was born in 1818. William died in 1849; his wife did not follow him until 1870.
George Leonard, a Virginian, came to this county in 1805, and settled in Salem Township. Here he remained until 1839, when he removed to near Spring Hills, this township, locating on the farm now the property of Christ Myers. He was a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, a stanch Chris- tian, and a good man. His son, Dr. Benjamin Leonard, now a resident of West Liberty, owns a large tract of land in the immediate vicinity of Spring Hills, is President of the Ohio Medical Society, and is respected and honored by all who know him.
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HISTORY OF CHAMPAIGN COUNTY.
EARLY INDUSTRIES.
The first settlers of Harrison had to endure the usual hardships for lack of mills, shops and such other enterprises of a public character that are always necessary for the happiness and prosperity of a community. The great distances which it was necessary to traverse, in order to reach even a water-mill, were enough to discourage the most determined; and the lack of milling facilities was felt more keenly than any other one of the many inconveniences. For a number of years, even as late as 1840, the people were compelled to take their grain to a distant town, by wagon. Wheat was worth 60 cents per bushel at Sandusky City, and 37 cents per bushel at Dayton. The only mill of any consequence was erected, in ye early days, on the site of the flouring- mill, a little distance south of Spring Hills, now owned by William H. Bean. The water-course was constructed by the co-operation of the settlers. This mill was operated, in connection with the distillery, by Jeptha Terrell. A saw- mill was erected, in the immediate vicinity of the grist-mill, sometime after. Our most diligent researches have failed to bring to light any particulars con- cerning the establishment of other mills. As the water-power of this township is concentrated in the locality just mentioned, it is very probable that no other manufactories requiring great power were ever in operation. Terrell's flour- ing-mill proved a great boon to the pioneers, and to this day it has enjoyed the " local trade" of the community.
The first blacksmith-shop was operated, at an early day, by Charles Fielder, on the present site of Spring Hills. He continued this industry for a number of years, to the complete satisfaction of his many customers.
INDIANS.
When the first white settlers made their way into this locality, they found a number of Indian families in assumed possession of some of the lands, though, in reality, this scope of country was owned by our Government. They were, however, permitted to occupy such lands until they were wanted by the actual white settlers. These representatives of the red race belonged to a tribe called Miamis. They were scattered, mainly, on those sections of the township which had been blessed with natural springs. Joseph Fuson remembers of three or four families who were camped on his father's land, on Glady Creek, now owned by Robert Polk. The Indians exhibited no signs of hostility, but, on the con- trary, were inclined to be peaceful. They were much given to begging, and their veracity was questionable, yet they never were know to steal and plunder. They were very fond of the fireside, in the cold days of winter, frequently crowding up to the fire and ejecting the white children therefrom, to the utter dismay of the latter.
FORT ROBINSON.
A matter of distinct recollection to the old settlers yet on earth, is the old " fort," which was located on the land of Ralph Robinson. This frontier work was constructed in 1812, and arranged to admit all the families of the neighbor- hood, should the little colony be invaded by the enemy. Logs were cut about the length of a rail-cut and split. A trench was dug, about three feet deep, and these split logs were firmly set in the ground, perpendicularly, thus form- ing a perfect protection against the depredations of the Indians. William Wil- son was one of those detailed to guard the fort. When the news of Hull's sur- render was received by the settlers, a general stampede, in the direction of the
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HISTORY OF CHAMPAIGN COUNTY.
fort, ensued. It was feared that the soldiery placed on the frontier had been taken captive, or was unable to prevent an attack on the settlers. Jacob Sarver, to obtain, if possible, the true state of affairs, proposed to visit Fort Piqua. His return was anxiously awaited by the inmates of the fort. Finally, their hearts were gladdened by his presence and the joyful news that all danger of an invasion was over.
At another time, a party of rangers stopped at the house of Jeptha Terrell. In the evening, they fired off their guns, simultaneously. The neighbors feared that Indians had made an attack on the Terrells, and were much alarmed. Fortunately, their worst fears were not realized, and the mystery was ex- plained on the succeeding day.
No actual encounters took place in this settlement, and the continual settle- tlements made by the whites caused the Indians to seek new quarters in the West. In 1830, every vestige of Indian habitation had disappeared.
INCIDENTS, ETC.
Hunting was the great sport in those early days. The forests were inhab- ited by panthers, bears, wolves and turkeys. Expeditions for their extirpa- tion were frequently formed, and were generally attended by a majority of the entire neighborhood. At times, panther-hunting was attended with danger and serious results to the participants in the hunt. On one occasion, a pack of hounds succeeded in treeing a panther. A party of pioneers congregated around the tree, and one of their number, James Cavenough, was selected to shoot the beast. The shot was fired, but did not produce instant death. Upon falling to the ground, and in the dying agonies, the panther attacked one of the dogs, crushing his skull.
The first-apple tree was planted on the farm now owned by Timothy Terrell.
That honesty is the best policy, was fully realized by the old settlers. There is no record of any robberies, or of any of the many swindling operations of the present day. In those days of natural simplicity and hard work, it never occurred to the pioneer to attempt to gain possession of any property owned by his neighbor. Thomas McIntire and family left $800 in silver lying idly in the house while they themselves were away visiting. On their return they found the money untouched.
The Terrells, because of their large number, figure conspicuously in the his- tory of the township. They predominated at all the public gatherings. Of twelve men who were harvesting one season, Perry Daniels remembers seven of them as being Terrells. But time has wrought its changes. Two or three fam- ilies alone remain, while the others are scattered over the entire West.
The first graveyard was located on the lands in the possession of Ralph. Robinson. A child (name unknown), who was burned to death, is remembered as the first inhabitant of this "city of the dead." Two children of Samuel Robinson, who died of whooping-cough, were next laid to rest.
On the Fourth of July, 1846, the Declaration of Independence was com- memorated in this vicinity. A lad named Jacob Franklin, a pauper bound to. Nathan Cretcher, asked permission to attend the celebration. This was refused him. After the family had taken their departure for the scene of the day's excitement, Jacob deliberately committed suicide by shooting himself. The affair caused great excitement in the community.
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HISTORY OF CHAMPAIGN COUNTY.
CHURCHES.
Of the people of Harrison Township, we can say, with perfect equanimity, that they represent a religious, church-going community. They boast of & number of churches, which, though they are small, are sufficient for the accom- modation of all who may wish to attend. The precedents established nearly four-score years ago have been rewarded with corresponding results. Let us peep into the mirror of tradition and discover, if possible, some authentic infor- mation as to the introduction of the Gospel into this township.
Prior to the year 1826, no religious society had been formed ; although traveling missionaries visited this country and brought the glad tidings of peace and good will to the inhabitants. Of these early missionaries little is remem- bered. Had we the means, how gladly should we place their names on record; but this pleasant duty is denied us. Joseph Fuson, who settled here in about 1815, devoted much time and labor to the cause of Christianity, and was instru- mental in organizing the Christian (Newlight) Church, of which more will be said hereafter.
The Presbyterian Church of Spring Hills was organized at Newall's mill, in 1826. Twelve persons constituted the charter members. Joseph Stephenson was the first minister ; Joseph Wilson, John Travers and John Taylor the first Ellers. This organization might be called the "mother church" of the churches at Bellefontaine, West Liberty and De Graff, embracing an area of 300 square miles. The society erected a log building in about 1831, which was known as the Stony Creek Church. In 1841, the membership had in- creased to forty-one, and, with the co-operation of their minister, Rev. James Gill, the society concluded to erect a new edifice, which resulted in the build- ing of the present structure, a neat frame, the dimensions of which are 35x60. Meetings are now held on the afternoon of each Sabbath. Rev. L. I. Drake is the present minister. A Sunday school was organized in 1836, and meet- ings continued regularly since that time. At present, it consists of fifty mem- bers. Dr. J. F. Wilson, Superintendent ; D. D. Wilson, Secretary.
Wesleyan Chapel, Methodist Episcopal, was organized in 1845. Revs. Couchman, Sullivan, Gibson and Beatty had been in the habit of preaching at houses, prior to the organization, and through their persevering labors it was effected. The present house of worship was erected in 1848. Rev. Garbison was the minister of the congregation, which constituted at that time about twenty members ; the society at present is in a fair condition ; Rev. Omerod, minister. A Sabbath school was organized in 1865. Mr. Couchman was, perhaps, the first minister. Present membership of Sunday school about thirty- five.
The Salem Church, United Brethren .- This society was originally organ- ized by Rev Antrim, but no active steps toward the erection of a building were taken, and for a number of years the life or death of the church could scarcely be noticed. In 1854, Jacob Sarver, Joseph Hoffman, and Roster Robinson effected a re-organization. But six members figured as the charter members. These at once proceeded to erect a building, which was dedicated by Rev. Henry Comer.
The Christian (Newlight) Church was organized in 1842, at the house of James Fuson, by Rev. John B. Robertson, and consisted of about thirty mem- bers. A building was erected in 1844, and called Glady Creek Church. This structure was destroyed by fire in 1860. Immediately after, the present frame,
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HISTORY OF CHAMPAIGN CNUNTY.
36x55, was built. This church is the finest in the township, presenting a fine appearance within and without. James Fuson and John B. Robertson were ministers of this church while it was yet in its infancy. It is now in a flourish- ing condition. Present membership about seventy-five. Rev. Lawrence pres- ent minister. When the first church building was completed, a Sunday school was organized by James Fuson, who was also the first Superintendent. A " singing school " was also conducted in connection with the Sabbath school, and was very well attended. At one time, there were over one hundred mem- bers. The school is now, as heretofore, in a good, prosperous condition. John Williams, Superintendent.
SCHOOLS.
The log cabin, with its huge fire-place, so well remembered by our older citizens, is also remembered as the " college of learning " in Harrison Town - ship. The first schoolhouse was built on the farm now owned by Joseph Bren- cher, in 1815. Another early schoolhouse was located on the farm of - Taylor, Section 19. The scholars were taught by one Piper. A number of log buildings were located in various portions of the township. In about 1850, the frame buildings were erected. Harrison is divided into seven sub and one special (Spring Hills) district. Each school is controlled by a competent Board of Directors. The buildings are all in an excellent condition, and well supplied with the latest styles of furniture, globes, charts, and all the modern necessities of the schoolroom. The special (Spring Hills) district is provided with a graded schoolhouse, containing two rooms, which are in charge of intelligent teachers.
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