ÿþ<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 TRANSITIONAL//EN"> <HTML> <HEAD> <TITLE>Jennings County History Selected Events from Newspapers, 1859-1901</TITLE> </HEAD> <BODY BACKGROUND LINK="blue" VLINK="#B552AD"> <A NAME="top"> <FONT FACE="Verdana" SIZE="+2">Jennings County History Selected Events from Newspapers, 1859-1901</FONT><BR> <P> <CENTER> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLSPACING="5"><TR> <TD><B>Events</B></TD> <TD><A HREF="#1860">1860-1864</A></TD> <TD><A HREF="#1865">1865-1869</A></TD> <TD><A HREF="#1870">1870-1874</A></TD> <TD><A HREF="#1875">1875-1879</A></TD> <TD><A HREF="#1880">1880-1884</A></TD> <TD><A HREF="#1885">1885-1889</A></TD> <TD><A HREF="#1890">1890-1894</A></TD> <TD><A HREF="#1895">1895-1901</A></TD></TABLE></CENTER> <CENTER><TABLE BORDER="0" CELLSPACING="10"><TR><TD><A HREF="#bottom">To bottom</A></TD> <TD><A HREF="jcplgene.html">To genealogy page</A></TD> </TABLE></CENTER> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1859</B></FONT><BR> We called in at the new steam flouring mill of our friend E. P. HICKS, Esq. at Tripton a few days ago, and gave it a general looking through. He has both the buildings and fixtures in the most improved order. The inside arrangement is undoubtedly the best we have ever seen  there is to be three run of stone, if we recollect right. The mill will about compare in size and general fixtures with any in the State. The engine has just been received, and was being adjusted.<BR> <P> One excellent feature in the building is the wheat room, though built closely adjoining is entirely separate from the mill itself, so that the great weight of wheat usually stored in mills will not effect the mill operations. The mill will be in operation within two weeks. <B>July 28 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1859</B></FONT><BR> An advertisement for J. B. CONNER a Real Estate Agent:<BR> One of the properties listed was 120 acres of land, good farm 75 acres cleared and under fine state of cultivation, the balance well timbered. Lasting water, good orchard; good dwelling, barn and out houses; situated on the Brownstown Road, four miles west of Vernon, Spencer Township, Jennings Co., Ind. Terms reasonable. <B>Vernon Banner of August 4</B><BR> <P> <A NAME="1860"> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1860</B></FONT><BR> We took a walk through the different departments of the new courthouse a few days since and are pleased to say that the work is rapidly approaching completion. The court room is now ready for the stands and seats. The county offices will soon be completed, when the officers will take their respective stations in their new quarters and the county saved the expense of paying rent for rooms. Mr. REED intends finishing the tower soon. <B>June 28 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1860</B></FONT><BR> The building known as the Washington Hotel (in Vernon), which has been allowed to remain comparatively idle for a number of years, is destined to become one of the finest and most convenient buildings in the place. Mr. P. Branham is having it thoroughly rearranged and made new, and will soon be ready to extend to the public all the accommodations of a first class hotel. <B>August 9 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1860</B></FONT><BR> Probable Infanticide  An infant was found dead one morning last week, in the bed of one ANN D. KIDLE, in Geneva Township in this county, under very singular circumstances. We give below the verdict of Coroner s jury. As the matter undoubtedly will be thoroughly investigated, we shall not give any further particulars at present.<BR> <P> The following is the jury s verdict:  We the undersigned Jurors empanelled and sworn on the 25th day of September A. D. 1860, in the township of Geneva, in the County of Jennings and State of Indiana, by ANDERSON MCGANNON, Coroner of said county, to inquire and a true presentment make, in what manner, and by whom an infant, boy child, (whose body was found at the house of ANDREW KIDLE, between the beds, on the 24th day of September 1860) came to his death. After having heard the evidence and examined the body, we do find that the deceased came to his death by violence, and that said body has upon it the following marks and wounds inflicted by ANN D. KIDLE to wit the right arm was dislocated at the shoulder and torn from the body the under jaw was separated in the center of the chin, the breast was much bruised, the skin was broken on the arms, legs, and body; the bones of the head were separated, the right side of the neck was skinned, the navel string was cut or broken six or seven inches from the body, and had not been tied. The nails on the fingers and toes were perfect. The child was 19 ½ inches long and would weigh seven or eight pounds. The head was covered with hair. We find that ANN D. KIDLE is guilty of murder in the first degree.<BR> <P> Given under our hands and seals this 25th day of September, 1860.<BR> JOSEPH F. DRAPER; A. D. W. NEWKIRK; JAMES WAUGHTEL; C. K. LEAVITT; F. F. AMICK; JAMES CAMPBELL;<BR> MOSES E. ARNOLD; OBED AMICK; E. M. THOMPSON; IRA GLEASON; J. B. KEEFER; J. H. C. RODGERS<BR> <B>October 4 Vernon Banner</B> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1861</B></FONT><BR> Two men were arrested at Tripton on last Monday evening, in whose possession was found about sixty dollars in counterfeit bank notes and coin. They were apprehended after they had passed several pieces of the coin and on preliminary examination before Justice PIETZUCH, was recognized to the circuit court and committed. They gave their names as WILLIAM WOODS and EDWARD HOLT. From the <B>January 10 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1861</B></FONT><BR> HENRY WARD BEECHER spoke in the court room on Saturday to a large audience. He, with all the other patriots, is ready to die in defense of the stars and stripes. <B>April 25 Vernon Banner</B><BR> Note : Henry was the brother of Harriett Beecher Stowe, the writer. He was a minister and opposed slavery; he traveled and lectured in many of the states.<BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1861</B></FONT><BR> The newspaper carried these articles pertaining to the Civil War effort here at home in Jennings County - Vernon Grays  The following is a list of the officers elected by the Vernon Grays, last week: Capt. JAS. H. VAWTER: 1st Lieut. J. B. CONNER: 2d Lieut. Dr. N. J. BEACHLY: 3rd Lieut. S. B. COWELL: Ensign J. H. WILSON: Orderly Sergeant T. J. REILEY, 2d Sergeant P. L. BASNETT. The names of the other officers we do not remember. <B>Vernon Banner of May 2</B><BR> <P> Capt. TRIPP S Company of Jennings Volunteers has been assigned a place in the 6th regiment. Capt. DRAPER S company did not get into the first requisition, and is a part of the state reserves. Capt. H. PRATHER, we learn has been promoted Lieut. Colonel in the 6th Regiment. The boys in both companies are in good health and spirits.<BR> <P> Within the past few days about nine hundred yards flannel have been purchased and manufactured into shirts for the two companies of soldiers from this county, now quartered at Camp Morton. The ladies deserve much credit for the perseverance manifested in their manufacture. Other Counties are moving in the same way for their soldiers.<BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1861</B></FONT><BR> Calvary Drill  The Jennings Calvary Company, Capt. J. B. NEWCOMB, have a drill at this place on Friday the 10th inst., at 2 o clock p. m. An experienced drill officer will be present to assist in the exercises. Let all be present<BR> <B>From same paper</B>  We learn that a citizen of Montgomery Township has been recently selling fat hogs to a firm in Louisville which were contracted for some time ago. The citizens demand  contract or no contract no more shall be shipped. That is right. Stop the traffic forthwith. Our brothers and sons have gone to defend the flag of our Country and we must not feed the traitors who are to meet them in battle array. <B>Vernon Banner May 9</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1862</B></FONT><BR> Jennings County has 575 home guards at Indianapolis. KENNEDY BROWN, Colonel, CALVIN DIXON, Lieutenant Colonel, and LEVIN W. HUDSON, Major. The home guards can congratulate themselves that they have these men to lead them. This is the only Regiment of home guards in that state that are regularly organized. Bully for Old Jennings. This is from the Local Items column of the <B>August 14 Vernon Banner</B>. <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1862</B></FONT><BR> Military List for Jennings County (by townships)<BR> Bigger had 39 individuals exempted, Campbell 32, Columbia 21, Geneva 42, Marion 30, Montgomery 32, Sand Creek 30, Spencer 30 and Vernon 75. Bigger had 90 individuals in service of the U. S., Campbell 141, Columbia 95, Geneva 227, Marion 168, Montgomery 157, Sand Creek 75, Spencer 181 and Vernon 471.<BR> Bigger had 100 liable to draft, Campbell 150, Columbia 109, Geneva 241, Marion 205, Montgomery 168, Sand Creek 84, Spencer 211 and Vernon 397. <BR> <P> The total including those in the service and liable for draft were as follows: Bigger 190, Campbell 291, Columbia 204, Geneva 468, Marion 373, Montgomery 325, Sand Creek 159, Spencer 392 and Vernon 868.<BR> <P> The total in all of the townships were as follows: volunteered 1611, liable to draft 1663. The excess of those who were liable to draft and those in service was 54.<BR> The above shows up well for Jennings County and if we had 27 more in the field, we could have one half of the able bodied men in the County, in the United States service, but since the above list was made out, quite a number have gone into service, so that the actual number in the service are more than liable to draft. <B>September 18 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1863</B></FONT><BR> Notice  Whereas, my son, ORLANDO ROSE, a minor, being insubordinate, ungrateful and disobedient-leaving me without permission, I therefore warn all persons against trusting or employing him, as I will not pay any debts of his, and will promptly proceed to collect his earnings from those who employ him. Vernon, Oct 27, 1863  3w ERA ROSE <B>October 29 Vernon Banner</B> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1863</B></FONT><BR> The supper given at the Court House on Christmas Eve by the Soldiers Aid Society was a complete success and reflects great credit upon the managers thereof. There was a large crowd in attendance. <B>Vernon Banner of December 31</B> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1864</B></FONT><BR> A Draft Ordered  The President has ordered a draft for five hundred thousand men, to be made on the 10th of March, 1864. All recruits mustered in up to that dates, not heretofore credited, are to be deducted from the quota under this call. In other words, the pending order for three hundred thousand men is canceled, and a new order for five hundred thousand is substituted; the object evidently is to get three hundred thousand new men to be added to the army. <B>February 4 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1864</B></FONT><BR> Our readers must not forget the Agricultural meeting that comes off at the Court House on Saturday next. There will be important business before the meeting, and a general attendance of those interested is desired. Found in the <B>March 17 Vernon Banner</B> <P> <A NAME="1865"> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1865</B></FONT><BR> Our Military Debt  The military debt of Jennings County since the breaking out of the rebellion is as follows:<BR> Paid to soldiers families : $11,339.37<BR> Bounty to Volunteers : 90,030.00 <BR> Total : $101,369.37 <B>January 5 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1865</B></FONT><BR> Sad Tragedy -- It becomes our duty, as a public journalist, to record one of the most horrible tragedies, that has ever taken place in this county. The duty is, by no means a pleasant one, yet we can not pass over it without notice.<BR> <P> On Thursday evening, last the town of Tripton was thrown into high excitement, by the announcement, rapidly spreading, that HEZAKIAH ROUNDS, a citizen of that place, had deliberately blown his brains out with a navy revolver. The ball took effect in the top of his head, and entirely perforated the brain, lodging in the cheek bone. After the fatal shot, Mr. ROUNDS lived but a few hours, and did not utter a word.<BR> <P> So far as we have been able to learn the cause of this bloody scene is about this: Mr. ROUNDS, about three years ago, enlisted in the service, leaving his wife and two bright interesting children at home, in care of the patriotic citizens of our county  who have well provided for the wants of the helpless. But while the good and honest citizens of that locality watched that his wife and babies should not want for comforts, they could not ward off the worst of all evils the wiles and arts of a seducer.<BR> <P> While in the service Mr. ROUNDS was informed that his companion was faithless, that she was the victim of the vile art of the seducer, who was alleged to be a dentist of that town. <BR> <P> Mr. ROUNDS returned home a few weeks since, on a short furlough, not having yet been discharged, he accused the Dr. of alienating his wife s affection, and polluting her virtue. This was so stoutly denied by the Dr. and other that he thought the parties innocent, although Mr. ROUNDS returned to his regiment, to receive his pay and discharge.<BR> <P> While he was gone his wife disappeared and in a few days the Dr. was not to be seen; when ROUNDS returned and searched in vain for his wife and darling children. The agony was more than he could live under and thus the untimely death of one of our returning heroes that all good people love so well. Does not the author of this heartrending scene deserve to be spurned from human society? <B>August 10 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1866</B></FONT><BR> Burglars Again  On Friday night last, the mill of Mr. E. P. HICK S at North Vernon, was entered and his safe broken upon and relieved of its contents, which consisted of fifteen dollars of counterfeit money. No traces of the burglars have been discovered. It seems to us that this safe gets into trouble very often. <B>Vernon Banner February 8</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1866</B></FONT><BR> New Depot  The I. & M. R. R. Co. are erecting a new Depot for passengers at this place (Vernon), nearly in front of Col. Vawter s residence. This speaks well for energy and good taste of the Company, and will be appreciated by the citizens in this locality. <B>April 12 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1866</B></FONT><BR> Fresh Milch Cows  Persons wishing to purchase fresh milch cows can find five by applying immediately to the undersigned at Oakdale, Jennings County, Ind. J. R. MCILROY <B>Vernon Banner May 3</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1866</B></FONT><BR> Very Foolish - (Mr. GEORGE WASHINTON SAGE was hung for murdering the children of a Mr. TODD in Montgomery Township. This is the only hanging that is known in Jennings County.)  We constantly hear reports that SAGE who was hung here on Friday, the 25th of May revived at Seymour, and is now the body. Some of these reports say that SAGE was hung only a few minutes. Others say that SAGE was a Mason and for that reason was not hung much. We have only this say, that these are simply electioneering stories, manufactured by very silly brains, and designed only to prejudice the electio n of Mr. DIXON. However we imagine that these, or any similar reports will not disturb the Sheriff. It is enough for the public to understand that SAM M. DIXON is the nominee for Sheriff of this county.<BR> <B>Vernon Banner of June 7</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1866</B></FONT><BR> The little girl LILLIE DAVIDSON who was abducted from her father s residence in this city in April last, was yesterday found in Chicago, and started last night on her return home. <B>Vernon Banner of September 5</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1867</B></FONT><BR> New Township  The Commissioners have made a new township composed of the territory adjacent to Queensville. Most of the territory composing the new township is taken from Geneva with three sections taken equally from Spencer and Center Townships. We also learn that JOSEPH B. SMITH is appointed Trustee for the township. All right. From same paper - A Bargain  THOMAS J. STOREY offers for sale the splendid Hotel stand now occupied by him. This an excellent site for a tavern, it is situated in the center portion of town; contains 15 rooms, and the only house in Veron suitable for a good hotel. Nice dining room; commodious and large cellar; two cisterns and the necessary out houses. The yard is well ornamented with shrubbery and flowers. Also a large stable  used now as a livery stable. Terms one third cash and the residue in payments. Call and examine the property. <B>Vernon Banner of March 14</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1867</B></FONT><BR> In a letter to the Editor of the Vernon Banner a charming description of the businesses of Vernon was found: NEW ALBANY, INDIANA APRIL 18, 1867 - Having some business to transact in the county seat and having heretofore stopped at the BRANHAM House (the Old Mill Antique Shop in 2004), I concluded to make that my stopping place, but what was my surprise to find the house gutted of furniture, petitions, etc., and stowed full of machinery. On inquiring for a hotel I was referred to the American House kept by Mr. STOREY, who I found to be an agreeable and gentlemanly landlord, but much in need of a good house keeper (his wife died two years ago) which he told me he intended having. After finished my business I was so taken with the lovely appearance of your town, I concluded to spend a day or so looking around. I was much pleased with the Court House, and especially the square with the nice grove and green grass (leaving out the ash piles which dotted the ground in several different places giving it a smutty appearance.)<BR> <P> I visited the BRANHAM House and ascertained that it was fitting up for a Woolen Manufactory. On going thro the establishment, I found the machinery they were putting in of the finest make, unequaled by few and I think surpassed by none; also fine steam power. Messrs. DOWD, WALKER & BRANHAM I found to be energetic and good business men.<BR> <P> I next visited the Woolen Factory of DAVIS & RICHARDS  found them in full blast trying to work up the old stock before the new clip comes in. They are men that understand such business, - have introduced new machines and intend keeping up with the times.<BR> <P> From there I wound my way to LEAVITT S hub, spoke and felloe shop. I found the establishment entirely new from cellar to garret. Mr. ROWAN the foreman and by the way a gentleman and a man capable and qualified to manage such business told me that the factory was entirely consumed by fire on the 10th day of January last and by the 20th of March had their new machinery, building up and whistle blowing already for work. At this establishment they work twenty or thirty hands turning spokes, felloes, hubs and stuff for wheat fans. Mr. LEAVITT is a man of untiring energy, and since he was burned out, has associated with him in the business JAMES A. MCCLELLAND, a man energetic and practicable. This establishment is the best in your town.<BR> <P> From LEAVITTS S, I strolled round to the Foundry and Plow Factory of Messrs. WAGNERS S, for the manufacture of plows, wagons, engines and machinery of almost every kind. In the Foundry they cast their own plow points, or any article of casting people may want. This is the place to get a good plow made of the best material and warranted to stand the roughs of old Jennings, and wagons put up to order and of the best material. The WAGNER S are an energetic and go-a-headative firm; working some fifteen and twenty hands.<BR> <P> From there I dropped down to the Rake Establishment belonging to Mr. BUTLER, the inventor of the patent. At this place they turn out about fifty rakes per day, taking the timber from the stump, putting it through all the evolutions to where it comes out a perfect rake, and from my limited knowledge of such things, think it a good rake. Should think it would be a fortune to any man by keeping it moving while hot. In conversation with Mr. BUTLER he told me he had been engaged in almost every thing of an honorable character  was a blacksmith by trade, farmer, shoe maker, manufacturing of plows; was the man that started the plow business in your town; sold out and moved to Minnesota. When the Indian troubles broke out, lost all he had; moved back to Vernon and engaged in the pump business very successfully; made a big thing out of it, and expected to make a bigger thing out of the rake. The pump business will be continued with the rake, as I understood him.<BR> <P> The landlord informed me there was four fine large churches in Vernon; an Academy or High School, a splendid building large enough to accommodate four or five hundred pupils, with a good school the year  round.<BR> <P> He named over the wagon makers, blacksmiths and tins shops with a full share of dry good and grocery stores and saloons.<BR> <P> From the amount of stone and lime I saw passing on the railroad, I was led to inquire where it came from and was informed that there were two or three extensive quarries east of town; also two large flouring mills, and some talk of one being erected in town. With the enterprise and spirit of your town it is bound to be one of the leading manufacturing towns in the west. SCROWL <B>April 25 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1867</B></FONT><BR> Shooting Affray at Scipio  On last Wednesday, July 3rd, a case of shooting occurred at Scipio between JAMES WILKERSON, and one JIM BRADBURN. It seems that Mr. WILKERSON, whose store had been broken open some time last winter, had suspicioned BRADBURN and two of the BANISTER boys as being the guilty parties; and had openly accused them. These parties had been to Columbus, and returning home drunk, got off of the train at Scipio with the expressed intention of  cleaning Old Tom out. <BR> <P> One of the smaller boys was in the store at the time and was very much frightened; and went for his father, but the gents not wishing too see M. W. left in double order. After going to DAY S and taking another drink started for home about three miles from town. On the road they met an old man by the name of GEORGE BARCAS who they pounded unmercifully. Having now, as they thought, got their pluck up to a fighting point, they concluded to back and give WILKERSON a rub. The commenced the fight by stoning the house. When WILKERSON and his son, not liking this kind of treatment fired at them with revolvers which hadn t any effect on the scoundrels. Finally young WILKERSON picked up a shot-gun and let BRADBURN have the contents between the eyes which stopped the contest.<BR> <P> The physicians thought BRADBURN would not live, but we understand he is getting better. <B>July 11 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1867</B></FONT><BR> Ball  The Splendid building of E. S. WHITCOMB (WHITCOMB S Opera House) of North Vernon, being about completed, there will be a grand Dedication Ball given on Friday night September 20th. All are well acquainted with Mr. WHITCOMB, and a splendid time is anticipated. <B>Vernon Banner of September 5</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1867</B></FONT><BR> Morgan s Raid Commission  The Morgan Raid Commission will pass upon the Claims filed with the undersigned at the following times and places in Jennings County: For claimants who reside in Marion and Montgomery Townships, at Paris October 10th, 11th and 12th. Bigger, Campbell, Columbia and Sand Creek Townships at Vernon October 14th. Spencer and Center Townships, at Vernon October 15th. Geneva and Vernon Townships at Vernon October 16th and 17th, and longer if found necessary.<BR> <P> Parties residing in Jefferson, Ripley, Decatur and Jackson Counties having filed their claims in this county will be heard at Paris or Vernon; as may best suit their convenience. J. W. SUMMERFIELD, Clerk Vernon September 9, 1867. <B>September 12 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1867</B></FONT><BR> Grand Dedication Ball - On Friday evening the 20th inst., the dedication ball came off at WHITCOMB S Hall at North Vernon. About nine o clock, P. M., we entered the new spacious and magnificent hall, where we found a large and respectable crowd had already assembled and fairy forms, now here, now there, like children of the air, were gaily  tripping the light fantastic too. <BR> <P> The music for the occasion was furnished by TAYLOR S Quadrille Band from Taylorsville, Ind., and for style and variety cannot be excelled. The prompting was excellent, the figures new and diverse, the calls timely and in such a distinct tone of voice that the most careless and indifferent in the mazy dance seemed to experience no difficulty in hearing, understanding and executing the calls.<BR> <P> The hall is new, large, airy and splendidly fitted up, being just suited to chase the glowing hours with flying feet, and in all respects reflects great credit on Mr. WHITCOMB for its architectural beauty and providing for the flowers of the terpsichorean art a place where the gay dance of bounding beauty s train can make age smile and dream itself to youth again.<BR> <P> About 12 o clock, M., a splendid and bountiful repast was furnished for the occasion by that prince of caterers, Mr. HODSHIRE, proprietor of the NATIONAL HOTEL, and after all present had done ample justice to the inner man they again repaired to the hall, where the dance was resumed and  Of all that did chance, T were a long tale to tell, of the dancers and dresses and who was the bell, but each was so happy and all were so fair, that night stole away, and the dawn caught them there. <B>Vernon Banner September 26</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1868</B></FONT><BR> Legal - The first prosecution in this county under the law making a misdemeanor to attempt to provoke an assault took place on Monday before Esq. Norris.  Mr. Stearns was charge with using eminently unproper language to a Hebrew lady in North Vernon.  "Twelve good and lawful men" said that such words were decidedly improper and certainly calculated to provoke any lady, and consequently the offender paid $7.50 to promote the cause of common schools.  From the <B>June 24 Vernon Banner</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1868</B></FONT><BR> BRADBURN VS WILKERSON  The case of BRADBURN against WILKERSON, in the Circuit Court, was a suit for damages for the shooting out of eyes. The case it will be remembered is founded on a riot that occurred at Scipio, on the 4th of July 1867. The plaintiff BRADBURN together with two confederates JOHN BANISTER and LEVI BANISTER  began the riot by stoning WILKERSON S house. When Mr. WILKERSON S son took down the shot-gun and fired into the crowd, shooting out BRADBURN S eyes. Suit was brought to recover $125,000 damages. The case was a long and closely contested one and the jury remained out all night, when a verdict was rendered for five hundred dollars damages and costs against defendant. We should suppose that if Mr. WILKERSON had been at all guilty, eyes would at least be worth more than $500. And had this jury considered BRADBURN in fault, at verdict to that effect would have been just.  Oh consistency, thou art a jewel. <B>Vernon Banner of September 23</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1868</B></FONT><BR> The building at Nebraska used as a Depot by the O. & M. R. R., together with a small frame house, occupied as a whiskey saloon, were totally destroyed by fire on Saturday night last. The Depot house belonged to Capt. S. ELLIOTT, on which we believe there was no insurance. The fire originated in the saloon. <B>December 31 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1869</B></FONT><BR> NANCY B. ANTHONY (colored) was granted a teaching certificate for the following time 6 months. <B>September 2 issue of the Banner Plain Dealer</B> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1869</B></FONT><BR> Some persons at Vernon are propping up the bridge at which winds across the CAMPBELL Ford, to keep it from falling.<BR> <B>From same paper</B>  The colored citizens of this county will very largely attend the annual celebration of the emancipation proclamation, at Madison on the 22nd. <B>September 9 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <B>From same paper</B> - The congregation of Ebeneezer M. E. Church, on Crooked Creek, near the Bigger Township line, is erecting a new church at an expense of $800. The money is all subscribed and the work well advanced.<BR> <P> <B>From same paper</B> - Work in town on the Louisville Railroad still continues. Track laying will be committed in a few days. The crossing of the J. M. & I. was laid on last Sunday.<BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1869</B></FONT><BR> The circus of HEMMINGS, CURTIS and WHITBY, which was wintered at this place, is now in southern Missouri, and will continue to exhibit through Arkansas and Texas. <B>October 21 Plain Dealer</B> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1869</B></FONT><BR> On last Friday a flue of the steam saw mill of JOHN WAGNER, at Benville, better known as PASSMORE S Mill, collapsed, moving the boiler out of the mill and throwing bricks, stone and timber in every direction. Several persons were near the boiler at the time, but with that rare food fortune which occasionally attends such accidents, all escaped uninjured. <B>Plain Dealer December 9</B><BR> <P> <A NAME="1870"> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1870</B></FONT><BR> A protracted meeting at Hardenburgh closed the first of last week, 62 persons were converted. This is the largest work in the county this year. <B>Plain Dealer of February 22</B> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1870</B></FONT><BR> Boarding is furnished at two dollars a week to those desiring to attend Hopewell Graded School, near Butlerville. <B>Plain Dealer of March 8</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B></B></FONT><BR> The citizens of Paris are building a bridge between that town and the railroad. It will be of wood, covered and ninety feet span. The carpenter work has been let for $2,000, and is estimated by those building it that the abutments, trestling to reach it etc., will cost $2,000 more. These people are possessed of public spirit, and wanting a bridge, proceed to build it, instead of imitating some of their wealthier neighbors who close tight their purses and demand that others furnish the money to promote their private interests. <B>March 15 Plain Dealer</B> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1870</B></FONT><BR> These names of people who were granted liquor licenses were listed by the Commissioners: JOHN GASPER, PHILIP SPECHT and JOHN WENZEL of Vernon; MICHAEL FOLTZENLOGEL of Nebraska; JOSEPH BARNHART of Buena Vista; WM. NIEHAUS, Hardenburgh; HENRY KNOLL, FRANK HOUPERT and JOHN LOFTIS, North Vernon. <B>May 19 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <B>From same paper</B>  The old engine house at this place (North Vernon), belonging to the O. & M. Company was torn down last week to make room for additional switching.<BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1870</B></FONT><BR> Notice  We hereby warn all County Clerks in the State of Indiana, and in the United States, and forbid them issuing a license to HENRY PETTIFORD and EDY LEE for marriage. They are both under age. WM. LEE EDWARD PETTIFORD May 25, 1870  <B>Plain Dealer of May 26</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1870</B></FONT><BR> Upon a petition of all its citizens section 30 of Campbell Township containing Oakdale was made a part of Center Township last week by the board of Commissioners. It is not a matter of importance except to the citizens of the section transferred. <B>September 15 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1871</B></FONT><BR> The Conviction of Mary Adams - The trial of Mary Adams, who had been charged with murder in the first degree, by poisoning her husband with arsenious acid, was concluded on Saturday last, about noon, so far as the evidence was concerned. From the afternoon until 10 o clock p. m. the time was spent in argument by counsel. Judge BERKSHIRE delivered his instructions after the conclusion of the arguments in one half to three quarters of an hour to the jury. The jury was only out for an hour and a half and returned with a guilty of murder in the first degree indictment. Court was adjourned until Monday morning at ten o clock. It was on Monday when the sentence was handed down life in State Prison.<BR> <P> During the trial the stomach and liver of MARY S husband, which had been examined by a chemist in Louisville, KY, and the amount contained therein was enough to kill 10 men, was used as evidence. She was around 50 and her husband around 80. She had three or four children which she left behind. (Her husbands name or where they lived was not given in this article.) <B>June 1 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1871</B></FONT><BR> Announcement - The colored citizens of Jennings County will celebrate the Fourth at SMITH S Grove at North Vernon. <BR>The Plain Dealer of June 15</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1871</B></FONT><BR> The brick work on the Presbyterian Church (in North Vernon) is almost done. When finished it will present quite a nice appearance and be creditable to out town. (Perhaps this was the first brick church built in North Vernon and not the 2nd Methodist as S. J. RICHARDSON stated in his letter of the February 2 1945 Plain Dealer.) <B>Plain Dealer of August 1</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1871</B></FONT><BR> A new township was created by the Commissioners last week, upon the unanimous petition of the citizens of the territory composing it. It embraces the sixteen northern sections of Montgomery and those numbered 27, 28, 29, 32, 33, 34 and half of each 30 and 31 in the south western part of Vernon Township. It is called Lovett, in honor of its central town and place of voting. JOHN S. THOMAS was appointed trustee. <B>September 19 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1871</B></FONT><BR> The Post Office at Sherman in this county has been discontinued by order of the Post Office Department. Hereafter mail matter for that place will be put off at Commiskey, unless otherwise ordered by parties interested. <B>Plain Dealer of October 10</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1872</B></FONT><BR> Mr. FRANK MILHOUS has become a partner to his father in Sycamore Valley Nursery. J. V. MILHOUS is the name of the firm. It is one of the best and reliable nurseries in Indiana. <B>January 23 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1872</B></FONT><BR> Commiskey  We are informed by a friend in the vicinity that this station on the O. & M. Branch Road is rapidly, growing in importance to the surrounding community, and bids fair ere long to prove a thriving town. Already C. W. HUDSON, merchant and Express Agent, is doing a profitable business; Mr. WRIGHT, a blacksmith, said to be one of the best workmen in the country, is kept busy, and by the way is putting up a nice new house; Mr. T. J. WRIGHT, grain and hog merchant, is doing a thriving business. Mr. CONNER, farmer and stock dealer, formerly a resident of this vicinity, is proposing, and others whom we have not time nor space to mention, are successfully contributing to build up the place. <B>Vernon Banner February 28</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1872</B></FONT><BR> Butlerville Reading Rooms have procured their new library. Of all towns in the county Butlerville now stands ahead in literary enterprise. <B>Plain Dealer of July 2</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1872</B></FONT><BR> A threshing machine belonging to Mr. SPENCER was burned by heat produced by friction, while in operation upon the farm of Lewis Laws, near Weston last week. The fire communicated to the straw, which was also burned with about ninety dozen bundles of wheat. <B>August 13 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1872</B></FONT><BR> Newspaper reported that the colored people of Shelbyville to the number of two car loads came on an excursion to this place on last Thursday. Here they were met by colored people of Jennings County, by which the crowd was increased to about five hundred. Excellent speeches were mad by Rev. RICHARD BASSETT of Rising Sun, JOSEPH CURTIS of Michigan City, Hon. J. S. HINTON of Indianapolis, and DANIEL MORGAN of Shelbyville. There was no drunkenness or other disorder during the day. <B>The Plain Dealer of August 20</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1872</B></FONT><BR> The frame work of the new HOWE span of the  WELTON bridge, 109 feet long, was completed, keyed up, and the temporary support knocked from under it, last Saturday. It has the appearance of being a good substantial piece of work and the contractors, PENNINGTON & BENNETT deserve great credit for the energy and workmanship displayed in its erection. Nothing now remains to be done but the flooring, and the grading at each end, to restore this link in one of the most important avenues leading to Vernon. <B>Vernon Banner November 13</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1873</B></FONT><BR> A Farm for Sale  We have a farm of 107 acres, 2 ½ miles East of Vernon, Jennings County, on the new Zenas road, for sale or trade. Has a good hewed log house and a new frame barn on it; good young orchard three years old; fine water; 25 acres cleared, balance good timber: contains good quarry rock; will sell at a bargain, or trade for property in Seymour. Terms easy. Call at the Sun office in North Vernon, or on HOLMES & VOSBRINCK Real Estate Agt s Seymour, Ind. <B>February 2 Sun</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1873</B></FONT><BR> A young couple eloped from Geneva Township on Tuesday of last week for Illinois, to be married, but the  cruel parent of the would be bride  girl of fourteen  followed, and returned with his child on Saturday. <B>Vernon Banner of August 6</B><BR> <P> <B>From same paper</B>  The temporary trestle work for the FINNEY Ford Bridge is being put up by the workman; would have been completed but for the rainy weather of the latter part of last week. Mr. PENNINGTON, the contractor, reports the timbers all framed and ready to put up.<BR> <B>From same paper</B>  Found in Cana Column  The new Baptist Church is very nearly completed, the plasterers being busily engaged at the present writing. Mr. CALEB ROBBINS, Treasurer of the Committee, deserves a great deal of praise and commendation for his energy and perseverance in hurrying forward the work to an early completion.<BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1873</B></FONT><BR> The Corner Stone of the Colored M. E. Church at this place (North Vernon), will be laid on Monday next, the 29th inst., at 3 o clock p.m. Rev. E. L. DOLPH will deliver the address and Rev. JAS. SARGENT and J. B. GREEN will also be present and assist in the ceremonies. <B>August 23 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1873</B></FONT><BR> From Lovett Column  The Hickory Corner Literary Society is in full blast. Will meet next Friday p. m. The officers are as follows: A. HALL, President; J. A. SHEPHERD, Vice-President; J. WISMAN; Secretary. <B>Plain Dealer of November 25</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1874</B></FONT><BR> A Saturday night freight train on the O. & M.  JIM MCGINNIS conductor run over a cow and off the track, a mile or two this side of Hardenburg, about midnight, creating quite a wreck. Seven or eight cars took fire from some kind of combustible in them and burned up, including a large quantity of merchandise in four of them. <B>June 2 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1874</B></FONT><BR> From Queensville Items column :<BR> A party of our young folks went fishing to CLARK S Bend on Thursday last, but it is thought that they also must belong to the  Callathumpians for not a fish was injured, not even so much as scared. The day was passed with all the pleasure that might be wished for. The ladies of our party were just as near perfection in their manner of entertaining and imparting pleasure as any one is susceptible of being, at the present age of the world. We are under many obligations to them for the splendid dinner which was partaken by all and so well enjoyed beneath the spreading branches of the old forest trees which grace that place. CLARK S Bend is a lovely place thickly set as it is on either side with beautiful shade trees of Nature s planting. We hope to have the pleasure of visiting there again under the same or similar circumstances. Success to all fishing parties! We enjoy them hugely. From the <B>June 7 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1874</B></FONT><BR> From the San Jacinto column - This beautiful village is situated near the center of Bigger Township, Jennings County, Ind., at the junction of the two GRAHAM rivers, which after they have united form on powerful stream, not, however navigable for very large steamboats, at all season of the year. The stram has many fishing ponds, well stocked with the finest fish in the proper season, and in winter affords splendid skating grounds for those who enjoy that kind of amusement.<BR> <P> The population of San Jacinto we cannot give as the record of the last census has been mislaid. Our leading merchants are WILDMAN & Bro., and W. H. STANLEY. Both these firms run wagons through the surrounding country, for the benefit of the farmers, the wagons carrying all kinds of goods for sale, the conductors taking in exchange all kinds of farm produce. Freight tariff is exceedingly high by rail or water and these merchants haul their goods and produce from and to the great centers by wagon. We have weekly mail here, with B. F. WILDMAN in charge of the office. T. G. STOUT superintends a merchant flouring mill, our livery and sale stable is carried on by LINDSAY STANLEY; our horses are shod, agricultural implements repaired, and wagons and carriages are manufactured by LAFAYETTE HAND, and the work is well done; JOHN STANLEY manufactures grain cradles; our Professor of Sciences is JOHN A. LAYMAN, and the healer of the sick and wounded is Dr. KENDRICK, who is ever ready to attend a call by day or night. We have also a band of music, conducted by FRANK STANLEY, who is always anxious to supply us with music from any one of his instruments. Pleasant Valley Lodge of Odd Fellows meets here every Thursday evening. Its officers are J.F. HAYDEN, N. G.; LEN. COLE, V. G.; COLL. WILDMAN, R. SEC.; J. H. WAGONER, PER. SEC.; and B. F. WILDMAN, Treasurer. Your Plain Dealer is read by most of our citizens, and is valued very highly. We hope its success may be a perpetual one.<BR> <P> From the above sketch we think your patrons will be able to form a very correct idea of the location of, and also the business and industry practiced in, the town of San Jacinto. <B>July 29 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1874</B></FONT><BR> A disgraceful row took place on our streets (North Vernon) on Saturday afternoon, in which a number of roughs, who have infested the town for some weeks past, and some of our citizens figured prominently, one citizen using a pistol, which would not  go off, however. After resisting the officers for some time, the two MCKEE boys were finally captured, and then committed to jail, at Vernon, to await trial. A woman named CARRIE KELLY; a bad character was arrested and also sent to jail. TOM KYLE, for interfering with the officers in the discharge of their duties, is under bond of $350, to appear for trial on Tuesday, at which time the other parties will be tried. This affair is not the only one in which these person have been engaged, not creditable to them, and after their trial on Tuesday, they will be held to answer other charges which may result seriously for them. Affidavits were filed against others for their part in the disturbance, and if justice is done, the school funds will be increased considerably. Let the law take its course and the officers do their duty. <B>August 4 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1874</B></FONT><BR> Hardenburg column - A game of baseball was played between the Haymakers of Queensville, and our Dewdrops. The Haymakers won by a score of 36 to 22. <BR>September 8 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <A NAME="1875"> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1875</B></FONT><BR> These three articles appeared in the Home News Column of the paper: Mr. JOSEPH WYNN has sold his farm, in the  WYNN Settlement, north of Scipio, and will move to Franklin, this State in a few days. On the 10th, inst, he will sell all his personal property at public sale. The property consisting of horses, cattle, hogs, sheep, corn, hay, wheat, oats, wagon, plows, harrows, cider mill, reaper, corn-planter, and household furniture. A credit will be given until the first of next year on sums over five dollars. Mr. JAS. CHAILLE will sell his Bourgett Jack at the same time and place.<BR> <P> Messr. COOMBS & CLAYPOLE, the latter a miller of sixteen years experience in this country and England, have rented the old KELLAR mills and thoroughly repaired the machinery and buildings. They pay the highest market price in cash for wheat, or will exchange flour for grain. They do custom grinding on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays of each week.<BR> <P> The bridge over the creek at CAMPBELL S Ford, Vernon, was carried away on Monday night February 22. A rise in the creek brought a large quantity of ice against the bridge which was unable to bear the weight, and gave way before it. <B>March 2 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1875</B></FONT><BR> Home News Column - A correspondent at Ice Creek, Columbia Township, says that in the neighborhood where wheat was sowed early it looks well, but the late sowed is badly winter killed. From the <B>June 8 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1875</B></FONT><BR> In the Home News Column was this mention of an elephant in the streets of North Vernon: The large elephant belonging to the Robinson Show got loose from his keepers while they were taking him to his car and for a while convorted around the streets at a terrible rate. He was secured before any damage was done other than frightening some of our citizens. <B>June 15 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1876</B></FONT><BR> On Saturday evening, while the sheriff was carrying a bucket of water into the jail at Vernon, one of the prisoners, Schell, struck him a stunning blow and escaped at the open door. Three others, among who was IKE COLLINS, also escaped. Sheriff WILSON soon recovered and pursued them, at the same time giving the alarm. He soon brought Collins to a halt by the industrious use of his revolver, but the others crossed the creek and were captured a short time afterward by the aid of the citizens who joined in the pursuit. This was undoubtedly a made up plan by the prisoners to secure their liberty. Sheriff WILSON has them now in chains. <B>January 1 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1876</B></FONT><BR> From North Vernon column - There has been much excitement in town, for a few days, over a man found dead upon the railway. On the night of Thursday last, the body of a man, was found upon the track of the Branch Railway, near the crossing of Main and Jackson Street s. It had been run over by the train and horribly mangled. It proved to be the body of THOS. READY, a workman upon railway repairs, lately from Greensburg. An inquest was held, developing the following facts: The deceased, with some of our young roughs, had been drinking during the evening. Later, probably near eleven o clock, Tom Kyle, John McKee and others, took lunch at the Central. A few minutes before that the deceased was knocked down upon the pavement, by Jno. McKee, at Charley Gautier s door. Blood was seen on the door step, the next morning. The man was taken from there, and carried to the railway. A colored boy, McCopin, in passing that way saw the man lying upon the track, thought he heard him groan and removed him from the rail. At this time, he saw three men, but in the darkness, did not know them. They cursed him. He left went to the Depot and tried to get some one to go with him and see the man; did not succeed. In the man time, the train came in and the man was run over.<BR> <P> Of course, the man must have been placed upon the track or got on it himself. The inquest concluded that he was murdered; KYLE and some others have been arrested. Great exertions are being made, for the arrest of JNO. MCKEE. Not successful at this writing. Grave rumors that Judge LYNCH, was about calling court Sunday night, but he will probably difer, to more legal tribunals. There seems however to be a determination rising to put down that band of roughs and rascals, at all hazards. <B>Vernon Banner January issue</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1876</B></FONT><BR> On Saturday the 19th day of August, 1876 there will be a grand social picnic in Renie s Grove, one mile north of Oak Dale. Good music and refreshments will be on the ground. Found in the <B>August 3 Plain Dealer.</B> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1876</B></FONT><BR> Ad - The Colored People will celebrate the anniversary of their emancipation by Lincoln, on Friday the 22nd inst., at this place. Hon. WILL CUMBACK will be the orator of the day. The procession will march through the streets of our city then to the Fair Grounds where the speaking will be. Good music and refreshments will be on the grounds. The Emancipation Proclamation will be read by DANIEL TUCKER, Esqr. All are invited to attend. <B>The Plain Dealer of September 21</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1876</B></FONT><BR> On last Friday night, three young men of North Vernon, SI MCKEE, BEN MAYFIELD and WARREN LONG, were arrested on a charge of disturbing a prayer meeting at the Colored Church. After the arrest, MAYFIELD was allowed to escape. The other two were placed in the County Jail. The next day they were taken before Mayor COPE of North Vernon, and tried, the fine and cost amounting to seventy-five dollars for the former and thirty dollars for the latter, in default of which they were remanded in jail. <B>Vernon Banner October 25</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1876</B></FONT><BR> The ladies of the 2nd M. E. Church (North Vernon) will give a grand festival at Oddfellows Hall December 25 and 26 for the benefit of said church. Admittance only 10 cts. Oysters will be served in every style. And supper 25 cts. Let everybody come. <B>December 14 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1877</B></FONT><BR> GEORGE STATEN, colored, was brought before Squire NORRIS on Thursday morning, on a charge of assault and battery preferred by EMMA PRYOR, also colored. The trouble occurred on Tuesday night at the 2d M. E. Church, but sufficient evidence was not offered to convict the defendant of the offense, and he was discharged from custody. <B>February 6 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <B>From same paper</B>  ARTHUR ALLEY, familiarly termed  DOX, who is now in the employ of SCOTT & GRINSTEAD, cigar manufacturers at Nebraska, this county, was in town several days of last week visiting friends.  DOX is almost large enough to go with the girls.<BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1877</B></FONT><BR> A couple of weeks ago a stranger hired a horse and buggy at DAVIS S livery stable to go to Sandcreek Township. He went and came back the same day, just before dinner, and had his horses fed. This return was simply for effect, for after dinner he started for Four Corners to look after cattle, he said, and was to be back before night. Mr. DAVIS had confidence in him, but the confidence was betrayed for the man never came back, and for a week JOE was out a horse and buggy. A search was then made and the horse was found in a stable at Louisville but the man and buggy turned up missing and remains so. <B>Plain Dealer March 1</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1877</B></FONT><BR> Letter from Nebraska  Since my last itemizing for the Plain Dealer, we have had some disorderly conduct in our usually very quiet neighborhood. It occurred in this wise: Some three or four young men from our neighboring county of Ripley came to pay our place a visit, and as it was near springtime, and the young men being farmers, they seemed to think, after having paid their devoirs very freely to a certain John Barleycorn  who dwells in our midst  that they would treat our people to an exhibition of their skill in sowing  wild oats. So after looking around a little while, they found a field for operation in the sitting-room of the O. & M. railroad depot, where they found a small inoffensive, wayfaring, Dutch shoemaker, upon whom they pounced their slingshots with telling effect; but through the interference of some parties who came to the rescue, they were prevented from murdering the man out right. The man was badly cut on the head and otherwise bruised. They then tried to force their way into the telegraph and ticket office of the depot, and being resisted, demolished the door. They then went off carrying away the shoemaker s kit and hat. Of course a warrant was sworn out and an arrest ordered and undertaken, but so unaccustomed were our officers to such naughtiness, that they scarce knew how to act. Officer TAYLOR assisted by a numerous posse comitatus, started in pursuit, and when he had neared the supposed rendezvous, he said to his posse  you remain here outside the farm till I go to the house and see if they are there. He found them; but when he went back and returned with his posse, the boys were gone. One of Officer TAYLOR S deputies fell into company with a couple of the criminals on their way to church, but he thought two could out count one, so after telling them his mission he went some considerable distance to get a citizen to assist him, but when they repaired to where the deputy left the boys they had not waited for him; the naughty boys! One was finally caught and another surrended, and were fined ten and five dollars respectively. Heavy penalty for such an offense! <B>Plain Dealer March 8</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1877</B></FONT><BR> An alarm of fire on Tuesday afternoon was caused by some children playing with matches and igniting a quilt in the second story of Mr. TENNIS residence. Assistance was quickly at hand and the flames extinguished before damage was done. <B>April 19 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1877</B></FONT><BR> Within the last eighteen months the town of Vernon has been sorely tried by the fire fiend, the first burnt was the LEAVITT (Mr. ROBERT S) Works which consisted of two acres of buildings and a huge amount of finished work and wood stock; which resulted in a large amount of loss for ROBERT. Not soon after the Woolen Mills roof caught fire and the building saved by the promptness of the Vernon citizens. These fires occurred over a year ago, and were accidents unavoidable perhaps. Then within the last two months three more fires have called the people from their beds to fight the fiend, all of this was the work of arson. Eight stables were burnt without very much damage, but the fact that they were deliberately set has outraged and frightened the citizens of Vernon. It is predicted that if this arsonist were to be caught he would never see a trial but a rope around his neck instead. All of the citizens of Vernon were active in the fighting of these fires. <B>Plain Dealer of June 14</B> <BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1878</B></FONT><BR> Two females of unsavory reputation were jailed by Marshal Vawter on Thursday evening, and next morning on being brought before the Mayor were each fined $10 and sentenced to ten days in jail. <B>February 21 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <B>From same paper</B>  Butler s Switch column  The inmates of a rented house in this neighborhood seems to take delight in having dances. Their whoops and hurrahs are heard quite often, greatly to the annoyance of the neighborhood. Come out Judge, and have it stopped.<BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1878</B></FONT><BR> Vernon Local News Column  A young gent from Butler s Switch tried to feast his eyes on the beauties confined in jail here, and one of the fair damsels treated his shirt bosom to a mouthful of coffee, squirted through the bars. <B>October 17 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1878</B></FONT><BR> Postoffices  There are in this county 18, postoffices as follows: North Vernon, Vernon, Scipio, Butlerville, Six Mile, Queensville, Lovett, Commiskey, Paris, Paris Crossing, Cana, Benville, San Jacinto, Butler s Switch, Nebraska, Zenas, Oakdale and Brewersville. The two first are we believe the only Money Order Offices, but registered letters are received at and sent out from all. <B>November 14 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <B>From same paper</B>: Queensville has a reading club, - it is that far ahead of this city.<BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1878</B></FONT><BR> From the Things Occurring at Zenas column  The high courts of Columbia township have been crowded with business of late, being kept in session almost day and night, until last week Esquire DORRELL was called to Madison on the SHAFFER trial, which put a temporary check on proceedings here. Considerable feeling is manifested here over the shooting of Mr. WOODS, by JOHN ELLIOTT, which occurred not long since. JOHN says WOODS, made an attack on his house with a rail, trying to break in, and he shot him in defense of his life and property. WOODS says he was passing by and stepped in to try to quell a domestic row which was in progress there and ELLIOTT shot him as soon as he entered the house. He was wounded in both legs below the knee. In a suit for provoke, recently tried before Squire DARRELL, between J. H. MCNEW and THOMAS SMITH, MCNEW was fined one dollar and costs, amounting in all, to about forty dollars. MAC talks of appealing to court  Zenas has organized a string band composed of TOMMY WOOD, JACOB O CONNER and others. They are practicing under the direction of Prof. JAMES O CONNER. <B>Plain Dealer of December 5</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1878</B></FONT><BR> A ludicrous mishap occurred to the occupants of a sleigh on Saturday morning, near the west end of the depot (North Vernon). The sleigh box slid off the runners which were carried away by the horses, leaving the sleighing party in the snow. <B>December 26 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1879</B></FONT><BR> The Wimple Creek Items column : Perhaps some of the many readers of the Plain Dealer do not know where Wimple Creek is. To such I will say, if any there be, that it is in Sandcreek township, three miles south of Sardinia, and one mile west of Brewersville, and some considerable distance from any other town or city. <B>January 9 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1879</B></FONT><BR> In a newspaper published in Indianapolis in the year 1839 we find that JAMES FISHER was engaged in manufacturing mill stones in the quarry three miles east of Scipio, in this country. We believe that business in not carried on at that place at the present time. Can t some one of the old settlers give us a few notes of the olden times for publication? <B>Plain Dealer of April 3</B><BR> <P> <B>From same paper</B>  We are indebted to Mr. ANDY WHELAN for the following particulars of a very narrow escape from drowning of Mr. THOMAS PIERCE and son and Mrs. ROWDEBUSH. Mr. PIERCE had started to Vernon on Thursday morning last, having in his wagon besides the persons named several large iron kettles and one or two barrels. Arriving at WILSON S ford he saw at once that the water was up, and that the crossing would be dangerous, but thought he could get over safe. As soon as the current struck the wagon, it floated down stream, the horses heading up and swimming. The quick submersion was almost fatal to the occupants of the wagon, as they were up to their necks in deep muddy water and a strong current sweeping them down. Mrs. ROWDEBUSH threw her shawl about her face and thus kept herself from strangling. PIERCE was managing the horses and helping his boy. A landing was made in some way, but the wagon bed floated off and was afterwards caught and tied up. We have no account of how the persons in the wagon bed got ashore, but they must have got out of the wagon and waded ashore through the water. Their escape was miraculous, as WILSON S is the most dangerous ford on the creek. Mr. LEWIS FULKERSON, of this city, had a somewhat similar experience on the same morning at the same place. He drove his horse and buggy into the creek and all at once he was breast deep in the water and his buggy upset. His overcoat, cushion and box of monumental designs floated off. He got safely to land and proceeding at once to SULLIVAN S ford some distance below, waded in and as they came to him rescued the coat and cushion; the box had gone to the bottom. It was here that Mr. ROWDEBUSH lost his life some years ago in attempting to cross on a horse. We are told that there is no real necessity for keeping this ford open, and the road leading to it might profitably be closed.<BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1879</B></FONT><BR> JAMES HARTWELL, 11 year old son of SIM HARTWELL, of Vernon, while fishing at the Tunnel Mill Dam on Saturday, was struck by a log which was rolled over the hill by another boy, and sustained injures from which he will probably not recover. The log struck him at the thigh and one leg was crushed to the foot, and the bone broken in three places. <B>May 1 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <A NAME="1880"> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1880</B></FONT><BR> A Boat Ride in a Buggy - While out on business on Thursday E. H. TRIPP reached the SHIELD S ford on the Muscatatuck, a short distance north of Butlerville, and thought the recent rains had caused the creek to be in a flooded state he thought he could cross safely. But the water was too deep and strong for ERNEST, and away down stream went he, the horse and buggy going along with him; or he with them. He made a safe landing a short distance below where he entered the water, but the had considerable difficulty in getting the horse and vehicle into the road after landing, doing so with the aid of Mr. ELIJAH DAVIS and sons, to whom he asks us to return his thanks. The DAVISES cleared a way through the bushes on a steep hillside, and carried the buggy up. <B>April 22 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <FONT COLOR="Blue"><B>1880</B></FONT><BR> The Directors say the Vernon, Greensburg and Rushville Railroad will be open for traffic on the 1st day of November. All the ties and rails necessary for the building of the road are already purchased. <B>May 15 Plain Dealer</B><BR> <P> <B>From same paper</B>  The Hail Storm  On Sunday afternoon about 3 o clock, this place was the scene of a somewhat violent hail storm. Much rain fell with the hail, and those who were out in the storm, and they were many for it came suddenly and without warning, were wet through and well pelted by the globules of falling ice. The service at the Catholic Church had just closed and the people who had attended, were out in most of it, as the time the storm lasted was short  only about 12 minutes. The ground was covered with hail and the gutters and ditches full of rushing waters in a very few minutes, but drifts of hail continued to lie in sheltered places all afternoon. The pelting hail injured grapes and fruit to a