Indiana

Biography of Elmer Ellsworth Fornshell

Elmer Ellsworth Fornshell, born on July 2, 1861, in Camden, Ohio, has been a significant figure in Elwood since becoming postmaster in 1905. He is best known for establishing the Leader newspaper and later merging it with the Call to form the Call-Leader, which became a vital part of the community. A Republican, he served in the Indiana legislature in 1897 and briefly as mayor of Elwood. Fornshell is involved in local banking and fraternal organizations, and he is married to Emma Conover with one son, Fred.

Biography of Lewis Heffner

Lewis Heffner, born on October 5, 1839, in Berks County, Pennsylvania, has been a pivotal figure in Elwood’s development over four decades. Initially a blacksmith’s son, he became a skilled millwright before relocating to Indiana. He established a sawmill in Elwood and ventured into lumber and coal businesses, actively contributing to the city’s growth. Married to Sophia Emeline Ferguson, Heffner had seven children. A respected community member, he briefly served on the city council and supported Prohibition principles throughout his life.

Biography of Bertan E. Sneed

Bertan E. Sneed, born January 27, 1874, in Breckenridge, Missouri, is a prominent pharmacist and businessman in Elwood, Indiana. Coming from a legacy of pioneers, he advanced in the drug trade through determination and skill, eventually owning a leading drugstore. After attending Missouri Wesleyan College, Sneed worked in various drugstores before establishing his own in Elwood in 1910. Married to Lottie McCallister, they have three children. Sneed is a Republican and active in local organizations, representing the progressive spirit of Elwood’s citizens.

Biography of John H. Lail, M. D.

John H. Lail, M.D., a prominent physician in Anderson since 1905, is noted for his significant contributions to medicine and patient care. Born in Indiana in 1865, he graduated from the Physio-Medical College in 1893 and began his practice in Ingalls before relocating to Anderson. Renowned for his medical expertise and compassionate approach, Dr. Lail has earned recognition among his peers and patients alike. Married to Effie Newsom, they have three children and remain active in their community and medical associations.

Biography of Elmer A. Guy

Elmer A. Guy, born on July 11, 1875, in Walton, Indiana, has established himself as a prominent businessman in Elwood over the past twenty years. He operates two successful cigar, tobacco, and confectionery stores in Elwood and one in Tipton. A descendant of early settlers, Guy was educated in local schools and began his career in retail in 1893. Married to Maude E. Venard, he is active in various fraternal organizations and is dedicated to the betterment of his community as a Democratic citizen.

Biography of Ivan C. Dunlap

Ivan C. Dunlap, born on September 20, 1881, in Arrowsmith, Illinois, is a prominent businessman in Elwood, Indiana, known for his successful jewelry establishment. He was raised on a farm and educated in local schools, later attending Illinois Wesleyan University. After training in watchmaking, he managed a jewelry store before establishing his own in the Milligan Block. Married to Ora V. Kenton, they have four children and are active members of the Methodist Church, with Dunlap also involved in the Elks and Sigma Chi fraternity.

Biography of Bartlett H. Campbell

Bartlett H. Campbell, born on April 14, 1862, in Madison County, has been a prominent lawyer and political leader for over twenty years. A senior partner at Campbell Kidwell in Elwood, he previously served as prosecuting attorney and city attorney in Anderson. Educated locally, Campbell began his legal career after working as a teacher and assistant postmaster. He is a key figure in the Democratic Party and has held various leadership roles. Married to Luella Wright, they have seven children and actively participate in their community’s Christian church.

Biography of Bushrod W. Scott

Bushrod W. Scott, born on June 9, 1839, in Monongahela County (now West Virginia), moved to Madison County, Indiana, around 1860. He worked his way up from a clerk to a successful merchant, eventually founding his own businesses, including partnerships and a general store. Of colonial descent, Bushrod is linked to Major David Scott, a friend of George Washington, and Colonel James Scott, a prominent War of 1812 figure. He married Maanda Williams and had four children while maintaining a successful farming operation alongside his business pursuits.

Biography of John A. Moon

John A. Moon, born November 16, 1848, in Clinton County, Ohio, has been an influential resident of Elwood for over twenty years. Initially a farmer, he transitioned to various roles before establishing a successful picture-framing business in 1911. Married to Maggie Page, they had three children, with Lora and Lillie continuing the family legacy. Active in the local Christian Church, Moon has contributed significantly to Elwood’s growth and development while earning the respect of his community and peers.

Biography of Mark E. Winings

Mark E. Winings, born on April 22, 1878, in Millville, Indiana, has been a prominent figure in Elwood for a decade, operating an undertaking business at 1610 Main Street. He gained practical experience in the profession before serving in the Spanish-American War. Following his military service, Winings worked as a government embalmer aboard the USS McClellan, traveling extensively. He eventually became the sole proprietor of his business in Elwood, where he has found notable success. He is married with two children and is active in various fraternal organizations.

Biography of Joseph H. Elliott

Joseph H. Elliott, a prominent businessman residing in Anderson since 1904, was born in Ohio to a family with deep roots in North Carolina. He was educated in Greenfield, Ohio, and began his career assisting his father in a shop before moving into various business roles in Illinois. In 1904, he established a grocery and provision business in Anderson. Elliott married Mary A. McCracken in 1878, and they had two sons. He was an active member of the Methodist church and the Modern Woodmen of America.

Biography of Orlando D. Hinshaw

Orlando D. Hinshaw, born on October 21, 1875, in Sheridan, Indiana, is a prominent druggist and influential citizen of Elwood. Since 1905, he has successfully operated a pharmacy, earning the trust of the community. A devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Hinshaw also participates in various fraternal organizations. He is recognized for his contributions to public welfare rather than politics. Married to Cora Perry, they have one son, Eugene. Hinshaw’s career reflects his commitment to both his profession and the betterment of society.

Biography of Hon. John Larue Forkner

John LaRue Forkner, born January 20, 1844, in Indiana, has significantly influenced Madison County’s civic and business landscape for nearly fifty years. He began his career as a clerk, later becoming city clerk, deputy sheriff, and city councilman. Forkner was elected mayor twice, overseeing vital infrastructure developments. He also held positions in banking and was instrumental in local industries and utilities, including natural gas and electric services. A historian, he published “Historical Sketches and Reminiscences of Madison County,” earning recognition for his contributions to local history.

Biography of Thomas Morris

Thomas Morris, born January 22, 1851, in Madison County, Indiana, is a dedicated farmer who exemplifies the modern principles of agricultural success through perseverance and intelligent methods. Owning 80 acres on Lapel Road, he has significantly contributed to his community’s development. Educated in local schools, he began farming at 20, gradually expanding his operations. Well-regarded for his cultivated property and community involvement, Morris is a devoted family man and a member of the Methodist church, embodying the ethics of his profession.

Biographical Sketch of Emerson Manger

Emerson Manger, born on August 29, 1881, in Pike County, Ohio, is a notable farmer in Union Township, operating an eighty-acre farm near Chesterfield. With a commitment to agriculture and local success, he has made significant strides in his field. Manger, the son of William and Sallie Manger, experienced early loss with his father’s death and was later raised by his mother and stepfather, William Butler Bronnenberg. He married Hazel Hancock in 1905 and has two sons, Harold and Ralph. A Democratic, non-political figure, he is active in local fraternal organizations.

Biography of Walter Maul

Walter Maul, born December 24, 1871, in Pendleton, is a lifelong resident and successful brick-mason contractor. He began his career at fourteen after learning the trade. The son of George K. Maul, a Civil War veteran, and Susan R. Parson, Walter has been self-reliant throughout his life. He married Flora Belle Kennedy in 1892, with whom he had two children. Engaged in general contracting since 1906, he remains active in local fraternal organizations and identifies as a Republican.

Biography of John A. Smethers

John A. Smethers, born on August 20, 1867, in Greene Township, Madison County, is a dedicated farmer and community member. The son of James W. Smethers, John worked on the family farm before pursuing various business ventures, including the produce and grocery sectors. Elected assessor of Greene Township in 1908, he later acquired land to farm. Married to Merrilla M. Richards, they have one daughter, Mildred. Active in local organizations, Smethers is a Republican, contributing significantly to his community.

Biography of Benjamin H. Cook, M. D.

Dr. Benjamin H. Cook, born August 22, 1858, in Hancock County, Indiana, became a prominent physician after graduating from the Medical College of Indiana in 1885. Practicing initially in Wilkinson for 17 years, he moved to Anderson in 1903, where he established a respected medical practice. A dedicated member of medical and fraternal organizations, he has made significant contributions to his community. Married to Laura E. Cooper, they have seven children. Dr. Cook’s enduring success is marked by his commitment to continual learning and patient care.

Biography of Thomas Morris Hardy

Thomas Morris Hardy

Thomas Morris Hardy (1840-1913) was a prominent figure in Pendleton, Indiana, known for his contributions as a soldier, educator, farmer, and banker. A veteran of the Civil War, he returned to a diverse career, becoming the president of the Pendleton Banking Company and significantly influencing local education and culture. His generosity was instrumental in establishing the Pendleton Public Library, where he served as president of the Library board. Despite having no biological children, Hardy raised five children, promoting their education and moral development.

Biography of John Meckel

John Meckel, born on June 25, 1844, in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a prominent architect known for his significant contributions to the city of Anderson, Indiana. With a background in carpentry and a self-taught architectural education, he has designed numerous buildings, including dwellings, schools, and the Anderson Opera House. He began his career in 1885 after relocating to Anderson. A devoted family man, he married twice and has several children. Active in fraternal organizations and local politics, Meckel’s work reflects his commitment to his community.