Richard MEAD graduates from Butler University (1937)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the 1937-1938 school year, among those who received degrees in 1937 was Richard Powell Mead of Danville, receiving a Master of Arts (majoring in Christian Doctrine). His thesis was "History of Education among the Disciples of Christ in Indiana". He received a Bachelor of Arts from Spokane University in 1929 and a Bachelor of Divinity from Butler University in 1935.

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

Vivian JONES graduates from Butler University (1937)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the 1937-1938 school year, among those who received degrees in 1937 was Vivian L. Jones of Danville, receiving a Master of Science (she received a Bachelor of Science from Indiana State Teachers College in 1931).

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

Dates of death from Hendricks County estate cases 1927-1930 added

An index to the dates of death from estate cases listed in the Hendricks County probate docket and fee books for the years 1927 through 1930 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site.

ABOUT THESE RECORDS: A docket and fee book contains a brief summary of a probate case, with notations of when the case was opened and closed as well as references to other record books. For more information on an estate case, you should consult probate order books and the probate packet itself (aka "loose papers").

The Hendricks County Government's Archive has digital files of the probate docket and fee books for the years 1912-1945.

Leah Clarice OVERSTREET graduates from Butler University (1931)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the 1931-1932 school year, among those who received degrees in 1931 was Leah Clarice Overstreet of Pittsboro - she received a Bachelor of Music (her major was Public School Music).

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

Donis Dee CANARY graduates from Butler University (1931)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the 1931-1932 school year, among those who received degrees in 1931 was Donis Dee Canary of Clayton - she received a Bachelor of Music (her major was Public School Music).

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

Township Trustees in Hendricks County (1905)

These were the trustees of the various townships in Hendricks County in 1905, followed by their post office address (including rural routes). This information comes from Hendricks County Public Schools: Officers and Teachers 1905-1906 by G.M. Wilson, County Superintendent:

Brown Township - Patrick Long, Brownsburg RR 2
Center Township - E.P. Thompson, Danville
Clay Township - W.E. Greenlee, Reno
Eel River Township - Nathan A. Tucker, North Salem
Franklin Township - Everett R. Robards, Stilesville
Guilford Township - C.M. Havens, Plainfield
Liberty Township - A.K. Gilbert, Clayton
Lincoln Township - M.T. Hunter, Brownsburg
Marion Township - Rufus Wright, Danville RR 2
Middle Township - W.A. Hollingsworth, Pittsboro
Union Township - George W. English, Lizton
Washington Township - E.E. Blair, Danville RR 1

Caroldine OSBORN graduates from Butler University (1937)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the 1937-1938 school year, among those who received degrees in 1937 was Caroldine Osborn of Coatesville, receiving a Bachelor of Science (majoring in Education).

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

Harlan VanVactor HADLEY graduates from Butler University (1931)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the 1931-1932 school year, among those who received degrees in 1931 was Harlan VanVactor Hadley of Danville - he received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism.

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

Robert Franklin DAVIDSON graduates from Butler University (1893)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the 1893-1894 school year, among those who received degrees in 1893 was Robert Franklin Davidson of North Salem - he received a Master of Arts (he already had an A.B. degree).

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

Hendricks County marriage applications index 1937-1938 added

An index to Hendricks County Marriage Applications Book 19 (which covers 9 June 1937 to 31 August 1938) has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The index is in progress - so far it covers 1905 through 1938.

ABOUT THESE RECORDS: Beginning in May 1905, Indiana law required the recording of marriage applications, which included biographical details about the bride and the groom, as well as their parents. In Hendricks County, the information from these applications was kept in a separate set of books from the marriage record from May 1905 until June 1950.

The Hendricks County Government's Archive has digital files of all of the marriage application books.

Otis W. GREEN graduates from Butler University (1890)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the thirty-sixth session (1890-1891), among those who received degrees in 1890 was Otis W. Green of Plainfield - he received a Bachelor of Science degree.

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

B. Marshal DAVIS graduates from Butler University (1890)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the thirty-sixth session (1890-1891), among those who received degrees in 1890 was B. Marshal Davis of North Salem - he received a Bachelor of Science degree.

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

New Winchester High School graduates 1909-1963 added

An index of graduates of New Winchester High School from 1909 to 1963 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This listing was extracted from a booklet, History of Schools of Marion Township, Hendricks County, Indiana, which was published by the Alumni Association of New Winchester High School in 1970.

1909 was the first year the high school was in existence; it closed in 1963, as part of the consolidation of schools in the county. Students from the New Winchester area were transferred to Danville High School.

John L. GUNN attends Butler University (1858)

According to Northwestern Christian University's annual catalog for the 1857-1858 session, among those students attending was John L. Gunn of Plainfield - he was in the English Department.

NOTE: Northwestern Christian University later changed its name to Butler University. It is in Indianapolis.

C.B. HUNT attends Butler University (1858)

According to Northwestern Christian University's annual catalog for the 1857-1858 session, among those students attending was C.B. Hunt of Belleville - he was in the College Preparatory Course.

NOTE: Northwestern Christian University later changed its name to Butler University. It is in Indianapolis.

Gideon HEAVENRIDGE attends Butler University (1858)

According to Northwestern Christian University's annual catalog for the 1857-1858 session, among those students attending was Gideon Heavenridge of Stilesville - he was in the College Preparatory Course.

NOTE: Northwestern Christian University later changed its name to Butler University. It is in Indianapolis.

J.V. HADLEY attends Butler University (1858)

According to Northwestern Christian University's annual catalog for the 1857-1858 session, among those students attending was J.V. Hadley of Plainfield - he was in the College Preparatory Course.

NOTE: Northwestern Christian University later changed its name to Butler University. It is in Indianapolis.

John M. & J.H. SNODDY attend Butler University (1858)

According to Northwestern Christian University's annual catalog for the 1857-1858 session, among those students attending were John M. Snoddy and J.H. Snoddy, both of Stilesville - they were both freshmen.

NOTE: Northwestern Christian University later changed its name to Butler University. It is in Indianapolis.

A.J. MOODIE attends Butler University (1858)

According to Northwestern Christian University's annual catalog for the 1857-1858 session, among those students attending was A.J. Moodie of Belleville - he was a freshman in the Scientific Course.

NOTE: Northwestern Christian University later changed its name to Butler University. It is in Indianapolis.

T.R. LAWHEAD attends Butler University (1858)

According to Northwestern Christian University's annual catalog for the 1857-1858 session, among those students attending was T.R. Lawhead of Plainfield - he was a freshman in the Scientific Course.

NOTE: Northwestern Christian University later changed its name to Butler University. It is in Indianapolis.

Dates of death from Hendricks County estate cases 1912-1915 added

An index to the dates of death from estate cases listed in the Hendricks County probate docket and fee books for the years 1912 through 1915 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site.

ABOUT THESE RECORDS: A docket and fee book contains a brief summary of a probate case, with notations of when the case was opened and closed as well as references to other record books. For more information on an estate case, you should consult probate order books and the probate packet itself (aka "loose papers").

The Hendricks County Government's Archive has digital files of the probate docket and fee books for the years 1912-1945.

Urban C. BREWER attends Butler University (1858)

According to Northwestern Christian University's annual catalog for the 1857-1858 session, among those students attending was Urban C. Brewer of Belleville - he was a freshman in the Scientific Course.

NOTE: Northwestern Christian University later changed its name to Butler University. It is in Indianapolis.

Jacob LOCKHART attends Butler University (1858)

According to Northwestern Christian University's annual catalog for the 1857-1858 session, among those students attending was Jacob Lockhart of Belleville - he was a sophomore and was also listed as a junior in the Law Department.

NOTE: Northwestern Christian University later changed its name to Butler University. It is in Indianapolis.

Robert Franklin DAVIDSON graduates from Butler University (1892)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the thirty-eighth session (1892-1893), among those who received degrees in 1892 was Robert Franklin Davidson of North Salem - he received a Bachelor of Science degree.

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

Gertrude JOHNSON graduates from Butler University (1892)

According to Butler University's annual catalog for the thirty-eighth session (1892-1893), among those who received degrees in 1892 was Gertrude Johnson of Clayton - she received a Bachelor of Arts degree.

NOTE: Butler University is in Indianapolis.

Belle ROBINSON files for divorce (1924)

According to civil court docket books of the Hendricks County Circuit Court, on October 29, 1924 Belle M. Robinson filed for divorce from Raymond M. Robinson (case #11662). On October 7, 1930, the court on its own motion dismissed the case for want of prosecution, and the case was stricken from the docket at no cost to the plaintiff.

Scott NEELY paroled from Indiana Reformatory in Jeffersonville (1921)

According to a discharge form found in Hendricks County court papers, Scott Neely was committed to the Indiana State Reformatory in Jeffersonville on 16 February 1920 and was paroled on 12 March 1921.

Chester BIBY paroled from Indiana State Reformatory in Jeffersonville (1921)

According to a discharge form found in Hendricks County court papers, Chester Biby (inmate #11265) was committed to the Indiana State Reformatory in Jeffersonville on 16 February 1920 and was paroled on 12 March 1921.

Hendricks County marriage applications index 1936-1937 added

An index to Hendricks County Marriage Applications Book 18 (which covers 2 May 1936 to 5 June 1937) has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The index is in progress - so far it covers 1905 through 1937.

ABOUT THESE RECORDS: Beginning in May 1905, Indiana law required the recording of marriage applications, which included biographical details about the bride and the groom, as well as their parents. In Hendricks County, the information from these applications was kept in a separate set of books from the marriage record from May 1905 until June 1950.

The Hendricks County Government's Archive has digital files of all of the marriage application books.

Maggie SHIRLEY petitions to modify divorce decree (1901)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 46 (December 1900 - October 1901), in January 1901 Maggie Shirley (formerly Maggie Reitzel) petitioned the court to modify her divorce decree from Emmett Reitzel (case #6938). The decree had given her custody of their child, Clifford Reitzel, with Emmett Reitzel allowed to take the child 1 day a week as long as he returned him by bedtime. Maggie's petition asked for exclusive custody and no visitation rights; Emmett filed a cross-petition asking for exclusive custody. The judge ruled that the previous order was to stand and ordered both parties to pay their respective court costs.

Hiram EVERT granted divorce (1901)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 46 (December 1900 - October 1901), in March 1901 Hiram Evert was granted a divorce from Hattie Evert (case #6998). Hiram was also awarded the custody of their children Grace Evert and Stella Evert, while Hattie was given the custody of their children Burlie Evert and Jessie Evert.

Henry Fay AYERS adopted (1901)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 46 (December 1900 - October 1901), in October 1901 Henry Horatio Ayers and Mary Viola Ayers of Indianapolis filed a petition to adopt Henry Fay Ayers, who was born on September 19, 1897 and was 4 years old. The father of the child, Amos Dickson Ayers (who gave his residence as being near Royalton, Boone County, Indiana) gave his consent to the adoption. The child's mother, Delilah Jane Ayers, was deceased.

Mary (MILES) MURPHY of North Salem dies (1934)

[NOTE: Thank you to Karen Zach for sharing this obituary]

source: Crawfordsville Journal-Review (Crawfordsville, Indiana) - issue of 22 March 1934 - page 11:

North Salem, March 22 - Mrs. Mary Miles Murphy, wife of Elbert M. Murphy, well known and highly respected woman of this community, passed away Tuesday night after an illness which began over two years ago, with a heart affliction. Her condition became critical only Sunday. Funeral services will be conducted in the Methodist Church at two o'clock Friday afternoon by Rev. Stanley Hall and interment will be at Fairview Cemetery. The body will lie in state from one o'clock until the funeral hour. Mrs. Murphy was the daughter of John Henry and Roseanna Miles and was born March 11, 1862 near Southport, where she spent her early life.

She was married to Mr. Murphy in 1884 and to this union was born one daughter, Gladys who died in infancy. She was a devoted member of the ME Church which she joined at Glenn's Valley in 1882 and faithfully performed her duties in the ME church here as long as her health permitted. Surviving with the husband are two sisters, Mrs. Roseanna Ballard of Westfield and Mrs. Etolia Strum of West Newton and two brothers, William Miles, of Louisville, Ky. and John H. Miles of Glenn's Valley.

Bertha THOMPSON granted divorce (1901)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 46 (December 1900 - October 1901), in May 1901 Bertha E. Thompson was granted a divorce from Elmer L. Thompson (case #7037). William Merritt was given the custody of the couple's child, Bernice May Thompson, until she turned 21 - if Merritt died before she reached that age, then Elmer was to be given custody. Both Bertha and Elmer were to be allowed to visit their child at Merritt's house.

Salaries of Hendricks County government officials (1933)

The Indiana General Assembly passed a law in February 1933 (Acts of 1933, Chapter 21) establishing what the annual salaries were of the various officials in county government. The salaries were based on what each county's population was, with officials in larger counties receiving the larger salaries.

These were the salaries of Hendricks County officials:

Hendricks County Auditor - $2,160
Hendricks County Treasurer - $1,840
Hendricks County Clerk - $1,840
Hendricks County Sheriff - $1,840
Hendricks County Recorder - $1,200
Hendricks County Surveyor - $950
Hendricks County Assessor - $1,080
Hendricks County Superintendent - $1,720
Hendricks County Commissioner - $320

Emily MELLINGER granted divorce (1901)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 46 (December 1900 - October 1901), in March 1901 Emily Mellinger was granted a divorce from Jacob Mellinger (case #6973). She was also awarded custody of their children - John Mellinger, Lucinda Mellinger, William Mellinger, Arthur Mellinger and Theodore Mellinger.

Index to Hendricks County 1850 mortality schedule added

An index of the 1850 mortality schedule for Hendricks County has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The 1850 mortality schedule was a supplemental schedule to the 1850 federal census, and it recorded information about those who had died between 1 June 1849 and 31 May 1850.

Four men arrested for murder of Wilson HAYNES (1901)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, December 26, 1901 - page 1, column 4:

IN JAIL
Four Coatesville Men Charged With Haynes Murder
The alleged murderers of Wilson Haynes are in jail. Thursday afternoon Charles Hampton, Fred Cassity, Obe Hampton and Frank Stewart, Jr. were arrested. Two of them are confined on the south side and two on the north side so that they cannot communicate with each other. Sheriff Figg, Deputy Sheriffs Sears, Marshall and Charles McCurdy gathered them in. Charles, or as he is better known, Jack Hampton, was arrested in O'Brien's drug store where he clerks. Fred Cassity was arrested in the country and Obe Hampton and Stewart were arrested in the country together. They made no attempt to resist arrest.

The names of these men have been used in connection with the murder almost from the first. Jack Hampton has been clerking in O'Brien's drug store. Cassity works on the section. Obe Hampton has only one arm and cannot do a man's full work. Stewart teams and does odd jobs. Obe Hampton has served a term in prison for being implicated in stealing a barrel of whisky from a car at Coatesville and he lost an arm under a train. About a year ago Fred Cassity was struck by a train near Clayton but not seriously hurt.

Very properly, the state is not giving out the information on which the grand jury returned its indictment. It may be said, however, the grand jury believes that the murderer of Wilson Haynes is one of the four. It is not thought that all are equally guilty but that some of them are implicated by assisting in covering up the tracks of the guilty after the deed was done. The grand jury sifted the whole matter and heard both sides of the case. Most of the witnesses were before that body twice and a singular fact is that the stories of these four differed in essential details on the different occasions on which they appeared before the grand jury.

The evidence is entirely circumstantial, but very strong, and it is thought possible that one of them may turn state's evidence before the trial is completed. All the evidence before the grand jury was taken down by a stenographer and it is believed this will be valuable at the trial. There is a feeling that Haynes was not struck in the shed where his body was found, but that his body was carried there. The instrument which caused his death is thought to have been a sling-shot, a long leather pouch, one end of which was filled with shot.

The grand jury was an excellent body of men of good judgment. It was composed of J.K. Little, Charles E. Hadley, John Leachman, John Snipes, Martin Long and Robert Westerfield.

Anna BARKER granted divorce (1902)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 47 (November 1901 - October 1902), in March 1902 Anna M. Barker was granted a divorce from Franklin H. Barker (case #7103). She was also awarded custody of their children - Emerson N. Barker, Ethel Barker, Edith Barker and Ruth Barker. Franklin was allowed to visit his children for at least 3 hours once every 60 days, provided he gave Anna 2 days prior notice. Anna was also to permit Franklin to write to the children.

Peter DAVIS arrested for murder of Sam FLETCHER (1902)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, July 17, 1902 - page 1, column 6:

A MURDER
Southern Hendricks the Scene of a Fatal Stabbing
Hendricks County was the scene of another murder yesterday. Peter Davis stabbed Sam Fletcher to the heart, the latter dying instantly. The affray was about 100 yards north of the Center Valley school house and was the result of an old feud.

Fletcher was at Comp Johnson's store at Center Valley talking with a party of young people. Davis went by riding on a hayrake. Fletcher followed him and words passed between them. Fletcher left his buggy and with his whip in his hand ran after Davis who had dismounted from the hayrake. Davis drew his knife and when Fletcher came near, Davis struck at him, the blade penetrating Fletcher's heart. He died in the road. Both were about 21 years old. The affray occurred at 4:30 p.m.

Great excitement was caused in the community and some of Fletcher's friends breathed vengeance against Davis. He became alarmed and hitched up his buggy and started to Danville, bringing Emory Johnson along for company. They reached Danville near ten o'clock and finding Watchman Bryant, David asked him to lock him up. Sheriff Figg and Deputy Sears had gone to Center Valley after Davis. Mr. Bryant took Davis to jail, searched him and found nothing, and then put him behind the bars.

Mr. Johnson, who came with Davis, said that Fletcher struck Davis several times with the whip before Davis used his knife.

Mary RUSSELL granted divorce (1902)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 47 (November 1901 - October 1902), in April 1902 Mary C. Russell was granted a divorce from James W. Russell (case #7138) after he failed to appear for the trial. She was also awarded custody of their children - Amanda May Russell, Milton M. Russell, Michael E. Russell and Franklin C. Russell.

Washington Township high school holds its first commencement (1901)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, April 4, 1901 - page 1, column 3:

[Avon news]
The first annual commencement of the Washington Township high school was held in the M.E. church Thursday evening. The church was beautifully decorated for the occasion with flowers, the class colors, white and purple, and large flags for the background. That our citizens realized that this occasion meant that Washington Township has taken an advanced step in the direction of higher education for the masses, was shown by the large and attentive audience that filled the church. Besides the graduates, Supt. Hostetter, Rev. Riley, Trustee Miller and Prof. Kirby occupied seats on the stage. The music was furnished by the Demarcus orchestra and it was an enjoyable part of the programme. Rev. Riley gave the invocation and benediction. Miss Nora Long's subject was "Golden Deeds" and her oration was excellent. Miss Lulu McCalment spoke on "Joan of Arc" and she held the rapt attention of her hearers. Alva Rice eloquently spoke on "Will, the Greatest Element of Success." Miss Minnie Montgomery gave an interesting talk on "What Constitutes a Good Education." Charley Montgomery and William Simmons also graduated but sickness prevented their speaking. Prof. Kirby presented the diplomas and Supt. Hostetter gave a short, interesting talk.

Waymon SPANGLER sent to Indiana Boys School (1903)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 48 (November 1902 - December 1903), in September 1903 Waymon Spangler was committed to the Indiana Boys School in Plainfield for "instruction and discipline" after Louisa Spangler made a complaint.

Tillman SPARKS arrested for murder (1902)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, October 16, 1902 - page 1, column 6:

CHARGED WITH MURDER
An echo of the Merlin Moon murder at Cartersburg in July, 1900, has been heard this week. Tillman Sparks who went with Fred Okeley to arrest Moon was arrested in Indianapolis by Constable Clements on a warrant sworn out by Moon's mother charging Sparks with the murder. It will be remembered that Okeley and Sparks went to Moon's house to arrest him for assault. Moon saw them coming and arming himself with a shot gun announced he would kill the first man that entered the house. Okeley and Sparks both fired at Moon and Moon ran out of the house and died in a few minutes. Okeley had fired once and Sparks twice. Okeley's shot struck a chair. Both of Sparks' shots took effect, one in the breast, one in the hip. Okeley used a 38-caliber gun, Sparks a 32. There was some flurry at the time of the affair but both were exonerated by the coroner. Sparks is now in jail.

Jeptha D. WEST charged with trying to kill his wife (1902)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 48 (November 1902 - December 1903), in November 1902 Jeptha D. West was charged with assault and battery with intent to kill his wife Sarah West (case #4309). The judge released him from county jail on his own recognizance, provided he sign an affidavit agreeing to leave the state of Indiana and stay away from the state so long as his wife lived, and to abstain from drinking intoxicating liquor.

Bert ANNADELL arrested after attempted elopement (1901)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, September 5, 1901 - page 1, column 5:

DID NOT SUCCEED
Attempted Elopement Lodges the Man in Jail

There was an attempted elopement Sunday evening. The principals were Bert Annadell and Mabel Johnson, daughter of Lon Johnson, who bought the Bodenhamer farm a few months ago.

Annadell has been working for Mr. Johnson and an attachment sprang up between him and Mr. Johnson's daughter. Annadell is twenty-one and the girl is in the neighborhood of sixteen. Sunday evening she and her sisters went after the cows and at the edge of the pasture they met Annadell. Miss Mabel and Annadell directed the sister to drive home the cows while they started on their trip by walking to Danville. When the sister arrived home she told her father and immediately search was made for the couple. Valuable time was lost in going to Clayton for them. Then Mr. Johnson telephoned to Danville and came here himself in company with his son, Clifton, and Ira Martin.

In Danville, they learned that a couple had secured arig and a driver and left town, presumably for Bridgeport. The three were joined by Sheriff Figg and the four started in pursuit, young Johnson and Martin going to Indianapolis and Mr. Figg and Mr. Johnson going to Bridgeport where Annadell's mother lives. The Indianapolis party found no trace of them and came back via Bridgeport where they found Mr. Figg and Mr. Johnson with the couple, they having been found at Annadell's mother's where they had represented themselves as having been married. Annadell was lodged in jail and the girl was taken home. Monday an affidavit was filed against Annadell charging him with seduction.

The plan of the couple was to go to Cincinnati Monday morning and be married.

[NOTE: According to Hendricks County marriage records, Bert Anadell and Annie Mabel Johnson were married on 17 November 1901]

Sarah WOOD granted divorce (1903)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 48 (November 1902 - December 1903), in March 1903 Sarah E. Wood was granted a divorce from John G. Wood after notices were published in the Plainfield Progress newspaper notifying him of the case. She was also awarded custody of their children - Earl Wood, age 19 and Tressie Wood, age 15.

John and Frank SHIPMAN drown in Morgan County (1908)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, August 6, 1908 - page 1, column 5:

DROWNED
John and Frank Shipman Meet Death in White Lick
John and Frank Shipman were drowned in White Lick near Centerton Saturday afternoon. Their bodies were brought to Avon for burial. The funeral was held at Wesley Chapel Monday afternoon, interment following.

They were sons of S.D. Shipman who formerly lived in Washington Township but now lives south of Martinsville. John Shipman and wife who live in Indianapolis, had been visiting in Morgan County and John left his father's house Saturday morning to return to his work in Indianapolis. On his way to Martinsville he changed his mind and decided to visit his brother, Frank, who worked for Wallace Pointer near Brooklyn. Another brother, Harry who works for William Leathers, joined them and they planned to go to Bethany Park but concluded to take a swim before going to the park.

They entered the water and after playing about they started to go around a deep hole when one of the boys said that they could swim it. Harry started across ahead of them and in a few minutes he heard one of them say: "Don't go so fast." Looking back he saw they were sinking. He tried to aid them but failed and began to call for help.

About 250 feet away some men were working on a bridge. They heard the cries and ran to his aid. Harry was clinging to the willows. He told them what had happened and securing a boat the men found the bodies, that of Frank about twenty minutes after he had gone down and John's ten minutes later. They lay in water about ten feet deep.

The Shipman family has been sadly afflicted. The drowning of the two boys brings the death roll up to five in recent years. Three years ago a son, Lester, was killed by an explosion on the battleship, Missouri, off Pensacola, Fla. Two daughters have died in the last few years.

John Shipman was 22 years of age and had been married eighteen months. Frank was not quite twenty.

Index to Hendricks County 1860 mortality schedule added

An index of the 1860 mortality schedule for Hendricks County has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The 1860 mortality schedule was a supplemental schedule to the 1860 federal census, and it recorded information about those who had died between 1 June 1859 and 31 May 1860.

Lotta HARRIS granted divorce (1903)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 48 (November 1902 - December 1903), in April 1903 Lotta B. Harris was granted a divorce from John W. Harris after he failed to show up at the trial. She was also given custody of their children - Ruth Harris age 10 and Clifford Harris age 4.

Joseph WOODS commits suicide (1901)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, April 25, 2901 - page 1, column 6:

SHOT HIMSELF
Joseph Woods Takes His Own Life Tuesday
The community was shocked Tuesday to learn of the suicide of Joseph Woods, a prosperous farmer, northeast of town. The act was committed about eight a.m. He had just been talking with his wife in the kitchen. She passed into another room. He took a shotgun, removed the trigger guard, placed the muzzle to the left side of his head and presumably kicked the trigger with his foot. His head was blown open and he died instantly.

His wife ran out instantly and saw his lifeless body. She called her daughter and rang the bell for help. The coroner was called and his verdict was suicide.

Mr. Woods was an excellent citizen who by industry and economy had prospered. He was justly held in high esteem by his neighbors. The fatal deed was done in a moment of temporary insanity. Early last winter, he had an attack of grip from which he did not fully recover. He went into the coal business in Danville but business life seemed to unnerve him and he soon sold out. During the icy weather, he fell and injured his head. Lately his manner has caused comment among friends and they feared he was losing his balance. A widow, a daughter and three sons survive. The funeral was yesterday afternoon at Bartlet's Chapel with burial at Cartersburg.

Letha SELCH granted divorce (1903)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 48 (November 1902 - December 1903), in February 1903 Letha Selch was granted a divorce from Frank Selch (case #7223) after he failed to show up for the trial. She was given $300 in alimony and custody of their children - Charles Selch, Dee Selch and Maud Selch - plus $12 a month in child support. She was also awarded $30 to reimburse her for her court costs.

Walter S. DAVIS becomes history professor in Washington State (1907)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, July 11, 1907 - page 1, column 4:

PROMOTED
Son of Hendricks County Receives Call from Far West
Prof. Walter S. Davis, son of the late Walter Davis, of Eel River Township, has accepted a call ot the chair of history in Puget Sound (Washington) University. He goes from the Richmond high school where he made a record as a most popular professor, placing his department among the best in the country. It is said that he was the most popular teacher in the Richmond schools.

Prof. Davis was born in this county, is a graduate of DePauw University where he was an honor student. He has done post-graduate work in Clark University and in the University of Chicago. He has traveled extensively, visiting the principal battlefields of America and Europe.

Gideon HEAVENRIDGE attends Butler University (1858)

According to Northwestern Christian University's annual catalog for the 1857-1858 session, among those students attending was Gideon Heavenridge of Stilesville - he was in the College Preparatory Course.

NOTE: Northwestern Christian University later changed its name to Butler University. It is in Indianapolis.

Results of first election for town of Plainfield (1904)

According to an entry in Hendricks County Circuit Court Book volume 49 (which covers January 1904 to February 1905), on Friday, June 24, 1904, the town of Plainfield held its first election, having recently been incorporated. The following residents were elected:

Town Clerk - Charles R. Harvey (defeated Claude Shane)
Town Treasurer - P.W. Raidabaugh
Town Trustee, 1st Ward - N.W. Frazier (defeated David Douglass)
Town Trustee, 2nd Ward - I.A. Johnson (defeated James P. Cope)
Town Trustee, 3rd Ward - John L. Gunn (defeated B.F. Ellis)
Town Marshal - Jacob Wickliff (defeated Jesse Wood, Woodson Bryant, Ed Robison, John Atwood, Joseph Alexander and Jacob White)

Former Hendricks County Recorder J. Lee BROWN dies in Iowa (1906)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, June 14, 1906 - page 1, column 3:

FORMERLY RECORDER
J. Lee Brown died at his home near Chariton, Iowa, May 24, of pneumonia. At his funeral services Col. Bartholomew paid a touching tribute to his memory. Mr. Brown was recorder of Hendricks County from 1866 to 1870 and upon leaving his office moved to Iowa. He was elected county auditor there three times and in 1883 was elected auditor of state. He became involved in an altercation with the governor and was impeached. Upon trial he was acquitted and reinstated in his office. He was a native of New Jersey, coming to Indiana in 1859. He served in the 70th regiment and at the battle of Resaca received a wound that necessitated the amputation of an arm. His wife who was Miss Esther Templin survives with nine children. The Chariton Herald pays him a marked tribute as a good citizen.

Ida (SERVIES) HADLEY granted divorce (1904)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 49 (January 1904 - February 1905), in April 1904 Ida F. Hadley was granted a divorce from Harry F. Hadley (case #7402). She was to receive $300 in alimony and allowed to resume using her maiden name, Ida F. Servies. Custody of their children, Blanch Hadley and Gladdis Hadley, was given to the children's grandfather, William C. Hadley, with Ida allowed to have the children visit her for 2 months each year - specifically, the months of July and August, when it would not interfere with their attending school.

Murder charges against William RAGAN dismissed (1901)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, April 11, 1901 - page 1, column 6

INDICTMENT NOLLIED
The indictment against William Ragan, charged with the murder of one Mackey at North Salem in the fall of 1899 has been nollied. Ragan has had two trials, the jury hanging in each instance. There is a general feeling that he never could have been convicted. Mackey received two wounds. One may have been caused by Ragan. It is certain that the other was not. No post mortem examination was held to determine which would was fatal. In the absence of evidence on this point, there was always room for doubt.

Maggie NEWMAN granted divorce (1905)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 50 (March 1905 - February 1906), in June 1905 Maggie M. Newman was granted a divorce from Clinton V.G. Newman (case #7568). She was to receive $1,300 in alimony and was also awarded custody of their children - Emma Newman, Edith Newman, Luther Newman, Albert Newman and Lillie Newman. Clinton was to pay her $300 a year in child support, to be paid for 10 years in a row.

Edgar HAYS commits suicide in Lafayette (1908)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, March 19, 1908 - page 1, column 5

SHOOTS HIMSELF
Former Danville Boy Ends Life Saturday at Lafayette
Edgar Hays, son of John T. Hays, southwest of Danville, fatally shot himself Saturday at Lafayette. The body was brought to his father's home Sunday and was laid to rest in the East Cemetery Monday afternoon.

Edgar Hays was 42 years of age and grew to manhood in this community. He was of peculiar disposition and had before attempted to kill himself. For some years he was a saloon keeper in Indianapolis, his place being known as the "Mystery," he keeping a small menagerie.

He was a carpenter and had been recently building a house for a Lafayette man. The house was nearing completion and he had been told by the owner that on account of his heavy drinking he would have to leave the job. Saturday morning the owner and his wife went to the house. As they approached, they heard a shot. Going upstairs they found him fatally wounded.

Mr. Hays' wife died some years ago leaving a daughter, now Mrs. Hadley. He talked of another wife but his intimate friends claim never to have seen her.

Rosa ROGERS granted divorce (1905)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 50 (March 1905 - February 1906), in October 1905 Rosa Rogers was granted a divorce from Willis A. Rogers (case #7607). She was also awarded custody of their child, Clarence Rogers, and Willis was to give her $2 a week in child support.

Infant Mary PAGE burns to death (1908)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 23, 1908 - page 1, column 5

FATALLY BURNED
Mary, daughter of Wallace and Annie Page, was fatally burned last week. While Mrs. Page was busy at her house work Wednesday the child was playing around the house with a little broom. It is thought her clothes caught fire from the stove and when her mother reached her upon hearing her cries, she was too late to be of help. The little one was almost two years old. She was born near North Salem, Jan. 20, 1906. After funeral services at the home Friday morning the little body was laid away, the services being conducted by E.C. Bybee and J. Rice. The bereaved family have the sympathy of all while they realize that although she is missed in the home she is a bright light on the other shore.

Hendricks County divorce index 1901-1906 added

An index to divorce cases in Hendricks County from 1901 to 1906 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index was compiled from entries in the order books of the Hendricks County Circuit Court (1901-1906).

Fred HERBSTER charged with fathering illegitimate child (1901)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, April 25, 1901 - page 8, column 3

IN JAIL
Fred Herbster, formerly of Pittsboro, was brought out from Indianapolis Saturday where he has been employed at the Parry Buggy works, and lodged in jail on [a] charge of bastardy.

Amanda TROTTER granted divorce (1874)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 14 (February 1874 - December 1874), in December 1874 Amanda Trotter was granted a divorce from Fayette Trotter (case #1070). She was also given custody of their children - Lemman Trotter and Lucy Trotter.

Ephram PACE and Lillie CARBAUGH jailed for living in sin (1908)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, December 10, 1908 - page 4, column 2

IN JAIL
Ephram Pace and Lillie Carbaugh are in jail laying out $50 fines on account of their plea of guilty to living together as man and wife. They have been living on Gilbert McClain's farm. It is claimed they are from Blackford County and that he has a wife and eight children and she a husband and two children.

Eliza BENNETT granted divorce (1874)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 14 (February 1874 - December 1874), in November 1874 Eliza D. Bennett was granted a divorce from Jonathan A. Bennett (case #1113). She was also given custody of their minor child and $100 in alimony.

Former Hendricks County Commissioner William LEWIS judged insane (1901)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, April 25, 1901 - page 1, column 5:

ADJUDGED INSANE
William Lewis, former commissioner, was adjudged insane Monday and has been taken to the asylum. He had been in a sanitarium at Indianapolis last week and came home Saturday in bad condition. Saturday night and Sunday he was violent, exhibiting homicidal tendencies. This is a most sad ending of Mr. Lewis's condition which has been a serious matter for some months. A few weeks ago he was in this office and seemed in fair health and expressed his confidence that he would soon be himself.

Elvira HENDERSON granted divorce (1874)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 14 (February 1874 - December 1874), in November 1874 Elvira M. Henderson was granted a divorce from Lindsey M. Henderson (case #1134). She was also given custody of their daughter Alma Henderson.

Inmates released from Hendricks County Jail (1906)

From a record book of inmates at Hendricks County Jail (1871-1908), which has been digitized and is available on the Archives section of the Hendricks County government website:

Isaac Mendenhall, Hendricks County Sheriff, kept a list of inmates that were discharged from the county jail from January 1, 1906 to December 31, 1906:

Released for good behavior: Cecil Brackett, Jacob Caylor, Harry Parker, Ducky Rankin, Lewis Riggs

Sent to Indiana State Prison at Michigan City: William Allee, Lewis H. Keefawer, James Ross

Sent to Indiana State Reformatory at Jeffersonville: George Dempsey, Ora Haibe, Walter Shelley

Sent to Indiana Boys School at Plainfield: Carl R. Runion, Roy Runion

Sent to Central State Hospital for the Insane at Indianapolis: Clarence Hornaday, Frank Mitchell, Andrew W. Rodgers

Maggie WILSON paralyzed at a party (1908)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, March 19, 1908 - page 1, column 3:

UNFORTUNATE ACCIDENT
Miss Maggie Wilson, a young lady living north of Rainstown, is suffering from a peculiarly unfortunate accident. She was at a party a few evenings ago and with other ladies was seated on the floor. Behind her was a lady in a chair. Someone playfully tilted the chair and the lady on it fell upon Miss Wilson's shoulders and the back of her neck. Her head was forced down upon her beast and the spinal cord ruptured. As a result she is totally blind and a part of each day is unconscious. Her recovery is doubtful.

Pearl (JORDAN) DENNEY Files For Divorce (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 14, 1915 - page 1, column 3:

MRS. DENNEY ASKS DIVORCE
Pearl Denney Alleges That Life is Unbearable with Wm. Denney and Wants Separation

The expected divorce suit of Pearl Denney against William T. Denney has been filed in the Circuit Court. The couple separated about the first of December and it has been currently talked since that time that the couple would not be able to patch up their differences and that a divorce suit would be filed. Mrs. Denney engaged the Harvey law firm to take the steps necessary to obtain a divorce decree.

The couple married on May 9, 1898. Plaintiff alleges that the defendant formed the habit of cursing her, and that he made fun of her religion. He frequently derided her, she says, because she sometimes spoke at church. She further alleges that her husband is addicted to liquor. He would bring it to the table and use it regardless of the fact that company might be present. She says she gently remonstrated, but that he told her he would use liquor when and where he pleased.

Plaintiff further alleges that the defendant was guilty of acts other than those set out which caused their married life to be an utter impossibility. She says that they parted several times and that she returned upon his promise to treat her better.

Besides a divorce the plaintiff wishes her name restored to Pearl Jordan.

Rioting Case (1847)

Jacob Thorp, Seth Guinn, Noah Fitemaster, Aquilla Jordan, Benjamin Snodgrass, James Care, John Litzman, Milton Guinn, Robert Toles and Richard Arnold were charged with rioting on 1 October 1846, specifically with tearing down the chimney and moving a certain house on the land of Elizabeth Walker. William P. Walker and John Liztman were the witnesses to the grand jury, which convened in March 1847.

Dates of death from Hendricks County estate cases 1915-1918 added

An index to the dates of death from estate cases listed in the Hendricks County probate docket and fee books for the years 1915 through 1918 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site.

ABOUT THESE RECORDS: A docket and fee book contains a brief summary of a probate case, with notations of when the case was opened and closed as well as references to other record books. For more information on an estate case, you should consult probate order books and the probate packet itself (aka "loose papers").

The Hendricks County Government's Archive has digital files of the probate docket and fee books for the years 1912-1945.

Pittsboro Sun Newspaper (1893)

Recently found in Hendricks County probate records was this letterhead from the Pittsboro Sun, a newspaper published in Pittsboro, Indiana. The letterhead (dated 1893) lists Earle C. Weaver as being the publisher.

PHOTO: Unknown BAILEY (1890)

The woman in this photo is unknown - the back of the photo says "Grandma Bailey". It was taken by a Danville photographer about 1890.

Thanks to Janet Warren Tretter (DnJTretter@aol.com) for sharing this photo.

PHOTO: John W. Figg and Family near Amo (1908)

This photo is of John W. Figg and family at his home near Amo around 1908. John W. Figg (holding ??) is on the left; John's half-brother Ed Warren is in the center; Osie Figg (holding Lucille Warren) is on the right. The boy seated on the bottom-most step is Charles Warren; the 2 boys sitting on the top step are unknown - they may be related to the Figgs.

John W. Figg was a schoolteacher and later become superintendent of the Plainfield schools. He died in 1927. This house's address today is 4489 West County Road 300 South, Danville.

Thanks to Janet Warren Tretter (DnJTretter@aol.com) for sharing this photo.

Magdaline HICKS of Stilesville Elopes In Illinois (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 28, 1915 - page 1, column 2:

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ELOPE
Miss Magdaline Hicks, 18, a senior in the Stilesville high school, eloped to Illinois with Gailord Foster, 18, a high school pupil of Cloverdale. The bride is the daughter of John E. Hicks, cashier of the bank at Stilesville. She is a niece of Charles Walls of this place. The elopement took place Saturday.

Miss Hicks told her parents that she was going to Clayton to consult a dentist and said she would spend Sunday with the family of Tom Broadstreet south of Clayton. Instead, she caught a car for Greencastle and joined Foster. After going to Illinois and becoming man and wife, the couple returned to Cloverdale, from which place the bride telephoned the news to her parents. The next day the groom resumed his studies in the Cloverdale high school. The couple had been keeping company for some time. They eloped because they thought their parents would object to their marriage on account of their age.

Obituary of Civil War Veteran Henry C. MOORE (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, February 4, 1915 - page 1, column 3:

HENRY C. MOORE DEAD
Henry C. Moore, 74, a former resident of this county, died at the Soldiers' Home at Danville, Ills., Saturday. He was an uncle of A.C. Underwood of this place. Mr. Underwood and his father, J.T. Underwood, attended the funeral, which was held Monday at Danville, Ills. Deceased lived for many years near Pittsboro and he is well known in that part of the county. He had been at the Soldiers' Home for about 15 years. He was an old soldier, having served with Henry Kirk and George W. Scearce of this place in Co. A of the 51st Ind. Henry Kirk was at Danville last week to visit the sick man. He was held in high regard by his old comrades.

Russell SMITH and Mary BALDWIN Guilty of Living in Sin (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, March 4, 1915 - page 1, column 2:

SIX MONTHS IN JAIL
Lincoln Township Couple Get Heavy Sentence For Failing to Comply With Proprieties

Russell Smith and Mrs. Mary E. Baldwin of Lincoln Township were sentenced to serve six months in the county jail by Judge Brill yesterday morning when they entered a plea of guilty to a statutory charge. In addition to the jail sentence Smith was fined $50 and costs, which will add about two months to his sentence as the fine is not likely to be paid. After rendering judgment the Court suspended the sentence imposed on the woman pending her good behavior.

The couple had been living as man and wife for more than a year. For several months they have been residing on the Holloway farm east of Brownsburg. Neighbors did not know the relations of the couple until after the arrest. Then they said it was awful. Judge Brill delivered a sharp lecture to the defendants. Smith said he did know he was violating the law until he was arrested. He gave his age as 24. The woman was 20 years old. She is married and her husband, Howard Baldwin, lives in Indianapolis. They were married about two years ago. The husband recently brought suit for divorce and that action brought about the arrest of the couple.

Smith has been in court here before. Some time ago he was arrested for beating a board bill, for which he paid a fine.

Obituary of Pearl (RAWLINGS) WEDDLE (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, March 4, 1915 - page 1, column 6:

DEATH OF PEARL WEDDLE
Mrs. Pearl Weddle, age 35, wife of Otha W. Weddle of near North Salem, died at an Indianapolis hospital, Friday afternoon, following an operation. Her death, however, was due to pneumonia. She underwent an operation on Monday of last week, it being the third time she had submitted to the surgeon's knife. The funeral was held from the Montclair church, Monday, being conducted by Rev. Clay Trusty of Indianapolis. Burial was at North Salem. Besides the husband, two sons survive. Deceased was a sister-in-law of Mrs. S.R. Stewart of this place. She was a daughter of Mose Rawlings. A sister, Mrs. Henry Leach of San Antonio, Tex., was at the funeral.

Amanda BRYANT of Washington Township Sues James GIPSON For Slander (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 14, 1915 - page 1, column 6:

SLANDER SUIT
Amanda Bryant is asking a jury to tax James Gipson $5,000 for remarks he is alleged to have made about her. The parties to the suit, which began yesterday afternoon, are from Washington Township. Amanda Bryant and her husband lived on the Gipson farm. She is attempting to show that her reputation suffered from stories which were circulated as to her character by Gipson. She alleges that he told her she was not fit to live with her husband and intimated that her character was bad. The case is a spicy one and there is a full attendance of spectators.

Frankie GENTRY Secretly Marries in Kentucky (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, March 25, 1915 - page 1, column 2:

SECRETLY MARRIED
Frankie Gentry Slipped Away to Kentucky Last Week and Became Wife of Indianapolis Man

Miss Frankie Gentry, daughter of Sheriff J.W. Gentry, was married on Tuesday afternoon of last week to R.E. Trimble of Indianapolis. The wedding took place at Henderson, Ky. It was the intention of the young couple to keep the event a secret for a time, but fate was against them. Soon after the marriage was solemnized the young couple met an acquaintance who guessed the truth and then they wanted to be the first to tell of their new happiness. Thus the secret was not kept.

The wedding was the outcome of a friendship formed several years ago when the young couple met at the home of a friend in Indianapolis.

The groom resides at 2640 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis. He is connected with the Western Oil Refining Co., and has a traveling position. The young couple have not completed their plans for the future. The bride has been called home by the illness of her mother, who is suffering from a slight attack of pneumonia. She will remain here until her mother is fully recovered.

Index to Hendricks County 1870 mortality schedule added

An index of the 1870 mortality schedule for Hendricks County has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The 1870 mortality schedule was a supplemental schedule to the 1870 federal census, and it recorded information about those who had died between 1 June 1869 and 31 May 1870.

Fred B. ENSMINGER Marries in Kentucky (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, April 15, 1915 - page 1, column 1:

ENSMINGER-FITCH
Fred D. Ensminger, son of Mr. and Mrs. S.B. Ensminger of this place, and Miss Nellie Clyde Fitch, were married in the Presbyterian church at Dayton, Ky., Monday. The groom is a young attorney and is now connected with the Prest-O-Lite Co. of Indianapolis. The bride is a charming young lady who is well known here. She is a musician of note and is a granddaughter of former Congressman E.B. Fitch of Kentucky. The young couple will reside in Indianapolis.

Students at Jordan School, Center Township (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 28, 1915 - page 1, column 3:

REPORT OF JORDAN SCHOOL
In spite of the inclement weather last week, only three pupils out of twenty were out of school. One of these was a patient in Dr. Armstrong's hospital, and the two others were out on account of sickness.

Grades in school follow:
First Year - Gordon Gibbs
Second Year - Eunice Thompson, Grace Cox
Third Year - Joe Gibbs, Lester Crow
Fourth Year - Henry Gibbs, James Gorrell, Luther Crow
Fifth Year - Gladys Cox, Inez Riggan, Irene Gorrell, Maurice Wood
Sixth Year - Minnie Baugh, Corda Crow, Frank Thompson, Kenneth Jones, Royland Bryant
Seventh and Eighth Grades - Esta Hunt, Dewey Brewer, Hattie McClain

Emma McHAFFIE of Stilesville Files For Divorce (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 7, 1915 - page 1, column 4:

WANTS DIVORCE
Mrs. Emma C. McHaffie, Wife of Prominent Stilesville Man, Seeks Separation For Infidelity

Mrs. Emma C. McHaffie brought suit in the local court yesterday for a divorce from her husband, George W. McHaffie. The defendant is the oldest son of the late Melvin McHaffie, and is one of the best known farmers in Franklin Township. In her complaint Mrs. McHaffie charges infidelity.

She sets out that they were married June 13, 1877, and separated Dec. 28, 1914. She avers that in 1901 her husband was guilty of wrongful acts with one Helen Staley. On July 20, 1914, she avers, she went to Louisville, Ky., to visit her married daughter. While on that trip, her husband kept Ethel Ollinger, or Ethel "Mack" in their home for two days and two nights. She says she left him as soon as she learned of that act.

She sets out that her husband is worth about $40,000, and she asks alimony in the sum of $20,000. Her suit was filed by Allee, James & Allee of Greencastle.

McHaffie is well known throughout southern Hendricks and Putnam county. A few years ago he was completely paralyzed, and it is said that he is the only man known to medical science who completely recovered from such an attack.

Cora WARD of Liberty Township Seeks Divorce (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, March 11, 1915 - page 1, column 6:

WANTS DIVORCE
Alleges Husband is Morose, Prefers Chair to Bed - and Oft-Repeated Threats of Suicide, Fail of Relief

After a test of less than a year Mrs. Cora Ward, wife of Allen E. Ward, a farmer in south Liberty [Township], is ready to acknowledge marriage is a failure. She brought suit for divorce from her husband in the local court Tuesday.

She states they were married February 28, 1914, and separated February 10, 1915.

She alleges her husband is sullen and morose, going for days without speaking unless compelled to. She sets out that frequently he displayed a disagreeable attitude by sitting up in a chair all night rather than go to bed. The complaint sets out that he frequently threatened to commit suicide and that on more than one occasion he slipped a pistol in his pocket and went to the barn with the avowed intention of ending things. At the present time, however, conditions are such that he is figuring in court as an individual and not as an estate.

Another cause for grievance was that he refused to provide a place for his family to live. He gave as an excuse, Plaintiff says, that if he did he would lose the place his mother promised him at her death.

The couple have one child, five months old, and the mother is asking for its custody.

Obituary of Richard CAMPBELL (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, February 18, 1915 - page 1, column 5:

DEATH OF "DICK" CAMPBELL
Richard Campbell, a prominent retired farmer of Danville, died at Chapel Hill, N. Car., Sunday night, after a short illness with pneumonia. He went to that place a few weeks ago with the expectation of spending the winter. He was not feeling well when he left, but it was thought that the change would be beneficial. Relatives were summoned to his side on Wednesday of last week, and the news of his death came Monday morning. He was a man who stood high in the community, and the news of his death came as a distinct shock. He was about 63 years old. A daughter, Mrs. Edgar Stephenson, survives, and a brother, Sam Stephenson, resides at Hadley. The body was brought home for burial, arriving here at 7:55 this morning. Deceased was born in North Carolina and he was visiting relatives in that state when he was taken fatally ill. The funeral will be held from the Baptist church at 2:00 Friday afternoon.

John WEST obituary (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, February 4, 1915 - page 8, column 4:

JOHN WEST DIES SUDDENLY
John West, a prominent farmer living north of Pecksburg, dropped dead Friday morning. His death was due to heart trouble. Mr. West was in a hog house when the fatal attack came on. He had been subject to the trouble for some time. The funeral was held from the home Sunday morning and burial was at Stilesville.

The widow and an adopted daughter survive. Deceased was a brother of Milo West of Greencastle, George West of this county, and Mrs. John Baron and Mrs. George Harvey of Clayton.

Elizabeth MARLEY Granted Divorce (1871)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 13 (May 1873 - February 1874), in December 1871 in the Marion County Circuit Court, Elizabeth J. Marley's petition for divorce from Henry A. Marley (case #6656) was granted. Custody of the child, Albe Roy Marley, was granted to Elizabeth until the child was 12 years old, and she was awarded alimony in the amount of $2,265, which included $1,265 of the separate property that was in her possession at the time of the marriage. Henry was also to pay certain installments for the support and education of the child.

NOTE: This court order from Marion County appeared in the Hendricks County records in August 1873.

Urban POPE of Plainfield Sued For Paternity (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, February 11, 1915 - page 1, column 4:

PATERNITY SUIT
Urban Pope of Plainfield has been bound over to the circuit court under $200 bond to answer to a paternity suit brought by Alice Brewer, 16 years old, of Plainfield. Defendant was released on bond furnished by Cynthia Day. Plaintiff avers that she was frequently waylaid by defendant and Frosty Tucker and Earl McKnight, Plainfield boys, and made their victim.

[NOTE: Urban N. Pope married Clara M. Tucker on June 1, 1915, according to Hendricks County marriage records]

Eleanor (WISE) NELSON Granted Divorce (1873)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 13 (May 1873 - February 1874), in September 1873 Eleanor Nelson's petition for a divorce from Joseph Nelson (case #661) was granted. The divorce decree banned her from getting married again for a period of 2 years, gave her custody of the child, Emmazilla Nelson, and restored her maiden name, Eleanor Wise.

Birth of Noble H. HUGHES (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 21, 1915 - page 1, column 5:

HIS NAME'S NOBLE H.
A strange visitor came into the home of Mr. and Mrs. C.V. Hughes near Chrismas, Ills., on the morning of Jan. 16th. Mrs. Hughes was formerly Miss Pearl Noble of Danville. No one knew just why the strange came nor for what reason he paid them a nocturnal visit. Evidently he was not a burglar, for he did not seem disposed to take any of the valuables from the home. Besides, he made no effort to escape when discovered by members of the household. In fact, all the members of the family immediately became so attached to him that they decided to keep him. Not knowing how to address him, it was decided to christen him Master Noble H. Hughes. The mother and father are very proud of their first-born son.

Fred STEVENS obituary (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 14, 1915 - page 1, column 6:

DEATH OF FRED STEVENS
Fred Stevens, 13 years old, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Stevens, died Friday night after a short illness with appendicitis. The boy had been ill for about a week, but he apparently grew better and the grave nature of his affliction was not realized until a short time before his death. The appendix ruptured before there was an opportunity to resort to an operation. The funeral was held from the Christian church Sunday morning, being conducted by Rev. Anderson. Burial was at North Salem. The boy was a favorite among his playmates and his untimely death caused much sadness. There were many beautiful floral offerings at the funeral to express the sympathy of the community to the bereaved family.

Edgar BOYD Adopted By Preston BROWN (1873)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Civil Order Book Volume 13 (May 1873 - February 1874), in May 1873 Preston Brown filed a petition to adopt Edgar Boyd, who would be 18 years old as of 14 May 1874 and who had no parents living. Brown's petition was granted, and Edgar's name was changed to Edgar B. Brown.

Keziah KENWORTHY Has Illegitimate Child (1873)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Civil Order Book Volume 13 (May 1873 - February 1874), Keziah Kenworthy filed a bastardy suit against Marion Townsend (case #567). In September 1873, Townsend was found guilty of being the father of the bastard child that was born to Kenworthy on 1 January 1873. He was ordered to pay Kenworthy $500 for the maintenance of the child, payable in annual installments of $100.

Dates of death from Hendricks County estate cases 1918-1921 added

An index to the dates of death from estate cases listed in the Hendricks County probate docket and fee books for the years 1918 through 1921 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site.

ABOUT THESE RECORDS: A docket and fee book contains a brief summary of a probate case, with notations of when the case was opened and closed as well as references to other record books. For more information on an estate case, you should consult probate order books and the probate packet itself (aka "loose papers").

The Hendricks County Government's Archive has digital files of the probate docket and fee books for the years 1912-1945.

Adkins CLARK obituary (1915)

From the Danville Gazette (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, January 7, 1915 - page 2, column 2:

ADKINS CLARK DEAD
Adkins Clark, 91 years old, died at the County Home Monday. He had been an inmate of the institution for about four years. His death was due to age. A son, Silas Clark, of Amo, took charge of the body and the remains were taken to that place for burial, Tuesday.

Christian Church ministers in Hendricks County (1918)

A listing of ministers of various Christian churches in Hendricks County in 1918:

(from Seventy-seventh annual convention Churches of Christ of Indiana Danville, Indiana May 15th to 18th, 1918)

Brownsburg Christian Church - W.H. Newlin
Clayton Christian Church - W.R. Jinett
Coatesville Christian Church - C.T. Stainby
Danville Christian Church - Charles Otis Lee
Hazelwood Christian Church - A.W. Crabb
Lizton Christian Church - St. John Halstead
Maplewood Christian Church - M.V. Grisso
Montclair Christian Church - H.O. Bratton
New Winchester Christian Church - E.B. Scofield
North Salem Christian Church - Lee Tinsley
Pittsboro Christian Church - Frank C. Huston
Plainfield Christian Church - Hugh Shields
Stilesville Christian Church - M.V. Grisso

Election results for town of Coatesville (1872)

According to an entry in Hendricks County Circuit Court Book volume 11 (which covers November 1869 to May 1871), on Monday, May 6, 1872, the town of Coatesville held its election. The following residents were elected:

Town Council, 1st Ward - J.W. McCarty
Town Council, 2nd Ward - E.R. Ellis
Town Council, 3rd Ward - C.W. Elrod
Town Clerk - J.T. Tinder
Town Treasurer - Joseph Williams
Town Assessor - John Roberts
Town Marshal - William Newkirk

Index to 1880 Hendricks County mortality schedule added

An index of the 1880 mortality schedule for Hendricks County has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The 1880 mortality schedule was a supplemental schedule to the 1880 federal census, and it recorded information about those who had died between 1 June 1879 and 31 May 1880.

Election results for town of Brownsburg (1872)

According to an entry in Hendricks County Circuit Court Book volume 12 (which covers November 1871 to May 1873), on Monday, May 6, 1872, the town of Brownsburg held its election. The following residents were elected:

Town Trustee, 1st Ward - A.H. Gladden (defeated T.L. Canary)
Town Trustee, 2nd Ward - E.F. South (defeated John Lingerman)
Town Trustee, 3rd Ward - Robert F. Sugart (defeated A.J. Duncan)
Town Marshal - David D. Boyd (defeated Robert V. Franklin and Billy Gregg)
Town Clerk - Stephen H. Thomas
Town Treasurer - David D. Boyd (defeated Robert V. Franklin and John Harris)
Town Assessor - Stephen H. Thomas (defeated Robert Sugart)

Livingston HOWLAND elected Hendricks Circuit Court Judge (1872)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Civil Order Book Volume 12 (November 1871 - May 1873), in November 1872 Livingston Howland was elected as circuit court judge for the 5th judicial circuit of Indiana, which covered Hendricks County and Marion County. His term was for 6 years beginning from 26 October 1872. His letter of commission was signed by Governor Conrad Baker.

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (November 1894)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of 26 November 1894 [in vacation of the May 1894 term of court]:
--Solomon Mitchell estate - Mary E. Mitchell appointed administrator
--Nathan J. Scearce estate - Laura B. Scearce appointed administrator
--Ellsworth Brewer estate - Elijah Brewer appointed administrator
--Pearl Cates guardianship (minor) - Job Rogers appointed guardian
--heirs of John W. Lee guardianship (minor) - J.W. Ellis appointed guardian
--Harry L. Gladden guardianship (minor) - Charles M. Gladden appointed guardian

Dicey Jane RAY delivers illegitimate child (1873)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Civil Order Book Volume 12 (November 1871 - May 1873), Dicey Jane Ray filed a bastardy suit against John W. Holloway. In May 1875, Ray filed to dismiss the case, stipulating that suitable provisions had been made by Holloway for the support of her bastard child, and the case was dismissed.

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (March 1894)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of 5 March 1894 [in vacation of the January 1894 term of court]:
--Landrum Leak estate - Henry C. Ulen appointed administrator (objections raised as to the appointment)
--Ira Weddle estate - Elza S. Weddle appointed administrator
--Zimri W. Cox estate - Henry A. Record appointed administrator
--John C. Kochler estate - R.T. Hollowell appointed administrator
--George Hendren, Alice Hendren, Morris Hendren, Tilferd Hendren, Isaac Hendren & Nannie Hendren guardianship (minor) - James W. Hamrick appointed guardian

Mary K. DETRICK delivers illegitimate child (1871)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Civil Order Book Volume 12 (November 1871 - May 1873), Mary K. Detrick filed a bastardy suit against Asa Hayworth for the birth of her illegitimate child. In July 1871, Mary K. Detrick (and Philip K. Detrick) agreed to dismiss the suit in exchange for Hayworth writing a promissory note for $300 payable in 12 months drawing 10% interest, with the interest due in 4 months. Asa Hayworth and James Hayworth were to be jointly responsible for paying the note.

Morgan County cemeteries index online

The Morgan County Public Library in Martinsville has added a Morgan County cemeteries index to its website. The index is searchable and consists mostly of burials that occurred before 1970. This is also an important resource tool if you have Hendricks County ancestors - some Hendricks County residents, particularly if they lived in the southern half of the county, are buried in Morgan County.

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (September 1893)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of 4 September 1893 [in vacation of the May 1893 term of court]:
--Catharine Woods estate - N.E. Woods appointed administrator
--Nancy Cross estate - W.H. Nichols appointed administrator
--William Ray estate - Anna Ray appointed administrator
--Rachel Swindler estate - L.A. Barnett appointed administrator
--Mary E. Wingate estate - W.R. McClelland appointed administrator
--Martin Hogan estate - James Hogan appointed administrator
--Charles W. Hamrick estate - John C. Walker appointed administrator (objections filed to the appointment)
--Sarah Wilson estate - Abraham Douglass appointed administrator
--Clarence Taylor guardianship (minor) - Henry H. Wiseheart appointed guardian
--Alfred Tincher guardianship (minor) - Frank D. Christie appointed guardian
--Emaline Hollingsworth & Mary Hollingsworth guardianship (minor) - Ora F. Martin appointed guardian
--Henry A. Elmore, Ora Elmore & Urban Elmore guardianship (minor) - Ora F. Martin appointed guardian

War of 1812 veterans who applied for military pensions (1871)

from the Hendricks County Union (Danville, Indiana) - issue of May 25, 1871 - page 3, column 4:

PENSIONERS FOR 1812
The following is a list of applicants for pensions under the recent act of Congress, made through S.T. Hadley:

Lewis Kesler age 79
Z.B. Long age 75
George Coble age 76
Greenberry Baker age 93
Shadrick Worrell age 72
James Borders age 80
William Christie age 84
Abraham Barrow age 84
John Miller age 78
Thomas Hall age 87
Austin H. Smith age 91
Mrs. Agnes Smith age 91

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (May 1893)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of 1 May 1893 [in vacation of the March 1893 term of court]:
--Squire N. Smith estate - Albert F. Smith appointed administrator
--Robert Walker estate - Shilds M. McCaslin appointed administrator
--Anna Reynolds estate - O.H. Barnill appointed administrator
--Sidney Franklin estate - Thomas E. Hamrick appointed administrator
--Maggie Hagee (et al) guardianship (minor) - William J. Morgan appointed guardian
--Alva Smith (et al) guardianship (minor) - Albert F. Smith appointed guardian

Adoption of Vernie May HEDGE (1895)

According to Hendricks County probate records, on 10 January 1895 Mattison Sparger and Maggie M. Sparger submitted a petition to adopt Vernie May Hedge, who was born 1 February 1891, the daughter of Florence A. Hedge. The petition noted that the couple were childless and included an affidavit from Florence A. Hedge. In consenting to the adoption, Florence A. Hedge admitted that she had never been married and that Vernie May Hedge was illegitimate.

Birth notices from Brownsburg Record 1937-1943 added

An index of the birth notices that were published in the Brownsburg Record (a weekly newspaper) from January 1937 through July 1943 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. This index was compiled by the Indiana Room of the Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library.

Election results for town of Stilesville (1871)

According to an entry in Hendricks County Circuit Court Book volume 11 (which covers November 1869 to May 1871), on Monday, May 1, 1871, the town of Stilesville held its election. The following residents were elected:

Town Trustee, 1st Ward - John W. Gentry
Town Trustee, 2nd Ward - William P. Robards
Town Trustee, 3rd Ward - J.W. Matlock
Town Clerk - A.L. Masters
Town Treasurer - A.L. Masters
Town Marshal - Jesse Richardson
Town Assessor - Jesse Richardson

Election results for town of Brownsburg (1871)

According to an entry in Hendricks County Circuit Court Book volume 11 (which covers November 1869 to May 1871), on Monday, May 1, 1871, the town of Brownsburg held its election. The following residents were elected:

Town Trustee, 1st Ward - James T. Davison (defeated T.A. Graham and J.R. Cope)
Town Trustee, 2nd Ward - John T. Burns
Town Trustee, 3rd Ward - B. Mendenhall (defeated L.S. Hunter)
Town Clerk - Charles R. Dinwiddie (defeated M.G. Rice)
Town Marshal, Town Treasurer & Town Assessor - Benjamin South

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (September 1892)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of 5 September 1892 [in vacation of the May 1892 term of court]:
--Dandridge Tucker estate - Charles F. Martin appointed administrator
--George W. McCloud estate - Isaac Ratliff appointed administrator
--James N. Symons estate - A.L. Symons appointed administrator
--Lucretia Mitchell estate - James M. Wills appointed administrator
--Alcy C. Scott, Zella A. Scott & Lettie E. Scott guardianship (minor) - John W.M. Scott appointed guardian
--Della Hopwood guardianship (minor) - Ora F. Martin appointed guardian
--Cleo L. Hunt guardianship (minor) - Julia A. Hunt appointed guardian
--Jennie V. Ragan estate - John S. Ragan appointed executor
--William Airy estate - Ashley Johnson appointed executor
--Henry Rogers estate - M.C. Rogers appointed executor

Election results for town of Danville (1871)

According to an entry in Hendricks County Circuit Court Book volume 11 (which covers November 1869 to May 1871), on Monday, May 1, 1871, the town of Danville held its election. The following residents were elected:

Town Trustee, 1st Ward - Aaron Hart (defeated G.C. Waterous and J.R. Armstrong)
Town Trustee, 2nd Ward - William H. Blake (defeated William E. Howland)
Town Trustee, 3rd Ward - William P. Ayers (defeated William H. Cash and James Christie)
Town Trustee, 4th Ward - Isaac H. Pierson (defeated Charles R. Rose)
Town Trustee, 5th Ward - James Nichols (defeated J.H. Davis and S.R. Craddick)
Town Clerk - John S. Straughan (defeated Joseph Mathers and Joshua G. Adams)
Town Treasurer - Henry Howell (defeated James Stapp and S.A. Verbrike)
Town Marshal - John J. Ogden (defeated Robert Dempsey)

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (May 1892)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of 2 May 1892 [in vacation of the March 1892 term of court]:
--Nathan Hadley estate - David Hadley appointed administrator
--Isabella Herring estate - will probated

Election results for town of Brownsburg (1870)

According to an entry in Hendricks County Circuit Court Book volume 11 (which covers November 1869 to May 1871), on November 5, 1870, the town of Brownsburg held its election. The following residents were elected:

Town Trustee, 1st District - George W. Nash
Town Trustee, 2nd District - Christopher Trucksess
Town Trustee, 3rd District - Lewis S. Hunter
Town Clerk - Henry T. Green
Town Marshal - James Helton
Town Treasurer - Robert A. Watts
Town Assessor - Robert A. Watts

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (March 1892)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases in vacation of the March 1892 term of court:
--Melvina Kohl estate - Isaac A. Johnson appointed administrator
--Dayton Hocket estate - Joel Newlin appointed administrator
--John Fitch estate - Alfred Fitch appointed administrator
--Almond Smoot estate - James H. Smoot appointed administrator
--Jehu Hadley estate - Henry Hadley appointed administrator
--Calvin Lowder estate - N.H. Arbuckle appointed administrator
--Thomas Evans estate - Martha C.G. Evans appointed administrator
--Charlotte Cassity estate - George W. Cassity appointed administrator
--William I. Patterson estate - Luther W. Job appointed administrator
--Russell Hodge estate - Q. Broadstreet appointed administrator
--Jacob Chandler estate - John Chandler appointed administrator
--Charles G. Wilson guardianship - William H. Figg appointed guardian
--Sarah Buchanan guardianship (insane person) - L.A. Barnett appointed guardian
--Sylvia Free & Charley Free guardianship - F.M. Patterson appointed guardian
--Myrtle Christie guardianship - L.M. Christie appointed guardian

Election results for town of Stilesville (1870)

According to an entry in Hendricks County Circuit Court Book volume 11 (which covers November 1869 to May 1871), on Friday, July 22, 1870, the town of Stilesville held its election at the office of Dr. I.N. Green. The following residents were elected:

Town Trustee, 1st District - John W. Gentry
Town Trustee, 2nd District - William P. Robards
Town Trustee, 3rd District - James W. Matlock
Town Clerk - Alexander L. Masters
Town Treasurer - Alexander L. Masters
Town Assessor - Jesse Richardson
Town Marshal - Jesse Richardson

Caroline LARRANCE delivers illegitimate child (1871)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Civil Order Book Volume 11 (November 1869 - May 1871), Caroline E. Larrance filed a complaint of bastardy against Alvah W. Fletcher. In March 1871, Caroline E. Larrance filed to dismiss the case, stipulating that suitable provisions had been made by Fletcher for the support of her bastard child, and the case was dismissed.

Flora MERRITT delivers illegitimate child (1898)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Civil Order Book Volume 41 (March 1897 - February 1898), Flora M. Merritt (who was under the age of 21) filed a complaint of bastardy against William E. Euliss (case #6488). In February 1898, the 2 parties stipulated that suitable provisions had been made by Euliss for the support of her bastard child, and the case was dismissed.

Adoption of Virginia DETMER (1914)

According to an entry in a Hendricks County Probate Docket & Fee Book covering the years 1912 to 1915, in November 1914 the court heard a petition regarding the adoption of Virginia Detmer.

Harlan HADLEY sued for seduction (1869)

According to an entry in Hendricks County Circuit Court Book volume 11 (which covers November 1869 to May 1871), in November 1869 the court heard the petition of Sarah Ann Amick, who was suing Harlan Hadley for seduction. A jury deliberated but failed to reach a verdict. Then in April 1870, the court approved Amick's request to transfer the case to Marion County Circuit Court.

Dates of death from Hendricks County estate cases 1921-1924 added

An index to the dates of death from estate cases listed in the Hendricks County probate docket and fee books for the years 1921 through 1924 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site.

ABOUT THESE RECORDS: A docket and fee book contains a brief summary of a probate case, with notations of when the case was opened and closed as well as references to other record books. For more information on an estate case, you should consult probate order books and the probate packet itself (aka "loose papers").

The Hendricks County Government's Archive has digital files of the probate docket and fee books for the years 1912-1930.

Adoption of Edith Edna CAMPBELL (1914)

According to an entry in a Hendricks County Probate Docket & Fee Book covering the years 1912 to 1915, in May 1914 the court heard a petition regarding the adoption of Edith Edna Campbell by John Wesley Bowman, Jr.

Adoption of Carrie B. TRESTER (1914)

According to an entry in a Hendricks County Probate Docket & Fee Book covering the years 1912 to 1915, in February 1914 the court heard a petition regarding the adoption of Carrie B. Trester by John and Ada B. West.

Adoption of Norma Catherine STEWART (1914)

According to an entry in a Hendricks County Probate Docket & Fee Book covering the years 1912 to 1915, in June 1914 the court heard a petition regarding the adoption of Norma Catherine Stewart by Alfred A. and Almira Kivett.

Adoption of Walter William CUTSINGER (1912)

According to an entry in a Hendricks County Probate Docket & Fee Book covering the years 1912 to 1915, in September 1912 the court heard a petition regarding the adoption of Walter William Cutsinger.

Clara (BIDDLE) BRADY Seeks Annulment (1925)

from The Republican (Danville, Indiana) - issue of Thursday, October 1, 1925 - page 1, column 4:

FRAUDULENT MARRIAGE ALLEGATION OF COMPLAINT
Mrs. Clara Z. Brady wants her marriage with James M. Brady annulled, alleging that at the time of their pretended marriage, Aug. 2, 1925, defendant was a married man.

Plaintiff alleges that defendant represented himself to be a single man and believing such false representations to be true, and believing his name to be James M. Brady, she and he were married. She alleges that at the time defendant had an undivorced wife living in Chicago, that her name was Nellie Bouer and that defendant's true name is James M. Bouer. Plaintiff asks also that her name, Clara Z. Biddle, be restored.

Dates of death from Hendricks County estate cases 1924-1927 added

An index to the dates of death from estate cases listed in the Hendricks County probate docket and fee books for the years 1924 through 1927 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site.

ABOUT THESE RECORDS: A docket and fee book contains a brief summary of a probate case, with notations of when the case was opened and closed as well as references to other record books. For more information on an estate case, you should consult probate order books and the probate packet itself (aka "loose papers").

The Hendricks County Government's Archive has digital files of the probate docket and fee books for the years 1912-1930.

Adoption of Luella Rose KELLER (1926)

According to an entry in a Hendricks County Probate Docket & Fee Book covering the years 1924 to 1927, in February 1926 (probate case #3860) the court heard a petition from Maurice and Myrtle Buergelin to adopt Luella Rose Keller.

John BLANTON Assault & Battery Case (1867)

In the loose papers of Hendricks County probate records, an affidavit from James F. Blanton was found concerning a case involving his father, John Blanton. It reads:

"My name James F. Blanton - my age is twenty two years. I am a son of John Blanton and Delilah Blanton. I have lived all my life with them and was raised by them excepting that I was in the army three months and have visited occasionally for a few weeks at a time but made my home with my father and mother always until January 1866.

My father's treatment of mother was always kind - never saw him touch her in anger nor have I ever heard him threaten to harm her. He always provided well and kindly for her and the family. My mother has told me voluntarily since my return home with reference to the difficulty for which father is now prosecuted in this suit that it was her own fault that it occurred - that she was taunting my father and daring him to touch her and finally provoked him to slap her which she said he would not have done if she had not provoked him to it.

That she forgave him and is now sorry for this prosecution, that they are living together in friendship and have been all the time."

[NOTE: Hendricks County Circuit Court order book volume 10 (which covers 1867-1869) shows that in April 1867, John Blanton was found guilty of assault and battery and fined $25. In the 1870 Hendricks County census, John and Delilah Blanton were listed in Marion Township.]

Hendricks County marriage applications index 1934-1936 added

An index to Hendricks County Marriage Applications Book 17 (which covers 28 November 1934 to 2 May 1936) has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The index is in progress - so far it covers 1905 through 1936.

ABOUT THESE RECORDS: Beginning in May 1905, Indiana law required the recording of marriage applications, which included biographical details about the bride and the groom, as well as their parents. In Hendricks County, the information from these applications was kept in a separate set of books from the marriage record from May 1905 until June 1950.

The Hendricks County Government's Archive has digital files of all of the marriage application books.

Research Tip: Hendricks County obituaries

Hendricks County newspapers are a logical place to look for obituaries of Hendricks County residents, but don't forget to also look in neighboring counties. This is particularly true if they lived in an area that was close to the county line. If they lived in the southern half of Hendricks County, for example, you may also want to check for an obituary in the newspapers of Morgan County. The Morgan County Public Library in Martinsville and the Mooresville Public Library both have obituary databases that you can search. The links to these databases, as well as other obituary indexes for Hendricks County residents, are available at http://www.hendcogen.org/obituaries.php.

Estate cases stricken from the court docket (September 1891)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Estate cases that were stricken from the court docket on September 7, 1891 after years of no activity - the name of the executor or administrator is in parentheses:
--Matilda Gregg estate (Washington Gregg); letters issued December 15, 1873
--Jane Green estate (Hiram Hadley); letters issued April 1, 1878
--Mary Hibbs estate (Dayton R. Black); letters issued June 6, 1877
--Elizabeth Hardin estate (William J. May); letters issued May 13, 1875
--John Lee estate (Kate Lee); letters issued July 23, 1879
--Thomas W. Morgan estate (Henry T. Green); letters issued December 18, 1876
--Thomas Morgan estate (E.H. Hall); letters issued March 12, 1883
--Benjamin H. Pierce estate (Catharine Pierce); letters issued August 9, 1876
--Abner Snoddy estate (H.L. McCormick); letters issued prior to 1858
--Joel Smith estate (Benjamin T. Smith); letters issued September 14, 1864
--John D. Trotter estate (Sarah Trotter); letters issued prior to 1870
--Sarah Wilkins estate (J.A.C. Dobson); letters issued October 17, 1870
--David Ballard estate (Amos H. Mills); letters issued September 14, 1877
--James Duncan estate (Benjamin Duncan); letters issued September 7, 1885
--Charles Moore estate (Martin Gregg); letters issued prior to 1876

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (January 1892)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of January 6, 1892 [in vacation of the November 1891 term of court]:
--Alethea Coffin estate - will probated; Joseph J. Doan appointed executor
--Valentine Lingenfelter estate - will probated; H.B Lingenfelter appointed executor
--Sarah Woodward estate - will probated; W.W. Hocker appointed executor
--Manley Justice estate - Emery E. Phillips appointed administrator
--Simon P. Hagee estate - Elwood Stanley appointed administrator

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (May 1891)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of May 2, 1891 [in vacation of the March 1891 term of court]:
--John W. Estep estate - will probated; I.N. Estep appointed executor
--John W. Brown estate - will probated
--Eleazar Harlan estate - will probated
--Eli S. Bray estate - Adam Beeman appointed administrator
--Catharine Todd estate - E.R. Ellis appointed administrator
--Moses Hadley estate - B.S. Hadley appointed administrator
--Heirs of Eli S. Bray guardianship - James W. Phillips appointed guardian
--Alice J. Hodson guardianship - Henry D. Hodson appointed guardian
--Marion Butterfield guardianship - B.S. Hadley appointed administrator

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (January 1891)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of January 5, 1891 [in vacation of the November 1890 term of court]:
--Samuel McPheeters estate - will probated; Samuel W. Williams appointed administrator with the will annexed
--James E. Montgomery estate - will probated; John L. Montgomery appointed executor
--Ruth Boyland estate - will probated; Enoch Dicks appointed executor
--Eddie, Charles and Doshia Shockency guardianship (minor heirs of William Shockency) - Stephen Shockency appointed guardian

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (September 1890)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of September 1, 1890 [in vacation of the May 1890 term of court]:
--Lydia Frazee estate - will probated; Oliver Frazee appointed administrator
--John O'Toole estate - will probated; John J. O'Toole appointed administrator with the will annexed
--Sarah A. Hux estate - will probated; John T. Barnett appointed executor
--Haney E. Robards estate - will probated; Augusta A. Robards appointed administrator with the will annexed
--Mordecai Hadley estate - will probated; Joshua Hadley and Joseph J. Doan appointed executors
--James N. Tout estate - will probated; James M. Wills appointed executor
--Laura J. and Freddie A. Huff guardianship (minor heirs of Cynthia A. Huff) - Henry C. Coffin appointed guardian
--Thomas J. Conaty guardianship (person of unsound mind) - additional bond taken out for $28,000, with Franklin Landers and John Landers as the sureties
--Richmond & Adams surviving partnership - bond taken for $3600, with H.T. Storm, Thad S. Adams and W.L. Wilson as the sureties
--Daniel Cox estate - Benjamin G. Edmondson appointed administrator
--John A. Carter estate - Nancy Carter appointed administrator
--Sarah Ann Wilson estate - James M. Erganbright appointed administrator
--Mary A. Tinder estate - Michael Higgins, Sr. appointed administrator
--William J. Weaver estate - James A. Downard appointed administrator
--Delila A. Tinder estate - James A. Downard appointed administrator

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (May 1890)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of May 5, 1890 [in vacation of the March 1890 term of court]:
--Effie May Long guardianship - Joseph Lamb appointed guardian
--Homer, Effie and Chester Hunt guardianship - Smith R. Davis appointed guardian
--Martha A. Moore estate - will probated; Jacob Chandler appointed executor
--Adam Jones estate - will probated
--Miranda A. Moon estate - Edward H. Conn appointed administrator
--Malachi Haley estate - ordered settled as insolvent.

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (March 1890)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of March 3, 1890 [in vacation of the January 1890 term of court]:
--William Graney estate - Richard Graney appointed administrator
--Fielding Null guardianship (minor heir of George Null) - Homer A. Benson appointed guardian
--Jacob T. and Malinda J. Palmer estates - petition granted to sell their interest in a drug store

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (January 1890)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of January 6, 1890 [in vacation of the November 1889 term of court]:
--Hannah H. Newman estate - Cyrus Osborn appointed administrator
--Benjamin E. Money estate - Isaac B. Waters appointed administrator
--Charles J. Lumpkin estate - Nancy A. Lumpkin appointed administrator; petition granted to continue his mercantile business
--Charlotte J. Piercy guardianship (minor heir of Reed Piercy) - John F. Keeney appointed guardian

Hendricks County guardianship index (1833-1861) added

An index to a Hendricks County guardianship docket book which covers 1833 to 1861 has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The index includes the name of the ward, as well as the name of their guardian and the year that letters were issued in the case.

Guardianship records are part of probate records, and additional information can be found in probate order books as well as probate "loose papers".

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (September 1889)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of September 2, 1889 [in vacation of the May term of court]:
--George L. Roach estate - will probated
--Rachel E. Smock estate - will probated
--Hamilton Huston estate - will probated; Enoch G. Hogate appointed administrator with the will annexed and ordered to dispose of certain personal property at a private sale
--James S. Jones estate - will probated; Mary Jones appointed executor
--Jesse N. Townsend estate - will probated; William Townsend appointed executor
--William M. Wilson estate - will probated; Orville W. Lowry appointed executor
--Katy Boswell estate - Mahlon Boyd appointed administrator
--Sarah Patterson estate - James H. Burns and Thomas J. Nash appointed administrators
--Nancy J. Jeffers estate - John W. Trotter appointed administrator
--Jonathan L. Moffitt estate - Catharine E. Moffitt appointed administrator
--Nancy Rennard estate - James M. Barlow appointed administrator
--Joseph Asher estate - Benjamin G. Edmondson appointed administrator
--John D. Kelleher guardianship - Thomas B. Keller appointed guardian
--Heirs of Elizabeth Huddleston guardianship - Fielding Huddleston appointed guardian

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (May 1889)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of May 6, 1889 [in vacation of the March term of court]:
--Ruth Jenkins estate - Lotan W. Jenkins appointed executor
--Amanda Leak estate - George L. Leak appointed administrator
--Thomas Muir estate - John Kendall appointed administrator
--Mary F. McMain guardianship (person of unsound mind) - Squire Thompson appointed guardian
--Elizabeth J. Hodson guardianship (person of unsound mind) - Henry D. Hodson appointed guardian
--Josiah McCormack estate - will probated

Activity in Hendricks County probate cases (March 1889)

From Hendricks County probate records:

Activity in probate cases as of March 4, 1889 [in vacation of the January term of court]:
--George R. Blackwell estate - Elisha Franklin appointed administrator
--Benjamin Allbright estate - Aaron Mills appointed administrator
--Robert McClelland estate - John W. Brown appointed administrator
--Hiram Mitchell, Sr. estate - Hiram Mitchell appointed administrator
--John W. Templin estate - James A. Downard appointed administrator de bonis non with the will annexed
--Susannah Pounds estate - James O. Parker appointed administrator
--Thomas C. Loyd estate - J.D. Cottingham appointed administrator
--Emma V. Warren guardianship (minor heir of Emma F. Warren) - Alva Warren appointed guardian
--Charles M. and Burton Rushton guardianship (minor heirs of William Rushton, Sr.) - Thomas E. Hamrick appointed guardian
--Philemon Phillips estate - will probated
--William M. Craven, Sr. estate - will probated

Hendricks County marriage applications index 1932-1934 added

An index to Hendricks County Marriage Applications Book 16 (which covers 24 November 1932 to 28 November 1934) has been added to the Hendricks County GenWeb site. The index is in progress - so far it covers 1905 through 1934.

ABOUT THESE RECORDS: Beginning in May 1905, Indiana law required the recording of marriage applications, which included biographical details about the bride and the groom, as well as their parents. In Hendricks County, the information from these applications was kept in a separate set of books from the marriage record from May 1905 until June 1950.

The Hendricks County Government's Archive has digital files of all of the marriage application books.

Travis JOHNSON and Fanny DEE Charged With Adultery (1840)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Order Book Volume 3 (April 1840 - April 1843), in April 1840 Travis Johnson and Fanny Dee were charged with adultery. Travis Johnson paid a $200 bond (with John Stewart as the surety on the bond) to appear at the next term of court. In October 1840, the court ruled that the charges were "insufficient in law", and the case was dismissed.

Milly DAVIS Charged With Adultery (1832)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Order Book Volume 1 (October 1824 - April 1835), in April 1832 Emilia "Milly" Davis, who had been charged with adultery and fornication, failed to appear in court. John Kearns, who had been the security on her bond, also failed to appear. In October 1832, they were still unable to find her. In April 1833, the county prosecutor announced the charges were being dropped.

John KEARNS Charged With Adultery (1832)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Order Book Volume 1 (October 1824 - April 1835), in April 1832 John Kearns, who had been charged with adultery and fornication, failed to appear in court. Thomas Samuel, who had been the security on his bond, also failed to appear. In October 1832, he was still unable to be found; in April 1833, the county prosecutor told the court the charges were being dropped.

Andrew MILLER Charged With Adultery (1829)

As mentioned in Hendricks County Circuit Court Order Book Volume 1 (October 1824 - April 1835), in February 1829 Andrew Miller, who had been charged with adultery and fornication, failed to appear in court.