Jasper County Democrat, Volume 18, Number 10, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 12 May 1915 — SAYS THAT HE IS THE OLDEST SETTLER [ARTICLE]

SAYS THAT HE IS THE OLDEST SETTLER

Now in Newton County—Ransom Elijah Makes Claim —Helped Divide County. Morocco Courier:— Editor Courier: I claim to be the oldest settler in Newton county. I was born in the state of New York, February 3, 1835; and in June of the same year my father started for Indiana in company with August Bingham. My father owned a yoke of oxen. My father and mother also had four boys and four girls. They unloaded their goods the 6th day of October near where James Roberts’ house now stands, close to the Roberts bridge. We lived there one year then moved to Jordan-towp-ship, Jasper county, where we lived three years, then we moved to Jackson township which was then included in Jasper county, in which township I have lived ever since. I was just old enough to sign a petition to divide the county. In 1 864 1 went to Montana on a bold hunting expedition and was there two years and six months. My wife and children remained at home in Jackson'township as I never went with the intention of making my home there and I have never voted any place else but here in Jackson township. We always had plenty to eat, such as it was. My folks always raised a good garden and we never had to buy bread stuff but always had some to sell. Our clothing was all made at home, in summer they were made from flax and in winter from wool off the sheeps back, therefore, we were out no money only to buy needles. I am writing this by lamp light and as it is getting late I will tell the rest some other time. Must say my little prayer and go to bed. i- J V RANSOM ELIJAH.