Preface The aim of the publishers of this volume has been to secure for the historical portion thereof full and accurate information respecting all subjects therein treated, and to present in a clear and impartial manner the data thus gathered. If, as is their hope, they have succeeded in this endeavor, the credit is mainly due to the diligent and exhaustive research of the editor of the historical statement, Hon. S. S. Scranton, of Celina. In collecting and arranging the material which has entered into this history, it has been his aim to secure facts and to present them in an interesting form. His patient and conscientious labor in the compilation and presentation of the data is shown in the historical portion of this volume. All topics and occurrences have been included that are essential to the usefulness of the history. Although the purpose of the author was to limit the narrative to the close of 1906, he has deemed it proper to touch on many matters relating to the current year. The reviews of resolute and strenuous lives, which make up the biographical department of the volume, and whose authorship is wholly independent of that of the history, are admirably adapted to foster local ties, to inculcate patriotism and to emphasize the rewards of industry, dominated, by intelligent purpose. They constitute a most appropriate medium of perpetuating personal annals and will be of incalculable value to the descendants of those commemorated. They bring into bold relief careers of enterprise and thrift and make manifest valid claims to honorable distinction. If "Biography is the only true History," it is obviously the duty of men of the present time to preserve in this enduring form the story of their lives in order that their posterity may dwell on the successful struggles thus recorded, and profit by their example. These sketches, replete with stirring incidents and intense experiences, will naturally prove to most of the readers of this book its most attractive feature. In the aggregate of personal memoirs thus collated will be found a vivid epitome of the growth of Mercer County, which will fitly supplement the historical statement; for the development of the county is identified with that |