Copyright USGenNet Inc., 2012, All Rights Reserved U.S. Data Repository Please read U.S. Data Repository Copyright Statement on this page: Transcribed and submitted by Linda Talbott for the US Data Repository http://www.us-data.org/ ========================================================================= U.S. Data Repository NOTICE: These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit or presentation by any other organization. Non-commercial organizations desiring to use this material must obtain the consent of the transcriber prior to use. Individuals desiring to use this material in their own research may do so. ========================================================================= Formatted by U.S. Data Repository Chief Archivist, Linda Talbott All of the above information must remain when copied or downloaded. =========================================================================== SOURCE: History of Genesee County, Michigan pub. Everts and Abbott - 1879 Page 183 HISTORY OF THE TOWNSHIPS OF GENESEE COUNTY FLINT TOWNSHIP The township of Flint was originally organized in 1836, by act of Legislature, from "all that part of the county embraced in surveyed townships 7, 8, and 9 north, in ranges 5, 6 and 7 east," and the first township-meeting was held at the house of Wait Beach, at the Flint River settle- ment. In the year 1855 the city became a separate cor- poration, and the territory of the township was divided, -- the west half retaining the name Flint, and the east half receiving the name of Burton. This history of the township is so closely allied to the early history of the city that it is difficult to define the line which separates them, and the interest which attaches to the settlement of the township is so entirely absorbed by the city record as to leave but a mere mention of the arrival of early settlers, - their location and the story of early strug- gles, persevering effort, and a final condition of compe- tence, as the reward of their industry. The township as it at present exists, together with its early settlement, will be described and the original entries given, which were as follows: Section 1. Acres Luther Dickenson, June 9, 1834.....................94.44 " " , Oct. 8, 1835.....................80.80 John P. Kellogg, May 9, 1835......................160 Robert Mathes, Jan. 26, 1836...................... 80 Section 2. Daniel Curtis, Dec. 17, 1834.......................40 John P. Kellogg, May 19, 1835......................80 " " , Aug. 1, 1835......................34.92 Peabody Pratt, July 10, 1835.......................61.92 John Peck, Dec. 9, 1834...........................157.30 Josiah Kellogg, Jr., March 19, 1836............... 40 Simeon M. Johnson, June 28, 1836.................. 40 Jason Swift, " " ..................120 Section 3. David M. Jewett, May 27, 1836.....................137.56 Section 4. Nathan M. Miles, June 5, 1833.....................139.94 Andrew Hyslop, July 13, 1835......................158.70 Wm. W. Brewster, Oct. 12, 1835.................... 45.95 Section 5. Nathan M. Miles, June 5, 1833..................... 55.24 Levi Gilkey, Aug. 21, 1833........................ 50.04 John Patten, June 17, 1834........................ 65.74 " " , Sept. 2, 1834........................ 47.52 Daniel Sullivan, Oct. 25, 1834.................... 39.65 Russell Welsh, June 3, 1835....................... 38.77 " " , June 9, 1835....................... 39.82 John Greenfield, Aug. 5, 1835.....................153.87 " " , Sept. 11, 1835................... 80 Levi Gilkey, May 30, 1835......................... 38.77 Section 6. Nathaniel Nelson, Sept. 11, 1833.................. 15.30 Henry Cobb, March 30, 1835........................ 80.47 Dudley Brown, May 26, 1835........................136 Anson Gilbert, June 21, 1836......................160 Robert Mathes, June 21, 1836...................... 74.66 Henry Diamond, May 25, 1836.......................147.48 Section 7. Thos. L. L. Brent, March 28, 1836.................160 Caty E. Balding, April 16, 1836................... 80 Robt. H. Wallis, June 4, 1836.....................147.20 J. R. Bowman, June 13, 1836.......................149 Wm. Lockyer, July 6, 1836......................... 40 Thos. J. Drake, July 16, 1836..................... 40 Section 8. John Evans, Nov. 9, 1835.......................... 80 William Tilton, Jan. 8, 1836...................... 40 John Greenfield, Jan. 25, 1836.................... 40 Norton Cronk, March 28, 1836...................... 40 T. L. L. Brent, " , " ......................160 John Taylor, April 1, 1836........................120 Section 9. Wm. W. Brewster, Oct. 12, 1835....................129.58 Wm. Tilton, Jan. 8, 1836.......................... 80 W. Barclay, and Greenfield, June 13, 1836.........113.59 Section 10. - Reservation Section 11. Oliver G. Wesson, Dec. 16, 1835....................206 Section 12. Oliver G. Wesson, Dec. 16, 1835.................... 44.71 Section 13. - Reservation Section 14. - Reservation Section 15. Thomas L. L. Brent, March 28, 1836..................153.72 Section 16. - Public School Lands Section 17. David McDonald, April 25, 1836...................... 80 John and Thos. Kenedy, April 25, 1836...............160 Royal Chamberlin, May 2, 1836.......................160 " " , May 27, 1836...................... 80 James Wadsworth, July 7, 1836....................... 80 Royal Chamberlin, May 4, 1836....................... 80 Section 18. Clinton D. Cuddeback, June 3, 1836..................149.44 Henry Spencer, July 7, 1836.........................149.80 James Wadsworth, " , " .........................240 Thos. J. Drake, July 16, 1836....................... 80 Page 184 Section 19. Acres Thomas Slade, June 2, 1836.......................... 80 Hinman Rexford, Sept 12, 1836....................... 80 Eben and Henry French, Oct. 11, 1836................ 70.44 Wm. B. Clifford, " , " ................ 80 Eleazer G. Belknap, " , " ................160 O. D. Richardson, Oct. 19, 1836.....................152 Section 20. John and Thos. Kennedy, April 25, 1836..............160 Royal Chamberlin, May 25, 1836......................160 David M. Jewitt, May 27, 1836.......................160 Thomas Slade, June 2, 1836.......................... 80 Thomas J. Drake, June 16, 1836...................... 80 Section 21. John D. McIntire, April 25, 1836....................240 John and Thos. Kennedy, April 25, 1836..............400 Section 22. Morrison Paulding................................... 80 D. S. Hickcox....................................... Wm P. Patrick....................................... (Transcriber note: All three above names bracketed with date of Jan. 1, 1836, joint owners of 80 acres) Calvin Hotchkiss, Jan 4, 1836....................... 75.05 Wm. Payne, March 28, 1836........................... 80 John D. McIntire, April 25, 1836.................... 80 Daniel McKercher, " , " ....................160 Archibald Kennedy, " , " ....................160 Section 23. Alonzo Torrey, July 21, 1835........................ 80 John Getten, Sept. 21, 1835......................... 80 Timothy Walkley, Nov. 19, 1844...................... 80 Morrison Paulding, .................................137.12 D. S. Hickcox ...................................... Wm. P. Patrick, Jan. 1, 1836........................ (Transcriber note: All three above names bracketed with date of Jan 1, 1836, joint owners of property) Calvin Hotchkiss, Jan. 4, 1836...................... 94.26 Section 24. Jesse Torrey, July 21, 1835.........................397.91 Section 25. Elijah Carmon, June 9, 1835......................... 80 Joseph Carmon, Sept. 1, 1835........................ 80 John Beaman, Sept. 21, 1835.........................160 Asa Torrey, Oct. 29, 1835........................... 80 Margaret Moon, Jan. 23, 1836........................ 80 Alonzo Torrey, April 2, 1836........................ 80 Section 26. Lysander Phillips, Sept. 16, 1835................... 80 Jeremiah Relsey, Sept. 17, 1835.....................160 Hiram Judd, Oct. 19, 1835........................... 80 Delia Walkley, March 22, 1836....................... 80 Thos. L. L. Brent, March 28, 1836................... 80 Juba Barrows, May 4, 1836........................... 80 Joseph Nichols, May 6, 1836......................... 80 Section 27. Jesse Welch, Oct. 29, 1835.......................... 40 James M. Welch, Dec. 26, 1835....................... 40 Timothy Walkley, March 28, 1836.....................160 William Bendle, " , " ..................... 80 Willard Eddy, " , " ..................... 80 Thomas L. L. Brent, " , " ..................... 80 James Warren, May 6, 1836, ......................... 80 Henry Warren, " , " ..................... 80 Section 28. William Bendle, March 28, 1836 .....................240 George Crocker, " , " .....................160 William Bendle, April 4, 1836 ..................... 80 Nathan C. Dayton, May 2, 1836 ..................... 80 P. G. Cochrane, " , " ..................... 80 Section 29. David McDonald, April 25, 1836......................320 H. M. Henderson, May 30, 1836.......................160 Orion Blodget, June 2, 1836.........................160 Section 30. H. M. Henderson, May 30, 1836....................... 80 Edmund F. Opps, " , " .......................236.12 Mark Healy and B.B. Kercheval, May 31, 1836.........314.68 Section 31. John W. McNair, May 30, 1836.........................318.88 George Jasperson, June 10, 1836......................159.50 Erastus Cash, June 25, 1836..........................160 Section 32. Timothy Walkley, April 6, 1836....................... 80 John D. Tole, June 1, 1836...........................240 Hiram Wright, June 25, 1836..........................160 Erastus Cash, " , " ..........................160 Section 33. George Crocker, March 28, 1836.......................160 John Thorne, " , " ....................... 80 Willard Eddy, " , " .......................160 George Crocker, April 4, 1836........................ 80 Jonathan Shearer, May 6, 1836........................160 Section 34. T. G. Holden, May 4, 1836............................160 Juba Barrows, " , " ............................160 William A. Rupp, May 4, 1836.........................160 Amander Gardner, July 5, 1836........................ 80 Thomas H. Perkins, July 6, 1836...................... 80 Section 35. William N. Stanard, April 22, 1836...................400 Timothy Walkley, May 20, 1836........................ 80 John Keale, May 26, 1836.............................120 M. Healy and B.B. Kercheval, May 31, 1836............ 40 An effort has been made to obtain the early records of the township from its organization, but the most diligent search has failed to discover any book of records earlier than 1854. When the city was set apart some discussion arose as to which organization should have the custody of the old records, each having claimed them. It was finally determined that Flint township was entitled to them, and they were consequently accorded her. The present clerk has never had them in his custody; the oldest township official has no knowledge of them; neither are they to be found among the archives of Burton or the city of Flint. The historian also applied to the county clerk for aid, but was successful only in obtaining a list of the supervisors from 1836, and not finding the memory of any old settler suffi- ciently retentive to fill in the blank, submits the fragment- ary list as the best obtainable: 1836-37. - Lyman Stow, Supervisor 1838. -- Robert F. Stage, Supervisor 1839-41. - No supervisor's name recorded 1842. -- John L. Gage, Supervisor 1843. -- G.H. Hazelton, Supervisor 1844. -- John L. Gage, Supervisor 1845-46. - William Patterson, Supervisor 1847. -- William M. Fenton, Supervisor 1848-49. - John L. Gage, Supervisor 1850. -- A.P. Davis, Supervisor 1851. -- William Patterson, Supervisor 1852-53. - Porter Hazelton, Supervisor 1854. -- William Patterson, Supervisor; John C. Griswold, Treasurer Daniel S. Freeman, William S. Crandell, Justices of the Peace; Orville D. Chapman, Township Clerk; William Gage, Highway Commissioner; Robert D. Lamond, School Inspector; John Delbridge, Daniel Mathew, Overseers of the Poor; Alonzo Cary, Philo Fairchild, D. L. Nash, and M. Ide, Constables. 1855. -- John L. Gage, Supervisor; Harlow Whittlesey, Township Clerk; Daniel Torrey, Treasurer; Robert P. Aitken, H. G. Conger, Abel S. Donelson, Chandler H. Rockwood, Justices of the Peace; William Boomer, Highway Commissioner; Dwight Frost, Daniel McKercher, School Inspectors; Lewis Buckingham, Lysander Phillips, Directors of the Poor; An- drew J. Eggleston, Charles R. Bristol, Dewitt Parker, Jacob Eldridge, Constables. 1856. -- R. P. Aitkin, Supervisor; D. McKercher, Township Clerk; Clark Boomer, Treasurer; William J. Colvin, Commissioner of Highways; Elijah D. Farnham, Charles C. Parrish, School Inspectors; Thomas B. Begole, Abel S. Donelson, Directors of the Poor; Lorenzo D. Morse, Horace Bristol, Lewis Buckingham, Justices of the Peace; Andrew Fan- cheon, Theodore Tupper, Henry Bristol, Abram D. Cudney, Constables. 1857. -- Robert W. Dullam, Supervisor; Thomas H. Nesbitt, Town- ship Clerk; Marvin Tupper, Treasurer; Andrew Hyslop, Justice of the Peace; George Crocker, Highway Commis- sioner; John Russell, School Inspector; Lysander Phillips, Dewitt C. Cuddeback, Directors of the Poor; William V. Hilton, Philip Washburn, Corydon Cronk, John Lane, Jr., Constables. 1858. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; John Brookins, Township Clerk; Lyman M. Murray, Treasurer; Elijah Farnham, School Inspector; Fred A. Begole, Justice of the Peace; Lysander Phillips, Roswell Hilton, Directors of the Poor; George Persons, Highway Commissioner; Ephraim Foster, Henry Bristol, William V. Hilton, Abram D. Cudney, Con- stables. 1859. -- R. P. Aitkin, Supervisor; John Brookins, Township Clerk; Lyman M. Murray, Treasurer; John Russell, School In- spector; George C. Murray, Highway Commissioner; Ben- jamin Boomer, Sr., Horace Bristol, Directors of the Poor; George F. Hood, Justice of the Peace; Henry Bristol, Fran- cis F. Brewer, Martin Cuddeback, Constables. 1860. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; John Brookins, Township Clerk; Lyman M. Murray, Treasurer; Thomas Partridge, Justice of the Peace; George Crocker, Highway Commis- sioner; Barnabas M. Fay, School Inspector; Ephraim Foster, Jesse Birdsall, Harman W. Whitney, William Part- ridge, Constables. 1861. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; John Brookins, Township Clerk; Lyman M. Murray, Treasurer; Andrew Hyslop, Isaac N. Robinson, Justices of the Peace; A. Clark Merritt, School Inspector; Peter Sellers, Highway Commissioner; William Turver, William Parkhurst, Squire E. Foster, Ben- jamin Boomer, Constables. 1862. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; John Brookins, Township Clerk; Lyman M. Murray, Treasurer; Barnabas M. Fay, School Inspector; Marvin B. Person, Highway Commis- sioner; Frederic A. Begole, Justice of the Peace; Benja- min Boomer, Jr., John Hodge, De Witt C. Cuddeback, Wm. V. Hilton, Constables. 1863. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; Charles M. Williams, Town- ship Clerk; Lyman M. Murray, Treasurer; John Russell, School Inspector; John Brookins, Highway Commissioner; Isaac N. Robinson, E. M. Tupper, Justice of the Peace; Stephen Hempsted, Henry C. Gilbert, David Rush, Benjamin B. Boomer, Constables. 1864. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; John Brookins, Township Clerk; Lyman M. Murray, Treasurer; Abel S. Donelson, Justice of the Peace; John M. Dresser, Highway Commis- sioner; A. Clark Merritt, Barnabas M. Fay, School Inspec- tors; Albert Van Slyke, Benjamin Boomer, Stephen Hemp- sted, Henry C. Gilbert, Constables. 1865. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; Leander Church, Township Clerk; Horace Bristol, Treasurer; John Russell, School In- spector; Horace J. Brockway, Henry C. Van Tifflin, High- way Commissioners; Andrew Hyslop, Justice of the Peace; Charles Rice, Horace J. Brockway, Stephen Hempsted, Ben- jamin Boomer, Constables. 1866. -- R. P. Aitkin, Supervisor; John Wilson, Township Clerk; John Brookins, Treasurer; W. J. Cronk, School Inspector; Geo. Crocker, Highway Commissioner; Edward M. Tupper, Justice of the Peace; James Funcheon, Thos. D. Partridge, Stephen Hempsted, A. Van Slyke, Constables. 1867. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; John Wilson, Township Clerk; Andrew Hyslop, Treasurer; Edward M. Tupper, School In- spector; Philip Bettesworth, Isaac N. Robinson, Highway Commissioners; Isaac N. Robinson, Justice of the Peace; David Persons, Horace B. Boomer, Wm. V. Hilton, Warren Buckley, Constables. 1868. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; John Wilson, Andrew Hyslop, Treasurers; George L. Walker, School Inspector; Clark Boomer, Highway Commissioner; Abram S. Donelson, Justice of the Peace; Benjamin Boomer, Newall Bristol, Elisha Brewer, Stephen Hempsted, Constables. 1869. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; George F. Hood, Township Clerk; John H. Carey, Treasurer; Edward M. Tupper, School Inspector; Lyman P. Andrews, Highway Commis- sioner; Marvin B. Persons, Justice of the Peace; Horace B. Boomer, Wm. H. Utley, James Williams, Eugene Curtis, Constables. 1870. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; James Williams, Township Clerk; John H. Carey, Treasurer; George Walker, School Inspector; Philip Bettesworth, Highway Commissioner; Edward M. Tupper, Charles Rice, Justices of the Peace; Bradford G. Reed, Oliver Dye, George Darling, Abram V. Green, Constables. 1871. -- R.P Aitkin, Supervisor; William H. Aitkin, Township Clerk; Mortimer Carter, Treasurer; E. A. Brewer, School Inspector; Clark Boomer, Alfred Gifford, Highway Commissioners; Hugh Nichols, Justice of the Peace; Bradford G. Reed, Henry Olds, George Persons, Horace B. Boomer, Consta- bles. 1872. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; William Ransom, Mortimer Carter, Treasurers; Minor S. Newhall, School Inspector; Alfred Gifford, Highway Commissioner; John H. Gotshall, Drain Commissioner; Frederick A. Begole, Samuel Bickley, Justices of the Peace; Bradford G. Reed, Horace B. Boomer, Samuel Bickley, James Begole, Constables. 1873. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; Thomas H. Nesbitt, Township Clerk; E. A. Brewer, Treasurer; Stephen R. Hall, Highway Commissioner; John C. Vincent, Justice of the Peace; James M. Torrey, School Inspector; Henry C. Gilbert, Drain Commissioner; Peter Gordon, Horace B. Boomer, Samuel Sellers, George Utley, Sr., Constables. 1874. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; A. Torrey, Township Clerk; E. A. Brewer, Treasurer; Minor S. Newhall, School Inspector John Mackin, Highway Commissioner; Albert Torrey, Drain Commissioner; Edward M. Tupper, Justice of the Peace; William H. Darling, Samuel Bickley, William D. Johnston, Peter Gordon, Constables. 1875. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; Andre Torrey, Township Clerk; Stephen R. Hall, Treasurer; Clark Boomer, Justice of the Peace; James M. Torrey, Superintendent of Schools; S. Eugene Warner, School Inspector; Hugh Nichols, Highway Commissioner; Milo Donelson, Drain Commissioner; Horace Boomer, Robert Ellsworth, Bradford G. Reed, Peter Gordon, Constables. 1876. -- Robert P. Aitkin, Supervisor; Thomas H. Nesbitt, Town- ship Clerk; Stephen R. Hall, Treasurer; James M. Torrey, Superintendent of Schools; Hugh Nichols, Highway Commis- sioner; Milo Donelson, Drain Commissioner; F. A. Begole, Justice of the Peace; Wm. Blackinton, Peter Gordon, Hor- ace B. Boomer, W. D. Johnston, Alvaro Boucher, Constables. 1877. -- Thomas H. Nesbitt, Supervisor; James M. Torrey, Township Clerk; Andre Torrey, Treasurer; B. H. J. Jackson, School Inspector; Robert A. Blackinton, Superintendent of Schools; Hugh Nichols, Commissioner of Highways; John C. Vincent, Drain Commissioner; John Mackin, Justice of the Peace; Peter Gordon, Hiram Hall, George Sellers, William Welch, Constables. 1878. -- Thomas H. Nesbitt, Supervisor; Robert A. Blackinton, Township Clerk; Andre Torrey, Treasurer; Zorrie House, Superintendent of Schools; Calvin C. Warner, School Inspector; Hugh Nichols, Highway Commissioner; William A. Colmer, Drain Commissioner; John H. Carey, Justice of the Peace; Peter Gordon, John Signer, Chas. McElhany, George Bettesworth, Constables. 1879. -- Thomas H. Nesbitt, Supervisor; Robert A. Blackinton, Township Clerk; Lyman Eggleston, Treasurer; Alfred Torrey, School Inspector; Zorrie House, Superintendent of Schools; Hugh Nichols, Highway Commissioner; Peter Gordon, Drain Commissioner; Clark Boomer, Justice of the Peace; Thomas House, George L. Utley, George Bettesworth, Constables. Page 186 Some difference of opinion exists as to whom should be accorded the honor of first breaking the forests of the township. ELIJAH CARMAN it is generally conceded erected the first log house, and the historian has not been able to discover any records or information which materially inter- feres with the claim of Mr. CARMAN'S family to be consid- ered as the earliest settlers. JESSE TORREY was the founder of the Torrey settlement, and came the same year with Mr. CARMAN, but the latter's advent antedates that of Mr. TORREY. ELIJAH CARMAN removed from Oakland County early in 1835, and located in the township 80 acres, described as "the east half of the southeast quarter of section 25." He immediately cleared upon this tract a piece of land embracing about three acres and erected a log house, which there is little doubt was the first in the township. In September of the same year he was comfortably housed in his new quarters. At the raising of this house were five men and one boy from the village of Flint, which embraced nearly the whole male population of the place. The band was reinforced the following day by two men, who arrived with a view to settling. Mr. CARMAN endured many privations, and does not seem to have much enjoyed his pioneer life. He was a skillful hunter, and depended greatly upon his rifle for table sup- plies. The skins of the deer he shot were tanned and converted into trousers and mittens, making durable if not elegant garments. Fodder was so scarce that the cattle were browsed upon the limbs which were cut from the trees and piled for them. A man with an axe upon his shoulder was the inevitable suggestion of dinner of dinner to them, and the hungry quadrupeds would follow him for miles. Mr. CARMAN'S log house was the scene of many religious gatherings in 1836-37, when, on alternate Sabbaths, the neighbors heard the Gospel expounded by Revs. JAMES McALESTER and ______ BLANCHARD. In the year 1837, COR- NELIUS MARS, the father-in-law of Mr. CARMAN, came and erected a log house on his farm. His residence was brief, death having removed him from the little circle of pioneers two years later. Mr. CARMAN survived him but a brief period, his death occurring in 1840. In 1835 arrived an emigrant from Genesee County, N.Y., who proved an important element in the growth of the township, and who has been already alluded to, -- JESSE TORREY. With him came his wife, daughter, and four sons, -- ALONZO, ASA, ALBERT, and ALMA. He located 400 acres on section 24, which was a fractional section. ALONZO, his son, entered on sections 23 and 25, each 80 acres. ASA entered 80 acres on section 25. These were the first entries made in the locality known as the Torrey Settle- ment, which these gentlemen founded, and among the very first in the township. There are also the DYE, UTLEY, CRONK, BRISTOL, STANARD, and CARTER settlements, all originally founded by the gentle- men whose names they bear, who were leading spirits in these particular localities. Mr. ALONZO TORREY states that his father's land was the first cleared, Mr. CARMAN'S having been previously entered but not improved. Their approach to the new home they were about establishing was made under many difficulties. After leaving the Thread they were obliged to cut their way, crossing the creek where it was most easily forded, and choosing the route which it seemed possible to render most accessible. The country was uninhabited save by wolves and deer, which roamed the forests unmolested. RUFUS STEVEN'S mill, at the Thread, afforded JESSE TORREY an opportunity to erect for himself and family a comfort- able habitation of logs, cut from the immediate spot, while slabs did duty, in lieu of shingles, for a roof. The TORREY'S advent in the township was made in Octo- ber of 1836, the previous July, having afforded father and sons an opportunity of prospecting and locating their lands. JESSE TORREY was the first pioneer who may in any sense be regarded as a moneyed man. He brought with him, after purchasing his land, about $4000 in cash, and devoted it, with exceeding liberality and public spirit, to the improve- ment and advancement of the neighborhood, affording em- ployment to many who were dependent upon their earnings for support, and giving opportunity to others, who desired to establish homes for themselves. The same year of ALONZO TORREY'S arrival he erected a house upon his land, having previously lived with his father. This house was quite pretentious in appearance, having two roofs, - one on either side, - covered with shingles split from white ash. The owner well remembers the circum- stance of their manufacture, from the fact that in making them he cut his foot so severely as to render a crutch neces- sary during the remainder of the time the house was build- ing. On its completion, Mr. TORREY repaired to Orleans Co., N.Y., and took to himself a wife, who is still liv- ing, and recalls with much satisfaction her early days in the wilderness. On their arrival at Detroit from the East they were charged by a teamster $40 for a conveyance to transport themselves and their goods to Flint. Mr. TORREY declined the questionable service for the best of reasons -- it was quite beyond the possibilities of his exchequer. Fortunately, they observed a man near by, making a bar- gain with another teamster to transport him to the Thread mills, which he had engaged to run for Mr. STEVENS. They bargained with him at 12 shillings a hundred, and $3 apiece was asked to transport the ladies, -- the capacity of the vehicle being limited to 800 pounds. With them was a portion of their worldly goods,-- the limited capacity of the vehicle obliging them to leave the remainder behind, where they remained until the following winter. Two cows were also brought, which proved a sad incumbrance to them on their travels. The ladies, for whom a comfortable means of transporta- tion had been engaged, found, very soon after starting, that they would not only advance their own comfort by walking, but that the traveling speed of the cattle would be greatly enhanced thereby. Mr. TORREY discovered that it would be necessary to de- vise some means to balance the load to prevent its tipping; he therefore fastened a rope at one side, with which he prevented its falling from him, while with a pole he main- tained its equilibrium upon the other side. The Thread River was ultimately reached, where the goods were left until a more convenient opportunity offered for taking them farther. They then proceeded, and had made but little pro- Page 187 gress when the horses were mired, and any further efforts to advance upon wheels seemed useless. With a persever- ing spirit which is inherit in the pioneer, they shouldered what few effects had been placed in the vehicle, and pro- ceeded on foot, the horses finally extricating themselves and returning to Detroit. Mr. and Mrs. TORREY finally reached their primative home and prepared to battle with the privations that awaited them. Together with HIRAM JUDD, Mr. TORREY entered into a contract to cut the logs on 40 acres of land, and float them down the Flint River. This involved a total change in the domestic arrangements of the family, and in consonance with it a shanty was erected in the woods, and Mrs. TORREY installed as housekeeper. Her hospitality, though not elegant, was exceedingly grate- ful to the sturdy woodchoppers, who frequently toiled till midnight with their saws and axes. These logs were the first ever floated down the river, and the number cut was 1000, for which a compensation of fifty cents a log was received. Meanwhile, Mrs. TORREY, with a courage that would astonish the modern lady, remained the sole occupant of the shanty in the midst of the dense forest, with no sound save the murmer of the winds or the distant echo of the chopping, and no near companion but the wolves that prowled about the hovel in search of food. She facetiously remarked to the writer that even this required less courage than to endure the perilous journey to her old home again. After Mrs. TORREY had been two years in the uncleared forests of Michigan nothing seemed more natural than a desire to visit the scenes of her childhood. No events marked this visit other than were exceedingly enjoyable. Her brother, Columbus Le Valley, accompanied her on her return, and purchased later 160 acres on section 27. The journey was made without difficulty until their arrival at the Thread, which occurred as evening approached. They started for home on foot, groping their way through the forest, until night overtook them. Overcome with fatigue and prevented by the darkness from discovering any land- marks by which they could detect their present position, they both sat down, -- Mrs. TORREY to meditate and weep over the strange vicissitudes of a pioneer life, and Mr. Le Valley to wish himself back in the fruitful valleys of New York State, asserting that if he had known the facts "he wouldn't have come for a thousand dollars." Finally, the lady, with a courage and strength of will that had enabled her before to overcome all obstables, arose and declared that "she would not sleep in the woods when she was so near her Alonzo." Through the darkness her ears detected the ripple of a stream near by, and, groping her way thither, she discovered which way the water flowed, and was thus advised of the points of the compass. Bid- ing her brother follow, she advanced, pursuing her uncer- tain way until the log house of JESSE TORREY was discovered. Then, with the aid of a lantern, their destination was reached. Mr. TORREY was seen through the window, his head buried in his hands, while he repined at the fate which had deprived him of his companion. He was no less delighted than surprised at her coming, and the faith- ful wife declared that from that moment she would never leave him; which promise she has through all the years kept with fidelity. LYSANDER PHILLIPS and family lived with Mr. and Mrs. TORREY, having arrived the same fall in company with them. The following spring they moved into a log house erected upon land they purchased in the vicinity. HIRAM JUDD came with the TORREYS in 1835, and was associated with them in the clearing of the first lands. He remained two years, and returned East. After an interval of eight years he returned again to Michigan. DANIEL O'SULLIVAN, who has already figured conspicu- ously in the city history as one of its foremost pioneers and the first to advance its educational interests, was also a very early settler in the township, having purchased 40 acres not far from the Cronk settlement, where he remained for a period of years, and finally returned again to the city. His venerable form may still be seen daily upon Saginaw Street. In 1835 came also ANDREW HYSLOP, a gentleman of Scotch descent, who located 160 acres on section 4. After his death his widow removed to the city, where she now resides. Mrs. HYSLOP retains vivid memories of the depri- vations she endured on her arrival. The roads from Detroit were almost impassable when they came, and the usual diffi- culties were experienced. From Flint to their own land there was no road, and sufficient brush was cleared to admit of an opening, through which they made slow progress. JOHN GREENFIELD, their neighbor, had purchased 300 acres on section 5, and begun the erection of a log house. In this uncompleted abode Mr. and Mrs. HYSLOP were content to remain until they were able to build a home of their own. In the spring of 1836, WILLIAM N. STANARD, of Stafford, Genesee Co., N.Y., entered the south half of section 35, and the northwest quarter of the same section. His sons, JEREMIAH R. and ROSEL, had preceded him, the latter having been induced to become a pioneer at the earnest solicitation of JESSE TORREY, who offered to aid him in the purchase of land when he should make a satisfactory location. Mr. STANARD, hearing of a tract now embraced in the city limits, and which had not been entered (a location which subse- quently proved invaluable), mentioned it to Mr. TORREY, who instructed him to complete his arrangements. He also unfortunately gave the same information to a friend, and within hearing was the inevitable lounger, who may be found even at this late day sunning himself on the corner, or hanging about the neighboring bar-rooms. This indi- vidual was not slow to avail himself of the facts he had overheard. He went directly to JAMES W. CRONK, and re- peated what he had heard. The followind day Mr. STANARD and JESSE TORREY repaired to the land-office to make the entry. Mr. CRONK made his exit as they entered, having five minutes before purchased the tract they were about locating. Mr. STANARD, Sr., however, gave his sons each 80 acres of the land he had purchased. JEREMIAH R. sub- sequently removed to Lapeer County, and ROSEL, who chopped the first acre of land in the TORREY settlement, still occupies the farm originally given him. GEORGE W. RAPP came in 1836, having married a daughter of WILLIAM N. STANARD, who also received 80 acres of her father's entry. GEORGE CROCKER came at nearly the same date and located on section 27, 160 acres which he immediately improved, Page 188 and has brought to a high state of cultivation. Ox-teams were in common use at this early period, horses not being easily procured, and being less available in breaking the rough land. On the bank of Swartz Creek, where the TORREY church now stands, was erected in 1838 the first school-house in the township. It was built of logs and was at a later date burned, the fire being generally regarded as the result of accident. The teacher who disciplined the youth of this early period was Miss LOUISA KIMBALL, who afterwards became Mrs. JOSEPH FREEMAN, and is now Mrs. HORACE BRISTOL. After Miss KIMBALL'S term expired, the school was placed in charge of Miss JANE WATKINS, whose brief career was terminated by the burning of the school-house. Fortu- nately the neighborhood of this calamity was not deprived of instruction, for Mrs. ALONZO TORREY opened her own house, and for three months the scholars were taught by her. During the interval a frame school-building of more extended proportions was being constructed, and on its completion Mrs. TORREY with her little band removed thither, and for four months longer filled the role of teacher. The new building was erected on section 24, opposite the old site, which was on the corner of section 23. In this school-house the early religious services were held. The following were the names of the first scholars: ALBERT TORREY, ORLANDO SANBORN, APHA SANBORN, ORMINDA SANBORN, MARY JANE SANBORN, SARAH ANN SANBORN, ISAAC KELSEY, ALMIRA KELSEY, LORINDA KELSEY, CHARLES PHILLIPS, EMILY PHILLIPS, LYDIA COLBY, CLARK TORREY, LEVI TORREY, MARY TORREY, JOHN TORREY, ALMON TORREY, WILLIAM BOOMER, and PLINY BOOMER. Soon after this school-houses were erected in other portions of the township, and at the present date capacious structures are seen dotting its territory at very short intervals. The mortuary record of these early years of the town- ship history was a matter of congratulation to the settlers. Good health and cheerful spirits everywhere abounded, and, as a remarkable fact, it may be stated that in the TORREY settlement no death occurred for a period of twelve years, the first remembered being that of a son of LYSANDER PHIL- LIPS, in 1848. The earliest death in the township, as nearly as can be ascertained after very diligent inquiry, was that of a Mrs. GREENFIELD, who lived on section 5. CORNELIUS MARS' death occurred in 1839, and was among the earliest. Miss SALLIE, youngest daughter of Capt. BENJAMIN BOOMER, died in 1846, and her death has been stated to the writer as the first, but it is altogether likely that Mrs. GREENFIELD'S occurred prior to either of the others, probably in 1838. The earliest marriage, as stated by ALBERT TORREY, was that of HORACE BOOMER to SAMANTHA, daughter of HORACE BRISTOL. Mrs. ALONZO TORREY having been accustomed to attend devine service, and finding no opportunity to gratify her desire at home, determined to go to Flint. Her first inten- tion was to yoke the oxen, but on further consideration she determined to walk. Rev. JAMES McALESTER, who performed the functions of a local preacher and had just moved into the village, saw her pass and determined to pay his respects to the new and church-going family. Taking his gun one morning, and throwing on a large gray overcoat, he sauntered towards their log house. Arriving at the door the hostess saw the large coat, and supposing it covered a wild Indian exclaimed, "There's an Indian! don't bid him come in." The visitor, however, proved harmless, and received a hearty welcome. He arranged to hold service at Mr. TORREY'S house on successive Sabbaths, and afterwards in the school-house. This occurred in 1836, and may be regarded as the first religious gathering in the township. JEREMIAH KELSEY is another pioneer whose coming dates to early in 1836. He located on section 25, having purchased 160 acres, which his industry and perseverance very soon rendered productive. DEWITT C. CURTIS, who now resides on a farm on section 11, arrived with his father, COMFORT CURTIS, in 1837, -- being then fifteen years of age, -- and resided with him on a tract described as the east half of the southwest quarter of section 8. His brother DAVID, who is one of the representative men of the township, came the following spring. Capt. BENJAMIN BOOMER located about the same time 80 acres on section 25. He followed nautical pursuits and spent little time upon his land, but was highly esteemed as a good citizen and a genial gentleman. HORACE BRISTOL purchased in March, 1838, of THOMAS L.L. BRENT, 80 acres on section 26. He resided upon it for many years, but is now living in the city. JAMES W. CRONK'S first purchase in the township bears the date of May 3, 1837. He came from New York State, and early settled in Macomb County in this State. While there he heard of the advantageous purchases of land which might be made at the Grand Traverse, and immediately wrote his father, Col. JAMES CRONK, who had been prospecting in the northern part of the State, suggesting that they make a joint purchase of 640 acres. The elder CRONK at once responded to his son's request, and came immediately to Flint, but on the day of his arrival was taken ill. After lingering three days, he died at JOHN TODD'S tavern near the river; his son, meanwhile, having been engaged in preparations to remove his family from Macomb County. It is proper here for the historian to correct a popular error which has obtained credence, that the senior CRONK resided in Flint for some years before his death and participated actively in the building up of the settlement. Such are not the facts. He was a total stranger in the neighborhood, and never entered the county until three days before his death. He was buried on the site of the present Presbyterian church, and some years later his remains were disinterred by DANIEL O'SULLIVAN and re- buried in the township, on the farm of his grandson, WALTER J. CRONK. JAMES W. CRONK, meanwhile came on and made the pro- jected purchse of 640 acres, embracing some of the ground now covered by the city. Soon after, through the instigation of some interested parties in the East, a suit was begun, in be- half of the estate of JAMES CRONK, to recover a supposed in- terest in this tract. JAMES W. CRONK, being alone as contestant in this suit and with every prospect of being discomfited in the contest, prevailed upon certain Detroit parties, Messrs. MORRISON & DUBOIS, to purchase the land. Page 189 After this event, JAMES W., desiring to make the county of Genesee his home, entered, in the year 1837, 160 acres of land in the township of Flint, on sections 7 and 8. With his arrival dates the first clearing of ground in the present CRONK settle- ment limits. These facts are obtained from his grandson, WALTER J. CRONK, who now resides in the city of Flint, and is an exten- sive land owner in the township. JAMES W. CRONK has left a reputation as a keen lover of the hunter's life, and in his rambles about the country in search of land his trusty gun was ever at his side. His aim was unerring, and many choice saddles of venison, and wild turkeys, were among the spoils of the chase. Mr. CRONK had a favorite dog that often accompanied him on these occasions. A morning's hunt resulted in the killing of four splendid deer, which were piled together near the spot now occupied by the residence of Hon. SUMNER HOWARD in the suburbs of Flint. The next morning a sleigh was drawn to this spot for the purpose of bringing home the game. The morning was as stormy one, the air being filled with heavy flakes of snow. While busily engaged, Mr. CRONK discerned, through the storm, an animal approaching him having the appearance of a wolf. He raised his gun, which was synonymous with death to the victim, and, to his great dismay, learned soon after that his favorite dog lay writhing in agony. The animal lived some hours, but the aim of the sportsman had been too certain to hope for life. On another occasion Mr. CRONK was in the woods, and encountered a splendid specimen of what is known as the "spike-horn buck," whose horns are constructed especially for defense, and whose ferocity when driven to bay makes them exceedingly dangerous as a foe. The animal, after being wounded, dropped motionless, and his victor, thinking him dead or dying, approached and drew his knife across his throat. As the blood spirted from the wound the animal revived, and at once sprang upon his pursuer. In an instant he was thrown upon his back, while the buck made a des- perate charge upon him. His only possible defense was in the use of his feet, with which he was able to ward off the attack. This method of warfare was fast depleting his strength, and with every renewed charge his legs were being mangled and torn. In his almost helpless condition the buck was fast gaining ground, when a dog belonging to Mr. CRONK appeared upon the scene in an opportune moment, and grappled with the buck. In a moment more the rifle had ended the contest. Mr. CRONK died while doing service in the Mexican war. His widow still survives, and resides in the city of Flint, main- taining the old-time hospitality her husband was wont to exer- cise; and their son, WALTER L., is a successful farmer in the western portion of the township. MARVIN B. PERSONS came a year later than Mr. CRONK, and for twelve months made his home with him, assisting him in clearing the farm. Later he effected an arrangement with THOMAS L. L. BRENT, a large land-owner, to clear a tract for him in the pre- sent township of Flushing, and received as compensation for this service 80 acres of his present farm, which he immediately pro- ceeded to improve. He erected a log shanty, and subsequently married and made his home upon this tract. Since that time he has added to its dimensions, and he is now one of the repre- sentative men of the township. WILLIAM VAN SLYKE came from Genesee Co., N.Y., in 1837, having originally entered land in Richfield, which he exchanged for 80 acres on section 35, entered by WILLIAM STANARD. Mr. VAN SLYKE brought with him a superior span of horses, but it was almost impossible to obtain grain for them, and oxen were better adapted to the wants of that early period, he disposed of them in Pontiac, at a considerable sacrifice. Mrs. VAN SLYKE, who still resides in the township, has a keen memory of facts per- taining to her first residence in Michigan. The snakes were so numerous that they almost drove her family from the first log house occupied by them. It seemed impossible to build a house so securely as to make it impregnable to these marauders. PHILIP BETTESWORTH located, in 1836, 99 acres on section 11, and soon became prominent in the various interests connected with the township. J. D. EGGLESTON removed from Orleans Co., N.Y., in 1837, and took possession of 120 acres his father had given him on section 17, this being a portion of 400 acres purchased by JOHN A. EGGLES- TON on sections 17 and 20. At the time of his coming, the country was almost entirely un- settled, thick woods covering the land now marked by well culti- vated farms. The nearest neighbor was JAMES W. CRONK, who was two and a half miles distant. When Mr. EGGLESTON arrived he had two yoke of oxen and one team of horses. He crossed the Flint River in a canoe, which was drawn by the oxen. He afterwards removed to his present farm of 168 acres. JOHN THORNE was among the pioneers of an early date, and found little more than a wilderness to greet his coming. He established himself on section 32, and has resided there since. JABEZ BLACKINTON first settled in Oakland County, and in 1837 located in the township. He resides on section 15, as does CHARLES BLACKINTON. The founder of what is known as the DYE settlement is RUBEN DYE, who came in 1843, and purchased 40 acres on section 20. This had already been improved, and a log house built upon it. He afterwards added another 40 acres, and later still another, of improved land. His sons established themselves around him and populated the settlement, - hence the name. F. A. BEGOLE removed to the township in 1838, choosing a farm in the extreme southwest corner, on section 31. He occupies a position of influence, and is successful in the vocation which he follows. ANSON GILBERT came early and purchased 174 acres on section 6. His son now occupies the farm. EDWARD TUPPER located on section 29, and his brothers MARVIN and JOHN located on the northeast portion of section 32. They have each followed agricultural pursuits, and won a reputation as successful farmers. A. HERRICK came early to the southern portion of the township, and established himself upon a farm. He is also well known as a local preacher. ROBERT P. AITKIN settled in Flint in 1842, and purchased of GEORGE M. DEWEY, who was acting as agent for Page 190 T. L. L. BRENT in the sale of lands, 80 acres on section 8. Mr. AITKIN is known as a successful farmer and a public-spirited gentleman. His election for years in succession to the office of supervisor, bears witness to the esteem in which he is held by the town's people. A portion of MORGAN CHAPMAN'S farm lies in the township of Flint, on the line between it and Clayton. ALFRED GIFFORD was an early settler, having chosen a tract embracing 120 acres in the northeast quarter of section 8. CORNELIUS LANE located 40 acres on section 3 in 1840. S. SELLERS purchased 44 acres on section 2. THOMAS DALY came very early, and is spoken of as a leading spirit in all the enterprises connected with the first settle- ment of the township. J. SALLY was also a pioneer, and im- proved 30 acres on section 11. He was employed by CHAUNCEY S. PAYNE, of Flint, as were also P. McCLOSKEY, JAMES GILLESPIE, and M. GILLESPIE, who all came from New York City. JAMES and ANDREW FANCHEON located on sections 16 and 17, and THOMAS D. PARTRIDGE came as early as 1839, and established himself in the township, while NATHAN J. RUBLEE was still an earlier settler. JASPER BRISTOL came in 1837, A. GOODNER the year previous, and B. B. KREWSON in 1844. They are all successful farmers. ELIAS J. BUMP located in 1841, and has recently removed to the city, having gained a competence by his labors. T. H. NESBITT moved from Cayuga Co., N.Y., in the spring of 1854, and purchased the southwest quarter of section 23, com- prising 140 acres. Only 25 acres of this was improved. He introduced the first harrow into the township, which was made to order by JAMES McALESTER, of Flint. When Mr. NESBITT came, most of the marketing was done on foot, butter and eggs often being carried many miles by the pedestrians. The year 1842 witnessed the advent of HIRAM HALL, who pur- chased a farm of 80 acres on section 23. He afterwards located on the southeast quarter of section 26. His son, ANSON HALL, married a daughter of Capt. BENJAMIN BOOMER, and now owns 165 acres on sections 26 and 35. JAMES CARTER purchased on sections 4 and 9, and WILLIAM BOUCHER settled on section 20. JAMES CHASE located on section 11. The surface of the township is undulating, comprising some fine stretches of level land, varied by gentle declivities, which give variety to the landscape and make it one of the most attractive townships in the county. The soil is a mixture of clay and sand, and generally of good quality, though varying in localities, and affording a bountiful crop to the farmer. The streams of water which traverse its surface are the Flint River and Swartz Creek, the first of which passes through the city, flows through the northern portion of the township, and passes out near the northwest corner. Swartz Creek rises in the township of Gaines, and enters the southwest corner of the township of Flint, meandering in a northeasterly direction, flowing into the Thread, and eventually into the Flint River. The Chicago and Northeastern Railroad enters the southwest corner, and runs northeast to the city of Flint. The town-house, which is a convenient and accessible build- ing, erected for the purpose of holding elections and meetings pertaining to the business of the township, is located on section 22. The township cemetery embraces a tract of land purchased from the farms of MARVIN PERSONS and JAMES W. CRONK for the purpose. It is inclosed with a neat and substantial wire fence and ornamented with well-grown shade trees. The many beautiful marble slabs which it contains bear witness to the tender mem- mories which departed friends have left behind. BRISTOL METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. The Bristol Methodist Episcopal church is so named from the fact that it is within the boundaries of the Bristol settlement and embraces among the congregation a large number from this immediate locality. It is a wooden structure, and was built in 1872, by subscription, the only church in the immediate locality not being sufficiently large to meet the wants of the growing congregation. The first pastor was Rev. Mr. MOSHER, who remained one year, and was followed by Rev. Mr. GOSS. His successor was Rev. Mr. SEELEY, who was followed by the Rev. Mr. GOSS, the present pastor, now (1879) filling a second term. This church was formerly a part of the TORREY class, and was connected with the South Flint circuit, but is now a part of the Swartz Creek circuit. TORREY METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH In 1836, Rev. JAMES McALESTER, whose accidental acquaintance with the neighborhood has already been alluded to, formed a class and held service at the house of ALONZO TORREY. The mem- bers of this class embraced the following persons: JESSE TORREY, EUNICE KELSEY, MELISSA TORREY, ORISSA TORREY, JEREMIAH KELSEY, and JANE BRISTOL. After a school-house was erected, a meeting of the class was held each Sabbath and preaching once a fortnight, the distance from the residence of the pastor making it inconvenient to hold service more fre- quently. The first circuit preacher who ministered to the spiritual wants of the little flock was Rev. LUTHER D. WHITNEY, who held services during the years 1838-39, and the last pastor was Rev. JOHN McELDOWNY. A year since the TORREY class was attached to the Court Street charge, and since that time there has been no regular service. The church building was erected in 1852, and is an unpre- tentious structue of wood. The records indicate that the first trustees were JESSE TORREY, JAMES ELLIS, R. CUMMINGS, O. SANBORN, ALBERT TORREY, ASA TORREY, and ALONZO TORREY. It was attached to the Grand Blanc circuit at that time, and the preacher in charge was WILLIAM BLADES. The records are not sufficiently complete to enable a consecutive history of the church from that time to be presented. ==========================================================================