Minnie married Harvey Edward Moore, son of Wilson F. Moore and Martha Armington Williams, on 22-May-1904 at Boone County, Indiana.

      Aaron Van Cleave was born in 1745 at New Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey. He was the son of Capt. Aaron Van Cleave and Rachel Schenck. Aaron married Rachel Brent. Aaron Van Cleave died in Dec-1813 at Loretta, Washington County now Marion County, Kentucky. Aaron was buried at Thomas Church Cemetery near, Loretta, Washington County now Marion County, Kentucky.
     He resided at at Kentucky in 1785.

      Thisgen Van Cleave was born in 1735 at New Jersey. He was the son of Capt. Aaron Van Cleave and Rachel Schenck.

      Cornelius Van Cleave was born in 1737 at New Jersey. He was the son of Capt. Aaron Van Cleave and Rachel Schenck.
     Cornelius Van Cleave was also known as Cory Van Cleve.

      Dickson G. Welch was born on 5-Jan-1816 at Pennsylvania. Dickson married Rachael Amanda Van Cleave, daughter of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 23-Nov-1837 at Boone County, Indiana. Dickson G. Welch died on 22-Dec-1842 at Boone County, Indiana, at age 26.

      Joseph Jackson Rumford was born on 22-Jan-1821 at Gloucester County, New Jersey. Joseph married Rachael Amanda Van Cleave, daughter of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 31-Aug-1854 at Boone County, Indiana.

      Alexander L. Welch was born on 19-Sep-1838 at Boone County, Indiana. He was the son of Dickson G. Welch and Rachael Amanda Van Cleave. Alexander married Mary Elizabeth Dicks on 26-Dec-1865. Alexander L. Welch died on 13-Mar-1918 at Lebanon, Boone County, Indiana, at age 79.

      Mary Elizabeth Dicks was born on 4-Nov-1844 at Indiana. Mary married Alexander L. Welch, son of Dickson G. Welch and Rachael Amanda Van Cleave, on 26-Dec-1865. Mary Elizabeth Dicks died on 17-Jul-1923 at age 78.

      Orrah Belle Welch was born on 24-Dec-1866 at Boone County, Indiana. She was the daughter of Alexander L. Welch and Mary Elizabeth Dicks. Orrah married Wallace Haller on 21-Dec-1887 at Boone County, Indiana. Orrah Belle Welch died on 28-Jan-1945 at Madison, Illinois, at age 78.

     Wallace married Orrah Belle Welch, daughter of Alexander L. Welch and Mary Elizabeth Dicks, on 21-Dec-1887 at Boone County, Indiana.

      Lucinda Stillings was born in 1822 at North Carolina. Lucinda married Van Swearington Van Cleave, son of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 9-Nov-1843 at Jefferson County, Indiana. Lucinda Stillings died in 1884 at Ottumwa, Iowa.

      David Henry Van Cleave was born in Jul-1850 at Decatur County, Indiana. He was the son of Van Swearington Van Cleave and Lucinda Stillings. David married Matilda Southern on 12-Apr-1874 at Wapello County, Iowa.

      Emma V. Van Cleave was born in 1858 at Indiana. She was the daughter of Van Swearington Van Cleave and Lucinda Stillings. Emma married Thomas Wingate Anderson. Emma V. Van Cleave died in 1945 at Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California.

      Charles Franklin Van Cleave was born in 1866 at Wapello County, Iowa. He was the son of Van Swearington Van Cleave and Lucinda Stillings. Charles Franklin Van Cleave died on 13-Nov-1892 at Ottumwa, Iowa.

      Matilda Southern was born in Nov-1862 at Wisconsin. Matilda married David Henry Van Cleave, son of Van Swearington Van Cleave and Lucinda Stillings, on 12-Apr-1874 at Wapello County, Iowa.

      Blance Van Cleave was born in 1876 at Ottumwa, Iowa. She was the daughter of David Henry Van Cleave and Matilda Southern. Blance married Thomas Flint on 25-Dec-1893 at Wapello County, Iowa.

      Gertrude Van Cleave was born in Feb-1881 at Ottumwa, Iowa. She was the daughter of David Henry Van Cleave and Matilda Southern.

      Hattie C. Van Cleave was born in Feb-1883 at Ottumwa, Iowa. She was the daughter of David Henry Van Cleave and Matilda Southern.

      Charles Van Cleave was born in May-1885 at Ottumwa, Iowa. He was the son of David Henry Van Cleave and Matilda Southern.

      Joseph V. Van Cleave was born in Aug-1887 at Ottumwa, Iowa. He was the son of David Henry Van Cleave and Matilda Southern.

      Frankie Van Cleave was born in Mar-1890 at Ottumwa, Iowa. He was the son of David Henry Van Cleave and Matilda Southern.

      Eugene Van Cleave was born in Jul-1893 at Ottumwa, Iowa. He was the son of David Henry Van Cleave and Matilda Southern.

      Hazel E. Van Cleave was born in Jun-1897 at Ottumwa, Iowa. She was the daughter of David Henry Van Cleave and Matilda Southern.

      Floyd Van Cleave was born in Oct-1898 at Missouri. He was the son of David Henry Van Cleave and Matilda Southern.

     Thomas married Blance Van Cleave, daughter of David Henry Van Cleave and Matilda Southern, on 25-Dec-1893 at Wapello County, Iowa.

      Ephraim Hayward was born in 1823. Ephraim married Catherine Thorne Van Cleave, daughter of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 2-Apr-1842 at Boone County, Indiana. Ephraim Hayward died in 1855 at Indiana.

      Sarah Ann Anderson was born on 22-Jul-1843 at Lexington, Fayette County, Kentucky. Sarah married Jesse James Cardwell Van Cleave, son of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 3-Mar-1859 at Davis County, Iowa. Sarah Ann Anderson died on 10-Jul-1887 at Lyon County, Kansas, at age 43.

      Thomas Wingate Anderson was born on 7-Feb-1856 at Davis County, Iowa. Thomas married Emma V. Van Cleave, daughter of Van Swearington Van Cleave and Lucinda Stillings.

     William married Catherine Thorne Van Cleave, daughter of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 4-Nov-1857 at Boone County, Indiana.

      Susannah Naomi Hayward was born in Feb-1843 at Boone County, Indiana. She was the daughter of Ephraim Hayward and Catherine Thorne Van Cleave. Susannah married Nelson John Gillam on 26-Dec-1859 at Boone County, Indiana.

      John Harry Harris was born on 25-Aug-1827 at Indiana. He was the son of James Langley Harris and Elizabeth Strepy. John married Susannah Van Cleave, daughter of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 6-Jan-1846 at Montgomery County, Indiana. John Harry Harris died on 25-Apr-1864 at Mark Mills, Arkansas, at age 36.

      Elizabeth Harris was born in 1846 at Indiana. She was the daughter of John Harry Harris and Susannah Van Cleave.

      David S. Harris was born in 1847 at Indiana. He was the son of John Harry Harris and Susannah Van Cleave.

      James N. Harris was born on 27-Jun-1853 at Indiana. He was the son of John Harry Harris and Susannah Van Cleave. James N. Harris died on 27-Apr-1854 at Hopewell Cemetery, Boone County, Indiana.

      Frances E. Harris was born in 1858 at Iowa. She was the daughter of John Harry Harris and Susannah Van Cleave.

      Wilford D. Harris was born in May-1860 at Davis County, Iowa. He was the son of John Harry Harris and Susannah Van Cleave.

      Mary Louise King was born on 8-May-1830 at Indiana. Mary married Peter Cameron Van Cleave, son of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 12-Oct-1848 at Boone County, Indiana. Mary Louise King died on 3-May-1857 at Boone County, Indiana, at age 26.

      Loruhama Irwin was born on 20-Jan-1837 at Tippecanoe County, Indiana. Loruhama married Peter Cameron Van Cleave, son of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 20-Oct-1857 at Boone County, Indiana. Loruhama Irwin died on 29-May-1920 at El Dorado County, Kansas, at age 83.

      John Lowry Jolly was born in 1828 at Lawrence County, Indiana. He was the son of Samuel Jolly and Ursula Berdan. John married Matilda Hester Ann Van Cleave, daughter of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 13-Nov-1851 at Boone County, Indiana. John Lowry Jolly died on 2-Nov-1862 at Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana.
     He began military service on 30-Aug-1862; as a Private in Company E, 63rd Regiment.

      Joseph Austin was born in 1826 at Michigan. Joseph married Matilda Hester Ann Van Cleave, daughter of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 22-Oct-1866 at Nebraska. Joseph married Matilda Hester Ann Van Cleave, daughter of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 22-Oct-1866 at Boone County, Indiana. Joseph Austin died on 13-Mar-1878 at Nebraska.

      Charlotte Perkins was born on 6-Aug-1838 at Rush County, Indiana. She was the daughter of Jesse S. Perkins and Nancy Katheine Tucker. Charlotte married Rev. David Samuel Van Cleave, son of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 28-Jun-1853 at Boone County, Indiana. Charlotte Perkins died on 19-Apr-1919 at Greene County, Iowa, at age 80.
     

      Rebecca Ann Pressley was born on 13-Aug-1841 at Dallas City, Iowa. Rebecca married William Harmon Van Cleave, son of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, in 1858 at Iowa. Rebecca Ann Pressley died on 20-May-1878 at Jefferson County, Nebraska, at age 36. She died on 20-May-1879 at Diller, Jefferson County, Nebraska, at age 37.
     She was also known as Rebecca Ann Presley.

     Margaret Burr died at Emporia, Lyon County, Kansas. Margaret married William Harmon Van Cleave, son of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen.

      Louisa C. Emery was born on 9-Oct-1853 at Johnson County, Iowa. Louisa married William Harmon Van Cleave, son of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 29-Oct-1888 at Holt County, Nebraska. Louisa C. Emery died on 4-Apr-1936 at Holt County, Nebraska, at age 82.

      David Samuel Van Cleave was born in 1863 at Iowa. He was born on 3-Mar-1873 at Iowa. He was the son of William Harmon Van Cleave and Rebecca Ann Pressley. David Samuel Van Cleave died on 7-Jul-1928 at Baker, Baker County, Oregon, at age 55.
     He was also known as David Van Cleve.

      Anna Mary Van Cleave was born on 27-Oct-1866 at Van Meter, Dallas County, Iowa. She was the daughter of William Harmon Van Cleave and Rebecca Ann Pressley. Anna married Michael Englehaupt, son of Michael Englehaupt and Anna Mary Schellenberger, on 20-Nov-1884 at O'Neill, Holt County, Nebraska. Anna Mary Van Cleave died on 13-Jun-1938 at O'Neill, Holt County, Nebraska, at age 71.

      Michael Englehaupt was born on 13-Jun-1862 at Bavaria, Germany. He was the son of Michael Englehaupt and Anna Mary Schellenberger. Michael married Anna Mary Van Cleave, daughter of William Harmon Van Cleave and Rebecca Ann Pressley, on 20-Nov-1884 at O'Neill, Holt County, Nebraska. Michael Englehaupt died on 30-May-1943 at Chambers, Holt County, Nebraska, at age 80.
     He was also known as Michael Anton Englehaupt.

      Talitha C. Willhite was born on 23-Jul-1837 at Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa. Talitha married Benjamin Thomas Van Cleave, son of David Van Cleave and Rachel Swearingen, on 22-Apr-1855 at Washington County, Iowa. Talitha C. Willhite died on 26-Nov-1896 at Washington County, Iowa, at age 59.

      Ekilles Fleetwood Van Cleave was born on 31-Jan-1856 at Washington County, Iowa. He was the son of Benjamin Thomas Van Cleave and Talitha C. Willhite. Ekilles married Anna Lositta Ayres in 1875. Ekilles married Audra May Moyer on 10-Oct-1906 at Benkelman, Dundy County, Nebraska. Ekilles Fleetwood Van Cleave died on 19-Feb-1951 at Chase County, Nebraska, at age 95.

      Anna Lositta Ayres was born on 26-Dec-1858 at Washington County, Iowa. Anna married Ekilles Fleetwood Van Cleave, son of Benjamin Thomas Van Cleave and Talitha C. Willhite, in 1875. Anna Lositta Ayres died on 1-Sep-1903 at Dundy County, Nebraska, at age 44.

      Audra May Moyer was born in 1880. Audra married Ekilles Fleetwood Van Cleave, son of Benjamin Thomas Van Cleave and Talitha C. Willhite, on 10-Oct-1906 at Benkelman, Dundy County, Nebraska. Audra May Moyer died on 6-Jan-1944 at Wauneta, Chase County, Nebraska.

      Herbert Eugene Williams was born on 27-Jan-1926 at Lebanon, Boone County, Indiana. He was the son of Walter Terrel Williams and Ella Gail Byroads. Herbert Eugene Williams died on 31-Jan-1926 at Center Cemetery, Lebanon, Boone County, Indiana.

      Viola Haines was born on 24-Sep-1912 at Anderson, Madison County, Indiana. Viola married Basel Elbert Williams, son of Walter Terrel Williams and Ella Gail Byroads, on 16-Apr-1929 at Anderson, Madison County, Indiana. Viola Haines died on 5-Apr-1940 at Anderson, Madison County, Indiana, at age 27.

      Jesse Cardwell Van Cleave was born on 28-Feb-1878 at Lyon County, Kansas. He was the son of Jesse James Cardwell Van Cleave and Sarah Ann Anderson. Jesse married Zylpha May Crumley, daughter of George W. Crumley and Martilia Ellen Preston, on 7-May-1900 at Emporia, Lyon County, Kansas. Jesse Cardwell Van Cleave died on 12-Jan-1953 at Shelton, Mason County, Washington, at age 74.
     

      Sarah Ellen Van Cleave was born on 12-Jul-1901 at Lyon County, Kansas. She was the daughter of Jesse Cardwell Van Cleave and Zylpha May Crumley. Sarah married Carl Paul Wenzel on 18-Jan-1918 at Seattle, King County, Washington. Sarah Ellen Van Cleave died on 17-Jun-1959 at Seattle, King County, Washington, at age 57. Sarah was buried at Washington Memorial Cemetery, Seattle, King County, Washington.

     Leo married an unknown person. Leo married (Unknown) (Unknown). Leo Carl Wenzel was born in 1918. He was the son of Carl Paul Wenzel and Sarah Ellen Van Cleave. Leo Carl Wenzel died in 1999.

     Allan Ray Wenzel was the son of Leo Carl Wenzel and (Unknown) (Unknown).

      Ruth Munson was born on 10-Jul-1746 at Morristown, Morris County, New Jersey. She was the daughter of Samuel Munson and Mary Allen. Ruth married Benjamin Samuel Van Cleave, son of Capt. Aaron Van Cleave and Rachel Schenck, on 11-Jul-1765 at North Carolina. Ruth married Benjamin Samuel Van Cleave, son of Capt. Aaron Van Cleave and Rachel Schenck, on 14-Jul-1765 at Rowan County, North Carolina. Ruth Munson died on 5-Dec-1823 at Shelbyville, Shelby County, Kentucky, at age 77.
     She was also known as Ruth Manson. She was also known as Ruth L. Monson.

      Ralph Van Cleave was born on 18-Mar-1784. He was the son of Benjamin Samuel Van Cleave and Ruth Munson. Ralph married Elizabeth Stubbins on 25-Feb-1805 at Shelby County, Kentucky. Ralph married Elizabeth Stubbins on 27-Feb-1805. Ralph Van Cleave died on 2-Feb-1855 at Browns Valley, Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 70.

      Elizabeth Stubbins was born on 12-Feb-1789. Elizabeth married Ralph Van Cleave, son of Benjamin Samuel Van Cleave and Ruth Munson, on 25-Feb-1805 at Shelby County, Kentucky. Elizabeth married Ralph Van Cleave, son of Benjamin Samuel Van Cleave and Ruth Munson, on 27-Feb-1805. Elizabeth Stubbins died on 23-Nov-1848 at age 59.

      Rev. Jonathan Van Cleave was born on 13-Dec-1805 at Shelby County, Kentucky. He was the son of Ralph Van Cleave and Elizabeth Stubbins. Jonathan married Elizabeth Van Cleave, daughter of Aaron Van Cleave and Elizabeth Griffin, on 6-Sep-1827 at Shelby County, Kentucky. Rev. Jonathan Van Cleave died on 5-Mar-1900 at Brown Twp., Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 94. Jonathan was buried at Old Hickory Cemetery, Montgomery County, Indiana.
     

"ELDER JONATHAN VANCLEAVE"

"The Patriarch of the Old School Baptist Church Passes to His Reward"

"Elder Jonathan Vancleave is dead. He was taken ill with the grip last week and grew steadily worse until death came Monday at five o'clock p.m. at his home nine miles southwest of town. He was unconscious most of Monday, but shortly before the end he became conscious and recognized his family. His demise closes the career if one of the most remarkable and intense personalites in the history of Montgomery county.

"Jonathan came to this county in 1826 and entered the 100 acre farm he died on. In the low rambling old house is still treasured the government deed in parchment bearing the sinature of John Quincy Adams. There is also held the deed to the farm entered by the Elder's father-in-law Aaron Vancleave, (the elder married a distant cousin), who entered his farm in 1833. This grant bears the signature of Andrew Jackson, who is the political saint of the Vancleave family, and for whom the first vote of Elder Vancleave was cast.

"His earliest recollections were of the big Baptist meetings in the bluegrass woods of Kentucky, but not until he was fourteen years of age [1820] did he become convicted of his sin. And for a number of years after that he wrestled with his lot, not reaching the mountain top of triumph until 1840 [abt same time his Uncle Samuel moved from KY to IN-see below], when 'he felt the spirit of the Lord come upon him like a dove' in the Indian Creek Church which had been erected in 1832 by Elder Steppleton, Elder John Lee and Randall Davis. Bonam Kester was pastor when Jonathan felt that he was at last gloriously converted and saved and he [Elder Kester] soon gave place in the pulpit to the new convert who entered a pastorate of over sixty years, just now closed by his death. A night or so after his conversion, Jonathan had a remarkable vision sent to him [see above], as he verily believed, by the Lord, the object of which was to present to him his duty to enter the Christian ministry. He did so at once, and while he was not formally ordained until 1849, he became in fact the pastor of the Indian Creek church immediately after his conversion and a most faithful shepherd did he prove. ... In 1896 he stated to a representative of The Journal that he had averagd three sermons a week, exclusive of funeral sermons, since 1840. And Elder Vancleave did not preach sermonettes. In the old school Baptist church, a three hour sermon is not a long one. The elder never received a cent for his services as a minister and had a profound and deep-seated contempt for 'a hireling ministry'. He would always quote on this subject the words 'a hireling fleeth and careth not for the sheep'. He made his living by farming, and in the early days by acting as a gunsmith for the rural community--an important trade forty or fifty yaers ago. His work nowise interfered with his effectiveness in the pulpit for he regarded it as wrong to prepare for a sermon. He spoke on the inspiration of the moment and prefaced his sermon with the statememt that the text would be found somewhere between the covers of the Good Book. ... He believed and preached the doctrine of election and a literal hell and in no church in which he preached was there ever such an abomination as instrumental music. 'We sing from the hymn book', said he, 'and the sound goes up to God from the souls of those who sing and not from squeaky music machines.'

"The elder was a Democrat among Democrats, and was proud of the fact that he had never scratched his ticket. He lived and died a sincere believer in states rights, and during the [Civil] war, he preached and prayed against the war with a religious fervor. He was bitterly opposed to slavery, but his sympathies during the war were with the south on the doctrine of state's sovereignty.

"The wife of Elder Vancleave died some years ago and of the six children born to them, four still live, Mrs. William Coons, Mrs. Mark [sic] Badgely [either Mrs. Mark Skelton or Mrs. Martin Badgley?] , Ralph Vancleave and Ransom Vancleave, the last named now living at the old homestead. Two children, David and Aaron are dead."

exerpts from a Mar 1900 issue of The Crawfordsville Journal Weekly.



JONATHAN VANCLEAVE, the venerable and eloquent pioneer preacher whose early round of ministerial duties called him to speak the word throughout Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky and Indiana, located in Montgomery County, Ind., more than three score years ago and is to day an honored resident of Brown Township. Aged in years, he is yet well preserved in mind and body and strong in the service of the " Master." Ordained in 1849, and ever since with never failing zeal engaging in religious work, our subject can to-day deliver a sermon whose arguments are as clear, forcible and persuasive as they were fully forty years ago.

Born in Shelby County, Ky., in 1805, the Rev. Jonathan Vancleave may claim direct descent from an ancestry of brave and hardy patriots. His great-grandfather, Aaron Vancleave, a man of strong character and earnest purpose, emigrated from Holland to America before the colonists had en gaged in their determined struggle for independ­ence from the mother country. Stirring events, however, were near at hand; the whole country was ablaze with indignation, the colonies joined in a federal union and the war of the Revolution was declared. Actuated by stern resolve and ardent enthusiasm. seven stalwart sons of the old Hollander entered the ranks and bravely fought for God and liberty. Two of these patriotic defenders of our national existence served in the War of 1812.

The Vancleaves settled in an early day in Kentucky and the five elder sons of old Aaron Vancleave Jonathan, William, Ralph, Aaron and Benjamin made their home within the borders of that state, but one son located in Ohio and another in Virginia. The only sister of these seven energetic, hardy men was Jane, who married Squire Boone, the brother and devoted companion of the famous old hunter and Indian scout, Daniel Boone, whose wife and daughters were the first white women who ever stood upon the banks of the Ken tucky river. While Daniel Boone and his brother were on a hunting excursion Squire Boone was killed and scalped by the Indians. Amid the perilous and exciting scenes of those pioneer days upon the borders of frontier life, the father of our subject, Ralph Vancleave, was born; his wife Elizabeth Stebbins, was a native of Puritanical New England and a woman of rare character and ability; both parents were deeply imbued with the spirit of religion and were active members of the Baptist Church.

Jonathan Vancleave, their son and our subject, was born in Shelby County, Ky., in 1805. He was the eldest in a family of seven children and was reared in his early home. In 1827 he married Elizabeth Vancleave, a daughter of Aaron Vancleave, a distant relative of the family into which the young wife now entered. The newly wedded couple journeyed at once to Montgomery County, Ind., and settled in the dense woods upon a farm, where they now reside. The Indians occupied a large body of land near by, but the newcomers were fearless and soon grew accustomed to their daily presence. Our subject has never enjoyed the advantages of even a primary school, but soon after his marriage his intelligent and cultivated wife taught him to read, and assisted by her earn­est efforts the husband gained a wide book of knowledge and a liberal education. Later, feeling himself called to preach "the Gospel," he made a preparation and was ordained in the county in 1840. There were present at the ordination, from various localities, near and remote, the delegates of seventeen different church organizations, all deeply interested in the addition to their religious forces of a powerful leader and representative of a family long noted for their zeal in church work.

The Rev. Jonathan Vancleave, as we have before mentioned, did not confine his ministerial duties to the state of Indiana but preached eloquently in all the neighboring states, and through his earnest sincerity and strength of purpose wrought much good and made for himself a last­ing remembrance in the religious work of this progressive century. Our subject and his faithful wife were blessed with a family of eight children, of whom seven are still living: David is a farmer of Parkersburg; Ralph is a carpenter in Elmdale; Ranson lives upon the old homestead; Adam is a resident of Trenton, Mo; Aaron is dead; Lacy is the wife of Mark Skelton; Jane married William Coons; Emily is the wife of Martin Badgley. Although fast nearing his eighty eighth birthday, the Rev. Jonathan Vancleave is still a hale and hearty man. His wife, the devoted sharer of his life work, died in 1888. Their children, useful, upright and highly respected, are living within easy distance, and thus the venerable pioneer is gliding down life's pathway surrounded by the loving care of sons and daughters and still enjoying the society of old friends and neighbors of more than a half century's acquaintance. Our subject owns a quarter section of fine land and carefully treasures the old parchment deed which fully records the right of his fall possession to the valuable acres therein described. The Vancleaves have almost always supported the Democratic party since its first formation, and our subject, while never neglecting his religious work to engage in politics, has ever done his duty at the polls as became him as a true American citizen and ardent advocate of reform and progress.

      Elizabeth Van Cleave was born on 10-Nov-1803 at Shelbyville, Shelby County, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Aaron Van Cleave and Elizabeth Griffin. Elizabeth married Rev. Jonathan Van Cleave, son of Ralph Van Cleave and Elizabeth Stubbins, on 6-Sep-1827 at Shelby County, Kentucky. Elizabeth Van Cleave died on 23-Apr-1886 at Browns Valley, Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 82. Elizabeth was buried at Old Hickory Cemetery, Montgomery County, Indiana.

      Ransom Van Cleave was born on 17-Dec-1838 at Browns Valley, Montgomery County, Indiana. He was the son of Rev. Jonathan Van Cleave and Elizabeth Van Cleave. Ransom married Susan Zerface, daughter of Adam Zerface and Sarah Rhinehart, on 28-Oct-1858 at Montgomery County, Indiana. Ransom Van Cleave died on 13-Mar-1923 at Waveland, Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 84. Ransom was buried at Indian Creek Cemetery, Montgomery County, Indiana.
     He was also known as Ransome Van Cleave. Waveland Independent, March 16, 1923 -- Ransom Vancleave, one of our oldest citizens, died on Tuesday evening at 11, at his home in New Market. He has been confined to a chair for 16 years from the effects of la grippe. Funeral services at the home this morning at 11 will be in charge of Rev. CL Airhart. Burial at Indian Creek cemetery.
=====
Waveland Independent, March 30, 1923 -- Seven o'clock on the night of the 13th of March, 1923, closed the door of time, by ending the pilgrimage of a good and upright man. A man whose entire life has been spent near where he was born and reared. Honesty was one of his leading characteristics that made his word as good as his bond to everyone with whom he had to do. In the field of industry he did a good part in building a comfortable home and raising a large family. In this his efforts were prompted by love of home, wife and children. Love moved his heart strengthened his hands to serve those whom he loved with cheerfulness and delight. Unselfishly he applied his energies to the ends justified by the true and fundamental principles upon which he built his temple of life and proved himself a true man. True as a husband, true as a father, true as a neighbor and friend. His love of good, and to do good was evidenced in administration of kindness friendship toward all men, and with all men he died in peace. That he was a Christian none doubted, because his devotion to the cause of the meek and lowly man of Gallilee in a well rounded out Christian life is an unsealed book, the pages of which are bright in well defined service covering aperiod of many years. As these years of service multiplied, his faith and hope increased in the Savior of men. To the last he believed in, and trusted the Christ whose presence was sweet in death. His public life as a church member was with the Indian Creek baptist church in which he had a cherished home for 45 years. His own home was open to his brethern and friends and many were entertained there. Such a man was Ransom Vancleave, s/o Jonathan & elizabeth, b. 27 Dec 1838. He was marr. to Sarah Zerface, Oct 28, 1858, to whom 13 children were born: William M, Big Cabine, Okla; George R, New Market; Mrs. Ellen Davis, Alamo ; Ada, Crawfordsville; Dr. Charles, deceased; Mrs. Betty Hardee, Browns Valley; Mrs. Amanda Hicks, Crawfordsville; Samuel W Waveland; Mrs. Eliza Stewart, Lafayette; Jesse G at home; Mrs. Evelyn Airhart, Crawfordsville; Jonathan, at home and Charles C of Lincoln, ill. When the hills in the West were gilded with the glow of the setting son, and the rainbow was painted on the storm clouds of death and the shadows were lengthening in the valley and the spirit of the good man, Ransom VanCleave, went to God. He was 84 years, 2 months and 16 days old. Surviving him are 12 children, 27 grandchildren; 44 great grandchildrem, one sister, Mrs. Emily Badgely, Muskegon, Mi; many relatives and all friends who knew him.

      Susan Zerface was born on 10-Apr-1837 at Ohio. She was the daughter of Adam Zerface and Sarah Rhinehart. Susan married Ransom Van Cleave, son of Rev. Jonathan Van Cleave and Elizabeth Van Cleave, on 28-Oct-1858 at Montgomery County, Indiana. Susan Zerface died on 4-Mar-1906 at Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 68. Susan was buried at Indian Creek Cemetery, Montgomery County, Indiana.
     She was also known as Sarah Surface.

      Adam Van Cleave was born on 18-Feb-1865 at New Market, Montgomery County, Indiana. He was the son of Ransom Van Cleave and Susan Zerface. Adam married Ida Frances Denman, daughter of Moses Hampton Denman and Jemima Lee, on 3-Sep-1891. Adam Van Cleave died on 30-Mar-1955 at age 90. Adam was buried at Alamo Cemetery, Ripley Twp., Montgomery County, Indiana.

      Ida Frances Denman was born in Sep-1864 at Ripley Twp., Montgomery County, Indiana. She was the daughter of Moses Hampton Denman and Jemima Lee. Ida married Adam Van Cleave, son of Ransom Van Cleave and Susan Zerface, on 3-Sep-1891. Ida Frances Denman died in 1900 at Montgomery County, Indiana.

      Beatrice Alma Van Cleve was born on 29-Aug-1897 at Ripley Twp., Montgomery County, Indiana. She was the daughter of Adam Van Cleave and Ida Frances Denman. Beatrice married Clyde Melvin, son of Charles H. Melvin and Rachel E. (Unknown), on 1-Jun-1916 at Crawfordsville, Montgomery County, Indiana. Beatrice Alma Van Cleve died on 26-Apr-1993 at Waynetown, Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 95.

      Edith Aline Van Cleve was born on 21-Sep-1899 at Ripley Twp., Montgomery County, Indiana. She was the daughter of Adam Van Cleave and Ida Frances Denman. Edith married Oscar E. Ackerson on 13-Dec-1921 at Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois. Edith Aline Van Cleve died on 23-Dec-1950 at Ripley Twp., Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 51.

      Clyde Melvin was born on 7-Oct-1894 at Garfield Twp., Finney County, Kansas. He was the son of Charles H. Melvin and Rachel E. (Unknown). Clyde married Beatrice Alma Van Cleve, daughter of Adam Van Cleave and Ida Frances Denman, on 1-Jun-1916 at Crawfordsville, Montgomery County, Indiana. Clyde Melvin died in Nov-1978 at Crawfordsville, Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 84.

      Oscar E. Ackerson was born on 23-Jan-1890. Oscar married Edith Aline Van Cleve, daughter of Adam Van Cleave and Ida Frances Denman, on 13-Dec-1921 at Danville, Vermilion County, Illinois. Oscar E. Ackerson died on 9-Jun-1994 at Goshen, Elkhart County, Indiana, at age 104.

      William Van Cleave was born on 23-Aug-1807. He was the son of Ralph Van Cleave and Elizabeth Stubbins. William Van Cleave died on 30-Sep-1838 at age 31.

      Lucy Van Cleave was born on 1-Apr-1810. She was the daughter of Ralph Van Cleave and Elizabeth Stubbins. Lucy Van Cleave died on 5-Apr-1824 at age 14.

      Jane Van Cleave was born on 14-Feb-1812. She was the daughter of Ralph Van Cleave and Elizabeth Stubbins. Jane Van Cleave died on 13-Jul-1846 at age 34.

      Malinda Van Cleave was born on 15-May-1814 at Shelbyville, Shelby County, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Ralph Van Cleave and Elizabeth Stubbins. Malinda married John Van Cleave, son of Aaron Van Cleave and Elizabeth Griffin, on 3-Sep-1835 at Montgomery County, Indiana. Malinda Van Cleave died on 4-Apr-1846 at Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 31. She died on 7-Apr-1846 at age 31.

      Nancy Van Cleave was born on 16-Dec-1817. She was the daughter of Ralph Van Cleave and Elizabeth Stubbins.

      Cary B. Van Cleave was born on 29-Sep-1819. He was the son of Ralph Van Cleave and Elizabeth Stubbins. Cary B. Van Cleave died on 26-Sep-1823 at age 3.

      Emily Van Cleave was born on 4-Oct-1822. She was the daughter of Ralph Van Cleave and Elizabeth Stubbins. Emily Van Cleave died on 9-Jun-1853 at age 30.

      John Van Cleave was born on 10-Sep-1815 at Shelbyville, Shelby County, Kentucky. He was the son of Aaron Van Cleave and Elizabeth Griffin. John married Malinda Van Cleave, daughter of Ralph Van Cleave and Elizabeth Stubbins, on 3-Sep-1835 at Montgomery County, Indiana. John Van Cleave died on 1-Mar-1846 at age 30.
     He was also known as Johnathan Van Cleave.

      Isaiah Van Cleave was born on 4-Oct-1836 at Browns Valley, Montgomery County, Indiana. He was born on 10-Oct-1836. He was the son of John Van Cleave and Malinda Van Cleave. Isaiah married Mary Catherine Van Cleave, daughter of Banjamin C. Van Cleave and Mary Brown, on 28-Feb-1861 at Montgomery County, Indiana. Isaiah Van Cleave died on 25-Dec-1907 at Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 71.

      Emily E. Van Cleave was born on 4-Jul-1838 at Browns Valley, Montgomery County, Indiana. She was the daughter of John Van Cleave and Malinda Van Cleave. Emily E. Van Cleave died on 24-Aug-1841 at Browns Valley, Montgomery County, Indiana, at age 3.