Biographical Memoirs of BLACKFORD COUNTY, IND.; edited and complied by Benjamin G. Shinn; Chicago, The Bowen Publishing Company 1900. Pages 580 - 583.
Elihu J. Oren, a well known agriculturist residing near Upland, in Monroe township, Grant County, Indiana, is one of the prominent and influential citizens of that vicinity. Although a native of Greene county, Ohio, where he was born February 20, 1835, he traces his genealogy back, through a long line of ancestors, to the founders of Orenburg, a province in the southern part of the Russian empire, near the Caucasian mountain, and still further to one of the tribes of Israel from which they originated. His immediate ancestors were Jesse and Elizabeth (Evans) Oren. Jesse Oren was born in the state of Tennessee, December 11, 1806, and learned the vocation of tanner. His school privileges were limited but he did considerable in the way of self education and was considered a remarkably bright man, one well read on all popular topics. He moved to Clinton county, Ohio, with his father from his native state when he was sixteen years of age and was one of the early settlers of the that section. The country was wild and unbroken and was plentiful provided with in the wild animals that roamed at will over the land. Indians also were in abundance. He remained there until 1830, when he located in Greene county on the 12th of September, and worked at his trade for eleven years when he started for Grant county, reaching here November 12, 1841. Here he located on part of the farm now occupied by Elihu J., and their first dwelling was a rude log cabin. He now turned his time and attention to farming and purchased an additional eighty acres of David Wall, making in all one hundred and sixty acres. The first purchased by Jesse Oren has been purchased by our subject and is now his home. He was at one time a Quaker in religious belief, but later became an advocate of the free thinkers. Like most men of his religious views, he was a strong abolitionist and a follower of William Lloyd Garrison, but gave his support to our martyred president, Abraham Lincoln, and did all in his power for the advancement of freedom. Of a benevolent disposition, he dispensed his charity with a lavish hand and was broad and liberal in his judgment of others. When convinced of his ground, he took a decided stand and his fellow citizens had no fears of any wavering on his part. His death occurred September 13, 1874, and was deeply deplored by a wide circle of friends.
Elihu J. (Jesse) Oren chose as his companion through life, Miss Elizabeth Evans, who bore him three sons and six daughters, four of whom survive, residents of Indiana and one daughter a resident of Douglass county, Kansas. Elizabeth Evans was born in Daviess county, this state, on June 17, 1808, and was a daughter of John Evans. Her grandfather, General R, M. Evans, platted and laid the foundation of the city of Evansville, Indiana, the third in the state. He was a soldier and general in the war of 1812, and took a prominent part in the early history of the state. As son, Owen Evans, also fought in the war of 1812, and another son John, was a soldier in the Mexican war. The family was composed of warrior material, such as that which served to gain for us our national independence.
Elihu J. Oren was the third child born in his fathers family and was but six years of age when they moved to this county, so the greater part of his life has been passed on his present farm. One of the oldest of the family he was expected to assist in clearing and developing the farm and his aid was cheerfully given although it meant for him close application to hard work and but little hope for schooling. The facilities for learning in those days were meager and not to be compared with the present, and knowledge was gained but through hardship at best. Our subject did not even have the privilege enjoyed by most children of his time: the longest period of time that he was able to attend school was twenty-nine days, and it was a pleasure to him that the younger members were more fortunate and three of them fitted themselves as teachers. Determined not to grow up in ignorance, this plucky farmer boy improved his spare moments, picking up knowledge, here a little, there a little, until to-day he is one of the best informed men in the county. He remained with his parents until his twenty-first year and then went out in the world, empty-handed, to battle with Dame Fortune. However, his parents were not neglected and it was his privilege to care for his father during his last years, when the parent became an invalid. He has learned the trade of an engineer and secured a position on the steamboat "George Washington," plying up and down the Missouri river between Louis and Council Bluffs. Many improvements have taken place along that muddy stream since those days - probably none greater than the transformation of the little boat landing into the flourishing and prosperous city - Kansas City. His winters were spent in Michigan, as the river was frozen and not navigable. Mr. Oren later turned to farming, displaying the same energy and industry that has characterized all his business, and that has made him so successful. Modern methods were examined and tried where his judgment told him it would succeed and he was the first man in this county to change from the old horse power to the engine in running his thresher, during the summer for some time and made it pay.
Mr. Oren is a natural mechanic and would have worked his way to the top if he had continued in that calling. The farm which he owns lies in the gas belt of Indiana, and indications are also observable which point strongly to oil beneath the surface. If this surmise should be correct, Mr. Owen will be the owner of one of the most valuable properties in the state - a fact little suspected when the family originally settled there.
He was wedded, March 16, 1871, to Miss Mary Townsend, daughter of James S. and Mary (Leffler) Townsend, and began their wedded life on the old homestead. She was born November 18, 1852 in Blackford county, where her parents now reside, her father being in his seventy-eighth years. He is of English descent. Of the seven children of this family, three are residents of Blackford county. Mrs. Oren is bright, attractive lady whose cheery disposition scatters sunshine in her path and whose keen instinct and sound judgment makes her an invaluable helpmate to her husband. Nine sons and daughters have been given them, two of whom have preceded them to the Celestial City. Those living are: Jason, of whom a brief mention is made below; Otto, a resident of Carroll county, Missouri, where he is engaged in farming. He is married; Jasper, who is a fireman on the Chicago, Indiana & Eastern railroad, lives at home; Bertha wife of J. Atkinson, a farmer of this township; James E., and Bruce C., students in the eighth grade at school; Fletcher, in the seventh grade; Estella who is in the third; and Charles, the baby of the family.It has been the earnest wish of this worthy couple to give each child the best education possible as they realize how much better equipped such a one is to meet the vicissitudes of life, and how many more avenues are open to the scholar. Their standing in the community is an enviable one, and the liberal religion they profess the Universalist shines forth in their everyday life compelling the respect and commendation of all.
Mr. Oren has been a Democrat since he first vote for James Buchanan. He has repeatedly represented his party at their state, county, and congressional convention, serving in the latter capacity August 8, 1900, just past, at Huntington. It would be difficult to find a man who enjoys the confidence of the people in a greater degree, and that this confidence is not misplaced is shown in the manner in which he discharges the trusts impose on him. As trustee of the township he has been a most efficient public servant and has been re-elected to the same position five different times, making his present tenure of office twelve years. Mr. Oren us a large man in stature, with firm but kindly disposition and easily approached. His generosity is unquestioned, and seven churches, of as many denominations, bear tribute to the prodigal contributor. He is quite prominent in fraternal circles. He was made a Mason in 1861 at Jonesboro, this state, and was one of the charter members of Areana Lodge No., 427, F. & A. M., of Upland, of which he is worshipful master; he was raised to the chapter in Hartford Lodge No. 111, of Hartford City, and has taken an active part in lodge work, representing it in the grand lodge a number of times. He also holds membership in Shidler Lodge No. 352, I. O. O. F., of this city, has credibly filled all the, chairs, and has represented this lodge in the grand lodge several times and has had presented to him by the sovereign grand lodge the veteran's jewel, of which he is very proud. He is also a member of the Encampment No. 252, and has successfully filled all the offices in the deliberations of that body. In November, 1898, he represented Shilder Lodge of Upland in the general encampment in Indianapolis.
Jesse Oren, the eldest son of Elihu J. is a young man of exceptional ability, both in mechanical and literary lines. At the age of twelve he showed great aptitude for mechanics and mastered the intricacies of his father's steam engine. In school he was equally precocious, finishing the common branches and taking up the higher ones far ahead of boys his age.
Mr. Oren is a full-fledge democrat, and gave his support to the silver tongued orator from the west who electrified the United States four years ago with his wit and logic - William Jennings Bryan. Mr. Oren has made a brilliant record in his lodge work and will no doubt become authority in the ritualistic work of the order. His petition was presented as soon as he had reached the requisite age. He was made a Mason in May; from December, same year, he served on year as senior warden, and next December was elected master, and the May following he was seated in the grand lodge as representative of Areanan Lodge. He was then but twenty-three years of age, and so far as is known was the youngest Mason in this state ever sent as representative to grand lodge. He is genial and witty, and a prime favorite in society.
Elihu J. Oren, a well known agriculturist residing near Upland, in Monroe township, Grant County, Indiana, is one of the prominent and influential citizens of that vicinity. Although a native of Greene county, Ohio, where he was born February 20, 1835, he traces his genealogy back, through a long line of ancestors, to the founders of Orenburg, a province in the southern part of the Russian empire, near the Caucasian mountain, and still further to one of the tribes of Israel from which they originated. His immediate ancestors were Jesse and Elizabeth (Evans) Oren. Jesse Oren was born in the state of Tennessee, December 11, 1806, and learned the vocation of tanner. His school privileges were limited but he did considerable in the way of self education and was considered a remarkably bright man, one well read on all popular topics. He moved to Clinton county, Ohio, with his father from his native state when he was sixteen years of age and was one of the early settlers of the that section. The country was wild and unbroken and was plentiful provided with in the wild animals that roamed at will over the land. Indians also were in abundance. He remained there until 1830, when he located in Greene county on the 12th of September, and worked at his trade for eleven years when he started for Grant county, reaching here November 12, 1841. Here he located on part of the farm now occupied by Elihu J., and their first dwelling was a rude log cabin. He now turned his time and attention to farming and purchased an additional eighty acres of David Wall, making in all one hundred and sixty acres. The first purchased by Jesse Oren has been purchased by our subject and is now his home. He was at one time a Quaker in religious belief, but later became an advocate of the free thinkers. Like most men of his religious views, he was a strong abolitionist and a follower of William Lloyd Garrison, but gave his support to our martyred president, Abraham Lincoln, and did all in his power for the advancement of freedom. Of a benevolent disposition, he dispensed his charity with a lavish hand and was broad and liberal in his judgment of others. When convinced of his ground, he took a decided stand and his fellow citizens had no fears of any wavering on his part. His death occurred September 13, 1874, and was deeply deplored by a wide circle of friends.
Elihu J. (Jesse) Oren chose as his companion through life, Miss Elizabeth Evans, who bore him three sons and six daughters, four of whom survive, residents of Indiana and one daughter a resident of Douglass county, Kansas. Elizabeth Evans was born in Daviess county, this state, on June 17, 1808, and was a daughter of John Evans. Her grandfather, General R, M. Evans, platted and laid the foundation of the city of Evansville, Indiana, the third in the state. He was a soldier and general in the war of 1812, and took a prominent part in the early history of the state. As son, Owen Evans, also fought in the war of 1812, and another son John, was a soldier in the Mexican war. The family was composed of warrior material, such as that which served to gain for us our national independence.
Elihu J. Oren was the third child born in his fathers family and was but six years of age when they moved to this county, so the greater part of his life has been passed on his present farm. One of the oldest of the family he was expected to assist in clearing and developing the farm and his aid was cheerfully given although it meant for him close application to hard work and but little hope for schooling. The facilities for learning in those days were meager and not to be compared with the present, and knowledge was gained but through hardship at best. Our subject did not even have the privilege enjoyed by most children of his time: the longest period of time that he was able to attend school was twenty-nine days, and it was a pleasure to him that the younger members were more fortunate and three of them fitted themselves as teachers. Determined not to grow up in ignorance, this plucky farmer boy improved his spare moments, picking up knowledge, here a little, there a little, until to-day he is one of the best informed men in the county. He remained with his parents until his twenty-first year and then went out in the world, empty-handed, to battle with Dame Fortune. However, his parents were not neglected and it was his privilege to care for his father during his last years, when the parent became an invalid. He has learned the trade of an engineer and secured a position on the steamboat "George Washington," plying up and down the Missouri river between Louis and Council Bluffs. Many improvements have taken place along that muddy stream since those days - probably none greater than the transformation of the little boat landing into the flourishing and prosperous city - Kansas City. His winters were spent in Michigan, as the river was frozen and not navigable. Mr. Oren later turned to farming, displaying the same energy and industry that has characterized all his business, and that has made him so successful. Modern methods were examined and tried where his judgment told him it would succeed and he was the first man in this county to change from the old horse power to the engine in running his thresher, during the summer for some time and made it pay.
Mr. Oren is a natural mechanic and would have worked his way to the top if he had continued in that calling. The farm which he owns lies in the gas belt of Indiana, and indications are also observable which point strongly to oil beneath the surface. If this surmise should be correct, Mr. Owen will be the owner of one of the most valuable properties in the state - a fact little suspected when the family originally settled there.
He was wedded, March 16, 1871, to Miss Mary Townsend, daughter of James S. and Mary (Leffler) Townsend, and began their wedded life on the old homestead. She was born November 18, 1852 in Blackford county, where her parents now reside, her father being in his seventy-eighth years. He is of English descent. Of the seven children of this family, three are residents of Blackford county. Mrs. Oren is bright, attractive lady whose cheery disposition scatters sunshine in her path and whose keen instinct and sound judgment makes her an invaluable helpmate to her husband. Nine sons and daughters have been given them, two of whom have preceded them to the Celestial City. Those living are: Jason, of whom a brief mention is made below; Otto, a resident of Carroll county, Missouri, where he is engaged in farming. He is married; Jasper, who is a fireman on the Chicago, Indiana & Eastern railroad, lives at home; Bertha wife of J. Atkinson, a farmer of this township; James E., and Bruce C., students in the eighth grade at school; Fletcher, in the seventh grade; Estella who is in the third; and Charles, the baby of the family.It has been the earnest wish of this worthy couple to give each child the best education possible as they realize how much better equipped such a one is to meet the vicissitudes of life, and how many more avenues are open to the scholar. Their standing in the community is an enviable one, and the liberal religion they profess the Universalist shines forth in their everyday life compelling the respect and commendation of all.
Mr. Oren has been a Democrat since he first vote for James Buchanan. He has repeatedly represented his party at their state, county, and congressional convention, serving in the latter capacity August 8, 1900, just past, at Huntington. It would be difficult to find a man who enjoys the confidence of the people in a greater degree, and that this confidence is not misplaced is shown in the manner in which he discharges the trusts impose on him. As trustee of the township he has been a most efficient public servant and has been re-elected to the same position five different times, making his present tenure of office twelve years. Mr. Oren us a large man in stature, with firm but kindly disposition and easily approached. His generosity is unquestioned, and seven churches, of as many denominations, bear tribute to the prodigal contributor. He is quite prominent in fraternal circles. He was made a Mason in 1861 at Jonesboro, this state, and was one of the charter members of Areana Lodge No., 427, F. & A. M., of Upland, of which he is worshipful master; he was raised to the chapter in Hartford Lodge No. 111, of Hartford City, and has taken an active part in lodge work, representing it in the grand lodge a number of times. He also holds membership in Shidler Lodge No. 352, I. O. O. F., of this city, has credibly filled all the, chairs, and has represented this lodge in the grand lodge several times and has had presented to him by the sovereign grand lodge the veteran's jewel, of which he is very proud. He is also a member of the Encampment No. 252, and has successfully filled all the offices in the deliberations of that body. In November, 1898, he represented Shilder Lodge of Upland in the general encampment in Indianapolis.
Jesse Oren, the eldest son of Elihu J. is a young man of exceptional ability, both in mechanical and literary lines. At the age of twelve he showed great aptitude for mechanics and mastered the intricacies of his father's steam engine. In school he was equally precocious, finishing the common branches and taking up the higher ones far ahead of boys his age.
Mr. Oren is a full-fledge democrat, and gave his support to the silver tongued orator from the west who electrified the United States four years ago with his wit and logic - William Jennings Bryan. Mr. Oren has made a brilliant record in his lodge work and will no doubt become authority in the ritualistic work of the order. His petition was presented as soon as he had reached the requisite age. He was made a Mason in May; from December, same year, he served on year as senior warden, and next December was elected master, and the May following he was seated in the grand lodge as representative of Areanan Lodge. He was then but twenty-three years of age, and so far as is known was the youngest Mason in this state ever sent as representative to grand lodge. He is genial and witty, and a prime favorite in society.
Biographical Memoirs of BLACKFORD COUNTY, IND.; edited and complied by Benjamin G. Shinn; Chicago, The Bowen Publishing Company 1900. Pages 580 - 583.
Elihu J. Oren, a well known agriculturist residing near Upland, in Monroe township, Grant County, Indiana, is one of the prominent and influential citizens of that vicinity. Although a native of Greene county, Ohio, where he was born February 20, 1835, he traces his genealogy back, through a long line of ancestors, to the founders of Orenburg, a province in the southern part of the Russian empire, near the Caucasian mountain, and still further to one of the tribes of Israel from which they originated. His immediate ancestors were Jesse and Elizabeth (Evans) Oren. Jesse Oren was born in the state of Tennessee, December 11, 1806, and learned the vocation of tanner. His school privileges were limited but he did considerable in the way of self education and was considered a remarkably bright man, one well read on all popular topics. He moved to Clinton county, Ohio, with his father from his native state when he was sixteen years of age and was one of the early settlers of the that section. The country was wild and unbroken and was plentiful provided with in the wild animals that roamed at will over the land. Indians also were in abundance. He remained there until 1830, when he located in Greene county on the 12th of September, and worked at his trade for eleven years when he started for Grant county, reaching here November 12, 1841. Here he located on part of the farm now occupied by Elihu J., and their first dwelling was a rude log cabin. He now turned his time and attention to farming and purchased an additional eighty acres of David Wall, making in all one hundred and sixty acres. The first purchased by Jesse Oren has been purchased by our subject and is now his home. He was at one time a Quaker in religious belief, but later became an advocate of the free thinkers. Like most men of his religious views, he was a strong abolitionist and a follower of William Lloyd Garrison, but gave his support to our martyred president, Abraham Lincoln, and did all in his power for the advancement of freedom. Of a benevolent disposition, he dispensed his charity with a lavish hand and was broad and liberal in his judgment of others. When convinced of his ground, he took a decided stand and his fellow citizens had no fears of any wavering on his part. His death occurred September 13, 1874, and was deeply deplored by a wide circle of friends.
Elihu J. (Jesse) Oren chose as his companion through life, Miss Elizabeth Evans, who bore him three sons and six daughters, four of whom survive, residents of Indiana and one daughter a resident of Douglass county, Kansas. Elizabeth Evans was born in Daviess county, this state, on June 17, 1808, and was a daughter of John Evans. Her grandfather, General R, M. Evans, platted and laid the foundation of the city of Evansville, Indiana, the third in the state. He was a soldier and general in the war of 1812, and took a prominent part in the early history of the state. As son, Owen Evans, also fought in the war of 1812, and another son John, was a soldier in the Mexican war. The family was composed of warrior material, such as that which served to gain for us our national independence.
Elihu J. Oren was the third child born in his fathers family and was but six years of age when they moved to this county, so the greater part of his life has been passed on his present farm. One of the oldest of the family he was expected to assist in clearing and developing the farm and his aid was cheerfully given although it meant for him close application to hard work and but little hope for schooling. The facilities for learning in those days were meager and not to be compared with the present, and knowledge was gained but through hardship at best. Our subject did not even have the privilege enjoyed by most children of his time: the longest period of time that he was able to attend school was twenty-nine days, and it was a pleasure to him that the younger members were more fortunate and three of them fitted themselves as teachers. Determined not to grow up in ignorance, this plucky farmer boy improved his spare moments, picking up knowledge, here a little, there a little, until to-day he is one of the best informed men in the county. He remained with his parents until his twenty-first year and then went out in the world, empty-handed, to battle with Dame Fortune. However, his parents were not neglected and it was his privilege to care for his father during his last years, when the parent became an invalid. He has learned the trade of an engineer and secured a position on the steamboat "George Washington," plying up and down the Missouri river between Louis and Council Bluffs. Many improvements have taken place along that muddy stream since those days - probably none greater than the transformation of the little boat landing into the flourishing and prosperous city - Kansas City. His winters were spent in Michigan, as the river was frozen and not navigable. Mr. Oren later turned to farming, displaying the same energy and industry that has characterized all his business, and that has made him so successful. Modern methods were examined and tried where his judgment told him it would succeed and he was the first man in this county to change from the old horse power to the engine in running his thresher, during the summer for some time and made it pay.
Mr. Oren is a natural mechanic and would have worked his way to the top if he had continued in that calling. The farm which he owns lies in the gas belt of Indiana, and indications are also observable which point strongly to oil beneath the surface. If this surmise should be correct, Mr. Owen will be the owner of one of the most valuable properties in the state - a fact little suspected when the family originally settled there.
He was wedded, March 16, 1871, to Miss Mary Townsend, daughter of James S. and Mary (Leffler) Townsend, and began their wedded life on the old homestead. She was born November 18, 1852 in Blackford county, where her parents now reside, her father being in his seventy-eighth years. He is of English descent. Of the seven children of this family, three are residents of Blackford county. Mrs. Oren is bright, attractive lady whose cheery disposition scatters sunshine in her path and whose keen instinct and sound judgment makes her an invaluable helpmate to her husband. Nine sons and daughters have been given them, two of whom have preceded them to the Celestial City. Those living are: Jason, of whom a brief mention is made below; Otto, a resident of Carroll county, Missouri, where he is engaged in farming. He is married; Jasper, who is a fireman on the Chicago, Indiana & Eastern railroad, lives at home; Bertha wife of J. Atkinson, a farmer of this township; James E., and Bruce C., students in the eighth grade at school; Fletcher, in the seventh grade; Estella who is in the third; and Charles, the baby of the family.It has been the earnest wish of this worthy couple to give each child the best education possible as they realize how much better equipped such a one is to meet the vicissitudes of life, and how many more avenues are open to the scholar. Their standing in the community is an enviable one, and the liberal religion they profess the Universalist shines forth in their everyday life compelling the respect and commendation of all.
Mr. Oren has been a Democrat since he first vote for James Buchanan. He has repeatedly represented his party at their state, county, and congressional convention, serving in the latter capacity August 8, 1900, just past, at Huntington. It would be difficult to find a man who enjoys the confidence of the people in a greater degree, and that this confidence is not misplaced is shown in the manner in which he discharges the trusts impose on him. As trustee of the township he has been a most efficient public servant and has been re-elected to the same position five different times, making his present tenure of office twelve years. Mr. Oren us a large man in stature, with firm but kindly disposition and easily approached. His generosity is unquestioned, and seven churches, of as many denominations, bear tribute to the prodigal contributor. He is quite prominent in fraternal circles. He was made a Mason in 1861 at Jonesboro, this state, and was one of the charter members of Areana Lodge No., 427, F. & A. M., of Upland, of which he is worshipful master; he was raised to the chapter in Hartford Lodge No. 111, of Hartford City, and has taken an active part in lodge work, representing it in the grand lodge a number of times. He also holds membership in Shidler Lodge No. 352, I. O. O. F., of this city, has credibly filled all the, chairs, and has represented this lodge in the grand lodge several times and has had presented to him by the sovereign grand lodge the veteran's jewel, of which he is very proud. He is also a member of the Encampment No. 252, and has successfully filled all the offices in the deliberations of that body. In November, 1898, he represented Shilder Lodge of Upland in the general encampment in Indianapolis.
Jesse Oren, the eldest son of Elihu J. is a young man of exceptional ability, both in mechanical and literary lines. At the age of twelve he showed great aptitude for mechanics and mastered the intricacies of his father's steam engine. In school he was equally precocious, finishing the common branches and taking up the higher ones far ahead of boys his age.
Mr. Oren is a full-fledge democrat, and gave his support to the silver tongued orator from the west who electrified the United States four years ago with his wit and logic - William Jennings Bryan. Mr. Oren has made a brilliant record in his lodge work and will no doubt become authority in the ritualistic work of the order. His petition was presented as soon as he had reached the requisite age. He was made a Mason in May; from December, same year, he served on year as senior warden, and next December was elected master, and the May following he was seated in the grand lodge as representative of Areanan Lodge. He was then but twenty-three years of age, and so far as is known was the youngest Mason in this state ever sent as representative to grand lodge. He is genial and witty, and a prime favorite in society.
Elihu J. Oren, a well known agriculturist residing near Upland, in Monroe township, Grant County, Indiana, is one of the prominent and influential citizens of that vicinity. Although a native of Greene county, Ohio, where he was born February 20, 1835, he traces his genealogy back, through a long line of ancestors, to the founders of Orenburg, a province in the southern part of the Russian empire, near the Caucasian mountain, and still further to one of the tribes of Israel from which they originated. His immediate ancestors were Jesse and Elizabeth (Evans) Oren. Jesse Oren was born in the state of Tennessee, December 11, 1806, and learned the vocation of tanner. His school privileges were limited but he did considerable in the way of self education and was considered a remarkably bright man, one well read on all popular topics. He moved to Clinton county, Ohio, with his father from his native state when he was sixteen years of age and was one of the early settlers of the that section. The country was wild and unbroken and was plentiful provided with in the wild animals that roamed at will over the land. Indians also were in abundance. He remained there until 1830, when he located in Greene county on the 12th of September, and worked at his trade for eleven years when he started for Grant county, reaching here November 12, 1841. Here he located on part of the farm now occupied by Elihu J., and their first dwelling was a rude log cabin. He now turned his time and attention to farming and purchased an additional eighty acres of David Wall, making in all one hundred and sixty acres. The first purchased by Jesse Oren has been purchased by our subject and is now his home. He was at one time a Quaker in religious belief, but later became an advocate of the free thinkers. Like most men of his religious views, he was a strong abolitionist and a follower of William Lloyd Garrison, but gave his support to our martyred president, Abraham Lincoln, and did all in his power for the advancement of freedom. Of a benevolent disposition, he dispensed his charity with a lavish hand and was broad and liberal in his judgment of others. When convinced of his ground, he took a decided stand and his fellow citizens had no fears of any wavering on his part. His death occurred September 13, 1874, and was deeply deplored by a wide circle of friends.
Elihu J. (Jesse) Oren chose as his companion through life, Miss Elizabeth Evans, who bore him three sons and six daughters, four of whom survive, residents of Indiana and one daughter a resident of Douglass county, Kansas. Elizabeth Evans was born in Daviess county, this state, on June 17, 1808, and was a daughter of John Evans. Her grandfather, General R, M. Evans, platted and laid the foundation of the city of Evansville, Indiana, the third in the state. He was a soldier and general in the war of 1812, and took a prominent part in the early history of the state. As son, Owen Evans, also fought in the war of 1812, and another son John, was a soldier in the Mexican war. The family was composed of warrior material, such as that which served to gain for us our national independence.
Elihu J. Oren was the third child born in his fathers family and was but six years of age when they moved to this county, so the greater part of his life has been passed on his present farm. One of the oldest of the family he was expected to assist in clearing and developing the farm and his aid was cheerfully given although it meant for him close application to hard work and but little hope for schooling. The facilities for learning in those days were meager and not to be compared with the present, and knowledge was gained but through hardship at best. Our subject did not even have the privilege enjoyed by most children of his time: the longest period of time that he was able to attend school was twenty-nine days, and it was a pleasure to him that the younger members were more fortunate and three of them fitted themselves as teachers. Determined not to grow up in ignorance, this plucky farmer boy improved his spare moments, picking up knowledge, here a little, there a little, until to-day he is one of the best informed men in the county. He remained with his parents until his twenty-first year and then went out in the world, empty-handed, to battle with Dame Fortune. However, his parents were not neglected and it was his privilege to care for his father during his last years, when the parent became an invalid. He has learned the trade of an engineer and secured a position on the steamboat "George Washington," plying up and down the Missouri river between Louis and Council Bluffs. Many improvements have taken place along that muddy stream since those days - probably none greater than the transformation of the little boat landing into the flourishing and prosperous city - Kansas City. His winters were spent in Michigan, as the river was frozen and not navigable. Mr. Oren later turned to farming, displaying the same energy and industry that has characterized all his business, and that has made him so successful. Modern methods were examined and tried where his judgment told him it would succeed and he was the first man in this county to change from the old horse power to the engine in running his thresher, during the summer for some time and made it pay.
Mr. Oren is a natural mechanic and would have worked his way to the top if he had continued in that calling. The farm which he owns lies in the gas belt of Indiana, and indications are also observable which point strongly to oil beneath the surface. If this surmise should be correct, Mr. Owen will be the owner of one of the most valuable properties in the state - a fact little suspected when the family originally settled there.
He was wedded, March 16, 1871, to Miss Mary Townsend, daughter of James S. and Mary (Leffler) Townsend, and began their wedded life on the old homestead. She was born November 18, 1852 in Blackford county, where her parents now reside, her father being in his seventy-eighth years. He is of English descent. Of the seven children of this family, three are residents of Blackford county. Mrs. Oren is bright, attractive lady whose cheery disposition scatters sunshine in her path and whose keen instinct and sound judgment makes her an invaluable helpmate to her husband. Nine sons and daughters have been given them, two of whom have preceded them to the Celestial City. Those living are: Jason, of whom a brief mention is made below; Otto, a resident of Carroll county, Missouri, where he is engaged in farming. He is married; Jasper, who is a fireman on the Chicago, Indiana & Eastern railroad, lives at home; Bertha wife of J. Atkinson, a farmer of this township; James E., and Bruce C., students in the eighth grade at school; Fletcher, in the seventh grade; Estella who is in the third; and Charles, the baby of the family.It has been the earnest wish of this worthy couple to give each child the best education possible as they realize how much better equipped such a one is to meet the vicissitudes of life, and how many more avenues are open to the scholar. Their standing in the community is an enviable one, and the liberal religion they profess the Universalist shines forth in their everyday life compelling the respect and commendation of all.
Mr. Oren has been a Democrat since he first vote for James Buchanan. He has repeatedly represented his party at their state, county, and congressional convention, serving in the latter capacity August 8, 1900, just past, at Huntington. It would be difficult to find a man who enjoys the confidence of the people in a greater degree, and that this confidence is not misplaced is shown in the manner in which he discharges the trusts impose on him. As trustee of the township he has been a most efficient public servant and has been re-elected to the same position five different times, making his present tenure of office twelve years. Mr. Oren us a large man in stature, with firm but kindly disposition and easily approached. His generosity is unquestioned, and seven churches, of as many denominations, bear tribute to the prodigal contributor. He is quite prominent in fraternal circles. He was made a Mason in 1861 at Jonesboro, this state, and was one of the charter members of Areana Lodge No., 427, F. & A. M., of Upland, of which he is worshipful master; he was raised to the chapter in Hartford Lodge No. 111, of Hartford City, and has taken an active part in lodge work, representing it in the grand lodge a number of times. He also holds membership in Shidler Lodge No. 352, I. O. O. F., of this city, has credibly filled all the, chairs, and has represented this lodge in the grand lodge several times and has had presented to him by the sovereign grand lodge the veteran's jewel, of which he is very proud. He is also a member of the Encampment No. 252, and has successfully filled all the offices in the deliberations of that body. In November, 1898, he represented Shilder Lodge of Upland in the general encampment in Indianapolis.
Jesse Oren, the eldest son of Elihu J. is a young man of exceptional ability, both in mechanical and literary lines. At the age of twelve he showed great aptitude for mechanics and mastered the intricacies of his father's steam engine. In school he was equally precocious, finishing the common branches and taking up the higher ones far ahead of boys his age.
Mr. Oren is a full-fledge democrat, and gave his support to the silver tongued orator from the west who electrified the United States four years ago with his wit and logic - William Jennings Bryan. Mr. Oren has made a brilliant record in his lodge work and will no doubt become authority in the ritualistic work of the order. His petition was presented as soon as he had reached the requisite age. He was made a Mason in May; from December, same year, he served on year as senior warden, and next December was elected master, and the May following he was seated in the grand lodge as representative of Areanan Lodge. He was then but twenty-three years of age, and so far as is known was the youngest Mason in this state ever sent as representative to grand lodge. He is genial and witty, and a prime favorite in society.
Family Members
Sponsored by Ancestry
Advertisement
Advertisement
