James M. Caldwell is a native of Bedford County, Pa. Born July 3, 1811. His parents were William and Rebecca Caldwell, the former a native of Kentucky, and the later of Maryland. Our subject grew to manhood on a farm in Pennsylvania, and received a fair education for that day of limited school advantages. He taught several terms of school in Pennsylvania and Indiana. In his youth he was apprenticed to learn the tanner's trade, but after completing it was compelled to abandon the trade on account of rheumatism. In the spring of 1837, the Caldwell's disposed of their property in Pennsylvania, and turned their attention westward. They loaded their household effects into wagons, and started overland for Rush County, Indiana. After three weeks of steady traveling, they drew up at what is now known as the old Caldwell homestead. Here the family moved into a rude cabin with clapboard doors and no windows. Neighbors were scarce and all seemed an unbroken wilderness. Mrs. Caldwell wished for some time after her arrival that she had remained in Pennsylvania, but by degrees the wilderness was transformed into a beautiful home, and all soon began to enjoy themselves. All went well until death visited the family in 1845, and removed William Caldwell, one of the pioneers and honored citizens of the county. Mrs. Caldwell survived him until the 11th of March 1885, when she, too, was called home. Her birth occurred on the 9th of September 1785, and at the time of her death only lacked a few months of being one hundred years of age. Our subject, James M. Caldwell was united in marriage with Miss Alcy Ploughe, March 7, 1844. She was the daughter of Isaac and Mary (Hobbs) Ploughe. Alcy was born in Greensburg, where she was reared until she was about twelve years of age, when her parents removed to this county. This union was blessed with nine children, William A., Mary E., Sadie, Lydia M., George H., Barton S., (deceased) James E., Rachel M., and Oliver P., all those living are grown to maturity. Mr. And Mrs. Caldwell are members of the Christian Church, with which they have been identified over forty years. Politically, Mr. Caldwell is a staunch Republican, and firmly upholds the principles of that party, and at one time held the office of Sheriff of Rush County. He began life at the bottom of the ladder, and in 1838-9 and 40, we find him teaming between Cincinnati, Ohio, and Rushville. He carefully saved his earnings and in this way laid the foundation for his start in life. After his marriage he farmed as a renter, but in the fall of 1844, he moved into a cabin situated on forty acres of land he owns at present. Fifty years ago last May, Mr. Caldwell landed here and a great change has taken place since then. Here he has spent the principal part of his life and has succeeded in developing a fine farm in Section 24. He and his venerable companion who has stood by his side through the trials of life for nearly a half century, are now enjoying a comfortable home, surrounded by honorable sons and daughters, who after the father and mother have passed away, will keep their memories green.

History of Rush County 1888, Chicago, Brant & Fuller 1888
Contributor: D. L. (Travis)(Corbett)(Maston)Black (47352945)