Pioneer history of Ingham County, compiled and arranged by Mrs. Franc L. Adams, secretary of the Ingham County pioneer and historical society.

48

PIONEER HISTORY OF INGHAM COUNTY

one of the wealthiest and best. Yes, it is also the capital county
of the State.
Tell me, then, were not the pioneers brave, and have they not
signalized their bravery by a glorious conquest, a new proof that
"Peace hath her victories no less renowned than war?"
Long may they live to enjoy the conquest."
The third annual meeting of the Pioneer Society of Ingham
County was held at the court house in Mason on May 25, 1875.
The officers elected for the ensuing year were: President,
Wm. A. Dryer; Vice President, Henry A. Hawley; Secretary,
Peter Lowe; Treasurer, Samuel Skadan. Executive Committee:
J. M. French, Lansing; Geo. M. Huntington, Mason; M. McRobert, Mason.
The secretary read the names of pioneers who had died during
the year:
Oliver Griffin, Mason, aged 89.
Ephraim Rolfe, Vevay, aged 52.
James Reeves, Stockbridge, aged 62.
David Rogers, Stockbridge, aged 77.
Sally Gunn, Delhi.
Hon. J. W. Longyear, Detroit.
Wm. Huntoon, Leslie, aged 56.
Hon. O. M. Barnes was called upon to explain the duties of the
town historical committees. IHe suggested that they first learn
what land was earliest located in the town; next the first settlement in the town; then its organization into a municipality,
which can be found in the laws and records of the town. Then
they should follow its history, giving the names of officers elected
from year to year; the history of the leading citizens, giving the
number of votes cast at township meetings and also the number
of inhabitants.
The more of detail the better, as a full and complete history of
each township will be very valuable, and grow more so from year
to year.
Upon motion of the speaker the secretary was instructed to
prepare and have printed, to send to each member of the com