Joel Van Meter

Joel Van Meter, farmer, Carbon, is the son of Jacob and Ruth (WORLEY) Van Meter and was b. Nov. 26, 1825 in Fayette Co, IN.  His grandfather Van Meter served in the Revolution, and his father, becoming of the right age, started for the scene of conflict, but peace being proclaimed he returned home.  Jacob Van Meter was a Whig, and then a Republican, who was never afraid to speak his sentiments.  He served as "squire" for some years.  He d. Feb 25, 1873, his wife having preceded him on June 12, 1863.  Both were buried in the Isaac Brown graveyard in Madison Co, IN. Both were members of the Methodist church and he was an exhorter and class leader for many years.  They died as they lived, good Christian people.  Joel passed his youth on the farm in Fayette Co.  At the age of 17 he hired out, continuing in the employ of others till 23 years old, when he was married Oct 23, 1848 to Louisa LAMBARD, daughter of Clayton and Rhoda (LEE) Lambard.  She was b. Dec 12, 1828.  Her parents were born and raised near Lebanon, Ohio.  Van Meter had a family of 5 children: William D, b. Sept 11, 1849; George W, Oct 30, 1850; Joseph N, Jan 20, 1853; Clayton L, Jan 30, 1855; Rhoda A, Feb 25, 1857; Jacob E, April 5, 1859; and Sarah E, Feb 22, 1862.  Mrs. Van Meter d. Aug 9, 1863.  She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.  Mr. Van Meter was married next Jan 22, 1864 to Mrs. Mahala (CRUTCHFIELD) PRATT, b. July 2, 1830 and had 4 children when said marriage took place: Mary E. Pratt, b. March 28, 1852; Kiziah C. Pratt, May 2, 1855; Rosila Pratt, Sept 13, 1857 and Dora I. Pratt, Oct 5, 1860.  Mr. Van Meter's second family are: Martha A, b. July 17, 1865; Viola J, Sept. 28, 1868; Louisa J, July 14, 1871.  Mr. Van Meter served in the Rebellion in Co. A, 57th IN and was at the battles of Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville and retire in 1865.  He is a strong republican.   Mrs. Van Meter is a member of the Methodist church.  

Copied from: The 1880 History of Parke County, Indiana.  J. H.  Beadle.   Chicago: H. H. Hill

 

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