JOHNSON'S GROVE MUTUAL PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION.
On the 23d inst. the citizens of Johnson's Grove and vicinity met and elected officers for the ensuing year for an organization known as the Johnson's Grove Mutual Protective Association. The preliminary arrangements having before been made and the object set forth, rules and regulations adopted, etc.
To show that we mean business, we quote from the principles set forth:
WHEREAS, our section of the country being infested with tramps and vagabonds and horse thieves, and the same having become an intolerable nuisance, we, the citizens of Johnson's Grove and vicinity, deem it necessary for the better protection of our families and property, to organize an association for that purpose; therefore, be it
Resolved, that while we are ever ready and willing to assist in cases of misfortune and distress, we are fully determined to enforce the law and bring to justice all offenders found among us, and to protect ourselves and property at all hazards.
If this fails to show that "Hannah is ailing," by calling on the association a second chapter will be gratuitously furnished, which, if taken according to directions, is warranted to cure or the money will be refunded and no questions asked. By order of Association.
Johnson's Grove, Iowa, May 27, 1878.
Last Saturday evening was a time of much rejoicing in the household of Freeman ELLIOTT of Johnson's Grove. The occasion was the eighteenth birthday of the elder daughter of the house. A goodly company of relatives and neighbors surprised the young lady who nevertheless was a model hostess. After a bountiful supper, consisting in part of "ye festive oyster," she was presented with many useful and beautiful presents, not the least among which was the deed of a farm, making her quite an extensive land owner. The donor of the last mentioned gift is the young lady's grandfather. Just where she is to pay taxes we are unable to state. As the clock reached the "hour of night's arch, the keystone," the company dispersed feeling that they had fully enjoyed themselves.—(Dec. 9, 1885.)
Richland township we would suppose from its name, "Rich Land," as being the most beautiful township of land in the sisterhood of townships; but it is not, and yet it is over an average. Richland has no town or post-office in it. A number of years ago Mr. W. M. Kelley was post-master of an office at his own house where he now resides. It was called " Johnson Grove Post-office." His duties as post-master seemed to be well performed as I had some reason to know. But a short time before the C. R. & M. River railroad reached the county the office was discontinued.
There were of the early settlers the following, and perhaps others: