John DeWitt
Who was one of the first settlers, was born in Clark County, Kentucky. Accompanied by his uncle, Fredrick Bray, and his brothers, Henry and Gabriel, he left his native soil and came to this state, settling in Ross County; this was in the year 1806. The party traveled the entire distance on foot; all Kentuckians were great hunters and therefore good travelers. It is said that Henry Dewitt frequently walked seventy-five miles in a single day. Dewitt remained in Ross County two years and while there entered into the bonds of matrimony with Miss Polly Barker. Soon after the marriage the young couple removed to Fayette County, settling on land located four miles southeast of Washington. Jesse, the youngest son, is at present living on the original homestead. He purchased a small farm at first but added to the same and finally owned several thousand acres. This land was originally owned by Baron Steuben, McKay, Duncan McArthur and others, and is situated in Wayne Township. In 1812 Mr. Dewitt volunteered to assist in defending the Americans against the British and their allies, the Indians, and was stationed at Upper Sandusky, where he remained until peace was declared. He was one of the first constables, was then elected justice of the peace and held the position for many years. He was considered one of the best hunters, hunting being a favorite pastime with him. When the first court was established in this county, the legal talent of Chillicothe were in the habit of leaving their homes on the day preceding the opening of court, travel to the house of Dewitt and remain over night; there they were always accorded a warm reception. Governors McArthur, Allen and Thurman, were frequent guests at his house. Ministers of all denominations made his house their headquarters, meetings being held there. He was a member of the Baptist church, always voted the Democratic ticket, and enjoyed good health until a short time prior to his death. His union with Miss Barker was blessed with eleven children: Eveline, intermarried with William Orr (now dead); Jane, wife of James Allen, at present residing in Missouri; Anderson, living at Washington, C. H., in this county; Darlington, now a resident of Iowa; Decatur, died at the age of 30; Rachel, married Wesley Prior, now living in Missouri; Peter G., on part of the homestead; John, occupies a portion of the homestead; Jesse, residing in the old house; Candice, intermarried with Dr. Goldsberry, of Washington, this county; one child died in infancy.
