Vandalia Railroad - Culver, Indiana Part 1 1881-1882  

A very interesting fact noted in the August 26, 1909 issue of the Culver Citizen is that: Though the Vandalia runs the entire length of the corporation, there isn't a single street railroad crossing in Culver a condition rarely found

Here is some interesting facts stated about the orginial property owners of the north side of the lake:

Zina and Emma Duddleson .... The grandfather of Zina was a Civil War veteran and a farmer. His later years were lived in the Argos vicinity.



The great-grandfather originally owned the Thomas Houghton farm to the Maxinkuckee Lake on the west side of Burr Oak Road.



The land now occupied by the Vandalia Park, was part of this farm and was given to Dr. Durr in payment for medical services. The consideration was $50., as great-grandfather Duddleson considered it of little farming value... - History of Marshall County Indiana Sesquicentenial 1836-1986, Taylor Publishing Co., 1986, Publication # 357 of 1422, Marshall County Historical Society pg. 153 - Marcella White.

This possibly was an very early attempt to establish a railroad:

One must remember that J. F. D. Lanier bought up the great portion of the "lake property" back the early 1830's and as found so far it seems he never resided within the area.

Evidence found is that land within what became Marmont and then Culver was sold to the The Madison & Indianapolis Railroad



J. F. D. and Elizabeth G. Lanier to The Madison & Indianapolis Railroad The Madison & Indianapolis Railroad to George Plant

There was another possible quest for a railroad link to Lake Maxinkuckee - as found:

Rochester Sentinel Saturday, July 19, 1873
The Atlantic & Chicago Railroad... The building of this line of road has become a fixed fact line located, and active work being done on it between Huntington, Ind., and Marion, Ohio. The only portion of the line not yet located, and on which there is a spirit of rivalry, is between Huntington and a point on the banks of Maxinkuckee lake, called Marmount. It is generally understood by our readers that the rival lines between these points are known as the Laketon, Akron and Rochester, and the Liberty Mills, Silver Lake, Sevastopol and Bloomingsburg lines.

Were there other attempts to establish a railroad line to Lake Maxinkuckee?

1880 Dec 1 - It is reported that the Plymouth and Maxinkuckee lake inhabitants are exceedinly anxious to get a railroad via South Bend and will subscride liberally towards such a porject. - South Bend Tribune.

1881 - May 28 - A New Railroad

Messrs J. H. Kendall and John W. Williams, of Terre Haute, were in the city last evening to consult with our manufactures and capitalistsm with respect to the extension of the Evansville and Terre Haute railroad to this city by way of Lake Maxinkuckee and Plymouth. Nothing definite was arrivedat, as our people are at present interested in the project of building the South Bend souther route to Plymouth this season. If this should not succeed then the Terre Haute route will be conosidered - South Bend Tribune

1881 - August 5 - Logansport Pharos Tribune August 5 & 11, 1881

Logansport and South Bend

The writer met Mr. Toner, of Kewana, this afternoon and had a talk with him regarding the proposed Logansport to South Bend raod.

Mr. Toner is a wealthy and prominent citizen of Kewanna and is greatly interested in the new road

He was with the two corps of surveyors are working hard to get the line run, and will have it completed by the latter part of next week

The line starts from the Southwestern bridge across the Wabash river, and follows the bed of the T. H. & L road to the Eel River depot.

From this point the Eel River track is followed until Horney creek is reached. The the line runs along near this stream, going through Smithtown and finally striking the line and running due north.

It will pass near Lake Maxinkuckee, and if the road is built, that station will be a very important one during the summer.

1881 - Aug 9 - Colonel Hill and other officials of the Vandalia road, will arrive in the city this evening. Their mission is supposed to pertain to the projected extension of the T. H, & L. - Logansport Journal

1881 - Aug 11 - Logansport Pharos Tribune - Logansport & Terre Haute Road

And its Proposed Extention to South Bend

The following is clipped from the South Bend Daily Times of Saturday last:

Hon W. R. McKeen, president; John G. Williams, solicitor, and J. R. Kendall, of the Vandalia raiload, and all residents of Terre Haute, P. S. Troulman, A. S. Toner and J. R. Leiter, of Kewanna, arrived in the city yesterday, by private conyeyance, having driven over the proposed road from Logansport, are stopping at the Oliver house.

These gentlemen come to the city in the interest of a proposed line from this city to Logansport, a full history of which was published in the Times about a month ago.

A road has been incorporated from Logansport to this city by the way of Kewana and Plymouth. This lines is some seventy miles long and almost an air line.

At Logansport the road would connect with a line already in operation to Terre Haute with all points south and west.

It will open up to this city the extensive coal fields of Clay county, and the almost inexhaustiblesupply of timber in southern Indiana.

A meeting was held at the parlors of the Oliver house last night, which was attended by our visitors and the officers of the South Bend Southern Road, as well as a number of our leading business men and manufactuers.

The meeting was called to order by Mr. Clem Studebaker. Mr. John G. Williams, attorney for the Vandalia road, stated that the representatives of the proposed road had visited this city for the purpose of determining whether the Logansport, Kewanna & South Bend road could make arrangements with the South Bend Southern for the construction of a continuous line of road to Logansport.

He described the connections of the lines and its advantages. He said they did not want to build the road unless they could obtain the line from this city to Logansport.

At the conclusion of Mr. Williams' remarks Judge Stansfield stated what steps had bevn taken by the company.

The officers of the South Bend Southern finally agreed to receive propositions for building the road from here to Plymouth up to August 30, and a meeting of the stockholders will be held at that time, at which the matter will be definitely settled whether the road will be constructed to Plymouth or to Logansport. The meeting then adjourned." From an official of the road it was learned that it is the intention of the company to construct a line from Logansport to South Bend, a distance of about seventy miles, provided it can be done at a reasonable cost; and with that object in view two corps of engineers, consisting of eight men each, will commence the survey today.

One of the corps will commence operations at Logansport and the other at a point in the center of the proposed line, both moving in the direction of South Bend.

Should the new line be built, it will give the Logansport road direct communication with Chicago, besides which it will connect with the Michigan Central road at South Bend, and the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago, and I., P. & C. railroad at Plymouth, thereby giving it communication with all points North, East and West

Since the present management has assumed control of the road they have been improving it as rapidly as circumstances would permit.

The work of relaying the track was commenced at Rockville some time ago and has been completed to a point seventy miles north of that place, the iron used being of a superior quality and weighing sixty pounds to the yard.

The road is also being substantially ballasted and new bridges and trestles are being constructed the entire length of the line. Up to the present time the company has built 3,683 feet of bridges and trestles and has laid down over 150,000 ties.

The business of the road has steadily increased under the new management, who have found it necessary to increase their rolling stock by the addition of 300 new freight cars.

By the above article the survey of the Vandalia was to have started already some time before 11 Aug 1881 for the extension from Logansport to Marmont to South Bend.

two corps of engineers, consisting of eight men each, will commence the survey today. One of the corps will commence operations at Logansport and the other at a point in the center of the proposed line, both moving in the direction of South Bend.

1881 - Aug 12 - Logansport Journal

Indianapolis Journal: "It has long been the intention of the L, P. and C. management to build a branch of their road from Plymouth to South Bend, but their procrastination has allowed another road to slip in and endeavor to get the prize, which may be considered a north and south road to South Bend, a city of wonderful manufacturing interests but awkward railroad connections.

Mr. J. R. Kendall, General Freight Agent of the Vandalia, who has been interested in the T. H. and L extension, and who was in the city yesterday, states that it is their intention now to put the road through South Bend into Michigan to a point on Lake Michigan.

South Bend should favor both roads equally, and endeavor to have them built, for the building of the T. H. and L. extension will give her a direct opening to the lakes and pine regions, and the building of the I., P. and C., direct communication with Indianapolis.

1881 August 16, Logansport Journal

The route surveyed for the proposed extension of the Terre Haute & Logansport road to South Bend passes close to Lake Maxinkuckee

In the event of the building of this road the drawback of a tiresome journey, necessary to reach the popular resort, will be done away with

1881 August 18 - Logansport Pharos Tribune

A well-informed railroad official is authority for the statement that the Logansport and South Bend road is a certainty.

He says that parties are now in the East negotiating the sale of bonds of the proposed road.

The survey is now completed, and at the Vandalia directors' meeting on the 30th, some positive action will be taken in thè matter. Our informant believes theroad will be completed within a year

1881 August 18 - Logansport Pharos Tribune

The Wabash road, which has been slowly trying to secure an extension of its new acquisition from Plymouth to South Bend, now finds a formidable enemy in the Vandalia line, which is determined, if possible, to secure a road from this city to South Bend and the pineries of Michigan

1881 August 18 - Logansport Pharos Tribune -

On the South Bend ...

It has long been the intention of the I. P.and C. management to build a branch of their road from Plymouth to South Bend, but their procrastination has allowed another road to slip in and endeavor to get the prize, which may be considered a north and south road to South Bend, a city of wonderful manufacturing interests but awkward railroad connections.

Mr. J. R. Kendall, general freight agent of the Vandalia, who has been interested in the T. H. and L. extension, and who was in the city yesterday, states that it is their intention now to put their road through South Bend into Michigan to a point on Lake Michigan. South Bend should favor both roads equally and endeavor to have them built, for the building of the T., H. & L. extension will give her a direct opening to the lakes and pine regions, and tjie building of the I., P. & C. direct communication with Indianapolis.

It might be further added that the building of the T., H. & L. extension will give South Bend direct communication with the Southwest where many of her manufactured articles are shipped.

1881 - August 18 The Evening Pharos (Logansport)

The civil engineers of the Vandalia road have completed the surveys of the proposed extension of the Terre Haute and Logansport road to South Bend, and have found a very feasible route, and one which the cost of constructing will be within estimates made prior to the survey.

The distance is seventy-two miles, and a portion of the way the country is rough and hilly, yet the engineers think that it can be built within a grade not to exceed forty feet per mile at any point

1881 - August 18 Logansport Daily Journal & August 20 - Logansport Weekly Journal & Logansport Chronicle

W. R. McKeen, President of the Vandalia Company, is in the East for the purpose of raising money to build the proposed extension of the T, H. & L. road to South Bend.

1881 - Aug 19 - Logansport Journal

The civil engineer of the Vandalia road have completed the survey of the proposed exteuticn of the T., H. & L. road from this city to South Bend.

The route adopted by the engineers is considered a very feasible one, and it is reckoned that the cost of construction will fall below the estimate made prior to the survey.

The distance of the road is 72 miles. Over a portion of the route the country is hilly yet the engineers think the road can be built with a grade not to exceed forty-two feet to the mile.

1881 - Aug 19 - Logansport Pharos Tribune

It seems almost certain that Logansport will soon become the terminus of two more railroads.

Surveys have been made of the line to Indianapolis and the managers promise to have the road completed to the crossing of the Lake Erie and Western by the first day of next December.

At the meeting of the Vandalia managers tomorrow the question of constructing the line from this city to South Bend will be settled

1881 - August 24 Logansport Evening Pharos & Sep 1 Logansport Pharos

The Indianapolis Journal says:

From a gentleman who has been in the northern part of the State for a few days past, we learn that the business men of South Bend, Plymouth and other points which the proposed extension of the Terre Haute and Logansport division of the Vandalia will strike are much elated over the enterprise, and are doing all in their power to encourage the work.

Captain Fitch, civil engineer of the Vandalia, expresses himself as satisfied that he has selected the most feasible route, which enters Marshall county, near the southwest corner, runs along the shore of Maxenkuckee lake, passing through Marmont; from there it continues north, crossing Yellow river near the Friend bridge; from there the route is northeast to Plymouth, running west of Twin Lake and east of Pretty Lake, passing west of the brewery through the Kesslinger farm, and crossing the P. F. W. and C. railroad, a few rods east of the first crossing west of the city limits.

This road built would open another excellent route north, and will open new markets for Brazil block coal, an item which, doubtless, President McKeene has just returned from New York has in view in building the road.

1881 - Aug. 25 - Aug. 25 - Logansport Journal - Extension of the T. H. & L. Line.

{the above article}

Mr. McKeen who has just returned from New York speaks quite encouraging as regards the enterprise, uet in his remrks he is somewhat reticent.

1881 - August 27, Logansport Weekly Journal & Logansport Chronicle

President McKeen, of the Vandalia Company, says it is not yet settled whether or not his company will build the railroad from Logansport to South Bend.

1881 - Aug. 27 - Logansport Weekly Journal

... It is also probable that the line will be extended from Logansport to South Bend. Both the I., P. & C. and the Vandalia Companies have been after this extension, but it is generally conceded that the last named will get It.

1991 - Aug 27 - Logansport Evening Pharos & Sep 1 Loganspot Pharos

In a conversation with a prominent citizen at this city who is acquainted with President McKean, of the Vandalia, we are led to believe that the extension of the Terre Haute & Logansport road will undoubtedly be built at an early day.

Mr. McKean favors the extension, and has the right idea of its value. From what we can leam the citizens of South Bend are also favorable to have the line completed.

From the present outlook the prospect for thw extenson of this line to South Bend at an early day is good.

It will be a good thing for Logansport, and our people should give the matter all the encouragement possible

1881 - August 30, - Logansport Pharos Tribune

The South Bend Tribune says that a meeting of officers and directors of the South Bend Southern (Logansport and South Bend) road was held in South Bend on the 25th inst.

The meeting was a purely business one, from which representatives of the press were excluded.

Hon. W. R Mc Keen, President of the Vandalia railroad, J. K. Kendall and Mr. Williams, all of Terre Haute, were present, while the South Bend Southern was represented by C. Studebaker, President, J. C. Knoblock, Secretary, and B. Coquilland, J. D. Gilver, Schuyler Colfax, J. F. Studebaker, Joseph Warden, P. E. Studebaker and Newton Jackson, director.

A proposition was received from the Vandalia Company for the construction of the road, but as the I. P. & C. road had submitted no proposition, it was decided to adjourn to September 7th, in order to hear from them and obtain the views of the stockholders of the South Beand. Southern

Indianapolis Journal.

Indications certainly are that the extension of the Terre Haute & Logansport division of the Vandalia line will be build. Last week W. R. McKeen, John G. Williams, and two other officials of the Vandalia, spent two or three days on the proposed line, and are encouraged over the prespects.

Business men at the towns on the line are much interested in the project, and there is much of a favorable character discernable.

The building of this insures the building as well as of the Indianapolis and Logansport road as the extension of the T. H. & L, will as well be the Northern division of the I. & L. road if built.

Just here the towns that the line will strike between Indianapolis and South Bend becomes a matter of interest, as now projected. In Hamilton county it will pass through Bethlehem, Westfield, Deming, Baers Corner and Boxley; in Tipton County - Tetersburg, Green Station, Normanda, Groomsville Russiaville; Howard county — Cornstalk, Poplar Grove; Cass county - Burlington, Carrolton, Sharon. Wheeling, Deer Creek, Logansport; Fulton county — Meta, Vemon, Kewana; Marshall county— Maxinkuckee. Wolf Creek, Plymouth, Linkvllle, La Paz; St Joe County — Lakeville, Prairie, South Bend

It will be seen that both projects above mentioned pass through some of the best agricultural counties in the State, and will also strike many manufacturing towns of considerable importance.

1881 August 31 Logansport Pharos Tribune

The latest report of the South Bend meeting: of railroad officials states that the Directors of the South Bend road refused to enter into any agreement with the Vandalia until the proposition to be submitted by the Wabash had been received aud considered

Both the Vandalia and the Wabash want to obtain control of the line now in course of construction between Plymouth and South Bend.

It is thought that the directors of the South Bend road favor the proposition made by the Vandalia, as it gives that city access to the coal fields or Parke county and a direct line to St. Louis

1881 - Dec 1 - Logansport Pharos Tribune

A construction company to build the Indianapolis and Logansport road is being organized.

The Vandalia people, it is stated, have abandoned the idea of extending the Terre Haute and Logansport division from Logansport to South Bend.

1881 - Sep 1 - Logansport Pharos Tribune Indianapolis Times: W. R. McKeen, President of the Vandalia Road, says it is not settled as yet as to whether or not they build the extension from Logansport to South Bend, about which so much has been said recently.

1881 - Sep 1 Logansport Evening Pharos & Sept 3 Logansport Chronicle & Logansport Weekly Journal

Indianapolis Times:—It is now pretty well understood that the Vandalia will build the extension projected some time ago. from Logansport to South Bend. No particulars are given at the present time.

1881 - Dec 1 - Logansport Journal & Dec 3 Logansport Chroncile

It is believed that the Vandalia Company has abandoned the idea of extending the Terre Haute and- Logansport Division to South Bend.

1881 - Dec 1 - Logansport Daily Pharos & Dec 7 Logansport Weekly Pharos

The Vandalia people, it is stated, have abandoned the idea of extending the Terre Haute and Logansport division on from Logansport to South Bend.

1882 - Jul 13 - From the Logansport Pharos Tribune:

The Vandalia Exentsion

A. B. Fitch and party of engineers are in the city for the purpose of completing the location for the building of the extension of the T. H, & L. division of the Vandalia from this point to intersect the Nickel Plated railroad, five miles beyond Lake Maxenkuckee, a distance of thirty-two, miles.

The preliminary survey, was made one year ago by Fitch and party, and the location survey will be made and the work of building the extension, if it be so decided, will commence within the next two weeks.

The survey party numbers nine members and is at present stopping at the Gehring house. The survey was commenced today and will take the best part of a week for its completion.

1882 - Jul 12 - Logansport Journal

Indianaiapolis Times: "The new corporation organized to build the Indianapolis, Logansport and Chicago Railroad has secured almost two-thirds of the right of way between this city and Logansport, and has been promised considerable local aid along the route.

The Secretary of the Company, S. N. Yeoman, has written to J. C. Knoblack. Secretary of the South Bend Southern, inquiring if some arrrangement can not be made whereby these two companies may effect a consolidation with the Logansport, Kewana and South Bend Railroad (tbeVandalia branch) for building a road between South Band and Indianapolis.

The South Bend Southern Directors are disposed to look upon the project with, good deal of favor, but are unable to do anything at present, owing to their contract with the Wabash Company, the limitation of,which expires October 1. South Bend seems bound to have a southern outlet.

1882 - Jul 14 - Logansport Journal

The project of extending the T. H. & L. division of the Vandalia road north from this city has been revived.

Engineer Fitch arrived in the city yesterday at the head of a survey party to locate a line which is expected to intercept the New York, Chicago & St. Louis road five miles north of Lake Maxenkuckee, with a view of extending it tnence to South Bend.

The advantage of such a road to Logansport and its importance as a feeder ro the Vandalia can be seen at a glance.

The same route was partially surveyed year ago, and a repetition of the work would indicate that the Vandalia is in earnest.

1882 - Jul 14 - From the Logansport Pharos Tribune - Tbe Extension Project.

Last evening the Pharos announced the arrival of A. B. Fitch and a party of engineers from Terre Haute, in this city, for the purpose of locating the extension line of the T. H. & L. division of the Vandalia to meet the Nickle-Plated line just beyond Lake Maxinkuckee. Since that time an attache of the Pharos had a conversation with Mr. Fitch relative to the route of the prospective extension.

It was found that the location line would follow the route of the Eel River to where Horney's creek empties into the river just east of the gravel pit, thence north following the meandering of the creek until reaching range line one east. From that point the line will point directly north, passing through Noble and Harrison townships of this county and on to Lake Maxenkuckee. From a point five miles beyond Maxenkuckee the road it is said wiil be built to South Bend, provided, however, the citizens of that place ask it, and extend the proper inducements.

Kewanna it is understood will assist in building the road by voting a subsidy.

The project is considered a most promising one as the chief engineer has informed us the worst grade will be only forty-five feet to the mile.

The Vandalia officials we are told will act on the matter of extension as soon as the proper plans of the location here are completed and presented to them, in order that the road be completed in time to catch the ice harvest of Maxenkuckee this winter.

Articles of incorporation have been drawn up some time and the scheme, which is a good one, and one of interest to Logansport begins to take form. The engineers are at present busy surveying the proposed route.

1882 - Jul 15 - From the Logansport Pharos Tribune

Indianapolis Journal: An extension of the T. H. and L. division of the Vandalia, from Logansport to a connection with the New York, Chicago, and St. Louis road, seems to have been fully determined upon.

Intersection will be made at a point five miles beyond Lake Maxenkuckee. It will be necessary to build thirty-two miles of road.

A. B. Fitch and a party of engineers are now locating the line, and the understanding is that the building of the extension will be commenced at once.

1882 - July 15 - Logansport Journal - The route now being surveyed by the Vandalia for its northern extension will follow the Eel River track to Horney's creek and there branch off to the north. The line will cross the Michigan pike in Jootown and will cross the Logansport & Pleasant Grovepike near the farm of William Reighter.

1882 - July 16 - Logansport Journal - It is believed that the extension of the Vandalia road, north from this city, is assured. Mr. Al Toner, of Kewana, and other capitalists interested, have guaranteed the company the right of way and a subsidy of $30,000 to aid in the construction of the road to Kewana - Logansport Journal

1882 - Jul 18 - Logansport Daily Pharos - Indianapolis Journal: "There seems little doubt that the extension of the T. H. & L. division of the Vandalia road northward spoken of in the Journal, last week, will be carried out, as on the proposed line much interest has been taken and a right of way guaranteed. Capitalists in Kewann'a have also promised $30,000 to aid the project

1882 - July 19 - Logansport Weekly -

Last evening the Pharos announced the aiiival of A. 6. Fitch and a party of engineers from Terre Haute; in this city, for the purpose of locating the extension line of the T. H. & L. division of the Vandalia to meet the Nickle Plated llne just beyond Lake Maxinkuckee.

Since that time an attache of the Pharos had a conversation with Mr. Fitch relative to the route of the prospective extension.

It was found that the location line would follow the route of the Eei Biver to where Horaey's creek empties into the river just east of the gravel pit thence north following the meandering of the creek until reaching range line one east. From that point the line will point, directiy north, passing through Noble and Harrison townships of this county and on to Lake Maxenkuckee.

From a point five miles beyond Maxenkuckee the road it Is said will be built to South Bend, provided, however, the citizens of that place ask it and extend the proper inducements.

Kewanna it is understood will assist in building the road by voting a subsidy.

The project is considered a most promising one as the chief engineer has informed us the worst grade will be only forty-five feet to the mile.

The Vandalia officials we are told will act on the matter of extension as soon as the proper plans of the location here are completed and presented to them, in order that the road _y be completed in time to catch the ice harvest of Maxenkuckee this winter.

Articles of incorporation have been drawn up some time and the scheme, which is a good one, and one of interest to Logansport begins to takeform.

The engineers are at present busy surveying the proposed route.

1882 - July 22 - Logansport Weekly Journal - There seems little doubt that the extension of the T. H. & I. division of the Vandalia road northward, whichhas been agitated for some time, will be carried out, as on the proposed line much interest his been taken and a right of way guaranteed. Capitalists in Kewana have also promised $30,000 aid to the project - - - The route now Being surveyed by tH Vandalia for its northern extension will follow the Eel River track to Horney's creek and there branch off to the north. The line will cross the Michigan pike in Jootown and will cross the Logansport & Pleasant Grove Pike near the farm of William Reighter

1882 - July 25 - From the Logansport Pharos Tribune - The Fitch surveyinrg party, who have been locating a line for the extension of the Vandalia railway to South Bend, have so far made but little progress. For the last few davs the party have heea running preliminary lines about the city. Today the party went two miles north of the city to take up the line where left off some days since.

1882 - Jul 29 - From the Logansport Pharos Tribune

Rochester Sentinel: "Kewanna has good hopes of securing a railroad

A corps of engineers are now at work surveying a line from Logansport to Lake Maxinkuckee, and between those two points it is a certainty that the road will be built, as the demands that will be made upon the people along the line will be promptly met

It will be an extension of the Vandalia line northward from Logansport. Kewanna is an enterprising place and has a class of citizens in and about the village who will not be cogent until a railroad is built through their township that will put them in connection with the entire world.

1882 - Aug 3 - From the Logansport Pharos Tribune:

Lafayette Courier: "A new route promised to Lake Maxenkuckee, by way of Logansport.

A corps of engineers are now at work surveying a line from Logansport to Lake Maxenkuckee, and between these two points it is a certainty that the road will be built, as the demands that will be made upon the people along the line wiil be promptly met. It will be an extension of the Vandalia line northward, from Logansport to Kewana."

It seems that the lake colony was a might ruffled over the proposal of the railroad coming to Marmont and Lake Maxinkuckee as found in the Logansport Pharos Tribune August 12 1992

The question of building the extention of tbe Vandalia to South Bend, touching the lake, is at present causing not a little comment, parties who have bought property and built fine cottages express themselves as not being in favor of having closer railroad conveniences; claiming that it would be a source of cheap transportation and would carry rough excursionists to the lake.

Information from a reliable source is to the effect that the Vandalia company has bought land at the lake for a station house and that the building of the extension is assured

1881 - Jul 19 - Logansport Weekly Pharos Thursday

A. B. Fitch and party of engineers are in the city for the purpose of completing the location for the building of the extension of the T. H,& L. division of the Vandalia from this point to intersect the Nickle Plated rairoad, five miles beyond Lake Maxenkuckee, a distance of thirty-two miles.

The preliminàry survey was made one year ago by Fiteh and party, and the location survey will be made and work of buildlng the extension, if it be so decided, will commence within the next two weeks.

The survey, party numbers nine members and is as present stopping at the Gehring house.

The survey was commenced today and will take the best part of a week for its completion

Friday:

Last evening the Pharos announced the arrival of A. B. Fitch and a psrty of engineers from Terre Haute; in this city, for the purpose of locating the extension line of the T. H. & L. division of the Vandalia to the NicklePlated line just beyond Lake Maxinkuckee.

Since that time an attache of the Pharos had a conversation with Mr. Fitch relative to the route of the prospective extension.

It was found that the location line would follow the route of the Eel River to where Horaey's creek empties into the river just east of the gravel pit thence north following the meandering of the creek until reaching range line one east- From that point the line will point, directiy north, passing through Noble andd Harrison townships of this county and on to Lake Maxenkuckee.

From at point five miles beyond Maxenkuckee the road it is said will be built to South Bend, provided, however, the citizens of that place ask it and extend the proper inducements.

Kewanna it is understood will assist in building the road by voting a subsidy.

The project is considered a most promising one as the chief engineer has informed us the worst grade will be only forty-five feet to the mile.

The Vandalia offcials weare told will act on the matter of extension as soon as the proper plans of the location here are completed and presented to them, inorder that the road to be completedin time to catch the next harvest of Maxenkuckee this winter.

Articles of incorporation have been drawn up some time and the scheme, which is a good one, and one of interest to Logansport begins to take form.

The engineers are at present busy surveying the proposed route.

1882 Aug. 3 - Logansport Pharos Tribune - Lafayette Courier: A new route promised to Lake Maxeukuckee, by way of Logansport. A corps of engineers are now at work surveying a line from Logansport to Lake Maxenkuckee, and between these two points it is a certainty that the road will be built, as the demands that will be made upon the people along the line willbe promptly met. It will be an extension of the Vandalia line northward, from Logansport to Kewana

1882 - Aug 10 - Logansport Pharos Tribune - "Indianapolis Journal: 'President McKeen states that everything looks farorable to the extension of the T. H. and L. division of the Vandalia, from Logansport to a connection with the New York, Chicago and St. Louis road."

1882 - Aug 12 - Logansport Weekly Journal - L.ake Maxlnkuckee.

This Western Saratoga is becoming every year more popular. A scheme ii now on foot to connect this resort by rail with Plymouth next season, and if it is accomplished the Plymouth Club, now located at the lake, will subscibe $10,000 to the road in the way of stock ...

1882 - Aug 12 - Logansport Journal -

Terre Haute Express: "A number of prominent citizens of Kewannee, Fulton county, were in the city yesterday, conferring with President McKeen and the Vandalia officials, regarding the extension of the T. H. & L. northward.

The public-spirited citizens of that place guarantee to raise a subsidy for the road, in addition to procuring the right of way, and the visit of yesterday was to report progress.

Satisfactory progress is reported in the work, and the extension of the road can be set down as an assured thing.

Work will most likely be commenced this fall."

1882 - August 12 Logansport Pharos Tribune

Maxinkuckee... The question of building the extention of tbe Vandalia to South Bend, touching the lake, is at present causing not a little comment, Parties who have bought property and built fine cottages express themselves as not being in favor of having closer railroad conveniences claiming that it would be a source of cheap transportation and would carry rough excursionists to the lake.

Information from a reliable source is to the effect that the Vandalia company has bought land at the lake for a station house and that the building of the extension is assured.

1882 - Aug 15 - From the Logansport Pharos Tribune and the Logansport Weekly Pharos - August 16, 1882:

THE VANDALIA EXTENSION

What a Kewana Citizen Thinks of the Projects Prospects Etc.

The extending of the Vandalia line from this city to South Bend, via Kewana and Marmont, a station just west of Maxenkuckee, in Marshall county, is getting to be the principal ssurce of discussion in Indiana railroad circles.

Daily the prospects of the road being built are becoming more flattering, and a citizen of Kewana, who was questioned by our reporter,expressed his belief that the road was now among the certainties.

He said the foremost citizens of his town were putting forth their utmost efforts to aid the project and in fact some had really set aside all business and had given their entire attention to the scheme.

Some time during September, probably the 14th, Union and Wayne townships, of Fulton county, will hold an election for the purpose of voting on the question of giving the Vandalia railroad the tax asked, by them to assist in building the extension.

Kewana, by her enterprising citizens, has already offered a large purse, which was made up by special collection.

Thus the amount demanded of the two townships in Fulton county will at all events be secured. The road, if built, will pass through Wayne, Union and Aubbeenaubbee townships of Fulton county.

The latter named has not been asked for a subsidy as it recently voted a tax to the Chicago and Pacific railroad and according to law is barred from voting aid to the Vandalia project.

Al Toner, one of Kewanna's influential citizens, is that sure of the road being Built that he purchased twenty-six acres of land at Lake Maxinkuckee probably for speculative purposes. The land purchased is on the present site where it is thought the depot will be located.

The citizens of Marmont are not behind in agitating the benefits to be derived from the building of the road, and will, it is understood, aid in its construction by giving liberally of their wealth.

The project is a good one, and will be beneficial to Logansport; hence the Pharos wishes tne scheme success.

From Maxenkuckee items in Plymouth Democrat

We are informed that Mr. Forgy, of Logansport, has purchased a quantity of the marsh between Marmont and the lake We are also informed by a gentleman from Kewana, that the railroad from Logansport north is located as far as Buroaks, in this township, where it forms a junction with the Nickel Plate Koad, and that the company have near 500 hands at work, and expect to complete the work to Kewanna this fall.

1882 - Aug. 19 - Rochester Sentinel

A corps of engineers have been engaged for several days past surveying a line for a railroad from Logansport to the north side of Maxinkuckee, where it intersects with the N.Y.C. & St.L. railway. This proposed new road runs through Wayne and Union townships, Kewanna, in Union, being the chief point between Logansport and the terminus.

1882 - Aug. 23 - Logansport Weekly Pharos - Forgetting politics for a moment, I rubbed up against Mr. Al Tonrer, of Kewana, and asked him about the proposed extension of the Vandalia railroad north from Logansport He is sangume of the ultimate building of the line, and said the prospects are that the track will be built, and the cars running as far North as Kewana before winter

1882 Aug 24 - Logansport Pharos Tribune AN IMPORTANT CONFERENCE

The Vandalia Officials and Citizens of Fulton Coumy Meet and Converse Relative to thie Railroad Extension Project

This afternoon a conference of more than usual interest was held at the New Barnett hotel.

The meeting was that of the Vandalia officials and citizens of Fulton county in a capacious room at that hotel. At 2 o'clock the, meeting was called to order and Mr. Cristie, of Wayne township, Fulton county, was called upon to state the object of the meeting. He began by saying that the meeting was simply to hear the railroad company's view on the subject snd to express themselves, that the company might know how they stand. Mr. P. S. Troutman was made chairman of the meeting and Mr. James Cristie secretary

Those present at the meeting; according to the Secretary's minute were President W. K. McKean, John G. Wililiams, Attorney: 0. B. Fitch, Chief Engineer. and J. E. Kendall, General Freight Agent, all Vandalia officials, and Messrs. A. D. Toner,. H. Phillips, J. W. Hntchinson, A. J. Toner,-J. W. Bronthoffen of Kewanna. Jacob Stukey, Rev. F. M. Eliott; B. P. Elliott, Moses Barnett, Michael Sumott, Seering Marsch, G. W. Knesing, S. M. Grabell. and J. J. Carter of Wayne township. Fulton county.

Mr WIlliams, attorney for the railroad spoke on behalf of the roadrail and he was followed by A. D. Tonar and J. F. Wilson, who responded on behalf ot the citizensof Fulton county.

Mr. Elliott spoke favoring the building of the road on a range liine in the eastern part of Wayne township, as also did Mr. Cristie. They said that unless the road was built along said line there was some doubt of the taxz being vooted.

Mr. Williams then arose and said that the railroad company could not afford to build the road along the west line, as the cost was too great.

Captain Fitch, engineer of the railroad company, said that it would cost one and a half times as much to build the road along the east line as it would along the west line.

The Pharos tomorrow will give a more complete account of the conference, as time and space will not permit us to do so today. The meeting was generally satisfactory, and adjourned sine die.

1881 - 24 Aug - Indianapolis Journal

From a gentleman who has been in the northern part of the State for a few days past, we learn that the business men of South Bend, Plymouth and other points which the proposed extension of the Terre Haute and Logansport division of the Vandalia will strike are much elated over the enterprise,and are doing all in their power to encourage the work.

Capt. Fitch, civil engineer of the Vandaiia, expresses himself as satisfied that he has selected the most feasible route, which enters Marshall county near the southwest corner, runs along the shore of Maxinkuckee lake, passing through Marmont; from there it continues north, crossing Yellow river near the Friend bridge: from there the route is northeast to Plymouth, running west to Twin Lakes and east to Pretty lake, passing west to the brewery through the Keesslinger farm and crossing the P. F. W. & C. railroad a few rods east of the first crossing west of the city limits.

This road built would open another excellent route north, and will open new markets for Brazil block coal, an item, which, doubtless, President McKeene, who has just returned from New York, has in view in building the road - Logansport Evening Pharos

1882 - Aug 25 - From the - Logansport Journal - The Vandalia

For sometime the people of Kewana and those along the proposed line of the extension of the Vandalia road have been discussing the matter of the extension of the Vandalia road.

The matter has been thoroughly discused by the newspapers, and the benefits of a northern extension from Logausport to Maramont, near Lake Maxkinkuckee, opening up a country that would be much increased in value by this extension.

The railroad officials agreed, upon the new road, on condition that the right of way and $30,000 be votedto them.

The first line of survey took in Fletcher's Lake and there of pleased the Wayne township people. The other survey does not take in the lake, but goes by about three miles from the lake.

Yesterday a meeting was held in this city of the Vandalia officials, and those most interested in the project to see if any definite plan could be determined upon.

Among those present were President W. R. McKean, John G. Williams, attorney; O. B. Fitch, Chief Engineer, and J. R. Kendall, General Freight Agent, all Vandalia officials; and Messrs. A. D. Toner, J. W. Brouthoffen, of Kewanna; J. Stukey, Rev. F. M. Elliott, B. P. Elliott, Moses Barnett, Michael Surnott, Seering Marsch, G. W. Knesing, S. M. Grabell and J. J. Carter, of Wayne township Fulton county.

The meeting was held at the Barnett House, Mr. James Christie, of Wayne township, Fulton county, taking the chair, and P. S. Troutman, of Union township, Fulton county; Acting as secretary. Tho meeting was held solely to discuss the matter of the extension and all freely expressed their opinions on the subject. The two townships mostly benefited by this new road are Wayne and Union. Union township offers to furnish $20,000 of tbe amount wanted if Wayne would furnish the balance

But by the survey taking in Fletcher's Lake the expense, as figured out by O. B. Fitch, chief engineer of this road, would be ore and one-half times as much as tbe other survey. This seems to be the sticking point, and it was thought by this meeting the matter could be settled so they would not have to wait until the township election, on the subject, but they could guarantee the right of way and money.

But as the matter now stands nothing can be done until the election on the 14th of September. The Union township people are quite enthusiastic in the work while the Wayne people are only luke warm. The people were very much pleased with thee treatment received at the hands of the Vandalia people.

So the matter rests and nothing further will probably be done until after the election iu tbe townships in September, when they will vote on the subjrct whether to give the required amount and right of way.

1882 - Aug. 25 - From the Logansport Pharos Tribune - The Vandalia Extension

The result of the conference held yesterday between officers of the Vandalia railroad and citizens of Fulton county, was a decision by the officers that they could not afford to change the line of the proposed route.

As now located, the line passed nearly through the center of Wayne township, Fulton county. The delegation from Fulton county, who were here yesterday desired to have the line changed so that it would pass through the eastern part of Wayne township, and touch Fletcher's lake.

This route, as has heretofore been stated, would cost a half more than the other, by reason of rough grounds, grades, etc. For this reason the company decided against making any change.

The agreement between the Vandalia Company and the citizens of Fulton county is this:
The company agreed to extend its road from Logansport north to Marmour [Marmont] or Lake Maxinkuckee, a distance of about thirty miles, provided the right of way be secured, and $30,000 in money appropriated to it.


The citizens of Fulton county amnounce that they will have no special trouble in securing the right of way through their own county and raising the neessarymoney for the approritation.

All they ask from Cass county is the right of way.

Some time ago the matter of raising money for this object by private subscription, was begun in this city in a quiet way. The result was that several citizens subscribed quite liberally. among others, Elliot, Shroyer & Co. gave $500 and E.S. Rice $200.

Now that the project is assuming shape so rapidly, the matter of subscription is to be pushed. Within a few days a committee composed of leading business men will canvass the city for subscriptions.

The amount necessary to purchase the right of way through this county is estimated at $8,000. This sum it is thought, can easily be raised by subscriptions.

The road if built will be of great benefit to Logansport, it being understood that it is to be built north from Mamont to South Bend, this will give direct connections between the pineries of the north and the coal fields of Indiana, thus insuring the road a paying traffic from the start.

Our citizens are asked to give the matter of the donation their attention with the view of profiting by it. In case of the final extension of the road to South Bend, Logansport would be about equally distant between Terre Haute and South Bend, thus giving us prospects of becoming the terminal end of two divisions of the road, and possibly securing the location here of the shops and round-houses

1882 - Aug. 26 - Logansport Chronicle - THE proposed extention of the Vandalia road to Marmont near Maxenkuckee is a project that will be highly beneficial to Logansport, and an effort should be made by our people to secure the completion of same. True, there will be no public levy, but the citizens ought and no doubt will subscribe liberally, The amount necessary te be raised in this section is $8,000. If the road only employed twenty men in this place it would more than pay this amount to our people besides having a direct road to the North. We hope some enterprising citizen will take a subscription poper out during the week and see what can be done to futher the projects

1882 - Aug. 26 - Logansport Weekly Journal - The Vandalia

For sometime the people of Kewana and those along the proposed line of the extension of the Vandaila road have been discussing tbe matter of the extension of tbe Vandalia road.

The matter had been thoroughly discussed by the news papers, and the benefits of a northern extension from Logansport to Maramont, near Lake Maxinkuckee, opening up a country that wojuld be much increased in value by this extension.

The railroad offical agreed upon the new road, on condition that the right of way and $30,000 be voted to them.

The first line of survey took to Fletcher's Like and thereby pleased the Wayne township people. The other survey does not take in the lake, but goes by about three miles from the lake.

Yesterday a meeting was held in this city of the Vandalia officials, and those most interested in the project to see if any definite plan could be determined upon. Among those present were President W. R McKean, John G. Williams, attorney; O. B Fitch, Chief Engineer, and J. R. Kendall, General Freight Agent, all Vandalia officials; and Messrs. A. D. Toner, J. W. Bouthoffen, of Kewanna; J Stukey, Rev. F. M. Ellott, B P. Elliott, Moses Barnett, Michael Sunott, Seering Maisch, G. W. Knesing, S. M. Grabell, and J. J. Carter, of Wayne towinship, Fulton county.

The meeting was held the Barnett House, Mr. James Crisite of Wayne township, Fulton county taking the chair, and P. S. Ttroutman Union township, Fulton county acting as secretary.

The meeting was held solely to discuss the matter of the extension and all freely expressed opinions on the subject.

The twp townships mostly benefied by the new road are Wayne and Union township.

Union township offers to furnish $20,000 of the amounty wanted if Wayne would furnish the balance.

But by the survey taking in Fletcher's Lake the expense, as figgured by O. B. Fitch, chief engineer of rthe oad, would be one and one-half __ as much as the other survey. This seems to be the sticking point and it was was thought by this meeting the matter could be settled so they would not have to wait until the township election on the the subject but they could guarantee the right of way and monery

But as the matter now stands nothing can be don ulton the elcetion on the 14th of September

The Union township people are quite enthusastic in the work while the Wayne people are only luke warm.

The perople were very much pleased with the treatment received at the hands of the Vandalia people.

So the matter rests nothing further will probably be done until after the election in the townships in September, when they will vote on the subject whether to give the required amount and right, of way.

1882 Aug. 26 - Logansport Daily Pharos - Captain Fitch's surveying party, at work laying out a location for the Vandalia extension, will reach the Nickle-Plated line near Maxinkuckee during the coming week

1882 - Aug. 26 - Logansport Weekly Journal - Captain A. P. Fitch, of Terre Haute, was in the City yesterday, with a party of Vandalia officials looking over the ground and the surveys made for the northern extension of the Vandalia road. This is an important issue to the Terre Haute people as also to the people of Logansport. If the road is continued North as is talked of, it will open up a northern connection with the New York, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad. At the meeting next Saturday at Terre Haute, of the stockholders of this division of the Vandalia road, they will take action as to the Northern extension of the line/ The Vandalia people are in dead earnest, and if they decideon this extension, it will be pushed through in short order.

1882 - Aug 27 From the Logansport Daily Journal page 3:

Important Enterprise

All the preliminaries for the extension of the Logansport branch of the Vandalia railway to Lake Michigan have been satisfactorily adjusted, and upon compliiance with a few easy conditions the contact will be closed, and the work will be commenced and pushed to completion.

Readers of the Journal are familiar with the route of this line to Marmont (Maxinkuckee), and will have no difficulty in following it to South Bend and the lake.

Its importance to Logansport is manifest. It opens a comparatively new field for our merchants and manufactures, and gives our citizens superior advantages in the freightage of lumber, salt and other products of Michigan and the Northwest. It opens a harbor on the great lakes, which may in the near future be a competitor with Toledo for our grain.

It places Logansport as a near neighbor to one of the finest summer resorts in the west.

A special advantage to this city, also is suggested in its location at a point about half way between the terminal of the proposed line, which fact, in connection with the general relation of the city to Pennsylvania leased lines interests, is full of promise of new shops, or garage accessions to those already in operation.

With these advantages before them, our citizens are asked to consider one of the conditions above named, which condition is that the right of way shall be furnished free to the new line thorugh our county.

The estimated cost of this right of way is from $7,000 to $10,000 and it is proposed to raise the amount by subscription. A considerable portion of this subscription has already been secured, and a committee appointed for that purpose will make an effort to raise the remainder during the present week.

The Journal trusts that there will be no failure in this matter. The amount names is trifling in comparison with the benefits promised in the success of this enterprise, and every citizen who is called upon should promptly give all the aid in his power.

1882 - Aug. 20 & 30 - Logansport Weekly Pharos

Tuesday - The work of soliciting subscriptions with which to secure the right of way for the Vandalia extension, will probably be begun on Thursday of this week.

1882 - Aug 29 Logansport Pharos Tribune & Logansport Journal

The Vandalia Extension.

Indianapolis Journal: The stockholders of the Terre Haute and Logansport division of the Vandalia met in Terre Haute, Saturday, to take action upon the extension, of the road north from Logansport.

The resolution required by law, for an extension to South Bend, was adopted but final action was left with the board of directors who will only take further steps, provided certain propositions to aid the company, made by land owners along the line of the proposed extension are carried out.

The citizens along the proposed extension are at work obtaining right of way and donations, and on the results of their labors will depend the extension of the line.

But so heartily are said citizens taking hold of the enterprise that there is but little doubt as to the extension of the road, which will make the T. H. & L. an important division of the Vandalia."

1882 - Aug 30 - Logansport Pharos Tribune - Messrs. J. R. Kendall, H. Cushing and George E. Farring, Vandalia officials with headquarters at Terre Haute, were in the city today, looking up the interests of the Vandalia extension. They were at the New Barnett

1882 - September 2 - Logansport Pharos Tribune & September 6 - Logansport Weekly Pharos - $2.000 Already,

Yesterday Messrs. A. R. Shroyer, E. S. Rice, A. D, Toner, W. H. Snyder and L.B. Patterson commenced soliciting subscriptions of the business men of he city to aid in building the proposed Vandalia extension from this point to South Bend.

They have called upon a number of business men so far, and today the subscription list after being footed up showed that something like $2,000 had already been- subscribed.

This is a very good showing. The men who have the list in charge are doinggood'work and it is expected that within the next few days the required amount, $8,000, will be contributed. Let the good work go on.

1882 - September 2 - Logansport Weekly Journal

Important Enterprize

All the preliminaries for the extension of the Logansport branch of the Vandalia railway to Lake Michigan have been satisfactorily adjusted, and upon compliance with a few easy conditions the contract will be closed, and the work will be commenced and pushed to completion.

+ Readers of the Journal are familiar with the route of this line to Marmont (Maxinkuckee), and will have no difficulty in following it to South Bend and the lake.

Its importance to Logansport is manifest. It opens a comparatively new field for our merchants and manufacturers, and gives our citizsus superior advantages in the freightage of lumber, sale and other products of Michigan and the Northwest. It opens a harbor on the great lakes, which may in the near future be a competitor with Toledo for our grain.

It places Logansport as near neighbor to one of the finest summer resorts in the West. A special advantage to this city, also, is suggested in its location at a point about half way between the terminial of the proposed line, which fact, in connection with the general relation ofthe city to Pennsylvania leased lines interests, is full of promise of new shops, or large accessions to those already in operation. With these advantages before them, our citizens are asked to consider one of the above named, which condition is that the right of way shall be furnished free to the new line through our county.

The estimated cost of this right of way is from $7,000 to $10,000, and it is proposed to raise the amount by subscription.

A considerable portion of this subscription has already been secured, and a committee appointed for that purpose will make an effort to raise the remainder during the present week.

The Journal trusts that there will be no failure in this matter. The amount named is trifling in comparison with the benefits promised in the success of this enterprise, and every citizen who is called upon should promptly give all the aid in his power

1882 - September 5 - Logansport Pharos Tribune - M. A. 0. Packard, of Plymouth, was in the city today, in the interest of the Vandalia extension. He is enthusiastically in favor of the enterprise. His visit to Logansport has thoroughly convinced him that Plymouth needs direct communication with the "City of Bridges." Mr Packard is president of the First National bank of Plymouth, and his influence will be invaluable adjunct to the Vandalia project.

1882 - Sepember 9 - Logansport Weekly Journal

Rochester Republican: "It is not altogether improbable that Fulton county will soon have a third railroad.

This time the citizens of Wayne and Union townships are directly interested. Thepeople in Kewanna and those in the neighborhood surrounding, have for several years been laboring to securea railroad to that point, and when the Vandalia people began to talk about extending a line northward from Logansport, striking Kewanna. it may be supposed that that enterprising cmmunity was wide awake and ready to take hold of the matter at once.

If built the road will cross both Wayne and Union townships, and at a special session of the Commissioners Court a few weeks ago permission was granted to the citizens of those townships to hold an election to vote a tax of two per cent, to aid in its construction.

This election will be held on Thursday, September 14, and from the indications now, the amount desired will be raised in this way.

It cannot be said that this road will benefit the county seat very materially, but it will be a great help to that portion of the county.

We hope hear a favorable report from the election.

1882 - Sep 13 - Logansport Weekly Pharos - The conimittee appointed to solicit subscriptions to aid in building the Vandalia extension, have thus far raised about$3,000. The amount required is $7,000, which it is thought will be raised.

1882 - September 15 - Logansport Pharos Tribune - The townships in Fulton county interested in the building of the Vandalia extension voted yesterday upon the question of giving a subsidy to aid in building the extension. At the time of this writing the result of the election is unknown in Logansport.

1882 - September 15 - Logansport Pharos Tribune

Wayne Township Votes No.

Thursday, Union and Wayne townships, of Fulton county, held an election to determine whether or not to aid in the building of the Vandalia extension from here to South Bend, by voting on the subsidy asked— $8,OOO.

A good deal of interest was shown at the polls, and the major portion of the voters of both townships turned out and voted. When the votes in Wayne township had been counted, it was found that the project was beaten by one hundred votes. That is, a majority of one hundred over all the voters in that township, were against giving the subsidy.

The result of the election in Union township was that the subsidy was carried by a majority of forty votes over all votes in the township. Thus the matter stands. Of the §16,000 expected from the two townships in that county, $8,000 have been voted.

Whether this will effect the project in any degree, is hardly known at present, but it is rather thought that it will, as the railroad men who are looking after the interests of the proposed extension, are not at all satisfied with the way Wayne township has treated them.

The trouble with the dissenting township is said to be this: The residents of that township were dissatisfied with the laid out route of the road and voted "no" on the subsidy simply on that account.

Today Engineer Fitch, of the Vandalia, and A. D.Toner, of Kewana, went to Terre Haute, for the purpose of conferring with ths Vandalia officials relative to the result of Thursday's vote.

Until something is heard as to what conclusion was arrived at by the officials, everybody is in the dark as to what will be done in the future. The committee of citizens of this city soliciting subscriptions to aid the scheme is at a standstill, and will do nothing further until hearing from headquarters.

1882 September 27, Logansport Weekly Pharos - Monday - The committee soliciting Vandalia extension subscriptions have raised the sum to $3,000.

This looks more favorable and the entire amount will probably be raised this week, at least Wayne township is trying hard to raise the $8,000 by subscription, and we are creditably informed they are sùcceeding admirably

1882 - September 30 - Logansport Chronicle - Logansport at last will have a new road. Work has already been commenced on the Vandalia extension towards Maxinkuckee. Let the bulgine belch.

1882 - October 1 - Logansport Journal - The manager of the Vandalia extension were over to the city yesterday looking over the list of subscribers who had donated for this work. They expressed it as their determination, so far as they could, to trade with the merchants who haid thus been liberal in their behalf

1882 - October 4 Logansport Weekly Pharos Monday

Today Capt. Eaden commenced active operations on the Vandalia extension with his large force of workmen and teams.

Yesterday a number of extra team arrived thus making the amount of help at present quite large.

Work was to have beeen commence first on the Wilson place, but on account of not having the matter of the right of way through the place settled, it was commenced on Mr. Puterbaugh's place, about one mile north of the city on Horney's creek

The camps have been completed, and the work of grading commenced in good earnest.

Capt. Eaden is a go-ahead man, and will push the work of grading his part of the contract as fast as possible.

The committee on subscription are still at work, and they have thus far raised about $3,700.

The citizens of Kewana request the publication of the names of the men who contributed to the enterprise, that they, when in want of goods can purchase them of the men who contributed to their interest.

The list will be published about the latter part of the week, so there is still an opportunity for any who are Inclined to contribute.

Tuesday

The plat of the Vandalia extension has been filed in the county clerk's office. It was executed by engineer Fitch.

Wednesday

The people of Logansport and Cass county will be pleased to learn that the building of an extension of the Vandalia railroad,north from this city, is now an assured fact, and that on tomorrow, actual work on the same will be commenced.

Today, Capt. Fitch and a party of surveyors were engaged in setting grade-stakes, and the principal contractor, Mr. Eaton, will at once begin the work of grading.

He already has a number of teams on the ground,and will increase the number as rapidly as practicable

The first ground will be broken at a point on the Eel River railroad almost directly across the river from the pump house. The hill situated there will be cut down, and the grading will then proceed northwesterly along the meauderings of Homey creek until level ground is reached.

It is the purpose of the Vandaiia company to push the work ahead with great vigor, and before Christmas they expect have the track between Logansport and Kewanna completed.

The people of Kewanna, who by the way have done so much toward securing the building of the extension, are so confident that the road will be completed by the time stated, that they will hold their wheat crop with a view of shipping it to Logansport by rail.

Logansport citizens who are soliciting subscriptions for aiding in the construction of the extension, are still at work.

The amount they are to raise is $5,000 and of this sum about $3,000 have been subscribed. While the work of buildng the extention is about to begin, this will in no way relieve Cass county from paying her share.

In fact before the Vandalia company consented to begin operations certain enterprising citizens agreed that the full amount would be raised. It is now only a question of whether our citizens will come forward with liberal hands and make up the deficiency or whether they will allow it to fall heavily on a few men, and we believe the former plan will be adopted.

The building of the extension will necessitate the expenditure of fully $100,000 Logansport and Cass county this fall and winter, and coming, as it does, at a time when there is little for the laborer to do, will be of untold benefit to this class people.

Our merchants will he benefited greatly, from the fact that their sales will be increased considerably on account of the presence in the county of an increased number of laborers, contractors, etc.

Thursday

Today the work of building the northern extension of the Vandalia from this point was commenced.

Mr. Eaton, who has been given the contract to build the firstthree miles and so on, has already a number of men and teams on the ground near Wilson's hill, where the work is to be commenced.

The men today were hard at work arranging their camp, and tomorrow the work of grading will go on in good steam. Twenty five mule teams arrived in the city last night from Terre Haute; which, together with many more to be yet hired, will push the grading along ata rapid rate.

A reporter, enthusiastic in the good, cause, took a view at the commencing scene this morning, and found things just as above stated.

Captain A. B. Fiteh aand party of engineers are still setting grade stakes.

They have thus far got everything in tip top order for the graders who have commenced their part of the job by organizing a camp breaking the sod and getting everything in readiness to begin active operations tomorrow.

The project is, meeting with general favor from monied men now that the building of the road is a certainty, and the committee soliciting subscrptions are meeting with much better success.

The men raising funds to secure the right of way through Cass county pledged themselves to raise the $5,000 which amount will, it is thought be raised this week at all events.

Some of the land owners through whose farms the railroad will pass have already been settled with by the Vandalia company, by giving them the amount of damages asked.

The right of way throegh Cass county would have cost much more than it has, but for the road mnning along Horney's creek,which takes up much less valuable land than it would have -done otherwise.

The men who have the great and good project in hand, will push the work on toward completion with all possible force, and a ride over the road is a thing of the near future. Let the good work go on.

Friday

Captain Eaton and his force of workmen are still engaged arranging their camps, buying supplies and finding boarding houses. When all this has been completed the active work of grading will be commenced and pushed to completion.

Captain Fitch and party of engineers are still setting grade stakes. They will have their work finished in a few days

The committee soliciting aid to pay for the right of way through Cass county are still at work, add the subscription list now foots up something over $3,500.

Logansport has already been benefitted by the road in that hundreds of dollars have already been paid to our merchants for tools, supplies, etc.

1882 - Oct 10 Logansport Pharos Tribune -

The citizens of Plymouth, as has heretofore been mentioned in the columns, are determined to secure the Vandalia extension at their town.

Their last attempt is to communicate the matter to President McKeen, who as yet has given them no decided answer.

They will give $30.000 to have the road touch at their place, and they will give it freely.

What they want is a closer business connection with South Bend, and this is the only way they can accomplish such a connection.

On the other hand South Bend wants them, and so the matter stands with the $3O.OOO staring the Vandalia men right in the face.

A movement is on foot by which the Vandalia officials will visit Plymouth in a few days and confer with the Plymonthites relative to this important subject We predict that Plymouth will secure the road.

1882 Oct. 10, issue of Logansport Daily Journal pg. 5:

The Plymouth people are very much interested in the Vandalia extension also much so that one of their citizens was sent up here, last Saturday, to confer with those officials of the road who might be here to press their claims for the passing of the road through their city.

Mr. S. L. McKelvey, one of Plymouth's representative men, interested in the real estate buiness there was the one sent. He arrived here Saturday morning and went back to Plymouth the evening of the same day, as none of the high officials of the Vandalia were in the city on that day, it is not known how successful his visit was.

In the route laid out for the extension, by the surveyors, the road leaves this city and from here extends to Marmont, near Maxinkuckee. From there taking a direct line to South Bend, the route goes within about five miles of Plymouth.

The citizens of the place are anxious that the road should take in their place, giving them the benefit of a connection with South Bend, something which the two named cities have been planning for the last several years.

The only means of communication between the two cities now is carried on by means of the stage, which plies the of Michigan road three times a week. A traveler now to reach South Bend from Plymouth is compelled to go to Laporte and change cars there for South Bend. So the benefit of this road to that place is made clear.

1882 - October 10 - Logansport Pharos Tribune -

A. D. Toner, of Kewanna, has the contractof building five miles of the Vandalia extension.

Securing the right of way through Cass county for the Vandalia extension is causing the railroad company some money and no little trouble. One man on the North Side whose lot at the highest price, is not worth more than $300, asks $2,000 damages to let the track pass through its center. When asked why he placed this exorbitant price on his land, he said: "Why you see it is valuable land. I can raise three crops a year on my land." Numerous other cases have been reported that are equally as ridiculous.

1882 - October 11 Logansport Weekly Pharos - Work on the Vandalia Booming

The work of grading the line of the Vandalia extension, preparatory to laying the ties and rails is progressing finely.

Tbe force of men and teams have in Captain Eaden a good pusher, and everything is in first-class working order. At the present rate, the first three miles, or Mr. Eaden's part of the contract, will be completed in a few weeks.

The main force is at present grading on the Puterbaugh farm, and has some eight hundred feet ready for the ties. The timber along the line on the Puterbaugh farm is being cut down and will be converted into ties.

On the Wilson farm a nine foot cut is being made from Hoober'sgrocery to the stone mill. This is a rather hilly place, and requires not a little cutting down.

The valley or low place just north of the Eel river railroad track, is being filled up with the earth taken from the hill.

A posse of bridge carpenters are planting a pile driver near the Mobley property, up the creek, preparatory to building a small bridge.

1882 - October - Logansport Journal - Indianapolis Journal: "Work on the Vandalia extension is moving along briskly. The contracts have been let out in small portions, that there may be no unnecessary delay. The residents of Plymouth and South Bend are bent on getting the road. They bidding liberally, and no doubt will get it. One man in South Bend agrees to give $10,000, while the business men of that town and Plymouth are donating equally as freely. The more these towns bid, the sooner they will get the road. St. Jo., Michigan, the northern terminus of the extension, it is said, will be reached in one year."

1882 - October 21 - Logansport Chronicle - The $5000 needed for the way for the northern extension of the Vandalia has not yet been secured

1882 - Oct 24 - Logansport Pharos Tribune - Work on the extension of the Vandalia North continues to be pushed earnestly. A ride over the proposed route for a few miles found the men all hard at work and progressing nicely. The road when completed will pass through a fertile portion of the State, which heretofore has been rather secluded. Several hundred dollars are still wnted to make the $5,000 asked of our business citizens

1882 - October 24 - Logansport Journal The New Railroad.

By the kindness of Mr. L. G. Patterson, a Journal representative has had the opportunity of seeing the progress of the work on the Vandalia extension from the city four miles out, and he was greatly surprised to find that so much had been done.

The heavy cut on the North Side is well on toward completion, and all along the four miles railroad bed looms up in many spots.

Further out, Mr. A. D. Toner has one of his five contracted miles ready for the ties, and the entire work from this city to Kewana is just humming along to be finished before the frost of January.

It will then be left to settle during the winter, and be ready for the iron early in the spring.

The work so far is first-class and that standard is to be maintained to the end.

A portion of the sum guaranteed from this city has not yet been subscribed, and the matter will be presented to our citizens this week.

The Journal trusts that the committee raising the money will meet prompt and liberal responses from our citizens.

This railroad can not fail to be very beneficial to Logansport, and our people can not afford to be backward in giving it the small aid asked for.

1882 - November 1 - Logansport Weekly Pharos In the case of the Terre Haiite and Loganspoit railroad company vs. Crawford and Henry Morrell, the court appointed John Bright, John, Palmer and John Campbell to appraise certain property north of the city, that has been condemned for right of way purposes for the northern extension of the Vandalia

Monday - Mr. Al . Toner, of Kewanna was in town to day and we took advantage of his presence to learn something of the progress of the work of grading for the Vandalia extension. He thinks that by Wednesday, he will have completed three of the five miles of his contract. The contractor next to him will have a mile finished at the same time and already a number of miles are completed. Mr. Toner said there was not a mile between here and Kewanna, but what had its men at work. He thinks that by December first, the pading between Logansport and Kewanna will be completed. Mr. Toner employs fifty teams and seventy workmen on his contract.

1882 - November 5 - Logansport Journal - The work on the Vandalia extension s progressing finely. The pleasant weather oJ the last two weeks has been n the favor of the workmen and the grading has been pushed forward very rapidly.

1882 - November 6 Logansport Pharos Tribune

Is What the Right of Way Through Cass County for the Vandalia Extension Cost

Mr. A. D. Toner of Kewana, who has taken ail active part in securing the right of way for the Vandalia extension throughthis county, reports as follows. It will be seen from the report that with but one exception the right of way has been secured:

B. Bundy	$	0140.00
Richard Winn		0200.00
Malinda Whitfield		0250.00
Catherine Brown		0800.00
John Newman		0500.00
William Funston		0500.00
Thomas Jamison		0070.00
Mary Jamison		0175.00
Stebbins Powell, guardian of William Jamison		0175.00
Sarah E. and stebbins Powell		0200.00
Thomas Castle		0160.00
Sarah A. Dritt		0080.00
J.N. Adair		0200.00
Silas McDowell		0575.00
Jemima Tippett and Heirs		0100.00
Jese Taber		0700.00
William Michael		0020.00
John Rouch		0700.00
Thomas J. W. Clary		0015.00
L.B. Custer		1000.00
Robert Barnett		0375.00
David D Barnett		0400.00
Levi H. Brown		0750.00
Charles S. Puterbaugh		0850.00
		9,035 00



The total cost of the right of way in Cass county with the exception of George Reeder. - A. D. TONER.

From the above it will be seen that the right to extend the Vandalia line through Cass county has cost something over nine thousand dollars.

The citizens of Kewana agreed to and have paid that amount.

The prime movers in the extension project did not ask Cass county or the citizens of the county for one cent to aid in building the extension.

The citizens of that place, enthusiastic on getting the road to pass through their town, have paid the nine thousand dollars and are happy.

A number of the buiness men of this city, thinking Logansport would be benefited by the road set about to raise $5,000 to help the Kewana folks in paying for the light of way through this county.

The committee having on hand the task to raise the $5,000 have been hard at wurk for some weeks past, and thus lar have succeeded in raising only $3,500.

Thus it will be seen the committee is still in want of $1,500, which amount should be promptly subscribed.

1882 - November 7 - Logansport Journal - The Vandalia

The extension of the Vandalia Railroad through our county has been watched with much, interest by our citizens.

In it they see a means of adding much to the growth of our county and the improvement of our city.

The road has with little difficulty, secured the right of way through our. county.

Below is given the names of the parties through whose farms the road has passed and the cost of the rignt of way: {see the chart above}

When the project was first talked of our citizens showed an enterprising spirit and seemed to be willing to do their share towards securing the extension.

The sum named to be raised by this city was $5,000, and a committee was appointed to attend to the raising of that sum.

About $3,500 was raised without any difficulty before the work of extending toe road was begun, Upon the strength of this the committee guaranteed tbe company the $5.000 and the work of putting the track through the county was begun.

Since then the subscriptions have come in very slowand it begins to look as if the remaining sum would not be raised.

Our citizens should promptly step to the front and donate something towards making up this sum. Let the matter be given your careful consideration and see to it that this sum is raised at once and the committee released.

1882 - November 10 - Logansport Pharos Tribune The work of grading for the Vandalia extension Is about half finished between this city and Kewanna

1882 - November 11 Logansport Weekly Journal - The Logansport extension oi the Vandalia will be graded ready for the laying of track to Kewana, in about two weeks. The work is being rapidly pushed forward. North of Logansport there is a large hill, which will have to be cut through, and several houses in the suburbs of the city will have to be moved from the route of the extension.

1882 - November 15 = Logansport Weekly Pharos - Indianapolis News: "The Vandalia SOuth Bend will be built as far as junction with the "Nickle Plate" road at Marmont near Maxenkuckee lake, this winter, and int he spring it will be pushed ahead rapidly thorugh to South Bend.

1882 - November 18 - Logansport Weekly Journal Very encouraging reports come in about the Vandalia extension. The grading is progressing very rapidly and is being finished up in fine style

1882 - November 22 Logansport Pharos Tribune Large numbers of men and teams are at work on the Vandalia extension hauling gravel to fill up the low places with, and A new trestle is being erected across Horneyy creek at a point near Zook's stone mill, nil with favorable weather, the work will be pushed rapidly forward

1882 - November 22 Logansport Weekly Pharos - Indianapolis Journal: "The McKeen syndicate, who are building the extension of the Logansport division of the Vandaliahave adopted the old method of building railroads: raising the money needed above subsidies on the stock. When the road is completed, should they choose to place a bonded indebtedness upon it, they have something genuine in the way of security to show capitalists who purchase the bonds. If any bonded debt is placed on the road it will be light—one on which the interest will not absorb all earnings above operating expenses. Mr. McKeen proposes that, like the Terre Haute & Indianapolis, stockholders shall be paid semi-annual dividends with regularity. Indications are that the extension, when completed, will be a valuable property, and will as well, make the Logansportdivision, entire, more valuable thiough the business the extension will throw upon it."

Logansport Journal November 24, 1882 About $1,200 yet remains to be subscribed for the Vandalia extension

Logansport Journal November 25, 1882 Work on the Vandalia extension Is being forwarded as rapidly as possible The favorable weather of the last few weeks has been well improved by them It begins to look as if our Fourth of July excursion to South Bend is a sure thing.

Logansport Weekly Journal November 25, 1882 The McKeen syndicate has purch asad several hundred tons of steel rails, to lay on the Logknsport division of tha Vandalia immediately Within tba next eighteen months It is proposed that this entire division shall be laid with Steele rails.

Logansport Journal December 3, 1882 Sink Hole

The men employed in grading for tha Vandalia extension are having some trouble with sink holes.

From Civil Engineer Osmer it is learned that about three and one-half miles from the city a small one has been troubling the granding party.

This one is not very large but the amount of earth it has taken in is wonderful.

The men dump gravel Into the hole and bring the ground up to the level of the grade, when in a few days it will be back to its old condition. Constant filling in seems to have no effect, there apparently being a bottomless pit uaderneath.

About eight miles from the city is another of these sink holes, much larger than the other and which is giving the men much more trouble.

Like a hungry animal it takes in carload after car-load of earth and is still ready for more. It is a place about ten feat across and twenty-five feet long.

An unseen lake must be hid away beneath.

Logansport Journal December 5, 1882 - The Vandalia extension contractors are having some trouble with their men ia regard to wages. The contractor, Mr. Edson. who has the building of the first few miles, has seen fit to make the working hours only nine now on account of the shortness of the days. He has been paying the men $1.60 per day. Deducting one hour's work from this, of course followed the reduced number of working hours. This new order of things did not suit the men, and Monday they declared their disapproval by quiting work. In other words a strike was put in force. It is not known what the result will be.

Logansport Journal December 7, 1882 - Last Sunday the Contractors on the Vandalia extention started a man by the name of Jackson with a wagon to chase some groceries for feeding the men. He arrived here safely and bought his groceries, and then proceeded to fill up. This was the last trace they had of him. The officers of the city •were notified and it was not until yesterday that Marshal Foley got trace of the stuff He found the groceries at the residence of a Mr. Smith on the West Side The parties where tne stuff was found claimed that Jack-jon came there drunk and left tho taoceries in the front yard. They claim to know nothing of how the gooda came there The man Jackson has departed for parts unknown.

Logansport Journal December 8, 1882 Work on the Vandalia extension was suspended yesterday on account of the bitter cold.

Logansport Chronicle December 9, 1882 The t. rouble existing between the Vandalia men and contractor Eaden settled, and the men are again at work.

Logansport Pharos Tribune December 11, 1882 Mr. Farrington, secretary aud treasurer oJ the Vandalia, is in the city ior the purpose of paying contractors OH the T. H. & L. extension.

Logansport Weekly Pharos December 13, 1882 Indianapolis 'Journal: From a party who last week came over the extension of the Vandalia north from Logansport, is learned that the construction work is moving along briskly and, with ten days more of good weather, the first 23 miles will be in readiness to lay the track. There several extensive gravel banks along the line, and, after the track is surfaced up, a heavy coat of gravel can ne put on at small expense

Logansport Weekly Journal December 23, 1882 Indianapolis News: "President Me- Keen, of the Vandalia, was in the city today. he says that twenty miles of the South Bend division are gradedand ready for the rails, and that work goes steadily on, regardless of the cold weather. Advantage has been taken of the cheap market and 5,000 tons of steel rails purchased at what was recentlty regarded as a fair valuation for iron

Logansport Pharos Tribune December 29, 1882 Capt Fitch and a party of engineers passedd through the city, yesterday, on their waynorth. They have been ordered to run lines from a point where the Vandalia extension strikes the "Nickel Plate" road, northward towards South Beud. Several lines are to be run, aftert which the most available will be selected.

Logansport Pharos Tribune December 30, 1882 Tho Vandalia has begun work again on the extension. The new line crosses Michigan avenue, two feet above the present grade of that thoroughfare, necessitating a fill. This work is now being done.

Part One ~~ Part Two ~~ Part Three ~~ Part Four ~~ Part Five ~~ Part Six