AUTHOR'S PREFACE.---PERRY COUNTY. 

     Some eight years ago the idea presented itself that a history of 
Perry county might be written, or compiled and published, which would
be of permanent value and benefit.   Not long after I began collecting
materials and, as time and opportunity permitted, preparing the manuscript.
Not being able to secure sufficient capital to bring out the work
as desired, the publication was necessarily delayed, and finally the
manuscript disposed of to A. A. GRAHAM, who was regularly engaged
in publishing county histories.  He concluded to publish Perry
and Fairfield counties together; hence, the present volume. The Perry
County History is, with slight modifications, the same as contemplated
by the author several years ago.
     In addition to the direct credits given in the book, the author is, of
course, indebted to various sources for information, including the county
newspapers, "Ohio in the War," and a large number of citizens, who
have manifested an interest in the work.  The late J.W. STINCHCOMB,
of Nebraska, furnished many of the facts concerning early history
of Thorn township, and T. SPENCER STILLMAN, of Somerset, 
contributed most of the information in relation to the old Scioto and
Hocking Valley Railroad.  Mr. WILL PEOPLES gathered most of the
information for the township histories of Madison, Bearfield, and
Pleasant townships, and presented it in form very nearly as published.
     It is possible that such a publication should be free from errors,
though great pains have been taken to make the history fair, correct
and trustworthy, and one that will increase in interest and value as the
years pass away.
     If it may appear, in some respects, that proportionate space has not
been given to matters of equal interest, it should be remembered that
available materials are not the same in all cases, and that persons from 
whom information must necessarily be obtained are not always equally
ready of able to give it.  Nevertheless, it has been the aim of the author
and compiler to accord a fair and impartial presentation of all subjects
and matters embraced within the scope of the work.
     I have had no control over the Biographical department, though
that will, no doubt, prove to be one of the most interesting features of
the volume.
     "With malice towards none," and charity and good will toward all,
the Perry County History is respectfully submitted to the consideration
of patrons and readers.                                                   E. S. COLBURN,
                                                                                                            AUTHOR