Note 139 — {187} CHAPTER XXX

The home of General McArthur was known as “Fruit Hill.” Duncan McArthur was of Scotch parentage, born in New York in 1772. Left early to his own resources, he volunteered under Harmar in 1791, worked at the Maysville salt-works, and in 1793 became chain-bearer for General Massie in the latter’s survey of Ohio lands. McArthur’s industry and capacity soon secured his promotion to the position of assistant surveyor, and by judicious choice of lands he acquired wealth and prominence. Having been major-general of Ohio militia for some years, his services were called for in the War of 1812-15, and he was at Detroit when it was surrendered by Hull. Released on parole, he was elected to Congress, whence he resigned to become brigadier-general in the army, and served in the Western division thereof throughout the war. Later began his political career, consisting of two terms in Congress (1822-26), and the governorship of Ohio (1830). But as an anti-Jacksonian, he failed of re-election, and retired to “Fruit Hill” where he died in 1840.—Ed.