The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Today, a new baby is joyfully welcomed in the environs of a germ-free hospital, but in the early days of Henderson County a neighbor lady might assist in the birth or it might become the duty of the prospective proud father to help.
Henderson Richey was the first white child born in South Henderson Township and Mary Ryason, daughter of James Ryason, was the second and also the first white girl.
Her father journeyed all the way to Monmouth to fetch the midwife, Mrs. Mary Gilson, as no doctor was near.
The charge for the service was $3.00. That seems like a very small amount to us today, but in the late 1820's that was a great sum as very few had actual hard cash.
When we view such glimpses back into history, we must remember to put everything in perspective.
1882 History of Henderson County