In the early settlement of the Scioto valley, one of the greatest nuisances to the settlers was the large number of wolves infesting the country. These pests, although not specially dangerous, were continually killing the smaller and younger stock of the pioneers, so that it became a necessity to enact laws whereby to rid the settlement of them. At a meeting of the commissioners held on July 31, 1810, it was ordered "that there shall be allowed for all wolf scalps killed after the 1st day of March, 1810, within the boundaries of Madison county, that is over six months old, the sum of $2, and for all wolves killed within said boundaries that are under six months old, the sum of $1 for each scalp, by order of the board." The first person to take advantage of this law was Thomas Gwynne, who was paid $2 for an old wolf scalp in July, 1810. In September, Daniel Kent received $2 for an old wolf scalp, while William Atchison was paid $9 for the scalps of nine young wolves. These prices were paid for the purpose of exterminating the scourge, until September, 1817, at which time the law was abolished, yet the people kept up the war by regular hunts until none were left to spread havoc among the peaceful flocks and herds of Madison county.