Pioneers of Marion County by Wm. Wm. M. Donnel, 1872

John Conrey

John Conrey, uncle of L. C. Conrey, settled where he still resides, a few miles south of Knoxville city, March 20, 1845, having made his claim and erected his cabin the fall previous. During the first year his nearest neighbors were from three to four miles distance, and his nearest convenience for breadstuffs was Bonaparte, Van Buren county.

Mr. C. relates an adventure that occurred in the spring following, of which Elisha Wilcutt, one of his neighbors, was the principal hero. He and Mr. Conrey had started on a hunting expedition; and after having traveled together two or three miles without seeing any game, they separated, hoping thereby to meet with better success. A few minutes after Mr. Wilcutt was surprised by five large timber wolves that came rushing down a hill, nearly abreast with each other, and met him in the most threatening manner. One large, black fellow seemed to be the leader of the gang, and fell a victim to the contents of Mr. W.'s rifle. But now having nothing to rely upon for further protection but his dogs and hunting knife, he felt the extreme danger of his situation, and called loudly for help. Mr. Conrey heard the report of the gun, and knew by the frightened cry of his comrade, that he was in trouble, and hastened to his relief. But, on reaching the scene of action he found Mr. Wilcutt, with the help of his dogs, the victor, having dispatched two more of the wolves, the remaining two having instinctively adopted the theory that discretion is the better part of valor and fled. The adventurers name the little creek near by Wolf Run, and it has been known by that name ever since.