"History of Wayne County, Indiana" by Andrew W. Young. pub 1872.  

pg 144

Abbington Twp.

In 1805, John Cox, from Kentucky, purchased the land of which the site of the 
present town of Abington is a part.  He died in March, 1811.  His death is said 
to have been the first in the township.  The land was inherited by his son John, 
whose sons were Joseph and John.  Joseph and his father lais out the town, the 
plat of which was recorded December 5, 1817.