Beaver County Genealogy Trails Capt. Charles C. TOWNSEND
Biographies
CAPT. CHARLES C. TOWNSEND, whose portrait we take pleasure in presenting on the opposite page,
is senior member of the well-known firm of C. C. & E. P. Townsend, manufacturers of wire, rivets,
and wire -nails. This is one of the oldest enterprises in Beaver county, and was established by the
grandfather of Charles C., in 1828. The plant is located on the west side of the Beaver River in the
village of Fallston, and it has been gradually enlarged from time to time until it is recognized as
one of the largest enterprises of its kind west of the Alleghanies. Capt. Townsend is a son of William P.,
a grandson of Robert, and a great-grandson of Benjamin Townsend, and was born in
Allegheny, Pa., although he has been a resident of New Brighton since he was ten years of age.
Robert Townsend was born on a farm near Brownsville, Washington county, Pa., April 9, 1790.
He was engaged in the wire business at Baltimore, Md., until 1816, and then established a
similar business on Market street, between First and Second avenues, Pittsburg. In 1828,
he started the first wire plant west of the Alleghanies, at Fallston, Pa., -it also being
the first iron business in Beaver county. The machinery of this plant was run by water,
though a large part of the work was done by hand. In his latter years, he retired from
active business, and erected a handsome residence on Third avenue, New Brighton; this
property is now owned by his grandson, Edward P. Townsend. Mr. Townsend was of Quaker
stock,-a very liberal and charitable man,-and enjoyed the friendship of a host of
acquaintances. He passed from this life at the age of seventy-seven years. His wife was
Deborah Colman, who was born in England, and came to the United States when a girl of
sixteen years; she died aged eighty-five years. They were the parents of eight children:
William P.; Mary; Sabina; Elizabeth; John M.; Caroline; Lydia, and George.
William Penn Townsend, the father of the subject hereof, received his education
in the schools at Pittsburg, and at an early age entered the employ of his father,-beginning
as a clerk. In 184o, he and his cousin were taken in as partners, the firm name becoming
R. Townsend & Company; in 1864, he became sole proprietor. He enlarged the plant,
gave employment to many more hands, and put in new and improved machinery. Mr. Townsend
delighted in traveling and spent many years in journeying throughout the United States
and Europe. He entered the haven of rest at the age of seventy-eight years.
He was joined in marriage with Sarah A. Champlin, a daughter of Matthew F. Champlin,
of New York State; she still resides in New Brighton, has passed the eightieth year of her
life, and is surrounded by many old friends and neighbors, who hold her in tender esteem.
She is the mother of five children: Charles C.; Edward P.; Amelia; Elizabeth, and Helen.
Although Mr. Townsend was reared a Quaker, he and his wife became members of the
Presbyterian church.
Charles C. Townsend attended Pittsburg University, and at the age
of fifteen years became a clerk in his father's office. When the War of the Rebellion
broke out, he enlisted as a private in the Ninth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, but
was shortly afterward transferred to the First Pennsylvania Cavalry; with the rank of adjutant.
After serving two years in the Army of the Potomac, he was discharged on account of poor
health. Returning home, he and his brother, Edward P., were taken in as partners with their
father, and in 1894 the sons became sole proprietors of the establishment, the firm name being
changed to C. C. & E. P. Townsend. They have enlarged the plant, have added the manufacture
of wire nails of all sizes, and give employment to about one hundred hands. This is one
of the largest enterprises in Beaver county, as well as one of the first. Captain Charles C.
Townsend's sons, who now assist in running the plant, are the fourth generation of Townsends
who have been interested in this factory. Mr. Townsend is very enterprising, gives his
hearty support to those measures which tend to promote the general welfare and bring
prosperity to the community, and is recognized by his many friends and acquaintances as a
good neighbor and loyal citizen. He resides in the old Bradford residence in New Brighton.
He has served as vice-president of the National Bank of New Brighton since 1896, and has also
represented this district in the Fifty-first Congress, from 1889 to 1891.
Capt. C. C. Townsend was married to Miss Juliet Bradford, a daughter of Benjamin Rush
Bradford, and they are the parents of the following children : Juliette; Gertrude, who died
aged twenty-two years; William P., Jr., superintendent of the company warehouse;
Vincent Bradford, clerk for the company; Charles C., Jr., of the mechanical department;
Benjamin Rush, and John M., an assistant clerk in the company's office. Religiously,
Mr. Townsend is a member of the Presbyterian church, in which he is ruling elder.
Socially, he belongs to Edwin M. Stanton Post, No. 208, G. A. R., of which he is past commander.
In his political affiliations, he is a stanch Republican.
Fred N. BEEGLE
FRED N. BEEGLE, secretary and treasurer of the Union Drawn Steel Co., of Beaver Falls, Pa.,
is a thorough business man and understands all the details of the steel business. Largely
through his energy, the business has increased to its present volume. The firm now enjoys
a splendid foreign, as well as a large domestic, trade. The subject of this sketch was born
at Millersburg, Ohio, May 21, 1863, and received his scholastic training in the public
schools of his native town, taking a finishing course at the High School of North Manchester,
Indiana. At the age of sixteen, lie began life for himself, and in April, 1880, located
in Beaver Falls, where he was clerk in a grocery store for a few months, subsequently
entering the employ of the Western Union File Works, of the same place. Tie remained with
the latter company about five months, as "tester" of files, and then began business on his
own account. Opening a wholesale and retail produce business, he continued that very
successfully for a couple of years, then sold out to excellent advantage, and spent the
following year traveling in the West. Returning to Beaver Fails, Mr. Beegle became manager
of a grocery store for B. B. Todd for about two and a half years. He then accepted a
position as order clerk for the Hartman Steel Co. of the same place; during his three years'
service with that company he worked himself up to the position of assistant chief clerk.
At the close of that time, the Hartman plant was purchased by Carnegie, Fipps &
Company, and Mr. Beegle became chief shipping clerk. One year later he was transferred to
their Thirty-third street mill in Pittsburg. This change, however, did not prove a satisfactory
one to Mr. Beegle, and he resigned after a few months' service. Very soon afterwards,
on November 16, 1899, he entered the employ of the Union Drawn Steel Co., of Beaver Falls,
as assistant superintendent. About one year later the company was re-organized, and
Mr. Beegle became a stockholder, being also elected secretary and treasurer of the concern.
When our subject first became associated with the company, the capacity of the plant was
only 2,000 tons per year, of cold drawn steel., Under Mr. Beegle's able management of the
business end the output has constantly increased, and every second year a new building has
been added and the capacity of the plant at the present time is 30,000 tons annually.
In 1880, Mr. Beegle was united in marriage with Nellie Heath, a daughter of Rev.
Mr. Heath, of Oberlin, Ohio. They have one son, Clifford, in whom all their hopes are centered.
In his political views, the subject of this record is a Republican, and takes great interest
in party successes, but is too busy a man to take an active part in politics or to have
political aspirations. He is a son of Benjamin and Lucinda (Corns) Beegle.
Benjamin Beegle was born in Bedford County, Pa., and was a cabinet maker by
trade. He went to Millersburg, Holmes county, Ohio, in 1846, and lived there the remainder
of his days. His death occurred in 1882, at the age of seventy-two years. Lucinda Corns,
a charming lady and a native of Lancaster county, Pa., became his wife, but laid down the
burden of life at the early age of thirty-six. She left the following children to mourn
her demise: Benjamin F.; Joseph; Thomas (deceased) ; Rollin A.; John ; Edward;
Lucy M. (Brady), deceased; and Fred N., the subject of this brief sketch. The elder
Mr. Beegle was a firm believer in the Jacksonian principles of Democracy. He was a true
gentleman, intelligent, courteous, and refined, just the kind of a man to make a lasting
impression of good on all societies, which were fortunate enough to number him among their
members. He favored the Lutheran church.
Fred N. Beegle is a live, enterprising business man, and merits the success which
he is meeting in all his endeavors. He is an honest and straightforward citizen and has made
many friends both in private and commercial life.
WILLIAM G. ALGEO, Sr., of Beaver Falls, enjoys the distinction of being the oldest
undertaker of Beaver county, Pennsylvania. He was born in Allegheny City, Pa., May 14, 1830,
and is a son of Gregg Algeo, who was also born in Allegheny City, where he was reared and
received his intellectual training. He embarked in mercantile pursuits at Pittsburg, Pa.,
and followed that occupation until cut off by death at the age of fifty years. He was joined
in marriage with Susanna Gibson, a daughter of Rev. Robert Gibson. Mrs. Algeo was a native
of New Jersey and departed this life at the age of forty-five years. They were Covenanters
in their religious views, and reared six children, all of whom are now deceased except
William G., the subject of this sketch. The following are their names: Rebecca; William G.;
Margaret (Pasco) ; Sarah J. (Robinson) ; William G., subject of this sketch; and Elizabeth.
William G. Algeo, Sr., obtained his education in the institutions of his native city.
After leaving school, he began to learn the cabinet maker's trade with T. B. Young & Co., in
1846, remaining with that company until 1850. After working at his trade as a journeyman for
a brief period, Mr. Algeo began business on his own account as a furniture dealer in
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. He continued in that business with a great deal of success until 1860,
when he became associated with Robert Fairman in the undertaking business. In 1864, they
established the first coffin factory west of the Alleghany Mountains, and manufactured for
the trade exclusively. The firm was then known as the Excelsior Coffin & Casket Works and
was composed of Hamilton, Algeo, Arnold & Co. That firm continued to do business until 1870,
when it was dissolved and Mr. Algeo formed a new company, locating a factory for the manufacture of
coffins at Rochester, Pa., and operating under the firm name of Algeo, Scott & Co. This company continued
in business until 1875, and was sold out. Mr. Algeo went to Beaver Fails and established a coffin factory
there, having his son, William G., Junior, as a partner. In 1876, they closed out the manufacturing
department, and embarked in the undertaking business, which Mr. Algeo still follows, being the only man in
the county who has continued for so long in that business.
In 1853, our subject was joined in the holy bonds of matrimony with Sarah A. Huff,
a daughter of Mrs. Rosanna Huff, of Pittsburg. Mrs. Algeo passed to the world beyond in
1894 aged fifty-three years, leaving three children as a legacy to her husband. Their names
are: William G., Jr., who is master mechanic of the Union Drawn Steel Co., of Beaver Falls,
and, who was joined in marriage with Nora Clayton, a charming lady of Beaver Falls;
Mary E.; and Fairman, who led Anna Latham to the altar, and now has two daughters,
Viola and Sarah.
Mr. Algeo has, by strict principles of integrity and honor, built up a splendid
reputation as a man of push and energy, and has amassed a comfortable fortune that is
now of service to him in his declining years. He is a member of Lodge No. 45, F. & A. M.
of Pittsburg; of Zerubbabel Chapter, No. 162, R. A. M.; of the A. O. U. W. and
the Royal Arcanum. In his political attachments Mr: Algeo was first a Whig but is now a
Republican, and, although he has never sought political distinction, he served as
burgess of Beaver Falls in 1886-1887. The subject of our sketch is an earnest and zealous
worker in the Episcopalian church and is very charitable. He is a very prominent man,
and one universally liked by all who have the pleasure of his acquaintance.
ALEXANDER DUFF, Esq., justice of the peace of New Brighton, Pa., has in his
life time covered a wide range of experience, and has known much of men and affairs
in many fields of progress. He has been directly and indirectly connected with several
lines of business which have called forth the most earnest effort and steady industry.
In every one of these interests which have claimed his time and attention he has manifested
the qualities that lead to success. At the present writing, he is enjoying the results of his own thrift, and the rewards of a life well and usefully spent.
Our subject was born in Mercer, now Lawrence, county, Pa., July 21, 1832, is a son of James and Jane (Boies) Duff, and grandson of William Duff.
William Duff was a native of County Down, Ireland. His parents died when he was very
young, and he accompanied his step-mother to America, and settled at Turtle Creek, where
he lived until he reached manhood. Sarah Duff, a cousin of his, became his wife, and the
young folks settled in Mercer, now Lawrence, county, Pa., where they purchased a tract
of land, for the most part heavily timbered. When he decided to build a house, he could
not get a team in the county with which to move the logs, so the house was built by
carrying the logs, by main strength, to the place desired. Later, Mr. Duff built a large
log barn, which is still standing. He owned about 400 acres of land, about 200 of which,
together with the homestead, is now the property of his grandson, D. G. Duff. "Grandpa"
Duff died at the age of about eighty-five years and his good wife passed away at the age of
eighty-seven. Their children's names are: James; Oliver; Alexander; William; Mrs. Kildoo;
Mrs. Small; Mrs. Struthers; and Mrs. Caldwell, -all now deceased.
James Duff, the eldest of the children, was the father of the subject of this
sketch. James was born in Turtle Creek, Allegheny county, Pa., in 1792, and his wife was
born the same year. Mrs. Duff's maiden name was Jane Boies. She was the daughter of James and
Elizabeth (Wilson) Boies. Her grandfather, Col. Wilson, served in the Revolutionary War.
James Duff received 80 acres of land from his father, and after budding a log house
and barn upon it, and clearing a portion of the land, he sold his farm, and purchased
another one, again engaging in farming, which was his sole occupation during life. He was
an active, enterprising man, and served in township offices, also rendering valued services
to our country in the War of 1812, especially in connection with the struggle on Lake Erie.
He died in 1876, at the age of eighty-five years, his death occurring only a few miles
from his birthplace. The beloved mother only lacked two months of being ninety-nine years
old at the time of her death, and was quite active up to the time of her last illness.
On her ninety-eighth birthday her son, Alexander, and his sister gave a re-union for her
benefit. That day she rode six miles and back. She loved company, and everybody loved her.
Her home was always a pleasant place to all, -her disposition always happy. Hundreds of
relatives and friends accepted the invitation and attended the reunion, -the first of its
kind ever held in Lawrence county, -and a most joyous occasion.
This worthy and highly honored old couple were Associate Reformed Presbyterians, and
reared the following children : William, who was twice married, - his first wife being
Hannah Sherrer, and his second wife Jane McClellan; Eliza, who was also twice married,-
her first husband being Cyrus Williams, and her second husband James Kildoo; James,
who wedded Lucinda Brown; Sarah, wife of John Poak; Jane, wife of Calvin Reed; John,
who was also twice married,-his first wife being Eunice Sherrer, and his second wife
Mrs. Small; Matthew, who married Eliza Clark; Mary, wife of B. F. Junkin; Alexander,
the subject of this sketch; Lydia, wife of Cyrus Field; and Samuel, who was killed at the
Battle of Fredericksburg. He was a private in Cooper's Battery.
Alexander Duff received his intellectual training in the public schools, and started
out in life as a farmer. He bought a part of his father's farm, which was partly improved,
built a new house upon it, and otherwise enhanced its value, and then sold out to
excellent advantage. This occurred in 1863 ; Mr. Duff then purchased a Letter and
more desirable farm in North Beaver township, Lawrence county, Pa., and carried on
farming and threshing, -following the latter business fully twenty years. He enjoyed the
distinction of owning and operating the first Massillon thresher in Lawrence county.
Later in life, our subject entered the mercantile world by conducting a general merchandise
store at Moravia, where he also became station agent. As his farm was located near by,
he was enabled to oversee it and also give his personal attention to his store. In addition to all this,
he began dealing in grain, which he continued for five years,
during which he handled over 100,000 bushels each year.
In 1891, Mr. Duff sold his store to his son, C. W. Duff, and, renting his farm,
he removed to New Brighton, where he purchased a handsome residence on Fifth avenue.
On his farm, Mr. Duff not only made many improvements but rebuilt the house and barns,
and carries on a stock and poultry business. He has 14 fine grade and full bred Jerseys,
and a hennery 64x20 feet. He makes a specialty of fancy stock, and eggs, having all
his eggs stamped with date of laying, thus insuring a fancy price. He rents his farm on
shares and practically conducts it himself. From 1872 to 1877, Mr. Duff served as justice
of the peace, and has also served as school director and in other offices of his township.
In 1895 he was elected justice of the peace of New Brighton, and for the sake of having some
light business to attend to, he handles a fine line of wall papers.
Mr. Duff was united in marriage with Alkey S. Fulkerson, an attractive daughter of
Richard Fulkerson, of Lawrence county. She died at the age of fifty-nine years, after,
having reared the following children : William O., who is a coal dealer at New Castle, Pa.,
and wedded Rhoda Witherspoon, who bore her husband one child, Iva, whom they lost; Alice
C., wife of James Young, of New Castle; Richard H., a graduate of the Cleveland Medical
College, and now a practicing physician of Erie county, Pa., who married Ella Burwell,
and has two children, Harold and Gail ; Ella A., wife of Dodds Campbell, a farmer of
Lawrence county, Pa.; Edwin E., a prominent druggist of New Castle, who
married Annetta McCreary, - one child, Dorothy, having blessed their union; Charles W.,
a shoe merchant of New Castle, Pa., who married Laura Gwin, and has three children -
Mabel, Fred, and Florence; Robert Frank, who was killed in 1887, at the age of twenty
years, by falling from a wagon; and Harry G., a druggist of New Castle, who married Maree
Jeckel, of Buffalo, New York. After the death of his first wife, our subject contracted
a second matrimonial alliance, this time with Maggie E. Stuart, a daughter of John Stuart,
of Lawrence county. No issue resulted from this marriage.
Mr. Duff, since his residence in New Brighton, has identified himself with the
town's progress and development. He is a member of the First Presbyterian church of
that place, and is also an elder. In 1891, Mr. Duff took a trip across the continent,
visiting all the principal places of interest, and spending about four months on the journey.
MILTON TOWNSEND, real estate dealer and retired merchant, is one of New Brighton's
most esteemed citizens. He is spending the sunset of life, in his beautiful home, upon
the knoll at the lower end of Third avenue, enjoying every convenience and comfort that
could be desired. His residence is one of the finest sights in Beaver county, Pa.,
being surrounded by spacious lawns, lovely driveways and walks overlooking the valley below,
and overshadowed by towering mountains, sublime in their grandeur. The subject of this
sketch was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, November 3, 1820, and can trace his ancestors
back to the sixth generation, the family being of English origin. He is a son of Talbot and
Edith (Ware) Townsend, and grandson of Francis and Rachel (Fallett) Townsend.
Francis Townsend was born on April 15, 1740, was a son of Joseph Townsend, Jr.,
grandson of Joseph Townsend, Sr., and great-grandson of William Townsend, a native of
Berks county, England. Francis Townsend wedded, Rachel Fallett on July 8, 1762. They
belonged to that good old class of people, the Quakers, who were such important factors in
the settlement and early history of Pennsylvania. In 1786, Francis Townsend and his
family entered the western part of Pennsylvania, settling at Brighton, which is now
known as Beaver Falls. Mr. Townsend at once engaged in business by establishing an
iron foundry and blast furnace for the manufacture of pig iron. He was so successful in
this venture for many years, that in time, he became the owner of considerable land and
much valuable property in that vicinity. Like most of his creed, he was a fine old man,
actuated by just and upright principles, and lived a life worthy of imitation by his sons.
In the year 1800, he retired from active business pursuits and removed to Fallston,
where he spent his last years with his sons, who had erected mills there. His death
occurred at Fallston. He and his good wife were parents of the following children:
David; Benjamin J.; Isaac; Francis; Talbot; Lydia, wife of Evan Pugh; and one more daughter
whose name cannot be recalled.
Talbot Townsend, father of Milton, was born in Chester county, Pa., and
accompanied his parents west to Beaver county. In 1816, he went down the Yellow Creek
to Jefferson county, Ohio, and engaged in the manufacture of salt for some time. In 1837,
he located at New Brighton, Pa., where he built a stone flouring mill, and carried on
quite an extensive business for those days. His mill was run by a splendid water power.
In dry seasons, people cane twenty-five or thirty miles to have their grain ground at
his mill, coming, also, many miles by canoe. Much of their flour was shipped to the
Pittsburg market, and further down the Ohio River. Mr. Townsend was a very successful
miller, and acquired much property in the vicinity of New Brighton. He lived to the
advanced age of eighty-seven years, and his most worthy wife lived to be seventy-seven
years old. She was, before marriage, Edith Ware, a daughter of Asa Ware, of Salem,
Ohio. Both Mr. and Mrs. Townsend belonged to the Society of Friends. Their children were:
Milo, who married Elizabeth Walker; Eliza, wife of John Gammal; Milton, subject of
this sketch; Alfred, who died unmarried; Lydia, wife of Edwin Morlan; Caroline,
wife of Ebenezer Rhodes; and Alice, wife of Samuel Junkins.
Milton Townsend succeeded his father in the milling business for several years,
until the mill burned. He then went into the transportation business, owning some boats and
leasing others, and doing a large freight business up and down the canal for years, until
the railroads became so numerous that boating was done away with. He next became agent
for the Pittsburg & Cleveland R. R., after which he was clerk of the post office in
Pittsburg for a period of two years. Returning to New Brighton, he conducted a shoe store
very successfully for years, after which he retired, and built a handsome brick business
block on Third avenue, where his father formerly resided. Mr. Townsend then began
dealing in real estate,-buying and selling. He purchased the Abel Townsend estate,
which consisted of a fine orchard called "Knob Lot," a round knoll at the lower end
of Third avenue. He first built a round tenement house in the center of an orchard which
contained the finest and largest variety of fruit in that vicinity. Later he had the house
remodeled into a handsome dwelling, which he now occupies.
The subject of this sketch was united in marriage with Lavinia Oakley.
Mrs. Townsend was a daughter of John M. Oakley, of Brighton, formerly of Baltimore, Maryland.
She was born in 1823, and passed to her final rest in 1892. She bore her husband three
children, two of whom were sons who died in infancy. The daughter, Emily O., became
the wife of Ernest Mayer, one of the two owners of the Mayer Pottery Company, of New
Brighton, Pennsylvania. In his political opinions, Mr. Townsend first belonged to the old
line Whigs, was later an anti-slavery man and now votes the Republican ticket. In his younger days,
he was connected with both the Masonic fraternity and the Odd Fellows.
Mr. Townsend has closed a long career of toil and is now enjoying that calm that
comes after the struggle, untroubled by anxious thoughts of what the future may bring forth.
His age has already gone far beyond that allotted to the average man, and he is fast
approaching the octogenarian mark, but he still retains much of his youthful vigor. He
has been identified with every enterprise worthy of note -since his residence in New
Brighton, and justly deserves the esteem of all.
HON. JAMES J. DAVIDSON, deceased. It is a matter of profound regret that death
should intervene to cut short a life in its very dawn of great promise, a life so
efficiently equipped for usefulness to the community in which that life unfolded from
childhood to noble manhood -a life gemmed with rare acquirements and high capacities,
-full of encouragement to the many, who in their weakness, lean upon others. Such was
the life of the most worthy subject of this memoir, Hon. James J. Davidson, who,
although he lived but a few short years, did not live in vain. It is a sacred pleasure
for those who mourn, to cherish the memory of his manly virtues and beneficent deeds.
Eminent lives, independent of years, command the homage of mind and heart.
James J. Davidson was born in Connellsville, Fayette county, Pa., November 5, 1861.
He was a son of the late Col. Daniel R. Davidson, and grandson of Hon. William Davidson.
Birth and environment are the supreme forces that mainly determine the success or failure
of human beings. These forces acting in concert as uplifting factors, success is almost
assured; if operating adversely, life often ends in failure. The influences, which give
them direction and potency, date far back in ancestral history. These elements, in their
most helpful form, as character builders, gave to James J. Davidson his high standing in
business circles and his initial success in political affairs.
The grandfather of our subject hereof, William Davidson, was favored with large
practical ability, and was a noted iron master in the infancy of that great industry. He was
several times a member of the Pennsylvania Legislature, and served as senator and as
speaker of the House. He was appropriately looked upon as one of the foremost men of the
county of his adoption.
Colonel Daniel R. Davidson, father of the subject of these memoirs, was richly
endowed with mental capabilities that would have secured eminence in any of the learned
professions, had the bent of his mind led in that direction, but he chose to deal with great
commercial enterprises. His keen foresight and power of analysis secured for him large
wealth, and constituted him a leader in developing the vast mineral resources, which have
made the county of Fayette famous in the industrial world. The mother of James J. Davidson
belonged to a family which ranked among the best of Western Pennsylvania, and was a
woman of rare intellectual attainments and cultivated taste, who made home life a school
of moral and mental training. Such were the marked and conspicuous antecedents of that life
which it is the aim of these brief lines to record.
In the sixth year of Mr. Davidson's life, he removed with the family to Beaver
County, his future home, and the theater of those early and brilliant achievements which
gave such prominence to his short life. His preparatory education was obtained at the Beaver
public schools and at Beaver Seminary. In 1878, he entered Bethany College, West Virginia,
and afterward spent three years at the University of Lexington, Kentucky, graduating
therefrom, in 1883. He returned to Beaver and spent the following two years in the study
of law in the office of Hon. John J. Wickham, now of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.
This fitted Mr. Davidson for the subsequent activities which made him a power in the
political and industrial movements of the county and state, as it was not his intention
to engage in the practice of the legal profession, but to qualify himself with most
thorough business acquirements. This was the height of his ambition, and he made a study
of practical matters among his first mercantile enterprises.
In 1886, Mr. Davidson commenced his business career by entering the oil trade as a
new member of the firm of Darrah, Watson & Co., oil producers; he was subsequently
interested in several kinds of enterprises. In the course of a few years, he became
president of the Union Drawn Steel Works, of Beaver Falls, Pa., one of the most prosperous
manufacturing plants of the Beaver Valley. Mr. Davidson was one of the largest
stockholders of that organization, and was its president at the time of his death.
Early in life the subject of this biography became actively engaged in politics, and was
soon recognized as an influential leader in the Republican party, supervising partisan
policies and giving direction to local and national campaigns. He served seven years as
a member of the Beaver Council and was an ardent supporter of the public improvements,
which in these later years have made Beaver so attractive for family residences.
In 1894, Mr. Davidson received the unanimous nomination of Beaver county, for
Congress, but at the congressional conference held at Beaver Falls, he withdrew in favor
of T. W. Phillips, of Lawrence county. In 1896, Mr. Davidson was again the unanimous
choice of Beaver county, and at the congressional conference held in Butler, he was
nominated on the first ballot. The nomination of so young a man in a district composed
of four counties, with numerous aspirants, is proof of a phenomenal ability to control
political forces, and was prophetic of a successful future, paralleled by but few in the
history of our nation. After his election to Congress in 1896, Mr. Davidson went west
to regain his health, but death prevented him from taking the oath of office, and his
first year's salary was paid to his bereaved widow.
Toward the close of 1895, Mr. Davidson suffered an attack of "la grippe," which in
after months developed into lung disease.His ambitions were beyond his constitution, and his
energetic disposition kept him from taking much needed rest. The failure of medical skill to
master this lung ailment, finally induced him to seek relief in
change of climate. In July, 1896, he left his home in Beaver, and accompanied by his wife and two children,
went to Salt Lake City. A month's sojourn in that city failing to bring any special relief, he changed his
location to Colorado Springs. After a six weeks' stay there he removed to Phoenix, Arizona; but
change of climate and the most careful nursing and loving attention were powerless to
arrest the waste of physical forces, and he succumbed to quick consumption. On January
2, 1897, at the age of thirty-five years, the struggle ended, leaving a grief-stricken
wife, two interesting children, and a host of friends to mourn his departure.
Mr. Davidson was a thirty-second degree Mason and was past officer of that fraternity;
he was a member of the Tancred Commandery, Knights Templar, and of Syria Temple,
A. A. O. N. M. S. His Masonic brethren met his remains at the home depot, and had charge
of the memorial services, which were very imposing. Mr. Davidson was also a member of
the I. O. O. F. lodge, the Knights of Pythias, the American Mechanics, and the
Americus Club of Pittsburg, whose members came in a body to his funeral.
January 31, 1889, James J. Davidson was united by the holy bands of matrimony with
Emma Eakin, an accomplished daughter of John R. Eakin, noted as one of the solid men
of Beaver county. This most happy union resulted in the birth of three little ones: Philip
James; Margaret, who died when only three months old; and Sarah Norton. It was the most
earnest desire of Mr. Davidson to build a handsome home for his beloved ones in some
attractive spot, and to surround them with every convenience and comfort. But his unusually
busy life left him no time to attend to this matter before being cut off by death, with
this wish unfulfilled. Mrs. Davidson and her two children are now residing in a pleasant
home located on the south side of Park street, and it is her desire to rear and educate
her little son and daughter in a fitting manner, that they may in the future add other
laurels to the honored name of their father, a further account of whose ancestors may be
found in the sketch of Frederick Davidson, of Beaver Falls, to be found in this volume.
The publishers of this work take pleasure in announcing that a portrait of
Mr. Davidson accompanies this work, being presented on a preceding page.
EDGAR FREDERICK HOPE has been interested in the advancement and prosperity of
Beaver Falls since the year 189o, in which year he established himself in mercantile
business, and is now recognized as one of the leading and substantial merchants of
that borough. His native town is Manchester, England, and his ancestors have resided
for many generations in Preston, England. He is a son of Isaac and grandson of Thomas Hope.
Thomas Hope was a life-long resident of Preston, England, and was an expert
machinist, conducting a machine-shop and foundry many years. He was called from earth when
eighty-three years old. Isaac Hope was also born in Preston, and there also received his
mental training; he was also a mechanic by trade and followed the same business that
occupied his father's attention for so long a period. Mr. Hope was joined in marriage
with Miss. Easterby of Benthem, England, and they reared a family of four children: Daniel,
who wedded a Miss Bradley; Joseph; Edgar Frederick, the subject hereof; and Eleanor.
The father of Edgar Frederick Hope died, aged seventy-two years. The subject of this
sketch obtained his primary education in the public schools of his native town, and early
in life began to learn the trade of an iron-molder; desiring to seek a home and fortune
in the new world, he decided to come to the United States, and accordingly sailed for
New York City in 188o; upon his arrival there he found employment on the foundry work of
the great Brooklyn Bridge. In 189o, he became a resident of Beaver Falls, Pa., and there
established a general store, which he still conducts. Mr. Hope began at the bottom of the
ladder, and, with meager advantages for education and no material assistance, has
gradually worked his way up to the status of a substantial business man. His business
interests are not confined to Beaver Falls alone, for he also has three stores in New Brighton.
Our subject's store in Beaver Falls is located on the principal business thoroughfare, and
he pays special attention to the lines of stoves and tin ware, glass and queensware and
furniture. Mr. Hope by his wonderful determination and energy, coupled with good judgment,
has made a decided success in all his business undertakings; he is popular and esteemed in
both business and social circles, and is an intelligent and well-to-do citizen.
Mr. Hope formed a matrimonial alliance with Miss Frances Bailey, and their home
has been blessed with three children: Charles J.; Harry, and Olive. Politically, he is a
Republican, whilst in religious views he favors the Methodist church.
COL. JACOB WEYAND, al retired publisher of Beaver, Pa., whose portrait is
shown on the opposite page, enjoys the distinction of being the only living member of
the convention that participated in the formation of the Republican party at Lafayette Hall,
Pittsburg, Pa., February 22, 1856. He first saw the light of day on March 22, 1828,
near Mount Jackson, Lawrence county, then a part of Beaver county. He worked on a
farm until he attained manhood, and then attended Beaver Academy. In 1854 he became
part owner of the Argus, and assisted in editing and publishing that paper until the
winter of 1857 and 1858. Selling his interest in the Argus, he purchased the Free Press, at
Carrollton, Ohio, where he was busily engaged at the breaking out of the Civil War.
Catching the martial spirit of the times, Mr. Weyand sold the Free Press, and raised a
company of volunteers. He was chosen captain, and marched the company to Camp Mingo, near
Steubenville, Ohio, where it was at once attached to the 126th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf.,
and mustered into service in 1862. During his service, Capt. Weyand was noted for
sturdy courage and coolness in the midst of great danger, and although twice wounded in
battle, he had no fears for his personal safety, but thought rather of the duty to be
performed. He participated in nearly all the battles of the Potomac campaign. In the battle
of Monocacy, Md., fought July 9, 1864, Capt. Weyand was placed in command of his regiment,
and an officer on the staff of the commanding general that day, in writing a history of the
battle, made use of the following language:
"Capt. Weyand, who was commanding the 126th Ohio Vol., was on the extreme right
of the line, with the right of his regiment resting near the Monocacy bridge. After the
battle had progressed a short time, he was directed by General Wallace to set fire to the
bridge, then face the regiment to the left, double quick it to the extreme left of the line,
throw it across the pike, and hold the position as long as he could. The bridge was
fired and the regiment started off on its perilous movement. It had almost reached the
desired destination, when, as it came abreast of the line of the hundred day men, it met
a most unexpected obstruction. Immediately in its front was a farm ditch about six
feet wide and the same depth, through which a sluggish stream of water was running. A
few feet further was a board fence five or six feet high-both running at right angles with
the line of battle. Just beyond the ditch and fence was the Washington pike. The ditch
was literally alive with `hundred day men,' who, totally unused to the sort of treatment
they were receiving at the hands of the enemy, had taken shelter there from the raking fire which the Confederates had opened on the pike. With the view of keeping that thoroughfare open, the enemy were in line of battle on an elevation of about four hundred yards in our front, and every missile known to warfare seemed to be coming down that hard, dusty road; plowing shot,
screeching shells, rattling grape and canister were hurled out, with sharp volleys of musketry,
sending up puffs of dust, or tearing up great rifts of the highway. No one could com-
mand calmness enough to considerately behold the scene, yet this had to be done ; the
General had ordered it. Here Captain Weyand leaped the ditch, climbed to the top of
the fence, and pointed forward. In an instant every file was moving after him, led by the
gallant McPeck. Under the galling fire the men were falling like leaves before an autumn
blast, and, realizing the dreadful havoc that was being made in the ranks, Capt. Weyand
broke the battle line, and hurriedly moved his regiment some seventy-five yards forward,
where a rise in the ground partly sheltered the men from the merciless storm they had
just passed. Every officer came out of the conflict bleeding, and every man not hit or
killed had his clothes riddled with bullets."
In the eleven preceding battles in which the regiment had borne an honorable part,
its splendid discipline and fighting qualities had never shown to greater advantage than in
this field. Its brilliant conduct was the theme of officers and men who had no connection
with it, and Captain Weyand, who had already been complimented highly by his superior
officers for gallantry at Cold Harbor, was now honored with a recommendation to the
Secretary of War for promotion as major and brevet lieutenant-colonel.,,Col. Fox, in his
book, entitled, "The Three Hundred Fighting Regiments of the War," includes the 126th
Ohio Vol. Infantry (Col. Weyand's) regiment as one of that number. After the war, our
subject returned to Beaver, Pa., repurchased the Argus, and conducted it until 1874, when
he consolidated it with the Radical, publishing both under the firm of Weyand & Rutan.
From that time Col. Weyand practically retired from business, with the exception of
dealing in real estate to some extent. He purchased the David Hall property of fifteen
acres at Beaver, but just within the line of Bridgewater borough, and built a handsome
residence. In 1893, Col. Weyand was elected to the legislature; two years later he was
reelected, and the duties of a legislator were performed by him in a very creditable and
capable manner.
The subject of this sketch was twice married. In 1857, Victoria Adams, a charming
young lady of Beaver county, became his wife, and shared his joys and sorrows until 1892,
when he was deprived of her pleasant companionship by death. She was born in 1837, and
bore her husband the following children: Emma; Romulus and Remus, twins; Milo Adams;
Edwin Stanton; Blanche, and Paul. Emma is the wife of Harry W. Reeves, of Beaver;
Romulus and Remus died in infancy; Milo Adams is deceased; Edwin Stanton is an attorney-at-law in Beaver.
He was a law student under ex-Judge Wickham, now deceased, and was admitted to the bar in 1895 ;
he married Wilhelmina Thompson, of Marion, Ohio, who has borne him two children, Dorothy, and "baby,"
not yet named. Blanche is a stenographer, and Paul is a Methodist minister. He was educated
at the Beaver High School and at Allegheny College, Meadville, Pennsylvania. He is now Superintendent of City Missions,
at Pittsburg, Pa.
Some time after the death of his first wife, Col. Weyand formed a second matrimonial
alliance-this time with Mary E. Cooke, a daughter of Maj. William Cooke. Col. Weyand is a
member of the U. V. L. and the G. A. R. He worships at the M. E. church.
He is a son of Henry and Mary M. (Ginder) Weyand, and a grandson of Jacob Weyand,
who was born in Alsace, Germany, and came to America about the year 1738, settling at
Somerset, Pennsylvania, where he and his good wife both lived to a good old age. So
far as is known, their children were as follows: Michael ; Jacob; John, and Henry,
father of the subject of this memoir.
Henry Weyand was born July 31, 1791, in Somerset county, Pa., and there his marriage
occurred. He wedded Mary Magdalena Ginder, a daughter of George Ginder. The young folks
settled near Mount Jackson, and purchased a farm now known as the William Patterson farm.
In his younger day, Henry Weyand taught schools during winters -teaching both German and
English -and devoted his summers to working his farm. He was a man of prominence in his
community, and served many years as constable. His death occurred at the age of fifty-two
years, three months, and nine days. His devoted wife died in August, 1863, aged seventy-three
years and eight months. Their family consisted of the following children: Agabus; Mary Ann;
Michael; Jacob, and Elizabeth. Agabus died young; Mary Ann is the wife of Jacob Bender;
this worthy couple recently celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary, at
Mahoningtown, Pa.; Michael is -the editor of the Beaver Times; Jacob is the subject of
this biography, and Elizabeth is the wife of Joseph Strouck.
JOHN ELLIS, a highly respected and enterprising citizen of Beaver Falls, enjoys
the distinction of being director of the Co-operative Flint Glass Co. of that place
and was one of the organizers of that company in 1879, at which time he located in
Beaver Falls. Ever since the organization of the company, Mr. Ellis has been in its
employ; he is careful, shrewd, and trustworthy. His work is always done in a way that will
stand the closest scrutiny. The subject of this sketch was born January 9, 1852, and
obtained his education in Pittsburg. He subsequently served an apprenticeship with Bryce
Brothers, and went to Beaver Falls in 1879.
In 1887, Annie Davis, a daughter of John Davis of Pittsburg, agreed to share the
fortunes of Mr. Ellis by becoming his wife. This union was blessed with three children :
Howard; Mabel; and Clifford B. Mr. Ellis and his family are willing workers of the
Presbyterian church. In politics, Mr. Ellis has always been a Republican, but has refrained
from accepting official positions. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. organization,
and also of the Royal Arcanum. He has been a director of the Flint Glass Co. of Beaver Falls
since 1896. He is a son of William and Jane (Owen) Ellis.
William Ellis was born in Cardiganshire, Wales, February 8, 1815, and was
reared and educated at that place. He learned the trade of a hatter, which occupation
he continued to follow until July 4, 1846, when he started for America. After a five
weeks' voyage on board a sailing vessel, he landed at New York, going to Pittsburg by
way of Utica, Buffalo, and the canal. After his arrival in Pittsburg, Mr. Ellis engaged
in mining for a number of years, then began working in a glass factory, where he found
employment for a period of twenty years, the last eight years of which were spent in
Beaver Falls, where he died February 25, 1888. He chose for his life partner, Jane Owen,
a daughter of Stephen Owen, of Wales. Mrs. Ellis departed this life September 10, 1897,
at the age of seventy-nine years. This worthy couple favored the Welsh Calvinistic
Methodist church. Mr. Ellis was an ardent Republican, fearless in his ideas, and in the
expression of them. He took a deep interest in church affairs, and was very generous and
kind hearted, often visiting the sick and poor and needy, relievingtheir wants or
ameliorating their suffering whenever he could. He was a valued member of the Odd Fellows
organization. He was also a member of the Ivorites, a Welsh order.
Our subject was one of four children. James, the eldest, died at the tender age
of seven years. John is the subject of this sketch. Mary J., born February 14, 1854,
became the wife of David D. Evans, of Pittsburg, and has six children, namely:
Blanche; William, now deceased; Howard; Elmer; Ethel; and Iris. David Ellis,
the youngest of the family, and only surviving brother of the subject of this sketch,
was born September 26, 1856, at Pittsburg, Pa. He is one of the prominent and hard
working members of the American Flint Glass Workers' Union, No. 38. David commenced
his trade of flint glass worker in the factory of Bryce, Walker & Co.; he afterwards
worked for Campbell, Jones & Co. He has been a resident of Beaver Falls since 1879,
being employed in the Cooperative Works. David Ellis joined the Union of his trade in 1876,
when the "Flints" were affiliated with the K. of L., and remained a member of that
organization until the American Flint Glass Workers' Union of North America was organized,
when he joined the latter body. Besides being a staunch union man, he is very prominent
in the ranks of the Odd Fellows, having served as district deputy of the order in Beaver
County, and district deputy grand patriarch of the Encampment in the same county.
He is, also, a member of Beaver Valley Lodge No. 478, F. & A. M., Beaver Falls, Pa.
Mr. Ellis is a self-made man ; having learned self-reliance and
habits of industry in his youth, he was not slow to make the best of every
opportunity offered. He has won his way to an enviable position, and is esteemed
for his many excellent traits and his well-known rectitude of character.
CHRISTOPHER C. HAZEN, the popular secretary for S. Barnes & Co. (Limited),
manufacturers of all kinds of fire brick, of Rochester, Pa., is a resident of
New Brighton, Pa., and besides following the occupations of teaching, farming, and
stock-raising, for, perhaps, a quarter of a century, he has occupied important positions
of trust in Beaver county-such as county auditor and county treasurer. Our subject
boasts of English origin, and can trace his ancestors back for two hundred and fifty years;
he is a descendant of Edward Hassen, which was the original family name.
Edward Hassen was born in England, September 18, 1649, and with his wife,
Elizabeth, came to America, settling at Rowley, Massachusetts. There he served as selectman,
overseer, and as judge of delinquents; he owned a large quantity of real estate, including
seven gates, or cattle rights, which was considered an extensive ownership. His estate at
death was valued at £404 7s. 8d. He was twice married. Little is known of his first wife,
Elizabeth. His second wife was Hannah Grant, a daughter of Thomas and Hugh Grant.
Edward Hassen died at. Rowley, Mass., in 1663, leaving the following children: Elizabeth;
Hannah; John; Thomas; Edward; Isabella; Priscilla ; Edna; Richard ; Hepzibah; and Sarah.
Thomas Hassen, from whom the subject of this sketch is descended, was born
February 29, 1657 or 1658, and died at Norwich, Conn., April 12, 1735. He was a farmer
by occupation, and settled upon what was known as the Westfarms, and with his sons was
among the petitioners for its incorporation as a parish, in 1716. This tract is now known
as Franklin. Thomas was united in marriage, January 1, 1682, with Mary Howlet, a daughter
of Thomas Howlet. Their children were as follows : John; Hannah; Alice; Edna; Thomas;
Jacob; Mary; Lydia; Hepzibah; Ruth ; and Jeremiah.
John Hazen was born March 23, 1683, and was twice married. His first wife was
Mercy Bradstreet, daughter of John and Sarah (Perkins) Bradstreet. Mrs Hazen laid down
the burden of life in 1725. John Hazen chose for his second wife, Elizabeth Dart. He reared
the following offspring: John; Samuel; Simon; Margaret; Caleb; Sarah; Daniel; Elizabeth;
Mary; Hannah, the first, and Hannah, the second.
John Hazen, Jr., was born February 21, 1711 or 1712. He was joined in matrimony
with Deborah Peck, of Lyme, Connecticut, who bore him nine children, namely: Mary; John;
Mary, second; Deborah; Nathaniel ; Eunice; Joseph; Lydia; and Samuel.
Nathaniel Hazen was born March 17, 1745, and was joined in marriage with Mary Bell.
History says that Nathaniel was first located in the state of New Jersey,
from which he removed to Washington county, Pa., and shortly afterward went to North Sewickley,
now Franklin, township, Beaver county, and settled upon a tract of land where S. M. Hazen now resides.
A patent for this land, issued from the Government to the eldest son of Nathaniel Hazen, bears date 1790.
Nathaniel possessed considerable means, owning two hundred acres of land, and becoming a man of
prominence in his day. Having very fertile land, he made a specialty of raising timothy
seed, which he carried over the mountains on horseback, and exchanged for salt and
merchandise. He conducted a small store, and was the proud owner of the first buggy ever
seen in these parts. The house occupied by him as a residence was built of logs, as was
the barn -the former containing only one door and one window. Nathaniel Hazen set out
an orchard, a portion of which is yet bearing. Among the children reared by him and his
excellent wife were the following : Samuel; Nathan; and James. They also reared others,
whose names are not remembered.
Samuel Hazen, grandfather of the subject hereof, was born at Peter's Creek,
Washington county (now Allegheny county) Pa., August 27, 1791. He wedded Eliza McDaniel,
a daughter of Jethro McDaniel. "Grand-ma" Hazen was born in 1798, and passed away at
the age of forty-nine years. Samuel Hazen began his career by working on his
father's farm. He subsequently built a woolen mill at Wurtemberg, and carried on the
manufacture of woolen goods in connection with farming. So successfully did he manage
this enterprise that before his death he became the owner of several farms. He assisted
in organizing the Baptist society, of which he was a member. His homestead farm was
early known as the "Leverance Farm." His death occurred September 7, 1855, having been
previously deprived of his beloved companion, in 1847. Their most happy union was
blessed with the following children : Nathaniel; Mary Ann, wife of H. K. Alter;
Rebecca, wife of A. Cavin; Hannah, wife of J. C. Thompson; Margaret, wife of John Thomas;
Nathan, father of the subject hereof; Samuel, who died at the age of twenty-two years;
and Smith M., who married Mary A. Ney. After the death of his first wife, Samuel Hazen
contracted a second matrimonial alliance, in this instance with Elizabeth Ann Thompson,
who bore him one daughter, Ruth, and who died September 7, 1855, the same day upon
which her husband died.
Nathan Hazen, father of Christopher C., was born in North Sewickley, now
Franklin, township, December 15, 1829. He won for his wife, Mary Judith Zeigler, a
daughter of Abraham Zeigler. Mrs Hazen still survives her husband, whose death occurred
July 29, 1898, at the age of sixty-eight years. Christopher C.'s father purchased a farm,
that upon which Thomas J. Powell now resides, which he afterwards sold, and purchased
another in North Sewickley township. This latter farm was only partially improved,
and is still a portion of the estate. Upon this farm the elder Mr. Hazen replaced the
old log house and barns with convenient and substantial buildings, in 1851, and six years
later he built a handsome, large house. After clearing the land, he was occupied in farming
until about 1875, when he purchased the Dr. Withrow property, in North Sewickley township.
He then practically retired from active labor, with the exception of keeping a store and
officiating as postmaster. He also served as supervisor and as auditor. He was a very active,
energetic man, accumulating a fine property, and upon his death left a large estate for distribution
among his children, who are as follows : Christopher C., the subject hereof;
Elizabeth Eliza, who became the wife of Stewart Thompson, and is now deceased;
Mary, wife of Dr. W. O. Morrison, of Struthers, Ohio; Maggie H., wife of Dr. C. H. Knoblett,
of Ohio; Ida, wife of Hon. J. Sharp Wilson, of Beaver; and F. Lily, who is devoting her
life to her aged mother.
Christopher C. Hazen was born in North Sewickley township, Beaver county, Pa.,
December 20, 1851. After attending public school he took a course at North Sewickley Academy.
He graduated from Lewisburg University, now known as Bucknell College, in 1874. He assisted
in working his way through college by teaching a part of the time, which profession occupied
his attention before and after his graduation. After his marriage, the subject of this
record conducted his father's farm for some time, making a specialty of stock-raising,
breeding some very fine horses, and keeping a choice dairy. Mr. Hazen began his public
life in 1885, when he was elected county auditor of Beaver county, serving six years.
n 1891, he was elected county treasurer of the same county, serving in that capacity for
three years. In 1897, Mr, Hazen became a stockholder in, and secretary for, the S. Barnes
Manufacturing Company, which responsible and lucrative position he still retains and
seems especially fitted for.
Mr. Hazen engaged in farming for a period of twenty-one years, discontinuing
it in 1896, when he purchased a fine residence in New Brighton. This residence was known
as the Judge Andrew Duff place, having been built by that gentleman. It is a fine,
modern house, surrounded by beautiful, spacious lawns, and is picturesquely situated
on the heights overlooking the business portion of the city. Our subject was joined in
wedlock with Laura H. De Frain. Mrs. Hazen is a daughter of Jacob and Susan (Boon) De Frain,
and formerly resided in Lewisburg, Union county, Pennsylvania, being a graduate of a
young ladies' grammar school of that place. Mr. and Mrs Hazen are rearing a large and
exceedingly interesting family, of whom they are very proud. Their children's names are
as follows: Edith Irene, born November 13, 1875, who served as assistant to her father
while he filled the office of county treasurer; Mabel Edna, born March 12, 1877;
Edna Blanche, born June 6, 1879; Clara Floy, born June 7, 1881; Amy Anna, born July 10, 1883;
Harry Wilford, born October 19, 1885; Frank Harrison, born November 23, 1887;
Nathan De Frain, born December 5, 1889; Harold Herbert, born October 20, 1872,
and whose little life flickered out on July 21, 1873; and Thomas Ross Hennon,
born June 18, 1898.
Christopher C. Hazen and his family are active members of the Baptist church,
of which denomination Mr. Hazen has served as deacon. Socially, our subject is a member
of St. James Lodge, No. 457, F. & A. M., is past chancellor of the Knights of Pythias,
and attended the Grand Lodge sessions for two years; he is also a member of the
Junior Order of United American Mechanics. Mr. Hazen is a most pleasant and agreeable
gentleman, numbering his friends by the score, and it is with pleasure that we are
able to announce that his portrait accompanies the fore-going outline of his life.
JOHN WYLIE FORBES. The family of which the gentleman whose name heads this
biography is a worthy reresentative, have resided in Beaver county for more than a
century and have contributed their share toward the building up and maintenance of
its present flourishing condition. Mr. Forbes is well known throughout this vicinity
as a man of high business principles, a dutiful citizen, and enjoys the confidence and
esteem of a, host of acquaintances. He was born near Moravia, Lawrence county, then
Beaver county, -the date of his birth being December 29, 1835,-and he is a son of
David and Elizabeth (Wylie) Forbes.
On the paternal side of Mr. Forbes' ancestors, the family was of Scotch-Irish
extraction, and William Forbes, his grandfather, was the first of the Forbes family to
locate in this vicinity, which he did about 1798. He took up a large tract of land and
pursued the vocation; of a farmer. The father of the subject of this sketch was born
in 1798, and was but six months old when his parents moved to this county. He at first
carried on farming but later began dealing in grain, his field of operation being along
the old Erie canal. He died in February, 1861. In politics, he was a Democrat of the
Jeffersonian type and took an active part in local affairs. He was a member of the
United Presbyterian Church, of which he was also an elder. His union with Elizabeth Wylie
resulted in the birth of nine children : William, deceased; John W., Rebecca, Elizabeth,
Benjamin, Nancy, Robert and Alice, all deceased; and Amanda. On the maternal side of the
family, the ancestors of John Wylie Forbes were Scotch, and his grandfather was John Wylie.
The subject of this narrative was elementarily trained in the schools of his native
district and further pursued his studies at Westminster College, after which he spent
a year and one-half teaching school in the state of Kentucky. Owing to his father's
illness, he returned home and took charge of his business. His mother died in 1861.
In 1870 he settled in Beaver Falls, where he worked at different vocations. He embarked
in mercanile pursuits, and in 1888 sold out, and operated a foundry. The latter enterprise
he continued until 1892, when the Standard Gauge Steel Company was organized and he
was made vice-president of the plant, a position he occupies at the present time.
Mr. Forbes is a director and treasurer of the Champion Saw and Gas Engine Company of
Beaver Falls. In February, 1865, the subject of our sketch enlisted in the cause of
the Union in Company G, 78th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., and served throughout the remainder
of that terrible struggle.
Socially, Mr. Forbes is a prominent member of Post No. 164, G. A. R.
HON. IRA F. MANSFIELD, an extensive owner of coal mining interests about
Cannelton, Pa., whose active furtherance of many well-known enterprises places him
among the foremost of the prominent and progressive business men of Beaver county,
resides in a handsome home in Beaver, at the corner of Elk and First streets.
He is a son of Kirtland and Lois (Morse) Mansfield, and was born in Poland, Ohio,
June 27, 1842.
He is descended from Revolutionary stock, being a great-grandson of
Captain Jack Mansfield, who served through that war as a captain, and after its
close lived in retirement, -having served sixty years in the Second, Fourth and
Sixth Connecticut regiments. His son, Ira Mansfield, was the grandfather of the
gentleman whose name appears at the head of this sketch.
Kirtland Mansfield, the father of Ira F., was born in Wallingford, Conn.,
and early in life went to Poland, Ohio, where for many years he was engaged in
mercantile pursuits. Later he removed to Philadelphia, Pa., where he lived the
remainder of his life. He was joined in the bonds of wedlock with Lois Morse, a
daughter of Elkanah Morse, an early settler of Poland, Ohio, where he built the
first oil, woolen and grist mills. In 1849, he moved to California, where he died.
After the demise of her husband, Mrs. Mansfield returned to Poland, Ohio, with her son,
where he was reared under the influence of a kind mother's love.
Ira F. Mansfield received a good mental training in the common schools of
his native place, and in Poland College, where he was a schoolmate of President
William McKinley. At the early age of fifteen years he went to Pittsburg and learned
the trade of a molder, but returned to Poland, and in August, 1862, enlisted in
Company H, 105th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf.,-being the first to sign the roll. He was promoted
to be orderly sergeant, then 1st lieutenant, and for conspicuous bravery at the battles
of Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge he was breveted captain and was as-signed as a
quartermaster of the Fourteenth Army Corps. He was with Sherman in his memorable March
to the Sea and up through the Carolinas, and participated in the grand review at Washington,
in May of 1865. He is a man of very methodical ways and of a very observing nature, and
during his service kept a diary, and a record of his many interesting and exciting experiences.
This he has written out, and, being an artist of superior talent, he has finely illustrated
it with pen pictures, and also with many fine photographs, taken in recent years,-all of which
make a beautiful and valuable volume. In October, 1865, he leased of Mrs. Edwin Morse,
the Cannel coal mines of Cannelton, Beaver county, Pa., and in 187o bought them outright.
He has since owned and operated them, and now owns 357 acres, through which veins run which
are from ten to fifteen feet thick. The daily output varies from one hundred to two hundred
and fifty tons, and the facilities for shipping are of the best,-the mines being located on
a branch of the Pennsylvania railroad. Mr. Mansfield also built a general store there and
operated it for a number of years, but it is now managed by C. W. Inman and known as the Cash Store.
He also erected a fine opera house and furnished it in elegant style. The postoffice, which was established
in the town in 1872, is located on the first floor of his building, and for many years he
served in the capacity of postmaster. He bought and rebuilt the Morse homestead, and
possesses a very fine farm, one hundred and eighty acres of which is devoted to fruit
raising; he has 5,000 peach trees and a large number of pear, cherry and quince trees.
He is also interested in the Gulf Company, the Bituminous Company, and the Captain A. Hicks
Company,-coal operators. He is a man of wonderful energy and general business ability and
his many ventures have resulted in great financial success. In 1887, he moved
to Beaver, purchasing the Hum and Singleton property at the corner of Elk and First streets,
and there he has erected a very handsome modern brick home, which overlooks the beautiful
valley and the Ohio River.
Mr. Mansfield has traveled extensively throughout the United States and is well
versed in the current events of the day. He has a fine collection of mounted speciments
in botany, especially ferns and orchids-from Beaver county,-and all are illustrated on
separate pages, in natural colors,-this being the work of his mother. In politics,
Mr. Mansfield is a stanch Republican, and was elected a member of the state legislature
from Beaver county in 1880, 1893, 1895, and 1897,-serving his constituents faithfully and well.
He was a school director of Cannelton and Beaver, and takes an earnest interest in all
matters of an educational nature. He is vice-president of Beaver College, and
Beaver Musical Institute, and is president of the board of trustees, of Greers College
of Darlington. He is vice-president of the First National Bank of Rochester, is a
stockholder and director of three building and loan associations, and of several bridge
and street railway companies; he is a director of the P., L. & W. R. R., of the
Pennsylvania Railroad, and of the Valley Electric Plant.
The subject of this memoir was united in marriage with Lucy E. Mygatt,
a daughter of Dr. E. Mygatt, who was born in Danbury, Conn., and was a practicing
physician and surgeon of Poland, Ohio, when Mr. Mansfield was married, in 1872.
Three children have blessed this union, as follows: Kirtland Mygatt, Mary Lois, and Henry Beauchamp.
Socially, he is a member, and commander of, Post No. 473, G. A. R.; past master of
the following lodges of the Masonic order, being a thirty-second degree Mason;
F. & A. M., R. A. M., and K. T.; is past grand of the Odd Fellows Lodge; and past
commander of the Knights of Pythias; he served as aide-de-camp on Gen. H. H. Cummings'
staff. In a religious connection, he is a member and elder of the Presbyterian church,
and has served as superintendent of the Sunday School. A portrait of Mr. Mansfield is
presented, in connection with this sketch.
MRS. MOLLIE F. RANDOLPH, who sprang from a very prominent family of Beaver county,
is the widow of George F. Randolph, who, it will be remembered, was drowned in the
disastrous flood at Johnstown in 1889, whither he had gone upon a visit. He was one
of the most highly respected men of Beaver Falls, and his sad death came as a severe
shock not only to his family but to the citizens of the borough, among whom he had a
large circle of friends.
Mrs. Randolph was born in Allegheny, Pa., February 14, 1863, and is a daughter
of Major F. and Sally K. (Smith) Scott. Major Scott, who during his life was probably
one of the best known men of the country, was born near Uniontown, Fayette county, Pa.,
September 21, 1832, and after receiving an education, helearned the trade of a saddler
and harness maker. In 1856, he removed to Allegheny, Pa., and accepted a position as
passenger conductor on the Fort Wayne R. R., where he remained for many years, thus
becoming acquainted with nearly all the prominent business men of Western Pennsylvania.
Discontinuing the railroad business, he bought the St. Charles Hotel in Pittsburg and
conducted it for one year, but finally disposed of it and bought the Sourbeck Hotel in
New Brighton. Later he retired from the hotel business, and engaged in the wholesale
candy business in Beaver Falls, being very successful. When the Fort Wayne R. R. Company
built their new depot in Beaver Falls, he was offered-the position of passenger agent to
take effect upon the completion of the building. This he accepted and was so arranging his
business affairs that he might take charge, when he was taken sick and died, just one week
prior to the opening of the new depot. Major Scott married Sally K. Smith, who was born in
Uniontown, Pa., October 27, 1832, and five children blessed their union, Mrs. Randolph
being the only child now living.
Mollie F. Scott was one year old when in 1864, her parents moved to New Brighton,
and five years old when they located at Beaver Falls, where she was given a good education.
She has always taken an active interest in educational and church matters, and was a member
of the church-the choir, and organist, for nine years. She is an entertaining
conversationalist and an accomplished musician and singer, and has always been popular
in social circles. She possesses exceptional business qualifications and very cleverly
manages the property in which she and her mother live on Ninth street, and the brick
residence adjoining, these being the estate left to her care by her father. On the
maternal side of the family, she is descended in the fourth generation from
General Douglas, who attained fame in the Revolutionary War. Her father was a
Democrat in politics and served as school director. He was a member of the
Methodist Protestant church, and fraternally belonged to the Franklin Lodge, F. & A. M.
George F. Randolph, the deceased husband of the subject of this sketch, was born in
Johnstown, Pa., and was a son of Richard Fitz and Emma A. (Boggs) Randolph. He was descended
from Edward Randolph, captain in the Revolutionary War, who was a farmer in the heart of
Philadelphia. His land was situated on Fifth and Randolph streets, the latter street
being given his name because it cut through his farm. He was a strict adherent to the
Quaker faith. He reared thirteen children.
George F. Randolph, a son of Edward, was born in Philadelphia and during his
active business career operated a general store there, but in his latter days, lived
in retirement. He was the father of Edward Randolph, the grandfather of our subject,
who was a graduate of Harvard University. For a time he de-voted himself to the practice
of medicine, but at a later date read law and was a successful attorney. He was united
in marriage with Frances McShane, a daughter of a prominent Philadelphia merchant and
they reared three children : George Fitz ; Richard Fitz ; and Charles Fitz.
Richard Fitz Randolph, the father of our subject's husband, was educated at a
private academy in Chester county, Pa., but when seventeen years old, he went to Cambria
county, to learn the steel trade with the Cambria Steel Company. He remained with them
until 1884, when he moved to Beaver Falls and accepted a position in the steel and wire
nail-mill, a part of the time being assist-ant manager. He subsequently accepted a
position with the Beaver Falls Saw Company, with whom he continued for six years.
He was united in marriage with Emma A. Boggs, a daughter of Senator Boggs of Hollidaysburg,
Blair county, where she was born, and they reared five children, as follows: George F.;
Francis Fitz; Harry Fitz; Richard Fitz; and Charles Fitz. Mr. Randolph is a Republican,
and in religious faith is an Episcopalian.
George F. Randolph, deceased, was educated in the public schools of Johnstown,
and also took a course of study in a private institution. After completing his education,
he went to work in the offices of the Cambria Iron Company and gave satisfaction to his
employers. Resigning in 1883, he was offered and accepted a position in Beaver Fails,
ith the Carnegie Company, and was given entire charge of the nine-inch mill, including
the rollers and men. In 1889, while still in their, employ, he paid a visit to his birth place,
and it was while there that the calamity occurred which startled the whole world, in
which he with hundreds of others lost their lives. He was a loving husband and a fond father,
and it was indeed a sad bereavement to his devoted wife and their children. His union with
Mollie F. Scott resulted in the birth of two children : Mary F., born November 17, 1885;
and Helen F., born December 1, 1886. Politically, he was a supporter of the Republican party.
In a religious connection he was an attendant of the Methodist Protestant church.
ROGER COPE is one of the persevering, enterprising and successful lawyers at
the bar of Beaver county. He has, by virtue of his energy and ability, impressed himself
upon the borough of Beaver Falls, and has achieved marked success for a young man. He was
admitted to the bar in 1881 and took up his permanent residence in Beaver Falls, where he
opened an office for the practice of law. He was born in Fairfield township, Columbiana
county, Ohio, December 8, 185o, and is a son of Samuel D., grandson of Jesse, great-grandson
of John, great-great-grandson of John, who was a son of Oliver Cope, the first representative
of the family in this country, he having emigrated from England.
Jesse Cope was born in Fayette county, Pa., and in 1802 located in Columbiana county,
Ohio, where he followed farming. He was a Quaker. His wife was Margaret Dixon, and they
became the parents of eight children: Ellis; Samuel; Hiram; Elizabeth (Irwin); Mary (Taylor);
Ann; Hannah, and Lucinda. Jesse died aged fifty-six years. Samuel D. Cope was born in
Fairfield township, Columbiana county, Ohio, May 5, 1815, and was reared and trained to
agricultural pursuits, which he followed throughout his active career. In 1878, he retired
to Leetonia, Ohio, where he has since resided. He was joined in marriage with Alice Rogers,
a daughter of John and Phoebe Rogers of Columbiana county, and she passed from this earth
in 1864 aged forty-eight years. Their children were named as follows : Rufus is practicing
law in Chicago, Ill.; Mary Etta (Piersol), deceased; E. Cyrena (Rogers); F. Eudora, who
resides at Leetonia, Ohio; Roger; Emma A., deceased; Jeanette, deceased; Amanda F., who
lives at Oakland, Cal.; and Alice, who also resides at Leetonia, Ohio. Roger Cope's
father was formerly a Republican, but is now a Prohibitionist; during the Civil War
he was a strong anti-slavery man.
Roger Cope attended the public school of his native town and Mt. Union College, Ohio;
he then taught one year in his native county and one term at Georgetown, Illinois. Having a
desire to fit himself for the bar, he began studying with his brother Rufus, who was
practicing in that town; subsequently he took a course of lectures at the University of
Michigan, from which institution he was graduated in 1881. During his legal studies he
applied himself with intelligence, vigor and energy,and thoroughly familarized himself with
the theory and practice of law, as his subsequent progress well testifies. Upon graduation,
Mr. Cope immediately established himself in business at Beaver Falls, and he has many influential
and valuable clients, whose interests are looked after with fidelity and a great amount of success.
Mr. Cope was wedded June 28, 1894, to Mary C. Mercer, a native of Columbiana
county, Ohio, and they have one child, -Rue Alice. In politics, the subject of our
sketch is a stanch Republican ; socially, he is a K. of P.
JAMES H. WELCH, proprietor and general manager of the Welch Fire Brick Company
of Monaca, Pa., one of the oldest, best equipped and busiest of the manufacturing
plants in Beaver county, is a man of great energy and enterprise. His career has been
one of the greatest activity, having worked his way from a lowly station in life to
a position among the most prominent business men of this section of the state.
In 1878, Mr. Welch started the Welch Fire Brick Company at Monaca, soon after
the opening of the P. & L. E. R. R., and began the manufacture of the celebrated "W"
fire brick, fire bricks of all kinds for mills, furnaces, locomotive tile, cupolas,
and buff-building brick,-being the first in the vicinity to turn out that style of brick.
He ships the product to every section of the country, and the buff brick used in
Madison Square Garden in New York City, was procured from this establishment. He has
also owned works at Vanport, Pa., and is a member of the firm of Welch, Gloninger & Maxwell
of Welch, Pennsylvania.
James H. Welch was born in Red Brook, Monmouth, Eng., in 1846, on the 7th of June,
and received his intellectual training in the public schools of Monmouth, which he attended
until he reached the age of twelve years. He then went to work in a grocery store and
continued until he was seventeen years old. Being an intelligent appearing youth of fine
physique, he was appointed platform inspector and ticket collector at Ross Station, and
later joined the Cheltenham police force. This comprised his occupation until within two
days before he left England, in 1867, when he came to America settling in Pittsburg, Pa.,
where he secured a position as assistant yard-master on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad.
He subsequently entered the employ of the Pittsburg Gas Company and worked in the retort
house for three months, when he was appointed weighmaster. After a time, he resigned,
bought a team of horses and engaged contracting. He worked very hard, and his business
was flourishing, when he sold out to Minesinger Brothers eighteen years later. In the
meantime he had become interested in the brick works at Vanport, and he continued there
until he removed to Monaca and, in partnership with his brother, operated the
Welch Fire Brick Company. His brother, however, disposed of his interest and was succeeded
by Mr. J. H. Gloninger. He started with the old square kilns, but he has
made improvements and added modern appliances until the concern outclasses all
others in the locality. He was the first in the county to possess one of the celebrated
English continuous kilns, having 16 chambers and a capacity of 500,000 bricks. It is
a great saving and is distinguished from all others in that while one part is under
full heat, the others can be cooled off, emptied and filled. In connection with the
works are 135 acres of clay land, to which an incline leads by way of a side entry.
A new engine has just been put in to operate the incline, and the heavy grinding
and crushing machines for manufacture. This firm makes a specialty in shapes, one
contract calling for as many as forty different shapes. Be-sides the extensive
grounds which they have under cover, there is a building 175x90 feet, another
three-story building 112x60 feet, with dry tunnels carrying 90.000 bricks in the
dry room, and having a capacity of 25,000 per day. The office at the works is located
near the railroad, and the general offices and salesroom are located at Pittsburg.
Fifty men are in the employ of the company, and when the capacity of the works is
doubled as is contemplated, the force of workmen will be largely increased. Mr. Welch
is also a member of the firm of Welch, Gloninger & Maxwell of Welch, Pa., the town,
which is named after our subject, being supported by the works.
He owns a fine residence in Monaca, which stands upon an elevation above the town
and is called Welchmont. It is a very handsome home, being constructed of buff brick
after the owner's own plans, and it commands an excellent view of the surrounding
country. Mr. Welch also owns a fine dairy farm of 354 acres in Borie township,
containing 40 head of good Jerseys and registered Holsteins, and sells milk in
Beaver Falls. He raises considerable grain and hay, but it is all fed to the stock.
Politically, Mr. Welch is a strong Re-publican, but has never had the time to devote
much attention to party affairs. In religious attachments he is a Baptist, and,
socially, is a Royal Arch Mason.
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, the subject of this sketch, is a prominent educator of Beaver county, Pa.,
and has grown gray in the active service of that noble profession. He is a son of George and Jane (West)
Franklin, and was born August 25, 1831, in Sherburne, Chenango county, New York.
His mother died when he was very young, and the young lad was reared by a Connecticut
family. The name of his foster-father was Orrin Harmon, who removed to Ohio when
Benjamin was still very young. Mr. Harmon was a surveyor by trade and was in the employ
of the Connecticut Land Company. Upon going west to Ohio, he settled at Ravenna,
where the subject of our sketch obtained his primary education. This was supplemented
by a three years' course at the academy at Ashtabula, Ohio, after which young Franklin
completed the high school course at Ravenna, and then took a finishing course at Tappan Seminary,
his foster-father having a scholarship in that institution. Mr. Franklin then began his
life work for which he had spent many years in diligent preparation. He taught school
two years, and then went to Beaver county, Pa., in 1856. After locating permanently
in Industry township, where he purchased property, he has followed his chosen calling
almost uninterruptedly ever since. After teaching in Industry township for four years,
he taught one year in Ohio township. In 186o, he was elected principal of the
Fallston schools, where he remained four years by contract. At the close of that
time, he was offered a larger salary at North Bridgewater and remained there four
years. The people of Fallston then came forward and desiring his services, persuaded
Mr. Franklin to return to Fallston by giving him a very substantial increase in salary
over that received at North Bridgewater. So he returned to Fallston, and remained there
for six years, but as it was his intention to be a candidate for county superintendent
of Beaver County the following year, he did not accept the Fallston school, but taught
one term in Brighton township as involved a period of effort which would terminate
before election time.
In May, 1875, Mr. Franklin was elected county superintendent over M. L. Knight,
the incumbent at that time. At the close of his first term of three years, he was elected
again to the same position. After his second term had closed, Mr. Franklin aid not teach
forsome time, but purchased a store in Fallston, and engaged in mercantile pursuits, with
the assistance of his sons, for a period of five years. At the end of that time, Mr. Franklin
accepted a school at Smith's Ferry, being offered special inducements to take it and
discipline it. After spending one year there, he taught at Freedom for a year, at College
Hill near Geneva College, for two years, at West Bridgewater for two years, in a graded
school at Pulaski, in an independent school district for two years, and then returned to
West Bridgewater for two terms. Subsequently he retired to his farm in Brighton township
and superintended its affairs until 1898. In the autumn of that year he accepted the charge
of the school which he is now teaching in Brighton township. For thirteen years, Mr. Franklin
served on the board of examiners, and assisted in examining applicants for teacher's
certificates. In 1876, he conducted the examination of the Phillipsburg Soldiers' Orphan's
School for the state. He also made a creditable showing of school work at the Centennial
Exposition at Philadelphia in 1876, receiving the strong commendation of the authorities
who passed upon the work. Mr. Franklin has assisted in examinations at the State Normal,
at Edinboro, and also at Indiana State Normal Schools. Politically, our subject is a
Republican and has always followed that party to victory or defeat.
Mr. Franklin chose for his life partner, Martha Reed, a lady of rare intellectual
attainments, who bore him two sons, Orrin H., a successful dentist, a sketch of whose life is
also found in this publication; and Milo O., a machinist in the employ of the
Union Drawn Steel Works. The subject of this narrative and his wife are devout
worshippers in the Presbyterian church. Mr. Franklin has been elder and trustee
of that denomination for fifteen years. He is still serving in that official capacity,
and for nine years was superintendent of the Sabbath School.
JOHN C. BATES, a gentleman who has, for years, been one of the most enterprising
citizens of Rochester, Beaver county, Pa., has for a long period been identified with the
Rochester Tumbler Works. He is a son of William and Mary Jane (Thompson) Bates, and was
born in Steubenville, Ohio, in 1848.
William Bates, the father of John C., was also born at Steubenville, Ohio, and
through-out his entire life was engaged as a brick contractor. He died in his native town
at the age of sixty-five years. His union with Mary Jane Thompson, who was born at
West Brownsville, and is now living at the advanced age of seventy-four years, resulted
in the birth of three children: John C., whose name heads these lines; William, and George.
John C. Bates, the subject hereof, learned the trade of glass making when a boy,
at Steubenville, and from there he went to Wheeling, West Virginia, where he continued at
that occupation until he removed to Pittsburg. He plied his trade in the latter city
until 1877, when he came to Rochester, which has sincebeen his home. He assisted in the
Rochester Tumbler Works, and still efficiently serves in that capacity. He is a man of
excellent judgment, and has so conducted his affairs that he is rated among the prosperous
citizens of the community. He bought a vacant lot on Penn street, known as the Lloyd
property, and upon this he erected a handsome, modern house. In this he resided for years,
but he now makes his home with his daughter, Mrs. S. M. Kane, whose residence is on the
opposite side of the same street.
John C. Bates was united in marriage with Ida Cotton, of Pittsburg, and four
children blessed their home, namely: Virginia, the widow of Samuel M. Kane, a record of
whose life follows this paragraph; Bertha, deceased; John Emmett, and Georgella.
Mr. Bates is liberal in his religious views. Socially, he is a member of the Odd Fellows'
Lodge and Encampment, and the A. O. of M.
SAMUEL M. KANE, deceased, who was a man of sterling worth, and one of the
influential citizens of Beaver county, was an organizer of the Rochester Tumbler Works,
and general manager thereof up to the time of his demise. He was born May 1, 1839, in
Steubenville, Ohio, and as his father died when he was a child, Samuel was thrown upon
the world to battle for himself at an early age. Being of an energetic disposition, he
grasped what opportunities were his to obtain an education, at the same time finding
employment at glass manufacturing. He was ambitious and industrious, and progressed
rapidly, acquiring great skill as a workman. Early in life he went to Pittsburg,
as many of his associates did, and accepted a larger and more
profitable position. He availed himself of every opportunity for advancement, with
foresight and sound judgment, and became one of the organizers of the company which
built and operated the Rochester Tumbler plant, of Rochester, Beaver county, Pennsylvania.
Mr. Kane became its general manager, and under his skillful guidance, the business
increased to a wonderful extent, and the works were soon shipping to every state in the
Union, and to foreign markets. Today this concern is the largest establishment of its
kind in the world -for which development much credit is due to Mr. Kane. He possessed a
keen insight in business affairs, and identified himself with numerous enterprises which
not only benefited him in a financial way, but were of material advantage to the borough
and county. He was a director of the First National Bank of Rochester, president of the
Rochester Improvement Company, a stockholder and di-rector of the Rochester Electric
Light Plant, and a supporter of other business ventures. He erected an attractive home
on Pennsylvania street in Rochester, overlooking the beautiful Ohio Valley, and being
one of the finest in that locality. It is well arranged and chastely furnished, and its
interior appointments reflect much credit upon the refined taste of Mrs. Kane.
On January 17, 1895, while crossing the railroad near the factory, Mr. Kane
was run down by an engine and killed. It was the saddest accident that ever befell
the boroughof Rochester, and cast a heavy gloom over the entire community. Every citizen
mourned as for a brother, and there was universal commiseration. He had been a kind,
loving husband, and a true and faithful friend.
Fraternally, Samuel M. Kane was a thirty-second degree Mason; a member of
the Knights Templar and Scottish Rites lodges of Pittsburg; the R. A. M. of Rochester;
a charter member and past grand master of the Lodge and Encampment, I. O. O. F.;
a Woodman of the World; Royal Templar; he belonged to the Junior Order of United
American Mechanics, of which he was an honorary member. He was also the organizer of
the Order of Rebecca, at Rochester. Religiously, he was a devout member, and trustee,
of the Baptist church. A portrait of Mr. Kane precedes this sketch.
STEPHEN MOLTHRUP, an organizer of the Standard Gauge Steel Works, one of the
most prosperous and important of the industries of Beaver Falls, is efficiently serving
as superintendent of the plant. He was born in Loudonville, Ohio, December 1o, 1863, and
is a son of James C. and Rosanna (Rust) Molthrup, and grandson of William Molthrup.
William Molthrup was of Scotch-French descent and was born in Vermont, where he
lived for some years, having acquired an education and a knowledge of the trade of
shoemaking there. He removed to Erie, Pa., where he followed his trade for some time, and
then went to Ohio where he spent the balance of his life. He married a Scotch lady and
they had two children : Amanda, who was single; and James C., the father of Stephen.
James C. Molthrup was born in Vermont, April 4, 1822, and received his education
in the public schools there and at Erie, Pa., where he was taken by his parents when very
young. He learned the trade of a founder and machinist and worked for many years in the
shops of the Pennsylvania R. R. at Alliance and Crestline, Ohio, continuing in their
employ until after the close of the War, when he went into business for himself at
Loudonville. Remaining there until 1887, he moved to Beaver Falls and after following
the business of a pattern maker for some little time, he went to live a retired life at
the home of our subject until his death. He was married to Rosanna Rust, who was born
in Onondaga county, N. Y., March 30, 1829, and was a daughter of Stephen Rust. The following
children blessed this union : Amanda; Stephen, who died in infancy; Helen (Beavers);
Ida (Underwood); Mary (Chapel); Stephen, the subject hereof; James, who died young;
and William, whose trade is that of a machinist. Before the War Mr. Molthrup was a Democrat,
but at that time joined the ranks of the Republican party, of which he was an unswerving
supporter until his death. Religiously, he was a Methodist and was a trustee of the church.
Stephen Molthrup received his educationaltraining in the public schools of
Loudonville and Perrysville, Ohio, after which he entered the shops of his father and
learned the trade of a machinist. He moved to Beaver Falls in 1886, to accept a position
in the shops of the Carnegie Steel Company, and for six years he continued in their employ,
after which he was employed by the Union Drawn Steel Company. One year later he went to
Pittsburg, Pa., but after a short stay returned to Beaver Falls and re-entered the
service of the Carnegie Steel Company. In company with nine others, he was active in
the incorporation of the Standard Gauge Steel Company and became a charter member of
the concern. He was chosen as one of the directors and accepted a position as machinist.
Being a man of many years' experience and possessed of excellent business qualifications,
he was the man above all others to superintend the work of this plant, and he was soon
placed in charge. The firm has an established reputation for the excellency of its work,
for which much credit is due Mr. Molthrup, and it ranks to-day among the leading business
enterprises of Beaver Falls. The works covers an area of 300x100 feet, and they employ a
large force of men. The officers are as follows: A. Rasner, president; and J. W. Forbes,
vice-president; and the directors are: Messrs. Stephen Molthrup, Raymer, Dinger, Gilland,
Bevin, Forbes, Reed, and William Molthrup.
Mr. Molthrup was joined in marriage with Ellen M. Miller, a daughter of Philip Miller,
and they have a daughter, Helen. Politically, Mr. Miller is a Republican.
He is a member of the Methodist Church. Fraternally, he is a member of the Odd Fellows' Lodge.
MRS. MARY ANN BALDWN is the esteemed widow of the late Marcus M. Baldwin, who
was for several years one of the prominent business men of Beaver Falls. He was born in
New York City in 1821, and was the son of Gabriel Baldwin, whose parents came to this
country, from England.
Marcus M. Baldwin received his education in New York City, and learned the trade
of a ship carpenter. He moved to Pittsburg, and went to work at his trade on the river,
remaining there for some years, when he moved to Fallston, Beaver county, Pennsylvania.
There he took up the carpenter trade, working as a journeyman for some time. In partnership
with another man, he accepted a contract, and after they had completed the work, found
that there was a profit of forty dollars to each. With this small capital of $80, they
decided to continue, and with hard work, good business ability, and untiring energy, they
at last worked themselves to the top, and were known as reliable business men. Their
first office was on Sixth street, and the partnership beginning under such peculiar
circumstances lasted until the death of Mr. Baldwin, which occurred in 1886. He was a
man of splendid abilities and of sterling integrity, and was highly respected by all
who knew him. He served in the Civil War,answering to the call for volunteers, and was
a member of Battery B, Pittsburg Artillery. He was a firm Republican, and took an active
interest in the party, serving as a member of the council, and as school director. He
was one of the first business men in the county, and a member of the Presbyterian church.
The subject hereof, Mary Ann Baldwin, is a daughter of Henry and Harriet Mortley.
Henry Mortley was born in Kent, England, in 1812, and learned the trade of a marble cutter,
following this until his marriage, when he came to America, in 1834. He settled in
New York City, and remained there for several years. He was a very good workman, having
served seven years' apprenticeship in England, where he was always given a high grade
of work. During his later life, he moved to Ohio and continued working for some time,
when he met death in a very sad manner, accidentally drowning in the Hocking River.
His wife, Harriet Mortley was born in Hastings, Sussex County, England, and came of a
good English family. She was married when but nineteen years old, and although she
lived to be eighty-one years of age, she never ceased to mourn her husband's untimely death.
Mrs. Baldwin, the subject of this biography, was mentally trained in the public
schools and later learned the trade of dress-making, an occupation which she followed
until her marriage. She became the mother of eight children, as follows : Harriet (Pratt);
Victoria (Pritchard); Bessie; Caroline; Charles, a contractor; Ralph Vernon, a contractor;
Dorothy; and Marcus R., a clerk. She is greatly loved by all and has hosts of warm friends.
She is a member of the Episcopal church, and is ever willing to lend aid to any worthy cause.
HON. HARTFORD PERRY BROWN, whose portrait is shown on the opposite page, is one of the most prominent
and enterprising citizens of the town of Rochester, and takes an unusual amount of interest in the growth
and prosperity of his adopted town. He is interested in many local enterprises, being president and
general manager of the People's Electric Street Railway, secretary and general manager of the Beaver
Valley Traction Company, and secretary and treasurer of the Rochester Heat & Light Company; he is also
identified with several other important undertakings. He was born on a farm in Raccoon township,
Beaver county, Pa., August 7, 1851, and is a son of Oliver Hazard Perry Brown, and a grandson of
Amasa Brown.
The original emigrant of the Brown family was Peter Brown, who was of English origin,
and who came to America on the Mayflower in 1620. His grandson, George Brown, was born in 1696,
and was a farmer by occupation; he died in Colchester, Conn., February 5, 1765. He married Elizabeth Wells,
April 12, 1730, and they reared the following children : Elizabeth, born in 1731 ; Darius, born in 1733;
Charles, born in 1734; Lydia, bornin 1736; Hannah, born in 1738; two who died in their infancy; Ezra,
born in 1744; Jesse, born in 1746; Oliver, born in 1748; and Amasa, born in 1750. The next in line was
Jesse Brown, who was born in Colchester, Conn., February 2, 1746, but in early life went to Utica, N. Y.,
where he owned and operated a saw-mill; he was also a builder of boats. In 1770 he was first married to
Abigail Parke, a native of Norwich, Conn., and to them were born nine children, namely: Bernice, born in 1772;
Levi, born in 1773; Nathaniel, born in 1775; Amasa, the grandfather of Hartford Perry; Jeremiah, born in 178o;
one who died in infancy; Jesse, born in 1784; Parke, born in 1786, and George, born in 1792.
His second union was with Mrs. Marion Drew, by whom he reared two children, Abigail, born in 18o8, and John,
born in 1812. Amasa Brown was also born in Colchester, Conn., the date of his birth being September 12, 1777.
He worked with his father, learning the trade of a boat builder, in which he became a skilled mechanic.
As an agent of Aaron Burr, he went to Beaver county, and, in 18o6, was made master builder at Bridgewater.
Large flatboats were built, which were used t0 convey produce down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers.
Amasa Brown was killed, in 1829, while launching one of these boats. He wedded Eleanor Vankirk, and to
them were born six children : Milton; John; Hannah; Oliver H. P.; Mary; and Jesse.
Oliver Hazard Perry Brown was born in Phillipsburg, Pa., now called Monaca, June
10, 1820. He learned the boat building trade, which he followed for many years, and after
accumulating wealth, he moved to Raccoon township, Beaver county, where he began the life
of a farmer. This latter occupation he continued for eighteen months, and then returned to
boat building, settling at Freedom, Pennsylvania. He built three large boats; the first was
named Commodore Perry, which was at that time the best boat on the river; the second was
Parthenia; and the third was known as Hardtimes, which, singularly, earned more money than
any boat which plied the river at that time. The latter vessel was used in conveying cotton
from the valley of the Chattahoochee River to Apalachicola Bay. In 1865, he gave up boating,
and, in 1866, he bought the property of J. Ranson, on the corner of Vermont and West Adams
streets, Rochester, Pa. There he resided, until his death, on November 18, 1892. His wife was Mary McCombs,
who was born July 9, 1820, and whose death occurred June 20, 1889. The following children were born to this
happy union: Hartson Philmore, born in 1840, and died in 1841; Amanda Eleanor, born in 1842, and married to
Samuel R. Campbell, of Beaver Falls; Mary, born in 1844, and died in 1846; Amasa, born in 1848, and died in 1849;
Hartford Perry; and Parthenia, born in 1856, and died in 1863. Captain O. H. Perry Brown was one of the founders of
the banking house of John Conway & Co., in 1871; he was a charter member of the
Rochester Heat & Light Company, and one of its directors until his death.
The subject of this memoir was born in Freedom, Pa., and received his early
mental training in the schools of that town, and at Rochester Academy, and Beaver Seminary.
He prepared himself for Yale College under the private instruction of Drs. C. C. Riggs and
J. W. Scott-the latter having been president of Jefferson College, Washington, Pennsylvania.
In 1872, Mr. Brown accepted a position as bookkeeper in the Second National Bank at Pittsburg,
and was subsequently promoted to be teller; resigning his position in the bank, however,
he entered West Point Military Academy as a cadet from that district. He afterward became
a partner in the general mercantile business of Hon. Samuel J. Cross-the firm name being
known as S. J. Cross & Co. In 1878, Mr. Brown sold his interest therein to John Davis.
Then, in company with James Rees and Simpson Homer, he built the steam boat called Carrier,
but in 1884, sold his interest in this boat, and embarked in mercantile pursuits alone.
In 1886, he was elected to the legislature from this district, and consequently relinquished
his store. In 1888, he was re-elected to the legislature ; in 1888, and while a member of
the House, he introduced the Ship Canal bill, secured its passage and an appropriation
of $10,000, with a commission, which made a survey of the Lake Erie and Ohio River
Ship Canal, in 1889. In May, 1887, he assisted in the organization of the Rochester Heat & Light Company,
of which he was made secretary, and, later, treasurer. The gas of this company is nearly all produced in
Beaver county, and during the winter of 1898, a million cubic feet per day was used. Mr. Brown was one of the
promoters of the People's Electric Railway, which was opened to the public in August, 1892 ; the line is
four miles in length, extending from the Rochester junction of the Traction Company to Freedom and St. Clair,
and running four cars daily. He was elected president of this enterprise, and, July 1, 1897, he was made manager.
He is a stockholder in the Beaver Valley Traction Company Railway, and in 1892, was made secretary and general manager,
a position which he resigned in 1895, but was re-elected in 1899. He is also a stockholder in the Sharon Bridge Company,
the People's Insurance Company of Pittsburg, and was formerly a stockholder in the J. Conway banking house.
Mr. Brown was joined in marriage to Miss Sue T. Cross, a daughter of Samuel J. and
Frances E. (Wells) Cross. Hon. S. J. Cross was born in Washington township, Rhode Island,
January 6, 1828, and came to Beaver county in 1855. For twenty years he was the leading
merchant of Rochester. He passed from this life September 27, 1875. His wife now resides
with the subject of this sketch. Their children were named as follows : Sue Thurston,
the wife of Hartford Perry Brown; Julia Frances; Samuel Joseph; Emma Wells; George Herbert;
Thomas Wells; and May, who died in her infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Brown are the parents of
six children : Hartford Perry, Jr., who was born February 5, 1875, and died in 1889;
Frances Mary, born October 19, 1876; Emily Edna, born November 1878; Sue Thurston,
born October 27, 188o, and died in 1893; Julia Parthenia, born March 27, 1887; and
Stanley Quay, born February 17, 1889. Mr. Brown and family are members of the Baptist church.
In 188o, Mr. Brown erected a handsome brick residence on West Adams street, which he makes
his home.
WILLIAM G. ALGEO, Jr., master mechanic of the Union Dawn Steel Works, has won an enviable reputation as
master of his craft and is a highly esteemed and respected citizen of Beaver Falls, Pa., being also well-known
through Beaver county. He was born February 4, 1854, in Pittsburg, Pa., where he was also reared and schooled;
his educational advantages, however, were extremely limited, and he obtained only a slight
knowledge of the common branches. At the age of fifteen years, he quit school to learn
the trade of a machinist in Pittsburg. After completing his trade, he went to Rochester, Pa.,
where he learned the trade of a cabinet maker with his father, and remained in that
line of business until 1878. Entering the service of the Western File Works of Beaver Falls
he remained with them two years, as a journeyman. At the end of that time, Mr. Algeo was
employed by the Love Sewing Machine Co., at Rochester, Pa., and was occupied in the
manufacture of sewing machines for the next three years. He was subsequently engaged by the Standard Horse
Shoe Nail Works at Fallston, then by the Great Western File Works, and then by the Hartman Steel Company,
where he remained four years, three of which found him in charge of the machine department. Later, Mr. Algeo
entered the service of the Union Drawn Steel Company, being the first man hired by the company. The plant,
though small at first, has gradually been improved, and enlarged until it has become one of the largest
and most substantial enterprises of the town. Mr. Algeo's position is that of master mechanic and there is
hardly a detail in the whole range of the plant but what he can attend to with accuracy and skill. When work
has passed his expert and trained hand and eye, it is sure to have been done right.
Our subject is a stanch Republican, but has never sought nor held office.
He was at one time a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Jr. O. U. A. M., the I. O. of H.,
and the Maccabees. Like his honored father, William G. Algeo, Sr., whose sketch also
appears in this publication, he is a member of the Episcopal church. Our subject was
joined in marriage by the beautiful and impressive Episcopal service, with Nora Clayton,
a lady of rare accomplishments. Two children, Mabel and Alice, blessed their home for
a short time, but were taken away by the "grim reaper."
Our subject is a prominent citizen, public-spirited, generous, and liberal, and
has ever labored zealously to promote the welfare and prosperity of his town and county.
In his business sphere, he is everywhere known as a man of indomitable spirit, extreme
integrity, and correct method. The growing and valuable interests he directs show the
impress of a master mind. They are of the utmost importance not only to the people of
Beaver Falls, but to the manufacturing world as well. Mr. Algeo is recognized as a moving
spirit of the business and is accordingly esteemed and respected.
HON. JAMES SHARP WILSON, the highly esteemed president judge of the Thirty-sixth Judicial
District of Pennsylvania, whose portrait appears on the opposite page, is an honored
and talented attorney and a respected citizen of Beaver. Rarely do we find in the state
or even in the United States, a man so young as Judge Wilson occupying so important a
position, or one so mature in his profession. Judge Wilson has not yet reached his
thirty-seventh milestone in age, but he comes from a distinguished family, and has
inherited the power of leadership to a marked degree. It is said by some, that he is
now the youngest member of the Pennsylvania judiciary.
Like many of our best men, he was born on a farm. His birth occurred in Franklin
township, Beaver county, November 10, 1862. Early in life, he displayed his ambition for
knowledge, and soon matured not only mentally, but physically. As a student in the public
schools, he was ambitious, and at the early age of fifteen years, he began teaching a
district school, and was very successful in this task. While teaching he was also a student, preparing
for a college course. He entered Geneva College at Beaver Falls, from which he graduated in 1885,
receiving the degree of A. B. Since then the degree of A. M. has been conferred upon him by the same
institution. After his graduation, he became a law student under Hon. Henry Rice, of Beaver, and while
pursuing that study, he taught at intervals in the academy at Harmony, Pennsylvania. Judge Wilson was
admitted to the bar of Beaver county, June 4, 1888, and with his active brain and ambitious spirit,
he rapidly became a leader in the political organization of his favorite party, which was the Republican.
In 1895, he received the nomination for president judge of the Thirty-sixth Judicial
District, and although the conflict was a close one, he was victorious, and as usual,
carried off the honors. He fills the chair with dignity and his numerous friends predict
for him as brilliant a career on the bench as he has had in political leadership. By his
ability and success he proves himself to be a worthy scion of the Wilson family, so noted
for its prominent men. Judge Wilson is genial, cheerful, kindhearted, and obliging, and
ever ready to do a charitable act. In his religious views, he was reared a Presbyterian,
and steadfastly adheres to its faith, being a member of the church of that denomination.
Judge Wilson was united in marriage with Sarah I. Hazen on December 25, 1888. Mrs.
Wilson is a daughter of Nathan Hazen, whose sketch is found elsewhere in this volume, and
a granddaughter of Samuel Hazen, of both of whom mention is made in the sketch of
Christopher C. Hazen. Judge and Mrs. Wilson have a handsome modern home, with the Judge's
private office adjoining it, on the corner of Market and Second streets. This fine
residence was built in 1890, and is surrounded by spacious lawns, broad walks, and handsome
and ornamental shade trees. This home is rendered truly happy by the presence of the
following little ones who surround the fireside: John Howard, born February 1, 1890;
James Sharp, Jr., born June 5, 1894; Hugh Hazen, born March 9, 1898, and Mary Elizabeth,
born June 5, 1899. The Judge is included among the membership of many fraternal societies,
is past master of the F. & A. M. ; past grand of the I. O. O. F.; the Elks, and others.
Judge Wilson is a son of the late John II. Wilson,; grandson o Thomas Wilson, Jr.,
great-grandson of Thomas Wilson, Sr., and great-great-grandson of Hugh Wilson.
Hugh Wilson was born in County Cavan, Ireland, in 1689, and was a son of
Hugh Wilson, who was an officer in King William's army, and was one of the three men who
crossed the River Boyne, July 1, 1690,-facing great danger. For this act of heroism, he
was rewarded with a tract of land containing one hundred and sixty acres at Cootehill,
County Cavan, Ireland, where he established a country seat. His son, Hugh, married Sarah
Craig, and in 1728 came to America (history says), to escape religious persecution, settling
near Bethlehem in Northampton county, Pa., in what was known as the "Irish Settlement," and was
composed entirely of Old School Presbyterians. Hugh Wilson was one of the commissioners selected to
locate a site for the court house and jail, which was built at Easton. He was also one of the first
justices of the peace, and assisted in holding the first court held in Northampton county, Pennsylvania.
He purchased seven hundred and thirty acres of land, and received his title for the purchase in March, 1737.
With his son Thomas, he was interested in flouring mills. On retiring from active business, he settled
with his sons in Buffalo Valley, Pa., where he spent the last days of his life dying in 1773,
and being buried in the churchyard at Lewisburg. The following are his children's names: William,
who was born in Ireland, and became a merchant at Philadelphia, but was later located in the West Indies;
Mary Ann, wife of Francis McHenry; Elizabeth, wife of Captain William Craig; Thomas, who married
Elizabeth Hayes; Charles, who married Margaret McNair; Samuel ; James ; Margaret, wife of William McNair; a
nd Francis, who returned to Ireland, became an Episcopal minister, and was later appointed tutor for
the family of General Lee, of Virginia.
Thomas Wilson, great-grandfather of the subject hereof, was the next in line,
and was born in Allen township, Northampton county, Pa., in 1724. When he attained the
age of twenty-one years, he erected a flouring mill, with his father, and, by contract,
furnished flour for the continental army; he received his pay in continental money,
and in doing so lost almost his entire property. Selling what little remained, he took
the proceeds and, with his family, located in Buffalo Valley, Union county, in 1792.
There he purchased a tract of forest land, and cleared some in order to cultivate the
soil. This was about one mile from Lewisburg, where the county-fair grounds and buildings
are now situated. Thomas died in 1799, at the age of seventy-four years. He married
Elizabeth Hayes, a daughter of John and Jane (Love) Hayes. Mrs. Wilson, in 1803, some
years after her husband's death, sold the property, and with her sons, William and Thomas,
removed to Beaver county, Pa., where her death occurred, in 1812. Their children were:
Hugh, born October 21, 1761, and married to Catherine Irwin; Sarah, wife of Richard Fruit;
Elizabeth, wife of James Dunken; William, who married Ann White; Thomas, Jr., grandfather
of the subject hereof, who will be mentioned later herein; Mary, wife of Jonathan Coulter;
Jane, who was unfortunately drowned while young; James; and Margaret, wife of John Thomas.
Thomas Wilson, Jr., grandfather of James Sharp, was born June 17, 1765, and settled
in Beaver county, in 1803. He purchased a tract of land in Franklin township, built a log
cabin and engaged in clearing the land. In those early days, as there was little or no
chance to market the timber, the first clearing was done by felling and burning the trees, so
that a place might be prepared in which to raise grain and vegetables for household
subsistence. The chief aim of the pioneers and settlers of that period was to establish a home
and rear a family. They were happy with children around the old and spacious fireside. Game was plentiful,
the creeks were alive with fish, and wild animals abounded. Here Thomas Wilson, Jr., spent the
remainder of his days, and saw much of the forest of his youth, turned into blossoming fields
under a good state of cultivation.
He was an active, energetic man, proud of spirit, and austere in business relations,
yet kind and charitable to his neighbors. He was united in marriage with Agnes Hemphill,
October 7, 18o6, and reared a family whose names are as follows: James, born
September 19, 1807, and married to Margaret Morton; Nancy B., born December 25, 1808, and
joined in wedlock with David Frew; Jane, born March 31, 1810, unmarried; Eliza, born
June 5, 1812, who became the wife of Robert Fullerton ; Thomas, born November 26, 1813,
whose life partner was Mary Davidson; Mary A., born February 6, 1816, who died single;
William, born May 7, 1818, who is also single; Col. Joseph H., who was born May 16, 1820,
and died May 30, 1862; John, father of the subject hereof, whose career will be mentioned
later; Francis S., born July 2, 1824, and wedded to Caroline Wallace; and Craig B., born
December 24, 1827, and joined in matrimony with Elizabeth Pontius. The old homestead
formerly owned by Thomas Wilson, Jr., grandfather of James Sharp, is now owned by the heirs
of Francis S. Wilson.
John H. Wilson, father of the subject hereof, was born May 22, 1822. He was reared a
farmer, and chose that vocation for his life work. He was a man of sterling qualities, and
of a notably energetic disposition. From the very start, his life was successful; little
by little he accumulated property. His home was in Franklin township, where he passed the
closing years of his life. Mr. Wilson was looked upon as one of the leading men of
his vicinity ; a man who was not only thorough in his agricultural operations, but in all
his actions as well,-taking great pride in improving and beautifying his place. He served
one and one half years as county commissioner. At the time of his death, June 16, 1892,
Mr. Wilson owned several farms in the eastern part of the county.
March 18, 1849, the elder Mr. Wilson led to the hymeneal altar, Mary E. Mehard,
daughter of James Mehard, who came from Ireland to America and located near Wurtemburg,
Pennsylvania. Mrs. Wilson was of Scotch-Irish descent. She preceded her husband to the
grave more than three years,-passing away to her final rest on April 28, 1889, at the age
of fifty-nine years. This highly respected couple reared a family of six children, viz.:
Nancy Jane; Christiana Orr; William L. ; Omar T. ; James Sharp; and Loyal W.
Nancy Jane was born December 26, 1849, and was twice married, her first husband being
Dr. J. M. Withrow, and the second being James A. Jackson; she now resides in North
Sewickley township, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. Christiana Orr, wife of J. G. McAulis,
of Lawrence county, Pa., was born February 17, 1852. William L. was born May 2, 1854;
he wedded Anna Hilman, and resides on the homestead farm. Omar T. was born March 4, 1857;
he was joined in matrimony with Virginia West, Hon. James Sharp is the subject of this
review. Loyal W., M. D., was born March 25, 1866. He chose for his wife, Emma Weitz,
and now practices medicine in New Castle, Pennsylvania.
JOHN MARTIN, a young man who has always been engaged in the manufacture of bricks,
holds the important position of foreman of the Pennsylvania Clay Manufacturing Company,
of Monaca, Pa., in which capacity he has efficiently served since 1897.
This is one of the six large plants controlled by Park Brothers, with general
offices at Rochester, Pa., and it is one of their best. It is known as "No. 4," and is
devoted to the manufacture of paving brick exclusively, the output being 25,000 finished
bricks per day. This yard was established many years ago, but did not come into possession
of the present firm until 1895. There are forty acres of clay of a superior quality,
and the mine is a 12 ft. vein sunk through a 72 ft. shaft, the material being conveyed
from the mines to the works on a train road. It is dumped into a set of rolls and crushed,
then carried by an automatic elevator into a mill where it is ground and mixed for the
brick machine. When it comes from the brick machine which has a capacity of 35,000 per day, it is
ready for the dry kilns, a double deck affair with a capacity of 100,000 and from there it is taken
to the kiln. Of these they have ten of the round, down draught variety, each one of them holding
from 47,000 to 70,000 bricks. Facilities for shipping are of the best, being located on the P. & L. E. R. R.
The firm have a Columbia engine of 125 horse power, and ship all of the product to local, Western, Pennsylvania
and Eastern Ohio markets. Mr. Martin has complete charge of the operation of these works, and as he has been
engaged in that line of work all his life, he conducts them in the most efficient manner. He has 35 men in his
employ, with whom he is exceedingly popular and they, one and all, accord him the greatest respect.
John Martin was born in Clarion county, Pa., July 29, 1869, and attended the public schools until he was
thirteen years old, when he accepted a position in a brick yard. His first engagement was with the Climax Fire Clay Company,
with which he remained for ten years, learning his trade in the most thorough manner. He then moved to Beaver county,
and for five years faithfully performed similar duties in the employ of Barnes & Company. In 1897, he resigned his position
to accept that of foreman of the plant he now operates, one of the substantial concerns of Monaca. He has taken a deep interest
in the progress of this little borough, and has made many friends since locating there.
On July 4th, 1895, Mr. Martin was unitedin marriage with Lillie Mennall, a native of Beaver county, and a daughter of
Richard Mennall, and they are the parents of two children : William, who was born in 1896; and Melvin, who was born in 1898.
Mr. Martin has dealt some in real estate, but has now discontinued that business; he bought his present residence in 1899.
He is a member and steward of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically, he is a sturdy supporter of the Republican party.
He is a member of the Woodmen of the World.
DR. SAMUEL DIXON STURGEON, a leading physician of New Galilee, Pa., whose portrait appears
on the opposite page, has been located in that thriving little town since 1891. He enjoys
quite an extensive practice, considering the short time he has been there, and is frequently
obliged t0 take long drives in the country on professional duty. He is patronized by many
well-to-do citizens, and owns a fine modern residence. Shortly after purchasing this
home, Dr. Sturgeon built a large and convenient barn to comfortably shelter his driving horses. Dr. Sturgeon was born at
Moblestown, Allegheny county, Pa., July 7, 1851. He is a son of Henry P. and Miriam L.(Ewing) Sturgeon.
When Samuel was five years old, his parents removed to Ashland county, Ohio, where he lived until he had attained
the age of sixteen years. His academic schooling was received at Greersburg Academy and Beaver College.
He taught school eight years in Beaver county, first at Oakdale, one term, then at Brush Run, one term, South Beaver,
one term, Brighton township, three terms, Bridgewater, one term and at Darlington public school, one term.
He then decided upon a professional career, and entered the Western Reserve University of Cleveland, Ohio,
where he pursued a course of medicine. He graduated from that institution with a degree of M. D., in the class of 1884.
In May of the same year, Dr. Sturgeon opened an office as general practitioner at Darlington. His pleasant,
courteous manner and agreeable ways soon made a favorable impression on the people, and brought him patients.
He remained in Darlington for seven years and then sold out, locating next at New Galilee, where he still remains.
Dr. Sturgeon married Fanny K. Tyler, an accomplished daughter of Moses W. Tyler. Mrs. Sturgeon was born
in Brattleboro, Vt., and moved to Erie, Pa., with her parents, when quite young. It was there that she obtained
her primary education. Her classical training was received in Boston, Massachusetts.
Besides his property in New Galilee, the Doctor has several outside investments. Politically,
he affiliates with the Republican party, and has served a number of years as a member of the county
executive committee. In addition to this, he has held all the township offices. He takes a keen interest
in local affairs,-being on the school board and in the borough council. The church relations of Dr.and Mrs. Sturgeon
are with the Presbyterian denomination, of which church the Doctor has been a trustee for many years. Socially, o
ur subject is a valued member and past master of Meridian Lodge, No. 411, F. & A. M.
ROBERT S. IMBRIE, real estate dealer and insurance agent of Beaver, Pennsylvania, is a gentleman whose
life has been spent wholly in Beaver county, Pa., with the exception of three years passed in Franklin county,
in the same state, and, although he appears to be a man of middle age, is to-day in his seventy-first year.
He obtained his elementary education in the public schools of his native place, taking a finishing
course at Beaver Academy, and afterwards following the profession of teaching for a period of five years.
He next engaged in mercantile pursuits by conducting a branch store with his brother at Mercersburg,
Franklin county, Pa., for about two and one-half years. Later he went into the same business alone,
keeping a general store at Loudon, Franklin county, until 1861, when he sold out and started a new store at Darlington, Beaver
county. Upon the death of his father, in 1864, he again sold out his business and went upon
the homestead farm, which he conducted and managed for his mother until it was sold a
year later. Mr. Imbrie then accepted a position with the Wheeler & Wilson Sewing Ma-
chine Co., at Beaver, and continued as their general agent for a period of nine years, being
very successful at that business, and selling hundreds of sewing machines. He subsequently severed his
connection with that firm and dealt for some time in agricultural implements, that he might have occupation
at home where he could share domestic pleasures and companionships. But the machine companies sought his services again,
and he was finally induced to enter that sphere once more, engaging with the White Sewing Machine Co.
for one year, and with the American for three years.
Our subject then abandoned that business entirely, and turned his attention to fire insurance,
associating with the firm of Hurst & Imbrie. Later, at the death of Mr. Hurst, fire insurance was dropped and
life insurance was taken up in its stead. Since then Mr. Imbrie has been connected with the "Mutual Life, of New York,"
the "Manhattan" and the "Equitable." The latter is the one in which he is now mainly interested. Some years ago,
our subject built a residence on Third street, which is now owned by Mr. Shoemaker, but later, purchased his
present residence on North Park street. This is a large, handsome structure of brick, built by his brother Delorme,
in 1859; it is a beautiful place, and is finely located, making an ideal homestead.
In 1859, Nancy E. Scott, a favorite daughter of William Scott, a highly respected resident of New Brighton,
Beaver county, became the wife of Mr. Imbrie, and is said to be a very attractive and entertaining lady.
To them were born the following children: Mary, who died in her fourth year; J. Maurice, a -molder, deceased
at the age of thirty years,who wedded Ella Morgan and had three children, Martha, Robert, and Paul; Nannie S.,
wife of Joseph Irons, of Beaver Falls, who has two children, Lorain and Helen; Nettie, a stenographer, of Pittsburg;
Mabel, a music teacher, of Pittsburg; Grace, who is still at home, and is a fine musician; and Jessie, also a stenographer,
of Pittsburg.
In his political views our subject has ever been a Republican, and although he has never sought office or
political distinction, he has served as school director and as member of the borough council. In business he is careful,
shrewd, and trustworthy. Enjoying the patronage of the best class of people, his work is executed with facility and dispatch.
As a neighbor, he is kind and obliging, and his enterprising spirit has been felt in all movements to advance the
welfare of his community. In his religious convictions, Mr. Imbrie is a devout Christian and a member of the
United Presbyterian church; he has served many years as elder and as superintendent of Sunday School.
Robert S. Imbrie was born in Big Beaver township, Beaver county, Pa., August 12, 1829. He is a son of
John and Nancy (Rankin) Imbrie, and grandson of David and Mary Imbrie. David Imbrie was a native of Scotland,
and while still a single man came to the United States. He was a tanner by trade. He became the owner of a tannery
in Westmoreland county, Pa., and conducted it for many years. Late in life he retired from that business and spent
his closing years upon a farm previously purchased by him. Both he and his good wife Mary lived to a good old age.
Their children were: David; Robert; James; John, father of Robert S.; George; Mrs. Catherine Slone; Mrs. Mary Fleck;
and Mrs. Jane Maloney.
John Imbrie was born in Westmoreland county, Pa., where he early learned the trade of a tanner in his father's
tannery. Some years after arriving at manhood, he removed to Big Beaver township, Beaver county, Pa., and purchased
a farm of 106 acres, heavily timbered. Erecting a tannery upon his land, he carried on that business for several years,
but later turned his attention to farming. He bought 5o acres quite near his former purchase, and upon it passed the
remainder of his life. This farm was commonly known as the Economite farm, and upon it his death occurred at the age
of seventy-three years. He was joined in wedlock with Nancy Rankin, daughter of James Rankin. She survived her
husband until she reached her eighty-eighth year.
John Imbrie rendered eminent services to our country during the War of 1812, being stationed at Fort Erie.
He was looked upon as an influential citizen, and above all a man who could be trusted, and enjoyed the love
and esteem of all who knew him. Possessed of good judgment, and richly endowed with perseverance, he carried
through to a successful termination his every undertaking. He served as justice of the peace, and as county commissioner,
many years. He was a Seceder, and later, a United Presbyterian. He and his much beloved wife reared the following family
(all of whom are now deceased except Robert S. Imbrie and his brother John): Addison; Delorme; Mary, wife of J. P. Martin,
whose life history is found elsewhere in this volume; Nancy, wife of James L. Ansley; Robert S., subject of this biography ;
Minerva, who died at the age of eighteen years ; John, still single; Jeremiah R.; and David. The last two served in the
Civil War in the loth Reg. Pa. Reserves, and both died from the effects of the exposure and hard-ships of campaigning.
JOHN F. FERGUSON has been a prominent citizen of the borough of Beaver Fans for the past ten years and is the proprietor
of one of its leading livery stables. He has been engaged in various enterprises in this locality, all of which have proved
successful, and he is a popular and well-to-do citizen. He was born in this county, December 8, 185o, and is a son of John
and Janiza (Elliott) Ferguson. John F. Ferguson's great-grandfather was a life-long resident of his native country, Ireland.
John Ferguson, the grandfather of John F., was also a native of Ireland, and was a tallow-candle maker by trade;
he was the sole member of the family who came to this country. He settled in Beaver county, where he spent his remaining days
in carrying on agricultural pursuits. He built a house, which still stands on the premises. He was the father of a son and
four daughters,-John, Mary, Maria, Ann, and Sarah, all of whom are deceased with the exception of Mary.
John Ferguson was born on the homestead March 31, 1814, and resided there all his life, pursuing the vocation of a farmer.
As a result of his marriage with Janiza Elliott, a family of two sons and three daughters was reared, as follows:
Agnes, who is the wife of Henry Sloan of New Brighton, Pa.; John F. ; Sarah Jane, who is the wife of Elisha Baxter
of Beaver Falls; Mary E., who was united in marriage with Abram Berry and resides in New Brighton; and Thomas B.,
who has charge of the old homestead.
John F. Ferguson possesses a common school education and spent his boyhood days assisting his father at home;
he continued to remain on the home farm until thirty-five years of age, when; he decided to go into business on his own account;
he began contracting and teaming in Beaver Falls and New Brighton, and followed that occupation until 1888. In that year he
opened a livery business in Beaver Falls, and has successfully conducted it up to the present time. He has established a
fine trade and is well worthy of the large patronage he receives. For many years he was engaged in the ice business,
but sold out in 1893. He is an enterprising and progressive citizen, and possesses the esteem and good-will of his many
acquaintances. Mr. Ferguson formed a matrimonial alliance with Miss Jeannetta L. Anderson, a daughter of Frank Anderson,
of Beaver Falls, the nuptials occurring August 31, 1896. In religious belief he favors the Methodist denomination.
In politics, he is a Republican.
DR. WILLIAM S. COOK is a young dentist who has built up a large practice in the short time he has re-sided in Beaver Falls,
and is likely to become one of the most prominent and successful dentists of his time. Dr. Cook was born in Darlington,
Beaver county, May 31, 1868, and was educated at Greersburg Academy, an institution of learning established in Darling-ton, in 1802.
Immediately after his graduation therefrom, June 11, 1886, young Cook entered upon the noble profession of teaching,
following that calling for a period of three years in his native county. At the close of that time, he began the study of dentistry,
and in 1889 entered the Philadelphia Dental College, from which he graduated February 26, 1891. Immediately after his graduation,
Dr. Cook located in Beaver Falls, where he established an office and engaged in the practice of his profession.
He has been located since October 1st, 1898, at the corner of Sixth avenue and Twelfth street, where his many patrons seek
him both early and late. Dr. Cook is a member of the Odontological Society of Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio.
The doctor has a rare literary talent which, coupled with a thorough knowledge of his profession, has given him a chance
to distinguish himself. He has read papers, prepared in an intelligent and able manner, before the above mentioned society.
Among his most noted papers are "The Cleft Palate," "The Repair of the Cleft Palate by Means of the Obturator."
He has also written and read other papers of less importance than those above noted. Dr. Cook is an enthusiastic Republican,
and never fails to do his duty toward that party when election day arrives. He has served as a member of the council
from the third ward of Beaver Falls and, fraternally, is a member of the Woodmen of the World.
Miss Jane E. Anderson became the Doctor's bride on December 27, 1893. Although he and his accomplished wife have
no family of their own, they greatly delight in and admire the little "fairies of light." They are both willing members
and workers of the United Presbyterian Church and are known throughout the community as kind hearted, charitable people.
Dr. Cook is a son of Thomas and Margaret (Duff) Cook, and grandson of James Cook.
James Cook was a native of Ireland and was of Scotch-Irish descent. He came to America when young and shortly
afterward located in Darlington, Beaver county, Pa., where he purchased a farm and engaged in clearing it for the purpose
of utilizing the rich soil. He lived upon that farm the remainder of his life, engaged in agricultural pursuits.
Upon this old homestead near Darlington, Thomas Cook, the father of William S., wasborn, January 16, 1845, and was reared
and educated in the same locality, remaining there until 1861, at the breaking out of the Civil War. He enlisted in the
Union Army as a member of Company D, tooth Reg. Pa. Vol., known as "The Round Head" regiment. Mr. Cook served with that
regiment until his discharge, the latter part of November, 1862. The most important battles in which he participated were,
James' Island, Hilton Head, S. C., and Chantilly, Va., in which last engagement he was wounded, and was taken to a hospital
at Point Lookout, Md., where he was-confined from the first of September until he received his discharge in November.
Returning from the war, he learned the blacksmith's trade, completing his apprenticeship in 1865. He then began working
as a blacksmith in Darlington, where he also engaged in the manufacture of carriages and wagons in connection with his trade.
He remained in Darlington until 1889, when he went to Beaver Falls, and has since followed the same line of business.
In his political views, Mr. Cook is a Republican, and has always taken an active interest in the success of that party,
although he has never sought political distinction. He is a member of Beaver Falls Lodge, F. & A. M., also of Harmony Chapter,
No. 206, R. A. M., at Beaver Falls, and is a past colonel of the Union Veteran Legion, No. 4, of Beaver Falls. He is also a
member of the L. A. W. and a charter member of Beaver Valley Cycling League No. 88, which was organized in the early part of 1893,
with fourteen members and, at the present writing, has a membership of one hundred and twenty-six, and occupies the entire
second story of the Martsolf building, on Seventh avenue. He has been one of the board of directors since its organization,
and is now serving as its president; he has been twice a delegate. Dr. Cook is known to be a conscientious and honorable man;
by his pleasant manner and courteous bearing, he at once gained the good will of the citizens of Beaver Falls,
while his close application to his profession and the painstaking care he exercises in the cases that have fallen to his share,
have won him the confidence of the entire community. The marvelous rapidity with which he has built up his present practice
is almost incredible to one unacquainted with the doctor's push and energy.
JOHN B. WILSON. Among the enterprising and reliable business men of Beaver, Pa., is the gentleman whose name appears
at the opening of this biography, who is the senior member of the well known firm of J. B. Wilson & Son, the largest
hardware merchants in the community. Mr. Wilson also deals largely in real estate, owning several houses and lots out
in the east end of Third avenue, which is now considered the most beautiful residence portion of Beaver. His ancestors
were of Scotch-Irish descent, and his grandfather was pioneer of the family in this country. Industry town-ship,
Beaver county, Pa., is the birthplace ofour subject, his birth occurring on February 2, 1839. He is a son of
Thomas and Jane (Burnsides) Wilson. George Wilson, grandfather of John B., was a native of the northern part of Ireland
and was of Scotch ancestry; in 1819, he came to this country with his family of five children, and took up a tract of
fifty acres in Industry township. He sold this property, which is now the James Jackson farm, and then bought two hundred
and forty acres of timber land. He erected a log house and had resided upon his newly purchased land but a short time when
death claimed him; he was then about sixty years of age. He was married to Elizabeth Lindsey, also a native of Ireland,
and their children were as follows: Thomas; James, settled in Hannibal, Mo.; George, deceased; Margaret, wife of
William Sutherland of Hannibal, Mo. ; and Catherine, who was wedded to William Humphrey. George Wilson and his wife were
buried in the old Beaver cemetery.
Thomas Wilson was born in Ireland in 18o8, but was reared to manhood on his father's farm in Beaver county,
and upon his father's death he took charge of the homestead; after attaining an advanced age, his son, George Wilson,
took charge of the farm, and is still in possession of it. He was wedded to Jane Burnsides, also a native of Ireland,
and a daughter of John Burnsides, who came to this country and located in Dresden, Ohio, where he carried on farming.
Mr. Wilson died when eighty-three years old, while his wife departed this life in 1872, aged fifty-five
years. They reared the following four children : George, who has the homestead; John B.; Margaret, the wife of
C. A. Bowers of Beaver; and Eliza. Religiously, the family were Presbyterians; politically, Mr. Wilson was a Republican.
John B. Wilson was reared on the old homestead and received his mental training in the public schools of that district;
after teaching school two years, he went to Beaver to learn the plasterers' trade; he then engaged in contracting for about
eight years, after which he located in Youngstown, Ohio, where he embarked in the grocery business for a period of ten years;
on disposing of this he returned to Beaver and began the sale of agricultural implements; this was in 1875. The continual
increase of his patronage made it necessary to seek large accommodations, and accordingly, in 1883, he bought the old
Clark Hotel property, which is located on Third street. He turned the old building around and rebuilt it, putting on an
additional story, and also building barns and a large warehouse. He stocked the concern with a complete line of hardware goods,
and the business progressed satisfactorily until March 2, 1888, when the entire building was destroyed by fire. Mr. Wilson
immediately built a brick building 30 by 100 feet, and also erected a warehouse. The other half of the lot he sold to Mr. Anderson.
An extensive stock of hardware goods and implements was then put into the new structure and Mr. Wilson con-ducted the largest
and best equipped store of its kind in the county. In 1897, the subjectof our sketch took in his son as a partner, and the firm
name was afterwards known as J. E. Wilson & Son; the capital stock of the firm has been increased to $10,000. Mr. Wilson
purchased a square on Third and Wilson avenues, and on the corner lot erected a handsome brick residence ; he has also built a
double-house adjoining his home, and has sold many lots in the block. He is a progressive and loyal citizen ; intelligent and well-read;
and he has a host of acquaintances in the vicinity.
Mr. Wilson and Matilda Eakin, a daughter of J. R. Eakin, were united in marriage, and they are parents of three children:
Mary E. ; Genevieve C. ; and Royal Q.; the latter is connected with his father in the hardware business, and is one of the most
promising young business men in Beaver; like his father, he has won the esteem and confidence of all. Mr. Wilson and family a
re all members of the Presbyterian church, the former having been a trustee of the church for the past twenty years;
politically, he is a Republican.
WILLIAM G. HARKER. One of the prominent and successful industries of Beaver Falls, Pa., is that of Knott, Harker & Company,
-manufacturers of fire-grates, hardware novelties and castings of all kinds; the gentleman whose name appears at the
opening of this biography is the superintendent of the above enterprise and much of the success of the plant is due to his
good judgment and untiring efforts. He-was born on the Conoquenessing Creek, Beaver county, April 15, 1851, and is a
son of William and Mary Ann (Peatling) Harker.
William G. Harker's parents were both born in Lancastershire, England, and shortly after their marriage they
came to the United States, in 1846, and located on a farm in Beaver county; until 1854 he was engaged in farming,
but in that year he settled in New Brighton, and worked in a saw-mill. He afterwards entered the employ of W. P. Townsend & Co.,
remaining in their employ until death claimed him. He was a Republican in politics; religiously, he was an active and
consistent member of the Methodist Protestant church. He was married in his native country and became the father of the
following children : Mary Ann, the wife 0f J. W. Graham of New Brighton; Charlotte, the de-ceased wife of W. H. Elverson
of the New Brighton Pottery Works; William G.; Lizzie, wedded to J. H. Rice, a farmer in Michigan; Charles E.,
a machinist residing in New Brighton; Carrie, wedded to Sheldon Roat, a farmer living in Michigan; and Albert P.,
a machinist, of New Brighton.
William G. Harker attended the common schools of New Brighton and at an early age served an apprenticeship to
the molders' trade; he then accepted the superintendency of the Beaver Falls Car Works Foundry, in which capacity he
continued to serve for a period of eight years. Upon the organization of the Knott, Harker & Company enter-prise,
the subject of our sketch was madesuperintendent,-a position he has faithfully filled up to the present time.
The company is engaged in the manufacture of fireplace-grates, hardware novelties, and all kinds of castings;
it also operates a machine shop and gives employment to some 6o skilled hands. Mr. Harker is an expert mechanic
and is greatly respected by the employees under his charge ; he is an intelligent and loyal citizen,
commanding the good-will of all who know him.
Politically, Mr. Harker is a Republican, although in local matters, he always supports the one whom he considers
best qualified for the position. He is a member and trustee of the Methodist Protestant church of New Brighton; socially,
he is a member of the K. of P., and a director of the Y. M. C. A. of New Brighton. On October 26, 1875, Mr. Harker was
joined in matrimonial bonds with Miss Irene Wilson, a daughter of Joseph Wilson of New Brighton, and they are the parents
of the following children : Joseph, deceased; Ernest Ira, deceased; Clyde ; and Elsie.
EDWARD JAMES ALLISON, whose portrait is shown on the preceding page, is cashier of the First
National Bank of Beaver, Beaver county, Pa., and is one of the most enterprising and highly
esteemed citizens of the county He has distinguished himself in business circles as a
shrewd, practical and conservative man, whose judgment has not failed him in critical
moments. His record has been honorable, and his integrity is unquestioned. He has ever been quick to see
the main chance in business, and has accumulated a handsome competency by the most open methods. Mr. Allison,
who is a descendant of one of Beaver county's most noted men, was born at Bridgewater, in February, 1852,
and is a son of Thomas and Emily (Logan) Allison, and grandson of Hon. James Allison.
Hon. James Allison, attorney-at-law, of Beaver, was born in Virginia or Maryland, where his father,
James Allison Sr., owned a very large plantation and numerous slaves. Hon. James Allison chose the profession of a lawyer,
and was educated at a law school at Washington, D. C. About 1794, he located in Beaver, Pa., and engaged in the practice
of his profession. As there were few lawyers there at that early date, he had more business at times than he could attend to;
he was considered one of the ablest lawyers of his day, making a specialty of clearing up land titles. After he succeeded
in establishing a large and well-paying practice, he was twice elected to Congress, but resigned during his second term,
to resume his practice, which was far more remunerative. He accumulated a handsome competency, and was esteemed by all
who knew him. He lived to the good old age of eighty-three years, and his companion departed from his side in her
sixty-seventh year. His wife, who was a Miss Bradford, bore her husband the following children: John; Samuel;
William; James ; Thomas; Sarah; Margaret; Juliette; and two who died in early childhood.
Thomas Allison, the father of Edward James, was a pupil in Beaver Academy, and early in life began a
mercantile career at Bridgewater, conducting a store for a period of twenty-two years, at the same stand now
occupied by R. S. Ranger. Mr. Allison subsequently removed his business to Beaver, where he was similarly engaged
for fourteen years, on the corner of Third street and College avenue. In 1892, Mr. Allison retired from business
pursuits, and one year later his death occurred, at the age of seventy-six years. He was united in marriage with
Emily Logan, a daughter of Joshua and Sabina (Swift) Logan, respected citizens of Beaver county. The maternal grandmother
of Mr. Allison, Sabina Swift, was a granddaughter of Lucy Eliot, a lineal descendant of Rev. John Eliot, "the apostle to the Indians."
In 1646, the legislature of Massachusetts passed an act for the propagation of the gospel among the Indians, and in the same year
John Eliot began his labors at Nonantum, of forming churches and translating the Bible and other Christian books.
The beloved mother of the subject of this record is still living, and resides at Beaver.
Edward James Allison was the only child of his parents, and received his finishing education at Beaver Academy.
He began his career by working in his father's store, where he continued until he was appointed teller of the First National Bank
of Rochester, Pennsylvania. This position he occupied for five years, resigning to become cashier of the First National Bank
of Beaver, Pa., his present responsible position.
The First National Bank was established March 31, 1888, with a capital 0f $50,000, Edward B. Daugherty
being president, Hon. John M. Buchanan, vice-president, and Edward J. Allison, cashier. At the death of E. B.. Daugherty,
in 1897, Hon. J. M. Buchanan became president, and Dr. J. H. Wilson, vice-president. The bank is located in the Anderson block,
and is one of the handsomest and best ordered business places in Beaver Valley. The building is centrally located, and its rooms
are well lighted by one of the finest plate glass fronts in the county. Its interior is newly decorated, and its construction
and arrangement are thoroughly adapted for the purpose for which it was intended. It contains a beautiful office, finely decorated,
and private offices for the president and directors. It is heated throughout with steam, and contains one of the best vaults of
modern date, with time-lock, etc. The bank is considered not only proof against fire and burglars, but is conducted on safe lines.
In evidence of the careful and conservative management of its business, is the fact that within the ten years since it was chartered,
it has placed to the credit of the surplus account the sum of $50,000, or an amount equal to its capital, and has paid dividends at
the rate of six per cent., since April 1, 1888. The average deposits are $225,000; the average loans are $265,000. This bank has
recently placed in its building one of the largest and best constructed safety vaults, with deposit boxes, in Western Pennsylvania.
It is not necessaryto say that the First National Bank embraces in its management and directorship some of the best and most
substantial citizens of Beaver Valley, that it is considered one of the finest banking houses in Western Pennsylvania. Its present
officials are: John M. Buchanan, president; Jefferson H. Wilson, vice-president; Edward J. Allison, cashier, and Robert F. Patterson,
teller. Its board of di-rectors are: John M. Buchanan, Jefferson H. Wilson, Alfred S. Moore, David A. Nelson, Alfred C. Hurst,
Samuel Moody, John I. Martin, John T. Taylor, and Joseph L. Holmes.
Edward James Allison, whose name heads this biography, was united in marriage with Margaret McGaughey, a daughter
of the late Rev. Alexander McGaughey, who during life was a much beloved pastor of Salem, Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Allison
have a hand-some modern residence on Beaver street, built in 1889. This home is rendered much happier by the presence of
two little sons and one daughter, whose names are as follows: Dwight M., born in February, 1891 ; Margaret M., born September 12, 1895;
and James, born September 11, 1898. Mr. Allison also owns considerable other valuable real-estate in Beaver. Like his honored ancestors,
he is a Republican in politics. He worships in the Presbyterian church, of which he is a member and a trustee. He has held minor
offices in the borough and takes a lively interest in the promotion and progress of Beaver. He is a gentleman with a wide range
of experience in the financial field, where he is an important factor, and his thoroughness and methodical
ways stand him in good stead. The subject of this biography is a member of the Masonic fraternity of high standing,
and easily ranks as one of the best citizens of Beaver county.
DR. GEORGE S. BOYD, a popular and successful physician of Beaver Falls, Pa., is one of the most prominent Homeopathic
practitioners in Beaver county. He has been practicing at his present location for nearly twenty years, and controls
a large business. Dr. Boyd has worked hard and earnestly for his success, and deserves the reputation and confidence
with which he has been rewarded.
Dr. Boyd was born at New Sheffield, Pa., on May 6, 185o. He received his primary mental training in both
public and select schools, afterwards taking a collegiate course at Curry Institute in Pittsburg. After receiving
special tuition in that school, he followed the profession of teaching for a period of nine years, chiefly in
Beaver county. He decided to fit himself for the medical profession, and with that object in view, he studied medicine
with his brother, John S. Boyd, after which he took the required course of lectures at the Cleveland Homeopathic Hospital College,
and graduated with the class of 188o. Dr. Boyd immediately established himself in Beaver Falls and has remained ever since,
even occupying the same office, refitted, however, from time to time, with the most mod-ern appliances used by the most
progressive medical men of to-day. His practice, small atfirst, has increased with each succeeding year until now the
Doctor has all he can attend to.
In 1881, Dr. Boyd was united in marriage with Emma J. Laird, an affable daughter of Alexander Laird of New Scottsville,
Pennsylvania. Dr. Boyd is an influential member of the State Medical Association, and also of the Homeopathic Medical Society
of Beaver county. He was one of the organizers of the Beaver Falls Board of Health in 1893, and has been president and secretary
of that organization. His interest in educational matters is not lacking, and is proved by his having served on the school board.
In politics, the subject of this sketch is a Republican, but his practice is not confined to his Republican friends and their families;
indeed, the Doctor never allows politics to interfere with his professional duties whatever. He is also a member of the
medical and surgical staff of the Beaver Valley General Hospital. Dr. Boyd is a son of Samuel and Martha (Maratta) Boyd,
and grandson of John Boyd.
John Boyd was a native of Ireland, coming to America and settling in Allegheny township, Allegheny county, Pa.,
where his son Samuel was born. Samuel Boyd was reared and educated in his native county, and learned the trade of a cabinet maker.
After living a number of years in Bridgewater borough, he removed to New Sheffield, Beaver county, where he followed farming in
connection with the undertaking business. His last years were spent in Beaver Falls, where he died, aged seventy-nine years.
His widow, the beloved mother of our subject, still survives her husband and resides in Beaver Falls. Mrs. Boyd was, before marriage,
Miss Martha Maratta. She was born in 182o in Hopewell township, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. The Doctor's brothers and sisters are
John S., of New Brighton; Sarah (Todd), of Washington, Iowa; and Frank, of Beaver Falls. The highly respected father was an earnest
Republican, and took a decided interest in the success of his party. He was honored by the confidence of the people, and served as
postmaster before and during the Civil War.
Dr. Boyd is, at this writing, a very active man. His constitution has been of that sort that has enabled him to go
through all kinds of weather to attend to his practice, without any bad effect upon himself. His affluent circumstances
are due to thrift and careful attention to his professional duties, and his standing in the community is certainly well merited.
LEWIS W. REED, the efficient and accommodating postmaster of Beaver, Pa., where he is also an active attorney,
is one of the most enthusiastic Democrats in the whole of Beaver county. Ever since arriving at maturity, he has
been particularly zealous in the interests of his favorite party, and has officiated as chairman of the Democratic
committee for several years, having long been a member of that organization and having served for seven years as
its secretary. Although he never sought office, he has been repeatedly offered political preferment. Mr. Reed was
born in Raccoon township, Beaver county, Pa., and after attending the public schools of New Sheffield, took an
academic course at Woodlawn Academy. He then became assistant editor of the "Beaver Star," and while engaged in that
capacity, also studied law under the preceptorship of Hon. J. M. Buchanan. He was admitted to the bar February 4, 1889,
and, opening an office in Beaver, he engaged in the practice of his profession for two years. At the close of that time,
he became associated with J. M. Buchanan and continued to be a law partner of that noted attorney for five years. On account
of failing health, Mr. Reed was obliged to discontinue his professional duties, having already had several hemorrhages.
Although reluctant to do so, he gave up his practice, intending to make his home in a warmer climate, but after a few months
of exercise in the open air, his health rapidly improved, and he was able to resume his work. His office is now located
in the Buchanan Block, at rooms 214 and 216.
Mr. Reed is secretary and a stockholder of the Star Publishing Co., a director of the Farmer's National Bank
of Beaver Falls, and has served as school director of the borough, for three years. He was appointed post-master of Beaver,
February 8, 1896, and immediately appointed Miss Lizzie J. Hepting, assistant,. and Miss Martha H. Morgan as clerk.
The office, which is also located in the Buchanan block, is a handsome one, and is fitted up in the most modern style.
The post-office of Beaver was established as early as 1802, and was called Beaver Town, until 1829, since which time
it has been known as Beaver postoffice. The first postmaster was James Alexander, who was appointed January 1, 1802;
he was succeeded by the following: Joseph Hemphill, July 1, 1803 ; James Alexander, August 9, 1804; James C. Weiser,
January 1, 1816; James Alexander, January 11, 1818; Andrew Logan, April 29, 1832; Charles Carter, May 28, 1838; James Lyon,
June 1, 1841; Miss E. D. Carter, December 27, 1855 ; Miss Margaret J. Anderson, July 23, 1861; Mrs. S. J. McGaffick,
November 1, 1866; Miss May McGaffick, January 23, 1867; Mrs. Sophia C. Hayes, February 12, 1868; Miss May McGaffick,
February 15, 1869; Miss N. B. Imbrie, March 19, 1875; Miss Mary E. Imbrie, January 29, 1883 ; Daniel M. Donehoo,
March 17, 1887; A. G. White, December 23, 1891 ; and Lewis W. Reed, February 8, 1896.
Lewis W. Reed was united in marriage with Lizzie Hall, a daughter of William B. Hall, a prominent farmer of
Raccoon township. William B. Hall was a descendant of Robert Hall, of English and Scotch descent. Robert Hall was born
in Lancaster county, Pa., and went to Beaver county, where he purchased four hundred acres of land, and engaged in
agricultural pursuits. His last days, however, were spent in Freedom. The worthy subject of this sketch and his amiable
wife find it a pleasant duty to rear and educate their family, which consists of one son and two daughters, as follows :
Lewis G., born January 10, 1883 ; Vera, born November 26,1887; and Helen, born June 29, 1891.
Mr. Reed built a fine modern residence, in 1890, on Beaver street, his present handsome home. In 1892,
he also built a residence for his beloved mother on Laura street, and in addition to these, he owns two attractive
tenement houses. He has always taken a lively interest in the development and progress of Beaver, and, like his forefathers,
is an active member of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Reed is also a valued member of the Masonic fraternity.
Thomas Reed, great-grandfather of the subject of this record, was a native of Scotland, whence he came to America,
settling near Baltimore, Maryland. He left two sons, one whose name was James and another whose name has not been preserved.
James Reed, grandfather of Lewis W., was born near Baltimore, Md., and in early manhood went to Beaver county, settling first
in Raccoon township, where he purchased a farm, in 1837. This farm is, today, owned by his son, John Reed. Upon this farm,
James Reed pursued the calling of an agriculturist until cut off by death at the age of sixty-seven years. He was joined in
marriage with Agnes Baker, a daughter of Michael Baker. Mrs. Reed lived to attain the age of sixty-nine years, and with
her husband, belonged to the Old School Presbyterian denomination. James Reed was known as a very progressive farmer,
and the old homestead, built by him in 1837, is still standing as a monument to his thrift and economy. To him and his
beloved companion were born the following children: Harriet, wife of Daniel Baker; Jane, wife of Cornelius Weigrandt;
Washington B., (father of Lewis W.), who will be mentioned later; John, who wedded Ruth Allen; Rosanna, wife of Robert Potter;
Elizabeth, wife of Dr. John Bryan; and Jesse, who wedded Martha Kennedy.
Washington Baker Reed, father of the subject of this biography, was born on the old homestead, January 14, 1820.
He received a good scholastic training, for those days, and -began life as a farmer. Upon the death of his father in 1868,
he bought out the other heirs of the homestead of two hundred acres. Later, he sold fifty acres, and had one hundred acres
under a state of high cultivation. He was a public-spirited man and a stanch Democrat,-serving in many township offices.
He was a trustee of the Presbyterian church, and was highly esteemed by all who knew him. He died July 20, 1890, aged sixty-five years.
He led Eliza Kerr to the altar, in 1851, and she bore him the following children : Lizzie, wife of Sheridan Knowles, of Beaver;
John A., who married Mary Deming, of Beaver; Lewis W., the subject of these lines; Cornelius W., who was united in marriage with
Ella Shoemaker, and resided at McKeesport; Sampson K., who wedded Sarah Baker, of Beaver; Harriet, wife of David G. Hood, of
McKeesport; " and Agnes, wife of Hugh Orr, of Beaver.
Sampson Kerr, the maternal grandfather of Lewis W., was born in Raccoon township, and was a son of John Kerr,
a surveyor by trade, who was granted a tract of land containing four hundred and four and two-thirds acres,-obtaining a
patent for the same. This tract bordered along the Ohio River in Raccoon township, Beaver county, Pa., and upon it John Kerr
settled prior to the year 'Soo. He built a house, where George Fox now lives, and here his two sons were born. Their names
were,-Sampson and James. In 1836, the homestead, containing two hundred and ninety-eight acres, was deeded to Sampson.
John Kerr, was one of the founders and elders of the Presbyterian church, which stood at the same place where Bethlehem Church is
now located. He was a justice of the peace for many years, the office at that time being a much more important one than at the
present day. After filling this station in a most acceptable and capable manner, he passed to his final rest at about the age of
eighty years. Sampson Kerr was looked upon as a well-to-do man, of his day. After selling the homestead, he went to Beaver,
and conducted a hotel on Third street for many years, where the Wade building now is. Later he kept the Keystone hotel of Pittsburg.
After retiring, he died in Allegheny City at the age of seventy-seven years. He was twice married. His first wife was Agnes Reed,
a daughter of John Reed, who was a settler adjacent to the Kerrs, where he owned four hundred acres of the finest land bordering
on the Ohio River. Their home was built on the rear end of the Samuel Clear farm. Mrs. Kerr died in 1842, at the age of thirty-four years,
leaving one daughter, Eliza, the mother of Lewis W., who was then twelve years old. Her father was married again,
his second wife being Maria Blackburn. Of this union were born the following seven children: Morris, Harriet, Frank,
James, Albert, Josephine, and William.
Sampson Kerr led an exemplary life, and was a leading figure in many avenues of business, where his cheery presence
is now missed. He belonged to the Old School Presbyterian denomination, and was a devout Christian man. The publishers of
this work take pleasure in announcing that a portrait of Mr. Reed accompanies this sketch, being presented on a preceding page.
EDGAR MYERS, an energetic and prominent young business man of Beaver county, has charge of the Singer sewing machine
business in this county, and makes his headquarters at Beaver Falls. He is a native of Forest county, Pa., and is a son of R. W. Myers.
R. W. Myers was born and educated at Youngstown, Ohio, and is a graduate from Raines Grammar School. At Franklin, Pa.,
he learned the trade of a jeweler, and after working in the bank of Wick Brothers a short time, he became associated with his
father-in-law, Willard Lindsey, in the wholesale and retail jewelry business. After being in the jewelry business several years,
he accepted a position with tin Singer Sewing Machine Company which he retained until recently, when he became traveling salesman
for the Consolidated Lamp and Glass Company. Mr. Myers introduced the Singer sewing machines in Beaver county and had his office
at 1017, Seventh avenue, Beaver Falls; he was among the first to locate in his present business vicinity, and added a jewelry
department to his establishment. He was joined in marriage with Miss Olive D. Lindsey, and their home has been blessed by the
birth of two children, namely: C. Edgar; and Mary S., born at Clear Lake, Wis., December 25, 1880. She was educated in Beaver Falls, Pa.,
and is now assisting our subject in the machine business. Politically, R. W. Myers is a strong Republican; socially, he is a
member of the K. of P., and a chartered member of the A. O. U. W. Religiously, he is a Presbyterian.
C. Edgar Myers was but a child when his parents moved to Beaver Falls, Pa., and his primary education was obtained in the
schools at that place. He also graduated from a business college, and then accepted a position as clerk in his father's office;
he was afterwards appointed collector of this county by the Singer Sewing Machine Company, a position he held but a short time
when he was transferred to the central office at Pittsburg. Two years later, he was promoted to the responsible position of
traveling auditor, and was said to be the youngest man who ever held that position. Mr. Myers, in the fall of 1898, re-signed
his position to accept the vacancy left by his father; he has handsome office rooms, located on Seventh avenue, and the great
success of the Singer Sewing Machine agency in this vicinity is due largely to his energetic efforts. Mr. Myers is a very
courteous and affable gentleman, and has won for himself the esteem and good-will of hosts of acquaintances throughout the
country. He is a well-read, popular and good business man. Religiously, he is a member of the Methodist church; politically,
he is a supporter of the Republican party. On June 28, 1899, Mr. Myers was united in marriage with Miss Blanche R. Shuster,
a daughter of Henry Shuster, of Beaver Falls.
EDWARD BEILMAN. Beaver county numbers among its citizens many men who started life under the most discouraging circumstances,
but who, through their own persevering industry, struggled on to better things and finally attained positions of prominence.
Such, briefly told, are the conditions which existed in the life of the gentleman above-mentioned, who is today
reckoned as the foremost business man of this section of the state,-being owner and proprietor of a large 'department store at
Beaver Falls. Twelve years was the age at which he set out to do, battle with the world at large, as cash boy in the large
department store then known as that of Barnes, Hengerer & Co., of Buffalo, New York. His action was contrary to the wish of his parents.
Ambitious by nature, bright of intellect, and situated as many another boy was, he won favor in the eyes of his employers, who were seemingly
cold and austere men of business. Having gained their good will by taking every opportunity to serve them as best he could,
he was from time to time advanced until he was their trusted head cashier at the age of twenty- four years,-a very young man
for a position of such responsibility. This was the only firm by whom he was ever employed, and in 1889, he severed his
connection with them and removed to Beaver Falls, Pa., where he has since been one of the most active and prosperous citizens.
F. Edward Beilman was born in Buffalo, Erie County, N. Y., June 21, 186o, and is a son of Jacob and Catherine (Speiser) Beilman.
Jacob, the father of our subject, was born in Bavaria, Germany, and came to this country with his parents at the age of seven years,
first settling in New York City. When the Erie Canal was opened, they traveled by that route to Buffalo, N. Y., which was then an
unimportant place. The union of Jacob Beilman with Catherine Speiser was blessed with eleven children, as follows : Anthony; Mary;
Josephine (Lechleiter); James; Adeline; Edward; Catherine; F. Edward; Helen (Schneider) ; Frank, and Elizabeth (Triller).
Anthony is a resident of Chicago. Mary, James, Adaline and Edward are deceased. Catherine married E. G. Burns, who is charity
agent in Buffalo, and about whom there is an interesting bit of history. He was one of seven pair of brothers who enlisted in
the Civil War, all being in the same company and the best of friends. Singular to re-late, one of each pair of brothers fell
in battle. F. Edward is the gentleman to whom this record pertains. Helen's husband has held a responsible position with
the water works for the past fifteen years. Frank is a civil engineer.
The subject of the present writing received his early mental instruction in the parochial schools of Buffalo, and,
in 1872 (as before stated), entered the employ of Barnes, Hengerer & Co. as cash boy, and, by native shrewdness and perseverance,
worked his way up to the place of office boy, and then to that of assistant cashier, which he held for six years. He had gained
the entire confidence of his employers and they offered him the position of head cashier. It was by no means a small undertaking
for one so young, but possessing unlimited confidence in his ability he accepted it and performed its duties with credit,--justifying
the faith reposed in him. Alive to the fact that his future depended upon himself, he saved his money and invested it in real estate
in Buffalo, which he subsequently sold at a good round profit. This he repeated several times and in a few years was the fortunate
possessor of a respectable bank account, and some very valuable realty. At this time he began to deal more extensively in lands,
forming companies, which bought up tracts and laid them out into building lots, which they put upon the market. In this manner he
was largely instrumental in building up the suburban districts of the city, and realized largely on his investments. That he is
shrewd and gifted beyond the ordinary, is evidenced by the fact that he has never lost on any of these transactions. He was
seemingly gifted with the Midastouch, and having once acquired property its value increased with wonderful rapidity. Upon one
occasion he bought a lot in one of the residence districts, and before eight o'clock the next morning, disposed of it at a profit
of $350. At another time he bought a tract of land in an obscure part of the town for $700, and shortly after sold it for $1,500.
Soon after the year 188o, his attention was attracted to the oil business, and journeying to McKean county, near Bradford,
he invested in oil to good advantage. He began to look for other investments, and in 1889 he resigned his position with Barnes,
Hengerer & Co., and, removing to Beaver Falls, formed a five years' partnership with William Rowan. starting a large dry goods business.
Disposing of his interest in this firm to his partner, in 1894, he built his present store, the largest and finest in the borough;
it is a two-story, iron-front building and covers a lot 100x40 feet in dimensions. It has steel, sixteen feet high ceilings. The large
assortment of stock is carefully systematized and arranged in orderly fashion. The basement is the salesroom for carpets, linoleum,
lace curtains, mattings and oil cloths, and also contains the carpet workshop. Upstairs is carried a comprehensive line of general dry goods,
notions, ladies' suits and cloaks, millinery, gentlemen's furnishings, and the thousand and one other things which go to make up a
department store. Mr. Beilman is a man who through his great enterprise has attracted public attention, and is universally held in high esteem.
He has identified himself with many paying ventures, being an organizer, the principal stockholder, and a director, of the
Keystone Store Service Company, manufacturers of a computing scale, an invention far superior to any other on the market.
This company have had considerable litigation with a Dayton concern, but have beaten them at every point. Mr. Beilman is a prominent
stockholder in the People's Water Company; a stockholder and director of the Riverview Electric Street Railway Company; and is a member
of the executive committee of the Beaver Falls Improvement Company, in which he has been an indefatigable worker. He was one of the most
faithful workers in securing $50,000 required, and was made a special representative, to bring the Eclipse Bicycle Company to Beaver Falls.
He is an earnest advocate for free bridges, a city charter and a "Greater Beaver Falls." Politically, he is independent and although
frequently importuned to accept office, he has always declined.
Mr. Beilman was united in marriage with Matilda M. Doll, who was born in Buffalo, N. Y., in May, 1865, the nuptials occurring
September 19, 1887; they have two children: Louise, born August 9, 1889, and Norman A., born in February, 1892. Mrs. Beilman was called
to her reward on February 20, 1892, just eight days subsequent to the birth of her second child, and was interred at Buffalo.
The subject of this biography formed a second union, with Margaret McDunn, who was born March 30, 1870, and is the daughter of
Patrick B. and Margaret McDunn of Cambria county, Pa., - their union beingblessed with three children: Homer J:, born in August, 1893,
and died in January, 1894; Melvin J., born December 25, 1895 ; and Martha, born April 1, 1897. In a religious connection Mr. Beilman
is a member of the Catholic church. He is also a member of the order of the R. A. For many years he was a member of the
Buffalo City Guard Cadet Corps, one of the crack organizations of Buffalo, from which came many brave officers of the late war.
Mr. Beilman's portrait, executed from a photograph, taken in the fall of 1899, is shown in connection with the above account
of his successful career.
DR. WALTER F. RAYLE, a leading dentist of Beaver Falls, Pa., where he is recognized as a man well versed in his profession,
is a scholarly, refined gentleman and has never been known to neglect his duty. It is characteristic of the man, that when
he takes up a project or advocates new procedures in his profession or in business, he throws his whole soul into the affair
in hand, and does all that can be done to bring matters to a successful conclusion. This very characteristic has won for
him a host of patients and loyal friends whom he serves faithfully. Dr. Rayle was born July 31, 1849, in South Beaver township,
Beaver county, Pennsylvania, is a son of John and Jane (Wells) Rayle and grandson of William Rayle.
Receiving quite an ordinary education in the common schools, he then took a most thorough course at the Worcester High School, in
Ohio. After choosing the profession of dentistry as his life work, he endeavored to fit himself by studying in the office of
Dr. Jones of Worcester, a leading practitioner in that profession.
Walter F. Rayle passed the examination, in 1867, successfully, and at once located in Darlington, where he established
an office and by his pleasant, courteous manner and good habits, won the respect of the people in general, who soon began to
need his professional services. Leaving quite a nice little practice in Darlington in 1870, Dr. Rayle removed to New Wilmington,
where he pursued the same calling for six years. In 1876, he located in Beaver Falls, where he is still to be found.
In his political views, he is a Republican, and steadfastly supports the measures and men of his party through victory or defeat.
Dr. Rayle is a member of the McKinley Pioneer Club of Beaver Falls, and is chairman of the executive committee. The Doctor is also
a school director, elected by the first ward, and has served in other local offices. He is responsive to charitable appeals,
and occupies an important position as a man of standing in the community. He has been a faithful member of the Presbyterian church
ever since he attained the age of eighteen years, and has led an industrious, useful and eminently successful life, unsullied by
deeds of wrong.
Dr. Rayle was joined in marriage with Josephine Murray, who has borne him three children, namely: Amy Pearl,
who is still at home; Bessie Jean, a teacher in the publicschool; and Charles Clifton. Bessie Jean graduated from the
high school with highest honors in a class of 16, and is also a graduate of Slippery Rock Normal School. The Doctor is
a prominent member of Walnut Camp No. 2, Woodmen of the World, and has been secretary of the camp for a period of seven years.
William Rayle, the paternal grandfather of our subject, was one of the pioneer settlers of Beaver county, where
he pursued the peaceful occupation of a farmer all his active days. He was an old line Whig and served one term as county
commissioner; in fact he was filling that office at the time of his death, which occurred at the age of fifty-four years.
John Rayle, the father of Walter F., was born in Beaver county, Pa., December 3, 1805. He spent his entire life as
a resident of the same county, and died July 13, 1882. He was also a farmer by occupation and, in conjunction, conducted a
blacksmith shop on his farm. In a religious connection he was identified with the Free Presbyterian denomination at Darlington,
of which church he was an elder. He chose for his life partner Jane Wells, a daughter of Joseph Wells. She bore her husband
seven children, viz: Jane Belinda, widow of John Kerr; Ann Matilda, wife of Josiah Long, who resides on College Hill, where
Mr. Long carries on farming; William D., who lives in Columbiana county, Ohio, where he is known as a progressive farmer;
Joseph Wells, who lives at Canal Fulton, Stark county, Ohio, and is engaged in mercantile pursuits; John B., who is also a merchant
at Beaver Falls; Susanna B., wife of John Barclay, of Alliance, Ohio, also a merchant ; and Walter F., the subject of this sketch.
The maternal grandfather of our subject, Joseph Wells, was an old settler of Beaver county, and owned a large farm,
which included nearly all of the land now occupied by Patterson Heights. In connection with his agricultural pursuits,
Mr. Wells conducted a hotel, and was an enterprising, public-spirited citizen.
JAMES TAYLOR, a mechanical genius, who has brought himself into wide prominence in the western section of Pennsylvania,
is well-known as the superintendent of the establishment of Emerson, Smith & Co., of Beaver Falls, Beaver county, Pennsylvania.
He was born in Fallston, September 9, 1851, and is a son of Samuel and Nancy (James) Taylor, and grandson of James Taylor.
James Taylor, the grandfather, was born in Sheffield, England, in 1785, and received his mental training in the
public schools, after which he engaged in coal mining for some time. Upon coming to America, he bought a large tract of
land in an unimproved condition in Galesburg, Illinois, and to this he added until he had acquired some 370 acres.
He began the improvement of his tract, erected good, substantial buildings, and lived there until his demise in 1858,
aged seventy-three years. Hereared seven children, as follows: Joseph, who never came to this country; Samuel,
the father of the subject of this personal history; Thomas, a successful coal operator in Washington county, Pa.,
who is also interested in silver mining; Sarah (Bailey); Martha, deceased; Jonathan, also a coal operator; and John,
who now resides upon the old homestead at Galesburg, Illinois. Politically, he was a staunch Democrat.
Religiously, he was an Episcopalian.
Samuel Taylor was born in Sheffield, England, July 4, 1821, where he was sent to the public schools,
in addition to which he took a special course in geometry and freehand drawing, becoming an expert designer and pattern maker.
He came to this country with his parents, and in 1842 accepted a position as cabinet maker with the Kennedy Keg Factory,
designing and making patterns for all of the machinery used in the factory. He then engaged in pattern making in Pittsburg
and New Brighton. He afterwards became superintendent for Minor & Merrick, New Brighton. He acquired wonderful skill and was
unexcelled at his profession, some of the patterns which he made being still in existence. He was connected with the
Kennedy Keg Factory many years, but held interests in other firms, and in the latter part of his life was engaged in business
for himself at Fallston. He formed a matrimonial alliance with Nancy James, a daughter of Benjamin and Margery (Williams)
James, coming of sturdy Quaker stock. Benjamin James served in the War of 1812 with General Jackson, being under him at
the Battle of New Orleans. He was a farmer in early life, but later undertook mercantile pursuits, having a store at what
is now Hoytdale, Beaver county. He married Margery Williams, whose father, Thomas Williams, was one of the very first
white men to settle in Beaver county, locating there in 1793. Besides farming he did a large distilling business.
This union resulted in seven children: Sarah A. (Craven) ; Joseph J., now in Spokane, Wash. ; Nancy, the mother of
James Taylor; Howard; Benjamin; Amelia (Murray); and Eliza. Nancy James was a pupil in the district schools, and
lived at home until her marriage. Samuel Taylor and his wife were the parents of the following: Joseph, who was first
a pattern maker, then a millwright, and is now a farmer in Beaver county; Elizabeth (Brad-ley) ; James, the subject hereof ;
Franklin, who died at the age of three years; John F., a machinist who is assistant to his brother James; Jason R.,
station agent on the P. & L. E. R. R. at Beaver, Pa.; Thomas \V., who died at the age of three years; and Orrin P.,
a pattern maker, who died at the age of twenty-three years. Mr. Taylor was an active Democrat in politics and filled most
of the borough offices, having been burgess, justice of the peace, a member of the town council and president of the school board.
Religiously, he was an Episcopalian. He died in 1892, at the age of seventy-one years, and his wife still survives him at the
age of seventy-four years.
James Taylor attended the public schools ofFallston and New Brighton, after which he learned the trade of a
keg maker with M. T. & C. Kennedy, with whom he remained until 187o, when he learned the trade of a machinist, for
which he showed great aptitude. He worked for M. & S. H. Darrah for four years and two months, three years of this period
as an apprentice, and the remainder of the time as a journeyman. Upon being offered a position with Emerson, Ford & Company
as _a journeyman, he accepted and continued for a few months, when he went to New Castle, Pa., to work on large blast-furnace engines.
After being thus engaged for three months, he returned to Fallston and worked for Darrah & Company for some years. In January, 1876,
he re-entered the employ of Emerson, Ford & Company. That firm dissolved partnership and Mr. Taylor became a dye maker, and was so
employed until February of the following year. Then the firm for which he had previously worked was re-organized under the name
of Emerson, Smith & Co., and as he was at the time possessed of many years' experience and a wide reputation, he was offered the
place of master mechanic and given charge of eighty-five men. He has since been promoted to the office of superintendent,
a position he still fills with credit to himself and satisfaction to his employers. This firm was the first to manufacture band-saws
in this country, and in addition to this they make cross-cut saws, shingle-saws, metal and stone saws, gang-saws, a specialty of
the inserted tooth-saw, knives and other edge tools, odd shape mold cutters, and other experimental work. Besides being an
exceptional mechanic, Mr. Taylor is an inventor of no mean ability and numerous labor and expense saving devices now used by
saw manufacturers throughout the country are products of his skill. The plant under his superintendence covers an entire square,
is two stories high, and in addition has its offices and engine room. The firm employ 125 men, and although they are under the
constant supervision of Mr. Taylor, he still finds time to do a little of the mechanical work himself. He has been awarded several
valuable patents, one of the most important being a saw sharpener and setter which will be invaluable to any firm using saws.
He is engaged on several other inventions which he expects to have patented. Mr. Taylor has been decidedly successful in life in
a business way, and is one of the most substantial citizens of the borough. He owns some real estate on Seventh avenue, in Beaver Falls.
On December 10, 1878, he was joined in wedlock with Maud Kerr, a daughter of Mathew Kerr. She was born in Ireland, being of
Scotch-Irish extraction, and received her mental training in the public schools of her native place, and at Butcher's Business College
in Beaver Falls, having come to America in 1871. This union resulted in the birth of the following children : Roy; James, who is a
sophomore in the High School, took first honors in his class during the year 1899, is a debater of ability, giving promise of future
brilliancy, and is preparinghimself for admittance to the, bar; Stanley B.; and Olive E. In politics, Mr. Taylor is a firm supporter
of the principles of Democracy, and for years served on the county committee. Religiously, he is a member of the Presbyterian church.
Socially, he is a member of the Royal Arcanum.
WILLIAM A. P. GRAHAM, secretary and treasurer of the American Porcelain Co. of New Brighton, Pa., is one of the leading
and most enterprising citizens of that town. The American Porcelain Company, of which he is a member, was incorporated
November 24, 1894, by Thomas Craven and Thomas R. Marshall. They purchased the Scott Brothers' Tile Factory, which was
located near Allegheny street, and remodeled it for the manufacturing of solid porcelain ware of all kinds, for kitchens
and pantries, tubs, sinks, and all porcelain articles. They have built up a reputation for fine quality of, work, and have
many orders for specialties in porcelain ware. They have four kilns, two of which are 12 feet in diameter, and two, 18 feet
in diameter, having a capacity to manufacture the largest tanks and tubs, of natural clay, in western Pennsylvania. The plant
covers nearly three acres of ground, which includes kilns, engine house, storage and warehouse, and shipping house.
They employ thirty men, most of whom are skilled mechanics. The porcelain enamel, which was Mr. Craven's own conception, i
s the best on market to-day. William A. P. Graham, the subject of this biography, was born in Allegheny City, Pa., January 29, 186o,
is a son of Nathan, and grandson of Charles, Graham, who was of Scotch-Irish ancestry. Nathan Graham was born in
Chambersburg, Franklin county, Pa., and early in life learned the trade of coach building. In 1845 he moved to Allegheny City,
where he became connected with the firm of Park & Phelps, wagon and coach manufacturers. He remained with that firm until 1872,
when he retired. He was elected alderman and justice of the peace of the second ward of Allegheny, and later was notary public.
He dealt quite extensively in real estate during his active life, but retired from business a few years before his death,
which occurred in 1897, at the age of seventy-seven years. He married Elizabeth Doubler, a native of Chambersburg, Pa.,
and she died in 1895, at the age of seventy-five years. The children which resulted from this union were: Emma, who married
Matthew Eyster; Amelia, who married William Duval; Mary L., who married A. B. Hay; Ida, who married Thomas E. Marshall,
and has one child, Etta; Etta H., deceased, who was the wife of William Righter; and William A. P., the subject of this sketch.
Thomas E. Marshall, who is president of the American Porcelain Co. is very popular, and a thorough business man. He was for
several years the leading merchant of New Brighton, but in February, 1898, his store, which was located in the Opera House Block,
burned, and since that time he has devoted his entireattention to the American Porcelain Company. Nathan Graham was a Republican,
and a member of the Lutheran church.
William A. P. Graham attended the high school of Allegheny City, and then pursued the study of photography for three years,
but as his eyes failed him, he was obliged to abandon it. He accepted the clerkship at Raymond Bros.' wholesale house in Allegheny,
and remained with them until 1889, when he went to New Brighton, and became clerk and bookkeeper for the Pittsburg Clay Manufacturing Company.
When the American Porcelain Co. was incorporated, he became one of the stockholders, as well as secretary and treasurer.
He married Lillie M. Farmer, a daughter of Thomas Farmer.
Thomas Farmer was born in Birmingham, England, a son of William Farmer, who was, a skilled mechanic in wire drawing,
especially in silver and gold metal. His services were sought by New England manufacturers, and he came to this country, but
soon went back to England. There for many years he manufactured iron screws for wood work. Later in life, after retiring, he
came to America in 1857, and died at his son's home in Wheeling, West Virginia, at the age of ninety years. He was married twice,
first to Miss Coleman, who died early in life. Their children were as follows: Ann; Edward; William; Mary A.; and Thomas.
His second marriage was with Ann Platt, and she bore him three children, namely: John P.; David J.; and Samuel.
Thomas Farmer early in life became a portrait painter, and came to America in 1855, locating in Pittsburg. His brother came to this
country in 1857, and Thomas gave up painting, and went into business with his brother, John P., at Philadelphia. They manufactured
carriage bolts, and after a few years moved to Newark, N. J., and later, to Wheeling, West Va. After selling out there,
they moved to Canton, Ohio, and two years later, located at New Brighton, Pa., where they carried on a general machine shop
for a few years. They then beg-an the manufacture of rivets at Penyan, New York. Here Mr. Farmer retired from business and
moved once more to New Brighton, Pa., where he still resides. He married Jane Chivers, a (laughter of Joshua Chivers,
and their children are as follows : Agnes; Howard; Ella; and Lillie, the wife of the subject of this sketch.
Mr. and Mrs. Graham have one child, William A. Mr. Graham is a firm Republican, and is a member of the Royal Arcanum and
of the Woodmen of the World; he belongs to the Episcopal church. He is highly respected in the community, and is always willing
to give aid to anything which is for the good of the people of his town.
HENRY ENGLEHART COOK, the superintendent and general manager of the Beaver Valley Electric Light & Power Co.,
of Beaver Falls, Pa., a highly esteemed citizen and ex-sheriff of Beaver county, was born in Bridgewater, Pa.,
July 31, 1843, and is a son of Henry and Margaret (Reiter) Cook.
Henry Cook was born in Weingarten, Germany, January 15, 1807. He was joined in marriage, in March, 1831,
with Margaret Reiter, who was also born at the same place. Mrs. Cook is a daughter of Ferdinand and Margaret (Hurst) Reiter,
and is still living at Beaver, Pa., enjoying the best of health. Much, valuable information, data, etc., for this sketch were
generously and cheerfully furnished by her, and were obtained from a Bible she carried to school when a child, being inscribed
on the pages reserved for family records, in a well written German hand. She was born August 13, 1810.
Henry Cook had a brother in Johnstown, Pa., who persuaded him to come to America. With his wife and three eldest sons,
he started from the old country in June, 1838, taking passage on a sailing vessel ; meeting with much bad weather, they did not
arrive at New York until the following September. After landing, they proceeded by wagon and stage to Philadelphia, Pa., thence
by canal to Harrisburg and Johnstown. Arriving there, they learned of a great boom in the Beaver Valley, where a canal was in
operation and villages were built. They left Johnstown for Pittsburg, and traveled in wagons to Monaca, Beaver county, which was
then called Phillipsburg. At that place, Mr. Cook followed the trade of a stone mason for some time, removing later to Bridgewater,
and still later settling in Beaver, Pa., where he built a fine residence on Fourth street, now owned by his widow. While working
upon this residence, he was taken ill with cholera, caused by drinking cold water, while overheated from work. This illness
terminated in death July 14, 1845. He was a man who possessed a strong constitution and was unfortunately cut off in the very
prime of life, and did not live to enjoy what he had planned, a haven of earthly rest.
Mr. Cook built much of the masonry of his day, in and around Beaver. He also built the reservoir now standing back of
Henry E. Cook's residence. He was born and christened with the name of Koch, as the family formerly spelled their name.
Upon getting his naturalization papers made out, he was asked his name, and omitted to tell the authorities how it should
he spelled. Upon the completion of the papers, he accepted them, supposing them to be correct. Later, upon discovering the
mistake, he thought it would make no material difference and did not have them changed; this course he afterward regretted
very much as, by voting under the name of Cook, he soon became known by that name, until the family finally adopted that
method of spelling it. He built his home on Fourth street in 1844, and there his death occurred. His good wife was left to rear
and educate the family, which she did as few mothers have done,-devoting her whole life to that task. She is now esteemed by all
and revered by her children, whose names are as follows : Jacob Frederick, born in Germany, January 19, 1832, died February 14, 1847,
and lies buried in the Lutheran burial ground of Pittsburg; John Francis,, who was horn in Germany, February 23, 1834,
and died October 18, 1855; Christian Frederick, who was born in Germany, January 10, 1838, and was killed May 12, 1864,
in the battle of the Wilderness, being a member of Company F, 140th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf. ; Christine Louise, born August TO, 1841,
who became the wife of D. M. Miller of Beaver, and is the mother of five children ; and Henry Englehart, the subject of these lines.
Henry Englehart Cook attended the public schools, and with a careful mother's training grew to be a boy who was respected and
trusted by all who knew him. At the age of thirteen years (in 1856), he was appointed under James Buchanan, to carry mail on horseback
from Beaver to New Lisbon, Ohio; this duty occupied two clays every week, in all kinds of weather, and involved a trip of 28 miles.
In addition to this, he carried the mail, four days each week, from Beaver to Rochester, Pennsylvania. In accomplishing this task he
never failed, and his reliability and punctual habits won him a reputation which determined his future. At the age of eighteen years,
he enlisted in the Union Army, October 9, 1861, on the first call for volunteers. He was a private in Company F, 101st Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf.,
and served three years. In the battle of Plymouth, N. C., he was taken prisoner and confined in the Andersonville prison, in Georgia,
being removed thence to Charleston, and then to Florence, S. C., where he was exchanged December 13, 1864. Returning to parole camp
at Annapolis, Md., he was granted a thirty days' furlough on account of his poor health, and went home to recuperate, and relieve an
anxious mother's fears. He went back to his regiment and received an honorable discharge March 18, 1865, although his papers
bore date of December, 1864.
On the termination of the war, Mr. Cook returned to his home, and, after following the carpenter trade for a short time,
he became interested in the lightning-rod business. Subsequently he was elected constable of Beaver, serving three consecutive years,
until 1881, when he was elected sheriff by the Democratic party by over two hundred majority. He served three years as sheriff,
during which the great riot at Beaver Falls took place, in which some twenty rioters were placed in his custody, four of whom were
convicted,-sentence being suspended. At the close of his term, Mr. Cook was appointed deputy revenue collector of the twenty-third
district of Pennsylvania, serving four years and three months. He then became superintendent and manager of the
Beaver Valley Electric Light & Power Co., of Beaver Falls, which position he is still filling in an eminently satisfactory manner.
In 1873, he purchased about one acre of land on Fifth street, and built a fine residence thereon, grading the lawns surrounding it,
and setting out an abundance of small fruit and shade trees. In addition to this he rebuilt his mother's residence, adding another
story; he also owns a fine tenement house on Fourth street, built by his uncle, Jacob, in 1844. His possessions include a number of
choice building lots, he having purchased, in 1890, a tract of land 120 by 300 feet. This tract is known as the Mark estate,
and is situated on Beaver street. Mr. Cook divided a portion of it into five fine lots, one of which he sold to each of the
following persons: E. J. Allison, James Reed, Lewis Reed, and the purchaser of the premises where J. I. Martin now lives.
These are among the best residents of Beaver.
The subject of this writing has been twice married. His first wife was Sarah K. Sheldrake, a daughter of Joshua and
Elizabeth (Shoemaker) Sheldrake. She was born in 1845, and passed to her final rest, leaving five children, namely: Frederick H.,
a contractor and carpenter of Beaver; Carrie Louise, still unmarried; Charles O., an electrician of Beaver Falls, who married Ollie Miller,
and had two children, Lloyd and Henry; Henry W., a carpenter; and Mary E., also enjoying single blessedness.
Mr. Cook contracted a second matrimonial alliance, this time with Mary E. Matheny, a daughter of John and Caroline (Shoemaker) Matheny.
No issue resulted from this union. The family worship with the Presbyterians, and contribute liberally toward the support of that denomination.
Mr. Cook's portrait accompanies this sketch.
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Transcribed by Kate Michaelson