Beaver County Genealogy Trails Joseph W. KNOTT
Biographies
JOSEPH W. KNOTT, the secretary and treasurer of the firm of Knott, Harker & Co., of Beaver Falls, Pa.,
has lived a varied, and useful life, every act of which has been marked by some innate honesty of purpose,
and by such strict adherence to the highest principles of probity, that his name is honored and his influence
is felt throughout his chosen community. Mr. Knott has occupied his present responsible position ever since the
organization of the firm of Knott, Harker & Co., in 1884. The company was formed for the purpose of manufacturing
fireplace grates, and hardware novelties, but quite recently, extensions have been made, machine shops added, etc.,
and castings of all descriptions are now manufactured. When the plant is running full time, about 6o men are employed.
Mr. Knott is also a director in the First National Bank of Beaver Falls and takes a fitting and appropriate
interest in the progress of the town, being classed among its most progressive citizens. The subject of our sketch
was born near Manchester, England, April 4, 1844, and is a son of Moses and Ann (Whitworth) Knott. His parents came
to America in 1849, when he was only five years old. They crossed the Alleghany Mountains by way of the Ohio Canal
and the Pittsburg R. R. going first to Lawrence county, and later to Beaver county. His father had learned the trade
of a cotton spinner while living in England, and followed that business in this country for many years. In 1853, he
located in Fallston, Pa., where he secured a situation in a cotton mill, but subsequently went to the town of Brighton,
now Beaver Falls. Some time after locating at the latter place, he embarked in the grocery business, keeping a little store
stocked with staple groceries; and at same time holding the position of postmaster of Brighton. The office was discontinued
while he was in charge, under Buchanan's administration, and the place was without a postoffice until about the year 1865,
when the town took new life under the name of Beaver Falls.
Moses Knott was a man of quiet, unassuming manner and gentle disposition. He was for many years a member of
the Methodist church. His death occurred in August, 1894, at the age of eighty-five years. His sterling qualities secured
for him the esteem and love of a large circle of friends, and made his name honored throughout his locality.
Joseph W. Knott was primarily educated in the public schools of New Brighton. After leaving school, he accepted
a position in a dry goods store at that place, where he remained from 1865 to 1870. In 1870 he held a position with an
iron firm in Sharpsville, Mercer county, after which he was employed as bookkeeper and cashier for the Beaver Falls Cutlery
Works until 1884. covering a period of fourteen years. In 1884, he became a member of the firm of Knott, Harker & Co.,
and was chosen secretary and treasurer of the same,-his present position,-which he has filled in a highly creditable manner,
satisfactory to all concerned.
The subject of our sketch chose for his wife and life partner, Martha Brierly. Mr. and Mrs. Knott have only one
child now living, and that is Lois, who is a prominent teacher in the schools of the state of New York, and of whom they
are exceedingly proud. Mr. Knott is a gentleman who has traveled life's road, attending strictly to the matters which
have confronted him along his path. His experience is filled with a record of labors well done. Wherever his duties have
led him, all branches of service have received his attention, and he has tried to discharge all the obligations of his
citizenship with a fidelity which has borne to him the merited good will of his fellow men.
DR. ORRIN H. FRANKLIN, whose portrait is presented on the opposite page, is a leading and successful dentist of Beaver Falls, where he has been engaged in the practice of his profession for many years; he is a practical man and has a shrewd eye for improvements and new adaptations in his profession. Almost his entire time not devoted to practice, is spent in study, and his friends and admirers are satisfied that he will yet win a name that will rank high in the world of science; even the few that are slow to take up with any new thing, no matter how meritorious, concede that his success is something wonderful. Dr. Franklin is a son of Benjamin and Martha (Reed) Franklin, and was born in Industry township, Beaver county, Pa., February 3, 1859. He received a good common school training; after leaving school he learned the trade of a cooper and keg maker, commencing at about the age of fifteen years, with the firm of M. T. & U. S. Kennedy.
Young Franklin was quick and handy with tools, having much natural ability in that direction, and soon became an expert kegmaker; he worked at that trade for four or five years, receiving at first but 30 cents per day. It was his ambition to fit himself for something better, and to this end he applied himself with an ardor that has been followed by very successful results. By strict attention to business and by economy, he saved enough money while in the cooper business to carry him through college. After studying for two years with Dr. A. M. Whisler, of New Brighton, one of the oldest practitioners of the county, he entered the Pennsylvania Dental College of Philadelphia, completing the course February 25, 1882. Immediately after his graduation, Dr. Franklin located in New Brighton and practiced dentistry there for four years, securing a liberal patronage. In the meantime, Dr. Franklin had opened up a branch office at Beaver Falls, where he also practiced dentistry a part of his time. At the end of his fourth year he had opportunity to sell the business at New Brighton for a satisfactory consideration, and was induced to dispose of his interests at that place and devote his whole attention and time to the practice of his profession in Beaver Falls, which, by that time, had increased to extensive proportions.
Dr. Franklin is a conscientious gentleman and is very highly regarded wherever he is known. His professional ability is recognized and the high position he occupies in the estimation of the citizens of Beaver Falls is well merited. He is a member of the Odontological Society of Pittsburg.
Dr. Franklin was married to Lucy Thorney, an accomplished lady, September 30, 1885. One son, Benjamin, resulted from this union.
Benjamin Franklin, father of the subject of these lines, was a native of the state of New York, and was reared and educated in Ohio, whither he had been taken. He subsequently located in Beaver county, Pa., and adopted the profession of teaching, to which he has devoted his energies since that time; he now has the distinction of being the oldest teacher in Beaver county. He is spending his declining years at New Brighton, in charge of a school. He ranks high among the ablest instructors in Western Pennsylvania and has served two terms of three years each, as superintendent of schools of Beaver county. He has always taken a leading part in the educational development of the county, being an advocate of good schools and competent teachers as the best means of suppressing lawlessness, and making honorable citizens, and true men and women. He and his good wife were blessed with two children, the elder of whom is the subject of this biography, and the younger, Milan O., resides with his father, in New Brighton, and occupies a position in the Union Drawn Steel Works.
THOMAS L. MINESINGER is a prominent and well-to-do resident of Beaver Pa., and is one of the successful oil producers of the county. He is a native of Ohio township, Beaver county, Pa., his birth occurring April 12, 1844; he is a son of Godfrey and Sarah (Laughlin) Minesinger, and grandson of Jacob Minesinger.
Jacob Minesinger was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, though his parents were originally from Italy. Jacob learned the stone-mason trade in his native country, and in 1798 came to the United States; he bought four hundred acres of timber land in Green township, Beaver county, which is now the home of Mr. Robert Sweney. He made many improvements upon the farm, besides clearing a large portion of it, he and his sons built a large stone house. Jacob and his wife Catherine were buried in the family ground on the homestead farm. He and his family were members and regular attendants of the Presbyterian church. His children were: David; Jacob; James; John; Joseph; Godfrey; and Elsie.
Godfrey Minesinger was born on his father's farm and his boyhood days were spent in learning the masonry trade and aiding his father in cultivating the farm; he bought one hundred and fifty-five acres of new land, upon which he built a fine set of buildings; as his boys grew up they operated the farm while he worked at his trade as a mason. He built the stone abutment for the suspension bridge at Wheeling, West Virginia, and contracted for railroad masonry for many years. His farm is now the property of Charles Brooker. He owned a considerable amount of other property in this county, including the George Brown estate. He died in the latter part of 1874, aged sixty-eight years. His wife was Sarah Laughlin, a daughter of Thomas
Laughlin; she was born in 1800 and died in 1886; their children were three: John and Joseph, deceased; and Thomas L., the subject hereof. Mr. Minesinger was well-read, intelligent, and public-spirited; he was a man who delighted in debates and for the sake of an argument he would often support the side of a question contrary to that which he really believed; being a man of superior judgment, he was often called upon for advice in various business transactions. He was a consistent Presbyterian.
Thomas L. Minesinger attended the district school and assisted his father during his youthful days; and at seventeen years of age he was apprenticed to the blacksmith trade; after three years of that labor he sought the river life and in 1862 he started as striker's engineer on the Ohio River, but the last four years of his river life were spent as engineer. Returning home, with his brother John he followed farming five years, when he accepted a position as station agent at Smith's Ferry; he afterwards spent twelve years as a merchant, and was also postmaster of the village. Selling out to S. J. Fair in 1894, he settled in Beaver and became associated with S. P. & D. H. Stone, also of Beaver, in the production of oil,-working in Ohio township and other places in the county. Mr. Minesinger owns a neat residence on the corner of Bank and Commercial avenues, which he makes his home.
The subject of this sketch was first united in marriage with Narcisse B. Smith, a daughter of Jesse Smith of Smith's Ferry; she diedaged thirty years; three children were born to their union: John L., a graduate from West-ern Pennsylvania Medical College of Pittsburg, now practicing at Bellaire, Ohio; Jesse, deceased; and Eddie S., who is now in his second year in the above named medical school. Mr. Minesinger's second wife is Mary Ecoff, a daughter of J. Ralph Ecoff of Rochester, Pa., and they have one child, Thomas L., who is now attending school in Beaver. Mr. Minesinger is a Republican in politics; socially, for the past twenty years he has been a member of the Glasgow Lodge, No. 485, F. & A. M., of which he has also been past master; and of the I. O. O. F. In religious views, he is a prominent member, and a trustee, of the Presbyterian church of Bridgewater.
EDWARD L. DAWES, whose pronounced success as a member of the firm of Dawes & Myler has brought him into wide prominence, is a man gifted with extraordinary ability. He is a young man in the prime of life, but in all his transactions, he has displayed shrewdness and foresight far beyond his years. He is a son of John L. and Charlotta Jemima (League) Dawes, grandson of Jonathan Dawes, and was born in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania.
His father, John L. Dawes, was born in Nottingham, England, and came to America a single man. He followed the trade of a painter in Trenton, N. J., and afterward in Pittsburg and Allegheny City. In the last named city he was engaged in contracting for painting and continued thus until he began the manufacture of glass in the line of drug supplies and sundries. He conducted a wholesale house in that line until his demise at the age of sixty-one years. He was united in marriage with Charlotta Jemima League, who was born in Virginia but is now living hi Allegheny, and their union resulted in the following offspring: Harriet; Mary; Martha, deceased; Edward L., the subject of this biographical record; and John L.
Edward L. Dawes was reared and educated in Allegheny City, and at the age of thirteen years entered into active employment as truing boy for his father. Upon reaching man's estate he became a partner in his father's business, continuing as such with good results until he was twenty-seven years of age. He then became bookkeeper of the Standard Manufacturing Co. of Pittsburg, and ten months later was chosen as manager of that concern, remaining in that capacity until 1888. Having gained largely in practical business experience, he was qualified to enter into business on his own behalf, and in that year he removed to New Brighton and formed a partnership with W. Albert Myler, under the firm name of Dawes & Myler. This firm is now proprietor of one of the largest establishments in this section of the state.
Messrs. Dawes and Myler, both men in the prime of life and possessed of considerable experience, looted at New Brighton, Beaver county, in 1887, and purchased four acres of land at Allegheny street and Block House Run, on which they built a brick plant and engaged in the manufacture of porcelain lined bath-tubs and sanitary specialties, and also of plumbers' supplies. They employed about eighty men of experience during the first year, and in March, 1889, placed their product on the market. Being of a superior quality, no difficulty was experienced in selling all that could be produced, and in time it was seen that the plant must be enlarged to meet the requirements of the demand. In 1892, an additional three acres of land was purchased, and now six acres are covered with buildings, all of which are of brick but the foundry, which is a substantial frame building. It is heated by hot air and lighted by electricity from their own plant. The works are run by steam and are in operation day and night, as many as 425 men being employed daily, and the pay roll per day being not less than $I,000. It is a fact worthy of mention that ever since the firm was first organized the plant has been in full operation and has not missed a single pay day. It can readily be seen that in addition to bringing industrious men and establishing new homes in the town, the large amount of money put in circulation by the employees has resulted in material benefit to the borough of New Brighton. The goods of their manufacture have a wide reputation and are sold in the markets of all the countries of Europe, in Australia, Japan, Cuba, and the Hawaiian Islands, as well as in every state in the Union.
Mr. Dawes bought a desirable lot, a part of the Bradford estate, in New Brighton, and in 1887, erected an elegant modern brick home at No. 1332 Third avenue, which is complete in every detail and convenience. He was joined in hymeneal bonds with Katherine Torrance, a daughter of Francis Torrance, of Allegheny City, and she died young, leaving two children: Frances L.; and Martha, deceased. Mr. Dawes formed a second alliance with Jean Waddell, a daughter of Thomas Waddell, of Jacksonville, Illinois. In religious belief he is a conscientious member of the Presbyterian church. He takes a deep interest in the affairs of New Brighton and has been identified with a number of worthy enterprises, being at the present time a director of a bank, and vice-president and director of the Beaver Valley Hospital. He is a man of pleasing personality and possesses a large circle of friends throughout the community.
WENZEL A. MIKSCH, a member of the, American Glass Specialty Company, and a prominent citizen of Monaca, Beaver county, Pa., is a glass decorator of wide reputation, and has in recent years invented a new process which promises in time to revolutionize the art of glass decorating.
Mr. Miksch is a native of Bohemia, and received a good mental training in the public schools 0f that country. That being the greatest glass manufacturing center of Europe, he adopted the trade of a glass worker, and learned every detail of the business in the most thorough manner. At the age of twenty-one years, he came to America, in 1881, stopping first at East Liverpool, Ohio, for two months, and then removing to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. After remaining there for a period of eight months, he located at Monaca, and followed his trade there for three years. In 1885, he returned to Pittsburg, and for thirteen years was foreman of the Thomas Evans Company, in the glass decorating department. In the meantime, in 1889, he purchased ten acres of land in Monaca, Beaver county, and erected what is probably the finest house in that section, reflecting great credit upon his good judgment and artistic taste. Since that time he has made his home there, although for some years his work was in Pittsburg. It was while working on paper weights that he made a remarkable discovery, and for a considerable period was en-gaged in developing it. In 1897, having perfected his invention for the decoration of glassware, he became one of the organizers of the Metropolitan Glass Company of Monaca, manufacturers of advertising specialties-a concern with which he was connected until 1898. He then severed his connection with that firm and started his present venture, the American Glass Specialty Company, in partnership with his brother, Charles Miksch. It is a novel invention, and marks a decided advance in the art of decorating glass. As yet the invention is but two years old, and is meeting with great success. There are but two firms of this character in this country and our subject has the proud distinction of having started both. The building he now occupies was completed in 1898; it is a two-story affair, 26x90 feet, and embraces the main works, the furnace room, printing room, transfer room, and enamel room. The articles which they make require most painstaking effort, and Mr. Miksch has attained a skill which approaches perfection. They have two kilns operated by natural gas, and a small test oven. Their goods find a ready market all over the world, and bid fair to supersede the old style of glass decorating. They have no trouble in disposing of their product, and have sales agents in all the large cities. Mr. Miksch is possessed of excellent business qualifications and has been very successful, owning his present location, the building occupied by the Metropolitan Glass Company, and the house in which he lives.
Politically, the subject of this writing is an aggressive Democrat, and has been president of the council for the past six years, but has now retired from active politics. He is a member of Germania Blue Lodge, No. 509, and Duquesne Chapter, F. & A. M., both of Pittsburg. A portrait of Mr. Miksch accompanies this sketch of his life, being presented on a preceding page.
WILLIAM R. GALEY, of the firm of Galey Brothers, extensive oil producers, is a highly respected citizen of Beaver, Pa., and is well and favorably known throughout Beaver county. He was born in Porter township, Clarion county, December 5, 1848, receiving in his youth an exceptionally thorough mental training in the public school. He began his career by working upon his father's farm until he attained the age of twenty years, when he became an oil driller at Pleasantville, Pennsylvania. He has spent his entire life in the oil and gas business, being now quite extensively engaged in that capacity. He has operated oil wells in many counties not only in Pennsylvania, but also in Ohio, sometimes alone, and sometimes in partnership with others. He drilled the gas wells for, and helped to establish the Bridgewater Gas Co., in the Sheffield district, but subsequently sold his interest therein. He is one of the stockholders of the Beaver National Bank and was one of the prime factors in its organization. In 1891, Mr. Galey settled in Beaver, where he purchased a brick dwelling from A. Moore, and has since made his residence there, taking an active interest in the progress of his adopted town.
Mr. Galey was joined in matrimony with Ida Nicholas, an accomplished lady of great force and sweetness of character. Mrs. Galey is a daughter of Charles and Isadore (Howard) Nicholas. Her father was born in Ohio, and died in early manhood, leaving a widow and one little daughter, Ida, to mourn his untimely death. Mrs. Nicholas contracted a second matrimonial alliance, this time with Obi Olds, by whom she had one son, Herbert, now deceased. A second time she was deprived of her companion and after a suitable period, married a third time, becoming the wife of William Fenton, to whom she bore three daughters: Minnie M.; Miranda I.; and Lydia A. Mrs. Fenton departed this life at the age of fifty-eight years.
To our subject and his estimable wife have been born two sons and two daughters, whose names are: Herbert Edgar; Willie; Etta Irene; and Charlana Mabel. The two sons died in infancy, and Etta Irene became the wife of Howard Atha, of Allegheny, Pennsylvania. Charlana Mabel is the darling of the household, which she rules at will. She was born as recently as July 24, 1897. Mr. and Mrs. Galey are active members of the Methodist Episcopal church. The subject of this sketch is a son of Robert and Margaret (Rogers) Galey, and grandson of Daniel and Margaret (Fulton) Galey. Daniel Galey was a native of Ireland and came to America in 1819, landing at Philadelphia, Pa., and settling in Maryland, along the Chesapeake Bay. There he accepted a position as manager of an extensive plantation, and was overseer of a large number of slaves. He continued to work in that capacity until cut off by death at about forty years of age. He was joined in matrimony with Margaret Fulton, who survived him until she attained the advanced age of seventy-eight years. After the death of her husband Mrs. Galey and her children removed to Belle Vernon, Fayette county, Pennsylvania. Their son, Robert, is the father of the subject of this sketch.
Robert Galey was born in the Province of Connaught, Ireland, in 1811, and accompanied his parents to America, when only eight years old. At the age of fourteen years, he was apprenticed to learn the blacksmith's trade, which he mastered in all its details, serving a full apprenticeship. He became quite skilled as a workman, made axes by hand and was considered an expert pattern maker. He started a small shop for himself, and by strict attention to his business accumulated quite a sum of money for those days. In 1835, he removed to Cherry Run, Clarion county, Pa., and purchased 10o acres of new land, which he cleared into fields for farming purposes. Later he sold out and purchased a larger tract of timber land at Red Bank, in the same county. He busied himself cutting his timber, which he sold to the operators of a charcoal furnace. Iron ore was also discovered on his land, in such paying quantities that by its sale, he not only paid off all his indebtedness, but was enabled to purchase three good farms along the Allegheny River in Perry township, Clarion county, Pennsylvania. During the Civil War, Mr. Galey was largely interested in raising sheep upon these farms; at one time he and his sons owned as many as B00 fine specimens. In 1867, oil was discovered on his farm, after which, for several years, he was largely interested in numerous oil wells. In company with his son John, he purchased Kink's Island, and put down a well that yielded an average of 75 barrels of crude oil per day for a period of four years. Another deal which was considered among his best investments, was the purchase of the Captain Clark farm in Washington county, for $17,000. Four years later he sold it for manufacturing purposes, for the round sum of $40,000. Since then the place was sold for $100,000.
Robert Galey possessed a strong constitution and was an active, energetic man with nerves of iron. He was a self-made man in the truest sense of the word, not only accumulating a large fortune but loaning considerable amounts of money and being very charitable. He was highly esteemed by all who knew him, and spent his last days at Belle Vernon, where his death occurred in June, 1895. He was twice married. His first wife, whose maiden name was Rachel Sparr, a daughter of John Sparr, died at the early age of thirty-two years, leaving three sons as a legacy to her husband. Their names are: John H., who is a member of the firm of Guffey & Galey at East End, Pittsburg, Pa.; Thomas F., of Beaver; and Robert, also of Beaver. Some time after the death of his first wife, Mr. Galey married again. This time he was wedded to Margaret Rogers, who is still living. She is a daughter of Samuel and Margaret (Cook) Rogers, and was born December 25, 1822. Her father was born in Donegal, Ireland, was a son of George Rogers, and grandson of Oliver Rogers, who was born in England, but settled in Ireland, and, in his day, was said to be the tallest man in Europe. His son George visited America, but stayed only a short time, returning to Ireland, where he died. The latter's son, George Rogers, came to America in 1832, settling in Clarion county, Pa., where he engaged in agricultural pursuits, near Parker's Landing. His life was terminated by death at the age of sixty-six years, while his wife lived to be seventy-two years of age. Their children were: Elizabeth; Jane; Sally; Margaret, mother of William R.; Rebecca; Letitia; William; and Mary.
Robert Galey's second marriage resulted in the birth of the following offspring: William R., subject of this sketch; Samuel, a dealer in oil at East End, Pittsburg; Daniel, also a dealer in oil, residing at Parker, Pa.; Rachel, wife of Thomas Grant; James G., of Beaver, also in the oil business; David H., superintendent of the Sewickley Gas Co.; and Laura G., wife of Lieut. Charles Farnsworth,-Mrs. Farnsworth is now deceased, and left one son, Robert.
Our subject is a man of sterling worth, of upright dealings, and is a useful member of the community, who has contributed his share to the enterprise and thrift of Beaver. He gives liberally of his means to worthy charities, and assists in many ways to elevate the moral and social life of his community.
FRANCIS L. BANKS, deceased, was well known in Beaver Falls as a valuable
and enterprising citizen, and he was worthy the respect and esteem accorded him by the residents of that borough. He was a machinist by trade, and for many years served in the capacity of superintendent of the hardening department of the Great Western File Works of Beaver Falls. He was a son of Francis and Maria (Barton) Banks, and was born in New York City, July 19, 1825.
On the Banks side, the family is of English origin, and the grandfather, William Banks, was a native of London, England. His son Francis resided in New York City and was there engaged in business all his life. On the maternal side, the great-grandfather was Henry Barton of Hollandish extraction, and he was a soldier in the War of Independence, lived in Hackensack, N. J., and owned a number of slaves.
Francis L. Banks was reared in New York City and there also obtained his elementary training; in his younger days he was engaged in the book-binding business in that city, but subsequently drifted into the file business. Upon coming to Beaver Falls he was tendered the position of superintendent of the hardening department of the Great Western File Works, which position he accepted and faithfully performed the duties of that responsible office until his retirement about the year 1891. Mr. Banks was prominently connected with different fraternities; he was at one time grand templar of Pennsylvania, was a member and secretary of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and was also a member and secretary of the Royal Arcanum. Politically, Mr. Banks took an energetic part in the organization of the Republican party in this vicinity, but though active in party affairs, he never sought political distinction. In his religious action he was a consistent member of the Episcopal church, and was also a senior warden many years; he was also a great worker in the Brotherhood of St. Andrews. His demise took place at his home in Beaver Falls, February 18, 1899, and his death wasdeeply deplored by his family and his friends, who knew him as a dutiful citizen and friend, a kind neighbor, and a loving father and husband.
Mr. Banks was joined in marriage with Miss Mary Culver; she was born April 3, 1827, and died January 2o, 1889. She was a daughter of Daniel Culver, a native of New York City, and he traces his ancestral history back to 1632; the Culver family is one of the oldest families in New England, and her grandfather was in the Revolutionary War. Mr. and Mrs. Banks were the parents of one daughter, Gertrude Kendall, the wife of William H. Chandley. Mr. Chandley is engaged in plumbing, gas and steam fitting, and also contracts for the laying of water works systems. He is located in Beaver Falls, where he has already established a large patronage. To Mr. and Mrs. Chandley have been born a family of seven children: Henry Banks; Gertrude May; Sarah Winifred; Mary Ivy; Anna Drusilla; Georgia Caroline; and George Francis, deceased.
HEZEKIAH HULME is the efficient and well-known sexton of Grove Cemetery, New Brighton, Pa., and he has been in charge of the same for the past score of years. He was born in Lancastershire, England, February 23, 1844, and is a son of Mark and Mary (Flindle) Hulme.
Mark Hulme was born in England, and there he continued to reside until his death in 1863, pursuing his vocation as a hat maker, which he had learned during his boyhood days.
Hezekiah Hulme also learned the hatter's trade, and upon his arrival in the United States in 1868, he remained in Lewiston, Maine, a short time, and there took up his former occupation. He then made a trip to Denver, Colo., and after prospecting in the West, he returned East and first located in Mercer county, Pa., and later, in Beaver county, where he has ever since continued to reside. He first settled in Beaver Falls, where he worked at cutlery, but in 1879, he was given charge of his present position. The Grove Cemetery was incorporated March 19, 1859, and the grounds were dedicated to the purpose of burial October 13, 1859; thirty-two acres were first purchased adjoining Block House Run, and later, twenty-seven acres were added thereto. The cemetery is lorated on the east side of New Brighton, near Braeburn Hillside stream, and is commonly known as Oak Hill; beautiful drives and walks are laid out through the grounds, which contains many fine oak, hickory, ash, and elm trees. There is also an attractive variety of shrubbery, which is always kept in excellent trim by Mr. Hulme and his assistants; there are two entrances to the cemetery, one on Grove avenue and the other on Nineteenth avenue, better known as the north entrance. Mr. Hulme occupies a neat cottage near the Grove street entrance, and his assistant also resides near that entrance. By the faithful performance of his duties the subject of this sketch has gained for himself the esteem andgood-will of not only the members of the corporation, but of the citizens of New Brighton and vicinity.
Mr. Hulme was first united in marriage with Sarah Chadwick, a daughter of George Chadwick, and a native of England; she died at the age of twenty-five years, leaving one son, George, who is also deceased. His second wife is Matilda Swift, a daughter of James Swift, of Liverpool, England, a contractor and builder, who died at the age of fifty-five years, in Cheshire, England. Mr. Hulme is a faithful member of the I. O. O. F., of which he is also past grand; and a member and past chief patriarch of the Encampment. In religious views, he is inclined to favor the Episcopal church. In politics, he is a Republican.
RICHARD SMITH HOLT, a leading attorney-at-law of Beaver, Pa., and one of the ablest lawyers in Beaver county, is a member of the law firm of Wilson & Holt. Mr. Holt was a pupil
in the public school and in Peirsol's Academy at West Bridgewater, after which he attended the
State Normal course at Edinboro, Pa., working his way through college by teaching,
which profession he followed for some time after his graduation. After teaching for six
years, he began to study law under the late Samuel B. Wilson, Esq. After his admission
to the bar in 1888, he entered upon the pratice of his profession, and after the death of
his preceptor he became a law partner of George Wilson, the son of Samuel B. Wilson.
Since then the firm has been Wilson & Holt.
For a man whose life has been as busy as his, Mr. Holt has done much outside of his regular duties. He is now serving his sixth year as a member of the city council. He is deeply interested in educational matters, and has served as a member of the school board. He is a prominent and active member of the American Mechanics.
Mr. Holt purchased a vacant lot near the corner of Fourth and Market streets upon which he built a handsome residence in 1892 and 1893. When his day's work is done, and he retires to his home, he is pleasantly greeted by his accomplished wife, and five unusually bright and interesting little ones, of whom both Mr. and Mrs. Holt are extremely proud. Mrs. Holt was, before her marriage, Sarah Eveline Brunton, a daughter of William A. Brunton, a sketch of whose life will be included as a part of this narrative. Their children's names and ages are as follows: Beulah G., born January 2o, 1886; Mary Jane, born January 19, 1888; Elizabeth Wilson, horn April 6, 1890; Margaret Anna, born September 22, 1892; and Sarah Eveline, born in May, 1898.
Richard Smith Holt is a son of Samuel J. and Mary Ann (Taylor) Holt, a grandson of William Holt, a great-grandson of Thomas Holt, Jr., and a great-great-grandson of Thomas Holt, Sr. The family is of English origin.
Thomas Holt, Sr., removed from the eastern part of Pennsylvania to Mifflin county, Pa., settling at McVeytown, Oliver township,where he owned 600 acres of land. He was joined in wedlock with Elizabeth Mitchell, a (laughter of John and Jane (Ross) Mitchell. Their union was blessed with numerous offspring, namely: Thomas, Jr., who married Elizabeth Walker; John, who married Sarah Mellikin; William; Elizabeth, wife of John Magee; Mary, wife of Jacob Yost; Jane, wife of John McClintock; Dorcas, wife of Mr. Stackpole; Eleanor, wife of Francis Windell; and James, who was killed by the Indians.
Thomas Holt, Jr., was a farmer, and lost his beloved wife not many years after their marriage. He went to Trumbull county, Ohio, where his death is supposed to have occurred, as all trace of him was lost. Only two children were born to him and his wife, and they were twins: William Humphrey and Dorcas,-born in 18o6. Dorcas became the wife of James Critchlow.
William Humphrey Holt located in Brighton township, Beaver county, Pa., about 1833, as the tax receipts of 1834 show that he paid taxes on a farm previously purchased by him. This farm is now the property of S. R. Workman. Later, Mr. Holt sold that farm and bought one which Samuel Johnson now owns. Still later, he purchased a farm just west of the Samuel Johnson farm, and upon it he spent his closing years. Upon all his farms he made improvements, and the last one purchased by him is still owned by his heirs. He laid down the burden of life in 1877, while his wife lived until 1896, when, at the age of ninety-three years and two months, she passed away. Mr. Holt was a very public-spirited man and served as supervisor of his township and as school director, and was elder and class leader of the M. E. church. Six children were born to him and his worthy wife, namely: Mary, who first became the wife of Socrates Small, and after his death wedded George Triess; Thomas Fritz, who married Margaret J. Fritz; John Wesley, who died in infancy; Samuel Jacob, the father of our subject; Dorcas, who also died in infancy; and Rachel Ann, wife of John Hogue.
Samuel Jacob Holt, father of our subject, was born in Brighton township, Beaver county, and was reared on a farm. When grown, he followed the occupation of teaming until he purchased a farm in Brighton township, upon which he lived until 1898, when he abandoned farming and retired to Beaver, Pennsylvania. His whole life has been spent in agricultural pursuits, in which he has been successful to such a marked degree that he not only still owns his farm, but also property in Beaver and Vanport. In his political views, the elder Mr. Holt follows the leadership of the Republican party. He was united in marriage with Mary Ann Taylor, whose life was terminated by death in 1898, at the age of sixty years. Their children were: William H., who married Carrie R. Hamilton, and is a prosperous farmer of Brighton township; Richard Smith, the subject of this life-review; Thomas Fritz, who was twice married, -Annie Merton being his first wife, and Rebecca McCollough the second one, and who is a stone mason at New Castle; Elizabeth Jane, and Jefferson, were the next two, whoboth died in infancy; Mary, wife of Dr. James H. Shoemaker of East Liverpool, Ohio; Frank R., D. D. S., a successful dentist of Beaver, Pa.; and Clyde, a teacher and law student of Beaver.
Richard Smith Holt first saw the light of clay in Borough township, Beaver county, Pa., on December 15, 186o. He is still a young man and his friends predict great things for him in the future.
William A. Brunton, father-in-law of our subject, was born in Green township, Beaver county, Pa. He is a son of John and Margaret (Alexander) Brunton, and grandson of William Brunton. William Brunton was of German nationality, and was a farmer by occupation. Little is known of him except that he located in Green township, and lived to be about seventy-five years of age. His wife, Barbara, lived to he about eighty-five years old, and bore her husband eleven children, as follows: John; Joseph; Thomas; Henry; William; Elizabeth; Sarah; Rachel; Rebecca; Nancy; and Mary Ann.
John Brunton, father of William A., inherited a part of the homestead farm, and followed the quiet and peaceful life of a farmer all his clays. He died at about fifty years of age, but his wife, who was a daughter of Stephen Alexander, lived about seventy-seven years. Their children were: Mary; William, father of Mrs. Holt; Elizabeth; Sarah; and Barbara.
William A. Brunton bought out all the heirs and became owner of the homestead, which he sold later and embarked in the grocery business at Shippingport. This he conducted for twelve years, and then returned to farming, which he continued until 1887, when he removed to Beaver, Pennsylvania. Since then he has been interested in other pursuits. He was joined in marriage with Mary J. Vazey, a daughter of Francis Vazey. One son and six daughters blessed their union. They were named: John; Sarah E., wife of Richard Smith Holt; Margaret; Lalla Belle; Estella E.; Daisy F.; and Barbara E.
William A. Brunton enlisted in 1862 in Company H, 140th Reg., Pa. Vol., as a private. The principal battles in which he took part were: Fredericksburg and Gettysburg. At the latter he was wounded in the knee and leg, which prevented his walking for three years. He now draws a pension from the U. S. Government, and is a valued member of the G. A. R., Post No. 47; he also belongs to the I. O. O. F. Few men so completely have the confidence of the public as has Mr. Brunton, and his standing is certainly well merited.
JACOB PFLUG, a gentleman who for many years has been a prominent and influential farmer of Marion township, Beaver county, Pa., is now living on his farm of one hundred and forty acres, which is known as the old Pflug homestead, and enjoying the benefits of his early toil. He is a son of George and Dorothy (Martzolf) Pflug, and was born on May 28, 1817, in Germany, about ten miles from where the first battle of the Franco-Prussian War was fought.
George Pflug, the father of Jacob, came to America on March 16, 1830, with his entire family, and after a voyage of sixty-four days landed in Baltimore, Md., on the 9th of June following. They next moved to Pittsburg by means of a six-horse team, arriving on July 4th, and there George Pflug obtained employment in a nail factory, although his trade was that of a carpenter. When he landed in that city he had but $100, but by hard and conscientious work, in September of the year 1830, he was enabled to buy forty acres of wild land at a cost of $135. In the fall he moved his family to Marion township, Beaver county, where the property was located, and there he built a log house. The next year, leaving his family at home, he went to Phillipsburg, Pa., and worked at boat building for a man named Phillips, continuing thus for three years. In 1833, he erected a small house at Freedom, Pa., it being the first one built in that town, and sold his first purchase at a price of $1,100. He then bought the land on which the house of Jacob Pflug is now located ; at that time it was all timber land, but prior to his death it was mostly cleared. He lived upon this property the remainder of his life and at the time of his death in July, 1850,
In 1840, Mr. Pflug was joined in wedlock with Salama Householder, by whom he had the following issue: Jacob, the husband of Caroline Herrman ; Salama, the wife of Henry Schramm; Caroline, the wife of John Geohring; Frederick, deceased; Henry, whose wife is Caroline Miller; Mary, the wife of Henry France; George, deceased; Elizabeth, the wife of Frederick Harmon; Amelia, the wife of William Caterrer ; Daniel, who married Elizabeth Gettman; and Matilda, whose first husband was Elmer Geohring, and who was married a second time to Albert Hartzel. The subject of this sketch after the death of his first wife, was united in marriage with Vernelia Geohring, and they have one son, Albert, who resides at home. Politically, he is a Democrat and has held all of the township offices excepting those of justice of the peace and constable. Religiously, he is a devout Lutheran. His portrait is presented on a preceding page, in proximity to this.
ALBERT MYLER, a gentleman who has made his home in Beaver county for little more than a decade, has established a reputation for general business ability which entitles him to be ranked among the leading men of Western Pennsylvania. His start in life was an inauspicious one, but with a degree of energy such as but few possess, he strove for success, and to-day is a member of the firm of Dawes & Myler, owners and proprietors of one of the largest manufacturing establishments in the county.
Messrs. Dawes and Myler, both men in the prime of life and possessed of considerable experience, located in New Brighton, Beaver county, in 1888, and purchased four acres of land at Allegheny street and Block House Run, on which they built a brick plant and engaged in the manufacture of porcelain lined bath-tubs and sanitary specialties, and also of plumbers' supplies. They employed about eighty men of experience during the first year, and in March, 1889, placed their product on the market. Being of a superior quality, no difficulty was experienced in selling all that could be produced, and in time it was seen that the plant must be enlarged to meet the requirements of the demand. In 1892, an additional three acres of land was purchased, and now six acres are covered with buildings, all of which are of brick but the foundry, which is a substantial frame building. It is heated by hot air and lighted by electricity from their own light plant. The works are run by steam and are in operation day and night,-as many as 425 men being employed daily,-and the pay roll per day being not less than $1,00o. It is a fact worthy of mention that ever since the firm was first organized, the plant has been in full operation and has not missed a single pay day. It can readily be seen that in addition to bringing industrious men and establishing new homes in the town, the large amount of money put in circulation by the employees has resulted in material benefit to the borough of New Brighton. The goods of their manufacture have a wide reputation and are sold inthe markets of all the countries of Europe, in Australia, Japan, Cuba, and the Hawaiian Islands, as well as in every state in the Union.
Mr. Myler was born in Pittsburg, Pa., and is a son of John A. Myler, who during his early life was engaged at merchant tailoring and attained a high degree of success. He retired from that line of business and became president of the National Bank for Savings. For eighteen years he served as postmaster of Allegheny with credit. W. Albert Myler was reared in his native city and obtained a good intellectual training in the, schools there. Energetic and ambitious as a boy, he early sought employment and was engaged in the wholesale mercantile business until 1878, when he became bookkeeper for the Standard Manufacturing Company of Pittsburg. He remained in that connection until 1888, when he removed to New Brighton, and engaged in business for himself as a member of the firm of Dawes & Myler. He has since evinced an earnest interest in all that pertains to the growth and development of the borough, and is one of its most dutiful citizens. He purchased a fine lot which was a part of the old Metz orchard at one time, and in 1897 built thereon an elegant brick residence, modern in design and in all its conveniences. Surrounded on every side by a beautiful and well-graded lawn, with its drives and walks, it presents a very attractive appearance and is always greatly admired.
W. Albert Myler was united in marriage with Mary I. K. Dennison, a daughter of Prof. David Dennison of Youngstown, Ohio. Prof.Dennison was one of the early academy teachers in New Brighton, Allegheny City, and Pittsburg. This union was blessed with two children; Mary Gertrude and Jean Hay.
DR. ADDISON S. MOON. Preeminent among the young physicians and surgeons of note, so numerous in Beaver county, Pa., stands the subject of this sketch. There is no cause more noble than that of relieving suffering humanity, no life more nobly spent than in faith-fully fulfilling the duties incident to the life of a physician and surgeon. Dr. Moon was born at Hookstown, Beaver county, Pa., on October 25, 1859. He is a son of Robert Allison and Sarah (Sterling) Moon, and grandson of William Sterling, of Ireland.
William Sterling came to America from his native land, locating in Green township, Beaver county, where he finally settled permanently and followed the peaceful occupation of a farmer. He thought little of the dangers which were to be met and overcome in a new and undeveloped country, and it is largely due to the bravery of such men as he, that the Keystone Slate owes her prosperity today. He lived to a good old age, passing away in the same community where he had spent so many happy years.
Robert Moon, father of Addison S., was born in Rensselaer county, N. Y., where he was also reared and educated. After reaching manhood, he desired t0 fit himself for something better than an ordinary life, and decided in favor of the profession of medicine as his future sphere of effort. Accordingly he went west and studied medicine with his brother, Arnold C. Moon, of Knoxville, Ohio. After completing his studies and taking the required course of medical lectures, he went to Hookstown, Pa., in 1845, and opened an office. His genial and pleasant manners won many favorable comments among the residents of that place. Soon fortune smiled on his endeavors, and his practice, small at first, increased to great proportions, during the thirty years of his stay there. But there came a time when he desired a change of location, and April 6, 1875, he removed to Beaver Falls, where he spent his closing years, actively engaged in the duties of his profession, and being looked upon as a very skillful physician. He crossed the river of death to the light beyond, on October 26, 1892. More than half a century was passed by him in doing good to others. Who shall say that he has not received his just reward? In early life he led pretty Sarah Sterling to the hymeneal altar, and she proved to be a most tender and solicitous companion; when returning from some long, tiresome journey, weary and exhausted, he was greatly cheered and refreshed by her sweet companionship. Mrs. Moon was born February 2, 1829. Two children blessed their happy union, Helen M. and Addison S., the subject of this sketch. Helen M. was twice married ; her first husband was Rev. James S. Brandon, a minister of the United Presbyterian church. She is
now the wife of William A. McCormick, an attorney-at-law, of Mercer, Pennsylvania.
Addison S. Moon received his primary education in the schools of Hookstown and Beaver Falls. Later, he attended Beaver Seminary, and spent two years at Westminster College. In addition to this, he took private instruction for some time, being ambitious to obtain the best possible education. He then studied medicine in the office of his father, who was desirous of leaving his large practice to his only son. After studying diligently for some time, young Moon took a three years' course in the medical department of the Western Reserve College at Cleveland, Ohio, from which he graduated with high honors in 1884. On February 27th of that year, he returned to Beaver Falls, and practiced his chosen profession, but after two years, being ambitious to become more thorough in his calling, he went to New York City, where he took a special course in the College of Physicians and Surgeons. He also took a course in Polyclinics in New York: Returning again to Beaver Falls, he has practiced there ever since, with even greater success than he anticipated.
Dr. Moon is a member of the American Medical Association and is secretary of the Beaver County Medical Society. of which he has been a member since locating in Beaver Falls. Politically, he is a Republican, but never sought nor desired office. The Doctor is also a member of numerous beneficiary societies; being examiner for the Prudential Life Insurance Company and also for the Western Mutual Life Association of Chicago. On May 17, 1888, Lulo A. Perrott became his bride and this union has augmented his pleasures and soothed his sorrows. Their home was brightened by two children, but the grim messenger, Death, recalled one precious treasure. The names of their children are: Merl P., born March 4, 1891, and Alta Sterling, born June 1, 1894, and died July 12, 1894, being deprived of life by a sad accident.
Dr. Moon is a self-made man according to the common significance of the term. As a physician, he is well and favorably known throughout a large circle of patrons, a reputation he has won by a degree of energy, de-termination, and skill, that have secured for him an extensive field of practice and have fairly given him a place among the leading men of his profession.
JOHN IMBRIE MARTIN, whose portrait is shown on the opposite page, is a substantial and capable citizen of the town of Beaver, with which community he has been prominently identified for many years. He has served as deputy sheriff, and as sheriff, of Beaver county, but is now engaged in the real estate business. He was born on the old homestead in Darlington township, Beaver county, and is a son of James Powers Martin, and a grandson of James Martin.
Major Hugh Martin was the great-grandfather of the subject hereof, and although
born in the North of Ireland, he was of Scotch-French extraction; he came to this country in 1770, and was an Indian scout and captain of a reconnoitering party during the War of Independence; he met with many thrilling adventures while in that capacity, which he was wont to relate with pleasure. Before the close of the war he was commissioned a major. About the year 1798, he took up a tract of fifteen hundred acres of land, a portion of which was near Greensburg, Westmoreland county, Pa., and the rest extended into Darlington township, Beaver county. His three sons, William, John, and James inherited the estate upon his death.
Mr. Martin's grandfather received the homestead and one hundred and seventy-five acres, as his portion of the estate; he greatly improved the property by supplanting the old net of log buildings with a new set of brick and stone buildings, which are still in use by the heirs of his son, James P. He reared a family of children, and those who grew to maturity were: Hugh, Daniel, Leasure, Jesse, Robert, John, James P., Eliza J., and Maria. He died aged seventy-two years, and his wife, Elizabeth Leasure, also attained an advanced age.
James Powers Martin was born in 1828, on the homestead, and upon the death of his father, bought out the interests of the heirs to the homestead; the greater part of his life was devoted to farming, in which he was very successful. 'He was at one time connected with an oil refinery, which was built on his farm, the oil being manufactured from cannelcoal. From January 1, 1876, to 1879, he served as sheriff of this county, being elected on the Republican ticket. At about seven o'clock on Christmas Eve of 1892, he was struck by an engine while walking down the railroad track, from the result of which he died the next day at one o'clock. He had just left the railway station after accompanying his daughter there, and was on his return home, when the accident occurred. His death was deeply lamented both by his family and relatives, and by his host of friends. He was married, in 1850, to Mary Imbrie, a daughter of John Imbrie, a prominent farmer of Big Beaver township, Beaver county, and they were the parents of the following children: James R., a lawyer of Beaver; John I., the subject hereof; Rose, the wife of A. Duff, of Beaver Falls; Mary I., the wife of Isaac Hall; William H., a real estate dealer of Beaver Falls; De Lorma E.; Lilla J., the wife of Dr. J. R. McQuaid, of Leetsdale, Pa.; and Jere C.
John Imbrie Martin was reared on the farm and attended the Darlington Academy; he continued to work on the homestead until he became associated with A. Duff in the dry goods business at Beaver Falls. Four years later he sold out and returned to farming, which he followed four years. He was then deputy sheriff under Sheriff A. J. Welsh, for one term, and in 1890 he was elected sheriff, -his term beginning January 1, 1891, and ending January I, 1894. During this period, he erected dwelling houses on Fourth street, also one on Beaver street, in
which he made his home; in 1898, he erected his present handsome residence opposite the college, on College street. Mr. Martin devotes much of his time to real estate ; he is also interested in other enterprises in the borough.
Mr. Martin was joined in matrimonial bonds with Griselda Best, a daughter of Charles L. Best of Lawrence county, and one child has blessed their home,-Norman I., horn June 28, 1894. Politically, the subject of this biography is an active Republican; he has been elected a director of the schools for several terms. Religiously, he is a Presbyterian. Fraternally, he is a member and past master of St. James Lodge, No. 457, F. & A. M. Mr. Martin is a prominent member of the Beaver County Agricultural Society, of which he has been treasurer for the past three years.
JERE C. MARTIN is conspicuous among the prominent and influential members of the Beaver County Bar,-being a partner of his brother, J. R. Martin, with the firm name as Martin & Martin. His popularity and executive ability have been appreciated by the citizens of Beaver, to the extent that he has been honored with the office of chief burgess of his adopted town, and he is at present officiating in that capacity. He was born in Darlington township, Beaver county, April 11, 1867, and his ancestors have been residents of this county for more than a century. He is a son of ex-Sheriff James Powers Martin, grandson of James. Martin, and great-grandson of Hugh Martin.
Major Hugh Martin was born in the north of Ireland and was of Scotch-French origin ; he came to America in 1770 and served during the Revolutionary War as an Indian scout and captain of a reconnoitering party, in which capacity he met with many thrilling adventures, which he often related with pleasure. He was commissioned major during the latter part of the war. About the year 1798, he settled in Westmoreland county, Pa., near Greensburg, and there he took up a tract of fifteen hundred acres of land; the larger part of it extended into Beaver county, Darlington township. Upon his death his estate was divided among his three sons, William, John and James.
James Martin received the homestead and one hundred and seventy-five acres of choice land; the first set of buildings was made of logs, but James Martin built large brick and stone buildings, all of which are still in constant use, and are owned by the heirs of his son, James P. Martin. James Powers Martin was one of a family of twelve children ; those who grew to maturity were Hugh, Daniel, Leasure, Jesse, Robert, John, James P., Eliza J., and Maria. James Martin died aged seventy-two years, leaving a large estate; his wife, Elizabeth Leasure, also died at an advanced age.
The father of Jere C. Martin was born on the homestead in 1828, and bought out the heirs of his father's estate upon the latter's death; his entire life was principally devoted
to agricultural pursuits, but he was at one time associated with an oil refinery built on his farm,-the oil being manufactured from cannel coal. He was elected sheriff of Beaver county on the Republican ticket and served from January 1, 1876 to 1879. On the evening of December 24, 1892, Mr. Martin accompanied his daughter, Mrs. A. Duff, and family, to the railway station in a conveyance, and, upon their departure, he started on his way home, walking down the track, but just before leaving the track he was struck by an engine. This occurred about seven o'clock in the evening, and on the next day at one o'clock he departed from this world. He was popular, widely known throughout the county, a good citizen and friend, and his many excellent qualities and courteous bearing gained for him the esteem and respect of all who knew him. He was married in 1850 to Mary Imbrie, a daughter of John Imbrie, a prominent farmer of Big Beaver township, this county. She was born in 1831, and died in 1877. They were the parents of the following children : James Rankin, a partner in the law firm of Martin & Martin; John Imbrie, ex-sheriff of this county; Rose, the wife of A. Duff of Beaver Falls; Mary I., the wife of Isaac Hall; William H., a prominent real estate dealer of Beaver Falls; De Lorma E.; Lilla J., the wife of Dr. J. R. McQuaid, of Leetsdale, Pa.; and Jere C.
The subject of this sketch was intellectually trained in the public schools, in Greersburg Academy, and in Washington and Jefferson College at Washington, Pa.; from 1891 to1893 he served as deputy sheriff under Sheriff John Imbrie Martin, his brother, and during this period he devoted his spare time in the study of law, having access to his brother's law library. September 19, 1894, he was admitted to the bar and immediately became a partner with his brother, J. R. Martin. Since January 1, 1897, he has served as chief burgess of Beaver, being elected on the Republican ticket. The borough of Beaver is located on the north hank of the Ohio River and near the mouth of Beaver River. Under the administration of Hon. Thomas Martin, then Governor of Pennsylvania, in 1791, the town was surveyed and laid out. Martin & Martin, attorneys-at-law, have a fine office in the Dawson Block on Third street, and also one in Beaver Falls. Jere C. Martin has only been practicing a little over four years, but is recognized as exceedingly bright, of excellent address, quick to see the point and application of law, of unusually good judgment, accurate in the preparation of legal papers or causes for trial, and as having a clear legal mind and giving promise of standing high in the ranks of his profession. His partner, J. R. Martin, is a hard and conscientious worker, thoroughly equipped for his profession, and he has merited the confidence reposed in him, his progress having been deservedly rapid.
Jere C. Martin was wedded in 1894 to Miss Rose Best, a daughter of Charles L. Best of Enon, Lawrence county, Pa., and two children have been born to them, Dorothea and Griselda. He is the owner of a fine home in Beaver. Socially, he is a member and past master of St. James Lodge, F. &. A. M.; and is also a member of the Elks; and the K. of P.
JOSEPH T. PUGH, whose portrait appears on the opposite page, is, perhaps, the oldest living resident in Beaver county, Pa., his birth occurring at Fallston, January 6, 1809; he has for many years made his home in New Brighton. He has the appearance of a man of sixty years, being still strong and active, with mind unimpaired; he has fine eye-sight,-as he still reads without glasses,-and he may be considered an authority on the early history of this county. His father, John Pugh, was a son of Jonathan Pugh, and a grandson of John Pugh.
John Pugh was of Welsh origin, and was among the early Quaker settlers of Philadelphia. Jonathan was born in Limerick township, Philadelphia county, Pa., and his wedding with Naomi Evans was solemnized at a meeting held at Gwynedd, in that county, September 27, 1759; our subject has the certificate of the marriage framed and in good condition; it was signed by thirty-two witnesses. They settled in Chester county, Pa., where he bought two plantations. His death occurred March 8, 1798. His children were: Elihu, Evan, Jesse, John, Ruth, Sarah, Jesse, (2), and Mary.
John Pugh was born near Pughtown, Chester county, August 20, 1779; his brother Evan was also born there November 13, 1765. In May, 1804, John and Evan Pugh came to Beaver county, and as both had learned the milling trade, they erected mills at Fallston. Their mill was not only patronized by the farmers of the neighborhood, but many came from distant points to have their wheat ground. They shipped extensively to Pittsburg,-the flour and feed being taken to that city on boats. Later a carding and cloth dressing factory was added, and still later they began to manufacture cotton goods. Evan Pugh withdrew from the business a number of years later and the father of Joseph T. continued alone until 1858, when he rented the mills. He also conducted a grocery store at Fallston and operated a linseed oil mill. His mills were all destroyed by fire, in which he suffered heavy losses. He built the handsome brick residence now occupied by Mr. McKibben, and resided there until death claimed him in May, 186o. He married Sarah Townsend ; she was born January 13, 1777, and died July 16, 1826. They were the parents of the following children: Jonathan; Caroline ; Mary Ann ; and Joseph T., the subject hereof. Jonathan died young; Caro-line died in 1831,-she was the wife of John Minor, and the mother of one daughter, Caroline, who married David Critchlow; Mary Ann, who died in 1881, was first married to Warren Seely, M. D., and later, to John Minor,-she is the mother of Henry, John F., and Henrietta. John Pugh, father of our subject, formed a second union, with Mrs. Ann Peck. He was president of the branch of the United States Bank, located at New Brighton.
The subject of this record attended such schools as were held in his native district, and early in life learned the machinists' trade at Fallston; he did not pursue his chosen occupation to any great extent, however, as he began the manufacture of barrels and window sashes, which he continued until he retired from active business life. He also became interested in various other enterprises in the village.
Mr. Pugh wedded Nancy, a daughter of Robert and Nancy McCreary of Fayette county, Pa., and she died aged fifty-six years. They reared the following children: John; Sarah Ann; Evan; Mary; Caroline Cecelia; Irene Ida; and Henry. John is a dentist of Philadelphia, and wedded Amelia Blanchard. Evan, deceased, was married to Catherine Price, by whom he had two children. Mary first married H. C. Torrey, and, secondly, was wedded to George Post. Caroline Cecelia married Eugene Pierce, and one child, Mary E., was born to them. Henry married Fannette Line and they have three children: Harry, Fred, and Helen. Mr. Pugh was reared a Friend and has always adhered to that faith. He has taken a prominent part in promoting the growth and prosperity of the town and county, and his kind and genial disposition has made him a popular and much respected citizen; he has proved himself a good neighbor, and a kind and loving husband and father; now while passing through the sunset of life, and enjoying the fruits of a laborious past, he is surrounded by a host of warm friends who will always cherish and honor his name.
LEWIS GRAHAM, the efficient sheriff of Beaver county, Pa., who was elected
to that office in 1897 by over 1,200 majority (the largest majority ever received by any candidate in the history of Beaver county), is a large, splendidly built and well-proportioned man, and an ideal sheriff. He was born in Freedom, Beaver county, June 26, 185o, is a son of John and Sarah (Feazell) Graham, and grandson of Adam and Nancy (Bell) Graham.
After attending public school at Freedom, Lewis was a pupil in the New Brighton school. While still a lad, he became messenger boy for the Western Union Telegraph Co., at New Brighton. Being an ambitious boy, he sought a position where he could do manual labor and earn money. Next he accepted a job as water boy on the railroad a short time, after which he enlisted as an orderly during the Civil War, serving in the construction corps and being engaged in rebuilding railroads. He thus spent seven months in the states of Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. He next obtained a position as cabin boy on a steamer plying on the Ohio River from Pittsburg to Omaha, Nebraska. He proved to be so capable and worthy a lad that he was offered a better position with Kensley & Whisler of New Brighton, as clerk, and worked later in the same capacity for William Kennedy. He then accepted the appointment of first baggage master for the Fort Wayne R. R., and occupied that position for two years, serving as a clerk in Pittsburg the following eight years. But, longing for his home surroundings and friends, he returned and engaged in the cutlery business for two years. He then became connected with the Singer Sewing Machine Co., remaining in their employ for ten years. Accepting a more lucrative position as clerk in the Lake Erie depot at Beaver Falls, he worked there for some time, and then took charge of the Bridge Station for a period of six years. He served three years and then became a candidate for the office of sheriff. He resigned to become deputy sheriff and the result was most gratifying to him, as he simply exchanged places with his former employer by becoming sheriff, while ex-Sheriff Molter now occupies the position of deputy.
Mr. Graham built a handsome residence on Patterson Heights, which he still owns. He moved his family to Beaver when elected, however, and resides in the residence portion of the Beaver county jail. This is a model structure, beautifully located on the south side of the public park on the corner of Market street, and nearly facing the court house. The county jail is built of sandstone from Beaver county, and was constructed in 1856. It contains thirty-six cells, fourteen of which were added in 1898. It is of modern construction throughout, being heated by a hot air furnace, and is kept in the best of order by Sheriff Graham and his able wife and assistants. The sheriff also has an office in the court house.
Adam Graham, grandfather of our subject, followed the occupation of boat building nearly all his life, constructing many steamboats for the Ohio River and also for thecanal. His life was practically spent in Freedom, where both he and his wife died. He married Nancy Bell, an attractive lady, and they reared the following children: John, now deceased, who was the father of Lewis; Addison, who settled in Kentucky, and is also deceased; Theodora, who resides in Freedom; Minerva (Cooper) ; May (Marcus) ; and Emily (Hooper).
John Graham, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Freedom, Beaver county, Pa., and spent his early life in assisting his father in boat-building. He was cut off by death just in the prime of life, dying in 1855 at the age of about forty years. His widow, who was Miss Sarah Feazell before her marriage, still survives him and resides at Beaver Falls. Their children are: John B., a carpenter of New Brighton; Lewis, the subject of this sketch; William, also a carpenter by trade, and residing in New Brighton; Helen, wife of T. M. Elliott of Beaver Falls; Zetta, wife of John Webster of New Brighton; and one daughter who died in early childhood. Our subject wooed and won for his life companion Elizabeth Carter, an accomplished daughter of William Carter. Mr. and Mrs. Graham have been blessed with a family of seven children, namely: Adelaide Victoria Carter ; Orin Palmer, who died young; Margaret Carter; Lewis Edward; Sarah Elizabeth; Oscar Lawrence Jackson; and John Reeves.
William Carter, father-in-law of our subject, was born at Morristown, Westmoreland county, Pa., is a son of Charles and Jane (Anderson) Carter, grandson of London Carter, and great-grandson of King Carter, who was given a large grant of land in Virginia. London Carter rendered valuable services to our country during the Revolutionary War.
Charles Carter was born in the eastern part of Virginia, and was engaged in the manufacture of iron, locating in . Westmoreland county, where he conducted a furnace. Later, he removed to Butler county, and later still, to old Brighton, now Beaver Falls, where he also owned a furnace. He was united in marriage with Jane Anderson, who bore him the following children: Charles; William; James; George; Charlotte; Jane; and Elizabeth. William Carter in early life followed the profession of teaching. Subsequently he was an engineer, after which he worked in the cutlery business at Beaver Falls, and owned an interest in the paper mills there. His death occurred in his seventy-fifth year. At the time of his death, he owned valuable property. Mr. Carter was joined in matrimony with Valeria Reeves, a daughter of Daniel Reeves. Mrs. Carter died at the age of fifty-two years, leaving the following six children as a legacy to her husband: Charles, who resides in the West; Celesta, now deceased; Adelaide, widow of John Scott ; Margaret, wife of T. R. Galton ; John, also deceased; and Elizabeth, wife of the subject of this review.
Sheriff Graham has always taken a deep interest in educational affairs, and has served as a member of the school board for three years. Socially, he is a member of the K. of
P., and is a charter member of Social Lodge of New Brighton. Mr. Graham has truly been the architect of his own fortune. Starting out with an humble beginning, by steady perseverance and strict adherence to his purpose, he has risen step by step, to a position where he is conspicuous in the public gaze. Sheriff Graham is a general favorite and performs the duties of his office in a highly capable manner. He is a member of the Elks. In religious feeling the family favors the Methodist church.
HON. JOHN FLEMING DRAVO, of Beaver, Pa., ex-member of the legislature, and surveyor and
revenue collector for years in Pittsburg, Pa., was also prominently connected for a long
period with the coal and coke interests of that place. He was at various times president of
the coal exchange. No man has held more positions of trust and more completely won
the confidence of the people, or done more to develop the commercial interests of that busy
city, than Mr. Dravo. He has been a director in the Tradesmen's National Bank, and the
People's Insurance Company, and has been variously connected with other corporations
of note. He was one of the prime organizers of the Pittsburg & Lake Erie R. R., and took
an active part in the construction of this line, which has paid satisfactory dividends to the
original stockholders from the first year of its existence. In educational work our subject
has always taken a deep and fitting interest, and, as trustee of the Allegheny College at Meadville, and as president of the Beaver Female College, he has won distinction by his earnest and intelligent labors. For four years he rendered valuable services as president of the State Reform School, and for eight years served as director of the Allegheny County Home, one of the most worthy of local charities. It is said that Mr. Dravo is honest to a fault, and no citizen of Allegheny or Beaver county stands higher in the estimation of the people. Every position held by him has been faithfully and honestly guarded, and upon retiring, he has left no stain or suspicion attached to his good name.
John Fleming Dravo was born in the village of West Newton, Westmoreland county, Pa., October 29, 1819, and was reared in Allegheny, attending the public schools, and after-ward entering Allegheny College, where, after two years of diligent study, his health failed and he was compelled to cut short his college career. He assisted in the office 0f his father, who was an extensive and successful coal merchant, and thereby gained a practical knowledge of business methods. Upon arriving at manhood's state, young Dravo went to McKeesport, Allegheny county, Pa., and en-gaged in mining and shipping coal, in which venture he acquired prominence and fortune and became the owner of a large amount of real estate. He planned and founded the town of Dravosburg, on the Monongahela River, less than a dozen miles from Pittsburg. In 1868, Mr. Dravo disposed of his extensive coal interests and engaged in the manufactureof coke. After establishing large plants at Connellsville, Pa., he organized the Pittsburg Gas, Coal & Coke Company, of which he became general manager and treasurer, and, later, executive head. This latter corporation began operations with 40 ovens and upon the resignation of Mr. Dravo in 1883, its plant comprised 300 ovens, and its monthly output was almost half a million bushels. A man of strict integrity and high character, with a gentle and considerate regard for the interests of the large force kept constantly employed under him, our subject made many friends among the laboring classes, among whom he is extremely popular.
In 1860, he was elected to the presidency of the Pittsburg Coal Exchange, and held that conspicuous position until his resignation in 1870. In 1884, he was chosen president of the Chamber of Commerce of Pittsburg, succeeding Hon. J. K. Moorehead, whose lamented death created a vacancy in this position. Mr. Dravo labored with a single eye to the advancement of the commercial interests of the city. With a solicitude born of a thorough knowledge of the subject, he labored incessantly for years to secure needed improvements in the Monongahela Valley, and along the Ohio River. He wrote and spoke in favor of the work on any and all occasions. His letters and speeches referring to this subject alone, if published, would make a good sized volume. No small share of his efforts was put forth at the national capital, whither he was repeatedly sent to represent and defend the cause of his fellow citizens. Master of the
situation, and arguing his favorite measure with great earnestness, he made a profound impression on the House Committee on Rivers and Harbors, and secured substantial recognition of his claims and demands, gaining many advantages which a less enthusiastic advocate might have failed to obtain.
Mr. Dravo's earlier political efforts were in opposition to slavery ; this institution he opposed on principle, and he loudly denounced it, in season and out of season, in accordance with the manner of the anti-slavery advocates of those days. He polled his first vote as a "Henry Clay" Whig, and an avowed enemy of slavery. In 1848, he was nominated in Allegheny county as a candidate for the state legislature by the supporters of the Buffalo platform adopted at Utica, N. Y., June 22, 1848, who had for their motto "Free Men." Prominent and active among clear seeing and resolute citizens who radically severed their connections with the old parties for the sake of principle, Mr. Dravo stood, and worked in harmony with the movement which culminated, in his state, in the virtual organization of the Republican party, at the Lafayette Hall convention in Pittsburg, February 22, 1854. When the party sprang full-fledged into the field in 1856, Mr. Dravo was at once acknowledged a leader, and has since never forsaken its cause. In that and all subsequent political campaigns his splendid oratorical powers have assisted materially in the support of the party's principles, and the vigor with which he has carried on his work, together with his unflinching adherence to themen and measures of the party, have earned for him the title of "Stalwart."
Few political orators equal Mr. Dravo in the open discussion of the finance or tariff question of our nation, and although these are his chief themes of late, he has abundant information and an eloquent vocabulary always on hand to suit any occasion. A beautiful illustration of this was afforded in his address on the death of General Grant, pronounced July 25, 1885, at the memorial services held at Beaver Falls, and also at a special meeting of the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce, held July 23, 1885, for the express purpose of taking suitable action in view of the nation's great loss. Calling the meeting to order, President Dravo said: "The sad intelligence of General Grant's death has made it necessary that this Chamber should be convened that appropriate action may be had, touching an event of national import. I do not use extravagant language when I say the most eminent citizen of the Republic has passed away, and the people are moved to the expression of sorrow at the death of him who, when living, they delighted so much to honor. General Grant's record is emblazoned on every page of our country's history for the past quarter of a century. In health, on the battlefield, he proved himself the greatest commander of the age; in civil life he was crowned by a grateful people, with the highest honors; and as president of the United States, he displayed the sterling virtues of integrity and unswerving devotion to the best interests of the nation he did so much to serve; in sickness, long continued and marked by extreme suffering, he evinced a patience and charity befitting the closing scenes of an illustrious life. It is for this Chamber to take such action as you in your wisdom may deem most appropriate."
One of the secrets of Mr. Dravo's power of oratory is that he speaks from the heart, and by his own earnestness and enthusiasm sways the emotions of his hearers and seldom fails to carry conviction. Although a hearty advocate and supporter of his favorite cause, he declined to appear as a candidate for office. Notwithstanding this fact, in 1886, he was made the Republican nominee for the state legislature to represent Beaver county, Pa., in which he resides, and having almost universal indorsement, he was elected. His talents and abilities found immediate recognition at Harrisburg by his appointment on the committees of "ways and means" and "constitutional reforms," two of the most important committees of the legislature. Serving as secretary of both, and as a warm friend of temperance reform, he introduced the "Constitutional Prohibitory Amendment," which was successfully passed. He likewise made an eloquent speech nominating Col. Matthew Stan-ley Quay for U. S: Senator.
In 1881, our subject's name was brought forward by his party friends as a candidate for the office of collector of customs, and surveyor of the port of Pittsburg, and he was appointed to that office by President Garfield. At that time, the senate was not unanimous in the matter of appointments, and there was some delay in confirming his nomination. At this juncture, the political strength and great popularity of Mr. Dravo were emphatically demonstrated by unanimous voice. The business men of Pittsburg, without regard to party views, demanded his confirmation, and the entire press of Beaver county supported the demand, and was loud in its praise of his fitness and qualifications for the position. On all sides and frequently from the most unexpected sources, came warm advocacy of his claims. These appeals were sufficiently powerful to overcome all opposition, and his appointment was confirmed by the senate May 2o, 1881, when he was duly commissioned. His services as collector covered a period of four years, which was marked by a most efficient and capable administration of that office. Upon the accession of a Democratic administration, Mr. Dravo resigned. In the business life of Pittsburg, he has been for many years a conspicuous and honored factor, and has frequently lent his personal and material aid towards building up the city institutions. Our subject is a descendant of Anthony Dravo, whose original name was Anthony Dreaveau.
Anthony Dravo, grandfather of our subject, was one of the early settlers of Pittsburg. He came from France over a century ago under the following interesting circumstances. In 1789, the year the Bastile fell, the Marquis De Lussiere was the owner of a beautiful estate in one of the suburbs of the city of Paris. There lived with him a young florist, who had so gained his confidence, that he was looked upon as a confidential friend and companion. At the be-ginning of that terrible chapter of history known as the French Revolution, the Marquis and his young friend whose name was Dreaveau, sought refuge in America. In the Monongahela Valley opposite the mouth of Turtle Creek, and in full view of the scenes where Washington had won his fame as a soldier, De Lussiere, with the aid of his faithful friend, made for himself a home and surrounded it with things of beauty, a faint re-minder of the loved estate from which a cruel fate had driven them. This home, built by the French marquis, is known as Hamilton Hall, and has since been the property of the Von Bonnhorsts, Swartwelders, Riddles, and others.
The young friend who stood by the Marquis in the great crisis of his life, and accompanied him over the sea in 1794, located in the village of Pittsburg, Pa., and is now called the pioneer florist. The garden of Anthony Dravo just outside of Fort Pitt, purchased from Gen. O'Hara, quarter-master of that fort, occupied one-half of the square of what is now the central business portion of the city. There for many years, our subject's grandfather pursued his calling, for which both training and taste had peculiarly fitted him. When this country was in its "teens" there was no other spot in Pittsburg so pretty and attractive as. Dravo's flower and fruit gar-den on Hay street, extending from Pennsylvania to Liberty streets. In those early days, Anthony Dravo was authority on all thingspertaining to flower or fruit culture. The florist was never happier than when entertaining visitors from his native France. Many noblemen from that country were entertained in the Dravo home, bringing letters of introduction from the Marquis De Lussiere to his Pittsburg friend. When Lafayette visited the city, he went to greet the friend of his friend, and talk over with him the scenes both had witnessed in Paris, a generation before.
With the growth of Pittsburg industries called for the grounds he occupied in Liberty street. Anthony Dravo purchased larger grounds at East Liberty, and there his business flourished until his death, nearly halt a century ago. Michael Dravo, father of our subject, was the eldest son of Anthony Dravo. He was born at Pittsburg and was united in marriage with Mary Fleming, a daughter of John Fleming, Sr. After marriage, the young folks settled in Westmoreland county, Pa., where our subject was born, but later in life they returned to Pittsburg and lived to a good old age.
In 1868, our subject went to Beaver county and purchased a home on First street, overlooking the Ohio River, and its beautiful scenery. In 1891, this home was destroyed by fire, but was replaced by a handsome modern home of stone and brick. November 23, 1843, Mr. Dravo was united in marriage with Eliza Jane Clark, an accomplished daughter of Robert and Margaret Clark of Allegheny county, with whom he has spent over half a century. Ten children have been born to them, namely : Cassius M. Clay, born in 1844, and died in 1845 ; Margaret J., born January 2, 1846, who is the widow of Robert Wilson and resides with her parents; Josephine M., born June 5, 1848, who was joined in marriage with J. H. McCreery, a prominent attorney of Beaver, and is the parent of the following children,-John D., Thomas, Mary, Caryl, and Vankirk; Mary Emma, born in 1851, and died in 1869; Annie Maria, born 1854, and died the same year ; Ida Clark, born 1858, and died in 1861 ; John S., who was born March 9, 1861, is a prominent oil dealer, and wedded Sadie McClerg, who bore him one child, Eliza J.; Lida, who is at home; and Etta S., who was born March 30, 1865, and died in 1888.
John S. Dravo and his family are consistent and active members of the M. E. church, of which denomination Mr. Dravo has been a member since he attained the age of eighteen years. He was also Sabbath School superintendent, and has been a local preacher for many years. He is beloved and respected by all who know him and his relations in and out of the family are what all good and honest men endeavor to sustain, in order to make their lives above reproach or criticism.
Stephen P. and Dan H. STONE, JR.
STEPHEN P. and DAN H. STONE, Jr., prominent and progressive business men of Beaver, Pa., whose portraits accompany this sketch, are scions of one of the pioneer families of Beaver
county. The family was established here when this section of the state was little
more than a wilderness, principally inhabited by the Indian race, and infested by beasts of the forest. This region has furnished good, substantial men to the community, who have zealously promoted the rapid growth and development of the country.
Stephen P. Stone, grandfather of the gentlemen named above, was born in Derby, Conn., April 21, 1759, and was for some years a sea captain. In 1804, he went to Western Pennsylvania where he purchased twenty-four hundred acres of land for $1,200, it being located in Franklin and Marion townships, Beaver county. He returned to his native state for his family, and incidentally disposed of one-half of his purchase at $1 per acre,-thus paying for the whole. He established a home in Marion township and erected a set of log buildings, which included a house, store and barn. It became known as the "Stone place," and is now owned by J. D. Boots. He next built a large eight-room brick house, with spacious and convenient rooms, and this was considered the finest residence in the township. It is still standing and in good condition,-being owned by Mrs. Mary A. Leyda. He subsequently purchased a large tract of land where Harmony is now situated, and in 1805 bought the point of land lying north of the Beaver and Ohio rivers, known since as Stone's Point. He built a residence there, now belonging to August Myers, and established a landing and warehouse for supply boats,-both being swept away in the flood of 1832. He also kept a tavern there, mainly for the accommodation of boatmen. He purchased pig iron from the Bassenhem furnace,-it being delivered by wagon and shipped on keel boats, for it was before the day of railroads and steamboats. These boats were "poled" up the river by men, or drawn by horse where they could be; and were carried down the river by the current to the different ports.. Upon reaching their destination many of the boats were sold, and the men, who had received fifty cents per day for their work, were compelled to walk home. The boats not sold were stocked with various kinds of goods, and "poled" up stream again. Mr. Stone continued at this branch of work all of his life, and was a very prosperous man. He died in the last residence which he built (now owned by the heirs of Margaret Davidson), on October 2, 1839. Religiously, he was a member of the Episcopal church. He was first joined in wedlock with Caty Hull, January 5, 1795, and they had nine children, namely: Stephen; Eliza, who married Elihu Evans; Mary J., the wife of Joseph McCombs; Dan H.; Sherlock; Charles; Catherine, the wife of Henry W. Smith; Adelia; and Henry L., who died at the age of two months and one day Mrs. Stone died September 18, 1825. Mr. Stone formed a second marital union with Sarah Fuller, November 4, 1829, after he had attained the advanced age of seventy years. His widow was again married, to Samuel Colter; as a result of her second union three children were born: George H., Marshal P., and William E.
Dan H. Stone, Sr., the father ofStephen P. and Dan H., Jr., was born in Derby, Conn., September 27, 1802, but was very young when his parents removed to Pennsylvania. During his younger days he assisted his father and was charged with many duties of a very responsible nature. When but eighteen years of age, he was sent on horseback to Columbus, Ohio, to collect a bill for his father, amounting to $2,000. His first day's work for himself was in assisting to pole a boat eighteen miles, working from sunrise to the first star of evening and then walking home, - his salary being fifty cents per day. Like his ancestors he was very fond of the water, and as this was one of the principal employments of the day, he followed it for many years. Later, in connection with his brothers, Stephen and Charles, he owned and operated several steamboats, which ran to Pittsburg, Cincinnati, Louisville, and New Orleans. They had the contract for carrying the United States mail, and this yielded them large profits. Mr. Stone was very successful and accumulated considerable wealth; before the war he disposed of his interest in the business. Having inherited a portion of the old homestead in Marion township, he built saw mills and engaged very extensively in lumbering. His business was injured largely by the panic of 1873, and as he was of a generous nature, he gave assistance to others, which almost resulted in his financial ruin, and left him again a poor man. His health failed and he died on March 25, 1879. July 14, 1853 was the date of his marriage to Mary Patterson, a daughter of James Patterson, who was an early settler of Beaver county and a resident of Beaver Falls,-then known as Brighton. She was born November 5, 1830, and is still living at Beaver, and enjoying the best of health. Their union resulted in the birth of seven children, as follows : Stephen P. ; Elizabeth, the widow of D. F. Robinson; Dan H., Jr.; James P., who is engaged in the real estate business in Beaver Falls; Mary J.; Charles H.; and Sally P., a resident of Beaver.
Stephen P. Stone was born in Beaver, Beaver county, Pa., September 17, 1854, and attended the public schools and Beaver Academy, but as his father had met with reverses, he was obliged to seek work at an early age. He entered a saw mill when fourteen years old, and from then until 1877 he did whatever work he happened to find. He was very ambitious and applied himself with a will, and in 1877 he received the appointment of deputy prothonotary of Beaver county. He gave satisfaction, and was elected prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas in 1879, serving in that capacity for six years, when he was made assistant cashier of the Beaver Deposit Bank. He was subsequently promoted to be cashier, and now discharges the duties of that responsible position. He is a man of tried business ability, is progressive and enterprising, and is held in the highest esteem by his employers and his townsmen. The Beaver Deposit Bank was established in 1871 by M. S. Quay; J. S. Rutan; D. McKinney, M. D. ; and J. R. Harrah. Mr. Quay was president, and upon his retirement, wassucceeded by S. P. Wilson. Business was first transacted in the Barkley Building, where the Buchanan Block now stands, but in July, 1887, the bank was removed to the James Allison building, where it has since been located. The subject of this sketch is one of the stockholders, and was an organizer, of the Bridgewater Gas Company of which he became treasurer; he is treasurer of the Beaver Valley Traction Company, of which he was one of the organizers, and is financially interested in the People's Electric Street Railroad Company.
On May 12, 1887, Stephen P. Stone was married to Louise M. Knox, a daughter of George W. Knox of Carlisle, Pa., a prominent, retired lawyer, of Philadelphia, and they are the parents of three children: Joseph K., born March 5, 1888; Stella Louise, born October 22, 1889; and Virginia K., born August 24, 1894. Politically, Mr. Stone is a Republican and has served as a delegate to the state convention, and on the county committee. He is a member of the Odd Fellows' lodge, of which he is a past grand; of the Masonic order, from F. & A. M. to K. T.; of the Junior Order United American Mechanics; and of the Elks. In 1887, he built a very fine residence opposite the depot, graded the lawn and set out shrubbery and fruit, making it one of the most desirable homes in the borough. It is excellently located and commands a beautiful view of the villages and mountains along the Beaver and Ohio rivers.
Dan H. Stone, Jr., was born in Beaver,Pa., September 1, 186o. He attended the public schools and the U. P. Seminary until 1875, and in January, 188o, received the appointment of deputy prothonotary under his brother, Stephen P. Stone, continuing thus for two terms of three years each. In 1885, he was elected prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas (assuming his trust in January, 1886), and was re-elected in 1888. He discharged his duties to the complete satisfaction of his constituents. During his incumbency of the office, he became desirous of entering the legal profession, and as a result, he studied law with Hon. J. M. Buchanan and Hon. M. F. Mecklem, - being admitted to the bar on September 19, 1892. Immediately after he began practicing, and by dint of hard and conscientious labor, he has established a good reputation and a large clientage. Intuitively, he applies the theoretic principles of law to the common affairs of every day life, and it is to his practical faculty that his success is mainly due. He is a stanch Republican and has been an active worker in party affairs. He has taken great interest in the progress of Beaver, and has been identified with the Beaver Valley Traction Company; was an incorporator, and, formerly, attorney, of the High River Bridge, Company; and of the People's Electric Street Railroad Company. He has been attorney for several railroads in Western Pennsylvania. Ile is a member of the Masonic lodge, and of the Odd Fellows' lodge, of which he is past grand. He owns some valuable real estate in Beaver, and is one of its most substantial citizens.
Charles H. Stone, the youngest son of Dan H. and Mary (Patterson) Stone, was born in Beaver, Pa., where he attended the public schools. He became assistant to his brother, Dan H., when the latter was prothonotary, and also studied law with him,-being admitted to the bar on December 6, 1896. He also served as assistant clerk under his brother, Stephen P., in the Beaver Deposit Bank. He is a very popular young man in the borough, and has worked up quite a lucrative practice. Fraternally, he is a member of the Knights of Pythias.
CHARLES RUNYON, manager of the Keystone Tumbler Co., of Rochester, Pa., is one of the enterprising and energetic men of that borough, and is well known throughout the county as fully worthy of the esteem in which he is held. He was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, and is a son of Philip Runyon. He came to Rochester, in 1875, and started a grocery store on New York street; this business he continued with much success for three years. He then entered the employ of the Rochester Tumbler Co., and so won the confidence of the firm that he soon worked himself up to the position of assistant manager of the plant. When the Keystone Tumbler Co. was organized, he was one of its promoters and stockholders, and was made general manager of that company. The company was organized, in 1897, and the plant was built on the site of the old Agnes brick yard on Railroad avenue. It is a three-story building, 360x110 feet, with basement, and the company employ upwards of three hundred men. They manufacture blown and pressed glass tumblers, plain and decorated. Their work is of a superior quality, and they ship direct to jobbers throughout the United States, South America, Cuba, Mexico, and Europe. Since the company's organization, they have run a night and day force, and the work has gone on steadily.
Mr. Runyon married Mary Wickham, a daughter of Jarvis Wickham, of Rochester, Pa., and they are the happy parents of three children, namely: Ethel; Laura Belle; and Charles Edwin. The subject of this sketch has been a member of the borough council for six years; and he is also a member of the I. O. O. F. He has always been a faithful attendant of the Episcopal church. Mr. Runyon has a bright future before him, as he is a young man with great determination and energy, and will make a success of anything which he undertakes.
OLIVER MOLTER, ex-sheriff, and now deputy sheriff, of Beaver county, Pa., is one of the popular and respected citizens of Beaver, where he has resided all his life. He was born in Beaver, October 15, 1841, and is a son of Jonas Christopher and Fanny (Kemp) Molter, and grandson of John Molter, who was the family emigrant from his native country. He resided in Beaver many years, but, in the "forties," he settled in Stark county, Ohio, where he spent his remaining days,-dying at the age of eighty years. He was the father of a large family of children, of whom the following grew to maturity: John; Peter; Jonas C.; Margaret, and Elizabeth.
Oliver Molter's father was a brick-maker by trade and followed that occupation during his early days, but afterward engaged in coal mining, which he continued until he was elected justice of the peace of West Bridgewater, and faithfully discharged this trust until death claimed him. His wife was Fanny Kemp, a daughter of John Kemp, of Beaver, Pa., and she died at the age of sixty-nine years. Their children were named as follows : Henry, who is now a resident of Missouri; Peter J., deceased; Christopher, who resides in Chicago, Ill.; Oliver, whose name heads this brief memoir; Margaret, who is the wife of Thornton Harn, of Bridgewater, Pa.; Fanny, who is deceased; Mary, who was wedded to J. Kaszer, of Rochester; Eliza, who is the wife of James Olcott; and Martin L., who is a prominent citizen of New Brighton.
Oliver Molter was intellectually trained in the public schools, and in the academy at Beaver; starting out in life, he was employed at coaling and canaling, which occupations he continued until August, 1864, when he enlisted in Company B, 204th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf. On the termination of the war, he returned home and became the owner of several mines, which he operated for several years; in 1877, he opened a fine livery stable in New Brighton; he has since greatly enlarged this until it is now one of the best and most completely equipped in the county. His son is now in charge of the stable.
Mr. Molter first wedded Margaret B. Parris, a daughter of J. P. Parris, and she passed from this life aged fifty-six years. This union resulted in the birth of four children: William, deceased; Nora and Ida,-twins,-the former being the wife of E. O. Lindsey of New Brighton, and the latter, of Dr. Z. C. Laberge; and Frank, who married Edith Smith. The second union of Mr. Molter was with Ada Laney, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Laney, and they were blessed by the following children: James, who married Christina Hair; Grace, who is the wife of Harry Lockhart; Bertha; Herbert; and Ralph. Mr. Molter is a strong Republican and has served as school director, assessor, and in the town council. He is president of the Beaver Signal Manufacturing Company. Socially, he is a member of the F. & A. M.; K. of P.; Elks; A. O. U. W., and the Senior Order of United American Mechanics. In religious views, he is a Methodist. His portrait accompanies the foregoing account of his life.
ULYSSES S. STROUSS, M. D., one of the most active and energetic physicians and surgeons of Beaver, Pa., where his name is identified with many enterprises of magnitude and note, has been actively engaged in his profession at that place alone since 1884. Dr. Strouss was born in Hanover township, June 5, 1848, and was reared on a farm, thoroughly learning what constitutes a day's work. In gaining an education, he was ably assisted by his father, who, after sending him to the public school, considered him able to "hoe his own row." Later, Ulysses took a finishing course at Mansfield Academy, and after graduating therefrom, he engaged in teaching school, being then only seventeen years of age.
But our subject was not content with that profession, but had higher aspirations in life. He desired to fit himself for the medical profession, and studied medicine under the preceptorship of Dr. R. L. Walker of Mansfield, while teaching school at that place. Later, he continued his studies in the office of Dr. C. McConnell of Service, and afterward entered the medical department of the Western Reserve College of Cleveland, Ohio. Entering this college in 1870, he graduated therefrom in the class of 1872, and began the practice of his chosen profession with Dr. R. A. Moon at Hookstown, continuing there until 1874. At that time, he made a change of location, by going to Fairview, where he succeeded in building up a large and remunerative practice. He remained there until 1884, when he sold out his business interests in that place to Dr. J. S. Louthan. Dr. Strauss had gained more confidence in his own ability and skill by this time, and now looked about for a larger field. He found his heart's desire at Beaver, one of the most beautiful boroughs of Western Pennsylvania, and located there shortly after leaving Fairview. From the beginning of his practice in Beaver, his knowledge and skill, his promptness and strict attention to business gained for him the respect and confidence of the people in general. His patronage has increased to such dimensions that its requirements can only be met by working early and late. Upon locating in Beaver in 1884, Dr. Strouss purchased a residence and office at the corner of Third and Beaver streets, also buying the land and building adjoining on Beaver street. In 1892, he purchased his present residence on the corner of Beaver and Turnpike streets. He built a business block on Third street, which he rented, and has at different times sold lots from his land, until now that portion of the borough is covered with beautiful residences occupied and owned by some of the best people of Beaver. He has also built other houses in different parts of the town.
Although Dr. Strouss is a close student and keeps himself up-to-date in his profession, he has not been indifferent or idle as to the progress of his adopted home. Rather it may be said that he has been actively and financially interested in many enterprises worthy of note (luring the last fifteen years in Beaver. He was one of the original stockholders of the Beaver National Bank, and is one of its directors; he is also a stockholder of the Rochester Electric Light Company ; a stockholder and director of the Beaver Loan Association, and a stockholder in various other enterprises. He served as U. S. pension examiner under Cleveland's administration, and is a valued member of the Beaver County Medical Society. Socially, he is a member and past master of St. James Lodge, No. 457. F. & A. M. ; of Eureka Chapter, No. 167, R. A. M.; Pittsburg Commandery No. 1, K. T.; Syria Temple, A. A. O. N. M.. S., besides which he is district deputy grand master of the Thirty-seventh District, and also a member of the Royal Arcanum.
In 1870, Dr. Strouss was united in marriage with Esther M. Hartford, a daughter of James M. Hartford of South Beaver township, Beaver county, where he was known as a leading and progressive farmer. Two children, both daughters, have been born to our subject and his wife: Jane M., a graduate of Millersville State Normal School, and Martha E. Both are accomplished young ladies, and are still at home, where they entertain their many friends frequently in a truly hospitable manner. In the beginning of the present year, Dr. Strouss enlarged his residence, adding a fine commodious office and an attractive reception room. Previous to this improvement the Doctor's office was on the corner of Third and Beaver streets. Dr. Strouss is a son of the late David and Emily (Woodrough) Strouss and grandson of John Strouss.
J ohn Strouss was born in Germany and with his two brothers came to America. where they all became American citizens. John Strouss settled in Lancaster county, Pa., but subsequently purchased a farm near Clinton, in Allegheny county, where he lived until the time of his death. He was known as a very progressive farmer, and owned considerable property. John Strouss erected a flouring or grist mill upon a farm known as the Potato Garden. He was a practical farmer and went west in search of wheat land; instead of buying near Allegheny City, which was then only a small village, he sought land on a higher elevation and away from the river and fog. Here upon this farm, he lived happily and attained the advanced age of ninety-six years. He was thrice married. The name of his first wife is not known, but her children were: Jonas, John, David, Simon, Hannah, Martha, Elizabeth, and Mary. Sometime after the death of his first wife, Mr. Strouss wedded Mrs. McCoy, who bore him three sons: William, James, and Henry. After the death of his second wife, Mr. Strouss again felt the need of a companion, and was joined in wedlock with Ann Cloud,-there being no issue to this union.
David Strouss, father of our subject, was born in Allegheny county, Pa., and when grown to manhood, conducted his father's mill and also learned the tanner's trade, which was one of the best trades in practical use in his day. He leased Hood's tannery in Allegheny county, which he operated for some time, but, later, leased a tannery in Washing-ton county. After running that very successfully for years, and accumulating some capital, Mr. Strouss discontinued working at his trade, and invested some of his surplus cash in a farm situated in Hanover township, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. This farm is today owned by his sons, William and David M. Besides this farm, David Strouss owned other farming property. He was a man of sterling qualities and knew the value of every cent; he arose at break of day and all his children were on hand, also, to accomplish a good day's work. His motto was "strike while the iron is hot,"-and everything was done by rule and in due time. In this way, progress was the natural result. Although he was ambitious, Mr. Strouss was also kind and charitable, and he was respected and looked upon as an exceedingly careful, prudent, industrious, and worthy man, whose life is quite worthy of imitation. At the age of sixty-six years, he took down the gun which always hung over the door, with the intention of cleaning it for the purpose of protecting his sheep from the ravages of dogs. As the gun had not been used in a long time, it was not supposed to be loaded. Mr. Strouss raised the hammer and blew in the gun, when it was discharged into his face, causing his death,-a sad ending to a noble life. How many sad accidents occur in exactly the same way!
His life companion was Emily Woodrough, of English ancestry. She survives her husband, having attained the advanced age of four score years and six. They reared eleven children, viz.: John W., now deceased; Elizabeth, widow of J. R. McKinzie; Josiah, also deceased; William J., residing on the homestead farm; Jane, deceased; Junius, who was killed in the Civil War while fighting for our country; Martha (deceased), wife of William Keefer; Melissa, wife of C. Swearengen; Ulysses S., subject of this sketch; Mary, wife of George Henderson; and David, also residing on the homestead.
The subject of our sketch and his family are consistent and valued members of the Presbyterian church, working willingly in behalf of its interests, and ever giving liberally 0f their means. In business circles, the name of Dr. Strouss stands exceedingly high all over the county. At home as a citizen, no one is more popular or has more friends.
GEORGE DAVIDSON, a recent portrait of whom appears on the foregoing page, is a man of much prominence in the borough of New Brighton, Pa., and since February, 1888, he has been cashier of the National Bank, of that place. This institution is one of the most progressive and substantial banks in Western Pennsylvania, having been organized October 29, 1884, to
succeed the old National Bank of Beaver County, which had its origin November 12,
1864, as the successor of the Bank of Beaver County, a state institution established in 1857.
The last named concern occupied the quarters of the late United States Bank, and its offices
were situated where Dr. Simpson's are now located. Its officers were: S. Merrick,
president and E. Hoops, cashier. On November 12, 1864, the National Bank of Beaver
County was chartered with a capital of $200,000; a fine brick block was erected, the front
of which was of pressed brick, purchased in Philadelphia at $100 per thousand, it being
the first brick of the kind ever used in the Beaver Valley. The building was of three stories; on the first floor were the bank offices; while on the second and third floors were dwelling rooms. The banking apartments were finished in the best of material, and had two large safes. S. Merrick, who was its first president, was later succeeded by John Miner, and upon the organization of the National Bank of New Brighton, M. T. Kennedy was made president, serving until his death, in November, 1884, when John Reeves became his successor. In August, 1893, Robert S. Kennedy was chosen president and C. C. Townsend, vice-president, to succeed Robert S. Kennedy. From the time the bank was organized until April 6, 1883, Mr. Ed-ward Hoops served as cashier; he was succeeded by C. M. Merrick, who in turn was succeeded by the subject hereof. H. R. Ross is teller, and Clarence E. Kennedy is bookkeeper. The officers of this organization are among the most prominent and capable men in this part of the state, possessing high business ability, and being fully competent to fill the important positions they hold.
George Davidson was born in Fayette county, Pa., October 13, 1859, and is a son of Daniel R. Davidson. At the age of eight years, his parents moved to Beaver, Beaver county, Pa., and there he obtained his primary education; he afterwards attended college in West Virginia from 1877 to 188o. Owing to ill-health, he spent several years in traveling through the western states, and, upon his return to Beaver county, became deputy prothonotary under Dan H. Stone. On leaving this position, he entered the National Bank of New Brighton, as cashier, which office he now holds. Mr. Davidson is greatly interested in the progress of his adopted borough and county, and is ever ready to give his support to those measures which, in his opinion, tend to promote the welfare of the community. His popularity and sterling worth are shown by the fact that he is now serving his sixth term as treasurer of New Brighton, and is manager of the clearing house of the associated banks of Beaver county, which association he helped to form.
The subject of this record married Mary Wilson, daughter of Samuel B. Wilson, a prominent resident of Beaver, and this union has been blessed by the birth of the following children: Daniel R.; Samuel K.; Elizabeth; Margaret; William, and Mary,-the two last named being deceased. Mr. Davidson owns a beautiful home on the corner of Third avenue and Fifteenth street.
JOHN BURTON ARMSTRONG, M. D., ranks among the leading physicians and surgeons of Beaver county, Pa., having been actively engaged in the practice of medicine in Beaver since 1893. His
strict attention to his professional duties, as well as his peculiar success in treating many
difficult cases, have brought him into prominence in the best families of the vicinity, in
addition to which he has many patients in the surrounding counties. Being a man of iron nerve and ambitious spirit, he delights in keeping abreast of the times in his profession, and thus is prepared to grasp the most complicated cases and treat them according to the best and most modern methods. It is said that some very critical cases have been attended by Dr. Armstrong with marked success.
The Doctor also has quite a large office practice. His office, which is in close proximity to his residence on West Third street, is often filled to overflowing with patients awaiting their turn in the consultation room. Dr. Armstrong is of Scotch ancestry, and was born in Brighton township, Beaver county, within one mile of Beaver, on January 15, 1868. After attending the district school, he completed a high school course at Beaver, chose medicine as his profession, and endeavored to fit himself by becoming a medical student under Dr. Jas. McCann of Pittsburg. He then attended the Western Pennsylvania University (now known as the Medical Department of Western University), from which he graduated in March, 1891. Soon after graduation, he practiced his profession for a year at Allegheny City, for a short time at New Kensington, Westmoreland county, and at Rochester, Pa., for one year. Although his success was encouraging considering the short duration of his stay in each of the above places, neither location suited him, and he looked about for another locality where he could settle permanently. His thoughts naturally reverted to the homeof his youth, in close proximity to which was the beautiful little borough of Beaver, which he always admired and where he had many acquaintances and friends. After deliberating for some time, he decided to locate in Beaver, and his success has been even greater than he anticipated, thus proving the wisdom of his selection.
Dr. Armstrong wooed and won for his wife, Anna Mary Fraser, an accomplished daughter of Alexander Fraser. The Doctor and his estimable spouse have one son, a bright little boy, born January 6, 1895, and named John Alexander, in honor of both his maternal and paternal grandfathers. The subject of our sketch is a zealous Republican and has served as school director in the borough. He is also a member of the F. & A. M. lodge, and of the Knights of Pythias. Both he and Mrs. Armstrong are active communicants of the M. E. church, of which the Doctor is now steward.
Dr. Armstrong is a son of John and Isabella Margaret (Adams) Armstrong, grandson of John and Nellie (Dillon) Armstrong, and great-grandson of John Armstrong, who was born in the eastern part of the Keystone State, probably in Chester county, or in Philadelphia. Tradition tells us that the family originated in Scotland, and belonged to the old Scotch Presbyterians. The founder of the American branch of the family came to America from the north of Scotland previous t0 the year 1800. The grandfather of Dr. Armstrong crossed the mountains of Central Pennsylvania and settled in Alleghenycounty, in 1805. In addition to this information little is known of him except that he followed the occupation of a farmer, and his remains lie buried in the Concord churchyard near Baden, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. He was one of four sons, whose names are : John ; Samuel and James, who both died single; and Robert.
John Armstrong, the grandfather of our subject, was born in Chester county, Pa., in the year 1800; when but five years of age, he was brought by his parents to Beaver county, Pennsylvania. He was reared on a farm, and spent his life following that occupation on farms near Darlington and Baden, where his death occurred at about the age of fifty years. His wife, whose maiden name was Nellie Dillon, lived until she had passed her eightieth mile-stone. Their children were: John, the Doctor's father; Samuel, now deceased; Ruth, wife of Daniel Emerick of Ogle, Pa.; Esther, deceased ; and Mary, also deceased.
John Armstrong, father of the subject of our narrative, was born August 27, 1831, near Greersburg (now Darlington) Beaver county, Pennsylvania. Early in life, he learned the shoemaker's trade, and began working at it on the old homestead. But that occupation was not congenial to him; his active mind and equally active body required the broader field of business pursuits. He abandoned shoemaking and went to Warren county, near Tidioute, where for seven years he was interested in the lumber business. During that time, he accumulated a small capital, which he desired to invest wisely. With keen fore-
sight he purchased a tract of land along the Allegheny River, at Henry's Bend, near Oil City, paying for the tract $45o of hardearned cash. Upon this land he carried on farming until oil was discovered in that vicinity. The first oil well drilled on the banks of the Allegheny River was on his farm, and, while the excitement was at its height, Mr. Armstrong sold the farm for the fabulous price of $31,000. After dealing in oil for some time, he retired to Rochester, Pa., and, soon after, purchased the Jackson farm, near Beaver, containing 105 acres of choice farming land, upon which he has enjoyed a happy life as one of Beaver county's prominent farmers. He has made many improvements on his land, and has built handsome and substantial buildings. In 1898, his large barn, with contents, was completely destroyed by fire, but it was re-built as soon as possible.
Mr. Armstrong is a public-spirited man, a stanch Republican, and has served as supervisor and school director. He was joined in wedlock with Isabella Margaret Adams, a daughter of John and Jeannette Adams, who formerly resided in Northumberland county, Pa., and removed later to Parkersburg. Mrs. Armstrong was born March 26, 1841; she bore her husband the following children: Calantha Abigail, still single; Jeannette, wife of Dr. J. J. Allen of Monaca, Pa.; Annie M., deceased; John Burton, to whom this sketch pertains and who is commonly known as "J. Burt Armstrong"; and Vienna Isabella.
Alexander Fraser, father-in-law of our subject, was born January i, 1840, near Inverness, Scotland. He is a son of Alexander Fraser, who was descended from Scotch', nobility, and came to America with his wife, Mary, and his family, in 1845,-settling in the Scotch settlement near Wellsville, Ohio. There he followed, for many years, the occupation of a farmer, and is now enjoying the ripe old age of eighty-seven years. He was deprived of his wife and beloved companion, however, who died at about the age of seventy years. They came to America on a sailing vessel which was six weeks in crossing the ocean; they landed at New York City, taking the tedious route to Ohio by way of Hudson River, Erie Canal, and Lake Erie. Although a true Scotchman, "Grandpa" Fraser loves America. To him and his worthy consort were born ten children, seven of whom grew to maturity, namely: Alexander, Jr.; William; Margaret; Isabella; Hannah; Mary; and Jeannette.
Alexander Fraser, Jr., arrived at manhood just in time to respond to our country's call for brave men during the Civil War. He enlisted from Wellsville, Ohio, in the 3rd Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf. and, later, re-enlisted in the navy and went down the river from Pittsburg, serving until the close of the war, and receiving an honorable discharge at New York City. After the war, for a period of twenty-five years, Mr. Fraser served as baggage master on the Pennsylvania Railroad. During the repair of that road, his train was sent over the Fort Wayne R. R. through Alliance, and at Wellsville, Ohio, his home, terrible collision occurred, in which Mr. Fraser was so badly injured that he died the same evening, October 17, 1893. He left a wife and six children to mourn his unfortunate demise; Mrs. Fraser was, before marriage, Miss Emma Hayes, a daughter of Thomas C. Hayes. She was born in old Brighton, now Beaver Falls. The names of their children are: Annie M., wife of our subject; Margaret H., now deceased ; Charles W.; Chauncey M.; Grace E., deceased; and Alexander D.
GEORGE M. HEMPHILL. The
gentleman whose name heads this sketch is the efficient and well-known postmaster of Bridgewater, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. He was born in Rochester, Beaver county, and is a son of Captain Sharp and Abbie (Bloss) Hemphill.
The great-grandfather, Moses Hemphill, was born in Northampton county, Pa,. of English ancestry. His life was spent in his native county, and he reared: Joseph, James, Thomas, Mrs. Kerr, and Mrs. Nogle. The grandfather of George M., Joseph Hemphill, was born in Northampton county, and became a civil engineer and surveyor. Before the year 1800, he went to Beaver county, Pa., and became one of the commissioners to form Beaver county. He served as associate judge, county treasurer, and county commissioner, and the first surveys and deeds of Beaver county were signed by him. He kept a general store in Beaver county, and was wellknown throughout its limits. His death occurred in 1834, at the age of sixty-two, and his wife, who was formerly Jean Hay, died at the age of seventy-seven. They were both buried in Beaver county. Their children were as follows: James W.; Cynthia, who married Dr. Smith Cunningham ; Jane, who married John English; Nancy, who married Samuel R. Dunlap; Thomas; Ellen, who married Alex Scott; Mary, who married Joseph Moorehead; Margaret, who married Thomas Cunningham; and Captain Sharp, the father of the subject of this sketch.
Captain Sharp Hemphill was born in Beaver county, in the town of Beaver, and was educated in the old Beaver Academy. For a short time, he was interested in mercantile business, and then he went on the Ohio River as a steamboat clerk. He continued work on the river for forty-five years, and was, for many years, captain of steamboats running from Pittsburg to New Orleans, and also from St. Louis to Fort Benton. Often, in the pioneer days, when he was on the Missouri River, the boats were shot at by Indians. He served in the 101st Reg. of Pa. Vol., in the reserve corps, and was a Mason. He became paralyzed in his later life, and died at his home in Bridgewater, Pa., at the age of seventy-two. He married Abbie Bloss, a daughter of Chester W. Bloss, of Peacham, Vt., and she is still living at the age of seventy-two. The children which resulted from this union are as follows : Emma, who married John Coleman, of Bridgewater, Pa.; George M., the subject of this sketch; Clarence, a glass worker at Rochester, Pa.; Jean, deputy postmistress of Bridgewater, Pa. ; Mary; Joseph, who married Annie Brunell, and lives in Pittsburg,-having two children,-Grace and Edith: Alice, who married John Thornely, of Beaver Falls, and has two children,-Arthur and Mildred; and Edith, who married H. B. Twitmyer, of Pittsburg.
George Hemphill, the subject of this biography, attended the schools of Rochester, Pa., and was employed at glass houses in Rochester and Monaca for nineteen years. He also spent several years on the river, and has been engaged in various occupations. He settled in Bridgewater, and June 1, 1897, was selected as postmaster to succeed L. F. Weyman. Mr. Hemphill is a member of the K. of P. He is well known in the vicinity, and takes an active interest in all affairs which are for the good of the community.
ROBERT B. ROSE. It is always of great interest to trace various industries from their beginning to the status existing at the present day. This is true of transportation on the rivers, for, before railroads came into existence, this was the principal means of carrying produce from the
fields of operation to the points 0f disposition. In the first instance, rudely constructed boats served the purpose of the pioneer settlers of Western Pennsylvania, as it was the only way in which they could send the lumber cleared from their, lands to a market. Next in use
were the flat and keel boats, which, laden with produce, were floated down the river. Up to this time all transportation had been attended with great difficulties, but soon the invention of Robert Fulton, which excited the wonder of the entire civilized world, was put to a practical test on the Ohio River. Steam barges were built and also steam packets, which pushed boats up stream, that formerly being done by hand, with long poles. When the steamboat plied up and down the river, it was thought that facilities for traffic were complete, but this, in turn, has been partially superseded by the iron horse, owing to its great expedition. Nevertheless the steamboats are still extensively used for the transportation of freight, for they have attained a high rate of speed and are enabled to transport material at a much less cost than railroads. Among the prominent residents of Western Pennsylvania is an interesting and influential class of people, composed of men who have spent years of their lives as boatmen on the river. Robert B. Rose, one of the most enterprising business men of Rochester, Beaver county, Pa., is one of these. He is the proprietor of the Rochester wharfboat, and also deals largely in eggs, poultry, grain, etc.
Mr. Rose was born in Adams county, Ohio, and is a son of Smith Rose, who was at one time a merchant, but later became a steamboat agent at Rome, Ohio, continuing thus until his death. The subject of our sketch passed his early life in his native state, and at an early age was employed at work on the river, which he has always followed. He first found employment at Rome, Ohio, when he purchased his first wharfboat; disposing of that, he moved to Vanceburg, Ky., where he purchased another. He gained a wide knowledge of the boat business, and, being of an industrious nature, continued to better his condition. He removed to Rochester, Beaver county, Pa., and there bought the property and wharfboat of George Lukens. This was the first boat operated at Rochester, being originally owned and run by John Mc-Dowell, who disposed of it to Mr. Lukens and his son. When Mr. Rose purchased the business of George Lukens, the boat had become too old to use and he sold it; he then bought another which he continued to use until 1891, when he built one of the finest wharfboats on the Ohio River. It is 158 feet long, 32 feet wide, and has a capacity of about 500 tons. On the second floor is a suite of seven fine rooms, and on the first floor is a large office and waiting room and the storage space. The borough of Rochester has never made any effort to improve the landing there, and much could be done to further the enterprise of river shipments, which would result in much benefit to the borough itself. Our subject has his boat so arranged that it moves with the rise and fall of the river, which varies over thirty feet,-the landing being on Water street at the foot of James street. Mr. Rose is prepared to give shipping rates to all points south and west, and to many points east. A large proportion of the products of the manufacturers of Rochester and other Beaver valley towns is shipped from his wharf, and it is a frequent sight to see a long string of teams and dray wagons, waiting to unload their goods. One of the most delightful trips in the central portion of the United States is on the steamers of the Ohio River, going down that river to the Mississippi, thence to New Orleans, and back. Mr. Rose is a man of pleasing personality, and his friends are almost without number.
He was united in wedlock with Elizabeth H. Blair, a daughter 0f William D. Blair, of Stout, Ohio, as the postoffice is called, though the river designation of the place is Rome. This union resulted in the birth of two children: Luella W.; and Eva Marie, who died at the age of two years.
DR. JOHN C. McCAULEY. The borough of Rochester. as regards her practitioners of medicine, is unsurpassed by any other in the state of Pennsylvania. There are located within its limits, men who have practiced for many years and who have attained far more than local distinction, being classified with the leading men of the district. Standing prominently to the front is the gentleman whose name heads these lines, a representative of the younger generation of physicians. He is young in years, but hard and continued study in a renowned medical institution, combined with a natural bent for the profession, has given him that skill which ordinarily requires years of experience to acquire. He is in high standing in Rochester, and among his large number of patients are numbered men of prominence throughout this section of the state. He is a native of Rochester, and is a son of Leander and Martha M. (Andrews) McCauley.
David McCauley, the great-grandfather of our subject, was born in County Armagh, Ireland, and lived there until his death. His wife; Jane (Corran), with her son Robert and her other children, came to America in 1819, settling in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Robert McCauley, who was the grandfather of the subject hereof, was twenty-one years of age when he came to this country. He possessed a superior education, and his vocation in life was that of an instructor, teaching in Pittsburg and in Sewickley township, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. In 1825, he purchased a farm of 25o acres in New Sewickley town-ship, which is now owned by his children, and there resided until his death at the age of seventy years. He married Mary Mitchell, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Patterson) Mitchell, who died at the age of eighty-two, and their children were: John; David C.; Leander; Robert P.; James; Elizabeth, the wife of James Mathews; Mary, who became the wife of Dr. S. H. Andrews; Emiline; and Martha, who married Joseph Briggs. Mr. McCauley was an active Democrat in his day, and served as assessor and in other township offices. Religiously, he was a member of the Presbyterian church.
Leander McCauley attended the public schools and Freedom academy, after which he engaged as a teacher in the schools of Beaver county and also in the state of Ohio. In 1857, he removed to Williams county, Ohio, where he purchased a saw mill, and operated it for a period of five years. He then took up carpentering and pattern making, and later carried on farming on the old homestead for twenty-one years. In 1897, he retired to the town of Rochester, where he erected him a fine home and has since lived. He married Martha M. Andrews, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Harnit) Andrews, of Enon Valley, Lawrence county, Pa., and four children were born to them, as follows: Wilfred James, who died in infancy; John C., the subject hereof ; Mary M., who died at the age of six-teen years; and E. S. H., a physician and surgeon, of Beaver. Religiously, the family are Presbyterians.
Dr. John Corran McCauley, after completing his preliminary education in the public schools, began the study of medicine with J. S. Boyd, M. D., of New Brighton, Pennsylvania. He entered into his work with characteristic energy, and in 189o was graduated from the Homeopathic Medical College, of Cleveland, fully qualified for his chosen profession. He immediately located at Rochester, where he succeeded to the practice of Dr. G. H. Smith. He has built up an extensive patronage, and enjoys the confidence and good will of his fellow-citizens to the fullest extent. In 1893, he built a fine residence in Rochester, with an office in connection. He is a member of the Beaver County Homeopathic Medical Society; the State Homeopathic Medical Society; and the American Institute of Homeopathy. He is also a member of the board of censors of the Cleveland Homeopathic Medical College. He is also on the staff of the Beaver Valley Hospital.
Dr. McCauley was united in marriage with Jennie C. Parks, a daughter of Theodore Parks, of New Sewickley township, Beaver county, and they have one child, Mary E., born March 28, 1897.
PAULUS E. KOEHLER, who owns an elegant four-story hotel in Monaca, and also has extensive real estate interests there, is a prosperous citizen of that place, where he has resided for a great many years. A portrait accompanies this biography.
Mr. Koehler was born in Prussia, April 10, 1856, where he attended the public schools. He was also a pupil of the high school, and pursued the study of theology, with the intention of becoming a missionary. He was a brilliant scholar, and gained the honors of his class, but he never took orders, as he preferred a business career. He learned the trade of a decorator of porcelain under the talented E. Schledmich, the celebrated Prussian exporter, and was with that gentleman until 1881, acquiring the highest degree of skill in his art. He then came to America, and located at East Liverpool, Ohio, and took charge of the decorating shop of George Homlichhaus, also doing contract jobs for other firms. One year later, he accepted a verygood position with the Phoenix Glass Company of Monaca, Pa., and had the honor of decorating the first piece of work ever turned out by that firm, which is the largest glass firm in the world in that line of business. Mr. Koehler built two kilns, and remained in their employ until 1884, when the factory was burned to the ground, and he then started a shop of his own in Monaca, doing work for various glass firms. He has always been a very fine work-man, and some of his productions show a perfection of finish which is hard to surpass. When the Phoenix works were rebuilt, the firm prevailed upon Mr. Koehler to accept his old position, although his business was in a flourishing way. He built the first clay kiln ever constructed for firing decorated glass, those in use previous to that time being of steel. He is a very clever and ingenious man, and made a number of discoveries which have proved of great value to him. Upon returning to the Phoenix Glass Company, he took the work on contract, and with good results. He held this position until 1897, when he gave up the business on account of failing health, after a satisfactory connection of almost twenty years.
In 1883, Mr. Koehler first began to deal in real estate, and since that time he has handled over $100,000 worth of property in Monaca. Being convinced that the borough had a bright future before it, he purchased a piece of property in 1883, and has erected several houses, all of a class which are an improvement to the town. He was one of the organizers of the Citizens' Improvement Company, which has been active in developing the interests of the community. There is a large tract of land on Dorchester Heights for manufacturing and residence sites, all nicely laid out, and in it the subject of this sketch owns twenty-one lots, individually, besides holding an interest in the company. He was also in the business of developing gas, and bought gas lands quite extensively. He owns ten acres of building lots in the borough, and is a director and local representative in the Building & Loan Association. In 1898, he built the Hotel Monaca, a fine four-story building of buff brick, and it is undoubtedly the finest in Beaver county, on the south side of the Ohio River. The interior is in keeping with the beautiful exterior, having fine, lofty rooms and offices, with appointments complete in every particular. It contains fifty large rooms, its dimensions being 86x46 feet, and is a first-class hotel, enjoying the patronage of all the high-grade transient trade. Mr. Koehler's confidence in the future of Monaca remains unshaken, and he contemplates the erection of a business block, similar in style to the hotel, imparting a metropolitan air to the town. He was active in his efforts to secure a bridge across the Ohio River, and is now a stockholder of the bridge company.
In 1876, Mr. Koehler was united in marriage with Marie Schilling, and they have nine children: Anna (Betts); Henry, a graduate of Butcher's Business College, who is a moldmaker by trade; Louisa; Otto M., a decorator, who is also a graduate 0f Butcher's Business College ; Howard; Amelia; Elsie; Edward; and Sophia. They had also four who died in infancy. Religiously, he is a liberal supporter of churches. He is a Republican in politics, and has been a member of the council since 1896 (having been re-elected in 1899), and has served on the county committee. Socially, he is quite prominent, and belongs to a number of orders. He has been grand district deputy of R. A.; past chancellor, K. of P.; a member of the Woodmen of the World ; B. P. O. E.; Syria Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S. In the Masonic Order he is a member of Rochester Lodge, No. 229; Record Chapter, No. 167; Ascalon Commandery, No. 59; and the Consistory of the Scottish Rites, No. 320.
JOHN M. KELSO, a veteran of the
Civil War, is the proprietor of one of
the finest general merchandise stores in Beaver county, and resides at New Galilee. He was born in Noblestown, Pa., August 31, 1843, and is a son of Mark and Mary (Borland) Kelso.
John Kelso, the grandfather of John M., was born in Franklin county, Pa., in 1750, and obtained his education in the East. Upon the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, he volunteered his services to the cause of Independence, and, in all, served seven years and six months, holding the rank of sergeant major when he retired from the army. He was a brave soldier and has an honorable war record. At the close of the war he removed to Allegheny county and took up a large tract of wild land, which he cleared, and upon this he erected log buildings. He married Miss McCormick, who was born in Allegheny county, and they reared six children : George ; John; Benjamin; Mark, the father of John M.; Jennie (Ormond) ; and Mary (Cook). Politically, he was a Whig. Religiously, he was a member of the Associate Reformed church. He passed to the world beyond, in the year 181o.
Mark Kelso was born in Allegheny county, Pa., in 1802, and, notwithstanding the many diffIculties he encountered, obtained a good education. He assisted his father in cultivating the farm, and upon the latter's death succeeded to the possession of the old homestead. He was a large sheep-raiser and woolgrower, and was proud of the quality of his stock. He was a Whig and later a Republican. He was a faithful member of the United Presbyterian church, and was an elder therein for years. He died in 1865, and his wife survived him many years, dying in 1889, at the age of eighty-one. His union with Mary Borland, a daughter of Matthew Borland, of Allegheny county, Pa., resulted in the following issue: Margaret (Nesbit) ; Mary A. (Woods) ; John M., the gentleman whose name heads these lines; Matthew B., who died in infancy; George H., a farmer; and Joseph A., a merchant, who, prior to his death, in 1898, was a partner of the subject of this sketch.
John M. Kelso received his mental training in the public schools of Allegheny county, and was engaged as a teacher until 1883, when he moved to the borough of New Galilee. It was a very small place at that time, there being but three stores located there, but our subject predicted its future growth, and, in partnership with his brother, Joseph A. Kelso, bought out the store of A. F. Reed. There they did business for five years, at the end of which time they bought a building of Mr. Porter. In a very short time they acquired a large and lucrative trade, and at the present time John M. Kelso is the leading merchant of the town. The building in which Le is located consists of one story, a basement and a stock room, and is without doubt one of the most completely stocked stores in Beaver county, carrying a full line of dry goods, boots and shoes, hats and caps, clothing, notions, hardware, crockery, house furnishings, jewelry, drugs, confectionery, tobacco and cigars. He is a man of great energy and enterprise, and the manner in which he caters to the wants of his customers has brought him into public favor.
John M. Kelso, fired with the patriotism of an American citizen who loves his country, enlisted, in 1864, in Company I, 112th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., near Pittsburg. After doing garrison duty around Washington, D. C., he was sent to the seat of war and took part in some of the hardest-fought battles, such as the battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, North Anna River, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Weldon Railroad, and Chapin's Farm. He was taken prisoner, and was forced to endure the tortures of Libby Prison, Belle Isle, and Salisbury, being confined in these notorious places for about six months. He was then exchanged, but the harsh treatment to which he had been subjected, and the lack of proper food, had undermined his robust constitution, and he was stricken with typhoid fever, from which he did not recover until after the close of the war.
Mr. Kelso formed a marital union with Caroline H. Imbrie, a daughter of Rev. David R. Imbrie, and a granddaughter of Rev. David Imbrie. Her great-grandfather was a native of Scotland, who came to New York City, where he remained for a short period, and then returned to his fatherland. Upon again sailing for this country, he was shipwrecked and lost most of his valuables and personal effects,-in fact, the proceeds of most of his property. He settled in Service, Pa., buying a large tract of land, which he cleared, and then erected houses and barns. He was a successful stock-raiser. He married Miss Flack, and they had two children : David ; and John, who engaged in farming, in Beaver county.
Rev. David Imbrie was educated at Canonsburg, studied for the ministry, and was licensed to preach in the Associate Reformed church. He preached for many years at Bethel, Lawrence county, Pa., and at Darlington. His death came very suddenly and in a very dramatic manner. He died one Sabbath morning as he was entering the pulpit. His son, 'Rev. David R. Imbrie, received his collegiate or theological education at Canonsburg. He was pastor of a church at New Wilmington, Pa., for more than twenty-five years, and was held in the highest esteem. He married Nancy R. Johnston, who was born in Franklin county, Pa., and they had eight children, four of whom are now living, namely : Rev. J. J., who was educated at New Wilmington and in Westminster College, is a graduate of the Allegheny Theological Seminary, and now holds two charges in Butler county; Rev. D. R., who received the same educational training as his brother, and is chaplain of the Allegheny County Workhouse; Nannie I., the wife of R. S. Clark, a well-known farmer; and Caroline H., who attended the public schools at Ottawa, Kansas, and Bridgewater Academy, Pa. She taught school for three years and was then united in marriage with the subject of this biography. They are the parents of four children : Frederick L.; George N.; Joseph A.; and Nannie I. Religiously, Mr. Kelso is a member of the U. P. church and has been an elder since 1888. He is a Republican in politics, and held the office of school director for six years.
JAMES T. CONLIN may be classed among the self-made men of Beaver county, having begun at the foot of the ladder and worked up to his present position; he is public-spirited, a man of fine business qualities, and enjoys the respect and good will of a multitude of acquaintances. He was born at Freedom, Pa., June 1, 1855, and is a son of John and Mary (Carroll) Conlin.
Mr. Conlin's parents were born near Castle Bellingham, County Louth. Ireland, and after their marriage, in 1845, they came to the United States, first locating in Baltimore, remaining there three years, and then moving to Rochester. He worked on the railroad at Freedom, Baden, and Rochester, and passed his latter days in Rochester, dying in 1881, at the age of seventy-six years. His wife died in 1876, aged fifty-five years. To them was born the following family 0f children : Margaret, who was married to M. Maloney, both of whom are now deceased ; Catherine, who is the wife of J. Gildernew, of Pittsburg; Annie, who is the widow of Charles O'Donald ; Joseph P., a resident of Alliance, Ohio, who was wedded to Miss Mary Hogan ; and James T.
When Mr. Conlin was three years of age, his parents moved to Baden and there he obtained his primary education; at twenty-one years of age, he began railroading as a section man. He was promoted next to, tie inspector, then to baggage master, and September 1, 1889, he was appointed assistant ticket agent at Rochester and July 17, 1899, was appointed ticket agent to succeed W. G. Masten,-in which capacity he is at present serving. Mr. Conlin bought a small residence on Washington street, which he later sold, and built a large house on Pinney street; in 1897, he sold the latter place to Benjamin Pfeiffer, and purchased a lot of J. J. Hoffman, on the corner of Hinds and Penn streets, where he erected a handsome dwelling, which he makes his home. Mr, Conlin is secretary of the Central Building & Loan Association; a director of the Keystone Tumbler Co., Limited; a director of the First National Bank of Rochester; and a partner in the S. M. Hervey & Company Insurance Company, the largest insurance agency in the county.
Mr. Conlin has served three terms in the council. Religiously, he is a member of the Catholic church, while socially, he belongs to the Woodmen of the World, is a member and collector of the Royal Arcanum, and has passed through all the chairs of the Elks lodge. The subject of this sketch was joined in marriage with Miss Annie Huering, a daughter of Theodore and Mary Huering, and they are the parents of five children, namely: Elizabeth; Theodore; Theodora; Mary; and James. Mrs. Huering resides in Rochester, Pennsylvania. Mr. Huering died in June, 1898, and at the time of his death, was residing in Rochester.
HENRY SEPP, whose wholesale liquor establishment is the largest and best in Western Pennsylvania, is located in Beaver Falls where he is numbered among the foremost business men. He is a son of Bernard and Martha (Hahn) Sepp, and was born in Hessen, Germany, May 27, 1849. Mr. Sepp's portrait accompanies this sketch.
The grandfather of Henry Sepp was Henry C. Sepp, a prosperous farmer living in Germany, whose father was a man of education and a surveyor by profession. The instruments by which the latter earned a livelihood are treasured heirlooms of the family. Bernard Sepp, the father of the gentleman whose name heads these lines, followed an agricultural life, owning and working a fine farm of sixty-six acres, and making a specialty of cattle raising and dairying. He married Martha Hahn, who was born and schooled in Germany, and they had five children: Conrad, a baker of Braddock; Anna M., who died in infancy; Henry, the subject of this personal history; Lizzie A. (Eppel), whose husband is a butcher at Braddock; Mary (Marx) of Chippewa township; and Adam C., deceased.
Henry Sepp received his schooling in Hessen, Germany, spending his youth on the farm. When sixteen years of age, in 1865, he came to America, locating in Allegheny, Pa., where he learned the trade of an axe polisher, accepting a position with Joseph Graff, doing work by contract. The fact that this is the only firm for which he worked in this country,-continuing with him for twenty-six years,-speaks volumes for the steadiness and perseverance of Mr. Sepp. When the concern was removed to Beaver Falls, in 1871, he accompanied it and continued in its employ until he went into the liquor business at the corner of Fifteenth street and Fourth avenue, renting a building for that purpose. He remained in that store for four years, when he erected his present building, which he has since occupied. He has one of the most complete stores and bottling plants in Western Pennsylvania, it being large and roomy, and equipped with the mostapproved machinery. The bottling and washing are done by machinery, which is driven by a gas engine, and the capacity is 200 dozen bottles per day. Next to these rooms is the large cooling room, for keeping the liquor in condition for use at all times, the plans for this room being devised by our subject. It is double-walled, and filled with paper. Next to this is the sale room, in which he has a large line of expensive liquors, including rare old wines of ancient vintage, both domestic and imported. Across the yard is another store room, a wagon shed, and stables. In fact his facilities for this line of business are unexcelled, and the business has grown to such proportions that he finds it necessary to keep three delivery wagons going at all times. Three men are employed in the bottling department, and the cooler has a capacity of two carloads. He has an extensive line of goods for medicinal purposes, in which his trade is very large. Although a man of the greatest enterprise, his honesty and conscientiousness are unquestioned, and he has refused to give credit in all cases in which he thinks it will encourage debt and shiftlessness.
Mr. Sepp was joined in the bonds of wedlock with Elizabeth Theis, who was born in Hessen, Germany, and they reared nine children: Henry, Jr.; Elizabeth, who died at the age of five years; Mary (Roy) ; William, who is assisting his father; Bertha; Lena; Katie, an accomplished musician; Eddie, who died at the age of five years; and Edna. The four youngest children are students, and contemplate entering college. In political affiliations, Mr. Sepp is a strong Republican, whilst in religious faith and fellowship, he is a member of the German Lutheran church. Fraternally, he is a member and past master of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, past chancellor of the Knights of Pythias, and a member of the German Druids.
Henry Sepp, Jr., the oldest child born to his parents, was born in Beaver county, June 22, 1871, and received his mental instruction in the public schools. He then learned the trade of a glass maker and followed that until his twenty-first year, when, after completing a course in Rand's Business College, he engaged as bookkeeper for his father. He has continued in that capacity up to the present time, and is a man of tried business qualities. When he was but thirteen years old, he began studying music, taking lessons on the violin; he is now an accomplished musician and the leader of Sepp's orchestra, one of the most favorably known musical organizations in this section of Pennsylvania. Mr. Sepp was united in marriage with Clara Stauffer, who was born in Canada and moved with her parents to "Brownstone," Michigan, where she attended school. She later moved to Beaver Falls, Pa., where she was married to the son of Henry Sepp. Henry Sepp, Jr., is an aggressive Republican, and although he has often been urged to accept office in the borough, he has uniformly declined. Religiously, he is a Lutheran. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias; Nonpareil, A. C.; and the Beaver Falls Turnverein. The residence he now occupies is a two-story frame building, adjoin-ing his father's home, which he bought in February, 1897.
ALFRED P. MARSHALL. Among the eminent lawyers of Beaver county, is the gentleman whose name appears at the opening of this brief biography. Slowly, but continuously, from a briefless attorney, he has attained, by conscientious and unremitting labor, a large and lucrative practice. As a lawyer, he is careful, painstaking and of calm, judicial temperament. His ability to grasp large and intricate problems of law, his sound judgment in business matters, and his untiring energy are some of the factors which have made him successful. He was born in Perry township, Lawrence county, Pa., May 17, 185o, and is a son of Joseph A. and grandson of James Kyle Marshall.
The father of James Kyle Marshall was a native of Ireland, and he came to this country and settled in Washington county, Pennsylvania. James Kyle Marshall was supposed to have been born on the vessel while en route for America; he lived on the farm now owned by Josiah Blythe, located in Washington county. He wedded a Miss Andover, and they reared a family of children ; those who grew to maturity were: John, James, Joseph, Nancy, Mary, Margaret, and Susanna.
Joseph A. Marshall was a native of Washington county, but spent the greater part of his life in Perry township, Lawrence county, Pa., where he was the owner of a fine farm,
which he put under a high state of cultivation. He was married to Delilah Houck, to whom was born a family of twenty children as follows : James Kyle, deceased ; Sarah, who was wedded to J. W. Hyde; Jonathan D., who is a farmer in Franklin township, Beaver county; William B., deceased; John C., who is a farmer in Butler county; Rebecca, who is the wife of A. L. Vangorder; Amanda; Lina A., who wedded W. I. Scott; Lucinda, who is the wife of James Duncan; Mary Agnes, who was the wife of Rev. T. L. Scott, and died in India; Alfred P., to whom this sketch relates; Clinton B., who is a farmer of Perry township, Lawrence county, Pa.; Frank B., who is a farmer of Allegheny county; Matilda, de-ceased, who was the wife of J. M. Scott; Joseph, who is a farmer of Perry township; Margaret, deceased; and four others, who died in infancy. Politically, Mr. Marshall was first a Democrat, but being opposed to slavery, he became a Republican. He was elected to many township offices, which tends to prove his popularity and the esteem in which he was held by his fellow-citizens. He was a member of the United Presbyterian church. He departed from this life in his sixty-seventh year.
Our subject attended the public schools, Westminster College, Pa., and Mount Union College, Ohio, and spent his leisure hours on his father's farm. Being very ambitious to acquire a thorough education, he attended college during the summer months, while in the winter he taught school, and in that way secured ample funds to carry him through aneducational course. This he continued for a period of seven years and then he entered the law office of Hon. John G. Hall, of Ridgway, Pennsylvania. He subsequently entered the office of Samuel B. Wilson, of Beaver, Pa., and was admitted to the bar of Beaver county, in April, 1876. He immediately began practicing in Beaver, where he has remained ever since. Later, he took Mr. McCoy as a partner under the name of Marshall & McCoy, but since the latter's death, in 1890, he has continued the practice of his profession alone. Mr. Marshall has won an enviable prominence as a business lawyer and man of affairs; since his admission to the bar he has been actively engaged in the practice of law, meeting with exceptional success. His well-known studious habits, and the conscientious, thorough and exhaustive manner in which he deals with all matters undertaken by him, assures a continuous and ever increasing professional prosperity.
Mr. Marshall was united in the bonds of matrimony with Miss Cora F. Bentel, a daughter of Charles H. Bentel, and granddaughter of Philip and Margaret (Smith) Bentel. Three children have been born to them : Annie B., Charles B., and Lillian C. Philip Bentel, the great-grandfather of Alfred P. Marshall's wife, was a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, and came to Beaver county, Pa., with the Economites, locating in Economy. His wife was Margaret, by whom he had one child, Philip. Philip Bentel, after attaining his manhood, opened a general store in the house he erected in 1832, in the village of Freedom. He conducted the store for a period of thirty years, and in addition, started the bank of Philip Bentel & Company, of which he served as president. This bank is still in existence, and since its establishment, in 1872, it has been known by the above name. Philip Bentel was a very enterprising and successful man, and served in his district as a school director and as a councilman. He was a Lutheran, and a devoted member of that denomination. He was joined in marriage with Margaret Smith, a daughter of Tobias Smith, and she died in 1881, at the age of seventy-five years. Mr. Bentel died in 1883, aged seventy-seven years. They were the parents of the following children : Thalia, the wife of John Conway; Mattie, wedded to Joseph Leadley; John, married to Mary Batey; and Charles H.
Charles H. Bentel was reared and educated in Freedom, and started in life as a store keeper at Alliance, Ohio; one year later, he returned to Freedom, and succeeded his father in the mercantile business, continuing thus for a period of seventeen years. When the hank was established, in 1872, he became cashier, and upon the death of his father, he abandoned the mercantile business; he is president of the bank, as well as owner. Mr. Bentel is a prominent and well-to-do citizen of the village, and possesses the confidence and esteem of a multitude of acquaintances. He is a stanch member of the Presbyterian church, while socially, he has been a member of the Masonic order for the past thirty years. Mr. Bentel was wedded to Miss Amanda Clark, a daughter of Captain Samuel, and Minerva (Reno) Clark ; they are the parents of five children, namely: Annie; Cora F., the wife of the subject of this sketch, who was born in West Virginia, but reared in Pittsburg, Pa.; Thalia; Mattie, who is the wife of J. G. Mitchell, and Philip, who is bookkeeper of the Keystone Lumber Works.
DONALD C. ALLEN is a dealer in flour and feed in the borough of Beaver Falls, Pa., and is among its most enterprising merchants. He was born near Prospect, Butler county, Pa., August 13, 186o, and is a son of William and Penelope (Lambie) Allen, and grandson of Robert and Jane (Cochran) Allen.
Robert Allen was born in County Down, Ireland, and in 1832, with his wife and family, came to the United States; Ile settled on a farm in Mercer county, Pa., which had been purchased for him by his son William. There he continued to reside until overtaken by death, which was at the age of eighty-four years. His wife, Jane Cochran, also died at about that age. They were the parents of a family 0f six children, namely: Margaret (Montgomery) ; Mary (Stewart) ; William; Robert; Samuel ; and Cochran. William Allen, the father of Donald C., was born in County Down, Ireland, in the year 1815, five years previous to the arrival of his parents in this country, and spent several years on his father's farm in Mercer county. He then went to Pittsburg, Pa., and worked in a wholesale grocery store at No. 196 Liberty street, for a period of ten years. He then engaged in the grocery business in the village of Prospect, Butler county, Pa., successfully continuing thus for ten years; he then sold out his store, bought a saw and grist mill three miles south of that village; rebuilt the mills, and continued in the milling business until death claimed him, -which was in 1879. He was united in the bonds of wedlock with Miss Penelope Lambie, a native of Edinburgh, Scotland, and a daughter of William Lambie; she passed from this earth, in 1897, aged seventy-four years. Their union was blessed by the birth of the following children: Robert, deceased; Agnes, who died aged seventeen years; Marion (McCandless) ; Jeannette R. (Crabbe) ; Penelope, the wife 0f James Balph, a medical missionary, and prominent resident of Latakia, Syria; Margaret, a school teacher; William L., deceased; Donald C., the subject of this brief memoir; and John G., who is in the grocery business in Beaver Falls. Religiously, he was connected with the Reformed Presbyterian church.
Donald C. Allen obtained a good schooling in his native district, and spent his boyhood days in helping his father in the work about the mill; in 1884 he began work at lumbering, but in 1889, he went into the grocery business with his brother, John G. Allen. He continued thus until 1897, when he sold his interests and bought out R. A. Bole, who was engaged in the flour and feed business. Mr. Allen is well deserving of the large patronage he has already secured, and his genial manners and straightforward business methods have secured for him hosts of friends.
Mr. Allen formed a matrimonial alliance, in 1896, with Miss Mary E. Heiser, a daughter of Daniel Heiser, of Lewisburg, Pa., and their home has been blessed by the birth of one son, Donald C., Jr. Mr. Allen is an active member of the Reformed Presbyterian church; he was the prime mover in establishing the Mission Sunday School at PattersoN Heights, and is still a leader in the school. He is a deacon, and a trustee, of the church. On a preceding page is shown the family group, of Donald C. Allen, his wife, and his son, Donald C., Jr.
MARTIN WHITE, one of the successful and popular agriculturists of Darlington township, Beaver county, Pa., is one of the oldest Masons in the district. He is a prominent member of Meridian Lodge, No. 411, F. & A. M., and also of the Chapter and Commandery. Mr. White is a man of considerable intellectual ability. He is not only a sound thinker, but is also an interesting conversationalist, and expresses his views in a clear and concise manner. In politics, he is an ardent Democrat and assumes the aggressive, but could never be prevailed upon to accept office.
Mr. White was born in Allegheny county, Pa., October 28, 1828. He is the eldest son of the late John White, and grandson of Thomas White. Thomas White was a native of the north of Ireland, where he was reared and educated. He came to America just previous to the breaking out of the Revolutionary War. He took an active part in that long and bloody struggle, and after its successful termination, began trading in Mexico. Upon one of his trips to that country he was captured by bandits. All his earnings were seized„ and he was imprisoned for six months. He subsequently purchased land in Kentucky and also along the Monongahela River, in the vicinity of Pittsburg, Pa., the present site of which city was then all farming land. After making some improvements on his land Mr. White sold it, and purchased another tract in Beaver county, whither he removed during the later part of the eighteenth century.
Thomas White was united in marriage with a Miss Martin, and to them were born the following children : James, of Mexico; John, father of the subject hereof; Joseph; Jane (Duncan) ; Nancy, wife of Judge Caruthers; and Susan (Burns).
John White, father of the gentleman to whom this writing pertains, was born in Allegheny county, Pa., in January, 1802. He attended the public schools of his native county, and, although the opportunities for his mental culture were limited, he made the most of what he could obtain and became a fairly good scholar. He learned the art of tilling the soil and assisted his father for many years. A four-hundred-acre farm fell to him, as his heritage. To thishe added eight hundred acres of land which he purchased in Beaver county. The latter was only partly improved. John White re-moved to his Beaver county farm in 1850. He further improved his place by building spacious and convenient barns. Besides carrying on general farming, he was a very successful sheep-raiser for many years, and made a great deal of money. But after some years the foot-rot caused much loss among his sheep and that branch of farming was discontinued entirely.
T. Martin White's father was public-spirited and generous. He was one of the men prominent in building railroads from. New Galilee to the cannel coalmines. But his efforts in that direction were not appreciated. He failed to receive the support such an enterprise deserved, and lost heavily. He was quite prominent in political and church matters, and his opinions and advice were frequently sought by his neighbors and associates. He served many years as justice of the peace. Five -children were born to him and his excellent wife. Their names are: T. Martin, the subject of this biography; John B.; Duncan, who was burned to death; Mary (Waterbury) ; and James, who died at the age of twenty-one years.
T. Martin White obtained a fair primary education in the public schools, which was supplemented by a thorough course at Hookstown Academy, from which he graduated. Later he worked on the farm for some years, but discontinued that line of work to engage in contracting. He went to New York City and engaged in business quite successfully as a street contractor. He was one of the first men who ever did wood block-paving in that great city. One large contract secured by him was for the paving of Fourteenth street, but he faithfully executed others as large. He did a very successful business. His success was all the more marked from the fact that he had lived most of his life on a farm, and, in a city so important as New York, he was successful in competing with men who had been born and reared there, and possessed the customary shrewdness of city contractors.
Mr. White continued this life for eight years, and was then urged by his parents to return to Beaver county. With a sense of filial duty he gave up fine business prospects and returned home to brighten the declining years of a much-loved father and mother. He at once took charge of the farm, and faith-fully fulfilled the obligations devolved upon him until the death of his parents. He and his brother, John B., succeeded to the estate. The subject of our sketch received as his share two hundred and twenty-five acres of the old homestead farm, where he still resides. This is conceded to be one of the best farms in Beaver county. It is almost an assured fact that if crops are poor on this farm there are no good crops in the county.
Mr. White has been twice married. His first union was with Elizabeth Hall, a daughter of Joseph Hall, who was a well known boat builder of Freedom, where the birth of Elizabeth occurred. Her death took place in 1890. Mr. White's second marriage was contracted with Emma Blair, of sturdy Pennsylvania-German stock. She was born in Clarion county, and has presented her husband with one son, T. M., born in 1898. Mr. White is justly regarded as a representative farmer of Darlington township, and liberally supports all religious denominations, having no favorite one.
HON. MILLARD F. MECKLEM. There are but few counties in the state of Pennsylvania that can boast of as many brilliant lawyers as Beaver. They are a class of citizens which, more than any other class, has the power to attract public attention to a community, thus materially aiding in its growth and development. The gentleman, whose name appears above, is one of the most conspicuous members of the bar of the county, and resides at Rochester, where he has an extensive practice. Profound in his knowledge of legal principles and gifted with the power of eloquence, he has long been a prominent figure in the public eye,-serving for some time as president judge of the district.
Mr. Mecklem is a son of Archibald M. and Margaret (Thompson) Mecklem, and was born in Pittsburg, Pa., October 15, 1851. His grandfather was Samuel Mecklem, who, in the year 1800, came from the state of New Jersey to North Sewickley (now Marion) township, Beaver county, Pa., being one of the pioneers of that section, lying in the beautiful valley of Brush Creek. He purchased a tract of land covered with timber, and in the wild state in which it was left by the hand of nature. Stately trees fell before the onslaught of civilization, and a wonderful transformation took place. A log house and barns were erected and the wild lands became fertile fields of pasture and grain. The nearest neighbors were far distant, but there this hardy old pioneer lived in happiness with his wife and children until his death. He married Rachel McDonald, who was of Scotch ancestry, and their children were as follows: Jethro ; John; Eli; Samuel; Archibald M.; Gideon; Sarah, the wife of Joseph Wolf; and Eliza, who became the wife of James Jones.
Archibald McDonald Mecklem was born on the old farm in 18o6, and as he grew up aided in clearing it. At that early day, money was little used as a medium of exchange, and the produce of the farm was bartered for any article which was desired. It was not easy to obtain an education at that day, and books were very scarce. Ambitious, and not afraid. of work, Archibald and his brothers made some splint brooms by taking a green ash tree, pounding the wood, peeling it up from one end, a distance of fifteen inches, and then cutting the balance down to a handle. Happy in the thought of the books these would buy, they made their way to the store, several miles through the snow, and were dismayed to find that their product was rejected, as the market was flooded with just such articles. As the kind merchant noted their disappointment, he asked what it was they wished to buy, and upon being informed that it was books, hisheart went out to them and the exchange was effected. Archibald's diligent search for knowledge led him to abandon the backwoods and seek the culture and refinement of city life. He was yet in his teens, when he went to Pittsburg, and there applied his hand to anything he could find to do. Energetic and saving, he laid by as much of his wages as he could, and in time was enabled to enter the grocery business, which he conducted for many years on Liberty street, near where the Union Station now is. In 1855, he sold out and opened a general merchandise store at Darlington, which he operated for fourteen years, with the best of results. In 1869, feeling the weight of years, he decided to lessen his business cares, and, accordingly, sold out, and kept a small store at North Sewickley. A few years later he died aged sixty-eight years, and was buried in the North Sewickley Cemetery. His first marriage (with Rachel Barris) resulted in the birth of several children, all of whom died in infancy. She died at a very early age, of consumption. Mr. Mecklem formed a second matrimonial alliance with Margaret Thompson, a daughter of Joseph Thompson, a pioneer farmer of North Sewickley, and they had the following issue: Rose, the wife of C. T. Crawford, of Esplin, Pa.; Millard F., the subject of this personal history; Joseph T., a farmer of Franklin town-ship, Beaver county; Jane, the wife of S. S. Bennett, of Rochester; and Ross D., who died n infancy. Mrs. Mecklem died at the age of fifty-nine years. Mr. Mecklem was very strongly opposed to slavery, and assisted in the working of the old "underground railroad." Religiously, he was a faithful adherent to the faith of the Baptist church.
Millard F. Mecklem received a good intellectual training and male the best of his advantages, attending the public schools of Darlington, the North Sewickley Academy, and a private school at the latter place. He taught for several years in the public schools, and then, having decided upon a professional career, registered as a law student in the office of Chamberlain & Pearsol, of New Brighton. He was admitted to the bar on March 10, 1882, and in the fall of that year located at Rochester, where he has since practiced his profession. In 1883, he was elected burgess of Rochester and served with such satisfactory results, that he was five times re-elected. Being a careful and faithful student, and withal, clear minded, he has acquired a fair knowledge of the law, and has secured a large clientage. He rose rapidly in his profession and was chosen district attorney, an office he held for five and one-half years, when he resigned to accept the position of president judge. He succeeded president judge John I. Wickham (who had resigned), and was appointed by Gov. Hastings, being the unanimous choice of the county. Mr. Mecklem then appointed D. M. Twiford, Esq., as his successor as district attorney. He meted out justice in an honest and impartial manner, obtaining favor with the public and the lawyers who practiced, in his court. Upon the expiration of his term, before anyone had left the courtroom he was presented with a beautiful gold-headed cane by W. B. Cuthbertson, Esq., and other well-known attorneys made remarks as to his ability and the esteem in which he was held by all. The Judge accepted in a fitting manner, and with his characteristic, unassuming style. In 1895, he became a director of the First National Bank, of Rochester.
In 1881, Judge Mecklem was united in marriage with Ella Jackson, a daughter of Robert and Eliza (Thompson) Jackson, of North Sewickley township, and their children are : Erie Homer, Norman Jackson, Ella and Margaret Millard. Fraternally, he is a member of the Royal Arcanum and the Order of Elks. He is a member of the Baptist church, and his wife is a consistent member of the Presbyterian church. In 189o, Mr. Mecklem sold the home in which he lived, on Pennsylvania street, and built a handsome residence and office at the corner of Madison and Connecticut streets.
WILLIAM CARR, one of the most prosperous and substantial citizens of Rochester, Beaver county, Pa., is the proprietor of a large boot and shoe store in that borough, and is prominently identified with many other business enterprises. He is a son of Robert and Mary (Haw) Carr, and was born in Steubenville, Ohio, October 12, 1848.
Robert Carr, the father of our subject, was born in County Down, Ireland, and after his marriage came to America in 1831, landing in the city of Philadelphia. He moved to Pittsburg, Pa., where he learned the trade of a glass blower, and from there went to Washington county and became a farmer, and several years later moved to Steubenville, Ohio. He took up the trade of a metal worker and followed it with much success until his death, which occurred early in life. His wife was Mary Haw and she attained the ripe old age of ninety-five years, being a hale and hearty woman all her life. Their children were as follows: Jane, the wife of John McCowen; Mary, the wife of Lloyd Parks; Nancy, the wife of Samuel Irvin; John, deceased, whose union with Mahala Campbell resulted in the birth of two children, Thomas and Georgia; Thomas, of Rochester; Robert, also of Rochester; and William, the subject of this writing.
William Carr, the youngest child of the family, attended the public schools, but as his father died leaving a family of small children, he sought employment at an early age. He was an ambitious youth, and while not in school did outside jobs,-at the age of six years acting as firer of glassware. He spent much of his time in the glass factory and acquired such skill that he was later enabled to demand a good position, when he went to Pittsburg. He was employed as finisher for J. B. Lyons, and continued in that capacity until 1872, when the Rochester Tumbler Company was organized. He became a stockholder in this company and helped to build the plant, after which he started the business and continued in it as an active partner until1895. He then retired from that business, although he is still a stockholder and director, and purchased the store of James Ing in the Darr building. He is one of the leading boot and shoe merchants in Beaver county, and has built up an excellent trade, enjoying the patronage of the leading citizens of the community. He is as honest as he is sagacious in his transactions, and he has made many friends by his upright dealings. He is a stockholder and director of the Rochester Improvement Company, and has built four residences in Rochester, one on Brighton street, and three on Jackson street. His home is on the latter street, and is one of the best in the town.
William Carr was united in marriage at Steubenville, Ohio, with Mary E. Aldridge, who was born in 1848 and died in 1892, and was a daughter of Rodney Aldridge. Their children were: Carrie, deceased, the wife of Henry J. Miller; Edward, who is associated in business with his father; and Nellie, who was united in marriage with Lewis Gillen, of New Brighton. Mr. Carr was again married to Mrs. Annie Newman, who by her first union had five children: Minnie; Eva; William; Frank; and Annie. Mrs. Newman is a daughter of William Boswell. Politically, Mr. Carr is a Republican and served in the borough council three years. He was a delegate to the county convention. He is chairman of the Rochester Centennial to be held in 1900. Fraternally, he is a member of Blue Lodge, No. 229, F. & A. M.; of Eureka Chapter, R. A. M., of Rochester; of Ascalon Commandery, No. 59, K. of T., of Pittsburg; of Pennsylvania Consistory, S. P. R. S., and of Scottish Rites of Pittsburg (being a thirty-second degree Mason) ; of Rochester Lodge, I. O. O. F.; and of the Elks. Religiously, he is a member of the Episcopal church. He was president of the M. S. Quay club when that organization was in a flourishing condition.
DR. WALTER A. ROSE. The gentleman, whose name appears at the opening of this sketch, stands high in his profession, and is known throughout Beaver county as one of the most popular and efficient physicians in the vicinity. A man of commanding appearance and genial presence, he has won for himself many warm friends, and his many excellent qualities of mind, and skill in his profession, have gained for him a large and lucrative practice. He was born in Elgin county, Ontario, Canada, April 17, 1842, and is a son of Alexander and Catherine (Monroe) Rose.
Alexander Rose. the father of our subject, was born near Edinburgh, Scotland, and emigrated to Canada. which was his home the rest of his life. He was a mechanic by trade, but became a speculator. He was among those to start the reformation in Canada, and was closely identified with William Lyon McKenzy and George Lawton. He met death early in life, being drowned in a small lake. He married Catherine Monroe, and their children were as follows : Isabelle, widow of thelate John Warburton. living in New York City; Jeannette, deceased, who was married to Elihu Moore; Catherine, who married Colin McDougall, and lives in St. Thomas, Ontario ; Margaret, who married Edward Capsey, of Illinois; Rachael, who died in youth; and Walter A., the subject of this biography.
Walter A. Rose attended the public schools of his native town and also the schools at St. Thomas, and registered as a medical student under Dr. Robert L. Sanderson, of Sparta, Ontario. Being of a studious turn of mind, and naturally bright and quick to learn, he made rapid progress, and entered the University of Michigan, remaining there for two years. He then attended the university at Buffalo, N. Y., and graduated from that institution with the class of 1867. He chose Rochester, Pa., for his future home, and began practicing there. It was not long until his fine abilities were recognized, and though he entered the town a complete stranger, he acquired a large practice in a very short time. It is one of the largest in this part of the state, and while it is general, he makes a specialty of the throat and nose. He is spoken of by everyone in the highest terms, and is greatly loved by all in the community. In 1887, he bought a vacant lot, and erected a large and elegant three-story brick building, which is known as the Rose Block, and is on the corner of New York and Brighton streets. The first floor is devoted to his office and reception rooms, and to the First National Bank, and one of the best restaurants in the town. The second and third floors are finely fitted tip for family use. The building is located in the heart of the borough, and is a very handsome and commodious structure.
Dr. Rose is division surgeon for the Pennsylvania R. R. Company. He owns extensive oil interests in Ohio, and has dealt largely in real estate in Rochester. He has done all in his power to further the progress and business interests of Rochester, and we find his name associated with the incorporators of the Rochester Street Railway, the Keystone Tumbler Company, and with the directorship of the Second and Third National Building Associations of Rochester. He is a member and past grand of Rochester lodge, F. & A. M., No. 229, and R. A. M. and Ascalon Commandery, No. 59, K. IT., Allegheny, Pa., and of the Scottish Rites Masonic Commandery of Pittsburg, No. 320, and the Syria Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine of Pittsburg. He is examining physician of the Maple Leaf order, Woodmen of the World.
JOHN B. YOUNG. A history of Beaver county would be quite incomplete without a sketch of the oldest member of the Beaver county bar. Such is the gentleman whose name appears at the head of these lines, whose important legal connections and recognized ability have placed him in the front rank of distinguished lawyers of this county. He is a resident of Beaver, and is at present serving his third term as justiceof the peace of that borough. He was born at Achor, Columbiana county, Ohio, August 25, 1834, and is a son of Jacob Young, and a grandson of Baltzer Young.
Baltzer Young was born in Germany, but in his early manhood, he came to the United States, and first settled in Philadelphia; he subsequently traveled west on the Little Beaver River to Columbiana county, Ohio, and there took up a tract of land. He erected saw, grist and (later) carding mills, and the place was known as Young's Mills ; these were destroyed by fire, and he built other mills, which have since been removed to Negley by his grandson, and are still in use, although their running power has been changed from water to steam. He also operated a large farm in addition to milling. He passed from this life, aged eighty-five years. His wife was Susanna Boose, by whom he reared a large family of children. Those who grew to maturity were: Jacob; John; Peter; Samuel ; George; David; Mary; Elizabeth; Margaret ; and Rachel.
Jacob Young was born in Philadelphia, Pa., and succeeded his father in the mills; he also kept a store many years, but in his fondness for the farm, he sold out, bought a large tract of land, and began tilling the soil. He also engaged in sheep raising, and once owned several hundred sheep. At the time of his retirement at Achor, Ohio, he owned eleven hundred acres of land." He died there, aged sixty years. He wedded Susanna Brown, a daughter of George and Alice Brown, and she also died in her sixtieth year. They were the parents of the following children: George ; Alice; Jacob Boose; Sarah G.; Rachel; Matilda Jane; Rebecca; Mary Ann ; Peter B.; John B.; Caroline A.; and Emily.
John B. Young obtained his elementary education in the public schools, and in Beaver Academy, and in the meantime decided to adopt the profession of a lawyer. In order to pursue his studies in that direction, he entered the law office of Hon. Thomas Cunningham, and was subsequently admitted to the bar, in 1858. He immediately opened an office in Beaver, where he has continuously practiced up to the present time, and the great ability and keen judgment displayed in the handling of his cases have not only made him well known before the Beaver county bar, but have placed him in the ranks of the foremost attorneys in Western Pennsylvania. Since 1861, in addition to the regular practice of the law, he has also served as pension attorney. Besides being prominent as a lawyer, he is equally prominent as a man of affairs; he has been honored with the office of district attorney of Beaver county, trustee of Beaver Academy, chief burgess of Beaver, and is now serving his third term as justice of the peace. In 1864, he enlisted in Company II, 5th Reg., Pa. Heavy Artillery, and was honorably discharged in 1865, at the close of the war.
Mr. Young married Anna Bocking, a daughter of Adolph and Mary Bocking, - both natives of Prussia; her parents came to this country in 1849. Mr. Bocking was a landscape artist of great talent, and manyof his pictures have taken the highest awards in New York City, Philadelphia, Pittsburg, and many other large cities. Mr. and Mrs. Young reared the following children: Elma Jennett, who is the wife of G. W. McGraw, of Pittsburg, Pa., and has four children (Ethel, George W., Elizabeth A., and John B.) ; Louis A.., who is a harnessmaker and grocer, at Denver, Colorado, and married Ida Mansfield (by whom he reared John B., and Louis A., Jr.) ; Annie C.; Maude E., who wedded L. L. Mosher, attorney-at-law, at Indianola, Iowa, and had five children (Lee, Wendell P., Donovan, Edith and Hugh) ; Amelia B., who wedded Charles L. Sheets, of Beaver Falls, Pa., and has one son (Oliver Byron) ; William T., who is a harnessmaker living at Mercer, Pa.; Alice; Pearl; and Anna Melinka. The subject of this sketch was a strong anti-slavery man, and supported the Republican ticket from the holding of the first Republican conference at Pittsburg, Pa., until after President Grant's first election, since which time he has been a radical reformer,-advocating municipal and governmental ownership, co-operation in the production and distribution of wealth as distinguished from competition, the necessity of the initiative and referendum, and the "single tax," as one of the coming reforms. Religiously, he is a member of the Baptist church, while his wife is a member of the Presbyterian denomination. Mr. Young is a man of fine appearance and popular manners, and is a favorite with all who know him ; his courteous deportment and genial ways have gained for him the confidence, esteem and good-will of a host of acquaintances. His portrait appears on a preceding page.
TITUS M. WELSH is superintendent of the Union Water Company of Beaver Falls, Pa., in which capacity he has efficiently served since the first of January, 1895. He is a prominent and well-to-do citizen and is always interested in the growth and prosperity of his adopted borough; his birthplace was in Chippewa township, in this county, and he is a son of John W. and Jeannette (Garwood) Welsh, and a grandson of Andrew Welsh.
The great-grandfather of the subject hereof was James Welsh, who was of Welsh extraction. His son, Andrew, the grandfather of Titus M., was the member of the family who came to this country, and he is classed among the old settlers of Chippewa township, Beaver county, Pa., having taken up a large tract of land there ; his occupation was farming. Politically, he was an Old Line Whig, and later a Republican; he served as justice of the peace of Chippewa township, and was popularly known as "Squire" Welsh. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was at Erie when Commodore Perry overwhelmingly defeated the British squadron. He was married to Keziah Newkirk and they reared a family of children, one of whom was John W.
John W. Welsh was born on his father's farm in Chippewa township, in 1826, and there spent his entire life tilling the soil ; he passedfrom this earth in 1894. In politics, he was a Republican, while religiously, he was a member of the Methodist church. His union with the mother of the subject hereof resulted in the birth of the following children : Titus M.; Moses B., deceased; Franklin P., a resident of Beaver Falls; Ira E., who is a farmer living in Erie county, Pa.; Phoebe, who is the wife of Ollie J. Wallace, of Homewood, Beaver county; Andrew Morris, deceased; Lucius Wright, deceased; Lizzie J., who is the wife of William Wallace of Thompson, Beaver county; Addie K., who was wedded to Chauncey Robinson, of Connellsville, Pa.; Richard W., who resides at Mahoningtown, Pa.; and one who died in its infancy.
Titus M. Welsh obtained a thorough intellectual training in the public schools of Chippewa township and at Beaver Academy, but the practical portion of his education was received through actual business experience. He worked on the homestead until a year after his marriage, in 1867, and then moved to Beaver Falls, where he accepted a position as file hardener in the file works of that borough. After continuing in that capacity for two years, he went to Conneautville, Crawford county, Pa., where he spent one year, as a partner in a carriage wheel factory, which was subsequently destroyed by fire, -Mr. Welsh thus sustaining a severe loss. Returning to Beaver Falls he took up his former position in the file works, but in 1880, he entered the employ of Emerson, Smith & Company as steam engineer; after remaining in their service ten years he. lost his position during a strike, but afterwards accepted a like situation with the Carnegie Company. In September, 1894, Mr. Welsh resigned from this connection, and, at the beginning of the following year, entered upon his present work as superintendent of the Union Water Company of Beaver Falls.
In politics, Mr. Welsh is a Republican, and served three years as a member of the council from the sixth ward, and also as a congressional delegate. Socially, he is a member of the I. O. O. F., also of the Encampment of Beaver Falls; and of the Woodmen of the World. His marriage to Miss Lizzie J. In-man, a daughter of Azariah and Jane Inman, was blessed by the birth of five children : Frank I., who is employed in the American Steel Works of Beaver Falls; Albertice A., who died aged two years; Lorena M., who died aged seven years; Clyde W., who works in the same mill as does his brother, Frank I.; and Wilber L., who is engaged with L. D. Clark, wholesale confectioner, Beaver Falls.
GEORGE F. WEHR is one of the substantial and prominent citizens of the town of Rochester, Pa. He is president of the borough council, and takes a deep interest in the growth and welfare of his adopted town. Besides being interested in various enterprises in Rochester, he is also
superintendent of the etching and cutting department of the Phoenix Glass Company, of
Monaca, Pennsylvania. He was born near Lancaster, Butler county, Pa., February 19, 1864, and is a son of Frederick and Elizabeth (Martsolf) Wehr.
George F. Wehr's father was born in Germany, and upon coming to the United States, he located in Butler county, Pa., where he became the owner of a fine farm; he successfully, followed farming all his life, and passed away at the age of eighty-four years. His first wife died leaving a family of four children: Andrew; Michael ; Lizzie; and Kate. The subject of our sketch was the only child born of the second union, and his mother is now living at Monaca, Pennsylvania.
Mr. Wehr was eleven years of age when he entered school at Allegheny, and remained there until he was fourteen. At that age he began clerking for George Bechtell, at Monaca, but a year later he accepted a position with the Rochester Glass Manufacturing Company, working in the punch department, of which he afterwards became foreman. He later became manager of the coloring department in the Phoenix Glass Company, of Monaca, but at the present time he is superintendent of the etching and cutting department. Mr. Wehr has been a member of the council during the past three years, and, since 1897, has served as president of that body. The council of Rochester was established by an act of the legislature, March 20, 1849, which was signed by Gov. William F. Johnston and town clerk George St. Clair Murry.
September 16, 1884, Mr. Wehr was united in marriage with Miss Emma Stiles, a daughter of Atlas Stiles, of Rochester, and she died leaving two children: Willie Atlas, born June 5, 1885 ; and Martha Elizabeth, born June 23, 1887. February 13, 1890, he wedded Mrs. Emma R. Marshall, a daughter of George Young, also of Rochester, and from this union the following children have resulted, namely : George Frederick, born July 21, 1894, died January 6, 1895; and Annie Marie and Andrew Howard, twins, born April 7, 1896. The subject of this sketch occupies a neat residence on the corner of Vermont and Jefferson streets, which he erected in 1893. He formerly resided where A. Neidergall now lives on Jefferson street. Mr. Wehr was reared a Lutheran but is a member, trustee and steward of the Methodist church. Socially, he is a member of the I. O. O. F.; Rebecca Lodge; K. of P.; Jr. O. U. A. M.; Elks Lodge; Protective Home Circle; and the Fidelity Mutual Life Association.
ALFRED M. WHISLER, D. D. S., the oldest practicing dentist in New Brighton, Beaver county, Pa., has for many years occupied a high position in the town, and is greatly esteemed by all his fellow-citizens. He was born in Rochester, Pa., October 13, 1839, and is a son of John H. and Agnes (Jackson) Whisler.
Jacob Whisler, the grandfather of our subject, was a son of Christian Whisler. Jacob was born in Virginia, whence he moved to Lancaster county, Pa., about 1814, and afterward came to the vicinity of Beaver county, where he settled, in Pulaski township. There he bought and cleared up a farm,-a government tract consisting of 160 acres,-which is now owned by Mr. Stuber, and is said to be a very valuable piece of land. Jacob Whisler served in the Revolutionary War, and died when more than seventy years old. His wife, whose maiden name was Catherine, Hart, died at the age of eighty. Their children were: Benjamin, Jacob, Andrew, Joseph, and John H. John H. Whisler was born near Carlisle, Cumberland county, Pa., in 1802, and in early manhood taught school during the winter. He apprenticed himself as boat-builder to John Boles, of Bolesville, Beaver county, and later became Mr. Boles' partner in business. He then bought Mr. Boles' share in the business and followed boat building for the remainder of his active life. He made principally cotton and canal boats. In his later years, he was a silent partner of S. Barnes & Co., clay manufacturers. He married Agnes Jackson, a daughter of James Jackson, one of the pioneer settlers of Pulaski township. Agnes Jackson was a relative of General Andrew Jackson, her father being a cousin of the general. Mr. Whisler died at the age of eighty-two, and his wife died at the age of eighty. Their children were as follows: Jackson, deceased; Leander, of Sioux City, Iowa; John H., living in Rochester; Jeremiah; Alfred M., the subject of this biography ; Addison W., a reporter, of Rochester, formerly a boat builder, who married Rebecca Q. Brobeck; Amanda J., deceased; Charles F., deceased; and Mary Ellen, who was the wife of the late R. H. Kerr. Mr. Wheeler's father was an active politician, and held several minor offices. He helped to build the Presbyterian church at Bridgewater, Pa., and was an elder therein. At the time of his death, he was the only living original member.
Alfred M. Whisler became a student of dentistry with James Murray, of Bridgewater, and practiced his profession in Rochester, with T. J. Chandler, from 1862 to 1867. He then moved to New Brighton, and located in the office which he now occupies. He could not stand higher in the profession than he does, and he has worked up a large and lucrative practice. For many years he has made a specialty of gold crown work, bridge work, and the like. His patrons are from the oldest and best families, and his practice is ever increasing. He married Mamie M. Marquis, a daughter of Dr. D. S. Marquis, of Rochester, Pa., and their children are as follows: Gracie S., who died at the age of eight years; Edward B., a clerk in the auditor's office of the P. & L. E. R. R.; Frazier, who married E. Kinney Lowe, of Washington, D. C., and has one child, William R. The subject of our sketch is a Democrat. He attends the Presbyterian church; is a member of Union Lodge, No. 259, F. & A. M.. of New Brighton, Pa., and served as worshipful master in 1877, '78, '79 and '86. He was high priest of Harmony Chapter, No. 206, in 1889. Dr. Whisler's portrait accompanies the above account of his life.
RICHARD J. MARLATT, who is a representative of the younger generation of farmers of Beaver county, cultivates a fine farm of one hundred and fifty-two acres located in Chippewa township. He is a man: of enterprise, quick to adopt all modern and improved methods of farming, and has attained a degree of success which is surprising in one so young. He is a son of Michael and Abbie (Allison) Marlatt, and was born in Beaver county, September 7, 1875, on the old homestead, where he now lives.
His grandfather was Richard Marlatt, who was born in New Jersey, where he was educated and learned the trade of a carpenter. this he followed there for some years and also after his removal to Sewickley, where he died at an advanced age.
Michael Marlatt, the father of Richard J., was born in New Jersey in 1830, and, although his educational advantages were limited, he acquired a good mental training. The school terms were of but three months' duration, and he was able to attend but a short time. He was an accurate mathematician, a discriminating reader, and a profound thinker, and had he had but the opportunity presented to the student of today, he would undoubtedly have created a name for himself along professional lines. He was obliged to adopt a mechanical career, and it was but natural that he should choose the trade of his father, that of a carpenter. He assisted his father and then followed the business for himself for some time, after which he hired out as a farm hand by the day. He then bought a small farm near Leetsdale, Pa., and did a general market-gardening business, hauling to Pittsburg. He had to haul the produce the entire way, and it was by working and sleeping out of doors that he lost his hearing, a very sad affliction for one of such intelligence. Selling his Leetsdale property, he went to Beaver Falls, bought building lots and worked at his trade; but owing to his wife's poor health, he traded his city property for the farm on which the subject of this record now lives, and in addition gave a money consideration. It is an improved farm of 152 acres, one-half of which is cleared, and has a good house. He erected new barns and did a general gardening business,-retailing in Beaver Falls. He set out three elegant orchards, and engaged in dairying and stock-raising. In 1898, in the sixty-ninth year of his age, he died very suddenly while engaged in work upon his farm. His wife was Abbie Allison, who was born in Allegheny county, in 1836, and they reared the following children: Joseph, a pastor of the M. E. church in Tacoma, Washington, and a graduate of Meadville Academy; Amy (Hendrickson) ; Charles, superintendent of Morado Park; Sadie (Wells), deceased; Robert, a farmer; Rev. Wesley, a graduate of Geneva College and formerly a successful attorney, who received the degree of D. D. from the University of Michigan, and died while pastor of the M. E. church at Johnstown, Pa. ; William, a farmer who now assists the subject hereof; and Richard J., whose name heads these lines. Politically, Mr. Marlatt was a
Republican and served as school director and supervisor. He was a trustee of the M. E. church.
Richard J. Marlatt received a good intellectual training in the district schools, and has lived his entire life upon the old home farm. Upon his father's death, the farm descended to his heirs, and our subject has since had its management. Self-reliant and industrious, he has cultivated the farm in the most approved style, and his efforts have been attended by the greatest success. He follows closely the footsteps of his father, doing a large general market business, and also has the place stocked with good cattle and horses. He has a wide knowledge on the subject of farming, and his opinions are respected to a degree not usually accorded one so young. He is very popular with his fellow-citizens, having a large circle of friends throughout the township. Politically, he is a Republican, but does not aspire to office. He is a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church.
ERNST H. SEIPLE, the genial and efficient cashier of the Union National Bank of New Brighton, Pa., has occupied that important position since 1894. The bank is finely located at the corner of Ninth street and Third avenue in the Merrick building, which was purchased and
especially fitted up with suitable equipments for the purpose. The interior is finely furnished with a superb set of modern fixtures and contains office, director's and president's rooms, with burglar and fireproof safe of the most modern design. The bank has a capital stock of $50,000, and is doing a substantial business, conducted on safe lines. C. M. Merrick was the first president. The first vice-president was E. Autenreith, who was succeeded by J. F. Miner. E. H. Seiple, cashier, C. C. Keck, assistant cashier, and H. R. Boots, messenger, complete the force.
Ernst H, Seiple was born in New Hamburg, Mercer county, Pa., in 1864. He is a son of Joseph H. and Sarah (Beil) Seiple. Joseph H. Seiple was also a native of Mercer county, Pa., and early in life, engaged in merchandizing at New Hamburg, Pa., and later at Greenville. He subsequently retired from mercantile pursuits to a farm, which he had previously purchased. The remainder of his days was spent in the uneventful quietude of agriculture, -a life which he thoroughly enjoyed until called away by death, at the age of seventy years. His faithful wife was Sarah Beil, a lady of many estimable qualities. She died at the early age of forty-two years, leaving the following children: Elizabeth, wife of Charles T. Bortz, of Kent, Ohio; David A.; Clara A.; Milton S., of Greenville, Pa.; Ernst H., the subject of these lines; Mary, wife of J. W. Long, of Youngstown, Ohio; and Nevin Deha, of New Brighton, Pa. Mr. Seiple attended the public schools, after which he took a finishing course at Tiehl College. He then began his career in life, accepting a position as clerk in the Greenville National
Bank, where he remained from 1882 to 1884; he then was a clerk for four years, at the National Bank of Beaver County. For the following two years, he was teller in the First National Bank at Rochester, Pa. After this he was with the auditor, the treasurer, and the purchasing agent, in the general offIces of the Pittsburg & Lake Erie Railroad, at Pittsburg. When the Union National Bank of New Brighton was established, April 20, 1891, Mr. Seiple was elected assistant cashier, which position he filled in a highly capable manner. Since his residence in New Brighton, he has taken a very active interest in the progress and development of that town. He purchased the Merrick homestead at the corner of Fourteenth street and Third avenue, and fitted it up handsomely for his family. He is a stockholder of the Standard Horse Nail Company, the Beaver Valley Traction Company, and is treasurer of the Beaver County and New Brighton Building and Loan Association.
On July 9, 1894, the subject of this sketch was joined in marriage with Charlotta Weber, a daughter of Henry Weber, of Meadville, Pa., and their home is brightened by the presence of one daughter, Elizabeth. Mr. Seiple was reared in accordance with the doctrine of the German Reformed church, but is now a supporter of the Presbyterian denomination. Socially, he is a member of the Union Lodge, No. 259, F. & A. M., and also of the Harmony Chapter, No. 206, of the R. A. M. Mr. Seiple has shown himself in all his experience in life, to be capable of conducting his individual business with equally as great success as he has served the public interests. It is needless to say, that our subject is justly entitled to the appreciation of his friends. Unaided, when little more than a youth, he began, in this land of equal opportunities, to achieve that success, which energy and perseverance assure, and to exert that influence which ability and fidelity command. He is the advocate of every cause considered worthy, and has the courage to proclaim his convictions.
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Transcribed by Kate Michaelson