Beaver County Genealogy Trails Henry C. FRY
Biographies
HENRY C. FRY, whose portrait is shown on the opposite page, to whom much credit is due as the principal organizer of the Rochester Tumbler Company, the most extensive manufacturers of pressed and blown tumblers in the world, is a man of thorough business qualifications, and, through his connection with numerous enterprises, has attained a wide reputation. He has done much to aid in the progress of Rochester, as the tumbler works, of which he is president, constitute the principal industry of the borough. He was also the chief organizer of the First National Bank, of Rochester, of which he has been president since its incorporation. He has always evinced the deepest interest in the welfare of his fellowmen, alleviating their distress whenever he could do so, and encouraging them by gentle and sympathizing counsel; for these little kindnesses of word and deed, he will be long remembered by the citizens of the community after his demise. He is respected and loved in Rochester as but few of its residents are. Mr. Fry was born in Lexington, Ky., September 17, 1840, and is a son of Thomas C. and Charlotte Fry.
John Fry, his grandfather, was born in the North of Ireland, and, with his brother, William, emigrated from Dublin to New York City, locating at Wilkesbarre, Pa., soon after, and still later in Washington county, Pennsylvania. The brothers were possessed of ample means and invested extensively in real estate. They were descended from a prominent Irish family, and had, each, an excellent education, for that day. In the early part of the nineteenth century, John Fry moved to Lexington, Ky., and bought a large tract of land, upon which he built a handsome brick mansion. There he resided until his death, at the age of almost ninety years, and was buried in a cemetery on a portion of his own land. The city of Lexington is built on his land, with the exception of some two hundred acres, and the old homestead known as the "Elms" is owned by his descendants. He married Elizabeth Miller, a lady of Scotch birth, and they had three children : William, Eliza and Thomas C.
Thomas C. Fry, the father of Henry C., was born in the city of New York, and during his early years was connected with the firm of Curling, Robinson & Co., glass manufacturers, of Pittsburg. He spent the remainder of his life at the "Elms," at Lexington, Ky. He married Charlotte Fry, who died at the age of fifty-six years, and among their large
family of children, was Henry C., the subject of this record.
Henry C. Fry, endowed with superior talents, a sturdy constitution, and an ambitious temperament, at an early age sought activity in the business world. He was sixteen years old when he went to Pittsburg, bearing good recommendations, and obtained employment as a shipping clerk for the firm of William Phillips & Co., manufacturers of glass. He continued in their service until 1862, when he enlisted in the 15th Reg., Pa. Vol. Cav., as a private. Upon being mustered out of service in 1864, he became a member of the firm of Lippencott, Fry & Co., manufacturers of glass, which was afterward changed to Fry & Scott, and still later, to Fry, Semple & Reynolds. In the spring of 1872, he, with others, went to Rochester and purchased the Lacock property of ten acres, which had formerly been a beautiful maple grove, and a portion of which was, at a later period, the brick-yard of G. Agner. The Rochester Tumbler Company was formed by these gentlemen, and they built a plant on this property,-all of the members of the company taking an active interest in! the work. The company comprised the following well-known business men: H. C. Fry, G. W. Fry, S. M. Kane, William Moulds, S. H. Moulds, Thomas Carr, William Carr, Thomas Matthews, John Hayes, J. H. Lippencott, and Richard Welsh. Two years later their establishment was burned to the ground, but was immediately rebuilt, the following men being then added to the firm : George Searles, Robert Carr, and John Carr.
They manufactured both pressed and blown glass tumblers, and their work met with such success that they have been obliged to enlarge the plant and increase their facilities from time to time, so that it is now the leading establishment of its kind in the world. They ship direct to all parts of the United States, England, and other portions of Europe, South America, Africa, Australia, China and Japan, -sending out from three to ten carloads per day. A switch runs through the middle of the plant, and thus the loading is all done under cover. They do not depend upon others for the material they use in the factory, but make their own barrels, boxes and crates for shipping; they grind clay and make pots, and also manufacture their own molds. They have a private electric light plant, using 1,000 incandescent, lights daily ; they have their own water works, and a tank with a capacity of 3,100 gallons, which is also connected with the city water works; they have an ice house for drinking purposes. They employ a permanent force of twelve hundred men and women, and have an output of 150,000 dozen of blown goods per month, and 150,000 dozen of pressed goods. Each department of the works is kept at a high state of efficiency,-nearing perfection,-as the most skilled men in the business are in their employ. While the best of order is maintained throughout their establishment, each employee, from the skilled cut-glass worker to the apprentice, feels free from constraint, and wears a contented expression upon his countenance. The firm has been considerably changed since it was firstorganized, and as it exists today, is: H. C. Fry, president; William Moulds, general manager; S. H. Moulds, assistant manager; J. H. Fry, secretary; and Clayton Vance, treasurer.
In June, 1883, Henry C. Fry actively assisted in the organization of the First National Bank, of Rochester, with a capital of $50,000, and it has been a successful institution from the start.-having at the present time a surplus of $40,000. The subject of this writing has served as president since its inception, and his skilful management has been a prime factor in its prosperity. J. T. Mansfield is vice-president, and T. H. Fry is cashier. Henry C. Fry is also a director and stockholder of the Olive Stove Works, and of the Rochester Electric Light Company, of which he was at one time president. In 1876, Mr. Fry built his residence on a part of the original Pinney estate, one of the most desirable locations in the borough, situated on the corner of New York and West Jackson streets. At one time he owned the adjoining lots, having a large and beautiful lawn, and also the corner property opposite his residence, on which there is located a noted spring which furnishes his house with an abundance of pure water. The spring has quite a history, and is well remembered by the early settlers in that vicinity. Indians were wont to camp about it, and it was known as the "Cure All." It is now under cover, and a beautiful lawn and vineyard add to the delightful spot. Mr. Fry is a man of pleasing personality and great strength of character, one of his chief characteristics being to make others happy.
The subject of this biography formed a matrimonial alliance with Emma Matthews, of Pittsburg, a woman attractive in her many virtues, who, by her kindliness of heart, made friends with everyone. She was a loving wife and mother, and their home was one of the greatest happiness until she closed her eyes in final sleep, in 1884. Five children resulted from this union : Harry C., associated with the Rochester Tumbler Company, who married Rachel Power; Clara, the wife of H. J. Sage; Gertrude, who married A. M. Jenkinson; J. Howard, who is also identified with the company; and Mabel, who is attending Vassar College. Mr. Fry formed a second alliance, with Belle McClintock, a woman be-loved for her many excellent traits of character. He is a faithful member, and a liberal financial supporter, of the Baptist church, in which he has served as a trustee and deacon. For the past twenty-four years he has served as superintendent of the Sunday School.
WILLIAM R. HAZEN, who is widely known throughout Western Pennsylvania as superintendent of the Beaver Valley Traction Company, has efficiently served that company since 1885, when horse cars were still used. He is a son of Isaac and Mary (Olinger) Hazen, and was born in North Sewickley township, Beaver county, Pa., in 1862.
James Hazen, the grandfather of William R., was one of the pioneers of Beaver county, moving here when it was a complete wilderness and settling in North Sewickley town-ship. Clearing a place, he built a log house and barns, and lived there the remainder of his life. Among the children born to him and his wife Jerusha, was Isaac, father of the subject of this writing.
Isaac Hazen was born in North Sewickley township and received his intellectual training in the public schools. He learned the occupation of a farmer and assisted his father upon the farm for some time; he then purchased a tract of eighty acres for himself, clearing it and constructing thereon good substantial buildings. He improved the place, placing it under a high state of cultivation, and lived there throughout his life. His wife's maiden name was Mary Olinger, and by her he had seven children, as follows : Amariah (Fogie) ; William R.; Laura (Thompson) ; Nettie (Nye); Violetta (Miller); Lizzie (Smith) ; and Howard. Politically, Mr. Hazen was a Democrat and served as school director. He was a Baptist in his religious views.
William R. Hazen was given a common school education and spent his younger days in assisting his father upon the farm, but in 1880 he removed to Beaver Falls and adopted a mechanical career. He was naturally adapted to this and acquired a high degree of skill at it. He was first employed in the cutlery works, then in the axe factory, and later in the file factory. He continued in the file works until 1885, when he became interestedin the street car company at Bearer Falls, and after being connected with the road for one year he was given charge of the stables. He continued in that capacity until 1892, when the horses were supplanted by electricity, and the road was transformed into an electric road. Until the road was placed in good working order he served as conductor for two months, and as such met with a very serious accident, which compelled him to lay off for one year. Upon his return to duty, he was appointed to the post of car dispatcher and served in that position until 1898, when he was promoted to the office of general superintendent of the road. The responsibilities of the position are many and arduous, but he has ever discharged the duties of his trust to the best of his ability, and to the entire satisfaction of the officials of the company. The lines over which he has supervision extend from Morado Park to the lower end of Beaver, Pa., being mostly double track and continuous rails. There are fifty-five men in his employ. The power-house is in Beaver Falls, a one-story brick structure, with dimensions of 120x60 feet, and was built in 1892. It is equipped with two very powerful Buckeye engines of 140 and 125 horse power respectively, with four dynamos of immense power, and is fitted with the Thompson-Houston equipment. It also supplies power for the Patterson Heights Inclined Electric Road, and for the Beaver & Vanport line. The car barn is located in Rochester township in a very pretentious building of vitrified brick, the dimensions being 260x120 feet, and besides
storing all of the cars, it contains the superintendent's office, the general offices and the mess room for employees. Mr. Hazen resides in a very desirable home at No. 271 College avenue, which he owns. He is a man of pleasing character and his nature abounds in good will toward his employees and his fellow-citizens, by whom he is held in the highest esteem.
William R. Hazen was united in marriage with Irene Jackson, who was born in Beaver Falls, where she attended the public schools. She was graduated from the Beaver Falls High School, and then taught school until her marriage. They became the parents of three children, namely: Earle and Lyle, twins, born in 1891; and Fern, who was born in 1892. Politically, Mr. Hazen is a Democrat, and is a member of the council from College Hill Borough, and also a school director. In religious views he is a Baptist. Fraternally, he is a member of the Knights of the Golden Eagle, and the K. of L.
GAWN WARD, a very prominent citizen of Beaver Falls, Beaver county, Pa., was for many years one of the most active business men in that locality, being proprietor of a hardware store just prior to his retirement on January 1, 1899. He came to the borough when its population
numbered less than three thousand, but having entire confidence in its future, he bought
considerable property in what is now the, heart of the town, and conducted the first store in the section. He became a promoter of various industries, and has ever striven for the best interests of Beaver Falls. It is to the efforts of such men that the prosperity of the borough is due.
Mr. Ward is a son of James and Margaret (Cleland) Ward, and was born in County Down, Ireland, in 1836. His grandfather was Robert Ward, who was born in England and moved to the North of Ireland when a young man, buying fifty acres of rich farm land. He engaged in general farming and devoted ten acres to the culture of moss. He was the father of two children by his first marriage, James and Arthur.
James Ward was born in County Down, Ireland, and was instructed in the common schools, after which he bought a small farm of twenty acres. He married Margaret Cleland, a daughter of Gawn and Agnes Cleland, members of an ancient Scottish family which settled in the North of Ireland, and they had ten children, as follows : Robert; Hugh; Arthur; William; John; Agnes; one who died unnamed; Gawn ; Thomas; and Matthew. All the boys took to farming and the two girls died in infancy. In 1844, James Ward came to America with his family, locating in New York City, where for sixteen years he con-ducted a bakery and grocery store with considerable success. In 1860, he removed to Allegheny City, Pa., where he kept a grocery store for the balance of his life. His death occurred in 1887, and in him the city lost a man prominently identified with its business interests, and one who was by everybody highly esteemed. He was a Republican in politics, whilst in religious attachments, he was formerly a Presbyterian, but at the time of his demise, a Methodist.
Gawn Ward was instructed in the public schools of New York City, after which he assisted his father in the store, thus at an early age acquiring a thorough knowledge of business methods. When he moved to Allegheny City with his father, he conducted a store on his own account, and with good results, for a period of nine years. In 1871, he located at Beaver Falls, which was then a flourishing place of about 3,000 inhabitants. With remarkable foresight, Mr. Ward noted the direction in which the town would grow, and purchased a piece of ground in the heart of the present business district, being the first man to open up business there. Merchants in the lower end of the town were accustomed to joke him about being located in the country, but to the intense satisfaction of Mr. Ward, the wisdom of his choice was brought home, to them. The men who laughed began to regret that they had not likewise invested, when they saw the center of business gradually move in that direction, and they were reluctant to pay prices much in advance of former valuations. Mr. Ward started in a frame building on Main street, now Seventh avenue, between Tenth and Eleventh streets, and there were only two or three other houses in the vicinity, including the Economy Bank. Almost immediately the town began to build up, new factories were located there, and business was enlivened throughout that section of the county. The axe manufacturing establishment was started, also the Emerson, Smith & Co. Saw Works; the P. & L. E. R. R. came through, and numerous other enterprises started. Mr. Ward became a promoter, and was for nine years treasurer, of the Co-operative Stove Foundry, during which time he also kept a general store. The grade of the street was cut down and he erected a brick store building, which he still owns, and which is occupied by a drug store. He then dropped the general store and conducted a grocery store exclusively, but a short time subsequent thereto, he, in partnership with J. D. Perrot and Jacob Ecki, bought the Howard Stove Works. After running that for some years, he sold his interest to his partners and engaged in the hardware business, having a very large trade. He dealt in builders' supplies, house furnishings, hardware and stoves, paints and glass, and for many years was a special agent in the territory, for Baldwin & Graham's supplies, Frankie steel ranges, and Alaska refrigerators. On January 1, 1899, after a most active career, in which he acquired a handsome competency, including considerable valuable property, he retired to spend the remaining years of his life in the enjoyment of a well-earned rest. He therefore sold his stock, rented his store, and took up his residence in his beautiful house located on Eighth avenue, above Twelfth street, which he built in 1896. It is one of the most striking residences in Beaver Falls, and is built from plans, of his own. Mr. Ward owns most of the stores on one side of Seventh avenue, between Tenth and Eleventh streets,-among the best known being the offices of the Union Water Company, the Western Union Telegraph office, Schaefer's jewelry store, Nye's barber shop, a drug store and a tailor store. He also owns a corner dwelling with an adjoining office, the hardware store which he conducted for so many years, a building on Twelfth street between Ninth and Tenth avenues, and some very choice building lots in Sewickley borough, Allegheny county, Pennsylvania.
In New York, Mr. Ward was united in matrimonial bonds with Margaret Orr, a daughter of William and Dorothy Orr, who was born and educated in the North of Ire-land, and they became the parents of ten children, as follows: Dorothy; Thomas W., who is engaged in business with his father; Margaret (Barnes), now deceased; Charles, a machinist by trade; James G., who is connected with the Heat & Light Company, of Allegheny City; William H., who was also in business with his father; Arthur, who is in the employ of the Union Drawn Steel Company; John E., who follows the trade of a machinist; and Agnes (Walters), whose husband was a prominent jeweler of Beaver Falls, and is now deceased. Politically, our subject is a Republican, and has been a member of the council for seven years, but has declined all other offices. Religiously, he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and is a trustee, steward, and treasurer of the board. He belongs to the A. O. U. W.
WILLIAM M. DONALDSON; one of the foremost business men of Big Beaver township, Beaver county, Pa., has for some years discharged the multitudinous duties of general manager of the firm of H. Donaldson's Sons, manufacturers of white lead kegs, and general coopers, and in this capacity he has displayed unusual ability. He is also a member of the firm and the plant under his control is quite an extensive one, the daily output numbering 700 kegs of various sizes. He is a son of Henry and Ann (Proctor) Donaldson, and was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., January 25, 1849.
His grandfather was Arthur Donaldson, who was of Scotch parentage. He was a cooper by trade and made that his life work. He died at an early age of cholera, when that dread disease was epidemic. He reared four sons: Joseph, a cooper by trade, who was a tank builder for war vessels during the war, but spent his last days in Connecticut in agricultural pursuits, dying in 189o; Henry, who was the father of William M. ; George, who was engaged in coopering; and Elisha, also a cooper, in the employ of the Atlantic White Lead Company.
Henry Donaldson was born in New York in 1816, and was educated in the public schools, receiving a good mental training despite the fact that his opportunities were very limited. Like his father and brothers, he undertook coopering and entered the employ of Christopher Tyler, a New York refiner, who established a refinery in Beaver county, having been given entire charge of the cooper plant. He held this position until the company was absorbed by the Standard Oil Company, and in 1878 he started in business for himself as a manufacturer of white lead kegs, which were then made entirely by hand. He was a very progressive man, and as new improvements appeared, he was among the first to adopt them and test their merit. He started a steam plant in 1879, and as his sons grew up they were instructed in the art of his trade, becoming as thorough workmen as himself. He died in 1890, after a long and prosperous life. His wife was Ann Proctor, who was born in England, and accompanied her parents to this country when she was yet a young girl. This union resulted in the following offspring: Henry M.; Edwin Miller; Jane A.; William M., the ;subject hereof; Emma F. (Piper) ; Theresa E.; Marcus W.; and Edgar; the three last named are deceased. Henry M., who is a member of H. Donaldson's Sons, was born in Brooklyn, in 1845, and has always been engaged at his present occupation. He is a Prohibitionist, but was formerly a supporter of the Republican party. He is a school director and a member of the borough council. Fraternally, he is a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows orders, and also of the Knights of Pythias. He married Ella McCowin, a daughter of Thompson McCowin, of Enon Valley, and they have four children : Harry, aged twenty years, who works in the shops; Maud, Ethel, and Hazel. Edwin Miller, another member of the firm of H. Donaldson's Sons, was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., in 1847, and was instructed in the public schools. He married Mary Davis, and they have three children: Gertrude, Charles, and Byron. Religiously, he is a member of the M. E. church. He is a Republican in politics, and is a member of the Odd Fellows order, and of the Knights of Pythias. Henry Donaldson was a very devout Christian and was connected with the Congregational church until 1873, when he became a member of the Darlington Presbyterian church and so continued until his death. He was an Abolitionist and a Republican, serving as burgess two terms, as school director, and as a member of the borough council. He was a member of the Odd Fellows order.
William M. Donaldson removed to New Galilee in 1861, with his parents, and attended the public schools of New Castle, after which he entered the cooper shops of his father, with whom he was associated until the death of the latter. The works were left to the children, the three sons purchased the interests of their sisters, and the name was changed to H. Donaldson's Sons. William M. attends to the financial affairs of the firm, does the buying and selling, and has entire charge of the affairs of the plant. A great deal of responsibility attaches to the position, but he has been equal to its requirements as the prosperous condition of the establishment indicates. The business was first carried on in a little shop across the street from where the main building is now located, and the work was all done by hand. What a wonderful change has been wrought! The main building is a two-story affair, and is so equipped with machinery that it is a difficult matter to pass through it. Its dimensions are 40 X 25 feet. On the second floor is the machinery for cutting, planing and manufacturing heads. The kegs for white lead are made of white oak and mostly contain 25, and 100 pounds; the firm also make kegs for cider, pickles and vinegar. The boiler room is an annex to the main building, and contains a 25-horse power boiler; on the first floor are machines for sawing to length, ripping to width, planing and jointing. The kegs are set up by hand and after the hoops are put on, they are taken to the pressing machine for drawing together. They are then put in lathes to be turned smooth, and are headed up and finished. The 100-pound kegs are made in the building across the road, whose dimensions are 26 X 16 feet. A portion of this building is used as a store house. The firm employs a force of twenty men and turn out 700 kegs per day, shipping mostly to the Sterling White Lead Company, of New Kensington, Pa., and the W. W. Lawrence paint and Enamel Company, of Pittsburg.
Mr. Donaldson was united in marriage with Jemima Piper, a daughter of Edward and Emma (Proctor) Piper, both of whom were natives of England. Jemima was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and her union with our subject resulted in the birth of the following children: William H.; Lillie M.; Elsie P.; Nellie P.; and Gladys M. William H. is an accomplished musician, and a graduate of Dana Musical Institute, of Warren, Ohio. He has superior talent in that line, and expects to make music his profession, a field in which he gives promise of attaining prominence as a director and composer. Lillie M. is a student of Darlington Academy, and Gladys M. was born in 1897. Religiously, Mr. Donaldson is a member of Darlington Presbyterian church, of which he was a trustee for six years. He is an independent Republican, and is auditor and also a member of the council and of the school board.
Charles W. KLEIN
CHARLES W. KLEIN, the genial and efficient secretary and treasurer of the Co-operative Flint Glass Company of Beaver Falls, Pa., whose portrait appears on the opposite page, is another notable example of what may be accomplished by perseverance and strict attention to business. The duties that have fallen to his lot during his unusually useful life, have been performed with a cheerfulness and steadiness of purpose that have made his career a source of encouragement to others, an example for imitation. Charles W. Klein was born in Allegheny City, Pa., November 15, 1862, and was educated in the schools of Beaver Falls, and at Iron City College, in Pittsburg. While still attending school, he began to learn the trade of a stove mounter, by working in the evenings, on Saturdays, and during vacations. In 1878, young Klein became bookkeeper for the Howard Stove Company, remaining with that company about three months, when he was offered a better situation as bookkeeper of the Co-operative Flint Glass Company
(Limited), which he at once accepted. He continued thus until the fall of 1886, - accepting at that time a position as business manager for the Columbia Glass Company, of Findlay, Ohio. In 1888 the Findlay Flint Glass Co. was organized, and Mr. Klein was made secretary of the organization. In June, 1891, the factory of that company was destroyed by fire, and was not rebuilt.br>
After closing up the business of the company, Mr. Klein became secretary and treasurer of the Co-operative Flint Glass Co., of Beaver Falls. That change occurred January 18, 1892, and the position is still retained by him. He has charge of all the business of the company, and manages all their affairs. In business life, Mr. Klein is regarded as a man of extremely good judgment. He realizes fully the many responsibilities which rest upon his shoulders, but performs the many daily duties incumbent upon him with a tact and ease that result only from long experience. November 4, 1886, Marguerite McClelland, a daughter of William McClelland, of Shoustown, Pa., became the wife of Mr. Klein, and their union is blessed with three children, whose names are: Leta, now deceased; Madeline, born January 4, 1893; and Gretchen, also deceased.
Charles G. Klein, father of the subject of this record, was born in Baden, Germany, June 17, 1833. Early in life, he became apprenticed and learned the blacksmith's trade, which occupation he followed for some years. In 1853, Mr. Klein came to America, and located in Pittsburg, where he began working at the trade of stove mounting, in Bradey & Sons Foundry, and remained with them until 1868. He then removed to Beaver Falls, Pa., and engaged with the Howard Stove Company, where he is still busily employed. He was united in marriage with Catherine Kirsch, a native of Wurtemberg, Germany. Six children blessed their union, namely: Catherine, now deceased; Charles W., the subject of this sketch; Louis F.; Elizabeth, wife of Joseph M. Vanderwort, of Beaver Falls; Walter G.; and Lillian.
Charles G. Klein is foreman of the mounting department of the Howard Stove Company. In his political views, he is in accord with the Republicans, but although an active worker for his party, he has never cared to accept office. In a religious connection, he is identified with the German Lutheran church.
For a man whose life has been as busy as his, the subject of this narrative has done much outside the sphere of his regular duties. It is a matter of general knowledge that in his official capacities, he has ever been all that the public could desire. By the corporation which he represents, he is trusted implicitly. On the social side of his nature, he possesses all those traits which win and hold the friendship of all who come within their influence. Mr. Klein is president of the Dime Savings & Loan Association of Beaver Falls, and has been one of the directors ever since its organization; he has been, since 1894, the secretary of the board of directors of the Colombian Building & Loan Association; he is also' president of the local board of the Union Dime Permanent Loan Association of Rochester, New York. Mr. Klein is an
active member, and a trustee, of the United Presbyterian church. Fraternally, he belongs to the order of Elks. In politics, he is a stanch Republican. He was elected to the council in 1896, and re-elected in 1899. In 1898, he was chairman of that body.
JOSEPH H. EVANS. This leading and representative citizen of Beaver, Pa., is well known as one of the most extensive oil producers in Western Pennsylvania, and has built up by energy and strict integrity an excellent reputation, and amassed a handsome fortune. Mr. Evans is truly the architect of his own fortune, and his present enviable position is due wholly to his
thrift, foresight, and good business methods. Few men so completely hold the confidence and esteem of the public as he, and his standing is deservedly high. He was born May 16, 1851, in Venango county, Pa., and is a son of John and Mary (Kiser) Evans.
John Evans left Westmoreland county, Pa., while still a young man, and located in Clarion county, where his marriage with Mary Kiser occurred. Mrs. Evans is a daughter of Joseph Kiser and has proved herself a valuable aid to her husband in his various business enterprises. John Evans was a very industrious man and for many years followed lumbering and rafting, becoming an expert river pilot. After amassing a considerable sum of money, he purchased a tract of timber land and engaged in clearing it, - making the most he could from the lumber. This tract was situated along the banks of Paint Creek, Clarion county, where Mr. Evans also built a saw mill and was occupied not only in manufacturing lumber from his own timber, but in doing similar work for his neighbors. His mill was largely patronized and he continued to operate it until 1869, when he sold out and removed to Elk River, Sherburne county, Minn., where he purchased a fine farm and followed agricultural pursuits the remainder of his life. There his death took place at the age of sixty-five years. His widow still survives him, and now resides in Clarion county, Pennsylvania. Mr. Evans in his business ventures prospered even beyond his expectations, and at the time of his death, the large and valuable estate he left insured a competency to the family of loved ones left behind. The following children were born to him and his devoted wife, and they all grew to manhood and womanhood: Mrs. E. A. Clelland; Mrs. Emily Deekey; Mrs. Sarah J. Shaw; Mrs. Susan J. Wallace, deceased; Bradford; John Henry; Joseph H., the subject of this sketch; Charles Wesley, deceased; and Harrison Lincoln, also deceased.
Joseph H. Evans attended public school until he attained the age of sixteen years. Then he began manual labor by drawing oil in barrels, from Shamburg to Pithole. Subsequently he went to Minnesota with his father, and engaged in the lumber business, as a partner in the firm of Chase & Pillsbury, of Minneapolis. The company contracted for lumber jobs and continued in that
line of work until 1876, when Mr. Evans withdrew and returned to the Keystone State, settling in Elk City, where he formed a company, styled Kiser & Evans, leased his grandfather's farm, and began putting down oil wells. His first well yielded 125 barrels per day, bringing $4.25 per barrel, and proved to be one of the best wells in Clarion county. In 1877, Mr. Evans sold his interest in this enterprise and operated oil wells at Bradford, McKean county, Pa., until 1886. The following three years he was associated with Mr. Fitzgibbons; since which period he has been a member of the Devonian Oil Co., which consists of the following men: C. B. Collins; J. R. Leonard; J. D. Downing; and J. H. Evans. The company owns some 300 wells in Ohio, Indiana, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania, all in successful operation. In 1882, Mr. Evans became associated with the Bradford Exchange, and speculated in oil some four years. He is a member of the Victor Oil & Gas Co.; the Superior Oil Co.; he is also a stockholder of the Beaver Mining Company.
Mr. Evans can be found at his office on the corner of Wood and Fourth streets, in Pittsburg, where all his business is transacted. In 1890, he went to Beaver, Pa., and purchased a fine residence on College avenue. This residence was built by Mr. Tallow. After visiting many places in Western Pennsylvania, Mr. Evans wisely decided that the borough of Beaver, with its convenient location, its fine streets and splendid school, was the most suitable location to be found for a permanent home. In 1895, he purchased the corner lot of Wilson avenue and Third street, a very desirable location, and built one of the finest modern brick residences in this part of the state. The brick for this dwelling was manufactured by the Alluma Shell Brick Company, of which company Mr. Evans is a stock-holder; it does quite an extensive business in manufacturing all kinds of pressed brick. In addition to the property above described, Mr. Evans owns several lots and tenement houses in Beaver, and has taken an active interest in the progress and development of his adopted town.
GEORGE W. MACKALL, who has acted in the capacity of prothonotary of Beaver County, Pa., for many years, is an active citizen of the borough of Beaver. He is interested in various enterprises in the town, including the well-known Beaver Signal Manufacturing Company, and other concerns of equal note. He is of sturdy Scotch-Irish extraction, and was born in Green township, Beaver county, July 12, 1842, - his parents being James and Mary (Foster) Mackall.
George W. Mackall's grandfather was Benjamin Mackall, a native of northern Ireland, who, at the age of twenty-one years, was commissioned a captain in the Colonial Army, and served throughout the major part of the War of Independence. He came to Georgetown, Beaver county, in 1802, and was there engaged in farming; his wife was Miss Rebecca Dawson, by whom he reared a family of six children, as follows: Jane; James; Thomas; Nellie; John D.; and Samuel. James Mackall was born at Point-of-Rocks, Md., January 16, 1788. In 1817, he bought two hundred and forty-four acres of land and began agricultural pursuits; he made all the present improvements upon this land, and was recognized as an enterprising and progressive farmer. He was a Whig and a Republican in politics, and served as county commissioner. Religiously, he was a member of the Episcopal church. In 1815, he married Mary Foster, a daughter of Thomas Foster; she was born November 7, 1797, and died November 22, 1860, her husband dying August 20, 1874. Their union was blessed by the following children: Thomas; Rebecca; Benjamin; Phoebe; Jane; John D.; Mary;
Samuel; James; Sarah Ellen; and George Washington. Rebecca married Jesse Kinsey; Benjamin wedded Mary Dolby; Phoebe was the wife of Milton Calhoun; Jane was joined in wedlock with James Mackall; John D. married Harriet A. Cornell; Samuel, a farmer of Green township, Beaver county, married first Sarah Harvey and had three children, - she died and he married Jennie Dawson; James, of Georgetown, Pa., married Sidney A. Miller; Sarah Ellen wedded Harrison Dawson; and George Washington is the subject hereof. He has but two brothers living, - James and Samuel.
George W. Mackall attended the public schools, and at fourteen years of age became a clerk in a store at Hookstown, Beaver county, for John Sterling; he later accepted a like position with Joseph Hall, and then with M. L. Christler. Like many other boys of his day, he was fond of river life, and accepted a position as cabin boy on one of the boats that plied up and down the Ohio River; after several years of this life, he became a second-mate, but becoming tired of that life, he engaged in boating coal down the river, for a period of six years; he then became a contractor for oil drilling in Ohio township and vicinity, after which he conducted a store at Glasgow, Pa., and also served as justice of the peace of that village for five years. In 1887, he went to New Brighton, Pa., and became connected with the publication of the Tribune. In August, 1892, he was elected to the office of prothonotary of Beaver county, which made it necessary for him to come to Beaver, where he has since resided. Mr. Mackall discharged the official duties of that position in such a thorough manner that he was re-elected. Since the closing of his term, he has been living in retirement. He is a stockholder in the Beaver Signal Manufacturing Company; he resides in a fine house, situated at the end of Fourth street. The subject of this sketch participated in the War of the Rebellion, having enlisted, in 1863, in Company H, 56th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf.; at the expiration of his term he became a member of Company H, 5th Reg., Heavy Artillery; at the close of the war, he had been promoted to be a sergeant.
Mr. Mackall was wedded to Miss Mary Jane Calhoun, who was born in 1845, - a daughter of James and Eliza (Gamble) Calhoun. Her father was a ship carpenter, and was born in Allegheny county, Pa., but spent most of his life in Beaver county, building boats. He was the father of the following children: Seraphina S., the wife of D. S. Hamilton; Nancy Ann, deceased; Ellen, first wedded to J. McKee, and later to D. A. Jolly; Lucinda, the wife of Abner Martin; Priscilla, wedded to John Laughlin; Peggie Ann, deceased; Isabella, deceased, and Elizabeth, twins, - the latter wedded to John Strain; William G., deceased; Mary Jane, the wife of the subject hereof; and Arvilla, the wife of S. L. Dawson. Mr. and Mrs. Mackall are the parents of three children: Howard C.; Mary Eliza; and George Raymond. Howard C. served as deputy prothonotary for his father, and was married to Roberta Waterson; one child, Mary Addie, has been born to them. Mary Eliza is the wife of 'Wilbert W. Knowles, clerk for the P. & L. E. R. R., and has a son, Duane M. George Raymond is attending Beaver College. Mr. Mackall is a member of the E. M. Stanton Post, G. A. R., No. 208, of New Brighton; of the Sr. O. U. A. M., No. 301; and of the Elks, of Rochester, No. 283. Religiously, Mr. Mackall and family are members of the Methodist church. Mr. Mackall's portrait is shown on the opposite page.
ALEXANDER F. REID, a very prominent merchant of Beaver county, has an excellent store at New Galilee, carrying a complete line of groceries, hardware, boots and shoes, hats and caps, household furnishings, drugs, agricultural implements, and, in fact, almost any article for which there is a demand. He is a man of enterprise, and his continued efforts to accommodate the citizens of the borough, and the courtesy which he extends to his patrons, have won for him public favor. He is a native of Ireland, having been born in Belfast, November 15, 1838, and is a son of William and Maria (Findlay) Reid.
William Reid, the father of Alexander F., was born in Belfast, Ireland, in 1797, and there he received his intellectual training and adopted the occupation of a farmer, which he followed throughout his life. He was joined in the holy bonds of matrimony with Maria Findlay, a daughter of William Findlay, of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and they reared the following children: Eliza (Reed) deceased; John, whose business was that of a linen shipper; William, who is living a retired life in Pittsburg; Jane (Little), deceased; Anna (Williams); Maria, deceased; Alexander F., the gentleman whose name heads these lines; Charles, who has charge of a department in a linen manufacturing establishment; and Russell, whose death occurred at the early age of ten years. Religiously, Mr. Reid was a Presbyterian. He was called into the unknown world, in 1857, at the age of sixty years.
Alexander F. Reid, after completing his mental training in the public schools of Ireland, served a four years' apprenticeship in a grocery and hardware store. In the year of 1863, he came to America and landed in New York City; but a short time thereafter, he removed to Pittsburg. He subsequently worked in Sharpsburg about two years, and in 1870 located in New Galilee, Beaver County, Pa., where he engaged in business for himself, - renting a place for about eight years. In 1878, he built his present store, a two-story building, with dimensions of 80x24 feet, in addition to which there is a warehouse and a basement. In this he conducted his store in a very successful manner until 1883. His wife's health having failed in that year, Mr. Reid removed with his family to California, and remained there two years, during which time he became a competent druggist and conducted a drug store. Upon returning to New Galilee, in 1885, he resumed business in his former location, and has since conducted one of the neatest and best arranged stores in that section. Being a man of exceptional business qualifications, and having had wide experience in his business, he realizes the wants of his customers and satisfies them in every way consistent with his own interests. He is a stockholder in the Rochester National Bank. He has the respect of his fellow-citizens to a high degree, and they are proud to acknowledge themselves his friends.
In 1865, at Sharpsburg, Alexander F. Reid was united in marriage with Mary E. Henry, a daughter of Wilson and Eliza (Garvin) Henry, and a granddaughter of William Henry. William Henry was born in Ireland, and when a child, came to this country with his parents, where they bought a tract of land in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania. They cleared this land of its timber, and erected log houses and barns. William acquired property of his own, engaged in lumbering and also worked on the river. He followed that and farming all of his life. He married Miss Borland and they reared five children, of whom Wilson was the second. Wilson Henry, the father of Mrs. Reid, attended the schools of Westmoreland county, Pa., and during his youthful days worked in the mines and on the river. He rented a farm near Sharpsburg for some years, and then bought one of two hundred acres, in 1863. He moved upon it in 1870, and was extensively engaged in dairying, fruit growing and general farming, which he continued throughout his active life, and became a very prosperous man. He was a Republican in politics. Religiously, he was a Presbyterian, and was ruling elder for a number of years. Mr. Henry married Eliza Garvin, a daughter of Joseph Garvin, and they reared eleven children, as follows: Samuel, an insurance agent at Beaver; Joseph G. (deceased), a railroad agent all of his life; William (deceased), a farmer and missionary of West Virginia; Sarah J. (Hodil); Mary E., the wife of the subject hereof; Rev. Benjamin C., D. D., who was graduated at Washington and Jefferson College, and received the degree of D. D. from Princeton University, and who has been a missionary to China for twenty-five years, - returning home but twice; Nancy G. (Wetzig); Eleanor (Brown); Wilson, a fruit grower in California; James S., a journalist in Washington, D. C.; and Anna M., who is now living at home.
Mrs. Reid was born at Turtle Creek, Pa., attended the schools of Sharpsburg, and was a pupil of Sharpsburg Academy. She was married in 1865, and they reared eight children, as follows: Anna M.; Jane E.; William H.; Charles W.; Agnes Eleanor; Alexander R.; James McArthur; and Benjamin Clair. Anna M. (Schueler) was born September 12, 1866, graduated at Geneva College, and finished her education in a private institution in California, under Prof. Conklin. Jane E., born January 29, 1869, attended the public schools and also completed her intellectual training under Prof. Conklin; she married a Mr. Miller. William H. was born April 1, 1871, and died in February, 1877. Charles W. was born August 13, 1874, and died February 9, 1877. Agnes Eleanor was born June 10, 1876, attended the public schools, and then took a course in Slippery Rock Normal School, from which she was graduated, in 1895. She then taught for two years in the borough schools, and entered the School of Designing, where she had the honor of winning the class medal, - a high testimonial to her skill and talent. In 1896, she was obliged to give up her studies on account of ill-health. Alexander R. was born July 19, 1878, and is studying medicine, being a member of the graduating class of 1901. James McArthur was born May 20, 1881, and is a student in the preparatory department of Geneva College. Benjamin Clair was born October 16, 1884, and is attending the public schools.
The subject of this biography is a devout Presbyterian, and is very active in church work, having been a ruling elder since 1883. He is a trustee of the church. Politically, he is a Republican.
WALTER C. JONES is one of the most prominent and popular young business men of Beaver county, and is esteemed and much respected by the citizens of Beaver Falls, where he is recognized as a valuable member of that community. He has always been connected with various iron and steel industries, and has gradually worked his way tip to his present high position, - that of general superintendent of the American Steel & Wire Company, in which capacity he has efficiently served since April, 1898.
Mr. Jones was born in Zanesville, Ohio, and obtained his elementary education at Newark, Ohio, which was supplemented by a course of study in the schools of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. In 1888, he accepted a position as general shipping clerk and assistant to the superintendent of the old Braddock Wire Company, of Rankin, Pa., - living in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. He remained in the service of that company until the year 1895, when he was transferred to the position of secretary of the Consolidated Steel & Wire Company at Beaver Falls, Pa., which company was the owner of both plants. Mr. Jones occupied that position until April, 1898, when he was promoted to general superintendent of both the office and the mills, and now has charge of all the business transacted at the great plant in Beaver Falls. This immense plant covers twenty-three acres of ground, upon which are five main buildings, with the following departments, - rod, wire, barbed-wire, galvanizing, and nail, - and when in full operation, gives employment to about nine hundred men. Mr. Jones commands the respect and good-will of the many employees under his supervision, as well as the confidence and esteem of his superior officers; he is a very energetic young man, full of business, thoroughly understands all lines of the iron industry, and is fully competent to fulfill all the duties of his present high position.
Mr. Jones formed a matrimonial alliance with Miss Ruth Mattern, of Pittsburg, Pa., and their home has been blessed by the birth of one son, Robert. He is a faithful member of the Royal Arcanum and of the Heptasophs.
DR. JOHN J. ALLEN, a gentleman of high educational attainments, and a well-known educator for many years, has achieved particular success in the field of medicine, having a large and lucrative practice in Monaca and vicinity. He is a son of Robert and Elizabeth (Wiley) Allen, and was born in County Meath, Ireland, February 22, 1859.
Robert Allen, the father of John J., was born in County Antrim, Ireland, and was the youngest son of a family of thirteen children. He was fortunate in his boyhood, as he was given a good education to fit him for the station of a country gentleman. After his marriage and the birth of the subject of this sketch, the family met with reverses, and he came to the United States, settling in Beaver county, Pennsylvania. He was joined in marriage with Elizabeth Wiley, who was horn and educated in County Meath, Ireland, and they became the parents of three children: John J., the gentleman whose name appears at the head of this narrative; Robert H., a farmer by vocation; and Emily K. W. (Moore). The two last named were born after Mr. Allen moved to this country.
Dr. John J. Allen, who was three months old when he was brought to this country by his parents, has risen to a high station in life entirely through his individual efforts. A series of adverse events prevented his family from giving him an education, and at the immature age of eight and one-half years, he left home to seek a livelihood, obtaining a position on the farm of D. W. Scott. He was very ambitious and remained with him until he was nineteen years of age, working upon the farm during his summer months and attending school during the winter. Dissatisfied with the life he was leading, and feeling confident that better things were in store for him if he would but strive for them, he became impressed with the necessity of a good education. He gave tip farming and entered Piersol's Academy, taking a normal course in order to fit himself for a teacher's work. He was subsequently a teacher in the New Sewickley township schools, for one year, principal of the schools of Industry, for two years, and then principal of the North Ward School of New Brighton, for two years; at the same time he was instructor in the night school,-working hard and conscientiously. Giving up teaching for the time being, he entered Geneva College, at Beaver Falls, taking an eclectic course, during which time he competed for a permanent state certificate, and was successful. He was elected principal of the Glenfield schools of Allegheny county, Pa., and at the same time finished a business curriculum in Curry University of Pittsburg,-also serving as bookkeeper in the music store of Mellor & Hohne. This is but one evidence of the industrious life he has led, but with eyes fixed upon the distant goal,which he was slowly but surely approaching, he would allow no obstacle to stop him. He was re-elected principal of the Glenfield schools and also of the Bellevue schools, and chose the latter connection as being the more desirable of the two. For three years he was the incumbent of that position, also teaching night school in New Brighton. During the latter part of this period, he desired to satisfy his ambition to become a physician, and read medicine under the tutelage of Dr. James McCann. He then entered the medical department of the Western University of Pennsylvania, and after his graduation in 1890, began practice at Phillipsburg, now Monaca. His choice of fields was a wise one as there is no borough in the state in a more flourishing condition or one which gives more promise of future growth. He has since been located there and his practice has grown apace with the town, his patients including many of the best citizens of the community. As he was eminently successful as an educator, so has he been as a doctor. He at once won the confidence of the citizens in a professional way, and they have since become his friends.
Dr. Allen was joined in hymeneal bonds with Jeannette N. Armstrong, a native of Beaver county, and a daughter of John Armstrong, of Brighton township. She is an accomplished musician and art student, having pursued a course at the Pittsburg School of Design. They have two children: Harold A., born December 24, 1895; and Jeannette Juay, born December 26, 1898. The residence in which the Doctor lives is the finest on the south side, and is a feature of the town. It is a handsome three-story building of fourteen rooms, being constructed of buff brick. Its interior is beautiful,-finished in hardwood and equipped with all modern arrangements for comfort and fine appearance. The Doctor's office is on the Eighth street side of the building. He is a public-spirited man and is anxious to see the town progress,-taking an active interest in all its affairs. He was one of the hardest workers in obtaining the bridge across the Ohio, and he is now a stockholder in the bridge company. In politics, he is an ardent Republican, and has been a member of the school board for seven years. He is borough physician, holds a position on the poor board, and is a member of the staff of the Beaver Valley Hospital. Religiously, he is a Presbyterian and has been an elder ever since he has been in the borough. Fraternally, he belongs to the following orders: Royal Arcanum; Woodmen of the World; Knights of Pythias ; and Rochester Lodge, F. & A. M. His portrait, in connection with this sketch, is shown on a foregoing page.
GEORGE WILSON. Conspicuous among the successful attorneys who devote their whole attention to the active practice of their profession, stands George Wilson, the subject of this brief biography. Mr. Wilson attended the Beaver High School, and after completing its course, he
began the study of law with his father. After diligently pursuing his studies for some time, he was admitted to the bar, March 4, 1889, soon after the death of his father. He began the practice of his chosen profession by entering into partnership with R. S. Holt, under the firm name of Wilson & Holt, of which he is still a partner. Mr. Wilson's undivided attention is given to his chosen profession, and like his father, he has built up a splendid reputation.
Sarah Cummings, an attractive daughter of David and Sarah Cummings, of Freedom, Pa., became the wife of Mr. Wilson. Their home is brightened by the presence of four children namely: Marion, Caroline, Samuel B., and Richard. In his political attachments, Mr. Wilson is a stanch Democrat, and, although he labors zealously for the success of his party, he has never sought office nor cared for political distinction, being very much like his honored father in that respect. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity of Beaver.
Our subject is a direct descendant of Samuel Wilson, who was of Scotch origin, and his wife was a descendant of the early Knickerbockers. Early in the eighteenth century, he married Mary Van Wier, who was born in Holland. This worthy couple owned and occupied a farm along Marsh Creek, near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. There he engaged in tilling the soil, and spent a peaceful and happy domestic life, and there they both died, leaving two sons: Samuel, and Marmaduke, who was the great-grandfather of our subject.
Marmaduke Wilson was born upon his father's homestead, and in 1744 was united in marriage with Susan Beatty. The young folks started out in life at the homestead, caring for the old parents very lovingly until the death of the latter. They then removed to Westmoreland county, Pa., and continued to follow agricultural pursuits for many years. The names of their children were: Patrick ; Samuel; Rachel (McFarlan) ; Jane (Dunlap) ; Susan (Marshall) ; Easter (Rambo) ; Martha (Gibson) ; Sarah (Mitchell) ; and Elizabeth (Byers).
About 1801, Patrick Wilson located in Beaver county, the part now called Lawrence county. There he followed mercantile pursuits, and in 1804 his marriage with Rebecca Morehead, a daughter of William Morehead, occurred. They had the following children: William; Marmaduke; John; Susan (Phillips) ; Nancy (Chriss) ; Sarah (Harper) ; and Samuel.
In 1811, Mr. Wilson purchased a farm near New Castle, where he spent many happy years, and finally died in 1866. This farm is still owned by his descendants. Samuel B. Wilson, father of George, was born February 20, 1824, and from early childhood his aspirations were beyond those of his playmates. He was a faithful student in the district schools, from which he entered Jefferson College at Cannonsburg, Pa., graduating therefrom in June, 1848, with about the highest honors of his class. He enjoyed the distinction of being a noted linguist, and his mastery of the English, Latin, and Greeklanguages was never questioned by either his fellow students, or the professors. Moreover, he not only kept up with his studies when the college course was ended, but greatly increased his knowledge of the ancient classics by daily reading and timely reviews. Soon after leaving college, he was chosen principal of Darlington Academy, a position which he held until the fall of 1849, when he went to Somerset county, and became a law student in the office of the Hon. Jeremiah S. Black, who was then president judge of the Sixteenth Judicial District of Pennsylvania. Mr. Wilson was admitted to the bar, November 12, 1850, and immediately thereafter went to Beaver, where he practiced in the several courts of the county, and in due time acquired a lucrative practice, which occupied his time for more than a quarter of a century. He was engaged in the interests of the most important legal business that has been transacted in Beaver county. His receipts for professional services have perhaps been greater in amount than that of any other resident lawyer who has at any time practiced at the Beaver county bar.
Samuel B. Wilson, although an active politician in the interest of the Democratic party, never sought office. The height of his ambition was to become a thorough scholar, and an honest and successful lawyer; he loved justice, law, and peace. In the practice of his profession, he outlived the ambition of display before courts and juries, he learned to bear criticism without irritation, censure without anger, and calumny without retaliation. He learned how surely all schemes of evil bring disaster to them that support them, and that the granite shaft of a noble reputation can not be destroyed by the poisoned breath of slander.
In 1856, he purchased of Judge Agnew, the Susan Cochran estate, one of Beaver's oldest homes, and a substantial building for its day, located on the north side of the Park, on Turnpike alley. Here Samuel Beatty Wilson had his office and reared his family around the old-time fireplace. This handsome old estate is today owned by the subject of this sketch, as his father left it later in life, and purchased a handsome brick residence on the adjoining lot, which was built by Senator Quay. There Mr. Wilson spent the remainder of his days, passing to the life beyond the grave in January, 1889. His widow is still living, and occupies the same home in which he left her. Mr. Wilson was a member of the Masonic fraternity, and passed all the degrees from the F. & A. M., to the Knights Templar. April 11, 1854, he led to the hymeneal altar, Elizabeth Robinson, a daughter of George Robinson, who was then sheriff of Beaver county. As a scholar, a student, and an assistant, Mrs. Wilson had been of great assistance to her husband, besides being a kind and loving mother, who reared a family, and is loved and esteemed by all. Their children were : Sarah, now deceased; Anna, wife of A. R. Whitehill, a professor of physics in the University of West Virginia; Mary, wife of George Davidson; and George, the subject of this sketch.
George Wilson is held in high repute in his community, and is a man whom all respect and honor. He has a pleasing address and is liberal in his sentiments. His genial disposition and reputation for honesty have made him a favorite not only with his brother practitioners, but among all classes.
SAMUEL HENRY MOULDS, under whose personal supervision and direction as foreman and assistant
manager, the Rochester Tumbler Company has been operated since its organization, is a man who understands the business of manufacturing glass from beginning to end. Since he was ten years old he has been connected with such work, and the high state of efficiency in his office has rendered it possible for the company to lead all others in the world at that particular industry. He is also a stockholder and director of many of the most successful enterprises in the borough,-being a man of great shrewdness and foresight. He was born near Milltown, County Antrim, Ireland, December 9, 1845, and is a son of John and Nancy (Henry) Moulds.
John Moulds, the father of Samuel Henry, was born in County Antrim, Ireland, and after his marriage removed to America with his family,-landing in the city of New York. He located at Steubenville, Ohio, where his wife had a brother and a number of friends, and there became a glass worker, which continued to be his employment until within a short time of his death. He then was engaged in packing, working until the last. He was a man of remarkable dexterity for his age, and shaved himself, as was his custom, up to within three days of his death, which occurred in 1890, at the age of seventy-five years. He married Nancy Henry, whose father was William Henry, and the following offspring resulted : Jane, who married Joseph S. Mellor, employed in the Rochester Tumbler Works, and a stockholder in the company; William, whose biography appears elsewhere in this work; Samuel Henry, the subject of this record ; Annie, the widow of Albert Albin, of Columbus, Ohio; Sarah, the wife of Eli Capers, of Steubenville, Ohio; Robert, who lives at Rochester; John, also a resident of Rochester; and Elizabeth, who makes her home at Steubenville, Ohio.
At the age of ten years, Samuel Henry Moulds entered the glass manufacturing establishment at Steubenville, being employed in the press department until 1868, when he went to Pittsburg and continued in the same line of business until 1872, when he became an organizer, and one of the original stockholders, of the Rochester Tumbler Company. He has also been one of the directors from the first. Owing to his well-known skill and thorough knowledge of every detail of the work, he was chosen as foreman and assistant manager, and has since remained in that position. They manufactured both blown and pressed tumblers, and the demand for their product increased with amazing rapidity, compelling them to increase their facilities and enlarge the business, until now it is the largest of its kind in existence, and the most important industry in the borough of Rochester. They ship to all parts of the globe, sending out from three to ten carloads per day. Their capacity is 150,000 dozen blown tumblers, and 150,000 dozen pressed, per month, twelve hundred skilled workmen being employed the year around. They make their own boxes, barrels and crates for shipping, grind the clay and make pots, and also make their own molds. They have a large water tank containing 3,100 gallons, and have private water works and a private electric light plant. They also have an ice house for drinking purposes. The place is kept in the best of order, and reflects great credit upon the work of the gentlemen in charge. Our subject exacts the best work from each man under him, yet treats him with the greatest consideration and kindness, thereby retaining his good will to the highest extent. Mr. Moulds is a stockholder and director of the Rochester & Monaca Suspension Bridge Company,. of the Rochester Electric Plant, and of the Rochester Daily Star. In 1885, he built a fine residence at No. 103 West Washington street, on the corner of New York street, which was burned down and rebuilt in 1886.
The subject of this writing was united in marriage with Belle Krewson, a daughter of Horace Krewson, and they have two children : Horace Fuller, who is engaged in the insurance business at Rochester; and Agnes K. Mr. Moulds has served as school director and held various other borough offices. His portrait accompanies this sketch, being presented on a foregoing page.
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REV. R. MORRIS SMITH, a gentleman of high educational attainments, is pastor of the Baden Lutheran church, the Rehoboth church, the House of Mercy, and the Trinity church, of Freedom, Pa., and resides in the borough of Baden, where he is held in the highest esteem by his parishioners and fellow citizens. The extensive duties of his charges are very confining, but being a man of unusual energy and ability, and deeply absorbed in the work of Christ, he has performed them faithfully, as the increased membership will indicate.
Mr. Smith was born in Easton, Northampton county, Pa., January 25, 1862, and is descended from a long line of distinguished ancestors. The first of the family of whom there is any record extant is his great-great-grandfather, who was a professor of dogmatic theology at Copenhagen University. His son, the great-grandfather of our subject, was a minister of the Gospel in the Lutheran church, of Denmark and was the first member of the family to come to America, prior to which he was united in marriage with a woman of German birth. He was the first Lutheran minister to preach in the old town of Easton, Pa. His son, P. F. B. Smith, grandfather of the subject of this record, was born seventeen days after the arrival of hisparents in this country; he also studied for the ministry. He preached in Easton until his health failed him, when he resigned. His popularity is shown by the fact that he was immediately elected to the office of register and recorder of the county,-a position he held for a period of nine years,-when he retired and was then elected justice of the peace. Being a very fine penman, he had plenty to do in the way of writing wills and deeds. He and his wife had seventeen children, three of whom are still living.
George Q. F. Smith, the father of the subject hereof, was the oldest son, and was born January 1, 1825, at Easton, Pa., and was intellectually trained in the Easton public schools. He became a merchant tailor and very successfully followed that vocation all of his active life, becoming quite prominent, but is now living a retired life in Stockertown, Pennsylvania. He is a Republican in politics, and, although he has been a hard worker for the party's success, he has never accepted office other than that of school director. Religiously, he is an active member of the Lutheran church, and has held all of the church offices. He is a member of the Masonic order, Knights Templar, and the Jr. O. U. A. M. Mr. Smith was united in marriage with Mary A. Millar, who was born at Mt. Bethel, Northampton county, Pa., and they have five children : Emma C. (Uhler) ; Millard Fillmore; Mary E. (Sandt) ; Amanda A. (Kiefer); and R. Morris, the subject of this biographical record.
R. Morris Smith received his primary education in the public schools of Easton, after which he took a classical course at Trach's Academy and entered Muhlenberg College. He graduated from that institution in 1883, with the degree of A. B., and three years later with the degree of A. M., taking third honors in his class. He then went to Texas, where he was given charge of the Mission Valley Academy, but in 1884 he entered the Lutheran Theological Seminary, from which he was graduated in 1887, being ordained in June of that year. He was then called to Baden to accept his present charges, as successor of the Rev. Dr. Passarant, who, assisted by his son, had been established there for twenty-one years. It is the oldest church in Baden and he is its second pastor. Faithfully and well is he discharging the multifarious duties of these charges, and that his efforts have not been without their reward, we need but mention that the congregation of the Baden church has increased to double its size when he went there. He also erected a handsome new church edifice at Freedom, and is deeply interested in its future. Besides his pastoral duties, Rev. Mr. Smith has completed a post graduate course in the Chicago Theological Seminary, in the study of liturgics. He is at present engaged in literary work, and has several pamphlets on this subject, in the press. He is a member of the college fraternity, Alpha Tau Omega.
On October 13, 1887, Mr. Smith was united in marriage with Minnie Balliet Trumbower, a daughter of Harrison and Josephine (Balliet) Trumbower, who was born in Hokendauqua, Pa., and obtained her education in the public schools of Allentown, graduating from the high school in 1886. Two children were born to bless their home, namely: Phillip M., deceased; and Mary J. Mr. Smith is a Republican in politics, and, although he does not desire office, believing they should be filled by the laity, he consented to accept the place of school director.
GEORGE GOULD, superintendent of the Butts Cannel Coal Company, and a resident of East Palestine, Ohio, was born near Bath, England. He accompanied his parents to this country, when but seven years old. He received his educational training at East Palestine. After leaving school he determined to learn the business of coal operating, and started in at the bottom of the ladder as a digger in the coal fields of Pennsylvania. He gradually worked his way up, and his first appointment to a position of responsibility was as superintendent under Captain Hicks in his mine at Bagdad, Westmoreland county. About fifty men found employment in this mine, and most of the mine's product was sold to the railroads.
After retaining that position for three years, Mr. Gould resigned. In 1888, he bought an interest in the Sterling Mining Co., producers of coal and clay, at Cannelton, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. He was superintendent of the company's mines for five years, having under him one hundred men. Later he sold his interest to Mr. Heilman. Mr. Gould had also been manager for the Butts Cannel Coal Co., but finding the duties of both positions too arduous, he decided to give his entire attention to the Butts Company, and consequently resigned the superintendency of the Sterling Company. He opened and developed the Butts Company's mines. They are producers of very fine cannel coal.
They employ fifty-two men and have a nine-foot vein of cannel coal. This coal is very fine for making gas and is found in few places in this country. Two other places where it is found in paying quantities are at Falling Rock, West Virginia, and Bear Creek, Kentucky. The products of the Butts Co.'s mines are shipped to all parts of the United States and, Canada.
Mr. Gould married Belle Atchison, of East Palestine, Ohio, and resides in a handsome residence a short distance from the mines, to which he drives daily. Mrs. Gould is a native of East Palestine, where she also received her scholastic training. Four children bless the home of Mr. and Mrs. Gould, namely: William, aged eleven; Charles, aged seven; Ellen, three years old; and George, Jr., a baby of eight months.
Mr. Gould is a stockholder of the Elk Run Mining Co., miners of soft coal, and is president of the same. Other members of the company are Messrs. Lanor, Flynn and Bycroft,-the first named being also secretary and treasurer. The offices of the company are at Lisbon, Ohio. The subject of theselines is a Republican. He is a member of the town council, a school director, and is serving on the board of education. He belongs to the M. E. church, of which he is a trustee. He is a member of the Palestine Lodge, F. & A. M., also of the I. O. O. F.
DR. CONSTANTINE T. GALE. The well known physician and surgeon whose name heads this sketch, and
whose portrait we present on the opposite page, has one of the largest practices in Beaver county, and his ability as a physician is undoubtedly of the highest. His patronage
extends over New Brighton, his present home, and through Beaver county, and the
counties adjoining, and he is held in high esteem by all who know him. Dr. Gale is a
son of the late well known physician, Dr. George W. Gale, and was born at Newport,
Washington county, Ohio, January 18, 1850.
The paternal grandfather, George Gale, was born in Ireland and came to America prior
to the year 1800. On the way over, he met on the ship a Miss McKernan, whom he afterward married. They located in Hampshire county, in what is now West Virginia, and followed farming, until they were well along in life, when they sold their property, and went to what is now Pleasant county, West Virginia, and, a few years later, moved to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, where they both died at the advanced age of eighty years.
Their children were, as follows: Thomas; James; McKernan; George; W., M. D.; Robert ; John ; Constantine; William; Bridget ; Catherine; Ellen; Maria; and Theresa; all of whom grew to be men and women, and attained an old age. Three of the oldest sons served in the War of 1812.
George W. Gale, the father of Constantine T., was born in Hampshire county, West Virginia, and was educated in Cumberland, Maryland. He chose medicine as a profession, and was one of the most successful practitioners of the time. He was a self-made man in every respect, and won for himself a name which time cannot efface. He began his professional life in Tyler county, West Virginia, in 1831, and then located at Newport, Washington county, Ohio, and obtained a large practice on both sides of the Ohio River. His career as a physician started in the saddle-bag days, when there were but few roads to reach the pioneers' homes with wagons. Dr. Gale rode many miles on horseback, and in those days a physician had to take grain, provisions, and even timber, for services, as money was very scarce. Good physicians were not to be found within many miles of each other, therefore the Doctor was kept very busy. Being a lover of nature, he purchased a large farm, and spent many happy hours in having it improved, for he was a man of fine tastes and a progressive disposition, and in a short time, he had in his possession a very fine farming property.
He died in September, 1871, aged eighty-one, but although he had given up his long rides several years previous to his death, hewas called on at his home and office, to the very last days of his sickness. His name is known in every house-hold in the vicinity of his former home, and his memory will ever be warmly cherished. He assisted four of his sons to become doctors. Dr. Gale married Catherine Wells, a daughter of Nicholas Wells, of Tyler county, West Va., and she died at the age of seventy. They were both faithful members of the Catholic church. Their children were: John W., M. D.; Mary; Alcinda B.; Rachel; Ellen; Nicholas W., a farmer; Veronica; Constantine T., the subject hereof; George T., M. D.; Samuel Hammett, D. D. S.; Adah L. ; and C. Bernard, M. D.
Dr. Constantine T. Gale, whose name heads this personal biography, attended the public schools of his native town, and also the St. Thomas Seminary, and began reading medicine with his father at the age of twenty. He then entered the Jefferson Medical School at Philadelphia in 1876, and graduated in 1878. He began practice at Parkersburg, West Va., and in 1880 went to New Brighton, where he has since lived. He was an entire stranger there, but it was not long until he had a most promising beginning, and his services were soon sought by many residents of New Brighton. He rapidly rose in the profession, and has proven himself to be a complete master of the science of medicine. His practice is a large and lucrative one, and he is greatly loved by all in the vicinity. The Doctor has a fine home at Eleventh street and Fifth avenue, where is, also, his office. This place was formerly the residence of Dr. Simpson. Dr. Gale was united in wedlock with Lucy L. Stephenson, a daughter of Hon. James Stephen-son, of Parkersburg, West Virginia. He has served several years on the staff of the Beaver County Hospital, is a member of the Beaver County Medical Society, State Medical Association, and American Medical Association. He is a stanch Democrat, but has never sought political distinction. He is also a member of the order of Elks, of Rochester, Pennsylvania.
DR. WILLIAM S. GRIM, a leading practitioner of Beaver Falls, Pa., is a pleasant, companionable gentleman, with a liking for company, and a genial manner that wins him large numbers of
friends. Dr. Grim has been actively engaged in the practice of medicine ever since his graduation from the medical department of the Western University of Pennsylvania, at Pittsburg, in 1888, when he located immediately in Beaver Falls. He makes a specialty of diseases of the nose, throat, ear, and chest. He was first assistant surgeon of the 10th Reg. of
Pennsylvania Militia for a period of six years. He is a member of the Beaver County Medical
Society and also of the Pennsylvania State Medical Society. He acted as delegate from
the latter to the State Medical Society of New Jersey in 1889. He is also a member of the
Pittsburg Obstetrical Society. Politically, the Doctor is an ardent Democrat, but has never
sought nor held office, being too busily occupied with his professional duties.
The subject of this article is a son of Dr. William and Lucinda (Spangler) Grim, and was born August 26, 1864, in Rockville, Dauphin county, Pennsylvania. He received an excellent scholastic training in the common schools of Beaver Falls, which was supplemented by a course at Piersoll's Academy at Bridgewater, and a finishing course at Geneva College in Beaver Falls. He received the degree of B. S. in 1885, and the degree of M. S. in 1889. For his future life work he elected to become a physician, like his honored father. With him, he began the study of medicine in 1885; after studying diligently for some time he attended the Western University of Pennsylvania, at Pittsburg, graduating in 1888, as previously mentioned. His energy, determination, and skill have won for him a high reputation as a physician, and have secured for him an extensive field of practice, besides having fairly given him a place among the leading practitioners of his profession. Dr. Grim is a past master of Beaver Falls Lodge, No. 478, F. & A. M., and is also a member of Harmony Chapter; a member of Valley Echo Lodge, I. O. O. F.; Lone Rock Lodge, K. of P.; and Schuyler Grove, No. 8, United Ancient Order of Druids.
Louis Philip Grim, the great-grandfather of the subject hereof, was a native of Germany, and, on coming to the United States, settled in York county, Pa., at an early date. His son, Michael Grim, was the grandfather of William S. and was born in York county, Pa.,-settling in Beaver county, about the beginning of the present century. He located near Unionville, where he followed agricultural pursuits, and spent the remainder of his life. He rendered valuable services to our country during the War of 1812, being under the command of Captain Henry, in the battle of Lake Erie, under Commodore Perry.
William H. Grim, father of William S., was born in Beaver county, Pa., about 1833. He was a pupil in the common schools, and at Beaver Academy. He then read medicine with Dr. W. W. Simpson, of Rochester, Pa., after which he entered the Cincinnati Medical College, from which he graduated.
After practicing a few years in Lawrence county, and at Rockwell, Dauphin county, he took a special course at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, graduating therefrom in 1869. He then went to Beaver Falls, where he practiced until his death, April 29, 1897. He was a member of the Beaver County Medical Society, and the Pennsylvania State Medical Society. He made a specialty of surgery, and when in active practice, was considered by many to be the leading surgeon in Beaver county. He was a Democrat in his party affiliations, took an active part in politics, and was vice-president of the State Democratic league. He took a deep interest in the educational institutions of his county, and served as a school director for (perhaps) twenty years. He was appointed postmaster under the administration of Benjamin Harrison, and served faithfully in that official capacity. In the Episcopalian church, hewas recognized as one of the prominent members, and had a record for piety of the most earnest character. He was twice married. His first wife was Lucinda Spangler, mother of the subject of this biography. She was a native of Lebanon county, and was a daughter of Levi Spangler. Some time after the death of his first wife, Dr. William H. Grim re-married, his union in this instance being with Amelia Ann Robinson, a daughter of Hon. Archie Robinson, who was state senator of the Beaver-Lawrence district in the early days. Dr. William H. Grim was a very prominent man in the Masonic fraternity. He was past master of the Beaver Valley Lodge, No. 478; a member of Harmony Chapter; Pittsburg Commandery; and of Syria Temple, A. A. O. N.M.S.
Levi Spangler, maternal grandfather of the subject hereof, was an extensive coal operator at Tremont, Pennsylvania. His grandfather settled in Philadelphia in 1737, in what is now known as the First Ward, but later in life went to what is now Myerstown, in Lebanon county. There he built a stone house which was called "Stone Fort." In this the people of that vicinity took refuge at times to protect themselves against the Indians. Levi Spangler and his brother Christian, were engaged many years in coal operating at Tremont, Pennsylvania. Christian Spangler was a prominent man of his day. He was one of the thirteen original directors of the Pennsylvania R. R. Company, and continued to be an officer of that road up to the time of his death, being the last of the thirteen to die.
OLIVER B. ELLIOTT. Among the most important public institutions of Beaver county is the Home for the Poor and Infirm, a fact which is largely due to its successful management by the gentleman named above. It is situated on a tract of one hundred and thirty acres in Moon township, on the banks of the Ohio River, and commands a beautiful view. The place was formerly known as the Stone farm, and a part of the old farm house is now used as the
superintendent's residence. A large brick building was erected for the use of the inmates
which is a model of convenience in its arrangement, being heated and lighted with gas, equipped with numerous fire escapes and extinguishers, and a 25o-barrel tank to insure safety from fire; its sanitary equipments are of the finest. There are thirty-two large, airy sleeping rooms for the accommodation of from eighty to one hundred and ten inmates, and the lower floor is given to separate parlors for the males and females; these are fitted up in comfortable style, and good literature is supplied. The pest house is placed in an isolated position on the farm, but, fortunately, owing to the absolute cleanliness of every portion of the place, this is but little used. The cellars and every out-of-the-way corner are scrupulously clean,-and all of these conditions received due praise from the state superintendent. The building is surrounded by beautiful grounds, and a greater part of the farm is under cultivation, the product being
used upon the table, leaving nothing but flour and meat to be bought for daily use. The
inmates are well cared for and are provided with an abundance of good, wholesome food, and treated on holidays to special dinners. In addition to this, entertainments are frequently given for their benefit, and they are allowed plenty of freedom. The inmates are very useful in the kitchen,, laundry and bakery, and elsewhere; one man is placed in charge of the chicken coops, - 500 fowls being kept. About 1,400 dozen eggs per annum are gathered, of which 1,000 eggs are kept for setting and the remainder are used for home consumption. The young inmates are instructed in useful ways, and are taught to lead a life of independence and self-reliance. As soon as possible they are placed in good homes, and in many instances have become useful and honored citizens. Mr. Elliott is eminently fitted for the position he holds, and it is to be hoped that, for the advantage of the inmates and the benefit of the county, he will be retained for many years to come. He has made a study of human nature, and seems to comprehend every desire and want of his charges; these he endeavors to satisfy, if reasonable, and within his power. Kind and considerate, he has their respect, without exception.
Oliver B. Elliott was born in Moon township, Beaver county, June 20, 1857, and attended the district schools until he reached the age of sixteen years, after which he assisted his father on the farm until he was married. He later purchased a portion of his grandfather's old estate,-in all eighty-four acres. It was partially improved land, but Mr. Elliott improved both land and buildings still further,-setting out excellent orchards and vineyards. He raised six tons of grapes annually, besides large quantities of berries, cherries, apples, plums, etc. He also engaged in general farming. His place was well stocked with good horses, registered Jerseys and Holsteins, and sheep. He continued at this until he was appointed superintendent of the County Home, in 1897, since which time the place has been rented.
Mr. Elliott was united in marriage with Ellen Dunn, a daughter of Walter and Ellen Dunn, of Scotch birth, and they have three children: Bertha A., born in January, 1883, a student of Beaver High School of the graduating class of 1901 ; Frank W., born in August, 1885 ; and one who died in infancy. Politically, Mr. Elliott is a Republican, and served as assessor and collector for a long time. He was also constable until 1897, and has filled all the township offices except that of justice of the peace. Religiously, he is a member and elder of the Presbyterian church. Socially, he is a member of the K. of P.; Jr. O. U. A. M.; Woodmen of the World ; and Rochester Lodge, B. P. O. E. Mr. Elliott's portrait accompanies this sketch.
WILLIAM DELOSS HAMILTON, county, Pa., is one of that town's postmaster of Freedom, Beaver most active and popular business men, was born in Freedom, March 24, 1863, and is a son of Oliver James Hamilton. His great-grandfather, James Hamilton, was born in Ireland, and on coming to America, settled among the early pioneers of the western townships of Beaver county. While assisting the sheriff to make an arrest, he was shot by some one who supposed him to be the sheriff. He was the first white man shot in Beaver county. His children were: James; Oliver; and Martha.
James Hamilton, the grandfather of the subject of this record, went to Beaver, where he learned the trade of a tailor, and afterward settled in Moon township, where he followed farming the rest of his life. He was born March 22, 1789, and died October 12, 1870. He married Elizabeth Weigle, a daughter of John Weigle. She was born December 6, 1799, and died May 7, 1866, at the age of sixty-six. Their children were, as follows: John, born January 16, 1824; Oliver James, born April 4, 1825 ; Caroline J., born August 3, 1826, and married to Daniel Irwin ; Oscar, born April 20, 1828; Eleanor, born June 28, 1830, and married to Milo Jones; Susannah, born June 24, 1832; Sibeam, born November 1, 1834; Juliana, born October 14, 1837, and married to Milfred Webb; Samuel, born November 3, 1839; and Martha, born October 16, 1843. Oliver James Hamilton, the father of William Deloss Hamilton, followed farming early in life, and then learned ship carpentering, and became one of the members of the Freedom Barge Building Co., which built boats for many years. Then Mr. Hamilton followed house carpentering, and built himself a home on Fourth street, which he sold later. At present, he is retired from active life. He married Lovina Minor, a daughter of James Minor, of Hookstown, Beaver county. Mrs. Hamilton died August 15, 1853, at the age of thirty-four years, and eleven months. Their children were as follows: B. Deloss, deceased; James Oscar, born August 31, 1851, married to Cynthia Davis, and having six children, as follows: Elmer; Fay; Eva; James; and Adam and Nancy J., both deceased. Mr. Hamilton was married again, this time to Mary Jane Calvert, a daughter of James Calvert, of Allegheny, who was born in County Down, Ireland. Miss was born in County Down, Ireland. Miss Calvert was born July 13, 1827. The second union resulted in seven children, as follows: Lizzie L., born March 14, 1859, now deceased; John C., born October 19, 1860, and married to Lydia Cuppo, whose children were,-Lizzie, Rubie, John O., and Gertrude ; William Deloss, the subject of this biography; Milo J., born November 25, 1864, and married to Joanna Lopp; Frank S., born April 8, 1867, and married to Clara Harshman ; Alexander O., born May 19, 1869, married to M. Cronk, and having one child,-J. Earl; and Thomas, born April 23, 1871. Mr. Hamilton is a Republican in politics, and a member of the M. E. church.
William Deloss Hamilton, whose name heads this sketch, was educated in the schools of Freedom, and as early as twelve years of age, began work in the Rochester Tumbler Works,-spending several years also as a glass blower, in Pittsburg. When the Keystone Tumbler Works were established in Rochester, he was one of the organizers and stockholders, and is at present a stockholder. He worked there until January, 1898, when he was appointed postmaster of Freedom. The postoffice of Freedom was established about May 28, 1832, with Stephen Phillips as postmaster. The officials who preceded him in that capacity were as follows: William Smith, May 9, 1836; T. F. Robinson, March 6, 184o; Henry Bryan, April 30, 1844; Frederick Schumacker, September 25, 1845; William P. Phillips, February 18, 185o; John Graham, June 16, 1853 ; William Kerr, March 13, 1861; William D. Fisher, May 26, 1871 ; T. C. Kerr, September 6, 188o; Francis M. Grim, February 15, 1886; J. L. Conner; and G. W. Jack. The assistant is Miss Annie C. Lewis. Miss Elizabeth Wright served as assistant from 1880 until 1898.
Mr. Hamilton built, on Fourth avenue, a beautiful residence, which he occupies. He was united in marriage with Margaret Fehr, a daughter of Conrad and Mary Fehr. She was born in Pittsburg, but was reared in Freedom. The children which have blessed this union are: Clyde D.; Milo S.; Mary G. ; Harry C., and an infant son, unnamed. Mr. Hamilton is a member of the I. O. O. F., of the Woodmen of the World and is a member, and ex-steward, of the Methodist Episcopal church. His present position he has filled to the entire satisfaction of all the citizens, and he has fully demonstrated that he is worthy of all the trust and confidence reposed in him.
FREDERICK DAVIDSON, vice-president of the Union Drawn Steel Co., of Beaver Falls, Pa., is among the most prominent citizens of his town. His career gives evidence of careful training in early youth. When young, he moved to Beaver, where he received his primary education, and later took an academic course at Chester Military School. His business tact and abilities attracted the attention of an official of the National Bank of New Brighton, and he obtained a situation as clerk in the bank, which he held for three years. He then accepted the responsible position of cashier of the Beaver National Bank. At the death of his brother, James J., he became president of the Union Drawn Steel Co., of Beaver Falls. His life has been a steady, onward and upward advance in every field of usefulness to which he has been called, in which respect his career is suggestively similar to that of his father. Socially, Frederick Davidson is affiliated with St. James Lodge, No. 457, F. & A. M., of the borough of Beaver, where he now lives. His political preference is with the Republican party. The subject of this writing is the youngest son of Daniel R. and Margaret C. (Johnston) Davidson, and a grandson of William and Sarah (Rogers) Davidson.
Hon. William Davidson was of Scotch-Irish origin, and was born in Carlisle, Cumberland county, Pa., February 14, 1783. He was a very prominent man of his day, both in religious and political circles. He was a clergyman of the Christian church and a very active worker in that denomination; he wasequally influential in the political arena, having served as a member of the State Legislature, as state senator, and as speaker of the House. He died at the age of eighty-five years.
Daniel R. Davidson, father of Frederick, was an active business man of Beaver, Pa., and was born in Fayette county, Pa., January 12, 182o, where he was a pupil in the select schools. He was a man of notable commercial tact and ability; his business relations were varied and extensive. He dealt largely in coke and coal, and owned valuable mines. For many years, he was a successful and influential railroad official, having built the B. & O. R. R. from Pittsburg to Connellsville, Pa., in connection with which he held various offices, and for a time was president of that branch. After severing his connection with that road, he was the main promoter of the Fayette county branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad. At the time of his death, he was president of the Commercial National Bank, of Pittsburg, having been one of the organizers of that institution. He was also one of the board of directors of the National Bank of Commerce, of Pittsburg, from the time of its organization. He was the owner of two plants in the coke regions, and was president of the Love Manufacturing Co., of Rochester, Pa., during its existence. In politics, he was a Republican, and gave the weight of his influence to the advancement of the principles of that party, believing his own, as well as the public interests, were best advanced by Republican policies.
Daniel R. Davidson was married in Fayette county, Pa., in 1846, to Margaret C. Johnston, (laughter of Alexander Johnston, who was of Scotch-Irish descent. Seven children blessed this union, and were named as follows: Charles, who lives in Connellsville, Pa.; Sarah, William J., and Elizabeth, deceased; George, who is cashier of the National Bank of New Brighton; James J., deceased; Louis R.; and Frederick, the subject of this sketch. Daniel R. Davidson died March 18, 1884, and with his death ended a very useful and exemplary life.
WILLIAM HENRY WAGONER, a noted machinist, whose portrait is presented on the opposite page, has been a resident of Beaver Falls since 1883, when he accepted a position with the Hart-man Steel Company, but subsequently en-gaged with the American Steel & Wire Company. He learned the trade of a rod roller, -becoming quite an expert at that business. On December 22, 1892, he was promoted to the position of a boss roller of that mill. The plant is an important one, and, when running full time, night and day, furnishes employment to 151 men, many of whom are under the direct supervision of Mr. Wagoner. August 24, 1899, Mr. Wagoner accepted a more responsible position with the same company, at Rankin, Pa., and has charge of the company's works there, as boss roller.
Besides the important position he occupieswith the above-mentioned firm, Mr. Wagoner is also interested in various other enterprises of minor note. In the many years he has exercised his right of suffrage, Mr. Wagoner has always voted with the Republican party, and takes an unusually active part in politics. He is a thorough advocate of good systems of public instruction and was elected to the offIce of school director from the sixth ward ; he has taken a deep interest in affairs under consideration by the directors, and has served on some of the most important committees. Our subject is a member of the Masonic fraternity, in good standing,-being a past master of that order. He is also a member of Lodge No. 225, Knights of Pythias; of Lodge No. 311, Royal Arcanum, and is a member of Sr. O. U. A. M., Council No. 385.
William Henry Wagoner was born January 7, 1867, in Sewickley, Allegheny county, Pa., and is a son of Andrew and Sarah Jane (Marlatt) Wagoner, and grandson of Joseph Wagoner. Joseph Wagoner was a Pennsylvanian by birth, and was one of the pioneer settlers of Sewickley, Allegheny county, Pa., where he lived many years, and finally died. He was a carpenter by trade, and a steamboat builder. He assisted in building many boats on the Ohio River, and was an excellent workman. Andrew Wagoner, father of William Henry, was born in Sewickley township, December 16, 1832. He was reared in the same locality, and attended the district schools, remaining there even after attaining his majority. Like his father, he also engaged in carpenter work
and steamboat building, and is now located in Van Wert, Ohio.
He was joined in matrimony with Sarah Jane Marlatt, a daughter of Joseph Marlatt. She was also a native of Allegheny county, and bore her husband eight children, four of whom are now deceased. The names of the children are : Elias, who resides in Little Chippewa township, where he follows the occupation of a farmer; Cecelia, deceased; William Henry, the subject of this sketch ; Frank L., who died at the age of twenty-two years; James and Joseph, twins, who died young; Mary Luella, wife of W. J. Harris, of Beaver Falls; and Alfred. William Henry Wagoner was the recipient of a practical education acquired in the public schools of Sewickley., After leaving school his first position was with the Bentley & Goehring Works, of New Brighton, where he remained until 1883, when he went to Beaver Falls, as before mentioned.
The subject of this record was joined in marriage with Elizabeth A. Tucker, an attractive young lady. Their home was brightened by the presence of four children, one of whom is now deceased. Their names are: Winifred M.; Samuel Anderson ; Warren Henry, deceased; and Merle Edwin. Besides his cares and duties, Mr. Wagoner has time to devote to other affairs, and takes much interest in the progress and welfare of his community. He is abundantly qualified to fill his present, or any similar, position, for his life has been spent in factories and in following mechanical arts. He is found ready and willing to, undertake new projects, but is still conservative enough to withhold his support from visionary and wild cat schemes. He is broad and liberal in his ideas, and is esteemed and respected by his many acquaintances; he performs the varied duties which fall to his lot with a ready tact and ease that come only from thorough experience.
HENRY SECHRIST, a progressive dairyman, and stock and feed farmer, of Big Beaver township, ranks among the most up-to-date agriculturists of Beaver county, Pa. Mr. Sechrist commenced
the dairy business about 1872, when he purchased the homestead farm from his father.
Previous to that, he had followed farming ever since leaving school, and the complete
management of the farm had been left to him for several years. He removed to Beaver
county, when nineteen years of age. Having good business ability he was quick to realize
that money was to be made in the dairy trade. He started with only twelve cows, but has
since had as many as thirty-five. At first, he kept only the short-horn variety, but later
changed to the Holstein breed, and now keeps only Jerseys. The dairy products of his farm
were formerly shipped to Allegheny and Pittsburg. Later, he purchased a retail route in
Beaver Falls. Disposing of that, Mr. Sechrist now ships to Beaver Falls. He also raises
hogs and horses, and large quantities of grain and hay. Most of the latter is, however, feed
for his stock. Soon after purchasing it, our subject built a new house on his farm; this house was destroyed by fire in 1894. In March, of the same year, was begun the erection of his present handsome residence, which was constructed from plans drawn by himself. He also built fine, large barns, equipped with all modern conveniences. Only the latest and most improved farming implements are to be found on his farm, and when not in use, these are carefully sheltered under neat sheds prepared for the purpose. Everything about his place goes to show the superior ability and management of its owner, the entire premises being a model of neatness and convenience. Besides keeping up the old orchards on the farm, Mr. Sechrist has recently planted a fine, large peach orchard containing the choicest varieties to be found.
Henry Sechrist was born in Johnstown, Pa., July 18, 1840. He is a son of Henry, Sr., and Nancy (Flinchbaugh) Sechrist, and comes of good German stock. Henry Sechrist, Sr., was born in York county, Pa., in 1806. He was instructed in the public schools, and afterward learned milling. He subsequently built a mill, which he conducted himself, carrying on a successful business for twenty years. He then moved to Cambria county, Pa., and rented a farm for a brief period. Removing to Indiana county, he rented another farm, but did not like the country, and moved again. This time he located in Allegheny county, where he followed agricultural pursuits for eleven years.
In 186o, he purchased a farm in Beaver county, and immediately occupied it. Thisis the identical farm now occupied by the subject of our sketch. It was then an improved farm of 140 acres, with a frame house and barns. It was much deteriorated, however, -with buildings out of repair. Henry Sechrist's father rebuilt the house and barns and set about enriching the land. He set out fine fruit orchards and put many modern improvements on the place. His marriage was celebrated in New York City, where he espoused Nancy Flinchbaugh. Mrs. Sechrist was a native of York county, Pa., where she received a good scholastic training. She proved a worthy helpmeet to her husband in every way. Eight children were born to them, namely: Sarah (Scott) ; William ; Jacob ; Henry, the subject of this sketch; Susan (Miller); Annie, who died in infancy; Mary, who never married; and Sylvester, who also died young. Henry Sechrist, Sr., was a prominent Democrat. He served as supervisor and as school director. Early in life he embraced the faith of the Methodists, but subsequently became a member of the United Presbyterian church, of which he served many years as trustee and steward.
The subject of this record was the recipient of a practical education while yet in Allegheny county. In 1887, he wedded Lizzie M. Dillon, a charming daughter of James and Barbara Dillon. Mrs. Sechrist was born, reared; and educated in Beaver county. One son, William L., born July 11, 1895, blesses their home and renders life more happy. In politics, Mr. Sechrist is an ardent Democrat. He has served as school director and supervisor,
250 BOOK OF BlOGRAPHlES
has held many of the township offices,-among them, that of treasurer. He favors the Methodist religion, and is trustee and steward of the church of that denomination. In fraternal associations, he is an active member of Meridian Lodge, No. 411, F. & A. M., and of Harmony Chapter, of Beaver Falls. Such men as Mr. Sechrist are valuable acquisitions to any community.
CAPT. FRANK MARATTA is one of the oldest and most respected men in Beaver county, and makes his home at Rochester. He has owned many steamers during his life time, and has undoubtedly served as captain on more boats on the Ohio River than any other man in that section of Pennsylvania. He is a son of James and Elizabeth (Walker) Maratta, and was born in Beaver county, October 25, 1819. His lather was also born in that county, but his grandparents were natives of France.
James Maratta, the father of Frank, took up the trade of a carpenter and later became a contractor, settling at Bridgewater, where his father before him had lived. He lived there the remainder of his life and died at the age of sixty-two years. His union with Elizabeth Walker resulted in the birth of the following children: Caleb; Margaret; Mahala; Peter; Frank, the gentleman whose name appears at the head of this sketch; Cynthia; James; Ann; Mary; Hines; Daniel ; and three others who died in infancy. Those who grew to maturity are all respected citizens of the various communities in which they reside.
Capt. Frank Maratta started life as a pilot on the river, and became very skillful in that capacity on keel boats. He subsequently engaged as cook on a steam packet, run between Pittsburg and New Castle, Pa., but a man of his ability and ambitious nature does not remain down long. He bettered his position as the opportunity presented itself, and became a captain of steamboats. He became owner of many boats and was interested in others. He built the Forest Rose at California, Pa., and the Paris and Princess at Freedom, all of which he ran a few years, and then disposed of to the government. He built the Champion, at Freedom, the Sunny Side, at Brownville, and the Mansfield. His next two boats, the Henry A. Jones and the Belle of Texas, after crossing the Gulf of Mexico, he sold at Galveston, Texas. He then built the Forest Rose No. 2, and the Leonidas, which he ran before selling them. He was also part owner and captain of Scotia Packet; Ironsides; and was captain of the Alaska; Golden Eagle ; Robert Burns; Bostonian No. 1; Bostonian No. 2; and the Alice Dean. After many years of the greatest activity, in 1890, he retired from the river, but is still financially interested in a number of enterprises. He was an organizer and a stockholder of the Conway Bank, and is president of the Big Beaver River Bridge Company, and a director of the Brighton Bridge Company. He also served as councilman of the borough.
Captain Maratta was united in marriage with Lydia Ransom, who was born in Jeffersonville, Ind., and was a daughter of James Ransom. She died in 1893, at the age of seventy-three years. The subject of our sketch formed a second marital union with Millie P. Seidell, a daughter of J. G. Seidell, of Scioto county, Ohio. In 1890, he built his present handsome residence in Rochester, having previously built what is known as the Dr. A. L. Shallenberger residence. He then erected another residence which he sold to William Moulds. At the advanced age of eighty years, Captain Maratta is enjoying excellent health, having never been sick in his life until the spring of 1899, when he suffered from an attack of "la grippe." He is a man of good habits, never using tobacco or liquor in any form, and to this may be attributed more than anything else his wonderfully strong constitution. He is a man of pleasing personality, a clever conversationalist, and stands high in the estimation of his fellow men.
WILLIAM MOULDS, who has attained prominence throughout Western Pennsylvania as the general
manager of the Rochester Tumbler Company, a firm employing the largest number of hands
in the service of any concern in the borough, has been engaged in the manufacture of glass
in various departments of the work for almost a half century. He is a man of tried business ability, which, coupled with his years of -experience, has been an important factor in the thriving condition of the establishment with which he has been connected since its inception. It is, unquestionably, the largest enterprise of its kind in the world. Mr. Moulds is also president of the Olive Stove Works of Rochester, which occupies an important place among the manufacturing industries of that community. He was born near Milltown, County Antrim, Ireland, December 9, 1842, and is a son of John and Nancy (Henry) Moulds.
John Moulds was also born in County Antrim, Ireland; upon coming to the United States he landed in New York City, but subsequently located at Steubenville,, Ohio, where his wife had a brother and friends. On arriving here he was without a trade, but soon learned the art of glass blowing, which he followed nearly all of his life. During his last days he was engaged in packing, and was a man of remarkable activity up to the end,-dying in 1890, at the age of seventy-five years. He was a man of sturdy constitution and enjoyed fine health, having shaved himself just three days prior to his demise. He married Nancy Henry, a daughter of William Henry, and their children were as follows: William, the subject of this personal history; Samuel H., a record of whose life also appears in this work; Annie, the relict of Albert Albin, of Columbus, Ohio; Sarah, the wife of Eli Capers, of Steubenville, Ohio; Robert, who lives at Rochester; John, also a resident of Rochester; and -Elizabeth, who makes her home at Steubenville, Ohio.
William Moulds left school at an early age, being eight years old when he was instructed in the art of mold-making for the use of blowing glass. He became, a very skilled mechanic, and followed that line of work at his Ohio home until 1866, when he removed to Pittsburg and there engaged at his trade. In 1872, he assisted in organizing the Rochester Tumbler Company, which comprised the following prominent business men: H. C. Fry; G. W. Fry; S. M. Kane; William Moulds; S. H. Moulds; Thomas Carr; William Carr; Thomas Matthews; John Hayes; J. H. Lippencott; and Richard Welsh. Mr. Moulds and H. C. Fry went to Rochester and there purchased the ten-acre estate of A. Lacock, which was at one time a fine maple grove, and, later, partly used as a brick yard. They immediately broke ground and soon a factory was built and in full operation, their success being manifest from the start. Misfortune (through fire) overtook them when they had been running for two years, but they rebuilt without delay and made many valuable improvements which greatly facilitated manufacture, and greatly increased the output. At that time three new members were added to the firm, namely: George Searles, and Robert and John Carr. The plant has grown to be the largest enterprise of its kind in the world, their shipments being directed to all parts of the United States, Canada, England (and other parts of Europe), South America, Africa, Australia, Mexico, China and Japan.
They ship from three to ten carloads per day, and have a monthly output of 150,000 dozen of blown goods and 150,000 dozen of pressed, giving employment to twelve hundred persons. They have their own dynamos, and the factory is equipped with 1,000 incandescent lights. They also have their own ice house and water works, containing a tank with a capacity of 3,100 gallons. The firm at the present time is organized as follows: H. C. Fry, president; William Moulds, general manager; S. H. Moulds, assistant manager; J. H. Fry, secretary; and Clayton Vance, treasurer. Mr. Moulds has also been closely identified with other business interests about Rochester,-prominent among them being the Olive Stove Works, of which he is president. He has taken an active interest in the progress of the borough, and has made many friends throughout this section by the honorable manner in which he conducts his affairs.
He was united in matrimony with May Jane, a daughter of Captain John Wallace, of Steubenville, Ohio, and they have three children : Mary W., widow of H. B. Shallenberger, of Rochester; John W., deceased; and Jessie Agnes. Mr. Moulds resides in a fine home on West Adams street, and has served in the council for two years. Fraternally, he is a member of the Odd Fellows and Masonic orders. He served in the Civil War, enlisting in 1864, as a corporal in Company C, 157th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf. Religiously, he is a member of the Baptist church. We present a portrait of Mr. Moulds on another page, in proximity to this.
CHARLES M. HUGHES is the present popular and efficient cashier of the
Beaver National Bank ; he has had a broad and useful experience in this line of business, as he has been connected with various banking institutions almost continuously since his early manhood. Our subject is a man of fine business ability, is a favorite in both business and social circles, and he always lends his influence in favor of such enterIrises and measures as he deems best for the advancement and prosperity of the borough, county, state and country at large. He was born in Lina, Ohio, May 24, 1856, and is a son of Richard T. Hughes. Richard T. Hughes was a farmer in early life, but later conducted a mercantile store at Lima. He was county treasurer of 'Alien county, Ohio, for a period of four years. He died March 7, 1879, at the age of fifty-one years.
Charles M. Hughes was intellectually trained in the public and high schools of Lima; at the age of eighteen years, he accepted his first bank position, that of clerk in the First National Bank, of Lima, Ohio; two years later he became assistant cashier of the Allen County Bank, of Lima,-remaining in that capacity until 1881. In that year he returned to the First National Bank, of Lima, and became cashier of that institution. Having spent a life of indoor occupation up to this time, Mr. Hughes decided to seek some open air exercise, and accordingly, in 1894, he resigned his position in the bank and entered the employ of the Mutual Life Insurance Company as traveling agent out of Cleveland, Ohio. In 1896, Mr. Hughes returned to his former occupation,-accepting a position as cashier of the Beaver National Bank, succeeding cashier Fred Davidson. This bank is practically a new institution, having thrown open its doors to the public July 1, 1896; it has a capital stock of $100,000.00 and is one of the most solid banks in the county. The officers of the Beaver National Bank are J. R. Leonard, president; E. K. Hum, president; C. M. Hughes, cashier; and William P. Judd, assistant cashier. In 1895, a handsome brick and stone building was erected for the bank; in the center of the building is the large safe and vault, and also the deposit drawers; in the rear is the directors' room, while in the front is a private office; the interior is finished with quartered oak, presenting a very neat appearance, and the building throughout is heated with hot water and lighted by both electric lights and gas.
Mr. Hughes was married June 18, 1878, to Miss Katherine M. Colbath, a daughter of J. A. Colbath, of Lima, Ohio, and they are the proud parents of three children, namely: Clarence L., corresponding clerk in the Columbia National Bank, of Pittsburg, Pa.; Margaret, who is a student at Beaver College; and Dorothy. Fraternally, our subject is a member of the F. & A. M., of Lima, Ohio, No. 205; Chapter No. 49; Shawnee Commandery, No. 14, and is past commander of the same; he is also a member of the K. of P. lodge, of Lima, Ohio. Religiously, he and his family are Presbyterians. During the short period Mr. Hughes has been a member of the community, he has, by his courteous manners and superior business ability, won hosts of friends, who greatly esteem and respect him for his sterling worth; he is well read and intelligent, and fulfills all the obligations of a dutiful citizen.
Although his educational advantages were limited, he made the best of his opportunities, and has acquired a good degree of practical knowledge by close observation and reading. He was taken from school at an early age to learn a trade, but continued to learn what he could in private. There were six children in the family, and they all studied out of the same old arithmetic. He adopted farming and followed that line of work until he reached his twentieth year, when he learned the trade of a carpenter, which he followed until 1852. He then removed to Beaver county, and subsequently to Wheeling, West Virginia, where he worked in a sash and door factory until 1861. Owing to the central situation of Wheeling, there was a division of sentiment on the war question,which resulted in a depressing effect on all kinds of business. He then began contracting for himself at Baden, Beaver county, Pa., and has since been one of the most prominent men of that place. His first contract was to build the Lutheran church, in which he has always been a most earnest worker, and he has since had the contracting of all the principal buildings in that locality. He recently completed a church in Braddock, Pa., and now has a school building in course of construction at Remington, Pa. He is also agent for Dr. Daly, of Pittsburg, and has the management of his real estate interests in this district. He has always been a popular citizen of the borough, and served in the first council after its incorporation. He has since served as school director and councilman, and was burgess for four years. He was then elected justice of the peace, an office he is now filling for his third term. He has always given good satisfaction in this capacity, his aim being rather to keep people from litigation than to increase his own revenues by promoting it. That his policy is appreciated was forcibly demonstrated at the last election. He ran on the Democratic ticket, and out of a voting list of l00, he only received an opposing vote of seven. This is all the more remarkable when the fact is taken into consideration that the county is strongly Republican.
Mr. Forsyth was united in marriage with Sarah J. Romigh, and they became the parents of three children, namely: James F., a foreman in the tin-plate mill; William Taylor, now working in the oil fields; and Walter A., who is with Jones & Company, of Pittsburg. Mrs. Forsyth died on her
thirty-eighth birthday, and the subject of our sketch subsequently formed a second union, with Mary J. Sickles, to whom have been born three children: George, weigh master in the tin-plate mills; Alma; and Margaret. Mr. Forsyth is a very active member of the Lutheran church and for thirty-seven years was superintendent of the Sunday School. He is also a deacon of the church.
The father of the subject hereof was one of the Irish patriots who settled in Pittsburg, in 1798. He was a druggist, and was most anxious to have William G. succeed him in that business, and began training his son while yet in childhood for that purpose. James Taylor was ambitious, however, beyond his strength; and his career was cut short by death in August, 1827. Thus the education and training of William G. was left entirely to his mother.
Mrs. Taylor, although a woman who possessed only the common education of those days, had a vigorous and poetical mind, plenty of good common sense, devout piety, and implicit trust in God. She was a strict disciplenarian, and rigidly enforced the rules of obedience, industry and study. She believed that the youth should have plenty of work, study, and play,-leaving no time for idleness, and bad habits. These inculcations developed, in time, into the fixed habits, the untiring industry and studiousness and the unconquerable energy, which characterized Dr. Taylor in his manhood. During the intervals between school-terms he was kept at work in some business house from the time he was nine years old, and at a later period in life he always found employment readily in such concerns, during his college and seminary vacations. He loved to teach and excelled in discipline; his versatility of talent, education, and training, fitted him for the ministry, the educator's task, and for the arena of business.
Dr. Taylor left the manufacturing and mercantile life in Pittsburg, in which he was en-gaged as a partner and business manager, to finish his education, and to prepare himself for the ministry, with the view of laboring among the churches which were unable to pay a full salary or were broken down, or involved in some kind of difficulty. For this unusual department of church work he felt that he had an especial adaptation, and his invariable success proved that he was not mistaken in his calling.
The subject of this biography graduated at Jefferson College (now Washington and Jefferson) in 1847, and took a full course in the Western Theological Seminary, from which he graduated in 1849. He was licensed to preach the Gospel by the Presbytery of Pittsburg, in April, 1848, and was ordained by the same presbytery as an evangelist in April, 1849, with a view of laboring among the broken down, feeble churches, or those unable to support a pastor, or working in new fields.
He was invited to become assistant-editor of the Prairie Herald Publishing Company, of Chicago, Illinois. This company published two religious weeklies, and worked off on their small power press two dailies, and one monthly, and two quarterly, journals. In connection with the company was a bookstore, in which Dr. Taylor found additional employment; he also assisted the pastor of the Third Presbyterian church in his pastoral duties as the latter was in feeble health. The intense labor occasioned by his various duties, together with an attack of chills and fever, finally broke down his health and he sought rest in assuming charge of a small New England congregation; but the chills and fever continued and at last compelled him to go back to Pittsburg, his native city.
On his return, he commenced his work on unbroken ground, at Mt. Washington, on the hill above South Pittsburg, assuming charge of that field, in April, 1851. There a good Sabbath school was organized, and the foundation laid for a flourishing church. About that time, the Presbyterian church of Beaver, having declined from one hundred and ninety-six members to forty-two, gave Dr. Taylor a call, for half time. He accepted the charge, devoting his full time, however, as that was necessary. in order to insure success. A neighboring church of three hundred members, all active, zealous workers, was gathering into its folds, as many as possible who formerly belonged to the Presbyterian church. But under the labors of Dr. Taylor and his faithful few, a reaction took place in favor of the old church, its edifice was handsomely repaired, and in the course of four years its congregation and membership were increased one-half, and a good Sabbath school was organized. The church of Tarentum had been in trouble for several years, and needed special labor; there was some discord, and difficulty in raising the salary, although for only half time, as the Bull Creek church raised the other half,-the same minister serving both flocks. The calls for Dr. Taylor to assume these charges being unanimous, were accepted by him,, and he entered upon his work. Soon harmony was restored and a missionary point at Natrona was added to this field. In four and a half years, each of these churches was enabled to command the full services of a pastor, and one of them was able to build a parsonage. This ended the necessity for Dr. Taylor's labors in that sphere.
His next field was at Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania. This church had been without a pastor for twenty years, and lacked unity, and ability to support a pastor half of the time. Commencing in May, 1861, Dr. Taylor gave his full attention to this charge, restoring harmony, and very soon bringing the church into better condition; he remained there for four years. In 1865, the pastor of North Branch church left, and Dr. Taylor took thatplace for his extra service, in order to unite the two churches in one pastoral charge to support a pastor. Soon these churches were prepared to make a call for full time, and, his work in them being done, were placed in the hands of Rev. R. J. Cummings, D. D., with a salary of $1,000. Soon the church was able to build a fine new church edifice at New Sheffield, near the old church.
His next field of labor was the old disbanded church of Concord, on Southern avenue, now Pittsburg, Pa. With eleven Christian workers and no Sabbath school, he commenced work and succeeded in building and paying for a new church and Sabbath school rooms, and establishing a Sabbath school which enrolled two hundred and fifty pupils in four years, with a good library.
For ten and one-half years, Dr. Taylor was principal and chaplain to the Soldiers' Orphan School, and preached twice every Sunday. This was the great work which has made him famous as an organizer, educator and character builder, and was done in connection with the Phillipsburg Soldiers' Orphan School, an institution practically established by his efforts. The labors performed by him in connection with this school will be briefly described at the close of this sketch.
On April 15, 1849, Dr. Taylor was united in marriage with Charlotte Thompson, a daughter of John and Mary Thompson, of Allegheny, Pennsylvania. This estimable and thoroughly educated lady and devoted wife, has been a valuable companion and assistant to him in filling his various charges. Their home was rendered doubly attractive and happy by the addition of the following children: Mary M. ; Charlotte E. ; James W. ; Ellen S.; John T., and Harvey J. Mary M. is the widow of C. Martin, a lawyer. They had three children, namely: William T., Erwin S., and Charlotte E. Charlotte E., the second daughter, now deceased, was the wife of T. L. Kerr. James W. is a machinist, of Beaver, Pa. Ellen S. is the wife of William J. Stewart. They have three children: William J., Herbert T., and Ethel T. Mr. Stewart is a stockholder and superintendent of the Fallston Fire Clay Company. John T. is a capitalist and real estate dealer, of Monaca. He married Ida M. McDonald and has four children: Jean K., Vera, William G., Jr., and Ida M. Harvey J. married Hester L. Potter, and has two children : James S., and Harold A. Dr. Taylor owns, perhaps, the finest modern house in Beaver. It was built in 1897 and 1898, and is situated on East Third street. His former home was built in 1854, and is near his present residence. He also owns several other houses in Beaver. He values money for its use only; he is regarded as a man of great wealth, all of which has been made in a legitimate business way, and not by speculation, or the neglect of his professional calling. As early as 1847, he commenced making investments in real estate, and his close economy gave him means for any good investment which his keen foresight pronounced good. He has always been a liberal giver, is public-spirited, and has assisted others to prosperity. It was principally in this way that
his handsome competency was secured. His observation and experience are to the effect that moral character, integrity, temperance, courtesy, industry, economy, value of time, and public spirit are the highest way to success in life.
From boyhood, Dr. Taylor took strong grounds on the temperance, the Sabbath, and anti-slavery, as well as religious, questions. He felt from his anti-slavery views, as well as for the unity of the government, a deep interest in the Civil War, and immediately after the firing upon Fort Sumter (in fact, the same evening), he commenced recruiting for the conflict. He was deeply interested in the great work of the Christian commissions at home and in the field. The Beaver county commission, of which ex-Chief-Justice Agnew was chairman, placed Dr. Taylor in charge of the work in Beaver county. Dr. Boardman, the United States secretary of the commission, made the statement that Beaver county was the banner county of the Union in the ratio of its population to the amount raised. Dr. Taylor's labor in this capacity was entirely gratuitous. His enterprising spirit, courage and foresight prepared him to take the risk of progress and improvement.
The subject of this biography was one of the seven who met at the call of Mr. Nelson to organize the Beaver County Agricultural Society. He was also one of the principal organizers of the Beaver Female College and Musical Institute. With Prof. Blees, he was the first to publicly advocate the necessity for a county superintendent of public schools, and conducted the first teachers' institute for I-Ion. Thomas Nicholson, the first county superintendent of Beaver county. He and Mr. Mair, of Rochester, Pa., were the originators of the Sabbath School Institute, and held the first institute in Rochester, and the second in the East Liberty Presbyterian church, Pittsburg. These annual institutes are now generally held. He was for years a member of the Prison Society of Western Pennsylvania.
Dr. Taylor served as director of the Third National Bank, and also of the Germania Savings Bank, of Pittsburg, and is a trustee of the Western Theological Seminary, of Allegheny, Pennsylvania. He earnestly pressed the necessity for, and the claims of, the Pittsburg & Lake Erie R. R., when that company was securing the right of way and stock subscriptions. He was also a director of the Freedom & Beaver Street Railway.
Dr. Taylor has a very large and well selected library; books on theology, biblical criticism, commentaries, practical religion, controversial, a large reference library, works on metaphysical subjects, on science and philosophy, physiology, biography, history and many miscellaneous works. He has given at various times over 1,000 volumes to other libraries and individuals.
HISTORY OF PHILLIPSBURG SOLDIERS' ORPHAN SCHOOL.
This was a new and most difficult field which opened for the labors of Dr. Taylor. The county superintendents of Beaver, Allegheny and Washington counties, together with Colonel Quay, recommended Dr. Taylor's appointment as principal, to open the first regular and exclusively soldiers' orphan school in Western Pennsylvania. Many friends of the Union and of the soldiers' orphans, knowing the Doctor's fitness for work of the kind, urged him to accept the trust. But there were very serious difficulties in the way, namely: The state would provide neither ground, buildings, books nor furniture; the uncertainty of the necessary appropriations was another obstacle; it would require $20,000 for the purchase of farm, buildings, furniture, house supplies, school room, books, and apparatus, etc.; the small amount allowed each orphan for board, clothing, schooling, books, etc., was insufficient. This amount was according to age,-for those under ten years of age, SI15 per year, and for those from ten years of age to sixteen, $150 per year. This was all the allowance made to meet all demands, including those of teachers, employees and medical attention. The work of caring for one hundred and fifty orphans would require twenty assistants, to be paid, also, out of this amount.
These obstacles made considerable risk in the undertaking, but Dr. Taylor took the risk and succeeded. It was difficult to obtain a suitable location in the congressional district. At last the former "Water-cure," later used as a summer resort, was purchased. It was repaired and refurnished throughout, and was enlarged by a dwelling 34 by 44 feet ; girls' hall, 20 by 41 feet, with high ceiling,-the hall including laundry, bakery and additional cook room; an additional building, a school room, 27 by 44 feet; a boys' hall, 24 by 46 feet; and a chapel, 26 by 46 feet. In addition to this, 210 acres of land was purchased,-the plant costing in all $48,000. This amount was all furnished by Dr. Taylor. This made literally a family home.
The next difficulty was to obtain and train teachers and help for this new and peculiar work, which required some time and changes. All the buildings were handsomely and tastefully furnished, as taste is essential to culture in girls and boys. The music rooms were carpeted with Brussels carpet and furnished with chairs, and a piano and organ, and the chapel was provided with an organ.
EDUCATIONAL.
The state prescribed eight grades as the extent of the educational course. To this Dr. Taylor found he could add four grades of a mathematical and scientific course, and one-fourth of the orphans were able to finish these four grades. The average annual progress of the school, on examination of the state committee, was one and five-eighths grades, while one-third made two grades, and an average standing of from 92 to 95. No one was promoted unless his or her standing was at least 75.
HYGIENE.
The laws of health and life were practically understood and carried out by Dr. Taylor, as the result shows. Food was given for bone-making, muscle, nerve, and brain. All clothing was fitted and adapted, perfect cleanliness of body, house, school rooms and work houses was required, and out-houses were thoroughly ventilated and supplied with an abundance of light. The following regulations were enforced: Nine hours of regular sleep; two hours of moderate, but diligent, work on fixed details; two hours of exercise, play or amusement, and, for boys, one hour of military drill, morning and evening; clean, warm feet; good shoes with common-sense heels, fitted by Dr. Taylor personally. Thus six hundred orphans were cared for, and it may be mentioned that two hundred of them required medical attention, on being received. Only four of the six hundred died in ten years, and three of these were incurables. All the rest, on examination by the state surgeon at the time of their discharge when sixteen years old, received the grading of "100," as to health,-with the exception of one thought to be in-curable, who was marked "95,"-and she is now in perfect health.
INDUSTRY.
With the aid of his excellent and well educated wife, his constant and efficient assistant, who was the recipient of a remarkable domestic training in all the branches of house-keeping and household economics, Dr. Taylor was able to originate a system of industrial details of labor, and to have recitations daily in classes under competent teachers, for thirty days in each department. By this method each girl in the institution, without losing a recitation in school, acquired an intelligent system and practical knowledge of the domestic work, such as scrubbing, washing, ironing, house-cleaning, dining-room work, cooking, baking, mending, darning, plain family sewing and fine dressmaking, all of which work was subject to the daily inspection of either Mrs. Taylor or the Doctor. Every room and department was open for the scrutiny of visitors daily, except Sunday, from 8 a. m. to 5 p. m., and all visitors were furnished with a guide to accompany them. All the surroundings and training in the work department were designed to form and confirm habits of system, to instil industry, refine the tastes and manners, and give beauty and ease to the person. These results can not be secured without regular habits of industry. The effects of this culture and training manifested themselves everywhere-in private, in public, at church, and in their success and influences in after-life.
MORAL, RELIGIOUS, AND GENERAL INSTRUCTION.
Dr. Taylor had a Bible class of all the scholars and employees of the institution, and also of his own family. He preached Sabbath morning, he taught the Sabbath school in the afternoon, and lectured in the evening on religious biography, Bible history, and archaeology. During the week, he also gave table talks each day,-talks about ten minutes in length on some subject, historical, moral, or economical,-on government, on passing events, or on incidents that occurred in school.
In addition to this, teachers of the institution were required, in evenings and on the Sabbath, to read, for the benefit of the scholars, an average of seventy-five volumes per year. By this method, their intelligence was increased, and their conscience educated to become the guiding and controlling motor of their lives and conduct. Dr. Wickersham, state superintendent of public instruction in Pennsylvania, in writing to Dr. Taylor about the institution, said : "I read, twice a year, the history of the fifty boys and girls you wrote at my request, and it seems to me you have found out the true secret of elevating our race." Each teacher was required to be a model to the scholars. Dr. Taylor's success in giving education, culture, self-control and good habits to his scholars, is commented on in the report of Prof. Beamer's lecture in the M. E. church; he said, in conclusion : "In my entire experience as a public lecturer, traveling through the United States, Canada, and Europe, I have never seen such perfect development of the physical organization as there is in the entire body of the children of the Phillipsburg Soldiers' Orphan School, under the care of Dr. Taylor, and as is presented tonight by the one hundred and fifty boys and girls here present. I have never seen in my experience on both continents, such perfect discipline and order as is here shown tonight by these attentive children, whose happy countenances testify that this discipline is the result of proper government, and not of fear. As a soldier of the war that made them orphans, I am happy to meet them, and thrice happy in seeing their home, their training, their education, and their preparation and prospects for usefulness in life."
Matthew Nickle was born on the first land purchased by his father and continued to live with his parents until he reached the age of twenty-three, although previously to that time he rented and cultivated a farm owned by his father. Upon his father's demise he became possessed of a portion of his estate, and has since made his home upon it. During the oil excitement, he leased his property, and realized large returns. He is a self-made man in every particular, as a boy being industrious and ambitious. He improved his condition in life steadily and grew to be one of the most influential agriculturists in the district, owning at the present time some five hundred and fifty acres of rich farm land. In 1867, he erected a handsome residence, which is well-arranged and appropriately furnished, and also put up fine barns and out-buildings. While he has attained more than ordinary success in his life's work, he has at all times been most liberal with his money,-lifting many of his less fortunate fellow men to their feet when in distressing circumstances. He is of a modest and retiring disposition, and would have his charitable acts overlooked, but his numerous friends, who have known him so well for many years, delight in telling of his generosity. Being a man of good character and pleasing habits, and a clever conversationalist, he is very popular.
In 1847, he married Margaret Patterson, by whom he had nine children, four of whom are now living, namely : Thomas F., who lives on the home farm; Alexander, who lives in Liverpool, where he is employed as a clerk in Robert Hall's lumber yard; Margaret R., who lives with her father; and William, who, when an infant, was adopted by Alexander and Mary Scott, of Ohio. Mrs. Nickle was called to her eternal home in 1868, and Mr. Nickle formed a second union, with Jane Hall, nee Bigger, who is also deceased. Politically, Mr. Nickle was formerly a Democrat, but is now a supporter of the Prohibition party. He is an elder of the U. P. church, and it was through him that the present fine church of that denomination was erected.
Peter Bebout was a native of Green county, Pa., but at an early date removed to Mercer county, where he bought two hundred acres of wild land. After clearing a portion of it, he built a house and barn, and followed farming all his life.
Ellis Bebout, father of the subject hereof, was born in Mercer county, where he received his scholastic training. He afterward assisted his father on the farm; one hundred acres of the homestead farm were given him as his share of the estate. He married Olivia Campfield. Olivia was born in Mercer, where she was also educated. The following seven children were born to them : John C., who was killed in the army when twenty-one; Wesley S., a merchant in Mercer county; William Irwin, the subject of these lines; Alfred S., a retired merchant; Andrew J., a merchant, of Pittsburg, Pa.; Elizabeth Jane (Hewett) ; and Mary A. Ellis Bebout was a Whig. He was a member of the M. E. church, of which he was Sunday school superintendent for years. He died in 1852, at the early age of thirty-eight years, and was survived by his widow until 1896 when she, too, crossed the river of death.
William Irwin Bebout was mentally instructed in the public schools, which he attended constantly until he attained the age of seventeen years. He then enlisted in the Union Army, September 2, 1861 ; he entered Company B, 76th Reg., Pa. Zouaves, and participated in the following battles : Pocotaligo, Fort Wagner and Strawberry Plains. He was engaged in the siege of Petersburg, in Butler's and Grant's campaigns in Virginia, in connection with the Mine Explosion, and other historical events. He was honorably discharged November 30, 1864. He was severely wounded by a gun shot at Fort Wagner, July 11, 1863. He was in the hospital at Hilton Head for about nine months. While there, he was treated not only for his wound, but for lung and heart ailments and for neuralgia. At Botany Bay Isle, he was treated for laryngitis for several weeks. Mr. Bebout's brother, John C., was in the same company, and was killed while on picket duty at James Island, June 15, 1862.
Mr. Bebout was joined in marriage April 2, 1872, with Margaret M. McConnell. Mrs. Bebout was a native of Mercer county, Pa., where she was born, February 8, 1847. She was a daughter of Henry and Julia A. (Bruce) McConnell. Her primary education was received at her native place. Afterward, she entered Edinboro State Normal School, from which she hoped to graduate. Ill-health prevented this, however, compelling her to leave the institution. To Mr. Bebout and his amiable wife, one child, Anna Maude, was born ; her birth occurring in Darlington, in September, 187. After preliminary schooling she took a finishing course at Darlington Academy. From the time of the death of her beloved mother, in 1889, Anna Maude kept house for her father until her marriage with Mr. S. S. Leiper, of Darlington.
After the war, the subject of this sketch engaged in farming for one year and then for several years was a carpenter. He subsequently clerked awhile for his brother, who was a druggist. In 1872, he purchased Dr. Ball's business and started a drug store at his present location in Darlington. At a late date he added the lines previously mentioned, an() enjoys a liberal patronage. As a businessman he is exceedingly popular. In politics, Mr. Bebout is a Republican. He has served in the borough council for several terms, and is still a member of that honorable body. He is in accord with the United Presbyterian church. Fraternally, he is enrolled as a member of the I. O. O. F., of Sharpsville, Pennsylvania.
S. J. Fair was born in Armstrong county, Pa., in September, 1866. He is a son of Philip and Nancy J. (Gregg) Fair, and grandson of John and Susannah (Christman) Fair. John Fair was born in Armstrong county, Pa.. in 1804. He was a descendant of a prominent German family, that settled in Armstrong county in early days. They bought a good-sized farm of forest land. After making a clearing, they built a log house and barns ; a part of this farm,--24o acres of improved land,-was left to the different members of the family. John Fair was instructed in the schools of his native county, but, as was unavoidable in those early days, his schooling was limited. However, he made the most of his opportunities. He learned the art of tilling the soil on the old homestead, which he eventually owned. His marriage with Susannah Christman resulted in the birth of four children, namely: William; Philip; Chambers, who was killed in the Civil War, while serving as drummer; and Susannah (Yerty). John Fair followed general farming until his death, in 1888.
Philip Fair, father of the subject of this biography, was born February 26, 1832, in Armstrong county, Pa., one-half mile from the birthplace of S. J., his son. He became a very fair scholar and after leaving school, learned the trade of a stone mason. He worked for his father until he attained the age of twenty-four years. He then bought a farm of sixty-five acres which he cultivated, but still continued to live with his parents until his marriage, in 1860. He was joined in matrimony with Nancy J. Gregg. Nancy was born May 2, 1840, and was a daughter of George Gregg. Eight children resulted from this union, viz: Harvey, a blacksmith; George, a merchant; Annie (Hellam) ; S. J., subject of this sketch; Charles, an engineer;
Ross, Barney, and Claude, the last three -being engaged in mercantile pursuits. After his sons grew up, Philip Fair left the care of the farm to them, and worked at his trade as stone mason. He followed that business as a contractor for about fifteen years. He was a Republican, but had no ambition for office. He was a member of the Lutheran church, of which he was an elder for fifteen years. His death occurred May 4, 1898.
S. J. Fair attended public school and became quite proficient in all studies required in a business course. He assisted his father on the farm during summers, and acted as clerk in the general store of his uncle, John Fair, during the winter months. This was continued until his twenty-first year. He then followed contracting and building at Leechburg, Pa., in partnership with one of his brothers. For two years they were very successful. Mr. Fair then sold his interest to his brother and retired from this line of work. In company with his brother George, he bought property and started a bakery and confectionery store. One year later, our subject sold his interest to his brother. Mr. Fair then went to Williamsport, Lycoming county, Pa., and started a similar store, which he conducted for three years. In 1892, he sold his store in Williamsport and moved to New Brighton, Pa., where he opened a grocery store. He did a successful business there for over two years, but fin-ally sold out. He then invested in a dwelling house in New Brighton, which he rents. Soon after he purchased his present store and removed to Smith's Ferry.
Mr. Fair married Wildia McCracken. She was born in Armstrong county, in 1867, and is a daughter of James McCracken. One child, Margie Ethel, now brightens their home. She was born October 22, 1893. The subject of this narrative is a prominent stockholder in the Iron City Building & Loan Association. He is a Republican, but is too busy for political ambitions. He favors the Presbyterian church. Socially, he is allied with the Knights of Pythias. He is also a member of Glasgow Lodge, No. 485, F. & A. M., and is now passing through the chairs.
Mr. Patterson was always a busy man. In his younger days he taught school at the Darlington Academy; he also conducted a school in the basement of his church at New Galilee, and had a private school on his own farm. His business interests extended beyond that of farming; he was a large stockholder in the Little Beaver Woolen Co., and was for many years president of the company. His political belief was on the side of the Republican party, but he constantly refused to accept any office. He was a public-spirited man and took an active interest in all things pertaining to the welfare of the community. He married Eliza J. Gilliland, a daughter of David Gilliland, a pioneer of Beaver county. They reared seven children : Jennie (McCready) ; John; David G.; Isabella; Robert; Samuel; and Ada.
David G. Patterson was a pupil of Darling-ton and Bridgewater academies. After receiving his intellectual training, he returned to the farm and assisted his father in its management. In a few years he and his brothers assumed the full care of the place, and he has continued in that connection until now. After his father's death the property was left to the heirs, but as yet the shares have not been allotted. The brothers operate a large dairy,-having at times as many as forty-five cows.
Mr. Patterson is a member of the U. P. church. His political affiliations are with the Republicans, and he has satisfactorily served as assessor, collector, and constable, for his townsmen. He is a stockholder in the creamery of his native place.
In June, 1874, Mr. Dixon commenced work on the New York Central R. R. and had charge of laying the tracks of the third and fourth lines on the Rochester and Syracuse division. The following year, however, he was induced to return to the New Jersey Midland R. R., where he was placed in charge of 87 miles of track. He remained on that road until 1881 ; at that time he went to Warren, Pa., and accepted a position as superintendent of a construction train on the Western New York & Pennsylvania R. R., between Warren and Salamanca. He held that important post until 1882. His next move was to engage with the road with which he is still connected. He was first superintendent of track-laying and overseeing the building of the road. When the road was completed, he was appointed superintendent, which position he held until 1887. Later, the road changed hands and Mr. Dixon remained as conductor. In 1893, he was appointed to his present important position as roadmaster, and has the entire charge of building tracks, bridges, locomotives, and everything outside of general office work. He is also master mechanic and train master. The subject of this record is a son of B. D. and Ruth A. (Calvin) Dixon, and grandson of John and Christiana (Ireland) Dixon.
John Dixon descended from an old Connecticut family. When a young man he located in Luzerne county, Pa., where he bought T00 acres of land. He followed farming all his life. His union with Christiana Ireland resulted in the birth of a large family of children, of whom Mr. Dixon's father was the second born. B. D. Dixon, this gentleman, was born in Dalton, Luzerne county, Pa., in October, 1826. After attending the public school, he learned how to till the soil, and followed that line of occupation until 1857, when he began railroad work. After working in the carpenter gang for a short time, he was promoted to be section foreman, and then to be supervisor, in charge of the track-laying gang. Ruth A. Colvin became his wife. She was a daughter of George Colvin, and was also born in Luzerne county, in 1824. Seven children resulted from this union. They are : Mary, now deceased; Caroline (Waldron) ; Emily M. (Latimer) ; George W., the subject of this biography; Florence A. (McCullom) ; Frank; and John, who died in infancy. In politics, B. D. Dixon was a Democrat. Religiously, he was an active member of the Baptist church. He died in 1885, but is still survived by his widow.
George W. Dixon was joined in marriage with Margaret A. Poole, a fascinating daughter of William Poole. Mrs. Dixon was born in Morris county, N. J., May 10, 1856, and received her mental training in the public school. Her marriage resulted in the birth of eight children, namely: Caroline A. (Beeson) ; Georgiana (Harris) ; Frank D.; Mary (Mc-Cowin) ; Howard G. ; Irene, a student; Nellie ; and Cornelius. Mr. Dixon is faithful to the interests of the Republican party. He has served as school director and as a member ofthe council. He is a faithful member of the M. E. church. Socially, he is a member of Meridian Lodge, No. 411, F. & A. M., at Darlington, Pennsylvania.
In 1887, the subject of our sketch built his present store in Glasgow, and started a grocery. Glasgow is located on the C. & P. R. R. near the Ohio River, and is the terminus of the C. & P. branch railroad, recently constructed to New Lisbon, Ohio. Mr. Laughlin went into business there during the oil excitement, and the place at that time boasted of five hundred inhabitants. The oil interests of the place were, however, then on the decline, and the town has gradually gone back to its present state. It is simply another illustration of the rise and decline that has characterized so many oil towns. But during all the fluctuating fortunes of the town, our subject has remained at the same old stand where he has ever enjoyed a fair patronage. In addition to handling a fine line of staple and fancy groceries, he has also a choice stock of notions, patent medicines, hardware, confectionery, flour and feed; he deals also in tobacco and cigars.
July 19, 1860, Mr. Laughlin was united in marriage with Priscilla Calhoun, a charming daughter of James Calhoun, a well-known boat builder. Priscilla was born in Beaver county, where she also received her scholastic training.
To the subject of this biography and his esteemed wife, have been born five children, all of whom received a practical education in the district schools. Their names are: Charles D., a plumber; James O., a gauger in the employ of the Standard Oil Co.; Bertha M. (Childs) ; William, a prominent plumber in Rochester, Pa.; and Abner L., who is also an expert plumber. Mr. Laughlin takes an active interest in the affairs of his town and is a prominent member of the Republican party. He has served as councilman and as school director. He resides in a fine residence, beautifully located on the bank of the Ohio River. Mr. Laughlin worships at the M. E. church of which he is steward. He is exceedingly popular.
JAMES R. CAUGHEY, a miller residing in Darlington, Pa., on the ancestral homestead, was born in the same house which he now occupies, March 22, 1831. He is a son of James Caughey and a grandson of Samuel Caughey.
Samuel Caughey was born in the eastern part of Pennsylvania, and went west to Beaver county, settling near Hookstown, about the beginning of the present century. In 1810, he moved to the farm where the subject of this memoir now lives. About that time the Land Population Company began their attempt to dispossess the settlers of their land. This, naturally, caused alarm and indignation among the people. Finally, one member of the Company was shot by an irate settler, and when the Company realized what a hornet's nest they had brought about their ears, they were forced to suspend operations. When Samuel Caughey settled in Darlington, that place contained only one or two buildings. It was then called Greersburg, and is the oldest town in that section of the Keystone State. The old academy, which was built in 1802, was then only eight years old. It is now used as a depot by the P. L. & W. R. R. Company. Few settlers had then located in the district, and roads were far from numerous. The one extending in front of the residence of the subject of these lines was then the old stage line between Pittsburg and Cleveland, long before the advent of railroads in that vicinity.
Mr. Caughey owned forty acres of land and, in 1812, built a grist mill, run by water power. This was one of the first mills in Beaver county, and was in the family for three generations. It was operated until 1870, James R. Caughey's grandfather having spent all his life as a miller. He and his good wife reared five children, namely: Betsy (McGeorge) ; Polly (Hanna) ; Hetty (Duff) ; Samuel; and James.
James Caughey, father of James R., was born in Octoraro, Pa., in 1782, and received the greater portion of his mental instruction in the eastern part of Pennsylvania. After leaving school, he assisted his father until the War of 1812 broke out. He took an active part in that conflict, serving under General Harrison at Fort Meigs. On returning from the war, he assisted his father in the milling business. Upon the death of that beloved parent, the mill became the property of James and his brother Samuel. They operated it in partnership until James purchased the interest of his brother. At first the mill was of the old-fashioned stone process type, and later had the Burr process. All kinds of grain and feed were ground. The capacity of the mill was 20 barrels of flour and 150 bushels of chop daily. James Caughey was largely self-educated, but made the most of his opportunities, and was known to be a well-informed man. He was a discriminating reader and a clear thinker. He enlarged and enriched the library left him by his father. He was an Abolitionist of the most intense type. He was executor and administrator for several estates in the district, and served as school director and supervisor. He and his family were in accord with the Reformed Presbyterian faith. Margaret Johnston became his wife. She was reared and educated in Beaver county, and bore her husband four children, namely : S. G. ; James R., the subject of this sketch ; Margaret, deceased; and Jane, who still prefers single blessedness.
James R. Caughey received his primary instruction in the public schools, and later graduated from the academy at Darlington. He then assisted his father in the milling business and became an active partner. His progressive nature made him quick to note and take advantage of any improvement in machinery. He put in steam power in 1856, and doubled the capacity of the mill. August 28, 1861, he enlisted in the "Roundhead," or 100th Reg., Pa. Vol. Infantry. He was second lieutenant of his company, and was assigned to duty in South Carolina, under General Sherman. Exposure and the southern climate, caused him to contract malarial fever, and he was sent home as unfit for further service. As soon as he recovered his health he again, assumed his duties at the mill, which he continued to operate for years afterward. In 1876, he sold this mill and purchased a portable saw mill. For ten or twelve years he conducted that successfully, but finally sold it and started a chop mill, which he still runs.
In 1865, Mr. Caughey was joined in marriage with Mary A. Johnston, an attractive daughter of Andrew Johnston. She was born in Fayette county, Pennsylvania. Three children, Paul, James G., and George, blessed this union. Paul learned blacksmithing, and is now working in the silver mines of Idaho. James G. is a competent engineer, and holds a good position in the silver mines in New Mexico, being employed in a stamping mill. George died at the age of twenty-one years.
The old house occupied by the subject of this sketch was built in 182o, and is still in a good state of preservation. He built thepresent barns, and now does a little farming also. In polities, he works hard for the success of the Republican party, and has been supervisor for three terms. He cares nothing, however, for political distinction, and is not an office-seeker. He is an ex-member of the G. A. R., and unites in worship with the Reformed Presbyterians.
WILLIAM A. GARTSHORE, a progressive and enterprising citizen of Aliquippa, Pa., whose portrait is shown on the preceding page, is superintendent of the J. C. Russell Shovel Company, one of the most flourishing establishments in Beaver county. It was one of the first plants to locate at Aliquippa, which is admirably situated in the famous Beaver Valley and on the Ohio River,-extending to the tracks of the P. & L. E. R. R. It was organized in 1892 by the gentleman named above, with others. The following are the officers: J. L. Cooper, president; William A. Gartshore, vice-president; E. H. King, secretary; and J. J. McKee, treasurer. They manufacture shovels and drain tools of all kinds, which are shipped to all parts of the country.
The process of shovel manufacturing is a very interesting one, and these works are of a modern type, the latest machinery and improved methods being employed under the personal supervision of Mr. Gartshore, who has had many years of experience in that line. In the main building, whose dimensions are 240x80 feet, all of the shovels are made. A solid bar of steel is heated and passed between rollers of great power, and there the first rough shape is made; it is then pickled, placed in proper dies, where it is cut and trimmed to the proper shape, and then taken to the machine which forces the handles on, and rivets them in place. They are then polished, taken to the shipping room, and thence sent to all parts of the world. While this meagre description makes the process appear simple, the opposite impression is conveyed upon a visit to the factory. There the ponderous machinery with its immense fly wheels, rapidly revolving rollers, gigantic presses, and intricate machinery of various kinds, compels a respect for the shovel, which was not felt before seeing this useful implement in the course of manufacture. Adjoining the mill is the machine shop, with its full equipment, and on its other side is the drying room which is used to dry handles. Mr. Gartshore, the gentleman in charge of this important plant, is a man of wide experience in his business. He is held in the highest esteem by the men under his supervision, and by his associates, and he de-ports himself toward everyone with the greatest kindness and consideration.
The subject of this sketch was at one time a trusted employee of Hubbard & Company, of Pittsburg, Pa., and had charge of their shovel works, for a period of eight years. He faithfully discharged his duties to the best of his ability, and it was with regret that they permitted him to resign, in 1892, when the J. C. Russell Shovel Company was organized. Hebecame vice-president, and a director, of the company, and has put forth his every effort to make the venture a successful one.
In September, 1888, Mr. Gartshore was united in marriage with Miss Laura Dunhorn, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. They have two children,-Laura and Park.
SAMUEL LEVINE, a gentleman who by means of the superior faculties with which he is endowed by nature, has worked his way from a lowly station in life to one of prominence in his community, is proprietor of the leading general store in Aliquippa, Hopewell township, Beaver county, Pennsylvania.
Mr. Levine was born in Poland, Russia, in 1861, and got his education there in the public schools, after which he assisted his father, who was a commission merchant, until he was old enough to go into business for himself. He came to this country in 1886, landing in the city of New York with but twenty cents. Thrifty and ambitious, he immediately set to work, and what he has since acquired has been due exclusively to his own industrious efforts. It is a boast which he may well feel proud to make, that he has never worked for another, but has always been his own "boss." Remaining in New York .City but two months, he went to Troy, N. Y., and purchased a horse and wagon,-becoming an itinerant merchant. He carried the thousand and one things for which there is a demand in the country, and worked up a very successful business, at which he continued until he settled in Aliquippa, when that town was first started. He has a splendid business and the most complete line of merchandise carried by any dealer in the county. He purchased the two-story building which he now occupies, and has divided it into three departments. The left wing is a fully stocked shoe store in the front, and the rear is used as a ware room. In the rear of the main store is the grocery department, and in front, the dry goods department. He is a man of great enterprise, and has endeavored to equip his store with every article which his customers may demand, having a comprehensive line of dry goods, clothing, boots and shoes, hats and caps, hardware, house furnishings, notions, carpets, oil cloth, jewelry, tobacco and cigars, feed and seeds, millinery and gentlemen's furnishings, china and glassware, wall paper and tinware. He built his store seven years ago, and added the shoe store annex later. His efforts to please the people are being rewarded, as his patronage is steadily increasing, and he is rapidly earning for himself the title of the most progressive merchant in the borough. Besides this business, in which he employs five hands, he owns valuable building lots in Aliquippa. He has erected another two-story frame building adjoining the old one,-the first floor, 50x 20 feet, being used as a dry goods store, and the second floor, 58x24 feet, being devoted to the purposes of a public hall.
In 1889, Mr. Levine and his wife, Rebecca, were married, and they have five children, two of whom are attending school. Fraternally, he is a member of the order of Odd Fellows. In politics, he is always ready to exercise his privilege as a citizen, but has never sought office.
JOHN CONWAY, president of the John Conway Banking Co.; president of the Keystone Tumbler Co., and at one time a leading dry goods merchant of Rochester, Beaver county, Pa., is, today, one of the most influential men in that thriving borough, and is notable for sound judgment and sterling integrity. He has been a very successful business man, and his opinion in all matters pertaining to business and financial questions, is of great worth. Mr. Conway was born in Economy township, Beaver county, Pa., March 27, 1830, and is a son of Michael and Mary (O'Brien) Conway,
Michael Conway was born in County Kerry, Ireland, and came to America in 1825. He located in Economy township, and bought 23o acres of partially cleared land on the bank of the river. There he built a log cabin, and later a frame house. The farm is now owned by John Conway and his sisters. He made many improvements on the place, and it became one of the best kept and most prosperous farms in that section. He married Mary O'Brien, who died at the age of seventy-eight, her husband dying when sixty-six years old. Their children were as follow: Abigail, deceased, who was the wife of James McGuire ; Thomas, deceased, who was a farmer; James, attorney, who married Jane Sheldon, served as captain in Company H, 139th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., was wounded in the battle of the Wilderness, and later died from the effects of the wound; John, the subject of this biography; Joanna, who married Peter Ivory, of Perrysville; and Mary, the widow of William Emery, of Indiana.
John Conway, whose name heads this sketch, was reared on the farm, and attended the common schools and the college of Vincennes, Indiana, and then returned home, and became a clerk in a dry goods store at Pittsburg, where he remained for one year. He was then a clerk for eight years on a steam-boat on the Ohio River when he returned to Rochester. In 1856, he opened a dry goods store in New Castle, Pa., and after two years spent in that place again came to Rochester and bought the building at 749 West Madison street, which was built, in 1848, by Bonbright and Irwin. There he started a dry goods store, in 1857, and was very successful, continuing in the business until 1871. His store was the principal one in Rochester at that time. In 1871, he closed out, and established a general banking business, the company being comprised; of the leading men in Rochester. Gradually Mr. Conway bought. out the interests of his partners, until, at this time, he is the sole owner of it. The bank was built by Bon-bright and Irwin, but purchased from J. H. Whisler. The subject of this sketch has built and sold many fine residences in Beaver county, and has dealt quite extensively in real estate. He has always taken an active interest in the progress of Rochester, and was one of the original promoters and stock-holders of the Olive Stove Works and of the Heat & Light Company. He is president of the Keystone Tumbler Co., of which a description is given elsewhere.
Mr. Conway married Thalia Bentel, a daughter of Philip Bentel, of Freedom, Beaver county, and to them have been born two children, namely : Lilian M., married to N. F. Hurst, of Rochester, Pa.; and Charles B., who is his father's assistant,-he married Emma Pfeiffer, a daughter of Benjamin Pfeiffer, of Rochester, Pennsylvania. Mr. Conway is widely known throughout the county, and wherever he goes he makes many friends, and keeps them. In politics, he is an active Democrat, and has served in the borough council and as school director. He is a Mason, and a member of the Presbyterian church. He was one of the promoters of the project to build the Masonic block at Rochester.
VICTOR MANUFACTURING COMPANY. Another of the many
manufacturing establishments for which Beaver county is noted is that of the Victor Mfg. Co., where cast-iron, enameled bath-tubs are made.
There are but about a dozen concerns of this character in the country, the principal ones being in Pittsburg and vicinity. The officers of the Victor Mfg. Co. are : J. F. Bruggeman, president; John Rebman, Jr.,secretary and treasurer; and F. D. Cook, manager of the works. The works are located in Aliquippa, Beaver county, Pa.
The company has a fine site of 3 1/2 acres of land lying between the P. & L. E. R. R. tracks and the Ohio River. Their plant comprises foundry, pickling and cleaning shop, enameling boiler and engine rooms, and warehouse and office. They have had success in marketing their product, and have always had sufficient orders to keep the works running steadily. Their plant, with exception of warehouse and office, was destroyed by fire in May, 1898, since which time the manufacturing has been carried on in temporary buildings.
The Victor Mfg. Co. was organized in 1896, through the agency of William C. Degelman, of Pittsburg, who for two years was general manager. Mr. Cook, the present manager, is from New York, and, before engaging in the bath-tub manufacturing business, had been interested in the making of enameled advertising signs. Mr. Cook is an independent Republican, in politics, and, fraternally, a member of the Royal Society of Good Fellows.
HERMAN F. DILLON. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch, and whose portrait is shown on the preceding page, has for many years been one of the active and influential residents of Beaver Falls, Pa., and it is in terms of highest praise that his fellow-citizens speak of him.
Having long been one of the leading business men of that thriving borough, he has done much to promote high business standards, and in every sense of the word has been an exemplary citizen, one of whom the people are justly proud. Mr. Dillon was born in Beaver, November 2, 1856, and is a son of Henry N. Dillon.
Henry N. Dillon, the father of Herman F., was born in Big Beaver township, Beaver county, Pa., in 1824., He was a pupil in the district schools of Beaver county, and after farming for a time upon his father's estate, moved to Beaver and engaged in the teaming, hauling and general contracting business. In 1884, he removed to Beaver Falls, and went into the wholesale oil business, which he followed during the remainder of his active life. In early years he was a Whig, but on the formation of the Republican party, he cast his vote with that organization, and gained quite a local fame by virtue of his personal association with Abraham Lincoln. Mr. Dillon was an active and aggressive worker in his party, but never sought office. He was a liberal supporter of the Methodist Episcopal church. He was united in marriage with Mary A. Supplee, a daughter of the late William Supplee, who was for many years a resident of Beaver county, having come from Chester, Pa., in 1839.
The father of the subject hereof died in March, 1892, and his death was greatly mourned by all in the community. The Dillon men are all of large size, and are well-known for that physical trait.
Herman F. Dillon received his early mental training in the common schools of Beaver, and in Beaver Academy, and when fourteen years of age removed, with his parents, to Ohio township, his education being completed in that district. When but sixteen years old, he went to Pittsburg, where he was placed in full charge of a milk depot and route, owned by Jesse Smith, of Smith's Ferry, Pennsylvania. After two years he returned to Beaver county and went into the oil business at Island Run, where he became a general contractor. He remained there until January 1, 1882, and then accepted a position with the Beaver Falls Gas Company, for which he worked until 1885, when he was appointed superintendent of the entire plant. He continued with this company until 1897, when other business interests and political duties made it necessary for him to resign.
Mr. Dillon was one of the promoters of the Beaver Falls Improvement Company, a society formed of public-spirited men, whose object was to attract manufacturing interests to that town. He is a promoter and director of the River View Street Railway Company and also a promoter and director of the People's Building & Loan Association,-a most substantial organization which had its inception in 1884,-and is also a member of the Tribune Publishing Company, printing a daily and weekly newspaper at Beaver Falls, and doing also a large business in job printing. Mr. Dillon is one of the stockholders in the Beaver Falls Water Company, which was started by several public-spirited men for the purpose of supplying the town with pure water at a much lower rate than had previously prevailed. Too much credit can not be accorded to this company, as the relief from the oppression of the old water company has been a great blessing to the people of Beaver Falls. Mr. Dillon is a Republican of the strongest type, and was elected to the council, the first term, in 1893, and served until 1897, when he resigned his seat to accept the office of register and recorder. The subject of this sketch cast his first vote for President Garfield, and has been active in politics ever since. For many years he was a member of the county committee, serving as its secretary and treasurer, and was also chairman of its executive committee. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he has always been a most faithful supporter. He is a member of several fraternal organizations, namely : Glasgow Lodge, No. 485, F. & A. M., of which he has been a member twenty-one years; Harmony Chapter, of Beaver Falls; Pittsburg Commandery, No. 1, of Pittsburg; Beaver Falls Lodge, No. 293, K. of P.; Rochester Lodge, No. 283, B. P. O. E.; Walnut Camp, of Beaver Falls, Woodmen of the World ; Beaver Falls Tent, No. 53, K. O. T. M.
Mr. Dillon married Jennie M. Kerr, a daughter of John Kerr, of Darlington. She was born at Darlington, in 1853, and pursued a course of study in Darlington Academy, afterwards teaching school until her marriage. The children which resulted from this union
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are: Herman Ross, born in Beaver Falls, who is now a student; Blanche V., born in Ohioville; and Walter E., a student, born in Beaver Falls.
ROBERT G. YOUNG, a well known lumber merchant of Beaver county, is located at New Galilee and deals in all kinds of building materials, sashes, doors, blinds, mantels, inside finishings, shingles, agricultural implements, barbed and galvanized wire fencing, and also does considerable business as a slate-roofer. He is one of the substantial business men of that section and is everywhere respected as a citizen of worth and influence. He is a son of Robert and Jane (McAnlis) Young, and was born April 4, 1845, in Big Beaver township, Beaver county, Pennsylvania.
Peter Young, his grandfather, was born in Ireland, where he was educated and spent the early part of his life. He came to America, located east of Pittsburg, Pa., and entered the employ of Captain Crawford, a hero of the Revolutionary War. He subsequently went to Saw Mill Run, and in the year 1800 removed to Beaver county, where he purchased from Mr. Wylie, the original patentee, a farm of i00 acres of wild land. He built log sheds and a log house, and at that time there were but three white families in the district. Indians were very numerous, and many interesting stories are related in connection with adventures and encounters with them. Mr. Young remained on the farm the remainder of his life and successfully confronted the many difficulties and hardships to which the early pioneers were subjected. He reared the following children: John, a farmer; WiIliam; Algeo; Nancy (Wright); Elizabeth; Rebecca; James, a practicing physician of Westmoreland county; and Robert, father of the subject hereof.
Robert Young was born in Beaver county, Pa., in 1803, and was reared on the old homestead farm, receiving such an education as circumstances would permit. He learned farming and assisted his father until the latter's death, when he succeeded to the home property. This he greatly improved by erecting new buildings, clearing the land and raising an orchard. He was an Abolitionist, and then a Republican, in politics. He was a consistent member of the Presbyterian church, and for twenty years served as elder. He died in 1862, at the age of fifty-nine years. His union with Jane McAnlis resulted in the following issue: James M., who died at the age of fifteen years; Margaret; Susan (Patterson) ; W. J., a farmer; Robert G., the subject of this biographical record; Hamilton A., a farmer; and Lizzie.
Robert G. Young obtained his elementary education in the schools of Beaver county and received an excellent business training in the Iron City Business College, of Pittsburg, in 1867. He learned the trade of a carpenter after spending some time as a bookkeeper in New Castle, Pa. He plied his trade in the states of Iowa and Missouri, until 1870, when he returned to Beaver county and became a contractor. In 1882, he started in business as a lumber dealer, being the first in the locality to take up that line of trade. His yard is located near the Ft. Wayne tracks at New Galilee, and there he carries all kinds of sawed lumber, in addition to the articles enumerated above. He is also an exporter in walnut logs, selling to various foreign markets. He owns a fine home, and a small farm in Lawrence county, Pennsylvania.
In 1876, Robert G. Young formed a matrimonial alliance with Lucy Wallace, who was born in Lawrence county, and is a daughter of John and Margaret Wallace. Seven children were born to them, as follows : Clarence, who is in partnership with his father, and is a graduate of the Beaver Falls high school; Maggie ; Rutherford J.; William Harvey; Mary E.; James G.; and Kenneth W. Personally, Mr. Young is a genial man, of public spirit, and is very popular locally. He is an earnest church worker, having built the Presbyterian church, and has been an elder since 1894. He is very liberal in his contributions toward its support. He is, politically, a Republican.
LORENZO C. KIRKER, a veteran of our Civil War, is a much respected citizen of Beaver Falls, where he has been engaged in the carpentering business for many years. He is a son of John S. and Elizabeth (Rutter) Kirker, and was born in that part of Beaver county which now forms
a part of Lawrence county, August 21, 1843.
His grandfather was Robert Kirker, a native of this county, but his entire life was spent in Butler county, Pennsylvania. The father of Lorenzo C. was born in Butler county, Pa., but came to Beaver county early in life, where he resided during his remaining days. His occupation was that of a shoemaker, at which he was quite successful. He belonged to the old state militia, in which he was a major.
The subject of this writing was reared in Lawrence county, Pa., and obtained his elementary education in the public schools of his native district, and then took up the carpentering trade, which he made his principal occupation. Prior to 188o, he resided in New Castle, Pa., where lie was employed in a planing mill, but in that year he became a resident of Beaver Falls, where he has since lived. He engaged in the grocery business soon after coming there, but gave it up and resumed his former occupation. Mr. Kirker is quite prominently known throughout this vicinity, and enjoys the reputation of an honest, upright and conscientious citizen. When the Civil War broke out, our subject laid aside all plans for the future, and went to the aid of the Union, enlisting July 14, 1861, in Company H, 9th Reg. Pa. Reserves for a term of three years. He was wounded at the battle of Antietam, in September, 1862, and was taken to the German Reformed Church Hospital at Frederick, Md., where he remained six months; upon recovering, he again joined his regiment, with which he remained until he was honorably discharged at Pittsburg, Pa., May 12, 1864. While with his regiment, he took part in the battles of Dranesville; Mechanicsville; Miner's Hill; Savage Station; Malvern Hill; Second Bull Run; South Mountain; Antietam; Gettysburg; and in many small skirmishes.
Politically, Mr. Kirker is a prominent Republican of the community, and is now serving as judge of elections. February 5, 1865, he was joined in marriage with Miss Jeannette Cunningham, and they reared six children : Evelyn L., the wife of C. B. Jolley, of Beaver Falls; Cecilia, the wife of Charles D. Garrett, also of Beaver Falls; Flora A., the wife of John Richards, of Beaver Falls; Harry V. (wedded to Jeannette Craig, of Afton, N. Y.), who is engaged in carpentering with the subject of our sketch; Rosa, who is the wife of A. C. Bellis, of Beaver Falls; and Edward L., who also works with his father at the carpenter's trade.
ABRAHAM WEST, deceased, who was for many years one of the foremost farmers of Marion township, was a descendant of an old and highly respected family of Beaver county. He was a son of Peter and Agnes (Boyd) West, and was born in New Sewickley township, Beaver county, Pa., in 1825.
Peter West, the father of Abraham, was born in West Virginia and, in 1805, removed to Beaver county, Pa., with his parents. He rented a farm in Franklin township, but later bought one known as "The Knob," in New Sewickley township, where he lived and farmed for a period of twelve years. He then purchased a tract of four hundred acres in Marion township,-a portion of which is now owned by Mrs. West,-and upon this he erected a fine brick residence. He died there in 1865, and his wife, whose maiden name was Agnes Boyd, died in the year of 1879.
Abraham West, the subject of this sketch, always lived upon the home farm, the original property being divided upon the death of his father, and Abraham receiving two hundred and fifty acres. Ile carried on farming and was extensively engaged in sheep-raising and dairying,-in late years shipping the milk to Allegheny. He died on July 30, 1897, and his death was universally mourned, as he was everywhere respected as a man of true worth and influence in the community. Since his demise, Mrs. West, aided by two of her sons, has carried on the farm with good results. They still continue to ship the milk to Allegheny, and have a herd of twenty-two cows. Their farm is mostly flat land, and is very productive, being unexcelled in that vicinity.
Abraham West, on March 6, 1860, was joined in wedlock with Mary Jane Sowash, who was born in Brighton township, Beaver county, and is a daughter of Frederick Sowash. The latter came from Mercer county to Beaver county when a young man, and was a stone mason by trade. This union resulted in the birth of seven children, as follows : Virginia (Wilson) ; William B., a fireman on the Fort Wayne R. R., who lives at Allegheny; Clinton P., a farmer in Butler county; Joseph
F., deceased; Abraham G., who is living at home; Charles, who lives in Zelienople, Butler county; and John F., who is at home. Politically, our subject was an active supporter of the Democratic party. We take pleasure in presenting his portrait, which appears on a preceding page.
JOHN HENRY LOWRY. As one of the representatives of the agricultural class of citizens of Beaver county, we take great pleasure in presenting the life record of the gentleman named above, one of the most progressive and influential farmers in North Sewickley township. He was born on Main street in Allegheny City, Pa., and is a son of John and Sarah (Wagoner) Lowry.
John Lowry, the father of our subject, was born in the vicinity of Harrisburg, and was a young man when he removed to the city of Pittsburg. He was a bridge blacksmith by trade, and many old landmarks are standing, today, as monuments of his skill. The old covered bridge at Beaver Falls, and, in fact, nearly all of the covered bridges built in that region during his time, are the result of his workmanship. In the spring of 1857, he moved to North Sewickley township, where he bought a farm of one hundred acres. Prior to this, however, he had given up his trade, and for some years had been a stationary engineer in the city of Allegheny. After his removal he devoted all his time to farming, and when he purchased his property it was an unbroken piece of timber, but beforehis death most of it was cleared. He was a very industrious man and at the time of his death was in comfortable circumstances, financially. He was united in marriage with Sarah Wagoner, and their happy home was blessed by the birth of eight children, as follows: David E.; Martha Jane, the widow of A. J. Steele; Elizabeth Ann, deceased; John Henry, the subject hereof; Lucinda V., the wife of William Chaney, who resides at Conway, Pa. ; William J., who resides at the home of John Henry Lowry; and two who died in early childhood. Politically, Mr. Lowry was a stanch supporter of the Democratic party, and was elected to a number of the township offices.
The subject of this writing was but nine years of age when he removed with his father from Allegheny, where he had attended the common schools, to North Sewickley township. He continued to attend the public schools, acquiring a good intellectual training, and has lived on the farm, coming into full possession of it upon his father's demise. He has very successfully managed his affairs, and since buying an additional hundred acres of land, has as fine a property for agricultural purposes as Beaver county contains. He employs only the most approved methods of farming and has more than one thousand dollars' worth of improved machinery. His land is exceedingly rich with coal, having a five-foot vein, but is mined by outside parties, this being a source of considerable income to Mr. Lowry. He is a man of exceptionally strong character, a true friend and a devoted husband and father. He has many friends and acquaintances throughout this section of the state, who respect him as a man of influence and true worth to the community.
On September 2, 1882, Mr. Lowry was united in marriage with Elzena Fombell, of North Sewickley township, and three children are the issue of their union, as follows: Myrtle; Lulu; and John Roy. Politically, Mr. Lowry is a Democrat of the sturdiest type, and has been the incumbent of all the township offices. In a religious connection, he and his wife are conscientious members of the Presbyterian church.
GENERAL J. S. LITTELL, ex-sheriff of Beaver county, now a representative farmer of Big Beaver township, Beaver county, Pa., is a descendant of 'Squire William Littell, an old Revolutionary hero, and one of the early settlers of Beaver county. 'Squire William Littell was born in Belfast, Ireland, in 1740. He attended the public schools of Belfast and came to America while still a young man. He wedded Elizabeth Walker, who was also a native of Ireland. They reared nine children, namely: Elizabeth (Reed) ; Jane, now deceased ; Mary (Todd) ; Alice (Sharp) ; Agnes; James; William, father of the subject hereof; David; and Thomas.
At the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, General Littell's grandfather held a clerkship in the army (being private secretary to Gen-eral George Washington), and served in that capacity throughout the war. His brother, James, was a soldier, and served under the illustrious Washington until the war was ended. A letter written in Fort McIntosh in 1779, by James to William, is still in the possession of the subject hereof, and is in a good state of preservation. It proves James to have been a good scholar. After the war, William went to Beaver county, Pa., where he took up a large tract of land in Hanover township. This tract was all wild land. Settlers were few, and wild game was abundant. William Littell made a clearing and built a large hewed-log cabin upon it,-also building a barn. He was appointed "Squire" by the governor of the state,-a position which he filled until the time of his death, in 1819. He died aged seventy-nine years.
William Littell, Jr., father of General Littell, was born upon the old homestead in Hanover township, in 1794. He attended the district schools, after which he taught for several years. He was joined in marriage with Cynthia Smith, a daughter of John and Nancy (McClure) Smith. Mrs. Littell was born in Adams county. Twelve children were the result of this happy union. Their names are: J. S., the subject of this sketch ; Eliza (Robertson) ; Rebecca (Calhoun) ; Maria (Ewing) ; Nancy (Ewing) ; Cynthia, wife of J. McHenry; William M., who died in infancy; a second William M.; David; Washington; James M.; and Henry. The wife of William Little, Jr., died in 1853. Our subject's father was a farmer by occupation, and lived many years on the old homestead farm. He sold this, however, and bought 155 acres near Beaver. His farm products were disposed of in Beaver and vicinity. He served in the War of 1812, and was ordered to duty on Lake Erie. While crossing the Ohio Swamps, he contracted the measles which nearly proved fatal. In politics, he was first a Whig and later a Republican, but had no aspirations to office. He belonged to the Seceders' church.
General Littell was the recipient of a good scholastic training, which he obtained by attending district school. He subsequently learned surveying, although he never followed that profession. He taught school for three terms in Beaver county. In 1845, his marriage with Mary Calhoon was solemnized. Mary was born in Raccoon township in 1821, and was a daughter of Richard and Sarah (Moffet) Calhoon. She was called away from her earthly home, August 1, 1897. Seven children were born of this union, viz.: Richard W.; William P.; Robert C.; Isidore S. (White) ; Harriet (Rhodes) ; Joseph; and Isabell. Richard W. served three and one-half years in the 76th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., as drummer boy (this being his father's regiment). William enlisted in the 6th Reg., Ohio Cavalry, and had some narrow escapes. On one occasion he was sent to the hospital. Joseph, the youngest son, resides on the farm with his father.
After his marriage, General Littell engaged in blacksmithing for ten years. He then bought the first portable saw mill ever used in Beaver county, which he operated for oneyear. In 1853, he joined a militia company, of which he was elected captain. He was afterward appointed brigade inspector of the 19th division. In the fall of 1861, he recruited a company for the 76th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., and was chosen captain, and was ordered to the South. From a volume entitled "Martial Deeds of Pennsylvania," the following extract is taken : "Brig. Gen'l. J. S. Littell fought with his company of the 76th Pa. Vol. Inf., at James Island, and a few days later at Morris Island. He also took part in the first and second assaults on Fort Wagner, where he led his company with great bravery." On Morris Island, General Littell had charge of the entire regiment for thirty days. On the first of July, 1862, he was severely wounded, but continued to fight and would not give up, although suffering great pain. The next morning, he received a serious wound in the right arm and side.
The attack on Fort Wagner was very disastrous, as it resulted in the loss of almost one-half of the regiment. On May 31, the subject of our sketch was promoted to be lieutenant colonel. The very next day he was again wounded, a ball passing through both thighs. After remaining in the hospital for some time, he was removed to his own home. His recovery was slow. On August 17, he was promoted to a colonelcy, and, the following January, sailed with the expeditions under Generals Butler and Weitzel, and later served under General Terry in the attacks on Fort Fisher, which commanded the approach to Wilmington. In the midst of an engagement, while gallantly leading the assault, General Littell was again wounded by a ball. This ball struck him in the left thigh, passed through a pocket-book, and lodged in his body. While a disastrous day for him, it was a glorious one for the Union Army. Although suffering severely, General Littell was able to exult in the splendid victory. He was removed to Fortress Monroe, the ball having been extracted while on the field. Later, he was sent to his home. Upon the recommendation of General Terry, as a merited recognition of his distinguished valor, he was created a brevet-brigadier general. While recovering from the wounds received at Cold Harbor, a party of inferior officers tried to secure the General's discharge from the army. This was done to better their own chance of promotion. Rumors of the situation reached the General before their plans had finally matured, however, and, with his wound still running, he returned to his command. It is a fact worthy of note that of all the commissioned officers who went out with the regiment, the subject of our sketch and one other alone returned.
After such a notable war record, General Littell was urged to be a candidate for sheriff, and was elected by a large majority, in 1866. Immediately after the expiration of his first term, he settled upon the farm where he still lives. This farm contains 233 acres of fine, improved land and was purchased from Harrison Power. The General erected another house and built better barns, and his farm is conceded to be one of the best in his section. For many years he operated a dairy. He wasone of the organizers of the creamery in Darlington, of which he is still a stockholder. He was president of the same until he declined to serve longer, but is still retained on the board of directors. He now makes a specialty of raising early lambs for the market. He is a Republican, and has served as school director and as supervisor. He is also an elder of the United Presbyterian church.
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CLYDE W. INMAN, a manufacturer and merchant of Cannelton, Pa., was born in Chippewa township, Beaver county, in 1867. He received his scholastic training in the schools of his native town, and in Darlington Academy. After leaving school, he began to work in a coal mine, doing the
work of a bailer. This he followed for a short time, and then commenced work on the N. Y.,
P. & C. R. R., which was during the construction of the road. After a few months, he
again returned to the mines as a coal digger for Mr. Mansfield, a well-known operator.
In 1884, he made another change, this time entering the carpenter department of the Allegheny car shops. One year later, he returned to work for Mr. Mansfield as a carpenter, to do the wood work in the manufacture of the Grimm drill. In 1886, he opened a general store in Cannelton in partnership with his father and brother. Fifteen months later, he bought out the interests of
his partners, and has since conducted the store alone. He also bought the plant of, and the right to manufacture, the Grimm drill. In 1893, he built a new work shop and put in new machinery. He has an upright engine and boiler, two screw-cutting lathes, a large drill press, forges, and numerous jigs, and labor-saving devices.
In connection with his factory, Mr. Inman operates a general blacksmith shop, where he manufactures picks, sledges, wedges, bars, etc. The market for his goods extends through the states of Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Alabama, Illinois, and Michigan. The Grimm drill is a tool subjected to years of actual test, and has been demonstrated to be the most durable, effective, and economical drill in the market. It finds a sale in every land, and has everywhere been crowned with the highest competitive honors. These drills bore one and one-half to three inch holes, and eight feet deep at any angle, in coal, fire clay, rock, and slate.
Mr. Inman keeps a stock of general goods in his store, varying from groceries to hardware. He has a large warehouse and is well equipped to satisfy the demands of miners and farmers. He is also a member of the firm of Inman Brothers, miners and shippers, his partner being his brother, G. W. Inman. Their coal trade is local, but they ship a clay, which is like Cannel coal, peculiar, and as fine a quality as can be found in any part of the world.
The subject of this sketch married Laura E. Flays, daughter of Charles Hays, the well known blacksmith, of South Beaver township. They have three children : Lena W.;
Zoe M.; and Hannah E. Mr. Inman is a strong Republican, and a member of the county committee. His fraternal associations are with the I. O. O. F. and Meridian Lodge, No. 411, F. & A. P.M. He also belongs to the junior Order of United American Mechanics. His sympathies are with the church of the Seceders.
DR. JAMES S. LOUTHAN, a prominent physician and surgeon of Beaver Falls, Pa., has, by his perseverance and strict attention to professional duties, placed himself in the foremost rank of physicians in Beaver county, and has built up a large practice in the home of his adoption, where he has been located since 189o. Dr. Louthan was born in South Beaver township, Beaver county, Pa., April 28, 1856. He received his early scholastic training at Darlington. Academy, after which he followed the profession of teaching for four years, subsequently attending Westminster College. He began the study of medicine under Dr. Moon, and later studied with Dr. Strouss: He took the required course of lectures at Cleveland Medical College, graduating in the class of 1882. Dr. Louthan began the practice of his profession immediately after his graduation, locating at Fairview, Beaver county, Pa., where he remained until 1890, when he located in Beaver Falls, and is still to be found there.
Dr. Louthan is a quiet, unassuming gentleman of a very pronounced, studious nature.
To him it is a pleasure to keep in step with the wonderful advances made of late in his profession. No new thing escapes his attention, and he is quick to grasp and utilize any modern discovery, which may be used to the advantage of his patients. Careful and conservative, he is a strict adherent to the ethics of his craft, and possesses the traits of a true professional worker. Dr. Louthan descended from one of the first families of Virginia. He is a son of James Louthan, Jr., grandson of James Louthan, Sr., and great-grandson of Moses Louthan.
Moses Louthan was a native of Scotland, and his parents were the first representatives of the family in America. They settled in Virginia, where their son Moses, in early manhood, engaged in farming. Later in life, however, he removed to South Beaver township, Beaver county, Pa., being one of the earliest settlers of that county. He was a member of the Salem church congregation, and was one of its first elders. Moses Louthan lived to be over eighty years of are. His wife, Betsy, bore him seven children, as follows: James; George; William; Samuel; Henry; and Betsy. James Louthan, the next in line, was born in Beaver township and received his mental training in the vicinity of his home. Like his father, he followed the occupation of a farmer, settling on a farm adjoining the old homestead, where he remained a few years, and then sold it and moved to the state of Ohio, settling near Worcester. There his death took place, in his forty-third year.
He was joined in wedlock with Anna Bradshaw, a daughter of Robert Bradshaw, of South Beaver township. Mrs. Louthan died at the advanced age of eighty-three years. As her husband died early in life, the rearing of the family fell mostly upon her shoulders. Two sons and three daughters were the offspring of this worthy couple, named as follows: Moses; Sarah (Sebring) ; Eliza ; Susan (McConnell) ; and James, Jr., father of the subject hereof. They are now deceased, except James, the youngest.
James Louthan, Jr., was born near Worcester, Ohio, but obtained his schooling in South Beaver township, Pa., whither his mother had removed soon after the death of her husband. At the time of his father's death, James was but six years old. Upon reaching manhood, James became apprenticed, and learned the carpenter's trade in New Brighton. In that capacity he worked upon the first brick building in that flourishing borough, and followed his trade almost uninterruptedly for over forty years, making his home in South Beaver. He was an industrious, enterprising citizen, with a love for work and a capacity for achieving success in whatever he undertook to accomplish. He also followed agricultural pursuits, and was respected by all men of character and position. Purchasing twenty acres of woodland, he cleared some, and built a home, very soon adding sixty acres more. In 1838, he wedded Nancy Strain, a daughter of James Strain, of Chippewa township. Mrs. Louthan passed away from her earthly home in June, 1879, after assisting in rearing a family of ten children. Mr. Louthan sold the homestead, and removed to Darlington, remaining there until 1896, when he went to Beaver Falls, and is now spending the sunset of life in retirement. One remarkable fact concerning this family is their general good health; neither the father nor any of the children ever had any serious illness. Mr. Louthan was first a Whig, then a Free-soiler, and later a Republican, in his political attachments. He is strong in his belief, and is intensely interested in the governing policy of the nation. In his religious views, he is a Covenanter. His children's names are: Mary A. (Craig) ; Asa (Martin) ; Rebecca (Rayle) ; Susan M. (Hartzell) ; Elizabeth W. (Cox) ; Bradford; Allie (Bradshaw) ; James S. (subject) ; Nancy (Patterson) ; and John.
Dr. J. S. Louthan was united in marriage with May Johnson, an entertaining daughter of Joseph Johnson, who now resides in Beaver Falls. Their nuptials were consummated in 1884, and their home is brightened by the presence of two daughters: Ethel Zoe; and Elizabeth Gemiska.
Dr. Louthan is a Republican, and takes a fitting interest in party affairs. He is a member of the Beaver County Medical Association. Aside from his professional duties, he is a very energetic gentleman in the town and county. He was one of the organizers of the Dime Savings & Loan Association, of Beaver Falls, and is one of its directors. He is also a director of the Farmers National Bank.
J.O. BROWN is the junior member of the firm of Steffler & Brown, manufacturers of paving brick, in Darling-ton, Pennsylvania. Mr. Brown was born in Armstrong county, in October, 1867. After receiving a practical education in the public schools of his native county, he learned the trade of a carpenter, working as a journeyman in Armstrong county, and later in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. He went to the latter place in 1885, and entered the employ of Mr. Steffler, a prominent contractor and builder of that city. He remained in the employ of Mr. Steffler for a period of ten years, and became an expert workman.
In 1896, in company with Mr. Steffler, Mr. Brown purchased the plant of the Darlington Fire Brick Company, then owned by Messrs. Cook, Sturgeon & Cook, and since then business has been carried on under the firm name of Steffler & Brown. Their plant is strictly up-to-date, and covers about three acres of ground. Adjacent to it is a bed of fine clay and coal. The clay from this district is as fine as may be obtained in any part of the world. Large quantities of the raw and ground clay are shipped to all parts of the United States. At the works are five large draught kilns and three large dry tunnels. Each kiln holds 60,000 brick. The kilns are kept going all the time.
The engine house adjoins the machine room, and is equipped with two 100 horse power boilers and an 80 horse power engine. This large engine runs the crusher and dry pan for grinding clay, also the wire cutting machine, the soft mud machine and the repressing machine. One brick-making machine has a capacity of 20,000 bricks per day. A smaller engine operates the fan for the dry tunnel.
The company owns its own railroad siding, and a network of train and trestle roads for the transportation of clay and coal from the banks to the works. The main offices of the company are in Pittsburg. About twenty men are constantly employed, and the products of the plant are shipped to Pittsburg and throughout the West.
Mr. Brown was united in marriage with Lily Steffler, the accomplished daughter of his business partner. Their marriage took place in Pittsburg. Mrs. Brown was born in Lawrence county, in 1872. One son, Harry, horn June 8, 1896, is the result of this most happy union. Mr. Brown is a stanch Republican, but has given his attention strictly to his business interests, having no time for political campaigning. Both Mr. and Mrs. Brown are faithful attendants of the United Presbyterian church, and contribute generously towards its support. They also assist worthy charitable institutions. Both are well and favorably known in social and religious circles throughout Beaver county.
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Transcribed by Kate Michaelson