Beaver County Genealogy Trails Simon HARROLD
Biographies
SIMON HARROLD, a prominent contractor of Beaver Falls, and a member of the State Legislature
from Beaver county, Pa., has been a resident of that borough since 1866, and it may be said that no man has worked more conscientiously to advance its interests than he.
Mr. Harrold was born in Columbiana (now Mahoning) county, Ohio, November 3, 1840, and is a son of Samuel Harrold.
His grandfather was David Harrold, a native of Bucks county, Pa., whose father fought under General Washington at Valley Forge, and a descendant of the sturdy Saxon race. Samuel Harrold, the father of our subject, was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, August 16, 1816.
Simon Harrold received his education in the schools of Mahoning county, Ohio. Upon leaving school he went to Springfield, Ill., and started in business in partnership with a Mr. Eberhardt as a general contractor, continuing for three years. He then returned to his home and after his marriage moved to Beaver Falls, in 1866, becoming one of the first business men of that town. The population did not exceed 100, the borough being incorporated in 1868. Mr. Harrold built a planing mill in partnership with a Mr. Crane,and they procured lumber from the North and West. He purchased the first car load of lumber that was ever shipped to Beaver county from the West, the transportation charges from Cleveland amounting to $48. He also engaged in contracting alone and soon established a wide reputation. The planing mill was named the Beaver Falls Planing Mill, and after Mr. Crane's retirement, in 1869, our subject became the principal member of the firm and so continued until very recently, when he retired from the active management of the business. They manufacture doors, window sashes, and all kinds of building material. Mr. Harrold has always been engaged in contracting and has built more houses than any other contractor in the district, and has built every hotel in the borough. He has been awarded many large con-tracts throughout the surrounding country, including nearly every factory in Beaver Falls, in all or in part; the courthouses at New Lisbon and Coshocton; several locks and dams on the Monongahela and other rivers; street paving,-an example of which is the elegantly paved streets of Beaver Falls; the street railway from Pittsburg to Coraopolis, the People's line, and the Riverview; the waterworks at Beaver, Pa., and Leetonia, Ohio ; and the pump station for the Monongahela Company at Becks Run and Esplin.
Mr. Harrold was joined in wedlock with Louisa Schauweker, who was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, and is a daughter of Jacob Schauweker, who was born in Germany, but came to America where he followed the trade of a tanner and leather dealer, a business followed by the family for many generations. This union resulted in seven children : Julia E. ; Irvin C. ; Alberta A.; Mary ; Isadore ; Katie; Alfred. They were all educated in Beaver county and are graduates of Beaver Falls High School. Politically, our subject is a Republican and cast his first presidential vote for Lincoln. He has always been an active party worker and although he has never sought office it has at times been thrust upon him. He helped to organize and was one of the first councilmen in the borough, and has served in all fifteen years. In 1898, he was elected a member of the State Legislature from Beaver county, in which body he has always been an active worker, doing his utmost to further the interests of his constituents and those of the state. He voted regularly with the Republican party for the election of Quay in the senatorial contest, and the resulting deadlock has convinced him that the proper way to elect a senator is by the direct vote of the people. Religiously, he is a member of the M. P. church. Fraternally, he is a Mason, belonging to Valley Echo Lodge, F. & A. M., of Beaver Falls, Pa. Mr. Harrold's portrait accompanies this sketch.
ELLIS N. BIGGER, county solicitor for Beaver county, Pa., is also a prominent attorney of Beaver. After attending public school, young Bigger took a finishing course at Frankfort Academy, after which he followed the profession of teaching public schools and in Frankfort Academy, for a period of four years. He then registered as a law student with the late Samuel B. Wilson, then one of Beaver county's most prominent and able attorneys. Mr. Bigger was admitted to the bar June 2, 1879, and soon after began the practice of his profession. alone, in Beaver. He continued thus until 1882, when he entered into partnership with Frank Wilson. Mr. Wilson died in 1883, after which the firm became Bigger & Henry (T. M. Henry) until 1891, since which Mr. Bigger has practiced alone. He has been very successful as a lawyer, and is an able writer and speaker. Although he never aspired to office, he has served in the borough council for six years, and has recently been elected county solicitor for three years, which will make an incumbency of eight consecutive years in the latter office. The subject of this sketch is an ardent advocate of thorough educational systems, being a member of the borough school board. He owns a fine residence on Raccoon street, built by J. F. Dravo, and containing all the modern conveniences. Mr. Bigger's residence is handsomely furnished, and he boasts of having one of the most elegant, select libraries in the borough. He is a man of rare literary taste and is a lover of the best works.
Mr. Bigger chose for his life partner Jean Blanche Love, a favorite daughter of the late Robert and Jane (McClure) Love, of Mercer county. Robert Love was a progressive merchant tailor of that place, and died when seventy-two years old, while Mrs. Love died at
the age of sixty-two years. The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Love: John, who died young; Emma, wife of A. F. McNair; Alfretta, single; Christopher L, who also died young; Catherine, deceased; and Jean Blanche, wife of the subject hereof.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Bigger are devout Christians, being willing workers in the Presbyterian church, besides giving liberally of their means to many charitable institutions. Mr. Bigger is a thirty-second degree Mason, and a member of the Knights of Pythias. He is in every respect a man of force and influence. He has a fund of experience to draw from, that is of a superior order. As a prominent man in his profession, his judgment and foresight have been brought to a keen edge from contact with the shrewdest of business men. The success which has come to him is but the natural result of his incessant and well-directed efforts.
Ellis N. Bigger was born September 17, 1856, in Hanover township, Washington county, Pa. He is a son of Thomas and Mary (Nicholson) Bigger, grandson of James and Mary (Biggart) Bigger, great-grandson of Thomas and Elizabeth (Moore) Bigger, and great-great-grandson of Matthew Bigger. Matthew Bigger was born at a place called Bigger, in Scotland, and on account of religious persecutions fled to Ireland, settled in County Antrim, near Belfast, where his death occurred. He left a widow and six children. The names of the latter were: John, James, Samuel, Thomas, Jane, and Elizabeth. The three eldest sons remained in Ireland, but
Thomas and his two sisters, Jane and Elizabeth, accompanied by their mother, came to America.
Thomas, the fourth son, was born in 1738, and upon attaining manhood, he fell in love with Elizabeth Moore, the daughter of a wealthy man, who objected to their marriage on account of Thomas being a poor man, and a weaver by trade. But notwithstanding the father's objections, the young folks were married, and shortly afterward Thomas induced his mother and two sisters to accompany them to America. They landed at Baltimore, Md., October 16, 1773. Thomas, upon learning that land was cheap in the "wild west," journeyed overland to what is now Raccoon town-ship, Washington county, Pa., and near Raccoon creek he took up a large tract of land. He was of a proud nature, but was a sturdy worker, and the height of his ambition was to become an extensive land owner. In his native country, only the wealthy had large landed possessions, but, by struggling hard against almost overwhelming difficulties, with the aid of his ever-faithful wife, he gratified his heart's desire. He built a log cabin and felled the forest trees, and he lived as only the brave pioneers did; but he prospered, and at the time of his death he was a well-to-do and progressive farmer. His life shows that "what man has done, man can do." He and his devoted consort reared a family of ten children.
James Bigger, grandfather of Ellis N., served in the War of 1812, as a private, being stationed at Fort Mal don. He was united in marriage with Mary Biggart, in 1816, and the same year purchased a farm in Hanover township, Beaver county, Pa. This farm was formerly owned by Magnus Tate, and contained four hundred acres, mostly new land. He built a two-story house of logs, which was later replaced by a fine, large, brick residence, which is still standing. The farm is now owned by H. R. Wilson. James was one of the earliest men of the county to promote agricultural progress. It is said that he owned the first threshing machine ever used in the township, or in that vicinity. Men came many miles to see it. He also owned the first mower, and obtained many other agricultural implements before his neighbors did. He was very naturally regarded as a leading man in the community. His wife bore him the following children: Samuel, who married Jane Fulton; Jane, who was twice married, her first husband being a Mr. Hall, and her second, Matthew Nickle; Mary, wife of Rev. J. P. Moore; Thomas, the father of Ellis N.; Eliza A., wife of David Nickle; Martha, wife of Joseph K. Buchanan; Ellen, wife of David Nicholson; James M., who married Margaret Morrow; John, who married a Miss Childs; and Robert, who married Ann Kieffer.
Thomas Bigger, father of our subject, Ellis N., was born on his father's farm January 9, 1826. During his youth he assisted his father in clearing the farm and when he attained manhood he still lingered there until his marriage with Mary Nicholson, which occurred on the second day of November, 1854. After his marriage he settled in Hanover township,
Washington county, Pa., but later purchased a part of the old homestead farm, near the famous Frankfort Springs, where he has lived ever since, owning one of the finest farms in Beaver county. This farm is now in a state of fine cultivation, and contains a handsome residence, splendid barns, etc. Early in life Mr. Bigger devoted much time and attention to sheep raising, but subsequently he discontinued that branch and turned his attention to general farming; he has now practically retired. He has always been a public-spirited man, and has served as school director for many years; he was one of the founders and original stockholders of the Frankfort Academy. In politics he was a Democrat previous to the formation of the Republican party, since which he has supported the latter. Both he and his aged wife are Christians, being active members of the United Presbyterian church. This worthy and highly esteemed couple, although on the shady side of life, are hale and hearty, and hope to welcome many friends at their hospitable home for years to come. Mrs. Bigger was born May 6, 1834, and is a daughter of Hon. Thomas Nicholson. She bore her husband two sons, and one daughter, namely; Ellis N., the subject of this sketch; Inez J., wife of David S. Strouss; and James Carl, attorney-at-law in Steubenville, Ohio.
Hon. Thomas Nicholson, the maternal grandfather of the subject hereof, enjoyed the distinction of being the first superintendent of schools of Beaver county, Pa. He was for many years a teacher of Frankfort Academy. He was also elected to the legislature and served as justice of the peace. His life was considered among the most worthy in the annals of Beaver county.
DR. JOHN H. DAVIS. We may safely say that there is no physician and surgeon in Beaver county better or more favorably known to the public, than the gentleman whose name heads these lines, who commands an excellent practice in the vicinity of Hookstown, where he is located. He has made a specialty of surgery, having had a most thorough training in that direction, and he is very frequently called to attend cases in Pittsburg, Beaver, and Liverpool. The profession of medicine is not the only sphere in which he shines, however, for as an impersonator he has almost a national reputation. Unlike most of the followers of the latter profession he recites from his own works, and is thus enabled to give to his renditions that peculiar earnestness and desired expression, which none but an author can give to his compositions.
Dr. Davis comes of an old and highly respected family of Beaver county, and his great-grandfather, a mechanic by trade, came from his native country, Wales, and located in Western Pennsylvania. His grandfather was John Davis, who was born in West Elizabeth, Pennsylvania, and moved to Beaver county about sixty years ago. His occupation was that of a boat builder, but after locating in this county, he turned his attention totilling the soil. He purchased 200 acres of land in Moon township, this becoming the old homestead, and in addition, owned one-hundred and forty acres in Independence township, He died in 1884, having lived a long and useful life. In politics, he was a Republican, and a prominent one, but was not an office seeker.
James Davis, the father of John H., was horn on the farm in Moon township in 1847, and received a good scholastic training in the public schools, after which he attended, and was graduated from, Edinboro State Normal School. He then taught school for two terms, after which he bought the 140 acres of land owned by his father in Independence township, where he has since been actively engaged in agricultural pursuits. He has greatly improved his property, and has one of the finest farms in the county, making a specialty of truck gardening. He is a Republican in politics, and is an enthusiastic sup-porter of that party. He was united in hymeneal bonds with Susan C. Engle, who is a native of Vanport but whose family now resides in Raccoon township, Beaver county. The following children blessed their home: Dr. John H., the subject of this record; Frank F., a graduate of Cleveland University, who is now actively engaged in practice in East Liverpool, Ohio; Henry, who lives at home; Maggie; Annie; and Blanche. Mr. Davis is now serving as justice of the peace.
Dr. John H. Davis was born 0n the old homestead, and after receiving a common school training, he took a course in Sheffield Academy and Slippery Rock Normal School. He then took an advanced course in literature under a private tutor and a classical course at Cleveland. He developed exceptional talent as an elocutionist and ventriloquist, and traveled two years as a public reciter and impersonator. His interpretations of emotional lines are of a high order, and are rendered with much dramatic ability. With the cleverness of a true artist, he adapts himself to the character of his piece, and at times shows such realistic feeling that a sympathetic wave sweeps over his hearers, carrying them beyond the affairs of their every day life to the scene portrayed by the rendition. His humorous selections are equally well received, as he injects his own bright, vivacious and humorous spirit into the character he produces. In such entertainments the troubles of the audience are cast into the background, and merriment reigns supreme. He was everywhere well received, and has more than one thousand testimonials from some of the most learned men in the different sections of our country, speaking in the highest praise of his ability, and commenting favorably on his dramatic powers and keen sense of humor. There are but eight authors in the United States who recite from their own works, and we take great pleasure in reproducing one of Dr. Davis' poems. It was written when our country was at fever heat over the destruction of the battleship Maine, and when first given to the public at New Cumberland, West Virginia, was enthusiastically received. It is as follows:
Dr. Davis' success was not only a great pleasure, but it enabled him to secure the necessary funds to attend college, and satisfy his ambition to become a physician. In the fall of 1890, he entered the Cleveland Medical College, in which he devoted one yearto hard and careful study. The next four years were spent in the Cleveland University of Medical Surgery, where his training was of the best, and in 1895 he was graduated under H. F. Bigger. During the summer of the same year, he located at Georgetown, Beaver county, Pa., and engaged in practice in partnership with Dr. M. S. Davis. One year later they dissolved partnership, and in 1896, the subject hereof located at Hookstown, where he has since remained and has built up an enviable practice. He is very popular with his fellow-citizens, who repose in him the greatest confidence, and his success is due solely to his own efforts. He has kept thoroughly abreast of the times in the advance made in the science of medicine and surgery, but nevertheless still devotes a portion of his time to literature.
In October, 1897, Dr. Davis was joined in matrimony with Maggie Blackmore, a daughter of John Blackmore, of Hookstown, and they have one child, James, who was born February 12, 1899.
Dr. Davis is a member of the Beaver County Medical Society; the State Medical Society of Pennsylvania; the American Medical Society; fraternally, he belongs to the blue lodge, F. & A. M., of Smith's Ferry; I. O. O. F., of Smith's Ferry; and the Jr., O. U. A. M. He was a state delegate of the latter order at the age of eighteen, and enjoyed a fine trip to Washington, Atlantic City and Philadelphia. Politically, he is a stanch Republican, whilst in religious faith and fellowship, he is a Presbyterian.
WILLIAM APPLETON McCONNEL, of the law firm of Buchanan
& McConnel, is one of the members of the Beaver county bar, of some prominence although still a young man.
He was born in the borough of Bridgewater, Beaver county, Pennsylvania, October 23, 1866, and is a son of William Phillips and Lydia Ann (Stewart) McConnel, grandson of James and Elvira (Phillips) McConnel, and great-grandson of James and Rebecca (Wisbie) McConnel. This latter James McConnel was of Scotch-Irish descent, and was born in the northern part of Ireland, from which he emigrated to America, locating near Green Garden, Raccoon township, Beaver county, Pa. He was described as being an exceedingly tall man, very active and exceedingly witty, and was familiarly known as "Uncle Jimmy." He was joined in wedlock with Rebecca Wisbie, who died while still a young woman, and was survived by her husband until he attained the age of about eighty years. They were the parents of the following children: Henry; James; John; Jane (Orr); and Polly (Ensley).
James McConnel, Jr., the grandfather of our subject, was born in Washington county (now Allegheny county), Pa., and was a steamboat carpenter and builder. He settled in Freedom, Pa., where his death occurred in 1862, at the age of sixty years. He was united in marriage on Sunday, February 28, 1830, by the Rev. George Holmes, to Elvira Phillips, who was a daughter of Stephen and Rhoda (Parsons) Phillips. Stephen Phillips,was one of the prominent men of Beaver county in the early days, very largely interested in the development of the country, especially in the line of steamboat building. He and Jonathan Betz bought a large tract of land, on the northern side of the Ohio River, from William Vicary, in 1832, and laid out the town of Freedom as it is at present; afterwards, associated with John Graham, he bought a tract of land on the south side of the river from Frederick Rapp, which afterwards became the borough of Phillipsburg (named after him), and is now the borough of Monaca. In both places, boat-yards were established and the one in Freedom has been in operation until within very recent years. The panic of 1837, however, almost bankrupted him, and on the 17th of November, 1855, he was drowned off the steamboat Jacob Poe, at the port of Wheeling, West Virginia, on his passage home from Portsmouth, Ohio, and his body was never recovered. His age was seventy-five years, eleven months and twenty-one days. His wife, Rhoda (Parsons) Phillips, survived him until March 1, 1861, when she died at the age of seventy-eight years.
Elvira (Phillips) McConnel was a native of Vermont, having been born March 28, 1811, on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, whence she came West with her father about 182o. She died January 6, 1897, in the eighty-sixth year of her age, leaving to survive her the following children: William Phillips; James, of Bridgewater, Pa.; Alonzo Henry, located in Pittsburg; Alcinus Clark,of Allegheny, Pa., Hiram Smith, a leading physician of New Brighton, Pa.; Emma Annette, widow of Ben. J. Stephenson, of Seattle, Washington ; and Omar Montague, of Atchison, Kansas.
William Phillips McConnel, above-named, was born at Phillipsburg (now Monaca), and with his father became a steamboat carpenter and builder, engaging in this occupation for about ten years, during which time he assisted in building boats on the Ohio, Mississippi and Tennessee rivers.
After that he engaged in the business of keeping a general store, for several years at Olean, Ohio, and later at Freedom, Pa. But river life suited him better, so he accepted a position as clerk on a steamer, and was soon promoted to secretary and treasurer of Gray's Iron Line of the city of Pittsburg, which position he held for twenty-five years. Having resigned his position with Gray's Iron Line, he became, in 1895, secretary of the Beaver Valley Traction Company, which position he still occupies.
Mr. McConnel was twice married, his first wife being Elizabeth Stewart, a daughter of David and Catharine (Baker) Stewart of Bridgewater, Pa. She passed to the life beyond at the early age of thirty-one years, leaving three children: Ada Annette, who died April 1, 1896; Laura Stewart; and David Stewart. Mr. McConnel was married afterwards to Lydia Anne Stewart, a daughter of Charles M. Stewart of New Brighton, Pa., and a cousin 0f his first wife. She bore her husband the following children : William A.,subject of our sketch; Lillian Augusta, who, after graduating from Mount Holyoke Seminary, South Hadley, Mass., in 1891, and teaching in the high school at New Brighton, Pa., died on October 28, 1898; Jessie, who is a teacher in the Allegheny Kindergarten Association; Richard Gray, who served during the War with Spain, in 1898, as an ensign in the U. S. Navy, and is now a lieutenant in the U. S. Marine Corps; Paul George, who graduated in medicine at the Western University of Pennsylvania, in 1899, and is now on the staff of the West Penn Hospital, Pittsburg; and Charles Hiram, a student at Pennsylvania State College.
William A. McConnel attended the public school at Bridgewater until 1882, when he entered the high school at Beaver, Pa. From there, in 1884, he went to Phillips Exeter Academy, at Exeter, New Hampshire. In June, 1886, he took his examinations at Shadyside Academy, near Pittsburg, for admission to Yale University, which he entered that fall. He graduated, with a High Oration standing, from Yale, in 1890.
He then studied law under the preceptor-ship of John M. Buchanan, Esq., of Beaver, and was admitted to the bar January 23, 1895. He was immediately taken into partnership by his preceptor, under the firm name of Buchanan, Reed & McConnel, which afterwards became Buchanan & McConnel, Lewis W. Reed retiring from the firm. Since then he has risen rapidly in his chosen profession, and today the firm of which he is a member is considered one of the best in Beaver county.
Our subject was united in marriage with Sarah Stokes Bruce on July 10, 1895, in the First Presbyterian church, Beaver, Pa., by the Rev. P. J. Cummings. Sarah (Bruce) McConnel is a daughter of William H. Bruce, a highly respected citizen of Beaver, Pa. This union has been blessed with two children: William Bruce, born May 5, 1896; and Stewart Phillips, born March 10, 1898. Mr. McConnel is a member and trustee of the Methodist Episcopal church of Beaver, Pa., a member of the Epworth League, and teacher in the Sabbath School of that church, taking great interest in all church work.
WILLIAM CALDWELL FRENCH. Conspicuous among the young men of sterling worth in Beaver county, Pa., whom business or professional work has given a wide acquaintance throughout the county, and whose public service is ever highly esteemed, is William Caldwell French, a rising young attorney of Beaver. Mr. French was born in Beaver, Pa., and, after graduating at the high school at that place, he registered as a law student in the office of J. H. Cunningham, one of
Beaver county's most noted attorneys. After pursuing his studies very diligently, young French was admitted to the bar, and spent the following three years associated with his preceptor in the practice of his profession. Since that time he has been practicing alone.
Our worthy subject is an influential member of the Presbyterian church, and althoughan active man in the interests of Beaver county, he has never sought office.
William Caldwell French is a son of Capt. Samuel B. and Emily (Robinson) French, and grandson of Joseph and Martha (Newton) French. Joseph French was born November 3, 1781, at Brown Mills, Burlington county, New Jersey, and while still a young man, learned the art of making shoes by hand in his native state. In Morristown, New Jersey, he met Martha Newton, a young Quakeress who became his wife. The young folks went west to Beaver county, Pa., shortly after the year 1800, locating in Brighton, which is now Beaver Falls. At that place, Mr. French began the manufacture of boots and shoes, giving employment to several hands. After following that occupation very successfully at Brighton for a period of eight years, he removed to Beaver, where he carried on a similar but more extensive business during the remainder of his life. He made fine, and also coarse, footwear of all kinds not only for the laboring classes, but for the most aristocratic families in Beaver, and townships adjoining. Shortly after moving to Beaver, he purchased a home on the southeast corner of Elk and Second streets, where he and his wife lived until their death.
He was a very progressive man and made considerable money, nor was he content to deal in footwear alone; in addition to his very heavy trade in that line, Mr. French also rented several farms, and carried on agricultural pursuits to a considerable extent. Be-sides rearing a large family, he was exceedingly charitable and assisted many in need,-very often, it is said, to his own disadvantage. Thus he became extremely popular and was much beloved. Several years prior to his death, he was considered a well-to-do man, of his day. His death took place April 2, 1847, and the event caused universal sorrow. His amiable companion was born April 10, 1786, and for nearly eleven years awaited the summons to rejoin her husband,-passing peacefully away June 17, 1858.
Their union was blessed with ten children, namely: Newton, born July 17, 1805, and died February 10, 1827; James, born March 27, 1807, and died April 3, 1836; Charles M., born January 4, 1811, and died March 27, 1877; Joseph, born May 21, 1813, and died November 11, 1871; Thomas, born October 4, 1815, and died November 2, 1886; Samuel B., father of the subject hereof; Maria C., born November 22, 1821, and died May 10, 1891 ; Billings O. P., born August 8, 1823, and died September 22, 1846; Leander, born September 30, 1825 ; Caroline, born January 12, 1828,-the only one of this numerous family known to be living. The honored father of these children was a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal church, while his wife belonged to the good, old Quaker sect.
Samuel B. French, William Caldwell's father, was born December 1, 1818, and when a young man, began river life as assistant on a steamboat plying on the Ohio River, between Pittsburg and New Orleans. This life just suited his fancy, and he rapidly rose in the line to be captain, and still later became part owner of several steamboats, among them the "Joseph Pierce," the "Tropic," and the "Shenango." Retiring from river life he engaged in the manufacture of brick under the firm name of French & Quay. He established brick yards and kilns, and was conducting that business at the time of his death. This plant was conveniently located on the south side of the Ohio River, directly opposite Beaver. Shortly after his marriage Mr. French built a large, substantial and handsome brick residence on the northwest corner of Elk and Second streets, where he lived during the rest of his life. This residence is, at the present time, the home of Hon. M. S. Quay.
Samuel B. French was a public-spirited man and a Democrat of much influence and great prominence. His active river life prevented his accepting political offices.
He was a member of the Masonic fraternity, and was a charter member of St. Joseph Lodge, No. 457, F. & A. M., of Beaver, and on February 15, 1854, became a member of Commandery, No. 1, of the Knights Templar of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. He passed to his final rest January 28, 1874, and was survived by his widow for twenty years. Mrs. French was, before marriage, Emily Robinson; she was a daughter of Hugh Robinson, a native of Beaver county, and was reared in New Brighton, Pennsylvania. She was a member of the First Presbyterian church of Beaver. Her death occurred on September 7, 1894, at the age of seventy years. She was the mother of thirteen children, ten of whom are still living, and all of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, with the exception of one. Their names are : Martha, Nancy, Thomas, Samuel, Franklin, Eliza, Mary, Emily, Sarah, Katherine, Jeannette, Alice, and William C., the subject of this biographical record.
HARRY T. BARKER has made surveying and civil engineering his profession, and has occupied the position of city engineer of New Brighton and Beaver Falls since 1879. He is a director of the Riverview Land Company, which had its origin in 1892. The subject of this sketch is a worthy representative of one of the old and prominent families of Delaware, his ancestors having settled in that state many years prior to the War of Independence. Mr. Barker was born in New Brighton, Pa., August 28, 1849, and is a son of Thomas A. and Eliza (Oakley) Barker.
On the paternal side, Samuel Barker was the original immigrant of the family in this country,-he having located in Delaware as early as 1685 ; he received a grant of two hundred acres from the Penns. The next in line was Joseph Barker, who was the great-great-grandfather of the subject hereof, and his birth occurred on his father's farm in Delaware; he was a strong Episcopalian, as were his parents. Samuel was the great-grandfather of Harry T. Barker, and he married Rachael Ball, by whom he reared a family of children. Mr. Barker's grandfather was Abner, a native of Delaware, who early in life located in Pittsburg, Pa.; prior to 1790, he served in the fire department of that city. Being a man of means he retired at an early age, and spent his closing years in that city, in comfort and happiness.
On the maternal side, the family is of English extraction, and the Oakleys, from whom Mr. Barker's mother sprang, have been residents of America since a very early period. The grandfather was Milton Oakley, a native of Baltimore, Md., but later a resident of Butler county, Pa., where he was actively engaged in business. He died in the village of Harmony, in middle age.
Thomas A. Barker was born in Pittsburg, Pa., in 1823, but was reared to manhood in Beaver county, he having left home to live with his older brother, Dr. Butler Barker, a practicing physician of Beaver; after receiving a common school education in Beaver, he located in New Brighton, where he embarked in mercantile pursuits,-continuing thus until his death, in February, 1859. He married Eliza Oakley, who was born in 1821 and died in 1863 ; they were the parents, of the following children : George O., who died aged five years; Frank A., who died in 1879, from an accidental gunshot wound; Harry T.; and Ellen O., the wife of Harry Brown, of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Harry T. Barker obtained his primary education in the public schools of New Brighton, which was supplemented by a course in the military academy at West Chester, Pa., and upon his graduation therefrom, by a course in the Cooper Institute in New York City; he then took an engineering course under the professorship of George L. Fox, then a celebrated teacher in mechanics and mathematics. On graduating, he accepted a position in the ship building establishment of the Roaches, of New York City. Returning to New Brighton, in 1873, he and his brother, Frank A., began a banking business under the name of Barker Brothers, establishing a private bank in Beaver Falls; this business was continued until 1878, when the subject of this record took up his profession as a surveyor and civil engineer; in the following year he was elected city engineer of both Beaver Falls and New Brighton, and has served in that capacity until the present time. Mr. Barker was one of the organizers of the Riverview Land Company, in 1892, and he is one of its directors; he has surveyed that section into town lots, and also surveyed the route of the Riverview Railroad, which is about two miles long, and of which company he is one of the directors. Mr. Barker is esteemed by his many friends, and possesses all the characteristics of a loyal citizen and a good neighbor.
The subject of this narrative is a Republican, and has served three years as county surveyor, having been elected to that office in 1882. Socially, he is a member of the A. O. U., W. ; and of the K. of P.,-both of New Brighton. Religiously, he and his family are prominent members of the Episcopal church, of which the subject hereof is a vestryman. On May 29, 1873, Mr. Barker and Miss Annie V. McClean were united in the bonds ofwedlock, and to them have been born two children, George M., and Adele, both of whom are deceased.
David Miller, the grandfather of William M., was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, and in 1775 came to this country, first locating near Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. He afterwards removed to Hancock county, West Virginia, buying a tract of land east of the village of Fairview, where he lived until the Indian outbreak in that locality. He was then driven away and moved to Chartiers, Pa., remaining until peace was finally restored. Upon returning to his former home, he followed farming until his death, in 1848, having almost reached the remarkable age of one hundred years. He married Abigail Martin, and among their offspring was one John P., the father of the subject hereof.
John P. Miller was born on the old homestead, in Hancock county, West Virginia, in 1832, and there he has always resided. He has a fine farm under a high state of cultivation, and has conducted it in a very successful manner. There are gas wells upon it, and at one time he supplied the city of East Liver-pool, Ohio, with gas. He is also quite an extensive fruit raiser. In politics he is a Republican. Religiously, he is a member of the Presbyterian church. He formed a matrimonial alliance with Margaret A. Campbell, and they had the following issue: Joseph, deceased; Elmer A., who now does the farming on the old homestead; Dr. William M., whose name heads this sketch ; Robert S. and Benjamin S., twins, the former a farmer in Iowa, and the latter in Hancock county, West Virginia; Margaret Ellen, the wife of Lawrence Stewart, who lives near the home farm; Mary Jane, the wife of Frank Mayhew, a farmer, of Hancock county; and Henry O., who is living at home.
Dr. William M. Miller received a common school education, and worked upon the home farm until he reached the age of fifteen years, when he learned the trade of a painter and paper hanger. After continuing thus for a period of four years, he was clerk in a store at Fairview for three years; he then taught school four years, in the meantime taking up the study of medicine. In 1887 he entered the medical department of Wooster University, now known as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Cleveland, Ohio. Being graduated in the spring of 189o, he entered upon a successful practice at Shiloh, Ohio, where he remained until 1894. Wishing a wider field in which to follow his profession, he wisely, and with good foresight, saw the many advantages offered in Beaver county, and as a result located at Hookstown, Greentownship. He rapidly acquired a good paying practice, and now has the patronage of the leading class of citizens of the district. Thus he has worked his way up in life from the lowly position of a day laborer to a prominent professional status, in which he ranks as one of the most skilled practitioners in this region. He was ever ambitious and energetic, and his advancement is the result solely of individual effort.
In 1885 Dr. Miller was joined in wedlock with Ama Moore, of Fairview, West Virginia, and three children have been born to them: Cecil E.; John M. ; and Edna. In political affiliations, he is a strong Republican. Religiously, he is a faithful member of the U. P. church.
PROF. RUFUS DARR. The public schools are the pride of every community, and from them may be determined the character and enterprise of its citizens. Citizens of an intellectual class and those ambitious for the future of their offspring, always employ the best instructors obtainable, and elevate their schools to the highest degree of efficiency. Thus the residents of Rochester, by securing the services of Prof. Darr, in 1892, took an important step in advancement, the good results of which are evident in the schools as they exist today. He is a man of intellectual attainments, and has passed through the ordeal of practical experience,-facts which place his record as principal above criticism.
Prof. Rufus Darr was born in Rostraver township, Westmoreland county, Pa., and is a son of John Darr, a progressive farmer of that locality. He was reared upon a farm and attended the public schools and Elder's Ridge academy. He then entered Lafayette College and after graduation in 1877, began his career as a teacher, which he has since followed continuously, with the exception of a brief period spent in farming upon the old homestead. Besides teaching for a time, in the public schools, he taught successively at Elder's Ridge Academy, Greersburg Academy, at Darlington, Pa., and for several years at Laird Institute at Murrysville, Pennsylvania. In 1892, he accepted the principalship of the Rochester schools, in which he has since continued to the satisfaction of the board and the general public. He is a man of enterprise, and has introduced new and approved methods of teaching.
It is an interesting matter to trace the development of the schools of Rochester from their beginning to their high standard under the present public school system.
The public school system of Pennsylvania dates back to the year 1834. Prior to that time schools were maintained only by private subscriptions, and very frequently were held in private houses. Singularly enough, the town of Rochester got its first actual start in that year. Early records show that two plats were made and recorded in 1834,-one by Joseph Hemphill and the other by Joseph Hinds. In this year the canal between Rochester and New Castle was completed,and its effect was to build up the new town, which was then called "Fairport." Three years later an early directory gives a population of two hundred inhabitants. The only school house was a log structure, located on what is now the corner of Jefferson and Connecticut streets. There is no record as to when it was built or by whom. It was occupied as a school building for several years and was replaced by a frame school building now occupied by the Evangelical Association church as a parsonage. Rochester borough was organized March 2o, 1849, and its first school board was named at a meeting held in this building, May 22, 1849. The board was composed of William Martin, president; Dr. Thomas J. Chandler, secretary; John Berryhill, treasurer; Robert Smith, George C. Speyerer and John McClung. The first teachers were elected May 31, 1849. They were Philip Grim, principal, and a Miss Rice, assistant. The salary of the principal was $28, and that of the assistant $14 per month. The first term of school began in June of that year. This building was used until 1862, when it was sold, the school board having purchased three lots on Jefferson street, on which a brick building was erected, which was completed in the latter year. It was a four-room structure, but was enlarged in 1868, and again during the "seventies." The steady growth of the town made a second building necessary and it was erected in 1884-1885, on Adams street. In 1891, it was again found necessary to increase the size of the school accommodations, and a fourroom addition to the Adams street building was begun, and completed in the following year. The continued increase in population, and with it, a corresponding increase in the number of children of school age, has created a demand for a third building, and during the summer of 1899 the school board purchased two lots on Pinney street, on which a good brick building of modern design will shortly be erected. The town will then be provided with three substantial, well equipped brick buildings, located conveniently for the pupils in the various parts of the borough. The number of pupils enrolled is over nine hundred.
The High School department of the Rochester schools was established ii 1890, under the principalship of W. F. Bliss. It was be-gun with a two-years' course of study, which was soon made a three-years' course, as it is at present. The attendance in the High School has constantly increased, until there is an enrolment of over sixty pupils, nearly equally divided between the three classes.
The teachers under the supervision of Prof. Darr are: S. C. Humes and Mary Stone (in the High School) ; and Mrs. E. C. McCoy, assistant principal; Mary Ewing, Kathryn Crane; Wilda Brown; Ada Spratly; Katie Gebhard; Kate Nannah ; Kate Torrence ; Martha McFetridge; Louise Taylor; Nannie Barto ; Annie McCutcheon; Annie Lockhart ; Fay Shanor; and Lillie Reno.
Prof. Darr married Louisa Kelley, a daughter of John Kelley, of St. Louis, and they have three children, namely : Sarah A.; John ; and
Catharine D. Religiously, the Professor is a member and elder of the Presbyterian church. Socially, he belongs to the Masonic order.
ROBERT M. BRYAN, the leading general merchant in the southwestern portion of Beaver county, is located at Hookstown, Green township, where he is one of the foremost business men. He is a son of James and Isabella (Miller) Bryan, and was born in Hookstown, Pa., November 14, 1850.
John Bryan, the grandfather of Robert M., was a farmer of Independence township, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. His son James, the father of the subject hereof, was born in that township, in 18o6, and at an early age learned the trade of a hatter. In those days there were no shops, and he followed his trade at his own home in Hooks-town most of his life, and in addition to that farmed quite extensively on land which he leased. He passed to his eternal reward at the age of eighty-two years. He was first joined in marriage with Margaret Veasy, and they had three children, as follows: Sarah, deceased; Mary, deceased; and Joseph, who is now a pilot on the lower Mississippi River. He formed a second alliance with Isabella Miller, a daughter of Col. Robert Miller, a soldier of the War of 1812, and a resident of Beaver county, and this union was blessed with seven children: Margaret, deceased; John, deceased, who served as adjutant in the 140th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., in the Civil War, and later practiced medicine in Kentucky and Missouri, dying in the latter state in 1874; Sarah (Smith), who lives in Arkansas City; Robert, the subject of this record; Mary, deceased; Jennie (Mercer), whose husband was formerly in partnership with Robert M. Bryan, and lives in New Wilmington, Pa.; Belle (Lawrence), who removed from Beaver county to Red Oak, Iowa, with her husband,-a physician of that place. Mrs. Bryan died in 1892, at the age of seventy-three years. Mr. Bryan was a Democrat in politics, and was a borough officeholder.
Robert M. Bryan obtained his education in the public schools of Hookstown, attending them until he was thirteen years old, after which he was a clerk for three years in a store at Shippingport, Beaver county,-thus early acquiring a knowledge of the business which he now follows. He then learned the trade of a carpenter, which he followed during the summer months for the succeeding fifteen years. In 187o, he went west to Missouri, and worked on a farm at his trade two years, but again returned to Beaver county and taught school for the next fifteen years. Subsequently he engaged as a clerk for A. G. Wilson, and served in that capacity for five years. Then, in company with Mr. Mercer, he bought a store at Hookstown, which they very successfully conducted for five years. In August, 1898, this partnership was dissolved, and Mr. Bryan became sole proprietor. He is a man of enterprise and has endeavored to please his patrons by stocking his store witha comprehensive line of goods, including all articles in general use and for which there is a demand. He has been decidedly successful and his customers come from all over the surrounding country. Mr. Bryan owns considerable property, including a tract of forty-five acres of good farm land one mile from town, a house and lot in town, and six acres in the outskirts.
In 1874, he was married to Isabella Swaney, a daughter of Thomas and Isabella Swaney, both of whom are now dead. This marriage resulted in the birth of the following offspring : Mary, born in 1874, who lives at home; John, born in 1876; Thomas, born in 1878; Wallace, born in 188o; Joseph, born in 1883; Alfretta, born in 1886; Robert R., born in 1889; and Edward, born in 1896. Politically, Mr. Bryan is a Democrat, and served as postmaster during the administration of President Cleveland, and as justice of the peace for two terms. He was census taker of Independence township in 1882, and very satisfactorily performed his duty. He is also a member of the Beaver County Centennial Committee. Religiously, he is a faithful member of the United Presbyterian church.
JAMES W. McKENZIE, of the firm of McKenzie Bros., leading contractors and builders in stone and brick, of Beaver, Beaver county, Pa., is a gentleman who has won the confidence and esteem of
the citizens of that thriving borough. He is of Scotch ancestry, and was born near Beaver, in Brighton township, October 1, 1850, being a son of Jonathan, and grandson of Joseph McKenzie.
Joseph McKenzie was born in Scotland, and came to America, settling with several other Scotchmen, in Vanport, which is just outside the corporate limits of Beaver. He bought a tract of land, which was almost entirely covered with timber, and, after clearing it, built a log house, and there reared his family. The farm is now owned by James Mitchell. Joseph McKenzie was a soldier of the War of 1812. He died at the age of eighty, and his wife also died about the same time. They were buried in the old cemetery, in Beaver. Their children were as follows: Maria, who married Alex Donald; Prestly; Hamilton; Sally, who married Robert McCabe; Jonathan; Hamilton; Joseph ; Kirsley; Albert; Ellen, who married Ralph Russell; Emily, who married Oscar Conrod; and David. Emily is the only one now living, although the others grew to maturity,-the youngest of the family living until more than seventy-five years old.
Jonathan McKenzie, the father of James W., was born on the farm, and at the age of sixteen years was bound out to his brother-in-law, Alex Donald, to learn the tanning trade; the latter's tannery being the one subsequently owned by General U. S. Grant's father, in the Western Reserve, Ohio. After attaining manhood, Jonathan left this trade and went back to Vanport, where he manufactured lime, pottery and brick, and later
began contracting for stone and brick buildings. Many of the buildings which he built are standing in Beaver at the present time, and show that the work was, for that time, of a high order. His sons, John and James, learned the trade with him, and he subsequently took them in as partners, the firm name being J. McKenzie & Sons. Mr. McKenzie met with a serious accident,-falling and breaking his hip,-which resulted in his death soon afterward, at the age of eighty-five. He married Ann McCurdy, a daughter of Andrew McCurdy, and she died at the age of seventy-eight. They were both faithful members of the M. E. church, and are buried in the cemetery at Beaver, Pennsylvania. Their children were: William, who died at the age of sixty-three years; Joseph, of Canton, Ohio; John, of Beaver; Mary, the wife of J. M. Graham; James W.; and George, of Beaver.
James W. McKenzie, whose name heads this sketch, assisted his father and became his partner, and after his father's death, he and his brother John conducted the business under the firm name of McKenzie Bros. Lately, Andrew G. McKenzie, a son of John, has also become one of the partners, and this firm is known to be the largest in their line, in Beaver. They have erected many modern and valuable houses, to the entire satisfaction of the owners. Among these houses are those of Rev. Dr. W. G. Taylor; Thomas F. Galey; John Snyder; J. B. Kirtz; J. I. Martin; J. Childs; Mrs. J. S. Rutan; D. A. Nelson ; A. S. Moore; D. W. Miller; W. S. Moore; and others. The subject of this sketch built himself a fine residence on Raccoon street, which has every modern convenience. He married Mary French, a daughter of Captain Samuel B. French, of Beaver, and they have reared two children, the third child, Elsie, dying at the age of eighteen months. The others are Robert C., a graduate of Beaver College, and now a student in Effingham College, Effingham, Ill.; and Ralph, a student in the public school. Mr. McKenzie is a strong Republican, and has served six years as president of the board of education. The family are members of the M. E. church. The subject of these lines has many friends in the county, and is highly spoken of by all.
JONATHAN TAYLOR, a representative of the thrifty agricultural class of citizens of Beaver county, resides upon his fine farm in Chippewa township, where his family has lived for many years. He is a son of Jonathan and Elizabeth Taylor, and was born May 30, 1855.
His grandfather was Joseph Taylor, who was born in Oldham, England, where he followed farming, holding several life leases, and owning considerable property. He came to this country and purchased the farm which forms a portion of that owned by the subject of this record. This he improved greatly and built new barns on it, one of them being 40x60 feet, in dimensions. He raised stock and shipped t0 Fallston and Brighton, attaining good results in that line. He and his wife, Jane, reared six children, as follows: Jonathan, Andrew, John, Sarah, Mary, and Ann.
Jonathan Taylor was born in Oldham, England, and after attending the public schools there for some years, worked in a coal mine until he came to America with his wife. He settled near Pittsburg and took up coal mining, which he followed for a period of two years. His father then came to this country with the rest of the Taylor family, purchasing the old Britain farm of one hundred and fifty acres in Chippewa township, and he assisted him in cultivating the farm. Upon his father's death, he received a one-third interest in the property, and later bought the entire place. He established an enviable reputation throughout the country as a stock raiser and prize winner; his animals, while being very heavy, also presented a fine appearance. This was attained mainly by the excellent care which they received, and, not as many thought who unsuccessfully tried it, by overfeeding. Many adopted his system, but never quite reached the same standard. One of his chief and most commendable characteristics was his systematic manner of doing everything, and his never-failing promptness, it being a proud boast of his that no man was ever disappointed in an engagement made with him. He and his wife, Elizabeth, were the parents of seven children: Susanna (Rhodes), a native of England; Mary (Hooker); Joseph; J. H.; Jane (Smith) ; Elizabeth (Haley) ; and Jonathan, the subject of this biographical record. Politically, Mr. Taylor was a Republican and served as road commissioner of the township. Religiously, he was a devout Episcopalian. He died in 1886, at the age of seventy-four years.
Jonathan Taylor was born on the old homestead in Chippewa township, Beaver county, Pa., and obtained an elementary education in the district schools, after which he took up farming with his father. Upon the death of the latter, Jonathan inherited the farm with his brothers and sisters, but after the property had been leased for a year, he purchased it and began to improve the place. Like his father, he is a thrifty, energetic, and systematic man, and everything to which he sets his hand is done in the best fashion possible. He erected a new wagon house, and greatly enriched the soil and improved it in other ways; he has always carried on general farming and fruit raising, having a splendid or-chard of goodly size. He is a man who is everywhere held in the highest esteem, and is one of the number who have done much to elevate the standard of the farming element of Pennsylvania.
The subject of this sketch was united in hymeneal bonds with Mary Reed, who was born and educated in Chippewa township, and they are the happy parents of four children, namely : Bertha M. (McGaffic) ; Carl Reed, who was born in 1883; Nellie B., born in 1888;. and Lester D., born in 1895. In political views, he was formerly a Republican, but is now a stanch supporter of the People's party.
Mrs. Taylor is included in the membership of the United Presbyterian church.
J. RANKIN MARTIN, who efficiently served as district attorney from 1884 to 1890, is one of the leading practitioners of the legal profession in Beaver Falls, where he ranks as one of the borough's prominent citizens. He was born in Darlington township, Beaver county, January 14, 1852, and is a son of James P. and Mary C. Imbrie Martin, being of Scotch-Irish descent.
He was reared on the homestead farm in Darlington township; after receiving a preliminary training in the schools of his native township, he pursued advanced studies at Darlington Academy and then in Westminster College. He remained on the farm until 1876, when he was appointed deputy sheriff under his father, serving in that capacity for three years.
In 1879, he entered upon the study of law with Agnew & Buchanan, and after a careful preparation was admitted to practice, February 6, 1882. His success was immediate and in 1883 he was elected to the office of district attorney, and served with such satisfaction that he was re-elected upon the expiration of his term. He has been a constant student, increasing his vast store of knowledge in the science of law by study and practical experience, and today he ranks among the fore-most of the county's attorneys.
In 188o, Mr. Martin was married to Anna Eakin, daughter of John R. Eakin, whose biography appears elsewhere in this work. They are the proud parents of three interesting children: Helen, Margaret and Mary. In religious attachments and fellowship, they are devout members of the United Presbyterian church. Politically, our subject is a stanch Republican.
CHARLES W. WRIGHT, superintendent of the Aliquippa Steel Works, is the youngest man in the country occupying a position of that kind in a plant of such magnitude, and has established a reputation throughout Western Pennsylvania in that capacity.
The Aliquippa Steel Company was organized in 1892, and has been the, means of trans-forming what was a small country way-station into one of the most important manufacturing towns in Beaver county. Although the town is but seven years old, it is now a borough ; it possesses excellent natural advantages, located, as it is, in the great Beaver Valley. The officers of the company are as follows : Joseph G. Vilsack, president; J. C. Russell, vice president; C. A. Fagan, secretary and treasurer; Alexander Thomas, general manager; and Charles W. Wright, superintendent. The general offices are located at No. 512-513 Times Building, Pittsburg, and the plant covers fifteen acres of land at Aliquippa. They manufacture open hearth and crucible steel, taking the pig iron and manufacturing the finished product; they make tool steel for all purposes,-principally for circular saws, disks and cross cut saws (surpassing in this every other firm in the country), agricultural blades, and for round and hexagonal tools. The plant consists of three buildingsand a boiler house, which is constructed of corrugated steel, with seven immense boilers of the latest and most serviceable pattern, which feed the 500 horse-power engine. The dimensions of the three buildings are respectively as follows: 210 feet x 40, 230 x 40; and 16o x 40. The works employ three hundred and fifty men, and run all of the time, a feature which is of material benefit to the borough. They have in use the six-ton steam hammer, a machine of stupendous power, which has revolutionized the manufacture of steel. They also operate numerous heavy shearing machines, punches, and several furnaces, using gas fuel from a well on the grounds. The subject of this biography was not yet thirty years of age when he was called to assume the responsibilities of superintendent of these works, and having had a thorough training, he understands the business in all of its phases. He has displayed wonderful ability in the manner of handling the large force of men under his direction,-not only getting their best efforts, but gaining their good will, as well. He possesses the confidence of his employers to a marked degree, and is held in the highest esteem by his employees. A young man of enterprise, he has worked his way from the lowest step in the business to his present enviable position, and his future life presents a bright prospect.
Charles W. Wright was born in Pittsburg, Pa., December 23, 1868, and was intellectually trained in the public schools of Pittsburg, graduating from the high school with the class of 1885. He at once went to work in the mill of Park Bros., beginning at the bottom, and continued in their employ for eight years, as general mill clerk. He acquired a thorough knowledge of the business that made his services valuable, and then resigned to accept the position of assistant superintendent of the Aliquippa Steel Company. His efforts in that capacity met with such favor that, four years after, he was promoted to the general superintendency, which he now holds. He is gifted with the eye of an expert in judging the quality of steel,-deciding at a glance with as much accuracy as a chemical test would determine it,-thus saving time and expense. Mr. Wright resides in East End, Pittsburg, Pa., where he has many friends.
He was united in marriage with Catherine Clark, a daughter of Dr. H. H. Clark, the well-known physician, and they have two children : Bessie, born in 1893; and Catherine, born in 1897. Politically, he is a Republican, but is too busy to participate actively in partisan affairs. He is a member of the order of the Royal Arcanum.
DANIEL R. CORBUS, postmaster and tax-collector of New Brighton, Pa., ranks among the most prominent and popular citizens of Beaver county. He was born in Beaver, September 29, 1839, and attended public schools until he attained the age of twelve years, when he was forced to work out as chore-boy on a farm, for several years. He afterwards entered the Lownsend
Wire Mills and learned wire-drawing, which he followed for forty-two years, with the exception of the time spent in actual service during the Civil War. In 187o, Mr. Corbus was elected coroner of Beaver county, and held that office until 1876. He was also elected tax-collector in 1894, and has been re-elected every year since; he is now serving his sixth year in that capacity. October 1, 1898, Mr. Corbus was appointed postmaster of New Brighton,-succeeding William Wallace. The office ranks in the second class, and its earliest record is the appointment of B. B. Chamberlain, as postmaster, March 12, 1849. He was succeeded by O. Waters, December 23, 1852; he was succeeded by C. H. Higby, July 7, 1853; he was succeeded by John Glass, April 16, 1857; he was succeeded by Isaac Covert, July 12, 1859; he was succeeded by John C. Boyle, March 13, 1861; he was succeeded by Mrs. E. B. Cuthbertson, January 24, 1869; she was succeeded by Walter S. Branden, March 1, 1886; he was succeeded in March, 1892, by A. J. Bingham, who was in turn succeeded by William Wallace.
Daniel R. Corbus was united in marriage with Cornelia Fairman, a daughter of Captain William Fairman, of Pittsburg. They have one son and one daughter, namely: William, and Thankful. William is a brakeman on the railroad, and makes his home in Perry, Iowa. He married Margaret Brown, and new has two children, Chester and Lucian. Thankful is her father's able assistant in the postoffice. The subject of this sketch is a son of John S. and Eliza (Reeves) Corbus, and a
grandson of John and Betsey (Skillinger) Corbus. The original name of the family was Corbustria, and they descended from the early French Huguenots. John Corbus spent his early life in the state of Maryland, south of Baltimore. Later in life, he went west to Ohio, with Messrs. McIntyre and Zane, and assisted those gentlemen to survey and lay out the town of Zanesville, Ohio,-where he finally settled. He conducted a hotel there for many years, and the building which he occupied is still standing. Tradition says his hotel was famous for its clean floors and its good meals. In those days beds were almost unknown in country inns or hotels,-it being customary for each traveler to carry his own blanket and, wrapped therein, to sleep on the floor near the old fireplace. Mr. Corbus died when about the age of forty-two years. His wife was Betsey Skillinger, of George's Run, near Cumberland, Maryland. She bore him the following children: John S., Rosa, Tina, and Eliza. Some time after the death of Mr. Corbus, the widow contracted a second marriage. She became the wife of Mr. World, by whom she had several children.
John S. Corbus was born at Zanesville, Muskingum county, Ohio, and, while still a young man, went to Fallston, Beaver county, Pennsylvania. In 1824, he began learning the art of making scythes, under the instructions of a Mr. Blanchard. They were then made by hand, but several years afterwards machinery took the place of the hand-work, and then Mr. Corbus withdrew from the business, and learned the trade of wire-drawingin the factory of Robert Lownsend, at Fallston. He followed the latter business during all of his active days. In 1836, or 1837, he purchased a lot on what is now the corner of Fourth avenue and Thirteenth street, and upon this site he built a substantial brick dwelling in which he spent the closing years of his life,-dying at the advanced age of eighty-five years. His remains lie buried in the Grove cemetery. His beloved wife, who was Eliza Reeves before her marriage, also attained a good old age, passing to the life beyond tile grave, at the age of eighty-three years, and being buried by the side of her husband. Seven children were born to them; Mary J., wife of Hugh Irwin; John, of Beaver Falls; Thankful, wife of Dr. Louis Jack; Elizabeth, who came to her death by drowning in childhood; Margaret, wife of Richard Irwin; Daniel R., the subject of this sketch; and Jesse M., who resides at New Brighton.
April 17, 1861, Daniel R. Corbus enlisted in the New Brighton Rifle Company for a short time, but later re-enlisted as a private in the Ninth Pa. (Pittsburg) Rifles, and served in the battle of Dranesville, the Seven Days' Battle before Richmond, and the second Battle of Bull Run. Then sickness compelled him to enter the hospital; after recovering his usual health, he participated in the battles of Fredericksburg and Gettysburg, and was honorably discharged, May 4, 1864. He re-enlisted in the 17th Reg., Pa. Vol. Cavalry, and served until the successful termination of the war. Mr. Corbus is a member of the Union Veteran Legion, No. 1. He is a member and past grand, of I. O. O. F. lodge, and is past royal patriarch of the encampment, having also represented that body in the grand lodge of the state; he is also a member, and past commander, of the Knights of Pythias. He has taken a fitting and active interest in his borough, serving in the council for several years, and having charge of the fire department. In 1894, he was elected tax collector for a term of three years.
The subject of this memoir inherited a part of his father's lot on Fourth avenue, and erected a handsome brick residence upon it, which he now occupies. His political affiliations are with the Republican party, and he is universally esteemed by all who have the pleasure to know him. In business life Mr. Corbus is worthy and straightforward; in social circles, he is a true and firm friend; he has fulfilled the duties of his office with credit and honor, having fine natural abilities adapting him to even a higher and more difficult position.
WILLIAM H. FORBES is superintendent of the Keystone Axle Company, which is located at Morado, Beaver county, and the offices of this large plant are at No. 200 Telephone Building,
Pittsburg, Pa. The method used in the making of axles by this company is called the rolling process, and it is the only company in the world that uses that method, all others using
the hammer process. This process has attracted much attention throughout the world
and the subject of this sketch is to give an exhibition of the process to an audience of rail-road and steel experts from Paris. Mr. Forbes was born at Warren, Pa., June 18, 1857, and is a son of William and Martha (Shaw) Forbes, both residents of Warren county, Pennsylvania.
He attended the public schools of Warren and then learned the trade of a carpenter, and later the millwright trade. He completed his mechanical trade at the Richmond Locomotive Works, at Richmond, Va., after which time he spent several months working in the round house of the Nickel Plate Railroad at Bellevue, Ohio. His next position was at Chicago, Ill., where he became foreman of the U. S. Rolling Stock Company; when that plant failed in 1890, he found employment in the large greenhouse of G. W. Miller, the largest florist of Chicago. In the spring of 1891 he was employed by the Standard Oil Company as fuel expert, being engaged in teaching the people how to burn fuel oil. January 1, 1892, Mr. Forbes became master mechanic of the Chambers & McKee Glass Works, at Jeannette, Westmoreland county, Pa., remaining with that company three years and three months. He then went into business on his own account as mechanical adviser at No. 210 Bissell block, Pittsburg. After two years of this line of business, sickness compelled him to make a change, and after a year of recuperation, on February 22, 1897, he accepted a position as master mechanic of the company with which he is now connected. July 1o, 1897, he again resumed his position with the Standard Oil Company as fuel expert, being assigned to the eastern states, and making a specialty of glass works. He returned to the Keystone Axle Works January 12, 1898, becoming superintendent of the works. The plant is 80 by 200 feet, and the company make railroad car-axles for the Pennsylvania Railroad and for many other railroads throughout the country. Although the rolling process is thought by many to be impossible, it has so far been pronounced by experts to be a decided success. Mr. Forbes is the third superintendent of this large plant, and is the only one who has made it successful.
Mr. Forbes was wedded to Miss Eva Randall, of Jamestown, N. Y., and six children have been born to them: Maude, Thomas, Francis, Alma, Edward, and Edna. The subject of this sketch is a member of the Latter Day Saints, of which sect he is an ardent supporter, and whose headquarters are at Lamoni, Iowa.
CHARLES A. TREIBER, the leading plumber and contractor of Beaver Falls, Beaver county, Pa., and an active member of the firm of Treiber & Co., has for many years been one of the most prominent men of the town, and is looked upon by all as a man of great worth and sterling
business principles. In all business dealings he is honest and upright, as the large number
of contracts which he receives goes to prove. He was born in Beaver Falls, in 1861; is a
son of John Treiber, and grandson of Jacob Treiber.
Jacob Treiber was a native of Germany, and during all his active business life held an important position under the German government as inspector of forests, having a large territory under his supervision. John Treiber, the father of Charles A., was born in Germany in 183o, received his schooling in his native city, and graduated from one of the famous universities of the country. He came to America and followed the trade of paper bleaching, which he had learned in his native country. After working at this for many years in Latrobe, Pa., he was induced by the firm of Frazier & Metzger, to move to Beaver Falls, which he did in 1886. He was in the employ of this firm for twenty-five years. In 1852 he was united in marriage with Matilda Day, who was born in Beaver Falls in 1830, and received her schooling in that town. They reared four children, as follows: Charles A., the subject of this sketch; James, baggagemaster on the Fort Wayne R. R.; Catherine, now Mrs. Elliot, living in Pittsburg; and Jeannie, now Mrs. Couch, of Kent, Ohio. In politics Mr. Treiber was a Democrat. He belonged to the Lutheran church. Fraternally, he was identified with the I. O. O. F. and K. of P. His death occurred in 1889.
Charles A. Treiber received his schooling in Beaver Falls, and learned the trade of plumbing in the shops of Chandley Bros., and be-came an expert workman ; the finest work in the shop was always given to him. He remained in the employ of this firm for twentyfive years, and in 1892 started in business for himself, under the firm name of C. A. Treiber & Co. His first store was located at 1404 Seventh avenue, and he then moved to temporary quarters on Fourteenth street. The store is now located on Seventh avenue, in handsome new quarters recently purchased by the firm. There is a fine display-room, sales-room, stock-room and work-shop. Some of the best and largest contracts in the county have been awarded to the firm, among them may be mentioned the buildings of John Elliot; Dr. Moon; F. H. Laird; J. Kurtz; Judge Wickham; the Doncaster house; McColl Tube Co.; Emerson, Smith & Co.; Glass Company; Mayer Pottery Co.; Enamel Sign Co.; H. M. Myers Co. The firm has also done a great deal of work for the P. & L. E. R. R. besides having numerous less important contracts. They do plumbing, gas, steam and hot water pipe fitting, and also do a large business in bath tubs. They are special agents in the county for the Champion beer pump, and Welsbach lights. They also deal extensively in gas stoves, and keep a large stock on hand. The firm can rightly be proud of their store, and feel that their efforts have been well rewarded.
The subject of this biography married Annie O. Connell, who was born and educated in Buffalo, New York. Mr. Treiber is an independent Democrat, is a school director; member of the R. A.; past chancellor, and grand lodge officer of the K. of P. ; and a member of the I. O. O. F. He takes an active part in all political and social affairs, and is well known throughout the county.
J.C. McKIM,* a retired contractor and builder, is spending his declining years on his fine farm in Big Beaver town-ship, Beaver county, Pa., and enjoying the fruits of a well-spent life. He was born December 17, 1834, is a son of William and Margaret (Gilkey) McKim, and a grandson of James and Hannah (Lewis) McKim.
James McKim was born in Ireland, in 1744. When twenty-two years of age, he came to America. Not many years after he sought a home in America, the Revolutionary War broke out. James joined the Washington Life Guards and served throughout that long and bloody struggle, as did his brother John, who was in the same regiment.
At the close of the war, James went to Northumberland county, where he found employment as a furnace man in the iron works. He left there eight years afterwards, and engaged in similar work in the Beaver Valley. About the year 1800 he bought a farm of wild land in Beaver county. After opening a small. area, he built a log house and barn and engaged in clearing and cultivating the rest of the tract. He improved his place as rapidly as possible, and raised general farm products. He died at the good old age of eighty-eight. Hannah Lewis, also born and reared in Ireland, became his faithful wife and they reared six of their seven children. The names of their offspring are: Alexander ; Thomas; John; William, the father of J. C.; Mary (Marshall) ; Hannah, who died aged eleven ; and Elizabeth.
William McKim was born in Northumberland county, Pa., in 1790. When only ten years old, he accompanied his parents to Beaver county, where he attended school. After this he engaged in farming. When twenty-two years old, he enlisted in the army, and fought in the War of 1812, serving through that memorable contest. On the termination of the struggle he resumed work on the farm, assisting his father on the old homestead. At a period later in life, he purchased a farm of ninety-five acres, and upon this he built a two-story, hewed-log house, which was a very fine house, for those days. He cleared his land, raised a great deal of grain, and also devoted much time and attention to sheep-raising. He was a shoemaker, also, and followed that trade to a considerable extent during the winter months.
William McKim was twice married. In November, 1816, he was wedded to Letitia Miller, by whom he had four children, namely: Robert, Hannah, Lewis and James. Robert was born in 1818, was educated in the district schools, and was a teacher for fourteen years. He was a fine linguist; later in life, he devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits. Hannah (Cochran) was born in May, 1820; Lewis, was born January 7, 1823, and James was born July 14, 1825. Some time after the death of his first wife, Mr. McKim formed a second matrimonial alliance by wedding Margaret Gilkey, who was also born and schooled in Beaver county. This union resulted in five children, whose names are: T. W., a prominent educator; J. C., subject of this biography; William A., a successfulfarmer in Kansas; Harvey M.; and Mary J. (Runyon). William McKim belonged to the Republican party. He served as school director, supervisor and collector. He was a consistent member of the United Presbyterian church, of which he was a deacon for many years. He died in 1856, and his widow survived him until 1879.
J. C. McKim was born en the old homestead, and was the recipient of a good practical education obtained in the district schools. He learned the carpenter's trade, and followed that line of work until 1861. He then enlisted in the Union army and served nine months in the Civil War. His brother, Harvey M., also enlisted, and served three years and a half. After the war, J. C. McKim formed a partnership with his brother, and worked at contracting and building, until 1868. He then bought his first farm, containing fifty-five acres. He carried on the double work of farming and contracting and was soon enabled to add forty acres to his original purchase. He then discontinued carpentering and devoted his time exclusively to farming. From time to time he has added to his land until he now owns one of the finest farms in Beaver county. It contains two hundred and fifty-nine acres and has two fine dwelling houses. One is an attractive brick residence and the other is a new frame, recently built by Mr. McKim from plans and specifications of his own design. It is a handsome structure and a model of beauty and convenience. It was built two years ago, and is now occupied by Mr. McKim as his home. The barns, sheds and out-buildings compare well with the house in the matter of modern design.
The subject hereof carries on general farming. He married Sabina Miller, a talented lady, who was born in 1840, and became Mr. McKim's wife, in 1864. She is a daughter of William and Margaret (Crawford) Miller, and a granddaughter of Robert and Catherine (Williams) Miller. Robert Miller was born at Northampton, and came to his death at the age of forty-five years,-while assisting in raising a barn. He married Catherine Williams, and they had ten children, namely: Aaron; William ; Moses; Charles, who died at the age of eight years; Lettie (McKim): Jane (Crawford) ; Ellen (Shannon) ; Mary (McChesney) ; Sidney, who remained single; and Elizabeth, who was twice married. Her first husband's name was Eckels; her second was a Mr. Parker.
William Miller was born, in 1802, in Beaver county, where he was educated. He learned the shoemaker's trade, which he followed during the winters. When his services in this capacity were required he would go to the house where shoes were needed, and remain there until he had made shoes for the entire family, if so requested. During the summer he engaged in farming. He was joined in marriage with Margaret Crawford, a daughter of Robert and Martha (McClelland) Craw-ford. They reared six children, namely: Ellen, born in 1828; Robert, born in 1831; Martha (wife of F. W. McKim), born in 1834; Aaron, born in 1837; Sabina (J. C. McKim's wife), born in 1840; and Nevin, born in 1843.
To the subject of this biography and his worthy wife one son, William M. McKim, was horn, in 1865. William M. McKim was a student at Bridgewater Academy, and is a fine scholar. He adopted, however, the peaceful, independent life of a farmer. He married Ironette Patterson and three bright children now bless their home. They are Mary R., born in 1894; John P., born in 1896; and Robert G., born in 1898.
Previous to his marriage with Miss Patterson, William M. assisted his father, who then gave him a place of his own, as a foundation for his future career. Mr. McKim has been an elder in the United Presbyterian church for several years. In politics he acknowledges his preference for the Republican party. He has served as school director, and in various township offices.
JOHN M. HUGHES,* who is highly esteemed as one of the leading citizens of Beaver Falls, Pa., is one 0f the most extensive contractors in this section of the state and has erected many industrial plants, and constructed a large number of railroads. He is a son of John A. and Elizabeth (Grubb) Hughes, and was born in Braddock, Pa., in 1860.
John A. Hughes, the father of John M., was born in Pine Creek, AIlegheny county, Pa., in 1822, and in 1840 removed to Braddock, where he followed the business of general contracting for thirty years. In 1870, he built the Grant Mills on Clarion River, which he conducted until they were destroyed by fire. He then returned to Braddock, and started a steam saw-mill and a boat building yard. He bought the steamboat Kangaroo, of which he acted as captain for several years; in 1875, he moved to Beaver Falls, and engaged in general contracting. At a subsequent period he took in his sons as partners, as he preferred the river life, which he continued to follow until his death, on March 14, 1898. He married Elizabeth Grubb, and they became the parents of eight children: Mary (Sloss) ; Elizabeth (Beams) ; Margaret (Willets) ; Martha (Casner) ; James H., who was killed at Edgar Thompson's steel works ; Olive L. (Willets) ; John M., the subject of this personal history; and E. O., who is also a contractor. Mr. Hughes was a Democrat in politics; he belonged to the Disciples' church. Fraternally, he is a member of the Odd Fellows order.
John M. Hughes obtained his primary education in the public schools of Braddock, and took an advanced course at Miss Bell's Institute, a private school. He moved with his family to Beaver Falls, and at once secured a position as office boy with the H. M. Myers Shovel Company; after a while he was transferred to the finishing and handle department. He was finally promoted to be inspector,-which speaks well for his ability and general knowledge of the business,-for that was a feature of the work which Mr. Myers had personally attended to for many years. Continuing thus for three years, he, in the meanwhile, took a course n civil engineering underthe instruction of P. Kirkerwaugh. In 1878, he resigned and was taken into the partnership with his father, the firm name becoming John A. Hughes & Sons, with offices on Ninth street, between First and Second avenues. Their first work was to build the A. F. Wolf stove foundry, but as their reputation grew, their business increased, and they completed many large contracts, -including large coal works in West Virginia; the barns and houses of the Sewickley Dairy Company; the Newcastle Steel & Wire Nail Mills; the Beaver Falls Chemical Works ; and the Bellevue school building. In 1888, John M. Hughes retired from the firm and started into business for himself, with offices at No, 1011 Seventh avenue. His first work was to erect a store room for J. T. Howarth, now the Farmers' National Bank, at the corner of Eleventh street and Seventh avenue. He then built a store adjoining this for John White, who occupied it with a five and ten cent store,-and he himself took offices over it. He then accepted a contract to build the Beaver & Ellwood Short Line R. R., and took options on a great deal of the property, selling it at handsome profits ; this was his first important contract while in business for himself. He then went to Ellwood, while the railroad was in the course of construction, and drove the first stake, and put up the first building, in what is now one of the most prosperous towns in Lawrence county. He also built the tube works and the enamel factory, and later had charge of the entire property in the village. This was a very successful undertaking and in two years he made considerable money. In 1892, he returned to Beaver Falls and became interested in the street railways and other business ventures; he built the Shenango Valley Railway, from Sharon to Sharpsville, and also the pottery works. He then formed a special partnership with George C. Wareham, for the construction of the Pittsburg & Homestead Street Railway, which was completed in December, 1894, It might be stated here that owing to a lack of business ability, and the foolish and absurd actions of a few of the directors, this immense contract was almost a total loss, and was a severe blow to Mr. Hughes. Having once ascended the ladder to the top round, he was now forced to the ground, to begin anew. Everybody had the utmost confidence in him, and respected him for the scrupulous manner in which he met every obligation. In 1895, he went to West Virginia and built the Moundsville, Benwood & Wheeling R. R., but here again ill luck seemed t0 follow him, for it was not until after three years of litigation, that he was able to procure his money. In 1897, he returned to Beaver Falls, and made the plans and specifications for the Titusville, Hydetown & Pleasantville Ry., and a short time afterward became a promoter and builder of the Riverview Street Railway. He employs a large force of men, the number ranging between seventy-five and three hundred,-over whom he exercises personal supervision.
He was united in marriage with Ida L. Littlefield, a descendant of two of America's mostdistinguished families, and a daughter of Dr. Littlefield, of North Adams, Mass. She was born in Sterling, Ill., and after completing her education in Edwards Seminary, taught in the Sterling High School. Her union with Mr. Hughes has been blessed by the birth of two children: Homer L., who was born in November, 1892; and J. Mitchell, born n June, 1895. Politically, Mr. Hughes is a stanch Republican, but has accepted but one office, that of postmaster of Ellwood. Religiously, he is a liberal supporter of the Presbyterian church.
REV. ROBERT WILSON KIDD* is
the beloved pastor of the United Presbyterian church at Beaver Falls, Pa., which charge he has had since the year 1892. He is a man of great strength of will and force of character, with brilliant mind and self-reliance, and by his courteous' manners and winning address, he has not only won the esteem and affection of the members of his congregation, but also the cordial regard of the citizens of the borough. Mr. Kidd is a son of James and Sarah (Middagh) Kidd, and was born in 1848, in Juniata county, Pennsylvania.
James Kidd was born in Ireland, and came to this country in 1819; upon arriving he located in Juniata county, Pa., where he bought a large farm and followed agricultural pursuits the rest of his life. He was a strong anti-slavery man, and always voted the Republican ticket. As a result of his union with Sarah Middagh, seven children were born.
Rev. Mr. Kidd received his preliminary education in the public schools, and after-wards pursued a course at Westminster College at New Wilmington; in the meantime having decided upon entering the ministry, he began his studies in the theological seminary at Newburg, N. Y., in 1873, and completed them in 1876,-when he was at once ordained to the ministry. A very prominent charge was assigned to him,-the Seventh Avenue United Presbyterian Church of New York City, and he continued to occupy the pulpit of that church until 1892. In that year, he accepted his present pastorate in Beaver Falls, which has ever since continued to flourish. The present edifice was erected, in 1893, at a cost of $17,000, and it is one of the most handsome churches in the county; the large liability thereby incurred has been very nearly cleared, through the untiring efforts of Rev. Mr. Kidd. When the subject of this sketch assumed his present position, the membership numbered only 224, which number has since been increased to about four hundred. The Sabbath school has about 300 members, and all the departments of the church are in a flourishing condition; these are the Young People's Church Union,-the Junior Society,-the Ladies' Aid Society, the Women's Missionary Society, and the Young Women's Missionary Society. Rev. Mr. Kidd is an earnest Christian, a messenger of peace and good will, and manifests those traits of character which gain for him the esteem and respect of all who know him.
Politically, Rev. Mr. Kidd is a strong Prohibitionist and interests himself in the cause of good government. He was united in the bonds of matrimony with Amanda Harper, a daughter of Dr. James Harper, now of Xenia Theological Seminary, in Ohio. This union was blessed by the birth of four children, namely: Robert Wallace; Chester Buchanan; Howard Carson; and Gladys Harper.
SAMUEL J. CROSS, Jr.,* a prosperous citizen and well-known business man of Rochester, Beaver county, Pa., is agent for H. T. Morris of Pittsburg, with whom he has been identified for more than eleven years. He was born February 5, 1865, at Rochester, Beaver county, Pa., and is a son of Samuel J., Sr., a grandson of Joseph, great-grandson of Samuel, and great-great-grandson of Samuel.
Samuel J. Cross, Sr., the father of the subject hereof, was born in Charlestown, Washington county, R. I., January 6, 1828, and was a pupil of Greenwich Academy at Greenwich, R. I. He was subsequently engaged in teaching, which he continued until he became bookkeeper for Roland G. Hazzard at Peacedale, R. I. In 1855, he removed with his wife to Rochester, Pa., where he opened a general store on Water street, with E. S. Gardner, under the firm name of Cross & Gardner. At a later period he built the block where Mr. Thomas conducts a clothing store, and engaged in business alone, but the firm name finally became S. J. Cross & Co. It was the leading store in the borough and was extensively patronized. Mr. Cross was one of the most energetic business men, who have ever made their homes at Rochester, and his success was due solely to his, own enterprise. He took an earnest interest in public affairs, and was connected with many business ventures as promoter and stockholder. He became agent of the Rochester Land Company for Samuel Signes, a company reported on the verge of failure. But his keen eye for business and rare foresight pointed out the way to success in that line, and the firm soon became a prosperous and influential one. He was a man of excellent standing in the community, and his advice, often sought, was freely given. He built a fine residence, known now as the Vandersliel estate. Politically, he was a stanch Republican and served in the state legislature in 1873-1874. He served as school director many years, and was instrumental in the establishment of first-class schools in the borough. Religiously, he was a Baptist and was a trustee and one of the founders of the church. His wife, whose maiden name was Frances Elizabeth Wells, is still living. They had the following issue: Julia F., the wife of B. T. Dimson; Mary E., who died in infancy; Samuel J., the subject of this personal history; Emma W., the wife of C. L. Blazier; George H., a grocer, of Rochester; and Thomas W., who also resides at Rochester. Mr. Cross died September 27, 1875.
Samuel J. Cross, Jr., attended the public schools, and after obtaining a good preliminary training took a course of study in Beaver College. He then attended the Iron City Business College, after which he entered the employ of his father, with whom he remained until January 1, 188o, when he became connected with the People's Institute, of Pitts-burg, as clerk and agent. He continued in their employ until eight years later, when he became identified with H. T. Morris of Pittsburg. He is a thorough business man, quick to grasp an opportunity for advancement, and one in whom everybody has the greatest confidence. He has always resided at Rochester and, in 1895, erected a handsome home on Vermont street, where he now lives.
Mr. Cross was joined in hymeneal bonds with Effie Jenkins, a daughter of Oscar F. Jenkins of Wellsville, Ohio, and they have had five children: Oscar Joseph, who died in infancy; Mary B., who died in infancy; Alpheus Jenkins; Samuel Joseph, who died in childhood; and Effie Letitia. Religiously, he is a member of the Baptist church, while his wife is a faithful member of the Episcopal church.
THOMAS E. CRAVEN* is a large stockholder in, and superintendent of, the American Porcelain Manufacturing Company of New Brighton, Pa., and he is the inventor of a composition, which is used in the making of pottery, that surpasses all other preparations used in the making of such wares. He was born in New Brighton June 3, 1856, and is the only child of John Craven, Jr., and grandson of John Craven, Sr.
The grandfather of Thomas E. was of English extraction and spent the greater part of his life in Beaver county, Pennsylvania. In 183o, he began the manufacture of threshing machines at Fallston, in this county, and after several years of success, his establishment was burned down, and he sustained a severe loss. He then applied himself to contracting in New Brighton, and followed that line of business until his death, which occurred at the age of seventy-eight years. His wife, Catherine, died when ninety-four years old, and they are buried in the Grove cemetery. They reared a family of children, all of whom grew to maturity; their names are: James, Sarah, Benjamin, Matilda, Isabella, John, William, Minerva, Charles, and Madison. The father of Thomas E. was a carpenter by trade; he died in the prime of life.
The subject of this memoir was reared by his grandfather, and the day before he was twelve years of age, he entered the pottery works as an apprentice; he worked in all the departments, and became a master of the trade. His inventive turn of mind led to the making of an enamel superior to pottery, and his secret process was not revealed until the organizing of the American Porcelain Manufacturing Company, of which he is superintendent, and a stockholder. This company was organized November 24, 1894; they purchased the tile factory of Scott Brothers, located on Allegheny street, and their kilns, engine house, storage and ware house, and shipping house cover three acres of ground. Thirty skilled hands are employed by thiscompany, who turn out a fine grade of porcelain ware, which consists mostly of porcelain tubs, sinks, and kitchen and pantry utensils ; they also have many orders for specialties in the porcelain line. Much of the success of this company is due to the untiring energy of the subject hereof, who is not only thoroughly acquainted with this line of business but is a man of good business ability. He is popularly known throughout the county and possesses many warm friends.
Mr. Craven erected, and lived in, the residence now owned by E. Liddell, on Fourteenth street; he now resides at No. 120, Tenth avenue. Mr. Craven first wedded Flora Hoagland, a daughter of John Hoagland, of Rochester; she died aged twenty-two years, leaving one child, Elva May. His second union was with Alice Thompson Foster, a daughter of Harry S. Foster, of Beaver Falls, and their home has been blessed by the birth of six children: Nellie Luzetta; Alice Verna; Luverne Eugene; Harry; Thomas H.; and a son who died early in life.
E.L. HUTCHINSON*, a progressive business man, and highly respected citizen, of Beaver Falls, Beaver county, Pa., is secretary of the Emerson, Smith & Co. Saw Works, an extensive plant
covering three acres of ground and situated on Fourteenth street, which ships its product to all parts of the world. He is a son of William and Sarah (Lowrey) Hutchinson, and was born in Pittsburg, Pa., August 28, 1852.
His grandfather was William Hutchinson, who was born in Ireland, and was of Scotch-Irish descent. He attended the local public schools and afterwards came to America, settling in Pittsburg, Pa., where he followed the trade of a mechanic throughout his life. Politically, he was a Whig and subsequently a Republican, but never sought office. In a religious sphere, he was a member of the Re-formed Presbyterian church. He was the father of five children, whose names are as follows: William; Samuel, a patternmaker by trade ; Robert, who followed the occupation of a machinist; Eliza J. (Armstrong), who was for many years a director of public works; and James, a machinist.
William Hutchinson, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Ireland, and after receiving a good intellectual training in the public schools, was brought to this country by his parents. It was but natural that he should take up the occupation at which his father had been so successful. He became a machinist and engine builder, and was one of the finest workmen in Pittsburg. He was a member of the firm of Hartup & Co., and subsequently, of the firm of Robinson, Minnis & Miller, the well known manufacturers of marine and stationary engines. In connection with his brother Robert, William Hutchinson has the distinction of having built the first steam-power fire engine ever made in this country, which was tested in Cincinnati, in 1854, and was a pronounced success. It waswhile testing this engine that he contracted a severe cold, which shortly afterwards resulted in his death, in the year 1855. He was united in marriage with Sarah Lowrey, who was born and schooled in Ireland, and they were the parents of three children: William, a mechanic by trade; E. L., the subject hereof; and Clifford, who was cashier of the Allegheny National Bank up to the time of his death. In political affiliations, he was a Whig. He was a member of the Reformed Presbyterian church. Mrs. Hutchinson survived her husband six years, dying in the year 1861.
E. L. Hutchinson was left an orphan at an early age, and attended the public schools but a short time, when he entered the employ of J. H. Ellerman, the hatter. He subsequently became a clerk in the cashier's office of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and continued there for seven years, when he removed to Beaver Falls to accept a position as bookkeeper for the Emerson, Smith & Co. Saw Works. He continued in that capacity for about six years, when he was taken into the firm, and was elected secretary. He is also vice-president,-Julius F. Kurtz being president. He has served in that position without a break since his first incumbency, and has become one of the leading business men of the town. He possesses good business qualifications and manifests tact and enterprise in all of his transactions. The plant is located on Fourteenth street, and covers an area of three acres. It is a large stone building, and in addition, are the engine rooms and office buildings. They turn out saws, knives and all other edged tools, which are placed upon the market in all parts of the world. They employ a force of ninety men.
In 1881, Mr. Hutchinson was united in marriage with Clara Perrott, who was born in Fallston, Beaver county, and attended schoolin Beaver Falls ; they have two children : Juliet, who was born in 1885; and Lucille, born in 189o. Politically, Mr. Hutchinson is a Republican. He is a trustee of the Presbyterian church.
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Transcribed by Kate Michaelson