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HON. GEORGE ROSS.

^OOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

THIS VOLUME CONTAINS ia®©®4®l.a©^i SEit©aii

-OF-

Leading Citizens

-OF-

BUCKS COUNTY, PENNA.

" Biography is the only true history."—Emerson,

BIOGRAPHICAL PUBLISHING CO., BUFFALO, N. Y.

1899.

KB /j7^^-'7l

YVIi'Si.iVIKiU 1)3 PRE FAC K

"AVING brought to a successful termination our labors in Bucks County in compiling and

^1 editing the sketches herein contained, we desire, in presenting this Book of Biographies b r to our patrons, to make a few remarks, necessarily brief, in regard to the value and importance of local works of this nature. We agree with Ralph Waldo Emerson "that Biography is the only true History," and also are of the opinion that a collection of the biographies of the leading men of a nation would give a more interesting, as well as authentic, history of their country than any other that could be written. The value of such a production as this cannot be too highly estimated. With each succeeding year the haze of Obscurity removes more and more from our view the fast disappearing landmarks of the past. Oblivion sprinkles her dust of forget- fulness on men and their deeds, effectually concealing them from the public eye, and because of the many living objects which claim our attention, few of those who have been removed from the busy world linger long in our memory. Even the glorious achievements of the present age may not insure it from being lost in the glare of greater things to come, and so it is manifestly a duty to posterity for the men of the present time to preserve a record of their lives and a story of their progress from low and humble beginnings to great and noble deeds, in order that future generations may read the account of their successful struggles, and profit by their example. A local history affords the best means of preserving ancestral history, and it also becomes, immediately upon its publication, a ready book of reference for those who have occasion to seek biographical data of the leading and early settled families. Names, dates and events are not easily remembered by the average man, so it behooves the generations now living, who wish to live in the memory of their descendants, to write their own records, making them full and broad in scope, and minute in detail, and insure their preservation by having them put in printed form. We firmly believe that in these collated personal memoirs will be found as true and as faithful a record of Bucks Count3' as may be obtained anywhere, for the very sufiicient reason that its growth and development are identified with that of the men who have made her what she is to-day—the representative, leading men, whose personal sketches it has been a pleasure to us to write and give a place in this volume. From the time when the hand of civilized man had not yet violated iv PREFACE

the virgin soil with desecrating plough, nor with the ever-ready frontiersman's ax felled the noble,

almost limitless, forests, to the present period of activity in all branches of industry, we may

read in the histories of the county's leading men, and of their ancestors, the steady growth and

development which has been going on here for a century and a half, and bids fair to continue

for centuries to come. A hundred years from now, whatever records of the present time are. then

extant, having withstood the ravages of time and the ceaseless war of the elements, will be viewed

with an absorbing interest, equalling, if not surpassing, that which is taken to-day in the history

of the early settlements of America.

It has been our purpose in the preparation of this work to pass over no phase or portion

of it slightingly, but to give attention to the smallest points, and thus invest it with an air of

accuracy, to be obtained in no other way. The result has amply justified the care that has been taken, for it is our honest belief that no more reliable production, under the circumstance?, could have been compiled.

One feature of this work, to which we have given special prominence, and which we are sure will prove of extraordinary interest, is the collection of portraits of the representative and leading citizens, which appear throughout the volume. We have tried to represent the different spheres of industrial and professional activity as well as we might. To those who have been so uniformly obliging and have kindly interested themselves in the success of this work, volunteering informa- tion and data, which have been very helpful to us in preparing this Book of Biographies of Bucks

County, we desire to express our grateful and profound acknowledgment of their valued services.

BuFi-ALO, N. Y., February, 1899. THE PUBLISHERS. N OT E

All the biographical sketches published in this volume were submitted

to their respective subjects, or to the subscribers, from whom the facts

were primarily obtained, for their approval or correction before going- to

press ; and a reasonable time was allowed in each case for the return of the type-written copies. Most of them were returned to us within the time allotted, or before the work was printed, after being corrected or

therefore be regarded as reasonably accurate. revised ; and these may

A few, however, were not returned to us ; and, as we have no means of knowing whether they contain errors or not, we cannot vouch for their accuracy. In justice to our readers, and to render this work more valuable for reference purposes, we have indicated these uncorrected sketches by a small asterisk (*), placed immediately after the name of the subject. They will all be found on the last pages of the book.

BIOGRAPHICAL PUBLISHING CO.

Book of Biographies

bucks county, penna.

BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

BUCKS COUNTY

ON. GEORGE ROSS, deceased. No ary movement, he paid a military fine, for other family of Bucks County has which he was excommunicated, as the creed furnished our country with as of the Society was most strict against the many illustrious sons, men who have attained support of warfare in any form. In 1786 distinction as pleaders before the bar and in that body sent him to England on a mission, political circles, as has the Ross family, of and, while taking the trip across the water, which the gentleman whose name appears he sustained injuries from a fall down a above was a conspicuous member. As far hatchway which finally resulted in his death back as the family history is recorded, its at Holegate, England, in the home of lyind- members have been prominent figures in the ley Murray, the noted grammarian of that public eye. day. He married Kesiah Wilkenson, by Thomas Ross, who, as a preacher in the whom he reared a large family of children, Society of Friends, was well known in many one of whom was Thomas Ross, the great- parts of England, was a son of Thomas Ross, grandfather of our subject. a native of Scotland, and was born in County Thomas Ross was born in Solebury town- Tyrone, Ireland, in 1708. At the age of ship, Bucks County, where he lived during twenty-one years he departed from the coun- his entire life, and as the records show was try of his nativity for the Colonies, locating in a large land-owner in that section. He fol- Solebury township, Bucks County, Pa., where lowed that most honorable of callings, farm- he soon after joined the Wrightstown Friends ing, and was a very prosperous man. He

Meeting. Being a man of superior educa- was the father of two sons, namely : Thomas, tion for that day, he became a noted preacher who was an attorney-at-law and a large land- and a prime factor of that sect. Being owner of this county, resided at Newtown, heartily in sympathy with the Revolution- which was then the county seat of Bucks 12 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

County, and served as prothonotary of the cratic party. He was united in matrimonial county in 1800; and Hon. John Ross, the bonds with Mary Jenkins of Jenkintown, grandfather of our subject. Montgomery County, a woman well educated, Hon. John Ross was born at Easton, Pa., of large mind, and great force of character.

February 29, 1770, and obtained his intel- This union resulted in his leaving the So- lectual training largely in the schools of ciety of Friends, as she did not belong to

Easton, where he also read law, being ad- that body, and when it came to making a

mitted to the Bucks County Bar in 1792. choice between the one he loved and the Being an able lawyer and a man of sound church, he unhesitatingly chose the former. judgment, he rose rapidly in the ranks of his Their happy union resulted in the birth of

profession, and became judge of the Circuit several children, among whom were : J. Jen- Court January 13, 1818, continuing as such kins, who at one time consul to Sicily was ;

until April 9, 1830, the district consisting of Thomas, the father of our subject ; and Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware and Chester George, who was graduated from Princeton

Counties. He then accepted an appointment College, Nassau Hall, in 18 15, —he became to the Supreme Bench of the state, and involved in a duel fought in row boats on the served in that capacity until his death, Janu- Delaware River, and mysteriously disap-

ary 31, 1834, although an eifort was made to peared, and was never heard from after. impeach him, the charge being neglect and Hon. Thomas Ross was born in Doyles- weakening mental powers. This effort re- town. Pa., and received a good education in coiled upon the instigators, and in conduct- the common schools and at Princeton Col- ing his own defense he showed clearly the lege, from which he was graduated in 1825. calibre and vigor of his mind. He was of a Being admitted to the Bucks County Bar,

stern, unrelenting nature, independent of the February 9, 1829, he practiced in that county

opinions of others, and possessed of many ec- throughout his entire life. He was a fine centricities, one of his hobbies being a fond- pleader and a logical thinker, and stood high ness for spotted horses, which were rare in in the legal profession. He was a Democrat those days, and are not very common now. in politics, and was elected deputy attorney- His lumbering coach, in which he rode from general, an office now known as district place to place, was drawn by a team of at- attorney, during which time he was prose- tractive spotted horses, which were greatly cuting attorney in the trial of Mina, a admired and known far and wide. Charac- Spaniard, and Mrs. Chapman,—a celebrated teristic of the man, prior to his death, he set trial which attracted attention throughout aside a family burial lot in the Wind Gap of the country. He was a man of great popu- the Blue Mountains, a wild and secluded spot larity, and represented Bucks and Lehigh at Rosscommon, Monroe County, where he Counties in the United States Congress dur-

now lies buried. Politically, he was an un- ing the years 1848-49-50-51. It may truly swerving supporter of what is now the Demo- be said that the district was never more ably BUCKS COUNTY 13

represented, and his speech upon the admis- appointed deputy escheater-general, in which

sion of California as a state was a masterly capacity he served with credit. In 1869 he effort, and gained for him a national reputa- became additional law judge of the Seventh tion. He was a man of noble impulses, and Judicial District, comprising the counties of was held in high esteem by his many friends Bucks and Montgomery, and two years later and acquaintances throughout this section of succeeded Judge Chapman as president judge, the state. His star was at its zenith when continuing as such until 1874, when, upon

he was called to his final rest, July 7, 1865. the division of the district. Judge Ross He was joined in wedlock with Elizabeth chose the bench of Montgomery County. He Pawling, a daughter of Levi Pawling, a dis- was re-elected to the president judgeship of tinguished lawyer of Montgomery County, that county in 1880 and 1881, and died at

and a granddaughter of Gov. Heister, by Norristown on April 13, 1883. He was a

whom he had two sons : Henry P. and George. man of strong convictions, which, when once Judge Henry P. Ross, who was brought formed, were unchangeable. He was very prominently before the public as president popular with the masses, and when a candi- judge of the Seventh Judicial District of date for office not only received the support Pennsylvania, was a man of scholarly attain- of his own party, but also the aid of his many ments. In his boyhood days he attended a friends in the Republican party. private school under the tutelage of the Hon. George Ross, the subject of this per- Messrs. Long, near Hartsville, Bucks County, sonal history, was born in Doylestown, Au-

Pa., where he was prepared to enter college gust 24, 1 84 1, and obtained his primary ; he then took a classical course at Princeton education in the private school conducted College, graduating with honors in 1857. by Messrs. Long at Hartsville, this county, He then read law under the direction of his and at the Lawrenceville School at Lawrence-

father, and after his admission to the bar in ville, N. J., under Dr. Hamill, a noted educa- December, 1859, became his partner, remain- tor of his day. In January, 1858, he entered ing as such until his father's death. He was the freshmen class of Princeton College, a brilliant lawyer and possessed of high am- which was half advanced in the year's work,

bitions, following closely in the footsteps of and by close application to his studies over- his father, after whose death he became asso- took the class, and was graduated in 1861. ciated with his brother, George. In 1862 he His brother Henry's success in his chosen was appointed district attorney, and held that profession was an incentive for our subject office until 1865; in 1864 and 1866 he was to work hard, and between the two there was the candidate on the Democratic ticket for considerable good-natured rivalry. He read Congress, but both times met with defeat. law with Henry P. Ross, and later they He was one of the leaders of the party, and formed a partnership which lasted until the in 1864 and 1868 was sent as a delegate to latter was elected judge, when our subject the national conventions. In 1865 he was became associated with Levi L. James, firm H BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES name Ross & James. They acquired a large Hospital at Norristown from 1884 until his practice, and, both being superior lawyers, death. were decidedly successful, and continued Mr. Ross formed a matrimonial alliance of Massachusetts, a daugh- until 1889, when Mr. James died, and J. Fer- with Ellen Phipps and a descendant dinand Long, Esq. , succeeded him as a mem- ter of George W. Phipps, ber of the firm. Mr. Ross enjoyed a wide from one of the founders of Harvard Univer- reputation as a lawyer and pleader, and there sity. Mrs. Ross took an active and helpful were few cases of any importance in which interest in all of his undertakings, and was he did not appear, either upon the one side frequently spoken of as the best Democrat or other. He was one of the leading Demo- in the county. They became the parents of crats of the county, and was frequently called six children, namely : Thomas ; Elizabeth upon to serve in different ofiicial capacities. Pawling; George, who is in attendance at

; Mary ; and Gertrude. In 1872 he was elected from Bucks and college ; Ellen Phipps Northampton Counties as a member of the Religiously, he and his family were faithful Constitutional Convention, serving to the members of St. Paul's Episcopal Church of

entire satisfaction of all concerned. He was Doylestown, he serving as a vestryman many chosen as a delegate to the National Demo- years prior to his decease.

cratic Conventions in the years 1876, 1884 Thomas RoSS is also a member of the and 1892, being a delegate-at-large in 1892 legal profession at Doylestown, and promises In 1884 he was the popular candidate of his to add further honors to the family name. party for Member of Congress, but was de- He was born in Doylestown, Bucks County,

feated at the election. In 1886 he was elected September 16, 1873, and received his prepar- to the Senate by the Democratic party, and atory education at Lawrenceville, after which served with such satisfaction to his constitu- he attended Princeton College, and was grad- ents that he was re-elected in 1890. He was uated with the class of 1895. He had regis-

also the Democratic nominee for United tered as a student- at-law the preceding fall,

States Senator in 1893. He was greatly in- and began study under the direction of J. Fer- terested in the advancement of the interests dinand lyong, Esq., and Hon. Harman Yerkes, of Doylestown, and was closely identified presidentjudgeoftheCourtsof Bucks County, with a number of leading enterprises. He and was admitted to the bar in December, was an original incorporator and director of 1897. Immediately thereafter he formed a the Bucks County Trust Company, and was partnership with his former preceptor, Mr. its president at the time of his death, Novem- Ivong, the firm name being Ross & Long,

ber 19, 1894, and was also a director of the and they have since continued in practice. Doylestown Publishing Company, which was We present on a preceding page a portrait organized for the purpose of maintaining a of Hon. George Ross, which we trust will

vigorous Democratic paper in the county. be viewed with pleasure by all who knew

He was also one of the trustees of the State and appreciated his worth in life. BUCKS COUNTY 15

'OHN C. SWARTI.EY, ESQ., was born School in 1885, from which institution he in Franconia township, Montgomery was graduated in 1888.

County, Pa., September 14, 1865, and From 1888 to 1890 he was principal of the is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Cassel) North Wales High School, Montgomery Swartley. County. He then became a student in the Mr. Swartley's ancestors, who were of Ger- Law Department of the University of Penn- man origin on his father's side, have lived sylvania in 1890, and graduated in 1893. He for a century and a half in one locality in read law with Henry Lear, Esq., of Doyles-

Franconia township, Montgomery County, town, having first become a student in that Pa. His ancestors on his mother's side were gentleman's office when attending the Uni- of English origin. In religious views they versity. He was admitted to the Philadel- were Mennonites and held very steadfastly to phia Bar in June, 1893, and to the Bucks

the faith. Philip Swartley, the grandfather County Bar in August, 1893. He at once of the subject of these lines, was a native of located in Doylestown. Mr. Swartley has Franconia township and lived on the same taken an active part in politics, and is a Re- farm that his father and grandfather had oc- publican. He was chairman of the Repub- cupied before him. He owned a large tract lican County Committee for the term of three

of land, and was very extensively engaged in years. In the fall of 1 897 he was elected to district attorney of Bucks County, agricultural pursuits ; he also had a flour and the office of

grist mill which he operated in connection and entered upon the duties of his office on with farming. He died upon his farm in the first Monday in January, 1898. His ad- 1880, aged eighty-four years. Jacob Swartley, ministration of that office was attended with the father of Johii C. Swartley, was born on marked success.

the homestead in 182 1, and spent his entire

life there, dying in 1867. He became the owner of his father's mill and a portion of the parental acres, and throughout his life fol- kRS. LUCY WHARTON DREXEL lowed the occupations of a farmer and miller. The subject of this biographical His wife, Elizabeth Cassel, was a native of record, who is the relict of the Drexel, a prominent Montgomery County, Pa. , and now resides in late Joseph W. banker Lansdale. of New York City and Philadelphia, and a John C. Swartley was bereaved of his father gentleman whose name will long be remem- at the age of two years and spent his early bered for his many philanthropic acts, resides

life on a farm—the home of an uncle, Abra- on the old Bickley homestead in Bensalem ham F. Delp—in New Britain township, township, Bucks County. She is a repre- Bucks County, Pa. He was educated in the sentative of the present day of a family which common schools of New Britain township, has been identified with the growth of our and entered the Millersville State Normal country from its very infancy. She is a i6 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES daughter of Thomas Lloyd and Sarah How- he subsequently became the owner of a farm. ell (Smith) Wharton, and was born in the He was interested in banking in the city, city of Philadelphia. and was connected with the Philadelphia

She is descended from Thomas Wharton, bank for forty years as confidential adviser. the first constitutional governor of Pennsyl- He was a member of the Masonic Order. He vania who was a great and personal friend of died in 1869 at the age of seventy. He George Washington. He was a son of John was united in marriage with Sarah Howell Wharton, of England, and died while in Smith, a daughter of Richard R. and Sarah office at I^ancaster, Pa., in 1778, aged forty Ann (Howell) Smith, by^ whom he had two years. His business was that of a merchant, children, namely : Fanny, born in 1843, who and he resided in Philadelphia. He married was the wife of Brigadier-General Guy V. Susanna Lloyd, a descendant of Thomas Henry, and Lucy W., the subject of this

lyloyd, the first provincial governor of Penn- sketch. Mrs. Wharton died in 1846. sylvania, receiving the appointment from Mrs. Lucy W. Drexel was born in 1841, William Penn. and obtained a good intellectual training

Kearney Wharton, the oldest son of in St. Mary's Hall, at Burlington, N. J. In Thomas, and the grandfather of our subject, 1865 she was married to Joseph W. Drexel, was also a merchant and well-known citizen who was a member of a well-known banking of Philadelphia. He was a lawyer by pro- firm of Philadelphia. fession and stood high in the social world. Joseph W. Drexel was a son of Francis M. He was a member of the Common Council Drexel, a native of Austria, who during the and was called upon to serve as president of early years of his life was an artist of ability.

that body ; he did much toward supplying He went to South America, where he painted

the city with wholesome water. He was the first and only portrait of General Simon joined in wedlock with Maria Saltar of Ta- Bolivar. It was under the patronage of that cony, Philadelphia County, Pa., on Novem- distinguished South American patriot that

ber II, 179S, and five children blessed tlieir Mr. Drexel established a bank in Philadel-

home : Thomas L,loyd John ; Elizabeth, the phia, and it was ; General Bolivar who loaned

wife of Thomas Morris ; George ; and James. the money with which to begin. This ad-

He reached the age of eighty-two years, when venture was a success from the very start, he passed into the unknown world on Janu- and was soon in a prosperous condition. ary 4, 1848. Mrs. Wharton attained the ad- Frank Drexel, a son of Francis, was also vanced age of ninety-two years before over- identified with the bank from the beginning, taken by death in 1 867. Religiously, he was and very soon after the bank was established, a member of the Society of Friends. Anthony and Joseph W. became members of Thomas Lloyd Wharton, the father of Mrs. the firm.

Drexel, was born in Philadelphia in 1799, In 1 87 1 Joseph W. Drexel went to New but was reared on a farm in Tacony, where York City and conducted a branch, house for BUCKS COUNTY 17

a period of five years, when he retired and years will show the year 1744 to the mind's devoted the last twelve years of his life to eye, when Abraham Bickley, Sr., sought the philanthropic works, his aim in life being to shores of what was then one of the colonies ameliorate the condition of mankind. He of his native country. He purchased a tract organized many plans for the benefit of the of land on the Delaware River, which was poor, and carried them into effect. Owning known as "Belle Voir," but has more re- thousands of acres of land in Maryland, incor- cently borne the name of Penn Rhyn. He porated in his estate of Klej Grange, he was of Welsh descent, but came to this coun- encouraged poor families to move there by try directly from Sussex County, Eng. After

keeping them for the first year, and only his marriage, he remodeled the old house in exacting small sums in payment for their 1793 by adding a larger front portion, and land. He solved the problem of providing later the back buildings, in which condition

the poor of New York City with coal at a it still stands, with the exception of a portion much cheaper rate. Besides Klej Grange added to the south side by our subject. He farm of the Eastern Shore, Maryland, he married a Miss Shewel of Philadelphia, by

also owned another, the Cedar Hill farm, in whom he had six children : Robert S.,

New Jersey, where poor men without work Abraham, Jr., Isaac, Elizabeth, Hannah and could go, and work, be fed, and receive Lydia, all of whom died unmarried. He good clothes. Work was also sought for built the vault after the death of his wife, and

them, and the amount of good accomplished there the family have all been buried but

is beyond calculation. Abraham, Jr. , who lies buried at Mt. Moriah Mr. Drexel was a musician of talent, and Cemetery. Desiring to keep the estate in every Thursday a quartet met at his house. the family, and also to perpetuate the family He was president of the Philharmonic So- name, the property was left to Lloyd Whar- ciety at the time of his death, and was also ton, the nearest relative with male issue, on a member of a number of other musical or- condition that his name be changed to Bick- ganizations. He was one of the organizers ley. He was subsequently known as Lloyd

and life members of the Metropolitan Art Wharton Bickley. He reared four sons, who, Museum. Mr. Drexel closed his eyes in upon his death, came into possession of the final sleep in 1888. He and his worthy wife property. Mrs. Drexel purchased it from

reared four children, namely : Katharine, the widow of Lloyd Wharton Bickley. In the wife of Dr. Charles B. Penrose of Phila- addition to the enlargement of the house she has made many grand and important im- delphia ; Lucy, the wife of Eric B. Dahlgren; Elizabeth, the wife of John V. Dahlgren of provements upon the grounds surrounding the house. The land is drained and terraced, New York City ; and Josephine Wharton. Mrs. Drexel now owns and resides on the and the beautiful lawns are decorated with original Bickley estate, known as Penn fine pieces of statuary. The stately old Rhyn. A look back through a long vista of house sits back on a rolling piece of land, ;

i8 BOOK OP BIOGRAPHIES

and commands an elegant view of the river where he conducted an inn for some years and the country surrounding. The old and then moved to Tullytown, where he

family coach, imported from England, which passed from this life at the age of seventy is an exact fac simile of the coach used by years. His wife, Maria Cheston, also at- Gen. George Washington at that time, tained the age of seventy years before suc-

was also acquired by Mrs. Drexel, and is cumbing to the inevitable. Their happy

prized very highly by her. It is more than union was blessed by the birth of four

one hundred and twenty years old, and is in children, namely : Cheston, the subject of perfect running order. this biographical record Jackson, deceased ;

Our subject is a woman of high character, Ann (Scott) ; and Emily (Morris). and has a large number of friends, number- Cheston Hutchinson obtained his educa- ing them almost by her acquaintances. She tion in the common schools of his native owns a residence in the city of New York, place, after which he learned the trade of a where she spends her winter months and also carpenter, which he followed there for a time, has many friends there. but subsequently moved to Morrisville, where he was the principal contractor for many years. He was an industrious and conscien-

tious workman and always fulfilled the terms TT^HESTON HUTCHINSON. Tlievil- of his contracts to the letter. He erected I jp lage of Morrisville can boast of no many large buildings and residences in Mor- ^«» ' worthier nor more dutiful citizen risville, including the new public school- than the gentleman whose name appears house, the tile factory, and remodeled the above, who was for many years a prominent rubber works plant. Of late he has not en- contractor and builder in that community, joyed the best of health, and he recently re- but who has recently been living in retire- linquished his business in order that he might ment owing to ill health. He is a son of recuperate more rapidly with the weight of

Joseph and Maria (Cheston) Hutchinson, and business cares off his mind. He is a man of was born in Tullytown, Bucks County, Pa., sound judgment, a good neighbor and friend,

August 26, 1826. and possesses the highest esteem of his fel- Joseph Hutchinson, the father of the sub- low townsmen. ject this of personal history, was born in Falls In 1 847, he was united in marriage with township, Bucks County, and during his Hannah Wharton, a daughter of Timothy early career plied the trade of a carpenter Wharton, and their union has resulted in the with good results, after which he became a following issue : Joseph, deceased; Edward; sailor and subsequently attained the rank of William ; Frank ; Maria (Craft) ; Louisa (Mof- sea captain. He continued as such for a few fit) ; and Medora (Sine). He has always been years, but, tiring of life upon the sea, he loan active worker in church affairs and is a cated in Bristol township, Bucks County, member of the Methodist Episcopal Church,

HARMAN YERKES. BUCKS COUNTY 21

ill which he has held various offices. Poli- 1767, was united in wedlock, in 1790, with tically, he is a firm adherent of Republican Margaret Ivong, a daughter of Captain An- principles, and has been a member of the drew Long, of the Continental Army, and council for many years. they reared a son, Stephen. Stephen Yerkes,

the father of tlie gentleman whose name ap-

pears above, was born May 19, 1809, and was united in marriage with Amy Hart Montanye,

r|2)|"ARMAN YERKES, of Doylestown, January 13, 1831. She came of distinguished stock, being daughter of Rev. [ ^^ Bucks County, Pa. , who has attained French a the highest distinction as president Thomas B. Montanye, a grandson of the judge of the Seventh Judicial District of noted French-Huguenot physician. Count

Pennsylvania, has long been a prominent fig- Jean L,e; La Montaigne, who came to New ure in the political and business circles in York City in 1624, and was director-general

this district, where he has the unwavering and member of , the council of that province support and confidence of scores of loyal under the Dutch Government. Mr. and Mrs.

friends. He is of German and French origin, Yerkes passed to their final rest when their

and was born October 8, 1843, in Warminster, son, Harman, was still a boy attending school. Bucks County, being a son of Stephen and Hannan Yerkes, the subject of this notice, Amy Hart (Montanye) Yerkes. was.educated in the common schools of his

Paternally, he is descended in the fifth native- county,-: at the. Tennant School of generation from Anthony Yerkes, who was Hartsville, and, at East- Hampton, Mass., of German birth and came to America prior where he. graduated from WiHiston with the to the eighteenth century. He located at class of 1862.' In that year he also taught Germantown, Pa., where he was one of the. school and began the study of law under the Ross and his son, early settlers, and in 1 803-0 \. served as burgess direction of Hon. Thomas of the borough. He was the progenitor of a the late Judge Henry P. Ross, having for son, Harman, who formed a matrimonial al- his fellow-students such prominent men as liance with Elizabeth Watts, a daughter of Senator George Ross, Judge Henry Harvey, Rev. John Watts,, pastor of Upper Dublin of AUentown, and Judge Henry W. Scott, of Baptist Church of Philadelphia. This union Easton. He was admitted to the bar in No- resulted in the birth of a large family of chil- vember, 1865, and practiced law with much dren, the fifth of whom was Harman, the success until his election to the bench. He great-grandfather of our subject. He was immediately took an active part in political

born January 18, 1721, and was married affairs, becoming a member of the Democratic January 22, 1750, to Mary Stroud, of White State Committee, and continuing as such for Marsh, Montgomery County, and a daughter several years. In 1872-73, he was chairman of Edward Stroud. Their son, Harman, of the judicial committee of conference of the

who first saw the light of day. July 25, Seventh District, comprising Bucks and 22 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Montgomery Counties, and was a delegate to caucus of the two houses and served upon

the Judicial Conventions of that district in the judiciary general, constitutional and

the years 1869, 1871 and 1872. In 1872, he other important committees. In 1883, he was was a delegate from the Fifth District to the unanimously nominated by the Democrats

National Democratic Convention at Balti- for the office of president judge of the Sev- more, with Lewis C. Cassidy as a colleague, enth District, and was elected by a large and was one of the twenty-one members of majority over the sitting judge, Hon. Richard that body who voted for the nomination of Watson. He immediately devoted his atten- Judge Black against Horace Greeley. In tion with much vigor to bringing up the busi- 1880, he was again a national delegate to ness of his district which had fallen in ar- Cincinnati and earnestly supported the nomi- rear, and discharged his duties with such nation of General Hancock. He also acted satisfaction that when the end of his term ap- as chairman of the county committee of Bucks proached, all members of the bar, irrespective in that year, and as a result of his energetic of party, addressed him a letter requesting the work in that capacity. General Hancock car- use of his name for re-election. He was ried the county by 250 votes, whereas in the unanimously renominated by the Democratic

previous campaign the Republican party re- Convention, and- the Republican Judiciary ceived an overwhelming majority. He was Convention declined to nominate a candidate also a delegate to the Democratic State Con- against him, declaring this expedient on their

ventions, which met at Wilkes-Barre in 1873, part. He was again elected and is now serv- at Pittsburg in 1874, at Erie in 1875, where ing his second term. The Democratic State he was chairman of the committee on creden- Convention, which met at Williamsport in

tials, at Harrisburg in 1 877, at Pittsburg in 1875, nominated Judge Yerkes as one of the 1878, and at Harrisburg in 1882. Judge six candidates for judge of the Supreme

Yerkes even in boyhood had the happy fac- Court ; he received the highest vote in the ulty of making friends, and these friendships convention and at the subsequent election ran have been retained throughout his life and several thousand votes ahead of the regular have resulted in his election to many promi- ticket. The vast amount of good accom- nent offices. As early as 1868 he was favored plished by him in his various official capaci- with the nomination of district attorney and ties can hardly be reckoned, but it is needless was elected for a term of three years. In to say that it is greatly appreciated by his 1873, he was the popular choice of Bucks and legions of supporters and the residents of the Northampton Counties for the State Senate, district in general, who are ever ready to and served his constituents in such a manner praise him for his honest and conscientious as to gain there-election in 1876. At the ex- effi)rts. He is the author of the law creating piration of his second term he declined a re- theNorristown Hospital for Insane, and while election. While in the Senate he was caucus in the Senate successfully pressed the bill to nominee for speaker, was chairman of the passage, notwithstanding great obstacles. He BUCKS COUNTY 23

was then selected as one of the first managers and during his entire life lived within a ra- of the institution and was very active in its dius of a half mile. He owned a very large organization. He is also a director of the farm and throughout life carried on agricul- Doylestown Cemetery Co. tural pursuits, accumulating a handsome

June 24, 1 869, Judge Yerkes was united in competency. He was a man of public enter- hymeneal bonds with Emma Buckman, a prise, taking a deep interest in all that per- daughter of Monroe Buckmdn, of Doylestown, tained to the welfare of his community, and and a woman greatly admired by a host of for many years served as justice of the peace. friends for her many excellent traits of char- Politically, he aflBliated with the Democratic acter. Religiously, they are consistent party. He passed away in 1862, at the age members of St. Paul's Episcopal Church of of sixty-five years, and his wife survived him

Doylestown, of which he is a vestryman and several years, dying in 1 871, at the age of rector's warden. Socially, he is a member of seventy-one years. He married Eliza Ever- the Sons of the Revolution, of the Historical hart of Philadelphia, who was born February

Societies of Bucks County and Pennsylvania, 5, 1800, and they were the parents of seven

and of the Doylestown Masonic Lodge, of children : Harman, deceased ; Sarah, the wife which he is past master. Judge Yerkes' por- of Rev. A. J. Hay, a Baptist minister residing trait is shown on another page. in Germantown ; Elwood, of West Philadel- Andrew, deceased; phia ; John, deceased;

Margaret, the wife of Dr. I. Z. Coffinan, of

Phoenixville, Chester County, Pa. ; and Hut- -Y^TUTCHINSON P. YERKES, D.D.S., chinson P., the subject of this biographical r^ one of the oldest and most relia- record. -i-^ V ^ ble of the many dentists in Bucks Dr. Hutchinson P. Yerkes was reared on County, is a highly esteemed citizen of his father's farm in Warminster township, Doylestown, where he has been engaged and attended the Tennant School, conducted in practice since 1861. He comes from a by Prof. Mahlon Long at Hartsville, a very prominent family in the county and is de- popular school from which were graduated scended in the fifth generation from Anthony many men who are now holding prominent Yerkes, the founder of the family in America, positions in different sections of the state. and an ancestor in a direct line of Hon. Har- Upon leaving school at the age of twenty man Yerkes, president judge of the Seventh years, he took up the study of dentistry under Judicial District of Pennsylvania. His pa- the preceptorship of his brother Andrew, who rents are Andrew and Eliza (Everhart) was at the time the leading dentist in Doyles- town. studied with him for three full Yerkes, and he was ' born in Warminster He township, Bucks County, February i, 1841. years, after which he spent one and a half Andrew Yerkes, the father of our subject, years at his profession in Norristown, re- was born in Warminster township in 1797, maining there during a part of 1 863 and 1 864. 24 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIKS

In 1865, he returned to Doylestown and century, locating in Germantown, Pa., where formed a partnership with his brother which he was one of the early settlers, and in 1803-04 continued with good results until the latter's served as burgess of the borough. His son death in 1868. He then assumed the entire Harman was joined in wedlock with Eliza- practice, and his success has been continuous. beth Watts, a daughter of Rev. John Watts,

He is one of the oldest and most skilled den- pastor of Upper Dublin Baptist Church, of tists in this section of the state, and the con- Philadelphia. This union was blessed by a fidence of the people is reposed in him to a large family of children, the fifth born being very large degree. He has kept thoroughly Harman, the great-grandfather of our subject. abreast of the rapid strides made in the He was born January 18, 1721, and was mar- science of dentistry and employs only the ried January 22, 1750, to Mary Stroud, a most improved methods in his work. In daughter of Edward Stroud, of White Marsh, private life, he is of a social disposition and Montgomery County. Their union was has made hosts of friends. blessed by the birth of a large family of

September 6, 1866, he was united in mar- children, one of whom, Harman, was born

riage with Elizabeth Yerkes Dager, a daugh- July 25, 1767. He formed a marital union ter of Daniel H. and Mary W. Dager of Cedar with Miss Margaret lyong, a daughter of Cap-

Grove, Montgomery County, Pa. Mr. Dager tain lyong of the Continental army, in 1790, owned and operated a large blue marble and they reared a son, Stephen. Stephen quarry in Montgomery County. Our subject Yerkes, the father of our subject, was born and his wife are faithful members of the on the old homestead in Warminster town-

Episcopal Church, of which he is a vestry- ship. May 19, 1809, where he was always man. Politically, he is a Republican, but engaged in agricultural pursuits, and became has never held ofi&ce. quite prominent. He was married to Amy

Hart Montanye, January 13, 1831. She came of distinguished French stock, being a daughter of the Rev. Thomas B. Montanye, a grand- 'TEPHEN YERKES, one of the son of the noted French Huguenot physician.

representative agriculturists of War- Count Jean I^e. L,a Montaigne, who came to minster township, who comes of one New York City in 1624, and was director- of the most prominent families of Bucks general and member of the council of that County, was born April 11, 1835, in War- province under the Dutch Government. This minster township, and is a son of Stephen happy union resulted in the following issue : and Amy Hart (Montanye) Yerkes. Thomas, who is now engaged in mining, in is of German and French descent, He and Santa Ana, Sonora, Mexico ; Adolphus, who on his paternal side traces his ancestry to died at an early age ; Stephen, a record of Anthony Yerkes, who was born in Germany whose life is here given Judge Harman, ; and came to America prior to the eighteenth whose biography appears elsewhere in this

HON. HARRY J. SHOEMAKER. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 27

work ; Anna Margaret, the widow of Captain born March 27, 1807, in Warwick, Bucks George H. Buker, who resides in German- County, Pa. He was of Scotch-Irish descent,

town, Pa. ; Alfred E., who resides on a farm his earliest ancestor in America being Henry in Warminster, married Mary A. Haslett Jamison, who settled in Warwick township in and Edwin A., wlio is superintendent of a 1724, on a tract of 500 acres. Major George mine at Tucson, Arizona. Mrs. Yerkes was Jamison married Louisa Stuckert, and their called to her eternal rest in i860, and her children were named : John, Elizabeth S., husband survived her but five years. Jane and George. Aside from the manage- Stephen Yerkes, in whom the interest of ment of his five farms, on which his chief this sketch centers, after completing his pri- pleasure was to plant and build, he found mary education in the district schools of his much time for reading, kept informed in native town, attended college at East Hamp- matters of church and state, and took an ton, Mass., where he obtained a good English active interest therein—all new movements education. He then returned home, and has and improvements meeting with a hearty since been engaged in the cultivation of the sympathy. Being himself in early life an old homestea.d, and now owns a tract of 100 educator, prevented by ill-health from enter- acres. He carries on general farming and ing a profession, subjects of an educational stock raising, and has been decidedly suc- character, particularly historical, engaged his cessful, being one of the highly-respected attention. His was a generous natuie, liber- citizens of the community. He has made ality being not the least of his many virtues. many important improvements upon his Mr. Jamison died January 31, 1886, in his property, and every thing appears carefully seventy-ninth year.

arranged and has about it an air of prosperity and successful management.

In 1859 lis was joined in the bonds of wed-

lock with Elizabeth S. Jamison, a woman of -J^TON. HARRY J. SHOEMAKER, high character, a daughter of Major George l-^J whose recent portrait we present on and l/ouisa (Stuckert) Jamison. Two child- J-^ V ^ the opposite page, is an able attor-

ren have been born to this union : Louise ney-at-law, of Doylestown, who has won high Amy and Elizabeth Jamison, both of whom distinction in the practice of his profession reside at home. Politically, Mr. Yerkes has and in political afiairs. He served one term in always been a stanch Democrat and has been the State Legislature of Pennsylvania, and school director for eleven years. Fraternally, has held many other ofiices of public trust, the

he is a member of Fortuna I^odge, No. 245, duties of which he has discharged in a faith- K. of P., and a charter member of Hatboro ful and impartial manner. In recent years, his Lodge, F. & A. M. attention has been mainly devoted to practice; The father of Mrs. Stephen Yerkes, Major his business is largely that of commercial George Jamison, son of John Jamison, was and corporation law, and he is solicitor and —;

28 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

director in several prominent land compa- enviable reputation. He served in the Com- nies. Essentially, he possesses a legal mind, mon and Select Councils, and took an active is thorough and careful in the preparation of part in securing the Centennial Exhibition his cases, and, being a fluent and convincing for Philadelphia in 1876, being solicitor for speaker, his efforts have been attended by the Centennial Commission. more than ordinary success. He is a son of James Shoemaker was born in Upper Dub- James and Phoebe Shoemaker, and was born lin township in 1823, and soon after his on his father's farm in Horsham township, marriage moved to Horsham, an adjoining Montgomery County, on Christmas Day of township, where he has since resided, and is 1855- numbered among the good reliable citizens.

Mr. Shoemaker is a direct descendant of His life's vocation has been that of farming, Peter Shoemaker, who was a prominent mem- and his success has been continuous. In re- ber of the Society of Friends and a companion ligious attachments, he, as were all his ances- of William Penn, and who settled in German- tors, is a faithful member of the Society of town, Philadelphia,' where, in 1668, he built Friends, of which he is a liberal supporter. what has since been known as " Shoemaker's He is the progenitor of a family of eight first house," believed to have been the first children, five daughters and three sons, house erected in Germantown. namely : Bella, who lives at home with her James Shoemaker, the great-grandfather of father, his wife having died in April, 1896; our subject, was a native and life-long resi- Adeline, the wife of Charles E. Chandler, of of Montgomery County, Pa., where he Germantown Jesse, who died in infancy dent ; ; engaged in agricultural pursuits. He Harry the subject of this personal history was J., ; was also a Quaker in his religious views. He Augustus Brock, ofTullytown, Bucks County, was the father of Jesse Shoemaker, who was a miller and lumber dealer, who married Ida born in Upper Dublin township, Montgomery Burton, the eldest daughter of Elwood and County. The latter was an extensive farmer Anna Burton, and they have one son, I^ester

in that county throughout his life, and was a Charlotte ly. married Russell Twining,"a pros- man of prominence locally, and was called perous farmer of Horsham township, Mont-

upon to fill a number of township offices. gomery County, and they have two children, spent iu Horsham town- His last days were Jennie and Laura ; Emily married Edward B. ship, Montgomery County, where he died in Webster, and they have one child, Harold 1882, at the ripe old age of ninety years. Mr. Webster, who conducts a livery and

His union with Edith Longstreet resulted in boarding stable in Philadelphia, Pa., is a son

the birth of three children : James, the father of Ivukens Webster, a prominent minister of name heads these the Society of of the gentleman whose Friends ; and Mary, who mar-

lines John ; and Charlotte, who died in in- ried Isaac Warner, a progressive ; farmer of fancy. John Shoemaker became an attorney- Horsham township, and they have one daugh- at-law in Philadelphia, and established an ter, Edith. BUCKS COUNTY 29

Harry J. Shoemaker was reared upon his Benjamin Harrison for President. During father's farm, and received his education in Harrison's administration he held the office the public schools of his neighborhood, and of confidential clerk to the second comptroller also in Doylestown Seminary. At the age of of the United States Treasury, and at the nineteen years he began teaching school, and, close of his term of four years settled in after four years of that service, engaged in Doylestown to resume the practice of his merchandising in Tullytown, Bucks County, profession. In 1886, he was the unsuccess- in the meantime taking up the study of law ful candidate for the nomination of his dis- under the tutelage of Hon. B. F. Gilkeson, trict to Congress, and came within two votes the present Banking Commissioner of Penn- of being the clioice of the convention. In sylvania. He applied himself assiduously, 1893, Mr. Shoemaker was appointed a judge and was admitted to the bar of Bucks and of awards at the World's Fair in Chicago, Montgomery Counties, and also became a and served in that capacity as secretary of member of the Supreme Bar of the statei the committee on food products. In 1896, as well as the Supreme Bar of the District he was the choice of the county among the of Columbia. Immediately after his admis- Bucks County candidates for the nomination sion to the bar, he began practice and soon for Congress, but the nomination went to tlie established a good paying clientage. He Montgomery County candidate. As a law- entered actively into politics, and, in 1881, yer, Mr. Shoemaker is an honorable repre- was appointed postmaster of Tullytown, sentative of his profession, and is the solicitor where he then resided, serving until 1884, for several leading business firms in the when, in November of the latter year, he was county and elsewhere. He is a director and elected to the State Legislature on the Repub- one of the charter members of the Doylestown lican ticket to represent the then strong Demo- Trust Company, having served as director cratic district of Bucks County, being the first since its organization. He is solicitor for, of the directors of, the Point Republican elected since 1 878. In the Assem- and one Abino bly he served with marked distinction, intro- Sand Company of New York, and is also measures solicitor for, and a director in, several im- ducing and advocating important ; he was also secretary of the Agricultural portant land companies. He is a man of Committee, which office he held throughout high quality, of a kindly and charitable dis- his term. In 1884, he was sent to the Na- position, and has legions of friends through- tional Republican Convention from his dis- out this section of the state. 28th day of trict as an alternate delegate, and four years On the November, 1878, he was later was elected as alternate delegate-at-large joined in Hymen's bonds with Ella B. Wright, from the state of Pennsylvania to the Na- a daughter of John H. and Elizabeth Wright, tional Convention, and, owing to the absence of Bucks County, and they are the parents of of one of the delegates-at-large, he served as two children; the elder, Elsie C. Shoemaker, delegate in that convention which nominated a charming young miss of seventeen summers, 30 BOO'K OF BIOGRAPHIES

and Edith B., who died in infancy. The purchase and bought a large farm in Hill-

friends of the family say that theirs is a town township, this county, and continued charming household where domestic dis- to reside there until death claimed him. He

putes do not arise, and where the sunshine was a farmer all his life. Andrew Loux, the

of contentment is ever present. In his adopted grandfather of our subject, was born and

county of Bucks, Mr. Shoemaker is looked reared in Hilltown township, and his voca-

upon as a man who is destined to remain a tion was that of a farmer. His son, Mathias favoriteof the people with whom he keeps in Loux, the father of our subject, was born in close touch. Hilltown township, and learned the trade of

On November 30, 1898, Miss Elsie C. a weaver, which he successfully prosecuted Shoemaker, only child of the subject of our in addition to carrying on general farming. sketch, died with heart trouble ; she was His entire life was spent in Hilltown town- aged seventeen years and nine months. ship, where he died on the homestead in

1874. He chose Catherine Yost as his life companion and they became the parents of a family of fourteen children, who were

YS|Vr\ATHIAS J. LOUX has been a resi- named as follows : Andrew, deceased, was a

r= I =/ dent of Bucks County all his life, resident of Mahanoy City, Pa.; Isaac, de- -L and, H V_^ having been reared to man- ceased ; Daniel, deceased ; Hannah, deceased, hood within its boundaries and brought up was the wife of William Mace ; Catherine, to the noble calling of a farmer, he has done wife of Mathias Hartnian, of Line Lexing- his part in its agricultural development ; he ton, this county; Mary, wife of John Kratz, is now living in retirement enjoying a retired a well- farmer of Sterling, 111, ; Elizabeth, earned competency and wife spending his latter of Charles Miller ; Noah resides at days in quiet and peace. This worthy citizen Sterling, 111 , and is a carriage and furniture of New Britain township was born in Hill- maker ; Adrian died, aged three years ; Anna town township, this county, July 13, 1841, and Eli, also deceased ; Israel, who resides and is a son of Mathias and Catherine (Yost) on the old homestead ; David died, aged fif- Loux and grandson of Andrew teen Loux. years and Mathias , ; J. our subject. The Our subject is of sturdy German stock, mother of our subject died in 1874. and the name lyoux has long been connected Mathias J. Loux acquired a liberal educa- with the early history of this county the tion in the district ; schools of Hilltown town- family was founded by Andrew Ivoux, the ship, and remained under the parental roof great-grandfather of our subject, who emi- until he attained the age of twenty years ; at grated from Germany with his two brothers, that time the Civil War broke out, and, and Jacob ; first John Andrew took up a being inspired by a patriotic spirit, Mr. tract of land in Bedminster township, Bucks Loux offered his services in defense of the County, Pa., but later disposed of his first Union, and on the sixth day of September, BUCKS COUNTY 31

1 861, enlisted in Co. A, 104th Reg., Pa. Vol. township, this county, November 12, 1840,

Inf., which was under the command of Col. and is a daughter of William G. and Louise Davis and Capt. Rogers. Our subject partici- (Leidy) Bryan ; her father was a resident of pated in many eugagenients, among which Line Lexington, and was a hatter by trade, the most notable were Fair Oaks, Seven which occupation he followed until his death. Days' Fighting, Siege of Charleston, which Mr. and Mrs. Loux have reared one son,

lasted nine months, John's Island and many Harvey Monroe, born October 23, 1875. others. He was in eleven battles and skir- Harvey resides on a farm near where our mishes the first year of his service. Our subject resides, and he married Anna E. subject received an honorable discharge Haldeman by whom he reared one daughter, September 23, 1864, at Philadelphia, but on Grace Marcella.

March 30, 1865, he re-enlisted in Hancock's Corps in which he served until the following

April, when the war was brought to a close. Returning home, our subject learned the T. MARK'S CATHOLIC CHURCH. trade of a mason, which he followed two In the early Forties, the Catholic years, and then engaged in farming, which population of Bristol was so small

he successfully prosecuted for a period of that its spiritual wants were attended to by

eleven years ; he then took up his former clergymen from Philadelphia and Trenton, trade which he has continued up to the one of whom was Rev. Father Mackin, pastor present time, but on account of his bad of St. John's Church, now the Sacred Heart

health since the war he has been unable to of Trenton, N. J., who came to Bristol twice do much work. In 1880, Mr. Loux pur- a month for that purpose, services being held chased his present residence, which he has in private houses, among them the house of

remodeled into a neat, little home. Our Mr. Brady in Adam's Hollow, just beyond subject takes an active interest in the wel- the creek bounding the borough on the north-

fare of his community of which he has so east. ' The Catholics so increased in number long been a member, and is highly respected that Father Mackin soon realized the neces- by his fellow-townsmen. sity for better and more suitable accommo-

Mr. Loux is a solid Democrat in politics, dations for that portion of his flock, and but is not an aspirant to office ; religiously, immediately inaugurated a movement toward both he and his devoted wife are members the erection of St. Mark's. As his plans of the Reformed Church of Dublin, this met with approval and sympathy on all sides, county. Mr. lyoux on August 12, 1865, he accordingly lost no time in securing the married Annie Elizabeth Bryan, a fourth plot of ground on RadcliflFe street, where now cousin to Hon. William Jennings Bryan, stand the handsome church edifice and rec- who was the Democratic candidate for Pres- tory. In the year 1845 the zealous pastor ident in 1896; she was born in Plumstead and his devoted supporters had the happiness 32 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

of seeing the building completed and ready P. M. McSwiggan became pastor, remaining

for occupancy. Encouraged by the success a little over a year. Rev. James Cutten was of their undertaking and the increasing pastor from 1864 to 1867, and in December of membership, the congregation petitioned the latter year the church was accidentally Bishop Kenrick, of Philadelphia, for a resi- burned to the ground. Feeling that the dent pastor. labor of rebuilding the church would be too It was but a few months later when they onerous for a man of his advanced years, he had the satisfaction of having one in their resigned and was succeeded by Rev. E. F. midst in the person of the Rev. J. C. Flanigan, Prendergast, now the Coadjutor-Bishop of who had been ordained in Philadelphia dur- Philadelphia.

ing the previous March. From that time on, Fatlier Prendergast set to work with a will the increase in the congregation was marked and energy which was not to be daunted, and and it was but a few years before it became at the time of his transfer to Allen'own in necessary to erect an addition to the church, July, 1870, the church was under roof Much doubling its seating capacity. The labor yet remained to be done before the church consequent on this work, together with mis- would be complete, and in the next pastor, sionary duties over a large section of country, Father L,ynch, they found one, who through including Newtown, Yardleyville, New Hope his untiring energy and his great devotion to and other places equally distant, soon im- the cause, did more for the temporal and paired Father Flanigan's health, yet he was spiritual welfare of St. Mark's congregation not deterred in the performance of his work than any other before or since. He assumed until July, 1858, when he was forced to give the guidance of this congregation in July, up and go to Europe under the physician's 1870, and during his rectorship the church orders, in the hope that rest and a milder was completed, as was also the pastoral resi- climate would restore his healtli. His hope dence and St. Andrew's Church of Newtown, was to never be realized, however, as he died of which he had charge. Father Lynch, soon after his arrival in Ireland. The church although a suiFerer for years from consump- during his enforced vacation and after his tion, never relaxed his energy or zeal, and demise was attended temporarily, until the his memory is still justly held in benediction appointment of a regular pastor, by F^'athers by the parishioners. He died in Bristol, Brennan, Quinn and others. In September, April 28, 1879, and was succeeded by Father 1858, Rev. Patrick Nugent assumed charge Ward the following month. Father Ward and labored faithfully at St. Mark's until continued the good work of his predecessor, August, i860, when he was transferred to frescoing the church, making other improve- Pottsville. Rev. Father A. L. Brennan suc- ments, and continued in charge until August, ceeded him, and remained until 1861, wlien he 1887. The building was again partially de- was succeeded b)- Rev. Daniel Kelly. Upon stroyed by fire; after repairing the damage th^ letter's rertjoval tp Tamaqua in 1S63, Rev. caused thereby, he turned his attention toward BUCKS COUNTY 33

the establishment of a parochial school, pur- was no longer suitable for burial purposes, chasing the site now used for that purpose. he purchased a desirable tract of land on the

The building progressed rapidly and was pike to tlie west of Bristol Cemetery. He ready for occupancy when he removed to was ably assisted in his undertakings by Rev. Philadelphia, and the Sisters of the Immacu- Father Magher, and continued in Bristol

late Heart of Mary were selected to conduct until June, 1896, when he received the ap- the school, which opened a month later with pointment to St. Edward's Church, in Phila- an attendance of 300 pupils. delphia. Rev. Hugh McGlinn followed as pastor of Rev. Hugh Garvey has since been pastor

St. Mark's, and continued until February, of St. Mark's ; his congregation has no fear

1889, when he was appointed to the irremov- that either its temporal or spiritual interests

able rectorship of St. Paul's Church of Phil- will suffer during his administration. St. adelphia, being succeeded in the pastorate at Mark's congregation may be justly proud of Bristol by Rev. E. V. McElhone, who resigned its accomplishments under the guidance of in December of the same year to establish a the faithful pastors in the past as well as

refuge for homeless working boys at Eighth the present, for the parish is one of the best and Pine streets, Philadelphia. Rev. Charles equipped in the Arch-diocese of Philadelphia.

J. Vandegrift took charge of the parish in the fall of 1889, and his pastorate may well be considered one of the brightest and most prosperous in the history of the church. ^AMES P. HELPINGS, a shrewd and Through various accidents from fire, etc., a influential politician of Middletown

heavy debt had been contracted, and the pros- township, is descended from one of pect was anything but cheering when he the old and prominent families of this coun-

assumed the managerial reins. Being enty. He was born at Wliite Hall, Philadel-

dowed with splendid financial abilities, which phia County, Pa., Oct. 2, 1848, and is a son he entirely applied to the work before him, of Jacob and grandson of Tunis Hellings. he wrought order out of chaos, and the pros- The great-grandfather of our subject, John pects became brighter and brighter as time Hellings, was born about 1752, and resided went on. He beautified the interior of the in Bristol township, where he was engaged in

church, having it newly frescoed, a new and farming. He was supervisor and filled many

costly altar rail put in place, and also a set of township ofiices. He was twice married, his imported stations of the cross. After liqui- first wife being Anna Bennett, by whom he dating the debt on the school building, he reared five children : two sons, John and organized a literary society and fitted up a Samuel ; and three daughters. His second spacious room for the accommodation of its marriage was with Hannah Bowman, a members in the basement of the school. daughter of Daniel Bowman, and they raised

old graveyard of St. Mark's three sons and five daughters, namely : Jesse Seeing that the ; :

34 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Tunis Jonathan ; Mary ; Lucretia (Mrs. was born in this county in 18 and they ; 14,

Paxton), now residing at Bristol ; Katherine were blessed by the following children ;

; I^ewis the wife of William C. Martha and Hannah. The family were J. ; Rachael, of the Christian at Nathan died young Jacob A. members Church Tully- McEuen ; ; ; town, in the building of which in 1822 John James P., our subject ; and Sarah F., the wife Hellings was largely instrumental. He died of the late Howard Roberts. After the death about 1837, while his wife died in 1852. of her husband, Mrs. Hellings conducted the Tunis Hellings, the grandfather of our sub- hotel for two years, was succeeded by her ject, was a native of Middletown township, son-in-law, W. C. McEuen, and then sold out and he reared the following children : John to her son James P. , who closed the house as ;

Jacob ; Nathan ; Tunis ; Margaret ; Mary a hotel and has since used it as a private ;

Rachael ; and Elizabeth. He died in 181 1. residence. The mother of our subject died

Jacob Hellings, the youngest child born to Feb. 4, 1894, at the age of eighty years, nine his father, was born in Middletown township, months, and twenty-four days. in 181 1; he was a farmer in early life, but James P. Hellings obtained a common later went to Bridesburg, Philadelphia Coun- school education, but the better part of his ty, where he conducted the old Arsenal Ho- education was obtained through actual busi- tel for a period of twenty years ; he then ness experience. He remained at home until moveji to Philadelphia, and located on Second twenty-two years of age, when he went to Ben- street, between Race and Vine streets, and salem township, but, in 1872, he moved back there conducted a hotel a short time. This to Middletown township and was engaged in proving a failure, as he lost about 1 100. 00 per various business enterprises. In 1883, he month, he moved in 1859 to Middletown moved to his mother's place which he later Cross Roads, then known as Helling' s Cross purchased, and which consists of 13^ acres.

Roads ; he purchased the tavern located Our subject has always been connected with there, and conducted the same until his public affairs and is one of the leaders of the death, which occurred Jan. 27, 1879 He was Republican party in the community. In 1880 an active, wide-awake business man, and was he was elected assessor, which office he has

an acknowledged leader in the Republican held ever since, being elected at the last party in his township ; he served as school- election in February, 1898, for a term of one

tax collector ; as constable for many years year has held the office ; ; of constable since and as county coroner. Fraternally, he was 1878; has been school-tax collector twenty a member of the Sr. O. U. A. M. During years has served ; as a delegate to nearly all his career as a tavern keeper, he sold liquors, the county Republican conventions ; and in but was never seen intoxicated nor heard to 1 898 was delegated to the congressional con- swear, and always guarded against tempta- vention at Newtown. Mr. Hellings is an actions being placed in the way of his sons. tive and influential politician, always work- married to He was Elizabeth Hunter, who ing for the advancement of his party, and is ; .

B.UCKS COUNTY 35

widely known throughout the county as a (Lichtenwallner) Stettler, and grandson of leader and a man of many sterling qualities. Henry Stettler.

Mr. Hellings was wedded on Oct. i, 1870, Adam W. Stettler was born in Upper Ma- to Mary E. Keen, a native of Bensalem town- cungie township, L,ehigh county, and was ship, and a daughter of Samuel and Rebecca reared to agricultural pursuits, which voca- (Mood) Keen. Five daughters have been tion he followed until his health failed him,

born to them, namely : Mamie E., wife of when he retired to the village of Ivitzenberg,

Rush K. Hellyer ; Ella R., who died young where he passed from this earth at the age ;

Marion T., the wife of George M. Reed, Jr. of thirty-three. He was joined in the bonds

Clara K. ; and Edna G. Socially, he is a of wedlock with Susan Ivichtenwallner, a member and past grand of Neshaminy I/odge, daughter of Samuel I/ichtenwallner, a prom-

No. 422, I. O. O. F., of Hulmeville ; and was inent resident of Long Swamp township, representative of his lodge to the Grand Berks County, P^.

Ivodge held at York, Pa., May 23, 1889 ; has Our subject was the only child born to his been on the relief committee twenty years; parents, and his boyhood days were spent

is a member and chief patriarch of the Odd on the farm ; he received his intellectual

Fellows' Encampment ; and is a member of training in private and public schools and at

the Jr. O. U. A. M. Religiously, he and his Muhlenberg College, Allentown, Pa. ; when wife are members of the Methodist Church at in his Junior year he left college, and became

Neshaminy, of which he is steward, treasurer, a medical student under A. P. Fetherolf, of

and trustee, while his wife is treasurer of the Ivitzenberg. Later he entered Bellevue Hos- I/adies' Aid Society. Mr. Hellings has for pital Medical College, and was graduated many years been a gratuitous funeral direc- from that institution with the class of 1891. tor of his community for miles around. In May of the same year Dr. Stettler came

to his present field of operation, and is the only physician and surgeon in his section of

the township. The Doctor is a very suc- R. WII^IylAM HENRY STETT- cessful practitioner, and has already gained I/ER. This rising young physi- prominence in the medical profession. As a B cian is thoroughly abreast of the citizen he is highly valued, and is assisting times in the advancement of medical science, materially in maintaining the existing sys- and stands in the foremost ranks of the lead- tem of good order and progress. ing physicians and surgeons of Bucks County, Dr. Stettler formed a matrimonial alliance having a large and lucrative practice in the with Maggie Schantz, a daughter of Jacob village of Spinnerstown and the immediate T. Schantz, of Litzenberg, and this union vicinity. He was born in Upper Macungie has been blessed by the birth of one child, township, Lehigh County, Pa., October 10, A. Howard, born April 16, 1898. Our sub-

1869, and is a son of Adam W. and Susan ject purchased the residence of Elias Moyer, :

36 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

which he has fitted into a handsome office Harvey Gillam, Sr., was born on the old

and home. Politically, the Doctor is an un- farm, near Langhorne, in 1814, and was en-

wavering Republican ; fraternally, he is past gaged in tilling the soil during his early days. chief and district grand master of the Knights He purchased a farm two miles east of the

of the Golden Eagle ; he is also a member of village, but on account of poor health he the Bucks County Medical Society. later sold that property and engaged in the mercantile business in Langhorne, and then returned to farming, purchasing a small farm of 30 acres near the village. He soon gave

"ARVEY H. GILIvAM is a prominent up farming and went to Philadelphia, where real estate dealer and public-spirited he was engaged in the wholesale boot and

citizen of the village of Lang- shoe business ; after closing out that business

horne, Bucks County, Pa., and is a worthy he became a member of the Farrell Herring representative of an old and pioneer family Co., fire-proof safe manufacturers, remaining of Bucks County. He was born in the above in that business until his death occurred. village July 23, 1846, and is a son of Harvey In politics he was a strong Republican. He and Hannah (Hunt) Gillam, and grandson of was wedded to Hannah Hunt, of Chester William Gillam. County, Pa., and they became the parents of

Simon Gillam, our subject's great-grand- four children, as follows : Mary W., the wife father, was also a native of Bucks County, of William Albertson, of Philadelphia; W. and was of English parentage ; he was a Henry died, aged thirty years ; Morris, also Quaker preacher and owned an estate of 400 deceased, and Harvey H., the subject of this acres of land in this county. His son Wil- memoir. The mother of our subject departed liam, the grandfather of our subject, was also from this life in 1857. born in this county, and upon the death of his Harvey H. Gillam was intellectually trained father inherited the property, and followed in the Friends' School, and completed his ed- agricultural pursuits the remainder of his ac- ucation at the Friends' Central School in Phil- tive days. He was joined in marriage with Su- adelphia; when a young man he embarked in sanna Woolston, by he reared a whom family agricultural pursuits, purchasing a farm of 1 50 of four sons and five daughters, namely acres in Middletown township, this county, Harvey, Jonathan, William, Simon, Eliza- upon which he resided for a period of twenty beth, Anna, Hannah, Susan and Mary. Wil- years. In 1886 he rented his farm and moved liam Gillam died in 1840 at the age of fifty- to Langhorne, where he has since been en- four his widow attained the age of ; seventy- gaged in the real estate business. Mr. Gillam two. He and his family were prominent is a thorough business man and occupies a members of the Society of Friends. Mr. prominent position among the other substan- Gillam was a hard and industrious worker, and tial business men of his vicinity. enjoyed the good-will of many friends. Fraternally, Mr. Gillam is a member of the

GEORGE LEAR. HENRY LEAR.

BUCKS COUNTY 41

Masonic Order, Bristol I/odge, No. 25 ; relig- is no attorney in Bucks County his equal in iously, he is a member of the Society of knowledge of law. Other interests than

Hicksite Friends. Politically, he is a Repub- professional have also claimed much of his lican, and has served ten years as justice of attention and talents, and he is prominently the peace, during which time he has settled connected with many commercial enterprises many estates. Mr. Gillam was one of the of Doylestown and Bucks County. Mr. Lear

chief promoters of the Langhorne, Newtown was born in Doylestown March 21, 1848, and

& Bristol Electric Street Railway Co., and is a son of George and Sidney (White) Lear, was also secretary and a director of the same; and grandson of Robert and Mary (Meloy)

he is a member and director of the L,anghorne Lear, the grandfather being an early settler

Building & Loan Association ; and is a di- of Bucks County. rector of the Farmers' National Bank of Bucks George Lear, the father of the subject of

County at Bristol, Pa. Our subject was mar- these lines, was born in Warwick township,

ried October 2, 1873, to Mary Mitchell, a Bucks County, February 16, 1818, and fin- daughter of Pierson and Caroline Mitchell. ished his education, begun in the county Her father was president of the Farmers' schools, with a term at Newtown Academy.

National Bank of Bucks County, at Bristol, From the time he first began to look after his Pa., and director of the People's National Bank own wants and direct his future, at the age of of I/anghorne, Pa. As a result of this happy thirteen years, until he had become nineteen

union, a family of two daughters was reared, years old, he was employed as a farm laborer. namely: Caroline M. and May. Mr. Gillam Then for four years he was a teacher in the has been remarkably successful in his busi- schools, after which he secured a situation in ness ventures ; is enterprising and progres- a country store, and devoted his spare time sive, and commands the confidence and re- to the study of law, under the direction of spect of a multitude of acquaintances through- E. T. McDowell, of Doylestown, a lawyer out the county. of prominence in that day. In April, 1844, George Lear left the country store, and removed to Doylestown, where he finished his professional education, and was admitted

"ENRY LEAR, president of the Doyles- to the bar November 16, 1844. He soon town National Bank for the past proved his ability to be of the highest order,

fifteen years, is a leading member and rapidly rose to prominence in the com- of the legal profession in Eastern Pennsyl- munity. In August, 1848, he was appointed vania. He was admitted to the Bucks County deputy attorney-general by Hon. James

Bar September 11, 1871, and has been in con- Cooper, was re-appointed by Hon. Cornelius tinuous practice ever since, especially distin- Darragh, and held the position until the guishing himself as a counsellor, skilled in office of district attorney was created in all departments of the legal profession ; there 1850, thus superseding that of deputy attor- 42 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIBS

ney-general. He was made president of the ceiving a thorough preparatory training in Doylestown National Bank in March, 1865, the schools of Doylestown and Philadelphia,

and held the office until his death, May 23, he became a student at Yale, and graduated 1884, being succeeded by his son, Henry, the from that institution in 1869. He attended subject of this brief sketch. He was a lectures on law in the University of Pennsyl- member of the Constitutional Convention of vania during the winter of 1870-71, and was

1872-73, from the Seventh Senatorial Dis- admitted to the bar in the fall of 1871. With trict, but did not sign his name to nor vote the prestige of his father to aid him, and with for the constitution adopted by the conven- his own ability of a high nature to push

tion ; while he was in favor of many measures him to the front, our subject rapidly rose

of reform, he was opposed to the constitution to prominence, and soon came to be re-

as finally adopted, because of its encroach- garded as a leading lawyer of the county. ments upon the rights of the people. In the He represented the Philadelphia & Read-

cause of temperance he labored earnestly. ing Railroad until it went into the receiver's

He was appointed attorney-general of the hands ; he now represents the Pennsylvania Commonwealth by Governor Hartranft in Railroad. As already stated above, he was 1875. He attained a high position among made president of the Doylestown Na- his fellow-citizens by the force of industry tional Bank upon the death of his father, and intellect ably directed. His strong will and has held the position since. He was and indomitable courage were marked traits the leading spirit in the organizatioti of of his character. As a speaker he was con- the following companies, and is directing vincing and forceful in his utterances, and their policies as president : Lahaska Mutual had great power before juries. His addresses, Fire Insurance Company, Doylestown Elec- though delivered with great oratorical ability, tric Iviglit Company, Doylestown Gas Com- had a substratum of sound sense, and inevit- pany and Bucks County Traction Com- ably appealed to the decision of the intellect. pany.

In January, 1845, Mr. I^ear married Sidney Our subject was married June 10, 1875, to White, of Montgomery County, and their Louisa P. Brock, daughter of John J. and three children were named : Henry, Cordelia, Julia (Philler) Brock, and their children and Mary, who became the wife of George P. number three sons and two daughters, as

Brock. follows: John B., George, William P., Julia Henry I^ear was given the best of educa- B. and Sidney. Mrs. Lear is a member of tional advantages, and that he profited by his the Episcopal Church. Mr. L,ear is a very superior training is self-evident, for he gives popular man with all classes, and wields a the impression of being scholarly and learned' great amount of influence for good in the on first acquaintance, and further knowledge county. Although pleasant and genial in of his ability but strengthens this opinion his manners, he is strictly a business man in and makes it a grounded belief. After re- every sense of the word, and he is held all BUCKS COUNTY 43

the more in esteem because of his devotion The nuptials took place at the Isfield Friends' to the sober duties of life. Meeting, and the marriage certificate bears The publishers of this work take pleasure the date, "8th month, 24th day, 1688," and in presenting on preceding pages portraits of was witnessed by William Penn, his wife,

George I^ear and his son, Heniy I^ear, the son, and daughter. It is not strange that the subject of the above life history. ties of consanguinity and faith alike should grow into the warmth of friendship and the confidence which was displayed in the letters

of the proprietary during the last five years

EORGE CHAPMAN BLACKFAN, of Edward's life. The last authentic record a highly esteemed citizen of New- of the latter is the letter dated London, 1689, town, Bucks County, Pa. , is, after many years which he wrote to Richard Morris in America, of activity in the business world, still finan- containing an order proclaiming William and cially identified with many enterprises, which Mary, King and Queen of England, France, were established for the public welfare. The and Ireland. Tradition has it, however, that family, of which he is a worthy representative he purchased or obtained grants of valuable of the present day, was one of the first Quaker land in the Province from the Penns, and families that located in America, where they was making ready to immigrate to America were free from the persecutions to which with his wife and only son, when death cut they were subjected in England. Among the short his plans, about the year 1690. The friends and counsellors of William Penn, the papers of transfer were either lost or de- great founder of that sect in this country, stroyed, when he was taken sick, as they and bound to him by ties of kinship, was one could not be found after his death. The Edward Blackfan, who was mentioned fre- widow and her son came to America in 1700, quently in the records of the Province and in settling in Pennsburg, where they took

the letters of Penn. The family was among charge of the proprietary house and were the early converts to Quakerism and attended well received by their kinsmen.

the Meeting at Isfield, England, which the The son, William, upon attaining his ma- Penn family also attended. They too sufiered jority, by a deed of gift from Thomas and the penalties for adhering to that faith, and William Penn, became the owner of 500 acres John Blackfan, the father of Edward, was of land in Solebury township, Bucks County. imprisoned and finally excommunicated for The original deed is in existence at the pres- refusing to attend the Established Church or ent time and is the property of Ogden Black-

to pay tithes. The latter was a resident of fan of Trenton, N. J. He married Eleanor Steyning, Sussex County. Wood of Philadelphia in 1721, and many Edward Blackfan was united in marriage prominent names appear in the marriage with Rebecca Crispin, a cousin of William certificate, including those of the mayor, sur- Penn, their fathers having married sisters. veyor-general, provincial commissioner, and ;

44 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

the attorney- general. About 171 8, he moved of Mrs. Blackfan, who in turn left it to his upon his estate in Solebury township, and grandsons, John and Thomas Blackfan. Wil-

lipon his death it was divided between his two liam and Esther Blackfan had six children,

sons, Crispin and William, the former taking three of whom were sons : John, the grand-

the western half, and the latter the remaining father of our subject ; Thomas, who died un-

half After the marriage of her son, Mrs. married ; and Jesse, who married Jane Def- Blackfan formed a second union with Nehe- fendorf, a native of New York City. Mr.

miah Allen, a prominent citizen and a mem- Blackfan died in 1796, and his wife in 1806. ber of the city council of Philadelphia. Wil- John Blackfan located upon the farm left liam and his wife Eleanor reared six children, to him by his grandfather, which he culti-

namely: Crispin; Elizabeth; Rebecca; Sarah; vated until his death in 1 806. He was united William; and Hannah. Crispin Blackfan in matrimonial bonds with Martha Quinby, after his marriage to Martha Davis moved to and they reared one son, John. After his

Trenton, N. J., where his family has since death, Mrs. Blackfan formed a second union lived. He was the father of nine children, with Dr. Isaac Chapman, of Wrightstown. eight daughters and one son, Edward, who John Blackfan, our subject's father, was

married Mary Smith, by whom he had four born in 1799, on the old Dawson homestead,

children, three of whom were sons : Crispin, and after his marriage succeeded to the own-

who settled in Trenton, N. J., where lie lived ership of that property. In 1835, the house

throughout his life; Samuel, who succeeded and everything within it was destroyed by fire, to the ownership of the old homestead, which and he subsequently erected the building now passed out of the family name upon his death, standing near the old site. In 1821, he mar-

it now being owned by Charles S. Atkinson, ried Elizabeth R. Chapman of Wrightstown, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth a descendant of John Chapman, who was Eastburn, a daughter of Moses Eastburn born in Stanhope, Durham County, England,

and Joseph, who studied medicine and prac- November 24, 1624. He immigrated to this ticed at Radnor, Delaware County, Pa., but country in 1684, locating in Wrightstown whose descendants now live at Norristown. township, Bucks County, where he purchased William Blackfan, the great-grandfather of 400 acres of land and established the Chap- our subject and a son of William and Eleanor man homestead, which is now owned by our Blackfan, was a farmer of Solebury township. subject. The union mentioned above was He married Esther Dawson, who came from a blessed by the birth of seven children, three

well-known family of that section; her grand- of whom died young ; the remaining mem- father was John Dawson, to whom 500 acres bers of the family were as follows : Hetty of land in Solebury township, two miles Ann, who married George Watson, died in west of New Hope, were deeded by Ralph 1867; William C, who lives on the old home- Jackson and Thomas Harding. This prop- stead in Solebury township, married Eliza- erty was left to Thomas Dawson, the father beth Ely of Philadelphia ; George Chapman, a

BUCKS COUNTY 45

whose name appears at the head of this bio- was one of the organizers and is a director of

graphical record ; and Martha C, the wife of the Newtown Electric Street Railway, New- George Watson, lives in Philadelphia. Upon town Electric I^ight Co., and Newtown Water the death of his'wife in 1856, John Blackfan Works. He still retains his farm in Wrights- married Francenia Ely in 1864, and soon after town township, and also owns property in moved to Yardley, where he passed away in Newtown. He is a man of unquestioned in- 1878. tegrity, and has many friends throughout the

Such is the record of the descendants, down county. to the present generation, of the stanch old May 21, 1867, he was married to Lavinia

Quakers, whom it pleased William Penn to T. Worstall, a daughter of Edward H. and

call cousins and honor with his friendship Maria E. (Smith) Worstall, of Newtown, and and confidence. There have been no great they are the parents of two children. John, politicians them they born April 22, 1869, who is a member of the statesmen nor among ; have led upright and exemplary lives, and firm of Worstall Bros. & Co., of Newtown,

their descendants are proud of an inheritance, married Mary Ivinton, May 24, 1893, ^^^ has

which, if it brings no great riches nor fame, one daughter, L,avinia L,inton. Walter W.

brings that which is far more desirable, — was born October 16, 1873, and died June 30,

good name. 1 88 1. Religiously, Mr. and Mrs. Blackfan George Chapman Blackfan was born upon and family are faithful members of the

a farm in Solebury township, January 14, Friends' Meeting. Our subject has always

1836, and obtained a good education in the been identified with the Republican party, Tremont Seminary at Norristown, Pa., and but has never been an ofiice seeker. in the Samuel Gummere School at Burling-

ton, N. J. In i860, he moved upon the farm of 140 acres in Wrightstown township, which

was left to him by his uncle, George Chap- (^>r'I,FRED EIvY FIRMAN, a prbminent man, and there he successfully engaged in m andan influential business man of the agricultural pursuits until 1880. He then village of Churchville, Pa. , is en- moved to Newtown, where he erected a hand- gaged in dealing in real estate and is also a some brown-stone residence at No. 32 Chan- notary public. He is enterprising and pub-

cellor street, where he has since continued lic-spirited, and is performing all the obliga- in his active business life. Since his residence tions of a dutiful citizen. He was born in Newtown, he has taken a great interest in Falls township, Bucks County, August 25, and Eliza (Keen) the welfare of the town and has lent his aid 1 84 1, and is a son of David Firman, to many improvements, both financially and Firman, and grandson of George township by his personal support. He has served as a who was a resident of Plumstead councilman, and has been a director of the and was a farmer by occupation. First National Bank for twelve years. He David Firman, the father of our subject, , ;

46 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

was born and reared in Plumstead township, offices he faithfully and honestly performs. this county, and his early days were spent He also represents the Mutual Benefit I/ife

learning the trade of a blacksmith, which oc- Insurance Co. , of Newark, N. J., and is en- cupation he followed at Fallsington, Pa., the gaged in the buying and selling of real estate. most of his active period. At the time of his He has settled many estates since becoming

death, which occurred in 1884, he was resid- a resident of the village, and is the owner of

ing at Ocean City, N. J. He was joined in a fine farm of 15 acres of land, which he the bonds of wedlock with Eliza Keen, a rents. native of Philadelphia, and this union was Alfred E. Firman was wedded September

blessed by the birth of four children : George 25, 1869, to Adeline S- Dungan, who was born

A., a retired blacksmith and an old soldier, in Warminster township, December 25, 1844,

residing at Fallsington, Pa., was married to and who is a daughter of Jesse and Adreanna Deborah Adams, by whom he reared two (Cornell) Dungan. Her parents were de-

children, David and Georgiana ; Alfred E. scended from old and prominent families of

the subject of this memoir ; Alama died, aged Bucks County, her father having been born twelve years, and Anna M., of Ocean City, in Northampton township, and her mother

N. J., was united in marriage with Cornelius being a native of Southampton township.

Mahan. The mother of our subject passed Mr. Dungan was a farmer the most of his life, from this life at Camden, in N. J., 1885. and died May 4, 1892 ; his wife died in Octo- Alfred E. Firman enjoys a good common ber, 1868. They were the parents of nine

school education, which he obtained in the children, namely : Isaac, deceased, was twice public schools of his native township ; he married, —his first wife was Rebecca Booz, and remained at home until twenty-two years of his second wife was Cynthia Ann Doan age, and then went West as far as Omaha, George is living in retirement in Upper Neb. After remaining there a short time, he Makefield township, and he was married to located in Chicago, 111., where he was em- Adeline Scott John resides in Northampton ; ployed as time-keeper for the city railroad, township, and his wife is Esther Cooper; occupying that position for a period of twenty- is David a resident of Trenton, N. J., and he two months. He then returned East and wedded Emma Cadwallader ; Mary Jane, de- worked for the United States Government ceased, was the wife of Franklin Fetter, who near Washington, D. C., in a horse is hospital also deceased ; Ann Eliza is the wife of about one year. In 1869, our subject went to John K. Tranck, and they live in Philadel- Doylestown, Pa., and for sixteen years held phia ; lyouisa was the wife of William Cook, the office of deputy prothonotary. In 1886, and they are both deceased ; Sarah is the wife he became a resident of Churchville, and pur- of S. Keller; and Adeline S., the wife of our chased the Krusen estate. In the spring of subject. The paternal grandfather of Mrs. 1889, he was elected justice of the peace, and Firman was Isaac Dungan, of Northampton in 189S, notary public, the duties of which township, and he married Mary Dyer, by

SAMUEL Z. FREED. BUCKS COUNTY 49

whom he reared three children : Jesse, Thomas interest in party affairs. He was united in and John. Her maternal grandfather was marriage with Sophia Flnck of Richland Gillian Cornell, of Southampton township, township, and they became the parents of and he wedded Jane Craven, of Warminster nine children, namely : John, deceased, re- township, and four children were born to sided at Allentown, Pa. ; lycvi is a farmer them, namely: Adreanna, Catherine, Jane near Big Rapids, Mich. ; Elizabeth, deceased, and Craven. In politics, Mr. Firman is a was married to George Keiper, also deceased ; strong Democrat ; fraternally, he is a member Henry F,, the father of our subject Joseph, ; of the Doylestown Ivodge, No. 193, I. O. O. deceased ; Amanda, deceased, was the wife

F. Both our subject and wife attend the Re- of Henry Trumbore Josiah is a carpenter ;

formed Church at Churchville. and builder of Bethlehem, Pa. ; Michael is

also a carpenter of Bethlehem ; and Sallie, who resides in Allentown, Pa. Henry F. Freed, our subject's father, was 'AMUEL Z. FREED, attorney-at- born in Richland township, October 6, 1839,

law, whose portrait is presented and resided there throughout his life. He

on the opposite page, is one of the received a limited education in the common most prominent and distinguished members schools of his neighborhood, and early in of his profession in Bucks County, and is life began to learn the trade of a carpenter, located in Doylestown, where he has a lucra- following the same until he attained the age tive practice. He is finely educated and well of thirty years, when he took to farming ; he versed in the intricacies of his calling, and has also followed undertaking to a large ex- stands high among the members of his pro- tent during recent years. He was drafted fession in this section. He is a son of Henry during the Civil War,' serving eleven months F. and Sarah Ann (Ziegenfuss) Freed, and in the army, being stationed at Buford, S. C. was bom in Richland township, this county, In his political views, he is a strong Demo- as supervisor, and has taken November 10, 1856. crat, has served of interest in local poli- The Freed family is of sturdy German an unusual amount tics religiously, he is an active member and origin. Henry Freed, the grandfather of our ; the Church, subject, was born in Richland township, liberal supporter of Dutheran only Lutheran in the family. Oc- where he resided all his life, dying in 1865 being the wedded to Sarah Ann at the age of sixty-four. He learned the tober 8, 1853, he was Richland township, Feb- stone-mason's trade, which he followed dur- Ziegenfuss, born in and a daughter of Samuel ing his early days, but later turned his entire ruary 22, 1833, Ziegenfuss was born in attention to agricultural pursuits. Relig- Ziegenfuss. Samuel County, but became a resident iously, he was a consistent member of the Northampton political views, he was of Richland township, Bucks County, upon Reformed Church ; in majority he married Catherine a decided Democrat, taking an intelligent attaining his ; 50 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Rosenberger, and they reared a family of he engaged in teaching school, continuing seven children: Sarah Ann, the mother the same for a period of four years. Having

of our subject ; Henry, a retired carpenter of determined upon the profession of a lawyer in

Bethlehem, Pa. ; William is a carpenter of the meantime, on April 5, 1880, he entered

Bethlehem lyucy Etta is the wife of ; I,ewis the office of J. M. Shellenberger, a prominent Deaterly, of Line I^exington, Pa. ; Laviua is attorney, and was admitted to the bar Octo- the widow of the late John Stover ; Rev. ber 23, 1882. He was admitted to the Mont- Samuel Addison is a graduate and now a gomery County Bar in 1889, and on Febru-

director of the Lutheran Tlieological Semi- ary 6, 1888, he was admitted to the State

nary at Mount Airy, and is pastor of the St. Supreme Bar. Mr. Freed is one of the Michael's Lutheran Church of Germantown, most eminent and distinguished attorneys of

Pa. ; and Blias, a cigar manufacturer of this county, and stands foremost among the Quakertown, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Freed are many worthy men of this section of the state the parents of the following children, all of as an energetic, able and upright attorney, a whom are living except one, who died aged courteous gentleman, and a kind neighbor

six months : Samuel Z., the subject of this and friend.

sketch Jonas E. , shipping clerk ; at Phila- Mr. Freed and Lizzie Y. Nicholas, of Rich-

' delphia for the Philadelphia & Reading land township, were happily united in the

Railroad; Albanas, foreman in the cigar fac- bonds of matrimony May 15, 1880, and they tory of William R. Roedel of Quakertown are the proud parents ; of two children, John Amandus, deceased Lucy Etta, first married ; Ralphus and Henry Graf. Our subject is a John C. Hilleguss, and upon his death director of the Doylestown Trust Company, wedded Amandus Fosbenner of Rockhill and is a director and secretary of the Doyles-

township ; Wilson is an expert operator and town Gas Company. He is a Democrat in works in York City Matilda is New ; the wife politics, decided in his views, and casts his of Amandus K. Stoneback, of Richland vote for those principles which he believes to township Jacob is a bricklayer of ; Richland be the only ones which will safely perpetuate

township ; Sylvanus is a carpenter and our excellent system of government. He has stonecutter of Richland township ; Katie is served as a member of the school board six the wife of Elmer E. Weaver, and they years, his term expiring in June, 1897. Mr. reside in Springfield township ; William is Freed made many campaign speeches in this

a farmer of Richland township ; Sallie ; and state during the campaign of Garfield and Isaac, a bricklayer by trade, who lives in Hancock, and has made many speeches since Richland township. during presidential campaigns. In 1888 he Samuel Z. Freed was intellectually trained was honored with the nomination of district for the battles of life in the common schools attorney by his party, but was defeated by of his native town.ship and in the Quaker- his opponent, Mahlon H. Stout, by a narrow

town High School ; at eighteen years of age majority of 51 votes. Religiously, he is a BUCKS COUNTY 51

prominent member of the L,utheran Church, township. New Jersey, where he also taught of which he is an elder, superintendent of a free school, being, perhaps, the first public the Sabbath School, and secretary of the school teacher in this section of the country. board of trustees. Fraternally, Mr. Freed is The latter's son, John George, the great- a past grand master of the Doylestown Lodge, grandfather of our subject, returned to the

No. 94 ; P. C. P. Doylestown Encampment, old homestead in Nockamixon township,

No. 35, I. O. O. F. ; a member of the Grand now in possession of Mrs. Francis Rapp. Lodge and Grand Encampment, and has David Rapp, the grandfather of Ryan, was been a representative of the subordinate body born on the old homestead and followed the to the Grand Lodge of the same order. He tailor's trade. His wife was Anna Margaret

is also a member and past chief of St. Tam- Rymond. William M. Rapp, the editor's many Castle, K. of G. E- father, was born on what was formerly a

part of the old homestead. He is a carpen-

ter, millwright and boatbuilder. In 1859 he was married to Miss Sybilla Groover, and Yf^YAN RAPP, a descendant of one ot began housekeeping at Kintnersville, where yyr the old families of Bucks County, is he resided until 1872, when he and his I -^ V.^ the well-known editor and pro- family moved to Monroe, now Lehnenburg, prietor of the Riegelsville News^ a publica- Pa., and in 1873 to Riegelsville. Since the

tion that makes its appearance weekly and death of his wife, in 1894, he has been fol- has a large circulation in the- village and lowing millwrighting, chiefly in New York

vicinity. He is a son of William M. and and surrounding cities. The children of Sybilla (Groover) Rapp, and was born at William M. Rapp and his wife, Sybilla

Kintnersville, Nockamixon township, Bucks (Groover) Rapp, are as follows : Ancenetta,

Ryan Irvin Ada ; Otto deceased Oscar ; ; ; County, Pa., Nov. 12, 1864. ; ; and twins, who died in infancy. He is descended from Philip Henry Rapp, William O. ; a Lutheran minister, who emigrated from Ryan Rapp started in life as a drover's farm during the summer, Germany prior to 1750, and became pastor of boy, worked on a cart driver at the Dur- a church in Germantown. Later he preached and subsequently as a the age of eighteen he in New York, near the' entrance to the Brook- ham Iron Works. At school and taught lyn Bridge, and returned to Philadelphia some began teaching public himself an able in- time afterward. About 1766 he dedicated eight terms, proving purchased the Riegels- the Tohickon Lutheran Church, in Bucks structor. In 1890 he and, in County, being the pastor at that time. After ville Advocate^ established in 1889, obtained possession of the Riegelsville the Revolutionary War broke out he moved 1 89 1, established in 1891 also, and consoli- to Nockamixon township, where he now News, dated the two. to 1893 the News was lies buried. His son, Philip Henry, was a Up Otto Rapp & Bro., but since farmer, and took up his abode in Holland published by 52 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

that time it has been published by the sub- New Bristol. In 1720, upon petitioning ject of this sketch. The News is an eight- Governor Keith, a charter was granted for column paper, 26 X 40, neatly printed, and the incorporation of Bristol, which continueli abounding in items of local and general in effect until the Revolutionary War. An- interest. The editorials, being substantial thony Burton was a man of education and and well written, are a credit to the writer. refinement and held considerable influence in

The editor of this journal is also musically the county, serving as justice of the peace for inclined. He has taught music successfully, several years, beginning in 1715. In religious plays several instruments, and has composed attachments he was a member of the Estab- a number of pretty selections. lished Church, and, besides giving the land

for the church and churchyard of St. James' Episcopal Church of Bristol, contributed liberally toward the erection of the church edi-

'OHN BURTON, ESQ., who for many fice in 171 2. In the records of the church, it years followed the vocation of a farmer appears that he and many of his lineal de- with great diligence and success, has scendants are entitled to the occupancy of acquired a handsome competency and a com- two pews in the church forever. December fortable home, and is now living in retire- 18, 1687, he was joined in wedlock with Sarah ment upon his farm within the corporate Gibbs, a widow, whose death occurred on the limits of Tullytowu borough, Bucks County, 28th of June, 17 18. He formed a second al-

Pa. He is a son of Anthony and Mary liance on July 28, 1720, with Susan Keene,

(Headley) Burton, and was born in the town and two children were born to them, namely : of his residence, August 3 1829. Martha, who died unmarried, and Anthony,

He is descended from one Anthony Burton, Jr. Mr. Burton was called to his final rest in one of the first settlers of Bucks County, then 1739, and was laid to rest in St. James' known as Buckingham, Pa., and a native of Churchyard at Bristol.

England, although the date of his immigra- Anthony Burton, Jr., who was born July tion to this country is doubtful. It is authen- 17, 1721, became an extensive landowner tic, however, that he was a large land-owner and resided on his estate, lying about midway of Buckingham prior to 1684, as the book of between Bristol and the Ealls of the Dela- cattle marks of that date, belonging to Phin- ware, in Bristol township. February 12, eas Pemberton, describes and records his 1752, he was united in marriage with Mary brand. He is also known to have been a Hough, an earnest member of the Society of slave-owner at that time. March 16, 1695, Friends and a daughter of Richard Hough, he, in association with Thomas Burk, pur- who was a prominent worker in that body. chased from Peter White and others a tract It is thought that Mr. Burton was converted of land, covering the present site of Bristol, to the faith of his wife, as after his marriage which they laid out in town lots and called he did not attend the Bristol Church, and his BUCKS COUNTY 53

children all became Friends. He was the fortunate as he, and to the worthy poor. He father of eight children, four of whom sur- was a pleasant and interesting companion,

vived his death, namely : John ; Martha, born and his death in 1874 was a cause of lamen-

July 25, 1756; Anthony, born August 9, tation not only to his numerous friends, but 1758, and Jonathan, born August 21, 1765. to the community in general, which held him John Burton, the grandfather of our sub- in the highest esteem as a man of great worth

ject, was born September 17, 1753, and dur- and influence. He was joined in a matri-

ing a major portion of his life lived upon the monial alliance with Mary Headley, a de-

old homestead, but the latter years of his life scendant of a very prominent Bucks County were spent in Falls township, where he died family, and after her death was married to

September 3, 1835, and now lies buried at Anna Paxson. He was the progenitor of the

Fallsington. Remarried in February, 1778, following children : Hannah, Joshua, Caro- Mrs. Rachel Wilson (ne^ Satcher), a widow line, Anna, Elwood, a successful merchant of Henry Wilson, and their union resulted in of Tullytown, and John, the subject of this

the birth of two children : Joseph and John. life record. After her demise in 1781, he was again mar- John Burton spent his early life upon the ried to Hannah Watson, and they became the farm of his father, but after attaining the

parents of the following children ; Benjami'n, years of manhood he engaged in the mercan- Mary, Rachel, Anthony and Charles. tile business in Tullytown for some time. Anthony Burton, the father of our subject, When the Civil War broke out he gave his although his vocation was that of a farmer, patriotic ardor full sway and enlisted in the was connected with many business enter- famous Anderson Cavalry, serving in eigh- prises and was one of the prominent and in- teen fights and skirmishes. He went into the fluential men in his community. For twenty- service as a private, but was later promoted four years he was president of the Farmers' to the rank of lieutenant, which he held when National Bank of Bucks County, was presi- he was mustered out. Upon returning home, dent of the Delaware River Steamboat Co., he again engaged in agricultural pursuits,

and was called upon to fill many other posi- which he followed industriously until the tions of trust, in all of which he acquitted time of his retirement, acquiring a handsome himself with honor. He was also a member fortune in that period. He has always taken of the Society of Friends, in which he was much pride in the advancement and develop- an earnest and consistent worker. He was a ment of the interests of Bucks County, and man of unblemished character and the great- has liberally supported many enterprises and

est reliance was placed in him by his fellow- measures tending to that end. At the present citizens without fear that their confidence time he is a director of the Farmers' National would be betrayed. Kind and gentle in man- Bank of Bucks County, president of the Bris- ner, sympathetic and charitable in disposi- tol Improvement Co., and has been treasurer

tion, he always lent his aid to those not so of the William Penn Mutual I^oan & Build- 54 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

ing Association since the time of its organi- truck and, as he lived near Philadelphia,

zation in 1873. He is also president of the hauled his produce to the markets of that Tullytown Borough Council. city where good prices were always obtain-

On the 7th of February, 1867, he was able. Gardening continued to be his occu- joined in hymeneal bonds with Elizabeth pation until 1880, when he retired from the

Headley, a daughter of Edward and Eliza active duties of life, and in 1886 moved to Headley, by whom he has the following chil- Falls township to spend his latter days with

dren : Franklin, born February 27, 1 868, de- our subject. The spirit of Mr. Dickel was

ceased ; El wood, born August 2, 1870, de- called from earth in 1888, at the age of ceased ; Horace H., born March 30, 1877 ; and eighty-seven. He was united in marriage A. Russell, born July 17, 1881. Politically, with Eliza Brady, a native of England, and he is a Republican, whilst in religious faith this union was productive of the following

fellowship is and he a member of the Society children : Harriet (L,ovett) resides in Phila- of Friends. delphia ; Louisa (Miller) also lives in Phila-

delphia ; Emma (Morton); Anna (Coller), de-

ceased ; Henry C. John B. , who is resident ; a

of l/ong Branch, N. J. ; and William L,., de- rfy)i"ENRY C. DICKEL is one of the ceased. Mr. Dickel in politics was an old- well-to-do gardeners of Penn Valley, line Whig, but in religious views, he and Falls township, Bucks County, his family favored the Lutheran Church. Pa., and hauls his produce to the markets of The mother of our subject entered the world

Trenton, N. J. He was born in Kensington, of rest at the age of sixty-eight years. Philadelphia County, Pa., the date of his Henry C. Dickel acquired a good, practical birth being June 19, 1841, and he is a son of education in the schools of his native place, John B. and Eliza (Brady) Dickel. and early in life began to learn the trade of The founder of this well-known and pros- a blacksmith ; at the breaking out of the perous family in the United States was the Civil War our subject began working for the grandfather of our subject, John Dickel, who Government at Washington, D. C. Two was born and reared in Germany, and who years later he went to City Point, Va., where immigrated to this country and located in he pursued his trade until the war was Philadelphia. John B. Dickel, the father of brought to a close ; the next year was spent our subject, born in was that city, and his at Frankford, Pa, where he continued his boyhood days were spent working on a farm chosen vocation. He then engaged in gar- in Falls township, Bucks County, which was dening at Baltimore, Md., and, after remain- owned by his aunt. began to He work on ing there two and a half years, in 1869 his own account after soon attaining his moved to Falls township, this county, and majority; moving to Kensington, he pur- located on his father's farm and began to chased a farm and began raising garden carry on gardening, disposing of his produce BUCKS COUNTY 55

at the Trenton markets. He soon afterwards of his birth is January 23, 1827, and he is a purchased his father's farm, and in 1896 son of Charles and Lydia (Headley) Wise. bought the farm just across the road from Charles Wise was born in Philadelphia, his first purchase, and has since carried on where his father had lived the greater part gardening with marked success. Mr. Dickel of his active days. Charles possessed a good is well known throughout Bucks County, education, which he received in the public

and is greatly respected by the citizens of schools ; in his early manhood he left the his community. city, and, coming to Bucks County, located In the year 1867, Mr. Dickel was united in Falls township, where he purchased the in the bonds of wedlock with Mary E. Mc- farm now in the possession of our subject. Gurk, a native of Baltimore, and as a result Farming was his occupation, and he success- of this marriage the following children were fully carried on that independent calling all reared : Eliza is the wife of William Dun- his life. His spirit was called from earth at bracco of Falls township, and they are the the age of seventy-eight years, and his de- parents of three children. May, Edith, and mise was deeply lamented by a host of friends, Mary E. John H. wedded Carrie Paff, and who knew him to be a good citizen and an ; they reside in Falls township ; Emma H. is excellent neighbor. He was united in the the wife of John Braley, and they live in bonds of wedlock with Lydia Headley, a

Mercer County, N. J., and are the parents of daughter of Joseph Headley, who was a pros- one daughter, Irene ; George R. ; Henry C, perous farmer of Falls township. She en-

Jr.; Clara M.; Charles M.; William K.; and tered the world of rest at the age of fifty- Henrietta. Religiously, Mr. Dickel and four. Seven children resulted from this

family are prominent members of the Pres- happy union, namely : Joseph ; Thomas, de-

Church. Fraternally, our subject ceased ; Amos, deceased ; Charles, deceased byterian ; is a member of Bristol I^odge, No. 25, F. & and William, our subject, were twins John, ;

A. M., and the South Trenton Lodge, No. deceased ; and Rebecca (Everitt), who resides

36, I. 0. O. F. In politics, our subject sup- in Mason County, Illinois. Our subject's ports the Republican party, but he is a busy father took au active interest in the politics man and has no time to spend in seeking of his community, strongly upholding the office. principles of the Whig party in his early days and later those of the Republican party. He served his fellow-citizens as school direc-

'lIvIvIAM WISE is a typical repre- tor a number of years. w>sentative of the agricultural class William Wise, the subject of this brief no- of Bucks County, Pa., and is located on a tice, was intellectually trained in the district fine and productive farm in Falls township, schools of his native township, and spent the near the village of Tullytown, where he was most of his boyhood days assisting his father in the cultivation of the farm, thus acq^uiring born and was reared to manhood ; the date ;

56 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

a good education in farming. Our subject has resided a number of years, finally moving to always resided on the old homestead, of which Tamaqua, Pa., where he opened up the first he became the owner at his father's death, bakery in the borough. In addition to con- and general farming is his principal occupa- ducting a bakery he was proprietor of a tion. Our subject is an honor to his vocation, hotel, the first one in the place. Mr. Beck and is regarded as one of the most enterprising was well known throughout the county, and and progressive farmers of Falls township > for a number of years was captain of a com- he is well known throughout his section of pany of the state militia, which he organized the county, and is highly esteemed by all with and which was composed of Germans. Dur- whom he is bound by ties of local interest. ing the Civil War he served in the Union Mr. Wise is strictly upright in all his dealings, Army for a term of nine months. Ten years and courteous to all, and those who know prior to the death of our subject's father, he him repose in him unbounded confidence. retired from active business and spent his Politically, Mr. Wise is an ardent Repub- latter days in comfort and happiness. The lican, and votes and works conscientiously demise of this well-known and highly es- with that party. He has served one term as teemed gentleman occurred in 1894, and was county director of the poor, and was honored, deeply deplored by a host of acquaintances. in 1880, by his party with the nomination Mr. Beck was joined in the bonds of matri- for the State Legislature. mony with Caroline Boehler, and she entered

the world of rest in 1 876 at the age of fifty- two. As a result of this union the following children were born: Lewis, deceased; Caro- SCAR F. BECK. This well-to-do line (Scheid), who resides at Tamaqua, Pa.; and enterprising citizen of the vil- Emelia ; Laura ; and Oscar F. , the subject of lage of Morrisville, Pa., has been this personal history. Religiously, Mr. and connected with the Goodyear Vulcanite Co. Mrs. Beck were prominent members of the since the year 1886, and is the eflBcient fore- Lutheran Church. Mr. Beck took an active, man of the stock department of that well- interest in politics, was a stanch supporter known company. He was born in the borough of the Democratic party, and was frequently of Tamaqua, Pa., August 4, 1862, and is a son delegated to county conventions. of Captain Lewis and Caroline (Boehler) Beck. The subject of this notice received his ele- The Beck family is of German origin, and mentary training in the common schools of its founder in this country was Captain Lewis his native village, and at an early age served Beck, who was born in Freiburg, Germany, an apprenticeship to the machinist's trade in 1822, and who emigated to the United at twenty-one years of age he went to New States in 1848. His first work in this coun- York City, where he found employment in a try was on the Lehigh Canal, and from there tin -foil works, and worked in that city some he drifted to the city of Reading, where he three years. In 1886 he moved to Morris-

RICHARD RANDOLPH PARRY. BUCKS COUNTY 59

ville, Pa., to take charge of the tin depart- Stirling, held New Hope (then named "Cor- ment of the Goodyear Vulcanite Co., and yell's Ferry ") in a state of armed defense after remaining in that capacity about two with earth-work and redoubt against the stated in "Wash- years he was advanced to be foreman of the British troops ; and here, as stock department, his present position. Mr. ington and his Generals," Lord Stirling again

Beck is a conscientious worker, and has not signalized himself by his successful defense only won the confidence and respect of his of "Coryell's Ferry."

superior officers, but of those also who are On October 11, 1866, Mr. Parry was mar- under his charge. ried in St. Luke's Protestant Episcopal

Mr. Beck chose for his life companion Church, Portland, Maine, to Miss Ellen L. Phebe Garman, a daughter of Jacob Garman, Reed, daughter of Rufus and Martha (Ger- of Morrisville, and they were happily united rish) Reed, of Portland, and granddaughter in the bonds of wedlock in the year 1891. of Hon. Joseph M. Gerrish, who was at one

Fraternally, our subject is a member of the time a representative in the Maine Legisla- Patriotic Order Sons of America. ture, and was a large land-holder at Portland.

Our subject has three children : Gertrude R.,

Adelaide R. ; and Oliver Randolph, born tICHARD RANDOLPH PARRY. March 29, 1873. ^'^- Parry is a man of

This gentleman, of New Hope bor- literary tastes and historical interests ; and has ^^ ough, Bucks County, Pa., the frequently contributed articles to the press, second son of Oliver Parry, Esq. , and his wife and published works. He is a member of the Rachel Randolph Parry, was born in Phil- Bucks County Historical Society and a life adelphia December 5, 1835. He was edu- member of the Historical Society of Pennsyl- cated in private schools, and at Haverford vania. He is also a member of the Society of College, Pa., and resided at Mankato, Minn., the Sons of the Revolution, and a companion from 1856 to 1861, inclusive, in which place of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion he was engaged in the banking business. In of the United States, Commandery of Pennsyl- " Neill's " History of the Minnesota Valley vania. He is senior warden of St. Andrew's he is mentioned as one of the early pioneers Protestant Episcopal Church, Lambertville, of the valley. In 1861 Mr. Parry returned to N. J., and for a number of years past has been Pennsylvania to live. He resides in the president of the New Hope Delaware Bridge "Old* Parry Mansion" in New Hope bor- Company, which was formerly a banking ough, erected for his ancestor, Benjamin corporation as well as bridge company, char-

Parry, in 1784. Two different portions of tered, A. D. 1 8 1 2, by the states of New Jersey this estate were occupied by the Continental and Pennsylvania. troops in December, 1776, just prior to the The father of Richard Randolph Parry, battle of Trenton, when General William Oliver Parry, gentleman, of Philadelphia Alexander, more commonly known as Lord and Bucks County, Pa., was born at the ; . ; ;

6o BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

trumpets fired the angry mood "Old Parry Mansion" in Bucks County on Where drums and ; With honors rife, and garments rolled in blood. December 20, 1794, and died at his city resi-

it thine to know, dence in Philadelphia, February 20, 1874. Another warfare was A strife more arduous with an inward foe. of He was born a member of the Society To know a victory over wrong desire, Friends, and lived and died in the faith, In warfare, marked by a consuming fire.

life walking through with a singleness and May we not hope a conqueror in this field, direct honesty of purpose that made the name Did Edward Randolph know his foes to yield O'er the last enemy, victorious prove. of Oliver Parry synonymous with truth and Through Him who lent the armory of Love. honor. He was in his day a most active and The final combat ended, loosed amain useful citizen, and owned large tracts of valu- The passport gained, through struggling, and able land. He and his nephew and partner through pain in business, Nathaniel Randolph, owned Safely we trust, thy weary feet have pressed Through swelling Jordan, to the land of rest. much of the famous "Bush Hill Estate" in

the now built-up portion of Philadelphia, Oliver Parry had four sons : Major Edward

and which was the residence of Governor Randolph ; Richard Randolph, the subject of

Hamilton in colonial times. It was to these this article ; Dr. George Randolph, and

two that the city of Philadelphia is indebted Oliver Paxson. The eldest. Major Edward for the improvements on "Bush Hill," for Randolph Parry, of the United States Army, they transformed what was once a barren was born at the "Old Parry Mansion," in

waste or vast gullies into one of the hand- New Hope, Pa., July 27, 1832, and died

' somest neighborhoods in the ' City of there on April 13, 1874. He was one of the

Brotherly L,ove." On May i, 1827, Oliver few officers of the Regular Army from Bucks Parry married Rachel Randolph, daughter of County during the Civil War. In May, 1861,

Captain Edward F. Randolph, a patriot of he entered the army as first lieutenant in the 1776, who commanded the outlying guard at nth U. S. Inf., and served throughout the the " Massacre of Paoli," where he was des- war with credit. In 1864 he was made a perately wounded and left upon the field for captain in the nth; afterward transferred to

dead. He fought in many of the principal the 20th ; and on the re-organization of the battles of the Revolutionary War, and his army was promoted to the position of major portrait hangs upon the walls of the Histori- for gallant services. He was in the terrible cal Society of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia. fighting along the line of the Weldon Rail- Later in life Captain Randolph became a road, and in the engagements before Peters- prominent member of the Society of Friends, burg, commanding his regiment in several and the following verses, written by the late actions. In 1865 he was assistant adjutant- Joseph Kite, author and editor of "The general of the Regular Brigade, Army of the Chair," after Arm were published his death : Potomac, and served upon the staff of General Winthrop, when that able officer killed. Strong in thy will and purpose, earlier life was Saw thee a combatant in martial strife At Lee's surrender he was attached to army BUCKS COUNTY 6i

headquarters. In 1868 Major Parry com- vania, Philadelphia. Oliver Paxson Parry, manded Forts Jackson and St. Philip, at the the fourth son of Oliver Parry, was born mouth of the Mississippi River, and Fort June 20, 1846, and died December 13, 1852,

Ripley, in Minnesota, in 1 869. He resigned in his seventh year. Oliver Parry, the on account of ill health in 1 87 1 . His portrait elder, his wife, Rachel Randolph Parry, and is on the walls of the Bucks County Histori- his sons. Major Edward Randolph Parry,

cal Society. Major Parry married, December U. S. Army, and Dr. George Randolph Parry,

17, 1863, Frances Dimick, daughter of Gen. are all buried in the family lot in the Friends' Justin Dimick, U. S. Army. His wife and Solebury Burying Ground, Bucks County, daughter, Catherine, survive him other Pa. ; two children, daughters, died young, one (Rachel) Benjamin Parry, Esq., the grandfather of our

at Fortress Monroe, Va., and the other (Mary) subject, was born March i, 1757, and died at at Camp Grant, Richmond, Va. the "Old Parry Mansion" November 22, Dr. George Randolph Parry of New Hope, 1839. He was a very prominent citizen of

Bucks County, Pa., third son of Oliver Parry, Bucks County, whither he had come, in 1784,

was born September 3, 1839, in Philadelphia, from that portion of Philadelphia County

and was educated in private schools of that that is now included in Montgomery County, city. He began the study of medicine in the settling at Coryell's Ferry, by which name Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, from the locality of New Hope borough was then which he graduated in the class of 1862. In known. He was the original promoter of 1864 he entered the Medical Department of the New Hope Delaware Bridge enterprise, the University of Pennsylvania, and was and a member of the first board of directors

graduated in 1 867. For some years he prac- in 1812; in 1898, eighty-six years later, we ticed his profession in Cayuga County, N. Y. find the family still connected with this On returning to Pennsylvania in 1880 he ancient corporation, Richard Randolph Parry, located at New Hope, living at the " Old grandson of Benjamin Parry, being president

Parry Mansion" until his death, June 12, of the Company at the present time (1898).

1893. He enjoyed a large practice, and died In 1 8 10 he invented the well-known kiln- much esteemed and lamented. He married drying process, and was largely engaged in Elizabeth Van Etten, of Cayuga County, exporting corn meal to the West Indies and countries. Besides being the N. Y., whom he survived twelve years ; they other tropical the linseed oil factory at New had two children : Elizabeth Randolph and proprietor of Jane Paxson, the latter now deceased. Dr. Hope, he owned mills for the manufacture of Parry was a member of the medical societies varied products, both at New Hope and in of Bucks County, Pa., and Hunterdon Coun- Amwell township, N. J., the latter being of the called the "Prime Hope Mills." He also ty, N. J , and was also a member Bucks County Historical Society, and a life had an interest in a warehouse and store in member of the Historical Society of Pennsyl- New Hope with his brothers, Thomas, 62 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

varied extensive David and Daniel. At that time the Parry useful inventions ; of and public-spirited, and took deep family owned much of what was then New reading ; was Hope. Benjamin Parry was senior member interest in all that would improve his neigh- of the firm of B. Parry & Co., a partner in borhood or the county. His death was a Parry & Cresson, and was also connected in serious loss to the community." His por- Philadelphia with the old flour commission trait hangs on the walls of the Bucks County house of Timothy Paxson & Co., of which his Historical Society. relative, Mr. Paxson, one of the executors The father of the above-mentioned Benja- named in the will of the famous Stephen min Parry was John Parry, styled of " Moor- Girard, was the head. Benjamin Parry mar- land Manor," who was born in Montgoniery ried, on November 4, 1787, Jane Paxson, County, Pa., July 25, 172 1, and died there daughterof Oliver Paxson, the elder of "Ma- November 10, 1789. He was active in gen-, ple Grove," in New Hope borough, Bucks eral affairs, and was an elder in the Society County, Pa., descended from the ancient and of Friends. On September 21, 1751, he honorable family of Paxsons of Oxfordshire married Margaret Tyson, daughter of Derick and Bucks County, England. The first and Ann Tyson, and granddaughter of Rey- ancestor of the Paxson family in America nier Tyson, who came to America in 1683 was James Paxson, who came from England from Crefeld, Germany, and settled at Ger- to America in the ship Samuel in 1682, with mantown. Pa., of which borough he was his brothers, William and Hon. Henry Pax- twice elected chief burgess. He afterwards son of "Bycot House," Oxfordshire. Jane moved to Montgomery County, Pa., where Paxson Parry, wife of Benjamin Parry, died he became possessed of a large estate. at Philadelphia May 13, 1826, and he sur- The father of John Parry of " Moorland vived her until 1839. Their children were : Manor," and great -great-grandfather of our Oliver, noted above, born in 1794; and Ruth, subject, was Thomas Parry, of Montgomery Jane and Margaret. Of the daughters, only County, Pa., born in Caernarvonshire, Wales, Margaret married, her husband being Charles in 1680, and died in Montgomery County,

Buckman Knowles, of Bucks County ; they Pa., 1. in 175 In 17 1 5 he married Jane Mor- never had children. Benjamin Parry and ris, of an early and distinguished colonial all his children, as well as his son-in-law, family, and ten children were born to them. C. B. Knowles, lie buried in the family lot Thomas Parry was a large landholder, and in the Friends' Solebury Burying Ground, is recorded as owning over 1000 acres of land Bucks County, Pa. Benjamin Parry was in Montgomery County, a part of which was fond of study, and his reading covered a wide the "Moorland Manor" tract, owned later by range. General Davis' " History of Bucks his son, John Parry. County, Pa.," says of him at page 683 that The Parrys of Caernarvonshire, North " he was a man of considerable scientific Wales, a family that in point of antiquity attainment, having patented one or more takes rank with the most ancient in the king- —

BUCKS COUNTY 63

dom, belonged to the nobility. Their coat the Continental Army in full array as it of arms may be found in Burke's "General entered into or was driven from New Jersey. Armory of England, Scotland and Ireland," The whole section about New Hope abounds published in L,cndon in 1842, and is thus in historic incidents connected with Colonial

given : Arms—vert—a stag trippant—Ppr. and Revolutionary days. At the time of for Parry; Crest—a war charger's head and the Revohition, New Hope was known as neck, argent. Lord Richard Parry, Bishop "Coryell's Ferry," and many letters from of St. Asaph from 1604 to the time of his Washington and others of his prominent death, in 1623, was of this family. Col- generals were dated from there. Upon vari- onel Geoffrey Parry, a cadet of this family, ous occasions throughout the war, troops were married Margaret Hughes of Cefn Llanfair, quartered there, and at the time of the battle and their son, I/Ove Parry, Esq., of Wanfqur, of Trenton the whole district was held by was high sheriff of Caernarvonshire in 1685. the Continental forces. New Hope, itself, The latest named married Ellen Wynn, was then in a state of armed defense, under daughter and heiress of Hugh Wynn of Pen- General William Alexander, better known as

arth, by wliom he is believed to have had Ivord Stirling, who threw up a strong redoubt two sons, Ivove Parry, Esq., and Thomas on top of the hill, across the pond in a south- Parry, gentleman, the great-great-grandfather westerly direction from the "Old Parry of our subject. A descendant of Colonel Mansion" and a part of that estate. Lord Geoffrey Parry, Sir lyove Jones Parry, of Stirling also had another redoubt thrown up " Madryn Castle " in Caernarvonshire (born on the Old York Road, at the corner of

in 1781), was a general in the British Army Bridge and Ferry streets, opposite where at the battle of Waterloo. "The Washington Tree" stood. These,

The vicinity of New Hope borough is together with stockade entrenchments and very rich in items of historical interest, for batteries placed just above and below the the Revolutionary struggles of the War of ferry landing, on the river bank, north and constituted Independence happened all around, and often south of the Old York Road, the soldiers would make the district their camp- defenses of New Hope, in 1776, against what ing grounds for a season.. In 1893 the old General Washington evidently anticipated British historic chestnut tree, known as "The an advance movement of the Army Washington Tree" was cut down to make at that time. The old hip-roof house near Old Fort," and is way for improvements. It had stood for 150 by was known as "The headquar- years upon the Paxson estate, a few feet to said to have been Lord Stirling's Hope. the north of the Old York Road, in New ters when he was defending New met Lord Stirling and Hope borough. It measured 22 feet in cir- There Washington under "The Washing- cumference, and though many of its limbs General Greene, and they first are said to have planned were dead, it still furnished abundant shade. ton Tree" battle of Trenton. Washington had his Before it, on many an occasion, there passed the ,

64 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

own headquarters a few miles below New over on September 13th of that year. Its Hope, at the Keith homestead, and probably cost was #67,936.37, |2, 800.00 of which was halted under the ancient tree to confer with subscribed in New Jersey, and the balance I/Ord Stirling on more than one occasion. in Pennsylvania. The Bridge Company was

On Christmas, 1776, the Continental troops chartered in Pennsylvania and New Jersey,

marched down the Old York Road into the January 12, 181 2, mainly through the un- Trenton Road thereby passing the " Old tiring efibrts of Benjamin Parry, Hon. Samuel Parry Mansion " on two sides, and down the D. Ingham and their associates. Banking Trenton Road with hurrying steps to a point privileges were a part of the franchise of the on the river now known as " Washington's company, and a bank was conducted either Crossing." Crossing the river in boats that in New Hope or lyambertville for many

night, the next morning found them attack- years. Subsequently it failed, wrecking ing the Hessians at Trenton, and fighting the company, and causing the judicial sale the memorable engagement that has passed of the property by receivers. After pass-

into history as the battle of Trenton. Many ing through other hands, it came into the of the boats used had been collected at New possession of Samuel Grant, Esq., of Phila-

Hope, and secreted behind Malta Island, delphia, Pa., through whose heirs it was whence they were floated down under cover purchased by the present Bridge Com- of the night to the crossing-place. lyord pany. The east half of the original struc- Cornwallis had been informed of the boats ture was carried away by the great freshet of being collected, and had sent troops to Lam- it January 8, 1841 ; was rebuilt, but not so bertville, N. J., to seize them, but the sol- substantially as the old part. In Mr. Grant's diers were evidently afraid to risk a crossing time it had become very twisted and strained ; to the Pennsylvania shore in the face of the he had it thoroughly overhauled and strength- frowning batteries at New Hope. General ened. The present Bridge Company has Benedict Arnold, the traitor, was at New done much to improve its property by liberal

Hope (" Coryell's Ferry") on June 16, 1777, expenditures for laying iron tramways, etc. and wrote General Washington from there, etc. The executive staff of the Bridge Com- and on July 29, 1777, we find Alexander pany (1898) consists of Richard Randolph Hamilton, then a captain of artillery, who Parry, president John S. Williams, ; secre- was killed by Aaron Burr in their memora- tary and treasurer ; directors : Charles Crook, ble duel, writing to Robert Morris from the M. A. Marjarum, J. S. Studdiford, William same place. Col. James Monroe, afterwards H. Closson, John S. Williams and Carroll R. President of the United States, was quar- Williams. The president of the company, tered in December, 1776, on the Neely farm, the subject of this sketch, is the grandson of just below New Hope. Benjamin Parry, to whom, more than any

The New Hope Delaware Bridge was com- other person, the bridge owes its existence. pleted in 1 8 14, and the first wagon driven The New Hope Delaware Bridge Company ;

BUCKS COUNTY 65

' acquired the vested rights of ' Coryell's Henry S. Morris was born and reared on his Ferry" in 18 12, and this purchase gave the father's homestead in Bristol, and was edu-

Bridge Company control of navigation for cated to agricultural pursuits, but never fol- one mile either way from the bridge. lowed that vocation after attaining manhood. The publishers of this volume take plea- He was a lad of thirteen years when his sure in announcing that there is presented father died, and early in life he began to learn on a preceding page an excellent likeness of a trade as a means of obtaining a livelihood our subject, Richard Randolph Parry, exe- he chose the trade of a carpenter and under-

cuted from a portrait taken in 1 894. taker and followed the same all his life ; during the latter days of his life he gave up carpentering and devoted his entire attention to his undertaking business. He resided in 'ESSE MORRIS, a prominent and ener- Lower Makefield township a few years, but getic business man of Morrisville, Pa., after his marriage he became a resident of

is successfully engaged in the under- Morrisville, where he resided until death

taking business in that village, having con- claimed him, which was in 1 881, at the age d acted his father's old stand since 1881, of sixty-eight. In 1835 ^r- Morris was his father dying in the spring of that year. united in marriage with Ellen Wright, of This highly esteemed gentleman was born in Bristol, and she passed from this life on Jan-

Lower Makefield township, Bucks County, uary 5, 1866, at the age of fifty-four years,

the date of his birth being October 24, 1841, one month and twenty-five days. Seven

and he is a son of Henry S. and Ellen (Wright) children resulted from this union, two of Morris, and grandson of Jesse and Jane whom died in infancy; the others were: Mary (Bailey) (Smith) Morris. J. (Barber), deceased ; Elner (Scar- borough), deceased Jesse, the gentleman Jesse Morris, the grandfather of our subject, ; resided near the village of Bristol the major whose name appears at the head of this brief (Heston), deceased and Elias part of his active days, and his vocation was notice ; Emma ; A., deceased. Religiously, Mr. Morris and his that of a farmer ; he is known to have owned wife were members of the Methodist Church a large estate near the village. As a result ; of his marriage with Miss Jane Smith, a politically, he was an ardent Republican, family of four children was reared, namely: Jesse Morris received a liberal education in

Henry S., the father of our subject; Benja- the common schools of his native township Morrisville, his father having moved min, Ann Eliza (Coneley) ; and Phineas. and at After the death of her husband she formed a to the latter place when our subject was but second alliance with Jacob Vanhart, and four a mere boy. Our subject served an appren- cliildren were born to them, all of whom are ticeship to the carpenter and cabinetmaker's now deceased. Our subject's grandmother trade in his father's shop ; later he learned was over eighty years of age when she died. the profession of an undertaker, and in i88i :

66 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

took charge of the business and has conducted to pay his passage across the Atlantic, and the same up to the present time. Mr. Morris after seven long years of constant labor he has built up a large trade by his strict atten- succeeded in raising the necessary amount, tion to business, and commands the respect and, in 1836, he left his native land, and, after and good-will of the entire community. a voyage of nine weeks, landed in Philadel- Mr. Morris was wedded in 1864 to Hannah phia. He soon found employment in the W. Slack, a daughter of Isaac and Maria village of Bustleton, and by the exercise of (Woolston) Slack, of Fallsington, Pa., and to economy succeeded in acquiring enough this happy union one child was born : Kath- money with which to purchase a farm, and erine (Fabian), and she has three children by the time of his death he was the owner of

Jesse, Mary and Maud. Politically, our subject a large estate. Farming was his life voca- firmly supports the principles of the Republi- tion, in which occupation he was very suc- can party ; religiously, he and his family are de- cessful. He was united in marriage with voted members of the Methodist Church. Fra- Adeline Harper, a daughter of William Har-

ternally, Mr. Morris is a member of the South per, a prominent farmer of Fox Chase ; she

Trenton Lodge, No. 36, I. O. O. F. ; and the died at the age of seventy-three. She was a K. of P., Delaware Falls I/odge, No. 340. highly educated lady, and had taught school at Abington during her younger days. To

this union the following children were born : Edward, a practicing physician of Somerton, TT^HARIvES H. HUMPHREYS, who Pa.; Charles H., the subject of this brief

I has been engaged in railroad life notice and is jp ; Henry, who engaged in farm- ^»ii ^ since 1883, and who is well known ing near the village of Somerton. Politically, to patrons and employees of the Pennsylvania Mr. Humphreys was a strong Republican, Railroad in Bucks County, is now station and served as school director of the town- at Morrisville, Pa., in agent which capacity ship ; religiously, he and his family were he has acted since April, 1892. He is also identified with the Baptist Church. Mr. one of the progressive and enterprising citi- Humphreys passed from this earth in 1896, zens of the village, and is held in high esteem and his death was mourned by a large circle by the citizens of his community. He was of acquaintances, who held him in high born in the village of Fox Chase, Philadel- esteem ; he may well be classed among the phia County, Pa., the date of his birth being self-made men of Philadelphia County, for March 9, 1859. he landed in this country with but seventy- Humphrey Humphreys, our subject's father, five cents in his -pocket, and by his own was born in Marty rtidvil, Wales, in 182 1, and perseverance and untiring energy succeeded in his boyhood days formed the resolution to in acquiring a handsome estate. come to America to live ; he accordingly Charles H. Humphreys received his prim- went to work to secure the necessary funds ary education at home, being instructed by

BENJAMIN J. TAYLOR. BUCKS COUNTY 69

his mother ; later he attended the Millersville landing where Burlington, N. J., is now lo- State Normal School, near Lancaster, Pa. cated. He was one of the proprietors of West He also assisted his father in the labors about New Jersey and owned one thirty-second part the farm during his boyhood days, and carried of seven undivided nineteenth parts. In the on agricultural pursuits until 1883. In that spring of 1678, he settled upon 1200 acres in year he took to railroading, becoming assist- Chesterfield township, Burlington County,

ant agent at Chestnut Hill for the Pennsyl- N. J., the whole of which remained in the and vania Railroad ; from there he was promoted family until a recent day, a large portion

to -agent at Highland Street, where he re- of which is still in their possession. To his mained for a period of five years. On March second son, Robert Taylor, he gave a 500 II, 1892, he was promoted to his present acre tract, which is now known as the Brook-

position as agent at Morrisville, this county dale farm ; from him it passed to his son ;

he is well known along the line by the rail- Anthony, the great-grandfather of our subject, road boys, who hold him in high esteem. and then to the latter' s son, Michael.

Mr. Humphreys is also agent for the New Anthony Taylor was a soldier of the Rev- patriot. York Horse Manure Co. , and carries on quite olutionary War, and was an ardent an extensive business in that line in his He died in 1785. His third son, Anthony section. Taylor, was the grandfather of our subject.

Mr. Humphreys was united in the bonds He was born on the Brookdale farm in 1 772, of matrimony, in 1882, with Ella Heritage, and in 1789 was apprenticed to John Thomp- a daughter of Joseph Heritage, of Bustleton, son, an extensive shipping merchant of Phil-

Pa. Fraternally, our subject is a member of adelphia. In 1793 he entered in the same

the Bristol Lodge, No. 25, F. & A. M. He line of business in partnership with Thomas

is a supporter of the Republican party, but Newbold, under the firm name of Taylor & has never sought political distinction. Newbold. In 1808 he purchased 200 acres of land in Bristol township, Bucks County, which he named "Sunbury," and used for a country-seat for a time. Upon retiring from

business in 18 10, he located upon it and made pjENJAMIN J. TAYLOR, president Ov of the Farmers' National Bank of it his home for the remainder of his life. He Bucks County and a prominent took great interest in farming, and was the

business man of Bristol, is descended from an largest land-owner in the county. Upon old and prominent family in Eastern Penn- the failure of the Farmers' Bank of Bucks sylvania and the state of New Jersey. The County, then located at Hulmeville, he with capital earliest ancestor of whom there is any record the co-operation of others restored its it to be removed to Bristol. He is Samuel Taylor, husbandman of the parish and caused of Doare, County of Derbyshire, England. was elected president and continued as such In 1802 In the summer of 1677, he came to America, until his death in 1837. he was ;

70 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES joined in marriage with Mary Newbold, a but subsequently became a Republican. He daughter and the tenth child of Caleb New- was joined in Hymen's bonds with Elizabetli bold, of Springfield, N.J. She was descended Jones, a daughter of Benjamin Jones, Jr., of from Michael Newbold, who was a faithful Philadelphia, and they became the parents of of the member Society of Friends in Eng- five children : Benjamin J. ; Anthony; Robert land. left He his home at Newbold Manor, Fanny; and Alice J. Dr. Taylor died at County of Derbyshire, England, in 1680, and "Sunbury" farm in August, 1872, at the located in Springfield township, Burlington age of sixty-nine years, and was laid to rest

County, N. J., near the Taylor family, where in the burying ground of St. James the Eess he purchased 1000 acres of land. Anthony at Falls of Schuylkill, near Philadelphia. Taylor and his wife reared eleven children, Mrs. Taylor, who was born in April, 18 13, all of whom grew to maturity. Nine of them died January 29, 1893, at Bristol, Pa., aged survived him, and they were as follows: about eighty years.

Robert ; ; Sarah William ; Edward; Eawrence; Benjamin J. Taylor, the subject of this

Michael ; Caleb N. ; Thomas N. ; Emma personal history, was educated h. ; in the com- and Franklin. The family from Samuel mon schools and in the Episcopal Academy Taylor down have been conscientious mem- at Philadelphia, graduating from the latter bers and supporters of the Society of Friends. institution. He then engaged in mercantile Hon. Caleb Newbold Taylor, an uncle of pursuits in Philadelphia for a period of eight our subject, who attained much prominence years, after which he devoted most of his in political and business circles, was born on time looking after the affairs of others, acting the old homestead, "Sunbury," in Bristol in the capacity of business agent. He spent township, of which he in after years became his summers upon the farm at "Sunbury," the owner. He was a stanch Whig originally, and his winters in Philadelphia for some but in later years became a Republican, and years, but for the past six years he has resided after meeting defeat at the three previous in the borough of Bristol, although he calls elections, in 1866 he was elected to the United his home " Sunbury." He became a director States Congress, and was re-elected in 1868. of the Farmers' National Bank of Bucks also succeeded He his father as president of County at Bristol, and a few days later became the Farmers' National Bank of Bucks County vice-president of the same, being the first at Bristol. He remained unmarried through- and only vice-president that organization has out his entire life. ever had. Upon the death of Pierson Mitchell Dr. Robert Taylor, the father of our sub- in 1894, he succeeded him as president, thus ject, was born in Philadelphia in 1803, and making the third generation of the family as chose the medical profession as his life work. president of that bank. He is a man of good He lived in Philadelphia, then in Burling- business ability, shrewd and far-sighted, and ton County, and finally N. J., in Bristol. In is just the man desired at the head of such politics, he was a Democrat for some years, a business. He is also a man of honor and BUCKvS COUNTY 71

is highly respected by all with whom he is Taylor and his sister Alice are the owners of acquainted, both in business and social rela- the "Sunbury" farm, an estate consisting of tions. 400 acres of land, upon which is located a His brother, Anthony Taylor, served a full large and magnificent residence. Mr. Tay-

term of three years in the famous 15th Regi- lor's portrait is shown on another page in ment, Pennsylvania Cavalry, or the Anderson connection with this sketch.

Cavalry, as it was better known, and when mustered out held the rank of captain. In 1893 he was voted a medal by Congress for

his bravery while in the service. He actively R. ISAAC N. WOODMAN is the participated in the battles of Lookout Moun- leading physician and surgeon of tain and Stony Run, also in all other engage- Ji Morrisville, Pa., and as such en- ments in which his regiment took part. He joys the confidence and esteem of a large cir- served for a time on the staff of Maj.-Gen. cle of patrons in that place and scattered about

Rosecrans. His death occurred on May 21, in the surrounding country. The profes-

1 894. He was united in marriage with Caro- sional attainments of the Doctor are superior, line Johnson, a daughter of lyawrence John- and toward every one he manifests a kind son, of Philadelphia, and she survives him, and gentlemanly demeanor, which gives him living in Philadelphia. Two children blessed the good-will and respect of the entire com-

their union, namely: Mary Lawrence and munity. Our subject was born August 7, Elizabeth Elmslie. The former was married 1869, and is a son of Henry and Margaret to Bromley Wharton, of Philadelphia, who (Neall) Woodman, grandson of Henry and served in the United States Army against Mary (Smith) Woodman, and great-grandson Spain. He went out with the First City of Edward Woodman. Troop, Philadelphia Cavalry, which was sent Edward Woodman was a native of Eng- to Porto Rico, where he was promoted to land, and was the founder of this branch of second lieutenant of Battery C. Mr. and Mrs. the Woodman family in America, having Wharton have one daughter, Alice Taylor come here when about ten years of age, set- Wharton, and they live at "Sunbury," being tling in Maryland. At an early age he went the fifth generation of the family to make with a relief expedition to Daniel Boone in that their home. Kentucky, and when the Revolutionary War In 1863 our subject served for three months broke out he was one of the first to shoulder with the Grey Reserves, and was at the shell- arms in that mighty struggle for indepen- ing of Carlyle by Gen. Eitzhugh Lee, and dence, nor did he lay them down until the also saw service in Tennessee and Mississippi. freedom of the Colonies had been gained. For a time he was a volunteer aide on differ- He assisted in the erection of Fort Moultrie, immediately after went North and joined ent staflFs. He is now a member of the H. and Army, with which he remained Clay Beatty Post, G. A. R. Benjamin J. Washington's ; ;

72 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

throughout the seven years. Our subject has Henry Woodman, our subject's father, was a chair which was used by Gen. Washington born in Buckingham township, this county, at Valley Forge, when the army camped in 1836, and received his intellectual training through the winter there. After the war in the common schools of his native town- had been brought to a close Edward started ship. He was educated to agricultural pur- home, but was taken sick and stopped in Val- suits, which occupation he carried on on the ley Forge, and it was there that he met Miss homestead for a period of thirty years ; he Stevens, whom he afterwards wedded, and has since retired from the more active duties they resided there the rest of their life. They of life and is now residing with our subject

reared a family of five children, namely : at Morrisville. He was wedded with Mar- Ruth, Mary, Abigail, William and Henry. garet Neall, a daughter of Isaac Neall, a Henry Woodman, our subject's grand- prominent citizen of Philadelphia of his day, father, was born on the old Woodman home- and a family of five children blessed tlieir

stead, Christmas Day, 179S, and in early life home, namely : Edward ; Agnes (Gregg)

began teaching school in his native town- Isaac N., the subject of this sketch ; I,ewis

ship later his work drifted into that of a S., deceased; and Edith Our subject's ; L. conveyancer and surveyor, and the compass father is a strong temperance man, firmly

that was then used by him is now in the supporting the principles of the Prohibition

hands of Harvey Walker. Mr. Woodman party. Religiously, he is a member of the was joined in marriage in 1827 with Mary Society of Friends. Smith, a daughter of Benjamin Smith, of Dr. Isaac N. Woodman received his pri- Wrightstown, this county, and this union was mary education in the public schools of Con- blessed by the birth of the following chil- cord, Pa., and at the Friends' Schools at

dren : Benjamin ; Edward, deceased ; Mary lyanghorne, and later at ; Doylestown, Pa.

Henry, the father of our subject ; William He then tauglit school three years, and

Comly ; and Wilson. Our subject's grand- during this period, having already fixed his fatheir passed from this life in 1879, within aim on the medical profession, he was pre- one day of completing his eighty-fourth year. paring himself by judicious reading to prose- His wife entered the world of rest some three cute with credit his studies in that chosen years later, and they both lie buried in the field. Entering Hahnemann's Medical Col- old cemetery at Wrightstown. The parents lege of Philadelphia he was graduated in the of Henry were buried at Valley Friends class of '93, and immediately came to his Cemetery, at Valley Forge, and in that present field of practice. Our subject has noted graveyard lie the remains of a number met with the most flattering recognition of of Revolutionary officers and soldiers, whose his ability and wofth during his short resi- spirits were called from this earth during the dence in Morrisville, and has won golden encampment of Washington's Army in Val- opinions from all fair-minded men for his ley Forge in the winter of 1776-77. honorable and professional methods of treat- BUCKS COUNTY 73

ing all applications for his skilled assistance. engaged in agricultural pursuits. Martin, our His practice has grown phenomenally, and subject's grandfather, was also born in Ger- he can well lay claim to the largest practice many, and was but a mere lad, when his par- in the borough, and this practice is still ents came to this country. When Martin growing and extending its bounds. started out in life on his own account, he Dr. Woodman, in 1896, formed a matrimo located in Falls township, Bucks County, nial alliance with Matilda Blaker, a daughter where he took up a large tract of land, and of Achilles Blaker, of Wrightstown, Pa. The there he carried on general farming until his doctor is a member of the South Trenton death, which occurred in his fifty-eighth

Ivodge, No. I. F. 36, O. O. ; K. of P., Lodge year. He was united in marriage with Lucy No. O. A. 390 ; Jr. U. M., Lodge No. 915, of Silvers, a native of Delaware, who died at

Morrisville ; and is examiner for the Metro- the age of seventy years. The following politan Life Insurance Co. of New York. children blessed this union: Lydia; Margaret

(Cox); Mary (Haines) ; Catherine; and Martin, the father of our subject. Religiously, Mr. Mull and family were devoted members of ROBERT W. MULL, a retired mer- the Baptist Church.

chant who is residing in the village Martin Mull, Jr., was born on the home- m of Morrisville, Pa. , is a prominent stead in Falls township in 1792, and was and worthy representative of an old and reared to agricultural pursuits, which voca- highly respected family of Falls township, tion he followed throughout his entire life.

Bucks County, Pa. Prior to the year 1895, He passed from this life at the age of sixty- our subject conducted a general store in the two years. Mr. Mull was widely known village, but since that year he has been throughout his section of the county, was a spending his latter days in quiet and peace, man of considerable influence, and his advice enjoying the fruits of his early toil. This on public matters and on points of the law highly esteemed citizen is of German extrac- was often sought by his neighbors and action, and was born on the old Mull home- quaintances. In his religious views he was in Falls a Baptist, and was a regular attendant stead township, March 21, 1828 ; he and is a sop of Martin, Jr., and Lydia (Hance) supporter of the church of that denomination

Mull, grandson of Martin, St., and Lucy in Trenton, N. J. He was joined in marriage (Silvers) Mull, and great-grandson of Michael with Lydia Hance, a daughter of Ebenezer Mull. and Esther Hance of Falls township, and she Michael Mull was born in Germany, and at entered the world of rest at the ripe old age of an early age left his native land and sailed eighty-nine years. Our subject's parents were for the American shores, landing in Balti- blessed by the following children: Ebenezer,

more ; he did not remain there long, but a resident of Fallsington, this county ; Wil- moved to the state of Delaware, where he liam S., deceased; Lucy A. (Potts) resides in 74 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

his Washington, D. C. ; Stacy H., deceased ; and subject's son, Edwin Martin, has in pos-

Robert W., an account of whose life follows. session a large clock that was made in Ger- cherry, Robert W. Mull acquired a good education many ; the case is made of the wood in the district schools of Falls township, and being cut from a tree from his great-grand- was reared to agricultural pursuits, but never father's farm, and was brought to this country followed that vocation, for upon leaving by his great-grandfather. During the Revo-

school, which was in 1845, he began clerk- lutionary War this valuable old relic was

ing in a store in Morrisville; in 1850, he went buried in the woods to keep it from falling to the city of Philadelphia, where he clerked into the hands of the British. in a dry goods store for eight years. Having acquired much experience in that business, and having saved a large portion of his earnings, he decided to embark in the mercantile ILLIAM G. HOWELL. Conspicu- business on his own account, and accord- Wious among the leading business ingly, in 1858, he returned to Morrisville, men of Bucks County is the subject of this

and started a general store, conducting the biography, who is engaged in the real estate same until 1895, when he retired. and insurance business in the village of Mor- In the year 1855 our subject was wedded to risville, and who owns a large interest in a l/ouisa Hall, a daughter of Isaac and Susan flouring mill at Trenton, N. J., and is also Hall of Philadelphia, and this union was interested in many other enterprises in that

productive of the following children : Edwin thriving community. He is an active and

Martin, married Anna M. McGlathery, who energetic man, and is a good example of bore him one child, Nellie and Harry, ; en- what constant effort, constantly directed, can gaged in the drug business at Stewartstown, in a short time accomplish. This much re- Pa., who wedded Ivillie Bell, by whom he spected citizen was born and reared in Tren- reared one son, Robert M. Mr. Mull, fra- ton, N. J., the date of his birth being June ternally, is a member of Trenton Lodge, No. 17, 1844, and he is a son of James and Adaline 5, F. & A. M.; and South Trenton Lodge, (Gillingham) Howell, and grandson of Amos No. 36, I. O. O. F. He has also served as Howell. grand master of the state of New Jersey. Amos Howell lived in the Sixth Ward of Politically, he is a firm Republican, and has Trenton, N. J., and died there at the age of served as auditor county one term of three forty-eight years. He was joined in marriage years ; is now serving his second as term jus- with Emeline Wooley, who passed from this tice of the peace; and assistant was postmaster life aged sixty years, and to this marriage a of the village from Johnson's administration family of five children was born, namely : until the election of President Cleveland. William, Amos, Emeline, Jonathan and Religiously, he is an active member and lib- James. James Howell, the father of our eral supporter of the Episcopal Church. Our subject, was born in the Sixth Ward of :

BUCKS COUNTY 75

Trenton, and during his boyhood days learned started in the milling business under the

the trade of a cooper, in which occupation he name of Howell & Son. In 1 893 our subject did not long continue to busy himself, as he sold his interest to his brother, Charles W. entered the mercantile business in his native Howell, and devoted most of his time to

ward, and successfully carried on that line of milling ; in 1 882 he had built a mill along business for a period of fifteen years. At the the river in Trenton, and in 1886 he built an expiration of that time he purchased a tract elevator in Morrisville and conducted both

of land at Hidestown, and engaged in farm- until 1893, when the old river mill was aban-

ing some eight years ; he then became a resi- doned and the Trenton Mill built, in which

dent of Morrisville, Pa., and under the firm our subject is a large stockholder. Mr. name of Howell & Son embarked in the Howell owns considerable unimproved land, milling business, and carried on the same which he determined to improve and sell in

until his death, which occurred in 1886, at town lots, and through his efforts has devel-

the age of seventy-five years. He was wedded oped a good real estate business ; he is also to Adaline Gillingham, a daughter of William agent for a number of first-class insurance Gillingham of Morrisville, and six children companies. Mr. Howell's well-deserved suc-

blessed the home of this union, namely cess in life is what might have been expected

Gershom M. ; William G.,the subject of this from a man who combined an unusual amount

biographical sketch ; Charles W. (i) of energy with a certain amount of conserva- ; James

B. ; Charles W. (2) ; and George A., deceased. tiveness that never led him to indulge in ex- Politically, Mr. Howell was a stanch Demo- cesses or in untried projects. He is popular crat, and while a resident of Trenton took an and companionable, and counts his friends active part in the politics of that city. Re- by the score. In his dealings he is distin- ligiously, he was a member and deacon of guished by square and honest methods, and the Baptist Church. has conscientious scruples against taking the William G. Howell was intellectually least advantage of any one with whom he

trained for the battles of life in the public may chance to have business. In the com-

is schools of Trenton, N. J., and in a private munity at large he known as one of the school of Utica, N. Y., and later entered best citizens, whose every endeavor has been Eastman's Business College at Poughkeepsie, to bring about needed improvements, to N. Y. At twenty-one years he entered the elevate the moral tone, and keep it fixed at employ of Philip H. Wentz, of Trenton, as a high standard. bookkeeper, remaining in that gentleman's In 1870 Mr. Howell was wedded to Susanna employ some three years ; at the expiration Worthington, a daughter of Charles Worth- of that time he embarked in the mercantile ington of Tullytown, and they are the proud business in his native city and conducted the parents of five children, as follows : Marion, same three years; selling his store he re- deceased ; Walter M. ; Mabel W. ; Thirza A., moved to Morrisville, and with his father and Gershom M. Fraternally, our subject is 76 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

also owned a fine farm in a member of Fraternal lyodge, No. 436, F. agriculturist ; he & A. M., and South Trenton Lodge, No. Northampton township. He was twice mar- Mary Vanzant, by 36, I. O. O. F. Religiously, he is a member ried ; his first wife was of the Presbyterian Church politically, he whom he reared a family of two children, ; to is a solid Democrat, and served as a member namely : Charles, deceased, was wedded of the city council of Trenton a number of Julia Cornell ; and Thomas, deceased, was years, as burgess of Morrisville two terms, as united in marriage with Elizabeth Headley. school director, and in other local offices. His second marriage was with Ann Knight,

Mr. Howell is president of the Morrisville and this union was blessed by the birth of

Mechanics' Mutual Building & lyoan Asso- five children, as follows : Amos, who died

; is of ciation and was also one of its organizers ; he aged four years Rebecca the wife is vice-president of tlie Broad Street National Lamar Lean, a retired farmer, now residing Bank of Trenton, N. president of the Pa., and the mother of four J. ; at Dolington, Cannel Coal Co., and a director of the Tren- children— David, Mary, deceased, Etta and Fertilizer Co. resides in Philadelphia, and ton Bone Joseph ; Samuel

his wife is Louise Willard, and they are the parents of four children — David, Harold,

Horace and Mary, deceased ; Anna is the wife 'ONATHAN K. CORNEIvL. The of Samuel Willard, formerly proprietor of the

name Cornell is an old and familiar Temperance House, Newtown, and two chil- one in Bucks County, Pa., and for the dren have been born to them, Mary and past three generations the family, of which Cora; and Jonathan K., the subject of this the gentleman whose name heads these brief history. lines is a worthy representative, has been Jonathan K. Cornell, as did his brothers engaged in agricultural pursuits in North- and sisters, spent his early days under the ampton township, on the old. Cornell home- parental roof, during which time he attended stead. Jonathan K. Cornell was born on the the public schools of the vicinity, and later above homestead July i, 1850, and is a son of of Langhorne. After his marriage, he took David and Ann (Knight) Cornell. charge of the homestead and successfully Adrian Cornell was our subject's grand- prosecuted the calling of a farmer up to the father, and he also resided on the homestead. year 1887, when he retired from the active His wife was Rachel Feaster. The maternal duties of life. His homestead consists of 109 grandfather of our subject was Amos Knight, acres of land, which, under his immediate and he was a farmer of Southampton town- management, has been put under a fine state ship. David Cornell, the father of our of cultivation, now ranking among the best subject, was born on the homestead in North- in the township. He is a valued member of ampton township, where he resided all his his community, and by his upright dealings active career, pursuing the vocation of an and habits of thrift and industry has secured

NEWTON CROMWELL FETTER. BUCKS COUNTY 79

the confidence and esteem of his many ac- special historic honor their great-grandfather. quaintances. Rev. Thomas B. Montanye, (originally spelled

February 22, 1871, Mr. Cornell was united Montague) who was an eminent Baptist min-

in the bonds of matrimony with Hannah ister. The names of Montanye and Fetter Vansant, a daughter of Charles and Eveline on the father's side, and Cornell and Twining Vansant, of Ivanghorne, and she died Novem- on the mother's side, indicate French, Ger-

ber 29, 1 88 1, leaving a family of three chil- man, Dutch, and Welsh descent. Samuel

dren, namely : Annie, Rebie, the wife of Edmond Fetter, the father of our subject,

Howard Mitchell, who is engaged in farming engaged successfully, during his prime, in

in Middletown township ; and Harry. Our agricultural pursuits in Southampton and subject's second marriage was formed Decem- Warminster townships, this county, and is

ber 24, 1 890, with Emily Knight, daughter of now living retired. He was united in mar- Aaron and Hannah (Tomlinson) Knight, the riage with Jane Elizabeth Twining, Novem-

former of Philadelphia, and the latter a na- ber 20, 184s, and their home was blessed by tive of Southampton. Mr. Knight was a the birth of a family of six children, namely:

farmer, and died May 13, 1897; his wife is Newton Cromwell, the oldest ; George Camp- now living on the old homestead in South- bell, now a prominent real estate man of

ampton township. They reared three chil- Chicago ; Isaac Comley, a member of the a practicing dren, as follows : Deborah was wedded to Reading bar ; Eugene Chalmers,

Jacob Randall, and he, died in February, physician of Bustleton, Pa. ; Caroline L,ewars, Edwards, now residing at 1892, and she now lives in Bensalem ; Phcebe the wife of Stephen

died in May, 1 890, and was the wife of Richard Ivy land. Pa., and Janette Cornell, who died wife of our subject. at the age of fourteen years. Dolton ; and Emily, the

One child has blessed the union of Mr. and In early childhood . Mr. Fetter's father re-

Mrs. Cornell: May, born June 7, 1894, and moved from Southampton to Warminster died in infancy. In politics, our subject is a township, where, until seventeen years of Democrat, and has served one term as assessor. age, his son Newton worked on a farm with

little prospect of anything but a life of hard manual labor. The few short winter months spent at school each year were very attractive, -|^EWTON CROMWEI.L FETTER, because of fondness for learning, dread of I =i pastor of the First Baptist Church home drudgery, and the encouraging influ- and sympathetic teachers, among -L^ ^ of Doylestown, Pa. , was born on ence of wise V , _ his father's farm near Churchville, South- whom were the noted instructors, Lizzie ampton township, Bucks County, Pa., June Croasdale, Hugh Morrow and James Ander- the farm, owing to constant pres- 22, 1848, and is a son of Samuel Edmondand son. On Jane Elizabeth (Twining) Fetter. sure of work, little time was allowed for As the result of an As to ancestry, the, family regard with mental improvement. 8o BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

earnest request for an opportunity to study made easy and the labor of teaching reduced away from home, a term at the Millersville to a minimum. Other favoring circumstances

State Normal School was secured in the made it possible to save money enough to re- winter of 1865-66. This was the extent of enter the Normal School at Millersville the help received by Mr. Fetter toward the edu- next year. cation which he afterward gained mainly On returning to the Normal in the fall of through his own personal effort and the in- 1869, it was a question in the minds of the fluence of friends who took an interest in his faculty whether a student should be admitted purpose. At the close of the six months' whose health was so uncertain and whose session at Millersville, as the result of too general appearance indicated the danger of a sudden and severe exposure on the farm in death which might compromise the interests the spring of 1866, a severe cold was con- of the institution. The risk, however, was tracted which resulted in serious pulmonary taken, and the student's health watched until trouble lasting over two years. Cough, night- time and congenial surroundings had so re- sweats, and alarming hemorrhages led friends stored strength and vitality that the case was to feel that the issue would be fatal and no longer one of solicitude. The principal, speedy, but, encouraged by physicians and Dr. Edward Brooks, and other members of the reading of Dio Ivcwis, on " How to Make the faculty took special interest in the invalid Weak lyungs Strong," there was awakened student, and the following year he was given a hope and determination to get well if possi- a class or two to teach, which soon resulted ble. These long months of sickness were in his becoming a regular assistant in teach- utilized, so far as strength allowed, in the ing, which position he held until he gradu- study of Scripture, and in quietly poring ated with the highest class honors in 1872.

over Greek and algebra under Rev. I. C. His work as pupil-assistant more than covered Wynn, D.D., an able teacher and pastor who all cost of completing the Elementary, with generously gave much time to his pupil. parts of the Scientific and Classical courses. At length, weary of waiting for accustomed Being elected to full membership in the

health, and contrary to the judgment of phy- faculty upon graduating, Mr. Fetter re- sician and parent, our subject commenced mained two years as teacher of Latin and teaching in the fall of 1868, near Chestnut pedagogics, and also continued study. In Hill, Philadelphia, at a salary of forty dollars 1875, he decided to devote a year exclusively per month. This congenial employment and to the study of Greek and Latin ; it was his diversion of mind in a delightful and con- intention to take a special course at Harvard, siderate community proved more helpful but was induced by Dr. Wynn, his former than harmful, and the very fact of the preceptor, to read Greek under Dr. Trask, teacher's delicate condition gave him the President of South Jersey Institute, and sympathy of pupils and parents to such a Latin under Professor Rockwood, now of degree that the government of the school was Bucknell University. " At the end of the BUCKS COUNTY 8i

year he was called to the Chair of Ancient mind for solution. Having been brought Classics in the high school of Reading, Pa., up to believe that the church problem had and was also appointed one of the lecturers been solved in infancy through a form of in the normal course given on Saturday christening and consecration on the part of mornings before the teachers of the city. In parents, a little study and reflection on that the Berks County Teachers' Institute, 1876, point revealed the Unscripturalness and even Mr. Fetter presented " Inductive Methods of danger of an act which ignores the individual Teaching Grammar." As a teacher, Mr. will in the " Sacred Symbolism of the New Fetter's course brought yearly an advance Birth," and which deprives the church of a in position and pay, and, besides his regular voluntary witnessing for Christ on the part teaching, much time was given to private of young converts through the holy and pupils, which considerably supplemented his eloquent ordinance of baptism. salary. Although re-elected each year wher- After a long, careful and independent com- ever he taught, Mr. Fetter finally decided to parison of various faiths with the simple heed his call to the ministry, which had long teachings of the New Testament, and being been heard and the answer painfully delayed. convinced that God's Word alone is the religious faith and duty Christian's law of ; Theological Education and Pastoral that even the least of Christ's commands are Charges. not to be trifled with ; that a Christian Church In youth, before ever becoming a Christian, should represent the principles of a strictly a presentment was felt that some day the regenerate membership ; and that the indi- Gospel ministry would be reached in spite of vidual at the point of his personal relations many forces that seemed so unlikely to pro- to Christ should be taught to think and act duce such a result, and on experiencing the in the full freedom and radiance of his own great change of "passing from darkness to divinely enlightened conscience without the light " at about the age of eighteen, during least fear of persecution or social ostracism, a religious revival at the Millersville Normal the Baptist denomination was chosen as seem- School, the conviction almost at once became ing, more nearly than any other, to represent positive and deep that to prea'ch Christ was these principles, together with Apostolic duty, and notwithstanding all effort to get simplicity in the ordinances and government and although, like the primi- out of this condition of mind, fearing it of the church ;

' might possibly be a delusion, the impression tive disciples, ' a sect everywhere spoken intensified as the years went by and refused against," the views and practices of this body to be smothered by any process of logic or were adopted, and on September 2, 1867, Mr. devices to forget. Fetter was baptized and received into the fel- The question of an open confession of re- lowship of the Hatboro Baptist Church. ligion also began simultaneously with con- It was not without a struggle that this version and persistently pressed upon the change was made in church relationship, for :

82 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

the associations of youth, the memories of eleven years, baptizing over 100 converts, and Godly Sunday School teachers, and the in- seeing the church repaired, remodeled and fluence of social friendships were not lost newly furnished, also a new chapel built and

sight of in choosing a church. equipped, all without debt, Mr. Fetter re-

In September, 1876, special preparation signed, February, 1890, to take charge of a for the pastorate was commenced at Crozer new interest in Spokane, Washington. This Theological Seminary, from which, at the young and important church increased from end of three years, Mr. Fetter was graduated, 18 to nearly 140 members in less than four delivering, on Commencement day, ad- years purchased a church site for $7,000.00 an ; ; dress on "The Economy of Resistance." and erected a parsonage and temporary house During the seminary period he spent one of of worship. A Sunday School was also gath- his summer vacations in training under Mark ered with a membership roll of nearly 200, Bailey, Instructor of Elocution at Yale Col- and an efficient Young People's Union or- lege, and preached nearly every Sunday as ganized. The name of the church was The supply in various pulpits, or as pastor of North Side, afterwards changed to Grace Jenkintown and Immanuel Missions, both of Baptist. While in the West, Mr. Fetter was which were under his care. The former has president of the Baptist State Convention of since become an independent church, and the Eastern Washington. latter remains under the care of the First Although work in the Far West was ex- Baptist Church of Philadelphia. Near the ceedingly fascinating, yet on receiving a close of his seminary course, Mr. Fetter was unanimous call to the First Baptist Church

confronted with a call to become assistant in Doylestown, September 21, 1893, Mr. pastor of the First Baptist Church in Phila- Fetter, after a long period of hesitation, ac- delphia in connection with George Dana cepted and entered upon this interesting but

Boardman, D.D., and also with a call to be- difficult field, May i, 1894, since which time come pastor of the New Britain Baptist 50 converts have been baptized, besides a Church, Bucks County, Pa., one of the largest number of additions by letter. The church and most prosperous country churches in the building has been reroofed and painted out- state. He accepted the latter, and on June side ; the large auditorium frescoed 300 new ;

24, 1 was ordained at New Britain. introduced 879, Dur- Hymnals ; the pew-renting system ing this pastorate, Mr. Fetter was married changed to free seats and free-will offerings ; June 4, 1884, to Anna Catharine Wittich, an and this year (1898) the church entertained accomplished musician of Reading, Pa., and the North Philadelphia Association, Sep- to them have been born three sons, namely tember 27-29. All this advance has been

Newton, born May 4, 1885 ; George, born wrought as by miracle. Comparatively, the

June 17, 1887; and John, born July 14, congregations are excellent, and the Sun- 1890. day School flourishing. Notwithstanding the

After serving New Britain Church nearly limited circupistances of the church, all im- BUCKS COUNTY 83 proveinents have been made without involv- on Staten Island, but after the war returned ing the church in debt. to his native town, Brownville, where his

On December 4, 1895, Mr. Fetter received birth had occurred March 13, 1745. He a unanimous call to the First Baptist Church married Hannah Britton, who was born Jan- of McKeesport, Pa., a much larger field, but uary 16, 1746, and died August 19, 18 19, and declined on account of a general and most among the children who blessed tlieir union earnest request from his people that he was one, Nicholas, the grandfather of the remain in Doylestown. It is with feelings gentleman whose name heads these lines. of great pleasure, which we feel sure are Captain Vansant responded to the final sum- shared by his many friends and acquaint- mons on August 8, 1825. ances, that we present on another page a Nicholas Vansant was born in Brownville,

most excellent portrait of Mr. Fetter, who February 23, 1771, but he subsequently has thoroughly identified himself with Bucks moved to Bensalem township, where he fol- County and her interests. lowed the calling of a fanner. He was joined in wedlock with Mary I^arzalere, who was

born September 8, 1772, and they were the

parents of the following children : Mary, who

'ACOB W. VANSANT, who for many married Jacob Vansant ; Nathaniel, the father

years industriously followed farming, of our subject ; Benjamin, who married Sarah

is now living in quiet retirement on Campbell, and after her death married Jane

his farm near Feasterville, Southampton Ivukens ; L,arzalere, who married Margaret

township, Bucks County. He is a son of Vandegrift ; and Elizabeth, who married Nathaniel and Alice (Vanartsdalen) Vansant, Silas Rhoades. Nicholas died April 19, and was born in the township in which he 1850, and his wife died October 27, 1863. in in now resides, March 7, 1833. Nathaniel Vansant was born 1796,

He comes from an old and distinguished Southampton township ; he afterwards be- family in the county, and one which has been came one of its good substantial citizens and

prominently identified with its growth and farmers. He was a man of high principles development. The section now known as and took an active interest in all matters

Bucks County was in its very infancy when tending toward public advancement, espe- for it numbered among its residents Captain Na- cially along educational lines ; a number thaniel Vansant, the earliest family ancestor of years he rendered valuable service as a

of whom there is any record, who lived at member of the school board. Politically, he Brownville. Captain Nathaniel Vansant, the was a strong supporter of the Democratic great-grandfather of our subject, was a sol- party, whilst in his religious views he was to doctrines of the Presby- dier in the Revolutionary War ; he was an adherent the taken prisoner by the British while in the terian Church, being a member of the church service of our country and was incarcerated of that denomination in Bensalem township. —;; ,;

84 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

He was called to his final rest in 1889. His County, for seventeen years, and upon the companion in the pathways of life was Alice death of his father bought the latter's farm, cultivated for a short time. He Vanartsdalen, who was born in 1 795, a daugh- which he ter of Jacob Vanartsdalen. The latter was disposed of the estate in 1884, and purchased married to Jemima Hicks of Bensalem town- the farm upon which he now lives, known as ship, by whom he had the following off- the Worthington place. He is a shrewd success has attended his spring : Joseph ; Mary, who married Horace business man and Reading; Alice, the mother of our subject, efforts on every hand, and besides the farm who died in 1876; Sarah, who became the upon which he lives he owns another piece acres, which wife of Howard K. Sager ; Simon, who died of property, consisting of 70 he

single ; George, who married Jane Cornell rents.

and Mahlon, who married Sarah Nott. Mr. On July 2, 1863, Mr. Vansant was united and Mrs. Vansant reared seven children, in matrimonial bonds with Miss Esther Ann

namely : Amanda, who married Anderson Buckman, of Moreland township, Mont- Leedon, deceased, lives in Bensalem town- gomery County, a daughter of Amos and ship with her three children—Thomas, Alice, Esther (Reese) Buckman. Mr. Buckman

and Nathaniel ; Casper M., deceased, married was a farmer of that township and one of its

Ellen Field, who now resides in Southamp- leading citizens ; he died in 1870 and his wife ton township with her two children, Natha- passed away in the year following. They

niel and lycvi ; Nicholas, who died unmarried had seven children, namely : Dilworth, de- Hiram, who also died single; Jacob W., the ceased, who married Emily Gillingham subject of this biographical record; Howard, William, who married Martha Johnson; deceased, who married Elizabeth Fetter Jane Maria, the wife of Leonard Comley

his widow afterwards became the wife of Mary I/., the wife of Watson Tomlinson

Grant Praul by whom she has a daughter, Amos B. ; Esther Ann ; and Joseph G., who

Virginia ; and Martin V. B., who is living in married Rebecca Addis. Our subject and retirement in Bensalem township. his wife have six children, whose records Jacob W. Vansant was reared on the farm follow: Alice, who married William Brad-

and attended the common schools until he field and lives in Abington, Pa. ; Watson T. was seventeen years of age, when he left who married Anna Reft, by whom he has

home to learn the trade of a miller in Middle- one child, Ethel May, is a farmer of South-

town. He remained there for four years, ampton township ; Howard, a farmer of Ben- after which he engaged in milling at Harts- salem township, married Eliza Stout; I,eo-

ville, Bucks County, for eight years, and nard C. , a farmer of Southampton township,

still later followed that occupation for two married Sarah Yerkes, and has one son,

years in Moreland township, Montgomery William ; Mary, unmarried ; and John Read- County. After his marriage, in 1863, he ing, also single, and a farmer by occupation.

resided in Southampton township, Bucks Politically, Mr. Vansant is a stanch Demo-

MILTON H. WEAVER, M, D. ;;;;

BUCKS COUNTY 87

crat, and was elected justice of the peace in Mrs. Gross, a native of Germany, and they

1887 ; he served as school director for three had but one child, John George, the great- years and takes an active interest in educa- grandfather of our subject. Mr. and Mrs. tional matters. Religiously, he and his wife Weaver lie buried in the Richlandtown are members of the Dutch Reformed Church. Cemetery, where all of the deceased mem-

He is a man held in the highest esteem, and bers of the family have since been buried. possesses the confidence of all to such an ex- John George Weaver, Jr. , succeeded to the tent that he has not infrequently been called ownership of the home property, and it is upon to settle estates and do other work of a now divided up among three of his descend- trustworthy nature. ants, —Reuben H., Lewis, and William H. He was united in marriage with Catherine Harter, who was also a native of Germany,

YJV^^II.TON H. WEAVER, M.D., whose and they reared the following children : Mrs.

1 1 =/ portrait is shown on the opposite William Hager ; Mrs. Gross ; Mrs. William gl "^il^ the leading Frankenfield Mrs. Rice Samuel ^_^ page, ranks among ; Abraham ;

physicians and surgeons of Bucks County, John, who married Savina Stoneback ; and and resides in his beautiful home in Rich- George, who married Elizabeth Wimmer. landtown, Richland township, where he has Samuel Weaver, the grandfather of our been successfully engaged in practice since subject, came into possession of the old

1877. He is a man of public enterprise, and homestead, and made many of the improve- has always had the interests of his commun- ments which make it a very valuable estate

ity at heart, liberally supporting all enter- at the present day. He erected new build- prises tending toward the public's benefit. ings, rebuilt and enlarged the old ones, set

He was born in that township, October 13, out many fruit trees, and carried on farming

1854, and is a son of Elias and Anna Cath- with much success, being one of the good erine (Harwick) Weaver. substantial citizens of that section. On one He comes of sturdy German stock, being a part of the farm, he built a good comfortable descendant of John George Weaver, a native home, and a barn for his son, Reuben H. of Wurtemberg, Germany. The latter, with and on another section built a house and barn his wife and only child, immigrated to Amer- for another son, William H. He was joined

ica in 1 7 16, and purchased a tract of 300 acres in wedlock with Catherine Horn, and their

of land, which originally belonged to the children were as follows : Elias, our subject's

father ; Caroline, the wife of Samuel Stunk Penn tract, in the northeast corner of Rich- ; land township, Bucks County, Pa., near the Sarah Ann, the wife of Samuel Cressman village of California. There he build a good, Lewis H., who married Lydia Lowriglit

log-house, which is standing at Reuben H., who married Annie Hultzhocker substantial ;

the present day and is owned by one of his and William H., deceased, who married Sarah descendants, Lewis Weaver. His wife was Huffert. BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Elias Weaver was bornjinie 30, 1822, and, School, of Kutztown, Pa., from which he after conducting his father's farm for twenty- was graduated in 1873, and subsequently six years, moved to his present home near became a medical student under L,. T. Trum-

Richlandtown. During his active days, he bower, M.D., who is now practicing at Nor- successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits, ristown. Pa. He then entered the Bellevue but is now spending his declining years in Hospital Medical College of New York City, retired life. He was joined in matrimonial and applied himself with much diligence bonds with Anna Catherine Harwick, who until his graduation in 1877, when he entered was born in Milford township, November upon a practice in that city. After practic-

21, 1 82 1, a daughter of Samuel Harwick, ing there for one year, he returned to his and they became the parents of six children, native town where he has since followed his

of whom the sons were as follows : Milton profession. He purchased a home, adjoining

H. ; l/ouis M. ; Elias H., Jr., who for some that of his father, which is now owned by

time was engaged in teaching school, subse- his brother, Elias, Jr., and in 1883 built a

quently served as deputy register of Bucks drugstore and office in the heart of the vil-

County, and at the present time is engaged lage of Richlandtown. He has the only in farming, —he was united in marriage with drugstore in the township, and for nine Phlinda Detweiler, and they have two chil- years was the only physician and surgeon in

dren, Aaron D., and Chester Allen ; and Richland township. He was successful from Charles H., M.D., who died at the age of the very start, and in a very short time his twenty- six years. Charles H. Weaver, M.D., practice reached enormous proportions. He was engaged in a successful practice in asso- has also been identified with many public

ciation with the subject of this record, and improvements and has supported all meas- was also quite active in politics, serving one ures having for their ultimate factor the term as register of wills, being elected on the advancement of the interests of the village.

Republican ticket. He was joined in hyme- In 1884 he built him a handsome brick resi- neal bonds with Miana Myers, by whom he dence, which with its beautiful lawn and

had two children : Minnie and Charles, both shade trees is one of the finest in the sec- of whom died. The other children of Elias tion. He is a very popular man, a pleasant

Weaver were two daughters : Sabina, now companion and has many friends throughout

deceased ; and Christina, also deceased, who Bucks County.

was the wife of Robert Cope, an attorney of In 1876, Dr. Weaver was united in mar-

Bethlehem, Pa. riage with Matilda Sell, who is a native of Dr. Milton H. Weaver, whose name heads Upper Saucon township, Lehigh County,

these lines, after completing the course pre- and a daughter of Henry B. and Mary Sell.

scribed in the public schools, engaged as a They have adopted one daughter, L,izzie teacher for a period of seven terms. He Rebecca Kistler Weaver, a daughter of Rev. then entered the Keystone State Normal R. B. Kistler. She was married September BUCKS COUNTY 89

29, 1898, to Irving Riegel of Durham town- occupation he was very successful. He was ship, this county. Religiously, the Doctor the progenitor of one daughter and one son, and his family are faithful members of the both of whom were born in Troy, N. Y.

German Reformed Church. In politics our They were named as follows : Charles, the subject has always been a faithful Republi- father of our subject, and Sarah B. (Simpson). can, has served as justice of the peace two Charles Twining was born in 1820, and with terms and is now serving as notary public. his parents moved to Bucks County, where

He is a member of Bucks County, Lehigh he assisted his father in the cultivation of the education in County and New York Medical Societies ; is farm ; having acquired a good examining surgeon for the New York Mu- the art of farming he began that vocation on tual, Prudential, and Metropolitan Insurance his own account in Upper Makefield town-

Companies, and is also a member of various ship, when he came to mature years ; having other organizations. dealt extensively in the lime business in the meantime. In 1853 he gave up farming and moved to Yardley, where he devoted his entire

attention to the lime business ; he also dealt "jClDWARD W. TWINING. Among the largely in grain, hay and fertilizers. In 1887 disposed of his business in J3! industrious and energetic farmers Mr. Twining a resident of Newtown, of Bucks County, Pa. , is the gentleman whose Yardley and became name appears at the head of this notice, who Pa., where he dealt exclusively in lime; a active is not only pursuing that independent calling, few years later he retired from the

farming, but is also successfully engaged in duties of life, and is now passing the sunset dairying and poultry raising. The home of of life in quiet and peace. Mr. Twining was died in Mr. Twining is pleasantly located in Lower married to Elizabeth H. West, who Makefield township in the borough of Yard- 1884, after having given birth to the follow- Mary of 100 acres ing children : Stephen B., deceased ; E. ley ; he also owns another farm the subject of this located 2>}^ miles north of the town, which (Eastburn); Edward W.,

; Rebecca he also operates. This prominent and influ- sketch; Emma T. (Scofield) and ential citizen of Yardley was born in Upper R. (Large). obtained a good edu- Makefield township, Bucks County, March 4, Edward W. Twining the public schools of his native 1 846, and is a son of Charles and Elizabeth cation in H. (West) Twining, and grandson of Stephen township and at Yardley, and completed his Twining. schooling in the Westtown Boarding School. Stephen Twining was born and reared in He remained with his parents until he became business Troy, N. Y., where he resided until after his of age, and the early part of his. marriage, when he became a resident of Upper career was spent in company with his father

Stephen B. ; after his father had Makefield township, this county ; his voca- and brother tion was that of an agriculturist, in which disposed of his interests in Yardley, our sub- go BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

ject and his brother, Stephen B., conducted April 16, 1854, and is a son of Marcus K. a stone quarry for a period of about twenty- and Catherine (Gearhart) Hartzell. five years, which they operated on a large Marcus K. Hartzell, the father of our sub-

scale, giving employment to a large force of ject, at an early age became proprietor of a men. In 1893 the brothers dissolved partner- hotel at Milford Square, Milford township, ship, and our subject turned his attention which he conducted for some five years, after toward farming. He purchased a fine farm which he moved to Quakertown, this county. near Yardley, and in connection with farm- There he conducted the old Continental Hotel

ing also engaged in dairying and raising until about 1852, when the North Penn Rail- poultry. Our subject takes great pride in his road was run to Sellersville, where he then fine herd of some 40 Jersey cows, which are located. He began the manufacture of cigars, unsurpassed in his section of the county; he at which he continued for a period of fifteen makes large daily shipments of cream to years, but finally abandoned that trade and Crane's Ice Cream Co., of Philadelphia, of moved to Bull's Head, Rockhill township, which he is a prominent stockholder. Mr. where he conducted the hotel bearing that Twining deals largely in poultry, and for the name until his death, aged sixty-four years. season of 1897 shipped over 7000 broilers, He was joined in wedlock with Catherine mostly to the markets of New York City. Gearhart, a daughter of Isaac Gearhart of

Our subject is truly a representative farmer Milford township, and they reared four chil-

of Bucks County, and enjoys the respect dren, namely: Winfield S., a resident of and esteem of a host of friends and acquaint- Philadelphia ; Lizzie (Smith), whose home

ances. is in Rockhill township ; C. Monroe, the In 1878 Mr. Twining wedded Mary S. subject of this biographical record ; and Walker, daughter of Phineas and Deborah Kate (Jones), a resident of Philadelphia.

Walker, of Trenton, N. J., and their home C. Monroe Hartzell, after completing his has been blessed by. one child, Stephen B. education in the common schools, entered the Fraternally, Mr. Twining belongs to Uncas world of business as foreman in his father's lyodge, No. 426, I. O. R. M., of Yardley, Pa., cigar factory at Sellersville. He next ac- and is also a member of the A. O. U. W. cepted a position as foreman of a similar concern at L,ansdale, Pa., which was owned by Jacob Beever, but soon after went to Phil- adelphia to conduct a cigar store for Geori,e 7T\ MONROE HARTZELL, one of the E. Hagelnan, at the corner of Third and

I 21 ™ost popular landlords of Rockhill Arch streets. He remained there for three ^ ^ township, is proprietor of that well- and a half years, after which he embarked known haven of rest to the traveling public, in the hotel business at White Horse Hotel, the Central House of Sellersville. He was this county, continuing for one year, and born in Milford township, Bucks County, then took charge of the Washington House BUCKS COUNTY 91

in Sellersville. He conducted that hostelry council. Socially, he is a member of Mac-

for five years, after which he secured the Calla lyodge, No. 596, F. & A. M., also of the County Line House at Telford, Montgomery Brotherhood of the Union. County, which he ran with good results

until 189S, in which year he disposed of his property in that village and again returned to Sellersville, where he has since conducted -OHN T. GILKYSON is a prominent the Central House. In addition to enlarging and prosperous farmer of Northamp-

the building one story, he has remodeled it ton township, Bucks County, Pa.,

throughout, enlarged the dining parlor, and where he owns a farm of 35 acres, which

made it a first-class stopping place in every he has put under a fine state of cultiva-

respect. A good livery is run in connection. He is engaged in farming and dairy- tion with the house, and the hospitable ing, and takes the greater part of his produce landlord devotes his untiring efforts toward to the markets of Philadelphia. This well- making his guests comfortable. The viands to-do citizen is a native of this county, having which appear upon the table set by this been born in l/ower Makefield township June

house are well and carefully cooked so as 12, 1 83 1, and being a son of Brittan and Re- to satisfy the demands of the most fastidious becca (Terry) Gilkyson. appetite, and this feature alone has made Our subject's great-grandfather, James Gil- an enduring reputation throughout the kyson, was born in Scotland and immigrated in county for this most popular house. Mr. to this country when young and settled where he followed Hartzell is of a genial and good natured Lower Makefield township, the Revolu- disposition, and has made friends rapidly in farming. He was a colonel in several the various communities in which he has tionary War, and participated in surrender of the resided. Besides his hotel property, he engagements. After the returned to his former vocation owns a fine, modern, three-story private British he ripe old age of one hundred dwelling, which, with its French style of and lived to the years. roof, makes an attractive appearance. It and two Our subject's grandfather, Andrew Gilky- is located at 414 Flower street, Chester a prominent farmer of Lower Make- City, Pa. son, was township, this county, and held many In 1876, Mr. Hartzell was united in matri- field offices he was also a colonel in monial bonds with Uzzie G. Allen, a daugh- township ; the War of 181 2. He was married to a Miss ter of John Allen of Rockhill township, and Lasheler, and their children were as follows : they are the happy parents of three children : the father of died in Ohio ; Brittan, Roscoe, Katie May, and Noble Mark. Like Gilbert our subject Jane also died at her home in his father, in political affiliations he is a ; Margaret, the wife of William Democrat, and has served as high conptable Ohio, and The maternal grandfather of our for three years and as a member of the town Hock. 92 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

subject was John Terry, a farmer of I/Ower the age of twenty-seven years ; he then be- Makefield township, who was twice united came a resident of Newtown township, and in marriage. carried on general farming there for a period Brittan Gilkyson was born and reared on of seventeen years. In 1875, he purchased his father's farm in Lower Makefield town- the Hibbs property, his present farm, and has since made many improvements upon ship ; he learned the trade of a mason, which he followed up to the time of his marriage, the same. He hauls his produce to the when he took to farming. He farmed tliree Philadelphia markets, where he obtains a

years in his native township, four years in good price for his goods ; he is also engaged Upper Makefield township, eleven years in in dairying in connection with general farm-

the lower end of Upper Makefield township, ing. Our subject is an industrious worker, and then thirty years in Northampton town- a good neighbor and citizen, and commands of ship ; he also followed the trade of a mason the esteem and confidence a multitude of to a large extent. He passed from earth acquaintances.

March 30, 1881, at Richboro. In politics he Mr. Gilkyson formed a matrimonial alli- was a solid Democrat, and served as judge of ance with Mary Yerkes, a daughter of Silas elections many years. As a result of his mar- and Margaret (Fetter) Yerkes, the former a riage with Rebecca Terry a family of ten well-to-do farmer of Northampton township.

children was reared, namely : Sarah, wife of In politics our subject is a Democrat; reli- Samuel Gill, a farmer of Northampton town- giously, a member of the Presbyterian

ship—both are now deceased; John T. , whose Church ; and fraternally, a member of New-

name heads these lines ; Mary Ann was mar- town Lodge, No. F. & A. M. Chapter, 427, ;

ried to Thomas Willard, both deceased; Mar- No. 229, and St. John's Commandery, No. 4. garet, deceased, was the wife of John Palmer; Gilbert, a farmer of Southampton township,

was wedded to Elizabeth Clayton, who is now

deceased; Jane Eliza is the wife of Oliver ~CdwdDWIN WORTHINGTON is a promi- lyuff, of Northampton township ; Hannah is J! nent and influential farmer of the wife of Fenton, of Philadelphia Joseph ; Wrightstown township, where he owns a

Andrew, deceased, was joined in marriage valuable farm of 150 acres. He is a son of with Jennie Yerkes ; Caroline is the wife of Benjamin and Patience (Heston) Worthing- John Barcolo, and they reside at Churchville ton, and was born on the ; old homestead and Franklin, a resident of Northampton farm, the one he now owns, on the Sth of township, who was united in marriage with October, 1845. Vinne Dungan. Benjamin Worthington, the father of our John T. Gilkyson received a common subject, came from an old and widely-known school education and remained at home, family of Bucks County, and was born in working with his father, until he attained Buckingham township, and subsequently

/._J

DR. ISAIAH ;M1CHENER. ; ,

BUCKS COUNTY 95

moved to Wrightstown township at twenty- County. Four children blessed our subject's

one years of age, where he lived throughout home: Warren, born June 4, 1877; Morris,

life, engaged in agricultural pursuits. He March 17, 1881 ; Eleanor M., July 23, 1882;

was a dutiful and law-abiding citizen and and Evelyn L,. He has always taken an

lived a long, useful life, passing to his eter- active interest in matters affecting the public welfare and has supported public enterprises nal rest in May, 1892. He was married to ; Patience Heston, who was born in Bucking- at present he is a director of the Newtown ham township, and died in 1882, and their National Bank, of Newtown, and has served union was blessed by the birth of eight chil- as such for five years. In political attach-

dren, five of whom are living, namely : Eliza- ments, he is a member of the Republican beth, who resides in Newtown, this county party, and for thirteen years has served as a Watson, a farmer of Warminster township, school director.. Socially, he is a member of the Junior Order of United American Me- who married Annie Custer ; Lydia M. C, the relict of C. Thompson, lives in Newtown chanics I/odge at Penn's Park. E. ; Mary, who lives with her sister in Newtown, and Edwin are twins. Edwin Worthington was educated in the common schools of his native township and R.ISAIAH MICHENERis no doubt upon reaching man's estate assumed charge the. oldest practicing veterinary of the old homestead, consisting of 150 acres,: M surgeon in the state of Pennsyl- and has since carried on general farming. vania, having successfully followed his chosen

The property is well fenced, is supplied with profession for nioxe than the last three score good substantial buildings, which are so es- :of years, his;fiel,d of .practice extending over

sential to successful farming, and has many I the southeastern pairt of thejtiate. He is de-

other improvements, most of which, were. ' scended. from an old and prosperous family of

eflFected by his father. He carries on the cul- Bucks -.County, where he was born January

tivation of the soil by the latest. improved, 25, 1812, and is. a son of,- Thomas and Sarah methods, and has met with unbounded suc- (Bradshaw), Michener.

cess. Mr. Worthington is widely known His grandfather, Meshach Michener, was

throughout this section, and is a worthy also a native of Bucks County, and was a

representative of the agricultural class. farmer throughout his entire life. Thomas

February 17, 1876, our subject was joined Michener, the father of our subject, was born in the holy bonds of wedlock with Jane on his father's farm in Buckingham town- Elizabeth Twining, of Wrightstown township, and, although reared to agricultural

ship, who was born December 25, 1852, a pursuits, began to follow the trade of a shoe- daughter of Elias and Eleanor (DeCoursey) maker when he attained his manhood, at

Twining. Mr. Twining is a farmer by occu- which occupation he continued most of his pation, and resides at Penn's Park, Bucks days. At the time of his death he was a resi- 6 96 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

dent of Montgomery County, Pa. He departed who was also the author of the works, " An- this life May i6, 1865, at the ripe old age of atomy and Physiology of the Horse," and eighty-six years. He was joined in marriage " The Reformed Cattle Doctor." Dr. Mich- with Sarah Bradshaw, a native of Warrington ener is an honorary member of the United township, this county, who died February 9, States Veterinarian Medical Association, and 1862. This union resulted in a family often his is the honor of having given that body its children, all of whom are deceased, with the name. At a meeting of the prominent veter- exception of our subject. Their names are inarians of our country in New York City, a

as follows : Jane and Mary, twins James name for their society became the topic of ; ;

Clarissa ; Dr. Isaiah, the gentleman whose discussion, and many were presented and all name heads this notice ; Sarah Ann Susan rejected until our subject finally presented ; ;

Eliza ; Hannah, and Rebecca. the name by which it is known to-day, and

Isaiah Michener, after receiving his ele- this was immediately pronounced appropriate mentary education in the schools of his native and was adopted. He owns two fine farms in

township, began to prepare himself for the this county, both of which he rents, and is career of a veterinary surgeon, and accord- regarded as a valued citizen of the commu- ingly entered the Veterinary Department of nity ; he is a good neighbor, a generous friend Dr. Dadd's College, at Boston, Mass. Upon and a dutiful citizen. graduating from that institution, he later en- Dr. Michener was married in November, tered and graduated from the same depart- 1836, to Esther Good, a native of Plumstead ment of the Penn College of Philadelphia. township, and a daughter of John and Sarah In he 1836, began to practice in Buckingham (Smith) Good ; her father was a farmer and

township, remaining there until the year carpenter of Plumstead township, and is now 1883, during which time he was called upon deceased. A family of ten children were born to make many long drives, far going as as to bless this union, namely : Ezra, who mar- the state of Delaware. In 1883, he became a ried Margaret Smith, lives near our subject's resident of the village of Carversville, this farm ; Sarah is the wife of Charles Paxson, county, where he has since pursued his proof Solebury township John C. , a veterinary ; fession with marked success. He has estab- surgeon, of Colmar, Pa., was wedded to Anna lished an excellent reputation throughout the Ely ; Thomas died at the age of two years ; state, and is everywhere considered an author- Mary Ellen is the widow of Asher M. Fell, ity on all matters relating to the equine fam- and resides at Doylestown ; Anna Margaret, ily. He wrote the first article ever published deceased, was the wife of Marshall Williams ; on Cerebro-spinal Meningitis, which appeared Horace is a farmer of Doylestown township, in a publication, " The Modern Horse Doc- and married Sarah Jane Fell ; Clara is the tor," in 1856. This book was the result of wife of Willis Neal, and they live in Osage, the efforts of his former preceptor, George Mitchell County, Iowa; Charles Byron, a H. Dadd, M.D., V.S., of Boston, Mass., professor in a veterinary college, at Washing- ;

BUCKS COUNTY 97

ton, D. C, died in that city, August with every movement tending to the ad- 9, 1894 ; and Anson B., living on the old Michener vancement of the interests and welfare of the homestead, who was united in marriage with community at large. Alfred Johnson, of Mary Jane Worthington. Dr. Michener's whom this sketch makes particular mention, wife died in November, 1875, and he formed is now living in retirement ; he was born in a second matrimonial alliance with Mrs. Upper Makefield township, October 9, 1828, Rebecca Scott, in 1877. She was born in and is a son of John and Eliza (Harvey) John-

Buckingham township, December 11, 1838, son, and grandson of Garrett Johnson. and is a daughter of David and Milicent The first member of this prominent family,

(L,arge) Bradshaw, and the widow of Samuel of whom we have a record, is Garrett John- Scott, a farmer in Buckingham township, son, the grandfather of our subject, who was who died April 5, 1872. She is the mother of Scotch- Irish extraction. He, in company of seven children by her first husband, namely • with his two brothers, came to America

George W., who died in 1872; William S. during the colonial days, and located in Up- and Edward B. , who are in the ice business per Makefield township, this county. One in Chicago, 111. ; David Heston, who lives at of his brothers located on Long Island, while

Carversville ; Samuel M. , deceased ; Anna the other made a settlement in Virginia.

M., a resident of Doylestown ; and Sarah, de- His vocation was that of a farmer. He was ceased. Dr. and Mrs. Michener are promi- the progenitor of these children : John

nent members of the Society of Friends of James ; Amos ; Ira ; Charles ; Garrett, the

Buckingham. Politically, he is a strong Re- only one living, an esteemed resident of Tini-

publican, and in his early days was a recog- cum township; Huldah ; and Joanna. The nized leader in his community. He has held maternal grandfather of our subject, Henry the office of school director for six years. He Harvey, was of English descent, and was a l]as served \wenty-one years as president of life-long farmer of Upper Makefield township. the Doylestown Agricultural Society and was He married a Miss Vanzant by whom he had president of the Carversville Normal Institute four children : Eliza, the mother of our sub-

as long as it existed. Dr. Michener's portrait ject ; Martha ; Abner ; and Amos. is shown on a preceding page in proximity to John Johnson, the father of our subject, this. was born March 4, 1791, in Upper Makefield

township ; upon attaining his manhood, he inherited one of his father's farms, and re- tLFRED JOHNSON. A biographical sided upon it many years engaged in agri- record of the pioneer residents of cultural pursuits. Later in life he moved to y Bucks County would be incom- Shelby County, Ohio, where he resided until plete were not prominent mention made of death claimed him, in 1863. He married the Johnson family of Southampton town- Eliza Harvey, who was a native of Upper ship, which have been intimately connected Makefield township, the date of her birth ;

98 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

2 1 acres and lived there eighteen being November 17, 1790 ; as a result of this consisting of marriage they became the parents of a family years, when he sold his farm to Normal Ste-

of thirteen children : Emiline, born Novem- phens ; in 1889, he built his present place on

ber 1 8 resides in Ohio what is known as the McDowan property, 24, 17, Shelby County, ;

Mary, born April 23, 18 19, married John C. and now has one of the most beautiful homes

Leedam, M. D., now deceased, and she also in Bucks County ; his house is built of brown

lives in Ohio ; Harvey, born September 10, stone and has all the modem improvements. 1820, is deceased, —he married Kate Green, Farming has been his sole occupation, and in

and she now lives in Shelby County, Ohio it he was very successful, and ranked, during

Charles B., born January 27, 1822, married the active period of his life, among the fore- Elizabeth Matthews,—both are now deceased most agriculturists of his community. He ;

Martha A., born March 24, 1824, was wedded possesses the esteem and respect of a multi-

to R. Atkinson, now deceased, and her home tude of friends, and is spending his declining

is also in Shelby County, Ohio born years in life in the of com- ; Jane V., peaceful happiness November 12, 1825, was joined in marriage fortable circumstances, the result of many with Solomon Wetherell,—both are now de- years of care and labor.

ceased ; Alfred, the subject of this personal Mr. Johnson on February 18, 1858, wedded

history ; Eliza, born February 20, 1830, was Harriet Hogeland, born in Southampton

twice married,—her first husband was William township July S, 1834, a daughter of Isaac

lyuker, and her second marriage was withJohn and Phcebe (States) Hogeland ; the former Adlard ; Achges, deceased, was born Novem- was born September 16, 1792, and died Sep-

ber 6, 1832 John, deceased, born 1 ; was May 22, tember 7, 874, and the latter was born Jan- D., 183s ; Ellen born May 17, 1837, is the uary 18, 1795, and died January 11, 1873. wife of R. Staley, and they live in Shelby Mr. and Mrs. Hogeland were the parents of County, Ohio ; James, deceased, was born Sep- the following children: William S., born tember 1840 and 19, ; Joseph J., deceased, who October 7, 1820; Julia Ann, born June 13, was born November 4, 1 842. Religiously, Mr. 1823, was wedded to Charles Tillyer, now de-

Johnson was a devoted member of the Pres- ceased; Louise, born February 26, 1826, died

byterian Church. He served as director of August 21, 1853; Alfred, born March 12,

the poor three years, from 1838 to 1841, and 1828; Abraham, born November 16, 1831, also held many other township oflfices. married Eliza Knight, and both are now de- Our subject received his elementary edu- ceased ; and Harriet, the wife of our subject. in cation the schools of his native township In religious views, Mr. Johnson is a liberal and remained at home until he attained the supporter of the Presbyterian Church. In age of twenty-eight years ; at that age he politics, he has always given his support in took charge of his father-in-law's farm, re- favor of the Democratic party, and served as maining on the same for a period of thirteen county treasurer in 1864 and 1865, and has years. He then bought a farm of B. Vanzant, held the office of school director. Mr. John- : ;

BUCKS COUNTY 99

son is leading the life of a good citizen, kind name was Sarah Krusen. John Gill and his

neighbor and generous friend, and filling his wife reared the following children : Sarah, position in life as the promoter, to the best deceased, who was the wife of John Lefferts ; of his ability, of every good work and pur- John, who resides on a farm in Northampton

pose socially, morally, religiously, and poli- township ; Samuel, deceased, the father of tically. our subject ; Henry, a record of whose life appears elsewhere in this volume; Eliza, the

wife of Andrew J. Ely, a farmer living in New Hope James, a retired lumber dealer AIvVA Gllyly, an industrious and pro- ; gressive farmer of Northampton town- of Philadelphia, who married Susan Gill

ship, Bucks County, is a descendant Ann, the wife of .David Krusen, a farmer of of an old and well-known family of that town- Northampton township ; Isaac, a farmer in ship. He was born on the old Gill homestead the same locality; Jacob, who met his death there January 2, 1857, and is a son of Samuel by accident at Pike's Peak, Colo., —he was and Sarah T. (Gilkyson) Gill. hauling a load of lumber and upon falling off

He is descended from John Gill, whose of his wagon rolled under the wheels and was killed at parents were of English birth. John Gill killed ; Abraham, deceased, was the lived for many years in Philadelphia, and sub- battle of Fair Oaks, Va., —^^his wife was Ellen sequently purchased a farm in New Britain Mattis ; Mary, deceased, was the wife of Henry Vantilburg, a farmer of Ohio township, Bucks County, and still later 100 ; Jona- acres in Northampton township, which has than, who died out West ; and Thomas and since been the family homestead. He was Ivizzie, who died in infancy. the progenitor of the following children Samuel Gill, the father of the gentleman Edwards whose name heads these lines, was born gn John ; Rebecca, who married George homestead August 10, 18 and was and lived in Ohio ; Anna, who became the the 19, reared to agricultural pursuits, becoming one wife of Joseph Carrell ; Lydia, who married Joel Carver; Sidney, who married Ivcwis of the most prosperous farmers in his section. was a man of high principles and was Hart ; and Henry, who was married to Mary He Fretz. held in high esteem by a large circle of ac- John Gill, the grandfather of our subject, quaintances. Politically, he was not very was born on the old homestead, but spent active, but took a deep interest in town af- most of his life in agricultural pursuits in fairs. In religious belief, he was a member Southampton township, where he was very of the Presbyterian Church, and his wife was well known. He passed- into the world of a faithful member of the Society of Friends. rest in Solebury, Pa., about the year 1849. His union with Sarah T. Gilkyson was formed He was united in marriage with Jane Dun- November 18, 1849, which resulted in the gan, a daughter of Thomas Dungan, a farmer following issue: Joseph T., who was born of Bucks County, and his wife whose maiden March 2, 1852, and died on the twenty-first ,

lOO BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

day of the same month; the second child daughter of Captain David V. and Mary A. died in infancy; Britton G., who was born (lyUgar) Feaster. Captain Feaster was born

February 12, 1854, died June 22, 1880; J. in Northampton township, and throughout Alva, our subject ; John, born March 4, 1859, life followed the occupation of a machinist.

is a farmer of Richboro, Pa., and married He died December 2, 1894, and his wife

Nettie Addis ; Franklin, born September 27, passed away January 4, 1890. Captain Feaster

1 86 1, married Carrie Clayton, a daughter of and his wife had three children : Harry W.

Dr. A. H. Clayton, of Richboro ; Rebecca a conductor on the Pennsylvania Railroad,

Jane, born September 17, 1864, died February married Mary G. Gill, named above ; James

18, 1881 ; and Mary G., born March 11, 1868, died in December, 1890; and Laura E., the

who married Harry W. Feaster, a conductor wife of our subject. Our subject is the father on the Pennsylvania Railroad. Mr. Gill died of two sons, namely: Harry T., who was born

July 21, 187s, and his worthy wife, who was October 14, 1887; and J. Alva, Jr., who was

born on August 7, 1827, in Northampton born September 5, 1891. township, died in December, 1883.

J. Alva Gill was reared upon the home farm and attended the public schools of New-

town. In 1862 he left the parental roof and IIvLIAM H. MOON, whose post office purchased what was known as the Talbert Wiis Morrisville, throughout his ac- place, a tract of 100 acres upon which he has tive live has been engaged in horticultural since resided. He has ever been energetic pursuits; in 1872, he established the Glen- and industrious, and has been more than wood Nurseries, which rank among the best ordinarily successful in the pursuance of his in this country, and are well known through- occupation. He has effected many notable out the United States and Canada. Having improvements upon the property and has one made a careful study of the requirements of of the best residences in his section. He is each variety of plants and improved the soil a man of genial disposition, a pleasant com- to the proper state, the nurseries have wit- panion, and is very popular with his fellow- nessed a rapid advancement during their citizens. He carries on general farming and twenty-five years of existence, and now a has followed the Philadelphia markets since customer, in search of anything in the horti- he was seventeen years of age. Politically, cultural line, can find what he wishes, both he is a stanch supporter of the principles of in quality and variety, at the Glenwood Nur- the Democratic party. Socially, he is a series. It has always been his aim to excel member of Newtown L,odge, No. 427, F. & in quality, and the success with which he has A. M.; and North Star I^odge, I. O. O. F., met in that direction is amply proven by the of Richboro, Pa. prestige he enjoys.

January 28, 1886, Mr. Gill was joined in Mr. Moon was born March 6, 1849, and is Hymen's bonds with Laura E. Feaster, a a son of Mahlon and Jane (Craft) Moon, and

ALONZO NICHOLAS. BUCKS COUNTY 103

is a grandson of James Moon, who was a to 60 men. Each succeeding year shows a farmer of Middletown township. The family good increase in amount of business trans-

is of English extraction. Mahlon Moon, who acted, for which much credit is due to the

was a native of Middletown township, in efficient work of our subject. He is an earn- 1839 established a nursery near Morrisville, est worker in the Horticultural Association of in which line he was one of the most promi- Pennsylvania, of which he served as president

nent men of the state. Religiously, he was from 1892 to 1895. He has ever endeavored a member of the Society of Friends. He to perform the obligations of a dutiful citizen, was united in marriage with Jane Craft, who and has won the confidence and respect of his

1 was born in 8 1 7, and died in Falls township, army of acquaintances throughout the Union. in 1870; their union resulted in the follow- He was joined in the holy bonds of wed-

ing issue.: William H., the subject of this lock, in 1875, with Ellen M. Taylor, a daugh-

personal history ; Mary C. , who died in ter of Jesse W. Taylor of Philadelphia, and

March, 1884; Samuel C., a nurseryman of they became the parents. of four children :

Falls township; and James M., who is asso- Edith C; Henry T.; James E. and Maria B. ciated in business with our subject. Mr. In religious attachments he is a member of

Moon, who was born Februairy 14, 18 14, was the Society of Friends. He has always taken

called to his eternal rest in 1 887. a deep interest in matters of an educational William H. Moon lived at home and worked nature, and- for twelve years served as a mem- for his father until 1872, when he established ber of the school board. He is a man of the Glenwood Nurseries near Morrisville, educational attainments, having attended the Lower Makefield township. The business schools of his native town, a boarding school,

has assumed vast proportions, and there is and a commercial college at Trenton, N. J. now included in the property peach orchards at Riegelsville, as well as 125 acres at Morris-

ville. In 1890 he organized a stock company, incorporated under the state laws of Pennsyl- LONZO NICHOLAS, ex-sheriff of vania, and the following officers were elec- M BucksBuck County, and a leading busi-

; /^^\^^ ne; ted : James M. Moon, president Henry W. ness man of Doylestown, whose

Comfort, vice-president : William H. Moon, portrait is shown on the opposite page, is a

secretary and treasurer ; the first two in con- member of the enterprising firm of Nicholas nection with Edward C. Williamson forming & Bean, real estate brokers, and writers of the board of directors. They cultivate horti- life and fire insurance. He is one of the best cultural novelties extensively, and are known known men in the county, and possesses a as the peach kings of Bucks County, having large amount of influence in political circles. 25,000 trees at Riegelsville. Their produc- He is a son of Peter L. and Samantha (Over- tions are sold in all sections of the United ton) Nicholas, and was born in Durham town- States and Canada, and they employ from 50 ship, this county, July 23, 1847. ;

I04 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Our subject's ancestry is German on his aid the sick. He was a Lutheran, and was

father's side, and English on his mother's. deacon and elder in the church for many

His great-grandfather, John Nicholas, who years. His death occurred June 15, 1882, was born in Wittenberg, Germany, and im- when he was aged sixty-eight years. His

migrated to this country during colonial days, wife, who died June 12, 1884, aged seventy- settled in Haycock township, this county, one years, bore him three sons and three

where he engaged in farming and lumber- daughters, as follows : John, a farmer and

ing. His son, also named John Nicholas, gardener of Durham township ; Hespert, who was born in Haycock township, and followed served four years in the Civil War, and moved

farming all his life near Keller's Church, to Texas, where, in Mason County, he was

being buried in the churchyard there upon elected to the offices of sheriff and treasurer

his decease. In politics he was a Republi- Alonzo ; Mary, wife of Mahlon Trauger, who

caii, and filled many of the local offices, in- lives in Nockamixon township, this county ; cluding those of school director and super- Elizabeth, deceased, who was the wife of

visor of his township. He was a Lutheran Tobias T. Bean ; and Alice, wife of John in his religious views. He married Mary Moser.

hong, and had a family of five sons and one Alonzo Nicholas, the subject of these lines,

daughter. was reared in Durham township, and re- Peter L. Nicholas, the father of our sub- mained there until 1894. He was there en- ject, was born in Haycock township, and gaged in gardening, general farming and

grew to manhood there and in the adjoining trucking ; he also dealt extensively in hay,

township of Springfield. Shortly after com- baling it and having it shipped into this sec- ing of age, he removed to Durham township, tion from the West. He also bought and settled down on a farm, and in that place was sold grain. Mr. Nicholas has always been engaged for the remainder of his life in agri- very active in Republican politics of the cultural pursuits. He owned a large farm, county and state. He was director of the and could be called very successful. He was poor from 1889 to 1892, and in 1892 was quite active in politics as a Republican, and elected sheriff of the county, taking hold of filled many of the township offices, serving as the duties of that office on the first Monday school director a number of terms. He was in January, 1893, and serving a full three at one time a candidate for the State Assem- years' term. In 1893 he removed to Doyles- bly, but was defeated by only one vote. He town, the county seat, where it was necessary was a kind friend and dutiful citizen. He he should be to perform his work efficiently. was most highly regarded and esteemed by After his term of office as sheriff was over, his neighbors for his many sterling traits of he still continued to live in Doylestown, and character ; he was always lending a helping 1 in 897, with Herbert J. Bean, under the firm hand to some unfortunate one, and would name of Nicholas & Bean, engaged in a real stop ploughing in the middle of the field to estate brokerage business, which arrange- BUCKS COUNTY 105

ment continues to the present. They do a held the office of trustee, and has had a class general business in making collections, ef- in the Sunday School. He is a member of fecting loans, and represent a number of the Treatena O. Ryan Lodge, No. 56, F. & A. old-line insurance companies. There was M., of Frenchtown, N. J., and Pochanoco need for a business enterprise of just this Tribe, No. ()j^ Improved Order of Red Men, sort, and the firm of Nicholas & Bean has at Kintnersville, this county. He was united prospered beyond the sanguine expectations in marriage, March 24, 1872, with Catherine of the partners. Rufe, of Nockamixon township, and they

In September, 1898, Mr. Nicholas assumed have a family of four children, namely : Car- control, rie ; ; Herbert. At the by purchase, of the Gem Folding ; Sadie Isaac and Box Co., in Perkasie, and manufactures present time Mr. Nicholas is making an ag- one of the neatest and handiest lunch boxes gressive campaign for the appointment of on the market. Its points of excellence are Surveyor of the Port of Philadelphia, and many, and render it a favorite with those has the endorsement of many leading poli- who are obliged to carry a. lunch to work ticians of the state. with them. It is constructed of composi' During his term of office as sheriff, Mr. tion material that is free from arsenic and Nicholas superintended the execution of other deleterious substances ; it is trimmed Wallace Burt, a half-breed Indian, on a gal- in leather, presents a very handsome appear- lows that was originally used in Mauch ance, and withal is made to stand years of Chunk, Carbon County, for the execution of wear. In the bottom are placed such articles notorious Molly Maguires in 1877, Burt that cannot damage each other, such as sand- being the eighth condemned man to suflfer wiches, eggs, pickles, etc. ; over these is a on it the extreme penalty of the law. The snug-fitting tray, holding the dessert and a crime for which he was executed was most

flask for coflFee or milk. Over all goes a nap- brutal and cold-blooded : he murdered in kin. Everything stays where it is placed. their bed-chamber with an axe. an aged,

When the lunch is disposed of, the box is unoffending couple, living near Richboro, quickly folded, and can be placed in the coat this county, Samuel M. and Lena Rightly pocket, for it is capable of being reduced by name, and then, when his dastardly deed from eight inches to one inch in height. was done, sought to cover it up" by setting

The box is a most excellent article, and in fire to the bed. Strong circumstantial evi- point of lightness, convenience, and dura- dence went far to fasten the guilt on Burt, bility, has no superior. but the first trial ended in a disagreement of Mr. Nicholas is a member of St. Peter's the jury, and the accused might have escaped Lutheran Church at Riegelsville, this county, if he had not confessed voluntarily to the and has distinguished himself by his hearty deed. It is hard to state what was his support of every good work advanced by the motive, for the money he secured after the church. He was deacon for six years, also murder was not enough to induce a man to 6* :;

io6 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

take human life ; it will probably remain a his active days. He was joined in marriage mystery, for the prisoner would never say with Sarah Tillyer, and they became the anything as to the manner in which he did parents of four children, namely: William,

the deed, or why it was done. On July 26, Elizabeth, Ellen, and John F. The ma- 1894, ten months after the murder, the execu- ternal grandfather of our subject was Ivcwis tion was conducted in the jail-yard, the spec- Hagaman, and he was also a well-to-do

tators being limited to the jurors that brought farmer of Northampton township, and re- in the fatal verdict, two clergymen who at- sided near Newtown. He was wedded to

tended the condemned man, a number of Sarah Wood, and of their children the fol- prominent doctors summoned to perform the lowing grew to maturity: John, Joshua, autopsy after death, the sheriif, Mr. Nicholas, Samuel, Mary, and Sarah. and his assistants, all being sworn in as depu- John F. Finney was born and reared on his ties. eaten and slept well The prisoner had father's farm ; he learned the trade of a car- the night before, and had been prepared for penter and later that of an undertaker, which his exit from this world by Revs. Sheip and he pursued a number of years with marked Moore. He met his fate unflinchingly, and success. He then turned his attention toward

at a few minutes past 1 1 o'clock was launched agricultural pursuits and continued that voca- into eternity by the drop of the trap. Every- tion until his death, which occurred March

thing moved like clockwork, and no hitch 31, 1893. He was one of the leading men of or accident happened to delay the proceed- his qommunity, and enjoyed the respect of ings, or give to the execution the element of many acquaintances throughout the county; horror. he served twenty-five years as justice of the peace, which tends to show the confidence in which he was held by his fellow-citizens. (JOSEPH FINNEY is a prominent and Politically, he upheld the principles of the enterprising business man of the vil- Democratic party both by ballot and by lage of Holland, Pa., of which he is voice. Religiously, his family worshiped in postmaster. He has been engaged in the the Methodist Church. He was joined in flour and feed business since 1888, and is the bonds of wedlock with Mary Hagaman, also the owner of a fine farm of 5 5 acres in a native of Dolington, this county, and she

Northampton township. This highly es- passed from this earth December 17, 1887. teemed citizen was born in the above-men- As a result of this happy marriage the fol- tioned township, November 3, 1849, and is lowing eight children were born to them a son of John F. and Mary (Hagainan) Lewis, who died aged forty-nine years, was Finney. married to Mary Jane Harding ; Sallie is the The grandfather of our subject was Joseph wife of Aaron B. Reeder and they reside near Finney, a prominent farmer of Northampton Pennington, N. J. ; Elizabeth is the wife of township ; he settled many estates during Joshua P. Vanartsdalen of Newportville, Pa.

HON. JAMES PATTEKSON. ,

BUCKS COUNTY 109

Joseph, the subject of this notice ; William and as auditor. Fraternally, he is a member

is a farmer, miner and blacksmith, and of the Doylestown Lodge, No. 245, F. & A.

I. resides in the state of Idaho ; Anna Mary is M.; Northern Star I^odge, No. 34, O. O.

the wife of Andrew Scott of Northampton, F. ; and Curtis Encampment, No. "jj^ of and two children have been born to them, Newtown.

John and Sarah Emma ; Emma M. lives in

Philadelphia ; and Frank, a farmer and carpenter of Montgomery County, Pa., who ON. JAMES PATTERSON, a prom- married Alice Duval. inent and influential farmer of Bris-

Joseph Finney was intellectually trained tol township, Bucks County, and in the public schools of his native township a veterinarian of superior ability, whose por-

and worked about his father's homestead trait is shown on the opposite page, is a until he attained the age of twenty-four highly esteemed citizen of that section which

years ; he then located in the village of he so ably represents in the state legislative

Holland, and in partnership with William halls. He is a son of Jesse and Hilda (Mor- B. Hagaman, embarked in the mercantile gan) Patterson, and was born in Wrightstown

business. This partnership was continued township, Bucks County, June 19, 1843. for a period of three years, when our sub- His grandfather was Jesse Patterson, a ject became sole proprietor; in 1888, Mr. native of England, who was brought to this Finney bought a grist and flour mill, and country in boyhood by his parents, who loca-

a farm of 55 acres of highly cultivated ted in New Jersey ; later Jesse Patterson land. He does all kinds of grinding and came to Bucks County, Pa., where he en-

makes a choice grade of flour ; his favorite gaged in farming. He fought bravely for

make is rye flour. Mr. Finney is an honest, this country in our second war with England,

upright citizen, and his intelligence and in 1 81 2. His companion along the pathways worth are greatly appreciated in his com- of life was Charity Barr, by whom he had munity. two children, one son and one daughter. Mr. Finney was married, in 1876, to Sarah Mrs. Patterson died in 1830, at the age of E. Cornell, a daughter of Benjamin F. and eighty-eight years, and her husband sur- Sallie (Everett) Cornell, the former a native vived her but a few years. of Northampton township, and the latter a Jesse Patterson, the father of our subject,

native of Solebury township, this county. was born in Warwick township in 18 10, and Mr. and Mrs. Finney are the parents of two upon growing to manhood became a farmer children, named as follows : L,afayette C. in Wrightstown township, where he pur- who works in his father's store; and Clar- chased a small farm upon which he resided ence, who died aged five years. In politics, the remainder of his life. He was a power our subject is an unwavering Democrat, and in the political affairs of his town, and was a has served nine years as a school director, Democrat prior to 1865, but in that year he no BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

took sides with the Republican party. He he carried in the pocket of his blouse. The was elected to the office of supervisor and book and the bullet are now in his possession, held other offices of trust. His wife was and he prizes them highly, which his family Hilda Morgan, who was born in this county will continue to do for many generations. in 1820, and was a daughter of Samuel Mor- They will pass them down as heirlooms of

gan ; they had the following issue : Mary, the family to perpetuate his glory and that of born the cause for which he fought. He received May 19, 1838 ; William, September 6,

I/izzie, September 1841 James, the wound on April 2, and it was with small 1839; 19, ;

the subject of this personal history ; Martha, hopes that he was picked up and later con-

March 15, J846; Anna M., July 23, 1849; veyed to the Hairwood Hospital near Wash-

Benjamin, May 11, 1851 ; Henry, September ington, but his sturdy constitution asserted

4, 1857; and Amos, September 26, 1859. Mr. itself, and by May 26, much to the astonish- and Mrs. Patterson were both faithful mem- ment of the attending physicians, he was bers of the Friends' Meeting, and lie buried able to return home, receiving his discharge in the Friends' Burying Ground in Wrights- upon that date. Upon his complete recovery, town township, Bucks County. She was he engaged in farming and continued until

called Home on April i, 1884, and her hus- 1875, when he entered the School of Veter-

band joined her beyond the river of Death in inary Surgery at Trenton, N. J., and took a April, 1886. complete course, being graduated in 1878. James Patterson lived upon the farm with He immediately after began the practice of his parents and attended the common schools his profession in Newportville, Bristol town- until he was fourteen years of age, when he ship, and two years later he purchased his began to work out as a farm hand. He con- present estate of 28 acres, where he has since tinued as such and also remained in school lived and had his office. He readily acquired until 1864, when he enlisted in Co. H., 5th a large and lucrative practice and soon re- Reg., Pa. Vol. Cav., and served until the ceived the patronage of the wealthy class of close of the war, establishing an excellent people residing along the river toward Phila- reputation as a dutiful and daring soldier. delphia. For several years the doctor had

His regiment was immediately sent to the full charge, in his line, of all the stock on

front under General Butler, and participated the Drexel School Farm, and purchased all in many engagements, the principal ones the horses and cows for that establishment. being before Fort Fisher, South Side Rail- He has ever proved himself honest and road, Petersburg, and Richmond. At the straightforward in all of his business trans-

battle of Five Forks he miraculously escaped actions, and is highly respected by all with death by a ball from the gun of a sharp- whom he comes in contact, both in business shooter; it passed through his right arm, and social relations. Since early manhood, through his body not more than one inch he has evinced a keen and lively interest in from his heart, and lodged in a book which affairs of a political nature in his section and ;;;

BUCKS COUNTY III

is a stanch Republican. He has been a horn) Cornell, and grandson of Adrian and school director for nine years ; is a member Lenah (Craven) Cornell. of the Bristol township Republican commit- The great-great-grandfather of this branch tee and has been a delegate to many con- of the Cornell family was Rem Cornell, who ; ventions. In 1894 he was elected to the first settled on the old homestead property

State I^egislature, and was re-elected in 1 896 after coming to this country from Holland, he has won many friends by the able manner being accompanied by three brothers, who in which he has served in that capacity located at Flatbush, Long Island. Adrian while a member of that body he was on the Cornell, the great-grandfather, was born on committees on City Passenger Railways, Cor- the old homestead, and his life's vocation was porations, Military Affairs, and was chairman that of a farmer. His son, Adrian Cornell, of the committee on Compare Bills. was likewise born on the home farm, where

In 1867, Dr. Patterson married Elizabeth he resided throughout life, engaged in the

Wright, of English descent, and a daughter cultivation of the soil. He wedded Lenah of Charles Rhodes and Maria (Vanzant) Craven, of Johnsville, Pa., and they reared

Wright, and a granddaughter of Joshua and the following children : Ellen married James Bersheba (Rue) Wright. The following chil- Krusen; James C. married Judith Everett;

dren blessed their union : Ivillian, the wife John wedded a Miss Bean ; Eliza was the

of Chapman Cooper ; May, the wife of John wife of James McNair ; Lydia was married

G. Embree of Chester County ; Charles R. to Henry Wynkoop, and now lives in Upper

and Alice T. Socially, he is a member of Makefield ; Charles married Elizabeth Van-

Captain H. Clay Beatty Post, No. 73, G. A. zant, and Mary Jane, now a resident of Upper R., of Bristol; of Bristol lyodge, No. 25, F. Makefield township, who was twice married,

& A. M.; and an ex-member of the Odd Fel- her first husband being Francis Vanartsdalen, low I/odge of Hulmeville. He was one of and her second James Boilean. Adrian Cor- the organizers and is a director of the Bristol nell, the father of our subject, was born on Driving Association. the Cornell homestead, where he spent most

of his life tilling the soil, being one of the prosperous and well to-do agriculturists of the community. During the latter years of

/^TeORGE W. CORNELL, a gentle- his life—from 1 860 to 1 870—he was engaged

Vf> I man in the prime of life and an en- as a traveling salesman. He was prominently terprising citizen of Northampton township, known in this county and served as president

Bucks County, Pa., is residing on the old of the Bucks County Agricultural Society Cornell homestead, which was founded by many years, always taking an unusual amount the great-great-grandfather of our subject. of interest in such organizations. He de-

He was born at his present place October 17, parted this life in 1870, and his wife died in

1 84 1, and is a son of Adrian and Mary (Van- 1893. She was also a native of Northampton 112 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIKS

township, and they became the parents of one (Hageman) Feaster, was born October 30, child, George W., the subject of this bio- 1772, and died July 18, i860. In 1801 he graphy. married Matilda Cornell, who died December

George W. Cornell always remained at 22, 1858, and they had a daughter Martha, home and spent his youthful days in attend- who was the mother of our subject's wife. ing the schools of the neighborhood and of Martha Feaster was born March 17, 1822, Hartsville, attending school at the latter and became the wife of Joseph C. Camm, place for three years. In i860 he entered February 8, 1843. Joseph C. Camm was of into partnership with his father, and upon English descent, and was born in Philadel- the latter's death took entire charge of the phia August 10, 1819, subsequently coming farm. The Cornell homestead is one of the to Northampton township, Bucks County, most beautiful in Bucks County, and con- where he became the owner of the old his sists of 17s acres of rich and productive land. toric homestead of Judge Henry Wynkoop.

In connection with general farming, he car- There is an interesting romance connected ries on dairying to a large extent; he is a with this house, concerning James Monroe good neighbor and an excellent citizen, com- afterwards President of the United States. manding the respect and good-will of all who In the Revolutionary War he was a lieuten- know him. ant in the American Army, and, having re- Mr. Cornell has been twice united in the ceived a wound, he was sent by General bonds of matrimony ; his first wife was Sallie Washington to the home of Judge Wynkoop

I^ukens of Newtown, who died in June, 1873. to recuperate; while a guest at the latter's His second union was with Elizabeth B. house, he fell deeply in love with his daugh- Camm, of Northampton township, and a ter, then a lass of fourteen, and after the daughter of Joseph C. and Martha (Feaster) close of the war, some six years later, he Camm. On the maternal side of the family, made a second visit in company with General she is a descendant from a very prominent Washington and General Lafayette. While family of Bucks County, the Feasters having the latter two were discussing the future of been located here for almost two centuries. the American Republic with the learned Feaster, John the earliest known ancestor, Judge, Colonel Monroe was scouring the was born in Holland in 1708, and with his surrounding country on horseback with the wife Rachel came to America, locating in daughter of the host, always accompanied by Bucks County. She was born in 1706, and a young physician. He finally determined died on May 28, 1774. He died December to ask for the daughter's hand, and in fact One of their 19, 1775- sons, David Feaster, did so before making his departure, but the born April married 8, 1740, Mary Hageman Judge as kindly as possible told him that she in September, and died 1768, on September had been promised to the young doctor. 30, 1808. She was born in 1743, and died in This did not sadden his life for long, how- 1783. Aaron, a son of David and Mary ever, as a few years later he was united in ;

BUCKS COUNTY 113

marriage with a lady, who became the first township, where he followed his occupation lady of our country. Mr. Camm and his for some time, when he returned to Doyles-

wife became the parents of five children : town and there resided for a period of twenty William, who died at the age of four years years. At the expiration of that time he Matilda, the wife of Dr. William T. Sudler, moved to Glendon, Northampton County,

a resident of Delaware ; Elizabeth, our sub- where he has since been engaged in agricul- ject's wife and Addie, the wife tural pursuits. He was united in hymeneal Edward ; of ; Isaac T. Vanartsdalen, of Newtown. Mr. bonds with Susan Large, who departed this

Camm died December 31, 1897, and his wife life in February, 1892, and they became the

on March 2, 1897. parents of four children, as follows : Emma, Religiously, our subject and his wife take the wife of Peter Dumont, who lives in Craw-

a deep interest in church work and are ford, N. J., but is a salesman in New York

prominent members of the Dutch Reformed City ; Samuel, the subject of this biograph-

Church. Politically, he is a solid Republi- ical record ; Harry, who married Hannah

can, as were hisfatherand grandfather before Barner of Hilltown, is a farmer and is en- him. gaged in the manufacture of fertilizers and in dealing in hides and tallow at Glendon, Northampton County, where he resides with

his father ; and Willis, who resides with his [AMVEl, BERGER, who is located father and brother, Harry, on the farm at on the old Fulmer place, a fine Glendon, was married to Amelia Barner, by farm of 56 acres in Hilltown town- whom he has one daughter. Amy. All of ship, operates a hide and tallow factory, these children were reared under Christian besides carrying on general farming. He is influences, and given good educations in the one of the good, substantial, and progressive public schools and in the Doylestown High citizens of the township and is widely known School.

throughout the county. He is a son of Levi Samuel Berger, after completing his intel- and Susan (Large) Berger, and was born in lectual training, worked upon the farm and Gardenville, Bucks County, Pa., February resided at home with his parents until he

8, 1856. was twenty-eight years old, when he was mar- Levi Berger, the father of our subject, was ried and immediately after located in Doyles- born in Durham, Bucks County, where he town, where he was employed in a tannery grew to manhood, and then located in Plum- by Francis Lydin. He acquired a thorough stead township, whence he subsequently knowledge of the business, and at the end of moved to Doylestown. He was reared upon four years purchased the establishment and the farm and chose farming as his life occu- conducted it alone for two years. Having pation, coming to be a very prosperous man. disposed of it at the expiration of that time,

From Doylestown he moved to Solebury he was employed in various capacities for 114 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

the succeeding two years. He then moved ACOB B. ROSENBERGER. Among to Hilltown township and purchased Ihe Ful- the successful and enterprising busi- mer place, upon which he has since resided. ness men of Hilltown township, Bucks

He has added many improvements in the way County, Pa., is the gentleman whose name

of wells, barns, and out-buildings, and carries heads this brief notice, who is now the owner on farming by modern methods. He raises of a mercantile store at Dublin, and who has wheat, rye, oats, hay, and corn, and, because been connected with that line of business

he has a thorough understanding of the na- more or less all his life. This highly

ture and requirements of these products, his esteemed citizen is also postmaster of the land yields as much to the acre as any land village, and one of the leading men of his in the county. In 1894, he erected a hide community. He was born in this county,

and tallow factory upon his estate, and has January 8, 1847, and is a son of Isaac and also been engaged in the manufacture of fer- Susanna (Bishop) Rosenberger and grandson tilizers, turning out two brands, the L,ehigli of Eli Rosenberger. and Sandow, which are used throughout the Eli Rosenberger, the grandfather of our county. He is possessed of excellent busi- subject, was a resident of Rockhill township, ness capacities, being shrewd, energetic and this county, where he owned a large tract of ambitious, and has won his way to the front land and followed the vocation of a farmer. rank among the young and hustling business The maternal grandfather of our subject,

men of his community. Jacob Bishop, who passed from this life while On January 30, 1885, he was united in a young man, was also a farmer of this marriage with Sallie Shive, a daughter of county; he was married to Anna Fretz, a Martin and Catherine (Sorver) Shive. Mr. native of Bucks County. Isaac Rosenberger,

Shive was a native of Haycock township, our subject's father, was born on his father's Bucks County, and his wife of Telford, Pa., farm in Rockhill township, and was there they for where lived many years. He passed reared to manhood. He first learned the to his eternal rest in 1883, and Mrs. Shive is trade of a chairmaker, but finding that occu- now living with our subject and his wife, at pation unsuited to his tastes he discontinued the age of sixty-seven years. Four children it after following it a short time and took to have blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. farming, in which occupation he was very Berger, namely: Walter, born May 30, 1885; successful. Although not active in politics, Carrie, born May 16, 1886, died July 29, he consented to fill the office of school direc- Eliza, born 1887; December 18, 1888; and tor, to which he was elected. Religiously, Harry, born June 28, 1890, died September he was a member of the Mennonite Church. 5, 1 89 1. Socially, he is a member of Lehigh Mr. Rosenberger was well known throughout lyodge, A. I. of O. U. Philadelphia, while in the township and was greatly respected by religious belief he is a member of the Doyles- his fellow countrymen. He was joined in towu Reformed Church. Hymen's bonds with Susanna Bishop, a

MR. AND MRS. GUSTAVUS H. SCH LACHTER. :

BUCKS COUNTY 117

daughter of Jacob Bishop, and to this union township, and has successfully operated the a family of seven children was born, namely same to the present time.

Henry, a prominent farmer of Hilltown In December, 1 874, our subject was united township, was united in marriage with Mary in marriage with Sarah Moyer, a native of A. Shaddinger; Jacob B., our subject; Eli, New Britain township, this county, and a deceased; Isaac, also deceased ; Abraham, who daughter of William F. and Elizabeth Moyer. is farming on the homestead, married Mary Her father, who is now deceased, was a

Godshalk ; Anna was wedded to Edward farmer, and her mother now resides with our

Shaddinger, both are deceased ; and Mary, subject. Three children were born to Mr.

who died . aged twenty-three. Mr. Rosen- and Mrs. Rosenberger, namely: William, berger entered the silent land in 1886 ; his born August 9, 1871, was formerly a grain wife passed from this life two years later. dealer, but is now employed in his father's Jacob B. Rosenberger remained with his store, —he was married December 6, 1896, parents until he became of age, during which to Sallie Hunsicker ; Allen M. was born in period he attended the district school and December, 1881, and Susan May, who was assisted his father in the management of the born in October, 1886. Our subject is a farm. After teaching school several terms solid Republican in politics, and has served he entered the employ of Jonas D. Moyer, of as town auditor several years, a'nd, since

Dublin, and worked with him some two 1 897, has been serving as postmaster of the to village. He has been a director of the years ; when that firm was changed J. S. Rickert & Co., he became a member of the Doylestown National Bank since 1894. Re- ligiously, he and his family are members of firm ; ten years later the firm was known as B. F. Shearer & Co., and business was car- the Merinonite Church at Blooming Glen. ried on under that name for a period of eight years. September 29, 189S, our subject became sole proprietor, and under his management its trade has been greatly increased; /!>USTAVUS H. SCHIvACHTER, one he carries a complete stock of general mer- \^^J[ of the progressive and industrious chandise, ready-made clothing, paints, oils, young farmers of Upper Makefield township, flour and feed. He has been engaged in the Bucks County, is of German descent. He flour and feed business since 1883. Mr. has resided upon his present estate since

Rosenberger has established a reputation for March 17, 1864, the date of his birth, and he honesty and straightforward dealings, and is a son of George and Catherine (Myers) possesses the confidence and esteem of the Schlachter. entire community. In 1889, Mr. Rosen- George Schlachter, the father of our sub- berger purchased what is known as the ject, was born in Germany, and came to the

Detweiler grist and saw mills, which are United States in 1855 ; the first four years in located in the northern part of Hilltown this country were spent in working out by ,:

ii8 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

the month, but after that he bought our sub- May, born May 25, 1896. Mrs. Schlachter is

> ject's present homestead in 1861, and there a member and earnest worker of the Presby- carried on general farming on his own ac- terian Church of New Hope. In politics, our

2 subject is an ardent Democrat. a preced- count. He entered the world of rest July 1 On 1890, and his death was deeply lamented by ing page, in connection with the above life a large circle of acquaintances. He was history, appears a portrait of Mr. and Mrs. joined in the bonds of wedlock with Cath- Schlachter. erine Myers, also a native of Germany, and they became the parents of a family of five children, who were named as follows II.I.IAM BAI.DERSTON. Among Alice, deceased; John, a prominent farmer W^the leading representative families of Wrightstown township, and his wife is of Bucks County, Pa., none are more worthy

Maggie Masten ; Charles, a blacksmith by of special mention in this volume than the trade, has married, and resides in Delaware one of which the gentleman, whose name

County, Pa. ; Caroline, deceased ; and George opens this sketch, is an honored member. H. Our subject's mother departed this world Following agricultural pursuits has been our

February 8, 1881. subject's principal occupation in life, and he

Gustavus H. Schlachter has spent his en- is the owner of a fine farm, handsomely situ- tire life on the farm where he now lives, and ated in I^ower Makefield township, near the his boyhood were days spent attending the village of Dolington ; he is enterprising, district schools of Upper Makefield town- public-spirited, and enjoys the respect and ship. Since his marriage in 1891, he has good-will of many acquaintances throughout had charge of the homestead, and carries on the county. The gentleman whose biography both farming and stock-raising. His farm, we write was born in the above township, consisting of 85 acres, has been put under a January 27, 1821, and is a son of John and fine state of cultivation; the land is fertile Phoebe (lyongshore) Balderston, and grand- and the improvements are all of a first-class son of Timothy Balderston.

order. The Balderston family was founded in this Mr. Schlachter and Anna Masten were country by John Balderston, the great-grand- united in matrimonial bonds March 18, 1891. father of our subject, who was a native of She was born in New Hope, this county, Holland. In 1688 he departed from his na- January 16, 1866, and is a daughter of Elias tive land and went to England, where he

and Elizabeth (Smith) ; Masten the former, remained until 1727, when he came to Amer- is farming who near New Hope, is a native ica. He first located in Wrightstown town- of the state of New York, and the latter is ship, Bucks County, and at the time of his a native of New Hope, Pa. Two children death he was residing in Solebury township. blessed the home of Mr. and Mrs. Schlachter, In 1739 he married Hannah Cooper, by whom as follows: Elias, born January 2, 1892; and he reared seven sons and four daughters, ;

BUCKS COUNTY 119

namely : John, Jonathan, Bartholomew, Tim- ber 20, 181 1, and was the wife of Albert Lam-

othy, Jacob, Joshua, Hannah, Sarah, Mor- bert; Hannah, born September 3, 1813, was

decai, Lydia, and Mary. Timothy, the the wife of George Banninster ; David, born

grandfather of our subject, early in life set- May 13, 181 5, was twice married,—his first tled in Upper Makefield township, this wife was Hannah Margerum, and his second,

county, where he purchased a large tract of Rebecca, a sister of his first wife John I,., ;

land and engaged in agricultural pursuits. deceased, was born March 31, 18 17; William, He was united in marriage with a Miss our subject Jonathan, deceased, was born ;

Twining, and their home was blessed by the February 4, 1823; and Isaiah, born July 9,

birth of ten children, who were named as 1825, and died August 2, 1825. Our subject's

follows : John, Timothy, David, Isaiah, father entered the world of rest, February 20,

Ivydia, Elizabeth, Sarah, Hannah, Mary and 1828, while his mother died. May 10, 1851. Rachel. William Balderston was intellectually John Balderston, our subject's father, was trained in the common schools at home and

born in Upper Makefield township April 13, at Joseph Foulk's boarding school in Mont- 1779, and was reared to agricultural pursuits gomery County, Pa., and at Alexandria, Va. after attaining his majority he began the The father of William died when our subject cultivation of the soil on his own account, was but a lad of seven years, and he remained

living in his native county all his life. with his mother until he attained his man-

He was a prominent Quaker of his day, and hood ; he started out in life as a school teacher, was known throughout his section. He and taught four years at Fallsington, Pa., and was joined in the bonds of wedlock with two years in the Friends' School, near Mount

Phoebe I^ongshore, who was born in Lower Holly, N. J. Returning home in the spring

Makefield township, November 10, 1781, of 1 849, our subject in the same year bought

and to this happy union a family of twelve a farm, near New Egypt, N. J., consisting children was born, most all of whom grew of 168 acres, and carried on general farming to maturity, and were prosperous and well- for a period of ten years. He then leased his

known citizens in the various communities farm until his marriage, in 1 867, and in the in which they resided. They were named as following year he added to his possessions by

follows : James, born August 6, 1805, married buying his present farm in Lower Makefield deceased township. subject has made Elizabeth Kelly, both now ; Tim- Our many im-

othy, born November 1 3, 1 806, died September provements upon the farm since taking pos-

14, 1826; Rachel, deceased, born December session of it, and, in connection with farming,

2^, 1807, was the wife of Z. Force, and they for the past two score of years he has been

lived in Lower Makefield township ; Robert, engaged in cattle buying and selling, and

in March, 1809, died 14, 181 also runs a dairy. Mr. Balderston is a model born July 5 ;

Timothy, born July 6, 18 10, died September farmer, and is an honor to his chosen occupa-

born Septem- tion he is an upright and honest citizen is 7, 1831 ; Sarah, deceased, was ; ; ;

I20 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

progressive and enterprising, and commands subject has been engaged in agricultural pur-

the respect of the citizens in the community suits all his life, and since 1 862 has occupied of which he has so long been a valued the old Cornell homestead, one of the finest

member. farms in the state, which consists of 240 Mr. Balderston was united in the bonds of acres of highly improved land. He was

matrimony with Anna H. Boggs, who was born on his present farm February 14, 1841,

born in Camden, N. J., January 9, 1839, a and is a son of James C. and Judith S. daughter of Francis and Rosanna Boggs. (Everitt) Cornell. Nine children blessed the home of this happy James C. Cornell was born and reared on union, namely: Anna, born March 21, 1868, the old Cornell homestead where George W. is the wife of Andrew Biles, and they have Cornell now resides, and he was educated to

two children, Stanley and Olive; Emma, farming, which occupation he followed all

born February 23, 1869, died young; Olive, his active days. After his marriage, he

born July 7, 1870, is at home; Frances, Sep- moved to the farm now occupied by our

tember 19, 1872 ; Martha, September 4, 1874; subject, and there spent the remainder of his I,aura, February 1876 Julia, 29, ; January 19, life. He entered the world of rest in 1865 Edith, 1878 ; October 14, 1879 ; and William at the age of sixty-three. He was widely Penn, June 27, 1881. The wife of our sub- known throughout the country for his many ject was called to rest on February 26, 1895, sterling qualities, and was interested in all and her demise was deeply felt by a large movements that tended to promote the gen- circle of friends and relatives, who held her eral welfare of his county and township. in dear esteem. She was a kind and true Politically, he was a loyal Republican, but wife and mother, and an excellent neighbor. did not take an active interest in politics. Politically, Mr. Balderston has always sup- He served a number of years as president ported the principles of the Republican party, of the Bucks County Agricultural Society. and has served as a school director in his He was united in marriage with Judith S. township. Religiously, he is a devoted mem- Everitt of I^ambertsville, N. J., and they ber of the Society of Friends. became the parents of ten children, namely: Julia Ann married Charles V. Cornell, and they reared two children, Thompson and Rachael; Joseph W., a retired citizen of mI HEODOREHEC CORNEIvIv. The family, Rockville, Pa., married Eveline Cooper by eLL of which the gentleman whose name whom he had two children, William and heads this personal history is a worthy repre- lyinford; Elizabeth is the wife of Charles sentative, is an old and well-established one Knight of Churchville, Pa. ; Hiram, a com- in this county, and has been prominently mission merchant of Churchville, was wed- identified with the progress and development ded to Henriette Fetter; Sarah, deceased; of Bucks County for the past century. Our Henriette, deceased ; Levi, also deceased ;

BUCKS COUNTY 121

John, who was killed by a horse in 1866, was contracted with Lettia Yardley, a sister

was married to Mary Jane Craven, and two of his first wife; she died in November, children were born to them, Elmer and 1894. He was the father of a family of ten

John ; Theodore, the subject of this sketch children, namely: a farmer, married ; Joseph, and Ivouisa, who married Dr. John Kuight, Mary Ann Watson of Middletown, Pa. ; a practicing physician of Fox Chase, Pa., Mary, deceased; William, deceased; Sarah

and a family of four children were born to Elizabeth, who died in 1865, was the wife them, —Joseph Ryers, Charles, Clarence, de- of William Livezey; Franklin, who died in ceased, and George. 1883, married Rachael Smith; Frederick,

Theodore Cornell remained under the pa- deceased ; Anna, the wife of our subject

rental roof until he attained his majority Willis and Edward, both deceased ; and Ella, and received his elementary education in the the wife of Frank Vanhorn. Our subject public schools of his native township. He and wife have been blessed by the birth of began farming on Jiis own account after his three children, namely: Eva B., born De-

marriage ; in connection with general farm- cember 15, 1867, is the wife of Ellis Tomlin-

ing he is also engaged in the dairy busi- son, a farmer of Northampton township ; J. ness, making on an average 100 pounds of Russell, born December 21, 1869, who is at

butter per week, and has regular customers home; and Walter L., born in 1881, de- in Philadelphia. He has followed that busi- ceased. Politically, Mr. Cornell has always

ness for the past two score of years. The supported the Republican party ; fraternally,

home of our subject is one of the most beau- he is a member of the Newtown Lodge, No.

tiful in Bucks County and the improvements 427, F. & A. M. Mrs. Cornell is a member are among the best; in 1885, he erected a of the Friends' Meeting at Newtown. brown stone house, with all the modern conveniences, such as hot and cold water, gas,

and bath. Mr. Cornell is an honor to his

chosen occupation ; he is honest and upright ILLIAM W. HALL. This worthy in ail his dealings ; is performing all the W^and esteemed gentleman of Plum- obligations of a dutiful citizen ; and enjoys, stead township is a descendant of one of the as he deserves, the confidence and esteem of oldest families in Eastern Pennsylvania. He a wide circle of acquaintances. was reared to agricultural pursuits, in which

Mr. Cornell was married February 20, 1 866, he' continues to be occupied, and he resides to Anna -Buckman, a daughter of Levi and on one of the best improved farms in his sec-

Ellen (Yardley) Buckman, the former a tion ; he is also justice of the peace of Plum- native of Middletown, Pa., and the latter of stead township, which office he has held since Makefield. Levi Buckman was a farmer 1887. Our subject was born in Buckingham and drover and died in 1893 ; his wife died township, this county, November 2, 185 1, and in 1850. Mr. Buckman's second marriage is a son of Benjamin and Sarah (Carlisle) Hall. ;

122 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

William Hall, the paternal ancestor of our Ivater he came to Mechanics Valley, this subject, with his brother emigrated from his county, where he clerked in the store owned native country, England, to America with by his brother Thomas. In partnership with William Penn. He became the owner of a his brother Moses, he went to Buckingham, tract of land in West Philadelphia, which is and embarked in the mercantile business now a park, where the Centennial Exposition four years later he purchased his present was held in 1 876. This was the home of the homestead, where he followed the vocation Halls for many generations, where they were of a farmer for thirteen years. He then re- engaged in agricultural pursuits. William entered the mercantile business, opening a Hall and family were members of the Society store at Smith's Corner, this county, which of Friends. His son Mahlon and grandson he conducted some two years, when he went Mahlon were both reared on this farm, and to Mechanics Valley, and embarked in a like were successful farmers ; the latter built a business for a period of six years. In 1875

substantial stone dwelling, which is still he returned to the homestead near Danboro,

standing, and an old landmark of that section Plumstead township, and, in addition to car- of the country. Mahlon Hall, a great-grand- rying on general farming, owns a large herd

son of William Hall, is the grandfather of our of milch cows and ships milk to Philadel-

subject, and came to Bucks County at an phia. He is a member of the Society of

early day, and followed the trade of a black- Friends politically, he is a stanch Repub- ; smith one year. Then, in partnership with lican. He was married to Sarah Carlisle, a his brother, he purchased a farm in West daughter of Benjamin Carlisle, a prominent Philadelphia, and, after farming there a num- farmer and Friend of the central section of ber of years, he returned to Bucks County, the county. Two sons and one daughter and at the time of his death was residing in resulted from the union, of whom one son Doylestown township. He was eighty years and a daughter died in infancy. of age when he passed from this life. He William W. Hall was the oldest child born was twice married, his first wife being to his parents, and he was reared on his Hannah P. Hampton, who bore him a family father's farm and attended the district schools of five children. His second wife was Isa- of Plumstead township. Our subject was bella Robinson, and to this union twelve thirteen years of age when the Civil War broke children were reared. out ; he and four companions, all of the same Benjamin Hall, the father of our subject, age, left their homes and went to Philadelphia, was born in Buckingham township, this where they offered their services in defence county, September 30, 1823, and is the third of the Union, but owing to their ages they child born to his father's first wife. While a were refused enlistment. Returning home he young man he worked for his uncle, who clerked in a store at Buckingham eight years, resided in West Philadelphia, where he drove and then returned to the farm, where he has a milk wagon to the city for many years. since carried on farming in a successful manner.

JOSEPH W. REITER. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 125

Mr. Hall is a very loyal Republican, and subject was born at Trumbauersville, Milford

has contributed much toward the success of township, January 5, 1853, ^n^ is a son of

his party in his community ; in 1887 he was Tobias and Edith (Wonsidler) Reiter, grand- elected justice of the peace, which position son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Heist) Reiter, he has continued to hold to the present time. and great-grandson of Michael and Elizabeth

Religiously, he is a member and active sup- (Sack) Reiter. porter of the Society of Friends ; socially, he Michael Reiter, with his brothers John and

is a member of the I. O. R. M., in which he George, left his native country. Saxony, Ger-

has filled all the chairs, and was elected five many, and came to America about 1790 ; the terms as the representative of the local lodge two brothers settled in the western part of

to the Great Council ; he is also a member the state, while Michael located in Montgom- and past chief of the Knights of the Golden ery County, near the village of Hanover. He Eagle, in which he has filled all the chairs. In followed the occupation of a farmer, and died

1 880 our subject was wedded to Anna M. Fry, at the age of seventy years. He was married a daughter of the late Michael Fry, of Foun- to Elizabeth Sack, who died at the age of

tainville, this county, and they are the parents eighty years ; they were members of the

of the following children : Chester Arthur Lutheran Church. To this union the fol-

Roscoe T. ; Minnie Blanche, deceased ; War- lowing children were born, namely : George ;

; .Florence Ethel; Norman D.; ren Russell Michael Joseph ; Samuel Jonathan Lydia; ; ; ; deceased, and Sarah. Aleta Fry ; Eleanor E., Helen ; and Maria. Joseph Reiter, the grandfather of our sub-

ject, was born on his father's farm in Mont- gomery County, and resided there many years, 'OSEPH W. REITER. Among the carrying on agricultural pursuits. Later he prominent and enterprising citizens moved to Trumbauersville, where he kept a

of Bucks County is the gentleman hotel, it being located where Henry F. Reiter

it the direct whose biography we write, and whose por- now resides ; was on road to Phil-

trait appears on the opposite page, who is adelphia, and it was the stopping place for one of the most reliable business men of the all the farmers who drove into the city. He

village of Cressman, and is a member of the also dealt in cattle, buying and selling to the

of his ; he raised sheep, well-known firm of J. W. Reiter & Co., farmers community known as the Fidelity Manufacturing Com- and carried on farming to a certain extent. pany, the largest cigar manufacturers in the His marriage with Elizabeth Heist, a daugh- northwestern section of the county. The ter of George Heist, resulted in the birth of

the following children : Tobias Josiah honesty of the proprietors of this establish- ; ; Ed- and Maria. died at the ment is never questioned, and the prosperity ward ; He age of with which it is meeting is solely due to seventy-seven years, while his wife lived to their integrity and untiring industry. Our be over ninety years old. 126 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIKS

Tobias Reiter was born at Red Hill, Mont- story frame house, 24 by 36 feet, and carried

gomery County, Pa., August ii, 1825, and on the business until April i, 1877, when followed farming in his early days in his they dissolved partnership and our subject

native township, and later bought a farm became sole proprietor; October i, 1883, F. near Trumbauersville, where he carried on W. Brunner became a partner, and they dis-

general farming the rest of his active days solved partnership July i, 1885, our subject ; he built the present house and barn, and continuing alone. In the same year he em- made many other improvements upon, his barked in the mercantile business with David farm, which property he sold to his son, Ed- T. Breisch and also established the Fidelity in ward W., 1878, and retired. He. is the Cigar Manufacturing Company ; in 1893, our oldest man in his vicinity, enjoys splendid subject sold his mercantile store and has

health for one of his years, is still active and devoted his entire attention to his present

hearty, and is highly esteemed and respected business. The present firm employs as high

by many acquaintances. He is a stanch Dem- as 120 hands, who turn out 400,000 cigars

ocrat in politics, and has held many township per month ; they deal in Havana and Su-

offices. He is a member and past chancellor matra leaf tobacco ; and also handle fancy

of the K. of P. ; religiously, he is a member domestic fillers, packing presses, and Chas- of the Lutheran Church. He was thrice kell's cigar flavors. The firm owns several

married ; his first wife, Edith Wonsidler, large warehouses in Cressman ; one at Easton,

whom he wedded in 1848, was a daughter of Pa. ; one at Cato, N. Y. ; and one at Janes- George Wonsidler; she died in 1865, aged ville. Wis. In 1883, Mr. Reiter built his forty years. They were the parents of the present house, and later erected warehouses

following children : Alfred and Maria, de- on the same property ; he also owns two ceased ; Joseph W., the subject of these lines other houses in Cressman, ; a single and a

Edward W. , who resides on the homestead double tenement ; house. and Henry and Tobias, both deceased. His Mr. Reiter was wedded to Mary Benner, of second marriage occurred in 1866, to Sarah Milford township, a daughter of David Ben- Cressman, a daughter of Abraham Cressman, ner, and they are the parents of four children, and she died in aged fifty-four 1874, years. namely : Maurice Revellen, deceased ; Frank- He was married a third time to Christina lin Pierce, a bookkeeper residing in Phila- Steifel, a daughter of Jacob Steifel. delphia ; and Katie M. and Jennie Victoria,

Joseph W. Reiter, at the age of fifteen students. Fraternally, he is a member of years, commenced to learn the trade of a Saucon Lodge, No. 469, F. & A. M., of which cigarmaker, and at the same time attended he is also past master ; and is a member, past the public schools. He followed his trade chancellor, keeper of records and secretary of until 1873, when he entered into partnership the K. of P. Lodge, No. 372. Mr. Reiter has with J. W. Brunner, under the firm name of been a resident of Cressman the major por- Reiter & Brunner; in 1874 they built a 2^^ tion of his life, and as a business man has BUCKS COUNTY 127

won the highest respect of the mercantile salem township, this county, was born Janu- and manufacturing classes. He is a careful, ary 8, 1786, in Philadelphia. Nicholas Bid- shrewd and upright business man, and a dle at a very early age began his education respecter of the rights of others. As a citi- in an academy, from which he was sent to zen, he is pleasant, affable, and approachable, the University of Pennsylvania ; in that with a ready good will to enter into anything institution he assiduously prosecuted his that stands for the public good. He knows studies with the result that he had finished how to get and hold customers, and those the required course, and was ready to take who deal with Mr. Reiter know that when he his degree in 1799, but was prevented from

says a piece of goods is so and so, the article doing so, because of his extreme youth, will every time come up to the recommen- being then only thirteen years of age. This dation. occasioned his beifag sent to Princeton Col-

lege, where he remained two years and a half, being graduated in September, 1801. His college course was brilliant almost SThE BIDDLE FAMIIvY, which has beyond parallel, and prepared those who witnessed it, comprising several who later (, I been domiciled in Pennsylvania for public of great two centuries, is one of the best known in became well known men the state, and through its talented members, ability, for the subsequent and loftier tri- who have figured prominently in all the rela- umphs of his intellect. His standing and the highest order, as is tions of life, has aided in making the history scholarship were of of Pennsylvania and the United States. As shown by the fact that he, though the ever lawyers, jurists, soldiers, and as distinguished youngest person it is understood that servants of the people in many a position of graduated before or since from that college, public trust, they have valiantly labored for shared the first honors of the class with Virginia, a gentleman the right and truth as they saw it. No Edward Watts of delivered the more patriotic men have ever served their much his senior. Mr. Biddle country than those who bore the name of valedictory oration at commencement. Upon the Biddle. As prominent citizens of Bucks leaving college, he applied himself to and Philadelphia Counties, they have dis- study of law. About this time, his abilities charged every obligation of dutiful citizens attracted the attention and excited the ad- Colonel Burr, predicted for and trusted public officials. The very name miration of who a career of brilliance. In 1804, when is in Philadelphia a synonym for honesty him appointed minister and adherence to the paths of duty. General Armstrong was Nicholas Biddle, father of Judge Craig of the United States to France, he took grand- Nicholas Biddle with him as his secretary, Biddle, and Charles J. Biddle, and three years in Europe. His father of Charles Biddle, the latter a lawyer and remained in France was one of extraordi- of Philadelphia, whose residence is in Ben- residence 128 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIKS

nary interest, as it embraced the career of views ; one of the first measures undertaken Napoleon, when he was in the height of his by Mr. Biddle was for the establishment of a power, and also the complicated relations system of popular education. He urged the between the United States and France. The scheme with zeal and power, but he was in examination of claims of this country on advance of the times, for the Commonwealth France, and the payment of the same, de- was not prepared to endorse or adopt such volved almost entirely on the young secre- novelties. The school law of 1836 was the

tary. The French officers were men ripe ripe fruit of Mr. Biddle's bill of 181 1. He in years, while Mr. Biddle was then but refused re-election and retired from public

eighteen years of age, and even more juve- life, and devoted his time to his studies and nile in his appearance than his years would to agricultural work, for which he had ever

indicate. The advent among these grave manifested a decided predilection. In 1 8 14, he dignitaries of this youthful depository of so was elected to represent the city and county

important a trust was viewed with wonder, of Philadelphia in the State Senate; at this that was increased when they found him time, of the seven brothers composing his performing his arduous duties with the abil- family one was an officer in the navy (Com- ity, firmness, and perseverance of a veteran modore James Biddle), two were in the regular statesman. He then went to England, where army, three were in active service in the mili- he joined James Monroe, then United States tia, while Nicholas, the youngest, was serving Minister to England, and afterwards Presi- in the Senate. Philadelphia: was then threat- dent of the United States, whom he served ened with invasion by British forces, and in the capacity of secretary. Mr. Biddle presented a measure in the Senate,

Nicholas Biddle returned to his native that provided for paying bounties to sailors land in the autumn of 1807, and commenced to man the floating batteries for the defense the practice of law. In the fragments of of the city, the purchase of arms, the levy of time saved from more severe pursuits, he a permanent military force of 8,000 men, occasionally relaxed his mind with contribu- and a loan on the credit of the Common- tions to the scientific and literary periodicals wealth to defray the expenses of these meas- of the day. He prepared and wrote for Mr. ures. All these provisions were adopted. Clarke the history of Lewis & Clarke's expe- In 1817, Mr. Biddle, after a legislative career dition across the continent of America Paul ; that exhibited great genius, retired volun- Allen piloted this work through the press. tarily from the Senate, before the expiration winter of 1810-11 The he spent in Lancaster of his term. In the following year, however, as of the one representatives of the city of he was nominated by the Democratic party Philadelphia in the State Legislature. In to represent the city and county of Philadel- this new sphere of action he at once assumed phia in Congress, but he was defeated at the a commanding position, and proved himself polls, because his party was in the minority. a statesman of enlarged and enlightened This was repeated in 1820 with the same re- BUCKS COUNTY 129

suit. In 1 819, Mr. Biddle first became con- guished itself in its zealous and heroic nected with the Bank of the United States. espousal of the cause of Independence. Com- The institution of that name was considered modore Nicholas Biddle was blown up with

in great jeopardy, its president had resigned, his ship " Randolph," when in an action and its affairs had become sadly deranged. with the English man-of-war, "Yarmouth."

Mr. Biddle was nominated as a director of In the War of 181 2, the entire family was the Bank by President Monroe, without Mr. given to the country, and Charles Biddle, Biddle's knowledge, he having previously father of Nicholas, was throughout the con-

declined being a director on the part of the test eminent for his active services and firm stockholders. He accepted this nomination devotion to the cause. At the birth of of the President as a public duty, and in con- Nicholas Biddle, his father was vice-presi- junction with Mr. I^angdon Cheves labored dent of the Commonwealth of which Benja-

with great industry in arranging its affairs, min Franklin was president. Edward Bid- and re-establishing the character of the in- dle, uncle of Nicholas, served as a captain in

stitution. In 1 82 1, Mr. Biddle removed per- the sanguinary war of 1756. He too was manently to his farm in Bucks County. In among the foremost advocates of Independ- 1823 he was appointed a director of the ence, and was elected a representative from

Bank on tlie part of the United States, and Pennsylvania to Congress in 1774. He was for over ten years he was successively nomi- afterwards speaker of the House of Repre- nated to the office as a government director. sentatives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Biddle was president of the Agricul- Charles John Biddle, son of Nicholas, was

tural Society of Philadelphia and president born in Philadelphia, April 30, 1819, and of the Board of Trustees of Girard College. was admitted to the Philadelphia County

The credit has been given to him for nmch Bar, November 21, 1840. He had received

of the success of this College ; it was espe- a classical education in Princeton College,

cially due to his exertions that the building and was a fine scholar, fully read in all the was erected. He was determined that the literature of the English and other languages. structure should be built for posterity, and After his admission to the bar, he went to the result was that one of the most beauti- Europe, and spent a considerable period in ful and imposing of modern buildings was traveling and studying. Upon his return to

erected. In public life, he won distinction this country, he took up the practice of law, his and engaged in professional as a speaker ; elocution was exceedingly was duties until graceful and polished. In 181 1 he married, the outbreak of the Mexican War, when he and to him were born six children. His applied for a commission in the regular ancestors came to this country with William army, then to be increased in force, and was Penn, and participated in all the privations accordingly appointed a captain in the new of the early settlers. When the War of the regiment of voltigeurs. He was not without Revolution broke out, the family distin- military experience, for he had been for I30 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

about three years a member of one of the lic safety for Philadelphia, and acted as prize volunteer militia companies raised in Phila- commissioner in cases of naval capture until delphia, in consequence of the destructive he joined the army on the first organization and dangerous riots of 1844. That he was of the Pennsylvania Volunteers. He was at impelled in this course was but natural, for first lieutenant-colonel, but soon became the his family had distinguished itself in every colonel of a regiment, known as the " Buck- American war. He proved himself a most tails," which he brought in a very short capable officer, and kept his men in the best time to a state of serviceable discipline.

of shape throughout the campaign. He was While in the field he was elected on July 2,

engaged with distinction in most of the 1 86 1, a representative from Philadelphia to hard-fought battles on the line of General Congress, but would not take his seat until Scott's approach to the City of Mexico from December, when he felt free to resign his Vera Cruz. Just before the storming of command, the army having gone into winter Chapultepec, he was taken very sick with a quarters. He was offered a commission as a malarial fever, that sapped the strength of his brigadier-general, but declined it on the body, that was never in very robust health, and ground that he owed a duty to his constit- left him weak and helpless. On the morn- uents who had elected him to Congress. ing of the battle, he was left alone on a pallet Afterwards, when Pennsylvania was threat-

on the floor of a ranch house, his brother offi- ened with invasion, he volunteered as a pri-

cers and attendants having left him to attend vate, and was temporarily assigned to his to their own pressing duties. When the former brevet rank of major, and served until noise of the cannonading came to him, all the disbandment of the forces raised for the

his lethargy was driven off, he seemed to be occasion. He was ever a stanch Democrat,

given a new lease of life ; crawling to the and opposed to any infringements on per- door, he sees a horse, saddled and bridled, sonal liberty; indeed, his political rule was standing near by motionless from weakness that men should mind their business, ; own with great exertions he gets into the saddle, and should be prevented from interfering and urges the decrepit old creature to the with business not their own. He continued front with a musket ramrod. Appearing as a member of the Thirty-seventh Congress

before his command, he is greeted with until 1 863, when he returned to the practice of cheers, and is followed in the charge on the law, which he finally relinquished, in 1868, to heights, he being the second American upon become the editor of a daily newspaper. The the fortification. For this gallantry in action Age. He was the editor and one of the proprie-

he was brevetted a major of the United tors of the paper when he died, September 28, States Army. In 1848, Mr. Biddle resumed 1873, at the age of fifty-four. He was widely the practice of law, and continued to be thus mourned as a virtuous citizen, an accomplished engaged until the Civil War broke out in scholar, an eloquent and elegant speaker 1 86 1. He was one of the committee of pub- and writer, a patriot, a hero and a statesman. BUCKS COUNTY 131

Hon. Craig Biddle, president judge of the chair of judge of the Court of Common

Court of Common Pleas, No. i, the youngest Pleas, greatly to the satisfaction of the Phil- son of Nicholas Biddle, and maternal grand- adelphia Bar and the general public. In the son of John Craig, from whom he takes his succeeding June, he was nominated by the christian name, was born in Philadelphia, Republicans of the judicial district for the

January 10, 1823. He was given the benefit full term, and against an excellent Demo- of a thorough education at Princeton College, cratic nominee, the late E. Coppee Mitchell, New Jersey, from which he was graduated Esq., he received the largest majority on the ill 1841. Entering as a student-at-law in the ticket. Upon the conclusion of his term. office of John Cadwalader, Esq., afterwards Judge Biddle was renominated by both the judge of the United States District Court, he leading parties, and was unanimously elected

was admitted to the Philadelphia Bar in in November, 1885 ; again in 1895 he was

December, 1844. He early took an active elected, and is now in his third term. interest in politics as an adherent of the Judge Biddle was for ten years president Whig party, and was elected to the Penn- of the Philadelphia Agricultural Society, sylvania House of Representatives, in which and has always taken a great interest in

he served his constituents during the ses- farming ; he own a fine farm in Andalusia, sions of 1849-50. He was distinguished for Bensalem township, Bucks County, that has the proposition and support of several im- been in the possession of the family for five portant enactments, referring principally to generations. his own county. He was afterwards clerk of Judge Biddle is very popular with the Bar, the Common Council of Philadelphia. At the the younger members finding him ready to outbreak of the War of the Rebellion, Mr. give assistance, when with unexperienced Biddle offered his services to the Common- hands they present their cases before him, wealth, and was commissioned major on the and the older members are always certain staff of General Patterson. In this post he that he will apply to the decision of their served through the three months' campaign cases the sterling good sense and discretion in the Shenandoah Valley, and was then for which he is particularly remarkable. transferred to the staff of Governor Curtin. Naturally gifted with a judicial mind, he He enlisted as a private in the Gray Re- quickly distinguishes the cardinal points of serves, during I^e's invasion of Maryland in a case, and by this making his opinions 1863. After the war, Mr. Biddle resumed noted for the brevity and clearness with the practice of law, and achieved prominence which he disposes of the knotty questions of for his knowledge of legal principles, and law presented. Not a few of his decisions his skill in directing cases. Upon the elec- are now quoted as defining the law upon tion of Judge Paxson to the Supreme Bench, questions of much intricacy and doubt, nota-

Mr. Biddle was appointed, January 12, 1875, bly in the case of Brinkley vs. Brinkley, by Governor Hartranft to fill the vacant where the law of marriage in Pennsylvania ;:

132 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

was laid down with a terseness and force that tional Bank. Religiously, he was a consist- won encomiums from both the Bench and ent member of the Reformed Church, being Bar. Ivikewise in the case of the Common- a regular attendant on divine worship. As a

wealth vs. Fletcher, the popular belief that result of his union with Miss Snyder, he be- drunkenness was an excuse for murder was came the father of the following children

exploded in language so forcible and clear as Eva, deceased ; Elizabeth, deceased ; Elias, to do away forever with an error dangerous deceased Jacob, deceased John, who resides ; ;

alike to the peace and safety of every citizen. with our subject ; Catherine, the relict of the Many other cases of equal importance might late Francis D. Hartzel, who lives in Chalfont,

also be cited to illustrate his ability as a Pa. ; Levi, whose name heads these lines jurist. The mantle of ancestry, noted for and Amelia, who is also deceased. After the their bravery and uprightness, has fallen demise of his wife in 1833, Mr. Shellenberger upon him, and he ranks with the highest of formed a second alliance with Mrs. Savacole, Philadelphia's judges as a man fearless and of Rockhill township, and they reared one independent of public sentiment or excite- son, Henry H., who married Sarah GrofF, and

ment. Judge Biddle is a member and vice- is engaged in farming on the old homestead. president of the Philadelphia Historical So- Mr. Shellenberger was called to his final rest

ciety; member of the Philosophical Society; April 29, 1882, and his worthy wife survived president of the Alumni of Princeton College ; him three years. president of the Rittenhouse Club ; director of Levi Shellenberger was reared on the farm

the Philadelphia I/ibrary ; and one of the man- and obtained his intellectual training in the agers of Hand-in-Hand Insurance Company. public schools, after which he worked upon his father's farm until he was twenty-five years of age. He was then married and took up farming on his own account, at which he fEVI SHELLENBERGER, who is the continued until 1868, when he purchased his well-known proprietor of a hotel at present hotel property in Hagersville, and

—i*^ Hagersville, East Rockhill town- has since conducted it in a very successful

ship, Bucks County, was born in Hilltown manner. He is of a genial and good-natured township, June 19, 1831, and is a son of John disposition and never fails to extend a hearty L,. and Catherine (Snyder) Shellenberger. welcome to his guests. The establishment John L,. Shellenberger, the father of our is well known throughout his section of the subject, was born in Hilltown township, and county as a high class hotel at which the

throughout life was engaged in the pursuits best of accommodations may be had. He is of an agriculturist. He was quite a promi- a very enterprising business man, being in- nent man in the township, and held a num- terested in a number of important enterprises ber of political offices in the county. He in his section, and he also owns a tract of 40 was also a director in the Doylestown Na- acres of fine farm land. He has been a

SIMON V. LEFFERTS. BUCKS COUNTY 135

director in the Sellersville National Bank Abraham L,efrerts was the grandfather of of Sellersville since it started. our subject, and resided in Southampton Mr. Shellenberger was united in marriage township, where he was engaged in agricul- with Caroline Weisel, a native of Bedmin- tural pursuits. He was twice wedded; by

ster township, and a daughter of Samuel his first wife he reared two children, John, our

and Catherine (Salladay) Weisel. Mrs. Shel- subject's father, and Alice, who first married lenberger closed her eyes in final sleep June a Mr. Porter, and later Samuel Winner.

16, 1882. On April 6, 1884, our subject His second marriage resulted in three chil-

formed a second union with Catherine F. dren : Abraham, who married Alice Hoge-

Fellman, who was born in Rockhill town- land James wedded Jemima Hicks ; and ;

ship, and is a daughter of Jacob and Hannah Anna, who was the wife of John Thompson. (Bean) Fellman, both of whom are now de- The maternal grandfather of our subject was

ceased. Politically, our subject is an active Rev. Jonathan Du Bois, who occupied the

member of the Democratic party. In reli- pulpit in the Dutch Reformed Church at

gious faith and fellowship, he is a member of Churchville many years. the Hagersville Reformed Church, of which John Lefferts was born and reared in South- he has been treasurer for twenty-two years. ampton township, and followed farming all his Socially, he belongs to the Brotherhood of active career. He was a very prominent man

the Union, No. 37, of Hagersville. of his day, being widely known throughout

the county ; in politics, he was always to the front, giving his support to the Democratic party. He was elected constable, school 'IMON V. LEFFERTS. In every director, and held many other township community there are men who offices. Religiously, he was a member of the have finished their part in the Dutch Reformed Church. He lived to the ripe old age of ninety-six years. Nine chil- arduous labors of daily life ; they are usually men who have struggled against adverse cir- dren resulted from his marriage with Helena

curhstances and who have overcome the Du Bois. They were named as follows : obstacles to success, reaching the calm only Cynthia, wedded to Peter Bennett, both of. deceased joined after severe and exhausting efforts. They whom are now ; Susanna was command the veneration and respect of the in marriage with Isaiah Delaney, now deceased Jonathan, deceased, was married to younger generations. Such a man and such ;

deceased ; a character is Simon V. Lefferts, whom we Jane Cornell, also Simon V. was next in order Charles, deceased, was wedded represent with a recent portrait on a preceding ; Cornell, is also deceased Mary page. He entered the world in Southampton to Sarah who ; township, this county, September 23, 1818, Catherine is the wife of John Fetter, and they

reside at Churchville, Pa. ; Henry married and is a son of John and Helena (Du Bois)

Ufierts. Susanna S. Hogeland, now deceased ; Abra- ; ;

136 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

ham died young; and Alice, who also died and followed the occupation of a farmer and

young. stonemason ; his wife was born in Lancaster Simon V. LefFerts obtained a limited educa- County, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. States were the

tion in the common schools of his native parents of seven children, namely : Joseph,

township, and spent the most of his days deceased ; Tomlinson, deceased ; Rachael

of our subject ; Anna assisting his father in the cultivation of the Susanna, the wife E. ;

soil. At twenty-four years of age our sub- Mary ; and Alfred. Mr. Lefferts has now ject moved on the old Hogeland homestead attained an advanced age, and enjoys the in Moreland township, Montgomery County, esteem and respect of a host of friends; Pa., and was successfully engaged in agricul- bright, hale and happy, with a constitution tural pursuits for some fifty-two years. In strong and unimpaired, he stands surrounded

the spring of 189S, he returned to his native with the fruits of his life work, a true exam- township and purchased his present home, ple of the best American manhood.

where he is spending his latter days in the Two children blessed the union of our sub- enjoyment of the fruits of his early labors ject and wife. John, the elder, ijiarried Helen this home was the property of his father, who Rich, of Churchville, Pa., and has two chil-

spent his last days there. During his active dren, Walter and Helen ; Mary Ann married period our subject sold his produce at the Henry L- Search, of Southampton township. Philadelphia markets, and general farming Pa., and also has two children, Susanna L. was his principal occupation. and Theodore C. Politically, Mr. lyefferts was formerly a Democrat, but later became a Republican he has served as assessor of Moreland township, held other and has township offices. AMUEL J. PENROSE. With the He was also county committeeman of Mont- well-known and influential hus- gomery County for a period of twenty-five bandmen of Doylestown township years. Fraternally, he is a member of the our subject is prominently identified, occupy- Grange Star Lodge, No. 562, P. of H., of ing a leading position among the agricultural

Moreland township. Religiously, he is a de- and business men. He is a worthy repre- voted member of the Dutch Reformed sentative of an old and well-known pioneer

Church, and has been elder of the same family of Montgomery County. He is the three years. Mr. Lefferts was joined in youngest child of Jarrett and Tasy Ann (Kirk) marriage February 16, 1843, with Susanna Penrose, and was born in Horsham township, States, of Bensalem township, and a daugh- Montgomery County, Pa., May 5, 1855. ter of and Abraham Mary (Tomlinson j States, The Penrose family is of English-Quaker and her mother was born in Lancaster stock, and the original emigrant came to this County, Pa. Abraham States, who was a country with William Penn in his second native of Bensalem township, lived there, voyage in 1683. They, along with a large BUCKS COUNTY 137

Quaker body, founded the village of Quaker- many friends. Religiously, he was a faithful town, this county, which was for some time and good member of the Society of Friends. the largest Quaker settlement of this county. As a result of his marriage with Tasy Ann There the Penroses lived for several genera- Kirk the following children were born, name-

tions, and were a thrifty, prosperous, agricul- ly : Ella, the wife of Edward Betts of Buffalo, tural people, contributing largely to the clear- N. Y. ; Elizabeth is the wife of Alfred Moore, ing up and development of that section. and they reside in Horsham township, Mont-

There are numerous Penrose families through- gomery County ; William, a farmer of War- out this section of the state, all of whom rington township, this county, was married

sprang , from the original one of the Quaker- to Hannah Paul ; and Samuel J. the subject town settlement, and all are devoted and con- of this biography.

sistent Friends. Samuel J. Penrose was reared upon his William Penrose, the grandfather of our father's farm, and was trained from early subject, was a brother to the grandfather of youth to the vocation of a husbandman, Senator Boies A. Penrose of Pennsylvania, which he has continued up to the present time. and both of them were natives of Quaker- He obtained his early elementary training in town, but William after his marriage moved the Carversville Academy, which was later to Horsham township, Montgomery County, supplemented by a course at Swarthmore Col- Pa., and there purchased the Graham Park lege. He then returned home, and at seven- farm, consisting of 300 acres of rich and pro- teen years of age assumed the management ductive land, — one of the most valuable farms of his father's farm, and successfully con- in Eastern Pennsylvania. He was a prominent ducted the same until 1884. In that year,

member and regular attendant of the Society he left his native township, and settled on a Friends politically, he was a Whig early farm three miles south of Doylestown; his of ;

in life, but later became a Republican. He homestead consists of 128 acres of highly

was the father of three sons and two daugh- improved land, and it is one of tlie most

ters, namely : Jarrett ; Abel, deceased ; Ann, beautiful farms in Bucks County, ranking

deceased ; Hannah, deceased, was wedded to second to none. The house is comfortable

Isaac Hicks ; and Tasy, the wife of Morris and commodious, and the outbuildings Davis. are large and substantial. Our subject,

Jarrett Penrose, the father of our subject, who is an enterprising and progressive was boru on the Graham Park farm in Hor- farmer, has purchased two other farms in his sham township, Montgomery County, and vicinity, aggregating 300 acres, and gives spent his entire life in that township, en- employment to a number of hands, who

gaged in the cultivation of the soil ; he owned carry on the work under his instructions. a fine farm of 128 acres, and was a scientific Our subject is highly respected by his and careful farmer. He was industrious, fellow-citizens; he is an enterprising and kind-hearted and prosperous, and possessed successful business man, and a cheerful, kind- ;

138 boo;k of biographies

hearted neighbor, ever ready to aid the AMES CONRAD. For the past score needy. and eight years the gentleman, whose Mr. Penrose was united in marriage, June name heads this brief notice, has been

i6, 1881, with Mary C. Farren, a daughter successfully engaged in the undertaking busi- of John and Elizabeth (Fretz) Farren, and ness in the village of Mozart, Buckingham this union was blessed with three children, township, Bucks County, and is recognized

namely: Cyril F., a student at St. Joseph's as one of the prominent and enterprising

College, Baltimore, Md. ; and Ralph J. and business men of that village and ranks with Norman S., both at home. John Farren, the the most highly respected citizens. Our sub- father of Mrs. Penrose, was a native of Lan- ject has been a life-long resident of Bucks caster County, Pa., and was an intelligent County, was born in Warwick township July

and active business man. Soon after his 12, 1835, and is a son of Charles and Mary marriage in 1840, he went to Pittsburg, Pa., (Patterson) Conrad, and grandson of William where he engaged in the forwarding business, and Hannah (DeCoursey) Conrad.

buying and shipping all kinds of produce to William Conrad was a farmer all his life, the Eastern markets. At that time the rail- and at the time of his death he was pursuing road facilities were very limited, hence the his vocation in Buckingham township, this forwarding business, by canal and river, was county. As a result of his union with Han- very remunerative. In 1850, he moved to nah DeCoursey a large family of children Doylestown township and carried on gen- was born to them, one of whom was Charles, eral farming until his death, which occurred tlie father of our subject, who was born in in 1879 at the age of seventy-nine; his wife Buckingham township on his father's farm. died in 1897. They reared a family of one Charles Conrad worked as a day laborer the

son and one daughter, namely : Mary C, our greater part of his active days, but also did subject's wife, and John A., who married considerable farming. He passed from this Bleiler, IvCtitia died in 1883, aged twenty- life in the year 1 873. Mr. Conrad was united eight. John Farren, father of Mrs. Penrose, in marriage with Mary Patterson and they was also a large contractor and built the old became the parents of four children, who Doylestown and Willow Grove turnpike; he were named as follows : John, a well-to-do also did other contracting, the most import- farmer of Rushland, this county; Anna, de- ant being on the Hoosac Tunnel. Mr. Pen- ceased, was the wife of Charles M. Cadwalla- rose is a member of the Society of Friends; der, a resident of Warrington township, this in politics, he is a solid Republican. county, and a gentleman whose sketch may This highly esteemed gentleman is sur- also be found in this Book of Biographies rounded by a host of admiring and affectionate Robert is an engineer and resides in Phila- friends, all of whom are ever welcome to en- delphia, and James, the subject of this sketch. joy the comforts and luxuries of his pleasant The mother of our subject entered the world home. of rest in 1837. BUCKS COUNTY 139

James Conrad received his elementary edu- and died April 17, 1885. Mr. Conrad has cation in the public schools of his native always been a strong supporter of the Repub-

township, but the better part of his education lican ticket, and has held ofiice as school

was received through actual business experi- director. Fraternally, he is a member of

ence. At an early age our subject settled on Doylestown Lodge, No. 245, F. & A. M. ; he

what is now known as the old Woodman and his wife attend the Friends' Meetings at

farm, and there carried on agricultural pur- Wrightstown, of which she is a member. suits a number of years at the of eighteen ; age he was apprenticed to the carpenter's trade and pursued that vocation some three years, when he began to manufacture pumps. Mr. AMUEIy R. KRAMER, one of the Conrad next turned his attention toward the most prominent Democrats in this undertaking business, and in 1870 erected section of Bucks County and an

his present shop and is now filling out his enterprising and progressive citizen of Per-

twenty-eighth year in that line of business. kasie, is a member of the firm of Kramer & Our subject by strict attention to his work Moyer, proprietors of the Perkasie News. and practical business methods has estab- He was born in Rockhill township, Bucks

lished a large patronage; he buries over 100 County, March 28, 1861, and is a son of

bodies every year ; he has.a fine hearse and Abraham and Elizabeth (Sames) Kramer. everything necessary to make a first-class un- Abraham Kramer, the father of our subject,

is a dertaking establishment. Mr. Conrad was also born in Rockhill township, in 181 3, man of high business principles and has won and early in life learned the trade of a mason, the confidence and esteem of the community which he followed for some time. He then of which he has so long been a valuable conducted an inn for a few years, after which member. he again took up his trade, entering the em- On the thirteenth day of March, 1862, our ploy of the Mount Penn Railroad. While at subject was joined in the bonds of matrimony work he had the misfortune to receive an with Martha C. Worthington, who was born injury which subsequently resulted in his in Wrightstown township February 28, 1840; death, in 1869. He was united in the holy

she is a daughter of William and Seraphina bonds of wedlock with Elizabeth Sames, and (Taylor) Worthington, the former a native of they became the fond parents of the following Warwick (now Buckingham) township, while children: William, deceased; Isaiah, a resi-

latter was born in Newtown dent of Perkagie ; Ellen (Werdenhoper) it is thought the ; (Reimer) Lizzie (Vaders) township ; he was a farmer and stonemason Louisa ; ; Lucy by trade, and continued the latter occupation (Dettre); and Samuel R., the subject of this until overtaken by death. Mr. and Mrs. biographical sketch. Conrad have been blessed by the birth of one Samuel R. Kramer obtained his intellec- daughter, Mary Jane, born March 4, 1864, tual training in the public schools of Quaker- ;

140 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

town, after which he became an apprentice happy union is blessed by the following issue: to the jeweler's trade, but did not follow it Samueljr.; Russell S.; Lulu D. ; Mary; Stew-

long. He then entered a printing office ; at art ; Kolwell; Clara M. and Randall S. So-

Lansdale as an apprentice, in which capacity cially, he is a member of the following or- he served for three years, when he became ders: MacCalla Lodge, No. 596, F. &A. M,, foreman in the office. In 1882, he moved to of which he was secretary from the time of Perkasie and accepted the position of fore- its organization until 1 898 ; I. O. O. F. man in the mechanical department of the Knights of the Golden Eagle ; and Knights Perkasie News, of which Sellers & Moyer of Pythias. were then proprietors. In the same year occurred the death of Mr. Sellers, whose interest in the plant was disposed of to our sub- WATSON MOON is a prominent ject, which he has since retained. They . and well-to-do merchant of the publish one of the brightest and newsiest village of Fallsington, where papers in the county, and by industrious work he has been engaged in the mercantile busi- and successful management they have made ness all his life, having worked in his father's it a paying enterprise and placed it in the store during his early days. This highly foremost rank of weekly newspapers. Mr. respected citizen was born December 4, 1845, Kramer has always been an active Democrat, and is a son of Andrew and Anna M. (Wat- and has been a magistrate since attaining his son) Moon, grandson of Daniel and Mercy .majority. Time and again, he has been a (Lovett) Moon, great-grandson of William delegate to county, district, and state conven- Moon, great-great-grandson of Robert Moon, tions, while, in 1896, he represented the Na- great-great-great-grandson of Roger Moon, tional Democratic party as a delegate to the and great-great-great-great-grandson ofJames National Convention at Indianapolis. In Moon.

1 he 889, was a candidate for member of the James Moon was born and reared in Eng- State Legislature, but after one of the hottest land, and came to America about the time of fights in the history of the county, he was William Penn ; Roger Moon was born on defeated by the small margin of one vote. the Atlantic while his parents were en route He has frequently stumped the county, and for America. Robert Moon purchased the is known far and wide as an able speaker island in the Delaware River that now bears and an honest and conscientious worker for his name ; upon this island is where the the interests of his party. He organized the celebrated fisheries were established. Daniel Menlo Park Association, of which he has Moon, the grandfather of our subject, was been manager since 1892, and is president of born on Moon Island, and was a farmer all the Perkasie Board of Trade. his life ; he also owned one of the finest fish- In 1882, Mr. Kramer took as his companion eries along the Delaware River. He was in the pathway of life Mary Swartly, which married to Mercy Lovett by whom he reared

WALTER R. AND WINDER L. JOHNSON. BUCKS COUNTY 143

a family of eight children, namely : William, Charlotte G. Mull, a daughter of Ebenezer

who lives at lyanghorne. Pa. ; Hutchinson, H. and Sarah A. (Greene) Mull, and three

deceased ; Andrew, deceased ; Benjamin, de- children blessed the home of our subject and

ceased ; Sarah (Thompson), deceased ; Phoebe wife, namely: Jennie B. ; Lydia M.; and

A. (Hellings); Anna M. (Crozier), of Falls- Emma F. Politically, Mr. Moon is a firm

ington ; and Evan I,., deceased. supporter of the Republican party and has Andrew Moon, the father of our subject, contributed much toward the success of his

was born on Moon Island in 1 824, and dur- chosen party in his community. He has ing his younger days clerked in a mercantile served as judge of elections and as town

store ; later he settled in Fallsington, Pa., clerk. Religiously, Mr. Moon's family are where he opened and conducted a general members of the Episcopal Church. store on his own account, and carried on that line of business until his death, which occurred in 1897. He was joined in marriage with Anna M. Watson, a daughter of Miles INDER LAWRENCE JOHNSON, Watson, of Falls township, and she is now Wia prominent young man of Bucks passed her seventy-fourth year, and enjoying County, was born on his present farm, where the best of health for a lady of her years. he was reared to agricultural pursuits, and

She is the mother of the following children : where he has since continued that calling. the s'ubject M. Watson, of this sketch ; Em- He is a son of Walter R. and Mary R. (Win-

(Farley) ; and Annie. a ma Mr. Moon was der) Johnson, grandson of Lawrence J. and strong Republican in politics, and served as Mary (Winder) Johnson, and great-grandson school director. He was president and one of Edward Johnson. of the organizers of the Fallsington Horse Edward Johnson was born in February,

Company ; religiously, he favored the Society 1772, in Barrow, Lincolnshire, England, of Friends. where his family had resided for many gen- M. Watson Moon received his primary erations. Later he moved to Hull, where he

education in the public schools of Fallsing- owned several houses ; he was the father of ton, and at the age of thirteen years entered five sons and six daughters, and in the hopes the store of his father, and was later taken in of bettering his financial condition and secur-

as a partner, the firm name being A. Moon ing his children a better start in life, he left & Son. The business was carried under that his native country and sailed for the Ameri- name until the death of Andrew Moon, when can shores in 1818. Upon his arrival in this our subject became sole proprietor, and has country he located near Auburn, Cayuga conducted the same up to the present time County, N. Y., where he took up a large ; tract

established large trade, is he has a and one of land. His second son was Lawrence J., of the prominent business men of the village. our subject's grandfather, who was born in Mr. Moon was united in marriage with Hull, England, January 23, 1801 ; a short ,

144 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

time prior to his coming to America, he was the property holders, held in Trenton, N. J.

employed in a printing-office in Bristol, Eng. in 1 703. He bought a tract of land consist- He and his two brothers came to this country ing of 600 acres, situated along the road be- together, and I^awrenceJ. located in Phila- tween Newtown and Yardley in Makefield

delphia, where he opened the first stereotype township, the purchase being made in 1722.

foundry in that city ; he also owned one in He owned an island in the Delaware River

Cincinnati, Ohio, and several others in this which still bears his name. In 1734, while country. Later he took in a partner, and boarding a ship on the Delaware River for their foundry was located on Sansom street England, whither he was going to settle his

of that city. His latter years were spent on affairs, he was drowned. John Winder, the a fine farm along Neshaminy Creek in Bristol father of Aaron Winder, inherited his father's

township, which he had purchased, and which estate, on which he spent his entire life farm-

is now owned by his sons, —R. Winder John- ing. During the Indian outbreaks in 1759,

son and Lawrence. He died in i860, leaving he resided in the village of Langhorne ; he a large estate. His wife was Mary R. Win- and one of his neighbors assisted in trans-

der, a native of Makefield township, and a porting troops for the protection of the set-

daughter of Aaron and Sarah (Van Horn) tlers in his vicinity, for. which he was called Winder, and their family consisted of seven before the Friends' Meeting to explain his three daughters. sons and conduct ; the matter was of such importance

The Van Horns were also early settlers of that it was referred to the Quarterly Meeting

Bucks County, and date back to Christian where it was finally settled, they being warned Barentzen Van Horn, who emigrated to that if the offense was repeated they would America from Holland, and located in New be suspended from the Society. He died in York State. He assisted the Dutch in driv- 1770. His wife was Rebecca Richards. ing out the Swedes from Delaware, and after- Walter R. Johnson was the seventh child wards settled in Wilmington, where he built born to his parents, and acquired a good edu-

the first mill in that state ; this mill was cation in the schools of Philadelphia, Pa., operated by the rise and fall of the tide. and Wilmington, Del. ; having learned fann- January 18, 1656, he was made fire warden ing from his father, at the age of nineteen of Ft. Amsterdam, N. Y., and on August i, years he began farming on his own account. 1657, he received a patent of land on Man- He owned several farms in this county, also hattan Island. He was one of the two pro- considerable property in Hulmeville ; he was vincial representatives from Bucks County in an industrious farmer, and besides carrying

1721-22. on agricultural pursuits was a breeder of fine The Winder family is also an old and prom- cattle. Before attaining his manhood he be-

inent family of Bucks County, the founder gan to manifest a keen interest in politics, being Thomas Winder, a native of England firmly ; upholding the principles advocated by his name is on the records of the meeting of the Republican party. He served as school BUCKS COUNTY 145

director several terms and two terras as over- The alligator was found to be ten feet long. seer of the poor. Fraternally, he was a mem- Mr. Johnson is a member of the 2d Philadel-

ber of the Masonic Order, and had taken all phia City Cavalry.

the degrees up to the Maltese Cross ; he was In connection with the above biography, also a member and past grand of the I. O. O. we take pleasure in presenting on a preced- F., Neshaminy Lodge, No. 422, of Hulme- ing page a portrait of Walter R. and Winder

ville ; and a member of the K. of P. Mr. It. Johnson, which was taken in April, 1893. Johnson was joined in marriage with Mary R. Winder, of Bucks County, a daughter of Moses and Margaret T. (Thornton) Winder, and one child, our subject, blessed their happy (STThoiHOMAS PRFSTON CHAMBERS, home. Mr. Johnson was called from this Jl who for many years prior to 1888 was earth March 26, 1 897, the cause of his death extensively engaged in petroleum refining

being typhoid pneumonia ; his wife entered at Titusville, Pa., is now living in retire-

the world of rest January 4, 1 892. ment at his handsome home at Newtown, Winder lyawrence Johnson entered the Uni- Bucks County, Pa. His life has been one of versity of Pennsylvania to study medicine, the greatest activity, and years of industry but owing to his ill health was compelled to have resulted in fruitful results. To-day he

leave school, and consequently he returned is one of the leading and influential citizens

home to the farm, where he has since resided. of the borough, and is president of the New- The farm, comprising 72 acres of rich and town Electric Railway Co., in which he holds fertile soil, lias been put under a high state a controlling interest. He was born in the

of cultivation under the supervision of our city of Philadelphia in 1836, and is a son of subject. Upon this farm is a chestnut tree Alexander and Frances (Wayne) Chambers. that measures eight feet in diameter, which Our siibject traces his ancestral history is the largest tree of its kind in the county. back to William Chalmers, who was born in With our subject resides his aged grandmother Perth, Scotland. His son, Alexander Chal- Margaret T. (Thornton) Winder, who is en- mers, was born at Concordyshire, Scotland, joying excellent health for one of her years. came to America when a lad, and was a sailor Mr. Johnson has traveled extensively and during his early manhood. He located in has often hunted game in the swamps of Philadelphia, where in 1746 he was married Florida. In one of these hunting expeditions to Ann Fox of that city, and at their marriage he and his party came across an alligator, they changed the name to Chambers, by with which they had a lively time, as the which the family has since been known. Al- creature was very ugly and showed fight. A exander Chambers died in London, England, timely shot from the gun in the hands of our and was buried in St. Andrew's Cemetery, of subject killed the reptile, thus saving the life that city. They reared one son, John, who cousin, of his who accompanied the party. died April 3, 1776 ; he was married in March, 146 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

1 to Deborah Hall, Pa. Inf. 770, and they reared one son, 104th Reg., Vol. ; after serving a George, the grandfather of our subject, who short time he was stricken down with the

was born in August, 1774, and died January small-pox and was sent home ; upon his re-

7, 1 8 14. George Chambers was married Au- covery, he re-enlisted for a term of three years gust 14, 1796, to Mary Preston, and they were in the 20th Reg., Pa. Vol. Cav., and was

the parents of the following children : John, commissioned a first lieutenant. In 1864, he

who died at the age of twenty years ; George was taken sick with typhoid fever and was died in 1867 ; Thomas died in infancy; Alex- discharged ; in March, 1865, he raised a regi- ander, the father of our subject ; Clara became .ment of cavalrymen, and they were on their the wife of a Mr. Brooks, and Mary. Upon way south and had gotten as far as Harris- the death of her husband, Mrs. Chambers burg, Pa., when the war was brought to a married a Mr. Harris, and they came to Bucks close. In 1869, he went to Titusville, Pa.,

County and located in Newtown township, and worked at petroleum refining until 1 888, where they purchased the Cadwallader farm, when he retired from active labor and re- a tract of 100 acres which the ancestors of turned home to care for his aged parents. Mr. the previous owner had purchased direct Chambers has traveled extensively abroad, from William Penn. She died in 1864. and is one of the prominent and influential Alexander Chambers was born in Philadel- citizens of Newtown. He purchased the phia, June 4, 1808, but moved with his mother Swing estate in that borough, upon which to Bucks County, where he engaged in farm- he erected a large and handsome house. ing. Prior to his coming to this county he October 16, i860, Mr. Chambers married was engaged in the mercantile business in Hannah H. Barnsley, a daughter of John and Philadelphia, but, in 1841, retired from active Mary Barnsley, and granddaughter of William life and resided on the homestead. He Barnsley, who was a son of John Barnsley. erected nearly all of the buildings now on the The last named emigrated to this country farm, and was a prominent farmer and citizen from England and became the adopted son of of the community. His wife's maiden name his uncle, Thomas Barnsley, who came to was Francis Wayne, and two children blessed America in 1756. Thomas Barnsley was a their home; Thomas Preston, our subject, major in the British Army and served in the and Francis Wayne, who died in 1859. Alex- French and Indian War ; resigning his com- ander Chambers was very active in church mission, he went to Philadelphia in 1763 and work, being a consistent member of the Epis- bought 537 acres of land near Croydon this copal Church. county. He imported the necessary brick Thomas Preston Chambers, our subject, from England and built a colonial mansion, moved West in and located 1855 in the state which he willed to his adopted son, John. of Illinois, where he followed farming two John Barnsley was married, in 1777, to Eliz- years and then returned home. In 1 861, when abeth Van court, and they reared one son, the Civil War broke out, he enlisted in the William, who wedded Jane Van Horn. Wil- ;

BUCKS COUNTY 147

liani and his newly-made wife came to New- of New York, in which business he remained town township, where they occupied the until 1894. In the same year he purchased house built by his father, now known as the his present manufacturing plant, which was Bamsley home, and a part of the Barnsley established by Garret Brown in 1840, who was estate. His son, John, the father of our sub- succeeded by Alfred Baker, from whom Mr.

ject's wife, married Mary Hough, a cousin of Chambers purchased it. He manufactures Gen. U. S. Grant. .He took an active part in the celebrated Newtown and Peerless Thresh-

politics and served as justice- of the peace, ers ; an improved blaker, horse rakes, land civil engineer and conveyancer. Upon his rowers, plows, harrows, corn shellers and death, he left a large estate to his children, many other farming implements. He also

who were as follows : raakes for Ann J. ; William ; Han- ash ejectors steamboats ; he fitted nali H., the wife of Thomas Preston Chambers out the U. S. S. "New York " with these eject-

Wallace, who died ors, and has the fitting all young ; Henry C. ; Eliza- out of of the Hud-

beth ; Wilhelmina H. ; Mary W. ; and John H. son River boats. He is an admirer of fine

Mr. and Mrs. Chambers are the parents of horses and is the owner of many thorough-

the following offspring : Mary, who was born bred animals, some of which cannot be ex-

, celled August 12, 1861 ; Frances W. born April 19, in the county. He is secretary and 1863, is the wife of R. E. Hopkins, and they treasurer of the Newtown Electric Railway

are the parents of one child, Robert E. ; Alex- Co. Socially, he is a member and grand- ander; Helen T., born December 28, 1869, master of Newtown Lodge, No. 427, F. & A. was wedded to E- T. Roberts, and their union M. Mr. Chambers is one of the enterprising

has been blessed by the birth of one child, business men of Newtown, is a popular citizen

Walter V.; Anna P., born April 24, 1872; and commands the respect of his fellow-towns- John B., born February 28, 1874; Elizabeth men and his many acquaintances. C, born June 12, 1879, and Clarissa W., born

November 13, 1880. Fraternally, Mr. Cham- bers is a member of Newtown L,odge, No.

427, F. &. A. M., and of the Philadelphia RANK BEAN, the present popular post-

Commandery of the lyoyal lyegion. master of Ferndale, Pa., is one of the Alexander Chambers, the well-known man- foremost and progressive business men of that ufacturer of threshing machines and farming village, and is also the proprietor of the lead- implements, was born in Newtown, October ing mercantile store there ; he enjoys the well-

20, 1865. He attended the district schools merited confidence of his community and is and the Swarthmore and I^ehigh Universities, doing his share toward the building up of the

and, had his health not failed him, he would business portion of it. He was born near have graduated from the latter institution Ferndale, Bucks County, in 1840, and is with the class of 1888. He first engaged in the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Trouger) the oil business with the Tidewater Oil Co., Bean. 8* 148 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Jacob Bean was a native of Richland town- city of postmaster ever since. In 1 887, he, ship, Bucks County, and his youthful days in company with other gentlemen, built the

they sold later,, were spent learning the trade of a tailor ; he Ferndale Creamery, which did not continue his trade for any great and which is now being conducted by Theo- length of time, for in early life he moved to dore Moyer; in 1892, he remodeled his Nockamixon township, and purchased a farm, father's old home into a fine hotel, which is carrying on agricultural pursuits the rest of now being conducted by J. H. Rufe. Our his life. His home was located where the subject has done his share toward building hotel at Ferndale is now situated. He was up his adopted village. He is a careful, con- an energetic and enterprising man, and was scientious business man, and is known to be held in high esteem by his fellow-citizens, of undoubted integrity and substantial busi- whom he served in many township offices. ness ability. He performs all his transactions He was called to rest at the age of seventy- in such a manner as to win the respect and three years, in 1883. He was married to esteem of his fellow-citizens. Elizabeth Trouger, and she has now passed Mr. Bean was wedded to Rose Keifer, a her eighty-seventh year in life, and is sur- daughter of Joseph Keifer, of Williams rounded by many warm friends who hold her township, Northampton County, Pa., and

in dear esteem. She is the mother of the they have adopted one child, Laura Kei-

following children : Harriet ; William ; Frank, fer. Mr. Bean is also the owner of one of the subject of this brief memoir; Josiah; the finest libraries in the county; he owns a David; and Ivouisa. fine farm and other property in Bucks County. Frank Bean possesses a fine education In religious views, our subject and wife are which he acquired in the public schools of his prominent members of the I,utheran Church. native township and through actual business

experience ; realizing the advantages of a trade, he learned that of a brickmason, in

which he became very skilled. He always ^TENRY H. BEAN is a prominent boot found steady employment and continued his ^ and shoe manufacturer of the village chosen occupation until 1870. In that year of Bridgeton, Pa., and has been

he located at Ferndale and established a engaged in that business all his life, having general store, which he has conducted up to learned the trade in his father's shop when a

the present time ; he carries a large stock, and boy. He is a native of Ferndale, Nocka- in the endeavor to supply the wants of his mixon township, Bucks County, Pa., the date customers, coupled with honest and straight- of his birth being July 7, 1848, and is a son forward dealings, he has built up a large and of Henry and Sarah (Hager) Bean. enviable patronage. He established the post- The father of our subject was born in Rich-

office at Ferndale, which was at first known land township, Bucks County, Pa., in 18 13, as Nockamixon, and has served in the capa- and during his boyhood days learned the

JOSEPH A. HENDRICKS, ; ,

BUCKS COUNTY 151

trade of 1 a shoemaker, and continued the same father's factory to finish his trade. In 87 1 throughout his entire life. After attaining our subject moved to Bridgeton, Pa., where his manhood, he moved to Nockamixon he began to follow his trade, making a spe-

township, this county, and settled where the cialty of custom work; his trade gradually in-

village of Ferndale is now located prior to creased to such a large extent, that he ; was that time he resided on the Bethlehem Pike compelled to erect his present establishment where he worked at his trade and would haul and give employment to a larger force of men. his stock to Philadelphia, where he obtained He employs none but the most skillful work- the best prices for his goods, which prices men, and his factory contains the latest and indeed were not large. He continued that most improved machinery. Our subject's hon-

business until his death ; he may be classed esty has never been doubted, and he is much among the typical self-made men of Bucks respected by his fellow-citizens. Mr. Bean County, having started out in life a poor boy has purchased several lots and has erected and succeeded in accumulating an estate, many houses in the village, and has sold

valued at 1 17,000 by the time of his death, them all at a good profit. which occurred in 1882. He resided on the Henry H. Bean was united in the bonds of Harmon estate, upon which he made many matrimony with Amanda Piatt, a daughter improvements. He was united in marriage of Philip Piatt, of Bucksville, Pa., and to this with Sarah Hager, daughter of John Hager, happy union a family of four children has a farmer of Nockamixon township, and she been born, namely: Wilson A., agent for the.

died in 1857, aged forty- four years, after Prudential Insurance Company, resides at having brought into the world the following- Bridgeport, Conn.; Ella, a dressmaker by children: Alfred, deceased; Laamine, de- trade; Sally lives in Philadelphia; and Katie, ceased; Mary; Andrew; Henry H., the sub- a milliner by trade. Religiously, our subject ject this of personal history ; Catherine E. and wife are devoted members and consistent Emeline; Wilson W.; and Julian. In 1862, workers of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Bean formed a second matrimonial alliance with Sarah Fritz, and this union was blessed by the birth of four children, namely: Charles H.; Ida A.; Irvin; and William R. OSEPH A. HENDRICKS. The beau- Henry H. Bean was educated in' the com- tiful and flourishing borough of Per- mon schools, and at the age of thirteen years kasie will stand as a monument to the began to work in his father's boot and shoe name of the gentleman above-mentioned long factory, where he continued one year; in after he has been laid to rest. It was he who 1862, he accepted a government position in connection with Mahlon H. Myers' pur- working at the recruiting stables at Geese- chased a tract of 73 acres in 1870, and laid boro Point, near ; Washington, D. C. after it out in town lots. He established a mer- the close of the Civil War, he returned to his cantile business there and acquired a large ;

152 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

trade, which he held until the time of his re- widow of Jacob Landis. Politically, he was in religious views he tirement in 1 890. He became a man of in- a Republican, whilst fluence, which he exerted in behalf of the in- was a member of the Mennonite Church. sleep terests of the town, inducing many citizens Mrs. Hendricks closed her eyes in final and enterprises to locate there. It is mainly at the age of sixty-four years. due to this enterprising and progressive citi- Joseph A. Hendricks, after receiving a good zen that Perkasie can now boast of a popu- common school education in his native town- lation of 1800. ship, became an apprentice to the trade of a

Mr. Hendricks is a son of John and Mary carpenter, which he followed for four years. (Alderfer) Hendricks, and was born May 20, In 1857, he relinquished his trade to engage

1827, near the old homestead in Hilltown in the coal and lumber business at Sellers- township, Bucks County. His grandfather ville. Pa., where he successfully conducted a was Benjamin Hendricks, who was a lead- yard for a period of thirteen years. Having ing agriculturist of Blooming Glen, Hill- disposed of that business, with wonderful town township, where he died at the ad- foresight as to the possibility of establishing vanced age of eighty-six years. He was united a village where Perkasie is now located, he, in marriage with Elizabeth Clemens, who in connection with Mahlon H. Myers, pur- died at the age of eighty years, and they chased 73 acres of land, which have since little reared the following children : Benjamin, Jr. been built up and become a prosperous the father of our subject Joseph borough. Our subject engaged in the mer- John, ; Susan; and Mary. cantile business and for many years was the John Hendricks was born in Hilltown leading business man in the town, which in township and lived on the old homestead, en- point of beauty and the number of good sub- gaged in agricultural pursuits during the ac- stantial buildings surpasses any other place

tive years of his life. He then disposed of of its size in Eastern Pennsylvania. He con- the estate to one of his sons and moved to tinued to conduct his store there until his re- Blooming Glen, where he spent the remainder tirement in 1890, after a very prosperous ca-

of his life in retirement, living with his chil- reer, when he disposed of his business to his dren. After withstanding, the vicissitudes of son-in-law, Mr. Tobias Bissey, and Irvin Bar-

life for eighty-six long years, he passed to his inger, under whose management it still re-

final rest. He married Mary Alderfer, a mains. Mr. Hendricks owns considerable daughter of Frederick Alderfer, of Montgom- real estate in the borough and resides in a ery County, and seven children blessed their handsome home on Market and Seventh

union, namely : Frederick, a resident of Per- streets. In political belief, he is a stanch kasie Jacob, deceased; Joseph A., the sub- Republican and has considerable in ; influence

ject of this biographical record ; Abraham, the party. He has held many public offices his home at Perkasie Elizabeth has been who makes ; and treasurer of the borough almost

(Panapacker), of Perkasie, and Hettie Ann, the entire time since its organization. It was BUCKS COUNTY 153

mainly through his efforts that Perkasie now the parents of the following children :

enjoys such excellent train service. He was ; and Moore ; Adam ; Hannah John ; J. one of the organizers of the Perkasie Improve- Adrian.

ment Company and also a prime mover in the John J. John was born at Valley Forge, establishment of the Persakie Water Works, Pa., and early in life learned the trade of a of which he is treasurer. For the past twenty- bricklayer, which he followed but a short

six years he has been a director of the L,ans- time. Finding it unsuited to him, he ac-

dale Bank. cepted a clerical position in the ofiice of a In 1858, he was joined in hymeneal bonds coal yard, which he held until his death at with Mary Yeakel, a daughter of Samuel the early age of twenty-six years. He was Yeakel, of Hilltown township, and they are united in matrimonial bonds with Rachel the proud parents of a daughter, Emma, who lyittle, a daughter of John and Rachel Little, married Tobias Bissey, by whom she has one of Ivumberville, Bucks County, and they

child, Estella. As a prominent and represen- became the fond parents of one son, C. C. tative citizen of Bucks County, we take Burleigh, the subject of this biographical pleasure in presenting Mr. Hendricks' por- sketch. Mrs. John survived her husband trait on a preceding page. many years, dying in 1892, at the age of sixty-five years. C. C. Burleigh John was reared in Bucks County until he was ten years old, when at C. BURI.EIGH JOHN, a gentleman that immature age he began to battle against

of excellent business propensities the tide of life. Upon leaving home, he and one of the highly respected went to lyimeport, where he entered the citizens of the borough of New Hope, Bucks employ of Mr. Cook, doing labor upon the

County, is in partnership with a Mr. Cook, farm. He has remained in business with and they conduct a first-class hardware store. that gentleman ever since, with the excep-

He is a son of John J. and Rachel (I/ittle) tion of two years. In 1882, they embarked John, and was born in Philadelphia, August in the hardware business at New Hope, and II, 1847. were successful from the very start. They His grandfather was Amos John, who carry a comprehensive stock of goods in the spent most of his life at Valley Forge, but hardware line, also farming implements, and at the time of his death was living with his by their honest and conscientious efforts daughter at Burlington, N. J., where he died have established a large and lucrative trade, at the advanced age of ninety years. His which compares favorably with any similar wife, whose maiden name was Quay, was a establishment in that section of the county. relative of Matthew Stanley Quay, and she He is an energetic and progressive citizen too attained an advanced age before suc- and is well thought of by every member of cumbing to the inevitable. They became the community. ; ;

154 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIKS

In 1866, Mr. John was united in the holy may be had of the neighboring country bonds of wedlock with Anna M. Kitchen, a for many miles around. Our subject is de- daughter of William B. Kitchen, of Mont- scended from one of the pioneer families gomery County, and they are the fond of this section, and was born on the pres-

parents of two children, namely: William ent homestead December 25, 1837, and is

B. , who is connected with the L,ambertville a son of Jacob and Mary (Fishier) Sassa- Rubber Company, married Ollie Sollieday; man, grandson of Jacob and. Catherine (Rei-

and George C, who is also identified with gel) Sassaman, and great-grandson of Jacob the I/ambertville Rubber Company. He has Sassaman. been quite prominent in affairs of a political The great-grandfather of our subject was

nature, and is a stanch supporter of the of German descent and came to this country principles of the Republican party. In with his father and took up a tract of land in 1889, he was a candidate for county treas- Berks County, Pa. I^ater he came to Nock-

u^rer, but was defeated after a hard fight amixon township, this county, where he

he has served as chief burgess a number of learned the hatter's trade ; while at this lat- times, and in 1897 was appointed justice of ter place he made the acquaintance of a Miss

the peace by the governor to fill the unex- Pearson, who was of a prominent family of pired term of T. T. Eastburn, which office the community, and whom he afterwards he still holds. Socially, he is also quite married. After his marriage he returned to prominent, being a member of the following Berks County; but as his wife did not like

orders : Unity I^odge, No. 300, I. O. O. F., of that arrangement they returned to Nocka-

which he is past grand master ; L,one Star mixon township, where Jacob purchased of Lodge, Knights of Pythias of L,ambertville, Mr. Overpeck a tract of land consisting of

N. J. ; and the O. I. H. of New Hope, of 250 acres, the most of which was covered by which he is sitting past arclion. a dense forest. The original homestead has since been divided into six farms, of which our subject owns one hundred and three acres,

and the remainder is divided into farms owned 'ACOB F. SASSAMAN. This worthy by W. Kilmer, A. Trauger, W. Fabeon, Joe

and influential farmer, who is a typical Haney and J. Nicholas. Jacob also purchased representative of the agricultural class the old St. Luke's Reformed Church, which of Bucks County, Pa., resides on a fine farm was a log church, the price paid being ;^ioo of 103 acres, which is located in Nockamixon the wood in this old church was hand carved

township, near the village of Ferndale. The and stained, and it now forms a part of the land is rich and productive and the improve- granary that stands upon our subject's farm. ments are the best, thus making it one of the Jacob Sassaman was the progenitor of the

best farms in the county; the property is a following children : Jacob ; John ; Samuel Elizabeth, piece of sloping ground from which a view the wife of a Mr. Wolfinger ; Sarah, BUCKS COUNTY 155

the wife of Mr. Kolil, and Mary, who was who resides in Chicago, 111. ; Dianna, widow wedded to a Mr. Lightcap. of the late John Hager; Julia, the wife of

Jacob Sassaman, the grandfather of our Levi Hager ; Mary, deceased, was the wife of subject, was born and reared on the Sassaman James Hoffman, and Jacob F., whose name homestead and carried on general farming all heads the above lines. Mr. Sassaman de- his life. He cleared a large portion of the parted from this life May 18, 1884, at the age

land, remodeled the barn and built a new of ninety years ; his wife passed from earth house. He was joined in the bonds of matri- on April 8th, of the same year, aged ninety mony with Catherine Reigel and they became years. the parents of five children, who were named Jacob F. Sassaman obtained his education

as follows : 5acob Elizabeth, who wedded a in the schools of his native township, and ;

Mr. Reigel ; Catherine, the wife of a Mr. early in life began clerking for his brother

Stone ; Heniy S. ; and Samuel. Jacob Sassa- Levi in his store at Kintnersville, Nocka-

man was well known throughout the town- mixon township ; after remaining there one ship and was constable for a number of years. year, at the request of his father he returned Jacob Sassaman, the father of our subject, to the homestead, which he operated on shares

who was better known as Captain Jacob Sas- and took care of liis aged parents during their

saman, was born on the homestead October 1 8, latter days. Upon the death of his father he

; agricultural heirs for 1 794 he was reared to pursuits, purchased from the the homestead which occupation he continued throughout the sum of $5000, and has since expended

his entire life. In his latter days, as he was $1000 in improvements. It may be truly about to retire from the more active duties of said that his farm stands second to none in

life, he built an addition to the house, in this section of the state, and in connection which he resided, and our subject moved into with carrying on general farming, he deals the part of the house which Jiad just been extensively in cattle and has a large dairy. vacated by his father, and operated the farm Mr. Sassaman is recognized as one of the en-

for his father. Jacob Sassaman was not terprising and progressive farmers of Bucks only well known throughout the county, but County, and is a man whose sterling qualities throughout the state, and was greatly re- have won for him the respect and good-will spected for his many excellent personal traits of the entire community. of character. He served three terms of seven Mr. Sassaman chose for his life companion years each as captain in the state militia; Emeline Wildonger, a daughter of Moses office Wildonger, of Tinicum township, settled many estates ; held the of super- this county, visor many years, and officiated in other town- where our subject's wife owns a handsome

ship offices. He was wedded to Mary Fishier, estate. As a result of this happy marriage

who was- born November 10, 1794, and this two children were reared, namely : Alice, the union was blessed by the birth of six children, wife of Webster Grim, whose personal history

namely : Levi F., who died in 1848 ; Charles, may also be found in this biographical book. ; ;

156 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

and they have two children, Ruth and George gaged in agricultural pursuits. His wife was Mary Simpson, a daughter of William W. ; and Jacob Stewart, a telegraph operator W. Simpson of Upper Makefield township, and at Elizabeth, N. J., who wedded Alice Sump- stone. Politically, Mr. Sassaman is an un- this union was blessed by the birth of seven children, namely: William S., the father of wavering Democrat ; fraternally, lie is a mem- subject; Isabella M., the wife of John ber of the Knights of the Golden Eagle ; and our Caroliue, the wife of Robinson religiously he is a member of the Reformed Keith ; James ; Church. Mary A., was wedded to Joseph M. Scott

James h. John W. ; and Anthony T. ; William S. Torbert was a native of New- town township, this county, and his vocation

yZyAilUJAH S. TORBERT is a descendant was also that of a farmer, in which occupa- J of one of the oldest and most tion he was very successful. He was an highly respected families of Bucks County, intelligent and enterprising citizen, always

Pa., that has been connected with its growth ready to support any measure that in his and prosperity since colonial days. This opinion tended to promote the interests of well-to-do and prosperous gentleman is en- his community, and was held in esteem by a gaged in tilling the soil in Newtown town- host of friends. He passed from this earth ship, this county. He was born in that town- in 1 89 1. He was twice married; his first ship, February 22, 1847, and is a son of wife was Rosanna K. Slack, and upon her

William S. and Rosanna K. (Slack) Torbert, death he wedded Kate B. Craven ; he was grandson of James M. and Mary W. (Simp- the progenitor of five children, who were son) Torbert, and great-grandson of James named as follows : Elijah S., the subject

Torbert. of this brief memoir ; Fremont, who died

James Torbert was a son of James Torbert, young ; Mary also died young ; Francis, de-

Sr., and was one of the pioneer settlers of ceased ; and Sidney K., who resides with his

Upper Makefield township, this county ; he mother in Newtown, Pa. The mother of our was educated to agricultural pursuits and subject, Mrs. Rosanna K. (Slack) Torbert, followed that vocation throughout his entire entered the world of rest in 1881. Relig- life. He was joined in marriage with Mar- iously, Mr. Torbert was active in church garet McNair, by whom he reared a family work, and was a devoted member of the of eleven children, namely : Martha ; Absa- Presbyterian Church, in which he held many

Hannah ; Ann ; Alice offices. lom ; ; James M.

Samuel ; Elizabeth ; ; John K. Charles ; and Our subject received a common school Margaret. James M. Torbert, the grandfather education, and remained under the parental of our subject, was born in Upper Makefield roof until his marriage, assisting his father township, December 25, and resided in in the labors about 179S, the homestead ; after his his native township all his active days, en- marriage, he took charge of the homestead.

ROBERT SHOEMAKER DANA, M. D. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 159

and carried on general farming until 1890, intent and the true sympathetic nature back when he purchased his present farm of E. of it, and as a result he occupies a high place

White; this farm consists of 70 acres of well- in their esteem. He is a son of Sylvester improved land, and general farming is our and Elizabeth (Brown) Dana, and was born subject's principal occupation. Mr. Torbert in Circleville, Ohio, November 10, 1833. is very industrious and carries on his farming The family is descended from French- in a successful manner ; he is well known Huguenot stock, and traces its ancestry to throughout the township, and enjoys the re- Richard Dana, who was born in France spect and good-will of his fellow-citizens. about 161 2 and fled to England in 1629,

Politically, Mr. Torbert is a stanch Repub- . bearing with him a French silver cup, which lican ; fraternally, he is a member of the A. is a family heirloom and is now in the pos- Dana of Fryeburgh, O. U. W., Lodge No. 205, of Newtown ; re- session of Hon. Judas ligiously, he is a member of the Presbyterian Me. In 1640 he emigrated from England to

Church. On February 24, 1 876, our subject this country, at first locating in the Plymouth and Mary A. Wynkoop, a daughter of Ger- Colony, but subsequently in West Cambridge, ardus and Matilda Wynkoop, were united in .Mass., near Boston. His death occurred in marriage, and three children have blessed the rthat place on April 2, 1690. He was the , home of this union, as follows : William S., father of Jacob, whose son Jacob was the who is at home; Samuel S., who is in the .father of Anderson Dana, Sr., who was a employ of the Baldwin lyocomotive Works .very, prominent man of his day. He was and George W., who is also at home. bojn in 1733, and migrated to Wyoming Valley, then in Westmoreland, now in I^u-

zerne County, Pa. - He .was a representative in the Connecticut Legislature from the West- kOBERT SHOEMAKER DANA, moreland District, and was serving as such \\~^ M.D. a practicing physician of Mor- when, he met his death in the Massacre of

-L^V^ risvrisville, Bucks County, has attained Wilkes-Barre, July 3, 1778, his body never nmch distinction at his profession, and also being recovered after his death. served long and faithfully in the Civil War Anderson Dana, Jr., the grandfather of our as a surgeon, at the time of his discharge subject, was born August 11, 1765, at Ash- bearing the rank of major-surgeon. He is a ford, Conn., and went to Wyoming Valley man of noble character, sympathetic and with his father. He was but twelve years of charitable, and is ever ready to aid those in age when tlie massacre took place, and in all walks of life who unlike himself have not company with many others, of whom he was received the smile of Dame Fortune. Act- the oldest male, he made his way back to ing as friend and personal adviser to his Connecticut. Many of the party were una- many patients, and not merely in the capable to withstand the hardships of the journey city of physician, they recognize his good and died on the way. A few years later. ;

i6o BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

accompanied by a younger brother, lie re- in 1826, with the degree of Master of Arts. turned to Wilkes-Barre to look after his He then returned to Wilkes-Barre, where he

father's estate ; he located upon the old home- entered upon the study of law under Judge stead and erected a log house, and at first Garrick Mallory, and subsequently moved to

their only stock was the cow and horse which . Circleville, Ohio, where he was associated they took with them. There he engaged in with Judge Olds for some time. But, owing

farming, and followed the trade of a cooper to ill health, he was unable to continue in until his demise, which occurred about 1852. practice, and as a result accepted a position He held a number of important offices, being as principal of Worthington Seminary, near associate judge for a time, councilman, and Columbus, Ohio, where he remained for three collector of taxes. He was one of the good years. He then returned to the practice of substantial residents of the community, and his profession for three years, but as his lived to reach the age of eighty-four years. health would not permit of the arduous duties He formed a matrimonial alliance with Sarah attached to that work, he took charge of the

Stevens of Wilkes-Barre, and their children seminary at Wilkes-Barre. Two years later, were as follows : Amelia, the wife of A. in 1839, he built a fine private academy of born Whitcomb, July 23, 1791 ; Laura, born his own for young men, known as the Dana May 28, 1793, and died August 16, 1794; Academy, and he successfully conducted that Asa Stevens, born December 17, 1794, mar- institution until 1855. He then went to ried Hannah Pruner, and after her death Jersey Shore, Lycoming County, near Wil- married her sister Nancy Sarah, the ; wife of liamsport on the West Branch of the Susque- Rowland Metcalf, born September 16, 1796 hanna River, where he served as principal of Francis, born May 23, 1798, married Sophia the academy for two years, after which he

Whitcomb; l/ouisa H., born March 17, 1800, went to Saltsburg, Allegheny County, Pa., died in 1841; Anderson, born February 26, near Pittsburg, where he acted in a like

1802, married Ann Jameson, and upon her capacity for two years. He then returned to demise formed a second union with Mary Wilkes-Barre and conducted the academy Eleazer, Hammer; born April 23, 18^4; Syl- bearing his name until October, 1865, when vester, the father of the gentleman whose he moved to the place now owned by our name heads these lines; Mary, born June 16, subject near Morrisville, Bucks County, where 1808, married Lyman C. Kidder; and Charles, he resided until his death, June 19, 1882. born 181 August 6, 1, who died in Philadel- Politically, he was a Whig for some time and phia. later became an enthusiastic Republican. Sylvester Dana, a gentleman of renown in For a brief period he edited a publication in his day both as a lawyer and educator, was Circleville, O., known as the Olive Branchy born May 28, 1806, in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., but abandoned it upon assuming the duties where he was reared. was educated in of principal of the academy at Wilkes-Barre. Yale College, from which he was graduated In religious belief he was a member of the BUCKS COUNTY i6i

Presbyterian Church, and served as deacon a August 18, 1862, when they were mustered number of years. He was widely known and out in Kentucky. They went to Louisville, was highly esteemed wherever known. He drew their pay, and Dr. Dana returned home,

was united in marriage, March 26, 1832, with remaining just six days, when he went to Blizabeth Brown, of Circleville, Ohio, and Harrisburg and was examined and assigned

the following children were born to them : as assistant surgeon to the 107th Reg., Pa. Robert Shoemaker, the subject of this per- Vol. Inf. He joined the regiment at Antie-

sonal history ; Eunice A., September 9, 1837; tam on the day of the battle, and was on the

Elizabeth, March 4, 1840; Louisa A., Febru- field in all of the battles in which his regi-

ary 3, 1842; and Ella, September 16, 1850. ment was engaged up to the date of its con- Mrs. Dana passed into the world of rest on solidation with the Fifth Corps. He re-

February 6, 1878. enlisted in 1864, and was joined to the Fifth Robert S. Dana obtained his intellectual Corps, and in the following year he was com- training under the direction of his father, missioned a surgeon with the rank of major, after which he began the study of medicine continuing until he was mustered out at with Dr. George Chamberlain, who had his Ball's Cross Roads. Receiving his discharge

oflBce and drug-store at Ninth and Shippen at Harrisburg, Pa., July 18, 1865, he returned streets, Philadelphia. He remained with the to Wilkes-Barre, where he remained until latter for five years, or until March, 1857, his removal to where he now resides on June

during which time he attended the Jefferson I, 1866, and in March, 1867, moved to Mor- Medical College, from which he was gradu- risville. He has since been engaged in prac-

ated in the above year. In October of that tice, and has established a reputation which

year he located at Nanticoke, Pa., where he is unsurpassed and will compare favorably practiced for one year, and then practiced at with that of any other in the section. In Wilkes-Barre during the following two years, 1872 he was one of the organizers of the in connection with which he conducted a Morrisville Manufacturing Company, manu-

drug-store. In 1861 he answered the call facturers of soft rubber goods, and it has made for surgeons in the army, and went^to since been a flourishing enterprise, and has Camp Curtin, near Harrisburg, Pa., where resulted in much benefit to the village. He he attended the sick until the troops were served efiiciently as treasurer of the concern

called into active service, when his services for eight years, or until 1889, when it was were refused owing to an oversupply of rented. In the summer of 1882 our subject physicians at the time. He returned home removed to where he now resides. He lives

until August, 1 86 1, when he became a mem- in a beautiful residence one mile from Mor- ber of the Yeager Military Band, which risville, which is made doubly beautiful by joined the 9th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf. They the lawn and flower beds which surround the were called into service in October, 1861, and house on all sides.

the band continued with the regiment until June 13, 1872, Dr. Dana was joined in mar- ;

1 62 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

riage with Fannie Pawling of Philadelphia, a Josiah Scott was born three years after the daughter of James M. and I,ydia (Wood) birth of George Washington ; it was during Pawling. Mr. Pawling was a prominent his young manhood days that his family, attorney-at-law at Norristown, Pa., but is now with several others, moved to Washington

deceased ; after his death Mrs. Pawling mar- County, Pa. General Samuel Scott was born

ried John H. Osborne, and they are both now near Washington, Pa., in 1785 ; he was for deceased. One son has blessed the home of many years a member of the state militia, our subject, namely : Sylvester, who was born and rose rapidly through the offices until he

May 14, 1873, and who was compelled to give ranked as brigadier-general, and during the up his course in Stewart's Business College of War of 1812 he offered his services for the Trenton, owing to a weakness of the eyes, defence of his country, and they were readily is now living at home. Politically, Dr. Dana accepted. His company began the march to is a Republican, and for seven years served the front when they were directed to " wait as a member of the school board, and for two for further orders," —which never came. years was a member of the town council. He General Samuel Scott passed from this life

was one of the organizers and is a member of in 1 8 19. Josiah N. Scott, the father of our the Mercer County (N. J.) Medical Association subject, was born near Washington, Pa., June and is a member and surgeon of the Aaron 26, 181 3; after his marriage to Rachael Wilkes Post, No. 23,0. A. R., of Trenton, N.J. Vance, he settled on a farm near Eldersville, Religiously, he is an active worker in the where he followed the occupation of an agri- Presbyterian Church. Dr. Dana's portrait is culturist the rest of his days. He entered shown on another page in proximity to this. the world of rest in the year 1891; his wife died in 1881.

Dr. Josiah Ernest Scott is the youngest of a family of eight children. When quite ^OSIAH ERNEST SCOTT, M. D., an young he exhibited a taste for reading and

eminent physician of New Hope, study ; mainly by his own efforts, sustained Bucks County, was born September by his inherited Scotch-Irish elements of 16, 1856, near the village of Eldersville, character, he worked his way through normal Washington County, Pa. He is a direct de- and other schools into a recognized standing scendant of Hugh Scott, who was born in the in the Ohio Wesleyan University with the north of Ireland, but was of Scotch blood. class of 188 1. He represented his literary Hugh Scott came to America about 1670, society on various occasions as orator and and settled in Chester County, Pa. ; his son essayist. June 26, 1882, the Doctor was Abraham came next in the line of descent united in the bonds of matrimony with Eliza then his son Josiah, father of General Samuel, beth T. Ivaizure of Cadiz, Ohio: and in her and grandfather of Josiah N., the father of found an aid and spur in a cherished ambi- the subject of this biographical sketch. tion to qualify himself for the healing art. BUCKS COUNTY 163

He farmed in the summer months and taught sonal friendship of the eminent Dr. Agnew, in the winter ; she looked after the house- but neither of them were aware, during Dr. hold cares and found time to compete for Agnew' s life, of the ties of blood that bound

and win prizes offered by various journals. them ; both having descended from Abraham For a time she had charge of the Women's Scott, the son of the patriarch, Hugh Scott.

Department of the National Stockman^ pub- He is a member of the board of censors of lished at Pittsburg, Pa. In 1887, the Doctor the Medico-Chirurgical College in Philadel- removed to Philadelphia, where he entered phia. His fraternal associations are with the

the Medical Department of the University of K. of G. E. ; and Improved Order of Hepta-

Pennsylvania, from which institution he was sophs, of which he is grand archon. The graduated with the highest honors in the Doctor is a member of the Bucks County class of 1890. An opportunity soon pre- Medical Association, and was its president sented itself for a lucrative and very success- during 1897; Pennsylvania State Medical ful practice of his profession in the beautiful Association ; and the American Medical borough of New Hope, Pa., which is situated Association. The home of Dr. and Mrs. on the banks of the picturesque Delaware Scott has been brightened by the birth of River. This town is not far distant from one daughter, Gail Winters, who was born the first location of the Scott family in this July 2, 1889. country more than 200 years ago. Our subject's practice extends into the neighboring state of New Jersey. Aiming for the top- most round on the professional ladder, he has -pjVrVILTON H. I.EIDY, who has been post-graduate courses taken in various spec- 1 1 =y engaged in the mercantile busi- ialties in Philadelphia. Dr. -J- Scott already r* V ness all his life, is one of the has the respect and confidence of those most prominent citizens and enterprising mer- competent to judge of his professional ability. chants of Blooming Glen, Pa., and is senior Dr. Scott and his wife are members of the member of the well-known firm of I,eidy & Presbyterian Church, and our subject is super- Moyer, who conduct a general store. Our intendent of the Sunday School, and presi- subject is a native of Souderton, Pa., and the of the dent Bucks County Christian Endeavor date of his birth is January 13, 1856; he is Union. Politically, he is a stanch Repub- a son of Thomas and Catherine (Hartzel) lican, and has served on the local school Leidy, and grandson of Samuel and Lydia board and is at present chief burgess of New (Gerhart) lycidy. Hope. He was one of the organizers of the Samuel I^eidy was a native of Montgomery New Hope Improvement Company, and is County, Pa., and his life's vocation was that president of the same. Dr. Scott is a mem- of a farmer and tanner. He was joined in ber of the Dr. D. Hayes Agnew Surgical marriage with lyydia Gerhart, and they be-

Society of Philadelphia ; he enjoyed the per- came the parents of the following children : 164 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Samuel, Jonas, and Jacob are deceased Wil- Lena Souder ; Ellen ; and Annie, who mar- ; liam, who resides at Telford, Pa. ; Maria, de- ried Morris Wile, and they are residents of

ceased ; Lavina ; Susan ; and Thomas. Mf. Souderton, Pa. lycidy and family were members and active Milton H. Leidy first attended the primary supporters of the Reformed Church. The schools of his native township and then spent maternal grandfather of our subject was Paul one term at Carversville Academy ; at the Hartzel, a native of Telford, Montgomery early age of sixteen years he was employed

County, Pa. , where he lived all his life busy- as a clerk in the store of Jacob G. Leidy, his ing himself at the occupation of an agriciil- uncle, which was located at South Hatfield. turist. He was widely known throughout Pour years later the store became the prop- the county, and served as county commis- erty of J. S. Shelly, who conducted the same sioner and in other township offices. He was but two years when he sold out to Houck wedded to Sarah Cressman, by whom he & Longaker, and our subject remained in reared two children : Catherine, our subject's their employ but one year. Having become mother ; and Henry C, of Telford, Pa. thoroughly familiar with the mercantile busi-

Thomas I/cidy, the father of our subject, ness, in 1 879 he decided to enter the field of was born at Souderton, Pa., where he was trade on his own account, and accordingly reared to agricultural pursuits and made that went to Pricks, this county, and started a occupation his life's work ; he resided there general store. Two years later he sold out, until 1896, successfully carrying on general and in 1 88 1 moved to Blooming Glen, and in farming and succeeded in accumulating a 1882 built the Blooming Glen Hotel, which handsome competency, and in that year he he conducted for a period of nine years; in retired from the active duties of life and 1893 he sold his hotel and erected him a moved to the village of Souderton, where he handsome home, and the next two years were purchased a neat residence and is spending spent in dealing in cattle. In September, his latter days in quiet and peace. He was 1894, in partnership with C. S. Gulick, he united in the bonds of wedlock with Cathe- again embarked in the mercantile business ; rine Hartzel, who was born near the village two years later Mr.' Gulick sold his interest of Telford, Pa., and to this union has been to A. M. Moyer, and the business has since born a family of five children, who have all been conducted under the firm name of received a common school education and are Leidy & Moyer. They carry a complete line well-to-do citizens in the various localities in of ready-made clothing, and, being men of which they now reside. They were named hustling ability, have established an enviable as follows: Milton H., the subject of this trade. Mr. I>eidy holds the confidence of his narrative ; Francis married Hannah Shive, fellow-citizens and is one of the leading citi- and is a dealer in hides, residing in Philadel- zens of the village. Mr. Leidy has been phia Theodore, also a hide ; buyer, residing treasurer of the Dublin & Souderton Turn- in Philadelphia, was joined in marriage with pike Company since 1891. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 165

May 31, 1879, our subject was united in George Fry, and had two sons and two

marriage with Martha S. Moyer of Hatfield, daughters; and Sophia, whose union with Pa., a daughter of Samuel Moyer, a farmer Peter Hoffman resulted in the birth of one by occupation. They are the parents of son and two daughters. Mr. Schwenk, whose

three children, namely : Harvey, born No- birth occurred on the first day of April, 1780,

vember 16, 1881, is teaching school in Hill- was called to his final rest, May 25, 1856, at

town township; Olin, born April 2, 1886; the age of seventy-six years, one month, and

and Vera, born October 8, 1895. Our sub- twenty-four days ; and his worthy wife, who

ject is not active in politics, but is a stanch was born on the twenty- eighth day of. No-

Democrat ; religiously, he and his family are vember, 1773, was called Home, May 24, members of the Reformed Church. 1854, at the age of eighty years, five months and twenty-six days. Charles A. Schwenk was born in Franconia

township, Montgomery County, July 21, 18 13, 7T%HARI.ES F. SCHWENK, one of the and was reared upon his father's farm. He I leading and enterprising citizens and chose the life of a farmer and became one of Ji ^•«—^ business men who have contributed the leading agriculturists of that section,

largely toward making Perkasie what it is owning a very large farm. His first matri-

to-day, is the secretary and manager of the monial alliance was with Maria Wampole, Standard Hay Baling Company, which has and after her demise he was joined in mar- been in operation there since 1889. He was riage with Catherine Hartzell, by whom he born in Franconia township, Montgomery had one daughter, lyucy. He was married a

County, June 30, 1862, and is a son of Charles third time to Diana Fossbenner, and the fol-

A. and Diana (Fossbenner) Schwenk. lowing offspring blessed their union : George

His grandfather was George Schwenk of F., a leading citizen of Lansdale, Pa. ; Amanda Franconia township, Montgomery County, (Nice) of Hatfield; Harry F. of Telford; and

who was one of a family of five children, Charles F. , the subject of this biographical

namely : Abraham, a carpenter by vocation record. Mr. Schwenk closed his eyes in final

1 Maria; Mary; Elizabeth ; and George. The sleep, January 6, 874, aged sixty years, five latter was born in Berks County, but after months and sixteen days; and his wife,

attaining manhood located upon a farm in Diana, who was born March 29, 1830, and Franconia township, where he operated a was a daughter of Samuel Fossbenner, of saw mill and plied his trade, that of a black- East Rockhill township, Bucks County, died

smith. He was united in hymeneal bonds April 8, 1 89 1, aged sixty-one years and nine with Margaret Althouse, and they became days.

the happy parents of three children, one son Charles F. Schwenk obtained his intellec- and two daughters : Charles A. , the father of tual training in the common schools of his our subject; Catherine, who married Dr. native town until he was fifteen years of age. 1 66 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

when he accepted a clerical position and con- Aaron Ball, the grandfather of our subject, tinued in that capacity for a period of ten was a native of Bucks County, Pa., and was years. He then in the village of Hatfield a descendant of one of the early settlers of embarked on his own account in the mer- this section. His occupation was that of an cantile business, which he carried on for agriculturist, in which he was very success-

one year, when he disposed of it and moved ful. He was the father of four children, who to Perkasie, becoming secretary and manager were named as follows: William H., the

of the Standard Hay Baling Company, which father of our subject ; Aaron was united in

was organized in that year. It has been marriage with Sarah Jones ; Rebecca was

under his ef&cient management that the con- wedded to Evan Penrose ; and Hannah. Our

cern has been most successful, and it was subject's father was born and reared in Bucks

found necessary to build their present and County, and early in life began to learn the

commodious establishment. Our subject is trade of a cabinetmaker and the undertaking a man of excellent business ability, honest, business. He purchased the farm in Rich- and trustworthy, and stands high in the land township which James Roberts now esteem of his fellow-citizens and acquain- owns, and there he carried on general farm-

tances throughout his section of the county. ing, and in addition he worked at his trade. He has built him a fine new residence in re- He was a skilled mechanic and was the only cent years and also owns a tenement. undertaker in his section of the county. In 1884, he was joined in wedlock with I/ater he sold his farm and moved to Fort

Annie L,. Moyer, a daughter of J. H. Moyer, Washington, this county, and there he fol- of Souderton, Pa., and to them were born the lowed farming and operated a mill and feed

following : children L,eonidas ; Catherine ; and store until his death, which occurred at the Esther. Politically, Mr. Schwenk is an un- age of seventy-three years. He was joined swerving supporter of the Republican party. in marriage with Martha Cadwalder, a daughter of Abraham Cadwalder, a prominent farmer of Fox Chase, Pa. They were the parents of the following children: Margaret, 'ARON BAIvIy, of the the wife of well-known firm Charles Reeder ; Elmira, the wife of Aaron Ball & Sons, the largest of William Blake ; Joel was married to Mary furniture and undertaking estab- E. Neighbors ; Mary was first married to lishment of Bucks County, whose store is lo- John Edwards, and upon his death wedded cated at street, 322 Broad Quakertown, is one Penrose Hicks ; Martha was married to Al- of the enterprising and prominent citizens of bert Conard ; Aaron married Rebecca Strawn ; that borough. He was born in Richland town- and Owen. Mr. Ball was supervisor of his ship, this county, October 8, 1827, and is a son township and was a member of the Society of of William H. and Martha (Cadwalder) Ball, Friends. The mother of our subject entered and grandson of Aaron and Margaret Ball. the world of rest at the age of ninety-one years.

^'V'îÂ Eu.- Â'""- j.',f ^rU,ur BUCKS COUNTY 169

Aaron Ball was educated in the Friends' Our subject purchased the Joseph Himelright School at Quakertown and at the Westtown property at 28 Front street, and has remod- into beautiful Boarding School, Chester County ; he then eled and enlarged the same a assisted his father in tilling the soil and spent home. Mr. Ball has served in the borough considerable time in his father's shop serving council one year ; has been treasurer of Rich- as an apprenticeship to the cabinetmaker's landtown I^ibrary thirty years ; has served trade. In 1870, he located in Quakertown treasurer of Union Cemetery, and has held and opened and conducted an undertaking other minor township offices. establishment on Main street in the old Or- Our subject's wife laid down life's burdens phans' School block ; nine years later he re- to enter upon the final rest on September 16, moved to Broad street, and in 1884, Evan H. 1898, after an illness of only three weeks. Strong erected a handsome three-story struc- She is not only greatly missed by her own ture at 322 Broad street, into which our sub- immediate family, . but by a large circle of ject moved his establishment. In 1895. the relatives and jfriends. building was enlarged to 50 by 65 feet and

additional workrooms built ; our subject occupies the three floors, which are well stocked with a complete line of furniture and house- (^>r^LG^RNON S. CADWAIvLADER,

' hold furnishings. Mr. Ball is' a man of hus- tm\ who for many years has played a tling ability and is entitled to much of the ^ prominent part in the political . V.^

credit of the success of this firm ; the proprie- affairs of this section of the state, and who tors are well known throughout the county, is one :6f the leading citizens of Yardley

and their honesty and straightforward meth- ; borough. Lower Makefield township, Bucks ods in business transactions not only bring -County, is now living a retired life in the them a large patronage from the borough, fine old home that was erected by his mater- but from the surrounding townships. nal great-great-great-grandfather, Thomas

Mr. Ball chose for his life companion Re- Yardley, in 1728. He was born in Lower becca Strawn, daughter of Miles Strawn, a Makefield township in 1828, and his ances- resident of Richland township, this county, tors were among the early settlers of Penn- and this union has been blessed by the fol- sylvania, being upper servants of William

lowing children : Miles, who died in infancy Penn. Paternally, he is descended from the ;

Washington, who died in youth ; Franklin Cadwalladers and Taylors, and on the mater- is a member of the firm and he married Emma nal side from the Yardleys and Staplers, all Weldy, and they have reared three children, of whom were prominent members of the

Allen, deceased, Annie and Ethel ; Annie, Society of Friends and intimate acquaint-

who died aged nineteen years ; and Joel, who ances of William Penn. is a member of the firm, was wedded to Ella Algernon S. Cadwallader was reared upon

Beers, and one son, Earl, blessed their home. the farm, and for a time was in attendance at lyo BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

tlie public schools of his native town ; but satisfactorily for a number of years. In at the age of sixteen years he was sent to a 1878 he became a candidate for the nomina- private boarding-school in Chester County, tion for Member of Congress from the Sixth which was efficiently presided over by Ben- District, and although the delegates from his

jamin Price, Esq. , a well-known educator of county supported him in the proper manner, that day. He completed his education in he was defeated by the delegates from Mont- the Attleboro Academy under the tutelage gomery County. In 1886 he was again a

of James Anderson, after which he returned candidate for the nomination to that office,

home and resided with his father on the but after the first ballot, in which he received farm, engaged in agricultural pursuits until a plurality in his own county, he withdrew

he was twenty-one years of age, when he his name. In 1 862, in accordance with the moved to Yardley and engaged in mercantile request of Governor Curtin, he unhesitat- business for some years. Early in life he ingly acted as superintendent of enrollment manifested a deep interest in aflFairs of a of the Bucks County militia, proving his political nature, and cast his first vote for loyalty to the cause of the Union, which he that Whig of Whigs, Henry Clay. He early actively supported throughout the war. In became an earnest advocate of the principle 1864 he was a delegate to the national con-

of protection to American labor and Ameri- vention which renominated Abraham I^in-

can institutions, which he still believes is coln for President, and four years later served the foundation upon which rests the pros- in like capacity when General Grant received perity of our country, being at the present the nomination. Mr. Cadwallader has always time an ardent Republican. In 1861 he was been a progressive and enterprising citizen the popular candidate of his party for State and has done much toward the advancement Senator, and although the party was at that of Yardley, of which borough he was an time greatly in the minority in the county, organizer and its first burgess. He is a man he was defeated but by a few votes. This of high principles, well educated and well was all the more remarkable when the fact is versed in matters of current interest to the considered that from the time of his nomi- people. Being a dutiful citizen, a true friend nation until after the election he was con- and a kind neighbor, he has made and refined to his bed by a serious illness. It has tained the friendship of scores of acquaint- always been his opinion that every man ances. should take a deep interest in the govern- In 1853 Mr. Cadwallader was united in hy- ment of his country, and the only time in meneal bonds with Susan Josephine Yardley, his life when he failed to cast his vote was a daughter of William and Sarah (Hart) he when was too sick to do so, the instance Yardley, and a woman greatly loved for her referred to above. In 1 865 he was appointed many estimable traits of character. This collector of internal revenue for the Fifth happy union has been blessed by the birth of District of Pennsylvania, and held that office nine children, a record of whom is as fol- ;; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 171

lows : L,ydia Yardley, the wife of George Montgomery County, Pa. The animal re-

Warner, Jr., of Philadelphia; William Y., turned home in the night, and its rider was married to Carrie E. Lansing of Trenton, found the following morning and buried at N. J. ; J. Seymonr, who was called Home as the Six Cornered Church. He had two sons,

he was entering upon a manly career, died at namely : John Adam, who was born March

the age of twenty-one years ; Letitia S., the 31, 1 77 1, and lies buried at the Six Cornered

wife of Edmund R. Willets of Trenton, N. J. Church, and Michael, the grandfather of our

T. Sidney married Ida R. Weeks, whose subject. The latter was born September 29,

home was at Lancaster, Pa. ; Sarah Yardley, 1 77 1, and died February 20, 1843, being bur- married to George F. Craig of Philadelphia ied at the old Goshenhoppen Church in Mont-

Augustus J. ; Mary Ann, the wife of Mal- gomery County, Pa. He married Elizabeth

colm Franklin of Philadelphia ; and Helen Gilbert, and their union resulted in the fol- Marr, who is residing at home with her lowing offspring: Adam, the father of our

parents. subject ; Elizabeth, the wife of Jesse Oxen- fine A engraving of Mr. Cadwallader ap- ford ; Rebecca, the wife of Jesse Larkins pears on a preceding page. Mary, who married Jacob Hutt, and Susan, the wife of John Shelly. Adam Neidig was born in Chester County, Pa., but spent his younger days in Montgom- yFpHRiPHRAIM S. NEIDIG, president of the ery County, where he learned the trade of a J— borough council, and a prominent stone mason. This he followed in connection

citizen of Sellersville, Bucks County, was for with farming throughout his active life, own- many years a prosperous grocer of Philadel- ing an excellent farm near Sumneytown.

phia, but is now living a retired life. He is About 1 86 1, he sold his property and moved a son of Adam and Catherine (Schuler) Nei- to Norristown, where the latter days of his dig, and was born near Sumneytown, Pa,. life were spent in retirement. He was a man The first of this prominent family of whom of high qualities and esteemed wherever

we have any record is John Adam Neidig, known. After a long and useful life he passed who left his home at Odenwald, near the river to his eternal reward at the age of sixty-one Negger, Germany, and came to America years, and was buried at the old Goshenhop- August II, 1732, with the Palatines, on the pen Church. Politically, he was a supporter ship "Samuel," of London, Hugh Piercy, of the Democratic party, whilst in religious master, which sailed from Rotterdam. He was belief he was afSliated with the Lutheran the father of one Leonard Neidig, who lived Church. He married Catherine Schuler, a to reach an advanced age. One night Leon- daughter of William Schuler, who resided ard Neidig was riding his horse, and as it be- near Sumneytown, and two children blessed came very cold, he was frozen to death near their happy home, namely: Sarah (Wam- where Sassaman's Church now stands in bold) ; and Ephraim S. , in whom the inter- 172 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

est of this sketch centers. Mrs. Neidig lived latter date, he has served as president of the to reach the advanced age of eighty years, borough council, and has made many friends dying April 8, 1 896. by the conscientious manner in which he has

Ephraim S. Neidig was reared on his discharged the duties of that office. father's farm in Montgomery County, where Mr. Neidig was united in marriage with he obtained his primary education in the dis- Catherine Scholl, by whom he had one son trict schools. He then went to Philadelphia, and two daughters, as follows: Milton H., where he took a course in Crittenden's Busi- who married IJzzie Phann, and has one ness College, after which he accepted a cleri- daughter, Edith ; Clara, who married John cal position in that city. Continuing in that F. Myers, of Philadelphia, and has one son, capacity for two years, he then entered the Walter, and Maggie. Mrs. Neidig was called grocery business on his own account, estab- to her home beyond the river of Death at the lishing a store in Philadelphia on the corner age of thirty-eight years, and he formed a of American and Oxford streets, which he second marital union with her cousin, Diana

conducted with great success until 1 890. Be- Scholl. In his political affiliations, he is an ginning in a very small way and by the prac- unswerving Democrat. Fraternally, he is a tice of the strictest economy during the Civil member of the Improved Order of Red Men,

War, when large numbers of firms were forced lycni Lenape Tribe, No. 3, in which he has to the wall, he placed the business on a firm held all of the offices ; Fidelity Lodge, No.

paying basis and gradually increased his stock 8, Knights of the Golden Eagle ; and also of

until he had a very large and well equipped the Order of Sparta, Delphi Lodge, No. 5.

establishment. He is a man of excellent busi- During the Civil War he enlisted in the 21st

ness propensities, and his shrewd judgment Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf , which was organized for enabled him to surmount many trying ob- the state defense, and served until the regi- stacles, and he established a very large and ment was discharged. lucrative trade. He had a reputation for honesty and fair dealing, and his customers

always found it a pleasure to patronize him.

In 1 890, after years of prosperity, he disposed EV. SAMUEL S. DIEHL, pastor of of his store to his son, Milton H. Neidig, who St. Luke's Lutheran Church of inherited many of his father's excellent traits Nockamixon township, and the of character and still conducts that business. Upper Tinicum Lutheran Church of Tini- In that year, Mr. Neidig moved to Sellers- cum township, is a prominent and highly ville, Bucks County, where he has since en- esteemed resident of Kintnersville, Bucks joyed the peace and quiet of retired life. He County. Rev. Mr. Diehl is a native of Wil-

has taken a deep interest in the progress of liams township, Northampton County, Pa., the interests of his adopted village, and from the date of his birth being January 13, 1862, 1894 to 1897 served as burgess, gince the and he is a son of John H. and Lovina ; ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 173

(Schmell) Diehl, grandson of Samuel and David Mumbauer ; Catherine, who married

Mary (Heist) Diehl, great-grandson of Daniel Abraham R. Mann ; Eliza, who was united and Magdalene (Amy) Diehl, and great-great- in marriage with William Campbell of Rich- grandson of William Diehl. land, Pa.; William B., who was married to William Diehl was the founder of this Amey Levi P. married Isabella Cress- Emma ;

branch of the Diehl family in this country man ; and John H., the father of our subject.

with his six brothers he left his native land, John H. Diehl was born February 6, 1820, Wurtemberg, Germany, and immigrated to and his early days were spent working in his America prior to father's mill, the trade of a the Revolutionary War. learning miller ; According to tradition, he was a teamster in he settled in Williams township, Northamp-

the Revolutionary War, and after it had been ton County, where he carried on agricultural

brought to a close, he settled in Haycock pursuits for a period of seventeen years ; at township, Bucks County, where he took up the expiration of that time, which was in a large tract of land and followed farming. 1867, he moved to Bedminster township, Of the seven brothers who came to this where he pursued his former vocation until country, five located in Bedford County, Pa., 1876. He then moved upon a large farm in while the remaining two settled in this Springfield township, where he lived until

county. Daniel Diehl was born in Haycock 1 886, when he returned to Bedmiiister town-

township, where he resided all his life ; he ship and lived in retirement until his death

built a tavern, which he conducted in con- in 1 89 1. He was united in marriage with nection with farming, and his property now lyovina Schmell, a daughter of Michael lies within the village of Strawntown. He Schmell, and she now resides on the old

was joined in marriage with Magdalene Amy, homestead with her son, David. Three chil- who bore him a family of five children, dren resulted from this union. David, the

: namely Samuel John ; Tobias ; William eldest, a farmer by occupation, married ; ; Sarah and Betsey, the wife of a Mr. Smith. Ann Stever, a daughter of Reuben Stever,

Samuel Diehl, the grandfather of our sub- by whom he has the following children, all ject, was born in Haycock township, but of whom are living : John H., who graduated early in life became a resident of Springfield in 189s from Gettysburg College; Reuben, a township, where he engaged in farming. member of the class of 1899 of the same in- Samuel was a veteran of the War of 1812, stitution ; Joseph T. ; James W.; David H. and after its close joined a volunteer com- Samuel A.; Richard; Elmer; Sally; Isabella;

pany and was commissioned a colonel. As a and Herbert. Eliza, who died in 1894, was result of his union with Mary Heist, the fol- the wife of Samuel R. Stever, and they

lowing children were born : Elizabeth, the reared the following : children William ; Lo- wife of William Hinkle, of Allentown vina; Sally; Francis; Levi; Ida; Samuel, Mary, the wife of Oliver Dunlap, of Haycock deceased ; and Annie. Samuel S. , our subject, township ; Susanna, who was wedded to was the youngest child born to his parents. 174 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Rev. Samuel S. Diehl was educated in the near the site of the present building, and in public schools and in the West Chester State 1804 the Lutheran congregation began to Normal, which he attended for two terms. worship with their Reformed brethren, and Then, after teaching school for some four ever since the church has been Union. On

years, he entered Gettysburg College and was Easter Monday, April 19, 181 3, the corner- graduated in 1889; three years later he grad- stone of a new church was laid, and the uated from the Theological Seminary of the church completed in 18 14, and was used as a same institution. Rev. Mr. Diehl was then house of worship until 1875, when a fine new called to Kintnersville where he took charge edifice was erected. The corner-stone was laid

of St. Ivuke's lyUtheran Church, succeeding on July 3, 1875, and the church was dedicated

Rev. O. H. Melchor, and also became pastor on May 20, 1 877. It is beautifully furnished, of the Upper Tinicum L,utheran Church of and is one of the finest churches in Bucks Tinicum township. County. In 1891 a new pipe organ was Among the early settlers of Nockamixon purchased at a cost of ;^2,ooo, and in 1895 township were many of German nationality, steam heat was also added to its many other and with them they brought the religion of conveniences. The church services for many their native land. The Lutheran congrega- years were exclusively in the German lan- tion of Kintnersville may properly be called guage, but English was gradually introduced

a child of the Springfield congregation. It until now only on every sixth Sunday are

was organized about the year 1755, and its the services partially in German. The con-

first house of worship was an humble log gregation is large and influential, and the

building, which was erected on a site near present membership is over 500. There is the present Center Hill School House. Who connected with the church a flourishing Sun-

the first pastor was is a question, as the day School, an active Missionary Society, and records of the church at that time were not a regular Thursday Evening Bible Class; preserved. The first pastor of whom we have The officers of the church at the present

is any record J. Michael Enderline, who had time are as follows : Trustees, William H. charge in and was succeeded Nickel 1766, by Jacob and Andrew J. Bean ; elders, William T. Miller in 1773. A Mr. Sanna was then E. Litzenberger and Wilson W. Bean; dea- pastor for some time, and was followed by cons, Peter F. Herstine, Henry L. Fox, Peter Ahl in 1789. The following were his George A. Purdy and H. Clayton Franken- successors : Augustus Herman Schmidt, 1798; field. The congregation is united and is Kramer, Rev. 1801 ; John Nicholas Mensch, doing a good work in the cause of our com- 1803; Henry E. Miller, 1823; C. F. Welden, mon Master.

1838 ; C. P. Miller, 1842 ; W. S. Emery, 1865 The ; Upper Tinicum Lutheran congrega^ O. H. Melchor, 1880; and S. S. Diehl, 1892. tion, the other of Rev. Mr. Diehl's congrega- At some time during the Revolutionary War tions, was organized as a result of the mission- the Reformed congregation erected a church ary labors of Rev. John R. Wilcox, of Riegels- BUCKS COUNTY 175

ville. He began his labors by preaching in and John Nice, Esq. ; elders, Aaron F. Har-

; deacons, Reuben the Bridgeton School House, August 17, 185 1, wick and Isaac H. White but after preaching there for several Sundays F. Riegel, Henry C. Sigafoos, William without sufficient encouragement, he opened Shoudt and I^uther S. Tettemer. Rev. Mr. services at Calvin's School House, a few miles Diehl is a highly respected citizen of Kint-

distant, on September 14, 185 1. There he nersville, and is prominent in the denomi- met with better success, and a congregation nation in which he is a worthy minister.

was organized and a church built, the corner- His natural talent and fine education consti-

stone being laid May, 31, 1852. It was a tute him a valued member of the community,

Union church (I^utheran and Reformed), and in which his influence is exercised only for

was dedicated November 20, 1852. Rev. Mr. the good. Wilcox served as pastor until i860. His Our subject was united in marriage June

successor was C. L- Keedy, who remained 23, 1892, with Ida May Swartz, a daughter until 1862, and was in turn succeeded by the of Morris M. and Eliza Swartz, of Coopers-

following in the order given : Rev. Nathan burg, Pa., and to them has come one son,

Yeager, 1863; Rev. Theophilus Heilig, from Irvin David, born December 6, 1895. Rev. 1864 to 1876; Rev. D. T. Koser, from 1877 to Mr. Diehl owns a handsome home in Kint- 1887; Rev. C. L. Fleck, from 1887 to 1892; nersville, which he purchased of Rev. D. and Rev. S. S. Diehl, from 1892 up to the Rothrock. present time. The congregation was connected with the Riegelsville congregation

until 1892, when a new charge called the Kintnersville charge was created, comprising -r-SypVITCHELI. WOOD, who has re- this and the Nockamixon congregation. The 1 1 =y sided in Bucks County, Pa., for a new charge called Rev. S. S. Diehl, of the H -L \„_^ period of fifty-four years, is now Theological Seminary of Gettysburg, as its living on a lot near the village of Johnsville,

first pastor. The old church was at this time Warminster township, Bucks County, and

in a bad condition, and would have necessi- since 1 879 he has been living in retirement,

tated a large outlay of money for repairs, so enjoying the fruits of his early toil. This

it was decided to erect a new church. The worthy and honored citizen was born in.

corner-stone was laid on July 30, 1893, ^^^ Moreland township, Montgomery County,

the new church was dedicated May 27, 1894; Pa., December ii, 18 19, and is a son of John

it is a very handsome edifice, and is a credit and Rebecca (Walton) Wood.

to the congregations which make it their John Wood was born in Montgomery

house of worship. The church has an enroll- County, Pa., where he resided all his life, ment of 350 members, and has accomplished pursuing the vocation of an agriculturist, in much good in the community. The officers which he was quite successful. He died on are as follows : Trustees, Gustavus A. Ziegler the 9th of September, 1856, at the age of 176 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

sixty-five years. He was joined in marriage he is engaged in the wholesale and retail with Rebecca Walton, who died September grocery business, —he was united in the II, 1870. They became the parents of seven bonds of matrimony with Alice Beans. children. Religiously, Mr. Wood is a member of the Mitchell Wood possesses a common school Society of Friends. education which he received in the schools of his native township, and he remained under the parental roof until he attained his majority, during which time he assisted his ,RS. MARY ANN WIGGINS is the father in working the farm. Our subject widow of Benjamin Wiggins, and farmed in Montgomery County a number of resides in the village of Wrights- years, and after his marriage moved to War- town, where she is held in high esteem by minster township, where he continued his her many acquaintances for her many excel- former occupation with marked success. In lent qualities. Benjamin Wiggins was de- 1879 he took possession of his present resi- scended from an old and pioneer family of dence near the village of Johnsville, War- Upper Makefield township, Bucks County, minster township, and has since lived in re- Pa., where he was born October 29, 1808. tirement, spending his latter days in quiet He was a son of Benjamin and Margaret and peace and enjoying a well-earned com- (Buckman) Wiggins, and great-grandson of petency. Mr. Wood is widely known Bezaleel Wiggins, who was a son of Benjamin throughout the township and village and is Wiggins, the founder of the Wiggins family held in high esteem by his fellow-townsmen. in Upper Makefield township. Mr. Wood has served as a school director Bezaleel Wiggins resided in Upper Make- of the township for a period of four years ; field township the greater part of his life, in politics, he has always given his support engaged in agricultural pursuits. Benjamin to the Republican party. On the nth of Wiggins, the father of the husband of our April, 1844, Mr. Wood was wedded to Mary subject, was born on the homestead in Upper H. Walton, who was born in Montgomery Makefield township ; his wife was Margaret County, Pa., 26, June 1824 ; she is a daughter Buckman, a native of Newtown township, of Seth and Margaret (Walton) Walton, and this county. Farming was the chief voca- her father was a mason during his early days, tion of Mr. Wiggins. but later engaged in agricultural pursuits. Mrs. Mary Ann Wiggins was born in Two children resulted from this marriage, Wiightstown, November 4, 18 14, and is a and were named as follows: Alice B., who daughter of Dr. Thomas and Rachel (Betts) was born October 10, 1845, is the wife of Chapman, atjd granddaughter of Joseph Simpson B. Michener, a farmer of New Chapman. Joseph Chapman was a son of

Hope, Pa. ; and Milton, born September 1 2, Abraham Chapman, and both were life-long 1857, who is a resident of Philadelphia, where farmers of Wrightstown township. John

JACOB L. SWENK. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 179

Chapman, the great-great-grandfather of our at the home of our subject ; Elizabeth also

subject, was the founder of this well-known resides with her mother ; Rachel is the wife of and prosperous family in this country, having Uriah Borton, a surveyor residing at Moores- come from his native country, England, to town, N. J., and they are the parents of two America in Dr. 1684. Thomas Chapman was children—Mary C. and William J. ; and Sa- born in Wrightstown township, and he was rah, deceased, who married Edward Home, the leading physician of his community for of Newtown, and they reared one son, Benja- many years, having established a large and min. Mrs. Wiggins has attained an advanced lucrative practice. He departed from this age in life, and is surrounded by relatives life in March, 1849. He was wedded to and many warm friends, who hold her in Rachel Betts, who died in May, 1848, and dear esteem. they \^ere the parents of a family of seven children, namely : Mary Ann, the subject of this personal history ; Susanna, deceased •ACOB h. SWENK, who was reared a deceased Isaac, retired Joseph, ; a resident of miller, has followed that vocation

Wrightstown ; and Thomas, Wilhelmina, ever since, and is now the owner and and Charles, the last three all deceased. proprietor of a mill at Blooming Glen, Hill-

On November 16, 1836, Mary Ann Chap- town - township, Bucks County, Pa., and is man was united in marriage with Benjamin one of the highly esteemed residents of that Wiggins, and he was engaged in the cultiva- village. Our subject was born in the above tion of the soil in Makefield Upper township township October 25, 185 1, and is a son of all his life. He was prominently identified Jacob and Fannie (lycidy) Swenk, and grand- with all measures that tended to promote the son of William Swenk. general welfare of his community, and en- - William Swenk was a native of Hilltown joyed the respect and good-will of. rnany township, Bucks County, Pa., and resided friends throughout the county. His spirit there nearly a:ll his life pursuing the occupa- was called from this earth September 12, tion of an agriculturist. He was united in

1 88 1, and his death was deeply lamented by marriage with a Miss GroflP. his relations and acquaintances; he was a Jacob Swenk, the father of our subject, kind and generous neighbor and friend and a was born and reared in Hilltown township faithful and loving father and husband. Poli- on his father's farm. During his early man- tically, he was a stanch Republican. He was hood he sold hardware at Leidytown, this the inventor of the well-known Wiggins county ; later he became the proprietor of a Plow. He was an active member of the general merchandise store and also dealt in Society of Friends, of which our subject is produce, carting the same to Philadelphia by also a prominent and devoted member. Mrs. wagon, where it was exchanged for different

Wiggins is the mother of four children, who kinds of merchandise. He successfully car- were named as follows : Margaret, who lives ried on that business many years. He died ; ,;

i8o BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

in 185 1 ; his wife passed from this life in diately built the present one. This mill is September, 1888. They were members of operated by both steam and water power, the Hilltown Methodist Church. His wife and our subject does all kinds of grinding was Fannie Leidy, a native of Montgomery and chopping, and also handles all grades of

County, Pa., and a family of ten children flour and feed. Mr. Swenk also owns a small

was born to them, as follows : Mary, the farm which adjoins the mill property. He is

wife of Joseph HofiFord of Philadelphia widely known throughout the county, is one Amanda resides at Leidytown, Pa.; Ellen of the valued citizens of his community, and

died aged twenty years ; Hannah died in is highly respected by his fellow-townsmen.

1 879 ; Addie, the wife of Isaac Kroute of Mr. Swenk was twice united in marriage New Britain township, this county; Juliette, his first wife was lyizzie Gabel of Bedminster widow of the late Henry Yost, now resides township, Bucks County, and she died July, at Silverdale, Bucks County; Sarah died at 1893, leaving a family of three children,

the age of twenty-five yeai;s ; Amos, who namely: Willie, born February 2, 1887; now resides at I^eidytown, this county, where Robert, December 20, 1890; and Paul, May he is engaged in the manufacture of rake, II, 1893. Our subject's second matrimonial

axe and hatchet handles ; Emeline, wedded to alliance was with Mrs. Sarah Fulmer, widow William Yost of Benjamin, Pa., who was of the late Louis Fulmer, a farmer of Hill- formerly a machine agent, but is now en- town township, and they were united in gaged in farming ; and Jacob L. , our subject, marriage June 9, 1897. Mr. and Mrs. Swenk who was the youngest child. are members of the Lutheran Church. Our Jacob L. Swenk acquired a good education subject has always supported the Republican in the public schools of Hilltown, Doyles- party, but has never aspired to public ofEce. town ahd New Britain townships. At the His portrait appears on another page in prox- age of seven years he went to live with his imity to this. uncle, Zachariah I^eidy, of Chalfont, and remaiued with him until he attained the age of sixteen years. He then taught school one term in Hilltown township, and in 1874 be- -OSEPH A. HESTON. Among the gan to learn the trade of a miller, working prosperous citizens of Buckingham with his brother-in-law, Henry Yost, who township, none have been more pro- our owned subject's present mill. He re- minently identified with the interests of the mained with him eight years, when Mr. Yost community than the above-named gentleman, died, and in 1884 our subject purchased the who is a worthy representative of one of the mill property from Mrs. Yost and has operated oldest pioneer families of Bucks County, Pa the same up to the present time. In 1896 whose descendants are very numerous, and the mill was destroyed fire, by and, although are numbered among the most energetic our subject sustained a heavy loss, he imme- and prominent citizens of the county. Mr. ,

BUCKS COUNTY i8i

Heston is now living in retirement, having widow of the late Charles Smith, of Buck- succeeded in acquiring a handsome fortune ingham township; and Joseph A., the subject in pursuing the occupation of an agricul- of this personal history. Mr. Heston chose turist and cattle dealer. He was born in for his second wife, Sarah Smith, who lived Buckingham township, this county, February to the ripe old age of ninety-seven years.

I, 1826, and is a son of Jacob and 3arah (At- This union resulted in the birth of two kinson) Heston, and grandson of Jacob Hes- children, as follows: Ann, who died aged ton, Sr. fourteen years ; and Mary B., the wife of T.

The Heston family was founded in Bucks O. Atkinson, of Doylestown, Pa., who is at County by the great-grandfather of our sub- the head of the Bucks County Trust Com- ject, who was a farmer in Buckingham town- pany, and whose sketch appears on another ship many years. Jacob Heston, the grand- page of this work. father of our subject, was born in this county The boyhood of our subject was passed in in November, 1749, and he conducted a store attending the common schools, and in assist-

in the village of Pineville, Pa. ; at the time ing in the work about the farm; early in life of his death, which was in 1846, he was re- he took charge of the homestead in Bucking- siding in Buckingham township. Jacob Hes- ham township, and carried on general agri- ton had a brother, Hon. Edward W. Heston, cultural pursuits. In April, 1867, our sub- who was widely known throughout Pennsyl- ject located at Pineville, where he engaged

vania ; he was a State Senator many years, in the cattle business, buying cattle and fat- and the village of Hestonville was named in tening them for the market; he successfully honor of him; he died in the year 1824, aged carried on that line of business until a few seventy-eight years. Jacob Heston, our sub- years ago, when he retired from further active

ject's father, was born in the village of Pine- labors, and is now passing the sunset of his

ville, June 18, 1796, and his boyhood days life in quiet and peace. He has disposed of

were spent in his father's store and in attend- all of his real estate. Mr. Heston is well ing the district school. He conducted the store known throughout his section of Bucks in Pineville on his own account for many County, and commands the respect of a wide years, but later moved to Buckingham circle of friends he takes town- ; an active interest ship, where he purchased a tract of land and in any measure that tends to benefit his took to farming; he pursued that vocation fellow-citizens or the community at large. until death claimed him, which was in March, Politically, Mr. Heston was a Whig in his

1852. He was twice united in marriage ; his former days; but upon the formation of the

first wife was Sarah Atkinson, a native 01 Republican party, he joined its ranks and Wrightstown township, and she died March has remained identified with that party up to

10, 1 826, leaving a family of three children, the present time. namely : Elizabeth, who was wedded to Jo- Mr. Heston chose for his life companion siah B. Smith, both now deceased ; Sarah A. Margaret Smith, and they were united in 1 82 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

marriage March 23, 1854. She was a daugh- Funk was a highly educated man for the ter of William and Margaret (Worthington) times in which he lived. His son, Henry

Smith ; her father was a farmer and pump- Funk, the great-grandfather of our subject,

maker all his active days. Our subject's wife was born in Montgomery County, but finally

passed from this earth February 27, 1892, purchased a tract of 600 acres of valuable leaving one child, Sarah M., the wife of land in Springfield township, Bucks County, George L. Eastburn, with whom our subject which became a very valuable estate. He

now resides. settled upon it in 1736, erected a home and built a grist and saw mill on the site of our

subject's present mills, and after a time disposed of a portion of the property, on which QN. HENRY S. FUNK, who stands Springtown now stands, but reserved the in the foremost rank of the promi- water right through the town. He lived nent men of the northern part of there the remainder of his life in the pur- the county, is the editor and proprietor of suance of his duties on the farm and in the the Springtown Times^ and is closely identi- mill, living to reach an advanced age. He fied with many other industries which have was a shrewd and successful business man. aided in the advancement of the standing of Henry Funk, the grandfather of the gentle- the village and Bucks County. He is a son man whose name heads this record, was born of Henry and Susanna (Sleiffer) Funk, and in Springfield township on the home estate, was born on the old family homestead in which he later inherited. In 1776, he erected

Springtown, Springfield township, Bucks the old stone house which is still standing on County, December 23, 1844. the property, and also the new mill in 1782, He comes of a family that has for many which he operated in connection with farm- years past been closely connected with the ing. He was extensively engaged in stock- advancement and development of Springfield raising, having many cattle, horses and sheep. township, and traces his ancestry back to He was married to Barbara Kaufman, who Bishop Henry Funk, a native of Germany, lived for almost a century, and they reared who, upon coming to America in 17 located the following 19, children : Ralph ; Kaufman ; in Montgomery County, Pa., being the first Henry; Sarah; Mary; and Elizabeth. Mr. bishop of the Mennonite Church in this Funk was a Whig, and quite a prominent country. He settled on Indian Creek, and man in political circleSj serving as justice of died in 1760. He was the author of a num- the peace for some years, and representing ber of religious works and was appointed by the county in the State Senate from 1805 to the Mennonite Church to supervise the trans- 1809. He was called to his eternal rest at lation of "Van Bracht's Martyrs' Mirror" the age of fifty-two years. from the Dutch to the German ; a folio of Henry Funk, the father of the subject of pages, and was printed 1)514 in 1748. Bishop this personal history, was also born on the ,

BUCKS COUNTY 183

homestead in Springtown, and after attaining ever-increasing circulation and is now esti-

man's estate inherited the homestead, grist mated at over 1600 copies per issue. He is

and saw mills, and 150 acres of land. Many still its editor with his son, Henry H., as

improvements were effected while it was in business manager. In 1883 he built a large his charge, new barns and houses being built, store and dwelling house in the village, and

and other important changes being made. upon the second floor is the printing and job

He operated the grist and saw mills through- ofiices and his own private office. He has

out his life with more than ordinary success. built several tenement houses which he rents,

He departed this life in 1845, at the age of and owns 200 acres of land with valuable forty one years, while in the midst of an in- water-powers in the vicinity of Springtown. dustrious career. He was united in matrimo- He has also been interested in a number

nial bonds with a daughter of Henry Sleiffer, of enterprises in Springtown and established

Susanna, who is still living and enjoys the the Keystone Paper Box Company, which he

best of health at the advanced age of ninety- still operates. It was mainly through his five years. This happy union was blessed by influence that the village has the accommo- the birth of the following children: Mary, dation of the Quakertown & Eastern Rail-

who married Trauger Enos, died road, of which company he is secretary, Jacob ; who a

at the age of eighteen years ; Elizabeth, whose director and large stock-holder. He is also death also occurred at the early age of eighteen the secretary of an insurance company, and

years, and Henry S., our subject. president of a building and loan association.

Hon. Henry S. Funk attended the Spring- Politically, he is a stanch Republican, and, town Academy until he was sixteen years of besides serving as justice of the peace for age, when at that immature age he assumed many years, he was called upon to represent charge of the mills and real estate bequeathed this district in the State House of Represen- him by his father, and displayed unusual judg- tatives in 1894-98, acquitting himself with ment for one of his years in so responsible a credit to his constituents. He was postmas- position. He tore down the mill erected by his ter of Springtown during Garfield's and Har-

grandfather and erected upon its site one of rison's administrations. He is a man of high

the most complete flouring mills in the state, principles ; has a well-balanced mind, and is together with handle works and saw-mills, and highly respected wherever known. operated them with good results until 1869, Mr. Funk was united in hymeneal bonds

when they were destroyed by fire. He imme- with Ellen Horlocher, a daughter of David diately rebuilt them, and they are with the Horlocher, of Saucon Valley, I^ehigh County,

homestead farms still under his personal su- and they reared two children : Henry H. pervision. In 1885 he established the Spring- who is associated with his father both in the toivn Times^ a forty-eight column, eight-page Paper Box Manufacturing Company and in sheet, which, after a long, hard struggle, he the Springtown Times, married Minnie E. placed on firm paying basis. It has had a an Hess, and has one son, Henry ; and Susie E., 1 84 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

who is a bookkeeper in her father's oiSce and pursuits, and followed farming throughout

a violinist of talent. Mrs. Funk was called his entire active period. He resided in Rock-

to her home beyond the river of Death in hill township the greater part of his life, and 1884, and he formed a second alliance with was the owner of a large tract of land. Sam- Sallie C. Ivaubach, a daughter of William lyau- uel Raudenbush was widely known through- bach, of Durham township, Bucks County. out the county and served his fellow-country-

Socially, he is a member of I/odge, No. 512, men as constable and school director many

F. & A. M. ; and the Patriotic Order Sons of years ; he was also captain in the state mili-

America, of both of which his son is also a tia many years. Politically, he was a stanch member. Democrat, and was a leader in his community. He passed from this life in 1863. He was joined in marriage with Mary Ann Franken-

field, a native of Springfield township, this IIvLIAM H. RAUDENBUSH, Esq., county, and they became the parents of a who one of the family Wi was prominent and of three children, namely : Harriet, progressive agriculturists of Bucks County, the wife of Samuel Y. Fluck ; our subject

Pa., has for the past score of years been was next in order ; and Catherine Ann, the

living in retirement, enjoying the labors of wife of Andrew J. Walp. Our subject's

his early toil, and is one of the esteemed resi- mother entered the world of rest in 1 878. dents of Church Hill. He was born in Hay- William H. Raudenbush acquired a good cock township, this county, February 16, education in the common schools of his native 1833, and is a son of Samuel and Mary Ann township and at Quakertown, and then en-

(Frankenfield) Raudenbush and grandson of gaged in school teaching for four terms in Nicholas and Catherine (Applebach) Rauden- Rockhill township. He remained under the bush. parental roof until his marriage, when he Nicholas Raudenbush was an old innkeeper purchased the homestead, which consisted of at Pleasant Hill, Pa., many years; his early go acres of well- improved land, and carried days were spent following the vocation of a on farming there many years. I^ater he tailor. He was a resident of Strawntown, bought his present home, which consists of Pa., at the time of his death. His wife, whose 27 acres, and successfully carried on general maiden name was Catherine Applebach, bore farming until 1878, when he retired from the him four children. The maternal grandfather active duties of life. He carried on that of our subject was Michael Frankenfield, who occupation in a successful manner and was was a native of Springfield township, this an honor to his calling. county; his wife was Elizabeth Hess. On November 6, 1859, Mr. Raudenbush was Samuel Raudenbush, the father of our sub- joined in the bonds of matrimony with L,ivy ject, was a native of Springfield township, Fulmer, a native of Hilltown township, Bucks Bucks County, and was reared to agricultural County, and a daughter of John and Cathe- ;

BUCKS COUNTY 185

rine (Kramer) Fulmer. She died May 25, on the farm now owned by William Barnsley, 1863, Her only child, Mary Ellen, married and carried on agricultural pursuits there John A. Weisel, a farmer on our subject's until his death. His wife was Sarah Taylor, farm, and they have three children, William a daughter of Timothy and Sarah (Yardley) Francis, Henry Edgar and Clara May. Our Taylor, granddaughter of Timothy and Leti- subject's second matrimonial alliance was tia (Kirkbride) Taylor, and great-grand- with Elizabeth Walp, a native of Richland daughter of Benjamin and Hannah (Towne) township, this county, and a daughter of Taylor, the originators in America of the old George and Elizabeth (Bartholomew) Walp historical family of Taylors. Phineas ; and her father was a shoemaker and farmer by Briggs was the father of the following chil-

trade. Mr. Raudenbush is a member, deacon dren : William ; Samuel ; Yardley James ; ;

and trustee of the Lutheran Church of East Stacy ; and Theodore S.

Rockhill, and is also one of its most active Theodore S. Briggs, the father of our sub- supporters. He is an excellent citizen, tak- ject, after his marriage, settled in Newtown ing an interest in the welfare of his com- township, where he followed farming a num- munity, and, while willing to promote its ber of years, when he moved to Penn Manor, manner, not interests in every possible has this county ; there he continued his former been an office seeker. He has, however, occupation some ten years, and on April 5, consented to fill the office of justice of the 1847, purchased our subject's present farm, peace and other minor offices to which he upon which he made many improvements. has been elected. Politically, he is an ardent In 1868 he bought the adjoining farm, where supporter of Democratic principles. he resided until death claimed him. He was married to Sarah Leedom, a daughter of Benjamin and Mary Leedom, who were of English origin.* This union was blessed fHOMAS BRIGGS, a descendant of one by the following children: Emily K., de-

of the early families of Bucks County, ceased, was the wife of Edward Smith ; Annie

Pa., is a prominent and highly-esteemed citi- M. died, aged thirty-nine years ; Almarine zen of Newtown, this county, and has been W., who died in 1894 at the age of fifty- successfully connected with the Provident one years, was married to Zoanna Paxon

Life & Trust Company of Philadelphia since Wilmer A. , who married Frances Janney, is

1 88 1. He is a native of Upper Makefield engaged in the upholstering business in New township, Bucks County, and is a son of

Theodore S. and Sarah (Leedom) Briggs, and * The first of the Leedoms to come to this country is a grandson of Phineas Briggs. was Richard Leedom and family which was in 1712 ; located at Middletown, where Our subject's grandfather was the founder they he was. engaged in agricultural pursuits. He brought his certificate of the Briggs family in Bucks County ; he from York, England, Monthly Meeting, February 4, settled in Newtown township, and resided 1712. i86 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

and Thomas, our subject. Mr. kept lawn. Our subject has always been a York City ; Briggs was a solid Republican, and served stanch Republican. Religiously, he and his of Friends. as school' director. Religiously, he and his wife are members of the Society family were members of the Society of Friends. His death occurred August 20, 1882, in his seventy-first year; his wife passed from this earth in October, 1896, aged ATSON P. CHURCH, the well- seventy-nine years. 1:^^known proprietor and editor of

Thomas Briggs first attended the primary the Newtown Enterprise^ one of the leading schools of his native township, and later en- weekly papers of Bucks County, is a deep tered the State Normal School at West Ches- thinker, and a witty and versatile writer. He ter. Upon leaving school he taught four is a son of Eleazer F. and Hannah Brock years, and after clerking in a store a short (Price) Church, and was born at Center time, he became associated, April 16, 1881, Bridge, Solebury township, Bucks County, with the Provident I/ife & Trust Company, February 7, 1849. of Philadelphia, in which business he has Eleazer Church, the father of our subject, been very successful, and his work extends was of English descent, and first saw the throughout Pennsylvania. Since our subject light of day in Buckingham township, Bucks has been connected with this business he has County, in 1820. At an early day he was been a resident of Newtown, where he has apprenticed to the printer's trade in the

made many friends, and has won the esteem ofiice of the Doylestown Democrat^ but later and confidence of the entire community. was engaged in mercantile pursuits at Center

June 5, 1881, Mr. Briggs was wedded to Bridge, Solebury township, until 1850. In Ruthanna Eastburn, a daughter of John S. that year, he went to Cockeysville, Baltimore and Martha (Hellburn) Eastburn. John East- County, Md., and published the Baltimore burn was a son of Bezaleel Eastburn, and County Advocate^ and shortly afterwards re-

was the father of four children, namely : Re- moved it to Towson, in the same county. becca; Albert; Ruthanna; and Ellen. Our In 1865, he disposed of the plant in order to subject and wife were blessed by a family of accept an appointment as revenue inspector,

four children, as follows : Marion E. ; Edward and in the following year he purchased a half

A. ; Agnes M. ; and Helen S. Mr. Briggs has interest in the Herald and Torchlight^ at served as school director twelve years, five of Hagerstown, Md. He later located at Tow-

which he was president of the board. He is son, Md., and started the Baltimore County now one of the directors of the Newtown Free Press, which he sold after a period of Improvement Company. He owns a brown- six months, and moved to Newtown, Bucks

stone residence on Washington avenue, which County, in Marqh, 1 868, where he established

is one of the most handsome in the township, the Newtown Enterprise. He built a hand-

and is surrounded by a beautiful and well- some two-story brick block, in which he

OLIVER H. FRETZ, A.M., M. D. ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 189

published his paper, and also built what is stockholders and promoters of the Standard now the Edward Taylor residence on Chan- Telephone Company of Newtown, which was cellor street at a cost of $4,500. The En- established in May, 1896, and is also a stock- terprise was originally a seven column, four holder in the Water Works, Electric Light

page sheet, 1 8 by 24 inches, and it was a suc- Plant, and the First National Bank of New-

cess from the very start. It was a great town. He is a public-spirited man, and is factor in advancing the interests of Newtown held in high esteem wherever known for his and in fact the township, and was patronized many excellent traits of character.

by the leading citizens of the district. He was one of the original stockholders in building the new railroad to Philadelphia, and was also connected with many of the leading IvIVER H. FRETZ, A.M., M D.,whom enterprises of Newtown. He lived a long we represent with a portrait on the

and useful life, and was called to his final opposite page, is a son of William and

rest June 15, 1893, in the seventy-third year Catherine (HoflFord) Fretz, and grandson of

of his age. He formed a matrimonial alli- Isaac and Mary (Moyer) Fretz, and was born ance with Hannah Brock Price, who.se death in Richland township, Bucks County, April

occurred at the age of seventy-seven years, 9, 1858. There he lived till he was ten years and their union was blessed by the birth of old, when he removed with his parents to

the following children : William, a farmer Quakertown, where he received the best Watson P., in whom the interest of this school advahta'gesthe borough afforded, and

sketch centers; Mary C, the wife of G. M. was subsequently seiit to Muhlenberg Col-

Wright of Philadelphia; Harry F., who fol- lege, AUentownJ Pa.; to complete his educa-

lows the trade of a printer in Newtown ; and tion. He began the "study of medicine in

Fannie M., of Philadelphia. 1879, first undeir that able practitioner and

Watson P. Church attended the . public scientist. Dr. I. S. Moyer, of Quakertown schools, after which he was engaged in teach- afterward in the same year he entered the

ing and assisting his father in the office. He Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Pa., also held a clerical position for some time, and, after pursuing a three years' graded but finally succeeded his father as editor and course . of study, graduated March 30, 1882, proprietor of the Newtown Enterprise. He receiving the degree of Doctor of Medicine. has instituted many improvemehts since tak- He began the practice of medicine at Sal- ing the reins in his hands. The. paper is fordville, Montgomery County, Pa., but,

chiefly of local interest, but its well-written owing to ill health, at the end of three years articles attract attention throughout the he sold his practice and removed to Quakei-

county. The paper is up-to-date in every town, where he is now successfully engaged respect and has a large circulation of 2675 in the drug business, combined with a large copies. Mr. Church is one of the original and lucrative office and consulting practice. 10* I go BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

In 1886-87 he took a post-graduate course of orary degree of Master of Arts (A.M.) upon instruction at the Philadelphia Polyclinic and him.

College for Graduates in Medicine, fitting In January, 1 894, Dr. Fretz was appointed himself as a specialist in diseases of the eye, a clinical assistant in the eye department of

ear, nose and throat. In 1 889 he completed the Jefferson Medical College Hospital, Phila- a course in pharmacy at the National Insti- delphia, Pa. He received the appointment of

tute of Pharmacy, Chicago, 111. Since 1886, borough physician of Quakertown in 1888, when he was elected a school director of and has since been re-appointed annually. Quakertown borough, he has been closely In July, 1893, he was appointed by the identified with the educational interests of his borough council a member of the borough town and the county. He was re-elected board of health, a position he still holds, he school director in 1889, and served three having recently been elected president of the years as president and one year as treasurer board.

of the board. November 2, 1898, he was elected presi- In 1890 Dr. Fretz was nominated on the dent of the Bucks County Medical Society.

first ballot for Assembly by the Bucks County He is also a member of the State Medical Democratic convention, and was elected by Society of Pennsylvania, the L,ehigli Valley nearly 300 majority. He represented his Medical Association, the American Medical county in the I,egislature of 1891 with Association, the American Academy of Politi- marked ability, and to the utmost satisfaction cal and Social Science of Philadelphia, the

of his constituents. In the fall of 1892 he Pennsylvania Forestry Association, and the was renominated by acclimation and re-elected Bucks County School Directors' Association,

by a largely increased majority. In the ses- of which he served as vice-president. He is

sion of 1893 he served on the following im- also medical examiner for various life insur-

portant committees : Educational, Municipal ance companies.

Corporations, Public Health and Sanitation, On November 21, 1898, Dr. Fretz was and Congressional Apportionment. He in- elected by the board of trustees a censor of troduced a number of bills in the lycgislature, the Medico-Chirurgical College of Philadel- the most important of which was an act to phia. He is a member of the following authorize the State Superintendent of Public organizations : Quakertown Lodge, No. 5 1 2, Instruction to grant permanent state teachers' F. & A. M. ; Zinzendorf Chapter, No. 216, certificates to graduates of recognized literary Royal Arch Masons, Pa. Bethlehem, ; Penn- and scientific colleges. He was elected by sylvania Commandery, No. 70, Knights Tem- the House of Representatives a member plar, of of Philadelphia ; Secona Tribe, No. 263,

the Pennsylvania Election Commission for I. O. of R. M. ; and Marion Circle, No. 16,

1893-94, whose duty it was to open, compute B. U. (H. F.), of Pennsylvania. On October and publish the vote for state treasurer. June 26, 1882, he married Elmira A. Roeder, 21, 1893, Ursinus College conferred the hon- daughter of Nathan C. and L,ucinda (Antrim) BUCKS COUNTY 191

Roeder. Both are members of the Reformed came to occupy the pulpit_in 1877. On Janu-

Church, and their union was blessed with ary 20, 1872, the old Union Church and

two children : Roberts Bartholomew, born grounds became the property of the Lutheran

January 19, 1884, and died October i, 1884; Congregation at a cost of $2,200, and in

and Raymond Lamar, born April 24, 1885. 1878, by a vote of the members, $1,300 was spent in repairing the church building. Rev. Koser remained until 1887, when he was succeeded by Rev. Cyrus L. Eleck, who has

^EV. CYRUS I.. FLECK is the highly since served as pastor, and his good work, esteemed and beloved pastor of the perseverance and business methods have made Lutheran Church at Riegelsville, for him a host of admirers, not only among Pa., and has presided over the congregation his parishioners, but among the people in

of that church since 1887. general, who never fail to show their appre-

The Lutheran Congregation at Riegels- ciation of honest endeavor. In 1889, it was ville was founded in 1850 by Rev. George decided, to build a new house of worship, Diehl and Rev. John McCron, who held ser- and accordingly, while the old church was

vices in the little old school house, which is being torn down, services were held in the now the residence of Mrs. Mary Steckle. In G. A. R. Hall, which the congregation had that year a union church was erected for the rented until the completion of their church. use of the Lutheran and Reformed Congre- This hall took fire one day and the building gations, with Rev. George Diehl as pastor of burned to the ground, the church sustaining

the former. Later, Rev. J. R. Wilcox assumed a loss in church furniture of. $200. They charge of the Lutheran body. He soon organ- then rented Mechanics' Hall until January 5, ized another congregation in Tinicum town- 1890, when the lecture-room of their church ship, about eleven miles south of Riegels- was completed. In the meantime the founda- ville, building and dedicating a church in tion of their church had been laid, and on the 1852. He also preached at Raubsville, Pa., fifth day of May, 1889, the corner-stone was and in Holland School House, N. J. He put in place with appropriate ceremonies, served until i860. Rev. C L. Keedy then impressive sermons being delivered by Rev. went to Riegelsville and occupied the pulpit R. W. HufiFord, of Easton, Pa., and by Rev. of that church until 1862, when he was suc- A. R. Steck, of Stewartsville, N. J. In Sep- ceeded by Rev. Nathan Yeager, whose death tember, 1890, the Lutheran Congregation parishioners his were called upon to mourn dedicated their new edifice, which is one of in and lies 1863, he now buried in the little the handsomest churches in the village. It churchyard. Rev. Mr. Wilcox and family are was planned by Rev. A. K. Eelton, a Luthe- also buried there. Rev. Theophilus Heilig ran minister, and was erected at a cost of the was next pastor, taking charge in 1863, 1 1 2, 000. Considerable debt existed at the continuing and until Rev. David T. Koser time of dedication. But our subject, with ; ;

192 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

his faithful congregation, set about the task George Fleck was born in Germany in 1748, of liquidating this amount with an energy and died in 1836, at the age of eighty-eight that was not to be denied, and have succeeded years. He was a healthy, vigorous old gen- in raising all but |i,ooo of the amount, and tleman, reaping grain with his sickle in his that they expect to have by the close of eighty-seventh year, just one year prior to the present year. The church is built of his death. His descendants number over granite with brown stone trimmings, and is 1,500, and are scattered throughout the beautifully situated on a rise of ground over- United States, as far east as New Jersey, and looking the village and commanding an ex- west as far as California. He was the father

It seats children, namely : George ; Conrad cellent view of the Delaware River. of nine ;

with seating Catharine ; Elizabeth 400 persons, has a lecture-room a Margaret ; Jacob ; capacity of 250, and in addition a primary and Henry, whose son, Rev. H. R. Fleck, is now class-room, the entire church being lighted minister of the Lutheran Church at New

by Bailey reflectors. The congregation now Kingston, Pa. ; David ; and Mollie. He and numbers 336 members, and is one of the all of his children except one are buried in largest and most influential bodies in the the little cemetery in Sinking Valley, Blair village. Rev. Mr. Fleck is an agreeable and County, which he deeded to the lyUtheran

convincing speaker, and there is a practica- Church from his own farm. The Flecks, bility about his sermons that always finds a almost without exception, are Lutherans, and resting place in the minds of his hearers. he gave land for both a church and cemetery

He is a man of fine executive abilities and is and a school house. The tract of land he

thoroughly capable of caring for his large owned lies in the heart of the valley, and

flock, both as to their temporal and spiritual numbers over 350 acres, and is still in the wants. He possesses the confidence and possession of his descendants, having been esteem of all his people whom he has served handed down to his two sous, Henry and

faithfully and well. David, between whom it was almost equally

Rev. Cyrus L,. Fleck was born in Sinking divided.

Valley, Pa., the date of his birth being Janu- David Fleck, the youngest son born to his ary 12, 1855, and is a son of Gabriel and Re- parents, lived to reach the advanced age of becca (Stoner) Fleck. He traces his ancestry seventy-seven years, and reared a family of back to George Fleck, who was one of four nine children. Gabriel, his oldest son and

brothers who came to America prior to the the father of our subject, fell heir to his

Revolutionary War ; two settled in Mont- father's share of the original farm, and was a gomery County, Pa., and the other two, of well-to-do farmer. He died at the age of

whom George was one, settled in Blair seventy-one years, but his wife still survives County, of the same state. They were him, being surrounded by many warm friends, among the early settlers in that county, and who hold her in dear esteem. Their union both served in the Revolutionary War. resulted in the birth of twelve children : Ira BUCKS COUNTY 193

he was Elizabeth; last three years of his college days Eli; John Mosheim ; Lindley ; appears at the proctor in the college. Clara ; Cyrus Iv., whose name united in the bonds of head of these lines; Sarah; Harry; John Rev. Fleck was Annie K. Leas, a daughter Stoner; Clair; and David. All of these are matrimony with of Granite Hill, Pa., October living at the present date except John Mos- of John Leas, has been blessed by heim, who died in infancy about 1850, from 26, 1887, and this union children, namely: Carl an attack of scarlet fever. Lindley and our the birth of two and John subject are ministers of the Gospel in the Weiser, born January 24, 1890, 1891. IvUtheran Church, and all of the sons with Gabriel, born October 3, the exception of the youngest have taught school. Ira located in Kansas some time in

the '70's, where he taught school and became county superintendent of public instruction. EV. JACOB B. KREWSON, who Presbyterian He also served one term in the State I^egis- has had charge of the Forest lature, and is now serving his fourth term as Church at the village of clerk of Russell County. Harry and John Grove, Buckingham township, since 1869, is served in the Spanish-American War, the a worthy representative of one of the o.ld and

former being a first lieutenant and the latter well-known families of Bucks County. The a sergeant of the Sheridan Troop Cavalry, Presbyterian Church, of which our subject is Pennsylvania Volunteers from Tyrone, Blair pastor, was dedicated in 1855, and the first County, Pa. They were eucamped at Mt. pastor was Rev. Henry E. Spayde, who had Gretna, Pa., and at Camp Alger, Va., and set charge of the same until April, 1867, and

sail for Porto Rico from Newport News, land- two years later Rev. Mr. Krewson became its ing at their destination, after being held a pastor. Rev. Mr. Krewson was born in

day and night on a sand bar, shortly after Montgomery County, November 3, 1838, and the signing of the protocol had put an end to is a son of John and Sarah Ann (Barnes)

hostilities. Krewson.

Rev. Cyrus I/. Fleck received his primary John Krewson was born and reared at education in the common schools, and this Rockville, Bucks County, Pa., and resided was supplemented by a course in the Penn- in Montgomery and Bucks County all his

sylvania College, from which institution he life. His vocation was that of a carpenter,

was graduated in 1 884 ; he then took a theo- which trade he learned during his early days. logical course and was graduated with the He passed from this life in Philadelphia in class of 1887. On the seventeenth day of January, 1882. Mr. Krewson was united in July, of that year, he took charge of his pre- marriage with Sarah Ann Barnes, a native sent pastorate in Riegelsville. Prior to enter- of Montgomery County, and she now resides ing college he taught school a number of in Philadelphia with one of her sons. Eight

terms in Blair County, Pa., and during the children were born to this union, namely : ; ,

194 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Howard H., a carpenter, residing in Phila- Bucks County; Mary Polk; Robert Steele; delphia; William E., a druggist of Phila- Carroll Brelsford; and Emma Mumford. Philadelphia; Rev. Mr. Krewson has been secretary of delphia ; Harriet also resides in Mechanics Mutual Insurance Rev. Jacob, the subject of this sketch ; and the Farmers & Mary, Isaac, Samuel Rush, and Robert Company of Bucks County for the past Steele, the last four deceased. twelve years. Fraternally, he is a member Rev. Jacob Krewson was intellectually of the A. O. U. W., Quaker City Lodge, No. trained in the public schools of his native 1 16, of Philadelphia; and is also a member of township, and at the Tennant School of Harts- Neshaminy Castle, No. 139, Knights of the ville, Pa., where he studied four years, grad- Golden Eagle of Jamison's Corners, Pa. He uating in 1863; in that year he entered has also been treasurer of the Philadelphia Princeton College, New Jersey (now Prince- North Presbytery nearly twenty-five years. ton University), graduating three years later he then entered the Theological Seminary of Princeton and was graduated in 1869. In that year he took charge of his present ^TARVEY R. SMITH is a prominent parish. Rev. Mr. Krewson has increased '^1 and enterprising young agriculturist the membership of his congregation to 75 of Upper Makefield township, members, whom he serves faithfully, and he Bucks County, and comes from an old and is not only much beloved and dearly esteemed well-known family, which was established in by his congregation, but by the entire com- this county when it was in a primitive state, munity as well. almost untouched by the hand of civilized Rev. Mr. Krewson was united in the bonds man, and inhabited by Indians who attempted of wedlock with Mary Alice Ward, who was to repel the advances made by the white race

born in Bath, Northampton County, Pa., into their territory. William Smith, the first

September S, 1840, and who is a daughter of of the family tq come to this country, was a

William and Rebecca (Wallace) Ward ; her native of Yorkshire, England, and located father, who is now deceased, was a promi- in Wrightstown township, Bucks County, Pa nent farmer of Bucks County, but subse- in 1684. quently moved to Carlisle, Pa., where he Ralph Smith, the grandfather of our sub- died in 1843. To our subject and wife a ject, a son of Ezra and Margaret (Hayhurst) family of eight children was born, namely: Smith, was born in Upper Makefield town-

J. Ward, a prominent groceryman of Phila- ship and cultivated the soil as a means of delphia, was wedded to I/illian Harberger; earning a livelihood. He settled upon the Catherine is the wife of Francis Durell farm now owned by the gentleman whose

Weaver, and they reside at Belmar, N. J.; name heads these lines, and there followed Carrie Edith Hodges Jennie, ; widow of the his occupation for many years, or until 1868, late Dr. William J. Kelley of Forest Grove, and making it his home until his death, in BUCKS COUNTY 195

the railroad and 1893, in Buckingham township. He was .school, he was employed on united in marriage with Miranda Walton, a subsequently worked in different mills until native of Montgomery County, Pa., who died his father's death, when he took charge of

in 1878, and three years later he formed a his present farm in February, 1897. He has second union with Susan Warner, who is since engaged in general farming, and suc-

also deceased. His first marriage resulted in cess has attended his efforts on all sides. the following offspring: Amos W., who died His farm consists of 100 acres of well-im- at the age of twenty-one years; Margery, the proved land, and he cultivates it according to relict of William Keyser, resides in the vil- modern principles and with the latest im- forms an essential lage of Wrightstown ; Barclay J., a merchant proved machinery, which of San Francisco, Cal., married L,ydia Wood; factor in successful farming.

and Edwin E., the father of our subject. March 25, 1897, Mr. Smith formed a ma- Edwin E- Smith was born in Buckingham trimonial alliance with Flora B. Gilmore, who

township, April 8, 1839, and although he be- was born in lyambertville, N. J., February

came a farmer, he also conducted a general 27, 1869, and is a daughter of Eli H. and merchandise store at Buckmanville for a. Matilda (Barber) Gilmore, the former of whom

short time. In 1868, he located upon the old is a mason by trade in Centerville, Pa. Our

homestead in Upper Makefield township and subject is a Republican in politics, but is not

there carried on farming until his death, Jan- active. Religiously, he is a member of the

uary 14, 1897. He was one of the good, Friends' Meeting, and his wife is a faithful substantial citizens of that section, and was member of the Baptist Church. held in highest esteem. He formed a marital union with Esther lyivezey, who was born in Philadelphia, a daughter of Edward and

Mary (Shallcross) lyivezey, the former of EV. CHARI.es H. RORER, a bril- whom was a farmer. Three children were liant orator and an efficient and

born to them, namely : Thirza M., born Octo- faithful minister of the Methodist

ber 28, 1 86 1, the wife of John Stackhouse, a Episcopal Church, is installed as such in the farmer residing near Davisville, Pa. ; E. Ru- church of that denomination in Bristol, the dolph, a farmer and butcher, residing on a most beautiful church edifice in Bucks farm in Upper Makefield township, was born County. He is a son of David and Mary July 10, 1868, and married Sarah W. Balder- F. (Bickley) Rorer, and was born in the city

ston, of Dolington, Pa. ; and Harvey R., the of Philadelphia, being the fifth generation of subject of this record. the family to make that city their home. Harvey R. Smith obtained his educational He comes of a family of great distinction training in the common schools of Upper and is descended from one bearing the name Makefield township, where he was born on of Rorer, who was one of seven men selected the homestead, June 8, 1872. Upon leaving by Martin Luther to make a translation of 196 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

the Bible. Henry Rorer was the first of the i by the birth of three sons, who have attained

family to leave his native country, Switzer- the highest distinction in their chosen fields

land, and seek a home in the new world. of labor, namely : Rev. Charles H. ; Rev. He located near Frankford, Philadelphia Virgil Eugene, pastor of the Nineteenth

' County, Pa., in 1750, but after Gen. Brad- Street M. E. Church of Philadelphia ; and dock's defeat he moved to Oak Lane, where Prof. William D., the efl&cient principal of the family has since lived. His brother, the Girls' High School of Philadelphia, the

Joseph Rorer, an extensive agriculturist of largest institution of its kind in the state.

his day, was one of the heroic soldiers of the Rev. Charles H. Rorer obtained his pre- Revolutionary War. liminary training in the public schools of John Rorer, the great-grandfather of our Frankford, and in 1871 was promoted into subject and a son of Henry, resided on ^he the Central High School of Philadelphia, family homestead at Oak I^ane, where he from which he was graduated in 1875. He always followed farming. He was the pro- then entered upon a course of study in Dick- genitor of a large family of children, among inson College of Carlisle, Pa., and upon whom was David, the grandfather of our graduating in 1881 received the degree of subject, who became one of the substantial A. B., and in 1884 received the degree of and highly respected citizens of that com- A. M. In 1882, he entered the Conference munity. David Rorer, the father of the of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Phila- gentleman whose name heads these lines, delphia, and was first stationed at Cochran- was also born on the family homestead at ville, where he held one charge and another Oak L,ane, and like his forefathers his occu- at Friendship. In 1884, he was ordained a pation was that of an agriculturist. He was deacon and accepted a charge at Tasker, a man of good character, an excellent busi- Philadelphia County, and during his pastor- ness man, and became quite prosperous. ate a new church was erected and dedicated June 24, 1897, he met his death as a result of as a result of his excellent work in that com- an accident on the trolley system on the Old munity. He continued there for three years, York Road, and he is sadly mourned by his and in 1886 was made an elder. In 1887 he family and a large circle of friends, among was assigned to Kedron, Delaware County, whom he had resided during his entire life. Pa., from whence, in 1889, he went to Cata- Prior to his time the Rorer family was always sauqua, Lehigh County, and officiated as affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, but pastor of the M. E. Church of that borough David Rorer became an active and consis- for three years, and caused to be erected a tent Baptist. He was united in hymeneal beautiful new church. In 1892, he was bonds with Mary F. Bickley, a daughter of called to Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia County, George Bickley, who was widely known as a where he remained luitil 1895, when he ac- local minister about Frankford, Philadelphia cepted the pastorate of the M. E. Church of County, and this happy union was blessed Bristol, where he has since remained. He

IRVIN AARON. BUCKS COUNTY 199

aided materially in the erection of a n,ew fRVIN AARON, the popular and efficient church in 1895 and 1896, which is undoubted- sheriff of Bucks County, whose portrait

ly the handsomest in Bucks County, as well appears on the opposite page, is also a

as the largest. It is of the Romanesque style member of the firm of Comly & Aaron, of architecture, and has an auditorium which dealers in lumber and coal at Yardley, Bucks

will comfortably seat 700 people, and is so County, and is one of the leading Republi-

arranged that a chapel can be annexed so as cans of Doylestown. He is a son of Deros- to accommodate from 700 to 800 additional. tus and Caroline (Bodder) Aaron, and was

The architect of this edifice was Mr. 1,. S. born at Hilltown, Bucks County, April 22, Jacoby, formerly of Bucks County, but now 1842.

of Allentown, Pa., and the builders were Paternally, he is of Welsh descent, whilst

Charles Walton & Son of Bensalem, Bucks on the maternal side he is of German stock. County. Rev. Mr. Rorer immediately sprang His grandfather, Obed Aaron, was a native into favor with his congregation, and by his of New Britain township, Bucks County,

honorable and charitable disposition he won where he spent his entire life in agricultural his way into the affection of the entire popu- pursuits. He was the progenitor of a large lace of Bristol. He is a clear and logical family of children, one of whom was Deros- thinker, and a pleasing and convincing tus Aaron, the father of our subject. speaker, both in the pulpit and. on public Derostus Aaron was born in New Britain occasions, when he is honored with an invi- township, where he followed the occupation tation to an address, make as is frequently the of a farmer throughout his active life. He case. He has an easy and masterly grace, passed to his eternal rest in 1856. Politi- and, speaking without th^ use of manuscript, cally, he was an unswerving Democrat. He he invariably commands the attention of his was united in hymeneal bonds with Caroline hearers. As to his character too much can Bodder, and they became the happy parents not be said in praise. He places a high ideal of seven children, five sons and two daugh- as to true manhood, which he lives up to in ters, namely: Horatio, deceased; Samuel, every respect. The membership of the church deceased; John P., a resident of Lansdale, has been greatly increased under his skillful Montgomery County; Irvin, the subject of guidance and now numbers 530 persons, while this biographical sketch ; Hughes O., who the Sunday School has an enrollment of 600. makes his home in Philadelphia ; Arabella, December 4, 1884, Rev. Mr. Rorer formed deceased, the wife of Robert Ritchie of Mont- a matrimonial alliance with Carrie Adelaide gomery County; and Amelia, the widow of Walton, the youngest daughter of Joseph Charles Detterer of Philadelphia. Walton, Esq., of Chester County, and a de- Irvin Aaron was reared in Hilltown town- scendant of Revolutionary stock. She is a ship, where he attended the public schools woman of maiiy virtues and has been a true and obtained a good English education. He help-meet to her husband. remained upon the home farm until after his 200 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

father's demise. In 1861 he went to Mont- other candidates. He was duly elected, de- gomery County and engaged in tilling the feating his opponent for political distinction, soil for one year. He then went to Johns- William Sellner, by the overwhelming ma- ville, where he worked at farming for seven- jority of 2806 votes. He entered upon the teen years, being employed by the year. duties of the office on the first Monday of Jan- He then received an appointment as deputy uary, 1897, and his term will expire in 1900. sheriff and went to Doylestown, where he Mr. Aaron is a stanch and loyal Republican,

entered upon the duties of that office the having broken from the political affiliations

first Monday in January, 1879, serving under of his Democratic ancestors early in life,

Samuel L,. Ely for three years. The next casting his first vote for A. G. Curtin, the old four years he was engaged as traveling sales- War Governor. His first presidential vote man, handling windmills for B. S. Williams was for lyincoln in 1864. & Co., of Kalamazoo, Mich. During the He was united in matrimonial bonds Feb- years 1886 and 1887 he again served as ruary 22, 1893, with Sarah P. Weiss, a daugh- deputy sheriff under Elias Eastburn, and ter of William B. and Amanda Weiss of during the succeeding four years under Jo- Doylestown, and they were the parents of seph R. Comly. In the fall of 1890 he was one child that died in infancy. Socially, he nominated the is by Republican party for a member of Aquetong Lodge, No. 193, sheriff by acclamation, but, owing to the Dela- I. O. O. P. mater slump of that year, was defeated after

a hard fight by his opponent, J. Johnson Beans. The Democratic majority for that TT^HARLES WALTON, a well-known office is usually about 600 votes, but our sub- I jp contractor and builder who has done ject was defeated by a scanty majority of 95. ^*—^ an extensive business in various This fact alone goes to prove the esteem in sections of Bucks County, resides in a plea- which he is held, for he received the votes of sant home in Andalusia, Bensalem township, many of the opposing party to the detriment and is a representative of one of the oldest of their party attachments, in order to place families in that community. He is a son of a good man in ofiice. In the spring of 1891, John and Martha (Wilkinson) Walton, and he formed a partnership with Joseph R. was born on the old family homestead in the Comly, under the firm name of Comly & township in which he now lives April 17, Aaron, they and embarked in the coal and 1834. lumber business at Yardley, Bucks County, The family is of English descent, but at where they have since been doing a large an early day became established in this and prosperous business. Mr. Aaron re- country. The first of whom we have any mained there in charge of the business until authentic record is William Walton, the great- 1896, when he was given the Republican grandfather of our subject, who was a resi- nomination for sheriff over a number of dent of Byberry, Philadelphia County, for a 1

BUCKS COUNTY 20

Rebecca Wilkinson. This union time, and later of Buckingham, Bucks Bryan and the birth of twelve children, seven County. His son, William Walton, was born resulted in of whom live at the present day: Mary, in Byberry, October 7, 1779, and in early

deceased ; Alfred, deceased ; Charles Joseph, manhood located upon a farm in Bensalem ;

; Rebecca, de- Caroline ; William township, which continued as the family deceased ; ceased Rachel; Anne; Emma; Edward, homestead until the death of our subject's ; Mr. Walton mother. His occupation was that of a who died young; and John. and his wife joined farmer, and he lived a long and usefuMife, passed away June 2, 1869, of Death November 27, dying in 1862, at the advanced age of eighty- him beyond the river four years. He was united in marriage with 1882. of this personal Rachel Sipler, and five children were born to Charles Walton, the subject them: Elizabeth; John; Sarah; and two history, was reared upon his father's farm who died in infancy. He was a prominent and attended the public schools. Upon leav- member of the old state militia. ing school he was employed as a farm hand John Walton, the father of the gentleman for different parties until he was twenty whose name heads these lines, was born on years of age, when he moved to Camden, trade of a carpen- the home farm December 12, 1805, and spent N. J., and there learned the his entire life in Bensalem township, engaged ter, which line of business he has since fol- in agricultural pursuits. When he was a lowed with the best of results. Being ambi- young man he walked across the country to tious and an industrious worker, he extended Indiana, where his sister and brother-in-law his business and began contracting and were located, with the object of making his building, and since his residence in Andalu- home there, but he returned home again, sia has made contracts for work in different making the long and tedious journey on foot. parts of the county, especially in Holmes- Politically, he was a Democrat, and served as burg, where he has erected many buildings. school-tax collector one term, and as super- He enjoys an enviable reputation for good visor of the township for two years. He took honest work, and is patronized by many of an active interest in the success of the party's the best citizens of the community. He ticket, and urged all of the voters out on elec- contracted for and built the M. E. Church in tion day as a duty which they owed to them- Bristol, this county, which is said to be as selves and to the government. fine a church building as there is in the While not a member of any church, he county. He has ever been found a dutiful inclined towards the religious doctrines of the citizen, and is held in highest esteem by all Quakers, and brought up his children under with whom he comes in contact, both in religious influences. He was united in mar- business and social relations. riage with Martha Wilkinson, who was born In 1859 he was united in marriage with in Lower Dublin township, Philadelphia Anna Elizabeth Rue, who was born in New- County, i, 18 July 16, and was a daughter of portville, Bristol township, in 1840, and is a 202 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

daughter of I,ewis and Ann Rue. Our sub- delphia William, deceased James, also de- ; ; ject and his worthy companion in life are the ceased ; one that died in infancy; John P. J.,

parents of three children : John E., who was whose name heads this narrative ; Elizabeth,

a carpenter by occupation, died of lung who resides in Philadelphia ; Hannah, who trouble in Denver, Colo., when thirty- three became the wife of Joseph Canfield, and they

years of age ; Lewis R., a contractor and are highly esteemed residents of Oak Lane,

builder who is associated in business with Pa. ; and Katie, Sallie, and Wilimina, who his father, and Agnes G. are deceased. Mr. Sensenderfer passed from

this earth November 28, 1888. The mother of our subject resides with her daughter

Elizabeth in Philadelphia, where she is sur-

'OHN R J. SENSENDERFER, who rounded by a large circle of friends, who hold was city commissioner of Philadel- her in dear esteem.

phia for three terms of three years John P. J. Sensenderfer prepared himself each, is now one of the prominent and sub- intellectually for the battles of life in the stantial business men of that city, where he public schools of his native city; having resides during the winter months, but during decided upon the career of a lawyer as a the summer he makes his home in Ivyland, means of obtaining a livelihood, he entered

Bucks County, Pa. , where he owns a magnifi- the law office of David W. Sellers and Judge cent residence. This worthy and esteemed Mitchell of Philadelphia, where he pursued citizen was born in Philadelphia, the date of his studies for two years. For ten years our his birth being December 28, 1848, and he subject was the star center fielder of the is a son of James and Mary (Weaver) Sen- famous Athletic base-ball team of Philadel- senderfer. phia, which flourished long before the forma- James Sensenderfer was born and reared tion of the National League of the present in Hanover, Montgomery County, Pa., and day. In 1874 our subject accompanied that while a young man he left his native country team on a tour throughout Europe for three village and went to Philadelphia, believing months. Upon his return he entered the that a city afforded many more opportunities tax office of Philadelphia, where he remained for an ambitious young man to seek fortune six years ; at the expiration of that time he and fame. Having learned the trade of a was elected city commissioner of Philadel-

carpenter and builder during his early days, phia for a term of three years. In 1892, Mr.

he pursued that occupation in Philadelphia Sensenderfer moved to Bucks County, set- with marked success. He was united in tling in the village of Ivyland, where he marriage with Mary Weaver, a native of built the most beautiful summer residence in Philadelphia, and a family of ten children the county ; on the first of May of each year blessed their happy home, namely: George, our subject and family take up their summer a carpenter by trade and a resident of Phila- residence there, and in November they return :

BUCKS COUNTY 203

to the city where he owns another handsome subject entered the Quaker City Business home. College of Philadelphia, from which he was

Mr. Sensenderfer is a solid Democrat polit- graduated with honors at the age of twenty ically, and by every means in his power pro- years. He was reared upon his father's farm, motes the interests of that party, which he and in 1870 removed to Perkasie, where he believes to be for the interest of his com- began his business career as a clerk and munity and country. Our subject has served salesman, in which capacity he had served as school director of Philadelphia of the in Philadelphia and in villages of Bucks

Fourteenth Ward for three years ; was secre- County. In 1882 he purchased a half interest tary of the Democratic City Committee in the Central News of Perkasie, and in con-

eighteen years ; has represented his party in nection with Mr. Kramer has published that

city and county conventions and was a dele- paper since, placing it upon a firm financial

gate to the National Democratic Convention basis and bringing it up to the standard of which nominated Grover Cleveland for his the best weekly paper in the county. From

first term. On October 18, 1881, Mr. Sen- the very first he has taken an active part in senderfer was united in the bonds of matri- the councils of the Republican party and mony with Mary E. Wagner of Philadelphia, has been called upon to serve in various a daughter of William and Catherine (Menns) official capacities. When Perkasie became a Wagner, who reside with our subject and wife. borough in 1879, he was installed as justice Mr. and Mrs. Sensenderfer have reared two of the peace and served as such for three

children : Robert E. Pattison, and Helen. terms of five years' duration each. In 1894 he was elected to the State Senate on the Republican ticket from the Tenth District

of Pennsylvania, and served with much satis- "ON. HENRY G. MOYER, a man faction to his constituents. He was an active

well known throughout Bucks member of that body, and during the ses- County as a member of the firm sions of 1895 and 1897 was chairman of the of Kramer & Moyer, proprietors of the Cen- committee on Public Grounds, and also tral News of Perkasie, one of the leading served on the committees on Appropriations, weekly publications of this section, has at- Banks and Banking, and others of import- tained greatest prominence as a State Sena- ance. He is a man of high intellectual tor. He is a son of Henry A. and Sarah training and has a thorough understanding (Gerhart) Moyer, and was born August 28, of all subjects of current interest to the pub- in Hilltown 1848, township, Bucks County, lic, with which he is a favorite, and is held in which county he has always been a lead- in high esteem wherever known. ing resident. He was united in marriage with Emeline After completing his education in the Seiple of AUentown, and their happy union common schools of his native township, our has been blessed by the following ofispring ;

204 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Bertha M., deceased; Wallace B., deceased; butcher, and they settled in the state of

Henrietta, deceased deceased ; Ma- Ohio, and nothing more has been ever heard ; Jennie,

bel ; deceased . Henry C. of them. R. Emily, ; and

Socially, he is a member of the MacCalla Anton Hofmeier obtained a fine education

Lodge, No. 596, F. & A. M, of which he is in the common schools of his native town,

past master ; he is also connected with the and spent most ^of his early days working

Order of United American Mechanics ; I. O. with his father, learning the trade of a stone-

O. F. ; and the Knights of Pythias. mason, which he has followed, more or less,

all his active life. In 1 866 he left his native country and came across the Atlantic to the United States, landing in the city of New

(sTrNTcNTON HOFMEIER is without a York August loth ; three weeks later he went doubt the largest contractor and to Philadelphia, where he had many friends, builder in the southeastern portion who were also natives of the village where he of the county, and has erected many fine was born and reared. He had but ^5.00 in buildings in the neighboring villages and in his pocket, but was rich in determination

his adopted borough, Andalusia. He is one after a ten days' visit with friends, he began of its foremost and enterprising citizens, and working in a terra cotta works at $2.00 per

has contributed largely toward its advance- day and remained at that employment three ment. He is a son of Anton and Katherine weeks. He then took up his trade as a stone- (Shazle) Hofmeier, and was born in Baden, mason, which he followed about a month,

Germany, January 17, 1840. when he became a resident of Andalu-

Our subject's father always resided in his sia, where he has since resided. Being native country, where he followed the trade a skillful mechanic he was never seek-

of a stonemason and surveyor ; he was prom- ing employment, and after continuing his inently known in his community and was chosen occupation four years, he engaged building inspector a number of years. He in contracting on his own account, which died about 1874, and his wife died in 1870. has kept him busy to the present time. At He was a member of the Catholic Church, first he gave employment to but one other being the only one of the family to attend man, but as the work gradually increased, he that church. added more men, until he had as high as As a result of his marriage with Katherine forty-one. In Andalusia he erected St. Shazle, the following children were born: Elizabeth's Convent and many other build- Gabriel; William; Anton, our subject; ings ; he also built the Methodist Church at Joseph; Cecelia; and Mary. Theresia and Bristol; and the Presbyterian Church and Amelia were the fruits of his second union St. Francis' Industrial School at Eddington, with a Miss Binder. Cecelia was the first to Pa. Our subject owns five houses in Anda- immigrate to this country ; she married a lusia, which he rents. Mr. Hofmeier has —;

BUCKS COUNTY 205

him. many warm friends in his vicinity, is highly found two fiery eyes glaring at He his respected and esteemed, and is performing quickly retreated and aroused some of

all the obligations of a dutiful citizen. neighbors, who could scarcely realize the

Mr. Hofmeier was wedded to Theresia truth of his statements ; but upon becoming Haaf, a native of Baden, Germany, and a convinced, they proceeded with guns to cap- daughter of Moritz and Mary A. (Wagner) ture the beast, and succeeded in killing a Haaf, and granddaughter of Nicholas Haaf. Royal Bengal tiger that weighed 205 pounds She was a member of a family of six children, and was three feet high and seven feet and

: in length. Mr. Hall, of the Red namely Katherine ; John ; Joseph, deceased nine inches Valentine was killed in the Franco-German Ivion Hotel had the animal stuffed, and it is

War ; Barbara ; and Francisca. Mr. and now in a large glass case in his hotel. That

Mrs. Hofmeier are the parents of two sons Mr. Hofmeier escaped at all was due to the

Albert F. and Anton I,., both of whom are guiding hand of Providence, and in the assisting their father. Albert F. Hofmeier future, he has decided, should he be called was united in marriage with Anna Diehl, a upon to investigate any mysterious sounds of

daughter of John and Cecelia Diehl of Phila- the night, he will go equipped with a- shot- delphia, and they are the parents of two gun and accompanied by several of his children—Rita T. and Anna C. All the neighbors.

members of the family are regular attendants Mr. Hofmeier is a large, robust and power- of the Catholic Church. In 1894 Mr. and ful man, enjoying the best of health. A few

Mrs. Hofmeier L,. and son, Anton , surprised months ago, while working at his trade, he their relatives and many friends in Baden, had the misfortune to meet with an accident Germany, by making them a visit. by being hit with a chip in the eye, causing Our subject had an exciting adventure in the loss of that member. October, 1879, with a tiger that had escaped from Forepaugh's show. One night he heard a most pitiful crying, which he thought was

the voice of a human being, and after listen- •AMES E. MAGII.I. is one of that in- ing a while he awakened his wife, and they dustrious class of Bucks County, Pa., located the noise in the swamp near the rail- who are engaged in the prosecution road crossing. Against the will of his wife of the independent calling, farming, and is he went out in the darkness to assist what he located on a fine farm in Bristol township, thought was a woman in distress, and after where he is also successfully engaged in crossing the open fields a short distance, he dairying, keeping a herd of 25 good milch saw through the darkness what he took to be cows. The family, of which this gentleman a cow thinking ; the cow had been wounded is a worthy representative, is of sturdy Scotch- in some way, he approached the dark-looking Irish extraction, and has been connected with object -until within a few steps, when he the growth and prosperity of Bucks County ,;

2o6 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

since the year 1727. This prominent and in- Henry Magill, the father of our subject, fluential citizen was born in Solebury town- was born on his father's farm in Solebury ship, this county, April 24, 1844, and is a township, October 19, 1818, and devoted his son of Henry and Ruth E. (Breece) Magill, entire life to agricultural pursuits, working grandson of John and Anna (Ely) Magill, in his native township. For the past six and great-grandson of John and Amy (Whit- years he has been living in retirement and son) Magill. resides with his son, James E., the subject of The founder of this industrious and pros- this sketch. Politically, he was formerly a perous family in America was William Ma- Whig, but when that party was abandoned, gill, who with his brother Alexander emi- he became identified with the Republican grated from his native place in Ireland in organization ; he served as supervisor of Sole-

1727. Alexander died in Troy, N. Y., and bury township several years, while a resident William came to Bucks County, Pa., and of that township. He was united in marriage settled in Falls township, where he pursued with Ruth E. Breece, a native of Solebury his trade as a tailor. He was joined in mar- township, and a daughter of Henry Breece, riage with Sarah Simcock, by whom he and a family of ten children was born to reared a family of six children, one of whom them, namely; James E., our subject; Han- was John, the great-grandfather of our sub- nah, the wife of James Beatty; Angeline, the ject. John Magill was born in Falls township, wife of Samuel Overholt ; Emma, wedded to and his vocation was farming; he married Enos Overholt; Susan was joined in marriage Amy Whitson, and six children resulted from with Samuel Mathews; Katherine W. was this union, namely : Jacob, Jane, Rachael, married to John Cryer; Ruth A. is the wife

William, David, and John. John Magill, Jr. of John Whitlock ; Harriet married William was united in the bonds of wedlock with Crewson ; William Henry ; and Jonathan B. Anna Ely, a daughter of Joseph and Mary The mother of our subject entered the world (Whitson) Ely, and they became the parents of rest in 1869, and Mr. Magill formed a of six children, namely : Jane, the wife of Jo- second matrimonial alliance with Mrs. Han-

; seph Wiley ; Joseph E. Mrs. James H. Ely nah C. Scarboure, who died in May, 1898. William; Henry, the father of our subject; James E. Magill spent his boyhood days and Mary, who married Isaac Ely. John in his native township, where he attended Magill was born and reared in Solebury the district schools and at the same time as- township, and he carried on general farming sisted his father in the cultivation of the

the most of his active days; he spent his lat- homestead ; he remained under the parental ter days in retirement. Religiously, he and roof until i86r, when in response to Presi- his family were prominent members of the dent Lincoln's call for soldiers to aid in put- Society of Friends. He died in 1865 at the ting down the Rebellion, he set aside all age of eighty-seven years; his wife died about plans for the future and enlisted for nine 1850. months in Co. C, 128th Reg., Pa. Vol.

REV. WJLLIAM K. PRESTON. BUCKS COUNTY 209

Inf., during which term he participated in and Frank B., who died in March, 1898, aged

the battles of South Mountain, Antietam, twenty-five years. Mrs. Magill is of Welsh

and Chancellorsville. At the expiration of origin ; religiously, she is a member of the his first term of enlistment, he re-enlisted in Society of Friends. Co. G, I32d Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf, and served until 1864. In that year he returned home and began working on his father's farm; in

1 866 our subject took possession of a farm in iEV. WILLIAM K. PRESTON, whose Bristol township and began farming on his portrait we take pleasure in present- own account. A few years later he began ing on the opposite page, has working for Caleb N. Taylor and remained faithfully performed his duties as pastor of with him until 1889, when he moved to the the Presbyterian Church of Neshaminy, War- farm of Benjamin J. Taylor, where he has wick township, Bucks County, for the past

remained up to the present time. Besides thirteen years. He is a man of scholarly being successfully engaged in farming, he is attainments and noble impulses, and occupies also engaged in dairying, and keeps a herd a high place in the affections of the citizens of choice milch cows. Mr. Magill is highly of that place. He is a son of John T. and respected by his fellow-citizens ; is well Sarah A. (Kent) Preston, and was born in

known throughout the ; county and is re- Washington County, 111., October 27, 1852. garded as one of the enterprising and public- Rev. Mr. Preston is a grandson of John spirited citizens of Bristol township. Preston, who was born September 23, 1776, Mr. Magill is an enthusiastic supporter of and a great-grandson of John Preston, who the Republican party, and from 1867 to 1877 was born January 22, 1750. The last named served as supervisor of East Bristol township; had one brother, William. There were three as school director one term; in 1885 he was brothers in Virginia who were cousins to elected justice of the peace and is now serving John and William Preston just named, and his third term in that office ; and has been this makes our subject a relative of the Vir- delegated to county, assembly, judicial, and ginia Prestons. Such noted statesmen as state conventions. Fraternally, our subject Patrick Henry, William C. Preston, John C. is a member of the Bristol I/odge, No. 25, Breckenridge, and William C. P. Brecken- F. & A. M. For the past few years he has ridge descended from the Virginia branch of made auctioneering a part of his business. the family.

Mr. Magill was united in matrimonial bonds John T. Preston, the father of our subject, with Sally Jones, a native of Falls township, was born in the state of Virginia, and when and a daughter of John and Sarah Jones. a young man moved to Indiana, whence he Mr. and Mrs. Magill are the proud parents of later removed to Louisiana and followed the three children, namely: Jesse J., a resident of occupation of a planter for some time. He Philadelphia; John H., also in Philadelphia; then moved to Natchez, Miss. , where he con- II* :

210 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

ducted a merchandise store for a few years, Darrah, Wilson B. McKinstry, Stacy B. and in 1852 moved to Illinois, locating in Beans, G. W. Rubinskem, Ezra B. Carrell, Washington County, where he was engaged Sr., H. E. McNair, and Cephas Ross; trus- in agricultural pursuits until his death, which tees,—J. M. Darrah, R. T. Engart, William occurred May 3, 1861. He formed a matri- M. Jamison, Theodore Flack, T. B. Patterson, monial alliance with Sarah A. Kent, a native H. M. McKinstry, Jesse McKinstry, Joseph of New Hampshire, and they became' the Carrell, and Stacy B. Beans. The efficient happy parents of six children : Ivouis C. , who superintendent of the Sunday School is Rev. resides at Richview, 111. ; Zenas, deceased; D. K. Turner. Rev. Mr. Preston and his William K., the subject of this biographical family reside in the handsome parsonage,

record ; Martha, the wife of John Mathews, which is located near the church. who resides in Andover, Kan.; John A., a In 1884 our subject formed a marital union merchant and general agent at Jacksonville, with Mary G. Ferguson, a native of Prince-

Fla. ; and Thomas, who died in infancy. Mrs. ton, N. J., and a daughter of William G. Preston is now spending her declining years Ferguson, by whom he has two children in Richview, 111., where she has resided for Mabel G., and William Leroy. Socially, he many years and has a host of friends. is a member of the Hatboro I/odge, F. & A. Rev. William K. Preston attended the M. ; Doylestown Chapter, R. A. M. ; War- common schools of his native place, after rington I/odge, No. 447, I. O. O. F.; and which he took a course in the Washington Fortune lyodge, No. 118, K. of P., of Hat-

Seminary at Richview, 111., and also at boro, Pa.

McKendree College at Lebanon, 111. I^ater The land on which Memorial Hall in he entered Wabash College at Crawfordsville, Philadelphia now stands was purchased by 111., from which he was graduated in 1880. our subject's great- great-great-grandfather,

He was then prepared for the ministry by a Richard Vickris, on September 22, 1683. course in Princeton Seminary at Princeton, The warrant was dated May 13, 1700. His

N. J., from which he was graduated in 1884, granddaughter, Rebecca Vickris, wife of and accepted his first charge at Port Penn, John Preston, lies buried in the Fourth and Del., where he remained for one year. He Arch street Friends' Burying Ground, Phila- then moved to Hartsville and assumed the delphia. Her grandfather, Richard Vickris, duties of pastor of the Presbyterian Church lived near Bristol, England, and suffered of Neshaminy, where he has since continued persecution because he was a Friend. She with much satisfaction to the congregation, was what we would call a preacher among and is a universal favorite. The membership the Friends. Rev. Mr. Preston's grandfather, has increased largely under his efficient John Preston, was born in Bucks County, guidance, and the enrollment now numbers and lived there till he was seven years of age, 200 persons. The following are the officials whence he removed to Virginia with his of the church : members of session,—R. H. parents, John and Rebecca Preston. John ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 211

Preston ' died in Virginia, June 23, 1820. Pa., and the home of this union was blessed After this his wife, Rebecca, returned to by the birth of seven children, namely:

Philadelphia, where she died September 12, Mary, deceased ; Christian A., deceased ; our

1834. subject was next in order ; Emma, deceased Edwin, a resident of Quakertown; Kate,

deceased ; and William, a prominent citizen "ENRY B. SCHEID. Among the en- of Souderton, Pa. Mr. Scheid entered the

terprising industrial establishments world of rest, aged fifty-eight years ; his wife

of Bucks County is the boot and survives him and is past her seventy-fifth shoe manufacturing plant located at 229-231 year in life, and is enjoying remarkably Franklin street, Quakertown, of which the good health for one of her years. Our sub- gentleman whose name appears at the head ject's father was a member of the Lutheran of this notice is the proprietor and owner. Church. This valuable and esteemed citizen, was born Henry B. Scheid was educated in the pub- at Pennsburg, Montgomery County, Pa., lic schools of his native township, and at the years went to Trumbauers- August 31, 1846, and is a son of Reuben and age of seventeen Hester (Blank) Scheid. ville, this county, and served an apprentice- Our subject's grandfather, Jacob Scheid, ship to the shoemaker's trade and followed as a journeyman until the first of the family to come to this coun- that occupation 1879, became a partner in the firm of A. try, was a native of Wittenberg, Germany when he upon coming to America he located near B. Walp & Co., boot and shoe manufacturers Four years later, after hav- the village of Sumneytown, Montgomery of Quakertown. thoroughly acquainted with that County, and resided there, following the vo- ing become business, he embarked in the manu- cation of a farmer the rest of his life. He line of of boots and shoes on his own ac- lived to the advanced age of ninety-seven facture he sold his interest in the above firm years, and was well known throughout the count; and started a shop at the corner of East county for his many sterling qualities. He and Hellertown avenue, giving em- was the progenitor of a family of six chil- Broad ployment to six hands. July 14, 1891, our dren, namely: William; Elias ; Thomas; subject erected a handsome three-story stone Ephraim ; Hannah ; and Reuben. by feet, located at 229-231 Reuben Scheid, our subject's father, was building, 33 45 Franklin street, into which he moved his born in Montgomery County, Pa., and in shop; the building is heated throughout by early manhood learned the trade of a black- steam, has steam power, and the latest and smith, but. later took up coopering; in 1870 most improved machinery. He employs he became a resident of Quakertown and fol- twenty skilled workmen the year lowed carpentering until his death. His about around, and they have a reputation of turn- wife was Hester Blank, a daughter of William ing out nothing but first-class work. Mr. Blank, a resident of Montgomery County, ; :

BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Scheid is widely known throughout the was born in Gwynned, Montgomery County,

county and is held in high esteem by his Pa. , where he resided all his life, following employees and fellow-citizens. the vocation of a farmer and miller. He Mr. Scheid was wedded to Elizabeth Fluck, passed from this life at an advanced age. a daughter of John Fluck, a prominent citi- His second son, Charles, the father of our zen of Richland township, Bucks County, subject, was born on the homestead Decem-

Pa. Our subject, in politics, is a Democrat ber 14, 1815, and died December 30, 1871. and is now serving his third term in the He received his primary education in the

village council ; socially, he is a member common school and in the Westchester of the Quakertown Lodge, No. 512, F. & Academy he then the study ; began of medi- A. M.; I. O. O. F.; Knights of Malta; Se- cine under Dr. Hiram Corson, his brother-

cona Tribe, I. O. R. M. ; and Brotherhood of in-law, a prominent physician of Plymouth, the Union. He and his wife are members of Pa. Later he took a course of lectures in the Lutheran Church. the University of Pennsylvania and was

graduated in 1838 ; after practicing medicine

at Penllyn, Pa. , four years, he moved to New Hope, this county, where he continued his R. RICHARD C. FOULKF, who is profession until his death. He was wedded a descendant of one of the pioneer to Harriet Corson, a daughter of Dr. Richard B families of the state of Pennsyl- D. Corson, the nuptials occurring in 1843. vania, is one of the oldest and most eminent Three sons blessed this union, namely physicians of Bucks County, and is a prom- Richard C, whose name heads this brief inent and well-to-do citizen of the borough notice ; Edward ; and Thomas, deceased. of New Hope. He was born there Novem- Our subject's father was a member of the ber 2, 1843, and is a son of Charles and Har- Society of Friends politically, he ; was a riet (Corson) Foulke, and grandson of Edward Republican.

Foulke. Dr. Richard C. Foulke, the oldest of his Our subject is a direct descendant of parents' children, received his intellectual Edward Foulke, who in 1698, accompanied training in the public schools of New Hope by his wife and children, sailed from Liver- and at Westchester Academy. He was em- pool, England, for the American shores ployed in the civil service department of the after a voyage of eleven weeks they landed government at Washington, D. C, and left in the city of Philadelphia. Edward Foulke that department in 1863, being injured by an was the father of Thomas, who was the father explosion in the cartridge factory. In 1866 of William and grandfather of Amos ; the our subject commenced the study of medi- last named gentleman was the father of cine under his father, and, enrolling himself Edward, the grandfather of our subject. as a student at the University of Pennsyl- Edward Foulke, our subject's grandfather. vania, was graduated with the class of 1869. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 213

He immediately returned to his native town- and as straight as an arrow, he is a striking ship, where he soon built up a large and figure and his appearance leads one to believe lucrative practice, which extends throughout him many years younger than the records

much of the county. Dr. Foulke is one of indicate. the enterprising citizens of New Hope and Mr. Harrison is a son of John and Lydia has won the confidence and respect of the (L,eib) Harrison, and was born in Philadel-

entire community. phia, Pa., on April i, 1805. His grandfather, The Doctor was united in marriage, in Thomas Harrison, was born in England, and 1872, with Louisa W. Vansant and their was a country gentleman, owning a valuable home has been blessed by the birth of three estate in the northern part of England. He

children, named as follows : Charles, a prom- had two sons : John, the father of our subject

inent real estate man of Philadelphia ; Clara- and Robert, who died on the voyage to this

bel ; and Rebecca C. , deceased. Dr. Foulke country.

is a member of the Bucks County Medical John Harrison was born in Philadelphia, Association American Medical Association and there studied for the profession of a ; ;

and has been a member of the I. O. O. F. chemist under the tutelage of Dr. Priestly, for the past twenty-nine years, and has been after which he took an advanced course of

through all the chairs and has been dele- study in chemistry in London, Eng. He gated to the grand lodge. Politically, Dr. then returned to Philadelphia and engaged

Foulke is a Republican, and has served four in the manufacture of chemicals with great

terms as burgess and is now president of the success. His enterprise prospered, and he con- borough council. He has also served three tinued in it for many years, finally transfer- years as secretary of the school board. ring the business to his sons. He was united in marriage to Lydia Leib, a sister of Dr. Michael Leib, who won distinction in his day as a Member of Congress. This union was HOMAS HARRISON, who through- blessed by the birth of five children, namely:

; George, became a out his entire active business life was Thomas ; Michael L. who a prominent and successful manufacturing member of the firm of Harrison, Havemeyer chemist of Philadelphia, has been living in & Co., which was later merged into the

happy retirement at his beautiful home, Win- Franklin Sugar Refining Company ; Caroline, Captain Leib and Adelaide dermere, at Torresdale, Bensalem township, who married ; L. Bucks Coimty, since 1890. He is well known Mr. Harrison died in his fifty-seventh year. transferred to the throughout the county, is everywhere re- The business which was jointly spected, and numbers his friends by the score. three brothers was conducted by them withdrew from the firm to or- He is past ninety-three years of age, and is until George Michael wonderfully preserved. Tall, of massive form, ganize a sugar refining company. together for many his weight being something over 200 pounds, and Thomas continued 214 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

years, but finally Michael retired and lived Harrison had a very bad fall in October, 1897, in Philadelphia until his death some years which injured her spine to such an extent ago. Our subject continued in the business that she has been obliged to keep her bed

until 1 890, for many years living at his present since. Our subject is now enjoying the best home during the summer months, spending of health. the winters in Philadelphia. He was very successful, and during that time amassed considerable wealth through his strict business R. JOSEPH REED OSMAN, an methods and good management. He is of a eminent physician and surgeon of generous and sympathetic nature, and always M Bucks County, Pa. , has been prac- treated his employees and those with whom ticing in the town of Bristol and vicinity he had dealings with the greatest kindness. since 1 884, and ranks among the foremost of About 1864 he purchased Windermere of the professional men of his community. He Jonathan Thomas, the original owner being was born in Philadelphia, October 25, 1848, Mr. Coates, who is familiar throughout this and is a son of James Hugh and Harriet De country as the manufacturer of spool cotton. Hart (Ringler) Osman, and grandson of The pleasant, long, old-fashioned house stands Leonard Osman. in an ample, well-wooded lawn on the river lyconard Osman was born in York, Pa., bank, where a good view may be obtained and was a ship builder by trade, and followed of the ever beautiful Delaware River. Mr. that occupation in Philadelphia the most of Harrison is exceedingly fond of fine "horses, his life. He was a veteran of the Mexican and is a good judge of horse blood, having War, entering as lieutenant and going out of owned some very fast horses, among them the service at the close of the war with the being : Harry Bluff; Sir Peter, who made an commission of captain. After the war was excellent record in competition on the race over he went to Philadelphia, where he pur- track, and Pale Face. In recent years he has sued his former occupation until death claimed shown a preference for roadsters. him, which was in 1 850. James Hugh Osman In 1 83 1 he was united in marriage with was born in York, Pa., and early in life Sarah Crosby, who was born in Delaware became a resident of Philadelphia, where he County in 1815, and is a daughter of Pierce engaged in the hardware business all his life. Crosby, who was a farmer and miller by oc- Mr. Osman was very successful in his busi- cupation and the president of the Delaware ness undertakings, and succeeded in accumu- County Bank. They are the parents of the lating a small fortune by the time of his following children: Millicent, the wife of death. He passed from this life at his home William H. Tevis ; George I^. ; Edward G. in ; Philadelphia in 1 881, at the age of fifty- Anna, the wife of Edward Farquhar ; Virgi- five years. He was united in marriage with nia, the wife of James N. Whelen ; and Eliza- Harriet De Hart Ringler; her father, Israel beth, the wife of Charles Neilson. Mrs. Ringler, was a prominent merchant of Read- — :

BUCKS COUNTY 215

ing, Pa. Four children blessed this union, and they have reared two sons, namely " one son and three daughters. Willis A. , a signal boy on the U. S. S. Massa-

Dr. Joseph Reed Osman received his pri- chusetts" ; and Frederick De Hart, who is mary education in the common schools of his attending school in Bristol. Mrs. Osman died. native city, and also took lessons of a private March 22, 1893. The Doctor formed a second teacher ; he then entered the Philadelphia matrimonial alliance with Elizabeth L,a Rue High School, and was graduated with the of Bristol, and they were united in marriage

class of 1868. Having decided upon the February 19, 1895. The Doctor is a member career of a physician as a means of obtaining of the American Medical Association; presi- a livelihood, he entered the office of Dr. John dent of the Twenty-third Medical Associa- six years Wurtz of Philadelphia, where he prepared tion of Philadelphia ; has served as

himself for college ; later he entered the a school director of Bristol ; and is a member

Hahnemann Medical College of that city, and of the General H. Clay Beatty Post, No. J^,

was graduated from that institution in 1 884. G. A. R., of Bristol. Politically Dr. Osman Dr. Osman has been a resident of Bristol is a conscientious Republican, and since since that year, and has followed his chosen attaining his majority has faithfully cast his profession in that town since his graduation, vote with that party. The Doctor is an intel- having established a large and lucrative prac- ligent man, and takes a lively interest in respects tice. Dr. Osman has taken a special course local and general matters, and in all in anatomy and surgery in the Hahnemann is a representative citizen of an intelligent Medical College, and in 1883-84 took a community. The Doctor is a prominent special course in surgery in the Pennsylvania vocalist, and is treasurer of the Bristol Choral Hospital at Philadelphia. Since the Doctor Society. located at Bristol he has prospered, and has become a successful physician and a popular

member of the community. October 13, nrx ANIEL G. GROSS is a successful Danboro, 1 861, our subject enlisted in the Union Army I =H merchant and citizen of township, having lo- as a drummer boy ; on September 4 of the r-^^^ Plumstead same year he enlisted in the Gosline Zouaves cated there in 1895. He is a son of John L. of the 9Sth Regt., Pa. Vol. Inf. He partici- and Esther (Gotwals) Gross, and was born pated in thirty-three battles, all with the near the village of Gardenville, this county, Army of the Potomac. After three years and December 26, 1851. two months of active service our subject The great-grandfather of our subject was returned home and entered school. Dr. Osman Jacob Gross, who was born on the river was wounded by a shell at the battle of the Rhine, Germany; when he immigrated to Wilderness. America, he first located in Skippack, Mont- Dr. Osman was wedded to Sarah Elizabeth gomery County, Pa., but later in Bedminster Kulp of Philadelphia on February 28, 1876, township, Bucks County. There he owned ;

2l6 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

60 acres of land, which is now the property ville, this county, and erected a store house of David Landis, and, in addition to carrying and conducted a merchandise store for thirteen on general farming, also followed the vocation years. After farming some ten years he again of a shoemaker and weaver. He was a engaged in the mercantile business at Foun- bishop of the Mennonite Church. His wife tainville, and successfully carried on that was Mary Grail, a native of the state of Mary- business until 1892, when he retired from

land, by whom he reared the following chil- active labors. He is a member and elder of

dren : Christian, a farmer by vocation John, the Mennonite Church politically, he is ; ; a who farmed on the homestead Jacob moved solid Republican. He was joined in ; marriage

to Canada, and was a farmer and minister of with Esther Gotwals, a daughter of the late the Mennonite Church ; Mary was twice mar- Adam Gotwals, a prominent farmer of Gar- ried; her first husband was Abraham Nash, denville. Two sons and two daughters and upon his death she moved to Canada, blessed the home of Mr. and Mrs. Gross,

where she to ; was wedded Jacob Fry and namely : Daniel G., our subject ; Mary Ann, Daniel. the wife of Henry S. Johnson, a farmer of John Gross, the grandfather of our subject, Buckingham township, this county John A., ; resided near Fountainville, this county, where a prominent merchant of Fountainville ; and he owned a large tract of land, and farming Emma, the wife of John F. Mood, a farmer was his sole occupation. He died aged of Plumstead township. Our subject's mother seventy- seven years. He was a member of died December 30, 1893, when aged over the Mennonite Church. Our subject's grand- sixty-two years.

father was twice married his first ; wife was a Daniel G. Gross was reared on his father's Miss lycatherman, by whom he had five chil- farm, and his younger days were spent dren, namely : Jacob, deceased; John I^., the attending the district school of the neighbor- father of our subject Annie Joseph ; ; and ; hood; he then taught school, some nine terms Mary, deceased. His second marriage was in all, after which he turned his attention with Mrs. Christina Overholtzer, and three toward agricultural pursuits. After fourteen children were born to this union, as follows : years of farm life, he and his brother engaged William, who resides on the homestead in the mercantile business at Fountainville, Samuel, deceased, was a bishop of the Men- under the firm name of Gross Brothers ; four nonite Church ; and Sarah. years later, in the spring of 1895, our subject I/. Gross ran John a commission wagon to located in Danboro, and embarked in the Philadelphia during the early part of his life, same business on his own account, and has, and then in partnership with his brother-in- by his hustling ability and honest dealing, law, Henry Rosenberger, he embarked in the established a large patronage. He also oper- mercantile business at Dublin, Bedminster ates a commission wagon in partnership with township, this county; four years later he George L,. Fretz, and they make trips to purchased a small tract of land at Fountain- Philadelphia once a week.

GEORGE A. JENKS. :

BUCKS COUNTY 219

December 5, 1877, Mr. Gross was wedded also built a fulling mill on Core Creek prior to Mary H. Meyers, a daughter of John S. to 1742, and operated it with good success

Meyers, a well-to-do farmer of Plumstead the remainder of his life. In 1723 he be- township. Five children were born to our came a member of the Society of Friends

subject and wife : Clara, deceased ; Martha, a and was ever after a faithful worker in that graduate of Schissler's Business College of body. He married Mercy Wildman in 173 1, Bucks County; Charles W.; John Howard; and they reared the following children

and Daniel Arthur. Politically, Mr. Gross John ; Thomas Joseph ; Mary ; Elizabeth ; ; is a stanch Republican ; religiously, he is a and Ann. Mr. Jenks, after withstanding the member of the Presbyterian Church, and is vicissitudes of fortune for ninety-eight long assistant superintendent of the Sabbath School years, passed to his final rest on May 4, 1 797. at Danboro, Pa. Thomas Jenks, the grandfather of our sub-

ject, fell heir to the old homestead, and, besides carrying on farming, operated the EORGE A. JENKS, whom we repre- fulling mill for many years. However, he sent with a portrait on the opposite won the greatest prominence in the field of page, is a gentleman who has won consider- politics, in which he was very active. In able distinction as an attorney-at-law of New- 1790 he was a member of the Constitutional town, and possesses high intellectual attain- Convention, and the maternal grandfather. ments. He is a son of Dr. Phineas and Governor Snyder, was also a member of the Amelia (Snyder) Jenks, and was born in convention at that time. At the time of his i797, Thomas was a Newtown October 9, 1829. death, May 4, Jenks State Senate. His union with He is of Welsh ancestry and is descended member of the from Thomas and Susan Jenks, who were Miss • Richardson resulted in the following

children : Thomas Joseph ; Phineas, M.D. both born in Wales. After the death of ; ;

Thomas Jenks in that country, Mrs. Susan Rebecca (Fell) ; Mercy (Carlisle) ; and Ann. the father of our subject, Jenks, who was possessed of ample means, Dr. Phineas Jenks, with her son Thomas immigrated to Amer- came in for the portion of the original tract acres which is now owned by Mrs. ica, where she formed a second alliance in of 600 Having chosen the medi- 1708 or 1709 with Benjamin Wiggins of Zepheniah Force. as his field of labor, he began Buckingham, Pa. Thomas Jenks, Jr., the cal profession great-grandfather of our subject, was born study under Dr. Benjamin Rush, the famed of Philadelphia, and was gradu- in Wales in 1699, and after attaining his physician University of Pennsylvania. majority located in Middletown township, ated from the thereafter he began practice in Bucks County, Pa., where he purchased 600 Immediately and rapidly established an endur- acres of choice land. He erected the house Newtown, reputation as a skilled physician and which is standing to-day, known as Jenks' ing in practice for forty- Hall and owned by William Barnsley. He surgeon, continuing 220 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

seven years. He, too, was an active politi- George A. Jenks, after completing the re- cian and served ofBcially in many capacities quired course in the Newtown Academy, ; he was a member of the State lyCgislature obtained a high classical education in the

for three years, and in 1836 was a member of University of Pennsylvania, from which in-

the Constitutional Convention. He was the stitution he was graduated July 4, 1850. first president of the Bucks County Medical Having determined to enter the legal profes- Society, and held that office until his demise. sion, he began the study of law under the He was one of the founders of St. Luke's preceptorship of James C. Van Dyke, who Episcopal Church at Newtown, of which he was then United States District Attorney of was rector's warden. As an extemporaneous Philadelphia. Having taken a full course of speaker. Dr. Jenks was without a peer in his study in the Law Department of the Univer- section of the county, and was often called sity of Pennsylvania, the degrees of Master upon for stump speeches in the different of Arts and Bachelor of Laws were conferred

bodies with which he was connected. So- upon him July 3, 1853. April 16, of the cially, he was a member of Bristol Lodge, same year, he was admitted to practice in the No. 25, F. & A. M. He built and resided in District Court of Common Pleas of Philadel-

a handsome home in Newtown, the one in phia, and on January 13, 1854, was admitted which Cyrus Hillborn now lives. While to practice in the Supreme Court. He prac- on official duty in Harrisburg, Pa., he met ticed in that city with good success until and was married to Amelia Snyder, the old- February, 1859, having been admitted to the est child and only daughter of Governor Circuit and District Courts October 8, 1855. Simon Snyder, and this happy union was He then moved to Newtown, Bucks County, blessed by the birth of six children, as fol- and has been engaged in practice there from

lows : Elizabeth Mary, the wife of Rev. J. I. that time to this. As an advocate his know-

Elsegood ; William Wallace, whose death ledge is various and extensive, his judgment occurred in 1856; Frederick A., who died in sound, and his counsel recognized as of a infancy George A., the subject ; of this bio- high order. By his brethren of the bar his graphical record, and Henry L,., who died at merits as a sincere friend and as an able the age of nine months, were twins, and practitioner are highly appreciated, and he bore such a striking resemblance to each performs the various duties of lawyer and other it that was necessary to tie a ribbon citizen with recognized promptness and ac- about the of arm one to determine one from knowledged ability. His strict integrity has the other ; and P. Frederick, who lost his won for him the confidence of all who have life while in the service of the Union during come to know him or to transact business the Civil War. Dr. died Jenks August 6, with him, and his uniform courtesy to all of at the age of 1851, seventy-two years, and the members of the bar is a prominent char- his beloved wife died at the age of sixty- acteristic of his everyday life for which he is nine years, August 6, 1859. highly regarded by them. Although not a ;

BUCKS COUNTY 221

politician nor an aspirant to office, he be- birth being March 12, 1848. His parents are lieves in performing his duty when called George and Kate (Schwartz) Burkhardt. upon, and as a result has been chief burgess George Burkhardt was also a native of for seven years, justice of the peace for thirty- Wertenberg, Germany, and was a day la- seven years, and school director for nineteen borer; he died in 1857. His wife, Kate years. Schwartz, was a native of Wertenberg, Ger-

Mr. Jenks, June 15, i860, formed a marital many, and they became the parents of a union with Ella Davis, a daughter of Jesse family of six children, who were named as and Susan B. Davis, and they became the follows: Henry died, aged tweiity-eight years;

: P., died Amelia Christina ; Anthony, our subject parents of two children Sylvia who ;

in infancy ; and Elizabeth M., who died at Mary ; and Kate. The mother of our sub-

the age of five years. Religiously, they are ject passed from earth in 1 868. members of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, of Anthony Burkhardt was educated in the which Mr. Jenks has been a member of the common schools, and at the age of seventeen

vestry for thirty years. Socially, he is a years he went to work in a brewery, where member of Newtown lyodge. No. 427, F. & he continued to remain some three years.

1 A. M ., of which he was the first master ; and In September, 867, he came to the United of the Newtown Chapter, No. 229, of which States, and first located in Philadelphia,

he was the first high priest. He was dis- where he worked about six months. He

trict deputy grand master for five years, and then went to Souderton, Pa., and followed

then resigned the office. farming four years, after which he became a resident of L,ine Lexington, where he continued his work as an agriculturist two years. After spending one year at different places, tNTHONY BURKHARDT. This he drove a tailor's wagon two years for Jacob highly esteemed citizen of Blooming Dietrich ; having saved a large portion of his ^_^ Glen, Pa., may be justly classed salary, in the spring of 1877, he came to among the self-made men of Bucks County, Blooming Glen, this county, where he built who started out in life poor in pocket, but his present factory, and has since been en- rich in determination. Our subject is the gaged in the manufacture of all kinds of owner and proprietor of one of the prominent clothing. He gives steady employment to 45 and successful manufacturing industries of men, and most of the clothing manufactured Bucks County; he located in the above at his factory is sent to large Philadelphia named village in 1877, and has up to the firms. Mr. Burkhardt has erected a handsome

present time been engaged in the manu- home near his factory ; he also owns a well- facture of all kinds of clothing. Mr. Burk- improved farm of 32 acres near the village.

hardt is a native of Germany, his birth-place He is one of the progressive business men of being at Wertenberg, and the date of his his section, and takes an active interest in —

222 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIKS

all movements which tend to benefit his fel- quaintances in Hilltown township, where he low-townsmen. still resides. He was twice united in hymeneal

In 1877, Mr. Burkhardt was wedded to bonds, his first union being with Anna Bewig- Mary Newbold, of Hatfield, Pa., a daughter house, by whom he had the following chil-

of : married Anna Smith, John and L,ena Newbold ; her father was dren Abraham, who a farmer all his life. Nine children were the is an engineer in a mill at Souderton, Pa.;

fruits of this happy union, as follows : Laura Isaac, a farmer of Hilltown township, mar-

died, aged seven months ; Horace, born April ried Amanda Stover ; Alvin, who died at the

23, 1879, and has always been in business age of four years; Aaron B., the subject of

with his father ; Charles is attending school this personal history; Amanda, the wife of at West Chester, Pa. ; Elida died, aged seven Edward Smith, a farmer and carpenter of

months ; Alice, Edward, Oscar, and Willis Silverdale, Pa. ; and William, a miller, of

are at home. Socially, Mr. Burkhardt is a Lansdale, Pa. His second marriage was with

member of the Masonic I/odge at Sellers- a sister of his first wife, Rebecca Bewighouse,

ville. Pa. ; and the Odd Fellows' Lodge at to whom were born two children, Anna; and Perkasie, Pa. In politics our subject favors Allen. Democracy, but holds himself ready to vote Aaron B. Detwiler attended the common for whom he considers the best man, regard- schools and was reared upon his father's farm. less of party ties. He was employed by his father until he was twenty-three years of age, when he rented the latter's saw and grist mill, which he operated until 1888, when he bought a gristmill in tARON B. DETWILER, the popular Doylestown, Bucks County, and conducted proprietor of the Blooming Glen it with excellent results until March 9, 1 896. ^^ Hotel of Blooming Glen, Hilltown Upon that date he purchased the Blooming township, Bucks County, is one of the most Glen Hotel for the sum of |8,ooo, and has progressive and highly respected citizens of since spent an additional $4,000 in improve-

that community. He is a son of Samuel and ment, making it one of the best hotels in the

Anna (Bewighouse) Detwiler, and was born county. It is equipped throughout in the

in Hilltown township, September 19, 1862. latest and most improved style, and every Samuel Detwiler, the father of our subject, possible convenience is arranged for the com-

was born in Hilltown township, where he fort of the guests. It is a model hotel in has always resided. Early in life he learned every respect, and the excellent meals to be the occupation of a miller, which in connec- had is one of the strongest points of this

tion with farming he followed until his re- popular house. But still the most important tirement. He is a man of sound judgment factor in the success of the Blooming Glen and excellent business capacities, and has the Hotel remains to be mentioned, namely, respect and esteem of a large circle of ac- the cordial hospitality which Mr. Detwiler ; :

BUCKS COUNTY 223

extends to every guest and the manner in was reared, and where early in life he entered which he caters to their wants has made a the mercantile business. After a time he name for him and his establishment through- moved to Ohio, where he purchased a farm out the district. He has always been an am- and was engaged in agricultural pursuits for bitious and energetic worker, and it is wholly a few years. He again returned to the state through his own efforts that he occupies his of Pennsylvania and operated a hotel in present standing in Blooming Glen. Montgomery County during the rest of his

September 26, 1885, he was united in the active life. The latter years of his life were holy bonds of wedlock with Lizzie Stover, spent in retirement, and he resided with our a daughter of Gideon and Sarah (Detwi- subject at Newtown, where he passed into the ler) Stover, of Bedminster township, Bucks unknown beyond in 1896, aged sixty-eight County, and they are the happy parents of years. He was joined in wedlock with

seven children ; Emma ; Stella ; I/illie ; Laura, Sophia C. Deimer, and they became the

who died at the age of four years ; Howard proud parents of the following children

Harvey; and another who died in infancy. George, whose trade is that of a blacksmith,

Religiously, they are faithful members of the is now serving in the Pennsylvania National

Reformed Church at Dublin, Pa. Guard in the War against Spain ; Walter, a

clerk and bookkeeper of Philadelphia ; Fan-

nie, the wife of Theodore Ambler ; Ida, who

is a clerk in her brother's establishment at

and Frank B. , the subject of this KRANK B. WENTWORTH. Figuring Newtown ; conspicuously as a leading and repre- personal history. sentative business house of Newtown, is the Frank B. Wentworth, after obtaining a general merchandise store conducted by the good training in the public schools, moved gentleman whose name appears above. This to North Wales in 1884 and embarked in the establishment, although not the oldest in the mercantile business. Three years later he vicinity, in point of size, stock carried, and purchased the old Township Hotel at New- the amount of business transacted, is one of town, to which he transferred his stock and the largest in the county. Mr. Wentworth opened a general store. His father assumed has a thorough understanding of the wants charge of the store, and Mr. Wentworth of his many customers, and his advantages operated the Newtown Creamery for a year. in buying the goods in his different lines The manner in which his store flourished make his place a desirable one at which to warranted him in turning his entire atten- built trade. He is a son of George W. and Sophia tion to that line of business. He an hotel building, ft., C. (Deimer) Wentworth, and was born at addition to the 32 by 32 stories and a basement, and his West Liberty, Ohio, April 9, 1866. with two George W. Wentworth, the father of our establishment now covers more space than subject, was born in Philadelphia, where he any other of a like nature in the county. ;

224 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Besides a comprehensive line of dry goods township, where he carried on farming. He and groceries, he carries a complete stock of finally located in Buckingham township and furniture, paints, oils, crockery, etc. He has established the family homestead, now owned built up a very large trade in Newtown and by his son Preston J. There he was engaged in the villages and country surrounding, and in tilling the soil until his death in 1843. his patronage has grown to such an extent He married Maria Mann, and the following that he was obliged to erect a warehouse children were born to them : Benjamin ; Jona- near his store. On the north end of his than, the father of our subject; Mary; John; property he erected a handsome double Martha; Preston J., whose biographical re- house, one half of the house for himself and cord appears elsewhere in this work ; Josiah

family, and the other half for his aged ; ; Elizabeth ; Elmira ; James S. Susan W. An- mother. He enlarged the barns, made nu- thony W. ; Emily C. ; and Sarah E. merous improvements, and now has one of Jonathan Rich was born on the old home- the best residences in the village. stead in Buckingham township, and received Frank B. Wentworth was united in the his education in the common schools. He holy bonds of wedlock with Agnes Miller, a was reared to agricultural pursuits, and after daughter of Captain Mathias Miller, and his marriage left the parental roof and en- they are the parents of two children : Eva S. gaged in farming on his own account in and Abbie May. Politically, he is an un- Buckingham township. He was quite pro- swerving supporter of the Republican party, minent in his section and held many of the while in religious views he is a Presbyterian. township offices. He was united in marriage Socially, he is a member of Newtown lyodge, with Alice Slack, and five children blessed I. O. O. F. their home: Mary K., the wife of Paxson Pursell, a conductor on the Philadelphia

Street Railway; James S., whose name ap- 'AMES S. RICH, a prosperous and en- pears at the head of these lines; John M.,

terprising agriculturist of Bucking- whose death occurred in 1887; Margaret S.,

ham township, Bucks County, and a a resident of Atlantic City, N.J. ; and William gentleman who made an honorable record as S., a grocer of Philadelphia. Mrs. Rich was a soldier in the Civil War, resides on a fine called to her home beyond the river of Death estate of 103 acres near the village of Holi- in July, 1885, and her husband joined her in cong. He is a son of Jonathan and Alice October of the same year. (Slack) Rich, and was born in Buckingham James S. Rich attended the common schools township, January 17, 1840. of his native township and was reared upon He comes from an old and well-known the farm. At the outbreak of the Civil War, family of the county and is a grandson of An- he enlisted in George W. Durrell's Battery, in thony Rich, who was born in Plumstead town- September of 1861, with which he remained ship, but subsequently moved to Doylestown and participated in all of the battles in which

THEODORE P. HARVEY. BUCKS COUNTY 227

the battery was engaged until his discharge in still live, the latter as follows: Charles H.,

September, 1864. He was under fire for who married Jane Cuthburt, and lives near ninety-seven days in all, and although at times Pittsburg ; Margaret, the wife of Rev. Charles he was in the thickest of the fight, he luckily B. Williams, a Presbyterian minister of I^ex- escaped unscathed. The battles in which he ington. 111. ; and William S. Those who have participated are: Second Bull Run; Antie- passed away are: Anthony W.; R. Madaline;

tam ; South Mountain ; Chantilla ; Fredericks- Alice T. ; and Madaline Henderson. In poli-

burg; Vicksburg; Jackson, Miss.; and the tical afiiliations, he is a Republican, and has Wilderness. He was discharged at Peters- held the ofiice of school director for a number burg, Va., in September, 1864, after which of terms. Religiously, both he and his worthy he returned home. After his marriage in wife are members of the Presbyterian Church 1866, he moved to Yardley, Bucks County, of Carversville, Pa. where he embarked in the mercantile business,

and continued with fair success for five years. He then went to Philadelphia and engaged in the wholesale hat business for nine years, m HEODOREHE( P. HARVEY, deceased, and then in the grocery business for seven e>J_ was an expert telegrapher of Doyles- years with good results. Upon the expiration town for a period of over twenty-five years,

of that- time, he moved to his present farm in being one of the first operators of the tele- Buckingham township, which he has since graph in the state of Pennsylvania. He was cultivated, carrying on general farming. He a son of Joseph and Ann (Horner) Harvey, has greatly improved the property, both land and was born in Doylestown township, just

and buildings, and the place presents an ap- outside of the borough line, February 18, pearance of neatness and other indications of 1833- good management, which unfortunately are Mr. Harvey was reared upon the farm and too often absent on most farms. He is a man obtained a good intellectual training in the of excellent business propensities and practi- common schools, and in a private school,

cal experience in business dealings, and the under the tutelage of Rev. S. M. Andrews, success which has attended his efforts is due D. D., a minister of the Gospel and an edu- to those qualities, combined with his industry cator of state-wide reputation. Our subject and honest methods. He performs every ob- was a very apt student and acquired an ex- ligation of a dutiful citizen, and is one of the cellent English education. From boyhood good solid men of the community. he was an expert telegrapher, and his career In 1866, Mr. Rich was joined in wedlock along that line was almost as long as the with Madaline, a daughter of Charles and history of the magnetic telegraph system, Margaret Henderson, the former of whom was being the fourth in Doylestown to learn the a wholesale hatter in Philadelphia. Seven code and the manipulation of the key. Joseph

children blessed thjs union, three of whom Steward was the first and transmitted his ;

228 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

knowledge to Edward Campbell, who in the Holly Water System, of which he was a turn taught Thomas H. Walton, from whom strong advocate. Socially, he was a member

our subject acquired his knowledge of tele- of the Doylestown Council, No. 166, Jr. O. graphy. He was seventeen years of age U. A. M., of which he was treasurer for many when he began to learn the craft and he soon years and was serving in that capacity at the

became proficient as an operator, being en- time of his death, February 5, 1886. Mr.

trusted with responsible positions from the Harvey's portrait is shown on another page

very start. As he gained in experience better in connection with the above life history. positions were offered him, and from Doyles- town he moved to Allentown, and thence to Norristown, where he also conducted a drug

store with good results. In 1858, he went to r^HILIP S. CRESSMAN, the proprie- Cincinnati where he remained for one year, ^~^ tor of the American House of Per-

during which time it fell to his duty to trans- kasie, Bucks County, Pa., is well mit a presidential message, which he did and favorably known throughout the county,

faithfully and accurately. In 1859, he re- and his establishment is patronized by the

turned to Doylestown, where he assumed the leading commercial travelers, and is a pleasant management of the local telegraph business resort for summer boarders. He is a son of and served efhciently in that capacity until Henry and Sarah A. (Snyder) Cressman, and his demise. a careful He was business man, was born in Hilltown township. May 31, a good accountant, and was always faithful i860. to the confidence reposed in him. He was His grandfather was Philip Cressman, who also interested in a number of business enter- was born in Rockhill township, where he prises and was in partnership with James conducted a farm and followed the trade of a

Kane, with whom he owned the Gas Works blacksmith all his life. He formed a marital and supplied the gas for the borough for union with a Miss Stout, and they were the many years. parents of two children, namely : Henry

In 1 86 1, he was united in marriage with and Eliza (Leidy). Mrs. Cressman passed to Lydia A. Shearer, a daughter of Jesse W. and her final rest at the age of fifty-six years, and Margaret (Kneedler) Shearer of Doylestown was joined by her husband beyond the river township. Mrs. Harvey was a devoted and of death a few years later. dutiful wife, and possesses many other excel- Henry Cressman, the father of our subject, lent traits of character which have won the was born in Rockhill township, but at the love and respect of a large circle of acquaint- age of six years moved to Hilltown township ances in Doylestown, where she now resides. with his parents. There he was reared and Politically, Mr. Harvey was a stanch Demo- educated to agricultural pursuits, which he crat and served as a member of the water always followed, and became one of the good committee at the time of the introduction of substantial farmers of the community. He BUCKS COUNTY 229

was united in marriage with Sarah A. Snyder, a retreat from the noise and turmoil of city who was born in 1833, and now resides in life. He is genial and good natured, and

Sellersvill^, and their union resulted in the makes friends of all with whom he meets, following issue : James, who lives in Hill- being especially popular with the residents of town township; William, a resident of Rich- Perkasie. He has done much to advance the land township, Bucks County ; Philip S., the interests of the place, being one of its most

subject of this sketch ; Henry, who is princi- progressive citizens and business men. Ift pal of schools at Egg Harbor, N. J., and a 1884 he built a lai-ge store building on Seventh well-known educator; and Mary, deceased. and Market streets, one of the best buildings Mr. Cressinan passed away at the age of fifty- in the town, and in 1895 erected a good

six years. In religious attachments, he and livery barn, which is conducted in connection his family were members of the Lutheran with the hotel, thus affording another con- Church. venience to his guests. In the latter build- Philip S. Cressman was reared and spent ing are also rooms for a cigar factory, the his early manhood upon his father's farm, but Perkasie Hose Company, and lodge rooms. six months after his marriage he went to In 1885 Mr. Cressman was united in mar- Hagersville, where he was employed in a riage with Mary Crouthamel, a daughter of clerical position for a period of eighteen Reuben Crouthamel of Hagersville, and they months. He then located at Perkasie, where became the happy parents of the following

he became proprietor of the old American children : Howard ; Frank ; I/. ; Mabel and

Hotel, and although he had no practical Winfield. Politically, he is an unswerving

experience in that line of business, he had all Democrat, and has served as school director

of the necessary characteristics which go to of the borough. Socially, he is a member of make an ideal landlord. By good manage- MacCalla L,odge, No. F. & A. M. Junior 596, ;

ment he made the venture pay welly and in Order of United American Mechanics ; and

1893 erected a handsome new hotel, as the I. O. O. F. old one proved inadequate for his rapidly

increasing business. It is a modern building of three stories, and has thirty pleasant, well- ISAIAH HESTON. The Heston family, furnished and nicely arranged rooms, with all of whom the subject of these lines is a modern conveniences for the comfort of his well-known member, has for many guests. One of the most pleasing features of years been closely associated with the pro- this establishment is the excellent table that gress and improvement of Bucks County. is set. He not only caters to the commercial Our subject, although living in retirement,

trade, but to summer boarders as well, who resides on his fine farm, which is located in find the quiet and retired town of Perkasie, Newtown township, and consists of 76 acres with its excellent facilities for pleasure, a of highly improved land. He was born in good burial place for their business cares, and Upper Makefield township, this county, the 12* ;

230 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

date of his birth being November 7, 1823, education, and at nine years of age left the and he is a son of Joshua and Mary (Rooks) parental roof and began working on the farm Heston. of John Harmon, of Upper Makefield town- Our subject traces his ancestral history ship, remaining in that gentleman's employ back to Zebulon Heston, who came from the some ten years, during which time he also manor house of "Heston" near London, learned the trade of a blacksmith. In 1848 England, about 1650, and settled in Eastham, our subject located in Newtown township, Barnstable County, Mass. In 1686, Zebulon but soon after moved to Lower Makefield located in Burlington, N. J., where he owned township, and in the spring of 1874 purchased several hundred acres of land ; he also his present farm of Dr. Gordon, formerly owned 300 acres in Bucks County, Pa., and known as the Thomas Yardley place. This was one of the well-to-do men of his time. rich and productive farm consists of 76 acres His wife's name was Dorothy, and they had of land, and our subject makes & specialty of a family of nine children. raising potatoes, raising as high as 2500 Joshua Heston, the father of our subject, bushels fruits a year ; he also raises small and was born in Wrightstown township, this has a large orchard. Mr. Heston is esteemed county, but early in life moved to Upper by a host of acquaintances, and in all his

Makefield township where he pursued his business transactions is recognized as an hon- vocation as a shoemaker. He was united orable, straightforward man, bne who makes in marriage with Mary Rooks, a native of and keeps hosts of friends, and wields an New Jersey, and of German descent. She influence for good in his community. was twice married ; her first husband was a Mr. Heston, December 17, 1848, was joined Mr. Dean and two children were born to in marriage with Margaret E. Reeder, of New- them, John and Anna, both — now deceased. town, Pa. , a daughter of Joseph and Maria Five children resulted from her second mar- (Krewson) Reeder. Mr. Reeder was a native riage, namely: Mary, who died September 5, of Newtown and died October 2, 1852 ; his

1 8 aged sixteen years; Cyrus, 19, deceased, trade was that of a mason ; his wife was born at was a miller of Upper Makefield township Somerton, Pa., and died November 18, 1889. in early life, but at the time of his death he They were the parents of six children,

was a resident of Piqiia, ; Ohio Isaiah, our namely : Emily, the wife of M. Green, both subject; Elizabeth, born July 25, 1826, is the deceased ; Yardley married Emily German, wife of Joseph Reeder, a retired farmer of now deceased, and he is a bricklayer at New-

Shelby, Ohio ; and Amy, born December 22, town ; Margaret E., the wife of our subject 1828, deceased, was the wife of C. A. Atkin- Sarah J., whose first husband was C. Benford, son, a farmer of Pemberton, Ohio. The and her second, Wesley Swartworth ; and father of our subject died in the year 1832, Alford, a cabinetmaker of Newtown, Pa. and his mother passed from this life in 1852. Mrs. Heston's maternal grandfather was John Isaiah Heston received a common school Krewson, a farmer and weaver of Somer-

REV. JAMES RILEY BERGEY. —;

BUCKS COUNTY 233

ton, Pa. Her grandfather Reeder was a har- and was born in Lower Salford township, nessmaker of Newtown, and he married Sarah Montgomery County, Pa., November 26, 1867.

Yardley, by whom he reared the following The family is of German descent, and the

children : John, Jacob, George, Maria, Ann, various families of that name in Bucks Mary Ann, Mercy, Sarah, and Cornelia. Mr. County all trace their ancestry back to one, and Mrs. Heston are the parents of six chil- John Ulrich Bergey, who located in the cen-

dren, as follows; Anna M., born May 8, tral portion of Montgomery County about

1850, died December 8, 187 1, was the wife of the beginning of the eighteenth century. He Charles Pedcock, of Upper Makefield town- was one of the pioneer farmers of Lower Sal- ship, and they reared one child, Maggie, who ford township, where he continued to reside now lives with our subject and wife; Ran- until his death.

dolph, born April 24, 1852, married Florence Jacob Bergey, the great-grandfather of our Young by whom he reared three children, subject, was a native and life-long resident of

Frank, Ella, and Isaiah ; Sallie, born Novem- Lower Salford township, where he owned

ber 27, 1854, is the wife of Charles .Taylor, a some hundred acres of land and engaged in as were carriage maker of Pennington, N. J., and one farming. He also was a weaver, child blessed this union, Ella; Lafayette, many of the heads of families of that day.

born January 14, 1857, died January 23, 1861 As far back as known, the family belonged to

Ella G., born March 14, 1861, is the wife of the Mennonite Church. He died on his years. S. W. Bergen, a retired citizen of Trenton, farm in 1828, aged sixty-seven He born March 24, 1864, married Elizabeth Gottshall, the widow of N. J.; and Harry C, who married Sallie C. Young, July 14, 1891, Jacob Brachtheiser, and they had a large and they are the proud parents of two chil- family of children, one of whom was David, dren, Bessie and Hermon. the grandfather of the gentleman whose name heads these lines. David Bergey was born in Lower Salford township, Montgomery County, in 1804, and Reformed ^EV. JAMES RILEY BERGEY, the was a farmer and a minister of the able and popular beloved pastor of the Salem Re- Mennonite Church, being an formed Church of Doylestown, minister of the Conference. He was a forcible and an earnest Christian man, and Bucks County, whose portrait is shown on speaker for many years had two charges, one at Skip- the opposite page, is a man of good educa- pack, Montgomery County, and the other, tion, a clear and logical thinker, and a pleas- Gehman's Meeting House at Rockhill, Bucks ing and entertaining speaker. He has had County. He retained these charges until his charge of his present pastorate only one year, death at the age of eighty, a period of but he has become firmly established in the thirty years. He was united in marriage affections of his congregation. He is a son of with Elizabeth ReifF, the widow of John Jacob R. and Susanna D. (Bertolet) Bergey, 234 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Kolb, who had two children by her first mar- with the class of 1894, in which he stood very riage. Mr. and Mrs. Bergey reared seven high, being one of the eight chosen to deliver

children, two of whom died in childhood, pur an address at Commencement. Rev. Mr.

subject's father, Jacob R., being the youngest Bergey is also a talented musician, and, while born to them. attending college at lyancaster, sang in the Jacob R. Bergey was born on the old home- chorus oi the Jewish Synagogue and in the

stead November i,. 1838, and lived there all of choir of the Protestant Episcopal Church.

his life. He was a farmer for many years, but Immediately after his graduation, he took in his latter years was serving as director of charge of three congregations in the West

the poor and was president of the Montgom- Susquehanna Classis, Union County, Pa. , and ery Home for five years, in which capacity he served them faithfully for three years, or

was serving at the time of his death, February until June i, 1897, when he was called to

13, 1897. In political belief, he was an ar- accept the pastorate of the Salem Reformed

deut Republican, and was elected director of Church of Doylestown, succeeding Rev. L,. the poor in 1892. At the expiration of that C. Sheip, deceased. He has since continued term in 1895, he was re-elected by the largest in his duties as pastor of that church and majority of any man on the ticket. Relig- stands high in the estimation of the citizens

iously, he was a member of the Trinity of Doylestown, regardless of religious faith. Reformed Church of Skippack, and served Rev. Mr. Bergey was united in hymeneal

successively as trustee, deacon and elder, fill- bonds with Ella Naomi Huber, a daughter of ing the latter office at the time of his death. Rev. S. M. K. Huber, of Skippack, Mont-

In 1863, he was united in matrimonial bonds gomery County, October 16, 1894, and they with Susanna D. Bertolet, a native of Fred- are the proud parents of one daughter, Helen erick, Montgomery County, and they reared Elizabeth. the following children: John B., a teacher and general insurance man of West Point; L,iz7.ie, the wife of Joseph Detwiler, who II.MER A. TWINING. Members resides on the old Bergey homestead; and W:of the Twining family are num- Rev. Riley, James the subject of this personal bered with the most influential citizens of history. Bucks County, Pa., and of the many, who Rev. James Riley Bergey, after attending deserve an honored mention in the annals the public schools of his native township, of history, this gentleman certainly should entered Ursinus College, where he completed be noticed. He is pursuing the vocation an elective course, and one year's study in of a farmer, and occupies a fine farm located the Theological Seminary. then He took in Wrightstown township, consisting of 141 the remaining two years' course in the Theo- acres. He was born in the house in which logical Seminary of the Reformed Church of he now resides, the date of his birth being America at I/ancaster. He was graduated April 17, 1865, and is a son of Cyrus B. and ;

BUCKS COUNTY 235

Sally M. (Atkinson) Twining, and grandson the township and commands the good-will of Jacob and Priscilla (Buckman) Twining. and respect of his fellow-citizens. The grandfather of our subject was born Wilmer A. Twining was united in marriage

in Northampton township, this county, and October 14, 1886, with Lottie B. Vandergrift, his occupation was that of an agriculturist, a native of Buckingham township, and a in which he was very successful. Cyrus B. daughter of James M. and Sadie (Gaine) Van-

Twining, the father of our subject, was also dergrift; her father is living in retirement in

born in Northampton township, and was Pineville, Pa., and her mother is deceased. reared to manhood on his father's farm are the proud parents of ; he Our subject and wife located in Wrightstown township in 1853 and two children. Religiously, the members of the

purchased what is now our subject's present family are attendants of the Friends' Meeting. farm. In addition to general farming he was Politically, he has always been a Republican, also engaged in pork packing, and followed as was his father, and he has served three the two occupations until his death. In 1866 years as school director, in which capacity his he bought another farm and resided, there father had served for seventeen years. until his spirit was called from earth, which

was February 14, 1892. He was joined in marriage with Sally M. Atkinson, who was

born in Wrightstown township January 19, -t^T-ENRY C. DETWEILER is a musi- 1825, and they became the proud parents of r^4 cal instructor of recognized ability -i-^ six children, named as follows : Jonathan A., V, ^ and a well-known manufacturer whose sketch also appears in this Book of of cigars. He has been a highly esteemed Biographies; Nellie T., the wife of Stephen resident of Hagersville, Bedminster town- K. Cooper, of Wrightstown township; Wil- ship, since 1871, but his business has called is a mer A., the subject of this sketch ; Thomas him to all parts of the county. He son O. died, aged three years; Willie, died in of Henry and Anna (Clymer) Detweiler, and infancy; and Frank, who died at the age of was born in Milford township, Bucks County,

five years. October i, 1850. Wilmer A. Twining received his elementary His grandfather, Jacob Detweiler, was one education in the common schools of his native of the good substantial farmers of Upper township and in Pierce's Business College Milford township, L,ehigh County, Pa. He of Philadelphia; our subject was reared to married a Miss Heist, and the following

blessed their : agricultural pursuits and remained during children union Jacob ; Samuel his boyhood days on the homestead which Jonas; Daniel; Henry; Elizabeth; and Ca-

Ijas been in his possession since he attained his therine. manhood. He has made many improvements Henry Detweiler, the father of our subject, upon the homestead and is engaged in farming was born on April 24, 181 7, and early in life and dairying. He is well known throughout learned the trade of a shoemaker, which he —;

236 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

followed a few years and then took up the located at Hagersville. He had studied mu- occupation of a farmer. He was a very pros- sic with Jacob Bibighouse, of Trumbauers- perous man and spent the latter years of his ville, Pa. , for two years and with Prof. Hess life in retirement. He died December 23, of Bethlehem for a short time, and displayed 1895, at a ripe old age. He was united in much talent in that direction. Upon re- hymeneal bonds with Anna Clymer, who was moving to Hagersville, he became organist born February 22, 1817, and is now enjoying of the Lutheran Church of that village which life at the advanced age of eighty-one years position he has since held, and for the past in Richland Center, where she resides with fourteen years has been organist of the Lu- one of her sons. Her father was a farmer of theran and Reformed Churches of Tohickon* Milford township, and as a result of his union He has also served in that capacity for two with a Miss Schaffer, nine children were born : years in Keller's Church and in the Appel-

Esther; Polly; Hannah ; Sallie ; Susan; Anna; bach Lutheran Church, and has played at one who died in infancy ; Henry ; and John. diiferent times in Bridgeton. For the past

Mr. and Mrs. Detweiler were the happy twenty-five years, he has been an able in- parents of nine children : Mary, the wife of structor in music and has a large number of Jacob D. Clymer, a resident of Quakertown scholars, from whom he derives the best Aaron C, who married Anna Clymer, is now possible results by his most efi&cient methods. a merchant of Quakertown, and has three He manufactures a high grade of cigars children, —Frances, Henry, and Elizabeth; and they find a ready sale throughout the Mahlon C, who is postmaster of Richland county, which goes to prove that had he Center, married Elizabeth Trumbauer; Wil- been unsuccessful in the field of music, he liam C, who died at the age of twenty-four would have been successful in other fields. years, was a school teacher and a clerk; He also had the agency for the Royal Piano Henry C, the subject of this biographical Organ Company of & Washington, N. J., for sketch ; Susan, whose death occurred at the some years, and in his different business age of twenty years ; Anna, deceased, had capacities he has become well known two children, —Clara, who married John Ben- throughout the county, and has made many ner, a cigarmaker of Quakertown, and a son fast friends. who died in infancy; Catherine married March 29, 1873, Mr. Detweiler was united Samuel Slifer of Milford Square, and has one in marriage with Alice Hartzel, who is a child living, Freddie, and four deceased, native of Richland township, and a daughter Kate, Florence, Carrie, and Willis ; and Fran- of Elias and Barbara (Eckert) Hartzel. Elias cis, died who at the age of two years. Hartzel was always a good, solid farmer of Henry C. Detweiler was reared on the farm this county, where he was born May 3, 18 17, and obtained his education in the public and died January 28, i860. Mrs. Hartzel was schools of Milford towtlship. At the age of born September 15, 1821, and is now residing twenty years, he left the parental roof and with the subject of this sketch. Their union ;,

BUCKS COUNTY 237 was blessed by the following offspring : a son the school a possibility, by giving largely of died who in infancy ; Alice (Mrs. Detweiler) his means towards its founding, was John Phares, a plasterer of Perkasie, who was twice Malin George, who was born in 1802, and married, —his first marriage with Carrie Eck- died in his eighty-fifth year. He was elder of ert resulted in one daughter, Gertrude, and the Radnor Monthly Meeting of Friends, and his second wife, Sallie Furnorman, bore him a member of the Merion Preparative Meeting a son, Calvin ; Mary married Pierson Stout, a of Friends. His parents were Randall and plasterer of Perkasie, and they have two sons, Elizabeth (Malin) George. His family coming Oscar and Edwin, and the fifth and sixth to an end with his death, and having no im- children born to them died in infancy. Mr. mediate relatives to whom he could leave his and Mrs: Detweiler are the proud parents of wealth, he provided in his last will and testa- six children : I^izzie H., who was born March ment that all his estate, which amounted in 28, 1874, married Frank Maurer, a painter of value to $625,000, be employed to erect and Perkasie, and they have two sons, Raymond maintain in the eastern part of Pennsyl- and Clarence L,eon; William H., born March vania a " boarding school for the education 27, 1876, is a cigarmaker by trade; Mary H., of children, members of the Society of born May 8, 1880; Charles H., who was born Friends, and such others as a committee ap-

February 21, 1883, died on March 14, follow- pointed by the Yearly Meeting may think ing; Frederick H-, born September 22, 1884; proper."

and Henry Paul, born November 9, 1892. The terms of his legacy were carried out Religiously, they are faithful members of with promptness, and the committee, that

the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church of was appointed to select a suitable site for the Church Hill. Mr. Detweiler is an active future school, decided on the present loca-

Democrat in 'politics, and served as assessor tion, selecting it from about 100 sites offered. from 1880 to 1886 in a highly satisfactory The grounds, which contain 227 acres, have manner, and has also held other minor ofl&ces. a beautiful location half a mile south of New- town, Pa., on an elevation, that furnishes a wide view of the surrounding rich farming

district. Immediately north of the build-

a boarding school ings is a tract of 46 acres of thriving timber. ; '.EORGE SCHOOL, si_J- for both sexes, located near the Two streams of water run through the farm, borough of Newtown, is under the care of a and three fine, living springs furnish an committee of the Yearly Meeting of Friends abundance of cool, pure water. The build- of Philadelphia, Pa. George L. Maris, A. M. ings consist of one main building with two

is principal of the same, having been called wings, having a total frontage of 242 feet,

to his present position upon the organization and a depth of 140 feet ; a dormitory for of the school in 1893. boys 43 feet by 58 feet; a gymnasium and The philanthropic gentleman, who made: infirmary. The main building is an impos- .

238 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

ing, modern structure, four stories in height, day school, which holds its sessions in the built of brick with white stone trimmings, school building each First-day morning be- the architecture of the building being on a fore Meeting. The Young Friends' Associa- whole Old Colonial. The rooms are large, tion, or, as it is generally called, the Y. F. A., well-lighted and airy, and the halls are very has a stated meeting once a month, which all spacious.- The building is heated through- members of the school attend for the pur- out with direct radiators, and lighted by gas pose of studying the history and literature of and electricity. The appointments in every the Religious Society of Friends. A meet- department are most complete and finished, ing for religious services is also held in the for no expense was spared to obtain the best, assembly room of the school building each and provide well for the health and comfort Fourth-day evening. Two literary societies, of the inmates. The gymnasium is a two- "The Penn" and "The Whittier," include story, brick building, 45 by 70 feet, and is all the students, and keep up a lively interest well fitted up with Swedish apparatus also in reading, declamation and debate. ; with rings, Indian clubs, wands, dumb bells, The total cost of all the improvements on and chest weights. Ten feet above the floor the property of George School, including is a running track of the latest model, with the original cost of the land and the out-lajr adjoining dressing-room. The two-story in- for the erection of buildings, has been $315,- firmary is attached to the east wing of the 000. In the summer of 1897, Jacob Fritz,

main building, and is so constructed that of I/umberville, Bucks County, died and cases of contagious diseases can be entirely bequeathed the whole of his estate, amount- isolated from the other parts of the house. ing to $87,000, to George School, reserving

The students' rooms are well lighted and from this amount $55,000 for the iise of his ventilated, and are taken care of by the in- three surviving sisters during their lives, mates. The library and reading room has a which sum was to revert to George School well-selected list of books for reference and on their deaths. A large part of the estate general reading, and suitable provision has' is conducted as a farm, under the superin- been made for teaching the sciences by means tendence of Charles Jessups. A great deal of of laboratories equipped with modern appli-. produce, berries and fruit in season is raised ances. Both boys and girls are given instruc- for the School. The Philadelphia & Read- tion in working wood and metal, the object ing Railroad runs through the grounds, and being to develop accuracy of the eye and "George School Station" is only about 400 precision of hand, to impart readiness and yards from the school buildings. A post- skill in the use of tools, a knowledge of office is conducted in the main building. materials, and an acquaintance with mechan- George School opened November 6, 1893, ical processes. Teachers and students attend with about 150 students, and there are now Friends' Meeting in Newtown on First-days, in attendance from 180 to 190 boys and girls. and all the students are members of the First- The faculty for the year 1898-99 is as- follows;

HOWARD Y, RICH. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 241

George I,. Maris, A.M., principal; Charles State Normal School, and held that position

M. Stabler, A.B., instructor in I^atin; Jesse until 1873, when he became principal of the H. Holmes, Ph.D., instructor in astronomy, Friends' Central School at Fifteenth and Race

chemistry and physics ; George H. Nutt, streets, Philadelphia. While filling that posi-

B.S., whose department is manual training tion, he served as a member of the committee and draughting Russell Smith, teacher of appointed to select a site for George School, ; J. history; Albert T. Yarnall, B.I/:, instructor and was elected principal of the same in as president in higher mathematics ; Mary E. Speakman, 1893. In 1887, Mr. Maris served

teacher of composition and rhetoric ; Belle of the State Teachers' Association at Erie, Vansant, teacher of biology; Sophie I/ange, Pa. Mr. Maris was married to Annie Pink- teacher of German, French and drawing erton, daughter of Elisha Pinkerton, of Ches- Mary Underbill, M;S;, teacher of mathe- ter County, Pa., and has two children living,

matics and German ; Gertrude C. Smith, in- namely : Helen M., a graduate of George

structor in reading; Mary Esther Sawyer, School ; and Herbert L,., now a student at the

whose department is physical training; Curtis University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich. Eves, who also has charge of the departruent As has. been shown in the above account of

is of physical training ; Helen M. Maris, assist- his life, the principal of George School a

ant in French and German ; Estelle Brinton, man of wide experience along educational

assistant in English branches; Anna Jackson, lines, and it is indeed fortunate that the com- Yearly Meeting made so wise a librarian ; and Cassandra H. Rice; matron. mittee of the

George L,. Maris, principal of George choice' at the very beginning. Every depart-

School from its inception, was born in ment of the school has prospered and ad-

Chester County, Pa., and is a son of Norris vanced under the guidance of his hand. He and Ann (Davis) Maris, natives of that is a cultured, refined gentleman of decided county, whose family genealogies may be literary tastes, and is excellently adapted for * traced in Am^erican history .back ;to 1683. the position he is now filling. George L. Maris prepared for college at West Chester Academy, and then taught two years in the public schools, and two years in West Chester Academy. Resuming his, collegiate "OWARD Y. RICH. This honored education, he completed the same in the and esteemed citizen of Dyerstown, University of Michigan, graduating from Plumstead township, Bucks Coun-

that institution in 1 867. He was then teacher ty, Pa., whose portrait, executed from a re- in West Chester Academy until 1869, when cent photograph, is shown on the opposite he was elected superintendent of the schools page, is spending his latter days in quiet and of Chester County., Pa, for three years. When peace, enjoying the fruits of his early toil his term of public service was completed, he He was born near his present home in Plum-

was elected principal of the West Chester stead township, this county, October 17, 1849, «3 ;:

242 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

and is a son of Daniel C. and Hannah (Yarnall) resident of Plumstead township ; and two Rich. sons that died in infancy. Our subject's

The Rich family is of English Quaker father died in 1894, at the age of eighty-four

stock, and is a family long established in this years. county. Alexander Rich, our subject's great- Howard Y. Rich was reared on the home- grandfather, resided in Bucks County all his stead and received his elementary education

life, and his life occupation was that of a in the district schools of Plumstead township,

farmer. He was the father of a large family and at the Westtown Friends' School at of children, one of whom was John, the Westtown, Chester County, Pa. Our subject grandfather of our subject, who was born in then took up farming as a means of obtain- this county, and was reared to agricultural ing a livelihood, and successfully prosecuted pursuits. He, like his father, was a mem- that occupation until 1896, when he retired

ber of the Society of Friends. John Rich from the more active duties of life. He gave was joined in the bonds of wedlock with Ra- special attention to stock raising, in addition chael Carlisle, by whom he reared a family to farming. His farm gives every evidence

of two sons and three daughters, namely of the skill, taste and enterprise of its owner. Daniel C, our subject's father ; Elizabeth Mr. Rich has the esteem, confidence and

Mary Ann Millicent ; a son ; and that died in affection of a wide circle of friends, who de- infancy. Daniel C. Rich was born in Plum- light to do him honor. stead township, this county, and his younger Mr. Rich firmly upholds the principles of days were spent working on his father's farm, the Republican party, has served seven years and attending the district school during the as a school director, and in 1896 was elected winter months. After he grew to manhood, poor director of Bucks County. He is a di- he took possession of the homestead, and rector of the Republican Printing Company successfully carried on general farming the of Doylestown, Pa. president of the Doyles- ; rest of his active days. Mr. Rich was widely town & Danboro Turnpike Company ; and a known throughout the county, and was held director of the Doylestown & Dublin Turn- in high esteem his by fellow-countrymen. pike Company. September 16, 1875, Mr. He was a member and active supporter of the Rich and Miss Mary Ann Stradling were Society of Friends politically, he was an un- ; united in marriage. She is a daughter of wavering Republican. He was wedded to Thomas Stradling, a teacher and farmer of Hannah Yarnall, a daughter of Enoch Yar- Plumstead township. Two children blessed nall, a prominent farmer and Friend of Del- the home of our subject and wife: Edward, aware County, Pa. Three sons and two who is a graduate of George School of daughters were the fruits of this union. Newtown, this county, spent two years at

,They were as follows : Deborah, a resident of Swarthmore College, and is now a student of

Dyerstown, this county ; Howard Y., whose the Medical Department of the University of name heads this brief notice ; Rachael, also a Pennsylvania ; and one that died in infancy. ;,;

BUCKS COUNTY 243

IlylylAM H. BUSH, a respected and one of the best sites in the village, and there Wihonored citizen of Quakertown, the weary traveler always found a welcome. where, he passed thirty-five years of active The hotel was first class in every respect ; it business life, is now living in quiet retire- was a three-story building, with rooms con- ment from active labor. For many years he veniently arranged and well furnished, and

won distinction as a landlord and proprietor was in all respects one of the most popular of the Bush House, which was one of the houses in the vicinity. Mr. Bush was a very best hotels in Bucks County. He was born genial and hospitable landlord, and estab-

in Northampton County, Pa., June 3, 1815, lished a fine reputation as a host. After

and is a son of John and Esther (McHose) accumulating a comfortable fortune, in 1 884 Bush, our subject sold his property to H. H. Bon-

John Bush was born in Northampton ders and retired from the active duties of life. life-long resident County, Pa., and was a of He owns the handsome home at No. 1 14 that county; his occupation was that of an Juniper street, where he resides.

agriculturist, in which he was very success- He chose for his life companion Christina ful. He wedded Esther McHose, and they Cope, who was born in Bucks County, Pa.

reared a number of children. August 9, 1823; she has been a kind and William H. Bush was reared to manhood loving mother and wife, and was a most ex- upon his father's farm, and acquired a good cellent hostess and faithful assistant to her education in the public schools of his native husband while he was conducting the hotel. township. He assisted his father in the cul- Mr. and Mrs. Bush are the parents of a

tivation of the farm until 1840, when he family of eleven children, namely : Caroline went to Philadelphia, and there he engaged U., wife of Phaon B. Derr of Philadelphia in the hotel business, being proprietor of the Joanna, wife of Worman Stoneback of Qua-

Merchants' House on Third street. There kertown ; Ella E., wedded to Dr. D. P. he rapidly built up a large trade and estab- Moyer, now deceased; Sallie A., united in lished quite a reputation as a host. In con- marriage with Howard Hemmelwright of nection with the hotel business he ran a Wildwood Springs, Cambria County, Pa. stage line from Philadelphia to Allentown, I^aura A., the wife of J. F. Shive; George and it was during one of his trips to the E. died young; Samuel E., a resident of latter village that he became acquainted with Philadelphia ; Ida, married to Frederick M. the flourishing village of Quakertown. In Leppincott of Quakertown, now deceased 1863 he sold his interests in Philadelphia and Lizzie A., a twin sister of Ida, died aged moved to Quakertown, where he purchased twenty-five years; Mary E.; and Edwin H., a hotel, which was just nearing completion, a traveling salesman whose headquarters are and named it the Bush House. The Bush in Philadelphia. Mr. Bush is an ex-member House was located on the corner of Broad and past grand master of the Quakertown and Front streets, just opposite the depot, Lodge, I. O. O. F. Religiously, he and his ;

244 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

wife are members of the I^utheran Church. namely : John, Jacob, Christian, Abraham, Mr. and Mrs. Bush have labored hand-in- Elizabeth (Kulb), Mark, Henry, and Barbara. hand through the years that have passed and Christian Fretz was born, in 1734, on the gone, and both have done their share in ac- old homestead in Bucks County, where he quiring the competency they possess, and in was reared and educated to agricultural pur- administering to the prosperity and educa- suits. He was appointed executor of his tion of their children. This aged couple are father's estate and continued at farming held in dear esteem by a large circle of ac- throughout his life, encountering the many quaintances, among whom they have lived difficulties to which the pioneers of that day for so many years. were subjected. They had frequent quarrels over trivial matters with the unfriendly Indians which inhabited this section ; had the

Indians been allowed their way further differ- R. CI.AYTON D. FRETZ, a scion ences of greater importance would have arisen of one of the most highly respected and might have proved disastrous. The Ji of Bucks County's early families, Indians are well known for their fixedness of

is a gentleman of high educational attain- purpose and great tenacity ; once having ments, residing in the borough of Sellersville determined upon a thing or plan, they are as he is an accomplished physician and enjoys immovable as the Rock of Gibraltar. Mr. the patronage of the leading citizens within Fretz was the unfortunate owner of a horse

a radius of many miles of that town. He which was greatly admired upon all sides and is a son of Abraham and Sarah (Detwiler) was much coveted by the Indians, who Fretz and was born in Bedminster township, offered to buy it and then upon being refused Bucks County, November i6, 1844. the sale stole it, under cover of night. The He is of German nationality and is de- sturdy old pioneer was at a loss how to regain

scended from John Fretz, who in connection his lost property, but having ascertained its

with his brother, Christian, established the whereabouts he finally decided to recover it family in America, having left their home in in the same manner it was taken. He went the Palatinate, now the Grand Duchy of to the camp of the red men one evening and Baden, Germany, in 1720, during the era waited until darkness enshrouded the wig- knowfa as the "Last Persecution." John wams of the enemy and the Indians had given Fretz located in Bucks County, Pa., where their customary wild shouts to frighten away he lived until his demise in 1772. He was wild beasts before retiring, when he stealthily twice married, his first wife being Barbara located and made off with his horse, which Meyer, a daughter of John Meyer who came happened to be out on pasture. In 1757, Mr. to America in 1708. The surname of his Fretz was united in marriage with Barbara second wife is unknown, her given name Oberholtzer, who was born November 20, being Maria by her he ; had eight children, 1737, and died in 1 823, by whom he had twelve BUCKS COUNTY 245

children, one hundred and nine grandchil- Sarah (Myers), deceased. After the demise dren, and one hundred and three great-grand- of his first wife, he formed a second matri- children. The record of their children are as monial alliance with Catherine Fry, who was follows : Manasseh, Barbara, Abraham, Eph- born January 12, 1827, and died July 5, 1886, raim, Judith, Moses, Anna, Dianna, Sarah, by whom he had the following issue : Lewis, and Elizabeth, all of whom were born on the who resides in Philadelphia ; Sybilla (Fen-

township. His Laura, deceased ; Kati^ old homestead in Bedminster ton), of Doylestown ; deceased death occurred in 1803, after a long and use- (Hudson), of Philadelphia ; Laura, ; ful life. Alice (Lewis), of Philadelphia ; and Abra- Abraham Fretz, the grandfather of our ham, deceased.

subject, was born March 30, 1 769, and followed Dr. Clayton D. Fretz, when he was but six that most honorable of occupations, farming. years of age, was deprived of the loving care He was well known as an honest and upright of his mother, who passed away after a lin- man and was a deacon of the church, which gering illness. He remained at home with

title clung to him through life. He was his father until the spring of 1855, when he

married, April 30, 1793, to Magdalena Kratz, hired out on the farm of the late Jonas who was born in Hilltown township August Myers, of Bedminster township, where he the following 30, 1776, and they reared the following off- remained for nearly two years ;

spring : Anna (Myers), Rebecca, Jacob, Chris- year he was with the late Reuben Stover,

tian, John, Isaac, Martin, Elizabeth, Barbara and in the year succeeding was with Aaron (Myers), and Abraham. Politically, he was Tyson, working on the farm during the sum- a Whig, whilst in religious views he was a mer months and attending school during the Mennonite, as were all of his ancestors. winters at Bedminster. His father having Abraham Fretz, the father of our subject, again taken to farming, he returned home in

was born October 9, 181 5, on the old home- 1859, assisting in the duties on the farm and stead, where he continued a prominent farmer during the winter months attending school and drover until he attained the advanced at Fretz Valley. In the spring of 1862, he age of seventy-six years, when he retired from attended the North Wales Institute under the

active life and lived with his daughter, Mrs. principalship of Mr. A. S. Overholt, and in Myers, until his death, which occurred in the succeeding spring was a student of that

1892. He was united in marriage with Sarah institution. In the summer of 1 864, he took

Detwiler, who was born January 5, 1818, and a course in Eastman's Business College, at

died July 18, 1850, and the following children Poughkeepsie, N. Y., of which he is a gradu-

blessed their union : Oliver, who lives in ate, after which he taught his first term of

Springfield township; Titus, deceased ; Le- school in the old Octogon School near Foun-

vina (Myers), of Perkasie ; Clayton D., the tainville, having received a certificate from

subject of this biographical record ; Clement- County Superintendent A. S. Overholt. He

ine (Hockman), of Bedminster township ; and taught for three years, going from the latter 246 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

place to the Monroe School and subsequently November 10, 1871, Dr. Fretz was joined to the Fretz Valley School. During the last in wedlock with Kate B. Everhart, a daugh- term he began reading medicine under the ter of Charles W. Everhart, of Sellersville, preceptorship of Dr. I. S. Moyer, then of and they are the proud parents of two sons.

Plumsteadville, and after he finished teaching Alfred E., the elder, born August 30, 1874, became a regular student in the latter's completed the required course in the high office, matriculating in 1866 at the Medical school of Sellersville, after which he taught Department of the University of Pennsylva- school for two terms and then entered the nia. During the succeeding two years, he Medical Department of the University of closely applied himself to study and was Pennsylvania. After a term of four years, he graduated in March, 1868, having acquired a was graduated in 1896, and was appointed thorough knowledge of his profession. Ten resident physician in Mercy Hospital at days later, he formed a partnership with Dr. Pittsburg, Pa., where he remained for six Nelson Applebach, of Sellersville, and they months and then returned to Sellersville practiced with much success until 1 871, when where he has since assisted in caring for his they dissolved partnership and our subject father's practice, which requires the entire has since continued alone, with the exception attention of both. He is a member of the of the past two years, during which time his Bucks County Medical Society, the Ivchigh eldest son has aided in caring for his large Valley Medical Society, and the Pennsylva- practice. He is a man of high character and nia State Medical Association. Socially, he has many friends throughout the county, who is a member of Ivodge No. 658, I. O. O. F., honor him as a dutiful citizen, a kind neigh- and of the local camp of the P. O. S. of A. bor and a true friend. The study of botany S. Edward, the younger son, was born Aug- and the collection of specimens of plants and ust 30, 1878, and after graduating from high flowers has afforded him much pleasure. He school took a course of one year in the Bio- is considered an authority on such matters logical Department of the University of and has added many new and rare plants to Pennsylvania, and is now in the class of 1900 the known flora of Bucks County, about in the Medical Department of that institu- twelve to the state flora, and also a variety tion. Politically, Dr. Fretz is a stanch unknown to science. His herbarium not Republican, and was a delegate to the State only contains a complete set of all the plants Convention of 1895. He has served as school of Bucks County, but a large majority of the director for a period of fifteen years, and has plants growing east of the Mississippi, in- been president of the Sellersville Bank since cluding not less than 10,000 specimens of 1894, also taking a deep interest in many about 4,000 species and varieties. In connec- other enterprises of the community. He is tion with his extensive practice, he has con- a member of the Bucks County MedicafSoci- ducted a drug store for the past twenty-two ety, the I^ehigh Valley Medical Society, the years. Bucks County Historical Association, the

DR. JAMES E. GROFF. BUCKS COUNTY 249

Bucks County Branch of the Pennsylvania Benjamin, in that township, for many years. Forestry Association, the Philadelphia Bot- He later engaged in general merchandising anical Society, the General Alumni Society at Chalfont, New Britain township, and in of the University of Pennsylvania, MacCalla his later years again occupied himself at mer-

lyodge. No. 596, F. & A. M.; Doylestown chant tailoring at Line Lexington, this Chapter, R. A. M.; Pennsylvania Command- county, where his death occurred in 1890.

ery. Knights Templar, of Philadelphia ; and He was a member of the Reformed Church.

Sellersville Lodge, I. O. O. F. He married Mary A. Fellman, daughter of Jacob Fellman, a well-to-do farmer living near Quakertown, Richland township, who was a member of a well-known family R. JAMES E. GROFF, one of the of that vifcinity, his brother, Charles Fell- most popular and successful physi- man, having served as a sheriff of the Ji cians in Bucks County, whose county in the early days. This brother was recent portrait we take pleasure in present- a popular man, and, although a Whig, was

ing on the opposite page, is located in elected sheriff when the county was strongly Doylestown, where he has built up an im- Democratic in its political complexion. mense practice, to attend to which taxes Dr. Groff was the only child in his parents'

his utmost endeavors. He is a native of this family. He was given a good knowledge of county, his birth having occurred near Sel- the common branches in the schools at Ben-

lersville, August 3, 1856, his parents being jamin, attending them until fifteen years of Isaac S. and Mary A. (Fellman) Groff. The age, when he engaged in teaching, and con-

family is of Holland Dutch descent. tinued as a pedagogue: for two years. He

Jacob GrofiF, his grandfather, was a native then entered Ursinus College at Collegeville,

of Rockhill townshipj this county, where his Pa. , and attended to his studies very assidu-

entire life was spent in agricultural pursuits. ously for two years and, a half, in that time In his chosen calling he achieved much suc- reaching the Sophomore year. Because of

cess, and came to own 350 acres of valuable his father's serious illness he was forced to and well improved land, thus occupying a leave school and returned home, where for position among the most prosperous and two years and a half he had charge of his well-to-do farmers of his section and day. father's business, and had half made up his He was a Mennonite in respect to his reli- mind to remain a merchant through life. gious views and attachments, and in politics However, these plans suffered a radical was a stanch supporter of Whig and Repub- change, for his father sold the business, and lican principles. our subject, in the spring of 1877, resumed

Isaac S. GrofF was born in Rockhill town- his studies, reading medicine with Dr. A. J. ship, August 13, 1834, grew to manhood Matthews, of Chalfont, until the fall of the there, and carried on merchant tailoring at same year, when he entered himself as a 250 BOOK OP BIOGRAPHIES

student at JefFerson Medical College, Phila- vania State Medical Society and American delphia, Pa. He graduated in 1880, having Medical Association. He is a member, taken a thorough three years' course, and at socially, of Doylestown Lodge, No. 245, I^odge, No. first located for the practice of his profession F. & A. M. ; Aquetong 193,

at Tradesville, a village three miles from I. O. O. P., and Lenape Council, No. 11 17, Doylestown, where he continued until 1886, Royal Arcanum. He is a Republican in his removing in that year to the county seat, political sympathies, and was a member of where he has lived and practiced ever since, the borough council three years. He was though his patients are to be found both prison physician of the county three years, there and in remote parts of the county. He and is now a member of the board of U. S.

is held in the highest esteem as a skilled and pension examining surgeons, having received thoroughly competent master of his calling, his appointment in August, 1897. He is a

and merits well the confidence that is reposed member and an active worker of the Re-

in him. He is regarded by all who have had formed Church of Doylestown. He has fully an occasion of employing his services as a developed in him the Christian virtues which

well-read, enterprising member of the medical are made still stronger with every passing

profession, who has at his command the latest year that sees him still practicing his profes-

methods in the treatment of diseases and the sion, for medical experience has the eflfect of requisite knowledge and ability to utilize making a man sympathetic, true and noble them with benefit. His unvarying good in every sense of the word. nature and pleasant manners have been large

factors of his popularity with all classes and the consequent size of his practice. The returns from his professional labors have "I^ATHAN HOUK, a prosperous and been large, and he has accumulated con- ==t progressive agriculturist of New I siderable property ; he lately built a fine -- V^ - Britain township, Bucks County, home on Court street, and is looked upon was born in Moore's, Montgomery County,

as one of the best citizens of Doylestown. in 1844, and is a son of John and Susan Dr. GrofF sought and obtained in marriage (Fell) Houk. the hand of Adelaide Grove, daughter of John Houk, the father of our subject, was Charles R. Grove, of New Britain township, born in Berks County, Pa., and when a Bucks County; the words that made them young man moved to Bucks County, where man and wife were spoken on November 16, he became a farm laborer. After continuing 1876. They have one son, Howard R., born at that occupation for some time there, he November 26, 1877. Our subject is a mem- moved to Montgomery County, and for ber of the Bucks County Medical Society, twenty-one years was engaged in tilling the and has taken a prominent part in its meet- soil near Moore's with much success. He ings. He is also a member of the Pennsyl- passed into the unknown beyond in 1892, ; ;

BUCKvS COUNTY 251

after living a long and useful life. He residing with our subject. This happy union was united in marriage with Susan Fell, has been blessed by the birth of eight chil- Walter whose death occurred in 1897, and they were dren, whose names are as follows : children, Susan who married Kate Lapp and the happy parents of four a record ; Elmer, of whom is as follows : Seneca, a farmer lives in Ivyland, Bucks County; John;

; that died in infancy. living near Doylestown, Bucks County Walter ; Mabel and two

Wilhelmina, the wife of Joel Harrow, a resi- In politics Mr. Houk is an unswerving sup- Republican dent of Montgomery County ; Nathan, the porter of the principles of the office. subject of this biographical sketch ; and party, but has never aspired to Joseph F., a well-known farmer, residing near Colmar, Montgomery County. Nathan Honk obtained as good an intellectual training as the public schools of his (^^Y^THONY H. SLOTTER. Among native township afforded, and was reared tjj the many prominent agriculturists upon his father's farm, with whom he lived y el l»\__^ who have contributed substantially until after his marriage at the age of twenty- to the material prosperity of Bedminster six years. He then located upon a farm. at township, and indeed it may be said of the Warrington, Bucks County, and there en- entire county, stands the worthy gentleman gaged in farming for a period of twenty-two whose well-known name begins this bio- years. After the demise of his father in graphical sketch. He is a worthy representa-

1892, he moved to the village of New Britain, tive of one of the prominent and pioneer where he has since resided, and owns a fine families of Bucks County, and is of German farm of 94 acres in the vicinity, which is in origin. He owns a rich and productive farm a high state of cultivation. Under his suc- consisting of 125 acres, handsomely situated cessful management many improvements in Bedminster township, in one of the best

have taken place, and he has carried on gen- farming communities in Bucks County ; in eral farming with good results. He is now addition to carrying on general farming, he practically living in retirement, performing also deals extensively in cattle, and is agent just the lighter duties of farm life. He is a for lyister's Fertilizer. This popular and man of excellent qualities, and is highly enterprising citizen was born on his present esteemed by a large circle of friends and farm February 14, 1855, and is a son of Jacob acquaintances in his neighborhood. and Leah (Hockman) Slotter, grandson of In 1870 Mr. Houk was joined in wedlock Anthony and Elizabeth (Idem) Slotter, and with Elizabeth Sellers, a native of Mont- great-grandson of Anthony Slotter. gomery township, Montgomery County, and The founder of this well-known and pros- a daughter of Philip and Susanna Sellers, the perous family in America,. Anthony Slotter, former of whom was a harness-maker of that the great-grandfather of our subject, came section. Mrs. Sellers is at the present time from Germany and settled in Bedminster ;; ;

252 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

township, Bucks County, Pa. , where he took successful. He was educated in the district up a tract of land and began farming. He schools of Bedminster township, and in 1843

was the father of two children, a son, Anthony, he left the homestead and went to Haycock and a daughter. Anthony Slotter, the grand- township, where he carried on farming and father of our subject, was born in Bedminster droving one year, and then moved to Tinicum

township. May 22, 1777, and died in 1825. township ; after farming there two years he His vocation was also that of a farmer, and bought a farm in the eastern part of Bedmin- he was one of the upright and progressive ster township, and lived there for a period of citizens of his community. He married eight in years ; 1854 Mr. Slotter sold his farm, Elizabeth Idem, who was born in this county, and one year later purchased of Joseph Fretz

and who died in 1 862 at the ripe old age of the farm now owned by our subject. He eighty-five years. They were members of the made many improvements upon the same,

Tohickon Ivutheran Church. Three children in 1 872 erecting a house and three years later

were born to them, namely : Mary, who died building the present barns. In 1884, Mr. June 21, 1877, aged sixty-four years; Jacob, Slotter retired from further active work, and

the father of our subject ; and John M., born is now enjoying a well-earned, peaceful repose

in 1817, and died in 1868. Anthony also from the labors of an honored and useful life.

worked with his father at teaming and freight- On April 7, 1842, he married L,eah Hockman, ing between Easton, Pa., and Philadelphia. who was born in Bedminster township August The maternal grandfather of our subject 24, 1823, and died January 9, 1886. They was Ulrich Hockman, who was a farmer all were blessed by a family of thirteen children,

his life in Bedminster township ; he married namely: William H., born August 5, 1842, a Miss Detweiler, and the following children also has his personal history in this Book of

were born to them : John, deceased, was a Biographies; Anna Maria, born March 23,

dealer in horses Jacob died young ; Barbara ; 1844, is the wife of A. A. Stover, and their married Jacob Rosenberger, and they live in son Harry is a prominent liveryman of

Bedminster township ; Annie was joined in Doylestown; Elizabeth H., born July 22, marriage with John Rohr, now deceased 1845, died December i, 1862; Mary Ann,

Ulrich, deceased ; Aaron, a blacksmith and born November 29, 1846, died December 4,

farmer of Bedminster township ; Elizabeth, 1862; I^eah H., born June 25, 1848, is the deceased; Ivcah, the mother of our subject; wife of Milton Crouthamel Jacob T., bom ;

Abraham, deceased ; Peter married I/izzie April 17, 1850, first married Emma Kerns, Bergis, and they reside in Doylestown, Pa. and upon her death married I^izzie Cadwalla- and two that died in infancy. der, and they live at Lahaska, Pa. ; Martha Jacob Slotter, our subject's father, was born H., born July 27, 1852, married I,ewis A. on his father's farm in Bedminster township, Ott, a harnessmaker of Rockhill township October and farming 31, 1815, was his life's Anthony H., the subject of this sketch ; John vocation, in which occupation he was very H., born March 7, 1857, died March 15, 1858 ;

JOSEPH R. COMLY. ,

BUCKS COUNTY 255

Aaron H., born January 27, 1859, was joined and is now engaged in teaching in Bedmin- in the bonds of wedlock with Amanda Moyer ster township; William N., born October 17, Belle, born and he resides in Philadelphia ; Abraham 1882, died June 26, 1885 ; Maria

lyincoln, born vSeptember 13, 1861, married February 15, 1885; Lillie May and Carrie

Josephine Flack, and. he is proprietor of the May, twins, born March 7, 1888,—the former

Doylestown-Carversville Stage route, and died February 14, 1890; Leah A., born De- Luther, born resides in Mechanicsville ; Barbara Ann, born cember 17, 1891 ; and Jacob

August 10, 1863, was married to Aaron Lan- June 9, 1898. Politically^ our subject is a and, although he does not dis, a farmer of Buckingham township ; and strong Republican, to lend Reuben H., born February 15, 1865, who was seek public office, he is always ready wedded to Ella Crouthamel, and he is farm- his support in favor of any measure that tends ing on the old Blotter homestead. to advance his community and county. Fra- Anthony H. Slotter remained on the home- ternally, he is a member of the K. of G. E. stead during his younger days, assisting his Castle No. 248, of Bedminster. In religious father in the duties about the farm and attend- views he and his family are members of the ing the district school; in 1884, when his Lutheran Church at Sellersville. father retired, he took charge of the home-

stead, and has successfully carried on general

farifiing up to the present time ; our subject widely known also carries on da:irying, owning a large herd OSEPH R. COMLY, a representative citizen of Bucks of cattle, some of which he fattens for the and market. Mr. Slotter also handles all kinds County, Pa., of which he served as until is connected of farming machinery, and is agent for sheriff from 1887 1890, successful business enter- Lister's Fertilizers, and his last year's sales with one of the of Yardley, being amounted to over seventy-five tons. Mr. prises of the borough senior member of the well-known firm of Slotter is an enterprising, progressive, and dealers in coal and lumber. upright citizen, enjoying the respect and Comly & Aaron, are also connected good-will of a multitude of acquaintances. Our subject and partner in Mercer County, N. Mr. Slotter chose for his life companion with a flouring mill J. Yardley is a native Sarah Amanda Nace, and they were wedded This valuable citizen of County, N. the date of his birth December 21, 1876; she was born in Sellers- of Mercer J., 1840, and he is a son of Jona- ville, Pa., November 6, 1853, and is a daugh- being July 9, and Lucy E. (Reading) Comly, and ter of Philip and Elizabeth Nace. Mr. Nace than T. grandson of Joshua and Amelia (Van Zant) is now deceased. A family of eight children blessed the home of Mr. and Mrs. Slotter, Comly. Comly, the grandfather of our sub- namely: I/izzie Olive, born September 29, Joshua reared in Byberry town- born December 25, 1879, ject, was born and 1877 ; Theodore N., Philadelphia County, Pa. Although attended school at West Chester State Normal, ship, 256 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

educated to agricultural pursuits, at an early in 1863 at the age of fifty-two years. She age he took up carpentering, whicli occupa- was the mother of five children, who were tion he made his life's vocation. He served known as follows : Jonathan, who died when in the second conflict against England, and, entering manhood; William, who died in in early boyhood R., whose name shortly after his return from the war, died ; Joseph

Wilmington, Del. As a result of his mar- heads this personal history ; Harriet ; and riage with Amelia Van Zant, three children Edward, who is a highly esteemed citizen of

were reared, as follows : Jonathan T., the Yardley. Jonathan T. Comly was one of the

father of our subject ; Harriet ; and Eliza- active politicians of his community, and beth. firmly advocated the principles of the Whig Jonathan T. Comly was also born in By- party, and, when that party was abandoned, berry township, Philadelphia County, where he, as did the majority of his party, joined he remained during his early boyhood. At the ranks of the Republican organization.

sixteen he left the parental roof and moved Mr. Comly was an intelligent and well-read to Middletown township, Bucks County, citizen, a man of considerable influence, and where, for a period of five years, he served was held in high esteem by a large circle of an apprenticeship to the miller's trade, which acquaintances.

occupation he chose as a means of obtaining Joseph R. Comly prepared himself intellec- a livelihood. He then located at Lambert- tually in the common schools of his native

ville, N. J., where he remained but a short township and in a private school at Trenton

time, when he became a resident of Mercer and at Pennington, N. J. Upon leaving County, the same state. There, in connec- school, for three years during the Civil War, tion with following his trade, he operated a our subject served as sutler's clerk and was farm for a period of thirty years; at the at the front of the army most of the time. expiration of that time he returned to Bucks After peace had been restored throughout the County and settled in Yardley. During the land, our subject returned to his home in Civil War, in 1864, when the Union was Yardley; after spending two years in the hard pressed for soldiers to put down the milling business there, he went to Philadel- Rebellion, Mr. Comly offered his services, phia, whence after two years he returned to but, after being in the army for a year, he Yardley, where he again took to milling, contracted a disease from which he died, pursuing that business for a period of twenty- when aged fifty-four years. He was joined two years. In 1891 our subject entered into in marriage with Lucy E. Reading, a daugh- partnership with Irvin Aaron, and under the ter of Elisha and Ann (Reading) Reading, firm name of Comly & Aaron they carry on and a direct descendant of John Reading, a large coal and lumber business; the pro- who emigrated from England in 1685, and prietors are well known throughout the coun- whose son was once Governor of New Jersey. ty, and, being men of untiring energy and Our subject's mother was called from earth of hustling ability, have secured a large and :

BUCKS COUNTY 257

paying patronage. These gentlemen are also spent many years ; later he became a resident interested in a flouring mill in Mercer County, of North East, Maryland, and lived there a Philadelphia N. J., which alone yields them a handsome number of years. Returning to income. he lived in retirement; later he moved to In 1877 Mr. Comly was wedded to Anna Colmar and spent a few years, and his latter Smith, a daughter of William Smith, a prom- days were spent with his son, who resided at inent citizen of Yardley, and this union has Sellersville, Pa. He was the father of four been blessed by two children : Edward and children, who were named as follows : Eliza,

Mabel. Fraternally, our subject is a member Rebecca, Catherine, and Jacob. of Uncas Lodge, No. 426, I. O. O. F. of Yard- Jacob Zane, the father of our subject, was ley; Howard Encampment, No. 33, Phila- born in Montgomery County, Pa., November trade, hav- delphia ; and Bristol Lodge, No. 25, A. Y. M. 25, 1825 ; he was a blacksmith by

He is also president of the Yardley Building ing served an apprenticeship to that trade at & Loan Association. In 1887, Mr. Comly Wilmington, Del. He followed his trade in was elected sheriflF of Bucks County, which Philadelphia a number of years, and upon office he retained until 1890 ; he is now serv- his marriage became a resident of Sellersville, ing the third year of his first term as justice where he purchased a portion of the Schlich- of the peace. His portrait is shown on ter farm, and there pursued the vocation of another page of this work. an agriculturist until 1875, when he retired from the more active duties of life. Mr. Zane was recognized as one of the progressive farmers of his community, and was held in high esteem as a citizen and neighbor. His "YSLER J. ZANE, justice of the peace of Sellersville, Fa., is one of the en- wife was Aquilla M. Schlichter, born July 8, terprising and well-to-do business 1830, a daughter of Thomas Schlichter, a Sellersville, and they men of the borough and has for the past twelve prominent citizen of of the following children years been successfully engaged in house became the parents deceased; Thomas S., a painting. He was born in the above town Jacob and Josephine, resident of Philadelphia; Jonathan F. resides September 4, 1859, and is a son of Jacob and and Hysler whose name Aquilla M. (Schlichter) Zane, and a grandson at Lansdale, Pa.; J., personal history. Our subject's of Jonathan antl Catherine (Conver) Zane. heads this life 1882, and Jonathan Zane was a native of Montgomery father passed from this July 29, his wife seven years later, April County, Pa., and during his younger days was joined by the age of fifty-eight. Mr. and learned the trade of a wheelwright, which 29, 1889, at Mrs. Zane were active members and supporters was his life's vocation. He was married to Lutheran Church; in politics, he was Catherine Conver, who was born at Hatfield, of the Democrat,. was actively interested in Montgomery County, Pa.; soon after his mar- a solid school afiairs, and served as a school director riage he moved to Philadelphia, where he :

258 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

of East Rockhill township a number of with Mary ly. Walz, a daughter of Rev. Fred- years. erick Walz, of Sellersville, and this union children, Hysler J. Zane possesses a good education, has been blessed by four namely

which he received in the public schools of Hysler J., Jr.; Charlotte and Frederick are

Sellersville ; he served an apprenticeship to twins, and the former is deceased ; and Robert

the trade of a carriage trimmer after leaving T. Our subject is a member of the I. O. O.

school, and followed that trade under Thomas F., Lodge No. 658, of which he is secretary

B. Deitz, of Sellersville, for a period of ten and representative; and is scribe and a repre-

years. In 1886 our subject began the voca- sentative of Camp No. 252, I. O. O. F. tion of a painter, which occupation he has continued up to the present time. Politically,

he is a stanch Democrat, an earnest worker, and has contributed much toward the success ^/^iILLIAM WIIvSON, a retired paper of his chosen party in his neighborhood. In V^ V> manufacturer of Bristol, Pa., who 1 890 he was appointed justice of the peace by was senior member of the firm of Wilson &

Governor Beaver to fill the vacancy caused Fenemore, which sold out in 1 892, since which by the death of Henry C. Moore; he is now time our subject has been living in retire-

serving his second term by election to that ment, is recognized as one of the most worthy

ofSce. In 1890 he served the unexpired term and esteemed citizens of that borough. He is of chief burgess of Sellersville caused by the a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Peak) Wilson, removal of H. C. Stout. He has also served and was born near Manchester, England, the

as clerk of the town council since 1891, and date of his birth being October 17, 1830. is the present incumbent of that office. He Our subject's parents, both of whom were is also secretary of the Sellersville Volunteer natives of Manchester, England, immigrated

Fire Company and was one of its founders. to the United States in 1830, first settling He is secretary of the board of health, secre- in Philadelphia, where they remained until tary of the Sellersville Building Company, 1850, when they became residents of New and Sellersville Improvement Company, and York City. Later they returned to Phila- a director of the Sellersville Building & L,oan delphia, where our subject's father died, in Association. He writes deeds, wills, and set- 1879, aged seventy years. Mr. Wilson, while tles estates, and his varied duties are quite residing in England, was engaged in the sufficient to keep him busy at all times. Mr. manufacture of cotton cloth, and owned a Zane is one of the leading citizens of Sellers- large mill, and employed many hands; he ville, commands the respect and good-will of successfully carried on that line of business the entire community, and takes an active until 1827, when a general panic prevailed interest in all enterprises which tend to bene- throughout England, and he was forced to fit his township and county. the wall. Two years later he came to this In 1883 Mr. Zane was united in marriage country, and settled in Philadelphia, where BUCKS COUNTY 259

he began the manufacture of shoeblacking lyodge No, 187, F. & A. M., and Hancock

and matches ; later he engaged in work on Lodge, I. O. O. F., both of Philadelphia;

similar lines in New York City, where he Knights of Friendship of Bristol ; and be-

did an extensive business. The mother of longs to the Baker Post No. 8, G. A. R., of

our subject entered the world of rest in 1 874. Philadelphia. Mr. Wilson chose for his life William Wilson was reared in Philadel- companion Mary M. Bannon of Philadelphia, phia, and received his intellectual training in and they were happily united in marriage in

the public schools of that city; at the age of 1 866. Mr. Wilson in all respects stands high

twenty-one years, as a means of obtaining a in the estimation of his fellow- citizens ; his livelihood, he began the manufacture of wall good judgment and unswerving integrity paper on a very small scale. He was very make him a leader among men. Both he successful in this line of business, and in and his devoted wife have the esteem and

1882 moved to Bristol, Pa., a more suitable good-will of all who know them. They are

location; through his successful management first and foremost in all good works, and

the business was greatly increased ; later their influence is widely felt. he entered into partnership with Francis Fenemore, and the business was carried on under the firm name of Wilson & Fenemore. They had a large factory built by the Bristol DWIN M. BUNTING, a prominent and Improvement Company, and gave employ- industrious citizen of Doylestown, ment to a large number of hands, the annual Pa., who has served in the capacity of stew- output amounting to $500,000. In 1892, our ard of the Bucks County Almshouse since

subject and Mr. Fenemore sold out to the 1894, was born in Bensalem township, this

National Wall Paper Association of New county, August 25, 1847, and is a son of York City, of which Mr. Wilson is a large Joseph and I^avina (Kessler) Bunting, and stockholder. Mr. Wilson is a philanthropic grandson of Solomon Bunting. and public-spirited gentleman, actively sup- Our subject's grandfather was a native of porting all public enterprises which tend to Bristol township, this county, but spent the benefit his town and fellow-townsmen, and greater part of his active days in Bensalem contributes largely to all charitable purposes. township, where he followed the vocation of In 1862, when the battle of Antietam was an agriculturist. His latter days were spent fought, our subject aided in organizing an in Philadelphia, where he passed from this emergency company known as Co. I, 9th life in 1883, at the age of seventy-seven

Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf, of which he was first years. He was an old-line Whig in politics, lieutenant. In 1 863, when General I^ee again but upon the formation of the Republican invaded Pennsylvania, our subject went out party he joined the ranks of the latter organ- with Co. F, 4th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf ization. In his religious views he was a Fraternally, Mr. Wilson is a member of member of the Society of Friends. He was : ;

26o BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

the father of three daughters and three sons, In March, 1871, our subject was united in one of whom was Joseph, the father of our the bonds of matrimony with Ellen Powell, subject, who was born in Philadelphia County, a native of Bensalem township, this county,

Pa., in 1 82 1. His life was spent mostly in and two children blessed this union, namely Bristol, Middletown and Bensalem townships, Leslie and Bertha. where he followed the occupation of a farmer until 1889, in which year his death occurred.

He was quite successful in his life's vocation, and ranked among the foremost farmers of DWIN JOHNSON. Farming has been this county. Politically, he was an ardent the sole occupation of our subject Republican. He was joined in marriage since his early manhood, and that he has with I,avina Kessler, and they were the succeeded so well in his favorite occupation parents of three sons and four daughters, all is due to his industrious and untiring efforts. of whom are prosperous and well-to-do citi- His homestead is handsomely situated in zens in the various localities in which they Upper Makefield township, where he was reside. born June 14, 1852 ; his parents are Richard Edwin M. Bunting acquired a good educa- and Elizabeth (Hampton) Johnson. tion in the district schools of his native town- Richard Johnson was born at Center ship, and his leisure hours were spent labor- Bridge, Bucks County, and upon moving to ing upon his father's farm. He was engaged Upper Makefield township located on our in the tilling of the soil in his native town- subject's present farm ; there he continued ship and in Middletown township until the the vocation of an agriculturist until 1877, spring of 1894, when he entered upon the when he went to Centerville ; there he pur- duties of steward of the Bucks County chased a farm where he remained until death Almshouse, to which ofBce he had been claimed him, which was April 5, 1878. His elected the preceding year. He has held that wife was a native of this county and a position to the present time, and the duties daughter of Jqseph and Rebecca (Quinby) of the office are being honestly and faithfully Hampton ; they became the proud parents of performed. a family of fourteen children, namely Mr. Bunting is a Republican in politics, Wilmer, after the death of his first wife. Belle and votes uniformly and conscientiously with Blieler, married Alice Hoffman, and they his party. He is very popular in his town- reside at North Wales ; Joseph married Ella ship and county, and in 1880, 1881 and 1882 Vanartsdalen, both now deceased; Edwin, was elected supervisor of Bensalem township. our subject ; Sarah is the wife of Dr. Andrew He has also been delegated to county con- A. Wemmell, and they reside in Brooklyn, ventions. Socially, Mr. Bunting is a member N. Y.; Clara is the wife of Stephen Carver, a of Bristol Ivodge, No. 25, F. & A. M.; and blacksmith of Centerville, Pa.; Rachael mar- the Hulmeville Lodge, No. 422, I. O. O. F. ried William Ramsey, both now deceased

ZENO W. WEIERBACH. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 263

Anna is the wife of Heston Smith, a farmer lican, and has held the oiSce of school

of Pineville, Pa. ; Frank, director of Upper Makefield township several ; Quinby, deceased deceased; Martha married Robert Siddall, years. now deceased, and formed a second alliance with Frank Hogate, —they reside at I^ansdale, Pa. John I,ivezey married Helen Siddall, he ; — ENO W. WEIERBACH. Of the rep- is a bookkeeper and resides in Philadelphia resentative and flourishing farmers Clarence, who is a farmer living near Yard- of this section of the Keystone ley, Pa., married Ethel Wollery; Albert S.j State who have contributed- largely toward who married Katie Koch, is a painter by its prosperity and who'have been intimately

trade and resides near Centerville, Pa. ; and connected with its advancement and progress, one that died in infancy. Our subject's none take a more prominent part than the mother formed a second marriage with Wil- gentleman whose- name heads this brief no-

liam Gary, now deceased ; she now resides in tice, and whose success in life is attributable Philadelphia. to his own efforts and perseverance. As a The youthful days of our subject were representative of the agricultural class of spent working on his father's farm aud Bucks County, we take pleasure in present-

attending the district schbol whenever the ing a few, facts connected with the life of

opportunity presented itself. . Arriving at Zeno W. Weierbach, who is descended from manhood, he took possession of the hoine-; one of the pioneer families of this state. The

stead, and has since resided there, carrying home of our subject is situated in Springfield

on general farming ; his farm consists of 87 township, near the village of Pleasant Val- acres of land, upon which he has made many ley, and in one of -the best, farming commu-

improvements, and it now ranks among the nities in the county ; his farm, which consists

best in the community. Our subject is pop- of 127 acres, ranks among the best in the

ular among his fellowrcitizens, and is re- C9unty, the land being. rich and fertile, and

garded a good neighbor and 'citizen. it. possesses a large and substantial stone barn

Mr. Johnson was married. February 10, and many out-buildings. Our subject was 1876, to Sarah Emma.Goslin, a native of born on a farm he owns, which adjoins the Upper Makefield township and. a daughter of one where he now resides, the date of his

Charles and Sarah (Gregg) Goslin ; Mr. Gos- birth being July 15, 1845. He is a son of lin resides with our subject, but his wife is Adam and Eliza (Weierbach) Weierbach, deceased. One child has been born to our grandson of John Henry and Maria (Johnson) subject and wife, Annabel G. , who resides at Weierbach, and great-grandson of Isaac and home. Mr. Johnson and his family are Anna (Frey) Weierbach. prominent members and liberal supporters This old and honored family of Bucks of the Society of Friends at Dolington. County was founded by the great-great-grand-

Politically, Mr. Johnson is an active Repub- father of our subject, Nicholas Weierbach 14 ;

264 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

who was born and reared in Switzerland, and its Master, in 1895. He was well known wlio came to America and settled in Spring- throughout the township, and was greatly re- field township, this county, during the colon- spected by his fellow-countrymen. Relig- ial days. In 1754 he purchased a tract of land iously, he was a member and liberal supporter of Conrad Reizley, who had bought the same of the Reformed Church, and was also trustee directly from the Penns. There he spent the of the same. His wife was Eliza Weierbach, rest of his life engaged in farming. His son, a daughter of Anthony Weierbach, and she Isaac Weierbach, had the homestead which passed from this earth in 1872, at the age of is now owned by Aaron Krammer ; Isaac was fifty-one years. Their children were named born April 10, 1730, and died March 11, as follows: Emma, the wife of Rev. J. J.

1805. He had a sister that was stolen by the Rush ; Zeno W., the subject of this personal

Indians. Isaac Weierbach was married to history ; Sabina was married to Llewellyn

Anna Frey, who was born February 24, 1741, Knechel ; Ralph was wedded to Alice Eby

and who died January 15, 1838. Of their Sarah, Maria and Eliza died young ; William children, John Henry was born on the home- was united in marriage with Annie Worces- stead in Springfield township, September 17, ter, and Albert, who was married to Annie 1779, and his days were spent pursuing the Miller. vocation of a farmer, residing in Springfield Zeno W. Weierbach possesses a good edu- township all his life. He was a very promi- cation which he received in the schools of his nent man of his day, having held many town- native township, and his early manhood was ship offices and was colonel in the state mili- spent in teaching school, teaching five terms

tia. As a result of his marriage with Maria in all ; he is a fluent spedker of both Eng- Johnson a large family of children was born, lish and German. In 1876 our subject all of whom were reared to manhood except purchased a part of his father's farm, and the eldest, who died in infancy. Those who from time to time has added to his original

grew to maturity were : John, Jesse, Henry, purchase until he now owns 127 acres of Susan, Kate, Adam, David, Mary, Daniel and highly improved land. In addition to carry- Aaron. ing on general farming, our subject deals Adam Weierbach was born on his father's largely in cattle and in hogs, keeping from

farm in Springfield township March 29, 18 17, 70 to 100 head of milch cows and beef cattle, and was reared to agricultural pursuits, which fattening the latter for the market. In 1876, he made his life's vocation. In early manhood Mr. Weierbach erected a beautiful residence, he bought the Joseph Amey farm, which con- which is built of the granite obtained from sisted of 66 acres, which he greatly improved the quarry on his farm ; he also built the lar- by not only placing the land under a high gest and most substantial barn in the town- of state cultivation, but by erecting an addi- ship, which is 73 feet long and 59 feet wide, tion to the house. Mr. Weierbach resided and contains a basement, that can shelter upon this farm until his spirit was called to much stock. ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 265

Mr. Weierbach chose for his life compan- Benjamin, a minister of the Methodist Epis- ion Olive Moyer, a daughter of Joseph Moyer, copal Church ; Margaret, the relict of Jacob and they are the parents of the following Funk, resides in Philadelphia ; Catherine, the

children : Xerxes, 1 born May 2, 877 ; Dona- wife of George Levers, of Hilltown town-

tus, bom August 7, 1878, died March 12, 1879 ship; John; Henry, now deceased, married

Calvin, born January 26, i88q, died January Catherine High ; Maria, now deceased, mar-

3, 1881 ; Telephes, born September 3, 1882; ried John Cuffel, who is also deceased ; Bar- and Gwynett, born August 12, 1885. Our bara, deceased, married Nathan Stahl, also subject has served as auditor, school director deceased; Lydia, married John Kline; and and six years as assessor. Fraternally, Mr. Elizabeth, deceased, who married Hiram Weierbach is a member of Lodge No. 469, F. Yeakel.

& A. M. ; Chapter No. 203, R. A. M., of Allen- John Albright, the father of our subject, town, and is a past master of the blue lodge. was born in Hilltown township, and was Our subject is a representative farmer of Bucks reared upon the farm. For many years he County, and is highly respected by his neigh- was a commission merchant and farmer, buy- bors and acquaintances for his uprightness, ing up produce in his vicinity and disposing

intelligence and kindliness of manner. We of it in Philadelphia. Politically, he was a take pleasure in announcing that Mr. Weier- stanch Republican, whilst in religious views bach's portrait is shown on a page in prox- he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal

imity. Church of Leidytown, Pa. His first marriage was with Mary Bryan, by whom he had

twelve children, namely : Daniel, a manufac-

^HARES ALBRIGHT, a well known turer of ice in Carbon County, Pa. ; Amanda,

produce commission merchant and deceased ; Enos, a carpenter living at Allen- Is a leading agriculturibt of Hilltown town, Pa. ; Edwin, deceased ; Phares, the sub- township, Bucks County, was born in that ject of this biographical record; John, a farmer of Hilltown the township, September 17, 185 1, on the old township; Emma, wife

Daniel Albright place, and is a son of John of James Rice, a grocer of Philadelphia; Ade- and Mary (Bryan) Albright. line, the wife of William Yoder, of Philadel- phia Hiram, a resident of Hilltown His grandfather was Daniel Albright, who ; township was born in Germany, but came to America Lincoln, a policeman in Philadelphia; Ella, with the parental family in infancy, locating the wife of Mahlon Keller, a merchant of in Lehigh County. He was the iirst of that Perkasie, Bucks County ; and Harvey, who is family to settle in Bucks County, and he fol- engaged in the ice business at Weissport, Pa. lowed agricultural pursuits in Hilltown town- After the demise of his wife in the spring of ship thereafter until his death. He was the 1877, he formed a second union with Amanda father of the following children: Charles, a Fretz, a native of this county, and two chil- commission merchant of Philadelphia; Rev. dren were born to them, as follows: Warren, 266 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

who died young ; and Wesley, who resides at Emma ; Chester ; L,izzie ; Ella ; and Amanda. home. Politically, Mr. Albright has always been ac-

Phares Albright obtained his education in tive in politics and is an unswerving Repub-

the public schools of his native township, lican ; he served as town auditor at one time, and worked for his father until he was twenty- and in the spring of 1890 was appointed jus- three years of age, when he entered the realms tice of the peace, in which capacity he has of matrimony and embarked in business on since faithfully served. Religiously, he and his own account. He went into the produce his family attend the Methodist Episcopal commission business, purchasing butter, eggs, Church. and poultry, and shipping them to Philadel- phia markets. In 1876, he purchased his present home, known as the Broad Street -ONATHAN A. TWINING is a pros- Hotel, and 16 acres of land of William Yoder, perous citizen of Wrightstown town- and has since engaged in general farming in ship, Bucks County, Pa., and a worthy connection with his other business. Since representative of an early pioneer family. that time he has purchased additional land He is engaged in farming and stock-raising from time to time as his means justified, and and is recognized as one of the enterprising he now owns some very valuable property- and progressive members of his community. has been He deservedly prosperous in his He was born on the homestead in Northamp- different lines of business, for his success did ton township, this county, September 10, not come without a hard and continuous strug- 1852, and is a son of Cyrus B. and Sally gle, but energy and industry, well-directed, (Atkinson) Twining. will win in the end and reap a just reward for The grandfather of our subject was Jacob their owner. He is a man of strict integrity Twining, who was an extensive farmer of and honesty, and has won friends wherever Northampton township, where he resided all he is known by his straightforward methods his life; he was married to Priscilla Buck- of conducting business. man, who was descended from an old and May IS, Mr. Albright 187s, was united in influential family of Bucks County. marriage with Tillie Smith, a daughter of Cyrus B. Twining, the father of our sub- Samuel and Frances (Yost) Smith, both of ject, was born in Northampton township whom are now deceased. Mr. Smith was a September 27, 1827, and the years of his shoemaker of Leidytown. Our subject and early life were spent in farming on his father's his beloved wife are the happy parents of homestead, and farming continued to be his eleven children, as follows : George W., who chief occupation throughout his entire life. married Annie King of New Britain, Pa.; Ad- In 1853, he became a resident of Wrightstown die S., the wife of Charles Smith, a carpenter township, where he bought the farm now of Hilltown township; Anna Bella; Dora; resided upon by Wilmer A. Twining; he Ida; John, whose death occurred in infancy; farmed there until 1866, when he bought ; s

BUCKS COUNTY 267

another farm in Wrightstown township, and Politically, Mr. Twining is a strong Repub- lived there until death claimed him, which lican, and has done much toward the success was February 14, 1892. His wife was Sally of the party in his district ; he is now serv- M. Atkinson, who was born in Wrightstown ing as president of the Wrightstown board of township January 19, 1825, and they were school directors. He is a director of the blessed by the birth of six children, namely : Danboro lyive-Stock Company ; and is also Jonathan A., the subject of this personal his- a member of the Pineville Protective Horse tory ; Nellie T., the wife of Stephen K. Association. Mr. Twining was wedded Jan-

Cooper of Wrightstown township ; Wilmer uary 15, 1874, to Belle Warner, who was

A., whose biography also appears in this born in Wrightstown township, January 19, book ; Thomas O. died, aged three years 1850, and is a daughter of Jonathan and Anna

Willie died in his infancy ; and Frank, who Maria (Thackery) Warner. Mrs. Twining' died at the age of five years. Politically, parents are both natives of Upper Makefield

Cyrus B. Twining was a believer in the township, this county ; Mr. Warner is a principles of the Republican party, and was farmer and resides in the village of Wrights- kept in office as school director for a period town. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Twining of seventeen years by successive elections. has been blessed by one child, F. Cyrus, born

Religiously, he and his wife were members June IS, 1879. of the Society of Friends. Jonathan A. Twining was intellectually trained in the common schools and in the Doylestown Seminary, and had a thorough R. WIIvIvIAM MARTIN, a prac- practical training in agricultural work on his titioner of medicine standing in father's farm. He farmed on the homestead Ji the foremost ranks of his profes- some eight years, when he and his father sion, enjoys a large and lucrative practice in went to Philadelphia and engaged in busi- Bristol and its vicinity, of which he is one ness there ; ten years later he returned to of the leading and progressive citizens. He

Wrightstown township and took up his is a son of William L,. and Lucy H. (Haines) present farm of 50 acres. He also owns Martin, and was born in Rancocas, Burling-

4 acres at Wycombe Station, and 75 acres ton County, N. J., May 4, 1868. in the old homestead. He is engaged ex- His grandfather, Thomas Martin, was a

is tensively in stock-raising, but farming native of Chester County, Pa. , where he was his principal occupation. Our subject takes engaged in agricultural pursuits throughout an active interest in all public measures that his entire life. William 1,. Martin, the tend to the advancement and prosperity of the father of our subject, was also born in Ches* community at large ; he is a good, upright, ter County, near I^ondon Grove, and was intelligent citizen, and enjoys the respect educated in the Uniontown Academy, after and esteem of a host of acquaintances. which he read medicine under the tutelage ;:

268 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

of Dr. Murphy, of Parkesburg, Chester makes a specialty of diseases of the ear, nose,

County. He was graduated from the Jeflfer- and throat, of which he has made a thorough

son Medical College, of Philadelphia, in study. He is a member of the Bucks County 1852, after which he entered upon a practice Medical Society; the Burlington County

at Rancocas, Burlington County, N. J., and (N. J.) Medical Association; Pennsylvania became one of the most prominent and able Medical Society; the Cooper Medical Club

physicians of that locality. He has been of Camden, N. J. ; and the American Medical engaged in practice there from that day to Association. He is of a pleasant and genial this, and no man stands higher in public disposition, and since his residence in Bristol

esteem, both in public and private life. has made many friends.

Religiously, he is a member of the Friends' He was united in the holy bonds of wed-

Meeting. He was united in matrimonial lock October 8, 1891, with Alice D. Maule, bonds with Lucy H. Haines, a daughter of a daughter of John C. and Charlotte W.

Ezra Haines, of Rancocas, N. J., who owned Maule, of Bristol, and they are the proud a farm there and followed the occupation of parents of two bright and interesting chil- cooper. a This happy union resulted in the dren, namely: Eleanor M. ; and W. Harold. birth of two sons and two daughters, namely Religiously, they are members of the Society Emlen, a druggist of Bristol and a graduate of Friends. of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy; Dr. William, in whom the interest of this

sketch centers ; Annie, who lives at home ILUAM FENTON GEIIv, deceased, and Phebe. w.who was the foremost undertaker Dr. William Martin obtained his intellec- and cabinetmaker of Doylestown, was pos- tual training in the Moorestown Academy at sessed of considerable mechanical genius and Moorestown, N. after which he spent J., one could turn his hand to any line of work with year in the Philadelphia College of Phar- good results. He was a man who commanded macy. He then read medicine under the the respect and esteem of all with whom he direction of his father, and took a three was acquainted, and his death, which oc- years' course in the Jefferson Medical College, curred April I, 1898, was a cause for general from which he was graduated in 1889. The commiseration by his many friends and his following summer was spent in the Frank- devoted family. He was interred in the New ford Asylum for the Insane, where he was Britain Cemetery, and was followed to the a member of the staff of physicians, and then grave by scores of friends, who wished to pay for one year he was on the medical staff at a final tribute to one who was a kind and the Cooper Hospital at Camden, N. after J., loving husband, a good neighbor and a true which, in the fall of 1890, he located in friend. Bristol. He immediately sprang into favor Mr. Geil was a son of George and Lydia and acquired a large general practice, but N. (Kephart) Geil, and was born in Doyles-

JOHN L. ATKINSON. BUCKS COUNTY 271

town township, Bucks County, January 31, a granddaughter of James Flack, Sr., who was 1843. George Geil was a native of Bucks a native and a life-long resident of Doyles-

County, where he spent his entire life in town township. He was a very prosperous agricultural pursuits. He was one of the farmer, and followed that occupation until good, substantial men of his township, and his death, in 1864, at the age of eighty years.

was quite successful in his business affairs. James Flack, Jr., was born in Doylestown

He was united in matrimonial bonds with township, March 4, 18 18, and he too was en-

Lydia N. Kephart, who was also a native of gaged in tilling the soil all of his life ; he

this county, and they reared one son, our and his good wife still reside on the farm in subject. Doylestown township. Politically, Mr. Geil William Fenton Geil was reared on the was a consistent Republican. Socially, he farm and obtained his intellectual training in was quite a prominent figure, being an active

the public schools at Pebble Hill. He con- worker in the following orders : Doylestown

tinued to perform the duties of farm life on I/odge, No. 193, I. O. O. F.; the Manichora his father's estate until 1876, when he moved Club, a social organization ; the German Aid

to Doylestown. Being a natural born me- Society ; and St. Tammany Castle, Knights chanic, he followed the occupation of a car- of the Golden Eagle. penter and cabinetmaker, at which line of work he acquired great skill and created a demand for his services. Having met with

such success, he decided to add undertaking •OHN ly. ATKINSON, deceased, was to his business in 1882. He also enlarged descended from an old arid highly- his shop, added steam powfer, and did a large respected family of Bucks County, and lucrative business until the time of his and was the fifth generation of the Atkin- death. He was a man of high principles, son family that resided on the old home- well versed on the current topics of the day, stead in Upper Makefield township, where

and conscientiously performed the duties of a our subject spent his entire life. The date loyal citizen. American In 1876 he became of his birth was January 23, 1813, and he foreman on the Philadelphia & Reading was a son of John and Elizabeth (Harding) Railroad, but as he found the work unsuited Atkinson, grandson of John Atkinson, and to him he continued in that capacity but a great-grandson of William Atkinson. short time. John Atkinson, the father of our subject, January 25, 1866, he was joined in hy- was also born on the homestead in Upper meneal bonds with Phebe A. Flack, a woman Makefield township, and his vocation was whose many excellent traits of character that of a farmer. He was twice married, his have won for her the love and friendship of first wife being Mary Atkinson, and his second a large circle of acquaintances. She is a wife being Elizabeth Harding. As a result daughter of and Elizabeth James Flack, and of his second union, a family of nine children ; ; ; ;

272 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

was born, namely : Jacob, deceased, wedded Haynes ; Elizabeth, the wife of Richard

to Elizabeth Daniels, who is now living in Bridge; Henry died in 1877; Sarah; Matilda Shelby County, Iowa, and who has attained was wedded to John Stockdale of Bustleton,

the age of eighty-two years ; Mary, deceased Pa. ; Charles B. resides at Holmesburg, Pa.

Eliza, deceased ; Amy, deceased I/., our Edward lives at Lexington, Mass.; Emily ; John subject; Wilson, who died young; Thomas was joined in marriage with Harry Knowles

C. , deceased ; Abraham resides in Bucking- of Bustleton, Pa.; Harriet is the wife of

ham township ; and Ann, the wife of William Thomas Jones of Byberry, Pa. ; and Anna Y. Daniels, a tobacco merchant of Cape Cod. was married to John Wesley, also of Byberry,

John L,. Atkinson was intellectually trained Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Atkinson were the parents in the schools of his native township, and at of two children, twins, —Adela, who died aged the age of nineteen years, upon the death of eighteen months, and Almeda, deceased, who his father, took charge of the homestead, was the wife of George Harrison, an editor

which he operated until death claimed him. of Hulmeville, Pa. Mr. Atkinson was a di- The homestead consists of 91 acres of land, rector of the Newtown Bank twenty years

upon which our subject made improvements politically, he was a strong Republican ; and he was well known throughout his native in his religious attachments he was an active county, and commanded the respect and good- member of the Society of Friends. Mrs. will of many acquaintances. Atkinson now resides on the old homestead, Mr. Atkinson was united in marriage June surrounded by her many warm friends, who

19, 1856, with Margaret Raylman, born March greatly respect her ; she is a member of the 27, 1836, and a daughter of Eli D. and Mary Society of Friends. In connection with this Ann (Johnson) Raylman, the former a native sketch, we present on a nearby page a por- of Upper Makefield township, and the latter trait of Mr. Atkinson, executed from a pho- of Bristol township. Mrs. Atkinson's father tograph taken when he was about fifty years was a son of Henry Raylman, who came to old. this country with his father from Germany and settled in Upper Makefield township, where he ever afterwards resided. Eli D. ENRY S. BEIDLER, the well-known Raylman was a farmer and carpet weaver secretary and treasurer of the Swart- during his early life, but later followed the ley Bros. Milling & Trading Com- trade of a butcher. He died May 15, 1898, pany of Doylestown, is also the manager of and his wife died February 13, 1879. As a the large flour mills which are located be- result of his marriage with Mary Ann John- tween Clinton and Main streets. He is a son son, twelve children were born, namely; of Henry C. and Eva (Slifer) Beidler, and Margaret, the wife of our subject ; Addie, the was born in Milford township, Bucks County, wife of Joseph Shupe, of Solebury township; January 28, 1852. I/ydia Ann, deceased, was the wife of Joseph Henry C. Beidler, the father of our subject, BUCKS COUNTY 273

was born in Springfield township, in 1802, of three years, he was transferred to North and there grew to manhood. He learned the Wales, Montgomery County, on the North trade of a shoemaker and followed it in Penn Branch, and continued until 1884, Plumstead until 1851, when he moved to when he moved to Doylestown, and engaged Milford township. He then engaged in agri- in the flour and feed business with the cultural pursuits on his farm of 75 acres Swartley Bros. Company, acting as manager until his death, which occurred in 1890. He of the concern. The business flourished, was an unswerving Republican in his polit- and in 1890 they determined to operate a ical affiliations, and religiously was a member mill also. They built a large 3-story brick of the Mennonite Church. He formed a structure, 56^^ by 59^^ feet, with a cap^icity

matrimonial alliance with Eva Slifer, who of 1 50 barrels per day, and fitted it out with

was born in Springfield township, July 5, the latest improved machinery. They employ

1 808, and is now a resident of Milford town- a constant force of 14 or 15 men of exper-

ship, where she is enjoying life at the ad- ience, and turn out four brands of high grade

vanced age of ninety years. Their happy flour, namely : Best Patent, White I/oaf,

union was blessed by the birth of five chil- White I/ily, and Gold Brand, which find a

dren, namely; Samuel, who is engaged in ready sale on the market. Mr. Beidler is a farming on the old homestead farm in Mil- man of excellent business propensities as the ford township; Enos, who conducts a farm prosperous condition of the plant under his

in the vicinity of the home property ; Mary, management indicates, and he stands high who married Josiah F. Jacoby, a farmer liv- in public esteem. He is also a director of ing near Locust Valley, I^ehigh County; the Doylestown Trust Company, and takes Jacob, whose death occurred at the age of rank with the leading business men of the

one year; and Henry S., the subject of this borough.

personal history. He was united in marriage Seprember 2,

Henry S. Beidler, after obtaining a good 1 876, with I/ydia Leidy, a native of Hilltown public school education in the schools of his township, and they became the parents of native town, was employed as a clerk in a four children, two of whom are livi:gg.

store at Blooming Glen, Pa., at the age of I/aura ; Howard, who died at the age of five nineteen years. He continued at that line years; Viola, who died at the age of eight

of work for four years, and at the age of months ; and George W. Politically he is a twenty-three learned telegraphy at Sellers- stanch supporter of the Republican party,

ville, Bucks County, with the Philadelphia whilst in religious views he is a member of & Reading Railroad, remaining there for one the Salem Reformed Church. Socially, he year. He continued in the employ of that is a member of the Doylestown Lodge, No.

company for ten years, becoming, after leav- 94, I. O. O. F., of which he is assistant sec-

ing Sellersville, station agent at Bethayres retary ; and of the Doylestown Encampment,

on the Bound Brook Division. After a period No. 35, I. O. O. F. 14* —s;;

274 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

ARRY H. HEADLEY, one of the Revolutionary War, while Washington was ^1 enterprising and hustling business taking his army across the Delaware, a num-

- V • men of the borough of Bristol, is ber of soldiers of the army made their way the owner and proprietor of a neat drug back through the snow and ice, and with

store, which is located on the corner of bleeding feet arrived at the house of William

Washington and Wood streets. He is de- Headley. His home was always at the dis-

scended from one of the old and pioneer posal of the Colonial Army ; taking them in, families of Bucks County, that has been he began to feed the famished soldiers and identified with the progress of- this section while they were partaking of the plentiful since the days of William Penn. This store of food set before them, a man on horse- worthy and esteemed citizen of Bristol was back hurriedly rode up and gave the warn-

born there in 1864, and is a son of Howard ing that the British were on their trail ; the

and Keturah (Hibbs) Headley. soldiers immediately scattered in all direc-

The first Headley to locate in America tions and secreted themselves in Headley' came from England about the time of Wil- woods. William Headley married Elizabeth

liam Penn. The first of this prominent fam- Starkey, and they reared two children,

ily, of whom anything definite is known, is Amasiah and Sarah, the wife of Joseph White. Joshua Headley, who was a prosperous farmer Amasiah Headley, the grandfather of our

of Tullytown, and was the owner of a large subject, was a farmer all his life and resided tract of land in that community; he also on a farm that was given to him by his

owned mills at Bristol and operated a brick- father ; he was quite prominent in his com- yard there. He established the fisheries in munity, and was a firm supporter of the Tullytown, which became noted all over that Whig party in politics ; religiously he was a part of the country, and they still remain in member of the Society of Friends. His wife possession of one of his descendants, John Susan, a daughter of Benjamin White, made Burton. Joshua Headley supplied nearly all him the father of these children : Eliza, the the settlers of this section and the interior wife of Judge Amos Briggs of Tullytown part of the state with fish, the settlers com- Mary A.; Sarah; Caroline; Juliette; Elma ing for hundreds of miles with their large Howard ; Emma ; William Henry Harrison wagons to haul the fish to the fisheries in and Louise. William Henry Harrison Head- their vicinity. He reared a family of six ley was a member of the famous Anderson sons and two daughters, one of whom was Cavalry during the Civil War, and lost his William Headley, the next in line of descent life while serving his country. to our subject. William settled in Bristol Howard Headley, the father of our subject, township, where he owned several farms, was born on the Headley homestead in Bris- and agricultural work was his principal voca- tol township in 1835, and was educated to tion. In his religious views he was a mem- agricultural pursuits. He possessed a com- ber of the Society of Friends. During the mon school education, and early in life

WILSON PEARSON. ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 277

learned the trade of a carpenter and builder, principles of the Republican party; frater- vvhicli trade lie continued to follow in Bristol nally, he is a member of the I. O. O. F., and a number of years ; he then went West to the Foresters. He formed a matrimonial the state of Missouri, where he remained alliance with Carrie Brudon, a daughter of several years pursuing his trade, but on ac- Edward and Caroline Brudon, and grand-

count of ill health he returned to Bristol and daughter of James Brudon ; she is a promi- embarked in the mercantile business, and nent member of the Episcopal Church of followed the same until death claimed him, Bristol. Mr. Headley is one of the progres-

which was in March, 1878. Politically, he sive men of his community ; he is public- was a Republican, while in his religious spirited, and takes an active interest in all views he was a member of the Society of measures that in his opinion tend to promote Friends. He was married to Keturah Hibbs, the general welfare of Bristol. a daughter of Samuel and Susan (Shelings- burg) Hibbs; Susan Shelingsburg was a granddaughter of General Greene of Revo- lutionary War fame. Mr. and Mrs. Headley IIvSON PEARSON, who has been resident of Solebury township, reared two children, namely : Clara, who W:a for nearly four-score died in 1 880 ; and William Henry Harrison, Bucks County, Pa., the subject of this personal history. years, is the largest and most successful born his Our subject acquired a good education in farmer of the township ; he was on the public schools of Bristol, and later en- present farm January 6, 1 820, and is a son of tered the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, John and Elizabeth (Maskell) Pearson, and and was graduated in 1884; immediately grandson of Crispin and Hannah (Willson) after graduating, he returned to Bristol, Pearson. where he clerked for three years, and then Crispin Pearson was a farmer and lived all worked for Louis Hognet, in whose employ his active career in Solebury township, this he remained for a period of thirteen years. county; he owned and operated the same occupied our subject, which In September, 189S, our subject began busi- farm now by ness on his own account, and opened a neat contains 1 26 acres of highly improved land. drug store on the corner of Washington and He was joined in the bonds of wedlock with bore him a family of Wood streets, where he has established a Hannah Willson, who

large and paying trade. Mr. Headley carries twelve children, namely : Amie (Scharbor- ough); Jonathan James; Crispin, Jr. a complete stock of drugs ; is popular among John ; ; his fellow-citizens as well as in social circles Mordecai; Robert; Benjamin; Charles; Eli-

William ; and Hannah (Vasey). and enjoys the confidence and respect of a jah ; large circle of acquaintances. John Pearson, the father of our subject, Mr. Headley takes an active part in local was -born and reared on the homestead in the

politics, and is an ardent supporter of the little stone house which still stands in a state ;

278 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

of good preservation and which is one of the steady worker. Mr. Pearson is widely known old landmarks of the section. His early throughout the township, is an honor to his days were spent attending the district school chosen occupation, and is greatly respected of the neighborhood and in assisting his by his neighbors and acquaintances.

father in carrying on the farm. After his On November i, 1849, our subject was father's death he purchased a portion of the united in marriage with Rachael Fell, a homestead and began farming on his own daughter of Eli Fell, a native of Bucking- account, and was one of the substantial and ham township, Bucks County, Pa. As a progressive farmers of his community. He result of this happy union, ten children were passed from earth at the age of eighty-six born to them, namely : Maria, Sarah Ann, years. His wife was Elizabeth Maskell, a and John, deceased; Hulda (Mattison);

daughter of Henry Maskell, a native of Wilson, ; Watson, deceased Josephine, Eng- Jr. ;

land ; to this union a family of four children (Brown) ; Rachael, deceased ; Annie E. ; and

were reared, namely : Patience (Naylor) Ruth B. (Ely). Although our subject is a

Mary ; Sarah ; and Wilson, whose name solid Republican and takes an active interest heads this brief notice. The mother of our in politics, he has never consented to accept subject entered the world of rest at the age any public office. A recent portrait of Mr.

of seventy-two years. Politically, Mr. Pear- Pearson is presented on a preceding page, in

son was a stanch Republican, but was not an connection with the above sketch of his life. office seeker. Wilson Pearson attended the common schools of his native township, and his boyhood days were spent aiding his father in the |RS. JANE G. KINSEY, a highly cultivation of the farm, and our subject has esteemed resident of Quakertown, continued agricultural pursuits up to the and a faithful and devout mem-

present day. Mr. Pearson has been very suc- ber of the Friends' Meeting, is a daughter of cessful in his chosen occupation, and has by Dr. Samuel and Abigail (Green) Carey, and his perseverance and untiring energy suc- the relict of the late Samuel Kinsey. ceeded in purchasing four good farms besides Samuel Kinsey, who was one of the early the homestead, four of which farms he rents. and prosperous business men of Quakertown, He owns the homestead, which comprises was engaged in agricultural pursuits during

126 acres; three adjacent farms, one of 103 the latter years of his life. He was a son of acres, one of 69 acres, and another of 65 John and Margaret (Woodward) Kinsey, and acres; and another, situated three miles was born in New Castle County, Del., Feb- northeast of the homestead, consisting of 85 ruary 24, 1822. He traces his ancestors back acres. They are all under a splendid state to Samuel Kinsey, a farmer and a member of of cultivation. Our subject still farms the the Society of Friends, who emigrated from homestead, and at his advanced age is still a England to America, locating in Buckingham ;

BUCKS COUNTY 279

townshipj Bucks County, Pa. His son, John, Meredith is descended from an old and well- the grandfather of our subject's husband, was known Welsh family, which was established born in that township, where he engaged in in this country by Simon Meredith, his tilling the soil. He married Margaret Kitchen, great-grandfather. Dr. Joseph Meredith, a a Solebury Friend, and of their children one son of Simon, was born in Doylestown,

was John Kinsey, the father of Samuel. In Bucks County, and, after graduating ,from

181 1 John Kinsey, the last named, moved the Jefferson Medical College of Philadel- with his parents to Delaware and entered phia, began practicing at Gwynedd, Pa., upon the study of medicine with Dr. Baker, where he contini^ed until his removal to of Wilmington, and later was graduated Quakertown in 1836. There he practiced from the Pennsylvania Medical College. He until 1888, when he retired and lived there

was a consistent member of the Society until his demise, in 1 896. His sou, Charles F. of Friends and a successful physician. He Meredith, was one of the good and substan-

lived a long and useful life before passing tial citizens of Quakertown for many years.

to his eternal rest, in 1 864. He married Olivia Weisel, and the following

Samuel Kinsey moved to Chester County, children blessed their union : Isabella

Pa., in 1 83 1, with his parents, and in 1839 Rachel; Sarah; William H.; and Florence located in Quakertown, where he learned the M. Dr. William H. Meredith was graduated trade of a potter with Richard Moore, and from the Jefferson Medical College of Phila- eventually engaged in that business there. delphia, and has since been engaged in prac- He continued until 1852, when he disposed tice in Quakertown, having a large and lu- of his business and purchased a farm in Rich- crative patronage. Mrs. Kinsey died in i860, land township, where he carried on farming at the age of forty years. and stock dealing during the remainder of Mr. Kinsey formed a second alliance with his life, passing to the unknown beyond in Jane G. Carey, the subject of this biograph- 1888. He was a shrewd and upright busi- ical record. She comes of one of Bucks ness man, and held the esteem and respect of County's oldest and most highly respected all with whom he came in contact, both in families, and is a descendant of Enoch Carey, social and business relations. He was twice who was one of the leading agriculturists of united in hymeneal bonds, his first union the county. He reared a large family of being with Martha F. Custard, a daughter of children, one of whom was Elias, grandfather George and Hannah (Foulke) Custard, and of our subject. Elias Carey was a native of they had three children, namely: Charles Bucks County, and, after reaching manhood, F., a resident of Georgetown, S. C; George followed the occupation of a farmer. He was C, of Richland township, Bucks County; also justice of the peace for many years and and Emma Irene, who married Dr. William lived a long and useful life, dying at the H. Meredith, who is one of the leading phy- remarkable old age of ninety-one years- He sicians and surgeons of Bucks County. Dr. was joined in wedlock with Hannah Armit- 28o BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

age, who lived to reach the advanced age of respectfully declined the proffered honors.. eighty-seven years, and they became the He was united in marriage with Abigail

parents of the following offspring : Enoch, Green, by whom he had five children, only

who married Martha Dean ; Elizabeth, de- one of whom now lives, Jane G., the subject

ceased ; Hannah, who married James Brad- of this personal history. Mrs. Carey closed

shaw ; Eleanor, the wife of William Kitchen her eyes in final sleep in ; 1854. Elias, who died young; John, deceased; Mrs. Kinsey possesses many excellent Mary, who married for David McCray ; Samuel, traits of character which she is greatly

the father of our subject ; and several others admired and loved by a large circle of ac-

who died in infancy. Dr. Samuel Carey ob- quaintances in Quakertown, and is of that tained a good intellectual training, after disposition which enriches true womanhood

which he was engaged in teaching school for to a priceless value. She is a member of some time. Having decided upon a medical that noble sect, the Society of Friends of

career, he began study under the tutelage of Quakertown, of which she is one of the most Dr. Hendrie, of Doylestown, and later grad- active supporters. uated from the Medical University of New

York City. He entered upon his first practice at Sellersville, Bucks County, but in

1825 moved to Quakertown and practiced C^Jy^-NTHONY K. JOYCE is a much es- there until his death, on August 16, 1865, /^ teemedte( and influential citizen of being associated for many years with Dr. Bristol, Pa., and has been in the Samuel Bradshaw. He was a man of noble employ of the water works of that borough disposition, and possessed the confidence of since 1874, having occupied his present posi- his large number of patients throughout this tion as superintendent for the past fifteen section. was not He only a skilled physi- years. He is of Irish extraction; he was cian and surgeon, but was well versed on all born at Mount Airy, Pa., February 15, 1848, topics of current interest, being an active and is a son of Anthony K. and Iconise M. politician. He was closely identified with (lyivingston) Joyce, and grandson of James the advancement of all public enterprises for and Rebecca (Risk) Joyce. the progress of Quakertown. He was a The maternal great-grandfather of our sub- director of the Doylestown Bank, president ject, John Risk, who was a native of the of the Quakertown Turnpike Co., a member Emerald Isle, was the first of the family to of the town council for some years, during locate in America ; he came to this country which time he was a member of the commit- with his family, and settled in Middletown tee on the alteration of the constitution in township, Bucks County, and there con- 1835. He received the nomination for county tinued farming the remainder of his active treasurer and also for associate judge, and, days. He was the father of two sons and although importuned by many to accept, he three daughters, one of whom was Rebecca ;

BUCKS COUNTY 281

Risk, the grandmother of our subject. James farm, continuing at the same until 1867. In

Joyce lived near Pittsburg, Pa., where he 1874, his services were sought by the Bristol

followed farming the major part of his life. Water Works Company; his work being of As a result of his union with Rebecca Risk, such a high character, he was soon promoted they became the parents of three sons and to the position of night engineer, serving in three daughters. that capacity until 1883 ; in that year he was Anthony K. Joyce, the father of our sub- made superintendent of the works, and has ject, obtained his education in Princeton held the same up to the present time, making College, and at Frankford College; during this his fifteenth consecutive year. Our sub- his early manhood he taught school a num- ject has entire charge of the works, which ber of years; from 1855 to 1857, he was en- have proved a decided success under his ex- gaged in the mercantile business in Bristol, cellent management, and the people of Bris- but, after two years of that line of business, tol may proudly boast of the excellent water he began tilling the soil, having purchased system maintained by the Water Works

a farm in Bristol township, known as the Company. Mr. Joyce is respected and es- Pigeon Swamp farm, noted for its great teemed by a host of friends, who know him pigeon roosts. At the time he departed to be an enterprising and valuable citizen,

from this life, which was in 1 866, he resided always assisting in the progress and welfare in the borough of Bristol. He was joined in of his adopted borough. the bonds of matrimony with l/ouise M. I^iv- Mr. Joyce has for many years manifested a ingston, a daughter of Thomas F. Livingston keen interest in town and county political

of New York City, and she passed from this aflFairs, firmly supporting the principles of

world at the age of sixty-seven years. They the Republican party ; his influence is felt in were the happy parents of a family of eight conventions, and although the nominations

children, namely: Mrs. Mary L,. Booz; An- for public office have often been tendered

thony K. , the subject of this brief sketch him, he has always refused, much preferring

Caleb T. ; William ly. ; Robert S. ; Frank S. to assist his friends to office. Fraternally,

Howard J. ; and C. Duane. Mr. Joyce was a he is a member of the Royal Arcanum. Mr. prominent Repiiblican, and filled many town- Joyce has been twice joined in matrimonial

ship offices, including that of county auditor. bonds, his first wife being Sarah F. Green, He was a relative of Anthony D. Kennedy, who died in 1871, leaving two children,

formerly U. S. Senator from Maryland, and namely : Louise and Inman. His second mar- the Joyce family, of which he was a worthy riage was with Isabella Thomas, a daughter representative, dates back to the colonial of Job Thomas of Philadelphia, and a family days of America. of two children blessed their happy home, as Anthony K. Joyce, our subject, possesses a follows: Isabella E- and Livingston. Our fine education, and his boyhood days were subject supports the Episcopal Church, while spent in learning farming on his father's his wife attends the Baptist. 282 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

'AMUEI/ Y. APPLE, a prominent valuable members of the community. He and substantial citizen of Bucks was joined in marriage with Annie Yost, and County, who has been a resident they reared a family of eight children, all of

of Haycock township all his life, where he whom are still living and are well-to-do and has been engaged in farming and carpenter- prosperous citizens in the various communi-

ing, is now residing in the village of Apple- ties in which they reside. They are as fol-

bachsville, having located there in 1889, lows : lyydia, the wife of Jacob Rhodes ; Eli- where he has since lived in retirement, en- zabeth, wedded to Levi Ruth; Samuel Y.,

joying the fruits of his early toil. This the subject of this personal history ; Ephraim; worthy citizen was born in Haycock town- Annie, married to John Hilligus; Lovina,

ship, March 21, 1833, and is a son of Samuel the wife of Henry King ; Sarah, the wife of

and Annie (Yost) Apple, and grandson of Aaron Ruth ; and Cornelia, who was united Jacob and Peggie (lyitzenberg) Apple. in the bonds of wedlock with Matilda Scheetz. Jacob Apple, the grandfather of our sub- The mother of our subject died, aged seventy-

ject, with his father, came from Germany to seven years ; she was a kind and loving mo- the United States, and Jacob settled in Hill- ther and wife, and she was held in dear town township, Bucks County, Pa., where esteem by a large circle of acquaintances.

~ he pursued his former occupation as a car- Samuel Y. Apple was educated in the penter and builder with marked success. He schools of his native township and remained was united in the bonds of wedlock with under the parental roof until he attained the

Peggie I/itzenberg and they became the pa- age of twenty-one years ; having learned the rents of a family of six children, named as trade of a carpenter from his father he then follows: Enos, Elias, Jacob, Catherine, Peg- moved to Strawntown, Bucks County, where gie, and Elizabeth. Jacob Apple passed he purchased the farm owned by Charles

from this life, aged about sixty years; his Brown, and carried on general farming and wife died at the age of seventy years. in addition followed his trade to a large ex- Samuel Apple was born in Hilltown town- tent. He immediately set about improving ship, this county, and his early days were the farm, building a new house, barn, and spent learning the occupation of a carpenter, many out-buildings, and put the land under working under the directions of his father. a high state of cultivation, and was recog- In early manhood he became a resident of nized as one of the leading and progressive Bedminster township, this county, and re- farmers of his community. In 1889 our sub-

sided there all his life following his chosen ject sold his property and moved to the vil- occupation. Mr. Apple entered the world lage of Applebachsville and purchased the

beyond at the age of sixty-seven years, and William Nicholas residence, which he re- his death was not only mourned by his family modeled into a handsome home. He has

and relatives, but by a large circle of friends, since lived in retirement and is one of the who realized that they had lost one of the prominent and highly respected citizens of

CHARLES PHILLIPS. BUCKS COUNTY 285

his community and always lends his aid and cation in the district schools of Solebury influence to any enterprise which in his township, and at Westtown Academy ; upon opinion is conducive to the public welfare. leaving school he taught several years, and

Mr. Apple chose for his life companion after his marriage began the cultivation of

Maria Brown, a daughter of Charles and Ca- the soil. In 1836 when the homestead was therine Brown; in religious views they are divided among the children, Aaron took pos- members of the I^utheran Church. session of the mill and a portion of the farm, and remained there pursuing the vocation of a miller and farmer the rest of his active days. His death occurred in 1858. He was TT^HARLES PHILLIPS, whose portrait joined in the bonds of wedlock with Sarah Crosdale, I Sr is shown on the opposite page, is a C. Crosdale, a daughter of Jeremiah ^>-° ^ retired farmer and miller of Bucks a prominent resident of Middletown town- in County, and is one of the honored and es- ship, Bucks County. She was .born 1785 teemed residents of New Hope borough. He and died in 1848. The following children was born on the homestead November 12, resulted from this union : Edward, who died (Tirgo) died 1820, and is a son of Aaron and Sarah C. in 1825, aged ten years; Anna (Crosdale) Phillips, grandson of Thomas Phil- in 1857, at the age of forty years; Mary

in died in ; Charles, lips, and great-grandson of Aaron Phillips. (Knight), born 1819, 1857

Aaron Phillips settled in Solebury tavjn- our subject ; and Martha (Young), who was ship, this county, and purchased a tract of born in -1826, and resides at Long Island, land consisting of 112 acres on the banks of N. Y. The father of our subject favored the Friends politically, he was formerly an old the Delaware River, built a flour mill, and ; later in life he resided there all his life. Thomas Phillips line Whig, but became an was reared on his father's farm and upon his Abolitionist. Phillips reared on the father's death took possession of the mill and Charles was home- farm and operated the same until death stead and received his elementary education claimed him. He was married to Sarah in the schools of his native township; his working in the mill Eastburn, who was born in 1766, and was a younger days were spent daughter of Robert Eastburn. They were owned by his father, learning the trade of a 1888 success- the parents of the following family of chil- miller, and from 1836 to he was Moses; fully pnrsuing that occupation. In 1858, dren : Elizabeth; Mary; Aaron; Thomas; Robert; Rachael; Samuel; Mercy; upon the decease of his father, he came into property and operated and David. Our subject's grandfather died possession of the mill on his own account; in 1889 he in 1832, his wife having preceded him the same mill and moved to the borough of several years. sold the where he has since resided en- Aaron Phillips was born on the homestead New Hope, a well-earned competency. In 1896 August 28, 1790, and he acquired a good edu- joying ;

286 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

he sold the farm. Mr. Phillips, during the a rise commanding a beautiful view of the

period when he was actively engaged in surrounding country for miles around, and it

following his vocation, was regarded as one is an ideal place for summer boarding. Mr. of the enterprising and progressive farmers Nickel was born in the village of Ferndale,

of Solebury township, and is held in high Nockamixon township, Bucks County, March

esteem by the citizens of his community. 20, 1858, and is a son of William and Regina Mr. Phillips was wedded, in 1847, to Sarah (Hines) Nickel, and grandson of Harris

B. Smith, a daughter of Joseph Smith, a Christopher Nickel, the last-named a life- resident of Makefield township, this county, long resident of Nassau, Germany. and a family of five children blessed their William Nickel, the father of our subject,

home, namely : Edward W., who is a resi- was born in Nassau, Germany, November 24, dent of Ambler, Montgomery County, Pa., 1826, and after acquiring a liberal education was wedded to Miss Kenderdine and they are in the schools of his native town, learned the the parents of two children, Watson K. and trade of a blacksmith, which occupation he

Fannie C. ; Fanny S. is the wife of Mathew followed in his native country until 1848; in

Cunningham of Philadelphia ; Frank A., that year he immigrated to the United States

assistant cashier of the I^ambertville (N. J.) and settled in Easton, Pa., where he followed National Bank, was married to Anna Beans coachmaking and also worked in a ship-yard and one child, Robert, blessed their home to a certain extent. He remained in Easton,

Mary E. ; and Addie M. Mr. Phillips is an Pa., until 1857, when, in April of that year, unwavering Republican and has served as he moved to Ferndale, Bucks County, and township school director, and is now serving bought out David Sheetz, and continued his

in the capacity of town treasurer of New former occupation ; after having continued

Hope. Our subject has been a director of as a resident of the village for twenty years, the Ivambertville National Bank for the past he sold his property to his son William, who twenty-five years. is now carrying on the business with marked success. Our subject's father then went to Pleasant Valley, where he again took up his former business, and some fifteen years 'OHN H. NICKEIv. This genial and later sold his shop to his son Clinton, and

hospitable landlord, who is the pro- moved to Applebachsville, where he now re- prietor of the Bucksville Hotel, lo- sides and where he is carrying on his former cated at Bucksville, Pa., is not only highly business. Mr. Nickel is an industrious esteemed by the traveling salesmen whose worker and has been remarkably successful business brings them to the village of Bucks- in his business undertakings. He was mar- ville, but is also very popular with the citi- ried to Regina Hines, a daughter of John H. zens of the village. Our subject conducts a Hines. She was born in Wurtemberg, Ger- model hotel, which is beautifully situated on many, and came to this country with her ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 287

parents when she was but two years of age. of 1 897 he purchased seven carloads of choice This union has been blessed by the following cattle in this and New York State, which he

children : William H., a blacksmith of Fern- disposed of to the farmers of this county

dale, who married Mary C. Keller, and they and during this year he bids fair to outdo last have adopted a child, Marion Haney; Cathe- year's business in that line. rine, Nickel chose for his helpmeet Miss the wife of J. H. Haney ; Emma, the Mr. wife of Milton Apple John H., the subject Isabella Kohl, a daughter of Michael D. ;

of this biographical sketch ; David, a black- Kohl, a prominent resident of Nockamixon smith by trade, who resides at South Bethle- township, this county, and to this union a

hem, Pa. ; Clinton resides at Pleasant Valley, family of three children has been reared, Pa.; George B., deceased; Mahlon, deceased namely: Harvey, who assists his father;

Lizzie was wedded to E. B. Cressman ; Mary Alice ; and William C. Politically, our sub-

and Alice are deceased ; Frank, a blacksmith ject is an unwavering Democrat, and has filled

residing at Quakertown, this county ; War- many township oflSces. Religiously, he and

ren is a Lutheran minister, and is a resident his family are members and supporters of the

of Applebachsville, Pa. also Fraternally, he is past ; James, a black- Reformed Church. a

smith of Pleasant Valley ; and Maggie, who ofBcer of the Knights of the Golden Eagle. resides with her parents. Mr. Nickel and family are members of the Lutheran Church. John H. Nickel acquired his intellectual training in the Central Hill School, and at ILLIAM SHICK. One of the prom- the age of eighteen years left school and for Wiinent and successful manufacturing two years served an apprenticeship to the concerns of Bucks County, Pa., is the Fern- carriagemaker's trade. He then embarked dale Boot & Shoe Manufacturing Company,

in the business on his own account, purchas- which is located in the village of Ferndale ; ing his father's wood-working stand, and the manager of this prosperous enterprise is besides building both light and heavy wagons the gentleman whose name heads the above

he operated a repair shop. He conducted this lines, and who was one of its chief organizers stand for a period of fourteen years, and at in 1884. This highly-esteemed gentleman the expiration of that time he rented the has been a life-long resident of the village,

BUcksville Hotel of the Bucks estate, and has where he was born February 1^^ is 13, 1847 i conducted the same since 1892. The hotel a son of Frederick and Catherine (Deemer) has twelve large rooms and a large dining Shick, and grandson of Frederick Shick, room, all of which are well furnished. In who was a prominent farmer in Nockamixon connection with the hotel business our sub- township, this county. ject deals extensively in cattle, and to him Frederick Shick, the father of our subject, belongs the title of being the largest cattle was born in Nockamixon township, this

dealer in Bucks County ; during the season county, and his vocation was that of a farmer. 288 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

which occupation he continued throughout stantly on the increase, and in order to sup- his entire life. He died at the advanced age ply the large demand of their customers it of ninety-three years, and his death was will soon be necessary for them to enlarge deeply mourned by a large circle of acquaint- their plant. Mr, Shick is recognized as one ances. He was joined in the bonds of wed- of the enterprising business men of Ferndale, lock with Catherine Deemer, and they be- and commands the respect and confidence of came the parents of thirteen children, who the entire community. were named as follows : lycvi, Frederick and Mr. Shick was united in the bonds of David are deceased Ephraim matrimony with Kohl, a John Jacob ; Emma Jane daugh- ; ; ;

Michael ; William ; Caroline ter of Michael Kohl; ; Catherine, de- she died in 1882, aged

ceased ; Mary ; Sarah ; and Eliza. The mother twenty-six years, leaving three children,

of our subject passed from this life at the age namely : Estella ; Ella ; and Minnie. Our of seventy-seven years. subject has served as school director three

Our subject received his mental training years. Fraternally, he is a member of the

in the public schools of Ferndale, and re- Knights of the Golden Eagle, and the Jr. O. mained with his parents until he attained U. A. M. Religiously, he is a member of the his majority; his boyhood days were spent Reformed Church. working in his father's shoemaking shop, where he learned to make shoes. He pur-

sued that vocation until 1884, when he assisted in the organizing of the Ferndale Boot "ON. CHRISTIAN E. HINDENACH, & Shoe Manufacturing Company, of which a prosperous merchant of Durham, he is manager and a prominent stockholder. Bucks Co., Pa., is a prominent The officers of this company are as follows : figure in the political affairs of his section, Dr. F. H. Grim, president; S. F. Mann, which he represented in the State Legislature

treasurer ; T. M. Moyer, secretary ; and Wil- for two terms of two years each. He is a son liam Shick, manager. In the year the com- of John and Elizabeth Catherine (Guten- pany was organized, they erected a two-story kunts) Hindenach, and was born in Warring- brick building, 50 by 30 feet, and the shop ton township, this county, February 27, 1853. is equipped with the latest and most improved John Hindenach, the father of our subject,

machinery ; they employ some twenty skilled was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, and after workmen, who are kept constantly at work; attaining man's estate sought a home and the daily output of this shop is 100 pairs of fortune in America, first locating in Warring- shoes, the principal shoe being a first grade ton, Bucks Co., Pa. He was possessed of of union brogans. The success of this enter- small means when he entered upon his career prise has been mainly due to the untiring as an agriculturist, but being a man of great efforts of our subject; the firm has already industry and good habits he laid by a suffi- established a large patronage, which is con- cient sum with which, in 1863, to buy a farm BUCKS COUNTY 289

in Bedminster township. After following Henry E., a farmer of Durham township, farming upon that estate for a period of two married Ada Frankenfield, and two children, years, he disposed of it at a good profit and William and Maynard, have been born to rented a farm in Springfield township, which them. he occupied three years. He then rented a Christian E. Hindenach was reared upon farm in Durham township, known as the A. his father's farm and attended the public Kramer farm, and there successfully contin- schools for some years, after which he began ued at his vocation until his demise at the teaching. Subsequently, he attended the age of sixty-six years. He was one of the Keystone State Normal School, of Kutztown,

1 good substantial residents of the community Pa. , and was a member of the class of 877. and served for ten years as supervisor. In After completing his studies he again took religious faith, he was an adherent to the up the profession of a teacher as a means of doctrines of the lyutheran Church. As a earning a competency and continued for a result of his union with Elizabeth Catherine period of twenty years, the last fourteen years Gutenkunts, who was bom in Germany and of which he efficiently served in the capacity died at the age of seventy-three years, the fol- of principal of the Durham public schools. lowing children were born : Frederick, who In 1894, he gave up that vocation and pur- was a stonemason early in life, is now the chased the R. K. Bachman & Bro. store and outside manager of the AUentown Iron residence in Durham, where he has since

Works, of AUentown, Pa. , —he formed a mat- resided. He has a model mercantile store, rimonial alliance with Angeline Amber, by occupying two floors and a basement, in whom he has four children, Walter, John, which he has in stock almost anything that

is Bertha and Charles ; George, a farmer of his customers may desire. It carefully sys- Montgomery County, has two children, Ma- tematized, neat in appearance, and the great-

is extended to all the patrons mie and Araminda, by his wife, Mary ; Paul, est courtesy a retired engineer of Parsons City, Kan., is who find it a pleasure to trade with Mr. Hin-

is of genial disposition and has now a capitalist ; Mary is the wife of J. C. denach. He Funk, of Quakertown, Pa.; Charles, a farmer a large circle of acquaintances throughout his section of the county. He is a man of of Montgomery County ; John, a wheelwright of Pleasant Hill, Pa.; Christian E., the gen- high principles and is without doubt the best man on public affairs in the village." tleman whose name heads these lines ; Peter, versed who is a partner in the mercantile business He has frequently been called upon to accept with our subject, married Addie Nicholas, by public ofl&ce, and for three years served as whom he has two sons, Wilmer and Chester; postmaster, also as overseer of the poor, asses- William F., a farmer of Williams township, sor, and is now school director. In 1 886, he Northampton County, Pa., married Ida R. was elected to the State Legislature by a large majority and served with such satisfac- Leidich, and has one child. Bayard ; l/ouisa, the wife of F. Bowman, of Easton, Pa.; and tion to his constituents that he was re-elected ago BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

without much opposition in 1888. In that Mary, the wife of our subject; and Edwin.

office he won the high esteem of his col- Mr. Laubach and his worthy wife are still leagues by a quiet, straightforward and im- enjoying life on the old home farm at an partial course in the discharge of his duties. advanced age. He served as justice of the He was very active while in that body and peace, school director, supervisor, and in a

assisted in passing many important bills ; he number of other township offices. Our sub- presented amendments to both the Prison and ject and his wife are the happy parents of two

Reformation Bills, both of which amend- children : David H., who was born January

ments passed the House. In the year 1 893, 29, 1 878, and is clerking in a dry goods store he was again placed in nomination much in Easton, Pa.; and Elsie E., born September

against his will, as his was the minority 3, 1880, who is a student in the class of 1899 party, but owing to the great pressure under at the Keystone State Normal School, of

which he was placed, he suffered his name to Kutztown, Pa. Mr. Hindenach is a member

be used on the ticket, knowing well that of the Lutheran Church, and is a member and

there was not one chance of his success, and past master of Prosperity Lodge, No. 567, F. in the election following met with defeat. & A. M., of Riegelsville. Our subject's wife In 1897, he was elected justice of the peace, died April 26, 1885, at the age of twenty- which office he still retains. seven years. Mr. Hindenach formed a marital union with Mary I^aubach, who cotnes of a prominent Bucks County family, a record of which ACOB S. GROFP, the present popular appears elsewhere in this biographical work. postmaster of the borough of New- Her father is Peter lyaubach, who was born town, and an enterprising and influen- in Durham township, Bucks County, January tial business man of that place, was born near I, 1 816. He fell heir to the old family home- Sellersville, Bucks County, Pa., June 26, 1844, stead and has since been engaged in farming and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Stout) Groff, and huckstering, being one of the well-to-do and a grandson of Abraham Groff. residents of that section. He is a musician Our subject's grandfather, Abraham Groff, of ability and for thirty-one years led the was a native of Holland, and at an early age choir and played the organ in the Union he departed from his native country and im- Church in Durham township. He married migrated to the United States, locating in Lovina Bachman, a daughter of Solomon and Rockhill township, Bucks County, Pa., where Anna (Antherhold) Bachman, who was born he continued his vocation as a farmer the rest March 15, 1823, and their union was blessed of his active days. He was the father of a by the birth of the following offspring : a son family of children, one of whom was Jacob, who died in infancy ; Annie, the wife of W. the father of our subject. Jacob Groff worked Rinker; Jacob; David; Josephine; Sarah, upon his father's farm during his younger who married Samuel Rnfe ; Emma, deceased; days, and at the same time attended the dis-

ADAM MARKGRAF. —

BUCKS COUNTY 293

trict school of the neighborhood ; during his children, namely : A. Howard, born in 1873 ; early manhood he served an apprenticeship Emily Ray and Mary Elizabeth, twins, born

to the blacksmith's trade, and followed that in 1875 ; and Elsie May, born in 1890, who

line of business a number of years, when he is the only child living. He is a member of

purchased a tract of land and engaged in the the Newtown lyodge, F. & A. M. ; religiously,

cultivation of the soil. He was united in he is a Lutheran. marriage with Mary Stout, by whom he reared a family of seven children, who were

named as follows : Elizabeth ; Isaac ; Owen DAM MARKGRAF. Among the many S.; Charles; Abraham; Jacob S., whose name successful industries of this part of heads the above lines ; and Mary. Our sub- the Keystone State is the Eden ject's mother passed from this life at an early Manufacturing Company, located at Eden,

age ; Mr. GrofF chose for his second wife Mrs. Bucks County, and at. the head of this enter-

Moore. prise is the gentleman whose name appears S. Groff acquired Jacob a liberal education at the opening of this biography, who is in the public schools of his native township, superintendent and a large stockholder. He and at an early age learned the trade of a was born in Bohemia, Austria, in April, 1845, tailor ; he then went to Philadelphia, where and is a son of Andrew and Josepha (Fisher) he learned the trade of a cigarmaker, and Markgraf. then followed that line of business for a Our subject's father was a farmer and period of twelve years. August i, 1877, our weaver, and had several looms in his house ; subject became a resident of Newtown, where he and his wife died at about the age of be began the manufacture of cigars, and car- seventy-eight years. They were the parents ried on a wholesale and retail business until of a family of nine children, four of whom 1 896, when he disposed of his manufacturing are now living, namely : John, Adam, Chris- establishment, and conducted a cigar and tian, and Kate. tobacco store alone. Mr. Groff was thor- Adam Markgraf obtained a good education oughly familiar with the manufacture of in the schools of his native country, and cigars, turned and out a fine grade, his cigars worked with his father, learning the trade of commanding ready sale. weaving dress goods ; he also spent much of August I, 1896, our subject was appointed his time learning music. In 1866 he con- postmaster of Newtown, as a successor to cluded to come to the United States, and was P. Carver, Joseph and has served in that posi- followed a year later by his two brothers, tion to the present time ; he is one of the best John, who died in Philadelphia, and Chris- postmasters the borough has ever had. Mr. tian. Adam Markgraf landed in New York Groff chose for his life companion Emma City and soon left for Philadelphia, where a Shaffer, a daughter ofJohn Shaffer of Coopers- week after his arrival he began working at burg, Pa., and they are the parents of four his trade as a weaver, continuing the same 294 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

for about one year. He then entered the the capacity of superintendent, and much of United States Navy as a musician, going out the success the Company has met with has on U. S. S. "Minnesota" on a seven months' been entirely due to his untiring energy and

cruise, visiting England, France, Portugal, perseverance ; the business started with three

Spain, Africa, Madeira Islands, West Indies, power looms, which have been increased to South America, and then back to the starting twenty. The Eden Manufacturing Company point, —the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Returning produces a fine grade of curtains, draperies,

to Philadelphia he again engaged in weaving, decorations, upholstery fabrics, cotton and silk but later moved to Hulmeville, this county, goods, tapestry, etc., all of the most exquisite

where he spent two years at his trade ; at the design. Our subject in addition to superin-

expiration of that time he again enlisted for tending the mills is also the designer, in two years in the United States Navy as a which line he has shown rare ability, for the musician. At the expiration of his term of beautiful designs shown in the fabrics pro- enlistment he started a small carpet weaving duced would require an artist with much

business, but in 1874 engaged with P. T. experience to equal. Mr. Markgraf is well Barnum, the famous showman, as a musician, known throughout his community as a man being with him one year. Then for the third of sterling quality, and enjoys the respect of time he enlisted in the U. S. Navy, only to both his neighbors and fellow-citizens. be discharged on account of there not being Mr. Markgraf was united in marriage, in enough money appropriated to defray the ex- 1869, with Ernestine Gunthert, also a native penses. In July, 1876, he opened a grocery of Bohemia. Our subject is a Republican in store in Philadelphia, which he conducted politics; he is a member of the Philadelphia three years with marked success; he then Musical Society, and is a fine cornet soloist, spent several years as a workman and fore- the cornet being his favorite instrument, but man of a weaving establishment; in 1885 he he does not confine himself to the one returned to Hulmeville, Pa., and engaged in instrument, for he can play almost any. the manufacture of window-curtains, Mr. in part- Markgraf s portrait is presented on a nership with Max Shoen and F. Falzman, preceding page. the partnership terminating a year and a half later; our subject then took as partner Edwin Henry, which arrangement continued until -OHN F. COOPER. The family of 1888, when our subject bought his partner's which this gentleman is a worthy interests and conducted the business on his representative is one of the oldest of own account until the fall of 1888. In that Tinicum township, Bucks County, Pa. They year he started his present establishment, and are descendants of English Quakers, and the in the following year a stock company was founder of this prominent and prosperous organized, known as the Eden Manufacturing family in this country was the great-grand- Company. Mr. Markgraf has since served in father of our subject. The gentleman whose BUCKS COUNTY 295

name appears at the head of this notice is one out his entire life. In addition to farming of the self-made men of which Bucks County he helped to build a lime-kiln for William can so proudly boast, having started out Wolfinger in 1852, and for forty years prior in life to battle against the tide when a to his retirement was also engaged in the lime mere boy, at the age of ten years, and has business. He was united in marriage with gradually worked his way up until he now Catherine Frankenfield, a daughter of Philip occupies a prominent position among the Frankenfield, and she died June 29, 1897, at foremost business men of Point Pleasant, Pa., the age of sixty-nine years, six months and being the junior member of the firm of Stover nine days. Seven children were born to Mr.

& Cooper, proprietors of a coal, wood, hay and and Mrs. Cooper, namely : Eve, who was lime store. Mr. Cooper was born in Tinicum wedded to William Aulthouse, and they have township July 24, 1857, ^^^ is a son of Samuel reared four children,—Ella, Amanda, Harry, and Catherine (Frankenfield) Cooper, grand- Maggie Catherine is the wife of Frank and ; son of Bethel Cooper, and great-grandson of Hamilton, and they have been blessed by the William Cooper. birth of one child, Rebecca; John F., our

; de- William Cooper, the founder of the Cooper subject Clara and lyouise, twins ; Jane

family in this country, upon his arrival in ceased ; and Eliza, the wife of Heston Frank- America took up a tract of land in Tinicum enfield. township, consisting of 300 acres, which is Our subject at the age of ten years was now the property of Hiram Haney, of Phila- thrown upon his own resources and began

delphia. He pursued the vocation of a farmer working by the month as a farm-hand ; being

all his life, and passed from this earth on his possessed of great ambition he was not slow farm at the advanced age of ninety-two years. to avail himself of every opportunity which He was the progenitor of the following chil- presented itself for the betterment of his con- dren: James; Samuel; and Bethel. Bethel, dition. He attended the grammar schools the grandfather of our subject, was born on during the winter months and obtained a fair the homestead in Tinicum township, and his education and remained on the farm for a vocation was also that of a farmer, in which period of twenty years. Then, in 1894, with occupation he was very successful. He was Hugh Stover, under the name of Stover & twice united in marriage, and by his first wife Cooper, he leased the Jacob Stover estate and reared one son, Samuel, the father of our stib- embarked in the coal, wood, hay and lime

ject. His second wife was Sarah Fox, and this business. They manufacture as high as 40,- union resulted in the birth of five children, 000 bushels of lime per year, and in addition

: ; William ; Nelson ; Polly carry on a large trade in coal, wood and hay. namely James ; and Jane. The members of the firm of Stover & Cooper Samuel Cooper was born on the homestead are well known throughout the township, and

January i, 1824, and was reared to agricultural possess the confidence and respect of many pursuits, which vocation he pursued through- acquaintances. 296 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Mr. Cooper strongly upholds the principles William Fine, the father of our subject, of the Democratic party, but has never sought was born and reared on his father's farm in

public office ; fraternally, he is a member of Warren County, N. J., and was educated to the Patriotic Order Sons of America. agricultural pursuits, but early in life conducted a general store at Finesville, hauling

his goods from Philadelphia; in 1854, his

store was destroyed by fire, and in the follow- II.I.IAM H. H. FINE, the popular ing year he moved to Bristol, Bucks County, Wiproprietor and manager of the Pa., where he engaged in stable-keeping on Railroad Hotel, which is located in the the canal for a period of three years. In

. borough of Bristol, Pa., and a highly es- 1858 he engaged in the hotel business, con-

teemed resident of that town, was born at ducting the Exchange which was located on

Finesville, Warren County, N. J., the date the corners of Bath, Otter, and Mill streets, of his birth being February 15, 1841, and he where the Closson House now stands. He is a son of William and Susan (Smith) Fine, continued that line of business until death and grandson of William and Mary (Carpen- claimed him, which was in 1864. He was a ter) Fine. very prominent man of his community, was William Fine, the grandfather of our sub- an old line Whig in politics, and served ject, was also born at Finesville, N. J., where three terms as constable of Bristol. Fra-

this prominent and prosperous family has ternally, he was a member of the I. O. O. F. been connected with the growth and de- He was joined in marriage with Susan velopment of Warren County, N. J., from Smith, who was born at Milford, N. J., and prior to the breaking out of the Revolution- they became the parents of the following

ary it War, and was after some of our sub- children : William H. H., the subject of this ject's ancestors that the village of Finesville biographical sketch; James S.; Jacob Y.; derived its name. William Fine owned a who died in childhood ; and John L,. Mrs. large tract of land which laid along the Fine, who was a daughter of James and Musckonetcong Creek, and in addition to Hannah (Black) Smith, survived her hus- carrying on general farming, he owned and band some twenty years. operated a distillery. He was united in William H. H. Fine acquired a good edu- marriage with a Mary Carpenter of Carpen- cation in the schools of Finesville, N. J., tersville, N. J., who was descended from an and at Bristol, Pa., and for a short time was old and prominent family of that place. a student at Attleboro Academy in the One son and four daughters resulted from village of lyanghorne. Our subject remained this union, namely: William; Elizabeth; under the parental roof until his father's Catherine ; Mary ; and a daughter unnamed. death, and from 1864 until 1868 conducted He passed from this life in the 30' s, when the hotel ; in that year he left the hotel and about forty-four years of age. embarked in the bottling business; in the

WARNER C, THOMPSON. ;;

BUCKS COUNTY 299

following year (1869) lie took charge of The May Aurelia. Mrs. Fine is a devoted mem-

Farmers' Hotel, located on Bath street, and ber of the Episcopal Church, is president of

conducted the same for three years, having several ladies' societies, is a teacher in the

sold the bottling business to his brother, Sabbath School, and is a lady held in dear

James S. In the spring of 1872, our subject esteem by a large circle of acquaintances. moved to Bensalem, this county, where for three years he conducted the Red I^ion

Hotel ; in April, 1875, he moved to Philadel- phia, where he had charge of a livery stable ARNER C. THOMPSON, whose time in the following year he returned some ; Wiportrait is shown on the opposite to Bristol, and in 1877 took charge of his page, the son of Albert and Susanna (Carey) present hotel, one of the best hotels in the Thompson, was born in Wrightstown town-

borough of Bristol. ship, April 7, 1848.

Mr. Fine is an unwavering Republican in The Thompson family is of Scotch-Irish politics, and has contributed much toward descent and came to Bucks County in the the success of the party in his community early part of 1700. Elizabeth (McGrandy)

he has served as notary of the public a num- Thompson with four . sons took up a tract of

ber of years ; has served as a "delegate to land along the Neshaminy. Mr. Thompson's

county conventions several times ; was dele- home, since he was two years of age, has

gated twice to represent his district at the been on a part of the original tract and he is

state convention ; and was appointed post- a direct descendant of those first settlers. master in August, 1889, by President Harri- Albert Thompson, the father of our sub-

son and remained in that oflSce until March, ject, was born in Northampton township,

1895. Socially, he is a member of Bristol and spent the greater part of his life on the

Lodge, No. 25, F. & A. M. ; and Knights of farm where our subject now resides, engaged

Birmingham, No. 8, of Philadelphia. Our in agricultural pursuits. He was successful

subject also served as deputy sheriff under in his chosen ' occupation. He and his wife Sheriff Samuel L. Ely. Mr. Fine formed a are now residing in Newtown, Bucks Coun- matrimonial alliance with Jennie E. Fer- ty, Pa. In 1844, he was joined in the bonds guson, a native of New York City, but reared of wedlock with Susanna Carey of Wrights- in Philadelphia, and a daughter of Jesse R. town township, and this marriage was blessed and Elizabeth (Webb) Ferguson. Mr. and by the birth of two children : Warner C, the Mrs. Fine are the parents of the following gentleman whose name heads this biography;

children : William Parker H. ; Budd and Amos W., who died at the age of four ; James

D.; Jennie, the wife ot Dr. Francis I/. Ab- years. bott Jesse died, aged ten years ; Lilly M. Warner C. Thompson was married in 1871 ; died, to M. Ely, a native of Upper Make- Susan D. ; Laura R.; Dorance Lee aged Lydia two years ; Agnes also died in infancy ; and field township, and a daughter of Joseph S. ; ;

300 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Ely and Phoebe (Cadwallader) Ely. Mr. Ely session of his son, Amos. Politically, he was was a wheelwright by trade, and sherifiF of a Whig, and when that party was dissolved Bucks County a number of years. Two he joined the ranks of the Republican party children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. religiously, he and his wife were members of

Thompson, namely: Albert J., born Septem- the Society of Friends. He passed from this ber 27, 1873, is a dealer in lumber and coal life in 1888, and his death was mourned by a at Wycombe, Pa.; and Louis E., born Octo- host of acquaintances. Mr. Headly was joined ber 21, 1877. in matrimonial bonds with Elizabeth Brown,

who was born at Penn's Manor, Pa., June 29,

1 816. She traces her ancestral history back kRS. ELIZABETH (BROWN) to George Brown, who was born in England, HEADIvY is one of the highly and who came to America prior to or about

esteemed ladies of the borough the time of William Penn ; he was the father

of Bristol, where she has been a resident for of nine sons, one of whom was Samuel, the so many years, and is a worthy representative next in line of descent, who also married and

of one of the first families to settle in this reared a family of nine sons. Samuel be-

section of Bucks County. She is the widow longed to the Society of Friends. Of his of Thomas Headly, who was born in Tully- sons, John, the great-grandfather of our sub- town, this county, in November, 1801, and ject, was born in Bristol township, Bucks who was a son of Joseph Headly, and grand- County, and was commonly known as the son of Joseph Headly. "fox hunter;" he owned a large number of

Joseph Headly, Jr., resided in Tullytown, slaves and kept a pack of hounds, and hunt- where he owned a large estate, and he suc- ing was his chief pastime. He also owned cessfully carried on agricultural pursuits, considerable land and was well-to-do finan-

and in addition operated a mill ; he and his cially. He erected a house in the village of brother were also interested in a fishery Emilie, Bristol township, many years before

which had been built by their grandfather. the Revolutionary War, and this house is still Joseph Headly was married to Edith Bur- standing in a state of perfect preservation, and

gess, and they reared two daughters and five is one of the old landmarks of that section. sons; religiously, he and his family were One of his children was John Brown, the members of the Society of Friends. grandfather of our subject, and he was also a Thomas Headly was born and reared on farmer. He married Martha Harvey, by the homestead, and was educated to agricul- whom he reared three sons and one daughter, tural pursuits, which he made his life work in namely : Moses, the father of our subject connection with operating the saw, grist and Abraham ; David ; and Ann. John and plaster mills that stood on the homestead. Martha Brown were prominent members of He retired in 1873, and moved to the borough the Society of Friends. Moses Brown was of Bristol, and left his farm and mills in pos- born at Penn's Manor in 1786, and was a BUCKS COUNTY 301

prominent farmer, and owned a large estate township, and two children have blessed their

in Falls township ; several years prior to his home, namely : Irene, the wife of William H.

death he retired to the borough of Bristol, Skirm, of Trenton, N. J., and they have two

where he purchased the house in which our children, Catherine and Amos B. ; and Edith. subject now resides, and there he spent his Mrs. Elizabeth Headly has passed her

remaining days in happiness and comfort. eighty-second year, and is now on the

He passed from this earth in 1 874, and was sunny slope of life ; she is enjoying excellent

cared for in his old age by his daughter, health for one of her years ; is spending her Elizabeth Headly. He married Ann Harvey, latter days in Bristol in the home left her by

father, is and they reared five daughters ; his wife died her and surrounded by a large circle at the age of fifty-nine years. of friends who cherish and hold her in dear Thomas and Elizabeth Headly were the esteem.

proud parents of four children, named as fol-

lows : Elwood died in 1868; Anna M., who died in 1871, was the wife of David Brown ,ROF. WIIvIylAM H. a ; SLOTTER,

Amos B. , and Harvey, who died aged three respected and honored educator,

years. who is most highly esteemed for Amos B. Headly, the only surviving child, his success in matters of an educational

is now residing in Tullytown and follows nature, has been superintendent of the public

farming ; he was born in Bristol township, schools of Bucks County for a period of

March 30, 1842, and received his education in almost twelve years. Ever since completing his native township at Carversville Academy his intellectual training he has been deeply and at Eastman's Business College at Pough- interested in school work, and in 1887 his keepsie, N. Y. Farming and milling were efforts were crowned with the prominence his chief occupations, and in after years he which they so richly merited by his election

also carried on lumbering. In 1875, he to his present position. He has exhibited rented his mill and now attends strictly to marked qualifications for the position, and

farming. He is a member of Bristol I^odge, during his term of ofiice has added greatly to

No. 25, F. & A. M. ; director of the Bucks the efficiency of the schools throughout the County Mutual Farm & Building Associa- county. Prof. Slotter comes of an old and well tion ; director of the Industrial State Fair

Association, of which he is superintendent of established family of the county, and is of

the machinery department ; and is treasurer German descent. His great-grandfather was of the borough of Tullytown. In politics he Anthony Slotter, who was born in Germany,

is a Republican, and represents Bucks County where he lived until coming to this country. at the State Hospital for the Insane at Norris- He located upon a farm in Bedminster town- town, Pa. He was married in 1868 to Emma ship, Bucks County, where he followed agri- T. Ivins, a daughter of Isaac Ivins, of Falls cultural pursuits during the remainder of his ;

302 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

days. He had two children, one of whom, at the present day, namely : William H., the Anthony, the grandfather of our subject, was subject of this biographical record, who

born, lived and died upon the farm settled makes his home in Doylestown ; Anna Maria, by his father. He too was a farmer by occu- the wife of Abel Stover of Doylestown ; Leah, pation and a man of great worth to the com- the wife of Milton Crouthamel, who lives on munity. Religiously, he was a devout mem- the old homestead Jacob Titus, a resident ;

ber of the Tohickon Lutheran Church. He of Lahaska, this county ; Martha H., the wife

was joined in Hymen's bonds with Elizabeth of Lewis Ott, of Rockhill ; Anthony K., who Idem, who was born May 22, 1777, and they is farming his father's place; Aaron H.,

reared three children : John, deceased ; Mary, whose home is in Philadelphia ; A. Lincoln,

deceased ; and Jacob. Mr. Slotter was called a resident of Mechanicsville ; Barbara Ann, Home in 1825, and his wife joined him in the wife of Aaron Landis, of Buckingham the unknown beyond in 1862, in the eighty- township ; and Reuben H. , who is located fifth year of her age. upon a portion of his father's farm. Those Slotter, Jacob the father of the gentleman who are deceased are : Elizabeth H. ; Mary- whose name heads these lines, was born on Ann; and John H. Jacob Slotter was be- the homestead in Bedminster township, Oc- reaved of the companionship of his beloved

tober 31, 1815, and was but ten years of age wife by death, January 9, 1886. when deprived of a father's protection and advice. He lived with his mother until after his marriage, and, like his forefathers, prose-

cuted- that most honorable of callings, farm- USTIN O'CONNELL, M.D., one of ing. He moved to Haycock township, and the rising young physicians and sur- after one year there moved to Tiriicum town- geons of Bucksville, Pa., who has ship, where he his made home for two years. been practicing his chosen profession in this He then moved to Bedminster township, and section since 1897, was born and reared in lived along the Tohickon for about eight Nockamixon township, Bucks County, Pa., years, when he located on the old Fretz on the old O'Connell homestead, and is a son farm in which he 1854, purchased two years of Isaac D. and Joanna (McCarty) O'Connell, later. He has always been an industrious grandson of Philip and Ann (Brenen) O'Con- and upright man, and greatly respected by nell, and great-grandson of Hugh and Cath- his neighbors, many of whom have been his erine O'Connell. life-long friends. In religious attachments Hugh O'Connell was born in County Long- he is a member of the Tohickon Reformed ford, Ireland, and resided there all his life Church. In 1843 he formed a matrimonial his wife was also born and reared there. They alliance with lycah Hockman, who was born were the parents of a family of children, one August and they 24, 1823, became the parents of whom was Philip, the grandfather of our of thirteen children, ten of whom are living subject, -who was born in Longfordtown, ;

BUCKS COUNTY 303

County Longford, Ireland; he possessed a whom he reared one son, Harry ; Peter was

fine education -whicli he received in the twice married, his first wife was Mary A. schools of his native town, and then began Doyle, and they became the parents of four teaching as a means of obtaining a liveli- children, Frank, Lizzie, Ann and William,

hood ; not being suited with the position he his second wife was Rebecca Barr, who bore had attained in life in his native country and him a family of six children, who were named believing that a new country afforded better as follows, Russell, Charles, Floyd, Philip,

opportunities for an ambitious young man to Mary and Sally ; Eleanor ; Isaac D., the seek a fortune, he accordingly came to the father of our subject, and John, who died in United States, locating in Doylestown, this 1872, aged twenty-eight years.

county. His first employment was with Sam- Isaac D. O' Connell was born on the home-

uel Yardley, of that town, who owned and stead in Nockamixon township November 25,

operated a linseed oil mill, and our subject's 1 84 1, and was educated in the district schools grandfather was manager of the same for a he always remained with his parents and

period of fifteen years. In 1 847, Philip be- cared for them during their latter days. He

came a resident of Nockamixon township, is an upright and enterprising farmer and is where he purchased a tract of land of Andrew recognized as one of the valued members of

Heller, which consisted of 84 acres ; he at his community ; in connection with his farm- once set about making many improvements ing he successfully carries on dairying. Poli- upon the same, and in addition to carrying on tically, Mr. O'Connell was a Democrat and general farming he taught school during the served as county recorder from 1890 until winter months, teaching in all some thirty- 1893. He was united in the bonds of matri- one years. Philip O' Connell was one of the mony with Joanna McCarty, a daughter of prominent and progressive men of his com- Nicholas and Julianna (Kohl) McCarthy, and munity and was a man greatly respected by. to this happy union a family of three children his fellow-countrymen. He was a Democrat was born, namely: Lucinda, deceased, Anas- in politics, and served six years as assessor. tatia, and Austin, whose name heads these

Mr. O'Connell passed from this life June 25, brief lines.

1 89 1, in his eighty-fifth year, dying at St. Dr. Austin O'Connell received his early Agnes' Hospital, Philadelphia, his death re- mental training in the public schools of sulting from an operation. He was joined in Bucksville and then prepared himself for col- marriage with Ann Brenen, daughter of lege in the I>salle Preparatory College of

Nicholas and Ellen (Brenen) Brenen ; she Philadelphia ; having decided upon a medical was born in County Cavan, Ireland, and died career, he entered the Jefferson Medical Col- on the homestead at the age of seventy-two lege of Philadelphia, and was graduated with years. The following children resulted from the class of 1897. Dr. O'Connell immedi- this union : Hugh, a resident of PhcEuixville, ately returned to his father's home in Bucks- Pa., was wedded to Caroline McCarty, by ville, where he has since continued his pro- ;

304 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

fession, and during this short time has built chased the present homestead, buying di- up a very nice practice in which his success rectly from the Penns, and the property has has shown him to be a master of his profes- been in the possession of the family up to sion. Dr. O' Connell thoroughly understands the present day. According to records, the the intricacies of his calling and bids fair to road that runs through the farm was laid out

rank among the foremost physicians and sur- in 1793. He erected a log house and saw

geons of Bucks County. Religiously, Dr- mill, both of which are still in good condi- O'Connell is a member and liberal supporter tion, and are landmarks of the district; he of the Roman Catholic Church at Bucksville. cleared the land and carried on agricultural pursuits the remainder of his active days. As a result of his marriage with Mary Essey,

the following children were born : John Nich- H. YOUNGKEN, one of the Y^TENRY olas ; Michael ; Abraham ; Mrs. Conrad I^ut- r^ worthy and influential farmers and roe; Mrs. Anthony Huffman; and Elizabeth. -*- V millers of Nockamixon township, John Nicholas Youngken, the father of whom the people of northern Bucks County our subject, was born on the homestead, and have regarded for the past two score and ten was reared to agricultural pursuits, which years as a typical representative of the agri- occupation he continued through his entire cultural class, is descended from one of life the ; he also operated the mill that stood on pioneer settlers of Southeastern Pennsylva- the land. He was joined in marriage with nia. The gentleman, whose name heads the Mary Young, and they became the parents above lines, was born and reared on his pre- of the following children : John married Ma- sent homestead, and is a son of John Nicho- rie Kressler; Nicholas farmed on the home- las and Mary (Young) Youngken, and grand- stead a number of years; Jesse moved out son of John and Mary (Essey) Youngken. West, where he now resides; Heniy H., our John Youngken was a native of England, subject; Abraham wedded Mary Franken- where he was reared to manhood; in com- field ; Sarah married William Mensch ; Mary pany with his brother, Harmon, he immi- is the wife of John Mussehnan Julia married ; grated to the new and uncultivated lands of John Kohl ; and Catherine, the wife of Charles America, locating in Nockamixon township, Sellner. The father of our subject passed this county, prior to the Revolutionary War from this life aged seventy-six years ; his wife his first purchase was in the northwestern died at the age of eighty-seven years. part of the township, and the land is now the Our subject possesses a fine education, property of a Mr. Haney. He was a black- which he received in the district schools of smith by trade, but upon coming to this his native township, and at an early age country he did not pursue that occupation began to learn the trade of a cabinetmaker, to a large extent, farming being his principal which vocation he followed at Bethlehem occupation. I,ater, John Youngken pur- and Easton, Pa., until 1858. He then gave

MR. AND MRS. JOHN N. YOUNGKEN. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 307

up his trade and returned to the homestead, Youngken, and great-grandson of John and where he has since been engaged in farming Mary (Essey) Youngken. in partnership with his brother Nicholas. John Youngken, the great-grandfather of They rebuilt the mill, which they also our subject, was born and reared in England, operate in connection with farming. Our and during his early manhood learned the subject is highly esteemed by his .neighbors -trade of a blacksmith, which occupation he and by a large circle of acquaintances,' and pursued 'in his native .cou^n try but a short takes an active interest in .any enterprise that time, when,he ;and his brother Harmon im- tends to benefit the conditions: of his fellow- nligrated to America, which was prior to the

countrymen. Revolutionary i War, John j located in the Mr. Youngken was united .in. marriage iiortliern .part of Nockamixon township, with Annie lycnning, a daughter of Adam isv;here he purchased a tract of land, which is

I/Cnning, and this union has been .blessed by -now the property of a Mr, Haney ; later he the birth of four children, namely..: Alice, ,p.Urchased:the^ present Youngken homestead, the wife of Robert Carlaw o.f Philadelphia, which; is still in the possession of his de-

. the and they have one child, David,M.; John iscendants ; he purchased directly from N., whose sketch may also be found, in. this Penns, and; upon his new purchase he erected Book of Biographies; Abraham. wedded Eva a. log, house and saw mill, ;wliich are still

Overholzer, and they reside.. in Philadelphia; sjtanding. and ,-in good condition. He was and Emma, the wife of West jFahe,n of Bucks- .united in. marriage with Mary Essey, who ville, this county, and they. are ihe p.ar-euts'^of bore him a family of six children, namely:

' ; one child, Edith May. Mr'. YoUngken. and John Nicholas ; jVIichael Abraham; Mrs.

family are devoted members' of the -lyUtherah •Conrad I^utroe;. Mrs_. Anthony Huffman ; and

' Church. > ; i. : : EUzabfet.h. ,' Youngken, the grandfather ; Johu Nicholas:

of our .subject, was born , and reared on his father's. farm in Nockamixon township; he 'OHN N. youngken; owner and pro- was educated to agricultural .pursuits,' which prietor of the best hotel in northern vocatio.n he, followed: throughout his active Bucks County,—the, Central Hotel, days.. John, Nicholas was, united in the bonds located at Riegelsville, Pa., —is one of the of wedlock with Mary Young, and this union prominent and influential citizens of the vil- was blessed by the following children : John

Kressler ; Nicholas had posses- lage ; this worthy and esteemed citizen was married Marie born on the old Youngken homestead in sion of the homestead a number of years Nockamixon township, the date of his birth Jesse early in life went West, where he still being August 15, 1862, and he is a son of resides; Henry H., our subject's father;

Henry H. and Annie (penning) Youngken, Abraham married Mary Frankenfield ; Sarah grandson of John Nicholas and Mary (Young) was the wife of William Mensch ; Mary is ;

3o8 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIKS

the wife of John Musselmen Julia was wed- the farm. Arriving at manhood he became ;

ded to John Kohl ; and Catherine, the wife driver for Wilaball Kubeler, of Easton, Pa., of Charles Sellner. Our subject's grandfather and remained at that work for a period of five

died aged seventy-six years, and his wife years ; at the expiration of that time he be- died at the age of eighty-seven years. came landlord of the Chapman Quarry's Henry H. Youngken, the father, of our Hotel, in Northampton County, and con-

subject, was also born and reared on the ducted the same for four years. In 1895, our homestead, and was educated in the district subject purchased the Central Hotel at Riegel-

schools of Nockamixon township ; in early ville. Pa., of Edward Deamer. The Central

life he learned the trade of a cabinetmaker, Hotel was built by Allen Fritz, about 1876,

which occupation he followed at Bethlehem and it has been greatly remodeled into the

and Easton, Pa., until 1858 ; in that year he handsomest hotel in the northern part of gave up his trade and returned to the home- Bucks County. It is a two-story structure; stead, where he and his brother Nicholas contains seventeen large rooms and a large have since been engaged in general farming. dining room elegantly furnished ; a piazza Since taking possession of the homestead that extends around three sides of the hotel, they have rebuilt the mill, which they oper- which adds greatly to the appearance of the ate in addition to farming. Our subject's house and affords much pleasure to the

father is widely known throughout his sec- guests ; and surrounding the hotel is a beau- tion of the county and commands the respect tiful and well-kept lawn and a large variety of a large circle of acquaintances. He chose of flowers and shrubbery. Mr. Youngken is for his life companion Annie penning, a a hospitable and genial landlord, and is held daughter of Adam I/cnning, and they have in high esteem by his many acquaintances. reared four children, who were named as fol- Our subject also keeps a large barn, and takes lows : Alice married Robert Carlow, of Phil- great pride in riding behind some of the best adelphia, and one child, David M., has been horses in this part of the state. born to them; John N., the subject of this Our subject's wife, who is a pleasant and narrative : Abraham was united in marriagfe affable lady and does her part in assisting him with Eva Overholzer, and they are residents in his enterprise, was known to her friends of Philadelphia; and Emma, the wife of before her marriage as I^illie T. McCarty West Faben, of Bucksville, this county, and she is a daughter of Charles and Lizzie (Yost) the mother of one child, Edith May. Mr. McCarty, and granddaughter of Paul Abner and Mrs. Youngken are active members and and Louise (Mclntyre) McCarty. Paul A. liberal supporters of the lyutheran Church. McCarty was a son of Nicholas McCarty, one John N. Youngken acquired a liberal edu- of the early settlers of Haycock township, cation in Uie schools common of his native this county, who died in 1848, aged eighty- township, and his boyhood days were spent seven years. Paul A. McCarty had two in assisting his father in the work about brothers, Thomas and John. He was a BUCKS COUNTY 309

farmer by vocation and resided on the home- the possession of Thomas Wall, of Lumber-

stead. He was born March 14, 1799, and ville, this county: "George Wall, son of died April 11, 1869. His wife passed from George Wall, grandson of George Wall, and this life aged eighty-nine years. They were great-grandson of George Wall, who was

the . parents of the following children : Pres- born June 12, 1745." The last mentioned ton ; Eleazer; Nathan; Charles; Nicholas; was the great-great-grandfather of the subject

Enoch ; Thomas Y. ; Hannah ; and Eliza- of this biographical record. He was a soldier beth. Charles McCarty was born in Hay- in the Revolutionary War, and purchased cock township, and was a farmer all his life property in Solebury ; township, Bucks Coun- he farmed in Bedminster, Ottsville, Burson- ty, where he lived during the latter years of ville, and Stony Point, all in Bucks County, his life. His name appears attached to deeds

Pa., and died at the latter village March 6, and records in transferring property in Sole- 1892, aged fifty-seven years. He was mar- bury township, as does also the name of ried to Lizzie Yost, who was born March 10, George Wall upon many older records, which 1836, and died March 8, 1893. This union shows that this well-known family was was blessed by one child, Lizzie M., the wife among the earliest settlers of the township. of our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Youngken are The name George has descended from father the parents of one child, Florence Adeline, to son in this family through six generations. who died aged six months. Mr. Youngken, Mr. Wall was united in marriage with Sarah in his political views sides with the Demo- Kitchen, August 10, 1770, at Amwell, N. J., crats; religiously, he and his devoted wife the ceremonies being those established by are members of the Catholic Church. We the Church of England. Mrs. Wall was a present on a preceding page a portrait of Mr. daughter of Thomas Kitchen. and Mrs. Youngken. George Wall, the great-grandfather of our subject, was born at Amwell, N. J., April i, 1779, and was a farmer by occupation, spending the latter years of his Hfe at that vocation ILL/IS WAIvL, a well-known and in Solebury township. His companion along 1:^:influential citizen of Doylestown, the pathways of life was Sarah Closson, and is engaged in the insurance business, and is they became the parents of George, the serving in an official capacity as justice of the grandfather of our subject, who was a native peace of Doylestown borough, Bucks County. and life-long resident of Solebury township. He is a son of George and Sarah (Lear) Wall, The latter George was a mill-wright by trade, and was born in Warwick township, Bucks which he followed in connection with farming. County, March 14, 1844; He was united in marriage with Sarah Closson, The family is either of Welsh or Irish by whom he had a large family of children, origin, and the following record is extracted one of whom was George, our subject's father. from an old family Bible, which is now in George Wall was born in Solebury town- ; ;

3IO BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

ship, December 26, 1804, and there grew to political belief, he is a stanch supporter of manhood. After attaining his majority, he the Democratic party, and has often been moved to Warwick township, where he spent called upon to serve as a delegate to conven- the remainder of his life employed at the tions. He served as justice of the peace at craft of a shoemaker. The final summons Warrington for a period of eleven years, and came in June, 1890, after a long and useful resigned upon moving to Doylestown, where life of eighty-six years. In his political affili- he was also elected to that office in February, ations, he was an unswerving Democrat. As 1895. He is also general agent for a number a result of his matrimonial alliance with of the most substantial and reliable insur- I^ear Sarah he became the father of six sons ance companies in the world, namely : the and five daughters, of whom Willis was the North British of I^ondon, the Mercantile In- tenth born. surance Company of Edinburgh, and the Willis Wall was reared in Warwick town- Caledonian Insurance Company of Scotland. ship, and acquired a good education in the He does a large and remunerative business common schools, after which he turned his throughout the county, and is held in high attention to tilling the soil, hiring out as a esteem by every one with whom he is asso- farm hand at the age of twelve years. He ciated in business and social circles. continued at that work until he was eighteen Mr. Wall was united in the holy bonds of years of age, or until September 6, 1861, wedlock with Kate B. Fryling, of Bucking- when he went to Doylestown and enlisted in ham township, November 12, 1872, and they Co. A, 104th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf , serving for are the proud parents of three children : Let- nearly thirty-seven months in the Civil War tie F., who was born in 1873; Raymond, he received his honorable discharge Septem- who died in infancy, aged eighteen months ber at 30, 1864, Philadelphia. He made a and Irene P., who is an interesting child of good reputation as a brave and faithful ser- eight years. Socially, he is a member of vant to his country, in the hour of peril, Fisher Post, No. loi, G. A. R., of Hatboro. serving with McClellan in the Peninsular Campaign and later participated in the siege of Charleston. After leaving the service, he returned to Warwick township, and worked TT^HRISTOPHER S. GUUCK, county as a laborer for one year, and then took up register of wills, is I J[ a valued and much the trade of a carpenter, which he continued ^Si. respected citizen of the borough of until 1873. In that year, he removed to War- Doylestown, and has been a life-long resident rington township, and engaged in carpenter- of Bucks County. He was born in Hilltown ing until 1 89 1, when he was elected to the township, June 11, 1859, and is a son of Me- office of clerk of the Orphans' Court for a rari and Christinna (Swartz) Gulick. three years' term. He moved to Doylestown The paternal ancestry of our subject is of and has since made his residence there. In Welsh origin, while the maternal side is of ;

BUCKS COUNTY 311

German extraction. The great-grandfather of senberger John ; Amelia ; Lydia ; Margaret ; our subject was Samuel Gulick, a native and and Christinna, the mother of our subject. life-long resident of Northampton County, Mr. and Mrs. Gulick reared a family of five

Pa. His son, Jonathan, the grandfather of our sons and two daughters, as follows : Mary, subject, was also born in Northampton Coun- the wife of William D. Yocum, a farmer of ty, but in 1818 he settled in Towamensing the wife of Hilltown township ; Urey, Joseph township, Montgomery County, residing there B. Allabach, also a farmer of Hilltown town- until 1870, engaged in the cultivation of the ship Jonathan, a farmer of Hilltown town- ;

soil. In that year he became a resident of ship ; O. Aaron resides in Philadelphia ; Me-

Hilltown township, this county, where he re- rari, deceased ; Samuel S. is justice of the sided until death claimed him, which was in peace and an auctioneer of Rockhill town- at the age of seventy-seven years. He 1873, ship ; Christopher S., the subject of this me- was a member of the Reformed Church. He moir ; and John, deceased.

was joined in marriage with Urey Aaron, and Christopher S. Gulick was reared to man- they reared a family of one son and three hood in Hilltown township, and obtained his daughters, namely: Merari, our subject's elementary education in the schools of the father; Harriet, Isabella, and Urey, all de- vicinity and at the Sellersville High School. ceased. At nineteen years of age he began teaching, Merari Gulick was born on his father's and taught one year in Bedminster township, farm in Montgomery County, in 1819, and and ten years in his native township, of

was reared to manhood in that county ; in which eight years were spent teaching in one

1843, he came to Hilltown township and pur- school at Blooming Glen. In the fall of 1895, chased a farm of 1 17 acres, which he still he was elected to the office of register of

owns and has put it under a fine state of cul- wills of Bucks County, which position he is tivation. He followed the markets some filling with great credit to himself and con-

twenty-nine years and was a cattle drover stituents; his term expires January i, 1899.

many years. He and his family are mem- In politics, Mr. Gulick is an unwavering bers of the German Reformed Church. In Republican, and in 1889, under Harrison's ad-

1 84 1, he was united in marriage with Chris- ministration, he was appointed deputy col- tinna Swartz, who was born in 18 19 and died lector of internal revenue for Bucks County.

in 1877. She was a daughter of Christian In 1 894, he embarked in the mercantile busi- Swartz who was a native and life-long resi- ness with M. H. Leidy, the firm name being dent of New Britain township, this county, lycidy & Gulick, and they dissolved partner-

and his vocation was that of a farmer. Mr. ship two years later. Our subject has contri- Swartz married Mary Funk, and they be- buted much toward the success of his chosen

came the parents of eight children, namely : party in the community, and has been dele- F. Elizabeth, the wife Andrew ; of John gated to national, state and county conven-

Rosenberger ; Mary, the wife of Samuel Ro- tions. He was elected justice of the peace BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

three sons and five daughters, of Hilltown township in 1885, and served in in the advent of

collec- namely: Jesse; Tunis Jonathan ; Mary; I/U- that capacity until he was appointed ; Martha; and Hannah. tor of internal revenue. Religiously, he is cretia; Katherine; socially, Lucretia is now Mrs. Paxson, and lives in a member of the Reformed Church ; Mr. Hellings and family were he is a member of MacCalla lyodge, F. & A. Bristol, Pa. R. A. M. prominent members of the Christian Church M. ; Doylestown Chapter, No. 270, ; of the organ- Perkasie L,odge, No. 671, I. O. O.F.; and is at Tullytown, and he was one past high priest of the Doylestown Encamp- izers of that society and had charge of the in 1822. He died in ment, No 35, I. O. O. F. Mr. Gulick was erection of the church joined in the bonds of matrimony, February March, 1837, while his wife died in 1852. subject, 28, 1885, with Emma H. Moyer, a daughter Jesse Hellings, the father of our of Rev. Abraham and Hester (Huntsberger) was born in Bristol township in 181 2, and Moyer, and they are the proud parents of five' spent his entire life on the old homestead, children, namely: Aaron, Mabel, Gertrude having purchased a part of the interests of Hester, Blanche, and Russell Blair. the heirs upon the death of his mother. He was a well-informed gentleman, a progressive and enterprising citizen, and was held in high esteem by many acquaintances. In politics, yOMU]DMUND R. HELUNGS, who has been he was a solid Republican. Fraternally, he I XL a life-long resident of Bristol was a member of the Bristol Lodge, No. 25, township, is gate keeper on the turnpike road F. & A. M. He was a strong advocate of the between Bristol and TuUytown. This prom- temperance cause. His wife was Elizabeth

inent and much-respected citizen was born lya Rue, of Falls township, born in 18 15, and on his father's farm in Bristol township in a daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Vande-

1838, and is a son of Jesse and Elizabeth grift) La Rue ; they reared the following

(Iva Rue) Hellings, and grandson of John children : Edmund R. ; William H., who

Hellings. died in childhood; John P., deceased ; Ange-

John Hellings, the grandfather of our sub- line, who is now deceased, was the wife of

ject, was born about 1752, and resided in Thomas C. Ivins, of Penn's Manor, Pa. ; and

Bristol township the major part of his days, Jesse L,. The oldest and youngest children engaged in the cultivation of the soil. He are the only ones in the family now living, was a very prominent man of his day, serving with the exception of the mother, who resides

as supervisor of the town, and holding many with her youngest son. She is a member of other township offices. His first wife was the Christian Church ; her husband died in Anna Bennett, by whom he reared two sons, February, 1892.

John and Samuel, and three daughters. His Edmund R. Hellings, after attaining his second wife was Hannah Bowman, a daugh- majority, enlisted in the Union Army in ter of Daniel this Bowman, and union resulted May, 1 86 1, becoming a member of Co. I, 3rd BUCKS COUNTY 3^3

Pennsylvania Reserves. He served a year He left a widow, who was before marriage and a half, and was shot twice in the shoulder M. Christine Vaudegrift, a daughter of Alfred

in the Seven Days Battle, was taken a pris- and Catherine (Gibbs) Vandegrift, of Edding- oner at Charles City Cross Roads, and was ton, Bensalem township, and two children,

held twenty-two days in Libby Prison, when namely: Edmund S. and Elizabeth L,., both he was exchanged and brought to the hos- of whom reside with their mother at Wil- pital in Philadelphia; there he was dis- mington, Del.

charged September 17, 1862. Returning home, he began farming on the homestead,

continuing there until the fall of 1868, when

he rented a farm in Lower Makefield town- R. W. G. BENNER is the leading ship. In March, 1892, he gave up farming, veterinarian of Doylestown, Pa., and, selling his farm, accepted a position as Ji where he has very successfully oc- gate-keeper on the turnpike road between cupied himself in the duties that pertain to

Bristol and Tullytown. He is a strong Re- his profession since 1890, having received his publican and has served as assessor three diploma in that year from the Ontario Veter- years, as real estate assessor two years, and as inary College at Toronto, Canada. The doc- school director one term of three years. tor was born in South White Hall township,

Mr. Hellings was married, in 1867, to Ivchigh County, Pa., December 27, 1867,

Rachael J. Carter, of Bristol township, who and is a son of Thomas W. and Hannah was born in 1844, and is a daughter of Charles (Jacobs) Benner and grandson of Abraham

and Rachael (Farrell) Carter ; this union has Benner,

been blessed by the birth of one child, Frank This prosperous family is of German origin, H., a telegraph operator. Socially, our sub- and Abraham Benner, the grandfather of our ject is a member of the G. A. R. Post, No. 73. subject, was born in Springfield township, John P. Hellings, a brother of our subject, this county, where he resided the major part

enlisted in the Civil War in the fall of 1 862, in of his active days, engaged in the cultivation

Co. G., 119th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf, and served of the soil. At the time of his death he was three years. At the battle of the Wilderness residing in Montgomery County, Pa. He he was wounded and again at the battle of had born to him three sons and two daugh- Petersburg; he was at the front in many a ters. Prior to the Civil War he was engaged hard and bloody engagement, and always dis- in general farming; he was an industrious played the courage and fearlessness of a true and an economic farmer and accumulated a American soldier. After peace had been re- competency, but at the breaking out of the stored throughout the land, he returned home, Rebellion he lost nearly all his fortune. where he engaged as a clerk in a store ; later Thomas W. Benner was a native of Spring- he took up farming, and at 'the time of his field township. As a young man he went to death, which was in 1885, he was railroading. Philadelphia, where he found employment in ;

314 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

a linseed oil mill, studying during the even- the Pennsylvania State Veterinary Medical ings, preparing himself for a teacher. He Association, of which he was secretary three

moved to Montgomery County, where he years. Politically, the doctor is a firm Re-

opened a pay school. He was afterwards publican and has held local borough offices.

elected organist to a church, which position In his religious views, he is a member of the

he filled at different places, being organist Reformed Church. Fraternally, he is a mem- continually for thirty-two years at the Jordan ber of the Doylestown Lodge, No. 245, F. &

Reformed Church and Jordan I^utheran A. M. ; member and past chief of St. Tam-

Church. In connection with his other line many Castle, No. 273, K. of G. F. ; and the

of work he during this time engaged in manu- Royal Arcanum. October 6, 1888, Dr. Ben- facturing tombstones and in teaching. In ner and Fmma L. Sieger, a daughter of Owen 189S he retired and now lives near Siegers- Sieger, of Siegersville, Pa., were happily ville. Pa. As a result of his marriage with united in marriage, and they are the parents

Hannah Jacobs, a family of twelve children of three children, namely : Vernie Irene was born—eight daughters and four sons. Thomas Roy ; and Marion Sieger. Dr. Benner grew to manhood in South White Hall township, Lehigh County, and his intellectual training was obtained in the select schools of that vicinity ; upon leaving ^/^.ILMFR W. OTT, who is extensively school he taught from 1886 to 1888 in Lehigh V? Vi engaged in the coal business at and Northampton Counties, and during his Eddington Wharf, is also one of the good, last year, while teaching at Bethlehem, he substantial agriculturists of Bensalem town- took lectures in chemistry, Latin and Greek ship. No man has inspired the respect and in Lehigh University. Having decided upon confidence of the people to a higher degree. his present profession in the meantime, in the He is a son of Andrew and Eliza (Sipler) fall of 1888 he entered the Ontario Veterinary Ott, and was born on the farm of his father College at Toronto, Canada, and was gradu- in Bensalem township, Bucks County, Pa., ated from that institution April 3, 1890. He December 30, 1847. immediately located in Doylestown, where He comes of a sturdy German family, and he has since continued his chosen profession. is descended from William Ott, who was In the community, although a comparatively born in Germany, and upon coming to this young man, he is highly rated as having ex- country became a soldier in the Revolution- tremely good judgment and an experience ary War, actively participating until its which stands him in good stead in all the close. He lived to reach the very unusual varied duties of life. The doctor is eminently age of one hundred and two years, six months social and is esteemed and respected by all. and four days, and many of his descendants Dr. Benner in 1895 erected the Doylestown have also reached advanced ages before sub- Veterinary Sanitarium; he is a member of mitting to the inevitable, strong constitutions

'*'* •^'-^t^^^^,,,^./?*

--t-^^. :

BUCKS COUNTY 317

characterizing the members of the family home and followed farming on his own ac-

down to the present day. ' couut for three years, when he also embarked William Ott, the grandfather of our sub- in the coal business at Eddington Wharf.

ject, was born in Bucks County about 1777, His business prospered, and he has since con- and became a farmer. Politically, he was a tinued at that, in connection with agricul- member of the Democratic party. His wife, tural pursuits. He has made his home there,

Mary ly., died in 1849, leaving two children, where he cared for his parents during the Andrew and Rachel. last years of their lives with the devotion of

Andrew Ott, the father of the gentleman , a true son. He is a man of principle, and

whose name heads these lilies, was born in stands high in the esteem of his fellow-

1809, in Byberry, Philadelphia County, ' citizens. lyike his forefathers, he engaged in the culti- Mr. ,Ott was united in marriage with Sarah

vation of the soil, and after a time moved to ' Powell, who was boirn in Bensalem township Bensalem township, Bucks County, where he in 1843, and is a daughter of David and

resided on one farm for a period of twenty- ' Mary Ann (Moore) Powell,, and they are the

' eight years. He took an active interest in parents of one son, Francis K. , who was born

politics and all public affairs, at one time January 24, 1877. Our subject in his politi- serving as treasurer of Bucks County. He cal affiliations is a Democrat, and has filled was a strong supporter of the Democratic all of the township ofiices, at the present time

party, and often served as a delegate to con- i serving as county commissioner. He is a

ventions and held numerous township of- member of the Presbyterian Church, and is

fices. He was united in marriage with Eliza now serving as trustee. Mrs. Ott also be- Sipler, who was born in Bensalem township longs to the same religious organization, and in 1808, and was a daughter of Samuel Sip- is a member of the lyadies' Aid Society,

ler ; by her he had four children, namely

Charles who died at the age of two years : 1 ^ I E., ; Rachel, who died at the age of thirty-eight this years ; Wilmer W., the subject of per- fJJY'OHN ROBBINS, a retired and highly

sonal history ; and Mary, who passed away respected farmer of Falls township,

at the age of forty-four years. Mrs. Ott was Bucks County, who is now spending

called to her final rest March 15, 1896, and the sunset of life in the borough of Morris-

he joined her on the farther shore January 4, ville, is a typical representative of the agri- 1897. cultural class of his community, and is a Wilmer W. Ott was reared upon the farm worthy representative of one of the old and and attended the schools of Eddington and pioneer families of Falls township. Mr. Rob-

Center, after which he engaged in farming bins was born June 20, 1809, and is a son of on his father's farm, remaining there until Isaac I. and Jane (Thompson) Robbins, and he was thirty-five years of age. He then left grandson of John and Ann (Ivins) Robbins. 16* :;

3i8 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

John Robbins, the founder of this promi- Wilmington, Del., and his boyhood days were nent and prosperous family of Falls township, spent in assisting his father in the cultivation to was born in 175 1, in Freehold township, Mon- of the homestead ; when he grew manhood

mouth County, N. J., and was a son of Joseph, he took charge of the Robbins homestead and and grandson of Moses, who was a son of successfully carried on agricultural pursuits

Moses, Sr. , and grandson of Daniel, the until 1870, in that year retiring from the founder of this family in America, who emi- active duties of life and locating in Morris-

grated to America from England and settled ville, where he is enjoying the fruits of his

in New Jersey. John Robbins, the grand- early toil. Mr. Robbins is one of the honored father of our subject, was a farmer by trade, residents of the township, with whose inter- and followed that vocation in New Jersey ests he has always been prominently identi- until his death, which occurred in 1837. He fied, and commands the respect and esteem was joined in marriage with Ann Ivins, who of a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

was born in 1757, and who died in 1830. One Mr. Robbins has twice been united in mar-

child was the result of this marriage, Isaac I., riage ; in 1 836 he was joined in the bonds of the father of our subject, who was -born on wedlock with Mary Ivins, who was born in

the homestead in New Jersey, December 23, 1812, and who died in 1874. One child was

1782. Ke was educated in the district school born to them, Isaac I. , who died in childhood. and was reared to agricultural pursuits, and His second matrimonial alliance was with continued that occupation throughout his en- Mary E- Worthington, a daughter of Edward

tire life, having possession of the homestead and Cynthia (Carver) Worthington. Edward during his latter days. He entered the world Worthington, a prominent farmer of Buck- of rest June 21, 1823. He was united in ingham township, Bucks County, passed from

marriage with Jane Thompson, who was born this earth in 1857, at the age of thirty-seven

in Ireland in 1784; she passed from this life years ; his wife died at the age of seventy-three

March i, 1856, and was the mother of the years. They were the parents of a family of

following children : John, the subject of this nine children, who were named as follows

personal history ; Hector C, who died in 1894, Joseph ; Mary E. , the wife of our subject the of eighty-one at age years ; Isaac I., who Kizzie ; Sarah Silas ; Henry de- ; ; Edward, died in eighty-one 1896, aged years; James ceased ; and Cynthia (Carver). Mr. and Mrs. T., who died in 1896, aged seventy-eight Worthington were members of the Society of

years ; Ann I., who died in 1829, aged eleven Friends politically, he was a stanch Repub- ; years; and Joseph, born in 1821, who is a lican. prominent farmer of Falls township. Our Mr. Robbins was president of the Bucks subject's father was a prominent member of County Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and the Society of Friends. was one of its chief organizers in 1 870 ; and John Robbins received his intellectual train- had served as a director of the Line Lexing- ing in the private and boarding schools of ton Company seven years prior to the organ- ;

BUCKS COUNTY 319 ization of the first-named company. Mr. Christian Clemens was born in Bucks

Robbins has taken an active part in local County, where he resided all his life, en- and county politics, firmly supporting the gaged in the cultivation of the soil. Upon principles of the Republican party, and has attaining his manhood, he purchased a tract been honored with a seat in the State I/egis- of 175 acres in Doylestown township, just lature, being elected to that office in 1 846 outside the corporate limits of the then vil- has served ten years as justice of the peace lage of Doylestown. The old homestead is ; has been a school director; and has been a now in the possession of his grandsons, John member of the borough council. In religious and Lewis H. Clemens ; it was originally a belief he is a convert to the Society of Friends. portion of the Penn grant and was bought Mr. Robbins' portrait is shown on a preced- of him through his agents, John and Wil- ing page. liam Lacey, by Messrs. Growden and Lang-

horne, who transferred it to Robert Scott in

1753 ; in 1769, he in turn transferred the property to Valentine Kratz, who later sold

HE CI^EMENS FAMILY has been as- it to lyudwick Sweitzer, and from him Chris- sociated with the history and progress tian Clemens bought it in 1797. Christian of Bucks County, Pa. , for the past two cen- immediately took possession of the same, turies, and is one of the best known and and resided there until 'death claimed him, most highly respected families in the county. July 5, 1847. In addition to carrying on

This prosperous and well-to-do family is of agricultural pursuits, he was successfully en- Holland-Dutch extraction, and was founded gaged in lumbering and contracting. Politi- in America by three brothers, who came cally, he was an old line Whig and took an from Holland about the beginning of the intelligent interest in the affairs of his party, seventeenth century ; one of the brothers and filled most of the township offices, in- was Garrett Clemens, the lineal ancestor of cluding that of director of the poor. Relig- the branch of the family of which we treat, iously, he was a prominent member of the and father of George Clemens, the great- Mennonite Church. He was joined in the grandfather of the Clemens brothers, and he bonds of wedlock October 7, 1792, with Mary located in Bucks County. George Clemens Sweitzer, who died December 3, 1849, and was born in this county November 20, 1741, this union resulted in the birth of ten chil- and his wife, Elizabeth Clemens, was born dren, namely: Anna, born January 22, 1794;

April 10, 1744. They were the parents of Eliza, December 28, 1795; Catherine, June

George, September ; the following children : Abrahani, born June 19, 1797 ; 27, 1799 Eliza-

24, 1764; Christian, May 7, 1766; Cathe- beth, March i, 1802; Leah, June 16, 1804;

September 1 1 Jacob, rine, April 22, 1770; Mary, April 14, 1775; Lewis, 2, 806 ; Decem-

George, July 19, 1777; and Jacob, November ber 29, 1 808; Henry, December 20, 18 10; and February 6, 18 14. 7, 1779- John, ;

320 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

mile southeast of I^ewis Clemens was born on the home- acres, and situated one many ; then he has made stead, where he was educated to agricultural Doylestown since in the of erecting pursuits, and upon the death of his father improvements, both way the soil. At inherited 107 acres of the same. He was of buildings and in enriching of cul- a quiet disposition, but was a man of great present the land is under a fine state energy and perseverance, and was one of the tivation and the buildings are of the best few who made farming a financial success. he erected a handsome and commodious resi- Politically, he was an ardent Republican, dence, 2^ stories high, finished with brown

whilst in religious views, he was a member stone trimmings ; it contains eleven large of the Presbyterian Church. In 1838, he rooms and has all the conveniences of a was wedded to Eliza Kulp of Montgomery modern house. Mr. Clemens has retired County, and they became the proud parents from farming and is now engaged in selling of three sons, Jacob, John, and L,ewis H., fertilizers, agricultural implements, and whose personal sketches follow. Mr. Clemens Page's Woven Wire Fence. In 1895, Mr. organizers of departed this life June 3, 1883, and his wife Clemens became one of the

entered the world of rest in 1 848. the Republican Printing Company, which Jacob CIvEmens was born on the home- prints The Daily Republican^ one of the

stead October 8, 1840, and remained under leading journals of Bucks County. He has the parental roof until he attained the age of since served as a director and secretary of twenty-seven years, during which time he the Company. attended the public schools of the vicinity Mr. Clemens is an active and influential and later a private school. During the Civil worker of the Republican party, and has

War, upon Lincoln's first call for troops to filled nearly all the offices in Doylestown put down the Rebellion, Jacob was among township, and is now serving his third term

the first to go to the front, and enlisted in as school director ; he has also served as sec-

Co. K, 25th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., for a term of retary of the board several years. He has three months. His regiment marched through been frequently delegated to county and con- Virginia and Maryland and across the Poto- gressional conventions, and in 1886 he was

mac, but was never in any engagements ; at honored by his party with the nomination

the expiration of his term he returned home, for the office of State Senator, but, with the and with Samuel Hart raised a company rest of the ticket, went down with defeat during Lee's invasion of Pennsylvania, and before the Democratic landslide; although went out as a private. The following year his opponent was the late Hon. George Ross, he again went out with an emergency com- then one of the most popular and eminent pany, which was stationed at Hagerstown, attorneys of Bucks County, our subject suc- Md., to protect a large quantity of govern- ceeded in polling a full party vote. He and ment supplies and ammunition. In 1867, he his family are members and liberal supporters purchased his present farm, consisting of 80 of the Presbyterian Church of Doylestown, BUCKS COUNTY 321

of which he has served as a trustee. Frater- ing, he enlisted in Captain Hart's Emer- nally, he is a member of the General Robert gency Company, nth Regiment; in the ly. Bodine Post, No. 306, G. A. R., of which following year, when General I^ee invaded a he is past commander ; he has been delegated part of Pennsylvania, he again entered Cap- by that lodge to the state convention and has tain Hart's Emergency Company, 31st Regi- been inspector-at-large of this county for ment. Mr. Clemens is a well read and intel-

all three years ; he is also an honorary member ligent citizen, and is interested in en- of the A. O. U. W. On March 4, 1868, Mr. terprises that tend to promote the general

Clemens was united in the bonds of matri- welfare of the town ; he is popular and mony with Mary Meyers, a daughter of highly esteemed by all who know him. George and Margaret (Perkins) Meyers, and Mr. Clemens was joined in marriage May they are the parents of three children, 18, 1873, with Hannah Johnson, a daughter

namely : Harry M., who is farming the of David and Margaret Johnson, and they

homestead, wedded Alice Scott ; and Mar- have had several children born to them, all garet E. and Nannie, both living at home. of whom are deceased except Emma. Mrs. Mrs. Clemens' ancestors originally came from Clemens is a devoted member of the Baptist

Holland, and she is in the direct line of de- Church. Our subject is a member of the Pres- scent from Baron Von Moyer, whose descend- byterian Church. Politically, he is a decided ants came to this country prior to the Revo- Republican, and, although taking an unusual lutionary War. After a number of years' amount of interest in local politics, he has residence in America, the name of the family never sought public office. Fraternally, Mr. was changed to Meyers. Mrs. Clemens' Clemens belongs to the General Robert 1,. grandfather, Henry Meyers, served in the Bodine Post, No. 306, G. A. R. of Doyles- town, of which he is adjutant. Revolutionary War ; after its close he located in Philadelphia, where he engaged in Lewis H. Clemens, justice of the peace mercantile business, and where Mrs. Clemens' and senior member of the firm of Clemens & father was bom. George Meyers was also Palmer, florists of Doylestown, was born on engaged in the mercantile business all his the old Clemens homestead, November 22,

1 ; mentally equipped for the battles life. Both he and his wife died, when their 844 he was daughter, Mrs. Clemens, was in childhood. of life in the public schools and in the Doyles- possesses considerable Mrs. Clemens is the youngest of four chil- town Academy. He ability as an artist, and has executed dren, all of whom grew to maturity. She natural has done some very received her educational training in the some fine drawings and he has had flattering Moravian Seminary at Bethlehem, Pa. fine sign painting; artist on John Ci,Bmens was born on the home- offers to become a sketch metropolitan newspapers, and, had he accepted, he stead, January i, 1842. At twenty years of no doubt stood in the front ranks age, after the battle of Antietam had been would have illustrators. He takes consider- fought, being inspired with a patriotic feel- of artistic ;;

322 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

able interest in collecting relics, having OHN JACKSON BARNEY, a much many articles of historic interest: among respected citizen of the village of them are moccasins and arrows used by var- Cornwells, Bensalem township, Bucks

ious Indian tribes ; a flint-lock musket used County, Pa., has been engaged in the shoe

in the Revolutionary War ; revolvers used in business all his life and is now keeping a

committing murders and suicides; and many shoe store in the above village. He is a sou other articles of interest. He was engaged of Captain William Burlingham, and was

in the cultivation of the soil with his brother born in North Carolina, December 28, 1828. John until 1883, and was an energetic and Captain William Burlingham was of Scotch- prosperous farmer. Mr. Clemens in 1890 Irish origin; and was a prosperous planter formed a partnership with Reading Palmer, he was a captain of a company under General

under the firm name of Clemens & Palmer, Jackson during the War of 18 12. General

and embarked in the florist business ; their Jackson made his home at our subject's fa- plant is located just outside the corporate ther's plantation, and he took a great deal of limits of the borough of Doylestown, and interest in our subject, and used to rock him covers an acre of land, all of which is cov- upon his knee. Upon the death of our sub- ered with glass. They have a very large ject's father, in 1833, the, General sent John local trade, but ship most of their stock to Jackson and his brother James, North in Philadelphia. Mr. Palmer is manager of the 1834. firm and is in all respects a first-class busi- James Barney, his brother, was a sailor ness man, commanding the respect and good- while rounding Cape Horn, the vessel was will of a host of friends. wrecked, and all the crew, who managed to Mr. Clemens has always taken a lively get ashore, were killed by the Indians, with interest in township and county political the exception of him and two others. The affairs, and is an ardent supporter of the three made their way back to Rio de Janeiro, Republican party; in 1882, he was elected South America; in 1856, James Barney wrote justice of the peace of Doylestown township, a letter to our subject stating that he was and was re-elected in 1 896, in which capacity about to leave on a vessel for Honolulu, but he is now officiating; he has been deputy since then has never been heard from. coroner of Bucks County and ; has served as John Jackson Barney resided with one clerk of the directors of the Bucks County family in Bristol township for ten -years and Almshouse. On May 29, 1879, Mr. Clemens then went to Philadelphia to learn the trade was united in the bonds of matrimony with of a shoemaker, residing in that city five Ida M. Palmer, a daughter of John and years after ; his marriage, he moved west to Margaret Palmer of Buckingham town- Ohio and settled in Xenia, where he engaged ship, and three children have blessed their in the wholesale and retail shoe business. home, namely: George R. ; lyizzie; and His health failing, he returned to Bucks Alma. County, where he remained a short time, BUCKS COUNTY 323

when he moved to Byberry, Philadelphia in every respect, and has had a very success-

County ; there he continued the shoe business ful business career ; while in Ohio he did a for a period of thirty-three years. In 1886, wholesale shoe business, shipping by the car

Mr. Barney became a resident of Cornwells, load. Mr. Barney is justly proud of his chil- where he has since kept a shoe store on the dren, all of whom, through the liberal edu-

Bristol turnpike. Our subject is well known cational advantages granted them by him, throughout his community as a kind neigh- have attained high and honorable positions. bor and friend, and a valued citizen. Now on the decline of life, Mr. Barney is

February 10, 1850, Mr. Barney was united in well able to enjoy the comforts of a profitable marriage with Caroline Makle, and they have and well-spent life. become the parents of a family of seven children, namely : Maria, who married Rev. R. B. Johns, lives in North Carolina, and has three children : I^aura F. is a teacher residing at L. WORTHINGTON has been en-

Washington, D. C. ; Ida died, aged eighteen gaged in the mercantile business all

is teacher, resident his life, and is the owner and proprietor of years ; Emma J. a and a is a resi- a large store situated on the corner of Clin- of Hagerstown, Md. ; John J., Jr., dent of Philadelphia, where he is clerking in ton and Ashland streets, Doylestown, Pa. the water department of that city ; Mamie He is also engaged in the real estate business,

E. is a teacher at Washington, D. C. ; and and has built and sold many houses in the

Fanny, who is also a teacher at Washington, vicinity of Doylestown. He is truly one of

D. C. In politics, our subject is a Republi- the leading and influential business men of can, although he is strongly in favor of the Doylestown, is prominently identified with Prohibition platform, being very much op- many of its leading enterprises, and is a firm posed to the use of liquor. For many years supporter of all measures that tend to pro- he was a member of the Masonic Order. At mote the public welfare and the prosperity the age of twenty-one years, he inherited a of the community. He is a son of John and portion of his father's estate, and now has the Amy Worthington, and was born in Buck- will that was made out by his father. Our ingham township, Bucks County, Pa., April

subject had two half-brothers ; the oldest was 29, 1839. George W. Bolivar, who was forage inspector The grandfather of our subject was Joel during the war, and later was clerk of the Worthington, a native and life-long resident court at Memphis, Tenn. He died there of Buckingham township, who came of Eng- with yellow fever. Nicholas G. Bolivar was lish stock ; he owned a farm of 60 acres, and a tobacco trader, and while on a business-trip farming was his chief occupation. He was took active to Cuba died in Havana from yellow fever. a strong Democrat, and an part Religiously, he a Mr. Barney is a devoted member of the in local politics. was mem- of Friends. Methodist Church. He is a self-made man ber of the Society He was the ; : ;;

324 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

father of a family of four children, namely ceived his intellectual training in the schools

Abner, who died in 1897, aged eighty-seven of that vicinity. He was engaged in his year, years ; Deborah, the widow of John R. Hoopes father's store until the above when he of New Brighton, Pa. John, the father of moved to Warrington township, and there ; our subject; and Sarah Ann, the widow of started a mercantile store, conducting the William States of Philadelphia. same for some fifteen years; in 1884 our sub- John Worthington was born in Bucking- ject located in Doylestown, opening a store ham township, as were all his children, the on the southwest corner of Clinton and Ash-

date of his birth being in September, 18 14. land streets; in 1894 he erected a handsome

He resides in his native township on a farm 3-story block, 65 by 29 feet, on the opposite

containing 65 acres ; he also owns four other corner of the street. He carries a fine line of farms and a mill in that township. For forty gents' furnishings and clothing, and also

years he conducted a mercantile store at handles bicycles. Mr. Worthington is en-

Bridge Valley, this county, and retired from gaged in contracting and building, and de- that business in 1893. During his active rives good profits in the real estate business

days he was a very prominent man of his he has erected many houses, which he sells

community, and a leader in all public enter- or rents ; in late years he has erected seven

prises ; he is an intelligent citizen, and enjoys houses on Decatur street, and fifteen houses the respect of a multitude of acquaintances. on Clinton street, all of which he rents. Our He was a'director for twenty-five years in the subject has contributed his share toward the

National Bank of Doylestown. He is a de- building up of his adopted borough, and is

cided Republican, and, although taking an regarded by all as one of its most progressive active interest in the political affairs of his citizens. community, has never consented to hold pub- Mr. Worthington is a director and large lic offices. His wife. Amy, was also born in stockholder in the National Bank of Doyles-

Buckingham township, in 18 is 18, and now town ; a director of the Gas Company of past her eightieth year ; they were married Doylestown, which was purchased by the in 1837, and are the parents of four sons present and company in 1895 ; a director of the one daughter, as follows : F. L,., our subject Doylestown Electric Light Company ; direc- Lewis, a farmer of Warwick township ; Rienzi, tor of the Bucks County Electric Railway a merchant and a director of the National and a director of the National Farm of Bucks Bank of Doylestown; Edwin, a farmer of County, a charitable institution located near

Warwick township ; and Laura, the wife of the borough. In politics, he is an unwaver- William P. Ely, a member of the firm of J. ing Republican, whilst in religious views he Worthington & Son, general merchants of is a member of the Baptist Church, of which Lower Buckingham. he is a liberal supporter. Mr. Worthington F. L. Wortlriiigton was reared in his native formed a matrimonial alliance with Mary M. township, residing there until 1869, and re- Allen, a daughter of William and Sarah Ann

ALLEN LIVEZEY. BUCKS COUNTY 327

Allen, both now deceased, and they were the former bearing the date of March 2, 168 1, wedded February i, 1866. This union re- and the latter, March 3, of the same year. sulted in the birth of two children, namely : In these instruments Penn is described as

' Harry J., now engaged in business with his being ' of Worminghurst, in the Co. of Sus- father, wedded Addie Frankenfield, who died sex," and lyivezey "of Norton, in the Co. of just recently; and I^aura, deceased. Harry Chester, husbandman." The latter accom-

J. Worthington is the father of twins,—Helen panied the body of emigrants, who, respond- and Grace. ing to the invitation of William Penn, went to the new country with the latter's agent, William Markham, who was also deputy- governor of the province. This expedition (sTrLLBN'LLEN LIVEZEY,I a record of whose landed in America in May, 1681, and the record of Thomas is found in fjX life presentspre a career of remarkable first authentic J^^^^ activityacti^ and industry, was a well- the minutes of the first court held' in Phila- known contractor and builder of his day, but delphia, where, it is noted he was a member

1 , 1682. since 1867 he has been enjoying, in retire- of the grand jury, January 1 As was ment at Yardley, the fruits of his early toil. the custom, he also received with the pur-

chase of . land a lot of ground within the He is a son of Robert and , Sarah (Paxson)

lyivezey, and was born January 11, 18 14, in limits of the city, which Penn contemplated is "150" Solebury township, Bucks County, Pa. founding, and this lot numbered , This old and highly respected family of on the "portraiture of the city of Philadel- in Bucks County traces its ancestry in a direct phia, in the province of Pennsylvania, line to Thomas Livezey, a friend of William America, by Thohias Holme, Surveyor-Gen- Penn, and one of the first purchasers of land eral, I^ondon, 1683." It was located at what chartered to the latter by King Charles II. is now near the corner of Fourth and Chest- there he built a house, for the William Penn received, on March 5, 1681, nut streets, and the grant of land which included the entire record of the sale to Thomas Green, October province of Pennsylvania, which he wished 20, 1683, describes the property as a house is seen that he later to establish as an asylum of rest for the op- and lot. By his will it of acres, pressed Friends of England, who were fre- purchased an additional tract 290 his son Jonathan, to whom quently cast in prison or exiled because of which he sold to the original tract upon his their religious belief. Thomas Livezey was he also willed or 1692, the will bearing the also a devout Friend, and, having unfal- death in 1691 1691. As the records of Phila- tering faith in the glowing accounts of the date June 12, the name of his wife, New World by the champion of their cause, delphia do not mention not unlikely that she died before he he was among the first purchasers, acquiring it is to America. the title to 250 acres of land, the conveyance came Livezey, it is thought, was born being effected by deed of lease and release. Jonathan ; :

328 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

in Chester County, England, and immigrated Jonathan lyivezey, the great-grandfather of to this country with his father in 1681, our subject, was born in Philadelphia, Pa.,

dying in Philadelphia September 23, 1698. March 8, 17 19, or 1720, and formed a marital By his wife Rachel he had six children, a union, January 22, 1747, with Catherine

record of whom follows : Mary, born March Thomas, who was born March 18, 1 721, or

9, 1687, or 1688 ; Thomas, born January 17, 1722, and was a daughter of Daniel and

1689, or 1690, and died June 5, 1759, married Catherine (Morris) Thomas. This union re-

Elizabeth Heath, a daughter of Robert Heath; sulted in the birth of nine children : Esther,

Jonathan ; Martha, born March 3, 1694, or born June 14, 1749, who became the wife of

1695, married Robert Thomas, March 25, Jacob Holcombe, a son of Thomas and Cath-

1721 or 1722; Rachel, born May 15, 1696, erine Holcombe; Jonathan, born January 21,

married Evan Thomas, January 17 I 30, 17; 1750, or 17s ; Daniel ; Susanna, born August David, born or March 20, 1697 1698, married 3, 1754 ; Sarah, who died in infancy, was Rebecca Hinkson October 25, 1721, and was born September 7, 1756 ; Martha, born De-

called to his final rest in July, 1750. cember 29, 1757, died in infancy; Thomas,

Jonathan lyivezey was born in Philadel- born i, July 1762 ; Joshua, born March 24, phia, Pa., June 15, 1692, and resided there 1764, died in infancy; and Isaac, born Feb- at the time of his death, June 24, 1764. He ruary 20, 1767, who also died in infancy.

was joined in wedlock March 24, 17 17, or After the death of his first wife Mr. Livezey

17 1 8, with Esther Eastburn, a daughter of formed a second union, which was blessed Robert Eastburn. She reached an advanced by the birth of three children, namely age before submitting to the inevitable, July Rachel, born June 4, 1776; David, February 18, 1788, aged ninety-four years and eleven i6, 1778 ; and Elizabeth, July 6, 1781. days. Their union resulted in the following Thomas lyivezey, a cousin ofJonathan L,ive-

issue : Jonathan, who was born March 8, zey, the third, was a man who moved in the or 1720, died 1719, November 11, 1789; highest intellectual circles and attained dis- Joseph, born October 23, 1722, and died in tinction in public affairs, being a conspicuous January, 1800, married, March 20, 1753, member of the Pennsylvania Assembly in the Ann Roberts, a daughter of John Roberts years 1 765-66-67-68-69-70-7 1 . He was also Sarah, born January 12, died 1724, March 23, a member of that noted organization, the 1790; Benjamin, born August 31, 1728, and American Philosophical Society, of which died November 28, married 1793, on the isth Benjamin Franklin was the founder, and was of May, 1753, Phcebe Roberts, a daughter of an intimate acquaintance of the latter. He John Roberts; Mary, born April 21, 1730, resided in a handsome residence at Roxboro, died at the age of one year and seven months ; Philadelphia County, bordering on the beau- and Nathan, born July 11, and died 1739, in tiful Wissahickon, where he owned mills 1823, —his companion in life was Hannah which he operated in connection with culti- Williams, and they were married in 1763. vating a farm. He also had a large vineyard, : ;

BUCKS COUNTY 329

as it was customary in those days to make true description of the place of my residence one's own wine. In speaking of the excel- in order to convince thee of that error lency of the wine made by Thomas lyivezey, in Near Wissahickon's mossy banks, where purling foun- a communication to the Historical Society of tains glide, Pennsylvania, of which he was vice-president, Beneath the Spruces' shady boughs and Laurels' bloom- " ing pride, Hon. Horatio Gates Jones wrote : No doubt Where little fishes sport and play, diverting to the sight, it was good, for in 1768 Robert Wharton sent Whilst all the warbling winged race afforded my ear delight. a dozen bottles to Dr. Franklin, who, in a Here are evergreens by nature set, on which those letter dated 20th of February, 1768, wrote to warblers sing,

' And flowery aromatic groves from an eternal Spring Wharton as follows : Dear Friend, I received Refreshing breezes round me move, which with the i8th, your favor of November 17th and with bowers play. another dozen of excellent wine, the manu- And balmy odors on their wings through all my vale convey. facture of our friend I/ivezey. I thank you for Those charming scenes—did'st thou dwell here—would the care you have taken in forwarding them, all thy care beguile, And in the room of anxious fear, would cause a harmless and for your good wishes that accompanied smile. them.' Mr. I^ivezey was a member of the So- Here's innocence and harmony, which give me thoughts ciety of Friends, and when the British were sublime. Little inferior to the place call'd Bden in the prime. troops used to go in Philadelphia, and our Thus situated, here I dwell, where these sweet zephyrs about seeking provender, he sunk a number move, And little rivulets from rocks add beauty to my grove. of barrels of wine in his dam in the Wissa- I drink the wine my hills produce ; on wholesome food where it remained until the close of I dine hickon, ; My little offspring round me, like clusters on the vine. the war. Some of that wine was bottled and I hand in hand with second self oft' walk amidst the preserved by the late Mr. John Livezey, a bowers. grandson of the said Thomas Ivivezey, until a Whilst all our little prattling ones are gathering opening flowers. died, in 1878. He gave short time before he In this low station here I'm fixed, nor envy court nor me a small bottle of this Revolutionary wine, King, Nor crave the honors statesmen crave, nor cares which I shall deposit in our Society." Many which riches bring. prominent men were numbered among his Honor's a dangerous, tempting thing, which oft' leads men astray. friends, one of whom was Joseph Galloway, a Riches, like insects, spread their wings and quickly flee noted lawyer, with whom he served in the away. Assembly. Their intimate social relations, My meditations here are free from interrupting strife, Whilst different ways, aspiring men pursue indifferent wit for which Mr. I^ivezey together with the life; will be paid to pray, was well known, is shown in the letter which I see what are the clergy's use, who And how poor clients are abused by lawyers' long delay. " Friend : follows : To Joseph Galloway, Dear I see what cunning artifice the busy men employ. —As thou hast often concluded from the low- Whilst I this lonely seat of bliss unenvied here enjoy. This is the place of my abode, where humbly here I ness of my situation that I must be connected dwell, Infernal with the Lower Regions or some Which, in romantic mood, thou hast compared to Hell. where Adam dwelt in blissful love and ease, place of abode, I have sent thee the following But Paradise 330 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

A lawyer would compare to Hell, if thence he got no The following issue resulted from their fees. union: Cyrus, born August 14, 1805, died Canst thou prefer thy heaven on earth—thy fee the root 12, Eliz;abeth, bom Feb- of evil, December 1885 ; To this my lowly harmless place Hell without a —my ruary 26, 1807, died June i, 1896; Ann, born devil ? April 5, 1809, died April i, 1892; Albert, " Permit me from my low situation to thine born September 12, 181 1, is living at this of eminence, to do myself the justice to say, date (1898); Allen, the subject of this bio-

I am, with much respect. Thy sincere friend, graphical sketch ; Samuel, born September

Thomas I^ivezey. I shall conclude with the 18, 1816, died November 25, 1863; Elias,

words made use of to Zaccheus of old, 'come born June 3, 1819, resides in Baltimore, Md.;

down—come down quickly,' for I want thee and Abraham, born September 15, 1821, and

to dine at my house." died August 31, 1896. Daniel lyivezey, a son of Jonathan and Allen lyivezey was reared in his native Catherine (Thomas) lyivezey, was born in township, where he lived until after his mar-

lyower Dublin township, Philadelphia Coun- riage in 1839, when he moved to lyumber- ty, Pa., December 14, 1752, and died in ville, Bucks County, where he followed his Bucks County, Pa., in 1796. In 1778, he calling, that of a contractor and builder. He formed a matrimonial alliance with Margery met with much success and remained there Croasdale, a daughter of Robert and Margery until 1850, when he purchased an estate on Croasdale, and they reared the following the corner of State and Sugan roads, in Sole-

children : Robert Jonathan, ; born January bury township, erected buildings, and there 22, 1782, was a resident of Ohio, where he lived for four years. He tlien disposed of died; Sarah, who was born March 4, 1784, his property and moved to Philadelphia, died at Centre Hill, this county; Isaac, born where he accepted a position as foreman April 20, 1786, died February 27, 1864, at with a well-known contractor and builder. lyanghorne; Deborah, born April 20, 1788, In 1862, he returned to Bucks County, locat- died at Centre Hill; Ezra, born March 20, ing at Taylorsville, where he followed his 1792, died in New York City; and Samuel, trade for three years, after which he moved April born 23, 1794, and died July 19, 1813. to Yardley. He at first rented the property I/ivezey Mrs. was born July 3, 1758, and upon which he now resides, but in 1867 he lived to reach an advanced age. purchased it and has resided there up to the Robert lyivezey, the father of our subject, present time. Since that year he has been was born February 22, 1780, and died on the living in retirement. He was always honest 14th of March, 1864, in Solebury township, and straightforward, energetic and indus- Bucks County. His wife, Sarah Paxson, to trious, and he richly deserves the success whom he was married November 14, 1804, that came to him. He is a man of high was a daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth character, and possesses the friendship and

(Brown) Paxson, and was born i, July 1779. esteem of all with whom he is acquainted. ; ;;

BUCKS COUNTY 33T

He was united in marriage November 28, being their destination, they took the coast- 1839, with Mary Ann Gordon, a daughter of ing vessel "Bristol," and sailed to Make- John and Sarah Gordon, and the following field, at which place they did not remain

children were born to them : Theodore, born long, for in 1706 they moved to Bucking-

August 20, 1840, resides at Newport News, ham, Pa., in the development of which sec-

Va.; Henry Clay, born August 23, 1843, tion their descendants have been prominent

died in Yardley, January 8, 1895 ; B. Frank- factors. Joseph was born October 19, 1668,

lin, born December 12, 1847, "whose personal and, when he attained the age of thirty

history is elsewhere recorded in this book years, was married to Bridget Wilson, and

and John Gordon, born February 4, 1853, two sons were born to them in England,

who is living in Newport News, Va. Mr. Joseph and Benjamin ; and two daughters I/ivezey's beloved wife was called to her were born in this country, Tamar and Mary.

home beyond the river of Death, July i r, The mother survived the birth of the last- 1876. Mr. lyivezey's portrait, which appears named only eleven days. Joseph was mar-

on a preceding page, is a decided and valua- ried three years later to Elizabeth' Doyle, of ble addition to our collection of portraits of Welsh descent, and this union was blessed

representative men of Bucks County. by seven children, namely : John ; Isaac

Titus ; Thomas ; George ; Sarah ; and Ra- chel. Joseph Fell, the second of the name, was united in marriage with Mary Kinsey, a M. FELI/, D.D.S., a success- daughter of Edmund Kinsey of Bucking- I YRON ful practitioner of dentistry of ham, and two sons and three daughters

this union, namely : Doylestown and a prominent citi- resulted from Joseph ;

; Sarah ; Rachel and Martha. Joseph zen of that community, is a son of James B. David ; and Josephine B. (Conrad) Fell, and was born Fell, the third of the name, was wedded to December 21, 1872. Rachel Wilson, who bore the following chil-

dren : Joseph John ; Martha ; Rachel ; Mary The Fell family is one of the most numerous ;

and representative families of Bucks County; David ; and Jonathan. David Fell wedded Scofield, and five children blessed this it is of English-Quaker origin, and the family Phoebe was founded in this country by Joseph Fell, union, namely: Joseph; Bushrod; Edith; about the time of William Penn. Joseph Sarah A.; and Elizabeth. David Fell was was a native of lyonglands, parish of Rock- one of the pioneer physicians of this section in of the state, and was a graduate of the Uni- dale, County of Cumberland, England ; Pennsylvania. He had a large 1705 he and his family left White Haven, versity of the England, on the ship "Cumberland," Cap- practice in Buckingham and surround-

; died at the advanced age tain Matthew Gale, for America, and after ing townships he an uneventful voyage of twenty-nine days of eighty-two years. grandfather of our subject, reached the capes of Virginia. This not Eli Fell, the :;

332 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIKS

was a native and life-long resident of Buck- April I, 1892, he entered the employ of the ingham township, and was one of the suc- P. & R. R. R. at Philadelphia, and remained cessful pioneer farmers of the township. He in the employ of that company until Septem-

was a member of the Friends' Meeting. He ber I, 1893, when he entered the Philadel- was the father of the following children phia Dental College, from which institution

Eli B. ; Elias ; Morris ; Mrs. Rachel he was graduated March 1896. ; James 5, Imme-

Pierson ; Mrs. Hulda Kirk ; Ruth ; Mrs. diately thereafter, he entered upon the duties

Patsy Burgess ; Mrs. Charles Shaw ; Mrs. of his profession in Doylestown, Pa., where

Shepard ; and Mrs. Geil. James B. Fell was he has since practiced and is meeting with born on the old homestead in Buckingham fair success. The Doctor has made many township in 1828, and resided there all his friends since becoming a resident of the life, engaged in the pursuits of an agricul- borough, and bids fair to become one of the

turist, dying in 188 1. He was a meniber and prominent men of the town.

regular attendant of the Friends' Meeting. Dr. Byron M. Fell is a member of the

He was married to Josephine B. Conrad, Doylestown I/odge, No. 94, I. O. O. F.;

a daughter of Jacob G. Conrad, who was en- St. Tammany Castle, No. 173, Knights of gaged in the flour and feed business in Phila- the Golden Eagle. Our subject was joined delphia. Having acquired a competency by in the bonds of matrimony with Katharine the time he was fifty years of age, he moved E. Kenney of Philadelphia, and they were

to Buckingham township and settled in happily wedded February 17, 1897. Spring Valley, where he spent the remainder

of his life in retirement, dying in 1890, aged seventy-six years. Mr. and Mrs. Fell were

the parents of three sons and four daughters, ^HINEAS BRIGGS, an old and prom-

who were named as follows : Ella, deceased ; inent agriculturist of Upper Make- Clara, the wife 19 of Elmer W. Kirk, a livery- field township, Bucks County, has man of Doylestown Conrad, proprietor of ; J. been engaged in farming all his life, and is a meat market at New Hope, this county the owner and proprietor of the Henry Iceland Eli, an employ^ of the N. Y., N. H. & H. farm, which consists of 103 acres of well-im- R. R., is a resident of New York ; Marian proved land. This prominent and greatly graduated from the hospital of the Univer- respected citizen was born in the above town- sity of Pennsylvania, and is a trained nurse ship December 25, 1836, and is a son of James of Philadelphia; a daughter who died in and Tacy (Croasdale) Briggs, and grandson infancy ; and Dr. Byron M. of Phineas Briggs. Dr-. Fell, our subject, supplemented his Phineas Briggs, the grandfather of our sub- primary education which he received in the ject, was born in Middletown township, Bucks public schools of his native township, by a County, and spent his entire life there engaged course at the Trenton Business College. in the cultivation of the soil, being the owner :

BUCKS COUNTY 333

of a fine farm. James Briggs, the father of the esteem and confidence of his many ac- our subject, was born in Middletown town- quaintances. ship, this county. He was intellectually Mr. Briggs chose for his life companion trained in the common schools and spent his Hannah T. Warner, of Falls township, Bucks early days working on the home farm, and County, and they were united in marriage

serving an apprenticeship to the coachmak- March 2, 1865. She was born March 31, 1842, ing trade. He did not follow his trade long, as and her parents are Abraham and Sarah Ann he moved to Solebury township, this county, (Taylor) Warner, the former a native of Falls

and began farming ; later he returned to township, and the latter a native of I^oudoun Upper Makefield township and retired from County, Virginia. Mr. Warner was a farmer

the active duties of life, spending his latter by trade and upon his death, Mrs. Warner days in the village of Dolington, where he became the wife of John Wildman, of Lang- died September i8, 1897. He married Tacy liorne, Pa. Politically, our subject is a stanch are prominent Croasdale, by whom he reared a family of Republican ; he and his wife

four children, namely : Caroline, deceased, members of the Friends' Meeting at Makefield.

was the wife of Isaac H. Hillborn ; Phineas, the subject of this brief memoir; Robert Croasdale, deceased, was united in marriage with Mary Warner, and she now resides in TTSIvARENCE C. WII.DMAN, one of

Newtown, Pa. ; and Jonathan Taylor, de- I Vf the good substantial business men ceased, who was joined in marriage with V»^_^' and reliable citizens of Middle-

Hannah McDowal, who is a resident of Lower town township, Bucks County, Pa., is the Makefield township. The mother of our sub- owner and proprietor of the large carriage

ject is still living, surrounded by many warm and wagon manufacturing plant which was

friends, and is residing at the home of her established at Oxford Valley, Middletown only child, Phineas. township, in 1865, by his father. He was Phineas Briggs acquired a liberal education born in Newtown, Bucks County, in May,

in the schools of his native township and was 1859, and is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth educated to farming, which vocation he has (Bunting) Wildman. successfully pursued up to the present time. His grandfather, also named Joseph Wild-

He began life on his own account at Penn's man, was engaged for many years in agricul- Manor, this county, where he followed farm- tural pursuits in Middletown township. He ing two years; he then, in 1867, located on and his wife Sarah were the parents of three his present farm, and has made many im- children, two sons and one daughter, namely

provements upon his first purchase, until it Katharine; Joseph; and Oscar. now ranks among the best farms in Upper Joseph Wildman, the father of our subject, Makefield township. Mr. Briggs is an up- was born in Middletown township in 1831, right and enterprising farmer, and possesses and when a young man learned the carriage 334 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

and wagon-maker's trade at Oxford Valley. daughter of James and Betsey (Green) Bunt- After thoroughly mastering his trade, he en- ing, and they became the parents of seven

gaged in business for himself, locating near children : Anna May, who died at the age of

Jenny's Mills, on the plank road between three years ; Alfred and Clarence C, twins ;

Newtown and Yardley, when he was twenty- John ; Mary ; Frank ; and Oscar. Mr. Wild- two years of age. There he built a shop and man was called into the unknown world on

plied his trade with much success until 1865, January i, 1893, and was buried in the

when he returned to Oxford Valley and pur- Friends' Burying Ground his wife still ; sur- chased the small shop, which stood upon the vives him, and resides in Yardley with her same ground where he learned his trade. youngest son, Oscar, although she spends There he erected a larger shop, and, as busi- much time at the homes of her other children.

ness rapidly increased, subsequently enlarged Clarence C, Wildman, the subject of this

his plant, and rebuilt it from time to time, sketch, attended the common schools Jov a and was conducting an extensive establish- time, after which he began working in the ment when his death occurred. It was oper- shop of his father, although very young in

ated by steam power, and was fitted out with years. He learned the trade, and upon ar- saws, planes, and lathes, and all modern riving at manhood was possessed of much machinery which would facilitate the manu- skill in that line of work. He continued to facture of carriages and wagons. He turned work with his father, and, in 1881, he and out goods of the finest quality, and established his twin brother, Alfred, were taken into the a good reputation throughout the section. business as partners. The latter withdrew in

He also conducted a blacksmith shop just 1884, but our subject continued in the firm, across the street, where not only the general and by an arrangement one year previous to patronage was cared for, but the smithing his father's death, he succeeded to the owner- necessary in the manufacture of wagons. He ship of the plant when his father died. Soon was an enterprising business man, and his after he became sole proprietor, the works great success was due to his own individual were burned to the ground; this was natur- eflForts. In politics, he was an active Repub- ally a great loss, but was doubly so to him as lican, and, although he always refused to run he was just starting out in his own behalf for office, he willingly acted as judge of elec- Undaunted by this reverse, he immediately tion, or as school director, when called upon erected the present large building, which is to do so, believing that it was ever a man's a great improvement over the former one, duty to take an interest in good government both in regard to size and convenience. He and good schools. Socially, he was a mem- has since been actively engaged in the manu- ber of Neshaminy lyodge, No. 1. 422, O. O. F., facture of carriages and wagons, and has es- of Hulmeville ; and the Knights of Pythias. tablished a good name for them throughout He was joined in matrimonial bonds with the county. He constantly employs seven Elizabeth Bunting, of Oxford Valley, a or eight men, and uses none but the best

DR. WILLIAM E. DOUGHTY. BUCKS COUNTY 337

machinery for carrying on the work. He is a silis coat of arms is the white hand and man of excellent business ability, energetic, dagger, with a half moon and three stars in and enterprising, and by the honest methods, the background. which he makes use of in his business deal- Samuel Willett Doughty, the father of our ings, has won the esteem and respect of the subject, was. born in this county, where he community. resided throughout life, engaged in the pur-

Mr. Wildman was united in marriage with suit of anagriculturist. On March 17, 1839, " Charlotte Dixon, of Bensalem township, a he bought and . located Upon Fox Run daughter of William and Jane Dixon, and Farm," in :Plumstead township, and there they have one daughter, Jennie. ' Religiously, followed fanning in a successful manner until our subject's wife is a member of the Presby- his death, July 10, 1897, at the advanced age terian Church. He is a Republican in poli- of eightyrnihe years,' seven months and ten tics. Socially, he and his two brothers, John days, having been born November 30, 1807. and Oscar, are members of Neshaminy L,6dge, He was riot a man given to public life, and

No. 422, I. O. O. F., of Hulmeville, of which never held nbr;aspired,to ofSce. He was joined he is a past grand master. For thirteen in marriage with.Mary Ann Preston Gilling- years, our subject lived in the village in the ham in 1835. Samuel Willett Doughty was old home, where his mother was born, and a. man of great steadiness of purpose, coupled which his father purchased from' James Bunt- with a special exemption from vices. Labor ing. At the present time, he is living upon and economy were traits of character which the old home place, where his father resided i were followed unfalteringly. . Roll out and in the morning, at the time of his demise. ; not roll over, when awake a maxim Iwhich was followed by himself ; was with a pur- ! and exacted from ^11 about him pose as fixed as the laws of the Medes and ]

Persians. - He was warmly, attached to friends, R. WILLIAM E. DOUGHTY, a i

; .enemies. His scion of a proniineiit old Bucks but obstinately opposed.to Ms

member , of the Hicksite B County family, whose recent por- wife was a consistent Friends' Meeting at Buckingham. She was trait appears on the opposite page,- is a learned ; of Gillinghain, a very prom- doctor of medicine who has been engaged in \ a daughter John of his generation. Her brother, the practice of his profession at Hartsville, inent man was the grandfather of Hon. Samuel Bucks County, Pa., for almost twenty-seven John, Ashbridge, the present Mayor of Philadel- years. He is a son of the late Samuel Willett H.

' ' Her children arise up and call Doughty and Mary Ann Preston Gillingham. phia [i 899]. They never saw her in a pas- He was born in the village of Carversville, her blessed." scold nor ever heard her say an ob- Bucks County, Pa., on June 26, 1836. On sion to scene or a profane word. The lamp of her his father's side he is descended from the Earl correct and beautiful life went out on the of Cassilis, a Scottish nobleman. The Cas- ;

338 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

morning of October 12,1 874, after a linger- And some days it was piping hot, And some days it would rain, ing and painful illness of four years, from But always was there work to do, intestinal carcinoma. From this marriage Of jobs an endless chain."

came two children, William E., a record of whose life is here presented to the readers, When the days became so short that the and Miss Caroline Gillingham, who was born middle of the afternoon came at half-past two, April 15, 1 84 1. She now resides on and owns he began to go to school, and when the the old homestead in Plumstead township, vernal equinox and the blue-birds came up where she was born. William Evans Doughty, from the Sotith, arm in arm, the books closed, a son of the Doctor, manages the farm for his the wheels in the machinery of labor sang a aunt. song that was a requiem to the farm lad's

Dr. William E. Doughty received his pri- winter schoolday pleasures. By assiduous mary education in the common schools of his industry and rigid economy he was enabled neighborhood. His primary or kindergarten to enter the First State Normal School, at

effort at Point Pleasant, three miles distant, Millersville, Pa., in 1857; the School at that

was under the kindly care of David R. War- time being under the charge of Hon. J. P. ford later at Carversville Wickersham, who became ; or Kirk's Corner, State Superinten- with Miss Sarah Ann Walker, Charles Carver dent of Public Instruction and afterwards and Edgar E. Mitchell as tutors. Again a Commissioner of Education to Sweden. The change was made, a new school house being Doctor- spent a part of two years at this built, about a mile distant from his home, school, ending in the spring of 1859. Soon which was named appropriately, " Cold Cor- after leaving Millersville, he had a public ner." The winds of winter found no barrier to examination by William H. Johnson, who their velocity or fierceness, after leaving the was the County Superintendent of Common Haycock Mountain, nearly twenty miles to the Schools of Bucks County. This examina- northwest. Here he had as instructors Wil- tion of the class took place in an upper room son Doan, Samuel Bradshaw, Esq., and D. at the Gardenville tavern. The Plumstead Wesley Bartine, since a noted teacher in a Board of School Directors appointed him to Philadelphia school. Owing to the excellent the Western Brick School, where he made endowments and capabilities, as a teacher of his maiden effort at school teaching about Dr. George Passmore Betts, a winter was well the middle of April, 1859. He taught at and profitably spent at Cottageville, in Sole- this place for five months, receiving eighteen bury township. Eight months of the year dollars a month. He afterwards taught were spent in arduous labor. school at Groveland, Point Pleasant and Cold Corner, all in Plumstead, a school in Milford "The days went by and took their time, township near Zion's Hill Church, for two Those days of golden charm And Satan found no mischief years, at Collegeville in Solebury township,

For him, down there : on the farm and finally at L,umberville, from which posi- BUCKS COUNTY 339

tion he resigned, and was succeeded by his Pension Examining Boards for the Bucks sister. During this time, although his time County district. His colleagues from the was nearly all taken up with his duties as Republican party were, Drs. J. I. Cawley and pedagogue, he assiduously devoted his spare l/cvi S. Walton. The board was made en- moments in preparation for his chosen pro- tirely Democratic at the beginning of Grover fession, that of medicine, under the late Cleveland's second term of office, and con- Dr. Kemble Wiley, of Carversville. Subse- sisted of Drs. William E. Doughty, George quently he entered the University of Penn- H. Stroup and F. H. Grim. Our subject sylvania, from which he was graduated in went on duty April i, 1891, and continued the class of i868, March 13. This class is as a member until September i, 1898. In known as the Centennial Class. The doctor 1896 he was a candidate for State Represen- was one alumnus of twenty-two who sat down tative on the Democratic ticket in Bucks to an alumni dinner at the Bellevue Hotel, County, but as that was the year of the down-

June 7, 1898. At that date thirty-three mem- fall of the party throughout the county, he bers of that class of one hundred and fifty- met with defeat. Being a man of superior three were known to have gone over the di- education and ability as a writer, he acts as vide. Immediately after graduating, he lo- correspondent to a number of newspapers, cated at Jamison's Corner, having purchased besides writing an occasional article for a the practice of the late Dr. Washington Mat- medical periodical. thews. Here he was successfully engaged in Socially, he is a member of the following practice for a period of three years. He then orders : Warrington lyodge, No. 447, 1. 0. 0. F., moved to Hartsville, where he has since con- of Jamison, of which he is a P. G. ; Hatboro tinued to practice. He has a large and lucra- Encampment, No. 169, I. O. O. F., which tive practice, and is patronized by many of meets in LoUer Hall, Hatboro. He is at the the leading citizens of the community. He present time S. W. of this encampment. He is a man who bears acquaintance, and has is a member of Fortuna Lodge, No. 1 1 8, made friends rapidly, always retaining a Knights of Pythias, at Hatboro. He is a friendship once formed. Politically he is member in good standing of the Bucks Coun- quite prominent. He was a school director ty Medical Society. He is also surgeon in for a period of fifteen 5'ears, and held all the L,ieutenant John H. Fisher Post, No. loi, offices in the gift of the board. He was G. A. R., which is located at Hatboro, Mont- elected president of the School Directors' gomery County, Pa. In 1862 and 1863 he Association of Bucks County. This is an was called out with the Pennsylvania militia office without perquisites or emoluments, but to repel the invasion of the Confederate Army. rich in honor. During the presidential ad- In 1863 he enlisted in Company C, Capt. A. ministration of Hon. Benjamin Harrison, the A. Slack, 45 th Regiment, Union I/cague Doctor was appointed Democratic member Brigade. During the campaign he con- of the Doylestown and Bristol United States tracted typhoid fever, which almost resulted ;

340 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

fatally. In i860 he engaged with the firm of Religiously the Doctor is a Presbyterian, Geil & Harley to do some topographical sur- being a communicant of Rev. Wm. K. Pres- veying in Michigan. He left home on May ton's Neshaminy Presbyterian Church, of

7, 1 860, and returned through Canada and by Warwick. His ancestors on his father's side the way of Niagara Falls, January 7, 1861. have been Presbyterians since the Wilson While there he surveyed large parts of the women were drowned in the rising tides of

northern portion of the southern peninsula the Bladnoch, on the coast of Scotland, for of Michigan. It was a business destitute of their heresy. These martyred women have large moneyed returns, but left a rich legacy left a record in church history, by sacrificing in experience and travel. In 1862 he made their young lives for their religious convic-

a like survey of Howard County, Maryland. tions. Perhaps the Doctor inherits his re-

On Sunday, January 31, 1869, Dr. Doughty spect for the church and its teachings from was united in marriage with Miss Amanda his sanguine relationship to these noble mar-

I/eidy, a daughter of Zachariah and Catherine tyrs. He certainly inherits his love for in- Ann (Gabel) lycidy, at the manorial residence dustry and steadfastness of purpose from in Chalfont, Pa. The marriage ceremony both his paternal and maternal ancestors. was performed by Rev. N. S. Allen. Their He started in life with one sole purpose, and children are : William E., born June 9, 1870, that was to succeed. He never spent a dol- who resides on the old homestead farm in lar that he did not first earn, and he has the Plumstead [1899]; Gillingham Fell, born most heartfelt respect for the man who eats July 9, 1872. He graduated from the First the bread earned by honest labor, and he

State Normal School at Millersville, Pa., in whose hands are hard with honest toil. the class of 1892, receiving his degree of " No man is born into the world whose work Bachelor of Flements. In 1894 the State of Is not born with him. There is always work, And tools to work withal, for those who will Pennsylvania, for good services in the field And blessed are the horny hands of toil." of teaching, gave him a diploma making him —I,OWEi

a Master of Elements. January 8, 1896, he received an appointment by the Trustees of

Girard College, as a Prefect in that institu- ^yOBENSACK BROTHERS, the well- tion, which is a life-long oflice, while desire known proprietors of one of the most and good behavior continue. He has the progressive business houses of reputation of being an especially good officer. Warminster township, Bucks County, con- Mary Eleanor was born January 16, of Cen- duct a large store in Ivyland and deal in tennial year, 1876. She graduated from the farming implements, coal, feed, many special First State Normal School at Millersville, brands of fertilizers, flour, baled hay, chopped Pa., in the class of 1896, receiving the de- feed, etc. They embarked in this line of gree of B. E. She is a teacher in the public business in 1889, and by a close application schools of Bucks County, Pa. to the wants of the trade and by courteous : 1

BUCKS COUNTY 34

and fair treatment of their customers, they ing in the common schools and the Hatboro established a patronage which is unrivalled Academy, after which he engaged in farming in this section of the state. The firm is com- in his native township until 1886, when he posed of William and B. Frank Hobensack, moved to the southern part of Warminster gentlemen highly esteemed by their fellow- township and engaged in agricultural pur- citizens as men of worth and influence in the suits until 1889, when he became connected community. with his present business, which has resulted William Hobensack, the elder of the two so satisfactorily. He has held the office of brothers, was born May 17, 1862, and is a son school director one year, and has been audi- of Isaac C. and Johannah (Hogeland) Hoben- tor for the past eight years. In his political sack, the former of whom is a prominent citi- affiliations, he firmly supports the principles zen of Southampton township, Bucks County. of the Republican party. Fraternally, he is Isaac C. Hobensack and his wife were the a member of the W. K. Bray Lodge, No. 410, happy parents of the following children F. &A. M.,of Hatboro; Chapter No. 245,

Mary A. ; Isaac Morris, who lives in Mon- R. A. M., of Doylestown ; and the Philadel-

; William, a member phia Consistory, P. R. S., of Philadelphia. tana ; lyouisa, deceased S- of the firm above-mentioned; B. Frank, who January 14, 1886, he was united in marriage William Al- with Catherine Cornell, of Moreland, Pa., a is associated in business with ; (McKinstry) bert C. Emily ; Wilkins ; and Joie. daughter of Hiram and Jennie ; William Hobensack attended the public Cornell, by whom he has one son, Wilkins schools and also the academy at Hatboro, re- Carlisle, who was born October S, 1896. Mr. ceiving a good English education, after which and Mrs. Hobensack are faithful members of he engaged in farming for a time. In 1889, the Presbyterian Church of Warwick. he started in business with his brother at Ivy- land, Bucks County, at which he has since

continued. He is a dutiful citizen and an unswerving member of the Republican party, ^-j^yrVAHLON C. DETWEHvER, post- serving in an official capacity as er =¥ master and a retired meat and at present I eJJs school director. Religiously, he is a member gA \^^ provision dealer of Richland of the Southampton Old School Baptist Center, Bucks County, Pa., is one of the

Church, and is serving as clerk. He was most enterprising and progressive business united in matrimonial bonds with Mary A. men of the community, and has contributed Stout, of Southampton township, and they his share toward the building up and main- of its reputation, and to him it is have seven children : Isaac Cornell ; Sarah taining May; Bertha; George Stout; Anna; William indebted for the position it holds among the wealthy and prosperous towns of the county. Parker ; and Clarice D. B. Frank Hobensack was born September He was born in Milford township, Bucks Pa., March 24, 1846, and is a son of 30, 1864, and obtained his intellectual train- County, ;

•342 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Henry and Annie (Clymer) Detweiler, and days working on his father's farm and attend- grandson of Jacob Detweiler. ing the district schools of the neighborhood,

Our subject's grandfather was a farmer of where he acquired a liberal education ; he Ivehigh County, Pa., for many years, but then worked with John Barnes of Milford, later came to Bucks County and settled in serving an apprenticeship to the carpenter's Milford township, where he pursued his trade and followed that vocation as a jour- former vocation until death claimed him, neyman in Richland and Quakertown many which was at the age of about eighty years. years. Upon discontinuing that line of work His life companion was a Miss Heist, who he went in the meat and provision business

bore him the following children : Samuel and successfully followed that occupation

Charles Jacob ; Daniel ; Catherine ; ; and twelve years at Richland Center and Quaker-

Elizabeth. Henry Detweiler, the father of town. He purchased the Simon Sacks es- our subject, was born in Upper Saucon town- tate, but shortly after taking possession of ship, lychigh County, Pa., and in his boyhood the property its buildings were destroyed by days learned the trade of a shoemaker, but fire, and our subject immediately replaced being unsuited with that occupation, he dis- them with new ones. I,ater, he bought the continued it after following it a short time, Jacob Cressman property which he remodeled and came to Milford township, this county, and enlarged into a commodious market and and purchased a farm, which he cultivated shop ; he employed many men, had several until ten years prior to his death when he delivery wagons, and it is said that he was retired from the more active duties of life. the largest meat dealer ever in the place. His death occurred at the age of seventy-six His honesty was never doubted, and he is years. Henry Detweiler was joined in mar- held in high esteem by his fellow-citizens riage with Annie Clymer, a daughter of for his many sterling qualities. In Septem- Jacob Clymer, a prominent resident of Bucks ber, 1895, he was appointed postmaster of County. Our subject's mother resides with Richland Center, a fourth class office, but in him, and is held in dear esteem by a large October, the same year, it was changed to a circle of acquaintances. She is the mother third class office, and he has continued in of nine children, named as follows : Mary, office since, and is considered by all the best the wife of Jacob Clymer ; Aaron, a resident postmaster Richland Center has ever had. of Quakertown ; Mahlon C, the subject of Our subject built a large tenement house in this notice; William, deceased; Henry, a 1898 ; he also purchased the Dr. IvOtt estate resident of Hagersville, this county; Susan, of so acres located on the west side of Strawn deceased ; Annie, deceased, was the wife of street, and later he sold a half interest to A. Steiner; Catherine, united in marriage Henry H. Souder. They cleared part of the with Samuel Sleififer ; and Frances, died who land, which was covered with a dense forest, aged two years. and built a half mile race track, 50 feet Mahlon C. Detweiler spent his boyhood wide, a ball ground, grandstand, pavilion, BUCKS COUNTY 343

50x150 feet, merry-go-rouiid, 40x50 feet, at the time of his retirement, in 1877, was and through the grove are many seats and it the proprietor of large paper mills, both at has many beautiful driveways. The park is Riegelsville, N. J., and at The Forge, and known as Lulu Park, and it is the most pop- was one of the most progressive and highly ular pleasure resort in the vicinity. In 1897 respected citizens of Riegelsville, in whose our subject sold his interest to C. T. Lee- progress and advancement he had been a land, president of the Quakertown Electric leading factor for many years. He was born

Railway. Mr. Detweiler's possessions have at Riegelsville, N. J., May i, 18 19, and was been accumulated by the exercise of his own a son of Benjamin J. and Elizabeth (Leidy) industry, economy and good judgment. He Riegel. is now leading an easier life and enjoying The family is of German origin, and its the fruits of his early labors. He also enjoys founders upon coming to America located the well-merited confidence of the community in Lower Saucon township, Northampton of which he is an honored and worthy mem- County, Pa., where they were among the ber. earliest settlers. Mathias Riegel, the grand- Mr. Detweiler was united in marriage with father of our subject, located in Northainp- Elizabeth Trumbower, a daughter of Samuel ton County and became one of the good, Trumbower of Richland township, this coun- substantial farmers of Lower Saucon town-

ty. He and his wife are members of the ship. He was joined in wedlock with Cath-

is erine Kram, and among the children who Lutheran Church ; socially, he a member

of the Pennsburg Lodge, No. 449, I. O. O. F., blessed their union was Benjamin, the father of Montgomery County; Secona Tribe, No. of our subject. in Sau- 263, L O. R. M.; and the O. U. A. M., No. Benjamin Riegel was born Lower April and at an early 149, of which he has been a member over con township, 17, 1792, thirty years; this was the only lodge in day moved to Musconetcong, Warren County, the occupation Quakertown that did not give up its charter N. J., where he followed during the Civil War. of a miller, operating a saw and grist mill.

In 1 8 14 he built a large stone barn on his property, and six years later erected a handsome stone house, which in 1832 was replaced by a large brick building. He 'OHN L. RIEGEL, deceased. To record built several houses in Musconetcong on the life of the gentleman whose name sides of the river, and was so prominent appears above is to relate a succession both the advancement of the interests of philanthropic acts and the events of a a figure in that its name was changed to remarkably active and industrious career. of the place Riegelsville in his honor. He was united in He began at a low station in life, that of a marriage with Elizabeth Leidy, who was clerk, and by a free use of the gifts of nature December 21, and was a daughter he worked his way up the ladder of life, and born 1799, , ;;:

344 BOOK OI*" BIOGRAPHIES

of John and Elizabeth (Lerch) I^eidy, and and a member of the building committee.

they reared two children, namely : John L,. He also aided in building the parsonage. In

the subject of this personal history ; and 1 889, he built a beautiful stone academy and Eliza, who married John Knecht of Shimers- library, which he donated to the town and

ville. which will live as a monument to his life for

John ly. Riegel obtained a good English many years to come. His useful career came

education in the common schools of his to an end in 1893, and he was mourned by a native township, and at the age of seventeen large family and a large circle of friends and years accepted a position as clerk in a store acquaintances throughout this section, who at Shimersville, Pa. Being endowed with loved him as a brother. He was of a very good business qualifications and high am- kind-hearted disposition and very charita- bitions, he applied himself diligently to his ble, always aiding financially and with kind

duties, and when he attained his majority he words of advice those who had been less

engaged in the lumber business with his fortunate in life and were deserving of his father at Musconetcong, where they operated sympathy. a grist mill. He also conducted a general Mr. Riegel was united in hymeneal bonds, merchandise store there for some years, and, in 1839, with Elizabeth Shimer, a daughter in 1865, built a factory and established a of John and Mary (Switzer) Shimer, and straw board plant at Finesville, Pa. After their union resulted in the following issue continuing at the latter place for some years, Mary E., Eliza E., Annie M., all of whom he moved to RiegelsviUe, N. with his died J., young ; Benjamin of RiegelsviUe, N. J. machinery, and there erected a large brick and Sarah Jane. Mrs. Riegel was called to paper mill, and later also built one at The her eternal reward in 1858, and in 1859 he Forge, both of which he conducted until his formed a second marital union with Cathe- retirement from active business in 1877. rine Stover, by whom he had three children : After that date he still invested much of his a son who died in infancy ; William, who wealth in different enterprises and took an also died young ; and Ella, whose sad death active interest in public affairs. In 1890, he occurred a*t the age of twenty years, who was established a paper mill at Hughesville, N. the wife of S. W. Dewitt, Esq., and left one which has proved to be a safe J., and paying son, John Riegel. Mrs. Riegel passed to her investment. In he erected 1874, an elegant home beyond the river of Death in 1864, and residence in RiegelsviUe, Pa., one of the our subject formed a matrimonial alliance finest in that town, in which his widow now with L,ydia Stover, by whom he had the fol- resides. He was a liberal supporter of the lowing children : Clara M., the wife of I,. S. church and was active in church work. He Clymer ; Ida J., and I,aura M., who reside at aided largely, financially and otherwise, in home with their mother at RiegelsviUe building the Union Church, and later the John S., who is connected with the Warren Reformed Church, of which he was a trustee Manufacturing Company of RiegelsviUe,

•..>»^«;^S»i;2a.

J, LEVI HEACOCK, ;

BUCKS COUNTY 347

manufacturers of Manila paper. It is a been remodeled to some extent. Owing to very large plant and employs a force of 150 the excellent facilities for obtaining water

hands. Mr. Riegel owns a fine stone resi- power, it was a desirable place to erect a

dence which with its beautiful lawn and mill, and he accordingly erected the neces- trees forms one of the handsomest homes in sary buildings and operated both a grist and

the county. He was joined in wedlock with linseed oil mill for many years. At the pres- Marion Griffin, a daughter of C. N. Griffin ent time a saw mill stands upon the same

of Finesville, N. J., and they are the parents spot where the oil mill was located. Wil-

of three children : Helen, Marjorie, and John liam Heacock, the great-grandfather of our Lawrence. His wife died in 1873, and on subject, succeeded his father in the business

June 19, 1876, Mr. Riegel nlarried Mary. and conducted it all his life. He married Easton, a daughter of John B. Easton of Ann Roberts of Milford, and they reared a Sparta, and their happy union was blessed large family of children, the youngest of by the birth of one son, George E-, .who is whom was Jesse, the grandfather of our sub-

now in attendance at school. ject. Jesse Heacock was also engaged in farming and milling on the homestead and was one of the good substantial men of his sec- LEVI HEACOCK,. a gentleman of tion of the. township. He formed a matri- scholarly attainments who for many monial alUiance with Tacy Thompson, by

whoni he had the following children : John years followed the ' profession of a

teacher, is now a member of the Quaker- Jonah; William;' Joel; Margaret; Enos

;' ; and Aaron. town borough council and is serving as jus- Ann Je'^se Joseph ; Nathan ; tice of the peace. He was born in Rockhill Joel Heacock, our subject's father, was born

township, Bucks County,' October 2, 1843, on the homestead farm," March 26, 1794, and carried and is a son of Joel and Abigail (Roberts) besides operating the mill on farming Heacock. all of his life. He died suddenly March 17, of attack of inflamma- He is of English descent, his great-great- 1853, as the result an grandfather, Jonathan Heacock, coming from tion of the bowels. He married Abigail a daughter of Levi Roberts of Mil- the north of England, in 171 1, with two Roberts, brothers, and locating in Delaware County, ford, Pa., and they became the proud parents appears at Pa. Some time previous to 1748, Jonathan of one son, J. Levi, whose name Heacock located in Rockhill township, the beginning of these lines. Mrs. Heacock closed her eyes in final sleep March 21, 1882, Bucks County ; in that year, he purchased 200 acres of the Penn estate from Thomas at an advanced age. Mr. Heacock was a and William Penn, upon which tract of land strong Anti-Slavery man, and before the war of the stations of the he erected a stone house, which is still stand- his house was one ing and in good shape, although it has since "Underground Railroad," which gave free- 348 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

dom to so many of the slaves. He was also of Quakertown, and loyal citizen of Bucks a consistent member of the Society of Friends. County, where he has spent his entire life, we are pleased to be able to present Mr. J. lycvi Heacock lived upon the homestead with his mother until 1858, when the farm Heacock's portrait on a preceding page. was disposed of and they moved to Quaker- town, where he has since resided. He attended the Bucks County Normal and Classi- cal School in Quakertown, and after com- II^LIAM H. IvANDIS. Of the nu- pleting his education was engaged as an W:.merous well-to-do farmers residing instructor, first as an assistant in the school within the boundaries of Bucks County, who where he received his own education and have attained success through the following later conducted a private school of his own. of their independent calling, and that, too, Proving himself well qualified to follow that by their own indomitable energy and perse- line of work, he was subsequently a teacher verance and not as the recipient of a legacy, in a private school and finally in the Friends' Mr. lyandis certainly deserves mention. For School, which position he held until he re- the past year our subject has been living in tired from active life. For sixteen years, he retirement, but still resides on his. farm, which held the office of notary public, and was is beautifully situated in Richland township, chief burgess for five years. At present, he near Quakertown. Our subject was born in is serving in an official capacity as a member Haycock township, this county, September of the town council, and in 1 898 was elected ^9) 1^35) and is a son of Daniel G. and Mary justice of the peace. In 1 866, he purchased (Hoffman) Iândis, and grandson of Henry the David Roberts estate, fitted up the house Iândis. in modern style, and there has since resided. Henry L,andis was a life-long farmer, and He is not only a great reader and one of the followed that occupation in Richland town- best posted men of the county, but has one ship the most of his active days ; he died at of the largest and most select libraries of any the age of eighty-three years and eighteen private family in the district. Mr. Heacock days, the date of his death occurring on the is a man of noble impulses and his acquaint- 17th day of September, 1848 ; he was buried ance is cultivated by the leading citizens of in the churchyard in Springfield township. the community. Iîke his forefathers, he is Religiously, he was a member of the Men- a member of the Society of Friends. In his nonite Church. He was married to a Miss political belief he has always supported the Gerhart, who bore him a family of six chil- Republican party. Our subject never mar- dren, namely: Tobiah; Daniel G.; Eliza- ried and lives in quiet retirement. Miss beth; Fanny; Mary; and Barbara. Daniel Susan Foulke, a cousin, attends J. to the G. Iândis, our subject's father, was born in household duties. Richland township August 24, 1799, and As a proniinent and representative resident assisted his father in the labors about the :

BUCKS COUNTY 349

farm until he attained his majority ; he then beries of all kinds; our subject, since 1897, settled in Springfield township, where he has given up the more active duties of life

pursued his former occupation for a period of and is now spending his latter days in quiet

ten years ; then moving to Quakertown, he and peace.

spent his remaining days in retirement ; he Mr. I/andis was united in marriage with

passed from this life March 20, 1886, and his Elizabeth Moyer, a daughter of Henry A. death was mourned by a large circle of Moyer, of Springfield township, and to this friends. Mr. I/andis was a man of a very imion two children were born, namely

strong constitution, never knowing a day's Henry M., born October 3, 1862, is a farmer illness until he experienced the sickness by vocation, and he wedded Emma Moyer, a which caused his death. He was joined in daughter of Peter Moyer, and they are the marriage with Mary Hoffman, who was born parents of three children, —Ervin, William,

November 8, 1807, and died July 9, 1887; and Annie ; and Daniel W., born July 10, she was a daughter of John Hoffman. As a 1864, now farming on the homestead, who result of this union the following children married Emma Moyer, a daughter of Levi

were born : lycwis H., a resident of New Moyer, and three children were born to

York City ; William H., our subject; Eliza- them, namely, —Wilmer, Ada, and Bertha. beth, the wife of A. S. Weis, of Lansdale, Mr. and Mrs. Landis are both prominent

Pa. ; Maria, deceased ; Mahlon died, aged members of the Mennonite Church. Our

twenty-three years ; and Amanda, deceased, subject is widely known throughout the who was the wife of W. H. Roth. township and takes an active part in any William H. I,andis acquired only a com- project that tends to benefit his township and

mon school education, and started out in life county. Mr. Landis is held in the highest at an early date to battle for himself; he was respect by his fellow-citizens, who have noted

wholly dependent on his own resources, re- his honorable industry and the many admir- ceiving no financial assistance from any one able traits of his character. in his fight for life and sustenance. He began farming in Springfield township, and

through his perseverance and industry pros- MOS S. HEIvIyYER. Conspicuous pered in his undertaking, and, in 1883, among the enterprising and reliable purchased the David Wireback farm, which business, men of Bucks County, consists of 40 acres of land, which our sub- is the gentleman whose biography we ject greatly improved by not only replacing write, who is the senior member of the well- the house, barns and out- buildings with new known firm, A. S. Hellyer & Son, the largest ones, but by putting the land under a high and leading general merchants of Doyles- state of cultivation. The house is a hand- town. The proprietors are active and ener- some farm dwelling, and is surrounded with getic, their honesty is never questioned, and beautiful and well kept lawn and shrub- the prosperity with which they are meeting 350 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

is solely due to their integrity and untiring laborer, and continued the same until the

energy. Our subject was born in Bucking- spring of 1857, when he conducted the

ham township, this county, May 20, 1828, Spring Valley Hotel of Buckingham one

and is a son of Joshua and Mary Ann (Cress) year. In 1858, he began going out on the Hellyer. road as a salesman of lightning rods, and The great-grandfather of our subject was continued the same for a period of fifteen

Tolnian Hellyer, who was born in England, years. In 1873, ^^ returned to farming, and and who came to America during the colonial for thirteen years he rented and operated a days, settling in the southern part of Bucks farm in Buckingham township, near Center- County. His son, Baronet, the grandfather ville. In 1886, he and his son embarked in of our subject, was born in Buckingham the mercantile business under the firm name township, and spent his entire life there, en- of A. S. Hellyer & Son, and opened their gaged in agricultural pursuits. He was very store in the Armstrong Building on Main fond of hunting, and, as the woods of those street, Doylestown ; their patronage increased

days were filled with all kinds of game, he, so rapidly that it soon became necessary for being an excellent marksman, spent much them to enlarge their stock and store room, time gunning. He died about 1830. He and they accordingly erected their present first married a Miss Van Horn, by whom he handsome brick structure, into which they

had one son, David, now deceased. His moved on Christmas, 1 the 897 ; building is 3 second wife was a Miss Walton, and this stories high, with a 50 foot front and a depth union resulted in the birth of four children, of 140 feet. They carry the largest stock of all are of whom now deceased : Joshua Ander- goods of any general store in Bucks County, son, our subject's father ; Benjamin ; Mary keeping ; a general line of gents' furnishing Hattie. and goods, dry goods, groceries, boots and shoes, Anderson Hellyer Joshua was born in Buck- clothing, carpets, and all other goods which ingham township, five miles from Doyles- go to make a complete department store. town, and spent his life entire there prose- The firm does an exceedingly large business, cuting the vocation of a farmer. also He having built up an enviable patronage by its burned lime for many years, and was quite capable and honest business methods, and by successful in all his business undertakings. keeping the kind of store that is desired by He wedded Mary Ann Cress, and they reared the people; they give employment to six a family of eight sons and one daughter, of clerks who are constantly kept busy in order which our subject was the second child. He to wait on the customers. died in 1866. Amos S. Hellyer was married, in 1854, Amos S. Hellyer was reared and educated to Anna C. Penrose, a daughter of Samuel in Buckingham and Plumstead townships; and Catherine Penrose, of Plumstead town- at ten years of age he began paddling his ship, and they have a family of two sons and own canoe, working out on a farm as a one daughter, namely; Arametta B. ; Val- BUCKvS COUNTY 351

a large circle more M. ; and Samuel A. Valmore M. oper- beloved and highly esteemed by

ates a stone crusher and sells fertilizers at of friends, for their probity of conduct, kind-

Centerville, and is recognized as one of the liness of heart, and their unswerving fidelity able and successful business men of that vil- to every obligation in life endear them as lage. He wedded I,ettie Fell, a member of nothing else can. the numerous Fell family of Eastern Penn- sylvania, and they are the parents of two children. Alma and Amos N. Samuel A.

Hellyer is a member of the firm of A. S. ^AUL H. APPLEBACH, who ranks Hellyer & Son, and has had much experience among the foremost of the many Is in mercantile business. He received a good able attorneys-at-laws of Doyles-

elementary- education in the schools of Cen- town, is descended from an old and highly terville, and at the Doylestown Classical respected family, well known throughout Seminary, and upon leaving school spent his Bucks County, having been established in

first year in the mercantile business at Green- this country in 1770. He is a son of William

ville ; the next five years was spent in a store and Sarali (Walp) Applebach, and was born

at Yardley ; and after continuing several near Applebachsville, Haycock township,

years in the same business at Trenton, N. J., Bucks County, February 8, 1854. he located at Doylestown, and with his father His ancestors were natives of Germany, embarked in merchandising. The instinctive and for a remote period lived at Wittgen-

uprightness of Samuel A. Hellyer in his stein, in Westphalia, which is located upon dealings with his fellow men, his charity for the Rhine about sixty miles northeast of

the worthy poor, and the generous support Cologne. It is thought that the family name he gives to all measures tending to promote originated there subsequent to 1350; in at-

the interests of the county and state, mark tempts to Anglicise it, in this country, it has him as a man worthy of the esteem and con- been variously spelled, as OfHerbach, Apple-

fidence in which he is held by his friends and back, Afiierbage, but the name is generally neighbors. He was united in the bonds of spelled Applebach or Afflerbach.

matrimony with Martie White, of Trenton, The first of this prominent family to im-

N. J., and both of them vie with each other migrate to this country was Johan Henrich in dispensing a generous hospitality to all Afterbach, who made the voyage from Rot- those who come under their roof. They are terdam, Holland, on the good ship "Sally,"

the proud parents of two daughters, Grace landing in Philadelphia October 29, 1770, and Caroline. He subsequently located in Springfield town-

Amos S. Hellyer is a well-informed and ship, Bucks County, and it is recorded that public-spirited man and takes a deep interest he was admitted as a member of the Company

in everything pertaining to the welfare of the of Associators, August 21, 1775. There he public. Mr. and Mrs. Hellyer are warmly was married to Marie Renshimer, by whom 352 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES he had the following offspring: John, who evidenced by the fact that no less than eight moved to Mifflin County, Pa., and whose hundred people were in attendance upon his funeral. Henry Applebach, born November descendants spell their names Applebaugh ; Henry, who located about a mile above 28, 1818, was also a well-known and enter- Bursonville, Springfield township, where he prising man, and for some years served as kept a hotel at Applebachs- spent his life ; Daniel, the grandfather of our postmaster and subject; Elizabeth, the wife of Abraham ville. He married August 29, 1848, Sarah Raudenbush; Catharine, the wife of Nich- Jane Ely, a daughter of James Ely, of Mon- roe and they became the parents of olas Raudenbush ; and Rosina. County,

Daniel Applebach, who was born in Spring- four children : James ; Daniel ; Camilla ; and field township, July 12, 1788, was a cooper Sarah Jane. The rest of the children born by trade, but followed farming a greater part to Daniel Applebach were: William, the

subject ; Harriet ; Catherine of his life. He moved to Haycock township father of our ; and settled near what is now Applebachsville, and L/Ucy Ann. where he became the owner of considerable William Applebach was born in Haycock land. On May 15, 1833, he was appointed township, Bucks County, May 18, 1821, and justice of the peace by Governor George Wolf, during his entire life was engaged in farming and continued in that capacity imtil his death, and droving. Politically, he was a Democrat,

August 18, 1852, at the age of sixty-four years, whilst in religious attachments, he was a his wife surviving him four years. On June member of the German Reformed Church

2, 181 1, he formed a marital union with and served as an elder for a number of years. Catherine Apple, a daughter of Paul and His death occurred in August, 1891, aged Christina (Kappes) Apple, and they had six seventy years. He was joined in marriage

children. Paul, the eldest, born in 1816, be- January 1 1, 1846, with Sarah Walp, a daugh- came one of the prominent men of his section, ter of George Walp, and their union resulted both in business and military circles. He in the followed issue: Emma, of Applebachs- and his brother dealt extensively in horses ville Paul H., the gentleman name ; whose

and cattle, and in partnership they purchased heads these lines ; and Lizzie, who also re- a tract of 377 acres, known as the Stokes sides at Applebachsville. farm, in 1847. In the following year they Paul H. Applebach received his primary began the erection of buildings, and through education in the public schools and then their industry and that of their brother Wil- attended the Keystone State Normal School liam, built up a flourishing village, which of Kutztown, Pa., from which excellent

was named Applebachsville in their honor. school he was graduated in 1 874. One year Paul Applebach was called to his home be- prior to his graduation he taught school in yond the river of Death, March 26, 1872, at lychigh County, and after leaving school the age of fifty-six years and four months, taught in Allentown, becoming principal of and his high standing in the community was the Third Ward School. He met with much BUCKS COUNTY 353

success in that line of work, and as time and past high priest of Doylestown R. A. C, advanced was made principal of the High No. 270; and of the Aquetong Lodge, No.

School at Hummelstown, Dauphin County, 193, I. O. O. F., of which he is a past grand. where he remained one year, relinquishing He was also one of the founders of the that position to accept that of superintendent Doylestown Trust Company in 1896, and is In of public schools at Cape May C. H., N. J. one of the directors of that organization. He continued in the latter capacity for two religious belief, he is a member of the years, when he took up the study of law Reformed Church. under the direction of Hon. Harman Yerkes, the president judge of the Seventh Judicial District of Pennsylvania. Upon his admis- fEWIS R WORTHINGTON, the pre- sion to the bar in 1880, he entered upon his sent popular cashier of the Doyles- practice at Doylestown, and soon established —i*^ town National Bank, and a highly a good clientage. He was admitted to the esteemed and respected business man of that Supreme Court in 1883. In the fall of 1891, borough, is descended from an old and pioneer he was elected district attorney, and assumed family of this county of English Quaker the duties of that oiEce on the first Monday origin. He was born in Buckingham town- in January, 1892, serving a term of three ship, Bucks County, Pa., June 26, 1833, and years. He has a thorough knowledge of the is a son of Joel and Mary (Palmer) Worthing-

law, is earnest and untiring in the prosecu- ton, and grandson of Anthony Worthington. tion of cases for his clients, remains cool and The founders of the Worthington family unruffled in the heat of an argument, and, in this country were three brothers, John, being a convincing speaker, he has won the Samuel and Thomas, who emigrated from England, to America in major portion of the actions in which he has lyancashire, 1705 ; been engaged. He is a man who is every- one of the brothers, of whom our subject is a where respected, and he has many friends direct descendant, settled in Byberry, Phila- throughout the county. delphia County, where the two succeeding resided, and their principal occu- May 18, 1893, Mr. Applebach formed a generations matrimonial alliance with May Hulshizer, a pation was the following of agricultural pursuits they were all prominently identified daughter of Daniel and Margaret Hulshizer, ; of Doylestown. For twenty years he has with the Society of Friends. Anthony Wor- been an active worker in the Democratic thington, our subject's grandfather, was also party, and has. been a delegate to county, born in Byberry, Philadelphia County, on

district, state, and national conventions. In the old homestead, but in early life came 1896 he was a delegate to the Democratic to Buckingham township, this county. He National Convention held in Chicago. So- was engaged in tilling the soil all his life, in

cially, he is a member of the Doylestown which he was remarkably successful; he

is master. also a devoted and consistent member of Ivodge, No. 24s, F. & A. M. ; past was ;

354 BOOK OP BIOGRAPHIES

the Friends' Meeting. He was joined in 1897 the present bank building was com- its are large and commodious marriage with Deborah Walton, by whom he pleted ; rooms reared a family of five children, —three sons and are elegantly furnished. Our subject is and two daughters. widely known in his township as a man of is Joel Worthingtoii,' the father of our sub- many sterling qualities ; he a kind and ject, was born on the old Worthington home- generous friend and neighbor, a dutiful citi- stead in Buckingham township, where he zen, and enjoys the confidence and respect of

spent his entire life prosecuting the vocation a large circle of acquaintances. of a farmer; he was well known throughout Mr. Worthington was joined in the bonds his township, and was an industrious and of matrimony with Ivouisa Cooke of L,itch-

energetic worker, enjoying the good-will of field. Conn., and they are the proud parents

a host of friends. He was a member of the of two children, namely : Caroline, the wife Society of Friends. He departed from this of Rev. James S. Stone, pastor of the St.

life in 1872. As a result of his marriage James' Episcopal Church of Chicago, 111., with "Mary Palmer, a family of four children and formerly pastor of the Grace Episcopal

was born to them, namely : Elizabeth, de- Church of Philadelphia, one of the leading

ceased ; Lewis P., the subject of this brief churches of that city ; and Mary, the wife of

memoir ; Dr. Anthony H. is a practicing Isaac Judson Booth. Religiously, Mr. Wor-

physician of Trenton, N. J. ; and Howard, thington is a prominent member and liberal deceased. supporter of the Episcopal Church of Doyles-

Ivcwis P. Worthington was reared to mantown, and has held the office of warden since hood upon his father's farm, and was in- i860.

tellectually trained for the battles of life in the common schools of that vicinity, and later attended a boarding school at Norris- yMII,^Mil, W. HARING, who has been serving

town, Pa. leaving school at the age of J— ^ as prothonotary since 1897, is a nineteen years, the three succeeding years highly respected resident of Doylestown. He were spent in teaching in the public schools is a son of Charles C. and Fredericke (Ma- in the meantime he had studied civil engi- melle) Haring, and was born in Philadelphia, neering, and, in 1855, entered the employ of July 7, 1854. the Huntingdon & Broadtop Railroad, re- Charles C. Haring, the father of our sub- maining in its service until 1857, when he ject, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany,

gave up that position to accept a position December 19, 1820, and there grew to man- as bookkeeper in the Doylestown National hood. In 1848, he immigrated to the United Bank, in which capacity he remained until States and located in Philadelphia, where he

1896, upon the death of John J. Brock, followed the trade of a cabinetmaker until cashier of the bank, he when was appointed 1 86 1, when he moved to Richland township, to his present position, that of cashier. In Bucks County. He then turned his atten-

"SSWk;!,

VJ^. e^Meia u a. j^clojirn. A',_/

^. ^^. ^J^Uyl-^2^fA^_ :

BUCKS COUNTY 357

tion to cultivating the soil, and by good of 1400 votes. Mr. Haring is well known

management and industrious labor accumu- throughout the county for his honesty, strict

lated a handsome competency, which enabled integrity, and superior executive ability, him to spend his declining years in retire- which well qualify him for a position of so ment. He passed to his eternal reward De- much importance. He has previously served

cember 19, 1897. He was a Republican in as auditor, registration assessor, and was post- his political affiliations, and in religious be- master of Shelly for a period of eight years,

lief was a consistent Lutheran. Prior to being first appointed in 1878. He has been

coming to this country, he married Fredericke: a very active supporter of tlie Republican

Mamelle, in Kierchain, Germany, in. 1848, party in local politics. and their union was blessed by the birth of He was united in the holy bonds of matri-

four children : Louisa, the wife of Adolph mony with Sarah J. Whetzell, of Danville,.

Jaeckel, of Philadelphia ; Charles C, "the Montour Coimty, November 19, 1878, and popular cashier of the Quakertown National they are the happy parents of four children

; . Bank ; Emil W. , whose name appears at the Freda Bertha ; Charles ; and Emil. Reli-

head of these lines ; and Henry G;, who ; is' giously, he is a member of the Mennonite connected with the Pacific Express Company Church of East Swamp, Milford township. at Terrell, Texas. Emil W. Haring was but seyen .years of age when he came to Richland .township: with his fatherJs family, and there he was- flTNEV. DOUGLAS K. TURNER, who

reared and educated in the schools. He the"n is descended from a prominent New

entered a store at Quakertown as clerk, where England family, is a man of high he gained a varied experience in different educational attainments, and was for a quar- lines of work as the store was combined with ter of a century pastor of the Presbyterian

the express office and also the post office. Church at Neshaminy, but since I073 ^i^s He remained in that capacity for five been spending his declining years in retire- years, after which he became station agent ment, although he is still ^n active member at Shelly for the North Pennsylvania Rail- of the Bucks County Bible Society and the road, which has since been merged into the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. He is a Philadelphia & Reading Railroad. At the son of Bela and Mary (Nash) Turner, and was

expiration of five years, he engaged in the born in Stockbridge, Mass., December 17, .coal and feed business in Shelly, continuing 1823. until 1896, and in the year following he was He traces his ancestry back to the year elected prothonotary by the Republican party. 1630, when the family was established in this The candidate of the opposition for that office country by Nathaniel Turner, who came from was W. H. Benner, of Richlandtown, who England with Governor Winthrop and landed was defeated by the overwhelming majority at Salem, Mass. He was one of the early 358 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

settlers of the and soon after landing ceased ; Mary, deceased ; Eliza, deceased colony, ; moved to Lynn, Mass., where he remained Douglas K., a record of whose life is here

for some time, but finally in company with a given ; Susan, who died young ; Cornelia,

party numbering loo in all emigrated to Con- the wife of George H. Lathrop, of Traverse

necticut, where they founded New Haven, City, Mich , a farmer and fruit grower and which has become widely known throughout agent for a dry goods house of New York

the world as the seat of Yale University. In City ; Sarah, who resides with her sister,

the New Haven colony he was made captain Cornelia ; and Walter Henry, who died at the of all military affairs, as he was a man of ex- age of seven years. perience in that line, having taken an active Rev. Douglas K. Turner obtained his early part in the Pequot Indian War in 1636-37. education in the Hartford Grammar School, He held all of the offices of the colony and and in 1839 entered upon his college career owned considerable land in that district. at Yale College, and after taking a complete

Prior to coming to America, he made a repu- course was graduated with the class of 1843. tation as a military man by serving as cap- He was then engaged as a teacher in the Hart- tain in the army of Holland. For some years ford Grammar School for one year, after he was a member of the General Court of which he went to Andover, Mass., as a stu- Boston. His daughter married a Mr. Yale, dent in the Theological Seminary. After a which union resulted in the birth of Gover- lapse of one year he returned to New Haven nor Yale, whose name has gone down in his- and entered the Yale Theological Seminary, tory as the founder of the famous university where he remained for one year, and then, in bearing that name. 1846, came to Hartsville, Bucks County, Bela Turner, the father of our subject, was where he taught in the public schools for

born in New Haven, Conn., and was eight a period of eighteen months. In April, 1848, years of age when he moved to Stockbridge, he was installed as pastor of the Neshaminy Mass., with his father, Jebez Turner, and Presbyterian Church, and continued as such there learned the trade of a mechanic, which until his retirement in 1873. He is a man he followed until he moved to Hartford, whose great works of charity have gained for Conn., in 1835. He then became steward in him a high place in the affections of the peo- the Asylum for Deaf and Dumb, in which ple and have resulted in vast good to the com- capacity he served for eleven years, after munity at large. He always took great pride he to which moved Jackson, Mich., and there in the advancement and progress of his engaged as a purchaser of wool for an eastern adopted township, and is highly respected by firm. latter city his The was home until his all as a man of true worth and influence in demise, which occurred March 30, 1879. His the community. He is now a trustee and companion in the pathways of life was Mary treasurer of the Bucks County Bible Soci- Nash, died who November 3, 1863, and they ety, a member of the Historical Society of reared the following children: George, de- Pennsylvania, and a member of the Presby- ;

BUCKS COUNTY 359

tefian Historical Society of Philadelphia, of in the schools of his native township and in which he was secretary from 1883 to 1893. the well-known White Hall Academy of

Rev. Mr. Turner is living a peaceful life at Montgomery County. After meeting with present in his handsome home in Hartsville. the accident referred to above he decided

On May 14, 1856, he was joined in wed- upon the profession of medicine. Upon his lock with Rachael H. Darrah, a daughter of recovery, he accordingly took up the study of Harleysville, Robert and Catherine (Gait) Darrah ; she was medicine under Dr. Gross, of called Home August 13, 1863. He formed a Pa. Later he entered the Jefferson Medical second marital union May 28, 1868, with a College of Philadelphia, and upon his gradu- sister of his former wife, Rebecca Darrah, ation, which was in 1859, he located in Nock- who was born March 7, 1833, and has proved amixon township, where he soon built up a a true help-meet to her worthy husband. We large and lucrative practice, and was engaged take pleasure in announcing to the many in professional work in that vicinity for nearly friends and acquaintances of Rev. Mr. Turner thirty-five years. Dr. Grim was regarded as that his portrait is shown on a preceding one of the leading physicians of Bucks Coun- page. ty, and was a very successful practitioner he was a man of excellent judgment, and his unswerving integrity in business transactions EBSTER GRIM, an attorney-at-law won for him the esteem and confidence of his community. He was first and foremost in all Wiand an influential citizen of Doyles- and took a leading part in the town, Pa., was born in Nockamixou town- good works, development of his township and ship, this county, August 11, 1866, and is a material he contributed largely to son of Dr. George W. and Elizabeth P. county, and besides Politi- (Koous) Grim. moral, social and charitable objects. was an ardent Democrat. He passed The Grim family is of German and Scotch- cally, he

life March 6, 1892 ; his death was Irish ancestry, as the grandfather of our sub- from this not only mourned by his family and relatives, ject, Adam Grim, was united in marriage of friends, and his was with Catherine Desmond, a lady of Scotch- but by a large circle largest attended funeral ever in that sec- Irish extraction and a native of Chester the the county—all turned out to pay him County, Pa. Dr. George W. Grim, the father, tion of homage. He was a devoted member of was born in Montgomery County, Pa., March a last learned the the Reformed Church. He married Elizabeth 13, 1832, and in his early life Koons, and a family of six sons and three trade of a stove moulder, which he followed P. daughters blessed this union, all of whom a number of years, until he met with an ac- were well educated, and who have at various cident, seriously burning his foot with a taught in the public schools of this moulder, which injury made it impossible for times county. At one time all six sons were teach- him to continue his vocation. Dr. Grim pos- ing in various schools throughout Bucks sessed a good 'education, which he received ;

36o BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

County, but all have since changed their vo- of the Aquetong I^odge, No. 193, I. O. O. F. cation : three of them are now practicing is past chief of the St. Tammany Castle, and physicians; two are prominent members of an officer of the Grand Castle, K. G. E., and the Bucks County Bar, and one is a minister. is a member and collector of Ivcnaipe Council,

Webster Grim received his intellectual Royal Arcanum. He is the author of the training in the public schools, Riegelsville index and digest of the new K. G. B. consti- Academy, and in 1887 was graduated from tution, which has a large sale throughout the the Keystone State Normal School of Kutz- state. He edited and published the Bucks town. Pa. 1 Prior to his graduating from the County Directory for 894-98, and assisted in , State Normal, he taught school five years, the publication of the County Atlas of 1891. and in 1887 began the study of law in the Our subject formed a matrimonial alliance offices of N. C. and J. D. James, attorneys-at- with Alice Sassaman, a daughter of Jacob F. law, of Doylestown. He was admitted to the and Emeline Sassaman, of Bucksville, Pa., bar in they September, 1889, and has since prac- and were happily wedded August 9, ticed in the courts of Bucks County. He was 1 890. This union has been blessed by two elected justice of the peace in 1890, and is children, namely : Ruth S. and George W. now serving his second term in that capacity, having been elected in 1895. He is possessed of much natural musical talent, and has been a close student of music has ; he during his XIvIAM SIMPSON, who is ef- leisure hours composed many selections. He w.ficiently serving in the capacity organized and conducted the Vocal Union of of clerk of the Orphans' Court of Bucks Doylestown a number of years is ; a director County, is an influential citizen of Doyles- of the Arion Glee Club, and for five years was town and a prominent member of the Repub- precentor of the Presbyterian Church in lican party. For almost two centuries, on Doylestown. He also had charge of the music both the paternal and maternal sides of the at the teachers' county institute for some house, his ancestors have been prominently eight years, and directed the music at the identified with the agricultural interests of dedication of the new public school building, Bucks County, and have aided materially in the Governor of Pennsylvania and other dig- establishing the prestige that county now nitaries being present. enjoys in its relations with other counties of Mr. Grim is a Democrat in politics, a leader the state. Our subject is a son of Benjamin in his community, and has represented his and Rebecca (Satterthwaite) Simpson, and fellow-citizens in county, district and state was born near New Hope, Solebury town- conventions. In 1894 he was the nominee of ship, Bucks County, November 24, 1864. his party for district attorney, but was de- The Simpson family is of Scotch-Irish feated in the general landslide, though he extraction, and traces its ancestry to John polled a large vote. Socially, he is a member Simpson, who was born in the north of Ire- BUCKS COUNTY ,361

land in 1712, and, in 1730, in company with Atkinson, a record of whose life appears else- two brothers sought in a home America, where in this Book of Biographies ; Dr. Col- finally locating in Solebury township, Bucks lins, a prominent physician of Philadelphia ; County, Pa. He acquired an extensive tract and a daughter, who married Mark Wright, of land, most of which was located in that who attained distinction as a minister of the township, and to this day a portion of the Society of Friends. Ruth married Amos original estate has remained in the posses- Hillborn, whose grandson, Amos, was the sion of his descendants. He was one of the senior member of the firm of Amos Hillborn pioneers of that section, and passed through & Co., well known furniture dealers of Phila- all of the vicissitudes characteristic of farm delphia. James married Susanna Satterth- life in that day, dying in 1746. He was waite, and their descendants are principally married to Hannah Delaplane, and of five located in Falls and lyower Makefield town- children born to them one was John. ships. John Simpson was born in Solebury town- David Simpson, the great-grandfather of ship, October 23, 1739, and during his active our subject, was born on the old homestead days was engaged in the cultivation of the in 1765, and after reaching manhood occu- soil, dying in August, 181 1. He was a minis- pied a portion of that estate, and carried on ter of the Gospel and an active worker in the farming dviring life, dying in 1831. He was Friends' Meeting at Buckingham. He was a Friend in his religious views. He married joined in wedlock with Ruth Whitson, and Agnes Wiggins, whose nephew, Benjamin

they had a family of five children, namely : Wiggins, was at one time commissioner of

David ; Hannah ; Ruth and Bucks their union blessed ; John ; James. County, and was

Hannah became the wife of Samuel Shim, with the following children ; Ruth, who and among their descendants might be men- married William Betts, by whom she had tioned : James P. Shim, formerly a druggist five children, —Sarah, who married Hugh at Broad and Spruce streets, but now a direc- Michener, and whose daughter became the tor of the Pennsylvania Hospital at Philadel- wife of Warren S. Ely, ex-clerk of the Or- brother. Court, Betts, phia ; his Earl Shim, who was an phans' William Samuel, J.

artist of much prominence ; Samuel Ash, a Simpson, and Stephen ; Sarah, the wife of prominent minister in the Society of Friends, Merick Reeder; John, the grandfather of otSr and formerly associated in business with subject; Rachel, Hannah, and Agnes were

Amos Hillborn & Co. ; his brother, Humph- never married. rey Ash, who is treasurer of Delaware County, John Simpson was also one of the leading Pa.; and Anna Shim, the wife of Samuel agriculturists of Solebury township. He Shipley, president of the Provident L,ife & married Letitia Buckman, a daughter of Trust Company of Philadelphia. John Simp- Joseph and Elizabeth (Linton) Buckman, son married Elizabeth Blackfan, and among and they reared five children, namely : Jo-

branch are : T. seph B. ; Benjamin W. ; David ; Elizabeth those descended from this O. ; 362 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

and Agnes. Joseph B. married Macre Ann becca Satterthwaite, and one son was born Flowers, and upon her demise formed a se- to them. cond union with Sarah P. Eyre, daughter Mrs. Simpson comes of a very prominent of Preston and Macre (Pickering) Eyre, by family and is of English descent. The ear- whom he had three children: Edward, Charles liest ancestor of whom there is any authen- and Martha. David married Tacy Satter- tic record was Clement S. Satterthwaite, a re- thwaite, and they had one daughter, Anna. sident of Cragg, Coulthouse, in Claff, Palan- Elizabeth married Amos Sattertliwaite, and tine, County of Lancaster, Eng., where his their union was blessed by the birth of four son William was born. The latter married children : Agnes ; Mary, the relict of Mahlon Agnes Baithwaite, and a son Michael was Taylor; William married Mary Croasdale of born to them in 1678. Michael Satter- Byberry; and Pierson Mitchell, bookkeeper thwaite was united in marriage with Esther of the William C. Newport Co., manufac- Tyson, and they had a son William, who turers of fertilizers, who married lyouise Burr was born in England, ist month, 28th day, of Mount Holly, N. J., and resides at Willow 1 709, and at the age of twenty-five years im- Grove. Agnes Simpson married David Pal- migrated to America, locating in Lower mer of Lower Makefield township, and they Makefield township, Bucks County, Pa. He children have two ; Elizabeth and Anna. formed a matrimonial alliance, 2d month, Mrs. Palmer is now matron of the Friends' 15th day, 1736, with Pleasant Meade, a daugh- Home of Newtown, this county, and is a vir- ter of William Meade, who came to this tuous woman, possessing the love and admir- country with William Penn, and was a lineal ation of all with whom she comes in con- ancestor of General Meade, the victor of the tact, for her many charitable deeds. battle of Gettysburg. They reared one son, Benjamin W. Simpson, the father of the William, who followed the occupation of his gentleman whose name heads these lines, father, that of farming. This son was a mem- was born February 23, 1830, on the old ber of the Friends' Meeting, as were his an- homestead, where he spent his youthful days cestors, his father having brought a certificate in performing the labors upon the farm. from the Friends of Swarthmore, Eng., to Upon attaining maturity, he went to live the Friends at Middletown, where he became ^ith his uncle, L,evi Buckman, working on a member. William Satterthwaite, Jr., mar- farm for his a period of two years, when he ried Mary Knight, a daughter of Giles Knight, took charge of the estate of his two aunts, who was of English birth, but after coming to Hannah and Agnes, and continued to man- this country represented Philadelphia County age it until their demise. He then conducted in Congress. Among the children reared by it on his own account until 1874, when he them, William married Elizabeth Watson, moved to New Hope, and there dealt in cat- and Susanna married James Simpson, a bro- tle until his death on February 12, 1877. ther of David, who is mentioned above. He was united in hymeneal bonds with Re- William and his wife Elizabeth reared ten BUCKS COUNTY 363 children, the eldest of whom was Amos Sat- always been an enthusiastic Republican, and terthwaite, the grandfather of our subject on is an influential worker in the councils of the maternal side. The latter married Re- the party. He served as auditor of New becca Carlisle, and three children blessed Hope for three years, and has served as a their home, one of whom, Rebecca, was delegate to county, district and state con- joined in wedlock with Benjamin W. Simp- ventions. son, our subject's father. Mr. Simpson and Eazetta Townsend Tom- William Simpson, the subject of this per- linson, of Middletown township, took the sonal history, was nine years of age when he marriage vows on June 10, 1896. They are moved with his parents to the borough of both devout members of the Society of

New Hope in 1873. He attended the public Friends of Middletown. He is a man of schools there until he was fifteen years of high character, and has added many to his age, when he went to live with an uncle upon large circle of friends since moving to Doyles- a farm in Solebury township, working during town. the summer months and attending school during the winters for the following two years. Being studious by nature, he dili- ]CpWARD RICHARDSON is of the fifth gently applied himself to his school books, J generation of the Richardson fa- and acquired an excellent training in the mily who have spent .their lives on our sub-

English language. Upon leaving school at ject's present homestead, and he is a worthy the age of seventeen years, he entered the representative of one of the oldest and long employ of the I^ambertville Spoke Manufac- remembered families of Bucks County. He turing Company, as shipping clerk, and con- is a son of Joshua and Mary (Knight) Richard- tinued in that capacity for thirteen months, son, and grandson ofJoseph and Mary (Dixon) relinquishing that position on April i, 1883. Richardson. The following September he engaged in The first of this prosperous family to cross teaching school, and, as he proved an able the great waters of the Atlantic, to make a instructor, he continued at that occupation new home on American soil, was Joseph for three years in Solebury township. For Richardson, the great great grandfather of the following three years he was not engaged our subject, who landed in this country about in any line of work, as his health would not the year 1724, and settled, in 1732, at a place it later permit it, but in 1889 he took up agricul- called Four Lanes' End ; was known tural pursuits, and followed farming until as Attleboro and is now Langhorne. He was

born in England, January 4, 1696 (Old Style), 1 896, when he was elected clerk of the Or- phans' Court, a position for which he is and was a son of William and Elizabeth eminently qualified. He entered upon the Richardson. Joseph brought with him- a flail for threshing, a small bundle of clothes, duties of that office January 4, 1897, and his and a piece of money called a groat, equal to term will expire January 3, 1900. He has _

364 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

four pence, which constituted his worldly union with Sarah Preston, a daughter ofJonas possessions. He hired to William Paxson to Preston, of Chester County, Pa., in 1761, thresh grain during the winter. About 1738 they had six children, viz., Sarah, Mary, he erected the house in L,anghorne, in which Jane, Joseph, Martha, and Ruth. Joseph our subject and his sisters now live, which is owned much of the original estate, and was still standing, and bids fair to stand many a well-to-do man of his community. He years to it is of the old landmarks married Mary Dixon, came from come ; one who Eng- of this county. He was two years in erect- land with her parents when but a child of ing this substantial dwelling, as the timber six years. They reared the following chil- was hewed by hand from yellow pine and dren : Joshua, John, Rachael, Mary and Sarah.

oak ; the doors and window-frames are of yel- He died August 28, 1826, aged fifty-seven low poplar, worked out of solid wood. After years and eleven months, while his wife de- the house was completed, he opened his store parted from this earth. May 29, 1834, aged in its southeast corner; his goods were fifty-six years and six months. brought from Bristol by cart to which place Joshua Richardson was born March 6, 1803, they were taken by boat. It was the only and attended the Friends' school of his vi-

store between Bristol and Durham. Joseph cinity ; he always pursued the vocation of a soon built up quite a trade, the profits of farmer, and spent his entire life on the home- which were used in buying lands, and at the stead, dying there May 16, 1874. He was time of his death, which occurred April 15, twice married, his first wife being Mary C. 1772, he left an estate of 1023 acres of land. Hunt, a daughter of James and Mary W. married Mary in He Paxson 1732, and she Hunt ; his second union was with Mary died in 1786. During the Revolutionary Knight, a native of L,ower Makefield town, War, after the battle of Trenton, some of the ship, and a daughter of Joshua and Jane soldiers came to this neighborhood, and the Knight. She died February 2, 1883, leaving kitchen was used by part of them, while the a family of three children, namely: Joseph^ officers occupied one of the rooms in the who is engaged in farming in Middletown other part of the house. Our subject re- township and ; Edward and Mary J., who re- members that his great-aunt, Jane Richard- side on the homestead. son, often spoke of how she saw the muskets Edward Richardson, the subject of this stacked up in the corner of the room occu- memoir, has always been engaged in the cul- pied the officers, by around the old clock, tivation of the soil, but is now living in re- which is still ticking away in the same old tirement ; he is well known throughout the place. southern portion of the county, possessing Richardson, Joshua our subject's great- many warm friends. He and his sister, grandfather, was also born on the old home- Mary J., have spent their lives on the homestead, and inherited his father's property, stead. They made a pleasure trip to Cali- and lived there all his life. As a result of his fornia, Oregon, Washington, Montana, visited

CAPT. RICHARD MARTIN DONNALDSON. —

BUCKS COUNTY 367

the Yellowstone National Park, and many died, and when Captain Donnaldson returned other places of interest in the West. Our from his voyage he gave up life on the sea,

subject, as was his father, is a strong Repub- and went to farming on the homestead. He

lican in politics ; religiously, he and his sister died in 1873. He was joined in marriage are devoted members of the Society of with Harriet Currie, a descendant of one of

Friends. the pioneer families of this county ; three children blessed the home of this union,

namely: Helen, born January 5, 1834, re- tlDWARD M. DONNAIvDSON, a prom- sides with our subject during the summer -* inent and prosperous farmer of months, and in the winter makes her home

in Philadelphia died in infancy ; and Bucks County, Pa., is the owner of a farm ; John beautifully situated in New Britain town- Edward M., the subject of this sketch. Our ship, which consists of 167 acres of highly subject's mother passed from this life in 1882.

improved land. This highly esteemed citi- Edward M. Donnaldson prepared himself to encounter the difl&culties of life in the zen was born on his present farm March 4, 1837, and is a son of Captain Richard Martin public and private schools of his native town- and Harriet (Currie) Donnaldson, and grand- ship and Tremont Seminary at Norristown, son of John Donnaldson. Pa. Upon leaving school our subject took John' Donnaldson, the grandfather of our possession' of the homestead, which he has subject, was born and reared in the city of since greatly improved and put in a high cultivation,' and has successfully car- Philadelphia ; he was a broker in that city state of many years, and was one of the founders of ried on general farming up to the present

the City Troop of Philadelphia, and at the time. Mr. ' Donnaldson is widely known battle of Trenton was one of General Wash- throughout- the township, and is classed ington's aides. In 1760, John purchased our among the leading and representative farmers he actively supports subject's present farm in New Britain town- of his community ; any ship, this county, arid built a part of the enterprise which in his opinion is conducive

house which is now being occupied by our to the general welfare of the township and subject. county. Captain Richard Martin Donnaldson, the In politics, our subject upholds the princi- father of our subject, was born and reared in ples of the Republican party, and has served Philadelphia. Early in life he began work- his fellow-citizens as school director and as ing on a merchant vessel, and at fourteen judge of elections. Religiously, he is an years was a captain at sea, and with his active member and supporter of the Episco- brother, Edward M., followed that line of pal Church, and his wife is a Methodist. Mr. business until he attained the age of forty Donnaldson, in 1 864, married Anna Stagner,

of Montgomery County, Pa. , and a daughter years ; while at sea en route for China, his brother Hugh, who had accompanied him. of Lewis and Rachael Stagner, both of whom

»9 ;

•368 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

are now deceased; her father died in 1873, children, namely: Edward, deceased ; Benja- and her mother in 1891. Three children min, deceased; Williaxn D., the subject of

were born to Mr. and Mrs. Donnaldson, as this sketch ; Sarah, deceased ; Harrison died

follows : Sarah Milner ; Rachael S. ; and in the Union Army during the Civil War

Helen, all of whom remain at home. Our Mathias is a farmer and lives in the state of

subject has a valuable collection of old relics, Kansas ; Theodore is a resident of Philadel-

such as war clubs, which he takes great pride phia, where he is engaged in the manufacture

in showing; they were left to him by his of cider, and all other soft drinks ; Everitt, father. deceased; Eveline, deceased; and Kinsey, a We take pleasure in announcing that a resident of Lower Makefield township. The portrait of Captain Richard Martin Donnald- mother of our subject died in 1852. Mr.

son appears in connection with the above life Harvey was married the second time to Mrs.

history. Martha Murfit, widow of Joshua Murfit ; she

died February 6, 1891. Mr. Harvey departed this earth in February, 1882.

II.I.IAM D. HARVEY is well known William D. Harvey obtained a common W".throughout Upper Makefield town- school education, and early in life began ship as being an active and progressive citi- farming; in August, 1862, however, he en-

zen and a man of many excellent qualities. listed in Co. C, 128th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., at He has been occupied with agricultural pur- Doylestown, and at the battle of Antietam

suits in the above township all his life, and was wounded in the left shoulder by a bul- is the owner of a handsome homestead. He let ; after remaining four and a half months was born on the old Harvey homestead, June in the hospital at Philadelphia, he received 16, 1839, and is a son of Kinsey and Eveline an honorable discharge in March, 1863. He (Doan) Harvey, and a grandson of Mathias immediately returned home and took charge Harvey. of the homestead, which he has held to the

The Harvey family was first founded in present time. Besides general farming, he is this country by the great-grandfather of our also engaged in stock-raising to a large ex- subject, who came from England and made tent his ; farm, comprising 87 acres, he has a settlement in Upper Makefield township. put under a high state of cultivation. Mr.

Mathias Harvey was born in that township, Harvey has many friends throughout his sec- and lived there all his life engaged in agri- tion of the county, who hold him in high cultural pursuits. Kinsey Harvey, the father esteem ; he is a good neighbor and citizen, of our subject, was also born on the Harvey and is always ready to assist in measures homestead and was educated to farming, which in his opinion tend to promote the which was his life's vocation. He was twice general welfare.

joined in marriage ; his first wife was Eveline In 1864, Mr. Harvey was wedded to Sarah Doan, by whom he reared a family of ten A. Vansant of Middletown, a daughter of ;;

BUCKS COUNTY 369

John Vansant, now deceased, who was a ceased, the wife of Samuel King, who is also prominent farmer of Middletown township. deceased. She died in 1882, leaving a family of three Edward Pool, the father of our subject, was

children : Anna M., the wife of Russell born in Buckingham township May i, 1809, Cooper, a farmer of Northampton township and was educated to agricultural pursuits, ;

Harrison, deceased ; and Andrew V., a resi- which vocation he followed throughout his

dent of I^ambertville, N. J. Our subject active career. In 1 840 he married and settled formed a second matrimonial alliance with down on our subject's present farm, then

Mrs. Anna Ivce, ne6 Mahan, of Newtown, known as the Warner farm ; he has been very Pa. Fraternally, Mr. Harvey is a member prominent in his community and served his of the G. A. R., Post No. 427, of Newtown fellow-citizens twenty-five years as justice

in his political views, he is identified with of the peace, the duties of which office he the Republican party, with which he uni- honestly and faithfully discharged. Mr. formly and conscientiously casts his vote. Pool is still living ; he was always an active

He has served twelve years as a school direc- and public-spirited citizen, ready at all times tor of Upper Makefield township. to assist in the advancement and prosperity of his community and county. In politics he was a Republican. He was wedded to Mary Thornton, who was born in Upper Makefield

INFIELD S. POOL is an energetic township in 1808, and died there October 30, Wiand industrious farmer of Upper 1895. They reared a family of six children, Makefield township, Bucks County, and is as follows : Maggie, deceased, was the wife descended from one of the pioneer families of of Jacob LeSerts, a hat manufacturer of Phila-

this section. He is prominent in his com- delphia ; Rachel is the wife of William L.

munity of which he is a life-long resident, Lalue, a farmer of -Solebury township ; Elmira and his friends are many. He was born on was united in marriage with Hiram Hellyer, a

his present farm March 8, 1 849, and is a son farmer of Upper Makefield township ; Martha of Edward Q. and Mary (Thornton) Pool. wedded Albert Slack, also a farmer of the The grandfather of our subject was Wil- same township; Winfield S., the subject of

liam Pool, of Buckingham township, and this memoir ; and Victoria, deceased. later a resident of Southampton township Winfield S. Pool passed his boyhood days his vocation was that of a farmer, and at the on the farm, and attended the district time of his death he was living in the village school, presided over by his father, who of Moreland. He died at the age of eighty- taught there some twelve years. Later he

eight years, while his wife passed from life at farmed on the homestead; April i, 1877, he the age of seventy seven years. He was the took possession of his present estate, which father of five children, namely: William; consists of 96 acres. Our subject is exten-

; ; de- sively interested in stock-raising and is Ezra ; Edward Thomas and Martha, classed 370 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

among the progressive and enterprising far- other farm near Richboro, and resided there mers of Bucks County. until his death, which occurred September

On October i6, 1872, Mr. Pool and Eliza 24, 1882; he also owned two other farms in

Van Hart were joined in marriage ; she was Northampton township, including the well-

born in Upper Makefield township May 5, known White Bear Hotel property, and was 1855, and is the daughter of Charles and recognized as a thorough-going business man Eliza (Tomblinson) Van Hart, both of whom in every respect. He was joined in marriage are now deceased. Three children have been with Ruth Slack of Tinicum township, a

born to our subject and wife, namely : Mag- daughter of Jesse and Amy Slack; her father

gie L,., born August 31, John T., Feb- was a farmer and died in this county Septem- 1873 ;

ruary 1 2, 1 879 ; and Reba E. , November 9, ber 25, 1882, and her mother died July 14, 1887. Mr. Pool is a firm Republican in poli- 1876. Mr. I^uff was a member of the Baptist

tics ; socially he is a member of the I. O. O. E. Church. He was the father of six children, lyodge of New Hope. as follows : Oliver J. , a retired farmer of Richboro, married Jane Gilkyson, and has two children, —Minnie, the wife of Rowland Bennett, a farmer of Hartsville, and Carrie,

UTrANKIvIN p. I.UEF is a prosperous the wife of Joshua Atkinson, a painter of

_L « farmer of Northampton township, Richboro ; Franklin P. , the subject of this

Bucks County, Pa., and learned the methods sketch ; George R., a farmer of Northampton of farming from his father, who resided in township, wedded Elizabeth Wyncoop, and the same township. He owns two fine has five children,—William, Ruth, Mabel,

farms, both finely cultivated, the old L,uff Kate, and Rachael ; Harry K., a farmer of

homestead, and the J. K. Craven property, Northampton township, whose sketch may making the latter place his home. He was be found on another page of this Book of born on the old homestead in Northampton Biographies ; Stephen B., who lives out West, township, August 27, 1853, and is a son of wedded Belle K. Scott of Newtown town-

Alfred and Ruth (Slack) I,uff. His grand- ship ; and Sarah who died in childhood.

father was David I^uff, of Tinicum township, Franklin P. L,uflF received a limited educa-

who married Sarah Garis of the same town- tion in the common schools, as did the rest ship, and reared a family of nine children, of his brothers and sisters, and began the six daughters and three sons. cultivation of the soil on his father's farm, Alfred lyuff and his brother Joseph bought remaining there until he attained the age of a farm near Richboro, and operated the same twenty-six. After his marriage he began in partnership for three years, at the ex- working the farm on his own account and piration of which period our subject's father remained upon the same until the spring of became sole proprietor, and resided thereon 1 890, when he bought his present homestead twenty-eight years. He then moved to his of John K. Craven, which property consists —:

BUCKS COUNTY 371

of 61 acres; he rents the old homestead, Annetta Fleshour, and has four children, which comprises 157 acres. He buih the Walter, Annetta, Elsie, and Harvey R. John present barn on the homestead in 1885, and J.. Raab, a prosperous farmer, living near remodeled the house in 1890. He has pur- Huntingdon Valley, married Louisa Martin, chased the Ryan lots adjoining his present daughter of George and Margaret Martin, farm, since taking possession of it. Our and has two children, —Hannah H., and G. subject has followed the markets of Phila- Martin. Four children have been born to delphia for the last twenty-five years, making Mr. and Mrs. Luff, and are as follows several trips to that city. I,uflF Alfred H., born May 2, 1881 Milton, May a week Mr. ; J. is a practical farmer, being thoroughly ac- 20, 1884; Horace R., July 31, 1887; and quainted with all the improved methods of George R., February 25, 1895. Politically, his calling ; he is a good neighbor and citi- our subject is a stanch Democrat, whilst in zen, enjoying the respect and esteem of a religious attachments he is a Presbyterian. host of friends. Mr. L,ufF was joined in marriage February n, 1880, with Ella Grace Raab, a native of

Willow Grove, Pa. , and a daughter of James RANKLIN CARTER is a retired and B. and Hannah (Harding) Raab. James B. much respected citizen of Northamp-

Raab was born April 7, 18 16, near Horsham, ton township, and comes from one of the old

Montgomery County, and died October 6, and prominent pioneer families of Bucks

1 892, aged seventy-six years ; his wife, to County, Pa. He has been engaged in the whom he was married .March 12, 1846, was cultivation of the soil all his active days, on born October 25, 181 8, on the Harding the old Carter homestead, -W^hich came into homestead, near Willow Grove, Montgomery his father's possession in 1830. He was born County, and resided there until her death in Warminster township, this county, De-

October 22, 1886, at the age of sixty-eight cember 14, 1826, and is a son of Mordecai years. Mrs. LfUfi" had one sister, who died and Martha (Walton) Carter, and grandson at the age of six months. Her three brothers, of James and Phoebe (Tomlinson) Carter.

Isaac H., Hiram W., and John J., are all James Carter had two brothers,—William, living and are prosperous members of the who married and settled in Darby, Pa., and communities in which they reside. Isaac H. Joseph, who married and remained in Bucks

Raab, who is a prominent farmer at Wil- County. Their father, William Carter, whose low Grove, Pa., married Emma K. Mann, marriage to Mary Mayhurst is recorded in daughter of George and Anna Bella Mann, the Middletown Friends' Meeting, was in all and has two children, —Frank M. and A. probability the son of William Carter, who

Bell. Hiram W. Raab, a leading farmer of was mayor of Philadelphia in 171 1. James, Warminster township, this county, married son of William and Mary (Hayhurst) Carter, Sallie N. Fleshour, daughter of Jacob and was born and reared in Southampton town- :; ,

372 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

ship, Bucks County. Mary Hayhurst was a They ascended the Delaware River and set- granddaughter of Cuthbert Hayhurst from tled in Byberry in the year 1675. William

Easington, Yorkshire, England, who came Walton married Sarah Howell, April 20, over in the "Welcome" with William Penn, 1689. He was the first preacher of Byberry and was one of the original purchasers. The Friends' Meeting after the Keithian separa-

Carter homestead therefore has been in the tion, and continued the principal, if not the family from that early .date. only one, for the following forty years. He James Carter was better known as Squire had six sons and four daughters. The sixth

Carter ; he learned the trade of a blacksmith son. Job, married Agnes .Walmsley, daughter at Langhorne, Pa., (then known as Eour of Thomas Walmsley, and settled on what is L/ane's End), and followed the same at By- now the home of Nathaniel Richardson in berry, Philadelphia County, Pa. In 1819, he Byberry; he was also a preacher in Byberry gave up his trade and bought a farm some Friends' Meeting. He died April 16, 1784. miles north of Byberry, and spent the re- His family consisted of six sons and two mainder of his life there engaged in agri- daughters, the oldest son, Isaac, being the cultural pursuits. He was widely known one spoken of above as father of Jonathan throughout the county, and in 1 813 was com- Walton. missioned justice of the peace by Governor Mordecai Carter was born in Byberry, Pa. Snyder, officiating in that capacity until he in 1801, and spent his boyhood days in that was compelled to give it up on account of village ; he then spent two years in farming old age. He died August 8, i860. He was in Warminster township, and, in 1830, moved twice united in marriage ; his first wife and to Northampton township, and bought the mother of his children was Phoebe Tomlin- present farm of our subject and his brother son ; and his second was Ann Harding. His James, which farm consists of 1 30 acres of children were as follows : Mordecai ; Tacy highly cultivated land. He cleared the prop-

Emily ; Stephen ; Thomas ; Mary James ; erty and erected good substantial outbuild- and William. ings and a fine house. He resided there until The maternal grandfather of our subject, death claimed him, which was May 14, 1848. Jonathan Walton, son of Isaac and Susanna He was wedded to Martha Walton, who was Walton, was born in 1779; he was married born in Warminster township September 30, December 14, 1803, to Hannah Worthington, 1804, and they became the parents of eight and they reared the following children : Mar- children. Franklin, our subject, is the oldest. tha; Agnes; Emily; Hannah; Isaac; Ben- Aaron T., born January 24, 1829, died June jamin ; and Josiah. He was a well-to-do 9, 1894. James, born November 22, 1830, is farmer of Warminster township, this county. a farmer and his wife is Ruth Tomlinson, of The first of the name of Walton to come Northampton township. I^ydia Ann, born from England to America were four brothers October 6, 1831, died November 30, 1882;

Nathaniel ; Thomas Daniel ; ; and William. she was the wife of Charles M. Osmond, by :,:;

BUCKS COUNTY 373 whom she had the following children upon reaching his manhood, he and his Emmaretta, the wife of Jonathan Clayton; brother James rented the farm for a period of Maurice Elwyn died young; Anna Rebecca, three years, and at the expiration of that who graduated from the Woman's Medical time, they bought the homestead, which

College of Pennsylvania and is practicing was about i860. General farming was their medicine in Philadelphia; Franklin C, a chief occupation, and they both retired in farmer, wedded Louisa Pickering Newbold, 1889; in the year of their retirement, they of Middletown township, and has one child, erected a fine house on a commanding site

Marian N. ; Martha E. graduated from the on the homestead, and it is now occupied by Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania, James Carter. In 1895 our subject purchased

and is practicing in Baltimore, Md. the Cornell farm, which he rents. Mr. ; James J. W. Ross, a farmer, wedded Agnes I^eonard, and Carter is a valued member of his community, they have two children, —James L,. and Leila and is respected by all who have the pleasure Willett. The Osmonds trace their origin of his acquaintance. through their Welsh and English ancestry

back to Edward I, King of England. Re-

becca was the fifth child born to Mr. and Mrs. Carter, the date of her birth being August IIvLIAM HENRY HARRISON FELL- i6, 1834, and she resides with our subject. W'^The family, of which Mr. Fell is Stephen, born October 23, 1836, is farming an honored member, is well known and in Northampton township, and his wife is highly respected in Buckingham township, Lucinda Praul; by her he had two children and the name has been an honored one from of the settlement of the family on Emma Rebecca, who died in infancy ; and the time Jesse Walter, who wedded Minnie Smith, American soil. Our subject is a prominent

and has one ' child, Jesse M. Benton W. and progressive farmer and a worthy repre-

born May 19, 1839, died aged nine years. sentative of the agricultural class of Bucks Emily Anna, the youngest of the family, was County, and is the owner of a valuable tract bom December 21, 1841, and died March 11, of land, consisting of 100 acres, which yields him a large annual profit. He was born in 1 888 ; she was the wife of Francis Tomlin- son of Southampton township, and two chil- Buckingham township, February 7, 1843, dren blessed their union,—Anna Louise, who and is a son of Charles K. and Letitia (Large) married Henry Stackhouse of Falls town- Fell, and grandson of Stacy Fell. ship, and Emma Rebecca, deceased. Our Stacy Fell was the founder of the Fell

subject's father was a strong Democrat, and family in Buckingham township ; he pur- was quite active in local politics. His wife chased our subject's present farm and carried

died January 31, 1884. on general farming until death claimed him. Franklin Carter received a common school He was married, and was the father of a education, and always remained at home family of children, one of whom was Charles :

374 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

K., the father of our subject, who was also outbuildings and barns. Mr. Fell is a promi- born in the above township. He was reared nent and influential citizen of the central

to agricultural pursuits, which occupation he part of Bucks County, and is a leader in his successfully prosecuted all his active days. township, taking a lively and substantial He was one of the prominent men of his interest in all public measures tending to the community, and was honored with many advancement and prosperity of the commu-

township offices, the duties of which he faith- nity at large. fully and honestly discharged. He passed Politically, Mr. Fell is a solid Republican,

from this life December 2, 1887, and his and an active participant in local and politi- death was deeply lamented by a large circle cal matters, and has done much to further of acquaintances. He was united in the the cause of his party in his own county. He bonds of wedlock with I,etitia I^arge, a is now serving his fifteenth year as township native of Buckingham township, and this assessor, which office he fills to the satisfac- union was blessed by the following children tion of the entire community. Fraternally,

Joseph, deceased ; Howard, deceased ; Lizzie, our subject is a member and past officer of deceased, was the wife of George Wolf; Wil- the Knights of the Golden Eagle, Danbury liam Henry Harrison, the subject of this Castle, of Plumstead, Pa.; and the Improved biographical sketch; Harriet, the wife of Order of Red Men, Kittatinny Tribe, of Dan- Wilson M. lyippincott, a prominent farmer of boro. Pa. On the sixteenth day of November,

Buckingham township ; A. Calvin, a resident 1865, Mr. Fell was united in the bonds of

of Philadelphia ; Emma, the wife of Samuel matrimony with Mary Johnson, who was born

B. Hudnit, of Philadelphia, and he is a con- in Plumstead township, this county, October

ductor on the P. & R. R. R. ; and I^etitia, who 22, 1841, and who is a daughter of Gibson was wedded to Valmore M. Hellyer, and they and Sarah D. (Jones) Johnson. Her father,

reside at Centerville, this county. who is now deceased, was a prominent farmer

William Henry Harrison Fell was educated of this county, and her mother is now living in the common schools of his native town- at Doylestown, Pa. Six children were born ship, and at Carversville College, of Carvers- to Mr. and Mrs. Fell, and are as follows:

ville. Pa., and had a thorough practical train- Charles, who died aged twenty-five years, was

ing in agriculture on his father's farm. Upon married to Anna Martendale ; Harry S. resides

leaving school, he returned to the homestead at Ogoutz, Pa. ; lyilly is the wife of Albert where he followed farming, and after his Fell, and they reside in Buckingham town- charge of the same, marriage took and has ship ; Elsie B. is the wife of Albert Mahan, agricultural pursuits since carried on on his of Warringtown township, this county ; Sadie

own account. His present farm consists of J. is bookkeeper for Hellyer' s store in Doyles-

100 acres of rich and productive land, and town, Pa. ; and Rodman was united in mar- our subject has made many improvements riage with Florence Hamilton, and they upon the homestead, such as erecting new reside at Doylestown.

FERDINAND REETZ. BUCKS COUNTY 377

TEFeRDINAND REETZ, who during his panied him, obtained work at the weaving

I Is day was one of the most skilled weav- trade. He at first received the small sum of ers and designers in America, has borne the I5.00 per week for his efforts, but his skill vicissitudes of fortune with great fortitude, was not long in making itself apparent, and and at the time of his retiirement occupied a he accepted an offer to go to Fort Washing- prominent place in the foremost rank of the ton, Montgomery County, Pa. , on a salary of manufacturers of Bucks County, being owner ;^2o.oo per week. During the subsequent and proprietor of a large haircloth manufac- three years, he laid by the sum of ^3,000, turing establishment at Hulmeville, Bucks and made double that amount for his em- County. This establishment, which was ployer. He then moved to Philadelphia and

founded by him in 1884, is now under the in the short space of six months lost the en-

able management of his son, Ewald, although tire earnings of years, through the dishonesty he still retains a half interest in the works. of a commission house in New York to whom His success was not attained without much his goods were sent. He was thoroughly hard labor and many misfortunes, and at disheartened for the time being, but as he

times he was inclined to give up the battle had some material left in the way of scraps, against the tide which opposed him, but by odds. and ends, etc, he conceived the bright unceasing industry and the dogged determi- idea as a last resort, of making these up in a

nation which characterizes his race, he ulti- shawl. Being an artist in his business and mately arrived at the desired goal, which an excellent designer, he made up four shawls enables him to spend his declining -years in of surpassing beauty. This done, another happy retirement. Mr. Reetz was born in perplexing problem confronted him. How

I/Uckenwalde, Prussia, May 7, 1822,- and is a was he to obtain the money necessary for the son of Gotleib and Sophia (Doell) Reetz. trip to New York to display his goods? It

Gotleib Reetz, the father of our subjeclj was solved ' by his generous wife and help- was a soldier, and after leaving the army, ineet who generou^y gave him her watch to lived on his pension. He served in 1813, be pawned. Thus he was enabled to journey

1 8 14, and 18 15, in the wars against Napo- to New York, where his goods were shown leon, and had a good record as a soldier. to a large wholesale and importing house.

Ferdinand Reetz attended the common It was with a heavy heart and slight hope schools, and early in life learned the trade that he made known his business to the man- of a weaver, at which he acquired great agement of this extensive establishment, skill, following that line of work until he which imported shawls of the highest grade came to America. He engaged in business from every country in the world. To his on his own account and became quite wealthy, great amazement, they were astonished at the but in 1 866 lost all he had saved. He then beauty and excellence of the shawls and came to America, landing in New York City, eagerly inquired as to who was the maker. where he and his son Ewald, who accom- Upon being informed that they were the re- 378 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

suit of his handicraft, they immediately twice visited his native town in Germany.

placed an order in his hands, amounting to In 1895, he and his son, and also a son-in-law, |8oo, with a promise of a larger one if that took an extended trip throughout Europe.

proved to their satisfaction. He hurriedly In 1847, he was united in marriage with returned to Philadelphia, bought the neces- Amelia Fudickar, a native of Germany, and sary material, and manufactured the goods to them were born fourteen children, four of

with which he filled the order. He received whom are living at the present time, namely: many larger orders at frequent intervals, and Ewald; lyaura; Lena; and Elizabeth. After as they proved satisfactory to the house, his a residence of nine months in this country, employment was steady. In a period of eight Mr. Reetz sent for his wife and children, months' time, he made the large sum of whom he had left in Germany. Mrs. Reetz $10,000, with which he erected a factory was called to her final rest in 1891. Politi-

of his own in Philadelphia, which he operated cally, he is a Republican, whilst socially, he with success until 1876, when he again is a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellow met with reverses and lost nearly all he Orders. We take pleasure in presenting on had. He then moved to Hulmeville, a preceding page a portrait of Mr. Reetz,

Bucks County, where he engaged in the which adds to the value of the life history manufacture of woolen shawls of every de- given above. scription during the following three years. At the expiration of that period he again went to Philadelphia, where, in 1882, he be- -AMES ANDERSON. One of the pro- gan the manufacture of haircloth, at which gressive and well-to-do agriculturists he continued until his retirement. In 1884, of Bucks County, Pa., and an influen-

he returned to Hulmeville, where the factory tial and highly esteemed citizen, is the gen-

is now located, and there he established one tleman whose biography we write, who is the of the largest plants of the kind in the United proprietor of a well-improved farm consisting

States. The firm of Ferdinand Reetz & Son of 80 acres, which is located in Buckingham bears an unblemished reputation, and the township, near the village of Forest Grove, goods are noted throughout the country. and who is successfully engaged in handling During the past few years Mr. Reetz has been all kinds of agricultural implements. Our living in retirement, enjoying the good re- subject is descended from Scotch-Irish an- sults of a well-spent past. His son, who has cestry, and is a self-made man in every par- shared the many changes of fortune with him, ticular, having acquired by industry and the business manages with an experienced strict integrity the wealth he now possesses. hand, has sustained and the reputation of He is a native of Buckingham township, the the plant established by his father. Our sub- date of his birth being February 2, 1844, and ject has been an extensive traveler through- he is a son of James and Eliza (Lewis) An- out United the States and Europe, and has derson, and grandson of William Anderson. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 379

William Anderson was a native of Scot- vation. He not only carries on agricultural

land, but his father was born and reared in pursuits, but is engaged in handling agricul-

Ireland. William immigrated to America at tural implements and fertilizers, which is in an early age and settled in Buckingham fact his chief business. He carries a large

township, this county, where he took up a stock of implements and has, by his strict at- large tract of land and followed agricultural tention to business and honest ways of deal- pursuits until his death. James Anderson, ing, established a large and paying patron-

the father of our subject, was born and reared age ; he has also won the confidence and re- on his father's farm, and was educated to spect not only of the community in which

agricultural pursuits, which vocation he fol- he resides, but of all those with whom he has

lowed throughout his entire life. Starting had any business transactions. out in life on his own account, he settled on a In 1868, our subject was united in the bonds

farm near the village of Centerville ; after of matrimony with Emma R. Kirk, a native following his vocation there a number of of Buckingham township, and a daughter of years, he moved to Smithfield, this county, John M. and Mary (Veasy) Kirk, both of where he carried on general farming until whom are deceased,—Mr. Kirk was a promi- death claimed him, which was in 1870. He nent farmer of this county. Two children was wedded to Eliza Lewis, a native of New have been born to this happy union, namely:

Jersey, and this union was blessed by a Laura V. ; and Nettie. Religiously, Mr. An- family of seven children, four of whom are derson and his devoted wife are members of

now living, namely : Sally, widow of Robert the Presbyterian Church of Doylestown ; fra- Brown, and she resides in Philadelphia ternally, he is a member of the Shields of James, the subject of this personal history Honor, of Centerville, Pa. Although our subject conscientiously endorses and upholds Ross ; Elizabeth, the wife of Joseph Roberts, and they are residents of Buckingham town- the principles of the Republican party, he and Edward, who has never consented to hold any political ship ; and William, Lewis, are deceased. ofi&ce. Our subject was reared upon his father's farm until eight years old, and received his intellectual training in the district school YRON M. PETERS, M.D., a phy- he started out in life as a clerk, working in a sician who has a thorough under- store at .Forest Grove, remaining there some standing of the intricacies of the

four years ; he then began working on his medical profession, is the only Homeopathic own account, purchasing his present farm, practitioner in the borough of Doylestown, formerly known as the Burns farm; the estate where he is firmly established in a large and consists of 80 acres, upon which he has made lucrative practice. He is a son of Emanuel many improvements and has succeeded in and Margaret A. (Deal) Peters, and was born putting the land under a high state of culti- in Philadelphia, Pa., September 12, 1861, ;:

38o BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Emanuel Peters, the father of our subject, of Philadelphia, and they reared a family of was born in York, York County, Pa., Sep- eight sons and four daughters. Three of the

tember 1 8, 1818, and attended the public sons became prominent physicians, namely

schools. Being an apt and attentive pupil, J. Elwood Peters, M.D., who practiced in he acquired a good English education. At Jenkintown, Montgomery County, for many

the age of twenty-two years, he moved to years ; Dr. William C, who lives in Harris- Philadelphia, which he made his home the burg, where he took the Pitcairn practice

remainder of his life. One year later he and Dr. Byron M., the subject of this bio- became connected with the quarry business, graphical sketch. Mr. Peters folded his hands and, being possessed of untiring energy and in final rest in 1888, at the age of seventy perseverance, built up a large business and years. operated on an extensive scale. Erom this Dr. Byron M. Peters attended the public he drifted into street and railroad contracting, schools of Philadelphia, from which he was and, as he was a man of honesty and trust- graduated in the spring of 1881 ; he subse- worthy in every respect, he gained the most quently pursued higher branches of study implicit confidence of a large circle of friends under a private tutor. Prof. H. R. Harvey, a and business acquaintances. In 1859 he con- well-known instructor of Philadelphia. In structed the North Philadelphia Railroad, 1882 he began the study of medicine, enter- which later was merged into the Central Pas- ing Rush Medical College of Chicago, one of senger Railroad, for which he was to receive the first medical schools of this country, and the sum of $108,000. Upon the completion there took a two years' course. In 1883 he of the road the company was unable to pay returned to Philadelphia and pursued study the stipulated amount, and as a result he under Drs. John Allen and William Gurnsey, purchased stocks and bonds amounting to of Philadelphia. In the fall of that year he $50,000, and finally cancelled the indebted- entered the Hahnemann Medical College of ness for 1150,000. In 1865 the State Legis- Philadelphia and was graduated in 1886. lature repealed the charter of the road, and Immediately thereafter he located at Jenkin- Mr. Peters lost the entire earnings and sav- town, where he practiced with his brother ings of years of industrious labor. After that a few months, after which he took up his sad misfortune he again turned his attention residence in Doylestown, where he has since to the quarry business at which he continued practiced is . He a man honored and respected the remainder of his life, endeavoring to re- by his fellow-citizens, and has a very large gain his lost fortune. He was a stanch Re- practice, numbering the leading citizens of publican and took an active part in local Doylestown as his patients. He is a member politics. Religiously, he was a faithful mem- of the Hahnemann Alumni, and the German- ber of the Presbyterian Church of which he town Medical Society. was a deacon. He was united in the holy Dr. Peters was joined in wedlock with Fan- bonds of matrimony with Margaret A. Deal, nie Livzey, of Doylestown, April 16, 1891, —

BUCKS COUNTY 381

and they are the happy parents of one daugh- erty, owning at the time of his demise four ter, Clara I., who was born in 1892. Politic- farms, the White Bear Hotel at Richboro, ally, he is a Republican, but only takes a and other interests. He was united in wed- passing interest in politics as his practice re- lock with Ruth Slack, of Tinicum township, quires his entire attention. Religiously, he a daughter of Jesse and Amy Slack, and they is a member of the Presbyterian Church. reared the following children : Oliver J., who

Socially, he is a member of the St. Tammany married Jane Gilkyson, is a retired farmer of Castle, No. 163, Knights of the Golden Eagle. Richboro, and has two children, —Minnie, the wife of Rowland Bennett, a farmer of Hartsville, and Carrie, the wife of Joshua

Atkinson, a painter of Richboro ; Franklin rrsi TARRY K. L,UFF, a prominent and elsewhere enterprising farmer of Northampton P., a record of whose life appears

in this volume George R. , who married township, Bucks County, was born ; Elizabeth Wyncoop and has five children, in that township on the old Alfred L,uff William, Ruth, Mabel, Kate, and Rachel homestead, which is now owned by his ; Harry K., the subject of this sketch; Ste- brother, Franklin P. He is a son of Alfred phen, moved out West, married Belle and Ruth (Slack) Luff, and his birth occurred who

K. Scott of Newtown township ; and Sarah, June 12, 1858. Alfred Luff's father, the died in childhood. grandfather of Harry K., was David Luff, of who K. Luff was educated in the com- Tinicum township, who married Sarah Garis, Harry mon schools and attended the Newtown of the same township, and he reared nine the Academy for two years ; he lived on children,—six daughters and three sons. farm until after his marriage in 1883, Alfred Luff was a native of Tinicum town- home when he purchased his present estate of 127 ship, where his father resided and followed acres, known as the Britton Gilkyson place, his trade, that of a tailor. Leaving the par- and has since engaged in farming thereon. ental roof at the age of eighteen years, Alfred a fine, highly-improved farm, and was employed by various persons until 1849, He has carries on general farming, raising hay, when, in connection with his brother Joseph, grains of all kinds, potatoes, and fruits, and he purchased a farm in his native township, has followed the Philadelphia markets for near Richboro. Three years later he pur- some years. He is a man of energy and in- chased his brother's interest, and for twenty- dustry, and has been very successful. He is eight years carried on the occupation of a a good citizen and has many friends through- farmer, after which he moved to another out this district. farm which he owned near Richboro, North- January 10, 1883, Harry K. Luff and Sallie ampton township, where he died September themselves mutual marriage business man Scott took upon 24, 1882. He was an excellent vows. She is a daughter of Joseph and Mary of surpassing judgment, and during his life- (Torbert) Scott, of Upper Makefield township. time accumulated considerable valuable prop- — ;

382 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

who were the parents of the following chil- cated in Rockhill township, Bucks County,

dren : Frank, a farmer in Upper Makefield Pa., where he reared a family of three children,

township, married Amanda Pittinger, and namely: Mary (Frank) ; Susan (Smith); and

has one son, Samuel : Sallie, the wife of our Jacob, the grandfather of our subject. Jacob

subject ; Wilford, whose union with Jennie Dill was born in Rockhill township, where Williams of Mechanicsville has been blessed he was reared and educated. He learned the with four children, lyottie, Mary, Martha, trade of a tanner, which in connection with

and Sarah; George, a creamery man, who farming he followed his entire life. He was married Eva Merrick, and has four children, a public- spirited man and served in various Wilmer, Herbert, Ida and Eva; and Joseph oiBcial capacities. He was a county commis-

and Isabella, twins. Joseph Scott is a hard- sioner for a number of years, and many of

ware dealer in Trenton, N. J., and married the old stones in bridges throughout this Mary Pittinger, by whom he has one daugh- section of the country bear his name. He ter, Harriet. Isabella Scott married Watson was united in matrimonial bonds with Eliza-

Hunter, a farmer of Horsham, Pa. , and they beth Kramm, whose death occurred at the have two children, Cheston and Grace. Po- age of ninety-four years, and they were the

litically, L/VlS is Mr. a firm supporter of the happy parents of ,the following children :

Democratic party, but is not active an worker Phoebe ; Thomas, the father of our subject

in that organization. is His wife a meinber Kate (Rosenberger) ; Maria (Raisner); and of the Presbyterian Church, and he is a mem- Frederick, who died young. ber of Defiance Lodge, No. 335, K. of P., of Thomas Dill was born in Rockhill tpwn- Newtown. ship in 1818, and obtained his intellectual training in the district schools of his native place, and in the high school at Doylestown. R. MAHDON B. DILL, whose en- He farmed during his early manhood, but tire life has been spent in relieving the most of his active business career has the diseases of suffering Ji humanity, been spent in handling nursery stock, buy- is one of the leading physicians of Rockhill ing and selling his own stock. He was a township, and a progressive citizen of Per- man of excellent business qualifications, and kasie. is a son of Thomas He and Sarah was quite successful in his diflFerent business (Button) Dill, and was born in Rockhill ventures. Since leaving the farm he has township, Bucks County, July 24, 1852. lived in retirement in Perkasie and is now traces his ancestry He back to his great- enjoying life at the advanced age of eighty- grandfather, Frederick Dill, who, accom- one years. He was joined in wedlock with panied by his brother, Peter, immigrated to Sarah Button, a daughter of Rev. Jacob But-

America some time in . the seventeenth cen- ton, of Rockhill township, and they have tury. Peter Dill moved to Georgia, but has the following children: Maria (Cope); Susan never since been heard of, and Frederick lo- (Moyer); Dr. Mahlon B. ; Irwin; Elizabeth, ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 383

who died young; Emma, deceased; Hannah, and Frances Ruth. Socially, he is a mem-

deceased ; Ellen N. , deceased ; Sally I. lives ber of the Bucks County Medical Society; at home ; Salena ; and Jacob, deceased. Mrs. Lehigh Valley Medical Society ; Knights of

Dill was born in Rockhill township, and is Pythias ; Brotherhood of the Union at Ha-

now passed seventy-two years of age. Mr. gersville ; Patriotic Order Sons of America

Dill is a firm Democrat and has held various and the MacCalla Lodge, No. 596, F. & A. M. township offices. Dr. Mahlon B. Dill obtained his education in the public schools of Perkasie, and also in a private school of that borough, when, after FERDINAND LONG, a prominent clerking for five years, he took up the study member of the Bucks County Bar, of his chosen profession, medicine, under the and senior member of the well- direction of Dr. H. W. Ritter, of Perkasie. known firm of Ross & Long of Doylestown, He then took a course of lectures in Jefferson occupies a secure position in society as a Medical College at Philadelphia, from which lawyer and solicitor of unusual talents. That he was gra,duated with the class of 1881, he is a man of marked ability and enterprise and immediately entered upon a practice in may be judged from a study of his life, and Shimerville, Lehigh County. He remained the rapid rise he has effected, not without there one year and then moved to Doyles- toil and efforts put forth intelligently, up the town, where he acquired a good paying prac- ladder of influence and financial success. tice, and remained until 1890, in that year Thrown on his own resources at the age of removing to Perkasie, where he has always nine years, with but a small pittance to keep been well known. He has a large patronage, him from actual want, he has had a hard up- including the leading citizens of the borough hill struggle with the obstacles that confront life, that he and township, and is held in high esteem by young men starting in but now look back upon all with whom he comes in contact. He is has so far succeeded, he can deeply interested in the advancement of the his years of hard work with complacency, gave him a interests of the town, and has been identified for they made a man of him, and he with a number of enterprises. He was one of command over himself and others that other way. He is a self- the organizers and is a director of the Per- could obtain in no entitled to the kasie Building & Loan Association, and a made man, and as such is esteem of his fellow director of the Perkasie Improvement Com- highest regard and pany, of which he is secretary. citizens. at Esslingen, Kingdom Dr. Dill, in 1881, was joined in hymeneal Mr. Long was born Germany, September;, 1863, bonds with Ida S. Dirstine, a daughter of ofWurtemberg, and Christianna Henry Dirstine of Philadelphia, and they are his parents being Frederick both natives of that place. the happy parents of the following children : (Wolf) Long, long after our subject was born, in 1863, Gertrude B. ; Nellie I. ; Henry T. ; Irwin R. Not 384 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

his parents, with the four children then born, and study and read, while other boys of his came to the United States, and settled at age spent their evenings at the store of the Pipersville, Bedminster township, this coun- neighborhood. He was thus fairly grounded

ty, where four years later, in 1867, the in the fundamental elements of an education, mother died. Our subject's father, who in when, in the spring of 1882, he entered the his native country was a viniculturist, upon Keystone State Normal School at Kutztown, becoming a resident of this country became Berks County, Pa., where he remained eleven the owner of a small farm in this county, weeks. He then returned home, obtained a upon which he lived and labored until his provisional teacher's certificate, and taught death at the age of forty- eight years. In school two terms in Plumstead township. his religious attachments he was an active After that he once more became a student at I/Utheran. Six children—five sons and one the Normal in the graduating class, but was daughter—were born to him and his wife, as then, in 1884, appointed as clerk under

follows : William, who lives at Gardenville, County Treasurer Jacob Hagerty, and filled

this county, and follows agricultural pur- that position in 1884 and 1885. In the fall suits ; Julius, a farmer of Gardenville ; Fred- of 1885 he was elected teacher of the school erick also lives at Gardenville, engaged in at Plumsteadville, where he had taught but operating a fine farm Ferdinand, the ; J. sub- three days, when he received the appoint- ject of these lines ; John, a shoemaker of ment of prefect in Girard College, Philadel-

Point Pleasant, Bucks County ; and lyouisa, phia. He at once gave up his school, and wife of John Rothfoos of Philadelphia. removed to the new scene of his labors,

J. Ferdinand lyong was brought as an in- where he remained one year, being finally fant to this county, and passed the years of obliged to give up the position because of his early boyhood much as the average lad the general state of his health, which had of his age did. The death of his father, suffered considerably from the confinement. when our subject was nine years old, changed In the fall of 1886, he registered as a law his surroundings about as much as was possi- student in the office of I^ouis H. James, Esq., ble. This bereavement left him to shift for an eminent attorney of Doylestown, and was himself, the only proceeds coming to him admitted to the bar September 13, 1888. As from his father's property being $24, and to soon as he became a barrister, he was taken work he set with a will to fulfill his ambi- into the law office of Ross & James as an tions and be somebody in the busy world. assistant, and remained with the firm until on a until He worked farm 1882, all the the spring of 1889. I'he practical knowl- while improving himself by every means at edge, which thus became his, served him in hand ; he managed to attend four months of good stead in gathering about him clients, school every winter, and as he was naturally when he opened an office of his own in of a studious turn of mind he found it an Quakertown, where he practiced until No- easy matter to stay at home in the evenings vember 18, 1889. On that date he became a

DR. F. HARVEY GRIM. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 387 member of the firm of Ross, James & Long, aided in building the new church edifice, as it became known after his admission. He that was completed last year. He takes a

was put in charge of the branch office the keen interest in politics, and keeps himself firm conducted in Bristol, where he con- well posted on political literature. As one of tinued to transact legal business until May, the speakers of the Democratic party he has

1890, when Mr. James died. The office at assisted in stumping the county several

Bristol was then closed, and the firm of Ross times, and is seen at county, district and & Long carried on legal business in Doyles- state conventions, always as a very inter-

town until the death, in 1894, of the senior ested observer, and usually as a delegate. member of the firm, Hon. George Ross. He has been secretary of the county com- Thereafter our subject continued to practice mittee two or three times. Although very

alone until January i, 1897, when he ad- active in politics, he has never aspired to

mitted as a partner Thomas Ross, son of any official position. Mr. Long is a member Hon. George Ross, reviving the old firm of Doylestown Lodge, No. 245, F. & A. M.

name of Ross & Long. To this firm has Doylestown Chapter, No. 270, R. A. M. ; St. come a large quantity of important litiga- Tammany Castle, No. 173, K. of G. E., of

tion, that entitles it to rank as one of the which he is past chief, and was a charter yery best in the county. Mr. Long was member. admitted to practice in the State Supreme

Court of Pennsylvania in 1892. He is a director of the Bucks County Trust Com- R. F. HARVEY GRIM, a recent

pany, and has been one since 1894. Among , portrait of whom is 'Shown on the corporations, the firm of Ross & Loiig repre- opposite page, is an eminent and sents in Bucks County, the National Transit highly esteemed physician and surgeon of Company, and takes care of the legal busi- Bucks County, Pa., and has been pursuing ness of the boroughs of Sellersvilk and his chosen profession in -the village of Re- Langhorne Manor, Sellersville National vere and immediate vicinity, for the past

Bank, but its most extensive business comes eighteen years. ' The doctor is a deep stu- direct from the people of the county. dent, and has a thorough understanding of

Mr. Long was united in marriage Decem- the intricacies of his calling. He is de- ber 23, 1892, with Lilorah B. Scholl, daugh- scended from one of the oldest and best ter of William H. and Leanna Scholl of known families of Bucks County ; he was Quakertown, Bucks County. Three children born in Nockamixon township, this county,

have blessed this union : Marion B.; Harold September 4, 1859, and is a son of Dr. George

Ross ; and Stanley W. Our subject is a W. Grim, grandson of Adam Grim, great- strong and active member of the German grandson of George Grim, and great-great- Reformed Church of Doylestown, and by his grandson of John Grim. valuable services on the building committee John Grim was born and reared in Prussia, ;,

388 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

and with his wife, whose maiden name was completed his studies in that direction, and Fisher, and twelve children, came to America, was graduated in 1859. In the same year settling at the present site of the village of Dr. George W. Grim located in Ferndale, Pa. Norristown, Montgomery County, Pa., about and followed his profession until 1865, when 1700. Most of the sons of John Grim fol- he became a resident of Revere, where he lowed agricultural pursuits, and some located pursued his chosen profession until death in Montgomery County with their father, claimed him. He was a careful practitioner, while others settled in Berks, I^ehigh, Schuyl- and possessed the confidence and esteem of kill and Bucks Counties. George Grim, the a very large patronage. He was very suc- great-grandfather of our subject, remained in cessful, for he amassed a fortune that was

Montgomery County ; he married Elizabeth entirely the result of his own unabatable in- Favinger, whose parents also came to this dustry and energy. Dr. George W. Grim was country from Prussia. Three children re- a man of generous impulses, strict integrity, sulted from this union, —one daughter and and pure moral character, and a kind and two sons. Adam Grim, our subject's grand- loving husband and father. He died March father, was also a farmer by vocation, and as 7, 1892, aged sixty years, and his death was result his a of marriage with Christiana Dis- deeply felt and deplored by all who knew mant, daughter of Daniel Dismant, who was him, and by all the citizens of the northern of English-Irish extraction, a family of chil- section of the county. He purchased the dren was reared, one of whom was George Reden Miller and David Riesner property the father of W., our subject. and erected a handsome residence and ofiice George W. Grim was reared on his father's his old home was given to our subject. In farm, and was but a lad of fourteen years 1857 Dr. George W. Grim was wedded to when his father was killed on the Reading Elizabeth Koons, a daughter of Frederick Railroad, and George was thrown on his own and Rebecca (Prizer) Koons, and to this resources to battle against the tide of life, union were born the following children: and it was only through his untiring energy Ida, deceased ; F. Harvey, the subject of this and perseverance that he succeeded in making personal history ; Warren, deceased ; George a comfortable living and in attaining a highly Melvin, a physician of Ottsville, this county, respected position in society. He began as married Sally Fetler, who bore him a fam- a moulder, serving an apprenticeship to the ily of three children,—Harold, Helen, and moulder's trade for nine years; he then at- Alma A. Florence ; is the wife of A. H. Big- tended school and taught some during the ley, and they have reared three children, winter later months ; he entered Washington —Grace, Charles and Esther ; I. Webster is Hall, of Trappe, Montgomery County. Hav- a prominent attorney of Doylestown, and his ing decided upon the career of a physician sketch may also be found in this Book of as a means of obtaining a livelihood, he en- Biographies ; Frank S. is a practicing physi- tered Jefferson Medical College, where he cian of New Jersey, and he was wedded to :;

BUCKS COUNTY 389

Mary E. Fabian; Harry E., an attorney Dr. Grim was united in the bonds of matri- of Perkasie, -was united in marriage with mony with Ella Rufe, daughter of Reden and Annie Moyer, and tliey are the parents of one Mary Ann (Hillpot) Rufe ; her father was born

child,^-Anna D. ; Cora B. and Nora E. are at Revere Tavern, Nockamixon township, twins,—the former is the wife of W. H. June 20, 1824. Reden Rufe was a son of

Rufe, of Riegelsville, and the latter is a John and Catherine (Hager) Rufe, and grand-

school teacher ; and James S., a student at son of George Rufe, an early settler of Nock- Lafayette College. The mother of our sub- amixon township, who was a farmer by vo- ject is strong physically and mentally for one cation. George Rufe was the father of the

of her : years ; she largely contributed to the following children George John ; Fred- ;

success of ; her husband, and is a kind and erick ; Samuel and four daughters. John generous neighbor and friend, a true and Rufe was a blacksmith by trade, which faithful wife and devoted mother. occupation he followed with farming. He F. Harvey Grim was intellectually trained was the owner of the Bucks farm and tavern, in the West Chester Normal School and the and resided there until death claimed him, Keystone State Normal School of Kutz- which was at the age of seventy-five years.

town ; he then took up the study of medi- He was married to Catherine Hager, a

cine under his father, and later entered Jef- daughter of Valentine Hager, and this union ferson Medical College, from which institu- was blessed with the following children

tion he was graduated with the class of 188 1. Isaac ; Reden ; Amanda Josiah ; William ; ; Dr. Grim returned to his home and practiced and John H. Reden Rufe owned 90 acres of with his father, acquiring a large and lucra- the homestead, but at an early age learned tive practice alone, but since his father's death the trade of a carpenter, which occupation he

our subject has been called to fill his place. pursued for a period of twenty-five years ; at He was eminently fitted to assume these the expiration of that time he returned to his duties, as his subsequent career goes to prove, farm, where he has been carrying on agri-

for he' is thoroughly reliable and capable cultural pursuits up to the present time.

of handling even the most complicated of Reden has been married twice ; his first wife cases. Dr. Grim still keeps up the reputa- was Sarah Berghstresser, who died at the tion his father had before him, of being a age of thirty-one years. His second matri- physician of superior merit, and of being one monial alliance was with Mary Ann Hillpot,

who thinks that every case upon which he and they' reared four children, namely : Ella,

called to attend is well worth his the wife of our subject is best ; Josiah ; Seymore, efibrts, and no pains are spared to alleviate married Cora Kohl ; and Annie was wedded the sufierer, be he rich or poor. The Doctor to O. Stone. Dr. and Mrs. Grim are the is a friend as well as a physician to his parents of seven children, who are named as patients, and enjoys the friendship and confi- follows ; Edna F. ; Minnie B. ; lyizzie E. dence of many people in his community. George W. ; Clara F. ; Esther ; and Horace. 390 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Dr. Grim and family are devoted members of Buckman Jonathan, born ; December 1 7,

the Reformed Church. He is now serving 1789, married Elizabeth Winder ; Elizabeth,

his seventh year as school director, and dur- born October 15, 1793 ; Benjamin, the father

ing this time he has been secretary of the of our subject ; and Seneca, born November

board ; served four years as United States 21, 1798, who married Ann Briggs.

Pension Examiner; and August 23, 1893, he Benjamin Beans was born January 16,

helped establish the Ferndale Manufacturing 1796, in l/ower Makefield township, and was Company, and our subject has served as presi- reared to agricultural pursuits.' In 1833, he dent since that time. Fraternally, the Doc- purchased the property upon which our sub-

tor is a member of L,odge No. 567, F. & ject now resides and became one of the prom-

A. M. , of Riegelsville past master of the inent farmers of that section. He was widely ;

Knights of the Golden Eagle ; member of known and highly respected, taking an in-

the Junior Order of United American Me- terest in all matters pertaining to the public chanics of Ferndale; and member of the welfare, especially in matters of an educa-

I. O. R. M. of Kintnersville. tional nature. Religiously, he was a faith- Our subject was instrumental in having ful member of the Society of Friends. He the post-office established at Revere, and was was united in marriage with Mary Holcomb, the first postmaster. That was in the year by whom he had four children, namely:

1885, and prior to that time the place was Phoebe Ann, born December 14, 1832, was known as Kintners and Rufe's. united in wedlock with Robert K. Burroughs, a farmer of Upper Makefield township, and they had three children, —Henrietta, deceased,

Benjamin B. , and Ellen J. ; S. Ellen, born fcfREIREDERICK T. BEANS, a prosperous April 19, 183s, and died June 16, 1893, was _L « farmer of Lower Makefield township, the wife of Dr. W. S. Janney of Philadel- and a representative of an old and well- phia, by whom she had two children, Mary known family of Bucks County, was born Anna, and William; Frederick T. our sub-

on the estate he now owns, October 31, 1836, ject; and Caroline M., who was born May 15,

and is a son of Benjamin and Mary (Hol- 1844, and died January 2, 1859. comb) Beans. Our subject's mother was born in Upper grandfather His was Benjamin Beans, Makefield township, December 14, 1799, and whose trade was that of a shoemaker, which was a daughter of Samuel Holcomb. The he followed in connection with farming in latter was a farmer of Upper Makefield town- Ivower Makefield township. He married ship; he formed a marital union with Anna Mary Smith of Wrightstown, Pa., and the A. Van Horn, and they became the parents following issue resulted: Sarah R., born of the following children : Sarah, Mary, Eliza- July 7, 1784; Rachael, born March 10, 1786; beth, John, Hannah, Samuel, Phoebe, Matilda, Charles, born June 1788, married 27, Sarah De Witt C. , and George W. After the death of BUCKS COUNTY 391

his first wife, Mr. Holcomb married Elizabeth Holcomb; Sarah, born November 2, 1807;

Firman, and they had one who died March 5, 1884; daughter, Phoebe. Susanna ; Asaneth,

Frederick T. Beans was educated in the and Phineas, Jr., of Trenton, N. J. J. Hol- public schools of his native township and in comb Walker, who was born at Northamp-

the academy at Norristown, after which he ton, July 30, 1 80s, spent most of his life as worked for his father on the old homestead a farmer in Solebury township, this county. until after his marriage in 1858, when the He married Sarah A. I^ongshore, a daughter latter retired from the active duties of farm of Abraham L,ongshore, who was a native of life. Since then, our subject has had com- Middletown township. Mr. lyongshore mar- plete charge of the estate, and, by successful ried Rhoda Skilton of Solebury township,

management and a free use of the qualities November 3, 1807, and the following chil- endowed by nature, has won his way to a dren were born to them: Sarah A., born

prominent place among the foremost agricul- December 26, Joseph S., born Septem- 1807 ;

turists of the county. He is not only engaged ber 8, 1809; Mary, born August 16,. 181 1, in general farming, but also in dairying, his and died September 27, 1812; Thomas, born

dairy products being especially commend- November 11, 18 12, and died August 19,

able. In addition to the 147 acres of the old 1898 ; Carry, born August 8, 18 14, died

homestead, he owns another farm of acres, March 1888 Joseph Watson, born March 63 24, ;

which is also under a high state of cultiva- 5, 181 8, died November i, 1839; William E.,

tion. He has made many substantial im- born February 22, 1820, died September 11, provements upon both buildings and land of the same year; Samuel C, born Novem-

since assuming the management, and the ber 2, 1822; Elizabeth, born November 28,

general appearance of the place indicates the 1825 ; and Ann, born April 16, 1829. Mr. prosperity of the owner, attained only after and Mrs. Walker were the parents of five

many years of unceasing toil. The success children, namely : Sarah J. , the wife of our with which he has met is pleasing not only subject, who was born December 27, 1836;

to himself, but to his many friends and well- William L,., born May 31, 1837, married wishers throughout the count}-. Elizabeth Hellings, and after her death, De-

April 13, 1858, Mr. Beans was joined in borah Cadwallader,—he is a milk dealer in

Hymen's bonds with Sarah J. Walker, a Newtown; Abraham,. a grocer of Los Ange-

daughter of J. Holcomb and Sarah A. (I^ong- les, Cal., was born November 27, 1836, and shore) Walker, and granddaughter of Phineas married Hannah Witson, by whom he had Walker. The latter, who was a farmer of one son, Oscar,—after his wife's death, he Buckingham and later of Northampton town- remarried, and had three children, Harry, ship, married Sarah Holcomb, by whom he Sarah and Flora; Elizabeth H., born Sep- had the following offspring : Mary, born tember 15, 1840, and died November 22,

June 3, 1800; Robert, born November 16, 1892, was the wife, of Samuel Walton, who

1 801; Margaret, born December 3, 1803; J. lives in Newtown ; and John H., who was born ;

392 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

October 20, 1842, and died in infancy. Upon His great-grandfather on the paternal side

tlie demise of Mr. Walker, his wife formed was George Rufe, a native of Germany, who

a second union with Mahlon K. Taylor. located on what is now Henry Dewise's farm To our subject and his worthy wife six in Nockamixon township, where he followed children have been given, a record of whom the trade of a blacksmith in connection with

follows: Caroline L,., born May 24, 1859 ; B. agricultural pursuits. He lived to reach the

Franklin, born September 13, i860, died in age of sixty-three years, and now lies buried

infancy; Horace H., born October 25, 1863, in the churchyard of the Nockamixon Church. was united in marriage with Jennie M. Scott, He and his wife Sarah reared the following

January 30, 1889, at Sheldon, Iowa, where children : ; Frederick Samuel Jacob ; ; John he is in the employ of Co., they Sigbee & — F. ; George ; Sarah, who married James have one child, Elsie, who was born Decem- Fulmer; Mrs. Michael Worman; and two

ber 10, 1890 ; Eugene L,., a farmer of Wrights- daughters who passed away in early life.

town, was born June 23, 1865, was married John F. Rufe also learned the trade of a to Adeline B. Davis, November 21, 1889, and blacksmith, and engaged in that business at has two children, —Frederick W., born Sep- The Swamp, where Mr. Shelley now resides,

tember 4, 1890, and Raymond S., born June and in 1824 he bought the Bucks estate, con- 10, 1892; Mary L,., born January 27, 1873; sisting of a hotel and farm, where Revere

and Annie E., born February i, 1875. Polit- is located. He also built a blacksmith shop, ically, Mr. Beans is a firm Republican, and and besides farming he conducted a hotel,

was a member of the school board for eigh- which was very well patronized, as it was on teen years, his services in that capacity re- the stage route and the principal road for sulting in much benefit to the educational general teaming. He also erected a new set interests of the district. In religious belief, of buildings on the property now owned by he is a Friend. his son, Readden Rufe, and upon his death left a fine estate to be divided among the members of his family. He was united in ^OSIAH H. RUFE, who is the well- matrimonial bonds with Catherine Hager, proprietor known of the Ferndale a daughter of Valentine Hager ; by her he Hotel, an establishment conducted had the following issue : Isaac ; Readden

on the most improved plans, and one which Amanda Josiah ; ; ; William and John H. stands high in public favor, is also one of Mrs. Rufe survived her husband some years, the most progressive and highly respected dying at the age of eighty-eight. citizens of Ferndale, Nockamixon township, Readden Rufe, the father of the subject of

Bucks County, Pa. He was born on Novem- this biographical record, was born June 20, ber 9, 1862, on the old homestead at Revere, 1824, in the Revere Hotel, and from boyhood this township, and is a son of Readden and has followed farming, although for twenty- Mary Ann (Hillpot) Rufe. five years he also worked at the carpenter's BUCKS COUNTY 393

trade. He is a man of good business quali- formed a second alliance with Emma Trouts, fications, and lias been quite successful in a daughter of Henry Trouts of Nockamixon

his business affairs. He was joined in wed- township, and they have one daughter, Min-

lock with Sarah Berghstresser, a daughter nie Mabel. Politically, he is a stanch sup- of George Berghstresser, and her sad death porter of the Democratic party, and has

occurred at the early age of thirty-one years. served in an official capacity in many of the

In 1856 he formed a second alliance with township offices. In religious faith and fel-

Mary Ann Hillpot, who was born in 1835, lowship, he and his wife are faithful mem- and was a daughter of Peter Hillpot. This bers of the lyUtheran Church. union resulted in the birth of the following

children : Ella, the wife of Dr. F. H. Grim,

a record of whose life appears elsewhere in -OHN WIIvIvIAM FAHR, M.D. Tlie

this book Josiah H. ; Seymore, who married Fahr family, of which the subject of ;

Cora Kohl ; and Annie C., whose union with these lines is a well-known member, Oscar Stone was blessed with two children, has since the early colonial days been closely Walter and a daughter. associated with the progress and improvement

Josiah H. Rufe attended the Rufe school of Bucks County. Our subject is the owner of Revere, after which he learned the trade of the Riverview Farm, one of the finest farms

of a stone cutter and followed it for a period along the beautiful Delaware River, located of four years. At the expiration of that time in Tinicum township, this county, and con- he accepted a position as salesman with the sisting of 200 acres of highly improved land. Ferndale Shoe Manufacturing Company of This worthy and esteemed gentleman was Ferndale, and was identified with that com- born and reared in Nockamixon township,

pany in different capacities until 1 897, when Bucks County, his birth being in 1866, and he he succeeded George Bailey as proprietor of is a son of William and Esther (Cole) Fahr,

the Ferndale Hotel. It is a commodious, grandson of John Jesse and Sarah (Hawk) well-kept house of 20 rooms, with every Fahr, and great-grandson of Jesse Fahr. possible convenience arranged for the com- Jesse Fahr was of German extraction, but

fort of guests. Mr. Rufe is of a genial and resided in the New England States, where he good-natured disposition, and has won his was a prosperous farmer before the Revolu-

way into the good-will of the traveling pub- tionary War ; he was among the first to

lic. Having had considerable experience shoulder arms in that mighty struggle, and upon the road, he has a thorough under- was among the last to lay them down after

standing of the wants of that body of people. seven years upon the battle field. After inde- He formed a marital union with Flora B. pendence had been gained, Jesse settled on a Kiefer, a daughter of Joseph Kiefer, by whom farm near the city of Philadelphia, but soon he had one daughter who died at an early afterwards moved to Nockamixon township, age. After the demise of his wife, Mr. Rufe where he took up a large tract of land, which ;

394 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

now comprises several farms. He erected a John William Fahr possesses a fine edu- nide, but substantial log house, which was cation, which he received in the common

one of the first log houses built in the town- schools and at Gettysburg College; having

it had those upon the career of a physician as a ship ; had, as most log houses decided days, a large, old fashioned fireplace and one means of obtaining a livelihood, he entered

little window on the side. Jesse Fahr was Jefferson Medical College, from which insti- married and was the father of a family of tution he was graduated in 1887. He imme- children, one of whom was John Jesse, the diately began his professional career in the

grandfather of our subject, who was born and village of Milford, N. J., and vicinity, where reared on the homestead in Nockamixon he not only soon established a reputation as township. In connection with carrying on being one of the best physicians in his com- agricultural pursuits, he followed boating and munity, but built up a large and lucrative rafting on the Delaware River until he at- practice. He erected a fine home in Milford, tained an advanced age. He was joined in but in 1896 he sold the place and purchased marriage with Sarah Hawk, who died in 1896, the Patrick McGee estate, better known as at the ripe old age of one hundred and four the Riverview Farm, which comprises 200 years, and who now lies buried in the Upper acres of land, and which cannot be excelled

Tinicum burial grounds. She was the mother by any farm along the Delaware River. It

of the following children : Jacob ; Samuel has a handsome mansion, which is surrounded

James ; Ellen ; Ann Jennie ; and William. by a large and well-kept this ; lawn ; property, William Fahr, the father of our subject, was during the colonial days, was known as the born and reared on the homestead in Nocka- Erwin estate, and in front of the beautiful mixon township, and was trained to mercan- mansion may be seen the dock timber, where

tile pursuits ; he followed that vocation but a Washington had planned to take his army few years, when he passed from this life at the across the Delaware River, but was forced age of twenty-two years, the cause of-his death to cross the river further down the stream. being typhoid fever. He chose Esther Cole Arthur Erwin, who built the docks for Wash- as his in life companion ; she was a daughter ington's army to cross the river, was murdered of William and Dorothy Cole, and as result a on the night of July 9, 1 791, by an English of this marriage one son was born, Wil- John spy ; he was buried in the burial grounds on

liam, the subject of this narrative. Our sub- the farm, around which burial grounds is a ject's mother, after the death of her husband, heavy brick wall, the only access to the yard was wedded to William Wolfinger, a mason being through a little iron gate. Dr. Fahr and builder, residing at Riegelsville, Pa., and has made many improvements upon the they are the parents of four children, namely : property since taking possession of it, and

Eluier ; S. Annie ; Thomas ; and Allen W. is now enjoying all the comforts of life. He Our subject's mother entered the world of rest is devoting much time to fruit culture, and in 1896, at the age of fifty-one years. his collection of various domestic and foreign

;>?»:^rr<:w?»»®i?*?«Sf;gs;^'f*^'S*?s^:???^^^ > SAMUEL WEIRBACH. BUCKS COUNTY 397

varieties is one of the largest and most com- Bucks County, and his life vocation was that plete in this section of the country ; he has of a farmer ; as a result of his marriage with fine young 6rchards of all kinds of fruits, that Susan Croman, the following children were flourish in the temperate zone. His farm is born to them : Samuel John Joseph ; Han- ; ; in many respects the most complete farm in nah ; and several others who died in their in- the state of Pennsylvania. He has a great fancy. Samuel Weirbach, the father of our fondness for Jersey cattle and fine stock of all subject, was born in Richland township

kinds. His poultry yards contain all species March 27, 18 14. His father died while he of fowls—from swans and foreign geese and was a mere lad, and at the early age of ducks down to the old, reliable hen. The eight years he was bound out to John Narran- library of our subject is one of the most gand, a farmer of Richland township, with complete in the vicinity, containing a large whom he remained until he attained the age and select lot of books and magazines. Dr. of eighteen years. He then served an ap- Fahr is a highly esteemed resident of Tini- prenticeship of two years at the shoeinaking cum township, and commands the respect and trade with l/cwis Berger, and continued to good-will of a large circle of acquaintances. follow that occupation as a journeyman for a Dr. Fahr was wedded to Cora Worman, period of four E. years ; being dissatisfied with only daughter of Henry and Mary (Bowes) his trade, he went to work for Charles Him- Worman, distinguished citizens of Easton, melwright, on the farm where he resided Pa., and to this union was born one child, a until his death, and continued to remain in boy, which died in its infancy. Religiously^ his employ twenty-five years, or to the time Mr. and Mrs. Fahr are members of the Pres- of his employer's death, which was in 1861.

byterian Church politically, subject is ; our a Charles Himmelwright was an old bachelor, solid Republican. and owned .the farm which was owned by our

subject's father ; upon the farm was a hand-

some two-story . mansion built by Joseph Himmelwright, which is still standing, and 'OSEPH WEIRBACH, one of Rich- in the best of condition. The rooms are land township's honored and influen- large and spacious, finished with hard wood,

tial farmers, who has successfuly en- which is beautifully carved by hand, and con- gaged in agricultural work all his life, and tains several old-style fire-places, and the who is descended from one of the pioneer mansion is sirrrounded by a beautiful and settlers of Bucks County, was born on his well-kept lawn, which is shaded and orna- present farm June 2, 1846, and is a son of mented with mammoth palmetto, cedar and

Samuel and Hannah (Penrose) Weirbach, and basswood trees. The first house that stood grandson of Peter and Susan (Croman) Weir- on the farm was situated across the little bach. creek that runs through the farm, which site Peter Weirbach was born and reared in is now marked by two large pear trees and a ; ;

398 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

few broken bricks. In 1843 Samuel Weirbach served as auditor two yedrs, and has been was married to Hannah Penrose, who was born delegated to county conventions two years

October 15, 18 13, and died in 1868; they were religiously, he and his family are all devoted

the parents of the following children : Charles members of the Reformed Church.

P., born July 20, 1844, is an iron worker of A portrait of Samuel Weirbach appears on Lebanon, Pa., and was wedded to Mary Ann a preceding page in connection with the Frey the subject of this narra'tive above narrative. ; Joseph, and Samuel, born March 20, 1849, who married Carrie Rapp, a daughter of Charles A. Rapp, of Quakertown, and two children EV. EDWARD MILLER JEF- blessed their — home ^William H. and James FERYS, B.A., B.D., rector of St., A. Mr. Weirbach also owned the Samuel Paul's Church (Episcopal), Doyles-

Berger farm, which is now being farmed by town, Bucks County, Pa., id the second son his son Samuel. Mr. Weirbach passed from of Charles P. B. Jefferys, Esq., of Philadel- this life October 3, 1898, surrounded by many phia, a retired civil engineer, and of his wife, friends warm of the present and the dear Elizabeth (Miller) Jeflferys. He was born in

memories of the past ; his share of the work Philadelphia May 4, 1865. of this busy world was performed carefully Rev. Mr. Jefferys is of English, Scotch and and well to the best of his ability, and the American descent. His paternal grandfather, success which attended his efforts was deserv- the Hon. Peter Jeflferys, a lieiitenant-colonel ing, and came to him as a natural result of in the English Army, was botn in the island his methods of life. of Nevis, British West Indies, where he was Joseph Weirbach acquired a liberal educa- an extensive planter and landed proprietor. tion in the district schools of his native town- Peter Jefferys studied at the University of ship, and spent his boyhood days working Edinburgh, where he was graduated a phy- on the farm, and now has charge of the sician, returning to the West Indies at the

homestead ; he is one of the progressive and completion of his professional studies. He enterprising farmers of Richland township, was Lieutenant-Governor of the island ; his and is liighly esteemed by his fellow-country- official title being, " President of the Council men. In 1869 our subject was united in the of Nevis." Colonel Jefferys had four sons, bonds of matrimony with Mary Stump, a of whom two are living. One of these, the daughter of Enos and Elizabeth (Lewis) father of the subject of this sketch, was born Stump, of Rockhill township, and this union in 1831 at Hal in Belgium. Charles P. B. has been blessed by the birth of three chil- Jefferys pursued his early studies in Antwerp, dren, namely : Annie May, who died in later entering the University of Li^ge where childhood days; Harvey E., born April 13, he took the course in Mining Engineering, 1881 and ; Howard H., born July 5, 1884. at the same time taking a liberal course in Mr. Weirbach is a Republican, and has the Classics. At the early age of eighteen BUCKS COUNTY 399

of Internal years he came to America, where his father Miller, Jr. , who was Commissioner had many friends and considerable property. Revenue from 1798 to 1803, during parts After some time spent in travel, Charles P. B. of the administrations of John Adams and Jefferys entered upon his professional career Thomas Jefferson. The office which Mr.

as civil engineer on the Pennsylvania Rail- William Miller held is now that of the Sec- road, where he held several positions in the retary of the Interior. William Miller and engineer corps under Mr. John Edgar Thom- his son Edward were members of the First son, at that time chief engineer of the road. Troop, Philadelphia City Cavalry. Mr. Jefferys also built the Sand-patch tunnel Rev. Edward M. Jefferys has a brother in brother on the line of the Pittsburg & Connellsville the ministry of the Church ; another

Railroad, which was one of the important is a physician ; and a third is administering railroad constructions of that period. a family estate in the West. In 1857 he became connected with the Rev. Edward Miller Jefferys pursued his Missouri Pacific Railroad which he located preparatory studies at Rugby Academy, Phil- from the Laraine River west, as principal as- adelphia. He entered the University of Penn- sistant engineer. His chief was the distin- sylvania in 1882 and graduated therefrom in

guished civil engineer, Edward Miller, who 1886, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Arts. had been successively chief engineer of the He entered the Berkeley Divinity School, Catawissa Railroad, the Morris & Essex Canal, Middletown, Conn., in the autumn of the the Sunbury & Erie Railroad, the New York same year. He completed his theological & Erie Railroad and the Schuylkill Naviga- studies in 1889 and was ordained deacon by tion Co. Mr. Miller was associate engineer the Right Reverend Bishop Williams, in the of the Western Division of the Pennsylvania Church of The Holy Trinity, Middletown,

Central Railroad in 1847; chief engineer of Conn. ; being advanced to the priesthood the that railroad in 1850; chief engineer of the following year in the same church by Bishop North Pennsylvania Railroad in 1853, and Williams. During his diaconate Mr. Jefferys president of the same in 1856; and in 1856, was assistant at St. Peter's Church, Philadel- as we have already stated, chief engineer of phia. In June, 1890, his alma mater, the the Missouri Pacific. In 1857 Charles P. B. University of Pennsylvania, conferred upon Jefferys married his chief's eldest daughter, him the degree of Bachelor of Divinity. After Miss Elizabeth Miller, a member of one of the one year at St. Peter's, he went to Detroit to oldest and best families in Philadelphia, and be assistant in St. John's Parish in that city. went abroad for a time. There were born to He served at St. John's until 1893, being for them eight children, five sons and three one year in sole charge of that very large daughters, six of whom are now living. parish during a change of rectors. In the

Two of the daughters were born in Europe. spring of 1 894, Mr. Jefferys traveled in the Edward Miller, grandfather of the subject of East, visiting Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and, the present sketch, was a son of William more especially, the Holy Land. 40O BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Upon his return to America Mr. JeiFerys date prior to the Revolutionary War. This was called to St. Paul's Church, Doylestown, congregation was organized in 1775 ; half Pa., where he is now the rector. He married an acre of land was purchased of a Mr. Miss Amy Elizabeth Faulconer, of Detroit, Shoup, and a log church was erected, in Mich., April 24, 1895. Two children have which meetings were held many years, and

been born to him : Robert Faulconer ; and was the only house of worship in Nocka- Charles P. B., the third of that name. mixon township at that time. Besides this

Mr. Jefferys has had a successful and useful little, old picturesque chapel stood a school career at St. Paul's, and his work in Doyles- house, which was located near where the town has been abundantly blessed. The present church is situated. In 1 797, a small church edifice has been enlarged during his strip of land adjoining the churchyard was rectorate, by extending and deepening the purchased of Lawrence Pearson, which was chancel and by building a choir. Mr. Jefferys used as the church burial ground, in which is an earnest and vigorous preacher and a many generations of the old and prominent zealous and faithful parish priest. He has families of this vicinity lie buried. In 1830, taken a lively interest in the moral welfare the Lutheran and Reformed congregations of the community outside his parish, as well joined, and they erected a new and larger as ministering to the spiritual needs of his brick church ; the old log church was sold to congregation. He recently led in a move- Jacob Sassaman for the sum of |ioo, and the ment to establish a library and reading-room timber and boards of this old church, which for the youth of the town, and the result has were finely engraved and stained, are now in been success beyond all expectations. the barns of Jacob F. Sassaman. In 1875, the brick church was taken down and the

present handsome edifice erected in its stead.

Rev. Casper Wack, the founder of St. ^EV. B. CHARI.es weaver, an Luke's Reformed congregation, of Nocka- earnest and conscientious laborer in mixon township, upon the completion of the *^ the vineyard of the Master, is held log edifice, was placed in charge of the in dear esteem by not only the members of church, and held that position until 1787, the congregation of St. I^uke's Reformed when he was succeeded by Rev. Frederick Church of Nockamixon township, over whom William VonDerSloot; in 1792, John Mann he presides, but by the citizens of the com- became pastor of the church, and he in turn munity as well. Rev. Mr. Weaver is also gave way to Rev. Hoffmeyer in 1796; and pastor of the Solomon Reformed Church, he was succeeded by Jacob William Dechant Bedminster township. in 1808, who was succeeded in order by Sam- St. Luke's Reformed Church is the oldest uel Stahr, in 1811 ; W. T. Gerhart, in 1844; religious society of the northern section of D. Rothrock, in May, 1859; and then by the county, and its history goes back to a Charles B. Weaver, the subject of this sketch, ;

BUCKS COUNTY 401

in 1893. Rev. Mr. Weaver has greatly in- with the class of 1889. He immediately com- creased the membership of the church, the menced his service for God and humanity in

church now having an enrollment of 375 his first field of labor, at Sciota, Monroe

members ; since the founding of the church County, Pa., where he remained three years

2,514 members have been enrolled. Our in 1893, Rev. Mr. Weaver took charge of

subject also served six years in the pulpit at his present pastorate; he is a very pleasant Keller's Church, and was succeeded by Rev. speaker and commands the closest of atten-

D. Rothrock. tion, and is a minister highly esteemed and Rev. Charles B. Weaver was born in Hel- much beloved by his congregation.

lertown, Pa., April 18, 1863, and is a son of Rev. C. B. Weaver was united in marriage Tobias S. and Louisa (Hess) Weaver, grand- with Mary Person, a daughter of Isaac and son of Tobias and Annie (Schimef) Weaver, Elizabeth Person, of South Bethlehem, Pa., and great-grandson of George Adam Weaver. and the following children have blessed their

Tobias Weaver, the grandfather of our sub- happy home : Margaret, born November 19, ject, was a farmer all his life and resided 1890, died May 10, 1892; Harriet, born July near the village of Hellertown, Pa. Tobias II, 1892; George Person, born July 11, 1893;

S. Weaver, the father of our subject, was also Elizabeth, born July 30, 1894; Martha, born

born in Hellertown, and was reared to agri- January 24, 1896; and Helen, born August 2, cultural pursuits, which continued to be his 1898. Rev. Mr. Weaver resides in a fine

vocation through life. Mr. Weaver was a house, which he erected in 1895, and has very prominent man of his community, and one of the finest and most complete libraries held many township oiEces. Our subject's in the village of Ferndale. mother was Louisa Hess, a daughter of Joseph Hess, and she was the mother of the

following children: Emma, born April 17,

1858, died aged seventeen years; Cyrus O., •OHN G. RANDALL, who is engaged

born January 5, i860, was married to Emma in dealing in real estate, is also Wagoner, and they have reared four children, business manager of the Doylestown

Hattie, Annie, Stella, and Katie ; and Charles Democrat. He is a son of Isaac and Jane B., whose name heads this sketch. (Van Zant) Randall, and was born in Attle- Rev. Charles B. Weaver, upon the comple- boro, now Langhorne, Bucks County, De- tion of his education in the common schools, cember 10, 1837. entered Hellertown Collegiate Institute, and The ancestors, on the paternal side of the later Franklin and Marshall College, from house, as the name Randall indicates, were which institution he was graduated in 1884. English, but through his mother our subject He then began studying and fitting himself is of Holland Dutch descent. His grand- for the ministry ; taking a theological course father was Jonathan Randall, who lived and at Lancaster Seminary, he was graduated died in the southern section of Bucks County. ;

402 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Isaac Randall was born in Bensalem town- building, then just erected. They carried a ship, and early in life at Newtown learned the large line of clothing, shoes, wall paper, and trade of a stonemason, which he followed for jewelry, and conducted the business with many years. He located at I/anghorne, and, good results for two years, when our subject being a man of industry and energy, became disposed of his interest, and became clerk in the leading contractor in that section of the the office of the recorder of deeds. He was county. He also engaged in farming for a soon after appointed one of two commissioners short time. He was united in marriage with to index the county records, the new combi- Jane Van Zant, daughter of Garret Van Zant, nation system having been adopted. He and they became the parents of six children, spent two years at that work. He then en- all of whom were boys, namely: Garret V-, of gaged in the mercantile business again, as a

Langhorne, Bucks County ; Andrew V., a member of the firm of Randall & Etteuger resident of Ocheyedeu, Iowa G., the until sold his interest, after which ; John he out he gentleman whose name heads these lines accepted a position as business manager of and three others who died before reaching the Doylestown Democrat^ then owned and adult age. edited by Gen. W. W. H. Davis. He served John G. Randall attended the public in that capacity for some five years in a very schools of Langhorne and lived at home until satisfactory manner, but resigned to accept he was twelve years of age. His father the appointment of postmaster of Doyles-

having died when he was ten years old, he town, serving during Cleveland's first ad- went to live upon the farm of Henry Hicks, ministration. In 1890, the Doylestown Pub- a Quaker fiiend of the family, and continued lishing Company was organized, in which he in school until he was sixteen. He then was the leading spirit, and became the busi- learned the trade of a shoe manufacturer, ness manager. The company purchased the after which he followed it in Langhorne until plant of the Doylestown Democrat and con-

1 869, when he was elected by the Democratic tinued to publish it under that name. In party as clerk of the Courts of Quarter Ses- 1895, Mr. Randall resigned his position as sion and Oyer and Terminer, Bucks County. manager, and entered the real estate business, Upon the expiration of his term in 1873, he in which he is still engaged. In 1 898, he engaged in merchandizing with Silas L,. At- was reappointed business manager of the kinson in Doylestown, the firm being Ran- Doylestown Democrat^ and, between the news- dall & Atkinson. In that year, he was also paper and real estate business, every minute

appointed deputy clerk of the courts named of his time is occupied. He is a self-made above, and served in that capacity for six man of many excellent qualities, and has the years. In Mr. Randall 1874, purchased his respect and esteem of all with whom he is partner's interest in the business, and later acquainted.

formed a partnership with George E. Donald- Mr. Randall is well known as a local poli- son, removing the stock to the L,enape Hall tical writer, and as an active member of the BUCKS COUNTY 403

; in Democratic party ; he has frequently served an agriculturist he was also interested as delegate to county, district, and state con- the cement and lime business many years. ventions, and as a member of the borough He retired from the active duties of life at council, and was clerk for that body several the age of eighty years, and died at Somer- years. In the spring, of 1 898, he was re- ville, N. J., at the age of ninety-one. He elected to the Doylestown borough council, was a prominent man of his day and was and has served in various other capacities. active in the political affairs of his commun-

Socially, he is a member of Bristol Lodge,, No. ity, being a firm supporter of the Democratic

25, F. & A. M., one of ths oldest lodges in party. Religiously, he was a member of the the state of Pennsylvania : and the Orionto Society of Friends. He was united in the

I/odge, No 177, 1. O. O. F., of Langhorne. In bonds of wedlock with Ann Nickleson of 1858, he was united in the holy bonds of Yardley, Pa., and theybecame the parents of matrimony with Elizabeth S. Boyce, a wo- a family of seven children, as follows : Maria, man of many lovable traits of character. married to William Van Marter, both of

whom are now deceased ; Mercy, the wife of Jacob S. Phillips, a retired grain dealer of

Somerville, N. J. ; Susanna, the wife of David ~CdwaIDWARD N. ELY is a prosperous and W. Small, ex-judge and a prominent citizen

J well-to-do agriculturist of Bucks of Oconoraowoc, Wis. ; Mary, the wife of County, Pa., where he^has resided the greater Nathan Worthington of Solebury township,

portion of his^life ; since 1862, he has resided who runs a commission wagon to the mar- on his present homestead in Lower Makefield kets of Philadelphia ; Edward N., the sub-

township ' near the borough of Yardley, and ject of these lines; Elias E., deceased, who is recognized as one of the thrifty and ener- was a prominent hardware merchant of Ocon- getic farmers of Lower Makefield township. omowoc, Wis., married Ella Babcock, also He was born at New Hope, this county, No- deceased; and Frank, who lives at Pewau- vember 10, 1832, and is a son of Joseph and kee, Wis. Ann (Nickleson) Ely. Edward N. Ely obtained his intellectual The [^maternal grandfather of our subject training in the public schools of his native was McCormick Nickleson, a native of Ire- township, and at Stroudsburg Academy. land, and he was the first of his family to After his marriage, in 1862, he came to his

locate in this country ; he followed teaming present place ; he was engaged in the lumber before the railroads were built, but after business at New Hope for two years with that, he took to farming, which he continued Samuel Soliday, and then, in 1857, went the rest of his active days. His wife was a West to Wisconsin and settled in Oconomo- Miss Bailey of Lower Makefield township. woc, where he bought grain for Rockwall,

Joseph Ely was born at New Hope, where Luck & Co., for two years ; he then went he always resided, engaged in the pursuits of into the lumber business at New Hope, but ;

404 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

on April 6, 1862, he turned his attention to Howell, the father of Mrs. Ely, who was a

farming and has since resided upon his pres- farmer, died August 2, 1864, and her mother

1 ent homestead, which consists of 1 5 acres resides with our subject and is aged eighty- of highly tilled land. October 20, 1882, his eight years. She is the mother of seven

barn was destroyed by fire, and it was rebuilt children, namely : Mary E. , the wife of our

immediately, but, on the same date in 1895, subject; Ella A., who died young; Martha

the barn was again destroyed by fire, and our A. was united in marriage with Joshua Maris,

subject sustained a heavy loss, having lost now deceased, and she lives in Trenton, N. J.

nearly all his cattle, grain aud farming im- Emma ; Carrie, the wife of Samuel W. Throp

plements. In 1890, his present beautiful of Trenton, N. J. ; Wilhelmina, who died

home was completed. Mr. Ely is well young ; and H. Amelia. Three children known throughout the county, as a worthy have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Ely, namely:

and influential citizen, and commands the Howell, born December 4, 1862, died July

respect of a host of friends. Politically, he 29, 1865 ; Carrie H. ; and Harriet S. is a strong Democrat and takes an active

interest in local politics. Socially, he is a

member of Doylestown Lodge, No. 245, F. & A. M., and the A. O. U. W. ; religiously, he R. S. H. WILSON, a leading physi- is an attendant of the Episcopal Church, of cian of the village of Mechanics- which his wife is a member. M ville, Buckingham township, is a Mr. Ely was married February 26, 1 862, to representative of one of the oldest and most Mary E. Howell of Lower Makefield town- distinguished families of the Keystone State. ship, and a daughter of David Y. Howell. The lives of its members are indissolubly His parents were Timothy and Rebecca linked with the early history of Bucks County, Howell, the first of the family to locate in with whose progress they were most promi- Bucks County, he having purchased 140 nently identified. This prominent physician

acres of land in 1 8 10. They were the parents was born in Mechanicsville December 23,

of the following children : Sarah, who was 1854, and he is a son of Samuel and Maria twice married, her first husband being a Mr. (Webster) Wilson. Our subject can trace Fenton, and her second, Lewis Moore ; Susan his ancestral history back to the year 1721, was also twice wedded, her first husband when the family was first founded in this being Hogeland, John and her second, John county; his ancestors were among those Temple, all of whom are deceased ; Mary undaunted pioneers who braved the hard- died single; Martha, deceased, was married ships and dangers of frontier life to make to Samuel Slack, who is also now deceased a home ; in Bucks County. David Y., the father of our subject's wife Samuel Wilson, the father of our subject, married Harriet E. Sandoz ; and John, who was born and reared in Mechanicsville, and married Elizabeth Richardson. David Y. was educated to agricultural pursuits, which

WALLACE DUNGAN. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 407

vocation he followed many years ; he after- marked success ; in 1 896 he took up his wards started The Samuel Wilson Company, practice in his native village, where he has

seed growers and florists. This Company is achieved a well-earned reputation as a skillful

still in existence and is well known throtigh- and intelligent physician, having already es- out every state in the Union. Mr. Wilson tablished a large and lucrative practice. Dr.

continued that line of business until his Wilson is popular with -his fellow-physicians

death, May 23, 1897. He was widely known of the county, and is recogflized as one of the

throughout Bucks County, was greatly re-~ leading and enterprising citizens of his native

spected for his many sterling qualities, and village. He is a member of the Bucks County

his death was deeply lamented by a Istrge cir- Medical Society. \ Politically, the Doctor is a

cle of acquaintances. He was joined in the strong Republican; and -fraternally, he is a bonds of matrimony with Maria Webster, member of the Shields of Honor of Bucking- and they became the parents of" a family of ham.

three children, namely : Dr. S. H., the subject

of this brief notice ; William E., born Octo-

ber 23, 1856, resides on the old- Wilson homestead in Buckingham township ;' and Eliza- ALLACE DUNGAN. The gentle- beth, born October 11, 1859, who resides on man whose name heads this brief

the homestead with her brother. The mother notice, andwho is represented with a portrait

of our subject passed from this life January appearing on the ^opposite page, is truly one 24, 1895. of the self-made inen of Bucks County, and

Dr. S. H. Wilson received bis primary edu-^ is t)ne of the enterprising- and energetic busi- cation at the common schools of his native ness men of Dbylestown, and a prominent

village, which was later supplemented by a and prosperous citizen. He is successfully course in the thorough Doylestowa'Academy engaged in : the maniifactute of phosphate having decided upon: a itnedical' career, he and tallow, and' also deals- in hides ; he is a entered Jefferson Medical College. of Philadel- son of Isaac and RebfcccaK(Booz) Dungan, phia, where he pursued his studies for three and: was born in Doylesto.wn township, near

years and was graduated frofnthat in^titutron the Aimshouseof Biicks County, July 8, 1845. with the class of 1 88 1. His first field of ope-, Our subject's, grandfather was Jesse Dun- ration was Carversville, Pa. , and vicinity, gan, who was born near Frankford, Phila- whither he went immediately after gradua- delphia County, Pa., but the most of his tion, and he remained in that village some active career was spent in Bucks County, five years, during which time he established where he pursued the vocation of an agricul- quite a reputation as a physician ; his next turist. He died in Northampton township, move was to Centerville, where he bought out this county, in 1895, at the advanced age of Dr. Fell, and for ten years pursued his chosen ninety-one years. He was a stanch Demo- calling in that village and vicinity with crat in politics, firm and unchangeable in his ; ;

4o8 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

belief in the principles of his chosen party. years. He lived with his parents until he He was an attendant of the Presbyterian attained his majority, during which time he

Church ; he was an honest and industrious attended the district schools in the township citizen and was held in high esteem by his in which he resided, and at the age of twen- fellow-countrymen. His wife was Adreann ty-two years he began farming on his own Cornell, and they were the parents of four account, following that occupation five years. sons and four daughters. In 1873, our subject embarked in the hide Isaac Dungan, the father of our subject, and tallow business and erected a factory was born on his father's farm in Bucks where Swartley's mill is located in Doyles-

County, and spent nearly all his life in town. Our subject attended strictly to busi- Northampton and Southampton townships, ness, and in time began to build i:p a pros-

dying in the latter township in 1887 at the perous trade ; he is a man of good financial age of sixty-five years. He was reared to judgment, and his integrity and fair deal- agricultural pursuits, and chose the vocation ings are without question. June 29, 1880, of a farmer as his life's work. Politically, the plant was totally destroyed by fire he was a solid Democrat, taking an active but in the same year he erected another

part in politics, and filled several township factory near his present home, and followed

ofiSces. He was a consistent and earnest that line of business with marked success member of the Baptist Church of Davisville, until 1892. In that year he purchased a Pa. His wife was Rebecca Booz, by whom tract of land consisting of 75 acres, located he reared two sons, namely ; our subject one mile south of the borough of Doyles- and Mahlon H. , a prominent citizen of town, and moved his factory there ; this

Doylestown who is engaged in house paint- building was destroyed April 8, 1 897, but it

ing and paper hanging. Mahlon H. is also a was immediately rebuilt, and our subject still strong Democrat, and has served fifteen years continues to manufacture tallow and phos- as a school director ; he is also a director of phate, and to deal in hides. The plant is a the Doylestown Trust Company. Our sub- brick structure, equipped with the latest ject's mother passed from this life in 1849 at machinery, and employment is given to eight Richboro, this county. Mr. Dungan chose hands. In 1877, Mr. Dungan purchased the for his second wife Cynthia Ann Doan, and property on Maple avenue, where he now

two children were born to them that grew to resides ; it contained but 1 3 acres at the

maturity: Sallie, the wife of Albert Fesmyre time our subject purchased it, but at various of Hartsville, this county; and William, a times he has added to it, until he now owns

resident of Southampton township. 75 acres ; it is in the best possible state of Wallace Dungan was but a lad when his cultivation, and ranks among the foremost parents moved to Northampton township, farms in the county. In 1878, he erected his

and at the age of thirteen years he went to present home, which is surrounded by a

Tinicum township where he remained three beautiful lawn. Our subject owns in all ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 409

some 177 acres of land, and also two houses located in Pennsylvania in 1801, and was in Bushington, this county. pastor of the' Southampton Baptist Church

Mr. Dungan is a Democrat in politics, but until his death. His wife Ann (Edmunds) he always casts his vote in favor of the best Montanye, was also born in New York" State men in local politics is life ; he a stockholder in January 27, 1771, and passed from January the Doylestown Trust Company, and is one 2, i860. of the enterprising and progressive business George Fetter, the father of our subject, men of the town. Socially, he is a member was born in Huntingdon Valley, Pa., August of Doylestown lyodge, No. 245, F. & A. M. 16, 1786, arid resided in his native county all

Doylestown Chapter, No. 270, R. A. M. ; and his life pursuing the vocatiori of an agricul-

Mary Commandery, No. 36, K. T., of Phila- turist, his death occurring February 16, 1865. delphia. February 21, 1867, Mr. Dungan In politics, he was a strong Democrat, but was wedded to Rachel Heaton of Moreland, was not an office seeker. He was married

Pa., and one child has blessed this happy December 16, 18 13, to Cornelia Montanye, a union, Effie T., the wife of William Worth- native of the Empire State, and a daughter ington who is employed in our subject's fac- of. Rev. Thorhas B. and Ann (Edmunds) tory. Mr. Dungan is a member and deacon Montanye ; they became the parents of a of the Baptist Church of Doylestown, of family of twelve children, named as follows : which his wife is also a member. Casper G., who died at the age of seventy- five years, was a farmer of Southampton,

Pa., and his wife was Ann Search ; Eliza Ann, who now resides in Huntingdon Val-

AVID S. FETTER is a represent- ley, Pa., was married three times,—her first ative of one of the early pioneer husband 'was Evan Barcalo, her second, Ji families of Bucks County, and is Samuel Robison, and her third, Seereck engaged in the cultivation of the soil in Shalcross ; Margaret, deceased, was the wife

Northampton township, where he occupies a of Christopher Search, also deceased ; Samuel fine farm. He was born in Huntingdon E., a retired farmer, was twice united in mar-

Valley, Montgomery County, Pa., March 30, riage, —his first wife was Elizabeth Twining,

1835, and is a son of George and Cornelia and his second was Emma McDowell ;| Lousia, (Montanye) Fetter, and grandson of Casper deceased, was the wife of Griffith M. Search, Fetter. a farmer; Amy is the wife of Edmund Casper Fetter was a well-to-do farmer of Craven, a retired citizen of Philadelphia his day, and carried on that occupation all Thomas M. , a farmer, married Rachael I^eu-

his life. The maternal grandfather of our den ; David S., the subject of this biography subject was Rev. Thomas B. Montanye, who Harriet is' the wife of Hiram Cornell ; and was born in New York State, January 29, three that died in infancy.

1769, and died September 27, 1829; He David S. Fetter received a common school 4IO BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

1869. Mr. and education and remained on the homestead Seeley, born January 23, are the parents of four until he attained the age of twenty-three Mrs. Worthington Raymond, Albert C, years, when he engaged in the milling busi children,— David, W. Politically, Mr. Fetter is a ness at Pennypack, Pa., for six years; the and Ralph E- ensuing four years were spent in the city of solid Democrat. Philadelphia, where he was engaged, in the flour and feed business. Upon the death of his father-in-law in 1865, he moved to his present place, and carried on farming until (j^,AMES MONROE VANDEGRIFT, a the old and 1878, when he became a resident of Doyles- descendant of one of of families of Bucks County, town. Pa. , and while there he was steward well known capacity been living in retirement since 1895, en- the Almshouse ; he remained in that has until 1882, in that year returning to his farm, joying the fruits of his early labors. This where he has resided up to the present time. old and honored citizen has been a life-long has Our subject is an intelligent and well-read resident of Buckingham township, and

man, and is highly respected by his fellow- been engaged in the milling business in the citizens. village of Pineville the greater part of his

Mr. Fetter was wedded December 30, 1858, life. The date of our subject's birth was

to Mary Dungan of Northampton township, March 9, 1826, and he is a son of James and and a daughter of John and Eliza (Reed) Ann (Van Horn) Vandegrift. Dungan, both natives of Northampton town- James Vandegrift was born and reared in the Northampton township, and he, too, resided ship ; the former died July 18, 1868, and

latter died November 23,1 894. Mr. and Mrs. in Bucks County all his life. During his

Dungan were the parents of the - following boyhood days he learned the trade of a tailor,

children : Harmon Y., born December 30, and followed the same a number of years, agri- 1832, died February 26, 1835 ; Dyer C, born when he took to farming and carried on

August died December 24, cultural pursuits the rest of his active days. 30, 1835, 1859 i Mary, born June 22, 1837, is the wife of our He was joined in marriage with Ann Van

subject ; and John, born July 14, 1842, and Horn and they became the parents of five

died October 6, 1 862 . The home of our sub- children, who were named as follows : Willi- ject and wife has been blessed by the follow- mina, the wife of Strickland Ridge, and they children: Albert M., born November reside at this Mon- ing 8, Tullytown, county ; James 1859, is bookkeeper for Hunt, Wilkinson & roe, whose name appears at the head of this

Co., of Philadelphia ; Elmer E., born August notice; John, deceased; Mary Ann, also de-

5, 1861, is a piano tuner; I^izzie is the wife ceased ; and Charlotte, deceased. The mother of Walter W. S. Worthington, a merchant of our subject departed from this life at her

of Neshaminy, Pa.; John D., bom June 8, home in Middletown township, Bucks Coun-

1866, a resident of Philadelphia; and F. ty, Pa. BUCKS COUNTY 411

James Monroe Vandegrift remained at home L,aura, Benjamin, and one that died in in-

during his early days, and was educated in the fancy. Our subject and his first wife were

district schools of his native township ; al- the parents of one child, which died, aged

though our, subject was reared to agricultural five years; and by his second wife he reared

pursuits, he never followed that vocation one daughter, Lottie B., the wife of Wilmer other than working on his father's farm, and Twining, a resident of Wrightstown, this

early in life he became a resident of Wrights- county. Prior to the Civil War our subject town, this county, and there embarked in the was a strong Democrat, but when that terri- milling business; he was employed to operate ble war began, being opposed to slavery, he several mills while residing in.that vicinity. joined the ranks of the Republicans. Mr. In 1872, as our subject had become thorough- and -Mrs. Vandegrift are members of the

ly acquainted witli that line of business, he Friends' Meeting ; fraternally, our subject is

decided upon entering the .milling business a member of the I. O. O. F. Lodge, of Rich-

on his own account, and accprdingly he and boro, Pa., and Doylestown Lodge, No. 245, his brother, John C, purchased a mill in Buck- F. & A. M.

ingham, and operated the same until 1895, when he retired from the more active duties of

life. Upon Mr. Vandegrift' s retirement from the milling business, he moved to the village of MOS W. KIRK. No township in has been more favored Pineville ; he is spending his latter days in hap- Bucks County

piness and comfort, and is surrounded by a in the matter of fine farm land, large circle of acquaintances, who greatly re- and prosperous, intelligent husbandmen, than spect him for his many excellent personal traits Buckingham, and a record of its prominent of character. He is an upright and honest citi- citizens would be incomplete were the life zen in every respect, and takes an active in- sketch of Amos W. Kirk omitted. He is terest in the advancement of the general wel- now retired from active work and is a worthy fare of the community. representative of a family, long and favora-

Mr. Vandegrift has been thrice united in bly known in Buckingham township ; he marriage; his first wife was Emily Bodine, was born in Solebury township, this county, and upon her death he wedded Sarah Gaine; February i, 1827, and is a son of Charles and she died, and he formed a third alliance with Mary (Walton) Kirk, and grandson of Amos Mrs. Sarah Eastburn, of Lower Makefield Kirk. Our subject's grandfather was a life- township. She was the widow of Benjamin long resident of Buckingham township, Eastburn and a daughter of Amos Doan. By where he successfully carried on agricultural her first husband she reared four children, pursuits. two of whom are now living, Isabella M.; and Charles Kirk, the father of our subject,

George L., who married Sarah Heston, of was born and reared in Buckingham town- Pineville, and has four children, —Mary O., ship. In addition to carrying on general 412 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

farming, he operated the old mill that stood Worthington ; she died in 1 860, and March on the homestead ; he moved to Solebury 7, 1866, our subject was united in marriage early in life, and when our subject was but with Mary H. Mahah, who was born Decem- a mere boy of five years became a resident of ber 16, 1843, ^n

occupation as a farmer until our subject at- wife died November 6, 1886, leaving a family tained the age of twenty years, when he of two children, namely: Edward R., who returned to his native township and there married Anna H. Holcomb of Newtown prosecuted his former occupation until death township; and Anna W., who keeps house

claimed him, which was on May i8, 1856. for her father. Mr. Kirk and family are at- He was joined in marriage with Mary Walton, tendants of the Friends' Meeting. Our sub-

a native of Horsham, Montgomery County, ject has been a life-long Republican, but is Pa. , and she passed from this life November not an aspirant to office, although he has ever 30, 1865. This union was blessed by the manifested a deep interest in the welfare of birth of four children, who were named as his township and county.

follows : Amos W., the subject of this notice; George D., who resides on the homestead ; . Miranda S., the wife of Edward Roberts, a resident of Buckingham township ; and |ISS MARY SLACK, whoisaworthy Ellen W., the wife of Theodore Doan, a re- representative of an old and highly tired resident of Pineville, Pa. respected family ofBucks County, Our subject was reared to life farm almost resides in her beautiful home on Main street, from the cradle, and in his boyhood days Penn's Park, in Wrightstown township, attended the district school that stood a short where she is held in highest esteem by a large distance from his home ; although his educa- circle of acquaintances and friends. She is a tional advantages were quite limited, yet his native of this county, and is a daughter of opportunities for learning in the school of David and Jane (Worthington) Slack. practical life were abundant. After our Her grandfather on the paternal side was subject's marriage, he commenced life for Joseph Slack, a native of Lower Makefield himself as an agriculturist, and with the aid township, where he was engaged in agricul- of his faithful wife he has met with well- tural pursuits during his entire life. He was merited success, being now the owner of the twice joined in matrimonial bonds, his second old homestead. He moved to Pineville in union being with Mary Van Hart, a native where he is 1892, now living retired, enjoy- of Lower Makefield township, by whom he ing the fruits of his early toil. became the father of David Slack, the father Mr. Kirk on October 20, 1859, married of our subject. Jane S. Worthington, a native of Bucking- David Slack was reared to agricultural pur- ham township, and a daughter of William suits and followed farming all of his active BUCKS COUNTY 413

life in Buckingham and Northampton town- many excellent traits of character and true

ships, finally locating in Wrightstown town- womanly instincts. She is an active and ship, where he lived until his death in 1863. faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal He was a man of high principles, well in- Church of the village in which she resides. formed on subjects of interest of his day, and

no one was more highly regarded by the citizens of the various communities in which he lived. He was faithful in the discharge of OHN J. BROCK, deceased, whose his duty as a citizen, as a kind father and death occurred December 10, 1895,

husband, and as a true neighbor. He was was a prominent and well-to-do citi- united in marriage with Jane Worthington, zen of Doylestown, and for a period of nearly a daughter of William Worthington, and forty years was connected with the Doyles- granddaughter of Richard Worthington, who town National Bank, during the greater part immigrated to this country from Wales when of this period serving as the cashier. He a small boy, and was the first of that family was widely known in the financial circles of to locate in this country. William Worth- Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, and ington was a well-known resident of Buck- was regarded with highest esteem by promi- ingham township, Bucks County, where Mrs. nent bankers and others with whom his Slack was born. closed She her eyes in final business brought him in contact. He filled sleep in 1882, at the advanced age of eighty- his -important and responsible position in seven years and six months. Their happy the community with dignity and in a quiet union was blessed by the birth of five chil- and unostentatious manner. The history of dren, record a of whom is as follows : Albert, his life is almost a history of the institution deceased, was a farmer, who married Eliza- with which he was associated so many years.

beth Fell, also deceased ; George, deceased, Mr. Brock was born on February 16, 1820, in married Ann Major, deceased, and resided in Doylestown, in the house now occupied by state the of Indiana ; William, who died at Susan Darlington, on Maple avenue. His the age of fourteen years Joseph married parents ; were Stephen and Mary (Jones) Elizabeth Carver, and both are now deceased Brock. ;

and Mary, whose name heads this biographi- Stephen Brock, the father, who was a lead- cal record. ing man in the community, was probably a Miss Slack attended the public schools and descendant of the first John Brock in this obtained a good intellectual training. In country, who came here from England in 1882, she and her mother purchased the 1682. Stephen Brock was twice elected handsome home at Penn's Park, in which sheriflf.of the county, and exercised a wide since resided. she has Having lived in that influence in public aflFairs. His was a strength section all of her life, she is possessed of many of character much beyond the ordinary, and friends there, who dearly love her for her this, combined with prepossessing manners, 414 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

made him extremely popular and widely and though other institutions sprang up in known throughout this entire district. The close proximity, the business kept on grow- lead. following children were born to him : Pres- ing apace, and was always in the There ton, who engaged in the hotel business in is no question but that the cashier's ability, Bethlehem; Jonathan, who was one of the integrity and personal popularity were in a

first promoters of passenger street railways great measure the chief factors in the bank's

in Baltimore, Md. ; Stephen, who became success. In transacting the business of the

superintendent of the passenger street rail- institution, Mr. Brock was ably assisted by

ways in St. l/ouis, Mo. ; Henry, who was l/cwis P. Worthington, Sharp Hulshizer, engaged in the railroad business in the South John Yardley and George P. Brock, who en-

during and after the War; John J.; Mrs. tered the bank in the order named. Mr.

Josiah Hart ; Mrs. Mahlon Yardley ; and Worthington took a position in the bank Mary, who died when quite young. soon after Mr. Brock became cashier, and he

When a young man John J. Brock engaged succeeded Mr. Brock upon that gentleman's in mercantile business with James B. Smith, decease. Before the days of railroads Mr. the firm opening a store in 1844, and contin- Brock was accustomed to take the bank's uing in business until 1846, when Mr. Brock money once a week to Philadelphia by stage.

sold his interest, and entered what is now the Mr. Brock was esteemed for many excel- Doylestown National Bank. He possessed lent qualities by the people of his native

in a marked degree all the qualities that town and county. His integrity, ability and fitted him to become a prominent and suc- faithfulness to trusts imposed in him stamped cessful financier, and had he entered a larger him as a model business man. He took a field, he would without doubt have become deep and sincere interest in Doylestown, and more widely known. Though he entered the served the borough many years in the coun- bank as clerk in 1846, he became cashier in cil. He never held any other office, and the year following, and held that position the never aspired to do so. He was always ready, rest of his life. His ways were quiet and however, to render advice or financial assist- simple, but his work was none the less im- tance to any worthy public enterprise. Dur- portant to the community. As a banker he ing the Civil War he was very active in discharged his duties with conspicuous ability rendering financial aid to soldiers' widows and with the utmost fairness. and orphans, deprived of means of suste-

At that early day, when he became a nance. He' was a regular attendant of St. trusted officer of the bank, country banks Paul's Episcopal Church. Socially, he was were few and far between, and the Doyles- one of the most popular men of Doylestown, town bank was a very important institution. and without any attempt at self-aggrandize- The ramifications of its business continued ment achieved an honorable name and a posi- to increase under Mr. Brock's able manage- tion in life. He was esteemed and appreciated ment, and finally it became a national bank, at his true worth as a man and neighbor. He

DR. JAMES IRVING CAWLEY. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 417

had many friends because he merited friend- he was made president. Politically, he is a ship. His wife, Julia Philler, was a daughter stanch Republican, and has taken an active of George and Esther Philler, of Philadelphia, and intelligent interest in the affairs of the and sister of George Philler, president of the party, but has never been an aspirant to

First National Bank of that city. Their office. Religiously, he is identified with St. children numbered two, as follows : -George Paul's Episcopal; Church; of ,;Doylestown, of

P., assistant cashier of the Dpylestown Na- which he is a vestryman. .;0n December 15, tional Bank, whose sketch follows this; and 1883, he married Mary Lear,"daughter of the

Ivouisa P., who became the wife of Henry late Hon: George Lear, an eminent attorney

Lear, Esq., a leading member of the Bucks of Doylestown, whose; life is sketched in the County Bar, and president of the Doylestown biographical notice of his son, Henry Lear, National Bank, whose life record is found Esq., that appears on anothier page. elsewhere in this work. George P. Brock, assistant cashier of the Doylestown National Bank, is the only son of the late John J. Brock, whose sketch ap- R. JAMES. IRVING CAWLEY, pears above. He was born June 29^ 1859, in whose portrait appear^s on the op- ^. Doylestown. He was educated in the Doyles- posite page, for nearly a score of

town English and Classical Institute, ' and years has practiced h'is; profession at Spring- later entered Cheltenham Academy, near town, Springfield township, Bucks County, Philadelphia, Pa., from which he 'was grad- Pa.,. where,, and in the neighborhood, he has, uated in 1877. Immediately after his, gradu- as .a skillful ai;d successful . physician and ation he entered the Doylestown Nationa;l surgeon, established, a [reputation second to Bank, of which his father was,cashier, aS an none in the county. The/;doctor was born accountant, in which capacity hq soon hsj in/Lower Saucoh .to.wns)iipj, Northampton came accurate and proficient. ^ JJpon the .County, Pa., October .6; 1853,, and is a son of death of his father, in 1895^ Lewis P: "^prth- John.R. and Mary (Harlacher) .Cawley, grand- ington was promoted to th.e.ppsition.of cashier, sou of John, and i,Mary (Rouey).,Cawley, and and our subject became' the assistant cajshier, -great-grandson; of Thomas .Cav^J^y.

which position he is now occupying,, .Mr-. : Among; themariy iniuential atid enterpris-

Brock is an active and energetic young man, ing families of Northampton County, the and has taken an active interest in many Cawley family stands among the oldest and enterprises, whose ultimate objects have been most esteemed of the early pioneer settlers the upbuilding and improvement of the bor- it was founded in this country by Thomas, ough. Among these enterprises may be men- the great-grandfather of our subject, and his tioned the organization of the Doylestown & brother James, who departed from their na- Willow Grove Traction Company in 1887, tive place, Cheshire, England, and immi- in which he was a leading spirit, and of which grated to America prior to the Revolutionary 4i8 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

War. Thomas settled in I^ower Saucon two days. He was twice united in the bonds

township, Northampton County, Pa., where of matrimony, his first wife being Susanna

many of his descendants now reside. He took Huber, who died early in life, leaving three

up a large tract of land and carried on farm- children, namely : Sarah, the wife of Moses

ing until death claimed him, which was on Butz ; Elias, who was wedded to Sarah

August 5, 1806. He was the progenitor of Trump, and William W., who married Am-

the following children : John Jesse ; Thomas anda Ruch. His second wife was Mary ; ; Har- Elizabeth and James. lacher, a daughter of Michael Harlacher, of John Cawley, the grandfather of our sub- Allentown, Pa., and this union was blessed by ject, was born on his father's farm in lyower the birth of the following children : James

Saucon township, September 22, and I., the subject 1777, of this brief notice ; Major Mor- was reared to agricultural pursuits, which oc- ris F., married Jennie Martin, and they reside cupation he made his life's vocation. In after at Allentown, Pa., —he served as surgeon in years he took charge of the homestead, and, the 4th Reg., Penna. Vol., in the Spanish- erecting a mill, he manufactured gun pow- American War ; and Charles H., a resident der during the Revolutionary War in con- of Easton, who married Alice Albert.

nection with his farming. He was married Dr. James I. Cawley was reared to man- to Mary Roney, and the following children hood on his father's farm, and received a were born to them : John, deceased Susan, ; rudimentary training in the common schools

deceased ; Albert, wedded to Elizabeth Miller of his ; native township, which was later sup- Elizabeth, wife of Philip Kunsman ; Han- plemented by a course in the Freeburg Acad- nah, wife of Peter Bleyer; Marie, wife of emy of Snyder County ; he also attended Aaron Cressman, and Mrs. Miller. All are Muhlenberg CoUtge at Allentown, Pa. Our deceased except Marie. subject then commenced the study of medi- John R. Cawley, our subject's father, was cine, and upon his graduation from the Medi- born on the Cawley homestead December 4, cal Department of the University of Pennsyl-

181 ; upon attaining his majority 1 he became vania, began the practice of his calling at possessed of a part of the hotnestead property Schnecksville, Pa., in 1877, where he re- and followed farming and milling until he remained two years ; his next field of operation tired. also operated the He mill that stood was Springtown and immediate vicinity, on his farm, which destroyed was by fire in where he located in 1879, and where he has

1868, shortly after he it ; sold selling the re- since been engaged in the general practice of mainder of his property, he moved to Snyder his profession, his ride being a wide one, his County, Pa., continued farming, and later skill as a physician and surgeon and his cour- moved to Allentown, Pa., where he lived in teous and social manner as a gentleman, hav- retirement the rest of his life. He passed ing made him extremely popular, and sur- from this life Januaiy 26, 1889, at the age of rounded him with hosts of friends. Dr. seventy-seven years, one mouth and twenty- Cawley is recognized as the leadingphysician ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 419

and surgeon of his vicinity, and he has been Montgomery County, Pa., and was latef a closely devoted to his profession and is an resident of Churchville, where he lived the eminently successful practitioner in medicine. rest of his life, engaged in agricultural pur- During Harrison's administration hesei-ved suits. He was a member and an active as pension examiner of his vicinity ; he is a worker of the Reformed Church. He was stockholder in the Quakertown & Eastern united in marriage with Martha Finney, and Railroad. He purchased the Samuel Ful- a family of seven children was reared, —four nier residence, which he remodeled into a sons and three daughters. The grandfather handsome residence and home, and in which of our subject died in 1882, aged about eighty- he has an elegant suite of ofiice rooms. two years. Our subject's father was born in Fraternally, Dr. Cawley is a member of the 1823, at Churchville, Montgomery County,

Allentown Lodge, I. O. O. F.; Councilor of Pa., where he resided until he attained his

the Jr. O. U. A. M., of Springtown ; member manhood, when in 1869 he took up his resi- and district president of the P. O. S. of A. dence at Hatboro, where he embarked in the ex-president of the Bucks County Medical mercantile business for four years. Purchas-

Society ; and a member of the Lehigh Val- ing a farm near Hatboro, he successfully en-

ley Medical Society, Pennsylvania State gaged in the tilling of the soil, and continued

Medical Society, and American Medical As- in that independent calling until 1883, when

sociation. Religiously, the Doctor is a mem- he removed to North Wales, the same county,

ber of the Reformed Church. December 31, and lived in retirement. Politically, he is a

1878, Dr. Cawley was united in the bonds of stanch Democrat ; in his religious belief, matrimony with Annie M. Clauser, a daugh- he was formerly a member of the Presbyte- ter of Joel Clauser of Lehigh County. They rian Church, but now affiliates with the Re- have no children. The Doctor has written formed Church, and has held many positions a number of valuable papers on medical and in the latter organization. His wife was Ann

other subjects. Politically, he is a Republi- vS. Ritchie, a daughter of Thomas Ritchie, can, and stands high in the councils of his who comes from one of the oldest families of party. Montgomery County. Four sons and three daughters blessed this union, namely: Edwin,

a resident of Scranton, Pa. ; Sue, the wife of the leading Frank McVaugh, of Philadelphia Joanna gINFORD R. CRAVEN, ;

photographer of Doylestown, Pa. , and was wedded to Lewis K. Hall, of New Hope,

is ^^^ a prominent citizen of that bor- this county ; William a prominent citizen ough, was born in Hilltown township, Bucks of Bridgeport, Montgomery County, Pa.

County, Pa., May 26, 1864, and is a son of Linford R. , our subject ; Robert, a resident of Montgomery County Joseph and Ann S. (Ritchie) Craven. Ashbourne, ; and Mary, Abraham Craven, the grandfather of our deceased, who was the wife of Elmer Smith. subject, was born near the village of Hatboro, Linford R. Craven was but three years old ; ;

420 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

when his parents took up their residence at gate to a number of county conventions in Hatboro, and our subject remained in the Montgomery County, and in 1895 was elected public schools of that village until he was a member of the school board of Doyles- fourteen years of age; he then completed his town. Religiously, he is a member of the elementary training in the public schools of Presbyterian Church, and is a consistent Brownsburg, Bucks County. The next five worker of the Christian Endeavor Society. years were spent at farming at New Hope, this He is a member of the Doylestown lyodge,

county ; later he moved to Abington, Mont- No. 94, 1. O. O. F. ; St. Tammany Castle, No.

gomery County, where he again took up his 173, Knights of the Golden Eagle, of which

former vocation. Two years were spent in he is sir herald ; Royal Arcanum ; and the clerking in a store at Frankford, Philadelphia local lodge of the Heptasophs, of which he

County, and he then removed to North Wales, is secretary. Mr. Craven chose for his life and for three years engaged in the manufac- companion Fannie H. Johnson, of Doyles- ture of shirts. In 1883, he came to Doyles- town, and they were happily wedded Feb-

town, this county, and, after being engaged ruary 14, 1883. in the shirt business one year, began working for Samuel F. Du Bois, a prominent photog-

rapher of Doylestown ; he also worked under William Boyce, of Philadelphia, a fine artist IhUAM RUFE, the genial and originally from Germany. In 1885 our sub- Wipopular proprietor of the hotel and ject opened a portable gallery in Doylestown, a general merchandise store of Revere, Nock- which business he followed a short time, amixon township, Bucks County, is widely when in the same year he purchased the old known throughout the county as a man of spoke factory located on Court and State great enterprise. He has been instrumental streets. He removed the old buildings and in the building up of the village to a large erected on this site his present studio and extent, and is now serving as town clerk and residence, which he opened in 1886; he con- postmaster. He is a son of John F. and ducts a regular line of photographic work, Catherine (Hager) Rufe, and was born July including carbonettes, royal carbonettes, 26, 1833, in the hotel which he now conducts. crayons, water colors, and bromide pastelles His grandfather, George Rufe, who was he also manufactures picture frames, and born in Germany, at an early day came to handles etchings, artotypes, and photo-en- America, locating on a farm in Nockamixon gravures. Mr. Craven has carefully studied township, Bucks County, where Henry his line of art work and possesses much Dewise now resides. There he engaged in natural artistic talent, and hence turns out agricultural pursuits and plied his trade as a superior work in his various lines. blacksmith. He and his wife Sarah, who Mr. Craven is a Democrat in politics, and was also a native of Germany, reared the fol- filled has many local offices ; he was a dele- lowing children : Jacob ; Frederick ; Samuel —,

BUCKS COUNTY 421

John; George; Sarah, the wife of Joseph married Cora Kohl, and Annie C, the wife

Fulmer; Mrs. Michael Worman ; and two of Oscar Stone ; Amanda became the wife daughters who died before maturity. of Hugh Kintner Josiah married Mary ; John F. Rufe, the father of our subject, Wicker, and has a family of three children, learned the trade of a blacksmith and estab- all of whom are married, —William DeWitt

lished his business in 1824 at The Swamp, Clinton, Ida Aquita, and Estella ; William is

where the Shelley property is now located. the subject of this sketch ; and John H., the He later purchased the Bucks estate, con- youngest member of the family, who married

sisting of a large farm and a stone hotel Amy J. Johnson, and four children have located upon a fine upland plain, where the been born to them, viz., —Horace deceased,

village of Revere is now situated, and there Sally, John J. , and Edgar. carried on general farming and operated the William Rufe assisted his father in the

hotel with much success for many years. duties on the homestead until 1 867, when he He also built a blacksmith shop and followed embarked in the mercantile business in a that line of business in connection with his store which he had built in i860, but had other business. He erected a set of good leased for seven years. He has since con- substantial buildings upon the estate, which tinued in that line of business and has a fine,

is now owned by his son,' Readden Rufe. large store, well equipped with a comprehen- Upon his death he left a large estate to be sive line of general merchandise, and enjoys divided among the members of his family. the patronage of the leading citizens of the

His long and useful life came to an end in vicinity. He owns a good farm which is

the seventy -fifth year of his age, and his wife under a high state of cultivation and is sup- died at the age of eighty-eight years. He plied with new barns and other out-buildings. was joined in wedlock with Catherine Hager, He also erected a hall, in which the village a daughter of Valentine Hager, by whom he meetings are held, and like his father has identified with the progress of had the following offspring : Isaac, an agri- been closely culturist of this township, married Caroline the village's interests. In 1886, he estab- Hager, who died at the age of thirty-one lished the Revere post office and has since years, by whom he had a daughter, Mary C. served as postmaster. He has also been town the wife of Alonzo Nicholas of Doylestown, clerk for a period of twenty years. Socially, Isaac Rufe formed a second union with Mary he is a member of the Knights of the Golden

Stem, and they had one son, Webster ; Read- Eagle.

den, who is farming on the old homestead, Mr. Rufe was united in marriage with married Mary Ann Hillpot, and four chil- Sally Johnson, a daughter of Hartwell John- dren blessed their union, —Ella, the wife of son of Bridgetou, Pa., and the following

Dr. P. H. Grim, a record of whose life also children were born to them : Belle, deceased, appears in this work, Josiah H., whose married John Trauger and left one daughter,

sketch is given elsewhere, Seymore, who Sadie; William is a merchant of Riegels- —

422 BOOK OF BIO&RAPHIKS

resides at ship. She died in 1832, leaving a family of ville; Catherine home ; Emma J., who resides at home, is employed as a teach- six children, namely : Amos S., who is the

is er ; Harry assists his father in operating the only one living at present and past his sev- store; and Floyd, who is attending school. enty-second birthday, he is a resident of Phil-

In religious belief, he is a member of the adelphia, where he worked at his trade as a

Lutheran Church. coachmaker many years ; Aaron H. ; Amanda was the wife of Abel M. Evans John M. ; ; Lydia Annie was the wife of Peter Colby J. ;

tlDMUND L,. SUMMERS, who has been and Enos, whose death occurred at the age of J justice of the peace at Chalfont, twenty-two years. His second matrimonial this county, for the past thirty years, is one alliance was with Elizabeth Griffiths, and a of the leading and substantial citizens of that family of six children was born to this union, village. He was born in New Britain town- namely : Abigail, the wife of Thomas J. Stevens, a farmer of New Britain township ship, Bucks County, Pa., one mile from the ; above village, and the date of his birth was Oliver P. is a farmer and justice of the peace

November 27, 1841. He is a son of John and of Grove County, Kansas ; Edmund L,., the

Elizabeth (Griffiths) Summers, and grandson subject of this sketch ; Angelina resides on of Nicholas Summers, who was a well-to-do the homestead ; Silas E. died in February, farmer of New Britain township, this county. 1894; and Elizabeth died in 1852, aged three John Summers, the father of our subject, years. The mother of our subject died in was born in Montgomery County, Pa., in 1868.

1795. He was but six years of age when his Edmund L,. Summers acquired a good edu- father moved to New Britain township, this cation in the common and select schools of county; there he assisted his father in the his native township, and later attended a pri- labors about the farm, and at the same time vate school. At the age of twenty-three years learned the trade of a tailor, which occupa- he began teaching school in New Britain tion he followed a number of years in New township, and taught there for a period of Britain township; about 1850 he took to two years ; he then became principal of the farming and continued the vocation until' New Britain Academy, in which capacity he death claimed him, which was in when remained some five years 1873, ; at the expiration he was aged seventy-nine years. He served of that time, he gave up teaching and about his fellow-townsmen as trustee of the schools 1867 began tilling the soil ; later he farmed and held other minor offices. He was twice during the summer months and taught dur- joined in marriage, his first wife being Eliza- ing the winters. After our subject's marriage, beth Hines, a native of Hilltown township, he became a resident of Chalfont, where he this county, and a daughter of Isaac Hines, has since resided and is highly esteemed by who was deacon of the Hilltown Baptist his fellow- citizens, who regard him as one of Church, and a prominent farmer of that town- the valuable members of the community. ;;

BUCKS COUNTY 423

December 24, 1887, Mr. Summers was younger and more vigorous hands. He is a wedded to Elzada S. Snyder, of Easton, Pa., descendant of one of the pioneer families of a daughter, of Jacob and Catherine Snyder Bucks County, and was born in Buckingham

her father was a bricklayer and worked at township May 27, 18 16, and is a son of Easton, Pa., Washington, D. C, and at Phil- Joseph Carver. adelphia, and at the time of his death was William Carver, the great-great-grand- keeping hotel at Chalfont, Pa. Her mother father of our subject, a native of England, now resides with our subject and wife. Mr. in 1682, left his native land, and came to and Mrs. Summers are the parents of two this country, locating in Philadelphia County,

children, who are named as follows : Florence at Byberry. About 1700 he came to Buck-

Irene, born June 23, 1890; and Marion E-, ingham township, this county, and followed born July 21, 1894, and died aged seven his vocation of a farmer, which was also the

months. Our subject is secretary of the vocation of his son William, the great-grand- Whitehall Insurance Company, of Doyles- father of our subject. William also followed town. Pa., and secretary of the Chalfont Mu- the trade of a carpenter to a large extent, tual Wind & Storm Insurance Company. and aided in the erection of the brick hotel,

Politically, Mr. Summers is a solid Republi- which is still standing in Newtown. His can, and takes an active interest in politics wife was a Miss Strickler, and they were tlie ; he is now serving as justice of the peace, a parents of three children, namely : Joseph ; position he has held for the past thirty years Mary, the wife of a William Kirk ; and he has also served as judge of elections, and William, who died in his boyhood days. as inspector and in other minor township of- Joseph Carver, the grandfather of our subject, fices. Religiously, Mrs. Summers is a mem- followed the vocation of a miller and farmer ber of the I^utheran Church, and Mr. Sum- during his early manhood; later he operated mers is a Baptist and has served as president a saw and flouring mill, and, after his removal and secretaiy of the board of trustees a num- to Philadelphia, embarked in the flour busi- ber of years. ness, which business he continued to follow until his death. He married Elizabeth Kim- ble, by whom he reared five children, who

were named as follows : Jesse P. ; Esther, the This hon- of McDowell Eliza, II.LIAM K. CARVER. wife William Joseph ; ; highly esteemed citizen to Kirk and Anthony. Wiored and wedded Samuel ; Jo- of Newtown is one of the oldest residents of seph Carver entered the world of rest in 1835 Bucks County, and a man of great energy aged seventy-six years, and his wife died at and force of character. After being con- about the same age. nected with the mercantile business of New- Joseph Carver, our subject's father, was town for two score of years, he retired from born in Buckingham township, this county, the active duties of life, to make room for and his younger days were spent in working ; :

424 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

in his father's mills in that vicinity ; he moved Meeting. January 30, 1850, our subject was

to Philadelphia with his parents, and remarried to Sarah Phillips, a daughter of mained there the rest of his active days. He Samuel and Amelia (Watson) Phillips, and

was the progenitor of the following children : she died in 1864, at the age of forty years. William K., whose name heads this brief Three children blessed this union, namely

notice ; Wilson Jesse H. Joseph P., a clerk in the shoe department of J. ; ; Joseph C. Mary, the wife of Wanamaker Brown, Philadelphia, Edward Woodman ; and & was Elizabeth, who was married to Joseph Greer. wedded to I/illian Worthington^ and they

William K. Carver attended the district have one daughter, Sarah A.; Adella P. is school of the neighborhood, and assisted his the wife of Edgar Pullen, and they are the father in the labors about the farm during his parents of three children, —William K.,

boyhood days ; he continued the occupation Grover C., Sarah C. ; and William K., who of an agriculturist until 1840, when he be- died in infancy. came a clerk in his brother's store at Doling- ton, this county. In 1846 he returned to Newtown, where he accepted a like position with K. B. Tomlinson, and, having become pj ENJAMIN E. JOHNSON was edu- thoroughly acquainted with the mercantile ^TN cated to agricultural pursuits on

business, in 1850, in partnership with B. his present farm, where he has fol- Buckman, he bought out his employer. They lowed that independent calling up to the carried the on business five )ears, when our present time ; his homestead is handsomely subject's partner was succeeded by J. T. situated in the heart of one of the best farm- Simpson, and some years later Mr. Simpson ing communities in Bucks County, in Upper was succeeded by Benjamin Hough, who was Makefield township. He was born in the succeeded by John M. Staples, who remained above township, April 20, 185 1, and is a son until 1874, when our subject took in Joseph of Edwin and Ann E. (Eastburn) Johnson, Greer, who J. purchased a half interest in the and grandson of John ly. and Sarah (Ridg- store; the business was successfully carried way) Johnson. on until they 1890, when both sold out and John L,. Johnson was a miller by trade and retired from the active duties of life. operated a mill near Germantown; he also Mr. Carver was postmaster of Newtown owned a farm there, which he operated in from 1859 to 1884, and served as trustee of the connection with his milling. He resided in village five years. Socially he is a member of Solebury township a number of years, but at the Masonic Order, Newtown L,odge, F. & the time of his death he lived at Center A. M., and past master of the same; Royal Bridge, to which place he had moved from Arcanum past ; grand of the Newtown I^odge, Germantown. His wife died at the age of

I. F. ; in O. O. and his religious views is a eighty-five years. member and regular attendant of the Friends' Edwin Johnson, the father of our subject,

HENRY PAXSON ELY. BUCKS COUNTY 427'

was born near Germantown, August 14, 18 14, possession of the homestead, where he has and has been engaged in tilling the soil all resided continuously up to the present time,

his life. He first resided on the old Woolsey with the exception of three years he spent at place, and later made the Eastburn place in Centerville, Pa. He has 156 acres of finely

this township his home; in April, 1859, he tilled soil, his farm ranking among the best located ou our subject's present farm, known in the township,' and, in addition to farming, as the old Chapman farm,. which was made he carries oh stock-raising to a large extent.

the headquarters of George. Washington Mr. Johnson and ' family are prominent when his army was camped near German- members of the Friends' Meeting at Wrights-

town. He departed from this earth July 23, town; politically, he has 'always supported

1883. He was joined in marriage with Ann the Republican party and its measures and E. Eastburn, who was. born in Upper. Make- candidates, both by ballot and by voice. Mr.

field township, May 16, 1817, and their home Johnson and Harriet' Williams were united

was blessed by the birth of five children, in marriage January 13, 1876; she was born

who were named as follows: Henry, born in Buckingham township, March 25, 1854,

December 20, 1842, is a retired farmer of and is- a daughter of Edward and P. Ellen L/anghorne, and his wife is Lizzie Briggs; (Schofield) Williams, both of whom are now

George, born March 5, 1845, died May 23, deceased. Her mother's first husband was 1875, and his wife was Mary;. Shoemaker, Joseph Hunter. Three children were born who now resides with her daughter, Cynthia', to Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, namely: E Roland,

in Philadelphia ; Samuel A.; born September born in 1877,'died'aged eight months; Ethel

27, 1846, died October 27,. 1897, .and his wife resides at hbme ; and Ruth Anna, who was

was Anna Walton, whojresides with our sub- born July 13, 1884," and lives at home.

ject, and is the mother of one ;child,. Ella, the

wife of Palmer Tomlinson ; Benjamin E-, the subject of this biography; .and .Mary, born; December 2, 1857, who .died.'.aged eight I^TENRY PAXSON 'ELY, ex-county months. The mother of our.sabject haS T^4 surveyor of 'Bucks County, Pa., and

now passed her eighty-second, year in life, is -^-^ V>_^ a prdminferit and ekterprising citi-

well and hearty for one . of her years, and is zen of the village of Lahaska, where he is greatly esteemed and respected by heir many still continuing his profession as a surveyor,

acquaintances. was born in the borough of New Hope, this Benjamin E.' first attended the Johnson county, April 3, 1840, and is a son of Thomas primary schools of his vicinity and then the and Mary H. (Ely) Ely. Doylestown Academy, Doylestown, this coun- Thomas Ely was born in New Hope, where ty; returning to the homestead, he worked he always resided, with the exception of a with his father, assisting him in his labors few years, when he lived in Solebury town- about the farm, and, after his marriage, took ship. His vocation was that of a farmer, 428 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

pursuing that independent calling all his ing of Buckingham, while his sister is a active days. Mr. Ely was in all respects an member of the Friends' Meeting of Solebury. honest and good citizen, and contributed his Politically, our subject takes an active inter- share toward maintaining the good reputa- est in both local and general politics, but is tion and prosperity of his town. He served independent in his views. Mr. Ely is still

as school director of New Hope in 1854 ; re- in the prime of life, is active and enterprising, ligiously, he was a prominent member of the and is esteemed a man of great worth and

Friends' Meeting, and was elder of the same influence in his community. Mr. Ely is a eight years. He passed from life in Solebury compositor on the New Hope News. He is in townsliip 187S ; he was joined on the far- also a first-class jeweler. In 1896 he was a ther shore by his wife in 188 1. As a result candidate for the officeof justice of the peace, of his nnion with Mary H. Ely, who was a but was defeated. Mr. Ely's portrait is native of Chester County, Pa., a family of shown on a preceding page. nine children was born, four of whom are

now living, namely : Jeremiah S. , a well-to- do farmer of Solebury township; Mahlon D.;

Henry P., whose name heads the above lines; -OHN NICHOIvAS, one of the largest and I^etitia, who resides with our subject, vegetable and small fruit growers in

Howard, Deborah, Lucy and Eleanor died in Bucks County, is located on a fine their childhood. farm of 52 acres in Durham township, near Henry Paxson Ely was intellectually trained the village of Kintnersville, and adjoining the for the battles of life in the common schools old homestead, where he was born. The date of his native town, and prepared himself for of his birth was April 8, 1838, and he is a son a school teacher, but early in life he learned ofJohn Peter and Samantha (Foster) Nicholas, surveying, which profession he has followed grandson of John and Mary (I,ong) Nicholas, up to the present time. Mr. Ely is widely and great grandson of Christian Nicholas. known throughout Bucks County, and was Our subject traces his ancestral history back honored by the people of this county in 1889 to John Nicholas, who settled in Haycock by being elected to the office of county sur- township prior to 1745, and was one of the veyor, in which capacity he continued for a petitioners asking for township organization. period of two terms. Our subject owns in Rupp in his "Names of Thirty Thousand Buckingham township a highly improved German Immigrants," gives the names of farm of acres, 76 which he rents. In 1878 John and Jacob Nicholas as arriving at Phil- Mr. Ely became a resident of Lahaska, where adelphia September 23, 1741, in the ship he now resides, and in that year purchased "Marlborough." Jacob Nicholas was but his present home, and with him resides his seventeen years of age when he landed in sister Letitia. America. Mr. Ely is a member of the Friends' Meet- Three years prior to John Nicholas coming ;

BUCKS COUNTY 429

to America, a member of another branch of of his father, John, appears among those who the Nicholas family located here ; this was belong to Captain Stever's company of Hay- Valentine Nicholas, who was born in Germany cock militia in 1780. Christian was the pro-

April 8, 1711, and when he was twenty-seven genitor of five children, namely : Daniel,

years of age he sailed from Amsterdam in the born April 8, 1782; Joseph, April 8, 1782; ship " Davy," Captain William Patton, and Samuel, April John, the grand- 19, 1783 ;

with 180 other Palatines landed at Philadel- father of our subject, September 2, 1 793 ; and

phia October 25, 1738. As early as 1749 we Magdalena, July 19, 1797. Of the above, find him a settler in Haycock township, along Daniel married Christina Hovy, of Plumstead the head waters of the Tohickon, where he township, and of their children we have had taken up a tract of land and was carrying record of one daughter named Magdalena,

on the vocation of an agriculturist. He was born October 3, 1806. Daniel Nicholas and

a Lutheran, and was one of the founders of wife spent their entire life in Haycock town-

Keller's Church ; in 1766 he was one of the ship, where they died at an advanced age. elders of that congregation. He died October Joseph Nicholas also lived in Haycock town-

I, 1807, have attained the advanced age of ship a short time, but at the age of twenty- ninety-six years, five months and five days. one years located in Bushkill, two miles above His wife was Anna Elizabeth, and they reared Easton, Northampton County, Pa., and there

the following children : Catherine, wedded to he purchased a farm and engaged in farming. Henry Emich December mar- He married Sarah Walter, of Bethel 4, 1759 ; John Mount ried. May 29, 1769, Christina Hartzel, daugh- township, Northampton County. Samuel

ter of Michael Hartzel, of Haycock ; Abra- Nicholas married a Miss Wambold ; her father

ham, born February 17, 1752, and died Feb- was a man of considerable means, and after

ruary 22, 1762 ; Elizabeth, born February 6, his daugliter's marriage he and his son-in-law 1754, and died February 22, 1754; John located in New York City, where they en-

Henry, born February 20, 1755 ; George, gaged in the mercantile business. Samuel

born December 3, 1758 ; Daniel, born August Nicholas was the father of fifteen children,

13, 1761 ; Vailentine married Anna Maria and died at the age of ninety-one years.

Young ; and Christian, who was born August John Nicholas, the grandfather of our sub-

4, 1 764. A number of the above-named mar- ject, bought his father's farm in Haycock ried and left descendants, and to them the township and carried on general farming. families of this name still living in the vicin- He married Mary Long, a daughter of Peter ity of Keller's Church can trace their origin. and Elizabeth (Worman) Long, of Durham,

Christian Nicholas, who was probably a son and she died aged eighty-five j'^ears. He of the above-named John Nicholas, and great- passed from this earth aged thirty-two years. grandfather of our subject, was married to They were the parents of seven children, Susannah Kiefer, a native of Tinicum town- namely: John Peter, the father of our subject ship. The name of Christian as well as that Samuel, who married Margaret Stem, was :

430 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

born June 28, 1816, and died in Durham Jan- adapted for farming purposes and gardening, uary 17, 1896 ; Ivydia, born February 23, 1820, and our subject has made many improvements married Elias Weaver, and they reside at Hel- upon the same, and it ranks among the best

lertown, Pa.; John, born August 25, 1821, farms in the . county. At first our subject was wedded to a Miss Klotz, and they live in would, take his produce to the markets of the state of Ohio ; I^ewis, born February 23, Allentown and Bethlehem by boat, but he 1826; and Christian, who died near Heller- has since discontinued that route and now town, Pa., several years ago. transfers his produce to those cities by wagon. John Peter Nicholas, the father of our sub- He also ships the greater part of his produce ject, was born April 23, 1815, and died at to the markets at Easton and New York City,

Kintnersville, June 7, 1882. He .married where his vegetables and fruit command a

Samantha Foster, a daughter of Daniel and ready sale.; he has especially won distinction Martha Foster. "Grandmother Foster," as in raising cantaloupes, to the growth of which she was known in the family, had a romantic product he has devoted much time for the history: She was born in England, but in past two score of years. Mr. Nicholas ships childhood was brought by her parents to as high as 100 barrels of melons a day to the

Wyoming Valley, Pa.; there she witnessed markets, and each year he is obliged to en- the terrible massacre by the Indians in 1778, large his melon patch in order to supply the and was familiar with the early history of demand ; he also raises 400 barrels of sweet Wyoming Valley. Her daughter Samantha potatoes per year 500 bushels of onions ; 6 ; was born March 14, 18 14, and was brought to acres of sweet corn; 100 crates of strawber-

Durham by John Mills, who was a teamster, ries, and many other kinds of fruit. Our and hauled coal and merchandise between subject makes a specialty of raising not only

Wyoming and Philadelphia. He adopted her the finest fruit, but the earliest. Mr. Nicholas into his family; she died June 17, 1887. She is one of the industrious and energetic garden- the was mother of the following children ers of Bucks County, is upright and strictly John, the subject of this sketch ; Alonzo, ex- honest in all his dealings, and commands sheriff of Bucks County, and a resident of the confidence and respect of the entire com- Doylestown, whose history appears elsewhere munity. in this work; Hespert lives in the state of Mr. Nicholas was united in the bonds of

Texas ; Mrs. John Moser, of Easton, Pa. ; and matrimony with Juliann Trauger, a daughter Mrs. Mahlon Trauger, of Kintnersville. of Samuel Trauger, a prominent farmer of Our subject was taught the art of an agri- Nockamixon township, this county ; she culturist when a lad, and from early manhood died at the age of thirty-four years leaving has been a practical farmer. In 1862 he pur- the following children : Mahlon, a commis- chased the Riegel property, which adjoins the sion merchant of Danbury, Pa., married Mrs. homestead, and which consists of 51 acres. Ellen L,ear ; Samuel is a Lutheran minis- The land is rich and productive and well ter residing at Allegheny City, Pa., and he .

BUCKS COUNTY 431

wedded Elizabeth Spangler, by whom he learning the trade of a tailor; in 1848, he reared one son, John S.; Peter is a commission left his native city and moved to Cashtown, merchant residing at Philadelphia; John, Pa., and there resided about two years, when who resides on a fine farm adjoining the he became a resident of Camden, N. J. He homestead, was married to Cora George, and continued his chosen occupation throughout they are the parents of three children, —Ray- his entire life, and passed from this earth at mond, Earl, and Mabel ; and Kate married his home in Camden in April, 1875. He was John Ruth, of Bethlehem, Pa., and two chil- joined in the bonds of wedlock with Sarah dren blessed this union, Charles and Bertha. Daniels, a native of Philadelphia, Pa., and Our subject's second marriage was with Susan this union was blessed by the following nine

Weider, a daughter of Jacob Weider, of Fines- children : Annie, a resident of Camden, N. J.; ville, N. J. As a result of this union five William, a painter by trade, lives in Phila- children were born, namely: William, who delphia; Samuel, our subject, was next in

is a commission merchant at Jersey City, N. order ; Andrew, a machinist of Camden, N. to Evans, J., was wedded Emma by whom he J. ; Hartley died in infancy ; Edward, a reared two children, Paul and Jennie; Hes- prominent shipper of Camden, N. J., who pert Cyrus and I^izzie. Mr. Nich- ; ; Jacob ; ; wedded Rebecca Duncan Harvey and Frank olas is independent in his political views, and died young; and Jennie, who lives in New has served his township as school director and York City. The mother of our subject en- in other township oflSces. Religiously, he tered the world of rest in October, 1 87 1 and his family are members of the Lutheran Samuel Bassett obtained a good education

is Church ; fraternally, he a member and past in the common schools and in the high

of the I. F. of Riegels- master O. O. Lodge school at Camden, N. J., and then served an ville. Pa. apprenticeship to the machinist's trade in that city for a period of three years. He then came to Upper Makefield township, and 'AMUEL BASSETT has been a resi- embarked in farming, and has resided there dent of Upper Makefield township, ever since, with the exception of two years, Bucks County, Pa., for the past whicli were spent in Carversville, Pa., where thirty years, during which period he has he was engaged in the restaurant business. been engaged in tilling the soil, owning a He owns a nice farm of 37 acres, and runs a

of acres. He was born iii Cash- commission wagon to the city once a week fine farm 37 ; town (now known as Prospectville), Mont- he also does a large business in fertilizers, gomery County, Pa., January 24, 1850, and representing Downwood & Co. is a son of Samuel T. and Sarah (Daniels) In politics, Mr. Bassett is an ardent Demo-

Bassett. crat; socially, he is a member of the I. O. Samuel T. Bassett was born in Philadel- R. M., Tuscarora Lodge of Lambertville, phia, and resided there during his early days. N. J. In religious views, his wife is a promi- ;

432 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES nent member of the Presbyterian Church. He was a Whig, and only took an interest in Mr. Bassett and Lizzie Wesner, a native of politics such as should be taken by every Mechanicsville, Pa., were happily united in good citizen. He was a member of the So-

bonds of matrimony 28, ciety of Friends, as were his ancestors for the January 1875 ; she was bom June 9, 1853, and is a daughter many generations before him. He folded of Stephen and Emma (White) Wesner, the his hands in final rest in 1851, aged seventy- former of whom is a farmer of Upper Make- six years. He chose as his companion in field township. The home of our subject life Elizabeth Hibbs, and they reared a and wife has been blessed by the birth of two family of ten children, two of whom died children : Frank F., born January 6, 1876, in infancy ; the names of the remainder are

as follows : Henry, who was a farmer for resides at home ; and Howard Eldridge, born

1 , 1 is January 1 879, who is serving as an ap: many years, now living in retirement in prentice to the tinsmith's trade. Solebury township, and is past ninety-three

P. , father of years of age ; Jesse the our sub-

ject ; Mary, deceased, was the wife of Charles Knight; Sarah, deceased, married William

IIvLIAM L. COOPER, who is a Buckman ; Margaret, deceased, was the wife w.scion of an old and highly re- of Isaac Buckman; Susan, deceased; Caro- spected Quaker family of Bucks County, is line, deceased ; William resides on the farm

at present serving as deputy recorder of deeds in Northampton township, which was form- and makes his residence in the borough of erly owned by his father and grandfather,

Doylestown. He is a son of Jesse P. and and is one of the good substantial men of Jane (Lee) Cooper, and was born in North- that section. ampton township, Bucks County, September Jesse P. Cooper was born on the old home- 21, 1839. stead farm in 1808, and always engaged ex-

The family is of Scotch descent, and our tensively in farming, owning some 1 10 acres subject's great-grandfather was William of good land. He was a Whig for many years

Cooper, a native of Pottstown, Montgomery during the latter portion of his life he was County, who came to Bucks County, settling a stanch supporter of the Republican party. in Northampton township about 1758, being He married Jane Lee, and they became the one of the earliest pioneer settlers. Like his parents of ten children, namely: Dr. Ralph forefathers as far back as is known, he fol- L., a practicing physician of Ogontz, Mont- lowed the calling of a farmer, at which he gomery County, where he has lived for many very successful was and became a prosperous years ; Sarah, the wife of William Buckman man. His son, John Cooper, the grandfather William L., the subject of this personal his- of our subject, was born in Northampton tory ; John D., the well-known proprietor of township, where he spent his entire life en- the Windom House of Ambler, Pa. ; Eleanor, gaged in the pursuits of an agriculturist. the wife of Theodore J. Leedom of Butler, BUCKS COUNTY 433

Pa. ; Rebecca, the wife of William H. De ship, and in 1864 was drafted into service, Coiirsey of Orey, Colo.; Mary, who married but, just prior to the draft being made, re- William Ettinger of Bustleton, a suburb of ceived a kick upon the leg which seriously

Philadelphia ; Robert C, a resident of Beulah, crippled him for a time. However, he went

Colo. ; ; Jesse P., Jr., of Seattle, Wash. and to Frankford on crutches, where he hired a

James, who died iu infancy. Jesse P. Cooper substitute for #300, the first money he had was called Home in 1891, at the age of earned, although he had two signed certifi- eighty-three. cates exempting him from service on account

William I/. Cooper^was reared in Nortli- of his physical disability. He continued to arapton township, and obtained his prelim- farm in Doylestown township for four years, inary educational training in the public after which he moved to Newtown township, schools, after which he took a course in the where he also remained a period of four Newtown Academy and in the State Normal years. At the expiration of that time, he School at Millersville, passing an excellent moved to I^ower Makefield township, whence

examination and receiving a teacher's certifi- he went to Middletown township, and there cate, intending to make teaching his profes- continued tilling the soil for two years. He sion. But owing to the' fact that his two then returned to Newtown township for six older brothers were soldiers in the Union years, during which time he was called upon Army, fighting against Secession, he was to serve as county supervisor for two terms. obliged to remain at home and help support He next moved to Bensalem township, where the family. He remained upon the farm he was engaged in farming for fifteen years until he was twenty-four years of age, or and was one of the good, solid residents of

until 1863, when he enlisted in an emergency that district. July 4, 1897, he was appointed company as a member of the 169th Reg., deputy recorder of deeds, which necessitated

Pa. Vol. Inf , under Jos. B. Roberts, — this his removal to Doylestown, where he has was when I^ee made his well-known invasion since resided and faithfully performed the

into Pennsylvania, which culminated at the duties of his office. Mr. Cooper, even before battle of Gettysburg. The regiment was attaining his majority, was a warm supporter called to Hagerstown, Md., where Lee was of the Republican party and has frequently defeated and forced to leave Pennsylvania served on election boards and county com-

soil, after which it returned home as the ser- mittees. At present he is the popular candi-

vices of the men were no longer required. date of the Republican party for the office of

He re-enlisted in a company which was being recorder of deeds and all indications point to

formed at Richboro, Bucks County, but, his success. He is a man of untiring energy owing to the captain's inability to get the and honesty, and stands high in the estima- requisite number of recruits to form a com- tion of the public. pany, the project was abandoned. He soon October 10, 1862, he was united in the after moved upon a farm in Doylestown town- holy bonds of wedlock with I^avinia Thomp- 434 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

son, a daughter of Dr. Samuel. Thompson of cupation he continued to follow throughout

Richborb, Northampton township, and they his entire life, and as a citizen he was highly are the parents of the following children, respected. Mr. Young chose for his life com- who are still living: Samuel T., who is a panion Jane E. Brown, who passed from this farmer on the old homestead; M. Russell, life in February, 1897, at the age of sixty- who is engaged in farming on an adjoining seven years, leaving a family of three chil-

farm Jennie , the wife of George dren and a large circle of friends to mourn ; E. C.

McMullin of Philadelphia ; and Anna, who her death. Our subject has a brother and a

is living at home. sister, namely : Thomas, a paper hanger and painter residing at Johnsville, this county; and Flora, the wife of Frank W. Scott, a well-to-do farmer, residing in Northampton 'OHN K. YOUNG, a prominent and township. influential citizen of the borough of John K. Young possesses a fine education, Bristol, Pa., is prominently connected which he received in the public schools of with the business and industrial interests of his native township, and in the old Tennent the town, and as his reward he receives the School at Hartsville, this county, a school in esteem and confidence of the entire commu- which many of the leading business and pro- nity. The date of tlie birth of this worthy fessional men of this county obtained their

citizen was June 22, 1848, and his birthplace education. Our subject left school at the age was in Northampton township, this county. of sixteen years. The years 1864 and 1865 He is a son of Joseph and Jane E- (Brown) were spent in the drug store of Dr. John De Young, and grandson of Samuel Young. L,acy, of Philadelphia, fitting himself to be a Samuel Young, the grandfather of our sub- druggist ; in the latter \ear Mr. De Lacy died, ject, was a farmer the most of his active days and our subject completed his education in and was the owner of a fine farm in North- that line in the drug store of Dr. James P. ampton township, Bucks County; he also Milner, also of Philadelphia, remaining in conducted a hotel known as Hotel Washing- that gentleman's employ fourteen years. In ton, which was located on Bainbridge street, 1882 Mr. Young returned to his native county, Philadelphia. The greater part of his life and settled in the borough of Bristol, where was spent in the city of Philadelphia, where he embarked in the drug business on his own his death occurred; he was run down by a account and has remained in that business up train on Ninth street near Girard avenue. to the present time. He carries a complete father The of our subject, Joseph Young, line of drugs, stationery and paints, and by was born in Northampton township in 1821, his own untiring energy and industrious ef- died and in Warminster township, this county, forts has succeeded in establishing a large in 1888, at the age of sixty-seven years. His and paying patronage. vocation was. that of a shoemaker, which oc- Mr. Young is an unwavering Democrat,

JOHN R. STACKHOUSE. BUCKS COUNTY 437

and casts his- support in favor of that party near the village of TuUytown, and since the whenever the opportunity occurs, and has spring of 1896 has been living in retirement,

held both township and county offices. He but the farm is being operated by his son.

has served six years as a school director, was He was born September 15, 1820, on the ad- secretary of the board during that time, and joining farm, which was then the property

has served one term as county auditor. So- of his father, and is a son of John Stackhouse;, cially, he is a member of the Fourth of July and a grandson of Euclidus Stackhouse. lyodge. No. 196, K. of P., of Philadelphia- Our subject traces his ancestral history in

Wayne Ivodge, No. 3, I. O. O. P., also of the line of the Stackhouse family back to the Philadelphia; Bristol Castle, Knights of the Normans who came to England from Nor-

Mystic Chain; Bristol Castle, No. 409, K. of mandy with William the Conqueror, in tlie

G. E. ; Nonpareil I^odge, No. 1037, Royal eleventh century ; and to one Thomas Stack-

Arcanum ; and Oriental I

phia, and they are the parents of two chil- Their uncle, Thomas Stackhouse, Sr., came

- dren, namely : Laura May, deceased and to America in the same year with William Horace Greeley, who was born in 1872. Mr, Penn, aboard the ship "Welcome," landed and Mrs. Young are held in high esteem by at Newcastle, Del., 10 month, 27th, of that their neighbors and acquaintances; and their year, and settled on a tract of land on the home is uniformly attractive and hospitable. Neshaminy Creek, about where L,anghorne

They are active members of the Methodist is- nqWj - in- Middletown township, Bucks Church, toward the support of which they County, ,his nephews, Thomas and John, contribute with cheerful liberality.- QuT-sub- taking up adjoining-tracts of land. Thomas ject is treasurer of the board 'pf trustees. and John Stackhouse^ were both married and the fathers of large faniilies, from whom the

Stackho;.ise family in Ainerica is descended,

their -uncle, Thomas Stackhouse, Sr., having

- -OHN R. STAGKHOUSEj a retired no« issue. .

- farmer, a portrait; of wholn . is 'prcr , Thomas' Stackhouse (our subject's first an-

sented on the/rOpposite^ page, ^ is, de- cestor in this • country) represented Bucks scended from one of the old and prominent County in the Colonial Assembly of the Pro-

families of Bucks County, and is a worthy vince of Pennsylvania in the years 1711, representative of that industrial class which 1713, 1715, and was re-elected in the year has largely contributed its share toward the 1716, but refused to serve. July 27, 1688, he development and prosperity of the county. married Grace Heaton (daughter of Robert

This prominent citizen is the owner of a fine and Alice Heaton), at, Middletown Friends' farm of 190 acres, located in Bristol township. Meeting. They had a large family of chil- ;

438 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

dren, one of whom was Thomas StackhoUse, service again for two months, and served in who was a farmer and resided near Bristol. the 4th Regiment of Bucks County Militia, He also had a large family, and one of them and was discharged at the end of the service. was Euclidus Stackhouse, the grandfather of After the war was over John Stackhouse our subject. He was a carpenter by trade, returned to his native township and engaged and married Rachel Brelsford. They had in farming, and at the time of his death was the following children; Solomon; Samuel; the owner of 256 acres of highly improved

Mary John, the, father of our subject ; Wil- land. Politically he was a Whig and served ; lia:m, who died of yellow fever in 1793; Han- as one of the directors of the poor of Bucks lived near Emilie, Pa. County for a number of years. He was twice nah ; and Sarah. He

John Stackhouse was born in Bristol town- married ; his first wife was Priscilla Bunting,

ship, December 12, 1759, and while learning a daughter of Joseph Bunting, and grand- his trade was drafted in the Revolutionary daughter of William Bidgood on the mater-

service, August, 177S, for two months. He nal side. Seven children were born to them,

served in the 4th Regiment of Bucks County namely : Joshua John ; Eliza ; Samuel ;

Militia i:nder Captain John Priestly and Lieu- William; Joseph (i) ; and Joseph (2); the tenant Kennedy. They went up the Hudson two latter dying young. His second wife

River ; Mr. Stackhouse was discharged about was Anna Bowman, a daughter of Henry

November i , 1 776, two days previous to Cap- and Mary Bowman, of Falls township, and

tain Priestly 's company being taken prison- nine children blessed the home of their mar-

ers. During the summer of he volun- riage, as follows : Priscilla Jonathan ; Anna; 1777, ;

teered as a militiaman under ; Rachel ; Henry Mary R. Captain John Joseph ; ; John

Thompson ; they were encamped a part of and Rosa. John Stackhouse entered the

the time at Chestnut Hill, and during part world of rest, April 30, 1845, aged eighty-six

of the winter were out through Bucks and years ; his wife died some twenty years later, Philadelphia Counties watching the refugees in 1865, at the age of eighty-six years. and British, and assisted in taking the Hes- John R. Stackhouse received his mental sians, that were captured at the battle of training in the district schools of his native

Trenton, to Lancaster ; they passed over the township and remained under the parental King's highway, now known as the Hulme- roof until his father's death, when he pur- ville road. He again entered the service chased one-half of the in homestead property ; he the spring of 1779; the members of the or- has since bought 62 acres of adjoining land, ganization again rendezvoused at Trenton, and has successfully carried on general farm- and from there went to Stony Point, under ing up to the present time. Our subject has Gen. Joseph Reed, where they arrived on the been interested in the breeding of fine driving

morning after it taken was by General An- horses ; he also keeps a large dairy. Mr. thony Wayne. He was discharged early in Stackhouse is an honor to his chosen occu- August of that year. In 178 1, he entered the pation ; is well known throughout his section ;

BUCKS COUNTY 439

of the county ; and commands the respect and now Wilmington, Clinton County, that was good-will of a host of acquaintances. In poli- purchased by their father about the year

tics our subject has always been a supporter 18 1 2. While on a surveying expedition for

of the Republican party since its existence, the United States Government, John was and in 1879 was elected justice of the peace taken prisoner by a band of hostile Indians, of Bristol township and held the same until who took him west of the Wabash River.

189S, when he refused therenomination. He While he was a prisoner, he made the ac- also served as a school director for some time; quaintance of an English-speaking Indian was often delegated to county and township who was a member of the Delaware Tribe. conventions; and served on the grand jury a This Indian, finding that Mr. Stackhouse was number of times, as well as on the United from Pennsylvania, used his influence and States jury. Fraternally, Mr. Stackhouse is secured his freedom. a member of Bristol Ivodge, No. 25, F. & A. M., having been connected with the Order since 1856: he was master of his lodge in 1868, and has been its chaplain for a number \«^/^iILUAM AVEYARD. Among the of years. Our subject is a director of the ^ Vs enterprising industries of Doyles- Philadelphia & Bucks County Fire Insurance town, Bucks County, is the leather manufac- Company. turing establishment, owned by the gentle- Mr. Stackhouse was twice united in the man whose name heads the above lines, who

bonds of matrimony. He married his first is one of the prominent and successful citi-

wife, Mary Ann Subers, daughter of John zens of that town. He is of English birth

and Anna (Booz) Subers, January 27, 1853; and parentage, his birth having occurred at

they reared a family of seven children, name- Bradford, Yorkshire, England, August 20,

ly : Edward S. Joseph S. ; Henry S.; John ; 1859.

R. and William K. (twins) ; Thomas H. He is mainly self-educated, having at- and Anna M. His first wife passed from this tended school only until he was eight years

earth, June 17, 1881, and on February 13, of age, and then at that youthful age started

1 884, he wedded Rebecca Subers, a sister of out to battle for himself. He found employ- his first wife. All of Mr. Stackhouse's chil- ment in the worsted manufacturing estab- dren are living except Joseph S., who died lishment in his native place, and worked in June 24, 1878. Mr. Stackhouse has practi- the same factory until he attained his major-

.cally given up the active duties of life and is ity. Being unsuited with the position he spending his latter days in retirement, en- had attained in his native country, and be- joying the fruits of his early toil. lieving that America afforded better oppor-

Our subject's three half-brothers, John, tunities for an ambitious young man, he left Joshua, and Elisha, went to the state of Ohio, England in the latter part of 1880, and

and settled on a section of land, near what is landed in New York City January 2, i88i. ;

440 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

He immediately proceeded to the city of town ; and the Overseer and Managers Asso- Philadelphia, but failing to find employment ciation of Philadelphia. September, 1883, at his trade, and after working at various he was united in marriage with Emily Field- jobs in that city, he moved to Providence, house, a native of Bradford, England, and

R. I., where he followed his trade until 1884. they are the parents of one child, Bertha. He next became a resident of Bridgeport, Montgomery County, Pa., where he spent three years working at his trade; in 1888 our subject embarked in the tannery business on JOHNSON BEANS, one of the repre- his own account, and by the exercise of econ- sentative business men of the borough

omy succeeded in amassing a small fortune. ' of Doylestown, was sheriff of this

In i88g, he located in Doylestown, and pur- county from 1891 to 1894, and is now a direc- chased a tannery, which had been estab- tor and stockholder of the Doylestown Demo- lished some forty years. In 1891 he domi- crat. He is a son of John C. and Elizabeth ciled his family in Doylestown, and assumed Y. (Yerkes) Beans, and was born in Warmin- charge of the plant, which is located on ster township, Bucks County, October 18, North Main street; it is a 2 story, brick 1836. building, 60 by 60 feet, and it has an output The Beans family is one of the oldest and of about ;^25,ooo worth of leather per year, highly respected families of Bucks County, and the goods are shipped throughout the with whose advancement and welfare it has United States. He manufactures raw hides, been closely connected for many years. known to tanners as apron leather ; he also Thomas Beans, the grandfather of our sub- makes picker leather and belting, and has ject, was a native of Warminster township, two salesmen on the road all the time. The this county, where he conducted an inn and of this success establishment is solely due to carried on farming operations for many the hustling ability of our subject, who, by years. Stock-raising was his specialty, being his honest ways of dealing, has built up an a keeper and breeder of fine blooded horses, enviable trade and has won the esteem and and he became a very prosperous man. The confidence of the entire community. latter years of his life were spent at Holmes- Mr. Aveyard is a strong Republican, and burg, Philadelphia County, where he owned although he takes an active interest in local a large farm upon which the House of Cor- politics, he has never consented to hold any rection is now situated. He was an ardent public position; in religious views, he favors Democrat and was often called upon to fill the Episcopal Church. Socially, he is a local ofiices. He was a member of the Bap- member of Ivodge No. 90, F. & A. M. tist Church of Southampton, which was one Doylestown Chapter, No. R. 270, A. M.; of the old school. His first wife's maiden I^ehigh I/)dge, A. O. U. W., of Philadelphia; name was Craven, by whom he reared four Brotherhood of the Union, No. 52, of Doyles- children, the father of our subject being the BUCKS COUNTY 441

second born. He formed a second alliance family and is a daughter of Harman Yerkes, with Anna Johnson, Mr. Beans closed his the grandfather of Judge Yerkes, a record of

eyes in final sleep at Holmesburg, in 1844, whose career also appears in this Book of at the ripe old age of seventy-five years. Biographies. This happy union resulted in John C. Beans was born in Warminster the birth of three daughters and six sons,

township in 18 1.2, and lived there all of his one of whom was J. Johnson, the gentleman life, dying in 1874, aged sixty-two years. whose name heads this sketch. his At an early age he turned his attention to J. Johnson Beans was reared upon agricultural pursuits, and, by keeping abreast father's farm in Warminster township, where of the latest improved methods of farming, he obtained his intellectual training in the he was eminently successful and became one public schools, Lollor Academy of Hatboro, of the most extensive farmers in his section and the Tennent School of Hartsville. Upon of the county. He was a man of rare judg- leaving school at the age of eighteen years, ment and sagacity in matters of a business he took up the occupation of a farmer as a

nature, and was associated with many enter- means of earning a competency, following it prises, whose ultimate aim was to better the with good results until 1890, when he was condition of the residents of the community elected upon the Democratic ticket to the

and to elevate the standing of the county. office of county sherifi: This necessitated

From the time of its organization, he was a his removal to Doylestown, where he resided member of the Willow Grove Turnpike until his term of three years expired. He Company and of the Marlboro Turnpike performed the duties of sheriflF in a faithful Company, of which he was also president. and conscientious manner, for which he was

He was also a conspicuous figure in organiz- highly commended by all concerned, and ing and building the North East Branch of gained the favor of many of his former op-

the Pennsylvania Railroad, which has re- ponents. His term having expired, in 1894, sulted in vast good to this section. He was he returned to his former home to engage in

widely known throughout the county and tilling the soil, which he continued to do for was a member of the Union Troop of Bucks two years, when he returned to Doylestown County,, having the honor of riding by the and became manager of the Doylestown side of I/afayette, when that illustrious son Democrat, In 1890, the Doylestown Demo- of France was being escorted to the city crat was merged into a stock company, and limits of Philadelphia, in 1824. In politics, our subject became a director and a stock- he afl&Hated with the Democratic party, but holder in which capacity he still acts. He was not an aspirant to political distinction. assumed the duties of manager in 1896, but Religiously, he was a member of the Presby- after a short time resigned. Politically, he terian Church, of which he was a trustee and is an active and influential Democrat, and a liberal supporter. He married Elizabeth has many times served as delegate to county, Y. Yerkes, who comes of a distinguished district, and state conventions. He was a ;

442 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

school director in Warminster township for an industrious and energetic farmer, and was ten years, and served as justice of the peace well known throughout the township as being for twelve years. a very practical and progressive farmer. His

In i86r, Mr. Beans was joined in wedlock property is now in the possession of his son- with Jennie H. Baird, of Hartsville, and in-law, J. M. Rush. Mr. Moyer was joined in they are the happy parents of four children, the bonds of wedlock with Elizabeth George, namely: Frank, who is engaged in business a daughter of Abraham George, of Milford

in California ; Carrie, who is living at home township, and this union was blessed by the with her parents; Harman, a music teacher following children : Mary, the wife of J. M. and an expert piano tuner of Easton, Pa.; Rush, who is farming on the homestead and J. Bellville, a commercial traveler of Emma, the wife of John Bergstresser ; Abra-

Philadelphia. Socially, he is a- member of ham G., the subject of this sketch ; Daniel

W. K. Bray lyodge. No. 410, F. & A. M., was married to Maggie Souder ; I/izzie was

officer. is wife of being a charter member and a past wedded to J. M. Stauffer ; Kate the

H. C. Beidler ; Addie was united in marriage died in boy- with J. Fluck ; and Joseph, who hood. The father of our subject entered the (^>r'BRAHAM GEORGE MOYER, a world of rest at the age of forty-five years. t^ highly respected citizen of Milford Abraham George Moyer prepared himself ^^ '= V_^ Square, Pa., is the proprietor and for the battles of life in the public schools owner of the Milford Square Creamery and and at the Normal School at West Chester, the Rushing Springs Creamery, both of Pa. After finishing his schooling, he engaged

which are located in Milford township, in teaching for some time, but thinking that Bucks County, and situated in the heart of a mercantile business was more suited to his one of the best farming and dairy communi- tastes, in 1891 he rented the general store at ties in Bucks County. He was born in Hill- Milford Square, which was owned by C. R.

town township, this county, April 4, 1867, Himmelwright & Son, and our subject con- and is a son of Joseph H. and Elizabeth ducted the same with marked success until

(George) Moyer, and grandson of Samuel 189S, when the store was sold to H. H. Moyer, who was a well-to-do farmer of this Erdman. He then purchased the Milford county. Square Creamery, which was owned by Joseph H. Moyer, the father of our subject, Henry George; he has enlarged and im-

was born and reared to manhood on his proved the creamery, and its patronage has father's farm in Hilltown township, and when also been greatly increased, there being now he attained his majority became a resident of over 80 regular customers. As the business Plumstead township, this county, where he proved successful to our subject, in 1 897 he purchased a farm and carried on agricultural built the Rushing Springs Creamery, which

pursuits the rest of his active days. He was now has 52 regular customers, and is steadily BUCKS COUNTY 443

on the increase. Our subject makes a choice farming in Newtown township, and at the grade of dairy butter, which he sends to the time of his death, which was in 1873, he was markets of Philadelphia, where it always living in retirement at the home of ,the sub- commands a ready sale. Mr. Moyer pays ject of this sketch. His union with Eliza strict attention to business, which, co.upled Doan resulted in the following issue: Thomas,

with his honest and straightforward methods Robert, Henry, and George, all deceased ; of dealing, has secured for him not only a Peter B., the subject of this sketch ; Charles, large and paying patronage, but the respect resident lives a of Camden, N. J. ; Benjamin

and confidence of the entire community. in Chicago, 111. is the widow of ; Jane David Our subject chose for his companion Han- Drummond, and they are residents of Wil-

nah Fretz, a daughter of Levi Fretz, a resi- mington, Del. ; and Howard, who also lives dent of Plumstead township, this county, and in Wilmington, Del. The mother of our

a family of three children has been born to subject departed this life in 1 869. this union, namely: Willis F.; Pearl F.; and Peter B. Woolsey and his brothers and Edna F. Mr. Moyer, in his political belief, sisters were educated in the common schools, sides with the Republican party. Religi- and at seventeen years our subject went to ously, he and his family are devoted members Byberry, Philadelphia County, Pa., where he of the Mennonite Church. spent eight years working at the trade of a

wheelwright ; he then became a resident of Upper Makefield township, and has since given his undivided attention to farming and vETER B. WOOLSEY. Tilling the stock-raising. His farm is rich and produc- soil has been the chief occupation tive, and ranks among the best in the town-

of Peter B. Woolsey since his early ship ; our subject is a kind neighbor and good

manhood, in which calling he has been re- citizen, possessing the confidence of all who markably successful, now owning lOO acres know him. of highly cultivated land, located in the Mr. Woolsey and Violette Van Horn were

heart of one of the best farming communities united in marriage February 29, i860; she in Bucks County. He has been prominently was born in Middletown township, this coun-

identified with the growth and prosperity of ty. May S, 1828, and is a daughter of Garrett Upper Makefield township since his marriage and Elizabeth (Randall) Van Horn, both of in i860. He was born in Newtown town- whom are now deceased. Mr. Van Horn was ship, this county, August 25, 1835, and is a a farmer of Middletown township, and later son of Benjamin and Eliza (Doan) Woolsey. of Upper Makefield township. A family of Benjamin Woolsey was also a native of four children was born to this happy union, Bucks County, Pa., and his first occupation namely: Elizabeth, the wife of Elmer Har- was that of a shoemaker, which he had learned vey, a farmer of Upper Makefield township,

during his boyhood days ; he then followed and they are the parents of two children. ; ;

444 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Clarence and Elva ; Anna died in infancy aged eighty-eight years. He was joined in

Ivcttie also died in cliildhood days ; and marriage with Catherine Blihler, by whom

Harry S., a farmer of Upper Makefield town- he reared the following children: Hannah,, ship, who married Clara Van Pelt, by whom David, Jacob, Sally, Daniel, Henry, and Pe-

he has one child, Irvin. Politically, Mr. ter. His first wife dying young, he formed a

Woolsey is a stanch Democrat. Religiously, second marriage with Hannah Blihler, a sis-

he and his wife are devoted members of the ter to his first wife, and widow of a Mr. Sholl. Thompson Memorial Church of Solebury Jacob Trumbauer, the father of our subject,

township, and our subject is elder of the was born in Milford township, this county,

same, while his son is superintendent of the and his boyhood days were spent working in Sunday School. a wagon shop, learning the trade of a wheelwright; later he started in business on his own account in the village of Trumbauers- ville, and had followed that occupation but a (^Yt'ARON H. TRUMBAUER, who is short time when death claimed him. Mr /A descended from one of the early fami- Trumbauer was twice united in marriage, his >' « V ' lies of Bucks County, Pa., is jus- first wife was a Miss Aulthouse who died tice of the peace of the village of Trumbauers- young, and to this union twins were born, ville, having being elected to that office in both of whom died young; his second wife 1896, and is recognized as one of the enter- was Rachel Haring by whom he reared a son prising business men of that community. and daughter, namely : Aaron H., our subject Our subject is a son of Jacob and Rachel and Sophia, the wife of M. B. Kline. Our (Hating) Trumbauer, grandson of Henry and subject's father resided in Trumbauersville, Catherine (Blihler) Trumbauer, and great- in the house which is now the home of Jo- grandson of Michael Trumbauer. seph W. Reiter; religiously, he and his fam- Michael Trumbauer was born in Richland ily were members of the I/Utheran Church. township, Bucks County, Pa., and resided Aaron H. Trumbauer received his educa- there all his life, pursuing the vocation of an tional training in the schools of his native agriculturist; his death occurred at the age township, and while yet a boy began to leani of ninety years. He was the father of the the trade of a cigarmaker and packer, and following family of children : John, Henry, followed that occupation a number of years, Andrew, and Mrs. Peter Heist. Henry Trum- when he was elected county auditor, which bauer also was born in Richland town- position he retained for a period of six years. ship, and was reared to agricultural pursuits, Our subject has served sixteen years as secre- which he made his life occupation ; in addi- tary of the Horse Insurance & Detective Com- tion to carrying on general farming, he fol- pany of Trumbauersville, and in 1896 was lowed the trade of a shoemaker, which he elected justice of the peace, which office he had learned in early manhood. He died is at present filling. Upon the death of his

JOHN M. PURDY. ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 447

mother, he purchased her residence, which Purdy, an Irish Presbyterian, who immi-! he remodeled, and then built a new office and grated to this country in 1740 and took up a barn. As an honest man and a good citizen, large tract of land on Pennypack Creek Mr. Trumbauer occupies a place in the front later he returned to his native town in Ire- ranks of that class in the community, and land and wedded Grissey Dunlap and imme- has been an important factor in the building diately brought his wife to America and again up of his township and county. Mr. Trum- started in agricultural pursuits. He lost his

bauer owns a small farm of 30 acres, which life at an election in Newtown. In those

is'well improved and highly cultivated, and days it was the custom to make an election

it is farmed by our subject and his son. day a day of sports, and as he was crossing Aaron H. Trumbauer was wedded to Ca- the race track, not knowing there was a race therine Heist, a daughter of Joseph Heist, of going on at the time, he was struck by a

Rockhill township, this county, and they are large white horse and instantly killed. It is the parents of a family of nine children, said that the night before the election, his namely: Oswin; Jennie, who was married wife dreamed that a white horse tore down a

December 24, 1898, to Harry M. Detweiler, part of their house, while he dreamed that

of Trumbauersville ; Harvey, deceased ; Her- while Ije was driving, his horse turned from bert, who assists his father; I/izzie, deceased; the road into a cemetery and began rolling.

Addie ; Ida ; Seth ; and Nettie. Fraternally, Their' dreams were related to each other the

he is a member of the K. of P. , Lodge No. next day, and the same day he attended the

372, and the K. of G. E., Castle No. 165, election with the above results. They reared

and passed the chairs of both orders and is a family of several sons and daughters. treasurer of the latter organization.. Reli- William Purdy, the grandfather of our sub- giously, he and his wife are members of the ject, was once prothonofary of Bucks County Lutheran Church. In politics, our subject he was -also, a soldier in the War of 1812. has always been a stanch Democrat. His wife was Mary Folwell, and they were the parents of four sons and several daugh-

ters, namely : William John Joseph ; and ; ; Thomas. His wife died in 1848. 'OHN M. PURDY, the popular and Thomas Purdy, the father of our subject, genial landlord of the old historical was born in Southampton township in 1801,

Red Lion Inn on Bristol turnpike in and began life as a farmer ; later he engaged Bensalem township, Bucks County, and ex- in the hotel business, purchasing the Green sheriflf of the county, was born in Doylestown Tree Hotel at Doylestown. He next em- in the Green Tree Hotel, of which his father barked in the mercantile business for a num- was proprietor, the date of his birth being ber of years at Richboro, but soon took up

January 17, 1833. farming again in Southampton township.

He is the fourth generation from John He took an active interest in the Bucks ;

448 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Comity militia, of which he was colonel ; in 1897, he took possession of his present hotel, politics he was very prominent, and served the Red I^ion Hotel. This hotel is one of the from 1842 to 1844 as sheriff of Bucks County. oldest hotels in this country; according to He was a member of the Baptist Church of the "Bucks County History," gotten up by

Southampton, and, was trustee many years. W. J. Buck, in 1850, and according to Scull's He was united in the bonds of matrimony "Maps of 1770," this hotel was first estab- with Elizabeth Cornell, born in Northampton lished by an Englishman named Phelps Ames, township in 181 1, aud a daughter of John S. and was conducted by his widow after his

Cornell. The mother of our subject died in death. It was erected in 1750, and is a large, 1887. They were the parents of six children, substantial brick, the brick being brought as follows: Mary J.; John M., whose name from England. In 1781 Washington's army, heads these lines; Elizabeth A.; Matilda; on the march to Yorktown to attack Cornwal-

Amanda ; and Kate. lis, encamped there over night ; many of the John M. Purdy was reared in Davisville, most notable men of the colonial days stopped Southampton township, and attended the at this hotel, the most eminent of whom common schools of that vicinity, and spent were Messrs. Bowdoin, Cushing, Samuel one year in the military school at China Hall, Adams, John Adams and Robert T. Paine, in Bristol township. Upon the death of his who dined there August 29, 1787, they being father he went to live with his aunt, Mercy en route for Philadelphia, to attend the First

Warner, with whom he remained until 1849, Continental Congress. Again on December

when he was apprenticed to the carpenter's 9, 177s, and October 13, 1776, John Adams trade and followed the same at Somertou, stopped at the Red Lion Inn.

Pa., about ten years; he then began farming Socially, our subject is a member of the on the old Vanzant farm, near that town, Masonic Order, Frankford Lodge, No. 292 ; remaining there until 1867, when he bought and the I. O. R. M. of Doylestown. Our the New Hope Hotel, conducting the same subject's first wife was Sarah Roberts, of until the spring of 1873. In that year he Somerton, a daughter of John and Rebecca was elected sheriff of Bucks County, the only Roberts, and five children were born to them : time in the history of the county, where Rebecca, the wife of Robert M. Yardley; father and son were elected to the same office. Thomas, assistant passenger agent of the At the expiration of his term, in 1876, he en- Long Branch Division of the Pennsylvania gaged in the lumber and coal business at Railroad; Harry R., a physician of New Doylestown, and in 1878 bought the old York City ; Cora May, the wife of Edward Cowell House; five years later he sold out McElroy, of Beverly, N. J.; and Frank V., and took possession of the Fountain House, of Jersey City, who is conductor on a dining where he remained ten years. After filling car on the P. & R. R. R. Our subject's the office of postmaster for four years, being second wife, Carrie, is a daughter of Chris- appointed by Cleveland in 1893, on April i. tian and Cordelia Pearson of New Hope, Pa. BUCKS COUNTY 449

five children have been born to them: George Our subject is a son of John and Ann (Van

S. ; Charles C; Anna V.; John M., Jr.; and Horn) Yardley, both natives of Bucks County.

J. W. Closson. Mr. Purdy's portrait is shown The great-great-grandfather, Thomas Yard- on another page. ley, was the original immigrant and founder

of the family in this country ; he came from

England at a very early date, and made a

settlement in what is now Lower Makefield "ON. ROBERT M. YARDIvEY, whose township, and Yardleyville was named after home is in Doylestown, has met him. Our subject's grandfather, Mahlon

with the most marked success in Yardley, was a farmer all his life. His son, life in practicing law in the courts of Bucks John, also followed agricultural pursuits, and

County. He is also prominent as a business dealt in coal and lumber in Yardleyville. He

' man, politician and statesman. He was born was a very prominent man in the county,

in Yardley, this county, October 9, 1850, and and had hosts of friends. He served one term is of English descent. He was educated in the State Assembly, and was a justice of and reared in his native place, receiving an the peace of his township for twenty-five

academic training, after which he engaged years. He died in 1873, and was survived for a short while in the coal and lumber busi- by his wife, who lived until 1883, and then ness with his father, John Yardley. At the joined those gathered on the farther shore. age of eighteen years he began to prepare The subject of this sketch was appointed

himself for a career in the legal profession, a notary public in 1877, by Governor Hart- and obtained his elementary knowledge of ranft, and filled that office until 1880, when law in the office of his brother, Mahlon he resigned to accept the office of district

Yardley. He was admitted to the bar in attorney of the county, to which office he had 1872, and at once began to practice in Doyles- been elected in the November election of the town, whither he removed and located. He previous year. He went to the National Re-

soon proved himself to be an able and strong publican Convention held in Chicago in 1884, lawyer, and merited the confidence that was as a delegate, and in 1886 was elected on the early placed in his ability by those who knew Republican ticket to the Fiftieth Congress him. The courts of Bucks County know no from the Seventh Pennsylvania Congres-

more eloquent pleader, and it can almost be sional District, composed of Montgomery said that every jury he addresses he takes by County, and all that part of Bucks County storm, such is the force of his arguments not included in the Tenth District. In this and the splendid manner in which they are election he received a majority of 1,299 votes grouped and presented to his audience. His over the Democratic and Prohibition candi- addresses, whether in the courts or before dates. In May, 1891, Mr. Yardley was ap- political gatherings, are always to the point pointed receiver of the Keystone National and incisive. Bank of Philadelphia, and his labors in 'ISO BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

winding up the affairs of that institution tled in l/ower Milford township, I/chigh proved so generally satisfactory that in Au- County, and successfully pursued the voca-

gust, 1894, he was appointed receiver of the tion of a farmer all his life. He passed from Spring Garden National Bank of Philadel- this life when in his eighty-sixth year. He

phia. He is actively interested in a number was joined in the bonds of wedlock with of semi-public enterprises that have benefited Catherine Glick, and four children blessed Doylestown and Bucks County to no small this union, namely: Ephraim, a stonemason

extent. In this connection he is a director and farmer of I^ehigh County, was united in of the Doylestown Electric Light Company, marriage with Elizabeth Newmoyer; Mary

Doylestown Gas Company, and Bucks Coun- is the wife of Israel Larosch ; George, form-

ty Trust .Company. Socially, he is well liked erly a shoemaker, and later a hotel-keeper, and very popular, and holds a membership was at the time of his death residing at I^ine

in the Masonic Order, and I. O. O. F. Lexington, Bucks County.,—his wife was ' In 1874, Mr. Yardley was united in mar- Judith Fredrick; and Joshua D. K., whose riage with Clara Bell, whose death occurred name heads this sketch. in 1883. Several years after this sad event, Joshua D. K. Reinhart possesses a fine

he formed a second union with Mrs. Reba education ; after attending the district schools

M. James, daughter of Ex-sheriiBF John M. of his native township, he began life by

Purdy, and widow of I,evi Lt- James. Neither teaching in L,ehigh and Berks Counties. He of these marriages resulted in any issue. Our then became a clerk in a general merchan- subject and wife have a beautiful home in dise store in Lehigh County, and soon be- Doylestown, and take delight in entertaining came quite familiar with that line of busi- their friends, who unite in ascribing to them ness ; by the exercise of economy he suc- the finest qualities of mind and soul. ceeded in laying aside a portion of his salary, and in 1855 went to Lambert, Pa., where he conducted a mercantile store for two years. The next eleven years were spent at Trum- 'OSHUA D. K. REINHART, ex-sheriff bauersville, "Bucks County, Pa., where he of Bucks County, and a prominent engaged in a like business, meeting with the and influential citizen of Quakertown, best of success. who is now enjoying the fruits of his early Our subject was one of the valued mem- life, has fought his way to success by the ex- bers of Trunibauersville,' where he served fif- ercise of his own industry and perseverance. teen years as justice of the peace. In 1875 he He was born in South Whitehall township, ran for sheriff of Bucks County on the Demo-, L,ehigh Co., Pa., Dec. 16, 1827, and is a son cratic ticket, and was elected over the oppos- of George M. and Catherine (Glick) Reinhart. ing candidates by an overwhelming majority^ George M. Reinhart, who was a native of which is only one more proof of his popu- Greenwich township, Berks County, Pa., set- larity, arid the esteem in which he is held by BUCKvS COUNTY 451

the citizens of Bucks County. He also served the major portion of his active days, and as postmaster of Trumbauersville. In Au- busied himself in farming labors all his life, gust, 1883, he became a resident of Quaker- and was very successful in that occupation. town, where he bought the Joshua Hess As a result of his union with Mary Switzer,

property, and has since lived in retirement, were born : William the following children ; enjoying a well-earned competency. Mr. George; Samuel; Mary; Sarah; Jacob; and Reinhart has served many years as a director Robert A., the subject of this personal his- of the Quakertown National Bank, and as tory. Mr. Shimer died at the advanced age treasurer of the Milford & Richmond Turn- of eighty-six years, and his death was

pike Co. ; and there is no doubt but what mourned by a large circle of acquaintances, our subject has settled more estates than any who respected him for his many excellent

other man in Bucks County. October 24, traits of character. The demise of our sub- 1854, Mr. Reinhart was married to Susanna ject's mother occurred in her seventy-sixth

Hofford, a daughter of Daniel and Susanna year ; she was not only a kind and loving (Mangle) Hofford, and they are the parents mother and faithful wife, but was a lady

of four children, namely : Ambrose died at highly respected for her kindness of heart. the age of seven years; Erasmus died, aged Mr. and Mrs. Shimer were devoted and con-

eighteen months ; Vessie, deceased, was the sistent members of the Lutheran Church.

wife of Frank Eagle ; and Hercules, who is Robert A. Shimer was but a mere lad of a clerk in the Quakertown National Bank, twelve years when he made his home with

and a prominent citizen of that borough. his brother-in-law John L,. Riegel of Riegels- subject is a and liberal sup- Our member ville, N. J., and it was in the public schools porter of the Lutheran Church. His es- of that place that our subject received his teemed wife attends the German Reformed intellectual training. His youthful days were Church. also spent in the general store of his brother-

in-law, where he clerked for a. period of five and a half years, after which he was given

kOBERT A. SHIMER is a man whose the entire management of the store. Later natural abilities, strict attention to Mr. Shimer was given an interest in the c business and pleasing personality, business, and in 1858 Mr. John L. Riegel have most deservedly gained for him a prom- disposed of his entire stock and our subject inent place. among the successful business became sole proprietor ; the place was then men of Riegelsville, Pa. This prominent known as Riegel's Mills and Mr. Shimer and influential citizen was born and reared also kept the post office there. In 1868 the at Ereemansburg, Northampton County, Pa., name of the post office was changed to Rie- and. is a son of John and Mary (Switzer) gelsville, N. J. When our subject first en- Shimer. gaged in the merchandise business, his store John Shimex resided at Shimersyille, Pa.,. occupied the front part of a large store room. 452 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

since the election of Presi- while in the rear a family resided; as the gelsville, N. J., Mr. Shimer is treasurer of trade steadily increased it was necessary to dent Buchanan. Loan Association of Riegels- increase the stock, consequently more store the Building & in the Fulton Pulp & room was required, hence our subject moved ville, and is interested of Fulton, N. Our sub- the family to another part of the building Paper Company J. in his views, pleasant and himself occupied the rear of the store ject is broad and liberal social cir- this t(5 those he meets in business and room with part of his stock ; even with indulgent to his employees. enlargement it soon proved to be much too cles, and small, and in 189S Mr. B. Riegel proposed to build a new store house, and would arrange

for the construction of a new brick building, is a con- 30 by 90 feet. Accordingly, in the same g)| ARVEY W. STONEBACK year, a three-story building with plate glass ^\ tractor and proprietor of a planing >> mill, which is located at the corner front was erected ; it is heated throughout by y, ^ Pa. steam and is equipped with electric lights of Front and Strawn streets, Quakertown,

and elevators. The first floor is stocked with The subject of our sketch is one of those general merchandise, and in the center of whose work is well done and who is possessed

this floor is a beautiful winding staircase of a natural taste and an eye to symmetry. that leads to the second floor, which is also The evidence of this is observable in the stocked with everything necessary to com- structures that have gone up under his eye in Bed- plete a general store ; our subject also occu- and superintendence. He was born pies the third floor and the large basement minster township, this county, September n,

which is under the entire building. It is by 1844, and is a son of John T. and Elizabeth far the most complete general store in the (Weisel) Stoneback, and grandson of John

section, and it is the only one of its kind for Stoneback.

miles around. Mr. Shimer is a man of Steinbach was tlie way our subject's great- sterling integrity, and enjoys the confidence grandfather, Henry Steinbach, spelled the

and esteem of a wide circle of patrons. Our name ; Henry, who was born in Germany in subject conducts the business on a commend- 1750, immigrated to America, and settled in able policy of fair dealings and honest repre- Dublin, Bucks County, Pa., where he engaged sentations in every instance. in farming. He died in 1795 and was buried Mr. Shimer was united in marriage with in Keller's Churchyard in Bedminster town-

Sabella Baker, daughter of Warren and Ann ship. His children were : John, George^

Baker of Roxbury, N. J., and she was born Jacob, Christian, and Mrs. Fox. John Stone- in Northampton County, Pa. One child has back, our subject's grandfather, was born at been born to this union, Florence h- With Dublin, Bedminster township, this county, in

the exception of Cleveland's Administration 1782 ; he was a farmer all his life and followed our subject has served as postmaster of Rie- that occupation in Rockhill, Haycock and I ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 453

Milford townships, dying in the latter town- business houses and dwellings in the borough, ship in 1864. He was joined in marriage especially in the lower end. Mr. Stoneback with Elizabeth Tresler, who died at an ad- successfully carried on that business until vanced age. They were the parents of the 1880, when he purchased a portion of the following children : Robert; David; Frank; Strawn estate, which is located on the corner

Henry Jacob T., our subject's father of Front and Strawn streets ; there he built a ; ; John

Sarah ; Mary ; and Eliza. Mr. and Mrs. planing mill, and has since been engaged in

Stoneback were members of the I,utlreran the manufacture of doors, sashes, blinds, stair-

Church. John T. Stoneback, a native of cases and all other kinds of house furnishings. Bucks County, Pa., during his early manhood Our subject employs some 20 skilled mechan- learned the occupation of a carpenter, and ics, whose work gives the best of satisfaction, followed that trade in Bedminster and Milford and trade not only comes from Quakertown, townships a number of years. Later he em- but also from many of the surrounding vil- barked in the mercantile business, and con- lages. This planing mill is the only one of ducted a store where J. H. Shelly now has its kind in the northern section of the county,

his store ; after he sold his store he bought a and is one of the successful industries of farm in Rockhill township, and successfully Bucks County. carried on general farming until he moved to Mr. Stoneback was imited in the bonds of Quakertown, where he lived in retirement, matrimony with Phcebe Brown, a daughter

enjoying a well-earned competency. He died of John Brown, of Ohio ; she died at the age in 1897, at the age of seventy-nine years. He of forty-five years, leaving the following chil- was wedded to Elizabeth Weisel, a daughter dren : George, a resident of the state of Ohio of George Weisel, and she passed from this Susan, the wife of John Aaron, of Quaker- life, aged sixty-eight years. She was the town, and they are the parents of three

mother of the following children : Leidy and children, George, Winefred, and Irene ; and

Emma, deceased ; David, a resident of Perka- Chauncey E., chief burgess of Quakertown, deceased who resides who married Laura Greinswig, and sie, Pa. ; Jane, ; James, has a in Quakertown ; Lucy Ann, the wife of A. family of three children, Grace,. Henry and Egolf, of Perkasie; George and John, de- Marion. Our subject, after the death of his

a well-to-do citizen of Quaker- first wife, married Kate R. Hartman, ceased ; Jacob, a daugh-

town ; and Amandis, of Rich Hill, Pa. Our ter of Francis and Catherine R. (Winsted) subject's parents were active members of the Hartman. Francis Hartman was a son of Lutheran Church. Thomas and Elizabeth Hartman, and was Our subject worked with his father in early born in Rockhill township, this county; in life, learning the trade of a carpenter ; upon early life he was a cooper, but later was en- attaining his majority he located in Quaker- gaged in the real estate and hotel business. town and engaged in the contracting bus- Locating in Quakertown, he purchased the iness, and has erected some of the finest Eagle Hotel, which he practically rebuilt and ;

454 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

operated it the rest of his life ; he owned con- trade of a watchmaker all his life. After siderable real estate in Philadelphia. His the death of her husband, Mrs. Reeder mar-

death occurred at the age of fifty-eight years. ried Joseph Carton, and one child was born

His wife died aged seventy-one years, leaving to them, namely : Rynaldo, who married

the following children : Elizabeth, the wife Lottie Gleason, and is now engaged in farm- of Aaron F. Sloves, of Quakertown ing in New Jersey. ; Joseph married Celesta E. Woodring, both of whom Orlenzo C. Reeder after obtaining a com- are now deceased, and they were the parents mon school education, was apprenticed to the of seven children, —William, assistant post- miller's trade and continued in the capacity master of Quakertown, Oliver, Robert, Frank, of apprentice three years and four months. Scott, and Martin and Lamar, who reside with Becoming then a journeyman miller, he went

our subject ; Sarah, deceased ; Kate R., the to Newtown, where he entered the employ

wife of our subject ; and Amanda, deceased. of T. H. Fetter, proprietor of the Newtown

Mr. Stoneback is a member of the I. O. R. M. Mills ; later he worked for C. Posler & Son

K. of P.; Marion Circle; and is a member of Ogontz, Montgomery County, Pa., re-

and past grand of the I. O. O. F. and Encamp- maining in the firm's employ one year.

ment. Our subject is a man greatly esteemed After attending college six months, he again

in his community, and is one of the solid took up his trade as a miller, and some two citizens of Quakertown. years later purchased the mills now known as the Ashland Mills, which he operated until 1888, when he moved to Chelton Hills, Pa., where he ran an electric plant. Two RLENZO C. REEDER is a prominent ^ years later, he returned to Newtown, and has

and energetic business man of New- since been engaged in all kinds of milling town, Bucks County, Pa., and has and grinding in the mills that he purchased been engaged in the milling business the in 1887. The mills, which are operated greater part of his active career. He is one by both water and steam power, have been of the best examples of self-made men in the greatly improved and remodeled by Mr. county, and all his worldly possessions have Reeder. He also owns a small farm and is been gathered together by his untiring energy engaged in the poultry business, raising and perseverance. This enterprising and broilers and ducks for the market, and does public-spirited gentleman was born at Penn's a good business in that line.

Park, this county, i, April 1864, and is a son Politically, our subject is a stanch Repub- of Elias and Maria L. (Twining) Reeder. lican ; fraternally, he is a member of Siloam

Elias Reeder' s wife, Maria L,. Twining-, Lodge, No. 265, I. O. O. F., Newtown; and was born at Penn's Park, Pa., and was a Curtis Encampment of Newtown. On Feb- daughter of Mahlon Reeder, a prominent ruary 6, 1886, Mr. Reeder was married td resident of that place, where he followed the Miss E. S. Hampton of Ogontz, Montgomery

DR. S. P. KERNS. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 457

County, Pa., a daughter of Thomas P. and township and then attended Doylestown Sem- Edith B. Hampton. They have been blessed inary for one and a half years. He next took with five children, namely : Chester L,., who a full three years' course in the Keystone

; ; State Normal School of Kutztown, Berks died in infancy Mary ; Thomas P. Willis

W. ; and Edith. County, from which he graduated with the

class of 1 887. He then engaged as a school teacher in the district in which he now lives, and proved an able instructor. After con-

R. S. P. KERNS, a prominent and tinuing for a period of two years, he took up progressive citizen of the village of the study of medicine in Jefferson Medical M Chalfont, New Britain township, College of Philadelphia, where he took a whose portrait is shown on the opposite page, thorough course, and was graduated with the has the largest practice of any physician in class of 1893, and received a certificate to the county southwest of Doylestown, and one practice. He immediately returned to Chal-

which is richly deserved, for he stands with- font, where he succeeded to the practice of

out a peer in the treatment of the most com- Dr. A. J. Mathews, and has since enjoyed

plicated diseases. He is a son of Thomas a large and lucrative patronage. He is a and Elizabeth (Proctor) Kerns, and was born ifikn who, having a true sense of professional

in Chalfont, October 3, 1862. honor, treats his brother practitioners with Thomas Kerns, the father of the gentleman consideration and fairness, thereby winning whose name heads these lines, was born in their highest esteem. Having been born and Sellersville, Bucks County, but while a young reared in the district where he lives, he is man moved to New Britain township, \^here widely k^own and has innumerable friends he learned the trade of a carpenter and en- by whom he is patronized. He has one of gaged in agricultural pursuits. He now re- the best practices in the county, and is kept sides upon a farm in New Britain township, constantly busy, being at home only during

and is quite a prosperous man. As a result offifce hours, which are from 7 to 9 o'clock 2 of his union with Elizabe;th Proctor, who was A. M. ; I to -p. M. ; and from 7 to 8 p. m. born in Hilltown township, and is a daughter Sdcialiy, he is a metnber of the Bucks County of Thomas Proctor, he had seven children, Medical Society, and has been sent as a dele-

namely : Allen, a harness-maker by- trade gate to the state convention. He owns a who resides in New Britain township; S. P., fine residence on Main street, in the center the subject of this biographical record of the village, being one of the most beauti- deceased deceased ful in the locality, with office adjoining. Emma Catherine, ; John, ;

Thomas, deceased ; and William, who died February 7, 1894, be was joined in hynien- young. eal bonds with Julia B. Summers, a daughter

Dr. S. P. Kerns received his early educa- of John and Ellen (Martin) Summers. Mr. tion in the common schools of his native Summers was at one time a wholesale clothier 23* ;

458 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

of Philadelphia, but in 1891 moved to Chal- ried Cary B. Nace; -and I^ydia Ann, born

font, where he died December 10, 1896. Dr. September 21, 1852, who married Peter and Mrs. Kerns are the proud parents of two Steely, Samuel I,oux was a farmer of Hill-

children : Winfred, born in 1895 ; and Ethel, town township, and followed agricultural

born in 1897. Politically, he is a firm Dem- pursuits all his life. ocrat. In religious faith and fellowship he Joseph W. Ivoux, our subject's father, was is a member of the Reformed Church, whilst born October 20, 1845, and married, August

his wife is an adherent to the faith of the 14, 1869, lyucy A. Hunsberger, a daughter of Baptist Church. Abraham Hunsberger who was a well-to-do fanner of Hilltown township. Two chil-

dren were born to them : Ulysses G., in whom

the interest of this life history centers ; and

(^aTlvYSSES G IvOUX, the present pop- Abraham W., who was born February 26,

//-J ular postmaster of Geryville, Bucks 1877, and died December 31, 1895, aged V-^l*""^ County, and the proprietor of a eighteen years, ten months and five days. general store of that village, —the only estab- Joseph W. Loux is now living in retirement lishment of its kind in his section of Mil- in Plumstead township.

ford township, —was born November 5, 1872, Ulysses G. Loux received his early mental in Plumstead township, this county, near training in the schools of Plumstead town- the village of Plumsteadville. He is a son ship, and when a yotmg man engaged as a

of Joseph W. and I,ucy A. (Hunsberger) clerk in a store at Dublin, this county ; in Lk)Ux. 1895, our subject's father purchased the The Lionx family is of German ancestry. Owen Heist store and dwelling at Geryville, Our subject's great-grandfather, Andrew and, as our subject had become thoroughly

Loux, who was born in 1 780, married Maria acquainted with that line of business while Hartman, who was born in 1781, and their clerking at Dublin, Ulysses G. took charge

union was blessed with these children : Peter, of the store and has successfully conducted John, Nancy, Mathias, Catharine, Andrew, the same up to the present time. Mr. Loux Mary, and Samuel. Samuel L,oux, the displayed good judgment in purchasing such grandfather of Ulysses G., was born April a store in such a good community, for it is 12, 1813, and died December 25, 1865, aged situated in the center of a good farming and fifty-two years, eight months and thirteen dairy community, of which it commands days. He married Lydia A. Weisel, who almost the exclusive trade. Our subject car- was born August 11, 181 3, and died in April, ries a large stock of merchandise and gro- 1 878. The following-named children consti- ceries, and through his honest business tuted their family: Maria, born July 9, 1842, methods and evident desire to please has unmarried Joseph our ; W., subject's father secured the patronage of the farmers for Anna C, born December 13, 1847, who mar- many miles around. November i, 1891, our :

BUCKS COUNTY 459

subject was appointed postmaster of the vil- The old and highly respected family of

lage and has retained that position to the which he is a conspicuous member, traces its present time, filling the same with great ancestry in a direct line to Thomas Livezey,

credit to himself and to the satisfaction of a friend of William Penn, and one of the first

the entire community. Mr. Loux is well purchasers of the land chartered to the latter

known throughout the county and is greatly by King Charles II. On March 5, 1681, Wil- respected by his fellow-countrymen. liam Penn received the grant of land, inclu- Ulysses G. l/oux was married, March lo, ding the entire province of Pennsylvania, 1894, to Lizzie K. Strohm, a daughter of which he wished to establish as an asylum of Levi Strohm, a well-to-do citizen of Dublin, rest for the oppressed Friends of England, Pa., and this union has been blessed by the who were frequently cast in prison or sent

birth of two children, named as follows into exile because of their religious belief. Miriam, born at Dublin, October 10,1894; Thomas Livezey was also a devout Friend and Paul Raymond, born at Geryville, De- and, having unfaltering faith in the glowing cember 6, 1896. Although our subject takes accounts of the New World by the champion

an active part in the advancement and proof their cause, he was among the first pur-

gress of his community and township and chasers, acquiring the title to 250 acres of displays an unusual amount of interest in land, the conveyance being effected by the local politics, he has never sought political deed of lease and release, the former bearing

distinction, but firmly upholds the principles the date of March 2, 168 1, and the latter,

of the Republican party. Religiously, Mr. Marcli 3, of the same year. In these instru-

Loux and family are devoted members of the ments, Penn is described as being "of Worm- Reformed Church, toward the support of inghurst, in the County of Sussex," and which he liberally contributes. Livezey, " of Norton, in the County of Ches- ter, husbandman." The latter accompanied the body of emigrants, who, responding to the invitation of William Penn, went to the FRANKLIN LIVEZEY, a promi- new country with the latter's agent, William p^ ^ nent contractor and builder, whose Markham, who was also deputy-governor of

office is in the city of Philadelphia, the province. This expedition landed in is an influential citizen of Yardley, where he America in May, 1681, and the first authentic has resided and been engaged in business since record of Thomas is found in the minutes of

1 880. He is a man of great enterprise and has the first court held in Philadelphia, January erected some of the handsomest homes to be II, 1682, where it is noted he was a member found in Bucks County, also a number in Phil- of the grand jury. As was the custom, he also adelphia. He is a son of Allen and Mary Ann received, with his purchase of land, a lot of (Gordon) Livezey, and was born in Solebury ground within the limits of the city, which township, this county, December 12, 1847. Penn contemplated founding, and this lot is 1:

460 BOOK OF. BIOGRAPHIES numbered " 150" on the "portraiture of the Eastburn. She reached an advanced age be-

City of Philadelphia, in the province of Penn- fore submitting to the inevitable, July 18, sylvania, in America, by Thomas Holme, 1788, aged ninety-fpur years and eleven days.

Surveyor-General, London, 1683." It is lo- Their union resulted in the following issue :

cated at what is now near the corner of Fourth Jonathan, born March 8, 17 19 or 1720, died

and Chestnut streets, and there he built a November 11, 1789; Joseph, born October 23, house, for the record of the sale to Thomas 1722, and died in January, 1800'; married,

Green, October 20, 1683, describes the prop- March 20, 1753, Ann Roberts, a daughter of

erty as a house and lot. By his will, it is seen Roberts Sarah, born January 12, John ; 1724,

that he purchased an additional tract of 290 died March 23, 1790; Benjamin, born August

acres, which he sold to his son, Jonathan, to 31, 1728, and died November 28, 1793, mar- whom he also bequeathed the original tract ried, on the 15th of May, 1753, Phoebe Rob-

upon his death in 1691 or 1692, the will bear- erts, a daughter of John Roberts ; Mary, born

ing the date of June 12, 1691. As the records April 21, 1730, died at the age of one year

of Philadelphia do not mention the name of and seven months; and Nathan, born July 11,

his wife, it is not unlikely that she died be- 1739, and died in 1823, —his companion in fore he came to America. life was Hannah Williams, and they were

Jonathan Livezey, it is thought, was born married in 1763. in Chester County, Eng., and immigrated, to Jonathan Ivivezey was born in Philadelphia,

this country with his father in 1681, dying in Pa., March 8, 1719 or 1720, and formed a

Philadelphia September 23, 1698. By his marital union January 22, 1747, with Cather-

wife Rachel he had six children, a record of ine Thomas, who was born March 18, 172

whom follows : Mary, born March 9, 1687 or or 1722, and was a daughter of Daniel and

1688; Thomas, born January 17, 1689 or Catherine (Morris) .Thomas. This union re-

1690, and died June 5, 1759, married Eliza- sulted in the birth of nine children, namely beth Heath, a daughter of Robert Heath Esther, born who became the ; June 14, 1749,

Jonathan; Martha, born March 3, 1694 or wife of Jacob Holcombe, a son of Thomas and 169s, married Robert Thomas, March 25, 1721 Catherine Holcombe; Jonathan, born Janu-

or 1722 ; Rachel, born May 15, 1696, married ary 21, 1750 or 1751 ; Daniel ; Susanna, born

Evan Thomas, January 30, 1717; David, born August 3, 1754; Sarah, who died in infancy, March or 20, 1697 1698, married Rebecca was born September 7, 1756; Martha, born Hinkson, October 25, 1721, and was called December 29, 1757, died in infancy ; Thomas, •to his final rest in July, 1750. born July i, 1762; Joshua, born March 24, Jonathan L/iyezey was born in Philadel- 1764, died in infancy; and Isaac, born Feb- .phia. Pa., June 15, 1692, and resided thereat ruary 20, 1767, who also died in childhood. the time of his death, June 24, 1764. He was After the death of his first wife, Mr. Livezey joined in wedlock, March 24, 17 17 or 171 8, formed a second union, which was blessed by with Esther Eastburn, a daughter of Robert the birth of three children, namely : Rachel, :

BUCKS COUNTY 461

born June 4, 1776; David, February 16, mained until the close of the war. Some of the 1778 ; and Elizabeth, July 6, 1781. that wine was bottled and preserved by Thomas Livezey, a cousin of Jonathan late Mr. John Livezey, a grandson of the said Ivivezey, the third, was a man who moved in Thomas Livezey, until a short time before he the highest intellectual circles, and attained died, in 1878. He gave me a small bottle of distinction in public affairs, being a con- this Revolutionary wine, which I shall de- spicuous member of the Pennsylvania Assem- posit in our Society." Many prominent men bly in the years 1765-66-67-68-69-70-71. He were numbered among his acquaintances, one was also a member of that noted organization, of whom was Joseph Galloway, a noted law- the American Philosophical Society, of which yer, with whom he served in the Assembly. Benjamin Franklin was the founder, and was Their intimate social relations, together with an intimate acquaintance of the latter. He the wit for which Mr. Livezey was well known, " resided in a handsome residence at Roxboro, is shown in the letter which follows : To

Philadelphia County, bordering on the beau- Joseph Galloway, Dear Friend : —As thou hast tiful Wissahickon, where he owned and oper- often concluded from the lowness of my situ-

ated mills in connection with the cultivation ation that I must be connected with the Lower of his farm. He also had a large vineyard, Regions or some Infernal place of abode, I as it was customary in those days to make have sent thee the following true description one's own wine. In speaking of the excel- of the place of my residence in order to con- lence of the wine made by Thomas Livezey, vince thee of that error Hon. Horatio Gates Jones, in his communi- Near Wissahickon's mossy banks, where purling foun- cation to the Historical Society of Pennsyl- tains glide,

vania, of which he was vice-president, wrote ; Beneath the Spruces' shady boughs and Laurels' blooming pride, " No doubt it was good, for in 1768 Robert Where little fishes sport and play, diverting to the sight, sent a dozen bottles to Dr. Frank- Wharton Whilst all ,the warbling winged race afford my ear lin, who, in a letter dated 20th of February, delight. Here are evergreens by nature set, on which those 1768, wrote to Wharton as follows: 'Dear warblers sing. favors of aromatic groves from an eternal Spring Friend—I received your November And flowery ; Refreshing breezes round me move, which with the 17th and 1 8th, with another dozen of ex- bowers play, cellent wine, the manufacture of our friend And balmy odors on their wings through all my vale Ivivezey. I thank you for the care you have convey. Those charming scenes—did'st thou dwell here—would in forwarding them, and for your good taken all thy care beguile. wishes that accompanied them.' Mr. Live- And in the room of anxious fear, would cause a harmless smile. zey was a member of the Society of Friends, Here's innocence and harmony, which give me thoughts and when the British were in Philadelphia, sublime, Little inferior to the place call'd Eden in the prime. and our troops used to go about seeking pro- Thus situated, here I dwell, where these sweet zephyrs he sunk a number of barrels of wine vender, move. in his dam in the Wissahickon, where it re- And little rivulets from rocks add beauty to my grove. '

462 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

I drink the wine my hills produce ; on wholesome food children : Robert Jonathan, born January ; I dine ; 22, 1782, was a resident of Ohio, where he My little ofiFspring round me, like clusters on the vine. I hand in hand with second self oft' walk amidst the died; Sarah, who was born March 4, 1784, bowers, died at Centre Hill, this county; Isaac, born Whilst all our little prattling ones are gathering opening flowers. April 20, 1786, died February 27, 1864, at In this low station here I'm fixed, nor envy court nor Langhorne; Deborah, born April 20, 1788, King, died Hill Nor crave the honors statesmen crave, nor cares which at Centre ; Ezra, born March 20, riches bring. 1 792, died in New York City ; and Samuel, Honor's a dangerous, tempting thing, which oft' leads born April 23, died July 19, 1813. Mrs. men astray, 1794, Riches, like insects, spread their wings and quickly flee Livezey was born July 3, 1758, and lived away. to reach an advanced age. My meditations here are free from interrupting strife. Whilst different ways, aspiring men pursue indifferent Robert Livezey, the grandfather of our sub- life; ject, was born February 22, 1780, and died on I see what are the clergy's use, who will be paid to pray. the 14th of March, And how poor clients are abused by lawyers' long delay. 1864, in Solebury town- I see what cunning artifice the busy men employ, ship, Bucks County. His wife, Sarah Paxson, Whilst I this lonely seat of bliss unenvied here enjoy. to whom he was married November 14, 1 804, This is the place of my abode, where humbly here I dwell. was a daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth Which, in romantic mood, thou hast compared to Hell. (Brown) Paxson, and was born July i, 1779. But Paradise where Adam dwelt in blissful love and ease, A- lawyer would compare to Hell, if thence he got no The following issue resulted from their fees. union: Cyrus, born August 14, 1805, died Canst thou prefer thy heaven on earth—thy fee the root December 12, Elizabeth, of evil. 1885 ; born Feb- To this my lowly harmless place—my Hell without a ruary 26, 1807, died June i, 1896; Ann, born devil ? April 5, 1809, died April i, 1892 ; Albert, born " Permit me from my low situation to thine September 12, i8u, is living at this date of eminence, to do myself the justice to say, ; Allen, (1898) the father of our subject ; Sam- I am, with much respect, Thy sincere friend, uel, born September 18, 18 16, died November Thomas Livezey. I shall conclude with the 25, 1863 ; Elias, born June 3, 1819, resides in words made use of to Zaccheus of old, 'come Baltimore, Md.; and Abraham, born Sep- down come down quickly,' for — I want thee tember 15, 1821, and died August 31, 1896.

' to dine at my house. Allen I/ivezey was born in Solebury town- Daniel I^ivezey, a son of Jonathan and ship, Bucks County, January 11, 18 14, and Catlierine (Thomas) lyivezey, was born in was there reared to manhood. Early in life l/ower Dublin township, Philadelphia Coun- he learned the trade of a carpenter, and after ty, Pa., December 14, 1752, and died in his marriage moved to Lumberville, this Bucks County, Pa., in 1796. In 1778, he county, where he was engaged in contracting formed a matrimonial alliance with Margery until 1850, when he purchased a farm on Croasdale, a daughter of Robert and Margery the corner of State and Sugan roads, in Sole- Croasdale, and they reared the following bury township. After residing there for a :

BUCKS COUNTY 463

period of four years, he disposed of his prop- years, when he returned to Yardley and be- erty and followed his trade in Philadelphia gan contracting, in which line of work he has until 1 862, when he located at Taylorsville, since been engaged, soon after establishing

Bucks County. Three years later he moved his office in Philadelphia. The first building to Yardley, and since 1 897 has lived in retire- of importance which he erected was the Lang- ment in that borough. Being industrious and horne Manor Hotel, and he has since erected of frugal habits, he acquired the means with many fine ones throughout the county and in which to spend his declining years in com- Philadelphia, among them : Judge Fell's fort. He was united in marriage November house in Buckingham township, Mayor War- 28, 1839, with Mary Ann Gordon, a daughter wick's Philadelphia home, Yardley National of John and Sarah Gordon, and she was called Bank, Yardley Episcopal Church, St. Mar- to her final rest July 11, 1876. This union tin's Episcopal Church of Oak I^ane and the was blessed with the following children residences of T. H. Asbury, at Oak lyane, C.

Theodore, born August 20, 1840, resides in H. Salmon at Ashbourne, C. R. Williams in

Newport News, Va. ; Henry Clay, born Au- Philadelphia, and Theodore Phillips at Lang- gust 23, 1843, died in Yardley, January 8, horne, one of the finest in the county. He is ability, 1895 ; B. Franklin, whose name appears at also an architect of no mean having

the head of these lines ; and John Gordon, a drawn up the plans and erected the residence resident of Newport News, Va., who was of Moses Paxson of Radnor, Delaware County, born February 4, 1853. the Frankford Insurance Building of Frank- B. Franklin lyivezey attended the public ford, Pa., the residence of Judge Fell of Buck- schools of Philadelphia for some time, and ingham township, the Philadelphia home of also took a five years' course in the Society Mayor Warwick, and a number of others. He of Orthodox Friends' School in that city. He has always taken an active interest in all that then learned the trade of a carpenter from his pertains to the welfare of the borough, sup- father, and at the age of sixteen years enlisted porting all enterprises tending to that end. in Company M, 198th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., In political belief, he is an ardent Republi- which was with the Army of the Potomac. can, and at present is serving as chief burgess He received an honorable discharge in 1865, of the borough council; By the honest and after two years of active service, in which he impartial course he has pursued in the dis- had many exciting adventures and rendered charge of the duties of that office, he has won gallant aid to the cause of the Union., After the respect and friendship of every citizen the close of the war, he followed his trade in who has the welfare of the borough at heart. association with his father for eight years, He was also a director of the school board for and then went to New York City to accept a seven years, serving two years as president position as superintendent of construction and a like number as treasurer of that body. with a firm in that city. He faithfully dis- He is a local director of the Yardley & Dela- charged the duties of that ofiice.for seven ware Bridge Company. Mr. Yardley is a 464 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES member of Grand Army of the Republic Post but finally engaged, in the brokerage busi-

No. 2, of Philadelphia, Pa. ness which he has since followed. He is a

In 1877, onr subject formed a matrimonial man of many good qualities and is highly alliance with Sarah Van Horn, a daughter of respected by all with whom he is acquainted. Joseph and Sarah H. (Tonkin) Van Horn, In his political affiliations, he is a sturdy and their union has been blessed with one Republican. Socially, he has been an active daughter, Grace V. H. In religious attach- worker in the Masonic Order since early ments, they are members of the Society of manhood. He was joined in marriage with Friends. Eliza West Higgins, a daughter of Captain

Higgins, who was a sea captain and lost his life

while at sea. His father also was lost at sea. ETreiREDERICK LEIBFREID, an able at- This union was blessed by the birth of four

I w torney of Bucks County, resides in a children, two of whom grew to maturity, fine home on the bank of the Delaware River namely: Fanny Burt; and Frederick, the and facing RadclifFe street in Bristol, Pa., subject of this personal history. the principal residence street of the borough. Frederick lycibfreid, after obtaining a good

He is a son of Frederick and Eliza West (Hig- preliminary training in the public grammar gins) Eeibfreid, and was born in Philadel- schools and the Friends' Central School of

phia, August 7, 1874. Philadelphia, entered the University of Penn-

He is of German descent and is a grandson sylvania, where he took a complete course of Frederick Leibfreid, who was a native of and was graduated in June, 1896. In the Germany and for many years was a sea cap- meantime he had diligently applied himself

tain. He subsequently came to America, to the study of law under the preceptorship locating in Philadelphia, Pa., where he en- of Gen. John Q. L^ane, and C. Stuart Pat- gaged in the ship brokerage business. He terson, and immediately after graduation was

was at one time considered a very wealthy admitted to practice. He is a man of great man, but through unfortunate business trans- energy and enterprise, and a successful career

actions in this country lost much of his is assured him. He has always identified wealth. He was the progenitor of a family himself with the interests of Bucks County of four sons, all of whom grew to maturity. and the borough of Bristol, and has their The last days of his life were spent at the welfare at heart. Being a man of strong home of his son Frederick. personality and genial disposition, he has

Frederick Leibfreid, the father of the gen- won many friends and is a favorite socially.

tleman whose name heads these lines, was In September, 1897, he was united in mar- born in Philadelphia in 1832, and during his riage with Elizabeth Rutter, a daughter of younger days followed various vocations. Jacob R. Rutter, county commissioner of He was engaged in the manufacture of sil- lyancaster County, Pa. On the maternal

verware for many years with much success, side of the house, Mrs. L,eibfreid is related

WILSON W. BEAN. ;

BUCKS COUNTY 467

to the Lincoln family, and Abraham Lin- valued at 1 17,000; he was a man of many

coln was a frequent visitor at the home of sterling qualities ; he was an active and her parents. Our subject on both sides of shrewd business man, and his honest and

the house is descended from sea-faring men, straightforward business methods won for and has inherited a fondness for the water. him a multitude of friends. He bought the

His home, situated as it is on the bank of Harmon estate, and remodeled the house into the Delaware River, affords him an excellent a handsome home. He was joined in mar- opportunity for sailing and bathing. He has riage with Sarah Hager, a daughter of John also made several voyages to the West Indies Hager, and she died in 1857, at the age of

with friends of the family. forty-four years ; this union was blessed by

: Alfred, the following children deceased ;

Leahanna, deceased ; Mary ; Andrew ; Henry

H. ; Catherine E.; Emeline; Wilson W.; and

ILSON W. BEAN. The thriving Julianna. In 1 862 he was wedded to Sarah W^.little village of Ferndale possesses Fretz, and they were the parents of four chil- many manufacturing industries, among the dren, namely : Charles H.; Ida A. ; Irvin

foremost of which is the well-known Bean and William R. The father of our subject- Boot & Shoe Manufacturers, of which the passed from this life in 1882. gentleman whose name heads this brief Wilson W. Bean was intellectually trained

notice is general manager. This enterpris- for the battles of life in the public schools of ing and public-spirited citizen was, born in his native township and at Muhlenberg Col-

the above village February 22, 1853, and is lege ; at fifteen years of age our subject began a son of Henry and Sarah (Hager) Bean. work for his father, learning the trade of a Henry Bean was born in Richland town- shoemaker, and at eighteen years he con- ship, Bucks County, in the year 1813, and in tinued his chosen occupation until the year his younger years was apprenticed to the 1871, when he succeeded his father in the shoemaker's trade, which occupation he fol- business. From 1884 to 1889 our subject lowed throughout his active career. He lo- was also engaged in the mercantile business cated in Nockamixon township at an early in July, 1895, our subject was made general date, and settled at what is now known as manager of the Bean Boot & Shoe Manufac-

Ferndale ; be began the manufacture of shoes, turers. This firm makes a high grade of doing a large business, and his stock was miners' brogans, and give employment to 18 hauled to the city of Philadelphia, where he skillful hands, who turn out on an average obtained but a small price for his goods. 100 pairs of shoes per day. In 1880 the busi-

Mr. Bean was a typical self-made man, and ness had increased to such an extent that it his worldly possessions were the result of his was necessary to enlarge the factory, and ac- .own perseverance and untiring energy, and cordingly the present two-and-a-half story at the time of his death he left an esta:te building was erected. The success of this 468 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

firm is mostly due to the energetic ability O. U. A. M. Our subject is superintendent and an elder in of our subject ; he is an intelligent and well- of St. Luke's Sunday School

is also president of read citizen ; is public-spirited and lends his the church. He the influence in support of all measures that tend school board, to which position he was to promote the welfare of the village; and is elected in February, 1898. recognized as one of the valued members of In April, 1899, Mr. Bean will embark in his community. the boot and shoe business for himself, occu- Mr. Bean formed a matrimonial alliance pying a building opposite his dwelling. He with Ida C. Rufe, a daughter of Josiah and will give employment to about i S hands, and Mary Jane (Wyker) Rufe. Josiah Rufe was will increase this force as the demand re- born January 3, 1832, and learned the trade quires.

of a carpenter during his early days ; attain- As a thoroughly representative and entering his manhood, he bought the Abraham prising business man of Bucks County, we Wyker grist and saw mills on the Delaware take pleasure in publishing Mr. Bean's por-

River, and operated the same until 1896, trait on a preceding page. when he retired from active work, and the mills are now being operated by his son William C. Rufe. He was married to Mary Jane Wyker, a daughter of Abraham and ^-fAMPTON WATSON JOHNSON, Frances (Fulmer) Wyker, and they reared whom the people in the northern four children, namely : William ; Ida A.; part of Bucks County have hon-

Estella ; and Herbert, deceased. Mr. Rufe ored for many years as a model farmer and

is a strong Democrat in politics ; religiously, highly esteemed citizen, was born on the farm he is a I^utheran. Socially, he is a member where he now resides, the date of his birth of Poknoket Tribe, No. 178, I. O. R. M., of being November 10, 1832, and he is the fourth Kintnersville, of which he has served as trea- generation of the Johnsons who have resided surer for the past ten years. Mr. Bean is the in Richland township and on the original owner of one of the most beautiful homes in tract which was purchased by our subject's the northern section of the county^ having great-grandfather; there our subject is now erected a fine residence at a cost of $7,000, enjoying the fruits of his early toil, and his and surrounding his home is a large and home is a handsome stone structure which well-kept lawn, which is filled with many he erected himself This worthy and highly shade trees and beautiful shrubbery. Our respected gentleman is a son of Charles and subject and wife are the proud parents of Esther R. (Strawn) Johnson, grandson of four children, namely : Bertha Estella; Ches- Casper and Deborah (Adams) Johnson and ter Clarence ; Raymond Arthur, deceased great-grandson ; of Casper Johnson. and Roy. Fraternally Mr. Bean is a member Our subject's great-grandfather, who was a of the Knights of the Golden Eagle and Jr. native of Germany, left his native land at an :

BUCKS COUNTY 469

early day and came to America, where he Hampton Watson, whose name heads this took up a large tract of land in Richland life history ; Mary Ann, the wife of A. B. township, Bucks County, and built a house Walp; Olive James, a resident of Haycock which stood near the home of A. Johnson, township, this county; and Anna Maria, the one of his descendants. He divided his land wife of L,. M. Shelly. The mother of our among his sons, and Casper, the grandfather subject died in 1884, at the age of seventy- of our subject, received the eastern tract of seven years. the farm, which is now the property of our Hampton Watson Johnson attended the subject. Casper Johnson, Jr., built a house schools of Richland township, and in early beyond where our subject's barn stands, but manhood began to clerk in a general store; < later erected a two-story stone house 52 by 22 but, his father wishing his services, he re- feet ; he also built a cooper-shop in the yard turned home and aided his parent in running near the spring, and in addition to carrying the farm, and cared for his father and mother on general farming also successfully followed during their last days. Upon the death of his the occupation of a cooper. He cleared a father, he took possession of the homestead, portion of the farm, which was covered with and has since purchased adjoining land until a dense forest, and put the land under a high he now owns 145 acres of highly improved state of cultivation. He also built a very land. In addition to farming, our subject large barn, which with many improvements engages extensively in dairying, and is the and enlargements is still one of the best in owner of a choice herd of Holstein cattle. In the township. He and his wife were mem- 1887, Mr. Johnson tore down the old house, bers of the Society of Friends ; he died in which had stood there for many years, and

1825. As a result of his marriage with Deb- with the stone of which it was constructed orah Adams, the following family of children erected a handsome 2 ^-story house ; the house was born : Thomas, John and Joel all went is trimmed with brown stone, which gives it

to the state of Ohio and settled ; Charles, the a beautiful appearance. Mr. Johnson is recog- father of our subject James resides in I^ehigh nized as one of the leading agriculturists of ;

County, Pa. ; Casper resided in East Rockhill Richland township, and as a citizen and township; Catherine was the wife of Hugh neighbor is greatly esteemed by the members

Foulke ; Mary wedded Theodore Strawn ; and of his community of which he has so long Ann, the wife of James Griffith. been a member. Charles Johnson was born on the old home- In 1855, Mr. Johnson was wedded to Mar- stead, and with his father carried on farming garet Kratz, a daughter of Jacob and Eliza and coopering all his life; he passed from (Fretz) Kratz, and granddaughter of Philip this life in 1879, in his eighty-ninth year. and Elizabeth (Stover) Kratz. Our subject's He was joined in marriage with Esther R. wife has been a most kind and loving mother Strawn, a daughter of Abel Strawn, and they and helpmeet, and the interior of the home were the parents of four children, namely shows the result of many hard" hours of ;;

470 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

work ; she has won the esteem of a large Philip and Elizabeth (Rinker) Frankenfield, circle of acquaintances, and is loved by all. and great-grandson of Adam Frankenfield. Five children were born to our subject and Adam Frankenfield, the great-grandfather

wife, as follows : Erwin T., a practicing phy- of our subject, was born on the Atlantic Ocean

sician of I/cidytown, this county ; Charles while his parents were en route for America died aged twenty years; Oliver K., a railroad they settled in Springfield township, this man, resides at Kansas City, Mo. ; Harvey E. county, where Adam grew to manhood and works upon the homestead with his father; passed all his life engaged in the cultivation and Mary Jane, the wife of Dr. Wilson S. of the soil. The house in which Adam lived Erdman, of Richlandtowu. Mr. Johnson is stood close by to where the Springfield Church a solid Republican, and has served fifteen now stands, and near where Edward R. years as school director; in 1874, he was a Frankenfield now resides. Adam died at the candidate for the State I/Cgislature, and was age of sixty-seven years. Philip Franken- defeated by only twenty-two votes, the county field, the grandfather of our subject, was a being Democratic by over a thousand. Our son born to his father's second marriage, and subject is a director of the I/ine l/cxington his birth-place was the old homestead. He Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Bucks learned the trade of a carpenter, which occu-

& Montgomery Counties ; and has been pres- pation he followed throughout his entire life ident of the Richland Turnpike Company he resided near the village of Passer, where many years, and still continues in that F. Hess now lives. His death occurred in capacity. 1855, at the age of seventy-two years. He was married to Elizabeth Rinker, who died

in 1845, aged fifty-two years. They were the

parents of the following children : John |DWIN p. FRANKENFIEIvD, one of Hannah, the wife of Mullen Simon, James ;

the substantial and valued citizens our subject's father ; Adam married Cather-

of the village of Passer, Bucks County, where ine Gross ; Samuel was twice married, his he is engaged in the manufacture of clothing, first wife being a Miss Cressman, after whose is a descendant of one of the pioneer families death he wedded a Mrs. Klotz; David was of county, the this family having been founded wedded to Mary Fultz ; and Joshua, who was in this country by the great-great-grandfather united in marriage with Julia Brinker. of our subject, who with his family immi- Simon Frankenfield was born on the home- grated to America prior to the Revolutionary stead August 30, 1830, and was reared to War and settled in Springfield township, agricultural pursuits, but while yet a young Bucks County. Mr. Frankenfield was born man went to Coopersburg, where he learned in Springfield this township, county, Febru- the trade of a tailor ; he first started in the uary 17, 1867, and is a son of Simon and tailoring business at L,ocust Valley, but soon Eliza (Brinker) Frankenfield, grandson of located in Springfield township, and pur- ; —

BUCKS COUNTY 471

chased the Weaver estate opposite his father's mel, who bore him the following children,

farm, where he began the manufacture of Eva, Clyde, Austin, Carrie, and Sally ; Alice,

clothing ; he erected a large shop and gave the wife of Fred Peffer, of Hellertown, Pa., employment to a large force of hands; he and they are the parents of six children, also let a large amount of his work out to Stella, Carrie, Webster, Grace, Willis, and

farmers' wives for them to do at their homes. Thomas ; Edwin P., our subject, was next in Mr. Frankenfield established a good reputa- order ; Caroline ; and Annie, the wife of Oscar tion for honest and straightforward dealings, Bealer, of Passer.

which is still maintained by his sons, who Edwin P. Frankenfield spent his younger were educated to the art of tailoring and who days working in the tailoring shop of his have now charge of the business. The goods father, but later learned telegraphy and was manufactured by this establishment are an operator for the Philadelphia & Reading

mostly shipped to wholesale dealers of Phila- Railroad for five years ; returning home, he delphia and Allentown, Pa. Our subject's entered the employ of his brothers Henry and father entered the world of rest in March, William, who had succeeded to the owner- 1888, and his death was deeply mourned not ship of their father's tailoring establishment. only by his family and relatives, but by a The proprietors are men of great ability, and large circle of friends. For ten years he was through their untiring energy have succeeded licensed to preach and was a member of the in establishing a large and enviable patron-

Evangelical Church. He was married to Eliza age ; they are popular and highly respected

Brinker in 1849 ; she was born in Upper members of their community and take an Saucon township, I^ehigh County, Pa., May active interest in any enterprise that tends to 28, 1829, and now resides in the village of benefit the welfare of the township. Mr.

Passer. She is the mother of the following Frankenfield was united in the bonds of mat-

children : Catherine ; Adeline married Jacob rimony witli Annie Kramer, and they are the H. Rickert, and they have two children, Ida happy parents of two children. Bertha and

and Delia ; Wesley died, aged two years Frank. Emma was married to Monroe Groh, of Coop- ersburg, and they have reared the following children, —I/illie, Kate, Calvin, Herbert, and ON. CHARLES S. VANDEGRIFT, Henry, with his brother who has attained high Eugene ; who Wil- distinction liam, succeeded his father in the business, in political and business circles in

conducted the business under the firm name Bucks County, is now practically living in of Frankenfield Bros., and they built a new retirement in his fine home on the banks of and large shop, —he married Emma Meyers, the Delaware River, near Eddington, Ben- and their children are, —Ira, William, Warren, salem township. He is a man of high char-

Florence, Delia and Daniel ; William, a mem- acter and possesses a large amount of influ- ber of the firm, was wedded to Mary Ham- ence throughout this section, in whose welfare :;

472 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

and interest he has labored zealously for brance by the family for his valiant services many years. He was born in the village of to our country in its struggles for existence.

Eddington, Bensalem township, August 20, William B. Vandegrift, the grandfather of

1839, and is a son of Alfred and Catherine our subject, was born in Bensalem township (Gibbs) Vandegrift. about 1767, and was one of two sons born to Among the earliest accessions to the Eng- his father that grew to maturity. He was a lish settlement in Bensalem township, in or farmer by occupation, and was also quite ac- about the year 1660, was a Dutch family, tive in political circles, serving in a number which is stiir well represented in that sec- of township offices. His wife was Christina tion, the Vandygrift family, consisting of four Souders, and the following were their chil-

brothers, Nicholas, Leonard, Johannes, and dren : Sarah ; Eliza ; Ellen ; Susan ; Alfred

Frederick. They purchased lands of the Charles S. ; and William B. Religiously, they Growdens, and the family has since been an were members of the Presbyterian Church. important factor in the growth and develop- His wife died in 1842, and he laid down life's ment of the county. burden and entered into rest three years later. Jacob Vandegrift, Sr., the great-grand- Alfred Vandegrift, the father of our sub- fathei: of our subject, was born in Bensalem ject, was born on the old homestead, about township on the old homestead. He was a one mile from Eddington, in 1808, and dur- farmer, and during the Revolutionary War ing his entire life was engaged in the culti- rendered valuable service to the cause of lib- vation of the farm. After his marriage, he erty. He was the commander of a corps purchased a farm on the edge of Eddington,' known as the Bensalem Associators, but did where he spent the remainder of his days. not belong to the regular army. It was his Politically, he was a Democrat, and served duty when the British soldiers were occupy- for some time as school director of Bensalem ing Philadelphia, to supply our army with township. He was united in marriage with provisions, and many attempts were made by Catherine Gibbs, a daughter of John Gibbs, the enemy to effect his capture, but their an Englishman, and their children were efforts were always fruitless. While at home, John G. ; William B. ; Eleanor ; Charles S. he kept his slaves always on guard, and when Augustus ; Henry S. ; lyouis H. ; Susan the red coats made their appearance he con- Mary C. ; Alfred ; and Elizabeth. William cealed himself in some unlookedfor place. B. moved to Alabama, and upon the out- At one time he had the satisfaction of being break of the Civil War enlisted in the Con- in up a chestnut tree while they made a dili- federate cavalry from that state. He served gent search of the premises for him, going until the close of the struggle, and four years through the house and barn, and prodding later passed away as a result of the many the haystacks with their bayonets. He was wounds he received in battle. Mr. Vande- a very prominent man of the time, and his grift died in 1861, but his beloved wife, who name will long be held in sacred remem- was born in 181 1, still survives him and lives BUCKS COUNTY 473

•with her daughter in Camden, N. J. Of the Since he was eighteen years of age, Mr. eleven children all grew to maturity. Vandegrift has evinced a deep interest in

Charles S. Vandegrift, the subject of this public and political affairs, and has held a

biographical record, was reared upon the number of high offices. He is a stanch Demo-

farm, and attended the public schools for a crat, and, in 1882, was elected State Senator,

time, after which he was a student in Gen. which office he filled with credit until 1886.

Partridge's Military Academy, near Bristol, In 1896, his party honored him with the nom- Pa., for two years. He then engaged as a ination for Member of Congress, but, with

clerk in the store of his uncle, Charles S. the rest of the ticket, he met defeat. The Vandegrift, in Eddington, with whom he had only township office which our subject ever gone to live at the age of thirteen years. In consented to accept was that of auditor,

1856, his clerkship began and his knowledge which he filled for nine years, and although of the business became so extensive that his strongly importuned refused to serve in that

uncle retired in 1862, and left the sole man- capacity longer. He exerts vast influence in agement to him. He continued in that busi- behalf of his party and has often served as

ness until 1 874, when he engaged in the lum- delegate in state, county, senatorial, congres-

ber business with J. and E. Thomas, in Ed- sional, and judicial conventions. dington. After a period of six years, they Socially, he is a member of Bristol Lodge,

moved to Torresdale, where they manufac- No. 25, F. & A. M., of which he is past

tured and dealt in lumber, flour, feed, and master, and district deputy grand master;

cement. The business prospered under ex- Harmony Chapter, No. 25, R. A. M. ; and

cellent management, and they continued un- St. John Commandery, No. 4, Knights Tem-

til January, 1890, when our subject retired plar, of Philadelphia. In 1862, he was joined

from active business life. However, for sev- in Hymen's bonds with Mary H. Rowland, eral years past, owing to his extensive knowl- a native of Chester County, Pa., and a daugh-

edge of business affairs, he has acted as gen- ter of Charles Rowland ; by her he has one eral business agent for many parties in his son, Frederick B. The latter was born in

vicinity. Since his retirement, he and ,his 1 862, and is now an energetic and progressive

worthy wife have spent much time in travel, business man of Philadelphia. He is at the and have visited all of the points of interest head of the firm of F. B. Vandegrift & Co., in the United States. He owns a fine 28-acre custom-house brokers and general forwarders

tract of land on the banks of the Delaware of Philadelphia. He is also a lawyer and a

River, where he erected a fine house in 1874, member of the Philadelphia Bar. The firm, in which he has since lived. Altogether, he of which he is a member, has offices in New

owns three farms, one of which is the old York, Philadelphia, and Chicago, and in all

homestead, which has been in the family for employ about fifty clerks. He is the author so many years and which was the place and compiler of the Hand Book of United where he was born. States Tariff Customs, interpreting the tariff +74 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

act of 1897. This work has brought him Upon his graduation he was prepared for the world-wide renown, and has been adopted by ministry in the -Reformed Seminary, and in the United States Government, and is every- the meantime was engaged as a teacher in a where recognized as the most complete and school for boys in Doylestown, located in the highest authority published. A copy of this upper story of the building in which Mr.

valuable work is to be found in every custom Beerer's bottling establishment is now lo- house in the world. cated. He was licensed to preach by the Goshenhoppen Classis in 1864, and in the

following year accepted his first charge in Bloomsburg, Columbia County, Pa., continu- ^EV. IvEVI C. SHEIP, deceased, who ing until 1867, when he taught school in will long be remembered for his great West Philadelphia for one year. In 1868 he works in the ministerial and edu- was called to the Salem Reformed Church of

cational fields of labor, for some years faith- Doylestown, and served as its pastor continu-

fully filled the pulpit of the Doylestown Re- ously until called to his final rest. In addition

formed Church. He was one of a family of to his pastorate he labored zealously for the six children born to John and Hannah (Sny- promotion of the educational interests of the der) Sheip, and was born in New Britain community, and in 1869 established a girls' township, Bucks County, December 30, 1833. school in what is now the Masonic Hall. In The Sheip family is of Swiss descent, and 1871, aided by Henry H. Hough, Esq., he for more than a century past has been lo- established the L,inden Female Seminary, cated in Bucks County, where its members and taught in that institution until the sum- have been engaged in agricultural pursuits, mer of 1879, the last year of which he was and have ranked among the leading citi- sole principal. In the fall of 1879 ^^ became zens of the various communities in which principal of the Doylestown borough schools, they lived. which at the time were located in the old

Mr. Sheip was also reared, upon the farm, building, but several months prior to his re- and, although he attended the district schools linquishment of that position were located in in his younger days, he obtained a good pre- the present building. He served in that ca- liminary training as he applied himself with pacity until June, 1890, after which he devoted unusual diligence and took advantage of every his time to church work. He was a man of opportunity for advancement. At the age of educational attainments and also literary abil- twelve years he entered Doylestown Academy ity, and translated several works from the and upon leaving that institution began teach- German ; in 1875, after some time spent in a ing school. Subsequently he was prepared sojourn in Europe, he lectured on what he for college at Frederick Institute in Mont- had seen, much interest being added to his gomery County, after which he entered the lectures by pictorial illustrations. Franklin and Marshall College at I^ancaster. Our subject was of a genial disposition,

Wtv'MM^M^

A. WEIR GILKESON. BUCKS COUNTY 477

gentle mannered, and had a large circle of ac- bar April 29, 1840, and took up practice at quaintances throughout the county, by whom Bristol, where he lived until his death, in he was greatly loved and respected. He was i860, aged forty-five years. He was very sympathetic and kindly, fond of humanity, well known throughout the town, and served

and a general favorite in the community, in various official capacities, being prothono- where his ministrations were freely given tary for a number of years. He was united during a long period of years. Socially, he in the holy bonds of wedlock with Margaret

was a member of Doylestown Lodge, No. 245, Kinsey, of English descent, and a daughter F. & A. M., of which he was chaplain for of John Kinsey, of Bristol, by whom he had

many years. He died apparently without a three sons and one daughter, namely : B. struggle. He had retired as usual, and the Frank, who was admitted to the bar February

next morning he was found in bed as if he 2, 1 864, and practiced in Bristol ; Allan G. were stili quietly sleeping. was adrnitted to the bar in 1870, and went West,- locating in Ellis County, Kan., where he -became district attorney and finally was

elevated -to the county bench; A. Weir, the .

WEIR GII/KESON, whose portrait subject of this biographical .record ; and a

is shown on the opposite page, has sister who now resides in Bristol. attained prominence throughout A. Weir Gilkeson, after completing the re-

Bucks County as a learned lawyer, and is quired course in the common schools of his one of the most enterprising and public- native -town, entered St. Stephen's College,

spirited citizens Bristol borough has ever Annahdale,-" N. Y. , from which he was grad-

known. He is a son of A. W. and Margaret uated -in 1873. Then after reading law for (Kinsey) Gilkeson, and first saw the light of some time and in a very thorough manner, day in Bristol, Pa., in 1853. he was admitted to the bar in 1879, imme-

He is descended from an old and well- diately^ thereafter entering upon a practice in known English family, that, upon coming to Bristol, where he has attained the highest America, located in Horsham township, success as a legal adviser and a citizen. He Montgomery County, Pa., where our subject's is shrewd, calculating, learned and honora- grandfather, Elias G., was born. Later Elias ble, which qualities, combined with aggres- G. Gilkeson located in Bucks County, set- siveness and energy, have been the main tling in the vicinity of Bristol. cause of his success in his chosen profession A. W. Gilkeson, the father of our subject, and in the other channels of business in which was born in Horsham township, Montgomery he has entered. He has dealt to a considera- a very young man when he ble extent in real estate with some success County, and was ; came to Bristol with his parents. After is a director in the Electric Light Company

completing his education in the common of Bristol ; is secretary of the Bristol Improve- schools, he read law and was admitted to the ment Company ; director and attorney for the :

478 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Ivanghorne Trolley Company ; was one of the subject, was a prominent citizen of Trenton, organizers and for many years treasurer of N. J., and for twenty years prior to his the Bristol lyibrary ; and is secretary of three death, which occurred in 1885, was president building associations. He is a man of genial of the Mechanics' Nafional Bank of that disposition, and has made scores of friends city. Formerly he was president of the New

since entering upon his practice in Bristol. Jersey Steel & Iron Company, which is now In 1882 he was united in marriage with Cooper, Hewitt & Co., and was also a direc- Mary E. Eairbairn of Annandale, N. Y., and tor of the Camden & Amboy Railroad, which

they are the fond parents of one son, Fair- was the first steam road built in the United bairn. Politically, he is an unswerving States. He was united in the holy bonds of member of the Republican party. In social matrimony with Susan Conrad, a sister of circles he is also well known, and is affili- Dr. John Conrad, who was resident physician ated with Bristol lyodge, F. & A. M.; and is at the Pennsylvania Hospital for a period of the presiding officer of Hermone Lodge, forty years. This union resulted in the birth K. of P. Religiously, he is a member of of three sons and one daughter, namely St. Paul's Episcopal Church, of Bristol, of Capt. Joseph, who met his death bravely bat- which he is an officer. tling for his country in the Civil War at Bull Run; Dr. Charles C. of Trenton, who was formerly a professor of archaeology in the University of Pennsylvania, has written the

R. J. DE BENNEVIIvI.E ABBOTT, following books, which merit the attention a gentleman of high educational they have attracted throughout the country, B attainments, who has made a thor- — "Days Out of Doors," "Waste Land ough study of the medical profession, is en- Wanderings," "Travels in a Tree Top," gaged in practice at Bristol, Bucks County, and "A Colonial Wooing;" Francis, the where he is held in high esteem by the com- father of our subject ; and Mary G., a maiden munity at large. He is a son of Francis and lady residing in Trenton, N. J. Julia Churchman (Shewell) Abbott. Francis Abbott was born in Trenton, N. J., He is descended on the paternal side and received his schooling in the public from John Abbott, who emigrated from his schools and in the Trenton Academy, from native country, England, in 1685, and came which he was graduated in 1858. At the to America, locating on a large tract of land age of eighteen years, he entered the employ in New Jersey, between Yardville and Tren- of Drexel & Co. of Philadelphia, and has ton, a portion of which is still owned by his continued with them up to the present time, descendants. He married Ann Maleverer, or a period of thirty-nine years. He was whose ancestry is traced directly to Alice united in marriage with Julia Churchman Markenfield. Shewell, who was of French descent and Timothy Abbott, the grandfather of our came from a prominent family. She is de- ;

BUCKS COUNTY 479

scended from the noted Dr. George de Benne- tutions of Paris and London, and attending ville who was of French-Huguenot birth, and the clinics. He visited the London Chil-

was the real founder of Universalism in this dren's Hospital, St. Thomas' Hospital, Good country. He lived near Branchtown, a sub- Samaritan Hospital, London University Hos- urb of Philadelphia. Her father was Lin- pital, and Soho Square Hospital. He then ington Shewell, a prominent dry goods im- returned to America and became the assistant

porter, who made his headquarters at Bir- of Dr. M. J. Buck of Altoona, Pa., and in

mingham, England, and was -a member of 1889 opened his office at Bristol, where he the firm, Thomas Shewell & Son, merchants has since practiced with much success. of Philadelphia. His father, Thomas, was a Among his many patients are numbered the native of Coventry, England, and a graduate leading citizens of the community, whose

of Cambridge University, from which he re- confidence and esteem he has won by the ceived the degree A. M. lyinington Shewell able manner in which he conducts his affairs.

crossed the Atlantic Ocean many times and He is well versed in all matters of current was on the third day of his voyage for the interest and is especially interested in natural eighty-ninth time when he was overtaken by history. He took a course in biology under the silent reaper Death. Three sons blessed the tutelage of the noted Englishman, Hux- the home of Mr. and Mrs. Abbott, whose ley, and is a deep close student.

i, Dr. names are as follows : J. de Benneville, in November 1897, Abbott was united whom the interest of this sketch centers in matrimonial bonds with Helen Keim, a

Francis Iv. , a physician who is practicing in woman of many virtues, who comes of one

Philadelphia; and Charles S., who has ac- of the best families of Bristol. Our subject cepted a position as resident physician in the is a Republican, but has never taken any City Hospital at Melbourne, Australia. active part in political affairs.

Dr. J. de Benneville Abbott was born in Philadelphia, near Tioga Station, June 28, 1866. At the age of eighteen months his

father removed to German town, where our OWARD W. ATKINSON, who is a subject attended the Germantown Academy, well-known funeral director of Doyles- from which he was graduated in 1882. He town, with offices in the Lenape then entered the Hahnemann College of Building, is a gentleman of unquestioned Philadelphia, and read medicine with Dr. honor and integrity. He is a son of Mahlon Malcolm McFarlan, graduating in 1887 after R. and Mary Ann (Wood) Atkinson, and completing a full course. In order to be- grandson of Mahlon and Martha (Walmsley) come competent to handle even the most Atkinson, and was born in Davisville, South- intricate diseases, he went abroad for one ampton township, Bucks County, November year, and he took an advanced course in 22, 1853. instruction, visiting all the prominent insti- He comes of English Quaker and Puritan ; ;

48o BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

stock, and his ancestors were among the eldest son, Thomas, appear in connection early pioneer settlers of Eastern Pennsyl- with almost every public measure for many

vania. Through his grandmother's grand- years. . This son Thomas was twice married. mother, Mrs. Elizabeth (Hicks) Willet, he is His first wife, Mary Washburn, made him the related to the Hicks family of Puritan blood father of Thomas and Jacob. After her death, and antecedents. Robert Hicks, the ancestor he married Mary Doughty, and had these of the family in America, came over with the children: Isaac; William; Stephen; John;

" ; Benjamin Phoebe Charity ; Mary second body of Puritans in the ship For- Charles ; ; ; tune," arriving at Plymouth, Mass., Novem- and Elizabeth. Isaac Hicks, the eldest son

ber II, 1 62 1. He was a leather-dresser from of this second family, married Elizabeth Bermondesey street, Southwark, London. His Moore, and their union was blessed with father, James Hicks, was lineally descended eleven children: Charles; Benjamin; Isaac;

Gilbert ; Henry knighted ; Thomas from Ellis Hicks, who was by Ed- ; James ; John ; Ed-

ward the Black Prince, on the battlefield of ward ; Margaret ; and Mary. Gilbert Hicks

Poictiers, September 9, 1356, for bravery in took for his wife Mary Rodman, and five

capturing a set of colors from the French. children constituted their family : Isaac Margaret, the wife of Robert Hicks, and her Sarah; Elizabeth; Mary; and Joseph Rod- children, came over in the ship "Ann," man. Elizabeth Hicks, the second daughter which arrived at Plymouth during the latter of the family just named, married General part of June, 1622. The family settled in Augustine Willett, who achieved distinction Duxbury, Mass., but two of the sous, John and in the Revolutionary War. They had ten

Stephen, subsequently (about 1642) moved to children, as follows : Mary; Elizabeth; Abi-

Long Island. Robert Hicks' first wife, Eliz- gail; Horatio R. ; Sarah A.; Mar- G. ; Joseph

abeth Morgan, bore him four children : ; Eliz- garet ; Euphemia ; Grace and Lydia. Mary abeth; Thomas; John; and Stephen. He Willett married Daniel T. Walmsley, and had

was married the second time to Margaret these children : Elizabeth ; Martha, our sub-

haid four : Winslow, and children Samuel ject's grandmother Sarah Mary ; Grace ; ; ; Ephraim; Lydia; and Phoebe. John Hicks, and Madison. the third child by the first wife, married Mahlon Atkinson, the grandfather of How- Elizabeth Morton, and they had three chil- ard W., was a prosperous farmer of Byberry, dren; Thomas; .Hannah; and Elizabeth. In Philadelphia County, Pa, where he lived a

October, 1645, Governor Kieft granted a pa- great portion of his life. At the date of his tent to Thomas Farrington, John Hicks and death, he was residing in Drumore, Lancas-

others, for the township of Flushing, L,. I. ter County, Pa. He married Martha Walm- John Hicks seems to have taken a leading sley, referred to above, and their union was part in the affairs of the settlement, and was blessed with five children : Mary ; Howard

appointed at various times to fill the most H.; Violetta ; Angelina; and Mahlon R., our important ofl&ces. His name, and that of his subject's father. BUCKS COUNTY 481

Mahlon R. Atkinson was born at Byberry and well arranged for the comfort and conve- Cross Roads, Philadelphia County, Pa., Feb- nience of guests. It has always been well in ruary I, 1827, but early in life moved to patronized, and Mr. Atkinson's success Bucks County, where, in Southampton town- that direction has far exceeded his expecta- ship, he lived for many years, but is now a tions. Socially, Mr. Atkinson is a member highly respected resident of Ivyland, War- of several societies, viz. : Doylestown Lodge, minster township. He is a painter by trade, No. 245, F. & A. M,, of Doylestown; Royal and followed that occupation with the best of Arch Chapter, No. 270, of Doylestown ; Royal success all his active life, but is now spending Arcanum; I. O. O. F. Lodge and Encamp- his declining years in the peace and quiet to ment. be found in retired life. December 21, 1850, On March 9, 1885, Howard W. Atkinson he was united in the holy bonds of wedlock was united in wedlock with Emma Wilson, with Mary Ann Wood, and their happy union of Doylestown, and they are the parents of was blessed with the birth of five sons and four children : Mary; Julia; Augustine; and Frances. five daughters, as follows : S. Emma; Charles

S. ; Howard W., our subject; ViolettaS.; Law-

rence R. ; M. Matilda ; Anna Joshua ; A. ; J.

Louise ; and Harry B. OHN K. BENNER. Among the prom- Howard W. Atkinson, in whom the inter-, inent residents of this county, who est of this sketch centers, was reared in have accumulated largely of this

Davisville until he was eight years of age, world's goods through their own efforts, when he went to Huntingdon Valley. After backed up by a conquering energy and per- remaining there eight years, he returned home severance, and who are now retired from the and learned the trade of a house-painter with active labors of life upon a well-earned com- his father, continuing at that occupation un- petency, is the gentleman whose name heads til he was twenty-two years of age, when, in this biographical notice, and whose home is

1 876, he moved to Doylestown. He continued in the borough of Doylestown. He is a son at his trade in that borough and vicinity, and of Michael and Sarah (Kober) Benner, and was the leading house-painter there, employ- was born in Rockhill township, this county, ing a force of from 12 to 15 men. In 1884, June S, 1845- he embarked in the undertaking business, His grandfather was Henry Benner, who opening an office in the Lenape Building, on resided in Rockhill township all his life,

Main street. His establishment is the lead- pursuing the vocation of a farmer. He died ing one of its kind in Doylestown, and he in 1850. He was married to a Miss Wam- has the patronage of the leading citizens, who bold by whom he reared a large family of repose full confidence in his integrity. In children. Michael Benner was born in Rock-

1890, he became proprietor of "Oakland," a hill township, Bucks County, in 1812, and summer resort, which is pleasantly located was educated to agricultural pursuits, which 482 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

calling he continued in his native township ness career in that line, he went out on the

until 1888, when he moved to Doylestown road and sold his goods. He was ably as-

and lived the remainder of his life in re- sisted by his wife in the store in selling his

tirement. He departed from this life in goods, she being an expert saleslady, having 1889. He was an earnest and consistent had much experience in that line. Mr. Ben- member of the lyUtheran Church of which ner,,although practically retired, occupies his he was a liberal supporter, and held many time in representing the Bucks County Mu- church offices. He was united in marriage tual Life Insurance Company. He has been with Sarah Kober, who died in 1880, and very successful in all his business ventures, they reared a family of five children, of whom and his honorable, upright dealings in all two sons are now living. transactions have won him a high place in John K. Benner pursued his educational ca- the regard of the entire community. reer in the district schools of Rockhill town- Mr. Benner was wedded to Sarah Bean, ship, remaining closely at home throughout of Quakertown, Pa., who has proved a true his boyhood days, assisting his father about help-meet, is a woman of many virtues, ex- the farm. At twenty-one years he began to cellent qualities, and is beloved by all. This learn the trade of a shoe manufacturer, serv- union has been blessed by the birth of five ing an apprenticeship with ; Daniel Horn in children : Henry Oscar, deceased ; Samuel 1872 he started in business in Bedminster Edgar, a bookkeeper by profession ; Lillie township on his own account. One year later May, deceased ; Herbert B. ; and Austin B. he built a factory in Dublin, this county, In 1896 our subject erected his present resi- which he successfully operated for a period of dence, a handsome and commodious brick fifteen years; in 1888, he rented a store room structure, with stone trimmings. Mr. Ben- of Frank Worthington in Doylestown, and ner is a believer in education, is in touch there opened a general store, which he con- with modern progress, and is in all matters ducted up to 1896, when he closed out and a thoughtful and considerate gentleman. In retired. Mr. Benner started in business with business and private life he has been equally but very little capital, and when he had successful, and is now reaping the justly made a number of pair of shoes, he would earned rewards of a life well spent. go out and sell them, in that way introduc- ing his goods to a good trade ; the first five years the shoes were made by hand, and because of their excellent quality he had no ^I'SVrVATHIAS STROBELE, a promi- further difficulty in placing them on the 1= I =/ nent representative of the thrifty market. As his trade picked up, he began to H J- \_^ German class of citizens resi- employ help, gradually increasing as the busi- ding in Bucks County, Pa., is a large property ness increased, until he employed as high as owner and proprietor of the Delaware House, 10 men, and during the latter part of his busi- one of the leading hotels of the borough of BUCKS COUNTY 483

Bristol, which is ably conducted by his mitted him to be taken to the home of his daughter, Mrs. Sophia B. L,incoln. lyanding sister at Bieberach, where he also lay in his in America in 1850, without means and with bed for several weeks. One day he arose only a strong constitution and willingness to and taking up a flail went out to the barn, work, he plied his trade, which was that of where he worked as vigorously as his feeble a harness maker, with great industry, and health would permit until the perspiration by the practice of economy he accumulated dripped from him. Although the operation wealth with which he made safe investments. was very painful, it proved an effectual re- He became the owner of property in Bristol, medy, however, and in a short time he was and at the present time is one of the oldest fully recovered and again took up his trade, and best known citizens of that place, where which he followed until he immigrated to he resides with his daughter. He is a son of America, in 1850, being the only member of Anthony and Katharine (Kaiser) Strobele, the family to locate in this country. The and was born in Ahlen, Ober-Amt-Bieberach, voyage across the Atlantic took exactly forty-

Germany, February S, 1826. Anthony Stro- two days ; soon after landing in New York bele, the father of the gentleman whose name City, he moved to Philadelphia, and in i860 heads these lines, was a farmer by occupation took out his naturalization papers. His first and resided in Germany. His union with employment in the latter city was in a large Katharine Kaiser resulted in the birth of ten harness shop where he worked for two years, children, four of whom were sons, namely : but upon the expiration of that time he

Martin ; Xavier ; Mathias ; and Johan. moved to Bristol to evade the yellow fever Mathias Strobele was educated in the pub- which at that time was raging in Philadelphia. lic schools and worked upon his father's There, during the winter months, he was en- farm until he was sixteen years of age, when gaged in cutting ice on the Delaware River, he became apprenticed to the trade of a har- but subsequently he was employed at various ness maker. He was eighteen years old when other occupations, one of which was as a har- he went to Switzerland where he plied his ness maker and repairer in the canal stables. trade for some three years, but upon attain- In 1853, he was united in marriage with ing man's estate he returned home to enter Clementina Schatzle, with whom he was ac- the German Army. He served for two years quainted in the old country, and during the in a regiment of cavalry during the Revolu- first year of their wedded life she resided in tion of 1848, enduring many hardships owing Philadelphia, and it was his custom to run to the inclemency of the weather and the into the city every Saturday night, remaining many long hours of guard duty, and his until Monday morning. He was taken sick health finally failed him. He was taken to in that year, and remained at his home in the hospital at Ulm, where he was confined Philadelphia because of rheumatism until to his bed twenty-one weeks, and as the army 1854, when he and his wife rented a house in physician despaired of his life he kindly per- Bristol, of John Dorrance, in which they :

484 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

lived for a period of twenty years. He worked in addition a large area of land. Immediately at his trade, repairing and making harnesses after taking possession, he expended $8,000

for the canal boatmen, and was ably assisted in improving the hotel and putting it in first by his wife, who kept track of his finances class condition, and it has since been con-

and when necessity required would sit on the ducted by his daughter, Mrs. Sophia E. Lin-

bench and finish a harness or collar with al- coln, with whom he now resides. In 1894,

most as much skill as he could. Thus they he rented his coal yard and also rented it in worked faithfully as man and wife, each the two years following, but in 1897 he with the intent to aid the other, and by their placed his son in charge, and the latter has

frugal and economical habits of life, they since had complete control. Our subject in were enabled to lay by a neat sum and in recent years has not been. engaged actively in time to purchase the Allen estate in the any work other than looking after his busi- borough, which consisted of a large tract of ness interests. The secret of his great suc-

land and numerous houses. In connection cess is the practice of economy and shrewd with the harness business, he conducted a business transactions, which although they large coal yard which he established on his resulted in much benefit to him, were not de-

property, and acquired a large patronage. trimental to the success of others. He is a

During this time, the Pennsylvania Railroad man of high character and is respected by a was built and crossed his land, the right of large circle of acquaintances throughout his way passing through four of his houses. In section who have known and dealt with him

the settlement with the railroad company, he for many years. He is of a charitable dispo-

encountered considerable trouble and was ob- sition and is liberal in his aid of the poor. liged to resort to law. During the long pe- Mr. Strobele and his worthy wife, who was

riod of litigation, his wife's health failed under born in Kopple, Germany, May 18, 1825, be- the strain and worry, and he was bereaved of came the parents of three children. William,

her companionship, December 14, 1883. The who died at the age of six years, was born

controversy was finally settled by the pay- October 20, 1861. Sophia E., born December

ment of g6,ooo on the part of the railroad, 9, 1856, was united in matrimonial bonds and the running of a switch into the coal with Steadman Hellings X,incoln, who was yard of Mr. Strobele. after, Soon the latter born in Morrisville, N. J., December 25, 1854, bought the Van Horn estate in Bristol, con- and they are the parents of five children sisting of a hotel building, two dwellings, a Clementina Josephine, who died at the age large canal barn, and considerable unoccupied of two years ; Ivillian Hellings, born October land, which he still owns. In 1892, he pur- 7, 1879; Mathias John, born May 4, 1881, was chased the Delaware Hotel property, which educated in the schools of Villanova, Dela- consists of the hotel proper, a building uti- ware County, Pa., and in the Rider Business lized for a pool room, a store building on the College, at Trenton, N. J., and is now aiding opposite side of the street, a large barn, and his motlier in the hotel business ; Clementina

GEORGE WASHINGTON FACKENTHAL. ;;

BUCKS COUNTY 487

Josephine, born May 17, 1884, died February and influential farmers of the northern sec- his death, 9, 1885 ; and Lillian Clementina, who was tion of the county. At the time of

1 a born February 5, 1887. William J., born which was January 26, 846, he bequeathed December i, 1861, was the third child born handsome estate to his children. He was the

to our subject ; he married Clara Terry, and progenitor of five children, namely : Cathe- Maria, they have one child, William J., born in 1895. rine, the wife of K. Yonkin; Annie deceased John, married a Miss Adams ;

Peter, the father of our subject ; and Michael who wedded Anna M. Gillick. The wife of Michael was Christina Derr, a daughter of ; '.EORGE WASHINGTON FACK- '* ' ENTHAIvI/, ex-postmaster of Rie- John :Derr, of I^ehigh County, Pa. Peter gelsville, whose portrait appears on the op- Fackenthall was a life-long farmer, and pur- posite page, is descended from one of the sued that vocatioii on the farm now owned pioneer families of Bucks County, Pa., and by Jacob Richard. His life was a successful

is one of the prominent and influential citi- . one, and he succeeded in accumulating a zens of his community, of which he has so handsome competency by the time of his

long been a member. This worthy citizen ; death, which occurred at the age of seventy-

for life of Riegelsville was born in Durham, town- : one years. He chose his companion

ship, this county, March 29, 1836, and is a" , Elizabeth I^ong, who died aged eighty years; son of Peter Fackenthall, and grandson of they were the parents of a family of twelve Michael Fackenthall. children, 'all of whom grew to maturity and

The founder of this old and substantial a'ire wfell-to-do and prosperous citizens in the Pa., conlmUnities in -which they now reside. family in Bucks County, was' Philip ;

Fackenthall, the great-grandfatherof our sub- ; They were named as follows: Henry;

; ject, who sailed from Rotterdam, Holland, in Michael ;' Jonathan Peter; George Wash- " the ship Robert Nallis," and, after a success- ington,' our subject ; Samuel ; Rachael

ful voyage across the Atlantic, landed in the Sarah ; Elizabeth ; Catherine ; Matilda ; and city of Philadelphia in 1734. He at once Hannah. moved to the wild and uncultivated lands of George Washington Fackenthall acquired Springfield township, this county, where he a good education in the district schools of took up a large tract of land, a part of which his native township, and his youthful days he cleared, and pursued the vocation of a were spent assisting his father in the cultiva- farmer until death claimed him, which was tion of the farm ; after attaining his majority in 1755. His son Michael, the grandfather he began life as a farmer, which occupation of our subject, was one of a family of five he continued for eight years. At the end of children, and was born in Springfield town- that time he went to Riegelsville, N. J., ship May 23, 1756 ; he was reared to agricul- where he entered the employ of the paper tural pursuits, and was one of the wealthy mills of that village, and for twenty-one 25 488 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

years was finisher and shipper of the same. August, 1898, owing to the change of ad- Our subject for thirty-five years followed the ministration, our subject retired from the life of an auctioneer, and during this long position of postmaster, and opened up a meat

period he has cried over 1400 sales, and dur- market in the same building, and is now ing this time has also settled many estates. doing a thriving business. He has been a Mr. Fackenthall was postmaster of the vil- life-long Democrat, and has served as school lage for eight years. He has also served five director, auditor of Durham township and in years as justice of the peace. other ofiicial capacities. Both our subject In 1857 our subject was married to Mary and wife are members of the Reformed C. Hager, a daughter of Michael Hager, and Church. she died in 1865 aged twenty-seven years,

leaving two children, namely : Elizabeth, deceased, was the wife of Eugene Scott, and "f/^.ICENZA WETHERILI., who for many they reared one son, George ; and Jacob M, \^ years was a traveling salesman, rep- an insurance agent, who married Annie resenting various agricultural implement Marr, which union has been blessed by eight houses, but who for the past three years has children, five of whom are living, —Benja- been conducting the Doylesto'wn Agricultural

min, Frank, John, George, and Annie. Mr. Works, is one of the most prominent and in- Fackenthall formed a second marriage in dustrious citizens of that borough. He was 1870 with Mary Jane Mill, a daughter of born at New Galena, New Britain township,

John Mill, and widow of Joseph H. I/car, and this county, March 20, 1833, and is a son of she died in 1894, aged fifty-six years. Three Samuel and Elizabeth (Brown) Wetherill. children resulted from this union, namely: The grandfather of our subject was William Etta, Edith, and Uoyd. Our subject chose Wetherill, a native of Wrightstown township, as his third wife Sarah C. Tranch, widow of Bucks County, where he resided in one house Charles Wolf, and two children have been nearly all his life. His occupation was that born to them, —Grace and Bebtress, In 1862 of a farmer, in which he was very successful, our subject enlisted as sergeant in Co. F, owning at the time of his death a large tract 3 1st Regt. New Jersey Volunteers, and served of land. He was a deep thinker, a fluent nine months; he is now a member of the speaker and was local minister of the Metho- G. A. R. Post, of which he is past commander. dist Church. He married Hannah Phillips. Mr. Fackenthall some twelve years ago began Samuel Wetherill, our subject's father, was to gather colonial relics, and has succeeded born on his father's farm in Wrightstown in getting a large collection of ancient tools township, and at the age of nineteen years and other valuable ; relics he gave a large married, and with his wife moved to New collection of these relics to the Bucks County Galena, this county, where he purchased a Historical Society, and also a number to the tract of 100 acres of land and engaged in the University of Pennsylvania. On the ist of pursuits of an agriculturist. He erected a BUCKS COUNTY 489

grist and saw mill, -which he operated in con- an interest in the Doylestown Agricultural nection with his farm work. During the Works, and the business was conducted under winter months when work was slack, he the name of Martin & Wetherill for a period

taught in the district school. He was very of eight years ; our subject sold his interest prominent among the citizens of his district, to Daniel Hulshizer and became a traveling and served as justice of the peace fifteen salesman, representing the Doylestown Agri- years; politically, he was formerly an old cultural Works for eight years. He then line Whig, but became a Republican upon went to Lansdale, Montgomery County, Pa., the organization of that party, and was hon- and for nine years traveled for Heebner & ored by an election to the State I^egislature. Sons, manufacturers of agricultural imple- Our subject's father in 1854 moved to Harford ments; he then represented the Hulshizer

County, Md., and located near the village of ^; Agricultural Works of Doylestown, Pa., three

Bel Air ; having disposed of his property in years ; he next went on the road for the Cham- Bucks County, he then purchased a mill in pion Harvester Company of Springfield, Ohio, Harford County, which he operated but a and continued three years; after this he trav- short time, when he bought a farm and built eled for D. M. Osborne & Co. a short time, another ^mill, and operated both until his and lastly represented the Richisoh Manufac- death. He was a member and active sup- turing Company of Worcester, Mass., three porter of the Methodist Church, of which he years. In 1895 our subject purchased the was steward for many years, and he was also Doylestown Agricultural Works, which he a licensed exhorter. He was united in mar- has conducted to the present time, meeting riage with Klizabeth Brown, by whom he with the best of success. He manufactures reared a family of twelve children, four sons horse-power threshers, separators, fodder cut- and eight daughters. ters and does a general foundry business, em- Vicenza Wetherill was the fifth of his ploying 16 men.

father's children, and was reared in New Brit- Politically, Mr. Wetherill is a solid Repub- ain township and educated in the schools lican in his of ; religious belief he is a member

New Galena ; he also took three terms in a of the Methodist Church of Doylestown, Pa.

private school that was under the charge of He is a member of the I^ansdale Ivodge, I. O. Prof. Thomas Clark. His school vacations 0. F. Our subject was joined in the bonds and leisure hours were spent at work in his of matrimony with Mary Martin, of Stewarts-

father's mills, learning the trade of a miller, ville, N. J., and three children blessed their and attained his majority, when he his father home, namely : Nellie, a teacher in the pub- having moved with his family to Harford lic schools of Doylestown ; Maude is a teacher

County, Md., he was given charge of one of in the schools at Coatesville, Pa., and is a his father's mills, which he operated for three graduate of the Doylestown Seminary and years. Tn 1859, ^^ returned to Bucks County, the State Normal School of West Chester, locating at Doylestown, where he purchased Pa. ; and Claude, an employee of the firm of 490 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Bowker & Swain, of Philadelphia, who is a of compositor, but, being an earnest and con- graduate of the Doylestown public schools scientious worker of untiring energy, he soon and Prickett's Business College of Philadel- arose to a higher position, that of foreman phia. of the office. He served in the latter capacity until 1880, when he was again promoted, becoming editor of the sheet published,

RED CONSTANTINE, the popular which position he still fills. Although he and well-known editor of the Bucks left school at a very early age, Mr. Constan-

County Mirror, of Doylestown, is one of the tine is a man of scholarly attainments, hav- good substantial citizens of that borough and ing given up much of his time to reading

is one of the leaders of the Democratic party and study, thus becoming well qualified to the in this section. He is a son of Frederick , assume duties of his present charge. He and Margaret Constantine, and was born in is a deep thinker, a witty, and versatile

Doylestown, February 23, 1853. writer, and the editorials are the very life of

Frederick Constantine, Sr., was a native of the paper. For the past eight years, both Germany, and after his marriage came to German and English editions have been America in 1848, locating in Doylestown, printed and are widely read throughout the

where he resided until his death. His county. The Bucks County Mirror is a worthy wife has also passed into that coun- powerful expounder of Democratic princi-

try from which no traveler returns. ples, of which party he is one of the leaders Fred Constantine was intellectually equip- in this section. Mr. Constantine has been

ped for the battles of life in the public importuned to accept many offices, his first schools of Doylestown, one of his tutors be- official position being that of assessor of ing the Hon. Thomas McReynolds, who has Doylestown, to which he was elected in 1885. since represented this district two terms in He was elected to the same office in the two the State Legislature. At the age of twelve successive terms, each time by an increased years, he left school and became an appren- majority, which fact shows the rapidity in

tice to the trade of a printer in the oflfice of which he sprang into public favor and the the Bucks County Express and Reform, a character of his work. In 1892, he con- leading German paper of the time. After sented to become a candidate for school di- completing his apprenticeship, he spent three rector, and was duly elected for a three years' years in traveling about in the West, visiting term, the last two years of which he was in Nebraska, Wyoming and other Western chosen, by a unanimous vote of the members States. In 1873, he returned to his native of that body, president of the board. While borough and entered the ofSce in which he acting in that capacity, the borough was had learned his trade, but in which also an divided into wards, and at the expiration of English paper, the Bucks County Mirror, was his term, he was elected by the Second Ward then being printed. His first duty was that to represent them in that body, the Republi- ;

BUCKS COUNTY 491

cans placing no one in opposition as they con- of the following orders : Doylestown Lodge, sidered him the right man in the right place. No. 24s, F. & A. M., of which he is secre- He was again called upon to serve as president tary; Doylestown Chapter, No. 270, R. A.

and has continued as such up to the present M.; Doylestown Lodge, No. 94, L O. O. F., time. His term expired in February, 1898, of which organization he has been secretary

when he was again elected. In the spring of for 10 years past ; Doylestown Encampment,

1894, when the board of health was organ- No. 35, I. O. O. F.; Lenape Council, Royal ized, Mr. Constantine was appointed a mem- Arcanum, No. H17; and Doylestown Ger- ber and was chosen as president upon motion man Aid Society. He was formerly a mem- of ex-Congressman Robert M. Yardley. His ber of the Pennsylvania National Guards, in

term of three years having expired in 1895, which he was a first lieutenant when he re- he was re-elected to that body for three years, signed.

and again in 1 897 for five years, being chosen

president. He is a faithful and untiring worker in whatever capacity he is serving, Ml HOMASHOI O. ATKINSON, a scion of as his record will show upon examination alL an old and well established family of in his many }'ears of work upon the school Bucks County, and a prominent figure in the

board, he has missed but two meetings al- business circles of Doylestown, is a real es- though special sessions have been frequent tate broker and occupies the responsible posi- during the past few years. His record on tion of treasurer of the Bucks County Trust

the board of health is even better, for he has Company. He is a son of Edmund S. and not missed a single meeting, even under the Ruth (Simpson) Atkinson, and was born in

most trying circumstances. In 1 895 he was Wrightstown township, Bucks County, on the Democratic nominee for register of wills the 12th of October, 1834.

of Bucks County, but went down with the He is of English-Irish descent, and is de- remainder of the ticket in that year, although scended from John Atkinson, who lived in

he was the highest man on the Democratic England up to the year 1699, when he came ticket. to this country with his wife and family, In 1878, he was united in the holy bonds bearing a certificate from Lancaster Monthly of matrimony with Mary E. White, a daugh- Meeting of Friends, England, dated Febru-

ter of William W. White, who was for many ary 3, 1699, for himself, wife, and children, years a well-known resident of Bedminster to the Friends of the Province of Penn.

township. She is a descendant of the dis- It is presumed the parents died before the

tinguished Mickley family, numbered among ship landed in America, leaving three chil-

the pioneer settlers of Bucks County. This dren : William ; Mary ; and John. The lat- happy union resulted in the birth of three ter was the father of Thomas, whose son children, all of whom were taken away in Thomas, the great-grandfather of our sub- infancy. Socially, our subject is a member ject, in turn reared Timothy Atkinson, who ;

492 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

became a good substantial farmer of Bucks occupies that position. He is a man of

County. Bdmund S. Atkinson, the father of strict integrity, and excellent business quali- our subject, was a son of Timothy, and was fications, and his many financial transactions born in Bucks County. He took to agricul- have been attended with success. He is a man tural pursuits and owned a valuable farm in of public spirit and enterprise, and performs Wrightstown township, which he cultivated every obligation of a dutiful citizen. until the time of his death, which occurred In March, 1861, he was joined in wedlock in 1885, in his eighty-seventh year. The with Mary B. Heston of Buckingham town- farm is now occupied by his son, George G. ship. Mr. and Mrs. Atkinson are members Atkinson. He was a man of many good traits of the Society of Friends. of character, a successful business man, and stood high in the estimation of his fellow- citizens. His marriage with Ruth Simpson resulted in the following issue : Robert TT^HARI^ES MOORE CADWAIvI.ADER. Tliomas O., the gentleman whose name I Sr Among the prosperous and honored

heads these lines ; and J. Simpson, who has V,i£_^ members of the farming commun- been an active business man in the West for ity, scattered over the fertile fields of Bucks

some years and is now a resident of Spring- County, Pa., the subject of our sketch takes

field, Mo. a position in the front ranks. His home- Thomas O. Atkinson was reared on his stead comprises a finely cultivated tract of father's farm and attended the district schools land of 69 acres, located in Warrington town-

for some years. Upon leaving school, he ship ; it is embellished with an attractive engaged as a teacher in the common schools dwelling, good barns and out-houses, and

for a few years, or until he was twenty-four all the appliances and farming implements years of age. He then, in 1858, left his requisite to the carrying on of agricultural parental roof and moved to I^inn County, work in a proper and systematic manner. Kan., where he followed mercantile pursuits This highly esteemed resident of Warrington for about one year, after which he returned township was born in Philadelphia, Novem-

to Wrightstown township, Bucks County, ber 6, 1830, and is a son of Yarley and Chris- and followed the same line of business at tianna (Moore) Cadwallader, and grandson of Penn's Park. He continued there with un- Benjamin and Hannah (Bradfield) Cadwal- bounded success until his removal to Doyles- lader. town on January i, 1871, when he embarked Benjamin Cadwallader was a native of in the real estate business. He formed a Buckingham township, Bucks County, and

partnership with A. J. lyarne, who is now lived in that township all his active days, deceased, and subsequently with S. A. Fir- engaged in the cultivation of the soil ; his man. In 1886, he was elected treasurer of latter days were spent in Philadelphia, where the Bucks County Trust Company, and still he died about 1836. As a result of his union BUCKS COUNTY 493

with Hannah Bradfield a large family was widow of Samuel Ely, and she now resides reared, one of whom was Yarley, the father near Kansas City, Mo. The mother of our of our subject, who was born in Horshaui subject died in November, 1879. his broth- township, Montgomery County, Pa. ; during Charles Moore Cadwallader and his early manhood he moved to Buckingham ers and sisters were educated in the common township, this county, where he carried on schools and in the Friends' School at By- teach- farming until after his marriage, when he berry, Pa. , where some of them became moved to Moreland township, Montgomery ers in later years; at the age of eighteen

County ; his next move was to Abingtdn years our subject began to learn the trade of township, where he remained for a few years, a miller, working in Southampton township, when he changed his place of residence to this county. Four years later he rented a Byberry township, Philadelphia County, and mill and conducted the same on his own ac- there he farmed and conducted a general count for a period of two years ; in the spring mercantile store for ten years. Returning to of 1857, lie rented a farm in Upper Dublin Montgomery County, he purchased a farm in township, where he farmed until 1867, and Upper Dublin township, where he carried on then moved to his present farm. Our subject farming for twenty-one years ; he then moved has remained on his present farm thirty-one to Warrington township, and resided with years, during which time he has made many our subject until his death, which occurred improvements, and his farm ranks among in September, 1872. He married Christianna the best in the township. Our subject has Moore, and a family of eleven children blessed retired from the more active duties of life, their home, namely : Mary, born September and the farm is now being operated by his son.

28, 1820, is the widow of the late Thomas Mr. Cadwallader is an uncompromising

Ivightfoot; Peter, born June 4, 1822, died Republican, and, since attaining his majority,

July 8, 1850; Howard M., born September has never failed to cast his vote in support of

10, 1823, was married February 24, 1853, to his chosen party. Religiously, he and his Martha Agnew, and they reside in Norris- family are members and supporters of the town, Pa.; Sarah, born February 10, 1825, Friends' Meeting at Horsham, Pa. On Feb- died February 16, 1826; Susan, born March ruary 15, 1855, Mr. Cadwallader was united

4, 1826, died April 16, 1826; Joseph and in marriage with Anna Conrad, who was

Isaiah, twins, were born March 5, 1827, and born in Warwick township, this county, the former died August 18, 1827, and the February 16, 1830; she was a daughter of latter died a day later ; Elizabeth, born Au- Charles and Mary (Patterson) Conrad, both gust 31, 1829, is the widow of Francis Dia- of whom are now deceased. She died Jan- ment, and resides in Philadelphia; Charles uary 1 8, 1 890, after having given birth to the

Moore, our subject; Ruth Anna, born Octo- following children : Elizabeth D., born June ber 17, 1833, died October 4, 1835 ; and 16, 1856, the wife of George Corson, of Mont-

Sarah Ann, born September 24, 1836, the gomery County ; Gueilla Elma, born August ;

494 BOOK OF BIO-GRAPHIES

i8, 1861, died February S, 1865; Martha to New Britain township, where he remained

Agnew, born February 23, 1866, resides with until death claimed him. As a result of his her father; and Howard Moore, born Jan- union with Elizabeth Marple, a family of

uary 9, 1869, who also resides with Mr. Cad- five children was born, namely : Thomas, a wallader. resident of Doylestown, this county, was

married to Eliza Heaton ; Nathan M., the subject of this biographical sketch; Jacob, I^ATHAN M. WISER, an influential deceased, was a harness maker by trade, and I =f farmer and large property owner his wife was Mary Fisher, who is also de- -L V»_^ of Warrington township, Bucks ceased Louisa, a resident of Philadelphia ; County, Pa., owns and occupies a beautiful and one that died in infancy. homestead, known as the old McKinstry pro- Nathan M. Wiser possesses a common perty, which consists of 84 acres, and has a school education which he acquired in the commodious farmhouse, fine barns and out- schools of his native township; remained

houses erected by our subject, and all the under the parental roof assisting his father appliances of an intelligent and experienced until his marriage, when he settled on a farm

agriculturist. Our subject is truly a self- in Hilltown township, and there began to made man, having attained his present posi- carry on general farming on his own account. tion by his own industry, economy and per- Nine years later he located in Warwick town-

severance ; he has accomplished this by fair ship, where he followed his former occupa- means and enjoys the confidence and esteem tion until he came to his present farm, which

of the community of which he has so long is known as the McKinstry farm. The estate been a valued member. Mr. Wiser was born contains 84 acres of highly improved land, in Hatboro, Montgomery County, Pa., Sep- and since taking possession of the farm our tember 30, 1833, and is a son of Jacob and subject has replaced the old buildings and

Elizabeth (Marple) Wiser. outhouses by new ones, and is recognized as Jacob Wiser was born and reared at Mul- one of the leading farmers of Warrington lica Hill, N. J., and when a young man township ; he also owns two properties in moved to Montgomery County, Pa., where Philadelphia, which he rents. he operated a mill several years; in 1838, he Mr. Wiser is now a director of the Ambler became a resident of Warminster township, Bank, of Ambler, Pa., and has held that po- this county, and settled on his father-in-law's sition for several years. In politics, he is an farm, remaining there for a period of six uncompromising Democrat, and has always years at ; the expiration of that time he moved given his support in favor of his chosen to Warwick township, this county, and after party ; he has served as school director of his carrying on farming there three years, he pur- township for the past thirteen years. Frater- chased a farm in Hilltown township and pur- nally, our subject is a member of Doylestown sued his vocation until 1848, and then moved Lodge, No. 34, 1. O. O. F. ; religiously, he and

/f^l .&,

DR. ANDREW J. HINES. BUCKS COUNTY 497

his wife are devoted members of the Re- of the most vital importance. That Dr. formed Church and our subject has always Hines fully knows the ethics of his profes- taken an active interest in church work. sion, as well as the teachings, and every day

On November 12, 1857, Mr. Wiser was of his life lives up to them, admits of no dis- united in marriage with Wilhelmina Snyder, cussion. His high standing everywhere who was born in Hilltown township, October proves his fidelity to his patients' interests,

7, 1834. She is a daughter of John and Han- and his success proves his talents. He was nah (Jacoby) Snyder, both of whom are de- born on the old homestead in Warrington Bucks County, five miles south- ceased ; her father was a farmer all his life. township,

A family of six children were born to our west of Doylestown, on August S, 1826, and subject and wife, namely who died is a son of William C. and Elizabeth (James) ; John J.,

in infancy ; Lizzie H., who died at the age Hines. of that of three years and ten months ; Charles O., He comes of a prominent family who runs a boarding house at No. 709 Seven- community, and is descended from Mathew teenth street, Philadelphia, was married to Hynes, who. settled in this county in 1740.

Hannah Lazelere; Alfred died, aged seven He was born in Ireland in 171 8, and, accord- months; Emma M., the wife of Edmund L. ing to tradition, was a son of L,ord Mathew Thompson, a farmer residing at Mechanics^ Hynes, who was. a, member of the Irish Par-

ville, this county; and Walter B., who died- liament from 1697, to 17 10. Upon coming aged eight years. to the United States, Mathew Hynes located

in. , White Marsh township, Montgomery

Pounty-, , Pa., where he was married to a widow, Mrs. Ann Simpson, who by her for- marriage had one son, William Simp- R. ANDREW J. HINES, a gentle- mer

man of scholarly attainments, and son. They became the parents of three sons : B one of the oldest practitioners of Mathew ; Samuel ; and William, the grand- medicine of Doylestown, whose portrait the father of our subject. In 1773 Mathew publishers of this work present on the oppo- Hynes, Sr., purchased a tract of 500 acres of

site page, is a gentleman whose trained abil- land lying in Bucks and Montgomery Coun-

ity and skilled resources have brought him ties, of Delaney, the agent of the Penns. into public notice, and have won for him the This he subsequently divided among his regard, esteem and respect that are justly due three sons and his step-son, but the title was a man of his usefulness in the life of a com- not to take effect until each had an heir of munity. The work of a physician, from its twenty years of age. Mr. Hines was a trus-

innate nature, is of a kind that brings him tee of the Neshaminy Church in 1755, and into the closest relationship with the people. his son later became collector of pew-rents of The way in which he carries his heavy re- that church. He died on the old farm on sponsibilities is ever to the public a matter December 23, 1804, and was buried at Nesha- 498 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

miny, where a tombstone also marks the He was a progressive farmer, and lived upon

grave of his wife, who died in 1790, aged the homestead until his death, in 1858. In eighty years. his political affiliations he was a Democrat, In 1790 the four sons came into possession and held many local oifices. Religiously, of their respective shares of the property he was an active member of the Baptist granted by their father, and William, our Church, but his ancestors for many genera- subject's grandfather, received the northeast tions back had been Presbyterians. He was side of the tract, containing 112 acres, which united in marriage with Elizabeth James, a remained in the family for three generations, daughter of Abiah James, and four children

until 1895. Prior to 1790 the family name blessed their home, namely : Nathan J., de-

it was spelled Hynes, but has since been ceased ; Emeline E., deceased ; Elizabeth,

spelled Hines the entire family. William deceased Dr. , by ; and Andrew J. the subject of Hines was born on the old homestead, and this biographical record.

there lived all his life, engaged in the pur- Dr. Hines was reared on the farm, and suits of an agriculturist. He was one of the during his early boyhood days attended the heroes of the Revolutionary War, and served common schools, which were blessed with as first lieutenant in Captain Robert's Com- superior teachers for that day. He obtained pany of Volunteers for a time, and subse- a thorough English education, and subsequently held the command of a regiment of quently attended a private school, known as volunteers. At the time of the invasion of the Hermitage School, in Doylestown, under British, Philadelphia by the he was home on the preceptorship of Prof. T. J. Clarke, a a short furlough. He had taken his horse to fine classical scholar and an eminent educa- the blacksmith shop at Montgomery Square, tor. Of the class of ten of which he was a when news of the enemy's advance was member, all became professional men who brought ; sending the horse home, he imme- made their mark in the world ; eight became diately made his way to the head of the regi- physicians, one an able attorney, and another ment, rendering valuable services. He es- a minister. After leaving school our subject tablished an excellent record while in the read medicine under the late Dr. O. P. service, one of which his descendants may James, of Doylestown, and in 1853 was grad- justly feel proud. He was joined in wedlock uated from Jefferson Medical College. He with Elizabeth Harris, who died September then engaged in practice at Leidytown, Bucks 30, 1830, at the age of seventy-eight years. County, having purchased the practice and He died on January 17, 1830, in the eightieth property of Dr. Joseph Moyer, and continued year of his age, and lies buried in the New with much success for a period of eight years. Britain Graveyard. He then sold out to Dr. Moyer and located in William C. Hines, the father of our sub- Jarrettown, Montgomery County, where he ject, was one of a large family of children, succeeded to the practice and property of Dr. and was born on the old homestead in 1788. Albanus Styre, and practiced there until ;;

BUCKS COUNTY 499

1870. In that year he moved to Doylestown, riage with Jane Smith, who was born in where he has since been located and has an Upper Makefield township, Bucks County, extensive patronage. Owing to his declining October 5, 1789, and their union resulted in years he has decided to give up a portion of the following offspring : Mahlon, deceased his large practice and enjoy a much-needed deceased Eleanor, Mary, deceased ; Martha, ;

rest after so many years of unceasing ac- ; the deceased Timothy, deceased ; Joseph, tivity. subject of this biographical record ; Sarah

Dr. Hines was united in matrimonial bonds Jane, born October 7, 1825, the widow of Ben- with Anna M. Armstrong, June 5, i86o, and jamin W. Smith, resides near Holicong vil- they became the proud parents of three chil- lage with her daughter ; Ogborn, deceased dren, namely : Elizabeth A. ; Ella E- ; and a and Thomas Smith, deceased. Mrs. Atkin- son who died in early life. Socially, our sub- son was called to her home beyond the river ject is a prominent member of the Bucks of Death, July 23, 1867. County Medical Society, whilst in religious Joseph Atkinson received his mental train- attachments he is a member of the Baptist ing in the common schools, after which he Church. took up the occupation of a farmer, which he has since followed, although at the present

time he is living in practical retirement. He (JOSEPH ATKINSON, a prominent and has worked industriously, and by successful influential retired farmer of Bucking- management has accumulated considerable ham township, residing in lyahaska, property, having two or three farms in the owns considerable valuable property in Bucks vicinity of Lahaska. He is a man who has

County, and is a director of the Bucks County won the esteem and confidence of his fellow-

Trust Company. He is a son of Thomas and citizens by the honest and straightforward Jane (Smith) Atkinson, and was born in manner in which he conducted his business

Buckingham township, August 19, 1823. affairs, and the good-will which he manifests Thomas Atkinson, the father of our sub- toward all men. ject, was born in Wrightstown township, Mr. Atkinson was joined in wedlock with

Bucks County, October 8, 1786, and early in Eliza Hibbs, of Buckingham township, a life learned the trade of a blacksmith. He daughter of William and Margery (Kirk) followed that vocation for some time and Hibbs, the former of whom was an agricul- aided in building the old Doylestown Jail, turist. Four children were born to bless this

taking the contract for the iron work ; soon union : William, who married Elmira Har- after this he located upon a farm and engaged per, is an extensive farmer and operates a coal in the cultivation of the soil until his death, yard at Lahaska Station, being one of the which occurred July 3, 1864. He was a man good, reliable men of that section ; Thomas, of good principles and was well thought of a farmer of Solebury township, married Min-

by his fellow citizens. He was united in mar- nie Price ; Albert died in infancy ; and Mary 500 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

A., the wife of George Watson, who is assist- i Joseph Carrell, the father of our subject, ant trust officer in the Bucks County Trust was also born in Northampton township, the

Co., of Doylestown, Pa. Politically, he has date of his birth being June 1, 1792; his always been an active Republican, whilst in boyhood days were spent assisting his father religious views he is a consistent member of in the work about the farm, and at the same the Friends' Meeting of Buckingham. time he served an apprenticeship to the carpenter's trade. He continued at the occupation of a carpenter during his early manhood

in Springville, Northampton township ; from y|ZRAZRA P. CARREIylv. Among the pros- the latter township he moved to Warminster J— perous and well-to-do farmers of township, about 1823, and there he pur- Bucks County, Pa., who have succeeded in chased a farm, where he carried on general accumulating a competency through their farming until his death, which occurred industrious efforts and untiring energy, is April 20, 1883. Mr. Carrell was twice joined the gentleman whose name appears at the in wedlock ; his first wife was Mary Gill, a head of this notice, who has been living a native of Philadelphia, and she died April 3, retired life for more than a score and two 1828, leaving the following children : Hugh, years and is one of the worthy and honored born January 13, 1822, is a retired citizen of citizens of Warminster township. This es- Hatboro, Montgomery County, Pa., and he teemed gentleman was born in the, above wedded Abigail D. Addis ; Emily, born Jan- township i6, January 1826, and is a son of uary 21, 1824, died September 16, 1848; and Joseph and Mary (Gill) Carrell, and grandson Ezra P. , our subject. After the death of his of Jacob Carrell. wife, Mary, he married Anne Gill, a sister of The founder of this in family this country his first wife, and she died May 30, 1846; this was Carrell, James the great-grandfather of union was blessed by the birth of two chil- our subject, who was born and reared in the dren, namely: Sidney Ann, born August 30, north of Ireland and came in 1700 to this 1 83 1, is the wife of Thomas B. Montanye, a country. He took up a large tract of land farmer residing near Johnsville, Pa.; and in Northampton township, Bucks County, Elizabeth, born October 31, 1833, who is the Pa., and there carried on farming the rest of wife of Robert T. Engart, a prosperous his days. He was quite prominent in his farmer of Warminster township. fcommunity and was one of the founders of Ezra P. Carrell received his primary edu- the first church of his section of the county. cation in the common and private schools of Jacob Carrell, the grandfather of our subject, his native township, which was supplemented was born on his father's farm in Northamp- by a course in the academy at Hatboro, ton township, this county, and resided there Montgomery County, Pa. Returning to the following the pursuits of an agriculturist, in farm, he began the life of a farmer and after which he was remarkably successful. his marriage took possession of the home- ;

BUCKS COUNTY 501

stead, where he was engaged in farming for vember 25, 1857, 3. farmer of Warwick town- a period of twenty- seven years, and was ship, this county, wedded Mary S. McCarter;

recognized as one of the most progressive and and Stacy Beans, born April 23, 1866, a enterprising farmers of his community. At traveling salesman for a grocery house, who the expiration of that time, our subject pur- was united in the bonds of matrimony with

chased 3 acres of land of his father, and built lycah Reeves, and they reside at Glenside, his present home, where he has resided for Montgomery County, Pa.

the past twenty-two years, living in retirement, enjoying the fruits of his early labors. Our subject was an honor to his vocation,

and is a man widely known throughout the R. WII.LIAM S. ERDMAN, vice- township for his many sterling qualities. president of the Bucks County Mr. Carrell in his political views has been M Medical Society, is the only prac- a solid Republican since the formation of ticing physician and surgeon in the village

that party, but prior to that he was a sup- of Buckingham and its immediate vicinity,

porter of the Whig party ; he has served as where he has been pursuing his chosen call-

president of the Turnpike Company, as ing since November 2, 1896. This rising School director, and held a number of minor young physician was born and reared in township offices. Religiously, he and his Richland township, this county, the date of

family are members of the Presbyterian his birth being October 5, 1869, and he is a Church of Warwick township, and our sub- son of Owen and Mary Ann (Singmaster) ject is now elder of the same. Erdman. On the 15th day of March, 1849, Mr. Car- Owen Erdman was born and reared in

rell and Margaret I/. Beans were united in Lehigh County, Pa., and was educated to ag-

marriage ; she is a native of Warminster ricultural puj»uit$ ; he resided in his native township, the date of her birth being March county until the year 1863, when he moved

8, 1828, and she is a daughter of John C. to this county and settled in Richland town- and Elizabeth (Yerkes) Beans, both of whom ship as the Civil in ; War was progress he are now deceased ; her father was a farmer enlisted in Co. E, 3rd Reg. Pennsylvania throughout his entire life. Five children Reserves and participated in several engage- blessed the home of Mr. and Mrs. Carrell, ments, the most notable being the battle of namely: Joseph, born March .25, 1850, a Bull Run, where he received a wound, which farmer of Warrington township, this county, made it necessary for him to be sent to the was married to Elizabeth W. Hampton hospital. After peace had been proclaimed

John Beans, born July 11, 185 1, a practicing and Mr. Erdman had been honorably dis- physician of Hatboro, married I,izzie Danen- charged from further service he returned to hower; Emily, born March 29, 1853, ^^d Richland township, where he began buying

•died November 9, 1856; Ezra P., born No- and shipping cattle, and successfully con- ;;

502 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

tinued that line of business until a few years town ; and Knights of the Mystic Chain of ago, when he retired from the more active Buckingham. Religiously, he is a member duties of life and is now spending his latter of the I/Utheran Church of Richlandtown days in quiet and peace. Mr. Erdman was politically, he is independent in his views, joined in the bonds of matrimony with Mary always supporting the best man. Ann Singmaster, a native of Richland township, and to this union was born a family of four children, namely: Dr. Milton S., a practicing physician- of-Quakertown, this county; RESTON J. RICH, a sketch of whose n^^ Sarah Catherine, who resides with her elder life records a career of remarkable brother ; Dr. Wilson S. is one of the promi- activity and industry, is now living nent physicians of Richlandtown, Pa., —he in retirement upon his farm of 90 acres in

was wedded to Jennie Johnson ; and Dr. Wil- Buckingham township, Bucks County, on

liam S., the subject of this sketch. which he located shortly after his marriage Dr. William S. Erdman received his pri- in 1848. He always followed the vocation mary training in the public schools of his of a farmer and his efforts were crowned native township, and later attended the high with success, and this enables him to spend school at Quakertown, graduating in 1890; the declining years of his life in peace and he then went to Philadelphia where he began happiness, knowing that his labors have been

to study medicine, taking three terms, and well done. He is a son of Anthony and his spare time was spent working in a drug Maria (Mann) Rich, and was born in Buck- store. In 1896 he was graduated, and in the ingham township, Bucks County, October 17,

same year went to Atlantic City, N. J., where 1818. he practiced with Dr. Reed, of that city, until Anthony Rich, the father of our subject, November 2, 1896, when he came to his was born in Plumstead township, and early present field of operation, succeeding Dr. in life moved to Doylestown township, where Folk, who now lives retired. The Doctor is he engaged in farming for some time. He a very successful practitioner, is well read and next located in Buckingham township on the is an intelligent physician, and has proved estate now owned by his son Preston J., and his ability as a skillful physician by being there remained until his demise in 1843. He able to treat the most complicated of diseases. was united in marriage with Maria Mann, a Dr. Erdman has a handsome residence and native of Doylestown township, and their ofl&ce located on Main street, and he carries union resulted in the birth of fifteen children, a complete line of drugs. This prominent five of whom are living at the present time,

member of the medical fraternity is now serv- namely : John M., a resident of Solebury ing in the capacity of vice-president of the township, Bucks County; Preston J., the Bucks County Medical Society. He is also a gentleman whose name heads these lines member of the Knights of Malta of Quaker- Elmira, who resides in Solebury township ; BUCKS COUNTY 503

Anthony W., of Solebury township ; and in May, 1883. Politically, he has always Emily C, also of Solebury township. Those supported the principles of the Republican

deceased are : Benjamin Jonathan ; Maria party. In religious is ; ; attachments, he a Mary ; Martha ; Elizabeth Josiah member of the Presbyterian ; James ; ; Church of Doyles-

Sarah Ellen ; and Susan W. town.

Preston J. Rich was reared upon the farm and obtained his mental training in the common schools. He then took up the occupa- rr^ROF. HENRY F. REITER, notary tion of a farmer as a means of earning a com- "^ public and principal of the public

petency and soon after his marriage took schools of Trumbauersville, Pa., is

charge of his present estate, which he greatly one of the prominent citizens of that village, improved and successfully cultivated until his and was born near where he now resides Oc-

retirement, since which time his sons have tober 9, 1856, and is a son of Josiah and Eliz- conducted it. He has been a faithful hus- abeth (Faul) Reiter, grandson of Joseph and band, a kind father, and a good neighbor, Elizabeth (Heist) Reiter, and great-grandson and has won a high place in the esteem of of Michael Reiter. his fellow-citizens, who join in wishing him Joseph Reiter was of German descent and many years of continued happiness. was a native of Montgomery County, Pa. ; he On November 16, 1848, Mr. Rich formed was the father of four : children Tobias ; Ed- a marital union with Mary H. Atkinson, a ward Josiah and Maria. ; ; In 1829, with his

daughter of Abner and Sarah (Harvey) Atkin- family, he moved to what is now known as son the former a ; was blacksmith and farmer the Reiter homestead, and there he conducted by occupation and resided in Solebury town- a hotel and dealt extensively in cattle. Josiah ship. This union resulted in the following Reiter, our subject's father, was born in

issue: Anna C, born December 8, is 1849, Trumbauersville, this county, December 19, the wife of B. Frank Goss, a supervisor and 1832, and was educated in the private schools resident of Buckingham township ; Franklin of his native township, and took one term at born J., May 24, 1852, married Juliet Ivamb- Price's Seminary, at I,ine Lexington, Pa. rite they and reside in Buckingham town- Upon leaving school, he taught several terms,

ship ; Clinton A., who died at the age of one but early in life began dealing in cattle.

year and ten months Anthony , ; W. a fancy When a mere lad of fifteen years, his father fruit dealer of Philadelphia, born March 17, gave him money and sent him to Center •1857, married Celia Cousins; Florence A., County, Pa., a distance of 150 miles, to pur- born September 10, 1858, resides on the old chase a flock of sheep ; he was obliged to walk homestead ; and Carlton , E. a teller in the all the way, and he accomplished the feat in bank at Yardley, born February 2^ 1861, and sixty days. While stopping at Pottsville, married Carrie A. Rich. Mr. Rich was be- Pa., on his way home, dogs killed one-third reaved of his wife's companionship by death of his flock ; selling the remaining two-thirds. 504 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

he returned to Center County and purchased taught up to the present time. Our subject another flock and a horse, and again pro- was appointed notary public in 1891, which

ceeded on his way home. In the meantime office he still retains. Mr. Reiter is one of his father had become quite alarmed as to the the popular members of his community and

whereabouts of his son and started out to is a man greatly respected for his sterling meet him. When Josiah Reiter grew to ma- worth and integrity.

turity, he continued in dealing iu stock to Socially, Mr. Reiter is a member and past

within a few years of his death, when he master of the Masonic Order ; and is a mem- farmed. On the morning of April 28, 1884, ber and past chancellor of the K. of P. Mr.

he went into the fields in good spirits and ap- Reiter chose for his life companion Laura H.

parent good health with a new roller ; while Lynch, of Pennsburg, Pa., a daughter of

greasing the roller, the horses became fright- Thomas J. Lynch, first lieutenant in Co. C, ened and ran away. He jumped up from be- 51st Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf, who was mortally hind the roller and started for the horses, and wounded in the battle of Spottsylvania Court

had run a few rails' length, when he fell dead House, May 12, 1864. This union has been from heart failure. He was one of the promi- blessed by the birth of two children, namely.: nent valued citizens his and of community, J. Luther, a student ; and Emma, who died and his death was mourned by a large circle in her eighth year. Mr. and Mrs. Reiter are of friends who held him in dear esteem. Re- both members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. ligiously, he was a member of Christ's Evan- Reiter has always been a Democrat, as were gelical Lutheran Church of Trumbauersville. his forefathers before him. October 20, 1855, Mr. Reiter and Elizabeth Paul, a daughter of Christian and Elizabeth (Orange) Paul, of Pennsburg, Pa., were united in marriage, and they became the parents of LIAS HICKS PELL, one of the promi-

three children, : namely Henry P. , whose nent and sturdy farmers of the name heads the above lines ; Thomas Jeffer- central section of Bucks County, who has son and ; A. Sylvania. Rev. Prederick Waage been successfully engaged in farming all the

officiated at the baptism, confirmation and days of his life, resides on a rich and pro- marriage of our subject's father, and he also ductive farm consisting of 43 acres, which is baptized his three children. handsomely located in Buckingham town- Henry P. Reiter received his elementary ship, near the borough of Doylestown. He education in the public schools, and in 1876 was born on his present homestead, February graduated from the Keystone State Normal II, 1829, and is a son of EH and Rachaeil School, of Kutztown, Pa.; in 1873 lie com- (Bradshaw) Pell. menced teaching and taught school two terms Eli Pell was born and reared on our sub- in Ivchigh County, Pa., and then located in ject's present farm, and was educated to Trumbauersville, where he has remained and agricultural pursuits, which occupation he

JOSEPH N. SCOTT. BUCKS COUNTY 507

followed throughout his entire life ; he was ers of Buckingham township, and commands very successful in the prosecution of this vo. the respect and confidence of a large circle of cation, which was wholly due to his good acquaintances.

management of the farm and his improved Mr. Fell chose for his life companion Mary methods of farming. Mr. Fell was recognized Emma Dudley, and they were happily united

as one of the progressive members of his in marriage October 16, 186 1. She was born

community, and was a man well known in Burlington County, N.J,, August 10, 1843,

throughout the township; he served his fel. and is a daughter of Elwood and Sarah low-countrymen in several township offices. (Haines) Dudley. Residing with our subject

Mr. Fell was united in the bonds of matri- is Mrs. Rebecca A. Reed, a -sister of Mrs. mony with Rachael Bradshaw, who was born Fell, and her daiighter, Mary E. Politically, in Montgomery County, Fa., and this union our subject adheres to the principles of the was blessed by the birth of fourteen children, Republican party. In religious belief Mr.

three of whom are still living and are named Fell is a member of the Friends' Meeting at

as follows : Rachael, the wife of Wilson Pear- Buckingham. son, a prominent farmer of Solebury town-

ship, this county, who is represented on another page of this work with a portrait and OSEPH N. SCOTT. Prominent and

sketch of his life ; Elias Hicks, the subject of influential among the leading and en-

this brief notice ; and Hulda, Ann, widow of terprising business men of the village the late John M. Kirk,—she now resides in of Penn's Park, is the gentleman whose bi- Buckingham township, Bucks County. Mr. ography we write, and whom we represent

Fell entered the world of rest March 3, 1859; with a portrait that appears on the opposite the mother of our subject passed from this page. He is doing his share toward the pros-

earth March 15, 1851. perity and building up of the community,

Blias Hicks Fell received his early .mental and is recognized as being the largest pork training in the district schools of his native packer and commission merchant in his sec- township, and spent his boyhood days work- tion of the county.: He is also the proprietor ing with his father about the farm, thus of the well-known Penn's Park Hotel. He acquiring a good education in the art of is a native of Newtown township, being born farming. Upon the death of our subject's on his father's farm August 31, 1862, and is father, he took charge of the property, and a son of Thomas B. and Annie (Wanamaker) has been engaged in agricultural pursuits up Scott. to the present time; our subject has made Thomas B. Scott was also born in New- many improvements upon the farm since town township, and was engaged in farming taking possession of it, and it now ranks and stock-raising, in which he was quite suc- among the best in the community. Mr. Fell cessful. He now resides in Buckingham is one of the prosperous and energetic farm- township, where he owns a fine farm. As a 26 ;:

5oS BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

result of his union with Annie Wanamaker, a miller, residing in Wrightstdwn township. who was a native of Center Bridge, Pa., a Mr. and Mrs. Scott are the parents of one family of six children was born, namely child, Norman, born in October, 1887. Re-

Winfield, deceased ; Victoria, deceased ; Anna ligiously, he and his family are attendants of

Permelia, deceased ; Thomas B., deceased the Methodist Church, of which ; Mrs. Scott

Joseph N., our subject ; and Bella A., who is a member. Politically, he has always been resides with her parents. a decided Democrat, while fraternally, he is

Joseph N. Scott attended the common a member of the Jr. O. U. A. M. ; and the A. schools and Newtown Academy, but received O. U. W. of Newtown. the better part of his education through actual business experience. After our subject's marriage, he took charge of the old homestead in Newtown township for three years ; (^JY^^ER'^ KASTBURN. Of those who he then went to Upper Makefield township, fjX are engaged in the prosecution of where he drove a wagon one year, after which >''"'» V._^ the calling of a farmer in Bucks he embarked in business for himself, selling County, Pa., the gentleman whose name ap- butter and eggs. That business was contin- pears at the head of these lines takes a prom- ued six years, when he located in Penn's inent part. He is descended from an old and Park, and in the spring of 1894 bought his pioneer family of this county, and his pres-

present establishment ; he kills some 6000 hogs ent homestead, which is located in Upper per year, calves, 500 makes some 300 pounds of Makefield township, was first settled upon by butter per week handles ; many cases of eggs his great-grandfather. He was born in the and ships many broilers to the markets of the above township, November 24, 1855, and is a large cities. has He established a very large son of John S. and Martha (Hillborn) East- patronage, which is constantly increasing, burn, and grandson of Bazeleel and Ruth and is well worthy of the success with which Eastburn.

he is meeting ; he is an energetic and popular The Eastburn family is of Scotch descent, citizen and is a favorite in both business and and this branch of the family was founded social circles. He purchased the Penn's Park in America by John Eastburn, the great- Hotel when he became a resident of the vil- grandfather of our subject, who, coming to lage, and is a genial and hospitable landlord this ; new and uncultivated country, took up in his hotel he keeps a confectionery stand, a tract of land in Upper Makefield township, selling all kinds of candies, ice cream and soft this county, a part of which constitutes our drinks. subject's farm. Bazeleel Eastburn, our sub- Mr. Scott was wedded January 29, 1885, to ject's grandfather, was born in Upper Make- Anna Worthington, of Wrightstown town- field township, and his life's vocation was ship, and a daughter of Alfred H. and Wil- also that of a farmer. His wife was Ruth helmina (Ruth) Worthington ; her father is Stocktell, and of their children was John S., BUCKS COUNTY 509

our subject's father, who was born in Upper Elizabeth Booz, a native of Solebury town- Makefield township on the homestead. He ship, and a daughter of Walker C. and Eliza- was engaged in the cultivation of the soil beth (Price) Booz; her mother is deceased, until his death, which occurred in 1873. He and her father is following his trade as a was joined in marriage with Martha Hillborn, carpenter at New Hope, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. a native of Wrightstown township, this coun- Eastburn are the parents of three children,

ty, and she now resides in Newtown, this namely : Mary ; Alice ; and John S.

county. She is the mother of a family of

five children, named as follows : Rebecca, the wife of Horace T. Smith, a farmer of Upper Makefield township ; Albert, our sub- IIvSON S. ERDMAN, M.D., one ject, was next in order; Ruthanna is the Wtof the rising young physicians of wife of Thomas Briggs, a resident of New- the village of Riclilandtown, Pa., who has town, and his sketch may also be found in been practicing in that vicinity since 1893, this Book of Biographies ; Ellen is the wife and who may be justly classed among the of George H. Thompson, who is clerking foremost of his profession in his district, was

in a store in Philadelphia ; and Edward, who born in Steinsburg, Bucks County, Pa., the died in infancy. date of his birth being October 5, 1868. He Albert Eastburn remained on the farm in is a son of Owen and Mary Ann (Singmas- early life, and attended the common schools ter) Erdman, grandson of Daniel and Maria of his native township. After his marriage (Bitts) Erdman, and great-grandson of John in 1877, he took possession of the homestead Erdman- property, and has since continued agricul- John Erdman was born and reared in tural pursuits. His farm consists of acres, 97 Holland, Germany ; early in life he bade which he has put under a fine state of culti- farewell to his native country and immi- vation, and the improvements are among the grated to America, locating at Limeport, best found in the township. In connection Lehigh County, Pa., where he took up a with his farming he is also engaged in pigeon large tract of land and pursued the vocation raising, he now having some 240 pairs, and he of a farmer. His son Daniel, the grand- ships many hundreds yearly to the markets father of our subject, was born on the home- of York City. New stead at Limeport, Lehigh County, and his In political views, Mr. Eastburn is a Re- boyhood days were spent tilling the soil on publican socially, he is ; a member of Lodge his father's farm, and when he grew to ma- No. I. O. O. F., of 300, New Hope; in relig- turity he followed the occupation of an agri- ious views, he and his family are members of culturist ; later he conducted a hotel in addi- the Friends' Meeting at Wrightstown. On tion to farming. He passed from life at a the fourth day of September, 1877, Mr. East- ripe old age, the cause of his death being: burn was joined in matrimonial bonds with typhoid fever. He was joined in the bonds of ; ;

5IO BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

wedlock with Maria Bitts, and they reared the Dr. Wilson S. Erdman received his intel- training in the Quakertown High following children : Owen, the father of our lectual subject; Daniel was united in marriage with a School and the West Chester State Normal. entered a drug store at No. Miss Huber ; Maria is the wife of a Mr. Huber School and then and Sally, the wife of Abraham Moyer. 22 Chestnut street, Philadelphia, as a clerk Owen Erdman was born and reared on his studying medicine there a short time, he en- father's farm in I^ehigh County, Pa., and his tered the Medical Department of the Medico- education was acquired in the district schools Chirurgical College and was graduated with year following his of his native township ; he ran his father's the class of 1892. The hotel prior to his moving to Steinsburg, this graduation, he served on the medical staflf county, where he purchased a farm and of the Medico-Chirurgical Hospital, and in entered the cattle business, eventually drift- 1893 he came to his present field of opera- ing into the commission business ; moving tion, where he has pursued his chosen pro- to the city of Philadelphia he conducted a fession with marked success. Dr. Erdman commission house, handling produce from his is well-informed and skillful in his profes- farm and from the farmers of his community. sion and enjoys a lucrative practice. He is Returning to Bucks County he settled in ambitious and energetic, and keeps abreast Richland Center, where he began making with all the advancements of the day relative leather fly-nets for horse and harness; he to his profession, and among his patrons are followed that occupation until the Civil War included some of the best people of the broke put when he enlisted in the Union township. The Doctor always keeps the Army. He served as a member of Co. E, best of horses of which he is a lover, and Third Regiment, Pennsylvania Reserves, upon receiving a call from one of his being engaged in the quartermaster's depart- patrons, he may be depended upon to ar- ment. Our subject's father was united in rive at his destination in the shortest pos- marriage with Mary Ann Singmaster, and sible time, as he takes great pride in riding they reared a family of three 5ons and one behind some of the fastest horses in the

daughter, namely: Milton S., one of the township, which he utilizes in answering leading physicians and surgeons of Quaker- calls promptly.

town, Pa., —he is a graduate of Bellevue Hos- In 1896, Dr. Erdman built a handsome pital Medical College of New York City, residence and office combined, 45 by 46 feet,

graduating with the class of 1883 ; Sarah of Rockhill granite, and it contains all the Catherine is a professional nurse and resides latest and modern conveniences. The Doc- at Quakertown Wilson the subject ; S., of tor was wedded to Mary J. Johnson, a daugh- this brief notice; and William S., who is also ter of H. W. Johnson, whose sketch may a practicing physician and surgeon, pursuing also be found in this Book of Biographies. his profession in the village of Buckingham, One child blessed the home of this union, Pa., and vicinity. : namely Johnson Stewart, who was ; born BUCKS COUNTY 511

July 5, 1896. Fraternally, the Doctor is a agent on the Pennsylvania Railroad at member of the K. O. T. M.; K. of G. E.; Riegelsville, who are twins. and the Brotherhood L,odge. Both our sub- John T. Poore received a good education ject and his wife are members of the Luth- in the common schools, after which he took

eran Church. Politically, the Doctor is a charge of the homestead property. He has Democrat. made material improvements in both land and buildings and has continued to carry on farming up to the present time. His untir- pOHN T. POORE, county commissioner ing energy and industry, coupled with his and a prominent and influential farmer shrewdness in business transactions, has re- of Upper Makefield township, Bucks sulted in his success, and he has amassed con- County, resides on the old family estate near siderable in the way of the world's goods Buckmanville, upon which he was born during his many years of activity. Politi-

December 18, 1829. He is a son of Daniel cally, he is a stanch Republican, and has fre-

and Maria (Merrick) Poore. quently served in an ofl5cial capacity ; he

Daniel Poore, the father of our subject, was assessor in Upper Makefield township

was born in Solebury township, but early in for fifteen years, beginning in 1882; was the nineteenth century located in Upper Make- supervisor of the township for five years;

field township, upon the property now owned and on January i, 1897, was elected a county

by the gentleman whose name heads these commissioner, which ofiice he still retains, lines. He erected buildings in 1818, greatly and is filling to the entire satisfaction of his

improved the soil, and engaged in the culti- constituents. He is a man of high princi-

vation of it for many years. He was elected ples and possesses the respect of all with justice of the peace at New Hope, whither whom he comes in contact, both in business he went to live and continued as such for ten and social circles. years, or until 1842, when he returned to his In February, 1861, Mr. Poore was united

farm and engaged in farming until his death, in Hymen's bonds with Rachael Lefferts, April 12, 1888, at the ripe old age of ninety- who was born in Southampton township,

four years and six months. He was joined May 19, 1836, and is a daughter of Elias and in wedlock with Maria Merrick, a native of Margaret (Search) Lefierts. Elias Lefferts, a Upper Makefield township, who was called farmer and laborer by occupation, died Feb-

to the land of rest October i, 1879. Their ruary 12, 1880, but his wife still survives happy union resulted is in the following issue : him and living in Southampton township, Eliza, deceased, was the wife of George F. at the advanced age of eighty-five years. Two Smith, is who also deceased ; Martha, the children have blessed our subject's home. relict of Bryce M. Pursell, residing at Bristol, Augustus, a conductor on the railroad, was Pa., with her son. Dr. Pursell ; and John T., born January 11, 1863, and formed a matri- our subject, and Robert Alpheus, express monial alliance with Josephine Van Pelt; ;

512 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

he resides in Norristown, Pa. Elias Iv-, born many, at an early date ; upon arriving in

April 3, 1864, was married to Theodora Wil- America, one took up his residence in the liamson, and lives in Frenchtown, N. J., state of Ohio, the other settled in Lancaster, where he conducts a general furnishing store. Pa., and Andrew located on a large tract of

Mr. and Mrs. Poore are both faithful mem- land in Milford township, Bucks County, Pa., bers of the Presbyterian Church of Solebury, near the village of Trumbauersville, which of which he is a trustee. was named in his honor. His oldest son, Henry, was born near Trumbauersville in

174s, and died November 13, 1813. As a result of Henry's marriage with Veronica ARON R. TRUMBOWER. Of the Yelles, a son, Henry, was born, the date of k-A enenterprising and successful business his birth being 1774; he was reared on his men of Springfield township, who father's farm, and in addition to carrying on have contributed their share toward main- general farming when he grew to maturity, he taining and building up the village of Passer, successfully operated a tannery and resided the gentleman, whose name heads this notice, on the farm now owned by Lewis Trumbauer, is one who has taken a prominent part. Mr. who now lives in Norristown, Pa. He passed

Trumbower is at present serving in the capa- from earth in 1831 at the age of fifty-seven city of postmaster of the above village, and years. His second son was Henry, the

is also successfully engaged in the mercantile grandfather of our subject, who was born on business, being the proprietor of one of the the homestead in Richland township, June largest and best-kept general stores in Spring- II, 1801, and died there August 21, 1873. field township. Our subject was born in the His younger days were spent working in his house in which he now resides, the date of father's tannery and upon his farm, and when

his birth being May 27, 1859, and he is a son he attained his majority took charge of the of Henry T. and Elizabeth (Ranch) Trum- same and successfully engaged in the two in- bower, grandson of Henry and Sarah (Treich- dustries named above until death claimed ler) Trumbower, great-grandson of Henry him. He was joined in marriage with Sarah

and Elizabeth (Frick) Trumbower, and great- Treichler, who was born September 4, 1802,

great-grandson of Henry and Veronica (Yel- and died February 9, 1866. This union was les) Trumbower. blessed by the birth of the following children

The prominent and distinguished Trum- Henry T., the father of our subject ; Hannah,

bower family, that has been long established born February 2, 1826; Olive died young;

in this county, is of German descent, and the Aaron, born in 1832 ; Reuben T., born in founder of the branch of the Trumbower 1834; Lewis T. , born in 1837; and Andrew

family in America, to which our subject be- J., born in 1843.

longs, was Andrew Trumbauer, who with his Henry T. Trumbower was of the fifth two brothers left his native country, Ger- generation of this family and was born in ,

BUCKS COUNTY 5'3

Richland township, this county, February i, and to this marriage the following children

1824; he grew to maturity on his father's were born : Milton R., born May 18, 1850,

farm, where he was reared to agricultural and who married Nancy A. Stoner, is a prac- pursuits and to the occupation of a tanner. ticing physician of Monett, Mo., and was Becoming dissatisfied with his trade, he took veterinary surgeon of the state of Illinois for to teaching, which profession he continued a four years when he was a resident of that

number of terms, when he purchased the state; Sarah Ann, born August 11, 1851, died mercantile business of Amos Snyder, in in 1858 ; Emma Malinda, born April 25, 1854, Springfield township, and carried on that line is the wife of Rev. Peter A. Grover, of

of business in that place four years ; he also Phoenixville, Pa. ; Henry R., born September

purchased the Joseph Moyer property and the 9, 1856, died in 1876 ; A^ron R., the subject hotel conducted by Henry Beidler at Fair- of this biographical sketch ; and Julia Ann, mount, Springfield township. Mr. Trum, born December 22, 1865, and died in 1866.

bower erected a house and a large store and- Aaron R. Trumbower received his intel- closing the hotel, devoted his entire attention lectual training in the district schools of his to the mercantile business, which he success- native township and at Muhlenberg Academy fully carried on for a period of thirty-five of Allentown, Pa. He then taught school,

years. At the expiration of that time he and, during the suijimer months while at sold his stock of goods to his son Aaron R. home, assisted his father in the store, thus our subject, and retired from the more active becoming well acquainted with that line of duties of life. Mr. Trumbower established a business. In 1882, when his father retired reputation as a man of many sterling busi- from the mercantile business, our subject ness qualities, and his honest and straightfor. purchased the entire stock, which he has since ward business methods won for him the re- greatly enlarged, and now conducts one of the spect and confidence of the entire community. largest general mercantile stores in Spring- His demise occurred April 30, 1893, and his field township. The store could never have death was not only mourned his by wife, a been placed in a more suitable location ; it devoted companion, and a large family of not only commands a beautiful view of the children, who always loved and honored him," surrounding country, but is located in the but by a large circle of acquaintances. Our heart of one of the best farming communi- subject's father served as justice of the peace ties in Bucks County. In 1893, our subject from 1856 to 1893, and as county auditor from purchased the homestead upon which he has

1 86 1 to 1864. Religiously, he was a consis- since made improvements, and where he now tent member of the Lutheran church. Octo- resides. ber 29, 1S48, Mr. Trumbower was wedded to Mr. Trumbower in 1893 was appointed jus- Elizabeth Ranch, who was born in Berks tice of the peace, and in 1888 he established County, Pa., March 29, 1830, and is a daugh- a post oflSce and called it Passer instead of ter of' David and Sarah (HoflFman) Rauch, Fairmount, and since January i, 1898, has ;

514 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

served as postmaster. He is. also a director which he lived. He was united in marriage of the Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company. with Mary Vasey, by whom he had five chil- He was united in the bonds of matrimony dren, namely: Emma R., the wife of James with Amelia Koch, a daughter of Daniel and Anderson, whose life sketch appears in this Mary (Stohl) Koch, and they are the parents work Pearson, a coal and lumber dealer of ;

of three children, namely : Henry Roscoe, Buckingham Valley; Edwin J., the subject

who is attending the Lehigh Preparatory of this personal history ; I^aura, deceased ; and

School of Bethlehem, Pa. ; and Mabel Eliza- William, deceased. Mrs. Kirk died when our beth and Paul, who are both living at home. subject was quite young, and Mr. Kirk formed Our subject and family are members of the a second alliance wath Hulda Fell, who now

I/Utheran Church. Fraternally, he is a mem- lives at Forest Grove, and they had one child : ber of the Masonic Order, No. 469, F. & A. M. Harry W., a farmer residing at Forest Grove.

and the Allen Chapter, No. 203. In politics Our subject's father was called to his final our subject is a Democrat, but holds himself rest in 1893. for ready to vote whom he considers most fit Edwin J. Kirk obtained a good common to serve the people. Mr. Trumbower stands school training and lived upon the farm until high in the estimation of his fellow-men, and he embarked in the mercantile business at

is one of the most prosperous and highly re- Holicong, and opened the only store of its spected citizens of Bucks County. kind in the village. He purchased a superior line of goods, and by his enterprise and the courtesy, which he extended toward his customers, gained the patronage of the leading jDWIN KIRK, a prosperous ~CjDWI> J. and en- citizens in the village and vicinity, which he terprising J dealer in general mer- retains to the present day. Realizing the chandise in the villages of Holicong and necessity for a similar store at Buckingham Buckingham Valley, Bucks County, is a Valley, he established one there which has highly esteemed resident of the former place, flourished and is in a prosperous condition. of which he has also served as postmaster In 1880, Mr. Kirk was joined in Hymen's since June 2, 1881. He is a son of M. John bonds with Mary Trego, a native of Pineville, and Mary (Vasey) Kirk, and was born in Bucks County, and a daughter of Dr. Albert Buckingham township, Bucks County, Pa., Trego. Dr. Trego had a large practice at Septembers, 1855. Pineville, where he was one of the most John M. Kirk, our subject's father, was born prominent citizens. Two children were born in Bucks County, on a farm, and was reared to bless this union, namely : Newton ; and to agricultural pursuits, following that occu- Robert. Our subject is a man of learning, pation throughout life. He was a man of well-read and versed in all topics of interest high character and was possessed of many to the people, and takes an active interest in friends throughout Buckingham township, in the development of Holicong. Politically,

JOHN B. WALTER. MRS. ADELINE E. WALTER.

BUCKS COUNTY 519

he is a Republican and has served as post- was joined in inarriage with Deborah Brun-

master since June 2, 1881. He is an active ner, a daughter of John Brunner, who was a

worker in the Doylestown Lodge, No. 93, hotel keeper in the city of Philadelphia,

I. also the Encampment. Re- having at earlier period O. O. F. ; and an worked at farm-

ligiously, both he and his faithful wife are ing and milling; he is now deceased. The

members of the Friends' Meeting of Buck- mother of our subject died in 1874, and she

ingham. was the mother of six children, namely : John B., the subject of this sketch ; George, a plasterer of Doylestown, wedded Mary Young; 'OHN B. WALTER, one of Bucks Catherine is the wife of William A. Smith, a

County's prominent and progressive hardware merchant of Newtown, Pa. ; Eliza-

farmers, and highly respected citi- beth is the widow of John Marks, and she

zens, is located on a handsome farm in War- now resides in Philadelphia, where she is

rington township, consisting of 131 acres of engaged in dressmaking; Anna M. is the

highly cultivated land. He is a self-made wife of Joshua W. Scott, who is a retired man in every respect, having started out in farmer and cattle dealer of Doylestown; and

life without a dollar, but rich in determina- Frances, who is the wife of Preston Bissey, a

tion and perseverance, and is now the pos- carpenter by trade, and they live in Phila- sessor of a fine estate. He was born in the delphia.

above township, February 14, 1835, and is Our subject received a common school edu- a son of Samuel and Deborah (Brunner) cation and after marriage took charge of the

Walter. homestead, where he has since resided and is George Walter, the grandfather, was a considered one of the valued members of the blacksmith at Doylestown, Pa., during his community. He has made many improve- early manhood, but later moved to Warring- ments upon the homestead since taking pos-

ton township and settled on what is now our session of it, and it ranks among the best

subject's present farm. Before moving on farms in his section of the township ; in ad- the farm he operated a saw mill and followed dition to carrying on general farming, he is blacksmithing, his wife taking charge of the also engaged in stock-raising. saw mill a good part of the time. Samuel Mr. Walter was married December 2, 1856, Walter, the father, was born in Warrington to Adeline E. Hoover, a native of Warring- township on the present homestead and was ton township and a daughter of Frederick reared to agricultural pursuits, which occu- W. and Maria (Fleck) Hoover, the former a pation he followed all his active days. He farmer and a native of Warrington township, was a very prominent man of his day and and the latter a native of Montgomery Coun- was at one time a candidate on the Republi- ty, Pa. A family of eight children has can ticket for the State Legislature. He en- blessed the home of our subject and wife, tered the world of rest in the year 185 1. He namely: Mary H., a school teacher; Ida 520 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Elizabeih, the wife of Frank I,arzalere, a Ely has had much experience in this line of

farmer of Warrington township ; Maria, the business, and is a man well worthy of being wife of Edwin Garges, a farmer of Doyles- at the head of. a company so well known. town, Pa.; Willie died aged nineteen years; Our subject has always been identified with

Samuel died aged two years; Andrew J. is the growth of his native county, and is re- preparing himself for the ministry at New garded as one of the substantial members of

Brunswick College; Gertrude died aged six his community ; he was born in Solebury

years; and Mattie h- is the wife of H. Mar- township, this county, June 27, 1862, and is tyn McKinstry, and they reside on a farm a son of Joseph and Martha (Stout) Ely. adjoining the one owned by our subject. Joseph Ely was also born in Solebury town- Politically, Mr. Walter is a Democrat and ship, Bucks County, and was reared to agri-

has served nineteen years as school director cultural pursuits, which vocation he is at and has held several minor township offices. present pursuing in his native township. Socially, he is a member of Doylestown For many years he was engaged in trucking, Lodge, No. 245, F. & A. M.; Doylestown but has since devoted his attention to general Chapter; Pennsylvania Commandery, No. farming. As a result of his marriage with 70, Knights Templar of Philadelphia; and Martha Stout a family of five children was I. O. O. F., Warrington Lodge, No. 447. reared, namely : Franklin, the subject of this Mr. Walter and family are prominent mem- sketch ; Nathan, a harnessmaker, who re- bers of the German Reformed Church, and mains at home assisting his father; Cathe- all take an active interest in church work. rine, the wife of John Worthington, of Tre- We take pleasure in announcing that por- vose, this county ; Ella was united in marriage traits of Mr. and Mrs. Walter appear on pre- with Albert Worthington, and they reside at ceding pages. Bridge Valley, Pa. ; and Rachael, who remains at home. Our subject possesses a common school education, which he acquired in the schools U'rANKUN Among the largest ELY. of his native township ; early in life he began

_L « . eedsmen and florists of the Keystone to work out on a farm, and, at twenty-one State is The Samuel Wilson Company, one years of age, went to Mechanicsville, where of the oldest and most reliable firms of its he entered the employ of Samuel Wilson, and, kind in the state, and is well known through- after becoming thoroughly acquainted with state in out every the Union. This Company, that line of business, some six years later which is located in the village of Mechanics- moved to Doylestown, where he embarked ville, Buckingham township, Bucks County, in a like business ; after two years of that was established by Samuel Wilson more than business on his own account he re-entered a score of years ago, and since his death Mr. the employ of Mr. Wilson, and worked in Ely has had possession of the same. Mr. his store at Doylestown. Upon the death of ; ;

BUCKS COUNTY 521

our subject's employer Mr. Ely purchased Flack, a daughter of J. Mathias and Sarah the business at Mechanicsville, and has since Jane Flack, who reside in Forest Grove, Pa., devoted his entire attention to the seed busi- and this union has been blessed by the birth ness. He operates a large building and 20 of three children, named as follows : Florence acres of land, from which he raises his seed. May ; Sarah Jane ; and Harold R. Politi- fra- In connection with this business our subject cally, our subject is a solid Republican ;

has a small printing office;, and during each ternally, he is a member of the I. O. O. F.,

year he prints labels, seed bags, circulars, etc. Aquetong I,odge, No. 193, of Doylestown,

50,000 catalogues, which are annually distri- Pa. ; and Knights of the Golden Eagle, Dan- buted throughout the l/nited States, are boro Castle, No. 137, of Danboro, Pa. Reli- printed in Philadelphia. Our subject makes giously, he and his family are devoted mem-

a specialty of seed wheat, seeds of all kinds bers of the Baptist Church of Doylestown. of small fruits and flowers, fancy poultry and German hares. Wilson's New Red Wonder Wheat, one of our subject's specialties, has been tried in almost every section of the OHN K. DUNGAN has been living in United States, and the results have been most retirement since 1888, having accu- gratifying. At the World's Eair, Chicago, mulated a competency in the prosecu-

111., 1893, Samuel Wilson made an exhibit tion of the calling of a farmer ; he is now of thirty different varieties of winter wheat, spending his declining days in happiness and

all of his own growing ; among these was comfort, on his fine farm in Northampton the New Red Wonder, which was pro- township, where he is surrounded by a mul- nounced by competent and experienced tude of friends who respect his many sterling judges to be one of the best milling wheats qualities. He was born in the above town-

out of more than five thousand samples ex- ship June 27, 1826, and is a son of Jesse and hibited at the Exposition. Adreann (Cornell) Dungan.

At Mr. Wilson's death, in 1897, Mr. Ely The grandparents of our subject were Isaac assumed charge and carried on the business and Mary (Dyer) Dungan, the former also a under the style of The Samuel Wilson Com- native of the above township and the latter of pany, as noted above. Among our subject's Frankford, Pa. Isaac Dungan was a farmer specialties in the poultry line are the American of Northampton township all his life. Three Dominique, Buff I^eghorn, White Plymouth children were born to him and his wife,

Rocks, Barred Plymouth Rocks, Imperial P. namely : Thomas, a farmer of Buckingham Ducks, and the Light Brahmas. The Samuel township, who married Rebecca Montanye Wilson Company does an exceedingly large John, a farmer of Northampton township, business, and ships by mail, express, and who married Eliza Reed ; and Jesse, the father freight to every state in the Union. of our subject, and eldest of his father's chil- Mr. Ely was married, in 1888, to Isabella dren. The maternal grandfather of our sub- ;

522 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

ject was Gilliam Cornell, a native of South- Smith Keller, a baggageman on the P. & R. ampton township, where he was engaged in R. R., who was killed in a wreck in 1895. mercantile business many years and later John K. Dungan received his education in devoted himself to farming. He married a the common schools, and later paid his way

Miss Craven, by whom he reared four chil- through a pay school ; he started out in life

dren, namely : Adreann, the mother of our without a cent and without a suit of clothes,

subject ; Catherine, the wife of John Terry, and has shown what a man with willine a farmer and carpenter of Southampton town- hands and an unusually large amount of de- ship; Jane, the wife of Thomas Twining; termination can do. He first worked four or and Craven, who married Martha Vanzant, five years on the farm of William Yonker, and they formerly lived in Southampton receiving a salary of $100 per year; he then township, but are now both deceased. spent two or three years working on his father- Jesse Dungan spent the major portion of in-law's farm. After this he went to Wrights- his active days in Northampton township, town, where for four years he resided, renting

engaged in the cultivation of the soil. He Giles Gordon's farm. He then removed to was a very prominent man of his day and Huntingdon Valley, Pa., where he followed held the oiBce of county collector many years, farming two years. The next eight years and was elected to other township offices. were spent in farming in Upper Makefield He died in Northampton township in 1895, township, and in 1873 he purchased of Josiah at the advanced age of ninety-one years ; his Roberts his present farm, which consisted of wife passed from this life in Tinicum town- 100 acres, for which he was obliged to pay ship. As a result of his union with Adreann the sum of $140 per acre. He has since Cornell, a family of nine children was born to purchased the G. J. Gallagher property of 70 them, : namely Isaac, deceased, was a farmer acres, and has sold oflF land at different times of Southampton township,—his first wife was until he now owns 117 acres of highly im- Rebecca Booz, and his second, Cynthia Ann proved land. In connection with general

Doan ; George, a retired commission merchant farming he has run a commission wagon to of Philadelphia, living at Brownsburg, Pa., the Philadelphia markets for the past twenty was formerly a seamau, following that life years, taking to the markets at one time as fourteen years John K., the subject of ; this high as 800 pounds of butter, a product that sketch, was next in order ; David is retired was always easily disposed of, because of its and lives at Trenton, N. J. ; Mary Jane was good quality. Our subject has always been a the wife of Franklin Fetter,—both are now lover of fine horses, and has bought and sold deceased Anna Eliza, ; wife of John Trauck horses for many years.

Ivouisa was wedded to William Cook, who is Mr. Dungan was wedded September 9, now deceased Adeline is ; the wife of A. E. 1855, with Esther Cooper, of Northampton Firman, whose sketch also appears in this township, a daughter of Joseph and Tacy Book of Biographies ; Sallie was wedded to (Scarber) Cooper, the former a farmer of that ;

BUCK-S COUNTY 523

township. Three children have been born to of means, and purchased some 300 acres of

this union, namely : Lavina, the wife of B. land in Plumstead township, where they Franklin Gilkyson, a farmer of Northampton built a home and resided the remainder of township, is the mother of three children, their lives. Mathew Greer took Jane Sav-

Britton, Esther, and Lizzie ; Josephine is the idge to wife, and they had six children, the wife of George Gill, also a farmer of the second child born being Mathew, the grand- above-named township, and three children father of our subject's husband. Mathew

have been born to them. Flora, John and Greer, Jr., throughout his career continued to

George ; and J. Cooper, who married Addie farm the old homestead, and lived a long and

McNair, and runs the old farm. Politically, useful life, dying in 181 1. He married our subject is a Democrat and has served as Sarah Snodgrass, a daughter of James Snod-

supervisor many years ; socially, he is a mem- grass, and they reared four children, namely :

; ber of the Grange at Richboro L,odge No. John James JeflFerson Jane ; and Ann. ; ;

247, F. & A. M. of Newtown ; and I. O. O. F. James JeflFerson Greer was born on the old

of Richboro. Religiously, he is an attendant homestead August 29, 1801, and after reach- of the Reformed Church. Mr. Dungan has ing maturity engaged in mercantile pursuits always been an industrious worker, good at Dublin, Bucks County, where he became a neighbor, generous friend, dutiful citizen, and man of considerable prominence. For many has won the respect and good-will of many years he was president of the Doylestown & friends throughout the county. Dublin Turnpike Company. Politically, he was a stanch Democrat, whilst in religious belief he was a Presbyterian. He formed a matrimonial alliance with Eliza Jones, a ^RS. ELIZABETH K. GREER, a daughter of Griffith and Mary (Mathias) daughter of Joseph and Cynthia Jones, by whom he had the following chil-

is relict (Kirk) Carver, the of dren : Joseph J. , our subject's departed hus-

Joseph Greer, who was a prosperous mer- band who is engaged in tilling J. ; John, the

chant of the borough of Newtown and a gen- soil on the old homestead ; Mary ; Sarah tleman of noble impulses, who was held in James, an attorney-at-law of Philadelphia; high esteem by a large circle of acquaint- and Jane Ann.- ances throughout Bucks County. Joseph J. Greer, in his younger days, as-

Joseph J. Greer was born in Plumstead sisted his father in the store, and later em- township, Bucks County, in 1828, and was barked in the mercantile business at Newtown, a son of James Jeflferson and Eliza (Jones) with his brother-in-law, William K. Carver. Greer. He was descended from Mathew He was a shrewd business man, an excellent Greer, who, with his brother John, came manager, and, being of industrious habits, from Dublin, Ireland, about 1732, and located made a success of life and accumulated a in Bucks County, Pa. They were possessed handsome competency. He conducted his :

524 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

store in Newtown until 1890, when he re- time of his death, in Philadelphia, Pa. He tired. He died in 1895, at the age of sixty- married Cynthia Kirk, and their happy union eight years. He was a man of many excel- was blessed by the birth of six children, lent traits of character, a kind neighbor and namely : William K., a record of whose life a true friend, and was dearly beloved by all appears elsewhere in this Book of Biogra-

who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. phies Wilson H. C. ; ; J. ; Jesse ; Joseph Mary,

Mr. Greer was joined in Hymen's bonds the wife of Edward Woodman ; and Eliza- with Elizabeth K. Carver, who is of English beth K., whose name heads these lines. Mr. descent, and traces her ancestry back to and Mrs. Greer became the proud parents of

William Carver, who came from England in one daughter, Alice ;G., who is the wife of 1682 and located at Byberry, Philadelphia Edward H. Buckman.

County, Pa. In 1700 he moved to Bucking- Edward H. Buckman, who is one of the ham township, Bucks County, where he fol- enterprising and progressive citizens of New- lowed the vocation of a farmer. His son, town, was born July 4, 1857, and is a son of William, the great-grandfather of otir sub- l/cwis and Clarissa (Lee) Buckman, and a ject, was a carpenter by trade and followed it grandson of Thomas Buckman. Lewis all his life in connection with farming. One Buckman was born November 2, 1815. of the results of his workmanship is the old Samuel T. Buckman purchased the home brick hotel which still stands in Newtown. farm where Thomas Buckman now resides in His wife's maiden name was Strickler, and Newtown, and disposed of this property to his their union resulted in the birth of the fol- brother, Lewis, who, at a later day, sold it lowing : Joseph ; Mary, the wife of William to Eli Buckman. Lewis Buckman also Kirk and William, ; who died in childhood. owned several farms in different sections

Joseph was a farmer and a miller by trade, of the township. He dealt largely in real and during the latter years of his life operated estate and loans, and being a shrewd and a saw and flour mill in Buckingham, Pa. calculating business man, made money He died in 1835, at the ripe old age of rapidly and by honest methods. He was seventy-five years. His companion in life president of the Newtown Building & Loan was Elizabeth Kimble, and their union re- Association; trustee of the Newtown Hall; sulted in the following issue : Jesse P.; Es- director of the Bridgeton & Newtown Turn- ther, who married William McDowell; pike Company ; and of the Newtown First Joseph, the father of our subject; Eliza, the National Bank. Socially, he was a member wife of Samuel ; Kirk and Anthony, who and past master of the Masonic Lodge of died young. Joseph Carver was born in Newtown. Mr. Buckman's useful career Buckingham township, and during his came to an end January 8, 1895. He was younger days was a farmer, but later en- joined in wedlock with Clarissa Lee, a gaged in the milling business with his father daughter of Reuben Lee, of Milford town- at Buckingham, Pa. ; he was residing, at the ship, and they had the following children BUCKS COUNTY 525

Katie, born in in ; 1854, died 187 1 lyizzie, Mrs. Greer is now residing at the home of born in died in 1862 1855, ; Edward H. ; and Mr. Buckman, and has many friends in that Willie, who was born in i860, and died in locality, for she has lived there for many

1862. Mrs. Buckman, who was born De- years, and to know her is to love her. cember 21, 1 8 19, died June 23, 1889, at the age of seventy years. Edward H. Buckman, after obtaining a good business education in the Business College of Trenton, N. J., de- ENRY GILIv, ex-county commissioner "I® I voted his time to caring for his property and r^ and a retired farmer of Northamp- has also been identified with many of the -- V ton township, Bucks County, Pa., leading enterprises about the borough of where he was engaged in agricultural pur- Newtown. He takes great pride in his suits nearly all his active career, is now native town, and has done all within his spending his latter days in peace and comfort power to advance its interests. He owns a in the village of Richboro, where he owns a controlling interest in the Gas Works, of handsome home. He owns the old Dungan which he is secretary and treasurer; he is homestead in Northampton township, which one of the original stockholders and directors homestead comprises 216 acres of the best the of Electric Street Railway; a charter farming land in the district. This much re- member of the Newtown Building & Loan spected citizen was born in Southampton Association,, of he is which a director; a township, this county, September 8, 1821, and director of the Electric lyight Plant ; director is a son of John and Jane (Dungan) Gill, and and secretary of the Newtown Water Works ; grandson of John Gill. director and secretary of the Newtown & John Gill, our subject's paternal grand-

Bridgeton Turnpike Company; trustee and father, was of English origin, and was a resi- secretary of Newtown Hall ; and a director dent of Philadelphia many years, where he of the Newtown Improvement Company. was engaged in the manufacture of shoes; As a result of his union with our subject's later he came to New Britain township, this daughter, Mr. Buckman is the father of two county, and was the first of the family to lo- children, namely : Clara I,., who was born cate in Bucks County. He took up a large March 31, 1884; and Edith G., who was tract of land in Northampton township, and born June 3, 1890. He resides in one of the carried on agricultural pursuits the rest of his most beautiful and attractive homes in his active days; he was prominent in his com- section of the county, having remodeled it, munity and commanded the respect and good- erected large barns, and made other modern will of a host of acquaintances. He was the improvements. The lawn, is set which well progenitor of the following children : John; out with shrubbery and trees, is the largest Rebecca, the wife of George Edwards, of as as • well the most beautiful in the borough, Ohio ; Anna, the wife ofJoseph Carrell I^ydia, and is greatly admired by all who see it. wedded to Joel Carver ; Sidney, who married 526 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

Laura Hart; and Henry, who married Mary and his wife was Ellen Mattison ; Mary, de- Fretz. ceased, was the wife of Henry Vantilburg, a The maternal grandfather of our subject farmer of Ohio; and Jonathan, deceased. was Thomas Dungan, a farmer of Bucks Henry Gill possesses a good education,

County ; he married Sarah Krusen, and they which he received in the district schools of became the parents of one child, Jane, the his native township; he remained under the mother of our subject. parental roof until he attained his majority, John Gill was born in Northamptom town- assisting his father in the work about the ship, and died in Solebury, Pa., in 1849. He farm. Leaving home, he spent four years was reared to agricultural pursuits and con- working out on a farm, and after his mar- tinued that occupation throughout his entire riage purchased the old Dungan homestead, days. He was a very prominent man of his north of the village of Richboro, which con- day, enterprising and public spirited, and en- sists of 216 acres; our subject has made many joyed the esteem and respect of a large circle improvements upon the same, and, in addition

of friends. He took an active interest in to carrying on general farming, sold milk for politics, and firmly upheld the principles of nearly three years, and for forty years sold the Democratic party. Religiously, he was a produce to the markets of Philadelphia, never member of the Reformed Church. He was missing a trip during that period. He was united in marriage with Jane Dungan, a na- very successful in all his undertakings, which tive of Northampton township, and this union may be attributed lo his untiring energy and was blessed by the birth of twelve children, perseverance, and in all business transactions the most of whom lived to be well-to-do and he preserved his reputation for honesty and

prosperous citizens : Sarah, deceased, was the square dealings ; he enjoyed the distinction of wife of John Lefferts, of Northampton town- being one of the foremost and enterprising ship; John lives in the same township, and is farmers of his community. a retired farmer ; Samuel, deceased, was a far- In February, 1846, our subject was wedded mer also of Northampton township, and his to Ann Eliza Banes, a native of Southamp- wife was Sarah Gilkyson; Henry, the subject ton township, and a daughter of Hoglen and of this memoir; Eliza, the wife of Andrew J. Eliza (Roberts) Banes, both of whom are now Ely, a farmer of Solebury, Pa.; James, a deceased. Our subject's second wife is Eliza- prominent lumber dealer of Philadelphia, beth A. Price, and they were married May 2, was married to Susan Gill ; Ann, the wife of 1893 ; she was the widow of Edward CafFey, David Krusen, of Northampton township; of Wrightstown, Pa., and a daughter of Isaac resides in Illinois, and is a farmer by William and Sarah Price, both natives of occupation; Jacob, deceased, was killed at Northampton township; the former died in Pike's Peak by falling under a wagon load of August, 1890; the latter now resides with lumber; Abraham, deceased, was killed in the her daughter, Mrs. W. G. Glab, in North- battle of Fair Oaks, during the Civil War, ampton township. Six children were the

WIILLIAM S. SCHLICHTER. —

BUCKS COUNTY 529

fruits of our subject's first marriage, namely: of Philadelphia, but took up farming as his

Josephine, the wife of Albert Lefferts, of Phil- life's vocation and settled in Rockhill town- adelphia, is the mother of five children ship. He was an extensive land owner and Harry, Anna, Lizzie, Charles, and Parks; one of the influential men of his day. He

Elwood wedded Caroline Finney, by whom was twice married, his first wife being a Miss he reared three children —Harriet, Anna, and Hu'nsberger, : who was, the mother of our Henry; George, a farmer of Northampton; subject's grandfather. After her demise he township, married Josephine .Dungan, and formed a-second alliance, with a Philadelphia they are the parents of three children rFlor^ — lady and :\a,tex ; reitioVed,' to ; Philadelphia, ence, John, and George; and Stephen, who where hedied.at an advancedvage. married Ellen Carr, and has charge of the, His grandfather was Henry Schlichter,

homestead. Politically, Mr. Gill is aij ardent who was one of the early and extensive land ; supporter of Democratic principles, and, has owners of this section, owning a large estate served as inspector of elections several times,; in the original township of Rockhill, which

and from 1891 to 1894 held the ofiice of now forms almost the entire site of Sellers-

county commissioner, the. duties of which of- ville. He was an extensive farmer and regu- fice he honestly and faithfully discharged. larly;once a week went to Philadelphia with Religiously, he is a devoted member and lib- produce from his community. He was a eral supporter of the Reformed Church of very prosperous ma'b. arid was well known Richboro. Since 1887, our subject has been, throughout the township. When the North living in retirement, in that year purchasing Perin Railroad was under construction, he

the home of Mrs. Sarah Campbell, of Rich- became one of the stockholders ; upon the boro, where he has since resided, enjoying the completion of the road a great excursion fruits of his early toil. was to be given and each' stockholder was

entitled to, ride free; but upon the eventful day he was stricken with paralysis and died

in 1859. He chose as his companion in life

ILUAM S. SCHLICHTER, who -Mary Senn, whose deatth occurred at the age Wihas efiiciently served as postmas- of severity-seven years,, arid .they were the ter of Sellersville since 1897, is a- man of parents of ,twoi children : William, the father great energy and enterprise, and has proba- of our' subject; and Elizabeth (Billger). bly done more toward the advancement of William Schlicher was born on the farm the interests of that borough than any other Romyen Kuen now occupies, in the month man. He was born in Sellersville, Septemr of May, 1826, and was reared and educated ber 22, 1866, and is a son of William and to agricultural pursuits. After a time he Mary (Mangle) Schlichter. acquired a large portion of his father's estate, The great-grandfather of our subject was where he established a home and still resides, Andrew Schlichter, who was born in the city enjoying the best of health. He is one of 530 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

the good substantial citizens of his commu- elected to that position on a regular ticket. nity, and is held in high esteem by a large Socially, he is of considerable prominence, circle of acquaintances. He formed a marital being one of the prime movers in the Odd union with Mary Maugle, who died at the Fellow Ivodge of Sellersville. It was greatly age of sixty-six years, and to them were born through his influence that the Odd Fellows' benefit four children : Annie, deceased ; Henry M., Temple, which has resulted in much who makes his home in the state of Kansas; to the borough, was erected during the sum- Thomas M., who conducts a general store mer of 1896. This handsome structure |i in Sellersville ; and William S., a record of which cost in the neighborhood of 8,000,

whose life is here given. Mr. Schlichter is was dedicated in April, 1897, and as our sub- an unswerving Republican in his political ject was in the chair at the time, he presided

affiliations, and for fifteen years served as a over the ceremonies with a dignity befitting

councilman of the village organization. the occasion. He is also a member of the

William S. Schlichter, after completing the McCalla I/odge, No. 596, F. & A. M. of Sel- course prescribed in the common schools, lersville. In religious attachments, he and took a course in Pierce's Business College, his wife are faithful members of the Reformed Philadelphia, where he obtained a good busi- Church, as were his ancestors before him.

ness education. He then, in 1891, conducted Mr. Schlichter's portrait appears on another a mercantile store in Hellertown for three page, in connection with th^ above account

years, after which he accepted a position as of his life. teller in the Sellersville Bank, in which capacity he served in a faithful manner for a period of five years, but finally resigned R. HARRISON SMITH, a success- upon receiving the appointment as postmas- ful practitioner of medicine, who ter in 1897. He has since performed the B is located upon his farm of 87 acres, duties of that office in a conscientious man- in Upper Makefield township, Bucks County,

ner and has gained the respect and good-will is also engaged in agricultural pursuits. He

of every one concerned. is a man of high principles and is one of the

In 1 89 1, Mr. Schlichter was united in good substantial citizens of that section. He

hymeneal bonds with Ada R. Day, a daugh- is a son of Watson and Amy (Scarborough) ter of Frank Day of Philadelphiaj and they Smith, and was born in Wrightstown town-

are the proud parents of one bright and in- ship, Bucks County, August 16, 1847. teresting son, Ralph. Politically, he is a Watson Smith, the father of our subject, firm Republican, and has served as commit- was born in Upper Makefield township and teeman of the district ever since he attained there resided and engaged in farming until his majority with the exception of one and 1838, when he located upon a farm in half a years. He also served as councilman Wrightstown township. In his early days he one term, being the only Republican ever was not only engaged in farming, but plied ,

BUCKS COUNTY 531

the trade of a shoemaker as well. He resided George W. Gross, of Washington, D. C. One in Wrightstown township until his death, year later he went to Cincinnati, O., where which occurred April 14, 1883. His compan- he entered the Physico-Medical College, grad- ion in the pathways of life was Amy Scar- uating on January 21, 1878, and receiving a borough, a native of Solebury township, certificate to practice. He then returned to Bucks County, and their union resulted in Bucks County, Pa., locating at Wycombe, the following issue : Theodore, who died at where he purchased a farm and cultivated it the age of twenty years ; Anna Maria, who for a period of seven years. He then moved

died at the age of three ; Elias, who reached to Pineville, this county, where he was en- the age of fifty-six years before succumbing gaged in practice on a small scale for five to the inevitable; Margery S., the wife of years, after which he purchased his present

Croasdale Worthington, a farmer residing at farm in Upper Makefield township, in 1895, Penn's Park, Bucks County; and Harrison, and there has since been engaged in farming whose name heads this record. Mrs. Smith in connection with the practice of his pro- was called to her final rest in 1 877. fession. He owns 87 acres and carries on

Dr. Harrison Smith obtained his education general farming. Professionally, he is well in the common schools and at the Carvers- patronized and has a stock of drugs on hand

ville Institute, attending the latter for two at all times, including all necessary medicines

and a half years. He then engaged as a for the relief of the suffering. He is popular,

teacher in Rockhill township for three a pleasant companion, and is well thought of months, after which he served in a similar by his large circle of acquaintances. capacity in the places cited below for the Politically, Dr. Smith was reared a Repub-

length of time stated: Southampton town- lican and cast his first vote for Gen. Grant, in 1868, since become an enthusi- ship, one and a half years ; Camden County but has

N. J., in the village of HurfiFville, seven astic Prohibitionist, because of his belief that months Solebury township, this county, for liquor is the curse of mankind. ,He is a ;

one year, beginning in 1 872 ; Bristol town- director of the Newtown National Bank, and, ship, one year; Warrington township, one socially, is a member of the Grange.

term ; and Spring House, Montgomery County, for one year. Being a man of excep- tional intellectual training and a student by nature, he proved an able instructor, impart- TT^HARLES CRAVEN, a veteran of the

ing his knowledge to others with surprising I St^ Civil War, is one of the prosperous

ease, thereby gaining the respect and hearty ^^ ^ farmers of Northampton town-

support of the citizens of the various commu- ship, Bucks County, Pa., where he owns a

nities named above. In 1 876, he decided upon fine farm of 130 acres of well improved land, a medical career, and in the fall of that year and has been engaged in the cultivation of

began the study for that profession under Dr. the soil all his life. He was born in the 532 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

above township January 26, 1843, and is a Religiously, Mr. Craven was a member of son of James and Mary (Cornell) Craven, and the Reformed Church. The mother of our grandson of Thomas Craven. subject resides in Richboro, Pa. Thomas Craven was a farmer of Warmin- Charles Craven, as well as his sisters, was ster township, this county, and was married educated in the public schools of his native to Jane Krusen, by whom he reared the fol- township. He remained at home until the

lowing children : Cynthia, the wife of Isaac breaking out of the Civil War, and then in

enlisted in Co. I, 68th Reg., Pa. Van Horn ; Matilda was wedded to Aaron June, 1861,

Cornell, who is now deceased, and she lives Vol. Inf , at Philadelphia, and was mustered

in Churchville, Pa. was married, to into the United States service June 7, 1862. ; Jane William Moore, who is now deceased, and His record is one of which any soldier would

she now resides at Somertori, Pa. ; and James, be proud, he having participated in twenty- the father of our subject. The maternal eight engagements, and was wounded but

grandfather of our subject was John Cornell, twice: December 13, 1862, at the battle of a farmer of Northampton township, and his Fredericksburg, he was shot through the wife was Elizabeth Vandegrift, and they be- right arm, and later at Petersburg he was came the parents of five children, namely : shot through the leg. At the time he was William, who was married to Cornelia mustered out, which was in June, 1865, he Krusen, and they live at Richboro, Pa. was with the Army of the Potomac. After ;

Mary, the mother of our subject ; Alfred, de- peace had been restored, our subject returned ceased, was wedded to Rebecca Van Buskirk, to the old homestead and took charge of the

who is also deceased ; L/Ouisa was the wife of same three years prior to his grandfather's

Isaac Rightly, and they are both deceased death ; the homestead then consisted of 80 ; and John, a resident of Richboro, Pa., who acres, but, in 1897, our subject added 50 acres was united in marriage with Ella Bennett. by purchase from Thomas I/ivezey. Farming

James Craven was a native of Northamp- is his principal occupation, and he is regarded ton township and was educated to agricul- as one of the vakied members of his com- tural pursuits, which occupation he continued munity. all his life. He died when in the prime of Mr. Craven was wedded September 17, life, December 20, 1848. He was joined in 1867, to Caroline W. Cook, a native of the bonds of matrimony with Mary Cornell, Northampton township, and a daughter of A. also a native of Northampton township, and P. and Margaret (Wyncoop) Cook her father ; a family of four children was born to them, was a farmer of Pennington, N. J. , but at the as follows : Annie, the wife of John Thomp- time of her birth resided , he where his daugh- son, a carpenter of Richboro; Charles, our ter now lives. Six children blessed the subject ; Elizabeth, who the was wife of John home of our subject and wife, namely : Wil- Addis, died in 1874; and Matilda, the wife liam, a farmer, who wedded Jennie Garner, of John Pedcock, a farmer of this county. of Williamsport, Pa. ; Abraham Lincoln, a BUCKS COUNTY 533

printer, has his office in Nos. 29 and 31 with a number of business enterprises, in

South Sixth street, Philadelphia; Thomas which he has been very successful, and is citizens of Durham remains at home ; Fred works in the Enter- one of the good reliable the old family prise office at Newtown, Pa. Samuel ; and township. He was born on ;

Charles Edgar, who is attending the Rich- property now owned by his brother, S. H. boro High School. AH our subject's chil- lyaubach, in Durham township, Bucks Coun-

dren were educated in the public schools and ty, August 29, 1836, and is a son of Anthony

William is a graduate of Stewart's College. and Elizabeth (Hess) lyaubach.

Abraham L,incoln, Thomas and Fred attend- He is descended from Rhinehart Laubach,

ed the Hatboro High School, while Samuel a native of Germany ; he was the father of

is a graduate of the Newtown High School. Capt. Christian Laubach, who was born in

Politically, Mr. Craven is a stanch Republi- Germany, about thirty miles south of Straus- can, whilst religiously, he and his family are burg, on the Rhine River. The latter came members of the Reformed Church at Church- to America with his wife, children, and his ville. Pa. Socially Mr. Craven is a member father, leaving the Palatinate, Germany, on of the John H.Fisher Post, No. loi, G. A. the ship " Queen Elizabeth," and landing

R. , at Hatboro, Pa. in Philadelphia, Pa., September 16, 1738. He soon after located on I,aubach creek, lyower Saucon township, Bucks County, but now in Northampton County, where his fa-

7T\HARI.ES DAUBACH, who is now ther died in 1 768. He followed the trade of I St^ living in practical retirement at his a blacksmith, being extensively engaged in ^- ^ home in Riegelsville, Bucks Coun- the manufacture of iron and cast iron kettles,

ty, is a gentleman who has attained high dis- and was connected with the Durham Fur- tinction as a master of ethnology and phreno- nace. He was a very progressive man and logy. At an early age he manifested a desire became the owner of several large tracts of to delve into these intricate and interesting land, and also built and operated a saw and

branches of science, and has made them a grist mill ou Ivaubach creek, which is now life-long study. He came to be known as an owned by Theodore I/aubach. He was a authority upon the subjects, and for many captain in the Saucon Rangers in the French years has been a constant contributor to the and Indian War, from 1755 to 1762. While

press and different scientific . magazines ; his still a resident of the old country, he mar- writings are seized with avidity by all stu- ried, and this union resulted in the birth of dents of science and receive hearty recogni- six children, two of whom were born in this

tion at the hands of professors in the leading country ; the record is as follows : John

scientific institutions in this country. Al- George; Elizabeth, born May 15, 1730, mar-

though his time has been mainly taken up ried Adam Kuckert ; Peter, born in 1734, with that line of work, he has been identified married a Miss Krupley; Conrad, born in ,; :

534 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

1737, married Catherine Houck ; Frederick, man. He died at the advanced age of eighty- born in 1744, married Catherine Bitting; and eight years, and his wife preceded him some Rhinehart, born in 1748, who married Mar- years, dying at the age of sixty. He formed garet Bidleman. a matrimonial alliance in 1798 with Eliza- John George Laubach, the great-grand- beth Reil, who was born in Williams town- father of our subject, 1 ship, was born November 1 Northampton County, and they had

1729, and upon coming to this country with the following oflFspririg : Mary, born Novem- his father located with him in I,ower Saucon ber 21, 1799, the wife of Jacob Boyer, lived township. He learned the trade of a black- for almost a century, dying in the ninety-

smith, and skilled eighth year of her ; I^ydia, became a workman on age born June 7, tools and steel work. He married Elizabeth 1802, became the wife ofJoseph Trauger; An-

Yonson, and they reared twelve children thony, born October 18, 1804, married Eliza-

Susan, born November 7, 1757, was the wife beth Hess, a daughter of Judge George Hess, of John Michael, and upon his death became a captain in the War of 1812 Elizabeth, born ; the wife of John Adams born married ; John C, No- June 23, 1807, Samuel Rinker John ; vember 28, 1759, married Elizabeth Writ- born Julys, 18 10, died in infancy; Susan, kneclit ; Adam, born November 20, 1761, mar- born January 8, 1813, married Simon Illick ; ried a Miss Berger; Ciiristian, born June 7, Peter, born January i, 1816, married Lavina 1762, was a soldier in the Revolutionary War Bachman ; Anna Margaret, born May 30, and married Anna May Steblers ; Annie Ma- 1 8 19, married Jacob Hess; and Sarah, born rie, born in October, 1764, became the wife January 14, 1826, became the wife of David of Johnjacoby; John, born November 23, W. Hess. Mr. lyaubach was a supervisor for 1766; Conrad, born March 7, 1768; Anna some years, and in religious belief was a Margaret, born January 19, 1770, was the member of the Reformed Church. wife of Dr. Peter Saylor ; Catherine, born Anthony I^aubach, our subject's father, November 7, 1772, was the wife of Daniel settled in Durham township, Bucks County, Writknecht; John George; Walburg, born on the farm now owned by Samuel H. I^au- February 15, and Elizabeth, 1776 ; born April bach, where he carried on agricultural pur- 10, 1779. suits throughout his life. He was a very ac- John George Daubach, the grandfather of tive man and one who possessed the confi- our subject, was born March 5, 1774, and dence of all, being frequently called upon to became a blacksmith and a carpenter. He settle estates. He was a school director and assisted in building the Durham Church, supervisor for many years. Religiously, he and also built the house in which S. H. was a faithful member of the Reformed I/aubach now resides, the one in which Church, and liberally contributed towards its Peter L,aubach lives, and also the one in maintenance. March 17, 1829, he married which George Daubach lives. He became Elizabeth Hess, of lyower Saucon, and bean extensive land-owner and a very wealthy came the father of the following children BUCKS COUNTY 535

Hannah, born March 21, 1830, became the specimen of minerals, relics, and curios of all wife of Rev. L,eidy N. Worman ; George W., kinds, which he has since donated to the born December 23, 1832, married Maria Fra- Bucks County Historical Society, of which ley ; Samuel H., born March 23, 1834, mar- he is a charter member, and is also a member ried Sarah Rufe; Charles, whose name ap- of Archaeology and Palaeontology of the Uni- pears at the head of these lines; Franklin, versity of Pennsylvania, of which he is a born September 13, 1838, married Elmira field worker. He has done much surveying

Heller ; Elizabeth, who was born May 4, 1841, for mines in his section, and can give a geo- died at early an age ; David Anthony, born graphical and mineral description of Dur- December 18, 1843, died in infancy; James ham and adjoining townships. At the pre-

Francis, born April 25, 1847, also died in in- sent time, he is engaged in a historical fancy ; and Benjamin H. , born March 30, work on the early Indians of Bucks County, 1853, who married Elizabeth Stover. Mr. with a description of their camps and manner Laubach passed to his final rest at the age of of living, which will be an interesting and eighty-seven years, and his wife at sixty- valuable work upon its completion. He has eight. always taken a deep interest in educational

Charles L,aubacli was reared upon a farm matters, and for four years, beginning in 1885, and attended the public schools for some he was superintendent of the Durham schools. time, applying himself in a diligent manner He has also engaged in a number of enter- and taking advantage of every opportunity prises, and in connection with his brother, for advancement. He subsequently took a Samuel H., established a plant for the manu- classical course in the well known Vande- facture of all kinds of brick for building pur- veer School at Easton, and in 1855 took a poses, which is now conducted for them by course of phrenological studies, including the John W. Huffman. In 1865, they established

Fowler & Wells system of that science. He a saw mill, which they operated for some fif- made rapid strides in advancement in the teen years, and which Samuel H. now con- knowledge of that science and in time took ducts alone. Our subject embarked in the to lecturing on ethnology and phrenology, lime business and still owns the establish- and continues to give delineations of charac- ment, which is conducted by his nephew, H. ter. In 1857, he studied obstetrics with Dr. John R. I/aubach. He has been very successful in lyudlow, of Easton, and later practiced with life, and has made a host of friends through- him, using medical electricity with success out the county, who hold him in the highest for thirteen months, when he relinquished esteem. He still lives upon his farm, which that profession owing to poor health. He he has greatly improved and made one of the retired to the farm and there continued in finest in the section. the study of science, devoting much of his March 29, i860, he was joined in Hymen's time to geology and archaeology, during bonds with Jane Raub, a daughter of Joseph which time he collected many interesting K. Raub, and she has indeed been a true 536 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

help-meet. They became the parents of one education was obtained in the district schools

daughter, who was taken from them in her of his native township ; although reared to infancy, and they have since adopted a daugh- agricultural pursuits, early in life he began to

ter, lyizzie M. Sutton. learn the trade of a tailor, which occupation he continued during his early manhood, be-

ing at last obliged to give it up on account of poor health. He then took to farming 7TXHARLES D. BEANS, postmaster of and followed that throughout his remaining I j/ the village of Fallsington, is one of active days, and during the Civil War moved ^••fc—-^ the oldest and most prominent to the village Of Fallsington, where he en- business men of that community, and has, tered the world of rest at the age of eighty- for more than the past quarter of a century, six years. Mr. Beans was united in marriage been engaged in the mercantile business. with Sarah Buckman, a daughter of William

The name of Beans is an old and familiar Buckman, a prominent farmer of Lower one in Bucks County, and the people of that Makefield township, and to this union the

name have been connected with the growth following children were born : William, a and progress of this county for the past resident of Yardley, Pa. Mary ; (Garwood),

century and a half. The gentleman, whose deceased ; Hannah (Twining), who lives at

name appears at the head of this notice, was Newtown, Pa. ; Benjamin, deceased ; Lydia born in Lower Makefield township, Bucks W. (Comfort), who resides in the village of

County, Pa., April ii, 1827, and is a son of Fallsington; and Charles D., the subject of Charles and Sarah (Buckman) Beans, and this brief notice. Our subject's mother passed grandson of Benjamin Beans. to the unknown beyond at the age of eighty Benjamin Beans lived all his life in the years. Religiously, our subject's parents western part of L/Ower Makefield township were members of the Society of Friends po- ; and his vocation was that of an agriculturist, litically, Mr. Beans was formerly a Whig, but in which occupation he was very successful. later became a Republican upon the forma- He was joined in the bonds of wedlock with tion of that party. Mary Smith, and they became the parents of Charles D. Beans spent his boyhood days six children, who were named as follows: on his father's farm and attending the dis-

Charles Jonathan Elizabeth ; Ben- trict ; ; Sarah ; schools ; attaining his manhood, he pur- jamin and Seneca. ; Mr. Beans passed from sued the vocation of a farmer until 1872, this life at the age of eighty-four years, and when he decided to give up that occupation his wife died aged eighty years. Religiously, and move to some village to live ; accordingly, they were prominent members of the Society in that year he disposed of his farm and of Friends. moved to Fallsington, where he embarked in Charles Beans was born and reared in Lower the mercantile business, and has since been Makefield township, Bucks County, and his engaged in that line of business up to the

EDWARD WORRELL. —

BUCKS COUNTY 539

present time; our subject . carries a full line William Worrell was a native of Philadel- of goods, and lias by his honest and straight- phia, and upon attaining, his manhood en- forward dealings built up a large and paying gaged in the cloth -business in that city patronage. Mr. Beans is one of the energetic under the firm name of Worrell, Coates & business men of Fallsington, is public spir- Co. : In later years he left the city and moved ited, and lends his influence in support' of any on his farm, west of Philadelphia, where he measure that tends to promote tlie welfare of spent his remaining. days. As a result of

Jiis adopted village. his marriage with . Margaret Soloman five

Mr. Beans chose for his life companion children were raised, namely: Edward S., Mary T. Comfort, a daughter of Josiah and our subject's father; Sally; Caroline; Mary; Rachael Gomfbrt, of Falls township, this and Albert. He and his family were Pres-

county, and they were • happily iwedded in byterians.

1 185 ; thrfee children blessed the honie of this Edward S. Worrell was also born in Phila-

marriage, nainely : William, who married delphia, bittli his occurring in 1795 ; there Hannah Van Horn, and they are the parents he obtained his ielementary education and

of two children, Clara and Willis ; Rachael grew to manhood. A short time after reachh deJceased; B., C, and Edward who married irig his majority, ; he. foUowpd the life of a Emma Woolston. Our subject: and family seainan, but later located in Penn's Manor,

are members of the Society of Friends po- where I he a farm of ; purchased 83 acres; he litically, he is an unwavering Republican, also bought land at Point Rock, this county,

and served as postmaster iseven . weeks . in and J owned iconsiderable land in Clinton Arthur's administration, held the same posi- County, Pa. Beside farming he was engaged

tion throughout Harrison's administration, in the .irotl business, having a large interest

and is at present officiating in that capacity. in i a ; furnace at ' Shamokin, Pa, For many years he^was president of the Camden Rolling Mills.; ;Mr. Worrell was an active business man, a dutiful citizen, and was respected and y DWARD WORRELL, a prominent citi- esteemed for his many -exeelknt personal J zen of Bristol, Pa., whose portrait traits of character. In politics, he was a is shown on the opposite page, resides in his standh Whig ; he was a member of several beautiful residence in that village" on Rad- secret fraternities. His wife, Mary Pritchett, cliffe street, along the banks of the Delaware was a daughter of William Pritchett, a whole-

River, and is engaged in looking after his sale leather merchant of Philadelphia, and private affairs. He was born at Penn's six children were born to them, as follows;

Manor, Pa., February 19, i8'47, and is a son Margaret; John; Elizabeth; William; Al- of Edward S. and Mary (Pritchett) Worrell, bert; and Edward. Religiously, he was a and grandson of William and Margaret (Sol- member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. oman) Worrell. Worrell was called to his final resting place 27* ; ;

'54° BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

in i860, while the spirit of his wife was called was the progenitor of the following children :

1 from earth in 867. Christian, Jacob ; Samuel ; Elizabeth Jr. ; ;

Our subject was a lad of six years when and Barbara. His son, Christian Moyer, Jr.,

his parents moved to Morrisville, Pa., and it was born in Franconia township, Montgo- was thirteen years later when they returned mery Co., Pa., in 1705, and passed to the

to Philadelphia ; in the latter place our sub- eternal realms in 1787. His family was

ject was reared to manhood, and educated in composed of the following children : Chris-

a private school in that city. Mr. Worrell tian ; Rev. Jacob ; Esther ; Samuel ; Anna

has always been engaged in business in Maria ; Fronica ; Esther ; and Barbara. Rev. Bristol and Philadelphia, but since the death Jacob Moyer was born in Franconia township,

of his mother he has resided in Bristol, where Montgomery County, in 1730, but moved to his wife purchased their present beautiful Hilltown township, Bucks County, where

home that fronts the Delaware River. He is he died in 1778. His first wife, whose

spending the closing days of his life in quiet name is unknown, left him three children :

and peace, and is surrounded by many warm Christian Jacob, ; and Mary. His second ; Jr. friends. alliance was with Barbara Dirstine, and they

Mr. Worrell was wedded to Mary E. Eck- reared the following children : Michael ; Ag-

ard, a native of Philadelphia, and nes : Samuel ; Barbara a daughter ; Joseph ; and David. of Henry and Margaret (Wier) Eckard. Her Joseph Moyer, the grandfather of our subject, grandfather, Henry Eckard, was a native of was born in Hilltown township, Bucks Coun-

Germany. Her parents reared a family of ty, June 19, 1774. He attained great promi- six sons and one daughter, all of whom were nence throughout this section of the state as

born and raised in Philadelphia ; but two are an artist. His master piece was a life-size

living to-day, our subject's wife and her portrait of himself, which for true facial

youngest brother. Mrs. Worrell is a devoted expression is the perfection of his art, and Baptist. In politics our subject is a Demo- has received nothing but praise from lovers crat. of art and art critics. He was united in matrimonial bonds with Barbara Angny,

and their union resulted in the following oflf- -OSEPH G. MOVER, one of Bucks spring: Jacob; Samuel; Abraham ; Joseph County's most enterprising business William; Henry A.; Elizabeth (Gerhart); men, and a progressive citizen of Per- and Mary (Hunsberger). Mr. Moyer was kasie, was born in Hilltown township, Feb- called to his final rest in 1815, and his wife, ruary 10, 1840, and is a son of Henry A. and who was born in 1770, died in 1857. Sarah (Gerhart) Moyer. Henry A. Moyer, the father of the gentle- He is a direct descendant of Christian man whose name appears at the head of these Moyer, who emigrated from Switzerland lines, was born in Hilltown township, October about 1700, and located in America. He 26, 1807, and after completing his schooling ;

BUCKS COUNTY 541

"was engaged as a teacher for a short term of past six years with more than ordinary suc- years. He then took up agricultural pursuits cess. Mr. Moyer has resided in Perkasie

as a source of earning a competency, and fol- since its incorporation, and has done much to lowed that occupation throughout the re- further the interests of the place. He has

mainder of his life, being a very prosperous erected several houses there, and taken an

man ; he was united in marriage with Sarah active interest in aill public improvements.

Gerhart, by whom he had the following chil- In 1895, he erected a handsome three-story

dren : Lydia, who married Samuel Gerhart, office building on the corner of Seventh and of Perkasie; Abraham, deceased Joseph G. Market streets, in which are located his own ;

Barbara, the Wife of Samuel G. Kramer offices, the post office, a restaurant, and pro-

Sarah, the wife of H. O. Moyer, of Perkasie fessional ofiices, the top floor being occupied ; Hon. Henry G., a record of whose life appears by the Perkasie Band. He has been a director

elsewhere in this Book of Biographies Jacob of the Sellersville National Bank since its ; and Isaiah, deceased. Mrs. Moyer was a organization. He is a man well known for daughter of Abraham Gerhart, of Hilltown his honesty and integrity, and stands high in

township, and was born August 20, 1814, the public estimation.

dying February 20, 1890. He was called to In 1863, he was joined in the holy bonds

his final sleep on August 4, 1875. of wedlock with Mary A. Kratz, a daughter Joseph G. Moyer, the subject of this per- of Simeon Kratz, of New Britain township, sonal history, was educated in the district Bucks County, and they reared the following

schools of his native township, and spent his children : Madora, the wife of B. F. Hartzel, boyhood days upon his father's farm. Find- of New Britain township, by whom she has ing the pursuits of an agriculturist unsuited four children, — Ru.'^sell, Edith, Percy, and to him, at an early age he embarked in the Joseph, superintendent of his father's ship- mercantile business with a brother at Hill- ping yards and a well-known business man town, and they conducted a store for five of Perkasie; H. Irvin, who married Eliza years, when his brother purchased the entire Moyer, a daughter of David R. Moyer, of Hill- stock. In 1870, our subject moved to Per- town, and has three children, —Marion, Irvin,

kasie and started a baled hay and feed busi- Jr., and Joseph Nevin; Elmer, assistant post- ness, with which he was identified for a master of the borough, married I^aura Wick- period of three years, when, in 1873, he ert, and has three children,—Earnest, Grace, bought the lumber and coal business from and Harold; Delilah, the wife of Charles

since success- Wampole, of Perkasie Dyre ; and Ger- J. A. Hendricks. This he has ; J. fully conducted, and has thoroughly estab- trude K. Politically, Mr. Moyer is a Repub- lished himself in the county as a reliable lican, and was appointed postmaster in 1897. business man. In connection with that In religious views, he is a member of the Re- work, he has operated a saw mill for the formed Church. ;

Off' 542 BOO^ BIOGRAPHIES

Marshall. Her ILIvIAM A. RIDGE.- Among th^ shall, si daughter of Edward many prominent agriculturists who father made an 8$ mile walk through this W^ the- been sent on a mission by have contributed substantially to- mate- cotinty, having rial prosperity of Tinicum township, and Williarh Penn, and was happily rewarded by

indeed it may be said of the entire county; receiving a grant of land in Bucks County, Indians stands the worthy gentleman whose well- consisting Of 560 actes ; this made the known name opens this biographical sketch. of this district angry, and they afterwards

Mr. Ridge is spending his latter days in kidnapped the wife and a daughter of Mr. Marshall had lit- quiet and peace and is residing on one of the Marshall ; and after that Mr. best farms in Tinicum township, if not one tle use for Indians, and many of them fell as with the rifle of the best in the northern part of the county. the result of his unerring aim ; He was born on his present farm and is a this gun is now in the possession of our sub- worthy representative of an old and well- ject who prizes it very highly. At the death known pioneer family of this county; He of our subject's grandparents, they were

is a son of Moses M. and Sarah (McFarland) buried in the Marshall burial grounds in this Ridge, and grandson of William and Cathe- county. William was the father of the fol-

rine (Marshall) Ridge. lowing children : Thomas ; Edward ; Wil-

The great-grandfather of our subject came liam Josep]] ; Henry ; MoSes M. ; Rebecca ;

from England about the time of the Penns, Grace ; Mrs. Wood ; and Mrs. Neis. and took up a tract of land in Beusalem Moses M. Ridge, the father of our subject, township, Philadelphia County, Pa., and fol- was born on his father's farm in Tinicum

lowed farming. His son, William Ridge, township, December 2, 1782, and was reared

was born in Bensalem township, October 6, to agricultural pursuits ; he became the pos-

1726, but early in life ascended the Delaware sessor of a part of the homestead, upon River, and finding the land rich and fertile which he erected a house and resided there at a place now known as Tinicum township, the rest of his active days. He learned the decided to lay claim to some of the land, trade of a carpenter, which occupation he and accordingly took up a tract of 400 acres, pursued when he was not carrying on farm-

which included an island of 200 acres; at ing. He passed from this life July 22, i860, Mar- that time the plac^ was an unbroken wilder- ; and lies buried in the femily lot in the ness, inhabited only by wild beasts and wan- shall burial grounds. He Was joined in mar- dering Indians. William cleared a part of riage with Sarah McFarland, who was of land built a rude log cabin iri'w'hich the and i Scotch extraction, and she died October 21,

he resided a short time, when he erected a I 1846, aged sixty years. This union was

is still in : stone house, which standing good ! blessed by the following children Catherine,

condition, even though it has an age of over ' deceased. Was the wife of James Cooper; Ed-

100 years. There he carried on farming ! ward, deeea-sed, was wedded to Elizabeth until his death. He married Catherine Mar- Snyder; Rebecca died young; Sarah A. is BUCKS CO'UTJTY ; 543

than the past quarter of the wife of Eli Goddard ; :niomas and Wib^ of Emilie for more

Ham A., our subject,' are twins, aiid the for-- a century,'- He was born in the village where

1 and is a son mer is deceased ; and James is a practicing he now resides, March 9, 849, B. (Headly) Stack- physician of Camden, N. J. of Jesse I/, and Mary William A. Ridge was reducat'ed in the disr house, grandson of John V. and Cassandra

trict schools of his native township, and has (Cobper) Stackhouse, and great-grandson of remained on the homestead up to the present Stephen and Amy (Vandike) Stackhouse. time. When his father retired from the Stephen Stackhouse was a native of Falls

active duties of life, our subject took upon township, Bucks County, and resided there

himself the management of the farm, and all his life ; he lived on a large farm, but his upon his father's "death bought out the heirs chief occupation was that of a weaver, which

and engaged in gardening in addition to. he continued the major part of his active

carrying on general farming. Our subject days. September 15, 1784, he was united in has made many improvements upon the land marriage with Amy Vandike, and the follow-

and his farm ranks among the' foremost in ing children blessed this union : Sarah, born

district; the soil is exceedingly fertile in the grandfather of the 1785 ; John V., our

and very suitable for the raising of melons subject ; Mary, born in 1 James, born in 788 ;

and sweet potatoes. Mr. Ridge is now living 1790; Stephen, Jr., born in 1793; Samuel,

is spending his latter days in born in retirement and born 179S ; Anna, in 1797; Amy, in quiet and comfort, and is surrounded by born in 1799; and Elizabeth, born in 1802, many warm friends, who hold him in high who is the only one of the above children

respect. Politically our subject is a Demo- who is living at present. Stephen Stack-

crat. house died May i, 1834, at the age of seventy- two years. John Vanzant Stackhouse was born in ILLIAM M. STACKHOUSE.* The Falls township on his father's farm February W:gentleman whose name appears at 18, 1787, and early in life moved to Bristol the head of this notice is an important factor township, settling near the village of Emilie^ intelligent community, where he took up a large tract of land of a well-to-do and ; in and is contributing his share toward the connection with carrying on general fanning, maintenance of morality, good order and all he followed the trade of a weaver, which he those things which constitute the welfare had learned from his father, but during his lat- and prosperity of a prosperous city or village. ter active days his time was entirely devoted This enterprising and public-spirited citizen, to agricultural pursuits. Mr. Stackhouse who is a worthy representative of one of the was well known throughout the township; took an active interest old and pioneer families of Bucks County, :, he in politics, firmly Pa., has been successfully engaged in the Upholding the principles of the Democratic drug and real estate business in the village party, and served as supervisor of Bristol 544 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

township a number of years. Religiously, ure that tended to promote tiie welfare of the he was inclined to favor the Society of village. Fraternally, he was a member and

Friends. He married Cassandra Cooper of past master of Bristol I/odge, No. 25, F. &

Middletown township, and four children A. M. ; a member of the Royal Arch Chapter were born to them, all of whom are deceased, of Bristol; Palestine Commandery of Tren- namely: William C, born January 19, 1800; ton, N. J. ; and the Crusade Commandery, of Samuel C, June 11, 1809; Joseph S., April Allegheny City, Pa. Our subject's father was

25, 1812; and Jesse ly., our subject's father. a member of the latter order, when that lodge John Vanzant Stackhouse died September in 1878 spent a year visiting the Holy Land 17, 1874, and his wife entered the world of and other places of interest in the Old World. rest in 1848. William C, the oldest son, Mr. Stackhouse was united in the bonds of was chief engineer on the steamboat "Argus," wedlock with Mary B. Headly, daughter of which plied the Mississippi River between John and Hannah (Butler) Headly, and grand- St. lyouis and New Orleans, and while on daughter of Daniel and Grace Headly, and

one of his trips down the river, he caught they reared a family of three children, as fol-

his fingers in the machinery : while oiling the lows Emma J., born in 1847, and died in

engine; the fingers 1 were cut ofi" and later 89 1, was the wife of Philip Halzell ; William lock-jaw set in; he was taken to M., a public the subject of this narrative; and J. house in Vicksburg, where he died, aged Headly, born June 30, 1853, and died April thirty-one years. lo, 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Stackhouse were Jesse I/. Stackhouse was born in Bristol prominent members of the Presbyterian township, August 29, 1819, and in early man- Church. Our subject's father passed to the

hood taught school in his native township a unknown beyond July 10, 1879, and the de- number of years; later he engaged in the mise of his mother occurred June 9, 1876. manufacture of oil cloth in the village of William M. Stackhouse, after receiving his Emilie. He served as justice of the peace primary education in the common schools of thirty years, during which time he settled Bristol township, entered Penn State College many estates; he owned considerable land in 1865, and was graduated July, 1869, with and dealt extensively in real estate. In 1849 the degree of B. S. ; the following year was he established a drug store, which he con- spent touring through the Western States; ducted until his retirement, when his son returning home in 1872, he took charge of William M., our subject, took charge of it. the drug store, and has successfully conducted Mr. Stackhouse was a man of much influence the same to the present time. He also suc- in his community; was an intelligent and ceeded his father in his other business enter- public-spirited citizen ; and performed all the prises, and is the largest real estate dealer in obligations of a dutiful citizen. He erected the village. Mr. Stackhouse is one of the every house in the village of Emilie except foremost business men in the village, is pop- one, and contributed much toward any meas- ular in both business and social circles, and BUCKS COUNTY 545

is a leader in all movements that tend to son of Isaac W. and Mary Ann (Guy) Hall, build up the village. and grandson of Thomas Hall.

, Politically, Mr. Stackhouse is an unwaver- Thomas Hall, the grandfather of our sub-

ing Democrat, and in 1891 was elected project, was a carpenter by trade, having learned thonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of that craft in early manhood, and pursued the

Bucks County and served three years ; in 1895 same the major part of his active days. He he elected justice of the peace of Bristol was resided at Burlington, N. J., the most of his township; has been secretary of the school life, passing away in that city at the ad-

board six years ; has represented his party in vanced age of eighty-two years. He was

town, coivnty and judicial conventions ; and united in marriage with Miss Church, by was a delegate at the' convention that nomi- whom he reared a family of nine children. nated Judge Yerkes for president judge. Onr Isaac W. Hall, the youngest of his parents' subject has been delegated to state conven- children, was born in Burlington, N. J., and tions and has attended two national Demo- his education was received in the schools of cratic conventions, although not as a dele- his native place; in early manhood he was gate. Mr. Stackhouse was married Novem- apprenticed to the tailor's trade and followed

ber 19, 1874, to Anna S. Headly, who was tliat trade during the early part of his life, born November 2, 1853, and who is a daugh- but in the '40's he established an express ter of Thomas C. and Susan M. (Stackhouse) route between Bristol and Philadelphia, Headly. Two children blessed the home of which was later known as the Bristol &

Mr. Stackhouse and wife, as follows : Charles Philadelphia Express Company ; at the time H., born October 17, 1876, and Jesse Thomas, our subject's father was connected with the born July i, 1883. Charles H. was graduated express company he resided at Bristol, but from Pierce's Business College and is now his latter days were spent in the city of Phil- head clerk in a general store at Penllyn, adelphia, where he passed from this life at Montgomery County, Pa. Mrs. Stackhouse the age of eighty-six years. Mr. Hall was is a member of the Society of Friends. very successful in his business undertakings,

which was entirely due to his energetic ability and perseverance, and at the time of his retirement he was the possessor of a hand- ILLIAM H. HALL.* This pros- some competency. He was joined in mar- Wiperous and highly respected citi- riage with Mary Ann Guy of Bristol, who zen of Bristol, Pa., who has been in the em- passed from this earth at the age of seventy- ploy of the Pennsylvania Railroad since seven years. Six children resulted from this

1863, is now freight agent of that railroad at happy marriage, namely: Edward, Meribah, Bristol, having assumed the duties of that and Elizabeth (Tice), all deceased; Rebecca oiBce in 1 873. Our subject was born in the (Cone) of Philadelphia; William H., the above-named town, July 27, 1839, and is a gentleman whose name appears at the head 546 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

of this -sketch ; and lyorenzo, deceased. Mr. Jefferson Lodge, I. O. O. P.; K. of P., and has

and Mrs. Hall were active members and passed through all the chairs of this order

liberal supporters of the Methodist Church. and is now a trustee; K. of G. E.; and K. of Politically, he was formerly an old line F. Our subject was one of the organizers of

Whig, but upon the formation of the Repub- the Bristol Fire Company, No. 2, which was

lican party, he joined the latter organization. organized in 1874, and he is now an honorary William H. Hall, the subject of this sketch, member of the same. acquired a good' education in the public

schools of Bristol, and early in life accepted a position on the vessel "Henriette'' as

cook; this vessel operated between Bristol ' ^ EORGE B. WISI.ER.* This prom-

and Boston, Mass. He followed that occu- inent and influential gentleman is pation a number of years, and then entered one of the foremost agriculturists of Bucks the employ of the Delaware River Steamboat County, Pa. ; he has been engaged in farm-

Company as ticket clerk, remaining with ing all his life, having been taught the rudi- that company until 1863, when he accepted ments on his father's farm during his boy- a position as receiving clerk for the Pennsyl- hood days. Mr. Wisler owns a fine farm, vania Railroad, the ofHces being located on well improved and under a high state of cul- Walnut street, Philadelphia. He was pro- tivation, consisting of 75 acres, and it is moted step by step, and in 1873 became sta- handsomely located in Bristol township, near tion and freight agent at Bristol, and has the village of Newportville, one of the best remained in that capacity up to the present agricultural districts in this county. Our time. Mr. Hall is recognized as one of the subject was born and reared on his present worthy and influential members of his com- farm, the date of his birth being August, munity, and commands both the respect and 1854, and he is a son of Philip- F. and Anna good-will of the entire borough and of his (Edwards) Wisler, and grandson of Louis superior ofScers. Wisler. Mr. Hall was wedded, in 1863, to Martha Louis Wisler was a native of Montgomery A. Banes, a daughter of G. Banes, of Bristol, County, Pa., and he was engaged in farming and this happy marriage resulted in the birth and distilling the major part of his active of three children, who were named as follows: days, but was interested at different times in William; Bertha; and Walter. Religiously, various enterprises. He was a member of Mr. Hall and family are active members of the state militia organization in which he was the Methodist Church; politically, he is a a colonel. Politically, he was a solid Demor solid Republican, and has served as a school crat and held various township offices; he director in Bristol several years, and was at was well known throughout his native coun- one time president of the board for a period ty, and was highly esteemed for his many of six years. Socially, he is a member of the excellent traits of character. He was the ; . :;

BUCKS COUNTY 547

father of seven sons and two daughters, all of delphia ; and George B., the subject of this whom grew to maturity and are well-to-do personal history. The father of our subject

members of the various communities in passed from this life in 1890, and his mother

which they reside; the sons were all large, died in 1894. robust men, and their father often boasted George B. Wisler received his intellectual that he had forty-two feet of Democrats. training in the common schools and in the

They were named as follows i John Jacob select school of Miss Pierce, of Bristol ; his ; ;

Samuel ; I,ouis ; Michael ; Henry ; Philip F. early life was spent on the farm, and from

Mary ; and Anna. choice and inclination he delights in agricul-

Philip F. Wisler, the father of our subject, tural pursuits ; at seventeen years he took was born in lyancaster County, Pa., in 1811, charge of the homestead, under the direc- and was educated to agricultui^al pursuits, tion of his father, who had retired from

which was his principal occupation through- the active labors of life. Our subject is

out his entire life. When about thirty-three held in high esteem by his fellow- citizens

years of age, he moved to Bristol township, he is popular and enjoys the distinction of this county, and purchased a brick-yard near being one of the enterprising and pirogressive

the village of Newportville, which he oper- farmers of -his section. Mr. Wisler still

ated many years ; he also owned the farm owns the brickyard which was once oper- now the home of our subject, upon which he ated by his father, and upon this piece of made many improvements, such as erecting property stands a large brick building which

new buildings and putting the land under a is now used as a rope manufacturing estab- high state of cultivation. Mr. Wisler was lishment; the work is superintended by born and reared a Democrat, and always up- our subject's father-in-law, and they carry held the principles of that party both by on quite an extensive business in that ballot and by vote; he was elected township line.

auditor for a period of twenty years, and was Mr. Wisler is an earnest supporter of the also elected justice of the peace two terms, Democratic party, and has served his fellow- much against his will. He was an intelli- citizens as township auditor for a term of

gent and well-read citizen, and during his four years. Our subject chose for his life latter days, when he became disabled from companion Mary Benton Garsed, and they

rheumatism, he wrote many articles for news- were happily wedded in 1890; she is a papers. He was joined in the bonds of wed- daughter of John and Mary (Benton) Garsed, lock with Anna Edwards, who was born in and was born in Frankford, Philadelphia the Twenty-third Ward of Philadelphia in County, Pa. Three children blessed the 1814, and who is a daughter of Jesse and home of Mr. and Mrs. Wisler, namely Sarah (Wentz) Edwards. Two children re- Rowland; Margaret M.; and Joyce G. -Mrs. sulted from this marriage, namely : Sairah Wisler is a devoted member of the Episco- Elizabeth, the wife of Wilner Scott of Phila- pal Church. 28 ;

548 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

'AMES W. ROBERTS,* who will long cigar manufacturer of Philadelphia. Reli- be remembered as the leading mer- giously, they were consistent members of the chant and produce dealer of Milford Society of Friends. Mrs. Roberts also

Square, and one of its early citizens, is now reached an advanced age before overtaken by spending his declining years in retirement and the silent reaper. Death, at the age of seventy in the enjoyment of the fruits of a laborious years. and well-spent past. He was born in Milford James W. Roberts, in whom the interest of township, Bucks County, August 28, 1824, this sketch centers, attended the Friends'

and is a son of Samuel and Jane (Walton) School of Quakertown and assisted his father Roberts, and grandson of David Roberts. in the duties upon the farm until he was His great-grandfather came to this country twenty-two years of age, when he launched

with two brothers from Wales, and located in upon the sea of life in his own behalf with Milford township, Bucks County, where he scarcely any capital. He went to Ohio and

purchased 250 acres of choice land and put it began dealing in cattle, sheep, and horses, in under a high state of cultivation. Upon this which business he continued with much suc- property David Roberts was born and reared. cess for seven years. Being a man of unerr- He inherited the estate and erected a fine ing judgment, and an excellent judge of

stone house from native rock, which is to-day stock, he bought and sold to good advantage, in an excellent state of preservation. He was and during that period accumulated consider-

the progenitor of six children, as follows : able money for one of his years. From Ohio

Samuel, the father of our subject ; William he went to New York, and finally to Penn-

Abigail; Jane J.; Eliza; and Mary. sylvania, where he continued at that line of Samuel Roberts was reared on the old business until he moved to Trumbauersville, homestead, and after attaining manhood be- Pa., and entered upon mercantile pursuits.

came its owner. He added to his property Four years later, about 1843, he located in by the purchase of the A. Morgan estate, Milford Square, when there were but three

where he rebuilt the house and barns and buildings in what is now a thriving borough, erected other new buildings and engaged in the three buildings consisting of a hotel, a agricultural pursuits the remainder of his store, and one dwelling house. Mr. Roberts active life. He died at the age of seventy-two purchased the corner lot of the estate of Mr. years. He was twice united in marital Album, upon which he built a large house bonds, his first union being with a Miss Pen- and opened a store. He became extensively rose, who died young as did also their only engaged in the produce commission business, child. He was again married to Jane Wal- cariying butter, eggs, and like produce to the ton, a daughter of David Walton, and the fol- markets in Philadelphia and returning with lowing children blessed their happy home : stock for his and seven other stores which James W.; Barton, a produce commission were situated upon his route. His business merchant of Philadelphia; and Smith, a reached enormous proportions and he had BUCKS COUNTY 549

large loads both ways, at times carrying 1500 Tg -ARRY W. CRESSMAN, * the popular I pounds of butter and other produce. It " ^\ and efficient postmaster of Hagers- I'equired from four to six horses on every trip ville, Bedminster township, Bucks

and it took four or five days to cover the forty County, is also the proprietor of the leading miles to Philadelphia. He followed that general merchandise store of that village.

business with the greatest of success for a He was born in Philadelphia, Pa., July 23,

period of forty years, when the railroad was 1865, and is a son of Jacob B. and Sarah built to Milford Square and greatly interfered (Wesco) Cressman. with his work. He then purchased a tract His grandfather on the paternal side was of 20 acres of land, which he now oversees, Elias Cressman, who lived in Quakertown, but performs none of the active duties him- Pa., and followed farming throughout his

self. In 1873, he erected a handsome 3-story entire life. He was joined in wedlock with house, a wagon house, and large barns, mak- Maria Brandt, and four children were born

ing his farm one of the most modern and best to them, as follows : Jacob B. ; Mabel; Wash-

equipped in this section of the country. For ington ; and Mary. some years, Mr. Roberts was president of the Jacob B. Cressman, the father of our sub- turnpike of the township, and at one time ject, was born in Rockhill township, Bucks

was nominated for sheriff, but was defeated County, and throughout life was engaged in liy the small margin of seven votes. He has the occupation of a farmer and blacksmith, made the interests of Milford Square his at which he has been decidedly successful. interests and has aided in building up and He resided at Quakertown for some time and

elevating the village to its present standing. then moved to Trumbauersville, where he is He has a large circle of friends throughout now following agricultural pursuits. He the northern part of the county, where he was was united in marriage with Sarah Wesco, one of the progressive men for so many years, who was born in Wescosville, I^ehigh County,

and is held in high esteem by all who have where her father was the proprietor of a the pleasure of his acquaintance. hotel. This union was blessed by the birth Our subject was united in matrimonial of two children, namely: Harry W., the sub-

bonds with Susan Anderson, and they be- ject of this biographical sketch ; and Frank

came the proud parents of the following chil- I/., born April, 1869, who is a cigarmaker of

dren : John, who died young Jane, the wife Sellersville, and married Amanda Trum- ; of Rev. John Bears, a missionary of the Men- bauer, by whom he has two children, Mary

nonite Church ; Samuel, a farmer and com- and Ward. mission merchant of Milford Square, who Harry W. Cressman obtained his intellec- married Ida Farley, by whom he has one tual training in the public schools and at the

daughter, Jane Irene ; and one daughter who Keystone State Normal School at Kutztown, died in infancy. In religious belief, they are Berks County, from which he was graduated faithful members of the Mennonite Church. in 1884, He then became a teacher in the :

550 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

public schools in Milford township, where he jEV. FERDINAND BERKEMEYER,* remained for two years, and then at Sellers- a man of noble impulses and schol-

ville for five years, proving himself an able arly attainments, was for many instructor. In September, 1891, he pur- years pastor of two charges near Sellersville, chased a portion of the Aaron Fretz estate, which he served faithfully and well for a period which he still owns, and upon which he of thirty-six years, but is now spending his erected a store, equipped with a comprehen- declining years in the enjoyment of retired life sive line of general merchandise. He has after so many years of activity. He is a son of acquired a large patronage by hard and Ferdinand Berkemeyer, and was born in Al- honest work, and his success is entirely bany township, Berks County, April 10, 1828. due to his own efforts. He is shrewd and Ferdinand Berkemeyer, the father of our calculating, but his success was not made subject, was born in Westphalia, Oerlinghau-

to the detriment of the welfare of others. sen, Germany, February 13, 1790, and came He has made many friends since his resi- to this country at about the age of twenty

dence in Hagersville and stands in high years, so it is thought. Having received an esteem. He has been postmaster of the vil- excellent education in the schools of Ger- lage since 1891, and performs the duties many, which surpass those of any other of that ofSce in a satisfactory manner. countiy, he was well qualified to follow the

Politically, he is, a stanch Deinocrat and profession of a teacher. He first located in has served in an oflScial capacity as school Greenwich township, Berks County, where director, although he has never sought he taught for some time, and later was like- office. wise employed in Albany township, Berks December 24, 1885, he was united in mar- County, after which he moved to Heidelberg riage with Salvina Reiter of Trumbauers- township, I/chigh County, and there lived ville, a daughter of Josiah and Elizabeth and taught for a period of twenty-four years. Reiter, and they have three children, namely It was mainly by his earnest endeavors that R. Gertrude, born October 31, 1886; Jacob the citizens of Lehigh County adopted the

Frederick, who was born March 10, 1890, present public school system, for which ser- and died at the age of six months ; and vice he deserves the greatest credit. He was Helen Katherine, born March 29, 1894. well known as a man of integrity and good Religiously, they are consistent members of judgment, and his advice was frequently the lyutheran Church. Socially, Mr. Cress- sought, and he was called upon to draw up

man is a member of I^odge No. 658, I. O. many, wills, and act as clerk of sales. After F., of Sellersville O. ; and Brotherhood of living a useful and unassuming life, he passed the Union, No. 36, of Hagersville. He has into the unknown beyond in the sixty-seventh been greatly interested in the advancement year of his age. . He was united in marriage of the village and supports all worthy enter- with Judith Glaser, a native of Kutztown, prises. Pa., who was born November 24, 1800, and ;

BUCKS COUNTY 551

died in 1882, at an advanced age. Their of charges, which now form six different pas-

union resulted in the following issue : Caro- torates, but later filled the pulpits of only two

line (Ross), deceased ; Augustus, deceased churches, continuing for a period of thirty-six ; Wilhelmina (Kemmerer), deceased; Ferdi- years. During his early career in Bucks nand, in -whom the interest of this sketch County, he would often conduct services at

centers ; I^ouisa (Bowman), deceased two different points on the same day, which ; Wil-

liam, a resident of AUentown ; Henrietta necessitated long journeys in carriages. In

(Snyder), whose home is in Slatington, Le- addition to this, he was called upon to offici-

high County ; Amelia, deceased ; Dr. lyouis, ate at funerals throughout the district. Rev.

a practicing physician of AUentown ; Charles, Mr. Berkemeyer was an earnest and convinc-

deceased ; Henry, who lives at AUentown ing speaker, a consistent and God-fearing and Jacob, of Hazelton, Pa. In religious Christian, and the vast amount of good

attachments, Mr. Berkemeyer was a member resulting from his labors can never be esti-

of the German Reformed Church, and his mated. In 189s, he retired from active worthy wife belonged to the lyUtheran de- duties to spend his declining years in the nomination. Politically, during his latter peace and quiet of his happy home in Sellers-

days he supported the principles of the old ville, where he is dearly loved by a large cir-

line Whig party. cle of acquaintances and friends. He is nat- Rev. Ferdinand Berkemeyer obtained his urally of a literary mind and has written a primary education under the tutelage of his number of articles for the Church Review^ father, this instruction being entirely in Ger- which attracted considerable attention and

man, after which he attended the AUentown showed a marked degree of merit. In 1892, Academy for a short time. After the Allen- he published a work entitled "Pastor and town Seminary was established by Rev. Rob- People," or which might be called " Pastoral

ert Kessler, he took a course in that institu- Theology" as it describes such ministerial tion, and was prepared for college. In 1853, acts as are not prescribed in the rituals of the

he matriculated at the Theological Seminary church. It is an excellent literary effort and

at Gettysburg, where he was prepared for the is highly valued by ministers far and wide

ministry, graduating in 1855 after a two who have read it. Rev. Mr. Berkemeyer has years' course. He was ordained in the lyUth- an ingenious mind as well as literary talent, eran Church of Reading in that year, and his and has patents on a number of important

first charge was in the Chohansey Church at inventions, which are the results of his

Friesburg, N. J., where he served for two labors. One of these is a very comfortable years. He then moved to AUentown, where aud useful library chair which is now being he served different charges in the neighbor- placed upon the market and introduced hood for three years, when he came to Sel- throughout the country. Another invention of lersville, Bucks County, in the fall of 1859. value, and a great labor-saver, is a machine, He assumed the duties of pastor of a number which prints, cuts, counts and packs ribbons 552 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIES

of any length into bundles of lOO each, the highly cultivated land. The Krout family four acts being done simultaneously. The is an old and honored one of the county, as inventive genius was also characteristic of his its members were among the early residents father as he put upon the market a cabbage of this section of the state. William M. cutter, whose sales reached large proportions. Krout was born in the above township, Sep-

Rev. Mr. Berkemeyer was united in the tember 19, 1863, and is a son of Joseph and holy bonds of wedlock with Catherine Habe- Catherine (Musselman) Krout. racker, a daughter of George Haberacker, of The grandfather of our subject, John Allentown, Pa., and they are the happy par- Krout, was born in New Britain township, ents of five children. Sarah E. is the eldest. Bucks County, where he was a life-long resi- Charles M., who was born September 21, dent; his vocation was that of a farmer, i860, after obtaining an education in the which he pursued throughout his entire life. schools of Sellersville, established a printing He was the father of a family of children, office in that village in 1875. In 1889, he one of whom was Joseph, the father of our built him a home, and two years later remod- subject, who was also a native of New Britain eled the building in the rear of the house, in township ; he was reared to agricultural pur- which he has since conducted his business. suits and made farming his life's vocation,

He is an enterprising and progressive man, and made his home all his life where our and does a large and lucrative business. He subject now resides. As a result of his mar- married Augusta L^imberg, a daughter of riage with Catherine Musselman, a family of Frederick and Carolina I^imberg, of Kohl- ten children was born, namely : John, a resi- stadt, Ivippe-Detmold, Germany, and they are dent of Montgomery County, Pa. ; William the parents of two children: Catherine M., M., whose name heads the lines above ; Sam- born May 4, 1890; and Margaret E., born uel, a resident of Chester County, Pa. ; Sallie, October 15, 1892. The remaining members the wife of Daniel Spetty, and they reside of our subject's family are : Anna L,., Flora at Ft. Washington, Pa.; Addie, the wife of C.,and George M. In his political affilia- Joseph Whitesides, a resident of Frog Hollow, tions. Rev. Mr. Berkemeyer is a Republican, Chester County, Pa. ; Catherine and I/izzie, and votes uniformly and conscientiously with deceased; Joseph and Henry also deceased; that party. and Annie Mary who is attending school at Ft. Washington, Pa.

William M. Krout attended the district

ILIvIAM M. KROUT.* The gen- schools during his boyhood days and his leis- Witleman whose name heads this ure hours were spent aiding his father in run- biographical sketch is a widely known and ning the farm, thus he acquired a good educa- successful farmer and stock-raiser, and is tion in farm life ; after our subject's marriage, located in New Britain township on the old he took possession of his present farm, which Todd farm, 162I which consists of acres of he has since greatly improved and put under —;

BUCKS COUNTY 553

a high state of cultivation'. He not only Peter Bean was born near the river Rhine resided many years carries on general farming, but is one of the in Germany, where he ; largest stock raisers in the township. Mr. when he came to this country to seek a home Krout has always been a careful and thrifty aud fortune, he located in Bucks County, farmer, and his possessions are the results of and may be justly classed among this sec-

his own energy and perseverance ; he stands tion's pioneers. He took up a large tract of high in the estimation of every one who land in Rockhill township, where he carried knows him, as a prosperous farmer, a good on farming until death claimed him. He citizen and an excellent neighbor. was the father of the following children,

Politically, Mr. Krout firmly endorses the Michael ; Samuel ; Peter ; Mary ; Eva; Han- the grandfather principles of the Republican party; relig- nah ; and John. John Bean,

iously, he is a member and deacon of the of our subject, was born and reared in Rock-

Reformed Church of Pleasantville, Pa., to hill township ; early in life he learned the the support of which he cheerfully con- trade of a carpet weaver, which occupation tributes. The wife of Mr. Krout, who before he successfully carried on with farming, hav- her marriage was Sallie Hoover, to whom he ing purchased a farm of Elias Kiser, which

was married on December 17, 1885, was property was located near the village of born in Warrington township, Bucks Coun- Brick Tavern. His union with Sarah Weir-

ty, December 10, 1865, and is a daughter of bach was blessed with the birth of seven

Tilman A. and Maria (Garner) Hoover ; her children, named as follows : Peter ; Hannah

father was a school teacher in early life, but Samuel ; Susan John ; Catherine ; and Mil- ;

is now engaged in farming. Two children ton W. Mr. Bean and family were mem- were born to Mr. and Mrs. Krout, and were bers and active supporters of the Reformed

named as follows: Myrtle, born April 6, Church. He died at the age of fifty-seven, 1888; and Cassie, who died aged three years. and his wife at the age of sixty-two years. Milton W. Bean, the father of our subject,

was born at Brick Tavern June 1 1, 1846, and his boyhood days were spent in assisting his UTrANK H. bean,* a well-known and father, and in learning the trade of a shoe-

I Is esteemed school teacher of Milford maker, which occupation he has since fol-

township, Bucks County, Pa., is one of the lowed to a large extent. He purchased the prominent and enterprising citizens of Brick George Kline farm, upon which he has made

Tavern. This worthy gentleman was born many improvements ; in addition to general considerable butchering at Milford Square, this county, August 13, farming, he does and throughout the township. Mr. 1869, and is a son of Milton W. and Mary peddles meat (Heller) Bean, grandson of John and Sarah Bean is widely known throughout the coun- (Weirbach) Bean, and great-grandson of Peter ty, and is highly esteemed by his fellow- Bean. countrymen. He was joined in the bonds of ;

554 BOOK OF BIOGRAPHIKS

wedlock with Mary Heller, a daughter of sion for a period of ten years. He is now Samuel Heller, a prominent resident of Mil- attending the Perkiomen Seminary of Penns- ford township, and this union has been burgj Pa., where he is taking a special course blessed by the following children : Frank for teaching. He is well fitted for his pro-

H., whose name heads this personal history fession and is a master of both the English

Ellen Kate; Eleanor H.; Sally H. ; and and German languages. During the sum- John S. They are all members of the Re- mer months he also assists his father in formed Church. the work about the farm, and prepares him-

The subject of this brief notice received self for the opening of school in the fall. his education in the public schools of his Mr. Bean is actively interested in every mea- native township, and in 1888 began teaching sure affecting the welfare of Brick Tavern, in Milford township and adjoining districts, and he is very popular with his fellow-towns- and has successfully continued that profes- men. INDEX

Biograpbical

A PAGE FAGB PAGE Benner, Dr. W. G 3'3 Cooper, John F. . 294 Aaron, Irvin 199 Berger, Samuel . . . 113 Cooper, William I,. 432 Abbott, Dr. J. de Benneville . . 478 Bergey, Rev. James Riley . . 233 Cornell, George W. III Albright, Phares 265 Berkemeyer, Rev. Ferdinand 550 Cornell, Jonathan K. 76 Anderson, James 378 Biddle Family, The . . . 127 Cornell, Theodore . 120 Apple, Samuel Y 282 Blackfan, George Chapman . 43 Craven, Charles . 531 Applebach, Paul H 351 Briggs, Phineas . . 332 Craven, Linford R. . 419 Atkinson, Howard W 479 Briggs, Thomas •85 Cressman, Harry W. 549 Atkinson, John L 271 Brock, John J. 413 Cressman, Philip S. 228 Atkinson, Joseph 499 Bunting, Edwin M. 259 Atkinson, Thomas 491 Burkhardt, Anthony 221 Aveyard, William 439 Burton, John, Esq. 52 Dana, Robert Shoemaker, Bush, William H. . 243 M.D 159 B Detweiler, Aaron B. 222

Detwiler, Henry C. . . 235 Balderston, William 118 C Detweiler, Mahlon C. 341 Ball, Aaron . . 166 Dickel, Henry C. . . 54 Barney, John Jackson . . . 322 Cadwallader, Algernon S. . . 169 Diehl, Rev. Samuel S. . 172

Bassett, Samuel 431 Cadwall ader, Charles Moore . 492 Dill, Dr. Mahlon B. . . 382

Bean, Frank . .... 147 Carrell, Ezra P...... 500 Donnaldson, Edward M. 367 Bean, Frank H 553 Carter, Franklin . 371 Doughty, Dr. William E. 337 Bean, Henry H. 148 Carver, William K . 423 Drexel, Mrs. Lucy Wharton 15 Bean, Wilson W 467 Cawley, Dr. James Irving . -417 Dungan, John K 521 Beans, Charles D 536 Chambers, Thomas Preston . . 145 Dungan, Wallace . . . 407 Beans, Frederick T 390 Church, Watson P 186

Beans, J. Johnson 440 Clemens Family, The . . . . 319 £ Beck, Oscar P 56 Comly, Joseph R 255

Beidler, Henry S 272 Conrad, James 138 Eastburn, Albert , 508 Benner, John K 481 Constantine, Fred 490 Ely, Edward N. 403 555 .

556 INDEX

PAGE PAGE

Ely, Franklin . . 520 Haring, Emil W 354 PAGE

Landis, William H. . Ely, Henry Paxson 427 Harrison, Thomas . . . . 213

Laubach, Charles . Erdman, Dr. William S. . Hartzell, C. Monroe 90 533

Lear, Henry . . 41 Erdman, Wilson S., M. D. 509 Harvey, Theodore P. . . 227

Le£Ferts, Simon V. . Harvey, William D. . . . 368 13s Heacock, Leibfreid, Frederick 464 F J. Levi 347 Leidy, Milton H. . . Headley, Harry H 274 163 Fackenthall, George Washington. 487 Livezey, Allen . . . 327 Headly, Mrs. Elizabeth (Brown) . 300 Fahr, John William, M.D. . . 393 Livezey, B. Franklin Hellings, Edmund R 312 4S9 Fell, Byron M., D. D.S. . . . 331 Long, J. Ferdinand . 383 Hellings, James P 33 Fell, EHas Hicks 504 Hellyer, Loux, Mathias J. . 30 Amos S . . 349 Fell, William Henry Harrison . 373 Loux, Ulysses G. . . Hendricks, Joseph A. . . . 151 458 Fetter, David S 409 Luff, Franklin P. . . Heston, Isaiah 229 370 Fetter, Newton Cromwell .... 79 Luff, Harry K. . . . Heston, Joseph A 180 381 Fine, William H. H 296

Hindenach, Hon. Christian E. . . 288 Finney, Joseph ... 106 M Hines, Dr. Andrew Firman, Alfred Ely J 497 ... 45 Magill, James E. . . ios Hobensack Brothers . . . 340 Fleck, Rev. Cyrus 1, 191 Markgraf, Adam . . 293 Hofmeier, Anton . . , 204 Foulke, Dr. Richard C. . . 212 Maris, George L. . . 241 Howell, William G. . -74 Frankenfield, Edwin P. . 470 Martin, Dr. William 267 Houk, Nathan 250 Freed, Samuel Z. . 49 Michener, Dr. Isaiah 95 Humphreys, Charles H. . . .66 Fretz, Dr. . . . Clayton D. . 244 Moon, M. Watson 140 Hutchinson, Cheston 18 Fretz, Oliver H., A.M., M.D. . 1S9 Moon, William-H. lod

Funk, Hon. . . Henry S. . 182 Morris, Jesse 65 Moyer, Abraham George 442 G Jefferys, Rev. Edward Miller, B.A., Moyer, Hon. Henry G. 203

Geil, William Fenton 268 B.D 398 Moyer, Joseph G. . . . 540 George Jenks, George School 237 A 219 Mull, Robert W 73 Gilkeson, A. Weir 477 John, C. C. Burleigh 153

Gilkyson, John T gi Johnson, Alfred ...... 97 N

Gill, • Neidig, . . , Henry 525 Johnson, Benjamin E. . 424 Ephraim S. 171 Gill, Nicholas, Alonzo J. Alva 99 Johnson, Edwin 260 103

Gillam, Nicholas, • Harvey H. . . 36 Johnson, Hampton Watson . . 468 John 428 Greer, Nickel, Mrs. Elizabeth K. . . .523 Johnson, Winder Lawrence . . 143 John H 286

Grim, Dr. F. Harvey .... 387 Joyce, Anthony K 280 Grim, Webster 359 O GrofF, O'Connell, Dr. James E 249 K Austin, M. D. . . . 302 Groff, Jacob S 290 Osman, Dr. Joseph Reed . . 214 Kerns, Dr. S. P 457 Gross, Daniel G 215 Ott, Wilmer W 314 Kinsey, Mrs. Jane G. . . . 278 Gulick, Christopher S 310 Kirk, Amos W 411 Kirk, Edwin J 514 Parry, Richard Randolph .... 59 H Kramer, Samuel R 139 Patterson, Hon. James . . . . 109 Hall, William H Krewson, 545 Rev. Jacob B 193 Pearson, Wilson 277 Hall, William W 121 Krout, William M 552 Penrose, Samuel J 136 INDEX 557

PAGE PAGE w Peters, Byron M., M.D. . . . 379 Scott, Joseph N 507 Phillips, Charles 285 Sensenderfer, John P. J. . 202 Pool, Winfield S 369 Sheip, Rev. Levi C 474 Poore, JohnT 511 Shellenberger, Levi . . . 132

Preston, Rev. William K. . . . 209 Shick, William . . 287

Purdy, John M. . , . . . 447 Shimer, Robert A 45'

Shoemaker, Hon. Harry J. . 27 R Simpson, William 360

Slack, Miss Mary . . 412 Randall, John G 401 Slotter, Anthony H. ... 251 Rapp, Ryan 51 Slotter, Prof. William H. . . 301 Raudenbush, William H 184 Smith, Dr. Harrison . 530 Reeder, Orlenzo C...... 454 Smith, Harvey R 194 Reetz, Ferdinand 377 Stackhouse, John R 437 Reinhart, Joshua D. K 450 Stackhouse, William M. . . 543 Reiter, Prof. Henry F 503 Stettler, Dr. William Henry 35 Reiter, Joseph W 125

St. Mark's Catholic Church . Rich, 31 Howard Y. ... . 241 Stoneback, Harvey W. 452 Rich, James S 224

Strobele, Mathias . . 482 Rich, Preston J 502 Summers, Edmund L. 422 Richardson, Edward 363 Swartley, John C, Esq. . IS Ridge, William A. ... 542 Swenk, Jacob L. . . 179 Riegel, John L 343

Robbins, John . ... 317 T Roberts, James W 548 Taylor, Benjamin J. . . . 69 Rorer, Rev. Charles H 195 Thompson, Warner C. . . 299 Rosenberger, Jacob B 114 Torbert, Elijah S 156 Ross, Hon. George 11

Rufe, Josiah H 392 Rufe, William 420

Sassaman, Jacob F. . ... 154 Scheid, Henry B 211

Schlachter, Gustavus H. . . . 117 Schlichter, William S 529 Schwenk, Charles P 165

Scott, Josiah Ernest, M. D. . . 162 portraits

PAGE PAGE

Aaron, Irvin ... . . 198 Hendricks, Joseph A. . . . . 150 Rich, Howard Y. " 240

L,. . 270 Atkinson, John Hines, Dr. Andrew J 496 Robbins, John . ... .316

Bean, Wilson W 466 Jenks, George A 218 Ross, Hon. George . . . Frontispiece

Bergey, Rev. James Riley .... 234 Johnson, Walter R. and Winder Scott, Joseph N 506

Cadwallader, Algernon S. . .168 T-, 142 Schlachter, Mr. and Mrs. Gusta-

Cawley, Dr. James Irving . . . . 416 Kerns, Dr. S. P 456 vus H 116

Comly, Joseph R...... 254 Lear, George 38 Schlichter, William S., . 528

Dana, Robert Shoemaker, M.D. 158 . . Lear, Henry 39 Shoemaker, Hon. Harry J. . 26

Donnaldson, Capt. Richard Martin 366 LeflFerts, Simon V 134 Stackhouse, John R 436

'.'^. Doughty, Dr. William E. . . . 336 Livezey, Allen 326 Swenk, Jacob L. . . . . 178 Dungan, Wallace 406 Markgraf, Adam 292 Taylor, Benjamin J. 68 Ely, Henry Faxson 426 Michener, Dr. Isaiah 94 Thompson, Warner C. . . . 298 Fackenthall, George Washington 486 Nicholas, Alonzo . 102 Turner, Rev. Douglas K 356

Fetter, Newton Cromwell . . -78 Parry, Richard Randolph .... 58 Walter, John B 516

Freed, Samuel Z. 48 Patterson, . Hon. James ... 108 Walter, Mrs. Adeline E. • . Si7

Fretz, Oliver H., A.M., . . Pearson, M.D. r88 Wilson 276 Weaver.MiltonH., M.D. . 86

. Gilkeson, A. Weir . . . 476 Phillips, Charles ...... 284 Weirbach, Samuel 396

Dr. . . Grim, F. Harvey .386 Preston, Rev. William K. . . . 208 Weierbach, Zeno W 262

Gro£f, Dr. James E *. 248 Purdy, John M 446 Worrell, Edward ... .538

Harvey, Theodore P 226 Reetz, Ferdinand 376 Yerkes, Harman 20

Heacock, J. I^evi 346 Reiter, Joseph W 124 Youngken, Mr. and Mrs. John N. 306

558