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Pennsylvania Trails History and Genealogy

Erdman, Hon. Ira T.

HON. IRA T. ERDMAN, lawyer and representative in the General Assembly from the Allentown District, was born at Ruchsville, Lehigh County, Pa., the son of Lewis B. and Alice M. Erdman. He attended the public schools of his native township until the age of ten. Later he attended the Allentown public schools and was graduated from the Allentown High School with the class of 1890. He then entered Muhlenberg College, being graduated in 1894. Mr. Erdman then taught teh public schools of Salisbury Township, and for a period of two years was principal of the South Allentown schools. During vacations he studied law in the offices of Hon. M. C. Henninger, and was admitted to practice at the Lehigh County bar in 1899. In 1902, on the Democratic ticket, he was elected prothonotary of Lehigh County, proving himself to be a faithful and efficient public servant. In 1914 he was elected to the Legislature of Pennsylvania from the First (City of Allentown) District of Lehigh County. He was re-elected in 1916. By reason of his ability as a public speaker and his traiing as a lawyer, Mr. Erdman is admirably fitted for legislative work, and during his term of office he has represented his district with keen interest, ability and fidelity. Mr. Erdman meanwhile has continued the practice of law and enjoys a large clientele.