ROBERT ADAMS, of the firm of Conkling & Co., dealers in all kinds of books and stationery, and agents for the Adams Express Company, Danville, was born in Farrandsville, Penn., May 22, 1838, a son of Robert and Hester (Jodon) Adams. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania and of Irish origin. The father was a boot and shoe manufacturer. Robert is the youngest in a family of five children, and grew to manhood in Danville; was educated at the Danville Academy and graduated in 1856. Except the time spent in school he has been with Mr. Conkling since he was eleven years of age, first being employed with him as a boy in the store, then as clerk, and later bought a partial interest in the business. In 1866 Mr. Conkling took him in as full partner, and their relationship has since existed without a word of discord. Mr. ADAMS has been connected with the Adams Express Company at Danville since 1854. The firm own their store room, and have fitted it up especially for their business, and also own the room for the express office. Mr. Adams is a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Danville, pg. 141 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JACOB ALBECK, farmer, P. O. Muncy, was born in the kingdom of Wurtemburg (now the empire of Germany), August 4, 1823, son of Michael and Rosanna (Hoss) Albeck, former of whom was a farmer in the old country. In 1830 they came to America in a sailing vessel, and after a voyage of forty-two days, landed at New York. They remained there long enough to buy a horse, and, with a wagon brought over from the old country, they started by wagon road, and eventually landed on the Muncy Hills, with their eight children. The names of these children are Gottlieb, in Anthony Township, this county: Michael, in Lycoming County, Penn.; George (deceased); John, in Danville, this county: Michael, in Lycoming County, Penn.; George (deceased); John, in Danville, this county; Jacob; Rosanna (deceased); Catharine (deceased); Christianna, wife of Isaac Kisner, in Clarkestown, Lycoming Co., Penn. The father settled where Jacob now resides, and here lived until his death, which occurred December 23, 1862; his widow died November 11, 1866; they bought sixty-two acres of land when they came, and Jacob has since added to it until he has now 143 acres. There were five acres cleared when they came. Our subject was married in this county September 11, 1851, to Miss Mary Andy, a daughter of Daniel and Christiann (Carmlich) Andy, both of whom are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Albeck are the parents of six children, of whom five are living: William Henry; Daniel; Sarah, wife of Jacob Waller, in Anthony Township; Emma and Ellen. Christiana is deceased. Mr. Albeck and family are members of the Lutheran Church at Clarkestown, Lycoming County. He was tax collector for five years for Anthony Township, this county. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle - 1887 Anthony Township pg. 180 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JESSE C. AMERMAN, merchant and farmer, P. O. Danville, was born in Northumberland County, Penn., February 4, 1821, son of Henry and Susanna (Cook) Amerman, the former a native of New Jersey and the latter of Montgomery County, Penn. His great-great-grandfather came over with the Dutch colonists and settled in New York. His grandfather, Albert, came from new Jersey and settled in Northumberland County, Penn., in 1800, where he bought a tract of land and remained his lifetime, dying in 1821. He served in the war of the Revolution. He was a farmer previous to the war, in the interior of the State of new Jersey, and when the war broke out he gave up his horses and cattle and stock of all kinds, a sacrifice upon the altar of his country' liberty. He had his knee-cap taken off at the battle of Monmouth. Our subject's father, who was only a small boy when he came to Northumberland County with his parents, worked on the farm during his father's life, after which he learned the shoemaker's trade, which he followed a number of years, but during the latter part of his life he followed farming exclusively, his sons, Jesse C. and Isaac, having purchased the old homestead. His father died in 1855 and his mother in 1865. They were the parents of eleven children, five of whom survive: Isaac; Jesse C.; William, in Illinois; Harriet N., wife of Mr. Crowell, and Andrew J., a Baptist minister in Illinois. Our subject helped his father on the farm, going to school three months in the winter, till he was nineteen; then he began boating on the canal, a business he followed during the summer, while he taught school in the winter. The boating he continued fifteen years, but gave up school-teaching after about six years. During the latter part of his boating he and his brother Isaac engaged in merchandising and dealing in grain in Danville. They owned a boat, by which they carried grain, etc., to Philadelphia. This they kept up until 1853, when our subject bought the farm of sixty-eight acres where he now lives in Cooper Township, Montour County, and has since lived here. He is also engaged in merchandising, keeping store at his home. Our subject in 1863, when the Confederate Army under command of Gen. Lee invaded his State, volunteered and took up arms to resist the invasion. In 1873 he was elected a member of the Legislature, and re-elected in 1874, on the Democratic ticket, under the old constitution. He has held a number of township offices. Mr. Amerman was married December 2, 1845, to Caroline Strohm, by whom he had nine children, five of whom are yet living: Lemuel, an attorney in Scranton, Penn.; Alvaretta, wife of F. A. Beidleman; Caroline, wife of Jacob S. Coxey; Laura and Ella. Alonzo, who died in January, 1886, was a physician, having practiced ten years. Mrs. Amerman died April 19, 1869, and our subject then married, September 26, 1871, Margaret J. Appleman, by whom he has two children: Charles V. and Edwin C. His son Lemuel has been a member of the Legislature for two terms, having been elected on the Democratic ticket. He is now State reporter for the supreme court. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Cooper Township pg. 190 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

WILLIAM AMESBURY, coal merchant, Church Street, Danville, was born in England November 26, 1825, a son of Richard and Harriet (Pernell) Amesbury. He is the second in a family of seven children, and at the age of eight years ran away from home rather than attend school. He first obtained employment where a railroad was being built, making himself useful by carrying tools, etc., and was soon the pet of the workmen. He earned twenty-five cents a day, which gave him an ample supply of money for his wants, and thus employed remained until he was twelve years old. He then went to Scotland and worked with railroad men two years, at the end of which time he returned to England and began to work in the mines at Yorkshire. There he remained until the age of twenty-two, when he came to America; remained a short time in New York, and then came to Danville, where he was employed in the iron mines one year. He then went to St. Louis, Mo., where he engaged with a company to travel in search of lead and copper mines, which he made his employment for some time, and during which period made several important discoveries. He traveled extensively in that business, has been in all the States and Territories in South America, Canada, England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and has crossed the ocean from America to England three times. He carried on mining, employing from forty to fifty men, and, although his education is limited, he was his own bookkeeper and kept all his accounts. He married, in 1854, Miss Maria, daughter of Richard Cook and of English origin. Five children blessed their union: William, Mary (wife of Thomas Cromwell), Adaline, Jennie and Arthur. Mr. and Mrs. Amesbury are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is independent. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Danville, pg. 141 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

W. H. AMMERMAN, insurance agent, Danville, was born in Northumberland County, Penn., November 19, 1834, a son of Robert S. (a farmer) and Margaret (Johnson) Ammerman natives of Pennsylvania, and of Scotch descent, who had a family of seven children, W. H. being second. Our subject received his education in his native county, chose farming as his occupation, and followed it until the age of twenty-three. He then obtained a certificate, and taught school several years, after which he accepted a position as agent for The Farmer's Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Middle Pennsylvania, and was sent to Lycoming County, Penn., where he carried on the business for twelve years, and still represents it at Danville. The available collateral assets of this company, July 15, 1886, were $269,128.48, and the company is now in a flourishing condition. During that time he had his home at Danville, and when, in 1871, the Danville Mutual Fire Insurance Company was organized, he was elected its secretary, which position he still holds. In 1867 he formed a partnership with Patterson Johnson, and the firm did a general insurance business for eighteen years, until the death of Mr. Johnson in 1883. The latter had been secretary of the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company of Middle Pennsylvania, and, upon his death, that company prevailed upon our subject to take the position and look after their interests until the election. When they met they elected Mr. Ammerman secretary, and he has since increased the capital stock of the company. He was actively engaged for a time, and is associated with David R. Williams, of Danville, in the general fire insurance business. These gentlemen are careful business men and represent none but first-class companies, such as the following: AEtna of Hartford, Conn.; Fire Association of Philadelphia; Germania, of New York City; Girard, of Philadelphia; Imperial, of London, England; Lancashire, of Manchester, England; Phoenix, of Hartford, Conn.; Royal, of Liverpool, England. Mr. Ammerman has had a long experience in the insurance business, for which his qualifications eminently fit him, and to which the high rank he now occupies among leading insurance men is due. He has been twice married; first, November 26, 1864, to Mary J. Rogers, who bore him six children and died in 1875. She was a member of the Episcopal Church, and of English origin. His second marriage took place February 6, 1879, with Wilhamina Morgan. Mr. Ammerman has served as a member of the school board of Danville, is a member of the I. O. O. F., and also of the Masonic fraternity. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Danville, pg. 141 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

Lemuel Amerman

AMERMAN, Lemuel, a Representative from Pennsylvania; born near Danville, Montour County, Pa., October 29, 1846; attended the common schools and Danville Academy; was graduated from Bucknell University, Lewisburg, Pa., in 1869; taught school three years; studied law; was admitted to the bar in 1873 and commenced practice in Philadelphia, Pa.; moved to Scranton, Pa., in 1876 and continued the practice of law; also engaged in banking; solicitor for Lackawanna County 1879 and 1880; member of the State house of representatives 1881-1884; elected city comptroller of Scranton in 1885 and 1886; reporter of the decisions of the supreme court of Pennsylvania in 1886 and 1887; elected as a Democrat to the Fifty-second Congress (March 4, 1891-March 3, 1893); unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1892 to the Fifty-third Congress; continued the practice of his profession in Scranton, Pa., until his death in Blossburg, Tioga County, Pa., October 7, 1897; interment in Forest Hill Cemetery, Scranton, Pa.

(Source: Biographical Directory of the United States Congress, 1771-Present; contributed by A. Newell)

FRANK C. ANGLE is a lawyer of much prominence in Montour County, but he is better known to the public as the proprietor and publisher of the Montour American, a weekly paper of high standing, and the Morning News, a daily containing the latest telegraphic news, abounding in items of local interest, and sensible and entertaining editorials which are well and carefully written and show the result of deep thought. Mr. Angle has been connected with the growth of Danville in many ways and has done more for the advancement of its interests than any other single individual in the same period. He is a native of Danville, having been born February 25, 1854, and is a son of William and Henrietta (Pursel) Angle. The grandfather of our subject was a leading agriculturist of Greenwood township, Columbia County, where he lived a long and useful life. William Angle, the father of our subject, was born in Greenwood township, Columbia County, and when a young man removed to Danville and established a general merchandise store opposite the Danville Public Library, which building has since been torn down. He was engaged in that business for over twenty years, and at the expiration of that period he had accumulated enough wealth to enable him to retire and spend his declining days in ease and comfort. He owned many valuable pieces of property in Danville and built a block of dwelling-houses on Church street. He served in the town council for several terms and was also a commissioner of water works. He was joined in hymeneal bonds to Henrietta Pursel, a daughter of William Pursel of Jersey Shore, Pa., and their happy union was blessed by the birth of the following children: Frank C, in whom the interest of this sketch centers; Lizzie H., the wife of J. E. Bruley of Syracuse, N. Y.; and William P., a well known dentist and business man of Danville. In political views William Angle faithfully supported the principles of the Republican party. He was liberal in his religious views. He closed his eyes in final sleep at the age of sixty-three years, and his worthy wife now resides in Danville. Frank C. Angle, after completing the required course in the common schools, attended Lehigh University from which he graduated with the class of 1876. He then took up the study of law with Thomas Galbreth, a learned lawyer of Danville, and was admitted to the Montour County Bar ra 1879, after which he formed a partnership with James Scarlet and began practice. Subsequently the partnership was dissolved and Mr. Angle has since been engaged in practice alone. He is a man of high principles, shrewd and energetic, and he makes the case of a client a personal matter, putting forth his greatest efforts. In debates he is cool and collected, presents the facts clearly and argues forcibly. He has not only been engaged in the work of his profession, but has been closely connected with many public enterprises, especially where the welfare of the borough of Danville has been concerned. He is a member of the board of water commissioners of Danville; manager of the Danville Opera House; and is proprietor of the Atlas Manufacturing Company which was established in 1875. He erected the building, in which he manufactures all kinds of wooden household novelties, and the company does an enormous business, also conducting a branch house in Williamsport. In 1878 our subject purchased the Montour American, which was founded December 11, 1855, by D. H. B. Brower, who was succeeded by Joel S. Bailey and Charles Cork in 1864. Mr. Brower again became the owner in 1871 and disposed of it to W. H. Bradley and Lewis Gordon. They conducted the paper for a few years, and were succeeded by Edward C. Baldy, William B. Baldy, and finally by Bennett & Frick, of whom our subject purchased the plant. Under his successful guidance it has prospered and become one of the best weekly papers in the county, having a circulation of 800 copies per week. In September, 1897, he established the Morning News, which has had an exceedingly rapid growth and has a circulation of 700 copies per day. Mr. Angle is a man of medium stature, of fine personal appearance, and by the pleasant and courteous manner which he manifests toward every one has become very popular and has made many friends throughout his section of the country. Mr. Angle and Sue Robison, a daughter of Theodore Robison of Easton, Pa., took the marriage vows and they are the proud parents of two sons, namely: Theodore and Frank Purcel. In religious views our subject is an Episcopalian, and a member of Christ Memorial Church, of which he is senior warden. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 196 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

CALEB APPLEMAN, retired farmer, Danville, was born in Columbia County, Penn., April 12, 1812, a son of Boltis and Mary Melick Appleman, natives of Pennsylvania and of German and Dutch descent. He is the sixth in a family of eight children and was educated in Bloomsburg. He came to Montour County in 1832, where he followed farming which he made financially successful, and retired in 1885, making his residence in Danville. His grandfather, Peter Melick, was a soldier in the Revolution and his father was a soldier in the war of 1812. In 1831 Caleb married Mary M., a daughter of Henry Rishel, of German origin, and ten children were born to them, viz.: Elmira, deceased wife of John Carr; Sally Ann, wife of Charles A. Rentz; Agnes, wife of James M. Van Devender; Mary E., wife of John C. Patterson, of Danville; Margaret J., wife of Hon. Jesse C. Amerman, a prominent farmer; Amos B.; Harriet, wife of Peter E. Rentz; Eli, a farmer; Caroline, wife of George Gilmore, and Franklin Pierce. Mrs. Appleman united with the Lutheran Church at Milton when she was about nineteen years old. Mr. Appleman is a member of the Episcopal Church. He was a member of the building committee when the Methodist Church in Valley Township, Montour County, was erected and was Sabbath-school superintendent there for ten years. He was school director for six years. He is a Democrat and served twenty-seven years as constable. His son Amos was in the civil war, a member of the One Hundred and Thirty-second Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Danville, pg. 142 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

GEORGE W. ASKINS, merchant, Danville, was born in Landisburg, Perry County, Penn., April 14, 1829, to Samuel (a shoemaker) and Susannah (Fitzcharles) Askins, natives also of Pennsylvania, and of Scotch-Irish descent, the former of whom died in Union County, Penn. Their family consisted of nine children, four of whom grew to adult age. Our subject, the eldest child, was reared and educated in his native county until sixteen years of age. He then went to Harrisburg where he learned the tinner's trade, serving a regular apprenticeship, and after completing his apprenticeship he obtained a situation at Selin's Grove, Snyder Co., Penn. There he worked at his trade and subsequently clerked in a general store until 1877, when he came Danville and superintended a stove and tinware store for the firm of Waterman & Beaver, where he was employed for seven years. At the expiration of that time he bought out the firm, and has since continued the business with marked success. He is now the owner of the store and business room, and also of a neat and substantial residence. He married in 1853, Elizabeth Monbeck, a lady of German origin, daughter of David Monbeck, a farmer of Union county, Penn. Mrs. Askins is the mother of seven children: Mary, wife of R. Pierce; William, in business with his father; Emma, at home; Charles; Harry, a tinner; Florence and Jessie. Mr. Askins is one of the commissioners of Montour County. He enlisted in the Eighty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, served one year and was discharged at the close of the war. He is a member of the G. A. R. of Danville; in politics a Republican. Mrs. Askins is a member of the Lutheran Church. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania Battle, 1887, Danville, pg. 142 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

PETER BALDY, SR., who was one of the most prominent men of Danville, was a son of Paul and Catherine (Beam) Baldy, and was born in Sunbury, Northumberland County, Pa. In 1814 he left the town of his nativity and located in Danville where he followed his trade, that of a blacksmith, for several years. He subsequently engaged in the general merchandise business, at which he was very successful and at which he continued the rest of his life. He was a public-spirited man and did much for the borough of Danville. He organized the first bank of Danville in 1848 and served as its president until his demise. He was a liberal supporter of the volunteer soldiers of Danville, especially of the Baldy Guards under Capt. Ramsey, and the Fencibles under Capt. Shreeve. He did considerable building in the village. He retired from active business duties some twenty years before his death, which occurred November 24, 1880. He was always deeply interested in religious works. When young he was an active member of the Lutheran Church, but in 1828, when Christ Episcopal Church was built, he became one of its first vestrymen. His son, Peter Baldy, Jr., was the first to be baptized in the church, and afterwards he became the organist. Peter, Sr., was one of the main supporters of the church and in 1844 presented it with a large bell. He bequeathed $5,000 for the support of the clergy of that church, $500 to the Sunday School, and $50,000 for a suitable memorial to himself and his beloved wife. His will was executed to the letter, and as a result one of the most beautiful churches in Eastern Pennsylvania was erected at Danville. His companion in life was Sarah Hurley, a daughter of Daniel and Martha Hurley, who passed to her eternal rest in November, 1875, in the eighty-fifth year of her age. They were the parents of the following children: Edward Hurley, Martha Hurley, Mary Catherine, Peter, Jr., Hurley, and Ellen Ann. Edward Hurley Baldy was a man of scholarly attainments and graduated from Princeton College before he was of age. He then took up the study of law with Josiah Comly, and was admitted to the bar at the age of twenty-two years. He then began to practice in the village of Danville, and was one of the most successful lawyers of the county. He was a shrewd and energetic man and was an eloquent orator. His reputation extended throughout the state and he acquired high standing in the foremost ranks of his profession. He was an enterprising man, and, like his father, took an active interest in the welfare of Danville. He succeeded his father as president of the Danville National Bank. In company with Charles Paxton he laid put a tract of land which is to-day within the corporate limits of the borough. He was attorney for all of the early manufacturing plants in the eastern part of the state. He accumulated a fortune. In 1872 he erected a handsome stone residence on West Market street, one of the finest in the town at that time. After living a long and useful life he was called to his final rest in 1891, at the age of seventy years. He was united in the bonds of wedlock to Mary Jennison, a daughter of William Jennison, who was for many years connected with the Pennsylvania Iron Works of Philadelphia, but finally located in Danville, residing on the site of the present Methodist Episcopal parsonage. Five children blessed this union, namely: Mary J. (Grove); Kate G. (Watson); Edward H., Jr., and Emily, deceased; and William Jennison, a well-known attorney and real estate dealer of Danville, who succeeded his father as president of the Danville National Bank. Mrs. Baldy died at the age of twenty-six years. Her husband formed a second matrimonial alliance with Henrietta C. Montgomery, who came from one of the early families of Pennsylvania. She is descended from one Robert Montgomery, who, with his wife Sarah, emigrated from Ireland at the age of thirty-two years and located on the present site of the city of Harrisburg, Pa., where he engaged in the cultivation of the soil. His son, John, was born in County Armagh, Ireland, and was but four years old when he came to America with his parents. He lived in the vicinity of Harrisburg all his life, and his death resulted from an accident in 1792, at the age of fifty-eight years. As a result of his union with Christina Foster he became the parent of a son, David, the grandfather of Mrs. Baldy. David Montgomery married Agnes Shaw, by whom he had the following children: Eliza; John G., the father of Mrs. Baldy; Margaret; William S.; David B.; Robert F.; Christina; Nancy; and Caroline B. John G. Montgomery was born on January 28, 1805, and after reaching maturity Studied law under the direction of Judge Cooper of Danville. He was a prominent lawyer of Danville and lived an active life until his demise, in 1857. His first marriage was with Deborah B. Kerr, a daughter of Jacob Kerr, and after her death he married Henrietta Cooper, a daughter of his former preceptor, Judge Cooper. This union resulted in the following issue: Agnes; Alice; Elizabeth; Henrietta C.; Margaret; John C.; and Caroline. Mrs. Baldy died in 1864, leaving five children: Sarah. Hurley, the wife of Dr. Irving H. Jennings, a record of whose life appears below; Dr. John Montgomery of Philadelphia, who is without doubt one of the best physicians of the state of Pennsylvania; Alice, who married a Mr. Hartman; Henry Waller; and Henrietta Cooper. Edward H. Baldy was again married, his third union being with Alice Montgomery, a sister of his second wife. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 701 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

WILLIAM B. BALDY, editor of the Montour American, Danville, was born in that place, August 5, 1853, a son of Charles C. and Mercy Jane (Bothwell) Baldy, whose ancestors were among the early German and Scotch settlers of Pennsylvania. His parents were born in that State, and his father was a carriage manufacturer in Danville in the early part of his life, but later carried on a hardware store in the same place. He was twice married and his family consisted of ten children, five of whom are now living. Our subject is the fifth child by the first wife. He attended the schools of Danville and Andalusia College, in Bucks County, Penn., and also Lehigh University, where he graduated in civil engineering, class of 1876. He then commenced to learn the printer's art in the office of the Montour American, and two years later bought one-half interest in the paper, the firm being Bradley & Baldy until April 1, 1883. Since that time Mr. Baldy has been editor and proprietor of the Montour American, which is Republican in political sentiment, and has a good circulation. He is chairman of the Republican county committee; is an active member of Friendship Fire Company of Danville, and has been its secretary for eight years; is a member of the R. A. of Danville, and is its Regent; is Past Noble Grand of the I. O. O. F., and also a member of the encampment; and captain of Company F, Twelfth Regiment Pennsylvania National Guards. In 1881 Mr. Baldy married Ida B., daughter of William Waters, and a native of Pennsylvania of German origin. They have one child, Isabella May. He and his wife are members of the Protestant Episcopal Church, of which he is a vestryman and tresaurer of the board, also Sunday-school superintendent. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Danville, pg. 142 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JACOB S. BALLIET, merchant, P. O. Limestoneville, is a grandson of John Balliet, a former resident of Lehigh County, who with his family came to this part of the country in 1807, settling in what is now Limestoneville, buying the stone house built by Robert Caldwell in 1800. This house is now owned by William Balliet, a brother of Jacob S., and is occupied by J. C., a son of William, and is yet in a good state of repair. When John Balliet came here he took up a large tract of land, which he afterward divided between his two children, John and Mary, the latter being the wife of Solomon Levan. This land is now divided into five farms. The wife of the elder John Balliet was Catharine Mickley; they had but the two children named, both of whom were born and married in Lehigh County. Both of the elder Balliets died about fifty years ago. The father of our subject, also named John, was born March 14, 1784, and died February 1, 1854. His wife was Elizabeth Schreiber, who was born September 7, 1782, and died March 25, 1858. John Balliet was always a farmer, never engaging in any other occupation. He had a large farm, and when comparatively a young man, gave up labor, his sons carrying on the farm. He removed from the old homestead to a house which he had built, and which is now occupied by Jacob S. In this house both he and his wife died. He was a leading man in the Paradise German Reformed Church, of which he had been both deacon and elder for many years. He had six sons and two daughters, all but one of whom are now living: Nancy, wife of Abraham Stroub, who died over twenty years ago; John living near McEwensville, Penn., now eighty years of age; Stephen, seventy-eight years old, living on part of the old homestead in Northumberland County; Levi, a merchant in Milton, Penn.; Josiah, in Lockport, N. Y.; William, in Limestoneville; Mary, widow of John Clapp, in Milton, and Jacob S., the youngest but one of the family. He was born October 24, 1824, at Limestoneville, Penn., in same house where he now resides, and lived with his father until his marriage, after which he farmed a part of the home farm which he got from the estate after his father's death, and has ever since resided on. He has always been a farmer, but in 1880 bought the interest of a nephew in the store in Limestoneville, and in 1883 bought the entire concern, and now owns it alone. January 16, 1855, he was married to Catharine Lewars, of Lewis Township, Northumberland Co., Penn. To this union five children have been born: Ella M., James L., A. Elwood, Edward F., and Harry, all living at home. Mr. Balliet has never been an office holder, but does his duty as a citizen at the polls. He and his wife and all his children are members of Paradise Church. In politics Mr. Balliet is independent. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Limestone Township pg. 204 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

WILLIAM BALLIET, retired, P. O. Limestoneville, Penn., is a brother of Jacob S. Balliet, of this township, under whose name above is given a sketch of their ancestors. He was born March 8, 1821, and lived at home until his marriage, when he farmed for his father until the latter's death; then he bought the home farm, and, until 1882, lived in the house where he was born and reared. October 10, 1845, he was married to Rebecca, daughter of John Hauge, who lived near Milton, Penn. They had eight children, two of whom died young. The survivors are Mary Elizabeth, born January 17, 1847, wife of William Royer, of Delaware Township, Northumberland County; John Calvin, born November 4, 1850, married to Frances Bilmeyer, and living on his father's farm in the old home; Emma Louisa, born August 19, 1852, wife of Charles A. Linebach, living in Milton; Alcesta, born April 20, 1855, wife of I. Albert Eschbauch; William J., born June 19, 1858, married to Elizabeth Shaffer, and Clarence F., born October 10, 1860, and married to Mary Riddles, all living in Northumberland County. Mr. Balliet has, until his retirement, always been a farmer. He has never held public office. He and his wife are members of Paradise Reformed Church. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Limestone Township pg. 205 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JOHN BENFIELD, farmer and lumberman, P. O. Danville, was born in Columbia County, Penn., February 5, 1832, a son of Thomas and Catherine (Wertman) Benfield, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German origin. His father was engaged in several branches of business, among which were distilling, boating, milling and lumbering, and was very successful. John is the second of three children, and spent his earlier years with his parents on the farm in Valley Township. Here he was educated, and has been engaged in business, being a farmer, miller, dealer in and manufacturer of lumber, and has met with success in his ventures. He is the owner of 600 acres of land in different farms in Montour County, and 400 acres of woodland in Columbia County. He also owns the Benfield flour-mill in Valley Township. In 1855 he married Catherine, daughter of Daniel and Sarah (Everett) Cromley, and of German descent. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Benfield are Catherine (wife of Robert Crosley, a farmer), Emma Jane, John Clark and Thomas H. Mrs. Benfield is a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Benfield is a Democrat, and was recently elected associate judge of Montour County. The judge is a prominent citizen of Valley Township.(History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle - 1887 Valley Township pg. 215 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JONATHAN P. BARE, justice of the peace, Danville, was born in Montgomery County, September 8, 1841, a son of Frederick and Susan (Place) Bare, natives of Pennsylvania and of German and French origin, respectively. In early life the father was a shoemaker, later a farmer, and died in 1849. Jonathan P. is the eldest son in a family of five children, and was reared by A. Henricks on a farm in Montgomery County until 1857, when he came to Montour County, which has since been his home, except the time he spent in the service of his country. He enlisted in 1861 in the artillery, One Hundred and Twelfth Regiment of the line, and was elected orderly sergeant of Company F, served three years and was in several battles. In 1864 he returned home and worked on the Catawissa Railroad, and subsequently farmed for a time. He again worked on the railroad as a bridge-builder until September 24, 1870, when he met with a sad accident which deprived him of both feet. Politically he is a Republican, and in 1879 was elected justice of the peace, which office he still holds, and is also treasurer of the board of directors of the poor of Danville and Mahoning Township. He is a member of the G. A. R. and of the I. O. O. F. also of the I. O. O. F. Encampment. His first wife died in 1867, and in 1870 he married his second wife, a lady of German origin, who has borne him three children: William A., Harry Clayton and Sarah Gertrude. Mr. and Mrs. Bare are members of the German Reformed Church. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Danville, pg. 143 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JESSE BEAVER, retired merchant, Danville, was born in Lebanon County, Penn., March 8, 1811, a son of Peter (a tanner and Methodist minister) and Elizabeth (Gilbert) Beaver, whose ancestors were among the early settlers of Pennsylvania. (For further ancestral history see sketch of Thomas Beaver.) They were the parents of twelve children, ten of whom attained adult age. Jesse, who is the fifth child, received his education in a log schoolhouse in Perry County, Penn. Early in life he learned the printers' trade, but never worked at it after completing his apprenticeship. He clerked two years in a store in Union County, where his father had moved in 1828, and then returned to Perry County, and engaged in keeping a general store until 1857. He then sold out and bought a store in Union County, where he continued the business until 1863. In that year he came to Danville and engaged for some years in the coal trade, after which he retired. In 1833 he married Mary Ann, daughter of Dr. Christian Swartz, a native of Pennsylvania and of Pennsylvania-Dutch descent. Their union was blessed with five sons and five daughters, all of whom are living and married, except one. Mr. and Mrs. BEAVER are members of the Methodist Church, of which he has been steward, trustee and class-leader. He has been a constant reader, and devotes much time to the study of the Scriptures, ancient and modern history, etc. In politics he was a Democrat until 1856, when he affiliated with the Republican party, to which he still adheres. He held several offices while a resident of Perry and Union Counties, such as school director and member of the town council, and served one term as auditor of Perry County. He was postmaster at Millerstown, and was appointed collector of toll for the Pennsylvania Canal Company, but on finding that he was usurping another man's place he refused to accept the position. Mr. Beaver then purchased a store, which he conducted until coming to Danville in 1863. He was elected associate judge of Perry County in 1851, and served five years; also served one term as representative. In 1862 he was appointed United States revenue collector of Union County, serving until he came to Danville, when he resigned and embarked in the coal and lumber business. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Danville, pg. 143 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JESSE L. BEAVER, superintendent of the Thomas Beaver Free Library of Danville, whose portrait appears on the opposite page, was born in Newport, Perry County, Pa., November 1, 1850, and is a son of Jesse and Mary Ann (Swartz) Beaver, and a grandson of Peter and Elizabeth (Gilbert) Beaver. Peter Beaver, the great-grandfather of our subject, was a native of Germany, and was the first of the Beaver family to locate in America, having settled in Lebanon County, Pa., in 1755. Rev. Peter Beaver, Jr., the grandfather of our subject, was born in Franklin County, Pa., December 25, 1782, was ordained in 1809 by Bishop Asbury of the Methodist Church at Elkton, Md., and served in the pulpit until his death, which occurred in 1849. He was united in marriage with Elizabeth Gilbert, who died in 1818. They were the parents of the following children: George; Samuel; Jacob; James A.; Jesse, the father of our subject; Thomas; Peter; Sarah; Eliza; Catherine; and Mary. Thomas Beaver, our subject's uncle, was born in Pfout's Valley, Perry County, Pa., November 16, 1814, and at the age of thirteen years began working on a farm at a salary of $2.50 per month; later he clerked in a store until 1833, when, in partnership with Peter Nevius, he began merchandising at Lewisburg, Pa. In 1835 he sold his interest in the store and worked for J. & T. Beaver of Millerstown, Pa. In 1857 he moved to Danville to take charge of the Montour Iron Works, of which he was a large stockholder. He was the owner of considerable property in Danville, including the Beaver Mansion, situated at the foot of Baldhead Mound, which is one of the most beautiful residences of Montour County, and is surrounded by a beautiful and well-kept lawn and shrubberies. In 1886 Mr. Beaver donated to the town of Danville, as a memorial to himself and wife, the handsome Library and Y. M. C. A. building at the corner of Market and Ferry streets, where the old Danville Hotel was situated. It is now known as the Thomas Beaver Free Library and Y. M. C. A., and was erected at a cost of $195,000, and the corner-stone was laid July 5, 1886. The building has forty-eight feet frontage on Market street and seventy-eight feet on Ferry street; it is built of Ohio gray-stone, with granite trimmings and Scotch granite columns. The first floor is laid with marble tiling, and on this floor are the ladies' and men's parlors and reading-rooms, superintendent's office and library proper, an open two-story room with six alcoves on each floor, and which is filled with 1,300 volumes of selected books. Miss Mollie Wentzel is librarian, a position she probably may hold as long as she chooses. On the second floor is the reception room, game room and the trustees' room; and on the third floor are the sewing and art rooms. The building is of hard-wood finish, heated throughout by steam heat, and lighted by gas. Mr. Beaver also left an endowment of $50,000 for the maintenance of this handsome library and Y. M. C. A. building. The officers are: Samuel A. York, president; W. M. Gearhart, secretary; B. R. Gearhart, treasurer; Miss Mollie Wentzel, librarian; and Jesse L. Beaver, superintendent. The trustees are: J. Sweisfort, William J. Baldy, W. E. Gosh, F. M. Harrington, W. E. Lunger, Lewis Rodenhoper, Capt. Joseph Johnson, Samuel Goldsmith, Frank Derr, John Pesper, and W. F. McCormick. Mr. Beaver also bequeathed $30,000 to the Dickinson College of Danville. Jesse Beaver, the father of our subject, was born March 8, 1811, and served an apprenticeship to the printer's trade during his boyhood clays, and later clerked in his father's store. He then opened a general store in Perry County, which he conducted until 1857, when he sold out and moved to Union County, where he conducted a like store. In 1863 he removed to Danville and successfully engaged in the coal business for many years, and then retired from the active duties of life. Mr. Beaver was an active politician, a shrewd business man, and was held in high esteem by his fellow-citizens. He owned a handsome double brick house on Market street, now the property of D. Bright, and resided there until his death, which occurred in 1891. In 1833 he was united in marriage with Mary Ann Swartz, a daughter of Dr. Christian Swartz, and she died in 1891, at the age of seventy-six years. They reared and educated the following children: Maggie, the wife of John Kramer; Theodore, a prominent attorney-at-law, residing at Niles, Mich.; Jennie, wife of William Gearhart; Charles, a resident of Jacksonville, Fla.; Marion, who is the wife of John Gaskins; Thomas, who resides at Harrisburg, Pa.; Clara; Jesse L., our subject; Emma, who wedded John Roate; and John, a prominent real estate man of Danville. Jesse L. Beaver, upon completing his education in the public schools, learned the trade of a tinner, which business he followed some seven years, and then engaged in agriculture with his brother Thomas. In 1886 he was appointed superintendent of the Thomas Beaver Free Library and Y. M. C. A., which position he has continued to hold up to the present time. He was joined in marriage with Anna Thomson, a daughter of Egbert Thomson, and they are the parents of five children: J. Belle, Laura, Mary, Josephine, and Sarah. In political affiliations Mr. Beaver is a stanch Republican and held the office of assessor of the First Ward of Danville, Pa. In religious belief Mrs. Beaver is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Danville. J. Belle, the oldest daughter of our subject, is a member of the Episcopal Church. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 539 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

THOMAS BEAVER came to Danville for his permanent home in 1857. To his hands, among others, had been entrusted the affairs of the Montour Iron and Steel Works, that had just previously suffered from the financial panic that at that time was passing over our country. Mr. Waterman, as co-trustee with Mr. Beaver, retained his residence in Philadelphia, hence the immediate responsibility rested mostly on Mr. Beaver. He soon had the entire works in successful operation, and in 1860 Messrs. Waterman and Beaver purchased the entire concern, which soon became one of the most extensive iron manufacturing plants in the country. In another chapter, to which the reader is referred, is some extent the account of Mr. Beaver's enterprise and business sagacity. Thomas Beaver was born November 16, 1814, in Pfouty's Valley (now in Perry County), Penn., a son of Rev. Peter and Elizabeth (Gilbert) Beaver. His ancestors on the paternal side emigrated from Germany about the beginning of 1741, and settled in Chester County, Penn. The family name of his grandmother Beaver was Keifer, of whom there are now residents in Franklin County, this state. This family immigrated to this country in 1755, and first settled in Lebanon County. The father of our subject, Rev. Peter Beaver, born December 25, 1782, in Franklin County, Penn., was ordained in 1809 at Elkton, Md., by Bishop Asbury, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was actively engaged in the ministry many years; he died in August, 1849. Thomas' mother died in 1818; she was Elizabeth (Gilbert) Beaver, the daughter of grandfather Gilbert, who was born in Germany, but was of English descent, his father having been a English soldier and one of Marlborough's men in the battle of Blenheim, and from that country immigrated to America. The Gilberts located in Lebanon County, where they resided many years, but later moved to Dauphin County. They are a large family and are farmers. The issue of the marriage of Rev. Peter and Elizabeth (Gilbert) Beaver is as follows: George, who married Catharine Long; Samuel, who married Maria Leman; Jacob, who married Ann Eliza Addams (one of whose children is a favorite son of Pennsylvania, Gen. James Addams Beaver, of Centre County, a gallant soldier and Christian gentleman); Jesse, who married Mary Ann Schwartz; Thomas, whose name heads this sketch; Peter, who married Eliza G. Siminton; Sarah, who married Aaron Nevius; Eliza;Catharine, who married Archibald Greenlee, and Mary, who married Henry Hiller, now of Lewisburg. Thomas Beaver's educational advantages were rather meagre. He never attended school after his thirteenth year, but as he possessed an indomitable will and innate intellectual force, his after success was none the less positive because of the lack of scholastic education in early youth. In April, 1827, he left the parental roof in search of his fortune, and for a number of months worked on a farm at $2.50 per month, and in the winter of that year entered the store of Beaver & Black (his brother Samuel and Judge Black), at Milford. The following spring the business was removed to Newport, Perry County, and there he continued one year. His father having in the meantime opened a store at New Berlin, Union County, Thomas put in a year's work there, and then returned to Newport to take charge of the business of Judge Black, who was a prominent politician and spent most of his time outside. Close application to business brought its frequent attendant, and illness compelled a climatic change, so through the friendly aid of Gen. Mitchell, chief of construction of the Pennsylvania Canal, on November 1, 1831, he went to Williamsport to fill an engagement in the general store of Rev. Jasper Bennett. His knowledge of goods and force of character were demonstrated at that early day, he being sent, when but eighteen years of age, to Philadelphia to purchase a stock of goods, making the tedious journey by stage-coach. In 1833 he formed a connection with Peter Nevius in general merchandising at Lewisburg, and remained until 1835, when he sold out his interest and a WILLIAM BIDDLE (deceased), for many years a prominent merchant and manufacturer, of Danville, was a man of more than ordinary intelligence and executive ability. He was born at White Hall, then in Columbia County, now in Montour, April 18, 1812. His parents, Gershom and Mary (Jennings) Biddle, had a family of six sons and four daughters, he being the youngest. They were charter members of the Old Derry Presbyterian Church, that was organized in 1798. Gershom Biddle was a prominent man of Derry Township, of Scotch-Irish descent; his ancestors were among the early pioneers of Pennsylvania, settling on a tract of land near Fishing creek, Northumberland County, surveyed on application to the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and purchased April 13, 1769. Mary (Jennings) Biddle, wife of Gershom, was a daughter of Hugh Jennings, who served in the Revolutionary war; he was of English descent; his ancestors settled in New Jersey near Morristown. William Biddle at the age of thirteen came to Danville, was employed as clerk by the late John Moore, merchant; subsequently became a partner; a few years later engaged with him and others in the foundry business. After many changes among the partners he became the owner of the Eagle Works, on Ferry Street, which for a number of years was one of the leading industries of Danville, and gave employment to over 100 men. Mr. Biddle always took an active interest in the welfare of those in his employ, and by his kindness and generosity gained their confidence and respect--a truly honest man. He was married twice; his first wife was Mary Jane Moore, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Donaldson) Moore; she died December 12, 1854, and was the mother of seven sons and two daughters, two sons living, viz.: Edward Moore Biddle, residing in Danville, and Walter Sterling Biddle, in Wilkesbarre, both married, each having one son, Edward Percy and Charles Hamrick. His second wife, Anne Alward Moore (sister of his former wife), he married December 6, 1860. The fruit of this union was three children: Grace Hunter, Harry Otis and Horace Moore, bookkeeping in the First National Bank, Danville. William Biddle was identified with Danville for sixty years, and died February 3, 1885, being one of the oldest citizens of Danville, and respected by all who knew him. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Danville, pg. 144 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JACKSON BIDDLE, farmer, P. O. White Hall, was born April 15, 1829, son of Jacob and Esther (Ritter) Biddle. Gershom Biddle, grandfather of our subject, came to this county from New Jersey, probably about 1780, and located near White Hall. He was the father of five children: Gershom, William, John, Jacob, and Jane, all of whom are dead. William, who was uncle of our subject, was an eminent citizen of Danville, and is mentioned elsewhere in this book. The family records show that several of the ancestors of this family took a prominent part during the Revolutionary war and war of 1812. Jacob Biddle, father of our subject, owned five large farms in this section, and was noted for his benevolence and public spirit, being greatly instrumental in the building of the Derry Presbyterian Church, the first church built in this part of the country. He married Esther Ritter, and they were the parents of fifteen children, seven of whom are living: Jackson; Henry, in White Hall, this county; Amos, in Kansas; Jacob, in California; James, in Anthony Township, this county, John, also in Anthony Township, and Mary, wife of Firman Farnsworth. Jackson Biddle, subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm where he now lives, and owns the old homestead of 125 acres, all under cultivation. This land was first improved by Israel Biddle, an uncle of his father. The homestead, where Jackson now resides, and the adjoining land owned by his brother James have been in the hands of the Biddle family since the earliest date of which there is any record. Our subject was first married March 22, 1860, to Miss Susan McKee, daughter of Robert McKee, one of the early settlers of the county. Mr. and Mrs. Biddle became the parents of three children: Cora, Jacob and Ella. Mr. Biddle married, the second time, September 18, 1886, Jane Smith, daughter of John Smith, of Columbia County, and niece of Creveling Smith, deceased, who was formerly a member of the State Legislature of Pennsylvania. Mr. Biddle has been connected with the schools of Anthony Township as director for twelve years. In politics he is a Democrat. The Biddle family were originally of Scotch descent on the father's side, but the mother of our subject came from Berks County, Penn., and her family were originally German. James Biddle, who in company with Amos Johnson owns a prosperous establishment for raising chickens adjoining our subject's land, has been one of the greatest travelers of the county, having visited Canada, Mexico, Central America, Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska and California; spent three years in the last named state. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle – 1887, pg. 180 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JOHN J. BIEBER, farmer, P. O. Pott's Grove, was born in the Muncy Valley, Lycoming Co., Penn., December 4, 1855, son of George and Charlotte (Shipman) Bieber. Nicholas Bieber, great-grandfather of our subject, came to America from Belgium, and located in Lycoming County, Penn. John Bieber, the grandfather, was also born in Belgium, and came with his father to Muncy Valley. George Bieber, father of John, Jr., was born in Wolf Township, Lycoming Co., Penn., and was married in Moreland Township, same county, to Miss Charlotte Shipman, a native of Lycoming County, and daughter of Jacob and Catharine (Brittain) Shipman, natives of New Jersey, the former now living in Lycoming County at the age of eighty-nine years, the oldest inhabitant in his township; latter deceased. Mr. and Mrs. George Bieber were the parents of seven children, of whom John J. is the fourth in order of age. Our subject spent his early life in Wolf Township, Lycoming County, from there removed to Muncy Creek Township, Lycoming County, and in 1884 came to his present location in this township. His mother's great-grandfather, John Malachi Shamp, a native of England, was stolen from his home in his boyhood. The subject of this sketch was married in this county, February 13, 1883, to Miss (illegible) L. Murray, daughter of William and Jane Murray. Mr. and Mrs. Bieber are parents of one child, Amy Shipman. Mr. Bieber is a member of the Lutheran Church, (illegible) Bieber of the Presbyterian Church. He has 120 acres of land being the old Murray farm. He taught school four terms in Lycoming County, and is now secretary of the school board of Liberty Township. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Liberty Township pg. 198 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ALEXANDER BILLMEYER, farmer and lumberman Washingtonville, Penn., is a grandson of Martin Billmeyer, who came to Liberty Township, this county, with his father, who took up a large tract of land on the Chillisquaque, on which he died. After his death the land was divided among his three sons, George, Martin and Andrew. They erected a saw-mill, on the creek (the first in the township), which is still in use and is known as the Billmeyer saw-mill. Martin died there about thirty-six years ago. His widow, nee Margaret Himmelrigh, died several years after. They were the parents of six sons and six daughters: Daniel, Martin, Jacob, Mary, Catherine and Fannie, all deceased; Peter, an ex-sheriff, now living in Bloomsburg, Columbia Co.; John residing in Liberty Township; A. Jackson, in the same township; Sarah, wife of John Gonger; Margaret, wife of George Wagner, both of Limestone Township, and Harriet, wife of A. J. Maus, of Valley Township. Jacob was the father of our subject, and lived in Liberty Township until a year or two before his death. He was born October 17, 1808, and died May 30, 1881. He had been all his life a farmer and lumberman. His wife, Eliza Hower, was born in Northampton County, August 16, 1814, and died February 5, 1873. They had seven children, all now living: Henry, in Liberty Township; Sarah, wife of Martin Blue, of this township; Mary, wife of B. F. Umstead, of Anthony; Margaret, wife of David Springer, of Liberty Township; Jacob H., of Anthony; Daniel, living in Talbot County, Md., and Alexander, the eldest. Our subject was born January 7, 1841, and remained at home until the age of twenty-six years. After his marriage, he and his brother, Henry, bought out their father and farmed and lumbered for eight years, paying off all the debts which their father had incurred. They then dissolved, Alexander buying the lumber business, and his brother taking the homestead. They acquired a large amount of land, which Alexander now occupies (about 400 acres home farm), and erected the fine residence now occupied by him in 1876. In 1865 he married Miss Angeline, daughter of Daniel Blue, of Muncy, Lycoming County. She was born October 12, 1845. To their union five children have been born as follows: Ella, born February 2, 1866; Alice, born August 13, 1867; Hiram, April 16, 1870; Mary, July 17, 1874, and Florence, January 20, 1879, all living with their parents. Mr. BILLMEYER is an energetic man of business, and at present is extensively engaged at lumbering, at White Oak, Talbot, Md., Elk County, Penn., and also on his farms in this county. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 193 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

HENRY BILLMEYER, farmer, P. O. Pott's Grove, Northumberland County, was born in Liberty Township, Montour Co., Penn., on the old homestead where he now resides, October 17, 1842, son of Jacob and Eliza (Hower) Billmeyer. He was married in 1869 to Miss Hannah, daughter of James and Sarah (Smith) Flora, and a native of Anthony Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Billmeyer are the parents of three children: Sarah Ann, James Henry and Carrie Ellen. The parents are members of the Oak Grove Lutheran Church. Mr. Billmeyer owns the home farm of 111 acres, and nearly 200 Alexander in the lumber business in 1874, and then was engaged in the same line for himself at Mooresburg and Limestoneville. They commenced in an old water saw-mill, and the business has always been successful. The lumber was sold to the Lehigh Valley Company. Mr. Billmeyer has put up fine improvements, and has one of the very finest barns in the county. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 199 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

P. C. BLECHER, a farmer, P. O. Grovania, was born in Cooper Township, this county, June 29, 1856, and is a son of Jackson and Mary A. (Foust) Blecher, natives of Montour County, Penn. His ancestors came from Berks County, Penn. Our subject was reared on a farm and remained under the paternal roof until 1876, until his marriage, when he moved to where he now lives. He cultivates 115 acres of land, all well improved. He was married July 1, 1876, to Alice Janett; they have two children: Mary A. and Viola. Mr. and Mrs. Blecher are members of the Reformed Church. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Cooper Township pg. 191 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

FRANK G. BLEE, farmer, Washingtonville, is a son of John Blee, who came from Ireland in 1879, when but twelve years old. He was born in 1783 and died in 1860, aged seventy-seven years. At Philadelphia he learned brickmaking, at which he subsequently worked in Norristown. Accumulating some money he bought land in Anthony Township, near the farm of Robert McKee. This he afterward sold and bought a property in Derry Township. Later he bought two other farms, and then the one where his son now resides, owing at one time four farms. By his first wife, Sarah McCord, he had ten children: Joseph, William, James, Robert, John, Joseph (second) and Sarah, all of whom are deceased; Mary, Margaret and Elizabeth are living in Illinois. His second wife was Hannah Gingles, whose mother was one of those who escaped at the Wyoming massacre. By this union Mr. Blee had five children: Sarah A., wife of Edward Morris of Washingtonville; Susan H., wife of John Butler of Danville; Savilla and Maria F. (twins) died in childhood, and Frank G. Our subject was born August 5, 1839, and when seventeen went to Illinois, where he remained until the spring of 1860. In 1861 he entered the army in the wagon train in the quartermaster's department, where he remained until the fall of 1862. August 9, of that year, he enlisted in the nine months' service in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-second Regiment, and participated in the battles of South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, seeing considerable service in a short time. He was mustered out at Harrisburg, May 24, 1863, and returned to the farm, which he rented while lumbering in North Carolina. In 1872 he took possession of the place and there has since resided. September 24, 1863, he married Louisa A., daughter of Daniel Butler of this township, and six children were born to them: Robert E., Winifred and Frank G. are now living at home, and Harry W., died in 1868, Sallie M., died December 20, 1885, and Lizzie died July 26, 1877. In 1878 Mr. Blee was elected county commissioner and re-elected in 1881 and 1884, running ahead of his ticket each time, sufficient indication of the estimation in which he is held by his fellow citizens. He is a man of force and much influence in the community. Politically he is a Democrat. Mrs. Blee died January 21, 1878. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887,pg. 193 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

HORACE C. BLUE, dealer in groceries, tobaccos, cigars, flour and feed, Danville, was born in that place October 13, 1857, a son of Samuel (a painter) and Abigail (Hullighen) Blue, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch and Irish origin. They had a family of six children, five of whom grew to adult age. Our subject, the youngest of the family, was educated in the schools of his native town. At the age of twelve he began clerking in a store, and at seventeen embarked in business for himself, keeping a flour and feed store. He has been very successful and is now one of the representative business men of Danville, having become such by his own exertions. He is a Democrat, and takes a lively interest in politics. In 1884, he married Miss Stella Scott Beaver, daughter of Thomas W. Beaver, and of English origin. They have one child, Isabel. Mrs. Blue is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Danville. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 145 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

SAMUEL BLUE, Potts' Grove, Northumberland County, was born in Liberty Township, Montour County, February 22, a son of Frederick and Elizabeth (Himulrich) Blue. Samuel Blue, grandfather of our subject, and an early settler in this community, went to the war of 1812, and died at Black Rock. After his death his widow married a Mr. Bondeman. Frederick Blue, father of our subject, was born in what is now Montour County, Pennsylvania, and was here reared; he married Elizabeth HIimulrich, born June 6, 1808, and they were the parents of the following named children: Samuel; martin, living near Washingtonville, Derry Township; George (deceased), and William (deceased). The father died February 24, 1870. He was a county treasurer and sheriff of Montour County. The mother died February 17, 1863. The subject of this sketch was reared in this township and made his home with his parents until his marriage, which occurred February 2, 1860, with Elizabeth, daughter of John and Elizabeth Wolf. She died March 14, 1862, at the age of twenty-seven years, eleven months, twenty-four days, and is buried in the Billmeyer graveyard. She left one child, Charles W., born March 29, 1861. Mr. Blue then married, December 21, 1865, Miss Clarinda Murray, by whom he had the following named children: Carrie May, Wilfred Murray, Frank Howard, George Herbert, Edgar and Jennie Belle. Mr. Blue is a member of the Presbyterian Church, as is also his wife and some of the family. He bought his present farm of 150 acres in 1871. He also has 160 acres of Northumberland County, over half being timber land. His farm and improvements have cost him $150 an acre. Mr. Blue was elected treasurer of Montour County in the fall of 1877, and served three years. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 199 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

CYRENUS BOMBOY, veterinary surgeon, P. O. Comly, was born in Rockland Township, Berks Co., Penn., January 21, 1817, son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Price) Bomboy, former of whom died in Berks County, and the latter in Newcastle, Penn. Our subject was married in Berks County, and there remained until 1837, when he came to Northumberland County, and after a residence of twenty years there, came to what is now Anthony Township, this county, and located where Jesse Hartman now resides, and in 1868 located where he now resides, purchasing at that time 226 acres of land. Here he has made his home since that time. He was married in September, 1837, to Miss Naomi Folk, a native of Berks County, Penn., daughter of Lewis and Elisabeth (Bomboy) Folk. Mr. and Mrs. Bomboy were the parents of several children, of whom nine are living: Mary Ann, wife of Simon Roan, in Northumberland County, Penn.; Daniel, married to Isabella Ellis, in Anthony Township, this county; Elizabeth, wife of John France, in Susquehanna County, Penn.; Eliza Ann, wife of George F. Varner, in Anthony Township, this county; Charles F., married to Dessie Sailor, also in Anthony Township; Levina, wife of Daniel Frye, in Lycoming County, Penn.; Katharine, wife of A. J. Runyon, in Northumberland County, Penn.; John, married to Ellen Robbins, in Anthony Township, this county; Susan Matilda, at home; Franklin, Benjamin, Emma and an infant are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Bomboy are members of the German Reformed Church at Turbotville, Northumberland Co., Penn. Mr. Bomboy has been a member of the Reformed Church for over half a century, and he was one of the leaders in building the Turbot Church, was one of its first deacons, and is now a trustee of the church. He has held the office of constable for twenty-two years in Anthony Township. Mr. Bomboy has been for forty-nine years a veterinary surgeon, operating in Columbia, Northumberland, Lycoming and Montour Counties, and is often called to remote distances in different cases. Mr. Bomboy has altogether 282 acres of land. In politics he has been a Democrat all his life. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle - 1887 Anthony Township pg. 181 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

DANIEL BOMBOY, farmer, P. O. Exchange, was born in Delaware Township, Northumberland Co., Penn., October 21, 1840; son of Cyrenus and Emma (Fulk) [sic] Bomboy. Our subject removed with his parents to Montour County in 1860, and located near Exchange, Anthony Township, and has since resided here, with exception of the time he was in the army. He, being drafted, entered into the service of the Union army October, 1862, being mustered into the service at Danville in Company G, One Hundred and Seventy-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and was assigned to the Fourth Army Corps. He was in engagements at Williamsburg, White House Landing and Richmond. He returned home from the service in 1863. He was married in Lycoming County, September 29, 1864, to Miss Isabella, daughter of Stephen Ellis, Sr., and Sarah (Bull) Ellis, former of whom resides at Exchange. Isabella was born February 15, 1841. Her father was born in this State May 1, 1807; her mother was born July 12, 1816, this State, and her grandfather, Stephen Ellis, was born in Ireland, and from there came to America, locating in Montour County, and lived here until his death, which occurred in 1845. His wife's maiden name was Eleanor Cunningham; they are buried at Exchange in the Episcopal graveyard. His father was a sea captain, and when he retired from sea life took up land near Baltimore, and finally went back to Donegal, Ireland, and there died. John Bull was born February 2, 1770; came from Derbyshire, England; died in 1855. His wife, Eleanor, came from Norfolk, England, to America, when she was twelve years of age; she died in 1862. Mr. and Mrs. Bomboy are the parents of one child, Sarah Catherine. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Bomboy resided in Exchange two years, and then removed to the saw-mill one year, and then removed to Exchange, where they resided until 1880, since which time he has resided on his present farm, where he now has sixty-seven acres. He was in the tannery at Exchange for fourteen years. Mrs. Bomboy is a member of the Protestant Episcopal denomination, Mr. Bomboy of the German Reformed. In politics he is a Democrat. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle – 1887, pg. 181 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

DANIEL MONTGOMERY BOYD was born in Rush Township, Northumberland Co., Penn., within two miles of Danville on the "homestead farm." He is the son of John C. and Hannah M. Boyd. The former was a native of Chester County, Penn., and a son of Gen. John Boyd. He was a large owner of real estate, a prominent and active business man, and foremost in all the public enterprises of his day. His mother was a native of Danville, and daughter of Gen. Daniel Montgomery; both parents were of Scotch-Irish descent. Daniel Montgomery is the second in a family of eight children, seven of whom grew to maturity and attained prominence in business and social life of their native place. D. Montgomery Boyd acquired his education principally at the "Danville Academy," an institution founded and sustained largely by the liberality of Gen. William Montgomery (one of his ancestors) and which held a prominent position in the educational institutions of its day, being thoroughly equipped and conducted by the best teachers. After completing his education and spending a year or two at his home in the country, he went with his father and family to Pottsville, Penn., where he, for a short time, engaged in the purchase and sale of coal. Soon after he became identified with the development of the Shamokin coal basin, in opening mines and building railroads. Becoming interested personally in coal lands, he with a partner opened one of the finest veins of coal and built one of the first improved coal breakers in that country; afterward became interested in mining and selling the same. In 1862 he was induced to go to Havre-de-Grace, Md., for the purpose of selling and shipping coal by vessel south, but later extended his operations with others to shipment of coal to points south and west. He remained here until 1881, when ill health forced him to retire from active business. He returned to Danville, where he became interested in the leading enterprises of the place, being president of the First National Bank, Danville, Penn., president of the board of trustees of the State Insane Hospital, president of the Nail Manufacturing Company, and other interests. He has always been willing to assist with his labor, influence and money, every public enterprise of Danville, and is one of the few who enjoy the fruits of his labor. He married in 1869, Miss Caroline A. Bockins, of Germantown, Penn., who died in 1876. His second marriage took place in 1878, with Miss Ida Cottrell, of Columbia, Penn., who has borne him two children: Daniel Montgomery (deceased) and Elsie M. Mr. Boyd and family are members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is a trustee. His politics are Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 145 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
DANIEL MONTGOMERY BOYD, president of the First National Bank and a gentleman closely identified with many industries of Danville, Montour County, Pa., whose portrait appears on the opposite page, is now retired from active business, owing to ill health, and resides with his family in his handsome home, No. 5 Bloom street. The Boyd family for many years past has been connected with all of the important business projects in the vicinity of Danville and is accredited with having done much toward elevating the borough to its present standing among the industrial communities in Pennsylvania. The annals of history accord the family due credit for establishing one of the first railroads in that section, thus making possible communication with other markets and indirectly promoting all business enterprises. Our subject is recognized the county over as a man of sterling worth to the community and his friends are without number. He is a son of John C. and Hannah (Montgomery) Boyd, and was born in Rush township, Northumberland County, Pa., April 23, 1826. The family was established in this country by our subject's great-grandfather, William Boyd, who with his brother, Thomas, left his native home at Armagh, Ireland, and came to the United States in 1732. He was of Scotch-Irish parentage and was an adherent to the faith of the Protestants. He settled near the Half-Way House in New Garden township, Chester County, Pa., and on March 26, 1773, was appointed justice of the peace under King George and served in that capacity during the remainder of his life. He was also a member of the provincial council and his name appeared for the last time upon the records in 1761. He was a faithful member and officer of the Presbyterian Church at Fagg's Manor, Chester County. Late in life he moved to the village of Oxford where he resided until his death in 1767. He reared the following children: James; John; William; Jane; Mary; and Hannah. John Boyd, the grandfather of our subject, served an apprenticeship to the tanner's trade, but upon the breaking out of the Revolutionary War he enlisted in the army and served until he received his honorable discharge in 1782, proving himself a man of valor and one in whom his country could place dependence. He was subsequently appointed general of the First Brigade, Third Division, of the Pennsylvania State Militia by the governor of the state. After his marriage on December 18, 1782, he established a tannery at West Fallowfield, Chester County, Pa., which he conducted with much success. He served in the legislature many years. He was a ruling elder in the Presbyterian Church at Fagg's Manor for a period of twenty years. He married Mary Cowan, a daughter of James Cowan of Octoraro, Chester County, and they reared the following children: Jane; Joseph; William; James; John C.; Mary; Hannah; and Eliza. John C. Boyd, father of the subject of this biography, was joined in marriage, on May 18, 1820, with Hannah Montgomery, a daughter of Gen. Daniel Montgomery, after whom the borough of Danville was named. He then settled in Danville and conducted a store, where his wife's father had previously lived, until 1824 when he sold out and removed to what is now known as the Boyd farm, a gift to Mrs. Boyd from her father at the time of her marriage. There he erected a large mansion and continually added to the land until he possessed a farm of nine hundred acres, nearly all of which was under cultivation. Ably supported by his sons and Gen. Montgomery, Mr. Boyd planned many projects to promote the interests of the town and aid in its growth, the most important of these being for the construction of the Danville & Pottsville Railroad. It was he who first conceived the idea of using wooden rails. It is not to be imagined however that he did not encounter many difficulties in this enterprise, but with renewed energy and characteristic good judgment he finally obtained the desired results. He also built a furnace on a tract of land at Shamokin, Northumberland County, and this he operated with good success.* He was a man of irreproachable character, dignified, and at all times courteous, and there were few who could boast of more friends or who were accorded a higher degree of confidence by their fellow citizens. His useful life was terminated August 18, 1849, at the age of fifty-six years, as the result of an attack of dysentery. Mr. Boyd and his wife became the proud parents of seven children: Mary L., the wife of William Neal, proprietor of the Neal Furnace of Bloomsburg; Daniel Montgomery, the subject of this biographical record; H. Eliza, deceased; James, who married Louise Yeomans, a daughter of Rev. J. W. Yeomans; J. Alexander, who married a Miss Titus and resides in Philadelphia; Christianna, the wife of Col. William McClure; and Joseph C., who married Anna Butler, a daughter of William Butler of Danville. Daniel Montgomery Boyd received a good education in the Danville Academy and shortly after leaving school he became a coal dealer at Pottsville, Pa., and also engaged in opening and developing mines in the Shamokin Coal Basin. He and his partner in business were among the first to introduce the improved coal-breakers in that section. In 1862 he went to Havre-de-Grace and conducted business under the name of Hilles, Boyd & Company, selling coal and shipping it by vessel to various points in the South and West; as this proved a very remunerative occupation he continued it until 1881 when he was obliged to relinquish it owing to ill health. Our subject lived in retirement for some time in Danville, but as soon as his health permitted he associated in many important business ventures. He became president of the First National Bank of Danville, president of the Danville frail Manufacturing Company, and is a liberal supporter financially of all worthy enterprises. He was also president of the board of trustees of the State Hospital for the Insane, but recently resigned that office. He continued to improve in health until the winter of 1897-98, when he took to his bed, owing to an attack of la grippe which left him in a very weak condition. Mr. Boyd has twice married, his first wife being Caroline A. Bockius, a daughter of Samuel Bockius of Germantown, Pa., to whom he was united in 1869. After her death in 1876 he formed a second matrimonial alliance with Ida Cottrell, a daughter of Joseph W. and Esther A. (Sloan) Cottrell, he being a prosperous hardware merchant of Columbia, Pa. This union resulted in the birth of two children: Daniel Montgomery, deceased; and Elsie M. Mr. Boyd and his family are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is a trustee. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 93 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JAMES BRANNEN, farmer, P. O. Exchange, was born in County Meath, Ireland, in 1803, son of John and Julia (McGurie) Brannen, both of whom died in that country. On arriving at the age of eighteen years, our subject took a sailing vessel from Liverpool for New York, where he arrived after a passage of eight weeks and three days. He had $7.50 when he landed, and not a friend, relative or acquaintance on the continent. He came directly to Pennsylvania, and obtained employment on the canal at Nanticoke Falls, for the firm of Barnum & Brown, by which he was employed one year. From Nanticoke he went to Pottsville, and was employed on the construction of the Schuylkill Railroad. He was at Port Clinton when the engine used in the construction of this road arrived there, hauled by six horses from Philadelphia, and he was put on to fire this engine, thus has the honor of having been the first fireman on the first engine used in Pennsylvania. He was thus employed one year, and then went to work on the repairs of the railroad as section boss on three miles of the road. He next bought a canal boat and was for two years engaged in the coal-carrying trade from Port Clinton to Philadelphia, his boat being hired out, and he himself employed by the company. After two years he ran his won boat for two years more, and then bought another boat, and for twenty-one years he was in the carrying trade with them on the canal, he being one of the first to take a boat to New York. After leaving the canal he came to Anthony Township, this county, and bought 268 acres of land from the GLEN property. To this he has added from time to time until he now has four farms, comprising about 700 acres, besides other property, and is the largest land-holding farmer in this township. His sons are farming his property for him. Our subject was married at Port Carbon in 1834, to Miss Hanorah Meehan, a native of Tipperary, Ireland, born December 25, 1808, and daughter of Patrick Meehan. She died October 4, 1867, and is buried in the Catholic cemetery at Danville. Mr. and Mrs. Brannen were the parents of eight children; Judith (deceased); Mary (deceased); Catharine (deceased); John, who farms one of his father's places; William, who also farms one of his father's places; Hannah; James L., and Patrick Francis. Mr. Brannen and family are members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Brannen has held the office of overseer of the poor for eight years. In politics he is a Democrat. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887 Anthony Township pg. 182 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JAMES L. BRANNEN, late county treasurer, Exchange, was born in Anthony Township, Montour Co., Penn., July 22, 1855, son of James and Hanorah Brannen, and was reared to the age of twenty-three years on the farm. He married, at Milton, Penn., March 25, 1879, Miss Hannah M. Smith, daughter of Jonas and Mary (Bitler) Smith; she was born in Anthony township, this county, and her parents are now residents of Hazleton, Barber Co., Kas., where her father is a cattle dealer and farmer. Mr. Brannen commenced his education in the common schools of the township, and from there went to the academy at Tourbotville, Penn., and from that institution progressed to the State normal at Bloomsburg, where he attended thirty-two weeks. After that he taught in the public schools of Anthony Township two terms, and from there went to Binghamton, N. Y., to attend Lowell Business College, from which institution he graduated May 23, 1878. While there he studied telegraphy and took a complete commercial course. He then returned to Montour County, and going to Danville in 1879 commenced hotel-keeping, conducting the "Hudson River House" for four years. While there, in 1882, he was appointed chairman of the Democratic committee and held that position one year. In 1883 he came before the people as a candidate for the nomination for county treasurer, and at the convention received every vote cast. At the election he received a majority of 777, he and Dr. Simonson receiving the largest majorities at that election. He commenced hotel-keeping at Exchange in February, 1886. This hotel first opened as the "Columbia Exchange," by Joseph Levers, and he conducted it something over a year. It was never conducted as a hotel until it was again re-opened by Mr. Brannen. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887 Anthony Township pg. 182 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

DENNIS BRIGHT, a retired hardware merchant, resides in a handsome home at No. 132 West Market street, in the borough of Danville, Montour County, Pa. The record of his life reveals unusual activity, and the height of the success which he has attained reflects great credit on his general business ability. Although at present he is not actively engaged in business, he is largely interested financially in a number of enterprises. He is a son of Peter and Mary (Evans) Bright, and was born in Valley township, Montour County, then Columbia County, Pa., March 22, 1839. The family is of French and German extraction and was established in this country by Michael Bright, who was born in Christianstadt, Germany, May 6, 1706, and was a son of John Bright. Coming to America in October, 1726, at the age of twenty years, when the province of Pennsylvania consisted of three counties, namely: Philadelphia, Bucks, and Chester, he located in Chester County. In 1728 he located at Schaefferstown, Chester County, one of the oldest towns in the state, and there he became an extensive land-owner. He was united in marriage with Margaret Simon, a daughter of Jacob Simon, and their union resulted in the following issue: Jacob, born April 13, 1729; George, born in June, 1731; Michael, born November 24, 1732; Catherine, born April 6, 1834; John, born January 20, 1736; Peter, born May 13, 1738; David, born August 9, 1740; Maria, born August 1, 1742; Sally, born June 7, 1745; and Christian, born April 6, 1747. Michael Bright, the great-grandfather of our subject, was a saddler by trade, and at an early day located in Reading, Berks County, where he kept one of the first hotels and was a very large landowner. In 1760 he built a residence at the corner of Fifth and Washington streets, and there lived until his death, in 1814. His first marriage was with Sarah Stoner, by whom he had two children: Michael and Jacob. His second union was with Mrs. Catherine Brower, and their union was blessed with four children: Sarah, born November 11, 1769; and David, the grandfather of our subject, Peter and John, who died in infancy. David Bright was born in Reading, August 5, 1771, and took to agricultural pursuits upon reaching manhood. He also followed teaming and also did considerable building in and about that city, being one of its most enterprising citizens. On January 27, 1793, he married Catherine Hottenstien, who died at the age of eighty years, and they became the parents of the following children: Sally, who was born December 25, 1793, and married M. Yeager; Michael, born August 16, 1795; Abbie, born January 1, 1797, married George Fisler; William, born September 2, 1798, married Susan Lora; Catherine, born February 19, 1800, was the wife of John Green; John, born December 5, 1803; David, born December 25, 1808; Aaron, born July 8, 1809, married Maria Miller; and Francis, born September 1, 1812. Peter Bright, the father of our subject, was born November 21, 1801, and early in life moved to Valley township, Montour County, and purchased the farm which our subject now owns. There he carried on general farming and became one of the first men of that section. He erected new buildings on the property and made many other improvements, opening up a limestone quarry, from which he supplied limestone to the Danville furnaces. He also burned lime to a great extent, and was a very energetic business man, accumulating a handsome competency. He died at the age of eighty-one years. In December, 1827, he was joined in Hymen's bonds with Mary Evans, a daughter of Philip and Ann Elizabeth (Van Reed) Evans, and the following children were born to them: Rebecca, who married Emanuel Seidler; Abner, and David, who died at an early age; Hiram, who married Rhoda A. Butler; Evans, deceased; Dennis, the gentleman whose name heads these lines; Albert, deceased; Penina, of Danville; Philip, deceased; Abbie, the wife of William Achenback; and Mary, deceased. Dennis Bright obtained his primary education in the district schools, after which he walked three miles daily, that being the distance from his father's farm to Danville, in order that he might further his education by a course of study in the Danville Academy. He then entered the Greenwood Seminary, where he remained for two years; following this he became a student in the Pittsburg Commercial College, where he received a business education. Returning home, he assisted his father in the labors about the farm until 1861, when he removed to Lafayette, Warren County, Ind., which was the home of one of his brothers. Upon the commencement of hostilities in the Civil War our subject determined to enter the service, and on April 20, 1861, he enlisted as a private in the 15th Reg., Ind. Vol. Inf., for three months. The regiment was held in Indianapolis by Gov. Morton until the expiration of that term, but when the call for three-years' men was made he re-enlisted on June 14, 1861, as first sergeant of Company A, of the same regiment. The regiment's first engagement was at Rich Mountain, W. Va., where, having put the Rebels to rout, the regiment was given orders to pursue them in their retreat. At Elkwater the rapidly retreating Confederates turned and made a bold stand, and in the engagement which followed our subject was wounded by a musket ball passing through his ankle, disabling him to such an extent that he was prevented from active service until the following spring. He was then ordered to his regiment and was promoted to a captaincy on the staff of Brig.-Gen. George D. Wagner, his brigade having been transferred from West Virginia to the army of Gen. Buell in Kentucky for the investment of Forts Henry and Donelson. Having figured in the capture of these two important points, the brigade joined the army of Gen. Grant in Tennessee, and at the battle of Pittsburg Landing Capt. Bright received an injury in his wounded ankle and was incapacitated for further active duty. He was detailed to garrison and provost duty, and after a service of two years was honorably discharged. He immediately thereafter received an appointment as an assessor of internal revenue. He was subsequently appointed lieutenant-colonel of the 8th Division of the National Guard of Pennsylvania. He located in Danville, where, in company with Col. Charles Eckerman, he purchased the plant now known as the Atlantic Oil Refining Company, which was established by John Heller and Charles Shultz. From the crude oil they refined illuminating oil and lubricating oil in large quantities and did a very extensive business. In 1872 they disposed of the business to Bailey & Welsch. Our subject, having heard nothing for some years of his brother Philip, who had gone to California, crossed the continent to search for him and found that he had been robbed and murdered. Returning one year later he bought the hardware establishment of Van Allen & Company in the Opera House block in Danville, and carried on this business with characteristic ability for a period of fifteen years. He then sold the business to E. J. Moore, and has since lived a retired life, with the exception of carrying on farming on the old family estate in Valley township, which lie still owns. He also continues to conduct his limestone quarries. He is the owner of considerable property and has a winter home and orange grove in Marion County, Fla., where he spends the winter months, which are so cold and disagreeable in the Northern States. His home in Danville was built by Thomas Beaver; it is a fine brick residence and commands an excellent view of the Susquehanna River and beautiful mountain scenery. In 1872 Mr. Bright married Lucy Reay, a daughter of John Reay. She is a lady of excellent qualities, is kind and charitable, and has proven a worthy companion and a loving wife. She is of English birth, but was reared and educated in California. Our subject is a Republican in his political affiliations, and the manner in which he is esteemed by his fellow-citizens was shown when he was elected to the Legislature in 1872, being the first of his party to represent the district in that body. A kind husband and a true friend, our subject is well thought of by every one. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 640 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
HON. DENNIS BRIGHT was born at the homestead in Valley Township, Montour (then Columbia) Co., Penn., March 22, 1839, the third child of Peter and Mary Bright that grew to the age of maturity. His father, Peter Bright, was born in Reading in 1801; his father, David Bright, was born in Reading in 1771; his father Michael Bright, was born in Lebanon county, and his grandfather, Michael Bright immigrated to this country from the Palatinate in 1756; being of French or German origin. At that time there were but three counties in the province of Pennsylvania--Philadelphia, Bucks and Chester. Schaefferstown was in Chester County, and one of the oldest towns in the State, and the elder Bright settled there when but twenty years of age. Our subject received an academic education, graduating from Pittsburgh Commercial College in 1856; he worked on his father's farm until the spring of 1861. He was in Indiana at the breaking out of the Rebellion, and on April 20, 1861, enlisted under the call for three months men: many more enlisted, however, than were needed to fill the Indiana quota, and his regiment was one of the number left out; they were, however, held in Indianapolis by Gov. Morton, in expectation of another call, and when the call for three years' men came, he was mustered into the United States service June 14, 1861, as first sergeant of Company A, Fifteenth Regiment Indiana Volunteers. The regiment, being already equipped and drilled, was immediately sent to the front, and took part in one of the first engagements of the war, fought at Rich Mountain, W. Va. After the retreat of the rebels the regiment was ordered in pursuit, and at a stand made by them at Elk Water, he was wounded by a musket-ball passing through his ankle, this preventing his doing active duty until the following spring, when he was ordered to join his command, with rank of captain, to serve on staff of Brig. Gen. George D. Wagner, having been successively promoted from first sergeant. His brigade had been transferred from Virginia to Kentucky to join the army of Gen. Buell, for the investment of Fort Henry and Fort Donelson. After participating in the capture of these forts the brigade joined the army of Gen. Grant, in Tennessee, and at the battle of Pittsburg Landing, Mr. Bright received injuries to his wounded ankle which incapacitated him from further active service; he was detailed on garrison and provost duty, and after having served for two years, was discharged. After his return from the army he was appointed by the Government an assessor of internal revenue, and by Gov. Geary was appointed lieutenant-colonel Eighth Division National Guard of Pennsylvania. He has resided in Danville since the war, engaged in various vocations and is now in the hardware trade. In 1872 he represented this county in the State Legislature, being the first Republican holding that office from Montour County. He was married in 1872 to Lucy M. Reay. She was a native of England and a resident of San Francisco, to which place she removed with her relatives in childhood. Mr. Bright's maternal ancestors were of Welsh origin, and settlers in Chester County, Penn., in 1730. Mr. and Mrs. Bright have no children. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 145 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ANDREW BRITTAIN, farmer, P. O. Washingtonville, was born in Derry Township, this county, five miles from his present residence, September 4, 1804. His parents were Samuel and Sarah Brittain, of whom mention is made in the sketch of Nathaniel Brittain. Our subject lived with his father until his marriage, when he moved to his present residence, which at that time was owned by his father; later our subject bought it from the estate and has since owned it. March 26, 1835, he married Mary, daughter of Andrew Sheep. Mrs. Brittain was born October 14, 1808, on the place where she has always lived, and which was formerly owned by her father. To their union three children have been born: James Barber, born March 15, 1836, died October 5, 1857; Elizabeth Ann, born August 11, 1837, resides with her parents, and Sarah E., born November 22, 1839, wife of William B. Low, of Anthony Township. Mr. Brittain has always been a farmer and has held several township offices. He and wife and family are members of the Presbyterian Church, of which for nearly thirty years he has been an elder. He has always been a hard-working industrious man, and has the respect of the people among whom his life has been passed, and is now one of the oldest residents of the township. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 194 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

NATHANIEL BRITTAIN, retired farmer, P. O. Danville, was born February 15, 1807, in the cabin which stood near his present home. His grandfather, Nathaniel Brittain was a native of Northampton County, where he died in 1817; was a soldier in the Revolution and served in the war against the Indians on the frontier. His son, Samuel, subject's father was born and reared in Northampton County, and immediately after his marriage, in 1796, came with his young wife to what was then the wilderness of Northumberland County, settled on the place now occupied by his son and built a log cabin. He was always a farmer, and cleared the tract of 300 acres which he had bought on what was known as the Montgomery Patent. He was born February 28, 1770, and died May 19, 1841, aged seventy-one years. His wife, Sarah Silliman, was born in Northampton County August 19, 1773, and died September 3, 1845. Their children were Jane, who died in 1863; Isaiah, died also in 1863, leaving four children; Samuel, who died in 1818, aged sixteen years; Andrew, residing in this township; Sarah died in 1846, and Nathaniel. Our subject has resided all his life, except seven years, on his present place, where he was born. Until his twenty-fourth year he worked on his father's farm, helping to clear and cultivate it. Then, in partnership with his brother, Andrew, he bought a farm in this township, to which they removed and resided seven years. His father dying, our subject returned home and cultivated the farm for his mother for three years, and on her death bought the farm on which he has since lived. About fourteen years ago he retired, and was never engaged in any occupation except farming. May 25, 1854, he married Rebecca, daughter of Andrew Sheep, who was a carpenter by trade and also owned a farm in this township. She was born April 8, 1813. They have no children, but have adopted Theresa, daughter of William Dildine of Columbia County, who is now the wife of Eli Appleman, and with her husband lives on her adopted father's farm. Mr. Brittain has served as administrator of six estates, thus showing the confidence in which he is held by the community. He has held all the important offices in the township, and was once elected justice of the peace, but refused to accept. For nine years he was a lieutenant in the old State militia, and in every station of life has discharged his duties with fidelity and honesty. To-day, one of the oldest men in the township, with all his faculties unimpaired, he is a good specimen of a self-made man, and his standing in the community is excelled by none. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 194 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

G. B. BROWN, merchant, Danville, was born in Columbia (now Montour) County, Penn., September 13, 1816, a son of Samuel and Dorothy (Neice) Brown, natives, respectively of England and Holland. The father was brought to America when a small child, by his parents, who settled in Columbia (now Montour) County in 1736. Subject's father and grandfather were both farmers, and both died in Columbia County, Penn. The grandparent was a prominent man, and served as magistrate many years, and in those early times a magistrate was a man of no small amount of authority. George B. is the eighth of nine children (all of whom grew to maturity), and was nine years of age when his father died. He remained with his mother on the farm until he was fourteen, meanwhile attending the district school, and then worked out on the farm until he was seventeen years old. He then clerked in a store in Mifflinville, Columbia County, until 1834. In that year he came to Danville and clerked for two years in a dry goods store, and later purchased the store of S. M. Bowman & Co., and conducted it four years, when he was sold out by the sheriff. His failure seems to have given him renewed energy, for he embarked in everything in which he could see an honest dollar, and at one time was operating nine different enterprises in Danville. In this way he paid off all back debts. the man who, in order to show a clear record and enjoy a peaceful conscience, will honor claims for which he is no longer legally responsible, must surely be an "honest man." He first opened a boarding house, to which he later added livery business; then studied dentistry, opened an office and practiced with success, and was among the most active business men of Danville. In 1856 he established his present business, dealing in books, stationery, artists' supplies, etc., and to him belongs the honor of circulating the first daily newspaper in Danville, a branch of his business which has steadily expanded. In 1837 he married Sarah A., daughter of John Gearhart, and of German origin. Four children have been born to them: Benton, Melissa D., John G. and Will G. Mr. and Mrs. Brown are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of the building committee, of which he was a member. He is Republican in politics; has served twenty-one years as treasurer of the school board of Danville, and has been a member of the town council and burgess one term. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 146 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JOSEPH BRYANT, Danville, weigh-master for the Montour Iron & Steel Company, also farmer in Valley Township, Montour Co., Penn., was born May 6, 1833, son of Samuel and Hannah (Sperring) Bryant, natives of England. Samuel Bryant was a miner; he went from England to Wales, and in 1837 came to Pottsville, Penn., where he worked in the iron ore mines. Our subject attended school in Danville, Penn., and early in life was apprenticed to learn the puddler's trade in the rolling-mill in Danville, which occupation he followed until the breaking out of the Rebellion in 1861, when he enlisted in the Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, in Company E, and was discharged in 1862 for disability. After returning home and regaining his health, he accepted his present position, and has since devoted most of his time to it. He was married, in 1856, to Lydia, daughter of Jacob Roup; she was born in Pennsylvania, and of German origin. They have five children now living: Charles M. (a miner), Henrietta, Alice, Martha, Sarah J. (deceased). In politics Mr. BRYANT is a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 215 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)