Montour County, Pennsylvania Biographical Sketches Presented by Pennsylvania Genealogy Trails & History

MAHLAN HAGERMAN, farmer, P. O. Comly, was born in Northampton County, May 22, 1813, son of Joshua and Susannah (Diltz) Hagerman, former of whom with two brothers came to Northampton County, Penn., from New Jersey. Joshua was the father of five children, of whom Mahlan is the fourth. Our subject was reared in Northampton County, Penn., and in 1841 removed to what is now Anthony Township, this county, and located where his son Joshua now resides; he has resided here ever since, and now has over 140 acres of land, and put up all his present improvements. He was married in Northampton County, October 22, 1838, to Miss Catharine, daughter of John and Hannah Weidman, former of whom died in 1840, latter about 1870, and they are buried in Northampton County. They were the parents of six children, five now living: Sarah Ann, wife of Charles Smith, in Limestone Township; Joshua, married to Sarah Albeck, in Anthony Township, this county; John, married to Amanda Snyder, in Northumberland County, Penn.; Susan Ellen, wife of William WEIR, in Ohio; Harriet Catharine, wife of S. Ford, in Hancock County, Ohio; Jacob is deceased. Mr. Hagerman has been supervisor three terms, and overseer of the poor eight terms. He has altogether 364 acres of land. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 184 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index CHARLES P. HANCOCK Standing conspicuously in the foremost ranks of the leading business men of Montour County, is the subject of this personal history, who is the proprietor of the famous "Globe Store" of Danville, one of the largest in the state, excluding those of Philadelphia. He is a son of William and Mary (Reay) Hancock, and was born in Danville, Montour County, Pa. The family is of English extraction and Mr. Hancock's grandfather was a resident of Lainesfield, Staffordshire, England. He was for many years a clerk at the Spring Dale Iron Works, near Bilston, Eng., and upon becoming an expert accountant his services were sought by many. He was the father of two sons: James and William, both of whom came to this country and located at Danville, Pa. William Hancock, the father of our subject, was born at Lainesfield, Staffordshire, Eng. it is thought, in 1812. He became a stock-taker and iron finisher of expert skill, and established a reputation in that line of work. When the Mountain Iron Works of Danville was built its projectors conceived the idea that pig iron could be made from anthracite coal, and as a result a rolling mill was erected in 1844, of which A. J. Voris, Esq., was made general builder, and Mr. Henry Brevoost superintendent. In order to make the trial they needed the assistance of experts for whom a man was dispatched to Sunderland, Eng., where he secured the services of two highly recommended men, William Hancock and John Foley. In 1844 they came to Danville and assumed charge of the plant, manufacturing what is known as the T rail, which is now in universal use. The U rail was previously in use, but after they began to manufacture the T rail, on October 8, 1845, it was supplanted by the latter, which is now the standard throughout the world. These rails were made under the supervision of Mr. Hancock, who had charge of the straightening and finishing, and his efficiency in that department made him noted far and wide in railroad circles. In 1847 in company with John Foley, under the firm name of Hancock & Foley, he purchased a mill which had been built by Bird Patterson, and named it the Rough and Ready Rolling Mill, for the manufacture of merchant iron. They continued until 1850, when it was merged into a rail mill and changed the name to the Glendower Iron Works. They were decidedly successful from the very start and eight years later our subject's father became sole proprietor and operated it until 1867, when the National Iron Company, of which he was made president, was formed and succeeded the Glendower Iron Works. In 1870 he and a Mr. Creveling built a furnace, but one year later the National Iron Company purchased it and operated it in connection with its other plant until the death of Mr. Hancock in 1872. In 1874 the heirs of William Hancock purchased the entire business under a mortgage sale and organized the Hancock Iron & Steel Company. Mr. Hancock was a very energetic and progressive business man and did more than any other man to promote the iron industry in his section of the state. His advice was frequently sought by the leading manufacturing concerns in the vicinity and always was freely given with the rare judgment which was characteristic of him. He was of honest and upright character, of charitable disposition, and fair in his dealings with all men. His death was a sad loss to the borough. At his death he was erecting one of the handsomest homes in Danville, a large three-story residence, built of Vermont granite and stone, on Market street, which is now the home of Charles P. Hancock, his son. He was a director in the Danville National Bank. Religiously he and his family were members of the Episcopal Church. He was thrice united in the bonds of matrimony, first with Isabella Emerson in England, who died at the age of thirty-six years. Their children were: Sarah, the wife of Benjamin G. Welsh.; Elizabeth J., the widow of J. D. Gosh, M. D., of Danville; Isabella, the wife of Harvey B. Crane; Cornelia P., who married S. A. York of Danville; and William D., who died at an early age. His second marital union was with Mary Reay, a daughter of John Reay, a native of England, by whom he had three children, as follows: Charles P., the gentleman whose name heads these lines; George M.; and Mary M., who married F. W. Watkin. His third marriage was to Mary Jones. Their children were: Harry T., who is a clerk in the "Globe Store," in Sunbury, Pa.; Jennie E.; and Augusta, the wife of John L. Lane. Charles P. Hancock was reared in Danville, and obtained a good English education in the public schools, after which he accepted a clerical position with the firm, Cleland, Simpson & Taylor. He continued in their employ until the firm removed to Scranton, Pa., when he was urged to accompany them as his services would be hard to replace. He was an ideal clerk, a model of politeness, and seemed to know the wants of every customer by intuition, always pleasing them and sending them away from the store satisfied. In 1883, after having acquired .the necessary experience, he resigned his position with the above firm and launched in business on his own account. He returned to Danville and opened the "Globe Store," where his former employers were located, and there has established the best store of its kind in this section of the state, owing to his untiring energy in catering to the wants of his many customers from all sections of the county, and his successful management. The building in which he is located is large and commodious, three stories high, and with its white front presents an attractive appearance. It is stocked with the latest and largest line of dry goods, notions, cloaks, ladies' tailor-made suits, men's furnishings, and fourteen competent clerks are' constantly employed to attend to the large patronage. The store is a model of neatness, everything being systematically arranged and in its place, which is always pleasing to a patron who does not wish to be delayed in making a purchase. Mr. Hancock richly deserves the abundance of success with which he has met, and has the good wishes of a host of friends. In 1898 he opened the largest retail dry goods store in Sunbury, where fifteen clerks are employed. Mr. Hancock was united in marriage to Adda L. Krebs, a daughter of Simon Krebs, who was formerly a resident of Danville and now is president and superintendent of the Listic Mining & Manufacturing Company, of Somerset, Pa. This union was blessed by the birth of three sons, namely: William K.; Charles P., Jr., who died in infancy; and John. Mr. Hancock takes an active interest in public affairs. He once served as president of the town council. He was also a member of the board of trade and has held numerous other offices of minor importance. He is a stockholder and director of the Danville National Bank. Religiously he is a member of Christ Memorial Church of Danville, and has been a vestryman for some time. Socially he is a member of the following orders: Mahony Lodge, No. 516, F. & A. M.; Danville Chapter, No. 239, R. A. M.; Calvary Commandery, No. 37, Knights Templar; and the Mystic Shrine. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 622 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) CHARLES P. HANCOCK, merchant, Danville, of which place he is a native, was born February 5, 1860, a son of William and Mary (Reay) Hancock, former a native of England, later of Maryland, both of English descent. Their family consisted of three children, of whom our subject is the eldest. His father was employed in iron works in his native country, and after his arrival in America engaged first in the Montour Iron Works. In 1874 he formed a partnership with John Foley, and established the "Rough and Ready Rolling Mill," and afterward became its owner. Subsequently a stock company was formed, and the name of the business was changed to the "National Iron Works," and Mr. Hancock was chosen president of the company. He was a successful business man, very popular with all those with whom he associated. He died in Danville, and will long be remembered by those who shared his friendship and enjoyed his favor. Our subject was reared in Danville, where he received his education, and where in early life he engaged for three years in the dry goods business as salesman. Later he was employed in a similar capacity at Scranton, and in this capacity has few equals in middle Pennsylvania. He inherits his father's gentlemanly demeanor and upright business habits, which naturally bring him a liberal patronage. His dry goods store, which is the largest in that line in Danville, is conducted on first-class principles, and affords employment to six clerks. Mr. Hancock opened his establishment in 1884, and has since built up a large trade. He is yet unmarried, is a member of the Heptasophs Society, and secretary of the Merchants Protective Society of Danville. Politically he is a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 156 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index W. JOSEPH HARRISON, under whose successful management the Danville Knitting Mill Company has prospered, is a lineal descendant of the inventor of the knitting machine, and was born December 17, 1863, in the city of Philadelphia. He is a son of William J. and Anna (Wrightson) Harrison. William J. Harrison, the father of our subject, was born in County Derry, Ireland, and early in life came to Philadelphia, Pa., where he followed the trade of a baker and later that of an engineer. When the Civil War broke out he enlisted and rendered valuable aid to the cause of his adopted country. After returning home he carried on a drug business until his retirement, when he returned to his native land and spent the remainder of his declining days, dying in 1896, at the age of sixty-one years. He was united in marriage with Anna Wrightson, a daughter of John Wrightson, who was a native of England, and a grandson, maternally, of Charles G. Shirtlift, the inventor of the knitting machine. Mr. Wrightson learned the details of the knitting business and came to America, locating in Philadelphia, where he established a knitting mill. He was succeeded as proprietor by his three sons: Henry, deceased; Arthur; and William. The two last named are still in that business. This union of our subject's parents resulted in the birth of the following children: W. Joseph; Robert C, a spinner of Philadelphia; Mary J.; John H., also a spinner of Philadelphia; and Oliver T., deceased. Mr. Harrison purchased a fine residence property in Philadelphia, where his beloved wife still lives. W. Joseph Harrison attended the public schools of his native city until he was twelve years of age, when he began working in the knitting mills, entering the employ of J. J. Glazier & Co., where he took advantage of every opportunity offered for advancement. After gaining a thorough knowledge of the business he accepted a position as foreman of the Love & Company Knitting Mills of Philadelphia, which he held in a satisfactory manner for a period of four years, when he became manager of the Thomas West Mills, in that city. At the expiration of five years time he became foreman of the Taylor & Hawthorne Company of Wilmington, Del., remaining with that firm until 1896, when he came to Danville and became stockholder and general manager of the Danville Knitting Mill Company, which was formerly the Equitable Stocking Company. At that time the plant was located on West Center street in an old school-house which was rebuilt to meet the requirements of the business. In July, 1898, the company erected a three-story brick building, 48x84 feet, on Church street, which they now occupy. It is well lighted with electricity and heated with steam and equipped in every way for the convenience of carrying on the business. They make a specialty of gentlemen's fine hose, and, as the demand for their goods is exceedingly large, 300 skilled hands are constantly employed. This was the first factory in the vicinity of Danville to employ female help, thereby effecting a great good by giving employment to many needy persons. Mr. Harrison was united in matrimonial bonds with Mary D. Farrell, a daughter of Edwin W. Farrell, a machinist of more than ordinary skill, of Philadelphia, and they are the happy parents of five children, namely: Annie; William; Lillie; Joseph; and Thomas. Socially he is past sachem of Mahoning Tribe, No. 77, I. O. R. M.; and was the organizer of Ialtah Tribe, No. 115, and of Meneola Tribe No. 187. Politically, our subject is a Democrat. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 695 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index F. Q. HARTMAN, one of the well-to-do and influential citizens of Danville, Pa., who is the proprietor of the Nemoloton Silk Mills of that town, was born at Scranton, Pa., May 3, 1861, and is a son of John G. Hartman, deceased, who was a native of Germany and a mechanic by trade. F. Q. Hartman possesses a good education which he received in the public schools of Scranton. Leaving school when a mere lad he sought employment in the Sagnoit Silk Mills of Scranton remaining with that company many years during which time he became thoroughly familiar with the manufacture of silk. His wide experience in business affairs attracted the attention of the Delaware & Hudson Railroad Company officials who offered him a position as assistant-paymaster of the railroad, which position he accepted; not only did he fulfill his duties with great credit to himself but to his superior officers as well, and upon his resignation from that position of trust he was begged to reconsider his action, and as an inducement, he was offered an increase in salary, but our subject had determined to enter into business on his own account. He removed to Danville and erected a large two-story brick building 53 by 125 feet on Water street and engaged in the manufacture of silk. The mill is equipped with sixteen thousand spindles and gives employment to about three hundred hands who are kept constantly busy in order to keep up with the orders. In 1896 the mill was destroyed by a cyclone and our subject sustained a severe loss; he immediately re-built and enlarged the mill, which is equipped with the most modern machinery. The mill is lighted throughout by. electricity, which is supplied by its own dynamo. Our subject was united in the bonds of matrimony to Genevieve Atwood, a daughter of Eugene Atwood, a silk manufacturer of Stonington, Conn. Mr. Hartman is considered an important factor in the business and industrial interests of Danville, aiding materially in developing its resources. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 586 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JACOB HARTMAN, farmer, P. O. Grovania, was born in Hemlock Township, Columbia Co., Penn., July 5, 1826, son of Jacob and Mary C. (Heinbald) Hartman, the former a native of Hemlock Township, Columbia County, and the latter of Cooper Township, this county, and of German descent. His grandfather, John Hartman, a native of Germany, immigrated to America about 1785, and first settled in Hemlock Township, Columbia County, where he took up a large tract of timber land, and there remained all his life and followed farming. He was in his eighty-fourth year at the time of his death. Our subject was reared on a farm and has always followed agriculture. He remained at home until twenty-one years of age, and then went to St. Joseph County, Mich., and was absent three years, working two years on a farm, and the remainder of his time in a steam saw-mill. In the spring of 1850 he bought a team, and followed teaming for five years, hauling ore, etc. He next rented a farm of Mr. Appleman, and carried on agriculture twenty-three years, then bought the place where he now resides. Mr. Hartman was married in 1852 to Lydia Krum, and they had five children, four of whom are living: Isaac, in Michigan; William, in Columbia County, Penn.; Wellington and Leander. Mrs. Hartman died July 8, 1884, and is buried in the Odd Fellows' cemetery, at Danville, Cooper Township, Montour County. Our subject's maternal grandfather served in the war of 1812. Mr. Hartman is a Democrat in politics, has held the offices of supervisor of the board of election and auditor. He owns 368 acres of land and the fine residence he now lives in. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 191 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index FREDERICK HELD, boot and shoe dealer, Danville, was born in Germany June 12, 1840, son of Peter and Catherine (Kopp) Held, natives of Germany, where the father was a laborer. Frederick is the eldest of four children and was reared by his parents in Germany, where he acquired his education. In 1864 he came to America and in 1865 to Danville, where he worked at boot and shoe-making which he still follows, having learned the trade in Germany. By economy and good management he has succeeded in acquiring a competency, owning two houses and lots and the storeroom in which he carries on his business. In 1863 he married Miss Minnie (daughter of John Adam Luckhardt) who bore him one son, Jacob, and who died in 1867. He married as his second wife Christina Kugler, of German origin, who has borne him the following named children: Amelia, Elizabeth, Anna and Peter Frederick. Mr. and Mrs. Held are consistent members of the Lutheran Church, in which he is elder. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 156 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JOHN HENDRICKS, farmer, P. O. Danville, was born in Montgomery County, Penn., October 25, 1826, son of Abraham and Mary (Hunsicker) Hendricks. John Hunsicker, his grandfather, was a bishop in the Menonite Church and served for twenty years in that capacity. Abraham Hendricks was a farmer and the father of six children, all living to be grown and married. Roger Hendricks, brother of our subject, is also a prominent farmer in Valley Township. At the age of seventeen John, our subject, commenced to teach school, and followed that until he was thirty-one years of age, and since then has devoted his time to farming. He came to Montour County, Penn., in 1858 and settled on the farm where he now resides. He was married in 1861 to Hannah, daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Roberts) Highley, who were of German and Welsh extraction. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hendricks has been blessed with three children: Joseph, who is a carpenter by trade; Frank, also a carpenter, and Sally at home. Mr. Henricks is a Republican in politics, and at present is a justice of the peace. He has served as school director for twelve years.(History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 217 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index WILLIAM HENRIE (deceased) was a native of New Jersey, born in 1799, of English origin. He grew to manhood in his native State where he received his education in the common schools, and afterward followed the milling business for several years. His family consisted of eight children, five of whom are now living. Mr. Henrie came to Danville, Penn., about 1833, and kept hotel until his death in 1876. He was a Democrat until 1856, after which he voted with the Republican party; served as a member of the town council, and also as burgess of Danville. Two of his daughters are now residents of Danville; one is the wife of J. C. Rhodes, and the other the wife of R. H. Woolley, a successful coal dealer. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 156 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index WILLIAM HENRY (deceased) was born November 20, 1831, in Liberty Township, Montour Co., Penn., son of John and Elizabeth (McClure) Henry, both of whom are deceased and are buried in the Centre graveyard, Liberty Township, this county. Our subject was reared in Montour County and always made it his home. He was twice married, his first wife having died sixteen months after their marriage. Our subject was married November 26, 1865, to Miss Mary Ellen McCracken, a native of this township and daughter of Abraham and Margaret (Vandling) McCracken, former of whom, a native of Northumberland County, Penn., is buried in the Chillisquaque Cemetery, latter a native of Northumberland County, Penn., being now a resident of this township. Mr. and Mrs. Herny were the parents of five children, all living: Samuel Peter, Margaret Ann, Clarence Alfred, Hannah Elizabeth and Minna Gerda. The father died January 3, 1878, and is buried in the Chillisquaque Cemetery. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church; in politics a Democrat. He was for twelve years county superintendent of Montour, an office he held longer than any other man had held the same office in the county. He was engaged in educational work from his seventeenth year till the time of his death. Also held several other offices. Mrs. Herny taught school at Danville, this county, in 1864, and in Milton, Northumberland County, in 1865, teaching from her eighteenth year to her twenty-second. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 200 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index HON. HENRY M. HINCKLEY, one of Danville's most eminent and honored attorneys, and ex-judge of Montour County, was born in Harrisburg, Pa., June 2, 1850. He is a son of Joel and Theodosia (Graydon) Hinckley, grandson of Charles Hinckley, and great-grandson of Joel and Hopestill (Brewster) Hinckley. Hopestill (Brewster) Hinckley, the great-grandmother of our subject, was born in Lebanon, Conn., May 27, 1760, and was a daughter of Ichabod Brewster. Ichabod Brewster was born in Saxony, Mass., in 1710, and his wife was Lydia Barstow; he was a son of William and Lydia (Partridge) Brewster, and a grandson of Truelove Brewster. Truelove Brewster was a son of Elder William Brewster, who was born in Wales in 1560; he, with his wife Mary, came to America on the Mayflower, in 1620, and he was the first minister in the New England States. Joel Hinckley, the great-grandfather of our subject, resided at Lebanon, Conn., all his life. His son Charles was born in Lebanon, Conn., April 26, 1786, and moved to Weathersfield, Vt., where he lived a number of years, then migrated to Harrisburg, Pa., where he followed his trade as a blacksmith the rest of his active clays. He retired from active labors, moving to Danville, where he passed from this life at the age of eighty-seven years. His wife was born in 1788 and died in 1836. They were the parents of the following children: Joel; Lucretia, who died in infancy; Julia Ann; Charles, who died in infancy; and Lucretia. Joel Hinckley, the father of our subject, was born at Weathersfield, Vt., January 19, 1809, and moved to Danville, Pa., in 1860, for many years being connected with the well-known firm of Waterman & Beaver. His latter clays were spent in retirement. He was united in marriage with Theodosia Graydon, who was born November 1, 1812, and who was the daughter of William and Eleanor Graydon. Eight children blessed the home of Mr. and Mrs. Hinckley, namely: Ellen: William, and Andrew, who died in infancy; Julia, who died unmarried; Charles, deceased, who married a Miss Travis; Alice and Helen, who died in infancy; and Henry M., our subject. The father of our subject entered the world of rest at the age of eighty-four, and his wife died at the age of forty-three years. Henry M. Hinckley received his primary education in the public schools of Harrisburg, Pa., and then entered Princeton College, from which he was graduated in 1874. In addition to his regular course he studied law and upon his graduation he returned to Danville and became a student of law with Isaac X. Grier. He was admitted to the bar of Montour County in 1875 and to the Supreme Court in 1878; he immediately began practicing his chosen profession with I. X. Grier, and continued with him until the latter retired from business to pass the sunset of life in quietude and peace. Hon. Henry M. Hinckley has a fine suite of rooms at No. 350 Mill street, and also has one of the best private libraries in Eastern Pennsylvania. He is one of the foremost attorneys of Montour County and has established a large practice; he possesses a large fund of knowledge, is fluent in speech and a pleasant talker. Our subject was appointed judge of the Montour courts in 1888 by Gov. James A. Beaver, which evidenced his popularity in the community. He is president of the Danville Y. M. C. A. Hon. Henry M. Hinckley was united in marriage with Minnie S. Gearhart, a daughter of Maybury Gearhart of Roaring Creek, and they have reared the following children: Sarah G.; John M., a student at Lafayette College; Eleanor; Edna, who attends Wilson College at Chambersburg, Pa.; and Elizabeth S. He is a member and elder of the Mahoning Presbyterian Church and is superintendent of the Sabbath School. Our subject has a handsome residence at Riverside surrounded by a beautiful lawn. In politics he is a stanch Republican. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 362 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) H. M. HINCKLEY, attorney, Danville, was born in Harrisburg, Penn., June 2, 1850; a son of Joel and Theodosia (Graydon) Hinckley. His mother was also a native of the same State and of Scotch-Irish origin; his father, born in Vermont, of English origin, was hardware merchant, engaged in mercantile business all his life. His family consisted of eight children, three of whom grew to maturity. Our subject, who is the only one now surviving, received the rudiments of his education in his native town, and subsequently attended Princeton College, where he graduated in the regular course in the class of 1874, and during his last years in college had found time to study law and also keep up with his classes. In the year 1872, he took up the study of law in the offices of his after partner in business, I. X. Grier, of Danville, and was admitted to practice in the courts of Montour County in 1875, and to the supreme court in 1878. He has since met with marked success and is numbered among the leading men of his profession in Montour County. He was united in marriage, in 1874, with Miss Amelia, daughter of Mayberry Gearhart. Her parents were members of the Society of Friends and of German descent. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Hinckley are Sarah G., John M., Eleanor G. and Edna. The parents are members of the Presbyterian Church, in which Mr. Hinckley is elder and trustee, taking an active interest in the Sabbath-school, in which he has been superintendent for several years. He is a Republican, but takes no very active part in politics, preferring to devote his time to his profession. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 156 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index NICHOLAS HOFER, retired carpenter, contractor, lumber dealer, etc., Danville, was born September 14, 1823, in Baden, Germany, where he received his education. He is the eldest of five children, and early in life served a regular apprenticeship at the carpenter's trade, which he followed in his native country until 1852. He then took passage for America to seek his fortune, landing in New York City, where he worked for four weeks. Thence he went to Newark, N. J., where he first worked for 75 cents a day, then $1 and later $1.50. It was there he met Miss Clara Witz, whom he married in 1854, and who was also born in Baden, Germany. In 1855 they came to Danville, Penn., and on arriving, found their funds exhausted, and were $5 in debt besides. Mr. Hofer soon found work at his trade, his diligence, industry and knowledge of his business soon bringing him custom. He first worked by the day; then contracted, erecting many of the residences of Danville, and carried on business successfully and extensively for years, and finally added the lumber trade. His only child, Edward, is at present a carpenter and contractor, having learned the trade with his father, and also owns and operates the lumber yard at Danville. Mr. Hofer has retired from active duties, having accumulated a goodly share of this world's goods, and whatever efforts he now makes are for the benefit of his only son, who resides near his parents and is doing well. Mr. Hofer is a Democrat, and has been a member of the town council of Danville; is a member of the K. of P. and I. O. O> F. societies, both of the encampment and subordinate lodges, and is a member also of the Masonic fraternity. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 157 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JACOB P. HOFFA, physician, Washingtonville, Penn., is a grandson of Jacob and Rachel (Follmer) Hoffa, the latter's history dating back over a century, and whose family belonged to the pioneers of this county. The former was born May 20, 1880, in Reading, Berks Co., Penn., and descended from German lineage. He came to Northumberland County when quite a boy, and learned the carpenter trade under John Deeter, of Chillisquaque, and afterward became an extensive contractor. After his marriage with Rachel Follmer, who has inherited large landed estate from her father, he engaged extensively in farming; and having purchased large timber tracts in Clinton and Lycoming Counties he erected saw-mills and began the manufacture of lumber on a large scale, in which he continued for over twenty years. He amassed a considerable fortune, and died May 15, 1882. His wife died August 26, 1867. There are four sons and one daughter living: John Hoffa, Turbot Township, Northumberland County; Samuel F. Hoffa, Milton, same county; Sarah Ann, married to John Shalter, Limestoneville, Montour County; Cyrus Hoffa, Lewisburg, Union County, and Reuben Hoffa, Reading--all of the State of Pennsylvania. John Hoffa, father of Jacob P. Hoffa, was born May 3, 1826, at the old homestead on which he now lives and inherited it from his grandfather, John Follmer, being one of the finest farms in central Pennsylvania, comprising a tract of 220 acres. John Hoffa has followed farming all his life, and is one of the most enterprising and progressive farmers of the age, keeping abreast with all the modern improvements pertaining to the art and science of farming, and at all times refusing offers of political preferment, has made farming a success. He is a member of the Lutheran Church, and takes great interest in its welfare and advancement. He is also an active member of the State Board of Agriculture, having been called upon at various times to write essays with respect to farming. His first wife, Sarah Ann Schaeffer, daughter of Peter Schaeffer, of Watsontown, Northumberland Co., Penn., died December 7,1864. Three children of their union died in infancy. Those now living are Catharine Ann, wife of J. D. Smith, Kansas; Jacob P. Hoffa; Daniel H., in Kansas; John Follmer and William Francis (twins), in Lewisburg. His second wife was Catharine Litchard by whom he had two children: Cora M., wife of H. McGinnis, of Allenwood, Union Co., Penn., and Cyrus, living with his father. Mrs. Catharine Hoffa died September 24, 1878. Later he married Margaret Follmer, his present wife. Dr. Jacob P. Hoffa was born June 26, 1852. After receiving a thorough common school education he attended the academy at Limestoneville and completed his education at Selinsgrove Missionary Institute, after which he was in the mercantile business for his grandfather during the period of a year and a half, in Lycoming County. He then taught school four years. During the latter part of that time he began reading medicine under the preceptorship of Dr. U. Q. Davis, of Milton, Penn., and graduated from Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, in March, 1876. In the same month he came to Washingtonville, and the following winter took a post-graduate course at the same college, thus qualifying himself thoroughly in his profession. Since then he has resided in Washingtonville, and has established a large and lucrative practice. On January 8, 1878, he married Miss Clara A., daughter of William and Sarah Smith, of Limestone Township. She was born July 18, 1856, and two children have been born to their union: John Sidney, born July 23, 1879, and Willie Huber, born September 12, 1881. Dr. Hoffa has been three times elected burgess of Washingtonville, first in 1879. He has been president of the Montour County Medical Society, is a member of the State Medical Society, and was elected to the State Legislature in 1884, and re-elected in 1886. He is now serving his second term, his constituents sending him back well pleased with the manner in which he represented them during his first term. He is a member of Derry Lodge, No. 759, I. O. O. F., in which he has passed all the chairs. He and Mrs. Hoffa are members of the Lutheran Church. He is active in the Sabbath-school and is teacher of the senior Bible class. As a man and a physician he has the esteem and confidence of the people among whom he lives. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 196 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index EDWARD G. HOFFMAN, who prior to his death, July 13, 1898, was prothonotary and clerk of the several courts of Montour County, Pa., was one of the highly esteemed and valued citizens of the town of Danville. He was a native of Rush township, Northumberland County, and was a son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Wolverton) Hoffman, a grandson of Abraham Hoffman, and a great-grandson of Jacob Hoffman. Jacob Hoffman was born in Germany. He immigrated to this country, locating in New Jersey, where he engaged in the cultivation of the soil. He was a soldier in the War of the Revolution. Abraham Hoffman, the grandfather of our subject, settled in Shamokin township, Northumberland County, Pa., where he was successfully engaged as an agriculturist. He was the father of the following children: John; Peter; Michael; Abraham; Barbara; and Maria. Abraham Hoffman, the father of our subject, was born on his father's farm in Northumberland County where he spent his boyhood days assisting his father in the labors on the farm. Attaining his majority he was in the mercantile business for a number of years, sold out and purchased a farm in Rush township, Northumberland County. He remained there the rest of his days, passing away at the age of eighty-seven years, four months and twenty-seven days. Prior to his death he was a hearty, strong and active man, and his demise was sudden, the cause being a stroke of apoplexy. He was joined in the bonds of wedlock with Elizabeth Wolverton, a daughter of Roger Wolverton of Northampton County, Pa. They were the parents of eight children, namely: Maria, John, Beulah, Jacob, Jemima, Erastus, Isaac, and Edward G. Mrs. Hoffman died at the age of fifty-nine years. Edward G. Hoffman, the subject of this sketch, received his primary education in the public schools and completed it by a course in the Danville Academy. The next nine years were spent in teaching in the public schools of Danville, after which he carried on farming in Rush township for four years. In 1861 he removed to Danville and was employed as bookkeeper in the store of Waterman & Beaver. Later he served as commissioner clerk for the county for five years. In 1873 he was elected justice of the peace, and in connection with the duties of that office also acted as prothonotary of Montour County. In 1887 our subject was elected prothonotary and clerk of the courts of Montour County, and filled those offices until his death; he proved himself worthy of the position, and won high esteem in his profession. Mr. Hoffman was united in the bonds of matrimony with Sarah E. Mettler, a daughter of Wilson Mettler, a prominent farmer of Rush township, Northumberland County, and they had one child, Annie Elizabeth, born in 1864, who assisted her father in the discharge of his duties, being deputy prothonotary. In 1869 Mr. Hoffman erected a handsome brick residence at No. 121 Market street, where he resided the remainder of his life. He was a member and past master of Danville Lodge No. 224, F. & A. M.; Danville Commandery No. 37, of Danville. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 706 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index THEODORE HOFFMAN, of the firm Hoffman & Divel, the largest meat dealers of Montour County, who conduct a shop on the corner of Mill and Mulberry streets, Danville, Pa., is one of the wide-awake and energetic business man of the borough. He was born in Rheinpfalz, Kingdom of Bavaria, Germany, January 28, 1834, and is a son of Frank and Rosanna (Ederitch) Hoffman. Frank Hoffman was a native of Germany and was a butcher by trade, as were his ancestors. He wedded Rosanna Ederitch and they reared a family of children, one of whom is the subject of this personal history. Our subject possesses a liberal education. During his younger days he worked in the meat-shop owned by his father, and has since followed the trade of a butcher. In 1855 he immigrated to America and for a short time worked as a butcher in New York, Philadelphia and Lewisburg, Pa., and finally located in the town of Danville in 1856, and has since been engaged at his occupation. April 1i, 1875, hne bought out John Rockfellow, of the firm of Rockfellow & Divel. The present proprietors are both popular and highly respected citizens of Danville and by their honest methods of dealing have succeeded in establishing a large patronage. They kill on an average of twelve head of cattle per week and always keep a fresh supply of meat in their shop. They have a slaughter-house 50 by 80 feet and a stockyard 80 by 200 feet, located on Montgomery street, and ship extensively to the western part of the state. Mr. Hoffman was united in marriage to Elizabeth Gouchu, a daughter of Frederick Gouchu. She passed from this life at the age of fifty-two years, leaving the following children: Henry, who died at the age of five years; Theodore, a butcher; Frank, who is prospecting in the Western States; George, a teamster residing in Danville; Simon, a butcher by trade and a resident of Danville; John, who is also prospecting in the West; Louise; Lena; Lizzie; Caroline; Mary; and Clara. Our subject owns a handsome residence, No. 200 Mulberry street, which he has acquired by his own industry and economy. He has served one year as a policeman, and is now overseer of the poor of Montour County. Mr. Hoffman is a self-made man, and has made a bright mark in the community of which he is a member. His energy and enterprise have already been productive of the best results, and a natural and inherited perseverance insures for him unlimited success in the future. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 96 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index HON. WILLIAM K. HOLLOWAY, an honored and influential citizen of Danville, who is passing his latter days in retirement, enjoying a well-earned competency, and who is now serving his third term in the city council, was born in Amityville, Berks County, Pa., January 1, 1835. He spent his younger days upon his fathers farm and attended the public schools of his native town. At the age of thirteen years, of his own free will he sought a position as clerk in a store in the city of Reading, the county seat of his native county. This was the starting out of a self-made man, one who became and who for many years has been a model business man. He has won an excellent reputation for square dealing, unswerving integrity and for all the many qualities which are component parts of true manhood. His example is one that might advantageously be followed by all. In 1856 our subject located in Danville, Pa., where he was employed as a clerk in the old Montour Iron Company's store; later he was transferred to the dry goods department, which position he retained one year, at which time the old firm was succeeded by Waterman & Beaver, when he was promoted to timekeeper and superintendent of accounts. His next promotion was to cashier and paymaster, in which capacity he remained about twelve years, fulfilling his duties with great credit to himself and employers. In 1880 the store passed to Waterman & Company, who subsequently sold out to the Philadelphia & Reading Coal & Iron Company, and Mr. Holloway became general manager of the entire business. April 1, 1887, our subject, in company .with W. C. Frick and F. P. Howe, purchased the store, and it was conducted under the firm name of William K. Holloway & Company. Three years later Mr. Frick purchased our subject's interest and Mr. Holloway then retired from active business, with the exception of looking after his personal and real property. In 1897 Mr. Holloway became a silent partner of the firm of Miller & Rhoads of Richmond, Va. Our subject resides in his handsome brick residence, No. 16 Bloom street. He is a stanch Republican in politics, and although he has never sought political distinction, he served an unexpired term as associate judge, having been appointed by Gov. Beaver, and is now serving his third term in the city council. In 1859 Mr. Holloway was united in marriage to Ruth Yeager, a daughter of Jacob Yeager of Columbia County, Pa., and to this union five children have been given, namely: Sally, deceased, who was the wife of W. S. Rhoads, and they were the parents of one child, Katherine; Lizzie, who is the wife of Clarence Frick, teller of the Danville National Bank, and who has reared three children, Ruth, Clarence, and Cordelia; William D., who was recently a member of the firm of Holloway & Hurst, dealers in wholesale stationery, of Danville; Thomas B., who graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Medical College in 1897 and is now a resident physician of the Philadelphia Hospital; and Mary, who resides at home. Mr. Holloway and his family are popular and consistent workers in the Presbyterian Church. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 642 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) W. K. HOLLOWAY, superintendent of the store of the Montour Iron & Steel Company, Danville, was born in Berks County, Penn., January 1, 1835, a son of Samuel (a farmer) and Sarah (Kirling) Holloway, natives of Berks County, Penn., and of English origin. Our subject was reared on the farm, and attended the common schools of his native county. Not liking farming, he obtained, in his thirteenth year, a position as clerk in a store in Reading, Penn., where he remained one year; was then employed at other work until coming to Danville, in 1856, when he clerked another year, and was then promoted to time-keeper and superintendent of accounts. He was next promoted to cashier, which responsible position he filled for twelve years, and in 1878 was made general superintendent of the store. The importance of this trust can be better realized when it is considered that the annual sales of this business run as high as $500,000, and its success is very largely due to Mr. Holloway's complete system and exact business management, he having been engaged in almost all the departments of the store for over thirty years. He married, in 1859, Ruth, daughter of Jacob Yeager, of Columbia County, Penn., and they have five children: Sally, Lizzie, William, Thomas Beaver and Mary. Mrs. Holloway and eldest daughter are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Holloway is a Republican, a member of the town council of Danville, and chairman of the water committee. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 157 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index F. P. HOWE, president of the North Branch Steel Works, Danville, was born in Philadelphia, Penn., September 19, 1852, a son of Bishop Mark Anthony De Wolfe Howe and Elizabeth (Marshall) Howe, the former a native of Rhode Island, and the latter of Virginia, both of English origin. The father is the Episcopal bishop of the diocese of central Pennsylvania. F. P. is the fourth in a family of six children. Our subject attended school in his native city of Philadelphia until fifteen years of age, when he entered Brown University, Providence, R. I., where he graduated in the regular classical course with the degree of A. M. He was then engaged in the office of the rolling-mills of the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad Company for three years, and at the expiration of that time entered Lehigh University, and took a full course in mining engineering, graduating in 1878. He was again employed by the Rolling Mill Company for a year, when he accepted a position as chemist for the Keystone Furnace Company, which he filled until 1880. In that year he came to Danville, and, on the organization of the Montour Iron & Steel Company, was made general superintendent, and operated the works for five years. He then resigned his position, having purchased a rolling-mill at Phillipsburg, N. J., but had hardly got it in operation before he was called to his present position. He married, in 1881, Katherine, daughter of W. J. Woodward, of Berks County, Penn. Her parents were of English descent, and her father, a Democrat, was elected supreme judge of Pennsylvania in 1874, serving with honor until his death. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 157 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index REV. JAMES A. HUBER, pastor of St. Hubert's German Catholic Church of Danville, Pa., was born at Lancaster, Pa., February 15, 1853, and is a son of William and Catherine (Koperle) Huber. William Huber, now deceased, was a native of Baden, Germany, who, upon coming to this country, located at Lancaster, Pa., where he followed his trade as a builder and contractor. He was united in marriage with Catherine Koperle, and a family of eight children was born to them, who were named as follows: William, Titus, John, Mary, James, Barbara, Harry, and Catherine. Rev. James A. Huber was a graduate of St. Vincent's College, and was ordained to preach in 1880, and at once became assistant pastor of St. Mary's Church of Lancaster, from which place he was sent to New Freedom, Pa. Later he became pastor of the Carlisle Catholic Church, then was stationed at Elizabethtown, from which place he removed to Danville, and has occupied the pulpit of St. Hubert's German Catholic Church since March, 1895. The handsome church edifice was erected in 1862, is built of brick, and has a large basement, where the German Catholic School is conducted by sisters, Catherine and Huberta, who have some sixty pupils. The church is heated by hot air and lighted by gas; it has a membership of fifty families. A portrait of Rev. James A. Huber is presented on another page, in connection with the above life history. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 689 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index DAVID C. HUNT, manufacturer of light wagons and carriages, Danville, was born in Bedford County, Penn., May 8, 1842, a son of G. W. and Hannah (Smith) Hunt, the latter a Quaker of English origin. David C. is the eighth in a family of nine sons and three daughters, ten of whom grew to maturity. He was reared in Bedford County, and at the age of twelve years went to Urbana, Ohio, to learn the carriage-maker's trade (which was also his father's business), where he remained five years. In 1860 he came to Danville and, in partnership with his brother, George E. and John H., embarked in the business of manufacturing and repairing carriages. The firm continued thus until 1865, when the partnership was dissolved, and the business continued until 1876 by G. E. Hunt. Since then David C. has conducted the business alone, and has been very successful. His experience, mechanical skill and attention to business have eminently fitted him for his vocation. In 1865 he married Kate Gulick, a daughter of Isaac Gulick. Her parents were among the early settlers of Montour County, and of German origin. Mrs. Hunt bore her husband two children, Horace and Edward, and died in 1873, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1876 Mr. Hunt married Kate, daughter of William Richard, of English origin, and three children have been born to the union: Montgomery, William and Ralph. Mr. Hunt served in the quartermaster's department of the Union army in 1864, and was stationed at Little Rock, Ark. Politically, he is a Democrat. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 157 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JOSEPH HUNTER, collector of bridge toll, Danville, was born in Montour (then Columbia) County, Penn., November 15, 1823, a son of Joseph and Martha (Hunter) Hunter, the former a native of Ireland and the latter of Pennsylvania, of Irish origin. The father came to America before he attained his majority, and was employed on public works in Pennsylvania, and also took contracts and built canals and railroads. His early life was passed as a school-teacher; later as a contractor, but finally in the lumber business. His family consisted of ten children, Joseph being the fourth. Our subject was born in this county, but at the age of six years removed to Milton, where he received his education and served an apprenticeship at shoemaking. In 1844 he came to Danville and engaged in the manufacture of boots and shoes until 1851, since which time he has occupied his present position. Politically, he is a Democrat; he has served six terms as burgess of Danville, being elected the first time in 1879. In 1846 he married Mehetabel A. Campbell, a native of Pennsylvania and of Scotch descent. Their children are Henrietta M., Joseph C., James K. and William E., the last named deceased. Mrs. Hunter died in 1859, and in 1861 our subject married Miss Elizabeth H., daughter of John W. Miles. Mrs. Hunter is an active worker in the Sabbath-schools of Danville, and she and her husband are members of the First Baptist Church, with which he has been connected since 1845, and in which he has served as deacon for over thirty years. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 158 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JAMES M. IRELAND, of McMahan & Ireland, leading photographers, Danville, was born on the old homestead farm in Turbot township, Northumberland County, September 23, 1847. He is a son of John M. and Amanda M. (McMahan) Ireland, former of Northumberland county, latter of Montour, both members of the Presbyterian Church. Their ancestors, paternal and maternal, were Scotch-Irish Presbyterians, and among the earliest settlers of Pennsylvania. John and Amanda Ireland had a family of two sons and two daughters, James M. being the eldest. Our subject worked on the farm, attending school until in August, 1864, when he enlisted in Company E, Ninth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, and served until the close of the war. He was captured at Woodbury, Tenn., and paroled some three weeks later. At the close of the war he returned to Danville, where he has since resided. He married Miss Lucy F. Maxwell, of Carbondale, Lackawanna Co., Penn., daughter of Robert and Jean (Douglas) Maxwell, former a merchant at Carbondale. Mr. and Mrs. Ireland have four children living: Grace L., Robert D., Thomas C. and Helen C. Mr. Ireland is a member of the G. A. R., Goodrich Post, No. 22. In politics he is a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania Battle, 1887, pg. 158 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JOHN JACOBS, baker, and wholesale and retail dealer in confectionery, Mill Street, Danville, was born in Germany, September 19, 1836, a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Weber) Jacobs, who were also natives of Germany, where his father was a farmer. John is the sixth of eight children, was reared on the farm with his parents and was educated in the schools of his native country until his seventeenth year. In 1854 he came to America, first settling at Pottsville, Penn., where he learned to manufacture all kinds of candy, and worked at that business until 1859, when he came to Danville. In 1860 he established his present business, and has succeeded in building up a good trade. He married December 1, 1859, Charlotte, daughter of Frederick and Elizabeth (Dietrick) Frisch, natives of Germany. Mr. Frisch was a pattern-maker by trade, and worked at it in Danville for several years. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs: Frederick, Charles, George, Clara, Alfred, Maggie, John and Mary. The parents are members of the Lutheran Church, of which Mr. JACOBS was treasurer of the board of trustees for many years. Politically he is a Democrat, and has been assessor of Danville; is a member of the I. O. O. F., also of the K. of P., a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity and a Sir Knight Templar. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 158 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index U. Y. JAMES, dealer in groceries, flour and feed, Danville, was born on Ferry Street of that city, June 3, 1858, a son of Josiah and Jane (Meredity) James, natives of Pennsylvania and of English origin. His father came to Danville in 1849, and worked in the ore mines, but subsequently followed the mercantile trade, and now leads a retired life in Danville. Our subject is the youngest of two children, and was reared in Danville, where he attended the public schools. Early in life he commenced to work in his father's store and finding the mercantile trade congenial to his taste, embarked in the present business on Market Street in 1881, and has since been very successful. He is obliging to all, keeps a delivery wagon and attends closely to business. In 1882 he married Minerva, a native of Pennsylvania, of German origin, and the daughter of William Johnston. Mr. and Mrs. James have one child, May; they attend the Methodist Church. Mr. James is a Republican, an active member of the K. of L. and of the I. O. O. F. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 158 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index DR. IRVING H. JENNINGS, whose office is located at No. 104 Mill street, Danville, Pa., is one of the leading dentists of Montour County. He was born in Harrisburg, Pa., and is a son of John C. Jennings. He obtained his intellectual training in the public and high schools of Harrisburg, after which he was prepared for the dental profession in the University of Pennsylvania, from which he graduated in 1883. Immediately thereafter he began practice in Harrisburg and continued until 1885, when he moved to Danville, where he has since continued to practice. Dr. Jennings was joined in hymeneal bonds with Sara Hurley Baldy, and they are the happy parents of a bright and interesting son, Edward Baldy Jennings, who was born in Danville, September 4, 1897. Religiously, Dr. and Mrs. Jennings are consistent members of Christ Episcopal Church of Danville. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index CAPT. JOSEPH H. JOHNSON, merchant, Danville, was born in Pottsville, Penn., March 18, 1840, the only child of Joseph and Nancy (Gedling) Johnson, natives of Durham, England. The parents were married in their native country in 1839, and on coming to America soon after, settled in Pottsville, Schuylkill County, where the father worked in mines. Subsequently he moved to Philadelphia where he died in 1843. Our subject attended school but nine months in all, and has passed the most of his life in Danville. He commenced to work in the "Rough and Ready Rolling Mill" at Danville, when only ten years old, and followed that business for twenty-four years, filling many positions from boy to superintendent. April 27, 1861, he enlisted in the service of his adopted country, in Company C, Fourteenth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, for three months; served his term of enlistment, and the same year re-enlisted, this time in Company H, Ninety-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, and participated in the following battles: Chantilly, Antietam, Mays Heights, Fredericksburg, Salem Heights, Gettysburg, Rappahannock, Mud Run, Williamsburg, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, first battle in front of Petersburg, Fort Stephens and Charleston, Va. He was in twenty-four engagements and was present at the surrender of Gen. Lee. He entered as private and returned home as captain, having acted as such the last year of the war. In 1875 he established Johnson's green grocery, at which business he is still actively engaged. He is a member of the G. A. R., and of the I. O. O. F., of which he is now Noble Grand, of Calumet Lodge, No. 279, of Danville. In politics he is a Republican. Capt. Johnson married in 1886, Elizabeth C., daughter of Urias Tillson, a native of Massachusetts, of English descent, and by trade a molder. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 161 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index B. F. JOHNSTON, farmer, P. O. White Hall, was born in Madison Township, Columbia Co., Penn., November 11, 1835, son of Jonathan and Charity (Yeager) Johnston, former of whom was born December 9, 1809, died April 1, 1880, and latter born February 7, 1811, died February 9, 1885hey are buried at Jerseytown, Penn. Robert Johnston, great-grandfather of our subject, came to Columbia County from New Jersey about 1796. His parents were of Scotch birth. He bought land in Madison Township, Columbia Co., and there he lived until his death. He had about 100 acres of land. His wife's maiden name was Kitchen. They are both buried in the Jerseytown Cemetery. John Johnston, grandfather of B. F., was born in New Jersey and came to Columbia County with his parents. He was married to Mary Robbins. They both lived in Madison Township, Columbia County, until their death, and are buried at Jerseytown. They had seven children: Wesley, Jonathan, Robert, William, Eliza, Sarah and Nancy, all deceased except William who lives in Jerseytown. Jonathan Johnston, father of B. F., was born at Millville, Penn., and resided in Madison Township, Columbia County all his life. He was married to Charity Yeager, and they were the parents of Henry James, B. F., Harriet, Robert, Eliza, Amos, Catharine, William, Sarah Florence, and one deceased named John. The subject of this sketch was reared in Columbia County, and educated in the common schools of his township at Millville, and at the State normal at Millersburg, and came to his present location in 1870, where he has 200 acres of land. He was married January 31, 1868, to Miss Susan J. Fruit, and they are the parents of four children: Nellie C., Lizzie R., Horace J. and George F. Mr. Johnston is a director of the schools of this township. He enlisted August 24, 1862, in Company E., One Hundred and Thirty-second Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, serving in the Second Army Corps, and was in engagements at Antietam, Fredericksburg, and Chancellorsville. He served ten months, was discharged and returned home. He again enlisted March 20, 1865, and served at Camp Cadwallader until the close of the war. In politics he is a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 184 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index WILLIAM C. JOHNSTON, register and recorder, Danville, was born in Columbia County, Penn. (in what is now Derry Township, Montour County) February 14, 1818, a son of Walter (a farmer) and Elizabeth (Craig) Johnston, natives of Lancaster County, Penn., and of Scotch-Irish origin, and whose family consisted of four children, of whom William C. is the eldest. Our subject was reared on the farm and attended the common schools of Derry Township, and Danville, also those of Milton and Lewisburg. At the age of sixteen he obtained a certificate to teach school, and followed the profession for twelve years, a part of the time in Danville. He was elected register and recorder of Montour County in 1850, being the first to occupy that position in this county, and has held it ever since. He has also read law, but prefers his present business. He married, October 13, 1857, Amanda BLUE, a daughter of Isaiah Blue, a farmer. She was of Scotch-Irish descent, died in Danville, April 13, 1886, and is buried in the new Presbyterian burying-ground, loved and respected by all who knew her. To Mr. and Mrs. Johnston were born the following named children: Agnes B., Elizabeth A., Sally C., Samuel and Mary Amanda. The family attend the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Johnston is a Democrat in politics, and served several terms as school director. He was formerly a prominent member of the I. O. O. F., and was Noble Grand of the subordinate lodge. He was among the first members of the Masonic fraternity of the first lodge organized in Danville. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 161 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index HARRY KEARNS, tobacco and cigar dealer, Danville, was born in Manchester, England, July 23, 1828, a son of Henry and Sarah (Ward) Kearns, natives respectively of Ireland and England. The father was an overseer in a woolen factory for many years, but resigned his position, in 1862, to come to America. He settled in Philadelphia, where he died in 1864, at the age of seventy-five years. Henry was reared in England, where he was also educated, and in early life learned the trade of gas-fitting. In 1854 he came to America and worked in Philadelphia at the gas-fitting business for Morrs & Decker, which he has followed in this county for thirty-two years. He has also traveled and worked to a considerable extent in large cities. In 1861 he enlisted at Chicago, Ill., in Battery D, of the First Artillery, and participated in several battles, including Atlanta, where the concussion of the guns caused him to lose his hearing. He served until the close of the war, and, in 1865, returned to Philadelphia. He then went to Ohio, where he engaged in the plumbing business for three years, when he returned to Philadelphia and served for a time as engineer at the Girard House. In 1874 he came to Danville and took charge of the machinery and gas-fitting in the asylum, and remained in charge until 1886, when he resigned. Since then he has been engaged in his present business. He married at Baltimore, Md., Miss Margaret Alice, daughter of John Smith, a mill owner, of English descent. One child, James W., blessed the union. Mr. Kearns is a member of the I. O. O. F., of the K. of P., and also of the G. A. R. Mrs. Kearns is a member of the German Reformed Church. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 161 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index WILLIAM V. KERR, P. O. Mooresburg, was born at the place where he now resides, February 14, 1851, and was here reared to manhood. He has spent his life on the farm, with exception of between the years of 1872 and 1876, when he was in partnership with G. P. Reighard, at Mooresburg, this county. He was married November 2, 1876, to Alice, daughter of John B. and Sarah Smith, of Mifflinburg, Penn., and they are the parents of four children, two now living: Joseph H. and John R.; Mary Finney and Louise are deceased. Mr. Kerr has the old homestead of 100 acres. Mr. and Mrs. Kerr are members of the Presbyterian Church. In politics he is a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 200 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index MARTIN KELLEY, farmer and lumberman, P. O. Washingtonville, is a son of Martin Kelley, who was a farmer and hotel-keeper of Liberty Township, where he died. The latter's wife, Catherine Billmeyer, was a native of Liberty Township and died in Danville a short time before her husband. Their children were John, who died in Northumberland County; Fannie died in Liberty Township; Jesse died near Milton; Andrew died in Liberty; Benjamin was hurt in a saw-mill which caused his death shortly after; Jacob died in Valley; George is a farmer in Liberty Township, and married to Annie Billmeyer. Martin is the only other survivor, and was born in Liberty Township, April 10, 1835, and was quite young when his parents died. He worked among relatives until the breaking out of the Rebellion, when he enlisted in Company C, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, the "Columbia Guards." The company served a month over its term. A year after his return Mr. Kelly married Mary A., daughter of Franklin Ryan of Muncy. She was born June 4, 1845, and has borne her husband six children, the youngest of whom, Fannie M., born April 26, 1881, died February 7, 1882. The others, who live with their parents, are Ida E., Emma L., Bruce C., Jesse B. and Mamie V. Mr. Kelly has never held any public office but attends strictly to his business. Politically he is a Democrat. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 197 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JACOB KREAMER, farmer, P. O. White Hall, was born in Madison Township, Columbia Co., Penn., January 16, 1839, son of Conrad and Catharine (Bowman) Kreamer; the former, born in Germany in 1800, came to America and first settled at Philadelphia. Our subject spent his early life in Columbia County, Penn., and in 1850 went to Lock Haven, Penn., where he commenced lumbering. In 1865 he came to his present location in Anthony Township, bought 148 acres of land from George W. Suplee, now of Bloomsburg, Penn., and made all the improvements except building the house. He was married July 4, 1865, at Muncy, Penn., to Miss Mary McBride, daughter of William McBride, and they have seven children: William S., Thomas C., Charles, Frank L., Clyde, Roy and Clara. Mrs. Kreamer and eldest child are members of the Baptist Church. Mr. Kreamer is now connected with the lumber business, and has a saw-mill in Madison Township, Columbia County, in partnership with his brother-in-law, William Moore. They have 100 acres of timber land in Madison Township, Columbia County, and twenty-one in this township. In politics Mr. Kreamer is a Democrat. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 185 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JOHN KREAMER, farmer, P. O. White Hall, was born in Philadelphia, Penn., June 27, 1829, son of Conrad and Catharine (Bowman) Kreamer. Our subject was reared in Philadelphia to the age of four years, when his parents removed to the vicinity of White Hall, this county, but in Madison Township, Columbia County, and there and in Montour County he has spent the remainder of his lifetime, with the exception of two years in Illinois. He worked in the dam at Towanda two years, and lumbered in Centre County, Penn., one winter, which he also followed eight years while living in Madison Township, lumbering over the mountains from the North Mountain to Pottsville, Schuylkill County. During those eight years he only laid by one day on account of stormy weather was married March 5, 1857, to Martha J., a daughter of John Derr. She died in October, 1859, and is buried at West Paw Paw Grove, Lee Co., Ill., leaving one child; Effie Catharine, wife of David Cox, in Madison Township, Columbia Co., Penn., on the old homestead. Mr. Kreamer was next married in December, 1862, to Jane D., a daughter of Christopher and Mary (Upp) Derr, and by her has two children; Mary Margaret and Annie Phoebe. Mr. Kreamer bought his present farm in 1874, and moved to it in March, 1875. It consisted of eighty-three acres when he bought it, but he now has 105 acres. He has one of the finest farms in the township. Mr. and Mrs. Kreamer are members of the White Hall Baptist Church, as are also all the family. Mr. Kreamer is at present overseer of the poor, which office he previously held one term of four years. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania Battle, 1887, pg. 185 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index SIMON KREBS, senior member of the firm of KREBS & Co., dealers in wines and liquors, Danville, is a native of Germany, born April 10, 1839, to John and Catherine (Scheids) Krebs, also natives of Germany. The father was a farmer, kept a vineyard and manufactured wine; immigrated to America in 1855, settling in Schuylkill County, Penn., where he spent the remainder of his life. He was born in 1809 and died in his seventy-third year. Simon is the youngest of three sons and two daughters, and was reared with his parents on the farm in Germany until he was fifteen years old. He came with his family to America, learned the carpenter's trade, and at the age of nineteen went to California, where he worked at his trade two years. In 1864 he returned to Pennsylvania, and in 1868 came to Danville. He took the contract and built the water-works at Danville in 1872 and 1873 at a cost of $165,000, and it is often said to Mr. Krebs' credit, that the works are first-class in every respect. He is a member of the Democratic party, and takes a lively interest in politics, but has never held office, though frequently a delegate to the county conventions. In 1865 he married Harriet, daughter of Jacob Swartz, a prominent merchant at Tamaqua, and of German descent. To the union the following children have been born: Adda L., George J., Clara, Lewis J. and Leah. Mr. and Mrs. Krebs are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Krebs is the owner of iron mines in Snyder County, Penn., which he has been working since 1874, and each year has shipped on an average 4,000 tons of ore, which is known as the bird eye ore. Thirty-six men are employed in his mines. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 162 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index CHRISTIAN LAUBACH, merchant, Danville, was born in Sugarloaf Township, Columbia Co., Penn., February 22, 1816; a son of Christian (a farmer) and Mary (Frutchy) Laubach, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent, former of whom died in Columbia County in 1825. Our subject, the youngest of eleven children, was only nine years of age when his parents died, and he then went to live with his brother. He acquired his education at the old log schoolhouse of his township, and when seventeen years of age resolved to enter mercantile business. He obtained a position as clerk in a general store in Orangeville, Columbia Co., Penn., and in 1845 went into business in Danville, having removed thither in 1837, he having been engaged as clerk during the intervening period. During that time he had saved enough, together with $410 received from his father's estate, to enable him to open a mercantile establishment, and since then he has done a successful trade. He has increased his business from time to time and now also operates in separate stores, groceries and dry goods. By prudent management he has acquired a handsome fortune, and is now one of the oldest merchants in the place. He married, in 1842, Hannah, daughter of Jacob Hefler and of German descent. Six children were born to their union: Martha B., wife of S. T. Lees; Emma A., wife of Lewis E. Woods; Mary Ellen., widow of William Root; Sally; George, a salesman in the store, and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. Laubach are members of the Methodist Church, of which he has been trustee and steward. He is treasurer of the Danville Mutual Insurance Company, a member of the board of trustees of the First National Bank, and also served three years as president of the First National Bank of Danville. In politics he is a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 162 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index W. S. LAWRENCE, superintendent of the Montour Iron and Steel Iron Mines, in Valley Township, Montour County, was born in Danville, Penn., December 20, 1842, son of William T. and Ann (Phillips) Lawrence. His parents were born in Monmouthshire, South Wales. William T. Lawrence, a miner by occupation, was married in Wales in 1839, came to America and settled in Montour County, Penn., where he worked in the iron mines. Of their ten children only two survive, W. S., and Sarah Ann, who is now the wife of Joseph Woodford, of Valley Township. Our subject was reared in Danville, attending the common schools, and at an early age went to work in the old Rough and Ready Mill of that place. At the age of fifteen he commenced to work in the mines, and when twenty-seven years old was appointed foreman. Since 1882 he has served as superintendent of the mines. He was married in 1863 to Rachel, daughter of William Churm, a native of England. This union has been blessed with nine children, eight of them now living-five sons and three daughters. The family have been members of the Baptist Church. In politics Mr. Lawrence is a Republican and he has served nine years as school director in Valley Township. He is the owner of a farm, and all he has acquired has been by his own industry and exertion.(History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania Battle, 1887, pg. 218 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index VICTOR A. LOTIER, editor and proprietor of the Daily and Weekly Record, Danville, was born in the city of New York, December 15, 1843, a son of Benjamin and Anna (Ronk) Lotier; former, who died at the age of sixty-nine years, was a native of this country and of French origin; latter a native of Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and of Dutch origin. Our subject received his early education in Philadelphia, where he remained until fourteen years old. He then came to Danville and worked in the rolling-mill until 1858 when he went to Rhode Island, and in 1862 enlisted in Company E, Third Regiment Rhode Island Cavalry. He was elected commissary sergeant, subsequently promoted to orderly sergeant and was honorably discharged in 1865 at New Orleans. He then went west, where he remained about a year, and, returning to Danville, again worked in the rolling-mills until 1871. At that time he purchased an interest in the Danville Marble Works, was a stockholder in the Record Publishing Company, and subsequently purchased the paper (the Danville Record), which he has since published. This paper is a daily and weekly, and, like its editor, independent in politics. In 1869 Mr. Lotier married Fannie Huhges, who has borne him two children: Homer H. and Walter M. Mrs. Lotier and her son, Walter M., are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. She is a daughter of Peter Hughes, who was at one time associate judge of Montour County, and who established the Danville Marble Works and conducted the marble and stone cutting business in this place for many years. He died in October, 1872. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 162 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) VICTOR A. LOTIER, publisher and editor of the Daily Record and Weekly Record of Danville, Pa., is one of the prominent journalists of Montour County, and a highly respected citizen. He was born in the city of New York, December 15, 1842, and is a son of Benjamin and Anna (Ronk) Lotier. Benjamin Lotier was of French descent and was born in the city of New York, and during his early days was a silver engraver, which business he followed in New York City. Boston, and Philadelphia. He wedded Anna Ronk, a native of Poughkeepsie, N. Y. Our subject's father passed from this life at the age of sixty-nine years. Victor A. Lotier acquired a liberal education in the public schools of Philadelphia and in 1854 moved to Danville where he found employment in the rolling-mills of that town. In 1862 he was in the state of Rhode Island and shortly after his arrival there he enlisted in Company E, 3d Reg., R. I. Cav., and served throughout the Civil War. He was first elected commissary-sergeant but was soon promoted to the rank of orderly sergeant. He received an honorable discharge at New Orleans, La., in 1865, and then spent one year in traveling through the western states. Returning to Danville. Pa., he assumed the duties of his former position in the rolling-mill, remaining until 1871, when he purchased the Danville Marble Works; he also became a stockholder in the Record Publishing Company of that town. April 1, 1878, James Foster, Harry Vincent, and our subject purchased the Danville Record, which was established by A. P. Fowler. The Danville Record was formerly edited by Mr. Brower, and was an independent paper, the first edition having been issued March 16, 1876. When these gentlemen took possession of the paper it was known as the Weekly National Record; later our subject became sole proprietor and the paper was then known as the Weekly Record. May 23, 1881, our subject started the Daily Record which has a good country from which to draw its patronage; it has a circulation of 700 and the weekly-paper about 900 circulation. Mr. Lotier has thoroughly mastered the newspaper business and understands how to conduct a paper. The reading matter of the Daily and Weekly Record is well selected, its editorials are good. and its local news is admirably presented. Mr. Lotier was united in marriage to Fanny Hughes, a daughter of Peter Hughes, and a family of two children blessed their home, namely: Homer H., a resident of Camden, N. J., who married Anna Murphy of Philadelphia; and Walter M., a printer on the Sporting Life of Philadelphia, who is married and has a son, Homer. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 431 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index CAPT. GEORGE LOVETT, Danville, was born in Ireland July 28, 1838, to William and Jane (Johnson) Lovett, natives of Ireland where the father died. Their family consisted of eight children, and in 1852 the widow and four children immigrated to America, settling in Danville, our subject at that time being fourteen years old. He was educated in his native country and in America. He first worked in the rolling-mills at Danville, where he remained several years and served for a time as assistant superintendent. In 1862 he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred Thirty-second Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, was made quartermaster sergeant, and took part in the engagements at South Mountain, Antietam and Fredericksburg. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 162 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JAMES W. LOWRIE, farmer, P. O. Washingtonville, is a grandson of Samuel Lowrie, who with eight brothers and one sister immigrated to this country from Scotland, and settled in various parts of Pennsylvania. Samuel took up a tract where his grandson now resides. He had a family of two sons and three daughters. Samuel, the father of our subject, was born in 1800, where his son now resides, and died in 1857. He was a farmer, and an elder of the Presbyterian Church. His wife, Helen Cole, died in 1886, in her eightieth year. Their children were Elizabeth, Margaret, Rhoda, Newell S. Harriet, Emily, Mary, Agnes, Rebecca, belle and James W. The last named was born April 16, 1841, in the house in which he now resides, but which he has remodeled since it became his property. He worked on the farm until the death of his father when he took charge of the homestead, and conducted it for his mother until 1865. He then bought it from the estate, and has since resided on it. The timber he sold on the ground and his farm is now in a high state of cultivation. In 1868 he married Miss Priscilla, daughter of William Bryson, of Northumberland County. Mrs. Lowrie was born May 10, 1845, and graduated at Muncy Seminary. Eight children were born to their union as follows: Helen C., Ata, Sadie, Hattie B., Mary W., Blanche, Anna and Walter. Mr. Lowrie has held county and township offices, and in every relation of life has discharged his duties in a manner highly creditable. In 1862 he entered the army and served nine months in Company G, One Hundred and Seventy-eighth Regiment, in which he was color bearer, which dangerous service he accepted when a volunteer was called for. He was honorably discharged at the end of his term. Mr. and Mrs. Lowrie are members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is an elder. Politically he is a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 197 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index REV. NEWELL SAMUEL LOWRIEGorham, N.Y. - Born at Jerseytown, Montour county, Pa., Jan. 27, 1832; Sophomore and part of Junior year at Lafayette; Senior at Jefferson College, where he graduated in '58; studied theology at Western Theological Seminary, '58-'60, and at Princeton, '60-1; preached at Conneautville seven years, and since '68 at Gorham, Ontario county, N.Y (Record of the Men of Lafayette: Brief Biographical Sketches of the Alumni of Lafayette College from Its Organization to the Present Time, By Selden Jennings Coffin, William Baxter Owen, Lafayette College (Easton, Pa.) Published by The College, 1879, pg. 212 Contributed by Vicki Hartman) Back to Index WILLIAM H. MAGILL, retired physician and surgeon, of Danville, is the oldest physician in this part of the State. He was born in Montgomery County, Penn., March 24, 1795, son of William and Mary (Dunlap) Magill. Their ancestors were among the early settlers of Pennsylvania. William Magill, Sr., father of our subject, was a tanner, and became a land owner and farmer; he was a Quaker, as was his wife, and his ancestors were Scotch-Irish Presbyterians. William and Mary Magill had six children; William H., our subject, was the third child. At the age of twelve years he entered the Doylestown Academy, in Bucks County, Penn., from there he went to Baltimore, Md., and read medicine with James Smith, M. D., four years, and graduated from the Medical University of Baltimore, in 1817. He then attended lectures at Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia until the spring of 1818, when he began the practice of medicine in Danville, opening an office in the same house where he now resides. This house is of brick, erected by his mother in 1814, the family having moved here in the spring of that year. When Dr. Magill began the practice of medicine Danville was a small place, and houses in this vicinity were few and far between. Dr. Magill was a man of more than ordinary ability and skill, and possessed wonderful powers of endurance. He rode on horseback over a large scope of country, day and night, enduring hardships, and surmounting difficulties that the doctors of this day know nothing of. He married, May 1, 1828, Miss Mary, daughter of Gen. Daniel Montgomery. This union has been blessed with eight children, viz.; Daniel, Elizabeth, William H., Hannah L., Robert D., Christiana M., Mary D. and James D., six of whom lived to be grown. Mrs. Magill died in 1882; she was an earnest Christian and a member of the Presbyterian Church; Dr. Magill is also a member of this church. He was the first burgess of Danville; in politics he was a Whig, but since the organization of the Republican party he has been one of its strong supporters. His name will be revered not only for his professional skill and honor, but for his deeds of charity and Christian example. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 164 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index A. J. MAUS, farmer, P. O. Danville, was born in Montour County, Penn., September 15, 1831, a son of Lewis and Catherine (Baughman) Maus, whose paternal and maternal ancestors were among the earliest settlers of Pennsylvania. His maternal grandfather was a soldier in the Revolution, and the gun carried by him all through that struggle is in possession of our subject. His father, Lewis Maus, ran the first keel-bottom boat on the Susquehanna, and bought an extensive tract of land in Valley Township, which was then a wilderness. A. J. is the youngest in a family of ten children, nine of whom grew to maturity; was reared in Valley Township and has farmed most of his life. Since 1879 he has acted as agent for Walter A. Wood, of Hoosick Falls, N. Y., manufacturer of reapers and binders, and this is at present his principal business. In 1847 he married Harriet Billmeyer. Their children are Maggie, wife of Orin Kimerer; Matthew, in the employ of the Walter A. Wood Mowing & Reaping Machine Company, of New York, and at present in South America; Ida, wife of H. H. Southwick; Harry and Edna. Mr. and Mrs. MAUS are members of the Episcopal Church.(History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 218 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index PHILIP E. MAUS, bookkeeper and business manager for his father, Philip F. Maus, was born May 22, 1852, and is the only surviving member of the family. His mother, whose maiden name was Sarah Gallagher, was born in Lycoming County, Penn.; was of Scotch-Irish and German origin. His father was born in what is now Valley Township, made milling and farming his business, and succeeded in amassing a handsome fortune. His birth occurred in 1810, a son of Joseph Maus, who was a soldier in the Revolution, serving under Washington at Valley Forge. The great grandfather of our subject was Philip Maus, who was among the earliest German settlers here. Philip E. attended school in Danville, and also the Tuscarora Academy and Chambersburg Academy. He commenced business first as a lumber dealer, but, on account of his father's health, came home to assist the latter in his business. In 1878 he married Mary R. Leinbach, of German descent, and a daughter of John B., a farmer of Northumberland County. Politically Mr. Maus is a Republican.(History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 218 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index AARON C. MAUSER, farmer, P. O. Danville, was born on the old homestead where he now lives, July 21, 1849, son of Jacob and Catharine (Krum) Mauser, both natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent. His great-grandfather, Nicholas Mauser, settled in what is now Cooper Township, this county, in 1785, and bought a large tract of timber land. The deed is one hundred and twelve years old, and was bought from George Miller, who had just received it from William Penn. His grandfather, Christian Mauser, was fourteen years of age when his parents moved to this place, and he remained on this farm all his life; he died at the age of eighty-eight years. The "little old log cabin: that our subject's great-grandfather built, is yet standing, and Aaron KC. can boast of having put a roof on the house that his great-grandfather built. He has a clock which was made in 1801, and also the old gun that his great-grandfather used in the Revolutionary war. Our subject's father was born on this farm, and remained here all his life. He died in his fiftieth year. Aaron C. is of the fourth generation that has lived on and owned this farm, one of the first settled in this county. He now owns 183 acres of land. He was married March 28, 1874, to Ellen Keiffer, and they are the parents of four children: Lydia, Edda, Lizzie and Ellen. Mr. and Mrs. Mauser are members of the Lutheran Church and are also members of the Grange. He has held the offices of constable, auditor, assessor, supervisor and collector. In politics he is a full-blooded Democrat.(History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 192 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JONATHAN S. McBRIDE was born July 2, 1842, in the village of white Hall, this county, son of William and Mary Ann (Smith) McBride. He has always lived in White Hall, and since a boy has been in the store of his father. In the spring of 1866 he formed a co-partnership with his father which continued until 1884, when he conducted the whole business and owns the stock himself. The store is the only one in White Hall at present. Mr. McBride married, December 6, 1864, Miss Abbie Carnahan, daughter of A. J. and Elizabeth Carnahan, now in Illinois, and they have four children: Elmer, Lizzie, Mary B. and Harry C. Mr. McBride is a member of the I. O. O. F., and is postmaster in White Hall. In politics he is a Democrat. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania Battle, 1887, pg. 185 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index WILLIAM McBRIDE, farmer, P. O. White Hall, was born in Derry Township, Montour Co., Penn., February 5, 1812, a son of James and Mary (Derr) McBride. James McBride was a young man when he came to Montour County. He was a carpenter, and when he arrived in the county, located at Fruitstown (now known as White Hall), and followed that trade here until his death. He was married in this county to Miss Mary Derr, a native of Montour County, and a member of an old settler's family. Mr. and Mrs. James McBride were the parents of seven children, of whom three are living: Eliza, widow of Thomas Chamberlain, in Lafayette County, Wis.; Margaret, widow of Evan Hendershott, in Lenawee County, Mich., and William. Mollie, Frederick, Hugh and Jane are buried in the Derry Presbyterian graveyard. William McBride, subject of this sketch, has resided all his life at the place of his birth. When he was fourteen years of age he commenced to clerk in the store of his uncle, John F. Derr, and remained with him in that capacity until 1841. He then entered into partnership with his uncle, and this business relationship continued until 1855, when, his uncle dying, Mr. McBride became exclusive proprietor of the store, and so remained about eleven years, when he took in his son, J. S., as partner. The firm was so continued until 1884, when the father retired from his interest in the store, and since that time the son has conducted the business alone. Mr. McBride married, in Lycoming County, Penn., April 1, 1841, Miss Mary Ann Smith, a native of Lycoming County, and daughter of Jonathan and Anna Smith. She died June 29, 1885, and is buried in the White Hall graveyard. By this marriage there were seven children, of whom six are living: J. S., married to Miss Abbie Carnahan, at White Hall; Mary, wife of Jacob Kreamer, in Anthony Township, this county; Sarah Ann, wife of William Moore, also in Anthony Township; Maggie; Emma, wife of David Harman, in Hazleton, Luzerne Co., Penn., and William. An infant unnamed is deceased. Mr. McBride is a member of the Baptist Church, as was also his wife. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 185 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index COL. JAMES McCORMICK, retired, Danville, owner and controller of the 'bus line, was born in Montour County, Penn., June 26, 1818, a son of William A. and Margaret (Shaw) McCormick. His father was born in Ireland of Scotch parents; his mother was a native of Dauphin County, Penn., and of Scotch-Irish origin, and both were Presbyterians. The father came to Pennsylvania when a mere lad, entered a store as clerk and very naturally took up the business of merchandising. He moved to Columbia County at an early day and settled at Washingtonville. He and his wife were the parents of three sons and one daughter: William A., a physician now in Virginia; second and third were twins; our subject and David M., who died in Harrisburg, Penn., in 1873, a successful business man, being worth about $100,000. Our subject was reared in Montour County, Penn., receiving his education in the common schools of the county. In early life he clerked in various stores at Milton and Danville and after a few years drifted into business himself. He opened a general store at Washingtonville, where, in company with his brother, he did a successful business. Later they sold out and bought a store at Limestoneville, this county, and engaged in business for four years, when they again sold out and moved to Schuylkill County. There they followed mining and shipping anthracite coal, which business they also sold. Our subject then came to Danville and embarked in mercantile business, also running the state lines from Danville until the railroad was built. Since then he has conducted a 'bus line and has retired from all other business. He married in 1848, Agnes M., daughter of John Franciscus, and of German and French origin. They have three children: William J., a manufacturer in Philadelphia; Maggie and Katie. Mrs. McCormick and daughter are members of the Presbyterian Church. Col. McCormick is a Democrat and has served two terms in the Legislature, appointed by the State. At the last senatorial conference (1886), for the Twenty-fourth District, he was the nominee from the county convention of this county. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 163 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index T. F. McGINNES, general superintendent of the Montour Iron and Steel Works, Danville, was born in the city of Pottsville, Schuylkill Co., Penn., March 2, 1842, a son of E. W. and Eliza (Patton) McGinnes, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch origin. In early life the father was engaged in manufacturing, but later in the coal trade in which he dealt largely. Our subject is the fourth of eight children, and grew to manhood in his native city, where he attended the graded schools and also clerked for his father. With the latter he then engaged in the same business, which they conducted successfully for a time, when our subject abandoned the business to accept a clerkship in one of the large manufacturing establishments of the place. There he remained ten years, when he was appointed superintendent of an iron manufactory in Schuylkill County, where he served until 1880. He then came to Danville and was employed in the Montour Iron and Steel Works as inspector of iron rails until 1882, when he was appointed superintendent. In 1885 he was made treasurer and in 1886 general superintendent of the works. This extensive company often employ as many as 2,700 men; so that the position of general superintendent is one of great responsibility. Mr. McGinnes was married in 1863, to Kate Berryman, a lady of English origin, daughter of Dr. Cecil Berryman, a prominent physician of Pottsville, Penn. She is the mother of one child, Jennie. Mr. and Mrs. McGinnes are members of the Episcopal Church, in which he takes a deep interest; has served as member of the vestry, and is now superintendent of the Mission Sunday-school in Danville. Politically he is a Republican, but has never held office. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 163 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index DR. MONTRAVILLE McHENRY, Exchange, was born near Rohrsburg, Columbia Co., Penn., January 13, 1836. He is the eldest son of Benjamin and Lavina (Coner) McHenry. The former resides in Benton, Columbia Co., Penn., and is of Irish descent; the latter died in 1884, and is buried in the Benton Cemetery. They were the parents of seven sons and two daughters. One daughter and six sons are living, prosperous and respected citizens of the communities in which they live. Our subject spent his early life on the farm, attending school during the winters, until he was twenty years of age. He afterward attended the Millville Seminary, and the academy at New Columbus several summers, teaching school during the winters. In 1864 he commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Barrett, of Cambra, Luzerne Co., Penn. He took his first course of lectures at the Medical College of Burlington, Vt., a second at Ann Arbor University, Mich., and a part of a third at Burlington, where he graduated. He was soon afterward married to Mrs. Dorcas Freece Lyons, nee Fowler, of Pine Summit, Columbia Co., Penn. Dr. McHenry commenced the practice of medicine in Exchange, Montour County, in 1868. Not finding a house to rent and wishing to enjoy the comforts of a home, he immediately purchased two acres of land adjoining the village, and erected a good two-story house. He also built a barn and planted fruit and ornamental trees, making a pleasant and comfortable home. He attended closely to business and soon had plenty of patients. He was seldom absent more than a day at a time until 1876, when, with his wife, daughter and step-son he spent two weeks at the Centennial Exposition, at Philadelphia. In the spring of 1878, accompanied by his wife and daughter, Birdie, he started on a tour through the Eastern and Middle States, stopping at all the principal cities and summer resorts. They first went to Philadelphia, Long Branch and New York; thence up the Hudson to Troy; thence to Rutland and Burlington, Vt., where they remained several weeks, enjoying the beautiful scenery. The Doctor also attended lectures while in Burlington. They visited the White Mountains, Old Orchard Beach, Portland, Boston, Newport, New Haven, Saratoga, Ticonderoga, Niagra Falls, Canada, Rochester and Watkin's Glen; thence home by way of Elmira, Minnequa Spring and Williamsport, having made a pleasant trip through nine States. Thinking he could better his prospects by locating in Kansas or Missouri, in the fall of 1878 he sold his property in Exchange, and in the spring of 1879, accompanied by his family, he visited the West with the intention of locating if he could find a suitable place. To make the trip one of pleasure as well as business, they went by way of Philadelphia, Wilmington, Baltimore, Washington, White Sulphur Springs, Cincinnati, St. Louis, Kansas City and Carthage City, Mo., traveling only by day and spending several days in places of interest. One of the most interesting places visited was the Osage Agency in the Indian Territory. The large swarthy Indians, with painted faces, ears slitted and full of rings, door keys and other trinkets, heads partly shaven, no clothing but a breech cloth and a bright red and blue blanket, made a picture that will long be remembered, especially by Birdie, who was then nearly nine years old. The Doctor bought two white ponies from the Indians, giving one to his wife and the other to Birdie. These ponies are still the pets of the family. After traveling hundreds of miles over the prairie, and visiting many towns without finding a place they would like to make their home, they returned to Pennsylvania, stopping for a few days in Chicago, Cleveland and Erie, Penn. Dr. McHenry remained in Bloomsburg in the fall and winter, and in the spring returned to Exchange. He bought fifteen acres of land adjoining his former home, and erected a handsome structure with bay and dormer windows, verandas, gables and tower, from which can be seen many miles of the surrounding country; he built a good barn and planted over 100 evergreen trees on the lawn surroundin Douglas, a side heir, who came into possession through the lapse of time. Mrs. McHenry was born April 5, 1837, near Fowlersville, Columbia Co., Penn., receiving her education in the public school. She was married in her nineteenth year, to Robert J. Lyons, of Lycoming county, eldest son of Joseph and Sarah Lyons, now deceased. Mr. Lyons owned a large farm at Pine Summit, Columbia County, where they resided until 1865, when he joined the Union Army, in Company I, Seventy-seventh P. V. V., and died in the service at Victoria, Tex., October 21, 1865, and was buried in Victoria Cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. Lyons had one son living, Fowler Lyons, born January 17, 1861, at Pine Summit. After Mrs. Lyons' marriage to Dr. McHenry her son lived with them at Exchange. He attended the public schools, the normal school at Muncy, Penn., and Eastman College, at Poughkeepsie, N. N. He also studied medicine with the intention of engaging in pharmacy, but after assisting in a drug store for a time, and looking for a place to locate, he decided not to engage in the business. At the age of twenty-two he was married to Martha E., daughter of Hon. John C. Ellis, of Exchange, now deceased, and Jane, his wife. He then removed to the farm his father had left him at Pine Summit, purchased stock, hired help and went to farming in good spirit. But the farm was too large, and had been rented for eighteen years, consequently it was not in the flourishing condition his father had left it, and he decided to sell it and try his fortune in the West. He sold his farm to his uncle, Jerry Fowler, his stock, farming implements, household goods, etc., at public sale, and went to Texas. After traveling over the greater part of the State he purchased property in Wichita Falls, Tex. A few months afterward his wife was taken very sick with fever, and the climate being so much warmer than she was accustomed to, her recovery was slow. Fearing she could not stand the heat another summer they returned to Pennsylvania, and after a few months went to Nebraska and settled in Dawes County, where Mr. Lyons owns 460 acres of land his farm he is improving with the intention of making it a stock farm in the future. He retains his property in Wichita Falls, Tex., and expects it to become valuable in a few years, as it has every prospect of becoming a large and prosperous city. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania Battle, 1887, pg. 186 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JACKSON P. McKEE, farmer, P. O. Comly, was born in the place where he now resides in Anthony Township, Montour Co., Penn., October 12, 1830, son of James and Harriet (Scout) McKee, the latter a native of this county. Robert McKee, grandfather of our subject, came to what is now Montour County in 1794, and located about a mile up the creek from Exchange, afterward moving to the place where Jackson P. now resides, and here lived until his death. He was married to Agnes CRAIG, and died in 1832, his widow surviving him about four years; they are buried at the Derry Presbyterian Church. They had four children of whom only one, James, was married. Robert McKee served in the Revolutionary war. James McKee, father of our subject, was born in Chester County, Penn., and was the third in order of age of the children of Robert McKee. He was eight years of age when the family came to this county, and when he grew up, his father, brothers and himself bought between 400 and 500 acres of land, of which J. P. now owns 195 acres. They found this land covered with a heavy growth of oak timber, and struck the first ax into the improvement of this land, and put up a log cabin on this place with the timber they had cut down in making the first clearing. James McKee died March 29, 1863, his wife having died in 1832. They were the parents of eleven children, of whom only two are living: James and Jackson P.; the latter being the only one in this county. Our subject was married February 2, 1863, to Margaret Ellen, daughter of David Wilson, also a member of an early settler family, and who is now living in Anthony Township, this county. Mr. McKee learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed one year. He was general agent for the Buckeye reaper when it first came out, and followed that business three or four years, having entire control of their agents during that time. He was in Kankakee County, Ill., fifteen months, and there owned land at that time. Mr. McKee's home is situated on Muncy Hill, and it presents the finest view in Pennsylvania, the valleys in Snyder, Union, Northumberland, Columbia, Lycoming, Sullivan and Montour Counties being visible from his place. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 187 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index THOMAS M. McMAHAN, photographer, Danville, was born in Montour County March 19, 1829, a son of James and Margaret (Murry) McMahan, natives of Pennsylvania and of Scotch-Irish origin, the former a farmer. Thomas M. is the fourth in a family of five children, was reared on the farm in Liberty Township, educated in the common schools, and for several years followed agricultural pursuits. In 1853 he began to learn the art of photography, which has since occupied his attention. He worked at different places until 1865, when he settled in Danville, and since 1871 has been associated in the business with Mr. Ireland, under the firm name of McMahan & Ireland, and the success of the business is largely due to his exertions. In 1854 he married Caroline Reed, of Scotch-Irish origin, and two children have blessed the union: Clarence and Lillian E. Mr. and Mrs. McMahan are members of the Presbyterian Church, and politically he is a Democrat. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 163 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index WILLIAM McMAHON, P. O. Pott's Grove, Northumberland Co., Penn., was born on the farm where he now resides, March 22, 1832, son of John and Mary (Simigton) McMahon. His great-grandfather was a native of the North of Ireland, immigrated to America, and settled in the valley of the Juniata River, Penn. John McMahon, grandfather of our subject, became an officer in the patriot army during the Revolution, serving through that struggle. After the war he came from the valley of the Juniata, to what is now Montour County, Penn., and took up land around where William now resides. He and his wife are both deceased, and are buried in the Chillisquaque graveyard. John McMahon, father of our subject, was born in the latter part of the last century on the old homestead of his father, in what is now Montour County, and was here reared. He was married about 1826 to Mary Simington, and they were the parents of seven children: Robert, in Potts's Grove, Penn.; Jane, deceased wife of Alexander Clark; William; Elizabeth S., wife of John Durham, in Winona, Minn.; John S., in Wellington, Kas.; Sarah S., wife of Joseph K. Murray, in Liberty Township, this county, and Thomas, in Wellington, Kas. The father of the above died about 1852, and the mother about 1845. They are buried in the Chillisquaque Cemetery. The subject of this sketch was married January 20, 1862, to Miss Selina Mack, a native of Turbot Township, Northumberland Co., Penn., and daughter of Robert and Mary Ann (McFall) Mack, former of whom died September 28, 1884, and is buried in the Harmony Cemetery; latter now resides in Liberty Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. McMahon are the parents of six children: Anna Mary, Charles H., Elizabeth S., Robert Mack, Lucy H. and John Adams. The parents are members of the Chillisquaque Presbyterian Church, in which Mr. McMahon has been elder since about 1874. He has been connected with the schools of Liberty Township as director since 1877. He has 170 acres of land, being the entire old homestead, and also 160 acres on Montour Ridge. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 200 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index WILLIAM McNINCH, farmer and quarryman, P. O. Grovania, was born in Northumberland County, Penn., September 30, 1826, a son of James and Jane (McCord) McNinch, natives of Montour County, and of Scotch-Irish descent. His grandfather, James McNinch, came from Scotland and settled in this county in 1766, being among the very first settlers of this section. He took up a large tract of land, where he lived and farmed until his death. The land was all timber, and wild animals were still plenty. Their nearest market was Northumberland. Our subject's grandfather, Joseph McCord, also a farmer, came from Ireland and settled here about the same time. He served in the Revolutionary war, and was a man noted for his military ability. Our subject's father was reared on a farm, and moved to Cooper Township, this county, in 1845, where he bought the farm on which William now lives, and remained here until his death, which occurred in March, 1855. He was the father of nine children, four now living: Mary, in Catawissa, Columbia Co., Penn.; William; James, in Kansas; and Emily, also in Catawissa. James McNinch was a lifelong Democrat. Our subject was reared on a farm, and remained with his parents until their death, after which he took the homestead, which he has since farmed. In 1861 he opened a stone quarry, and built lime-kilns in Cooper township, on the Bloomsburg road, and has had them in operation ever since, manufacturing a good quality of lime. He was married February 17, 1859, to Rachel Deitrich, and they are the parents of six children: Warren, in Helena, Mont.; Annatta; Hugh, at school in Lawrenceville, N. J.; Martha, Joseph and Elizabeth. Mr. and Mrs. McNinch are members of the Presbyterian Church at Bloomsburg. In 1858 he was elected county commissioner, serving one term of three years. In 1863 he was elected county treasurer, serving one term. He has been justice of the peace ten years, and has held nearly all of the township offices. In politics he is a Democrat.(History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 191 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JOHN R. McVICKER, the youngest son of William and Mary (Craig) McVicker, was born in this township, September 25, 1851, and was reared in the township where he now resides. He was brought up to farm life, and makes his home with his brother, Wilson C. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 188 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index WILLIAM McVICKER, retired, P. O. White Hall, was born in what is now Anthony Township, Montour Co., Penn., April 21, 1814, son of James and Sarah (Miller) McVicker. William McVicker, the grandfather of our subject, was born in Ireland, immigrated to America, and located in Northampton County, Penn., whence he came to what is now Anthony Township, this county, and bought 120 acres of land, to which he afterward added more. He found two acres of this land, only, cleared. He lived on this place until he died. He was born April 3, 1733, and died in 1808; his wife, whose maiden name was Eleanor Nelson, had preceded him in death. They are buried in the Derry Presbyterian Church graveyard. He (the grandfather) was a shoemaker by occupation, and our subject has some of his tools in his possession. James McVicker, father of our subject was born in 1790, in Northampton county, Penn., and was but a child when his parents came to this county. He was married in this county to Miss Sarah Miller, and they were the parents of twelve children--six sons and six daughters--two surviving: Rebecca, wife of J. K. Shultz, in Derry Township, and William. The father died in March 1869; his wife died in February, 1862. William McVicker, subject of this sketch, was married in this county, March 2, 1841, to Miss Mary Craig, daughter of Samuel and Jane (Miller) Craig, natives of Pennsylvania and early settlers in Montour County, whence they removed in 1820, to Clarke County, Ohio, where Mrs. McVicker was born. Both her parents died there and are buried in the Muddy Run Cemetery, in Clarke County. Mr. and Mrs. McVicker were the parents of six children, of whom four are living: Samuel Craig, at Watsontown, Penn.; Wilson C.; Sarah E., widow of James Schooley, in White Deer Valley, Northumberland Co., Penn.; John R., in Anthony Township, this county; Emma Jane and Mary Luella are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. McVicker are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. McVicker has sixty-five acres of land in Anthony Township. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 188 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index WILSON C. McVICKER was born within one-half a mile of where he now resides, and has always made his home in this township. He bought his present farm of seventy-four acres in the spring of 1868. He also has a wood lot in Columbia County of fourteen and one-half acres. He was married in Montour County, February 4, 1868, to Miss Ada M., a native of Bradford County, and a daughter of James and Margaret Pickard; former deceased and buried in Bradford Cemetery; latter makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. McVicker. Mr. and Mrs. McVicker are the parents of one child, Laura Alice. They are members of Derry Presbyterian Church. Mr. McVicker is a member of Exchange Grange, No. 65, P. of H. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 188 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index JAMES C. McWILLIAMS, farmer, P. O. Mooresburg, was born in Liberty Township, Montour Co., Penn., May 9, 1841, son of John and Margaret (Caldwell) McWilliams. John McWilliams, father of our subject, was born October 7, 1807, in this township, and here reared to manhood. He was married in this county in March, 1835, to Miss Margaret Caldwell, born December 8, 1816, daughter of James and Mary (Woods) Caldwell, who were married June 12, 1810, the former of whom was born in Ireland, and when two years of age came to America, locating in Pennsylvania; the latter was of Scotch-Irish descent. Mr. and Mrs. James Caldwell were the parents of six children: Robert (deceased); John (deceased); Margaret; Samuel, in Watsontown, Penn.; James Rodgers, near Trenton, N. J. and Lazerus Finney (deceased); James Caldwell, father of the above, died December 25, 1826; his second wife, whose maiden name was Eleanor Woods, died June 4, 1865. They are buried in the McEwensville Cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. John McWilliams are the parents of four children: Mary Ellen, deceased wife of H. B. Kimble, Newark, N. J., in business on Canal Street, New York; James C.; Robert Curry, in Northumberland County, Penn., (he has represented that county in the Pennsylvania General Assembly), and J. Woods, in New York, engaged with the Manhattan Railway. John McWilliams, father of the above, died August 7, 1876, and is buried in the Milton Cemetery. His widow resides at Milton, Penn. James C. McWilliams, subject of this sketch, was reared in Liberty Township, which he has always made his home. He was married here January 26, 1871, to Miss Elizabeth J., daughter of Judge James and Christina (Yorks) Curry, of Valley Township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. McWilliams are the parents of two children: John Curry and Mary Estella. All the family are members of the Presbyterian Church at Mooresburg, in the building of which they were instrumental. Mr. McWilliams is a member of Catawissa Lodge, No. 349, at Catawissa; a member of Bloomsburg Chapter. He has a farm of 230 acres adjoining the old homestead, which belongs to his mother, and which contains 260 acres. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 200 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark) Back to Index