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WILSON METTLER, retired farmer, Danville, was born in Rush Township, Northumberland
Co., Penn., May 10, 1813, a son of Philip and Susanna (Carter) Mettler. His parents were natives of New Jersey,
of English and German origin respectively. The father was a farmer, and died in Northumberland County in 1856.
His family consisted of nine children, of whom Wilson was the fifth. He was reared on the farm and educated at
the schools of Rush Township. From his youth until 1868 he had been engaged in agricultural pursuits, but at the
last named date retired, and has since resided in Danville, but still owns the farm, which is well improved. He
married, in 1834, Miss Ann, daughter of John Gearhart, of New Jersey and of German origin. This union has been
blessed with four children: Sarah E., wife of E. G. Huffman; Susan, wife of Hugh Vastine; Spencer C. (deceased)
and Anna. Mr. and Mrs. Mettler are members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he has been elder. Politically
he is a Democrat and has served in the capacity of school director of Rush Township. (History of Columbia and
Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 164 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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ELIAS SWARTZ MILLER, superintendent of the Danville Water Works, which is one
of Danville's latest and most successful improvements, is recognized as one of the valued residents of that borough,
and is held in high esteem by his fellow-citizens. He was born in Danville borough, November 11, 1844, and is a
son of William G. and Martha (Walker) Miller, and a grandson of George Miller. George Miller, the grandfather of
our subject, was born in Lancaster County, Pa. His father, whose name is unknown to the present generation, located
in that county at an early date, being the first sheriff of the county. George Miller learned the trade of a gunsmith;
he purchased a residence and shop where the opera-house now stands, and there followed his chosen occupation until
his death in 1842, at the age of sixty-five years. He was united in marriage with Sarah B. Myers, and they became
the parents of nine children, namely: John, Elizabeth, William G., Margaret, Levi, Mary, George, Julia Ann, and
Jacob H. The grandmother of our subject passed from this life at the age of eighty-five years. William G. Miller,
the father of our subject, was born in Lancaster, Pa., and his boyhood days were spent in his father's gunshop,
where he learned the trade of a gunsmith, which occupation he followed in Danville all his life. He built a neat
little home, which is now the home of Mrs. Rebecca Hess. Mr. Miller was wedded to Martha Walker, a daughter of
Robert Walker and a native of County Derry, Ireland. As a result of this union the following children were born,
ten of whom are now living: Sarah B.; Robert C; William H.; Joseph W.; Elias Swartz, our subject; Mary Jane; Luther,
deceased; James S.; Maria B.; Martha A.; Isabella B.; and Emma. Mr. Miller departed from this life in 1882, aged
seventy-three years and six months; his wife died at the age of seventy-seven years. Elias Swartz Miller acquired
a good education in the public schools and then worked in the gun-shop owned by his father until his eyes failed
him. He then worked at various jobs until the water works was established in 1873 when he was appointed assistant
superintendent. In 1883 he was appointed superintendent, which position he held until 1889, when he began to work
as a mechanic in the nail mills of that town. In 1891 he returned to his former position as superintendent of the
water works and has since filled that responsible position to the entire satisfaction of his superior officers
and the citizens of Danville. Up to 1872 Danville had only wells and springs with which to supply water, but in
that year a committee composed of the following gentlemen was appointed to thoroughly investigate various water-supply
systems: George W. Wray, J. W. Sweisfort, William Buckley, and M. D. L. Sechler. These gentlemen decided upon the
Holly Company's system, and accordingly, in 1878 or 1879, a large tank, 50 feet long, 7 1/2 feet wide, and 10 feet
deep, was sunk in the Susquehanna River. In 1884 another tank with the following dimensions, 46 feet long, 7 1/2
feet wide, and 7 1/2 feet deep, was sunk, and the water is pumped from these tanks into a Morrison-Jewell Filter.
The works also has a storage tank with a capacity of 98,000 gallons of filtered water. In the engine-room are three
Worthington pumps, two of which pump the water from the two large tanks into a receiving tank, and the third pumps
the water through the pipes into all parts of the borough. There are 1,600 hydrants for family use; 106 double
fire hydrants; and the D., L. & W. R. R. and a number of manufacturing plants are also supplied with wter.
The officers of the Water Works Company are: R. K. Polk, president; F. C. Angle and C. P. Harder, commissioners;
E. S. Miller, superintendent; Jacob Byerly and Angus Wright, engineers; E. E. Bell and George Holligan, firemen.
Mr. Miller was united in the bonds of matrimony with Esther R. Barr, a daughter of Washington P. Barr of Danville.
She died at the age of twenty-seven years, leaving one child, Laura M. Our subject formed a second marital union
with Sarah C. Foust, a daughter of Daniel Foust of Mahoning township, Montour County. He is a member and past master
of Mahoning Lodge No. 516, F. & A. M.: past high priest of Danville Chapter No. 239, H. R. A.; and past eminent
commander of Calvary Commandery No. 37, K. T. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District
Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 730 Transcribed by Tammy
L. Clark)
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JAMES N. MILLER, liveryman, Danville, was born in Columbia County, Penn., September
6, 1824, a son of Philip (a farmer) and Frances (Ready) Miller, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent,
former of whom died in Columbia County, where he has resided many years and reared a family of seven children.
Our subject was reared on the farm, attended the schools of his native place and early in life learned the tanner's
trade, which he followed eight years. He then established himself in a general store at Jerseytown, was moderately
successful and continued that business eleven years, having previously been engaged in the hotel business at Lewisburg
and Jerseytown. In 1876 he was nominated and elected sheriff of Montour County on the Democratic ticket. He then
moved to Danville where he has since resided, and, at the close of his term as sheriff, embarked in the livery
business. Mr. Miller is a Democrat and always takes an active interest in everything pertaining to that party in
Montour County. He has been twice married; first to Susannah, daughter of John Rishel. She was of German origin
and died in 1852, the mother of one child, John, who is now married and a farmer. In 1855 our subject married Isabella,
daughter of Samuel Hiltert, also of German descent, and a member of the Presbyterian Church. This union was blessed
with one child, Sue F., who, since her mother's death, in 1873, has kept house for her father. (History of Columbia
and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 164 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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DAN MORGAN, P. O. Pott's Grove, was born in Aberystwyth Parish, South Wales,
March 5, 1824, a son of William and Jane (Seer) Morgan. The former was a skilled iron worker in the old country,
overseeing a number of hands there. About 1839 or 1840 he came to America, and became engaged in the Mount Savage
Iron Works, Maryland. The firm conducting these works soon failed, and he moved northward to Juniata, and, there
engaged in a tannery. While there he sent for his family who came out in 1844. He remained at Juniata until September
1845, and then engaged in the iron works of the Montour Iron Company, Danville, where he remained until his death,
which occurred March 16, 1851; his widow survived him until January 10, 1856. They are buried in the Methodist
Cemetery, Danville. They were the parents of the following named children: William; Mary Ann was the wife of James
Williams; Thomas; Dan; Jane was the wife of Benjamin Harris; Esther was the wife of Michael Graham, and Gad, all
deceased except Dan. The subject of this sketch remained with his parents until 1845, when he left the home at
Juniata, and coming to Danville engaged in the Montour Iron Works. In 1851 he became superintendent of the blast
furnace for this company, and held that position until 1883, and part of the time he was general superintendent
of the entire plant, except the mines. In 1867 he entered the company as a member, and held an interest in the
works until 1878, when he withdrew his membership, but still retained his position in the works as general superintendent.
He then bought 287 acres of land in Liberty Township, this county, to which he has since added until he now has
three farms containing 417 acres, all three places being supplied with the best of farm houses and buildings. In
1877 he came to his farm property and resided on it until 1879, when he went back to Danville, but after residing
there until 1881, returned to the farm to make his permanent residence. Mr. Morgan was married December 16, 1849,
to Mary Jane, daughter of William and Mary (Merrill) Ephlin, and a native of New Jersey. Mr. and Mrs. Morgan were
the parents of eight children, of whom five are living: William G., married too Ida A. Savage, August 16, 1871
(they have three children, Jennie, Dan and Joe--he was superintendent one year of the Waterman & Co. furnace
in 1877); Joseph Henry, married to Bella James, April 12, 1885; John Peter, killed June 25, 1864, at the swing
bridge, Danville; George Burlingame, married March 17, 1883, to Ella Gabriel (they have one child, Laura); Dan
died April 2, 1861; Robert Seer; James D., died March 10, 1869; and John. Mr. MORGAN is a member of the Masonic
fraternity, having joined the Blue Lodge with 224 others at Danville. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties
Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887 pg. 201 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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ANGUS MORRISON, deceased farmer, was born in Washington County, Me., September
21, 1834, son of Peter and Jane (McKskell) Morrison, former born in Scotland, latter in North Carolina, of Scotch
descent. His father died in 1880, in his eighty-seventy year; his mother died several years previous to his father.
Our Subject was reared on a farm and remained at home until twenty-one years of age. Then he moved to San Francisco,
where he remained a short time; then located in Shasta County, Cal., where he bought a farm and remained six years.
He then sold out and removed to Nevada in 1861, locating in Humboldt County, where he was engaged in quartz mining
and milling for about twenty years. He remained in this county until the spring of 1881. He was a member of the
Nevada Legislature for one session. In 1881 he moved to Idaho, and there remained until the fall of 1883, engaged
in mercantile business. He came to Pennsylvania in the fall of 1883, and purchased a farm of 157 acres of good
land. Mr. Morrison was married December 25, 1879, in San Francisco, to Laura Richardson Wells, and they are the
parents of three children: Emily F., Catharine J. and Mary H. Mr. Morrison died January 12, 1887.(History of
Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 192 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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HARMON S. MORRISON, farmer and stock grower, P. O. Danville, was born in
Mahoning Township, September 12, 1827, a son of Edward and Elizabeth (Sechler) Morrison, the latter a native of
Mahoning Township. His father, a native of New Jersey, was born September 19, 1791, and at the age of twelve years
came to Mahoning Township, and by occupation was a farmer and cooper. He was a soldier of the war of 1812, and
his death occurred in 1868. Harmon S. is the sixth in a family of nine children, was reared in his native township
on the far, and attended the common schools. At the age of eighteen he began to learn the mason's trade, at which
he served a three years' apprenticeship, and made the trade his occupation for twenty years, engaging also in farming.
In 1870 he was appointed foreman of the construction of the brick and stone works at the State asylum near Danville,
which position he yet holds, and also superintends his farm which is situated near by. In 1850 he married Martha
Ickes, of German-Irish origin, and a daughter of Michael Ickes, of Snyder County, Penn., and they became the parents
of four children: Margaret, John, Eugene and William. John having lost his wife lives with his father with two
children (twins): Walter and Harmon S. Mrs. Morrison's death occurred February 7, 1887, aged fifty-eight years.
She was a Christian woman being a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Morrison and all the children are members
of the Lutheran Church, in which he is an elder. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and a member of order
of P. of H., and politically is a Republican. Edward Morrison, the grandfather of our subject, and Sarah Lucas,
his wife (the latter a Quakeress), were born in the same year, 1753, were married in 1775 and lived in the State
of New Jersey where all their children (three sons: William, John and Edward, and two daughters, Anna and Sarah)
were born. The maternal grandfather of our subject, Joseph Sechler, and his wife, Elizabeth, whose maiden name
was Stump, came from Montgomery County, Penn., over 100 years ago to the town of Northumberland. When Danville
was yet a small village in Northumberland County they moved to the latter place and purchased 600 acres of land
east of the town-Bloom road being the northern boundary of the place for two miles out of town-at two shillings
and sixpence per acre. Their children have lived to see some of this original land sold at $225 per acre. Mr. Morrison's
farm is a part of this original purchase. Other small parts of it are yet in the hands of the great-grandchildren.(History
of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 213 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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SAMUEL MORRISON, retired farmer, Danville, was born November 3, 1821, a
son of Edward and Elizabeth (Sechler) Morrison. He was born and reared on the farm where he now resides and which
has been in the possession of the Sechler and Morrison families over 100 years. His father was a native of new
Jersey, of Scotch origin (whose mother, Sarah Lucas, was a Quakeress of English origin), a farmer, and a soldier
in the war of 1812. He died in 1868 aged seventy-six years, and had come to Montour County when twelve years old.
His wife was a native of Mahoning Township and of German origin. Her father, Joseph Sechler was an early settler
of Danville, having come here when it was only a small village and purchased 600 hundred acres east of Danville
at two shillings and sixpence per acre. Samuel Morrison is the fifth in a family of nine children; was reared on
the farm, and from his youth up engaged in agricultural pursuits. He was educated at home, his father paying a
teacher for the purpose. His farm is a beautiful one, well improved, and most of his money has been made by dealing
in stock and selling milk. In 1852 he married Hannah, daughter of Daniel Mourer, a farmer and of German origin.
Mrs. Morrison died in June, 1885, a member of the Lutheran Church and the mother of the following children: James,
married; Anna, wife of Jonathan Rudy, and Wooward. Mr. Morrison is a member of the Episcopal Church; politically
a Democrat, and has held several township offices.(History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania,
Battle, 1887 pg. 212 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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JACOB MOWERY, farmer, P. O. Danville, was born in Columbia County, Penn., October
18, 1816, a son of Christopher and Elizabeth (Smith) Mowery, natives of Berks Co. and of German origin. His father
came to Columbia in an early day; settled in the woods, cleared a farm, and passed the remainder of his life there.
Jacob is the youngest in a family of three children; was reared on the farm and attended the schools of Columbia
County. He has made farming his principal occupation, and is one of the most successful agriculturists in the county
where he has resided for many years. In early life he learned the shoemaker's trade, and worked at it for fourteen
years. He married, in 1833, Mary E., daughter of John Richards. She is of German origin, and has borne her husband
the following named children: Rebecca J. (deceased); Harvey S.; F. Adell, wife of John P. Weaver, a school-teacher,
and John R., who was the eldest son, was a soldier in the late war, enlisting when only seventeen years of age,
and was killed at the battle of Winchester. Mr. and Mrs. Mowery are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
in which he has been a steward and class leader. Politically he is a Republican.(History of Columbia and Montour
Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 213 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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HENRY MOYER, dealer in clothing and gents' furnishing goods, was born in Germany,
February 1, 1827, a son of Harmon and Barbara (Levi) Moyer, natives of Germany. The father was a drover and dealt
extensively in stock in his native country, where he spent his life. Henry is the ninth of twelve children, and
was reared in Baden, where he received his education. In early life he learned the trade of a butcher, which he
followed as a business until coming to America in 1852. He settled in Danville, Penn., and spent two years and
a half in peddling and making himself familiar with the laws and customs of his adopted country. By close application
he was able to start a general store in Danville in 1854, but in 1855 sold out and opened a butcher shop, and did
a successful business for nine years. In 1864 he established his present business, at which he has been very successful.
He married, in 1853, Sophia Myer, a native of Germany and who bore him three children: Fannie, Sarah and Harry,
and died in 1860. Mr. Moyer then married Sarah Gross, a native of Germany, who bore him seven children: Miles,
Barbara, Rebecca, Bessie, Maurice, Lewis and Julius. Mr. and Mrs. Moyer are of the Jewish faith. (History of
Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 164 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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JACOB W. MOYER, of the firm of Cruikshank, Moyer & Co., Danville, was born
in Montour County, October 13, 1838, a son of Daniel and Susan (Cortner) Moyer, natives of Northumberland (now
Montour) County, and whose ancestors were among the early German settlers of Pennsylvania. He is the eldest in
a family of eight children and grew to manhood in his native county, coming to Danville with his parents, in 1844.
Here he attended the common schools and in early life learned the machinist trade, at which he worked for a time,
subsequently embarking in his present business. The firm do an extensive trade in their foundry and machine shops,
Mr. Moyer doing the drafting, also the buying and selling. In 1862 he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-second
Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and served nine months. In 1864 he enlisted in the One Hundred and Eighty-eighth
Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and served on detached duty, being detailed to work on the calcium light, which
was erected on the breastworks so as to throw the light on the enemy's camp, at least, one-half mile distant, and,
being a skillful mechanic, Mr. Moyer was of great use in putting up the lights, and was thus employed until the
war closed. He participated in several engagements, among them Antietam, Chancellorsville and Fredericksburg. He
is a member of the council of Danville, and has been school director. In 1864 he married Clara, daughter of John
Doty, a native of Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Moyer are the parents of six children: Cora, Maggie, Virgie, Horace,
Ella and Walter. The parents are members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Moyeris a member of the I. O. O. F. and G.
A. R., and in politics is Democratic. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887,
pg. 165 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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JAMES B. MURRAY, farmer, P. O. Pott's Grove, Northumberland county, was born
in Liberty Township, Montour Co., Penn., November 23, 1840, son of William and Jane (Kerr) Murray. He was reared
in Liberty Township and has always made it his home, with the exception of three years, during which he was in
the army. He was married December 18, 1875, to Miss Arabella Moore, a native of this county, and daughter of John
and Catharine (Voris) Moore, who now reside in this township. Mr. and Mrs. Murray are the parents of two children:
Gilbert Voris and Edwin Moore. the parents are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Murray enlisted December
10, 1862, in Company F, Sixteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. He was mustered into the service at Harrisburg, and from
there went to the Shenandoah Valley to join what afterward became Sheridan's cavalry, and he participated in all
the campaigns of those famous troopers from that time until the close of the war. Among others he was at the battle
of the Wilderness, at Gettysburg, and all the others up to the last acts of the struggle; and participated in all
the movements about the defenses of Petersburg, including the taking of that famous stronghold and Richmond, and
the surrender of Lee at Appomatox. He was discharged at Lynchburg, Va., from there went to Washington, thence to
Harrisburg, and then returned home. He became sick in the service, and was nearly two months in the hospital, and
his health has never fully recovered from the effects of his campaigning. He was under Gen. Gregg, and in the company
of Capt. Robinson (afterward Hilburn), in Col. Gregg's regiment. Mr. Murray owns about 120 acres of land. (History
of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 202 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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JOSEPH K. MURRAY, farmer, P. O. Pott's Grove, Northumberland County, was born
in Valley Township, Montour Co., Penn., February 5, 1839, son of William and Jane S. (Kerr) Murray. Col. James
Murray, the grandfather of our subject, was of Scotch-Irish descent; was a colonel in the patriot army during the
Revolutionary war, and after that struggle came to Northumberland County, Penn., where he lived until his death,
which occurred in the vicinity of Watsontown. He owned most of the land north of Pott's grove, including the present
town site. He was three times married, and by his first marriage, in Northumberland County, Penn., where he was
reared. From there he removed to what is now Montour County, and taught school until he had completed sixteen years
at that profession, part of the time in Northumberland County, part in Montour County. He was in partnership with
Robert Kerr in mercantile business both at Mooresburg and Hartleton, Penn. He then went to Valley Township, Montour
County; thence to where John Moore now resides in Liberty Township; thence to the south side of the limestone ridge,
between Milton and Washingtonville, in Liberty Township, this county, where John Bieber now resides. In that immediate
neighborhood he died, at the house of his son-in-law, Samuel Blue, where he had resided the last eight years of
his life. He had 270 acres of land, but sold all except 120 acres some time previous too his death, which occurred
August 4, 1883; his wife died in 1864, and they are buried in the Chillisquaque Cemetery. They were both members
of the Presbyterian Church. William Murray had held the office of school director a great many years, as well as
other township offices. Mr. and Mrs. William Murray were the parents of eight children: Margaret Ann, deceased;
Clarinda K., wife of Samuel Blue; J. K.; James B.; Lizzie L. and Robert H., twins (Robert H. is deceased); Jennie
S., wife of Thomas Bieber, in Potts's Grove, Penn.; Mary L., wife of John Bieber, in Liberty Township, this county.
The subject of this sketch made his home with his parents, or on their land, until 1874, when he removed to his
present location, and has here since resided. He was married December 21, 1865, to Miss Sarah S., daughter of John
McMahon. Mr. and Mrs. Murray were the parents of eleven children, of whom nine are living: William Edwin, Jennie
Simington, Alice Foresman, Clyde Strawbridge, Robert Simington and Charles Howard (twins), Thomas Stewart, Edna
Vansant and Mary Elizabeth. John McMahon and Elwood are deceased. The parents are members of the Chillisquaque
Presbyterian Church, of which Mr. Murray is a ruling elder. Mr. Murray enlisted in the nine months service in 1862,
in Company G, One Hundred and Seventy-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, colonel, James Jophnson. He was mustered
in at Harrisburg; thence went to Washington, D. C.; thence to Newport News, on the James River; thence marched
to Yorktown, where he lay six months; thence to Williamsburg; thence to White House Landing, on Pamunkey River;
thence to Yorktown again, and from there to Washington; thence to Harrisburg, and thence home. He is a member of
the Grange No. 277, P. of H., Chillisquaque Township. In politics he is a Prohibitionists. He owns a fine farm,
which he takes pains to till in the most practical manner, and takes a deep interest in all matters tending toward
the elevation of his class. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 201
Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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HON. PHILIP C. NEWBAKER, physician and surgeon, Danville, is a great-grandson
of Martin Newbaker, who emigrated from Germany before the Revolution and settled at Powell's Creek, on the Susquehanna
River, eighteen miles above Harrisburg. Martin Newbaker served as a soldier in the war for independence, and some
of his descendants still reside near the old homestead where Dr. Newbaker was born, and from where his father and
family removed to Northumberland County. He is a son of John B. and Caroline Elizabeth (Maize) Newbaker, who were
natives of Dauphin County, Penn., of mixed German and English descent, and are still living. The former, John B.
Newbaker, is a physician, and is practicing his profession at Trevorton, Northumberland Co., Penn. His family consisted
of five children. Philip C., our subject, is the eldest; he was born August 13, 1843, near Halifax, Dauphin Co.,
Penn. He received a good academic education at the West Branch High School and the literary department of the Missionary
Institute, Selin's Grove, Penn. He taught school a few years, and on the breaking out of the late civil war, enlisted
as a private in Company F, Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served the full term of three months. He was at
the battle of Hoke's Run or Falling Waters, in northern Virginia, one of the first engagements of the war. In August,
1862, he again enlisted in Company K, Fifteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, at Philadelphia, for three years, which regiment
was assigned to duty under Gen. Rosecrans in Tennessee, where from hardships and exposure in service, he contracted
diseases which confined him to the hospital for several months. After partial recovery he was transferred to the
Invalid or Veteran Reserve Corps and continued in it to the close of the war. He was honorably discharged from
service July 5, 1865. From this it will be seen that he served in the army the greater part of the war. He then
began the study of medicine with his father, and entered Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, where he graduated
in the spring of 1869, and subsequently settled at Washingtonville, Montour County, where by skill in his profession,
and integrity as a citizen, he gained a deserved popularity. On September 24, 1867, he married Miss Amelia A. Koons,
of Weissport, Carbon Co., Penn. Dr. Newbaker and wife have five children: Winifred M., Charles A., Bertha A., Edward
J. and Francis W. In politics the Doctor is a Democrat, and in 1878 was nominated and subsequently elected to represent
Montour County in the State Legislature, and was re-elected in 1880. He is a member of the State and county medical
societies and of the American Medical Association and is secretary of the Board of United States Examining Surgeons
at Danville. He is also a member of Goodrich Post, No. 22, G. A. R., of Danville. In the spring of 1886 Dr. Newbaker
purchased the property in which he now resides, at No. 24, Mahoning Street, Danville and has already acquired considerable
practice. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, Danville, pg. 165 Transcribed
by Tammy L. Clark)
HON. P. C. NEWBAKER, one of the oldest and most prominent physicians and surgeons of Montour County, Pa.,
whose portrait we take pleasure in presenting on the foregoing page, is a resident of Danville, and is held in
high esteem by the citizens of that place. He was born near the village of Halifax, Dauphin County, Pa., August
13, 1843, and is a son of Dr. John B. and Caroline Elizabeth (Maize) Newbaker, and a grandson of Philip Newbaker.
The great-great-grandfather of our subject was Martin Newbaker who emigrated from Germany to America prior to the
Revolutionary War. The family name was originally spelled Neubecker. His son Philip, our subject's great-grandfather,
was a lieutenant in a Colonial regiment and after Independence was won settled at the mouth of Powell's Creek,
Dauphin County, Pa., on the banks of the Susquehanna River and there carried on agricultural pursuits the remainder
of his active days. His son, Philip second, our subject's grandfather, then became the owner of the property and
lived there until the time of his death in 1865. Inglenook Station on the Northern Central R. R. is located upon
the farm, and Inglenook Club House, where the business men of Harrisburg spend many of their leisure hours fishing
and otherwise enjoying themselves, is built upon the river bank near the old homestead. Our subject's father, Dr.
John B, Newbaker, was born and reared upon his father's farm and received a good education in the district schools
after which he studied medicine and graduated from the Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, in the class of
1852, subsequently removed to Northumberland County, Pa., and at present resides at Trevorton, in the same county,
where he still successfully practices his profession. He was asst.-surgeon in the 56th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., in
the Civil War and represented the Northumberland-Montour District in the H. R. Pa., in 1872. Our subject acquired
a good academic education in the West Branch High School at Jersey Shore, Pa., and at Missionary Institute at Selinsgrove,
Pa.; after teaching several months he entered the office of his father and commenced the study of medicine. On
April 23, 1861, at the beginning of the Civil War, he enlisted in Company F, 11th Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., first three
months' call, was in one of the first engagements of the war at Hokes Run, W. Va., and was discharged at Harrisburg,
Pa., July 31, 1865, by reason of expiration of term of service. On August 12, 1862, he re-enlisted in Company K,
15th Reg., Pa. Vol. Cav., at Philadelphia for a term of three years and his regiment was assigned to duty under
General Rosecrans, where he saw hard service and was in a number of engagements in the Army of the Cumberland.
On account of continued sickness and debility, induced by exposure in active service in the campaign in Kentucky
and Tennessee, during the winter and spring of 1863, he was transferred to Company D, 2d Reg., Veteran Reserve
Corps, in which he continued to serve as clerk of his company until the close of the war, when he received an honorable
discharge July 5, 1865. Returning home he again took up the study of medicine under his father's direction, and
later entered Jefferson Medical College from which he graduated March 12, 1869. Shortly afterward he located in
Washingtonville, Montour County (Feb. 6, 1870), where he soon built up a large and lucrative practice. He continued
his practice in that village sixteen years, when he removed to Danville, in 1886, where he has since followed the
practice of his profession, being already well and favorably known throughout the county. He has been remarkably
successful in his profession. Hon. P. C. Newbaker is an ardent supporter of the Democratic party and in 1878 was
nominated and elected to represent Montour County in the State Legislature; in 1880 he was again honored with a
seat in that body, which shows his popularity throughout the county. At the general election, held November 8,
1898, Dr. Newbaker was elected treasurer of Montour County for a term of three years, commencing January 1, 1899.
He is president of the Danville School Board, having held that office since June, 1897; is a member of the State
and County Medical Societies; a member of Goodrich Post, No. 22, G. A. R.; Union Veteran Legion; Danville Lodge,
No. 224, F. & A. M., of which he is past master; and has been secretary of the Board of United States Examining
Surgeons at Danville, Pa., since 1886. He purchased a residence at No. 105 West Mahoning street in 1886, to which
he has made many improvements and has added an office. He was united in the bonds of matrimony with Amelia A. Koons,
a daughter of Benjamin Koons of Weissport, Pa., and their union has been blessed by five children: Winifred M.,
a graduate of the Pittsburg Musical Conservatory, who afterward completed her musical education at New York, and
at Berlin, Germany, and is one of the most talented musicians in Central Pennsylvania; Charles A., a graduate of
Lehigh University, is an electrical engineer; Bertha, a graduate of the Danville High School; Edward J., who attended
West Point and Lehigh University, is now a mining engineer; and Francis W., at present a student in the Danville
High School. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing
Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 173 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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OGDEN H. OSTRANDER, one of the most widely known citizens of Northumberland
County, is a highly esteemed resident of Riverside, where he is engaged in civil engineering, in the real estate
business, and as an expert accountant. He was born in New York City, October 12, 1837, and is a son of Philip H.
and Julia A. (Van Loon) Ostrander, both of whom were natives of New York City. Our subject was reared and educated
in New York City, learned the profession of a civil engineer, and then spent six years in the employ of the New
York & Hudson River Railroad. He then gave up his profession and moved to Danville, Pa., to accept a position
in a large general store; later he spent one year in Philadelphia; then he returned to Danville and became accountant
for Grove Bros., of that town, which position he held for a period of seven years. This position he resigned to
accept an appointment as postmaster of Danville, and at the expiration of his term, in 1869, he again took up his
former profession as a civil engineer. In 1869 he laid out the village of Riverside, which lies on the bank of
the Susquehanna River, opposite the borough of Danville, and is located in Rush township, Northumberland County.
Our subject built a handsome brick residence, with a brown-stone front, on the corner of Avenue D and Sixth street;
the house is surrounded by a well-kept lawn and beautiful shade trees and shrubberies. He also built and sold some
twenty other model residences, and induced many people to make Riverside their home. Mr. Ostrander has supervised
the erection of many of the residences and business structures of Riverside, including the bridge that was built
in 1875, which connects Danville and Riverside, and the Danville Water Works. In 1871 he erected the Union School
building, paid the bills and carried all indebtedness for several years, when it was transferred to the school
district. He has been interested in the growth of both Danville and Riverside, has served as president of the Glendower
Mills, now known as the Mahoning Rolling Mills, and has served as accountant for nearly all the mills and manufacturing
establishments in Danville. He has also served as justice of the peace, as school director, and has been a member
of the village council of Riverside. In 1898 the borough of Sunbury made a contract with George F. Steefer and
Mr. Ostrander for the "making of an official map of the borough, and in 1899, after about a year and a half
of labor, the work was completed, at a cost of about $2,000. Mr. Ostrander was wedded to Melissa D. Brown, a daughter
of George B. Brown of Danville. George Brown was born in Columbia County, now Montour County, September 13, 1816,
and is a son of Samuel and Dorothy (Neice) Brown, the former a native of England and the latter a native of Holland.
George Brown engaged in farming until he was seventeen years of age and then began clerking in a store at Mifflinville,
Pa. In 1834 he moved to Danville and purchased the store of S. M. Bowman & Company; he then studied dentistry
and later opened a dental office. In 1856 he opened and conducted a stationery store, and to him belongs the honor
of establishing the first daily newspaper of Danville. He was united in marriage to Sarah A. Gearhart, a daughter
of John Gearhart, and as a result of this union four children were reared, namely: Benton B.; Melissa D., our subject's
wife; John G.; and William G. Mr. and Mrs. Ostrander are the parents of the following children: George B., a clerk
residing at Wilkesbarre, Pa.; Walter S., a civil engineer and surveyor of Riverside; Sarah B., who is attending
school; and Henry and Mary, who died in infancy. Mr. Ostrander is a member of the Masonic fraternity and is the
oldest past master living of Danville Lodge No. 224, F. & A. M.; is past high priest and past commander of
the Knights Templar; also a member of Danville Chapter. Our subject is a member of the Baptist Church and has served
as trustee many years; he also aided in the building of the Episcopal Church of Riverside. Mrs. Ostrander is a
member of the Methodist Church. In politics our subject is a Democrat, but was formerly a Republican, having cast
his first vote for Lincoln. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by
Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 703 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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REV. OSCAR PARK, A.M. - From Jerseytown, Montour county; graduated at Marietta
College, Ohio, '43; graduated at Princeton Theological Seminary, '46; ordained evangelist by Presbytery of Northumberland,
June, '46; preached at Waukesha, Wis., '56; for a time Professor in Carroll College, Wis.; and pastor at Chatsworth,
Ill., until his death, Jan. 25, '71, aged 54.(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. 150 Contributed by Vicki Hartman)
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JOHN C. PATTERSON, retired farmer, Danville, was born in Columbia County,
Penn., in September, 1836, a son of John and Anna (Mather) Patterson, natives of Columbia County, and whose ancestors
were among the early Scotch-Irish settlers of that section. John C. is the youngest of a family of five children,
four of whom grew to maturity. He was reared on the farm, educated at the district school, and followed farming
until coming to Danville in 1866. September 3, 1864, he enlisted in the Two Hundred and Tenth Pennsylvania Volunteer
Infantry, and served until the close of the war. January 1, 1866, he married Miss Mary E., daughter of Caleb Appleman,
and their union has been blessed with two children, Ella and Mary V. Mrs. Patterson and children are members of
the Presbyterian Church. She is engaged in the millinery business, at which she is very successful. Mr. Patterson
is a member of the Masonic fraternity. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887,
pg. 165 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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WILLIAM R. PAULES, M. D., the subject of this narrative is one of the foremost
physicians of the Seventeenth Congressional District of Pennsylvania and is a valued citizen of Danville, in which
town he owns and conducts a large drug store. He was born in Marietta, Lancaster County, Pa., November 24, 1863,
and is a son of David and Elizabeth (Rumbaugh) Paules. David Paules is of German descent and was born in Lancaster
County, Pa. His father was one of the leading agriculturists of his community and, having been reared upon the
farm, it was but natural that David should follow that occupation. Attaining his majority he purchased a farm near
the village of Marietta and by his good management and industrious efforts he has accumulated a small fortune and
has one of the best farms in Lancaster County. In the spring of 1898 Mr. Paules retired to the town of Marietta
to enjoy the emoluments of his past progressive and honored life. He formed a matrimonial alliance with Elizabeth
Rumbaugh and a family of eight children was born to them, all of whom received a liberal education and are popular
and well-to-do citizens in the communities in which they reside. Dr. Paules was reared upon his father's farm,
attended the district school until he was twelve years of age and then entered the high school and was graduated
four years later. He then continued his studies at the Millersville State Normal School, from which he graduated
with the class of 1883. He then engaged as a teacher, but not being satisfied with a position that afforded work
only a few months in the year, he decided upon a medical career, and accordingly took up his studies with Dr. Norris,
a prominent physician of Marietta. In 1886 he located in Danville and clerked in the drug store owned by Dr. S.
Y. Thompson. He next entered the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia and was graduated with the class of
1890. He soon after entered upon the practice of his profession at Danville, and has since followed it continuously
with marked success. He also owns a neat and well-kept drug store, which has proven a profitable venture. He purchased
the Grier property on the corner of Bloom and Ferry streets and has enlarged and rebuilt the same into a handsome
residence. Our subject wedded Florence Peifer, a daughter of George W. Peifer, and the following children have
blessed their happy home, namely: Parvin Elwood, born July 24, 1892; and Mary Elizabeth, born June 15, 1897. Dr.
Paules is a member of Danville Lodge No. 780, I. O. O. F., and Lotus Conclave, I. O. H. His wife is a member of
the Lutheran Church of Danville. Dr. Paules has labored diligently and industriously to perfect himself in his
profession and has been remarkably successful. He is a popular man, has built up an extensive practice, and has
won a place among the foremost of his profession. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District
Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 292 Transcribed by Tammy
L. Clark)
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EMANUEL PETERS, wholesale dealer in ice and oysters, Danville, was born in
Union County, Penn., March 3, 1826, a son of Michael and Martha (Miller) Peters, natives of Pennsylvania, of German
origin, the former a tailor by trade. Emanuel was their only child, and was educated at the subscription schools
of Union County. He came to Danville when seventeen years old, and has since made it his home, and in 1854 embarked
in his present business, at which he has been successful. In 1854 he married Elizabeth, daughter of Gideon Mellon,
and of English origin. Their children are Arthur M., who is with his father; Anna Mary, wife of S. W. Fisher; Clara
M.; F. G.; Lucy M.; Saddie M. and Elmer E. Nearly all the family are members of the Methodist Church. Mr. Peters
was a member of the One Hundred and Seventy-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry during the civil war, having
enlisted in 1862. He is independent in politics; a member of the I. O. O. F. and the I. O. of R. M. (History
of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 166 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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J. R. PHILIPS, United States gauger, Danville, was born in Columbia County, Penn.,
August 24, 1828, a son of George W. and Rhoda Ann (Reese) Philips, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German and Welsh
origin. The father was a chainmaker by trade, but made farming the occupation of his life, and now resides on a
farm in Sullivan County, Penn., whither he removed in 1843. Our subject is the eldest in a family of eight sons
and four daughters, all of whom grew to maturity, and was reared on the farm in Hemlock Township, Columbia County,
receiving a common-school education. In early life he worked in the iron-ore mines, and in 1849 came to Danville
and learned the puddler's trade in the iron works, serving a three years' apprenticeship, and when just completing
his trade was appointed foreman in the Montour Iron & Rolling-mill Works, which position he occupied for twenty
years. He served as justice of the peace for a like period and resigned in 1886. Since 1883 Mr. Philips has been
tax collector, and also United States gauger and market master of Danville. He is secretary of the school board
and a member of the I. O. O. F., both of the encampment and subordinate lodge. In politics he is a Democrat. In
1850 he married Mary, daughter of David Allegar, of German origin, and their children are George W., deceased;
Amelia; Joseph W., a druggist, of Danville; Matilda, Margaret and Kate. Mrs. Philips is a member of the Presbyterian
Church of Danville. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 166 Transcribed
by Tammy L. Clark)
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RUFUS K. POLK, of Danville, Pa., is general manager of the North Branch Steel
Company, Danville, and one of the firm of Howe & Polk, manufacturers of structural tubing and special shapes
in iron and steel products. Mr. Polk was born in Columbia, Maury County, Tennessee, August 23, 1866, and removed
to Pennsylvania when sixteen years of age; he was educated at Lehigh University, where he graduated, taking first
the degree of B. S. and afterwards that of Mining Engineer. Immediately after his graduation he located in Danville,
Montour County, where for many years he was chemist of the Montour Iron & Steel Company; he finally became
assistant superintendent of this company, and left there to become the general manager of the North Branch Steel
Company. On February 17, 1898, the firm of Howe & Polk was organized, after the purchase of the Mahoning Rolling
Mill Company property. This plant is busily engaged in the manufacture of structural tubing and special shapes,
and gives employment to several hundred men. Mr. Polk has taken an active part in politics, and in 1898 was elected
to represent the Seventeenth Congressional District in the Fifty-sixth Congress. He has also taken an interest
in the local affairs of the town, having served for several years as president of the board of water commissioners.
In 1892 Mr. Polk married Isabella Montgomery Grier, only daughter of Isaac X. Grier, of Danville. They have three
children, namely: Emma Grier; Porter Grier; and Isabella Grier. Mr. Polk served as first lieutenant in Company
F, 12th Reg., Pennsylvania Volunteers, in the late war with Spain. His portrait is presented on a preceding page.
( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company
of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 507 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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WILLIAM S. POLLOCK, farmer, P. O. Exchange, was born in what is now Anthony
township, Montour County, July 8, 1822, a son of James and Elizabeth (Scout) Pollock. The paternal grandfather
of our subject came to this country from the North of Ireland, and located in Pennsylvania, coming first to one
of the lower counties, thence to Northumberland, now Montour County, locating near Exchange, his tract of 200 acres
being now partly owned by Patrick Dinenn, and partly by William Pollock. Here he lived until he died. He and his
wife are both buried at Derry Presbyterian Church. James Pollick, father of William S., was born in one of the
lower counties of Pennsylvania, and came to this locality with his parents. He was married in this county to Miss
Elizabeth Scout, and they at first lived on the part of the old homestead which is now owned by Patrick Dinenn.
In 1823 he went to the vicinity of Muncy, Lycoming Co., Penn., and there resided until 1837, when he returned to
what is now Montour County, and located on the old homestead which he had bought two years previously, and here
he lived until his death, his wife having preceded him. They are buried at the Derry Church. They were the parents
of twelve children, of whom four are living: Thomas, in Muncy Creek Township, Lycoming County, Penn.; William S.,
Jane Harriet, wife of Henry Biddle, in White Hall, this county, and Effie D. The subject of this sketch was born
while the family lived on land belonging to Patrick Dinenn, and the next spring his parents removed to Muncy Creek,
and after fifteen years returned to Montour County, where he has lived ever since with the exception of eighteen
months spent in the West. He was married December 25, 1855, to Miss Susan McKee, daughter of James McKee. After
marriage they made their home for eighteen months at Kankakee and Freeport, Ill., and on returning to Montour County,
located on the eastern part of the old homestead. Mrs. Pollock died May 16, 1861, and is buried in the Derry Churchyard.
She was the mother of two children: James B., born in Freeport, Ill., now living below Washingtonville, in Liberty
Township, this county; Bruce B., born in this township, where he now lives on his father's land on the eastern
part of the old homestead. Mr. Pollock was next married March 14, 1873, by Rev. John Johnson, to Margaret Elizabeth,
daughter of Col. John F. Derr, a colonel in the army that went to Black Rock in 1812. Mr. and Mrs. Pollock are
members of the Presbyterian Church, the former joining about 1851, and the latter in 1862. Mr. Pollock has been
for twenty-one years an elder in the church. He has been supervisor of the township, and has held the office of
assessor, judge, etc. In politics he is a Prohibitionist; he has 100 acres of land. He is a full cousin to ex-Gov.
Pollock. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 188 Transcribed by Tammy
L. Clark)
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THOMAS J. PRICE, superintendent of the Mahoning Rolling Mill Company of Danville,
and a highly respected citizen of that town, was born at Tredegar, Wales, February 26, 1855, and is a son of Prof.
John M. and Mary (Roberts) Price, and a grandson of Thomas Price. The father of our subject was born at Rhymny,
Wales, in 1828, and came to the United States in 1854, locating in New York City. In the same year he moved to
Danville, Pa., where he became boss-roller of the Montour Rolling Mills. In 1865 he was employed in the Rough and
Ready Mills, now the Mahoning Rolling Mill Company, and two years later he went to Syracuse, N. Y., where he accepted
a position as superintendent of the Syracuse Rolling Mill Company. In 1881 he retired from that line of business
and devoted his time to music, having studied music when -young and also while working at his trade. Mr. Price
possessed a beautiful voice. While a resident of Danville, Pa., he organized a quartet composed of John A. Jones,
Robert James, Joseph Parry and himself. This quartet acquired an extended reputation, and in 1865 they took a trip
to England, where they were cordially received. Mr. Parry received numerous prizes for his excellent compositions
and was made professor of music in the College of Swansea, Wales. Mr. Price is now successfully engaged in following
the musical profession in New York City. He was united in marriage with Mary Roberts, a daughter of Thomas Roberts,
a native of Wales. The following children resulted from this union: John T., superintendent of the Spuyten Duyvil
Iron Foundry of New York City; George T., assistant superintendent of the Spuyten Duyvil Iron Foundry of New York
City; Ella J., wife of Thomas Hoskins of New York City; Frank S., a sergeant of the New York City police; Mary
A., a teacher in music; Sarah, who died at the age of three years; Jeannette, a music teacher and stenographer
residing at Rome, N. Y.; and Thomas J., our subject. The mother of our subject died in 1867 at the age of thirty-four
years. Thomas J. Price came to the United States with his mother in 1856 and settled in Danville, Pa., where he
received his intellectual training. At Syracuse he assisted his father in the iron works, learning the iron and
steel trade. He then went to New York City in 1879 and was engaged with the Spuyten Duyvil Rolling Mill Company
until 1883, when he returned to Danville to accept the position of boss-roller at the Glendower Rolling Mills.
In 1885 he went to Harrisburg, Pa., and engaged as a boss-roller in the Lochiel Steel Works until 1886, when he
resigned his position and returned to Danville to accept the position of superintendent of the Mahoning Rolling
Mill Company, in which capacity he has since served. Mr. Price was married to Sarah Foley, a daughter of Edward
Foley of Danville, and to this union three children were born, namely: John, who died at the age of two years;
Annie Florence; and Edward F. Our subject served as chief burgess of Danville from 1890 to 1896, and was school
director one year. He is a supporter of the principles advocated by the Republican party. Socially he is a member
of Danville Lodge, No. 780, I. O. O. F.; and of the Improved Order of Heptasophs. He was appointed postmaster of
Danville, February 15, 1899, and took possession of the postoffice April 1, 1899. ( Book of Biographies of the
Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo,
NY (1899), pg. 504 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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WILLIAM PURSEL, Sr., farmer, P. O. Danville, was born in Hemlock Township,
Columbia Co., Penn., April 9, 1808, son of Daniel and Mary (Green) Pursel, natives of New Jersey, and of Irish
origin. Daniel PURSEL was a blacksmith and farmer, and came to Columbia County with the early settlers; his family
consisted of eight sons and three daughters. Our subject was the seventh child, and was reared on the farm, attending
the subscription schools in the township; he chose farming as his occupation, but learned the tanner's trade and
worked at it four years, when he again resumed farming, and made that his business until he retired from the active
labors of life. In business he has met with success, and is the owner of the farm where he now resides. He was
united in marriage in 1830, with Susan, daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Rupert) Farnwald; her parents were natives
of Pennsylvania, and of German origin. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Pursel has been blessed with seven children,
(six now living): Charles, Daniel G., Sarah B. (now the wife of P. Moore), Peter, William F. (deceased), James,
and Samuel who has charge of the farm. Mr. and Mrs. Pursel are members of the Reformed Church in which he has been
a deacon and elder. He has served as school director, supervisor, and overseer of the poor.(History of Columbia
and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 218 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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ISAAC RANCK was for more than half a century identified with the growth and
development of Columbia and Montour Counties. He was much above the average of all that goes to make up a noble
manhood, habits which bring no reproach and a character which shone brightly in the every day duties and vocations
of life. His birth occurred May 19, 1811, in White Deer, Union Co., Penn. His parents, Isaac and Rebecca Ranck,
were from Lancaster County, Penn., and were among the first settlers of Union County. He was the seventh in a family
of thirteen children--ten sons and three daughters--all but one of whom arrived to the age of maturity. Seven survive
the subject of this sketch in the full vigor of life. At the age of seventeen he was apprenticed to Messrs. Carr
& Co., carriage builders of Milton, Penn., and, after serving four years, he moved, in the early spring of
1832, to the village of Danville, Columbia county, and established himself in business as a smith and carriage
manufacturer, at the corner of Mill and Mahoning Streets, opposite the present opera house. He also engaged in
the lumber and boating business but soon abandoned all but his shops. About 1834 he married Miss Catharine Heller,
and three children blessed their union: Norman Leslie, Ellis Hughes, Mary Elizabeth, all living. In 1842 he became
widower, and in 1844 he married Elizabeth Heller, who bore him four children: Anna Rebecca, David Hays, Catharine
Frances and Henry Clay (the last two dying in infancy). David H. is the publisher of the Millstone and Corn Miller,
Indianapolis, Ind., a representative monthly publication devoted to milling and mechanical interests. In 1872 death
again entered his home and took away his wife. For eleven years he made his home with his son and daughter in Danville.
On the 8th of March, 1883, Mr. Ranck passed away, dying in the faith of Christianity. All his life he adorned our
common humanity with a character pure as light, with a reputation untarnished by worldly associations, by daily
walk and conversation worthy of emulation, a legacy to his children more lasting than money. Mr. Ranck witnessed
the growth of Danville from a small village of less than a thousand population to a city of 10,000 inhabitants.
He was chief burgess of the city in 1860, and afterward served as councilman. He was also elected and served many
years as justice of the peace. Columbia and Montour Counties can feel an honest pride in having had for more than
fifty years a citizen who embodied so much that was good and noble. In personal appearance Mr. Ranck was commanding,
above average height and of rotundity of build, weighing over 200 pounds. Honesty, justice and truth were woven
into the woof of his being. Strictly temperate in all his habits, he lived to be three score and twelve years and
passed to his reward. He was interred March 11, 1883, in Mount Vernon Cemetery, Northumberland County, Penn. His
family, consisting of five children, all of whom except David H., were born in Danville and vicinity, have all
maintained the high integrity and honor of the name. Norman was born August 2, 1835; Ellis H., born August 10,
1837; Mary E., born June 21, 1841; Anna R., born February 23, 1844, and David H., born February 5, 1847. (History
of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 166 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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DANIEL W. RANK, attorney, P. O. Limestoneville, is a descendant of Philip Rank,
who was a resident of Earl Township, Lancaster Co., Penn., early in the last century, and whose parents came from
Alsace in 1728. The next in line of descent was Philip Adam Rank, to whom, by an old writing, now in the possession
of our subject, he sold some land in the same township in 1770. Philip Adam's son was Adam. In 1790 he removed
to a farm which he bought in what is now Union County; here he died. His son Daniel was the grandfather of Daniel
W. He was born and lived and died in Union County, Penn. He was born in 1789, and died in 1854. He was a farmer
and blacksmith. His wife was Catharine Heckel, who died some years before her husband; he married again after her
decease. The children, who were all of the first marriage, were, Daniel, who died in Union County, Penn.; Andrew
H., living in Centreville, Ind.; Hiram, who died in infancy; Lambert, died at "White Deer Mill," Union
Co., Penn., December, 1886; Mary, wife of William Chamberlain, and Catharine, wife of Martin Mackey, both of whom
died in Union County, Penn.: the other child was Joseph S., who was the oldest of the family, and was born December
20, 1807. He is now living, and has always been a farmer. He was married, December 30, 1830, to Catharine McGinness,
of Union County, Penn. In April, 1836, he removed to this township to a farm, on a part of which he now lives.
His wife died December 31, 1879. They had six children, viz.: James C., a farmer, in Fillmore County, Minn.; John
M., who died in Central City, Col.; Daniel W.; Hiram William, who died in infancy; Henry Clay, who died unmarried;
Elizabeth Catharine, living at home. Our subject was born February 16, 1835, in Union County, Penn., and until
1855 he worked on the farm, and in that year began reading law in the office of Robert Hawley, in Muncy, Penn.,
and was admitted April 24, 1859, at Williamsport. From there he went to Millersburg, Dauphin Co., Penn, where he
was again admitted and practiced there until August 31, 1861, when he enlisted in Company D, Seventh Pennsylvania
Cavalry; on October 9, he was made sergeant; on November 18 was promoted to sergeant-major, and on June 11, 1864,
by order of Secretary of War was mustered back to July 1, 1863, as first lieutenant of Company M, same regiment.
On August 31, 1864, he was made acting assistant adjutant-general for the detachment First Brigade, Second Cavalry
Division, then at Columbia, Tenn., and was subsequently appointed to the command of the detachment to guard Sherman's
line of transportation. He remained in this duty until December 16, 1864, when he was mustered out on account of
ill health, not accepting a commission as captain which had been sent him. On his return he remained at home, unable
to engage in any occupation until the beginning of 1872, when he went to Scranton, Penn., practicing there for
ten years, during which time he was commissioned by Gov. Hartranft district attorney of the mayor's court, the
only commission issued by a governor which had to be confirmed by the Senate. In 1882 he returned to his former
home in Limestone, and in the fall of 1884 was elected district attorney of Monitor County for three years; he
is also practicing law in Danville. On May 12, 1875, he was married to Mary Catharine, daughter of Robert H. McKune,
formerly mayor of Scranton, Penn. She was born January 11, 1846, and died July 18, 1881. To this union two children
were born, both of whom died in infancy. Mr. Rank now divides his time between the practice of his profession,
his duties as district attorney, and attending to his farm, where he makes his home for the sake of his health.
He is a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 208 Transcribed
by Tammy L. Clark)
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FREDERICK REAM, teacher in and superintendent of the public schools of Montour
County, Danville, was born in Lancaster County, Penn., July 20, 1851, a son of John and Anna (Westley) Ream, natives
of Pennsylvania and of German origin, and whose ancestors were among the early residents of Pennsylvania. The father
by trade is a coach-maker; also for a time followed farming, and now resides in Washingtonville, Montour County.
Frederick is the fifth in a family of five sons and three daughters, and was reared in Montour County, where his
parents have resided since 1860. He received his early education in the public schools of Montour County, and was
also a student at the Bloomsburg Normal School and at academies at other places. At the age of fifteen he commenced
teaching, which he followed for sixteen years, pursuing through this period a well directed course of self-education.
During 1870-73 he was engaged in mercantile business at Washingtonville, and since 1873 has followed teaching.
He taught in Schuylkill County and at Freesburg Academy for two years, and in the Danville High School three years,
and was elected county superintendent of public schools in 1884. Since then he has been engaged in that capacity.
He is a Past Grand of the I. O. O. F., and trustee of the I. O. O. F. cemetery at Danville. Mr. Reammarried in
1873, Mary C., daughter of William Seidel and of German origin. Their children are Bertha A., Vinnie Olive and
Carrie S. Mr. and Mrs. Ream are members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Ream is politically a Democrat. (History
of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 167 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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JOHN REBMAN, one of the popular commercial travelers representing F. P. Delley
& Company of Philadelphia, who makes his home at Danville, Pa., was born in Stuttgart, Germany, January 3,
1847, and is a son of John and Catherine (Hanselmen) Rebman, and grandson of Hesock Rebman. Hesock Rebman was a
descendant of nobility, and our subject has a copy of his coat-of-arms and crest. He had charge of the mint in
Germany many years. His son, John, the father of our subject, was born in Germany, and was engaged in the manufacture
of calico. He came to the United States in 1852 and settled in Frankfort, Pa., where he remained some time, when
he moved to Philadelphia and spent the latter days of his life in quiet and peace. While a resident of Frankfort,
he was successfully engaged in the manufacture of axles, and operated a large factory. He was united in marriage
with Catherine Hanselmen, and they were the parents of two children, namely: Frederick, deceased; and John, the
subject of this personal history. Upon the death of our subject's father, Mrs. Rebman was wedded to Louis Houtrum,
and they have raised one daughter, Lizzie. John Rebman entered the Wisengras Gymnasium during his younger days,
where he became a marvel in performing feats on the trapeze. He came to the United States on the ship "Washington"
and landed in Philadelphia May 13, 1860, and for some time he was engaged in following the barber's trade. He then
took up his old profession, and traveled with many of the leading circuses in the United States, including Forepaugh's
Show, Robinson's Show, was with R. E. Gardner four and one-half years, and was with R. S. Q. Stokes, when that
gentleman made a tour through Europe, where our subject was billed as the special attraction. He was the first
one to introduce to the world the double somersault, and won a reputation as the most daring leaper of his day.
Our subject spent many months traveling through Brazil and Cuba. He was obliged to retire from the show business
as the hard work was fast telling on his physical health, and he came to Danville, Pa., and under the firm name
of Krebs & Rebman carried on a wholesale and retail liquor house. In 1887 he became a traveling salesman, representing
the well known firm of F. P. Delley & Co., of Philadelphia. Mr. Rebman was united in the bonds of matrimony
with Emma M. Leigles, a daughter of E; R. Leigles, who for many years was identified with the iron mills of Danville,
but who is now engaged in farming at Kipp's Run, Pa. Five children resulted from this union, namely: Frederick
B., an operator at Youngstown, Ohio, was wedded to Anna Haves; Samuel C., a bookkeeper for Rochey, Pierce &
Company of Pittsburg, was married to Jennie Askner, and they have one child, Annie; and Harry J., a lawyer of Danville,
who was admitted to the bar in 1895. Mr. Rebman is a member and past master of Danville Lodge No. 516, F. &
A. M.; Lodge No. 109, I. O. O. F.; I. O. R. M.; and K. of P. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional
District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899), pg. 618 Transcribed
by Tammy L. Clark)
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S. Y. RICHARDS, photographer and owner and proprietor of the Danville art gallery,
was born three and a half miles south of Danville, August 31, 1836; a son of John and Rebecca (Clark) Richards,
who were among the early German settlers of Pennsylvania. His grandfather kept a hotel in Danville in the early
pioneer days; his father followed farming all his life and died in Lycoming County on the farm where he had resided
since our subject was four years old. He had been twice married, and by his first marriage had seven children,
of whom our subject is the youngest; he grew up on the farm, also helped in the saw-mill and was an expert at running
a circular saw. When he reached his majority he commenced to learn the carpenter's trade, and worked at it for
ten years; later studied the art of photography, in 1866, in Danville; but being desirous of obtaining the best
knowledge of that business he went to New York, where he remained under the instruction of Prof. Hugh O'neil, and
obtained a thorough knowledge of the business. He then resided in Carbondale, Penn., for seven years, moving thence
to Pittston, where he remained for seven years, and from 1884 to 1886 resided in Towanda. He then came to Danville
and opened a large and well furnished art gallery, and is well worthy of the patronage he has received. June 7,
1861, he married Matilda A., daughter of David Kine, a native of Berks County, Penn. Mr. and Mrs. Richards are
the parents of the following named children: Ella, wife of Charles C. Colburn; Hallie, deceased; Lizzie, wife of
Walter Smith, and Mamie. The parents are members of the Methodist Church. While a resident of Towanda, Mr. Richards
was a member of the board of stewards of the church. He is now a member of Saint Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church
of Danville. Politically he is a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle,
1887, pg. 167 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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JOHN LYMAN RICHARDSON (deceased) was born in the State of Vermont, September
16, 1816, son of William P. and Laura (Lyman) Richardson, natives of Vermont and of English descent. Our subject
came to Luzerne County, Penn., at the age of twenty-five years. He began life by teaching school, which he followed
several years, and was superintendent of the public schools of Luzerne County for two terms. He was also connected
with a Prohibition paper in Bloomsburg for a number of years. He was an Abolitionist until slavery was abolished,
and then became a Prohibitionist, in which party he figured quite prominently until his death in March, 1885, at
Mount Carmel, Penn. He dropped dead of heart disease, but no one ever knew that he was troubled with it. He was
the father of nine children, eight of whom are now living: Mary, wife of Isaac P. Hand, in Wilkesbarre, Penn.;
Laura, wife of Angus Morrison; Galitzin T., in Idaho; Florence D., wife of Willis Emmons, in Pomona. Cal.; Emily
E., wife of Walter T. Hall, in Idaho; William P., in Jordan Valley, Ore.; John L., in New York City; Harriet H.,
in Bloomsburg. Catharine is deceased. The mother resides in Bloomsburg, Penn.(History of Columbia and Montour
Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 192 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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M. S. RIDGWAY, superintendent of the Montour Iron and Steel Works and Rolling
Mills, Danville, was born at Milford Village, Pike Co., Penn., March 12, 1820, a son of Matthew and Elizabeth (Ludlow)
Ridgway. The former was born on Long Island, N. Y., and was of English origin; the latter was born in New Jersey,
and was of French descent; they were the parents of seven children. The father was an influential man, and at the
time of his death, in 1820, was high sheriff of Pike County, N. Y.; he was a brave and successful officer. A prisoner
in his charge, who was convicted of murder in 1814, escaped from jail and fled to Canada. Mr. Ridgway followed,
and with the assistance of some Indians succeeded in locating the murderer, but while negotiating with parties
to get the criminal across the line to the United States, was himself arrested by the English authorities as a
spy. He was a Quaker, and having an uncle in Canada, he succeeded in obtaining his liberty and returned home through
the wilderness to Pike County, and his prisoner with him. Mr. Ridgway was a Mason, a man of more than ordinary
intelligence and will power. He was a son of Jacob Ridgway, also a Quaker. M. S. Ridgway, our subject, is the youngest
of the family, and was born the year of his father's death. He attended the common schools until the age of eleven
years, when he chose a guardian. At sixteen he began to learn the trade of a blacksmith, and served a regular apprenticeship;
then worked as a journeyman four years, and in 1844 came to Danville to superintend the blacksmithing in the erection
of the Montour Iron and Steel Works. These works were completed in 1845, and shortly afterward Mr. Ridgway was
appointed manager of the works, and has since remained in charge for a period of forty-three years. He has remained
with the works through its adversity and prosperity, and although the business has changed hands six times, Mr.
Ridgway has always been retained as the right man in the right place. He assisted in making the first "T"
rail made in the United States. It was made by Murdock Levitt & Co., in Danville, Penn. This firm was succeeded
by the Montour Iron Company. Mr. Ridgway married in 1840, in Norristown, N. J., Miss Rachel Whitehead. Her parents
were English, but of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. Ridgway have five children: Edwin O., married, and employed in
the rolling-mills of Pueblo, Col.; Stephen, employed as shipping-clerk for a large manufactory in Ohio; Warren;
Laura E. and Grant. In politics Mr. Ridgway is a Republican; he is a Knight Templar and has been a member of the
Masonic order since 1846. Mrs. Ridgway is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. (History of Columbia and
Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 167 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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JAMES L. RIEHL, president of the Agricultural Society of Danville, and owner
of the Montour Hotel, which he conducted for many years, is one of the popular and esteemed residents of the town
of Danville, and is spending his latter days in enjoying the fruits of the labors of his younger years. He was
born in Northampton County, Pa., near the town of Easton, in July, 1829, and is a son of John and Susanna (Shimer)
Riehl, and a grandson of John Riehl, Sr. John Riehl, the father of our subject, was born at Easton, Northampton
County, Pa., and his early days were spent working in a blacksmith shop; later he purchased a fine farm and was
one of the leading farmers of his community. By the exercise of economy, he succeeded in accumulating enough money
to purchase another farm, and now owns two of the best farms in his section of the county. Our subject was reared
upon his father's farm, where he assisted him in his labors, but in 1851 he became a hotelman, which proved to
be the calling to which he was best adapted, as he built up a reputation that will stand as an example to the rising
generation. His first hotel was known as the American House, at Easton, Pa., but a few years later he moved to
Bethlehem, Pa., where he opened the American House and conducted that hotel for some time, when he moved to Mauch
Chunk, Pa., and opened the Mansion Hotel. In 1860 he went to Danville and bought the Montour House, which was a
part of the Montgomery estate, of Magill & Boyd. He enlarged and remodeled his purchase into a three-story
building, which has fifty-six finely furnished rooms and a large dining-room, office and salesroom. The hotel is
on the corner of Mill and Market streets, one of the best locations in Danville for his business. In 1892 our subject
retired from active life and has leased his hotel to his nephews, Augustus L. and Samuel B. Cressman, who have
continued the business to the present time. In 1888 Mr. Riehl was made president of the Danville Agricultural Society.
This association dates back to February I, 1856, when the first fair was held in Montour County, then Columbia
County. For many years Danville held the largest fairs in this section of the state; May 8, 1892, the name of the
society was changed to the Montour County Agricultural Society of Danville. The society owned a tract of land consisting
of seventy-six acres, well equipped for a fair ground. In 1896 the buildings on the grounds were destroyed by a
heavy wind and Mr. Riehl, being a large stockholder, purchased the fair ground. For some time our subject has contemplated
putting the fair ground into a farm, as the land is well adapted to farming purposes, but as yet the ground is
still used for the fair. Mr. Riehl was united in marriage to Elizabeth Cressman, a daughter of Samuel B. Cressman,
of Bucks County, Pa., and our subject was called upon to mourn the loss of his beloved companion, who passed from
this life in 1887, at the age of fifty-nine years. One child was the result of their union, Lizzie, who died, aged
six months. Mr. Riehl purchased of Mrs. Susan Woodside the property at No. 9 East Front street; he has remodeled
and enlarged the same into a handsome residence. He is a member of the Danville Lodge No. 224, F. & A. M.;
Danville Chapter No. 239, R. A. M., and Calvary Commandery No. 37, K. T. ( Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth
Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY (1899),
pg. 308 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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GEORGE W. RISHEL, farmer and stock grower, P. O. Danville, was born within
half a mile of where he now resides, in Mahoning Township, July 24, 1825, a son of Solomon and Sarah (Harpine)
Rishel. His mother was born in Berks County, Penn. His father was a native of Mahoning Township, born in 1799,
a son of Martin Rishel, who was a soldier in the Revolution and came to this township soon after the close of that
struggle. He took up Government land, about 200 acres, cleared a farm and here passed the remainder of his life.
The farm is still in possession of the family, the deed for a part of it at present being the property of George
W. The family have generally been farmers. George W. was reared on the farm and educated in the subscription schools
in his native township. From his youth he has been successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits and owns two well
improved farms in Montour County, and three houses and lots in town. He married, in 1847, Susannah, daughter of
Hugh Cousart, of English and Irish origin. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Rishel are as follows: Peter, married and
a farmer; Sarah J., wife of Alfred Topson, a farmer; James C., married and a house plasterer by trade; William
E., married; Elizabeth A., wife of M. L. Leighow, railroad manager; H. C., a farmer and dairyman; George W., a
farmer; Charles H.; Arthur F. and Ella Virginia (deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Rishel are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, in which he has been a class leader, steward, trustee and Sabbath-school superintendent. Mr. Rishel's maternal
grandfather, David Harpine, was a colonel in the Revolution. Politically our subject is a Republican.(History
of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania", Battle, 1887 pg. 213 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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STEPHEN F. ROBERTS, farmer, P. O. Danville, was born in Mahoning Township,
Montour Co., Penn., July 10, 1814, son of Edward and Rebecca (Phillips) Roberts, natives of Montgomery County,
Penn., and of English and Welsh origin. Edward Roberts was a carpenter in early life, and finally settled on a
farm in Montour County. His family consisted of ten children, all of whom were reared in Montour County. Our subject
attended the common schools in Mahoning County, and remained on the farm with his parents until old enough to learn
the tailor's trade, but, on account of ill health, he has devoted his time to farming. Since 1849 he has resided
in Valley Township on the farm owned by A. F. Russel, and his heirs, of Danville. Mr. Roberts has farmed this property
for thirty-three years. He was married, in 1847, to Miss Margaret M., daughter of Stephen George, of Irish origin.
Their children now living are Eli W. and George E. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts are members of the Grove Presbyterian Church.
In politics he is a Republican, and has held nearly all of the offices in Valley Township; served three terms as
justice of the peace, and three terms as director, supervisor and tax collector.(History of Columbia and Montour
Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 219 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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ROBERT C. ROSS, Chicago, Ill. - Born at Washingtonville, Columbia (now Montour)
county; a student in modern languages and mathematics in 1834-5; in his youth he made the tour of Europe; has taught
for forty years, first at Milton, Danville and Lewistown, Pa., where, in '54, he was elected Superintendent of
Schools of Mifflin county, the first incumbent of the office; in '49 he received the degree of A.M. from Lafayette;
in '57 he removed to Indiana, and but recently reliquished teaching; he is now assisting his son, an artist; address
is 264 Wabash avenue, Chicago. (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. 327 Contributed by Vicki Hartman)
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DANIEL J. ROTE, retired cattle drover, Danville, was born in Northampton County,
Penn., October 16, 1812, a son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Larch) Rote, natives of Pennsylvania. The father was a
farmer all his life, and his ancestors were among the early German settlers of Pennsylvania. David J. is one of
a family of twelve children, eight of whom grew to maturity, and was reared in Northampton County, where he was
also educated in the early German schools. His English education has been acquired by his own efforts. He chose
farming as his occupation, but prior to that had been engaged in the blacksmithing trade. Later he engaged in the
cattle droving business, which has mainly occupied his attention, and at which he has been very successful. He
has been twice married; by his first wife, Rebecca Weaver, he had seven children. She died in 1845, and had been
married in 1836. Twelve years after the death of his first wife he married Lucy A. Crosby, who bore him one child,
and died February 25, 1881. Mr. Rote has retired from active business, and now resides in Danville. He is a member
of the Lutheran Church, in which he has been a deacon, and takes an active interest in that denomination. He is
a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the I. O. O. F.; politically he is a Republican. (History of Columbia
and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 168 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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WELLINGTON ROTE, cattle dealer, Danville, was born in Northumberland County,
Penn., a son of Daniel J. and Anna Rebecca (Weaver) Rote. He is the fourth child in order of birth, and was reared
on the farm, attended the common schools, and also Dickinson Seminary, at Williamsport. He first clerked in the
general store of Lewis Rote, at Mausdale, where he remained two years. In 1870 he embarked in general mercantile
business at Mausdale, and also dealt in coal; he then sold out and taught school eight or ten terms, in which vocation
he was successful. Since 1876 he has been engaged in the stock business. Politically he is a Republican, a member
of the I. O. O. F. and of the Masonic fraternity. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania,
Battle, 1887, pg. 168 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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ANDREW P. ROTH, superintendent of the Dairy and State Asylum Farm, Danville,
was born in Columbia County, Penn., August 21, 1841, a son of Lewis and Margaret (Palmer) Roth, natives of Northampton
County, Penn. His father was a farmer and died March 30, 1883, having been a resident of Columbia county since
1839. Andrew P. was the second in a family of five children, was reared on the farm and educated in the common
schools of Catawissa, and on arriving at manhood made the dairy business and farming his occupation. In 1866 he
was appointed superintendent of the poorhouse of Mahoning and Danville, which position he held until 1872. He was
then appointed superintendent of the farm and dairy of the State asylum, which position he still retains. In 1863
he married Hannah, a daughter of Charles Barnd, and of German origin. Their children are Lewis, Tamar, Margaret,
Ellen, Hannah Elizabeth, William P. and Lulu. Mr. and Mrs. Roth are members of the Reformed Church, in which he
is a deacon. In politics he is a republican.(History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle,
1887, pg. 214 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
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DAVID RUCKEL, agent for the P. R. R. & W. S. Express Company, Danville,
was born in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, November 21, 1841, a son of Joseph and Margaret (Whetmore) Ruckel, natives
of Columbia County, this State, and of German descent. The father followed agricultural pursuits all his life.
David is the youngest in a family of four sons and three daughters, and was reared on the farm, receiving his education
in the common schools, never attending more than six months in his life, and is therefore self-educated. He remained
with his parents on the farm until he was twenty years of age, when he went to Berwick, Columbia County, and learned
the shoemaker's trade. In 1862 he enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Thirty-second Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry,
and served nine months, the term for which he enlisted. He next enlisted in the One Hundred and Twelfth, Second
Artillery, was promoted sergeant, and June 30, 1864, was taken prisoner in front of Petersburg. He was removed
to Danville, Va., where he was kept a prisoner of war for eight months and nineteen days. He was then exchanged
and, after the war, returned to the farm, where he remained until 1867, when he moved to Danville and worked in
the rolling-mill until 1873. He was next employed with the raiload [sic] and express companies, and in 1882 was
appointed to his present position. In 1867 he married Miss Lucinda Nuss, of German descent. Two children were born
to them: Charles E., who is in the office with his father, and Ella L., deceased. Mrs. Ruckel is a member of the
German Reformed Church, and her son of the Episcopal. Mr. Ruckel is a member of the Masonic fraternity, politically
a Republican. (History of Columbia and Montour Counties Pennsylvania, Battle, 1887, pg. 168 Transcribed
by Tammy L. Clark)
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