ADAMS. The ancestor of the Adams family, of Ralpho Township, Northumberland County, was one of the earliest pioneers of that section. His descendants are still numerous there, among them being D. Monzo and Allison C. Adams, brothers, and their cousin, General G. Adams, who is proprietor of the Elysburg Hotel. We give some account of the earlier generations in this country. Casper Adams, their great-grandfather was the first of the family in this country. He was born April 25, 1755, at Langendiebach, Offenburg, Germany. Little is known of his early life. On coming to this country, he lived in Berks County, Pa., before coming to Northumberland County, where he was one of the earliest pioneers in Ralpho Township, owning several hundred acres of land there. He cleared some of his land and followed farming. He died Jan. 26, 1832, and is buried at St. Peter’s (the Blue) church in Ralpho Township. Casper Adams married, in Berks County, Elizabeth Hinkle, of that County, and they had a large family, six sons and six daughters, namely: Frederick (1792-1853), John, Samuel, Casper, Leonard, Peter, Nellie, (married George Startzel), Susanna (married Samuel Startzel), Elizabeth (married Gilbert Liby), Polly (married Peter Strausser), Maria (married Jacob Kreher) and Catharine (married Samuel Anspach). Casper Adams, fourth son of Casper and Elizabeth (Hinkle) Adams, was born April 10, 1796., on the homestead farm in Ralpho Township, and was there reared to farm life. When he became of age his father deeded 100 acres of land in Ralpho Township to him, this being the farm afterward occupied by his son George C., near the Blue church. Mr. Adams was a man of active mind, one who, interested himself in the general welfare as well as in the promotion of his own interests, and he was one of the foremost men of his locality for many years, well known as a stanch Democrat and as one of the most liberal supporters of the Blue church, with which he was identified all his life; he served as elder of that church and was one of the most, generous contributors toward the erection of the church edifice. He married Susanna Startzel (daughter of John), who was born March 14, 1800, and died Jan. 22, 1873; Mr. Adams died Jan. 28, 1882, and is buried at the Blue church. Their children were: Benjamin, who died in 1895, at the age of seventy-four years (his children were Edward, William F. and Lucinda); Daniel H.; Casper, deceased; George C.; David, born in 1830; Jacob, born in 1833, who died in 1895; Samuel, deceased; William; Elizabeth (deceased), who married William Smith; Susanna (deceased), who married William Klase; Polly, Mrs. Fry, deceased; Angelina, who married William Smith (both were suffocated in a well in Cleveland Township, Columbia Co., Pa.); and Harriet, deceased. Daniel H. Adams, son of Casper and Susanna (Startzel) Adams, was born in 1822 on the old homestead near Elysburg, in Ralpho Township. He followed farming all his life, owning a tract of about fifty acres near the Blue church, and in connection with his agricultural work engaged in lime burning. He died June 20, 1892. Mr. Adams married Sarah A. Pensyl, who was born in 1829, daughter of Leonard Pensyl, and died Jan. 4, 1908. They are buried at the Blue church. Twelve children were born to their union, viz.: Francis is a resident of Shamokin; John is deceased; Henry N. lives near Bear Gap, in Columbia County, Pa.; D. Alonzo is mentioned below; Leonard M. is a resident of Shamokin; Nathan G. is located at Paxinos; Allison C. is mentioned below; Marietta (deceased) was the wife of Frank Erdman, commissioner of Northumberland County; Emma married George Erdman; Elizabeth married Philip Richard and they live at Elysburg, Northumberland County; Lydia married Thomas Boughner, of Ralpho; Casper died young. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 608 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ADAM CORNELIUS ADAMS, son of Bernhard and Matilda, also a substantial farmer of Washington Township, was born Aug. 10, 1863, on the old homestead of the Adams family. He obtained his education in the Township schools, was reared to farm life, and assisted his father in horse dealing, butchering and huckstering in his earlier manhood. In the spring of 1888 he began farming for himself at the place where he now lives, a farm of 108 acres which formerly belonged to the Reitzes, first to Philip Reitz and later to his son Andrew Reitz. It is on the road between Rebuck and Greenbrier. Mr. Adams remodeled the house and enlarged it and in 1908 he built an addition to the large barn erected by Philip Reitz, who also built the house. Mr. Adams also owns forty acres of woodland, and his father’s old homestead of about 138 acres, which adjoins his own home farm, and which is one of the most valuable tracts in the Township. His son Clements now cultivates it. Mr. Adams is a Republican in politics, and he has held the position of supervisor of the Township for some time, still serving in that capacity. He and his family are Reformed members of Himmel’s Church, which he served as deacon and elder for a number of years. On July 1, 1887, Mr. Adams married Mary Crissinger, daughter of William and Susanna (Rebuck) Crissinger, of Washington Township, and they have had four children: Clements I., George C., Eugene F., and Mamie S. Clements I. Adams, who farms the old Adams homestead, married Annie Adams, of Shamokin, a very distant relative, and they have one son, Sydney. Nicholas Adam, the ancestor of a large number of this name, was a native of Berks County, born July 5, 1758, and coming to Northumberland settled in the Swabian Creek district in what is now known as Washington Township. He was a farmer, owning the farm which later became the property of Isaac Tryon, a large tract and he also owned what are now the farms of Nathan Adams, Mrs. James Troutman, Cornelius Adams and Galen Stepp, besides land along the Deep creek. In fact he was one of the most extensive landowners in his section. He died April 11, 1826, and is buried at Himmel’s Church or in a private burial ground. His death was caused by consumption. His sons were: John, who left children Gabriel and Nathaniel; Gideon, mentioned below; Absalom; Nicholas, who left children, Abraham, Nicholas, Adam, and daughters; Adam, who died unmarried; Bernhard, and several daughters. Gideon Adams, son of Nicholas, was born in the Swabian Creek district, was a plasterer, and followed his trade in addition to farming, having a tract of 120 acres located along the Middle creek in Washington Township. He was active in the interests of the locality, was a member of the Republican party, served as supervisor, and belonged to Himmel’s Church, in which he held office. His wife was a daughter of Solomon Campbell, and they had the following children: Elizabeth married Henry Welker; Julian married Jacob Welker, (brother of Henry); Polly died unmarried; Jeremiah is mentioned below; Molly married Benjamin Daniel. Jeremiah Adams, son of Gideon, is buried at Himmel’s Church, of which he was a Reformed member. He was the owner of the homestead farm, now the property of Helena Troutman. To him and his wife Hannah (Wentzel), daughter of Abraham Wentzel, were born the following children: Timothy married Louisa Kutz; Lucetta married Andrew Paul and (second) Andrew Brosius; Priscilla married Allen Wiest; Louisa married Tobias Strohecker; Elizabeth died young; Erisman married Sallie Adam; Jeremiah married Susan Wolfgang; James E. married Sarah J. Haag; Emanuel is mentioned below; Andrew M. married Ellen Brosius. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 848 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ALLISON C. ADAMS, also a farmer of Ralpho Township, was born Feb. 10, 1872, on the old homestead near the Blue church. His early education was gained at the Kaseman school and he remained with his father until about twenty-three years old. After working at milling about one year, near Danville, Montour County, he bought the old Haas farm from his brother, Nathan G. Adams, this place comprising seventy acres along the Center turnpike. It came into his possession in 1902, and he has since lived there and devoted his time to farming, in which he has been successful. He is a man of active disposition, identified in various ways with local affairs, holding various offices with distinct credit to himself and satisfaction to his fellow citizens. He has been auditor and school director of his Township, and is at present serving his second term as Township treasurer; he is also filling the office of Township clerk. Mr. Adams was elected justice of the peace for his Township, but never nerved. In politics a stanch Democrat, he has taken considerable interest in the workings of the party, and has acted as inspector of elections. He is a member of the P.O.S. of A., of the Patriotic Order of Americans, and of the Paxinos Band, in the organization of which, in July, 1907, he had an active part. He was one of the organizers of the Keystone Band, made up of young men of Ralpho Township, and continued to play with that band for seven years. In religion he belongs to the Reformed denomination, being a member of the Reformed congregation of the Blue Church.Mr. Adams married Emma Gelnett, daughter of Henry B. Gelnett, of Snyder County, Pa., and they have a family of four children: Verda M., Olive M., Helen T. and Oren A. George C. Adams, son of Casper and Susanna (Startzel) Adams, was born Aug. 17, 1826, upon the homestead in what is now Ralpho Township. He received such education as was obtainable in the schools of the period, and after reaching maturity engaged in railroad work. For some years he was also employed in the huckstering business and at farming for his father-in-law. In 1863 he purchased the old homestead property, where he continued to follow general farming throughout his active years. He died June 12, 1897, and is buried at the Blue church. His religious faith was that of the German Reformed denomination, and he served as elder of his congregation. In politics he was a Democrat but though interested in the success of the party took no part in its activities.On Sept. 12, 1855, Mr. Adams married Susanna Klase, daughter of Valentine Klase, of Shamokin, and she now resides with her son General G. Adams, in Ralpho Township. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Adams: Alvin A., who was killed on a railroad at Weigh Scales, when twenty-four years old; Leanna, who is married to Francis T. Borrell and resides in Reading, Pa.; Mahala, wife of Charles Paul, of Paxinos, and General G. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 610 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ANDREW ADAMS, son of Bernard and Matilda, is a well-to-do farmer of Washington Township, where he was born July 28, 1852. He attended subscription school near his home until the establishment of the public schools, in which he was a pupil for about eight winters. Reared to farm life, he worked for his parents until he became of age and about 1877 began farming at his present home, having a ninety-acre tract about two miles south of Rebuck. It was formerly a Schreffler farm, and earlier belonged to the Beissels, and the barn, which is very old, was built by a Beissel. There is a stone house on this farm now considerably over one hundred years old, being in fact the oldest landmark in this section. The wall is very substantial, and it is built over a good spring. The large frame house now used as a dwelling was erected by Mr. Adam about 1885. He has been a thrifty farmer and has done well, and he bears a high reputation among his neighbors and friends. He is an active church worker, he and his family belonging to the Reformed congregation at the Himmel Church which he is at present serving as elder; he formerly held the office of deacon. Mr. Adams is a Republican in politics. Mr. Adams was first married to Polly Brosius, who was born Jan. 20, 1851, daughter of Daniel and Sarah (Wenrich) Brosius, and died April 17, 1888; she is buried at Himmel’s Church. Of the children born to this union, Jemima died when eight months old; Eva married Daniel Price; and several died in infancy. For his second wife Mr. Adams married Mrs. Mary (Trautman) Hoffman, widow of George Hoffman, and they have had one son, Leon Thomas, of Washington Township, who married Sallie Schraeder and has one son, Daniel R ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 848 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

BERNARD E. ADAMS, proprietor of the “Anthracite Hotel,” at No. 118 South Market Street, Shamokin, and one of the best known residents of that busy city, was born in Upper Mahanoy Township, Northumberland County; in 1837, son of Gideon and Sarah (Eshman) Adams. There are numerous representatives of the Adam or Adams family in Northumberland County. Its history in America goes back to the first half of the eighteenth century, when Anthony Adam, a potter by trade, emigrated to these shores. He sailed from Rotterdam on the snow “Molly,” commanded by Capt. John Cranch, which vessel arrived at Philadelphia, and the passengers, having taken the oath of allegiance to the English sovereign, were qualified to land Oct. 26, 1741. Anthony Adam’s age is entered on the passenger list as twenty-five years, and one account says he was born in the Fatherland, another that he was a French Huguenot. On Feb. 7, 1748, he received from the proprietaries of the Province of Pennsylvania a warrant for a tract of 136 acres, 146 perches of land in Albany Township, Berks County, then a part of Philadelphia county. This land was surveyed for him by the surveyor general of the Province, June 6, 1752. It is probable that he settled in Albany Township immediately after his arrival in the New World, as he was a settler there in 1752, and he witnessed and participated in the trying times of the French and Indian wars. His farm is now in the possession of Nathan Weisner, of Round Top, Albany Township, Berks County. On Feb. 7, 1748, he also received a warrant for a tract of 135 acres, 47 perches “above Maxatawny,” and in 1761 he sold 140 acres of his land in Albany Township to John Reinhard. He was administrator of the estate of Albrecht Stimmel, of Albany Township, in 1766, being the chief creditor. His administration account was audited and approved in December, 1768. The date of death of Anthony (or Andoni, as he wrote his name) Adam, of Albany Township, is not known. Neither do we know the name of his wife, but it is known that he had sons: Abraham, Anthony and Bernhard, who moved to Schuylkill County, Pa.; and Peter. Nicholas Adam, the ancestor of a large number of this name, possibly another son of Andoni, was a native of Berks County, born July 5, 1756, and coming to Northumberland settled in the Swabian Creek district in what is now known as Washington Township. He was a farmer, owning the farm which later became the property of Isaac Tryon, a large tract; and he also owned what are now the farms of Nathan Adams, Mrs. James Troutman, Cornelius Adams and Galen Stepp, besides land along the deep creek. In fact, he was one of the most extensive landowners in his section. He died April 11, 1826, and is buried at Himmel’s church. His death was caused by consumption. His wife, Anna Maria, nee Kaler, born March 3, 1763, died Aug. 4, 1839. His sons were: John, who left children, Gabriel and Nathaniel; Gideon; Absalom, mentioned below; Nicholas, who left children, Abraham, Nicholas, Adam and daughters: Adam, who died unmarried; Bernhard; and several daughters. Absalom Adam, grandfather of Bernard E. Adams, was evidently a son of Nicholas, was born at Greenbrier, and lived to an advanced age, dying about 1849. He was a farmer, owning property which is still in the family name, the farm now owned by his grandson, Nathan Adams. He was a pioneer in Washington Township, where he came to live when the land was nearly all covered with timber, settling in the hills because he thought good hay could be grown in the valleys. The house in which he lived, near the mountain, stood for many years, being torn down by Nathan Adams in 1908. Mr. Adam and his family are buried at the Himmel church. His wife, whose maiden name was Wentzel, died before him, being stricken with paralysis while engaged in sweeping. She was advanced in years at the time. Ten children were born to this couple: Lesh married Mr. Williams; Eliza married James Anders, of Minersville; Rebecca married Abraham Bressler; Sallie married Peter Howerter; Jestina married Peter Baer; Hannah married Henry Schroeder; Gideon lived in the Mahantango Valley, but died in Shamokin, when over eighty years old; Nicholas is mentioned elsewhere; Adam lived many years in Shamokin, where he died when nearly seventy; John, who had lived in Illinois, died on the field of battle during the Civil war. Gideon Adams, son of Absalom, was born on the homestead in 1807, and died at Shamokin in 1890. He came to Shamokin about 1866, and led a retired life. He married Sarah Eshman, who died aged sixty-five years. Their children were: John H., mentioned below; Bernard E.; N. Albert; Harriet; Elizabeth, and Charlotte, all now deceased except Bernard. Bernard E. Adams has been the architect of his own fortune. His early life was spent on the home farm, and at the age of fourteen he went to live with Jacob Maurer as hired boy, and nine months later came to Shamokin, where he found work at the mason’s trade, building bridges for the Northern Central Railroad Company between Mt. Carmel and Sunbury. He next went to Stone Valley, where he was employed in a lime quarry, after which he worked for Gabriel Herb for some time. For several years he was engaged in huckstering. In 1873 he went to Locust Gap, and there worked at the stone mason’s trade until he came to Shamokin in 1865. From 1867 to 1876 he worked at his trade in Freeburg. For thirty-five years he has been in the hotel business at Shamokin, and is justly popular with his patrons. He also operated one of the largest marble yards in Shamokin for several years.In 1862 Mr. Adams enlisted in his country’s service, becoming a me mber of Company K, 172d Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served ten months. He is a member of Lincoln Post, G.A.R.; Shamokin Lodge, No. 255, F. & A.M.; Shamokin Chapter No. 264, R.A.M.; Shamokin Commandery, No. 77, K.T.; Bloomsburg Consistory, thirty-second degree; Rajah Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S., of Reading; and the Red Men. In politics he is a Republican. With his family he attends the Reformed Church. His home is on South Market Street. On Feb. 22, 1858, Mr. Adams was united in marriage with Anna Arnold, a native of Snyder County, Pa., daughter of Henry and Anna Arnold, of that county. Eleven children blessed this union Henry Franklin, deceased; Arthur R., at home; Percival A., deceased; J. Elmer, deceased; Charles O., a carpenter in Philadelphia; William Clyde, who died April 3, 1911; Bernard E. Jr., of Portland, Oregon; Sylvia, who married W. H. Happer; Warren E.; Anna J., wife of Howard Knapp, of Portland, Oregon; and Mabel F., who married Merton K. Sausser, of Shamokin. The mother of this family died May 9, 1911, at the age of seventy-two years. Shamokin was her home for over fifty years, and she was one of the oldest and most respected residents of that borough, well known to many and beloved of all who enjoyed her acquaintance. She was a member of Chapter No. 77, O.E.S., of Milton, of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Knights Templar, and of Trinity Lutheran church. She left twenty-five grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 634 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)
B. E. ADAMS, proprietor of the Anthracite Hotel, was born in Upper Mahanoy township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, in 1837, son of Gideon and Sarah Adams. His early life was spent upon a farm, and at the age of fourteen he went to live with Jacob Maurer as a hired boy. At the end of nine months he left his place, came to Shamokin, and was employed in building bridges on the Northern Central railway between Mt. Carmel and Sunbury. From Shamokin he moved to Stone Valley, where he worked in a lime quarry, and was subsequently employed by Gabriel Herb until he went into the huckster business. He kept at this business until his marriage February 22, 1858, to Anna, daughter of Henry and Anna Arnold, a native of Snyder county. They have had eleven children, eight of whom are living: Henry F.; Arthur R.; Percival A.; J. Elmer; W. Clyde; Charles O.; Bernard E.; Sylvia L.; Warren E.; Anna J., and Mabel F. Percival A. died, September 11,1890, at the age of twenty-six, and two of his brothers in early childhood. During the war he enlisted in the One Hundred and Seventy-second Pennsylvania Militia, and served nine months. In 1863 he went to Locust Gap and worked at the stone mason trade, which he has followed up to the present. Mr. Adams resided in Freeburg from 1867 till 1870, and during this time be erected the school house in that town and was engaged in much other mason work. He returned to Shamokin in 1870 and continued to work at his trade for several years, and also carried on a liquor store in connection with it. He subsequently engaged in the hotel business which he still carries on. He operates the largest marble works in Shamokin. Mr. Adams has been a life-long Republican, in which party he is a quiet but efficient worker. He is a member of Lincoln Post, G.A.R., and of Shamokin Lodge, F. & A.M., also of the Conclave, and belongs to the Tagneghdorn Tribe, No. 225. His father, who is eighty-three years old, resides with him, and the family are adherents of St. John's Reformed church. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 958 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JOHN H. ADAMS, elder brother of Bernard E., was born in Upper Mahanoy Township in 1834, and received his education in the public schools. From 1857 to 1863 he was engaged in the hotel business in Upper Mahanoy Township, but in the latter year he moved to Freeburg, Snyder County, and became a traveling salesman for John S. Lentz, wholesale liquor dealer. In 1871 he came to Shamokin, and for two years was engaged in a mercantile business. He then became a member of the firm of Adams, Haldeman & Co., wholesale liquor dealers, of Philadelphia, and in this he continued for five years. In 1878 he again came to Shamokin, and embarked in the mercantile business, part of the time alone and part with partners, being thus engaged until he sold out intending to retire. In a short time he again found himself drawn into the business world, and after a brief connection with the wholesale liquor firm of Charles F. Stadiger & Co., of Philadelphia, he established a business of his own on Market Street, Shamokin, where he continued until his death. In 1856 Mr. Adams married Ellehna H., daughter of Peter Beisel, and they had three children: John Q., attorney at law, now deceased; Emma R., widow of Thomas F. Foltz; and Martha J., wife of Francis A. Miller. Mr. Adams was a stanch Republican in politics, and held the office of justice of the peace. On June 6, 1859, he was commissioned a major in the State militia. Socially he belonged to Sunbury Lodge, No. 22, F. & A.M.; Shamokin Chapter, No. 264, R.A.M.; and Prince of Peace Commandery, K. T., of Ashland, Pennsylvania. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 635 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

MERRITT S. ADAMS, undertaker and furniture dealer at Watsontown, Northumberland County, has been a resident of that place since 1895 and engaged in business on his own account the greater part of the time. He was born Feb. 20, 1874, at Milesburg, Center Co., Pa., son of William Adams and grandson of Matthew Adams. Matthew Adams was for many years during his active life prominently associated with the iron industry, being long superintendent of the Curtin Iron Company and later superintendent of the Valentine Iron Company. Upon his retirement he removed to Howard, Pa., where he died. He married Elizabeth Carpenter, who bore him the following children: Thomas died in Milesburg, Pa.; Wesley died at Milesburg; Mary married Abram Elder, a surveyor; Jane married John Toner and, after his death, B. Liggett; Matthew died in Kansas City, Mo.; William is mentioned below; Sarah married Benjamin Liggett. William Adams was born Aug. 2, 1833, in Milesburg, Center Co., Pa., and died Oct. 18, 1879. He was a contractor, engaged in the sinking of oil wells, and many of the wells in Venango County, Pa., were drilled by him. He married Elizabeth Wright Forrester, daughter of James Forrester, and they had children as follows: Jennie T.; Mary, who died young; Merritt S.; Annie E.; Elizabeth W., who married Marshall Cameron, of Grand Rapids, Mich., where they reside. Merritt S. Adams received his early education in the public schools of Milesburg. He learned cabinetmaking with Alfred Green, and coming to Watsontown March 20, 1895, was for four years after his arrival in the borough employed by the late Enos Everitt, in the furniture and undertaking business, at the end of that period commencing on his own account. In 1903 Mr. Adams erected the substantial building on Main Street, in which his business has since been located, and which is one of the finest structures in the town. It is 50 by 70 feet in dimensions, three stories and basement, built of fine pressed brick and furnished in modern style, steam-heated and equipped with electric lights. The third floor is rented to Watsontown Lodge, F. & A.M., which has fine quarters there. Mr. Adams carries a fine stock of furniture and house furnishings of all kinds, and he is well prepared to handle the undertaking branch of the business, having two hearses and a number of carriages as well as all the modern appliances for embalming, etc. He is an energetic young business man, and has prospered deservedly. As a citizen he is held in favorable regard throughout the community, ever ready to assist any movement for the general welfare, for he considers it no hardship to serve his fellowmen and is a disinterested worker in all lines which promise to promote the public good. On Oct. 20, 1903, Mr. Adams married Ella C. Hech, daughter of Rev. Levi Hech, a Methodist minister, of Lock Haven, Pa. Their union has been blessed with one son, William Hech. Mr. and Mrs. Adams are members of the Methodist church, and he has for four years been superintendent of the Sunday school. Socially he belongs to the I.O.O.F., the Jr. O.U.A.M., the K.G.E. and the Modern Woodmen of America. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 384 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

NATHAN ADAMS, son of Nicholas and Elizabeth (Schreffler) Adams, was born Feb. 2, 1858. He obtained his education in the local subscription and common schools, and was reared to farm life, working for his parents until he became of age. Since 1890 he has farmed his present property, the old home place, having one hundred acres, sixty under cultivation. This property lies along the Middle creek. Mr. Adams sells his produce at Ashland, running a huckster route to that point where he makes weekly trips. Politically he is a Republican, and he and his family worship with the Reformed congregation at Himmel’s Church. Mr. Adams is a substantial citizen, and a much respected member of his community.On April 12, 1905, Mr. Adams married Mrs. Lena (Wolfgang) Klinger, daughter of Daniel Wolfgang and widow of George Klinger. She had six children by her first marriage: Oliver, William, Jennie, Mary (deceased), Annie and Edith. No children have been born to her union with Mr. Adams. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 850 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

NATHAN G. ADAMS, of Paxinos, Northumberland County, has established a substantial business as a dealer in agricultural implements and a manufacturer of wagons. His trade has grown steadily from the beginning. The stand is an old one. Mr. Adams is a comparatively recent comer to Paxinos, and previous to his removed hither was located at Bear Gap, in Ralpho Township, where he carried on a general mercantile business. Mr. Adams is a native of the County, born Feb. 1, 1866, in Ralpho Township, near what is now the Blue church, and he is a great-grandson of Casper Adams, the first of the family in this country. Casper Adams was born April 25, 1755, at Langendiebach, Offenburg, Germany. Little is known of his early life. On coming to this country he lived in Berks County, Pa., before coming to Northumberland County, where he was one of the earliest pioneers in Ralpho Township, owning several hundred acres of land there. He cleared some of his land and followed farming. He died Jan. 26, 1832, and is buried at St. Peter’s (the Blue) church in Ralpho Township. Casper Adams married, in Berks County, Elizabeth Hinkle, of that County, and they had a large family, six sons and six daughters, namely: Frederick (1792-1853), John, Samuel, Casper, Leonard, Peter, Nellie (married George Startzel), Susanna (married Samuel Startzel), Elizabeth (married Gilbert Liby), Polly (married Peter Strausser), Maria (married Jacob Kreher) and Catharine (married Samuel Anspach). Casper Adams, fourth son of Casper and Elizabeth (Hinkle) Adams, was born April 10, 1796, on the homestead farm in Ralpho Township, and was there reared to farm life. When he became of age his father deeded 100 acres of land in Ralpho Township to him, this being the farm afterward occupied by his son George C., near the Blue church. Mr. Adams was a man of active mind, one who interested himself in the general welfare as well as in the promotion of his own interests, and he was one of the foremost men of his locality for many years, well known as a stanch Democrat and as one of the most liberal supporters of the Blue Church, with which he was identified all his life; he served as elder of that church and was one of the most generous contributors toward the erection of the church edifice. He married Susanna Startzel (daughter of John), who was born March 14, 1800, and died Jan. 22, 1873; Mr. Adams died Jan. 28, 1882, and is buried at the Blue church. Their children were: Benjamin, who died in 1895, at the age of seventy-four years, (Edward, William F. and Lucinda were his children); Daniel H.; Casper, deceased; George C., born Aug. 17, 1826; David, born in 1830; Jacob, born in 1833, who died in 1895; Samuel, deceased; William; Elizabeth (deceased), who married William Smith; Susanna (deceased), who married William Klase; Polly, Mrs. Fry, deceased; Angelina, who married William Smith; and Harriet, deceased. Daniel H. Adams, son of Casper and Susanna (Startzel) Adams, was born in 1822 on the old homestead near Elysburg, in Ralpho Township. He followed farming all his life, owning a tract of about fifty acres near the Blue church, and in connection with his agricultural work engaged in lime burning. He died June 20, 1892. Mr. Adams married Sarah A. Pensyl, who was born in 1829, daughter of Leonard Pensyl, and died Jan. 4, 1908. They are buried at the Blue church. Twelve children were born to their union, viz.: Francis is a resident of Shamokin; John is deceased; Henry N. lives near Bear Gap, in Columbia county; D. Alonzo is on the old homestead in Ralpho Township; Leonard M. is a resident of Shamokin; Nathan G. is located at Paxinos; Allison C. is living in Ralpho Township; Marietta (deceased) was the wife of Frank Erdman, commissioner of Northumberland County; Emma married George Erdman; Elizabeth married Philip Richard and they live at Elysburg, Northumberland County; Lydia married Thomas Boughner, of Ralpho; Casper died young. Nathan G. Adams attended the Kaseman school in Ralpho Township. He was reared to farm life, remaining at home with his father for some time after his school days were over. His first employment away from home was with the Philadelphia & Reading Railway Company, in whose employ he remained about twelve years, being engaged as track foreman and having charge of the Weigh Scales division. Establishing himself as a general merchant at Bear Gap, in Ralpho Township, he continued business there for seven years, at the end of that time selling out to J. W. Marks and removing to Paxinos, in Shamokin Township, where he bought out A. C. Bobb. Here he has since been engaged as a dealer in implements, also manufacturing wagons, finding a steady demand in both lines in this community. His square methods and satisfactory transactions have won him a growing patronage. He has been quite active in the community since taking up his residence there, and is considered a substantial citizen. He has business interests also in Bear Gap, being president of the Bear Gap & Numidia Telephone Company.Mr. Adams married Daisy Yocum, daughter of Obadiah Yocum, of Cleveland Township, Columbia Co., Pa., and they have had a family of six children: Grace, Malcolm, Frederick, Earl (who died March 14, 1911), Sarah and Lewis. Socially Mr. Adams holds membership in Elysburg Lodge, No. 414, F. & A.M., and in the P.O.S. of A., Camp No. 189. In religion he adheres to the Reformed faith, being a member of the Blue Church (St. Peter’s). He is a Democrat in politics, and while in Ralpho Township served as constable and auditor. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 252 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

TOBIAS ADAMS, son of Nicholas and Elizabeth (Schreffler) Adams, was born May 20, 1850, on the old homestead. He attended school until he was sixteen years old, studying at the subscription schools then conducted in the neighborhood, and the instruction was entirely in the German language. Working for his parents until about the time he attained his majority, he afterward worked for other farmers for three and a half years. He owns a thirty-five-acre farm one mile east of Rebuck, in Washington Township, which was formerly an Eyster homestead and later the property of Rev. Augustus Bergner, Mr. Adams’s father-in-law. On Jan. 26, 1873, Mr. Adams married Odelia Bergner, daughter of Rev. Augustus and Augusta (Feltdrop) Bergner, natives of the vine region of the Fatherland; their eldest child was born before they came to America, the others in this country, their family consisting of six children, Louisa, Francis, Hetrich, Amelia, Luther and Odelia. Rev. Mr. Bergner was a Lutheran minister, and preached at Mahanoy and in all the other Lutheran churches in that section. To Mr. and Mrs. Adams were born seven children: Francis; Flora and Rosa, twins, the former the wife of Rufus Schwalm, the latter the wife of Robert Schmeltz; Henry, who died when five years old; Katie and Amelia, twins, the latter married to William Griffith; and Monroe. The mother died Dec. 5, 1906, aged fifty-eight years, five months, twenty-three days, and is buried at the Himmel Church. Mr. Adams and his family worship with the Reformed congregation at Himmel’s Church, where he is now serving his second term as elder. He was a deacon for some years. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 850 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JOHN T. ALBRIGHT, late of Turbut Township, Northumberland County, was in his lifetime one of the respected citizens of his section, where he followed farming for many years. He was a native of Lehigh County, Pa., born in 1832, and came to Northumberland County with his parents when a boy. Mr. Albright learned the trade of bricklayer, which he continued to follow throughout his active years, and as such assisted in building The Baptist church at Turbutville. In his later life he followed farming near the Paradise church in Turbut Township. He died in 1894, aged sixty-two years, two months, four days.In 1856 Mr. Albright married Mary E. Huntsinger, who was born Dec. 18, 1838, daughter of Rudolph and Mary (Heuelrich) Huntzinger, and granddaughter of Jacob Huntzinger, a native of Lebanon County, Pa., where he died. Jacob Huntzinger married Elizabeth Bowman, and they had children: Rudolph, Harry, Martin, Jacob, Peter, Mary E. and Catharine. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. John T. Albright: David L. married Rosa Klapp and has one child, Ella (they reside in Lewis Township, this county); Mary A. married Aug. F. Heller and has two children, Bertha and Jessie; Charles M., who is engaged in farming his father’s old homestead, married Susan F. Klapp and has two children, Florence K. and Edna M. The mother of this family, Mrs. Mary F. (Huntzinger) Albright, died Jan. 21, 1911, at her home in Turbut Township, and was buried in the cemetery of Paradise Reformed Church, where Mr. Albright is also interred. He was a member of that church, and he and his wife were among the most esteemed residents of their community.( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 901 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JOSEPH ALBRIGHT, who has been living retired at Watsontown for a number of years, has had his residence at that place since the close of the Civil war. He was born July 6, 1836, at Allentown, Lehigh Co., Pa., son of Charles S. Albright and grandson of Joseph Albright. The Albright family has had many creditable associations with the history of the Dutch in Pennsylvania. Christian Albright emigrated from Germany and settled in what is now the upper part of Berks County, Pa., married Elizabeth Rick:, and had children: Peter R. (who died in Schuylkill County), Solomon R., John Christian, Henry R., Jacob R., Daniel R., John R., John George and Justus Yost R. John Christian Albright son of Christian, was born Feb. 26, 1748, and died Feb. 28, 1820. He was twice married, first to Maria Elizabeth Althouse, born May 27, 1776, died in May, 1799, and second to Maria Kauffman. His children, all by the first marriage, were: Maria Catharine, Anna Maria, Annie Magdalena, George, John Jacob, John, Solomon, Gabriel and Elizabeth. Of these Maria Catharine married George Wagner and had children, Daniel, Benjamin, Kate, Elias, George, Elizabeth, Samuel, Solomon, William and Lucy. Anna Maria married Jacob Shartle, and had children, George, William, Sallie, Eliza, Maria and Julian. Annie Magdalena married George Kauffman, and had two children, Hettie and Samuel. John Albright married Elizabeth Ruby and had two children, Samuel and Leah. Solomon Albright married (first) Maria Miller and (second) Elizabeth Shoemaker, and his children were: John, Henry, Gen. Charles, Mary, Eliza, Kate and Harriet. Elizabeth married Joseph Kauffman and had three children, William, Harrison and Kate (Mrs. John Grime). John Jacob married Maria Shartle and had seven children, Sarah, William, John, Jacob S., Daniel, and Moses and Elizabeth (twins). Joseph Albright grandfather of Joseph Albright of Watsontown, settled in Lehigh County, Pa., and is buried in the vicinity of Allentown. His wife’s maiden name was Yund. They had children: Mrs. Biggert, of Allentown; James, who died in Allentown; and Charles S. Charles S. Albright was born at Allentown and married there. He was a tailor by trade, but followed farming for many years, moving to a place near Catawissa, Columbia County, where he farmed until he sold out and settled near Washingtonville, Montour County, owning a seventy-five-acre farm on which he died in 1867, at the age of fifty-nine years, nine months. He is buried at Strawberry Ridge Church. He was a Lutheran in religion. His wife, Esther (Newhart), who came from Lehigh County, died in 1882, at the age of eighty-one years. They were the parents of twelve children: George W., of the state of Washington; John T., who died at Paradise Northumberland County, Pa.; Thomas D., who entered the service during the Civil war and died while a prisoner at Florence, S. C.; Joseph; Anna Mrs. Ramson of Iowa; Charles F., who died in Iowa; Hettie, who was married three times, to Benson Carl, Christopher Herr and Reuben Clapp respectively; Henry A., who died when three years old; Alexander, deceased; Catharine, who died aged fourteen years; Elizabeth, who is unmarried and lives with her sister, Mrs. Clapp; and Jacob, deceased. Joseph Albright was educated in Columbia County, and was twenty years old when he commenced to learn the plastering trade, coming to Northumberland County in 1856. He followed his trade until the Civil war period, when he enlisted in August, 1862, in Company B, 131st Regiment, with which he served ten months. During this time he was in the second battle of Bull Run, in the engagements at Monocacy, South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. His second enlistment was in February, 1864, in Company K, 112th Regiment, 2d Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, for three years, and he served to the close of the war, taking part in the battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, etc. On June 16-18, 1864, the command was established in front of Petersburg, where he received two bullet wounds, fighting hand to hand and standing up to his waist among the dead and wounded. At Cold Harbor, while he was reloading his rifle, a bullet stripped the skin from his nose. On July 30th, at the mine explosion, he was captured, and was held eight months in the prison at Danville, being transferred to Libby prison, from which he was exchanged March 10, 1865. He was then brought to Annapolis, and sent to Baltimore hospital, where he remained several weeks in a serious condition, weighing less than sixty-five pounds. He was brought to Sunbury in this sad condition, and thence to the “Huff House” at Milton, more dead than alive; he laid between life and death from April 2d to Oct. 2d, 1865, but eventually recovered, though his improvement was very gradual. His army experience was trying and full of hardships, and he saw active service in some of the most important battles or the war. At Fredericksburg his brigade was nearest to the heights where the Confederate line was posted. After the war Mr. Albright worked at his trade for a year, and then, having some property at Watsontown, he engaged in business there, keeping a livery stable for eight years. Then he returned to his trade, which he continued to follow until 1881. From 1883 until 1890 he was confined to bed or chair, with illness contracted during the time he was in his country’s service, but he has since recovered. Though always occupied with his business affairs during his more active years Mr. Albright found time to serve his community, holding the offices of overseer of the poor, constable and collector with satisfaction to all concerned. He is a Republican in political faith, and in religion a member of the Methodist church, in the welfare of which he has been much interested, having acted as president of the board of trustees of his church. He also holds membership in the Grand Army of the Republic.In December, 1858, Mr. Albright married Mary Ann McCurley Tate, of Milton, who was born March 28, 1840, daughter of John and Nancy (Holder)Tate; who lived at Milton. Four sons were born to this marriage: David T., who lives in Milton; John S. (of Watsontown) and Elmer C. (deceased), twins, and William N., of Watsontown. Mrs. Albright was killed in a trolley accident at Philadelphia Aug. 26, 1902, aged fifty-nine years. In August, 1907, Mr. Albright married (second) Ella Blue, daughter of Isaiah and Phoebe Agnes (Taggart) Blue. Isaiah Blue married for his second wife Emma Falls Wetzel, by whom he had two children, David and Gertrude. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 371 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JOSEPH ALBRIGHT, retired, was born at Allentown, Pennsylvania, July 6, 1836, son of Charles S. and Esther (Newhart) Albright. The father of our subject was a tailor by trade, but was engaged in the latter part of his life in farming. He died in 1867, his widow in 1881. They were the parents of twelve children; eleven grew to maturity, and six are now living: George W., of Oregon; John T.; Joseph; Charles F., of Iowa; Esther, and Lizzie. The subject of our sketch received his education at the public schools, and at the age of twenty learned the trade of plasterer. He came to this county in 1856, and worked at his trade until August, 1862, when he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served nine months. He again enlisted in February, 1864, in Company K, One Hundred and Twelfth Heavy Artillery, and served until the close of the war. He was taken prisoner at Petersburg, July 30, 1864, and was confined in Danville and Libby prisons until March 10, 1865. After the war he worked at his trade one year, engaged in the livery business eight years, and returned to his trade until 1881. He was married in December, 1858, to Mary A. Tate, of Milton, and to this union were born four children: David; John S. and Elmer C., twins, and William N. Mr. Albright and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and he is a member of the G.A.R. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 1079 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JOHN E. ALLEN, superintendent of the silk mills at Shamokin conducted by J. H. & C. K. Eagle, has a responsible connection with one of the important industries of the borough, and has been engaged in that line of work practically all his life, ever since he began to earn his own living. He is a native of Paterson, N.J., born Oct. 22, 1872, son of Peter Allen, who was born in England and came to America when a young man. He located at Paterson, N.J., where he was engaged in the silk business. John E. Allen attended the public schools of his home district, and when a youth of seventeen began to work in a silk mill, on the floor. He was employed at different mills while acquiring his extensive knowledge of the business, and in time entered the employ of Bamford Brothers, at Paterson, as superintendent, remaining with this well known concern for a period of eighteen years. The Bamfords have mills at Paterson and Belvidere, in New Jersey, and at Wilkes-Barre, in Pennsylvania. In April, 1909, Mr. Allen came to Shamokin to assume the duties of his present position at the Eagle mills, where he has proved himself well qualified for his work. He is a self-made man, intelligent, industrious and enterprising, and by close application to his calling has become thoroughly versed in the work in its various branches, being. considered a valuable employee. Mr. Allen is a well known member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Warren Lodge, No. 13, F. & A.M., of Belvidere, N.J., of which he is a past master; to Shamokin Chapter, No. 264, R.A.M.; Williamsport Consistory, thirty-second degree; and to the Temple Club at Shamokin. In religious connection he is a Presbyterian. Mr. Allen married Ella Cole, of Belvidere, N.J., and they have had three children: Myrta, Roy D. and H. Marion. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 819 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

C. EDWARD ALLISON, M.D., of Elysburg, Northumberland County, has been practicing medicine at that place for over ten years, and has a large patronage, having been successful from the time of his settlement in this district. He is a native of Adams County, Pa., born May 17, 1871, at Gettysburg. The family is of Scotch-Irish extraction, James Allison, the first of this line to come to America, having emigrated from Ireland or Scotland. It is not known where he settled, but his son Francis lived in Frederick County, Md., about five miles east of Emmitsburg. Thence he moved to Adams County, Pa. His wife, Ruth Thompson, was also of Scotch-Irish descent. Francis Allison, son of Francis, was born in June, 1794, in Adams County, Pa., and there lived and died. All his family were born and reared there. He became a landowner and farmer in Mount Joy Township, Adams Co., Pa., near the Mason and Dixon line. He married Hannah Mieksell, who was born near Emmitsburg, Md., and was of German descent; her mother’s maiden name was Catharine Rudolph. Mr. and Mrs. Francis Allison are buried in the Mount Joy Lutheran churchyard. Their children were: Jonathan L., of Taneytown, Md.; Samuel M.; Mary A., who married Amos Yeatts, and died in Carlisle, Pa.; Sarah, who married William Lightner; Catherine, who married Samuel D. Reck; and Martha, who died when twenty years old. Samuel M. Allison, son of Francis, was born in Mount Joy Township, Adams County, and followed agricultural pursuits for a number of years, living first upon the homestead and later buying a farm near Gettysburg which he occupied for some time. He now lives in the town of Gettysburg. He married Anna M. Schwartz, daughter of Jacob Schwartz, and they had the following children: C. Edward; Herbert A., who is a professor at Susquehanna College, Selinsgrove, Pa.; and Cordelia. C. Edward Allison received his literary education in the public schools and at Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg, graduating from that institution in 1893, with the degree of A. B. Following his college course he spent some time in Kansas and Oklahoma, and upon his return from the West was engaged in teaching for one year. He then entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Baltimore, later continuing his medical studies at Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, where he was graduated in 1899. His first year of independent practice was spent at Jeddo, Luzerne Co., Pa., after which he was at Mount Carmel, Northumberland County, a short time before locating at Elysburg, in September, 1900. There he succeeded to the practice of the late Dr. Samuel F. Gilbert, who died in August, 1900, and who was a prominent physician there for twenty-five years. Dr. Allison has been popular at Elysburg throughout the period of his residence there, and though a busy man professionally he has endeavored to be a useful member of the community in other ways. He is serving as road supervisor of Ralpho Township at the present time. Dr. Allison is a thirty-second-degree Mason, belonging to Elysburg Lodge, No. 414, F. & A.M. (of which he is a past master), and to Bloomsburg Consistory (thirty-second degree). He also holds membership in the I.O.O.F., and in professional connection is a member of the Northumberland County Medical Society, etc. He is a Republican in political sentiment. His ancestors have been Lutherans and Presbyterians as far back as they have been traced. On Sept. 5, 1907, Dr. Allison married Amy E. Gilbert, daughter of the late Dr. Samuel F. Gilbert.( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 207 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ROBERT B. AMMERMAN, farmer, was born, July 18, 1834, at Lockport, Northampton county, Pennsylvania. He came with his parents to Northumberland county in 1841. He was educated in the public schools, at an early age commenced teaching, and subsequently engaged in the fruit business. He served in Company F, Thirty-sixth Pennsylvania Militia, from June 29, 1863, until the following August. In 1864 he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Eighty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. He was in the following engagements: Petersburg, Strawberry Plain, Weldon Railroad, Cold Harbor, and Ream's Station. August 25,1864, he was shot in the left thigh with a musket ball, was taken prisoner, and sent to Libby prison, where he remained about ten days. He was paroled and sent to St. John's hospital, Maryland, and discharged, June 12, 1865, at Summit House hospital. He then returned to his home and was engaged with his father in the mercantile business from 1866 until 1875, and then embarked in his present occupation. Mr. Ammerman was married, September 12, 1865, to Matilda, daughter of C. J. Reed, and by this union they are the parents of four sons: Gillman C.; William G.; Joseph C., and Lloyd R. Mr. Ammerman is a member of Bruner Post, G.A.R., and of the Baptist church. Politically he is a Republican. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 1206 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

WILLIAM S. AMMERMAN, deceased, was born in Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, February l5, 1809, and at the age of eight years he went to live with an uncle in Northampton county. In 1841 he returned to this county and settled in Rush township, but subsequently removed to Shamokin township and located upon the land where his son Robert B. now resides. He later established a store at this place, which he carried on some nine years. He married Juliana Bachman, and by this union they were the parents of one son, Robert B. In politics Mr. Ammerman was a Republican and served as school director he was a Baptist, and served in the office of deacon many years. His death occurred, July 20, 1875; his widow survives, and resides with her son Robert B. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 1205 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

BENJAMIN APPLE, editor and proprietor of the Sunbury Daily Item, and of The Sunbury American, a weekly paper, and present postmaster of Sunbury, has been engaged in the newspaper business since 1904, previous to which time he had for a number of years been prominently identified with the educational interests of the community. Mr. Apple was born June 28, 1868, one mile west of Freeburg, Snyder Co., Pa., son of Benjamin and Martha (Graybill) Apple, and grandson of George Apple and of Rev. Christian Graybill. His paternal ancestors in this region came from Montgomery County. He was the youngest child and only son of his parents, who had also three daughters. Mr. Apple was only a year old when his father died. Living and working upon the farm in his boyhood and early youth, he was thrown upon his own resources at the age of fourteen years, and earned the money necessary to continue his education besides supporting himself. He attended the country public schools up to that age, and then entered Freeburg Academy, from which he was graduated in 1884. For four years he taught public school at Freeburg; graduated from the State Normal school at Bloomsburg in 1889 and was elected assistant principal of the East Sunbury public schools, the duties of which position he assumed in the fall of that year. In 1894 he was elected principal of the East Sunbury schools, in which capacity he served two years. Upon the consolidation of the boroughs of Sunbury and East Sunbury, in 1896, he was promoted to the Central high school, where he had charge of the mathematical department until the spring of 1899, when he was elected to the office of county superintendent of schools for Northumberland County. When reelected to that position, in 1902, he received a flattering support, only seven votes being polled against him. Mr. Apple began his career as a newspaper man in 1904 when he purchased the Sunbury Daily Item and American, which he has since continued to publish, as editor and proprietor. The plant is located at No. 42 South Second Street, Sunbury. The printing department also makes a specialty of high grade job work. The manner in which Mr. Apple entered upon his new line fully demonstrated his ability. Under his management the Daily Item has become one of the leading newspapers in this section of the State, and the circulation has more than doubled. During the same time it has grown from a seven-column, four-page paper to an eight-page issue, and the advertising business has kept pace with modern ideas in that line, the patronage which the paper receives from business people showing conclusively its standing in conservative but progressive circles. As an editor, Mr. Apple deserves the prestige he enjoys, being influential and trusted by the best element in the community. During the year 1910 he was appointed supervisor of the census of the Sixteenth Congressional district of Pennsylvania, comprising the counties of Northumberland, Sullivan, Montour and Columbia. On April 13, 1911, he was appointed postmaster of Sunbury for a period of four years. On June 2, 1892, Mr. Apple married Lillie E. Moyer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George K. Moyer, and they have one son, John. Mr. Apple is a member of Zion Lutheran Church of Sunbury, of which he has been a deacon for fifteen years.( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 301 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

GEORGE P. and HARRY W. ARMSTRONG, constituting the firm of G. P Armstrong & Bro., are proprietors of the leading general merchandise store and are among theforemost of the prosperous business men of McEwensville, Northumberland County,Pa. They are sons of Gen. George W. and Elizabeth (Witter) Armstrong, and are members of an old and well-established family of Northumberland County. Their earliest known ancestor was James Armstrong, a native of Ireland, who taught school and engaged in surveying in that country. He was a well-educated man, and on June 1, 1786, came to America, locating in Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pa. He brought with him the following high recommendation from business and professional men, an excellent testimonial as to his character:

We, the under-named Provost, Burgess, and Freemen of the aforesaid corporation, do certify that the bearer, James Armstrong, was born and bred in the neighborhood of this Corporation, of Protestant parents; that he always behaved himself soberly and industriously, practicing the business of a Land Surveyor, with many other businesses of trust, which he punctually discharged to the satisfaction of his employers. In testimony where of we have affixed the seal of our Corporation. Given under our hands this twenty-fifth day of May, One Thousand Seven Hundred and Eighty-six.

The bearer. James Armstrong, was born on my estate, in County Fermanagh, of reputable parents, and has always behaved himself regularly and soberly.

James Armstrong, above mentioned, served as clerk to my church twelve years, last April, and behaved himself soberly and well and was schoolmaster to my parish of Ennis McSaint, otherwise Churchhill, for five years, and declined teaching school on getting employment as Surveyor of Land, which was of more advantage to him than teaching school. Given under my hand this thirty-first day of May, 1786.

N. B.—I have promised to restore him to his clerkship if he returns in twelvemonths' time.
The bearer, James Armstrong, of Cossbystown, who is now about to set out for America, acted in a place of trust and authority for me for seven years past, and acquitted himself with as much honesty and integrity as I could expect or wish for. Given under my hand this 3Oth day of May, 1786, six.

I have known the above mentioned James Armstrong for some time, and I believethe above to be true.

Mr. Armstrong readily procured a position as instructor in the Carlisle High School as teacher of mathematics. While residing in Carlisle he married Eleanor Pollock, who was born February 7, 1760, and died February 26, 1823. She was a daughter of John Pollock, who also came to this country and made his home in Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pa. He was a son of Dr. Thomas Pollock, whose ancestors were from Renfrewshire, Scotland. Mrs. Armstrong fell heir to a tract of 200 acres of land in Northumberland County, the place now owned by Merritt Sanster, which adjoins McEwensville, and her husband then resigned his position and located thereon. He followed farming until his death, on September 20, 1829. James Armstrong was the progenitor of the following children: Anthony, the grandfather of our subjects. Elizabeth, who was born November 11, 1789, and died on July 5, 1861, married George Blain, and had five children; Ellen, who married Jacob Hosteller; Prudence, the wife of J. D. Brittain; James, whose wife was Elizabeth Amans; Jane; and Mary, the wife of Henry Martin. Eleanor, the third child of James and Eleanor Armstrong, was born July 28, 1791, and died on September 22 of the same year. Eleanor, the fourth child born to her parents, was born on August 8, 1792, and died on February 7, 1857, married Andrew Guffey, and their children were: Margaret, the wife of J. P. Armstrong; Andrew J., who married Mary M. Falls; James, who married Elizabeth Shannon; Harriet, the wife of S. C. Frymire; Clarissa; Richard, who married Hester McKee; and Eleanor. Catherine, the fifth child, was born September 26, 1793, and died November 9, 1857. John, born December 18, 1795, died April 2, 1863. Jane, born October 25, 1798, died September 14, 1844. James, who was born December 3, 1800, and died on October 15, 1871, married Mary Reeder, and they were the parents of the following children: Dr. Richard, whose wife was Mary Kensing; Margaret E.; George B., who married Emma Axtell; William; and Mary, the wife of Frank Morgan. Mary, the ninth child born to James and his wife Eleanor, was born September 9, 1803, and died April 20, 1879. Richard, who was born April 13, 1805, became a missionary, going to the Sandwich Islands in 1832, where he established the first church. He followed his calling there and accomplished much good, but his life was cut short in 1860, when he was thrown from his horse and killed. His wife and daughter, Amelia, established a school at Oakland, Cal., for the education of the Chinese, and his son, Samuel, established the institute at Hampton, Va., for the education of Indians and Negroes. He married Clarissa Chapman, and their union was blessed by the birth of eight children, namely: Caroline; Carrie, the wife of Edmund Beckwith; Samuel; William N.; Ellen; James; Clara; and Amelia. Anthony Armstrong, the grandfather of our subjects, was born on September 6, 1788, and early in life was engaged in teaming from Milton to Philadelphia, before the existence of railroads in that section or before the canal was built. He hauled produce and provisions down to market and returned with a stock of merchandise, the trip being three weeks long. He subsequently took to agricultural pursuits and continued at that the remainder of his life, dying in January, 1868. Politically he was a firm Democrat. He was appointed captain of the Northumberland Cavalry Troop, it being organized in 1824, by Gov. J. Andrew Shultze, the first in the county. He married Elizabeth Guffey, who died in 1832. Several years afterward he married Martha Conley, who died in 1878. His union with his first wife resulted in the following offspring: Jane, the wife of Edwin V. Derickson. Matilda A. was the wife of Judge John F. Dentler, by whom she had ten children, namely: Mary E., the wife of P. Mellick; Harry C.; Wallace W.; Jane E., the wife of J. N. Sloan; John M.; James D.; Julia, the wife of William Withers; Jessie F., the wife of Alfred Bagney; Maggie M., who married Leidy Morelock; and Sally M. (Gifford). Margaret, the third daughter of Anthony and Elizabeth Armstrong, was the wife of John Sloan. Andrew married Angeline Watson, and their children were: James; Elizabeth, the wife of H. Allen; Anthony, who married Kate Grifey; David, who married Jane McWilliams; Mary, the wife of Frederick Gosh; and Emma. James F., the fifth child of Anthony and Elizabeth, married Margaret Guffey, and they were the parents of the following children: Hannah; Mary; Lizzie, the wife of Henry Nye; Henry; Samuel; Clara; Scott; and Hattie. George W. is the father of the gentlemen whose names head these lines. General George W. Armstrong was born, July 31, 1822, in Turbot township, Northumberland County, Pa., and received a good education in Milton Academy and the public schools. He taught school for two terms and at the age of eighteen years went into the office of the Ledger at Milton, where he learned the printer's trade and subsequently became a part-owner of the publication. In 1844 he disposed of it to J. R. Eck and enlisted in Company C, 2nd Reg., Pa. Vol. Inf., serving in the Mexican War until August of the same year, when he received his discharge in order to accompany the remains of Gen. R. H. Hammond to his home at Milton, Pa. He then became one of the proprietors of the Palladium of Bordentown, N. J., and after disposing of his interest there moved to Pottsville, Pa., where he was associated with G. L. Vliet, Esq., in publishing The True Democrat. After a period of two years, in 1849, he moved to McEwensville, and in the following year began clerking in the store of Dentler & Armstrong, in which capacity he continued until 1859, when he embarked in business on his own account. He purchased the Watson & Vincent store, which was built in 1828, and also the residence adjoining, which was built by the same firm in 1832. His business was begun on a small scale, but as his patronage grew he increased his stock and facilities for handling the trade of his customers, occupying two floors of the building. He became the leading merchant in the village and one of the largest in the district, and continued in a prosperous manner until 1890, when he retired in favor of his sons, who now operate the store. They have a first-class store in every respect and enjoy the confidence and respect of the community to a marked degree. Gen. Armstrong served as postmaster of McEwensville for about eight years and has served as school director for twenty-eight years, still continuing in that capacity. In 1853 he was commissioned first lieutenant in the Northumberland County Cavalry Troop by Gov. Bigler, was commissioned second lieutenant, in 1854, and one year later was made a captain. Ever since the time of James Armstrong the family have been strict adherents to the faith of the Presbyterian Church. The father of our subject was united in hymeneal bonds with Elizabeth Witter, who was born July 1, 1822, a daughter of Amos Witter, who came from near Westfield, Mass., and settled at Milton at an early day. The Witter family traces its ancestry back to one Capt. Ebenezer Witter, who was a native of Westfield, Mass. He served as a captain in the Revolutionary War, and on page 20 of the "Lexington Alarm List" from the town of Preston, Conn., may be found his record. He was born September 11, 1732, and was three times married. His first wife was Amy Meref, to whom he was married June 2, 1757, and from this union the Cook family descended. His second union occurred September 22, 1763, with Abigail Geer, and in 1796 he married for his third wife Hannah Page. The family record is very incomplete, but it is thought that Mrs. Armstrong is a descendant of Capt. Witter's second union. In connection with Francis Ball, under the firm name of Witter & Ball, Amos Witter engaged in the manufacture of carriages on Walnut street previous to the year 1840, and became a prominent man of that locality. He was a major of the state militia. He instituted the first lodge of Masons at Milton, and was the first grand master; he was also a member of the Odd Fellows' Lodge. He lived to reach the advanced age of seventy-five years, and his wife died at the age of forty-five years. His wife's maiden name was Mary Delevan, and their union resulted in the following issue: Amos; Albert; Henry; Hammond; Jane; Lucy; Amelia; Elizabeth; and Margaret. Gen. Armstrong and his wife were the parents of five children: Lucy Blanche, the wife of William F. Dewitt; Matilda, the wife of James Buoy; George P.; Annie; and Harry W. George P. Armstrong was born in McEwensville, Pa., May 3, 1854, and received his education in the McEwensville Academy, after which he taught school for ten years. He took up the trade of a plasterer and followed that occupation for some years; he also spent one year prospecting in the West. He clerked in a general merchandise store and after acquiring the requisite amount of experience, in 1890, became a partner with his brother, Harry, in conducting the store formerly owned by his father. He is a shrewd, clever business man, and has been very successful. He has held many minor offices of the borough and is now serving as assessor. Socially he was formerly a member of the Odd Fellows' Lodge. Harry Witter Armstrong was born September 18, 1861, in McEwensville, and was educated in the academy at that place. He served as a clerk in his father's store and for a number of years prior to the latter's retirement had complete charge of the store. 'He has followed that line of business continuously since. He became a partner to his brother in 1890, and by their honest and straightforward methods of dealing with the public they have acquired an enviable reputation for their establishment. Harry Witter Armstrong was appointed postmaster and served under both of Cleveland's administrations. Religiously he is a member of the Warrior Run Presbyterian Church and is trustee of that organization. He is one of the popular men of the village and has many friends throughout the county. (Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY, 1899 , pg. 741 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

G. W. ARMSTRONG, merchant, McEwensville, was born in Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, July 30, 1822, son of Anthony and Elizabeth (Guffy) Armstrong. His grandfather, James Armstrong, immigrated from Ireland to this country, and settled at Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where he was teacher of mathematics in the high school. In 1785 he engaged in the mercantile business at Northumberland, this county, and later at McEwensville. Anthony, his son, a farmer by occupation, died in January 1868 and his wife in 1832. He reared a family of eight children: Jane; Andrew; Matilda; Samuel; Richard; James P.; Margaret, and George W. The subject of our sketch was educated in the common schools and Montour Academy, and at the age of eighteen years learned the printer's trade in the office of the Milton Ledger; he eventually became one of the editors of that paper, after which he was connected with a paper in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, a short time. He then enlisted in the Mexican war in Company C, Second Pennsylvania Volunteers, in January, 1847, and in August of the same year brought home the remains of General H. H. Hammond, of Milton. He was a member of the Northumberland Troop, and served in all the offices from lieutenant to general. He was connected with the Bordentown Palladium, of Bordentown, New Jersey, and in company with G. L. Vliet he published a paper called The True Democrat at Pottsville, Pennsylvania, two years, when they were burned out. About the year 1850 he embarked in the mercantile business at McEwensville, where he has since resided. He was postmaster for eight years at McEwensville, during the administrations of Presidents Pierce and Buchanan. He was married in February, 1849, to Elizabeth Witter, of Milton, and to this union have been born five children: Blanche, wife of William Dewitt, of Troy, Bradford county, Pennsylvania; George P.; Annie; Tillie, wife of James Buoy, of Milton, and Harry, who served as postmaster of McEwensville during Cleveland's administration. Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong are members of the Warrior Run Presbyterian church. He has served as school director, is burgess and councilman of McEwensville, and politically is a stanch Democrat. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 1155 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

WILLIAM MACLAY AWL was born at Harrisburg, May 24, 1799, and reared in Augusta township, Northumberland county. He attended the University of Pennsylvania, graduated from Jefferson Medical College, and located in the practice of his profession at Lancaster, Ohio, in 1825, but removed to Somerset, Ohio, shortly afterward, and thence to Columbus in 1833. He was appointed physician to the State penitentiary, and in 1835 suggested the organization of the State Medical Association. In 1857 he was director of the State lunatic asylum, of which he was superintendent twelve years, resigning in 1850. He was the first to propose the education of the feeble-minded to the Association of Medical Superintendents of American Institutions for the Insane (of which he was vice-president from 1846 to 1848 and president from 1848 to 1851), and from this suggestion the various institutions for this purpose throughout the world have ultimately resulted. He was president of the board of examiners which passed upon the qualifications of surgeons for the Ohio regiments during the civil war, and late in life served as physician to the Ohio institute for the blind, which he had been largely instrumental in founding. An active member of the Presbyterian church, he was a frequent contributor to biblical literature and prepared a chronological chart showing genealogy, race, and age of Bible characters from Adam to Moses. He married Rebecca Loughery, January 28, 1830, and died on the 19th of November, 1876. Mary Harris Awl was born, September 1, 1802, married William C. Gearhart, of Rush township, and died, November 29, 1870. Charles Maclay Awl, born, January 5, 1804, died in infancy. Eleanor Maclay Awl, born, November 26, 1806, married Ezra Grossman, and died, May 26, 1889. Charles Samuel Awl, born, August 1, 1808, married Lucy Duncan; he resided on a farm near Peoria, Illinois, where he was justice of the peace many years, and died, November 1, 1883. George Washington Awl, born, June 27, 1810, died, September 4, 1829, in this county. Sarah Irwin Awl, born, June 1, 1812, married George C. Welker, and resides at Sunbury. Hester Hall Awl, born, August 18,1814, married William Brindel, a nephew of Governor Ritner, and resides at Sunbury. Elizabeth Jane Awl, born, November 28, 1816, married Daniel Rohrbach, and resides at Selinsgrove (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891