Northumberland County Biographies
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JACKSON M. ENGLE, who has a fine farm in Boyle’s Run, in Lower Augusta Township, Northumberland County, has made his home on that property for many years, and its present fine condition is due entirely to his progressive and systematic industry. Mr. Engle was born May 2, 1857, on the farm of his father in Lower Mahanoy Township, this county, and he is a son of Joel Engle and grandson of George Engle.
George Engel lived in Jackson Township, Northumberland County, he and his brother Abraham coming from one of the lower counties of the State, probably Berks. He did laboring work, and was well known for his skill as a violinist. His children were: William, Joel and Ed.
Joel Engle, son of George, was but three years old when his father died. He settled one mile south of Dalmatia, in Lower Mahanoy Township, where he followed farming, owning a tract of ninety acres now the property of Jacob Martz. The place was an old Ziegler homestead, and as laid out at present comprises four different tracts, located on the eastern bank of the Susquehanna. Mr. Engle built the present dwelling on the place. He was a Republican in politics, served his district in the capacity of tax collector, and was also a useful member of the church, holding office for many years as deacon and elder at the Stone Valley Church, where he was identified with the Reformed congregation. He and his wife, who died only four weeks apart, are buried there. She was Catharine Walt, daughter of Willoughby Walt. Thirteen children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Engle: Malinda died in childhood; Amelia married Charles Schlaman, who is deceased; Polly married Joseph Kessler; Jackson M. is mentioned below; Jeremiah is a resident of Shamokin; Willoughby Lincoln lives in Shamokin; Jane is the widow of Josiah Zimmerman; Annie married Adam Lenker; Katie married Charles Wirt; John and Charles are residents of Shamokin; Frank lives in Illinois; Carrie died aged five years.
Jackson M. Engle was reared upon the home farm, working for his parents until nearly twenty years old, when he married. He came to the farm in Lower Augusta Township which he has since occupied some time after that event, and during the first twenty-one years of his residence there farmed the land on shares, buying it in 1906. It contains 120 acres of valuable land in the district known as Boyle’s Run and is in excellent condition, thanks to his care and good management. Mr. Engle has the reputation of having the best live stock in the valley, and he always keeps fine horses. He is a Republican in his political preferences, but votes independently, and in religion he is a Presbyterian, belonging to the Mountain Church, of which he is a trustee. As a citizen he is respected by all who know him for his sterling worth and reliable qualities.
On Jan. 13, 1877, Mr. Engle married Beatte DeWitt, daughter of Paul and Abby (Shipman) DeWitt and to them have been born the following children: Galen married Della Reader; Emma married Dennis Conrad; Rosa married Peter Conrad (brother of Dennis); Ira is married and living in Harrisburg; Irwin lives in Harrisburg; Harry; William lives in Sunbury; Samuel and Carrie are at home. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County,. Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 927 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

NORMAN S. ENGLE, broker and real estate agent, was born at Albion, Noble county, Indiana, January 20, 1841, son of William F. Engle, a former resident of Sunbury, who settled in the northern part of Indiana in 1837 and was one of the prominent pioneers of that section of the State. He married a western lady, who died at an early age and was followed soon after by her husband. Norman S. and his sister Emily came to Sunbury in 1851 and made their home with the family of H. B. Masser. His education was obtained at the public school taught by Jacob Ulp in a building at the site of the present Masonic hall, and also under the private tuition of Miss Kate Black. In June, 1854, he entered the office of the Sunbury American to learn the printing business, at which he continued until June, 1863, when he was appointed to a clerkship in the office of the provost marshal at Harrisburg under his uncle, General J. K. Clement. There he continued until June, 1865, and then returned to Sunbury. On the 1st of April, 1866, he entered into partnership with H. B. Masser in the publication of the Sunbury American, retiring from this connection on the 1st of January, 1869. He then opened a real estate and brokerage office at Sunbury, and has been in business continuously ever since. He has been active in establishing and promoting building and loan associations, and at the present time is vice-president and director of the Susquehanna Building and Loan Association. He was elected borough treasurer in 1875, and annually thereafter for eleven consecutive years; it was under his management that the reorganization of the borough finances was effected by the issue of bonds to the amount of forty-five thousand dollars, thus establishing the credit of the borough upon a firm basis. When Lee invaded Maryland in 1862 he enlisted in Company D, Third Pennsylvania Militia, and was mustered out with his regiment, September 25, 1862. At the age of sixteen he became a member of the Good Intent Fire Company, and is now an honorary member of Sunbury Steam Fire Company, No. 1. Since 1867 he has been identified with the Masonic fraternity. In politics he is a stanch Republican, and since attaining his majority has taken an active interest in every important political campaign. On the 17th of November, 1869, he married Jane W., daughter of Henry and Catherine (Weaver) Haas; they are the parents of one child, a son. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 855 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JAMES B. ENT, a farmer of Ralpho Township, Northumberland County, was born at the place he now resides Dec. 16, 1859, and has followed general farming and trucking all his life. He was the first tax collector elected in his Township, and has the reputation of being a reliable, intelligent man, a valuable citizen of the district in which he makes his home.
Peter Ent great-grandfather of James B. Ent, was a native of Jersey, born Jan. 11, 1749, and died Feb. 28, 1829, aged eighty years, one month, seventeen days. He served as a flag bearer in the Revolutionary war. His wife, Sarah (Kent), born March 11 1755, died May 14, 1821, aged sixty-six years, three months, three days. Their daughter Susanna, who married William Brewer, was born May 16, 1784, and died Nov. 21, 1854, aged seventy years, six months, five days.
Charles Ent, grandfather of James B. Ent, lived and died in Columbia County, Pa., where he followed farming, owning two large farms there, in Roaring creek valley. He was born June 25, 1788 and died Jan. 1, 1849. He married Elizabeth Mear’s, and his children, all now deceased, were: Peter, John, Jackson, Daniel, Charles, Thomas, George, Samuel, Sarah, Angeline, Caroline and Mary.
Samuel Ent, son of Charles Ent, was born Feb. 13, 1813, in Columbia County, and died Nov. 9, 1869. In his earlier manhood he followed cabinet-making and the undertaking business and later engaged at the carpenter’s trade, many of the old structures around Elysburg having been built by him. In 1865 he erected the old Elysburg Academy building, now known as Odd Fellows Hall. He was a prominent member of the Democratic party, and served as commissioner of Northumberland County in 1858-59-60-61. A member of the I.O.O.F., he originally belonged to Mount Tabor Lodge, at Shamokin, which he served as noble grand, and when Elysburg Lodge was organized he became a charter member. In various ways he was considered one of the leading men of his district.
On March 30, 1836, Mr. Ent married Lucy Clayton, daughter of William Clayton. She was born Dec. 17, 1814, and died March 31, 1883, and she and her husband are buried at St. Jacob’s (Reed’s) church in Ralpho Township. They had children as follows: Elizabeth married Luther Hoover, and died in 1869, aged thirty-one years; Ellen S., born in 1840, died in 1863; William Clayton, born in 1843, died in 1869 (he served during the Civil war in Company F, 104th Regiment. Pennsylvania Volunteer Reserves); Louisa married Freeman Haas; Adeline is living with her brother James B.; Charles W., born Feb. 19, 1850, died Nov. 2, 1869; George B., born April 19, 1853, died 31 March 7, 1873; Dora married Simon G. Kase; James is residing on the old home place. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County,. Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 565 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ERDLY, Henry Erdly, grandfather of John H. Erdly was a pioneer resident of Liberty Township, Tioga Co., Pa., where he followed farming and milling, building a gristmill on Blockhouse creek which he conducted for a number of years. He died about 1870, at the age of about seventy-two, and is buried at Salem Church in Liberty Township. In religion he was a Lutheran. His wife, whose maiden name was Kratzer, died several years before him, and they were the parents of two children, Daniel and Betzy (Mrs. Milton Phelps). Daniel Erdly, son of Henry, was born in 1820 on the homestead in Liberty Township, and died there in 1876. He farmed the old place, which consisted of 140 acres, and was an industrious man and a useful member of the community, holding many offices at Salem Church, of which he was a Lutheran member. He is buried at that Church. In political sentiment he was a Democrat. His wife, Barbara (Fick), daughter of John Fick, also of Liberty Township, died in 1903, at the age of sixty-nine years. They had a family of six children: Mary, Mrs. Winton Belford; William, who died when eleven years old; John H.; Oscar, of Tioga county; Frank; and Edith (deceased), who married John Haggerty. John H. Erdly was born March 28, 1858, on the homestead in Tioga County, where he was reared to farm life. He began farming for himself in Turbut Township, Northumberland County, where he remained for two years, at the end of that time going to Milton, where he lived for several years. He then came to his present place of sixty acres in Lewis Township, one mile east of Turbutville, having lived there since 1900. In August, 1882, he married Susanna Menges, daughter of John Menges, and they have had five children, Stella M.. (who died aged fourteen years), Edith F., Mabel A., Raymond and Charles N. Mr. Erdly and his family are members of the Reformed Church. In politics he is an independent Democrat. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 394 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JACOB EPLER, a native of Tulpehocken township, Berks county, Pennsylvania, settled in Shamokin about the year 1810. He married in Berks county, and his family consisted of ten children. His son Jacob died in Shamokin township in 1845; his wife survived him about five years. Samuel Epler, the youngest son, was born in Shamokin township in 1810. He was reared a farmer, and in 1841 purchased the farm containing one hundred twenty acres of William Walter, where his son, Samuel, now resides. In his political affiliations he was a warm Democrat, and served in the minor township offices. In his religious belief Mr. Epler was a German Reformed, of which church he was a prominent member, and elder for many years. His death occurred in 1887; his wife died in 1871. His family consisted of eight children, one of whom died in infancy; William H., who died at the age of twenty-three; Valentine, of Rush township; Caroline, wife of Solomon Pensyl; John, of Point township; Henry J., of Saratoga, New York; Amos, and Samuel M., of Shamokin township. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 1200 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

SAMUEL M. EPLER was born at the homestead farm, April 8, 1852, son of Samuel and Mary (Zimmerman) Epler. He received his education at the township schools and Freeburg Academy, in Snyder county, Pennsylvania. In early life Mr. Epler was engaged in teaching in the schools of Shamokin township, and for a number of years has been engaged in farming. In 1888 he established his coal business in the borough of Shamokin, which he operates in connection with his farm. In politics Mr. Epler is a life-long Democrat, and is a leading spirit in his party. He has served in the office of school director five years. He is an earnest friend to the cause of education, which he is always ready to aid with his means and influence. He has also filled the offices of township clerk, constable, overseer of the poor, and was secretary of the school board five years. He married Hannah E., daughter of the late Charles Hull, in 1881, and by this union they have one son, Charles H. Mr. Epler is a member of the German Reformed church, of Elysburg Lodge, F. & A.M., and is an enterprising and progressive citizen. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 1200 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

VALENTINE EPLER was born in Shamokin township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, in 1843, son of Samuel and Mary (Zimmerman) Epler. He was educated in the common schools and followed the life of a farmer until 1861, when he enlisted in Company K, Forty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served three years and eleven months. At the battle of Winchester he was taken prisoner and sent to Belle Isle, where he was kept four months, after which he was exchanged. He then returned to his regiment and was detailed to the quartermaster department, in which he served until the close of the war. In 1866 he settled upon his present farm. In 1889 he purchased the Logan Run mill, which he is operating in connection with his farm. He married Ellen, daughter of Reuben Snyder, of Shamokin township, and by this union they have had ten children, eight of whom are living: Reuben; Harry S.; Mary J.; Sallie E.; Flora L.; John C.; Francis H., and George M. Mr. Epler has filed several township offices. Politically he is a Democrat, and in religious faith a German Reformed, and is a member of Jacob's church of Ralpho township. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 1216 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JOHN K. ERDMAN, though now retired from active agricultural pursuits, still makes his home on his farm in the Irish Valley, in Rockefeller Township, where he owns a large and valuable tract. He has made his home there since 1885. Mr Erdman was born March 26, 1841, in Upper Mahantango Township, Schuylkill Co., Pa., son of George Erdman and grandson of Johan Georg Erdman.
The emigrant ancestor of this family, Johannes Erdman, of Pfungstadt Hessen-Darmstadt, came to America in 1734. Where he first settled has not been learned, but in 1750 he was on the property now known as the old Erdman farm, near Center Valley, in Lehigh County, Pa. His wife’s name was Anna Catharine. He died Oct. 30, 1760, at the age of seventy-eight years. He seems to have had a number of children, but the lineage of only one son, Andrew, has so far been ascertained with certainty. This Andrew (Andraes) married Ann Maria Frederick, and they had nine children; namely: Jacob, George, Abraham, Andrew, John,-Yost; Catharine, Sybilla and Anna Margaret. Of these, Catharine (who married Jacob Barnhart), Anna Margaret (who married George Sober) and Abraham removed to Armstrong, Westmoreland Co., Pa., at an early day, and their descendants have been lost track of. Sybilla married Henry Bitz and removed to Lower Mount Bethel, Northampton Co., Pa. Andrew and Yost settled in Hilltown, Bucks Co., Pa., and George in Upper Saucon Lehigh Co., Pa.; he had two ;sons, John and Jacob. The Northumberland County branch of the family is descended from Andrew.
Georg Erdman, grandfather of John K. Erdman, was a native of Lehigh County, born Feb. 24, 1787, and was one of three brothers, Abraham, Andrew and Georg, to move from that locality into the Mahantango Valley, all settling near Klingerstown, in Schuylkill County, Pa. All three were farmers, and their lands adjoined. Abraham had, among other children, Benjamin and George; Andrew had sons Jacob, George and John; and there were also Abraham and Elias, sons of either Abraham, Sr., or Andrew.
Georg Erdman had a large farm, upon which he built a house and a barn, and his son Nathan succeeded him there. He died Aug. 5, 1858, and he and his wife are buried at the Salem (Herb) Church, at Rough and Ready, in Schuylkill County. He was a Lutheran member of that church. He married Anna Catharine Schneider, who was born July 6, 1792, daughter of Johann Nicholas and Anna Maria Schneider, and died Aug. 20, 1842. They had a large family: Daniel; George; Solomon, born March 19, 1822, who died Nov. 18, 1859; Elias, born Jan. 29, 1824, who died Sept. 24, 1856; Nathan, who died March 7, 1897, aged seventy-one years, six months, eight days (his wife Rachel died Dec. 1, 1897, aged seventy-four years ten months, nineteen days); William; Lydia, who married William Kehres; Catharine, who married William Kehres; Polly, Mrs. Knorr; Dina, Mrs. Isaac Rebuck; Mrs. John Smith; Rebecca, Mrs. Michael Brown; and Harriet, Mrs. Moses Hartman who survives.
George Erdman, father of John K. Erdman was born in 1818, and died in 1882, at the age of sixty-four years. He is buried at the Blue church Paxinos. He lived on the hill road leading from Paxinos to Shamokin, where he had a small farm and he owned a, tract of 125 acres at Bear Gap, which he rented. He was a devout church member, and held the office of deacon. His wife Mary (Knorr), daughter of John Knorr, of Mahantango Valley, bore him the following children William K., a carpenter by trade, justice of the peace and active in Democratic politics, who live at Shamokin; Caroline, who married Joseph Kaseman; John K.; Daniel; Elizabeth, who married David Startzel; Catharine, who married J. B. Repley; Mary E., born in 1852, who died in 1873; Frank, a carpenter and contractor, who lives on the homestead near Weigh Scales (he is now serving his second term as a county commissioner); Ida, who died young, in 1863; George and Albert.
John K. Erdman was reared on the farm. When nineteen years old he commenced to learn the trade of carpenter, in Shamokin Township, and he followed that calling for twelve years, after which he returned to farm life, locating in Ralpho Township. There he lived from 1871 to 1883 cultivating a farm of fifty acres Which he sold, and for one year thereafter lived at Stonington where he farmed as a tenant In 1885 he came to Rockefeller Township, settling on the farm which he has since occupied. He owns 212 acres, well located, of which 115 acres are under cultivation, devoted to general crops. Since 1902 Mr. Erdman has sold his produce at Trevorton. Before that he went all the way to Shamokin to market. In 1908 he retired from active labor, but he continues to make his home on the farm. This was formerly the John Dunkelberger homestead, and earlier owned by a Yordy. Mr. Erdman is a highly esteemed citizen, and has received many evidences of the confidence his fellow citizens have in his ability and trustworthiness. While in Shamokin Township he was elected overseer of the poor, and since coming to Rockefeller Township he has been chosen to serve as school director and supervisor. In politics he is a Democrat. During the Civil war he served a nine months term as member of Company C, 131st Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. He and his family worship at the Augustaville Lutheran church, of which he has been deacon and elder.
In 1867 Mr. Erdman married Annie Lewessa Reply, daughter of John and Rachel (Campbell) Reply, and she died in 1878, the mother of five children: Della, Rebecca M., Joseph E., Charles W. and Mary R. In 1880 Mr. Erdman married (second) Mary F. Vastine, daughter of Hugh Vastine, of Rush Township, this County, and they have had nine children: Hattie C., Sallie I., Elenora B., Alice L., David A., John H. R., Peter C., Kimber H. and Frank C. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 444 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

WILLIAM K. ERDMAN, insurance agent, was born in Upper Mahantango township, Schuylkill county, Pennsylvania, November 12, 1837, son of George and Mary (Knorr) Erdman, of German and Scotch extraction. He had limited advantages of an education; six months cover the entire tuition received by him. His life until twenty-four years of age was spent upon the homestead farm. In 1861 he came to Shamokin and obtained employment as a laborer upon the railroad. He subsequently obtained work at the Big Mountain colliery in loading cars, where he remained five years, when he was promoted to outside superintendent, which position he filled three years. He then worked at the Buck Ridge colliery several years, leaving there to engage in carpenter work, and was employed by Daniel Weaver, Joseph Kaseman, and others. In 1873 he opened a small grocery store, shortly afterward entered the employ of J. K. Haas as clerk, and in 1875 entered into partnership with Mr. Haas, which continued two and a half years. In 1869 and 1871 Mr. Erdman filled the office of street commissioner. In 1873 he was elected justice of the peace, serving until 1878. At this period he established his insurance business. He was again elected justice of the peace in 1883, and filled the office five years, after which he was elected clerk of the directors of the poor, which position he filled two years. In 1888 he was again elected to the office of justice of the peace, discharging the duties of the office two years, when he resigned. Mr. Erdman has filled the office of constable, has served two terms in the borough council, and was a member of the first school board elected after the erection of Shamokin borough. In politics he has ever been a strong Democrat and an active worker in his party. His reputation for intelligence and force of character gives him an influence that does much to further the success of his party. He possessed no early advantages, but employed his leisure hours in study and by self-application he gained in book knowledge; he also educated himself by close observation and judgment of men and things, which has contributed in no small degree to his standing as a citizen and success as a man. He is a member of the I.O.O.F. and represented his lodge in the Grand Lodge of the State. He was married to Mary Dimick, of Northumberland county, and to them have been born seven children: Clara T., wife of D. B. Felix; Luther M.; Oscar O.; Ida M., wife of L. M. Fisher; Emma S.; William E., and Lizzie M. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 964 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

GEORGE A. ERIEG, the efficient manager of J. M. Otto's baking establishment at Shamokin, Northumberland County, Pa., is a son of John G. and Catherine (Kiehl)Erieg, and was born in April, 1859, at Williamsport, Pa. He received his education in his native place and learned the trade of a baker from his father. In 1875 he became a partner with his father, their business being conducted under the firm name of John G. Erieg & Son. This firm continued until the death of his father, after which our subject managed the business for his mother until her death. The business was then sold to settle the estate. Three days after the sale Mr. Erieg engaged to work for George A. Kiehl, who at that time purchased the Shamokin Bakery of William Henry & Son. Not desiring to continue the business longer, Mr. Kiehl sold out at a very large profit to J. M. Otto, the present owner, and Mr. Erieg was retained as manager. Under his splendid management the business has increased in value and prospered until the present output is enormous, being estimated at $100,000 worth of stock sold a year. On December 27, 1898, Mr. Erieg took a Southern trip, arriving on the Island of Cuba on January 2, 1899, and there he remained for five weeks. Immediately after his arrival there he became a member of the Casino Espanol, a very fashionable club, and received the benefit of its hospitality while in Havana. In connection with this organization is a hospital of seven wards, employing thirty-two physicians and one hundred nurses, and the membership of the club numbers 12,000. The grounds surrounding the club-house are most beautiful, being set out with trees and shrubbery of various kinds. Mr. Erieg combined business with pleasure on this excursion and secured an option on two of the finest tobacco plantations in Cuba, one of which he has since bought. This trip was one of greatest pleasure and one to which our subject will always look back with enjoyment, as it was one of the most interesting events in his life. Bertha M. Hagenbouch, a daughter of Samuel Hagenbouch of Bloomsburg, Columbia County, Pa., became the wife of our subject and their home has been blessed by one son, Charles A. Mr. Erieg is a worthy member of the Lutheran Church and is quite liberal in the support of the same. Socially he is a member of the Cresco Club of Shamokin. John G. Erieg, our subject's father, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, as was also his father before him, and learned the trade of a baker most thoroughly in his native country by passing through the different grades of apprenticeship. After immigrating to this country he located in the city of Lancaster, Pa., but shortly after removed to Columbia, where he engaged in his chosen occupation. He was subsequently at Sunbury, then at Williamsport, where he enjoyed the distinction of being the first baker in the city. In 1865 he removed to York, Pa., where he assisted in operating the mineral water establishment of his brother-in-law, George Kiehl. After pursuing that occupation for a couple of years he branched forth as a lumber and real estate dealer in York, but subsequently removed to Williamsport in 1870 and engaged with the insurance firm of McVeigh & Snyder. But he was not satisfied to remain at that, so he tried his luck at dealing in groceries and queensware for about three years, but finally returned to his former trade as baker. He added a new branch to the business which greatly increased the magnitude of his stock as well as his profit. He included with bread-making the manufacture of crackers and all kinds of fancy cakes. Previous to that time both crackers and cakes were strictly home-made articles and a bakery where such edibles could be purchased was quite a novelty. From that time on he followed this occupation continuously until his death, after which his widow operated the same business, with the able assistance of our subject, until she died. In order to settle the estate the establishment was sold to the United States Baking Company. Our subject's father was a stanch Democrat and was active in party affairs, being always pleased at the success of his party. He was a member of the school board for a number of years and served in the common and select councils for about thirty years. At his death he was a member of the select council. He was avalued and consistent member of the Lutheran Church and was for many years superintendent of the Sabbath School of that denomination. He and his worthy wife had a family of seven children, four sons and three daughters, namely: William G., a resident of Shamokin; George, subject of this sketch; Mary; Kate S.; Louis E., of Shamokin; Elizabeth, the wife of John M. Otto, proprietor of the Shamokin Bakery; and Frank, who is attending the University of Pennsylvania. (Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY, 1899 , pg. 509 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ANTHONY ESCHBACH learned the blacksmith trade, which occupation he followed. He was married in Northampton county, Pennsylvania, to Barbara Romig, and their children were: Jonathan; David; Jacob; John; Anthony; Catharine; Sarah, and Elizabeth B. In the fall of 1804 Anthony, Jr., and his father traveled on horseback from Lehigh to Northumberland county, and together purchased a tract of three hundred forty-seven acres of land in Turbut township for twenty-six dollars fifty cents per acre. In the spring of 1805 they moved their families over the mountains and settled upon the same, building a log house sixteen by twenty feet, one story high. They were one of the early families of the county, and endured the privations and hardships of the pioneer. The only child living of Anthony, Jr., is Elizabeth, Mrs. Balliet, of Lockport, New York. Anthony Eschbach was one of the early members of the Paradise Reformed church, helped to organize the same, and served as elder for many years. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 1109 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

DAVID ESCHBACH was born in Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, in 1802, son of Anthony, and removed with him to Turbut township in 1805. He acquired his education at the schools of the township. In 1824 he married Elizabeth Rishel, of Chillisquaque township, who died in 1844. Their children were: David, deceased; Edward, of Frederick City, Maryland; Clarissa, wife of Benjamin Shaffer, of Kansas, and Elizabeth, wife of William S. Klapp, of Milton. He was again married, in September, 1845, to Sarah, daughter of Philip Eschbach, by whom he had the following children: Seth, a merchant of Milton; I. A., of Turbut township; Henry Clay, a physician of Iowa, and Daniel Elmer, a real estate agent of Des Moines, Iowa. Mr. Eschbach became one of the prominent farmers of the township, and was also an extensive lumber manufacturer. He was a member of the Paradise Reformed church, in which he served as elder many years and until his death. Politically he was a Republican, and filled the office of school director a number of terms. He was one of the directors of the Lewisburg Bank, and later a director in the Milton National Bank, which office he held at the time of his death. He died in February, 1879; his wife survives him, and lives near the homestead farm. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 1109 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ISAIAH A. ESCHBACH was born on his present farm in Turbut township, May 19, 1854. He received his education in the township schools, and has always followed farming. In December, 1875, he married Alcesta, daughter of William Balliett, by whom he has three children: Ralph David; Paul Balliett, and William Josiah. He is an active member of the Republican party, and now holds the office of school director. He and his family are members of the Paradise Reformed church, in which he is deacon and secretary of the consistory. He is a stockholder in the Milton Creamery Company, a member of Turbut Grange, P. of H., and present secretary of the latter. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg. 1109 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

JOHN ESCHBACH was born in Germany, December 15, 1747, immigrated to America, and settled in that part of Northampton county which is now Lehigh county. He married Catharine Bush, who was born in Germany in 1749. Their immediate descendants were John; Anthony; Valentine; Philip; Solomon; Elizabeth; Susanna; Savilla; Mary, and Catharine. (History of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, edited by Herbert C. Bell, Published by Brown, Runk & Co. of Chicago, Ill, 1891 pg.1109 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

LEWIS K. ETTINGER, one of the most valued employees of the S. J. Shimer & Sons (Incorporated) concern, in the borough of Milton, is engaged in the capacity of superintendent at that important industrial establishment. His ability is recognized in all his business relations, and his high standing, won in years of honorable occupation, is well merited.
Mr. Ettinger is a native of York, York Co., Pa., born June 10, 1855. The family there is of long and honorable standing. His great-grandfather, Rev. Adam Ettinger, a clergyman of the Reformed Church, died in 1809. He married a sister of Rev. John Stouch, of the Lutheran Church.
Rev. Adam Ettinger, son of Rev. Adam, for sixty-two years a clergyman of York County, was one of the pioneer ministers of the Evangelical Church. He was born in York in 1787, and in the fall of 1813, under the administration of Rev. John Walter, the first fellow laborer of Rev. Jacob Albright, founder of the Evangelical Association, joined that denomination, which then had but fifteen preachers and 769 members in America. He became one of the original preachers of the Association in York County, traveling through that and surrounding counties, and no minister of the gospel was a more devoted follower of the doctrines and principles of the church of his choice than he, giving not only his time but his means to the support of the cause he so faithfully advocated. In fact, to the church and its interests he was generous and philanthropic beyond his means. When ninety years old he preached a sermon at Milton. He died in York in October, 1879, at the age of ninety, and is buried there, in Prospect Hill cemetery. He was married early in life to Elizabeth Miller, daughter of Conrad Miller, a soldier of the Revolution and well-to-do farmer of Hopewell. His father-in-law and mother-in-law then formed part of his household, and their home became a place for religious meetings, and in summertime camp-meetings were held in the adjoining woods.
Rev. Adam and Elizabeth (Miller) Ettinger had children as follows: Daniel, who resided at York, Pa., and who became a civil engineer; Jesse, who settled in York County, where he died; Catharine, who married Dr. William Bower and now resides at Mount Sterling, Ill.; Leah, who married John Sprenkel, of York, Pa.; George, living in Baltimore; John, who died at Elizabethville, Dauphin Co., Pa.; Mary, wife of George Messersmith; Joel, who died at Baltimore; and William.
William Ettinger, son of Rev. Adam and Elizabeth (Miller), was born Jan. 23, 1825, in York County, Pa., and learned the weaver’s trade which he followed in York and Center counties. After his marriage he lived in Shrewsbury, York County, for a few years, in 1853 settling in York, where he remained until his removal to Aaronsburg, Center County, in 1861. There he followed weaving and later conducted a meat market. In 1876 he moved to Milton, Northumberland County, where he had a meat market for about twenty-five years, becoming one of the best known business men in the borough. He made his home there until his death, Nov. 20, 1896, when he was aged seventy-one years, nine months, twenty-seven days. Like his father he was a member of the Evangelical Church, and he was a Republican in politics.
On March 24, 1850, Mr. Ettinger was married, in Center County, to Sophia M. Kurtz, a native of Darmstadt, Germany, born Oct. 17, 1831, who was only nine months old when brought by her parents to America. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. William Ettinger: (1) Joanna B., born Jan. 6, 1851, married Rev. L. K. Harris, an Evangelical minister, and died in August, 1908. (2) Lewis K. is mentioned below. (3) Anna Mary, born Jan. 2, 1861, married William Neagley, and they have one son. They reside in Milton. (4) John, born Nov. 30, 1863, married Grace Anderson, of Chester, and they now live in Portland, Oregon. Ludwig Kurtz, father of Mrs. William Ettinger, was born in Darmstadt, Germany, and came to America with his wife and family in 1832, settling at what was then known as “Little York” (now York), Pa. The voyage to this country, made in a sailing vessel, took fifty-five days. Mr. Kurtz had a forge and sawmill in Germany, and was also an expert printer, and he was engaged as a printer after coming to this country. His death occurred at Aaronsburg, Center Co., Pa. He married in Germany Joanna S. Brahm, whose father, Godfrey Brahm, was a prominent man in Darmstadt in his day, being secretary under the ruler of the Duchy of Hesse-Darmstadt; he could speak nine languages.
Lewis K. Ettinger received a common school education, and learned the weaving trade with his father. In 1875 he came to Milton and took a position in the Shimer establishment, making cutter heads, for a dollar a day. There were only two men besides himself in the department, and by earnest application and intelligent attention to his work he won promotion from time to time, becoming foreman and continuing as such until 1902, when he was made superintendent of the plant. In this capacity Mr. Ettinger has about 190 men to oversee, and he is one of the most trusted heads in the establishment which has an important place in the industrial prosperity of the borough of Milton. He is a much respected and substantial citizen of that borough, a member of the Board of Trade, and in various ways identified with its best interests. Fraternally he holds membership in Milton Lodge, No. 256, F. & A.M.; in Warrior Run Chapter, No. 246, R.A.M., of Watsontown; and in the B.P.O. Elks. He is a Republican in politics.
In August, 1899, Mr. Ettinger married Mary Blanch Jenkins, daughter of John and Lucy (Hull) Jenkins, the former a prominent citizen of Milton, connected with several local financial institutions and well known in the Board of Trade, which he served at one time as president. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 311 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark

LEWIS EVANS, one of the leading citizens of Shamokin, Pa., and inside foreman at the Swamp Colliery, is one of the most highly respected men in the community, and has for several years been one of Shamokin's most prominent citizens. He is a native of Wales, having been born there April 5, 1849, and is a son of William and Mary (Evans) Evans. Our subject's parents came to this country in 1863, and settled near Scranton, Pa., where William Evans, who had been a contractor in and around the mines in his native country, accepted a position as foreman "near Scranton, but shortly removed to Plymouth, Luzerne County, Pa., where he also acted as foreman during the remainder of his active life. He lost his life in the famous disaster at Avondale, in September, 1869. Lewis Evans, the subject of this biography, at the age of nine years began his career as a door-boy, also driving horses, and when he came to the United States with his parents he continued at this occupation until he was eighteen years old, when he began his mining career at St. Clair, near Pottsville, Schuylkill County. Being ambitious to advance, it was not long until his abilities were recognized and he was promoted to the position of fire-boss at Shenandoah, Schuylkill County, and he so satisfactorily filled his duties that he was again promoted in 1890 to the position of inside-foreman at the Allen Gowan Colliery of the Philadelphia & Reading Coal & Iron Company, remaining there until August, 1893. He then accepted a similar position at the Swamp Colliery under the Union Coal Company. Politically Mr. Evans is an active and unswerving Republican, and has always taken a deep interest in all political affairs, and he constantly has the interest of his party and fellow-citizens at heart. On October 9, 1870, he was joined in marriage with Margaret Richards, daughter of Shem Richards of St. Clair, and they are the parents of the following children: Mary Ann, the wife of Harry Finn, a fire-boss at the Swamp Colliery; Shem, a fire-boss under the employ of his father, who was married February 22, 1899, to Mary J. Edwards of Shenandoah, Pa.; William, who is load-boss at Swamp Colliery and married Eleanor Gensal of Coal Run; and Margaret and Rachael R., who both reside at home. Mr. Evans is well known throughout the county and he has made a host of friends. Socially our subject is a member of Shenandoah Lodge, No. 511, F. & A. M., of Shenandoah, Pa.; also Shamokin Chapter No. 264, R. A. M.; Shamokin Commandery of Shamokin, Pa.; Shenandoah Lodge No. 591, I. O. O. F., of Shenandoah, Pa., Lincoln Lodge No. 92, Knights of Pythias, of St. Clair, Pa.; and Schuylkill Tribe No. 202, I. O. R. M., of St. Clair.(Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY, 1899 , pg. 629 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

FRANCIS M. EVERETT, cashier of the Mount Carmel Banking Company and one of the most prominent men in the financial circles of Mount Carmel, is a son of Elijah and Elizabeth (Stiner) Everett, and was born May 11, 1850, in Orange township, Columbia County, Pa. The paternal grandfather of our subject, James Everett, was a native of Northampton County, this state, who removed to Bloomsburg when young, being one of the pioneer settlers in what is known as Orange township. He was engaged in agricultural pursuits in that township for many years. The family on the maternal side was of German origin and its members were among the earliest settlers in Briarcreek township. The father of the subject of this sketch, Elijah Everett, was born in Briarcreek township and resided in it until his death at a comparatively early age. Our subject was educated in the common schools. His father dying when he was quite young, his mother remarried and removed to Muncy, Lycoming County, Pa.,where Francis remained until he was seventeen years of age when he forsook the farm and took a position as a clerk in the general store of I. W. Hartman & Son, in Bloomsburg. After clerking for a short time he was made manager of the grocery department of the store, successfully conducting the firm's large business for a number of years. Subsequently, from 1871 to 1874, Mr. Everett was employed in the War Department at Washington, D. C. In 1890 he connected himself with the Bloomsburg Banking Company at Bloomsburg, with which he remained until January, 1895, when he removed to Mount Carmel, where he now resides and where he has been very successful in managing banking business. As cashier of the company of which he now is one of the leading men, the Mount Carmel Banking Company, Mr. Everett has shown much ability as a financier and to his ability and careful direction is largely due the prosperity of the company. The officers of the company are: President, Thomas M. Righter; vice-president, David Camp; cashier, Francis M. Everett, our subject; directors, Thomas M. Righter, David Camp, George E. Berner, H. S. Robins, D. D. Bolich, Isaac Goldschmidt, Peter A.Stief, Benjamin Wirt, Joseph Gould, John L. Williams, 0. B. Millard of Centralia, and Joseph S. Nowakoski. Mr. Everett is a member of the board of directors of the Mount Carmel Iron Works, the officers of which are: President, David Camp; vice-president, S. E. Bergstresser; treasurer and manager, J. M. Derby. He also is president of the Miners' & Laborers' Building & Loan Association. He is a trustee of the M. E. Church in which he is an active member. Twice has our subject been united in marriage, first to Anna Hartman, daughter of I. W. Hartman, and unto them were born two daughters: Minnie, wife of A. H. Derby of Mount Carmel, and Mary, wife of E. F. Carpenter of Bloomsburg who is one of the clerical force of the First National Bank of Bloomsburg. Mr.Everett's second marriage was to Amelia Neyhard of Bloomsburg and their union has been blessed by three children, Robert, Frederick and Margaret. (Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY, 1899 , pg. 514 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

EVERITT. The name Everitt was for over forty years closely associated with business interests in Watsontown, where Enos and Enoch Everitt, twin brothers, were engaged in general merchandising for many years, were foremost in the organization of the Farmers’ National Bank, and otherwise filled a useful place in the welfare and advancement of the community. They were born in December, 1829, in Columbia County, Pa., sons of James Everitt. The father was born in Easton, Northampton Co., Pa., where he married a member of a substantial family of that County, a woman of energetic disposition and noble character. They came to Columbia county after several children had been born to them, and there followed farming. Their family was a large one, viz.: Andrew; William; Moses; Enos and Enoch, twins; Hiram, who was the youngest; Elizabeth, Mrs. Long; Sarah, Mrs. John Wells; Martha; Mary, who died out West; Susan, who married; Lucy, Mrs. Finas Young. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 417 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ENOCH EVERITT was so closely associated with his twin brother Enos that their lives were much the same in many respects. They were in business together at Watsontown for many years, filled the office of postmaster jointly, were associated in the organization of the Farmers’ National Bank, of which Enoch Everitt long served as director, and always had interests in common. Like his brother Enoch Everitt was a member of the First Presbyterian church and helped to build its house of worship. He died July 10, 1901. A man of the highest worth and usefulness, he will long he held in loving reverence by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. Mr. Everitt by his first marriage had three children: Eva Jane, who married Wilson Remley; Lorenzo, who died Oct. 30, 1897; and a son who died young. In 1808 Mr. Everitt married, for his second wife, Catharine M. Barnfield, and to them were born two children, Agnes and Sarah H., both of whom are deceased. Mrs. Everitt, who survives her husband, is one of the oldest residents of Watsontown, where she is comfortably situated. She was born in 1828, but she is nevertheless able to see well without glasses, and reading is her favorite pastime, her keen fondness for good literature affording her many pleasant hours. Edward Barnfield, father of Mrs. Everitt, was a native of England, whence he came to America before his marriage, which took place at Jersey Shore, Pa., to Mary Elizabeth Nelson. He was a school teacher and possessed of some means. He had a sister, Mrs. Wahl, who also came to America. To Mr. and Mrs. Edward Barnfield were born six children, as follows: Sarah (wife of Horace Bliss), William Nelson, Benjamin, John, George and Catharine M. (Mrs. Everitt). By her second marriage the mother had another son, John N. Slonacker. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 418 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

ENOS EVERITT spent his early life in his native county. In 1861 he and his twin brother Enoch came to Watsontown, Northumberland County, and embarked in the mercantile business on a humble scale, in a stone house which stood along the canal. By close application to business and excellent management they prospered, accumulating a comfortable fortune in that line and with the other interests they acquired as the years passed. At one time they had a dry goods business, building a large brick building for their dry goods store at the corner of Main and Third Streets, Watsontown. During Lincoln’s administration they were postmasters at Watsontown for three years. After giving up the general store and dry goods business Enos Everitt engaged, in undertaking, following that line for many years, until he retired, only a few years before his death. He was one of the organizers of the Farmers’ National Bank, and served as the second president of that institution, being succeeded by William Nicely. For some years during his earlier manhood he was in partnership with the Pardees in the lumber business, near Muncy. He was a large real estate owner, in association with Dr. Hall and Marr owning a number of fine farms in Prince George County, Md. Mr. Everitt was a foremost member of the First Presbyterian Church, was one of the organizers of that congregation, and served as a member of the building committee when the church was erected, soliciting the greater part of the money subscribed toward its cost and himself contributing liberally toward the project. He served as school director in Watsontown. Mr. Everitt was a Democrat in politics. He died at Watsontown Dec. 19, 1904, at the age of seventy-five years, a citizen honored in every relation of life, one whose industry brought him prosperity and whose success was shared by all his fellow men, his useful life benefiting all who came in contact with him. Mr. Everitt’s first wife, Catharine Connor, came from Columbia county. She was born in 1832, and died in 1870, the mother of four children: Anna, who has never married; Alice, wife of George Walters; Lillian, who never married; and Grace, wife of Albert Bersinger. Mr. Everitt married (second) Mary E. Hill, daughter of Jacob and Anna (Achenback) Hill, of Center Township, Columbia County, and four children were also born to this union: Forest, who died in 1903, aged twenty-three years; Helen, deceased; Elizabeth B., who is unmarried; and Ralph, who is a college student. ( Genealogical and Biographical Annals of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, by J. L. Floyd Published Chicago, Ill., 1911. pg. 417 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

SAMUEL EVERITT, farmer, was born in Northampton county, Pennsylvania, January 9, 1836, son of Asa and Susan (Adams) Everitt. His father was a native of New Jersey, and his mother of Northampton county. They removed to Northumberland county in 1838 and located in Turbut township, where they were recognized as one among the leading families of the township. Mr. Everitt was a Republican in politics, and he and wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Milton. He died, February 6, 1889; his wife died in 1882. They reared a family of nine children, six of whom are living: Matilda, wife of James Fries, of Iowa; Samuel; Catharine, wife of Daniel Detrick, of White Deer township, Union county; Asa, of Delaware township; William, of White Deer township, Union county, and Mary, wife of William Koch, of Chillisquaque township. The three dead are Susan, deceased wife of Charles Heilman, of Watsontown; David, and Christiana, who was the first person buried in the upper cemetery at Milton. The subject of this sketch came to this county at the age of two years, and has always been engaged in farming. He was married in 1864 to Catharine, daughter of Philip Heilman, of Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, and by this union they have two children: John E. and Heilman P. Mr. Everitt is a stockholder and director in the Farmers' National Bank of Watsontown, having served as director since its organization. He is one of the wealthy and influential citizens of Turbut, and has one of the finest farms in the township. He and his family are members of the Lutheran church, and 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. 1121 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

WILLIAM WEAVER EVERT of Shamokin, Northumberland County, Pa., is widely and most favorably known among railway men because of the responsible position which he holds. He is a son of Daniel and Mary E. (Weaver) Evert and was born January 14, 1843, in what is now the town of Shamokin. A successful man in business, a veteran of the war with an admirable record, and a man of most estimable character, Mr. Evert is looked upon as one of the leading citizens of Northumberland County. Daniel Evert, father of our subject, was a man of whom his son and family are justly proud. He was one of the pioneer tanners in the eastern part of the state and his enterprise did much toward giving to the industrial interests of Shamokin the impetus which eventually produced the very satisfactory results which are to-day evident on every hand. Mr. Evert was born in 1805 and passed to his final rest at his home in Shamokin in 1868. A tanner by trade he erected the first industry, aside from those connected with coal operating, in Shamokin, building and operating a tannery on a site near that of the present Pennsylvania Railroad station and on which now stands the residence which he built and which is now occupied by the subject of our sketch. The home is notable as the first brick structure built in Shamokin. About the time of the breaking out of the war Mr. Evert abandoned the tanning business and engaged in the manufacture of soap, following the business for several years. He lived a comparatively retired life for two years previous to his demise. Politically Mr. Evert was not active and he never aspired to office, although a man of positive and -liberal opinions. He was a pioneer of Presbyterianism in Northumberland County and long was an ardent and most active supporter and advocate of the doctrine in which he so firmly believed, and he held numerous offices in the early Presbyterian Church in Shamokin. Mr. Evert was married twice. To his estimable first wife were born seven children, one son, the subject of this review, and six daughters. Of the children who grew to maturity the eldest daughter, Malinda W., was the wife of Daniel Felix of Schuylkill County, and resided in Shamokin at the time of her death; Catharine is the widow of B. F. Boughner; and Sarah E. died at the age of sixteen years. The second wife was Mrs. Margaret Haas (widow) whose maiden name was Lunger, of Danville, Pa. By this union two children. John L. Evert and Mrs. Burton B. Smith, were born, both still residing in Shamokin. The second wife, and second-time widow, departed this life February 27, 1899, at the age of eighty-three years. Our subject was educated in the common schools of Shamokin and at the age of seventeen he entered the employ of George B. Cadwallader, druggist, as clerk, remaining in the drugstore in the town of Shamokin until the proprietor retired from business. In response to the call for men to serve in the army against the Confederacy our subject enlisted in Company C., 131st. Penna. Vol. Inf. He was detailed as hospital steward because of his knowledge of drugs and served nine months with great credit to himself. Returning to his home he entered the employ of the Northern Central Railway, working for two years as a clerk in the Shamokin office and then being transferred to the weigh-scales, where all the coal received from the east is weighed, as weighmaster. Mr. Evert is an enthusiastic Republican and has been a member of the borough council and also treasurer of his town. He is a prominent communicant of the Lutheran Church. On May 17, 1866, our subject was united in marriage to Mary J. Kreigh of Catawissa. To them have been born five children as follows : Clara, who is at home; Edward K. and William K., who are general merchants in Shamokin; and Harriet B., and Laura, who also are at home.(Book of Biographies of the Seventeenth Congressional District Published by Biographical Publishing Company of Chicago, Ill. and Buffalo, NY, 1899 , pg. 442 Transcribed by Tammy L. Clark)

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