BIOGRAPHY: Tarring Davis, History of Blair County, PA, Vol. II, 1931 - File 7 Contributed July 2003 for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Sharon Russell Judy Banja Copyright 2003. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/blair/ _________________________________________ A HISTORY OF BLAIR COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA UNDER EDITORIAL SUPERVISION OF TARRING S. DAVIS LUCILE SHENK ASSOCIATE EDITOR VOLUME II PUBLISHERS NATIONAL HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION, INC. HARRISBURG 1931 BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 181 ULYSSES SAMUEL WHARTON, M. D., has been engaged in practice at Altoona for more than a decade and a half. Born at Averett, Virginia, December 6, 1885, he is a son of Rev. George D. and Mary (Craddock) Wharton, who now resides at Averett, Virginia. The father is a doctor of divinity, preaching at Oxford, North Carolina, and Averett, and also engaged in the real estate business. Doctor Wharton attended the public schools of his native city and graduated from Hampton Institute in 1904 and from Oberlin Academy, Oberlin, BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 182 Ohio, in 1908. He received his degree of Doctor of Medicine from Howard University in 1913 and served a year's interneship at Freedman Hospital. In 1914, he came to Altoona to enter upon the active practice of his profession and since continued here. He is a member of the American Medical Association, Medical Society of Pennsylvania, and the Blair County Medical Society, as well as holding membership in the Altoona Chamber of Commerce. He attends St. Barnabas' Episcopal Church. Doctor Wharton married Cordella Hughes Murdock, daughter of Robert and Isabella Murdock, of Washington, D. C., and they have two sons: Ulysses S., Jr., and George Murdock Wharton. WATSON D. WILLOUGHBY, Altoona manager for the Bell Telephone Company, was born at Huntingdon, Pa., December 11, 1892, and is a son of Frank deceased, a native of the same place, and Sarah (Morrison) Willoughby, who was born at Hyattsville, Maryland. The father was editor and publisher of the Huntingdon Daily News, a newspaper of that city, later identified with the J. C. Blair Company of the same city. After completing the prescribed courses of the Huntingdon graded and high schools, Mr. Willoughby entered Juniata College, from which he graduated in 1912. In 1912, he entered the employ of the Bell Telephone Company at Kansas City, Missouri, where he remained two years, and was then transferred to Altoona for a year and a half. For three years thereafter, he was manager at Huntingdon, manager for a like period at Chambersburg, Pa., and manager of the Lebanon office one year. On January 1, 1928, he took over the managership of the Altoona office for the company and has since continued in that position. He is a member of the various Masonic bodies, Chamber of Commerce, and Kiwanis Club, and attends the Presbyterian Church. Reba Barton, of Bedford, Pa., became his wife, their home being in Altoona. WILLIAM LEE WOODCOCK. It falls to the lot of comparatively few men to complete a career of such constructive endeavor, such widespread beneficence, as that of William Lee Woodcock. The ramifications of his career are many and diverse, but he is known chiefly as a distinguished barrister, author, a true Christian and philanthropist. His success in his particular field of endeavor was predicated to a great extent upon his unusual powers of observation, his talents as a stylist and his innate forensic ability. William Lee Woodcock is a native of Wells Valley, Fulton County, having been born there October 20, 1843, a son of John and Sarah (Alexander) Woodcock. The Woodcock family came from England to America as early as 1764. The grandfather settled in Delaware and there John Woodcock was born in 1800, but from the age of five years was reared in Bedford County, Pa. In middle life he moved to Fulton County and in advanced age retired in Altoona, where he died in 1874. William L. Woodcock received his education in the Martinsburg Academy and Allegheny Seminary and prepared for the bar under the able supervision of his older brother, the late Samuel M. Woodcock. Subsequently, he was admitted to practice at the courts of Blair County, October 27, 1868. Prior to accepting law business, BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 183 Mr. Woodcock taught school for a time and during one term was principal of the Philipsburg High School, in Centre County. During the Civil War, he served his country for a period of twenty-three months in Company F, 77th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, the latter part of this service being with the Signal Corps where he ranked as lieutenant. Although retired from active affairs at this time, Mr. Woodcock was during his productive years one of the leading attorneys of Blair County. For the last half century, he has devoted much of his time and ability to the welfare of the Methodist Episcopal Church, one of his services being that of superintendent of the Sunday School, having been superintendent of Sunday Schools for fifty years. In 1926, he retired from that office and was voted superintendent emeritus for life and was presented with a scroll setting forth his activities for the past fifty years in church work. His liberality has extended the cause of missions, educational institutions and church enterprises throughout the land and his timely giving made it possible to construct the Grace Methodist Church in Altoona. He has been elected three times to the General Conference, which is the law-making body of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Woodcock is also a member of the Board of Trustees of Dickinson College and the American University at Washington, D. C. He is vice- president of the Second National Bank of Altoona and a member of the Blairmont Country Club, and the Pennsylvania Society of New York. He has been an extensive traveler throughout the United States and Europe, visiting the Continent on three different occasions. In the year 1912, he wrote the "History of the Woodcock Family" and published a book entitled "Some Speeches and Etc.," being his creed in life, and excerpts from his many addresses at public meetings. In 1900, Miss Lydia Ferguson, of Pittsburgh, became the wife of Mr. Woodcock, and they are the parents of two daughters: Elizabeth F., and Eleanor Lee, who on July 21, 1931, was united in marriage to Mr. Sydney Ralph Peters, of Birmingham, England, who is now in the London University, preparing for ministry in the Episcopal Church. Mr. and Mrs. Woodcock make their home at Hollidaysburg. JACOB SNYDER, deceased, was late retired referee of the State Compensation Bureau at Altoona. He was born in Penn Township, Huntingdon County, November 25, 1870, a son of the Rev. Abraham Snyder, who moved to North Woodberry Township in April, 1878, and later to Taylor Township this county. His mother was Susan (Grove) Snyder, a native of Huntingdon County. Jacob Snyder obtained a common school education and worked on the home farm until October, 1887, when he entered the employ of the Hollidaysburg and Gap Iron Company. He then learned the trade of miller with Akers, Galbraith & Company, with whom he worked until April 7, 1893, when the firm was taken over by the Bare Milling Company. Mr. Snyder continued as mill manager until February 1, 1896. Two days later he became an employee of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company in the air-brake department, was promoted to helper within a year, and later became a machinist. He became inspector in the trial BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 184 department, and was subsequently transferred to No. 3 Erection Shop as boiler inspector. On December 15, 1915, Mr. Snyder was appointed referee of the State Compensation Bureau, and was successively re-appointed to that office by the governors of the State until his retirement in December, 1930. Mr. Snyder was married twice: first, to Miss Edith Lingafelter, descendant of pioneer families in Blair County, on January 2, 1892. She was a daughter of George W. and Mary (Nofaker) Lingafelter. They became the parents of the following children: Arthur, of Altoona, a machinist by trade; Mary, a nurse; Erie, a school teacher; Samuel; Ruth; Daniel; Grace; Jacob Herman; William, and Louise, both deceased. He married second on May 12, 1927, Mrs. Rentha Nippe, daughter of Adam and Margaret (Mentzer) Raugh, of Roaring Spring. Mrs. Snyder is the mother of two children by her first marriage: Randolph Nippe, and Mrs. Maretta Boyle, of Roaring Spring. Mr. Snyder was active in the affairs of the Mennonite Church, of which he became a member at Martinsburg, in 1893. He became superintendent of the Roaring Spring Mennonite Sunday-School, in 1900, and so continued until 1906, when he was ordained minister on September 16th. On April 21, 1911, he was elected bishop of the church. From 1912 to 1924, he was a member of the Home Missions Board of the Eastern Conference of his church, and was a member of the General Home Mission Board for the Conference of North America from 1917 to 1926. For one year he served as moderator of the Eastern Conference. A resident of Roaring Spring, he took an active part in community affairs, and served on the local school board for two terms. In recent years Mr. Snyder's health failed materially, although he continued to fulfill his many duties faithfully until his death on April 2, 1931. His passing was a source of much grief to the family and community, where he was so closely affiliated with industrial and religious circles. H. S. BARTLEY, owner and manager of the Bartley Lumber Company, of Altoona, heads one of the leading concerns of its kind in this section of the State. Calvin Bartley, his father, was born in Juniata County, Pa., but spent most of his life at Altoona, where he established the Bartley Lumber Company, in 1880. Harry S. Bartley was born in Juniata County, Pa., March 20, 1869, and obtained his education in the public schools of Altoona. His entire business career has been with the Bartley Lumber Company, for he entered the employ of his father when he had finished school. In 1920, he took over the business, and has since been owner and manager. Handling lumber and building supplies of all kinds, the concern is regarded as one of the most substantial in its field in this section of Pennsylvania. Mr. Bartley is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Odd Fellows, and Junior Order of United American Mechanics. He attends the Third Presbyterian Church. Mr. Bartley was united in marriage to Mary R. Ferguson, daughter of Theodore and Jennie Ferguson, of Altoona, and they maintain their home at 1401 Tenth Street. A few of the buildings Harry S. Bartley built in Altoona, Blair County, are the Hile Apartment, on Hoeard [Howard ?] Avenue and Fourth Street; Delena Apartment, BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY 185 Chestnut Avenue and Tenth Street; Weir Apartment, Sixth Avenue and Fourth Street; Moose Lodge, Eighth Avenue and Twelfth Street; and the Third Presbyterian Church, Fifth Avenue and Second Street. Cornelius and Margaret Bartley were pioneer settlers of East Waterford, Juniata County. They were married in 1800, and reared a large family on a farm. There were John, Elizabeth, Aneline, Calvin, Margaret and Cornelius. Elizabeth became the wife of Benjamin Kepner, who for years had a stationery and book store on Main Street, Mifflintown, Pa. Cornelius also married and lived on Cherry Street in Mifflintown, Pa. Calvin learned the carpenter trade and served four years' apprenticeship. He was married in 1852 to Sarah A. Duffield, of Ickesburg, Perry County. They went to housekeeping in Port Royal then Perryville, Juniata County. They resided there two years then moved to Mifflintown where Mr. Bartley was engaged in contract work. He built many of the largest and best buildings in the town and the surrounding country. Many of the large bank barns of the country show his handiwork. The Billy Banks' barn is one of the fine barns built by Mr. Calvin Bartley. Sometime in the seventies a fire destroyed all the business buildings on Main Street, Altoona. Mr. Bartley rebuilt some of them. Attorney Altison and Attorney Lyons' homes were built by Mr. Bartley. Mr. Bartley and wife lived for some years at Cuba Mills, where they reared a large family: Anna, Mary, Laura, William, Amos, Grant, Jennie May, Harry, Thomas, Charlotte and Charles. In 1879, Mr. Bartley moved to Altoona, Pa., where he worked for several years at the building trade. He was an architect and builder of wide experience in 1902. Mr. and Mrs. Bartley celebrated their fiftieth or golden wedding anniversary surrounded by their children and grandchildren and 150 invited guests. Two years later, Mrs. Sarah A. Bartley died and in 1915, Mr. Calvin B. Bartley died, and both were buried in Rose Hill Cemetery, Altoona, Pa. Calvin B. Bartley at the age of twenty-one built the Billy Banks' barn, the largest and best bank barn in Juniata County. He cut and hewed the timbers in the woods piece by piece, wherever they could be found. When this was completed they had a barn-raising which was attended by about 500 people, among whom were three of the oldest barn builders in the county. They came to see young Calvin Bartley have trouble putting the frame together, but they were disappointed as there was not a sharp edge tool used on the job to alter or to change mortices or tennents. The only tool that was used was a wooden maul to drive the timbers together. BLAIR RODKEY BICE, merchant of Martinsburg, was born in Frankstown Township, Blair County, June 13, 1889, a son of John F. and Annie (Rodkey) Bice, the mother being a daughter of Henry Rodkey, pioneer merchant of Frankstown, Pa. John F. Bice engaged in farming throughout his active life, his death occurring in 1929, and that of his wife in 1898. Blair Rodkey Bice received a BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 186 public school education and for eight years thereafter clerked in the store of John Law and Thomas Lawley, early clothing house of Hollidaysburg. For a few years, he worked at the Glessner Department Store, and in 1915, he opened a general store at Blairfour, Blair County, and operated that enterprise until October, 1929. In 1920, he opened a store at Martinsburg and has since conducted that enterprise with great success, employing four persons. The store at Blairfour was removed in 1929 to Millerstown, where it is now operated under the firm style of Bice & Swartz by Mr. Swartz. Mr. Bice takes a deep interest in the affairs of the community and was one of the organizers of the Martinsburg Boosters' Association. He is serving at the present time as a member of the school board. He is president of the board of trustees of the Methodist Episcopal Church, chairman of the Troop Committee of the Boys Scouts, and a member of the Masonic fraternity, and Odd Fellows. In 1913, Mr. Bice took for his wife Bertha Miller, of Frankstown Township, and they have two sons, Blair R., Jr., a graduate of the Martinsburg High School, and John, who is attending school. CHARLES W. BOHN, deceased, was a member of a prominent family who have been identified with progressive movements in the Cumberland Valley since the Colonial period. He was born at Chambersburg on September 11, 1859, a son of Valentine Bohn, a farmer, and Henrietta (Wolf) Bohn. Valentine Bohn served in the Union Army during the Civil War, contracted tuberculosis, and died before peace was declared. Charles W. Bohn was educated in the government school established for the children of United States soldiers and sailors. He obtained a position with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as a boy, and was first employed in the cabinet shop. There he worked for four years, or until he was transferred to the road as brakeman. He advanced rapidly, and after eight years was fireman, and at the end of a similar period became passenger engineer on the Middle Division. For fifteen years he served the company faithfully as an engineer, undertaking great responsibilities, and was accidentally killed in the Altoona yards by a shifter on January 4, 1920. His death stunned his family to whom he had always been devoted, and saddened the community in which he had made many friends. Mr. Bohn was a member of the United Brethren Church and the other members of his family are Roman Catholics. He was affiliated with the Knights of Pythias and the Pennsylvania Railroad Relief Association. He married Miss Jessie A. McCune, at Altoona, in September, 1882. She was a daughter of John McCune, an employee of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, and Mary (Gallagher) McCune, the latter of Newry, this county. They became the parents of the following children: May G., who married J. P. Reading, of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company; Charles W., actively connected with the city water department in Altoona; James E., engaged in the automobile business at Detroit, Michigan; Walter H., with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company; Ruth, now Mrs. Van E. Mercer, whose husband is employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad Company; and Margaret, deceased. Mrs. Bohn is a resident of Altoona, at 154 14th Street. BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 187 FRANK DITTING CLIBER, representative in Hollidaysburg of the Reo Motor Car Company, was born here in 1890, and is a son of John W. and Amelia (Ditting) Cliber, the former of whom is deceased and the latter of whom resides in Hollidaysburg. The father engaged in the insurance business for many years and was active in the Republican politics of the city and county, serving two terms as Recorder of Deeds of Blair County. Frank D. Cliber graduated from the Hollidaysburg High School in 1908, and from Pennsylvania State College in 1912, receiving from the latter institution the degree of bachelor of science in mechanical engineering. Returning to his native town, he became identified with the automobile business and is now the local dealer for the Reo Company, a field in which he has met with unqualified success. Since the death of his father in 1924, Mr. Cliber has carried on the insurance concern established by the former. He is also treasurer of the Hollidaysburg Building & Loan Association and a director of the Citizens Bank, of Hollidaysburg. He attends the Lutheran Church and is a member of the Kiwanis Club, of which he is vice-president. In 1917, he married Grace L. Ernest, of Williamsburg, Pa., and they have one daughter, Annette, born in 1928. ROBERT ALLEN COOK, sheriff of Blair County, was born at Altoona, Pa., in 1873, and is a son of William Thomas and Elizabeth (Hodge) Cook, both of whom are deceased. The father was identified with shop work throughout his life and was foreman of the Juniata shops of the Pennsylvania Railroad at the time of his death. Robert A. Cook attended the graded and high schools of Altoona and entered the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1892, working in the shops. In 1920, he gave up this position to enter railroad work on the Pacific Coast for a short time. Returning to Altoona, he was appointed clerk in the office of the county commissioners, January 1, 1922, and was so employed for eight years. In the autumn of 1929, Mr. Cook was elected sheriff of Blair County, taking office January 6, 1930. He is a Mason, a member of the Patriotic Order Sons of America, and a communicant of the Episcopal Church. Minnie Harris, of Altoona, became his wife, and they have these children: Selina E., the wife of Clyde Kay; Martha S., who married Emil Neher; Viola I., of Altoona; and William R., a student at Pennsylvania State College. CHARLES A. FAWBER, M. D., physician and surgeon of Altoona, was born in this city, September 18, 1898, and is a son of Hiram and Catherine (Ford) Fawber, who now reside in Altoona, where the former has long been an employee of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Doctor Fawber obtained his early education in the graded and high schools of this city, graduating from the latter in 1918. Preparatory to his medical studies, he attended Pennsylvania State College, from BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 188 which he graduated in 1922, after which he matriculated at Hahnemann Medical College, Philadelphia, from which he received the degree of doctor of medicine, in 1925. He served his interneship at the Homeopathic Hospital, Scranton, Pa., and in February, 1927, entered upon the active practice of his profession at Altoona. He is a member of the Pennsylvania Homeopathic Medical Society, Blair County Medical Society, and Phi Epsilon Rho, professional medical fraternity. Doctor Fawber maintains offices at 1113 Twelfth Avenue. He attends Calvary Baptist Church and is a Republican in politics. CHARLES RYAN FORBES, of Hollidaysburg, engineer of the Pennsylvania State Highway Department in this district, was born at Quarryville, Lancaster County, Pa., a son of David R. and Ella M. (Pinkert) Forbes, who now reside in that county. Educated in the schools of his native county, he graduated from the high school in 1903, and was then employed in the engineering department of the Pennsylvania Railroad. In 1907, he became associated with the Pennsylvania Department of Health and was placed in charge of the construction of three sanitariums for the treatment of tuberculosis at Mt. Alto, Hamburg, and Crescent [CRESSON ?], work with which he was occupied until October, 1915. At that time, he entered the employ of the Philadelphia & Reading Railroad as assistant engineer of construction and in that capacity was located at Harrisburg and Reading, Pa. On March 20, 1922, he came to Blair County with the Engineering Division of the Pennsylvania Department of Highways, with which he has since been connected. He is a registered engineer and is well known among construction men of this section of the State. In February, 1914, he married Caroline E. Shay, of Salem, New Jersey, and they have two children: Robert and Helen, both of whom are attending school in Altoona, where Mr. Forbes maintains his home, though his offices are in Hollidaysburg. LEVI FRANCIS GILBERT, principal of the Altoona High School, was born at Pennsville, Fayette County, Pa., a son of James Reed and Hannah (Kremer) Gilbert, natives, respectively, of Mt. Pleasant and Uniontown, Pa. The father spent the greater part of his life as a blacksmith at Mt. Pleasant. He died in Parsons, West Virginia, June 11, 1930, his wife dying July 14, 1900. They were the parents of these children: James William, of Gettysburg; Mrs. Sarah Ryan, of Parsons, West Virginia; Mrs. Grace Hewitt, of Greensburg, Pa.; Sherrick, a teacher in the schools of Mt. Lebanon, Pittsburgh, Pa.; Mrs. Effie Cook, of Harrisburg, Pa.; Homer, who lives in Hazleton, Pa.; Levi Francis; Alexander, deceased; and Mabel, deceased. Born September 9, 1892, Levi F. Gilbert obtained his early education in the public schools of Bullskin Township, Fayette County, and his high school training at California and Shippensburg State Normal schools. For a time thereafter he taught school and then studied at the University of West Virginia, Shippensburg State Teachers College, and Franklin and Marshall College, from which he received a baccalaureate degree in chemistry in 1922. At Franklin and Marshall College, he played football, BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 189 basketball, and baseball, being captain of football in 1921. Following his graduation, Mr. Gilbert was assistant in science and dean of men at Shippensburg State Teachers College for four years. After a year at Girard College, he became principal of the Lansdowne, Pa., High School for three years and then accepted the principalship of the Altoona High School. In 1929, Mr. Gilbert received from the University of Pennsylvania the degree of master of arts in education. During the World War, he served as first-class private in the First Flying Cadet Corps at Fort Omaha, Nebraska, and as a consequence holds membership in the American Legion. He is also a Mason and attends the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Gilbert was united in marriage to Evangeline Kauffman, daughter of David and Anna Kauffman, of Mt. Pleasant, and to this union have been born two children: Margaret Marie and Warren Levi. JACOB ISAAC GROSSMAN, deceased, was a prominent business man in Altoona before his death on July 11, 1928. He was born on April 9, 1863, and his parents were Simon and Rose Grossman. After leaving school he decided to become a tailor. This type of work was much to his liking and he followed it for most of his life. He lived in New York for fifteen years and then in Altoona. In the latter city he owned and operated a tailoring house for thirty years. In November, 1888, Mr. Grossman married Miss Rose Schusterman, daughter of Leonard and Miriam Schusterman, in New York. Mr. and Mrs. Grossman were the parents of the following children: Samuel, Moses, Tillie, David, Milton, Victor, Florence, George, and Miriam. The last named is the wife of Abraham B. Karp, and resides at 1511 Eighteenth Avenue, Altoona. Mr. and Mrs. Grossman were actively associated with the Beth Israel Temple, Altoona. J. L. GRUVER, cashier and treasurer of the First National Bank of Juniata, at Altoona, was born in Juniata County, Pa., November 15, 1876, a son of William P. and Margaretta F. (Gilliford) Gruver, the former a native of Franklin County and the latter of Juniata County, Pa. The father was a farmer in Juniata County until 1899, when he established himself at Altoona as a merchant, in which he engaged until the time of his death, his wife dying in 1897. J. L. Gruver obtained a public school education and in 1899 entered the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad at Altoona as a clerk, a position which he retained until December, 1909. Thereafter, until 1919, he was a bookkeeper with the Altoona Trust Company, becoming cashier of the First National Bank of Juniata in the latter year. He is also interested in the Bellevue and Sterling Building & Loan Associations. Fraternally, he is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and his religious affiliations are with the First Presbyterian Church. He married Ruth Boush, daughter of Sherman M. Boush, of Williamsport, Pa., and to them have been born three children: Jane Helen, James L., Jr., and Jack William. The First National Bank of Juniata is capitalized for $25,000 and had its inception in May, 1906, with these officials: David E. Parker, president; D. G. Meek, cashier; E. J. Lomnitz, vice-president; and W. A. Roberts, Frank Haid, William BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 190 N. Bayles, L. F. Hinman, C. C. Meninger, and J. K. Hamilton, directors. The present officers and directors are: V. A. Oswald, president; J. W. Parks and W. S. Simpson, vice-presidents; J. L. Gruver, cashier; and Dr. J. L. Brupasher, Thomas G. Peoples, and N. E. Roher, directors. W. WALTER HENRY, manager of the Altoona office of the Pennsylvania Manufacturers' Association Casualty Insurance Company, was born in this city, February 16, 1877, and is a son of Mordecai M. and Emma (Roush) Henry, natives, respectively, of Huntingdon and Centre County, Pa. The father was employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad at Altoona in a clerical capacity until the time of his death in 1886. His wife dying in 1926. They became the parents of three children: Elliott Sanford, W. Walter, and E. Blanche, the wife of Frank M. Zath. W. Walter Henry attended the graded and high schools of Altoona and found his first employment as a clerk in the store of the Puritan Coal Company, Puritan, Pa., subsequently spending several years in Pittsburgh. Returning to Altoona in 1907, he entered the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad in a clerical capacity and remained with that company until 1915. In that year, he was appointed by Governor Brumbaugh to organize the local affairs of the State Workmen's Insurance Fund and was so engaged until 1918. He then became treasurer of the William F. Gable Company, a connection which he maintained until 1927, when he assumed the managership of the Pennsylvania Manufacturers' Association Casualty Insurance Company. Mr. Henry married Edna F. Pensyl, daughter of H. H. and Juniata (Warfel) Pensyl, of Altoona. Mr. Henry is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the Shrine Luncheon Club and is a Republican in politics. REV. JOHN HENRY HOUSEMAN. In all the world of labor and service there is probably nothing that reaches further into the heart of a man than religion. What labor, therefore in this life could be more gratifying both to the servant and the served, than that which guides the feet of many along that endless pathway that is light and life. Thus the whole life of the late Reverend John Henry Houseman was dedicated to the service of the "Master of all good workmen," for as a servant of man, he was also a servant of God. He was born in Centre County, January 9, 1842, a son of Andrew H. and Mary Elizabeth (Grenoble) Houseman, the former of whom was a shoemaker by trade. John H. Houseman attended the public schools of Centre County and in 1864 entered the Pine Grove Mills Academy, and after two years' time attended Bolesburg [Boalsburg] Academy. In 1867, he assisted Professor G. W. Leisher in the duties of teaching, and in 1868 he entered Wittenburg College at Springfield, Ohio, graduating from that institution in 1872. He received the degree of Master of Arts from the Theological Seminary at Gettysburg in 1874. He was ordained to the ministry and in the following year received his first charge at Mount Zion and Turtle Creek, Washington County. Subsequently he served at New Springfield, Ohio; Maytown, Bainbridge, Milroy, Sieglerville, Hooversville, Lairds- BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 191 ville, Mill Creek, and Bellwood charges, coming to Juniata in 1903. Although practically retired in his last years, he assisted Rev. Marion J. Kline, of the First Lutheran Church, of Altoona, for twelve years. Reverend Houseman was always deeply interested in any or all affairs of civic betterment and could always be found on the side of right and justice. On March 6, 1874, Rev. Houseman was united in marriage to Mary Louisa Buck, daughter of John W. and Mary (Corbin) Buck. Two children were born of this union: Mary Elizabeth, now Mrs. J. B. Corbin, of Juniata; and Edgar T., deceased. The death of Rev. Houseman which occurred January 19, 1922, was mourned by the entire community as that of a man whose daily life had presented an example of every public and private virtue, and whose endearing personal qualities had surrounded him with devoted friends. JOHN KAZMAIER. Blair County lost one of her best known and most honored residents when John Kazmaier passed away on May 3, 1931, after a protracted illness. During his life, Mr. Kazmaier demonstrated his fidelity to the high ideals which he had formed in his youth and was known for his many acts of charity. He was born in Erie County, Pa., on April 25, 1861, a son of Andrew and Barbara (Renz) Kazmaier, both natives of Germany. Upon receiving his education in the public schools of Erie County, Mr. Kazmaier was sent to Germany by his father to learn the brewery business from the old masters. He remained in Germany for three years and upon his return to America, in 1879, worked in Baltimore, Philadelphia and Johnstown for some years, later establishing a brewery in Columbia. He came to Altoona, in 1896, and bought the Germania Brewery, which had been established in 1852. It was reorganized and equipped with modern machinery and was operated by Mr. Kazmaier until the passage of the Eighteenth Amendment. Since that time he has devoted his time to his duties as director of the Mountain City and Central Trust Companies and to a number of building and loan associations with which he was connected. He was a man of generous disposition, giving largely to all benevolences. His last large benefaction was the gift of the Franklin Hotel to the Altoona Rescue Mission. He was deeply interested in the welfare of his community and a backer of many movements for the betterment of Altoona. Mr. Kazmaier was a member of the various Masonic bodies, and has been honored by the Jaffa Shrine Temple. He was also a member of the Royal Order of Jesters, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, Fraternal Order of Eagles, and the various German societies. He was an active member of the Grace Lutheran Church. In social affiliations, he belonged to the Medina Athletic Club, Chicago; the Spruce Creek Rod and Gun Club, the Blairmont Country Club, the Altoona Cricket Club, and the Juniata Valley Colony Club. He was married January 17, 1906, to Nellie J. Kemp, daughter of Charles Kemp, of Reynoldsville. One son was born to the marriage, John Kazmaier, Jr., who died when seven years of age, in 1918, during the Flu epidemic. Mrs. Kazmaier, together with their son, Jack Kazmaier, now a student at Valley Forge Military Academy, at Wayne, Pa., make their home at the beautiful family residence, Kazmaier Villa. BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 192 WOODS B. IRVIN, district superintendent at Altoona for the Prudential Insurance Company, has been identified with the insurance business of this city since 1895. Born at Turbotsville, Northumberland County, Pa., July 23, 1864, he is a son of Daniel E. and Margaret E. (Riley) Irvin, the former a native of Montour County, Pa., and the latter of New Jersey. The father was a blacksmith by trade, which he followed at Williamsport, Pa., and in his native county. Woods B. Irvin attended the public schools of Turbotsville, and found his first employment on a farm near Danville, Pa., work for which he received four dollars per month. For a period of ten years, he was connected with Williamsport Saw Mills, at which place, January 13, 1886, he entered the employ of the Prudential Insurance Company as agent. For the same company, he worked at Hagerstown, one year; Sunbury, two years; Danville, two years; and Johnstown, two years. He then came to Altoona to assume the duties of district superintendent of the office here, which now employs some seventy-five persons, and in this position he has since continued. Mr. Irvin married Annie Hanst, of Williamsport, Pa., and they have a son, Karl F., who is an orchestra leader in Altoona. Mr. Irvin is a member of the Elks and Kiwanis Clubs, and as a member of the First Lutheran Church, he has sung in its choir for twenty years. FRANKLIN P. KELLER, cashier of the First National Bank, of Williamsburg, is a native of Catherine Township, Blair County, where he was born on a farm in 1891. His parents, John A. and Catherine (Isenberg) Keller, are now living retired in that township. Mr. Keller attended the public schools and Juniata College, graduating from the latter with the degree of bachelor of arts in 1912. During the succeeding year, he taught in the schools of his native place and in 1914 entered the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad as clerk. In 1915, he became assistant cashier of the Farmers & Merchants Bank, of Williamsburg, and remained there until the outbreak of the World War in 1917. At that time, he enlisted in the army, serving as supply sergeant of the 220th Field Signal Battalion, 20th Division, until the time of his discharge, March 3, 1919. Returning to Williamsburg, he became identified with the First National Bank as assistant cashier and was elected cashier of that institution in 1926. A Republican in politics, he is a member of the school board and formerly served as secretary for the school directors of Catherine Township and secretary for the road supervisors of the same township. He is a member of the Juniata Lodge, F. & A. M., and secretary of the local encampment of Odd Fellows. He attends the Reformed Church. In 1921, Mr. Keller married Marguerite Shelly, daughter of David and Nanna Shelly, and to this union have been born two children: William Philip, February, 1924, and Robert Franklin, December 10, 1929. NORMAN MILLER, supervising principal of the Antis Township Schools at Bellwood, was born at Three Springs, Pa., November 7, 1900, a son of J. R. BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 193 and Minnie (Corbin) Miller, who are now farming near Bellwood. Completing the course in the township schools in 1919, he graduated from the Altoona High School in 1921. He attended Harvard University, from which he received the degree of bachelor of arts in 1925 and that of master of education in 1928. He began his teaching career in 1925, spending one year at Juniata High School and a like period at Altoona Senior High School. Coming to Bellwood in 1928, Mr. Miller has since been supervising principal of the Antis Township Schools. He is a communicant of the Methodist Episcopal Church. HARRY DEAN PROUGH, deceased, was a well known figure in fraternal and industrial circles of Blair County. He was born on August 25, 1882, at Altoona, a son of George W. Prough and Eliza Prough. Harry Prough attended the public schools in the vicinity of Brush Mountain, and upon leaving school was engaged in farming for several years. He left his agricultural pursuits to take a position with the Logan Valley Electric Railways and remained with that organization for some time before coming to Altoona. Here he became an apprentice in the erecting section of the machine shops of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. After learning his trade, he was assigned to the manufacturing division of the company's shops, and rapidly became one of the most efficient workmen in his field. Outdoor life appealed to him and he was a great sportsman, woodsman and hunter. Mr. Prough was a communicant of the Lutheran Church and in fraternal circles was identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, and the Pennsylvania Railroad Company Relief Association. On November 10, 1904, he married Miss Huldah Leonard, at Hollidaysburg. She was a daughter of Samuel and Alice Leonard, of Oakland Mills, Juniata County. Mr. Prough's death occurred September 23, 1923, before he attained middle age, and his passing was a source of much grief to his wife and the many friends he made throughout the county. Mrs. Prough, who survives him, is a resident of Hollidaysburg. HAROLD C. SHAFFER, deceased, was one of the most promising leaders in business circles of Altoona and Blair County, who in the short span of his life was identified with the most progressive business, civic, and social movements of his community. He was born at Altoona on November 20, 1900, a son of George W. Shaffer, a native of Roaring Spring and founder of the Shaffer Chain Grocery Stores and Meat Markets. His mother was Margaret (Miller) Shaffer, also a native of Blair County. Harold C. Shaffer attended the public schools of Altoona and at the same time assisted in his father's stores. After completing his formal education, he entered the wholesale department of the business. Alert, keen to take advantage of new business methods, he soon advanced to manager, and eventually to the superintendency of all the stores. In addition he operated two French Pastry Bakeries. BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 194 On May 2, 1918, Mr. Shaffer entered the aviation service of the United States Army and was attached to the 40th Aero Squadron. At first he was stationed at Selfridge Aviation Field, in Michigan, and later at Kelley Field, San Antonio, Texas. While in the service he was advanced to the position of sergeant of the first class, and in December, 1919, was honorably discharged. After his discharge from the service of the United States, Mr. Shaffer returned to Altoona and then began the active, intensive affiliation with the business of his father, that culminated so unfortunately in his death, on November 24, 1926. The rapidity of his rise in business, the respect accorded him by men and women from all the walks of life, and his popularity among a host of friends, made his death a great tragedy to them all. Mr. Shaffer was a member of the First Methodist Church, of Altoona, was actively connected with the Kiwanis Club and was affiliated with the American Legion. On February 11, 1918, he married Miss Pauline Buechele, of Altoona, at Selfridge Aviation Field, in Michigan. Mrs. Shaffer is a daughter of Englebert Buechele and Mary (Strittmatter) Buechele. Mr. Buechele operated the Altoona Soap Manufacturing Company at 20th Avenue and 21st Street for many years before his death in 1904, and was a pioneer in that business here. Mrs. Shaffer was educated in the public schools and the high school of Altoona, and after her marriage took an active part in social and welfare work of the city. She is identified with the American Legion Auxiliary, the Junior Auxiliary of Mercy Hospital and the Altoona Child Welfare Association. She has always been a leader in these organizations and has served in various official capacities. Much of her time is devoted to the care and education of her four children: Robert George, born May, 1919; Bettie Louise, February, 1921; Donald Gene, February, 1923; and Mary Margaret, June, 1927. Mrs. Shaffer and her family reside in Altoona. JOHN AMOS SMITH, deceased, was one of the leading figures in the commercial and industrial life of Blair County, during his lifetime. He was born in Antis Township, this county, in 1830, a son of Jacob Smith, a prominent farmer, and Ann Smith. John A. Smith received his education in the rural schools of his community, after which he assisted his father on the farm until he was eighteen, at which time he became an apprentice to the carpentry trade working under John Westley in Altoona. It is interesting to note that he assisted in erecting the first home in Altoona. The residence of John McCartney was destroyed by fire and John Smith together with John Wesley contracted to rebuild it. It was there he met Margaret Jane McCartney, daughter of John and Charlotte (Crimson) McCartney, who later became his wife. About one year after their marriage, Mr. Smith gave up the carpentry business to take over the management of the vast McCartney farm, which incidentally was among the first land to be tilled in Blair County. After three years' time, he entered into a partnership with Abram Louden in a general store. This continued for about three years' time, when Mr. Smith established himself in the general mercantile store, which he ably conducted until 1896. The site of the store BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 195 was situated on the present location of Gables's Department Store. Upon disposing of his interests in 1896, he devoted his entire time to the development of his real estate holdings until his retirement from active affairs. Mr. Smith also served the citizens of Blair County as a county commissioner for many years. Mr. Smith was a member of the Methodist Church and Mrs. Smith was a member of the Lutheran Church. They became the parents of the following children: Letitia Ann, John MacCartney, Ida Mary, Alfred Lewis, Virginia Clair, Charlotte May, Dorothy Estelle, and Clifford J. Mr. Smith passed away February 13, 1923, at the advanced age of ninety-three. AMOS OGDEN TAYLOR was born at Centerville, Indiana County, Pa., February 15, 1852. He is the son of James Taylor and Susan (Ogden) Taylor, the former being a very prominent physician. Amos O. Taylor received his early education in the public schools of Centerville and attended the Blairsville Academy, later entering the Hahnemann Medical School from which he graduated in the year 1883. Mr. Taylor is affiliated with the Homeopathic Medical Society. He is a member of the Masonic Order, of the Williamsport Consistory and the Syria, Temple. Mr. Taylor married Margaret Paul. They are the parents of the following children: Susan Taylor, now Mrs. J. B. Boyer, Hollidaysburg, Pa.; Agnes Taylor (Mrs. Arthur Hafner), St. Johnsbury, Vermont; James S. Taylor, M. D., of Altoona, and S. Paul Taylor, M. D., of Altoona. On November 29, 1916, Mr. Taylor took for his second wife Carrie Hake Sauers. No children were born of this union. WILLIAM FENTON TAYLOR, JR., office manager for the West Virginia Pulp & Paper Company, of Tyrone, is a son of William F. Taylor, deceased, who was a justice of the peace at Tyrone, and of Mary Emma (Haupt) Taylor, a resident of this city. Born here, November 25, 1881, he was educated in the graded and high schools, graduating from the latter in 1899, spent five years in the employ of the Tyrone Iron Company, and worked with the Pennsylvania Railroad one year. On February 13, 1905, he came to the West Virginia Pulp & Paper Company as clerk and has since risen to the position of office manager, which he now retains. He is a director of the Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Tyrone Club, and one of the board of governors of the Nittany Country Club. In 1906, Mr. Taylor married Maude Mackey, of Altoona, Pa., and they have two daughters: Edna Mackey, a graduate of Chevy Chase School, Washington, D. C., and Sara Emma, who is attending the Harcum School, Bryn Mawr, Pa. WILLIAM H. WAGNER, deceased. Those of our citizens who sacrifice their lives in the fulfillment of duties deserve particular attention. William H. Wagner belongs to that group. He was born at Maitland, Mifflin County, in 1862, the son of Amos Wagner, a shoemaker, and Lucy Ann Wagner. After completing his education in the schools of Maitland, William H. Wagner engaged in mining for several years. An opportunity to enter the mercantile BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 196 business at Lewistown presented itself, and he took advantage of it. After several years he disposed of his business interests and became a brakeman for the Sunbury and Lewistown Railroad Company. He was promoted to the position of flagman in a short time, and then to conductor. While serving in the latter capacity he was killed in October, 1902, in the discharge of his duties. He was then only forty years of age, and his sudden passing served as a stunning blow to his family and many friends. Mr. Wagner was a member of the Methodist Church, the Junior Order of United American Mechanics and the Improved Order of Red Men. He married Miss Mary C. Cubbison, daughter of J. C. and Caroline Ruth Cubbison, members of old and influential Mifflin County families. Mr. and Mrs. Wagner were the parents of two children: Dr. Herman Lee Wagner, prominent dentist of Altoona, and Mrs. Florence May (Wagner) Riley, of Chambersburg. Mrs. Wagner resides at 1208 21st Avenue, Altoona. DONALD M. WEINING, Altoona, is a native of Dunkirk, New York, where he was born December 31, 1903, a son of Harry and Nellie (McCormick) Weining, the latter of whom was born in the same place and the former at Brookville, Pa. The father, whose death occurred at Erie, Pa., October 9, 1929, spent his career at Dunkirk and Erie, at the latter of which he was superintendent for the Hammermill Paper Company. Donald M. Weining, the younger of two sons, of whom the other is Harry, obtained his public school education at Dunkirk, New York, and Erie, graduating from high school in 1922. After a year and a half at Allegheny College, Meadville, Pa., he entered Edinboro State Teachers College, Edinboro, Pa., from which he received the degree of bachelor of science in 1929. He is now pursuing an M. A. degree at the University of Pittsburgh. In 1929, he entered upon the profession of teaching in the East Fallowfield Township Consolidated School, Crawford County. In September, 1930, he assumed the duties of principal of the Baker School, Altoona, and in September 1931, he became a member of the faculty of Roosevelt Junior High School. He is a member of the Alpha Chi Rho fraternity and attends the Presbyterian Church. In June, 1931, he was married to S. Autumn Birchard, former resident of Erie, who, had been an Art supervisor in the public schools of Altoona. BELLE WOOMER, principal of the Adams School, Altoona, was born at Colerain Forge, Huntingdon County, Pa., a daughter of Isaac and Regina (Rhoades) Woomer, the former a native of Alleghany Furnace, Blair County, and the latter of Greencastle, Franklin County, Pa. The father spent most of his life in Huntingdon County, where he followed the trade of miller, his death occurring there in 1920, and that of his wife in the same year. Belle Woomer obtained her early education in the public schools of Franklin Township, Huntingdon County; graduated from the Lock Haven Normal School and took special work at Juniata College and Lake Chautauqua. She began her teaching career at Graysville, Pa., and taught successively at Hastings and Juniata, Pa., before assuming the principalship of the Adams School at Altoona in 1924, a position which she still retains. BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 197 REV. MICHAEL CANOLE, is pastor of St. Leo's Roman Catholic Church, of Altoona, in which city he was born January 3, 1876, a son of Michael H. and Elizabeth (Clark) Canole, both natives of Ireland. The father, who died in 1913, was an employe of the Pennsylvania Railroad for many years, and the mother is still living in Altoona at the age of ninety years. The other children of this couple are: Mary, Elizabeth, Margaret, and Annie. Father Canole attended the local parochial schools, Grande Seminary of Montreal, and St. Vincent's College, and was ordained priest, July 8, 1900. He was first pastor of the Catholic Church, at Newry, which building he renovated, and there built the priest's residence. After three years, he was sent to Ehrenfeld, where he established a mission and erected St. James' Church during his pastorate of four years' duration. At that time, Father Canole came to Altoona to take charge of the newly created parish of St. Leo, and his work here has been signalized by the erection of a church, school, convent, and residence. The parish numbers some 160 families, and Father Canole is outspoken in his commendation of the people for their efforts in behalf of St. Leo's parish. REVEREND T. STACY CAPERS was born in Arcadia, Louisiana, October 1, 1888. He was the older child of Martha Caroline (Underwood) and Burnside Capers. His father was an Elder in the Presbyterian Church, Superintendent of the Sunday School, and for a number of years, president of the First National Bank of Arcadia. He had one own sister, Ruth, married to Carl Goff, of Eldorado, Arkansas; three half-brothers, Dr. R. L. Capers, of Bellefonte, Pennsylvania; William Kenneth Capers, of Chicago, and Burnside Capers, of Bellefonte Academy; four half-sisters, Clara Yarborough, who died in infancy; Eula Maude, married to Reginald Hightower, of Arcadia; Lenoir Capers, of State College, Pennsylvania, and Helen Capers, of Chicago. Mr. Capers received his early education in the public schools of Newman, Georgia, where he made his home after the death of his mother. Here he resided in the home of relatives, Dr. and Mrs. James Stacy. Mr. Capers was a namesake of the Reverend Dr. Stacy and it was under the influence of this Presbyterian divine that he felt the call to the ministry. Dr. and Mrs. Stacy were like parents to him and made provision for his education both at home and abroad. After finishing the public school he was graduated from the Donald Fraser Preparatory School of Atlanta. He matriculated at the University of Georgia where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, Inter-Society Debater and a winner of the University loving cup in his class oratorical contest. The following year, together with his sister, he was sent to Macon, Georgia, and was transferred to Mercer University, while his sister attended Wesleyan College. At Mercer, he represented his literary society as debater and was a member of the official staff of the college newspaper as business manager of "The Orange and Black." After he received his bachelor degree from Mercer University he took post graduate BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 198 work at Grove City College, Princeton University and summer school work at the University of Paris. In September, 1913, he entered Princeton Theological Seminary where he was a member of the Friars Club. He was graduated from the seminary in 1916, at which time he was awarded an honorary fellowship which provided expenses for a year of study abroad. The war prevented him from taking advantage of this opportunity, but after the war Mr. Capers spent some time in travel and study in Europe and the Holy Land. During this trip he visited the Continent and the British Isles as well as Egypt and also attended the Passion Play at Ober Ammergau. For the past ten years, Mr. Capers has been pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, of Hollidaysburg, the historic old church which is the mother of Presbyterianism in the Juniata Valley. He was called to this church when he was acting as assistant to Dr. Maitland Alexander, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, of Pittsburgh, where he had served for three years. Under his pastorate the membership of the Hollidaysburg Church has grown from 311, in 1921, to more than 450. Just recently it celebrated a threefold anniversary of the life and work of the church and Sunday School by the completion of a $40,000 improvement program and the dedication of a new pipe organ with tower bells and memorial harp. The only other church with which he has been identified as minister was the Community Church, at Maywood, New Jersey. June 22, 1911, Mr. Capers was united in marriage to Miss Annie Keene Hedges, of Savannah, Georgia. She was a daughter of Annie Willingham Malone and James Keene Hedges, formerly of Decatur, Alabama. Their family consists of three boys: T. Stacy Capers, Jr., a student at Mercersburg Academy, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania; Fred Wallace, a student at Phillips Academy, Andover, Massachusetts, and Keene Hedges, a pupil in the Hollidaysburg Public School; and two girls, Ruthane and Martha Caroline, also pupils in the Hollidaysburg schools. In the Presbytery of Huntingdon, Mr. Capers has served for a number of years as a member of the Program and Field Activities Committee, first in the position of Every Member Canvas Director and second as Director of Missionary Education. He has also served the Presbytery in the capacity of Moderator during the church year of 1929 and 1930. He has been active in the work of the Synod of Pennsylvania, having been a member of the Executive Commission for two years and, for the past three years, a member of its council in which he is now serving as chairman of the Finance Committee of the Synod. FLOYD LOGAN GREEN is a foremost citizen of Blair County and has for twenty years been closely associated with the commercial, financial and industrial interests of the community and is also active on civic boards and community betterment projects. He was born November 30, 1888, in McConnellstown, Huntingdon County, a son of W. E. and Florence (Yocum) Green, the former a resident of Claysburg, and the latter of whom is deceased. Mr. Green was educated in the public schools of his home, Juniata College, in Huntingdon, and the Wade Business College; in Lancaster, after which he was connected BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 199 with the State Forestry Commission for a period of two years and later taught school for a short time. In 1912, he became associated with the Standard Refractories Company as general superintendent, remaining in that capacity until August, 1922, when the Standard Refractories Company was absorbed by the General Refractories Company, and at that time, Mr. Green was appointed district manager. In 1928, he was made vice-president and general manager of all operations of the General Refractories, including twenty factories and numerous mines and quarries throughout the country. Mr. Green is also president of the Consolidated Company, of Altoona; a member of the Board of Directors of the First National Bank, of Claysburg, and president of the Juniata Securities, of Claysburg. In politics, he takes active interest in the welfare of the Republican Party, and his religious affiliations are with the Claysburg Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a member of the various bodies of the Masonic Order as well as the Rolling Green Country Club, of Philadelphia, and the Juniata Country Club. In 1911, Mr. Green married Ella M. Huyette, of Alexandria, Huntingdon County, and to this union were born four children: Anna F., a student at Dickinson College; Herbert F., Richard S., and Harold H., all of whom are attending the Claysburg schools. LOUIS SILVERMAN, deceased. In the support of many civic, business and professional matters that indicate progress for Blair County, such capable leaders as the late Mr. Silverman are depended upon to lend their valuable aid and direction. Mr. Silverman was a merchant of established repute and place in the community and his career sets forth an excellent record of success. The affairs of Altoona of a civic nature received substantial benefit through his active guidance. Louis Silverman was the son of Joseph Silverman, one of the first Jewish settlers of Altoona, who became a powerful figure of his generation and a leader among men, and Esther (Crane) Silverman, and he was born in New York City, July 7, 1870. Louis Silverman attended the public schools of Altoona, then business college, and as a lad assisted his father in his store. Later he became a bookkeeper for Mr. Harry Slutzker, wholesale hosiery and notions. Immediately after his marriage to Amelia Kramer, on December 27, 1896, he launched into his career in earnest. In 1897, he entered into a partnership with Mr. Morris Lenson, and together they organized the Keystone Manufacturing Company, manufacturers of overalls. This firm dissolved in 1900, and he again entered a partnership of Silverman & Silverman, with his brother Herman, wholesalers and retailers for men's and ladies' furnishings. This venture continued with marked success and in 1905, Mr. Silverman opened the "New Idea Store," a retail clothing store, which is still being operated by his son-in- law, Meyer Kohn. On a hurried buying trip to New York, Mr. Silverman was taken ill and succumbed to death shortly after being brought home, March 27, 1930. His passing was a source of much grief to his family and host of friends and associates. During his lifetime, Mr. Silverman was an acknowledged civic leader, being a member of the Alumnae Building and Loan Association, and also very active in BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 200 the charitable work of Altoona. It was through Mr. Silverman's efforts that streets were paved, sidewalks laid and other important improvements were executed. He was a member of the Logan Blue Lodge, No. 490, Williamsport Consistory, Jaffa Shrine, Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, and he was also a member of numerous other fraternal organizations. Mrs. Silverman was a member of the Beth Israel Sisterhood and the Sunshine Society for years, being also very active in the charitable work of Altoona. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Silverman: Sophia, now Mrs. Meyer Kohn, of Altoona, they have one child, Anna B.; Clarissa, married to Dr. Louis Lass, a prominent physician of Altoona; and Junette, now Mrs. N. H. Freedman, of Altoona, and who has one child, Mervin. Mr. Silverman completed a beautiful home in 1920, which is one of the show places of Altoona, and Mrs. Silverman and family still reside there at 2301 West Chestnut Avenue. JOHN CALVIN LANG, JR., is an influential figure in legal circles of Blair County where he has been engaged in practice since his admittance to the Bar. Born at Hollidaysburg, this county, January 18, 1891, a son of John Calvin Lang, Sr., and Martha (Kephart) Lang, the former a retired farmer and ex-burgess of Hollidaysburg, he attended the local public schools. In 1913, having completed a course at Gettysburg College, Mr. Lang entered the law school of the University of Pennsylvania, whence he was graduated in 1916. Soon afterward he was admitted to the Bar of Blair County. The World War interrupted the career of Mr. Lang and he answered the call of his country by enlisting, November 30, 1917, in the 446th Depot Engineers, a detached division of railway operating engineers, serving overseas from January 2, 1918, until April 27, 1919. He was stationed at Dijon, France, during the major part of his overseas' service, but made several inspection trips through Strasburg, Metz and various other provinces. Mr. Lang received his commission on November 1, 1918, and was promoted from the rank of sergeant first-class to that of first lieutenant. Upon being mustered out of service, May 18, 1919, he returned to his home in Hollidaysburg and resumed his law practice and has since continued with increasing success. In conjunction with his extensive practice, Mr. Lang acts as referee in bankruptcy for the Blair County division in the Western Pennsylvania district of the United States District Courts. Miss Ethel May Nokes, daughter of Gilbert Lloyd and Dollie May (McIntyre) Nokes became the wife of Mr. Lang on June 25, 1924, and to this union have been born two children: John Calvin Lang, III, and Virginia Anne Lang. Mr. Lang is fraternally identified with the Masonic Order, the Williamsport Consistory, Jaffa Shrine, of Altoona; Alpha Tau Omega College fraternity, the American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He is also a member of the Blairmount Country Club, Kiwanis Club, Gettysburg Alumni Association, University of Pennsylvania Alumni Association, the Young Men's Christian Association, member and assistant conductor of the musical club of the Jaffa Shrine, the Jaffa Chanters, and the county, state BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 201 and national bar associations. Politically, he is a member of the Republican Party, and his religious affiliations are with the Hollidaysburg Presbyterian Church. J. KING McLANAHAN, JR., deceased, builder, and friend. In every community a few personalities by reason of outstanding virtues rise up, and tower above their fellowmen, making indelible impressions on the lives and institutions with which they come in contact. In Blair County such a personality was J. King McLanahan, Jr., late of Hollidaysburg. His scope of activity and variety of interests in business and civic affairs was so great that in reviewing them, one is bound to wonder how a single man could accomplish so much good in so short a time. Mr. McLanahan was born at Hollidaysburg, on December 27, 1871, the son of John King and Mary (Martin) McLanahan. He attended the Hollidaysburg public schools, and later studied at the Greylock Institute, in South Williamstown, Massachusetts. He entered the shops of the McLanahan-Stone Machine Company, at Hollidaysburg, in 1889. There he learned the trade of machinist, and received basic preparation for his life work. Three years later, he became interested in the lime and limestone business at Frankstown, developed the quarries there, and then became associated with the Jones & Laughlin Steel Company, as president of the Blair Limestone Company. In this way the career of one of the greatest and most able men in our county began. Each year seemed to bring with it some new interest. In 1902, Mr. McLanahan merged his lime and stone interests with those of A. G. Morris and A. A. Stevens, in the American Lime & Stone Company, and was secretary of that organization until 1922, when he became vice-president and chairman of the executive committee. That same year he purchased, with B. L. McNulty, of Chicago, the Marblehead Lime Company of that city. This was the largest company of its kind west of the Ohio River, and Mr. McLanahan was its vice-president at the time of his death. In the East, he became deeply interested in the chemical lime industry and in 1924 was made president of the New England Lime Company, at Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Aside from these major business operations, he served as director and treasurer of the McLanahan-Stone Machine Company, of Hollidaysburg; president of the McLanahan-Watkins Company, of Virginia; a director in the National Lime Association, of Washington, D. C.; president of the Woodbury Clay Company; an organizer and vice-president of the Citizens National Bank, of Hollidaysburg; charter member and director of the Pennsylvania State Chamber of Commerce, and chairman of its Publicity Bureau Committee. The breadth of Mr. McLanahan's interests in business affairs was great enough to identify him with the leading men of the nation. But it is a remarkable and significant fact that he was just as much interested in educational, religious and civic affairs as he was in the development of a business enterprise. That fact is established by his purchase, with his father, of the Hollidaysburg Seminary, and its reorganization as Highland Hall, of which he became president. This institution has become one of the most widely known, and largely attended BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 202 preparatory schools for girls, in Pennsylvania. Mr. McLanahan was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, of Hollidaysburg, and was president of its board of trustees for fifteen years prior to his death. The Altoona Hospital was fortunate in having him among its trustees for twenty-two years. In 1893, he became the first president of the Hollidaysburg Club, which he organized in conjunction with Judge Thomas J. Baldridge. The Blairmount Country Club was established at his suggestion and by his efforts in 1920, and he became its first president. In addition, he held membership in the Pennsylvania Society of New York, the American Society of Mining Engineers, of New York City; the Spruce Creek Rod and Gun Club, the Duquesne Club, of Pittsburgh; the Seaview Club, of Atlantic City; a charter and life member of the Blair County Historical Society; Altoona Cricket Club, Penn Athletic Club, of Philadelphia; the Park and Country Clubs, of Pittsfield, Massachusetts. On September 14, 1893, Mr. McLanahan married Miss Ella Amsbry Spendley, daughter of R. H. Spendley, of Hollidaysburg, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. McLanahan were the parents of two children: Helen Spendley, who married William Hatton Stevens, of Hazleton, Pa., and Elizabeth Hawley, now Mrs. Chauncey Chester Loomis, of Lenox, Massachusetts. The life and services of this great and good man were suddenly terminated on November 14, 1926, when he was only fifty-four years of age, at Pittsfield, Massachusetts, where he died, the victim of a heart attack. The deep and lasting impression that he made upon the lives and hearts of all persons with whom he came in contact is best expressed in the following quotations from editorials that appeared in newspapers and business journals then. From "Rock Products" came the following tribute: "Mr. McLanahan was one of the finest of the type of business man that America best produces, alert, active, vigorous, undertaking many things and carrying them through to success and at the same time finding opportunities for making enduring friendships and for attending to those public duties which every prominent man finds thrust upon him. His work in connection with two of the more important lime companies was enough to take up an ordinary man's time, but in addition to this he looked after his interests in financial and other institutions, took a deep interest in education, with which he was so closely connected, and belonged to many clubs in widely scattered cities in the eastern states. As for his genius for making and keeping friends, this cannot be better shown than by mentioning that a number of people have either written or called up 'Rock Products' since his death to speak of him and to express the sense of personal loss they felt in his passing." In the words of an editorial writer for the Hollidaysburg Register the deep impression that he made upon his fellow citizens is expressed: "Far better than any marble monument which may be erected to his memory, is that monument which he has built in the hearts of his friends, on which are inscribed the words, 'Pioneer, Builder and Friend.'" These are only a few of the many expressions of regret, bereavement and sense BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 203 of deep personal loss at the passing of Hollidaysburg's leading citizen. On the day and hour of his funeral the burgess of our county-seat ordered the business houses to be closed in his memory. Rarely do we find such a combination of fine forces that met in the character of J. King McLanahan, Jr., "Pioneer, Builder and Friend." Mr. McLanahan possessed an unusual personality, and was a lover of children, which was shown when a large group gathered at his home once a week for what was known as his "Stunt Night," and which event took place for many years. For a great number of years, Mr. McLanahan was the unknown host to a large dinner party of needy children at a Christmas Dinner at the Hotel in Hollidaysburg. So it is not hard to realize the great loss which was felt in this town when one of its most admired citizens passed away. LLOYD A. SMITH was born in Newry, Pa., May 2, 1895, and was a son of Harvey H., and Jennie (Ruggles) Smith, the former being a farmer all of his life. The subject was one of ten children born to Mr. and Mrs. Harvey H. Smith, there being seven boys and three girls. Mr. Smith bought the old Patterson Farm well known throughout the district, and from the age of ten years, Lloyd A. Smith assisted his father on the farm, while he attended the public school of Newry, Pa. After he completed his public school education, Lloyd A. Smith, at the age of eighteen years, became employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad, at Hollidaysburg, working under the foremanship of Howard H. Delzier, where he remained from the year 1912 to the year 1924, working in various capacities. Mr. Smith then decided to further his elementary school education, and took a course in business management from the LaSalle Extension University. In the year 1924, he embarked in the real estate and insurance business, and continued in this same line of business for himself, in 1927, locating in the Walsh Building, Hollidaysburg, offices which he still retains at the present time. Mr. Smith comes of a family who for many generations settled in Blair County. It is indeed a great pleasure for Mr. Smith to relate many pleasant memories of the old days in Newry, Pa., when there were two toll gates, one at the south end of the town, and the other at the north end of town, collecting five and ten cents to use the pike for a distance of two miles. Mr. Smith can relate interesting stories of his many acquaintances who were early settlers in Newry. Mr. Smith is very active in the politics of Hollidaysburg, at the present time being tax collector of Blair Township, Blair County, which office he has held for three terms. He is fraternally affiliated with the Masonic Order, Portage Lodge, No. 220, of Hollidaysburg, Pa. On December 23, 1913, Lloyd A. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Margaret H. Cunningham, of Hollidaysburg. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been born the following children: Paul T., Donald C. Dorothy M., and Helen M. Smith. They are members of the Newry Lutheran Church. Newry, Pa., is quite a historical little town, being one of the oldest boroughs in Blair County, being founded and settled by Patrick Cassidy, and is located between the Allegheny and Cove Mountains, about five miles from the BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 204 county capital. The town has no interests other than farming. In the year 1900, there was keen excitement aroused among the people when a company of men was founded and they commenced to drill for oil on the David Leighty Farm, when after drilling for a depth of about 2,000 feet, they became discouraged, and up to the present day, there is still doubt in the minds of many of the people that there might be oil on this land. Many very prominent personages, who have become very well known in the business world, were born and reared in the beautiful valley of Newry, Blair Township, Blair County, Pa. ISAAC C. HESS, assistant postmaster of Duncansville, Pa., is one of the best known citizens of that community. Born in Luzerne County, Pa., May 2, 1859, he is a son of Jacob and Sarah (Kline) Hess, both deceased, the former of whom enlisted in the Union Army in 1861, his fate being uncertain although it is known that he served almost to the close of the Civil War. Mr. Hess was first employed by the Jackson Wooden Manufacturing Company, Berwick, Pa., and later came to Duncansville, in 1882, to work as a roller in the finishing mills of A. R. Whitney. During this time, he studied the drug business and subsequently engaged in this business for himself, conducting a pharmacy at Duncansville for twenty-five years. Since 1904, he has been associated with the postal work of the community, serving ten years as postmaster and now holding the office of assistant postmaster. As a member of the borough council, he helped secure electric light and cement sidewalks for the community, and he, aided by State Senator P. W. Snyder and Marion Patterson, borough solicitor, induced the state to pave Third Avenue without cost to the borough, the street being on the route of a highway. Upon the death of H. F. Peck, Mr. Hess and Prof. H. S. Wertz purchased the marble and granite works, in which Mr. Hess still retains an interest. Mr. Hess married Josephine Malay, who died, leaving one son, John, who resides at Altoona. His second wife was Anna M. Myers, of Duncansville, Pa., a daughter of Daniel and Mary (Haun) Myers, both deceased, the former of whom was killed in the Battle of the Wilderness during the Civil War. Mr. and Mrs. Hess have three daughters: Restelle V. Barnum, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; Mary H., of New York City; and Esther H. Cowan, of Duncansville. In Masonry, Mr. Hess is a member of the Blue Lodge at Berwick, Pa., the Williamsport Consistory, and Jaffa Temple of the Shrine, Altoona, Pa. GEORGE CUNNINGHAM WILSON, president of the Wilson Chemical Company, of Tyrone, is a native of this city, where he was born in 1869, a son of Dr. James Thompson and Henrietta Boude (Clement) Wilson, both of whom are dead. The father graduated from the Medical College of the University of Pennsylvania and practiced at Tyrone for forty-five years, his death occurring in 1914. George C. Wilson was educated in the public schools of Tyrone and served as assistant postmaster from 1886 to 1891. In the latter year, he became private secretary for A. G. Morris, lime and limestone operator of this city, and continued in that capacity until 1902, since which time, he has given all of his BLAIR COUNTY HISTORY, VOL. 2 - 205 attention to his own interests. The Wilson Chemical Company was established in 1895 in a small way but has developed to the point where it ships its products to every part of the United States and to many foreign countries. The plant occupies a three-story stone structure and employs, on an average, some two hundred persons. He has built and operates many large theatres in Pennsylvania and Maryland, among them being the Wilson and El Patio, of Tyrone. He is also a director of the First National Bank, of this city. In 1898, Mr. Wilson married Louella I. Ross, of Tyrone, and they have a son, George Cunningham, Jr., who is associated in business with his father. He married Sallie Anderson, of Hollidaysburg, and they have one son George III. A daughter, Adelaide, died in 1929. In Masonry, Mr. Wilson is a member of the Chapter and Consistory of Harrisburg and the Shrine of Pittsburgh. ~~~*~~~