BIOS: Surnames SAU to STA - Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Jesse C. Sell, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911. File 12. Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by the Blair County Genealogical Society, 431 Scotch Valley Road, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648. Copied and proofread by Linda M. Shillinger LindasTree@aol.com OCRed by Judy Banja Copyright 2001. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/blair/ _________________________________________ CALVIN GRANT SAUER, general manager, secretary, and treasurer of a large department store at Williamsburg, Pa., was born August 31, 1869, in Bedford County, Pa., and is a son of George and Mandilla Sauer. George Sauer was a native of Germany and in 1855 came to the United States and located in Bedford County, Pa. In 1872 he came to Roaring Spring, Blair County, Pa., and for many years engaged in agricultural pursuits, but spent the last twenty years of his life in retirement. He was politically identified with the Republican party, and was religiously a member of the Reformed church. The parents of our subject reared the following children: Calvin Grant; Anna, who is the wife of John B. Miller; Raymond G.; and Norman F. Calvin Grant Sauer is one of the leading business men of Williamsburg, and was one of the organizers of the store of which he is now manager and is also secretary and treasurer of same. Charles M. Schwab, the steel magnate of South Bethlehem, is the largest stockholder of the company. For twenty years before coming to Williamsburg, Mr. Sauer was engaged in a general mercantile business at Altoona, under the firm name of Sauer Bros. and at present is senior member of that firm, doing business at No. 1314 Eighth Avenue. In 1908 the firm erected a building at the cost of $25,000, and they handle everything found in a modern mercantile establishment. The junior member of that firm is Raymond G. Sauer, who has charge of the Altoona business. The store is located in a building, which was built in 1895 and 1896, and occupies three rooms on the first and second floors each, the third floor of the building being devoted to the opera house of the borough, and it has a seating capacity of 1,100 people. Mr. Sauer was married in 1896 to Mary A. Nease, of Washington, who is a daughter of Jacob and Abigail Nease, who came here from Washington County, Pa. Mr. Sauer is politically a Republican, and his religious connection is with the Reformed Church. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 641. HARRY M. SAUSSER, chief clerk of the Tyrone Division of the Pennsylvania Railroad, at Tyrone, Pa., who has been identified with this company for the past twenty-four years in some capacity, was born at Berrysburg, Dauphin County, Pa., September 10, 1864. His parents were William J. and Sarah M. (Matter) Sausser. William J. Sausser and wife were both born in Dauphin County, where their fathers, Jonathan Sausser and A. J. Matter, both of German ancestry, had settled very early. William J. Sausser was a dealer in granite and marble, until 1866, at Berrysburg and afterward at Tyrone, where his death occurred when aged but forty-five years. His widow survived him for a long period, her death occurring in 1907, at the age of seventy-three years. William J. Sausser was a charter member of the Lutheran Church at Tyrone, his name being the first signed on the church list and he continued his membership as long as he lived. Five children were born to William J. Sausser and wife, as follows: Angelica, who is the wife of W. H. Bollinger, of Tyrone; Christian W., who is a general merchant at Bellwood, Pa.; Edwin C., an employe of the Tyrone Paper mill; Harry M.; and Jean R., who is a milliner and resides at Tyrone. Harry M. Sausser has been a resident of Tyrone since 1866. He obtained his education in the public schools and left the Tyrone High School in 1880, following his father's death, becoming a bookkeeper for Study Bros., general merchants, remaining with that firm until November 22, 1886. At that time he accepted a clerkship in the office of the superintendent of the Tyrone Division of the Pennsylvania Railroad. His efficiency and fidelity brought promotion and in December, 1903, he was advanced to be chief clerk for the road at this point. Aside from his personal business, Mr. Sausser has been a very active and useful citizen and at present is serving as a member of the school board and also of the board of health. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Sausser married Miss W. J. Bollinger, and they have a pleasant home at Tyrone, their residence being at No. 236 E. Tenth Street. Mrs. Sausser was born at Rock Springs, Center County, Pa. For the past eighteen years Mr. Sausser has been extremely active in the affairs of the Lutheran church, in which he was carefully reared. He has served as a member of the church council and as superintendent of the Sunday-school and has been interested in all the uplift movements of the church. For a quarter of a century he has been identified with the Y. M. C. A., and has served as a member of the board of directors and as a trustee, being treasurer of the latter organization. Mr. Sausser is a broad-minded, earnest man and the devotion he has shown to those things which work for the general welfare, is creditable both to his head and heart. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 953. ISAIAH SCHEELINE, a prominent member of the Blair County Bar, and a native of Altoona, Pa., was born in 1878, and is one of the leading business men of the younger generation of this city. His elementary education was obtained in the common schools of Altoona, graduating from the High School with the class of 1894, and after spending one year at Lafayette College, he graduated in law from the Dickinson Law School with the class of 1899. Mr. Scheeline then spent some months in Pittsburg, Pa., since which time he has been located at Altoona, where he has attained considerable prominence in his profession and practices in the various courts of the state as well as in the middle and western districts of the Federal Courts. In addition to his practice Mr. Scheeline is also interested in the Westfall Company of Altoona. He is politically an adherent of the Democratic party, but until 1910 never entered actively in politics. He is the present nominee of his party for congressman from this district. Mr. Scheeline is a member of the Hebrew Reformed congregation, is president of the United Hebrew Charities, is a member of the University Club, and the Beacon Light Club, and is fraternally a Mason, a Shriner and an Elk. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 612. J. P. SEEDENBERG, M. D., who has been a resident of Altoona for over two decades and who stands among the foremost men of the medical profession here, was born in Blair County, Pa., and is a son of the late E. B. Seedenberg, who died in February, 1908. For many years he was a prominent citizen of Altoona, was a member of the city council and served as chief of police under Mayor Giles. J. P. Seedenberg was a student in the Altoona schools until he entered upon the study of medicine. When prepared he entered Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, and was there graduated in the class of 1907. After serving as an interne, he came to Altoona to begin practice and for one year was resident physician at the Altoona Hospital, since which time his practice has been general and remarkably successful. He is a member of the Blair County and the Pennsylvania State Medical Societies. In October, 1908, Dr. Seedenberg was married to Miss Marcella Dalton, of Altoona. They are members of the Second Lutheran church. He is identified with the Order of Heptasophs. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 796. JAMES A. SELL. The subject of this sketch was born in Freedom Township, Blair County, November 23, 1845, and has resided in the county all his life. His ancestors came from Germany in 1729 and settled in Adams County. His grandfather, Abraham Sell, located at what is now Blair Township, near Brookes Mills. At this place his father, Daniel, was born and he spent his entire life in the community. He was joined in marriage with Rachel Detwiler in 1832. To them were born eight sons and a daughter, the latter dying in infancy, while the sons are still living, six in Blair County and two in Missouri. Daniel Sell died in 1901 at the age of 91 and his wife a few years later at the age of 90. She was a woman of remarkable force of will and strength of character. James A. was the sixth of the family and continued at home on the farm until he became of age. He united with the Church of the Brethren, March 6, 1863, and was elected to the ministry, October 24, 1865, when less than 20 years old. At this time he engaged in teaching school and when he attained his majority he accepted a position as associate editor of the "Companion," a church paper published at Tyrone, Pa., by H. R. Holsinger. His services in this capacity were highly acceptable, but this relation by force of circumstances was brief, lasting but a year. Confinement in an office was impairing his health and he was obliged to take up out-door work. He turned his attention to the carpenter trade and soon became an efficient workman. He was called to the ministry at a time when it was not common to advance very young men to this office. He gave immediate promise of efficiency and his services were in great demand. He was called the "boy preacher," and traveled extensively in the central part of his own state and in Maryland, speaking with power and attracting by his vigor and youth, as well as by his clear thought and eloquence, the young both in and out of the church. Ordained to the office of bishop at the age of 24, it was said that he was the youngest elder in his church. He had a scholarly cast of mind. He was denied the advantage of a college education, but he was a close student and an inveterate reader, and many of his discourses and much of his writing bear proof of high imaginative and poetic quality. He had and still possesses a keen appreciation of the beautiful, as many of his descriptive sketches indicate. The poetic element was very strong in his nature and some of his productions are worthy of recognition for their literary merit. He composed the song to which music was specially written to celebrate the bi-centennial services of his church. He is also the author of quite a number of other hymns. The most remarkable thing is the inexhaustible store of fitting sentiment he possessed, suited to all occasions. He possessed a wonderful power of fittingly weaving into his discourses the choicest gems of standard literature, and his addresses have always been the delight of the cultured. It has been a matter of much regret to himself and no less to those who appreciate native ability, that he did not enjoy in his youth the opportunity for a liberal literary training. His educational advantages were limited to the common schools, which in those days were inferior in methods and deficient in books. His father's library consisted of the Bible, Nead's Theology, a Lancaster Almanac and a few school books. He had a natural love of study and while other young people were amusing themselves in games and social pleasures, he devoted his time to study. The dearth of books led him to read the Bible closely. The simple theology of Nead interested him in the study of the doctrines of the church in which he became deeply grounded. As a preacher his more studied discourses were of the doctrinal type and he was always in great demand where such presentation was needed. After serving his congregation continuously for forty years, he was relieved of the charge at his own personal request. His words in making this request were: "I feel that the church has bestowed upon me honors and opened up opportunities for culture and development, and now I desire to afford the same privilege to others." His zeal was not abated and his mental and physical powers are well preserved and he does considerable preaching. On the 19th day of October, 1867, he was joined in marriage with Esther B. Stiffler, of Canoe Creek. To them were born four sons, Matthew W., now deputy prothonotary of Blair County; Jesse C., associate editor of the Altoona Gazette; D. Elmer, a teacher and justice of the peace, at McKee's, and Howard M., engaged in newspaper work at Hollidaysburg, In 1870, he located at Leamersville, where he has lived continuously to the present time. In 1882 he purchased a tract of land and engaged in fruit culture, in 1890 having the largest peach orchard in Central Pennsylvania. He was in great demand as a speaker to discuss fruit culture at farmers' institutes. His success as a fruit grower gave force to what he said and there followed a wonderful revival of this important branch of husbandry in the county. Thousands of trees were planted as the result, and to him rightfully belongs the credit of reviving an industry that has made for many others a profitable industry. Had he given more attention to his mechanical work he would doubtless have made a master builder. He could design large buildings and construct the finest cabinet work. He was indeed self-made and many sided. Although he was always engaged and often thronged with pressing demands, he still found time to read and write. He contributed to the church paper on religious, and to the secular papers on moral and industrial subjects. He was at once minister, carpenter, fruit grower, and author, but he will perhaps be remembered best as the author of the booklet, "The Lost Brothers of the Alleghenies," which will be found reprinted in the present volume. He is now feeling the weight of the years of his simple yet strenuous life, and with a pardonable pride in his pioneer work, he lays no claim to leadership, leading a quiet life surrounded by his books, of which he has accumulated a great number, extending far and wide into the field of literature. He is modest and conservative, wise in his judgment and untiring in his devotion to peace. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 538-540. JESSE C. SELL, is a native of Blair county, Pennsylvania. He is the second son of James A. and Esther B. Sell, and was born in Leamersville, July 21, 1872. His great-grandfather, Abraham Sell, was one of the pioneer settlers of the Juniata valley in Blair township, having moved there about the close of the Eighteenth century. His grandfather, Daniel Sell, was also a life-long resident of Blair county and died at the advanced age of 90 years. His mother's maiden name was Stiffler. His great-grandfather on the maternal was Henry Stiffler, who settled in the Loop, in Frankstown township, also about the close of the Eighteenth century. His grandfather, Joseph Stiffler, spent his entire life in Frankstown township and died at the ripe age of 91 years. Thus the subject of this sketch is a thoroughbred Blair countian and a descendent of a hardy stock. At a very early age he evinced a fondness for books, and such was his desire for learning, and it came to him so easily, that when he commenced going to school when only four years old he started in the second reader grade. Within two years he had made such progress that he was regarded as the best speller in the school and was studying all the branches taught in the school, displaying an especial fondness for history. He commenced teaching when 17 years old, but held a good certificate two years before. Teachers were not admitted to the profession under 18 years of age, but an exception was made in his case. He taught school for eight years, in Freedom, Blair, and Logan townships and in Newry borough and attended school at the Roaring Spring Academy, conducted by Prof. W. R. Vaughn and at Juniata College, Huntingdon. After leaving college he commenced the study of law under the instruction of William S. Hammond and J. Banks Kurtz, in Altoona, and was admitted to the bar on September 7, 1896. He opened an office in Altoona, but the strenuous work of preparation had undermined his health and he was compelled to give up his practice and retire from active business to recuperate. His strong constitution was in his favor and within a year he was again able to enter upon the world's activities. He now turned his attention to journalism and accepted a position on the editorial staff of the Altoona Times. In 1903 he was tendered the position of city editor of the Altoona Evening Gazette, which he has retained to this time. During the greater part of this time he has acted as editor of the paper, doing most of the editorial writing. In politics Mr. Sell is a staunch Republican and has taken an active part in the political affairs of the city and county. He was elected a member of the city common council from the Fourth ward in February, 1908. He introduced, and the councils passed, ordinances providing for semi-monthly payday for municipal employees, providing for an inspection of all electric wiring and creating the department of city electrician, abolishing paving and sewer viewers and other important legislation. On June 27, 1901, he was married to Annie R. Maher, a daughter of Michael and Mary Maher of Altoona. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 493. JOHN G. SELLERS, proprietor of one of the leading meat markets in Hollidaysburg, Pa., is also the owner of two other markets, one at Gaysport, Pa., and the other at Altoona, Pa., and he is also the owner of seven residences in this borough. He was born January 10, 1865, at Hollidaysburg, Pa., and is a son of David M. and Rebecca R. (Martin) Sellers, both deceased. John G. Sellers was reared and educated in Hollidaysburg, and during his early manhood worked on the railroad about four years, and subsequently spent four years in the employ of H. L. Bunker, who operated a meat market at Hollidaysburg. In 1889 he opened his market which is located on the diamond, in Hollidaysburg, of which his son, Edgar Sellers, has practically entire charge, and in 1898 he established a market in the Shoemaker building at Gaysport, Pa. The latter market is managed by his brother, William Sellers. His shop on Sixteenth Street, Altoona, was purchased in September, 1910, from J. A. Jones, and is under the management of his son, Harry B. Sellers. Mr. Sellers devotes the greater part of his time to buying and dresses all of his own meat, and the slaughter house, which is located on Juniata Street, is said by the state inspector, to be the finest in Pennsylvania, the interior being of concrete, with cement blocks, slate roof, and is fire proof. Mr. Sellers is politically a Republican, and is now serving his second term as a member of the borough council. He is fraternally a member of the Masonic order, the I. O. O. F., the Artisans, and the Woodmen, all of Hollidaysburg. He is a member and trustee of the M. E. Church, and has been superintendent of the Sunday School for fourteen years. He is a stockholder in both banks of this borough, and is auditor of the County Capital Building Association. He resides with his family at No. 804 Juniata Street. On February 18, 1885, Mr. Sellers was united in marriage with Miss Virginia Hughes, a daughter of Stephen Hughes, deceased, and of their union were born the following children: Harvey B., Edgar, Earl, and Helen. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 511. MILTON B. SHADE, a well known citizen and representative business man of Freedom Township, Blair County, Pa., a member of the firm of Shade Bros., general blacksmiths and repairers, at Leamersville, was born in this village, December 9, 1866, and is a son of John and Mary (Rhodes) Shade. John Shade and wife were born in Blair County, where the former died in May, 1907. His widow, who is now in her eightieth year, is one of the respected and beloved residents of Freedom Township. For fully a half century, the late John Shade was in the wagon-making business and had a shop at Leamersville, and at one time had a large trade. Milton B. Shade attended the public schools and when old enough to make a choice of trades, decided to be a blacksmith. He served an apprenticeship at Waterstreet, in Huntingdon County, and afterward carried on a blacksmith business for himself on the corner of Eighth Avenue and Fifteenth Street, Altoona, for a number of years, under the present firm name of Shade Bros. In 1901 he transferred his business to Leamersville, where he has a host of friends and enjoys liberal patronage. He is serving in his second term as a member of the school board of Freedom Township, and takes an active part in public matters affecting his section. Mr. Shade was married to Miss Sarah Young, of Waterstreet, Pa., who died in 1900, leaving three children: Willmina M., Mabel M., and Irma. Mr. Shade is a member of the Lutheran church. He is very active in the fraternal order of Odd Fellows, belonging to the lodge at East Freedom, of which he was the first noble grand and which he is now serving as chaplain. He is identified also with the Grange, Patrons of Husbandry, at Claysburg, and is a member of the National Horseshoers' Association, Local No. 494, at Altoona. Mr. Shade has a good business and a comfortable home, all of which he has secured through his own efforts and he stands well in every way with his fellow citizens. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 766. WILLIAM SHARBAUGH, M. D., a prominent physician and representative citizen of Altoona, Pa., has been identified with the medical profession of this locality for the past 18 years, and has won the esteem and confidence of his patrons and fellow citizens. Dr. Sharbaugh was born in 1849 at Summitt, Cambria County, Pa., and was there reared and received his educational training. He was engaged in the drug business in Clearfield County, Pa., from 1872 until 1887, and then attended the Baltimore College of Physician and Surgeons, graduating from the Kentucky School of Medicine of Louisville with the class of 1891. He soon afterward embarked in the practice of medicine at Altoona, Pa., where he has established an extensive and lucrative practice. He is a member of the Homeopathic Medical Association of Central Pennsylvania and of the C. M. B. A. of Altoona. Dr. Sharbaugh was joined in the bonds of wedlock, in 1882, with Catherine Bottorf of Clearfield County, Pa., and of their union have been born seven children. The religious connection of the family is with the Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 782. HON. EDMUND SHAW, formerly a member of the Pennsylvania State Legislature, in which he served two terms with distinction, is a leading member of the Altoona bar, and also a veteran of the great Civil War. He was born near Phillipsburg, Center County, Pa., December 4, 1836, and is a son of John and Mary (Waring) Shaw. The Shaw family comes from North Ireland. Family records tell that from County Derry, in 1795, two brothers of this name came to Pennsylvania, one of them being Robert Shaw, the grandfather of Hon. Edmund Shaw, of Altoona, He was twice married and the third son of his first union was John Shaw. John Shaw, father of Hon. Edmund Shaw, was born in 1809, in Mifflin County, Pa. He remained in his native place until he reached manhood and then moved to Phillipsburg, in Center County, where he followed the trade of a cabinetmaker until 1835. He then purchased a farm in Decatur Township, Clearfield County, Pa., where he carried on agricultural pursuits until within a few years of his death, when he retired to Phillipsburg and died there in 1869. He was an attendant of the Presbyterian church, although not a member, but was liberal in its support. In politics he was a Democrat and at different times was elected to township offices, serving with honesty and efficiency. He was married the first time to Jane Ann McKirk, who died without issue. His second marriage was to Mary Waring, who was born in England in 1809, and accompanied her parents to Phillipsburg in 1821. Her death occurred four years after that of her husband, and two of their eight children yet survive. Edmund Shaw was afforded excellent educational advantages. He attended both Cassville Seminary and the Normal School at Millersville, preparatory to entering upon a career as a teacher, but by the time he had completed his first term in the college, the Civil War had broken out and the attention of the young student was attracted to afar different sphere of activity. On September 16, 1861, he enlisted for three years, in Co. K, 110th Pa. Vol. Inf., thereby displaying a deep seated patriotism rather than the temporary enthusiasm which characterized many. His promotion was rapid, from a private in the ranks he was successively made corporal, sergeant and sergeant-major of his regiment, his further advancement being halted by the ball of an enemy on the field of Chancellorsville. He had participated in all the previous battles and marches of his regiment and on one occasion had been made a prisoner by the enemy, but as he was then wounded, he was willingly paroled by the enemy to save themselves the trouble of giving him medical care, and thus probably escaped a long season in one of the pestilential prison pens of the South, from the hardships incident thereto if not death. The injuries to his leg were so serious that his final recovery was a marvel. For ten days after he was wounded he lay on the battlefield and after he was found he was sent to the Union Hospital at Falmouth, Va., and later the Chestnut Hill Hospital at Philadelphia. No further active service in the field was possible and he was then detailed as a clerk in the office of the provost marshal at Washington, D. C., where he retrained until he was honorably discharged September 16, 1864. For one year he was compelled to use crutches. Doubtless life looked different to many of the returning soldiers of that mighty struggle and many, like Mr. Shaw, had given the very flower of their youth to the service of their country. His education had fitted him for a professional life and his thoughts and ambitions now turned to the law, and wisely as was subsequently developed. In the course of months he became a law student at Ann Arbor, University of Michigan, where he was creditably graduated in 1867. He then took up his residence at Martinsburg, West Va., being admitted to the bar there in 1868, and during his five years of practice at that point made substantial advances and in 1872 was elected prosecuting attorney of Berkley County. He continued in office until 1873. In looking about for a more remunerative if not more appreciative professional field, Mr. Shaw determined on Altoona and came to this city in 1873 and in the same year was admitted to the Blair County bar. Altoona has been his settled home ever since, although, during an extensive practice that has taken him to many other sections to appear in the higher courts, and during many years in public life, inducements have been offered him to take up his residence in other cities. He has, however, always been loyal to Altoona, believing in her future and reciprocating the cordiality and confidence of his fellow citizens. An enthusiastic Republican, Mr. Shaw has been one of the leaders in his party in state politics. In 1884 he was elected to the Pennsylvania Legislature. Approval was shown of his acts as a statesman by his reelection in 1886, and he served through two terms to the entire satisfaction of his constituents. His professional prominence was recognized to some degree in this body by his appointment as a member of the two chief committees, the judiciary and that of General and Municipal Corporations. To legislation of all kinds designed to benefit the public instead of combinations of capital, Mr. Shaw gave his hearty support and when he returned to private life it was with the confidence of the people unimpaired. As a citizen of Altoona he has many times proved his interest and usefulness, serving in the city council and on advisory boards. In 1882 he was a member of the civic organization known as the Committee of Forty-eight. In charitable and benevolent movements he has always been interested and his influence may be counted on when public spirited enterprises are under consideration. Since returning to private life he has continued active in the practice of law and ably represents a professional body that counts many brilliant men among its members. He maintains his offices in the Wilson Building, on one of the leading thoroughfares of Altoona. Mr. Shaw was united in marriage on December 14, 1869, to Miss Mary E. Smith, who is a daughter of the late Dr. David R. Smith, who was formerly a very prominent physician, widely known throughout the Cumberland Valley. Mr. and Mrs. Shaw enjoy a beautiful home which stands at No. 1130 Fourteenth Avenue, Altoona. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 715-717. OLIVER W. SHAW, a leading citizen and successful agriculturist of Blair Township, Blair County, Pa., resides on his well improved farm of seventy acres, to which he came in 1892. He is a native of Blair County, born in Freedom Township, March 31, 1862, and is a son of Samuel and Anna (Wilt) Shaw. Samuel Shaw was born also in Freedom Township and passed his whole life there, dying in 1891. His father, Thomas Shaw, was a native of the north of Ireland and was one of the very early settlers of Freedom Township, Blair County. In politics, the late Samuel Shaw was a Democrat, and in religious faith and observance, a Lutheran. He married Anna Wilt, whose father, Capt. Peter Wilt, was a pioneer in Freedom Township, and six of their family of children still survive, namely: Peter A., who is in business at Altoona; Samuel T., who lives in Blair Township; Oliver W.; Jennie M., who is the wife of Albert Growden, of Reed City, Mich.; Ellen E., who is the widow of Michael Stultz, formerly of Frankstown Township but now of Los Angeles, Calif.; and Martha M., who is the wife of Scott Wilson and resides near Los Angeles, Calif. Oliver W. Shaw remained in Freedom Township through his school period and until 1892, when he came to Blair Township and started a dairy business on his present farm and for a number of years was engaged in the wholesale milk business. Later, when he somewhat curtailed his business activities, he disposed of a part of his farm, and the village of Shawsville, named in his honor, was laid out according to his ideas and plans. Mr. Shaw married Miss Margaret J. Hanna, who was born in Cambria County, Pa., where her father, Thomas Hanna, still resides, being now in his eighty-first year. To Mr. and Mrs. Shaw five children have been born, namely: Byron E., Thomas T., Verus P., Martha I, and LaRue. Mr. and Mrs. Shaw are members of Zion Lutheran Church at Hollidaysburg. In politics he is a Republican and he has frequently been his party's choice for township offices. He has served several terms on the school board of Blair Township, of which he is treasurer, and is serving in his first term as township auditor. He is identified fraternally with Waneta Lodge, No. 1142, Odd Fellows, at Hollidaysburg, and formerly was connected with the Junior Order of American Mechanics, at the same place. He belongs also to Scotch Valley Grange, No. 510, and served one year as secretary of this organization. Like other far seeing and sensible men, Mr. Shaw recognizes the practical benefits that accrue to the farmer through some of the latter-day scientific inventions, and thus he became one of the promoters and is now the president of the Loop Telephone Company, which has proved a profitable investment. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 773. A. F. SHERMAN, a well known dairyman of Allegheny Township, Blair County, Pa., has resided on his present place near Cross Keyes, since 1892, where he has 106 acres devoted to dairy purposes. He was born in Shendoah County, Va., August 23, 1843, and is a son of Levi and Elizabeth (Hollar) Sherman, both natives of Virginia. A. F. Sherman remained in his native county until he was eighteen years of age, after which he traveled in several states and shortly after the close of the Civil War, about 1866-7, he came to Blair County, Pa., where he has resided ever since. He engaged in farming and for twenty years was also connected with brick making, but since 1892 has devoted himself almost exclusively to his dairy interests. Mr. Sherman was married February 6, 1868, to Miss Melinda Piper, who was born in Allegheny Township, Blair County, February 21, 1849, a daughter of Daniel and Catherine (Stiffler) Piper. The father of Mrs. Sherman was born in Maryland and the mother in Bedford County, Pa. After marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Piper settled in Allegheny Township some seventy-five years ago, and died here, and their burial was in the Carson Valley Cemetery, of which Mr. Sherman had been a trustee for several years. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Sherman, namely: William A., who is a merchant at Cross Keyes; Franklin E.; Carrie V., who is the wife of Harvey S. Shaw, of Allegheny Township; and Anna M., who is the wife of Dayton Bowen, of this township. Mr. and Mrs. Sherman are charter members of Allegheny Grange, Patrons of Husbandry, at Duncansville. In politics he is a Democrat. In the accumulation of his property, Mr. Sherman has been greatly assisted by his wife, to whom he gives much credit. They are among the most highly esteemed people of this section. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 667. WILLIAM S. SHIMER, V.S., who is proprietor of a modern, thoroughly equipped veterinary hospital in Altoona, is a man who stands very high in his profession. He has practiced in Altoona for many years and is generally credited with being the best qualified veterinary surgeon in Blair County. He was born at Shimersville, Lehigh County, Pa., April 26, 1865, and is a son of William S. and Hannah S. (Shantz) Shimer. The Shimers have been residents of Pennsylvania since 1740, at which time the paternal great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch settled in Lehigh County, and his name and memory are perpetuated in the town of Shimersville, on the site of which, in early days, lay his pioneer farm. Practically all the members of the family in those days were agriculturists. William S. Shimer was reared on the old homestead. He attended school in Shimersville, and was later a student at that noted Lutheran educational center, Muhlenburg College, at Allentown. On his father's farm he learned much concerning the various ailments of dumb creatures, and when he came to choose a career, he decided to prepare himself for veterinary work. After an exhaustive course of study, he was graduated in 1885 from the Ontario Veterinary College, in the Dominion of Canada. He has since been successfully engaged in the active practice of his profession, and is numbered among its foremost representatives in this section. He has a model infirmary, fitted up with every modern convenience that he has found of practical value, and there gives sick and wounded animals the most careful scientific attention. He has frequent calls to exercise his skill from other counties and at almost all times has valuable animals under treatment from the great stock farms. He belongs to a number of organizations connected with the interests of this branch of medical science. The doctor was reared in the faith of the Evangelical Lutheran church. In politics he is a Republican. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 934-935. HARRY W. SHIREY, M. D., who is engaged in the practice of medicine at Williamsburg, Pa., was born January 17, 1883, at Youngstown, Westmoreland County, Pa., and is a son of C. F. and Sibilla (Bossart) Shirey. C. F. Shirey made farming his life occupation and resided for many years in Unity Township, Westmoreland County, Pa., where he was held in high esteem. He was politically a Democrat and served as auditor and held almost every office in Unity Township. He was a member of the Lutheran church. C. F. and Sibilla Shirey were parents of the following children: Edgar R., who is an attorney of Greensburg, Pa.; Estella, who is the wife of Rev. F. E. Strobel, pastor of the Lutheran Church of Ridgway, Pa.; Charles M., who resides on the home farm; T. Logan, who is a clerk for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company; Harry W., subject of this record; and Frederick, who is attending the Latrobe High School. Dr. Harry W. Shirey was reared in Westmoreland County, Pa., and after a common school education, taught three terms in the schools of Unity Township. He then entered the employ of the Mellon National Bank of Pittsburg, for whom he dealt extensively in real estate, and then entered a medical college at Philadelphia, graduating with the class of 1907. He first embarked in the practice of medicine at Numidia, Columbia County, Pa., and two years later came to Blair County, and located at Williamsburg, where be has now been engaged in practice for one year. In June, 1907, Dr. Shirey married Miss Mabel Lawrence, who is a daughter of Douglas and Catherine (Gault) Lawrence, of Philadelphia, who also have one son, John Ross Lawrence. Dr. and Mrs. Shirey have two children, Mabel Sibilla and Warren Lawrence. Dr. Shirey is fraternally a member of the I. O. O. F., Goodwill Lodge, of Numidia, Pa., and the Heptasophs, at Williamsburg, and a Mason, Portage Lodge, Hollidaysburg. He is a member of the Lutheran church. In politics he is a staunch Democrat. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 925. BENJAMIN F. SHOEMAKER, whose valuable farm of 100 acres, lying in Taylor Township, Blair County, Pa., is devoted to farming and stock raising, is a representative citizen of this section and an honored survivor of the great Civil War. He was born in Somerset County, Pa., September 6, 1843, and is a son of John and Hannah (Severs) Shoemaker, both of whom were born also in Somerset County. Benjamin F. Shoemaker was six years old when his parents moved to Middle Woodbury Township, Bedford County, Pa., and there he grew to manhood and obtained his education in the district schools. In August, 1861, he enlisted for service in the Civil War, entering Co. C, 110th Pa. Vol. Inf., which became a part of the Army of the Potomac, and remained a brave, willing, efficient soldier and brought credit on the Federal blue on many a battlefield before he received his final and honorable discharge, on July 3, 1865. The battle of Winchester, Va., in March, 1862, was the first of a long series of important engagements in which he took part which included: Fort Republic, Cedar Mountain, Second battle of Bull Run, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, the Wilderness, Spottsylvania Court House, Cold Harbor and Petersburg. At the time of the surrender of the Confederate forces at Appomattox, his command was not far distant from the famous meeting place of Generals Grant and Lee. Mr. Shoemaker was promoted to the rank of second sergeant of his company as a reward of faithful service. He is a valued member of Lieut. Lower Post, No. 82, G. A. R., at Roaring Spring, in which he has served as vice commander. After the close of his military service, Mr. Shoemaker returned to Bedford County and remained there until 1871, when he came to Blair County and settled in Taylor Township, and in 1899 came to his present farm, near Ore Hill. Mr. Shoemaker devotes considerable attention to his stock interests, growing a fine grade of cattle and also horses. Mr. Shoemaker has been thrice married. His first wife was Miss Elizabeth Teeter and after her death he married Miss Sarah Bulger, who, at death, was survived by one daughter, Sarah. His third marriage was to Miss Leah Kauffman, who was born in Bedford County, a daughter of the late Michael Kauffman, of Taylor Township, and they have two sons: Warren and Jesse. Mr. and Mrs. Shoemaker are members of the Church of God, at Woodbury, Pa. He is a Republican in his political views but has never accepted any office except that of school director in which he served one term. Mr. Shoemaker is an example of a successful self made man, and he is respected and esteemed by his neighbors and fellow citizens. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 634-635. JOHN HENRY SHOEMAKER, proprietor of Hotel Franklin, is one of the enterprising business men of Gaysport, Pa., and was born October 7, 1874, at Hollidaysburg, Pa., and is a son of Simon and Barbara (Webb) Shoemaker. Andrew Shoemaker, grandfather of our subject, was a native of Germany and one of the pioneer settlers of Blair County, having worked here on the canal previous to the advent of the railroad in this section of the country. Andrew Shoemaker died on his farm in Allegheny Township, Blair County, Pa., at the advanced age of eighty-six years, and was the father of four children: Simon, John, Joseph and Andrew. Simon Shoemaker was born and reared in Hollidaysburg, Pa., and for thirty years ran a dairy wagon to that borough, but is now living in retirement on his farm near Delight Park. Mr. Shoemaker is now sixty-one years of age, is politically a Republican, and is now serving his second term as director of the Poor. He is fraternally a member of the B. P. O. E. Mr. Shoemaker married Barbara Webb, who was born in Chester County, Pa., and to them were born the following children: William, who is deceased; John Henry; Mamie, who married Benjamin C. Wilt; Stella, who is the wife of William Mallagan; and Joseph, Jesse, and Charles. John Henry Shoemaker was reared to man's estate at Hollidaysburg and was educated in the Catholic schools of that borough. He subsequently ran a dairy wagon to Altoona, Pa., for about eight years, then sold his route to Charles Kepple, and purchased his present hotel in Gaysport from George Strout. The Hotel Franklin is a brick building, containing fourteen bedrooms, and is one of the leading $1.00 and $1.50 per day houses of this borough. Mr. Shoemaker was married April 28, 1895, to Fannie McGuire, a daughter of Patrick and Frances (Fagan) McGuire, and of their union two children have been born: Alma, and Margaret. The family holds membership with St. Michael's Catholic Church. Mr. Shoemaker is politically identified with the Republican party. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 497-498. SIMON SHOEMAKER, a well known resident of Allegheny Township, Blair County, Pa., who resides in a comfortable home on the outskirts of Hollidaysburg, was born in Greenfield Township, Blair County, September 14, 1849, and is a son of Andrew and Anna (Keller) Shoemaker. Andrew Shoemaker and wife were both born in Germany, natives of Baden, and in 1848 they came to American and located at what was known as Allegheny Furnace, in Blair County, Pa. The father was a soldier in the Civil War but lived to return, and died in Blair County. Of the children of Andrew and Anna Shoemaker, four sons survive; Simon; John, residing at Tipton, Blair County; Joseph, residing in Allegheny Township; and Andrew, residing in Allegheny County. Simon Shoemaker attended the district schools in his boyhood and the schools of Hollidaysburg. He engaged in farming for a number of years and in 1889 located on his present place. For nearly thirty years he conducted a milk route through Hollidaysburg and had retained some families as customers during the entire period. He sold out his route in 1905 and has lived retired since then. He is a member of the board of directors of the Blair County Home. Mr. Shoemaker married Miss Rachel Webb, a native of Chester County, and a daughter of William Webb, formerly of Hollidaysburg, and six children were born to them: John H., who is proprietor of the Franklin House, at Gaysport, Pa.; Mary, who is the wife of B. C. Wilt, of Hollidaysburg; Stella, who is the wife of William Malligan, of Gaysport; Joseph Irvin, who lives at Hollidaysburg; Jesse R. and Charles C., both of whom live in Blair Township; and William, now deceased, who was formerly proprietor of the Logan House at Hollidaysburg. In politics, Mr. Shoemaker is a Republican. He is a member of the order of Elks, at Altoona, and of the Duncansville Grange, at Duncansville, Pa. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 602. COL. J. BLAIR SHOENFELT, a prominent and successful business man of Muskogee, Oklahoma, where he is extensively interested in the production of oil, is a scion of an old and representative family of Blair County, Pa. Colonel Shoenfelt, as he is familiarly known to his many friends, is a summer resident of Blair County, occupying his estate, which is situated near Roaring Spring. He was born at East Sharpsburg, Blair County, Pa., February 14, 1859, and is a son of George M. and Christiana (Burkett) Shoenfelt. George M. Shoenfelt was born in Taylor Township, Blair County, in 1822, and has always resided there. His father was Jacob Shoenfelt and his grandfather was William Shoenfelt, the latter of whom came as a pioneer to Taylor Township, from Hagerstown, Md. Jacob Shoenfelt, grandfather of Col. Shoenfelt, is remembered as one of the finest specimens of physical manhood ever produced in Blair County. He was noted for his size, his strength and his power of endurance as well as for his sterling qualities of mind and character. His business was farming but in early days he did a large amount of teaming also and transported merchandise from Baltimore to this section and also pig iron from Maria Forge to Pittsburg. George M. Shoenfelt, father of Col. Shoenfelt is now in his eighty-eighth year and still remains hale and hearty. In early manhood he taught school and later made farming his main interest. He has served many years on the township school board and is now its president and in spite of his age takes much interest in its deliberations and his sound advice is followed by his fellow members. He married Christiana Burkett and the names of his surviving sons are as follows: Horace G., of East Sharpsburg; Ethan Allen, of Roaring Spring; J. Blair, of Oklahoma; George, also of Oklahoma; Adam, of Taylor Township, Blair County; Daniel, of Geneva, N. Y.; and Edward, of Taylor Township. J. Blair Shoenfelt was reared on the home farm in Taylor Township and was afforded excellent educational advantages, these including attendance at the Brethren's Normal School at Huntingdon, Pa., and three years as a student at the University of Indiana, where he was graduated in 1880. He had studied law and was admitted to the bar of Indiana, in March of that year, and shortly afterward went to South Dakota, finding what promised to be a good opening in a professional way, at Estelline, in Hamlin County. In November, 1880, he was elected the first county judge of Hamlin County and served on the bench for several years. After South Dakota became a state, he was elected the first circuit judge of the Third Judicial Circuit of South Dakota and served in that position for two years. He continued in the practice of law at Estelline until 1890, when he removed to Douglass, Wyoming, where he also became prominent in his profession and a leader in public affairs. He was elected prosecuting attorney and served through several terms, giving Converse County an honest and progressive administration. While a resident of Wyoming, he was honored by the late President McKinley who appointed him Indian agent, the appointment coming to Col. Shoenfelt without any solicitation on his part. Col. Shoenfelt entered upon the duties of agent for the five civilized Indian tribes of Indian Territory, on June 30, 1899, and served with efficiency until June 30, 1905, when he resigned. When he took charge of the office, two clerks only were employed and as an indication of the activity and business enterprise of the new agent, it may be mentioned that when he retired the departments he had organized required eighty stenographers and about 150 bookkeepers, clerks and other minor officials. The business transacted was vast in extent and volume and never had the Indian affairs of that section been in such complete order. For a number of years he has been prominently identified with the oil industry in Oklahoma and also in valuable mines in Mexico. His business interests are varied and important particularly along these lines. He is a director and a member of the advisory board of the Mid-Continent Life Insurance Company, which has its headquarters at Muskogee, Okla., and he is a director of the Altar Placer Gold Mining Company, which has headquarters at Hermisillo, Mex., of which he is also president. For a number of years Col. Shoenfelt has been interested more or less in military matters. He was colonel of the first regiment of the Wyoming National Guards which was recruited for the Spanish-American War and by order of the adjutant-general went to Cheyenne, Wyo., where it went into camp and was drilled in preparation for active service and was ordered to the front just before the termination of the war. He continued to serve as colonel of this regiment as long as he remained a resident of Wyoming and is affectionately remembered by his old comrades. Colonel Shoenfelt was married in May, 1883, to Miss Anna E. Isenberg, who was born at Alexander, Pa., and is a daughter of J. Miller Isenberg, of Johnstown, Pa. Col. and Mrs. Shoenfelt have three children: Pearl, who is the wife of Dr. C. A. Thompson, of Muskogee; Cecil E., who is general superintendent of the Blair Oil Refining Company located at Muskogee, a very successful young business man; and Doris E., who resides with her parents. During the winter months the family resides at Muskogee, taking a prominent part in the pleasant social life of the place, but when summer comes, the old farm in Taylor Township offers a welcome and attractions that only one's native place can give. During February, March and April of 1910, Col. Shoenfelt and family enjoyed an extended West Indian cruise and visited the Isle of Pines and other points of interest. In political adherence, Col. Shoenfelt is a Republican but in late years has declined all political honors, his extensive business interests absorbing his time and attention to a large degree. He is prominently identified with Masonry and belongs to the minor branches as well as the Commandery at Muskogee and also is connected with the Elks at this point. Col. Shoenfelt has had an interesting career and has done his full share in bringing about the development of sections of the Union which, in his youth, were considered entirely uncivilized. He went into the far West with the training of a collegian, the courage of a brave man and the enterprise which overcomes difficulties. Called upon to assume judicial duties before he had enjoyed any measure of legal experience, he made no mistakes and when he retired from one official position it was but to assume the duties of a still more important one. In South Dakota, Wyoming and Muskogee, Okla., he is looked upon as a foremost citizen but it is when he returns to Blair County that he realizes the pride and affection with which his fellow citizens claim him as one of their own. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 822-824. JOHN K. SHOENFELT, justice of the peace and a leading citizen of Duncansville, Pa., is proprietor and manager of one of the largest industries of the place, the Shoenfelt Marble & Granite Company works, which manufactures and deals in monuments and headstones and does all kinds of cemetery work. Mr. Shoenfelt was born at Woodbury, Bedford County, Pa., January 13, 1852, and is a son of Joseph M. and Nancy (Keagy) Shoenfelt. Joseph M. Shoenfelt and wife were both born in Blair County. The paternal greatgrandfather of John K. Shoenfelt was Jacob Shoenfelt, a native of Germany, who came to what is now Blair County, Pa., in 1730, and settled near what is now Roaring Springs. He reared a family, and of his sons, Jacob Shoenfelt, father of Joseph M., continued to live in the same vicinity, where he owned farm land. When Joseph M. Shoenfelt went into business it was as a miller, and during the larger part of his life he operated the old style water mills with dam, in different parts of Blair and Bedford Counties. John K. Shoenfelt attended school in South Woodbury Township, in Bedford County, and also the Bedford County Normal School, then situated at Bedford, and was graduated from that institution in 1872. For eight consecutive years afterward he taught school, being located in Bedford, Blair and Huntingdon Counties, Pa., and was an interested and successful teacher. In 1882 he came to Duncansville and has resided here continuously ever since. He was one of the promoters of the Duncansville Building and Loan Association, of which he has been president for sixteen consecutive years, and for four years was treasurer of this very prosperous business enterprise. Since 1890 he has been identified with his granite and marble business, one that has been continuously successful, one reason perhaps being found in the motto of the firm: Courteous treatment and careful attention to orders. In politics he is a Republican and for several years he was president of the borough school board. For over a quarter of a century he has served in the office of justice of the peace. Mr. Shoenfelt was married to Miss Jennie Hicks, of Williamsburg, Pa., and they have had eight children, namely: Nannie G., who is the widow of H. T. Boland, of Portage, Pa.; Carrie, who resides at Youngstown, O.; Raymond A. and Lloyd J., both of whom reside at home; Edith, who is the wife of W. V. Webb, of Duncansville; and Emily, Nellie and Charles E., all of whom reside with their parents. Mr. Shoenfelt is one of the representative men of this section of Blair County. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 611-612. R. W. SHOENFELT, owner of a foundry and machine shop at Williamsburg, Pa., was born March 20, 1869, in Blair County, Pa., and is a son of John and Maria (Whittaker) Shoenfelt. John Shoenfelt followed milling during his early life, but later engaged in farming in Blair County. His marriage with Maria Whittaker resulted in the following issue: James; Sarah, who is the wife of H. D. Brumbaugh; Harry; R. W., subject of this record; Ellen; Margaret; Jennie, who is the wife of D. D. Detwiler; Charles; Irwin; Carrie; Homer; Susan; and Elmer, deceased. John Shoenfelt was politically a Republican, and was religiously a member of the Reformed church, his wife being a member of the Progressive Brethren church. R. W. Shoenfelt obtained his educational training in the common schools of the county, then learned pattern making in the shops at Hollidaysburg, Pa., and subsequently followed his trade at various places until 1908. At that time he purchased a foundry and machine shop at Williamsburg from William Leisig. This was shortly afterward destroyed by fire, and replaced by a more modern shop, where Mr. Shoenfelt carries on a general foundry work in connection with the manufacturing of mine car castings. He employs about three men the entire year. On March 6, 1895, Mr. Shoenfelt married Blanch Carney, who is a daughter of Samuel and Charlotte Carney, well known residents of Hollidaysburg. She has four sisters: Anna, Delia, Rebecca, and Irene. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Shoenfelt, namely: Lottie, J. Lee, and Ethel, the last mentioned being now deceased. Mr. Shoenfelt is politically a Republican, and the religious connection of the family is with the Baptist church. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 853. CAPT. JAMES S. SHOLLAR, who served with credit in the Civil War, is now living in retirement at Williamsburg, Pa., where for many years he followed carpentering and contracting, and has been a resident of this borough since 1857. He was born April 11, 1842, in Blair County; Pa., and is a son of Jacob N. and Julia (White) Shollar. The father was a native of Lancaster County, Pa., and the mother of Huntingdon County. He was the youngest of six children born to his parents, namely; Christopher, Margaret, Martin, Nancy, Thomas and James S. James S. Shollar was educated in the common schools of the county and then learned the carpenter's trade, which he has followed in connection with contracting ever since. At the beginning of the Civil War he enlisted for three months' service with the 3rd Pa., Vol. Inf., then enlisted for nine months with the 125th Infantry, and his third enlistment was with the 208th Pa. Inf., being advanced from the ranks to the captaincy of his company and serving in that capacity one year. He is politically identified with the Republican party and has served three years in the town council. He is a member of the G. A. R. Post No. 474 of Williamsburg. Religiously he is a member of the Presbyterian church. On December 27, 1863, Capt. Shollar married Miss Isabel Cooper, a daughter of Samuel Cooper, who was a carpenter by trade and a well known resident of Williamsburg. She is one of the following children born to her parents: James; Isabel; Louis; Thaddeus, who died during the Civil War; Samuel and Harry. Mr. and Mrs. Shollar have reared the following children: Guy, who is engaged in carpentering at Altoona; Juniata, who is the wife of Aaron Snyder; Archie and Charles, twins; Frederick, who is an architect at Altoona; and Bessie, who is the wife of Floyd Koble. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 627. DAVID L. SHOWALTER, who is one of Taylor Township's most substantial citizens, renting the farm of 175 acres which belongs to Mr. Snowberger, and owning a farm of 134 acres, which is located near the borough of Roaring Spring, has made a specialty of the dairy industry since 1892, when he came to the first named property. He was born in Huston Township, Blair County, Pa., in October, 1854, and is a son of Joseph and Mary (Lynn) Showalter. Joseph Showalter was born in Huston Township, Blair County where his father and mother had founded the family home after their marriage. His mother was a native of Germany. He passed his life in Huston Township and was a farmer all his days. His death occurred many years ago. He married Mary Lynn, who was also born in Blair County, and of their children the following survive: Susan, who is the wife of Samuel Frederick, of Bedford County; Jacob, who resides in North Woodbury Township; Felix, who lives in Huston Township; David L., who is a resident of Taylor Township; Mary, who is the wife of John Smith, of Taylor Township; and Adam, who lives in Blair Township. David L. Showalter was reared in Huston Township and attended the neighborhood schools through boyhood and then turned his attention to practical farming. In 1892 he removed from Huston Township to Taylor Township and here has built up a large dairy business and has fitted out his farm with commodious buildings especially adapted to this enterprise. He keeps about twenty-eight milk cows of the Durham, Jersey, Swiss and Holstein breeds and carries on his operations according to modern methods. He operates a milk route through Roaring Spring. Mr. Showalter married Miss Mary C. Sorick, who was born in Blair County, a daughter of the late Adam Sorick, of Huston Township, and they have had seven children, namely: Ida M., who is the wife of Walter Eastep; Elmer; Ezra; Harry; Adam; Roy, who is deceased; and Andrew. Mr. Showalter and family are members of the Reformed church at Roaring Spring. He is a politician just to the extent of good citizenship and casts his vote with the Republican party. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 802-803. SAMUEL M. SHRIVER, a prominent and respected citizen of North Woodbury Township, Blair County, Pa., residing on his finely cultivated farm of ninety-one acres, is a native of this township born here December 29, 1844, and is a son of Samuel and Nancy (Metzker) Shriver. The father of Mr. Shriver was born in Adams County, Pa., where he remained until he was fourteen years of age. The death of his father at that time made it necessary for him to provide for his own support and he came to what is now Morrison's Cove, in Blair County, and started to learn the carpenter trade. After completing his apprenticeship he worked at his trade for many years at Martinsburg and became one of the borough's best known men and here his death occurred in the spring of 1880, when he was in his eighty-third year. He was a man with strong convictions of right and was not afraid to make them known even when they were generally unpopular. He was identified with the Republican party. In 1836 he united with the Lutheran church. Although he never sought public office he was frequently made a school director and also served as a director of the Blair County Infirmary. He married Nancy Metzker, who was born in Blair County and died in 1885. Of their children four survive, namely: Elizabeth, who is the widow of Jonathan Hoover, and lives in North Woodbury Township; Isaac M., who resides at Curryville; Christiana, who is the wife of Abraham Kauffman, of North Woodbury Township; and Samuel M. Samuel M. Shriver grew to man's estate in North Woodbury Township and attended the country schools through boyhood, making such good use of his opportunities that he taught three winter terms of school to the satisfaction of the school directors. He carries on general farming, not entirely in the old way, for he is a very intelligent and well informed agriculturist and formerly was one of the active members of the Grange, Patrons of Husbandry, at Curryville. In these days the children have the best of school advantages and it is because wise, broad-minded and intelligent men like Mr. Shriver consent to serve on the school board. He has served three years in North Woodbury Township, being president of the board for one year and also serving as its secretary. On October 22, 1876, Mr. Shriver was married to Miss Mary A. Diehl, who was born in North Woodbury Township, August 27, 1853, a daughter of Daniel M. and Elizabeth (Zook) Diehl. Her father was born in York County, a son of John Diehl, an early settler in Bedford County, and her mother was born in Blair County, a daughter of Jacob Zook, who built one of the first houses at Morrison's Cove. Mr. and Mrs. Shriver have had two children, Daniel T. and Mary, B., the latter of whom is now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Shriver are members of the Church of the Brethren. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 595-596. JOHN A. SHULTZ, manager of one of Roaring Spring's important industries, The Planing Mill Company, contractors and builders, manufacturers of lumber and mill work, coal, builders' supplies, hardware and plumbing, has filled this responsible position since 1906 and is an experienced man in this line. He was born in Huntingdon County, Pa., February 20, 1859, and is a son of Benjamin F. Shultz. His parents were natives also of Huntingdon County and both are deceased. John A. Shultz grew to manhood in his native place and there attended school and remained on the home farm until he reached his majority. In the following year he started to learn the carpenter trade at Martinsburg, having some mechanical ability, and served through an apprenticeship of three years. Later, after a full measure of experience, he began building and contracting for himself at Martinsburg and continued in business there for twenty years. His high standing as a business man, in large measure, was the reason of his being called to Roaring Spring to become manager of this planing mill plant and he has justified all expectations. The Planing Mill Company is comprised of the following men of capital: D. M. Bare, Dr. A. L. Garver and Lewis F. Garber, it being a Roaring Spring enterprise entirely. It is numbered with the most prosperous industries of its kind in Blair County. Mr. Shultz has charge of thirty employes. He has always been an interested citizen wherever he has lived and has been recognized as such. For three years he was a member of the Martinsburg city council and for six years a member of the school board there. His political affiliation is with the Republican party. Mr. Shultz was married to Miss Annie Wolfkill, who was born in Huntingdon County, Pa., a daughter of the late Henry Wolfkill. They have two daughters: Ellen E. and Laura M., the latter of whom is the wife of M. R. Keagy, of Roaring Spring. Mr. Shultz and family are members of the Church of God, in which he is a deacon. He is an enterprising and successful man and is one who has made his own way in the world, setting an example of industry and perseverance that might be profitably followed by those finding themselves in the same circumstances in their youth. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 497. LOUIS SIGRIST, one of Altoona's best known German-American citizens, and proprietor of the Sixth Ward Hotel, situated at Nos. 714-16 Seventeenth Street, Altoona, was born in Germany, August 24, 1865, the second in a family of four children born to Morris and Elizabeth Sigrist, who never came to America. When fifteen years of age, Mr. Sigrist crossed the Atlantic Ocean to the United States and came immediately to Altoona, and this city has continued to be his home. During the larger part of his business life he bas been connected in some capacity with the hotel business and thoroughly understands it. For two years prior to coming to the Sixth Ward Hotel, he managed the Union Exchange Hotel and came from there to his present property in 1907. He has a commodious and well-kept-up building, with twelve sleeping rooms and all modern conveniences. The Germans have an established reputation for fine cooking and Mr. Sigrist gives his guests the best that is on the market. Mr. Sigrist married Miss Elizabeth Crum, a daughter of Casper Crum, of Hollidaysburg, and they have the following children: Marie, Margaret, Anna, Louis, Jr., Joseph, Agnes and George. Marie is the wife of Rudolph Ernest and they have one daughter, Marie. Mr. Sigrist and family attend the Roman Catholic church. In politics he is a Republican and fraternally he is identified with the order of Eagles. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 636-639. EUGENE A. SIPES, justice of the peace at Martinsburg, Pa., is also a representative business man of the borough, being a member of the firm of Sipes Bros., proprietor of the Sipes' Monumental Works, a large business enterprise here. He was born at Martinsburg, September 24, 1872, a son of Uriah and Rebecca A. (Williams) Sipes. Uriah Sipes was born in Fulton County, Pa., a son of Emanuel Sipes, who resided at Sipes' Mills, Fulton County. When Uriah Sipes reached manhood he went to Williamsburg and there learned the marble cutting trade and while there married Rebecca Williams of that place. Several years later he moved to Hollidaysburg and some years afterward, to Martinsburg, and early in the fifties engaged in the monument business in which he continued until he retired, when he was succeeded by his two sons, Robert H. and Eugene A. Uriah Sipes was a man of excellent business faculty and was also a valued citizen, a Democrat in politics and for a number of years a justice of the peace. His death occurred April 1, 1907, his widow surviving until April 25, 1910. Eugene A. Sipes was reared and educated at Martinsburg and after leaving school entered his father's shop and learned the monument making business. When the father retired, with his brother he succeeded to a business which has been continuously carried on for over sixty years. All through Blair County may be found beautiful and appropriate specimens of the work done by this firm, both its age and reliability bringing custom. Mr. Sipes married Miss Justina Zook, a daughter of Frederick A. Zook, residing on Yellow Creek, in Bedford County, and they have one son, Clifford E. Mr. and Mrs. Sipes are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In his political views he is a Democrat. In February, 1907, he was elected a justice of the peace, for a term of five years, assuming his duties in May, following, and has proved an admirable and satisfying public official. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 537-538. ISAAC SLIPPEY, the owner of 116 acres of valuable farm land situated in Frankstown Township, Blair County, Pa., was born in this township, February 19, 1854, and is a son of Joseph and Nancy (Shade) Slippey. The father was a millwright. Both he and wife are now deceased. They were worthy people in every way, good neighbors and good examples and were members of the Lutheran church. Their burial was in the Geeseytown Cemetery. Their children were: William A., Clarence, Isaac, Catherine and Blair. Catherine, who is deceased, was the wife of William Ritz. Isaac Slippey attended the country schools with his sister and brothers and afterward worked for a time on a farm but subsequently learned the carpenter trade which he continued to follow for some thirty years. For twenty-six years of this time he was employed in the car shops in Altoona. In 1902 he purchased his farm from the other Slippey heirs and has carried on a general farming line ever since and has had no reason to regret his change of occupation and environment. In 1889, Mr. Slippey was married to Miss Mary Blanche Crawford, a daughter of Henry and Mary Crawford, both of whom are deceased. Mr. Crawford was a carpenter. The parents of Mrs. Slippey had the following children: Jane, who married Michael Geesey; Sarah, who married John Robinson; Mary Blanche, who is Mrs. Slippey; George; Ellen, who is deceased; Addie, who married Harry Harpster; and Lilly. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Slippey - Edward, Walter and Mary, and all remained at home until April, 1910, when Edward joined the U. S. Navy and will probably see many parts of the world before he returns again to the home roof. Mr. Slippey is a Republican in his political views. With his wife he belongs to the Lutheran church. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 747. JOSEPH BLAIR SLIPPEY, a well known farmer of Frankstown Township, Blair County, Pa., who resides on and operates a farm of fifty-two acres, was born in this township, October 24, 1859, and is a son of Joseph and Nancy (Shade) Slippey, members of old township families. They had five children: William, Clarence, Isaac, Catherine and Joseph Blair. Catherine married William Ritz. Joseph Blair Slippey attended the township schools in boyhood. His whole subsequent life has been devoted to farm pursuits. He rents his present farm from Samuel Rhodus and through his careful methods makes it a very productive property. Mr. Slippey was married in September, 1886, to Miss Ella McKindry, a daughter of Joseph and Susan (Scott) McKindry. They are among the old settlers of the township. Mrs. Slippey is the youngest of their children, the others being: Thomas, Mary, Alexander, Catherine, William, Jennie and Warren. To Mr. and Mrs. Slippey seven children have been born, namely: Chester, Irvin, Roy, Mabel, Clair, Ernest and Lola. Mr. Slippey and family belong to the Lutheran church. He is a Republican in politics and has served as township supervisor. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 533. J. B. SMALL, who, with Frank Meintel, is the owner of the Hotel Antler, at Gaysport, Pa., was born October 15, 1865, at Mont Alta, Franklin County, Pa., and is a son of H. Matthew and Annie E. Small, the latter of whom died May 21, 1909. H. Matthew Small is a native of Franklin County, Pa., and is now a resident of Mont Alta, Pa., where for the past thirty years he has been serving as a justice of the peace. He also deals extensively in flour, feed, implements, etc. In politics he is identified with the Democratic party. Mr. Small is the father of the following children: John Benton, who is the subject of this record; A. Dickson, who is employed by the Western Paper Box Manufacturing Company; Agnes, who is the wife of J. B. Smith, who is a merchant; Romane, who is a resident of Mont Alta, Pa.; Laura M.; Charles W., who is engaged in the livery business at Mont Alta; and Robert, who is a blacksmith. John Benton Small was reared in Mont Alta and obtained his education in the schools of that borough, and the Chambersburg Academy, and the Cumberland Valley Normal, and is also a graduate of the Central State Normal, at Lock Haven, Pa. He was president of his class during the term 1888-1889, and after completing his education taught seven years in Franklin County. He was then employed for a short time as a bookkeeper for C. A. Mitchell, a produce dealer at Johnston, Pa., and for years afterward was proprietor of the Mansion House, at Johnstown. Later he removed to Altoona, Pa., where he was employed by Andrew Engle for two years. In 1902 he came to Hollidaysburg and leased the old Kellerman House for five years, and in 1906, in partnership with Mr. Meintel, built the Hotel Antler, which is a brick structure containing twenty bed rooms, and has operated same since its completion as a $1.25-day house. On October 12, 1893, Mr. Small was united in marriage with Agnes B. Pousse, who was born in Saxony, Germany, and at the age of thirteen years came to this country with her parents. Of their union have been born the following children: Phyllis, Una, Edith, and Karl M. Mr. Small has been a lifelong Democrat and is now serving his ninth year as a member of the school board of Gaysport, and also is a justice of the peace. He was a candidate on the Democratic ticket, in 1910, for the state legislature from the Second District. Mr. Small is fraternally a member of the K. of P., Logan Lodge, of Altoona, also of the Red Men and F. O. E., of Altoona, and is a member of the United Brethren church. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 584. RAYMOND FRED SMELTZER, one of the leading druggists and enterprising business men of Williamsburg, Pa., was born May 12, 1883 at Altoona, Pa., and is a son of Ferdinand and Anna L. (McConnell) Smeltzer, and a grandson of Peter Smeltzer. Ferdinand Smeltzer came to Blair county from Cambria County, Pa., and located at Altoona, where he is now engaged in shoemaking, but was formerly an employee of the Pennsylvania railroad for many years. His religious connection is with the Catholic Church, and he is politically identified with the Democratic party. His union with Anna L. McConnell resulted in the following issue: Charles, Anna, Mary, Edward, Joseph, Catherine, and Raymond F., our subject. Raymond F. Smeltzer spent his boyhood in Altoona, and was educated at the St. John Parochial School and the High School of this city. He also studied pharmacy in Altoona, and was first employed in the A. F. Shomberg drug store. He passed the examination at Williamsburg and also passed as a registered druggist at Pittsburg, and in 1904 embarked in the drug business at Williamsburg, where he has since been continuously and successfully engaged in that business. Mr. Smeltzer is politically a Republican, and is fraternally a member of the M. W. of A. of Williamsburg. His religious connection is with the Catholic Church. In May, 1905, Mr. Smeltzer was united in marriage with Eva M. Brookbank, whose parents had the following children: Clemmentine, who is the wife of William Lingenfelter of South Fork; Ernest; Lila, who is a nurse at the Morristown State Hospital; and Eva M. Mr. and Mrs. Smeltzer have two sons; Raymond Frederick, Jr., and Sterling Brockbank. The religious connection of the family is with the Catholic Church. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 867-868. A. B. SMITH, D. O., who has been successfully engaged in the practice of osteopathy and neurology at Altoona, Pa., for the past three years, is a native of New York State, where he was reared to maturity. He obtained his elementary schooling at Ithaca, N. Y., and in 1904 was graduated from the McCormack Neurological College at Chicago, being subsequently engaged in neurological practice in New York state for about a year. He then took a course in the Union College of Osteopathy at Wheeling, W. Va., and after his graduation therefrom practiced osteopathy for one year in Wheeling, subsequently or about 1906 -coming to Altoona, Pa., where he has since been successfully engaged in the practice of osteopathy and neurology. The science of osteopathy was founded on the philosophy that disease was caused by the incoordination of the system in some or all of its parts, wherein the muscles, tendons, ligaments or bones were out of alignment, exerting undue pressure upon the nervous system and the fluid-carrying vessels, thus causing inharmony in the body. The treatment by osteopathy consists of a series of physical manipulations designed to restore harmony throughout the body without the use of drugs; and this system of treatment has been found adequate in the cure of disease. Dr. Smith is also a member of the Association of Independent Doctors of Chicago, and in addition to his practice is interested in sundry flourishing business enterprises. He is a member of the Masonic order, and his religious affiliations are with the Methodist Episcopal church. He has proved himself an active and useful member of the community with which he has cast his lot and has won the regard of his fellow citizens with whom he has come into contact. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 729. ELI D. SMITH, one of Huston Township's prominent and reliable men, who is now filling the office of township assessor, to which he was elected on the Democratic ticket, was born May 2, 1857, on the farm of 200 acres which he owns and resides on, this being one of the old and valuable properties of Huston Township, Blair County, Pa. His parents were Jacob B. and Susan (Dilling) Smith. Jacob B. Smith was a lifelong resident of Huston Township. His father, John Smith, came very early to this section, settling on the farm which has descended from father to son for several generations. Jacob B. Smith followed agricultural pursuits. He was a Democrat in politics and at times served in township offices but he was a quiet, home-loving man and found his greatest happiness in attending to his daily duties and providing for the comfort of his family. He married Susan Dilling, who was also a native of Huston Township, and of their children the following survive: David D., Jacob D. and Eli D., all residing in Huston Township; Henry, residing at Martinsburg; John D., living in Huston Township; and Elizabeth D., wife of Aaron B. Mock, of Martinsburg. Jacob B. Smith and wife were members of the Church of the Brethren. Eli D. Smith was reared on his present farm and since boyhood has taken part in its cultivation. This large estate is known as Smithfield Farm and he devotes it to general farming and stock-raising. Mr. Smith was educated in the public schools of Huston Township, and like his late father has always taken a deep interest in them. He has served in many public offices and for six years was tax collector of the township, is serving in his second term as assessor, has also been auditor and judge of elections and for seven years was a justice of the peace. This prominence speaks for itself as a proof of the confidence in which he is held by his fellow citizens. Mr. Smith was married to Miss Sallie Likens, who was born at Mine, Huston Township, a daughter of Isaac Likens, a well known citizen in former days. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have thirteen children, namely: Clarence L. and Eldie L., who live in Huston Township; Mary L., who is the wife of Samuel Brumbaugh, of Huston Township; Lucy, who is the wife of Sanford Rhodes, of Huston Township; and Allen, Heaster, Minnie, Olney, Aman, Denver, Beulah, Gertrude and Robert. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 547-548. FOREST VAN SMITH, who conducts an automobile garage and a repair shop for all kinds of machinery, at Tyrone, Pa., has been a resident of this borough since December 4, 1900, and has built up a fine business. He was born June 1, 1875, at Mountaindale, Cambria County, Pa., and is a son of Marion G. and Sarah E. (Ross) Smith. Marion G. Smith, who died in 1890, was filling the position of yard foreman for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, at Bellwood. He married Sarah E. Ross, who survives, with three sons and one daughter, namely: Forest Van; George E., of Tyrone; Wellington, employed in the shops of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, at Eldorado; Bertha May, wife of Alfred Peterman, an engineer on the P. & N. W. Railroad. Three sons and three daughters of the late Marion G. Smith are deceased. Forest Van Smith accompanied his parents to Blair County in 1885. He attended school at Bellwood until he was old enough to enter the shops of the Bellwood Electric Company and he was employed there when the first trucks for the Altoona trolley line were built, in 1891. He worked in these shops for three and one-half years and then went for five more years with the P. & N. W. Railroad shops, when he accepted a position on the W. Va. Central Railroad, at Elkins, W. Va. In December, 1900, he came to Tyrone and entered the Tyrone Foundry and Machine Company shops, where he remained until December, 1909, when he embarked in business for himself, under the name of the Keystone Motor Car Company. He has a large equipment of motor cars for rent and does all kinds of repairing of machinery and deals also in automobile supplies. As yet, Mr. Smith has a pretty clear field in his line and is so thoroughly competent that there is every probability that he will continue his leadership. In 1898 Mr. Smith was married to Miss Elizabeth Lovengood, a daughter of Dr. W. Y. Lovengood, of Bellwood, and they have three children: Marion Elizabeth, Harriet and Walter Van. Mr. Smith and family attend the Methodist Episcopal church. In politics he is a Republican. Fraternally he is identified with the Knights of Pythias and with the Heptasophs, both of Altoona. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 930. GEORGE W. SMITH, M. D., deceased, for many years occupied a prominent position in the medical fraternity at Hollidaysburg, and stood high in the affections of the people who had benefited through his care and skill and whose hours of pain and sickness had been cheered and alleviated by his helpful and genial presence. Dr. Smith was graduated in 1862 from the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania and in the same year located at Hollidaysburg, which place continued to be his home through the succeeding years of his busy and useful life. He identified himself with the leading medical organizations, including the Blair County Medical Society, the American Medical Association, and the Academy of Medicine and Surgery at Altoona. His ability, learning, and professional enthusiasm brought him frequent and public recognition, and his name was closely associated with the progress of medical science, particularly in western Pennsylvania. He was a prominent Free Mason, having been identified with the fraternity from early manhood. During the Civil War he served as assistant surgeon of the 54th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry for one year, being then appointed a member of the U. S. Board of Examining Surgeons at Altoona, Pa. He attended to the duties of this office without changing his place of residence. Dr. Smith was married first to Miss Elizabeth T. McCune, who died in 1871, survived by four children: Ida, Mac, George, and Lillian. In 1874, Dr. Smith was married to Miss Eliza B. Calvin, who survives him. She is a daughter of the late Hon. Samuel Calvin. To this marriage three children were born, namely: Rebecca, whose death occurred May 19, 1909, and who was the wife of Albert C. Steck, a prominent attorney of Ottumwa, Iowa; Mary, the wife of Frank McFarland, who is in the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at Hollidaysburg; and Samuel Calvin, who is a very prominent physician of Hollidaysburg, with a residence and office on Allegheny Street. Dr. Samuel C. Smith is a graduate of Bucknell University and of Jefferson Medical College, taking honors at the latter institution. He married Miss Louise Warriner, the daughter of Rev. E. A. Warriner, for forty years rector of the Episcopal church at Montrose, Pa. Mrs. George W. Smith resides in a beautiful home at No. 208 Allegheny Street, Hollidaysburg. She is a lady who has many friends among the best society of the place. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 791. GUY H. SMITH, a progressive and successful farmer of Frankstown Township, Blair County, Pa., who is the competent manager of all of the home farm of 250 acres which is tillable, was born on this place, January 10, 1871, and is a son of William C. and Angeline (McKenzie) Smith. William C. Smith, who is one of Frankstown's substantial men, owns 577 acres of valuable land in this township, of which he is a native, born here in September, 1846. His parents were Samuel and Elizabeth (Brotherlin) Smith, the former of whom was born in Frankstown Township in 1817. Samuel Smith was a farmer all his life and was one of the reliable and responsible men of his day and was made financial agent for the Government in handling funds in relation to drafted men during the Civil War. He was a staunch Presbyterian and a liberal member of the church. The Smith family came originally from Scotland and in the person of James Smith, settled in Blair County in 1787. William C. Smith attended the district schools and spent one term at Juniata Academy, and then turned his attention to farming and became interested also in the sawmill industry. Industry and good judgment have been elements in bringing about his financial independence, while honesty and probity have made him a citizen worthy of the high esteem in which he is held by his fellow citizens. Like his father and grandfather, he is a member of the Presbyterian church. In 1869 he married Angeline, a daughter of Hamilton and Angeline McKenzie, who came from Beaver County, Pa., to Blair County, in 1865. Mr. and Mrs. McKenzie had the following children: Cornelia, who is the widow of Thomas Jackson; Margaret. who is the wife of W. J. Moore; Anna, deceased, who was the wife of William Wilson; Alvin and Thomas, both of whom are deceased; Emeline, who is the widow of M. M. More; James, and Angeline, who is Mrs. Smith. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have two sons: Guy H., and Samuel Chester, both being farmers. Guy H. Smith was educated in the public schools and at Dickinson Seminary, at Williamsport, Pa., for one term, after which he went into the grocery business at Altoona, where he continued for six years. He then became interested with his father in buying timber and manufacturing lumber, sawing for the railroads. In 1907 he took upon himself his present responsibilities and since then has confined himself closely to agricultural activities. On September 18, 1901, Mr. Smith was married to Susan Olive Stewart, who is a daughter of Angus and Ruth (Robinson) Stewart, and they have one son, William Stewart. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the Presbyterian church at Hollidaysburg. In politics he is a Republican. He served two terms acceptably to his fellow citizens in the office of tax collector and one term in that of mercantile appraiser. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 847-848. JACOB D. SMITH, one of Huston Township's well known citizens and substantial and practical farmers, owns 125 acres of valuable land which he devotes to general agriculture. He was born in Huston Township, Blair County, Pa., February 11, 1842, and is a son of Jacob B. and Susan (Dilling) Smith. Jacob B. Smith and wife were both born in Huston Township, the Smith and Dilling families being old and honorable ones here for several generations. Jacob B. Smith was a son of John and Christena (Brumbaugh) Smith, also of Huston Township. His business was farming and stockraising and with industry and prudence he became the owner of six ordinary farms. He was much respected by his fellow citizens and they elected him to township offices on many occasions. Jacob D. Smith was reared in Huston Township and attended the country schools. He has devoted himself to agricultural pursuits for many years but in early manhood he worked for a time in a rolling-mill at Pittsburg. In politics, like his late father, he is a Democrat, but he is not a politician nor a seeker for office. During his life since boyhood he has seen marked changes take place in Huston Township and some of the old families have entirely disappeared and their farms are owned by later settlers. Mr. Smith is hospitable and a visit to his well cultivated farm and a view of his fine stock are enjoyable experiences. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 774-775. JAMES W. SMITH, a member of the borough council of Roaring Spring, Pa., and a leading citizen of the place, being interested in a number of its foremost industries, is superintendent of the Roaring Spring Blank Book Company plant. He was born in Huston Township, Blair County, Pa., December 30, 1870, and is a son of George D. Smith, who was a substantial farmer of Huston Township for many years, and a prominent citizen in his community, serving on the school board and active in township affairs. When he died a few years ago his fellow citizens mourned the loss of a worthy man. James W. Smith remained on the home farm until he was sixteen years of age and attended the public schools of Huston Township. He came then to Roaring Spring and entered the employ of the Roaring Spring Blank Book Company, and has been identified with this concern ever since. He is interested in the same as a stockholder and has a practical, working knowledge of every department, having won promotion from the bottom until he has become superintendent of the whole plant. Mr. Smith is one of the borough's most interested and public spirited citizens. For three years he served as auditor and in the spring of 1910 was elected a member of the borough council, in which body his advice and business judgment prove very valuable. In politics he is a Republican, but has independent proclivities. Mr. Smith married Miss Eliza Garver, a daughter of Samuel Garver, of Roaring Spring, and they have had four children, two of whom, James R. and Mary E., are living, while twin sons are deceased. They were the eldest born and were named Arthur and Samuel. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Roaring Spring, and he is serving as a trustee of the same. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 707. THADDEUS W. SMITH, a leading citizen and president of the board of auditors of Taylor Township, Blair County, Pa., was born in this township, October 5, 1860, and is a son of Andrew and Emma (Wilderson) Smith, who are aged and highly respected residents. Andrew Smith was born in Huston Township, Blair County, and is now in his eighty-sixth year. When he was thirteen years of age his parents moved into Taylor Township and he has resided here ever since, engaging in farming during his active years. He married Emma Wilderson, who was born in 1834, in Franklin County, Pa., and still is active in mind and body. Thaddeus W. Smith was reared on a farm and has been more or less connected with farm life ever since. For twelve years he was employed in the railroad shops of the Pennsylvania system, at Altoona. He has always taken much interest in public matters, believing that the general welfare depends to a large degree on people being well informed as to the duties of citizenship and willing to assume responsibilities when called on to do so. He is a Republican in political sentiment and has been elected to numerous township offices, serving two terms as road supervisor and also as auditor. He is recognized as one of the township's most progressive and well meaning men. On February 16, 1888, Mr. Smith was married to Miss Susan R. Snowberger, a daughter of John B. Snowberger, of Taylor Township. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the Lutheran church. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 813. DANIEL AND SAMUEL SNIVELY, progressive farmers and enterprising citizens of Woodbury Township, Blair County, Pa., reside on a tract of ninety-one acres, and were born on this farm, which they own in partnership, and are sons of Christian and Barbara (Bayer) Snively. Christian Snively was a farmer by occupation and was a native of Blair County, Pa., having been born on the farm above mentioned. His wife was a native of Washington County, Md. After the Civil War he became identified with the Republican party. The religious convictions of the family was with the River Brethren church. Seven children were born to Christian and Barbara Snively: Benjamin; Daniel; Samuel; Mary A., who is the wife of Samuel Sparr; George A., who lives at Denver, Col.; Elizabeth; and Susan; who, died, aged seventeen years. Daniel Snively was born January 16, 1846, and Samuel Snively was born December 25, 1847. Both were educated in the district schools of Woodbury Township. In the fall of 1864, when eighteen years of age, Daniel enlisted in Co. B, 208th Pa. Inf., and served until the close of the war, and then returned to the farm and has followed farming here ever since, he and Samuel having purchased the home farm from the other heirs of the estate. Both Samuel and Daniel Snively are Republicans in politics, the latter having served as supervisor of this township. Daniel is a member of the G. A. R., Post Robert M. Johnston No. 464, of Williamsburg, and is also a member of the Grange. In 1870 Daniel Snively married Mary A. Sorrick, a daughter of George and Nancy (Cromer) Sorrick, who were among the early settlers of Blair County, the family having been established here more than 100 years ago, and is one of the following children born to her parents: J. C.; A. C.; Sarah J., who is the wife of William Richardson; Alice, who married E. H. Rhule; and Mary (Mrs. Snively). Mr. and Mrs. Snively reared the following children: Orville C., Austin C., Herman and Lula F., who married Elmer Treese, and has one son, Lester. Mrs. Snively died September 20, 1899. The family attends the Lutheran church. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 681-682. JOSEPH B. SNIVELY, proprietor of one of the leading furniture and undertaking establishments of Williamsburg, Pa., is also a stockholder and director of the Farmers' and Merchants' Bank of this borough, and comes of one of the old established families of the county. He was born August 16, 1849, in Blair County, Pa., and is a son of David and Hannah (Bayer) Snively, who were also natives of Blair County. The family originally came from Germany and was established in Blair County more than one hundred years ago, the old homestead, which has been in the family for 115 years, having been purchased from a Capt. Phillips. David Snively was a son of Jacob Snively, and was a farmer and miller all his life. He was politically an adherent of the Republican party. He and wife were members of the River Brethren church. Of his union with Hannah Bayer were born the following children: Susan, deceased; Joseph B.; Elizabeth, wife of William Lower; Sarah, deceased; Barbara; George; Jacob, deceased; Hiram, deceased; Catherine, wife of Walter Worley; and Myra, who is the wife of George Batzell. Joseph B. Snively was reared to manhood and educated in the county, and became a miller by trade, having followed that business for a number of years. Since June 14, 1898, he has been proprietor of his present furniture and undertaking establishment, which occupies three ground floors and two rooms upstairs. In March, 1868, Mr. Snively was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Henderson, a daughter of George and Jane (Roller) Henderson, who were well known farmers of Blair County, and of their union were born the following children: David R.; Cora; Howard O.; Gertrude, who is the wife of Anderson Fay; Frank Melvin; and Daisy. Mr. Snively is politically a Republican and has served one terns on the town council, and one term as supervisor. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 845-846. FRED S. SNOBERGER, one of the best known citizens of Blair Township, Blair County, Pa., who has served in the office of tax collector for twenty years, settled on his present farm of forty acres in 1890 and devotes it to general farming. He was born in Taylor Township, Blair County, September 20, 1855, and is a son of John M. and Rebecca (Shiffler) Snoberger. John M. Snoberger was born in Taylor Township and spent practically all his life in Blair County, where his father, Frederick Snoberger, was a very early settler. John M. Snoberger died March 1, 1905. He was a Republican in politics and was held in general esteem by his fellow citizens, who elected him road supervisor for a number of years. He married Rebecca Shiffler, who was also born in Blair County, and of their family of children, the following survive: Fred S.; Abraham L., who lives near Williamsburg, Pa.; William, who lives at Lakemont, Pa.; Andrew, who lives at Altoona; Davalt; Elizabeth, who is the wife of Thomas Whalen, of Blair Township; Susan, who is the wife of Joseph Green, of McKees, Pa.; Barbara, who is the wife of Charles Baker, of Taylor Township; Rachel, who is the wife of David Eversole, of Taylor Township. Fred S. Snoberger grew to manhood in Taylor Township and obtained his education there. He was married on February 19, 1880, to Miss Maria L. Weaver, who was born in Blair Township, a daughter of George and Grace (Ingram) Weaver, the former of whom is deceased. The mother of Mrs. Snoberger was born in Chester County, Pa., but has spent the larger part of her life in Blair County. Mr. and Mrs. Snoberger have had three children: Mary G., Olive R. and Angus, the last named being now deceased. They are members of the Presbyterian church at Hollidaysburg. In politics he is a Republican. He served three years as supervisor of Blair Township and frequently as school director beside his long period of continuous service as tax collector. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 743. THEODORE D. SNOEBERGER, of the firm of Gorsuch & Snoeberger, at Martinsburg, Pa., founders and machinists, manufacturers of all kinds of castings, farm implements, etc., and dealers in pumps and fixtures, iron pipe, fittings, valves, engine and cylinder oils, making a specialty of heating and plumbing, is one of the representative business men of this place. He was born in Taylor Township, Blair County, Pa., December 11, 1842, and is a son of Joseph and Hannah (Deeter) Snoeberger. The former was a native of Bedford County and the latter of Blair County. Theodore D. Snoeberger is a true example of a self-made man. He was only four years old when his father died and when nine years of age he left the shelter which had been his home and went to earn his own living. Farmers in the neighborhood were glad to have the services of a bright and willing lad in return for board and clothes, and so capable did he prove himself that by the time he was twelve years of age he was able to secure wages, which he in large part devoted to taking care of his mother whom he provided for thenceforward until her death in the nineties. He has one surviving brother, Daniel T., who is also a resident of Martinsburg. When he was twenty-one years old, Mr. Snoeberger started to learn the carpenter trade and served an apprenticeship of three years and for a long time afterward worked as a carpenter and developed into a builder and contractor. Later he became interested in the foundry and machine business and has worked alone and also with partners, at Martinsburg, since 1874. The present firm of Gorsuch & Snoeberger was organized in June, 1909. A large amount of business is done by this firm in their various lines. Mr. Snoeberger is so well and favorably known to his fellow citizens that many large contracts that might otherwise have been placed with houses of reputation in larger cities, have been entrusted to him and have been satisfactorily completed. Mr. Snoeberger was married to Miss Hannah Smouse, a native of Bedford County, and they have one daughter, Ada, who resides with her parents. Mr. Snoeberger and family are members of the Brethren church. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 869. DAVID G. SNYDER, a highly respected citizen of Taylor Township, Blair County, Pa., who has resided on his valuable farm of seventy-two acres since the spring of 1909, was born in South Woodbury Township, Bedford County, Pa., April 29, 1860, and is a son of Jacob U., and a grandson of John Snyder, the latter of whom settled in Snake Spring Township, Bedford County, at an early date. The parents of Mr. Snyder died in Bedford County. David G. Snyder grew to the age of fourteen years in South Woodbury Township and had school privileges there, and then made his way to Yakima Valley, in the State of Washington. Finding no favorable opening there for a youth without capital, he returned to the East and after reaching Altoona, Pa., learned the baking trade and followed the business for two years and then came to Taylor Township and embarked in farming and stock raising. He is a broad-minded, intelligent, thinking man and has always taken an interest in educational matters and served for eight years as a school director in South Woodbury Township and during a portion of the time was treasurer of the school fund. Other local offices that he held there were inspector and judge of elections. In all public positions he has given satisfaction because he has performed his duties carefully and honestly. He casts his vote with the Democratic party. Mr. Snyder was married to Miss Ella Kajarise, who was born in Bedford County, and is a daughter of Samuel Kajarise, who now resides at Altoona. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder have had six children: Claude, Charles R., Corinne F., Ruth H., Hervey and Charity, the two last named being deceased. Mr. Snyder and wife are members of the Brethren church at Altoona. Mr. Snyder made his own way in the world, in youth having no influential friends to give him assistance and inheriting neither money nor land, nevertheless the record of his life shows that industry and honesty, fidelity and perseverance are pretty sure to bring their reward. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 526. JOHN M. SNYDER, who is engaged in the practice of law at Hollidaysburg, Pa., has been a resident of this city for thirty years. He was born at Junction City, Kans., and was brought here by his parents in early youth. The late Harrison H. Snyder, father of John M., was a very prominent citizen of Blair County for many years. He was born here in 1837; in early manhood was admitted to the bar. During the time of his residence in Kansas, he was county attorney of Geary County and the noted "Wild Bill" was his chief marshal. Mr. Snyder served as a soldier in the Civil War for three years, being a member of the 62nd Pa. Vol. Inf. His death occurred in 1891. John M. Snyder was practically reared in Blair County and after attending through the public school course he entered Lafayette College, at Easton, Pa., where he was graduated with the class of 1894. He then studied law with W. I. Woodcock and was admitted to the bar in 1896, and at present is a practitioner in both the courts of the state and in the Federal courts. As business opportunities have presented themselves, Mr. Snyder has frequently taken advantage of them and is concerned with a number of enterprises, officially and as a stockholder. He is vice president of the Olanta Coal Mining Company; is president of the Thermic Coal and Supply Company, of Hollidaysburg; and is a director of the First National Bank of Williamsburg. In 1906, Mr. Snyder was married to Miss Loretta R. Brown, of Pittsburg, and they have one child, Harrison Coleman. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder are members of St. Luke's Episcopal Church of Altoona. He is prominent in Masonry and is past master of Juniata Lodge, F. & A. M.; past high priest of the Chapter and a member of Mountain Commandery, at Altoona, and of Jaffa Temple, Mystic Shrine, also at Altoona. Mr. Snyder can claim the ancestry which entitles him to membership in the Sons of the Revolution and he is identified with this order at Philadelphia. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 520. JOHN M. SORRICK, who carries on general farming on a tract of 187 acres in Woodbury Township, Blair County, Pa., has been a life-long resident of this county. He was born August 24, 1848, at Yellow Springs, Pa., and is a son of Valentine and Eva (Henry) Sorrick. Valentine Sorrick was a native of Blair County, and his wife was born in York County, Pa. They were members of the Lutheran church, and he was politically identified with the Democratic party. The following children were born to Valentine and Eva Sorrick: Catherine, now deceased; Samuel, deceased; Susan, deceased; Elizabeth, deceased wife of William Lower; Jacob H.; Mary, deceased wife of Alfred Hancuff; Eva, deceased wife of William Piper; Rebecca, wife of George Aurandt; David, deceased; and John M. John M. Sorrick was reared and educated in Blair County and has always followed farming, having purchased his present farm, which is part of the old Sorrick homestead, in 1883, from his father's heirs. He has erected a fine modern home on the farm, and is recognized as one of the leading and enterprising citizens of the township. He is politically a Democrat, and has served as supervisor and school director of this township. He affiliates with the Farmers' Grange, and his religious connection is with the Lutheran church. On December 31, 1874, Mr. Sorrick was joined in marriage with Alice Shaffer, a daughter of Frederick and Angeline (Anderson) Shaffer, who were well known farmers of Blair County. Of their union have been born the following children: Mary, who is the wife of William Aurandt; Clara, the wife of Isaiah Garner; Elmer; Ella, deceased wife of Howard Wertz; Samuel, Harvey, John, Lloyd, and Frank. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 785. HARRY A. SPARR, superintendent of the quarry operated by the Americas Steel and Wire Company at Wert Station and a director of the Farmers and Merchants National Bank of Williamsburg Pa., has been a resident of this borough for many years. He was born October 16, 1868, in Blair County, Pa., and is the only child born to Albert D. and Sarah (Gibboney) Sparr, who are now residents of Williamsburg. His father was for many years engaged in agricultural pursuits, and is politically a Republican. His religious connection is with the Lutheran church. Harry A. Sparr was reared in his native county and after a common school education began clerking in a general store at Coldforge, where he remained five years. He also spent nine years as a clerk in a general store at Williamsburg, and since 1900 has been superintendent of the American Steel and Wire Company's quarry, which is located at Wert Station, and gives employment to 150 men. Mr. Sparr is also one of the directors of the Farmers and Merchants National Bank of Williamsburg. He is fraternally a member of the Juniata Lodge of Masons at Hollidaysburg, the Knight Templars and the Shrine at Altoona, and the Heptasophs of Williamsburg. In politics he is identified with the Republican party, and is religiously a member of the Lutheran church. In 1898 Mr. Sparr was joined in marriage with Grace A. Louden, who is a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Jane Louden, who were well known agriculturists of Woodbury Township. Mr. and Mrs. Louden were parents of the following children: Marion; James; Lucinda, wife of J. H. Likens, who is moral instructor at the Huntingdon Reformatory; Ella (Mrs. Eicholtz); Margaret, who is the wife of David Spealman; Sadie, who married George Spealman; Idela, an instructor in the schools at Huntingdon, Pa., and Grace A., who is the wife of the subject of this sketch. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 828-829. DAVID H. SPEALMAN, deceased, who was one of Frankstown Township's most respected citizens and a very successful farmer and stock raiser, was born in Frankstown Township, Blair County, Pa., April 16, 1862, and is a son of David and Susan (Maughmer) Spealman. They had three children, namely: George M., Sallie, wife of Winfield Keesey; and Catherine, wife of William Davis. David H. Spealman grew to manhood on his father's farm and obtained a common school education. He was naturally bright in intellect and easily mastered his lessons at school and later just as easily comprehended the practical details which served to make him more successful as a farmer and stock raiser than many others. He not only had the knowledge but knew how to apply it. For some time prior to 1900, when he came to the farm on which his family still reside, he lived on his father-in-law's farm. Mr. Spealman was married April 9, 1884, to Miss Margaret Loudon, a daughter of Thomas and Jane (McCauley) Loudon, both of whom are now deceased, their burial being in Fairview Cemetery at Altoona. They were good people, worthy members of the Lutheran church. The brothers and sisters of Mrs. Spealman were as follows: Lucinda, wife of John H. Lykens; James A.; William Marion; Ellen, wife of George M. Eichholtz; Sallie B., wife of George Spealman; Idella, a popular school teacher at Huntingdon, Pa.; and Grace A., wife of Harry A. Spahr. Of the above family, Mrs. Spealman is the sixth in order of birth. To Mr. and Mrs. Spealman four children were born, namely: Bessie A.; Florence H., who is the wife of E. Reed Mentzer; Jean W., who is a student in a preparatory school for teachers; and Hazel E. The death of Mr. Spealman, which occurred March 16, 1909, was much regretted in the neighborhood where he had spent his life. In every relation of life he was a man to be honored and respected. He was a Republican in politics but, with the exception of serving as school director one term, had never held office. He was a member of the Lutheran church to which his family is also attached. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, p. 589. JOHN A. SPRANKLE, whose death occurred June 19, 1902, in Philadelphia, Pa., for many years was a leading merchant at Altoona where he built up a great business from small beginnings, founding it on the rock of business integrity. For years he was recognized as one of Altoona's most enterprising merchants as well as representative citizens. He was unusually broad minded, was liberal in his charities and generous in his support of all movements that, in his judgment, would prove beneficial to his city. He was born in Morris Township, Huntingdon County, Pa., July 3, 1829, and was a son of Benjamin and Elizabeth (Anderson) Sprankle. John Sprankle, grandfather of the late John A. Sprankle, was born in Germany and came from there to Pennsylvania, being a very early settler in Huntingdon County. On his pioneer farm in Morris Township was born his son, Benjamin Sprankle, in 1806. The latter led an agricultural life, cleared the homestead and added to its dimensions and lived into extreme old age, at the time of his death being the most venerable resident of Morris Township. He and wife were among the very early supporters of the Reformed church at Alexander, Pa. John A. Sprankle was one of a family of ten children and grew into youth on his father's farm. Other sons of the family carried on the necessary agricultural operations while he went to the little settlement gathered around Rockhill Furnace and became a clerk in the general store of Izett & Wigton, at that point. Finding this work congenial he decided upon a mercantile career and in 1853 came to Altoona, and for seven years afterward was a clerk in the employ of Alexander McCormick of this place. By 1861 he had accumulated and had at command sufficient capital to start a general mercantile business for himself, opening up a small stock at first and in its disposal making so many business friends and winning such substantial patronage, that by 1864 he found himself compelled to increase his accommodations. He then erected a commodious building on the corner of Ninth Street and Eleventh Avenue, and there carried on a very large and prosperous business for many years. He acquired other valuable property at Altoona, and in 1872, a little less than twenty years after coming to this city, practically without means, was able to erect what was considered the most palatial private residence on the line of the Pennsylvania Railroad between Pittsburg and Philadelphia. His widow resides alone in this beautiful residence, which is situated at No. 1403 Ninth Street, her surroundings being all that taste and wealth can supply. In 1857, Mr. Sprankle was married to Miss Eliza A. McKnight, whose father was the late Robert McKnight. For many years Mr. Sprankle was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in which connection he was highly valued. Mrs. Sprankle is also a member of this church and is likewise interested in its various avenues of benevolence. In politics, Mr. Sprankle was a Republican and was a zealous worker for many candidates of his party although he invariably declined public office for himself. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 618-621. HON. ANDREW S. STAYER, M. D., who is engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery at Altoona, Pa., has long been eminent in his profession in Blair County, and for years has also been prominently identified with other interests vital to the progress and development of this section. He was born on his father's estate in South Woodbury Township, Bedford County, Pa., May 21, 1848, and on the paternal side traces his ancestry to France and on the maternal to Switzerland. His paternal great-grandfather accompanied General Lafayette to America and served with him in the patriot army during the Revolutionary War, afterward settling permanently in Bedford County, Pa. The parents of Dr. Stayer are both deceased. Andrew S. Stayer made such good use of his educational opportunities in his youth that by the time he was seventeen years of age, he had assimilated enough book knowledge to be an acceptable teacher; and from that time on until he began the serious study of medical science he alternated in teaching school and attending the normal institute as a student. In 1870, when he began attending medical lectures at the Michigan State University, he possessed a well trained mind and one well stored with general knowledge. After another period spent in the office of his preceptor, Dr. Charles Long, of South Woodbury, he entered Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia, from which justly famed institution he was graduated on March 12, 1873. He immediately located for practice at Roaring Springs, Blair County, where, in the face of many discouragements, he finally won the confidence of the public and there built up a large and substantial practice. For many years he served as physician also for the outdoor paupers of Taylor Township, and for ten years was a member of the school board. Realizing at last, however, that his field of opportunity was too circumscribed where he was situated, he surrendered the associations he had there formed, and coming to Altoona, began anew the task of making himself a place and building up a worthy name in a strange community. How thoroughly he has done this, his fellow citizens well know. Not only has he won distinction in the ranks of his chosen profession, but he has also achieved it in a wider field of action - the arena of public politics. An active Republican, he was sent in 1880 as a senatorial delegate from Blair and Cambria Counties to the Pennsylvania State Convention of the Republican party that nominated James A. Garfield for the Presidency. In 1891 he was elected a member of the Pennsylvania State Legislature and served until 1893. From April 5, 1879, until 1904, he was officially connected with the Pennsylvania State Guards, being appointed by Governor Hoyt assistant surgeon of the 5th infantry, and serving until February 12, 1880, when he was made surgeon and served as such until April 29, 1883. On April 18, 1884, he was appointed assistant surgeon and in the same month became surgeon, and through subsequent appointments and promotions became major and surgeon of this regiment. In 1904 Dr. Stayer was promoted to lieutenant colonel and chief surgeon of the division and still holds that rank. Dr. Stayer has been a force in furthering educational legislation and has long been a worker in church and Sunday school. His connection with Odd Fellowship has been of long duration and of much importance. He has filled the office of district deputy grand master in Blair County. In 1870 he joined Cove Lodge No. 368 in Bedford County, into which he was initiated by J. I. Noble. He also became a charter member of Archie Maxwell Lodge No. 145. He was a charter member of Model Lodge No. 856, at Roaring Springs, and was its first noble grand; and is also a charter member of Amicitia Lodge No. 775, of Pattonsville, with which he continued to be identified until he moved to Roaring Spring. In Masonry he is a Knight Templar and 32d degree Mason, belonging to Portage Lodge, No. 220, F. & A. M., at Hollidaysburg; Woodbury Lodge, F. &. A. M.; Hiram Lodge, No. 616, of which he is first worshipful master; of Mount Moriah Chapter, No. 166, R. A. M., Hollidaysburg; of Mountain Commandery, No. 10, K. T., Altoona; and Ancient Arabic Order, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, of which he is a past officer. He has been a member of the school board at Altoona for ten years. On July 30, 1870, Dr. Stayer was married to Miss Rosa M. Brumbaugh, and they have two sons and one daughter, the sons being named respectively, Edgar Simon and Morrison Clay. Both have received the degree of A. B. and are officers in the U. S. army. Dr. Stayer himself served in the Spanish-American War, with the rank of major-surgeon of the 5th Pennsylvania Volunteers. Both his sons were in the same regiment - one as a commissioned officer and the other as a member of the hospital corps. Dr. Stayer's daughter, Clara Mabel, is a graduate of Wellesley College, being especially well qualified in the modern languages, botany, and landscape gardening. Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, pp. 678-681.