BIOS: Surnames WAP to ZOOK - Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County, Pennsylvania, 
and Representative Citizens, Jesse C. Sell, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold, 1911, File 14

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CHARLES McCLELLAND WAPLE, the genial and popular proprietor of the Ward
House, one of the leading hostelries of Tyrone, Pa., was born at Salem
Church, Clearfield County, Pa., December 29, 1863, and is a son of Thomas and
Maria Waple.
     Thomas Waple was born in Virginia. He is a blacksmith by trade but now
lives retired at Phillipsburg, Pa., being in his seventy-fifth year. He
married a lady of Clearfield County and they had two children: Charles
McClelland and Lillie, the latter of whom is the wife of Amos Owens, of
Clearfield.
     Charles M. Waple was reared in Clearfield County and obtained his
education in the public schools of Bigler. On June 26, 1880, he came to
Tyrone and for seven years following had charge of the finishing department
in a tannery at this place. In 1887 he went into the hotel business, taking
charge of the Pennsylvania House at Tyrone and conducting it for some five
years. In 1893 he changed to the Central Hotel, which he successfully
conducted for eleven years and then went to Phillipsburg, where he had charge
of the Potter House for five years. In May, 1910, Mr. Waple came back to
Tyrone, where he has a host of friends, and purchased the lease of the Ward
House. Since taking charge he has spared no expense in renovating the whole
building and not confining his efforts to the inside. The beautiful cement
walks around the hotel make an exceedingly attractive relief for the stately
building which has between eighty and 100 rooms and all of these have been
equipped with appropriate comforts and conveniences, from the office to the
servants' quarters. It is conveniently located near the station of the
Pennsylvania Railroad and the cuisine is kept up to the highest mark. It is
Mr. Waple's aim to make this a favorite stopping place for travelers,
transients, tourist parties and permanent guests, giving them assurances and
proof that this is a pleasant home for any length of time.
     Mr. Waple is a member of all leading fraternal organizations. In
politics he is a Republican and has served two terms as a member of the
Tyrone town council as he was also of the Phillipsburg council. He takes an
intelligent citizen's hearty interest in county politics.
     In 1884 Mr. Waple was married to Miss Margaret Troutwine, and they have
three living children: Walter, who is proprietor of the Potter House at
Phillipsburg; Charles, who is a student at Susquehannah University; and
Catherine, who attends the public schools at Tyrone. Mr. Waple is a man who
stands high socially and otherwise, is of unimpeachable business integrity. 
His fame as a host extends all through Central Pennsylvania.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 857.

HON. WILLIAM B. WARD, a prominent citizen of Altoona, Pa., a member of the
State Legislature and a leading Republican politician, was born in Franklin
County, Pa., November 17, 1859, and is a son of Henry and Mary Ellen (Murray)
Ward. Henry Ward was born and reared in Franklin County and lived there until
1870, when he moved into Blair County. He followed railroading and was well
known all through this section. His death occurred in 1905.
     William B. Ward was one of a family of eight children and he had no
superior educational opportunities. His father being a railroad man probably
led him to the railroad shops when he started to learn a trade and he
continued there and became an expert forgeman. Mr. Ward belongs to the
thinking as well as working class and he early identified himself with the
Republican party and assumed the responsibilities of a citizen. After
acceptably serving two terms in the city council at Altoona, in November,
1908, he was elected to the legislature and has proved faithful to the
promises he made to his constituents.
     Mr. Ward married Miss Elizabeth Furlong, on February 16, 1881, and they
have one son, James H., who is a machinist in the railroad shops at Altoona.
The family home is a comfortable residence on Sixth Avenue, Altoona. Mr. Ward
is identified with the Knights of Pythias and the Eagles and he belongs to the
Republican Club.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 938.

JACOB S. WAREHAM, whose ninety-acre well improved farm is situated in Taylor
Township. Blair County, Pa., was born in Snake Spring Township, Bedford
County, Pa., March 18, 1863, and is a son of Michael S. and Catherine
(Snyder) Wareham.
     Michael S. Wareham was born in Bedford County and was a son of Joseph
Wareham, who was of English extraction and was a resident of Bedford County
for a long time.  Michael S. Wareham was a well known and substantial citizen
of Bedford County, a good financier and a practical farmer. He was a
Republican in his political sentiments and was a worthy member of the
Brethren church. He married Catherine Snyder, who was born in Bedford County
and came of German ancestry, and six of their children survive, namely:
Elizabeth S. of Monroe Township, Bedford County; Margaret S., of Everett,
Pa.; Jacob S.; Joseph S., of Martinsburg; Andrew S., of Snake Spring Township; 
and Mary S., of Everett, Pa. The father of the above family died March 10, 1894, 
and the death of the mother followed on April 18, of the same year.
     Jacob S. Wareham attended the public schools in Bedford County in his
youth and also very early began to learn the business of farming, to which he
has devoted a large part of his attention ever since. He raises the usual
grains of this section and also grows excellent stock. He came to his present
farm in the spring of 1894 and all his surroundings indicate thrift and comfort.
     Mr. Wareham was married February 27, 1890, to Miss Annie K. Mock, a
daughter of David B. Mock, of Taylor Township, and eight children have been
born to them, seven of whom survive: Susie M., John A., Mary K., Irvin A.,
David M., J. Paul and Jesse M.  Mr. Wareham does not call himself a
politician but he takes a good citizen's interest in the election of capable
men to office and in the making of good laws for every class. He has served
as school director in Taylor Township, and is one of the representative men
of this section.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 648.

B. F. WARFEL, attorney at law, practicing in all the courts of the State of
Pennsylvania, has been a resident of Hollidaysburg for fourteen years. He was
born in Tyrone Township, Blair County, Pa., in 1871, and is a son of the late
John Warfel.
     John Warfel was born in Huntingdon County, Pa., and came to Blair County
early in the sixties. He served for three years and nine months as a soldier
in the great Civil war, a member of the 110th Pa. Vol. Inf., and was twice
wounded, one injury resulting in the loss of his left eye.
     B. F. Warfel attended the Blair County schools and the Indiana State
Normal School and afterward taught school for five years. He studied law in
the office of Attorney W. I. Woodcock, and was admitted to the bar in
September, 1900. Mr. Warfel is a stockholder in two of the National banks of
Blair County and has other interests additional to his professional ones. 
Mr. Warfel was married November 6, 1901, to Miss Maud E. Hunter, of
Harrisburg.  They are members of the Lutheran church.  His fraternal
affiliations are with the Masons and the Sons of Veterans.  He is numbered
with the substantial and representative citizens of Hollidaysburg.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 526-527.

FRANK MALCOLM WARING, cashier of the Farmers and Merchants National Bank of
Tyrone, Pa., and for the past twenty years identified with the banking
business in this borough, was born at Tyrone, June 12, 1874, and is a son of
Edmond and Lydia (Beyer) Waring.
     Edmond Waring, who is a retired resident of Tyrone, has spent the
greater part of his life here. Formerly he was interested to a considerable
extent, in horticulture. He is a son of William Griffith Waring, who was one
of the early settlers and large real estate owners at Tyrone and in many ways
was a man of unusual worth and prominence. He was born in County Hereford,
England, one of a family of five brothers and sisters, there being still one
survivor, Edmund, who is a minister in the Methodist Episcopal church, at
Osceola, Ia. Of the five brothers and sisters, four died within a period of
three years, the youngest being eighty-two years old. William Griffith Waring
was ninety years of age at the time of his death, in 1907. He came to America
prior to 1840, married a Miss Coble, of Center County, Pa., and later
acquired much land in Blair County, establishing a nursery near Tyrone and
buying much of the ground on both sides of what is now Washington Avenue. In
England he had been a classmate of Isaac Pitman, the founder of the system of
short-hand writing, and after he came to America he represented Mr. Pitman for
a time and later, with his son George Waring, founded the Waring School of
Short Hand, an improvement on the Pitman system. He was the first
superintendent of the Pennsylvania State College, known then as the Farmers'
High School, which was later incorporated with the former title. Much of his
time was devoted to his nursery and orchards. He was a stockholder in and a
regular contributor of the New York Tribune.
     Edmond Waring married Lydia Beyer, who died in 1892. She was a daughter
of Aaron and Lydia (Ramey) Beyer, a granddaughter of David Beyer, who came to
Pennsylvania in 1800, from Frederick County, Md., and settled on what is now
known as the Breidenbaugh farm, in the upper end of Logan Valley, and there
erected a mill, now known as the Fuoss mill. Frederick Ramey, the maternal
great-grandfather of Frank M. Waring, was an iron worker and he located at
what is known as Tyrone Forges. Later he purchased a farm in Sinking Valley
on which he located. His brother, Daniel Ramey, conducted a hotel at
Hollidaysburg for many years. To Edmond Waring and wife ten children were
born and all of them survive, residing in different sections of the country.
     Frank M. Waring attended the public schools at Tyrone until he was
sixteen years of age and then became a clerk in a bank and was advanced in
that institution until he was cashier. He resigned that position in November,
1902, in order to organize the Farmers and Merchants Bank of Tyrone, of which
he has been cashier since its organization. The confidence of his fellow
citizens was notably shown at this time, as it required but ten days for him
to raise the funds among them to capitalize this institution.
     Mr. Waring was married on June 25, 1895, to Miss Jessie Calderwood, a
daughter of the late James Monroe and Cinderella (Hemler) Calderwood, of
Tyrone. They have five children: Helen, Monroe C., Frederick, Thomas Lincoln
and Dorothy, all now in school. Mr. Waring is a member of the First Methodist
Episcopal Church, at Tyrone. He is an accomplished vocalist and many times
sings in church affairs, not only at home but elsewhere, his services in this
direction being highly valued. He is one of the managers and the treasurer of
the E. J. Pruner Home for Friendless Children, at Bellefonte, Pa., the
founder of which was the late Col. E. J. Pruner. He is also treasurer of the
Business Men's Association, at Tyrone. He is one of the active members of the
Y. M. C. A., belonging to its social committee, for which his natural gifts
well qualify him, and he belongs also to the Heptasophs and to the Modern
Woodmen of America, being the local head banker of the last named
organization. He is a zealous Prohibitionist and has taken a very active part
in temperance work, lends his influence to everything that promises to elevate
the public mind, and, in fact, is a man and citizen of whom any community
might well be proud.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 920-921.

FRANCIS HEYER WEAVER. One of the old, prolific and substantial families of
Blair County bears the name of Weaver. It is of German origin but generations
have passed since it was first established in Pennsylvania, where the
industry, thrift and high character of its members have long contributed to
its best citizenship. Francis Heyer Weaver, of Freedom Township, is a well
known representative of this family. He is the proprietor of 500 acres of
fine farming land, known as Weaverlea, is a veteran of the Civil War and has
been especially honored in a public way by appointment to responsible
positions. He was born at Newry, Pa., May 20, 1844. His parents were George
and Lavinia (Fetters) Weaver.
     George Weaver was born in Center County, Pa., a son of Jacob Weaver, who
was a son of Jacob Weaver, a Revolutionary soldier. George Weaver was reared
in what is now Blair County and became a man of family and importance. For
thirty-three consecutive years he served as justice of the peace in Juniata
and Freedom Townships, was a director of the Blair County Poor Home, was
active in all local improvements and was a sound, reliable, sensible man in
everything pertaining to life and its duties as he saw them. He voted first
for Andrew Jackson for President of the United States, later became a Whig
and subsequently a Republican, led largely by his anti-slavery views. He was
sympathetic and it is said helpful in relation to the underground railway,
that quiet system that, prior to the Civil War, assisted slaves to escape to
Canada. His death occurred September 15, 1879, and his funeral drew the
largest concourse of people ever seen on a like occasion, in this
neighborhood. He married Lavinia Fetters, whose uncles, "The Fetters Boys,"
were the famous Indian fighters and who slew the last Indians east of the
mountains. The remains of Fort Fetters may still be seen on the banks of
Fetters Run, one mile northwest of Hollidaysburg. Of this marriage these
still survive: Lavinia, who is the wife of John B. Holland, of Newry, Pa.;
Francis Heyer; Margaretta D., who lives at Newry; S. Blair, who is a retired
citizen of Newry; Juniata, who is the wife of Harry Wike, who is an officer
of the Pennsylvania State Reform School at Huntingdon, Pa.
     Francis Heyer Weaver attended the district schools and remained on the
home farm until he was seventeen years of age. Although only a boy in years
he had attained the stature of a man and when he presented himself for
enlistment as a private in Co. C., 53d Pa. Vol. Inf., on October 10, 1861, he
was accepted and marched away with his command to become a part of the Army of
the Potomac. He fought as a soldier at Fair Oaks and Malvern Hill and in the
campaign of seven days' fighting that followed, at Harrison Landing,
Antietam, Fredericksburg and Gettysburg. Before he was twenty years old he
had been wounded twenty-two times and on account of his injuries, was
transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps, in which he served out his full
period of enlistment. His bravery was recognized by General Grant, who also
showed confidence in his judgment, business capacity and diplomacy by sending
him to execute the treaty, known as the Felix-Brunot treaty, long neglected,
with the Southern Ute Indians, a commission Mr. Weaver successfully carried
out, in 1877, under very hazardous conditions., In 1880 he was appointed
chaplain of the 10th U. S. Cav. and served until he was retired in 1897. By
Act of Congress, without his knowledge, he was promoted to the rank of major
on April 23, 1904.
     Mr. Weaver completed his education after his discharge from the
volunteer army and sufficiently recovering from his injuries. In 1872 he
graduated from Pennsylvania College, Gettysburg, and in the class of 1876 was
graduated from the Gettysburg Theological Seminary, at Gettysburg, Pa. In late
years his interests have been largely agricultural, farming and stock raising
on an extensive scale occupying the larger part of his time. He has always
been deeply interested in the Grange movement, thoroughly believing in its
principles and is identified with the organization at Poplar Run.
     On November 30, 1876, Mr. Weaver was married to Miss Catherine M.
Schneider, a daughter of Louis H. Schneider, a former resident of Washington,
D. C. They have three children: Louis S., who is a physician in practice at
York, Pa.; George D., who is a resident of Youngstown, O.; and Marguerite,
still at home. Mr. Weaver and family are members of the Lutheran church. He
belongs to the G. A. R. Post at Duncansville, Pa., and to the Pennsylvania
Comniandery of the Loyal Legion of the United States. He has twice been a
beneficiary by special Act of Congress for meritorious services in the Civil
War.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 732-735.

LEWIS B. WEBER, whose well cultivated farm of 122 acres is situated in Huston
Township, Blair County, Pa., was born June 18, 1856, in Clearfield County,
Pa., and is a son of George J. and Elizabeth (Zilliox) Weber and a grandson
on the maternal side of Godfrey Zilliox, who was an old resident of
Clearfield County.  Both parents of Mr. Weber were born in Germany and came
to America with their parents in their youth.
     Lewis B. Weber was reared in Clearfield County and obtained his
education in the district schools and learned the principles of farming from
his father. For seventeen years he devoted himself to agricultural pursuits
in his native county and then, in October, 1902, he came to Blair County and
settled on his farm in Huston Township. Mr. Weber attends closely to his
business, farming and stock-raising, and has met with excellent success and
is numbered with the substantial men of this section. He takes a good
citizen's interest in public affairs in his township, but is not a politician.
     Mr. Weber was married December 25, 1884, to Miss Susan Haag, who was
born in Jefferson County, Pa., a daughter of the late Frederick Haag, who
formerly was a well known resident there. To Mr. and Mrs. Weber a family of
seven children were born, all of whom have been afforded educational
advantages. Mary E., the eldest daughter, is the wife of Homer Hamilton, of
Huston Township. Elizabeth E. is the wife of Blaine Greaser, of Altoona, Pa.
George G. is a student in the State Normal School at Lock Haven, Pa.  William
O., Charles E., Clair L. and Agnes A., all reside at home. Mr. Weber and
family are members of the Reformed church at Drab, Pa.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 864-865.

WEEST BROTHERS, proprietors of the Hotel Grand, one of the most comfortable,
convenient and well appointed hostelries of Altoona, are numbered with the
enterprising and popular business men of this city. The firm is made up of
Harry W. and William Weest, both of whom were born at Altoona, sons of W. G.
and Anna Mary (Heoffler) Weest.
     W. G. Weest was born in Germany but spent the larger portion of his life
in America. For fifteen years he conducted a butcher business at Altoona, but
in 1892 entered into the hotel business and continued to conduct it until his
death, which occurred in January, 1900. His widow survives and also their five
children: John, Harry W., Anna, William and Mary. The Hotel Grand, which is a
commodious structure standing on the corner of Sixth Avenue and Third Street,
has thirty-eight rooms and is fitted up in modern style with every comfort and
convenience demanded by the traveling public. The patronage is generous. Both
proprietors are men of family. Harry W. Weest married Miss Fannie Rutter and
they have four children: Mary, Viola, Harry and Helen. William Weest married
Miss Emma Lafferty, a daughter of Isaac Lafferty of Altoona, and they have
two children: Thelma and Irene.  The late W. G. Weest was a member of the
Lutheran church.  In politics he was a Republican and fraternally he was an
Odd Fellow.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 779-780.

THOMAS WEIR, proprietor of the Hotel Altamount, one of the largest, best
equipped and most modern hostelries in Blair County, which attracts the best
class of travelers who visit Altoona and provides a comfortable home, with
its eighty rooms, for many exclusive city people, was born in Scotland, May
9, 1865, and is a son of Robert and Jane Weir and a grandson of Thomas Weir.
     In the management of all his business affairs Mr. Weir has proven
himself a careful, far-seeing business man. Prior to taking charge of the
Hotel Altamount, in 1880, he served three years as chief of the police
department of Altoona and is well and favorably known to the public at
large.  Mr. Weir was married first in 1885, to Miss Dorothy Cowley, who died
in 1899, and second to Miss Frances Stewart. They have three children:
Jennie, Robert and James. In his political views he is a Republican and
fraternally a Mason.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 767.

JOHN S. WERTMAN, who has been employed as station agent and operator for the
Pennsylvania Railway Company at McKee Station, Pa., since February, 1893, was
born at Millerstown, Blair County, Pa., September 1, 1859, and is a son of
Samuel and Susan (Smith) Wertman. Samuel Wertman was a native of Bedford
County, Pa., and was a son of Jacob Wertman, who was one of the pioneer
settlers of Bedford County. The mother of our subject was born in what is now
known as Blair County, Pa.
     John S. Wertman was reared in Blair County, Pa., and was educated in the
schools of Blair and Bedford Counties, and during early manhood taught
fourteen terms in the schools of these counties. In 1891 he entered the
employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at Henrietta, Pa., acting as
telegraph operator and station agent for fourteen months, and since February,
1893, has served continuously in that capacity at McKee Station. Mr. Wertman
is prominent in the ranks of the Republican party in this vicinity, and has
served for the past nine years as a member of the school board at Freedom,
and during eight years of this period he was treasurer of the school fund. He
also served two terms as auditor of this township, and for two years was a
member of the Republican Central Committee from Freedom Township, which met
at Hollidaysburg, Pa. Fraternally he is a member and is vice grand of the I.
O. O. F., of which he was for nearly four years financial secretary, and is
also a member of the J. O. A. M., both of East Freedom, and also served as
financial secretary of the latter order a number of years.
     Mr. Wertman was united in marriage with Miss Caroline Snyder, a daughter
of Christopher Snyder, late of Roaring Spring, Blair County, Pa., and of their
union were born nine children: George L., who resides at Roaring Spring, Pa.;
Mary, who is the wife of B. D. Green of McKee; Harry G., who lives at McKee
Station; Samuel E., who resides in McKee; William W., who is a resident of
McKee; and Bessie, Charles, Arthur and Marie. Mrs. Wertman passed out of this
life in January, 1906.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 669-670.

ALBERT M. WERTZ, a well known general farmer residing on a farm of 107 acres
in Frankstown Township, Blair County, Pa., was born June 9, 1837, on a farm
adjoining his present place and is a son of Jacob and Ruth (Baird) Wertz.
     The paternal grandfather of our subject was Jacob Wertz, and the family
originally came from Holland.  The parents of our subject were farmers and
came to this county from Lewiston, Huntingdon County, Pa. He was politically
a Whig, but later a Republican. They were members of the Lutheran church and
were buried at the Frankstown Cemetery. The following children were born to
Jacob and Ruth Wertz: Sarah, the deceased wife of John Larson; Susan, married
Abraham Robison; John, deceased; Charlotte, deceased wife of Levi Grove;
Jacob; William; Mary, deceased; Albert M.; Luther, deceased; Abigail,
deceased wife of Asbury Mountain.
     Albert M. Wertz was reared in his native township and attended the local
schools until sixteen years of age. He served nine months in the army without
injury, enlisting in 1862 in Company I, 137th Reg. Pa. Inf., and was
honorably discharged at the close of his term. He has resided on his present
farm since 1864, when he purchased it from Martin Denlinger. The farm was
without improvements of any kind, and Mr. Wertz has erected a fine home, a
substantial barn, and all other necessary outbuildings. Here he has carried
on general farming, and is recognized as one of the most substantial and
progressive farmers of the township, and is held in high esteem by his fellow
citizens.
     In October, 1858, Mr. Wertz was joined in marriage with Catherine
Ritchey, a daughter of George and Sarah Ritchey, prominent farmers of Bedford
County, Pa., and the parents of the following children: Mary, the wife of
Samuel Wysong; Catherine, wife of our subject; Levi; Myria, the wife of Jerry
Long; Sarah; David; Albert, Jane; Rebecca; Callie.
     To Mr. and Mrs. Wertz were born the following offspring: Amon Boyd;
Adrain Blair; Anna; Libby, married David Denlinger; Ruth, the wife of William
Vipond; Sadie, deceased; Ida, married John Young; Julia, the wife of James
Graham; Albert; and Eugene. Mr. Wertz is politically a Republican, and has
served one term as a school director, was assistant supervisor, and is a
member of the burial association. The religious connection of the family is
with the Mennonite church.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 899-900.

PROF. HENRY S. WERTZ, a prominent business man of Duncansville, Pa., senior
member of the Duncansville Granite and Marble Works, is one of the best known
educators in Blair County, having been more or less identified with
educational work since he was nineteen years of age. He was born in
Greenfield Township, Blair County, Pa., March 4, 1849, and is a son of Henry
and Catherine (Stephens) Wertz.
     Henry Wertz was born at Dayton, O., and his wife in Blair County, Pa.,
and both died in Greenfield Township. Nicholas Stephens, the maternal
great-grandfather, was a pioneer in Blair County and his son, also Nicholas,
resided for many years in Blair Township. In his later years he moved to
Benton County, Ia., where he died, an octogenarian.
     When Henry S. Wertz was about four years old, his parents moved to
Somerset County, Pa., but six years later returned to Blair County and the
father resumed farming in Greenfield Township. Henry S. Wertz was ten years
old at that time and he attended the local schools until prepared for higher
courses and then entered Juniata College, at Martinsburg, and later became a
student in Dickinson Seminary, at Williamsport. When nineteen years of age he
became a teacher in Blair County and subsequently was principal of the Second
Ward School at Altoona, for two years, and for four years was principal of
the Third Ward School. He advanced rapidly in the confidence of the people
and in May, 1891, he was elected county superintendent of Blair County and
was thrice reelected, serving four consecutive terms in that important
position. After becoming interested also in other business lines, Prof. Wertz
continued to devote a part of his time to teaching, for some five years,
during the summer seasons, giving instruction in mathematics and languages at
Juniata College. For twenty years he has been a resident of Duncansville and
has ever been an active and interested citizen. He is serving as borough
treasurer and has filled this office for a number of years and formerly was
secretary of the council. Although nominally a Democrat he is inclined to
entertain independent views on many questions, being progressive and
broad-minded, as is indicated by his appearing as a candidate for county
representative on the Prohibition ticket, for Blair County, to the state
legislature.
     Since May 1, 1908, Prof. Wertz has been a member of the firm of Wertz
and Hess, proprietors of the Duncansville Granite and Marble Works,
successors to H. F. Peck, manufacturers and dealers in all kinds of artistic
monumental and cemetery work. He has long been deeply interested in the Blair
County Agricultural Association and in all organizations looking to the
advantage of farmers. He has been secretary of this association since the
spring of 1907, having been one of its promoters and is a director and
stockholder. He is county deputy of the Blair County Grange, and secretary of
Blair Pomona Grange, and for four years was master of Allegheny Grange, No.
1154, at Duncansville. He is serving also as secretary of the Duncansville
Building and Loan Association. For many years he has been a Mason and is a
member of the Blue Lodge at Hollidaysburg, of Mountain Commandery at Altoona
and the Chapter at Hollidaysburg, and is also an Odd Fellow, with connections
at Claysburg, Pa. He is a member and a trustee of the Methodist Episcopal
church at Duncansville and superintendent of the Sabbath-school.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 675-676.

JOSEPH P. WERTZBERGER, who, for the past three years has been residing on his
present farm of eighty acres in Logan Township, Blair County, Pa., was for
many years engaged in operating a hotel at Altoona, Pa. He was born June 21,
1849, in Woodbury Township, Bedford County, Pa., and is a son of Stephen
Wertzberger, who was a native of Germany, was accidentally killed by a blast
in a stone quarry, in Bedford County, Pa. Three sons and three daughters were
born to the parents of our subject: Margaret (Mrs. Frank), who resides on
Twenty-ninth Street, Altoona, Pa.; John and Andrew, both of whom reside in
Altoona; Joseph P.; Rosanne (Mrs. Foster), who lives near Rosehill Cemetery;
and Mary (Mrs. McFarland), who lives in Philadelphia. The mother is now a
resident of Altoona, being in her eighty-seventh year.
     Joseph P. Wertzberger was about seventeen years old when he came from
Bedford County to Altoona, Pa., with his widowed mother and the family, and
after working about at various places, learned the carpenter's trade, which
he followed seven or eight years in the West. After his return to Altoona, he
continued working at his trade for about eighteen months, then leased the
McCabe House on Ninth Avenue, and successfully managed that for one year and
nine months. In 1886 he purchased a hotel on Tenth Avenue and successfully
operated same until 1907, since which time he has been residing on his farm
in Logan Township, which he had purchased some twenty years before.
     Mr. Wertzberger was united in marriage with Mrs. Barbara Burgoon, who is
a native of Blair County, Pa., and a daughter of Charles and Caroline
(Sweigert) Baier. Her father was a native of Germany, and for some years
lived in Altoona, but spent his later years on a farm in Logan Township,
where he died. Mrs. Wertzberger was the youngest of five children born to her
parents. She is the mother of two children by her marriage with Albert
Burgoon: N. H. Burgoon, who is proprietor of a drug store located on the
corner of Seventh and Twelfth Streets; and John T., who is a traveling
salesman. Her marriage with Mr. Wertzberger resulted in the following issue:
Harry Stephen, who is a machinist, at Altoona, married Alma Cunsman; Joseph
L., who is employed as a stenographer, and Charles S., who was born on the
farm in Logan Township. The three brothers, operating under the name of
Wertzberger Brothers, are raising chickens along scientific lines. Although
they have been in the business but little more than two years, they are
meeting with much success and have captured numerous prizes at the various
shows, where they have exhibited. Mr. Wertzberger is a member of St. Mary's
German Catholic Church. He belongs to the B. P. O. E.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 593-594.

CHARLES J. WHITE, owner and proprietor of a general store at Frankstown, Pa.,
where he is also postmaster, was born in Frankstown Township, Blair County,
Pa., August 4, 1871, and is a son of Charles and Amanda (Markey) White.
     Charles White was formerly a well known farmer in Frankstown Township,
he also operated a saw mill at Snow Shoe, Centre County. During the last ten
years of his life he lived retired and his death occurred March 28, 1909, at
Hollidaysburg. He married Amanda Markey, who resides at Hollidaysburg. She is
a member of the Baptist church there, as was also her husband. They had five
children born to them: Samuel D., Charles J., Christian O., William M. and H. K.
     Charles J. White obtained his education in the public schools and in
1892 became a clerk in a store at Hollidaysburg, where he remained for eleven
years. He then went to clerk for the P. R. R. at Altoona and two years later
purchased his store at Frankstown. On December 19, 1905, he was appointed
postmaster. He is a Republican in his political views although his father was
a Democrat. Mr. White owns the homestead residence property at Hollidaysburg
and also an interest in the homestead farm in Frankstown Township.
     On April 23, 1902, Mr. White was married to Miss Charlotte M. Green, who
for seven years had been prominently engaged as an instructor in the Public
Schools of Medina, N. Y., and later was commissioned instructor in the Indian
Schools at St. Thomas Asylum on the Iroquois reservation. She died September
13, 1903. Her parents were Warren S. and Mary (O'Dell) Green, former
residents of Medina, New York. Mrs. White had two sisters and one brother:
Sylvia May, Sadie L. and Edward C.  Mr. White is a member of the Baptist
church at Hollidaysburg. He is identified with the order of Maccabees at
Hollidaysburg and is the oldest member of this organization.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 806-807.

DAVID R. WHITE, a well known and highly respected citizen of Snyder Township,
Blair County, Pa., is engaged as a brick mason at Tyrone but since 1897 he and
family have resided on a valuable farm of ninety-seven acres, which his wife
inherited from her father. Mr. White was born in Huntingdon County, Pa.,
August 3, 1849, and is a son of William and Elizabeth (Sloan) White, who also
had a daughter, Emma, who is the wife of Samuel Stauffer.
     David R. White attended the district schools in his boyhood and
afterward learned the brick-mason's trade, which he has followed more or less
continuously ever since. On November 12, 1873, Mr. White was married to Miss
Martha McClain, a daughter of Augustus and Rachel (Cain) McClain. They had
two children, Martha and Mary, the latter of whom is the wife of Edward
Hammil. To Mr. and Mrs. White eight children have been born, namely:
Gertrude, who is the wife of John Feters; William; Nelson; Jesse D.; Rachel,
who is the wife of Scott Sessaman; David C., Austin and Ella. The sons of Mr.
White carry on farm operations, the two older ones being married and residing
on the farm. Mr. and Mrs. White are members of the Methodist Episcopal
church. In politics Mr. White and his sons are Republicans. He is a member of
the Royal Arcanum.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 950-951.

ELMER B. WHITE, a prosperous farmer and much respected citizen of Woodbury
Township, Blair County, Pa., is the owner of a farm of fifty-eight acres, and
was born May 1, 1870, on this farm, and is a son of Daniel M. and Elizabeth
(Bowers) White. Both the paternal grandparents, Andrew and Martha White, and
also the maternal grandparents, Michael and Mary Bowers, were of German descent.
     Daniel M. White was born in Huntingdon, Pa., and his wife was a native
of Woodbury Township. He taught forty winter terms and ten summer terms of
school in the county, which is believed to be a record. They attended the
Dunkard church, and the father was a Republican in politics. Six children
were born to Daniel and Elizabeth White, namely: Lisander, Charles, Samuel,
Mary, who is the wife of Frank Fields, Dillie, and Elmer B.
     Elmer B. White grew to maturity on his present farm, and was educated in
the common schools of the township. After leaving school he spent one year
doing agricultural work by the month, then returned to the home farm, which
he and his sister Dillie inherited from his father, and has since been
engaged in general farming here. He has repaired and remodeled the old home
residence and has erected a fine bank barn. He and his sister attend the
Dunkard church, and in politics he is 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. 656-657.

RALPH R. WHITTAKER, M. D., a well known physician and surgeon of
Williamsburg, Pa., has been identified with the medical profession of this
borough since March, 1909, and was born November 25, 1879, in Huntingdon
County, Pa., a son of William and Caroline (Huyett) Whittaker, and a grandson
of Thomas Whittaker.
     William Whittaker was a native of Huntingdon County, Pa., and a farmer
by occupation. His religious connection was with the Presbyterian church,
while in politics he was identified with the Republican party. Four children
were born to William and Caroline Whittaker: Frederick A., Wilbur H., Mabel
Clare, and Ralph R.  Mrs. Whittaker was the mother of two children by a
former marriage with Reuben Oaks, namely: William, and Mary, who is the wife
of G. A. Beckley.
     Dr. Ralph R. Whittaker was reared in his native county, and after a
common school education, attended the Juniata Academy one year, then spent
two years at Mercersburg, where he graduated with the class of 1903. His
knowledge of the medical profession was obtained at the University of
Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, and he graduated from same with the class of
1907. He spent one year at the Allegheny General Hospital, at Allegheny, Pa.,
in general hospital work, then was assistant surgeon for the Carnegie steel
plant at Homestead, Pa., and since March, 1909, has been located at
Williamsburg, Pa., where he is successfully engaged in the general practice
of medicine and surgery.
     On February 24, 1909, Dr. Whittaker was married to Miss Helen Winnifred
Ullery, who is a daughter of John C. and Catherine (Paisley) Ullery, of
Altoona, Pa., and is one of three children born to her parents: John, James,
and Helen W.  John C. Ullery was a moulder by trade. Dr. Whittaker is a
member of the I. O. O. F., of Williamsburg; the Heptasophs, of Huntingdon;
and Juniata Lodge, F. & A. M., of Hollidaysburg. He and his wife are both
members of the Presbyterian church.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 839.

MICHAEL J. WIKE, foreman of the pulp department of the Tyrone Paper Mill for
thirty-one years, and a resident of Tyrone, was born in Huston Township,
Blair County - at Morrison's Cove near Martinsburg. His parents were Henry
and Nancy (Rhodes) Wike, the father a native of Huntingdon County, Pa., and
his mother of Blair County. The latter was a daughter of Abraham and
Elizabeth Rhodes, pioneers who emigrated in canvas covered wagons to Blair
County. He settled at Morrison's Cove, on Piney Creek, building a log house
and clearing the timber for a farm. The paternal grandfather of the subject
of this sketch settled in Westmoreland County at an early day and lived and
died there. His father was a Revolutionary soldier.
     Henry Wike, father of Michael J. Wike, was a coverlet weaver by trade.
About 1844 he engaged in farming, but also continued weaving to some extent.
He was born January 13, 1800, and died May 25, 1861. He was twice married.
His wife Nancy, the mother of our subject, was born in October, 1809, and
died February 14, 1879. Of Henry Wike's first marriage there were four sons
and one daughter and of his second there were five children, of whom there
are now living two daughters - Nancy and Magdalena - and Michael J., the
subject of this sketch, the other two children, David and Abraham, being
deceased.
     Michael J. Wike in boyhood attended the common schools of Huston
Township, pursuing his studies in a primitive, building where the scholars
sat on benches without backs. He subsequently attended Juniata Academy at
Martinsburg, earning the money to pay his tuition fees. He left school when
fifteen years old and first found occupation as a teacher in Blair County,
for one term, and afterward teaching one term in the state of Indiana. Then,
after having served an apprenticeship to the trade of millwright he followed
it up to 1883 and does some work in that line at the present time.
Martinsburg was his home up to 1880 and he then came to Tyrone as
superintendent of the pulp mill, a position he has held for thirty-one years,
having been engaged in the pulp and millwright business for thirty-seven years.
     In 1886 Mr. Wike was married to Susan Dallas of Tyrone, who was born at
Mt. Union and came to Tyrone when small. Two children - a son and daughter -
were born to Mr. and Mrs. Wike, both now living, namely: Mary, wife of John
Bullock of Punxsutawney, Pa.; and Joseph Victor, who is married, and has a
son, John Wike. Both Mr. Wike's son and son-in-law are in the employ of the
paper mill. Mr. Wike is a Republican politically but supports the best men
for office. He belongs to Tyrone Lodge, No. 494, F. & A. M., Harrisburg
Consistory, and Jaffa Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Altoona. He is also a
charter member of Sinking Spring Lodge, K. of P., and past chancellor of the
grand lodge, K. P. of Pennsylvania; also a charter member of the lodge of
Junior Order of American Mechanics, No. 42.  Coming to Tyrone when the paper
mill started, Mr. Wike has since resided here and has become a popular
citizen of the place, being widely known and esteemed.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 941-942.

GEORGE WASHINGTON WILEY, a well known general merchant of Bellwood, Pa., who
is also extensively engaged in the coal business, has been a resident of
Blair County, Pa., since February, 1878. He was born May 16, 1851, in Chester
County, Pa., a son of James and Angeline (Pluck) Wiley, who during their
advanced years came to live with our subject and wife, with whom they
remained until their respective deaths.
     George W. Wiley was about two years old when his parents moved to
Mifflin County and located at Lewiston, where he resided until about eighteen
years of age. He then went to Huntingdon County, Pa., where he lived some
seven or eight years, and in February, 1878, came to Blair County, and
located at the old Mary Ann Forge. Here he started the first bread wagon ever
run in this town and after running it for four years came to Bellwood, and
established a general store at his present location. Four years later he
embarked in the coal business at his present location, and since that time
Mrs. Wiley has had charge of the store, which is conducted under the name of
M. J. Wiley, and they carry a complete stock of general merchandise.
     Mr. Wiley was married October 20, 1872, in Huntingdon, to Mary Jane
Snack, who was born about six miles from Huntingdon, Pa., a daughter of
William and Elizabeth (Parker) Snack. Her father was a native of Maryland and
the mother of Huntingdon County, and both spent their later days at the home
of our subject and wife.  Mr. and Mrs. Wiley are the parents of seven
children as follows: William J., who is an engineer on the B. & O. railroad,
a resident of Newark, Ohio, married Mamie Hook and has one son and one
daughter - George Worth and Ormandella; Mary Elizabeth, who died aged sixteen
months; Edwin Miles, who is a resident of Bellwood, married Leah Hay and has
two children, Frances Elizabeth and Edwin Foin; George Guyer, a resident of
Independence, Wis., who has two daughters - Mary Clair and Anna Steward;
Charles Clyde, who died at nineteen years of age; Emma Pearl, who died aged
four months; and Harry Ray, who is engaged in business with our subject,
married Clara Peters and has two children, Ray and Pauline.
     Mr. Wiley is politically a Republican, and is fraternally a member of
the I. O. O. F. and the Royal Arcanum. He holds membership with the M. E.
Church, of which he has been a trustee for thirty years.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 741.

GEORGE C. WILSON, a prominent citizen of Tyrone, proprietor of the Wilson
Chemical Works, was born in Tyrone, Blair County, Pa., son of Dr. James T.
and Henrietta (Clement) Wilson. His grandparents on the paternal side were
George and Agnes (Cunningham) Wilson. The grandfather, who was born in
Mifflin County, this state, in 1799, removed in early life to Huntingdon
County and resided at Alexandria, that county, until his death in 1850. He
was a carpenter and cabinet maker, and also conducted a machine shop, being a
man of great mechanical ability and skill. He and his wife had a family of
nine children, several of whom became skilled artists, especially Jeremy, who
is now deceased. Mr. Wilson's maternal grandmother was a daughter of Jeremy
Cunningham, a native of Ireland, who came to this country at an early day,
served as a soldier in the War of 1812, and died in Huntingdon County, Pa.,
at an advanced age. This sturdy ancestor of our subject married a daughter of
Col. John Spencer, of Massachusetts, who served on General Washington's staff
in the Revolutionary War.
     Dr. James T. Wilson, father of George C., was reared in Alexandria, Pa.,
and after attending the common schools, graduated from a commercial college at
York, Pa., being then only sixteen years old. He then taught school for two
winters, afterwards worked in a store at Pottsville for a year, and later for
two years was a store keeper at Pennsylvania Furnace. He then began the study
of medicine under Dr. Daniel Houtz of Alexandria, and was subsequently
graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with the degree of M. D., in
March, 1864. After a short period of practice in Petersburg, Pa., he moved in
1865 to Tyrone, where he is now numbered among the most successful physicians
and most prominent citizens of the place. His wife, Henrietta, is a daughter
of Samuel and Henrietta Clement of Huntingdon County, Pa., and a
great-granddaughter of Michael Hilligas, or Hillegas, the first treasurer of
the United States. The children of Dr. James T. Wilson and wife were four in
number - S. Clement, George C., Edward B., and Carroll Dewey. Of these Edward
B. and Carroll D. are now deceased.
     George C. Wilson acquired his education in the public schools of Tyrone,
Pa., and since beginning his industrial career has developed a marked degree
of business ability. He was clerk in the Tyrone postoffice under Peter A.
Reed, and for six months under Major Jones. For fifteen years he was business
clerk for Mr. A. G. Morris, who was president of the Blair County National
Bank and also of the American Lime and Stone Company. Later on Mr. Wilson
established the Wilson Chemical Works in Tyrone, the products of which reach
the markets of the entire country and have a national sale as well as
reputation, and of which concern Mr. Wilson is now the proprietor. He has
also large real estate holdings both in Tyrone and in other cities, both in
Pennsylvania and other states. He is also a director in the Blair County
National Bank of Tyrone. Ambitious and energetic, his success has been
self-achieved, as his initial capital consisted chiefly of pluck and ability
to rise. He occupies a prominent place among the successful men of Tyrone. He
is a 32d degree Mason, a member of Tyrone Lodge, F. & A. M., also of the
Harrisburg consistory, and Syria Temple of the Mystic Shrine, at Pittsburg.
In politics he is a Democrat. Mr. Wilson married Miss Loueffa Ross, a
daughter of George Ross. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are the parents of two children
- Adelaide and George Hillegas. Mr. Wilson and family reside at their
handsome home on Washington Avenue.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 966-967.

JAMES T. WILSON, M. D., a veteran practitioner of Tyrone, Pa., having been
engaged in successful practice here for the past forty-six years, was born in
Alexandria, Huntingdon County, Pa., February 29, 1840, son of George and Agnes
(Cunningham) Wilson.
     The father, George Wilson, was born in Mifflin County, this state, in
1799, but removed in early life to Huntingdon County, settling at Alexandria.
There he resided until his death in 1850. A carpenter and cabinet maker by
trade, he also owned a machine shop, where he demonstrated his possession of
great mechanical ability, if not genius, by turning out some of the most
difficult machine work for a wide section of country. He was a staunch
Democrat in politics and an active and influential member of the Presbyterian
church. His wife Agnes was a daughter of Jeremy Cunningham, and they had a
family of nine children: Jeremy, Mary, David, Anna, Martha, Prudence, Harriet
N., James T., and George C., of whom the following is a brief record:
     Jeremy served during the Civil War as a volunteer surgeon in the
hospitals at and near Washington City. He married Frances Becker He became a
prominent artist, winning fame by the excellence of his art work. He was a
student of P. F. Rothermel, the distinguished painter of "The Battle of
Gettysburg," for which the city of Philadelphia paid the sum of $20,000, and
traveled abroad with Mr. Rothermel for three years, studying and copying the
works of the old masters in the capitals of Europe. He resided at his decease
in Alexandria, Huntingdon County, Pa.
     Mary, the second child, became the wife of Livingston Robb (now
deceased) and resides in Woodcock Valley, Huntingdon County.
     David Wilson served three terms as sheriff of Huntingdon County, and
died in January, 1903, while serving in his third term. He enlisted in the
14th Pennsylvania Inf. in 1861 and served three months. He married Mary
Hoffman. Anna Wilson married Carroll C. Dewey, a merchant and banker (both
now deceased) of Canton, Ill.
     Martha Wilson (now deceased) studied art and became a teacher of drawing
and painting at Birmingham and Glenns Falls, N. Y., Lewisburg, Pa., and other
places. Prudence (now deceased) became the wife of John G. Cresswell (now
deceased), a baggage master on the Pennsylvania Railroad between Harrisburg
and Philadelphia. Harriet N. (now deceased) was an artist engaged in giving
lessons in drawing and painting.
     George C. Wilson, the youngest of the family, who died May 13, 1879, was
a veteran of the Civil War, having enlisted when less than eighteen years of
age in Co. I, 5th Pa. Reserves. After the battle of Antietam he was promoted
by Gov. Curtin, for bravery, to lieutenant in the 2d Pa. artillery. He was
wounded in the Peninsula campaign, and taken prisoner at the battle of
Chapen's Farm, spending six months in the military prison at Danville and
Salisbury before being exchanged. On his exchange he was promoted to the rank
of captain and was mustered out of service June 8, 1865. After the war he
became an editor and journalist and was thus engaged at the time of his death.
     The maternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch, Jeremy
Cunningham, was a native of Ireland, who emigrated to this country at an
early day, settling in Huntingdon, Pa., where he died at an advanced age. He
was a farmer by occupation, a member of the Presbyterian church and served as
a soldier in the War of 1812. He married a daughter of Col. John Spencer, an
officer in the Revolutionary War, who served on General Washington's staff.
The colonel was from the state of Massachusetts. Of this marriage were born a
son and daughter, the latter, Agnes N., being the mother of Dr. Wilson. Mrs.
Cunningham died when her daughter was very young. Mr. Cunningham subsequently
married again and had three sons and three daughters by this second marriage.
After her mother's death Agnes N. Cunningham went to live with her maternal
grandfather. She early became a member of the Presbyterian church at
Alexandria, of which George Wilson was an elder, and the acquaintance there
formed resulted in their marriage. She died at Alexandria, July 24, 1891,
aged nearly 89 years, having passed her entire life in that picturesque
village. George Wilson, the father of our subject, held a commission, dated
August 3d, 1828, under Governor Shulze for a period of seven years of captain
of Pennsylvania infantry.
     Dr. James T. Wilson was reared at Alexandria, Huntingdon County,
receiving a good common school education and later taking a course of
training in the commercial college at York, this state, from which
institution he was graduated in 1856, when sixteen years of age. He then
taught for two winters, while studying in the summer months, after which he
became clerk in a store at Pottsville, Pa., where he remained one year. Then
he secured a position as store keeeper at Pennsylvania Furnace. Here he
remained two years when, having attained his majority, he began reading
medicine with Dr. Daniel Houtz of Alexandria. Two years later he matriculated
at the University of Pennsylvania and was graduated from that institution in
March, 1864, with the degree of M. D.  Locating in Petersburg, Huntingdon
County, he practiced there for one year, and in the spring of 1865 moved to
Tyrone, this county, where he has since resided, devoting his attention
exclusively to the practice of medicine. He has been quite successful, enjoys
a lucrative practice and has gained an honorable standing in his profession.
     Dr. Wilson enlisted in 1862 in the 125th Reg. Pa. Volunteers, but owing
to disabilities was rejected. He was drafted in 1863 but was exempted from
duty. July 3, 1863, he was examined for surgeon at Harrisburg. He helped to
recruit a company of volunteers in 1861. He was physician for the
Pennsylvania Railroad and branches for five years from 1865 to 1870.
     On October 25, 1866, Dr. Wilson was married to Henrietta Clement, who
was born in Philadelphia, a daughter of Samuel and Henrietta Clement of
Huntingdon County, formerly of Philadelphia. Mrs. Wilson is a great
granddaughter of Michael Hilligas. The latter, according to articles found in
the Literary Digest, was a pre-Revolutionary sugar refiner, a manufacturer of
iron, and a merchant, whose credit was at George Washington's command
whenever the Father of his Country needed funds during the war. He is thus
credited in this article, through efforts of a descendant, Rev. Michael Lee
Minich, a Lutheran minister, and secretaries John Hay and Leslie M. Shaw, who
from the archives of the State and Treasury departments got proof of
Hilligas's prior claims, hitherto credited either to Robert Morris or Samuel
Meredith. The new ten dollar treasury note bears a portrait of Michael
Hilligas, "first treasurer of the United States."
     Dr. Wilson and wife have been blessed with a family of four children -
S. Clement, George C., Edward and Carroll Dewey. The first mentioned was born
October 25, 1867.  George C., born June 28, 1869, is proprietor of the Wilson
Chemical Co., of Tyrone, and has various business interests both in Tyrone
and other cities, including some valuable real estate in Tyrone. He is a
director of the Blair County National Bank of Tyrone, and is regarded as one
of the most successful men in this town. Edward Wilson, born January 14,
1875, died June 10, 1876. Carroll Dewey Wilson, born March 1, 1877, died
October 17, 1909.
     In his political affiliations Dr. Wilson was in early manhood a
Democrat. He voted the Republican ticket during the Civil War but has since
mixed tickets at pleasure. He is a member of Tyrone lodge No. 494, F. & A. M.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 970-972.

JOHN WILSON, proprietor of the Central Hotel, at Tyrone, Pa., conducts a
first class hostelry and takes that personal interest in his guests that
makes them feel at home and inspires the feeling that makes many of them
return to his hospitable roof whenever opportunity offers. Mr. Wilson belongs
to one of the old families of Northumberland County, England, where he was
born March 20, 1857. His parents were James and Hannah Wilson, plain, quiet,
industrious people who lived useful lives and died with the respect and
esteem of all who had known them. By a remarkable coincidence, they both
passed away on the same day, in 1896, at the same age, both having been born
in 1812. Of their nine children there are three survivors: William, a
resident of Luzerne County, Pa.; Thomas W., a resident of Northumberland,
England; and John, of Tyrone.
     John Wilson remained in England until 1881, when he came to America and
for about two years was engaged in coal mining at Plymouth, Luzerne County,
Pa. In 1883 he went to Houtsdale, in the Clearfield County mining district,
and again engaged in mining and continued in that industry for some
twenty-two years longer. He was the proprietor of the Imperial Hotel at that
place for nine years and then came to Tyrone and took charge of the Central
Hotel, which he has successfully conducted ever since, having been in the
hotel business for fifteen years. He is known all through this section and he
is one of the most personally popular hosts in the city.
     In 1889 Mr. Wilson was married to Miss Jane Smiles, a daughter of
Matthew Smiles, of Houtsdale, and they have had six children: William S.,
Joseph, Helen, Mary, John, and David Black, the last named being accidentally
killed by a fall from a wagon, in Tyrone. Mr. Wilson is a Republican but
official life presents no temptation to him, his business affairs and family
and social interests absorbing his time. He is identified with Clearfield
Lodge, B. P. O. E.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 847.

DR. THOMAS L. WILSON, who has been actively engaged in the practice of his
profession at Bellwood, Pa., since March, 1893, was born August 22, 1862, at
Warrior's Mark, Huntingdon County, Pa., and is a son of Christopher and Mary
Martha (Wheeling) Wilson.
     Christopher Wilson was born in Huntingdon County, Pa., a son of Thomas
Wilson, who was of Scotch descent, and who was one of the pioneers and for
many years a resident of Huntingdon County. Christopher Wilson always engaged
in agricultural pursuits, and died in December, 1907. He is still survived by
his widow, who in maiden life was Mary Martha Wheeling, a native of Center
County, and now a resident of Warrior's Mark, Pa. Three sons and two
daughters were born to Christopher Wilson and wife: Dr. Thomas L.; Dr. John
E., of Butler, Ky.; Elizabeth D., who is the wife of W. R. Wolf of Altoona,
Pa.; Ella R., who married J. E. Rumbarger of Warrior's Mark; and Dr. Harry
C., also a resident of Warrior's Mark.
     Dr. Thomas L. Wilson was reared and obtained his early educational
training at Warrior's Mark, and after taking a course at the Millersville
State Normal, taught school five terms in Huntingdon County. He then took a
course in medicine at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, at Baltimore,
graduating with the class of 1891, and immediately afterward embarked in the
practice of medicine at Warrior's Mark, where he continued two years. In
March, 1893, he came to Bellwood, and has been in active practice here since
that time, and is held in high esteem as an able and skillful physician. Dr.
Wilson is fraternally a Mason, holding membership with the Tyrone Lodge No.
494, the Chapter No. 189, the Commandery No. 10, and the Jaffa Temple and the
Mystic Shrine of Altoona. He is also a member of the Modern Woodmen, F. O. E.,
and Maccabees of Bellwood. He is politically a Democrat and was elected a
member of the council on that ticket, and also served as county committeeman
during his residence in Huntingdon County. He is a member of the Business
Mens' Association of Bellwood, and of the American, State and County Medical
Societies.
     On April 6, 1893, Dr. Wilson was joined in marriage with Regina
Henderson of Huntingdon County, the youngest daughter of R. L. and Susanna (Beck) 
Henderson. They have one daughter, Helen J. Wilson, now aged fourteen years.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 829.

ALEXANDER W. WILT, a leading citizen of Allegheny Township, Blair County,
Pa., and a successful business man, owns a farm of seventy-four acres in the
Carson Valley, which he devotes largely to fruit growing. He was born in this
township, August 17, 1861, and is a son of Alexander and Ellen (Yingling) Wilt.
     Alexander Wilt was born in Juniata Township, Blair County, and was a son
of Philip Wilt, who was an early settler there. Alexander Wilt died February
22, 1896. He was a useful man in his community and was held in respect by his
fellow citizens and possessed their confidence to such a degree that they
frequently elected him to office. He served as school director, as road
supervisor and as constable. He was a member of the Lutheran church. He was
twice married, first to Ellen Yingling, and second to Annie Brubaker. The
surviving children of the first union are: Alexander W.; William P., who is
in business in North Carolina; Joseph M., who lives at Duncansville, Pa.; and
Isaac C., who resides at Gallitzin, Pa. Of the second marriage the survivors
are: Emanuel G., residing in Juniata Township; Silas D., in Allegheny
Township; Peter H., in Juniata Township; Elsie, wife of George Lingenfelter,
of Altoona; and Lottie, wife of Harvey Burkhart, living in Allegheny Township.
     Alexander W. Wilt obtained his education in the public schools of
Allegheny Township and has always been a strong supporter of both schools and
churches, rightly believing these are great agencies for good in any
neighborhood. His land is particularly adapted to the growing of fruit and he
has devoted much study and attention to horticulture and with the result that
this branch of industry has been a very profitable one. Mr. Wilt is a
Republican in politics but holds no office with the exception of being a
director of the Carson Valley Cemetery Association.
     On November 3, 1881, Mr. Wilt was married to Miss Elizabeth C. Davis, a
daughter of William R. Davis, now deceased, who was once a well known
resident of Juniata Township. Mr. and Mrs. Wilt have had nine children born
to them, eight of whom survive, namely: Annie E., who is the wife of Jacob
Mock, of Hollidaysburg; Herbert L., who resides at Altoona; Clarissa, who is
the wife of Grover Selwitz, of Allegheny Township; and Herman J., Edith P.,
Sadie M., Gertrude M. and Dollie L.  Roy F. is deceased. Mr. Wilt is a member
of the Seventh Day Adventist church at Altoona, Pa.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 742-743.

EMANUEL WILT, owner of a farm of 125 acres in Juniata Township, Blair County,
Pa., has been a life long resident of this county, and was born July 15, 1871,
a son of Alfred and Mary (Stiffler) Wilt, and a grandson of David Wilt, who
was one of the early settlers and prominent citizens of Juniata Township.
     Alfred Wilt was a native of Blair County, Pa., and died here in June,
1907. He was one of the progressive and well known citizens of Juniata
Township, and served in various township offices. He was politically a
Republican, and served as auditor, tax collector and treasurer of the
township. He was a member of the Lutheran Church of Newry, Pa. Of his union
with Mary Stiffler, who was also a native of Blair County, were born the
following children: Amanda E., who is the wife of David Hanley, of
Duncansville, Pa.; Emanuel; and Clara B., who married O. J. Leighty, of
Poplar Run. Mr. Wilt was a member of the Grange of Poplar Run, Pa., and also
the Patrons of Husbandry. The mother of our subject is still living and is a
resident of Freedom Township.
     Emanuel Wilt has always resided in Blair County, Pa., and was educated
in the schools at Poplar Run, Pa. He has from youth up been engaged in
agricultural pursuits and is the owner of a fine farm of 125 acres in Juniata
Township. Mr. Wilt was married June 4, 1902, to Martha A. Feather, of Blair
County, Pa., and their union has resulted in the following issue: Ethel M.;
Alpherd L.; Carl E.; and Frieda E. Mr. Wilt is a Republican, and is now
serving his second term as a member of the board of auditors, of which he is
also secretary. He holds membership with the Lutheran Church of Newry.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 755.

FREDERICK S. WILT, one of Blair Township's well known and highly regarded
citizens, residing near Newry, Blair County, Pa., where he administers as a
justice of the peace, was born in Juniata Township, Blair County, February
16, 1841, and is a son of David Y. and Elizabeth (Stiffler) Wilt.
     David Y. Wilt spent his whole life in Juniata Township and was a son of
Peter Wilt, an early settler. He married Elizabeth Stiffler, and they had
twelve children of whom there are but two survivors: Frederick S. and Simon
G., the latter of Juniata Township. Four sons were soldiers in the Civil War:
Frederick S., Joseph J., Henry M. and John, a notably patriotic family.
     Frederick S. Wilt enjoyed no other educational advantages than those
offered by the district schools. He was reared on a farm but when the time
came that he could choose his own career, he learned the carpenter trade and
followed it for a number of years and also was in the timber industry,
working over great tracts from the cutting of the trees on through their
manufacture into lumber and the final sale of the same. Later he engaged in
farming in Juniata Township and continued until 1893, when he located in his
present home not far from Newry. For ten months of the Civil War he served in
the army, enlisting in August, 1862; in Co. I, 137th Pa. Vol. Inf., which
became a part of the Army of the Potomac. He participated in the momentous
battles of South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg and the Wilderness, vivid
memories of which he can recall and wonder again and again how he ever escaped
to return from such fields of carnage. He has always been something of a
leader in public affairs in his neighborhood, wherever he has lived and in
Juniata Township served also as a justice of the peace, as a school director,
constable and tax collector. At present he is a member of the school board of
the borough of Newry and has been president of this body.
     Mr. Wilt was married first to Miss Catherine Kunsman, who left children
as follows: James O., of Duncansville, Pa.; Harry Howard, residing in Juniata
Township; Nora, wife of Michael Moyer, living at Newry; and Homer, who is
deceased. Judge Wilt was married the second time, in 1877, to Mrs. Sarah J.
Weaver, widow of John Weaver, a former resident of Cambria County, and who
died while serving as a soldier in the Civil War. Her parents were Peter
Burtnett and wife, former residents of Cambria County. They are members of
Pine Grove United Brethren Church at Poplar Run and formerly he was a steward
in this church.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 838.

DAVID L. WINELAND, proprietor of McKee's Gap Feed Mills, and manufacturer of
feed, meal and buckwheat flour, is one of the progressive and enterprising
citizens of Freedom Township, Blair County, Pa., and has been a resident of
this township since 1902. He was born August 30, 1850, in North Woodbury
Township, Blair County, Pa., a son of David B. and Sophia (Loose) Wineland,
and comes of one of the early pioneer families of Morrison's Cove. His
paternal grandfather, John Wineland, came to Blair County from Virginia, when
seventeen years of age, and settled at Morrison's Cove, and his wife was a
native of Maryland.
     David B. Wineland, who resides with our subject, is now in his
ninety-fourth year, and was born in North Woodbury Township, Blair County,
Pa. He served for many years as a school director of North Woodbury Township.
He married Sophia Loose, who was a native of North Woodbury Township, and they
had the following children: Jacob L., who resides in Dallas Centre, Ia.; John
L., who lives in Martinsburg, Pa.; William L., who also resides in
Martinsburg; David L., who is the subject of this record; Hannah L., who is
the widow of Levi Smouse and resides in North Woodbury Township; and
Catherine, who is the widow of Peter Burkett, resides at Roaring Spring, Pa.
The mother of our subject died in 1900.
     David L. Wineland passed his boyhood days in North Woodbury Township,
and there obtained his education in the local schools. He has always followed
milling in Bedford and Blair Counties, Pa., and in 1902 came to Freedom
Township, where he has been continuously and successfully engaged in
operating the feed mills at McKee's Gap. He manufactures feed, corn meal, and
buckwheat flour and also deals extensively in flour and grain. Mr. Wineland
takes an active interest in the affairs of the Democratic party, and during
the nineties was a candidate on that ticket for county auditor, but was
defeated by a Mr. Patterson of Williamsburg, Pa.  He served six years as a
school director of North Woodbury Township, during part of which time he was
secretary of the board. He is now serving his second term as a director of
the school board of Freedom Township, and is also secretary of the same.
     Mr. Wineland was joined in the bonds of wedlock with Miss Elizabeth
Seedenberg, who is a native of North Woodbury Township, and a daughter of the
late Henry Seedenberg of North Woodbury Township. Nine children were born of
their union: Harry S., who resides in Allegheny Township, Blair County, Pa.;
William, manager Brook Mill; David, who is a resident of Cambria County;
Allen, who lives in Hollidaysburg, Pa.; Annie J., who is the wife of Frank
Curfman of Roaring Spring; Ida, who is the wife of H. Delozier of Blair
Township; Mary, who married Edward Wertman of McKee, Pa.; Sophia, who lives
at home, and Elizabeth, who is deceased.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 524.

FERDINAND A. WINTER, senior member of the business firm of F. A. Winter &
Son, extensive dealers in pianos, organs and other musical instruments,
handling everything known in music, with quarters at No. 1317 Eleventh
Avenue, Altoona, founded this business in this city in 1879, and for thirty
years he has been closely identified with Altoona and its varied interests.
Mr. Winter was born at what was then known as Phillipsburg, but now is
Monaca, Beaver County, Pa., May 23, 1844, and is a son of Rev. Ferdinand and
Joanna (Swartz) Winter.
     Rev. Ferdinand Winter was born in Germany and in 1839 he came to Beaver
County, Pa., and for forty-seven years served as a pastor in the Reformed
church. He was a man of scholarly attainments, a graduate of one of the great
German universities, and had the lines of his life led him into either art or
music, he would doubtless have become as eminent as he was useful in his
spiritual work. Many residents of Beaver County recall his technical skill as
a musician, a number having been his pupils in their youth, and they also
remember his enthusiasm concerning his many beautiful flowers which he grew
because he loved them. This kind, virtuous and beloved teacher and pastor
lived to be seventy-five years of age. He married Joanna Swartz, who was born
in Switzerland and survived him five years.
     Ferdinand A. Winter inherited many of his father's natural gifts and
after completing his academic course he engaged in teaching music and for
some time was instructor in both vocal and instrumental music in the United
Presbyterian Seminary in Beaver County. In 1871 he resigned his professorship
in that institution and then passed eight years at Pittsburg, where he dealt
in musical instruments. In 1879 he came to Altoona and the recognition of his
talents and appreciation of his business methods here, caused him to decide on
this city as a future home. Mr. Winter has done much to raise the standard of
musical taste, and the patronage he has received has been a substantial proof
of the public's recognition of his art and his untiring labors to advance it.
He offers only the best to his patrons in musical instruments and appliances
of all kinds, his own natural as well as acquired knowledge in this line
making him a competent judge and the best of advisors. He has seen his
business develop from a comparatively small beginning into one that has trade
connections all through Central Pennsylvania. The present firm style was
adopted when he admitted his son, Arthur E. Winter, to partnership. He has
always been a loyal and active citizen. In 1861 he entered the Federal Army
and his musical proficiency secured him the position of bandmaster of the
63rd Pa. Vol. Inf., and later of the 5th Heavy Artillery, and he served until
the close of the war.
     Mr. Winter was married in 1875 to Miss Anna Buhl, a daughter of Henry
Buhl, of Butler County, and they have had seven children: Walter F., Arthur
E., Harry E., Edith E., Carl Lewis, Paul T. and Marie H. The family home is
situated at No. 1914 Twelfth Avenue; Altoona. Mr. Winter and family are
members of the Presbyterian church. He is identified with the Grand Army of
the Republic.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 658-661.

SAMUEL L. WISLER, secretary of the board of road supervisors in Taylor
Township, Blair County, Pa., where he owns a well cultivated farm of
fifty-four acres, was born in this township, November 1, 1864, and is a son
of John and Catherine (Longenecker) Wisler.
     John Wisler was born in Adams County, Pa., and was a son of Samuel
Wisler, who was one of the early settlers of Taylor Township. John Wisler was
reared there and married Catherine Longenecker, who was born in Bedford
County, Pa. Both John and Catherine Wisler are deceased.
     Samuel L. Wisler was only three years old when his father died. He was
reared in Taylor Township and attended the Oak Grove public school. The
guardian appointed to look after his interests as long as he was a minor, was
Mr. D. M. Bare, the well known manufacturer of Roaring Spring and practically
its founder. Mr. Wisler has been engaged in farming since youth and he
carries on a general agricultural line, including the growing of some stock.
He has always been an active citizen, willingly contributing according to his
means for public improvements, good roads, schools and churches. He is serving
as road supervisor and is also clerk of Taylor Township. In politics he is a
Republican.
     Mr. Wisler was married in May, 1887, to Miss Elizabeth M. Frederick, a
daughter of John B. Frederick, who resides near Henrietta, Pa., and they have
four children: Charles F., John F., Paul F. and Martha F.  Mr. and Mrs. Wisler
are members of the Progressive Brethren church at Martinsburg, Pa.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 736.

   CHARLES T. WITHEROW, deceased, formerly motive power clerk for the Grand
Division Eastern Pennsylvania Railroad Company, at Altoona, and a valuable
citizen of much native force and ability, as well as usefulness, was born in
Bloomfield, Perry County, Pa., July 23, 1856. His parents were John and Maria
(Roth) Witherow. The father, in his later years a well-to-do retired farmer,
conducted the Witherow Mills, near Bloomfield, Perry County.
     The subject of this sketch, who was the only child of his parents, was
educated in the public and high schools of his native county, and at the
Academy at Bloomfield, Pa. His first self-supporting occupation was that of
school teacher, in which he continued for two years. He then entered the
office of the New Bloomfield Freeman, later merged with the Advocate, where
he learned the trade of printer. In 1875 he came to Altoona, securing
employment as a job printer in the office of the Daily Tribune, with which
paper he remained until January, 1876. He then obtained a position in the
Altoona offices of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, as clerk under the late
B. F. Custer, who was then chief motive power clerk. On September 11, 1880,
Mr. Witherow was transferred as clerk to the Altoona shops, and on July 1,
1883, he was promoted to the position of assistant motive power clerk. This
he held until October 1, 1892, when he became chief motive power clerk, which
position he retained up to the time of his death, which took place October 2, 1907.
     Though Mr. Witherow gave his full attention to the duties connected with
the railroad company, he found time to take part in various other activities,
and was one of Altoona's prominent citizens, both in business and social
life. He was particularly well informed in matters of investment, was one of
the pioneers in the building association field, and was secretary for many
years of the Blair County and Vigiland Building and Loan Association. In 1885
he was elected by a big majority, on the Democratic ticket, to the office of
city controller, being the first Democrat ever elected to that office, in
which he served the full term, and which was the only public office he ever
sought. He took an active interest, however, in matters connected with the
success of his party, to which on various occasions he rendered efficient
service. He was still more deeply interested in matters concerning the
general welfare of the city and often lent a helping hand in plans for
advancing its prosperity, his assistance contributing largely to the results
obtained. Among his other business activities he served as a director of the
Fairview Cemetery Association.
     Mr. Witherow was a Mason in high standing, being a member of Mountain
Lodge, No. 281, F. & A. M., of which he was Past Commander and was treasurer
at the time of his death; Mountain Chapter, No. 189, R. A. M.; Mountain
Council, No. 9, R. & S. M.; Mountain Commandery, No. 10, K. T.; also the
Consistory at Pittsburg and Jaffa Temple. He was also a charter member of
Altoona Lodge of Heptasophs, No. 132. With his family he was a member of the
Presbyterian church and at one time served as superintendent of the Sunday
school, besides being a trustee of the church. Notwithstanding his varied
activities and his influential position in the city of his adoption, Mr.
Witherow, like most truly strong natures, was a man of modest and unassuming
manners, always approachable, and intensely human in his sympathies, and
these qualities gained for him a legion of friends, who will long hold him in
affectionate remembrance. His surviving brothers and sisters are: Samuel S., a
resident of New Bloomfield, Pa.; John N., of McVeytown; Mrs. Rebecca Dern, of
Altoona; Mrs. Clara Klinepeter, of New Bloomfield, and Mrs. Alice V. Strouse,
of Mexico, Pa. Mr. Witherow's funeral services, held on October 4, 1907, were
in charge of the Mountain Lodge of Masons, and his remains were interred in
the private cemetery known as Fairview, to which reference has already been made.
   Mr. Witherow was united in marriage to Miss Anna J. Clark, a daughter of
the late John Clark, the well known banker of Altoona, and a granddaughter of
John and Eliza (Thompson) Clark. Her paternal great-grandfather, James Clark,
fought for American independence in the Revolutionary War, and was wounded at
the battle of the Brandywine, September 11, 1777.
   Mrs. Witherow's grandfather, John Clark, was born in Huntingdon County,
Pa., in 1789. At one time he operated a tannery at Birmingham, Pa., but later
retired and died on his farm in Morris Township, at the age of seventy-four
years. He was twice married; first to Catherine Whitzel, who died early. His
second union was with Eliza Thompson, a native of Spruce Creek Township,
where her father had been an early settler. Her death occurred in 1866, and
she had attained the age of sixty-six years.
   John Clark, second of the name and Mrs. Witherow's father, was born in
Canoe Valley, Catherine Township, Blair County, Pa., December 13, 1833. He
was educated at Williamsburg Academy, and until 1873 was engaged in stock
raising and agriculture on the home farm. He then became cashier of the
Williamsburg bank, which was organized at that time, and his subsequent
career was one of importance to the community. He made a very popular
official and for many years was a prominent factor in the development of the
financial interests of the county. He was a large land owner, having much
valuable property at Williamsburg, besides ore and coal properties and
limestone quarries elsewhere in the county, and a fine farm of 250 acres. Mr.
Clark was married, May 27, 1858, to Miss Mary J. Sisler, who died May 6, 1873.
Of this union there were six children born, namely: Edgar Thompson, who
married Lucretia Moore, of Scotch Valley; Anna J., who is the widow of the
subject of this sketch; John Grier; Charles H.; Dean; and Ida. The last
mentioned is the widow of Clarence C. Clemson, who was a prominent business
man of Pittsburg, where she now resides.
   Mr. Clark was a Republican primarily, and at various times was called upon
to serve in offices of public trust, in which he invariably acquitted himself
with credit, justifying the confidence of his fellow citizens in his
integrity and ability. Subsequent to 1880 he espoused the cause of
Prohibition, to which he devoted his best efforts, and although he was not
privileged to witness the general success of his party, for which he had
hoped, he was able to note much progress to that end, to which he himself
contributed not a little. Few citizens of Blair County were more
conscientious in the performance of public and private duties and few, if
any, were more highly esteemed. The death of Mr. Clark took place on January
21, 1904, in Altoona, and struck a chord of sorrow in the hearts of all those
in the community who knew him for what he was.
   The children born of the marriage of Charles T. Witherow and Anna J. Clark
were: Mary, who married George B. Newbold of a prominent Pittsburg family, and
resides in Louisville, Ky., and Kenneth C., who is a student in the Altoona
high school and lives with his mother. Mrs. Witherow resides in an elegant
mansion at No. 1014 Lexington Avenue. She is a prominent figure in the best
Altoona society, and it would be hard to find a worthy local cause that has
not benefitted by her aid and influence.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 493-495.

ALBERT A. WITTER, chief of the telegraph and the telephone department for the
Tyrone Division of the Pennsylvania Railroad, has been a resident of this
borough since the spring of 1879, and is an old experienced railroad man,
having been in the railroad service for forty-six years. He was born at
Milton, in Northumberland County, Pa., July 13, 1842, and is a son of Amos
and Mary (Delavan) Witter.
     Amos Witter was born and reared in Connecticut. He served in the War of
1812, and was major of his command, one of the youngest officers. Afterward
he came to Pennsylvania, and settled at Milton, where he worked as a
wagonmaker for many years, and died there in 1856. He married Mary Delavan,
who died when her younger children were small. Ten children were born to
them, namely: Mary, Elizabeth, Lucy, Almeda and Jane, all of whom are
deceased; Margaret, who is the wife of Paul Cudworth, of Manistee, Mich.;
Henry F., who was a graduate of West Point and died in the U. S. Army; Amos
C., who lives at Erie, Pa.;. Albert A.; and Robert Hammond, who is also deceased.
     Albert A. Witter had the misfortune to lose his mother while still a
child of tender years. He was the ninth in his parents' large family and
circumstances did not permit any extended period of school attendance. He was
only ten years old when he started to learn the printer's trade, in the office
of the Miltonian, at Milton, Pa., and while there also applied himself to
learning the art of telegraphy. On April 16, 1860, he went to Williamsport,
Pa., as telegraph operator on what was then the Williamsport & Elmira branch
but now is the Elmira Division of the North Central Railroad, where he
remained until April, 1861. He was continuously engaged at very important
points during the stormy years that followed and his experiences as a
telegraph operator during this period are well worth hearing. He was
transferred by the same company to Bridgeport and later from there to York,
Pa., and subsequently to Baltimore, Md., and then became train dispatcher
with headquarters at Erie, Pa., for the West Division, P. E. Railroad. In
1865 he returned to the North Central Railroad and was detailed as
trainmaster, at Harrisburg, on the Susquehannah Division and continued in
that position until after the Pennsylvania Company took charge of the North
Central. This gave Mr. Witter several years to devote himself to his private
affairs, but on March 1, 1879, he came to Tyrone, resuming railroad work and
becoming train dispatcher on the Tyrone Division. In 1881 he was made
division operator and assistant passenger trainmaster and has charge of the
telegraph and telephone work, in this connection. Mr. Witter is one of the
best known railroad men in this section. He has made his own way in the
world, practically without any assistance, and stands today with that band of
trusted, reliable, efficient men whom a great railroad system justly regards
as one of its bulwarks.
     Mr. Witter was married to Miss Isabel Moore, of Erie, Pa. Her father was
Capt. John Moore, formerly a commander of a vessel on Lake Erie, and one of
the first passenger conductors on the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern
Railroad. Two sons and one daughter were born to Mr. and Mrs. Witter: Charles
T., who is in the telegraph department of the Renova Division of the
Pennsylvania Railroad; James, who is a dentist at Tyrone; and Jennie F., who
is the wife of W. H. Agnew and a resident of Tyrone. Mr. and Mrs. Witter have
a comfortable home situated on Lincoln Avenue, Tyrone. They are members of the
Presbyterian church. In his political views, Mr. Witter is in close sympathy
with the Independent Republicans. He is a member of Robert Burns Lodge, No.
464, F. & A. M., at Harrisburg. He was interested in the Masonic Order from
youth as his father had been a charter member and also the first master of
Milton Lodge, at Milton, Pa., and was active in the fraternity until the
close of his life.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 927-928.

ADAM J. WOLF, deceased, for many years was one of the most highly respected
citizens of Hollidaysburg, where he was engaged successfully in the
cabinetmaking and undertaking business. He was a representative man among our
foreign born citizens, his birth having occurred at Assamstadt, Baden, County
of Boxberg, Germany, on December 21, 1821. His parents were Joseph and Mary
(Fohman) Wolf, the father being a cabinetmaker by trade. Mrs. Joseph Wolf was
a daughter of Dr. Carl Fohman, a prominent physician of Baden, Germany. All of
Mr. Wolf's remoter ancestors, so far as there is any record, were natives of
Germany, in which country they passed their lives. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Wolf
raised a family of nine children - five sons and four daughters - all of whom
were born in Germany. None of the daughters are now living. Of the sons the
following is a brief record: Valentine resides in his native land (the others
all came to America). John settled at Duncansville, Pa., and resided there for
many years, finally removing to Pittsburg, where the last years of his life
were spent. Francis also settled at Duncansville, which place he made his
home until his death. Joseph removed to Texas, of which state he was a
resident for a number of years. Adam, the remaining son, is the direct
subject of this memoir.
     Adam J. Wolf received his education in the excellent schools of his
native land. In 1843, when twenty-two years of age, he emigrated to this
country, first taking up his residence in Philadelphia, where he remained for
two years. He then removed to Hollidaysburg, where he worked for a time as a
journeyman carpenter. Not satisfied, however, with being merely a wage
earner, he husbanded his resources until he had sufficient capital to start
in business for himself, when he began in a small way in the same line of
trade. He was well adapted to succeed and soon found himself able to purchase
property and to build the cabinetmaking and undertaking rooms on Allegheny
Street, where he for many years subsequently carried on a prosperous and
extensive business. Just across the street was his commodious residence, and
adjoining it is Wolf's Hall, a large and handsome block which he built in
1879. He also showed his enterprise and good business foresight by erecting
other buildings in the town, all of which are desirable property. After a
long and successful career Mr. Wolf transferred the business to his son,
William F., and passed the rest of his days in retirement, though often
consulted by his sons in regard to business affairs. His death was an event
deeply regretted by the people of Hollidaysburg generally, who had known him
so long as one of the town's sterling citizens.
     Mr. Wolf was married, on January 7, 1850, to Mary Elizabeth Hurm, a
daughter of Godfred Hurm of Weildorf, Germany. Their family numbered six sons
- William F., Henry A., Salem Joseph, Adam Richard, Charles E. and Frank X.
The following is their record in brief:
     William F. Wolf, who has been already mentioned as his father's business
successor, is now successfully engaged in the furniture business in
Hollidaysburg, being located at No. 118 Allegheny Street. His residence is
next door to his store, at No. 116.
     Henry A. Wolf, who is now deceased, was engaged in the hardware business
at Altoona for a number of years, and resided at No. 1110 Seventeenth Street,
Altoona.
     Salem J. Wolf, who is now engaged in the hardware business at Altoona,
as proprietor of the S. J. Wolf Hardware Co., returned to Hollidaysburg in
1876. and established what was then the principal hardware business in the
city, known as the Salem J. Wolf Hardware Co. >From that date up to 1884 his
father was associated with him in the business. He resides at present at No.
2430 Broad Street, Altoona, Pa.
     Adam R. Wolf, who is the second vice-president of the Blair County Title
and Trust Co., entered in the hardware business in the year 1880, and for many
years conducted the Altoona Hardware and Supply Co. He was later proprietor of
the A. R. Wolf Hardware Co., of Altoona, and conducted the same until he
retired. He is also a director in the Blair County Title & Trust Co., and has
large real estate interests in Altoona.
     Charles E. Wolf, who was formerly in the hardware business at No. 1108
Eleventh Avenue, is now connected with the City Furniture Co., and resides at
No. 1617 Thirteenth Street. Frank X. Wolf died in 1875 at the age of sixteen
years. The surviving sons are all married and the descendants of the subject
of this sketch include a number of grandchildren. The late Adam J. Wolf was a
member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of Hollidaysburg for many years previous
to his death. In politics he supported the Republican party.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 896-897.

WILLIAM HENRY WOLFF, senior member of the firm of W. H. Wolff & Son,
proprietors of a first class laundry at Hollidaysburg, Pa., has been a
resident of Blair County since the spring of 1880 and was born June 25, 1854,
at Chambersburg, Pa., a son of Henry and M. C. Wolff, both now deceased.
     William Henry Wolff grew to man's estate in Chambersburg, Pa., and here
learned the carriage making trade, which he followed there successfully for
four years. In 1880 he removed to Altoona and entered the employ of the
Pennsylvania Railroad Company, working in the cabinet department under John
Burley (now deceased), for nineteen years. He resigned that position to
accept the office of treasurer of Blair County, being elected to that office
in 1899, and served very efficiently in that capacity for three years. Mr.
Wolff then embarked in the laundry business, which was entirely new to him,
and employed a Mr. Lynch, an experienced laundryman from the East to
establish the business for him. He erected his present buildings, installed
new and modern machinery throughout the entire plant, and now runs two wagons
in Altoona and one wagon and motor truck in Hollidaysburg. His office is
located at No. 705 Twelfth Street, Altoona, Pa., and he has established an
extensive and steadily increasing business, now having 1,400 patrons on his list.
     Mr. Wolff was joined in marriage with Ida Belle Kuhn, and they have one
son, William Henry, junior member of the firm of W. H. Wolff & Son, who
married Emma B. Walls. In politics Mr. Wolff is identified with the
Republican party and has served as a member of the borough council, of which
he was president, and was also chairman of the Water Department. He is
fraternally a member of the I. 0. 0. F.; the Knights of Pythias; Independent
Americans; and the Maccabees. The religious connection of the family is with
the M. E. church of which our subject is steward.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 574.

DANIEL DEETER WOOD, one of Tyrone's most respected and beloved citizens, who,
in his eighty-third year looks out on life with a happy smile and kind
intentions and thus gives many a man encouragement and cheer, from his own
experience showing his wide circle of friends that the evening of life has
its full compensations if its early and middle parts have been wisely spent,
was born in Center County, Pa., March 18, 1828, and is a son of Ebenezer and
Elizabeth (Deeter) Wood.
     Ebenezer Wood was of Scotch-Irish extraction and his wife of
Pennsylvania Dutch descent and both were born in Pennsylvania. His work was
connected with furnaces and he was considered an expert iron worker. He
married Elizabeth Deeter and five daughters and three sons were born to them,
all of whom have passed away except the subject of this record.
     Daniel Deeter Wood obtained his education in the subscription schools
but as soon as he had acquired sufficient strength, he became an iron worker
and continued as such until he was twenty-three years of age, when he became
a clerk in a general store at Clearfield. In 1858 he entered the employ of
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as freight brakeman and served as such for
four months, when he was appointed freight conductor on the main line.  In
1862 he came to Tyrone, having been promoted to the position of passenger
train conductor on the Tyrone branches, and in 1864 he was appointed train
master of the Tyrone Division, which responsible position he held
continuously until 1900, retiring after forty years of service, at the age of
seventy-two years. He has witnessed wonderful changes in railroading and has
also seen Tyrone grow from a comparatively small railroad town in 1851, when
he first came here, until the present, when it shows to the world a city of
wealth, comfort and culture, of which its residents feel justly proud. Martin
Burley, now of Williamsport, is the only surviving man who was a resident of
the place when Mr. Wood came here. The town was laid out by John T. Mathias
and was first known as Eagle City, later becoming Tyrone City, and simply
Tyrone when it became a borough. None of the original settlers survive.
     Mr. Wood was married January 8, 1852, to Miss Bedelia Maloy, who died
January 24, 1905. She was a daughter of Patrick F. Maloy, then of
Hollidaysburg. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Wood: William,
Charles A. and E. Frank. William Wood died at the age of sixteen months.
Charles A. Wood, who is now a resident of Redlands, Cal., and was for
twenty-seven years chief clerk in the office of the general superintendent of
the Pennsylvania Railroad at Altoona, moved to California when he retired. He
is a widower and has two children, Catherine M. and Charles Daniel. The
former is the wife of A. J. Mullen, district attorney, residing at Woodstock,
Ill. The latter, a young man of twenty-two years, is a successful fruit grower
and resides at Redlands with his father.  E. Frank Wood, the youngest of the
family, also adopted a railroad career and at the time of his accidental
death, on July 20, 1891, was engineer of a passenger train running between
Lock Haven and Tyrone. He had married and was survived by one son, Charles
Augustus, who later died from the result of a fall, when aged nineteen years.
Mr. Wood's eldest son has been a great traveler and is now a man of
independent fortune, the owner of productive orange groves along the Pacific
coast. Mr. Wood owns a handsome modern residence on Lincoln Avenue, Tyrone,
and has other property.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 897-898.

JOHN WOODCOCK, deceased, the closing years of whose long and useful life were
passed at Altoona, Pa., was born in 1800, at Wilmington, Del., in which city
his grandfather, Bancroft Woodcock, had located when he came to the American
colonies, and where Isaac Woodcock, father of John, married and lived for
several years. The family is an old one in Lancashire, England, where it is
still numerously represented, some of the descendants bearing titles.
     When five years of age, John Woodcock was taken by his father to Bedford
County, Pa. It is difficult to believe that the family at that time was unduly
prosperous for the reason that Isaac Woodcock was not an agriculturist, on the
other hand being a man with artistic tastes and skilled in the manipulation of
delicate tools vastly removed from the homely plough, hoe and scythe of the
farmer. He was a jeweler and silversmith and it would seem that in the
mountainous region in which he first settled, where Indians were most
frequent visitors, there could have been little demand for the products of
his cunning fingers. However he remained there and evidently made a fair
subsistence for he continued to work at his trade, in which he retained a
marvelous skill into old age. His grandson prizes some specimens of it
executed when he was seventy-two years old, consisting of a set of silver
spoons made out of silver dollars furnished him by his son John.
     John Woodcock resided in Bedford County until he was thirty years of
age, becoming a tanner as well as a farmer, and then removed to Wells Valley,
in Fulton County, where he lived for thirty-five years.  He was a man of more
than usual value to his community, one of superior understanding and of
exemplary life.  Foremost among his neighbors, he was frequently elected to
positions of trust and responsibility by them and this confidence was never
betrayed.  He married Miss Sarah Alexander, who was born in Fulton County,
Pa., and died in 1850, when aged but thirty-five years, leaving seven
children, one of whom, William L., is one of Blair County's most prominent
attorneys and best known citizens.  John Woodcock was identified with the
Republican party.  He was an earnest member and unusually liberal supporter
of the Methodist Episcopal church, being a class leader for forty years.  His
death occurred at Altoona in 1874, when aged seventy-four years.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 570-573.

WILLIAM L. WOODCOCK, a prominent representative of the Altoona bar, has been
engaged in practice in this city for forty-four years and during this long
period has gained and maintained an eminent position. He is also largely
interested in the coal industry and in financial and other institutions. Mr.
Woodcock was born on his father's farm in Wells Valley, Fulton County, Pa.,
October 20, 1844, and is a son of John and Sarah (Alexander) Woodcock.
     The Woodcock family came from England to America as early as 1764. The
grandfather settled in Delaware and there the father of William L. Woodcock
was born in 1800, but from the age of five years was reared in Bedford
County, Pa. From there in middle life he moved to Fulton County and in
advanced age retired to Altoona, where he died in 1874. He was a man of
sterling character, served in local offices with efficiency, was a justice of
the peace for a protracted period and was a liberal supporter of the Methodist
Episcopal church. His wife was Sarah Alexander, a woman of beauty and amiability, 
who was called from his side by death when aged but thirty-five years.
     William L. Woodcock was educated in institutions which, in his youth,
ranked with the best in his part of the state - Martinsburg Academy and
Allegheny Seminary. His older brother, the late Samuel M. Woodcock, was
already a successful practitioner of law at Altoona, and under his
supervision William L. Woodcock prepared for the bar and was admitted to
practice in Blair County, October 27, 1865. Prior to accepting law business,
Mr. Woodcock taught school for a time and during one term was principal of
the Phillipsburg High School, in Center County. He had also testified to the
genuineness of his courage and patriotism prior to this time, by twenty-three
months of service in Co. F, 77th Pa. Vol. Inf., in the Civil War, the latter
part of this service being in the Signal Corps, where he ranked as
lieutenant. He was discharged on account of disability.
     Mr. Woodcock in a legitimate business way, has acquired a large amount
of valuable realty both in Altoona and in Hollidaysburg and also has coal
interests of more than average importance. Aside from his prominence in his
profession, however, and his standing as a capitalist, Mr. Woodcock is widely
known, admired and esteemed on account of his philanthropic and uplift work.
He is what may be best described as a practical Christian and while his
efforts were commenced in connection with his interest in the work of the
Methodist Episcopal church, they have expanded into other avenues of good
will, beneficence and benevolence and his influence cannot be overestimated.
Mr. Woodcock has proven himself a model Sunday school superintendent and to
this work has given his enthusiasm, his time and his capital for forty years,
having served as superintendent most of that time. He organized a mission
Sunday school in 1889 and built, of his own private means, Belnore Hall, in
which to hold the school. The city knows the result of his concentrated
effort in Altoona, but of the individual benefits of this mission work, the
public has never learned one half. He remained with this school as
superintendent for ten years, during which time it steadily grew until its
average attendance was over 300, and the Walnut Avenue Methodist Episcopal
Church is the result of his work in this mission school. At the expiration of
his decade of work, Mr. Woodcock declined to accept its superintendency any
longer, the school having become a strong and vigorous organization.
     In 1899, Mr. Woodcock was elected superintendent of the First Methodist
Episcopal Sunday school of Altoona and has remained in that position until
the present time and has succeeded in bringing the school up until it now
numbers over 1,400 pupils. He has been superintendent of Sunday schools for
forty years, during which period he has spent much of his time and energy in
this direction, believing that it is the greatest work that presents itself
to laymen in the field of Christian activity. Besides his practical work in
the Altoona schools, he contributes to a number of Sunday school papers and
magazines, his efforts always being sought after as they are the expressions
of an earnest man who, through experience, is well qualified to write along
these lines. His liberality has extended the cause of missions, educational
institutions and church enterprises. It was stated at the dedication of the
First Methodist Church of Altoona, in 1907, that his liberal and timely
giving made it possible to construct that magnificent church edifice, "the
finest Methodist church in Central Pennsylvania."
     At one time, Mr. Woodcock had a large and lucrative practice at the bar,
but of recent years he has had so many other matters to engage his time and
attention that he is gradually retiring from the active practice of the law.
He resides in Hollidaysburg but retains his business offices in the Central
Trust Building, Altoona, devoting his time mainly to the management of his
large real estate interests, his charities and his church and literary work.
Although identified with the Republican party he has never taken an active
part in politics, finding other matters more to his liking, and moreover, he
has been too busy a man to be a politician. He has, however, been honored by
being twice elected to the General Conference, which is the law-making body
of the Methodist Episcopal church. Its meetings assemble every four years and
the sessions continue one full month. Mr. Woodcock is a trustee of the
American University at Washington, D. C., to which he has contributed largely
of his means, and he is also a trustee of Dickinson College, Pa.
     Mr. Woodcock has also been an extensive traveler, having journeyed
through every state in the Union, the Islands of the Caribbean Sea and many
countries in Europe. He has been abroad twice and during this last visit
witnessed the "Passion Play" at Oberammergau. Since his return he has given
several lectures on this marvelous production.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 737-741

JAMES CLEMENT WRAY, who has been engaged in the practice of law at Altoona,
Pa., since 1903, was born in December, 1877, at Bellwood, Blair County, Pa.
The days of his youth were spent in this county, and after completing the
elementary course in the common schools, graduated with the class of 1899
from the Washington-Jefferson College, of Washington, Pa. His knowledge of
the legal profession was obtained at the University of Pennsylvania, from
which he received a diploma for the practice of law in 1902. That same year
he was admitted to the bar of Philadelphia County, Pa., and in 1903 became a
member of the Blair County Bar, after which he immediately became associated
with D. E. North in the practice of law at Altoona, Pa. He has since been
located here in the practice of his profession and is held in high esteem for
his legal ability and business qualifications. He is a member of the Blair
County Bar Association and is fraternally a Mason and an Elk.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 930.

WILLIAM HENRY WYERMAN, a well known citizen of Allegheny Township, Blair
County, Pa., has resided on his farm of sixty-eight acres, situated near
Duncansville, for about twenty years, and was born in this township, July 18,
1857. His parents were John and Mary B. (Balheimer) Wyerman.
     Both parents of Mr. Wyerman were born in Germany and came to America as
young people. After their marriage they settled permanently in Allegheny
Township, Blair County, where they followed an agricultural life and became
well known and respected residents. The father was a Democrat in politics and
for several years prior to his death was a member of the Lutheran church. Of
the children born to John and Mary B. Wyerman, five survive, namely:
Catherine, who is the widow of John Turnbaugh, of Allegheny Township; George
W., who lives in Iowa; Caroline E., who is the wife of E. M. Clapper, of
Allegheny Township; William Henry; and David A., who is a resident of Logan
Township.
     William Henry Wyerman grew to manhood in Allegheny Township, where he
has always lived. After he was eighteen years of age he worked for himself at
public works about seventeen years and then worked as a farmer, and in the
course of years became possessed of the excellent farm on which he carries on
dairying in addition to general farming. Mr. Wyerman married Miss Mary E.
Caltabaugh, a daughter of the late Charles Caltabaugh, of Allegheny Township,
and they have had nine children born to them: Maud E., Albert R., Luther E.,
Olive R., Harold R., Mildred G., Charles L., Paul K., and one who is
deceased. Mr. Wyerman and wife are members of the Lutheran church of
Duncansville, in which he was formerly a deacon. In politics he is a Democrat.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 636.

I. F. YEATER, D.O.S., who enjoys a large practice as an osteopathic physician
and surgeon, maintains his office at No. 1213 Eighth Avenue, Altoona, Pa., of
which city he has been a resident since the fall of 1892.  He was born in
Huntingdon County, Pa., in 1864.
     Dr. Yeater was reared on the home farm and assisted his father until he
reached man's estate, in the meanwhile securing a good education in the
country schools and the High School at Orbison. His natural inclination was
in the direction of a professional life but circumstances were not favorable
in his early manhood and he therefor applied himself to learning the
carpenter and house building trades, which he followed some four years. He
then entered the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as a car builder
and continued in that line for ten years. When he severed this connection he
decided to gratify the ambition of his younger years and with this end in
view he entered the Philadelphia College of Osteopathy, at Philadelphia, and
was graduated president of his class in 1907, and in the same year was
graduated from the Philadelphia School of Anatomy, under the celebrated Dr.
Fritz. He came at once to Altoona and has found a ready field of work here,
each year bringing more people to a realization of the practical benefits of
his system of healing. He is a member of the Pennsylvania State Osteopathic
Association and the American Osteopathic Association, the leading
organizations of Osteopathy.
     In 1903, Dr. Yeater was married to Miss Clara B. Hammond, of Franklin
County, Pa. They are members of the Third Presbyterian Church and Dr. Yeater
is a member of the board of deacons. He has been identified with this
religious body since he was twenty years of age. He is a member of Mountain
Lodge, F. & A. M., of the P. O. S. of A., of the Heptasophs and of the Modern
Woodmen of America.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 717-718.

WILLIAM YECKLEY, proprietor of the Duncansville Feed Mill, at Duncansville,
Pa., was engaged, prior to 1909, in agricultural pursuits in Juniata
Township, Blair County, where he owns a fine farm of 160 acres. He was born
at Julia Ann Furnace, Pa., February 21, 1866, and is a son of Christian and
Catherine (Caltabaugh) Yeckley, both of whom were natives of Germany, who
came at maturity to America.
     William Yeckley was about two years old when his parents moved to
Osceola, Pa., and was in his seventh year when they moved to Juniata
Township, in Blair County, where he grew to man's estate, and occasionally
attended the public schools. Until he retired from the farm and opened up his
business at Duncansville, he was one of the leading agriculturists of his
section, and one of the most prominent in all movements concerned in the
advancement of agricultural conditions. He continues his membership with
Poplar Run Grange, No. 1137, Patrons of Husbandry, in Freedom Township, and
was master of the same for two years, and a son and two daughters are also
members. He was one of the organizers of this body, and consistently showed
his sincere interest in its progress for a number of years.
     On September 29, 1887, Mr. Yeckley was married to Miss Sarah Leighty, a
native of Juniata Township, and a daughter of David M. and Catherine
(Stiffler) Leighty, and a granddaughter of Jacob Leighty, who was a native of
Germany, and was one of the first settlers in Juniata Township. David M.
Leighty and wife are among the best known residents of Newry, Pa. Of their
children the following survive: Harvey B., residing at Newry; David A. and
Lloyd, both also of Newry; Elizabeth, wife of William Buckle, of Newry; Ida
M., wife of Irvin Oldham, of Portage, Pa.; Ella M., wife of Washington
Weaver, of Newry; and Sarah, wife of William Yeckley.
     Mr. and Mrs. Yeckley have the following children: Elmer R., Maud C.,
Edna G., Frank A., Roy I., David C., Mary E., Ruth G. and Wilmer D. Mrs.
Yeckley is a member of the Lutheran church at Newry, having been reared in
the same, and Mr. Yeckley is also a member and one of the deacons. In
politics he is a Democrat and while living in the country served four years
as tax collector of Juniata Township. Although his business at Duncansville
is yet in its youth, he is so well and favorably known to his fellow citizens
and particularly to those from whom his largest amount of patronage would
come, that there is no doubt of his prospering.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 682.

MARTIN M. YINGLING, senior member of the firm of M. M. Yingling & Son,
manufacturers of roller flour and dealers in feed of all kinds at Claysburg,
Blair County, Pa., is an enterprising and prosperous business man and a
highly regarded citizen. For over a quarter of a century he has been
proprietor of the Sarah Mills, located in Greenfield Township, near Sarah
Furnace. Mr. Yingling was born September 25, 1840, in Huntingdon County, Pa.,
and is a son of Isaac and Eliza (Condron) Yingling.
     Abram Yingling, the paternal grandfather, was born in Maryland and in
boyhood accompanied his parents to what is now Blair County, locating near
Roaring Spring, where the great-grandfather operated a mill for a man by the
name of Neff. This mill was later burned by the Indians. Abram Yingling
subsequently engaged in milling near McKee, in Blair County, and died there.
     Isaac Yingling, father of Martin M., was born in a section of Huntingdon
County that is now a part of Blair County, but later moved to Blair County and
located near Williamsburg and there carried on a milling business for more
than twenty-five years. He was a man of high standing in his community and
served four terms in the office of justice of the peace at Williamsburg. He
identified himself with the Republican party and gave it his political
support as long as he participated in public affairs. In his religious faith
he was a Lutheran. Of his children there are six survivors, as follows: James
A., residing at Martinsburg; Martin M.; Sarah, wife of Jacob Condron, residing
at Williamsburg; Benjamin F., living in Huntingdon County; and Isaac, who is
in business at Johnstown, Pa.
     Martin M. Yingling was reared until seven years of age in Huntingdon
County, near Vineyard Mills, and then accompanied his parents to Pennsylvania
Furnace, and when fourteen, to Williamsburg, where he obtained the larger part
of his schooling. He learned the milling business with his father and remained
with him until he was twenty-three years of age when he took charge of a grist
mill at Spring Meadow, in Bedford County, where he continued in that capacity
for eleven years. >From there he went to Shellsburg, in Bedford County, and
was manager of a mill there for several years, moving then to Sherbourn in
Fayette County, where he again managed a mill for some years. Mr. Yingling by
this time had become well known as a reliable and experienced miller and
subsequently entered the employ of the B. M. Johnson Company, a Hollidaysburg
concern, which was engaged in the flour business at Alexandria, Huntingdon
County, and for two years attended to the shipping of flour cars from that
point. Prior to becoming proprietor of the Sarah Mills, over a quarter of a
century ago, he also was manager for several years of the Mowery Mills in
Bedford County. Mr. Yingling's mills are equipped with the latest improved
machinery, the roller system being installed, and he uses both water and
steam power.
     In February, 1863, Mr. Yingling was married to Miss Susan Moore who was
born in Blair County, Pa., a daughter of John W. and Mary Moore, former
residents of Williamsburg. Mr. Moore was a native of Massachusetts and was a
cooper by trade. A family of ten children was born to Mr. and Mrs. Yingling,
of whom the following survive: Alonzo, who resides at Altoona; William W.,
who lives in Greenfield Township and is the junior member of the firm of M.
M. Yingling & Son; Myrtle, who is the wife of Allen Feather, of Duncansville;
May, who is the wife of Edward Sheafer, of Bedford County; Ross, who lives in
Greenfield Township; Angus, who is a resident of Altoona, Pa.; and Wallace B.
The latter served with the U. S. Army in the Philippine Islands and is still
in the regular army, at present being stationed at Fort Ben Harrison, in
Indiana. Mr. Yingling has reared a creditable family. He is a member of the
Methodist Episcopal church. In politics he is a Republican and he has served
Greenfield Township in the offices of auditor and school director.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 580-581.

MICHAEL ALVIN YOUNG, a prominent member of the legal profession of Hollidaysburg, 
Pa., has been a resident of this borough since 1879, and was born November 18, 1854, 
at East Sharpsburg, Pa., a son of George B. and Mary Young.
     Balser Young, grandfather of our subject, was born on the Atlantic
Ocean, while his parents were crossing from Holland. He was reared in what is
now known as North Woodbury Township, Blair County, Pa., and there followed
farming during his later life. His son, George B. Young, was one of the
younger children born to Balser Young, and was a native of Blair County,
where he spent his entire life, and died in 1905, at East Freedom, at the age
of seventy-seven years. Early in life he learned the carpenter trade, and with
the exception of the time spent in the army, followed the same throughout his
entire active career. He was a member of Co. I, 137th Pa. Vol. Inf. His wife,
Mary Young, also came of one of the pioneer families of Blair County, her
parents having come here from Holland. She died in 1900, aged seventy years.
To George B. Young and his wife three children were born; Michael A.;
Lillian, who married William Dickey; and Lincoln.
     Michael A. Young was fifteen years of age when his parents removed from
Sharpsburg, Pa., to Freedom, Blair County, Pa. He attended the Juniata
Collegiate Institute at Martinsburg, and the Cumberland Valley State Normal,
afterwards teaching for five winters. During his early manhood he learned the
carpenter's trade with his father, but later spent two years reading law in
the office of W. I. Woodcock of Hollidaysburg, and was admitted to the Blair
County Bar in 1880. He has since been continuously and successfully engaged
in the practice of his profession at Hollidaysburg, and is one of the leading
business men of that borough.
     Mr. Young was married to Miss Anna M. Good, a daughter of Peter Good,
deceased, and of their union have been born the following children: Chester
W., who is a student at the Hahnneman Medical College at Philadelphia, Pa.;
and Marilla, Mary, Norman G., and Ralph A. In politics Mr. Young is a Republican.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, p. 534.


CHARLES W. ZOOK, postmaster at Roaring Spring, Pa., and one of Blair County's
most respected citizens, is a survivor of the great Civil War, in which he
bore an honorable part and made sacrifices which should entitle him to the
respectful consideration of his fellow citizens as long as he lives. Mr. Zook
was born in Bedford County, Pa., June 3, 1844, and is a son of Elias and Mary
A. (Pote) Zook, and a grandson of Samuel Zook, who moved from Franklin County
to Bedford County at an early date.
     Charles W. Zook had few advantages in his youth and from an early age
had his own way to make in the world. In boyhood he applied himself to his
books whenever opportunity presented and thus acquired enough knowledge to
teach school. When the Civil War was precipitated he immediately decided to
enter the army as a soldier, and in August, 1861, was enrolled as a member of
Co. E., 8th Pa. Res., which became a part of the Army of the Potomac, 5th Army
Corps, which was commanded by General Meade and later, General Reynolds. He
soon saw hard service, being on the field of battle in the seven days' siege
before Richmond, under General McClelland; in the second battle of Bull Run;
and at South Mountain, Antietam and Fredericksburg, and it was at the latter
place that he was seriously wounded, December 13, 1862. This resulted in the
necessary amputation of his right foot. After his honorable discharge, and as
soon as he was able to travel, he returned home. His first position afterward
was that of a clerk in the Altoona post office, under Postmaster George W.
Patton, and after retiring from that position he was in business for a number
of years at Baker's Summit, in Bedford County, where he was also postmaster
until 1881. From there he moved to Woodbury, but shortly afterward, in the
spring of 1882, came to Roaring Spring. For five years he was employed as a
bookkeeper in the Roaring Spring Blank Book Company. In 1899 he, was
appointed postmaster at Roaring Spring and is a very popular official. He
carries on a jewelry and watch repairing business as an occupation, and has
always stood high in the regard of his fellow citizens as to business integrity.
     Mr. Zook married Miss Sarah J. Harker, of Bedford County, and they have
five children: Warren E., Annie L., Mary M., John H. and Martha.  Mary M. is
the wife of Franklin K. Lorenz, of Roaring spring.  Martha is the wife of Leo
Garber, who is agent for the Pa. Railroad Company at Roaring spring.  Mr. Zook
and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.  Wherever he has lived
he has been an active and useful citizen, and served as a justice of the peace
in Middle Woodbury and Bloomfield Townships, Bedford County, and also was on
the school board there, and for a number of years since coming to Roaring
spring has been a member of the borough school board, and has acted as board
secretary.  He is a valued member of Lieut. H. N. Lower Post, No. 82, G. A.
R., at Roaring spring, of which he has been commander a number of times.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 609-610.


REV. FREDERICK R. ZOOK, of the Church of the Brethren, is a highly regarded
minister in this body, and a respected citizen of North Woodbury Township,
living near Martinsburg, Pa. He was born in North Woodbury Township, Blair
County, Pa., November. 10, 1870, and is a son of John H. and Hannah (Fishel) Zook.
     John H. Zook and wife were both born in Pennsylvania, he, in Blair
County and she in Bedford County. They now reside at Curryville, Pa. The
Zooks came originally from Switzerland, the earliest one to settle in what is
now Blair County being John Zook, a pioneer blacksmith. His son, Frederick
Zook, was the grandfather of Rev. Frederick R. Zook. The brothers and sisters
of the latter are: Irvin F., residing at Curryville. Pa.; Annie, wife of
Reuben Quarry, of Martinsburg; Sadie, living at Curryville, and Simon F. and
Mary, also residents of Curryville. The parents of the above family are
members of the Church of the Brethren. In politics John H. Zook is a Republican.
     Frederick R. Zook obtained a public school education in North Woodbury
Township, and afterward assisted his father on the home farm until he entered
the Pa. Railroad shops at Altoona, where he was employed for five years. Mr.
Zook owns a finely cultivated farm of twenty-four acres, and is a member of
the well known firm of Zook & Seedenburg, threshers, who do a large amount of
business in this section every season. Since 1905 Mr. Zook has been an
accepted minister in the Church of the Brethren and in this relation is
esteemed and beloved.
     Mr. Zook married Miss Annie Seedenburg, a daughter of George Seedenburg,
of North Woodbury Township, and they have five children: Martha G., Elizabeth,
Paul, Esther and Larue. Although a good citizen and ever lending his influence
in the support of good government, Rev. Zook, on account of his religious
beliefs, takes no active part in politics.

Sell, Jesse C., Twentieth Century History of Altoona and Blair County,
Pennsylvania, and Representative Citizens, Chicago, IL: Richmond-Arnold,
1911, pp. 545-546.