Columbia County PA Archives History.....BATTLE, 1887: CHAPTER 16: History of Catawissa and Franklin Townships
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  CHAPTER XVI. - Catawissa Township     Franklin Township
  
  270
  
  CATAWISSA TOWNSHIP
  
          	CATAWISSA was formed from Augusta in 1785, and originally covered the
  triangular area now embraced in the townships of Beaver, Conyngham
  Franklin, Locust, Maine Mifflin, Mayberry, in Montour county, and part of
  Union, in Schuylkill. Practically, it has been reduced to its present limits by
  the formation of Roaringcreek in 1832, Franklin in 1843, and Maine in 1844.
  It is the oldest political subdivision of the county, having completed the first
  century of its history.
       Authorities differ as to the nationality of the aboriginal tribe which con-
  ferred upon the mountain, creek and town their beautiful and euphonious
  designation. Redmond Conyngham, who has extended his researches into
  everything relating to the primitive history of the region, states that "The
  Piscatawese, or Gangawese, or Conoys had a wigwam on the Catawese, at Cata
  wese, now Catawissa." Stewart Pearce asserts that the Shawanese, after suc-
  cessive immigrations from New York to Florida, from there to Wabash,
  and from that region to the Susquehanna valley, established a village at Cata-
  wissa in 1697, or about that time. The orthography of the word affords no
  additional light on the subject. Catawese occurs in the different dialects of
  the Shawanese and Delawares, and always with the same meaning,"pure
  water."
       The first Europeans who visited Catawissa were not interest in attempt-
  ing to dissipate the obscurity which involved its primitive history. James Le
  Tort, and adventurous Indian trader, found the valley of the Susquehanna a
  profitable field for his operations. The provincial authorities frequently
  employed him on diplomatic missions to chiefs of the various tribes. In 1728
  he bore the governorıs compliments to the celebrated Madame Montour and
  several Delaware chieftains, presenting to each a ³strowd match coat² as an
  expression of continued friendship. The communication in which Le Tort
  acquainted the executive council with the views of the chiefs, though throwing
  no light upon local affairs, still possesses special interest, inasmuch as it con-
  tains the first mention of any part of Columbia county. It is herewith
  inserted:
  
  CATAWASSE, May ye 12, 1728.                                        
      We always thought the governor know nothing of the fight between the Shawaynoa
  and the White People. We desire the governor to warn the back Inhabts Not to be so
  ready to attack the Indians, as we are Doubtful they were in that unhappy accedent, and
  we will use all Endeavaurs to hender and Such Like Proceeding on the part of the
  Indians. We Remember very well the League between William Pen and the Indians
  which was, that the Indians and white people were one, and hopes that his Brother, the
  present Governor, is of the same mind, and that the friendship was to continue for three
  Generations; and if the Indians hurt the English, or the English hurt the Indians, itts the
  same as if they hurt themselves: as to Governors Desire of meeting him, we Intend
  as soon as the Chiefs of the Five Nations Come to meet the governor, we will Come with
  them: but if the come not before hereafter, we will to Philadelphia to wain on the Gov-
  ernor. We have heard that William Pen Son was come to Philada., which We was very
  Glad of.
  
  JAMES LE TORT.                                     
  
  273     
       After the visit of the French leader, the place is not again referred to un-
  til 1754, when Conrad Weiser, in a letter from Shamokin, mentions Oskohary,
  supposed to be identical with the Catwasse of Le Tort, and the Catawissa of
  the present. Lapackpitton, a Delaware chief who figured prominently in the
  settlement of disputes at the close of the French war, made his residence at
  the village, which was known for some time by his name. Local tradition as-
  signs to this dusky warrior the character of "Hunkee Punkee," in J. W. Adlerıs
  "Indian Legend." It appears that Minnetunkee, his daughter, was disposed
  to encourage the advances of a lover whose prospective position as a member
  of the family was not received with complacency by her father. On a summer
  evening he followed them to the summit of an eminence known as "Lovers
  Leap," and announced his presence in a manner characteristic of Indian nature.
  The younger brave, mortally wounded by an arrow, fell over the precipice.
  The splash of the river as the body parted its waters had scarcely subsided
  when the maiden, with a cry expressive of defiance, triumph and despair,
  threw herself from the dizzy height, and followed her lover to a watery grave.
  the sequel harmonizes with generally recognized ideas of the succession of
  events. The whole tribe removed from a locality rendered to them intolerably
  sad by this tragic occurrence.
       The region of "pure water" did not long remain unoccupied. A number
  of English Quakers from Maiden Creek and Exeter, in Berks county, planted
  their homes in the Catawissa valley. Following the route generally traveled from
  Reading to Sunbury, and the valley of the "North Branch" from that point,
  they finally reached their destination after days of exhausting labor, and nights
  of weariness and insecurity. The natural advantages of the locality had been
  early recognized by land-jobbers and others who preferred to be proprietors
  without being residents. Among those who succeeded the their titles, or estab-
  lished claims as warrantees were William Collins, William Hughes, James
  Watson, John Lore, John Mears, Isaiah Willits and John Lloyd. It was
  between 1774 and 1778 when these persons arrived. Moses Roberts in 1774 built
  the first house in the vicinity of Catwissa.
       Subsequent additions to their number represented a different nationality.
  Some were Germans, but a few were English. They journeyed on horseback
  and followed and Indian trail over the Broad, Blue, Locust and Little moun-
  tains. Among those who reached Catawissa in 1782 were Michael Geiger,
  Joseph McIntyre, John Furry, Thomas Wilkinson, George Huntizinger and
  Conrad Wamphole. About this time a party of Indians re-established a wig-
  wam at the old site of Lapackpittonıs town, greatly to the annoyance of the
  settlers. Thomas Wilkinson incurred their displeasure by interfering with
  their fishing operations, and on one occasion was compelled to seek shelter in
  the river. He was unable to swim, but waded out into the channel where the
  depth was sufficient to cover him. He was obliged to raise his head above the
  water in order to breathe, and whenever he did so, became a target for several
  practiced Indians who had taken a commanding position on the bluff. Al-
  though thus subject to the greatest danger he reached the opposite shore in
  safety, much to the chagrin of his foes, who thenceforth believed that he bore a
  charmed life. His explanation to the effect that he was only "gauging the
  water," created some merriment over the incident, and secure for him the
  name of "Tom Gauger."
       Another occurrence was more tragic and less jocose in its details and re-
  sults. July 26, 1782, a party of Indians made a descent upon the German
  settlement, the exposed condition of which invited attack. John Furry had
  settled on the west side of the river. His family consisted of two daughters
  
  274
  and four sons. The three older sons, John, Jonas and Lawrence, were absent,
  having gone for flour to the mill at Sunbury. On their return they found their
  parents and sisters killed and scalped. Their mangled remains were interred
  under an apple tree near the house. The brothers buried their household
  goods and farming implements in the ground and returned to Reading. The
  panic seeded contagious, for several other families became alarmed and fol-
  them. The sequel of this story would seem to verify the old adage that
  ³Truth is stranger than fiction.² Years afterward Jonas and Lawrence Furry
  were in Montreal, and there formed the acquaintance of Henry Furry, a pros-
  perous trader. The similarity of names was once noticed. Mutual ex-
  planations followed: his identity as their brother was readily established.
  He described to them the tragic death of their parents and sisters and the
  brutal treatment he had received on the journey with his captors to Tioga. At
  that place he was ransomed by a Frenchman, and treated by him with kind-
  ness and consideration.
       Notwithstanding the general the Quakers remained, and in 1787
  William Hughes laid out the town of "Hughesburg, alias Catawissey, in the
  county of Northumberland, state of Pennsylvania, North America," on the
  "bank of the north-east tract of the river Susquehanna near the mouth of the
  Catawessey creek, about twenty miles above Sunbury and about one-hundred
  and six miles from Philadelphia." William Gray and John Sene were the sur-
  veyors. Water, Front, Second, Third and Fourth streets extend east and west,
  parallel with the course of the river; Lumber, south, Main and Pine cross
  these, and are named in order from the creek. The proprietor provided that
  lots were to be disposed of by lottery, and this seems to have been customary, in
  order to prevent partiality. It does not appear that this was done, for in 1789
  John Mears secured titles to sixty-five lots, and became virtual proprietor. It
  is well authenticated that William Henry, by virtue of his warrant for its sur-
  vey in 1769, was the original owner of the tract in which the town plot was em-
  aced; but Edward and Joseph Shippen were the patentees, and from them
  the title was transferred to Hughes. In 1796 James Watson laid out
  "Roberts addition," extending Second, Third and Fourth streets, and opening
  Walnut and North, parallel with Pine.
       The size of the town plot was then considerably in advance of its pop-
  ulation or business interests, although the latter were of considerable local im-
  portance. In 1780 Isaiah Wilits established a tannery at the corner of Third
  and South streets. Knappenberger and Wilits were proprietors of a ferry,
  and landed their flat where the bridge approaches have since been constructed.
  George Hughes and William Mears were justices of the peace. The Watsons,
  Jacksons, Lounts, Lloyds and Hayhursts were familiar to the whole community
  as substantial, hospitable farmers. In 1774 the first mill in the county was
  built on the site of the Paxton mill on Catawissa creek. It was a primitive
  structure and was frequently out of repair; at such time Sunbury was the
  nearest million point. In 1789 Jonathan Shoemaker built a grist mill on the
  north side of this stream. This was then the only mill in a radius of many miles
  and at once received an extensive patronage. In 1799 Christian Brobst erected
  a second and larger mill a short distance above Shoemakerıs. It was com-
  pleted in 1801, and when a boat began to ply regularly between points on
  both branches of the Susquehanna, Catawissa became an important and well
  known point.
       Another circumstance to which this may be attributed was the existence
  there of a store, one of the first between Sunbury and Wyoming. Isaiah Hughes
  was proprietor. The building occupied by him is still standing on the river
  
  275     
  bank at the foot of South street. The second merchant was Joseph Heister,
  whose store was located on Water street several doors below Main. John
  Clark was its second proprietor. He was a man of courage and determination
  as may be inferred from the following incident: He was making a journey to
  Philadelphia on horseback to make his usual purchase of goods when a robber
  seized the bridle of his horse and summarily demanded his money. The mer-
  chant was unarmed, but his ready wit was equal to the occasion. He drew a
  spectacle case from his pocket and opened it. In the darkness the sharp click
  of the lid produced the desired effect. The horse plunged forward while the
  highwayman was both deceived and nonplused.
       At this period the shad fishery was of considerable local importance. Salt
  was brought from reading and exchanged for fish which sold for six cents
  apiece. The circulating medium was extremely scarce, a result of which was
  that nearly all business was transacted by barter. New stores were opened at
  irregular intervals, as the growth of population or enterprise of the proprietors
  justified it. Among those who will be remembered as merchants during the
  early history of the town are Thomas Ellis, Stephen and Christopher Baldy,
  David Cleaver, Jacob Dyer and Samuel Brobst. In all of their stores there
  was an assortment of every variety of merchandise--dry goods, groceries, hard-
  ware, drugs, etc.
       The importance of a bridge across the Susquehanna was realized by public
  spirited citizens at an early period. The original projectors were Christian
  Brobst, Joseph Paxton, Leonard Rupert, Philip Marling, William Baird,
  Isaiah N. Wilits and Richard Dennett, of Columbia county; Cadwallader Evans
  and Samuel Wetherill of Philadelphia; J. K. Boyer, Lewis Reece and Gabriel
  Heister, of Berks county; James Linton and Daniel Seager, of Lehigh; Daniel
  Graff and James McFarlin, of Schuylkill, and Samuel Baird, of Montgomery.
  The site at first proposed was the present crossing of the Catawissa railroad.
  March 15, 1816, the legislature passed an act authorizing the opening of books
  to receive subscriptions. It does not appear that flattering progress was made
  in organizing the company for eight years later. Thirteen additional commis-
  sioners were appointed for that purpose, among whom Columbia county was
  represented by David Cleaver, William McKelvy, John Barton, William
  Miers, Jacob Rupert, James C. Sproul and John Derr.
       With the citizens of the county, the success of the project was a matterof
  primary importance; the only bridge within its limits crossed the river at Ber-
  wick, a point where it failed to confer material benefit on the large proportions
  of the population south of the river. Although disappointed for twelve years,
  those most interested at Catawissa continued to present this consideration with
  unabated persistence, and finally, in 1828, secured an appropriation of five-
  thousand dollars from the treasury of the state. Half of this was to be paid
  when the abutments and piers had been constructed, and the remainder when
  the entire work had been completed; but no part could be secured until ten-
  thousand dollars had been paid by individuals, and an amount additional sub-
  scribed sufficient to finish the bridge. George Taylor and Jacob Alter, of
  Philadelphia; Philip and John Rebsome, of Muncy; George Keim, George
  Getz and Henry Foster, Of Berks, county; John C. Appelman and Samuel
  Brooke, of Schuylkill; Benjamin Beaver, Peter Schmick, George H. Willits,
  Stacy Margerum, John Barton and william McKelvy, of Columbia, were
  appointed to reorganize the company and establish its finances on a firm basis.
  The North Branch canal was at this time in course of construction; it was
  plainly apparent that the bridge was a necessity if Catawissa was to derive
  any benefit from that line of traffic, and this consideration induced many to
  
  276
  subscribe to the stock of the company. The bridge was finally completed at
  a cost of twenty-six-thousand dollars, and opened for travel January 15, 1883.
  In view of the inconvenience of reaching the county-seat (then at Danville),
  it was not built, as originally proposed, to the mouth of Fishing creek. Sub-
  sequently the stock in the bridge held by the state was sold, and proceeds
  applied to the construction of a public road on the berme side of the canal
  between Rupert and the bridge approach on the north side of the river.
       The bridge has repeatedly suffered from the freshets and ice floods which
  periodically threaten life and property in the Susquehanna valley. In 1846
  five spans were destroyed; they were rebuilt the following year. March 17,
  1875, the entire structure was swept away. A Howe truss, thirty feet above low
  water mark, was constructed the same summer on the piers of its predecessor.
  It was opened fro travel November 22, 1875.
       The slowness and vacillation which characterized the bridge scheme did
  not prevent Christian Brobst from planning an enterprise, the future develop-
  ment of which he scarcely comprehended. He conceived the idea of a rail-
  road from Catawissa to Tamaqua, and in 1825 traversed the distance between
  the two points on foot, studied the topography of the Quakake valley, and
  concluded that the plan was feasible. With Joseph Paxton he interviewed
  prominent capitalists of reading and Philadelphia and interested them inthe
  scheme. He induced several who seemed favorably impressed with the repre-
  sentations to accompany him on horseback over the proposed route. Mon-
  cure Robinson, a civil engineer, was one of the party. March 21, 1831, an
  act was passed by the legislature authorizing Christian Brobst and Joseph
  Paxton, of Catawissa; William McKelvey and Ebenezer Daniel, of Blooms-
  burg, and others and Philadelphia and Reading, to receive subscriptions for
  the stock of the Little Schuykill and Susquehanna Railroad Company. The
  terminal points of the road were to be Catawissa and the Broad mountain
  where the Wilkesbarre state road intersected the Little Schuykill. The
  mountains were to be avoided by traversing the valleys of Mosserıs run and
  Catawissa creek.
       Energetic measures were at once taken to execute these plans. Edward
  Miller, and experienced engineer, surveyed the line. Contracts were issued for
  grading and building bridges. Capital was furnished by the United States
  bank of Philadelphia. With the collapse of that institution, in 1838, and of
  other corporations dependent upon it for financial support, the projectors of
  the railroad were compelled to abandon their enterprise. For fifty years the
  unfinished embankments and bridges reminded unfortunate investors of the
  alluring prospect which prompted their erection.
       March 20, 1849, the original corporation was reorganized under the name
  of the Catawissa, Williamsport and Erie railroad Company. During the
  succeeding five years, the road was finally completed. The first locomotive
  that ever appeared in Catawissa was the ³Massachusetts,² which was brought
  from Philadelphia by canal and transported across the river on a flat. Sunday,
  July 16, 1854, the first passenger train entered the town. William Cable was
  conductor and John Johnson, engineer.
       Unfortunately the new company was not financially prosperous, and in
  pursuance of an order from the supreme court of the state, its property was
  sold; March 21, 1860, its purchasers were constituted the Catawissa Rail-Road
  Company. In November, 1872, the Philadelphia and Reading Rail-Road
  Company became lessees. In 1858 the Lackawanna and Bloomsburg Rail-
  Road became an available line of transportation from Catawissa. In 1870
  a third road, the Danville, Hazelton and Wilkesbarre, was opened through the
  
  277     
  town. The latest acquisition to its commercial facilities was the North and
  West Branch Railway, completed in 1882.
       It is a matter of surprise that extensive manufacturing industries havenot
  been established at a place commanding such advantages. The Penn furnace,
  operated by Fincher and Thomas, and a nail factory conducted by Thomas
  Hartman on a small scale at the time when a laborious and tedious hand pro-
  cess was employed, were formerly of some local importance. The only estab
  lishment of any magnitude that now exists, the Catawissa wood-pulp mill, has
  had an existence of three-quarters of a century. It was established in 1811 by
  Benjamin Sharpless. It appears that he lived near Sunbury, but resolved to
  remove to Ohio and settle there. He visited a brother on his journey and
  found him amassing wealth manufacturing paper. Returning to Catawissa, he
  embarked in a similar business in company with John Clark. The Shoemaker
  mill was purchased, and, with small expenses and trifling alterations, adapted
  to the prospective industry. Raw material became finished fabric after under-
  going a slow and laborious process. The first stage was the reduction of
  straw or rags to pulp; this was removed from the vat with a wire sieve and
  poured over a felt cloth; when a certain number of alternate strata of pulp and
  felt had accumulated, the water was extracted by powerful pressure; the sheets
  were then dried, folded and pressed, when they were ready for the trade. Af-
  ter passing through different hands, the mill has come into possession of Mc-
  Cready Brothers, of Philadelphia. It was completely destroyed by fire in 1882.
  In the structure as rebuilt, the manufacture of wood pulp receives exclusive
  attention. The general management ins entrusted to E. B. Guie, a gentleman
  of extensive business experience and thorough acquaintance with all the details
  of the manufacture.
       The development of the railroad scheme of Christian Brobst and Joseph
  Paxton has been briefly outlined. If the existence of the road is to any extent
  due to the sagacity and persistence of Catawissaıs citizens, it is also true that
  the town has been amply compensated for their efforts. This is rather a coin-
  cidence that the expression of any feelings of gratitude or obligation the rail-
  road or its management might be supposed to have entertained. It had not
  been operated six months until the superintendent found it impossible to move
  the trains south from Catawissa that could be brought to that point from the
  northern terminus of the line. This is due to the altitude at which the moun-
  tain is crossed, the slope of which begins at the Susquehanna. Arrangements
  were therefore made for the general forming of trains at Catawissa, which thus
  became the home of nearly all the operatives employed in the freight service of
  the company. Extensive repair shops were also established there in 1864.
  They have become an important factor in furthering the growth of the town.
       The rapid increase of population in consequence created a tendency among
  property holders to advance rents, and a demand for homes. Two institutions,
  the Catawissa Land and Building company, and the Catawissa Mutual Build-
  ing Fund Association, were organized in 1865 and 1870, respectively, to
  assist their stock-holders to obtain homes. Although their operations have
  been severely criticized, they were, in the main, conducted in the interest of
  the class of persons it was proposed to benefit. A result of their existence
  was a period of considerable building activity, extending from 1869 to 1873.
  The number of dwellings was still inadequate, and in 1882 F. L. Shuman
  purchased the Zarr farm, and laid off "Shumantown." Poplar, Shuman,
  Zarr and Mill streets extend northwest from the creek. Cemetery street
  crosses these at right angles, and is deflected from its course at the cemetery,
  where it intersects the public road. There was an immediate extension of the
  
  278
  town over this addition to its building area. The efforts of citizens in thus
  establishing homes is an earnest of an improved condition of society in every
  respect.
       In 1870 the population of the township was one-thousand, six hundred
  and fourteen; in 1880 it had increased to two-thousand and four, and at that
  time four-fifths of this number were residents of the town. It is estimated
  that a census at the present time would show a population of two-thousand
  five-hundred. Strenuous efforts have been made for years to secure legal en-
  actments for the erection of Catawissa into a borough. Township govern-
  ment is notoriously inadequate. It makes no provision fro police regulations
  of any kind. When this is recognized and judiciously considered, incorpor-
  ation will logically and promptly follow.
       Private enterprise, however, has to some extent supplied this deficiency.
  Sidewalks have been constructed along the principal streets, and lamp-posts,
  erected and supplied at private expense, are found here and there in the town.
  Soon after the laying out of the village a market house was erected, but this
  fell into disuse and became the resort of the village cows and hogs. Thence
  forward it was chiefly noticeable for its fleas, and was generally declared a
  nuisance, though there was sufficient influence to save it from destruction.
  Sometime after 1820 its demolition was determined upon, and one night a
  loud explosion called out the startled inhabitants to find that the market house
  had been blown up. Some fruitless attempts were made to discover and pun-
  ish the perpetrators, but no immediate effort was made to replace the building.
       In 1831 it was proposed to erect a town-hall and market house in Main
  street at the intersection of Third, on the site of the old structure. Discus-
  sion on this proposition became acrimonious and personal; the project was
  defeated, and no attempt to revive it has since been made. A more unfortu-
  nate result of this difference of opinion was the dissolution of the only fire
  company which has existed in the village. The "Catawissa Fire Company"
  was organized May 17, 1827, at Stacy Margerumıs hotel, with Joseph Paxton,
  president, and Ezra S. Hayhurst, secretary. The latter, with Christian Brobst,
  George Hughes, Stephen Baldy, George H. Willits and Jacob Rupert, was
  appointed a committee to "draft and essay of a constitution." Four days later
  the "essay" was adopted and signed by fifty-four persons. Meetings were
  held quarterly at Margerumıs; an assortment of buckets, ladders, hooks and
  chains was secured and distributed so as to be conveniently accessible in an
  emergency. The utmost harmony prevailed until the building of a hall was
  suggested. In February, 1832, after repeated adjournments the organization
  was unceremoniously disbanded.
       The volume of business transacted at Catawissa has been constantly aug-
  mented since 1864. Large general stores have not yet been superseded by
  special and exclusive lines of merchandising. The Catawissa Deposit bank
  (originally incorporated May 26, 1871, as The Catawissa Deposit and Savings
  bank) has been known by its present name since April 12, 1872. It was or-
  ganized in that year with John K. Robbins, president and B. R. Davis, cashier.
  The capital stock is fifty-thousand dollars. The Catawissa Water Company,
  chartered June 29, 1882, is another prominent business feature of the village.
  F. L. Shuman, P. H. Shuman, William H. Rhawn, Gideon E. Meyers and
  Reuben Shuman were the first board of directors. The water is obtained
  from Catawissa creek and distributed to every part of the town.
       Various fraternal and benevolent societies are numerously represented.
  
  279     
  Lieutenant H. H. Hoagland, Post No. 170, Grand Army of the Republic, was
  organized in October 1868, with the following members: M. M. Brobst,
  Samuel Waters, Daniel Walters, John G. Forborg, Thomas Harder, I. W.
  Schmick, George W. Waters, John R. Brobst, and John Reicheldeefer. In
  1876 it was disbanded for want of a quorum. June 16, 1880, a reorganization
  was effected. M. M. Brobst, D. W. Spalding, G. W. Reifsnyder, I. W. Wil-
  lits, John R. Brobst, I. H. Seesholtz, D. W. Walter, John McCoy, J. G. Wa-
  ters, B. B. Schmick, Joseph P. Hause, T. E. Harder, Theodore Fox, John
  Wostine, Joseph Walter, John Getkin, M. V. B. Kline, Thomas F. Harder,
  C. F. Harder, Daniel Gifflin and J. C. Fletcher constituted the membership at
  this time. The Post is in a flourishing condition with encouraging prospects
  of future usefulness.
       Concordia Lodge, No. 50, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, was chartered
  September 24, 1838. The first officers were Owen D. Leib, N. G.; John F.
  Mann, V. G.; Michael Farnsworth, secretary, Joel E. Bradley, assistant, and
  Christian A. Brobst, treasurer. Meetings were held at the house of the latter
  on Main Street until April, 1882, when the Pine street school building was oc-
  cupied. It was purchased the previous year.
       Catawissa Chapter, Holy Royal Arch Masons, No. 178, was instituted Feb-
  ruary 19, 1855 with James D. Strawbridge, H. P.; John K. Robbins, K. and
  J. Boyd McKelvy, S.
       Catawissa Lodge, No. 349, Free and Accepted masons, was granted its
  charter by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania December 5, 1964. Its first
  officers were John Sharpless, W. M. ; W. M. Monroe, S. W., and Walter Scott,
  J. W.
       December 8, 1869, the Catawissa Masonic Association was organized by the
  following persons, members of the chapter and lodge: I. W. Seisholtz, George
  S. Gilbert, M. V. B. Kline, Walter Scott, W. B. Koons, J. B. Knittle, W. H.
  Abbot, C. Ellis, I. Monroe, John K. Robbins, C. B. Brockway and John
  Thomas. A hall was erected in 1870 at a cost of $15,000. The association
  subsequently became involved, financially, , and was obliged to seel its property.
       Catawissa council, No. 96, Order of United American Mechanics, received
  its charter from the state council October 1, 1866. The following persons
  were original members: Simon Raup, Charles Garner, J. Q. A. Brobst, Henry
  S. Geiger, Valentine Metz, Jacob Millard, Nathan Northstein, John Getchey,
  C. P. Reese, Gideon Haldeman, John M. Gordon, Adry Bowers and Charles
  H. Kateer.
       The Catawissa Silver Cornet Band Association became a corporate body
  April 7, 1869. The names of Monroe Seitzinger, Jeremiah S. Cornelius,
  Allen J. Brandt, Emery Getchey, Charles Schmick, Perry Walters, A. Z.
  Lewis, J. M. Walsham, Luther Eyer and F. D. Beringer appear in the list
  of its first members.
       Washington Camp, No. 132, Patriotic Order of Sons of America, was organ-
  ized April 3, 1870, with the following members: W. H. Inhoff, Jacob Cool, J.
  K. Rhawn, Harry Yeager, Charles H. Bibby, Samuel H. Young, C. P. Pfah-
  ler, C. D. Hart, George L. Kostenbauder, W. K. Russel, P. A. Brown,
  Thomas E. Harder, Dennis Waters, William F. Bibby, Jacob Morrison,
  Thomas B. Cullihan, A. W. Stadler, Charles D. Cool, W. H. Abbot, O. D.
  Kostenbauder and J. Kostenbauder.
       Catawissa Grange, No. 216, Patrons of Husbandry, was chartered April 30,
  1874. Among its first members were Matthias Hartman, Josiah Roberts, E.
  M. Tewksbury, Solomon Helsig, Martin T. Hartman, Samuel Fisher and John
  
  280
  S. Mensch. May 25, 1883, the Catawissa Grange and Hall Association was
  incorporated. A commodious brick structure was erected the following year
  at a cost of six-thousand dollars. June 13, 1884, the hall was dedicated by
  James Calder, D. D. May 28, 1884, a stock company was formed for its
  management with William T. Creasy, president, E. M. Tewksbury, secretary, and
  William J. Martin, treasurer. It may be proper to mention in this connection
  several agricultural discoveries for which Catawissa is noted. The Catawissa
  monthly raspberry has been propagated from a single plant discovered in the
  Friends burial ground some years ago. Blossoms and berries appear at the
  same time from July to October. In 1872 J. K. Sharpless originated the
  Sharpless seedling strawberry, and in 1878 William J. Martin discovered a new
  variety of an extensively cultivated cereal widely known as Martinıs amber
  wheat.
       Sylvania Division, No. 23, Order of Railway Conductors, was organized
  May 18, 1881, with the following members: John W. Dent, P. S. Robison,
  Samuel L. Bowers, William H. Berger, James F. Miller, Lewis C. Reifsnyder,
  Peter Runker, Benjamin F. Ryan, Theodore Schmick, George W. Forrer and
  John W. Fenstermacher.
       Mountain Grove Lodge, No. 324, Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen, was
  organized July 14, 1886. The members at that time were Daniel Geiger,
  James Kelley, Jeremiah Haley, Charles Brown, George D. Bowman, James
  Fisher, Charles E. McAfee, George E. Mensch, Ham. Yeager, William R.
  Smith, Ira B. Ervin, Boyd Longenberger, Frank Perry, John L. Getkin, John
  I. Chambers, George W. Ervin, and G. W. Linn.
       The Quakers who first settled Catawissa shared in that devotion to their
  faith which characterized its adherents at this period. Their meeting-house
  may be seen on a knoll a short distance from the confluence of the creek and
  Susquehanna. It is a log building, nearly or quite square, and no entrance is
  visible from the front. It presents a weather-beaten but substantial appearance.
  The furniture of the interior is severely plain and not suggestive of comfort or
  elegance. In the rear of this structure is a burial ground surrounded by a
  stone wall. Within the inclosure are a number of trees, the massive trunks
  and spreading branches of which would seem to indicate great age. The majes-
  tic oaks, the low, wooden building and the quiet burial ground are invested
  with associations of the most sacred character. This plain structure was the
  first completed house of worship in the valley of the "North Branch" between
  Sunbury and Wyoming.
       How long it has been a place of worship cannot be definitely determined.
  It is the oldest building in Catawissa, and this statement implies an existence
  of more than a century. In 1787 William Collins, William Hughes, James
  Watson, John Love and other Friends resident in the vicinity were granted
  permission to hold religious services here be the Exeter (Berks county) meeting,
  the ecclesiastical body in the jurisdiction of which they were embraced. At
  the Philadelphia Quarterly Meeting, November 2, 1795, Exeter Friends re-
  ported having for some time been considering the advisability of forming a new
  meeting within their limits. After due deliberation the proposed change was
  made and Catawissa monthly meeting established. April 23, 1976, the body
  thus instituted held its first session. It was attended by Ellis Yarnall, Arthur
  Howell, Henry Drinker, John Morton, James Cresson, David Potts, Thomas
  Lightfoot and Benjamin Scarlot, from Philadelphia; and by Amos Lee, Jacob
  Thomas, Owen Hughes and Thomas Pearson, from Exeter. An organization was
  effected by the election of Isaac Wiggins as clerk. Among other business trans-
  acted was the appointment of Ellis Hughes and William Ellis to prepare suit-
  
  281     
  able marriage certificates; and of James Watson, John Lloyd, Joseph Car-
  penter, Benjamin Warner, Thomas Eves, Reuben Lundy, Nathan Lee and John
  Hughes to care for the Friends burial ground. The meeting thus begun con-
  tinued for twelve years. Toward the close of that period the Friends had be-
  come so reduced in numbers that this body dissolved December 24, 1808. Since
  that time meetings have been held by the few Friends who still reside in the
  vicinity, but such occasions are neither frequent nor regular.
       The German element of the population also took measures at an early date
  to secure fro themselves those religious privileges they had previously enjoyed.
  When Christian Brobst entered Catawissa in 1795 he was accompanied by Rev-
  erend Seely;, a Lutheran pastor from Berks county. May 1, 1796, a commun-
  ion was held at Brobstıs recently built cabin. The following persons partici-
  pated: Michael Raup, Michael Hower, Daniel Geiger, Christian Brobst, John
  Wirts, Jacob Yocum, Conrad Geiger, Catherine Wirts, Barbara Brobst, Regina
  Hartel, Maria Gillihans and Catharine Hower. This is the first service of this
  kind held at Catawissa. January 1, 1796, the first baptisms recorded oc-
  cured. The subjects were Joseph, Edna, Maria, children, respectively, of
  Christian Brobst and Frederick Knittle and Daniel Yocum.
       Denominational distinctions were but slightly observed in those days. Rever-
  end G. V. Stock became Lutheran pastor in 1802, and Reverend John Dietrich
  Adams six years later is mentioned as occupying a similar position over the
  Reformed congregation. March 10, 1804, articles of agreement in the joint
  ownership and use of a house of worship for both denominations were signed by
  Michael Hower, Jacob Yocum and Harmon Yost, elders, Samuel Felter and
  Daniel Geiger, deacons. Christian Brobst presented a building site. In
  the same year the church building was completed and dedicated. It was a
  stone structure.
       The furniture and arrangement of the interior conformed to the usual style
  of the period in that respect. The galleries extending round three sides, and
  the nine-glass pulpit would present a novel appearance if viewed at the pres-
  ent day. In 1853 this building was replaced by the brick edifice of which
  Saing Johnıs German Lutheran congregation is now exclusive owner. Rever-
  end Frederick Plitt succeeded Mr. Steely in 1808; Peter Hall became pastor
  in 1817; Peter Kester in 1820; Jeremiah Schindle in 1831; William J. Eyer
  in 1838; William Laitzel in 1874; L. Lindenstreuth in 1878; and J. H. Nei-
  man in 1881. Mr. Eyerıs pastorate covered a period as long as those of his
  predecessors combined.
       At his suggestion June 25, 1845, a meeting was held to devise means for
  the organization and government of that portion of the congregation which pre-
  ferred English services. Christian Brobst was called to the chair and Charles
  Witmer appointed secretary. It was decided to make the proposed division,
  and confer upon the new organization the name of Saint Matthewıs English
  Lutheran church. William J. Eyer, Stephen Baldy, Joseph Brobst, Jacob
  Kreigh, John Hartman and Peter Bodine were directed to prepare a constitu-
  tion. July 13, 1845, the draft submitted by them was adopted; and
  November 19, 1850 the church became a corporate body. William J. Eyer
  remained in charge as pastor until 1851; J. F. Wampole and J. R. Dimm
  served in that capacity until 1867, when Daniel Beckner became regular pas-
  tor; Sylvanus Curtis followed in 1870; C. F. Coates in 1871; R. F. Kings-
  bury in 1872; E. H. Leisenring in 1875: F. P. Manhart in 1878; J. F.
  Deiner in 1879; D. M. Henckel in 1882; and U. Myers in 1883. In 1851
  a church edifice was erected; in 1884 this was remodeled at a cost of ten-
  thousand dollars. The rededication occurred October 14, 1884. Reverends
  
  
  282
  Sharrets, Manhart, Schinde. Leisenring, Bodine and resident ministers of
  other denominations, assisted the pastor.
       Reverends Diefenbach, Knable, Tobias, Fursch, Steeley, Daniels, Moore,
  Dechant and Derr successively followed Mr. Adams as pastor of the Reformed
  congregation. During Mr. Dechantıs pastorate the joint ownership of Saint
  Johnıs union church was dissolved. May 18, 1882, the corner-stone of a new
  Saint Johnıs was laid. The building operations were directed by Mr. Dechant,
  who was entrusted with entire supervision over the work, financial and other-
  wise. May 6, 1883, the completed edifice was dedicated. The pastor was as-
  sisted by Reverends O. H. Strunch of Bloomsburg, and William C. Scheaffer
  of Danville.
       The history of Methodism in Catawissa is different from that of the denom-
  inations mentioned. The latter owe their existence to emigration from local-
  ities where they were already established; the former dates it origin from a
  visit of Bishop Asbury, the founder of that religious body in America. Tradi-
  tion asserts that he stopped at Joseph McIntyreıs on a journey from Sunbury
  to Wyoming; that he held services there which resulted in the conversion of that
  family and others; and formed a class, which in course of time became a regu-
  lar appointment. Asbury was followed by other itinerant missionaries--
  Nathaniel Mills, James Paynter and Benjamin Abbot. Services were held in
  McIntyreıs house and barn, where E. M. Tewksbury lives. In 1828 a church
  building was erected; July 4, 1869, a second structure was dedicated. At
  that time it formed part of Elysburg circuit, but has since been transferred to
  Catawissa.
       In the town of Catawissa Methodism has been represented since 1834 by a
  church building; the second structure was built in 1854, and a third in 1884. At
  an adjourned Quarterly Conference held November 4, 1883, the following action
  was taken--"Resolved, that it is the judgment of this Quarterly Conference
  that we enter at once upon the work of building a new church; and that a
  committee be appointed to take subscriptions for that purpose." Pursuant to
  which, Reverend R. E. Wilson, J. M. Smith, L. B. Kline, H. F. Clark and
  C. C. Sharpless were authorized to solicit subscriptions. February 16, 1884
  a building committee was appointed composed of R. E. Wilson, H. F. Clark
  W. W. Perry, J. M. Smith, C. C. Sharpless, Jesse Mensch and L. B. Kline.
  Saturday, July 12, 1884, the corner-stone was laid. Sunday February 15,
  1885, Doctors Vincent and Upham dedicated the structure in the presence of
  a large concourse of people.
       The services of the Protestant Episcopal church were first held in Cata-
  wissa in 1860 by the Reverend E. N. Lightner, rector of Christ church, Dan-
  ville. Some years later the Reverend T. H. Cullen, rector of Saint Paulıs
  church, Bloomsburg, held services monthly, and administered baptism to few
  adults and infants at various times. In 1879 his successor, the Reverend John
  Hewitt, conducted bi-monthly services in Masonic hall, alternating with the
  Reverend J. M. Peck of Danville. During this time the Right Reverend
  William B. Stevens, bishop of the diocese, officiated at two confirmations.
  In May, 1871, Saint Johnıs parish was formed. George S. Gilbert, Walter
  Scott, Isaac H. Seesholtz, William H. Abbott, W. B. Parkins and--Jones were
  elected wardens and vestrymen. They immediately applied to the convention
  of the diocese of Pennsylvania for a charter, but for some reason failed to
  secure it. Catawissa being geographically within the limits of the Central
  Pennsylvania diocese, that body at its first annual convention received the
  parish into union with itself June 12, 1872. A short time previous, the Rev-
  erend Joseph L. Colton was called to the rectorship. April 2, 1872, he
  
  283     
  entered upon his duties, and opened a parochial school. In January of this
  year, the church purchased the property of the Catawissa Seminary Company,
  but worshiped in Masonic hall until the necessary alterations had been made
  in its interior furnishing. The communion was first celebrated in the town
  agreeably to the ritual of the Protestant Episcopal church the first Sunday in
  June, 1872. Two weeks later the congregation worshiped in its own building.
  July 21, 1878, Mr. Coltonıs connection with the parish ceased with his resig-
  nation. December 31, 1881, Reverend Charles E. Fessenden resigned after
  a rectorship of six months. The Reverend L. Zahner. Of Bloomsburg, has
  conducted occasional services then.
       The educational history of Catawissa, as well as it religious record, was
  begun by the society of Friends June 24, 1797. John Mears informed the
  monthly meeting that a sum of money raised by general subscriptions among
  Philadelphia Friends had been placed in his hands, for the purpose of establish-
  ing a school at Catawissa, "for the education of children in useful learning," and
  that he had expended part of it in the purchase of a lot of ground, the title to
  which was held in trust by John Lloyd, Robert Field, Charles Chapman and
  Ellis Hughes. The following year the gratifying announcement was made that
  John Pemberton, a prominent citizen of Philadelphia, had bequeathed the
  sum of twenty pounds toward the encouragement and support of the school,
  to be applied to the instruction of children of members of our society in use-
  ful and necessary school learning.² The school thus begun in 1797 was con-
  tinued with satisfactory results until the dissolution of the monthly meeting.
       The Germans also manifested a degree of interest in establishing and main-
  taining schools. In 1800 Martin Stuck, of Hamburg, Berks county, opened a
  school in Michael Geigerıs dwelling near McIntyreıs. The following year
  he removed to a building erected for school purposes nearer Catawissa creek.
  He was employed by Peter Fornwald, Archibald Hower, Frederick Knittle,
  Thomas Fester and others. In 1804 Mrs. Mary Paxton opened a school in
  her house in Catawissa. In addition to the usual branches, she taught the
  girls to sew and knit. Elijah Barger and Ellis Hughes were teachers about
  this time in the Friendsı school. Messrs. Kent and Ely, of New York, suc-
  ceeded to the patronage of Mrs. Paxtonıs school when she closed it. In 1818
  Thomas Barger established the most extensive educational institution that had
  yet existed. His scholars came from Mainsville and other points as well as
  the immediate vicinity. The "institution" was conducted on the second
  floor of a spring-house.
       The year 1838 marks the beginning of a new era in the school history of
  Catawissa. The advent of the new regime is thus explained:
  
  CATAWISSA, March 16, 1838.                            
  To the School Board of Catawissa Township:
       GENTLEMEN: At a meeting of the qualified electors of said district, held this day at
  the house of Stacy Margerum in pursuance of an act of assembly entitled: "An act to
  consolidate and amend the several acts relative to a general system of education by com-
  mon schools," passed the 13th day of June, 1836, they, the said electors, determined by a
  majority of those then and there present and voting on the question, to accept of the sys-
  tem of common schools as established by said act, of which you will take notice, and
  govern yourselves accordingly. Witness our hands the date above mentioned.
  
  EZRA S. HAYHURST,                         
  CHARLES CONNER.                         
  Secretaries of said meeting.                         
       Accordingly March 19, 1838, a meeting of the first school-board was held.
  William Clayton, Isaiah John, Ezra S. Hayhurst, Caspar Hartman, Christian
  A. Brobst and Milton Boone constituted this first board of directors. They
  were called to order by Casper Hartman, who nominated Christian A. Brobst
  for president, and Ezra S. Hayhurst for secretary. Both were elected unani-
  mously. A code of resolutions, fourteen in number, was presented by the
  secretary and adopted as rules of order. Messrs. Clayton, Boone, Hartman
  and John, agreeable to instructions from the board, divided the township into
  ten sub-districts. Provision was made for the erection of ten house, the
  amounts paid ranging from one-hundred and eighty-five to two-hundred and ten
  dollars. More than four-thousand dollars were expended the first year. The
  taxation necessary to provide for this was regarded by many as onerous and
  unnecessary. At an election held March 19, 1841, the continuance of the sys-
  tem was sustained by a small majority. It was again submitted May 5, 1846,
  and this time there were but four dissenting votes.
       Although the system gave general satisfaction, there were those who de-
  sired better educational advantages than it could confer. After mature delib-
  eration on the part of those most interested, it was decided to establish a
  school "for the promotion of education, both in the ordinary and higher
  branches of English literature and science, and in the ancient and modern
  languages." To accomplish this, they secured a charter for "Catawissa
  Seminary." February 9, 1866, George H. Willits, Charles W. McKelvy,
  Samuel B. Diemer, George Scott, Isaiah John, Henry Hollingshead, David
  Clark and John K. Robbins were its first trustees. Professors Lance, For-
  syth and Case were among the teachers. The general results of the school
  were satisfactory and beneficial; but on account of the limited patronagere-
  ceived, it was closed before completing the first decade of its history.
       Although not apparently a fortunate occurrence, this circumstance has in-
  directly advanced the educational interests of the community in general.
  When the seminary closed, intelligent and public spirited citizens began to
  direct their attention to the improvement of the common schools, which had
  retrograded from the high standard established by Joel E. Bradley in 1838.
  The question of replacing the dilapidated school-house with a structure of ade-
  quate size, and of lengthening the term, was agitated with energy and per-
  sistence. A director of pronounced views in favor of both changes was elected
  in 1877. The movement gained strength, and in 1879 its supporters had a
  controlling influence in the board. The ideas which actuated their policy of
  improvement are tangibly expressed in the imposing structure which Catawissa
  has dedicated to the cause of education.
       It is pleasantly located at the head of Main street and commands a view of
  the most picturesque section of the Susquehanna valley. The surroundings
  are eminently adapted to exert that unconscious influence on pliant minds
  which creates in them aspirations for what is beautiful, true and good in char-
  acter. The location is healthful, salubrious and agreeable. The building pre-
  sents an attractive, symmetrical and substantial appearance. A marble block
  in the wall is inscribed with the names of E. B. Guie, B. R. Davis, G.
  W. Reifsnyder, J. B. Yetter, L. Eyer and Dr. W. Walter, directors; W.
  W. Perry, architect, and Charles King, contractor. The interior is con-
  veniently and judiciously arranged. It was first occupied for school pur-
  poses in April, 1882. Charles H. Albert was principal and E. B. Guie
  first assistant. A library of well selected books, to which pupils have con-
  stant access, and a cabinet of philosophical and chemical apparatus add
  interest to every study embraced in the curriculum. The establishment of this
  institution, and its successful operation under the management of competent
  teachers and enterprising directors, reflect credit on the intelligence of the en-
  tire body of citizens. 
  
  285     
  Franklin Township
  	     At the January session of the court in 1843, certain citizens of Catawissa
  petitioned for a division of that township "on account of the great incon-
  venience of attending elections and other township business." The prayer of
  the petitioners was granted, and a favorable report having been received from
  the commissioners appointed to inquire into thematter, the new township was
  erected with the name of Franklin. Its limits included the area now embraced
  in the townships of Mayberry and Franklin. When Montour county was
  formed in 1850 it became one of its sub-divisions; but when, in 1853, the di-
  vision line was re-adjusted, Franklin was divided, the portion remaining in Mon-
  tour being erected into Mayberry township.
       Settlement in this region began at a later period than in the Catawissa
  valley. In 1783 John Cleaver, a Quaker from Chester county, visited friends
  who had located there and decided to purchase a tract on the opposite side of
  the river. He returned with his family in the spring of the following year,
  but was deterred from completing his purchase by accounts of a flood the pre-
  vious winter. The river rose to an unprecedented height, overflowing its
  banks and compelling families living on the "bottoms" to leave their homes.
  The Cleavers thereupon settled on the hills above Roaring creek. The Claytons,
  another family of the same religious preferences, followed them from Chester
  county to their new homes. At a later period German settlers also made their
  appearance. Frederick Knittle, from Richmond township, Berks county,
  located on the Esther furnace road. In 1795 Daniel Knittle became owner of
  an adjoining tract. John and Peter Mensch located north of Roaring creek,
  near the river. Michael Hoover settled on the hill road to Danville, and
  Christian Hartley on the site of Pensyl's mill.
       Catawissa has always been the town for this section. Its business interests
  are represented by two stores, located respectively at Parr's mill and at Pensyl.
  A post-office is connected with the latter. It was formerly known as Willow-
  vale, but has been re-established under the name Pensyl.
       The churches and schools attended by Franklin people were also located in
  Catawissa township. The following with regard to the latter appears in the re-
  port of William H. Snyder, county superintendent in 1876: After the school
  closed at McIntyre's, a house was built just above the foundry to accommodate
  the settlers at the mouth of Catawissa creek. Mr. Stuck, who had taught at
  McIntyre's, was succeeded in this school by Daniel Krist and Daniel Bigles.
  Several married men availed themselves of the opportunity to receive instruc-
  tion at this school. Near where Joseph T. Reeder lived, Joseph Horlecker
  opened a school which was called "Clayton's school," by which name it is now
  known. The one established below Esther furnace was taught by Samuel Bit-
  ler and James Stokes.
       The religious organizations, Bethel and Mount Zion churches, have been
  formed with a membership originally connected with the McIntyre appoint-
  ment. The Bethel church edifice was erected in 1859, at which time David
  Zarr, Jonas Berninger, Joseph Hartman, John Teitsworth, Nicholas Camp-
  bell, William Reeder, Peter Yocum and William Kiesle were trustees. In
  1874 Mount Zion church was built. At this time the trustees were William
  Fisher, Joseph Reeder, Peter G. Campbell, Wellington Cleaver, Jackson
  Cleaver, John Hile, Joseph Fisher, Sylvester Cleaver and Eli Keilner. Both
  appointments are connected with the Catawissa circuit, and embraced in the
  Danville district of the Central Pennsylvania Conference of the Methodist
  Episcopal church.