BIO: Joshua Wilson SHARPE, Franklin County, PA Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Abby Bowman Copyright 2004. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/franklin/ _______________________________________________ Pennsylvania A History - Biographical. George P. Donehoo, Editor-in-Chief. Chicago/New York: Lewis Historical Publishing Co., Inc., 1928. _______________________________________________ Pages 76-77 JOSHUA WILSON SHARPE – A leading member of the Franklin County Bar, Mr. Sharpe was one of the foremost citizens of Chambersburg, Franklin County, Pennsylvania, where for some thirty-six years he was engaged most successfully in the general practice of law. In spite of the heavy demands made upon his time and energy by his extensive and important law practice, he found it possible to devote himself throughout many years to many other interests and every cause that tended to the welfare and development of Chambersburg always could count upon his sincere, active, and effective support. His participation in public affairs, which included service as chief burgess of Chambersburg, contributed much to the town’s prosperity and development in modern times. Joshua W. Sharpe was born in Newville, Cumberland County, February 8, 1851, a son of Samuel Wilson and Ann Eliza (McKeehan) Sharpe. He was educated at Tuscarora Academy, at Chambersburg Academy, and at Princeton University, from which latter he was graduated in 1873. He then took up the study of law in the offices of the Hon. J. McDowell Sharpe, of Chambersburg and, having been admitted to the Franklin County Bar September 7, 1875, he established himself in the practice of his profession at Washington, District of Columbia. Unfortunately soon afterwards his health failed and he spent the next ten years in the South, on a ranch in Montana, and in travel in foreign countries. In 1887 he resumed the practice of law in Chambersburg, continuing until his retirement in 1906. When, in the early part of the twentieth century a vacancy occurred in the office of chief burgess of Chambersburg, at a time when several important matters, vital to the interests of the borough, were under consideration, Judge Stewart, then President Judge of Franklin County, prevailed upon Mr. Sharpe to accept the appointment to this office. He filled this position with great ability, and he was one of the most effective chief magistrates which Chambersburg ever had, being utterly fearless in doing the right as he saw it, and giving consideration to nothing except the best interests and the progress of the town. While he was in office it was due to his veto that the sale of the electric light plant to a private corporation was prevented. Even after he had retired from public office he continued his active interest in public affairs, and as late as 1920 he was of great service to his community in connection with the problem of its water supply. For several years Mr. Sharpe was director of the National Bank of Chambersburg, of which he was also the attorney. He was trustee of the Chambersburg Academy until it was discontinued, also trustee and secretary of the board of Wilson College and very active in everything pertaining to its welfare, and was actively interested in several other institutions and organizations, and for some years preceding his death he took an especially active part in the affairs of the local Boy Scout organization. During the World War he gave his active support, influence and means to every patriotic movement undertaken in his community. In politics he was a staunch and loyal supporter of the Republican party and a sincere believer in its principles. Throughout his life he was very fond of nature and outdoor activities, and especially of hunting. At the same time he was also an untiring reader of good literature, exceptionally well posted on current affairs and on many other subjects on which he could discourse in a most interesting and entertaining manner. His religious affiliations were with the Presbyterian church and more particularly with the Falling Spring Presbyterian Church, of which he was a trustee and in the work of which he took a very active part. He was also a trustee of Rocky Spring Presbyterian Church and was much interested in the preservation of that old historic church. Mr. Sharpe married, June 5, 1889, Sara Fleming, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Sharpe had no children, and for many years resided on Philadelphia Avenue, where Mrs. Sharpe continues to make her home. His death occurred February 24, 1923. A simple but impressive service was held at his late residence, conducted by Rev. W. L. Mudge, pastor of Falling Spring Church, assisted by Dr. E. W. Warfield, president of Wilson College, and attended by a large number of his many friends. He was buried at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. In Mr. Sharpe’s death his wife lost a loving and devoted husband, his community one of its most upright, useful and cultured citizens, and his numerous friends a genial and faithful associate. A memorial meeting was called a few days after his death by the Franklin County Bar Association and, after some of his intimate associates had paid their tributes to his many fine qualities, the following resolution was adopted: Joshua W. Sharpe was admitted to this Bar September 7, 1875. His career was more active and creditable until his retirement more than ten years ago. He served his clients loyally and impressed all who came in contact with him by his sincerity and earnestness. His relations with his fellow members of the Bar were cordial and we all appreciate the courtesy that marked his professional and personal intercourse with us. Mr. Sharpe was actively interested in public matters and often during his long residence in the county rendered the community notable service and won and enjoyed the confidence and esteem of the people. Courage, unselfishness and aggressive honesty characterized his life in all its activities, and in his being called hence, the Bar has lost a high-minded lawyer, the town a useful citizen and those of us who came to know him well, a true and trusted friend.