Local History: Chapter LI: Biographical Sketches - Shamokin, Ralpho, Rush, and Gearhart Townships, and Boroughs of Snydertown and Riverside. Part 2: Bell's History of Northumberland Co PA Contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by Tony Rebuck Tar2@psu.edu USGENWEB NOTICE: Printing this file by non-commercial individuals and libraries is encouraged, as long as all notices and submitter information is included. Any other use, including copying files to other sites requires permission from the submitters PRIOR to uploading to any other sites. We encourage links to the state and county table of contents. Transcribed from Bell's History of Northumberland County Pennsylvania CHAPTER LI. PART 2 Pages 1195 - 1217. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. SHAMOKIN, RALPHO, RUSH, AND GEARHART TOWNSHIPS, AND BOROUGHS OF SNYDERTOWN AND RIVERSIDE. DANIEL KRIGBAUM, miller and farmer, was born in Snydertown, Pennsylvania, in 1813, son of William and Mary (Gonsar) Krigbaum. His paternal grandfather, John Adam Krigbaum, a native of Berks county, settled in Plum Creek valley, and later purchased eighty acres of land at Reed's Station. He married a sister of Governor Snyder, who bore him five sons: John; William; George; Daniel, and Jonathan. William, the second son, was born in Berks county, and removed with his parents to this county when nine years of age. He was a miller by occupation, and was engaged at that business ten years at Snydertown. In 1822 he purchased a farm of one hundred fifty acres of land in Shamokin township, where he remained until 1836, when he pur- END OF PAGE 1195 chased the mill property and a farm of one hundred acres where our subject now resides. His family consisted of five children: Catharine, deceased; Rebecca, deceased; Daniel; Harriet, widow of David Reeser, of Shamokin, and Julia Ann, deceased. The subject of our sketch learned the milling trade and succeeded to the business of his father, and is also extensively engaged in farming. He was married in 1849 to Sarah, daughter of John Duttinger, of Shamokin township, and they are the parents of seven children: Mary J., wife of Joseph Buddinger, of Mt. Camel; William F., who is engaged in business with his father; Julia A., wife of William H. Mettler, of Rush township; Christian; John W.; Daniel W., and Adam E. In politics Mr. Krigbaum is a Republican, and has always manifested a lively interest in the success of his party, but never sought public office of any kind, and never served in any office of public trust excepting that of postmaster, which position he filled nine years at Bear Gap. In religious faith he is a Lutheran, and is one of the respected citizens of the township. SOLOMON B. KRICK, son of George and Mary Krick, was born in Cumru township, Berks county, Pennsylvania, October 17, 1772, and in 1809 settled on the land in Ralpho township, Northumberland county, now owned by his grandson, John Krick. He was thrice married; his first wife was Elizabeth Homan, by whom he had three sons: George; Peter, and David, all of whom are dead. His second wife was Elizabeth Geist, by whom he had one son, Solomon. His third wife was Elizabeth Wearing. Mr. Krick was a man of some local prominence and great force of character, and served in several township offices. In politics he was originally a Whig, and in later years a Democrat. In religion he was a member of the German Reformed denomination, and an elder and deacon in Jacob's church many years. His death occurred, September 27, 1849, and he was buried in the old grave-yard at St. Peter's church. He was a veteran of the war of 1812. GEORGE KRICK, eldest son of Solomon and Elizabeth (Homan) Krick, was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, February 14, 1804. He was reared upon the homestead in what is now Ralpho township, and attended the rude log school house of that period. He learned the trade of weaver, and lived for a time in Rush township and at Snydertown. For several years he was employed upon the construction of the Northern Central railway. After his marriage he cultivated the Hoover farm, and in March, 1849, returned to the homestead, which he inherited at his father's death in the same year He was an ardent Democrat, and filled the office of school director and other township positions. He was a consistent member of the German Reformed church, and an elder and deacon of Jacob's church for many years. He married Anna Hoover, who bore him a family of six children: Mary E., wife of Robert R. Teitsworth; Elizabeth, wife of Dr. J. J. John, of Shamokin; John; William, of Shenandoah, Pennsylvania; Maggie, wife of Rev. Jacob F. Wampole, of Freeburg, Pennsylvania, and Annie. Mr. Krick died, Oc- END OF PAGE 1196 tober 15, 1888, in the eighty-fifth year of his age, leaving an untarnished reputation for honesty and truth. His wife died, June 20, 1883. JOHN KRICK, farmer, is the eldest son of George and Anna (Hoover) Krick, and was born, August 14, 1834, upon the homestead where he now resides. He was educated in the public schools, and has always been engaged in farming. Mr. Krick was married, December 28, 1863, to Margaret Ellen, daughter of Daniel Swank, of Ralpho township, by which union they have five children: Emma, wife of W. C. Kase, of Montour county; Mary C.; George D.; Charles F., and Lizzie E. Mr. Krick is one of the members of the township school board, and in religious faith a Lutheran, in which church he has served as elder and deacon. Politically he is a stanch Democrat, and is one of the worthy citizens of his native township. THE FISHER FAMILY of Northumberland county are descended from Joseph and Catharine (Minegar) Fisher, natives of Germany, born in April, 1734, and August, 1746, respectively, and married, June 5, 1764. They were the parents of the following children: Catharine, who married Nicholas Shipman; Henry; Mary, who married Samuel Mutchler; Hannah, who became the wife of Caleb Farlee; Elizabeth; John; Moses; David; Jacob, and Joseph. It is claimed that the parents settled near the site of Catawissa, in what is now Columbia county, Pennsylvania, some time in the last century, but prior to that they evidently lived in Bradford county, where their oldest son, Henry, was born, July 25, 1767. The latter resided in Columbia county, whence he removed into this county. He was the father of eight children: Jacob; John; Caleb; Clotworthy; Joseph; Sarah; Elizabeth, and Catharine. He located upon the land now owned by Peter Leisenring, where he built a grist mill and tavern, which he operated many years. He also owned about eighteen acres of land adjacent to the mill and hotel property. His death occurred about 1825, after which all his family, except his son John, left Northumberland county. JOHN FISHER was born in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, September 20, 1800, son of Henry Fisher. He was a miller by trade, and after the old mill property passed into the hands of the Leisenring family, he was engaged as miller for them until 1851. He then purchased the Sober mill, now known as Reed's mill, on Shamokin creek, which he operated until 1873 in connection with his farm of eighty acres, when he purchased two farms in Ralpho township. His son, Albert S., now resides upon one, and his daughter, Mrs. Charles Paul, possesses the other. He married Hannah, daughter of Nicholas Yocum. His death occurred, September 17, 1881, his widow surviving him until August 11,1889. Politically he was a Republican, and a member of the Methodist church. They were the parents of fourteen children, two of whom died in infancy: Clotworthy, of Snyder county; Sarah, wife of Joseph Sanders; Nicholas Y., of Indiana; Esther, widow of Charles Martz, of Shamokin; Charles, of Columbia county; Jacob F., deceased; James B., de- END OF PAGE 1197 ceased; Catharine, wife of John McWilliams, of Missouri; Peter Y., killed at the battle of Fredericksburg, a member of Company C, One Hundred and Thirty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers; Margaret, wife of Franklin Martz, of Columbia county; Albert S., of Ralpho township; Mary J., wife of Peter G. Bobb, of Paxinos; Harvey E., of Boston, Massachusetts, and Alice, deceased wife of Charles Paul. ALBERT S. FISHER was born at Bear Gap, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, March 2, 1843. He was educated at the public schools. September 10, 1861, he enlisted in Company F, Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, re-enlisted in 1864, and served until the close of the war. He participated in the following battles: Port Royal, Beaufort, Port Royal Ferry, Acquia, White Sulphur Springs, second Bull Run, Centreville, and Chantilly, where he was wounded, September 1, 1862, receiving a gun-shot wound in the left thigh. After recovering he participated in the battles of South Mountain, Antietam, siege of Vicksburg, Blue Stone Sulphur Spring, Hughes's Ferry, Tenoir Station, Campbell Station, Knoxville, the Wilderness, Ny River, and Spottsylvania Court House, where he was taken prisoner and sent to Andersonville, where he remained four months. He was then transferred to Florence, South Carolina, where he was confined three months. He was paroled, December 13,1864, and rejoined his regiment in April, 1865, where he remained until discharged. At the close of the war he engaged with his father in the mill one year, when he found employment with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, where he remained five years. In 1873 he located upon his present place, and has since been engaged in cultivating his farm of one hundred acres. He was married in 1868 to Mary, daughter of David Martz, of Ralpho township; by this union they have two children: William E. and Margie L. Mr. Fisher is a member of Lincoln Post, G.A.R., of Shamokin, and the P.O.S. of A. of Paxinos, and a member of the German Reformed church of Ralpho township. PETER LEISENRING, Sr., was a son of a German emigrant who settled in Northampton county, Pennsylvania, from whom the Leisenrings of Lehigh and Northumberland counties have descended. He was born, February 28, 1770, in Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, came to this county in 1805, and settled upon a tract of one hundred nine acres two miles south of Sunbury. He erected a tannery, and was also engaged in distilling. He was a progressive man, and carried on a large business for those days. He introduced and raised the first red clover in this section of the country, and planted the first fruit orchard in his locality. He married Susan Schod, who was born in Lehigh county, May 17, 1774, and brought his family with him, consisting of three sons and two daughters: Jacob; Gideon; Peter; Lydia, wife of Christian Baldy, and Kittie, wife of Martin Weaver, all of whom are deceased. Both he and his wife died in this county. END OF PAGE 1198 JACOB LEISENRING, eldest son of Peter Leisenring, was born in Lehigh county, July 14, 1794. He learned the tanning trade, and in youth was engaged with his father in the transportation of the products of the tannery, distillery, and farm to the Philadelphia market, which in those days was done by teams. It is said he used to carry to Philadelphia large sums of money to purchase supplies for the surrounding farmers. In the war of 1812 he enlisted under Captain Hummel and served nine months. In 1833 in connection with William Cloyd, whose interest he subsequently bought, he purchased the Fisher property, where his son Peter now lives, consisting of one hundred five acres, a grist mill, and tavern, where he was the landlord forty years. He subsequently purchased from Benjamin Tillman the adjoining farm and had in one tract five hundred sixty-five acres, and at Paxinos a farm of two hundred acres. He was a man of fine executive ability, and his opinion and judgment was much sought by his neighbors and friends. Politically he was a strong Democrat, and, while not an active politician, he manifested much interest in the success of his party. He gave much time and thought to the cultivation and improvement of his land and management of his other interests, and by industry and self- reliance succeeded in making himself one of the most prominent farmers of the county. He married, June 13, 1819, Mary, daughter of Henry Bucher of Sunbury, who died, June 11, 1873, at the age of seventy-three years and six months. His death occurred, May 11, 1878. In his religious faith he was a Lutheran, of which church he was a lifelong member, filling the office of deacon many years. His family consisted of nine children, seven of whom reached maturity: Charles, deceased, who married Maria Haas; Henry, who still survives; Lydia, deceased wife of Benjamin Wolverton; Catharine, widow of George Hughwaut; Frank; Mrs. Doctor Mifflin, of Paxinos, and Peter. FRANK LEISENRING, third son of Jacob and Mary (Bucher) Leisenring, was born in 1835 upon the homestead, educated in the public schools, and is a farmer by occupation. He married in 1861 Angelina Keller, of Ralpho township, and they are the parents of two children: George K. and Laura. Mr. Leisenring has filled many of the minor offices of the township, and is one of the present members of the school board. He is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the Lutheran church. PETER LEISENRING, fourth son of Jacob and Mary (Bucher) Leisenring, was born, May 12, 1842, upon the homestead farm where he now resides. He was educated in the township schools, and at the age of twenty-one engaged in the lumber business, which he carries on in connection with his grist and saw mill. He is also extensively engaged in farming, cultivating two hundred eighty acres of land. He was married in 1876 to Mary A., daughter of Joseph Sanders of Columbia county, Pennsylvania, and by this union they have two children: Jacob E. and Mary C. Mr. Leisenring is a pronounced Democrat, a Lutheran in religious faith, and is one of Ralpho township's influential and progressive Citizens. END OF PAGE 1199 JACOB EPLER, a native of Tulpehocken township, Berks county, Pennsylvania, settled in Shamokin about the year 1810. He married in Berks county, and his family consisted of ten children. His son Jacob died in Shamokin township in 1845; his wife survived him about five years. Samuel Epler, the youngest son, was born in Shamokin township in 1810. He was reared a farmer, and in 1841 purchased the farm containing one hundred twenty acres of William Walter, where his son, Samuel, now resides. In his political affiliations he was a warm Democrat, and served in the minor township offices. In his religious belief Mr. Epler was a German Reformed, of which church he was a prominent member, and elder for many years. His death occurred in 1887; his wife died in 1871. His family consisted of eight children, one of whom died in infancy; William H., who died at the age of twenty-three; Valentine, of Rush township; Caroline, wife of Solomon Pensyl; John, of Point township; Henry J., of Saratoga, New York; Amos, and Samuel M., of Shamokin township. SAMUEL M. EPLER was born at the homestead farm, April 8, 1852, son of Samuel and Mary (Zimmerman) Epler. He received his education at the township schools and Freeburg Academy, in Snyder county, Pennsylvania. In early life Mr. Epler was engaged in teaching in the schools of Shamokin township, and for a number of years has been engaged in farming. In 1888 he established his coal business in the borough of Shamokin, which he operates in connection with his farm. In politics Mr. Epler is a life-long Democrat, and is a leading spirit in his party. He has served in the office of school director five years. He is an earnest friend to the cause of education, which he is always ready to aid with his means and influence. He has also filled the offices of township clerk, constable, overseer of the poor, and was secretary of the school board five years. He married Hannah E., daughter of the late Charles Hull, in 1881, and by this union they have one son, Charles H. Mr. Epler is a member of the German Reformed church, of Elysburg Lodge, F. & A.M., and is an enterprising and progressive citizen. WILLIAM FREDERICK KASEMAN was one of the early settlers of this portion of Northumberland county. He was born in Nassau-Dilburn, Germany, June 8, 1760, and came at the age of twelve years to this country, with a brother and sister, landing at Philadelphia. Little is known of his early life excepting that he was a resident of Berks county from 1772 up to the date of his coming to Northumberland county, about 1815. He purchased a tract of land containing fifty acres in what is now Ralpho township, which he cleared, and afterwards added to by subsequent purchases. He was an excellent farmer, and a successful business man. He married, in Berks county, Elizabeth Huntzner, and they were the parents of the following children: Jacob, who died in Ohio; John; Joseph; Daniel; David; Lydia A., who married John Pensyl; Catharine, who was twice married, her last husband being Gotleib Fogle, and Elizabeth, who married Leonard Pensyl. END OF PAGE 1200 William Frederick Kaseman was well known throughout the sparsely settled country at that time for his great physical endurance. When he first made his settlement the nearest store was at Sunbury, where he would go bare-footed for the necessary purchases for his family; up to within four years of his death, August 1, 1867 at the remarkable age of one hundred seven, he continued to do his share of the farm work. He was one of the original members of St. Peter's Reformed church, of which he was an elder, and was buried in the old graveyard of that society. His wife died many years before him, and of his family all are dead but one son. DANIEL KASEMAN, the only living son of William F. Kaseman, was born in January, 1814, in Berks county, and resides upon the old homestead in Ralpho township. He received such education as could be obtained at the old log school houses, and learned the carpenter trade, which he followed a number of years, when he settled upon the homestead farm, where he has since lived. He was married in 1834 to Elizabeth, daughter of Frederick Adams, who died in May, 1888. They were the parents of eight children: David; Joseph, deceased; Lydia, wife of Daniel Camp; Sybella, wife of Thomas Everts; Lloyd, deceased; Joel; Amanda, wife of F. P. Martz, and one who died in infancy. Daniel Kaseman, like his father, has always been a pronounced Democrat. He has filled minor township offices, and is a member of St. Peter's Reformed church, of which he has been an elder and deacon. Mr. Kaseman has retired from any active supervision of his farm, and David, his eldest son, in connection with another farmer, is engaged in the cultivation of both places. DAVID KASEMAN was born upon the homestead in l836, son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Adams) Kaseman. He was educated at the public schools and learned the carpenter trade, which he followed until 1875, when he purchased his place and has since been occupied in farming. He was married in 1857 to Lena, daughter of Jacob Yeager, and by this union they have been the parents of nine children, six of whom are living: Roselda, wife of Lewis Carroll; James, of Shamokin; Amelia, wife of Lewis Dunkleberger; Clementine, wife of Elmer Lewis: Leah Elizabeth, wife of Amos Driesbach, and Henry. Mr. Kaseman has filled the office of supervisor two terms; politically he is a Democrat, and is a member of the German Reformed church, of which he has served as elder and deacon. JOHN DUTTINGER, farmer, was born in 1828, son of John and Mary Esther (Reed) Duttinger. His maternal grandfather, Casper Reed, was one of the pioneer settlers of Shamokin township. The paternal grandfather was John Duttinger, a native of Germany who married Elizabeth Leise, and immigrated, with their son John, to this country about the beginning of the present century, and settled in Alsace township, Berks county, Pennsylvania. About the year 1819 they removed to Northumberland county and settled in Shamokin township, where Diebler's Station is now located. He purchased END OF PAGE 1201 a small tract of land, where they lived until their death. John, their son, was born in 1799. He was a wheelwright and blacksmith by trade, which business he conducted at the old homestead until his death in 1834. He was a prominent member of the Lutheran church, of which he was an elder to the time of his death. In his political sentiments he was a pronounced Democrat. He married Mary Esther Reed about the year 1822, and she bore him five children; Sarah, wife of Daniel Krigbaum, of Ralpho township; John; Lavinia, wife of Solomon Unger, of Columbia county; Peter, and Mary, who died young. Mrs. Duttinger survived her husband, and married John Miller, a resident of Shamokin. The subject of this sketch was educated in the common schools and Danville Academy. He learned the trade of blacksmith, at which he was employed until February 29, 1864, when he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Eighty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, July 25, 1864, at the battle before Petersburg, he was sun-struck, removed to Herwood hospital, D. C., and sent from there to Philadelphia, where he was discharged, December 13, 1864, for disability. After his return he located upon his present farm, to which he has added until he possesses one hundred acres of land. He was married in 1850 to Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph Kaseman, of Shamokin township, who died in 1858, leaving four children: Emma, wife of George May, of Cameron township; John F., deceased; Florence M., wife of George Biddinger, of Rush township, and Anna R., wife of George Fessler, of Shamokin. Mr. Duttinger married for his second wife Elizabeth, daughter of Reuben Rupp, of Columbia county, and to this union were born ten children: William A.; Lorenzo M.; Sarah J.; Harriet M.; Esther C., wife of Jacob Kline; Daniel F.; Flora J.; George E.; Irwin L., and Bertha E., deceased. In early life Mr. Duttinger was a Democrat, but after the war became a Republican in politics; at the formation of the Greenback party he was a zealous exponent of its principles, and was the candidate of that party for the legislature in 1879; he was defeated, and has since been an independent voter with Prohibition proclivities. GEORGE HEFLEY, deceased, was a native of Germany, who immigrated to America about the year 1810, and settled near Bloomsburg, Columbia county, Pennsylvania. He was a farmer and distiller by occupation. He married Mary Woomkistle, of Columbia county, and they were the parents of five children: Lucy, Mrs. Worthman; Mary, Mrs. Samuel Bailer; Lavina, Mrs. Solomon Hartley; Sarah, and Charles, all deceased. He died in Columbia county in 1847. Charles Hefley, his son, was born in Columbia county in 1811, and was reared and educated there. At the age of ten years he entered a store, and subsequently engaged in that business in Bloomsburg, where he died. He married Margaret, daughter of Jonathan Vastine, of Rush township, and to this union were born three children: Elizabeth, wife of Harvey Robins; Harriet, deceased, and George W. Mr. Hefley was a prominent END OF PAGE 1202 Democrat, and a member of the Lutheran church. He died in 1848; his wife survived him until 1884. GEORGE W. HEFLEY, farmer, was born in Columbia county in 1843, son of Charles and Margaret (Vastine) Hefley. After his father's death the family removed to Elysburg, where he was reared and educated. He was occupied in farming until 1865, when he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. He was with General Grant before Petersburg, and at the fall of Richmond. After his return home, in connection with Harvey Robins, he engaged in the mercantile business in Elysburg, which they conducted three years, when he purchased his farm of one hundred seventy-two acres and has since been engaged in farming. He was married in 1866 to Emma, daughter of Matthias Persing, who died in 1887 leaving two children: Harriet and Harvey. In politics Mr. Hefley is a warm Republican, and manifests great interest in the success of his party. He is the present assessor, which position he has filled three years. In faith he is a Lutheran, of which church he is a member and an elder. Mr. Hefley is one of the progressive citizens of Shamokin township, and enjoys the respect and confidence of its citizens. EMANUEL S. PERSING, farmer, was born in August, 1843, son of Matthias and Johanna (Parent) Persing. The paternal grandfather, John Persing, was a native of New Jersey, who settled in Irish valley, upon the land now in possession of Joseph Bird, at an early date. He was a farmer and distiller. He married in New Jersey Ann Larkins, who bore him ten children: Benjamin, deceased; Washington, of Illinois; William, deceased; Alfred, deceased; Matthias, deceased; Nancy, deceased, who married Jacob Goss; Catharine, wife of Isaac Teitsworth; Mary deceased, who married John Shipman; Susan, deceased wife of a Mr. Willitt, and Sallie, deceased, who married Michael Taylor. John Persing died in 1858, and his wife in 1850. Matthias, the father of our subject, was born in New Jersey about 1814. He was reared upon the farm in Shamokin township, where he remained until his death in 1873. Politically he was a Republican, and a member of the Presbyterian church, in which he was a deacon. His wife was Johanna, daughter of Ephraim Parent, who died about 1871, leaving six children: Emanuel; Emma, deceased wife of George Hefley; Hamilton; Edwin; Ida, deceased, who married Adolphus Hartman, and Ambrose, who married Ida Cook. The subject of this sketch spent his early life in Pottsville and upon the farm in Shamokin township. In 1864 he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. After his return he attended school for some time, and engaged in farming, and subsequently in mercantile business. He is now engaged in farming. He was married in 1867 to Catharine, daughter of Amos Vastine, and by this marriage they are the parents of four children: Anna and Sadie, both deceased; Amos, and Susan. Politically Mr. Persing is a Republican, and is a member of the F. & A.M. END OF PAGE 1203 JAMES FOX, farmer, was born in Catawissa township, Columbia county, Pennsylvania, February 28, 1813, son of Jacob and Rachel (McIntire) Fox. The paternal grandfather was a native of Berks county, and his family consisted of six sons and three daughters. Jacob, the father of our subject, was born in Berks county, and was by occupation a mason. When a young man he obtained the contract for building a church at Catawissa, and after the completion of his contract concluded to remain there. He subsequently bought a farm in Catawissa township, where he resided and worked at his trade for many years. He was the father of seven children: William; Daniel; Hannah, wife of Isaac Irwin; Mary F.; Price; James, and Jacob. His death occurred in 1851, his wife having died fifteen years before. The subject of this sketch received a common school education, and spent his early life at the homestead farm. After the death of his father he removed to this county, and in connection with his brother-in-law, John Campbell, purchased a tract of land containing four hundred twenty-six acres, upon part of which he now resides. Mr. Fox was married in 1840 to Elizabeth, daughter of Obadiah Campbell. To them were born eight children: George W. and Isaac N., deceased; Obadiah, of Mt. Carmel; Isabella, wife of William Cherington; Joanna; William; Mary J., and Christopher. Mr. Fox is a member of the Presbyterian church, politically he is a Republican, and is one of the enterprising citizens of the township. In the cultivation of his farm he has paid unusual attention to fruit growing, and has the largest fruit farm in the county. DANIEL CAMPBELL, a native of New Jersey, was one of the early settlers of Shamokin township, Northumberland county. He located on Shamokin creek near where Jacob F. Muench now lives. He married in New Jersey, and his children were as follows: William; Robert; Daniel; John; Benjamin; Mary, who married William Teitsworth, and Kate, all of whom are dead. JOHN CAMPBELL, fourth son of Daniel Campbell, was born in New Jersey in 1776. In 1809 he settled on the land where his son Simeon resides, and was extensively engaged in farming. He reared a family of four children: Samuel, deceased; Simeon; Susan, who married John Hooey, and Mary, who married Henry Haupt. Mr. Campbell was a consistent member of the Presbyterian church for many years. His wife died in 1836, and he survived her until l855. GEORGE WILHOUR, deceased, was a native of Northampton county, Pennsylvania. He came to Northumberland county with the Klase family, and subsequently married Mrs. Peter Rockefeller, who was Elizabeth Miller before her marriage. Their family consisted of five children: Peter R.; Charles, deceased: Catharine, Mrs. John Campbell; Grace, deceased wife of Henry Coble, and Jane, Mrs. Enoch Taylor. George Wilhour died in l876, his wife having died in l865. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, a Baptist in religious faith, and in polities a Democrat. END OF PAGE 1204 PETER R. WILHOUR, farmer, was the eldest son of George and Elizabeth Wilhour, and was born upon the homestead in 1823. He was reared upon the farm, learned the carpenter's trade, and at the death of his father returned to the homestead and engaged in farming. He was married in 1847 to Harriet E., daughter of Alexander Tharp, and by this union they have eleven children: Andrew C.; Freeman H.; Jane; Rosetta; George W.; Joseph M.; Kate; Mary A.; William F.; Sarah E., and David. Mr. Wilhour has filled the offices of tax collector and school director. He was in active military service for a short time in the late Rebellion and was honorably discharged. In politics he is a Democrat, and in religious faith a Baptist, of which church he is one of the trustees. JOSEPH FOX came from Schuylkill county, Pennsylvania. His father was a German, who first settled near Leesport, Berks county, Pennsylvania, and subsequently removed to Schuylkill county, where he passed the remaining years of his life. His son, Joseph, came to Northumberland county and settled on the land now owned by Peter Bobb, at Paxinos. He was a blacksmith by trade, and about 1845 located upon the farm in Ralpho township where his son Absalom now lives. He married Hannah Boyer, of Schuylkill county, and his family consisted of the following children: Lydia, widow of P. M. Langton; Maria, widow of Henry Nelson; Margaret, wife of William Lupold; Sabina, widow of Galen S. Robins, M. D.; Caroline, wife of D. R. Pensyl; Mary M., widow of A. J. Kanoble; William, deceased; Absalom, and Jacob, of Nebraska. Joseph Fry died in 1863; his widow survived him until 1878. They were members of the German Reformed church, and he was a deacon and elder in that denomination. Politically he was a Democrat, and one of the well known citizens of his township. He carried on the blacksmith business forty years and thus became widely known. ABSALOM FOX, farmer, was born on the homestead at Paxinos, grew up under the parental roof, and learned the blacksmith trade. He worked at various places until l857, when he purchased the property and business of his father and conducted the same until 1888, when he gave up blacksmithing and has since been engaged in farming. He was married in 1862 to Mary, daughter of Casper Adams. She died in 1867, and in 1879 he married Kate Levan, of Berks county, Pennsylvania. Mr. Fry is a member of the Reformed church, and in politics a Democrat. WILLIAM S. AMMERMAN, deceased, was born in Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, February l5, 1809, and at the age of eight years he went to live with an uncle in Northampton county. In 1841 he returned to this county and settled in Rush township, but subsequently removed to Shamokin township and located upon the land where his son Robert B. now resides. He later established a store at this place, which he carried on some nine years. He married Juliana Bachman, and by this union they were the END OF PAGE 1205 parents of one son, Robert B. In politics Mr. Ammerman was a Republican and served as school director he was a Baptist, and served in the office of deacon many years. His death occurred, July 20, 1875; his widow survives, and resides with her son Robert B. ROBERT B. AMMERMAN, farmer, was born, July 18, 1834, at Lockport, Northampton county, Pennsylvania. He came with his parents to Northumberland county in 1841. He was educated in the public schools, at an early age commenced teaching, and subsequently engaged in the fruit business. He served in Company F, Thirty-sixth Pennsylvania Militia, from June 29, 1863, until the following August. In 1864 he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Eighty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. He was in the following engagements: Petersburg, Strawberry Plain, Weldon Railroad, Cold Harbor, and Ream's Station. August 25,1864, he was shot in the left thigh with a musket ball, was taken prisoner, and sent to Libby prison, where he remained about ten days. He was paroled and sent to St. John's hospital, Maryland, and discharged, June 12, 1865, at Summit House hospital. He then returned to his home and was engaged with his father in the mercantile business from 1866 until 1875, and then embarked in his present occupation. Mr. Ammerman was married, September 12, 1865, to Matilda, daughter of C. J. Reed, and by this union they are the parents of four sons: Gillman C.; William G.; Joseph C., and Lloyd R. Mr. Ammerman is a member of Bruner Post, G.A.R., and of the Baptist church. Politically he is a Republican. WILLIAM H. M. BAILY, farmer and florist, was born near Red Lion, Chester county, Pennsylvania, August 15, 1843, son of Ezekiel and Margaret (Marshall) Baily, natives of Chester county. His father was a tailor by trade, and for many years was engaged in droving, and afterwards in the mercantile business four miles from West Chester; he also conducted a hotel at Centreville, Delaware county. He was twice married; by his first wife he had six children, and by his second marriage ten, five of whom are living: Marshall, of Chester county; Ezra, of Chester county; Agnes, of Camden, New Jersey; Ezekiel, of Chester county, and William H. M. He died in 1856 at Red Lion, Chester county; his wife died in 1851. The subject of this sketch was educated in the public schools of his native place, and in early life followed droving with his brother. In 1867 he removed to Shamokin and entered the employ of his uncle, the late William H. Marshall, and in the same year located upon his present farm of one hundred forty-five acres, where he has since resided. In 1887 he erected his hot-houses and is engaged, in connection with farming, in the cultivation of roses and carnations for the Philadelphia market. Mr. Baily married in 1863 Sarah, daughter of Elwood and Mary Lamborn, of Chester county, and by this union they are the parents of seven living children: Ella M., wife of Daniel Gerhart; Elwood; Ezekiel; William; John; Er, and Ida. Politically Mr. END OF PAGE 1206 Page 1207 contains a portrait of E. C. Herb. Page 1208 is blank. Baily is a Republican. He is a member of Elysburg Lodge, I.O.O.F., Fairmount Castle, K. of G.E. (of which order he is district grand chief), Washington Camp, P.O.S. of A., and Susquehanna Commandery, No. 9, of Sunbury. Mr. Baily is one of Shamokin township's progressive citizens, alive to all matters of public interest, and commands the respect and esteem of his neighbors. SOLOMON HUMMEL, deceased, was of German ancestry, came to Northumberland county about 1850, and purchased the farm where George Koch now resides. He was a shoemaker by trade, which occupation he followed in connection with farming. He married Hettie, daughter of Frederick Adams, who bore him fourteen children, nine of whom are living. He died in 1882; his wife died the same year. FRANKLIN HUMMEL, farmer, is the fifth child of Solomon and Hettie (Adams) Hummel. He was born, April 23, 1843, in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, where he was reared and educated. He followed the occupation of farming until 1861, when he enlisted in Company F, Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served three years, participating in the following battles: Port Royal, Beaufort, Port Royal Ferry, Acquia, White Sulphur Springs, Centreville, Chantilly, South Mountain, Antietam and the siege of Vicksburg. After the close of his term of enlistment in June, 1864, Mr. Hummel returned home and followed various occupations until 1883, when he purchased his present farm of seventy-five acres, and is now engaged in general farming. He was married, November 6, 1870, to Clara, daughter of Henry Hill, of Ralpho township, and they are the parents of seven children: Sophrona Ellen, deceased; Henry; Edward; Curtis Sylvester; Solomon Joseph; Annie F., and Franklin Albert, deceased. Mr. Hummel is a member of the G.A.R., in religious faith a Lutheran, and in politics a Republican. WILLIAM KUHNS, farmer, was born in Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, in 1837. He is a son of Joseph and Rhoda Kuhns, and spent his early years in Berks and Schuylkill counties. In 1872 he came to Northumberland county and located at Bear Gap, where he found employment as a farmer, which he followed one year and a half. He then removed to Shamokin and engaged in mining and lumbering, in which business he remained until 1881, when he purchased his present farm of one hundred thirty-five acres in Shamokin township. Mr. Kuhns commenced life with very little educational advantages, and nothing to depend upon but his own energy, yet, by hard and honest toil, he has succeeded in acquiring a splendid farm and a comfortable competence. He was married in 1867 to Sarah Hummel, who has borne him seven children: John; William; Mary L.; Edward; George; Charles, and Jacob. Mr. Kuhns is a member of the Catholic church, and an attendant of St. Patrick's church of Trevorton. Politically he is a Republican and one of the enterprising citizens of his township. END OF PAGE 1209 CHARLES PAUL, farmer, was born, October 1, 1845, in Point township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, son of Henry and Euphemia (Huntzwiger) Paul, natives of Lebanon and Northampton counties, Pennsylvania. The father of our subject settled in Point township about 1828, where he purchased a farm. He was a shoemaker by trade and engaged at his trade in connection with his farm. His family consisted of the following children: Mary E., deceased, who married Josiah Newberry; Jamella, widow of John Hamor; Margaret, wife of I. Johnson, of Point township; Isabella, wife of J. Hamor; Robert; John, and Charles. Henry Paul died in 1887, and his wife in 1885. Mr. Paul filled many of the township offices, was a Republican in politics, and in his religious faith was a Lutheran. The subject of our sketch was reared in Point township, educated in the public schools, and spent his early life on the farm. In 1864 he enlisted in Company B, Two Hundred and Tenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. He participated in the battles of Weldon Railroad, Peach Orchard, and Hatcher's Run. After the close of the war he was engaged at various occupations until 1874, when he settled upon his present farm. He was married in 1870 to Alice, daughter of John Fisher, who died in 1888, leaving two sons: John W. and Frank L. Mr. Paul was married in 1889 to Mahala, daughter of George C. Adams. Politically Mr. Paul is a Republican, and has served in the office of school director four years. He is a member of Elysburg Ledge, F. & A.M., and is one of the enterprising citizens of Ralpho township. GEORGE HUDSON, farmer and lumber dealer, was born in Derbyshire, England, October 14, 1846, son of Benjamin and Ellen (Hodie) Hudson, who immigrated to this country about 1850 and settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They were the parents of four daughters and two sons: Emma, widow of William Burrows, of Shamokin, Pennsylvania; Katherine, deceased; Elizabeth, deceased; Rebecca, deceased; John, who remained in England, and George. Benjamin Hudson was a miner by occupation, and worked in the various mines of Northumberland county. He died in 1882, and his wife in 1884. The subject of this sketch commenced the life of a miner at an early age. finding employment in the mines of Shamokin and Trevorton fifteen years, and subsequently engaged in teaming and furnishing prop timber, which he has followed a number of years. In April, 1889, he purchased his farm of one hundred twenty acres in Shamokin township, where he now resides. Mr. Hudson was married in l884 to Alice Hartzog of Shamokin, and by this union they have three children: Benjamin; Archibald, and Elizabeth. Politically Mr. Hudson is a warm Republican, and one of Shamokin townships representative citizens. HENRY M. YORDY, merchant and postmaster, was born in Lower Augusta township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, September 13, 1856, son of William and Catharine (Raker) Yordy. He learned the blacksmith trade, which he followed until 1884; he then located at his present place and en- END OF PAGE 1210 gaged in the blacksmith and wheelwright business, which he carried on until 1889, when he sold the blacksmith business to W. F. Wilhour; he still carries on the wheelwright business. In 1886 he established his mercantile business in connection with H. M. Overdorf, whom he bought out in 1889. Mr. Yordy was appointed postmaster for Stonington postoffice in 1877. Politically he is a Democrat, has filled minor township offices, and is one of the present auditors. He married Rosetta Wilhour, and they are the parents of three sons: William; Calvin, and Edward. Mr. Yordy is a member of Snydertown Lodge, I.O.O.F. ISAAC F. SHIPE, farmer, was born in 1852 in Rockefeller township, Northumberland county, son of Samuel and Lavina (Friling) Shipe. His grandfather, Jacob Shipe, was a native of Berks county, Pennsylvania, and settled in what is now Lower Augusta township, Northumberland county, about 1818. He purchased a farm of two hundred forty acres, upon which he resided until his death. His family consisted of six sons and one daughter. Samuel, father of Isaac F., was the eldest son. He married Lavina Friling, and his family consisted of six children: John; Reuben, deceased; Isaac F.; Henry; Washington, and Louisa C., deceased. Our subject engaged in farming in early manhood and subsequently went into the huckster business, which he followed several years. In 1887 he purchased his present farm of one hundred acres, and has since devoted his attention to agriculture. He was married in 1876 to Silvania Wilkison, and by this union they have had three sons: Samuel, deceased; Guy E., and Isaac. Politically Mr. Shipe is a Republican, and with his wife belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church. JONATHAN VASTINE, deceased, was a native of Bucks county, Pennsylvania, and came to Northumberland county late in the last century. He settled on Shamokin Hill, upon the land where Valentine Epler now resides. He took up six hundred acres. He was a member of the Society of Friends. His family consisted of Benjamin L., who married a Miss Vanzant; John, who married Catharine Osborn,, by whom he had six children: Thomas, William; John; Amos; Margaret, wife of Charles Hefley, and Sarah Ann, wife of Robert Campbell; Jeremiah, who was the third son and married Elizabeth Robins; Thomas, who never married, and Jonathan, who married Nancy Hughes. His two daughters were: Hannah, wife of Peter Vastine, and Mary, wife of a Mr. Marsh. Jonathan, Sr. died about 1836 and was buried in the Friends' cemetery at Catawissa, Pennsylvania. PETER VASTINE, deceased, was born in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, and was a nephew of Jonathan Vastine, a pioneer of Rush township. He settled in Rush township about the same time as his uncle, upon the land where Peter V. Johnson now resides. He purchased three hundred acres and remained there until his death. He married Hannah, daughter of Jonathan Vastine, and their family consisted of the following children: Benjamin; END OF PAGE 1211 Thomas; Jeremiah; Peter; Elizabeth, wife of John Colket; Katherine, deceased; Lydia, wife of Mr. Housel, and Mary, wife of Henry R. Johnson. For many years he conducted a store and mill. He erected the mill now operated by Valentine Epler, and was also extensively engaged in the saw mill business, and was one of the progressive men of his day. He died in 1838. AMOS VASTINE was born in Rush township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, November 18, 1833, son of William and Elizabeth (Hursh) Vastine. He was educated at the common schools and at the Presbyterian Institute, Wyoming, Pennsylvania. He was reared a farmer and subsequently purchased the homestead farm, where he lived nine years. In 1863 he settled upon his present place of two hundred eighty acres. Politically he is a Republican, and has served in the minor township offices. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and has filled the office of trustee fifteen years. He was married in 1855 to Mahala, daughter of Jacob Schultz, of Danville, Pennsylvania, and by this marriage they have had six children, five of whom are living: Lizzie, deceased; William; Mary L., wife of Dr. John Kemerer; John; Ella K., and Amos B. Mr. Vastine is a member of Danville Lodge, F. & A.M., and a gentleman of enterprise and public spirit. ALEXANDER MOORE, deceased, was a native of Sussex county, New Jersey. In 1790 he settled in Rush township upon the land now in possession of Gideon Rothermel. He subsequently purchased three hundred acres where his son Alexander now resides. He married, February 11, 1790, Margaret Albertson, of Sussex county, New Jersey. Their family were: David; Esther, wife of Valentine Iliff; Michael; Jane, wife of William Clark Garrett; Abraham; Margaret, wife of Isaac Eflin; Helen; Alexander; William, and Corinda. He died, November 4, 1859; his wife died in 1856. He was one of the early justices of the peace and filled the office forty years. He was connected for many years with the State militia, and held a commission as major. In religious faith he was a Presbyterian, of which church he was an elder. ALEXANDER MOORE was born upon his present homestead, November 20, 1810, son of Alexander and Margaret (Albertson) Moore. He learned the trade of carpenter, which he followed thirty years. He then engaged in farming, which has since been his occupation. Mr. Moore was twice married; his first wife was Mary, daughter of John Campbell, who bore him two children: Marilla, wife of Uriah Swenk, and Eleanor, deceased. His second wife was Lucinda, daughter of John Hile, who died in 1882, leaving two children: Fidelia A., wife of Benjamin Swenk, and Garrett E., of Sunbury. Mr. Moore has been a life-long Republican. He has filled the office of school director, and is one of the substantial and oldest living residents of Rush township. END OF PAGE 1212 CASPER J. REED, deceased, was born in Shamokin township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, December 29, 1809, son of John Reed. He was a mason by trade, and at one time was engaged in the mercantile business at Snufftown, Pennsylvania, in connection with A. C. Barrett. He also constructed a portion of the old railroad between Sunbury and Shamokin. He subsequently located in Rush township and engaged in farming, purchasing one hundred eighty acres, where he resided until his death in 1885; his wife died in 1889. He was married in 1834 to Alice C., daughter of Nathan Barrett, of Heinsdale, Massachusetts, and by this union they were the parents of thirteen children: Angeline, deceased, who married Doctor Snyder; Gillman; James; Mary A., wife of Peter V. Johnson; Matilda, wife of R. B. Ammerman; Rebecca, wife of Henry Kimbler; Rosetta, wife of Marshall Davison; Alice, wife of D. Rockefeller; Florence, wife of Joseph Gulick; Lafayette; Howard M.; Elizabeth, deceased, and Esther, deceased. JAMES REED was born in Rush township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, in 1839, son of Casper J. and Alice (Barrett) Reed. He was reared upon the old homestead, and his early education was obtained at the common schools and Danville Academy, where he also learned civil engineering. At the age of eighteen he commenced teaching, and followed that occupation eighteen years. In 1862 he was drafted and assigned to the One Hundred and Seventy-second Pennsylvania militia, and served nine months, being first sergeant of Company H. He then returned to Rush township and engaged in farming the homestead, and in 1882 purchased the same. In 1878 Mr. Reed was instrumental in procuring the charter and organizing the Rush Township Fire Insurance Company, and has filled the office of secretary since its organization. He has served in various township offices, and was elected justice of the peace in 1882, and served five years. He married Sarah Sober, of Rush township, in 1871. She died in 1878, leaving two children: Jennie M. and Bessie I. His second wife was Sophia Culp. In politics Mr. Reed is a Republican. SIMON P. REED, farmer, is a son of Jacob and Hannah (Duttinger) Reed. The father of our subject was a son of Jacob Reed, one of the pioneers of Shamokin township. He was born in 1795 in Shamokin township upon the Reed tract at what is now Reed's Station. He was a tanner by trade, also erected one of the early saw mills of Shamokin township, and later in life was a farmer. He filled many minor township offices. He was a Lutheran in faith, of which church he was an elder and deacon many years; in politics he was a Republican, and was one of the sixteen original members of that party in Shamokin township. His family consisted of Daniel, deceased; Maria, wife of George Young; Simon P.; Elizabeth, widow of Jonathan Deibler; Julianne, wife of John Rohrbach; William, and John Jacob. Simon P. was born in 1825 in Shamokin township on the homestead farm. He learned the trade of wool carding, and in 1861 he engaged in the manufactur- END OF PAGE 1213 ing of woolen goods at Reed's Station, which he carried on for twenty years. He then located upon his farm in Rush township, which he had purchased in 1855, and has since been engaged in farming. He was married in 1850 to Jane, daughter of Daniel Campbell, of Shamokin township, and by this union they had six children, four of whom are living: Daniel Jacob; Ambrose Alvernon, who married Harriet A. Berger; Clara E., and Norman C. Politically he is a Republican; he is a member of Jacob's Lutheran church, and is one of the enterprising and leading citizens of Rush township. JOHN PENSYL, deceased, was the eldest son of John and Barbara (Hinkle) Pensyl, and grandson of Jacob Pensyl. He was born upon the old homestead in Ralpho township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania. When a young man he went to Sunbury and learned the shoemaker trade. He subsequently purchased a farm containing two hundred acres at Union Corners in Rush township, where he lived for a number of years; he afterwards purchased the adjoining farm, where he died in 1878. He was twice married. His first wife was Lydia Kaseman, by whom he had six children: George, deceased; John, of Rush township; Barbara, deceased wife of Henry Hill, of Shamokin township; Hannah, twice married, her first husband being Charles Dimick and the second Frederick Hiney; Catharine, wife of James Matter, who lives at Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Samuel, of Danville. Mr. Pensyl married as his second wife Mary, daughter of John Arter, of Shamokin, who died, November 18, 1890, at the home of her son, Adam, of Rush township. By this marriage they had seven children: Jacob, deceased; William, of Ralpho township; Samuel, of Rush township; Margaret, deceased; Adam, of Rush township; Henry, deceased, and Francis, of Columbia county. SAMUEL PENSYL, farmer, is the third son of John and Mary Pensyl, and was born, October 13, 1837, upon the homestead in Rush township, Northumberland county. He received a common school education, and spent his early life working upon the farm for his father until he arrived at the age of twenty-eight years. In 1865 he married Julia, daughter of John Vought, and they are the parents of four children: Elwood, who died when four years old; Dora E., a student at Kee-Mar College, Hagerstown, Maryland; John, who died when ten months old, and Dallas G., now a student in the Danville Academy. In 1869 Mr. Pensyl purchased his present farm of one hundred fifty acres. Politically he is a Democrat, and a member of the Lutheran church. SOLOMON PENSYL was born in Ralpho township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, October 25, 1831, son of George and Mary (Keller) Pensyl. He was reared a farmer and lived upon the homestead until he was twenty years old, when he worked for his uncle, George Keller, six years. He then, in connection with his uncle, purchased a farm in Shamokin township, where he lived eight years, after which he sold his interest and purchased his pres- END OF PAGE 1214 ent place of one hundred forty acres. In politics Mr. Pensyl is a stanch Democrat, and has served in the minor township offices; in religion is a member of the German Reformed church. He married in 1856 Caroline, daughter of Samuel Epler, and by this union they have had four children: Mary E., deceased wife of B. Vought; Sallie A., wife of George Yocum; Hatty S., and Harry W., deceased. WILLIAM METTLER, deceased, a native of Hunterdon, New Jersey, settled at Klinesgrove, Rush township, at an early date, upon the land now in possession of Elliott Eckman. He purchased about three hundred eighteen acres of land, where he remained until his death in 1848. He married, in New Jersey, Elizabeth Apgar, who died in February, 1876, by whom he had thirteen children: Katherine, deceased, who married Robert Campbell; Hannah, wife of William Price; William, deceased, who married Jane Kline; Eleanor, deceased, who married Philip Huff; Eliza, wife of J. F. Kline; George, deceased; Isaac, deceased; Lorenzo, deceased; John, deceased; Sarah, who married Charles Gerhart, and after his death Aaron Runyon; Nancy, who was twice married, first to William Carr and subsequently to Daniel Beckley; Susan, wife of Dewitt Kline, and Enoch. LORENZO METTLER, the fourth son of William and Elizabeth (Apgar) Mettler, was born in 1821, in Rush township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, and was educated in the old log school house of that time. He remained upon the homestead farm until twenty-one years old, when he purchased the John Deibler farm in Shamokin township, where he lived until 1854, when he purchased the farm where William Mettler, his son, now resides. He was a man who interested himself in public affairs, and served in the different township offices. In politics he was a Republican, and in religions belief a Methodist. He married Permelia, daughter of Charles Wolverton of Augusta, now Rockefeller township, who died in 1860. They were the parents of eight children, three of whom lived to maturity: Charles W., who was a member of Company K, Forty- sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and died in Tennessee, in the service; William H., and Margaret L., wife of J. C. Campbell. In 1861 he married Matilda E. Eckman, of Upper Augusta township, by whom three children were born to them, none of whom lived to maturity. Mr. Mettler died in 1889; his widow survives him and resides with her stepson, William H. WILLIAM H. METTLER, the only surviving son of Lorenzo and Permelia (Wolverton) Mettler, was born in 1848 in Shamokin township. He was reared upon the farm and educated in the common schools. In 1874 he purchased a farm in Rush township, where he remained until 1881, when he removed to where he now resides. In 1873 he married Julia, daughter of Daniel Krigbaum, and they are the parents of six children: Lorenzo P.; Elizabeth J.; William K.; Sarah P.; John D., and Rachel R. Mr. Mettler is engaged in the cultivation of a farm of two hundred twenty-eight acres. END OF PAGE 1215 In early life he taught school a number of years, and has filed the office of school director three years. Politically he is a Republican, and is one of the leading citizens of Rush township. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, filling the office of steward, and is also a member of the P. of H. of Rush township. SAMUEL GILLINGER, deceased, a native of Berks county, Pennsylvania, settled at Paxinos at an early date. He kept hotel there for many years. His family consisted of John; Jeremiah; Samuel; William, and Sarah, wife of James Dunlap. Samuel, Jr., was born in Shamokin township and was a shoemaker by trade. He settled in Rush township when a young man and followed his trade for some years. He subsequently purchased the farm where his son Martin W. now resides. He married Katherine Weaver, and by this union they had the following children: Eugene K.; Martha W.; Susan, wife of James Harris; Lucy A., wife of M. Salter; Mary E.; E. Tibley; Martha, wife of S. P. Enterline; Jeremiah; Matilda, wife of William Davison; Sarah, wife of Jacob Tribley, and Katherine, wife of Hugh H. Campbell Politically Samuel, Jr., was a Republican, and a member of the Baptist church. EUGENE K. GILLINGER, son of Samuel and Katherine (Weaver) Gillinger, and grandson of Samuel the pioneer, was born February 26, 1832, in Rush township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, and educated in the common schools. He learned the wagon maker trade and has followed it as an occupation. In 1861 he purchased his present farm of sixty-three acres. He was married in 1856 to Elsie Campbell, who died, June 10, 1889, leaving one son, Samuel E. Mr. Gillinger has filled several minor township offices. He is a member of Shamokin Valley Lodge, I.O.O.F., and in religious faith he is a Baptist, of which church he is a member. Politically he is a Republican. VALENTINE EPLER was born in Shamokin township, Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, in 1843, son of Samuel and Mary (Zimmerman) Epler. He was educated in the common schools and followed the life of a farmer until 1861, when he enlisted in Company K, Forty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served three years and eleven months. At the battle of Winchester he was taken prisoner and sent to Belle Isle, where he was kept four months, after which he was exchanged. He then returned to his regiment and was detailed to the quartermaster department, in which he served until the close of the war. In 1866 he settled upon his present farm. In 1889 he purchased the Logan Run mill, which he is operating in connection with his farm. He married Ellen, daughter of Reuben Snyder, of Shamokin township, and by this union they have had ten children, eight of whom are living: Reuben; Harry S.; Mary J.; Sallie E.; Flora L.; John C.; Francis H., and George M. Mr. Epler has filed several township offices. Politically he is a Democrat, and in religious faith a German Reformed, and is a member of Jacob's church of Ralpho township. END OF PAGE 1216 PETER V. JOHNSON was born in Rush township, Northumberland Pennsylvania, son of Henry B. and Mary (Vastine) Johnson. His father was a millwright and followed that business in his younger life, but in after years he engaged in farming. His family consisted of eight children, six of whom grew to maturity: Jackson B., who was killed in the army and buried near Hagerstown, Maryland; Thomas J., who enlisted in 1862, in Company C, One Hundred and Thirty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served nine months, participating in the battles of South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, and the Wilderness; Peter V.; Lydia, widow of Jesse Conway; Ann, wife of J S. Bassett, and Katharine, wife of T. W. Campbell. Peter V. Johnson was educated in the common schools, and taught school during his early life, but is now a farmer. He married Mary A., daughter of Casper J. Reed. Politically he is a Republican. END OF CHAPTER LI.