Floyd's Northumberland County Genealogy Pages 850 thru 874 File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by Tony Rebuck. Tar2@psu.edu Electronic edition copyright 2001 by Tony Rebuck. All rights reserved. This electronic work may be freely distributed and displayed: (1)without modification, (2) on a strictly non-commercial basis, and (3) retaining this copyright notice. USGENWEB NOTICE: Printing this file within 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. WILLIAM R. IRVIN, furniture dealer and undertaker at Mount Carmel, is one of the leading men in his line of business in this section of Pennsylvania. He has owned his fine store in the borough since 1906, and previous to that for several years was in partnership with his father in the same establishment, so though but a young man he has had long and valuable experience and is well fitted to conduct the business along the most approved lines. Mr. Irvin's grandfather was born in England and on coming to America settled at Wilmington, Del. Richard B. Irvin, his father, located at Centralia, Columbia Co., Pa., where he was employed at the mines for a time. Later he came to Mount Carmel, where he learned cabinet making, and in 1870 he engaged in business as a cabinet maker at what is now the corner of Oak and Avenue streets. There he constructed the first two hearses he built the first a very crude affair, the second a substantial vehicle which his son still uses in making long trips. Mr. Irvin continued to be active in the business until he sold out to his son in 1906 and retired, now making his home at Germantown, Philadelphia. He married Ellen Wier. William R. Irvin was born Aug. 8, 1877, at Mount Carmel and received his education. at that place, graduating from the high school in 1896. He then entered the Pittsburg College of Embalming, where he remained for a year, fitting himself thoroughly for his life work. Returning to Mount Carmel he was his father's assistant from END OF PAGE 850 that time, in 1897 becoming a partner in the business, which, as previously stated, he bought from his father in 1906. His fine store, located at Nos. 29-31 North Oak street, has a larger stock of furniture than any other establishment of the kind between Williamsport and Reading, and he does the largest furniture business in his part of the state. His goods are up-to-date and of high quality, and his patrons appreciate the fact that they can obtain as desirable a selection, at reasonable expenditure, as the stores in the larger cities afford. Like his father, Mr. Irvin takes a pride in making his house a synonym for the best of everything in the furniture and undertaking line, and his efforts have been rewarded with a class and volume of trade creditable alike to him and to the community in which his business is carried on. Mr. Irvin married Gertrude Davis, of Shamokin, this county, and to them have been born three children: William D., Margaret and Richard. Socially Mr. Irvin belongs to the Elks, the Odd Fellows (and Rebekah degree), the P.O.S. of A. and the Masons, in the latter connection holding membership in Mount Carmel Lodge, No. 378, F. & A.M., Griscomb Chapter, R.A.M., and Prince of Peace Chapter, of Ashland, Pennsylvania. CHARLES A. SENSENBACH, of Sunbury, has been in the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company for over thirty years, and since the year 1895 has been foreman of the blacksmith department at Sunbury, being a master blacksmith. He was born April 6, 1861, at McEwensville, Northumberland county, son of Charles Sensenbach. Godfrey Sensenbach was a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, and came to Pennsylvania via New York, accompanied by his cousin Charles Sensenbach. They were redemptioners. At New York they were purchased by a man named Knauss, from Bath, Northampton Co., Pa., to serve for their passage. They afterward decided to remain with him, and did so for some years. Charles Sensenbach never married. Godfrey Sensenbach succeeded his employer as butcher, and after Mr. Knauss's death continued butchering at Bath, Pa., until after the building of the Lehigh canal. He then sold out the business and moved to Rockport, Carbon Co., Pa., where he engaged in the mercantile, hotel and boatbuilding business until the panic of 1857, which caused him to fail. After the panic he took his son-in-law, Charles Deterline, into partnership, but the freshet of 1862 wiped out their establishment. Godfrey Sensenbach was tall and well built and was a man of ability and energy. He was a member of the Reformed Church. His wife died about 1860, and he died during the early sixties, aged eighty years, he is buried at Trexlertown, Pa. A large family was born to this couple William; John; Israel; Jacob, who located in Northumberland county; Charles, who located in Northumberland county; Daniel; Stephen; Joseph; James; Sallie, who married George Heil; Polly, who became the second wife of George Heil and lived at Trexlertown; and Hose, who married Charles Deterline. Joseph, of Freeland, Pa., alone survives. Charles Sensenbach was a native of Northampton county, Pa., born Aug. 8, 1820. He came thence to Northumberland county, and after living in McEwensville moved to Sunbury, remaining in that borough until 1871. He died at Sunbury July 27, 1878, and is buried at McEwensville. In his earlier life Mr. Sensenbach was a cabinet maker, and he subsequently followed the trade of painter. During his residence in Sunbury he became quite well known, serving as member of the council from the old West ward. He was a Republican in politics and a Lutheran in religion. His wife, Rosanna Aralia (Gold), daughter of David Gold, of McEwensville (who followed farming and operated a grist mill), died Sept. 8, 1875, aged forty-eight years, three months. They were the parents of fourteen children: Cloyd; Elizabeth, married to Daniel Paden; Emma, married to D. C. Blank; James; Augusta; Charles A.; Elmer; David; and six who died young. All this family were born at McEwensville. Charles A. Sensenbach received his education in the public schools near his home. In 1880 he began learning the trade of blacksmith in the shops of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, whose employ he had entered in April, 1879, and after finishing his apprenticeship continued as journeyman for eleven years, being promoted to his present responsible position in 1895. As foreman of the blacksmith department he has thirty- five men under his direction. Mr. Sensenbach commands the respect of his associates and the esteem of his fellow citizens generally, and their confidence in his integrity and ability was shown in his election as councilman of the Fourth ward, in which position he served two years. He has lived in Sunbury since 1871. Mr. Sensenbach married Adalaid Rhoads, daughter of William and Hannah K. Rhoads, and sister of Walton F. Rhoads, cashier of the First National Bank of Sunbury. Four children have been born to this union: William H. died in infancy; Walton F. R. graduated from the Sunbury high school in 1903 and is now employed as a blacksmith by the Pennsylvania Railroad Company (he is a member of the Masonic fraternity); Cloyd R. had both legs cut off in an accident on the railroad and died five hours later, when fifteen years old; Rachel is the only daughter. Mr. Sensenbach and his family are members of Zion's Lutheran Church END OF PAGE 851 at Sunbury. He is a Republican in political matters, and is interested in the success of the party. He gives his support to all worthy movements, particularly those affecting the advancement of his own community. GEORGE W. TURNER, Jr., proprietor of the Paxinos Hotel, was born in 1870 in Longton, England, son of George W. and Annie (Robinson) Turner. His grandfather died in that country at the age of 106 years. George W. Turner, the father, was born in England, where he owned a coal wharf and also engaged in horse dealing. In 1876 he came to America with his family, landing at Philadelphia, and he has lived in Northumberland and Schuylkill counties, at present residing on a farm in the latter county, near Mowry postoffice. He followed mining for some time and also dealt in horses. He married Annie Robinson, daughter of Colonel Robinson, who gained considerable fame because of the part he took in the Sack war in England. Mrs. Turner was born on the ocean while the family were en route to India, in which country she remained until fourteen years old, when she went to England. Mr. and Mrs. Turner have had nine children: Mary, Annie, George W., John H., William, Edith, Martha, Lillie and Elmer. George W. Turner, Jr., came to America with his parents. After beginning work he was employed at the mines for some time and then engaged in the butcher business and the baking business which he followed until 1909. That year he erected the fine apartment building at Nos. 30-32 Market street Shamokin, known as the Turner building, which contains forty-five fine rooms; Mr. Turner has a theater on the first floor of the building, which has been well patronized ever since it was opened. The location is excellent, and adds considerably to the value of the structure, which has proved a good investment. On April 9, 1910, Mr. Turner became proprietor of the "Paxinos Hotel" a well known establishment one of the best known hotel stands in the county. He is a member of the Independent Fire Company. On Feb. 16, 1891, Mr. Turner married Sarah C. Neumeister, daughter of Charles and Elmira (Yoder) Neumeister, and they have two children, Sylvia V. (married to William E. Haines) and George L. MIKE MILLER, of Sunbury, has been a resident of that borough since 1901 and during the few years of his location there has established a prosperous business. As a wholesale dealer in iron, metal, rags, paper, etc., he is one of the most successful dealers in his line in this section of the state, having a large establishment between Seventh and Eighth streets and the Shamokin branch of the Pennsylvania and Philadelphia & Reading railroads, and he also conducts a clothing and men's furnishings store. Mr. Miller was born April 7, 1872, in Riga, Russia, of which place his father, Matthias Miller, was also a native, born in 1848. The father came to America in 1888 and was engaged as a fruit dealer in Reading, Berks Co., Pa., having a store on North Ninth street until his death, which occurred in 1890. He is buried in the Jewish cemetery at the Green Tree, in Cumru township, Berks county. His wife, Annie (Conn), also from Russia, still resides in Reading, now (1910) sixty-nine years old. She is familiarly and affectionately called "Grandma Miller" by many in that city. Mr. and Mrs. Matthias Miller had children as follows: Benjamin, who lives at Danville, Pa.; Minnie, married to Morris Brody, of Reading; Mike; Jacob, of Danville; and William, who died in Denver, Colo., and is buried in Cumru township, Berks county. Mike Miller came to America with his parents in 1888, the family arriving in December. He began life in Reading as a peddler of clothing, traveling all over Berks and Montgomery counties, and was thus engaged for twelve years. In 1901 he came to Sunbury and embarked in his present line of business, dealing in all kinds of junk. Mr. Miller has extended his business until it is now one of the largest of the kind in this part of Pennsylvania, twelve men being regularly employed. In 1907 he erected a three-story building, 32x80 feet at the location above mentioned, the site of his place of business being a tract 150 by 200 feet in dimensions. Mr. Miller opened up a clothing and men's furnishings store at No. 347 Market street Sunbury, in April, 1911. He has prospered by industry, excellent management and a spirit of enterprise which has well merited the reward it has won. He is a substantial and respected citizen and has the good will of all who know him. Mr. Miller was naturalized March 21, 1895, before the late Judge James N. Ermentrout of Reading, is a Democrat in political opinion and quite active in the local councils of the party. Fraternally he belongs to the Owls, the F.O.E., Germania Lodge, I.O.O.F.; the Conclave and the Encampment. On Aug. 1, 1897, Mr. Miller married Rebecca Fink, daughter of Morris and Annie Fink, of Reading, formerly of Russia, and to them has been born a family of eight children, six sons and two daughters, namely: Morris, Matthias, Nathan, Molly, Solomon, Abraham, and Sarah and Saul twins. PATRICK KEARNEY, one of the oldest residents of Shamokin, now living retired, has been a citizen of that place since 1850. He is a veteran of the Civil war. END OF PAGE 852 Mr. Kearney was born March 15, 1828, in County Mayo, Ireland, son of Patrick and Bridget (Carey) Kearney, farming people of that county. The father lived and died there. His children were: Mathew, who died in Shamokin, Pa.; Mary, wife of John Devitt; Patrick; John, who died young, in Ireland; Catherine, wife of Patrick Carey; Bridget, who died young, in Ireland; and Belinda. Patrick Kearney came to America when nineteen years old, landing at Boston May 2, 1847, and during his first fourteen months in this country remained in the State of Massachusetts. He then came to Pennsylvania, first locating at Scranton, where he lived for two years before settling in Shamokin, in June, 1850. For thirty-five years after coming to Shamokin Mr. Kearney was engaged at mining, for several years working in the Enterprise colliery, owned by the late Thomas Baumgardner, of Lancaster. He then engaged in business on his own account as a bottler, and was also in the hotel business, continuing same until his retirement in 1903. His home is at Webster and Pearl streets, Shamokin. Mr. Kearney has led an industrious and useful life, and is highly respected. On Nov. 5, 1861, Mr. Kearney enlisted, at Harrisburg, Pa., in Company D, 52d Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and served three years in the Civil war, participating in twenty-two battles, among which were: Williamsburg, May 5, 1862; Fair Oaks, May 31, 1862; the Seven Days' Fight, including Mechanicsville (June 26), Savage Station (June 29), White Oak Swamp (June 30), and Malvern Hill (July 1). The command then went to Harrison Landing, July 2, remaining there until Aug. 16, then to Yorktown, where they remained until Dec. 29; and south to Morehead City, N. C., and to Hilton Head, S. C. On July 10, 1863, Mr. Kearney accompanied the command to Morris Island, under General Gilmore, taking part of the island, after which they were engaged in the capture of Fort Sumpter, and on Sept. 7, 1863, failed in the attempt to take Forts Wagner and Gregg. They next went to Fort Johnson, July 3, 1864, at James Island, S. C., and Mr. Kearney was one of fifty-four men from his company who went out with a lieutenant one night on a hazardous undertaking, the danger of which may be judged from the fact that only seven returned alive. Leaving Morris Island Nov. 9, 1864, he went to Hilton Head, where he received his discharge Nov. 15, 1864. He had the unusual honor of having his discharge papers signed by Commanding Officer Gen. John George Foster. Mr. Kearney was promoted to corporal in August 1862, after the Seven Days' Fight. He arrived al his home in Shamokin Nov. 19, 1864, with an honorable record, and without having suffered injury in his long term of service. On Dec. 14, 1848, Mr. Kearney was married to Miss Catharine McAndrew, daughter of William McAndrew. She passed away July 27, 1892, at the age of sixty-two years, and is buried in St. Edward's cemetery. Ten children were born to this union: Mary, who married James Laughlin and (second) Patrick Hennesay; Bridget, who is the wife of James Phelan; Cecelia, wife of Edward Earley; Catharine, at home; William A., of Shamokin; Annie, at home; Margaret, who died in infancy; Patrick, who married Alice B. Bittenbender, of Shamokin; Eleanora, wife of Dr. John Loftus, living in Denver, Colo.; and Agnes, wife of Henry J. Tanner, of Shamokin. Mr. Kearney is a member of Lincoln Post No. 140, G.A.R. He is a Catholic in religious faith, holding membership in St. Edward's Church. EDWARD HARVEY FALCK, an enterprising young farmer of Upper Mahanoy township, occupies the farm there settled by his great-grand-father, Jacob Falck, in the early days. The Falck family is a numerous one in eastern Pennsylvania, where the name is variously spelled, Folck, Folk and Falk being variations of the original form. For many years it has been especially well represented in Berks county, where the Federal Census Report for 1790 shows George Folk, Sr., and George Folk, Jr., another George Folk, Jacob, John, two other Johns, Johan William, Joseph, Sr., and Joseph, Jr.; Peter and Philip Folk, a total of twelve heads of families there. The same authority records the names of Frederick Folk of Philadelphia; Daniel Folk of Chester county; Stephen Folk, of Cumberland county; and a George Folk of Weisenburg township, Northampton (now Lehigh) county, from which latter descends the Northumberland county branch of the family. This George Folk had (in 1790) five sons and four daughters, one of these sons being Jacob, who is said to have settled in Mahanoy township, Northumberland county. Jacob Falck was born April 14, 1782, in Lehigh county, Pa., and came to Northumberland county about 1804, locating in what is now Upper Mahanoy (then Mahanoy) township, on the farm now owned by his great- grandson, Edward Harvey Falck. This tract of eighty acres was all woodland at that time, and Mr. Falck built a small log house about three rods north of the site of the present residence. That house served as a dwelling for about fifty years, and the original barn, which stood about two rods east of the present residence, served until 1828, in which year the present barn was built; some of the wood from the first structure was used in the construction of the new one. Jacob Falck died Dec. 25, 1856, and is buried at St. John's Church. On his tombstone the name is spelled "Folk," but his descendants chose to write the name differently, most of END OF PAGE 853 them spelling it Falck; one grandson, Richard, writes it Falk. The maiden name of Jacob's wife was Raubenhold and she was from Snyder county. She is buried at the Himmel Church. Their children were Solomon; Lydia, Mrs. Snyder; Sallie, Mrs. Abraham Fegley; and John, who died young. Solomon Falck, son of Jacob, was born in 1808 in Upper Mahanoy township, where his grandson Edward H. Falck now lives, and owned that farm, following agricultural pursuits all his life. He built the present dwelling there, now occupied by his grandson and family. An active and enterprising citizen, he served many years as supervisor of his township and was also a member of the school board. He was prominent in the Reformed congregation of St. John's Church, being one of its working members, served in various official capacities, and as a member of the building committee did his share when the present church edifice was erected, in 1853. His family also worshipped with that congregation. In politics he was a Democrat. His death occurred in 1887. On March 25, 1828, Mr. Falck married Salome Geist, daughter of Andrew Geist, and they were the parents of eighteen children, viz.: Daniel, born in 1830 (now living in California); Andraes, October, 1831; Carolina; 1833; Edward, 1834; Mary, 1835; Sarah Ann, 1838; Salome, 1839; Johannes, 1841; Molly, 1842; Solomon, 1843; Amanda, 1848; Jesse, 1850; Jacob, 1851; Richard, 1855; and Harriet and three others who died young. Of this family, Richard Folk (as he spells the name), born at Greenbrier, Northumberland county, Jan. 8, 1855, obtained his education in the public schools of the township and when twenty years old commenced to learn cigar-making, which trade he followed for thirteen years, in Philadelphia and in Snyder county, Pa. He resides in Upper Mahanoy township at present. He married and has two children, Lloyd and John. John Falck, son of Solomon, was born Sept. 25, 1841, on the homestead farm in Upper Mahanoy township, and obtained his education in the local subscription schools, the only educational institutions of the day in that section. He was reared to farm work from boyhood, and for many years was engaged hauling lime during the winters. In 1866 he began farming on his own account, on the old homestead, of which he retained the ownership until 1907, on Thanksgiving Day of which year he moved to his present home, on the road between Rebuck and Leck Kill. He is now living retired, having been in poor health since May, 1903. Mr. Falck has always led an industrious life, tending exclusively to his own affairs and refusing offers of public preferment, although he was active in church work. He and his family worship at St. John's Church, where he held office as deacon and elder for twenty years in succession. In 1867 he married Lovina Schreffler, daughter of John and Salome (Rebuck) Schreffler, and they have had a large family, viz.: Cora married William Derrick, of Shamokin; Oscar is a resident of Shamokin; William S. is mentioned below; Ella is deceased; Jane married Frank Engel, of Sunbury, this county; Emma is deceased; one son died in infancy; Edward Harvey is mentioned below; Addie is the wife of John Reitz; Flora is deceased; Sallie married Francis Oxenreider. William S. Falck was born on the homestead June 27, 1874, and was reared there, meantime receiving his early education in the public schools of the district. Later he attended the academy at Berrysburg. In 1901 he began farming for himself, in that year purchasing his present farm, a tract of fifty acres in Upper Mahanoy township, on the road between Rebuck and Leck Kill. He has lived there since 1898. In the early days it was a Rhone homestead, later owned by Jacob Kauffman, from whom John Falck purchased it; William S. Falck acquired it from his father. He has made various improvements on the property since it came into his ownership, and he is one of the substantial and reliable agriculturists of his locality. He has served his township six years in the capacity of assessor. On Sept. 16, 1898, he married Katie Schoffstall, daughter of David and Hannah (Snyder) Schoffstall, and they have had six children: Charles H., Gladys H., Florence E., John D., Harry D. and Hannah L. Mr. Falck and his family worship at St. John's Church, of which he is a Reformed member, and Mrs. Falck a, Lutheran member. He served four years as deacon. In politics Mr. Falck is a Democrat. Edward Harvey Falck was born March 12, 1880, on the farm in Upper Mahanoy township which he now owns and cultivates. He was educated in the public schools of his district and was brought up a farmer, working for his father until he attained his majority. In the spring of 1908 he began farming on the old Falck homestead, which he purchased that year from his father, the property being a valuable and fertile tract of eighty acres. He is an energetic and progressive man, and has done excellent work on this land, which shows the good care it receives. On Jan. 20, 1906, Mr. Falck married Agnes Brown, daughter of Adam and Sarah (Brown) Brown, of Upper Mahanoy township, and they have one son, Harvey Lester. Mr. and Mrs. Falck are Reformed members of St. John's church, which he is at present serving as deacon. JOSEPH LAMBRIGHT, a farmer of Rockefeller township who has made his home there since shortly after his arrival in this country from Germany, is a self-made man who has won prosperity and standing by his own industry, and his honorable position in the community shows how well his END OF PAGE 854 fellow citizens there think he deserves his reward. He was born July 5, 1865, in Wurtemberg, Germany, of which kingdom his parents, Wendling and Elizabeth (Gans) Lambright, were also natives. They were farming people, and lived and died in Wurtemberg. Of their ten children, six still survive: John is living on the old homestead in Germany; Josephine, Mary and Caroline are married and living in Germany; we have no record of Carl. Joseph Lambright grew to manhood in his native land. At the age of seventeen he came to America, landing at New York City on August 24, 1882, and thence proceeding to Philadelphia, where he remained two days. He was next at Lock Haven, Pa., for two weeks, thence going to Renovo, Pa., where he found work in the car shops and continued for two years. He has since lived in Rockefeller township, Northumberland county. He entered the employ of John Wirt, a farmer, with whom he remained for fifteen years, ten years before his marriage and five years afterward, his three sons having been born on the Wirt farm. In 1899 he purchased his present place of seventy acres in Rockefeller township, where he follows general farming. Mr. Lambright commenced life in this country with no capital but his honesty and industry, but he has done well, his energy and good management having brought him prosperity and the respect of all who know him. He is at present serving his second term as school director of his township, and has been a valued member of the Reformed congregation at Zion's Union Church, Augustaville, having served many years as a member of the church council. His family are also members of that church. In politics Mr. Lambright is a Republican. On Dec. 25, 1893, Mr. Lambright married Harriet Raker, daughter of George and Eliza (Yordy) Raker, and to them have been born four children, three sons and one daughter: Ralph, who died when two years old; two sons that died in infancy; and Mary E. THE RAKER FAMILY, of which Mrs. Lambright is a member, formerly lived in Montgomery county, Pa., and was for some time located at the "Block" House" in the Wyoming Valley. After the danger of Indian attacks had passed three brothers, James, George and Dr. John Raker, settled in Augusta (now Rockefeller) township, Northumberland county. Jacob Raker, born May 1, 1788, died in Rockefeller township Aug. 19, 1851. He married Mrs. Mary (Krissinger) Long, who hailed from Berks county, and was the widow of Daniel Long's father. She was born Aug. 13, 1782, and died Feb. 15, 1848. Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Raker had the following children: Jacob, who died suddenly; Solomon; George J., who lived and died near Seven Points, in Rockefeller township; Lovina, Mrs. Daniel Malick; Mrs. Henry Keiser; and Mrs. John Hoover. Solomon Raker, son of Jacob, died Feb. 6, 1897, aged seventy-five years, eleven months, ten days. His first wife, Elizabeth (Dornsife), died Nov. 28, 1878, aged fifty-six years, six months, twenty-one days, and he subsequently married the widow of Paul Hollenbach. Six children were born of the first marriage: Elias (1843-1864), who died at Hampton (Va.) hospital from wounds received in battle while serving in the Civil war; John; Martin (1852-1907), who married Louisa Conrad (1852-1902); Susan, Mrs. Jesiah Dunkelberger; Mary, Mrs. Emanuel Conrad; and Harriet, who died unmarried. One daughter, Gertrude, was born to the second union. George Raker, the second of the three brothers mentioned, had children as follows: Jonathan, who lived and died at Sunbury; George; Samuel; Daniel; Peter; Catharine, Mrs. William Yordy; and Sarah, who never married. George Raker, son of George, was born Nov. 16, 1831, and died May 18, 1894, aged sixty-two years, six months, two days. He married Eliza Yordy, who was born July 5, 1830, daughter of Joel and Rebecca (Hummel) Yordy, and though past eighty is well preserved, mentally and physically. She is living with her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Lambright. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. George Raker; Isaac, who died in his eighth year; Lafayette, who died in his fourth year, these sons passing away within a week; Harriet, Mrs. Joseph Lambright; and Wilson, who married Mary Jane Reitz, and died Oct. 8, 1900, aged thirty-two years, six months, four days. Dr. John Raker, brother of Jacob and George, was born Nov. 6, 1805, and died April 12, 1875. A large monument marks his resting-place at Zion's Church, Augustaville. His wife Sarah, daughter of William Bartholomew, was born March 12, 1812, and died Oct. 14, 1885. She, too, is buried at the Augustaville Church. They resided at Augustaville, in Rockefeller township, and he had a large practice, having a high reputation as a competent and skillful "old school" practitioner. Their children were: Dr. William, who died in August, 1910, at Uniontown, Pa.; Kate, wife of Azariah Kreeger; Dr. Henry Morris, who died June 19, 1908, aged sixty-eight years, one month, twenty-four days; and Lizzie, who died unmarried in 1909. JAMES H. SMITH, foreman in the blacksmith shop of the American Car and Foundry Company, and the oldest employee of that company in point of service at Milton, Pa., was born in Turbut township, Northumberland county, Sept. 28, 1848, son of James B. Smith. James Smith, his grandfather, was a native of Northampton county, Pa., where he followed farming near Bangor, and where he died. He married END OF PAGE 855 Margaret Smith, who also died in Northampton county. They had four children, namely: Mary, who died unmarried; Isabella, who married Samuel Horn; Elizabeth, who married John Pysher; and James R. James R. Smith, son of James and father of James H., was born in Northampton county, and in his young manhood learned the blacksmith's trade. After his marriage he came to Northumberland county, and settling in Turbut township, there followed farming for several years. He then located in Milton and here resumed work at his trade, continuing at it during the remainder of his active days. He died at Milton and is buried in the Upper Cemetery. He married Margaret Young, who was born in Northampton county, and died in Milton. They became the parents of the following children: Ellen E., who married Samuel Long, and has three children, Frank M. (of Milton, and a Past Master of Milton Lodge No. 256, F. & A.M.), Laura S. and Charles; James H.; Mary E., unmarried; Clara A. who married Frank Hinshelwood, and lives at Seattle, Wash.; Josephine, who married Frank Bond, of Philadelphia; and Luther C., of Selinsgrove, who has a son Frank. James H. Smith attended the public schools of Turbut township and at Milton, and in his sixteenth year began to learn the trade of blacksmith at the car shops. This was in 1863, and in 1878 be became foreman of that department a position he has held ever since. It is given to but few men to work for their entire active life for one company, and this speaks in highest terms of both employer and employee. Mr. Smith, it goes without saying, is a skilled workman, faithful in the performance of his work, and loyal to his company. Mr. Smith is a prominent Mason. He was master of Milton Lodge No. 256, F. & A.M., in 1877; is past high priest of Warrior Run Chapter No. 246, R.A.M., Watsontown; member of Mt. Hermon Commandery, No. 85, K. T., Sunbury Adoniram Council, No. 26, Williamsport; and Williamsport Consistory, 32d degree. In 1879 he became treasurer of the Blue Lodge, and that office he has filled without intermission to the present time. On the twenty-fifth anniversary of his election the Lodge presented him with a beautiful gold Masonic ring. In other ways Mr. Smith has given testimony of his right to he termed a good citizen. He has been a most valuable member of the Board of Health, and has freely given of his time to the furthering of every movement tending toward the moral and material growth of his town. In his religious faith he is a Methodist and for twenty-seven years served as treasurer of the Church, and for the long period of thirty-three years he has been secretary of the Sunday school. He never married. JOHN A. CROSS, coal and ice dealer of Sunbury, Northumberland county, has been engaged in that business from early manhood and enjoys a prosperous trade, which he has built up by honorable dealing and satisfactory service. He was born in Sunbury April 7, 1874, and is a son of George W. Cross. Mr. Cross's great-grandparents lived in the Mohawk Valley, near Troy, N. Y., and died when comparatively young, leaving three children: Dennis, a farmer, who settled in Bradford county, Pa., and there married a Miss Webster (he is buried near his old homestead); Hannah B., Mrs. Connors, who lived in northern New York; and Augustus. Augustus Cross, grandfather of John A. Cross, was born in 1811 near Troy, N. Y., and was a small boy when his parents died. About 1840 he moved from New York State to Pennsylvania, making the journey with teams, and settled in Bradford county, where he passed the remainder of his life, dying in 1882. He was a farmer, owning a small farm, where he spent all his later years, previous to which he had also followed shoemaking and stone masonry. He held local office, and was a useful citizen. Mr. Cross married Margaret Teller Whitlock, who was born in 1819, and died in 1890, and they are buried in Canton township, Bradford county. They had ten children, as follows: Hannah F., Catharine M., Margaret J., Thomas D., William D., George W., Perkins A., Mary B., Phoebe A. and Imogene. Mrs. Margaret Teller (Whitlock) Cross was one of the descendants of Anneke Jans, heirs to the famous estate including the Trinity Church property, in New York City, which has so long been a matter of dispute. George W. Cross, son of Augustus, was born Sept. 3, 1847, in Canton township, Bradford Co., Pa., received his education in the public schools there, and worked on the farm until 1863. Then, though only sixteen years old, he enlisted for service in the Civil war, becoming a member of Company C, 30th Regiment, Pennsylvania Emergency Men, with which he served six weeks during the emergency. He was at Carlisle the night the Confederates burned the barracks. Returning home to the farm, he remained there until February, 1864, when be enlisted in Company B, 8th Pennsylvania Cavalry, serving as a private in that command under Grant and Gregg, from the battle of the Wilderness to Appomattox. He received his second honorable discharge Aug. 20, 1865. Mr. Cross went back to the farm, and worked at agricultural pursuits and in the lumber woods until May 1, 1871, when he came to Sunbury and at once entered the employ of the Pennsylvania Railway Company, as brakeman. The following year he became a fireman, and in 1879 was made engineer, serving as such until incapacitated by blindness, brought on by nervous dyspepsia, in 1906. Mr. END OF PAGE 856 Cross was a faithful and efficient employee through-out his active years and is still retained on the payroll of the company. He is a well known resident of Sunbury, particularly in fraternal circles, being a member of the I.O.O.F., which he joined when twenty-two years old; a Mason, having joined Bloss Lodge, No. 350, F. & A.M., at Blossburg, Tioga Co., Pa., in June, 1870; a member of Lodge No. 416, K. of P., of Sunbury, which he served as treasurer for a number of years, until his blindness prevented further service; a charter member of True Cross Commandery, No. 112, Knights of Malta, of Sunbury, of which he was first treasurer, holding that office eight years; a member of Lieut. William A. Bruner Post, No. 335, G.A.R., and a member of the Veteran Railroad Association of the Eastern and Susquehanna Division. Politically he is a Republican. On Sept. 3, 1870, Mr. Cross married Amelia A. Williams, daughter of John J. and Margaret (Harris) Williams, of Blossburg, Pa. Four children have been born to this union, namely: George M., of Westchester, Pa.; John A.; William, who died in infancy; and Harry P., who married Bertha Seaman, of Snyder county, Pa., and has one son, George Perkins. The family live in the home at Sunbury erected by Mr. Cross in 1884. John A. Cross attended public school in Sunbury, graduating from the high school in 1891. He and his brother George M. carried on the ice business in partnership until 1897, when John A. Cross purchased the brother's interest, and has since conducted the business alone. Meantime, in 1894, he had enlarged his experience in that line by working for a time for the old Knickerbocker Ice Company, in Philadelphia. Since 1895 he has had a retail coal business, and at present he keeps four teams busy, doing a prosperous business in both lines, and holding his trade by upright methods. He is well thought of in the community, and has served two terms in the borough council. Mr. Cross is a Republican in politics, and fraternally a member of several secret organizations. On Oct. 26, 1908, Mr. Cross married Cora M. Mertz, of Northumberland borough, a daughter of Benjamin F. Mertz (who died in April, 1910) and a granddaughter of George Mertz, who was born in Berks county, coming to this county along with the Hummels and Hilbishes. Peter Mertz, great-grandfather of Mrs. Cross. was a pioneer of Union county, Pa. He settled near Freeburg, and went to farming, his farm consisting of 112 acres. He is buried at Freeburg Pa. He and his wife had children as follows: a Mrs. Straub; Catharine, who married (first) a Mr. Brown and (second) a Mr. Heimbach; Peggy Mrs. Snell; Philip, who lived near Lewistown, Pa.; John, who lived at Freeburg; Peter, who lived at Freeburg; and George. George Mertz was born in April, 1821, near Freeburg, Pa., and he died Sept. 17, 1887, aged sixty-six years. He is buried at Northumberland, Pa. He was a wheelwright, after his marriage going into the mercantile and hotel business at Freeburg. He then came to Northumberland, Pa., and lived in Point township, following farming there until three years before his death, when he retired to the borough. He had a farm of 110 acres, part of which is still in the family name. He was a Republican and was school director many years, being also auditor. A man of intelligence and integrity, he was influential in his community and took an important part in all local matters. He and his family were members of the Lutheran Church. He married Amelia, born in 1823, daughter of Benjamin Hummel (1788-1869) and his wife Catharine (Hilbush) (1795-1868). She died in 1880. The children of George Mertz were Mary F., who married Hammond Rhodenbaugh; Catharine A., twin to Mary F., who married Cyrus Walter; Benjamin Franklin, father of Mrs. Cross; Emma J., who married George Long; William H.; George Albert and John Peter, the latter dying aged seven months; John Philip; A. Amelia, who married Peter Mertz, her cousin, both dying a few years after marriage; Sarah I., who is unmarried; Lillie V., who married Charles Diehl; Amos A. and Flora E., Mrs. Benner; and Adda C., who married Harry Jacoby. William H. Mertz, born June 6, 1853, became a florist of note. He married Jan. 8, 1878, Emeline Moyer, daughter of George Moyer, and they had nine children: Adelia A., Mabel I., Mary E., George P., Ruth E., Blanche E., William H., Jr., Boyd F. and Harold R. FRED F. KUMER, of Shamokin, has built up a fine business as a contractor in the line of cement and concrete work since he established himself in the borough in 1899. He is a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, born July 5, 1869, son of Joseph Kumer, who was superintendent of a cement plant in the Fatherland. Joseph Kumer came to America in 1888, settling in Philadelphia, where he remained until his death, in 1896. He married Maria Baner, also of Germany, who died in Philadelphia in 1904. They had children as follows: Theresa, Mary, Franciscos, Anna, Fred F. and Louisa. Fred F. Kumer received a good education in the schools of his native land and there also learned the making of cement and concrete. Coming to this country when little more than a boy, he landed at New York City in March, 1885, and for some time after his arrival followed his trade at Philadelphia, removing thence to Bloomsburg, Pa., where he did considerable work in that line. In 1899 he came to Shamokin, where he has since made his home. He has had a number of im- END OF PAGE 857 portant contracts, and employs from ten to fifteen men, his work including the laying of cement curbing, coping, steps, cellar and stable floors, and improved artificial stone pavements. He built his own fine residence, at No. 913 West Arch street, in 1908, and there he also has his business headquarters. His high-grade work is bringing him a steady and lucrative patronage. On Feb. 21, 1895, Mr. Kumer married Margarita Malfaeira, who is of French and Italian descent and they have five children: Joseph John, Frank F., Mary Elizabeth, Christian William and Vincent Paul. Mr. Kumer is a member of St. Edward's Catholic Church and of the Knights of Columbus. ROBERT J. ROUSH, of Milton, Northumberland county, is engaged as an engineer on the Philadelphia & Reading railroad, his run being on the Shamokin division. He is a native of Lower Augusta township, this county, born July 14, 1870, and comes of a family long settled in the State of Pennsylvania. David Roush, great-grandfather of Robert J. Roush, lived and died at Freeburg, Snyder county. His children were Nathan and Isaac. Nathan Roush, son of David, was a well known truck farmer in Juniata county, where he died. He and his wife had a family of eight children: Wilson was the father of Robert J. Roush; Elmer lives at Shamokin, Northumberland county; Daniel lives in Snyder county; Edward lives in Shamokin; Fred, of Sunbury, married Jane Downey and they have children, Frances, Harry, Clarence, Roy and Daniel; Caroline is deceased; Annie married John Walter; Agnes married James Reinert. Wilson Roush was born in Snyder county, and now lives at Winfield; Union Co., Pa. He has been in the employ of the Philadelphia & Reading Railway Company for a period of twenty-two years. He married Malinda Seers, and they are the parents of four sons, namely: Robert J., Joseph, Boyd and Stillwell. Robert J. Roush attended public school at Winfield and followed farm work during his early manhood, continuing thus until he was nineteen years old. At the age of twenty he came to Milton, and entered the employ of the Philadelphia & Reading Railway Company, beginning as a repairman. Later he was on the gravel train, and then worked as brakeman for a time, becoming an engineer when only twenty-five years old. He has been on the Shamokin division throughout his service as engineer. Mr. Roush is a reliable and trustworthy man, a respected citizen of his home place, and well known among his fellow engineers. He holds membership in the P.O.S. of A., the F.O.E. and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, and I.O.O.F. In religion he is a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Roush's first wife, R. Minda (Leightner), of Snyder county, Pa., died in 1904. The two children born to this union died in infancy. On Sept. 19, 1906, Mr. Roush married (second) Christena J. Kern, of Erie, Pa., and they reside at No. 114 Mahoning street, in the borough of Milton. JOSHUA F. HILL, of Montandon, until recently road foreman for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, now retired, was in the employ of that company over thirty years and was a trusted and reliable worker. Mr. Hill was born Oct. 13, 1844, at Montgomery Station, Lycoming Co., Pa., son of John Hill and grandson of John Hill. The grandfather lived and died in Lycoming county, and is buried at the Baptist Church near Montgomery station. He was a carpenter by trade, and followed that calling many years. To him and his wife were born the following children: George, John, Joseph, Daniel, Henry, Sarah and Hannah. John Hill, father of Joshua F. Hill, was born in 1806 in Lycoming county, and did day's work among the farmers of his district, where he was much liked and respected, having many friends. He died in 1892 and is buried in the same churchyard where his father rests. His wife, Sarah (Farley), was a daughter of John Farley, and they had these children: Joshua F.; John; Franklin; James; Benjamin; Elizabeth, unmarried; Sarah, unmarried; Mary, deceased; and Harriet, deceased. Joshua F. Hill attended public school in his home locality and in his young manhood worked among the farmers about Montgomery. In 1880 he entered the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, as section hand, and was engaged in that capacity for five years, at the end of which period he was made foreman, of the Northumberland division. He built six and a half miles of track, from Northumberland to Montandon, and had charge of the road at Montandon, 278 to 281 east having ten men in his gang, until placed on the retired list, May 1, 1911. He is an able man, discharging his responsibilities with the utmost fidelity. On July 3, 1870, Mr. Hill married Elvina Diehl, daughter of William and Hattie (Foy) Diehl. Mr. and Mrs. Hill are members of the Methodist Church at Montandon. JACOB F. BERLEW, who conducts a thriving business at No. 850 Susquehanna avenue, in the Fifth ward of Sunbury, is a rising young merchant of that borough. He has had considerable experience in the line in which he is engaged, and has shown his ability to gain and hold trade by the most upright methods, being honest as well as enterprising. He was born in Sunbury Jan. 16, 1875, and is a member of the fourth generation END OF PAGE 858 of the Berlew family in Northumberland county. We give a brief account of the earlier generations, as far as recorded. Peter Berlew, great-grandfather of Jacob F. Berlew, was born in 1768 in New Jersey, and was one of the emigrants from that State who located in Lower Augusta township, this county, some time after the Revolutionary war. He owned a tract of land in that township on the north side of the Mahanoy mountains. He was a wood chopper and trapper, and so successful a hunter that he had a fence around his house made of the horns of deer he had killed. One day (about 1800) he shot eight deer in two hours on the spot where Trevorton is now located. He moved thither from Lower Augusta township when Indians were still roving over the region, and lived at Trevorton until his death in the winter of 1855, at the ripe age of eighty-seven years. He is buried at the Methodist Church in Irish valley. According to tradition his wife was a Shipman and also from New Jersey. She died long before her husband, and is buried at the Mountain Presbyterian Church. They had a family of four children, namely: Ruth married Samuel Randall; Gilbert is mentioned below; David settled in Luzerne county, Pa., above Pittston; Polly married William Feaster, a brother of Phoebe Feaster, her brother Gilbert's wife. Gilbert Berlew, son of Peter, was born Feb. 29, 1818, in Lower Augusta township, and was seven years old when taken into the family of Squire Weiser, with whom he lived in Sunbury until he reached the age of twenty-one years. He had learned the trade of plasterer, which he followed at Trevorton, Shamokin and Ashland after he attained his majority until 1864, when he settled at Sunbury. He continued to live there until his death, in February, 1883, and is buried in the old cemetery on South Fourth street, Sunbury. He was quite a prosperous plastering contractor, employing as many as ten men and doing a large business for that day. His wife, Phoebe (Feaster), was a daughter of Samuel Feaster, of Lower Augusta township, and they were the parents of children, namely: Addison, Mary J., John, Angeline, Thomas, Norton, Elizabeth, Emanuel and Maria. Mr. Berlew and his family were Baptists. Thomas Berlew, son of Gilbert, was born Feb. 16, 1848, at Boyles Run, Northumberland county, and received a public school education at Trevorton, to which place his parents had removed when he was three years old At the age of seventeen he commenced to learn plastering from his father, and he has followed that trade all his life, being now the leading contractor in that line in Sunbury. He moved with his parents from Trevorton to Sunbury in 18864 and his work has been principally in and around the borough, though he has done considerable business in Shamokin. For a number of years he has had the most important contracts in his home place, having plastered the jail, the courthouse, the leading hotels, all the churches but two, and many other buildings. At times he has had as many as twenty men in his employ, but for a few years past he has been relinquishing heavy responsibilities. In 1869 Mr. Berlew married Catharine Felsinger, daughter of Michael and Charlotte (Knobel) Felsinger, of Sunbury, who came from Wurms, Germany, in 1851. Mr. and Mrs. Berlew have had four children: Lottie, now the wife of Charles Felton, of Sunbury; Jacob F.; John, of Philadelphia; and William, a merchant of Sunbury. Mr. Berlew and his family are members of the Baptist Church, in the work of which he has long been prominent, having served as trustee and librarian and, for thirty-five years, as member of the choir, having an excellent bass voice. Politically he is a Republican. Jacob F. Berlew received his education in the public schools of Sunbury, graduating from the high school in 1895. At an early age he began clerking for his father, and in 1892 became interested in the mercantile business on Market street, where he was engaged for nine years. In 1903 he took a responsible position at Greensburg, Westmoreland Co., Pa., with the large mercantile house of A. E. Troutman & Co., having charge of the dress goods and silks, and he remained with that concern until he entered the business on his own account in 1906, establishing himself at his present location in Sunbury. His store on Susquehanna avenue has a frontage of 40 feet, and is 90 feet long. His stock is large and well assorted, and he gives employment to five clerks. Mr. Berlew's enterprise and obliging traits have brought him an extensive custom, which he is striving to increase by the most commendable methods, and he has every prospect of a prosperous future. In addition to his mercantile business, he has the district agency for the Pullman motor car, 1911 models. He is a member of the Order of Moose, at Sunbury, and belongs to the Presbyterian Church. On Nov. 25, 1903, Mr. Berlew married Nellie Fox, daughter of Jacob Fox, of Greensburg, Pa., and they have had one daughter, Catharine. LEVI B. BATDORF, who for the last twenty years has been engaged in the grocery business at Shamokin, Pa., is a native of Northumberland county, born in Jackson township Sept. 12, 1843, son of Joseph Batdorf and grandson of John Batdorf. John Batdorf came to Northumberland county from Berks county, Pa., where his home had been near the Lebanon county line. He made the journey by wagon, and located in Jackson township where he was among the very early settlers. END OF PAGE 859 The Batdorfs had been located in Berks county for many years, in the tax list of 1759 there appearing the name of Christian Battort (name is variously spelled by different members of the family), who paid two pounds tax, showing him to be a man of some property in Bethel township. John Batdorf owned a small farm, and devoted himself to farm work. He was a member of the United Evangelical Church at Mahanoy, where he is buried. He married Mary Grow, who died aged ninety years. They became the parents of two sons and eight daughters, namely: Joseph, John, Polly, Catharine, Sarah, Rebecca, Eliza, Harriet, Tillie and Lucy Ann, the last named, who is still living (1911), marrying Peter Kniss and having children, Rebecca Jane, Franklin, Hattie, Samuel and William. Joseph Batdorf, son of John, was born in Reading, Pa., and accompanied his father to Northumberland county. He learned the blacksmith's trade, and followed it for some time, but later engaged in farming in Lower Mahanoy township, and died at Hickory Corners. He married Sarah Bahner, and their children were: Isaac, of Lower Mahanoy township; Jeremiah and William, deceased; Levi B.; Lovina, who married Elias Zartman; Hannah, who married Isaac Clemens; and Henrietta, who married John A. Long. Levi B. Batdorf attended the schools of Jackson township, and at the age of seventeen began to learn the shoemaker's trade, which he followed for several years. For sixteen years he was engaged in farming in Little Mahanoy township, and in 1886 came to Shamokin. In 1890 he opened his present grocery store, in the operation of which he has met with deserved success. He carried a full line of groceries which he markets at reasonable prices, giving his customers the benefit of the best goods at the lowest possible cost. In 1864 Mr. Batdorf married Harriett Zartman, daughter of Adam and Susan (Forney) Zartman, and they have two children: Irvin J., who is engaged in the insurance business at Harrisburg, married Ellen Enterline, and has two children, Claude W. and Ethel M.; Emma P. married N. I. Raker, of Shamokin. Mr. Batdorf is a member of the United Evangelical Church, which he has served as class leader, steward and trustee for some time, and for ten years was superintendent of the Sunday school in Little Mahanoy township. HARRY A. LEBO, of Sunbury, has followed the baker's trade there since he attained his majority, and he has been in business for himself since 1895. His place of business at No. 600 East Market street is equipped with the most modern appliances known to the trade, and he employs four bakers, keeping two teams constantly busy supplying his trade. He sells more bread than any other baker in the city. Mr. Lebo was born Jan. 4, 1869, in Upper Paxton township, Dauphin Co., Pa., where the family has long been located, his father and grandfather having been also natives of the same township. Henry Lebo, the grandfather, was a shoemaker, following his trade in the days when shoes were made entirely by hand, and his services were in much demand in his locality. He died in middle life, of rheumatism, and is buried at St. David's Church, at Killinger, in Dauphin county. His wife, Annie (Billifelt), was from Berks county, Pa., and lived to be over seventy. Their children were: John died when a young man; Caroline married George Neagley and they lived at Millersburg; Nathaniel was the father of Harry A. Lebo; Mary M. married John Grove, of Harrisburg; Louisa married Jared Specht and both died at Millersburg; Rebecca, who is unmarried, lives at Millersburg; Henry lived in Upper Paxton township, Dauphin county. Only two survive, Mrs. Grove and Miss Rebecca Lebo. Nathaniel Lebo, son of Henry, was born in February, 1830, in Upper Paxton township, was a farmer by occupation, and died in 1885. He is buried at St. David's Church, Killinger, and was a member of the Reformed congregation of that church. Mr. Lebo married Mary S. James, daughter of Isaac and Agnes (Albright) James, who lived in Armstrong Valley, and she survived him many years, dying April 5, 1907, when sixty-seven years old. Nine children were born to them, namely: Oliver lives in Upper Paxton township; Agnes) widow of J. P. Harrison, resides at Sunbury; Harry A. is mentioned below; Ira A. died in childhood; J. Edward makes his home in Illinois; J. Wilson is a resident of Upper Paxton township; Anna Dora and Anna Cora, the former the wife of George Seits, the latter the wife of William DeLancy, are twins; Charles N. is a resident of Millersburg, Pennsylvania. Harry A. Lebo received his education in the schools of the home locality, which he attended until thirteen years old. Subsequently he worked on the farm and learned coachsmithing, which he followed for a few years, but when twenty-one years old he came to Sunbury and commenced to learn the baker's trade, at which he has since been engaged. He was in the employ of others until 1895, when he started business on his own account in a humble way, doing most of the work himself. Gradually he built up a thriving trade, which has grown to such proportions that he employs four bakers and runs two wagons, and he does the largest bread business in the city. Mr. Lebo is a general baker, turning out all the ordinary products of a bakery, and he also sells groceries and confectionery, in which line he has likewise established a good trade. He now owns all the ground from No. 600 Market street back to Wood- END OF PAGE 860 lawn avenue, along Sixth street, and has gained this valuable holding by thrifty management and application to his business. On July 3, 1893, Mr. Lebo married Katie M. Miller, daughter of Charles S. Miller, a prominent citizen of Sunbury, and six children have been born to this union, Myrtle S., Donald E., Russell A., Harry A., Cora C. and Helen A. The family are members of the Reformed Church. Mr. Lebo is a Democrat in political opinion, and socially he belongs to the Modern Woodmen, being a charter member of his lodge; he is a member of the American Sick and Accident Company. DARLINGTON R. KULP, late of Shamokin, was for a quarter of a century one of the foremost business men of Northumberland county, where his extensive and varied interests made him an important figure in its industrial life from the time of his settlement in that borough until his death. His activities were not, however, confined to this region, his lumber business extending over a wide territory. Mr. Kulp came of a family of Holland Dutch origin whose first members in America were among the early settlers of Pennsylvania. Matteas or Mattheis Kolb (as the name was originally spelled) came to America, arriving in the ship "Phoenix" Oct. 20, 1744, and lived in Pottstown and Goshenhoppen, Pa. He had one son Peter, whose son Joseph Kolb was born about 1740 and married Ann Maria Stettler. Joseph Kolb was overseer of the poor in New Hanover March 25, 1770. He had nineteen children, the sixth of whom, Christian, was the father of Darlington R. Kulp. Christian Kulp was born Aug. 6, 1800, in Montgomery county, this State, and died March 9, 1874. He and his wife Catherine (Renninger), a native of Berks county, both spent their lives in eastern Pennsylvania. She lived to the age of eighty-three, and they are buried at Niantic, a small town in Montgomery county, near Pottstown. They had eleven children, as follows: Darlington H. is mentioned below; Sarah married Jacob Hummelricht, and died in Chester county; Elizabeth married George W. Drumheller, and died at Gilbertsville, Pa.; Henry is living in East Coventry township, Chester county; Catharine married Jesse Longabach, and died at Pottstown, Pa.; Mary married William Fink and is living at Pottstown; Jacob married Amelia Wagner and lives at Houtzdale, Clearfield Co., Pa.; Christian lived at the old homestead at Niantic, Montgomery county; Elmina married Jacob Endy and resides at Pottstown; Frederick H. died in Tamaqua, Pa.; Diana married William Gilbert and lives at Pottstown. Darlington R. Kulp was born in Philadelphia Nov. 29, 1826, and was reared in Montgomery county, near Pottstown. He attended the district schools, but not regularly, his advantages for education being very limited. But he was intelligent and enterprising, and this handicap did not seriously affect his success. He learned the carpenter's trade and early engaged in the lumber business, becoming one of the most successful lumber dealers of his day in Northumberland county, whither he removed in 1867. In October of that year he settled in Shamokin, where he entered into partnership, in the lumber business, with D. S. Shultz and William H. Bechtel, the name of the firm being Shultz, Bechtel & Co. In 1869-70 he was a member of the firm of Kulp, Bechtel & Co., who operated the Ben Franklin colliery. In July, 1871, he became associated with Matthias Emes, under the name of Kulp & Emes, which lasted about six years, when Mr. Emes was succeeded by Isaac F. Statler. The latter's interest was purchased May 1, 1878, by C. Q. McWilliams, the new firm being known as Kulp & McWilliams, who in 1879 extended their interests, adding ice and brick to the original line. They continued to deal in all three commodities until Jan. 1, 1882, when W. C. McConnell joined the firm, which under the name of Kulp, McWilliams & Co. did business until Aug. 15, 1886. The partnership was then dissolved, Mr. Kulp taking the lumber interests, and he continued to follow that line the rest of his life. His work branched out far beyond the original lines, for he not only bought large tracts of land and cut the timber, but he carried the work further, converting the cleared land into productive farms; at the time of his death he owned ten farms in Northumberland and adjoining counties. In company with his eldest son, Monroe H. Kulp, Mr. Kulp opened a store in Shamokin, which they conducted as D. R. Kulp & Son for three years. Mr. Kulp was also a director of the Roaring Creek Water Company and its first president, and he was a director of the Shamokin Water Company. Though not particularly active in public affairs he served in the borough council and as supervisor of the poor in Coal township. He was originally a Whig, later a Republican, in politics. During Lee's invasion he was one of the "emergency men" who answered the call to defend the State. Mr. Kulp was a Mason, uniting with Elysburg Lodge, No. 414, F. & A.M., and with Shamokin Chapter, No. 264, R.A.M. He was reared in the faith of the German Reformed Church, but joined the Lutheran Church after locating in Shamokin. On Oct. 5, 1851, Mr. Kulp married Elizabeth Gilbert, a native of New Hanover, Montgomery county, daughter of George and Sallie (Houck) Gilbert, of Montgomery county. She died Feb. 23, 1902, aged sixty-nine years, surviving Mr. Kulp, who passed away Dec. 29, 1893, at the age of sixty-seven years. They are buried in the Shamokin cemetery. To this union were born twelve children, eight of whom survive, namely: Zep- END OF PAGE 861 orah E.; Joanna Catherine, widow of Edwin Shuman, residing in Shamokin (she has two children, Harry W. and Mary); Monroe H.; Clayton A., a resident of Shamokin, who married Alice Schlegel, and they have had three children, Darlington, Clarence and Monroe; Ella J.; Chester G., who married Elizabeth Dintinger, and they have had five children, Kathleen A., Darlington W., Elizabeth H., Chester G. and Elizabeth L. (the family live at Shamokin); Howard C., a member of the Kulp Planing Mill Company, manufacturers of lumber and millwork, at Lewistown, Pa., who married Clara Eisenhuth, and their children are Eleanora E., Darlington R., Leon E., Sarah, Marguerite and Florence G.; and George Gilbert. HON. MONROE H. KULP was one of the most widely known citizens of Shamokin, and there was probably no one resident of the place more thoroughly identified with the local welfare. As representative of his district in Congress for two terms, and as a man of extensive business interests, in the development of which he showed himself to be possessed of the ability which, years ago, in his father's career, made the name of Kulp famous in lumber circles, he had a reputation which extended far beyond the limits of his home city. He encouraged and started projects for the opening up of this section, and showed his faith in its future by investing in new public utilities and in localities affected by them. His high personal qualities made him a popular figure for many years, and few men have retained so prominent a position in any community for so long a period. Mr. Kulp lived in Shamokin from the age of seven years. He was born in Barto, Berks Co., Pa., Oct. 23, 1858, son of Darlington B. and Elisabeth (Gilbert) Kulp. Attending the public schools of Shamokin during the winter months in his early boyhood, between times he did such work at the collieries as those of his age were employed at and by the time he was seventeen he had worked at nearly every branch of the coal industry. Then he entered the store of his father, continuing with him after the formation, in 1878, of the firm of Kulp & McWilliams, in whose employ he gained his early knowledge of the business in which he was so successful. However, he began to feel the need of more schooling, and in 1879 he entered the normal school at Lebanon, Ohio, where for two years he studied the branches he thought would be most helpful to him; he then went to the Eastman Business College, at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., from which he was graduated in 1881 with so creditable a record that his work was highly complimented. by the faculty. After this period of study Mr. Kulp returned to Shamokin and took charge of the books of Kulp, McWilliams & Co. of which firm his father was senior member, acting as bookkeeper and cashier until the dissolution of the company, in 1886, when Darlington R. Kulp took all the lumber interests of the firm. Monroe H. Kulp was made general manager and acted as such until the spring of 1892. Meantime he had been junior member of the firm of D. R. Kulp & Son, who had a mercantile business for three years from the spring of 1886. In 1892, when Darlington R. Kulp was stricken with the illness which caused his death the following year, the entire management of the extensive interests fell upon Monroe H. Kulp. It was no small responsibility, for the Kulps were operating in nine counties in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, having twenty thousand acres in timber tracts and employing three hundred men. After his father's death, in 1893, having been appointed an executor of the will, he took entire charge of the estate. Upon the settlement of the estate the Monroe H. Kulp & Co. firm was organized, and this concern purchased the landed interests which they afterward continued to conduct. Mr. Kulp was president of the Kulp Lumber Company of Pennsylvania, of the Kulp Lumber Company of Allegheny county, Md., and of the Kulp Planing Mill Company, Incorporated, of Lewistown, Pennsylvania. Mr. Kulp's real estate holdings and investments in Shamokin enterprises were very considerable. Edgewood, Fairview and Kulpmont, three delightful suburbs of Shamokin, owe their development to his activity, and his own home at Edgewood is one of the handsomest residences in or around Shamokin. Edgewood Park, the finest pleasure resort in the coal regions, is another of big projects brought to ideal completion. The excellent trolley service which Shamokin and the immediate vicinity enjoy is due to his efforts in the improvement of local transportation. He was a director of the Shamokin Street Railway Co. and at the time of his death president of the Shamokin & Edgewood Electric Railway Co. He was president of the Mount Equity Coal Co., and of the Leader Publishing Co. of Shamokin; a director of the Guarantee Trust & Safe Deposit Company of Shamokin; and of the Pennsylvania Lighting Company. He was a prominent member of the Board of Trade, and was serving as chairman of the executive committee of that organization. Hardly a single project of importance in recent years has been promoted without his aid and influence, and no one citizen labored more disinterestedly for the common good. He died Oct. 19, 1911. Mr. Kulp represented his district the Seventeenth, in Congress for two terms. In 1894 he was nominated without the least solicitation, and his popularity, to say nothing of the confidence he inspired, may be judged from the fact that although a Republican he was successful at the election, being the first member of his party so END OF PAGE 862 honored in the district. He was nominated and elected for a second term, but refused the nomination for a third, his business interests demanding his undivided attention. He went into Congress for the second term by an increased majority, and his services throughout his membership in that body were eminently satisfactory. His knowledge of land conditions was recognized in his appointment to the committee on Public Lands, of which he was sub-chairman, and he was also a member of the Manufacturers committee. Mr. Kulp had many fraternal and social connections, uniting with the Elks, the Eagles, the Red Men and the Masons, in the latter associating with Shamokin Lodge, No. 255, F. & A.M.; Shamokin Chapter, No. 264, R.A.M.; Shamokin Commandery No. 77, K.T.; Philadelphia Consistory, thirty-second degree; and Rajah Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S. He was one of the organizers of the Cresco Club of Shamokin, was a member of the Rosa Club of Williamsport, of the Manufacturers Club of Philadelphia, and Union League of Philadelphia. On June 7, 1897, Mr. Kulp was united in marriage with Sarah Detweiler. GEORGE GILBERT KULP, of Shamokin, is undoubtedly one of the most progressive residents of that city, well known not only in Northumberland county but also in other sections of Pennsylvania and even outside of the State. His business interests are numerous and varied, and he has handled them with such judgment and care as to make the most of all their possibilities. He has been a member of the important lumber firm of Monroe H. Kulp & Co. from early manhood, and is connected with many other enterprising concerns, in the management of which his ability has been counted an appreciable factor, for he is a worthy member of the well known family whose name he bears. Mr. Kulp was born in Shamokin June 15, 1873, son of Darlington R. Kulp and grandson of Christian Kulp. George Gilbert Kulp received an excellent education, attending the public schools of his native borough, Ursinas College, at Collegeville, Pa., and the Eastman National Business College, at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., from which latter institution he was graduated with honors. In October, 1895, upon the organization of the firm of Monroe H. Kulp & Co., he became a member, and the lumber business has always been his principal interest He is one of the best known men in that line in his section of Pennsylvania, his connections there in, besides the one just mentioned, being with the Kulp Lumber Company of Maryland and the Kulp Planing Mill Company, of Lewistown, Mifflin Co. Pa., he being vice-president of both these concerns. The plant of the latter firm, for the manufacture of lumber and mill work, is one of the largest and most complete along the line of the Pennsylvania railroad between Pittsburg and Philadelphia. He is also a director of the Columbia Co., manufacturers of cane seats, with head-quarters at Jersey City, New Jersey. Mr. Kulp's progressive instincts, however, have led him to aid with his capital and influence other undertakings which not only promised profit but benefit to the community, and thus he was one of the organizers of the Shamokin & Edgewood Electric Railway Company, and Edgewood Park, of which he is vice-president; he is vice-president, treasurer and executive manager of the Leader Publishing Company; a director of the Mount Equity Coal and Coke Company, of Riddlesburg, Bedford Co., Pa., and a member of the firm of Kulp & Savidge, which developed the suburbs of Edgewood and Fairview. His interest in local institutions has aided them materially, his ideas being thoroughly up- to-date and for the good of the people generally. He has a genial, unselfish nature, which has made him many friends, and he has a personal reputation above reproach. Mr. Kulp is a member of the Elks, of which he is a past exalted ruler, and of the Masonic fraternity, in the latter connection having been one of the organizers and belonging to Shamokin Lodge, No. 355, F. & A.M., Shamokin Chapter, No. 264, R.A.M., Shamokin Commandery, No. 77, K.T., Williamsport Consistory, thirty-second degree, and Rajah Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S., of Reading, Pa. In 1905 he represented the Shrine at the imperial council held at Niagara Falls and in 1906 he represented it at Los Angeles. He is a prominent member of the Larry's Creek Fish and Game Club, of Lycoming county, Pennsylvania. He is also a member of Cresco Club. On Oct. 26, 1899, Mr. Kulp married Florence Billmeyer, daughter of ex-Congressman Billmeyer, of Washingtonville, Montour county, and they have had two sons, both of whom died in infancy. THOMPSON BOWER, late of Watsontown, Northumberland county, was a resident of that borough for a quarter of a century before his death, and for twenty years was the efficient president of the Watsontown National Bank, which was the first bank in the borough and for several years the only financial institution there. He was a native of Lycoming county, Pa., born in Washington township March 9, 1826, son of John Bower and grandson of George Bower. George Bower, the grandfather, served seven years as a soldier in the Revolutionary war. He and his wife, whose maiden name was Thompson, are buried at the Stone Church in Brady township, Lycoming county. They were the parents of the following children: George, who married; Martha, Mrs. Smith, who moved to New York; Elizabeth, Mrs. Farley; Eve, Mrs. Henting; Mrs. Syph- END OF PAGE 863 er, who died May 10, 1883; Ellen, Mrs. William Autis, who died May 11, 1883; and John. John Bower, son of George, was born in 1799 in New Jersey, and died in 1872. He married Sarah Quinn, who was born in Ireland in 1793, and they spent the greater part of their lives in Lycoming county, Pa. Their children were as follows: (1) James Q. married Elizabeth Sedan and moved to Illinois, where she died and he remarried; there were six children by the first union, Robert, William, Ann E., Jennie, Ella and James, and five by the second; James Q. Bower died April 27, 1900. (2) Thompson, twin of James Q., is mentioned below. (3) Lewis married Tisha Lemon and died Oct. 6, 1907. (4) Mary Ellen married Daniel Foresman and has daughters Sallie (wife of James Piatt and mother of two children) and Maggie (a trained nurse). Thompson Bower was reared on a farm and continued to follow agricultural pursuits for a number of years after beginning life on his own account, living in Lycoming county and later in Union county prior to his removal to Watsontown, in 1884. In 1883 he had purchased the large brick house which he and his family occupied from the time of their settlement at that place, and which is the oldest house in the borough. He retained valuable interests in Union county, owning several large and fertile farms there. After taking up his residence in Watsontown he was prominently connected with its most important business interests, and for twenty years was the executive head of the Watsontown National Bank, which owes much of its high standing to his wise policy and shrewd direction of affairs. While living in the country Mr. Bower served his community as member of the school hoard, but he took no part in public life during his residence in Watsontown. He was a Democrat in politics and a Lutheran in religion, holding membership in the First Lutheran Church in Watsontown, which he served as elder for many years. On Nov. 15, 1848, Mr. Bower married Catharine A. Gosh, who was born in Black Hole Valley, in Lycoming county, Pa., daughter of Christian and Margaret (Dietrich) Gosh, later of Northumberland county. Her grandparents, Christian and Catharine (Wiest) Gosh, were natives of Holland, and coming to America settled in Lycoming county. Their children were Christian, Daniel and John (who married a Miss Coats; of Philadelphia). Christian Gosh, father of Mrs. Bower, was born in 1807, and died in 1871. He married Margaret Dietrich, who was born in 1809, daughter of Frederich Dietrich and his wife (whose maiden name was Knarr), natives of Columbia county, Pa., and among the early settlers in Black Hole Valley. Mrs. Margaret (Dietrich) Gosh was the mother of five children: Levi, who died in 1854; Dr. John, who married a Hancock, and died July 27, 1877; Frederich, who married a Miss Armstrong; Ellen M., who married Dr. J. P. Harley and had children, Margaret, Bertha, Lulu, and Dr. John (of Williamsport, Pa.); and Catharine A., Mrs. Thompson Bower. Mr. and Mrs. Bower reared three children: Laure E. married R. M. Griffee and had a daughter Catharine; John G., now a resident of Hagerstown, Md., married Ada Follmer and has children John and Rolland (John G. Bower went to Europe in 1907 in 1907 and spent some time in travel); Maggie G. married George W. Crane, who died Feb. 3, 1900, and she and her children, Thompson B., Margarette B. and Catharine B., went to reside with her parents. They have an ideal household. Though long past man's allotted span at the time of his death, Mr. Bower continued hale and energetic to the end, pursuing life's work with unabated interest, and, he enjoyed a most honorable position in the community, commanding the esteem of all who knew him. FERDINAND KERLIN HILL was born at Selinsgrove, Snyder Co., Pa., Oct. 5, 1850. In 1858 he, with his father, George Hill, who was a practicing lawyer, moved to Sunbury, PA., where he has since resided with the exception of several years which be spent in Illinois. He was educated in the public schools of his home town, studying also for some time at the Wiley Academy in Milton, Pa., and at the Kremer Academy in Sunbury. He studied law with his father and was admitted to the Northumberland county bar in 1871. In January, 1872, he went West and settled at Freeport, Ill. He was admitted by the Illinois Supreme court to practice law anywhere in the State. While in Freeport he was elected. to the office of justice of the peace, and after serving a year and a half resigned his commission and returned to Sunbury, Pa., where he entered into partnership with his father in the practice of law. After being ten years in the law business he retired to engage in other pursuits. On April 1, 1892, he assumed the management of the Sunbury American, one of the pioneer Republican newspapers of the State, founded by the late Henry B. Masser, in 1840. On Dec. 16, 1893, Mr. Hill established the daily Evening Item, and made it a successful and important publication. In July, 1904, he retired from the newspaper business to give his whole time to the business of the post office, as postmaster, which office he held from April 27, 1901, to March 31, 1911. On Dec. 6, 1877, Mr. Hill was married to Rachel Jane Packer, eldest daughter of the late Hon. John B. Packer, of Sunbury, Pa. Three children were born to them: William Cameron, Mary Martha, and Nelle Packer, wife of Mr. Frank L. Babe, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mr. Hill has always taken a deep interest in END OF PAGE 864 the affairs of his town. He was appointed as a member of the first board of health established in the place, and served three years. He also served a term as school director, and largely through his exertions the cause of modern school buildings was brought to the attention of his fellow members of the board and the people of the town. The result was the large and handsome high school building, the pride of the town, which stands on Fifth street, which was planned and built during his term and was the forerunner of several other fine buildings, erected since. Mr. Hill has always devoted a great portion of his time to the science and study of music, and has for many years been closely identified with the musical development of his town. He has always advised and encouraged the cultivation of the higher order of music, especially the classics of the old masters. He served over thirty-five years as organist of the First Reformed Church of Sunbury, and has written considerable music, principally for church service. Among his compositions is the music of the comic opera "Rhoda," the libretto of which was written by the late Gilbert T. Israel. The opera has never been given on the professional stage, but has had many renditions, at different times, by amateur companies for charitable benefits, and never failed to receive enthusiastic applause by large audiences. J. SIMPSON KLINE, attorney, of Sunbury, local counsel for the Pennsylvania and Northern Central Railway Companies in Northumberland county, is a native of Upper Augusta township and a member of an old Pennsylvania family which long ago settled in this county. The family came from England to New Jersey, and thence to Pennsylvania. Isaac Kline, his grandfather, was a native of Northumberland, county, and followed farming near Sunbury, in the village of Kline's Grove. He married Elizabeth DeWitt and reared a good-sized family. Harmon G. Kline, son of Isaac, was born in Northumberland county in 1818, and became a lifelong farmer, as was his father before him. He was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was liberal with both his time and means in endeavoring to advance its interests. He married Mary Bassett who was born in 1821, daughter of Luther Bassett, a native of New Jersey, who removed to Northumberland county, and followed farming there, living to the advanced age of eighty-seven years. Mr. and Mrs. Kline enjoyed more than half a century of wedded happiness. Mr. Kline has been deceased several years. Mrs. Kline is living and in good health, in her ninety-first year. They were the parents of nine children, who all grew to maturity, the survivors being men and women of real value to their several communities: (1) Dr. Luther B. was educated in the Sunbury public schools, and professionally in Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. Since his graduation he has been practicing at Catawissa, Columbia county. He was vice president of the Pennsylvania State Medical Society in 1910-11. (2) Elisha B. graduated at Williamsport Dickinson Seminary, read law with Hon. S. P. Wolverton, and was just ready for admission to the bar when he died. (3) Elizabeth Cecelia was also sent to Williamsport Seminary, and after finishing her course married H. C. Wallize. (4) George M. was educated at Williamsport, and is now a merchant in Union county, Pa. (5) Margaret Eleanor was educated at Dickinson Seminary, and is the widow of I. Lewis Render. She resides with her son, Prof. Harold H. Bender, of Princeton University. (6) Dr. David C. attended Bloomsburg normal school, Dickinson Seminary, and Hahnemann Medical College, born which institution he was graduated in 1883. The same year he settled at Reading, Pa., where he has since been engaged in practice. He is ex- president of the Homeopathic State Medical Society of Pennsylvania. (7) I. Clinton was educated at Bloomsburg normal school, Union Seminary, Bucknell Academy, and Lafayette College, receiving the A. B. and A. M. degrees from the latter institution. He read law with Hon. John B. Packer and has practiced in Sunbury since 1894. (8) J. Simpson was the next in order of birth. (9) Rachel Estelle is the wife of Prof. William S. Hall, who is head of the Department of Mining Engineering of Lafayette College. He is author of several college textbooks on mathematics. J. Simpson Kline was born in Upper Augusta township, Northumberland county, and during his boyhood worked on the farm and attended country school. He was also a student of Union Seminary, at New Berlin, and of Lafayette College, at Easton, and taught school for a time at Bloomsburg. There he read law with Charles G. Barkley, Esq., was admitted to the bar of Northumberland county in February, 1891, and has since been engaged in practice at Sunbury. At the close of that year he entered the office of James C. Packer, Esq., with whom he was associated professionally in the settlement of the Packer estate. He has attained prominence in his profession, served several years as borough solicitor for Sunbury and Northumberland, and is now local counsel for the Pennsylvania and Northern Central Railway Companies. He is also attorney for the First National Bank of Sunbury, and a director of that bank. Mr. Kline has been active in the Masonic fraternity, being past master of Knapp Lodge, No. 462, F. & A.M., of Berwick, Pa.; past master of Maclay Lodge, No. 632, F. & A.M., at Sunbury, and secretary of the latter; past high priest of Northumberland Chapter, No. 174, R.A.M.; END OF PAGE 865 member of Mount Hermon Commandery, No, 85, K.T., of Sunbury: and of Irem Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S., of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. BROSIOUS or BROSIUS, two of the commonest forms in which this name is found, is the patronymic of a family numerously represented in Northumberland county, where several distinct branches reside. It is said that the family was settled in Lancaster county before coming to this region, and that Sebastian Brosious, from whom many of the name trace their line, came from that county. About 1780 he obtained from William Dunbar a tract of land in the lower end of this county upon which Dalmatia, (Georgetown) is now located, and this land he left to his son John George Brosius, who opened a store and erected a mill. This mill as originally built by George Brosius was a log structure, situated on the Stone Valley creek at the lower end of Dalmatia, and is said to have been the first in the southern part of Northumberland county. It subsequently became known as the Witmer mill. Sebastian Brosius must have been in this section before the land transaction mentioned, as in 1777, when Mahanoy township was organized, he became its first constable. Unfortunately be left no will, and there seem to be no records to show definitely who his children were, but the following were undoubtedly his sons: Peter, Abraham, John (head of the Lower Mahanoy branch) and another son who founded the Jordan township branch. Members of the family were also in Berks county, Pa. The last will and testament of one Nicholas Brosius, of the borough of Reading, on record in Will Book 3, page 134, at the Berks county courthouse, was proved June 28, 1790. He was married Feb. 12, 1789, and his wife Frances was appointed executrix. They had no children. His only brother, Henry Brosius, "shall have all my wearing apparel of every kind whatsoever, together with the sum of ten pounds in gold and silver money, all to be settled by my executors three months after my decease; rest shall belong to my beloved wife Frances, who shall be my sole heir and executor." This Nicolas Brosius died at Reading in June, 1790. In 1806, when Mahanoy township, which originally embraced all that area now divided into Jackson, Washington, Upper Mahanoy, Jordan and Lower Mahanoy townships, was divided, one Nicholas Brosius was one of the supervisors of that section now called Upper Mahanoy, and Abraham Brosius was one of the two overseers of the poor of said township. In 1845 George Brosius was one of the organizers of the Georgetown Church, Lutheran and Reformed. Among the records at The Himmel Church we find: Nicolaus Brosius, born Dec. 23, 1754, died Dec. 13, 1833. But we also find that one Nicolas Brosius died Dec. 6, 1832 and his wife Anna or Ann died Oct. 30, 1830. Their sons were Nicholas, George, Peter, (who lived in New York), Michael (?) and John, and there was evidently a daughter Elizabeth, born Aug. 10, 1780 who died March 29, 1821. Of these, George, born March 27, 1788, died Oct. 1, 1854; his wife, Eve Catharine, daughter of Michael and Rosanna Schafer born May 30, 1792, died April 11, 1868. John Brosius, evidently son of Nicholas and Ann, was born July 2, 1790, and was a farmer by occupation. In his earlier years he lived near Hickory Corners, where Jacob Phillips now resides, later settling on the place now occupied by David H. Witmer, and there he died Sept. 30, 1861; he is buried at Georgetown. He married Catharine Spotts, who was born Jan. 15, 1795, daughter of John Spotts, and died Dec. 27, 1878, when nearly eighty-four years old. They had the following children: Charles; Sarah, who never married; Mary Ann, born in 1819, who died in 1870; and Napoleon, who lived near Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania. Charles Brosius, son of John, was born in Lower Mahanoy township, and lived on the Brosius home-stead, the farm now occupied by David H. Witmer. He followed farming throughout his active years, retiring some years before his death, which occurred Feb. 4, 1889, at the age of seventy four years, four months, twenty-nine days. He is buried at Zion's Stone Valley Church, of which he was a Lutheran member, all his family also belonging there. He was active in the life of his congregation, holding several church offices. His wife was Rebecca Emerick, daughter of Michael Emerick, and their children were the following George; Henry; Isaac E.; Charles, born in 1862, who died in 1865: Catharine, who never married, Sarah, married to William Scheib (they live near Gratz, Pa.); Susanna, wife of Henry Fetterolf; Elizabeth, who married Foster Spotts, of Valley View, Pa.; and Louisa, who married Alexander Deppen. George Brosius son of Charles, was born. at Dalmatia, and like his immediate ancestors became a farmer, living in the Mahantango Valley, where he owned the farm now belonging to Alexander Deppen. He also followed the butcher business for some years. He took some part in local affairs, serving as school director, was a Republican in politics, and was an active member of the Stone Valley Church, in which he held the office of deacon. He died Dec. 10, 1883, aged forty-two years, eleven months, sixteen days, and is buried at the Stone Valley Church. His wife Sophia (Trego), daughter of Samuel Trego, was born Oct. 8, 1837, and died Dec. 27, 1877, and is also buried at the Stone Valley Church. They had the following END OF PAGE 866 children: John F., Mary (Mrs. Jerre Heckert), Sarah (Mrs. John F. Bastress), Charles H. and Samuel (died aged ten years). John F. Brosious, son of George, a merchant of Dalmatia (Georgetown), was born Aug. 6, 1863, where he still lives, and received his education in the public schools. He passed his boyhood upon the farm, assisting with the agricultural work and also helping his father in the butcher business for several years. He then became clerk in a hotel at Herndon, being thus engaged for two years, and at the age of twenty he went out to Ogle county, Ill., where he did farm work for about one year. After his marriage he began clerking in a hotel in his native township, continuing in that position three years, until he engaged in the livery business, in Dalmatia, in 1891, on his own account. After conducting same about one and a half years he sold out and entered the bottling business, which he carried on altogether about fifteen years, during which time, however, he was also engaged as owner and proprietor of the "National Hotel" at Dalmatia, the leading hotel of the town. He was interested in the hotel business for six and a half years, selling his property and good will in 1908 to Jacob Bingaman, the present proprietor. Since the spring of 1910 Mr. Brosious has had a general mercantile and drug business at Dalmatia, carrying a full stock in both lines, and he is agent and distributor for various kinds of farm implements and vehicles of every description. In this connection he handles the famous Mifflinburg (Pa.) and Michigan buggies and other vehicles, in which line be has a large trade; has the district agency of the DeLaval cream separators, of which he has sold many in his section of the county; is agent for a number of different harvesting machines, many makes of plows and harrows and farm supplies of various kinds, doing the largest business of the kind in the territory south of Line Mountain. Stoves, heating apparatus and bathroom supplies constitute another line in which he has built up a profitable trade. Mr. Brosious is vice president and a director of the Mahanoy & Mahantango Telephone Company, director and manager of the Murninum Paint & Tile Company, of Dalmatia (which employs six men), is the owner of considerable real estate in Dalmatia, and an all-around man of affairs in his community, where he is regarded as a leading business man, and a citizen whose public spirit and progressive influence have done much for the general welfare. He has gained his substantial position through his own efforts, and the high standing he enjoys is the result of a consistent career of honorable dealings and the pursuit of creditable ambitions. His financial acumen and trustworthy character were recognized by his selection to the office of treasurer of Lower Mahanoy township, a position he filled for many years. He is a Republican in politics, socially is identified with the Jr. O.U.A.M., John B. Packer Council, No. 854, of Dalmatia (of which he was elected treasurer in 1896, two months after joining, and has filled the office ever since), and with the I.O.O.F., Lodge No. 864 at Herndon, and in religion is a Lutheran. He belongs to the Lutheran congregation at Dalmatia Union Church, of which his wife is a Reformed member, and served four years, as deacon, declining another two years term. On Sept. 3, 1887, Mr. Brosious married Mary G. Emerick, daughter of Isaac and Sarah (Spotts) Emerick, and granddaughter of John and Anna (Charles) Emerick. They have four children: Albert Eugene, Harry F. (born Jan. 17, 1893), Leotta C. and Anna S. Charles H. Brosius, who conducts a livery business at Dalmatia, was born April 22, 1870, in Lower Mahanoy township, son of George and Sophia (Trego) Brosius. He was reared upon the farm, and did farm work from the time he commenced regular employment, at the age of thirteen, until he reached the age of seventeen. The next year he clerked in a hotel, and then became traveling salesman for D. F. Witmer, jobber and manufacturer of confectionery, of Herndon, following this line of work for three years. For the next two years he was engaged as bar clerk at Tower City and Lykens, after which he married and returned, to Dalmatia, his early home. For several years he followed different kinds of work, until he entered the hack business in 1900, for Dr. M. L. Emerick of Hickory Corners. Three years later he began the livery business which he has since continued, and in which he has now an extensive custom, having an up-to-date stable, ten horses and excellent equipment. He has the reputation of always keeping reliable teams, and frequently has calls to take out parties. Mr. Brosious has built up a good business by faithful attention to the wants of his patrons, and he has been thrifty of his earnings, having bought his own residence, owns several lots in the borough, and has real estate in, Washington, D.C. He is a thoroughly respected citizen, enjoying the esteem of all who know him. In 1896 Mr. Brosius married Katie Seachrist daughter of John Henry and Elizabeth (Zerbe) Sechrist, and they have a family of eight children: Laura M., John F., Ella M., Charles E., Catharine M., George F., Ralph F. and William E. Mr. Brosius and his family worship with the Lutheran congregation at Dalmatia. Politically he is a Republican. Isaac E. Brosius, son of Charles and Rebecca (Emerick) Brosious, was born Nov. 19, 1852, in Lower Mahanoy township, where he was reared, and where he continued to live until 1890. From END OF PAGE 867 boyhood he was trained to agricultural life, which he has always followed, and in 1890 he moved to the farm near Selinsgrove Junction, in the lower end of Upper Augusta township, this county, which he has since occupied, cultivating the land on shares. There are 140 acres of cleared land in this property, and Mr. Brosious has acquired a valuable farm stock during the twenty years he has been on this place, which he has placed in excellent condition by his intelligent and thrifty methods. Mr. Brosious is a Republican, and is serving his second term as school director of Upper Augusta township, having been last elected in the spring of 1910. He and his family worship in the old Lutheran Church, St. Elias Church in Hollowing Run, where he is serving his second term as elder. On Nov. 17, 1877, Mr. Brosious married Lizzie Weaver, daughter of Henry and Annie (Bonawitz) Weaver, of Mahantango, the former a native of Lower Mahanoy township, where he died and is buried, his grave being at the Bingaman Evangelical Church at the county line. Mrs. Brosious's grandfather was Henry Weaver, who also lived in Lower Mahanoy township, later moving to Juniata county, where he died and is buried. Fifteen children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Brosius, as follows: Charles H.; Jonathan A., deceased in infancy; Arthur F., of Upper Augusta township, who married Mary Drumm; William I.; Forrest E., of Lower Augusta township, who married Virgie Brosius; Stella M., who married Charles Brosius, a contractor of Sunbury; Cartie M., unmarried, who lives at home; Lizzie A., wife of William D. Wolf; a son that died in infancy; Beulah D. and Anna C., both of whom are unmarried and at home; and Eben T., Flossie H., Leroy and E.G., all of whom are attending school. Charles H. Brosious, son of Isaac E., was born March 4, 1880, in Lower Mahanoy township, and there attended the common schools. He was reared to farming, which he followed as assistant to his father in his youth, continuing to live with his parents until 1904. That year he moved to Sunbury, where he continued to reside for a year and a half, following which he was located at Limestone, in Upper Augusta township, for four years, in the spring of 1910 settling at his present home in the central part of Rockefeller township, at the Center (Shipman) schoolhouse. It was at one time the Daniel Conrad homestead, later owned by William Horning, and consists of seventy-one acres of fertile land, with good buildings and various modern improvements. Everything about the property is in excellent condition, and Mr. Brosius has up-to-date machinery and the necessary equipment for carrying on his work profitably and expeditiously. He has a silo, and is wide-awake in adopting any approved apparatus or methods for facilitating good work, being regarded as one of the enterprising young farmers of his section. The farm is sure to improve materially under his energetic management. For nine years Mr. Brosius was engaged in the dairy business, conducting a daily milk route to Sunbury. On July 9, 1904, Mr. Brosious married Katie May Foy, daughter of Daniel B. and Sallie M. (Rebuck) Foy, of Rockefeller township, and they have one daughter, Ellen May. Mr. Brosious and his family worship at the Hollowing Run Lutheran Church. Socially he holds membership in Lodge No. 203, I.O.O.F., of Sunbury. William I. Brosius, son of Isaac E., was born June 2, 1883, in Lower Mahanoy township, Northumberland county, and there began his education in the public schools. When he was in his seventh year his parents moved to their present home in Upper Augusta township, and he continued to work for them on the farm until he reached his majority, at which time he took up the carpenter's trade. He followed that business about four years altogether. In the spring of 1893 he had begun farming on shares, being thus engaged for two years, one in Lower Augusta township and one in Rockefeller township. After that he was employed at his trade until the spring of 1910, when he purchased and settled upon the farm of seventy-two acres in Lower Augusta township, near Mount Zion U. B. Church, which he now occupies. This farm was owned in the earlier days by John Bartholomew and later by F. B. Delbough. Mr. Brosius raises general crops and attends the Sunbury markets. He is prospering by strict attention to his work, and is one of the industrious and respected citizens of his locality. On July 4, 1902, Mr. Brosious married Bertha Daisy Delbough, daughter of F. P. and Carrie Delbough, of Lower Augusta township, and they have three children, namely: Eugene A., B. Violet and W. Leroy. Mr. Brosious and his family are Lutherans in religious faith. He is a Republican on political questions. Peter Brosius, born July 23, 1782, was one of the early residents in the lower end of the county, and followed farming, owning a large acreage, now divided into two farms. The one went to his son Peter and is now owned and occupied by Wesley Snyder; the other went to his son Andrew, and is now owned by the Milton Drumheller estate. Peter Brosius died Nov. 19, 1849, and he and his two wives are buried at the Himmel Church. All his children were born to his first marriage, with Anna Margaretha Hepler, who was born. July 19, 1786, and died April 27, 1838. His second wife, Anna Maria (Hepler), was a sister to the first, and was herself first married to Jacob Reitz, she was born April 4, 1784, and died Sept. 23, 1857. Two sons and three daughters END OF PAGE 868 were born to Peter and Anna Margaretha Brosius: Maricha, who married Godfried Rebuck; Godfried; Peter; Eve, who married a son of Rev. Mr. Hemping; and Anna, who married Benneville Holshue (storekeeper, hotel keeper and postmaster at Greenbrier, in Upper Mahanoy township) and (second) a German named Lawrence, with whom she moved West. Godfried Brosius, son of Peter, was a farmer all his life. He settled in Washington township, where Milton Drumheller now lives, and was a Lutheran member of the Himmel Church there, where he is buried. He was born Jan. 27, 1808, and died November 29, 1851; his wife Catharine Klock, born Nov. 24, 1805, died Dec. 1, 1876, and is also buried at the Himmel Church. We have the following record of their children: (1) Judith married David Ferster, and they lived near Urban, Pa. (2) Samuel obtained the homestead of his father when he was sold out and later moved north of the mountain into one of the Augusta townships. He married Kate Rebuck, and they had children, Wilhelmina, Emma, James, Washington, Zetic and Sivilla. (3) Lydia married Joseph Rebuck and they lived near the Himmel Church in Washington township. (4) Sarah, born in 1837, died in 1854, unmarried. (5) Peter married a Miss Christ and they lived in Ashland, Pa. They had a family. (6) Joseph had a small tract of land in the neighborhood of the Himmel Church, and besides cultivating it followed his trade of carpenter. He married Henrietta Clark and they had Jane (Mrs. Morris Rothermel) and Laura (Mrs. Richard Hilbush). Peter Brosius, the other son of Peter and Anna Margaretha (Hepler) Brosius, passed all his life in the Swabian creek district, near Greenbrier, in what is now Washington township, Washington and Upper Mahanoy townships forming the Swabian Creek Valley. He owned over two hundred acres of land (the farm now owned by Wesley Snyder), and was an enterprising and successful man, in addition to farming being engaged in milling, in which he prospered as in his other work. He operated an oil mill, sawmill and gristmill. He was succeeded by his son Andrew. Peter Brosius died Feb. 2, 1854, aged forty-three years, five months, nineteen days, and was buried at the Himmel Church, of which he was a Lutheran member. His wife, Catharine Gonsor, daughter of Daniel Gonsor, of Washington township, died Oct. 6, 1895, aged eighty-five years, eleven months, twenty-nine days. They had a large family, viz.: Andrew G. is mentioned below; Eve married John Hetrich; Maria (deceased) married a Mr. Beissel; Catharine (deceased) married William Hetrich; Daniel (deceased) lived on part of the homestead, where Charles Brosius now lives; Mary married John Houten (or Houden); Emanuel G. is mentioned below; James died when about eleven years old. Andrew G. Brosius was born in Upper Mahanoy township, Sept. 23, 1832, and died April 16, 1900, aged sixty-seven years. He owned and operated the Brosius mill and farm, his land consisting of 120 acres, now owned by his son-in-law, Wesley Snyder, and the mill is now owned and operated by his son William S. During his ownership of the mill Andrew G. Brosius remodeled it, and he had a linseed oil mill and sawmill, as well as a gristmill. A man of initiative and energy, he long held his place as the leading business man of the district where he did considerable building and lent his influence and aid to many projects which benefited the whole community. He was an active member of the Lutheran congregation at the Himmel Church, where he held various offices, and was also a public officeholder, serving as school director and supervisor of his township. In politics he was a stanch Democrat. Mr. Brosius was twice married. His first wife, Mary A. Schankweiler, daughter of Solomon Schankweiler, of Upper Mahanoy township, was born Sept. 9, 1834, and died March 12, 1867. They were the parents of five children; Sarah married John Keim; Samuel lives at Shamokin, Pa.; Cassie married Wesley Snyder; William S. is mentioned below; Mary married Lewis Rothermel. By his second marriage, to Luzetta Adam, daughter of Jeremiah Adam, there were three children: Galen, of Rough and Ready, Pa; Frances, who married William Snyder; and Andrew Jackson. WILLIAM S. BROSIUS, son of Andrew G., operates the old gristmill and sawmill run by his father and grandfather before him, at Greenbrier, in Washington township, where he was born March 10, 1865. He was reared to work on the farm and in the mill, assisting his father until he reached his majority, after which he was employed in the coal mines at Locust Dale for a period of eight years. For the following ten years he was engaged in railroading, on the Philadelphia & Reading road. On April 2, 1900, he came to his present home and has since devoted himself to the operation of the mill; it is located on a two-acre piece of land. Mr. Brosius has a thriving business, which has continued to grow under his management and he is a reliable miller and honorable in all his transactions, having the respect of all who have had dealings with him. In 1888 Mr. Brosius married Elizabeth Umlauf, daughter of Henry and Dinah (Racebeck) Umlauf of Ashland, Pa., the former of German descent, the latter of English ancestry. Mr. and Mrs. Brosius have had a large family, namely: Francis, Myrtle, Guy, Gertrude, Adda, William, Ethel, a son that died in infancy, Clarence, Emery, Henry, and Roy (who died when five END OF PAGE 869 months old). Mr. Brosius and his family are Lutheran members of the Himmel Church. He is a Democrat in political sentiment. Andrew Jackson Brosius, son of Andrew G. and Luzetta (Adam) Brosius, was born June 20, 1880, in Washington township, and received his education in the local schools. He was reared to farm life, but also gained a familiar knowledge of the milling business, operating the Brosius mill at Greenbrier for four years, from the time he was seventeen years old. For five years he also followed the carpenter's trade, one year as journeyman and four years as boss carpenter, during which time he built a number of houses and barns in the locality, employing at times as many as seven men. In 1904 he began farming at his present home in Upper Mahanoy township, where he owns a tract of one hundred acres, which for a number of years belonged to Amos Mattern. Mr. Brosius has found huckstering profitable, and he makes weekly. trips to Shamokin, where he disposes of his various products. He is a thrifty young farmer, and is making good progress in his work. On Nov. 23, 1901, Mr. Brosius married Sarah Elizabeth Mattern, daughter of Amos Mattern, and they have a family of four children: Harry R., Norman I., Blanch C. and Amelia L. Mr. Brosius was originally identified with the Lutheran congregation at the Himmel Church, but since living in Upper Mahanoy township he and his family attend St. John's Church, where he is at present serving as a deacon. EMANUEL G. BROSIUS, son of Peter and Catharine (Gonsor) Brosius, was born Sept. 17, 1845, in the Swabian creek district, and was reared on the farm of his parents, for whom he continued to work until he was of age. He then began farming on his own account, at the place where Israel Lahr now lives, being located there for eight years. About 1878 he came to his present home in Lower Augusta township, where he has lived continuously since. The first seven years he was a tenant of Henry Reitz, and then bought the place, which contains 150 acres of good land, which under his care has been brought to a highly improved state. He built his house in 1898 and his barn in 1901. The place has been intelligently and systematically cared for ever since it came into his possession, and is now a valuable piece of property. Mr. Brosius formerly held the office of overseer of the poor, and is now serving as supervisor of his township, which office he has held since 1908. He votes independently. He and his family are Lutheran members of St. Elias Church, which he has served as deacon, elder, treasurer and trustee, holding the two offices last named at present. In August, 1870, Mr. Brosius married Wilhelmina Brosius, daughter of Samuel and Catharine (Rebuck) Brosius, who lived at the place now occupied by Milton Drumheller, Samuel Brosius later moving to Plum Creek, in Rockefeller township. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Emanuel G. Brosius: Sarah J. married David Rebuck; Catharine married Frank Hetrich; Emma, married Charles Wanke; Charles is a resident of Sunbury; Irwin is unmarried and lives at home; Virgie married F. Brosious; Nora married Calvin Klock; Annie married John Strasser. Jacob Broscious, great-grandfather of Charles H. Broscious, of Sunbury, farmed in Lower Mahanoy township, this county, and lived in the vicinity of Uniontown, where he died about 1848, at an advanced age. He is buried in the lower end of the county. In religion he was a Lutheran. To him and his wife Catharine Reisel were born the following children: Daniel, John, Jacob, Elias, Samuel, Lydia, Catharine, Maricha and Sally. Samuel Broscious, son of Jacob, was a native of the Swabian creek valley; born in 1821, and farmed in Shamokin township the greater part of his life, also engaging in the hotel business near Paxinos, on the Tulpehocken road. He dealt rather extensively in horses and cattle, and in the pursuit of his various interests became a widely known man. He died at his home in Stonington, in Shamokin township, in 1904, at the advanced age of eighty-three years, and is buried at Snydertown. In religious matters he was connected with the Lutheran church, and in politics he was a Democrat, taking interest in the success of his party and in the local welfare; he served as supervisor and overseer of the poor. Mr. Broscious's first wife, Rebecca (Hepner), daughter of George and Eve (Weiser) Hepner, died in 1859, aged forty-two years, the mother of three children: David, Henry and Elizabeth (who married Jacob Eister and lives in Sunbury). His second marriage was to Mary Ann Hartline, daughter of George Hartline, and she survives him. Two children were born to this union: Sevilla, who married John Richie; and Rebecca, who died young. David Broscious, son of Samuel, was born in 1842 in the Mahantango Valley, and died in Lower Mahanoy township, Sept. 4, 1902. He is buried at Lantz's Church. For five years Mr. Broscious farmed in Lower Augusta township, and then for nineteen years followed that vocation in the Irish Valley, returning to Lower Augusta township and thence moving to Lower Mahanoy, where he was residing at the time of his death. He was an active member of the Democratic party, and held local offices. In religion he adhered to the Reformed faith. Mr. Broscious married Louisa Fegley, daughter of Jacob and Harriet (Zartman) Fegley, and six children were born to them: Web- END OF PAGE 870 ster now of Baltimore, Md.; Charles H.; Mary, who married William Shipe; Katie, who married D. H. Snyder; and two that died in infancy. Charles H. Brosious contractor and builder, of Sunbury senior member of the firm of C. H. Broscious & Co., was born July 4, 1869, at Augustaville, son of David Broscious. He grew up in the Irish Valley where he received his education in the public schools, until he was twenty-one years old living and working on the farm. He then learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed in Shamokin for eleven years in one employ, for the West End Lumber Company. His next work was as carpenter at Sunbury in the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, and in 1904 he embarked in the contracting and building business there on his own account. He is now associated with C. H. Wiest. In addition to their contracting and building business they deal in and manufacture all kinds of lumber and builder's supplies handling lime, cement, builders hardware, slate, roofing, etc., and they have a modern mill, where all kinds of planing mill work can be turned out. The firm employs as many as forty five men, and among other structures of their construction may be mentioned the B. F. Brown three story storehouse; the W. A. Shipman residence on Market street; the Daily printing office at Sunbury; the Charles L. Silvious residence; the Elwood Fasold residence; the David Slear residence on Susquehanna avenue; the Keystone machine works; the Catawissa Avenue M. E. Church, 1910; the Jere Lower residence, and many more of the leading business and residence structures in the borough. Mr. Broscious has applied himself assiduously to his work, and the progress he has made is due entirely to his own efforts. He has established himself in a substantial business, and has built up an extensive trade, the scope of which is widening continually under his energetic and well-directed endeavors. He is well known in fraternal circles, being a member of Maclay lodge No. 632, F. & A.M;, Northumberland Chapter No. 174, R.A.M., and Mount Hermon Commandery, No. 85, K. T., as well as of Washington Camp, No. 189, P.O.S. of A., to which he has belonged since 1893. For eight years be held membership in the I.O.O.F. On March 23, 1897, Mr. Broscious married Alice Zimmerman, daughter of Sebastian Zimmerman, of Sunbury, and six children have been born to them: Marion (who died aged four years) David Sebastian, Harriet Louisa, Henry H., Russell Carl and Raymond Clarence. Mr. Broscious and his family are members of the Lutheran Church. Jacob Brosius, great-grandfather of Maurice E Brosius, lived in Jordan township, Northumberland county, on the farm which later belonged to George Brosius, and followed farming throughout his active years. His children were: Daniel, Elias, John, Jacob, Samuel, Maricha (married Ferdinand Masser), Elizabeth (married Jonas Bohner), Mrs. Solomon Delp and Mrs. Peter Thomas Daniel Brosius, son of Jacob, was born in Jordan township Nov. 14, 1808, and there engaged in farming on an old homestead of the Brosius family, owning a tract of 130 acres now the property of George Emerich. He died Dec. 17, 1885, survived by his wife Sarah (Wenrich), whose people came from the Heidelberg valley in Berks county. She was born Jan. 16, 1815, and died Sept. 14, 1895, and they are buried at St. Paul's. Church, at Urban. Mr. Brosius was first a member or the Hebe Church, later uniting with St. Paul's, and he was active in church work, holding various offices. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Brosius: Michael, George, Annie (1847-1863) and Polly (married Andrew Adams ). Of these, George who was a lifelong farmer lived and died on his father's homestead; he married Polly Wolfgang; and their children were Catharine, Emma, Jane, Ella, Daniel Nora, Cora, Elwood and Lizzie. Michael Brosius, son of Daniel, now a resident of Lower Mahanoy township, was born across the line in Jordan township July 4, 1842. He was reared in Jordan township, where he worked for his father and for a year or two as hired man on farms, in about 1864 beginning farming for himself. He continued to engage in agricultural pursuits in Jordan township until about 1904, when he practically retired, moving to his present home in Lower Mahanoy, where he has a small tract besides his dwelling, which was built by one Daniel Schlegel. Mr. Brosius has led a quiet life, and has taken no part in public affairs except to serve as school director. He has been active, however, in the work of St. Paul's Church at Urban, to which he and his family belong, and which he served as deacon and elder. In politics he is a Democrat. Mr. Brosius has been twice married. His first marriage, which took place during the Civil war, was to Kate Bush, daughter of Samuel and Mary (Hollenbach) Bush, and she died Aug. 19, 1893, aged fifty-four years, nine days. She is buried at St. Pauls Church. Ten children were born to this union: Frank, Henry, William, Maurice F., Gordon, Orlando, Annie, Francis, and two that died young. There are no children by the second marriage, to Barbara Bohner, daughter of Nicholas and Lydia (Spotts) Bohner. MAURICE E. BROSIUS, a farmer of Jordan township, was born Aug. 26, 1874, and has passed practically all his life in that township. He was reared to farm work, and assisted his parents except during the time he was attending school. In addition to the privileges of the public schools END OF PAGE 871 he had the advantages of Uniontown Seminary for several terms. At the youthful age of seventeen he began teaching, receiving his license from Prof. William E. Bloom, and for eight successive terms he followed that profession in Jordan township. Meantime, in the spring of 1900, he bought his present farm, a tract of sixty-seven acres in Jordan township formerly belonging to John T. Wiest, who purchased it from Simon Bohner, whose predecessor was Samuel Bush. Mr. Brosius devotes the principal part of his time to farming, and he has also had considerable success as an insurance agent, being one of the three agents of the Stone Valley Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Mahanoy. He has also been a faithful public servant, having held the office of auditor of his township for seven years in succession. he is a Democrat in politics. Mr. Brosius is well and favorably known in his locality, where his successful business life and excellent public service have gained him high standing among his fellow citizens. On Feb. 8, 1894, Mr. Brosius married Kate E. Wiest, daughter of John T. Wiest, and they have a family of five children: Mabel, Carlos, Fred, Harold and John. Mr. Brosius and his family are members of the Hebe Church, of which he has been a deacon since 1905. Socially he belongs to Washington Camp, No. 232, P.O.S. of A., at Hebe. Abraham Broseus (Brosius), Sr., yeoman, of Upper Mahanoy, township, died there, near the Schuylkill county line, in 1844. he made his last will and testament Jan. 22, 1839, and it was probated Jan. 11, 1844, soon after his death, which likely occurred early that month. He signed this document Abraham "Broseus," and his descendants generally have adhered to that spelling of the name. He provided liberally for his wife Catharine, who was to have all movable property, and after her death her clothes were to be divided between her daughters Euline and Anna Mary. Mr. Broseus left a large estate, being considered a wealthy man in his day. The following children were mentioned in the will Peter, three hundred pounds; Abraham (Abram), three hundred pounds; Euline, who married John Beach; George, deceased, whose heirs were to have $169.49 each; Elizabeth, who married Peter Zegenfus (they were to have sixty dollars more); Nicholas, "yet 100 pounds"; John, "yet 100 pounds"; Anna Mary, who married John Delb, and they obtained the homestead (containing 160 acres) on which they lived in 1839 (they were to pay out 1,100 pounds). Abram Broceus (as he wrote the name), son of Abraham, Sr., was born in Washington township April 24, 1817, and lived there until he was seventeen years old. He then went out to Ohio, stopping first at Massillon, but during the great part of his residence in that state he was located at Akron, where he learned the carpenter's trade, working for Henry Howe, brother of Captain Howe. He followed that trade for a number of years. He was married at Greensburg, near Akron, and there lived until after the birth of his oldest child, Raymond, soon after which he moved to Berrien county, Mich., settling in Buchanan township. Mr. Broceus took up land, and continued to follow his trade besides clearing and cultivating his land until he had his property paid for. Selling that property he bought a 200-acre farm within one mile of the village of Buchanan and there spent the last thirty years of his life. The success he met with was due entirely to his own industry and good management, for he was a self-made man in the best sense of the term. He was the pioneer of his family in Michigan, and in 1909 his descendants organized a family association, holding their first reunion at his old homestead; the second was held in August, 1910. A man of unassuming life and retiring disposition, he was a useful, respected member of society, and his death, which occurred June 2, 1894, was widely mourned. He is buried in the Broceus family plot in Oakridge cemetery, at Buchanan, Mich. Mr. Broceus was a member of the Evangelical Association, and active in church life. In politics he was a Republican. Mr. Broceus married Abigail Smith, who died July 24, 1880, aged fifty-six years. Ten children were born to this union: Raymond, who lives at Buchanan, Mich.; Eliza, wife of Justice H. Steiner; Mary Ann, wife of Solomon Quint, of Carroll, Iowa; William, who died at Buchanan, Mich.; Henry, of Buchanan, Mich.; Malinda, deceased, who was the wife of George W. Rough; Matilda, wife of George Hanley; John W., of Buchanan, Mich.; Emma, wife of Ansalom Wray; and H. Francelia, widow of Jefferson Fowler, of Buchanan, Mich. There were forty-four grandchildren, and twenty-nine great grandchildren. On Oct. 9, 1888, Mr. Broceus married (second) Lucy A. Kauffman, daughter of Daniel and Mary (Ressler) Kauffman, of Lower Augusta township, Northumberland Co., Pa., where Mrs. Broceus was born. No children were born to this union. Mrs. Broceus continues to make her home in Buchanan, Berrien Co., Mich., visiting her kindred in Northumberland county, Pa., every two or three years. According to the records at the Northumberland county courthouse, one Abraham Brosius must have died shortly before Nov. 24, 1852, in Lower Augusta township. After the widow had renounced the privilege of administration, papers were given to Elias Brosius, probably a son. THOMAS J. LUCKENBILL, who has a large farm in the Tuckahoe valley, in Point township, END OF PAGE 872 Northumberland county, one of the finest farms in that section, was born Sept. 12, 1861, in Windsor township, Berks Co., Pa., and belongs to one of the early settled families of that county. Mr. Luckenbill's first ancestor in this country was Johan Tost (Ekel ?) Luckenbill, who came from Germany on the ship "Thistle," landing at Philadelphia Sept. 20, 1730. (Another account says Johan Ekel and his brother Hendrick landed from the "Thistle" Aug. 29, 1730.) He and his brother Hendrick, who emigrated with him, are the progenitors of the family in this country. It is believed that Johan and his wife are buried at Bowers Church, in Perry township, Berks county, and it is traditional that he was married when he came to America, that his wife was a Swiss, and that he came from that part of Germany that bounds Switzerland. He had eight children: (1) Maria married Michael Deibert (or Divert) and settled in Schuylkill county. (2) Heinrich married Catharine Weber, who, tradition says, was of Swiss extraction. In 1759 he was a taxable resident of Maxatawny township, Berks county, owning land in the vicinity of Bowers. He later removed to Wayne township, Schuylkill county, and shortly before his death became totally blind. His children were: Adam, Henry, Solomon, George, Susanna, Sophia, Rebecca and Beckie. (3) Abraham married Eva Lengel, and had these children: John, Abraham, Jonas, Emanuel, Kate, Rebecca, Sallie and Eva. Abraham Luckenbill is said to have settled in Schuylkill county. In 1759 he was a taxpayer in Rockland township, and he later moved across the line into Maxatawny township. (4) John married Polly West and had two children, Isaac and Mary. (5) Andraes married Miss Lengel and their children were George, Joel, Sallie, Edith, Diana and Maria. (6) Christian is mentioned below. (7) George, of whose history no records are in evidence. (8) Another son whose name is unknown. Christian Luckenbill, son of the emigrant Johan, was born in 1767 and died about 1852. He was early a settler in Perry township, Berks county, where he was a farmer and owned land, and it is known that he lived in that county for some years, but in 1790 he and his brother George were taxable residents of Manheim township, Schuylkill county. It is traditional that after 1800 he returned to Berks county, and was buried at Bowers Church in Maxatawny township, where he had a farm. He married Catharine Kline, of Maxatawny township, and they had children: Thomas; David, who settled in Jefferson county, Pa.; Benjamin, who settled in Iowa; Elizabeth, who married Jacob Rothermel; and another daughter, Mrs. Heckman. Thomas Luckenbill, born in Perry township in 1800, died there in 1863. He was a farmer and owner of the Luckenbill homestead, owning the 200-acre tract later the property of his son Thomas, and was a school director and useful citizen. He married Annie Wink, daughter of John Wink, of Maxatawny township, and ten children were born to this union: Augustus; Edwin; Lucy, who died in infancy; James; Thomas; Sarah Ann, wife of Simon Adam, deceased; Jacob, who died aged forty-five; Simon; Alfred, and Cyrus. James Luckenbill, son of Thomas, was born in 1831 in Perry township, Berks county, and died in 1903 near Virginville, that county; he is buried at Dunkel's Church. By occupation a farmer, he had a farm of 157 acres above Virginville, and he was active in the life of his locality, serving as school director and supervisor of his township. Politically he was a Democrat. His widow, Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob and Polly (Folk) Heinly, lives at Kutztown, Pa., making her home with her daughter, Mrs. George Ramer. She is now (1910) over seventy-five years old. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. James Luckenbill: Elenora, Mrs. Rolandus Dreibelbies, of Virginville, Pa.; James W., who died in 1907; Thomas J.; Jonah, who married William Sunday; Alice, wife of James Yeager; Oscar, of Maxatawny township; Angelina, Mrs. George Seidel; and Laura, Mrs. George Ramen. Thomas J. Luckenbill attended the schools in his home district and from his youth was familiar with farm work. After working on the railroad for five years he commenced farming in Tilden township, Berks county, farming there for seven years, on a place along the Schuylkill river, south of Hamburg. Selling out he moved to Montour county, where he conducted a creamery at Washingtonville for one year, after which he farmed in that region for eleven years. For another year he was employed in the staple works at Williamsport, Pa., during which time he met with an accident which caused the loss of two of his fingers. In 1907 he settled at his present home in Point township, Northumberland county, where he owns an extensive tract of 339 acres, limestone soil, regarded as one of the most valuable properties in that section. Mr. Luckenbill rents his land, but he gives his personal attention to the improvement of the place, and in 1909 he built a fine residence there which adds materially to the value of the farm. By good management he has become successful and his prosperity is well deserved. In 1880 Mr. Luckenbill married Ida Mengel, daughter of Samuel and Mary (Zottlemoyer) Mengel, of Windsor township, Berks county, and grand- daughter of Jacob Mengel. Two children have been born to this union: (1) Elwood, born in Windsor township, Berks county, married Eva Gresh, daughter of George Gresh, of Washingtonville, Pa., but of a family formerly from Berks county. They have two children, Lesley and Elwood. (2) Mary married George Wallice but has END OF PAGE 873 no children. They live in Montour county. Mr. Luckenbill and his family are members of the Reformed Church.