Floyd's Northumberland County Genealogy Pages 446 thru 468

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	HORACE L. FOLLMER, merchant miller at Watsontown, Northumberland 
county, has been established in business at that place only a short 
time, but he is conducting a well known plant built by John McFarland 
and operated for a time by Follmer, Fowler & Co.
	Mr. Follmer was born April 12, 1872, at Williamsport, Lycoming Co., 
Pa., near which place his grandfather, William Follmer, owned a farm 
upon which he lived and carried on agricultural pursuits.  He died upon 
his farm.  Among his children were Adam, Peter (who is living on the old 
homestead), William, Amelia, Susan, Maggie and Lydia.
	William Follmer, son of William, was born on the homestead in 
Lycoming county, and followed farming during his active years. He died 
at Trout Run, Lycoming county, March 27, 1910, aged seventy-four years, 
an honored and respected citizen of that community. He was elected 
prothonotary of Lycoming county and filled that office efficiently and 
creditably. He married Catharine Biehl, daughter of Peter Biehl, and to 
them were born children as follows: Ella, married to J. C. Fowler; 
Jennie; Clayton C., deceased; William, who died young; Clemine, who 
married Rev. C. P. Bastian and is now living at Keyser, W. Va.; Horace 
L.; and Margaret.
	Horace L. Follmer attended public school at Williamsport, later was 
a pupil in the high school at Watsontown, and finally took a course at 
the 
	
	END OF PAGE 446
	
Williamsport Commercial College, from which he was graduated in 1892.  
After working three  months in the mill he engaged in farming, first 
with his father and later on his own account, continuing thus for 
thirteen years after he commenced his independent career. During this 
time he was located at Trout Run, Lycoming county, whence he came to 
Watsontown to enter the milling business.  He leased his mill, which is 
on Eighth street, along the Pennsylvania railroad, June 4, 1908, from 
his father and widowed sister-in-law, Mrs. Clayton C. Follmer.  This 
plant is equipped with all the latest and most desirable machinery, 
having the full roller process, and has a capacity of one hundred 
barrels daily. In addition to milling Mr. Follmer deals in flour, grain 
and feed, and he does a thriving business in both lines, his enterprise 
and good judgment being apparent in all his transactions.  Mr. Follmer 
is a Presbyterian, belonging to the church at Trout Run. He is 
unmarried.

	VAN KIRK. The Van Kirks came to this region from New Jersey, where 
the emigrant ancestors settled upon their arrival in this country early 
in the eighteenth century.  The family is of Scotch descent, the name 
having originally been Kirk.  During religious disturbances and clan 
wars the family left Scotland, fleeing with others to Holland, where the 
"Van"  was prefixed to the name.
	Matthias Van Kirk, from whom the members of the family mentioned in 
this article are descended, lived in New Jersey, and came to Point 
township, Northumberland county.  He followed the business of freighter, 
conveying goods from Philadelphia to New York and other points. His 
children were born as follows:  Sarah, July 16, 1792; Ralph, Oct. 22, 
1794; Charity, Oct. 23, 1796; Elizabeth, Oct. 9, 1798; Mary, June 24, 
1800; Joseph, Oct. 14, 1801; William, Jan. 14, 1803; Catharine, Aug. 22, 
1804; Thompson, Jan. 14, 1805; Daniel, May 16, 1808.
	Joseph Van Kirk, son of Matthias, was born Oct. 14, 1801, in New 
Jersey, and there in young manhood learned the trade of shoemaker. 
Coming to Northumberland county, Pa., he settled in Point township, he 
and his brother buying a tract of land which they farmed until 1860. 
Joseph Van Kirk then purchased the "Washington House" in Northumberland 
and moved thither. After a few years he purchased the site and built 
what is known as the "Van Kirk House" in Northumberland, the leading 
hotel there, and he prospered greatly in this business, becoming a man 
of means.  Later he purchased what was known as the "Mansion House" in 
Chillisquaque township, this county, and moved thither, passing the 
remainder of his life at that location. He was killed by a train, at 
Milton, Pa., in 1885. Mr. Van Kirk was twice married, his first wife 
being Caroline Hunsinger, his second Elizabeth Perry.  By his first 
union there was a family of eleven children: William, John M. (who died 
young), Harriet (Mrs. William Robbins), Daniel B., Sarah J. (Mrs. Daniel 
Lesher), Mrs. Joseph Hein, Mrs. Caroline Woods, Ellen (Mrs. Yoxtheimer), 
Mary and Charles.
	William Van Kirk, son of Joseph, was born Feb. 12, 1830, and 
received his education in the schools of Point township.  He was a 
farmer throughout his life except for the time he was in the Union 
service during the Civil war. When the war broke out in 1861 he 
enlisted, and served for four years  He was first with the Heavy 
Artillery at Fortress Monroe, later a member of Company G, 188th 
Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, was wounded, and was in hospital at 
Philadelphia, Pa. After the war he resumed agricultural pursuits,  which 
he continued to follow until his death, July 4, 1901.  He is buried at 
Milton, Pa.  Mr. Van Kirk was a member of the Lutheran church. He 
married Mary Perry, daughter of James Perry, of Liberty township, 
Montour Co., Pa., and their only son was James W. Van Kirk.
	JAMES W. VAN KIRK, of East Chillisquaque township, Northumberland 
county, was born in 1857, in Point township, and there received his 
primary education. Later he attended the Philadelphia Art School, where 
he took a course in lettering and ornamental pen work, and he is an 
elegant penman, his work being exceptionally fine. He finds considerable 
to do in that line for the various colleges and high schools. He indexed 
the books in the county offices at Sunbury. Mr. Van Kirk has attained a 
wide reputation in his line and his services are in general demand.  He 
makes his home in East Chillisquaque township, and has served that 
township as school director, and in February, 1910, was elected justice 
of the peace. He was a member of the board of enumerators when the 
census of 1900 was taken. Politically he is a Republican.
	In August 1891, Mr. Van Kirk married Mary Ellen Harner, daughter of 
Amos Harner, and they have had the following children: Oley H., 
Tamenund, Zoe, M. S. Quay and Edna D.
	William H. Van Kirk, son of Matthias Van Kirk, was born in New 
Jersey in 1803, and came to Pennsylvania about the same time as his 
brother, settling in Northumberland county before his marriage. He had 
attended school only two days, but by thrift and industry, and close 
application to his work, he prospered and became quite successful, 
following farming all his active years. He owned the farm in Point 
township which is now the property of his son Charles M. He and his 
wife, Alvina  (Huntzinger), daughter of Henry Huntzinger, are buried at 
Northumberland, Pa.  Mr. Van Kirk died July 11, 1884, in his eighty-
second 
	
	END OF PAGE 447
	
year.  He and his family were Presbyterians in religious connection. In 
politics he was a Republican, and he served a number of years as 
supervisor of his township.  Twelve children were born to Mr. and Mrs. 
William H. Van Kirk:  Mary J., William, Lucy Ann, David, Susan R., John 
T., Emeline, Joseph W., Charles C. (who died when two years of age), 
Harriet L., Clara E. and Charles M.
	CHARLES M. VAN KIRK, a farmer of Point township, was born March 11, 
1854, on the farm he now occupies. He attended public school, and 
subsequently continued to reside at home, working for his father until 
the latter's death, when, in 1885, he began farming on his own account. 
He has remained on the home place ever since, and has 165 acres of good 
land, devoted to general farming, in which he has been very successful. 
He attends the Northumberland market.  Mr. Van Kirk has taken an 
interest in the general welfare and has served six years as school 
director of his township. He is a Republican in political matters. As a 
citizen he has the respect of all who know him, and he is regarded as 
one of the substantial residents of his locality.
	On April 3, 1880, Mr. Van Kirk married Mary Minerva Gougler, 
daughter of Abraham and Caroline (Kelly) Gougler. She died in 1893, at 
the age of thirty-three years, the mother of four children, namely Ada 
E. married Fred Epler; William O. married Sadie Orner; George E. married 
Mary Neidig; Lottie A. married John Baird. In 1897 Mr. Van Kirk married 
(second) Ida Bell Gougler, a cousin of his first wife, and daughter of 
George Gougler, who lives near Port Trevorton; Pa. Three children have 
been born to this union: Mary G., Dorothy and Charles Richard.

	GEORGE H. DAGLE, a farmer in the Tuckahoe Valley, in Point 
township, Northumberland county, was born Feb. 29, 1868, in Chapman 
township, Snyder Co., Pa., son of John Frederick Dagle.
	John Frederick Dagle was born April 8, 1836, in Germany, and came 
to America when sixteen years old.  Settling at Selinsgrove; Snyder Co., 
Pa., he lived there until March, 1870, when he removed to Point 
township,  Northumberland county, making his home on the farm now owned 
by his son George H. Dagle. He was a blacksmith, and followed his trade 
in Snyder county and also after settling in Point township, where he was 
a successful farmer. Mr. Dagle retired in 1904, after which he lived at 
Milton, Lewisburg and Northumberland, making his home in the latter 
borough at the time of his death, Oct. 30, 1910. He was always willing 
to give his services to the promotion of the general welfare and was an 
active and useful citizen, having served Point township as school 
director and overseer of the poor, and he served many years as a member 
of the council in the Lutheran church, to which he belonged as do also 
his family.  In political sentiment he is a Republican.  He married 
Elizabeth Ertley, who was born June 15, 1838, and died Sept. 4, 1898, in 
her sixty-first year; she is buried at Northumberland.  Six children 
were born to Mr. and Mrs. Dagle: Mary married H. F. Geise; Sallie 
married E. H. Luckhart; John is a resident of Augustaville, Pa.; George 
H. is on the home farm; William is a resident of Mount Holly Springs, 
Cumberland Co., Pa.; Charles makes his home in Sunbury, Northumberland 
county.
	George H. Dagle received his education in the public schools of 
Point township, and was reared to farming, working for his parents until 
he reached his majority.  After that he continued at home until twenty-
five years old, when he married and began farming on his own account in 
Point township, as a tenant for ten years, until he was in a position to 
buy a place of his own. In 1904 he purchased his father's farm in the 
same township, a tract of 145 acres especially adapted to fruit growing. 
Here he has since carried on general farming, and his thrift and 
industry have been well rewarded.
	In 1894 Mr. Dagle married Lillie C. Gibbons, daughter of James and 
Caroline (Garman) Gibbons, farming people of Point township, and to them 
have been born four children:  Carrie E., Forest F., Jane A. and Mabel 
O. Mr. Dagle is a member and official of Trinity Lutheran church, in 
Point township. Politically he is a Republican.

	GEORGE C. REESER, contractor of Watsontown, and one of the most 
enterprising factors in the industrial life of that borough, has spent 
all his life in this part of Northumberland county, having been born 
Dec. 5, 1862, at Turbutville, son of James Reeser.
	Samuel Reeser, his grandfather, was born in Berks county, Pa., and 
moving thence to Union county, Pa., settled in the White Deer Valley, 
where he purchased a farm and followed farming until his death, in 1876. 
His wife, a Miss Fegley, also a native of Berks county, lived to the 
advanced age of eighty-four years. They were the parents of a large 
family, viz.: Samuel, of Lock Haven, Pa.; Manoah, who settled in 
Missouri; James; Peter F., who is farming the old homestead place in 
White Deer Valley; Rev. Thomas A., a Lutheran minister, who was drowned 
at Salladasburg, Pa.; Isabella, Mrs. Jackson Hartraft; Caroline, Mrs. 
Henry Shannon; Lizzie, Mrs. William Shade, of Williamsport, Pa.; and 
Emeline, Mrs. John Gerhart.
	James Reeser, son of Samuel, was born Feb. 16, 1839, in Berks 
county, and died March 20, 1902, at Watsontown, Northumberland county, 
where 
	
	END OF PAGE 448
	
he settled in 1873. He had moved with his father to Lycoming county, 
when a boy, and learned the carpenter's trade, after his removal to 
Watsontown finding work with the Watsontown Planing Mill Company, with 
whom he remained until his death, at which time he was one of the oldest 
employees of that concern.  He married Mary E. Frey, who was born Oct. 
24, 1840, in Northumberland county, daughter of Solomon and Sarah 
(Sauter) Frey, and died March 15, 1892.  Mr. and Mrs. Reeser are buried 
in the Watsontown cemetery. They had children as follows: George C.; and 
William H., a lumberman of Watsontown, who married Lottie Rose and has 
had three children, Edward (who died aged ten years), Helen and 
Frederick
	George C. Reeser attended the elementary and high schools of 
Watsontown.  His first position was with the Watsontown Planing Mill 
Company, in whose employ he remained until the mill was burned, in 1899.  
He had been engaged in contracting, and when the firm reorganized, as a 
stock company, the same year, he became a stockholder and director, the 
business being from that time carried on under the name of the 
Watsontown Door and Sash Company. Mr. Reeser is still engaged in 
contracting at this mill, where about ninety skilled workmen are 
employed.  In 1904 the plant was again destroyed by fire, the buildings 
being a total loss on that occasion, but they have been replaced by 
substantial structures and the plant is a large and well equipped 
establishment. The company enjoys a large trade in the leading cities of 
the East. Mr. Reeser has other large interests, being a stockholder in 
the Watsontown Brick, Clay & Produce Company, of which he was one of the 
original promoters. He is one of the most substantial business men of 
the borough, where he has gained high standing by uprightness and 
integrity in all his transactions. He has initiative and ability, and 
has made a success by the most honorable methods.
	Mr. Reeser has no special political affiliations, voting 
independently.  He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and socially 
belongs to the Royal Arcanum and the Jr. O.U.A.M.
	In 1887 Mr. Reeser married Margaret E. Crawford, daughter of Jacob 
and Emily (Guffy) Crawford and granddaughter of Elijah Crawford. Jacob 
Crawford, her great-grandfather, was a native of Montour county, Pa., 
and married a Miss Shirk, from England. They had three sons, Elijah, Kim 
and Charles. Elijah Crawford was born in 1796 in Montour county, and 
died in 1868. About 1827 he moved to Packers island, where he remained 
until 1829, in which year he settled in Delaware township, 
Northumberland. county. He was a farmer by occupation. Mr. Crawford was 
a member of the Presbyterian church. During the war of 1812 he served 
his country as a soldier. He married Eleanor Voris, who died in 1883, 
and they were the parents of nine children, but we have record of only 
five, namely:  Jacob; Priscilla May, Mrs. Daniel Blue; Sarah Ann, Mrs. 
John Good; Mary Jane, Mrs. Henry P. Follmer; and Thomas, of Turbut 
township,  Northumberland county. All of these but Jacob were living in 
1890.
	Jacob Crawford, son of Elijah Crawford and father of Mrs. George C. 
Reeser, married Emily Guffy, daughter of John Guffy and granddaughter of 
Alexander Guffy.  They had children as follows: Josephine, who married 
John Moyer; Ellen, who married James Schell; Allen C., who married 
Margaret Sheep; Ambrose, who married Georgiana Taggert; Margaret E., 
Mrs. George C. Reeser; Lou, who married Al. Cadwallader; and William.

	ADAM BATDORF, deceased, who was a dealer in paints, wall paper and 
window shades at Milton, Pa., with his place of business at No. 17 
Broadway, was a resident of that town for nearly half a century, and in 
that time proved himself a loyal citizen and upright man.
	The name Batdorf was originally spelled Botdorf. Adam Batdorf's 
grandfather came to America from Germany and settled in Lebanon county, 
Pa.  Benjamin Batdorf, father of Adam, was a farmer in Lebanon county, 
and from there came to Milton, later moving to Chillisquaque township, 
and there following farming and teaming. He died at Milton in 1887, and 
was buried in Harmony cemetery. He married Eva Stine, a native of 
Lebanon county, and their children were: John, Mary, Samuel, Amanda, 
Levi, Caroline, Adam, James, Catharine, Matilda and William.
	Adam Batdorf received his education in the common schools and was 
first employed at farm work. He next spent one summer working in a brick 
yard, and then went to learn the painting and paper hanging trade, in 
Milton, and this engaged him for ten years. He became expert in his 
work, and his time was fully occupied.  In 1873 he opened his store as a 
dealer in paints, wall paper and window shades on Arch street.  Then 
after the great fire, in 1880, he built on Elm street. His last location 
was on Broadway.
	Mr. Batdorf was a soldier during the Civil war. He enlisted first 
in Company K, 3d Pennsylvania militia, in 1862, and in 1863 he became a 
member of Company I, 37th regiment of Emergency men. In February, 1865, 
he enlisted in Company E, 74th Pa. Vol. Inf. for one year, and was sent 
to Virginia, where he was on guard duty most of the time.  He was very 
active in G.A.R. circles, and in 1908 was elected treasurer of the 
Susquehanna District Association of the G.A.R., and re-elected in 1909. 
He was a past commander of Milton Post No. 129, G.A.R., having been 
elected to that office five times.  He was a past officer in the 
I.O.O.F., and at the time of his 
	
	END OF PAGE 449
	
death was captain of the Canton of that body. He married Sarah B. 
Kauffman, daughter of John W. Kauffman, of Milton. To this union were 
born: Maggie, who married W. E. Eckbert; Oliver J. O., manufacturer of 
the Good Samaritan ointment, for which a stock company has been formed 
and a large business being done; Clarence W., of Milton; Albert H., who 
died in Chicago; Annie W., wife of Frank W. Bailey, D. D. S., of Milton; 
Charles A., of Milton; Spencer, of Milton; and Harry A., who died, aged 
twenty-six years. Mr. Batdorf was a Republican in politics, and was 
unswerving in his allegiance to the party - an allegiance that began 
when he cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. He died 
May 9, 1911, aged seventy-two years.
	John W. Kauffman, father of Mrs. Batdorf, was born in 1795, and 
died May 7, 1885. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. His wife Margaret 
was born in 1806, and died Sept. 5, 1882, and both are buried in Harmony 
cemetery, Milton.

	BENJAMIN F. BOWER, a farmer of West Chillisquaque township who has 
a valuable place of 150 acres lying along the west branch of the 
Susquehanna, is a native of Center county, Pa., born Aug. 23, 1863, in 
Rush township.  The Bower family was in earlier days settled in Berks 
county, this state, where John Bower, the great-grandfather of Benjamin 
F., was born. He died in Lycoming county. His wife was Elizabeth Bohn.
	Henry Bower, son of John and Elizabeth (Bohn) Bower, was born in 
1784 in Berks county, moved to Lycoming county when a young man, and 
followed farming, also working in the lumber districts. He was one of 
the early settlers in his locality. In White Deer township, Union Co., 
Pa., he married Elizabeth Wertzler, who was born in 1773 in Berks 
county, daughter of Jacob Wertzler (who died at Reading, Berks county), 
and came to Lycoming county when a young girl.  Mrs. Bower died in 
February, 1836, aged sixty-three years, and is buried at the Stone 
Church in Brady township, Lycoming county. Mr. Bower died in that county 
in 1866, aged eighty-two years, six months, six days, and is buried 
there, at the Brick Church in Clinton township. They were members of the 
Lutheran Church, and in politics he was a Democrat. Their children were 
as follows: Jonathan was killed by the cars at Montgomery, Pa.; Abraham 
was killed in the Civil war; Mary A. (deceased) was the wife of Aaron 
Wentzel; Jacob is mentioned below; Sarah (deceased) was the wife of 
Peter Swartz, a farmer of Dakota; Elizabeth (deceased) was the wife of 
John Huntington and they lived in New Mexico; Lydia died unmarried.
	Jacob Bower, son of Henry, was born April 12, 1816, in Washington 
township, Lycoming county, and resided with his parents until he reached 
the age of twenty-one years, meantime attending the local subscription 
schools for three months each winter during his boyhood, and working on 
his father's land the rest of the time. He then went to Black Hole, also 
in his native township, where he was employed by his brother-in-law, 
Peter I. Swartz, in a distillery, working there for twelve years,  for 
ten dollars a month, at that time considered good wages.  He and his 
brother-in-law then went to Clearfield county and purchased a sawmill, 
which they operated  successfully for eleven  years, after which Mr. 
Bower moved to Rush township, Center county. He lived there for several 
years, thence removing to Gregg township, Union county, in 1866. This 
region was then an unbroken wilderness, where wild animals still roamed, 
and he shared the hardships of life in such a region with the other 
hardy settlers who made a home there; in time becoming a prominent 
farmer of his district, where he is well and favorably remembered. He 
passed the remainder of his, long life on his homestead in Gregg 
township, dying there Nov. 3, 1900.  A man of sterling integrity and the 
highest character, he had the affectionate regard of all who knew him, 
and was greatly respected throughout his section. He was one of the 
oldest members of the Patrons of Husbandry in Union county, having been 
a charter member of Spring Garden Grange, No. 32.  His first 
presidential vote was cast for Buchanan, but he was independent on 
political questions, supporting what he thought was right, regardless of 
party. In religion he was a Baptist, and filled office in his church. 
His death was looked upon as a public loss in the community.
	On Feb. 9, 1851, in Morris township, Clearfield county, Mr. Bower 
married Elizabeth Haas, who was born Oct. 26, 1824, in Moreland 
township, Lycoming county, and died Jan. 9, 1909, at West Milton, Union 
county.  Her parents, John and Mary (Baker) Haas, spent most of their 
lives in Northumberland county, but she was a young child when her 
father died, in 1828, and she made her home in the family of Peter 
Swartz for some time. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Jacob 
Bower: (1) John H., born July 30, 1851, now a resident of Danville, Pa.; 
married Maggie Gulich and has four children, Emma, Miriam, Elizabeth and 
Charles.  (2) Abraham. S., born Oct. 6, 1853, a farmer in Gregg 
township, Union county, married Hannah Gross and has two children, Retta 
and Elizabeth.  (3) Lydia E., born May 3, 1855, in Center county, Pa., 
married J. S. Houser, who operated the old Bower homestead.  (4) Charles 
W., born Feb. 5, 1857, a lumberman at Allenwood, Pa., married Tilla 
Kolbe, and they have three children, Francis E., George M. and Elizabeth 
C. (5) Mary M., born Jan. 16, 1859, married William Houser (brother of 
J. S. Houser), a carpen-
	
	END OF PAGE 450
	
ter and they reside at West Milton, Pa.  They have one son, Franklin B. 
(4) Benjamin F. is the youngest of the family.
	Benjamin F. Bower received his education in the schools of the home 
neighborhood.  He worked for his father until he reached the age of 
twenty-seven, after which he farmed the homestead for his father for six 
years.  For the next seven years he was on the old Charles Wolfe farm, 
in West Chillisquaque township, now the Fonda estate, along the west 
branch, and in 1902 he located on the tract in that township which he 
has since farmed, one of the Packer farms.  He has 150 acres of good 
land, all up-to-date machinery and conveniences, and is an intelligent 
farmer, keeping abreast of the times in his work, as his farm shows. He 
is well thought of in the community, has served three years as school 
director, and is a substantial and worthy citizen, deserving the respect 
he enjoys.  He hauled the first load of stone for the Montandon high 
school. Politically he is a Democrat, in religion a Baptist, holding 
membership in the church at Milton.
	Mr. Bower married Mary Elizabeth Huff, daughter of William Huff, of 
Union county. They have six children: Florence N., wife of John Keiser; 
Mary E.; Jacob; Willard; Homer and Carrie.

	WILLIAM THOMAS JOHNSTON, D. D. S., a popular young professional man 
and public spirited and progressive citizen of Milton, was born in 
Williamsport, Pa., in August, 1877, son of Robert G. Johnston.  He 
attended the Williamsport public schools, and then entered the employ of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company as a clerk, but finding his tastes led 
him rather into the professional world, he again turned his attention to 
study, and entering the University of Pennsylvania, was graduated 
therefrom in 1899 with the degree of D.D.S.  In the spring of 1900 he 
located for practice at his present place in the Knauer building, No. 43 
1/2 South Front street, Milton, and since that time he has been kept 
steadily busy with an ever increasing practice. He is thoroughly at home 
with the latest improved methods, and his work is performed 
conscientiously.  He is a member of Kirk's Dental Society. Fraternally 
the Doctor is a Mason, being a member of Milton Lodge No. 256, F. & 
A.M., and of Williamsport Lodge of Perfection, 14th degree.  His 
religions connection is with the Methodist church. He is active in all 
work for the moral well being of the town.
	Dr. Johnston married Hannah Lundy, daughter of Ezra B. Lundy, of 
Williamsport. They reside at Williamsport.

	OLIVER S. BARTO, who owns and conducts the "Farmers Hotel" at 
Watsontown, has been the owner of that establishment since 1901 and has 
managed it himself since 1902.  Though he had no previous experience in 
the hotel business he has made a success of the enterprise, so that the 
place has not only been profitable to him, but a credit to the borough.  
Mr. Barto is a native of Turbutville, Northumberland county, born Feb. 
19, 1874, and comes of a family which has long been established in 
Pennsylvania, Berks county having been the home of his ancestors for 
several generations.
	The Bartos are of French Huguenot extraction, the French form  of 
the name being  Perdeau. Three of the name came to America in the early 
days, one John Barto locating in Berks county, Pa., in 1730, Isaac Barto 
prior to 1750 and Nicholas Barto in 1773.  The Isaac Barto mentioned was 
a large taxable in Oley township, Berks county, in 1759, in which year 
he paid £14 tax. His descendants are still living in Washington 
township, that county. Some time prior to 1735 Jean Peardeau located in 
Colebrookdale township, Berks county, where he died at an advanced age 
in 1770, leaving a numerous progeny.
	Abraham Barto, great-grandfather of Oliver S. Barto, was a farmer 
of Colebrookdale township, Berks county. His children were: Isaac, who 
lived in Oley township, that county; Benjamin; and Susanna, who married 
Daniel Leinbach and lived at Friedensburg, in Oley township (both are 
now deceased).
	Benjamin Barto, son of Abraham, was born in 1824, in Colebrookdale 
township, Berks Co., Pa., and lived there until his removal to 
Northumberland county, in 1857. Here he settled on a farm of 162 acres 
in Lewis township, one and a quarter miles from Turbutville, where he 
lived until his death, which occurred Jan. 29, 1898. He is buried in the 
cemetery at Turbutville. Mr. Barto was a member of the Reformed church 
and a Republican in politics. He was an intelligent man, and took an 
interest in public affairs, serving as supervisor and overseer of the 
poor in his district. His wife, Anna (Deysher), daughter of Jacob 
Deysher, of Pike township, Berks county, died on the farm near 
Turbutville Jan. 29, 1863, at the age of thirty-six years.  She was the 
mother of twelve children, of whom we have the following record:  
Abraham is a resident of Montgomery, Pa.; Augustus D. is the father of 
Oliver S. Barto; Benjamin lives at Erie, Pa.; Hon. James lives at 
Jetmore, Kans., where he has served as judge (he has suffered the loss 
of an arm); Morris died Oct. 30, 1862, aged seven years; Anna married 
Scott Levan and they live at Watsontown; Mary married Jacob Rovenalt and 
they live at Turbutville; Emma married George Williams, of Turbutville; 
Amanda married William Phillips and lives at Montgomery, Pennsylvania.
	Augustus F. Barto was born Jan. 13, 1846, in Oley township, Berks 
Co., Pa., and received his 
	
	END OF PAGE 451
	
early education in the local schools.  He was reared on the farm, there 
and in Northumberland county, coming with his parents to Lewis township 
April 4, 1857, when he was a boy of eleven. He worked for. his father up 
to the time of his enlistment, Nov. 16, 1863, at Reading, for service in 
the regular army, joining Company F, 2d Battalion, 15th United States 
Infantry, for five years. During the early part of his term he was in 
the Civil war, participating in Sherman's famous march to the sea, from 
April, 1864, to Sept. 1, 1864.  For the last eighteen months of his 
service he was a corporal, and he was honorably discharged Nov. 16, 
1868.
	Returning home at the close of his military service, Mr. Barto 
engaged at laboring work and lime burning until 1879, after which he was 
employed on public works for a few years.  From Sept. 3, 1883, to April 
2, 1910, he worked for the Wagner Planing Mill Company at Watsontown, in 
which borough he is now living in retirement. He owns his home there and 
is comfortably situated.  Mr. Barto is an independent voter, and in 
religious matters he and his family are identified with the Lutheran 
church.  He is a member of Bryson Post, No. 225, G.A.R., of Watsontown.
	On June 14, 1870, Mr. Barto married Caroline E. Schook, daughter of 
Philip and Susan (Sandy) Schook, whose family consisted of thirteen 
children, namely: John, who is deceased; Benjamin, of Elmira, N. Y.; 
Lewis, of Horseheads, N. Y.; David, of Williamsport, Pa.; Philip, of 
Muncy, Pa.; William, of Watsontown; Rebecca, Mrs. William High; Matilda, 
Mrs. Sol. Stein; Sarah and Mary, who are unmarried and live together; 
Caroline E., Mrs. Barto; Susan, deceased; and Catherine, Mrs. Jacob 
Weaver. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Barto: Susan A. is the 
wife of Robert Merrell and they live at Watsontown; Sallie is married to 
Frank Leform and lives at Montgomery, Pa.; Oliver S. lives at 
Watsontown; Isaac is a resident of Williamsport, Pa.; Tillie is the wife 
of Henry Henshaw, of Newberry, Pa.; Harry is a resident of South 
Williamsport; Rachel married Fred Davis and they live at Plymouth, Pa.; 
Edward is a resident of Muncy, Pa.; Myrtle married George Hoff and lives 
at Milton, Pa.; Laura is unmarried.
	Oliver S. Barto was educated in the public and high schools of 
Watsontown, and when fifteen years old began working in the planing mill 
at Watsontown. He was thus engaged for about fourteen years in 
succession, and since 1902 has been engaged in conducting the "Farmers 
Hotel," which he purchased in 1901 from the McNulty estate. The hotel is 
located on upper Main street, and is an old-established stand.   It 
contains  twenty-three rooms, comfortably furnished and well equipped, 
and is run along modern lines, Mr. Barto taking a genuine interest in 
the welfare and comfort of his guests, who show their appreciation of 
his solicitude by continued patronage.  He has done well in this 
venture, to which he has applied his best energies, and is widely 
acquainted, not only in a business way, but also socially, being a 
member of a number of organizations. He belongs to the Sons of Veterans, 
the Knights of the Golden Eagle, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and, 
in business, to the Liquor Dealers Association. Politically he is a 
Republican.
	On April 5, 1896, Mr. Barto married Carrie L. Evans, daughter of 
Thomas and Anna (Croft) Evans, late of Milton. Her father was a native 
of Wales.  No children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Barto.

	SAMUEL H. WEISER, of East Chillisquaque township, has lived on his 
farm near Pottsgrove since 1906 and has been a resident of this section 
of Northumberland county from boyhood. He was born Aug. 29, 1871, at 
Buffalo Cross Roads, Union Co., Pa., son of Joshua Weiser and grandson 
of George W. Weiser, and belongs to the numerous posterity of the 
celebrated Conrad Weiser, well represented in this region.
	George W. Weiser lived at Red Bank, near Mifflinburg, in Union 
county, Pa., and is buried there. He had a brother Joshua, but further 
than that we have nothing to show his line of descent from Conrad 
Weiser.  On Dec. 26, 1841, George W. Weiser married Susanna Boller, and 
their children were born as follows  George W., May 9, 1842; Joshua, 
Nov. 18, 1844; Hannah C., Dec. 21, 1845; Henry, Sept. 18, 1847 (he 
married Jane Oberdorf and they had two children, Amos and Gertrude, the 
former now deceased; they reside at Mifflinburg, Union Co., Pa.); John, 
May 17, 1849; Abraham, Dec. 19, 1850; Benjamin F., April 19, 1853; Anna 
Maria, Sept. 21, 1855.
	Joshua Weiser, son of George W., was born Nov. 18, 1844, in Center 
county, Pa., was engaged at day labor throughout his life, and died in 
May, 1904; he is buried at Buffalo Cross Roads, Union county. He married 
Susan Campbell, who died in 1900 and is buried at Buffalo Cross Roads. 
They were the parents of children as follows Abraham, Elmer, Samuel H., 
Sarah, Jennie, George, Mazie (Mrs. F. A. Raback), Elizabeth and Cyrus 
(died in infancy).
	Samuel H. Weiser attended public school in Kelly township, Union 
county, and after coming to Chillisquaque township, Northumberland 
county, was a student at Pottsgrove Academy. He has always followed 
farming. For eight years he did farm work for John W. Frederick, of 
Chillisquaque township, and then followed farming on his own account for 
eight years, on the W. A. Montgomery farm, after which he was on the 
William H. Koch farm before coming to his present place, in 1906. He has 
a fine farm stock, and his 
	
	END OF PAGE 452
	
property is in excellent condition, showing intelligent and thrifty 
management.  His equipment is as good as that of any farmer in this 
section. Mr. Weiser has been active in local matters, has served as 
inspector of elections, and is a prominent member of the Pottsgrove 
Presbyterian church, of which he has been a trustee for the past ten 
years. Politically he is a Democrat.
	Mr. Weiser married Annie Mack, daughter of William and Catharine 
(Frederick) Mack, and they have had one son, George M., who died Oct. 
29, 1909.
	Most of the Weisers in Northumberland county are descended from the 
celebrated Conrad Weiser, patriot, statesman, philosopher, maker of 
treaties and Indian interpreter, who in the latter capacity especially - 
he was official interpreter from 1732 until his death - was intimately 
connected with the making of history in Pennsylvania in his day. A 
friend of the Indian, one found equally worthy of confidence by his own 
race, with the necessary knowledge and qualities of leadership required 
to sustain the influence he gained by success in his transactions 
between the two races, he was one of the comparatively few men of his 
time familiar enough with the Indian character, languages and customs to 
carry on negotiations intelligently and efficiently, and at the same 
time possessing a reputation which made him the trusted agent of both 
the red and the white men. His work has a peculiar value in the early 
settlement and development of this region.
	Conrad Weiser was born Nov. 2, 1696, at Afstsedt, a small village 
in the county of Herrenberg, Wurtemberg, Germany, son of John Conrad 
Weiser, a local magistrate. In his native home he acquired a general 
education, which included the principles of the Christian religion 
according to the teachings of Martin Luther. In his fourteenth year he 
emigrated to America with his father and family, which included seven 
children besides himself, landing at New York June 17, 1710. At that 
time several thousand Germans were sent to America by Queen Anne.  
Shortly after their arrival they were removed by the governor of New 
York to Livingston Manor, to burn tar and cultivate hemp to defray the 
expenses incurred by Queen Anne in conveying them from Holland to 
England and from England to America. John Conrad Weiser was at the head 
of this colony, of four thousand Palatinates.  Under the direction of 
commissioners they labored in the employment mentioned until 1713.  
Then, finding that they were existing under a form of bondage, they 
protested against the treatment and this effected their release.  About 
150 families of them, including the Weisers, removed to Schoharie, forty 
miles west of Albany. Their immediate neighbors were the Mohawk Indians, 
with whom the elder Weiser was frequently in communication. A chief of 
the tribe who took a liking to Conrad proposed that the boy visit the 
Mohawk country and learn the language, and accordingly, when in his 
eighteenth year, he went to live with the Indians, spending eight months 
at a Mohawk town eight miles south of Schoharie. In this period he 
acquired a thorough knowledge of the language and customs and was 
adopted as a member of the tribe.  Though strong, he suffered from 
exposure and hardship during this experience, having scarcely clothing 
sufficient to cover his body during the trying winter, and he was 
frequently threatened with death when the Indians were in a state of 
intoxication. Returning to his father's home at Schoharie in July, 1714, 
he lived until 1729 within two miles of the town referred to, engaging 
in farming and continuing to increase the Indian knowledge he had gained 
by acting as interpreter between the German settlers and the Mohawks. In 
the spring of 1723 many of the Palatinates, including Conrad Weiser's 
father, moved from the region because of litigation which affected the 
titles to their lands, and settled in the Tulpehocken, in Berks county, 
Pa., and Conrad Weiser followed them thither in 1729, locating near 
Womelsdorf.  He was soon after engaged as interpreter by the Provincial 
government, his first services in this capacity being performed in 1731. 
From that time for nearly thirty years he was almost constantly engaged 
in this important work, and previous to 1760 he was the most prominent 
historical character in Berks county. He was the principal judge of the 
county from 1752 to 1760. Besides acting as interpreter at the various 
treaty  meetings, he was intrusted with important missions to the great 
council at Onondaga and to the Ohio tribes, and throughout his long 
career as agent and interpreter continued to enjoy the full confidence 
of both Indians and English.
	He was very active in the first proceedings for the erection of 
Berks county, in 1738, and continued his influence until the county was 
established, in 1752. He acted as one of the first commissioners in the 
sale of town lots at Reading, which was laid out by the Penns in 1748, 
and was prominently identified with the early movements for the building 
up of the town and in the development of its business interests.  In 
1741 he was appointed justice of the peace, which office he filled for a 
number of years; and when the county was erected he was appointed one of 
its first judges, acting as president judge of the courts until his 
decease, in 1760. Two of his descendants, both named George Weiser, 
served as associate judges in Northumberland county.
	Weiser was one of the most prominent men in the French and Indian 
war, in which he served as a colonel, and his services were of great 
value 
	
	END OF PAGE 453
	
to the government and to the people of Berks county. His numerous 
letters indicate his zeal, courage and patriotism.
	During the latter part of his life he lived mostly at Reading, but 
he died on his Heidelberg farm July 13, 1760, and his remains rest in a 
private burying ground on the place, near the borough of Womelsdorf. On 
Oct. 30, 1907, a tablet was placed in the west wall of the Stichter 
hardware store on Penn Square, Reading, by the Historical Society of 
Berks county, to commemorate the site of the Weiser building, which he 
erected at that point in 1751 and where he often met the Indians in 
conference. He accumulated a large estate, consisting of properties at 
Reading and lands in Heidelberg township and in the region of country 
beyond the Blue Mountains.
	In 1720 Conrad Weiser married a young woman of Schoharie, and he 
was the father of fifteen children, eight of whom seem to have died in 
the years of their minority. His wife and seven children survived him 
Philip, Frederick, Samuel, Benjamin, Peter, Alma Maria (who married Rev. 
Henry Melchior Muhlenberg) and Margaret (Mrs. Finker). So many 
generations have elapsed since their day, and the posterity has become 
so numerous, that it would be a laborious and difficult, if not 
impossible, task to compile a complete record.
	Frederick Weiser, fourth child and third son of Conrad Weiser, was 
born Dec. 24, 1728, at Schoharie, N.Y., and was baptized by John 
Bernhart von Duehren, a Lutheran clergyman, his sponsors being Nicklas 
Feg and wife. He settled in Berks county in the territory now embraced 
in Schuylkill county, and is buried at the Klingers Church, near 
Klingerstown, in the western part of Schuylkill county. It appears that 
at the time of his death, however, in 1796, he was a resident of 
Heidelberg township, Berks county. He and his family were Lutherans. One 
of the foremost men of his day. In his section, he served as "squire" 
for a quarter of a century, and was a man of dignified bearing and 
rugged honesty, true to the noble teachings of his pious parents. He 
became possessed of considerable wealth, being one of the most 
substantial men of  his generation. He was a farmer and large land owner 
in the Mahantango Valley.  His will is on record in the Berks county 
courthouse.  On March 10, 1798, the Orphans' court of Berks county 
appointed Richard Lea, Joseph Hiester and William Green auditors of his 
vast estate, which they found amounted to 6,052 pounds, 11 shillings, 6 
pence.  Daniel Levan, of Maxatawny township, was one of the executors of 
Frederick Weiser. In release as executor of the estate of his father, 
Frederick Weiser, Conrad Weiser in 1797 was given clear title by his 
four sisters (three of whom were married to Kehls - the latters' 
relations not known). By the death of Frederick Weiser his executors 
became involved in a lawsuit with Daniel Womelsdorf over a mill property 
at Womelsdorf, in Berks county, bought in 1774, and sold in 1788. A 
large sum of money was involved, and the case was bitterly fought by the 
ablest legal talent in Berks county, the suit resulting in a verdict for 
Daniel Womelsdorf for 588 pounds, 14 shillings, 17 1/2 pence. A balance 
of 5,219 pounds, 12 shillings, 8 pence was distributed among Frederick 
Weiser's heirs. His children were: Conrad, John, Peter, Eve Collins (who 
was a widow in 1797), Catharine (wife of Jacob Kehl), Hannah wife of 
George Kehl) and Sarah (wife of John Kehl).
	Conrad Weiser, son of Frederick, was born April 16, 1753, and on 
Nov. 12, 1775, was married to Elizabeth Klinger, daughter of Philip. He 
died Sept. 19, 1804, and is buried at Klinger's Church. They had 
children as follows: Frederick, Jacob, Philip; Hannah, Mrs. George 
Hepner, Catharine, Elizabeth and Sarah.
	Philip Weiser, grandson of Conrad, was born in Schuylkill county, 
Pa., May 13, 1787, and died Nov. 16, 1863. He is buried at the Plum 
Creek Church, in what is now Rockefeller township, Northumberland 
county. He donated the land upon which that church is built, and which 
was in the heart of his possessions in that section, several hundred 
acres of fine land. His farm contained the best land in the township. He 
erected the set of buildings still used on that property, and they are 
typical of the substantial structures put up by the descendants of 
Conrad Weiser wherever they have settled. He himself did much of the 
work on these buildings, and he was an industrious man in all his 
undertakings. A stanch Lutheran; he was a pillar of the Plum Creek 
Church and its foremost member, being an elder at the time of his death. 
A monument marks his last resting place there. He was a tall man, well 
proportioned, raw-boned and muscular though weighing about two hundred 
pounds, dignified an his hearing, possessed a resolute will and held 
strong convictions of right and wrong, was educated and intelligent, and 
applied his energies to such good purpose that he became the most 
substantial man in his section.  His homestead is now owned by John 
Philips. He was a Democrat of the Jeffersonian type and served as 
commissioner of Northumberland county. His wife Catharine, daughter of 
George Malick, was born Aug. 24, 1788, and died May 31, 1852. They had 
children as follows: George; Catharine, who married Henry Fasold; 
Solomon; Elizabeth, who married George Pieffer; Margaret, born Aug. 9, 
1815, who married in 1844 John Snyder and died March 19, 1856; Sarah, 
born July 31, 1817, who married John C. Evert and died Dec. 7, 1893.
	George Weiser, eldest son of Philip, was born on his father's 
homestead, as were all his brothers and sisters, and there spent his 
youth. He married Margaret Malick, who lived only two miles from 
	
	END OF PAGE 454
	
where he was reared, daughter of Peter Malick, of Lower Augusta 
township, and after his marriage moved six miles west of his father's 
home, in the same township, settling on one of his father's fine farms.  
This place, now comprising three hundred acres, is owned by Peter 
Weiser, son of George - of the fifth or sixth generation from Conrad 
Weiser. This farm is considered one of the very best tracts in Lower 
Augusta township. There are many historical associations about the 
place. A log house formerly stood there which was one of the earliest  
buildings in the section, was used as a fort or retreat from the 
Indians, and was conducted as a private hotel, many travelers resting 
there and finding safety as well as shelter under its roof. During the 
French and Indian war, 1753-1763, it frequently afforded protection from 
Indian attacks, the cellar with its strong wall being a safe place of 
refuge during the savage onslaughts. In 1857 this landmark was razed by 
George Weiser, who erected the same year the spacious brick residence 
now the home of his son and granddaughters. It is 40 by 36 feet in 
dimensions, with an addition 15 feet square erected since, two and a 
half stories high and surrounded with commodious porches. George Weiser 
was one of the substantial men of his section and one of its foremost 
citizens, but though a leader of public thought and progress he 
steadfastly refused to hold any office except that of school director, 
though he might have received many honors at the hands of his fellow 
citizens. He was a strong advocate of the cause of public education, was 
prominent in local church and social circles, and in every respect a 
worthy representative of a noble race. Through his influence the New 
Lutheran Church was erected in the neighborhood and he was virtually its 
pillar, paying the bills as they came in and helping the work along in 
many ways. He was of muscular build, five feet six inches in height and 
ordinarily weighing 160 pounds, all bone and muscle. Politically he was 
a Democrat in religion, as intimated, a Lutheran, and he is buried at 
the New Lutheran Church, known as St. Peter's, in Lower Augusta 
township. His wife Margaret born Oct. 2, 1818, died Oct. 30, 1858, and 
she is buried at Mount Zion United Brethren Church (known also as 
Malick's Church) in Lower Augusta township; she was a member of that 
denomination.  George Weiser's children were as follows: Sarah Jane 
married Augustus Rebuck; Mary Catharine married Carey Batillion; Peter 
is mentioned below; Jemima is the widow of Charles Fritz, the foremost 
citizen of Trevorton for many years, who died there in the spring of 
1910, aged eighty-five years; and Margaret Alice, born in 1858, died in 
1871.
	PETER WEISER, son of George, was born Oct. 27, 1853, at the place 
where he now lives.  He was reared under the parental roof and obtained 
his early education in the township schools, later attending Missionary 
institute (now Susquehanna College) at Selinsgrove and normal school at 
Elysburg. When nineteen years old he was licensed to teach by Prof. 
Samuel Shipman, then county superintendent, and for six terms was 
engaged as teacher in the local schools.  But when his father died his 
plans were changed, his sisters requesting him, as the only son, to take 
charge of the farm, which they wished to keep in the family name, and he 
accordingly settled down to agricultural pursuits, which he has since 
followed. The property is a large and valuable one, an ideal modern 
farm, with model barns, the most up-to-date and trimly kept in the 
section, and though much care and time have been bestowed upon 
appearances the business has not been allowed to suffer in any way, the 
land being fertile and under profitable cultivation. Mr. Weiser suffered 
a heavy financial blow in 1891, when his barn and sheds were totally 
destroyed by fire on Sunday morning, Sept. 1st; the big barn was filled 
with the year's crops. 
	Mr. Weiser is a Democrat and prominently identified with the 
activities of the party in this county, but he has never been an 
aspirant for public honors, the only office which he would consent to 
accept being that of school director, which he has filled for twelve 
years.
	On Dec. 25, 1880, Mr. Weiser married Emma J. Riland, daughter of 
James and Maria (Wolverton) Riland  of Upper Augusta township.  She died 
Jan. 3, 1894, aged thirty-seven years, ten months, seventeen days, and 
is buried at St. Peter's New Lutheran Church.  Three children were born 
to this union: Cottie May, Anna Laura and Emma Blanche.  The two first 
named graduated from the State normal school at Bloomsburg in 1903 and 
are now engaged in teaching in Northumberland county. Emma Blanche, who 
is at home, took a commercial course at Susquehanna University. Mr. 
Weiser and his family are members of St. Peter's Lutheran Church, which 
he has served as deacon, elder and trustee.

	SAMUEL F. PHILLIPS, senior member of the firm of Phillips & Son, 
proprietors of the City Roller Mills, manufacturing high grade flour and 
dealing in feed, grain, hay, etc., at Milton, Pa., is one of the truly 
self-made men of that place, and he has won a place among the 
substantial citizens of the county.  He was born at Turbutville, Pa., 
Oct. 3, 1869, son of Samuel Phillips, and grand-son of Adam Phillips.
	Adam Phillips, the grandfather, was born Nov. 1, 1810, and died 
June 30, 1848.  He early left his native county of Berks and came to 
Northumberland county by team, settling at Turbutville, where he 
followed farming.  He married Mary Whitman, of Berks county, born Aug. 
25, 1810, died April 28, 1899. Both are buried in the cemetery at 
Turbutville.  Their children were:  Sam-
	
	END OF PAGE 455
	
uel; John, who married Elizabeth Leiser; Israel, who married Susan 
Weidel; Daniel, who married Rachel Derr; Henry, who married Mary 
Strauss; Maria, who married David Fink; and Emma, who married George 
Westley.
	Samuel Phillips, son of Adam and father of Samuel F., was born Dec. 
16, 1830, and died Oct. 11, 1869. His wife Abbie died March 25, 1872.
	Samuel F. Phillips had his own way to make in the world from early 
childhood, as he was but a few days old when his father died and but two 
when his mother, too, passed away. He was reared by his uncle William 
Strieby, of Lycoming county, above Williamsport, and there he remained 
until he was sixteen years old.  He then went to Williamsport, and 
learned the milling business with the Noble Milling Company, where he 
worked for nine years, or until they sold out to J. H. Hays & Co. He 
continued three years with the successors, and then leased the Eagle 
mill in White Deer Valley, Lycoming county, which he operated for seven 
and a half years.  He sold out and went to Blank & Gottshall, millers at 
Sunbury, with whom he continued for one year. In January, 1907, he came 
to Milton, and in partnership with Charles H. Witmer, under the firm 
name of Phillips & Witmer, leased the old City Roller Mill, one of the 
oldest mills in this part of the State.  Mr. Witmer withdrew from the 
firm in April, 1910, and George B., son of S. F. Phillips, became his 
father's partner. They replaced the machinery with new and modern build, 
and have done a thriving business, both merchant and exchange.
	Mr. Phillips married Clara Stahlnecker, daughter of Benjamin 
Stahlnecker, and they have one son living, George B., member of the firm 
of S. F. Phillips & Son. Mr. Phillips is a member of Watsontown Lodge, 
No. 401, F. & A.M.

	FREDERICK SCHELL, late of West Chillisquaque township, a prosperous 
farmer who also gained considerable reputation as an inventor, was a 
prominent citizen of his section, where he passed all his life. He was 
born April 7, 1856, son of John Schell and grandson of Frederick Schell.
	Frederick Schell, the grandfather, born in Germany in 1782, came to 
America with his family, the voyage, which was made on a sailing vessel, 
taking sixteen weeks. They settled in Northumberland county, Pa., where 
he took up land, having holdings in different parts of the county, among 
them the farm owned by his grandson, the late Frederick Schell. The 
tract as he owned it, however, comprised 135 acres. At that time there 
was an old log house on the farm, wherein he and his family lived. Late 
in life Frederick Schell removed to that part of Turbut township, this 
county, now included in the borough of Milton, and there he died in 
1867. His wife, Catharine, born in Germany in 1779, died at Milton in 
1865, and they are buried in Harmony cemetery at Milton. They had 
children as follows: Catherine married Philip Derr; John is mentioned 
later; Margaret died at the age of 103 years, unmarried; Matilda married 
John C. Trinnel; Michael was killed during the construction of the 
Pennsylvania railroad through this district.
	John Schell, son of Frederick and Catharine Schell, was born in 
Germany Oct. 29, 1819, and died Aug. 27, 1876, upon the farm where his 
son Frederick afterward lived.  Coming to America with his parents, he 
farmed with his father until he was twenty-seven years old, when the 
father gave him his 105-acre farm, to which he added twenty-six acres by 
purchase.  He lived on this property until his death, improving it 
greatly, built a fine house and barn, and was a prosperous farmer and 
one of the most respected citizens of his neighborhood.  His wife, 
Catharine (Derr), born in 1828, died in 1893, aged sixty-five years, 
nine months, twenty-two days. They were the parents of the following 
children: (1) Mary married William Smith, and her children were 
Catharine, Carrie, John, Cleveland and Martin. (2) Frederick is 
mentioned below. (3) Catharine married Peter Bellas and has a son 
George, who is now in California. (4) Sarah died young. (5) John died 
when twenty-eight years old. (6) Lizzie A., born March 26, 1868, died 
July 8, 1907. (7) Louisa married Albert Snyder, and they have had 
children, May, Eva (deceased), Fred, Jacob and Velma. (8) Ida died when 
sixteen years old.  (9) Charles married Laura Wagner, and they had three 
children, Pearl (married to William Osmer), Flora and Andrew C. (who 
after his mother's death was reared by his uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. 
Frederick Schell).  For his second wife Charles Schell married Anna 
Yarnison, and they have had three children, Robert, George and Ralph, 
the last named deceased.
	Frederick Schell obtained his education in the public schools and 
continued to work for his father until the latter's death. He then 
farmed the old place three years for his mother, and in 1883 bought out 
the interests of his brothers and sisters in the property, which 
afterward belonged to him. It is one of the finest farm places in the 
valley, consisting at present of about 125 acres, under profitable 
cultivation.  Mr. Schell's farming operations were conducted in the most 
intelligent manner approved by modern agriculturists, his excellent work 
and good results entitling him to a place among the leading farmers of 
his section. He was the inventor of an agricultural implement known as 
Schell's subsoiler, a plow attachment of obvious value simple in 
construction, convenient to use, and also possessing labor-saving 
qualities which recommend it to the modern farmer.
	On June 12, 1878, Mr. Schell married Hannah L. McWilliams, daughter 
of Cruser McWilliams, 
	
	END OF PAGE 456
	
and they have four children:  Harry C. married Emma Fetter and has two 
sons, Frederick and Harry C.; Susan B. attended school at Bloom and 
taught three terms in Montour county, and she also taught three terms in 
her native county, teaching the local school, in East Chillisquaque 
township, until her marriage, April 18, 1911, to Clyde M. Taylor; 
Catharine E. attended the Pottsgrove Academy and Kelly's Business 
College, at Lewisburg, and is now at home; John F. married Lizzie 
Springer, and they are now living at Pottsgrove. The family are 
Lutherans in religious faith. Mr. Schell was a Democrat and served his 
township three years in the capacity of school director. He died Dec. 
27, 1909.
	John McWilliams, grandfather of Mrs. Schell, married a Miss Cruser.  
He was of Scotch-Irish extraction. Cruser McWilliams, son of John, 
married Susanna Rissel, daughter of Jacob S. and Elizabeth (Diehl) 
Rissel, and they were highly respected farming people of their 
community. They had children as follows: John W., of Whitehall, Pa.; 
Elizabeth A., Mrs. Jonathan Foust; Jacob R., who died when four years 
old; Hannah L., widow of Frederick Schell; Michael R., an extensive 
farmer of Nebraska, owning over six hundred acres of land; Mary A., who 
married Benton Runyeon, and died at Jersey Shore, leaving one son, 
Raymond; William D., secretary of the Milton Trust & Safe Deposit 
Company, of Milton, who lives in Milton; Martha E., deceased, who 
married George Hunty; and Jennie, who is married to John Montgomery and 
resides at Pottsgrove.

	H. BRYSON MONTGOMERY, who holds an important place in the business 
world of Milton, Pa., as the owner of one of the largest sand beds in 
Northumberland county, comes of substantial Scotch-Irish ancestry.
	James Montgomery, his grandfather, was a native of the North of 
Ireland, and became a sea captain.  After some years spent in that 
calling he came to America, about 1760, and became the owner of a tract 
of land in Montour county, Pa., along the Chillisquaque creek. He was an 
energetic man, active in work for the improvement of his county, and he 
became one of the founders of the Chillisquaque Presbyterian Church.  He 
was first married to a Miss Sheddon, and second to a Mrs. Burns (born 
Harvey).
	Hugh R. Montgomery, son of James, was born in Montour county in 
1819. He was a farmer by occupation, and became prominent in public 
life, working faithfully with the Democratic party. For nearly thirty 
years he held the office of justice of the peace, and he was also 
overseer of the poor. In religions belief he was a Presbyterian. He died 
in 1881, survived by his wife, Sarah S. Moll, daughter of Daniel F. and 
Mary (Seidel) Moll. Nine children were born to them, as follows: James 
R., a physician at Buckhorn, Pa.; John S., a merchant at Pottsgrove; 
Mary E., who married Charles N. Marsh, of Milton; Sarah A., who married 
William Eckman, a farmer in Chillisquaque township, Northumberland 
county; Daniel M., a merchant at Pottsgrove; William A., a farmer, the 
owner of the old homestead; H. Bryson; Clara B.; and Alice Jane, who 
married Rev. William B. Sheddon.
	H. Bryson Montgomery, son of Hugh R., was born Aug. 27, 1868, in 
Liberty township, Montour Co., Pa. He received a good common school 
education, and in his young manhood became interested in photography, a 
line he followed for some years in Milton. Naturally artistic, he soon 
gained a wide reputation for good work, but some time after his marriage 
he and his father-in-law - in 1903 - purchased the island located 
between Milton and West Milton from Ex-Sheriff John Noirconk.  This 
island contains about seventy acres, fifty of which are under 
cultivation. In 1906 Mr. Montgomery bought out his father-in-law's 
interest, and has since developed the sand bank, shipping from 250 to 
300 carloads of sand a year. He has sold out his photographic studio, 
Mr. Swanger becoming his successor, and now devotes all of his time to 
his sand business.  Mr. Montgomery still owns the property in which the 
studio is located, and he has other real estate interests. He is very 
prominent in local affairs, a man of good judgment and of fine executive 
ability.
	On March 20, 1895, Mr. Montgomery was united in marriage with Sarah 
A. Billmeyer, daughter of Henry and Hannah Flora Billmeyer.  They have 
no children.

	KOCH. There were a number of Kochs in Chillisquaque township and 
that section of Northumberland county descended from the brothers Adam 
and Daniel Koch, the latter of whom came hither from Northampton county 
in the early days. John Koch, the first of this family in America, came 
to Northampton county in 1773, settling near Easton.
	Adam Koch, grandfather of William H. Koch (a retired farmer of 
Chillisquaque township now living at Pottsgrove), lived at Petersville, 
Northampton county, and followed farming for some years.  He was an 
intelligent man, well read for the times, and served for a long time as 
a justice of the peace. He had three brothers, John, Daniel and Rev. 
Henry.  Adam Koch married Elizabeth Strauss, a native of Northampton 
county, who survived him some years, his death occurring in 1870. They 
were the parents of the following children: Christian, Mrs. Hoffman;  
Mary Ann, Mrs. Selfreez; Susan, Mrs. Noll; Elizabeth, Mrs. D. Rice; 
Jonas; and Reuben, William, Henry and Jacob, all of whom lived in 
Northampton county.
	Jonas Koch, son of Adam, was born Dec. 26, 1807, in Northampton 
county, and was baptized 
	
	END OF PAGE 457
	
March 6, 1808, his godparents being John and Catherine Koch. When a 
young man, while still residing in Northampton county, he drove a four-
horse stagecoach, carrying mail and passengers between the towns of 
Bath, Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Siegfried. This was before there were any 
railroads in this section. Coming to Northumberland county in 1836 he 
went to farming in Chillisquaque township, where he remained six years. 
Moving thence to Lewis township, same county, he lived in Fort Rice, 
where his son William was born. He remained there seven years. In 1850 
he moved onto the Giffee farm, where he lived one year, and in 1851 
purchased the farm in Chillisquaque township upon which he spent the 
remainder of his days. In 1856 he built the house, in 1857 the barn, and 
in 1858 the large shed. The buildings have since been enlarged by his 
son William, the present owner of the property. Mr. Koch was a 
progressive man, a leader in his community, served as school director 
for a number of years, and filled other township offices. He was a 
consistent member of the Reformed Church. His wife, Leah (Bachman), 
daughter of John F. and Catherine (Cole) Bachman, was born Aug. 23, 
1814, and died Feb. 16, 1899. The Bachmans were natives of Northampton 
county, Pa., where the ancestor of the family settled about 1773. John 
F. Bachman was born Nov. 3, 1783, and died in January, 1845; his wife 
Catherine (Cole) was born Feb. 29, 1788, and died July 16, 1852. They 
came with their family to Chillisquaque township, Northumberland county, 
in 1836. To Mr. and Mrs. Jonas Koch were born three children: Mary Ann, 
who married C. M. Rissel and had a son Jonas; Elizabeth, who married J. 
H. Cawley; and William H.
	WILLIAM H. KOCH was born July 28, 1845, in Chillisquaque township, 
and spent his early life on his father's farm. His early education was 
acquired in the public schools of his native township, and he later 
attended the Milton high school, Limestoneville Academy (under the 
tuition of Rev. Mr. Court) and the Milton Academy (under Rev. Mr. 
Wyley). When seventeen years of age he began teaching school in his 
native township, following the profession for eleven years there, after 
which he taught one term, in Montour county, at the Mexico school in 
Liberty township. During the remainder of his active years he was 
engaged in farming. Upon the death of his father he purchased the old 
homestead, which contains 135 acres. In 1894 he purchased the William 
Waldron farm, in Turbut township, a tract of 135 acres. In 1904 he 
bought the home at Pottsgrove which he now occupies. In 1906 he 
relinquished the laborious work of farming because of ill health, which 
has left him somewhat an invalid, but notwithstanding this he retains 
his cheerful disposition and takes an  undiminished interest in local 
affairs and general public doings. As a farmer he was wide-awake and 
enterprising, in his agricultural work as in other matters being a 
recognized leader in his district. Mr. Koch has served his township six 
years as school director and was auditor for a number of years. He has 
been offered other offices, but declined. For sixteen years he was an 
elder of the Reformed Church at Milton, and he is a most esteemed 
citizen, enjoying the respect of all who knew him.
	Mr. Koch married Mary L. Everitt, daughter of Asa and Susan (Adams) 
Everitt, and their union has been blessed with three sons: Jonas, who 
married Mary Frederick; and William A. C. and Franklin, who are at home.
	Daniel Koch, one of the brothers of Adam Koch, above, was born in 
Northampton county, Pa. When a young man he came to Chillisquaque 
township, Northumberland county, following farming there until his 
removal to Milton, where he died; he is buried in the Upper cemetery. 
Mr. Koch married Christana Bachman, and they were the parents of the 
following children: Joseph went out West, where he died; Rachel married 
Samuel Reichelderfer; Kate married William Ritter; Charles is mentioned 
below; Samuel died at Washingtonville, Pa.; Levi moved to the West and 
died in Iowa; Priscilla died at Muncy, Pa., and is buried at Milton; 
Anna married Anthony Hipp.
	Charles Koch was born in Northampton county, Pa., and was a boy 
when his parents moved to Northumberland county, making the journey with 
Conestoga wagons.  He resided upon the home farm until he became of age, 
when he learned the carpenter's trade, continuing to follow it for some 
years. Later he began contracting and building, in Milton, Pa., and was 
thus engaged, up to the time of his death. Mr. Koch built many houses 
still standing in Milton and the surrounding towns. He did a large 
business and employed a number of men. In politics he was a Democrat and 
became overseer of the poor while he lived in Turbut township, and when 
his home was transferred to the borough he was elected overseer of the 
poor there. He died June 18, 1889, in the sixty-eighth year of his age, 
as the result of exposure during the great flood of that month. His 
wife, Sarah (Hill), was a daughter of John K. and Catherine (Beck) Hill, 
the latter a daughter of Henry Beck. Mr. and Mrs. Beck were among the 
earliest settlers in Union county, Pa., and they are buried at 
Lewisburg.  He was a grandson of Johannes Thomas Beck, who came to 
America in 1752, and a son of Henry Beck, born in 1748 in the old 
countship of Hanau, who was married in 1775 in Berks county, Pa., to 
Margaret Wolfegang, and died in 1824; they are buried in the old 
cemetery at Milton, Pa. John K. Hill was one of a family of four 
children: Elizabeth (Betsy), Mrs. Boshan; Katie, Mrs. Werline; John K., 
and Daniel. John K. 
	
	END OF PAGE 458
	
and Catherine (Beck) Hill had the following family: Mary, who married 
Peter Wenrich; Eliza, who married Henry Wesner; Rebecca, who died 
unmarried; Sarah, born May 10, 1828, Mrs. Charles Koch, now the only 
survivor of the family; Henry; Elijah, and Daniel.
	To Mr. and Mrs. Charles Koch were born the following children: (1) 
Samuel H. lives in Milton. (2) Mary A., who died in October, 1904, was 
the wife of Henry A. Moll.  (3) Anna C. married Meyers Brautigam, and 
they are the parents of Harry, Charles, Margaret, Elizabeth and Ruth. 
(4) Edward died young.
	SAMUEL H. KOCH, son of Charles, was born March 12, 1848, in 
Chillisquaque township, and was educated in the public schools and in 
the select school taught by Professor Rhoad, later attending the academy 
at Milton.  Then he taught school, in 1868.  While a young man he 
learned the carpenter's trade with his father, with whom he began to 
work in 1869, at the trade, being associated with him up to the time of 
his retirement, when he began contracting and building for himself. He 
has been notably successful, having built up a business which entitles 
him to rank among the substantial men of the borough.
	In 1871 Mr. Koch married Susan E. Strine, daughter of Henry and 
Eleanor Strine, and granddaughter of Matthias and Catherine (Welchans) 
Strine.  Henry Strine died Dec. 30, 1892, aged eighty-two years, six 
months, eighteen days; his wife Eleanor died April 2, 1872, aged fifty-
six years. Matthias Strine died Dec. 30, 1861, aged eighty-five years, 
seven months, eight days; his wife Catherine (Welchans) died Feb. 23, 
1860, aged seventy-seven years, eight months, fifteen days. Mrs. Koch 
died April 15, 1903, the mother of one child, William A., who died Jan. 
12, 1903; he had married Anna Boyle, and they were the parents of one 
daughter, Miriam Eleanor.  Mr. Koch resides with his daughter-in-law and 
grandchild at No. 309 Hepburn street Milton.  Socially he is a member of 
the Royal Arcanum.  In political faith he adheres to the principles of 
Democracy, but he may be classed as an independent voter.

	JAMES H. BEST, a prosperous farmer and truck raiser of 
Chillisquaque township, Northumberland county, is a grandson of one of 
the pioneers of that township and himself one of its intelligent and 
respected citizens. His son, Samuel D. Best, is established in business 
in the borough of Sunbury as a dealer in general merchandise.
	John Best, the first of this family of whom we have record, was 
born June 15, 1759, in New Jersey, probably in Hunterdon county, and was 
likely of Scotch descent.  He had brothers James, William, Cornelius and 
Michael, and a half-brother, Daniel. On Nov. 2, 1784, he married Mary 
Haas, who was born May 10, 1767, in Germany, and it seems reasonable, 
though it is by no means certain, that both she and her husband were of 
foreign parentage. However, the emigration in either case or both may 
have taken place in an earlier generation. John and Mary (Haas) Best had 
children as follows:  Mary, born June 6, 1788 (Mrs. Rush); John, April 
3, 1791; James, April 23, 1794; Peter, May 13, 1797; William, March 27, 
1800; Eleanor, Dec. 7, 1802 (Mrs. Bond); Jacob, April 11, 1804.  This 
family gradually scattered, some settling in New York, others in Ohio, 
northern Indiana and southern Michigan. The parents both died in 
Pennsylvania, Mrs. Best April 24, 1822, Mr. Best in April, 1839. They 
are buried in the graveyard in Chillisquaque, Northumberland county.
	James Best son of John, born April 23, 1794, in Hunterdon county, 
N.J., was a pioneer in Chillisquaque township, this county, where he 
settled in 1812 on a large farm now owned by one J. H. Work.  He was a 
lifelong farmer. He died Sept. 17, 1847, and was first buried at 
Williamsport, his son John later interring his remains in Harmony 
cemetery at Milton, this county, where the Bests have a family plot.  He 
was an Episcopalian in religious connection.  His wife, Sarah (Kevitt), 
born June 26, 1790, was also a member of a New Jersey family, her 
father, Henry Kevitt having been born there Feb. 27, 1767; her mother, 
Catharine, was born Dec. 24, 1770.  To James and Sarah (Kevitt) Best 
were born six children, as follows:  Catharine Ann, born Oct. 10, 1817; 
John, Sept. 11, 1819; Mary E., Oct. 29, 1821; Henry K., Jan. 24, 1824; 
Jacob H., Oct. 8, 1826; Sarah Jane, Dec. 20, 1829 (who died in January, 
1905, at the home of her nephew, James H. Best, in Chillisquaque 
township).  After the father's death the mother of this family purchased 
a farm of seventy-six acres in Chillisquaque township, which her son 
John conducted for her from 1851 until 1860. In 1855 she sold some of 
her land to the Sunbury & Erie Railway Company (now the Philadelphia & 
Erie Railway Company) for $525. She died in 1868, and is buried in the 
family plot in Harmony cemetery, at Milton.
	John Best son of James, born Sept. 11, 1819, at Riverside, 
Northumberland Co., Pa., moved thence with his parents to Lycoming 
county, this State, where the family settled on what was known as the 
Judge Grier farm.  He received his early education in the common schools 
of that neighborhood and later attended a higher institution of learning 
at Williamsport, from which he was graduated. He acquired a very 
thorough literary training for that day.  From early life he had been 
familiar with farm work, and he was thus engaged in Lycoming county 
until he came with his mother to Chillisquaque township, Northumberland 
county, in 1851, from which time until 1860 he cultivated the farm 
	
	END OF PAGE 459
	
of seventy-six acres which she owned. He then removed to the Heburn 
property at Milton (now all embraced within the limits of that borough) 
and there lived until 1863, for the next eight years living upon a farm 
in Point township, the place now owned by William Martz. In 1872 he 
removed thence to Paradise valley, in Turbut township, where he died 
June 6, 1874. Mr. Best was a member of the school board in Point 
township, and served as treasurer of that body. He was a Democrat in 
politics.
	On Feb. 2, 1854, Mr. Best married Caroline Hilgert, who was born 
May 25, 1829, daughter of Peter Hilgert and sister of the late Philip 
Hilgert, of Williamsport. The Hilgert family hold annual reunions, and 
in 1910 met at Milton. Mrs. Best died Jan. 20, 1896, and she and her 
husband rest side by side in the Best family plot at Milton. They were 
members of the Reformed Church. They were the parents of eight children, 
born as follows: James H. and Catharine M., twins, Dec. 8, 1855 (she 
died July 29, 1856) Mary Ellen, June 8, 1857; Martha Jane, June 9, 1859; 
John P., Dec. 8, 1860; Robert R.; Aug. 20, 1863; William W., Oct. 
13,1865; Elmer E., Nov. 21, 1867.
	JAMES H. BEST was born Dec. 8, 1855, on the farm in Chillisquaque 
township where he now lives, and received his education in the common 
schools of the home district. As his health was poor his studies were 
interrupted considerably. He was reared to farm life, which he followed 
until the spring of 1877, when he went to Texas and found work with W. 
E. Mayes, in a mill, grinding corn and ginning cotton. He was thus 
employed until August, 1882, when he left because of failing health, and 
returning to Pennsylvania he again made his home in Chillisquaque 
township, where he was engaged as an engineer in the F. A. Godcharles 
nail factory for several years. After following farming a few years he 
resumed his work as engineer in the nail factory, until April 1, 1910, 
when he returned to farming. He has the homestead which has been in the 
family since it was purchased by his grandmother, Mrs. Sarah Best, in 
1851, and upon which she built the present brick house in 1852. It 
consists of seventy-six acres situated midway between Milton and 
Montandon, and Mr. Best has the land under profitable cultivation. He is 
an intelligent and public-spirited citizen, and has served some years as 
overseer of the poor in his township. He is a Democrat in his political 
views. He and his family are Methodists in religious faith, and he is 
serving the church at present as trustee.
	On Dec. 24, 1877, Mr. Best married Mary C. DeBolt, daughter of 
Samuel W. and Caroline (Houser) DeBolt, of Lancaster county, Pa., and 
granddaughter of John and Sarah (McClauchlin) DeBolt, of Lancaster. To 
their union have been born six children, namely: Hedley, married to Mary 
E. Shuck and living in Philadelphia, where he is employed by the Shipe 
Lumber Company; Mabel C., wife of John Fetter and living in Lewisburg, 
Union Co., Pa. Martha J.; Samuel D.; Arthur N., a telegraph operator; 
and Merrill V.
	SAMUEL D. BEST, son of James H. and Mary C. (DeBolt) Best, was born 
April 29, 1887, in Chillisquaque township, and there received his 
elementary education in the public schools. Later he attended the 
Sunbury Business College and the Milton Commercial College, taking a 
course in stenography at Sunbury, and subsequently became shipping clerk 
in a wholesale establishment in that borough. In 1906 he engaged in 
business there on his own account, first settling opposite his present 
location, at the corner of Fourth and Ragan streets, where he erected 
his present store in 1908. He has a large building, well stocked, 
carrying a full line of general merchandise, and has built up a fine 
patronage by obliging service and fair dealing. His business has 
prospered from the start, and his standing among the younger business 
men of the borough has been won by enterprise and commendable methods, 
which have been well rewarded.
	On Aug. 8, 1906, Mr. Best married Bessie Blank, daughter of Daniel 
C. and Emma (Sensenbaugh) Blank; her father is now living retired in 
Sunbury. Mr. and Mrs. Best have had two children, D. Wardell and Elvira 
L. Mr. Best and his family worship at the Lutheran Church.

	WILLIAM S. CLAPP (name also spelled Klopp and Klapp), now living 
retired at Milton, Pa., is a native son of Northumberland county, whose 
years of active work have placed him in such substantial position that 
his declining days find him free from care. He was born in Lewis 
township Oct. 19, 1835, son of John Klopp (3).
	John Klopp (or Klapp) emigrated from France with his two brothers, 
the latter settling in the North and West. He himself located in Bern 
township, Berks Co., Pa., where he became a large land owner and where 
he died. He was the father of a large family, as follows: John (2); 
Abraham; who died in Berks county; George, who settled in the West; 
Jacob, who died young; Daniel, who died at Pottsville; Peter, mentioned 
below; Catharine, who married a Snyder; and Christian, who married a 
Nauel.
	Peter Klopp, son of John, was born in Berks county, and on coming 
to Northumberland county located at McEwensville, where he engaged in 
tanning for a year. At the end of that time he went to Union county, and 
there followed farming, and died at the age of fifty-eight years. He is 
buried in Harmony cemetery, Milton. He married Catharine Haag, by whom 
he had fourteen children, seven sons and seven daughters: Reuben, Jared, 
Sophia, William, Sarah, Kate, Mary, 
	
	END OF PAGE 460
	
John, Rebecca, Daniel, Samuel, Charles, Delia and Ella.
	John Klopp (Klapp) (2) was born June 22, 1784, in Berks county, 
Pa., and died Oct. 1, 1828. About 1818 be came from his native county by 
team to Northumberland, county, and bought a farm in Lewis township, 
near Turbutville, where he made his home, devoting the remainder of his 
life to its cultivation. He married Elizabeth Kline, born Feb. 27, 1787, 
who died July 15, 1836, and they are buried at Paradise Church. Their 
children were: Samuel; John (3); Molly, Mrs. Raup; Benneville; Daniel; 
Kate, Mrs. Hoy; Sarah, who married Philip Raup; Thomas; Adam, and Maria, 
Mrs. Leinbach. 
	John Klopp (Klapp) (3), son of John (2), was born in Bern township, 
Berks county, Sept. 1, 1811, and died in 1880. He accompanied his 
parents to Northumberland county in 1818, and as a young man learned the 
carpenter's trade. Later he was engaged in farming in Lewis township, 
where he died. He was thrice married. In 1834 he married (first) Maria 
Glase, daughter of Peter Glase, and their children were: William S., 
born Oct. 19, 1835; Mary E., Nov. 10, 1836; Sarah J., Aug. 16, 1838; 
Margaret C., Nov. 4, 1839; Thomas L., Feb. 11, 1841; Anna L., Sept. 21, 
1842 (died July 16, 1843); Angeline, Aug. 10, 1845; Emeline and 
Caroline, twins, Aug. 19, 1848; John D., Feb. 13, 1850; Maria, April 10, 
1851 (died June 11, 1851); and Mary B. In 1852 he married (second) Mary 
Truckenmiller, who died leaving no children. In 1868 he married (third) 
Mrs. Mary E. McNinch, and to this union was born a daughter, Mabel. Mr. 
Klopp and his first two wives are buried at McEwensville, while the 
third wife is buried at Milton.
	William S. Clapp received his education in the district schools, 
which he attended during the winter time, but as he was the eldest of a 
large family it early devolved upon him to assist in the family's 
support. He began farming on his own account in 1861 in Lewis township, 
but the next year he removed to Delaware township, where he was engaged 
in farming until 1879, when he returned to Lewis township and took up 
his abode on the old family homestead. There he continued until 1889, 
when he moved to Milton and opened a milk business, also doing some 
teaming. From 1904 to 1907 he was employed in the car shops but since 
then he has lived retired at his home in Broadway, which he built in 
1895.
	In 1861 Mr. Clapp was united in marriage to Elizabeth Eshhach, 
daughter of David and Elizabeth (Rishel) Eshbach.  Two daughters were 
born of this union, namely:  Minnie, wife a John Y. Buoy, a prominent 
merchant at Milton and Bessie E., who is at home. Mr. Clapp is member of 
the Reformed Church, and served as one of the church officials while in 
McEwensville. In his political belief he is independent of party, voting 
as he thinks best. For three terms he filled the office of school 
director in Lewis township, and two terms he was the acceptable overseer 
of the poor in Milton. He is a citizen who has won the respect and 
esteem of all who know him, bearing an untarnished reputation for 
honesty and integrity.

	LINDNER. The Lindner family is of English origin, but the branch 
here under consideration has been at home in America through six 
generations. It is now well and worthily represented in Northumberland 
county by Francis W. Lindner, former county commissioner and a well 
known merchant now retired from active work and living in Chillisquaque 
township, and his son and successor, Harvey L. Lindner, dealer in 
agricultural implements, wagons, carriages, harness, fertilizers, seeds, 
etc., at Milton, With a branch house at Pottsgrove.
	(I) Thomas Lindner, born in England, came to America long before 
the advent of steamships, and was several weeks on the water. He married 
in America, and later returned to England, where he died. His wife 
refused to take the voyage across the water, and so remained in America. 
Among their children was a son Thomas.
	(II) Thomas Lindner (2), son of Thomas, settled in Schuylkill 
county, Pa., where he died.
	(III) Samuel Lindner, son of Thomas (2), was a farmer in Schuylkill 
county, where he and his wife, whose maiden name was De Fran, are 
buried. Their children were:  Martin, Moses, Israel, Charles, Samuel, 
and Lydia (married John Aret).
	(IV) Israel Lindner, son of Samuel, was born in Schuylkill county 
Jan. 9, 1827, and died in Montour county, Pa., in 1901; he is buried at 
Oak Grove cemetery, in Liberty township.  He was a tailor by trade, an 
occupation, however, he did not follow long. Later he engaged in 
mercantile business at Lindnerville, in Rush township, Schuylkill 
county, and there built a stone hotel which is still standing. He 
carried on his store and hotel until in 1865, when he removed to Liberty 
township, Montour county, where he bought a farm, following agricultural 
pursuits until 1883, when he removed to Pottsgrove, and there lived 
retired until his death. In politics he was a Democrat and in Schuylkill 
county served as county auditor and as justice of the peace, receiving 
his commission from Governor Pollock, late of Northumberland county. He 
married Catharine Messersmith, daughter of Jacob Messersmith, and she 
survives. Their children were: Francis W.; Mary, who married Hiram 
Hagenbuch; Benjamin C.; Sarah J., who married Frank Coleman, of Milton; 
and Joseph, who died aged four years.
	(V) FRANCIS W. LINDNER, son of Israel, was born Feb. 22, 1852, and 
attended the public schools of Schuylkill county, remaining with his 
father until he was twenty-one. He then farmed in Lib-
	
	END OF PAGE 461
	
erty township, Montour county, for six years, and in Chillisquaque 
township, Northumberland county, for three years.  In 1882 he entered 
the business world as a dealer in farm implements at Pottsgrove.  This 
business he carried on until 1890, when he was elected county 
commissioner of Northumberland county, and served two terms, or until 
1896, during which time he lived at Sunbury. Returning at the end of 
that time to Pottsgrove, he there carried on the mercantile business he 
had established some years before, and this he continued until 1899, 
when he resumed the implement business, conducting establishments at 
Pottsgrove, Milton and Watsontown. He was very successful until his 
retirement, in 1907, his son Harvey L. succeeding him. That year he 
built his fine residence at Pottsgrove, equipped with modern 
conveniences that contribute much to the material comfort.
	Mr. Lindner is a Democrat in politics, and in addition to his 
service as county commissioner, referred to above, he has been assessor 
of his township, and at the present time is serving as president of the 
East Chillisquaque township school board. In religious faith he is a 
Lutheran, while his wife is a Presbyterian.  Fraternally Mr. Lindner is 
a member of the I.O.O.F. and the Artisans, and he was a charter member 
of Sunbury Lodge No. 267.
	Mr. Lindner has been twice married. His first wife, Alice Van Horn, 
daughter of William Van Horn, died in l901, and is buried in Oak Grove 
cemetery. To this marriage were born: Harvey L., mentioned below; 
Charles W., of Muncy, who married Cora, Hunter, and has two children 
Irwin and Desna; Alfred R., a salesman at Milton, who married Edith 
Trego and has a son, John; James C., a bookkeeper at Milton, who married 
Ida Compton and has a daughter, Isabell; Lee E., of Shamokin, a 
telegraph operator with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, who married 
Lena Allender, and has one child, Alice; Francis W., a clerk at Milton, 
unmarried; and Margaret, who married Albert C. Dieffenbach, a retired 
navy officer at Philadelphia.  Mr. Lindner's second marriage was to 
Elizabeth Moore, daughter of John and Catharine (Voris) Moore. She 
taught school for fourteen terms and is an artist of considerable 
talent.
	(VI) HARVEY L. LINDNER, son of Francis W., was born in Liberty 
township, Montour county, Sept. 24, 1876. He was educated in the Sunbury 
schools and graduated from the high school there in 1893. He began his 
preparation for the commercial world by clerking in Sunbury for a short 
time and then engaging as a traveling salesman, spending nine years as 
salesman for machinery and farm implements. He bought out his father's 
business at Milton in 1907, and since that time has been doing a large 
business, retaining the customers who had so long known his father, and 
winning many more for himself.
	Mr. Lindner married Jennie M. Kent, daughter of Isaac J. Kent, of 
Milton, and they have one daughter, Alice. Socially Mr. Lindner is a 
member of Milton Lodge, No. 256, F. & A.M., Williamsport Consistory, 
thirty-second degree, and Irem Temple, A.A.O.N.M.S.; of the B.P.O.E.; 
Artisans, and the I.O.O.F. His religious connection is with the Reformed 
Church.

	ISAAC J. KENT, father of Mrs. Harvey L. Lindner, was born in 
Columbia county, Pa., Aug. 22, 1850, son of Isaac Kent and grandson of 
John Kent. The Kents were of English origin, but the family left England 
and settled in Germany, whence they came to America. The great-
grandfather of Isaac J. lived in Northampton county, Pa., where he 
reared a family.  John Kent, the grandfather, was a farmer and lived and 
died in Northampton county.  His wife was a Hubley, and their children 
were; Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Eve, John, Mary, Martin and Solomon.
	Isaac Kent, son of John, born Nov. 10, 1804, died July 6, 1872. He 
was a stone mason and came to Northumberland county in 1853, locating in 
Turbut township, two miles east of Milton. In 1863 be moved to Milton, 
where he followed his trade and also engaged in farming. He married 
Rosanna Glass, who was born in Northampton county.  Their children were: 
Anna M., who married William T. Crumb; Elizabeth, who died aged nineteen 
years; Joseph; Charles T.; Henry J.; Thomas W.; James P.; Amandus, and 
Isaac J.
	Isaac J. Kent attended the schools of Turbut township and learned 
the carpenter's trade as a young man, serving his apprenticeship at 
Milton, where he worked for twenty years.  He and his brother Charles T. 
engaged in contracting.  On Feb. 11, 1875, he married Anna C. Martin, 
daughter of John and Jane Birch, and their children were: Jennie M., 
born May 25, 1877, married Harvey L. Lindner, of Milton; Blanche E., 
born Sept. 12, 1879, died aged two years, five months; James E. was born 
April 21, 1892.

	FRANK M. VAN DEVENDER, the subject of this sketch, was born in 
Northumberland, Pa., on Sept. 16, 1867.  He was educated in the public 
schools of his native place, and in early life was ambitious to be self-
supporting. For several years he was engaged in farm work during the 
summer and clerking in one of the general stores during the winter.  He 
later secured a minor position with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at 
Northumberland and after some years of service was advanced to the 
position of chief clerk and agent of the Adams Express Company. During 
the last two years of service with the above company he was engaged in 
special work covering the territory 
	
	END OF PAGE 462
	
between Harrisburg and Renovo.  He resigned his position with the 
railroad company Jan. 1, 1901, to take up the duties of register and 
recorder of Northumberland county.
	The Van Devenders have long been resident in Northumberland county, 
Mr. Van Devender's great-grandfather, Richard Van Devender, having been 
a farmer in Rush township, this county, where he is buried at the old 
Rush Presbyterian Church.  John Van Devender, his grandfather, was born 
in Rush township, and when a young man moved to Point township, this 
county; there he engaged in farming.  He married Mary Morgan, daughter 
of Joseph Morgan.
	Joseph C. Van Devender, his father, was born Nov. 26, 1834, in 
Point township.  In his boyhood he attended the public schools and 
assisted in the farm work, but in his young manhood he went to 
Northumberland and learned the trade of stonemason, which he continued 
to follow throughout his active life. He was regarded as one of the best 
workmen at his trade.  Up to a few years ago when his health failed he 
was exceptionally strong and healthy, with a vigor and energy which many 
might envy.  He was probably the oldest Odd Fellow in Northumberland and 
one of the oldest members of Eureka Lodge, No. 404, F. & A.M.  He was a 
member of the Presbyterian Church for forty years.  In October 1862, he 
married Harriet F. Gossler, daughter of Henry Gossler who was sheriff of 
Northumberland county in 1840.  They became the parents of four 
children: Harry G., cashier of the Grange National Bank, Hughesville; 
John F., bookkeeper of the Milton National Bank; Frank M., the subject 
of this sketch and Jennie G., who married Harry C. Holt, of Elrama, 
Pennsylvania.
	The death of Mr. Joseph C. Van Devender occurred Sept. 2, 1910, 
following a stroke of apoplexy.  The funeral was held from his late 
residence, and he was buried in Riverview cemetery.  Honest and 
straightforward, Mr. Van Devender was a man of unquestioned integrity 
and liked by all who knew him; he was highly esteemed and respected for 
his many sterling qualities.
	Mr. Frank M. Van Devender is an ardent Democrat and an earnest 
worker in the ranks of his party.  At the age of twenty-one years he was 
elected a member of the Northumberland borough council and at the 
expiration of his term of office, even though his town is strongly 
Republican, he was elected chief burgess - the Borough's highest honor 
to its citizens - for two successive terms.  He also served as a member 
of the school board.
	In 1900 he announced himself as a candidate for the office of 
register and recorder of Northumberland county. In November of the same 
year he was elected. His ability, impartiality and perfect fitness for 
the position were fully recognized by the people of the county in his 
three years of loyal service to them and his genial personality, 
together with his ability to make and keep friends, found him at the 
expiration of his first term a candidate for reelection.  He was 
nominated by acclamation and reelected by a handsome majority in 
November, 1903. At the expiration of his term in office he engaged in 
the work of public indexing.
	Mr. Van Devender is a member of Lodge No. 196, I.O.O.F., of 
Northumberland; Sunbury Lodge, No. 267, B.P.O.E., of Sunbury; also a 
member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Eureka Lodge, No. 404, of 
Northumberland, Sunbury Chapter, No. 174, of Sunbury, Mount Hermon 
Commander, No. 85, Sunbury, and the Mystic Shrine, Irem Temple, Wilkes-
Barre.  He is also a member of the Northumberland Bureau of Industry and 
is always found in the front rank when it means the advancement of his 
home town.

	JOSEPH S. REITZ, of West Chillisquaque township, Northumberland 
county, has been engaged for a number of years in market gardening, in 
which line of work he has made a notable success.  Mr. Reitz was born in 
Jackson township, this county, Jan. 5, 1848, and belongs to a family of 
French origin now numerous in Pennsylvania, where it has been 
established almost two centuries.
	The first members of the Reitz family to come to America - came to 
Pennsylvania, settling in what was then Tulpehocken township, Berks 
county. Among these were the families of George, Peter and Johannes 
Reitz, supposed to have been brothers. In 1759 we find one Daniel Reitz, 
Sr., paid 20 pounds tax, and another Daniel Reitz paid 2 pounds tax, in 
Tulpehocken township.
	In 1790 Michael Reitz, a native of Berks county, came thence to 
Washington township, Northumberland county, where he remained until his 
death. He reared a family of seven sons and two daughters, all of whom 
lived to be over eighty years of age. Among these were Joseph H., 
Samuel, Henry and Daniel.
	Joseph H. Reitz, son of Michael, was the father of Joseph S. Reitz.  
He was a farmer, also conducted a butcher business, and later had a 
general store at Trevorton, this county, until he died, about 1870. He 
was a member of the Evangelical Church, in which he was a class leader 
to the close of his life.  He married Catharine Siders, like himself of 
Northumberland county, and she survived him, living in Shamokin. Their 
union was blessed with the following children:  Susan (deceased) was the 
wife of H. L. Rogers, of Shamokin; Nathaniel, who became a merchant of 
Kan-
	
	END OF PAGE 463
	
sas City, Mo., married Angeline Wagner and (second) L. Rothermal; Joseph 
S. is mentioned below Isaac S. married Lydia S. Reed and had children, 
Lizzie, Emma, Rebecca and Wesley; Sedick S., a lumber man of Juniata 
county, married Judy Sholly; Sarah married William Zaring; William 
married Anna Fidler;  Wilson, merchant and cattle dealer formerly of 
Wyandotte county, Kans., now of Kansas City, Mo., married a Baker.
	Joseph S. Reitz received his early education in the schools of his 
home locality, later attending the Union College, at New Berlin, Pa., 
for two terms, after which he taught school for one term. Later he 
removed to Williamstown, Dauphin county, where he remained eight years, 
during which time he served as school director of his township.  In 
1876-77 he ran the stage between Williamstown and Tower City.  For two 
years prior to the death of his father they were associated in the 
general store business at Trevorton, after which he carried on a meat 
market.  In 1892 he came to Chillisquaque township, Northumberland 
county, and commenced market gardening, in which he has proved himself a 
master hand, his success being proverbial in the neighborhood.  He 
supplies all the vegetables to Bucknell University, Lewisburg, a trade 
which he has held for fifteen years.  Mr. Reitz is a substantial and 
respected citizen, of recognized worth in his community.  Outside of his 
private interests he is active principally in the work of the Methodist 
Church at Montandon, of which he has been a faithful member, having been 
class leader, assistant superintendent of the Sunday school and teacher 
in the Sunday school for many years.  In politics he is a Republican.
	Mr. Reitz married Lena C. Dunkelberger, daughter of Jacob 
Dunkelberger, of Hegins, Schuylkill county, and they have had a family 
of six children, namely: Kate married Adam Stahl and has children, C. 
Edward, Robert and Homer; Edward married Hattie Cummings and has 
children, Herbert, Lena, Robert, Elizabeth and Wilson; Jennie married 
Elmer Shaffer and has two children, Alma and Ethel; George married Ida 
Dawson and has two children, Edith and Dawson; Allen is at home; Howard 
married Esther Owens 

	CHARLES M. LESHER, a foremost citizen of Point township, 
Northumberland county, was born in that township Aug. 28, 1836, son of 
John George Lesher. The family is an old one in Pennsylvania, and the 
name is of French origin, having been originally written LeShar, LeChar, 
Leicher and Leshair.  The family was a numerous one and scattered to 
various Protestant countries after the revocation of the Edict of 
Nantes. One Jean LeShair was a refugee to Ulster, New York, prior to 
1700.  Of those who came to Pennsylvania John Nicholas Lesher located in 
Skippack and Jacob Lesher in Providence, both in 1732.  From one of 
these came John Lesher (2), who located in Oley, Berks county, and 
erected extensive iron works in 1760.  Several families of the name 
located in Lancaster county.
	Johan Georg, grandfather of Charles M. Lesher, was a descendant of 
Col. John Lesher of Oley township, Berks county, and was born in that 
county April 6, 1768.  He settled in Chillisquaque township, 
Northumberland county, where he followed farming, and died Nov. 1, 1823.  
He is buried in the Fairview cemetery, in this county, and the 
inscription upon his tombstone reads:
	     Adieu my friends, dry up your tears;
	     I must lie here till Christ appears.
On June 25, 1788, he married Anna Flickinger, who was born May 2, 1762, 
and died Oct. 24, 1841. They are interred in Lot 23. He was a Lutheran 
in religion.  Their children were: Michael, who settled at Newfane, near 
Lockport N. Y., where he had an eighty-acre farm, and later moved West 
(he had children): (John) George; William, whose death was caused by the 
bite of a mad dog (he was unmarried); Mrs. Kreitz; and other daughters.
	The Federal Census Report of 1790 shows the following Leshers: 
Jacob, John, John, Jr., John, Jr. (again), John, Sr., Michael and 
Nicholas. Jacob Lesher, of East District township, Berks county, had the 
following family: three males over sixteen, one under sixteen, two 
females.  John Lesher, of Tulpehocken, that county, three males over 
sixteen; three under sixteen, two females; John Lesher, Sr., of Oley 
township, same county, one male over sixteen, one under sixteen, three 
females; Nicholas Lesher, also of Oley township, two males over sixteen, 
seven under sixteen.
	(John) George Lesher was born in Northumberland county, and spent 
all his life in Point township, where he was a farmer throughout his 
active years.  He owned 240 acres of land, of which 201 acres are still 
in the family name and owned by his son Charles M.  He died in Point 
township, on what is now the farm of his son Charles, Jan 6, 1866, aged 
seventy-three years, two months, twenty-six days, and is buried in the 
Lesher plot in Fairview cemetery.  He and his wife, Catharine (Robbins), 
were Presbyterians in religious belief.  She was a daughter of Daniel 
Robbins of Liberty township, Montour Co., Pa., and died Oct. 22, 1869, 
aged seventy-five years, seven months, two days.  Nine children were 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Lesher, as follows: Robert, born Oct. 29, 1817, who 
died in 1903 (his wife Sarah, born in 1833, (died in 1907); Daniel, born 
Sept. 8, 1819; Lucy Ann, born April 21, 1822; Mary born April 2, 1824; 
Sarah J., born Sept. 17, 1826; George, born Nov. 28, 1828; William, born 
Feb. 14, 1831, who died May 29, 1896; John, 
	
	END OF PAGE 464
	
born Aug. 12, 1833; and Charles M., born Aug. 28, 1836, the youngest 
being now the only survivor.
	Charles M. Lesher received his elementary education in the public 
schools of the home locality. Later he attended Dickinson Seminary, at 
Williamsport, Pa., and when twenty-one was licensed to teach, following 
that profession for five winters in his home township and for three 
terms in Chillisquaque township.  He then taught the high school in 
Northumberland borough for three years and filled unexpired terms in the 
same borough two other years, making so good a reputation that he was 
made a candidate for the position of county superintendent of public 
schools.  He was defeated by only one vote.  For some time his health 
was not good, and he took to farming, buying the homestead place in 
partnership with his brother John, with whom he was associated for six 
years. At the end of that time he sold out to his brother, and after his 
marriage he went West, living several years in Pottawattamie county, 
Iowa, where he owned eighty acres of land and followed farming.  Mr. 
Lesher always feels that it was during his experience in the West he 
first learned to rely entirely upon his own judgement and take the 
initiative when necessary, and he brought so much of the Western spirit 
back to Pennsylvania with him that be was dubbed the "Western farmer." 
In 1883, learning that the original homestead was to be disposed of at 
sheriffs sale for a judgment note of $300, he purchased the place and 
brought his family East shortly afterward, in 1885 settling upon the 
homestead, where they have since remained.  Mr. Lesher has not only 
carried on general farming, but has also made a specialty of live stock 
raising for a number of years, and he has one of the finest apple 
orchards in central Pennsylvania, having seventeen acres of bearing 
trees in fine condition; be has raised and picked over four thousand 
bushels of apples in one season. In 1908 he erected the fine modern 
residence now occupied by the family, situated on the old Strawbridge 
road leading from Northumberland to the Strawbridge settlement in 
Montour county, Pa. Mr. Lesher has made great progress in his work by 
adopting the most approved modern methods, and many of his best results 
have been obtained by the carrying out of his own ideas.  He has good 
business insight and the courage of his convictions when satisfied that 
new systems and improved facilities will pay, and though conservative, 
he is willing to experiment and to be convinced of the worth of others 
opinions before passing judgment. He is regarded so highly by his 
neighbors and associates that his counsel is sought frequently.  His 
reputation and character are above reproach, and his life has been such 
as to merit the confidence he enjoys among all who know him.
	On Dec. 16, 1874, Mr. Lesher married Edith Florence Watson, 
daughter of Joseph and Susanna (Stamm) Watson, of Point township, and 
they have a family of five children: (1) Margaret W. is the wife of Rev. 
George A. Riggs and they reside at Porto Rico, where they are engaged in 
missionary work for the Baptist Association.  Both are graduates of 
Bucknell University, as well as of other educational institutions.  (2) 
Rev. C. Byron graduated from Bucknell University and the medical 
department of the University of Pennsylvania and is at present engaged 
as a missionary in China.  (3) Lena Ruth graduated from Bucknell 
University with the degree of B. S., from the musical department of 
Valparaiso University, in Indiana, and is an accomplished linguist.  (4) 
Harold V. graduated from Bucknell University and is at present a student 
at  Harvard.   He taught public school in Idaho for a time, and for 
three years was supervising teacher in the Philippine islands, meantime 
studying the native speech as well as Chinese.  Sociology is at present 
his chief interest.  (5)  Grace B. graduated from Bucknell University 
and taught  school in Point township and for one year in the State of 
Washington. She is now at home with her parents. Mr. Lesher's family are 
all Baptists, but he himself is a Presbyterian in religious connection.  
He is a man of temperate habits, never using spirituous liquors of any 
kind.  This sketch would not be complete  without giving due credit to 
Mrs. Lesher.  A worthy representative of her English and Quaker 
ancestry, she has contributed largely to the welfare of the family by 
her assiduous and intelligent cooperation, which deserves appreciation.
	ROBERT  LESHER,  a  contractor  of  Northumberland, was born Dec. 
14, 1845, son of Robert Lesher, mentioned above as the eldest in the 
family of (John) George Lesher. He was educated in the schools of his 
district and lived in Northumberland until he moved to Union county, in 
1861, there learning the carpenter's trade and continuing to make his 
home until 1868.  He has followed his trade throughout his active years, 
and since 1892 has been contracting on his own account, erecting many 
dwellings and other buildings in Northumberland and the surrounding 
territory.  He built Trinity and Grace Lutheran churches, in Point 
township.  He is a prominent Democrat, and has been both active and 
influential in the administration of local affairs, having served six 
years in the council of Northumberland borough, and twelve years as 
assessor, in a Republican district.  He has served at different times as 
delegate to county conventions.  He is the leading member of No. 1 Fire 
Company of the town, and its oldest active fireman.  He was a charter 
member of Lodge No. 179, K.P. 
	
	END OF PAGE 465
	
	In March, 1873, Mr. Lesher married Tude Bardsher, daughter of 
Samuel and Catharine (Rothermel) Bardsher, of Snyder county, Pa., and 
they have two daughters: Elizabeth, wife of T. P. Dunham, of the borough 
of Northumberland; and Roberta, who is attending school.  Mr. Lesher and 
his family attend the Lutheran Church.

	JOHN M. FARLEY, a lifelong resident of Milton, Northumberland 
county, was for many years engaged in the mercantile and millinery 
business there, but now devotes all his time to superintending his 
farms.  He was one of the organizers of the Milton Board of Trade, of 
which be is still a member, and though a man of retiring disposition has 
proved his worth in many ways, quietly but effectively advocating plans 
for the betterment of the borough whenever possible and using his 
influence without assumption but wherever his word would count.
	Mr. Farley belongs to a family which has been established in 
America from earliest Colonial times, the first of the name here having 
come over in the "Ann," the third vessel after the "Mayflower."  In 
England it is of ancient record, having been established at the time of 
the Conquest. The name, originally De Falaise, is taken from Castle 
Falaise, in Normandy, the birthplace of William the Conqueror. When Duke 
Robert of Normandy went on his pilgrimage to Jerusalem he left his 
estate in the custody of his sons Walter and William, as lords of 
Falaise; and upon his death Walter, being the eldest, became the lord of 
Falaise. William was "the Conqueror" of historical record. Walter had 
one son, William, who accompanied his half-brother to England, and this 
William DeFalaise was given twenty-six lordships in the County of Devon.  
In 1200 the name became Farley. Eleven different spellings are found: 
DeFalaise, Ffarlea, Efarle, Farle, Farly, Farlee, Farleigh, Farley, 
Farli, Fairley, Farlea.
	From Williamus DeFalaise the name is handed down through successive 
generations until we come to Thomas Farley, of Bristol, who married Jane 
Hungerford, of Farleigh Castle, Somersetshire, and they had two sons, 
Thomas and George, who founded the family in America, both emigrating to 
the New World among the earliest colonists.
	Thomas Farley, son of Thomas and Jane (Hungerford), was born in 
1602. With his wife, Jane, and one servant, Nicholas Shotter, he went 
out to Virginia, landing at "Archer's Hoop," a projection of land 
opposite Jamestown, Feb. 4, 1624. They made the voyage in the ship "Ann" 
the third vessel after the "Mayflower," and they had one child, born 
either on the ship or immediately after landing, whom they named Anne in 
honor of the vessel which brought them over. This child was the first 
Farley born on American soil.
	George Farley, second son of Thomas and Jane (Hungerford), was born 
in England in 1615.  In 1639, because of religious troubles, he left his 
native land, making the voyage on the ship "Lion," and settled in 
Charlestown or Roxbury. Soon afterward, however, he moved to Woburn 
Mass., where he lived until 1653, the year of his removal to Shawshin, 
afterward known as Billerica, Mass.  He and his family were the original 
settlers in that ancient village, where the old Farley home, built in 
1676, is still standing. At Woburn, Mass., George Farley married, April 
9, 1641, Christian Births, a Swede, who came to this country on the same 
ship as he did, and whose father had died on the voyage (in 1639) and 
was buried at sea. To George and Christian Farley were born children as 
follows: James, born Nov. 23, 1643, who died Dec. 10, 1643; Caleb, born 
April 1, 1645, who died March 16, 1712; Mary, born Feb. 27, 1647, who 
married John Sanders; Timothy, who was killed by the Indians Aug. 2, 
1675; Elizabeth; Samuel; born in March, 1654; and Mehittabell, born in 
May, 1656, who died Feb. 1, 1672. The father and son Timothy took part 
in King Philip's war, in which the son was killed, at Wickaboag Point. 
Mr. Farley was a member of the Baptist Church and a man of influence in 
Colonial affairs.
	Caleb Farley, son of George, born April 1, 1645, married (first) 
July 5, 1666, Rebecca Hill, daughter of Ralph Hill of Woburn. She died 
March 24, 1669, and on Nov. 3, 1669, he married (second) Lydia, daughter 
of Golden More.  She died Nov. 19, 1715, surviving Mr. Farley, who died 
March 16, 1712.  They are buried at Billerica.  There were ten children 
by these marriages, two by the first and eight by the second, born as 
follows: Caleb, June 28, 1667; Rebecca, March 10, 1669 (married Thomas 
Frost); Lydia, Sept. 27, 1670 (married Zachary Shed); Hannah, Oct. 8, 
1671; Ebenezer, April 3, 1674 (married Jan. 6, 1703, Elizabeth Shed); 
George, July 30, 1677; Timothy, July 28, 1680; Joseph, April 6, 1683 
(married May 8, 1712, Abigail Cook); Benjamin; Feb. 8, 1685 (married 
Oct. 29, 1707, Ann Dutton); Enoch, Dec. 21, 1688.
	Caleb Farley (2), son of Caleb, born June 28, 1667, married April 
8, 1686, Sarah Godfry, of Haverhill, Mass., who died Nov. 13, 1704.  His 
second marriage, on Sept. 25, 1707, was to Lydia Haws.  On April 6, 
1706, Mr. Farley sold his property to his brother Joseph and with his 
brother George moved to near Bound Brook, N.J.  Nine children were born 
to his first marriage, as follows: George, Jan. 26, 1687; Caleb, Jan. 6, 
1688; John, May 22, 1690; Sara, July 27, 1692; Mary, Sept. 29, 1694: 
James, Sept. 8, 1697; Debora, Feb. 20, 1699; Jonathan, Oct. 2, 1701; 
Samuel, April, 1703.
	George Farley, son of Caleb and brother of Caleb (2), was born July 
30, 1677, and died in May, 1720, at Bound Brook, N. J.  As stated, he 
and 
	
	END OF PAGE 466
	
his brother, Caleb moved to New Jersey in 1706, and in 1709 we find them 
trustees of the Ewing Presbyterian Church, near Trenton, N. J. George 
Farley was also twice married, the first time, July 14, 1699, to Rebecca 
Chamberlain, daughter of William, and widow of Thomas Sterns.  His 
second marriage was to a Miss Pearson, daughter of Cornelius Pearson. 
His children were born as follows: Lydia, April 29, 1702; Ann, April 29, 
1702; Enos, July 23, 1704 (died Aug. 17, 1723); Esther, May 31, 1707 
(married Jonathan Baldwin); Caleb, 1709 (died in 1802; married Catherine 
Gray).
	Caleb Farley, grandson of Caleb and Rebecca (Hill) Farley, was born 
about 1757.  When the Colonies gathered their scattered forces for 
defense against England Caleb Farley, then a young man, united with the 
Revolutionary patriots and proved a gallant fighter in the service of 
his country  He remained in the service until the end of the struggle 
and earned for himself a commission as first lieutenant. After the war 
he married Charity Pickle, of New Jersey, and they moved to 
Pennsylvania, settling in Union county.  He cleared several tracts of 
land, but some years later, through litigation concerning the title 
because of prior entries, though no improvements had been made on those 
entries, he lost his first tract. He then purchased 120 acres along the 
foot of the White Deer mountain, which he cleared and improved with 
buildings.  There in 1789 he erected the first gristmill built on the 
White Deer Hole creek, and he remained on this farm to the close of his 
long life. To Caleb and Charity (Pickle) Farley were born eight 
children: John, Charity, Jacob, Barbara, Catherine, Elizabeth, Abraham 
and Sara.
	Abraham Farley, son of Caleb, was the grandfather of John M. 
Farley, of Milton. He was born in 1791 in White Deer township, Union 
county, and died in 1875 in East Buffalo township, that county, at the 
advanced age of eighty-four years. He had followed farming all his life, 
with great success, owning a farm of three hundred acres, which he 
divided between his sons Abraham and Michael.  He had purchased the 
place after his marriage and spent the remainder of his life there, he 
and his wife both dying on the farm.
	On March 29, 1824, Mr. Farley married Rebecca Wolf, who was born 
March 19, 1804, daughter of Michael and Catherine (Smith) Wolf, who 
reared a family of ten children. Mrs. Farley died Aug. 27, 1878, a 
devout member of the Evangelical Church.  She was the mother of ten 
children: Catherine died in infancy; Caroline married Daniel Wolf and 
moved to Iowa (they reared a family); Michael married Hannah Hoy; 
Abraham, who lived on the old homestead in Union county, married Susan 
B. Schrack, and their children were: James A., Anna M., David F., 
William H., Molly R., Emanuel P., Hiram C., Susanna B., Angeline M., 
Clarence B. and Maggie E.; Charity died in infancy; Sarah married David 
Voneida; John married Mary Brown (he served in the Civil War); Jacob, 
who lived in White Deer township, married Mary E. Brown (he served in 
the Civil war and was wounded in battle); Elizabeth died in infancy; 
Wilson died in infancy.
	Michael Farley, son of Abraham, was born April 5, 1829, in Union 
county, Pa., was reared upon a farm, and attended the schools of Buffalo 
Valley.  Nothing was lacking in his training for the practical duties of 
life.  In October, 1849, he removed to Northumberland county, Pa., first 
locating in Turbut township, later in Milton, and in 1859 locating on 
the site of his homestead in South Milton, on South Front street where 
he passed the remainder of his days. Before his removal to that place he 
lived on the present site of the American Car & Foundry plant.  In 
connection with farming Mr. Farley carried on the manufacture of brick 
for twenty-four years, was also engaged in butchering for twelve years, 
and in 1855 established the first dairy route in Milton, continuing in 
the latter line of business for many years as proprietor of the South 
Milton dairy. He was an enterprising and progressive citizen, was a 
director of the Milton Water Company, and served in a few local offices, 
being assessor while he lived in Turbut township and member of the 
Milton council after the borough was enlarged. During the Civil war he 
furnished two substitutes for the Union army and warmly supported the 
Northern cause. He was a Democrat in polities.
	In March, 1857, Mr. Farley married Hannah Hoy, who was born April 
5, 1833, daughter of John and Sarah (Kennedy) Hoy, of Turbut township, 
and granddaughter of Philip Hoy. To this union were born three children: 
John M.; William E, who died young; and Harry M., born in 1869, who died 
in 1898.  The father died Feb. 11, 1905, the mother Jan. 21, 1909; she 
was a devout member of the Lutheran Church.
	John M. Farley was born May 28, 1858, in Milton, and received his 
education there in the public schools. In his early life he assisted his 
father, but he was still a young man when he went into the mercantile 
and millinery business on his own account, continuing it for many years, 
until 1907, when he sold out.  His location was on Front street.  Since 
retiring from commercial pursuits Mr. Farley has given his time to the 
management of his agricultural interests, which are extensive, and which 
under his supervision are proving very profitable. He assisted in 
organizing the Milton Board of Trade, in which he still holds 
membership.  Mr. Farley has a modest disposition, but he holds the 
respect of all who know him.  Socially he holds membership in Milton 
Chapter, Royal Arcanum.  
	On Aug. 4, 1877, Mr. Farley married Ida May, 
	
	END OF PAGE 467
	
daughter of John and Roaseltha (McPike) Martin, and granddaughter of 
Thomas Martin, whose wife was a Bryant; Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Martin were 
natives of England who came to this country and settled in Pittsburgh, 
Pa.  Two daughters have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Farley: Mabel lives at 
home with her parents; Helen married Newton F. Osmer, an attorney of 
Franklin, Pa. Mr. Farley attends the Lutheran Church, and Mrs. Farley is 
a member of the Baptist Church, while their daughters are Presbyterians. 
	HARRY M. FARLEY, brother of John M. Farley, born in 1869, received 
a good practical education and graduated from the Williamsport 
Commercial College in 1888. Though he died in 1898, he had become quite 
prominent in this section of Northumberland county, particularly in 
politics, and his death cut short what promised to be an active and 
useful career.  He was a committeeman in his ward, member of the borough 
council and member of the school board, also serving as secretary of the 
latter body. He held official position in the P.O.S. of A.