Biographical Sketch of Alexander OWEN; Philadelphia Co., PA

Contributed to the PAGenWeb Archives by Diana Smith 
[christillavalley@comcast.net] 

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"Philadelphia, A History of the City and its People; A Record of 225 Years"
Publisher:  S. H. Clark; Philadelphia; 1912.     Vol. 4  , page 138
Author, Ellis Paxson Oberholtzer
 
ALEXANDER OWEN

     Faithfulness to the trusts reposed in him was characteristic of Alexander 
Owen, who for eighteen consecutive years was in the employ of the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company in an important position.  He was born in Philadelphia, 
December 26, 1853, and died in this city, June 18, 1897, when but forty-three 
years of age.  He was a son of William and Sarah (Fox) Owen.  His father was a 
native of Wales and his mother was born on shipboard while her parents were en 
route for America.

     Alexander Owen was indebted to the public-school system of Philadelphia for 
the educational privileges which he enjoyed and which qualified him for life's 
practical duties.  After putting aside his text-books he entered the service of 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company and his ability and fidelity enabled him to 
work his way upward, successive promotions being accorded him from time to time.  
His service with the company covered eighteen years and brought him to a 
responsible position, the duties of which he discharge most capably.

     In 1878 Mr. Owen married Miss Elizabeth Sopp of Philadelphia, a daughter of 
Ernest W. Sopp, a shoe dealer of this city.  They became parents of six 
children, Alexander Ernest, Sarah Elizabeth, Mabel, Dorothy Sopp, Theodore Sopp 
and Helen.  The first named is now in the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company.  Mr. Owen was an Odd Fellow in his fraternal relations and a Baptist in 
his religious faith.  His political allegiance was given to the republican party 
and he took a deep interest in citizenship, greatly desiring the progress and 
improvement of his city.  He never sought nor desired public office but among 
his friends -- and they were many -- was held in high esteem by reason of his 
genuine personal worth.