BIO:  J. W. SPANGLER, York County, PA

Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Kathy Francis

Copyright 2005.  All rights reserved.
http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm
http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/york/
_______________________________________________ 

History of York County, Pennsylvania.  John Gibson, Historical Editor.
Chicago: F. A. Battey Publishing Co., 1886.
_______________________________________________ 

Part II, Biographical Sketches, York Borough, Pg 48

J. W. SPANGLER, inventor and manufacturer, was born in Jackson Township, York 
County, in 1842.  For nearly thirty years he was employed upon his father’s 
farm, subsequently engaging in business, as a partner, with the firm of Crider & 
Bro. in the publishing business.  After one year’s association with this firm he 
embarked in connection with Samuel Fry in the manufacture of cotton comforters 
and quilts, which partnership lasted one year.  He then formed the company of J. 
W. Spangler & Bro., J. C. Spangler being the partner.  This firm continued until 
1882, notwithstanding being burned out in 1876.  They next began the manufacture 
of agricultural implements, and have so continued.  Our subject is a natural 
mechanic, and notwithstanding the fact of never serving an apprenticeship, has 
taken out thirteen patents, each of them being valuable.  Their principal work 
now is in the manufacture of Spangler’s Fertilizer Feed, Improved Corn Planter, 
Lime Spreader, and the building of feed cutters.  Mr. Spangler’s many other 
inventions include a washing machine, and last, but important, is his “lightning 
hitch,” a paragon of simplicity in hitching or unhitching a horse.  Mr. Spangler 
is yet young in years, and will doubtless add more improvements to the benefit 
of mankind.  He is an excellent business man, and a moral citizen.  Mr. Spangler 
was married, in 1882, to Laura S. McKinley, of York.  They have one child, Julia 
Estelle, and are members of the Reformed Church.