BIO: Edwin Myers, York County, PA Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Abby Bowman Copyright 2004. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/york/ _______________________________________________ Pennsylvania A History. George P. Donehoo, Editor-in-Chief. Chicago/New York: Lewis Historical Publishing Co., Inc., 1928. _______________________________________________ Page 87 EDWIN MYERS--A pioneer in both the social and commercial life of the community, Edwin Myers was an important factor in the economic development of York County. He was born in York in 1846 and lived there his entire life. He was the pioneer tabacco manufacturer of the county, having built up one of the largest companies of its kind in the State and remaining its president until the day of his death. Coming from illustrious ancestors of Alsace-Lorraine, his family tree in Pennsylvania goes back to the year 1756. His contribution to the commercial life of the community was widely recognized, and his ambitions for the public welfare of his city won him prominence throughout the entire county. Edwin Myers, the son of Ely and Henrietta (Eichelberger) Myers, was born in York, August 16, 1846. He was a direct descendant of the Countess Von Kalmer, who came from Alsace-Lorraine and settled in York in 1756. Since that year the Myers names has been known and respected throughout Pennsylvania. Edwin Myers was a student from early childhood. At the York County Academy, which he attended in 1866, he won distinction for his skill in mathematics. His fine business acumen was perceived while he was still in school. Mr. Myers organized a tobacco and cigar manufacturing business when he was still a very young man. This was incorporated in 1873 under the firm name of Myers, Adams & Company. Mr. Myers was made president of the organization at the time of its inception, and held that office until his death in 1916. At that time his business included the largest factory of any kind in York. To meet the needs of the ever increasing business a branch factory was set up in Dallastown. In addition to his own tobacco business, Mr. Myers was one of the organizers of the York City Bank, and for many years one of its directors. His financial responsibilities and obligations, however, did not keep him from taking an active interest in the civic development of York. He could be counted upon to sponsor every worthy project. He was a member of the Lafayette Club; a Knight Templar and past grand commander of the York Commandery in 1880. Mr. Myers married (first), at York, in 1864, Isabelle Frey. She died in 1874, leaving five children, of whom only one son, Walter Frey Myers, survives, now living in York. In December, 1880, Edwin Myers married (second), at York, Anna Iaeger, daughter of William G. W. and Louise (Roderfield) Iaeger. Mr. Iaeger was one of the pioneers of West Virginia, an extensive land owner and a member of the American Council under Lincoln during the Civil War. Mr. and Mrs. Myers were the parents of two sons and two daughters: 1. Louise, died in infancy. 2. Ellis, lives in York. 3. Pauline, married Samuel McCall. 4. Chester, resides at home. Mr. Myers died May 5, 1916, deeply lamented by all his friends. His memory is highly respected by all those with whom he had been associated in either a personal or a business way.