PROF. HENRY HOUSTON BAISH, superintendent of the public schools of Altoona,
Pa., and an educator of experience, was born near Bendersville, Adams County,
Pa., February 11, 1874, and is a son of Garrett J. and Julia (Pensyl) Baish.
The father of Prof. Baish was born at Franklintown, York County, Pa. He was
for many years engaged in the painting and wall paper business in Adams
County. His death occurred September 6, 1906. The mother survives and resides
with her son, Henry H. Baish.
     Henry H. Baish completed the common school course and in 1895 was
graduated from the Cumberland Valley State Normal School at Shippensburg, Pa.
Prior to and after his attendance at normal school he taught school in Altoona
for four years and in 1901 he was graduated in the classical course at Lebanon
Valley College, in Lebanon County, Pa. He then returned to Altoona and taught
in the city schools for seven years and on August 17, 1908, was appointed
superintendent of the whole school system for the city. This responsible
office, with its numerous other duties, includes the supervision of 17 school
buildings and 218 teachers. In every way he is well equipped for this work,
his whole life having been devoted to educational work.
     Professor Baish is a Republican in his political views. With his mother
he attends the United Brethren church. Two years after graduation from
college, his Alma Mater, Lebanon Valley College, honored him by electing him
a trustee of the college to represent the Alumni Association, which position
he has held continuously ever since.