(Picture of William Heebner)

 

WILLIAM HEEBNER. The Heebner family are among the oldest of German descent in Montgomery county. David Heebner came with the great body of Schwenkfelders to Pennsylvania in 1734, most of them settling in what is now Montgomery county. Mary, wife of David Heebner, accompanied him. Their children were Christoph; Rosanna, born May 9, 1738; George born June 21, 1744. David died December 27, 1784, and his widow died June 11, 1793. George Heebner, son of David, was the great-grandfather of William D. Heebner, the subject of this sketch.

George Heebner married Susanna, daughter of Balthasar Heydrick, April 26, 1769. Their only child was Balthasar Heebner, who was born June 12, 1770. The wife and mother died a week later, and the father married a second time, having a large family of children.

Balthasar Heebner (grandfather) married Susanna, daughter of Christopher Schultz, thus uniting two prominent and well known families of the Schwenkfelders, May 20,1794. Their children George, born 1795, died in infancy; a daughter, born 1796, died at the age of two days; Anthony S., 1798; Anna, 1800; Maria, 1803, died at twelve years of age; Catharine, 1806; David S. (father) born June 25, 1810; Lydia, born September 8, 1812.

Balthasar Heebner was a minister Of the society for many years, and until his death, which occurred April 29, 1848, at the age of seventy-seven years, ten months, twenty-one days. The genealogical record of the Schwenfelders probably owes its existence to him. It was preserved by him in German manuscript to about the year 1846. In earlier days to 1804 a few records had been kept, but they were abandoned about that time. He conceived the idea of combining all in one record, and he accordingly copied from what he could find continuing the work to near the close of his long life. But for his industry and foresight much valuable material would have been lost. Cheerful and kind in disposition, of active and industrious habits, Rev. Balthasar Heebner had the fullest respect and confidence of the community in which he lived, and he transmitted these rare qualities to his descendants. His wife died March 22, 1848, aged seventy-two years and four months.

 

(Page 229)

 

David S. Heebner was destined to a long and exceedingly useful life. Although mostly self taught, the schools of his day affording little in the way of an opportunity to acquire anything like a through education, he rose to a commanding position in life, being an inventor, machinist, and for many years the head of the extensive establishment of Heebner & Sons of Lansdale. He engaged in farming until the year 1840, when he commenced in a small way the manufacture of agricultural machinery at Norritonville, a few miles from Norristown. He was a pioneer in the invention of the modern machinery and the farm implements which have done so much to lighten the labor of the farmer. He was always in advance of his time, and it took the community some time to catch up, as it were, with his advanced ideas. He became successful in his business, his patrons coming eventually from every state of the union and from all parts of the world, his two sons, Isaac and William D., assisting him greatly in the development of his progressive views on the subject of farm machinery.

The whole system of agriculture in the United States has been revolutionized in the past sixty years as the result of the labors of David S. Heebner & Sons Inc., and others who, like them, applied themselves to the task of superseding the clumsy and ineffective implements of farming and gardening with those that were fully adapted to the needs of the occupation. 11 ____, 1872 he went into partnership with his sons, who had established an agricultural machine making plant at the village of Lansdale that was to become one of the most extensive and successful of that kind in the entire country. David S. Heebner continued in this partnership of Heebner & Sons until October, 1887, by which time the business of the establishment had developed largely from the small beginnings he had made in Norriton nearly forty years earlier.

David S. Heebner enjoyed in a very high degree the esteem and confidence of the community in which he lived. In 1891 he was commissioned postmaster of Lansdale by President Benjamin Harrison, and held the position for four years, performing its duties in a most acceptable manner. In politics the family, like most Schwenkfelders, were old-line Whigs and later Republicans.

He was twice married, his first wife being Anna, daughter of Henry Derstein, who died June 8, 1853. The couple had nine children, as follows: Joseph, born June 11, 1833, died April 3, 1838; James, born August 6, 1836, died April 8, 1838: MaryAnn, born April 2, 1839; Isaac D., born January 18, 1841; Addison, born June 18, 1843, died at the age of two months; Josiah, born July 5, 1844, is a well known farmer of Norriton; Jacob, born August l0, 1846; William D., born September 27, 1848, subject of this sketch; David, born August 22, 1851, died June 15, 1852.

David Heebner married (second wife) Regina, daughter of the Rev. Christopher Schultz. They had one child, Abraham, born May 22, 1857, died October 6, 1862.

Hon. William D. Heebner was reared on the farm and attended the public schools until he reached the age of fourteen years. He served an apprenticeship of seven years in his father's machine shop, learning the business of agricultural implement making in all its branches. On completing his trade in 1870, Mr. Heebner went to Lansdale and became a partner with his brother, Isaac D. Heebner, and the foundation of the firm's subsequent extensive business was laid.

Two years later the firm became Heebner & Sons, and so continued until October, 1887, when William D. Heebner purchased the entire plant, which he has operated successfully ever since. The proprietor, who is still a young man, comparatively speaking, has seen the business increase with every passing year, its every department being so thoroughly organized and so well managed that the operation of the plant is now entirely unaffected by his presence or absence. He has chosen thoroughly competent persons to take charge of every mechanical and business detail, and there is no break in the running of the great machine which the plant has become as the result of the organizing power of Mr. Heebner. Its work goes on steadily increasing from year to year, the managers of the business knowing in advance just what to expect in the way of orders, and never being troubled by the slightest fear that the seasons output will exceed the demand from their customers in all parts of the world. Not only the wonderfully improved machines are the inventions the members of the firm, but the devices used in their construction are the productions of its skill and genius. Many of these work automatically, saving the labor that would require many employees, and insuring a perfection of detail that could not be secured by hand labor, however carefully executed. Every machine of a certain kind and size is an exact duplicate in all its parts of every other made by the firm. Every year since the establishment of this industry, it has shown a healthy and satisfactory growth. The business like methods of the firm and their known adherence to fair dealing with all their customers, new or old, combined with the excellence of their goods, retain their old customers and make them new friends at home and abroad.

 

(Page 230)

 

Every year improvements are added to the machines which have long been recognized as the specialties of the firm, so that these have no equals, much less superiors, in the market. They are emphatically the very best of their kind. The aim is constantly to have every machine that is turned out at the works thoroughly up to date, its every part being so constructed and so adjusted as to secure the greatest possible strength and usefulness. Every year improvements are necessarily added to the plant to enable it to accomplish what is desired in this respect. Its specialties are all leaders in the particular class to which they belong.

Again and again they have won the first prizes in competition with all other machine makers at the World's Fairs that have been held in Europe and America. The farm machinery made at the Heebner plant includes horse-powers and threshers; feed cutters, with or without crushing or shredding attachments; sawing machines, and other specialties for farmers, whether they are located on the Atlantic coast, in the Mississippi valley, on the steppes of Siberia, or the plains of Argentina. The products of the establishment are sent to every part of Pennsylvania, to every state of the American union, and to every country of the globe. Wherever they are used they have won for themselves a high reputation, simply because they have deserved it.

The value of the plant is difficult to estimate. The buildings are very extensive, and the machinery used in the various processes is expensive as well as complicated. In addition to owning and operating this plant, Mr. Heebner is a heavy stockholder in the Lansdale Water Company, of which he is president; and owns a large amount of valuable real estate. He has also important interests in the south, having a luxurious winter home in Florida, owning several orange groves.

He is closely identified with the interests of the flourishing town, which has grown up, around his works. He has been a member of its council, its honored burgess for a number of years, and at all times an active worker in behalf of the interests of the Republican party. He is always on hand on the day of election to assist in getting out the full party vote. He has a deep interest in the system of public school education, and in everything else that pertains to the welfare of the community.

He is also a leader in various financial enterprises, being a director in the People's National Dank of Norristown, and interested in other institutions. He served two terms at Harrisburg as a member of the Pennsylvania house of representatives, one of his most prominent achievements being the introduction on Washington's Birthday of a bill making an appropriations for freeing of the burden of debt the Headquarters of Washington at Valley Forge, which measure, through his advocacy and that of his friends in both houses of the legislature, became a law.

Mr. Heebner married, November 7, 1872, Emma, daughter of Jesse Frantz, of Centre Square, who died August 22, 1881. He married, November 29, 1883, Elizabeth Shearer, daughter of John Shearer, of Lansdale. By the first marriage he had three children; Clarella, Blanche and Estelle. Estelle married George W. Neuman, and they have one child. Blanche married Eugene Frey.

(Picture of Mrs. William D. Heebner)

 

By the second marriage there are also three children: Robert S., a student at Lafayette College: J. Donald, and Grace W.

Mr. Heebner is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Lansdale, and one of its trustees. He is an earnest worker, and for the past twenty-five years the leader of its choir.

 

(Page 231)

 

He is a member of Lansdale Castle, No. 244, Knights of the Golden Eagle; a charter member of Lodge No. 977, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which he assisted in organizing; a member of Charity Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, of Norristown; of Norristown Chapter, No. 190, Royal Arch Masons, and of Hutchinson Commandery, No. 32 Knights Templar. He is a member of Washington Camp, No. 120, Patriotic Order Sons of America, of Lansdale, and of Norristown Lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Few men are so highly respected in their communities as Mr. Heebner.

 

 

JACOB G. KINSEY. Heinrich Kinsey, the first of the family in this country, and grandfather of Jacob G. Kinsey, emigrated from Germany to the United States and located in Rockhill township, Bucks county, Pennsylvania. He was a farmer by occupation, industrious and thrifty, like so large a proportion of the German settlers. He died in Rock Hill township, Bucks county, near Sellersville.

Among the children of Heinrich Kinsey was Jacob (father) born near Quakertown, Bucks county, in the year 1812. He died in 1885. He was educated in the schools of the vicinity, and on relinquishing school studies, engaged in the occupation of farming, which he followed through life. He was successful, and amassed considerable money. He was a Republican in politics, but never sought or held office. He married Phebe Garges, who was a native of Montgomery county, Lower Salford township. She survived him some time, dying in March, 1902, at an advanced age. Jacob and Phebe Kinsey had the following children: Eliza, Catharine and Henry (both deceased); Lavina, Samuel (deceased) and Jacob G., the subject of this sketch.

Jacob G. Kinsey was born on the family homestead in Lower Salford, on March 13, 1858. He was educated in Bucks county, concluding with a course at the state normal school at Millersville, in Lancaster county. He had looked forward to becoming a teacher, and engaged in that occupation, teaching four years in Bucks county. He then went into a creamery, where he was employed until 1887, when he operated on his own account, owning three creameries which he sold in 1891, and removing to his present home in Limerick township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, near Linfield where he built a distillery and a warehouse capable of containing 2,000 barrels of whisky. He later increased the capacity to 20,000 barrels, and is still engaged in this business. He has been very successful, and his distillery is regarded as one of the most flourishing in Pennsylvania, the plant being operated about eight months in each year, and employing from six to ten men.

Mr. Kinsey married in 1885 Miss Elizabeth Longaker, daughter of Abraham Longaker, a farmer near Schwenksville, and the couple have the following children: Edna E., Laura and Isaac N. Mr. Kinsey is a Republican in politics, and is a member of the Masonic order.

 

 

WILSON SELDEN. The first settler of the Selden family in this country was William Selden, great-grandfather of Wilson Selden, the subject of this sketch. In the seventeenth century He was ordered by the King of England to Virginia, near Norfolk, to "preach the word of God" to the settlers in that section of country. He came to America and built a church with the aid of a few of the inhabitants, and preached the Episcopal faith to many. He was said to have been a man of fine personal appearance and commanding presence, and was held in high esteem in England as well as in this country. The church he built is still standing, having been preserved by his descendants. It is located at Hampton, Virginia, and is the oldest place of worship in that city.

Among the children of Rev. William Selden was William, Jr., (grandfather) who was born at Norfolk, Virginia, and educated there in the best schools of the day and by private tutors. He entered upon the study of medicine and became a very successful physician, following that avocation through life.

He married Miss Charlotte Colgate, of Maryland, of the same family as the manufacturers of the Colgate soap. She was reputed to be a great beauty, and was a southern belle. The children of Dr. William and Charlotte Selden were: William, father of Wilson Selden, John, Robert, Henry, Susan and Mary A.

 

(Page 232)

 

William Selden was educated in the neighborhood schools, and on completing the ordinary course entered upon the study of medicine, having the assistance of his father in his preparations for this vocation. In due time he entered Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, as a student, graduating from that institution with honors. He then went to Paris, where he remained six years, giving his attention to the different forms of surgery and medicine, and returned to Virginia, where he built up an extensive practice.

He was a man of rare intelligence and the most thorough culture, and was beloved by the whole community. During the Civil war he was a surgeon in the Confederate army, and had charge of several hospitals, serving for four years. He then returned home, and remained in the practice of his profession until his death, in 1887, at the age of eighty years.

He was a cousin of General Pickett, who gallantly led his division in the memorable charge at Gettysburg. William Selden married Miss Lucinda P. Wilson, died December, 1902, daughter of Dr. Daniel Wilson, and a cousin of General Edward Johnston. Her father was a leading physician of Louisville, Kentucky, and lived to the age of eighty years.

Mr. and Mrs. Selden had the following children: William, Henrietta, Julia, Charlotte, Mary, Caroline, Lucy, Louisa, and Wilson, the subject of this sketch, who was born at the old homestead at Norfolk, April 23, 1844.

Wilson Selden was educated in the schools of the vicinity and in the Virginia Military College, and was about to graduate from that institution when the Rebellion began with the firing on Fort Sumter. He enlisted in the Eighth Virginia Infantry Regiment of the Confederate army, and was appointed a sergeant. Later, his company was transferred to the artillery arm of the service, and in August, 1862, manned a battery captured from a Connecticut command. He participated in many of the engagements of that unhappy conflict, and greatly distinguished himself for courage and endurance. He was once severely wounded. He was at the battle of Gettysburg, July 3, 1863. He was captured by the Union forces at Dinwiddie Court House, Virginia, March 28, 1865, and was confined at the military prison at Point Lookout. On that occasion his horse was shot and killed under him, but he kept up the fight even after he was wounded in the leg. He was detained as a prisoner until the close of the war in 1865. On being released he went back to his old home in Virginia, which he still standing. He started a store, but as times had greatly changed he found that business was not very profitable.

He decided to go west and "rough it" for a while, as the impaired condition of his health demanded outside work. He went at first to Mexico and later to Texas. In the northwest he lived the life of a cowboy, with the result that his health was greatly benefited.

When he had recovered his health he returned to his old home in Virginia, where he married, in 1882, Miss Cynthia Browne, of an old and distinguished family in that state. He remained there engaged in farming until 1900, when he removed with his family to Limerick township, in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. He purchased a farm near Linfield, and has since devoted himself to farming and gardening. He is a man of very pleasing address, and delights in discussing war times with an ex-union soldier. He is what he calls an Independent Republican. He is a member of the Masonic Order, and attends the Episcopal church, the faith of his fathers. He has many investments in the west, and is a director in two banks in the state of Virginia.

 

 

SETH L. SCHOLL, one of the leading brickmakers of Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, is a native of Gwynedd township, where he was born October 8, 1812. He is the son of Henry and Mary Ann (Lake) Scholl. The family is one of the oldest in the vicinity of Lansdale.

Mr. Scholl's, educational advantages were somewhat limited, but he made the most of them, and is all uncommonly well informed man. He acquired a knowledge of the elementary branches at the neighborhood schools and, being all indefatigable reader, supplemented what he had learned at school by a large amount of knowledge gleaned from books, which gave him mental culture far above the average. At the age of eleven years he left school and entered the first brickyard established at Lansdale. He learned the trade thoroughly in all its branches, growing up, as it were, in the new industry so far as his home town was concerned, became the master of the art and mystery of brickmaking in all its varied phases, and is now the most extensive manufacturer of bricks in that section of Montgomery county.

 

(Page 233)

 

That industry is now one of the most important in that thriving borough, and Mr. Scholl is the owner also of a large landed estate in and adjoining the town. He is prominently identified with every movement having for its object the improvement of Lansdale, being an enthusiast on that subject. He began business for himself in 1860, and has been engaged in it ever since. Mr. Scholl was a member of the first town council of the borough of Lansdale, and has also been a member of its board of school directors, having a deep interest in all educational progress.

He is all original member of St. John's Reformed church of that place, and was long one of its deacons. He has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows since 1864, and has passed through all the chairs, being a member of the grand lodge of Pennsylvania. He is also a prominent member of the Senior Order of United American Mechanics, and of the Elks. He has been a resident of Lansdale for more than three score years.

The locomotive snow-broom is Mr. Scholl's invention, and it is sold wherever railroads are in operation, the world over. Mr. Scholl has also done much in the way of the manufacture of cigar boxes. He is an inventive genius as well as a practical man of business, and has patented many of his inventions. He is as highly esteemed as he is well known to the people of Lansdale and a wide circle of acquaintances outside of that borough. Few men in the county are better or more favorably known.

In 1871 and 1872 he owned and operated a boat on the Delaware canal, in connection with the sale of his bricks. He ships large quantities of his bricks to Philadelphia by railroad, at the present time, as well as to Norristown and other places. He recently supplied a large quantity to the board of trustees of the Norristown Hospital for the Insane for the erection of the new Nurses' Home at that institution. He has also filled many other large contracts where a superior article of bricks is required.

Mr. Scholl is an earnest and active Republican, and loses no opportunity of aiding in the election of its candidates, and the enforcement of its policy. He and his family attend the Reformed church.

Mr. Scholl married, June 7, 1866, Ann Catharine, daughter of Benjamin and Mary Ambler, farmers of Blue Bell, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Seth L. Scholl: Benjamin A., born April 7, 1867, married Mary Nicom, and has three children; Henry O., born February 16, 1869, married Letitia Gerhart, and has three children; Horace Linwood, born January 12, 1871, died September 17, 1872: Ida May, born November 5, 1872, married Frederick Hunther, and has two children; Mary Ella, born June 11, 1878, unmarried.

The Scholl family in Montgomery County are descended from George Scholl, the first of the name in Pennsylvania, who in 1778 with his brother John, emigrated from Germany to America. John settled in Virginia, while George located in Swamp. He was a saddler and harness maker by occupation, and enlisted in the continental army as a saddler, and served throughout the Revolutionary war in that useful and necessary capacity, his little family meanwhile being domiciled in the city of Philadelphia.

At the time the war ended George Scholl went into what was known as "The Wilderness" on Branch Creek, in Bucks county. Pennsylvania, not far from where Trumbauersville is now located, where he took up a tract of 300 acres of land and reared a family of children. One of these was Michael Scholl, grandfather of Seth L. Scholl, of Lansdale born December 1, 1784.

Michael Scholl married, July 12, 1807, Mary, daughter of Conrad Hoot, who resided where is now flourishing borough of North Wales, then Gwynedd township.

Michael Scholl died February 25, 1858, and his wife, who was born October 7, 1789, died March 25, 1870. Both were buried in Wentz's Reformed church cemetery on the Skippack road, above Centre Point, in Worcester township. Their children: Jacob, Margaret, Catharine, Henry S., father of Seth L. Scholl; Matilda, George, Amanda, and Elizabeth.

Previous to locating in Montgomery County, Michael Scholl resided for a time at Chestnut Hill, in Philadelphia county. He was a farmer by occupation and followed that employment all his life, and gas widely known and highly respected in the community in which he lived.

 

(Page 234)

 

Henry Scholl (father) was born July 25, 1816, in Chestnut Hill. He was educated in the schools of the vicinity, and on reaching the age of manhood learned the trade of a butcher, which he followed for some years, and later became a farmer, which occupation he pursued until he retired in the later years of his life. In politics he was a Whig and Republican. He married, December 1, 1839, Mary Ann, daughter of Andrew and Eustina Lake, of the city of Philadelphia, their children being: Maria, born October 5, 1840, married John F. Ambler, of Lansdale; Seth L., subject of this sketch; Frederick, born April 23, 1844, married, December 5, 1872, Louisa, daughter of Seth Good; Franklin, born February 9, 1846, married, May 16, 1874, Sarah Beck, born June 18, 1856; Sarah, born in 1848, died unmarried, in 1870; Elizabeth, born January 31, 1851, married, October 6, 1870, Henry L. Peck, born September, 1850; Henry L., born May 1, 1854, married, December 25, 1870, Letitia R. Pownall.

John Ambler, grandfather of Mrs. Seth L. Scholl, was born May 8, 1783, and died April 9, 1859. He married Ann Morgan, born May 1, 1784, died April 4, 1863. Their children were Thomas, Benjamin (father of Mrs. Scholl), Chalkley, Joseph, John and David (twins), Septimus, Letitia and Sarah.

Benjamin Ambler (father of Mrs. Scholl) was born in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, September 3, 1810, and married, March 1, 1838, Mary, daughter of John and Catharine Fitzgerald. Their children: John F., born June 12, 1840, married. January 28, 1864, Maria, sister of Seth L. Scholl; Ann Catharine, born May 30, 1842, (wife of Seth L. Scholl); Thomas Ellwood, born November 30, 1843, married, June 20, 1867, Harriet E. Makens: Benjamin Morgan, born June 13, 1846, married March 5, 1868, Elizabeth Street. John Fitzgerald (maternal grandfather of Mrs. Seth L. Scholl), born July 4, 1791, died December 4, 1872. His wife, Catharine, born September 9, 1790, died July 14, 1872.

 

 

JOHN MATZ, a well known citizen of Springfield township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, where he is engaged in the milk business, is of German descent, his ancestor in the paternal line having come to this country about the middle of the eighteenth century, and settled in perks county, Pennsylvania. He was born at Reading, Pennsylvania, November 19, 1852.

David Matz (father) was born near Reading on the family homestead. He was educated in neighboring schools, and on reaching the age of manhood, in addition to farming, engaged very extensively in lime burning, at that time a profitable occupation. He followed that business for some years, and then removed to Montgomery county, locating in Springfield township, at Flourtown, in 1864. Mr. Matz married Susan Hofmaster, who is now deceased, and had the following children: Gustav, David, James, Catharine, Susan, Hannah, Esther, another who died in infancy, and John, the subject of this sketch.

John Matz removed with his parents to Flourtown when he was twelve years of age, attending thereafter the neighborhood schools. On leaving his school studies he engaged in farming, and followed that occupation very successfully for a number of years. He then engaged in the milk business, which he has pursued very profitably since 1873.

December 25, 1878, he married Miss Emily Harner, born July 25, 1857, daughter of Charles and Mary Ann (Scheetz) Harner, a farmer of Whitemarsh township.

The couple have had two children, Sarah G., born April 4, 1880, who married Daniel Nash; and George, born January 17, 1882, married Mabel Goodwin.

 

(Page 235)

 

Mr. Matz is an earnest Democrat, exerting himself in order to secure party success at the polls. He is a member of the Patriotic Order of Sons of America, and also of the junior Order of American Mechanics. He and his family attend Zion Evangelical Lutheran church in Whitemarsh township.

 

 

SETH S. SCHLATER. The Schlater family are among the old and respected settlers of Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. The pioneer ancestors were Casper and Barbara Schlater, who came from Rotterdam in the ship "Thomas Coatman," and landed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, September 22, 1752. Their son, Casper Schlater, was born July 13, 1759, in Upper Dublin township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. He became active and prominent in the affairs of Boehm's church, at Blue Bell, and filled the offices of county treasurer and commissioner in Montgomery county. It is probable that all the families by the name of Schlater now resident in the county are descendants of Casper and Barbara Schlater.

William Schlater, father of Seth S. Schlater, was born on the old homestead in Plymouth township, Montgomery county. After completing a common school education he devoted his attention to farming, and his operations along that line were very successful. He was united in marriage to Sarah Snyder, a native of the same township, and six children were born to them-two sons and four daughters.

Seth S. Schlater, son of William and Sarah (Snyder) Schlater, was born on the old homestead in Plymouth township, Montgomery county, in 1819. He obtained a practical education in the schools of the neighborhood, and on attaining manhood applied himself to farming, which occupation he followed throughout the entire period of his active career, and in which he achieved a fair degree of financial success. He was a stanch adherent of the principles of Democracy, and in active worker in behalf of the interests of his party. He was chosen to fill the office of township supervisor, and served acceptably for a number of years.

Mr. Schlater married, October 8, 1852, Catherine Freas, who was one of eight children born to Daniel and Christiana (Gilbert) Freas, of Whitemarsh township, Pennsylvania. Their children were: 1. Sarah, born April 11, 1857, who became the wife of Harry Hall, and their children are Laura, Jesse, Katie, Ella, Mary E., Earle, Elizabeth, Elsie, and Seth S. and Harry, both deceased. 2. Horace F., born July 1, 1858; he married Ella Wolf, and they have one child, Elsie Schlater. 3. Mary Elizabeth born February 1, 1862; she married Joseph Peters, and they have children–Annie H. (Mrs. _ Campbell), and Alice Peters. 4. Andrew Johnson, born April 5, 1868; he married Florence and his children are Florence and Elizabeth P. Schlater. Seth S. Schlater, the father of the family, died November 10, 1891.

The Freas family are descendants of old settlers in that part of Montgomery county. They are of German origin, and have intermarried with many of the prominent families in the lower end of the county. Daniel Freas, father of Mrs. Schlater, was the son of George and Barbara (Wolf) Freas, who were the parents of ten children. Daniel Freas was born on the homestead farm in Whitemarsh township in 1792, and followed farming all his life. He died at an advanced age. This branch of the Freas family were Whigs in politics until the formation of the Republican party, when they cast their votes with that organization.

 

 

THOMAS J. JONES, a well known retired farmer of Springfield townships, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, is a native of Hilltown township, Bucks county, Pennsylvania, where he was born March 9, 1831. He is the son of Edward and Rebecca (Owens) was a long resident in that section of Bucks county. His mother Rebecca Owens, was also of Welsh descent.

 

(Page 236)

 

Edward Jones (father) was educated at such schools as were available in that day. On leaving school he engaged in the occupation of farming, and followed it all his life. By his marriage with Rebecca Owen, who was the daughter of a neighboring farmer, fifteen children in all were born.

Thomas J. Jones was educated in the schools of Hilltown, Pucks county, and on leaving school learned the trade of a stone mason, in which occupation he was engaged for more than a half century, but of late years he has lived a retired life.

In 1898 he removed to Springfield, purchasing a valuable property at Flourtown, where he has since resided. Mr. Jones married, in 1855 Miss Anna S. Hottenstin, a daughter of Isaac Hottenstin, a farmer of Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania. She died suddenly March 3, 1904, and her remains are interred in Ivy Hill cemetery.

The children of Mr. and Mrs. Jones Alfred, Winfield, Elisha, Catherine, and another who died young. Mr. Jones is an active Democrat, although he has never sought or held office. He and his family attend the Baptist church. He is interested in all that benefits his community, and is much respected by all who know him.

 

 

(Picture of Henry B. Freed)

 

HENRY B. FREED, one of the best known citizens of Montgomery county, is a resident of the borough of Souderton, on the line of the North Pennsylvania railroad. He is a native of the adjacent township of Franconia, where he was born February 27, 1862.

He was educated in the public schools of Franconia, working at intervals on the homestead farm. On reaching manhood he left the farm and for nine years carried on a bakery business at Haneysville. He then went to Souderton, and accepted a position in the extensive Hosiery manufacturing plant of Michael Bergey, and has risen from one post in this establishment to another until he is now the manger of that flourishing plant.

Mr. Freed married, in 1886, Miss Mary Bergey, daughter of Michael Bergey. Mr. and Mrs. Freed have one child, Catharine, who is unmarried and resides with her parents. In politics Mr. Freed is an earnest and thoroughgoing Republican, and is a leader in the party organization in that section of Montgomery county. He has been very active in getting out the party vote in that vicinity. He was frequently, a delegate to county conventions, and stands well with the party leaders throughout the county and state. At the Republican county convention in June, 1904, he was nominated by acclamation for the position of county treasurer on the Republican ticket, his strength in the convention being such that there was no competitor who cared to make a contest.

He is a member of the town council of the borough of Souderton, and also served two terms as burgess, the usual rule being to serve but a single term, but this rule was relaxed in his case, as he had given such excellent satisfaction in the position.

He was a member of the borough school board, and is deeply interested in educational matters. He is a member of the board of directors of the Realty Company of Souderton, and a managing director of the Rockhill Industry Company of Bucks county. He is also a director of the Building and Loan Association. He and his family attend the Mennonite church.

The Freeds are an old family in that section of Montgomery county, the name having been originally spelled Freed. John Freed (grandfather) was born in Lower Salford township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. He was educated in the usual manner, his knowledge being merely rudimentary, and then settled himself to farming which he followed all his life.

He married and reared a large family, after the custom of that day. One of his sons was Henry K. Freed, who was born on the farm in Upper Salford township, at that time the homestead of the family. He then obtained what was possible at that date in way of education. On leaving school he turned his attention to farming, which occupation he followed until his death. He was a man respected in the community in which lived for his sterling qualities of mind and heart.

 

(Page 237)

 

In politics he was a Whig, and filled the office of school director. In his later years he removed to Franconia township, where he died. He married Sybilla Bechtel, of Lehigh county. Both are long since deceased.

The couple had the following children: Henry B. Freed (the subject of this sketch), and four others. He was born in a log house. Mr. Freed is a self-made man in every sense of the word. He has risen entirely through his own exertions and merit, and his judgment is consulted in all matters affecting the welfare of Souderton. He is highly respected by the entire community in which he lives.

 

 

JACOB H. MOWREY, one of the most substantial citizens of the borough of Royersford, is a German by birth, although he has lived more than a half-century in the country of his adoption. Jacob Mowrey, his father, was a native of Wurtemberg, Germany. He married there, and emigrated to America in 1852, settling in Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, where he became a valued member of the community. Among his children was Jacob H. Mowrey, the subject of this sketch, who was born in Wurtemberg, January 7, 1847. At the age of five years his parents brought him to this country, the family locating near Macungie, in Lehigh county, Pennsylvania.

Jacob H. Mowrey was educated there in the public schools, and in the intervals of school study assisted his father in farming. On arriving at the proper age to choose his occupation in life, he decided to become a carpenter, in which line he became a rapid and skillful learner.

In 1869 he removed to Royersford, where he established himself in business as a carpenter, which he soon enlarged into the building and contracting business generally. He is a master of his trade, and from the first he has been very successful. Many of the most substantial and beautiful homes of Royersford and its vicinity have been erected under his supervision. He is also the owner of a fine farm, which he finds time to operate.

He has been twice married, his first wife being Miss Catharine Hoff, daughter of the late Aaron Hoff, a father of Schwenksville, on the Perkiomen, in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. The couple had one daughter, Elizabeth. Mrs. Mowrey dying, Mr. Mowrey married Miss Diana Schlichter, in 1875. She is the daughter of the late Daniel Schlichter, of Lehigh county.

Their children are Daniel, Ellen, Annie, and William. Mr. Mowrey is a Republican in politics, but has been too busy in his occupation of builder to aspire to public office. He is, however, actively interested in the success of its principles, and he never misses an opportunity to extend aid as it may be needed. Mr. and Mrs. Mowrey attend the Evangelical church in Royersford. He is a public-spirited man, and is interested in every movement having for its object the promotion of the welfare of the community of which he is in honored member.

 

 

SAMUEL B. CONVER. Jacob Conver, grandfather of Samuel L. Conver, the subject of this sketch, came to this country with a Captain Reed, during the Revolutionary war, and afterwards married the Captain's daughter. Among the children of the couple was Samuel (father). He was born is Hatfield township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania.

Samuel Conver was educated in the public schools. On leaving school he became apprenticed to the shoemaker's trade and later to the carpenter trade, which he followed with success. In politics he was a Democrat, and held many offices of no particular importance. He was a man whose counsel was wise, and was greatly valued by his neighbors. He married Miss Catharine Baler, and the children of the couple were: Margaret, William, and Samuel L.

Samuel B. Conver was born in Hatfield township, on the Conver homestead, December 31, 1847. He attended the schools of the township for a period of thirteen months. He then learned the carpenter trade with his father. He followed that occupation for some years with success, becoming a contractor as well, and continuing in business for nine years. He then engaged in the platting mill business at Hatfield. In 1878 he decided to engage in the undertaking business. After learning it he entered an embalming school and became proficient in that art, so much so that he is esteemed one of the best embalmers in the state, and his services are often engaged in this capacity outside of his own neighborhood. He has interred in all, during his more than a quarter of a century's service as an undertaker, over seven thousand bodies.

In 1868 he married Susan Dresher, daughter of Jacob and Catharine (Well) Dresher, of Worcester township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Conver have had four children, as follows Reuben, Lillian, both died young; Jennie, married Oscar J. Fry, they having two children; and Samuel, who is a student at Princeton College in the law course.

 

(Page 238)

 

Mr. Conver is a Republican in politics. He is one of the best known men in Montgomery county. He has held the office of member of the town council of Lansdale, and also that of assessor. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and also of the Masonic Order. He is a director in the Lansdale Cemetery Company, and is also connected with other corporations. He and his family attend the Lansdale Reformed church.

Mrs. Samuel B. Conver is of Schwenkfelder stock. The other children of her parents were Mary, born December 24, 1851; Samuel, born October 10, 1856; Jacob, born April 8, 1867; Reuben, born April 20, 1869, died May 4, 1869. Susanna, Mrs. Conver, was born September 20, 1850, Jacob Dresher (grandfather of Mrs. Conver) son of Abraham and Susanna (Seipt) Dresher, married Regina, daughter of Christopher Kriebel.

Their children were: Reuben, born 1824; Susanna, 1825; Jacob (father) March 9, 1828; Abraham, 1830. Abraham Dresher (great-grandfather) was the son of Christopher and Anna (Kriebel) Dresher.

He was twice married, first to Eve Schultz, they having five children, Daniel, Anna, Susanna, Regina and Abraham; and (second) married Susanna, daughter of Caspar Seipt, their children being George, died in infancy, and Jacob, grandfather of Mrs. Conver), born May 13, 1790, died March 23, 1833. Christopher Dresher (great-great-grandfather) was the son of George Dresher, the immigrant, who with his wife Maria and three children came with the body of Schwenkfelders in 1734. He died March 3, 1774; and she died March 18, 1762. Abraham, his son, born May 14, 1730, died July 30, 1811, aged sixty-one years.

 

 

YELLES C. FREED, president of the Royersford Foundry and Machine Company, was born at Harleysville, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, March 23, 1854, a son of Michael Freed, deceased. Mr. Freed is one of the most progressive business men of Royersford, and is generally regarded as one of the most valuable members of the community.

He was educated in the public schools of Limerick township, and upon the completion of his studies learned the trade of machinist, following that occupation for some time in Norristown, and then engaging in business for himself, his shop being located at Eagleville, a few miles above Norristown. He conducted business there successfully for several years, and then accepted a position as foreman of the threshing and machine department of the Buckwalter Stove Company of Royersford, Pennsylvania.

Later he purchased this branch of their works and formed a stock company to manufacture horse-power threshers, cleaners and general implements. Later there was some disagreement among the general stockholders of the company, and after a connection of two years Mr. Freed accepted a position with the Granite Stove Company. At the sale of the plant of the company which he had previously organized, Mr. Freed became the purchaser and operated it for one year, after which he sold it to Latshaw & Urner, who conducted it for some time. In the meantime Mr. Freed was engaged in operating a small machine shop at his own home, which he continued for about five years, conducting a prosperous business. The dimensions of the shop were forty by forty feet, two stories in height, and in order to execute his orders he required the services of some twenty men.

In 1891 he and others organized the Royersford Foundry and Machine Company at Royersford, Mr. Freed being its president and general manager. New buildings were erected and thereafter enlarged, new machinery added from time to time as business increased and demanded it, and in the manufacture of all kinds of machinery constant employment was given to some seventy-five men.

 

(Page 239)

 

Mr. Freed is not only a very skillful and ingenious workman, but an inventor of note, having patented many of the machines which the company are now using. One of his patents is a machine used for punching and shearing heavy iron in place of drilling; this machine takes the place of sixty men, and is manufactured, sold and used all over the United States and Europe. He has been a prominent factor in the building up of the town of Royersford, aiding materially in the organization of various enterprises, in which he holds a large amount of stock. In addition to his fine home on Main street, Mr. Freed is the owner of several houses which he rents, and from which he receives a handsome income. He is a member of the board of directors of the Delaware Steel Foundry. In politics he was formerly a Republican, but of late years has acted with the Prohibition party. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Royal Arcanum, and the Knights of the Golden Eagle.

In 1876 Mr. Freed was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Detwiler, daughter of William Detwiler, of Eagleville. Their children are Naomi, Mary D., Norman D., Ellwood D., and Howard D. Mr. Freed and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and the True Blues.

 

 

J. IRWIN AMBLER, one of the best known business men of Lansdale, where he is engaged in the hardware and house furnishing business, is the son of John F. and Maria (Scholl) Ambler, who also reside in Lansdale, and is one of a family of six children.

He was born in Lansdale, February 9, 1872, and was educated in the public schools of that borough. After leaving school he decided to enter upon a business career, and entered a hardware store as clerk. He remained in that capacity until 1898, when he concluded to engage in business for himself, which he did, and has carried it on very successfully ever since. There is no better equipped place of business in his line in the rural towns of the state. He has built up a flourishing trade largely by his attention to business and desire to please his customers and the public.

He married in 1898 Miss Catharine Wall, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. The couple have one child, Ada E. Politically, he is a Republican and an earnest worker in behalf of party success. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of the Junior Order of United American Mechanics, the Knights of the Golden Eagle, and the Masonic Order. He is secretary of the Lansdale Building and Loan Association; treasurer of the Royal Arcanum, and agent in Lansdale of the United States Express Company. He and his family attend the Reformed church. He is a rising young man, and thoroughly respected by all who know him, none having a better reputation in the community.

The Amblers are one of the oldest families in Montgomery county, and are of Quaker lineage. They are descended from Joseph Ambler, who, according to the records, purchased on May 1, 1723, from William Morgan a tract of ninety acres of land in Montgomery township, then Philadelphia county (now Montgomery county), Pennsylvania. His wife was Ann Ambler. The ninety-acre tract was sold by Joseph Ambler to his son Edward, who in 1770 devised it by will to his brother John, who became the ancestor of the Amblers of Montgomery county. John Ambler had a son John, born 5th mo. 8, 1783, died 4th mo. 9, 1850. He married Ann Morgan, born 5th mo. 8, 1784, died 4t mo. 4, 1863.

Their children: Thomas, Benjamin (grandfather); Chalkley, Joseph, John and David (twins), Septimus, Letitia and Sarah.

Benjamin Ambler (grandfather), now deceased, was born in Montgomery township, not far from the present borough of Lansdale, 9th mo. 3, 1810. He married, 3d mo. 1, 1838, Mary, daughter of John and Catharine Fitzgerald. Their children: John F., born 7th mo. 12, 1840, father of the subject of this sketch; Ann Catharine, wife of Seth L. Scholl, brickmaker, and a prominent citizen of Lansdale; Thomas Ellwood, born 11th mo. 30, 1843, married, 6th mo. 20, 1867, Harriet E. Makens; Benjamin Morgan, born 6th mo. 13, 1846, married 3d mo. 5, 1868, Elizabeth Street. John Fitzgerald Ambler (father) still a resident of Lansdale, was born in the vicinity and educated in the public schools. On relinquishing school studies he learned the carpenter trade, which he followed for some years with success. In politics he is a Republican. He married, 1st mo. 28, 1864, Maria, born l0th mo. 5, 1840, daughter of Henry and Mary Ann (Lake) Scholl, of Lansdale.

 

(Page 240)

 

The Scholls are descended from George Scholl, who with his brother John, came to America from Germany in. 1778. He was a saddler by occupation, and, that calling being in great demand in the army, he enlisted as a Continental soldier and served to the end of the Revolutionary war. At the close of the war he and his family went into what was then known as "The Wilderness," on Branch Creek, near where Trumbauersville, in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, is now located, and took up a tract of three hundred acres of land, raising a family of children, one of whom was Michael, born December 1, 1784, who was the grandfather of Maria Scholl (mother). Michael Scholl married, July 12, 1807, Mary, daughter of Conrad Hoot, of Gwynedd township, who lived where is now North Wales. He died February 25, 1858. His wife, Mary Hoot; was born October 7, 1789, and died March 21, 1870. Both were buried in Wentz's Reformed church cemetery, on the Skippack road, above Centre Point, in Worcester township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. Their children were Jacob, Margaret, Catharine, Henry (father of Mrs. John F. Ambler), born July 25, 1816, in Germantown, Pennsylvania; Matilda, George, Amanda, Elizabeth.

Henry Scholl married, December 1, 1839, Mary Ann, daughter of Andrew and Eustina Lake, of Philadelphia. Their children were Maria, Seth L., and others. (For further particulars of the Scholl and Ambler families, see sketch of Seth L. Scholl, of Lansdale, elsewhere in this work.)

 

 

ATMORE LOOMIS, well known in connection with foundry management in the borough of Royersford, is the son of Esatt Loomis, who was born in Nantmeal township, Chester county, Pennsylvania. Atmore Loomis was born in West Whiteland township, Chester county, February 28, 1853, and was educated in the public schools of that township. On leaving school he turned his attention to railroading, securing a position with the Philadelphia & Reading Railway Company. He was employed in various situations by that corporation, and, recognizing his ability, the company promoted hint to the office of station agent at Royersford. He remained there for fourteen consecutive years, when he resigned his position and went to Manayunk, where he was employed by the American Wood Paper Company. He continued in that capacity until the autumn of 1891, when he formed a partnership with Yelles Freed, and purchased the plant of the Royersford Foundry and Machine Company, and has since had charge of the office of that establishment, which does a very flourishing business.

Mr. Loomis married, in 1876, Miss Fannie Rennard, daughter of Jacob Rennard, a butcher at Port Kennedy, in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. By this marriage there are three children, as follows: Florence M., married Charles Schelknberger, of Pottstown, they having one child; Mabel G., unmarried; and Paul E.

Mr. Loomis is a man of strong personality, and is thoroughly respected by all who know him. He has rare business attainments, and his success in business fully demonstrates his capacity for succeeding in whatever he undertakes. He is emphatically a self-made man, and is devoted to the promotion of the interests of the community of which he is so active and useful a member. In politics Mr. Loomis is a Prohibitionist, but in local matters he supports the best men, irrespective of their partisan leanings. As an indication of his popularity it may be mentioned that he has been a member of the town council of Royersford since 1890, being re-elected from time to time and practically without opposition. He is the president of the body in a borough a large majority of whose voters are Republicans. He is a member of the Masonic Order, of the Knights of the Golden Eagle, and of the Patriotic Order Sons of America.

Mr. Loomis is a stockholder in many local corporations organized for the benefit of the community. He manifests an active interest in whatever is calculated to benefit his home town. Mr. Loomis and his family attend and are members of the Methodist church.

 

(Page 241)

 

 

LEWIS S. ALDERFER. Abraham Alderfer, grandfather of Lewis S. Alderfer, was born in Lower Salford township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, he being a descendant of the Alderfer family who settled in that section of Pennsylvania at an early date.

He was educated in the schools of that day in his neighborhood, and on leaving school engaged in the occupation of farming, which he followed all his life. He married and reared a family of children. Among them was Jacob, father of Lewis S. Alderfer. He was born on the homestead in the same township, and grew to manhood there, being educated in the neighborhood schools. He then betook himself to the occupation of farming, like his father, which he also made a life pursuit. He was a Whig during the existence of that political organization, and later a Republican in politics, exerting himself to secure the triumph if its principles and candidates. He married Miss Susanna Swartley, of Hatfield township. The couple had the following children: Levi (deceased), Mary, Lavina, Amandus, Susanna, Jacob, Amanda, John, Abraham, Philip, Elizabeth, Sarah, Emeline and Lewis S., the subject of this sketch.

Lewis S. Alderfer was born in Lower Salford township, April 14, 1860. He attended the public schools, and on relinquishing school study turned his attention to farming on the homestead, which he continued for several years very successfully. He then commenced farming for himself in Towamencin township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, where he remained for twenty-two years, and in 1902 retired from active life and came to his present home in the borough of Lansdale, where he purchased a handsome property, and erected a modern mansion with all home conveniences.

Mr. Alderfer married, in 1881, Miss Mary E. A. Heebner, daughter of Benjamin Heebner, of Worcester township. She is now deceased. They had one child, Alvin, who is unmarried. In 1900 he married (second wife) Angeline (Detwiler) Romig, widow of James Romig. Mr. Alderfer has no children by the second marriage. Mr. Alderfer is a Republican, and is regarded as an upright man and a good citizen by all who know him. He and his wife attend the Mennonite church.

On the 25th of May, 1764, John Clements sold a grist mill in Lower Salford, on a branch of the Perkiomen, to Frederick Alderfer, who conveyed it to his son John, July 1, 1777. Although it does not appear that the Alderfers were the earliest family in the township, they have become very numerous and influential in that section of Montgomery county, holding a considerable amount of real estate. There were twenty-six voters of the name in the township in a recent year. In the assessment of 1776 the name of Frederick Alderfer occurs. He was a miller, holding 490 acres of land, and having two sons, John and Jacob. The mill property which belonged to the early Aldersfers was on the northeast branch of the Perkiomen, a mile north of Lederachville.

 

 

HENRY L. S. RUTH, a well known business man of Lansdale, is a son of John S. Ruth, a retired farmer now living in Lansdale, Pennsylvania. He was born in New Britain township, in that county, October 24, 1875. He removed with his parent's to Lansdale at an early age, and was educated in the public schools of that borough. On leaving school he decided to turn his attention to mercantile pursuits, having a natural aptitude for such an occupation, and entered a store as clerk, and later went to Fox Chase, in Philadelphia county, where he purchased a store and conducted it with much success for a period of five years. At the end of that time Mr. Ruth returned to Lansdale, where he has lived recently more of a retired life, looking after his own financial and real estate interests of which he has considerable in that borough and elsewhere. In politics Mr. Ruth is an active Republican, doing whatever is possible in the promotion of its interests. He is a director of the Lansdale Trust Company, besides having many other investments in which he is interested. He is a member of the Reformed church of Lansdale, and is connected with its consistory.

 

(Page 242)

 

Mr. Ruth married, in 1897, Miss Caroline Kindig, daughter of H. K. Kindig, the well-known wholesale grocer of Philadelphia. The couple have one child, Henry R. Swartley Ruth. The Ruths are an old Bucks county family whose ancestor came to America with the tide of German immigration about the middle of the eighteenth century. The family are largely addicted to mechanical pursuits, and have furnished several inventors and machinists who have gained an enviable reputation for their skill and ability.

 

 

JACOB L. FREED. Isaac Freed, father of Jacob L. Freed, the subject of this sketch, was a native of Franconia township, in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. He was educated in that township in such schools as were available at that period. After leaving school he engaged in agricultural pursuits, and continued in the occupation of farming the remainder of his life. He was also a drover, and was known far and wide in that capacity, having a reputation for handling good stock. In politics he was a very active Republican, and lost no opportunity of furthering the interests of its principles and candidates. He married early in life, and among the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Freed was Jacob L. Freed.

Jacob L. Freed was born on the homestead in Upper Salford township, August 23, 1858. He was educated in the public schools of the township and before completing his education became a resident of Franconia township, to which his parents removed. He attended the Franconia schools some time, and on leaving school studies became an apprentice to the carpenter trade. He was employed at the carpenter trade for eight years, and then removed from Franconia township to the borough of Lansdale, and took a position in the Ruth Agricultural Shops, remaining with that firm until 1887, when he decided to go into business for himself. Accordingly he purchased a property centrally located in Lansdale, and commenced the manufacture of implements used by farmers, making pumps, and attending to plumbing and repairs of all kinds. He has made a success of his business, giving excellent satisfaction to his patrons, and his business increasing from year to year. He employs a large force of workmen, and is constantly adding improvements to his outfit.

He married Miss Maria Hackman, daughter of Henry Hackman, a farmer of Hatfield township. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob L. Freed Lillian, married Mr. H. Rosenberger; Warren H., and Lester. In politics, Mr. Freed is a thoroughgoing Republican, working earnestly for the success of the party ticket, and doing his best at all times to promote its interests.

Fraternally he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows; the Improved Order of Red Men; the Ancient Order of Knights of the Mystic Chain, and the Masonic Order, in all which he is an active member. He is a popular citizen and stands well in the community, few men more so. He is a successful businessman, and ever ready to promote the interests of those around him.

The Freeds are an old family in Bucks and Montgomery counties, and are of German descent, their ancestor having come to this country more than a century and a half ago. For many generations they have been an industrious and thrifty people, and are among the most substantial farmers of the upper townships of the two counties.

Members of the Freed (Freid) family were among the early settlers of Salford township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. In the list of taxables of 1734 is found the name of Hans Freid, owning one hundred acres of land. In the assessment of Lower Salford in 1776, John Freid is mentioned as holding one hundred acres, and Peter Freid as holding 290 acres of land, one servant, three horses and seven cattle. Peter Freid had two daughters and a son John. To his son he deeded a water right, May 4, 1775, on a part of the Gabriel Schuler property, for a darn to irrigate the meadow, which is kept in good repair to the present time. There was at least one other son. Peter Freid had purchased the farm from Hails Reiff, in March, 1736. He had resided on the place thirty-nine years, and in the erection of the Salford Mennonite meeting house he was a liberal contributor. His death occurred in 1791, aged about seventy-six years. The Freeds are still landholders in the township, residing near the Franconia line.

 

 

JACOB B. DELP. The Delps are an old family of German descent, long settled in Hatfield and adjoining townships in Bucks and Montgomery counties, Pennsylvania. Isaac (grandfather) was educated in the schools of his day, and devoted his life to farming interests. He married a Hatfield woman, and their only child was Ephraim, who was born on the farm in Hatfield township at that time occupied by his parents.

 

(Page 243)

 

Ephraim Delp was educated in neighborhood schools, and then became interested in farming, which pursuit he still follows. He married a Mrs. Baker and had the following children Henry, Amanda, Charles, Ida, Addie, four who died young, and Jacob.

Jacob B. Delp was born in Hatfield township, on the family homestead, August 26, 1864. He was educated in the public schools of Hatfield township, and then took a course at Ursinus College, and still later a commercial course at the North Wales Academy and School of Business, conducted for many years by the late Professor Samuel U. Brunner. He then engaged in the occupation of teaching for several years, taking charge of schools in Lower Salford and Franconia townships. He met with much success in this calling, but being desirous of a more active and remunerative occupation he learned the carpenter trade, and made a decided success of that business from the beginning. He engaged very extensively in building and in the borough of Souderton, and has erected Inane homes that are very creditable to his skill and genius in his profession. Mr. Delp is an earnest Republican, and is at present a useful and valued member of the town council of the borough of Souderton. He has the unbounded confidence of all his fellow citizens, and has done much to promote the interests of the community in which he lives.

He married in 1889 Miss Sarah Moyer, daughter of Hezekiah Moyer, of an old Mennonite family. Her father, now deceased, was an able farmer of Lower Salford. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Delp: Elmer, Ephraim, Annie C., and another that died in childhood.

 

 

SAMUEL D. HUNSBERGER. The Hunsbergers are one of the oldest families in that portion of Pennsylvania included in Philadelphia, Bucks and Montgomery counties. The immigrant ancestor was a Mennonite in religious faith, and most of his descendants adhere to that denomination at the present day.

Julius Husberger (great-great-grandfather) was the immigrant. He came from Switzerland and located at first in Germantown, near Philadelphia. He was a farmer by occupation, and followed that pursuit for a livelihood. He removed later in life to Franconia township, now Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, where he remained until his death. Among his children, of whom there were a large family, was Christian Hunsberger.

Christian Hunsberger (great-grandfather) was born on the homestead in Franconia township, on the site of the present borough of Souderton. He was a farmer, and made that pursuit his lifelong occupation, being one of the most worthy and most substantial of the early citizens of Franconia. Among his children was another Christian.

 

(Page 244)

 

Christian Hunsberger (grandfather) was born on property which for three generations had been the Hunsberger homestead, he too, like his father and grandfather, being a farmer. He acquired a meager education in the pay schools taught by young men of the vicinity and kept open only a few months in each year, and married Miss Sellers, of Sellersville, Bucks county. Her father was one of the patriotic Americans of German descent who furnished horses to the continental army during the Revolutionary war. The couple had a large family of children. One of them was Jonathan Hunsberger.

Jonathan Hunsberger (father) was born on the Hunsberger homestead. He was educated in such schools as were available, and on leaving school learned the carpenter trade. After working at it for some time after he had completed his apprenticeship, he turned his attention, like his family ancestors, to the cultivation of the soil, and was engaged in farming for the remainder of his life. In politics he was an old line Whig, with, however, that distrust of politics and politicians which is inherent in members of the Mennonite denomination even in the present generation. He married Miss Elizabeth Delp, daughter of John Delp, a farmer, originally of Snyder county, Pennsylvania, but later of Franconia. The couple had the following children: John, William, Christian, one who died in infancy, and Samuel D., the subject of this sketch.

Samuel D. Hunsberger was born on the homestead in Franconia, borough of Souderton, February 19, 1838. He was educated in the public schools of Franconia, and at the age of sixteen years learned the trade of carpenter with his father, and followed it through early manhood. He afterwards opened a grain, coal and feed business at Souderton station, on the North Pennsylvania Railroad, and has ever since been engaged in that occupation, having an establishment in Souderton as well as one in the city of Philadelphia. He is one of the most prominent business men in that section of Montgomery county, and does a very extensive and profitable business. He married in 1863 Miss Eliza Krupp, a daughter of William Krupp, of Towamencin township, in Montgomery county. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel D. Hunsberger: William E., Samuel W., Charles O., Sylvania, J. Sydney, and another that died in infancy unnamed.

Mr. Hunsberger is a thoroughgoing Republican, who cast his first vote for General John C. Fremont, the pioneer Republican nominee for the presidency of the United States, and has been voting for its candidates and laboring to secure the triumph of its principles ever since. He has served as a member of the town council of Souderton, and has frequently been mentioned as a candidate for county offices on the Republican ticket. He is a business man of rare judgment and ability, and enjoys the respect and confidence of the entire community.

 

 

(Picture of William DeHaven)

 

WILLIAM DEHAVEN. The DeHaven family are among the oldest in Eastern Pennsylvania. Jonathan (grandfather of William DeHaven) was a native of Chester county, being of a branch of the family which has long resided in East Coventry township. He was educated in the schools near his home in Chester county, being employed in the intervals of school study in the occupation of farming. He learned the trade of coachmaking, which he followed for many years, removing to Trappe, in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. He was a Whig in politics. He was a thorough master of coachmaking, and was very successful in business.

Among the children of Jonathan DeHaven was Valentine DeHaven, who was born at Trappe, on the homestead. He was educated in the public schools, and later learned the trade of wheelwright, which he followed all his life, removing to East Coventry township in Chester county. In politics he was an active Whig and Republican, and was deeply interested in all that concerned the welfare of his community, but he never sought or held office. He married Miss Mary Smith, of Montgomery county, who is also now deceased.

They had the following children Margaret A., Dorinda, Jonathan and William, the subject of this sketch.

Hon. William DeHaven was born in East Coventry township, Chester county, January 17, 1839. He obtained a common school education, and on leaving school learned the coachmaking trade, which he followed until 1862, when the rebellion having broken out, he patriotically enlisted in the service of his country, becoming a member of the One Hundred and Sixteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers. He remained in the United States service until the close of the war in 1865, when he was discharged, having participated in many important actions. On his return from the army Mr. DeHaven went to his home in Chester county, where he was employed at his business of coachmaking for some time. Later he went to Philadelphia, where he purchased a business already established, remaining there for several years.

In 1880 he removed to his present home at Linfield, in Limerick township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, where he obtained employment in the Brownback Stove Works. He remained in that establishment until 1890, when he was appointed postmaster by President Garfield, and has held that position from that time to the present, except that he was removed during the Cleveland administration. He was, however, reappointed on the accession of President McKinley and the Republican party to power in 1897. Mr. DeHaven is an earnest Republican in politics. He has been a worker for the party from the time he became a voter. He became a candidate on the party ticket for the office of member of the house of representatives at Harrisburg in the election of 1900, and was elected. He was one of the most useful members of the legislature in the session of 1901, being a member of several important committees. He did not press his claims for renomination in 1902. He became a candidate before the Republican county convention of 1904, and was nominated. He is an active member of the Grand Army of the Republic, and of the Masonic Order. He and his wife are members of the Reformed church.

 

(Page 245)

 

Mr. DeHaven married, in 1866, Miss Sarah, daughter of Archibald Towers, of Chester county, Pennsylvania. They have no children. Mrs. DeHaven is at present in charge of the postoffice at Linfield.

 

 

MICHAEL K. BERGEY, the well known business man and postmaster of Souderton, belongs to an old Montgomery county family who have organized into an association for the purpose of holding family reunions annually, and are engaged in gathering information in relation to their early ancestors in this country. They are descended from Ulrich Berge, who settled in Upper Salford township early in the eighteenth century. In the line of descent from him was Samuel Bergey, great-grandfather of Michael K. Bergey, subject of this sketch. He resided in Lower Salford township, and was the owner of a large tract of land. Among his children was Aaron (grandfather). Aaron Bergey was born on the old homestead in Lower Salford township. He was a farmer by occupation and a Whig in politics. He married a Bergey, and had eight children, among them Michael, father of Michael K. Bergey.

Michael Bergey was born on the homestead in Lower Salford township, in 1836. He was educated in the schools of the neighborhood, and then assisted his father on the farm for a time. Later, with the aid of a friend who was in good circumstances, lie ,vas given a good start in life, opening a store at Franconiaville. He was successful in his new business, in which he remained many years, retiring therefrom in 1888, when he opened a hosiery mill in the borough of Souderton. He was successful in this business also, and now owns a large mill in that borough, employing about eighty hands, and having a ready sale for his product all over the United States. He has retired from active business, owing to his hearing having become somewhat impaired. He is an earnest Republican, and has held the office of school director, for which he is well qualified, being an earnest friend of education. He and his family attend the Mennonite church. Mr. Bergey married Miss Catherine Kulp, of Franconia township, who is also living. Among their children is Michael K. Bergey.

Michael K. Bergey was born January 2, 1868. He was educated in the public schools, attending also the Brunner Academy and School of Business at North Wales. After remaining at home for a time he went west and located in Kansas, and followed farming. Returning to his home, he at once assumed the superintendency of his father's hosiery mill, filling that position very creditably for some time, and doing much to build up the business to its present high standard. He remained there until 1897, when he was appointed by President McKinley postmaster of Souderton, and he has recently been reappointed by President Roosevelt. He has brought the office to its present excellent condition, is popular with the patrons of the office, and has the confidence of the entire community. He is also a fire insurance agent, representing some of the leading companies in that line. Mr. Bergey is an active Republican, and is a party leader in that section of Montgomery county. He has filled the position of county committeeman for twelve years, and has exerted himself vigorously to bring out the full party vote. He served for several years as clerk of town council. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Free and Accepted Masons, including the Royal Arch Chapter, and of the Patriotic Order Sons of America.

He married, in 1890, Miss Martha Nyce, daughter of Abraham Nyce, of Harleysville, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. They have the following children: Mathew S., Milton R., James I., Mary M., Frederica, and Michael A.

 

(Page 246)

 

REV. J. EUGENE DIETTERICH, the well known pastor of Zion Evangelical Lutheran church, of Whitemarsh township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, is a native of Columbia county, same state, where he was born December 4, 1858. He is the son of Henry (deceased) and Tamar (Evans) Dietterich. The father was also a minister of the gospel.

Rev. Mr. Dietterich was educated at Susquehanna University, and at Pennsylvania College, at Gettysburg, where he graduated in 1886. He then took a course in the Theological Seminary at Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, under his father. He was called to a charge at Friesburg, New Jersey, where he remained four years, and had a very successful pastorate. The manner in which the congregation prospered, and the large increase in the membership of the church, bore ample testimony to the success of his ministerial labors. Rev. Mr. Dietterich organized and conducted a mission at Bridgeton, New Jersey, which under his pastorate developed into a flourishing congregation. He remained in that position until 1895, when he received a call to Whitemarsh township, where he has ever since been located as the pastor of a flourishing congregation. He has built up the membership very much, and established the church's finances on a sound basis. His people love and respect him very much.

During 1903 he organized a church at Oreland, Pennsylvania, which is now in a flourishing condition, and has a membership of twenty-nine.

While in Bridgeton, New Jersey, Mr. Dietterich was a member of the board of directors of the Children's Aid Society, of the state, and president of the County Sunday School Association. He is the originator of the idea of decorating the graves of the sailors of the United States naval service who died and were buried at sea. He began the movement while he was filling a pastorate in the state of New Jersey, and since then the custom has gained a world-wide interest. On every Decoration Day the people gather at the seaside and strew flowers on the waters in memory of the heroic dead. Rev. Mr. Dietterich is a member of the junior order of United American Mechanics.

Mr. Dietterich married September 22, 1887, Miss Margaret L. Dimm, daughter of Prof. J. R. Dimm, D. D., president of Susquehanna University. They have two children: Charles D., born on November 7, 1888, and Margaret E., born November 25, 1892. Mrs. Dietterich is a very superior and gifted woman, and aids her husband very greatly, in church work. Her father, Dr. Dimm, was at one time pastor of St. Peter's Lutheran church at Barn Hill. After resigning that charge he became pastor of the Messiah Lutheran church, at Sixteenth and Jefferson streets, Philadelphia. He subsequently purchased the Female Seminary at Lutherville, a suburb of Baltimore, which he conducted successfully for a number of years. Resigning this position, he became the president of the Missionary Institute (now Susquehanna University), in which he is now senior professor.

 

(Page 247)

 

 

M. NEWTON BRANIN, a progressive and prosperous business man of Moreland, residing at Huntingdon Valley, where he is engaged in the meat and provision line, is a native of that township. He was born near Willow Grove, July 11, 1861, the son of Mark and Catherine (Murphy) Branin. His father was a descendant of an old New Jersey family. The mother was a native of Philadelphia.

Mark Branin (father) was born in Burlington county, New Jersey, September 18, 1811. He is a son of Abijah Branin.

When he was eleven years of age his parents removed to Camden, New Jersey. Thence he went to Abington township, in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, next to Germantown, later to near Jenkintown, and thence to a farm near Morgan's Mill. He next purchased a farm in Huntingdon Valley, and there spent the remainder of his life. He died September 18, 1900. His wife is also deceased, leaving died November 8, 1879, aged fifty-three years and nine months. Their children were: Mary, born December 2, 18.}2, wife of David Fisher, and their children now surviving are Emma, Albert, Edwin, Howard, Julia, and Mamie; and M. Newton, subject of this sketch.

M. Newton Branin was educated in the Huntingdon Valley public school. After leaving school he worked at the painting trade for a short time, but since 1886 has been engaged in his present occupation. He married, in Philadelphia, in October, 1900, Elizabeth Laymond, born January 1, 1870. The couple have one child, Newton Laymond, born July 3, 1901.

Mr. Branin is a member of Eagle Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In politics he is a Republican. His parents in their religious affiliations inclined to the Society of Friends.

 

 

EDWARD TOWILL, the well known florist, of Abington township, is a native of Teignmouth, England, where he was born February 16, 1868. He is the son of Edward and Lena Towill, both natives of England, the former deceased. The son acquired his education in the country of his birth. On leaving school he devoted his attention to floriculture, which he has made his occupation through life. After engaging in that business in London and other cities of England, he decided in 1890 to emigrate to America, and thereupon crossed the Atlantic ocean and located in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, where he has since been very successfully engaged in business as a florist, understanding thoroughly every branch of that business.

In 1893 he erected his present spacious greenhouses in Abington township, near the village of Weldon, and there he has devoted much attention to the production of two varieties of roses, the American Beauty and Liberty, disposing of the flowers in Philadelphia. Florist Towill is a practical and experienced worker in his calling, thoroughly conversant with every detail of the business, although at present giving practically his entire attention to the cultivation of roses. He is well patronized, and his business is extending rapidly, so that he finds it necessary each year to add to his large and well arranged greenhouses. He is an enterprising business man, and is highly esteemed in the community. His attention to business and strict integrity made him many friends.

Mr. Towill married, in London, in May, 1890, Laura Bridger, a native of Sussex, England. They have three children: Edith, Edward and Dorothy.

In politics compromising Mr. Towhill is an earnest and uncompromising Republican, although not an office seeker in any sense of the word. He is too much occupied with his flowers to devote time to politics. He and his family attended the Episcopal Church.

 

 

OSWALD MARKLEY harness man, of Huntingdon Valley, is a native of Moreland township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, the son of George and Henrietta (Shelmire) Markley. He was born March 19, 1868.

George Markley (father), is the son of Henry Markley. He was born in Moreland township, October 16, 1836. He has been a resident of the township all his life. Afterwards of forty year, he followed occupation of harness maker at Huntington Valley, but since 1897 he has lived retired at that place.

He married in Huntington Valley, February 7, 1867, Henrietta W. Shelmire, born July 31, 1845, daughter of George and Sarah (Clayton) Shelmire. Their children: Oswald, subject of this sketch; Laura C., born July 19, 1877, wife of William Lodge; Blanche, born February 11, 1880, wife of Lloyd R. Myers; Horace W., born March 1, 1888.

 

(Page 248)

 

Oswald Markley was educated in the public schools of the neighborhood, and after completing his school studies learned his trade with his father. He was associated in the business with his father for some years, and in 1897 purchased his father's interest. He has since conducted it himself very successfully, and to the entire satisfaction of his patrons, who include many of the wealthy residents of the vicinity, which is largely peopled by citizens of Philadelphia who spend their summers in the country seats that abound in the neighborhood.

Mr. Markley married, October 3, 1893, Mary A. Smith, born October 3, 1870, daughter of Augustus and Sadie (Fell) Smith. They have one son, Kenneth, born December 30, 1900. The parents of Mr. Markley are members of the Baptist church. Mr. and Mrs. Markley attend the Methodist church, and are connected by membership with it.

 

 

(Picture of Isaac Z. Reiner)

 

ISAAC Z. REINER, a prominent farmer of Eagleville, was born at the homestead where he now lives, May 25, 1845, and was reared on the farm and received a common school education. He is the son of Martin and Elizabeth (Zimmerman) Reiner, both of Montgomery county. Martin Reiner (father) lived on his father's farm until he married. He then removed to the farm where Isaac Z. Reiner now resides, called the Birdseye View farm. He did general farming, raised horses and attended market. He was a Whig in politics, and a Mennonite in religious faith.

He married (first wife) Ann Miller, born in Montgomery county, and they had no children. Three years after her death he married Elizabeth Zimmerman (second wife), also of Montgomery county, and the daughter of Arnold and Catharine (Johnson) Zimmerman. Their children: Isaac Zimmerman Reiner, and Sarah, married M. Grater. Mrs. Grater died in the autumn of 1895, and left two daughters, both graduates of the West Chester Normal School, and teachers. After the marriage of his son Isaac, Martin Reiner left him in charge of the old home and removed to another farm. His wife died in March, 1888, and he returned to make his home with his son, but died in October, 1888.

Philip Reiner (grandfather) was born and reared in Lower Providence township, Montgomery county. The ancestor of the Reiner family came from Holland, and settled in Pennsylvania during the colonial days. The father of Philip Reiner bought land from William Penn's agent and improved it, making the home which Philip Reiner inherited by will, and where he reared his family. One of Philip Reiner's grandsons still owns it. He was a Whig, but never aspired to notoriety. He belonged to the Mennonite church, and was a highly respected man. He died in 1865, and his wife in 1871. She was Sarah (Rittenhouse) Reiner, daughter of Mr. Rittenhouse. He was a descendant of William Rittenhouse, who settled at Germantown in 1680.

The children of Philip and Sarah (Rittenhouse) Reiner: Abraham; Martin (father); Rebecca (Mrs. Rambo); Hannah (Mrs. S. Buckwalter); Philip, a farmer; Levi, a farmer; David, a farmer; Emaline (Mrs. M. Rittenhouse), of Germantown; Sarah (Mrs. L. Rhoades). Arnold Zimmerman (maternal grandfather) was a farmer, and operated a grist mill in Montgomery county. In religious faith he was a Mennonite. He married Catharine Johnson, and they had the following children: John, a teacher, who died in the west: Isaac, a farmer; and Elizabeth (mother).

Isaac Z. Reiner lived with his father's family until his marriage in 1869. At that time, as has been said, his father removed to another farm and left Isaac in charge of the old home. After the father's death, Isaac and his sister settled the estate, and Isaac bought out her share in the home farm. He has lived there ever since and given his attention to general farming, in which he has been very successful. He is a Republican, and is affiliated with Montgomery Lodge No. 57, I. O. O. F., of Norristown. He has been a member of the school board of his township for fifteen years, and is its secretary. He has been secretary of the board of trustees of the Providence Presbyterian church since 1884, and elder in the church for ten years. He is president of the Lower Providence Live Stock Insurance Company, has been secretary of the Union Beneficial Society at Eagleville for fourteen years, and is a newspaper correspondent. Mr. Reiner has a knowledge of general things far above the average. He has visited the World's Fair at Chicago and the Exposition at Buffalo, and in 1904 he and his daughter Mary visited the St. Louis exposition, besides visiting interesting places in the United States.

 

(Page 249)

 

Isaac Z. Reiner married Miss Jane Gotwals, born in Montgomery county, January 23, 1843. She is the daughter of Joseph and Anna (Culp) Gotwals, of Montgomery county. The children of Isaac Z and Jane (Gotwals) Reiner: Elizabeth, married Amos H. Schultz, a farmer and school director of Worcester township, and secretary of the Farmers' Union of that township; Joseph, born December 4, 1874, died May 6, 1882; Anna M., unmarried; Clara M., also unmarried. The family are Presbyterians.

The Gotwals family are of German descent, and the name was originally spelled Gotwalds, but was changed by Henry Gotwals (grandfather). Henry Gotwals was a farmer in Upper Providence township, and was a Mennonite. He married Elizabeth Funk, and they had the following children: Adam, Henry, Joseph, Christian, John, Elizabeth and Catharine. Joseph Gotwals (father) was born in Upper Providence township, April 10, 1789. He followed the occupation of farming all his life. He was a strong Democrat, and filled several township offices, school director and supervisor. Late in life he retired from the farm and removed to Eagleville, where he died three years later, April 14, 1871. He was a Mennonite. His wife died in 1881. She was Anna Culp, the daughter of Henry Culp, a prominent farmer.

The children of Henry Culp: Daniel, Henry, Martin, Jacob, John, David, Anna (Mrs. Gotwals); Hettie (Mrs. Barlow); Wilhelmina (Mrs. Boze); Mary (Mrs. S. Jones). The Culp family were all Mennonites.

The children of Joseph and Anna (Culp) Gotwals: Henry, died in infancy; Martin, a farmer, died in Michigan; Margaret (deceased), married Louis Rhodes, of Phoenixville; Esther, died unmarried in 1894; Sarah (deceased), married Jonah L. Fudge; Anna, died unmarried; Elizabeth (deceased), married John B. Horn; Joseph K., for many years superintendent of the Norristown public schools; Isaac, a business man of Bridgeport; Charlotte (deceased), married John Shearer; Roger D., a market man of Fagleville; Jane, married Isaac Z. Reiner.

 

 

SAMUEL E. BRECHT. The Brecht family are of German origin, the father of Samuel E. Brecht, John G. Brecht, having emigrated from Germany to the United States. Conrad Brecht (grandfather) was a resident of Wurtemberg, Germany, being a farmer and silk weaver. Among his children was John G., born on the homestead in that country. He was educated in the schools of the vicinity, coming with his father to the United States to escape being compelled to serve in the army. They located in Hatfield township, Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, where they engaged in farming. John G., on reaching manhood, married Catherine Ernst. They had the following children: Elizabeth, Jacob, Louisa, George, Abraham, Sarah, and Samuel E., subject of this sketch.

Samuel E. Brecht was born on the homestead in Hatfield, on what is now known as the Cowpath road. He was educated in the public schools, and removed with his parents to the state of Ohio, where he remained for a year, and then returned to Pennsylvania, locating for a time in Lancaster county, and later removing to New Britain township, Bucks county. The mother died in Lancaster county. The family removed finally to Franconia township, in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania. Samuel E. Brecht started for himself in the trucking and marketing business. Later he bought a farm and went into the same business with his brother, John E. Brecht, who is now deceased. He then engaged in business as a commission merchant in Philadelphia, and continued that for some time with success.

He married Miss Annie Hallman, daughter of Michael Hallman, of Skippack township, Montgomery county. Later he bought the farm of his father-in-law, and removed to it, conducting the commission and dairy business on a very extensive scale. This he continued for a time, and later he retired and removed to his present home in the borough of Lansdale.

 

(Page 250)

 

Mr. and Mrs. Brecht have the following children: Miriam, married, first, Wilson Bean, who died, and she married several years afterwards, Jacob Garner, they having two children; Annie (deceased) married Edmund Godshalk; and Mary, married Dr. VanHorn.

Samuel E. Brecht is an active Republican. He is a good financier, and has invested his money so as to realize the greatest possible benefit from it. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In religious faith he is a Methodist. He is liberal in his religious views and with his charities. He owns considerable real estate, and has always had good success with such investments. He is much respected by the community. He resides in a beautiful house in Lansdale, and is surrounded with all the comforts of life.

 

 

GEORGE E. CAMPBELL. The Campbells are of Scotch descent, as the name indicates, but the ancestor of George E. Campbell came to this country from Ireland, and settled in Philadelphia county, Pennsylvania.

Joseph (grandfather) was born on the homestead, and died at the age of forty-five years. His wife was Sarah Hall. The couple had six children, as follows: Edward, William, Elizabeth, Mary, Catherine, and Joseph. A remarkable incident in connection with the children of Joseph Campbell is the fact that their family lines are as yet unbroken by death.

Joseph Campbell (father) was born in the city of Philadelphia, where the parents were at that time residing, in 1837. He was educated in public and private schools. On relinquishing school studies he turned his attention to the business of a florist, acquiring a knowledge of it and following that occupation very successfully for a number of years. He now lives retired. He is one of the charter members of the Florists' Club of Philadelphia. He is also treasurer of a building and loan association in that city. He married Mary, daughter of George Warner, of Philadelphia. The couple had the following children Clara, Annie, Charles H., Joseph H., and George Edwin, subject of this sketch.

George Edwin was born in Philadelphia, November 26, 1862. He was educated in the public schools, afterwards acquired a knowledge of the trade of a florist in his father's establishment, and has ever since been engaged in the business. Two years ago he removed to Springfield township, and purchased a tract of land near Flourtown, on which he has a handsome residence and an extensive greenhouse in which he conducts a large and successful business. He married Annie E. Shoemaker, daughter of Dr. D. H. and Alice S. Shoemaker, of Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. Their children are Helen and Dorothy. Mr. Campbell is a Democrat in politics, but has never sought or held office. Fraternally he is a member of the Royal Arcanum. He and his family attend the Episcopal church.