History: 1840: Genealogical Data contained in the Statutes at Large, Commonwealth of PA
************************************************
Copyright. All rights reserved.
http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm
http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/pafiles.htm
************************************************
File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Vi. P. Limric
vi35@localnet.com
************************************************
LAWS OF PENNSYLVANIA GENEALOGICAL DATA
Copyright Vi P. Limric 1998
Source: The Statues at Large of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg PA, 1911
LAWS PASSED SESSION 1840
HARRISBURG, PA.
DAVID R. PORTER, GOVERNOR
WM. HOPKINS, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
W. T. ROGERS, Speaker of the Senate
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania. In General Assembly met and is hereby enacted by the
Athority of the Same.
4. An act to incorporate a Female Academy in McSherrystown, Pa.
That there is hereby established in the county of Adams, a female seminary
for the education of female youths, in the English and other languages, and
in the useful arts, sciences and literature, by the name of St. John the
Baptist. The Trustees are, MATTHEW LEKEU, SAMUEL LILLY, EDWARD REILY, JOSEPH
SNEERINGER, JOHN LILLY, HENRY REILY, and JOSEPH KLUNK. 13 Jan 1840.
7. An Act authorizing ELIE A.F. VALLETTE to change his name to ELLIE AUGUSTUS
F. LAVALLETTE, and family name to Lavallette, instead of Vallette.
That Elie A.F. Vallette, of the county of Philadelphia, be authorized to
change his name to Elie Augustus F. Lavallette and family name from Vallette
to Lavallette: and to do all legal acts effectually as if no change had been
made. 6 Feb 1840
10. An act dividing the township of Moyamensing, in the county of
Philadelphia.
The county shall be divided into four wards. Elections to be held at the
following places. First ward, at the public house occupied by PHILIP
ELEMAN. Second ward, commissioner's hall. Third ward, at the public house
now occupied by JOHN SNYDER. Fourth ward, at the public house now occuppied
by JOHN PASCAL. The election shall be conducted by the following officers:
First ward, Inspectors - DAVID RAMBO, THOMAS SMITH. Judge - JOHN DAVIS.
Second ward: Inspectors - JOSEPH YEAGER, ISAAC SMYTH. Judge - CHARLES
CLARKSON. Third ward: Inspectors - JOHN SNYDER, WILLIAM MOORE. Judge -
EDWARD O'DONNELL. Fourth ward: Inspectors - THOMAS BARNETT, WILLIAM
HEFFNER. Judge - WILLIAM MOUNTAIN.
That the borough of Pottsville, Schuylkill county, is hereby divided into two
separate ward. All that part of the borough, north of Norwegian street to
compose one ward, to be called North Ward, the elections for which to be held
at the public house of NATHANIEL J. MILLS; and the part on the south side of
Norwegian street to be called South Ward, elections to be held at the White
Horse Hotel. 13 Feb 1840.
12. An act to incorporate the Laurel Fire Company of the borough of York.
That ALEXANDER SMALL, ADAM KLINEFELTER, PETER E. WILT, JOHN VOGLESONG,
CHARLES METZEL, WILLIAM EURICH, DANIEL EICHELBERGER, WILLIAM W. REED,
BENJAMIN LANIUS, JAMES GROF, DANIEL IMMEL, DANIEL HARTMAN, ALEXANDER
SPANGLER, HENRY LEHMAN, THEODORE JACOBS, PITNER EMMIT, CHARLES STROMAN,
WILLIAM CLEVER, MORRIS I GARDNER, JOHN KOLB, BENJAMIN UPDEGRAFF, DANIEL
LEHMAN, HENRY RUPP, JOHN WISENALL, HENRY HEARTZOG, SAMUEL DECKER, ISAAC
ELLIOT, HENRY KOCH, GEORGE A. HECKERT, ISRAEL KOLB and BENJAMIN WELKER, are
hereby declared to be one body politic and corporate. The object of this
company shall be the extinguishment of fires, and the relief of their
members, as may suffer by fire. 13 Feb 1840.
14. An act for the relief of DAVID WHITE, and others, soldiers and widows of
soldiers of the Revolutionary and Indian wars.
That the State Treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to David White of
Allegheny county, MICHAEL SPATZ of Berks county, WILLIAM RICE of Philadelphia
county, soldiers, and to ANN HUNTER of Westmoreland county, ELIZABETH WITMAN
of Berks county, and SARAH STURGES of Delaware county, widows of soldiers of
the Revolutionary and Indian wars, forty dollars each, immediately as a
gratuity, and an annuity of forty dollars annually, during life, payable half
yearly, to commence on 1 Jan 1840.
The State Treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to ELIAS BLACK, of Bucks
county, forty dollars immediately in trust, for the use and benefit of JOHN
CALHOUN of the said county, a soldier of the Revolutionary war. The said sum
of forty dollars, granted as a gratuity for military services rendered and are
to be expended in procuring such comforts and necessaries as the circumstances
of the grantee may seem to require.
The State Treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to ELIZABETH HEINDALL of York
county, widow of a soldier of the Revolutionary war, eighty dollars
immediately, as a gratuity and an annuity of forty dollars annually, during
life, payable half yearly, to commence on 1 Jan 1840. and so much of the
second section of an act passed 25 Jun 1839 as grants a gratuity and annuity
to ELIZABETH KENDALL of York county, is hereby repealed.
That so much of the third section of the act passed 21 Jun 1839 as bestows a
pension on JOHN SHRODER of Allegheny county, was and is intended for the
benefit of JOHN SHRODES of the said county and any payment heretofore made to
John Shrodes are hereby ratified and confirmed. 13 Feb 1840.
17. An act to incorporate the town of Horacetown, in Tioga county, into a
borough.
The borough limits are: North west corner of H. FRIZELLE's land, south to
Tioga river, westerly opposite THOMAS INSCHOS and OBADIAH INSCHOS's land,
east to ANSEL BASCOM, westerly to beginning. Voting will be held at house of
S. MOSHER. 19 Feb 1840.
19. An act to incorporate the Trenton City Bridge Company.
That JOHN KIRKBRIDGE, WILLIAM B. CLYMER, SAMUEL STORY, ROBERT P. LOVETT,
EDWARD L. TAYLOR, DANIEL Y. HARMAN, SAMUEL GILKESON, JAMES ERWIN and CYRUS
CADWALLADER of the state of Pa. and ZACHARIAH ROSSEL, CRISPIN BLACKFAN,
THOMAS I. STRYKER, WILLIAM GRANT and JOSHUA WRIGHT of New Jersey, are hereby
appointed commissioners on the part of the this state, who with commissioners
appointed by the state of New Jersey, shall be authorized to receive
subscriptions to the capital stock for a bridge from the intersection of the
Philadelphia road leading from Morrisville to Easton, over the river Delaware
to the city of Trenton. 24 Feb 1840.
21. An act to divide the township of Germantown.
The township of Germantown, county of Philadelphia shall become the upper
ward and lower ward. Elections to be held in the Upper ward at the public
house now occupied by JOSEPH PRICE. The officers to conduct the elections
shall be, Upper ward: Inspectors - JACOB DERR, WILLIAM ROSE. Judge - JACOB
HAAS. The Lower Ward: Inspectors - JOSEPH HANSBERRY, BENJAMIN F. TOPHAM.
Judge - LUKE WILLIAMS. 27 Feb 1840.
23. An act authorizing the Faculty of Pa. College to confer the degree of
Doctor of Medicine.
The trustees of Pa. College at Gettysburg, Pa. have established a Medical
Faculty in the city of Philadelphia, consisting of the following persons:
GEORGE MCCLELLAN, SAMUEL GEORGE MORTON, WILLIAM RUSH, SAMUEL COLHOUN, SAMUEL
MCCLELLAN, WALTER R. JOHNSON, for the purpose of qualifying their pupils and
others for the degree of Doctor of Medicine. 6 Mar 1840.
25. An act relative to elections of various counties.
The borough of Saltzburg, Indiana county, is hereby erected and formed into a
separate election district and CHARLES CARROLTON, WILLIAM DICKEY, and JOHN
GUTHRIE shall hold the first election. 7 Mar 1840.
28. An act erecting the borough of West Greenville and the twp. of West Salem
into separate election districts and for other purposes.
The general election shall be held in the public house of SAMUEL S. SPIER in
West Greenville, Mercer county.
That part of Pinegrove twp. Schuylkill county, bounded by a farm owned by
CHRISTOPHER SHRAFE, west of the farms of CHRISTOPHER SHROPE, JOHN BROWN,
PHILIP ZIMMERMAN and JONATHAN CHRIST, south along farm of WILLIAM MILLER,
across the Swatara creek, and east of the farm of GEORGE BERGER, dec. then
along the farms of MICHAEL HUBER, FREDERICK MUTH and NICHOLAS HIRTZOG will be
called Strongsburg and North Pinegrove school district. HENRY K. STRONG, JOHN
BOAITZ, and HENRY SHOPE will conduct the elections. The directors shall meet
at the house of HENRY UMBAHACKER.
The qualified electors of Valley twp. in Columbia county, shall hold
elections near the public house of JOHN M. MAUS, and COLLAN CAMERON, JOSEPH
MAUS and JAMES CHILDS are to hold the elections.
The electors of Perry Twp., Fayette county, shall hold elections and JOHN
STRICKLER, MICHAEL LEATON and PIERSON COPE are appointed to hold them.
The township of Penn, Perry county, shall be a separate election district and
held in the town of Petersburg with THOMAS BLACK, JOHN B. TOPLEY, and JOHN
KIZER authorized to hold them.
That part of Strasburg Twp., Lancaster county, bounded thus: opposite MICHAEL
MUSSLEMAN's still house, to the road along lands of PHILIP FORSTER ESQ.,
JOSEPH LEFEVER and others etc. shall constitute a new election district with
elections being held at the public house now occupied by JAMES H. SLAYMAKER
in Williamstown.
That the qualified voters in Wheatfield twp., Perry county, shall hold
general and township elections at Clay's school house by BENJAMIN OWEN and
ELIAS JACKSON, and ROBERT S. KING. 7 Mar 1840.
29. An act to classify the Associate Judges of the State.
That JOSEPH S. MORRISON in the room of JOHN DICKEY; SAMUEL YOHE, in the room
of DANIEL WAGENER; ALEXANDER BROWN, JOHN PARKER, JAMES BOVARD, THOMAS M'KEE,
RICHARD IRWIN, in the room of JOHN IRWIN; JOHN VINCENT, BOYD MERCER, RICHARD
LEWIS, in the room of GEORGE ROBERTS; JOHN KERR in the room of JOSEPH MCCUNE;
GEORGE ROUSH, SAMUEL D. LEIB in the room of DANIEL YOST; IRA KILBURN, HUGH
DAVIS in the room of FRANCIS MCCLURE; JOHN MCKEAN, GEORGE BARNITZ, DAVIS
DIMMOCK, HUGH WILSON, JOHN MONTGOMERY in the room of JACOB GEARHART; DANIEL
W. DINGMAN, WILLIAM MONTGOMERY, JOHN F. RHUE JR. in the room of JOHN FOGEL;
MOSES THOMAS and LEONARD RUPERT shall constitute the first class, whose
commissions shall expire on the 27 Feb 1840.
That JONATHAN STEVENS, WILLIAM HAYS, in the room JAMES RIDDLE; JOHN L.
HINKLE, ISAAC M'KINNEY, ISAAC CONNELLY, SAMUEL DALE, JOHN GRUBB, HENRY BLACK,
ADAM LIGHT, JOHN LOBENGIER, THOMAS POLLOCK, CHARLES PORTER, JOHN CUMMINGS,
JOHN LIGHTNER, RICHARD B. JONES, JOHN KURTZ, WILLIAM M'CLEAN, JOSEPH SEAGER
in the room of JACOB STINE; ASHER DAVIDSON, WILLIAM LONG, THOMAS JONES, in
the room of CROMWELL PEARCE; MOSES BOGGS, JOHN MURRAY, HUGH JORDAN, JOSEPH
ADAMS, JOSEPH OTTO, and JOSEPH POTTS, who shall constitute the second class,
whose commissions shall expire on 27 Feb 1841.
That JOEL BISHOP, JOSEPH ENGLE, JESSE SHARP, JACOB KRYDER, SAMUEL NIXON,
WILLIAM MCCAY in the room of DAVID REYNOLDS; WILLIAM S. ROSS, JOHN CALHOUN in
the room of JOSEPH RANKIN; MATTHIAS RICHARDS, WILLIAM ADAMS in the room of
WILLIAM DARLING; JOHN W. JENKS, CHARLES D. SHOEMAKER, MATTHEW PATTON, SAMUEL
MOORHEAD JR., STEPHEN BARLOW, PETER SCHALL, JOHN H. WORK, BENJAMIN KEPNER,
DANIEL CHRISTY, JOHN C. BUCHER in the room of INNIS GREEN; JOHN JUNKIN, JOHN
RYAN JR., JAMES MANNING, CHARLES G. SNOWDEN in the room of ROBERT ORR; ASA
MCCLELLAND and BENJAMIN ADAMS shall constitute the third class, whose
commissions shall expire on 27 Feb 1842.
That GEORGE WEISER, TIMOTHY IVES JR., SENECA FREEMAN, JOHN SHINDLE, JOHN
STERRETT, OBED EDSON, JOHN LEFEVER, ADAM WEISE, ROBERT ELLIOTT, ROBERT
MITCHEL, JACOB BROWN, JOHN T. BELL, WILLIAM BRODHEAD, GEORGE SMITH, ROBERT
SMITH, SAMUEL BLACK, JOHN NESBETT, FREDERICK HUMMEL, GEORGE WILL, ANDREW
BARNET, JOSEPH ROYER, THOMAS MCKEEVER, ISAAC POST, JAMES CRISWELL, JAMES R.
WICK and MICHAEL H. JENKS, shall constitute the fourth class, whose
commissions shall expire on the 27 Feb 1843. 7 Mar 1840.
33. A supplement to an act passed 24 Jun 1839.
Whereas, the executors of the last will and testament of JERED SHATTUCK, late
of Meadville, Crawford county, dec. were authorized to execute deeds to the
purchasers for all lands sold by articles of agreement by Jered, in his
lifetime, therefore, STEPHEN BARLOW and WILLIAM P. SHATTUCK, executors, are
hereby authorized to sell any part of the lands of the deceased remaining
undisposed of and to execute deeds to the purchaser. 7 Mar 1840.
35. An act to incorporate the Gibson Academy at Summitville, in the township
of Gibson, Susquehanna county.
There shall be established an academy for the education of youth in the
English and other languages, and in the useful arts and sciences and
literature by the name of Gibson academy, under the care of the trustees;
JOSEPH WASHBURN, CHARLES TINGLEY, URBAN BURROWES, MILTON TINGLEY, WILLIAM
PARMETER and N.E. KENNEDY. 7 Mar 1840.
36. An act to incorporate the town of Newport, in the county of Perry, into a Borough.
That the town of Newport, Perry county, boundaries are: Little Buffalo creek,
through the lands of ABRAHAM RIDER, to land of JOHN FICKES, thence by lands of
JACOB NAILOR, thence by lands of LAUDON and MONROE. The first election shall
be the duty of JOHN KIBLER, GEORGE CARPENTER and JOHN K. SMITH. 10 Mar 1840.
37. An act to incorporate the First Baptist Church of Newtown twp. in the
county of Delaware.
That the members are hereby created into one body politic and corporate.
That ANDREW ALEXANDER, DAVID ALEXANDER, JACOB GREEN, WILLIAM P. HIBBED and
THOMAS DANIEL be trustees to continue in office for one year. 10 Mar 1840.
38. An act to incorporate the Crispin Cemetery, in the county of Philadelphia.
That BENJAMIN CRISPIN, PAUL CRISPIN, ROBERT C. GREEN, THOMAS CREIGHTON and
JAMES A. CREIGHTON are hereby declared one body politic and corporate, a
burial ground in the township of Lower Dublin, in the county of
Philadelphia. 10 Mar 1840.
39. An act to establish the Juliet Academy and School for Teachers in the
county of Erie.
There is hereby established an academy for the instruction of youth in the
useful arts, sciences and literature in the English and other languages,
under the care of trustees. DAVID B. JACKSON, GEORGE STUNTZ and JAMES P.
PAUL are hereby appointed trustees until their successors be elected. 10 Mar 1840.
40. An act to provide for the erection of a House for the employment and
support of the Poor, in the county of Greene.
That JOHN ROGERS of Centre Twp., ISAAC BURSON of Cumberland twp., BENJAMIN
JENNINGS of Marion twp., are hereby appointed commissioners. 10 Mar 1840.
42. An supplement for the erection of public buildings in Clarion County.
GEORGE P. HAMILTON, LINDSAY C. PRITNER, and ROBERT POTTER all of the county
of Clarion were appointed commissioners, and now are authorized to sell and
convey property. 11 Mar 1840.
43. An act to incorporate the English Evangelical Lutheran Church, in the
city of Pittsburg.
That the vestry of the church shall be thirteen in number, consisting of the
pastor, three trustees, three elders, and six wardens; REV. JOHN M'CRON;
paster, CHRISTOPHER LENHART, GEORGE HUBLEY and JOHN R. HERSCH, trustees;
GEORGE WEYMAN, F.A. HEISELEY, and CHARLES GEISENHEINER, elders; WILLIAM J.
ANSHUTZ, JEREMIAH RITZ, HENRY W. CAUFMAN, MICHAEL EGOLF, SAMUEL COOK, and
GEORGE ROYER, wardens. 11 Mar 1840.
51. An act to authorize JOHN WHITE, EDWARD SMITH, and ANDREW M'CLURE, to
convey certain real estate.
That John White and ELIZABETH WHITE, his wife, Edward Smith and CATHARINE
SMITH his wife, and Andrew McClure and HARRIET MCCLURE, his wife; the said
Elizabeth, Catharine and Harriet being the daughters and devisees of ROBERT
JAMES, late of Washington County, dec. are hereby authorized to make and
execute a deed of conveyance, transferring a certain tract of land
containing 201 acres, in Washington county, and being the same tract which
Robert James, by his last will and testament recorded in said county, devised
to Elizabeth, Catharine and Harriet. 13 Mar 1840.
53. An act to improve the navigation of the Lehigh river, in the counties of
Monroe and Luzerne.
"The Upper Lehigh Navigation Company" is hereby created a body politic and
corporate and CHARLES TRUMP, MILLER HORTON, JOHN S. COMFORT, WILLIAM P.
CLARK, HENRY W. DRINKER, LEWIS S. CORYELL and LORD BUTLER are hereby
appointed commissioners. 14 Mar 1840.
54. An act to confirm the sale of certain real estate in York county, and to
vest certain authorities in JOHN D. THOMAS, trusee of SOPHIA H.E. ASH.
Whereas, JACOB WILT, of the borough and county of York, lately died seized of
a certain house and half lot in said borough, situate on George Street,
bounded by JOHN MOSEY and HENRY ERNST; having first made his last will and
testament constituting JAMES R. REILY as his executor. Whereas James R.
Reily has sold the said premises for the payment of debts due by the testator
to JACOB PFLEIGER without authority under the will and without any application
to the orphans' court. The orphans' court is hereby authorized to decree the
confirmation of the sale and to authorize a conveyance to the purchaser.
That John D. Thomas, trustee of Sophia H.E. Ash, duly appointed by the court
of common pleas of Philadelphia county, in the place of HOSEA J. LEVIS
dismissed, is hereby vested with the same powers and authorities as were
vested in Hosea J. Levis by the third section of an act empowering the
orphans' court to make partition of real estate among the devisees of FRANCIS
GURNEY passed 14 Mar 1837 and to invest the proceeds of any sale upon real
security. 17 Mar 1840
55. An act to incorporate a company, to make a turnpike road from the borough
of Honesdale, in Wayne county, to intersect the Milford and Owego turnpike, at
or near the house of WILLIAM R. M'LAURY.
That William R. McLaury, THOMAS H.R. TRACY, LUCIUS COLLINS, AARON WRITER, and
THOMAS J. HUBBELL of Wayne county are hereby appointed commissioners. 17 Mar 1840.
57. An act authorizing JACOB REINHART to erect a wing dam in the Susquehanna
river.
That Jacob Reinhart is hereby authorized to construct or erect a wing dam, in
the river Susquehanna, township of Susquehanna, Dauphin county, extending from
the Cumberland county shore at or near his saw mill about 100 yards into the
river, provided the navigation of said river shall not be impeded or
obstructed by the same. 17 Mar 1840.
60. An act to authorize DAVID WALTON and BENJAMIN SWAYNE, assignees of CALEB
SWAYNE, to convey certain real estate.
Whereas Caleb Swayne and PHILENA SWAYNE his wife, by their voluntary deed of
assignment, bearing date of 16 Sep 1839 assigned and transferred all their
estate, real and personal, to David Walton, Benjamin Swayne and REUBEN PUSEY,
in trust for the benefit of the creditors of Caleb. Whereas Reuben Pusey has
himself made an assignment of all his property for the benefit of his
creditors and removed to Texas or elsewhere, beyond the limits of the United
States. David Walton and Benjamin Swayne are hereby authorized to make, sign
and deliver a deed of conveyance for all the real estate of Caleb and Philena
and preform all acts necessary in as full and ample a manner with the same
effect as if all the assignees named had joined in the act. 18 Mar 1840
65. An act to incorporate the Edgeworth Ladies Seminary in the the township
of Ohio in the county of Allegheny.
The trustees of the seminary shall consist of the following persons: H.
DENNY, J. KERR, ___ HERRON, DOCTOR DIXON, JAMES OLIVER, are declared to be a
body politic and corporate. 18 Mar 1840.
66. An act to incorporate an academy in West Alexander, in the county of
Washington.
ALEXANDER FRAZIER, GEORGE MCDONALD, JOHN POLLOCK, ISAAC SUTHERLAND, KENETH
MCCOY, JOHN MCDONALD, and JOHN MCCOY are hereby appointed a board of trustees
of the corporation. 18 Mar 1840.
68. An act to incorporate the Presbyterian Church of Bedford.
The trustees of the church and congregation in Bedford Twp., Bedford county,
shall consist of HENRY LEADER, JOHN G. MARTIN and DANIEL WASHABAUGH.
18 Mar 1840.
69. An act incorporating the First Methodist Episcopal Church, in the city of
Lancaster.
The business of the congregation shall be conducted by nine trustees, PHILIP
BENEDICT, BONOM SAMSON, GEORGE B. KERFOOT, ROBERT W. BURROWES, DAVID PAUL
BROWN, NATHANIEL S. PINKERTON, LEVI J. RHOADS, JAMES B. MOORE, and CHARLES
HARTLEY. 18 Mar 1840.
71. An act to confer on SAMUEL KEIPER the rights and benefits of a child born
in lawful wedlock.
That Samuel Keiper of Hanover Township, son of ABRAHAM KEIPER and CATHARINE
KEIPER in the county of Lehigh, shall have and enjoy all the rights and
advantages of a child born in lawful wedlock to all intents and purposes as
if he had been born in lawful wedlock. 18 Mar 1840.
80. An act to incorporate the Citizens' Mutual Insurence Company, of
Pennsylvania.
That ROBERT A. PARRISH, ROBERT E. JONES, MARK RICHARDS, JACOB BROOM, of
Dauphin, JAMES P. PARK, WILLIAM S. TORR, BENJAMIN CRISPIN of Philadelphia
county, JAMES TWADDELL, CHARLES DULL, DANIEL CLARK, JONATHAN SHOEMAKER are
hereby made a corporation. 20 Mar 1840.
81. An act to incorporate the Lycoming county Mutual Insurance company.
That JACOB HAINES, BENJAMIN JONES, ROBERT WILSON, EDWARD LYON, GERSHOM
BIDDLE, PETER SHOEMAKER, SAMUEL ROGERS, JAMES RANKEN, JOHN J. CRAUSE, JOSHUA
BOWMAN, WILLIAM A. PETRIKEN, COWDEN S. WALLIS, JACOB DAVISON and JACOB POTT
shall be a corporation for the purpose of insuring their respective dwelling
houses, manufactories, mills, merchandize, stores, shops and other buildings,
household furniture and other property, against loss or damage by fire. 20
Mar 1840.
83. An act changing the names of EDWARD SMITH and ISAAC HANDY SMITH, to
EDWARD SMITH HANDY and ISAAC SMITH HANDY.
That Edward Smith and Isaac Handy Smith, both of the city of Philadelphia,
sons of ISAAC P. SMITH of Snow Hill, Worcester county, in the state of
Maryland, are hereby authorized to change thier respective names to Edward
Smith Handy and Isaac Smith Handy. 20 Mar 1840.
86. An act for the relief of JOHN BROWN and others, soldiers and widows of
soldiers of the revolutionary and Indian wars.
That the State Treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to John Brown of Mercer
county, PETER SWESEY of Beaver county, GEORGE WHITE of Monroe county, OLIVER
WATSON of Lancaster county, and AZARIAH DAVIS of Fayette county, soldiers,
and SARAH NEWBERRY of Northumberland county, RACHAEL STEINROD of Greene
county, SARAH TRUAX of Bedford county, MARY MAY of Fayette county, MARY
GRUBER of Luzerne county, BARBARA BANKERS of Lancaster county, MARTHA
MORRISON of Venango county, and SUSANNA WILLIAMS of Bucks county, widows of
soldiers of the Revolutionary and Indian wars, forty dollars each during
life, to be paid half yearly, commencing on 1 Jan 1840.
That the State Treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to JAMES JOHNSON and
JAMES ROBISON of Beaver county, forty dollars, immediately as a gratuity in
full for military services, rendered by them in the Revolutionary and Indian
wars. 21 Mar 1840.
87. An act to provide for the erection of a house for the employment and
support of the poor of the county of Lehigh.
That SOLOMON GANGWARE of Allentown, THOMAS KERN of North Whitehall, JACOB
BAST of Hanover, GEORGE MILLER of Millerstown, WILLIAM HITTEL of Upper
Milford, JOHN S. KISTLER of Lynn, JACOB GAGENBACH Upper Macungie, ABRAHAM
SHAFFER Upper Saucon, MICHAEL HARTER of Heidelberg, JOHN RITER, Salisbury,
JOSHUA SEIBERLING, Weisenburg, ANDREW SHIFFERSTINE, Lowhill, DANIEL NEWHARD,
South Whitehall Twp. are hereby appointed commissioners. 21 Mar 1840.
89. An act to incorporate the Pottstown Female Seminary, Montgomery county.
DR. DAAVID M. FORT, REV. HENRY S. MILLER, JACOB S. YOST, HENRY POTTS, JOHN P.
RUTTER, GEO. RICHARDS, N.P. HOBART, THOMAS JEFFERSON GROSS and CHARLES H. CLAY
are hereby appointed trustees. 23 Mar 1840.
92. An act to incorporate the Annville Academy in the county of Lebanon, the
town of Annville.
JOHN G. MARSHALL, CYRUS CARMONEY, JOHN TROXALL, HENRY SIEGREST, DANIEL
STRUBHOUR and JOHN EBY are hereby appointed trustees of said corporation.
28 Mar 1840.
93. An act to alter and amend the act incorporating the society of Equal
Rights of Carlisle, Pa.
That ROBERT CAMERON, ABRAHAM HENDEL, SAMUEL MYERS, JASON W. EBY, GEORGE W.
CRABB, JOHN HAMILTON, GEORGE SANDERSON, WILLIAM M. PORTER and HENRY ANDERSON
the present trustees are hereby declared trustees of said institute. 28 Mar 1840.
94. An act authorizing a review of part of the Emlinton and Centreville state
road and other purposes.
That BENJAMIN LOWE, JOHN MURRIN and JOHN BLACK of Butler county, are hereby
appointed commissioners
That JOHN MONTGOMERY, THOMAS WOOD, DANIEL BUCK of Lycoming county, and
MICHAEL REDER, PHILIP DIMM of Northumberland county, are hereby appointed
commissioners to view, lay out, and mark a state road from ABSOLAM LEWIS' in
Lycoming county, to LEONARD ROUB's in Northumberland county.
That SAMUEL IRWIN, JAMES KELTON, ABRAHAM HAMOR, HARLAN GAUSE, and GEORGE
GAWTHROP, commissioners appointed by the act passed 14 Apr 1838, to direct
the grading of a certain state road in the county of Chester.
97. An act to incorporate the Adams County Mutual Insurance Company.
That THADDEUS STEVENS, WILLIAM M'CLELLAN, MICHAEL C. CLARKSON, JOHN F.
M'FARLANE, JAMES D. PAXTON, SAMUEL H. BUEHLER, HENRY SHRIVER, JOSEPH A. SHORB
and GEORGE SMYSER, are hereby appointed commissioners and shall open a book in
the borough of Gettysburg, and also in the town of Littletown. 31 Mar 1840.
98. An act appointing commissioners to lay out a state road from Emlinton, in
Venango county, to Callensburg in Armstrong county.
That JOHN L. PORTER, CHARLES H. HAAS, JAMES F. AGNEW and HENRY ALEXANDER are
hereby appointed commissioners to view and locate a road. 1 Apr 1840.
100. An act to enable SAMUEL MURDOCK, ISAAC REEVES and JOHN BLACK to connect
Hog Island in the county of Delaware, with the main land.
That Samuel Murdock, Isaac Reeves, and John Black, are hereby authorized to
connect Hog Island, in the river Delaware, in the county of Delaware, with
the main land at the termination and in a line with the road called the Hog
Island road, by th erection of a free bridge, built upon posts or abutments,
provided an aperture of not less than 25 feet in width, and of height not
less than eight feet above high water mark, shall be left in said in said
bridge over the main channel of the stream, which aperture shall at all times
be kept free from obstructions, so as to admit the passage of shallops and
other craft of suitable dimensions. 1 Apr 1840.
101. An act to annul the marriage contract of WILLIAM DRAYTON, and ANNE
DRAYTON, his wife.
That the marriage contract entered into by William Drayton and Anne his wife,
late ANNE BRIGGS, is hereby annulled and made void, and said parties released
from all duties and obligations as fully as if they had never been joined in
marriage. 1 Apr 1840.
102. An act to incorporate the Independent Church of Gettysburg, Adams county.
That the members are hereby created into one body politic and corporate. The
trustees shall be six in number: JOHN BROWN, SAMUEL S. M'CREARY, WILLIAM
YOUNG, ALEXANDER CALDWELL, WILLIAM THOMPSON, and ROBERT CONOVER. 31 Mar 1840.
103. An act to incorporate a company in the borough of Bedford, to be called
the United States Fire company of Bedford.
That LEWIS W. SMITH, GEORGE D. SHUCK, JOHN H. HOFIUS JR., JOHN MOWER, SOLOMON
FILLER, ALEXANDER KING, JOHN FUNK, JOSEPH OTTINGER, JOSEPH FILLER, WILLIAM C.
LOGAN, B.F. MANN, JAMES REAMER and S.L. RUSSELL are hereby created and
declared to be one body politic and corporate. 3 Apr 1840.
104. An act to incorporate the Hellertown Company for the insurance of the
lives of horses, and the detection of horse thieves.
SAMUEL HESS, JOSEPH RIEGEL, JACOB WAGNER, ISAAC OTT, JOHN M. RIEGEL, JOSEPH
HESS, JOSEPH EHRHART, JACOB LERCH, ISAAC BOYER, RICHARD FREEMAN, DAVID LERCH,
GEORGE ROTH, JOHN WOODRING shall be directors of said company, with power to
transact all business enjoined upon them. 3 Apr 1840.
106. A supplement concerning settlement of accounts.
That the time fixed for the settlement of the accounts of ALMOND WOODCOCK,
CHARLES LYMAN, and JOHN TAGGART, commissioners appointed by the act dated 14
Apr 1838 for the East and West road in Potter county be extended to the 1 Dec
1840. 3 Apr 1840.
108. An act to incorporate the St. Paul's Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum of the
city of Pittsburg.
Until the first election of managers under this act and until others are
elected in their stead, the board shall consist of JOHN O'REILLY, president,
and MICHAEL TIERNAN, JOHN ANDOE, LUKE TAFFE, MICHAEL M'COLLOUGH, HUGH TONER,
JOHN T. CONNOLLY, JOSEPH O'BRIEN, BERNARD PERRY, JOHN FARRAN, JACOB M'DEVIT
and MICHAEL M'CLOSKEY, managers, who are hereby authorized to carry into
effect all the powers and privileges granted to said corporation. 3 Apr 1840.
117. An act to incorporate the Lehigh Company for the Insurance of the lives
of horses and the detection of horse thieves.
SAMUEL CHRIST, MARTIN RITTER, JACOB KECK, WILLIAM DEHL, ANDREW HOFFERT, JACOB
JACOBY, ABRAHAM RAHN, JOHN MYER, SOLOMON UBERROTH shall be directors of said
company. 8 Apr 1840.
118. An act for the relief of AARON WRIGHT and others, soldiers and widows of
soldiers of the revolutionary and Indian wars.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to Aaron Wright and
SUSANNA MELLON of Berks county, LEWIS HARPLE and CHRISTIANA KEEN of Chester
county, GARRET MCQUILLEN of Huntingdon county, CONRAD KRISS of Lycoming
county, DANIEL MELARKEY of Butler county, JOHN WEISHANTZ, CHRISTIAN MILLER
and ANN M. SYPE of York county, RACHAEL TENANT of Harford county, Maryland,
ELIZABETH KEESY and ELIZABETH WENTZEL of Montgomery county, SARAH SMITH of
Armstrong county, SARAH DILLON and ELEANOR GILCHRIST of Westmoreland county,
ELIZABETH ROHRER of Lebanon county, and MARY DOHRMAN of Union county, soldiers
and widows of soldiers of the Revolutionary and Indian wars, forty dollars to
each, immediately, as a gratuity and an annuity of forty dollars each during
life, payable half yearly, to commence on the 1 Jan 1840.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to HUGH TARRANCE of
Montgomery county forty dollars immediately as a gratuity in full for
military services rendered by him during the revolutionary war.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to MARY DEWOODDY of
Venango county forty dollars immediately as a compensation for nursing and
burying her father WILLIAM LYON, late of the county of Venango, dec. and in
lieu of a gratuity of forty dollars granted to William Lyon for military
services by the act dated 13 Mar 1839.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to ABRAHAM NEWHARD of
Lehigh county, forty dollars immediately as a gratuity and an annuity of
forty dollars during the life of CATHARINE DEILY, payable half yearly, to
commence on 1 Jan 1840; said money paid to Abraham Newhard, in trust, for the
use, benefit and behalf of Catharine Deily, to be by him expended in
furnishing and procuring the necessaries and comforts of life for her.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to such person who shall
have attended to and taken care of any soldier or widow of a soldier of the
Revolutionary and Indian wars, who was a recipient of a pension from the
commonwealth, during their last illness, and administered to their wants and
necessities and defrayed the expense of their funeral, such sum as may be due
to the pensioner at the time of his or her decease, upon proof being made by
the affidavit of two respectable citizens, personally acquainted with the
facts, made before a justice of the peace in the neighborhood, without
requiring letters of administration to be taken on the estate of such
deceased pensioner.
That the pension and gratuity allowed to BARBARA BANKERS of Lancaster county,
by the act dated 21 Mar 1840, is hereby repealed; and the state treasurer is
hereby authorized to pay to Barbara Bankers of Lancaster county, the widow of
a soldier of the revolutionary war the sum of forty dollars, immediately as a
gratuity and an annuity of forty dollars during life, to be paid half yearly,
commencing on 1 Jan 1840.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to GEORGE LUCAS, of
Cambria county, JOHN HARTMAN, Columbia county, SAMUEL MCELHOES, Mifflin
county, PHILIP TRANSUE, Monroe county, ADAM GENSEL, Columbia county, HARDY
RUNDLES, CHRISTOPHER STEALY, Allegheny county, MARTIN ARNER, Luzerne county,
soldiers, and ELEANOR DIXON, Fayette county, SUSANNAH SPEIGLE, York county,
ELIZABETH LEIBLEY, Lancaster county, JANE HOLMES, Franklin county, MARGARET
ROSS, Washington county, ANN MARIA KEEFER and ELIZABETH DUCK, Dauphin county,
ANN POSTENS, Monroe county, ELIZABETH MCEWEN, Centre County, widows of
soldiers of the Revolutionary and Indian wars, forty dollars each
immediately, as a gratuity, and an annuity of forty dollars each during life
to be paid half yearly, commencing on 1 Jan 1840.
The state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay JOHN FORSTER and JOHN
CULBERTSON of Crawford county, JOHN EATON of Armstrong county, forty dollars
immediately, as a gratuity, in full for military services rendered by them in
the Revolutionary and Indian wars. 8 Apr 1840.
119. An act to incorporate the First Universalist Church of the city of
Pittsburg.
That MANNING HULL, EPHRAIM FRISBEE, JOSEPH FRISBEE, JACOB MILLINGER, HENRY
HARTMAN, JOHN HARTMAN, WILLIAM MILLER, OTIS YOUNG, WILLIAM WARD, SAMUEL
HARTMAN, ROBERT CHRISTY, DAVID JENKINS, AMOS D. FRISBEE, CHARLES FRISBEE,
JAMES SPRATLEY SEN., J.S. BISBURY, W.C. ANDERSON, WASHINGTON IRWIN, JOHN
NELSON, J. VARDIE are hereby created and erected into a body politic and
corporate. 8 Apr 1840.
120. An act to authorize CAROLINE STOCKER, widow of JOHN CLEMENTS STOCKER,
deceased, to sell and convey certain real estate.
That is shall be lawful for Caroline Stocker, widow of John Clements Stocker,
the younger, dec. upon giving security to the Orphan's Court of Philadelphia
to sell and dispose of a certain three story brick messuage and lot situate
on south side of Prune St. between Delaware Fourth and Fifth Sts. in the city
of Philadelphia, and also a brick messuage and lot situate at the south east
corner of Fourth and Tammany sts. as if they were vested in herself,
individually and the proceeds from the sale to be invested under the
direction of the Orphans' Court and the interest and income of the moneys
invested shall be recieved by Caroline during her life and the principal
after her decease shall go and descend according to the provisions of the
last will and testament of John Clemants Stocker the younger. 8 Apr 1840.
121. An act to incorporate the Bernville Academy of Berks county.
That the academy hereby incorporated shall be under the management, direction
and government of the present stockholders: MICHAEL K. BOYER, JOHN HAAG, JACOB
KAUFMAN, WILLIAM RUNKLE, JOHN POTTEIGER, M. HERPEL, G. MENNIG, GEORGE BYERLE,
A.A. MCDONOUGH, JONATHAN MILLER, DAVID RENNO, FREDERICK BYERLE, HENRY
WITTMAN, DANIEL SPANGLER, JOHN YEAGER, JOHN GEISS. 8 Apr 1840.
122. An act to incorporate the Wysox Academy, in the county of Bedford.
HARRY MORGAN, WILLIAM MYER, JOSEPH M. PIOLLETT, DANIEL COOLBAUGH, and DAVID
H. OWEN are appointed trustees of said corporation. 8 Apr 1840.
125. An act to authorize the trustees created by the last will and testament
of JOHN DONAUGHEY, deceased, to invest the moneys belonging to the estate of
the decedent, and for other purposes.
That LANE SCHOFIELD and DENNIS SWEENY, the trustees created by the last will
and testament of John Donaughey, late of Washington county, dec. are hereby
authorized to invest the moneys which they received in the purchase of real
estate, or in ground rents or mortgages issuing out of or secured by real
estate, or in public stocks for the same use and for the same trusts as are
created by the will, for the benefit of those interested under the will.
Whereas, REUBEN HAINES, late of Germantown, in the county of Philadelphia,
dec. was seized of a certain lot of ground situate at the south west corner
of Marshall and Parish St., in the district of Spring Garden which by the
will of Reuben Haines, vested in the children of Reuben Haines, some of whom
are minors under the age of 21 years; also that it would be in the interest
of the children if an exchange could be affected of certain portions and
parts of the adjoining land.
That JANE B. HAINES, DANIEL B. SMITH, and JAMES P. PARKE, surviving guardians
of the minor children named in the will are hereby authorized on behalf of the
minors to contract for, make and execute with the owners of the land adjoining
the lot, an exchange of such part as in their judgemnet may be for the
advantage of the minors and on part of the minors to make and execute and
deliver all deeds necessary which will have the same force and effect as if
the minors had been of full age, and had themselves executed deeds for the same.
That SARAH CHAMBERS, guardian of JAMES S. CHAMBERS, minor son of WILLIAM
CHAMBERS, late of York county, dec. and she is hereby authorized to sell and
convey all the right and title of James S. Chambers, to a lot, situate in
Middlesex, in the township of North Middleton, in the county of Cumberland,
bounded by Letart Spring on the lands of CHARLES B. PENROSE and the heirs of
GEORGE BLANEY, dec. and by the mill race of Charles B. Penrose and the said
heirs leading to the fulling and plaster mills at Middlesex, containing 3 acres.
That GEORGE PASSMORE, guardian of JESSE BOND and ELIZABETH ANN BOND, minor
children of CHARLES and ELIZABETH BOND, of the county of Washington Pa. is
hereby authorized to make and execute a deed of conveyance to JOHN WORREL,
for a tract of land, situate in the county of Washington, for all the
interest his wards have in the tract of land containing 68 acres, agreeably
to the provisions and conditions of an article of agreement entered into by
Elizabeth Bond, dec. mother of said wards, in conjunction with her husband
Charles Bond on 12 Apr 1836 for the sale of the tract of land to John Worrel.
That the administrators of JAMES HANNA, dec. late of the state of Ohio, are
hereby authorized to make and execute a deed of conveyance to TEMPERANCE DAY
and GEORGE W. DAY, agreeably to the terms of an article entered into 15 Feb
1833, between James Hanna and Temperance and George Day, for a tract of land
in Morris Twp., Washington Co. Pa. adjoining lands of JONATHAN HOYDEN, GEORGE
BAIRD, and others, containing 95 acres.
That it shall be the duty of the Orphans' Court of Chester county and is
hereby authorized to appoint someone as trustee to act for MARY DAVIS, wife
of CHARLES J. DAVIS of Chester county, and whenever Charles Davis shall
contract for the sale of any real estate, it shall be the duty of the trustee
to examine the same, and if in the interest of Mary Davis he shall assent to
such contract in writing, upon any deed, and the deeds so made shall vest the
estate as fully as if Mary Davis were competent to execute the same.
Whereas HENRY STOVER and PETER ZORGER, the committee of the person and estate
of JOHN JACOBY, of Conewago Twp. York county, an habitual drunkard, have
represented that they have filed and settled an account of their trust which
exhibits a balance of $424.40 which would be to the interest and benefit of
John Jacoby and his wife and children should be invested in real estate for
the use of himself and family. Therefore Henry Stover and Peter Zorger are
hereby authorized to invest the sum and to take and receive a deed of
conveyance to the said John Jacoby and his heirs, vesting the same to John
Jacoby and his heirs. 8 Apr 1840.
126. An act to amend an act, entitled an act to authorize the administrators
of HENRY MINEUM, late of Crawford county, deceased, to sell and convey
certain real estate, and for other purposes, passed the 2 Jul 1839.
That the administrators named in the first section of the act to which this
is an amendment, are hereby authorized to make and execute a deed of
conveyance to SAMUEL PEIFER, of Crawford County for the lot mentioned in the
second section of the act and the part of the act that authorized a deed to
SAMUEL KEIFER is repealed.
That the trustees of that part of the real estate of CHARLES WHARTON, late of
the city of Philadelphia, dec. devised by him in trust, for the use of his
late daughter SARAH R. CRAIG, dec. her husband and children shall have power
to grant and convey, during the natural life of WILLIAM CRAIG, the surviving
husband of Sarah R. Craig, any of the lots of ground as devised, to any
persons, reserving a perpetual annual rent, payable half yearly, and
redeemable or extinguishable within any number of years, not less then ten,
by the payment of a sum of money not less then sixteen years and two thirds
of a year. Provided that William Craig, the surviving husband, the MARY I.
CRAIG, and such other children of Sarah R. Craig as may be of the age of 21
years, at the time of the execution of such conveyances and the guardian of
the children as shall be under the age of 21 years, shall join in such
conveyances in manifestation of their approbation. When received by the
trustees the money shall be vested in real securities in their names or name
in trust, both as to principal and interest for the same persons, estates,
uses and trusts as are declared in the will.
Whereas, by an act passed 18 Mar 1834, JAMES KELTON, surviving administrator
to the estate of SAMUEL COCHRAN, late of the county of Chester, dec. was
authorized to sell and convey real estate of the deceased, situate in the
counties of Clearfield, Crawford, Erie, Tioga and Mercer, in the state of Pa.
with a construction put upon the act that only empowered him to sell so much
of the real estate as would discharge the debts due from Samuel Cochran and
whereas, the heirs of Samuel Cochran by their petition represent that their
wish is that JOSHUA B. LINTON, of Upper Oxford Twp. in the county of Chester,
may be authorized to sell all the real estate of Samuel Cochran.
Therefore, Joshua B. Linton of Upper Oxford Twp. Chester Co. is hereby
authorized all the real estate of Samuel Cochran, late of West Fallowfield,
Chester Co. dec. situate in the counties of Clearfield, Crawford, Erie, Tioga
and Mercer or in any other counties of this commonwealth, and to convey the
same to the purchaser. He is also empowered to perform and fulfil any
contract of sale entered into by James Kelton, or Samuel Cochran in his
lifetime, and to secure sufficient title to the purchaser, and he shall pay
from time to time the respective heirs money received.
Whereas, JOHN C. CRAIG, late of Philadelphia county, on or about 29 Apr 1837
died intestate, sized of two tracts of land in said county, one containing 84
acres, 102 perches and the other containing 6 acres, 32 perches, with the
buildings and improvements, which have been conveyed by deed 28 Dec 1830
recorded in Philadelphia county, Deed Book A.M. #6, pg. 465, leaving a widow,
JANE JOSEPHINE CRAIG, and issue, two sons, JAMES CRAIG and JOHN C. CRAIG JR.,
of whom James died on or about 18 May 1837, intestate, unmarried and without
issue, leaving his mother, Jane Josephine and brother, John C. Craig, the
younger an infant surviving him, and that it would be beneficial to the widow
and infant that the real estate be sold as hereinafter authorized.
Therefore, THOMAS DUNLAP, guardian of John C. Craig, the younger, shall have
power to sell and dispose of the whole estate and interest of his ward, and
to convey the same to the purchaser. That the said power shall not be
exercised during the life time of Jane Josephine, unless she shall unite in
any such sale at the same time. The entire purchase money of Jane Josephine
and John C. Craig, the younger, the one third part shall be received by the
guardian for the use of his ward, and the other two thirds shall be invested
by the guardian in trust, that during the life of Jane Josephine she may
receive the income thereof and at her death, the capital may be held for the
use of his ward.
That GEORGE B. MARKLEY, administrator of the estate of JOHN MARKLEY, late of
the borough of Strasburg, Lancaster county, dec. formerly a collector of
militia fines in the second brigade, fourth division, Pa. Militia,is hereby
authorized and directed to pay the claims of individual judgment creditors
having claims against the estate of John Markley, dec. before the amount due
and owing to the commonwealth is discharged, and if any assets are left, then
to apply the same to the discharge of the claim of the state the estate of
John Markley, dec. 9 Apr 1840
127. An act for the extension of a state road, from the Virginia State line,
near the town of Blacksville, to the town of Waynesburg, in Greene county,
and for other purposes.
That MARK GORDON, DAVID SPRAGG, and RICHARD LEDWITH, of the county of Greene,
are hereby appointed commissioners to view and lay out a state road.
That DAVID DOUGLE, DAVID LOGAN and WM. WALKER of Butler county, are hereby
appointed commissioners to view and lay out a road, from a point on the
Butler and Freeport turnpike, near JOHN BREDIN's farm, through the town of
Saxonburg to intersect the turnpike near the borough of Freeport, in the
county of Armstrong.
That WILLIAM STAPLES, CHARLES C. PRICE of Monroe county, HARTSEL CALTON of
Wayne county, are hereby appointed commissioners to view and lay out a road
from ELEASOR PRICE's on Brodhead's Creek to the Sterling and Newfoundland
turnpike in Wayne county, near the Moravian church.
That ROBERT FAULKNER and STEPHEN LITTLEFIELD of Warren county, RICHARD
RENSHAW, ALONZO J. WILCOX and DIVAN D. MINER of McKean county, are hereby
appointed commissioners to view and locate a state road from Warren, in
Warren county, to the mouth of West Creek in McKean county, by way of
Williamsville.
That ANTHONY WOLF of Centre county, and HENRY NULL of Union county and JACOB
STITSEL of Northumberland county are hereby appointed commissioners to view
and locate a state road from Hevenlings mill, in West Buffalo twp. Union
county, to Elk creek in Miles twp. Centre county.
That HENRY PEARSON of Mercer county, JOHN WHITE and SAMUEL CAIRNS of Beaver
county, are hereby appointed commissioners to view and lay out a state road
from where the state road from Beaver to Mercer crosses the line between said
counties, to New Castle in Mercer county. 9 Apr 1840.
128. An act relative to County Auditors and for other purposes.
That there shall be erected into a body corporate an association for the
education of youth, in the arts, sciences, and useful literature, in Sadsbury
township, Chester county, entitled the Moscow academy of which ROBERT
BELVILLE, JAMES LATTA, WILLIAM W. LATTA, JONATHAN SCHOFIELD, DAVID AGNEW,
JOSEPH WILEY, and WILLIAM STEWART are hereby appointed trustees. 9 Apr 1840.
129. An act making compensation to WILLIAM MCCOY and WILLIAM C. LEAVENSWORTH,
for expenses incurred and services rendered as agents for the commonwealth, in
discovering lands late the estate of JOHN NICHOLSON and PETER BAYNTON, and on
which the commonwealth has a lien.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to William M'Coy,
$1500.00, and to William C. Leavensworth, $2000.00 in full for expenses
incurred and services rendered by them, as agents of the commonwealth in
discovering lands and titles, late the estate of John Nicholson and Peter
Baynton, on which the commonwealth holds a lien, said sums to be reimbursed
to the commonwealth with interest out of the proceeds of the sale of the
lands. 11 Apr 1840.
130. An act to confer on GEORGE STROHL, POLLY STROHL, SUSAN STROHL, ELIZABETH
STROHL, and PEGGY STROHL, and MARINDA WURTZ, the rights and benefits of
children born in lawful wedlock, and for other purposes.
GEORGE STROHL SR., of the county of Northampton, lived and co-habited with
MARIA ZACHARIAS as her husband, and had issue, five children, to wit: George,
Polly, Susan, Elizabeth and Peggy, and that he died intestate in October,
1839, leaving considerable real and personal estate, which he acquired by his
own industry, and it is right that his children should have the same: And
whereas, the father, brothers and sisters of George Stohl Sr., who would by
law be entitled to the property, have signified their desire that the
children should have the same. Therefore, the above named minors shall enjoy
all the rights and advantages of children born in lawful wedlock and to all
intents and purposes as if they had born in lawful wedlock.
That MARINDA WURTZ, daughter of NANCY WURTZ, late of Union County, dec. shall
have and enjoy all the rights and advantages of a child born in lawful wedlock
and capable of inheriting all the estate of her mother as if she had been born
in lawful wedlock.
That HANNAH BAILEY, an illegitimate daughter of SARAH BAILEY of Washington
county, shall have and enjoy all rights and advantages of a child born in
lawful wedlock, and shall be able to inherit any estate which may descend
from her mother as fully as if she had been born in lawful wedlock. 11 Apr
1840.
134. An act concerning a deed of conveyance.
That a certain deed of conveyance made and executed by WILLIAM H. JONES and
JANE W. JONES his wife, of Somerset county, in the state of Maryland, to
MARGARET W. JOHNSTON of the same place, dated 30 Mar 1837 by the grantors and
acknowledged before WILLIAM H. CURTIS and THEODORE G. DASHIELL, two Justices
of the Peace of the state of Maryland, Somerset county and recorded in the
city and county of Philadelphia in deed book G.S. #1, pg. 5, shall be deemed
to be a good and valid for the purpose of conveying the premises situate on
north side of Mulberry St. between Delaware sixth and seventh sts. in the
city of Philadelphia and will have the same effect as if the deed had been
taken and certified by any Judge, Alderman, or Justice of the Peace within
the commonwealth. 11 Apr 1840.
139. An act to incorporate the Woodland Cemetery company of Philadelphia.
Whereas, the practice of crowding the dead into small spaces in popular
cities, is repugnant to the feelings and prejudicial to the health of the
living, and is becoming yearly more inconvient, expensive, and dangerous. A
number of citizens have associated for the purpose of establishing a rural
cemetery, at the Woodlands, in the neighborhood of Philadelphia, whereby the
beautiful landscape and scenery of that situation may be perpetually
preserved, and its ample space, free circulation of air, and grove of trees
afford a security against encroachments upon the dead, and health and solice
to the living. That CHARLES J. INGERSOLL, BENJAMIN STILES, THOMAS MITCHELL,
HENRY AUSTIE, JOHN LINDSAY, WILLIAM E. LEHMAN, JOHN V. COWELL, ANDREW D.
CASH, ROBERT EWING, WILLIAM H. MOORE, JACOB LEX, ELI K. PRICE, PHILIP M.
PRICE, BENJAMIN G. MITCHELL, CHARLES F. LEX and HENRY LEECH, are hereby made
a body politic and coorporate. 13 Apr 1840.
141. An act to incorporate the President, managers and company of the
Bustleton and Summerton Turnpike Road company.
That FRANKLLIN COMLY, ISREAL WALTON, JOHN FOX, JOSIAH WALTON, JACOB SNYDER,
BENJAMIN SNYDER, JAMES L. DUNN, JOHN VANZANT, JACOB SHALLCROSS, JOHN RUPERT,
JACOB SHEARER, JAMES CARTER, JONATHAN WILSON and ROBERT C. GREEN of
Philadelphia county, FRANKLIN VANZANT, MARDEN WILSON, THOMAS H. BUCKMAN,
PHINEAS JENKS, JOSEPH MORRISON, JOHN EASTBURN, JOSEPH COMLY, AARON FEASTER,
THOMAS BUCKMAN, LEWIS S. CORRYELL, AMOS WILKINSON, JOHN A. MITCHEL, SIMON V.
FENTON, and MICHAEL H. JENKS of Bucks county, JOHN WALTON, ISRAEL HALLOWELL,
CHRISTIAN SNYDER, AMOS HARRIS, DERRICK HOGELAND, WILLIAM EYRE, GEORGE
WOODWARD, WILLIAM RANKIN, JOHN SMITH, RICHARD ROBB, JORMAN MURRAY, and THOMAS
WARNER of Montgomery county, are hereby appointed commissioners. 14 Apr 1840.
144. An act regulating election districts and for other purposes.
That the electors of Derry and part of Hanover townships, comprising the
Derry election district, in the county of Dauphin, shall hereafter hold their
elections at the house of DANIEL BAUM in Hummelstown, Derry Twp.
That the township of Edgemont, in the county of Delaware, is hereby erected
into a separate election district, with elections being held at the house now
occupied by HIRAM GREEN, Sign of the President.
That the special and general elections, of the township of Alleheny, in the
county of Somerset, shall be held at the house of JAMES PHILSON.
That the township of Hazle, in the county of Luzerne, is hereby erected into
a separate election district, with election being held at the house now
occupied by LEWIS DAVENPORT.
That the general elections in the township of French Creek, Mercer county,
shall be held at the house of JACOB CORBAN.
That the township of Washington, Berks county, is hereby erected into a
separate election district, with elections held at the public house of
JOSEPH BAUGHMAN.
That the township of Houston, Centre county, is hereby erected into a
separate election district, with elections held at the house of
EBENEZER MCILLWAINE.
That the general elections in the township of Norwick, McKean county, shall
be held at the house of ROWLAND BURDICK.
That the township of Pennsbury, Chester county, is hereby erected into a
separate election district with elections held at the public house of JOSEPH
LANCASTER, now stiled Pennsburry's Inn.
That the general elections in the township of Williams, Bradford county,
shall be held at the house of ROBERT COOPER.
That the general elections in the township of Towanda, Bradford county, shall
be held at the house of NELSON GILBERT.
That the general elections in the township of Wells, Bradford county, shall
be held at the house of EDWARD A. AYRES.
That the township of Fox, Lycoming county, is hereby erected into a separate
election district, and the elections to be held at the house now occupied by
JOSEPH MOLIGNEUSE.
That the general elections in the township of Charlestown, Chester county,
shall be held at the public school house, near MAJOR LITTLES.
That the general elections in the township of Union, Union county, shall be
held at the house of JOHN OTT.
That the general election in the township of Granville, Mifflin county, shall
be held at the public house of WILLIAM BROTHERS, in the borough of Lewistown.
That the township of Lower Windsor, York county, is hereby erected into a
separate election district, and elections to be held at the house of
GEORGE OVERDORFF.
That the freemen of the township of Houston, Clearfield county, shall hold
their elections at the house now occupies by JESSE WILSON.
That the general elections in the township of Upper Woodbury, Huntingdon
county, shall be held at the public school house on the premises of
SAMUEL RHOADS.
That the general elections in the township of Benton, Luzerne county, shall
be held at the house of ROWLAND RICHARDS.
That the township of Easttown, Chester county, shall be a separate election
district, and general elections shall be held at the public house now
occupied by PHILIP KIRK, Sign of the Leopard.
That the qualified voters of that part of Antes township, Huntingdon county,
who heretofore voted at the house of C. BUCK, in Warriorsmark twp., shall
hereby be attached to the Antes Twp. election district, and voting held at
the house now occupied by JOHN BELL.
That the qualified voters of that part of Tyrone twp., Huntingdon county, who
heretofore voted at the house of C. BUCK, in Warriorsmark twp., shall hereby
belong to the Tyrone election district and vote at the house now occupied by
JAMES CRAWFORD.
The qualified voters of North Strabane Twp., Washington county, shall hold
their elections at ISAIAH E. BECK's mill.
The qualified voters of Cross Creek Twp., Washington county, shall hold their
general elections at the house of CORNELIUS SIMMONS at Cross Creek village.
The township of Franklin, Fayette county, shall hereafter hold their election
at the house formerly occupied by ADAM GILILAND.
That the electors of Upper Tulpenhocken twp., Berks county, shall hold their
general election at the house of CHRISTIAN BAUMBAUER.
That the township of Alsace, Berks county, shall form a separate election
district and hold their general election at the house of JACOB BERNHART.
The township of Penn, Lycoming county, shall be erected into a separate
election district and hold their general election at the house of
DAVID PHILIPS.
The qualified voters of the township of Bingham, Potter county, shall hold
their general elections at the house now occupied by AMOS LEWIS.
The qualified voters of the township of Fairmount, Luzerne county, shall
hereafter hold their elections at the house of JOSEPH LONG.
That hereafter the qualified voters of the township of Kenzua, Warren county,
shall hold their elections at the public school house, near the dwellings of
WILLIAM MORRISON and SAMUEL MORRISON.
That the qualified voters of the township of Montgomery, Indiana county,
shall hold their election at the house now occupied by DAVID GORMAN.
That the general election of the township of Jackson, Greene county, shall be
held at the house now occupied by TITUS LONG.
That the electors of the township of Decatur, Clearfield county, shall hold
their general elections at the house now occupied by WILLIAM KEPHART.
The electors of the township of Bern, Berks county, who heretofore voted in
the Borough of Reading, shall be erected into a separate election district,
and hold elections at the house of JACOB EBBLING, in the Borough of Reading.
The qualified voters of the township of Peebles, Allegheny county, shall
hereafter hold their general elections at the house of JOHN BEITLER, in the
village of East Liberty.
The elector of the township of Madison, Armstrong county, shall hereafter
hold elections at the house of PETER BISH.
That the electors of the township of Newtown, Bucks county, who heretofore
voted in the borough of Newtown, shall be erected into a separate election
district, and hold their election at the house of SAMUEL WILSON.
That part of New Sewickley twp., Beaver county, bounded by the lower line of
New Brighton, east to MITCHELL tract, thence to JAMES BLACK's, thence to
JAMES PORTER's, thence to DANIEL CABLE's, thence to DAVID TRINDELL's, thence
to JONATHAN KELLEY's etc.
In error, the name of PETER RICKERT, in the act passed 2 Jul 1839, should be
HENRY RICKERT in the county of Dauphin.
The township of North Sewickley, Beaver county, shall form four election
districts. One to elect at the house of JOHN BIRD. Second to elect at MARK
R. CLARK. Third to elect at the house occupied by JOHN MILLER, on the farm
of B. CHEW. Fourth to elect at the house of GEORGE HARTZELS JR.
The qualified electors of North Sewickley township shall meet at the house of
CONRAD FISHER JR. to elect two inspectors and one judge.
That the township of Penn, Lycoming county, is hereby erected into a separate
election district, and the electors shall hold their election at the house now
occupied by DAVID PHILIPS.
The township of Snowshoe, Centre county, is hereby erected into a separate
district, and the electors shall hold their election at the house of
JOHN FLACK.
That so much of West Township, Huntingdon county, bounded by the farm of
TOBIAS KAUFMAN, thence northeast to the farm of MICHAEL MAGUIRE, west to
Tussey's Mountain etc.
That the general and township elections of the township of Waterford, Erie
county, shall be held at the house of COL. P.E. JUDSON.
That the qualified voters of Manheim township, Schuylkill county, lying north
of the summit of the second mountain, and east of the river Schuylkill shall
hold their election at the public house formerly kept by HENRY STAGER, in the
borough of Pottsville.
That Porter township, Jefferson county, is hereby erected into a separate
election district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house
now occupied by HENRY FREESE.
That the borough of Waterford, Erie county, shall be a separate election
district with elections held at the stone house now occupied by J.L. COOK.
That the citizens of Cumru township, Berks county, that voted at the court
house shall now hold their elections at the public house now occupied by
MICHAEL H. NUNNEMACHER, in the borough of Reading.
The qualified electors of the township of Exeter, Berks county, shall
determine by ballot, whether future elections shall be held at the house of
the late SAMUEL BOYER, or at the house occupied by JOHN MELLON, in the
borough of Reading.
The qualified voters of the township of Coolbaugh, Monroe county, will hold
their elections at the house now occupied by JESPER VLIET.
The general elections for the district composed of Menallen township, Adams
county, shall be held at the house owned and occupied by CHARLES MYERS, in
the borough of Bindersville.
That the voters of Derry township, Westmoreland county, are hereby authorized
to in the same place as always, but all votes will be counted at the house of
JACOB ALTER.
The electors of the borough of Morrisville, Bucks county, shall hold their
elections at the public house now or lately occupied by JOHN NELSON.
The township of Furguson, Clearfield county, is hereby erected into a
separate election district and the elections shall be held at the house now
occupied by THOMAS DAVIS.
The township of Jefferson, Fayette county, shall be a separate election
district, and the electors shall hold their elections at the house now
occupied by JOHN H. TARR.
That the township of Providence, Bedford county, is hereby divided into two
election districts, divided by the house of JOHN SHAFFER. The eastern side
shall hold their elections at the house of JOHN NYCUM and the west at the
same place in the village of Bloody Run.
That the qualified electors of the township Jackson, Lebanon county, shall
hold their election at the house of GEORGE DIEHL in Myerstown.
The boundary lines for the East Rockhill election district, Bucks county, on
lands of DANIEL MAUGLE, thence to JOHN NUNNEMAKER's, thence to ESQUIRE DILL,
and elections shall be held at the public house of JACOB WORMAN in East
Rockhill. 14 Apr 1840.
145. A supplement concerning roads.
That JOHN FISHER and WILLIAM HAMILTON of Mercer county, and JOHN COOPER of
Butler county, are hereby appointed commissioners to view and lay out a state
road from Centerville, Butler county, and thence via East Brook to HENRY
PEARSON's mill in Mercer county.
That WILLIAM REED, ROBERT MILLIKEN, of Mifflin county, and HUGH GIVIN of
Huntingdon county are hereby appointed commissioners to review and lay out a
state road, beginning at Cooper's Gap in Mifflin county, through the Seven
mountains to intersect the public road leading from Greenwood furnace to
Pinegrove, near the house of JOHN BARR in Huntingdon county. 14 Apr 1840.
146. An act concerning certain estates.
Whereas JOHN LATOUR of the city of Philadelphia, executor of the last will of
MARIA ANNE PIZEAN DUVAL, dec. has stated that the will dated 25 May 1830 and
proven at Philadelphia 19 Mar 1838, the testatrix has directed to sell her
real estate and bequeathed the proceeds to her sister in France. The
testatrix was in possession of a two story brick house and lot of land
situate on south side of Christian st. between Front and Second sts. in the
district of Southwark, which she occupied at the time of her death, fully
believing that it was wholly her property and her title was perfect. The
property purchased with her funds, for $1000.00 on 11 Dec 1818 and the
conveyance made to one ARNO BALLOTT, her agent. Arno Ballott died, leaving a
will dated 27 Feb 1798, which was duly proved at Philadelphia 30 Apr 1830,
devising the whole of his estate to the testatrix. That all the property to
which he had title to was the house and lot in question at the time of his
decease. The testatrix was in possession of the property both before and
after the death of Arno Ballott until her own decease, and had regularly
received the rents and profits of it, and has never heard of any heirs or kin
of Arno Ballott and does not believe any exist. Therefore, John Latour shall
have power to make title of the real estate to any purchaser and to
distribute the proceeds in the manner pointed out by the will of Maria Anne
Pizean Duval the testatrix.
That BENJAMIN H. PRICE, son of JOHN PRICE and JANE PRICE of Lower Merion
Twp., Montgomery county, dec. was born before the marriage of his parents.
Therefore all property and interest of the commonwealth in the proceeds of
the sale of any estate, real or personal, of which Benjamin was seized or
possessed at the time of his death is hereby vested in such persons as would
be entitled to the same, as if Benjamin had been born of his parents in
lawful wedlock.
The Sureyor General is hereby authorized to grant an order of re-survey to
JOSEPH S. SPARKS of Providence Twp. Bedford county, upon a warrant granted
Joseph S. Sparks dated 6 May 1833 for 84 acres and numbered 859, authorizing
a re-survey and location of the warrant upon any vacant and unappropriated
land belonging to the commonwealth, within the township and county aforesaid,
and within a reasonable distance of the other land of the warrantee, and
accept the survey so made.
That JOHN HEISELY, of the borough of Williamsport, Lycoming county, is hereby
authorized to construct a berm bank of the West Branch division of the Pa.
Canal along the premises, now in the occupancy of Heisley, and shall have the
privilege of loading and unloading goods, wares and merchandize on of from the
wharf, provided the same shall not in any manner interfere with free
navigation of the canal.
That the administrators of the estate of WALTER OLIVER, late of Mercer
county, dec. are hereby authorized to make and execute deeds for all lands
which the decedent in his life contracted to convey and which were binding on
the estate, under the laws of the commonwealth, the deeds so made shall vest
the same title as if proven in court according to law. 16 Apr 1840.
148. An act to settle the estates of JOHN NICHOLSON and PETER BAYNTON.
Whereas John Nicholson, died in the year 1800, indebted to this commonwealth
and other creditors, leaving a large landed estate and as various acts have
been done by state officials under authority of law, retaining title and
other papers and selling portions of land has delayed the enforcement of
debts and the heirs have been prevented from enjoying any balance of the
estate therefore, a court called "The Niccholson court of Pleas for the state
Of Pa." is hereby created and established, to hold sessions in Harrisburg,
where it can here and determine all cases, and for the purpose of hearing and
determining those claims, the court shall hold its sessions in Philadelphia,
and shall be composed of one judge, etc. 16 Apr 1840.
150. An act for the relief of ELIZABETH HUBLEY and others, widows of soldiers
of the Revolutionary and Indian wars.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to Elizabeth Hubley of
Mercer county, MARY INNERS and BARBARA FINFROCK, SALOME POPE and CATHARINE
LEHMAN of York county, BARBARA ERDMAN of Montgomery county, widows of
soldiers of the Revolutionary and Indian wars, forty dollars each immediately
as a gratuity, and an annuity of forty dollars each during life, payable half
yearly, to commence on 1 Jan 1840.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to allow JACOB MECHLIN,
treasurer of the county of Butler, credit for forty dollars in the settlement
of his accounts, being money paid by Jacob Mechlin in his official capacity to
the executors of WILLIAM WILSON, dec. under the direction of the former State
Treasurer, to an act passed 13 Mar 1839.
That the State Treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to JOHN MCILNEY of
Bedford county, ROBERT AGNEW of Allegheny county, THOMAS CONNELLY of Greene
county, WILLIAM CARNAGEY of Columbiana county, in the state of Ohio,
ALEXANDER EWING of LaGrange county in the state of Indiana, GEORGE HORNIER of
Washington county, in the state of Maryland, and BARBARA JACOBY of Adams
county, ANN HUNT of Fayette county, MARIA SANTEE and ELIZA SIDEMAN of
Northhampton county, RACHAEL HILL of Lycoming county, CHRISTEENA HUFFMAN of
Westmoreland county, POLLY INGRAHAM of Crawford county, EVE CATHARINE MARTIN
of Lancaster city, soldiers and widows of soldiers of the Revolutionary and
Indian wars, forty dollars each immediately, as a gratuity and an annuity of
forty dollars each during life, to be paid half yearly, commencing on 1 Jan
1840.
That so much of the fourth section of the act dated 21 Jun 1839, as grants a
gratuity of forty dollars to JOB PEDANT of Indiana county, is hereby repealed
and the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay the same to JOB PIERCE of
Indiana county, the person intended to receive the said gratuity and so much
of the third section as grants a pension and gratuity to WILLIAM HOLLINGSHEAD
of Bedford county, is hereby repealed, and the State Treasurer is hereby
authorized to pay JAMES HOLLINGSHEAD of Bedford county forty dollars
immediately as a gratuity, and an annuity of forty dollars during life,
payable half yearly, commencing on 1 Jan 1839.
That the State Treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to CATHARINE TIBBINS of
Huntingdon county, only daughter of HENRY TIBBINS, dec. who was a
Revolutionary soldier in Colonel Hazens regiment of the Pa. line, the sum of
$200.00 as full compensation for a tract of donation land, to which Henry
Tibbins became entitled for services rendered during the revolutionary war.
That the State Treasurer is hereby authorized to pay the gratuity and annuity
granted to FREDERICK TRESSLA of Franklin county, by the third section of the
act of 21 Jun 1839, to FREDERICK TRESSLER of Franklin county for whom it was
originally intended.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to JAMES GORDON of
Butler county, the sum of forty dollars as a gratuity in full for his
military services.
That the treasurer of Allegheny county be directed to pay CHARLES BROOKE, a
pensioner of the State of Pa. who was placed on the pension list last
session, as being in Fayette county, whereas Brooke lives in the county of
Allegheny. 16 Apr 1840.
151. An act to authorize the administrators of the estate of WASHINGTON E.
PETTIT, to make and execute a deed to JOHN RUTAN.
Whereas, Washington E. Pettit, dec. late of the state of Ohio, in his
lifetime sold to John Rutan a tract of land in Morris Twp. Washington county,
Pa. and died, having made no provision for the fulfilment of the contract,
therefore, the administrators are hereby authorized to make and execute to
John Rutan a deed for the land described. 16 Apr 1840.
152. An act to incorporate the Lewisburg Academy in Union County.
That the academy now in full operation in Lewisburg, Union County, is hereby
incorporated, under the direction of the following persons as trustees:
THOMAS CLINGAN, ALEXANDER GRAHAM, WILLIAM NESBIT, WILLIAM WILSON, WM.
CAMERON, JACKSON MCFADDEN, THOMAS HAYS, JOHN NESBIT and WILLIAM LUDWICK who
are declared to be one body politic and corpaorate. 16 Apr 1840.
155. An act to incorporate the Madison Academy at Abington Centre, in the
county of Luzerne.
ANDREW BEDFORD, THOMAS SMITH, JOHN MILLER, NORVELL D. GREEN, BENJAMIN F.
BAILEY, LEMUEL STONE, RODMAN SISSON, HORATIO W. NICHOLS and CHARLES R.
GARMAN are hereby appointed trustees of said corporation. 16 Apr 1840.
156. An act to incorporate the Wrightsville Academy in the county of York.
JACOB LIVERGOOD, JACOB BANN, ABRAHAM HARRIS, JOSEPH WILSON, MATTHEW KERR,
GAYLORD L. MARE, and ROBERT W. SMITH shall constitute a board of trustees.
14 Apr 1840.
157. An act to incorporate the Danville Railroad company.
That PETER BALDY, WILLIAM DONALDSON, DR. WILLIAM H. MAGILL, JOHN C. BOYD, E.
TREGO, THOMAS CHAMBERS, GEORGE A. FRICK, JACOB HIBLER, JOHN C. GRIER,
VALENTINE BEST, and JOHN MOORE are hereby appointed commissioners, notice of
the same to be put in at least two newspapers in Columbia newspapers.
16 Apr 1840.
160. An act to incorporate the President, managers, and company of the
Loyalsock Gap Turnpike Raod company.
That ROBERT PORTER, ROBERT MONTGOMERY, JEREMIAH TALLMAN, JACOB HESS, WILLIAM
SEDAM, ABRAHAM UPDEGRAFF, WILLIAM PIATT JR., CHARLES GUDYKUNTZ and JOHN BOYER
of the county of Lycoming are hereby appointed commissioners. 16 Apr 1840.
161. An act concerning certain real estate.
Whereas, by deed of trust executed the 2 Nov 1833, JACOB MITCHEL, of the city
of Philadelphia, conveyed certain grounds to EZRA STYLES ELY and JOSEPH B.
MITCHEL in trust, for certain uses, reserving the power to lease said real
estate, and to receive the rents of the same, and to collect dividends,
income and interest of the personal estate and to use the same for his own
proper use during the life of the said Jacob, and a portion of the ground
conveyed yields no income, the annual ground rents exceeding any rent that
can be had for the same. Therefore, Jacob Mitchel is hereby authorized to
grant and convey any ground contained in the deed of trust, reserving as the
entire consideration a ground rent payable semi-annually during the natural
life of Jacob Mitchel, provided the rents and profits be applied to the uses
and trusts as specified in the deed.
That HARRIET COLEMAN, guardian of the persons and estates of ROBERT DAWSON,
SARAH ANN COLEMAN, and HARRIET COLEMAN JR., minor children of JAMES COLEMAN,
late of Elizabeth Furnace, Lancaster county, dec. is hereby authorized to
purchase and receive conveyance for any lands and real estate as may be
necessary and beneficial for the carrying on of Elizabeth Furnace and Martick
Forges, Lancaster county, late the property of James Coleman, dec. and now
belonging to his minor children, and to sell and convey said estate so
purchased by her as guardian of said minors. 16 Apr 1840.
161. An act relating to estates.
Whereas, by deed of trust executed 2 Nov 1833, JACOB MITCHEL of the city of
Philadelphia, conveyed grounds to EZRA STYLES ELY and JOSEPH B. MITCHEL in
trust, for certain uses, reserving the power to lease and to receive rents
etc. and as a portion of the ground yields no income. Therefore Jacob Michel
is hereby authorized to grant and convey any ground, reserving ground rent
during the natural life of Jacob Mitchel.
That HARRIET COLEMAN, guardian of the persons and estates of ROBERT DAWSON
COLEMAN, SARAH ANN COLEMAN and HARRIET COLEMAN, minor children of JAMES
COLEMAN, late of Elizabeth Furnace, Lancaster county, dec. is hereby
authorized to purchase and receive conveyance for any lands and real estate
as may be necessary and beneficial for the carrying on of Elizabeth Furance
and Martick Forges, in the county of Lancaster, now belonging to the minor
children, and to sell and convey the same.
That WILLIAM SMITH, PHILIP RICE, and JAMES RHEA, commissioners of Indiana
county, are hereby authorized to sell and convey by deed, the lot of ground
on which the old goal is erected, with all buildings to the highest bidder,
provided the sale shall not be made until the new goal is completed.
That JOEL EVANS and JAMES OGDEN, two commissioners residing in Delaware
county, appointed 25 May 1836, to view, lay out and mark out a state road,
from Philadelphia to Chadd's Ford, or near ISAAC HALL's, in Nether Providence
Twp., Delaware county, thence to the Maryland line passing through the land of
CYRUS BAKER and MARK PENNELL in the township of Aster, Delaware county and
correct any errors. 16 Apr 1840.
162. A supplement to the act passed 11 Mar 1834, to incorporate the
Norristown Insurance Company of Montgomery county.
That JOSEPH THOMAS, ADAM SLEMMER, WILLIAM H. SLINGLUFF, JOHN B. STERIGERE,
GEORGE RUNDLE, WILLIAM MILLER, JAMES WELLS, JACOB FRY JR., GEORGE REICHARD,
GEORGE W. HOLSTEIN, JOHN FREEDLY, GEORGE H. PAWLING, HENRY SCHEETZ, DR. JAMES
ANDERSON, HENRY LONGAKER, MATHEW ROBERTS, JOHN BOYER, BERNARD MCCREEDY, SAMUEL
JEMISON, JACOB SPANG, JOSEPH FORNANCE, LEVI ROBERTS, MORDECAI R. MOORE, HENRY
KERR, JAMES HOOVEN, JACOB FREEDLEY, GEORGE W. THOMAS, GEORGE W. ROBERTS,
WILLIAM Z. MATHEYS, BENJAMIN F. HANCOCK, PHILIP HAHN, DR. HENRY D.W. PAWLING,
JOHN JACOBS, ISAAC H. MILLER, JACOB BODEY, WILLIAM HENRY are hereby appointed
commissioners in place of the persons named in the earlier act. 16 Apr 1840.
163. An act to incorporate the Honeybrook Presbyterian Church of the village
of Waynesburg, Chester county and for other purposes.
That JOSEPH MARPLE, ABNER GRIFFITH, WILLIAM WHITE, DAVID BUCHANAN, ROBERT
MORTON, JACOB M'CONNELL, and AMOS GRIFFITH be trustees, to continue in office
for one year.
Whereas, the four German Reformed Congregations of Upper Mount Bethel, Lower
Mount Bethel, Lower Smithfield and Hamilton townships, all in Northampton
county, did, in 1812 purchase of WILLIAM LANDER, a lot in the township of
Upper Mount Bethel, containing 19 acres and 98 perches for a parsonage for
the pastor of all the congregations, deed dated 14 Nov 1812, recorded in
Easton, Deed book H, vol 3, pg. 195. conveyed to GEORGE MANN, JOHN HILLIARD,
JOHN HOUSER, ADAM SMITH, SIMON HELLER and HENRY FENNER in trust. Whereas,
Lower Smithfield wished to sell their 1/4 share and as John Houser and Adam
Smith are dec. the remaining trustees, Joseph Houser, John Smith and Isaac
Trausue, are authorized to sell and convey their share. 16 Apr 1840.
165. An act concerning certain real estate.
That GEORGE WALLACE, guardian of JANE MCFADDEN JR., ANN MCFADDEN, and MARY
JANE MCFADDEN, minor children of JANE MCFADDEN, dec. is hereby authorized to
sell all the undivided reversionary interest of the minors in a certain tract
of land situate in Wilkins Twp. Allegheny county, containing 60 acres and
being a portion or share allotted to ELIZA REEVES, as one of the devisees
under the will of GEORGE WALLACE, late of Braddock's Field, in the said
county, dec. 16 Apr 1840.
166. An act to incorporate the Jonestown Academy, Lebanon county.
That PETER C. FREYLINGHAUSE, SAMUEL E. BEIKEL, and HENRY MEILY, be
commissioners for the sale of stock. 16 Apr 1840.
168. An act to incorporate the Huntingdon Female Seminary in the borough of
Huntingdon, Huntingdon county.
The trustees are the following named persons: JAMES GWIN, JOHN G. MILES,
DANIEL AFRICA, WILLIAM ORBISON, WILLIAM DORRIS, THOMAS FISHER, JOHN KER,
BENJAMIN E. MCMCMURTRIE, and ANDREW P. WILSON shall be declared a body
politic and corporate. 16 Apr 1840.
170. An act to incorporate the Muncy Female Seminary, Lycoming county.
The seminary shall be under the care and direction of seven trustees: DR.
JAMES RANKIN, JOHN MONTGOMERY, COWDEN S. WALLIS, JOSHUA BOWMAN, JOHN J.
CROUSE, J.P. SCHUYTON and JACOB POTT who are declared one body corporate and
politic. 16 Apr 1840.
171. An act to incorporate an Academy at Lock Haven, Clinton county,
The first trustees shall be WASHINGTON DUNN, JOHN BAIRD, (of Chapman) ROBERT
M'CORMACK, ISAAC LUSK, JOSEPH F. QUAY, ROBERT IRWIN, SAUL M'CORMACK, JOHN
FLEMING and ALEXANDER BOYD, shall be a body incorporate and politic.
16 Apr 1840.
172. An act concerning various divorces.
That the marriage contract entered into by EBER HENDERSON and SARAH HENDERSON
his wife, late SARAH GRAY, both of the county of Chester, is hereby annulled
and made void and the parties released from all duties and obligations as
fully as if they had never been joined in marriage.
That the marriage contract entered into by JACOB NACE of Bucks county and EVE
NACE his wife, is hereby annulled and made void, and the parties relieved and
discharged from all legal duties and obligations as fully as if they had
never been joined in marriage.
That the marriage contract entered into by EDWIN LEWIS and HARRIET LEWIS his
wife, is hereby annulled and made void, and the parties released and
discharged from all legal duties and obligations as fully as if they had
never been joined in marriage.
That the marriage contract entered into between ANDREW CUBBISON of Mifflin
county, and CATHARINE CUBBISON his wife, is hereby annulled and made void and
the parties released from all duties as if they never had been joined in marriage.
That the marriage contract entered into by ISAAC DULL of Franklin county, and
HANNAH DULL his wife, is hereby annulled and the parties released and
discharged from all duties and obligations as fully as if they had never been
joined in marriage. 16 Apr 1840.
175. An act to annul the marriage contract of GEORGE LYMAN, with JULIA ANN
LYMAN his wife.
That the marriage contract entered into by George Lyman and Julia Ann Lyman
his wife, is hereby annulled and made void, and the parties released and
discharged from all legal duties and obligations as fully as if they had
never been joined in marriage, provided nothing shall be construed to render
illegitimate the child or children of said marriage. 16 Apr 1840.
178. An act to incorporate the Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Chester
county.
RICHARD BARNARD, THOMAS W. BOYD, ENOCH HARLAN, JOHN P. PHIPPS, JOHN A. LOVE,
HAYS CLARK SEN., ANDREW MITCHELL, GEORGE FLEMING, JOHN D. STEEL, AMOS FREDD,
JOSEPH M. THOMPSON, HENRY LONG, and JOSHUA JACKSON, shall be managers of the
company until the first election takes place. 21 Apr 1840.
179. An act to revive and keep in force an act passed 25 Mar 1839, to
incorporate the Company of the Centreville and Donegal Clay Turnpike Road
until 1 Apr 1841 and other purposes.
That LEWIS S. CORYELL, JOHN H.INGHAM, JOSEPH D. MURRAY, JOHN C. PARRY, DANIEL
BALL and ISAAC VAN HORNE are hereby constiututed a body politic and corporate
by the name of New Hope Lock Company
in manufacturing Balls patent locks. 21 Apr 1840.
182. An act to incorporate the Methodist Episcopal Church in Pottstown,
Montgomery county.
The following named persons shall be trustees: EDWARD WELLS, JOHN M. MILES,
JOHN DOUGHERTY, PHILIP KINKINNER, JAMES WELLS and SAMUEL HOCKLEY. 21 Apr 1840.
183. An act to incorporate the Perrysville Bridge Company.
That STEWART TURBETT, JAMES HUGHES, JAMES THOMPSON, BENJAMIN KEPNER,
ALEXANDER MCGONIGLE, and RICHARD D. MORRISON of Juniata county, are hereby
appointed commissioners of building a bridge over the river Juniata at
Perrysville. 21 Apr 1840.
185. An act concerning certain real estate and other purposes.
That JOHN REYNOLDS, DAVID DICK, ELIPHALET BETTS, NORMAN CALENDER, ANDREW
SMITH, HORACE CULLUM, JOHN MCFARLAND, EDWARD A. REYNOLDS, JOHN P. DAVIS are
hereby erected into one body politic and corporate by the name of Crawford
County Mutual Insurance Company.
That the State Treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to JACOB EYSTER, late
chief clerk in the Surveyor General's office, the sum of $500.00 as full
compensation for extra services, while in that situation.
Whereas, by an article of agreement, made 18 Oct 1826 by WILLIAM CARLISLE and
MARY CARLISLE his wife, with ROBERT THOMPSON, to sell and convey their right,
and title in the real estate of DOCTOR HUGH THOMPSON, late of Peters Twp.,
Washington county, dec. for the sum of $10.00 per acre, upon which Robert
Thompson paid on the day of the date of article $245.00 and on the following
day $50.00. Whereas William and Mary Carlisle soon after died, without
making a deed of conveyance to Robert Thompson. Therefore, the administrator
of William Carlisle is hereby authorized to make a deed conveying to Robert
Thompson the real estate, and the article of agreement shall be entered in
record in the county of Washington. That the deed made shall vest the title
to the lands thereby conveyed to Robert Thompson as fully as if a deed had
been executed by William and Mary Carlisle in their life time.
That the Attorney General is hereby authorized to institute a suit, in the
name of the commonwealth, against LAWRENCE L. MINOR, late clerk of the
Senate, in the court of Common Pleas of Dauphin county, to collect any
balance of money which is due from him, received on warrants drawn by the
Speaker of the Senate and not accounted for. All other laws relative to the
collection of the account inconsistent with the provisions of this act, are
hereby repealed.
Whereas, EDWARD RITCHEY, of the county of Clinton, hath complained that by
reason of the construction of the dam across the West Branch of the river
Susquehanna, at Queen's Run, a slack-water has been formed above the dam-a
distance of about seven miles-which is the receptacle of large bodies of ice,
which causes the water to overflow the farms situate along the pool of the
dam. The farm of Ritchey was overflowed and laid waste, in consequence of
the erection of the dam. That his grain in the ground, his dwelling house
with its contents, his barn with its contents, his sheep and hogs drowned,
his fences entirely swept away, and many other material injuries sustained by
him, for which he claims remuneration from the commonwealth. Therefore the
Canal Commissioners are hereby authorized to inquire into the truth of the
allegations and if sustained, are hereby authorized to pay to Edward Ritchey
the amount of damages. 28 Apr 1840.
186. An act to incorporate the New Castle Mutual Insurance Company of Mercer
county.
That JOHN REYNOLDS, W. DICKSON, JOHN WILLSON JR., J.T. BOYD, R.W. CUNNINGHAM,
C.T. WHIPPO, R. COCHRAN, W. DICKEY, JOSEPH KISSICK, JAMES BANKS, E. SANKEY,
and others, for the purpose of insuring their household furniture,
merchandize, dwelling houses, stores, shops and other buildings, against loss
or damage by fire, shall be a corporation. 28 Apr 1840.
189. An act to incorporate the Pottsville and Tuscarora Railroad company.
That WILLIAM WALLACE, JACOB ALTER, JOSEPH HOUGHAWOUT, of Philadelphia, SAMUEL
BELL, JOHN MILLER, JOHN GREENE, commissioners of Berks county, JACOB OLEWINE,
CHARLES ELLET, ANDREW B. WHITE, AQUILLA BOLTON, GIDEON G. PALMER, GEORGE M.
TOTTEN, JOHN G. HEWS of the county of Schuylkill are hereby appointed
commissioners. Three books will be opened, one at the public house of Joseph
Houghawout, in Philadelphia, and one at the house of John Miller in Reading,
Berks county, and one at the public house of WILLIAM G. JOHNSON in
Pottsville, Schuylkill county. 28 Apr 1840.
190. An act to authorize CHARLES J. DAVIS, of Chester county, to sell and
convey certain real estate in Pennsylvania.
That it shall be the duty of the Orphans' Court of Chester county, to appoint
a person as trustee to act for MARY DAVIS, wife of Charles J. Davis of Chester
county, and whenever Charles J. Davis shall contract for the sale of real
estate, which has descend to him from any of his ancestors or which he has
acquired by devise or purchase in the state of Pa., it shall be the duty of
the trustee to examine the same and if it appears made in good faith, he
shall signify his assent in writing upon any deed which shall vest the estate
to the purchaser as if Mary Davis was competent to execute the same and
according to the seventh section of the act, entitled an act to authorize the
trustees created by the last will and testament of JOHN DONAUGHEY to invest
the monies belonging to the estate of the decedent approved 8 Apr 1840. 14 May 1840
191. An act to annul the marriage contract of ROBERT ANNERS and MARTHA ANNERS
his wife.
That the marriage contract entered into by Robert Anners and Martha Anners
his wife, late MARTHA PULLEN, of the city of Philadelphia, is hereby made
void and the parties released and discharged from all duties as fully as if
they had never been joined in marriage. 19 May 1840.
195. An act to annul the marriage contract of JOHN ZUERCHER, and MAGDALENA
ZUERCHER his wife.
That the marriage contract entered into by John Zuercher, and Magdalena
Zuercher, his wife, is hereby annulled and the parties released for the
contract, and from all duties as fully as if they had never been joined in
marriage. 21 May 1840.
196. An act to incorporate the Pioneer Fire Company, in Marietta, Lancaster
county.
That JAMES WILSON, SAMUEL M. YOST, JACOB STIBGEN, ROBERT RAMSEY, JOHN BELL,
JOHN HUSTON, WILLIAM A. SPANGLER, HENRY CHARLES, JOSEPH T. ANDERSON, SAMUEL
ALGIER, DAVID RINEHART, JOHN PARK, SAMUEL OBERLIN, JOHN B. MALONEY, SIMON S.
NAGLE, JOHN J. LIBHART, SAMUEL D. MILLER, JOSEPH INHOFF and A.N. CASSEL are
hereby declared to be a body politic and corporate. 21 May 1840.
201. An act incorporating the First Presbyterian Church in Mount Joy,
Lancaster county and for other purposes.
The following named persons shall be trustees: JOSEPH PINCKERTON, DAVID
MCNEELY, AMOS H. SLAYMAKER, JAMES W. HENDRICKSON, and JAMES LAIRD. 25 May 1840.
202. An act to incorporate the French Creek Bridge Company.
That EDWARD PEARCE, WM. HENRY, SAML. F. DALE, JAMES KINNEAR, HUGH M'CLELLAND
and JNO. EVANS are hereby appointed commissioners for erecting a bridge over
French creek at the town of Franklin, where the Warren and Franklin turnpike
road strikes the creek, Venango county. 25 May 1840.
203. An act to incorporate the president and managers of the Armstrong,
Jefferson and Clearfield Turnpike Road company.
That JAMES KERR, HANCE ROBINSON, JACOB MILLER of the county of Armstrong, and
HIRAM WILSON, WILLIAM JACK, JOHN DONGHERTY, JACOB SHAFFER of the county of
Jefferson and ISAAC HORTON, DANIEL OYSTER, URIAH ROGERS, JONATHAN NICHALS of
the county of Clearfield are hereby appointed commissioners. 25 May 1840.
205. An act to annul the marriage contract of JACOB THAYER and PURNEL THAYER.
That the marriage contract entered into by Jacob Thayer and Purnel Thayer,
his wife, is hereby annulled and made void, and the parties released from all
legal duties as fully as if they had never been joined in marriage. 25 May 1840.
208. An act to authorize the trustees of the Central Savings Association of
Philadelphia to sell and convey certain real estate and for other purposes.
Whereas, RICHARD MORRIS and MARIA MORRIS his wife, by indenture, 2 Oct 1838
did grant and convey unto MATTHEW C. RALSTON, DAVID HILL and ALEXANDER
MCCLUNG, trustees for the Central Savings Association of Philadelphia, six
contiguous three storied brick tenements and lots, situate at the south east
corner of Lombard and Schuylkill Front Street in the city of Philadelphia and
as the Central Savings Association is an unincorporated association, therefore
the trustees are hereby authorized to sell and convey the six buildings and
lots and any purchaser shall receive same free and clear of all liens or
encumbrances.
That the administrator of CHARLES WETHERILL, dec. is hereby authorized to
sell and convey any part of the real estate whereof Charles Wetherill died
seized. That the administrator is hereby authorized to pay out of the
personal estate one equal third part of the principal and interest due on a
certain mortgage for the payment of $2000.00 and interest on a messuage and
lot in Eston, Northampton county, which CHRISTIAN A FICKARDT and wife, by
indenture 9 May 1837 Deed book A, Vol 6, pg. 564, granted and conveyed unto
Charles Wetherill, JOHN PRICE WETHERILL and WILLIAM WETHERILL as tenants in
common, subject to aforesaid mortgage.
That WILLIAM PATCH of the city of Philadelphia is authorized to change his
name from William Patch to WILLIAM P. HOMER and to all intents and purposes
as if no change had been made.
That it shall be lawful for the Pittsburg and Steubenville Turnpike Road
Company to alter the location of their road as passes through the farm of
JOHN YOUNG and JOHN SHORTZ, of Allegheny county and also through the lands of
ANDREW DONALDSON, ALEXANDER SCOTT, JOHN CORDECK and JAMESON COOK in the county
of Washington. 27 May 1840.
209. An act to incorporate the Luzerne county Mutual Insurance Company and
for other purposes.
That GEORGE M. HOLLENBACK, HENDRICK B. WRIGHT, S.D. LEWIS, JOHN BENNETT,
ELIAS HOYT, W.C. REYNOLDS, JOHN L. BUTLER, S.T. NICHOLSON, HENRY F. LAMB,
GEO. P. STEELE, ZIBA BENNETT, E.W. STURDEVANT and JOHN W. ROBINSON shall be a
corporation for the purpose of insuring dwelling houses, stores, shops and
other buildings, household furniture, merchandize and other property against
loss or damage by fire, with business transacted in the borough of
Wilkesbarre. 27 May 1840.
210. An act to erect the town of South Easton, Northampton county, into a
borough, and for other purposes.
That the village of South Easton, bounded by land of JAMES M. PORTER is
hereby erected into a borough, with elections being held at the house of
DAVID MOYER.
That THOMAS M. MILES, SAMUEL HAMILTON, GEORGE CHRISTMAN JR., JOHN ESSICK and
DAVID EPPENHEIMER are hereby appointed trustees of the Methodist Episcopal
Church in the borough of Pottstown, Montgomery county, in place of JAMES
WELLS, SAMUEL HOCKLEY, JOHN DOUGHERTY and JOHN M. MILES named as trustees in
at passed 21 Apr 1840. 27 May 1840.
212. An act authorizing the laying out of state roads and for other purposes.
That JOHN SLOAN of Clarion county, JOHN CALHOUN and WILLIAM MCINTOSH, of
Armstrong county, MEEK KELLEY and S. MCANULTY of Indiana county, are hereby
appointed commissioners to view, lay out and mark a state road beginning at
the town of Blairsville, Indiana county, thence to Shallotta, thence by way
of Elderton, to the town of Clarion, Clarion county.
That THOMAS ARMSTRONG, EBENEZER SMITH and JACOB BURR of Armstrong county, and
WILLIAM COLEMAN and JOHN SMITH of Indiana county, are hereby appointed
commissioners to lay out and locate a state road from the town of Saltzburg,
Indiana county, by way of A. WOODWARD's mills and Elderton to Rural village,
Armstrong county.
That Meek Kelley and JOSEPH HENDERSON of Indiana county, and ROBERT WOODWARD
of Armstrong county, are hereby appointed commissioners to review the part of
the state road which lies between Shallotta and Johnston's mill, with power to
alter the location.
That MEHELINN MCGLATHERY of Montgomery county and DAVID RIALL of Bucks
county, are hereby appointed commissioners to view, lay out and mark a state
road beginning at the borough of Doylestown, Bucks county, and thence to the
river Delaware at or near Lumberville.
That TAYLOR F. RANDOLPH, THOMAS VAN HORNE ESQ., and JOHN REYNOLDS are hereby
authorized to cut a channel across the large bend on the French Creek, two
miles below Meadville, allowing water to pass through and thereby imporving
navigation of the creek, with permission of the owners of the land.
That EDGAR HUIDEKOOPER is hereby authorized to straighten the channel of
French creek by cutting through the point of land belonging to H.J.
HUIDEKOOPER on the island opposite the mouth of the Cussewago creek, to
improve the navigation of the Creek, with the owners consent. 28 May 1840.
214. An act to incorporate the Bradford Railroad and Coal Company.
That JAMES S. SPENCER, A.G. WATERMAN, JAMES S. PRINGLE, THOMAS BELL, N.
SMITH, G.W. CONAROE, ISAAC W. POTTS, SANSOM W. TROTTER, SYDNEY V. SMITH, JOHN
RICHARDSON, JOHN N. WESTON, GORDON F. MASON are hereby constituted a body
politic and corporate for the purpose of constructing a railroad and mining
coal in Bradford county. 28 May 1840.
215. An act to incorporate the Franklin Cemetery Company in the township of
the Northern Liberties, county of Philadelpha, and for other purposes.
That GEORGE BOYD, JOHN W. KESTER, WILLIAM H. MOORE, NICHOLAS HELVERSON,
WILLIAM C. STILES, BENJAMIN S. JANNEY, A.J. BUCKNOR, CHARLES J. WOLBERT,
ZACHARIAH B. ZIEGLER, R.W. EVANS, JOSEPH BATTIN, A. MISKEY, JOHN AGNEW, H.W.
CHADWICK, GEORGE MULOCK, ABEL REED, J.E. PARKER, THOMAS HARRISON, J.B.
KINGSTON, GEORGE SCOTT and WILLIAM SUPER are hereby made a body politic and
corporate in law. That George Boyd, and John W. Kester, trustees, shall have
power to arrange and lay out the lot of land so conveyed to them in trust by
CATHARINE R. LIVINGSTON, for a rural cemetery into lots. 29 May 1840.
216. An act to incorporate the Middlefield Coal Company.
That GEORGE W. RITER, THOMAS WEAVER, THOMAS W. FRANCIS, FREDERICK AUGUSTUS
RAYBOLD, WILLIAM SHIPPEN, WILLIAM W. HALY are hereby constituted a body
politic and corporate withing the counties of Northampton and Luzerne with
power to construct a railroad. 29 May 1840.
217. An act to confer legal rights.
That SUSANNAH COCKLIN, wife of JOHN W. COCKLIN of Cumberland county, and
natural daughter of JOHN SNYDER, late of Cumberland county dec. and ELIZABETH
WEAVER shall have all the rights of a child born in lawful wedlock, and shall
inherit the estate of her late father, dec. as fully as if Susannah had been
born in lawful wedlock. 29 May 1840.
218. An act to incorporate the town of Zelienople, Butler county, into a
borough.
Bounderies are: the banks of Connequenessing creek, where P.L. PASSAVANT's
lot adjoins the out-lots of Harmony, west by lands of ANDREW ZIEGLIER, west
through lands of P.L. Passavant, north by JOSEPH ZIEGLIER and JOHN HERR to
the banks of the Connequenessing. 29 May 1840.
220. An act to incorporate the Susquehanna Coal Company.
That LEWIS DEWART, HENRY W. SNYDER, JOHN H. PURDY, EDWARD GOBIN and CHARLES
G. DONNEL are hereby constituted a body corporate in the mining of coal.
2 Jun 1840.
221. An act concerning sale and transfer of real estate.
That the fifth section of the act dated 8 Apr 1840 which authorizes the
trustees of JOHN DONAUGHEY, dec. and GEORGE PASSMORE, guardian of th minor
children of CHARLES BOND, to convey real estate in the county of Washington
to JOHN WORREL is hereby by repealed, and the guardian is now authorized to
make the same to the heirs of Worrel. 2 Jun 1840.
223. An act to incorporate the Brighton Institute of Classical, Mathematical
and Natural Science at New Brighton, Beaver county Pa.
ROBERT DILWORTH, ENOCH MARVIN, JOHN CLARK, JOHN NESBIT, JOHN DICKEY, OVID
PINNEY, E.K. CHAMBERLAIN, ROBERT TOWNSEND, have applied and in writing made
known to us, their desire to found an institution of practical science in the
town of New Brighton, therefore, it is hereby established. The first trustees
shall consist of twenty four persons: Robert Dilworth, JAMES WRIGHT, ARTHUR
BRADFORD, BENJAMIN C. CRICHLON, WILLIAM MORTON, EDWARD HOOPS, BROWN B.
CHAMBERLIN, JAMES PATTERSON, LEMUEL G. OLMSTEAD, AARON WILLIAMS, Robert
Townsend, AARON B. OLMSTEAD, MATTHEW F. CHAPLIN, WILLIAM H. DENNY, John
Dickey, of Beaver county, LORING LUSH of Mercer county, STEPHEN BARLOW of
Meadville, GEORGE A. LYON of Erie, HARMAR DENNY, FRANCIS HERRON and WALTER
FORWARD of Pittsburg, E.P. SWIFT, ROBERT C. GRIER of Allegheny are
constituted a body corporate and politic. 3 Jun 1840.
226. An act to incorporate the Williamsport Bridge Company, in the county of
Lycoming, and for other purposes.
That NICHOLAS FUNSTON, THOMAS UPDEGRAFF, TUNISON CORYELL, THOMAS C. PARSONS,
CHARLES ALLEN, CHARLES LLOYD, ABRAHAM UPDEGRAFF, JAMES H. HULING, WILLIAM J.
LYON and JOSEPH S. WILLIAMS are hereby appointed commissioners to make a
toll bridge over the West Branch of the Susquehanna at Williamport, Lycoming county.
That JULIANA WEAVER, of the county of Adams, be authorized to change her name
to JULIANA WEAVER WORTZ and hereafter be called and known by that name and she
shall have and enjoy all rights and advantages of a child born in lawful
wedlock, as if she had been born in lawful wedlock.
Whereas, BENJAMIN H. PRICE, son of JOHN PRICE and JANE PRICE, of Lower Merion
township, Montgomery county dec. was born before the marriage of his
parents. Therefore, Therefore, all the estate and interest of the
commonwealth, in any estate, real or personal of which Benjamin was seized at
the time of his death, is hereby vested in such persons as would be entitled
to the same as if Benjamin had been born in lawful wedlock. 3 Jun 1840.
228. A supplement to the act incorporationg the Raush Creek Rail Road Company
passed 2 Apr 1831.
The time for commencing the rail road in the act passed 1 Apr 1836 is
extended three years, and the time of completion is extended five years from
1 Apr 1840. DAVID KRAUSE, HENRY K. STRONG, JOHN SNEVELY, GEORGE N. ECKERT,
JOHN BARR, WILLIAM COLT, CHARLES FRAILEY, WILLIAM DONALDSON, PETER FILBERT,
JOHN STRIMFLER, AUGUSTINE HOLMES, DAVID GREENAWALT, THOMAS W. O'NEAL, J.H.
O'NEAL, and ADAMS FORSTER, are hereby appointed additional commissioners.
5 Jun 1840.
229. An act to incorporate the Saint Patrick's Beneficial Society of Port
Carbon, Schuylkill county and for other purposes.
That EDWARD COLAHAN, HUGH KINSLEY, THOMAS DOGET, PATRICT SCANLAN, THOMAS
QUIN, JAMES NEVIN, are hereby incorporated and made a body politic.
That the qualified citizens of Lower Mahantongo Twp. Schuylkill county,
beginning at the Barry Twp. line, along the mountain to include the house of
JOHN KUNSELMAN, thence across the township to include the house of JOSEPH
SNYDER, and DANIEL FIDLER, along the south side of the mountain to include
the house of JOHN GEHRUS then direct to the Barry Twp. line, with elections
to be held at the house of PETER STUTZMAN JR., under the direction of Peter
Stutzman Jr., PETER BRESSLER, and PETER DINGER. 5 Jun 1840.
230. An act to incorporate the Williamsport Mutual Insurance Company in the
county of Lycoming.
That JACOB GRAFIUS, ROBERT FARIES, WILLIAM WILSON ESQ., JOSEPH B. ANTHONY,
ABRAHAM UPDEGRAFF, JAMES ARMSTRONG, FRANCIS C. CAMPBELL, SAMUEL H. LLOYD,
ELLIS LEWIS, JOHN CUMMINGS, ASHER DAVIDSON, THOMAS W. LLOYD, JOHN BENNETT
JR., HEPBURN M'CLURE, HENRY D. ELLIS shall be a corporation for the purpose
of insuring their respective dwelling houses, stores, shops, barns and all
other buildings, farming stock and household furniture, merchandise and all
other property against loss or damage by fire. 9 Jun 1840.
231. An act to incorporate the Stockholders of Mineral Spring, of Berks County.
That the persons who now constitute the owners and stockholder, near the
borough of Reading, are declared to be a body politic and corporate and to be
capable of holding and enjoying all that tract of land situate in Alsace
Township, Berks county, bounded by lands of JOHN N. LANE, WILLIAM WEIMER, and
others, purchased by them of CATHARINE KESSLER. The present managers of the
company shall be DANIEL HERR, JOSEPH H. SPAYD, HENRY A. MUHLENBERG, JOHN
GREEN and BENNEVILLE KEIM. That C.G. CHILDS of Philadelphia and DILLER
LUTHER, JOHN GREEN and HENRY HIGH are appointed commissioners for receiving
subscriptions to the stock. 9 Jun 1840.
234. An act to incorporate the Great Island Bridge company.
That WASHINGTON DUNN, HUGH PENNY, WILLIAM MORRISON, JOHN FLEMING, GEORGE
CRAWFORD, ROBERT M'CORMICK, RANDOLPH W. EVANS, JAMES GAMBLE, JOSEPH M. GREEN,
and JOHN GALLAHER are hereby appointed commissioners for erecting a bridge
over the West branch of the river Susquehanna where the public highway
leading from the town of New Liberty to Lock Haven, crosses through the Great
Island, in the county of Clinton. 11 Jun 1840.
236. An act to incorporate the President and Managers of the Rimersburg and
Mahoning Turnpike Road company.
That JOHN RIMER, DANIEL STOP, OLIVER GRAY, ROBERT D. LAWSON and JOHN P. BROWN
of the county of Armstrong are hereby appointed commissioners. 11 Jun 1840.
238. An act incorporating the Youghiogheny Insurance Company at West Newton,
Westmoreland county.
That ALEXANDER PLUMER, JAMES B. OLIVER, JAMES BELL, BENJAMIN STEWART, JOSEPH
BUDD, JOHN BENNETT, M.P. SMITH, WILLIAM BROOKENS, ARCHIBALD B. MCGRAW and
JAMES GAFFEY of Westmoreland are authorized to open subscription books in the
town of West Newton for the capital stock. 11 Jun 1840.
243. An act to incorporate a Female Seminary in Landisburg, Perry county, and
for other purposes.
The board of trustees, not to exceed seven, are JOHN JUNKIN, SAMUEL A. MOORE,
HENRY FETTER, JAMES DIVEN SR., PETER HENCH, JOHN STAMBAUGH, and JAMES MCCLURE,
are hereby declared to be a body politic and corporate.
That STEPHEN LLOYD and JAMES RHEY of Cambria county, JAMES BARD of Indiana
county, DAVID FERGUSON of Clearfield county, and JAMES WINSLOW of Jefferson
county are hereby appointed commissioners to view, lay out and mark a state
road, beginning at the town of Ebensburg, Cambria county, thence to the town
of Punxatawne, Jefferson county. 12 Jun 1840.
244. An act for the relief of SAMUEL MCCALL, and others, soldiers and widows
of soldiers of the Revolutionary war.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to Samuel McCall of
Butler county, JAMES FORSYTHE of Allegheny county, ABNER LONGSHORE of
Cumberland county, JOHN REES of Philadelphia county, JAMES HAYS, ROBERT
DONOUGH, and JACOB COON of Greene county, PETER HAGE and PHILIP SMITH of
Beaver county, JACOB ESSICK and RICHARD BAKER of Perry county, JOHN ROSS of
Morris county, New Jersey, and WILLIAM RITCHEY of Allegheny county, MARY
RANSALL and JOHN ALLEN of Butler county, MARK COYLE and JACOB SHEETS of
Washington county, in the state of Maryland, soldiers, and to MAGDALENA MOORE
of Lebanon county, MARY BATTIN of Philadelphia county, MARY STEVENSON of
Butler county, MARTHA MCCUNE of Franklin county, MARY HEISLY, MARY GOSSLER,
and SARAH CURRIE of Lancaster county, BARBARA BOWERS and ELIZABETH STEWART of
Armstrong county, ANNA MARIA CALHOUN, NANCY MILLER of Centre county, and
CATHARINE HORNSHER of Montgomery county, and CATHARINE LEITHEISER of Stark
county, in the state of Ohio, widows of soldiers of the revolutionary and
Indian wars, forty dollars each immediately as a gratuity, and an annuity of
forty dollars each during life, to be paid half yearly, commencing on 1 Jan 1840.
That the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to JOHN YOUNG of Venango
county, JONAS COLESTOCK of Fayette county, HENRY KEISER of Montgomery county,
JACOB ALLUM of Bucks county JOHN HOFFMAN of Montgomery county, ALEXANDER
CLARK, DAVID ROLLYER of Crawford county and SAMUEL POLLOCK of Beaver county,
forty dollars immediately as a gratuity, in full for military services
rendered by them in the revolutionary and Indian wars.
So much of the third section of the act of 16 Apr 1840, as grants a gratuity
and annuity to JOHN MCILNEY of Bedford county, is hereby repealed.
Whereas, the act of 12 May 1839, granted a pension and gratuity to ROBERT
HANNAH, in which he is erriously described as a citizen of Venango county,
Robert Hannah being a citizen of Jefferson county. Therefore the said
pension and gratuity shall be paid to Robert Hannah, of Jefferson county, the
person intended by this act. 12 Jun 1840.
246. An act to incorporate the New Brighton Female Seminary in the county of
Beaver.
That there shall be established for the education of female youth, n the arts
and sciences and useful literature a female seminary of which ROBERT TOWNSEND,
M.F. CHAMPLIN, JOHN DUKEHART JR., JOHN WINTER, JAMES PATTERSON, T.L. SPEAR,
B.B. CHAMBERLIN, B.R. BRADFORD and AARON WILLIAMS are hereby appointed
trustees for one year. 12 Jun 1840.
247. An act to incorporate an Academy at Clarion in Clarion county.
The first trustees of the academy shall be AMOS WILLIAMS, HUGH MCGUIRE,
LINDSAY C. PRITNER, ROBERT POTTER, GEORGE B. HAMILTON, PETER CLOVER SEN.,
JOHN H. GROVE, WILLIAM B. FITZHUGH and CHARLES EVANS shall be a body
incorporate and politic. 12 Jun 1840.
248. An act to incorporate St. Peters' Church, in the borough of Uniontown,
Fayette county.
That JOHN DAWSON, MATHEW IRWIN, L.W. STOCKTON, WILLIAM P. WELLS, WILLIAM
WALKER, WILLIAM AUSTIN and WILLIAM B. ROBERTS are hereby erected into one
body politic and corporate in deed and in law, and trustees of the church for
one year. 12 Jun 1840.
249. An act to incorporate the Lutheran and German Reformed Church at
Wellersburg, Southhampton Twp. in Somerset county.
That CHARLES UHL and SAMUEL GAUMER, members of the Lutheran and PETER REIBER
and JOHN KENNEL, members of the German reformed side be trustees to continue
in office for one year. 12 Jun 1840.
250. An act concerning bastardy and divorce.
That WILLIAM HUGHES of Towamensing Twp., Montgomery county, who was convicted
in the court of Quarter Sessions, at Nov. sessions, 1837 of being the reputed
father of a bastard child, born of SARAH WHITE, and sentenced by the court to
pay to her a weekly allowance for the maintance of said child, is hereby
authorized from time to time, to pay such sum in advance for any time not
less than six months, nor more than one year, to the clerk of said court, or
to a justice of the peace residing in said township, who shall on demand pay
the same to the person entitled thereto, and the payments so made to the
clerk or justice of the peace shall exonerate and discharge William Hughes
from all actions and proceedings during each time, provided within five days
he give notice of payment to the person entitled to said sums.
That the marriage contract entered into by ANDREW V.S. AMERMON, and MASSY
AMERMON, his wife, late MASSY LEONARD, both of the county of Lycoming, is
hereby annulled and the parties released from the contract, and all duties as
fully as if they had never been joined in marriage. 12 Jun 1840.
251. An act regulating election districts and for other purposes.
The qualified voters of the township of Cumberland Valley, Bedford county,
shall hold their general elections at the new school house erected on land of
the heirs of JOHN WHIP.
The general and special elections for the township of Dallas, Luzerne county,
shall be held at the public house of MILES C. ORR, in the village of
M'Lellonsville.
That the electors of Snow Shoe township, Centre county, shall hold their
general and township elections at the school house, situated on the Milesburg
and Smethport turnpike road, adjoining the farm of SAMUEL ASKEY.
The section of the act passed 14 Apr 1840, concerning the township of
Menallen in the county of Adams, with elections being held at the house of
CHARLES MYERS in Bendersville is hereby repealed and elections will now be
held at the same place as formerly, at the public house of JOHN BURKHOLDER
(formerly, MISS HAPKES)
That the farms of PHILIP HILGARD and JOHN DAVISON situated within the limits
of the borough of Milton, Northumberland county, bounded on the north by
lands of DAVID MILLER, east by lands of PHILIP FOUST, south by lands of
ROBERT H. HAMMOND and on the west by the West Branch of the Susquehanna,
containing 250 acres, also the farm of David Miller and JOHN DAVIDSON
situated in the borough, south by land of Philip Hilgard containing 154
acres, also the farm of FLEMING M. POLLOCK situated in the borough, bounded
north by lands of ALEM MARR, east JACOB HOWER, JOHN SAMPLE, and JOHN STADDEN
on the south by Washington road, west the farm of WILLIAM MCCLEERY, bounded
north by lands of Alem Marr containing 35 acres, are hereby separated and
taken out of the limits of the borough of Milton.
That the section of the act passed 14 Apr 1840 concerning Franklin Twp.,
Fayette county, is hereby repealed, and the qualified electors are hereafter
required to hold their general elections at the house of JOHN DUNN.
That the township elections in the township of South Whitehall, Lehigh
county, shall be held at the house of JOHN SHARER.
That the general election of Limestone Twp., Lycoming county, shall be held
at the house of PETER EPLER.
That it shall be lawful for the qualified voters of Cumberland Twp., Greene
County, to hold their election at the house now occupied by JAMES CAIN in
Carmichaeltown.
That the electors of Shrewsbury Twp., Lycoming county, shall hold their
general election at the house now in the occupancy of JOHN TAYLOR.
That the qualified voters residing within the bounds of Monroe township,
Bedford county, shall hold their general election at the house of DAVID EVANS
in Clearville.
That the electors of Haverford Twp., Delaware county, shall hold their
election at the house of ANDREW STEEL.
That the qualified voters of Napier and Londonderry townships, Bedford
county, residing within the following bounds: Kinton's Knob to the bridge
south of JOHN KINTON's, thence to JOHN MOWREY's farm, then to the Somerset
line including JOHN KELLY's farm, and thence from the point of the ridge at
ADAM SMITH's farm to Swaggert's gap, to the Napier line, to include JOHN
KELLERMAN'S house and exclude the house of JACOB G. DEVORE, shall hereafter
hold their elections at the school house west of JOHN METZGAR's.
That the part of Lower Swatara Twp. Dauphin county, starting at the residence
of DANIEL SMITH, thence to PETER ROOP's, thence to CHRISTIAN GOOD's fulling
mill, and then to the residence of SAMUEL NEIDIG's, shall hereafter form a
part of Swatara township, and so much of the resolution passed 18 Mar 1840 is
hereby repealed.
That the general elections in Rush twp., Susquehanna county, shall be held at
the house of ALANSON LUNG.
That the general elections in the township of Huntingdon, Luzerne county,
shall be held at the counting house of GEORGE BOWMAN.
That the territory contained within the following boundaries, in the township
of Lykens, Dauphin county, shall hereafter form a separate school district:
Wisconisco Twp. line due east from the dwelling house of JACOB LAUDENSHLAGER,
north east to the dwelling house of GEORGE MEYER, westwardly to JACOB
KISSINGER's building, south west to CHRISTIAN ESTERLING's dwelling house,
south west to MICHAEL WILVER's dwelling house, south to the Wisconisco Twp.
line.
All that part of Rockhill Twp., Bucks county, lying between the township of
Hilltown and Rockhill in a direct line leading past JACOB DILL's farm, north
directly opposite the house of ABRAHAM HELLER of Richland Twp. is hereby
erected into a separate election district to be called East Rockhill and to
hold their general election at the public house now occupied by JACOB WORMAN.
The commissioners named in the act passed 14 Apr 1838 appointed to receive
and expend money appropriated to improve the state road from Currinsville,
Clearfield county, through the towns of Indiana and Saltzburg in Indiana
county, through Westmoreland county to East Liberty in Allegheny county, are
hereby directed within 30 days after demand, to pay $500.00 to JOSEPH THOMAS,
HENRY KERR and LEVY ROBERTS to be by them expended in improving the state road.
The Canal Commissioners are hereby authorized to examine into the condition
of the barn of JOHN WEBSTER, situate in Downington, Chester county, near the
Philadelphia and Columbia railroad, and also his dwelling house and if liable
to injury by fire from the locomotives, they are hereby authorized to remove
and rebuild at a proper distance or pay necessary sum for John Webster to do
so. If a building is necessary for an office or dwelling house for the
collector at Downingtown and if said dwelling house would be suitable they
are hereby authorized to purchase the same, if a price can be agreed upon.
13 Jun 1840.
253. An act to incorporate a company in the borough of New Castle, to be
called the New Castle Fire Company, Mercer county and for other purposes.
That WILLIAM B. MILLER, DANIEL M'CONNELL, R. WALLACE, G. BARLOW, JAMES
MITCHELL, W.M. CLYMONDS, J.B. LOVE, T. M'CLEARY, ROBERT COCHRAN, WILLIAM
WATSON, WARREN CARPENTER, JOHN WILSON, JOS. T. BOYD, JACOB BAKER, R.W.
STEWART, JAMES WATSON, GEORGE HUDSON, S.W. SWIFT, MICHAEL CARMAN, ALEXANDER
NEWELL, L.L. MCGUFFIN, JOHNSTON WILSON, WILLIAM COX, SAMUEL COCHRAN, H.R.
GREAVES, WHITE MCMILLEN, JOHN FRAZIER, JOSHUA LOGAN, JOHN KECK, J.S. QUEST,
JOSEPH B. WILLIAMS, A. ROBINSON, WILLIAM MCMILLEN, JOSEPH KISSICK are hereby
declared to be one body politic and corporate. 13 Jun 1840.
254. An act to authorize the United States to erect buildings.
That the jurisdiction fo the State of Pa. is hereby ceded to the United
States of America, for the purpose of erecting and maintaining arsenals,
magazines and other necessary buildings over tracts of land lying and being
in the town of Oxford, Passyunk Twp., County of Philadelphia bounded as
follows: Tacconny road north to low water mark in Frankford, thence to land
conveyed to JOSEPH KIRKBRIDE and back to beginning. And the tracts as set
forth in the deed executed by ELIZABETH SOBER et al to JAMES MCHENRY, 6 Jul
1790 being on west side of road leading from Philadelphia to Gray's ferry in
Passyunk Twp., with a corner belonging to the heirs of WILLIAM SHIPLEY dec.
thence to the corner of OWEN JONES' land, then to beginning.
That GEORGE M. LAUMAN, JOSEPH BRESTEL, and DANIEL DETWEILER, are hereby
authorized to construct a wing dam, from the land now owned by Detwiller,
into the Susquehanna river, at the Swatara ripples, and to use the water for
manufacturing purposes. 13 Jun 1840.
255. An act concerning a street in the town of Stoystown, Somerset county.
Whereas, the inhabitants of the town of Stoystown, Somerset county, on 23 Aug
1815, entered into a written agreement with MAJOR GEORGE GRAHAM, another
citizen and lot holder that he be allowed to close up and build upon a street
in the town, called Water Street, running between lots #20 on the west, and
#22 on the east, on condition George would open and keep in good repair a
street in lieu of Water Street, thus to be enclosed off his lot #22 for the
use of the public. Immediately, after agreement was made he had erected upon
the site of Water street, on Main Street a large two story dwelling house,
attached to the tavern house for upwards of 24 years, without any objection
made by anyone. George is now dead, and the property has descended to his
heirs under his will, therefore, for the purpose of preventing any one from
instituting proceedings in the name of the commonwealth, against the owner of
the ground and building, it is enacted that is shall be unlawful for any one
to cause any manner of action against the owner, provided the owners do
hereafter deep open and in good repair for public use, the street 35 feet
wide, opened by George Graham in lieu of Water street. 13 Jun 1840.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution authorizing the payment of the claim of SAMUEL R. RICHARDS.
Whereas, by an act passed 14 Jun 1839, the canal commissioners were required
to examine and settle the accounts and claims of Samuel R. Richards, a
contractor on the Kiskiminitas and Conemaugh division of the Pa. Canal.
Whereas no provision was made for the payment, the State Treasurer is hereby
authorized to pay to Samuel R. Richards the sum of $3500.00, which sum is due
upon the settlement of accounts and claims. 18 Jan 1840.
2. Resolution extending the time for the settlement of the accounts of
commissioners for improving the State Road, in Wayne county, from Caukin's to
the Delaware river, appointed by an act passed 14 Apr 1838.
Whereas, MOSES THOMAS, GEORGE BUSH, WILLIAM H. DIMMICK, JACOB KILLAM, and
WARNER M. PRESTON were appointed commissioners to lay out land for the
construction a state road near the New York state line, and as the
commissioners have proceeded to the faithful discharge of their duties, but
owing to the non fulfilment of some of the contractors, they are unable to
comply within the time specified, therefore the final settlement of accounts
is extended one year from 1 Aug 1840. 28 Jan 1840.
4. Resolution requiring the settlement of the accounts of the Paymaster
General of the Volunteers, in the service of the commonwealth in December 1838.
That the Paymaster General and Disbursing officer of Volunteers, COL. T.B.
TOWN, is hereby required to audit and settle all matters pertaining to the
Quarter Master General for services.
Became law without signature of governor. 10 Feb 1840.
6. Resolution relative to the election in the Borough of West Greenville.
That WILLIAM G. FELL, JOSIAH M'PHERIN and JOHN SERVICE, are hereby authorized
to hold the election of the township in the borough of West Greenville, Mercer
county, on Friday 3 Mar 1840. 10 Mar 1840.
8. Resolution for the relief of the representatives of the late JAMES S.
STEVENSON.
Whereas, it hath been presented that the late James S. Stevenson, in the year
1829, being President of the Board of Canal Commissioners of this
commonwealth, was by reason of the neglect of his predecessor to return his
vochers, induced to pay upon estimate of the resident engineer the sum of
$400.00 to T.P. BROWER & CO. contractors upon the western division of the Pa.
canal for work done. and upon subsequent settlement of the accounts of his
predecessor it appeared that the claim had been fully satisfied by him, and
by reason whereof the payment was not allowed to Stevenson, and still remains
open and suspended on the books as a charge against Stevenson. Therefore, The
Auditor General is hereby authorized to place to the credit of James S.
Stevenson on the books of his office, the sum of $400.00 as paid by him in
his official capacity. 11 Mar 1840.
10. Resolution erecting the borough of Middletown, Dauphin county, into a
separate election district, and for other purposes.
That the electors shall hold their general elections at the house now
occupied by CHRISTIAN CASLOW.
That the township elections in theunincorporated part of Penn Twp.
Philadelphia county, shall be held at the house of MICHAEL PRAY, corner of
Braod street and Turner's lane.
That for the purpose of holding elections the borough of Reading, Berks
county, shall be divided into four wards. The electors of the north east
ward shall hold their elections at the public house now occupied by JOHN
MILLER, the electors of the north west ward shall hold their elections at the
house now occupied by JOHN L. REIFSNYDER, the electors of the south west ward
shall hold their elections at the public house now occupied by GEORGE
GERNANT, and the electors of the south east shall hold their elections at the
public house now occupied by WILLIAM RAPP. Except for elections the borough
shall be taken to consist of only two wards as heretofore.
That part of Swatara Twp. Dauphin county, commencing at the west end of the
bridge over Swatara creek at Nissly's mill, thence to the residence of DANIEL
SMITH, thence to CHRISTIAN ROOP's thence to SAMUEL NEIDIG's thence to the
river Susquehanna at the line dividing the farms of CHRISTIAN MUMMA and JOHN
HAGEY, and then to the York county line by the lower end of Shriner's Island
shall form a separate election district and township to be called Lower
Swatara, and the electors shall how their elections at the house now occupied
by CHRISTIAN CASLOW in the borough of Middletown. 18 Mar 1840.
11. Resolution for the relief of BERNARD CONNELLY JR.
Whereas patents issued upon application of Bernard Connelly Jr. for a tract
of land warranted in the name of JOHN LANDERS on the 5 Oct 1838, also on
warrants issued in the name of JACOB RAMSPERGER on 11 Apr 1839. Whereas
certificates were furnished the land office previous to the issuing of the
patents of appraisement and the lands having been appraised and valued at a
sum not exceeding four dollars per acre exclusive of buildings, therefore the
owner was exempt from the payment of interest. Through inadvertance interest
was charged to the amount of $43.59. Therefore the State Treasurer is hereby
authorized to refund Bernard Connelly Jr. the amount overpaid. 18 Mar 1840.
13. Resolution for the relief of GEORGE MASON.
By an act approved 12 May 1839, the state treasurer was directed to pay to
ISAAC MASON of Clearfield county, a soldier of the Indian war, a gratuity of
forty dollars and an annuity of forty dollars, to be paid half yearly during
life. As an error was committed by designating the individual intended to be
relieved by the name of Isaac Mason of Clearfield county instead of George
Mason of Crawford county, his real name and residence. The State Treasurer is
hereby authorized to pay to George Mason of Crawford county, a soldier of the
Indian war, the sum of eighty dollars, as a gratuity and pension for the year
1839 and an annuity of forty dollars during life, to be paid half yearly, to
commence on 1 Jan 1840.
That so much of the fourth section of the act passed 20 May 1839 as relates
to the granting of a gratuity and an annuity to Isaac Mason of Clearfield
county is hereby repealed. 28 Mar 1840.
17. Resolution providing payment for Judge Advocates of Courts Martial and
for other purposes.
There is no provision made by the law for the payment of Judge Advocates of
Courts Martial and J.K. FINDLAY and CHARLES M'CLURE have recently acted in
the capacity of Judge Advocates assembled at Carlisle, for the trial of MAJOR
GEN. SAMUEL ALEXANDER, and of MAJOR SAMUEL ALEXANDER, CAPTAIN JNO. M'CARTNEY,
and LIEUTENANT A.. CREIGH and cannot receive a compensation for their
services. Therefore, the state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to J.K
Findlay $250.00, and Charles M'Clure $125.00 as a compensation for their
services, and to charge the same to the account of the Brigade Inspector of
the first brigade, eleventh division, Pa. militia.
That the Brigade Inspector of the second brigade, sixteenth division, is
hereby authorized to cancel and deliver up the bonds given by members of the
Erie Guards and Erie Artillery, for muskets, on their delivering to him the
muskets now in the possession of said companies, and he is also directed to
pay to CAPT. JAMES B. LOUGHEAD the amount of expenses incurred by him in
recovering state arms, stolen from the arm house of the Erie Artillery, in
the borough of Erie. 6 Apr 1840.
18. Resolution providing payment of the claims of JACKSON MCFADDEN, and for
other purposes.
An act passed 13 Apr 1838 required the canal commissioners to examine and
settle the claim of Jackson M'Fadden, a contractor for lock #2 on the
Lycoming line, west brance division of the Pa. canal, for damages sustained
in construction of said lock. That State treasurer is hereby authorized to
pay to Jackson M'Fadden, $735.00 which appears to be due upon settlement of
his account and claims.
The canal commissioners are hereby authorized to cause the damages sustained
by JACOB STICKLER, in consequence of the location of the railroad lately made
to avoid the inclined plane at Columbia through his lands to be assessed and
paid and they are also authorized to have the dwelling houses of Jacob
Stickler in West Hempfield Twp. near Columbia which are now in danger of
destruction by the location of the railroad near them covered with zinc or
slate to secure them from fire from the locomotive engines. Upon the
assessment of the damages the canal commissioners are authorized to transfer
and convey to him all right and title of the commonwealth lately conveyed by
Jacob Stickler to the commonwealth, and the ground taken by the railroad
adjoining the same together with the depot and other buildings erected on
said tract of land at the head of the plane, at such value as may be agreed
upon by the parties in payment of the damages and in case they cannot agree
the commissioners shall the same at public sale for the best price they can
obtain for the payment of said damages. 7 Jun 1840.
19. Resolution for various purposes.
That the expenses of the Commissioners appointed by an act passed 14 Apr 1838
to survey and lay out a road from HENRY PETERS' to RODOLPHUS BINGHAM's, in
Pike county, be paid and settled agreeably.
That the section of an act to erect the town of Alexandria, Huntingdon
county, into a borough and to increase the boundaries of the borough of
Milton, passed 4 Apr 1831 is hereby repealed, and the farm of JOHN SAMPLE,
situated within the limits of the borough of Milton, Northumberland county,
bounded north by lands of JACOB HOWER, east by lands of GEORGE KUTZ, south by
lands of ANDREW FOLMER and SIMON FOLMER and west by JOHN M. HOUSEL's lands,
containing 80 acres, 6 perches, and also the farm of SAMUEL HEPBURN, now in
the occupation of JOHN STADDEN, situated also within the limits of the
borough, containing 92 acres, 58 perches, extending from Locust alley east to
lands of SAMUEL MORRISON and others, south from the Washington road to lands
of PHILIP FAUST and others, are hereby separated and taken out of the limits
of the borough of Milton and attached to the township of Turbut, and the part
of the act which included the farms is hereby repealed. 9 Apr 1840.
23. Resolution authorizing REBECCA H. DUNCAN, THOMAS DUNCAN, and BENJAMIN S.
DUNCAN, to pass the bridge at Duncan's Island, free of toll, and for other
purposes.
That Rebecca H. Duncan, Thomas Duncan, and Benjamin S. Duncan, owners and
occupiers of an island in the river Susquehanna in Halifax twp., Dauphin
county at the mouth of the Juniata river, be permitted to pass the tow path
bridge from the island to the eastern shore of the river Susquehanna and back
free of toll. These privileges are granted as full compensation for any
damages done to them, occasioned by the location and construction of the
bridge and the Pa. canal.
That RICHARD BATTURS, of the city of Philadelphia, late of the firm of
Batturs, Okie and Co. is hereby licensed as an auctioneer of the said city,
for the period of four months and eighteen days to be computed from the time
he shall re-commence business as an auctioneer with the powers and privileges
conferred by the license granted to him for one year, bearing date 31 Jan 1839
and not used by him for the last four months and eighteen days, procuring the
consent of the remaining partners of the late firm of Batturs, Okie and Co.
14 Apr 1840.
25. Resolution concerning real estate.
That the four deeds executed by CATHARINE STRABAN, administratrix, with the
will annexed of GREGORY STRAHAM, late of the city of Philadelphia, dec. to
CHARLES STRAHAN, now of the city of Washington, and late of the city of
Philadelphia, are hereby confirmed as fully as if the Orphan's court had been
vested with jurisdiction in the premises at the time of making the order or
decree.
That the Orphan's Court of Bucks county is hereby authorized to direct
security by mortgage on real estate to be given by ANDREW BRUNNER for the
payment over to his children at his death of such share of his deceased wife,
MAGDALENA BRUNNER in the estate of her father who died intestate, as he is
entitled to the interest of during his natural life, and upon giving such
security, to direct the money be paid to him.
That JOHN NEILSON, late cashier of the bank of Swatara, is hereby authorized
to attend to the collection of the outstanding claims of the bank, and he is
authorized to pay to THOMAS MASTERSON, out of the proceeds of the real estate
of Masterson, when sold under the process of the bank, a sum not exceeding
$500.00, and whenever from time to time John Nielson shall receive moneys on
the claims he shall report the same to the Common Pleas of Dauphin county,
who shall appoint an auditor to distribute the same amoung the stockholders.
That JAMES PAUL, trustee of RACHAEL PAUL, under the last will and testament
of PHEBE KNIGHT, late of Bensalem Twp. Bucks county, dec. is hereby
authorized to sell all bank, lot or piece of ground situate on the west side
of Water street, between Market and Chestnut sts. in the city of
Philadelphia, bounded by ground of DAVID WINEBRENNER, JOSIAH DAWSON and JAMES
M'GILL, and to make good deeds of conveyance to the purchaser who shall be
discharged from any trust whatsoever as declared by the will in favor of
Rachael Paul or her children.
That Clearfield town, Clearfield county, si hereby erected into a borough,
bounded by: Susquehanna river, sixty feet south of Walnut St. thence east to
HUGH LEVY's out lot so as to include the houses and lots now occupied by DR.
H. LORAIN and JOAN POWELL, thence north to Walnut St. etc.
Whereas, THOMAS PROCTOR, high sheriff fo the city and county of Philadelphia,
conveyed real estate: two lots in the Northern Liberties, of the city of
Philadelphia, by deed dated 7 Mar 1785 to MATTHEW CLARKSON, and he by a
declaration of trust in writing, dated 4 Jan 1786, recorded Deed book E.F.,
#7, pg. 659, declared that he held the same in trust, for himself and WILLIAM
BALL, as joint purchasers, and whereas money for the property has been paid by
William Ball and Mathew Clarkson has since departed this life, without
conveying the property to William Ball, and WILLIAM W. BALL, and GEORGE B.W.
BALL are entitled to the lots, under the will of William Ball. The heirs are
anxious to acquire a proper title, and are unable to ascertain the names of
all the descendants of Mathew Clarkson, by reason of the removal of some of
them out of this commonwealth. The court of Common Pleas is hereby authorized
on the filing of a bill in equity, by William W. Ball and George B.W. Ball, to
issue a writ of subpoena, directed to the sheriff who shall serve the same on
such of the parties, as can be found by him within his bailiwick and to give
notice by publication in the daily newspapers, then the court shall render
judgement and appoint a master and to direct him to make and deliver deeds.
That ANDREW J. KAUFFMAN, ISRAEL BRADY, and GEORGE RUPLEY, are hereby
authorized to sell and convey the Union Bethel Meeting House, in the borough
of Columbia, Lancaster county, together with the lot of ground where on it
now stands and to execute a deed to the purchaser.
That the board of property, upon application by the heirs of SAMUEL MEREDITH,
whose lands fell within the State of New York, on running the north boundary
line between this state and the state of New York, shall ascertain the amount
paid by Samuel Meredith for the lands and the state treasurer shall deliver a
certificate for the sum plus interest to the heirs and enter a credit in his
book which may be transferred to any person or used in taking out new
warrants in any part of the state where land may be found, or in payment of
arrears of former grants.
That the time for opening books of subscription provided for in the act to
make a turnpike to connect the Williamsport and Elmira railroad, with the
Blossbur and Painted Post railroad, is hereby extended to 2 Sep 1840; that
THOMAS B. PATTERSON, JOHN G. BOYD, and THOMAS DYER of Tioga county, and
ROBERT ALLEN of Lycoming county, be added to the commissioners heretofore
appointed, and the title of the company shall be Blossburg and Ralston
turnpike company, which shall commence at Blossburg in Tioga county and
terminate at Ralston in Lycoming county. 21 Apr 1840.
27. Resolution authorizing the payment of the claim of REUBEN WINSLOW, of
Chester county.
By an act passed 13 Apr 1838, the board was required to examine and settle
the claim of Reuben Winslow, for damages on the Columbia and Philadelphia
railroad. The state treasurer is hereby authorized to pay to Reuben Winslow
of Chester county the sum of $1000.00 upon the settlement of his claims for
damages. 29 Feb 1840.
28. Resolution for the relief of OKEY HENDRICKSON, attorney in fact for
GEORGE MCDOWELL, and for other purposes.
That the Canal Commissioners are hereby authorized to draw their warrant on
the state treasurer for the amount awarded 5 Nov 1838 to Okey Hendrickson,
attorney for George McDowell for damages sustained by the construction of
the Beaver division of the Pa. canal, in Mercer county.
That the board of trustees of the Greensburg Academy, in the borough of
Darlington, Beaver county, shall be reduced to nine, and that GEORGE SCOTT,
A.B. BRADFORD, MATHEW ELDER, JOSEPH FRAYER, JAMES COCHRAN, GEORGE GREER,
DAVID GILLILAND, HUGH MARTIN, and JAMES SPROTT to be elected according to
their act of incorporation.
The Canal Commissioners are hereby authorized to examine the claim of JAMES
FRAZIER, a contractor on the Erie extension, at lock #26, and lock section
#216, and settle and pay him having a due regard to the provisions of his
contract and the amount of work actually done.
That the canal commissioners are hereby authorized to examine the claims of
JAMES H. JOHNSTON, a contractor on the Gettysburg railroad, for losses in the
construction of a spoil bank by contract.
Whereas the road to avoid the inclined plane at Columbia, is located so near
the barn of MICHAEL KAUFFMAN, of West Hempfield Twp., Lancaster county, as to
render it almost impossible to escape conflagration from sparks emitted by the
locomotives, therefore, the canal commissioners are hereby authorized the
situation and condition of the barn and if necessary cause the barn to be
removed to such situation, more remote from the railroad, as will secure it
from the danger of being burned by the locomotives, or pay such sum as
adequate compensation for removing or securing the same.
That the canal commissioners are hereby authorized to enquire into the claim
of damages sustained by ENOS ELDRIDGE, transporter of produce on the
Philadelphia and Columbia railroad, from the Green Tree to Philadelphia, by
the destruction of his horse caused by an engine coming in contact with the
same Mar 1839, and if damages were due to negligence and inattention of the
agents in charge and without negligence on the part of the claimant to pay
the same. 28 Mar 1840.
31. Resolution concerning real estate, and for other purposes.
That the Auditor General is hereby authorized to settle and adjust the
accounts of JAMES LYONS, treasurer of the board of commissioners, appointed
by the act of 15 Apr 1834, directed the sale of lots in the town of Beaver,
by which the state was allowed 5 per cent of money collected.
That CATHARINE L. COOK of the city of Baltimore, in the state of Maryland, in
her 20 year of age, is hereby authorized to unite with her brothers and
sisters and mother in conveying and releasing all right and title to about 54
acres in Roaring Creek Twp. Columbia county, to JOHN HUGHES and BENJAMIN
HUGHES, and upon receipt of the purchase money, Catharine L. Cook is hereby
authorized to make and execute conveyances on her part for the transfer of
the property as if she was of full age. 29 May 1840.
33. Resolution relative to the Birmingham and Elizabeth Turnpike road and for
other purposes.
That from the passage of this act, the qualified electors residing in the
part of Mifflin Twp., Columbia county, erected into a separate election
district, called Paxton, by an act passed 1 Apr 1836. The first election
shall be held at the house of ADAM MICHAEL, under the direction of WILLIAM
MOAN, DAVID DAVIS JR., and JONATHAN BRETTENBENDER.
That the Canal Commissioners are hereby authorized to examine the claim of
THOMAS PLUES, late a contractor on the Erie extension of the Pa. canal for
damages by him by reason of the abandonment of his several contracts, and to
pay the amount of damages, if any due. 9 Jun 1840.
36. Resolution relative to the claim of AMOS ADDIS, and other purposes.
Whereas, Amos Addis, late a contractor on section #12, Tioga line, North
Branch canal, has suffered great loss because of a solid cemented gravel or
hard pan, as difficult to excavate as rock itself, for which he received only
13 cents per cubic yard, and has abandoned the job, precluding any appeal for
relief without authority to do so. The Canal commissioners are hereby
authorized to examine the claim of Amos Addis for additional compensation for
work already done. 13 Jun 1840.
FRS. R. SHUNK, Secretary of the Commonwealth.