History of Butler County Pennsylvania, 1895

Link to plat maps of Butler townships and boroughs from the Atlas of Butler County, G.M. Hopkins & Co., 1874. Please read the explanation and caution about this transcription. Use your browser's "search" or "find" capability to look for surnames in the chapter that are not included as biographical sketches. Transcribed by:

PHILIP SCHAUL, son of Sigismond and Minna SCHAUL, was born in the town of Buk, Province of Posen, Prussia, August 1, 1866, and came to the United States with his parents in 1874. They settled at Hornellsville, New York, where he was reared and received a common school education. He began clerking in the clothing house of Simon Turk, and in 1885 went into the clothing business as a member of the firm of Schaul Brothers, at Hornellsville. In 1890 the firm of Schaul Brothers & Company was formed and located in Butler, and continued in the clothing trade until 1893, when our subject formed a partnership with Philip NAST, purchased the interests of Schaul Brothers and organized the present firm of Schaul & Nast. This store is one of the largest of its kind in this section of the State, and the largest clothing, hat and gent's furnishing goods establishment in Butler county. Mr. SCHAUL is a member of Ziegler Lodge, I.O.O.F., and of Clement Encampment, and is connected with Tent, Number 34, K.O.T.M., also with Butler Lodge, Number 170, B.P.O.E.

PHILIP NAST, son of Meyer and Etta NAST, was born at Schusk, Prussia, in October, 1851, and came with his parents to Seneca Falls, New York, in August, 1861. He sold goods in his father's store, and also traveled on the road in the same capacity. In 1890 he came to Butler as a member of the firm of Schaul Brothers & Company, which was succeeded in 1893 by the present firm of Schaul & Nast. Mr. NAST was married on July 29, 1890, to Sarah, a daughter of Rev. Sigismond SCHAUL, of Hornellsville, New York, and has two children, Max and Etta. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, and one of the progressive business men of the community.

JAMES P. AIKEN, son of Alexander AIKEN, of Wurtemburg, Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, was born in that village on October 12, 1826. He received a good education, and followed school teaching and farming. He was a justice of the peace for three terms, associate judge of Lawrence county for two terms, and served many years as a member of the school board. In 1855 he married Nancy J. FREW, a daughter of David FREW, of Slippery Rock township, Lawrence county. Eight children were born to this marriage, as follows: David L.; Agnes, wife of Charles RHODES; Elsie M., wife of James E. CAMPBELL; Thomas W.; Elizabeth C.; James A.; Annie, wife of Luther CLARK, and Edna. Mr. AIKEN and wife are members of the United Presbyterian church, and died on October 12, 1892, and November 20, 1893, respectively.

DAVID L. AIKEN was born on the homestead at Rose Point, Lawrence county, September 27, 1856, and was educated in the common schools, at Edinboro State Normal, and at Duff's Commercial College, graduating from the latter institution in 1884. The following year he came to Butler, and subsequently embarked [p. 776] in general merchandising, as a member of the firm of Aiken & Campbell, which is still carrying on the same business. He was married on November 12, 1880, to Mary V., daughter of Maj. James H. KLEIN, of Slippery Rock township, Lawrence county, to which union have been born three children, viz.: Lillian, deceased; James C., and Hazel J. Mr. AIKEN is a member of Company E, Fifteenth Regiment, N.G.P., and served with his company in the Homestead riots. Politically, he is a Republican, is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and is connected with the I.O.O.F., K.of P., and the K.O.T.M.

JAMES E. CAMPBELL, son of Edward and Lavina CAMPBELL, was born in Hickory township, Lawrence county, June 6, 1858, attended the common schools of his district, and followed farming and the plasterer's trade. After reaching his maturity, he embarked in the mercantile business at Grant City, Butler county, and was postmaster of that place. In 1888 he entered the firm of Aiken & Campbell, and has since been engaged in merchandising in Butler, as a member of that firm. On June 30, 1881, he married Elsie M., a daughter of James P. AIKEN, of Lawrence county, and has five children, viz.: James E.; Roy A.; Lela; Frank H., and Clarence E. Mr. CAMPBELL is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics a Democrat. He is connected with the K.of P. and the W.of W. The firm of Aiken & Campbell is interested in oil producing, and also stockholders in the Armory Building.

PETER MANGOLD was born in Buffalo township, Butler county, August 11, 1862, son of John and Caroline MANGOLD. He was reared in his native township and at Freeport, and received a public school education. He afterwards followed mining in California, Colorado and Idaho until November, 1887, when he returned to Butler county and started a bakery in this borough. He sold out in 1889, and then purchased the grocery store of Charles MINNICK, which he has since carried on. Mr. MANGOLD was also in the ice business, which he disposed of to D.H. SUTTON. He was married January 10, 1888, to Anna M. KLINE, of Allegheny township, Westmoreland county, and is the father of three children, viz.: George, deceased; Clara May, and one that died in infancy. Politically, he is a Republican.

JOHN GEORGE MUNTZ, a native of Germany, there married Christina RAPP. They immigrated to the United States, arriving at Baltimore, Maryland, July 4, 1804, proceeded to Columbiana county, Ohio, and finally to Harmony, Butler county, Pennsylvania, where they were among the first to build a home, in March, 1805. In 1806 they bought a tract of land in Beaver county, and lived there until Mr. Muntz's death, by accident, on June 4, 1812.

JOHN G. MUNTZ, youngest child of John George MUNTZ, lived on the farm in Beaver county until the spring of 1820, when he joined his brother Henry, and they carried on a store at Zelienople, Butler county. In the fall of 1826 he went to Natchez, Mississippi, to fill the position of general manager of a store, whence he returned to Zelienople. In 1835 he was appointed postmaster at that place, which position he held until 1840, and then embarked in the mercantile business at Pittsburg, where he continued until 1854. He then located at Butler, and opened a general store on the site of the Boos building, where he carried on business until 1861. In that year he commenced the coal business, and was exten-[p. 777] sively engaged in mining down to 1871. He was then elected justice of the peace, and was re-elected in 1876, which office he held at the time of his death, April 12, 1880. He was an ardent Democrat, and an active and prominent worker in the party. Throughout his long residence in Butler he was a prominent member of the English Lutheran church, and also took a deep interest in the prosperity of the public schools, being a member of the school board for a number of years. Mr. MUNTZ married Mary B. NEGLEY, a daughter of John NEGLEY, one of the first settlers of Butler, to which union were born five children, viz.: Mary A., wife of W.H.H. FITHIAN; Annie E., and Emeline, both of whom died in infancy; John N., and Catherine R., widow of Judson G. CRANE. Mrs. MUNTZ resides in the old homestead on South Main street.

JOHN N. MUNTZ, only son of John G. and Mary B. MUNTZ, was born in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, reared and educated in Butler, and served an apprenticeship at the printer's trade, which he followed for a few years. In 1872 he commenced operating in coal, which has since been his principal business. Mr. MUNTZ was married in 1886, to Mary D., daughter of the late John P. KRAMER, a banker of Allegheny. They are the parents of three children, as follows: John P.; Edward K., and Richard.

JOSEPH COULTER was born in Fermanagh county, Ireland, in 1817, a son of Henry and Sarah (CARSON) COULTER. His parents immigrated to the United States when he was a young man, and settled in Franklin township, Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, where they died. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and afterwards spent one year in the wholesale grocery store of his brother Henry, in Pittsburg. He then went to Memphis, Tennessee, where he was employed as a salesman in the wholesale house of R.A. Parker & Company four years, and later was connected for two years with a branch of the same firm at New Orleans. On his return from the South, he opened a general store at Wurtemburg, Beaver county, which he carried on for a short period. In June, 1847, he located at Unionville, Butler county, opened the first general store in that village, and conducted it successfully forty-four years. He was also extensively engaged in farming and was postmaster of Unionville for many years. Mr. COULTER was maaarried in July, 1859, to Margaret A. McCLEARY, to which union were born five children, as follows: Annie, wife of Thomas F. WILEY, of McKeesport; Joseph H.; William, deceased; John C., and Margaret. Mr. COULTER was one of the founders of Unionville Presbyterian church, and contributed liberally of his means towards that organization. He was a stanch Democrat, and took an active interest in the success of the measures and principles of his party. In April, 1891, he retired from active business, removed to Butler the following June, and died on September 20, 1891.

JAMES SELLERS was born in Cuyahoga county, Ohio, June 27, 1828, son of Robert Sellers, a native of Yorkshire, England. His father was a tailor, and was married three times, his second wife being the mother of four children, viz.: Thomas; Mary A., who married Captain DUNBAR, of Cleveland; Robert, and James, all of whom are dead. In 1826 the family immigrated to Cuyahoga county, Ohio, where Mr. Sellers worked at his trade, and also carried on the merchant tailoring in Cleveland, where his wife died in 1830. He mar-[p. 778] ried for his third wife a Mrs. OGRAM, a native of England, who bore him two children, Elizabeth, wife of Solomon SMITH, and Jeffery, who was drowned in Frazier river, British Columbia. He died in the fall of 1859. The subject of this sketch worked on a farm for many years, and when twenty-one years of age went to California, and spent thirteen years in the gold mines. In 1864 he came to the oil country and the following year located in Franklin, where he carried on the livery business for ten years, and afterwards conducted the same business at Millerstown, until the spring of 1882. He then located in Butler, conducted a livery stable for a year and a half, and then purchased the Eitenmiller House. He ran this hotel until March, 1893, when he sold it to F.S. CLARK, and retired from active business. Mr. SELLERS was married on November 16, 1866, to Melvina J. Lindsey, of Franklin, and was the father of two children, Frank and Charles. Politically, he was a Republican, was a member of the K.of P., of Millerstown, and also the A.O.U.W., of which he was past M.W.

PHILIP DAUBENSPECK, son of George and Elizabeth DAUBENSPECK, was born on the homestead in Parker township, Butler county, August 28, 1829, and grew to manhood beneath the parental roof. In 1851 he married Nancy SCOTT, a daughter of James SCOTT, of Fairview township, and in 1854 he purchased the REEP farm, consisting of ninety-seven acres, which he sold in 1861 and purchased the William BARNHART farm. He resided in Fairview township until 1884, and then removed to Butler, where he had purchased a house and a lot of twelve acres of land within the limits of the borough. He has since devoted his principal attention to dealing in real estate. Mr. DAUBENSPECK is a deacon in the Reformed church, and was the largest contributor towards the erection of the new church building in Springdale. Politically, he is a Prohibitionist. He is one of the wealthy, substantial citizens of his native county.

WILLIAM BORLAND was born east of the mountains, in 1799, and was reared upon a farm in Butler county, where his parents settled when he was a child. In 1818 he married Annie FREEMAN, of Butler township, to which union were born thirteen children, viz: James; Lucinda, who married Abner BARTLEY; John; Margaret, who married Ellis RUSSELL; William; Rachel, who married W.C. GLENN; Mary J., who married Thomas ARMSTRONG; Lydia A., who married Thomas D. CHRISTIE; David F.; Nancy, who married Thomas GRAHAM; Martha; Samuel, and one that died in infancy. Mr. Borland and wife were members of the United Presbyterian church, in which he filled the office of elder for many years. In politics, he was a Democrat. He died in 1867, and his wife in 1843.

DAVID F. BORLAND was born in Butler township, Butler county, March 11, 1834, and was reared upon his father's farm. On April 7, 1858, he married Frances J. RAMSEY, a daughter of William RAMSEY of Butler township, and has five children, as follows: William J.; John S.; Emma J., wife of J.B. ARGYLE; Charles E. and Lynn D. The last mentioned was born in Butler township, December 23, 1867, and in 1883 entered the dry goods store of Ritter & Ralston, and has continued in the same establishment down to the present. He is a member of the Connoquenessing Lodge, I.O.O.F., of which he is P.G., and also of the Clement Encampment, and is connected with the B.P.O.E., of Butler. David [p. 779] F. BORLAND is a member of the United Presbyterian church. In politics, he is a Democrat, and has filled the offices of school director, overseer and supervisor. He is engaged in farming and in the dairy business.

JOHN MICHAEL ZIMMERMAN is well remembered as one of the prominent citizens of Butler during his residence here of half a century. He was born at Goeningen, in the Kingdom of Wurtemburg, Germany, in June, 1802, the eldest in a family of five children, and obtained a fair common school education. In 1816 he accompanied Martin J. REIBER to Holland, where they purchased a supply of bulbs and flower seeds, and establishing their headquarters at Moscow, Russia, traveled over that empire disposiing of their goods, also through Turkey, Egypt, and other eastern countries, as well as the southern nations of Europe. A severe illness in the fall of 1824 compelled Mr. ZIMMERMAN to return home, and he did not resume his business until the spring of 1826. The following two years he spent in selling his seeds over his former routes. After a brief rest at home, he laid in a supply of flower bulbs and seeds, and crossing the Atlantic located at St. Louis, Missouri, and spent nearly two years selling goods through the southern states and portions of Mexico. In 1830 he returned to Germany, but the following year he again visited this country, bringing with him a supply of seeds, besides a number of old fashioned wooden clocks so familiar in pioneer days, which he sold in the principal towns of the northern states and Canada. Returning to Germany once more, he brought with him his wife and child to Philadelphia, and in 1832 came westward to Butler county, settling on the old BRINKER farm, in Summit township. In 1833 he moved into the borough of Butler, taking charge of the tavern which then stood on South Main street, where Miss Sarah McQUISTION now resides. About 1838-39 he bought the old Rising Sun tavern, later known as the Vogeley House, which he carried on until 1847-48, when he sold it to William VOGELEY, and purchased the Pennsylvania House, where the present Willard Hotel now stands. He conducted business here until 1868, then sold the property to Benjamin JACK and retired to private life. Mr. ZIMMERMAN married Mary B. VATTER, a native of Wurtemburg, Germany, to which union were born fourteen children, eight of whom grew to maturity, as follows: Mary, deceased; Margaret, wife of Walter L. GRAHAM; Jacob, and Annie, both deceased; Catharine, widow of Charles McCANDLESS; Caroline, wife of Capt. Samuel WALKER; George M. and Frederica, wife of H.A. WISE. Mr. ZIMMERMAN died in 1876, and his wife in 1883. They were Lutherans in religion, and he took quite an active part in the erection of the old German Lutheran church, of Butler. In politics, he was a Democrat, filled the office of county treasurer one term, and served in the borough council for several years.

Dr. GEORGE M. ZIMMERMAN, son of John Michael ZIMMERMAN, was born in Butler, November 18, 1842, he received his primary education in the public schools, afterward attended Witherspoon Institute, and graduated from Washington and Jefferson College in 1867. He commenced reading medicine with Dr. WEAVER of Canonsburg during his senior year, and after graduation he continued his studies under Dr. Stephen BREDIN, of Butler. He attended lectures at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, in 1867-68, and was graduated at Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, in March, 1870. He began [p. 780] practice in Butler, but removed to Hubbard, Ohio, in the spring of 1871, and in 1872 went to Winona, Minnesota. In 1873 he returned to Butler, where he has continued in active practice up to the present, having been also interested in a drug store during this period. Dr. ZIMMERMAN is a Republican, and has served as a school director for three years. Since 1866 he has been connected with Butler Lodge, Number 272, F.& A.M. He was married in August, 1876, to Mrs. Jennie E. RALSTON, a daughter of Charles E. RITTER, of Allegheny. Four children have been born to this union, viz.: Mamie G.; Sadie; Frederick M., and John Donald.

BENJAMIN JACK was born in Worth township, Butler county, Pennsylvania, in 1823, received a common school education, and followed farming until 1858, when he came to Butler and took charge of the old Lowry House. He carried on this hotel for three years, then returned to Worth township and continued to farm until 1864, when he purchased the present Lowry House, which he conducted until 1868. He then purchased the Zimmerman Hotel, now the Willard, where he died, February 12, 1877. After his death the property was sold to Robert BARRON. Mr. JACK was married in 1853, to Hannah, daughter of John KELLY, of Parker township. They were the parents of six children, as follows: John S.; Annie E., wife of L.B. ROESSING; Benjamin H.; William P.; Clara A., and James P. Mrs. JACK resides with her son, John S. She is connected with the Presbyterian church, to which denomination her husband belonged. In politics, he was originally a Whig and then a Republican, and was an enterprising business man.

JOHN S. JACK, eldest son of Benjamin JACK, was born in Worth township, Butler county, January 5, 1855. He received a common school education, and clerked in his father's hotel until the death of the latter. He subsequently became book-keeper for J.G.& W. Campbell, with whom he remained until April 1, 1893, when he purchased the book and stationery store of Norbert T. WESER, which he has since carried on successfully. Mr. JACK is a member of Connoquenessing Lodge, and Clement Encampment, I.O.O.F., and in politics, he is a Republican.

HOWARD THOMPSON was born in Nova Scotia, Canada, November 21, 1852, son of John and Elizabeth (MURRAY) THOMPSON. In 1868 he located in Venango county, Pennsylvania, where he found employment in the oil field. In 1872 he came to Butler county and engaged in oil producing, in which business he has been very successful. In 1890 he formed a partnership with John D. BROWN, purchased the Hotel Lowry, and conducted it until July 31, 1894, when they leased the property and took charge of the McClure House, Wheeling, West Virginia. Mr. THOMPSON is still largely interested in oil producing in the Pennsylvania and Indiana fields. In 1878 he married Alice WATTERS, of Martinsburg, Butler county, to which union, one son, Arthur, has been born. Mr. THOMPSON is a Republican in politics, and is a member of the Butler Lodge, F.& A.M.

JOHN D. BROWN was born at Monroeville, Buffalo township, Butler county, October 7, 1858, son of Thomas and Sarah (HOOVER) BROWN, and grandson of John BROWN, an early settler of Butler township. He obtained a good education in the public schools of his native township and at Freeport, and in 1878 entered [p. 781] the employ of George W. CAMPBELL, as hotel clerk. He remained with Mr. CAMPBELL until 1887, when he engaged in the torpedo business and later in oil producing, which he continued until 1890. In that year he formed a partnership with Howard THOMPSON, and purchased the Hotel Lowry, which the firm of Thompson & Brown conducted very successfully until July 31, 1894, when they leased the property and took charge of the McClure House, at Wheeling, West Virginia. In 1879 Mr. BROWN married Zilla CAMPBELL, a daughter of George W. CAMPBELL. She died February 11, 1887, leaving five children, viz.: Carrie; Blanche; Nellie; Claude, and Charley. In politics, Mr. BROWN is a Republican. He is a member of the Masonic order, and is connected with the Lodge, Chapter and Commandery. He is also a member of the Connoquenessing Lodge, I.O.O.F., and the R.A.

WILLIAM HENRY REIHING was born in the borough of Butler, Pennsylvania, in March, 1861, son of Jacob and Ann (KORN) REIHING. His father was a native of Germany and his mother of Pittsburg. He was reared in Butler until his eighteenth year, and then went to Pittsburg, where he remained several years. He there met Miss Mattie C. GOLDEN, a daughter of Timothy GOLDEN, of that city, whom he married in September, 1882. Three children were born to this union, viz.: Harry; George, and Edna. Soon after his marriage he returned to Butler and entered the employ of George W. CAMPBELL of the Willard Hotel. A year later he leased the property, carried on the business a couple of years successfully, and then purchased it. In 1891 he rebuilt the old structure and fitted it up in first class style, spending $30,000 on improvements. The new hotel at once took rank with the leading houses of western Pennsylvania, a position it still retains. After reaching this prosperous and successful stage in his career, Mr. REIHING was taken ill, and died February 22, 1892. He was born and reared a Catholic, and died in that faith, to which he had ever given a generous support. Whole-souled and charitable to a fault, he possessed hosts of friends, while his enterprise and public spirit were unbounded. He was connected with the B.P.O.E., and one of the most popular members of Butler Lodge. Mr. REIHING was a good husband, a kind father, a warm friend and a generous supporter of everything calculated to benefit his home.

FRANK S. CLARK was born in New Wilmington, Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, December 1, 1845, and is a son of George H. and Mary E. CLARK, both of whom died in that town, in 1867 and 1893, respectively. His father was born in York, Pennsylvania, in 1811, and was a tailor by trade. He settled at New Wilmington, Lawrence county, at quite an early day and engaged in merchant tailoring, and afterwards in general merchandising. He there married, in 1834, Mary E., daughter of Francis SCOTT, of New Wilmington, to whom were born five children: Mary L.; William A.; Frank S.; Elizabeth, and George P., the last two of whom are dead. Mr. CLARK was a Whig, and afterwards a Republican, and was at one time postmaster of New Wilmington. He was a member and steward of the Methodist Episcopal church of that borough. The subject of this sketch learned the carriage blacksmith's trade, at which he worked eighteen years; he subsequently embarked in the agricultural implement trade in Iowa, and went on the road as a traveling salesman. In April, 1891, he located in But-[p. 782] ler, as a member of the firm of Loveless & Clark, oil well contractors, subsequently purchased Mr. Loveless's interest, and carried on the business alone until March, 1893. At that time he purchased the Diamond Hotel, changed the name to the Park Hotel, and fitted it up with modern improvements. Mr. CLARK married Jemima THOMPSON December 20, 1865, who died in 1878. On September 8, 1880, he married Louie, daughter of John LOCKE, of Iowa. In politics, he is a Republican, is a member of the Lodge, Chapter, and Commandery in the Masonic order, and is also connected with I.O.O.F., and B.P.O.E.

J.H. FAUBEL was born in Monroe county, Ohio, November 15, 1858, son of George H., and Anna (BAKER) FAUBEL, natives of Bremen Hesse, Germany, whence they immigrated to Ohio. His parents removed to West Virginia in 1864, where our subject was reared and educated. He then went to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and took a clerkship in the Red Lion Hotel, in 1879, and the following year leased the house and carried it on for two years. He then leased the Hamilton Hotel in the same city, and conducted it for seven years. In 1888 he came to Butler and leased the Vogeley House, carried it on for three years, and then sold his interest and went to Wheeling, West Virginia, near where he located on a stock farm of 500 acres, known as the Virginia Stock Farm, which he had purchased in 1885. He is still engaged in the breeding of standard trotting horses, imported and American and Clydesdale houses, and Holstein and Friesian cattle. In 1892 he purchased the Eitenmiller Hotel, which he remodeled, and changed the name to the Hotel Butler, and is its present landlord. Mr. FAUBEL is a member of the Butler Land and Mining Company, of the Marshall County Oil and Coal Company, of West Virginia, and of the Sportsman Association of Cheat mountain, the latter State. He has been interested in the development of the oil fields and owns valuable interests in that industry. He is a member of the Masonic order, also of the I.O.O.F., K.of P., and B.P.O.E. In politics, he is a Republican. He was married in 1879, to Alice E., daughter of William Fitz PATRICK, of Bellaire, Ohio, and has two children: Zuleika L., and Charlotte I.

WILLIAM J. MCCAFFERTY, youngest son of John and Mary A. (MURRIN) McCAFFERTY, was born on the old homestead in Parker township, Butler county, March 16, 1862. He received a common school education, and lived with his parents until reaching the age of nineteen years, when he embarked in the oil business in Bradford county. He subsequently returned to Butler, Pennsylvania, and engaged in the livery business, also conducted the bus-line, in which he continued four years. Selling out his stock he engaged in oil producing and later opened a restaurant. In 1891 he formed a partnership with D.F. McCREA, under the firm name of McCafferty & McCrea, and established a wholesale liquor house, and in August, 1894, they became proprietors of the Hotel Lowry. Mr. McCAFFERTY has always been an active Democrat, and while a resident of Parker township was chairman of the township committee. Although he has never sought public office, he has always contributed liberally in time and money toward the success of his party. He was married June 16, 1886, to Anna J., daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (COLLINS) CONWAY, of Crawford county, Pennsylvania, and both he and wife are members of St. Paul's Catholic church. He is a mem-[p. 783] ber of Branch, Number 56, C.M.B.A., and is also connected with Butler Lodge, Number 170, B.P.O.E.

ALEXANDER WILLIAMS was born at Kittanning, Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, May 19, 1861. His father, Wilson WILLIAMS, was a native of the same place, born in 1834, and a molder by trade. He was also a pilot on the river for many years. He married Henrietta, daughter of Alexander McKINLEY of Indiana, Pennsylvania, in 1860, who bore him a son, Alexander. Wilson WILLIAMS enlisted in Company A, Eighth Pennsylvania Reserve, in which he served as orderly sergeant to the close of the war, taking part in all the battles fought by the Army of the Potomac. After his discharge from the service he returned home and continued his previous business as pilot on the river up to his death in 1870; his widow resides at Indiana, Pennsylvania. The subject of this sketch learned the trade of tinner, gas and steam fitter, and also that of jeweler. In 1881 he went into the music business, handling pianos, organs, and sewing machines, at Blairsville, Punxsutawney, Leechburg, Clarion, Titusville, Warren and North Clarendon. In 1885 he came to Butler and carried on the same business until October, 1893, when he embarked in the hotel business in a block which he erected in 1891, on South Main street. He was married February 18, 1890, to Mary Aba, daughter of Martin V. MOORE, of Middlesex township, Butler county, and has one son, James G. Blaine. Mr. WILLIAMS is a Republican, in politics, and a member of the Protestant Episcopal church.

JOSEPH CRILEY was born in Alsace, Germany, in 1818, and was but five years of age when his father immigrated to Butler county, and located on a farm in Butler township. He grew to manhood in this county, and received a public school education. In 1849 he married Catherine LAVERY, of Penn township. Fourteen children were born to this union, nine of whom grew to manhood and womanhood, as follows: Joseph, deceased; Nicholas; Francis; Mary, wife of Peter SCHILER, of Clearfield township; Catherine, deceased; John; Andrew; Jacob, and Jane. Mrs. CRILEY was a member of St. Peter's Catholic church, and died in that faith in 1877. Mr. CRILEY was a Democrat, and filled the offices of school director and other minor positions in his township.

NICHOLAS J. CRILEY was born in Summit township, Butler county, September 1, 1851, and was reared upon his father's farm. After receiving a common school education, he attended Witherspoon Institute, and graduated in 1868. He taught school in Evans City and in Summit township, was subsequently a salesman for Charles DUFFY, and then purchased the McIntire photograph gallery, which business he has since followed. He was burned out in the fire of 1878, but soon repaired his losses and continued in business. Mr. CRILEY was married May 15, 1883, to Miss Annie ALAND, of the East End, Pittsburgh, and has one child, Annie. Mrs. CRILEY was a member of the Catholic church, and died November 15, 1884. In 1888 he went into the oil business, and is still engaged in oil producing. He is a member of the Catholic church, and in politics, a Democrat.

GEBHARDT WAGNER was born in Deggingen, Wurtemberg, Germany, August 7, 1830, son of John and Francisca (SPAETH) WAGNER, natives of the same place. He was reared in Binsdorf, and received a parish school education. He afterwards learned the painter's and plasterer's trades, which he followed [p. 784] in his native land until June, 1854, when he immigrated to Butler, Pennsylvania. Here he has continued in the same line of business for more than forty years. Mr. WAGNER was married, August 4, 1856, to Josephine Fisher, a daughter of Martin and Helena (STEHLE) FISHER, also a native of Germany. Seven children have blessed this marriage, all of whom are living, viz: John A.; Helena V.; Martin C., a leading photographer of Butler; Joseph C.; Mary E.; Julia, wife of William LANZ, and Bertha E. The family are members of St. Peter's Catholic church, and in politics, Democratic. Mr. WAGNER has been fairly successful during the passing years, and is now enjoying the fruits of his industry. He is one of the oldest and most respected members of the German Catholic population of Butler.

JOHN MARTIN RIESENMAN was born in Frichtingen, Wurtemberg, Germany, December 3, 1831, son of John M. and Barbara (BURKER) RIESENMAN, natives of Germany. His father was born in 1786, and was a shepherd the greater part of his life. He was twice married. By his first marriage he was the father of five children, viz.: Jacob; Michael; Mary; Christina, and Catharine. His second wife was the mother of two children, as follows: John Martin, and Barbara, deceased wife of George YERGER. The father died in 1866, and the mother in 1874. The subject of this sketch was reared in his native land, and there learned the weaver's trade. In 1854 he immigrated to Pennsylvania and settled in Butler borough. He worked at gardening for a time and then entered the store of John Berg & Company, and later engaged in hauling goods from Pittsburg. He was afterwards employed for Roessing & Stein for two years and a half, and then purchased a team and hauled freight from Pittsburg for seven years. In 1873 he engaged in the wholesale grocery and feed business, as a member of the firm of Roessing & Riesenman, but after six years he sold out and again engaged in the teaming business, which he has followed down to the present. Mr. Riesenman was married in Butler, Butler county, by Rev. Father KILLIAN, January 3, 1855, to Dorothea KOHLER, a daughter of Joseph KOHLER. Six children have been born to this union, as follows: Joseph C., of Franklin; Belle B., deceased wife of Herman BERG, of Butler; Annie C., wife of William LIEBLER; John M., of Franklin; Mary M., and Josephine. Mr. RIESENMAN and family are members of St. Peter's Catholic church. In politics, he is a Democrat, and has served in the borough council.

DANIEL H. SUTTON was born in Penn township, Butler county, October 27, 1852, eldest son of John R. and Elizabeth SUTTON. He remained with his parents until 1868, when he accepted a position with the Citizens Traction Company, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, which position he held until 1877, and then embarked in merchandising at Maharg, where he continued in business until 1890. In that year he located in Butler and engaged in the ice business, which he followed up to the year 1895. On September 30, 1875, Mr. SUTTON was married to Lizzie ELDER, of Pittsburg. He has been quite active in political affairs, and is a leading member of the Democratic party. He is an adherent of the Presbyterian church, and is a member of Ziegler Lodge, Number 1039, I.O.O.F. Mr. SUTTON is one of the public-spirited business men of the community.

MARTIN EISLER was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, March 12, 1843, and grew to manhood in his native land. He learned the gardener's trade and fol-[p. 785] lowed that business in Germany until 1869, in which year he immigrated to Butler, Pennsylvania, where he has since made his home. He established the first greenhouse in the borough, and still continues the same business. In September, 1869, he married Emma KNOES, of Wurtemburg, who came with him to Butler. Ten children are the fruits of this union, viz.: Edward W.; Carl M.; Emma; Paul; Bertha; Mary; Albert; Margaret; Ernest, and Walter J. Mr. EISLER was a soldier in the Germany army for six years, and served in the war between Prussia and Austria. He is a member of the Lutheran church, and is secretary of the church council. Politically, he is an ardent Democrat.

EDWARD W. EISLER was born in the borough of Butler June 24, 1870, and has spent his entire life in his native town. He attended the common schools, and learned telegraphy in the Western Union office at Butler, in which he is at present an operator. In 1890 he engaged in the oil business, and is quite a successful producer, his perations being confined to the Glade Mills field. On October 5, 1893, Mr. EISLER married Luella WESTERMAN, of Butler. They are members of the Lutheran church, and he is an adherent of the Democratic party.

JOSEPH HAUCK was born in Bissingen, Hohenzoller, Germany, in 1833, there learned the tailor's trade and when about twenty years of age immigrated to Pennsylvania, and settled in the borough of Butler, where he continued to follow his trade. In 1854 he married Barbara NEBEL, a daughter of Wendolin NEBEL, of Summit township, to which union were born eight children, viz: John A.; Frank; Albert; William A.; Mary; Joseph R.; George, and Charles H. Mr. HAUCK was a member of St. Peter's Catholic church, and politically, a Democrat. He died February 5, 1885. His widow resides on the old homestead, which they purchased in 1870.

WILLIAM A. HAUCK was born in the borough of Butler, November 19, 1862, was educated in the public schools, and afterwards clerked in a drug store for three years. He then learned telegraphy, and has been manager of the Western Union office in Butler since 1887, one of the most important repeating offices between New York and Chicago. Mr. HAUCK is a stanch Democrat, and is a member of St. Peter's Catholic church.

JOHN C. MANNY was born in the borough of Butler, Butler county, Pennsylvania, February 18, 1837, and was a son of John J. and Frances (MANGLE) MANNY, early settlers of the town. He learned the moulder's trade in Pittsburg, and worked in that city for three years afterwards. In 1866 he returned to Penn township, Butler county, and engaged in the huckstering business, subsequently moved to Butler, and in 1875 went into freighting and draying, which he followed until his death. Mr. MANNY was married February 18, 1862, to Mary LAURENT, a daughter of Joseph LAURENT, of Butler township. Ten children were born to this union, viz.: Joseph F.; Frances B., wife of James MULHOLLAND, of Butler; Rose A., who first married Omer COLINET, and afterwards John CARNEY; John A.; Mary A.; Sylvester C.; Clara P.; Catherine H., and Lawrence A., the last six of whom died of diptheria, within six weeks, and Agnes M. Mr. MANNY was a life-long member of the Catholic church, to which denomination the family belonged, and was serving on the church committee when he died. Politically, he was a Democrat, and filled the offices of burgess, tax collector, [p. 786] high constable, and street commissioner of Butler. He died March 5, 1884; his widow is still a resident of the borough.

JOSEPH F. MANNY, eldest in the family of John C. and Mary MANNY, was born in Penn township, Butler county, February 24, 1863. He received a good common school education, and spent four terms at Witherspoon Institute. He was afterwards employed on the Pittsburgh and Western railroad, and next engaged in the freighting business, which he has continued up to the present. He married Annie E. WHISKAMAN, of Brady's Bend, Armstrong county, October 19, 1877, which union has been blessed by three children, as follows: Kathleen F., George J., deceased, and Anna M. Mr. MANNY is a member of St. Paul's Catholic church; is on the church committee, and is president of Branch No. 56, C.M.B.A. In politics, he is a Democrat, and a stanch adherent of Democratic principles.

RICHARD HUGHES, SR., was born in New York city, in 1797, learned the barber's trade in early youth, and in 1835 came to Butler, and engaged in the jewelry, clothing, livery and barber business. He was appointed county auctioneer by the Governor and filled that office for several years. On March 16, 1836, he married Maria BURKHART, and they became the parents of five children, viz.: James C., who served in the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers; Richard; Cornelius; Samuel G., who was a member of the One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and Aaron B., who served in the One Hundred and Third regiment. Mr. HUGHES was a member of the Protestant Episcopal church, and in politics, a Republican. He died on October 28, 1873, and his wife, July 11, 1878. They were among the early business people of this community.

RICHARD HUGHES was born in the borough of Butler, and learned the barber's trade with his father. In September, 1862, he enlisted in Company G, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Militia, and was honorably discharged at the end of his term of service. On March 2, 1881, he married Ida MARTIN, a daughter of John MARTIN, of Forward township, and has three children, viz.: Angenora; Twila J., and Eugene M. In 1869 he purchased the Dr. DeWOLF property on Main street, and erected his present business house and residence in 1872. The family are connected with the Protestant Episcopal church, and in politics, he is a Republican.

JAMES CRAYTON RAMSEY was born in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, in 1812, was educated at a subscription school, and learned the hatter's and moulder's trades, which he followed for many years. In 1834 he married Susan GRUBBS, a daughter of John GRUBBS, of Allegheny county, and settled in Butler in 1838. They were the parents of seven children, as follows: John, deceased; William; Catherine, wife of William J. MITCHELL; Mary, deceased; Frances A., wife of James OLIVER; Sarah, deceased, and James C. Mr. RAMSEY died in 1865. He was a member of the Covenanter church, and in politics, a Democrat. His widow resides with her daughter, Mrs. OLIVER.

JAMES C. RAMSEY, son of James Crayton and Susan RAMSEY, was born in the borough of Butler, February 8, 1854, attended the common schools of the town, and learned the barber's trade. In 1882 he began in business for himself, [p. 787] and still carries on the same on West Jefferson street. On March 9, 1881, he married Annie TINSTMAN, a daughter of Isaac TINSTMAN, of Butler county, and has two children, Bessie L., and Oliver J. Mr. RAMSEY is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and politically, an adherent of the Republican party. He is a member of the E.A.U., and the I.O.O.F., also of Company E, Fifteenth regiment, N.G.P. In 1886 he purchased the Samuel D. PURVIS property, upon which he erected his present residence.

JOHN LAWALL was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, there grew to manhood, and learned the wagonmaker's trade. He worked at his trade in Germany and France until 1845, in which year he immigrated to Butler, Pennsylvania. Soon after coming he opened a small wagon shop on Cunningham street, and built up through the passing years quite an extensive business. In later years he removed to the corner of Washington and Cunningham streets, and in 1872, began the manufacture of carriages and buggies on quite an extensive scale, which business he continued until his death, in November, 1877. He married Elizabeth FREDERICK, daughter of Peter FREDERICK, of Summit township, and a native of Germany. Four children were born to this union: John; Catharine, wife of George MILLER; Jacob F., and William, the last of whom died in childhood. Mr. LAWALL was a Democrat, and served in the council several terms. He was a member of the German Lutheran church, to which denomination his widow also belongs. After his death the business was carried on by his sons, John and Jacob F., until 1883, when they embarked in the livery business, which they have since followed.

WILLIAM M. KENNEDY, is a son of John D. and Jane (MAXWELL) KENNEDY, the latter a daughter of Abraham MAXWELL, one of the first settlers of Butler township, Butler county. Our subject was born June 1, 1858, in Jefferson township, Butler county, and received a common school education in the schools of Butler. He worked at the livery business until 1880, when he went to Troy, Ohio, and traveled for the fruit tree firm of Wilber McKNIGHT up to 1882, then returned to Butler and embarked in the livery business, first as Flick & Kennedy, then as Starr & Kennedy, and Crawford & Kennedy. In June, 1892, the firm of Bickel & Kennedy was established on West Jefferson street. Mr. KENNEDY married Ella, daughter of Edward HAYS of Penn township, Butler county, and has had three children: Jean; Belle, and Rachel, the last deceased. In politics, he is a Democrat, but takes no active interest in political matters. He is a member of the K.of P., K.of M., and the E.A.U.

ELI MAY was born in Whitestown, Butler county, June 16, 1858, and is the second son of Henry and Annie May. He received an English and German education, and followed farming until 1888. In that year he engaged in the livery business at Butler, as senior member of the firm of May & Albert, which he continued until November, 1893. He then sold out and bought the interest of Jean FORD, wholesale fish, oyster and poultry dealer, the firm now being May & Divel. Mr. MAY was married October 30, 1883, to Phoebe C., a daughter of Fred BURRY, of Butler, and is the father of three children: Gertrude L., deceased; Harry L., and Eva C. He is a member of the Lutheran church, is connected with the I.O.O.F., and in politics, he is a Democrat.

ROBERT J. GREGG was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1801, where he followed farming for many years. In 1840 he became weighmaster on the canal at Allegheny, and resided there until 1854, in which year he located in Butler county. He was married in 1823, to Alice HOGAN, a daughter of William HOGAN, of Washington county, and was the father of four children, viz.: John and Harriet, both deceased; William S., and Robert. The mother died in 1838, and the father, January 31, 1893. They were members of the Protestant Episcopal church, and in politics, he was a Democrat.

WILLIAM S. GREGG was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, September 3, 1831, son of Robert J. and Alice GREGG. He came to Butler county with his parents, and settled at Monroeville, where he kept hotel, and afterwards operated a hack line between Freeport and Butler. In 1886 he removed to Butler, where he continued the hack business in connection with a livery stable. Mr. GREGG was married in 1852, to Catherine KUHN, of Butler county. Ten children have been born to this union, as follows: John; Ralph; Ellen, wife of John WATERS; Harry; William, deceased; Isabel, wife of Charles BRENEMAN; Annie M., wife of John FULLERTON; Charles, and one that died in early youth. Mr. GREGG is a stanch Democrat, and is one of the industrious and energetic business men of the borough.

WARREN ALBERT, son of Andrew and grandson of Adam ALBERT, was born in Centre township, Butler county, September 13, 1859, and was educated in the common schools and at Witherspoon Institute. In 1886 he went into the livery business, at Butler, as a member of the firm of McCandless & Albert, afterwards changed to May & Albert, and in 1893 to Albert & Weigle, which firm is still carrying on the business. On April 12, 1886, Mr. ALBERT married Ada L. MILLINGER, a daughter of Perry SMITH, of Centre township, and has three children, viz.: Floyd W.; Ralph C., and Leora. He is a member of the Church of God, and in politics, a Republican.

JOHN M. WEIGLE, of the firm of Albert & Weigle, was born in Prospect, Butler county, December 6, 1861, son of Samuel and Barbara WEIGLE. He attended the common schools of the borough, learned the carpenter's trade, and in 1892 removed to Butler, and the following year became a member of the present firm. In May, 1889, he married Nanny ALEXANDER, a daughter of Robert ALEXANDER, of Muddy Creek township, and has one child, Karl M. Mr. WEIGLE is a Republican, and a member of the Lutheran church.

CONRAD ROESSING was born in Herchfeldt, Germany, October 5, 1804, and when fourteen years of age started in life for himself. Coming to the United States some years later, he commenced in business at Cobelskill, New York, with his brother Justus, but they were burned out and lost everything. After working for a company in New York state for a period, they went to Ohio and established a large tannery. Here his brother died, and Conrad sold the business, and in 1841 came to Butler. He erected a tannery on North Washington street, which he operated for forty-five years very successfully. In August, 1882, he established the business now carried on by his son, Barnhardt E., who became his partner on January 1, 1884, under the firm name of C. Roessing & Son. In May, 1886, Mr. ROESSING retired from active business, and the following year [p. 789] went to Pittsburg, where he is now living with his daughter. He married Martha A. HOOKER, who bore him a family of four children, as follows: Barnhardt E.; Dora, deceased; Dietrick, who resides in California, and Anna E., wife of H.O. STAHLEY, of Pittsburg. Mrs. ROESSING died on October 18, 1886.

BARNHARDT E. ROESSING was born in Butler October 23, 1852, eldest child of Conrad and Martha A. ROESSING. When sixteen years of age he entered his father's tannery and worked at that business until he was twenty-two years old, when he engaged in his present business with his father on Jefferson street. In 1888 he purchased his present business place, on North Main street, where he manufactures harness and deals in all classes of buggies, carriages, wagons and sleighs. Mr. ROESSING was married on December 17, 1885, to Anna J. GIBSON, a daughter of Harvey S. GIBSON, of Butler, and has two children: Edna A. and Harvey L. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, he is a Republican. He is connected with the Legion of Honor, of which he has been commander and collector, and is now treasurer.

JACOB WALTER was a native of Germany, born in 1815, near Strasburg, son of Jacob and Elizabeth (KECK) WALTER. He emigrated to the United States in 1835, and located in Butler, Pennsylvania. He was a blacksmith, and worked in Peter BAKER's shop, which stood on the site of J.Q.A. KENNEDY's residence, but subsequently removed to West Cunningham street, and built a shop on the site of Livington McQUISTON's residence. He carried on the principal business in that line for several years, but in 1859 he purchased the mill now owned by his son George, and in partnership with John C. GROHMAN embarked in the milling business, which he followed until his death. Mr. WALTER always took a deep interest in educational affairs, was a member of the school board, and connected with the borough council for twenty-five or thirty years. He was a Democrat in politics, and was quite active in local political circles. He was an elder in the Lutheran church for many years, and organized the first Sunday school connected with the German Lutheran church, which then stood upon the site of the old Opera House. Mr. WALTER married Mary, a daughter of Jacob LAWALL, to whom were born ten children, four of whom grew to maturity, as follows: Barbara, wife of Jacob BOOS; Maggie, wife of G. Wilson MILLER; Mary, deceased wife of William FEIGLE, and George. Mr. WALTER died September 11, 1865, and his wife, in the fall of 1892.

GEORGE WALTER, miller, was born September 11, 1843, in Butler, Pennsylvania, son of Jacob and Mary WALTER. He attended the public schools of the borough in his youth, and subsequently learned the miller's trade with his father, with whom he was afterwards associated, and at his father's death he succeeded to the business. In 1876 he was elected, on the Democratic ticket, sheriff of Butler county, but was deprived of his office after a bitter legal fight. He has filled the office of councilman for seven terms and that of school director for three terms. He is a prominent member of the Masonic order, and is also connected with A.O.U.W. In 1866 he was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Adam TROUTMAN, of Penn township. She died in 1874, leaving four children: Jacob A., a member of George Walter & Sons; Mary A., wife of E.O. CHAMBERS; Charles E., also a member of the firm, and G. Wilson, deceased. In 1876 Mr. [p. 790] Walter married Mary TROUTMAN, a sister of his first wife, who is the mother of one daughter, Kitty. Mr. WALTER is a member of the Christian church, and is one of the well-known citizens of Butler, where he has spent his entire life.

PETER SCHENCK, SR., was a native of Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, born in 1805. He learned the harnessmaker's trade in his native land, and subsequently served in the Prussian army. In 1832 he immigrated to the United States and settled at Harper's Ferry, Virginia, where he worked at his trade for a short time and then came to Butler county and purchased a farm in Summit township. In 1850 he bought a farm of 135 acres in Butler township, upon which he located. He was one of the many who went from Butler county to California during the gold excitement, whence he returned to his son's home in Butler stricken with Panama fever, of which he died the day after his arrival. He was married in Germany, in 1828, to Christina RIPPER, and had one son Adam. Both he and wife were members of the Lutheran church.

ADAM SCHENCK was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, June 30, 1827, and came to America with his parents when five years of age. He received a common school education, learned the shoemaker's trade and subsequently engaged in farming. He was twice married, his first wife being Catherine, daughter of John OESTERLING, of Summit township, whom he married in 1847. They were the parents of ten children: Christine, who married Adam DAMBACH of Summit township; Leonard; Margaret, deceased; George; Peter; Adam; Philip; John; William A., deceased, and Catherine E., deceased. Mrs. SCHENCK died in 1866, and in 1870 he married Catherine, daughter of Samuel KREPS, of Beaver county, of which union, three children were born: Annie M., wife of George OESTERLING; Elizabeth, deceased, and David. Mr. SCHENCK went into the boot and shoe business in Butler, as a member of the firm of Bickel & Schenck, which he continued until 1856, and then moved to the homestead farm, where he resided until his death, in 1881. His widow lives in Centre township. Mr. SCHENCK was a member of the Lutheran church, and an elder in that body for over thirty years. In politics, he was originally a Whig and afterwards a Democrat, and filled the offices of school director and supervisor. He was also a member of the I.O.O.F., and was at one time connected with the State Militia.

PETER SCHENCK, son of Adam and Catherine (OESTERLING) SCHENCK, was born in the borough of Butler, April 27, 1854, and received a common school education. He afterwards entered a draughting school in Allegheny City, where he also learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked five years and then returned to Butler. He was married May 7, 1878, to Julia A., daughter of Philip GELBACH, of Glade Run, to whom have been born three children: Ida L.; Erna S., deceased, and Florence K. Mr. SCHENCK is an architect, and a contractor and builder, and in connection with the firm of Schenck Brothers, built two churches at Harrisville, and one at Grove City; also the Diamond block, the Huselton and Anderson blocks, the Troutman and Armory buildings, in Butler, and St. Fidelis' College at Herman station. He was one of the incorporators of the Citizens Natural Gas Company, and is now president of the same. Politically, he is a Republican, and was a member of the town council and treasurer of the borough during the three years in which the paving and sewerage improve-[p. 791] ments were carried out, and took a very active part in these commendable improvements, which have made Butler one of the healthiest towns of its size in the State. Mr. SCHENCK and family are connected with the Presbyterian church.

GEORGE SCHENCK, son of Adam and Catherine SCHENCK, was born in the borough of Butler May 6, 1852, here grew to manhood, and learned the carpenter's trade with H. Bauer & Co., of Butler. He followed his trade for two years and then went into business for himself as a contractor and builder. He afterwards became a member of the firm of H. Bauer & Company, at Herr's Island, Allegheny county, and two years later returned to Butler and became senior member of the firm of Schenck Brothers. They dissolved in 1891, since which time Mr. SCHENCK has been carrying on business alone. He was married on June 1, 1876, to Mary L. FORCHT, a daughter of John and Margaret FORCHT, of Carbon Centre, to which union have been born six children, viz.: Charles G., deceased; Alfred A.; George O.; Margaret L.; Walter L., and Etta E. The family are connected with the Lutheran church, and he is a member of the church council. Mr. SCHENCK embarked in the oil business in 1890, and followed producing for one year. He is one of the well-known contractors and builders of the county, and among the buildings erected by him are the following: Springdale school, St. Peter's Catholic school, St. Paul's Catholic school and convent, the postoffice, Diamond, Huselton and Troutman blocks, the Stein, Aldinger, Baldauf, and Campbell & Templeton store buildings; also the Armory building, and the Scientific Hall at New Wilmington.

J. GEORGE STAMM, manufacturer of brick, was born at Schaffhausen, Switzerland, November 10, 1845, son of J. George and Barbara (STAMM) STAMM. He received a public school education in his native town, and emigrated to the United States in 1866. He learned the puddler's trade at Sharpsburg, Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, which he followed five years, and later acquired the brickmaker's trade, at which he worked until 1871. In that year he settled in the borough of Butler, where he was employed in the brickyard of Jesse KINZER and others until 1880, when he established a plant on Penn street. This he operated until 1882, and then opened his present yard in the western limits of the borough. In politics, he is a Democrat, and in February, 1891, was elected a member of the borough council, was re-elected in February, 1894, and is now president of that body. Mr. STAMM married Lucinda, a daughter of James HARVEY, of Prospect, Butler county, and is the father of six children, as follows: Clara J.; Gertrude B.; Lucy; J. George; Frank, and Nellie. The family are connected with the Presbyterian church. He is a member of the Butler Lodge, Number 272, F.& A.M., also of Butler Chapter, Number 273, and Pittsburg Commander and Consistory; also Connoquenessing Lodge, I.O.O.F., Butler Lodge, A.O.U.W., and Butler Lodge, Number 170, B.P.O.E.

GEORGE SCHAFFNER was born in Slippery Rock township, Butler county, Pennsylvania, December 17, 1841, and is a son of Jacob and Anna Maria (MARTIN) SCHAFFNER, natives of Bavaria, Germany. He received a common school education, and soon after the breaking out of the Rebellion he enlisted in Company H, Seventy-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was mustered into service at Camp Orr, Kittanning, September 17, 1861. From there the regiment [p. 792] moved by railroad to Pittsburg, where it was presented with a flag by Governor CURTIN, on the West Common, in Allegheny. It was assigned to General NEGLEY's brigade, was transported down the Ohio river to Louisville, Kentucky, and then marched to Bacon creek, and later to Greene river. The brigade was a part of General SHERMAN's command, who was there relieved by General BUELL. The latter advanced on Nashville, and the Seventy-eighth guarded Buell's line of communication while he went to re-enforce GRANT at Shiloh, and in the fall of 1862 fell back to Nashville, joined Negley's division and assisted in holding that city until the return of ROSECRANS' army from Kentucky, in December, 1862. The army was then re-organized and the Seventy-eighth was placed in the Eighth division, General NEGLEY commanding. On December 26, 1862, the army moved on the Stone River campaign, and in the battle of Stone River, the Seventy-eighth lost 196 in killed and wounded. The regiment captured the colors of the Twenty-sixth Tennessee, also a battery of four pieces that had been captured by JACKSON from the English at the battle of New Orleans, in 1815, and the flag of the Seventy-eighth was the first to float over the court house at Murfreesboro. While the regiment lay in that city, Mr. SCHAFFNER was detailed to guard the residence of Colonel REEDY, a father-in-law of Gen. John MORGAN, and captured the latter's sword, which is still in his possession. The regiment next went on the Tullahoma campaign, marched to the Tennessee river which it crossed on a pontoon bridge, thence across Lookout, Sand, and Raccoon mountains, flanking Chattanooga, the command hauling the artillery over the mountains when the horses gave out. The Seventy-eighth were the first troops to set foot on the soil of Georgia, September 8, 1863. Mr. SCHAFFNER was one of the one hundred men who at Dug Gap, Georgia, held the rebel army in check for four hours. (See Bates' History.) They next participated at Chickamauga, September 19, and 20, 1863, then fell back on Chattanooga and assisted in holding that town until the arrival of re-enforcements, suffering the starvation of that siege, after which they started on the Atlanta campaign. Mr. SCHAFFNER participated in all the battles of the Fourteenth Army Corps, and was shot through the right shoulder and left hand at Pickett's Mills, Georgia, May 27, 1864. He was sent to Kingston, Georgia, thence to Nashville, Tennessee, and afterwards to Pittsburg Hospital, where he was honorably discharged, October 12, 1864, his term of service having expired. He afterwards took a course at Duff's Commercial College, and kept books for Schnelbach & Schott, of Pittsburg, in 1866, and the same year came to Butler. He sunk the first coal shaft in Butler county, located south of Butler, in Butler township, which is still operated by his brother Samuel, and which proved a successful venture. Since that time he has followed general contracting. Mr. SCHAFFNER was married November 5, 1867, to Jane TRACY, a daughter of James and Mary TRACY, of Butler township. Ten children are the fruits of this union, as follows: Mary Cresentia, wife of John McCUNE, Jr.; James; Anthony J.; Clarence A.; William J.; Estelle G.; George; Alice; Charles, and Leroy, the last three of whom are dead. In 1868 Mr. SCHAFFNER was appointed United States gauger for the Twenty-third internal revenue district, and served nine years. In 1879 he became employed by the government on Davis Island dam, upon which he worked four years, being superintendent of the works [p. 793] the last two years. He is a Republican, in politics, has served in the council for six years, and is a prominent member of Encampment, Number 45, U.V.L., of which he was elected colonel in 1893. In October of the same year he was appointed, at Cincinnati, Ohio, adjutant general of the U.V.L., for the United States. In June, 1894, he was appointed by Governor PATTISON a member of the commission from Pennsylvania to locate the positions occupied by Pennsylvania troops at the battles of Chickamauga, Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, and Wauhatchie Valley. Mr. SCHAFFNER and family are members of St. Paul's Catholic church, and he is one of the well known citizens of his native county.

FREDERICK M. RENNO, manufacturer and dealer in monuments and mantels, was born March 27, 1842, in Butler township, Butler county, son of John and Margaret RENNO, the latter a daughter of Michael EMINGER, a soldier in the War of 1812. The subject of this sketch was educated in the common schools, and afterwards learned the moulder's trade, which he followed for fifteen years. In 1875 he engaged in the manufacture of monuments, etc., under the firm name of Renno Brothers, which continued for fourteen years. He then purchased his brother's interest, and has since carried on the business alone. In 1862, he enlisted in Capt. C.E. ANDERSON's company, but being under age they would not accept him. He nevertheless remained with the company, and participated in all of the engagements in which his regiment served until the death of Adjutant REED, when he was detailed to bring that officer's horse to his family in Butler. Mr. RENNO married Sarah, daughter of Peter KEIL, and has four children: Cora, wife of Joseph McCANDLESS; Carrie; Loretta C., and Albert; Politically, he is a Republican, but takes no active part in public affairs.

GEORGE J. RENNO, youngest son of John and Margaret RENNO, was born in Butler township, Butler county, June 19, 1852, and grew to maturity in this county. He was educated in the public schools, and subsequently went one term to Witherspoon Institute. He afterwards learned the marble cutter's trade, and in 1875 he became a member of the firm of Renno Brothers, which continued until December, 1888. At that time he sold his interest to his brother, and in August, 1889, went into business for himself, at 300 North Main street. On May 27, 1874, he married Louisa RIEGER, a daughter of George RIEGER, of Winfield township, and has seven children, viz.: Ida M.; George N.; Margaret L.; Edward J.; Frederick W.; Emma G., and Alma A. The family are connected with the English Lutheran church, and in politics, Mr. RENNO is a stanch Democrat.

J.W. McKEE, president of the Butler Manufacturing Company, was born November 18, 1845, in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, son of John and Mary A. (CRAWFORD) McKEE. He received a common school education and afterwards learned the molder's trade, which he followed for five years. He then engaged in carpenter work, afterwards removed to the oil fields of Venango and McKean counties, where he manufactured wooden wheels for oil wells until 1874, and then located at Freeport. He operated a planing mill at the last mentioned place for three years, when he went to Petrolia and entered the employ of his brother. In 1878 he returned to Bradford, McKean county, and resumed the manufacture of wooden wheels. In 1888 he came to Butler and erected the plant now known [p. 794] as the Butler Manufacturing Company, purchased stock in the company, and took charge of the foundry. Since that time he has filled different positions in the works and is now general manager of the company. Mr. McKEE married Miss Nellie MARCH of New Castle, Pennsylvania, and has one son, Vance F.

BENJAMIN MASSETH was born March 16, 1840, in Rochester, New York, son of Exavia and Mary A. MASSETH, natives of Germany, who settled in Rochester in 1835. He was educated in the public schools of his native city, and at the age of fifteen entered the employ of the New York Central Railroad Company, as bell boy, and later went to Ohio as an employee of the Toledo, Wabash & Western Railroad Company, as fireman. He subsequently became an engineer on that road, which position he occupied until 1862, when he erected the Pavilion Hotel, at Plumer, Venango county, Pennsylvania, which he operated for a few months. He then went to Pithole, Venango county, and purchased the United States Hotel, which he carried on for one year. In the spring of 1866 he embarked in his present business at Pithole, where he remained until 1869, and then removed his works to Shamburg, and afterwards to Parker, Modoc, Karns City, and Butler, successively. Mr. MASSETH has since built up a profitable business, and the firm of Masseth & Black is recognized as one of the representative manufacturing institutions of the borough.

WILLIAM KESSELMAN, manufacturer, was born in Saxony, Prussia, in 1832, was born in Saxony, Prussia, in 1832, son of Philip and Christina (LANDWHIR) KESSELMAN. He received his education in the public schools of his native land and there learned the machinist's trade. In 1856 he came to the United States and located in New Castle, Pennsylvania, where he was employed at his trade for seven years. He then became a partner in the New Castle Manufacturing Company, and subsequently established a machine shop at Parker, Pennsylvania, which he removed later to St. Joe. In 1881 he established his present business in Butler, where he has since built up a prosperous trade. In 1863 he married Miss Maggie MOSER, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, and their children are as follows: Edward; William; Lewis; Mintie, and Floyd. Mr. KESSELMAN is a Democrat, in politics, and in church affiliation, is connected with the English Lutheran congregation of Butler, in which body he fills the position of elder.

JOSEPH B. SHERMAN, son of Henry and Charlotte SHERMAN, was born at Crusoe Island, Cayuga county, New York, May 12, 1846, learned the machinist's trade in Auburn, New York, and went to Rochester in 1868, where he worked for the New York Central Railway Company until 1875. He then found employment as an engineer of a boat on Lake Ontario for one year. In 1876 he came to Butler county and located at Karns City, where he established a machine shop, and carried on business at that point down to 1890, when he removed to Butler and became a member of the firm of Sherman & Masseth. 1892 he sold his interest in that establishment and purchased a shop at Callery Junction, which he disposed of in 1893. He established his present machine shops at Butler, in the old Union Woolen Mill building, known as the Star Iron Works, in 1894. Mr. SHERMAN was married December 29, 1873, to Isabel WILLIAMSON, a daughter of Thomas WILLIAMSON, of Rochester, New York. Six children have been born to this union, viz.: Olive M.; Iva B.; Clifford W., deceased; Lulu M.; Florence [p. 795] A., and Josephine B. Mr. SHERMAN is a Republican, was burgess of Karns City for one term, and a school director for ten years. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and is connected with the K.of P., and the A.O.U.W. During a residence of nearly twenty years in Butler county, Mr. SHERMAN has been closely identified with its manufacturing interests in the oil fields, and is a progressive and public-spirited citizen.

JAMES W. HUGHES, of the firm of Hughes Brothers, proprietors of the Butler Boiler Works, was born in Meadville, Pennsylvania, April 23, 1864, son of Thomas and Bridget (HENRY) HUGHES, natives of Ireland. Our subject was reared in Franklin, Pennsylvania, and at the age of thirteen, commenced to learn the trade of boiler maker at the Franklin Boiler Works, and followed that business until 1891, in Buffalo, New York. He then located in Butler, and, in partnership with his brother John C., purchased the Butler Boiler Works, which they have since carried on successfully, under the firm name of Hughes Brothers. Mr. Hughes was married March 30, 1888, to Blanche STONEBURNER, of Indiana, and they have one child, Walter. He is connected with the Butler Lodge, K.of P., and in religious faith, is a member of St. Paul's Catholic church.

JOHN C. HUGHES, of the firm of Hughes Brothers, was born in Meadville, Pennsylvania, June 14, 1866, son of Thomas and Bridget HUGHES. He was reared in Franklin, Pennsylvania, and learned the boiler maker's trade at the Franklin Boiler Works. He has been connected with his brother James W., for nine years in his various business enterprises. He married Allie HOGUE, September 25, 1892. He is a member of Butler Lodge, K.of P., and both he and wife are members of St. Paul's Catholic church.

THOMAS J. SHUFFLIN was born in Arcade, Wyoming county, New York, December 7, 1855, son of John and Jane (MALONE) SHUFFLIN, and grandson of James and Nancy SHUFFLIN. His father was born in New York city, in August, 1832, married Jane MALONE, October 20, 1850, and settled at Arcade, Wyoming county, New York, where he still resides. His family consists of the following children: Anna, wife of P.H. SILLIMAN; Thomas J.; Christopher E.; Francis S.; John J.; Mary, wife of John REILLEY; Michael B., and Matthias V. The family are members of the Catholic church, and in politics, Democratic. The subject of this sketch received a common school education, and engaged in tank building and contracting. In 1878 he went into the oil business in the Bradford field, came to Butler county in 1886, locating at Millerstown, and the following year removed to Butler, where he has since been engaged in business, devoting his attention to the manufacture of tanks for the storage of petroleum, in which he has been quite successful. On February 5, 1889, Mr. SHUFFLIN married Mary Green, a daughter of Terence Green, of Arcade, New York. Politically, he is a Democrat, and is a member of the borough council. He is a member of the K.of P., of Millerstown, is a charter member and treasurer of the B.P.O.E., of Butler, and is president of the Butler Branch of the Metropolitan Loan and Savings Association. Mr. SHUFFLIN and wife are adherents of St. Paul's Catholic church, and he is one of the energetic and enterprising business men of the borough.

R.B. TAYLOR, contractor and oil producer, was born August 13, 1832, in Halifax, Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, son of James and Anna (BRYAN) TAYLOR. The Taylor family were among the early settlers of Dauphin county. The subject of this sketch was reared upon his father's farm until the age of sixteen, when he went to Jersey Shore, Lycoming county, where he learned the carpenter's trade, with Henry DIPPIE, serving four years. He then located at Lock Haven, and engaged in contracting, which business he carried on for four years, and then removed to Clearfield, where he continued the same business for eighteen years. From Clearfield he went to Reynoldsville, Jefferson county, in 1878, and carried on business at that point until his removal to Butler in 1884. Mr. TAYLOR has erected many of the public buildings in Pennsylvania and other states. Among those built by him are the Pennsylvania railroad depot at Cape May, New Jersey, the opera house and Methodist Episcopal church at Clearfield, the court house in Butler, the high schools at Mansfield and Kittanning, and the Schuylkill county court house, at Pottsville. He has operated extensively in the oil fields of Thorn creek, the Eastern Belt, Saxonburg, and the Hundred Foot field, of Butler county; also in Clarion county, Allegheny county, and in Indiana. Mr. TAYLOR was one of the organizers of the Butler County National Bank, and was the first president of that institution. He is president of the Bradford Glass Company, and is a man of much public enterprise. He married Annie, daughter of Joseph RUFFHEAD, of Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania, to whom have been born the following children: Ida, wife of C.C. BENSCOTER; Martha A., wife of G.S. SWOPE of Bradford; Mary B., wife of E.C. HUGHES of Allegheny, and William J. Mr. TAYLOR is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and politically, he is a Republican.

EDWARD E. WEIGAND was born in Hesse Cassel, Germany, October 6, 1849, and is a son of Frederick WEIGAND of the same place. His father was a carriage maker and farmer, and married Elizabeth, daughter of Henry GRUBING, of Hesse Cassel, who bore him two children: Elizabeth, and Edward E. The latter learned the cabinet maker's trade in Germany, came to the United States in 1868, and settled at Tionesta, Pennsylvania, where he remained three years. Returning to Germany, he spent eight months in his native land, and again came to Pennsylvania and located at Titusville, where he was a rig builder and carpenter. He remained at Titusville until July, 1874, when he located at Butler, and worked at his trade until 1881. He then went into the contracting business, as a member of the firm of McJunkin & Weigand, which was dissolved in 1888. Since that time he has continued business alone. Mr. WEIGAND was married January 19, 1875, to Margaret, daughter of William KALB of Butler township, and has two children: Adam F., and Frank L. Politically, he is a Democrat, and is a member of the Lutheran church.

LEWIS C. WICK was born in Slippery Rock township, Butler county, December 14, 1852, son of Henry E. and Elizabeth WICK, both natives of this country. With the exception of four years spent in Bourbon, Indiana, and Chicago, he has always been a resident of Butler county. He commenced active business when about sixteen years of age, consisting of a general store, wholesale flour and feed, and lumber business, the latter of which he is now engaged in at Butler and at [p. 797] Hilliard Station. The Butler yard was started in February, 1884, by L.C. and W.S. WICK, who during the year 1885 bought out the firms of Leech Brothers, McGee & Dunlap, and W.C. HEINER. W.S. WICK sold his interest to C.R. HAMMOND in March, 1887, and L.C. WICK bought out Mr. HAMMOND in May, 1888, and has since been sole proprietor of the business. Mr. WICK was married February 10, 1874, to Mary Frances CURRAN, a daughter of Samuel and Sarah CURRAN, of Centerville, Butler county, who died December 10, 1874. He was again married October 16, 1878, to Florence P. CURRAN, a daughter of Rev. Richard A. and Elizabeth CURRAN, of Decatur, Indiana. To this union have been born four children, viz.: Richard H.; Helen E., and Louisa O., both deceased, and Olive Bartine. He is a member of the Reformed church of Springdale, and an ardent Prohibitionist, casting his first vote for that party in 1882.

JOHN GOETZ was born in Bavaria, Germany, April 14, 1828, son of Nicholas and Mary A. (PERSOW) GOETZ. He grew to manhood in his native land, and engaged in the butcher and the hotel business, which he followed until 1854. In that year he immigrated to the United States and settled at Freeport, Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, erected the gas works at that point, and carried them on in connection with the Butler Gas Works until 1875. He then came to Butler, where he was superintendent of the Butler works until 1883, in which year he built his planing mill on Spring avenue. His mill is a two-story building, fifty by fifty, with an extension fourteen by thirty feet, equipped with the newest machinery, and operated by an eighteen house-power engine. Mr. GOETZ is also engaged in contracting and building, in which business he has been quite successful. He was married in Germany to Margaret HEID, and has four children: Annie, wife of Bart NEBBEL; Leonard; Mollie, and Winnie. Mr. GOETZ and family are members of St. Peter's Catholic church, and in politics, he is a stanch adherent of the Democratic party.

VALENTINE FEIGEL was born in Rubenheim, Germany, August 7, 1805, there grew to maturity, and served in the French army over fourteen years, under Charles X., and Louise Phillippe. He learned the carpenter's trade, and in 1839 immigrated to St. Louis, Missouri, and the following year took up his residence in Butler, Pennsylvania, where he worked at his trade for many years. In 1843 he married Christina OBITZ, of Hannahstown, Butler county, to which union were born eleven children, viz.: Valentine, and Philip, both deceased; William; Margaret, and Mary, the last two deceased; Catherine, wife of Christopher TROUTMAN; Ferdinand; Sophia, wife of George KETTERER, of Butler; Carolina, wife of C.D. ALDINGER, of Butler; Louisa, and Annie. Mr. FEIGEL has occupied his present residence since 1854. He has served as burgess of Butler, and is an adherent of the Democratic party. The family are connected with the Lutheran church.

FERDINAND FEIGEL was born in the borough of Butler, October 21, 1853, son of Valentine and Christina FEIGEL. He received a common school education, and learned the carpenter's trade with his father, which business he has followed the greater portion of his life. In 1893 he engaged in the manufacture of picture frames, under the title of the I.X.L. Picture Frame Company, which business he carries on at 309 South Main street. On May 25, 1882, Mr. FEIGEL married [p. 798] Margaret RADER, a daughter of Peter RADER, of Petersville, and has two children, Ernest and Ollie. The family are members of the English Lutheran church, and in politics, Mr. FEIGEL is a Republican. He is connected with Ziegler Lodge, I.O.O.F.

JOHN KOPP was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, December 6, 1835, son of John and Christina (FITCH) KOPP, natives of the same place. His father was born October 11, 1811, served several years in the German army, and in 1858 immigrated to the United States and settled in the borough of Butler, where he continued to carry on the trade of marble and stone cutting. In 1874 he returned to Germany, where he died in 1890. His wife died in 1883. They were the parents of two children: John, and Christina, who married Jacob ZELLER. The subject of this sketch came to the United States in 1854, and completed his trade at Cincinnati, with John SLAUTERBECK, remaining in that city a year and a half. He then located in Butler, where he has ever since carried on the marble business. On April 28, 1858, he married Christina WECKBECKER, a daughter of Henry and Anna WECKBECKER, of Butler. The following children have been born to this union: Carolina, deceased; William H., deceased; Annie K., deceased; Elizabeth, deceased wife of William WINGARD, of Clarion county; Emma, wife of Thomas FINUCAN, of Pittsburg; Helen D., deceased; Edward C.; Laura M.; Bertha A., and Maggie C. Mr. KOPP and family are connected with the Lutheran church, and politically, he is a Republican. He is a member of Lodge, Number 22, P.H.C.

CHARLES H. KENNEDY, oldest son of William C. and Elizabeth (CHRISTY) KENNEDY, was born near Harlansburg, Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, and received a common school education. When twenty years of age he engaged in teaming, and subsequently learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed some four years. He then went to work in a bottling works at New Brighton, Beaver county, and subsequently worked at the same business in Sharon. In September, 1890, he came to Butler, purchased the bottling works of Mechling & Smith which he has since carried on successfully. These works were established in 1886 by T.E. GAMBLE, at their present location, 158 Race street, and is the only plant of the kind in Butler. They have a capacity of 150 cases a day, or 3,600 bottles. Mr. KENNEDY manufactures all kinds of soft drinks, and charges soda fountains for his patrons in Butler, also supplies many of the small neighboring towns. He was married May 2, 1888, to Hattie E., daughter of Henry and Elizabeth BOYER of Sharon, Pennsylvania. They are members of the Presbyterian church. Mr. KENNEDY is connected with the K.O.T.M., and in politics, is a Democrat.

JOHN G. WISENER was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, in August, 1812, was reared in his native land, and learned the butcher's trade. He afterwards immigrated to Pennsylvania, and opened a meat market in Butler, where he resided until his death, May 18, 1849. In 1835 he married Margaret NICKLAS, a daughter of Peter NICKLAS, of Summit township, who became the mother of seven children, as follows: Elizabeth, wife of Matthew SEEGAR; Philip; Mark; John G.; Lewis; Annie E., wife of Matthew SPEER, and Susannah, wife of [p. 799] Wesley ELLIOTT. Mrs. WISENER died on June 6, 1880. They were members of the Lutheran church.

PHILIP WISENER was born in the borough of Butler, January 14, 1838, eldest son of John G. and Margaret WISENER. He received a common school education, and learned the blacksmith's trade, and carries on that business at the present time. On March 10, 1861, he married Mary KNAUSE, a daughter of Christian KNAUSE, of Summit township, and has six children, viz.: Elizabeth, wife of Jacob LAWALL; Julia, wife of Louis B. STEIN; Etta, wife of Elmer KELLY; George; Charles, and Mary. Mr. WISENER is a member of the Lutheran church; is a stanch Democrat, and has served on the school board and in the borough council. He has always lived on Jefferson street, and erected his present home in 1876. He takes quite an active part in public affairs and gives an earnest support to every improvement.

JOHN LEFEVRE was born on the homestead in Jefferson township, Butler county, August 27, 1847, was reared in his native township, and learned the blacksmith's trade with George C. ROESSING, of Butler, commencing his apprenticeship in September, 1866. In March, 1880, he established his present business, on West Jefferson, where he has since carried on a carriage repair shop. Mr. LEFEVRE was married January 3, 1870, to Eximnia SHAFFER, of Armstrong county. They are the parents of four children, viz.: Ella A., deceased; James W., born February 10, 1877, who works with his father in the shop; Alice G., and Charles M. The family are connected with the Methodist Episcopal church, in which Mr. LEFEVRE has served as steward for ten years. In politics, he is a Republican, and is now serving in the borough council. He is a charter member of Good Will Hose Company, of which he is a trustee, and was a delegate to the Fireman's State Convention, at Norristown, September 18, 1894.

JOSEPH PARKIN was born in Cornwall, England, August 23, 1832, son of John and Margaret PARKIN, natives of the same place. His father was born in 1786, and married Margaret PASCO in 1813. They were the parents of seven children, viz.: Philip, who died in Illinois; John, and Lavina, both deceased; William; Philipi, who married James HOLMAN; Joseph, and Elizabeth, deceased wife of Hannibal ROWE. Mr. PARKIN died in 1864. The subject of this sketch immigrated to Illinois in 1859, and afterwards resided at Superior City, Michigan. In 1861 he visited his native land, whence he returned to California, and worked in the gold and silver mines until 1865. In that year he went to New Jersey, returned to Illinois in 1876, and in February, 1877, located at Karns City, Butler county, where he engaged in farming and butchering. In 1886 he came to Butler, and established a meat market, which is now being carried on by his sons. He has also been engaged in the bakery and confectionery business. Mr. PARKIN married Laura M. WEBB, February 11, 1862, and has seven children, viz.: Joseph; Edgar; Reginald; Herbert; Lucy; Thomas, and Richard. Politically, he is a stanch Republican.

JOSEPH W. PARKIN, son of Joseph and Laura M. PARKIN, was born in Cornwall, England, October 12, 1864, came to the United States with his father in 1867, and remained with his parents until he was twenty years of age. He then located in Butler, where he has since been engaged in carrying on a meat market. [p. 800] On December 12, 1888, he married Jennie WILSON, a daughter of William J. WILSON, of Butler, and has had two children, Jennie, deceased, and Joseph. In politics, he is a Republican, and is a member of the Protestant Episcopal church.

WILLIAM H. MILLER, one of the early business men of Butler, was born near Berlin, Germany, there grew to manhood and learned the cabinet maker's trade. About 1834 he immigrated to Pennsylvania and located at Butler, where he engaged in the cabinet making and furniture business, on North Main street. He carried on this business for more than forty years, retiring in 1875. Mr. MILLER died in September, 1878. He was married in this borough to Charlotte WEISENSTEIN, who survives him, and resides in Butler at the ripe age of eighty-one years. They reared three children, viz.: William F.; Henry A., and Mary L. Mr. MILLER and wife were among the original members of the German Lutheran church, and in politics, he was an ardent Republican.

WILLIAM F. MILLER, eldest son of William H. and Charlotte MILLER, was born in Butler, January 1, 1839, learned the cabinet maker's trade with his father, and was afterwards a partner in the business, under the firm name of W.H. Miller & Son, which existed until his father retired from business. In 1870 he established his present factory, and has since carried on mantel, stair and portico building, scroll-sawing, turning and fancy wood-work, in connection with a planing mill business. Mr. MILLER married Caroline REIBER, a daughter of George REIBER, and has five children, viz.: Loretta C.; Bertha; Cora; William, and Analine. The family are members of the English Lutheran church, and in politics, adherents of the Republican party.

REV. PETER C. PRUGH, D.D., superintendent of St. Paul's Orphan Home, was born September 13, 1822, in Montgomery county, Ohio, and is a son of John and Catherine (HAYNES) PRUGH. His father was a native of Carroll county, Maryland, born near the town of Westminster in 1795, and his mother in the same county, in 1791. They were the parents of ten children, our subject being the fourth son. In 1818 the family removed to Ohio, and settled in Van Buren township, Montgomery county, where the father died in 1879, and his wife three years previous. Mr. PRUGH was reared on the homestead farm, and after receiving a common school education, entered the Dayton Academy. In 1845 he entered Marshall College, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, from which he graduated in the year 1849. He then entered the Theological Seminary of the Reformed church at the same place, where he completed his studies and was called to the pastorate of the Reformed church at Xenia, Ohio, in 1851, remaining there twenty-five years. During the war Mr. PRUGH was connected with the Ohio Relief Society, and did duty at Washington, Port Royal, the Wilderness and White House Landing, caring for the wounded soldiers, and was also connected with the Ohio Militia at the time of Gen. Kirby SMITH's attempted raid upon Cincinnati. During his residence in Xenia he was mainly instrumental in founding the Soldier's Orphan School located at that place, being chairman of the committee to raise funds for that purpose. By his own personal efforts he secured in Greene county alone $25,000. After the completion of the Home, he was appointed its chaplain and filled that position two years. In 1873 he accepted a call from the Church of the Cross, Cincinnati, Ohio, where [p. 801] he remained three years. He then located in Germantown, Ohio, and took charge of the Reformed church of that place, and remained there until 1882, in which year he accepted his present position as superintendent of St. Paul's Orphan Home. Since his connection with this school many improvements have been made, one change being the enlargement of its capacity of from fifty to 175 pupils. At one time he had under his charge 160 children of deceased soldiers, and at this period the State inspector reported his school as being one of the best in the State. In politics, Mr. PRUGH was in early life a Whig, but joined the Republican party on its formation, and has since supported that organization. In his youth he joined the Washingtonian temperance movement and has always been a strong advocate of temperance. He was married April 2, 1852, to Charlotte, a daughter of Jacob HASSLER of Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, a musician in the War of 1812. They are the parents of eleven children, seven of whom lived to manhood and womanhood: Edwin N.; John H., pastor of Grace Reformed church of Pittsburg; Daniel K.; William S.; Etta K., deceased, who had charge of the school at the Home five years; Mary A., and Frances Grace. Mr. PRUGH is recognized as a man of superior ability, and has won the respect and confidence of the citizens of Butler.

REV. JOHN S. McKEE, pastor of the United Presbyterian church of Butler, was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, June 22, 1850. His grandfather, David McKEE, was born in County Down, Ireland, about 1797, was a carpenter by trade, and came of Presbyterian stock. He married a Miss DONNAN, and died in 1869, aged seventy-two years. His wife survived him until 1872, dying at the ripe old age of eighty-two years. They were the parents of six children: William S.; Mrs. Jane WILSON; Mrs. Ann STEWART McKEE; Mary; David, and Alexander D. William S., the eldest of the family, and father of our subject, was born in County Down, Ireland, in 1824, learned the carpenter's trade in his native land, and came to America in 1844. He settled in Pittsburg, where he was engaged in contracting and building for a great many years but in 1886 he removed to Denver, Colorado, where he continued the same business. He died June 18, 1894. He was twice married; first to Elizabeth SHIELDS of Pittsburg, in 1849, to whom were born five children, only two of whom grew to maturity: John S., and William G. The mother died in 1859, and in 1862 he married Miss Jane COX, to whom were born six children: Elizabeth, deceased; Thomas C., an architect; David, deceased; Heberton N.; Harry C., and Alexander A. The parents were members of the United Presbyterian church, in which denomination Mr. McKEE filled the office of ruling elder.

The subject of this sketch received his primary education in the common schools, afterwards attended East Liberty Academy, and the Western University, and graduated from the latter institution in 1869. He then entered the United Presbyterian Theological Seminary, in Allegheny City, where he was graduated in 1873, and subsequently spent one year in the Free Church College, Edinburgh, Scotland. Mr. McKEE was licensed to preach the gospel June 24, 1873, by the Monongahela Presbytery, and was ordained and installed pastor of East Brady Congregation October 19, 1875. He remained with that charge until 1880, when he received a call from the United Presbyterian church of Mercer, [p. 802] Pennsylvania, which he accepted, and was pastor of that church until October 1, 1884. On that date he received and accepted a call from the United Presbyterian church of Butler, and for the past ten years has ministered to that congregation. Under his pastorate the church has prospered both materially and spiritually, the beautiful new church building recently erected being evidence of the prosperity of this congregation. Mr. McKEE is an ardent Prohibitionist in politics, and has always taken an active and prominent part in fighting intemperance and in trying to obtain anti-liquor legislation. Mr. McKEE married Sophia M., a daughter of Robert and Mary S. TEMPLETON, of East Brady, Pennsylvania, in June, 1878, and has one child, Jeannie E. He is one of the best known and most popular ministers in Butler county.

REV. WILLIAM E. OLLER, pastor of the Presbyterian church of Butler, was born upon his father's farm in Washington county, Pennsylvania, January 13, 1852. He is the fourth in a family of eight children born to Daniel and Catherine (MYERS) OLLER, of that county. His father was a native of Kammerer, Washington county, and his mother a daughter of Jacob and Mary Myers, of Somerset township, in the same county. They were married in 1843, and were loving helpmates for nearly half a century, when the link was broken by the death of the husband and father, September 6, 1891. William E. received his primary education in the public schools of his native county, afterwards entered Washington and Jefferson College, from which he graduated in 1875; then entered Western Theological Seminary, Allegheny City, and was graduated from that institution in 1878. He was licensed to preach by the Presbytery of Washington, at Burgettstown, in April, 1877. He accepted a call from the Presbyterian church of Tarentum, Allegheny county, and was ordained and installed pastor of that church, September 10, 1878. Mr. OLLER remained in charge at Tarentum for nearly four years, and June 19, 1882, accepted the pastorate of the Presbyterian church of Butler, for which he has preached during the past thirteen years. His ministry has been marked by a rigid devotion to his duties, and an unswerving christian rectitude in the prosecution of his labors. Under his pastorate the church has prospered, and his earnest, untiring efforts have borne good fruit in the steady, substantial growth of the congregation, and the development of a generous christian sentiment among its members. Mr. OLLER was married October 10, 1878, to Miss Ella D. CREIGH, a daughter of Dr. Alfred CREIGH, of Washington, Pennsylvania. Four children are the fruits of this union, as follows: Nellie C.; Julian S.; Katrina L., and Florence B.

PROF. EBENEZER MACKEY, superintendent of the public schools of Butler, was born on Friday, August 14, 1857, in the old homestead near Walker avenue, Butler, Pennsylvania. His mother, Mrs. Sarah MACKEY, made it the aim of her life to educate him, and taught him to read almost as soon as he could talk. Pilgrim's Progress, the Bible and Plutarch's Lives were his favorite reading and inexhaustible mines of material for the greater part of thought and play in an otherwise lonely childhood. He attended the district school regularly, with summer terms at Witherspoon Institute, German Lutheran school and elsewhere. Judge GREER and Dr. BRUGH are among the names held in dear rememberance as teachers that lifted him up to higher things. After three or four years' study of [p. 803] the higher branches at the Institute, he entered the senior preparatory class of Mercersburg College. The five years under the direct personal influence of such teachers as Hon. E.E. HIGBEE, D.D., LL.D., Rev. J.B. KIEFFER, Ph.D., and others of like ability and self-sacrificing devotion, were doubtless the formative period of his life and the seed-time of his best fruition. He joined the College Chapel Reformed church in 1875. In 1878, the year of his graduation, he was appointed principal of St. Paul's Orphan Home school, and taught there three annual terms. In the effort to choose and make preparation for a profession, he read Blackstone, studied Gray's Anatomy, and pursued the studies of the first year in theology.

In 1881 he was elected principal of the public schools of Butler, then having nine teachers and about 400 pupils. His first work was to introduce a system of regulations and course of study that led to the graduation of the first class in 1885, and the first commencement exercises in the history of education in the borough. His summer vacations have been spent largely in attending State and National educational meetings, in travel through the United States, Canada and Europe, and in special study of psychology and pedagogy at Clark University, Worcester, Massachusetts. Professor MACKEY was married December 20, 1893, to Miss Anna WELSHONS. That he is superintendent of the Sunday school and treasurer of the Reformed church, president of the Y.M.C.A., a trustee of Franklin and Marshall College, secretary of the board of directors of the Orphans' Home, president of the Mutual Water Association, and a member of the executive committee of the State Teachers' Association, may serve to show that in other lines, as well as that of his life work as teacher, he is endeavoring to realize the motto of his name.

REV. HENRY E. SNYDER was born near Boquet, Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, January 1, 1864, and is a son of David L. SNYDER. His father was born in Westmoreland county, November 19, 1833, taught school for twelve years, and was later engaged in merchandising and farming. He now resides upon a farm in Penn township, Westmoreland county, which he purchased in 1886. He is a trustee and has been a deacon in the Reformed church, and in politics, he is a Republican. He married Mary A., daughter of John KLINE, of Penn township, Westmoreland county, in 1856, and has the following children: Addison C.; Elizabeth E.; Amanda J.; Henry E.; Emma S.; Daniel J.; Anne M., and Norah V. The subject of this sketch received a common school education, and then attended Delmont Academy, and later, Murrysville Academy. He next taught school for three years, and in 1885 entered the university at Tiffin, Ohio, where he was graduated in 1888. He afterwards attended Franklin and Marshall Theological Seminary, at Lancaster, completed the full course, graduated May 14, 1891, and was licensed to preach by Westmoreland Classis, at Pleasant Unity, Westmoreland county, on Saturday, May 23, 1891. In June, 1891, he received and accepted a call from Bethany Reformed church of Butler, and has since had charge of that congregation. Mr. SNYDER was married May 14, 1891, to Miss Imogene M. LONG, of Lancaster, and has two children: Cecil, and Alpheus N.

[p. 804]

WILLIAM C. NEGLEY, son of John H. and Mary (HARPER) NEGLEY, and grandson of John NEGLEY, the pioneer, was born in the borough of Butler, December 18, 1850. He attended the public schools of the borough, and passed a short term in what is known as "The Old Stone Academy." In 1865 he entered the United States Academy at Annapolis, and there studied for four years, when he was assigned to service and spent a few years at sea. The condition of his health obliged him to abandon the naval service, and returning to Butler he became associated with his father in the publication of the Citizen, fully mentioned in the chapter of the Press. Mr. NEGLEY was married in January, 1878, to Mrs. Emma STAUFFER, daughter of Squire Armor of Zelienople. To them have been born seven children, three of whom are living: William, Emma and John. Mr. NEGLEY has always been a stanch Republican, and in his capacity as editor of the Citizen has rendered invaluable services to his party in this county.

ELI D. ROBINSON, son of Thomas and Ann Eliza (DeWOLF) ROBINSON, was born in Penn township, Butler county, March 4, 1855. In 1863 his parents removed to Butler, where he received a practical common school education in the public schools of the borough, and subsequently studied for five years in the Witherspoon Institute. In the winter of 1875-76, he entered his father's law office, and read law for eighteen months, and then abandoned his studies in that direction. Preferring journalism, he purchased the Eagle from his father in 1879, and was one of the editors and publishers of that paper, its political department being under his direction, until February 7, 1895, when he became sole proprietor. He wields an earnest, forceful pen, which is used in the advocacy of positive conviction. Mr. ROBINSON was married March 14, 1883, to Emily E. ROGERS, of Harrisburg, to which union three children have been born: Ann DeWolf; Bertha Ewing, and Carl Irving. The family are connected with the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, Mr. ROBINSON has always been an ardent Republican.

JAMES MONROE CARSON was born in North Beaver township, Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, November 11, 1857, son of Willliam and Prudence (CALVIN) CARSON, natives of Lawrence county, of Scotch-Irish ancestory. His parental grandfather, William CARSON, was a native of Ireland, who came to America prior to the Revolution, espoused the cause of the colonists, and served as a soldier in the Colonial army in its struggles for independence. After peace was declared he married Rachel WILSON, of Deleware, and located in Virginia, where he remained until 1799, when he settled within the present limits of Lawrence county. His maternal ancestors emigrated from Scotland to western Pennsylvania, towards the close of the Eighteenth century. The subject of this sketch removed with his parents to Marion township, Butler county, in November, 1868, and spent his youth on his father's farm, receiving his education in the public schools and from private tutors. In 1873 he entered the office of the Butler Eagle, as an apprentice to the printing trade, and served the full term of three years. He afterwards worked at his trade in Sharon and Sandy Lake for several years. In 1881 he purchased an interest in the Eagle, and entered into partnership with Eli D. ROBINSON, with whom he was associated, as editor and publisher, under [p. 805] the firm name of Robinson & Carson, until February 7, 1895, when he retired from the firm. Mr. CARSON is a Republican, has always taken an active interest in the success of the principles and candidates of his party; was secretary of the county committee in the presidential campaign of 1888, and has served on other important party committees and conferences. He received the unanimous indorsement of Butler county for State Senator in 1892, but Armstrong county being entitled to the district nomination, it was conceded to the candidate of that county without a contest. In 1891 Mr. CARSON was elected reading clerk of the State Senate, and filled the position so acceptably that he was re-elected in 1893, and again in 1895. He was married, in 1882, to Letitia DONALDSON, and three daughters have blessed this union, viz.: Luella; Bessie Prudence, and Bertha May. Mr. CARSON and wife are members of the United Presbyterian church, of Butler.

CHARLES E. HERR, proprietor of the Butler County Record, was born in Somerset, Pennsylvania, February 21, 1850, son of Joseph and Mary (KOONTZ) HERR. His father settled in Somerset about 1830, and his mother, as well as his maternal grandparents, were natives of that town. The subject of this sketch was reared in his native county, learned the printer's trade in the office of the Somerset Democrat, and subsequently held the foremanship of the Somerset Herald. In 1877, during the highest stage of the oil excitement at Petrolia, he went to that town and established the Petrolia Record. Its publication was successfully continued there until June 1888, when the establishment was moved to Butler, and the name of the paper changed to "The Butler County Record." Mr. HERR was married on May 25, 1882, to Emma B. PATTERSON, of Bridgeport, Ohio, and has three children: Mary; Edgar, and Helen. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, he has always been independent.

PROF. P.S. BANCROFT was born in Litchfield county, Connecticut, where his parents and maternal grandparents long resided. His maternal grandfather, Grove PINNEY, Esq., was for several sessions a member of the legislature, and afterwards of the constitutional convention of the State. His parental grandfather was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, and his father was a native of the latter State. His ancestors on both sides settled in New England at an early day, the Bancrofts coming from England, and the Pinneys from Scotland. Earl BANCROFT, father of the subject of this sketch, moved to Crawford county, Pennsylvania, when the latter was eight years old, settling on a farm near Meadville. The son was brought up on the farm and educated at Allegheny College, where he graduated in 1855. For two years he taught Greek and Latin in Madison College, Uniontown, Pennsylvania. In 1861 he entered the One Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, as second lieutenant, and subsequently became a member of the Third Regiment, Veteran Reserve Corps, serving in all nearly four years, during the last two of which he held the rank of captain. In 1866 Prof. BANCROFT married Bella BRINKER, youngest daughter of Col. Jacob BRINKER, and granddaughter of Abraham BRINKER, one of the first settlers of Butler. Three children have blessed this union, viz.: Earl D.; Flora Gertrude, and Grove G. In 1877 he came to Butler, and was for several years principal of Witherspoon Institute, but finally abandoned teaching to engage in newspaper [p. 806] work. In March, 1888, he began writing for the Butler Eagle, and became associate editor of the Butler County Record, October 1, 1889, upon which journal he is still engaged. Prof. BANCROFT and family are members of St. Peter's Protestant Episcopal church, of Butler, and in politics, he is a supporter of the Republican party.

W. G. ZIEGLER, son of W.S. and Susan (SCHLEPPY) ZIEGLER, was born in Butler township, Butler county, May 25, 1858. His father was a son of George ZIEGLER of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and brother of Capt. Jacob ZIEGLER the founder of the Democratic Herald, and was born in 1789, and died August 29, 1848. His mother was a daughter of Jacob SCHLEPPY, one of the early settlers of Butler county, and was born in Luzerne county, and died in this county February 14, 1878, aged eighty-seven years. His maternal grandmother was a McCANDLESS, was born in Ireland, came to Butler county in youth, settled in Muddy Creek township, and died in Butler township, April 25, 1866. His parental grandmother was a CHRITZMAN, was born in Germany, May 1, 1792, came to America in 1801, settled in Baltimore, and died in Butler, April 28, 1865. The subject of this sketch learned the printer's trade in the Herald office, with which he has been connected for the past twenty years, as apprentice, foreman and publisher.

ROBERT McKEE, son of James and grandson of Thomas McKEE, was born in Butler township, Butler county, June 17, 1817. He was reared upon the farm, and in 1847 he married Mary J. KIRK, a daughter of John KIRK, an early settler of Clarion county. They resided upon a farm in Butler township until 1888, and then removed to Butler, where Mr. McKEE died on December 18, 1890, leaving two children, Mary A. and James A. The widow resides with her children in Butler. Mr. McKEE was a justice of the peace in Butler township for thirty years, and was a prominent member of the United Presbyterian church.

JAMES A. McKEE was born in Butler township, May 11, 1865, son of Robert and Mary McKEE. He was educated in the public schools and at Witherspoon Institute, and subsequently attended Wooster University, at Wooster, Ohio. After completing his education he returned to Butler county, and taught school. In 1888 the family removed into the borough, and he shortly afterwards formed a partnership with W.G. ZIEGLER, and purchased the Democratic Herald, with which he has since been connected as editor and publisher. He is an active member of the Democratic party, has been prominent in the local councils of that organization, and is a member of the United Presbyterian church.

HENRY C. HEINEMAN was born in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, June 13, 1828, son of Daniel J. and Catherine A. (ROTH) HEINEMAN, natives of Germany. In July 1835, the family landed in Philadelphia, and in 1838 came westward to Butler county, settling on a farm near the site of Great Belt, whence they removed to Allegheny, thence to Philadelphia, and later to McKean county. In 1842 they came again to this county and settled in the borough of Butler, where the parents spent the remaining years of their lives. When the family first located in this county, Henry C. worked in a confectionery in Butler, and soon after their return here, he entered the employ of William Campbell & Sons, [p. 807] for whom he clerked five years. In January, 1850, he went to Callifornia by water, worked in the mines until the following December, and then returned to his home. In March, 1852, he crossed the plains to the Pacific slope and remained working in the mines until June, 1856, when he again returned to Butler. In February, 1857, he embarked in the book and stationery business, which he has followed continuously up to the present. Mr. HEINEMAN was married, October 29, 1857, to Mary E. COYLE, a native of Ireland. Seven children have blessed this union, all of whom are living. Their names are as follows: Catherine A., wife of W.W. BLACKMORE; Charles M.; Harry D.; William J.; Matilda R.; George E., and Joseph A. Mr. HEINEMAN and family are members of the Presbyterian church, and politically, are stanch adherents of the Democratic party. He has filled the office of school director for two terms; is a member of Connoquenessing Lodge, Number 278, I.O.O.F., Butler Lodge, Number 272, F.& A.M., the R.A., A.O.U.W., and E.A.U. From the beginning of its history up to the present, he has been prominent in the volunteer fire department of Butler, and is regarded as the father of the department. Mr. HEINEMAN is one of the oldest business men in the borough, carries on its pioneer book store, and is highly respected by the leading people of the community.

CHARLES M. HEINEMAN, one of the editors of the Times, was born in the borough of Butler July 24, 1862, and is a son of Henry C. and Mary (COYLE) HEINEMAN. He was educated in the public schools and at Witherspoon Institute, and after his school days had ended he entered his father's store as clerk. During this period he have some attention to journalism, establishing one or more amateur ventures in the journalistic field as early as 1881. He was one of the founders of the Times in 1884, and has since been the editor of that paper, in connection with his brother, William J. Mr. HEINEMAN was married to Ella, daughter of James H. BLACK, November 26, 1885. She is a native of this county and a member of the old family of that name, of whom so many are known here in the trades and professions. Two children have been born of this marriage: Henry N., and Charles C.

JOHN FINDLEY, secretary and treasurer of the Pittsburg Refining Company, Limited, of Pittsburg, was born on the Findley homestead in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, July 19, 1838. He is a son of David and Grace (CUNNINGHAM) FINDLEY, and grandson of John FINDLEY, one of the pioneers of Mercer county, who came there from Westmoreland county about 1799. John FINDLEY, Sr., married Elizabeth AMBERSON, of Mercer, and became the father of the following children: William, a United Presbyterian minister; David; John, an Associate Reformed minister; Patterson, and five who died in infancy. Patterson FINDLEY is the only surviving member of the family. David FINDLEY, the father of our subject, married Grace CUNNINGHAM, a daughter of Thomas Scott CUNNINGHAM, also a pioneer of Mercer county, who represented his county in Congress several terms. They were the parents of the following children: James Galloway DINWIDDIE, and Thomas Scott CUNNINGHAM, both deceased; John; Mary Elizabeth; Jennie; Matilda Grace, wife of W.V. Evans, of Tarentum; William Oliver, and three who died in infancy. John was reared on the home farm, and received his early education in the public schools, and later graduated at Iron City Com-[p. 808] mercial College; removed to Butler county in 1873 and to Butler in 1886. Mr. FINDLEY was married in 1861, to Melissa PAINTER, a daughter of Philip and Jane (McCOY) PAINTER, of Mercer county, and is the father of the following children: William Edgar, formerly court stenographer in Butler, now engaged in the railroad business in New York city; Ada Grace; Charles Donald, also in the railroad business in New York city; Norman Painter; Lucretia Jane, and one who died in infancy. In politics, Mr. FINDLEY is a stanch Republican, has served as a member of the school board for a number of years, and is now secretary of the board. Mr. FINDLEY and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Butler, of which he is treasurer. He is also a member of the R.T.of T., and the K.of P., in both of which he has filled positions of trust.

MAJ. CYRUS E. ANDERSON was born in Washington county, Ohio, August 4, 1822, and was reared in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania. He is a son of Robert and Magdalene (ROTH) ANDERSON, the former a native of Allegheny county, and the latter of Perry county, Pennsylvania, and of German extraction. He served two years at the harness maker's trade in Pittsburg, came to Butler county at the age of fifteen, where he worked in the summer and attended school in the winter until twenty-one years of age. He then engaged in teaching, which he followed for fifteen years in Pennsylvania and Iowa. In 1843 he went to Iowa, returned to Pennsylvania in the spring of 1844, located at Meadville in 1854, and in 1857 returned to Butler. He was appointed deputy register and recorder that year, and filled the position for three years. In 1860 he was elected, on the Republican ticket, to the office of register and recorder, and was serving in that capacity when he joined A.G. Reed, in August, 1862, and recruited Company C, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and entered the service as captain of said company. He served in the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville; was commissioned major of his regiment February 17, 1863, and was discharged at Harrisburg, May 26, 1863, by reason of expiration of his term of enlistment. Returning home he completed his term as register and recorder. In December, 1863, he became associated with Thomas Robinson in the publication of the American Citizen; was appointed district deputy provost marshal in 1864, and sold his interest in the Citizen to Mr. ROBINSON. He served as provost marshal until the close of the war. In 1865 he became business manager of the Citizen, and in 1866 purchased the plant and conducted the paper until 1869, when he sold it to John H. NEGLEY. He was elected prothonotary the same year, and after filling that office for one term, he was employed in the various offices in the court house as clerk. In 1891 he was elected justice of the peace, and in the spring of 1894 he was elected burgess of Butler for a term of three years, which positions he is now filling. Mr. ANDERSON is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, was at one time a local preacher in that denomination, and has been a teacher of a bible class in the Butler church for thirty-seven years. He is a member of A.G. Reed Post, Number 105, G.A.R., and is connected with the Masonic order, the I.O.O.F., and the R.A. Major ANDERSON was married in 1847, to Ruth BROWN, a daughter of Adam and Sarah BROWN, of CRANBERRY township, Butler county, to which union have been born six children, two of whom died in infancy, Sarah [p. 809] Magdalene, and Robert. Those living are: Leonidas L.; Alvin A.; Estella E., and Ulysses S.G.

JOHN T. KELLY, son of Thomas and Miriam KELLY, was born in Washington township, Butler county, Pennsylvania, November 25, 1838. At the age of seventeen he commenced learning the blacksmith's trade, which he followed until June, 1861. He then enlisted in Company C, Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserve, and served in the Rebellion for three years, holding the rank of sergeant. He participated in all the engagements in which his regiment took part, except South Mountain and Antietam, from Mechanicsville to Bethesda Church. At the Seven Days' fight before Richmond, he was captured, and spent forty days in Libby and Belle Isle prisons. He was wounded at Fredericksburg, December 13, 1862, and was honorably discharged from the service, June 13, 1864. Returning to his home in Butler county, he worked at his trade until 1872, in which year he was elected sheriff, on the Republican ticket. At the expiration of his term, he engaged in various enterprises down to May 20, 1892, on which date he was appointed postmaster at Butler, and still occupies that position. Mr. KELLY was married August 25, 1864, to Miss Eliza J. SHIRA, and their children are as follows: Millie E., and Hallie, both deceased; Howard A.; Hallet W.; Josie, deceased; Gertrude; Amy, deceased, and Jean. Politically, he is a stanch Republican, is a member of A.G. Reed Post, G.A.R., and colonel of Encampment, Number 45, U.V.L. Both he and wife are members of the United Presbyterian church, in which denomination he has filled the office of elder for many years.

JOSEPH CRISWELL, clerk of the courts of Butler county, was born in Clinton township, Butler county, April 8, 1840. He worked upon his father's farm and attended the common schools of the district at intervals until his twenty-first year, when he enlisted as a private in Company H, One Hundred and Second Pennsylvania Volunteers, for a term of three years, at the end of which he re-enlisted in the same company. He was wounded at the Wilderness, and was honorably discharged at the close of the war. On April 25, 1864, he married Catherine S. Burkhart, a daughter of Elijah and Rebecca (RICHARDSON) BURKHART, and settled upon a farm in Butler township. They are the parents of two sons and four daughters, as follows: James B., a resident of Knoxville, Tennessee; Jean R., wife of John P. WILSON, a lawyer of Pittsburg; Letitia M., wife of R.C. LITTLE, a resident of Meadville; Kathleen M., who assists her father in the office; William Clifford, and Josephine. Mr. CRISWELL is a past master Mason, a member of A.G. Reed Post, G.A.R., and of Butler Encampment, Number 45, U.V.L. The family are adherents of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. CRISWELL is a stanch Republican, and was elected clerk of the courts in 1890, by a majority of 955, and was re-elected in 1893, by a majority of 1,917, the largest majority given to any man on the ticket. He is one of the most popular officials in the county, and has won and retained a wide circle of friends.

ANDREW GRAHAM CAMPBELL was born on the old homestead farm in Concord township, Butler county, July 1, 1842, and is the youngest in the family of Alexander and Eliza Campbell. He was reared upon his father's farm, and also followed milling, his father being the owner of a mill. In 1868 he embarked in [p. 810] merchandising in Concord township, whence he removed to Mount Chestnut, afterwards to Brownsdale, then to Butler, and finally to Boydstown. He married Rachel J., daughter of George HUTCHISON, of Oakland township, August 7, 1862, and they are the parents of six children, as follows: Alexander M.; Eliza A., wife of John H. ROBB; Thomas A.; William J.; Charles F., and Millard H. In August, 1862, Mr. CAMPBELL enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was mustered in at Harrisburg the same month. The regiment was moved to Arlington Heights, and took part in the battle of Antietam. He afterwards served on detail service with the supply train, and continued in that capacity until his discharge, June 16, 1865. Returning to his home he resumed his old business of farming and milling, and also embarked in merchandising. In 1893 he was elected, on the Republican ticket, sheriff of Butler county, and took charge of his office January 1, 1894. Mr. CAMPBELL is a capable and popular official, and has many warm friends in every township of his native county.

RICHARD KELLY, third son of Thomas and Miriam (WILSON) KELLY, was born in Washington township, Butler county, March 8, 1841. He grew to manhood on the farm, working at farm labor during the summer and attending school during the winter, and thus gained a fair common school education. At the age of nineteen he began teaching, receiving fourteen dollars per month and "boarding round" with the scholars, and with the exception of two winters during the Civil war, he has been engaged in teaching in the public schools of Butler county ever since. Mr. KELLY received an academic education in institutions of that kind at Fairview and Harrisville, Butler county, and at Dayton, Armstrong county. In the fall of 1861 he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Third Pennsylvania Volunteers, and saw some hard service on the march and on the battle field, being engaged in the siege of Yorktown, in the battles of Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, Jones Bridge, and other battles and skirmishes incident to a change of base from the York to the James river. Near Harrison's Landing he became disabled by reason of chronic diarrh�a and lung disease, and was sent from that point to the general hospital on David's Island, New York, where he was treated without success, and in the spring of 1863 he was honorably discharged as unfit for further service in the army. After remaining at home for about a year, and having partially regained his health, he was overtaken by the draft of 1864, and went back again to the army as a member of Company G, Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers. With this regiment he engaged in the siege of Petersburg, and spent most of the winter of 1864 at Fort McGilvery, on the Appomattox river. At the close of the war he was honorably discharged and returned to his home, but being unable to engage in heavy labor he resumed his life work as a teacher. In May, 1869, Mr. KELLY was married to Nannie J. HILLARD, of Venango township, Butler county, who became the mother of his eight children, viz.: Theodore P.; Nola B.; Ivy M.; Richard A.; Ethel I.; Zillah M.; Jonathan R., and Marcus R. He was at one time a candidate for county superintendent of common schools, but was defeated. In 1893 he was nominated for the office of county commissioner, by the Republican party, and was elected to said office, which position he now occupies.

WILLIAM RUSSELL was born in Down county, Ireland, in 1820, and when six years of age his parents immigrated to Philadelphia, where he grew to manhood, receiving in the public schools of that city a common school education. He came to Butler county when a young man, and purchased property in Harrisville, Mercer township. He followed school teaching for some years, and in 1849 went to California and remained on the Pacific coast twenty-six years, then returned to Butler, where he died October 20, 1885, at the home of his son, Alexander. In 1837 Mr. RUSSELL married Sarah BUCHANAN, a daughter of Alexander BUCHANAN, of Mercer township, to which union were born seven children, as follows: Martha, who married Dr. McCONNELL, of Mercer township; Alexander; David H.; Mary, wife of Stewart DUNCAN, of Mercer county; Nancy J., wife of Henry WATSON, of Clarion county, and two that died in infancy. Mr. RUSSELL and wife were members of the United Presbyterian church. Politically, he was a Republican, and filled the office of justice of the peace for some years.

ALEXANDER RUSSELL, eldest son of William and Sarah RUSSELL, was born in Harrisville, Butler county, November 19, 1840, received a common school education, and completed his studies at the Rimersburg Academy and the Harrisville High School, then under the principalship of Dr. W.T. HAMILTON. Mr. RUSSELL followed school teaching for many years, and in 1878 was elected, on the Democratic ticket, prothonotary of Butler county, and filled the office to the satisfaction of the people. Since 1888 he has been deputy prothonotary, under Mr. BROWN and Mr. SEATON, the latter being the present incumbent. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, was mustered into the service at Harrisburg, and served in the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, when his term of service having expired, he was honorably discharged, May 26, 1863. Mr. RUSSELL is a member of the A.G. Reed Post, G.A.R., of Butler, of which he has been commander. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church, has filled the office of elder in that society, and is one of the leading members of the Democratic party in Butler county. In 1868 he married Ann Eliza CONWAY, a daughter of Hugh CONWAY, of Cherry township, and has a family of four children, viz: William G.; Della; Sadie, and John.

NATHAN SLATER was born near Plainfield, Connecticut, in 1786, was reared upon a farm, and learned the carpenter's trade. He married Freelove CROSSMAN, of New York, and became the father of five children, as follows: Sarah M., who married Nathaniel WALKER, of Butler county; Amaty M., deceased; Henry, and Calista F., both deceased, and Nathan M. In 1820 Mr. SLATER came to Butler county, and settled upon a farm in Cranberry township, near the site of Callery Junction. His wife died upon this farm in 1852, and he subsequently removed to Sharon, Pennsylvania, where he died at the home of his daughter, in 1870. He was a member of the Baptist church, and a very worthy man. In politics, he was a Whig until the formation of the Republican party, when he joined that organization. He filled the offices of school director and supervisor in Cranberry township, and during his residence there was one of its well known citizens.

NATHAN M. SLATER, youngest child of Nathan and Freelove (CROSSMAN) SLATER, was born in Cranberry township, Butler county, December 1, 1822; received his education in the district school, and subsequently studied civil engineering, which he has followed since early manhood. In 1865 he was elected surveyor of Butler county, was re-elected in 1868, and again in 1871; was appointed to the same office by the court of common pleas in 1875, and was again elected in 1880. Since the expiration of his last term of office, he has devoted his attention to civil engineering. Mr. SLATER was married April 28, 1848, to Sarah McCANDLESS, a daughter of James McCANDLESS, of Middlesex township. Seven children are the fruits of this union, as follows: Howard; Daniel C.; James M.; Matilda B., wife of Paul MITCHELL; Angelica C.; Leila A., and Mary L. Mr. SLATER is one of the most thoroughly informed men in the county in regard to the early surveys and land titles, because of the many years he served as county surveyor; while his long residence in the county has made him familiar with its pioneer history, upon which he is a very good authority. He is an unswerving Republican, and delights in political discussion.

CAPT. HENRY PILLOW was born in Butler county, Pennsylvania, in 1824, a son of William Pillow, one of the pioneer carpenters of the county, who died in Connoquenessing township. William Pillow was twice married, and by his first marriage was the father of four children, as follows: William; Henry; John, and Ellen, wife of C. SHANOR. By his second wife he was the father of one son, Matthew. The subject of this sketch learned the carpenter's trade with his father, at which he worked many years, and was later a surveyor, following the latter business until his death. He married Caroline ENSLEY, and their children were as follows: Susan, wife of J.M. LIEGHNER; Raymond H.; George; Sallie, who married Edward VOGELEY; Carrie, wife of Valentine HICKMAN, and Alta, wife of Adam SARVER. Capt PILLOW commanded Company F, One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, in the late Rebellion. He was a leading Republican, served in the legislature in 1865-66, and was a man of some local prominence in political circles. He died in 1881. His widow resides in Butler.

CHARLES F.L. McQUISTION was born in Brady township, Butler county, April 17, 1867, and is the eldest in the family of James P. and Eleanor McQuistion. He received a public school education, and subsequently prosecuted his studies at Grove City College. He learned civil engineering under R.F. HUNTER, of Pittsburg, and located in Butler in 1888, where he has since been engaged in the duties of his profession. He has been city engineer four years, and is now serving his second term as county surveyor. Mr. McQUISTION was married January 19, 1887, to Sarah, a daughter of James STEWART, of Washington county, Pennsylvania. His wife died March 18, 1890. He was again married, May 14, 1891, to May, daughter of William ROYLE, of Allegheny township, Butler county, and has two children: Vane L., and Byron F. Mr. McQUISTION is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he is a Republican.

ISAAC MEALS, clerk of the board of county commissioners, was born in Washington township, Butler county, November 19, 1843, son of Joseph G. and Hannah (HILLIARD) MEALS. He was reared on the homestead farm, was edu-[p.813] cated in the common schools and at West Sunbury Academy, and graduated at Iron City College, Pittsburg, in 1867. The autumn after graduating he commenced teaching in his native township, which he followed during the winter seasons for five years, working on the farm in summer. He followed agricultural pursuits until February, 1891, when he was elected to his present position, which he has since filled in a highly satisfactory manner. Prior to his removal to Butler, he filled the office of county auditor, from 1871 to 1873. Mr. MEALS was married December 22, 1870, to Clara Gilmore, a step-daughter of Judge James KERR, who is the mother of three children, as follows: Horace G.; Bernice, and Erla. The family are connected with the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, Mr. MEALS is a consistent Republican.

ADAM KAMERER was born in Brady's Bend township, Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, February 2, 1845, son of Daniel and Anna Harriet KAMERER. He remained with his parents working upon the farm until February, 1864, when he enlisted in Company C, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and was mustered into the service at Pittsburg. He went with his company to Martinsburg, West Virginia, and participated in the Shenandoah campaign. He was honorably discharged at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, August 24, 1865, and returned to his home in Butler county. Mr. KAMERER was married May 9, 1867, to Julia A. HEPLER, a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth HEPLER, of Fairview township, and to this union have been born seven children, viz.: Lizzie A., wife of Harry TURNER, of Butler; Cora J., deceased; Maggie E.; Mary E.; Calvin E., deceased; Annie O., and Ida P. Mr. KAMERER followed farming in Donegal township until his removal to Butler in 1890. He is now filling the position of janitor in the court house. Politically, he is a Republican. He is a member of the Connoquenessing Lodge, Number 278, I.O.O.F., Butler Tent, Number 34, K.O.T.M., and A.G. Reed Post, Number 105, G.A.R.

JOHN HUSELTON was born near Lambertsville, New Jersey, in 1815, received a common school education, and was reared a farmer and tanner. He removed to Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, where he embarked in farming in connection with the lumber business. From there he came to Butler county and settled in Butler township, purchasing a farm of ninety acres. He also followed butchering, and was a contractor in the construction of the plank road. He finally purchased property in Butler, upon which he built a home, where he resided until his death, February 2, 1893. His wife survives, and resides in the old homestead. Mr. HUSELTON was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and a very worthy citizen. He was a Republican in politics, and served as justice of the peace for fifteen years. He took a very active part in developing the oil fields of Butler county.

JOHN F. HUSELTON was born in Butler county, August 9, 1853, and is a son of John HUSELTON. After receiving a common school education, he remained with his parents until attaining his majority, then went to Phildadelphia, where he was married to Josephine, daughter of Christopher HINCHBERGER of that city. Four children were born of this union: Christopher H.; John F.; Elmer S., and Josephine E. After his marriage he returned to Butler county, followed farming for two years, and then removed to Philadelphia, where he engaged in a wholesale stationery business, which he has continued up to the present. Desiring to make his home in Butler, he purchased a part of the DOUGAL property, upon which he erected the HUSELTON block, and two years later bought the ANDERSON block adjoining, also the residence of Frank BIEDENBACH, on McKean street, in which he resides. Mr. HUSELTON is a member of the Episcopal church, and in politics, he is a Republican.

STEPHEN H. HUSELTON was born in Butler township, Butler county, July 5, 1862, son of John HUSELTON. He received a common school education, came to Butler with his parents, and read law in the office of W.D. BRANDON. He was admitted to the bar April 10, 1886, and in 1888 embarked in the oil business, which he has since continued in connection with his legal practice. Mr. HUSELTON was married May 25, 1891, to Leverne, daughter of Capt. D.R. RODGERS, of Butler. Politically, he is a Republican, and was chairman of the county committee during the gubernatorial campaign of 1890.

CHARLES A. BAILEY, cashier of the Butler County National Bank, is a son of Capt. Daniel W. and Mary T. (RORKE) BAILEY, and was born in Buffalo, New York, February 18, 1858. His father came to Pithole, Venango county, in 1865, and subsequently embarked in the fancy goods business at Franklin, with branch stores at the different oil centers of Butler county. He returned to Buffalo, where he was appointed book-keeper in the pension department, which position he still occupies. The subject of this sketch was reared in Venango and Butler counties, and received his education in the public schools and at the State Normal School, at Edinboro. He was employed in the postoffices at Franklin, Petrolia, Millerstown, Butler and Pithole, at different periods, his father being postmaster at the last mentioned place. In 1882 Mr. BAILEY was appointed teller of the Butler County Bank, of Millerstown, held that position three years, and, in 1885, became book-keeper of the Butler Savings Bank, which position he filled until January, 1890. He then became book-keeper for the Butler Manufacturing Company, entered the Butler County National Bank in the capacity of assistant cashier that year, and in August, 1891, was elected cashier of the latter institution. In 1877 Mr. BAILEY was married to Abbie L., a daughter of Luther BADGER, of Warren county, and is the father of six children, as follows: Julian G.; Bell T.; Raymond W.; Francis F.; Agnes M., and Reese C., the last two of whom are deceased. He is a trustee in the Methodist Episcopal church of Butler, is a Prohibitionist, in politics, and is connected with K.of P., and K.of H.

JOHN W. BROWN was born in Harrisville, Butler county, Pennsylvania, November 9, 1843, son of Samuel and Eliza J. (WADDELL) BROWN, and grandson of Ebenezer BROWN, one of the first settlers of Mercer township. He grew to manhood in his native village, obtained a good common school education, and also received instruction from private teachers. He learned the tanner's trade, which he followed until 1879, and was then appointed to a clerkship in the prothonotary's office, by Alexander RUSSELL. He served under Mr. RUSSELL and his successor, M.N. GREER, for several years, and in 1885 was elected a justice of the peace for Butler, which position he held until 1887. He was then elected to the office of prothonotary, and was re-elected in 1890, filling that position six years. Mr. BROWN was also a jury commissioner in 1870, and a director of the public [p. 815] school for six years. Politically, he is a Democrat, and one of the leading members of his party in Butler county. In August, 1864, he enlisted in Company H, Sixth Heavy Artillery, and served until discharged, because of sickness, May 22, 1865. He is a member of A.G. Reed Post, G.A.R., also of the I.O.O.F., K.of P., A.O.U.W., and B.P.O.E. Mr. BROWN married Emma F., daughter of W.S. BINGHAM, of Centreville, Pennsylvania, and they are the parents of six children, four of whom are living: Jennie M.; Maude, wife of H.H. GOFF, of Erie, Pennsylvania; Bertie, and Horace B. The family are connected with the Presbyterian church of Butler.

EDWARD EVERETT ABRAMS was born July 9, 1856, at Rimersburg, Clarion county, Pennsylvania, and is a son of James H. and Hannah (McCUTCHEON) ABRAMS, and grandson of David ABRAMS, whose parents were pioneer settlers at Turkey Foot, Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania. Their ancestors came from Scotland, and the bible, over 100 years old, containing the beautifully written family record, is now in possession of Mr. ABRAMS. The subject of this sketch was reared in his native town, where he attended the common school and Clarion Collegiate Institute. He also attended the seminary at Clarion, and Dickinson Seminary, at Williamsport, Pennsylvania. He received his business education at Eastman's Business College, Poughkeepsie, New York, and his military training at Tarrytown-on-Hudson. He was, when eighteen years old, first sergeant of Company F, Seventeenth Regiment, N.G.P., and while in camp with two regiments was complimented by inspecting officers for best records. His father being largely engaged in the oil business, he began to assist him at Karns City in 1876, and from 1877 to 1879 they operated in the Bradford oil field. On August 20, 1879, Mr. ABRAMS was married, by the late Bishop Stevens, to M. Genevieve, daughter of Charles M. ALLEN, late consul to the Bermuda Islands, to which position he was appointed by President Lincoln during the Rebellion, and continued to fill it through every administration since that time up to his death, in 1888. Having purchased the farm on which Karns City is situated, he removed there in 1879, and thence to Butler in 1886. He is an ardent Republican, was elected a delegate to the State convention that nominated Senator QUAY for State treasurer, in 1885, served his party as chairman of the Republican county committee in the Beaver campaign, in 1886, and in 1892 was elected alternate delegate to the Republican National Convention at Minneapolis. Having been in a banking house several years, he was one of the active incorporators of the Butler County National Bank, of which he continues to be a director and member of the discount board. He continues to manage his property at Karns City and is engaged in the oil business and other enterprises. He is a newspaper writer of known reputation, having written many letters and sketches both for the oil country and metropolitan press, under the nom de plume of "Van Winkle." Mr. ABRAMS' family consists of the following children: Myra Genevieve; Edward Everett; Allen; Lucile; Eleanor, and John McClelland. The death of Dorothy Hannah, aged two years, recently occurred. The family are adherents of the Presbyterian church. He is recognized as one of the progressive citizens of the community.

[p. 816]

CHARLES A. ABRAMS, son of James H. and Hannah (McCUTCHEON) ABRAMS, was born March 5, 1858, at Rimersburg, Clarion county, Pennsylvania. He was educated in the public schools and at Clarion Collegiate Institute, and afterwards attended Sprague Commercial College, Kingston, New York. He then settled at Pittsburg, where he engaged in the brokerage business, and also filled the position of private secretary to J.H. WALTER, of Penn Bank. In 1888 he came to Butler and embarked in the real estate and insurance business, which he has successfully continued up to the present, and has been secretary of the Mechanics' Building and Loan Association of Butler for four years. In 1885 he married Jennie B., a daughter of William BLAKELEY, of Pittsburg, and has two children, Louisa H., and James H. Mr. ABRAMS is a supporter of the Republican party, and in religious faith, he is a member of the Presbyterian church.

HON. THOMAS W. PHILLIPS, the leading oil operator of western Pennsylvania, and member of Congress from this district, was born in what is now Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, February 23, 1835. Though a resident of New Castle, his prominence and success in the development of the Butler oil field have made his name a household word in every town and hamlet of Butler county. His father was a native of New Jersey and his mother of Philadelphia. They settled on the site of Old Enon, Lawrence county, in 1818, where his father soon after erected a fulling mill and saw mill. Ten years later they removed to a farm of one hundred acres near Mt. Jackson, where his father died, leaving a family of eight children, Thomas, the youngest, being about ten months old. The devoted wife and mother had a long and painful struggle to rear, support and educate her children. Thomas obtained his education in the common schools, supplemented by private instruction and self application in later years. He improved every opportunity and became well versed in the most practical branches of a general English education. He read, widely and judiciously, history, biography and scientific literature, was fond of the lyceum, and obtained local distinction as an original thinker and debater. He finally concluded to enter the ministry of the Disciples church, and at the age of twenty gave promise of attaining the ambition of his young manhood, but an injury to his lungs compelled him to abandon this purpose and turn his attention to some out-door pursuit, with a view to restoring his health.

About this time the oil business was attracting considerable attention, and he visited the oil region, embarked in the industry, and success crowned his efforts from the start. The business thus commenced was continued under the firm of Phillips Brothers, and attained such magnitude as to place this firm among the largest and most successful operators in the world. The firm was finally dissolved, and for a number of years Mr. Phillips has been pursuing the business alone. From that time down to the present he has continued the development of many different fields, and has led the van of enterprising operators to whom Butler county largely owes its present prosperity. In every movement for the protection or improvement of the producing industry, Mr. PHILLIPS has taken an active and leading part, and the producers and operators of western Pennsylvania owe him a debt of gratitude for his watchful care in thwarting hostile legislation. When the movement was undertaken to limit production and thus reduce [p. 817] the excessive stock of oil on hand, he firmly refused to curtail operations until a satisfactory provision, which he proposed, was made to compensate and protect the labor engaged in the industry, by setting aside 2,000,000 barrels of oil for its benefit.

Mr. PHILLIPS has had a remarkable business career, both for its success and the courage, honesty and tenacity displayed, when success was followed by reverses and the latter by greater good fortune. That which would have appalled a less courageous man only served to bring out his strong character, and, when almost overwhelmed with losses brought on by the unforeseen panic of 1873, the firm declined any financial compromise for their benefit, saying they would pay their indebtedness with interest. With indomitable energy, Mr. PHILLIPS launched into oil producing on a vast scale and a plan exclusively his own, and in the short term of fifteen years paid off over $800,000, and made good his promises to his creditors. Not only did he pay his indebtedness, but he accumulated besides a handsome fortune. It is not strange that he has won the unbounded confidence of the people of western Pennsylvania. His whole career has been characterized by remarkable executive ability, untiring industry and perserverance, great public enterprise, unswerving integrity and munificent charity.

Mr. PHILLIPS came prominently into public life in 1880, during the Garfield compaign. Being an ardent Republican and a warm personal friend of General Garfield, he laid aside his business and devoted his time and energies to the success of his friend and party. He conceived and planned the Republican textbook of that campaign, the first ever published, assisted in its compilation and became its financial backer. By his efforts in that campaign, he was brought into political prominence, and during the subsequent contest in the Pennsylvania legislature for the United States Senatorship, he repeatedly received votes in the open convention of both Houses. In the fall of 1890 great dissatisfaction existed in the party at the means claimed to have been used for the friends of the successful candidate in obtaining the nomination for Congress in the Twenty-fifth district at the New Castle convention, and Mr. PHILLIPS was afterwards prevailed upon to be a candidate. He was nominated at Harmony, Butler county, made the race, and, though it was impossible to elect a Republican with two candidates in the field, he polled such a large vote as to clearly demonstrate that he was the strongest Republican in the district. Two years passed away, and in the fall of 1892 he was the choice of his party, and was elected by over 4,000 majority. In 1894 he was re-elected by 11,741 majority, the largest ever given in the district, and is now serving his second term. He is a member of the committee on labor, and also that on merchant marine and fisheries. In the extra session of the Fifty-third Congress, he introduced a bill for the coinage of silver, based upon the natural law of supply and demand, believing there has been no sensible silver legislation since the Rebellion. This bill was favorably commented on by the press and a number of men of recognized financial ability.

At the second session of the Fifty-third Congress, Mr. Phillips introduced a bill, "Authorizing the appointment of a non-partisan commission to collate information and to consider and recommend legislation to meet the problems presented by labor, agriculture and capital." This bill was introduced late in the [p. 818] second session and referred to the committee on labor, and its author looks forward to its favorable consideration in some future session. It is a broad, comprehensive measure, and has been very favorably received by leading men, labor leaders, and newspapers of the country. Its importance may be judged from the fact that it deals with industrial and social problems now pressing for solution, which are the greatest political problems of the age. His many years of experience in the commercial and financial world have thoroughly fitted Mr. PHILLIPS for the duties of legislation, while his rigid industry and sterling integrity leaves no doubt that the interests of the district are safe in his hands.

Mr. PHILLIPS is prominently identifed with many of the leading interests of his home. He is president of the Citizens National Bank, of New Castle, holds the same position with the New Castle Street Electric Railway Company, is a trustee of Bethany College, in West Virginia, and also of Hiram College, in Ohio. He is a member of the State executive board of the Y.M.C.A., and few men have contributed so generously to religious, educational and charitable institutions. In 1862 he married Clarinda HARDMAN, of Lowellville, Ohio, who died in November, 1866, leaving two sons, Herbert C., and Norman A. Four years later he married Pamphylia HARDMAN, a younger sister of his first wife, and has three sons and one daughter by this union, viz.: Victor K., who is general and financial manager of his father's oil business; Thomas W.; Clarinda G., and Benjamin Dwight.

VICTOR K. PHILLIPS was born in New Castle, Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, February 7, 1872, and is a son of Hon. Thomas W. Phillips, member of Congress from this dictrict, and one of the most prominent oil operators in the United States. After receiving a public school education, and graduating at the High School, in New Castle, he studied under private tutors, but was compelled to give up his studies on account of weakness of the eyes. He came to the oil country when eighteen years of age, has been connected with his father ever since, and is now the general and financial manager of his father's extensive oil business in Butler county. Politically, he is a Republican.

JOHN Q.A. KENNEDY, oil operator, was born in Winfield township, Butler county, June 8, 1823, and is the eldest son of John and Ann C. KENNEDY, pioneers of that township. He was reared upon the farm, and was educated in the common schools and at Butler Academy. He followed school teaching for several years, and during the war was assistant provost marshal of this district. In 1860 he went into the oil business, in which he has been quite successful, is now one of the leading producers and operators in the county, and owns valuable production. On June 4, 1846, he married Hannah MAHARG, a daughter of John MAHARG, of Penn township, and is the father of two children, viz.: John G., and Newton, deceased. Politically, Mr. KENNEDY is a Republican, and has filled the office of justice of the peace, and also burgess of Butler. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and one of the well known, enterprising citizens of the borough. In 1884 he purchased the Clint WISER property in Butler, where he has since resided. He is recognized as one of the solid and substantial business men of his native county.

ANDREW WHITE MCCOLLOUGH was born on the old WHITE homestead, in Franklin township, Butler county, April 15, 1840, son of Matthew and Jane (WHITE) McCOLLOUGH. His parental and maternal grandparents were pioneers of Franklin township, and among the leading farmers of early days. His mother died when Andrew W. was only four years old, and he then went to make his home with his grandparents, Andrew S. and Angela WHITE, with whom he remained until he arrived at manhood. He was educated in the common and normal schools, and in Connoquenessing Academy, at Zelienople, and taught in Connoquenessing, Jackson and Franklin townships four terms. He then embarked in merchandising at Prospect, which he followed from 1861 to 1871. In the latter year he engaged in oil operations at Parker, Bear Creek, Millerstown, and Greece City, which he followed for several years with varied success. He was afterwards connected with the oil business in all its departments, and for the past thirty-three years he has been interested in oil and gas production, in the latter of which he has been eminently successful, having developed six of the largest gas fields in Pennsylvania. Mr. McCOLLOUGH is one of the best known and most widely informed gas and oil men in the State, is a recognized authority on the geological structure of the gas and oil regions, and possesses the largest private collection of standard works on geology in western Pennsylvania. His sound judgment and gratifying success in that line is admitted by all leading operators.

When at the height of a prosperous careed, Mr. McCOLLOUGH met with unlooked for reverses that swept away the earnings of many years and left him deeply involved on his own account and as an endorser for others. With inspired energy he went bravely to work to rebuild his shattered fortunes, and with abiding faith in the great gas belt of western Pennsylvania, he turned his attention to its exploration and development. His wonderful success in this direction soon built up his financial condition, and, with rare honesty, he has since paid off his entire indebtedness, besides tens of thousands of dollars for which he was but an endorser, in spite of the fact that he had gone through bankruptcy, and was not compelled, legally, to pay one cent. This exhibition of moral integrity has stamped him as a man of sterling honesty, who values his good name far more than riches. Mr. McCOLLOUGH was married on October 17, 1867, to Miss Mary BREDIN, a daughter of Edward M. and Adelia (PURVIANCE) BREDIN, both well known pioneer families of Butler. Three children have blessed this union, viz.: Marian; Kelt, and Harry Ford. Mrs. McCOLLOUGH and daughters are members of St. Peter's Protestant Episcopal church, while Mr. McCOLLOUGH is a member of the Presbyterian church. He has always been a stanch Republican, and has been connected with Butler Lodge, F.& A.M., since early manhood. He has given liberally of his means towards the advancement of education and religion, and enjoys the respect and confidence of the commonity.

THOMAS DONAGHY was born in County Antrim, Ireland, April 14, 1828, and is the eldest son of Joseph DONAGHY. He received a public school education in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, and spent his early manhood on the homestead in Brady township. In 1854 he embarked in the mercantile business at Adamsville, Crawford county, where he remained some four years, then sold out and [p. 820] removed to Washington, Iowa, where he taught school for one winter. Returning to Centerville, Butler county, he spent two years, working on the homestead in Brady township most of the time, and then went to Venango county and worked in the oil fields up to 1865. In that year he was elected justice of the peace in Cornplanter township, Venango county, and served five years. In 1870 he removed to Greenville, Mercer county, bought a farm and resided upon it two years, operating in oil. In 1872 he sold the farm and located in Butler, where he worked for the United Pipe Line Company two years. He then entered the prothonotary's office under Dr. CONN, and also served under his successor, H. TEBAY, when he was made deputy sheriff by George WALTER, and filled the same position under John MITCHELL and W.H. HOFFMAN. In 1882 he was elected sheriff of Butler county, and after serving his full term of three years, he continued as deputy sheriff under Peter KRAMER. After leaving this position he embarked in the oil business in the Harmony field, where he is still operating. Mr. DONAGHY was united in marriage November 9, 1854, to Miss Rebecca LYON, of Mercer county, to whom have been born seven children: Joseph M., deceased; Harry J.; Emma F.; Rosa A., widow of George W. ZIEGLER, and three who died in infancy. Mr. DONAGHY is a stanch adherent of the Democratic party, and both he and wife are members of the United Presbyterian church.

ALFRED WICK, eldest son of Andrew and Sarah (SHRYOCK) WICK, was born in West Sunbury, Butler county, August 31, 1837. He clerked in his father's store for some years, and subsequently became a member of the firm of Wick & Son, of West Sunbury. In 1862 he located at Rouseville, Venango county, and engaged in the hotel business, removing the following year to a farm in Washington township, Butler county, where he continued in agricultural pursuits until 1876. He then located in Butler, purchased the old Finley Hotel, changed the name to the Wick House, and carried it on until 1884. In 1885 he embarked in oil producing, has continued in that business up to the present, and is one of the leading operators of the county. In politics, he was a Republican until two years ago, since which time he has been a Prohibitionist. He is an elder in the Presbyterian church of Butler, and a liberal contributor to that church. Mr. WICK was married, September 15, 1859, to Sarah A. MECHLING, a daughter of Joseph MECHLING, of Washington township. Seven children have been born to this union, viz.: Alice; Harry, deceased; Mary, wife of David E. DALE; Stella A., wife of A.E. RUSSELL; Sarah Blanche; Frances G., and George B.

JOHN H. SUTTON was born in Clay township, Butler county, Pennsylvania, November 11, 1838. His father, Jeremiah SUTTON, was born in Fairview township, Butler county, in 1808, where his parents settled at an early day. Jeremiah was a shoemaker by trade, and also followed farming. He married Mrs. Margaret HARPER, nee SHRYOCK, of Butler county, in 1835. She died in 1842, leaving two children: Chambers S., and John H. The father died July 14, 1852. Both were members of the Presbyterian church. The subject of this sketch was educated in the district school, and, in 1853, commenced clerking in the store of Harper Brothers, at North Washington, where he remained until 1858. He spent the following three years in Iowa and Colorado, and then returning to Butler county, enlisted in Company C, Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserve, [p. 821] and was sworn in at Camp Wright, June 10, 1861. His regiment joined the Army of the Potomac, and he participated in the following battles: Gaines Mill, Second Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam and Fredericksburg. He was captured at Gaines Mill, and taken to Belle Isle, where he was kept as prisoner forty days and then exchanged. He returned to his regiment in September, 1862, and was promoted to second lieutenant. He was wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg, was taken prisoner and confined in Libby prison for two months, being paroled February 14, 1863, and sent to Annapolis Hospital, Maryland. He was honorably discharged July 3, 1863, and returning to Butler county, became a member of the firm of Harper Brothers, at North Washington, in 1864. In 1865 he sold out his interest and settled on a farm, where he remained until his election as clerk of courts in 1872. On the expiration of his term he embarked in the oil business, in which he is still engaged. Mr. SUTTON was married March 1, 1864, to Marie M., a daughter of Joseph and Nancy MECHLING, of Washington township, to which union have been born seven children: Emma L., wife of H.W. CHRISTIE, of Butler; Frank M.; Agnes E., wife of W.E. McCLUNG, of Butler; Maud H.; William D.; Angie A., and John C. Mr. SUTTON was originally a Republican, but is now a Prohibitionist, and is a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Butler.

MAJ. ROBERT J. PHIPPS, one of the division superintendents of the Forest Oil Company, is a well known and popular citizen of Butler, which has been his headquarters for several years. He was born in Clinton township, Venango county, Pennsylvania, January 24, 1839, a son of Joseph and Elizabeth Lowrie (WHANN) PHIPPS, both pioneer families of that county. He was reared in his native township, enlisted in Company H, Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry, October 14, 1861, and served until the close of the war, participating in fifty-six engagements and skirmishes, including every important battle in which the Army of the Potomac was engaged. He filled every grade in his regiment from private to major, served a year and a half as inspector general of the Second brigade, Second division, Cavalry corps, Army of the Potomac, and was breveted lieutenant colonel near the close of the war upon the recommendation of General SHERIDAN, "for gallant, efficient and meritorious services in action." Major PHIPPS was one of the most efficient soldiers from Venango county, and his comrades gladly accord him that honor. After the war he followed merchandising for a considerable period, and was also a justice of the peace at Clintonville twelve years. In 1875 he entered the employ of the Phillips Brothers, then operating in the Bullion oil field, and continued as one of their most valuable and trusted men throughout their operations in Venango and Butler counties until 1890, when he became associated with the Forest Oil Company, and has since occupied his present responsible position. Major PHIPPS was married January 16, 1865, to Hattie A. CROSS, a daughter of Judge Robert CROSS, of Clintonville. Of their two children, Marshall L. survives, and is a member of the Venango bar. Major PHIPPS is a Republican, but takes no active interest in public affairs. He was one of the organizers of Encampment, Number 45, U.V.L., of Butler, of which he has been colonel commander, and is also a member of the G.A.R., the F.& A.M., and other fraternal societies.

ISAIAH J. McCANDLESS, oil operator, is a son of Nathan F. and Elizabeth (THOMPSON) McCANDLESS, and was born on the homestead in Centre township, Butler county, August 24, 1843. He received his primary education in the common schools, and afterwards attended West Sunbury Academy, Prospect Academy, and Witherspoon Institute, and taught in the public schools of the county for several years. In 1864 he enlisted in Company A, Two Hundred and Twelfth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. In 1865 he went into the oil fields of Venango county, and subsequently operated in Butler, Armstrong and McKean counties. From 1873 to 1878 he was engaged in oil producing at Greece city, and in Concord township, and in 1882 he located in Butler. His present production is in Connoquenessing and Washington townships, and he is also engaged in farming the old McCANDLESS homestead, which he owns. He was secretary of the Soldiers' Monument Society, and took an active interest in the erection of the monument in Butler. He is a member of the A.G. Reed Post, G.A.R., and also of Butler Lodge, Number 272, F.&.A.M. He has always taken a deep interest in the progress of education, and has served as a school director for several years. He has been a life-long member of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, is a stanch Republican. Mr. McCANDLESS was married in 1869, to Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel KELLY, of Butler township. They are the parents of three children: Aden B.; Rosamond, and Lillian. He has erected many of the private dwellings in the borough, is one of the successful oil producers of Butler county, and is a stockholder, director, and treasurer of the Citizens Gas Company, of which he was one of the incorporators. He is recognized as an enterprising, liberal and progressive business man.

HARVEY S. GIBSON was born on the Gibson homestead in Parker township, Butler county, September 2, 1844, son of James and Jane GIBSON. He was reared on a farm, received a common school education, and learned the carpenter's trade. In 1869 he went to Petroleum Centre, where he engaged in rig building, which he followed through the extension of the oil fields down to Parker, where he commenced as an operator. He has continued in the oil industry in connection with contracting down to the present, removing to Butler in 1880, where he had purchased a property in 1873. Mr. GIBSON was married on March 21, 1866, to Margaret GAHEGAN, of Washington township, Armstrong county. They are the parents of five children, viz.: Anna J., wife of Barnhardt E. ROESSING; Mary A.; Cora B, wife of William J. RICE; Minnie E., and Stella A. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and is a trustee in the Butler congregation. In politics, he is independent, has served in the borough council, and is now president of the board of health. Mr. GIBSON is a member of Camp Number 14, W.of W.

HENDERSON W. CHRISTIE was born in Portersville, Butler county, March 11, 1845, eldest son of Thomas G. and Nancy R. CHRISTIE, and grandson of Thomas CHRISTIE, a pioneer of 1812. After receiving a common school education he attended a select school at Centreville, and also Witherspoon Institute. In 1870 he was severly injured by a fall, which resulted in necrosis, ans he was bedfast for ten years. In 1882 he was nominated and elected, on the Repub-[p. 823] can ticket, register and recorder of Butler county, and served a full term. He went into the oil business in 1886 at Renfrew, his first well producing twenty-five barrels per day. He put down his second well on the Williamson BARTLEY farm at Thorn Creek, which came in at 7,000 barrels per day. Since that time he has operated in the Evans City, the Amberson and Little Creek fields in Butler county, and also in West Virginia, but is at present confining his operations to the Amberson, Callery and Garvin fields. On December 9, 1884, he married Emma L. SUTTON, a daughter of John H. SUTTON, of Butler, and has five children, viz.: Georgia M.; Catherine; Jean; Charles H., and H.W., Jr. Mr. CHRISTIE is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and is recognized as one of the most energetic business men of the county.

W.V. HARDMAN was born at Minerva, Stark county, Ohio, September 20, 1840, and was a son of David W. and Nancy (ARTER) HARDMAN. After reaching manhood he was employed in his father's grist mill at Lowellville, Ohio, for some years. He was afterwards appointed by William Pitt FESSENDEN, secretary of the United States treasury, supervisor of the port at Cairo, Illinois, which position he filled until the close of the war. He then engaged in the grocery business at Centralia, Illinois, and there married Mary M., daughter of Andrew SCOTT, July 28, 1865. After his marriage he removed to Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, and soon after entered the employ of Phillips Brothers, Boyles & Company as a pumper, subsequently took charge of the steam pump for supplying the water in their oil operations in the Petroleum Centre field, Venango county, and later was promoted to superintendent of the Petroleum Centre and Pithole fields, which position he filled until the dissolution of the company. He was then appointed general manager for the Phillips Brothers in their Butler county operations, and from 1873 to 1875 was engaged in leasing oil lands in Butler and Clarion counties. In connection with Maj. R.J. PHIPPS, he leased all the lands now operated by the Forest Oil Company in the Glade Run field, and was afterwards engaged in leasing and disposing of gas and oil properties for Thomas W. PHILLIPS. Mr. HARMAN was in confidential business relations with Mr. PHILLIPS from his first oil operations to the time of his death, July 23, 1894. His family consists of two sons and one daughter, as follows: Charles S., a lawyer of the Pittsburg bar; William, a photographer, and Edith, wife of H.M. WERTZ. Politically, Mr. HARDMAN was a Republican, and was one of the well-known citizens of Butler, where he resided for twelve years. The family were members of the Protestant Episcopal church of Butler, and liberal supporters of that organization during their residence here.

WILSON E. REED was a son of Wilson E. and Sarah S. REED, and grandson of Colonel Robert REED, a pioneer of Harrisville, Butler county. He was born at Whitestown, in Connoquenessing township, June 10, 1846, and was reared on the homestead farm, assisting in the farm duties and attending school during the intervals, when not engaged in his labors at home. While still a youth, he enlisted in Company E, One Hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers, better known as the "Roundheads," and served with that command until the muster out, July 24, 1865. Returning to Butler county, he found, in a few years, a new line of labor opened to him, and going into the Parker oil field engaged in [p. 824] rig building. Becoming a contractor, he drilled many of the early wells in the Parker field, thence went into the Bradford field, and in 1880 followed the developments southward until he again found himself in his native county. From that period down to the close of 1891 he was largely interested in oil production and controlled many wells. He also became interested in other enterprises, and was identified with the general progress of the community. Late in 1891, or early in 1892, he began to experience the existence of financial stringency. His investments depreciated and the rewards of almost a quarter century's labor and judicious speculation were threatened with ruin. His nature could not brook such a radical reversal of fortune, and his death was recorded October 18, 1893. He was a member of the Protestant Episcopal church of Butler, also of the school board and council. Mr. REED married Miss Susan MOOK, of New Lebanon, Pennsylvania, April 11, 1867. To this marriage six children were born, namely: Elsie O.; Delmar F.; Lucy E.; Nora; Raymond E., and Daisy E., deceased. During the spring of 1893, Mr. REED was exposed to repeated attacks of sickness, which recurred at intervals until the close of his life. He was a member of the I.O.O.F., K.of P., A.O U.W., K.O.T.M., B.P.O.E., and other kindred associations, and was highly respected by the people of this community.

AARON BIEGHLEY, second son of Michael and Catherine BIEGHLEY, was born in Lancaster township, Butler county, February 25, 1844, was reared upon his father's farm, and received a common school education. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, was mustered into the service at Pittsburg, and served until June 1, 1863, when he was honorably discharged. On February 15, 1864, he re-enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Twelfth Pennsylvania Volunteers, went with his regiment to Georgetown Camp, thence to Fort Ethan Allan, Cold Harbor, City Point, Weldon Railroad, Chapman's farm, and Petersburg, and was discharged at Philadelphia, January 29, 1866. Returning to his home in Butler county, he afterwards learned the carpenter's trade, and worked in New Castle, Lawrence county, until 1876. In that year he located in the Bullion oil field, and has since been connected with the oil producing interests of western Pennsylvania. In 1880 he came to Butler, and is now superintendent of rig building for Thomas W. PHILLIPS. Mr. BIEGHLEY was married in May, 1872, to Matilda MOYER, a daughter of Samuel MOYER, of Lancaster township, to which union have been born nine children, viz.: Ada E.; Elsie H.; Samuel E.; Howard P.; Julian C., deceased; Hosea W.; Plummer M.; Nora L., and Darley M. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he is a Republican.

JAMES A. BONNER, son of Archibald D. and Susannah BONNER, was born in Clinton township, Venango county, Pennsylvania, October 18, 1847. He attended the public schools of his township, and worked upon his father's farm until 1864, when he went into the oil business at East Sandy, Venango county, and subsequently followed the same business at Scrubgrass, Foxburg, and Foster Island, also operated at different points along the Allegheny river, and at Bullion, Venango county. In 1876 he entered the employ of the Phillips Brothers, and has continued with them for the past eighteen years. In 1881 he came to Butler county, and located in the borough of Butler, and in 1891, purchased a part of [p. 825] the HEINER property, upon which he erected his present residence. Mr. Bonner was married in 1866, to Catherine RIDDLE, a daughter of John P. RIDDLE, of Clinton township, Venango county, to which union have been born the following children: John R.; Ada C.; Tilton A.; Linnie L.; Charles P.; Florence J., and Floyd A., twins, and Edna K. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically, he is an ardent Democrat and is a member of the school board.

HORACE Z. WING was born at Stillwater, New York, May 28, 1845, son of Charles H. and Fannie (KEECH) WING. His father was a son of Isaac and Permelia WING, and was born in Saratoga county, New York, in 1815. He was an inventor and a manufacturer of stoves, plows and machinery. In 1839 he married Fannie, a daughter of Rev. Israel KEECH, of Clifton Park, New York, and died in 1850. His wife died in 1867. They were the parents of four children, viz.: Elon G.; Laura O.; Horace Z., and Lottie A. The subject of this sketch was educated in the public schools, and afterwards clerked in a general store until the war commenced. He then enlisted in Company H, Second New York Infantry, and went to Washington, D.C., where he was rejected because of his youth. Returning to his home, he afterwards enlisted in Company H, Fifteenth New York Infantry, and participated in all the battles of his regiment. He was mustered out at Raleigh, North Carolina, in June, 1865. He then went to Hoosic Falls, and learned the carpenter's trade. In 1869 he located in Titusville, and engaged in the oil business, and in 1872 came to Parker City, Armstrong county, in the employ of the Union Pipe Line Company. From there he removed to Karns City, Butler county, where he was employed by the same company, which consolidated with the United Pipe Line Company in 1877-78. In 1883 he settled at Millerstown, and in 1890 removed to Butler, where he now resides. In July, 1892, Mr. WING accepted the superintendency of the Producers and Refiners Oil Company, Limited, which position he now holds. On May 13, 1871, he was united in marriage with Caroline WICKES, a daughter of Owen WICKES, of Delaware county, New York, and has two children, Fannie and Millie. Mr. WING is a Republican, is a member of McDermott Post, Number 223, G.A.R., of Millerstown, and Butler Encampment, Number 45, U.V.L. He is also connected with the Union Ex-Prisoners of War Association, of Allegheny county.

J.B. BLACK, oil operator, is the eighth son of James and Nancy A. (RUSSELL) BLACK, and was born on the homestead in Marion township, Butler county, July 6, 1847. He attended the schools of his native township until the age of fourteen and then went to Clarion county, where he learned the tanner's trade with John REYNOLDS. In 1863 he enlisted in Company D, Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Militia, and served six weeks. He subsequently entered the employ of James CALLERY, a tanner of Pittsburg, with whom he was employed until February 25, 1864, when he enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Sixteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war, being discharged July 14, 1865. Mr. BLACK participated in the battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, North Anna, Cold Harbor and Petersburg. Returning to Franklin in 1865, he soon after located at Pithole, Venango county, and engaged in the oil business, since which time he has followed oil producing and contracting in [p. 826] the oil fields of Pennsylvania and New York. He married Emma, daughter of Rev. Edmund BURKE, November 19, 1884, and has three children: Kate; Maude, and James E. He was chairman of the borough council in 1891-92, when the streets and sewer improvements were made. He is P.M. of Butler Lodge, Number 272, F.& A.M., is a member of Butler Chapter Number 273, Tancred Commandery, Number 48, and Consistory of Pittsburg, and is connected with A.G. Reed Post, G.A.R., the I.O.O.F., K.of P., and B.P.O.E. He takes an active interest in political and public affairs, and is a stanch adherent of the Republican party.

JOHN YOUNKINS, son of William and Sarah YOUNKINS, was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, May 5, 1848, received a common school education, and was reared upon a farm. In July 1869, he went into the oil business at Parker's Landing, afterwards at Shamburgh, Venango county, and then at Mount Hope, Clarion county. In 1871 he came to Petrolia, Butler county, and subsequently operated in the Bradford and Warren fields, whence he returned to Butler in September, 1884, since which time he has followed oil producing in this county. On December 27, 1877, he married Naomi C., a daughter of Robert CAMPBELL, of Parker township, Butler county, and has a family of four children, viz.: Edith M.; Myrtle F.; Earl L., and Vera G. Mr. YOUNKINS is an adherent of the Democratic party, and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. In February, 1894, he was elected tax collector of the borough of Butler, which office he is now filling. He is a member of Ziegler Lodge, I.O.O.F., and is a charter member of McNair Lodge, A.O.U.W.

DANIEL YOUNKINS, oil operator, was born near Slate Lick, Armstrong county, June 27, 1854, son of William and Sarah YOUNKINS, natives of Westmoreland county. After arriving at maturity, he came to Butler county, and in the fall of 1876 he engaged in the oil industry at Fairview, whence he went to the Bradford field, thence to McKean, Forest and Warren counties, successively. In 1884 he returned to this county and settled in the borough of Butler, which has since been his home. On September 10, 1884, he married Eva E. MINTEER, a daughter of Joseph MINTEER, of Craigsville, Armstrong county, and has five children, viz.: Josie S.; Mabel V.; William M.; Victor D., and Florence E. In 1889 he erected his present residence on Brady street, and is also the owner of a brick block on South Main street, besides a farm of eighty acres in Armstrong county. Mr. YOUNKINS is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and a liberal contributor towards that society. Politically, he is a Democrat, and is a member of the borough council. He is connected with Ziegler Lodge, I.O.O.F., and also with the W.of W.

AMOS STEELSMITH, oil operator, was born near Edenburg, Clarion county, Pennsylvania, September 15, 1851, son of Michael STEELSMITH, a native of the same place, born March 10, 1812. In 1843 Michael STEELSMITH married Mary E. LEVY, a daughter of Christopher LEVY, of Union county, who bore him the following children: Mary A.; Nancy; Jane E.; John H.; Alice; Permilla O.; Amos, and Vine P. In 1858, the family removed to Mercer county, where the mother died, January 19, 1889. Her husband survived her nearly six years, dying July 7, 1894, at the home of his daughter Mary, in New Lebanon, Mercer county. [p. 827] They were members of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, adherents of the Republican party. Amos was about seven years old when his parents removed to Mercer county. He was reared upon the homestead farm, and attended the common schools of his district. In 1874 he engaged in the oil business at Edenburg, subsequently at Sandy Point, Butler county, and later at Clarendon, Warren county. In May, 1886, he went to the Findley, Ohio, oil field, where he remained until coming to Butler county, in January, 1890. He commenced operations in the Glade Run field, where he is still interested, and is also operating successfully in the Cooperstown field. In 1893 he established the Butler Lubricating Oil Company, the business office being at 119 West Jefferson street, in Butler. Mr. STEELSMITH was married August 15, 1873, to Elizabeth Davidson, a daughter of Thomas Davidson, of Emlenton, Venango county. One daughter, Sadie, wife of Prof. William F. BRAUN, of Pittsburg, was born to this union. The family are connected with the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, Mr. STEELSMITH is a Prohibitionist. He is a charter member of the Producers Protective Association of Butler, and is extensively engaged in their refining business.

BLAIR HOOKS was born in Washington township, Armstrong county, July 3, 1850, son of William and Penina HOOKS, of Cambridge county, Ohio. He was reared in his native county, and afterwards went to Venango county, where he worked in the oil fields. In 1867 he located at Parker, spent six years at that point, and then removed to the Millerstown field. In 1884 he began operations at Martinsburg, where he remained seven years. Coming to Butler in 1890, he embarked in the natural gas business, later assisted in organizing the Peoples' Gas Company, of Butler, of which he was chosen the first president, and is still actively engaged in the same business. Mr. HOOKS was married August 14, 1875, to Sarah E. PHILLIPS, a daughter of George PHILLIPS, of Brady's Bend. Three children are the fruits of this union, viz.: Harry G.; Elsie M., and Grace.

JOHN F. ANDERSON was born at Mt. Chestnut, Butler county, February 14, 1852, and is a son of James D. and Mary A. ANDERSON. He was educated at the public schools, and Witherspoon Institute, subsequently taught school and then went west, where he remained for three years. Returning to Butler county, he embarked in merchandising at Renfrew, in partnership with his brother, under the firm name of Anderson Brothers. He sold out his business and came to Butler, where he engaged in oil producing, but is now book-keeper for the Natural Gas Company. Mr. ANDERSON was married June 25, 1883, to Miss Iona M. HEAP, and has two children: Frank C., and James G. He is a member of the Presbyterian church of Butler, is a ruling elder in that body, and is president of the Christian Endeavor Society of the Presbyterian church.

ELZIE H. ANDERSON, son of James D. and Mary A. (MARTIN) Anderson, was born in Prospect, Butler county, July 22, 1854. He obtained a common school education and then took a course at Witherspoon Institute, after which he taught for two years. He afterwards entered the register and recorder's office as assistant to his father, who was elected to that position in Novlember, 1875, remained until the election of H.H. GALLAGHER, and served with him during his term of office. In 1882 he went to Denver, Colorado, but returned to Butler county in May, 1883, and embarked in merchandising with his brother John F., at Ren-[p. 828] frew. In October, 1886, he sold his interest in the store, and removed to Butler, and engaged in the grocery business. He erected a new store building, which he sold to Kirkpatrick & Reed, in 1890, and then purchased his present home on the corner of Clay and Bluff streets. In 1892 he bought the undertaking establishment of Jacob KECK, which he carried on some two years. In 1893 he became manager for the Butler Lubricating Oil Company, and has since filled that position. Mr. ANDERSON was married on February 18, 1875, to Agnes HARPER, a daughter of R.M. HARPER, now a resident of Butler, and has three children, viz.: Eugene E.; Madge B., and Helen A. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and has been a trustee in that organization since 1886. Politically, he is a Democrat, and is a member of Ziegler Lodge, I.O.O.F., and also of the Y.M.C.A.

MORGAN DAVIS, oil operator, was born at Queenstown, Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, February 5, 1855, son of William J., and Susannah (VOYLE) DAVIS, who were the parents of sixteen children, eleven sons and two daughters, thirteen of whom are living. Morgan received a common school education, and after arriving at manhood he engaged in the oil business near his home, as a driller. He afterward became a contractor and operator, which he has confinued down to the present. He is now interested in the Butler oil field, also in the Sisterville field, where he has been quite successful. Mr. DAVIS has always been an ardent sportsman, an admirer of a good dog and a good horse, and among his dogs may be found sons of the champion, Breeze Gladstone, and other leading hunters. On April 18, 1893, Mr. DAVIS married Margaret OESTERLING, a daughter of Leonard OESTERLING, of Summit township, Butler county. He is one of the well known residents of the borough, and a gentleman of enterprise and public spirit. In politics, he is an ardent Republican, and is a prominent member of the Masonic order.

PHILIP V. DAVIS, son of William J. and Susannah DAVIS, of Brady's Bend, Armstrong county, was born at Brady's Bend, July 26, 1853. He obtained a common school education, and when twenty-one years of age he commenced the business of tool dressing, at Criswell City, and within two years began operating. Since that time he has been contracting and oil producing, with the exception of two years, during which he traveled through the gold and silver producing states, and the California oil region, with Emmett QUEEN, now of Queen & Guffey, of Pittsburg. Mr. DAVIS is now operating in the Cooperstown, Hickey, Gould and Herman fields. In politics, he is an unswerving Republican, and is an active party worker. He is a member of the Masonic order, and is connected with the Lodge, Chapter and Consistory, and is also a member of Butler Lodge, Number 170, B.P.O.E.

JOHN NEVIN JOHNSTON, son of John and Elizabeth (CRAWFORD) JOHNSTON, was born in Pine township, Mercer county, Pennsylvania, May 3, 1856. He obtained a common school education and took a commercial course at Duff's Commercial College, Pittsburg, graduating in 1878. He then carried on a general store at Grove City until 1879, when he engaged in the oil business on the GRANT farm, in Butler county. He had previously been in the same business in Hovey township, Armstrong county. In 1882, he located in Butler, and has since continued in the [p. 829] oil business. His first operations were in the Bald Ridge field, and he subsequently operated in the Thorn Creek, Glade Run, Mars, Petersville and Adams township fields. He afterwards operated in Washington county, but returned to Butler county in 1893, where he has continued operating in the Brownsdale and Cooperstown districts. Mr. JOHNSTON was married May 11, 1892, to Lulu V. FRITZ, a daughter of Frank R. FRITZ, of St. Petersburg, Clarion county, and has one daughter, Helen R. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, a Republican. He is connected with Ziegler Lodge, I.O.O.F., and is a charter member of the Producers Protective Association.

JOHN FERGUSON was born in Clarion county, Pennsylvania, in 1822, was educated at a subscription school and learned the stone mason's trade. In 1851 he came to Butler county and the following year married Julia GRAHAM, a daughter of Capt. Alexander GRAHAM, of Forward township, soon after moved to Armstrong county, and, in 1853, returned to this county and located at Petersville. He subsequently removed to Prospect, where he died October 2, 1867. He was the father of five children, as follows: Rolandus H.; Margaret A., wife of S.C. BELL of Millerstown; Sarah A., wife of A.K. GILLESPIE of Bradford; Alexander L., and Eliza J. His widow survived him several years, dying February 25, 1887. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and died in that faith.

ROLANDUS H. FERGUSON was born in Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, April 10, 1853, eldest son of John and Julia FERGUSON. He learned the painter's trade, and worked at it until 1872, in which year he embarked in the oil business at Greece City. Since that time he has followed drilling and oil producing at Greece City, and St. Joe, also in Bradford and Warren counties, and at Evans City, Butler county. In 1887 he located at Butler where he has since resided. Mr. FERGUSON had charge of the Bovaird & Seyfang Company's business, in Butler, until February, 1894, since which time he has been in the machinery and oil well supply business. He is a stanch Republican, is a member of the Masonic order, and is a trustee of Butler Lodge, B.P.O.E.

JEFFERSON C. CARNER was born in Rockland township, Venango county, January 1, 1859, son of John CARNER, and grandson of John CARNER. His father was born at Bellefont, Centre county, March 22, 1817, removed to Venango county with his parents in 1827, and settled in Rockland township, where his father purchased a farm. He married Sarah A. TURK, of that township, in 1847, and became the father of seven children, as follows: Elizabeth, deceased wife of Benjamin F. DONALDSON; Eva, deceased wife of Frederick FRY; Albert; Sarah, deceased; Jefferson C.; Gilbert C., and Martha J. John CARNER is still a resident of Rockland township. The subject of this sketch was reared upon his father's farm and went to work in the oil country as a pumper. He followed the oil industry until 1880, and then engaged in the torpedo business, removing to Butler in 1884, where he continued the same. In 1886 he went to Allegany county, New York, where he followed drilling and afterwards put down two wells in Venango county for himself. He finally located in Butler permanently, becoming a member of the torpedo firm of C.H. Ford & Company. In 1889 he sold his interest to O.M. RUSSELL, and has since devoted his attention to oil pro-[p. 830] ducing. Mr. CARNER was married November 29, 1888, to Ella A. STEVENSON, a daughter of Nathaniel and Martha STEVENSON, of Centre township, Butler county. Three children have been born to this union, viz.: Georgia A., and Glennie S., both deceased, and Hellen I. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, a Republican. He is connected with Ziegler Lodge, Number 1039, and Clement Encampment, Number 238, I.O.O.F., also with Tent, Number 34, K.O.T.M.

LAWSON E. BRACKNEY was born on the homestead in Clay township, Butler county, January 10, 1851, was reared upon the farm, and attended the common schools of his district. He went to Parker's Landing in 1870, and became a tool dresser and driller, and in 1880 began operating in the Washington township field. He afterwards operated several years in the Bradford field, coming to the borough of Butler in 1885, since which time he has been engaged in oil producing in the Glade Run field. Mr. BRACKNEY was married to Elizabeth HUNT, a daughter of Samuel HUNT, of Clay township, October 26, 1872, and has four children, viz.: Orvill J.; Harry; Ralph, and Ruth. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, he is a Democrat. He is connected with Ziegler Lodge, I.O.O.F., and the Uniform Rank, K.of P.

ELMER E. KELLY son of Thomas W. and Rosanna KELLY, was born upon the homestead farm in Parker township, Butler county, October 3, 1861, obtained a common school education, and when fifteen years of age commenced working at the oil business, at which he has since continued. In 1878 he went to Colorado and Arizona, whence he returned to Butler county and located at Petrolia, where he was connected with a pipe line company four years. In 1886 he located at Butler, and became superintendent of the W. and A. Pipe Line. Upon the organization of the Citizens Gas Company, he became superintendent, which position he still occupies. On November 3, 1891, he married Dorette WISENER, a daughter of Philip WISENER, of Butler, Mr. KELLY is one of the active workers in the Republican party, and is a member of Millerstown Lodge, K.of P., Petrolia Lodge, R.A., and Butler Lodge B.P.O.E.

THOMAS J. McBRIDE, son of Francis McBRIDE, was born in Butler, Pennsylvania, in 1832, and was reared and educated in his native county. In 1862 he enlisted in Captain FRAMPTON's company, Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, was mustered in at Mercer, and served with his regiment until the close of the war. In 1865 he embarked in the oil business, and continued to follow it until his death. In 1854 he married Ellen BAILEY, of Mercer county, to which union were born seven children, as follows: Laura, who married J.S. COOPER; Sarah, who married Dennis O'CONNER; William C.; Mary; Frank, deceased; Paul J., and Jerry, deceased. Mr. McBRIDE was a member of the Catholic church, and in politics, a Democrat. He died in Butler, October 1, 1888.

PAUL J. McBRIDE was born in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, March 11, 1867, received a common school education, and when quite a youth commenced working at the oil business. In 1876 he went to Parker, and three years later located at Bradford, where he remained until the Thorn Creek excitement, and then came to Butler. He continued operating in the Butler field until 1892, since [p. 831] which year he has been engaged in West Virginia. Mr. McBRIDE is a stanch Democrat, and in religion, is a member of the Catholic church.

MARK HARGEN BROOKS was born in Groton, Tompkins county, New York, son of Mark H. and Betsey (WOOD) BROOKS, of that town. His parents were natives of New York, his mother being a daughter of David WOOD, a deacon in the Presbyterian church, to which denomination both she and husband belonged. The subject of this sketch was the youngest in a family of nine children, eight of whom are living, was reared in his native place, and received his education at Groton Academy. His eldest brother, Samuel, having studied law with John W. RYON, of Lawrenceville, Tioga county, Pennsylvania, located there in practice, and Mark H., while on a visit to Lawrenceville, engaged in teaching school in Tioga county, where he followed that vocation for three terms. He afterwards engaged in clerking in a hotel in connection with the insurance business, which he has since followed in western Pennsylvania. In 1890 he came to Butler as a clerk in the Willard Hotel, and has since been connected with the Willard and Lowry. At the present time he has charge of the business of George PALM, of Butler, a patentee of and dealer in oil well supplies. Mr. BROOKS is an unswerving Democrat, and during his fifteen years residence in Mercer county he became a popular member of that party, and was nominated for clerk of the courts in 1890. Although the county had a Republican majority of 1,400, he was defeated by less than 400 votes.

[End of Chapter 70-3 (pgs.775-831) - Biographical Sketches, Borough of Butler, History of Butler County Pennsylvania, R. C. Brown Co., Publishers, 1895.]

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