M. S. Ridgeway came to Danville about 1844 and has since been one of our most valuable and enterprising citizens, except a brief period when he was manager of a rolling-mill, in Youngstown, Ohio. Long years as manager of the large iron manufactory originally known as the "Montour Works," tried him to the utmost and brought out those sterling qualities of character that mark the able executive, as well as the man. His daily intercourse with the thousands of employees who have been under his charge, is always dignified and courteous, and at the same time firm and exacting where duty to all is involved. Strangers or casual observers are apt to regard him as somewhat cold and austere. But this seeming may be the result of constant habit in controlling the varied and oft times turbulent elements, incident to a large corps of operatives, and in exacting from each the duties required. On other occasions the sunny side of his nature is manifested, and no man in the comunity is more generous or liberal, social or benevolent. No workingman worthy of a favor ever appealed to him in vain, and many will long remember his substantial efforts in their behalf. The iron worker before his glowing furnace, will bless the man who introduced a shield, to defend him from the burning heat. No only does the improved furnace door defend the worker; but it is also of great pecuniary advantage to the manufacturer. He who contributes in any degree, to the benefit of mankind, is more worthy of note than he who conquers millions.
Mr. Ridgeway enjoys, as he justly merits, a wide reputation as a successful manager of iron works, as well as a complete knowledge of iron in all its combinations, grades and forms. His son, E. O. Ridgeway, is making his mark in the same direction.
