BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, BELMONT COUNTY, OHIO

"History of the Upper Ohio Valley" Vol. II, 1890.

Presented by Linda Fluharty from hard copies provided
by Mary Staley & Phyllis Slater.


Pages 546-547.

WILLIAM MANN, of Martin's Ferry, a prominent manufacturer, was born at
Coatbridge, Lanarkshire, Scotland, October 28, 1845. His parents,
James L. and Elizabeth (Walker) Mann, were both natives of the shire
of Fife, Scotland, and the father was for over twenty-five years
engaged with the Summerlea Iron company of Coatbridge, in the black-
smithing and carpentry department. He brought his family to the
United States in 1876, and was occupied for a short time in farming,
but at present resides at Little Falls. His wife died in 1889. They
had six children, five of whom are now living. The subject of this
sketch received his education at his home in Scotland. He served
an apprenticeship of five years in pattern making in the Summerlea
Iron works, and then took a position in the Atlas foundry and machine
shops, where, after six months' experience, he was promoted foreman,
a position he held for three years, and until his immigration to
America. Soon after reaching this country, he became engaged with the
firm of D. M. Ford & Co., of Chicago, and soon afterward removed to
Pittsburgh, where, for three years, he held a position with Dixon,
Marshall & Co. Coming to Martin's Ferry in about 1874, he entered the
employment of Culperston, Wiley & Co., as pattern maker, and remained
with that house until 1879, when he leased the works, and embarked
in business on his own account. Subsequently he became the sole owner
of the works, now the largest foundry and machine shop in Martin's
Ferry. Besides this important property, Mr. Mann is a stockholder in
other larger manufactories and is widely known as a successful and
prosperous business man. His success in life is owing to his own
industry and business skill, as he began in this country without
capital. He is a public spirited citizen, and active in social
enterprises. He and wife, whose maiden name was Janet McGilvray,
are active members of the Presbyterian church. In politics he is a
republican.