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:

THOMAS McKEE, a soldier of the Revolution, was the progenitor of the McKEE family of Butler township. He was born in Ireland, in 1749, a son of David McKEE, and came to Pennsylvania with his brother John in 1767. They settled in the Cumberland valley, in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and on the breaking out of the Revolution, Thomas enlisted in Captain CLUGGAGE's Company, First Regiment of the Pennsylvania Line, and was in the battles of Brandywine and Germantown. At the close of the war he settled in the Tuscarora valley, Mifflin county, whence he removed to Ligonier, Westmoreland county, in 1794. In 1796 he came to Butler county, whither his son James had preceded him, and settled on a tract of land three miles west of the site of Butler, the farm now occupied by William BARNHART. His wife was Martha HOGE, and they [p. 832] reared a family of seven sons and two daughters, as follows: James, who served as sheriff of Butler county, and also in the legislature, and died in 1832; Hugh, who died in Butler, in 1835; Robert (1), who died in infancy; David, who joined the Mormons, and died at Nauvoo, Illinois; John, who died on the Mississippi; Thomas, who moved to Kentucky, and was mortally wounded while making an arrest as a police officer; Robert, who died on Red river, Arkansas,, in 1847; Letitia, who married John DUNBAR, and moved to Indiana, and Jane, who married James McKEE, of Butler county. The father died in June, 1815, and was buried in the old cemetery at Butler.

JAMES McKEE was born in 1780, and was the eldest child of Thomas McKEE. He came to Butler county in 1795, one year before his father, and purchased a tract adjoining that of his father, in Butler township. He married Mary McKEE, a daughter of John and Mary (HOGE) McKEE, of the Tuscarora valley, who became the mother of seven children, as follows: John, who served one term as sheriff of Butler county, and died in 1864; Robert, who resided upon the old homestead until 1888, then removed to Butler, and died December 18, 1890; Martha, who died in youth; Thomas, who died at the age of twenty-one; Mary A., who resided in Butler down to her death, July 2, 1890; James, who was drowned in the Ohio river in 1852, while en route to California, and Hugh, a surveyor of Butler county, and afterwards appointed surveyor of Kansas, by President Buchanan, died April 30, 1886. James and his brother Hugh, served in the War of 1812, and both did the duty required of them in common with the other soldiers of the county. The former served as sheriff of the county, also one term in the legislature, and died on October 1, 1832. His wife survived him more than thirty years, and died in 1874, aged eighty-seven.

JOHN McQUISTION was born in Donegal county, Ireland, in 1767, of Scotch-Irish ancestry, came to the United States in 1793, and lived in Philadelphia for three years. In May, 1796, he removed to Butler county, and purchased 500 acres of land in Butler township, from Robert MORRIS, the celebrated financier of the Revolution. He erected the old stone house now in possession of the DOERR heirs. He subsequently bought an adjoining 500 acre tract, which is partially embraced in the BOYD addition to the borough of Butler, better known as Springdale, and a portion of it occupied by the Standard Plate Glass Works. He cleared and improved 300 acres of this tract, built and operated a tannery, and resided here until his death, which occurred May 18, 1841. He married Barbara ARTERS, a native of Ireland, who died on March 5, 1837. They were the parents of the following children: Joseph; Jane, who married Dr. H.C. DeWOLF; William; Mary, who married James BORLAND; John; Margaret, who married James C. SMITH; Nancy, who married William L. BARTLEY; James; Sarah, who married David H. POTTS; Barbara, who married Andrew E. MARSHALL; Elizabeth, who married John L. BARTLEY, and Thomas. Margaret is still living at the age of ninety-three years. Mr. McQUISTION was one of the earliest settlers of this locality, and one of the founders of the United Presbyterian church of Butler. He donated the land for the erection of a church, and was a liberal supporter of that denomination. In politics, he was a stanch Democrat, and one of the influential men of his day in local affairs.

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JAMES McQUISTION, son of John and Barbara McQUISTION, was born upon the homestead farm in Butler township, in 1806, and there grew to maturity. He afterwards settled on 200 acres of his father's land, where his son Robert H., now lives, and died upon this property in 1851. He married Mary HINDMAN, a daughter of John HINDMAN, of Washington township, who became the mother of eight children, viz.: John K., deceased; Jane, wife of Thomas WHITE; Barbara, deceased wife of George McCANDLESS; Margaret, wife of Joseph B. MECHLING; Robert H.; Mary E., widow of John BALPH; Sarah B., and Agnes, wife of Samuel GRAHAM. Mrs. McQUISTION died in January, 1880. Both she and husband were members of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was a Democrat.

ROBERT H. McQUISTION, son of James and Mary McQUISTION, was born on the homestead farm in Butler township, May 6, 1843, and has always resided thereon. In 1864 he enlisted in Company A, Sixth Pennsylvania Artillery, and served until the close of the war. He then resumed his duties upon the farm, and has continued the same up to the present. Politically, Mr. McQUISTION is a Republican, and is an adherent of the United Presbyterian church. He is a member of the G.A.R., and also of the I.O.O.F.

JOHN BURKHART was of German descent, and came to Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, with his parents, about the year 1775. When a boy of ten years of age, he was captured by the Indians near Girty's run, was a prisoner for ten months, and obtained his freedom July 4, 1776, by running the gauntlet. He received a tomahawk wound on that occasion, the scar from which he carried to his grave, and for which he received a pension from the State. He subsequently settled on a large tract of land about three miles from the site of Butler, and was one of the well known hunters of pioneer days. He understood the tanning business and had a tanyard on his farm. Mr. BURKHART married Margaret POWELL, and was the father of twelve children, seven of whom grew to maturity. He was a member of the United Presbyterian church, and died in his ninetieth year, in April, 1855. His wife survived him ten months. Their second son, David, was born in 1801, lived on the old homestead down to his death and then left it to his son John. The latter died November 16, 1893, and left the homestead to his sisters and a sister's children.

ELIJAH BURKHART, third son of John BURKHART, was born upon the old homestead in Butler township, January 12, 1803, grew to manhood on the farm, and learned the carpenter's trade with George WOLFE. He assisted in building some of the first frame houses in Butler. He married Rebecca, daughter of Joseph RICHARDSON, whose ancestors came to this country with Penn. She was of Quaker origin. Her father was a teacher nearly all his life, and removed to Indiana, where he died in 1870, at the age of eighty-two years. After his marriage, Elijah BURKHART settled about a half mile from his father's home, on a part of the same farm. After living on this farm for twenty years, the GILMOREs took out a patent for it and he was compelled to purchase it from them. He was the father of eight children: Maria, who married John EMERICK; Hiram F., who died in infancy; Joseph E., who resided in Kansas; Rebecca M., and Washington F., both of whom died in childhood; Katherine S., wife of Joseph CRIS-[p. 834]WELL, clerk of the courts of Butler county; Baxter C., a member of Company K, Ninth Pennsylvania Reserve, who died at Camp Pierpont, Virginia, February 19, 1862, and Jacob J., who died in infancy.

WILLIAM KARNS (originally spelled, KEARNS) was a native of Ireland, who first settled in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, whence he came to Butler county, in 1795-96. He entered between 800 and 1,000 acres of land in what is now Butler and Summit townships, a portion of the borough of Butler, being now upon a part of this tract. He cleared up two farms, one of 180 acres situated where the Connequenessing bridge crosses that stream on Center avenue, which he gave to his son William, and another of seventy-two acres, which he gave to his son James, and now in possession of his grandsons. Mr. KARNS was one of the leading farmers in that part of the county, and carried on a sort of private banking business among the early settlers. Through going security he suffered much loss, and lost a large part of his real estate. He was a prominent member of the United Presbyterian church, and an elder, in that body for many years. He gave liberally of his means towards the erection of the old United Presbyterian church building of Butler. Mr. KARNS married Annie GOLD, and was the father of the following children; William; James; Patton; Jane, who married Joseph GOLD; Sarah, who married James SWEENEY of Clarion county; Mary, and Margaret, who became the wife of George CROSIER. Mr. KARNS died in 1830; his widow survived him several years.

JAMES KARNS, second son of William KARNS, was born on the homestead in Butler township, March 17, 1816, and after reaching his majority he located on the farm which he received from his father. He learned the cabinet maker's trade, but did not follow that occupation very long. He removed to the borough of Butler, but continued to carry on his farm. He was appointed by the court to assist the sheriff of Butler county, in which capacity he served for seventeen years, and for nearly half a century he was one of the well known auctioneers of the county. In 1855 he was elected county treasurer, and in 1840 he was commissioned a colonel in the State Militia. Mr. KARNS married Abigail, daughter of Samuel R. RICHARDS, one of the contractors who built the Pennsylvania canal. Their family consisted of the following children: James R.; Emma, wife of Albert ROESSING; Mary, wife of Frank WHEATON; Ada, who married Newton MILLER, and after his death John KELLERMAN; William B.; John I.; Eleanor, wife of George R. EATON, and Theodore C. Mr. KARNS died November 19, 1892. His widow resides upon the old homestead.

JAMES R. KARNS, eldest son of James KARNS, was born in the borough of Butler, September 23, 1848, and received a public school and seminary education. After arriving at manhood he removed to Kansas, where he was deputy United States marshal in that State for four years. He was also deputy sheriff of Eldorado county, Kansas, two years, and city marshal of Eldorado City for one year. In March, 1874, he returned to Butler, and was appointed the first county detective of Butler county, in which position he served fourteen months. Since returning to Butler he has followed the business of auctioneer, in connection with the cultivation of his farm. Politically, he is a Republican. Mr. KARNS [p. 835] married Mary A. McCORMICK, and they are the parents of five children, as follows: Blanche; Myrtle; Paul; Raymond, and James.

SAMUEL KELLY was born in Down county, Ireland, December 25, 1800, and emigrated to the United States at the age of eighteen years. He found employment with James George, of Mercer township, Mercer county, Pennsylvania; was later employed in the construction of the Pennsylvania canal, obtaining a few small contracts, but subsequently became one of the prominent contractors after the completion of the Erie section, and took several large contracts on the Johnstown and Blairsville branch of the canal, but eventually met with heavy financial losses. He then retired to a large tract of land he had previously purchased in Slippery Rock townshyip, Butler county, cleared up a farm and lived upon it forty years. In 1865 he purchased 160 acres in Butler township, where he continued to reside until his death, April 1, 1881. Mr. KELLY was married in 1831, to Elizabeth, daughter of Richard McKEE, a native of Antrim county, Ireland, who settled in Muddy creek township, Butler county, in 1831. Her death occurred March 21, 1881, just ten days before her husband passed away. To this marriage were born eleven children: David, of Armstrong county; Jane, wife of F.M. SHIRA; Samuel, a resident of New Castle, Pennsylvania; John C.; Elizabeth, wife of I.J. McCANDLESS, of Butler; Agnes, deceased wife of Perry STEWART; William, and Margaret, both residing in Ohio, and three who died in infancy. Mr. KELLY was a Democrat in politics, and filled the office of justice of the peace and other minor positions in his township. While a resident of Slippery Rock, he was a member of Harmony church, Harrisville, and in later days was connected with Shiloh United Presbyterian church of Jefferson township.

JOHN C. KELLY, third son of Samuel and Elizabeth KELLY, was born upon the homestead farm in Slippery Rock township, Butler county, February 13, 1840, and received a common school education. He learned the carpenter's and millwright's trades, which he followed until 1865, and the next two years he was engaged in tilling his father-in-law's farm in Cranberry township. In 1867 he purchased a farm in Adams township, but after his father's death he removed to Butler township, and purchased 100 acres of the homestead place, upon which he still resides. He also owns a farm of ninety acres in Forward township, and one of seventy acres in Adams township. In 1884 Mr. KELLY was elected county commissioner, and was re-elected in 1887. He was again one of the Democratic candidates in 1893, but was defeated. He is now serving his second term as justice of the peace for Butler township. Since arriving at manhood he has been an unswerving adherent of the Democratic party, and as firm as a rock in his support of its measures and principles. He was a member of the county committee for many years, and has given liberally of his means towards the success of that party. He has been a member of the United Presbyterian church since 1865. Mr. KELLY was married in 1865, to Nancy C., daughter of the late Capt. Alexander GILLISPIE, of Cranberry township, and has six children: Olive J., wife of George McCORMICK; Alexander G.; Minerva, wife of Clinton D. BOYLE, of Butler; Mary I.; Nannie G.R., and Clarence H. Of these, three are teachers: Alexander G., Mary I., and Nannie G.R.

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JOSEPH B. MECHLING, youngest son of Jacob and Jane (THOMPSON) MECHLING, was born in the borough of Butler, February 28, 1838, was educated in the public school, and at Butler Academy, read law with L.Z. MITCHELL, was admitted to the bar in 1863, and practiced his profession for a number of years. In April, 1861, he enlisted in Company H, Thirteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served three months. He then re-enlisted in Company H, Seventy-eighth regiment, was elected first lieutenant, and served in that command two years. Mr. MECHLING was for many years identified with the public schools of Butler, as a teacher and superintendent of the borough schools, and has always been interested in the advancement of education. Politically, he is a Republican, and though he has never sought public office, he has been deeply interested in the successes of his party. Mr. MECHLING resides upon his farm in Butler township, and is recognized as an intelligent, progressive citizen.

GEORGE JACOB SCHAFFNER was born in Wissenburg, Germany, in 1806, son of Nicholas SCHAFFNER. He received a public school education, and in 1831 emigrated to the United States and settled in Butler township, Butler county, Pennsylvania. He was engaged in various occupations in and around Butler, and purchased a small tract of land north of the borough, upon which he lived for some years, and later bought forty acres where John Schaffner now resides. He next moved to Slippery Rock township and lived there five years. He afterwards engaged in coal mining upon the same farm, which business he followed until his death. He was married in his native land, to Mary Ann MARTIN, to which union were born seven children, five of whom grew to maturity: Frances, a sister in the convent of Notre Dame; Samuel; Maria, wife of Frank KOCH of Butler; George, of Butler, and John, a resident of Butler township. Mr. SCHAFFNER died in 1877; his wife died the previous year. They were members of the Catholic church, and in politics, he was originally a Whig and afterwards a Republican

SAMUEL SCHAFFNER, eldest son of Jacob SCHAFFNER, was born in Butler township, Butler county, October 31, 1833. He attended the district school, and throughout his boyhood days assisted his parents on the farm, and afterwards was engaged with his father in operating the coal mine. In 1858 he purchased ten acres of land and opened a new coal mine, which he worked until 1864. In 1862, when Lee threatened to invade Pennsylvania, he went out as fourth sergeant of Company G, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Militia. In 1864 he enlisted in Company D, Sixth Pennsylvania Artillery, and served ten months. Returning to his home he went to Oil City, and engaged in the coal business in Cranberry township, Venango county. One year later he came back to Butler township and resumed coal operations here, which he has continued down to the present. He also cultivates a farm of 170 acres, and is interested in oil producing. He was formerly a Republican, but at the formation of the Greenback party he joined that organization, and was its nominee for the legislature in 1871. Since that time he has been independent in politics, and is now a Populist. In 1870 he was elected justice of the peace, filled that office five years, and has also been township auditor. In religious belief, he is a Catholic, and is a member of St. Paul's congregation of Butler. Mr. SCHAFFNER was married June 26, 1858, to [p. 837] Josephine, a daughter of Anthony and Barbara HINCHBERGER. She died February 2, 1893, being the mother of the following children: Mary C., deceased; Josie, wife of Joseph WULLER; George A., who married Mary SULLIVAN, and who has three children, Josie, Maria and Jacob; Jacob; Christopher; Samuel, who married Laura VINROE; Frank; Norbert, deceased; Edward, and Herbert.

EBERHART FAMILY.-- Paul EBERHART, a native of Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, and a descendant of the Eberharts of Germany, removed to Westmoreland county in 1773. His son Christian, born in Lehigh county, March 9, 1772, married Mary Ann SNYDER, and was the progenitor of the Eberhart family of Butler county. Joseph EBERHART, born in Westmoreland county, March 19, 1800, was the third son of Christian EBERHART. At the age of twenty-one he married Catherine KISTLER. He was a tailor by trade, and followed his trade until 1835, when he removed to Mercer county, Pennsylvania, subsequently to Millerstown, Butler county, in 1845 to Armstrong county, and in 1854 to Douglass county, Kansas, where he died at the age of eighty-two years. His family consisted of fifteen children, as follows: Nancy Ann, who first married Henry HEMPHILL, and for her second husband William BYERLY; Obadiah; Priscilla, who married Andrew BARNHART; John; Joseph; Henry S.; Sarah C., who married Thomas PUGH; Samuel; Marie E., who married John GIMLET; Susannah E., who married Calvin MILLARD; Margaret R., who married Charles URICK; David H.; Noah A.; Naomi M.; Lewis J., and Andrew.

JOHN EBERHART, second son of Joseph EBERHART, was born in Mercer county; Pennsylvania, August 16, 1827. At the age of seventeen he came with his parents to Millerstown, where he learned the carpenter's trade. In 1857 he purchased a farm of seventy acres in Fairview township, Butler county, which he cleared and improved, and here he resided, engaged in farming, down to his death, August 11, 1885. He married Catherine, daughter of Rudolph BARNHART, of Fairview township, and their family were as follows: Simon J., deceased; Andrew O.; Susannah, and Henry C.F., both of whom are dead; Lewis D.A., who resides near Millerstown; Johnathan, who resides on the old homestead; Sarah P., and Permelia, both of whom are dead. Mr. EBERHART was a prominent member of the Reformed church, in which he filled the offices of deacon and elder. Some good oil wells were drilled upon his farm, which placed him in very comfortable circumstances. His widow is living upon the old homestead.

ANDREW O. EBERHART, second son of John and Catherine EBERHART, was born in Fairview township, Butler county, December 26, 1851, and was educated in the district school. He remained with his parents until his majority, and then purchased a small piece of land in Fairview township, which proved to be oil producing. He afterwards sold this, and purchased the YETTER farm of 170 acres in Butler township, and later the William BRYSON farm of 100 acres. He rebuilt the Bryson residence, where he has since resided, engaged in farming and oil producing. Mr. EBERHART was married March 11, 1873, to Mary E., daughter of Philip BARNHART, of Millerstown, to whom have been born the following children: John C., and Joseph, both deceased; Tessa T.; Jeremiah; Henry H., and Etta E. Politically, he is a Republican, is now serving his fourth consecutive term as constable, and is one of the school directors of his township. He takes an active interest [p. 838] in the progress of the public schools, and has been a director of St. Paul's Orphan Home for fifteen years. In 1894 he was a candidate for jury commissioner, and with eight candidates in the field he was second highest on the ticket, coming within a few votes of election. For the past seventeen years he has been an elder in the Reformed church, and donated the land upon which was erected St. John's Reformed church and parsonage, to which purpose he gave liberally of his means. He is active in public and political matters, and is a member of the R.A., P.of H., the Jr. O.U.A.M., and Connoquenessing Lodge, I.O.O.F.

PETER BAUER was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, in 1803, and emigrated with his wife and three children to Maryland, settling close to the Pennsylvania line. In 1846 he came to Jefferson township, Butler county, purchased a farm, and resided thereon down to his death, in 1867. His wife's maiden name was Anna Margaret DEER, and their children are as follows: Catherine, who maarried Charles KRUMPE; William; Conrad; Henry; George; Benjamin; Philip, and Elizabeth, who became the wife of William LEITHOLD. Mrs. BAUER died in 1888. Both she and husband were members of St. Mark's Lutheran church of Butler, in which organization he filled the office of deacon. Politically, he was a Democrat.

GEORGE BAUER was born in Maryland, in 1838, and is the fourth son of Peter and Anna Margaret Bauer. He came to Jefferson township, Butler county, with his parents, was reared on the homestead farm, and received his education in the public schools. He learned the machinist's trade, and engaged in the manufacture of agricultural implements at Butler under the firm name of Bauer Brothers, which the firm carried on for fifteen years. In 1872 he sold his interest and purchased his present homestead of seventy-six acres in Butler township, upon which he has since lived. Mr. BAUER was married in 1863, to Catherine, daughter of Michael SMITH. She died June 20, 1893. They are the parents of eight children: Margaret, wife of Howard McCANDLESS; Charles; Edward; Gussie; Maud, wife of Samuel McKNIGHT; William; Barbara, and Leonard. In 1862 Mr. BAUER enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served nine months. He was in the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, and was slightly wounded in the latter engagement.

WILLIAM BARNHART, son of Jacob BARNHART who settled in Butler county in 1796, was born on the original homestead in Donegal township, and grew to manhood under the parental roof. He married Mary A. DAUBENSPECK, by which union they were the parents of the following children: Solomon; Ann, wife of Frank HAYS; David George, deceased; Gabriel; Andrew W., and Kamerer, deceased. Mr. BARNHART died about 1845. His widow was twice married afterwards, and died in Armstrong county. Her second husband was Andrew MAY and her third David BARNHART. The subject of this sketch was a farmer all his life, and resided at his death in Fairview township, where all of his children were born.

ANDREW W. BARNHART was born on the homestead in Fairview township, Butler county, March 28, 1839, and is a son of William and Mary A. BARNHART. The early death of his father prevented Andrew W. from receiving the [p. 839] advantages the common schools afforded, and he grew to manhood among strangers. After reaching his majority, he purchased a farm in Concord township, Butler county, upon which he resided until the second year of the war. On May 13, 1862, he enlisted in Company G., Thirteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and at the battle of Fredericksburg, December 13, 1862, he received two gun-shot wounds in the right leg and one in the left, and was transferred from the field hospital to Lincoln Hospital, Washington, D.C. He was discharged from the service June 11, 1863, and returned to his farm. One year afterwards he went to the Venango county oil fields, where he worked until 1865. He then removed to Sugar Creek township, Armstrong county, where he followed farming until 1886, in which year he purchased his present farm of 130 acres in Butler township, Butler county, upon which he has since resided, engaged in farming and oil producing. Mr. BARNHART married Melinda, daughter of William MURTLAND, of Fairview township. She died July 1, 1891, the mother of the following children: Clare E., wife of Edward E. BRYER; Minnie A.; Eva A.; Loretta; William L., and Lena T., the last two of whom are dead. Politically, Mr. BARNHART is a Republican, is a member of A.G. Reed Post, Number 105, G.A.R., and of St. John's Reformed church, of Butler township.

CASPER HARTUNG was born in Saxe-Weimer, Prussia, in 1806, and was a weaver. In 1842 he came to the United States, accompanied by his father, Adam, his mother and two brothers, Henry and Conrad, and one sister. Henry and Conrad enlisted at Pittsburg for the Mexican war, and served throughout that struggle. Both purchased farms in Winfield township, Butler county, and at the breaking out of the Rebellion, Henry went into the army, and was killed at the battle of the Wilderness. Conrad removed to Kansas where he now resides. Casper and his father settled in Winfield township, Butler county, where they purchased a small tract of land, and subsequently a farm of 136 acres in the same township, which they cleared and improved. Casper HARTUNG married Catherine AUBBEL, a native of Germany, which union was blessed with seven children, four of whom grew to maturity, as follows: Lizzie, deceased wife of Robert CLARK; Katie, wife of Martin WECKERLE, of Virginia; John, and Henry, deceased. Mr. HARTUNG was a Lutheran in religious faith, and a Democrat in politics. Both he and wife resided in Butler county until their death.

JOHN HARTUNG, only living son of Casper HARTUNG, was born in Germany, November 6, 1836, and was reared on his father's farm in Winfield township, Butler county. In 1870 he purchased a farm in Jefferson township, where he remained five years, then removed to Ohio, but in 1882 he returned to Butler county and purchased a farm two miles west of Butler, containing eighty acres. Here he lived until 1889, when he purchased a site of four acres near Butler, erected his present residence and retired from active business. Mr. HARTUNG married Maggie, daughter of Adam SCHRUMP, of Winfield township, and has one daughter, Anna L., wife of Christian LEICHNER, of St. Joe, Butler county. He is a member of the Lutheran church, and in politics, he is a Democrat. In 1864 he enlisted in Company L, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and served in the battles of Fisher's Hill and Winchester. On December 14, 1864, while on scouting duty, his command was attacked by the rebels, and he was struck on the head with a [p. 840] revolver, taken prisoner and confined in Libby prison three months. He served in the army one year, and was then honorably discharged.

WILLIAM NESBIT was born at Harmony, Butler county, Pennsylvania, May 28, 1805, and was a son of Thomas NESBIT, a native of Ireland, who settled at Harmony about 1797. William received a limited education in the pioneer subscription schools, learned the blacksmith's trade, and followed that occupation for twenty years. He inherited a farm in Cranberry township, upon which he resided until his death, December 27, 1891. He married Emma CROFT, of Cranberry township, to which union were born ten children, as follows: Mary J., deceased wife of David G. MARSHALL, of Adams township; John, deceased; Lenora; Nancy, deceased; Ida, wife of Milton J. COVERT, of Cranberry township; Walter, deceased; Martha, deceased; William R.; Joseph L., who resides on the old homestead, and Nettie A., wife of Charles FOWLER, of Allegheny county. Mr. NESBIT and wife were members of the Presbyterian church. The latter died, March 29, 1893.

WILLIAM R. NESBIT, son of William and Emma NESBIT, was born in Cranberry township, Butler county, July 14, 1856, and received a common school education. He has always lived upon a farm, and in November, 1891, he purchased his present homestead in Butler township, from George HALEY. Mr. NESBIT was married December 31, 1878, to Laura D. WHITE, daughter of Robert WHITE, now a resident of Butler, but formerly of Evans City. Three children are the fruits of this union: Edith P.; Ethel M., and Dean A. Mr. NESBIT and wife are members of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, he is a Republican.

JOHN RENNO was born in Alsace-Lorraine, France, November 15, 1800, was reared in his native land, and followed the vocation of a coal miner. He immigrated to the United States in 1832, came to Butler the following year, and subsequently settled in Butler township, where he resided until his death, February 19, 1853. His wife survived him until April 21, 1885. Her maiden name was Margaret EMMINGER, and she was a resident of Donegal township at the time of her marriage to Mr. RENNO, in May, 1836. She was the daughter of Michael EMMINGER, a veteran of the War of 1812. They became the parents of nine children, as follows: Regina, who married Edward ELBEL; Mary, deceased wife of Harry BURDETTE; Rebecca, who married Edward ELBEL; Mary, deceased wife of Harry BURDETTE; Rebecca, who married John BRINK; Frederick M.; John; Elizabeth, wife of William PARKE; Rose C., wife of J.R. GOODRICH; Adam, and George J. The parents were members of the Lutheran church, and in politics, Mr. RENNO was a Democrat.

JOHN YOUNG was born in Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, in 1826, and was reared and educated in his native county. He learned the carpenter's trade, and in 1858 he came to Butler county and settled in Butler township, where he purchased a part of the old MANGEL farm. He afterwards purchased the McNAIR farm of 122 acres, but traded it for 108 acres of the old BORLAND property, upon which he now resides. In 1850 he married Marys B., daughter of Thomas BURTON of Lawrence county, to whom have been born ten children, nine of whom grew to maturity: Thomas B.; William G.; Susan J., wife of A.M. HAUK of Wampum; Jacob S.; James B.; Martha E., wife of A.B. McCANDLESS, of Butler township; John P.; Samuel W., and Mary H., wife of George GRAHAM, [p. 841] of Clarion county. Mr. YOUNG and wife are members of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he is a Republican.

CAPT. ABRAHAM BRINKER was one of the pioneer tavern keepers of Butler, where he erected a log building on the site of the Citizen office in 1804. He was a native of Northampton county, Pennsylvania, whence he removed to Westmoreland county, and later to Butler. He carried on the Mansion House until 1809, and then sold out to Jacob MECHLING, who conducted this well remembered hostelry for many years. After disposing of his tavern, Captain BRINKER purchased a tract of land on Bonny Brook, in what is now Summit township, and erected the old stone mill yet standing, about three miles northeast of Butler, at the mouth of Brinker's run, named in his honor. Here he operated a grist mill, a carding mill and a distillery, in connection with a large farm. He was one of the prominent men of pioneer days, and a man of considerable enterprise and public spirit. He commanded a company under Col. John PURVIANCE at Erie in the War of 1812, composed of the hardy sons of Butler county. He served as county commissioner two terms, was also a justice of the peace, and filled several of the local offices during his residence on Bonny Brook. Captain BRINKER married Louisa MOSER, and their children were as follows: Jacob, a well remembered hotel keeper of Butler; John; Henry; Mrs. Catherine McCANDLESS; Mrs. Susan HENRY; Mrs. Polly HENRY; Mrs. Eliza PROSSER; Mrs. Louisa McGLAUGHLIN; Mrs. Sarah ZIEGLER, and Mrs. Amy M. RICHEY, all of whom are dead. Captain BRINKER died at his home on Bonny Brook in 1850. His wife survived his death some years, and died in Butler at the home of her son-in-law, Captain ZIEGLER. Many of their descendants are still residents of the county and among its worthy citizens.

JAMES MITCHELL, SR., was one of the pioneers of Butler county, coming from Ireland with two brothers to Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, whence, in 1796, he removed to Butler county and settled in what is now Summit township. He cleared up a farm upon which he resided until his death, in 1844. He married a Miss McGAHEY and they were the parents of six children: James, Samuel and Alexander, all deceased; John; Jane, who married John JAMISON, and Margaret, deceased wife of I. SEAMAN. Mr. MITCHELL was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was one of the leading pioneers of this locality until his death.

JUDGE JAMES MITCHELL, eldest son of James MITCHELL, Sr., was born upon the homestead in this county and spent his younger days in teaching school. In 1851 he was elected county commissioner, and subsequently associate judge of Butler county. He took a deep interest in educational matters and filled the office of school director nearly all his life. Politically, he was a stanch Whig, and on the formation of the Republican party he joined that organization and for many years was one of its leading members. In religious faith, he was a Presbyterian, and filled the office of elder for many years. He was twice married, his first wife being Sarah MARKS, who died in 1850, leaving five children: Alexander; Harvey J.; Agnes, wife of J.D. JACKSON; James B., and Mary, deceased. He married for his second wife Jane S. HUNT, and died in October, 1891. Judge MITCHELL was one of the representative citizens of his native county, and throughout his long and userful life was foremost in every worthy cause.

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WILLIAM LINDSEY was born in Down county, Ireland, June 24, 1800, a son of Moses and Jane (MEEK) LINDSEY. He came to Pennsylvania about 1834, and found employment in a planing mill in Allegheny for two years, and later engaged in farming in North Fayette township, Allegheny county, where he resided for twelve years. In 1849 he purchased a farm of 212 acres in Summit township, Butler county, upon which he settled the following year. He subsequently increased his farm to 300 acres, cleared the greater part of it, and erected all of the buildings. His wife was Sarah ALEXANDER, a daughter of Joshua ALEXANDER, of Down county, Ireland, who bore him ten children, viz.: Mary, wife of William McCRACKEN; Thomas; Moses; Joseph; William; Susan; Jane; Sarah; Elizabeth, and Margaret. Mr. LINDSEY was a member of the Protestant Episcopal church, and resided in Summit township for thirty-six years. He died November 1, 1885, in the eighty-sixth year of his age.

THOMAS LINDSEY, eldest son of William and Sarah LINDSEY, was born in Down county, Ireland, January 2, 1825, and came with his parents to Allegheny, Pennsylvania, in 1834. He was educated in the common schools, and from 1850 to 1868 was a traveling salesman for the dry goods and notion house of Daniel McCONVILLE, of Steubenville, Ohio. Since the latter year he has resided on the old homestead in Summit township, and is one of the prominent and enterprising citizens of the community. He is a member of St. Peter's Protestant Episcopal church, of Butler, and in politics, is an adherent of the Democratic party.

MICHAEL EMRICK, a native of Pennsylvania, of German ancestry, came from Northumberland county to Butler county, with his wife, Elizabeth, four sons and two daughters, in 1813. He located near Saxonburg, where he followed the wheelwright's trade, but in later life engaged in the manufacture of baskets. He died at Butler in 1852. His children were as follows: Elizabeth, wife of Samuel JONES; Andrew; Jacob; John; William; Catherine, wife of John HICKS, and Michael.

ANDREW EMRICK, eldest son of Michael and Elizabeth EMRICK, was born in Northumberland county in 1803, and came with his parents to this county when about ten years old. He was one of the founders of Saxonburg, and broke the first ground and erected the first dwelling on the site of that village. He cleared and improved two farms near Saxonburg, and a third in Clearfield township. In 1851 he purchased a farm in Summit township, resided there until 1856, then sold out and removed to Penn township, where he lived until 1885. In that year he removed to Summit, and made his home with his son John until his death, May 15, 1885. His wife was Catherine BURTNER, a daughter of John BURTNER, a pioneer of Buffalo township. Ten children were born to this union, eight of whom grew to maturity, viz.: Michael; Christina, wife of John E. GALLAGHER; John; Elizabeth, wife of George W. FAIR; Barbara, wife of Franklin FISHER; Andrew B.; Maria, wife of Michael FAIR, and Daniel. Mr. EMRICK was a man of the highest integrity, and a respected and worthy citizen. He held numerous public offices, the duties of which he performed faithfully and well. He was an adherent of the Republican party, and in religious faith, was a member of the Lutheran church.

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JOHN EMRICK, second son of Andrew and Catherine EMRICK, was born in Clearfield township, Butler county, December 26, 1831. He was reared in his native county, was educated in the common schools, and began his career as a farmer in 1855, working on his father's farm in Penn township, until 1861. In that year he removed to his present homestead in Summit township, upon which he has since erected all of the buildings and improvements, and brought his land to a high state of cultivation. In November, 1855, he married Maria Antoinette BURKHART, a daughter of Elijah and Rebecca (RICHARDSON) BURKHART, and grand daughter of John BURKHART, one of the first settlers of Butler township. Mrs. EMRICK's maternal ancestors came to America with Penn. She is the mother of eight children, viz.: Daniel B.; William J.; Asa W.; Rebecca C., wife of Augustus M. SWARTZ; Albert F.; Barbara A.; Samuel M., and Mary E., wife of Samuel G. HUGHES. Mr. EMRICK was a member of Company F, One Hundred and Seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, from September 19, 1864, to June 20, 1865, when he was honorably discharged from the service, at Whitehall, Bucks county, Pennsylvania. He participated in the battles of Gravelly Run, White Oak Roads, and other engagements down to the surrender of Lee. Mr. EMERICK is a member of the Jefferson Summit Presbyterian church, and is connected with A.G. Reed Post, G.A.R., of Butler. Politically, he is an ardent Republican.

SIMON P. YOUNG was born in Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, February 17, 1823, son of Henry YOUNG, who came to Butler county with his wife and family in 1829, and settled in Butler township. The family consisted of the following children: Polly; Sarah; Elizabeth; Anna; John; Simon P.; Amos; William H.; Catherine C.; Rebecca S., and George. The father died in 1842. The subject of this sketch was reared in Butler township and learned the tanner's trade, which he followed in connection with farming. In 1846 he married Eliza J. Barrickman, a daughter of Peter Barrickman, of Butler township. Nine children were born to this union, as follows: Mary P., wife of R.M. FORSYTHE; Titus S.; Margaret G., and Permilla, both deceased; Henry B.; Elmer E.; William L.; Barton E., and Howard G., deceased. In 1855 Mr. YOUNG purchased his present homestead of 180 acres in Summit township, and has since devoted his attention to farming. His wife died May 3, 1893. She was a member of the Presbyterian church, to which denomination he also belongs. In politics, he has always been a Republican. He is a charter member of Connoquenessing Lodge, I.O.O.F., and during the war was enrolling clerk for Summit township.

WILLIAM BYERS was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, March 8, 1808, and was reared and educated in his native county. In 1837 he was married to Rebecca McCURDY, a daughter of James McCURDY, of Summit township, Butler county, and in 1838 he settled upon a farm in that township, where he resided until his death, in 1877. His wife died in 1854. They were the parents of eight children, as follows: Margaret J., wife of D.M. RONEY; Rachel M., wife of Leander WISE; Thomas S., and James M., both of whom died at Florence, South Carolina, while prisoners of war, being members of Company E, One Hundred and Third Pennsylvania Volunteers; Matilda A., wife of W.W. DINSMORE; [p. 844] William S., deceased; John E., and Rebecca C., deceased. Mr. BYERS and wife were members of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was a Republican.

NICHOLAS RIOTT, a native of Bavaria, Germany, immigrated to Baltimore, Maryland, in 1825. In 1830 he purchased a farm of 316 acres of land in what is now Summit township, Butler county, cleared and improved it, and died in his eighty-third year. He married Eva BARD, and was the father of three sons, viz.: Francis; Nicholas, and Jacob. They succeeded to the old homestead, which was equally divided between them. Mr. RIOTT and family were members of the Catholic church, and among the first Germans of that faith who settled in Summit township.

FRANCIS RIOTT, eldest son of Nicholas and Eva RIOTT, was born in Bavaria, Germany, April 3, 1814, came to America with his parents in 1825, and five years afterwards located in Summit township, Butler county. At his father's death he succeeded to one-third of the original tract, containing 111 acres, all of which he cleared and improved, and upon which he still resides. He subsequently added to his farm, until it now aggregated 220 acres, the larger portion of which is under a high state of cultivation. In July, 1837, Mr. RIOTT married Elizabeth SMITH, a daughter of John and Eva (RICHARD) SMITH, of Oakland township. To this union have been born ten children, as follows: Nicholas; Jacob; Mary, wife of John LEECH; Francis; Margaret; Barbara, wife of John NULETT; George; Catherine, wife of John WEYLAND; Joseph, and Elizabeth. Mr. RIOTT and family are members of St. Mary's Catholic church, at Herman, and in politics, he is a Democrat. He has been prominent in both church and public affairs, has held nearly every office in the township, and has served five terms as justice of the peace. He is one of the substantial and wealthy citizens of the community.

JOHN OESTERLING, a native of Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, came to Pennsylvania in 1831, and settled in Summit township, Butler county, near Herman station. Five years afterwards he removed to the farm now owned and occupied by his sons, Adam and Peter, on which he made many improvements, residing there down to his death, in March, 1864, in the sixty-seventh year of his age. He was married in his native land to Elizabeth RIPPER, who became the mother of fourteen children, eight of whom grew to maturity, viz.: John; Catherine, wife of Adam SCHENCK; Elizabeth, wife of William VOGELEY; Leonard; Anne E., wife of George FREDERICK; Peter; Adam, and Margaret, wife of Adam FREDERICK. Mr. OESTERLING was a member of the German Lutheran church of Butler.

LEONARD OESTERLING, son of John and Elizabeth OESTERLING, was born in Bremen, Germany, April 18, 1831. His parents immigrated to Butler county the same year, and he was reared to manhood in Summit township. In 1852 he engaged in farming for himself, in Summit township, and the following year removed to Armstrong county, where he found employment in the rolling mills at Brady's Bend, until 1872. In the latter year he returned to Summit township and located on a farm of 200 acres which he still occupies. Here he has made nearly all the improvements in buildings, etc., and has brought the land to a high state of cultivation. On February 15, 1852, Mr. OESTERLING married Margaret FLOHR, a native of Germany. She is the mother of twelve children, seven of [p. 845] whom grew to maturity, viz.: John; Mary, wife of William KELLERMAN; Leonard; Maggie, wife of Morgan DAVIS; William, and Lewis. Mr. OESTERLING and wife are members of the Germany Lutheran church, of Butler, and in politics, he is a Republican.

PETER OESTERLING, son of John and Elizabeth OESTERLING, was born in Summit township, Butler county, October 9, 1835, and was reared on the family homestead, where his parents settled in 1836. He received a limited education in the common schools, and has always followed farming as a vocation. During the Rebellion he was drafted twice. The first time he sent a substitute, but the next time he went into the army as a member of Company B., One Hundred and Seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers. He participated in the battles of Hatcher's Run, and Weldon Railroad, and after nine months' service was honorably discharged, in June, 1865. He was married August 19, 1858 to Catherine SHOUP, a daughter of Jacob and Catherine (GINTER) SHOUP, of Oakland township, and has ten children, as follows: Elizabeth, wife of John BROWN; Kate, wife of James SPENCER; Mary, wife of Milton SHANER; Peter; James; Bertha, wife of Thomas HITE; George; Laura; Amelia, and Florence Edith. Mr. OESTERLING and family are connected with the German Lutheran church, of Butler. He is a stanch Democrat, and is one of the prominent farmers of his native township.

MATTHIAS BLEICHNER was born in Alsace-Lorraine, France, January 2, 1798, a son of Matthias BLEICHNER, who lived and died in his native land. In 1831 he immigrated to Pennsylvania, and settled in Summit township, Butler county, on the farm now owned by his son Jacob. He cleared and improved this property, and resided upon it down to his death, in 1884, in the eighty-seventh year of his age. He was married in his native land to Catherine ENGELMAN, a native of Alsace-Lorraine, who bore him a family of six children, viz.: Laurence; Nicholas; Dorothea, wife of Nicholas HINCHBERGER; George; Jacob, and Eva, wife of Laurence STRUCKENS. Mr. BLEICHNER was a member of the Catholic church, and one of the founders of St. Mary's congregation, at Herman station.

JACOB BLEICHNER, youngest son of Matthias and Catherine BLEICHNER, was born on the old homestead in Summit township, February 21, 1836, and received his education in the public schools. He was reared on the farm, and was engaged in mining coal for public work some five years, but farming has been his principal occupation throughout his life. He has owned the old homestead since 1864, and has resided upon it permanently since that time. On September 29, 1857, he married Mary MILLER, a daughter of Joseph and Ann (RITTER) MILLER, of Summit township. Eleven children have been born to this union, named as follows: Mary, wife of Headley MORRIS; Clara, wife of George SMITH; Joseph; James; John; William; Elizabeth, wife of William GUEST; Tillie; Louisa; Andrew, and Annie. Mr. BLEICHNER and family are members of St. Mary's Catholic church. Politically, he is a Democrat, has held every office in the gift of his township with the exception of justice of the peace, and has been a school director for twenty-one years. He is one of the substantial and progressive citizens of the community.

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JACOB EICHENLAUB, a native of Weissenburg, France, immigrated to the United States, with his wife, three sons and two daughters, in 1831, and the following year settled in what is now Summit township, Butler county, Pennsylvania, on lands still owned by his descendants. Here he spent the remaining years of his life. His children were as follows: Francis; William; Michael; Catherine, who married Matthias HEIL, and Barbara, who married Joseph REIMAN. Mr. EICHENLAUB and family were members of the Catholic church, and among the first German settlers of Summit township.

FRANCIS EICHENLAUB, eldest son of Jacob EICHENLAUB, was born in France, in 1801, and came with his parents to Butler county. He cleared and improved the farm in Summit township now owned by his son William, who assisted him in the work, and died there in 1877, in the seventy-seventh year of his age. He married Margaret SCHANNEMAN, and their children were as follows: William; Barbara, wife of Martin PFIESTER; Mary, wife of Joseph SCHILLINGER; Sophia, wife of Gabriel GIRARD; Matthias, and Agnes, wife of Matthias HIRSCH. Mr. EICHENLAUB was a member of St. Mary's Catholic church, at Herman, and one of the founders of that congregation.

WILLIAM EICHENLAUB, eldest son of Francis and Margaret EICHENLAUB, was born in Summit township, Butler county, September 8, 1834, and was reared on the old homestead, which he now owns and resides upon. In early manhood he was engaged in teaming and mining at Brady's Bend and Pittsburg, but has been a permanent resident of Summit township, since 1868. On April 27, 1858, he married Mary A. SCHELL, a daughter of Bernard and Mary A. (SWICK) SCHELL, of Summit township, and has four surviving children, viz.: Joseph F.; Peter; Willliam J., and Florian H. Mr. EICHENLAUB and family are members of St. Mary's Catholic church, at Herman, in which congregation he has served as trustee for several years.

JOHN SPOHN was born in Alsace, France, March 22, 1814, a son of Martin and Margaret (BLEICHNER) SPOHN. He was reared in his native land, received a common school education, and immigrated to the United States in 1830. Some three years later he settled in what is now Summit township, Butler county, upon the farm where he still resides, which he has cleared and improved. He earned most of the money to pay for his land by working on the canal, and has always been one of the most industrious men of his township. Mr. SPOHN was twice married, his first wife being Mary ENTREINER, who died without issue. His second wife was Eva HOFFMAN, a daughter of Michael and Louisa (DOLL) HOFFMAN, of Summit township. They are the parents of nine children, who grew to maturity, viz.: Philip; Catherine; Mary, wife of Adam NEINHAUSER; John; Anna J., wife of Peter SNYDER; J. Joseph; Nicholas; Magdalena, wife of Edward NINLIST, and Eva, wife of John VOLTZ. Mr. SPOHN is the oldest German resident of Summit township, and is one of the founders of St. Mary's Catholic church, at Hermon station, to which demonination the family belongs. In politics, he is independent, always casting his vote for those whom he regards best fitted for the office.

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PETER SCHNUR was born in Prussia, Germany, January 20, 1824, a son of George and Anna (KUPPLE) SCHNUR, who came to the United States in 1836, and settled in Louisville, Kentucky. His mother died soon after their arrival, and his father removed to Pittsburg, where for a time he was employed at his trade of stonemason. He also worked in Buffalo, New York, and for twenty years was employed in the Schonenberger rolling mills, at Pittsburg. He died at the age of sixty-six, leaving three children, viz.: Catherin, wife of Nicholas LEECH; Peter, and John. The subject of this sketch was reared in Pittsburg, and was educated in the parochial and public schools of that city. He afterwards entered the rolling mills of Mr. SCHONENBERGER, where he was employed for ten years, and later worked on a farm for four years. He was subsequently engaged in gardening near Pittsburg, which business he followed for seventeen years. In 1876 he removed to Summit township, Butler county, and settled upon a farm which he had purchased in 1870. Here he has since resided, devoting his attention to agriculture. Oil has been found on his farm, and two wells are now producing on an average of eight barrels per day. Mr. SCHNUR married Elizabeth FRY, of Pittsburg, to whom have been born fifteen children. Six sons and one daughter survive, viz.: George W.; Peter J.; Charles F.; Frank J.; David A.; Gertrude M., and Lawrence A. The family are members of St. Mary's Catholic church, and in politics, Mr. SCHNUR is a Democrat.

JOSEPH HEINZER was born in Canton of Schwytz, Switzerland, October 7, 1825, and is a son of Francis and Mary A. (WIEGET) HEINZER. He was reared and educated in his native land, and came to the United States in 1847. He first located in Ohio, removing to Pittsburg the following year, where for the succeeding seven years he was engaged in the dairy business, the last two years for himself. In 1853 he came to Butler county, and settled in Summit township, and in 1868 located on the farm where he now lives. He cleared a good share of the land himself, and has made all of the improvements, in buildings, etc. On November 17, 1851, he married Anna Mary SAILER, a daughter of Andrew and Anna (KESSELMEYER) SAILER, of Bavaria, Germany. Twelve children blessed this union, ten of whom grew to maturity, viz.: Theresa, wife of Stephen MICHEL; Mary, wife of Peter LEINENBACH; Barbara, wife of John SPOHN; Joseph; Elizabeth; Anna C.; Magdelena, wife of Peter GREEN; Frank; Andrew, and Martin. Mr. HEINZER is one of the leading and enterprising farmers of Summit township. He and his family are members of the Catholic church, and in politics, he is an ardent Democrat.

M.B. DITTMER was born in Bavaria, Germany, May 12, 1856, a son of Benedict and Margaret (SNYDER) DITTMER. He was reared and educated in his native country, and there learned the tailor's trade. In 1873 he immigrated to Pennsylvania, and located in Butler county, working at his trade in various towns until 1882. In that year he embarked in merchandising at Herman station, where he has continued to carry on business successfully down to the present. In August, 1881, he married Catherine BAYER, a daughter of Frank and Mary (SCHROZENSTALER) BAYER, of Armstrong county, and has six children, viz.: Frank; Albert; Ludwig; Katie; Margaret, and Anna Regine. Since 1887 Mr. DITTMER has been passenger and express agent at Herman station, and in June, 1894, he [p. 848] was appointed postmaster at Herman, and fills his numerous positions with general satisfaction to the public. He and his family are members of St. Mary's Catholic church. Politically, he is a stanch Democrat, and has filled the office of township auditor for six years, and overseer of the poor for two years. He is one of the popular and enterprising citizens of the community.

JOHN KRADEL, a native of Prussia, Germany, and a son of George and Barbar (SHAFFER) KRADEL, immigrated to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1830, and found employment in a rolling mill in that city for four years. In 1834 he removed to Harmony, Butler county, where he was engaged in farming until 1843. In the latter year he purchased the farm in Summit township now owned and occupied by his son Adam. He and his sons cleared and improved this property, upon which he died in 1859, at the age of fifty-five years. He married Dora NICHOLAS, a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth NICHOLAS, of Wurtemberg, Germany, who still survives at the age of eighty-four. Eight children were born to this union, as follows: Margaret, deceased wife of Jacob KECK; Anna, wife of Jacob HOLSTEIN; John; Adam; Eliza, wife of Charles WELFEL; Elizabeth, deceased wife of Adam FREDERICK; Christina, wife of Adam FREDERICK, and Barbara, wife of Henry FARNER. Mr. KRADEL was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran church, of Butler.

ADAM KRADEL, son of John and Dora KRADEL, was born at Harmony, Butler county, November 30, 1839, and was reared on the homestead in Summit township, which he assisted his father to clear and improve. Since the homestead came into his possession, he has made nearly all of the present improvements, including the buildings, etc. On May 7, 1863, he married Christina DAMBACHER, a daughter of Nicholas and Barbara (HOCK) DAMBACHER, of Butler township. Nine children have been born to this union, viz.: Dora, wife of John MILLER; Christina, wife of John SCHENCK; Emma, wife of Lewis HAROLD; John; Leonard; Anna; Kate; Minnie S., and M. Gertrude. Mr. KRADEL and family are members of St. Mark's Lutheran church, of Butler, and in politics, he is independent.

FREDERICK BAUER, SR., a native of Saxony, Germany, immigrated to Pennsylvania in 1837, and settled near Saxonburg, Butler county, where he cleared and improved a farm, erected a grist mill, and resided down to his death, which occurred in 1853. His wife, Christina MYERS, bore him a family of nine children who grew to maturity, as follows: Mena, deceased wife of John KNOCH; George L.; Augusta, wife of John KNOCH; Sophie, wife of Peter TUSCHERER; Rose A., wife of Henry HELLER; Frederick; August; Charles, and Caroline, wife of Henry BAUMAN. Mr. BAUER was a member of the German Lutheran church, and in politics, an adherent of the Democratic party.

FREDERICK BAUER, son of Frederick and Christina BAUER, was born in Saxony, Germany, February 18, 1831, and came to Butler county with his parents when about six years of age. He was reared in this county, received a limited education in the public schools, and continued to work upon the homestead until 1863. He lived in Jefferson township until 1867, and then removed to his present farm in Summit township, a good share of which he has cleared and improved. On January 17, 1856, he married Hannah KRUMPE, a daughter of Christopher KRUMPE, of Jefferson township, and has ten living children, viz.: Charles; [p. 849]William; Frederick; Albert; Edward; Emma, wife of William SLOAN; Caroline, wife of Henry BACHMAN; Amelia; George, and Andrew. Mr. BAUER and wife are members of the German Lutheran church, of Butler. He is a stanch Democrat, and is recognized as one of the substantial and progressive farmers of the township.

PATRICK McBRIDE, a native of Donegal county, Ireland, was one of the pioneers of Clearfield township, Butler county, where he settled in 1798. He built his cabin in the midst of an unbroken forest, upon a tract of 400 acres of land which he had purchased, lying a short distance east of the site of Coylesville. For the first few years his most numerous neighbors were the wild animals that roamed at will, and the first year he lived on the product of a small patch of corn and the game killed with his trusty rifle. For making the settlement he received 100 acres of the tract from Archie McCALL, the agent for the lands in that section. Mr. McBRIDE was married in Ireland to Mary DUGAN, who came with him to his new home in the wilderness. They were the parents of the following children: Nancy, who married Michael McGINLEY; Bridget, who married William SPENCER; Cornelius; Enos, who died while serving in the Union army; Francis; Catherine, who married John SWAIN; Sallie, who married Daniel CONEVERY, and Mary, who married Joseph DOWNEY. The last mentioned is the only survivor of the family. Mr. McBRIDE and wife spent the remaining years of their lives upon the homestead in Clearfield township, where he died in 1848, his wife dying some years before. He left his property to his son Enos, daughters Catherine and Sally, and a daughter of Mrs. Nancy McGINLEY. The old homestead is now in possession of his grandson, John SWAIN. The family were among the first Catholic settlers of Butler county, and belonged to the first congregation of that faith organized within its limits.

CORNELIUS McBRIDE, eldest son of Patrick and Mary McBride was born in Clearfield township, Butler county, in 1813, was reared upon the farm, and received his education in the pioneer schools of his neighborhood. About 1848 he purchased 180 acres of land in Clearfield township, now owned by his son Francis P. Here he cleared a farm, erected buildings and resided to the time of his death which occurred January 7, 1894, at the advanced age of eighty-one years. Mr. McBRIDE married Mary McDEVITT, a daughter of James McDEVITT, of Donegal county, Ireland. She was the only member of her family who came to this country. By her marriage to Mr. McBRIDE she became the mother of the following children: Francis P.; James C.; Henry J.; Mary, wife of Smith TITUS, and Susan, of Butler. The mother died on April 19, 1869. Mr. McBRIDE was an ardent Democrat, and filled most of the township offices at different periods. He and family were members of the Catholic church, and gave liberally towards the erection of the St. John's church, of Clearfield township.

FRANCIS P. McBRIDE, eldest son of Cornelius and Mary McBRIDE, was born upon the homestead in Clearfield township, in 1852. He received a public school education and was reared upon the farm, assisting his parents in the home duties. He followed agriculture until 1891, when he engaged in oil producing, operating in the Hundred Foot field. In 1892 he located at Braddock, as a foreman for the Edgar Thomson Steel Company, which position he resigned [p. 850] to accept one upon the police force of Braddock. He continued to act in that capacity until March, 1894, and then returned to the old homestead in Clearfield township. Mr. McBRIDE is a Democrat, was elected a justice of the peace in 1880, and is now serving his fourth term in that office. In 1883 he was a delegate to the State convention, and has been a member of the county committee many times. He married Emma RODGERS, a daughter of James RODGERS, of Pittsburg, May 8, 1877, and has the following children: Mabel G.; Estella C.; Stephen; Tillie, and Joseph E. The family are members of St. John's Catholic church, of Clearfield township.

HUGH GALLAGHER, a native of Donegal county, Ireland, immigrated to Pennsylvania about 1800, and settled in Clearfield township, Butler county. He purchased about 300 acres of land, erected a cabin, and spent the remaining years of his life engaged in making a home for his family. The old homestead is now occupied by Paul KAUSLER. He married Jennie BUTLER, a native of Maryland, and their family consisted of the following children: John, who died in Winfield township; William, who died in Clearfield township; Hugh, who died upon the old homestead; Eunice, deceased wife of Patrick DOUGHERTY; Marjorie, deceased wife of John DUGAN; Catherine, wife of Edward WINNER, of Oakland township, and Jane, who married Abraham BRINKER, and for her second husband John COCHRAN. Mr. GALLAGHER and family belonged to the Catholic church, and he was buried in the old Catholic cemetery at Butler.

WILLIAM GALLAGHER, second son of Hugh and Jennie GALLAGHER, was born in Clearfield township, Butler county, in 1811, there grew to manhood, and spent his entire life in his native township. After arriving at his majority, he purchased 100 acres of land, for which he paid $300, and to this he afterwards added seventy-five acres. He cleared and improved this farm, and there died, December 2, 1891. His wife survived until December 26, 1893. Her maiden name was Grace Dugan, a daughter of Andrew Dugan, one of the early settlers of Clearfield township. They were the parents of four children, viz.: Andrew; Simon; Sarah A., wife of Dennis O'DONNELL, and Hugh P. Both he and wife were members of St. John's Catholic church, and liberal supporters of that congregation. Politically, he was a Democrat, and one of the respected citizens of the community.

ANDREW GALLAGHER was born on the homestead farm in Clearfield township, July 26, 1841, son of William and Grace GALLAGHER. He obtained a common school education, and remained with his parents until their decease. He received 100 acres of the home farm, and has devoted his whole attention to agriculture. He married Elizabeth McLAUGHLIN, a daughter of Patrick McLAUGHLIN, of Clearfield township, and their family are as follows: William; Daniel; Grace; Edward, deceased; Leo; Joseph; Michael, and Ella. Mr. GALLAGHER and family are members of the St. John's Catholic church, of Clearfield township, and in politics, he is a stanch Democrat.

CHARLES REILLY was born in Kildare county, Ireland, in 1831, son of John and Catherine (FAGAN) REILLY. At the age of eighteen he immigrated to the United States, and remained in New York city for several months. He then [p. 851] went to Pittsburg, and entered the employ of John Oliver, of Allegheny City, as a driver in his livery stable, with whom he remained until 1857. In that year he removed to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he continued the same business, but returned to Allegheny in 1859, and entered the employ of John Painter, as coachman. He subsequently purchased, in partnership with Lewis Hancock, the livery stables of John Oliver, his former employer, but remained in the employ of Mr. Painter until 1864. In that year he removed to his present farm in Clearfield township, Butler county, consisting of 150 acres, which he purchased in 1859. Since settling upon his land he has cleared the majority of it and made all the improvements. Mr. REILLY married Ellen CLARK, of Albany, New York, a daughter of William CLARK, a native of Ireland. They are the parents of thirteen children, as follows: John, deceased; Charles; William A., a resident of Washington; James, and Michael, both deceased; John H., of Glade Run; Joseph F., Stephen J.; Richard J., and four that died in infancy. Politically, Mr. REILLY is a stanch Democrat, has filled the office of school director for eighteen years, and treasurer and overseer of the poor fourteen years, also jury commissioner for three years. He and family are members of St. John's Catholic church, of Clearfield township, and he is one of the enterprising and respected citizens of the community.

EDWARD GEORGE LEITHOLD, was born in Saxony, Germany, in 1819, and at the age of twenty years immigrated to Pennsylvania, and purchased fifty acres of land in Jefferson township, Butler county, which he cleared and improved. His father came to Jefferson township shortly after our subject, accompanied by his two daughters, and settled upon a farm. In 1873 Mr. LEITHOLD removed to Delano, opened a hotel, and also engaged in the mercantile and lumber business. He married Henrietta Bauer, and reared a family of three children, viz.: Caroline, wife of Charles WHITEHOUSE; Amelia, wife of Alphonso KRAUSE, of Winfield township, and William, of Clearfield township. He was a member of the Saxonburg Lutheran church, in which society he filled the office of elder. In politics, he was a Democrat, and quite active in the local councils of his party. He died December 27, 1893.

WILLIAM LEITHOLD, only son of Edward George and Henrietta LEITHOLD, was born in Jefferson township, Butler county, January 15, 1844. He was reared a farmer and received his education in the public schools. He first settled in Jefferson township, and in 1870 purchased his present farm of 164 acres, in Clearfield township, upon which he has erected all of the buildings, and otherwise improved it. He married Elizabeth BAUER, a daughter of Peter BAUER, and has three children: Clara; Benjamin, and William. The family are adherents of the Lutheran church, and are connected with the Butler congregation. In politics, Mr. LEITHOLD is a Democrat, but in local affairs is an independent voter. He is the owner of one of the finest improved farms in the county, upon which he has three producing oil wells, which bring him in considerable income. He is a man of commendable public spirit, and is recognized as a successful and enterprising citizen.

ROBERT GALBREATH, SR., came to Butler county in company with his four brothers, from Indiana county, Pennsylvania, about the close of the last century, [p. 852] and settled in Buffalo (now Winfield) township. It is said that three of his brothers settled in the southeast part of the county and one in the northern part. Robert took up a tract of 400 acres, cleared a farm and resided thereon up to his death. He was one of the early justices of what is now Winfield township, in which part the family settled. His children are as follows: Robert; William; and Joseph, all of whom died in this county; Samuel, who died in Allegheny county; Mrs. Mary RALSTON, all of whom are dead. William and Joseph resided upon the homestead until their decease, and it is now the property of their descendants.

WILLIAM GALBREATH, second son of Robert GALBREATH, was born in Indiana county, Pennsylvania, and came with his parents to Butler county. He married Esther RIDDLE, and their children were: Robert; Mary, wife of Thomas WATSON, and Anne, who married William McCLUNG, all of whom are dead, excepting Mrs. McCLUNG, who resides in Oakland township. The father died about 1857. He was prominent in the Whig party, and was a member of the Covenanter church.

ROBERT GALBREATH, only son of William GALBREATH, was born on the homestead in what is now Winfield township, in 1819. He followed farming throughout his life, and died in his native township. He was active in the Whig and Republican parties, and was recognized as a worthy citizen. For many years he was an elder in the United Presbyterian church. He married Isabella, daughter of James McCAFFERTY of Buffalo township, to which union were born nine children, six of whom grew to maturity: Annie, deceased wife of James THOMPSON; Henry, who resides on a part of the old homestead; Caroline, wife of Dr. McKEE of Armstring county; Mary, wife of R.B. IVORY, an attorney of Pittsburg; Belle, who resides at home, and James M., a practicing attorney of the Butler bar.

MATTHIAS CYPHER, a soldier of the Revolution, is believed to have settled in the Shenango valley, Virginia, whence he removed to Winfield township, Butler county, Pennsylvania, about 1798. He purchased 250 acres of land, upon which he settled, situated where his grandson, William CYPHER, now lives. Here he resided until his death. He married, in Virginia, Elizabeth LITTLE, and was the father of the following children: John, who died in Winfield township; David, who served in the War of 1812, and died in the same township; William, who also died in Winfield; Matthias, who died in Jefferson township; Theresa, who married Patrick COLLINS; Hannah, who married Peter GALLAGHER; Mrs. Nancy McCANDLESS; Mrs. Ann RUFNER; Mrs. Peggy MORROW, Mrs. Catherine FRIEL, and Mrs. Betsey MARSHALL, all of whom are dead.

JOHN CYPHER, was born in Virginia, in 1787, son of Matthias and Elizabeth CYPHER, and came with his parents to Butler county when about eleven years old. He was reared in Winfield township, and in 1837 purchased the farm now owned by Mrs. KECK. Here he resided until his death, engaged in clearing and improving his land and making a home for himself and family. He married Mary HAGEN, a native of Ireland, and their children are as follows: John; Philip; Matthias; Bernard; Mrs. Kate MILLER; William; James; Michael; [p.853 ] Henry; Barbara, who married Joseph SMITH, Kesiah, and Francis. Mr. CYPHER died in 1871, and his wife in 1872. They were life-long members of the Catholic church, and are buried in St. John's graveyard.

PHILIP CYPHER, second son of John and Mary CYPHER, was born upon the homestead in Winfield township, Butler county, June 13, 1816. He was reared a farmer, and in 1851 purchased eleven acres of land, where his son Martin now resides, and settled upon it. He afterwards added fifty acres to this tract, and devoted his life to agriculture. He was a prominent member of the Democratic party, and filled the office of justice of the peace for many years. He married Nancy DENNY, a daughter of James DENNY of Clearfield township. She was born June 6, 1820. They were married by Father CODY, July 5, 1842, and lived to celebrate their golden wedding July 5, 1892. Six children were the fruits of this union, as follows: William; James; Martin; John B.; Mary, and Philip, all of whom are dead with the exception of Martin. Mr. CYPHER, like his father and grandfather, was a member of the Catholic church, and was connected with St. John's congregation. He died on March 12, 1894, and is buried in St. John's graveyard. His widow resides upon the old homestead.

MARTIN CYPHER, only living child of Philip and Nancy CYPHER, was born upon the homestead farm in Winfield township, June 20, 1847. He received a common school education, and afterwards spent three years at Witherspoon Institute, where he was graduated. He engaged in teaching in connection with farming, and taught in the public schools of Butler county for nineteen years. Mr. CYPHER married Eva BLEICHNER, a daughter of Nicholas BLEICHNER, of Clearfield township, at Summit Catholic church April 11, 1870. They have had nine children: Martha, born April 26, 1871, wife of Alfred FLEMING, of Buffalo township, to whom she was married at Mayville, New York, June 25, 1891; Mary Agnes, born December 29, 1872, married at St. John's church, Clearfield township, to William HUTZLER, June 7, 1894; Vincent, born December 13, 1874; Harry, born March 15, 1876; Philip, born August 7, 1877; Helen, born January 27; 1879; Philomen, born October 14, 1880, and died August 10, 1881; Melinda, born April 15, 1882, and Martin B., born January 10, 1884. Mrs. CYPHER was born April 5, 1852, and died April 5, 1886. The family are members of St. John's Catholic church, and in politics, Mr. CYPHER is a Democrat. He is one of the most intelligent and progressive citizens of his native township.

JAMES DENNY was born in Donegal county, Ireland, in 1778, a son of Michael DENNY. In 1794 he immigrated with his parents to Pennsylvania and settled in Cumberland county, near Carlisle. He was a shoemaker, and followed his trade in that county, as well as after his removal to Butler county, where he settled in 1799. His parents came with him, also his brother William. Another brother, Michael, settled in Armstrong county, and died there. William afterwards located on the lands first entered by James, married Ann DAUGHERTY, and his descendants are still residents of the township. James DENNY entered 200 acres of land in Clearfield township, upon which he lived until 1803, and then purchased 200 acres in the same township, where he resided down to his death, February 25, 1872. He married Mary O'DONNELL, a daughter of Arthur [p. 854] O'DONNELL, of Clearfield township, who immigrated from Ireland to Butler county, in 1798. She died on July 4, 1835. They were the parents of the following children: James, who married Eliza HAZLETT, reared three children and died in 1844; Michael, who married Elizabeth DUGAN, and died in Nevada; William; Arthur, who died in Clearfield township, married Bridget SHERIDAN, and had eight children; Mary, deceased wife of Edward CYPHER; Daniel; Nancy, widow of Philip CYPHER, and John. The family were among the first members of St. John's Catholic church, and in politics, Mr. DENNY was a Democrat. He was one of the substantial pioneers of Winfield and Clearfield townships.

WILLIAM DENNY, third son of James and Mary DENNY, was born in Clearfield township, Butler county, February 15, 1812, and was reared to manhood upon the homestead. In 1830 his father purchased 500 acres of land in what is now Winfield township, and James DENNY, Jr., and William DENNY went into business on it in 1837. James DENNY died in 1844, and his interest was purchased by Daniel DENNY. In 1847 William, Daniel and John DENNY went into business together, and have continued their partnership to the present time. They rebuilt the old mill and have carried on farming and milling. In 1870 they built three miles of the West Penn railroad, and on the completion of the road they opened a general store at Delano, where our subject was the first postmaster, the office being named in honor of the family. The Dennys operate 600 acres of land, and are among the leading farmers of the county. Mr. DENNY is a member of St. John's Catholic church, of Clearfield township, is a Democrat, in politics, and is an energetic and enterprising citizen.

DANIEL DENNY, son of James and Mary DENNY, was born in Clearfield township, Butler county, May 4, 1818, attended a subscription school of pioneer days, and since early manhood has been associated with the business enterprises of his brothers, William and John. He married Helen McLAUGHLIN, who died in 1866, leaving four children, viz.: Elvira, wife of John EASLEY, of Armstrong county; James, of Salt Lake city; Mary, who is unmarried, and Eleanor, wife of John MILLHAUSER. Mr. DENNY was married again to Margaret EASLEY. The family are connected with St. John's Catholic church, and in politics, he is a Democrat.

JOHN DENNY, son of James and Mary DENNY, was born August 15, 1824, upon the old homestead in Clearfield township. He was reared to manhood upon the farm, and has since been connected with the various business enterprises of his brothers. He married Sarah A. SHERIDAN, and both he and wife are members of St. John's Catholic church. Politically, Mr. DENNY is a stanch Democrat.

LEWIS A. KRAUSE was born in Saxe-Wiemar, Germany, in October, 1809, and lived upon a farm in his early youth. He received an excellent education, and filled an important public office before his immigration to this country. In 1853 he settled on a farm in Jefferson township, Butler county, where he resided until 1861, and then took up his residence at Hannahstown. He engaged in the hotel business, which he continued until 1863, and then retired. In 1859 he organized the Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and filled the office of president until his death, in June, 1871. Mr. KRAUSE was married [p. 855] in his native land to Fredericka SCHMERBAUGH, who became the mother of the following children: Alphonso; Alma, widow of Joseph RHEY; Robert; Pauline, wife of Charles REDICK; Julius, chief car inspector of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, at Pittsburg; Thielo, a merchant of Saxonburg, and Richard, deceased. Mrs. KRAUSE survived her husband sixteen years, dying in 1887. They were members of the Saxonburg Lutheran church. In politics, Mr. KRAUSE was an ardent Democrat, and though an active and influential member of his party, he would never accept public office.

ALPHONSO KRAUSE, eldest son of Lewis A. and Fredericka KRAUSE, was born in Saxe-Wiemar, Saxony, Germany, May 25, 1837, was educated in his native town, and came with his parents to Butler county in 1853. He was engaged in farming until 1868, when he formed a partnership with his brother Robert, under the firm name of R.& A. KRAUSE, and embarked in merchandising at Hannahstown, removing to Delano in 1871. He has been engaged in mercantile pursuits up to the present, in connection with various other business enterprises. In 1888 he was elected president of the Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Company, which position he has filled up to the present. Mr. KRAUSE was married on May 11, 1862, to Amelia LEITHOLD, and has seven children, viz.: Emma, widow of Henry PAUL; Albert, railroad agent at Delano; Lydia; Josie; Philip; Clara, and Hattie. The family are connected with Hannahstown Lutheran church, in which Mr. KRAUSE has been treasurer for many years. He is also a member of the board of managers of the Concordia Orphans' Home, of Jefferson township. He was a school director in Jefferson township since 1866, and when he moved to Winfield township was elected to the same office in said township, and held the position of secretary up to 1892, since which year he has been president of the school board. In politics, he is a Democrat, and is one of the leading citizens of the community, as well as one of its most successful business men.

ROBERT KRAUSE, second son of Lewis A. and Fredericka KRAUSE, was born in Saxe-Wiemer, Saxony, Germany, September 8, 1842, and was eleven years old when his parents immigrated to Butler county. He received a common school education in his native land, and only attended school for six months after coming to this county. He worked upon the homestead farm until the autumn of 1861, when he enlisted in Company C, Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserve, and served until mustered out in 1865. He participated in the battles of Gains Mill, where his whole regiment was captured and sent to Belle Isle prison, but exchanged in forty days, Second Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and the Wilderness, with many other lesser engagements. His regiment was again captured at the Wilderness, and he was held a prisoner at Danville, Andersonville, Florence, and Castle Thunder, for different periods, until the surrender of Lee. Returning to his home in Butler county, he resumed work upon the farm. In 1867 he purchased a store at Hannahstown, and soon afterwards became associated with his brother, Alphonso, under the firm name of R.& A. Krause. In 1871 they located at Delano, where they have ever since conducted a successful mercantile business. They also carry on a planing mill at Freeport, and are one of the prosperous firms of Butler county. Mr. KRAUSE married Maria CAMPHIRE, to whom have been born the fol-[p. 856] lowing children: Annie, wife of William FRUHLING; William; Lewis; Minnie; Flora; Richard, and Elsie. The family are connected with the Hannahstown Lutheran church, in which Mr. KRAUSE has filled the office of treasurer and trustee. In politics, he is a Democrat, but conservative in his political views and opinions. He is treasurer of the Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and is a leading and influential business man, as well as a progressive and public-spirited citizen.

THIELO KRAUSE, merchant, was born in Saxe-Wiemar, Germany, October 27, 1848, son of Lewis A. and Fredericka KRAUSE, and came to Butler county with his parents. He was reared in Jefferson township, learned the harness-maker's trade and carried on that business for himself eight years. In 1875 he took charge of the store of E.A. Helmbold & Company, at Saxon Station, and upon the death of Mr. HELMBOLD, he continued as a partner under the firm name of Krause, Helmbold & Company, at Saxonburg. In 1889 he purchased the interests of his partners, became sole proprietor of the store, and has since carried it on successfully. On May 13, 1873, he married Minnie C. HELMBOLD, a daughter of Ernest A. HELMBOLD. She was born July 5, 1853, and is the mother of eight children, as follows: Elvira; Laura; Antoinette; Carrie C., deceased; Della; Julius; Luella, and Maude, deceased. Mr. KRAUSE is an ardent Democrat, and has filled all of the offices in Saxonburg at different periods. He is a member of the I.O.O.F., both Lodge and Encampment.

JOHN M. SCOTT, physician and surgeon, was born in Indiana county, Pennsylvania, September 26, 1849, son of John and Mary (REED) SCOTT. His father was a native of Juniata county, born in 1807, and married a Miss HENDERSON, of Blairsville, who bore him one son, Thomas J., deceased. In 1838, he married Mary Reed, a daughter of Samuel Reed, of Indiana county, who became the mother of five children, viz.: James S., a resident of Altoona; Sarah E., deceased; John M., and two that died in early youth. John SCOTT removed from Johnstown to Indiana county, where he purchased a farm of 106 acres, upon which he died, April 13, 1860. His wife survived, and resides with her son, John M., at Carbon Black, Butler county. The subject of this sketch received a common school education, and taught in early manhood. He afterwards read medicine with Dr. William C. PARKER, of Jacksonville, Pennsylvania, attended lectures at Starling Medical College, Columbus, Ohio, whence he returned to Livermore, Pennsylvania, where he was associated in practice with Dr. M.R. BANKS for a year and a half. In March 1873, he located Carbon Black, Butler county, where he has since built up a lucrative practice. Dr. SCOTT was married on September 26, 1872, to Agnes M. BLACK, a daughter of John A. BLACK of Greensburg, to which union have been born six children, five of whom survive, viz.: Mary J.; Carrie V.; John B.; Helen, and Jane W. The family are connected with the Presbyterian church, and in politics, the doctor is a stanch Republican. He is highly respected by the citizens of the community, and in his professional duties has won the confidence of a large clientele. He is one of the well known physicians of the county, and stands well with his medical brethren.

WILLIAM WITTE was born in Prussia, Germany, in 1804, there grew to manhood and learned the carpenter's trade. In 1848 he immigrated to Pittsburg, [p. 857] Pennsylvania, where he followed his trade until 1856. In that year he purchased fifty acres of land in Winfield township, Butler county, now the property of his son, Fred W. He improved this farm and resided upon it the balance of his life, dying in 1887. He married Sophia WEHLING before coming to this country, and one son was born to this union, Fred W. Mrs. WITTE died in 1883. They were members of the Lutheran church, and in politics, he was a Republican.

FRED W. WITTE, only child of William and Sophia WITTE, was born in Prussia, in 1834, and came to Pittsburg with his parents when about fourteen years of age. He learned the glass-blower's trade, and obtained an education by attending the night schools in Pittsburg. He followed his trade until about 1868, when he purchased 100 acres of his present farm, to which he has since added thirty-six acres. He also owns two other farms of fifty and 125 acres, respectively, which property he has accumulated by his own industry. Mr. WITTE married Amelia BICKER, a daughter of H.H. BICKER. She died in 1869, leaving one son, William H., of Buffalo township. Politically, Mr. WITTE is a Republican, has always taken a decided interest in politics, and has filled the office of school director, and other minor positions in his township. He was a delegate to the congressional convention of 1889, and is a member of the county committee. He is one of the leading and public-spirited citizens of Winfield township, and is always ready to give his support to every worthy enterprise.

GEORGE FRUHLING was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, in 1816, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth K. FRUHLING. His parents died when he was a child, and he was reared upon a farm and educated in the public schools of his native land. In 1849 he immigrated to Pennsylvania, and joined his brother Casper, who had previously come to Armstrong county, and the following year he settled in Winfield township. Butler county. He found employment at the Buffalo furnace, in Clarion county, where he continued to work until 1853, when he took up his permanent residence in Winfield township. He purchased sixty-seven acres of land, now owned by his son August, upon which he still resides. He married Margaret SYPHERS, in Germany, and is the father of the following children: August; Maggie, deceased, and Henry. Mrs. FRUHLING died in 1877. She was a member of the Evangelical church, to which denomination her husband belongs. In politics, he is a Republican.

AUGUST FRUHLING, eldest son of George and Margaret FRUHLING, was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, in 1847, came with his parents to Pennsylvania in early childhood, and grew to manhood upon the homestead in Winfield township, where he is now cultivating 105 acres of land. He married Henrietta BICKER, a daughter of Rev. H.H. BICKER, to which union have been born eleven children, viz.: Annie, wife of H.H. ROENICK; Charles; Mary; Herman; Emma; Ida; Walter; Albert; Edwin; Harvey, and William. Mr. FRUHLING is a member of the Evangelical church and a trustee in that society. In politics, he is a Republican, has filled the offices of school director and overseer of the poor, and is the pressent assessor and collector of the township. He is a member of the K.of P., of Saxonburg, and a worthy and enterprising citizen.

JACOB GIESLER was born in Hesse-Cassel, Germany, and grew to manhood in his native land. He was twice married before his immigration to this country. [p. 858] His first wife left two children, Julius and Elizabeth. His second wife was Christina SEPPEL, who bore him five children, viz.: William; Margaret; Elesa; Christina, and Kate. In 1848 the family immigrated to Pennsylvania, and settled in Harmony, Butler county, the following year. Mr. GIESLER subsequently purchased a farm of sixty acres in Winfield township, where his son William now resides. He cleared and improved this property, and died upon it in 1855. His wife survived him eight years, dying in 1863.

WILLIAM GIESLER, only son of Jacob and Christina GIESLER, was born in Hesse-Cassel, Germany, in 1838, came with his parents to Butler county, and here grew to manhood. In 1862 he enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served nine months. In February, 1864, he again enlisted, in Company B, Second Pennsylvania Artillery, and remained in the service until January, 1866. After his discharge he returned to Butler county and subsequently purchased the old homestead, owning at the present time seventy-one acres of well improved land. In 1862 he married Martha VOLAND, a daughter of Henry VOLAND. Ten children are the fruits of this union, viz.: Mollie, wife of Charles GEBHART; Henry; Kate; John; Tillie; Albert; William; George; Emma, and Lewis. Mr. GIESLER is independent in politics, and has filled the offices of school director and overseer of the poor. He is a member of the Saxonburg Lutheran church, and is connected with A.G.Reed Post, G.A.R.

HENRY KEASEY was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, in 1811. His father was connected with the management of one of the early furnaces of that locality, and Henry thus acquired a knowledge of the business. In 1847, he came to Butler county, with William SPEAR, and built the Winfield furnace, in Winfield township. He managed the furnace for Mr. SPEAR and his successors, as long as it was kept in operation. He then purchased the DUFF farm of 200 acres, in Winfield township, and engaged in farming until 1890, when he sold the place to Joseph BRITTAIN, Jr., of Butler. Mr. KEASEY married Elizabeth CAMPBELL, and was the father of the following children: George W.; Henry C.; Margaret, wife of James DUGAN, a superintendent in the Carnegie Iron Works; Mary, wife of Augustus ACRE, of Ohio, and Webster, of Winfield township. Mr. KEASEY died on May 1, 1890; his widow is still living. He was a member of the Lutheran church, and connected with the Worthington congregation. Politically, he was a Democrat, and was one of the influential members of his party in Butler county.

GEORGE W. KEASEY, eldest son of Henry and Elizabeth KEASEY, was born in Shippenville, Clarion county, March 26, 1848. He was reared in Butler county, and was educated in the common schools of Winfield township, and at the high school of Holidaysburg. He remained upon the farm until he was twenty years of age, and then went into the oil fields of Venango county, and subsequently followed the same business in Armstrong, Beaver and Butler counties, as a driller and tool dresser, until 1883. In that year he returned to Butler county and engaged in the purchase of live stock for the Butler and Pittsburg markets, which he has followed down to the present. He also carries on a retail butcher trade in connection with farming. He settled upon his present farm in [p. 859] 1883. Mr. KEASEY married Bridget PATTERSON, a daughter of Thomas PATTERSON, of Armstrong county, to which union have been born nine children, viz.: Lillian; Henry, who died in September, 1893; Cora; George; Lulu; Henrietta; Cleveland; Charley, and Harry. The family are adherents of the Lutheran church, and in politics, Mr. KEASEY is a Democrat.

HENRY C. KEASEY, second son of Henry and Elizabeth KEASEY, was born May 19, 1849, at Winfield furnace, Butler county, and was reared upon the homestead in Winfield township. In 1881 he went to Karns City, Pennsylvania, and engaged in the hotel business, remained three years and subsequently conducted hotels at Bennett and Tarentum, Pennsylvania. In February, 1894, he went into the hotel business at Saxon Station, Butler county, where he is still located. Mr. KEASEY married Fannie BURTNER, a daughter of Philip BURTNER, who has borne him one daughter, now deceased. Politically, he is a Democrat, and has held the offices of constable and tax collector in Winfield township. He is a member of Allegheny Lodge, K.of P., of Allegheny.

WEBSTER KEASEY, youngest son of Henry and Eliza KEASEY, was born in Winfield township, Butler county, February 4, 1856, received a common school education, and in 1876 found employment in the oil fields of McKean and Butler counties. In 1879 he went to Leadville, Colorado, and engaged in railroad contracting for four years, then returned to the homestead and followed farming until 1889. In that year he formed a partnership with J.A. RANSOM, and engaged in the lumber business until 1893, when they leased the lime quarries now operated by the Acme Lime Company, Limited, and the following year organized that company, of which he is superintendent and one of the original stockholders. In May, 1894, Mr. KEASEY was appointed postmaster of Rough Run, and is the present incumbent in that office. Politically, he is a Republican. He married Nannie CAMPBELL, a daughter of Johnson and Annie CAMPBELL, and has one son. Mr. KEASEY is one of the enterprising citizens of his native township.

JOHN H. FLEMMING, a native of Saxe-Wiemar, Saxony, immigrated to Butler county, in 1836, and settled at Saxonburg. He was a tile manufacturer, but did not follow his business in this country. Soom after coming here he went to Butler, and was employed in the stables of the Beatty House. Remaining there for a short time he went to Pittsburg, and took charge of the stables of the Red Lion Hotel, filling that position for seventeen years. In 1853 he settled in Winfield township upon a tract of seventeen acres, disposing of a farm of 112 acres which he owned in Buffalo township, and subsequently added forty acres to his homestead, upon which he resided down to his death, July 15, 1893. He married Christina WIEFEL, who died in 1877. Their children were as follows: John M., deceased; Charles, and Emma, wife of August ASCHE. In politics, Mr. FLEMMING, was a Democrat, and in religious faith, a member of the Evangelical church.

CHARLES FLEMMING, son of John H. and Christina FLEMMING, was born September 26, 1857, upon the homestead farm in Winfield township. He learned the carpenter's trade and followed it for fifteen years. In 1881 he purchased his present farm of fifty-three acres, retired from the carpenter busi-[p. 860] ness in 1886, and has since devoted his whole attention to agriculture. He married Mary GERNER, a daughter of Anthony GERNER, of Winfield township, and has four children, viz.: Clara; Tillie; Emma, and Minnie. The family are connected with the Hannahstown Lutheran church, in which he has served as trustee. In politics, Mr. FLEMMING is a Democrat, and is a member of Grange, Number 1105, P.of H.

GEORGE WIEFEL was born in Prussia, came to Butler county in 1837, and purchased a farm in Winfield township, adjoining the Flemming homestead, in 1840. Here he resided until his death, which occurred in 1868. His widow resides with her grandson, Charles FLEMMING. She is the mother of two children, Christina, deceased wife of John H. FLEMMING, and Hannah, widow of Fred FRIES. Mr. WIEFEL was a Democrat, in politics, and was a member of the Evangelical church.

JOHN LEFEVRE, Sr., son of Jacob Lefevre, was born in Jefferson township, Butler county, March 20, 1818, was reared upon his father's farm, and followed farming in connection with the carpenter's business and undertaking. In 1860 he was elected coroner of Butler county, on the Republican ticket, and has also served as constable, collector and assessor, of Jefferson township. In 1842 he married Mary E. PATTON, of Oakland township, to which union have been born five children, viz.: Mary E., wife of Robert ELLIOTT; James, deceased; John; Rachel, wife of Henry KAUFOLD, and Isabel, wife of Benjamin SARVER. Mrs. Lefevre died in March, 1877. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Lefevre is now a resident of Winfield township.

JACOB FRANTZ was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, in 1806, a son of Jacob FRANTZ of the same county. His father was a miller and farmer, and reared a family of nine children, viz.: Jacob; Delilah, who married Peter PAINTER; Sarah, who married George BERGER; Abraham; Isaac; Emma, who married John SCOTT; Peter; Mary, who married John McCORMICK, and Elizabeth. The family lived in Armstrong county, where both the father and mother died. Jacob learned the milling business with his father, and also the shoemaker's trade, which he followed in connection with farming. In 1842 he married Agnes FORRESTER, of Armstrong county, who bore him the following children: Annie, who married Hiram A. SHAFFER; Jeanette, and Agnes, both deceased; James, who was killed in battle while serving in the Union army; Margaret, who first married Frank P. PAINTER, and for her second husband, William H. RAYWORTH; William; John S., and Stephen A. Mr. FRANTZ was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, and a charter member of Center congregation, in which he filled the office of deacon for many years. In politics, he was a Democrat, held most of the township offices, and was a member of the early state militia. He died at Slate Lick, Armstrong county, in 1883. His widow resides upon the old homestead in that county.

JOHN S. FRANTZ was born at Slate Lick, Armstrong county, son of Jacob and Agnes FRANTZ. He received a common school education, entered the Western University, at Allegheny, in 1884, and spent two years at Waynesburg College. He studied engineering, and has been employed at Ford City in that capacity. He came to Butler county in 1888, resided in the borough of Butler [p. 861] one year, and then removed to Allegheny, in which city he lived for two years. Returning to Winfield township, Butler county, he purchased thirty acres of land, upon which he has erected a fine residence, and has since made this county his home. On October 6, 1885, he married Josephine BRICKER, a daughter of John BRICKER, of Buffalo township. Three children have been born to this union, one of whom, Edward S., survives. Mr. FRANTZ is a licensed preacher in the Methodist Episcopal church, but devotes his attention principally to his trade and agriculture. In politics, he is a Republican.

THOMAS FLEMING was born in Scotland, there grew to manhood, and afterwards immigrated to eastern Pennsylvania. About 1798 he came to Butler county and purchased 1,100 acres of land, in what is now Buffalo township. He built his cabin in the midst of an unbroken forest and commenced the work of creating a home for his family. He cleared a portion of the land, and the balance he divided among his sons. He married a Miss HENDERSON, and had a family of nine children, as follows: John; Robert; Allen; Thomas; Samuel; Alexander; James; Rebecca, and Elizabeth, who first married Johnson CRAVAT, and afterwards John ANDERSON. Mr. FLEMING kept a distillery, and dealt quite extensively in live stock, which he took to the eastern markets. While on one of these trips in 1836, he took sick on the summit of the Allegheny mountains, and there died. His wife died in 1833.

SAMUEL FLEMING was born in Buffalo township, Butler county, May 14, 1800, fifth son of Thomas FLEMING. He was reared upon the homestead, and in 1828 married Annie JOHNSTON, a daughter of Robert JOHNSTON of Summit township. They became the parents of five children, viz.: John, deceased; Rebecca, deceased wife of George HAZLETT; Samuel H.; Robert, and one that died in early youth. Mr. FLEMING died October 30, 1863, and his wife, in November, 1869. They were members of the Lutheran church, and in politics, he was an adherent of the Republican party.

SAMUEL H. FLEMING was born on the homestead farm in Buffalo township, May 18, 1833, son of Samuel and Annie FLEMING. He received a common school education and has always been engaged in farming. On December 26, 1861, he married Margaret Ann EKAS, a daughter of Thomas EKAS, of Buffalo township. Ten children are the fruits of this union, as follows: James W.; Harry B.; Homer H.; Charles W.; Emma M.; Rachel E.; Florence M.; Samuel M.; Ella M., and John G. Mr. FLEMING and wife are members of the Lutheran church, and in politics, he is a Republican. The family reside upon the old homestead in Buffalo township.

ROBERT FLEMING was born in Buffalo township, Butler county, March 18, 1836, and is a son of Samuel FLEMING, and grandson of Thomas FLEMING. He was reared upon the homestead farm, and received his education in the common schools. In 1860 his father gave him a portion of his present farm, to which he has since added by purchase, and is now the owner of 135 acres of well improved land. On April 26, 1860, Mr. FLEMING was married to Sarah J. BROWN, a daughter of John BROWN, of Buffalo township. To this union have been born nine children, as follows: Elmer E.; Jerry A.; John H.; Rebecca A.; Alice P.; Ulysses Grant; Albert A.; George O., and Oliver H. The family are connected [p. 862] with the Lutheran church, and in politics, Mr. FLEMING is a Republican. He has filled the office of school director, and takes a commendable interest in the prosperity of the public schools.

JOHN WEIR was born in Donegal county, Ireland, May 4, 1777, grew to manhood in his native land, served in the Irish Rebellion of 1798, and in 1800 immigrated to Wilmington, Deleware, where he worked in a powder factory for fourteen years. In 1812 he married Jane RONEY, a daughter of James and Elizabeth RONEY, natives of Ireland, and early settlers of Butler county. Soon after his marriage he enlisted in the War of 1812, and served in that struggle against England. In 1818 Mr. WEIR came to Butler county, and purchased 256 acres of land in Buffalo township, known as "Disappointment," and the following year, with his wife and five children, he settled upon his farm. His wife's parents came with them and settled in Winfield township. Mr. and Mrs. WEIR were the parents of eight children, viz.: John; William, deceased; Elizabeth, who married John MURRAY; Mary, who married David CALLAM; Margaret, deceased wife of Dennis MARTIN; Sophia, wife of Robert MORRIS; Alfred D., deceased and Jane, who married John H. BAIRD. Mrs. WEIR died in 1864, aged seventy-five, and her husband, in 1872, at the advanced age of ninety-five years. He served as captain of militia until he was sixty years of age, took a deep interest in churches and schools, was one of the first school directors in his township, and was recognized as a worthy and upright man.

ALFRED D. WEIR was born in Buffalo township, Butler county, August 13, 1823, was reared upon the Weir homestead, and received a good education. He followed school teaching in early manhood, and was a school director for more than twenty years, always taking a deep interest in educational matters. In 1853 he was elected a county auditor, and associate judge in 1876, and served on the bench a full term. He married Elizabeth J. MORRIS, a daughter of Robert MORRIS, of Freeport, April 12, 1855, to which union were born six children, as follows: Isabella, deceased; Margaret M., wife of Dr. R.C. McCURDY; Ida, deceased wife of Dr. J.M. BLAIN; John; Jennie, deceased and Alexander M. Judge WEIR was a member of the Presbyterian church, held the office of elder in that denomination for thirty-five years, and was a delegate to the general assembly, at Detroit, in 1891. He was one of the most prominent and progressive citizens of his native county, and closed his long and useful life, on his homestead, in Buffalo township, in June, 1894.

THOMAS GREER was a son of Matthew and Isabella (BOISE) GREER, who emigrated from Tyrone county, Ireland, in 1822, with a family of four sons and one daughter, named as follows: Charles; Robert; Matthew; Thomas, and Margaret. They settled in Washington county, Pennsylvania, where the father died some ten years later. In 1835 the widow, with her three youngest children, came to Butler county and settled in what is now the southeast corner of Jefferson township, where she resided until her death. Mathew and Thomas purchased farms here, the former afterwards removing to Buffalo township. Thomas was married in 1843, to Margaret Jane MORGAN, a daughter of Isaac MORGAN, to which union were born two sons: John M., president judge of Butler county, and [p. 863] Robert. Mrs. GREER died in October, 1846, and her husband married Elizabeth COOPER, a daughter of William COOPER, who became the mother of three sons, viz.: William H., who is in the pension department at Washington; Matthew S., of Jefferson township, and Samuel W., of Butler. Mr. GREER was a member of the Lutheran church, and a stanch adherent of the Republican party. He died upon the old homestead, where his widow is still living, January 31, 1880.

MATTHEW GREER was born in Ireland, November 8, 1811, immigrated to Pennsylvania with his parents, Matthew and Isabella (BOISE) GREER, when eleven years old and settled in Washington county, where he grew to maturity. In 1832, he married Rebecca NESBIT, a daughter of John NESBIT, of Washington county, who bore him three children, viz.: John, deceased; Matthew N., and Rebecca, who married Alexander BLACK, deceased. In 1835 Mr. GREER came to Butler county, and purchased a farm of 287 acres in Buffalo (now Jefferson) township, near Hannahstown. His wife died in 1838. In 1845 he married Elizabeth SARVER, a daughter of John SARVER, of Buffalo township, to which union were born six children, as follows: Mary J., who married Charles KRUMPE; Ella, who married Johnson J. HESSELGESSER; Elizabeth; Eliza, and Letitia, who married John Montgomery, and Thomas H. Mr. GREER sold all of his land with the exception of seventy-five acres, upon which he resided until 1850. In that year he bought a part of the McCALL tract, of 175 acres, and here died on October 11, 1883. His wife survived him ten years, and died in June, 1893. In politics, he was first a Whig and afterwards a Republican, and served as county commissioner, school director, auditor and collector.

MATTHEW N. GREER was born near Hickory, Washington county, Pennsylvania, March 14, 1835, and came to Butler county in infancy. He received a common school education and afterwards attended Witherspoon Institute and the Butler Academy, and then engaged in teaching. On September 18, 1856, he married Grizzella M. WALKER, a daughter of Johathan WALKER, of Clinton township, and in 1861 he purchased the Robert BARTLEY farm, in Buffalo township, upon which he has since resided. Nine children have been born of his marriage to Grizzella M. WALKER, four of whom are still living, as follows: John B., who is now probate judge of Marion county, Kansas; Emma, wife of Elmer E. CAMPBELL; Grizzella, wife of Robert M. McFARLAND, and Thomas DeWOLF. In 1862 Mr. GREER enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Thirty-seventy Pennsylvania Volunteers, was mustered in at Harrisburg, on August 23, and sent to Washington, D.C. He participated with his regiment in the battles of South Mountain, Antietam, and Chancellorsville, and was discharged on May 31, 1863. He served as orderly sergeant until the resignation of Lieutenant HARVEY, and then became second lieutenant. In February, 1864, he re-enlisted in Company L, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and was sent to Martinsburg, West Virginia. He was captured July 3, 1864, and taken to Andersonville prison, was exchanged in December following, and came home on furlough. In April, 1865, he rejoined his regiment, and was sent to Levenworth, Kansas, where he was honorably discharged on August 8, 1865. He returned to Butler county and resumed the duties of farm life. In politics, Mr. GREER is a stanch Republican, and has filled the offices of overseer of the poor, township clerk, school director and auditor, and in 1872 [p. 864] was elected register and recorder of Butler county. In 1881 he was elected prothonotary, and is now assessor of his township. He has been one of the prominent and active Republicans of the county, and has always taken a decided interest in public affairs. He is a member of the Lutheran church and an elder in that denomination. Like the majority of old soldiers, he is connected with the G.A.R., and is a member of James Harvey Post, Number 514.

MICHAEL HECKART was born in Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, in 1763, there grew to manhood, married and reared a family of eight children, as follows: John; Peter; Joseph; Elizabeth, who married Jacob MILLER; Catherine, who married Michael STEPP; William; Michael, and Francis. In 1812 Mr. HECKART removed to Butler county, and settled in Jefferson township, whence he afterwards went to Connoquenessing township. He died at Whitestown, and was buried in Mt. Nebo cemetery. He was a member of the Lutheran church.

FRANCIS HECKART, youngest son of Michael HECKART, was born in Northumberland county, July 1, 1808, came to Butler county with his parents when about four years old, and spent the remaining years of his life in this county. In 1832 he married Lydia SEAMAN, a daughter of John SEAMAN, of Harmony. Thirteen children were the fruits of this union, as follows: Michael S.; Paul, deceased; George W.; Catherine, deceased; Caroline, wife of John DUFFORD; William; John; Mary A., wife of Samnuel S. FLEMING; Sarah, wife of William W. BRANDON; Elizabeth, wife of Andrew McCAFFERTY; Lydia, wife of James HARBISON; Amelia, wife of Seward BRANDON, and Rachel L. In 1846 Mr. HECKART purchased a farm in Connoquenessing township, upon which he resided until his death, January 17, 1889. His wife died on July 5, following. In early life he was a member of the Lutheran church, but afterwards united with the Reformed denomination. In politics, he was a Republican.

MICHAEL S. HECKART was born in Connoquenessing township, Butler county, April 23, 1833, was reared upon the farm, and learned the carpenter's trade, which business he followed for many years. On September 16, 1862, he married Elizabeth C. FLEMING, a daughter of James and Margaret FLEMING, and the same year located on his present homestead in Buffalo township. Three children were born of this union, viz.: Mina M., wife of John HARBISON; Lydia E., and John F., a minister of the Lutheran church. Mrs. HECKART died on April 18, 1868. She was a member of the Lutheran church, in which society Mr. HECKART has filled the office of elder for thirty years. Politically, he is a Republican, and has served as school director, and filled other minor positions.

JACOB BYERLY was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, February 25, 1799, was reared in his native county, and learned the cabinet maker's trade. On January 10, 1822, he married Susannah HEPLER, a daughter of John HEPLER, of Armstrong county, and the following year came to Butler county, and purchased seventy acres of land in Buffalo township. He afterwards bought adjoining tracts, until he owned 247 acres of well improved land. Here he died on March 13, 1855. His wife survived until July 16, 1884. They were the parents of nine children, as follows: Martha, who married Jacob BURTNER; Mary, wife of Thomas EKAS; Phoebe, deceased wife of John REIGER; John; Michael; Jacob; Benjamin, and Elizabeth J., the last three of whom are dead, and Adam. The [p. 865] parents were members of the Lutheran church, and in politics, Mr. BYERLY was a Republican.

JOHN BYERLY, eldest son of Jacob and Susannah BYERLY, was born upon the homestead in Buffalo township, December 7, 1827, received a common school education, and has followed farming since boyhood. He is one of the most extensive and successful farmers in the county, and is the owner of over 700 acres of land in Butler and Allegheny counties. He resides upon the old homestead, and has fifteen producing wells on the Jefferson township farm, in which, however, the Byerly heirs have an interest. In politics, he is a stanch Republican, and one of the representative citizens of his township.

THOMAS HARBISON, sixth son of John and Massy HARBISON, was born in Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, in 1798, was reared upon his father's farm, and attended the pioneer subscription school of his neighborhood. He married Jane McCURDY, a daughter of John McCURDY, of Allegheny county, May 15, 1823, and the following year purchased the present Harbison homestead in Buffalo township, containing 260 acres. Here he died April 30, 1870, and his wife, October 7, 1872. They were the parents of six children, viz.: John, deceased; Mary, who married Jacob HILLIARD, of Washington township; James; David; Elizabeth, who married John MITCHELL, and for her second husband, Joseph GIBSON, and Sarah, deceased. Mr. HARBISON and wife were members of the Presbyterian church, and died in that faith. He was an adherent of the Republican party, and filled the offices of supervisor, collector and constable in Buffalo township.

JAMES HARBISON was born upon the old Harbison homestead, in Buffalo township, Butler county, September 13, 1828, son of Thomas and Jane HARBISON. He was reared upon the farm, and attended the district school during his boyhood days. On November 11, 1852, he married Susannah GIBSON, now deceased, a daughter of Joseph GIBSON, of Allegheny county. Five children were born to this union, viz.: Joseph P.; Elzena J., deceased; Annie E.; Melna, S., deceased, and Margaret J.G. Mr. HARBISON was engaged in merchandising at Monroeville for a period, and kept a hotel in Freeport from 1882 until 1887. He then returned to the farm where he now resides. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church, is a Republican in politics, and has been township auditor and supervisor. He is a direct descendant of Massy HARBISON, the story of whose capture and escape will be found in this work. He possesses the only picture of Mrs. HARBISON in existence, and also owns the spinning wheel which she used during pioneer days.

THOMAS BARTLEY, fifth son of Thomas and Margaret BARTLEY, was born in Penn township, Butler county, in 1812, and was reared upon the old homestead. He afterwards went to Allegheny and learned the brickmaker's trade, and was there married, in 1837, to Mary DICK, a daughter of David DICK. In 1857 he purchased 240 acres of land in Oakland township, Butler county, and lived upon it until 1871, then sold out and returned to Allegheny, where he was engaged in the manufacture of brick down to his death, March 14, 1877. His widow resides at Wilkinsburg. They were the parents of seven children, viz.: William J.; Isabel, wife of Samuel PATTON, of Oakland township; Thomas A.; David, [p. 866] deceased; Mary L., wife of William KENNEDY, of Allegheny; Joseph, and Margaret A., wife of William CUMMIN, of Allegheny. Mr. Bartley was a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, a supporter of the Democratic party.

WILLIAM J. BARTLEY was born in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, January 10, 1840, and was seventeen years of age when his parents settled in Oakland township. He remained on the farm until September, 1864, when he enlisted in Company K, Fifth Pennsylvania Artillery. His command went to Camp Wright, thence to Washington, and guarded the Orange and Alexandria railroad until going into winter quarters at Fairfax Court House. The following spring his company was sent to the battle field of Bull Run, and detailed to bury the remains of the soldiers who fell in that fight. He was honorably discharged at Vienna, Virginia, July 2, 1865, and returned to his home. Mr. BARTLEY was married October 18, 1866, to Emeline MELLINGER, a daughter of Lewis S. MELLINGER, of Oakland township, to which union have been born five children, viz.: Harry M.; William D.; Lewis S., deceased; James L., and Zetta V. In the spring of 1877 he purchased the Robert BARTLEY farm in Buffalo township, upon which he has since resided. Politically, Mr. BARTLEY is a Democrat, and is secretary of the school board of his township. Like his parents, he is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and a liberal supporter of that denomination.

ALEXANDER WATSON was born in Wigtonshire, Scotland, October 10, 1810, a son of Alexander WATSON, who was born in the same place, in 1780. His father married Agnes RICHARDSON, a daughter of Thomas RICHARDSON, who bore him seven children, viz.: Mary, who married James McNISH; Isabel; Sarah, who married James CARTER; Agnes, who married Samuel SMITH; William; Elizabeth, who became the wife of Andrew RANEY, and Alexander, all of whom are dead. The subject of this sketch learned the blacksmith's trade in his native land, which he followed in connection with farming. In 1834 he married Elizabeth ARNOT, a daughter of Janes ARNOT, of Scotland, and became the father of five children, as follows: John A.; William; Alexander; Thomas, deceased, and Isabella, wife of John MYERS, of Buffalo township. In 1849 Mr. WATSON immigrated to Butler county, and purchased a farm of eighty-four acres in Buffalo township, upon which he lived for twenty-five years. He then purchased a home in Monroeville, where his wife died on April 15, 1892. He was one of the oldest citizens in the county at the time of his death, August 17, 1894. He was a member of the Freeport Presbyterian church, and in politics, a Republican.

JOHN A. WATSON, son of Alexander and Elizabeth Watson, was born in Wigtonshire, Scotland, January 27, 1836, left Scotland when nine years old and came to Butler county with his parents. On October 31, 1865, he married Mary A. RONEY, a daughter of James M. RONEY, of Buffalo township, and is the father of the following children: James A.; William J.C.; Josiah M., deceased; Alonzo M.; Elizabeth M.W.; Jennie; Alfred D.W.; Mary A. (the last three mentioned are dead), and David M. Mr. WATSON followed agriculture until 1868, when he embarked in merchandising at Sarversville, where he continued in business for four years. He afterwards carried on a general feed store at Greece City, and was also engaged in contracting. He then removed to [p. 867] Scotia county, Ohio, remained there three years, and returned to Butler county, and purchased ninety-five acres of land in Buffalo township, upon which he has since resided. In July, 1861, he enlisted in Company A, Fourth United States Cavalry, at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and participated in the following battles: Bull Run, Yorktown, Williamsburg, West Point, Hanover Court House, Fair Oaks, Mechanicsville, Peach Orchard, Gaines Mill, White Oak Swamp, Nelson's Farm, Malvern Hill, South Mountain, Antietam, Hickory Gap, Savage Station, Ashby's Gap, Fredericksburg, Snow Hill Farm, Franklin, Middleton, Lebanon, Sparta, Chickamauga, Oklona, and Shelbyville. He was honorably discharged at Kenesaw Mountain, July 1, 1864, and returned to his home. He is a member of the Freeport Post, Number 210, G.A.R., and also of Butler Camp, Number 45, U.V.L. Mr. Watson is an elder in the Presbyterian church, has filled the office of school director in his township, and in politics, he is a Republican. He is one of the worthy and progressive citizens of his township.

DAVID L. HOOVER was born in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, in 1807, eldest son of John HOOVER of that county, who came of German ancestry. When our subject was quite young his parents removed to Armstrong county, where he was reared upon a farm. He there married Mary MYERS, a daughter of Nicholas MYERS, who became the mother of five children, viz.: George F., of Washington township; Emily, widow of John PHILLIPS; Sarah, wife of Thomas BROWN; Nicholas M., of Butler, and Albert M., of Parker. In 1842 Mr. HOOVER removed with his family to Buffalo township, Butler county, purchased a farm of eighty-seven acres, and spent the remaining years of his life thereon. He died in January, 1892. He was a member of the Lutheran church of Freeport, and in politics, a stanch adherent of the Republican party.

JOHN McINTYRE was born in the town of Stranraain, Wigtonshire, Scotland, October 23, 1823, and is a son of William McINTYRE, a native of the same place, born February 17, 1778. His father was a cooper and farmer, and married Mary McNISH, a daughter of William McNISH, the postmaster of the town, April 9, 1801. They became the parents of eleven children, viz.: Jane, deceased; William, deceased; Jane; Margaret, who married Anthony DOUGLASS; James; Jessie, who married Henry CAMP; Mary A., deceased wife of Robert HENDERSON; Carolina, deceased; John; Archibald C.F., and Caroline A.E. The family immigrated to Pennsylvania in 1832, and settled in Armstrong county, where the father purchased 300 acres of land. He cleared and improved this property, and resided upon it down to his death, January 15, 1851. His wife survived him twenty-nine years, dying February 9, 1880. The subject of this sketch came with his parents to Armstrong county, and was reared upon the homestead farm. In 1851 he settled upon his present farm in Buffalo township, Butler county, and on March 2, 1852, was married to Mary J. MILLER, a daughter of Nathaniel MILLER, of Harrison township, Allegheny county. Four children have been born to this union, viz.: Nathaniel; Mary, wife of David H. Easley; Jennie A., wife of Washington B. ALTER, and Caroline A.E. Mr. McINTYRE is an elder in the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he is a Republican. He has served in the office of school director nine years, and has also been assessor, collector, and supervisor in his township.

NATHANIEL McINTYRE was born in Buffalo township, Butler county, May 20, 1853, and is the only son of John and Mary J. McINTYRE. He received a common school education, and afterwards attended the Freeport Academy. On May 20, 1879, he married Mary E. McLAUGHLIN, a daughter of George McLAUGHLIN, of Clarion county, and has two children, Alva M. and John N. He is a member of the Untied Presbyterian church, and has been the choir leader for twenty years.

JOHN BRICKER was born in South Buffalo township, Armstrong county, June 15, 1824, son of John and Isabel BRICKER, of that county. His father was born in Armstrong county in 1793, was married in 1815, and reared a family of ten children, as follows: Elizabeth, who married John TRIMBLE; Martha, who married John HOLMES; Nicholas; James; David; John; Samuel; William; Harvey, and Hiram. Mr. BRICKER died in 1875, and his wife the following year. They were members of the Presbyterian church. The subject of this sketch was reared upon a farm and learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed in connection with agriculture. He came to Butler county in the spring of 1855, and settled in Buffalo township in 1857, purchasing the PUGH farm, consisting of 109 acres, upon which he now resides. Mr. BRICKER was married October 5, 1845, to Agnes HESSELGESSER, a daughter of William HESSELGESSER, of Winfield township. Nine children were born to this union, as follows: Murphy L.; Josephine, wife of J.S. FRANTZ; Anna J., wife of James W. MILLER; Perry B.; Alzina; John T.; William L.; Hiram C., and McCURDY. Mr. BRICKER is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, is a Republican in politics, and has filled the offices of road commissioner, supervisor, overseer of the poor, etc. He is one of the well known farmers of Buffalo township.

JOSEPH WESTERMAN was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1819, came to New York in 1836, and there learned the carpenter's trade. He subsequently removed to Sharpsburg, Pennsylvania, and afterwards to Etna, and worked at his trade in both places. In 1839 he married Catherine SHULTZ, a daughter of George SHULTZ, to which union were born eleven children, viz.: John C., and Joseph, both deceased; Magdalene, wife of Peter Redfox; Louisa, deceased; Charles; Daniel, deceased; William; Frederick; Lida, wife of William EHRMAN; Mary E., wife of Gilmore CLARK, and Annie H., who married Albert CRUIKSHANK, and subsequently Daniel MILLER. In 1848 Mr. WESTERMAN came to Butler county and settled in Buffalo township, where he owned 165 acres of land. He resided there until his death, March 2, 1873. His widow resides with her son Samuel. Mr. WESTERMAN was a member of the Evangelical church, and a class leader in that society. In politics, he was a Republican.

SAMUEL WESTERMAN, son of Joseph and Catherine WESTERMAN, was born upon the homestead in Buffalo township, November 17, 1853. He was reared to manhood on the farm, and received a common school education. On November 12, 1875, he married Elizabeth ESLEP, a daughter of William ESLEP, of Allegheny county. Eight children have been born to this marriage, as follows: Minnie E., deceased; Joseph W.; Emma M.; Raymond C.; Elmer W.; Edward S., deceased; Edna I., and Ralph Albert. Mr. WESTERMAN is a Republican, and is [p. 869] a school director, and also collector in his township. He resides upon the old homestead, and is a good, practical farmer.

A. W. LEASURE, merchant, was born in Winfield township, Butler county, in 1854, son of William and Ellen (HAZLETT) LEASURE. He was educated in the public schools, and afterwards learned boat building at McKeesport, and followed that business in connection with the carpenter's trade for twelve years. In 1893 he located at Monroeville and engaged in merchandising, which he has conducted up to the present. In 1894 he was appointed postmaster of Silverville, established the same year. Mr. LEASURE married Alice YOUNG, of Armstrong county, and has four children, viz.: Charles M.; Nellie J.; Effie M., and John M. Politically, he is a Republican, and is a member of the U.C. and J.of A.

CONRAD NOLF was born in Northampton county, Pennsylvania, in 1790, and there grew to maturity. His mother dying when he was quite young, he was adopted by Christian STENNINGER, with whom he remained until manhood. In 1813 he married Susannah GEORGE, of Northampton county, who became the mother of fourteen children, ten of whom grew to maturity, viz.: Farion, who married Susannah TOOMAS; Fayette, who married Daniel BROCIUS; Aaron, who married Sarah KING; Susannah, who married Mathew HUMPHREY; William, who married Angelina BOHLEN; Anthony, who married Martha ROLAND; Elizabeth who married William ROWLEY; Emma, who married Michael TRUBY; Christina, who married Lewis FOSTER, and Sarah, who married Emil WICKENHAGEN. All are now deceased except Aaron, William and Anthony. In 1815 Mr. NOLF purchased 200 acres of land in Jefferson county, upon which he remained twenty-eight years, and then located at Freeport, where he carried on the hotel and lumber business for two years, then removed to Cook county, Illinois, and two years later returned to Freeport. His wife died in 1869. He finally took up his residence with his son William in Buffalo township, Butler county, where he died May 12, 1883. He was a member of the Lutheran church, and filled the offices of elder and deacon in that society. Politically, he was a Republican, and served as a school director and supervisor.

WILLIAM NOLF, son of Conrad and Susannah NOLF, was born in Jefferson county, Pennsylvania, January 18, 1826. He was reared on the farm, and followed lumbering with his father. In 1843 he located at Freeport, where he married Angelina BOHLEN, a daughter of Edward BOHLEN, December 16, 1852. Five children were born to this union, four of whom are living, viz.: Mary E.; Margaret B.; William R., and Angie L. In 1862 Mr. Nolf purchased his father's saw mill at Freeport, and in 1868 he bought the BUCKLEY farm, in Buffalo township, Butler county, containing 120 acres, upon which he now resides, and dealt extensively in grain and hay for a number of years. He is a member of the Lutheran church, in which he is a trustee and member of the council, and has served as deacon for ten years. In politics, he is a Republican, and has filled the offices of school director, collector and assessor.

WILLIAM M. RALSTON was born in South Buffalo township, Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, February 18, 1861, son of Joseph W., and Isabel RALSTON, of that county. His father was born at Slate Lick, Armstrong county, in 1826, was a school teacher for many years, and afterwards a farmer. In 1849 he went [p. 870] to California, remaining there until 1854, then returned to Armstrong county and purchased the CLAPOLE farm, in North Buffalo township. He sold this in 1859, purchased a farm in South Buffalo township, which he afterwards disposed of and bought another at Mackville, where he now resides. Joseph W. RALSTON and Isabel MILLER, daughter of William MILLER, of North Buffalo township, Armstrong county, were married on May 20, 1856, and are the parents of nine children, six of whom survive, viz.: John J., a United Presbyterian minister; William M.; Harry W.; Edward L.; James C., and Carrie. Mr. RALSTON is now serving as a justice of the peace, and is a member of the school board. The family are connected with the United Presbyterian church. The subject of this sketch was reared and educated in his native county, and has always followed farming. In 1885 he purchased the WEAVER farm in Buffalo township, Butler county, containing 187 acres, upon which he has since been engaged in agricultural pursuits. Mr. RALSTON was married on September 9, 1886, to Sarah A. SARVER, a daughter of John SARVER, of Buffalo township, and has four children, viz.: James H.; Edna M.; Phoebe B., and Alice B. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and politically a Republican.

[End of Chapter 71-1 (pgs.831-870) - Biographical Sketches: Butler, Summit, Clearfield, Winfield, Buffalo, Jefferson, Clinton, Penn, Middlesex Townships, and Saxonburg Borough
History of Butler County Pennsylvania, R. C. Brown Co., Publishers, 1895]

Previous Chapter 70-3 (pgs.775-831)

Continued Chapter 71-2 (pgs.870-910)

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Updated: 25 Sep 2000, 10:46