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:

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ROBERT PATTERSON was a native of Derry county, Ireland, where he married Eliza J. LOWRY, and came to the United States with his wife and one son, William R., in 1832. He settled first in Allegheny county, where he worked at the tailor's trade for several years, came to Butler county in 1838, and purchased a farm in Cranberry township. He returned to Ireland in 1854 for his wife's mother, and took passage in the "Arctic" on the return trip to the United States, but the ship was wrecked and all on board were lost excepting a few sailors. The widow was thus left to rear her family and carry on the farm, but this she did nobly, living to the ripe old age of eighty-three years, and dying in 1887. She could trace her lineage back for over two hundred years to many well known families of Great Britain, and her son, William R., has a photograph of a coat of arms of the LINDSAY family, which he prizes as an heirloom.

WILLIAM R. PATTERSON, was born in Ireland, in 1831, son of Robert and Eliza J. (LOWRY) PATTERSON, and was brought by his parents to Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, the year of his birth. He came to Butler county in 1838, where he has ever since resided. Mr. PATTERSON married Lucinda PETERSON, whose father, Peter PETERSON, came from York county, Pennsylvania, in 1800, and settled in Butler township, Butler county. In 1819 Mr. PETERSON purchased the farm of 175 acres, now occupied by his son-in-law, from John NEGLEY. He was then about forty-two years of age. He married Barbara PETERSON, a cousin, whose paternal grandfather, Garrett PETERSON, settled in Butler county in the last decade of the Eighteenth century, purchasing a large tract of land in Penn township. Peter PETERSON was a soldier in the War of 1812, and spent the remainder of his life in this county. The Petersons are of Dutch ancestry, and Mrs. Pat- [p. 911] terson's grandfathers on both sides of the house were also from Holland. Mr. Patterson is an ardent Republican, and is now (1894) one of the jury commissioners. He has held nearly all of the local offices of his township, and is onw of the enterprising citizens of the community.

WILLIAMSON BARTLEY was born in Middlesex township, Butler county, April 15, 1822, and was a son of James BARTLEY, a native of Ireland, who came to what is now Middlesex township, Butler county, about the year 1800, where the balance of his life was passed. Williamson was reared on his father's farm, and in 1847 he moved to a tract of 125 acres in Penn township, built his cabin in the midst of a forest, and went to work bravely to make a home. In this he succeeded, and resided upon his farm down to his death, which occurred in 1891. He married Elizabeth Pearce, whose father was one of the early settlers of this county. She died in 1887, aged sixty-five years. They were members of the United Presbyterian church, and he was a ruling elder in that body for many years. They were the parents of eight children, six of whom are now living. Mr. BARTLEY was a Republican in politics, was quite active in township and county affairs, and was a justice of the peace for several years. He served nine months in the Union army, as a member of Company E, Seventy-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers.

W.E. BARTLEY, youngest child of Williamson and Elizabeth Bartley, was born upon his present homestead in Penn township, Butler county, in 1862, and has always resided thereon. He was married June 12, 1890, to S. Jennie GRAHAM, a daughter of W.W. GRAHAM. She was born April 13, 1869. Both she and husband are adherents of the United Presbyterian church.

ADAM WEBER was a native of Baden-Baden, Germany, grew to manhood in his native land, and there married Verona VOCHT. In 1824 they immigrated to the United States, and in 1831 located in Penn township, Butler county, Pennsylvania. They reared a large family, the names of the sons being as follows: Samuel; Peter; George; Adam, and John. Mr. WEBER was a miller and worked at that business in Pittsburg before coming to Butler county. Both he and wife were life-long members of the Lutheran church, and were among the organizers of one of the first Lutheran churches in Butler county. Mr. WEBER died in 1873, aged sixty-nine years; his wife died in 1878, aged eighty-one.

JOHN WEBER was born upon his present farm in Penn township, Butler county, November 10, 1838, was reared a farmer, and received his education in the district schools. He married Maria MARKEL, a daughter of Zeno and Susan (STAMM) MARKEL, residents of Beaver county, where her grandparents settled at an early day. Her father is living at the age of seventy-nine years, and her mother at the age of seventy-seven. Eight children have been born to this marriage, as follows: Susan V., wife of David L. RENFREW; Mary A.; William P.; Clare E.; Margaret; Minnie N.; John A., and David M. Mr. WEBER and wife are members of the Lutheran church, and in politics, he is a Democrat. Besides the old homestead of 108 acres, he is also the owner of 150 acres adjoining, and 110 acres more in the same township. Mr. WEBER is one of the successful, enterprising and prosperous farmers of Butler county.

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JOHN GIBSON was born on the Atlantic ocean about 1793, during the voyage of his parents to America. They came from Down county, Ireland, settled first in Washington county, Pennsylvania, whence they removed to Allegheny county, and in 1828 settled in Clinton township, Butler county. His father purchased 160 acres of land at two dollars and fifty cents per acre, upon which he spent the balance of his life. He reared a large family and lived to a ripe old age. John was the youngest in the family, and inherited the old homestead in Clinton township. He married Mary MARTIN, to which union were born the following children: Nancy; Andrew; George; John; Eliza; James; Sarah B; Evan; William Robert, and Thomas, only four of whom are now living. The parents spent their lives upon their farm in Clinton township, dying at the ages of ninety-two and eighty years, respectively. John GIBSON was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was one of the well known pioneers of Butler county.

ROBERT GIBSON was born May 14, 1833, upon the homestead farm in Clinton township, Butler county, and is a son of John and Mary GIBSON. He grew to manhood attending to the duties of the farm, and has since continued to follow agricultural pursuits. In 1866 he purchased a farm at Sandy Hill, which he sold in 1870, and bought the old POTTS farm of one hundred acres in Penn township. In 1883 he purchased seventy-five acres of the William LOGAN farm, upon which he now resides. Mr. GIBSON was married January 10, 1850, to Elizabeth WIKE, to which union have been born twelve children, as follows: Thomas; John; Mary E.; George, deceased; James; Evan; Delia A., deceased; Lincoln; Sarah; Andrew; Charles, and Austin. Politically, he is a Republican, and has filled several of the offices in his township. Both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which denomination his parents also belonged.

THOMAS ROBINSON, SR., a native of Ireland, immigrated with his wife, Arabella, and family, to the United States in 1832, and settled in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania. The children were as follows: Abraham; Sarah; Mary Ann, and Thomas. In 1835 the family located within the present limits, of Penn township, Butler county, where Mr. ROBINSON purchased a tract of land upon which some twenty acres were cleared. He was a man of industrious habits, and devoted his attention to clearing his farm and making a home for his family. After many years of toil he succeeded in his object, and at his death, in 1863, he possessed a well improved homestead. His wife died in 1861. They were consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, Mr. ROBINSON was a stanch Whig until the dissolution of that party, when he became a Republican. He was a man of strong likes and dislikes, positive and decided in his opinions, and unswerving in defense of what he regarded as right. His son Thomas is one of the oldest and best known members of the Butler county bar.

JEREMIAH W. STARR was born in Concord township, Butler county, in 1831, son of John STARR, a pioneer of that township. His father was a member of the Lutheran church, and one of the founders of that organization in that locality. The subject of this sketch grew to manhood in his native township, and married Rebecca J. McCONNELL, a native of this county, whose parents were among its early settlers. Mr. STARR located in Penn township about 1875, pur- [p. 913] chased the LEONARD farm of 200 acres, which is now divided into three farms, and resided there until his removal to the borough of Butler, where both he and wife reside. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Six children were born to them, as follows: William M., of Butler; Albert H., of Penn township; Alawilda J., wife of Rev. N.L. BROWN; John M., of Butler; Wilbur H., deceased, and Ross L., of Butler.

ALBERT H. STARR, second son of Jeremiah W. and Rebecca J. STARR, was born May 6, 1858, in this county, and reared upon a farm, which business he has since followed. He married Maggie E. MARTIN, a daughter of James MARTIN, of Penn township, and to this union three children have been born, viz.: Wilber M.; Carl H., and Garth H. Mr. STARR is a Republican, in politics, and both he and wife are members of the Presbyterian church.

ROBERT PHILIPS was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, July 22, 1806, grew to manhood in his native county, and there married Mary TOWNSEND, born February 20, 1808, whose father served in the Black Hawk war. In 1844 they came to Butler county and settled upon a farm of 130 acres in Penn township, where their son, Elijah T., now lives. They were the parents of six sons and eight daughters, seven of whom are living, as follows: Sarah; Elijah T.; Josiah; Joseph; William; Mary, and Lydia. Mr. PHILIPS was an influential Republican in his township, and both he and wife were members of the Baptist church. He died in 1869, and his wife in 1882.

ELIJAH T. PHILIPS, eldest son of Robert and Mary PHILIPS, was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, November 25, 1832, remained with his parents and inherited the homestead farm. He was married March 4, 1861, to Jane Wallace, who was born May 31, 1836. They are the parents of five children, viz: Walter; William; Robert; Charles M., and Hannah J. Mr. PHILIPS is a Republican, and takes an active interest in the public schools of his township. He is a member of the Baptist church, while his wife is a Presbyterian.

JOHN PHILIPS was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1832, was reared upon a farm, and received his education in a district school. He came to Butler county prior to his marriage, and settled in Penn township, where he met and married Sarah, daughter of Philip MILLER, in 1856. Three children were born of this union. Orin M.; Frances M., wife of Dr. H.J. NEELY, of Beaver county, and Ada J., wife of Charles SPANG, of Butler. He afterwards moved to Middlesex township, where he died in 1863. His widow survives, and resides with her children.

ROBERT COOPER was born in Winfield township, Butler county, Pennsylvania, in 1815, son of Samuel COOPER, who came to Butler county as a young man with his stepfather, Robert JOHNSON. He married here and reared a family of eight children as follows: John; Robert; William; Jane; Ann; Elizabeth; Margaret, and Samuel. After his marriage he settled in Winfield township and spent the remainder of his days in that locality. Robert grew to manhood on his father's farm, and married Sarah SUTTON, a daughter of Jacob SUTTON, of Penn township, to which union were born eight children, viz.: Samuel H.; Jacob, deceased; Rachel, who married Peter KENNEDY; Rebecca, who married William LEWIS; Robert K.; Sarah E., deceased; Isaac, [p. 914] and Lydia, wife of John STEPP, of Allegheny county. Mr. COOPER and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically, a Republican, he has filled the office of township collector for two terms.

SAMUEL H. COOPER, eldest in the family of Robert COOPER, was born in Winfield township, Butler county, March 8, 1841, received a common school education, and has followed farming as a vocation. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and participated in the battles of South Mountain, Aquia Creek, Fredericksburg, and Chancellorsville, when his term of service having expired he was honorably discharged. Returning to his home he resumed life on the farm, and was married January 7, 1864, to Miss Sarah ARMSTRONG. Six children are the fruits of this union, as follows: Isaac S.; Rebecca J.; Albert R.; Chambers C.; Robert F., and Samuel H. Mr. COOPER is a member of the Baptist church, is a deacon in that body, and a liberal contributor. Politically, he is a Republican, has been a school director for three years, and has also filled the office of township supervisor. He has been a farmer since boyhood, and devotes his whole attention to agriculture.

SAMUEL ZIEGLER was born in Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, November 19, 1806, son of Abraham ZIEGLER, who came to Jackson township, Butler county, in 1814, and purchased the property of the Harmony Society from Father RAPP, the founder of that society, and the following year moved his family to his new home. Samuel grew to manhood in Jackson township, and attended one of the pioneer subscription schools of that locality. His father was one of the organizers of the Mennonite church of Harmony, and brought up his children in that faith. The subject of this sketch reared a family of seven children, as follows: Catherine, who married John WISE; Daniel; Jacob, and Samuel, both deceased; Elizabeth, deceased wife of Levi BOYER; Margaret, who was twice married, first to a Mr. BOYER and then to J. LYNN, and Moses deceased. The mother died October 1, 1847, and her husband, August 4, 1855.

JACOB M. ZIEGLER was born in Jackson township, Butler county, July 26, 1836, received a common school education, and grew to manhood in his native township. He was married March 6, 1859, to Elizabeth MARKEL, a daughter of Zeno MARKEL, of Evans City. Eight children were born to this union, as follows: Samuel A.; Mary E., wife of Joseph L. BLAKELEY; Zeno E.; Elizabeth, deceased; Daniel W.; Emanuel D.; Emma S., deceased, and Lucinda A. Mrs. ZIEGLER died February 26, 1885; her husband survived until December 10, 1891. They were members of the German Reformed church, in which denomination he filled the office of elder. Politically, Mr. ZIEGLER was a Republican, but took very little interest in public matters.

SAMUEL A. ZIEGLER, eldest in the family of Jacob M. and Elizabeth ZIEGLER, was born in Jackson township, Butler county, December 10, 1860, was reared in the home of his parents, and learned the blacksmith's trade. He afterwards worked four years at Renfrew, and two years at Mars. He sold out his shop at Mars in 1889, and went to Clinton township, where he remained one year, then purchased the old Mahood farm in Penn township, upon which he has since resided. He married Mary E. COOPER, a daughter [p. 915] of Robert COOPER, of Penn township, who has had three children: Estella M.; Iva E., and one that died in infancy. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, he is an adherent of the Republican party.

JESSE CRITCHLOW was born in Butler county, Pennsylvania, in 1811, his parents being among the pioneers of this county. He was reared on a farm and received his education in a pioneer subscription school. He learned the shoemaker's trade, which he followed in connection with farming down to his death, in 1866. He married Catherine WAREHAM, a daughter of Adam WAREHAM, of Butler county, and they were the parents of twelve children, viz.: Dorcas E., who married William RUCHENBERGER; John W.; Elizabeth, and Henry, the last three deceased; Catherine, who married Milton JONES; Adam, deceased; Henry C.; Martha, and Matilda A., both deceased; Mary J., wife of Daniel EMERICK; Robert G., and David. Mr. CRITCHLOW was a member of the Presbyterian church, and was an adherent of the Democratic party.

HENRY C. CRITCHLOW, eldest living son of Jesse and Catherine CRITCHLOW, was born in Forward township, Butler county, May 4, 1845, was reared upon his father's farm, and learned the carpenter's trade. On June 6, 1868, he married Mary E. CAMPBELL, a daughter of William J. CAMPBELL, of Middlesex township. Thirteen children were born to this union, as follows: Josephine; Milton; Robert; Blanche; Julia, deceased; William; Birdenas; Rollins; Pearl; Mamie; Walter; Frank, deceased, and Mary. Politically, Mr. CRITCHLOW is a Democrat, but aside from exercising the elective franchise, takes no active part in public affairs.

GEORGE MARSH was born in Monroe county, Pennsylvania, in 1793, son of Abraham MARSH, a Revolutionary soldier who served until the close of that war, then settled upon a farm in Monroe county, where he resided until his death. He was twice married, and was the father of five sons and three daughters. George, the youngest son, was reared upon the farm, and married Christina SARVER. They were the parents of seven children: Peter; Sarah, who married George WILSON; Julia, who married Aaron RAMSEY; Abraham; Timothy; Hannah, and Mary, who became the wife of Mr. CARNER. Mr. MARSH was a member of the Lutheran church, and in politics, he was a Whig. Both he and wife spent their lives in Monroe county.

ABRAHAM MARSH was born in Monroe county, Pennsylvania, September 2, 1822, and is the oldest living son of George and Christina MARSH. He learned the carpenter's trade in early manhood, and followed that business for thirty-five years, then purchased a farm of fifty acres in Penn township, Butler county, upon which he has since resided. Mr. MARSH is a member of the Baptist church, is a Republican in politics, and has filled the offices of school director and treasurer of the school board. He married Eliza M. KINSER, a daughter of Joseph KINSER, of Connoquenessing township, who is the mother of ten children, viz.: Lydia A., wife of Samuel McCANDLESS; George L.; William V.; Eliza B.; Meda, wife of Lorenzo LYONS; Elizabeth, wife of John UMSTEAD; Abraham W.; James W.; Murilda, and Sarah, wife of Robert DUNBAR.

ANDREW WIBLE was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1769, attended a subscription school in boyhood, where both English and German were [p. 916] taught, and grew to maturity in his native county. He came to Pittsburg at an early date, and worked under Major CRAIG in the erection of Fort Pitt, which was built on the site of that city. In 1799 he married Mary SMITH, a daughter of Adam SMITH, of Northumberland county, settled upon a farm, and followed that business the remainder of his life. Thirteen children were the fruits of this union, as follows: John; Susan, who married John McPHERRIN, and subsequently James THOMPSON; George; Catherine, who married John THOMPSON; Adam, (all of the foregoing are dead); Andrew; Sarah, who married Andrew ENGLISH; Harrison; Mary A., wife of Irwin ANDERSON; Eliza J., wife of William LOGAN; William S.; James, and one that died in early youth. Mr. WIBLE died in January, 1853, and his wife in 1873. They were members of the Presbyterian church.

WILLIAM S. WIBLE was born April 13, 1824, in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, grew to manhood in that county, and in 1846 married Sarah A. STEWART, a daughter of William STEWART, of Allegheny county, and subsequently located in Penn township, Butler county, where he yet resides. Mr. WIBLE is the father of five children, as follows: Almira; Mary J., wife of James STRAIN; George A.; William S., and Charles H. George A. was born in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, April 8, 1854, received a common school education, and adopted farming as his vocation. He married Jennie MARTIN, of Penn township, in 1884, and is the father of three children, viz.: Frank; Walter, and Imogene. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, a Republican. William S. was born upon the homestead farm, in Penn township, Butler county, September 5, 1858, received a common school education and has been a farmer since boyhood. He married Maggie N. BURTON, a daughter of William J. BURTON, of Penn township, and has three children, viz.: Olive Myrtle; Bessie J., and Clara M. Politically, he is a Republican, and has filled the offices of township auditor and inspector for several terms. Charles H. was born on the homestead in Penn township, May 8, 1866. He received a common school education, is a farmer, a member of the Reformed church, and in politics, a Republican. He married Elizabeth C. THOMAS, of Connoquenessing township, May 8, 1888, and is the father of two children: Sarah H., and Harry H. For more than forty years Mr. WIBLE has been a trustee and elder in the Presbyterian church. Politically, he is a Republican, was a school director for one term in Allegheny county, and three terms in Butler county, and has always manifested a deep interest in educational matters.

JAMES RANKIN was born in Fairview township, Butler county, Pennsylvania, February 24, 1846, son of David C. and Nancy (MOORE) RANKIN, and grandson of David RANKIN, one of the pioneers of Fairview township. Mr. RANKIN was reared upon the homestead in Fairview township, attended the district school of his neighborhood, and adopted farming as his vocation. In February, 1864, he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Third Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until July 10, 1865, when he was honorably discharged. On April 28, 1868, he married Mary L. GRAHAM, a daughter of John GRAHAM, of Parker township, to which union were born six children. Their names are as follows: Nancy J., wife of W.F. McKELVEY; Cora M., wife of George H. [p. 917] SCOTT; David A.; George C.; John O., and Harold G. Mrs. RANKIN died June 21, 1881, and he was again married, March 31, 1886, to Margaret E. MURTLAND, a daughter of John MURTLAND, of Concord township. Four children are the fruits of this union, viz.: Lilly T.; Mary L.; James W., and William P. Mr. RANKIN is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and is superintendent of the Sabbath school. In politics, he is a Republican, and has been assessor, supervisor and collector in his township. He is recognized as one of the leading farmers of the township, as well as a representative, worthy citizen.

FELIX H. NEGLEY was born near East Liberty, Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, May 24, 1833, son of Casper and Elizabeth (FLUKE) NEGLEY, natives of the same county. His father was born March 17, 1784, grew to manhood upon his father's farm, and followed farming all his life. He married Elizabeth FLUKE, of Pittsburg, and was the father of nine children, as follows: Mary A., who married Aaron REIMER; John F; Alexander W.; Magdalene F., who married David MOHLER; George B., deceased; Felix H.; Jacob L.; Casper S., and Daniel F. Casper NEGLEY died May 12, 1877, surviving his wife thirty-three years. The subject of this sketch received a common school education, was graduated at a commercial college, and afterwards embarked in merchandising at Pittsburg, remaining there four years. He was married April 7, 1857, to Mary A. SIMONS, a daughter of William SIMONS, of Allegheny county, and came to Butler county the same year. He purchased a farm in Penn township from John NEGLEY, upon which he has since resided. Six children were born of his marriage, as follows: Ada L., wife of Thomas M. GIBSON; Jennie G., wife of David W. LEFEVRE; Clara M., wife of Thomas L. DUFF; William C.; Felix Harry, and Homer D. The family are connected with the Methodist Episcopal church, in which Mr. NEGLEY has filled the offices of trustee and steward. September 3, 1864, he enlisted in Company D, Sixth Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, and was honorably discharged June 13, 1865. Politically, he is a Republican, and has been justice of the peace and overseer of the poor in Penn township.

JOHN R. SUTTON, was born in Penn township, Butler county, in 1824, where the SUTTON family settled in 1815. He received a common school education, and learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed the greater portion of his life. In 1851 he married Elizabeth MARTIN, a daughter of Richard MARTIN, of Summit township, to which union were born eight children, as follows: Daniel H.; Annie M., wife of Samuel FLEMMING; David B., deceased; William O.; Samuel M.; George M.; Mary J., wife of Milton J. GRAHAM, and Harry R. Mr. SUTTON died upon his homestead in Penn township, in August, 1889. His widow is still living in Penn township. He was a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, an adherent of the Democratic party.

AMOS MATES was born in 1812, in Washington county, Pennsylvania, close to the Allegheny line. His parents were from Berks county and of German extraction. He came to Butler county in 1840 and settled in Muddy Creek township (now Centre), and later removed to Penn township, where he died in 1880. Mr. MATES was married about 1839, to Mary A., daughter of John DERIMORE, of Muddy Creek township, to whom were born seven children: Mary, deceased; Sarah; Viola; Ann; W.J.; A.W., and James B. Mrs. MATES died [p. 918] in February, 1887. In politics, Mr. MATES was originally a Whig and afterwards a Republican.

JONAS HARTZELL was born in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, February 1, 1792, grew to maturity in his native county, learned the wagonmaker's trade, and also followed farming. He removed from Bucks county to Harmony, Butler county, lived in that village about eight years, engaged in wagon making, and then bought a farm in Jackson township, where the remainder of his days were spent. He married Mary HOUSEKEEPER, of Bucks county, and had a family of five children, as follows: Hannah, deceased wife of Jacob GOAS, of Beaver county; Jacob, and Eli, both deceased; Isaac, and George. Mr. HARTZELL and wife were members of the Lutheran church, and in politics, he was a Democrat.

JACOB HARTZELL, eldest son of Jonas and Mary HARTZELL, was born in Bucks county, March 19, 1817, was educated at a subscription school and was reared a farmer. He came to Butler county with his parents, where he met and married Jane E. BROWN, a daughter of John BROWN, of Middlesex township, March 17, 1850. Seven children were the fruits of this union, viz.: Jonas S.; Mary A.; Hannah, deceased; Nannie J., wife of Robert GARRAUX; Letitia N.; John B., and Lizzie M., wife of John GLASCOW. In 1854 Mr. HARTZELL purchased a farm in Penn township, where he has since resided. He is a member of the Lutheran church, and a Democrat in politics.

JONAS S. HARTZELL was born upon the Hartzell Homestead in Penn township, February 12, 1857, and has always been engaged in agricultural pursuits. He is the eldest son of Jacob and Jane E. HARTZELL, and grandson of Jonas HARTZELL. Mr. HARTZELL was married September 23, 1885, to Anna C. MAY, a daughter of Henry MAY, of Forward township, and has three children: Floyd R.; Charles R., and Mary E. Politically, he is a Democrat, and in religious faith, he is an adherent of the Presbyterian church.

SAMUEL RENFREW was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, and was a son of John RENFREW, a native of Renfrewshire, Paisley, Scotland, born in 1750. John RENFREW came to America about 1768, and served in the Continental army throughout the Revolution. He was a member of the Covenanter church, and died in that faith. After the War of Independence had closed, he settled near Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, erected a grist and saw mill, and carried on the milling and lumbering business the remainder of his life. He married Sarah RAY, and was the father of four sons and four daughters. Samuel grew to manhood in his native county, and upon his father's death succeeded to the mill property, which he conducted down to his death. The mill is still owned by a member of the Renfrew family. Samuel RENFREW married Hannah LINDSAY, who bore him a family of four sons, viz.: John; Robert; David A., and Samuel, all of whom are dead but David A. The parents were members of the Covenanter church, and were quite prominent in that denomination.

DAVID A. RENFREW, third son of Samuel and Hannah (LINDSAY) RENFREW, was born at Greenwood Mills, Franklin county, Pennsylvania, in 1817, was reared in his native county, and went into business with his father. In 1840 he came to Butler county and settled on Connoquenessing creek, in what is now Penn township. In 1844 he built a saw mill, and in 1868 a grist mill, which [p. 919] was the beginning of the present village of Renfrew, named in honor of its founder. Mr. RENFREW has been prominently identified with oil producing, and has several wells on his property. His original tract of 600 acres is now reduced to 200, which, however, is sufficient to support him in comfort the remainder of his life. In 1844 Mr. RENFREW married Mary KIRKPATRICK, of Armstrong county, where she was born in 1824. To this union have been born ten children, as follows: Samuel, who was killed in the Rebellion; Agnes J., wife of Samuel MELLON; Elizabeth, wife of Erastus LOGAN; John C., who married Lena CROWE; Robert, deceased; David, who married Susan WEBER; Hannah A., wife of John L. WALKER; Kesiah, wife of A.J. WHITE; Melissa, wife of John H. WALKER, and Maggie, wife of Simeon W. PHIPPS. Mr. RENFREW is one of the founders of the Covenanter church at Renfrew, and has been one of the principal supporters of that organization since the beginning.

H.S. McCLYMONDS, physician and surgeon, was born in Portersville, Butler county, Pennsylvania, February 8, 1857, son of James and Lydia (VANCE) McCLYMONDS. His father was born in Allegheny county, in 1816, of Scotch parentage, who came to America in the Eighteenth century. His mother was of Irish descent, and was born in Lawrence county, Pennsylvania. She died December 30, 1882. His father is still living at the age of seventy-nine years, and has spent his life in agricultural pursuits. Both were consistent members of the United Presbyterian church. They reared a family of ten children, nine of whom are living. The subject of this sketch was reared upon his father's farm, received his primary education in the common schools, afterwards attended the State Normal at Edinboro, and taught for several terms. He studied medicine with Dr. A.G. THOMAS, of Freeport, attended lectures at Miami Medical College, Cincinnati, Ohio, one term, and graduated at the Medical Department of the New York University, in March, 1883. He at once opened an office at Brownsdale, Butler county, where he continued to enjoy a good practice until 1892, when he removed to Renfrew and purchased the drug store of J.M. CALVERT, which he carries on in connection with his professional duties. Dr. McCLYMONDS is a member of Butler County Medical Association, also of the State Medical Society, and is one of the well known physicians of the county. He was married October 11, 1887, to Ida M. DOUTHETT, a daughter of Hon. D.B. DOUTHETT, of Forward township, and has two children: Bell V., and James D. Dr. McCLYMONDS and wife are members of the United Presbyterian church, and he is a liberal contributor towards that denomination.

DAVID L. KIRKPATRICK was born in Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, January 10, 1837, son of John L., and Nancy (LORIMER) KIRKPATRICK, and grandson of James KIRKPATRICK, a native of Scotland, who came to the United States at an early day and settled in Indiana county, Pennsylvania. During the last Indian war, James KIRKPATRICK had charge of a blockhouse for the protection of the inhabitants of his vicinity. He died at a very advanced age. John L., the father of our subject, was a farmer and carpenter, and died at the age of seventy-five years, and his wife Nancy, at the age of seventy years. They were the parents of the following children: James; Robert; Andrew; William; David L.; Mary; Elizabeth, and Harriet, all of whom grew to maturity. They were mem-[p. 920] bers of the Presbyterian church, in which faith they reared their family. The subject of this sketch was reared in his native county, attended the public schools of his district, and selected farming as his vocation. In 1850 he located upon a farm in Centre township, Butler county, where he followed agriculture for many years, and then retired to Renfrew. In 1862 he enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served in the army of the Potomac until 1863, when he was discharged because of disability through defective hearing. His brothers, Robert and William, were also soldiers in the Union army. Mr. KIRKPATRICK was married January 16, 1838, to Martha J. RAMSEY, a daughter of James and Elizabeth (MAXWELL) RAMSEY, of Armstrong county. Her grandfather Maxwell, was one of the first settlers in Centre township, Butler county. Seven children are the fruits of this union, as follows: William; Robert; Mary, wife of Lawrence McCANDLESS; John; Leslie; Gertrude, and Everett. Mr. KIRKPATRICK is a Republican, in politics, and both he and wife are members of the Presbyterian church.

ROSS M. BOWSER, lumber dealer and builder, was born in Valley township, Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, December 8, 1847, son of M.P. and Sarah (BAUM) BOWSER. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, of Dutch ancestry, a soldier in the Civil war, and a Democrat in politics. He was in the Seventy-eighth regiment, enlisting in the spring of 1862, and remaining in the service for three years. He served in many hard-fought battles, was captured and held a prisoner for some time, and is now living at the age of seventy-six years. His mother was also of Dutch extraction, and is living in Armstrong county at the age of seventy-one years. The subject of this sketch was reared a farmer. In February, 1871, he went into the coal business on the James MILFORD farm, near Parker's Landing. This business he afterwards sold out, and in 1884 came to Renfrew, and has since been engaged in the oil and lumber business, the firm now being known as R.M. Bowser & Son. He is also a part owner in several producing oil wells. Mr. BOWSER was married August 14, 1871, to Amanda R. ANTHONY. She was born July 4, 1849, and is a daughter of Benjamin and Susannah (ZIMMERMAN) ANTHONY. They are the parents of nine children, as follows: Hattie, deceased; Harry M., a member of the firm of R.M. Bowser & Son; Jessie M.; Lillian D., deceased; Milo F.; Flodia Z.; Harvey F.; Katie, deceased, and Alta E. Mr. BOWSER is an adherent of the Democratic party, and favors low taxes.

DAVID W. ROBERTS, proprietor of a livery stable at Renfrew, was born in Cardiganshire, Wales, July 5, 1834, son of Rev. William and Mary (DAVIS) ROBERTS. His father was a Baptist minister, came to the United States in 1861, was pastor of a church at Mineral Ridge, Ohio, for two years, and died at Youngstown, Ohio, in 1864, aged seventy years. His mother died in Wales, at the age of sixty-five. The subject of this sketch immigrated to the United States in September, 1855, and found employment in the mines at Pottsville, Pennsylvania, having been a miner and rolling mill quarryman in his native land. He worked in the mines at Pottsville for two years, then went to West Middlesex, where he worked as a miner one year, and thence to Youngstown, Ohio. He worked in a rolling mill in that city four years; and also at Sharon, Pennsylvania, and later [p. 921] was engaged in the grocery business at Youngstown for some time, whence he removed to Venango county in 1877. In 1882 he located at Renfrew, Butler county, and embarked in the livery business, which he still continues. He is also identified with the oil interests of his locality, and is a part owner of an oil well. Mr. ROBERTS was married, June 1, 1858, to Martha HOLLENBAUGH, to which union have been born seven children, as follows: Mary H.; David J.; Nicholas; Rebecca J.; Margaret M.; Isabel, and Myra E.

A.J. WHITE, oil producer, was born in Beaver county, Pennsylvania, May 10, 1846, son of David and Jane (EDWARDS) WHITE, the former a native of the same county, and the latter of Maryland. His paternal great-grandfather was the original settler on the site of Beaver Falls, coming from Down county, Ireland, to that point with his family. His grandfather was a native of Down county, Ireland, and came with his parents to Pennsylvania in childhood. His maternal grandfather was born in England, came to America with his wife soon after marriage, and settled in Maryland. His parents, David and Jane WHITE, are residents of Venango county, the former being now eighty-one years of age, and the latter seventy-six. David WHITE held the office of justice of the peace in his native town for twenty years. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm in Beaver county, but has been interested in oil producing for the last twenty years, the first ten of which he followed the business of a driller. He is interested in quite a number of producing wells, and claims to have been the first operator to put down a well in the Hundred Foot field. He is quite an extensive contractor in sinking wells, and superintending those which he puts down. Mr. WHITE was married to Martha HITCHCOCK, who bore him three children, two of whom survive: Effie Jane, wife of Elmer SHIDLER, and Ella. Mrs. WHITE died, and he subsequently married Ida Kesiah RENFREW, a daughter of David A. Renfrew. He is a Democrat, in politics, and an ardent supporter of that party.

DANIEL B. WHITE was born March 4, 1851, in Venango county, Pennsylvania, son of David and Jane (EDWARDS) WHITE, and a brother of A.J. WHITE of Renfrew. He was reared on a farm, attended the district schools, and subsequently learned the bricklayer's and plasterer's trades, which he followed for eight years as a journeyman. He then engaged in drilling oil wells, at which business he has since continued, being at present employed by his brother in putting down wells. He married Kate J. KENNEDY, a daughter of William KENNEDY, of Mechanicsville, Venango county, and has the following children: David, born March 19, 1874; Joseph J., March 2, 1877; Edward, February 2, 1879; Bertie, July 29, 1883; Ralph, July 2, 1886; Edgar, and Grace E., November 8, 1891. Mr. WHITE is an adherent of the Democratic party.

JOHN H. WALKER was born in Clearfield county, Pennsylvania, October 27, 1852, son of O.B. and Sarah (McLAUGHLIN) WALKER. His father was a carpenter, and the subject of this sketch learned that trade with him, and was a partner in the business of contracting and building for many years. Mr. WALKER came to Renfrew in 1887, where he has since been engaged at his trade, being one of the principal builders in the township. He was married March 15, 1882, to Melissa H., a daughter of David A. RENFREW, the founder of the village of Ren- [p. 922] frew. She was born March 22, 1862, and has two children: Olive R., born May 7, 1883, and Ethel G., April 18, 1885. Mr. WALKER is a Republican, in politics.

SIMEON W. PHIPPS was born in Clinton township, Venango county, Pennsylvania, October 22, 1851, son of Robert and Anna (CANAN) PHIPPS, pioneers of that county. He was reared upon the homestead farm, and received his education in the district schools. For more than twenty years he has been a contractor and driller in the oil fields of western Pennsylvania, and has an interest in several wells. He has put down a very large number of oil wells for different producers. Mr. PHIPPS married Maggie RENFREW, a daughter of David A. RENFREW, and has two children: Ida May, born in May, 1885, and David L., in October, 1887. Politically, Mr. PHIPPS is a Democrat. He is a member of the Masonic order.

ANDREW WATSON was born in Edinburg, Scotland, in 1843, son of Andrew and Mary (ROSS) WATSON. The family came to the United States in 1870. His father was a coal miner and contractor, and died in 1890, at the age of sixty-seven years. His mother survived until the age of seventy. Mr. WATSON came to Pennsylvania with his parents, and settled in Mercer county, where he engaged in coal mining, which he followed until 1878. He then went into the business of putting down oil wells, usually known as a driller, at which he has since been engaged, and is a part owner in some wells. He was married March 25, 1890, to Bell McKINNEY, a daughter of George McKINNEY, of Petrolia. He is a member of the I.O.O.F., and politically, he is an independent voter.

JOHN D. BARNHART, boilermaker, was born April 18, 1859, at Millerstown, Butler county, son of John B. and Hannah (McCOLLOUGH) BARNHART, of that borough. His father carried on a meat market and hotel at Millerstown, and was captain of a company in the Rebellion, serving throughout the war. He died in 1866, from the effects of disease contracted in the army. His widow married John SHOOK and is still living at the age of seventy years. The subject of this sketch learned the boilermaker's trade in Petrolia, and established his present shop at Renfrew, in 1889, where he has since carried on business. On September 1, 1887, he married Amelda MURPHY, born June 3, 1866, a daughter of Archibald M., and Jane (PISOR) MURPHY. Her father is a cooper and carpenter, and resides in Worth township, Butler county. Politically, Mr. BARNHART is a Republican.

HENRY J. VAN DYKE, boiler manufacturer, was born in Tompkins county, New York, September 27, 1843, son of H.J. and Hannah (WEBB) VAN DYKE. His father was a soldier in the War of 1812, was a farmer by occupation, and both he and wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He died at the age of sixty-five years. The subject of this sketch learned the boilermaker's trade, at which he worked as an apprentice and journeyman for ten years, subsequently carried on business at Petrolia, Butler county, for eight years, and in 1889 established his present shop at Renfrew, where he has since carried on the manufacture of boilers, etc. In 1863 he enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Seventy-seventh New York Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. He participated in the battles of Antietam, Gettysburg, Wilderness, and several other engagements, and was wounded at North Anna River, in the left side, [p. 923] by a splinter from a shell. In politics, he is a stanch Democrat, and is a member of the G.A.R. He married Ida McGLONE of Petrolia.

MILTON MILLER was born in Centre township, Butler county, Pennsylvania, September 30, 1854, son of Samuel and Julia Ann (CURRY) MILLER, natives of the same township. His father was a son of Michael MILLER, a pioneer of Butler county, and died October 17, 1892, at the age of seventy-five. His mother's parents were also pioneers of this county. Her father, Isaac CURRY, was a native of Ireland, and settled at an early day near Unionville, Centre township. He reared eight children, all of whom are dead. Their names are as follows: James C.; Robert; David; Isaac; Barbara; Julia Ann; Nancy, and Elizabeth. Mrs. MILLER died in July, 1865, aged forty-two years. Both she and husband were members of the United Presbyterian church. They were the parents of the following children: Henry J.; Maria J.; William C.; Mary M.; Harrison; Milton; Sabrina; Samuel S.; Ellsworth, and two that died in early youth. The subject of this sketch was reared in Centre township, and on November 15, 1877, was married to Rose SAILOR, a daughter of Peter and Hannah SAILOR. Her father was born in Germany, and her mother in Ohio. They are residents of Cranberry township, and are the parents of five children, as follows: Edward; Rose; Lincoln, deceased; Mary, wife of Ellis TERRILL, and Margaret, widow of Allen GALE. Mr. MILLER and wife have three children, viz.: Everett; Maud, and Gilbert. He first became interested in two oil wells in Concord township, about 1882, since which time he has been engaged in oil producing, and is now in partnership with his brother-in-law, Edward SAILOR, of Butler. They own several wells in Penn township, southeast of Renfrew. Politically, he is a Republican and is a member of the K.O.T.M.

WILLIAM THOMPSON, SR., was one of the first settlers of what is now Middlesex township, Butler county, where his descendants claim he located with his family as early as 1795. When he was a youth, it is said he was chased by a roving band of indians and took refuge in a deserted log cabin. While the savages were gathering wood with which to burn him out, he escaped unperceived through a rear window, and fled into the forest. On looking back he saw the Indians dancing around the burning cabin, which they supposed contained their prisoner. His wife's maiden name was Mary SANDERSON, and both were natives of the Cumberland valley, of Scotch-Irish extraction. Their first years in this country were full of promise, but the death of the husband and father early in the present century threw the burdens of the home and family upon the widow's shoulders. Their children were named as follows: Robert, who was captain of a company in the War of 1812, settled in what is now Clinton township, and there died; Jane, who married Jacob MECHLING, Jr., of Butler; John; William; Salina, who married John GILLILAND; Martha, who remained single, and James, who is well remembered as a distinguished lawyer, congressman and jurist. All have passed away, but many of their children and grandchildren are respected residents of the county.

CAPT. ROBERT THOMPSON, son of William THOMPSON, Sr., was born in 1789, and came to Butler county with his parents. He was twice married. His first wife was Mary COULTER, who bore him a family of three children, as follows: [p. 924] Ellen, who married Stephen BREWER; James C., and John. His second wife was Mary BROWN, who became the mother of five children: Margaret, who married William BREWER; William; Robert; Mary A., who married Joseph HENRY, and Catherine, who became the wife of John MONTGOMERY. Captain THOMPSON commanded a company in the War of 1812, and resided in Clinton township until his death, which occurred in 1879. His first wife died in 1825, and his second in 1881.

JAMES C. THOMPSON was born in Clinton township, Butler county, in 1824, and is the eldest son of Robert and Mary (COULTER) THOMPSON. After reaching manhood he purchased, in 1846, what is now known as the Thompson farm, in Middlesex township, settled upon it and died there in 1857. In February, 1851, he married Elizabeth J. GILLILAND, a daughter of Robert GILLILAND, of Middlesex township. Five children were the fruits of this marriage, as follows: Ephraim O.; Alphretta, wife of William McKIBBEN; Evaline; Margaret, and John, the last two of whom are dead. Mr. THOMPSON was a member of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was an adherent of the Republican party.

EPHRAIM O. THOMPSON, eldest son of James C. and Elizabeth J. THOMPSON, was born upon the homestead farm in Middlesex township, Butler county, February 7, 1852, received a common school education, and has always been engaged in agricultural pursuits, in which he has been highly successful. He was married June 22, 1875, to Elizabeth GOODWIN, a daughter of Thomas GOODWIN, and has four children: Elizabeth J.; James E.; Clara E., and Ephraim R. Politically, Mr. THOMPSON is a Republican, and is the assessor and collector of Middlesex township. Both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

JOHN THOMPSON was born in Middlesex township, Butler county, in 1795, son of William and Mary Thompson. He was reared upon a farm, and learned the hatter's trade, which he followed in connection with tilling his farm. He assisted in surveying Middlesex township, and was one of the well known citizens of pioneer days. He married Hettie DUNBAR, a daughter of Moses DUNBAR, of Middlesex township, and was the father of four children, as follows: William Ross, Mary J., wife of Samuel RILEY; Elizabeth, wife of Alfred RICHARDSON, and Harriet K., deceased. Mr. THOMPSON was a life-long member of the Presbyterian church, and was a trustee in that denomination. He took quite an active interest in public affairs, was first a Whig, and then a Republican, and filled at different periods most of the township offices. He died upon the old homestead, October 9, 1885; his widow resides with their son, William Ross.

WILLIAM ROSS THOMPSON was born upon the old homestead in Middlesex township, Butler county, August 22, 1844, and has spent his entire life in his native township. He resides upon the farm settled by his father, upon which he has eleven producing oil wells, and many others in process of going down. He is a trustee in the Presbyterian church, and is also the superintendent of the Sabbath school. Mr. THOMPSON is one of the enterprising and progressive farmers of his township, and always takes an active interest in public matters.

WILLIAM THOMPSON was born in Middlesex township, Butler county, Pennsylvania, in 1797, and was a son of William and Mary THOMPSON. He was reared upon the homestead farm, and learned the shoemaker's trade, which he [p. 925] followed in connection with agriculture. He married, in 1828, Mrs. RENISON, a daughter of Hugh GILLILAND, of Middlesex township, and was the father of the following children: James; Sarah B., who married Abel COMSTOCK; Harriet, who married William FLEMING; John; Robert G., who served in Company D, Eleventh Reserve; William S.; Hugh C., who served in Company E, One Hundred and Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers; one that died in infancy, and Kesiah E., who married James HARBISON. Mr. THOMPSON purchased the present homestead of Mrs. COLLINS, September 15, 1846, and resided upon it down to his death, September 5, 1883. His wife died March 5, 1881. They were members of the Presbyterian church, in which body he filled the office of trustee. In early life he was a Whig, and afterwards a Republican. He spent eighty-six years within the boundaries of Butler county, and endured all the privations and trials incident to pioneer life.

WILLIAM S. THOMPSON, fourth son of William THOMPSON, Jr., was born upon his father's farm, in Middlesex township, Butler county, in November, 1840, received a common school education, and has followed farming and oil producing. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, was mustered in at Harrisburg, then went to Camp Curtin, where he was promoted from first corporal to fifth sergeant. The regiment next went to Baltimore, and then to Washington, D.C., and afterwards to Fort Slemmer, where it remained until September. He was present in the battle of South Mountain, and also served at Antietam, thence returned to Washington City, where the regiment went into camp. Mr. THOMPSON was in the hospital at Washington for some time, whence he returned to his regiment, which went into winter quarters in November, 1862. The following January he was sent to Emery Hospital, where he was honorably discharged February 24, 1863, and returned to his home. He was married October 6, 1864, to Sarah D., a daughter of Capt. William SCOTT, of Bakerstown, killed at the battle of Fair Oaks. Six children have been born to this union, as follows: Etta M., wife of John V. WALTERS; William S.; Mary I., wife of Finley A. McINTOSH; Harriet O.; Leon A., and Sanderson D., the last three of whom are dead. Mr. THOMPSON is a member of the Presbyterian church, is a trustee in that body, and in politics, he is a Republican. He is also connected with the I.O.O.F., and the Jr. O.U.A.M., and is a member of Capt. William Scott Post, Number 470, G.A.R.

JAMES HARBISON was born in eastern Pennsylvania in 1771, and was one of the earliest settlers of Butler county. He learned the wheelwright's trade in Westmoreland county, and settled in Butler county in 1794-95, locating on a farm in what is now Middlesex township, known as the Harbison homestead. This farm he cleared and improved, building his cabin in the midst of the primitive forest, and enduring all the trials and privations of pioneer life. In 1797 he married Mary BROWN, daugher of George BROWN, of Middlesex township, to which union were born ten children, as follows: Matthew; Mary, who married David MOREHEAD; George; James; John; William; Robert; Margaret; Thompson, and Samuel, all of whom are dead with the exception of Robert, Margaret and Thompson. Mr. HARBISON and wife were members of the Seceder church, [p. 926] and in politics, he was an adherent of the Whig party. He died upon his farm in 1843; his widow survived him until 1866.

ROBERT HARBISON, oldest living child of James and Mary Harbison, was born upon his father's homestead in Middlesex township, Butler county, January 7, 1811. He grew to manhood surrounded by the usual scenes of pioneer life, assisting his parents in the duties of the farm. On June 29, 1840, he married Catherine SCOTT, a daughter of John SCOTT, of Allegheny county, and is the father of eight children: Sarah, deceased, who married John ALLISON; Mary; Margaret, who married William MILLER; Catherine, who married Abraham CUNNINGHAM; Ordelia, wife of William FLICK; Lyda; Robert, and one that died in early youth. Mr. HARBISON is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he is an unswerving Republican.

SAMUEL McBRIDE was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, in 1794, came to Butler county with his parents in 1796, and here grew to manhood. He was married in 1827, to Margaret J. BEERY, a daughter of Jacob BEERY, and they were the parents of eight children, as follows: Mary A., who married Thomas STEWART; John M.; Margaret J.; Frances M., who married Thomas DENNY; William B., deceased; Alabama, wife of William H. WEITZEL; Rebecca E., wife of Samuel LESLIE, and Elizabeth, deceased. Mr. McBRIDE followed farming in Middlesex township, and both he and wife spent their lives in this county, dying upon the old homestead. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, he was first a Whig, and afterwards a Republican. Their son William B., enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and died soon after the battle of Fredericksburg, from a fever. Their eldest son, John M. McBRIDE, was born upon the homestead, in Middlesex township, February 26, 1829, has always been engaged in farming, is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, is an adherent of the Republican party.

THOMAS PARK, SR., was born in eastern Pennsylvania in 1742, there grew to manhood, and learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed in connection with farming. He came to Butler county, late in the Eighteenth century and settled upon a farm in what is now Middlesex township, where he died in 1832. He was the father of eight children, as follows: John; David; Samuel; James; Thomas; Joseph, and two daughters, all of whom are dead. Mr. PARK was a member of the Presbyterian church, but he died at such an early day that few of the present generation remember him.

THOMAS PARK was born in eastern Pennsylvania in 1794, learned the blacksmith's trade and also engaged in farming. He came to Butler county with his father, and resided here until his death, in 1839. In 1817 he married Sarah B. SCOTT, whose parents were early settlers of Butler county, and was the father of seven children: James; John; William; Mary A., who married Wilson DAVID; Thomas; David, and Nancy J. Mrs. PARK died in 1844, surviving her husband five years. They were members of the Seceder church, and in politics, he was a Whig.

WILLIAM PARK was born upon his father's homestead in Middlesex township, Butler county, October 8, 1824, and was the third son of Thomas and [p. 927] Sarah B. PARK. His education was obtained in a subscription school, and his entire life was spent in agricultural pursuits. He married Clara A., a daughter of Jonas MORRISON, of Middlesex township, to which union were born eleven children, as follows: Albert; Harvey, deceased; William; James; Charles; Joseph, deceased; Harry; Elizabeth, wife of William ROSS; Margaret, wife of William MORROW; Nellie, and Harriet. Mr. PARK was a member of the United Presbyterian church, and was a trustee in that denomination for many years. In politics, he was a Democrat. He died June 1, 1894.

HARRY M. PARK was born upon the homestead farm in Middlesex township, Butler county, April 15, 1862, son of William and Clara A. PARK. He received a common school education, and has always been engaged in farming. On December 28, 1879, he married Cassie E. FULTON, a daughter of James B. FULTON, of Middlesex township, and is the father of three children: Howard R.; Ethel F., and Zella E. Politically, Mr. PARK is a Democrat, and is now filling the position of school director. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and a liberal supporter of that denomination.

JACOB FLICK was born in eastern Pennsylvania in 1721, grew to manhood in that part of the State, and served in the Revolutionary war. He married Miss Mary MATTHEWS, also a native of Pennsylvania, and settled in what is now Middlesex township, Butler county, in 1801, where he resided until his death, in 1809. His widow survived until 1843. They were the parents of eight children, all of whom are dead. Their names are as follows: George; John; Henry; Joseph; Elizabeth, who married William KENNEDY; Catherine, who married Thomas KENNEDY; Sarah, who married William LEEDOM, and Rachel, who married Samuel PHILLIPS. Mr. FLICK was one of the very earliest settlers of Butler county, and endured all the privations and dangers incident to that period.

HENRY FLICK was born upon the homestead farm, in what is now Middlesex township, Butler county, and was one of the first children born within the boundaries of the township. He grew to maturity inured to the hardships and trials of pioneer days, and did well his part in clearing and improving the country. About 1817 he married Mary SNYDER, a daughter of William SNYDER, of Middlesex township, to which union were born twelve children. Their names are as follows: George, and Nimrod, both deceased; Margaret, who married Menamee LIST; Jonathan; Barbara A., who married Daniel McELWAIN; Mary E., who married Edward HOLMES; Catherine, who became the wife of John MONTGOMERY; Jacob B.; Hiram; Rachel, who married James HEMPHILL; Sarah C., wife of Alexander CUNNINGHAM, and James S., deceased. Mr. FLICK died in 1853, and his widow, March 15, 1877. They were members of the Presbyterian church, in which he filled the office of trustee. In early days he was a Whig, remained faithful to the principles of that party down to his death, and occupied many of the minor positions in his township. He was a member of the State Militia, and a man of some local influence during the early days of the county's history.

JACOB B. FLICK was born April 9, 1833, upon his father's farm in Middlesex township, Butler county, received a common school education, and learned the blacksmith's trade, at which he worked for thirty-three years, in connection [p. 928] with farming. On September 13, 1855, he married Eliza A. CRINER, a daughter of John CRINER, of Middlesex township, who bore him three children: Alzina, Henry N., and Lily A., the last mentioned being the only survivor, and now the wife of William J. GILLESPIE. Mrs. FLICK died November 28, 1865. He was again married July 24, 1866, to Mary J. WALLING, a daughter of Carhart WALLING, of Franklin township. In 1858 Mr. FLICK purchased the John CRINER farm in Middlesex township, upon which he has since resided. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, has been a trustee and Sabbath school superintendent, and is now a member of the session. Politically, he is a Republican, and has been constable and collector of his township. Mr. FLICK is a descendant of one of the first settlers of western Pennsylvania.

ABSALOM MONKS, SR., was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, November 11, 1774, and was reared as a farmer in his native county. He served under General WAYNE in the Indian war from 1792 to 1795, and in the latter year settled in Pittsburg. He came to Butler county in 1801, purchased 212 acres of land in Middlesex township, in 1802, now known as the Monks farm, built a cabin thereon and commenced clearing and improving his purchase. He married Margaret BELL, who died without issue. On May 3, 1810, he married Catherine KENNEDY, a daughter of Martin KENNEDY, and the young couple took up their residence upon the farm which Monks had settled eight years before. Here they spent the remaining years of their lives, peacefully following agricultural pursuits. They were the parents of nine children, as follows: Rebecca, who married James EWING; Mary A., who married Joseph WILLIAMSON; Margaret, who became the wife of James MOREHEAD; Absalom; Catherine A.; Martin; Phoebe; Isabella, and John W., all of whom are dead with the exception of Absalom and Jonn W. Mr. Monks and wife were members of the Seceder church, and in politics, he was an adherent of the Whig party.

ABSALOM MONKS, son of Absalom and Catherine MONKS, was born upon the old homestead in Middlesex township, Butler county, October 5, 1817, grew up upon the farm, and worked at the blacksmith's trade and farming. He was married March 14, 1850, to Harriet CHANTLER, a daughter of Thomas CHANTLER, of Middlesex township, and is the father of six children, four of whom survive, as follows: Thomas; Martin; William J., and Catherine A., wife of Robert HARBISON. He is now the owner of the old homestead, upon which he has seven producing oil wells, and is one of the substantial farmers of the community. Mr. MONKS is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and is a trustee in that organization. He is an adherent of the Republican party.

MARTIN MONKS, second son of Absalom and Harriet MONKS, was born in Clinton township, Butler county, February 14, 1857, received a public school education, and is a farmer and oil producer, having now four producing wells upon his farm. On February 12, 1879, he married Cordella HICKEY, a daughter of Wendell HICKEY, of Middlesex township, and is the father of seven children: Luella B.; Warner S.; Martin R.; Sarah M.; Harriet; Albert, and Emery H. Mr. MONKS and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, he is a Republican.

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THOMAS TRIMBLE was born in the north of Ireland, grew to manhood in his native land, and immigrated to the United States in 1790. In 1807 he settled upon what is known as the Trimble farm, in Middlesex township, Butler county, where he resided until his death, in 1837. He was a member of the Seceder church, and in politics, he was an adherent of the Whig party. Mr. TRIMBLE was the father of five children, as follows: Mary; Margaret; Satia; Nancy, and Samuel. He has numerous descendants in this part of the State, many of whom are residents of Butler county.

SAMUEL TRIMBLE was born in Shippensville, Clarion county, Pennsylvania, in 1798, and was nine years old when his parents located in Butler county. He attended the little log school house of pioneer days, during the winter seasons, and grew up inured to the hardships incident to that period. He was married three times; first to Isabella THOMPSON, of Middlesex township, who became the mother of one son, Thomas. His second wife was Ellen C. BEERY, a daughter of Jacob BEERY, of Middlesex township, who bore him two children: Robert, and William F. His third wife was Elizabeth LOVE, of Clinton township, to which union four children were born, as follows: John H.; Thomas, who was a member of the Seventy-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and died from disease contracted in the service; James, and Margaret. Mr. TRIMBLE was a member of the Seceder church, was a Whig in politics, and belonged to the State Militia during his early manhood. He died April 10, 1855.

ROBERT TRIMBLE, eldest son of Samuel and Ellen C. (BEERY) TRIMBLE, was born in Middlesex township, Butler county, March 12, 1829, and received a meager education in the early schools of his neighborhood, attending the common school the first day it was legally opened under the common school law of 1834. He was reared upon his father's farm, and served four years' apprenticeship at the carpenter's trade with S.G. PURVIS, of Butler. He worked for Mr. PURVIS as a journeyman for several years, and also assisted in the erection of the court house, in 1855. In that year he located upon his present farm, where he has since resided, devoting his attention to agriculture. He was married April 14, 1857, to Eliza A. HAYS, a daughter of William M. HAYS, of Middlesex township, and has seven children, as follows: Samuel C.; Eliza J., wife of W.A. DENNY; Ruth E., wife of John TURNER; William H.; Margaret A.; Mary, and Martha. Mr. TRIMBLE is a Republican, has filled nearly all of the township offices, is a man of much influence in his community, and is well known throughout the county.

JOHN CRINER was born in eastern Pennsylvania, in April, 1787, was reared in his native county, and came to Butler county in 1815, where his mother purchased in that year the present Criner homestead, in Middlesex township. He married Nancy REED, who became the mother of the following children: Philip, deceased; James; Leslie; William, and John, both deceased; Satia A., wife of George SWEENEY; Margaret, wife of George W. PORTER; Mary, who married William HAZLETT, and Eliza A., deceased wife of Jacob B. Flick. Mr. CRINER died in 1871, and his widow in 1872. They were members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was a Whig in early life, and afterwards a Republican.

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WILLIAM CRINER was born on the old homestead farm in Middlesex township, Butler county, September 26, 1816, and was the fourth son of John and Nancy CRINER. He was reared a farmer, and received a meager education in the subscription schools of that period. In March, 1846, he married Lucinda PEARCE, a daughter of Francis PEARCE, of Butler county, and had one son, Wilson P. Mr. CRINER died in 1879; his widow resides with her son upon the old homestead farm. In politics, Mr. CRINER was a Republican, but gave little attention to political affairs, devoting his time to the cultivation of his farm.

WILSON P. CRINER was born in Cranberry township, Butler county, February 22, 1847, received a public school education, and learned the shoemaker's trade, which he followed in connection with agricultural pursuits. He married Isabella McKAY, a daughter of Alexander McKAY, of Butler county, to which union, six children have been born, as follows: Charles C.; Henry E.; Minnie P.; Aubrey S.; Irene B., and Mattie A. In politics, Mr. CRINER is a Republican, and has held the office of constable in his township. He is one of the enterprising farmers of his community.

JAMES CAMPBELL, SR., was a native of County Antrim, Ireland, of Scotch extraction, there married Margaret CONGEN, and in 1801, with his wife and three children, Margaret, Sarah and William, he immigrated to this country and settled near Kennet Square, Chester county, Pennsylvania. Here were born two sons and two daughters, viz.: James; Ellen; Hetty Jane, and Thompson. The father worked by the day, as he could find employment, until 1811, when the family moved to Lancaster county, and settled on a rented farm in Dunmore township. Here Margaret died in 1814. In 1818 the family moved to Washington county, and six years later to Allegheny county. In 1828 Mr. CAMPBELL purchased a farm in Middlesex township, Butler county, upon which he located the same year and began the work of making a home in the unbroken forest. Here he continued to reside until his death, January 6, 1836. His widow survived until 1843. They were strict Presbyterians, and among the respected people of the community. Their son William, who was engaged in merchandising at Pittsburg, died December 6, 1835, and Thompson, December 6, 1868. The latter was a prominent and able lawyer, and practiced his profession in Illinois for some years, where he became secretary of state, and also represented the Galena district in Congress. In 1852 he was appointed one of the United States land commissioners for California, and subsequently practiced law with great success in the San Francisco courts. Ellen, who married T.H. LYON, Died January 5, 1877, and Sarah, May 2, 1881. James, the last survivor of the family, was a leading merchant of Butler for a long period, and died in that borough November 16, 1886.

PHILIP SNYDER was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, in 1774, was reared in his native county, and came to Butler county in 1815. He purchased the WHITE farm, in what is now Middlesex township, consisting of 200 acres, which he cleared and improved. Before coming to this county he married Barbara CONKLE, a daughter of William CONKLE, of Lancaster county. Eleven children were the fruits of this union, as follows: Mary, who married Henry FLICK [p. 931] John; Michael; Elizabeth, who married Barney STEPP; Jacob; Margaret; Philip; Samuel; George; Barbara, wife of David M. DIBELL, and William. Mr. SNYDER died on his farm in 1850, and his wife in 1855. They were members of the Seceder church, and among the well remembered pioneers of the township.

WILLIAM SNYDER was born on the homestead farm, in Middlesex township, Butler county, March 22, 1822, and is the youngest in the family of Philip and Barbara SNYDER. He grew up upon his father's farm, following the usual routine of a farmer's life, and has never been engaged in any other vocation. He was married January 18, 1849, to Mary A., a daughter of John BROWN, of Middlesex township, and to this union have been born six children: Philip C.; John G.; Jennie E., wife of George STEPP; George M.; Barbara M., and William S., the last two of whom are dead. Mr. SNYDER is an adherent of the Republican party, and has been supervisor of his township for two terms.

SAMUEL CROOKS was a native of Derry county, Ireland, born about 1781, and came to Massachusetts about 1801, where he found employment in a paper mill. From there he came to Wilkinsburg, Allegheny county, and thence to Middlesex township, Butler county, where he engaged in farming. About 1827 he moved to the Rev. FRANCIS' farm, and afterwards purchased 100 acres of land near Glade Mills, from Oliver DAVID, where he died in 1866. About 1811 he married Miss Louisa PRIEST, of Massachusetts, who came with him to western Pennsylvania. They were the parents of ten children, as follows: James; Lily, who married Henry RUNYON, and after his death James McELWAIN; Jane, who married Stephen DUNBAR; Mary, who became the wife of James McCOLLUM; Margaret, who married Moses DUNBAR; John M.; William; Anna, who married Armstrong RENISON; Louisa, who married George LYON, and Susan, wife of Samuel NEWELL. Mr. CROOKS was a supporter of the Democratic party, and filled the office of school director for a number of years.

JOHN M. CROOKS was born in Middlesex township, Butler county, August 4, 1821, son of Samuel and Louisa CROOKS. He received his education in the common schools, and was reared upon his father's farm. In October, 1861, he enlisted in Company A, Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served under Gen. James S. NEGLEY and General WOODS. He was in the second day's fight at Shiloh, April 7, 1862, was then detailed to the baggage train from Shiloh to Corinth, and was fifty-two days on the march, siege and capture of Corinth. From there his command went to Bridgeport, Alabama, then camped on Mount Zuma, crossed the mountains, and participated in the battle of Chickamauga, where the regiment was badly cut up and forced to retreat to Chattanooga. It remained there two months, until the battle of Missionary Ridge, was then re-organized, and became a part of General SHERMAN's army. He took part in all of the battles up to Atlanta, was then sent to Nashville, and was honorably discharged at Kingston, Georgia, October 11, 1864. Returning to his home he resumed his farm duties, and has since continued in agricultural pursuits. In November, 1862, he married Martha J. SCOTT, a daughter of Thomas SCOTT, of Middlesex township, and is the father of the following children: Emma, deceased; Samuel; Ida, wife of Alfred KING, of Clearfield county; William; [p. 932] Edwin; Blanche, and Maud. Politically, Mr. CROOKS is a Republican, and has filled several of the minor offices in his township.

THOMAS ADAMS was a native of Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, born in 1817, and came with his parents to Middlesex township, Butler county, about 1827. He was reared in this township, and married Annie CRAWFORD, a daughter of John CRAWFORD, of Allegheny county, in 1856. They were the parents of two children: Mary J., deceased, and Joseph W. In 1861 Mr. Adams enlisted in Company K, Eighty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, under Colonel KIRBY, and served through the war. He was killed in the last battle of the Richmond campaign, immediately before the surrender of Lee. He was a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was a stanch Douglas Democrat.

JOSEPH W. ADAMS was born in Indiana county, Pennsylvania, October 18, 1861, was educated in the common schools and afterwards attended the Pittsburg High School, Duff's Commercial College, and Smith's Business College. He subsequently entered the State Normal School, at Edinboro, and then the Albany Law School, at Albany, New York, which completed his education. Mr. ADAMS was married June 3, 1879, to Theresa TWIFORD, a daughter of John TWIFORD, of Allegheny county, and has four children: Victoria; Sarah; Joseph, deceased, and Horace. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, he is a Republican.

JAMES D. HARBISON was born upon the Harbison homestead in Middlesex township, Butler county, received a common school education, and followed farming as a vocation. He married Kesiah E. THOMPSON, a daughter of William THOMPSON, of Middlesex township, in 1865. They are the parents of seven children, as follows: John T.; Cyrus L.; William J.; Jennie B., wife of Henry KNAUFF, of Middlesex township; Arthur F.; Leonard M., and Raleigh L. The parents are members of the United Presbyterian church, in which body Mr. HARBISON has filled the office of trustee. In politics, he is a Republican. He is now residing at Haviland, Allegheny county.

WILLIAM J. HARBISON, son of James D., and Kesiah E. HARBISON, was born upon the homestead in Middlesex township, Butler county, October 19, 1868. After receiving a public school education, he learned the carpenter's and painter's trades, which he followed in connection with farming. He has now charge of the old homestead, and devotes his attention to agriculture. On January 25, 1893, he married Ida M. MAIZLAND, a daughter of George MAIZLAND, of Clinton township. Politically, he is a Republican, and is a member of the United Presbyterian church.

FRIEND BUXTON was born in Washington county, Virginia, October 2, 1818, was reared in his native county, and learned the stonemason's and bricklayer's trades, also the cooper's trade. On November 3, 1840, he married Jane PARK, a daughter of James PARK, of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, and the following year the young couple came to Butler county, where Mr. BUXTON worked at his trade, in connection with farming, for about seventeen years. He then purchased the LYNN farm, in Middlesex township, in 1858, upon which he resided until his death, May 31, 1882. His widow resides upon the homestead farm with her son, Robert W. They were the parents of seven children, as follows: [p. 933] James; John, deceased; Robert W.; Martha J., wife of Andrew EKAS; Elizabeth D., wife of Charles DIETRICH; Melissa, wife of Christopher FREDLEY, and Rachel. Mr. BUXTON was a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was an adherent of the Democratic party.

ROBERT W. BUXTON was born upon the homestead farm, in Middlesex township, Butler county, May 11, 1846. He was reared upon the farm, and received a common school education. He has been twice married; first to Mary CARNAHAN, a daughter of John CARNAHAN, of Allegheny county, September 10, 1875, who bore him a family of four children: Charles; Eliza J., deceased; John, and Miller W. Mrs. BUXTON died January 22, 1882. His second wife was Mrs. Martha H. NORRIS, a daughter of Capt. G.W. HAYS, whom he married January 7, 1886. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church, is an elder in that denomination, has also filled the office of trustee, and is superintendent of the Sabbath school. In politics, he is a Prohibitionist.

ROBERT MILLER was born in Derry county, Ireland, July 1, 1802, was reared in his native land, and there learned the weaver's trade. In 1827 he immigrated to Philadelphia, where he resided for seven years, then came to Butler county, and purchased the McGOWAN farm in Middlesex township, containing sixty-seven acres. He resided upon this farm down to his death, which occurred February 7, 1891. Mr. MILLER was married about 1828, to Elizabeth BIGGER, a daughter of William BIGGER, of Philadelphia, to which union were born eleven children, six of whom grew to maturity, as follows: Joseph, deceased; William; Mary A., who married William J. WHITESIDE; Elizabeth, who married Henry SEFTON; Benjamin, deceased, and Robert J. The mother died in April 1884, some seven years before her husband. Mr. MILLER and wife were members of the United Presbyterian church, in which he held the offices of trustee and treasurer. In politics, he was successively a Whig and Republican, and filled the positions of overseer and township supervisor.

WILLIAM MILLER, eldest living son of Robert and Elizabeth MILLER, was born in Middlesex township, Butler county, July 10, 1839. He received a common school education, and was reared upon his father's farm. On December 22, 1864, he married Margaret A. HARBISON, a daughter of Robert HARBISON, of Middlesex township, to which union have been born fifteen children, as follows: Ida E., wife of James H. PARK; Clara C., wife of Thomas G. KENNEDY; Ora D., wife of William B. HENNIHAN; Sarah J., wife of George STEPP; Mary B., deceased; Annie M.; Robert W.; Benjamin C., deceased; Wilbert H.; Ardelia M.; Laura L.; Ella S.; Edna G.; Alvin C., and Erla E. In 1874 Mr. MILLER purchased the HYLE farm, in Middlesex township, containing ninety acres, upon which he now resides. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church and has filled the offices of trustee and treasurer in that organization. Politically, he is a Republican, and has been a member of the school board of his township.

JAMES KINGAN was born in eastern Pennsylvania in 1805, there grew to manhood and learned the bricklayer's trade. He afterwards removed to Pittsburg, and in 1840 he came to Butler county, and purchased a farm of 100 acres in Middlesex township. He resided upon this place until his death, in 1869. He married Ann E., a daughter of Adam MAHOOD, of Penn township, and to [p. 934] this union were born eight children: Elizabeth, deceased; Nancy J., wife of James FLICK; Samuel J.; Mary W.; Robert A.; James, deceased; Margaret S., and William, deceased. Mr. KINGAN was a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was an adherent of the Republican party.

SAMUEL J. KINGAN was born in Middlesex township, Butler county, April 6, 1853, son of James and Ann E. KINGAN. He received a common school education, and has resided upon a farm all his life. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and a supporter of the Republican party. Mr. KINGAN married Martha BLACK, a daughter of Robert BLACK, of Middlesex township, June 13, 1872. Six children are the fruits of this union, as follows: James E.; Maggie O.; Bessie J.; Clara G.; Lottie M., and one that died in early youth.

WILLIAM MARKS was born in Down county, Ireland, in 1819, and grew to manhood in his native land. About 1843 he immigrated to Philadelphia, where he married Eliza, a daughter of George WHITESIDE, of that city, and soon afterwards came to Butler county, and located on what is now known as the Ogden farm, in Middlesex township. He subsequently removed into Allegheny county, where he followed farming and stock-dealing until 1879, when he again came to Butler county, and resided here until 1883. In that year he returned to Allegheny county, and remained in that county until his death, in June, 1885. Nine children were born to William and Eliza MARKS, as follows: Mary A., wife of Samuel RANKIN; John, deceased; Eliza J., wife of William J. SHEPHERD, George, deceased; William J.; James; Robert A.; Sarah A., wife of Thomas MARSHALL, and Margaret L., wife of Dr. W.C. McCANDLESS. Mr. MARKS was a member of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was an adherent of the Republican party.

WILLIAM J. MARKS was born in Hampton township, Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, December 22, 1857, and is a son of William and Eliza MARKS. When thirteen years of age he went to work in a store, and has ever since been connected with merchandising. He is now located at Glade Mills, Butler county, where he is carrying on a general store. Mr. MARKS married Sadie J. STARR, a daughter of William STARR, of Concord township. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and one of the liberal supporters of that denomination. In politics, he has always been a Republican, has filled the offices of township treasurer and clerk, has represented his township in the county conventions for several years, and has been a very active participant in local political affairs. He is a member of the oil firm of McCandless & Marks, who have extensive territory in Middlesex township, known as the Glade Mills field.

DR. JOSIAH McCANDLESS was born in Centre township, Butler county, upon the old McCandless homestead, March 6, 1816, and was a son of William McCANDLESS, one of the early settlers of Centre township. He was educated at the Butler Academy, followed clerking in Ohio, commenced reading medicine with Dr. J. WHITTAKER, of Allegheny, under whom he studied three years, and located at Unionville, Butler county, in 1839. He practiced his profession in that locality until his death, which occurred January 5, 1875. Dr. McCANDLESS married Keziah, a daughter of John S. and Martha T. McCANDLESS, June 18, 1854. Ten children were born to this union, as follows: Everett S.; William [p. 935] C.; Josiah L.; Laura K., who married Robert KIRKPATRICK; Ada; Addison; Elmer; Quincy; Edith J., and one that died in infancy. The survivors of the family are William C., Josiah L., and Edith J. The parents were members of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, Dr. McCANDLESS was a Whig in early life, and afterwards a Republican. Throughout his long residence in Centre township, he enjoyed a very large practice, and was held in high esteem by the community at large.

WILLIAM C. McCANDLESS, physician and surgeon, was born on the homestead farm in Centre township, Butler county, October 6, 1857, and was reared beneath the parental roof. After receiving a public school education, he spent several years at Witherspoon Institute, subsequently attended school at Waynesburg, and at the National Normal School, Lebanon, Ohio. He commenced reading medicine with Dr. A.M. NEYMAN, of Butler, attended lectures for three years at Jefferson Medical College, and graduated from that institution in 1880. He opened an office at Glade Mills, where he has since continued in practice. Dr. McCANDLESS married Mary C., daughter of John GRUBBS, of Butler county, February 3, 1880. She died March 18, 1886, leaving three children: Josiah M.; Everett L., and Erla E. He was again married, July 31, 1887, to Lulu M., a daughter of William MARKS, who is the mother of two children: William P. and Ruth L. Dr. McCANDLESS is known as a great student, and since beginning practice he has built up a successful business. As a member of the firm of McCandless & Marks, he is an extensive oil operator, and has fine producing territory in Middlesex township.

JOHN FERGUSON was born in Pine township, Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, May 30, 1846, and is the eldest son of John and Mary Ferguson. His father was a native of Down county, Ireland, born in 1807, and married Mary DUFF. They were the parents of six children, as follows: Elizabeth, who married William YOUNG; Mary, who married William MARSHALL; Nancy, who married William Laughlin, and after his death William DOUGLASS; John; Jennie, wife of John SCOTT, and Thomas. Mr. FERGUSON resided in Allegheny county until his death, June 28, 1891. He was a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was a supporter of the Democratic party. The subject of this sketch grew to manhood upon his father's farm, and on September 15, 1868, he married Nancy E. CRAWFORD, a daughter of Robert CRAWFORD, of Allegheny county. Eight children have been born to this union, as follows: Harry; Robert; Mary M.; John; Emma E.; Thomas; Royal, and Clara. Mr. FERGUSON is a practical farmer, has taken advantage of all the improvements in modern machinery, and is one of the successful agriculturists of Middlesex township. Politically, he is a Republican, has filled the office of school director, and has been assistant auditor for three terms. He is a member of the Presbyterian church of Bakerstown, Allegheny county, and has been a trustee in that organization for fourteen years.

REV. DAVID T. McCALMONT, pastor of Glade Run United Presbyterian church, was born near Hickory, Washington county, Pennsylvania, September 6, 1860. His father, John McCALMONT, was a native of eastern Pennsylvania, where he was born August 18, 1818. John McCALMONT removed to Washington [p. 936] county with his parents when but eight years of age, there grew to manhood, and followed the vocation of farmer. On April 15, 1842, he married Miss Mary A. MOORE, a daughter of John MOORE, of Washington county. This union was blessed with eight children, as follows: Margaret N.; John H.; Samuel A.; James A.; William A.; Mary A., wife of John P. WHITE, of Washington county; Jennie E., wife of Robert G. JEFFREY of the same county, and David T. Mr. McCALMONT was a life-long member of the United Presbyterian church, was a man of enterprise and public spirit, and died March 10, 1893. The subject of this sketch received his primary education in the public schools of his native county, subsequently attended McDonald Academy, and Westminister College, New Wilmington, Lawrence county, and finally entered Allegheny Theological College. He was ordained June 29, 1890, but took charge of the Glade Run church May 18, of the same year, where he has since been engaged in the duties of the ministry. Mr. McCALMONT was married June 5, 1890, to Miss Leoline DONALDSON, a daughter of Jacob M. DONALDSON, of Washington county, and has two children: Howard D., and Mary Mildred. Since coming to Butler county he has won the respect and confidence of the people of this community, and stands well both as a citizen and a minister of the gospel.

JOHN B. MAHAN was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, February 5, 1818, son of Robert Mahan, a native of Cumberland county, born in 1791. His father was a soldier in the War of 1812, and in 1816 he married Sallie BARR, a daughter of John BARR, of Westmoreland county, who bore him a family of six children, as follows: John B.; Eliza, who married Robert CRAWFORD; Mary J., who became the wife of Archibald GLASGOW; Sarah A., who married Samuel DICKSON; Robert A., and William A. The parents were members of the United Presbyterian church. The subject of this sketch was reared upon his father's farm, received his schooling in one of the pioneer schools of the neighborhood, and has always followed agricultural pursuits. On March 2, 1843, he married Sarah J. DICKSON, a daughter of John DICKSON, of Allegheny county, to which union were born the following children: Robert H.; Lida, wife of Samuel EKAS; Randall R.; Shaffer, and Sarah J., wife of Wilson COOPER. In 1864 Mr. MAHAN purchased 150 acres of land in Middlesex township, Butler county, upon which he has since resided. His wife died in 1875, and in 1877 he married Mrs. Huldah A. GREER, a daughter of William DUNNING, of Washington county. She had one son by her first marriage, John W. GREER. Mr. MAHAN has been an elder in the United Presbyterian church for the past forty-four years. In politics, he is a Republican, and has filled the offices of school director and supervisor.

SHAFFER MAHAN was born in Allegheny county, April 18, 1859, and is the third son of John B. and Sarah J. MAHAN. He received a common school education, and has spent his life upon a farm. On June 18, 1879, he was married to Annie BURTNER, a daughter of William BURTNER, of Clinton township, and is the father of the following children: William J.; Samuel S., deceased; Sarah J.; John G.; Harper, and Floyd. Mr. MAHAN is a member of the United Presbyterian church, and is an adherent of the Republican party.

RANDALL ROSS MAHAN, son of John B. and Sarah J. (DICKSON) MAHAN, was born in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, November 10, 1854, received a [p. 937] common school education, and has followed agricultural pursuits up to the present. He was married April 10, 1878, to Mary A. CHANTLER, a daughter of Thomas CHANTLER, of Middlesex township, and has six children: John E.; Sarah E.; Thomas C.; Ida B.; Charles R., and Howard D. In politics, Mr. MAHAN is a Republican, and is inspector of elections in his township. Both he and wife are members of the United Presbyterian church.

WILLIAM A. MAHAN, youngest in the family of Robert and Sallie MAHAN, was born in Pine township, Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, October 4, 1836, where his parents had removed from Westmoreland county. He was reared upon his father's farm and received a common school education. He was married December 10, 1857, to Nancy FULTON, a daughter of Samuel FULTON, of Middlesex township. Ten children have been the fruits of this union, as follows: Robert J.; Samuel F.; Sarah J., who married James FRAZIER; James A.; Nancy B., wife of William HAY; William B., deceased; Annie, who married Lafayette KELLY; Eliza E., wife of Charles A. KLINGENSMITH; Jessie H., wife of Stephen S. DONALDSON, and Wilda. Mr. MAHAN came to Butler county, in November, 1871, and purchased a portion of the FULTON farm in Middlesex township, where he still resides. He has two producing wells upon his farm, from which he receives a good income. Mr. MAHAN and wife are members of the United Presbyterian church, in which body he has filled the position of trustee. He is a Republican in politics, and has filled the offices of school director and supervisor in Middlesex township.

HAMILTON GILLESPIE was a native of Butler township, Butler county, born May 15, 1817, was reared upon a farm, and learned the hatter's trade. In March, 1843, he married Demans GRAY, a daughter of William GRAY, of Connoquenessing township, and settled in Whitestown, where he resided until his death, January 13, 1892. The following children were born to this union: Julia A., who married Arthur HILLMAN; Hiram; William J.; Alexander W.; Mary; Catherine, who married Robert THOMPSON; Emma, and Alva H. Mr. GILLESPIE was a member of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was first a Whig and afterwards a Republican.

WILLIAM J. GILLISPIE, son of Hamilton GILLESPIE, was born in Connoquenessing township, Butler county, April 21, 1847, and was reared upon the homestead farm. In September, 1864, he enlisted in Company B, Sixth Pennsylvania Artillery, was sent to Fort Ethan Allen, then to Washington, D.C., and next did guard duty on the Orange and Alexandria railroad, whence he returned to Fort Ethan Allen, and was honorably discharged June 13, 1865. On January 15, 1879, Mr. GILLESPIE married Lily A. FLICK, daughter of Jacob B. FLICK, of Middlesex township. Seven children are the fruits of this union, as follows: Eliza A.; Hiram G.; Henry A.K.; Sarah M.; Alice M.; Jacob F., and Maude. Mr. GILLESPIE has followed merchandising for several years at Flick, and is the postmaster of that office, which was named in honor of his father-in-law.

ADAM NEWELL was born in eastern Pennsylvania, received a common school education, and learned the cooper's trade. He came to Butler county some years after reaching his maturity, and settled in Middlesex township, where he died in 1859. He was twice married. By his first marriage he was the father of five [p. 938] children: Birchard; James; Suly, who married David LIST; Mary, who married a Mr. POWELL, and Sarah J. His second wife was Christina BUTLER, who became the mother of seven children: Elizabeth, wife of Patterson GRUBBS; Samuel; William; David; Matilda, wife of John MESSENGER; Maria, wife of John McDONALD, and John, who was drowned in youth. Mrs. NEWELL died in 1879, surviving her husband twenty years. He was a member of the Presbyterian church, and in politics, was a supporter of the Democratic party.

DAVID NEWELL, third son of Adam and Christina NEWELL, was born in Middlesex township, Butler county, July 4, 1846. He was reared in his native township and has always been engaged in farming. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was mustered in at Camp Reynolds. Proceeding to Washington, D.C., the regiment joined the army of the Potomac, and he participated in the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, and several skirmishes, and was honorably discharged in June, 1863. He re-enlisted the following September, in the Sixth Pennsylvania Artillery, was sent to Fort Marcy, at the chain bridge, thence to Culpeper Court House, and then returned to Fort Marcy, where the battery remained until the close of the war. He was discharged from the service at Harrisburg, July 2, 1865. Returning to his home he resumed his farm duties. He was married August 16, 1869, to Caroline, a daughter of Moses DUNBAR. In 1879 he purchased the James McCOLLUM farm, in Middlesex township, upon which he has since resided. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and is an adherent of the Democratic party.

JOHN FREDLEY was born in Troy Hill, Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, in April, 1821, son of Jacob FREDLEY, a native of Switzerland. His father was a carpenter, and followed that business in Allegheny county until his death, in 1832. His mother was Marie NESSER, whom by her marriage to Jacob FREDLEY, became the mother of six children, as follows: Jacob; Susan, who married Thomas BLACK; Catherine, who married James SWEENEY; John; Marie, deceased, and Daniel. Mrs. FREDLEY died in 1851. Both she and husband were members of the Presbyterian church. The subject of this sketch was reared in Allegheny county, where he worked at coal mining until 1859, and then came to Butler county, and purchased the WELSH farm, in Jefferson township. He resided upon that farm for six years, when he bought the KENNEDY farm, consisting of seventy-five acres, upon which he has since lived. Mr. FREDLEY married Catherine McGINTY, a daughter of Barney McGINTY, of Armstrong county, who died soon afterwards, and he next married Mary LUTY, a daughter of Rudolph LUTY, of Allegheny county. To this marriage were born eleven children: Catherine; Joseph, and John, all of whom are dead; Christopher; Daniel; William; Mary A., wife of John RITMAN; Sarah E., wife of William SNYDER; Jacob, and two that died in early youth. Mrs. FREDLEY died, and he married Mary J. McMILLEN, a daughter of William McMILLEN, of Harrisville, Butler county, in 1884. He and wife are members of the United Presbyterian church, and in politics, he is a Democrat. In September, 1864, Mr. FREDLEY enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, joined the army at Petersburg, served in that battle, and in the closing scenes around Richmond down to the surrender of [p. 939] Lee. He was discharged at Harrisburg, June 6, 1865, and returned to his home, where he has since been engaged in agricultural pursuits.

DAVID M. DIBELL was born in Plum township, Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, January 29, 1822, son of Michael and Hannah (METZGER) DIBELL. His maternal grandfather, Conrad METZGER, came to America from Germany with his parents when four years old, and at the age of sixteen years enlisted in the Continental army and served through the Revolutionary war. He settled in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, afterwards moved to Wayne county, Ohio, and bought a farm, upon which he passed the remainder of his life, dying at the remarkable age of 103 years. His eyesight continued unimpared to the last, and he never wore glasses. He was married three times, and reared the following children: Polly; David, and Hannah, by first wife; Michael, by second; and James; John; William; Betsy; Peggie, and Peter, by third. Michael DIBELL, Sr., was born in Allegheny county in 1789, grew to manhood there, and learned the weaver's and cooper's trades, which he followed in connection with farming. By his marriage to Hannah METZGER, he was the father of seven children, as follows: John; James; Mary; David M.; Margaret, who married George ANDERSON; Nancy, and Jacob. The mother died in 1831, and in 1840 he married Jennie KEARNS, who bore him one son, George. The parents were members of the United Presbyterian church, and died in that faith. The subject of this sketch grew to maturity in Allegheny county, and there learned the carpenter's trade. While working at his trade, he injured one of his hands so severely as to necessitate amputation, and he then engaged in farming. He came to Butler county in 1864, purchased the BROWN farm in Middlesex township, and has since resided upon it. He married Barbara, a daughter of Philip SNYDER, September 3, 1863. Both he and wife are members of the United Presbyterian church, and politically, he is a Republican.

JACOB REIBER was born in Goeningen, Wurtemberg, Germany, May 4, 1818, and is the eldest son of Jacob REIBER, a native of the same place, born in 1788. His father was a dealer in fruit and seed, and married Barbara HAUBESAUK, a daughter of George HAUBESAUK, in 1813. The following children were born to this union: Barbara, who married John SIMMER; Margaret; Jacob; Mary, who married Jacob STETSELL, and Mrs. John METZGAR. The parents died in 1832. The subject of this sketch learned the baker's trade in his native land, immigrated to New York city in 1834, and remained there for fifteen years. He then came to Brady's Bend, Armstrong county, carried on blacksmithing at that point for nearly two years, and next removed to Summit township, Butler county, where he conducted a store and blacksmith shop, also a hotel and farm. He afterwards purchased the McGILL farm, in Middlesex township, which he sold, and then bought the Dr. BLACKWOOD farm upon which he has since lived. In February, 1840, he married Catherine SIMMER, a daughter of John SIMMER. She died in December, 1841, leaving one son, John. He was again married October 15, 1842, to Elizabeth MARVIN, of New York, to which union nine children have been born, as follows: William M.; George W.; Emma, who married William PHILLIPS, and afterwards Alexander McMILLAN; Rebecca, [p. 940] deceased wife of W.P. ROESSING; Albert S.; Julia, deceased; Charles W., Elizabeth D., wife of Michael F. KNAUFF, and Harry A.

FREDERICK SWARTZ was born in Germany, in 1822, came to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in early youth, where he resided for some years, subsequently spent four years in Ohio, and then located in Allegheny City. He learned the carpenter's trade, and followed that occupation. In 1865 he removed to Butler county, and located on the Carner farm. He was married in February 20, 1845, to Sophia CARNER, a daughter of John CARNER, of Middlesex township, who resided upon the farm where our subject now lives. Ten children were born to this union, as follows: Louisa, who married Frank SCHRADER; Charles A.; Augustus M.; Mary E., and Christian, both deceased; John L., Luella M., wife of George MILLER; Clara E., wife of William BAILEY; Annie F., wife of William WECHTER, and William F. Mr. SCHWARTZ was a member of the Church of God, and in politics, he was a Republican. He died in Allegheny, February 17, 1891. His widow resides upon the homestead.

JOHN RIFLEY, SR., was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, about 1807, there grew to maturity and learned the carpenter's trade. About 1830 he married Barbara SPHAR, a daughter of John SPHAR, to which union were born the following children: Nicholas; Elizabeth, who was twice married, first to Daniel DEER, and afterwards to Abraham SMITH; John; Jacob, and Frederick. Early in 1847, the family immigrated to the United States, where the father died the same year in Butler county, Pennsylvania. His widow survived him until 1879.

JOHN RIFLEY, son of John and Barbara RIFLEY, was born in Switzerland, March 11, 1838, and came with his parents to the United States in the spring of 1847. After arriving at manhood, in 1858, he went to Pittsfield, Pike county, Illinois, where he was naturalized, and cast his first vote for president in 1860. He remained in Illinois four years, and then returned to Butler county and took charge of the homestead farm during the war, his three brothers being in the service of the Union. Jacob was wounded at the battle of Cold Harbor, was sent to Annapolis Hospital, and then to Pittsburg, whence he returned to the front and served until the close of the war. Mr. RIFLEY was married May 25, 1865, to Mary A. LYON, a daughter of John LYON, of Penn township, to which union have been born the following children: William H.; John A.; Thomas H.; George H.; Etta M., wife of Russell HAYS, of Adams township. Mr. RIFLEY purchased the HALEY farm, in Middlesex township, consisting of seventy acres, upon which he now resides. In politics, he is a Democrat, and has held the office of supervisor of his township.

NICHOLAS RIFLEY was born in Switzerland, and came to the United States with his family in 1847. He was a carpenter by trade. After the breaking out of the Rebellion he enlisted in the Union army and served through the war. He married Laura BARCLAY, February 23, 1860. She became the mother of five sons, as follows: John A.; Harry E.; George B.; William H., and Robert E., all of whom except George now reside in Minnesota and the State of Washington. Mr. RIFLEY was killed July 8, 1869, while working at his trade. His widow died March 8, 1876.

[p. 941]

JOSEPH CROFT was a native of England, born about 1786, grew to manhood in his native land, and there learned the carpenter's trade. In 1813 he was married to Mary HUMPHREY, a daughter of Henry HUMPHREY, of England, to which union were born eight children, as follows: Frederick; Fannie; Francis; Lewis; Emma, who married William NESBIT; Lewis; William, and Joseph. In 1820 Mr. CROFT and family immigrated to Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, and then removed to New Castle, Lawrence county, whence they came to Butler county. He died here in 1831; his wife survived until June 26, 1854.

LEWIS CROFT was born in Beaver county, Pennsylvania, May 12, 1821, and is the fourth son of Joseph and Mary CROFT. He was reared beneath the parental roof, and on December 18, 1849, he married Mary J. McHENRY, a daughter of John McHENRY, of Middle Lancaster, Butler county. They are the parents of three children: James A.; Sarah J., wife of George RASLEY, of Middlesex township, and Mary E., wife of William JACK, of the same township. For over twenty years Mr. CROFT has been a steward in the Methodist Episcopal church, to which denomination he has belonged nearly all his life. Politically, he is a Republican, and has been a school director in his township for twelve years.

JAMES A. CROFT was born in Cranberry township, Butler county, October 22, 1850, received a common school education, and has always followed farming. He was married December 12, 1874, to Mary HENRY, a daughter of Joseph HENRY, of Butler township, and is the father of seven children, as follows: Minnie B.; John Nelson; Lewis M.; Joseph M.; two that died in infancy, and Albert C. Joseph M., and Albert C., are the only survivors.

THOMAS BAILEY was born in Nottingham, England, July 16, 1832, and came to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1848, being then only sixteen years old. After arriving at maturity he embarked in the hotel and restaurant business on Smithfield street in that city, which he conducted for many years. In 1873 he purchased the William CROOKS farm, in Middlesex township, Butler county, and settled upon it. He died soon afterwards, his death occurring March 21, 1873. In 1850 he married Hannah BEASLEY, a daughter of John BEASLEY, of Cedar Grove, Indiana. They became the parents of seven children, as follows: Robert, deceased; John W.; George; Thomas; Samuel R.; William, and Joshua. Mr. BAILEY was a member of the Episcopal church, and a very worthy citizen. His widow resides upon the old homestead in Middlesex township. Samuel R. BAILEY was born in the city of Pittsburg, August 28, 1858, and received his education at the public schools, and Beaver Seminary. There are several good producing wells on the homestead farm.

JOHN W. BURTON was born in Rostraver township, Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, July 4, 1822, and is a son of Benjamin BURTON, one of the early settlers of Westmoreland county. His father was a native of Down county, Ireland, and came with his parents to the United States in early youth. They located in Rostraver township, Westmoreland county, where he grew to manhood, and married Martha WALLACE. Eight children were the fruits of this union: Joseph; Mary, who married James T. WOLF; John ,; Margaret, who married Thomas S. WOLF, Hetty; Sarah, who married James DYE; Hannah; Elizabeth, who mar- [p. 942] ried George W. DOWER. Benjamin BURTON died January 9, 1839; his widow survived until May 7, 1889. They were members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. The subject of this sketch learned the carpenter's trade and worked in the town of Washington about twenty years, then removed to Allegheny county and settled on a farm. In 1882 he located in Middlesex township, Butler county, where he purchased the CRAIG farm of fifty-four acres, and has since resided upon it. Mr. BURTON was married June 3, 1852, to Rebecca, a daughter of John ALGEO, of Mt. Pleasant township, Washington county, and has seven children: Benjamin P.; John L.; Jennie A.; Grace; McNary; David C., and Harry R. Mr. BURTON and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, he is a Democrat.

BENJAMIN P. BURTON, eldest in the family of John W. and Rebecca BURTON, was born in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, August 18, 1854, and has always followed farming as a vocation. He came to Butler county with his father in 1882, and purchased a part of the BOYLE farm, in Middlesex township, where he now lives. He married Sarah GRABE, a daughter of Andrew GRABE, of Clinton township, and has four children: John A.; Frank G.; Vernie, and Verbie. Politically, he is a Democrat, but takes no active part in public affairs.

MATTHEW MOORE was born in Donegal county, Ireland, in November, 1808, and was a son of Matthew MOORE, a native of the same county, who immigrated to Canada in 1809, and settled in Haldeman county, where he died in 1853. Matthew MOORE, Sr., was the father of five children: Matthew; Dennis; John; Margaret, who married Wellington WILSON, and Ann. The mother died in 1841. Both were members of the Catholic church, in which faith they lived and died. The subject of this sketch was reared upon his father's farm, and in 1838 he married Mary A. VOSBURG, a daughter of Martin VOSBURG, of Connecticut. Fifteen children were born to this union, eleven of whom grew to maturity, as follows: Cynthia, wife of Thomas ROBBINS; Sophrona, who married Thomas CRAYSTON; Martin V.; Thomas; Bradford; Elizabeth; Henrietta, who married Harry BROSS; Byron; George; Margaret M., and Ada M.

MARTIN V. MOORE was born in Haldeman county, Canada, October 6, 1843, received a common school education, and was reared upon the homestead farm. In 1864 he came to the United States, and located at Petroleum Centre, Venango county, Pennsylvania, where he embarked in the oil business. Since that time he has followed oil producing, with the exception of four years when engaged in the hotel business in Cattaraugus county, New York, and is now located in the Gold district, Butler county. Mr. MOORE has been twice married; first to Sarah FLANNIGAN, a daughter of F.C. FLANNIGAN, of Westmoreland county, January 22, 1871. Two children were the fruits of this union: Abby, wife of Alexander WILLIAMS, and Frank, who died at two years of age. Mrs. MOORE died in 1876, and he was again married November 17, 1879, to Elizabeth FITZGERALD, a daughter of Thomas FITZGERALD, of Union City, Pennsylvania. Four children were born of this marriage, as follows: Flora; Fidelia; Kent, and Martin. Mr. MOORE is an adherent of the Republican party, and in religious faith, he is a Protestant.

[p. 943]

WILLIAM J. DAVIS was born in Wales, in June, 1824, and there learned the stonemason's and bricklayer's trades. About 1847 he married Miss Susannah VOYLE, a native of the same country, and in 1851 they immigrated to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, where they remained two years. They then removed to Brady's Bend, Armstrong county, where Mr. DAVIS followed his trade, and thence to Queenstown, and continued to reside at that place until 1883. In that year the family removed to East Brady, Clarion county, where Mrs. DAVIS died, August 3, 1891. Mr. DAVIS, while in Queenstown, embarked in the oil business, but has now retired from active life, and is spending his declining years in East Brady. Sixteen children were born to William J. and Susannah DAVIS, as follows: Reese; William; Anna, deceased wife of John MELDRUM; Mary, deceased; Philip; Morgan; James; Jeffrey; John; David; Russell; Mackworth; Mary; Charles; Annie, and one that died in early youth.

WILLIAM DAVIS, JR., son of William J. DAVIS, was born in Wales, August 2, 1849, and came with his parents to the United States in 1851. Before reaching manhood, he learned the stonemason's and bricklayer's trades with his father, and continued to work at that business until 1874. He then engaged in oil producing at Queenstown, Pennsylvania, and has followed it ever since, as have also his nine brothers. He was married November 15, 1877, to Margaret A. WILLIAMS, a daughter of James WILLIAMS, of Brady's Bend. They are the parents of five children: Harry W.; Arthur G.; Florence M.; Annie L., and Mary E. Mr. DAVIS and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics, he is a Republican. He has five producing wells in the Gold oil field, Middlesex township, and three wells in the Hickey field.

JEFFREY DAVIS, eighth in the family of William J. DAVIS, was born at Queenstown, Armstrong county, August 31, 1858, received a common school education, and has followed the oil business since boyhood. He is now in partnership with his brothers, and is one of the well known producers of Middlesex township. Mr. DAVIS was married July 12, 1889, to Sarah N. MOORE, a daughter of Robert MOORE, of Tarentum, Allegheny county. In politics, he is a Republican, but takes no active interest in political matters.

LEVI R. McFANN, son of Johathan McFANN, was born in Waynesburg, Greene county, Pennsylvania, July 3, 1839. He obtained a common school education, and afterwards was engaged as a salesman in a general store at Waynesburg. In 1865 he went to Pittsburg, and traveled for the wholesale tobacco house of Steppe & Kennedy. In 1867 he located in business at Oil City, as a manufacturer and dealer in tobacco. In 1868 he started a branch at Pleasantville, Venango county, also one on the RENN farm and at Parker City. He finally quit the business, and went into oil operating at Gas City, whence he removed to Fairview, Butler county, in 1872. He afterwards operated at Greece City and Buena Vista, and has followed the oil developments in Butler county ever since. In the spring of 1893 he moved to the Thompson oil field, started a grocery store, and has since carried on that business. The same year McFANN postoffice was established, named in honor of our subject, of which he has since been postmaster. Mr. McFANN was married February 15, 1870, to Mary MORRIS, a daughter of George MORRIS, of Washington [p. 944] township, to which union have been born nine children, as follows: Maggie M., wife of William D. ARMOUR, of McDonald; George W.; Ida A.; Harry H.; Charles, deceased; Carrie V.; Mary S.; Levi R., and Helen B. Although independent in politics, Mr. McFANN has always been quite active in political affairs, and has filled the office of justice of the peace, and other minor positions. He is a member of Tent, Number 96, K.O.T.M., of Renfrew, and also of the I.O.O.F. He served as second lieutenant of Company H, One Hundred and Twenty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, and during his term of service was in the battles of South Mountain, Antietam, and Fredericksburg.

JOSEPH HAYS was born upon the old Hays homestead in Adams township, Butler county, about the year 1820, and received his education in a pioneer subscription school. He was reared to farm life, afterwards kept a store for several years, and then returned to agriculture, which he followed the balance of his life, dying January 1, 1891. He married Mary A. McCANDLESS, a daughter of John McCANDLESS, of Butler county, and was the father of five children, as follows: Evert R.; Elizabeth A., and John, both deceased; Joseph W., and Mary A., wife of James CASHDOLLAR. Mrs. HAYS died in 1866. Both were members of the Untied Presbyterian church, and in politics, he was a Whig, in early days, and afterwards a Republican.

EVERT R. HAYS, son of Joseph and Mary A. HAYS, was born upon his father's farm in Adams township, Butler county, and has always been engaged in farm pursuits. In March, 1893, he purchased the RAMSEY farm, in Middlesex township, consisting of fifty-eight acres, where he now resides. Mr. HAYS has traveled extensively through Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, Michigan, Indiana, and West Virginia, and has also followed steamboating on the Ohio river. Politically, he is a Republican, and in religious belief, he is an adherent of the United Presbyterian church.

[End of Chapter 71-3 (pgs.910-944) - 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]

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Updated: 23 Oct 2000, 20:03