iv. f WHISER MONUMENT UNDER AUSPICES OF Boai'd of Trade of I(eading. ■>^~e«^ LIFE AND TIMES OF CONEAD WEISER, THE FIRST REPRESENTATIVE MAN OF BERKS COUNTY, BY MORTON L MONTGOMERY. READING, PA.: Chas. F. Haagk, Printer, Seventh and Court Streets. C. K, WHITNER & SON )f« 42 Perm Street, ri NNOUNCE that their preparations for Fall and /^A Winter, 1893, have been conducted on an extensive scale. The Goods are now dis- played in their well-equipped room, and are ready for inspection. Silks, Black Goo(^, Colored Dress Goods, Ladies' and Children's Cloaks, Blankets, Comfortables, Table Linens, Napkins, Towels, Flannels, ^•> Canton Flannels, I Tickings, Sheetings, Shirtings, Muslins, Prints, Ginghams, Underwear, Hosier}-, Gloves, Handkerchiefs, Ribbons, Notions, Gents' Furnishinofs, 'Dress Trimmings, Laces, etc., etc. In our basement you will find anything you wish for the kitchen and dining room. You will find lowest prices with us consistent with the goods we handle. C. K. WHITNER & SON. H 442 and 444 PKNN ST. *******;» * T * * n^HE<<- BOX ******** * N * * THE LEADING AND LARGEST - - MILLINERY STORE IN THE STATE. Ladies, if you wish good wear- ing, honest, stylish millinery ; If you want full value for your money ; If you want becoming Hats ; GO TO THE RELIABLE AND BEST PLACE, • • (^^//' IIMI I 436 Penn Street, READING, PA. nnuininwmHu^ i F. F. BRESSLER, I Bflar'hie and ^ml?, Wor^l^?, OPPOSITE POST OFFICE BUILDING, Nos. 513 to 517 WASHINGTON ST., READING, PA. #■' YITALIZGD SIR Teeth extracted without pain by the use of Vitalized Air made fresh every day of such a combination of ingredients tliat render it perfectly safe and harmless to all who are put under its influence. Young and old can take it. Children three years old can take it. Recommended bv physicians. Cheapest Dentist in Readino:. Whole Sets of Teeth, '$4.00, $4.50, $4.75, and $5.00. Old Sets repaired while you wait. Telephone 1403. 35 South 6th St., READING, PA. l^lUMUIUtHMIItUIIIIMaiMUIHIttl»UIIUU»IMaitMaill»MI*MI»IIHII»IHll»UIHIHaUlltiailH»«H»»ll»HMHIUHIu||aia,Mt Magazines and Weekly Papers Pronnptly Delivered. Cards— Prang's. Line In Season. WE WANT YOUR TRADE. WALTER G. ROLAND, Wholesale and Retail Bssl^selleF^ D* 6abi§^eF, 625 Penn Street, READING, PENNA — '—^ — ^""llfe^ ! Mabie, Todd &, Bard s Celebrated <5^ I Gold Pens, Ete. Blank Books a Specialty. EXAMINE OUR STOCK. GRAVE OF CONRAD WEISER near Womelsdorf, Berks County, Pa., as it appeared in June, 1S93. WEISER MONUMENT UNDER AUSPICES OF Board of Tirade of I(eading. LIFE AND TIMES OF mUD WEISER, THE FIRST REPRESENTATIVE MAN" OF BERKS COUNTY, BY MORTON L MONTGOMERY. II READING, PA.: Chas. F. Haage, Printer, Seventh and Court Streets. ARTIFICIAL TEETH, This establishment never permits any imperfect or iinsatis- factorj' work to leave the place. A specialty is made of artificial teeth with or without plates, the latter process being termed '•bridge work" and is a magnificent representation of what has become possible in skillful dentistry, and to do this work the dentist must be an artist. Thousands of jieople are annually impo.sed upon by inferior work. The mere fact of putting artificial leeth on a plate fitted to the mouth, is but a small part of what constitutes a good set of teeth. The dentist of skill and taste will not be satisfied unless thi' teeth in size, shape and expression represent the temperament, physiognomy and general appearance of the individual, AND THE PATIENT SHOULD LEAVE THE DENTIST JUDUE WHAT IS MOST SUITABLE. The Albany Dental Association employs only the most skilUid artists in all departments and guarantees absolutely satisfactory work at a moderate i^rice. People wishing artificial teeth can visit their place in the mdrning, and wear the teeth home the same night. ' a mi)nument to the memory of CONRAD WEISER, at Reading, in Berks County, Pennsylvania. Morton L. Montgomery, Esq., the author of the "History of Berks County," during the past two years, delivered a lecture upon this distinguished historical character in the several sec- tions of Berks County before different societies, but mostly, how- ever, before local Teachers' Institutes at the request of Prof. ^Villiam M. Zechman, the County Superintendent of common schools of Berks County. All those who heard the lecture were not only pleased with the earnest and successful manner in which the subject was presented to them, but expressed surprise that such a great man had lived so prominently in the early history of the County and yet was almost wliolly unknown to the people. Conrad \Yeiser being the "First Representative Man of Berks County," and also the first man of business and enterprise at Reading, the Board of Trade invited Mr. Montgomery to deliver this lecture before the members at a regular meeting on Thurs- day evening, June 1, 1893; and acquiescing in the suggestion that a monument should be erected to his memory- as well to typifj^ the strong German element in this communitj-, as to signalize his important services in the development of the political and so- cial welfare of Berks County, the matter was referred to the Com- mittee on Municipal Atfairs, for the purpose of formulating a plan by which the project for a monument could be successfully' car- ried out. The Committee on Municipal Affairs met at the office of Mr. Montgomery several times and determined that the lecture should be printed and circulated in order to properly introduce the sub- ject to the peojale throughout the county, and in a quiet but for- cible way lead them uf) to a just appreciation of the undertak- ing. Three thousand copies of this pamphlet are accordingly dis- immu ms THE GREATEST j^ Is the well-established ^ WHOLESALE AND RETAIL STORE OF THE-V-— o o o MANUFACTURING CO., 641 Penn St.. READING, PA. TXTHEY are enterprising young men and well ®|^e deserve the patronage they receive from the public at large. Their aim is to satisfy and please everyone. They have the LARGEST STOCK OF READY-MADE PANTS in the State, from which they are selling retail AT WHOLESALE PRICES, giving the CONSUMER the benefit of the retailer's profit. Their stock of Piece Goods for Suits and Pants made to ORDER cannot be equaled. They make All-Wool Suits to order for $10, $12, $13, and upwards. Pants to order from $2..')0 to $6.00, guaranteed in every respect. They employ from 75 to 80 hands all the year around, buy their goods direct from the mills, whereby they save the jobber's profit, which gives them all the advantages that can be obtained in the manufacturing business, and enables them to undersell any others in their line. WHEN IN NEED OF ANY CLOTHING, -CALL ON THE- I^eading panls^ jyianufactsuring Co., PENN STREET, Q 41 READING, PA. tributed amongst a larg-e number of influential men throughout the county of Berks. They are requested to carefully read the lecture, and then ask their friends and neighbors to do likewise. The Committee expresses the earnest hope that the people generally will in this way come to look upon the project with favor, and contribute such sums as will enable the Board op Trade to erect a monument that will be an honor to a devoted public servant, and a credit to the community which he faithfully served. The frontispiece is a correct likeness of Conrad Weiser's grave — situated in Heidelberg township about half a mile east of Womelsdorf near the turnpike in an orchard on the Sheetz farm— as it appeared in June, 1893. The photo-engraving is from a fine photograph by Edward Hafer, photographer, of R(»ading, taken expressly for this publication. The Board op Trade appreciates the kindness of those busi- ness people at Reading who encouraged this publication by intro- ducing their advertisements, for, thereby, they facilitated its un- dertaking in making known the project for a monument to a recognized prototype of the German emigrants, whose descendants in Berks and the surrounding counties constitute to a large degree the basis of social energy, economy and stability in this extensive and flourishing section of Pennsylvania. COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS, James P. Sellers, Chairman. Jerome L. Bover, President, Cyrus T. Fox, Secretary, Board of Trade of Reading. Reading, September, 1893. « pEI(AL B00I^BIWDE[( ! -!!^^-^-^^ -Jt> ^v"- «■*> -CV^ -W- -*- IMPROVED RULING MACHINE USED BY CHAS, F. HELLER IN THE MANUFACTURE OF HIS CELEBRATED FLAT-OPENING BLANK BOOK. -^ -!/X- -!«• -«> -iji- -i»- -i}l- -SIS- -i*.* 'A- -A" -* -4}^ ^ -^- -y^ Binding of Magazines in neat styles, Toe. per vol. and upwards. Special attention paid to Binding of Art Works and Sub- scription Books. Sunday Scliool Libraries repaired in good style at reasonable prices. H^^^Samples of all kinds can be seen at theoftice. Office open every evening until 8 o'cloclv. No. 634 WASHINGTON STREET. TEI.EI»HOI»«E 3932. LIFE MD TIMES OF CONRSD WEISER. Lecture as read by Morton L. Montgomery, Esq., before tlu' Board of Trade at a regular meeting on June 1, 1893. lOGRAPHY is an important study. The actions and accomplishments of prominent men who have been identified with the development of a community, or with the social movements of a State or Nation, form the basis of history, and a precise story of them, whether written or spoken, is not only very pleasing but highly entertaining and instructive. Men and women of distinction in different periods of history have been selected by writers and orators upon whom to base biography and oration. The practice has been carried on from the beginning of speech and literature until now, and it will continue until mankind and language shall have passed away. It is common for the lecturer and the orator to select a prominent character who lived in a distant land many years ago, and filled an important position in political, or religious, or industrial aftairs, and so directed his actions as to have brought about change, revolution or death in the afifairs of man. #*■■ A Woiid to fshe Wi^e i^ ^ufficiEni /'' / #■ / #* #' / *' *' *' *' \ TO KNOW HERE To buy the - - best article for the least money Is of great - - value to every Housekeeper I The dealEr that buys the hEauiEst, carries the largest stack, and knau/s hnw tn buy law. If his trade is the largest in his line in the city, gnu can safelg depend he gives the henefit of his experience tn his customers, If gnu wish to Rnd the largest stack of CARPETS, OIL CLOTHS, WIND O W SHADES, LACE and CHENILLE CURTAINS, RUGS, MATS, SWEEPERS, in all the i/erg latest designs and patterns, gnu must go ta the leading Carpet House, (qlage \ Lichtenttiaeler, 408 PENN ST., READING. PA. m ■■" "■""" f WEISER LECTURE. 5 In the case of Conrad Weiser, I have left the usual path. I have remained here in the county of Berks for my subject. And what have I found? A hero — a conqueror — a genius? I have found a man who was more than a hero of battles — a leader who was more than a conqueror of nations — a guide w4io was more than a genius in understanding and controlling the mysteries of the world. He w^as born at a time when the rulers of political and religious affairs in Western Europe directed all their energy against the natural development of the people, and regarded their own ag- grandizement of more importance than the general welfare ; and he was brought up under the terrors of invasion, the horrors of carnage, and the discourage- ments of impending devastation and death. These were influences that w^ere sutficient to exhaust his vi- tality, crush his hopes, and blast his ambition ; but he survived them all and became, under the Providence of God, a man of high impulses, passing away eventually with a record of noble deeds in the interest of peace and progress, just after the County of Berks had been organized as an important factor in the annals of Pennsylvania. 3 PALATINATE AND PENNSYLVANIA COMPARED IN THE 17tH CENTURY. Condition of the Palatinate. — During the 17th century the inhabitants of Germany, especially along the bor- ders of France and Switzerland, suffered persecution, losses and death beyond description. We can hardly believe it possible that the rulers, professing openly the doctrines of the Christian religion, were so extremely cruel to their fellow-beings as to be without charity or XH h Hive. Dry Goods, Notions, Hosiery, Fancy Goods, Cloaks, &c., WHOLESALE AND RETAIL. J. MOULD & CO., 64:7 and 649 Penn St. WEISER LECTURE. forbearance. The losses Avhich they occasioned to lite and property cannot be estimated — the number of lives running into hundreds of thousands, and the value of propert}' into millions of dollars. It 'can readily be imagined that the condition of the people was truly intolerable ; and being unable to remedy the wrongs and outrages that were repeatedly perpetrated upon them, whether by appeals to the government, or by fervent prayers to God, they had only one avenue of escape, short of death, and that was by emigration. Character of People. — The Palatinates were good peo- ple and experienced workmen in all kinds of trades and occupations. By their labor and skill they had in va- rious ways improved the value of the several sections where they resided, and their productions yielded di- rectly and indirectly great revenues to the Government and the Church. One would suppose that they might be detained and preserved on this account if on no other, and that every inducement might be held out to per- suade them to remain and multiply their families and their possessions. But nothing could hold them. The spirit of emigration had seized them and it swept them from their native hills and valleys by the thousand. Edict of Nantes. — In eastern France the movement began about 1666. At that time there were two million Huguenots, and they constituted some of the best and most thrifty people in the country. But during the next fifty years fully one-half were forced to abandon their homes. This was caused by the persecutions growing out of the Edict of Nantes which was issued in 1598 by King Henry IV of France. This Edict was issued apparently to favor the followers of Calvin, but finding their hopes for dominion and equality not re- alized, they showed dissatisfaction with its provisions, r — ARTIST AND PHOTOGRAPHER, 433i PENN ST., READING, PA. WEISER LECTURE. and then the King revoked it to reduce them to noth- ing. The force and influence of these persecutions ex- tended across the borders ot France, through Alsace and Lorraine into and beyond the Palatinate. The people throughout the territorj^ on both sides of the Rhine for miles came to be influenced by a common impulse for religious toleration and personal freedom. So strong was the feeling that 30,000 inhabitants emi- grated in a body. At different times from 1688 to 1707, the French entered Wurtemberg and annihilated whole towns and villages with fire and- sword. Where they found an improved country, possessed by a thriv- ing people, they left abandoned valleys with death and destruction in their tracks. Condition oj Pennsylvania. — Three thousand miles to the west, across the Atlantic Ocean, in a stretch of primeval country along the Delaware, about a hundred miles from the sea, (then commonly known as New Sweden, and subsequently called Pennsylvania) the con- dition of the inhabitants and their prospects were just the opposite of those in the Palatinate. They had no persecutions to bear, and were permitted to exercise religious freedom according to the dictates of their own consciences. They were encouraged to establish settle- ments, and do all they could towards permanent im- provements. A spirit of peace prevailed, excepting such social and political disturbances as were incident to the change ot government from the Swedes to the Dutch, and from the Dutch to the English, for a period of thirty years. There was no edict over them from ruler or priest, indeed, not even a dread of political provisions or religious persecutions of any kind. They were expected to labor, make themselves useful, and develop the natural resources of the country. This *-;s^^ESTA3LISHED 1840.«^5«£f-* # OI,D RELIABLE STABLGS MORRIS R. BOYER, Manager. No. 532 Cherry St. Hij Rear of City Hotel, READING, PA. Telephone 124-2. Everything for Hire known to the Trade. hotopaphic Requisites (I () () () I) () () t) ^ m AMATEURS. -COMPLETE ASSORTMENT OF- CAMERAS, RUBY LANTERNS, CHEMICALS, TRAYS, PRINTING FRAMES, FLASH LAMPS, DRY PLATES, SENSITIZED PAPERS, AND VERY CHEAP. ^MsGURDY & DURHAM^* 16 SOUTH FIFTH STREET. '/^■■■■■■■■■■■iiiniiMiHiiHiuniMiHUBHUumiimnnniiiiiiiHiiiiititiiiiiiiitii WEISER LECTURE. they did with remarkable courao:e and ener2:y, and as a natural consequence their population and possessions multiplied rapidly. While the Edict of Xantes was operating directly and indirectly to crush the spirits of the German peo- ple along the Rhine, the Swedes, Dutch and English were building up promising settlements along the Del- aware ; and by the time that the Edict was revoked in 1685, William Penn had come to own the Province of Pennsylvania, and to establish a liberal form of govern- ment for the regulation of its affairs. The contrast* accordingly, between the condition of things then along the Rhine and that along the Delaware was wonderful. Superior Destiny of Emigrants. — Hence the destiny of the two locations under widely different influences dur- ing the succeeding century carried the people here to results far superior to those in the Palatinate. The grandchildren of those that remained there were still under the same form of government with no rights or privileges in directing or controlling the course of events ; but the grandchildren of those that left found themselves free agents, constituting the very founda- tion of representative government. There the people occupied the land, but they possessed no rights of per- son or property which the rulers or priests were bound to respect. Here the Indians, as the first occupants, enjoyed certain vested rights. These William Penn respected, notwithstanding a comprehensive charter to him from King Charles the Second of England, and he taught all men to practice the sublime precept of doing unto others as they would be done by. In the midst of the enervating condition of the Pal- atinates just described on the one hand, and while the emigrants to Pennsylvania were being inspired with •«> OVERCOATS! For the past fifteen years we have made the manufacture of overcoats a specialty. That our eflorts are appreciated by the public is shown in our aunnall}' increasing sales. This season we can truthfully boast of the largest and finest assortment of Fall and Winter overcoats we have ever yet made. In Fall overcoats we have a choice line of Meltons, Kerseys and Worsteds — all elegantly trimmed, and made up in the newest styles. In Winter overcoats we have a large assortment of Chinchillas, Far Beavers, heavy Kerseys and Diagonals. The storm overcoat is quite popular. It is an excel- lent garment for rough and cold weather. We have them in plain and fancj' styles. If you contemplate the purchase of an overcoat, please remember that we are Headquarters for Overcoats. Cor. 8th and Penn Streets, READINa. PA, AVEISER LECTURE. 9 the prospects of peace, equalitj', justice and freedom ou the other, the subject of our remarks dawns in the his- tory of passing events. BOYHOOD OF CONRAD WEISER FROM 1696 TO 1717. Birth and Parentage. — Conrad Weiser was born No- vember 2, 1696, in the Duchy of Wurtemberg, at a vil- lage called AiFstaedt, in the County of Herrenberg, Now, nearly two hundred years afterward, Aftstaedt is still a village with a population numbering about 450 ; the county 35,000, and the Duchy (similar to our State) about 2,000,000. His parents and grandparents lived there during the devastating wars and persecutions of the 17th century. For generations they bore exactions and sufferings of various kinds without flinching. They had a natural love for their homes along and in the vicinity of the Rhine, and through its influence they held on with matchless devotion and indescribable heroism. All the surrounding features were dear to them — the buildings where they were born and reared — the valleys and hills where they labored and obtained sustenance — the churches and schools where thej^ were educated and brought from fear, darkness and ignorance into hope, light and knowledge. Faith of Progenitors. — With associations such as these, in spite of discouragements and losses, even death, they could not entertain thoughts of leaving. The faculty of faith was developed in them to an unusual degree, and their feelings created physical conditions and spir- itual sentiments 'which were transmitted to succeeding generations. We can therefore say that Conrad Weiser W. R. HENNINGER. H. W. SCHICK. O. J. HERTWIG. HEWW1(3EI(, ^M\ ™ HEl^TWllj, o o *i*S* Manufacturers and Dealers in i%r^ itHi --{•-- ^, <{;. ^ ^{^ ^ ^ ^ i i i i BEDDING AND UPHOLSTERY, 819 and 821 Penn Street, ^sicRKADING, PA. FACTORY, 818 COURT STREET. TELEPHONE CONNECTION. WEISER LECTURE. 10 possessed these conditions and sentiments by inheri- tance, and that he grew up with them as his progenitors had grown up before him. Sentiment for Liberty. — During his infancy and early youth the social customs and practices of his parents still prevailed. There was apparently no progress in these respects. In that period of his life he was what they had been in a similar period. But if there was no change in the customs or practices, there had come to be a change in the sentiments of the people in refer- ence to the enjoyment of life, of liberty and of property. With persecutions continuing and no redress promised or hoped for, the people in and about the Palatinate were at last found moving in the direction of the flow- ing waters of the Rhine to the North Sea. The benevolent spirit of Queen Anne of England had created in their hearts a desire for personal freedom and religious toleration, and the kindred spirit of William Penn had also inclined them to consider his generous oifers of land in the Province of Pennsylvani i. Thousands and tens of thousands of the friends, neigh- bors and countrymen of Conrad Weiser's father were in the great social movement of emigration, and in this movement by the year 1709, his father had also deter- mined to follow. Emigration in 1709. — -We may well wonder how he came to survive the cruel invasions of the French, and their costly devastations and persecutions. By his in- fluence, he collected a colony of 4000 Germans from the vicinity of Gross Anspach, and, in June, with his family (comprising eight children and himself,) he led this colony away from the terrors of war into the bless- ings of peace. In this family was Conrad Weiser, then nearly thirteen years of age. ■*s JOHN B. RASER, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL ID I^TJ(3 C3- 1 ST, 154 & 156 N. 6th St,, READING, PA., Has constantly un hand a full line of everything that goes to make up a first-class DRUG STORE, such as S "cR H ^fa^' > 1^ si -- cc.g ,x -^ ^ ^ OJ Ol -^ t> 5^ /- CO ^' ti ^ o ^ - - S '-' "^ ^ ^::S =^1 t"" Best in the City. Special attention given to COMPOUNDING PRESCRIPTIONS ACCURATELY. Headquarters for Art- ists' and Wax Flower Materials, Caustic Soda or Salt Potash for Making Soap. Remember the PLACE. LafjestDfug Establishment in Reaig, COR. 6TH AND WALNUT STS. WEISER LECTURE. 11 So it was that these Christian, hopeful, determined people left the Palatinate, first followinoj the Rhine, then crossing the lower North Sea and landing in Eng. land along the Thames river near London, after a try ing journey of two months. Transportation not hav- ing been immediately provided, they were detained until the necessary preparations could be made for so large a body of emigrants at one time. While thus waiting, there were five chiefs of the Mohawk tribe at London on a visit to the Queen, and they, hearing of the Palatinates, volunteered to set apart certain lands in the Mohawk Valley in New York, if the Queen should direct them to be taken thither. Their deten- tion having been quite expensive to the Queen, she willingly accepted the proposition, and about Christ- mas, 1709, hired ten ships to carry them across the wide expanse of waters to their destination. Landed at New York. — After a long and perilous voyage, they reached New York on June 17, 1710, whence the,y were taken up the Hudson River to a point at and about what is now known as Newberg. They believed that this was the place to which they had been kindly invited by the Mohawk chiefs ; but it was not. In reality there were seven settlements, and each settlement was under the control of a commis- sioner who was appointed by the Governor of New York. In that locality, still seventy-five miles from the Mohawk Valley, this hopeful colony of Palatinates was set to burning tar and cultivating hemp under the belief that they were working for themselves. hnpositions on Palatinates. — After the lapse of several years, and after the lands had begun to show marked improvement, they discovered however that their pos- ON" EASY PAYMENTS: FURNITURE, CARPETS, STOVES, CHINAWARE, DRY GOODS, LADIES' CLOAKS, CLOTHING, BABY CARRIAGES, REFRIGERATORS, ETC., ETC. Each Line in Separate Department, and in charge of Special Salesmen and Salesladies. GATELY & BRITTON, Limited, Reading, Pa. WEISER LECTURE. 12 sessions and earnings were claimed and appropriated towards satisfying the expenses incurred in carrying them across the sea ; and learning for the first time that the}' had been deceived and that they were em- ployed as slaves, they raised loud complaints. In doing 80, they were urged by strong reasons ; for they had been told that their passage was to be free of expense to them, and that the lands which they were directed to occup}^ were to be a gift or grant without cost of any kind. Having from the start been under the gen- eral guidance and protection of Conrad Weiser's father, they naturally looked to him with confidence for their rescue. And they did not look in vain. Settlement in Schoharie. — In the Spring of 1713, they sent seven deputies, under the lead of Conrad's father, to the Mohawk Indians, to ascertain if they would not be permitted to settle on lands at and about Schoharie — a place situated some forty miles to the west of Albany. While the negotiations were going on, the colonists appeared, so eager were they to get beyond the reach of the grasping commissioners. In the fol- lowing November, the Indians executed a release of their interests in certain lands for the sum of $300, and one hundred and fifty German families settled in that famous valley. Being industrious, economical and per- severing, they, in a few years, succeeded in building up prosperous villages, which came to be named after their leaders, as Weisersdorf, Brunnersdorf, Gerlachsdorf, Hartmansdorf and Schmidtsdorf. The progeny of these German emigrants afterward adopted the same custom in Berks County, for towns came to be laid out in the Tulpehocken Valley and similarly named, as Womels- dorf, Stouchsburg, Wohleberstown, Strausstown, Rehr- ersburg and Schaefferstown. ^niillliHllHliniiiaiiiiiiiii iiiiiiiii ■•■■■■■■■■■■■■•i ■■■■iiii ■ iiiiiiiiiniiiiiniiiaiiiHiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiHMI^ UIe salicit your trade and feel cnnfidEnt that by our quality of u/nrk we will hs TEongnizEd as fit ExponEnts of ths highs st attainmEnts in nur linE, UlritE far EstimatEs. REMDING UiaOIJ CUT CO, Life with the Indians. — In the negotiations for the land, Conrad's father made the acquaintance of an In- dian chief, named Quagnant, and after his family had settled there the chief made a visit to him. During this visit the chief manifested a fondness for Conrad which led him to ask Conrad's father to permit the son to accompany him to his village. About the beginning of Winter in 1713, when seventeen years old, at his father's request, Conrad accompanied the Indian chief, and these are his own words in describing his ex- perience : '• I endured a great deal of cold in m}- situation, and by Spring my hunger far surpassed the cold, although I had poor clothing. The Indians were often so intoxicated that for fear of being mur- dered I hid myself among the bushes. During the latter end of July, I returned to fat herefrom my Indian home. I had acquired a tillerable beginning, and, in fact, understood the greater part of the Maqua tongue." This was certainly a most wonderful experience, and he must have possessed more than an ordinary share of courage, good sense and forbearance, otherwis.e he could not have remained through the Winter and Spring, (the most trying seasons of the year) with a race of people so entirely difierent from the Germans. Amongst them he was commonly known by the name of Tarachawagon. First Experience as Interpreter. — In this short time Conrad came to understand the Indians thoroughly, and after returning home, his ability was called into use as interpreter and preserver of the peace. He de- scribes his introductory efforts as follows : "About one English mile from my father's dwelling, a few families of the Maqua tribe resided, and a number of that Nation often passed to and fro on their hunting expeditions. It fre- quently happened that disputes arose between the high-mettled Germans and members of that tawny Nation. On such occasions I was immediately sent for, to interpret for both parties. I had a good deal of business but no pay. None of my people understood their language, excejiting myself, and by exertion I became per- fect, considering my age and circumstances." LEWIS KREMP, President. JESSE G. HAVVLEV, Vice-President. G. B. STEVENS, Secretary. JOSEPH P. KREMP, Treasurer and General Manager. GEORGE POHLIG, Brewery Superintendent. •-^s*^ B R E NAf' E R Y : <^5*^-!- Cor. Ninth and Laurel Streets, Reading, Pa. tip CD c^ Capacity, 35,000 Barrels of Beer of Three Nlonthis' Age. OLD STYLE LAGER BEER, TILL "Durvi vivirvixjs bibamus." With an apparent aptitude for an undertakinsj of such a delicate nature, it was natural for Conrad Weiser to show his usefulness in a public way, and to extend his influence from a small community throughout the inhabited portions of the country, reaching from the St. Lawrence River to and beyond the Potomac, a dis- tance of a thousand miles. Successful Foot-race. — After his return, some time in August, 1714, the Indians arranged to have a foot-race with the Germans and offered to stake on the issue a lot of dressed deer-skins against some articles which the Germans possessed. The challenge was accepted and both parties assembled at Weisersdorf to witness the race. The runner for the Indians was a j'oung man, recognized as the most agile of all the tribe, and for the Germans Conrad Weiser was selected. The starting point was in the road just above the village, and the goal was a little beyond the most southern dwelling. The intervening distance was about half a mile in length. At a given signal the runners started and onward they dashed with the fleetness of antelopes. Towards the end they were obliged to turn a corner at the dwelling, and reaching this point side by side they ran against each other with such force that the Indian struck the building and fell. And so Conrad won the race. Employed at Farming and Teaching. — His general employment was at farming in the Schoharie Valley, under his father ; but during the Winter he was also engaged at teaching. Labor was the most prominent idea before the people in that period, and thereby they created value and improved the surrounding lands from a barren waste and wilderness into profitable gardens and farms ; and from caves and tents their habitations S v'*' '"^ ''^ ''^ '"^ '"^ '"^ '"^ '"^ ''^ '' ^''''' ''* ^' ^' ^' v*'!^' ^ K. y ./ ^ TELEl^HONK 2903. Ill ^ i N. E. Cor. Sixtli aiiJ WasMitoii Streets, READIN&, PA,, Pjanufacturing Gonfectioqei'. The most complete line of Con- fectionery for the Whole- sale Trade to be had in the city. ;;:;.^ ..v^ pi' m \ v"V"'\"\'" ■y -y-y - y •■ y. mm WEISER LECTURE. 15 advanced into buildings, and from the rocks and trees that Urst sheltered domestic animals there came into use strong and commodious barns. Palatinates Disturbed. — This general improvement of the country thereabout had been going on rapidly for about six years. But in the midst of their encouraging labors, certain men came upon the lands, claimed them by right of previous purchase from the Governor, and demanded that the occupants either buv them or yield up possession. This was not onl}' a surprise, but on that account "a great uproar arose both at Schoharie and Albany." Earnest pleadings and entreaties were of no avail. The landlords were unscrupulous and in- sisted upon their demands. To them, what was the Queen's favor or the Indians' generous release as against their alleged vested rights, especially if by presump- tion, fraud and threats they could acquire improve- ments that did not cost them any labor or expense ? Delegates for JRedress. — Being peaceably inclined, the Palatinates determined to send delegates to the beloved Queen Anne for redress. They accordingly selected three representative men, one of whom was Conrad's father. The delegates departed secretly at the expense of the Colony, but the}' had not gone far on their jour- ney before they were arrested on false charges by the landlords. After severe trials they finally reached London, but found the Queen dead ; and, to add to their distress, agents of the landlords, anticipating their arrival, again caused them to be imprisoned on wicked misrepresentations. The poor, dejected dele- gates wrote for aid but their letters were intercepted. They persisted, nevertheless, and eventually obtained money for their redemption. The sum necessary to purchase their release amounted to £70, which, in that day, represented much labor and economy. GEORGE BROOKE, President. H. T. KENDALL, Vice-President. H. B. HAGY, Secretary. D. W. STEHMAN, Treasurer and Trust Officer. CYRUS G. DERR, Title Officer. CAPITAL, $250,000. KULL PAID. Trusts, Titles, Collections, Deposits M Iiiyestments, ThepenngijIvaqiaTi'ugtCo. 536 PENN STREET, READING, PA. TRUSTS. — Acts as Executor, Administrator, Guardian, Trus- tee, Committee, Assignee, Receiver, Agent, Surety and Attorne.y, and executes Trusts of every description, keeping Trust Funds and Investments separate and apart from the assets of the Com- pany. Commissions moderate and may be made the subject of special agreement, in advance, with parties desiring to create Trusts. Small safes in our FIRE AND BURGLAR PROOF VAULT rent from $5.00 per annum upwards, and provide absolute security against Burglary, Fire or Accident. ■# WEISER LECTURE. 16 Other Lands Offered. — The situation of affairs in the Schoharie Valley was presented so well to the "Com- missioners of Trade and Plantations" that Robert Hun- ter was recalled and William Burnet was substituted as Governor, to whom an order was issued — "to grant vacant lands to all the Germans who had been sent to New York by the deceased Queen Anne." Conrad Weiser's father returned to Schoharie in 1723, after an absence of four years, but he and those about him could not retain the lands they had improved except by purchasing them at exorbitant prices, which they could not afford, and, believing that they could not with certainty retain other vacant lands in that vicinity even if they should take possession and improve them as the}" had done twice before, certain families united with him in determining to make another removal. First Palatinates in Tidpehocken. — For ten years they had heard of the liberal grants in Pennsylvania to emi- grants, and thither they directed their way. Sixty families joined together in forming a colony. After cutting open a road from Schoharie to the headwaters of the Susquehanna, a distance of twenty miles, they proceeded by rafts and boats on this river for over two hundred miles to the outlet of the Swatara creek, and then pursued their journey along and beyond this stream until they reached the territory where the Tul- pehocken creek takes its rise. Through an unbroken wilderness they continued for some miles farther, and finding at last a country that suited them in ever}' way they halted ; and there, in 1723, amongst the Indians, they established the first white settlement beyond the South Mountain, which, shortly afterward, came to be known as Tulpehocken. » ■ — ■• SEEING IS CONVINCING. 2\>u^>/l^i>-i^>^^)6^^/<^>-PS, PakiiiSf Powder, Coiid nsed Mil It ainl Snices, hav^ been/ my solace through life. " G-^ANnMOTIIEB. BAKING POWDER and SPICES, Is takins^ pfFect every clay, and the Demand tor a Better and Higher-Priced grade of goods is rapidly increasing. The consumer soon realizes that the Best is the Cheapest. Among all the Teas, Coffees, Baking Powder and Spices now being sold THE Gd-ltlantic aod Pacific Tea Co.'s STAND OUT PRE-EMINENT AND AHEAD of anything in the market, because the Company have held their way from tlie beginning upon just and honorable iirinci[)les. They will not sell goods they cannot recommend. Customers are always sure of getting the RIGHT GOODS at the RIGHT PRICES! REMEMBER THEIR STORE, 619 Penn Street, Reading, Pa. 200 stores In the United States. #"■ WEISER LECTURE. 18 County about the time of his arrival. There was only one church — which was situated near the Tulpehocken creek about two miles west from the place where he lived, and a highway extended from this church east- ward to the Schuylkill, striking the ford where Read- ing was subsequently laid out in 1748. Farming was the principal occupation, and trading operations were carried on with merchants at Philadelphia sixty-five miles distant to the southeast. This was the situation of affairs in the settlement in 1729. Influence with Indiajis.— The territory was still claimed by the Indians. His father's influence with them, and then his own, must have persuaded them not to cause any serious trouble bej'^ond complaints to the Provincial Government. At that time he was thirty- three years old, in the very prime of life ; and he was possessed of a varied experience which fitted him well to be what he afterward became, a leader in the Province until his death. Visit of Shekallamy. — For a few years, Conrad Weiser led a quiet life at farming. While thus engaged, She- kallamy— a representative of the Iroquois ISTation, who resided at Shamokin — called to see him while on his way to Philadelphia, having doubtless known him be- fore in New York. Shekallamy persuaded him to go along and act as interpreter, which he consented to do. This was in 1731, and it was the first time that he acted in such a capacity in the Province. His services on tjiat occasion were so highly appreciated that the Executive Council directed him to be paid, even though the services were rendered at the request of Shekallamy. Several months afterward, he again assisted in a treaty between the Shawuese Indians and the Provincial Gov- ernment. From 1732 to. 1736, the messengers of the SOLE AGENT FOR ^ O O VAN OPSTAL & CO;S MALAKOF. Established i86g. R. H. JONBS, RECTIFIER "i^ tQ:5ines AND - - mi£^ Liquors ■^T" <$> <*> <$> -'*--*--*--5^i-5$^-C$P- igj lili L^J i| i9i w iQi iDi in iQ' HI iDjiB'"!! a innBi'Siia'iDiI! fluB '?'« lO'lOllBiiDiWiiSUCi ClBiOlODilDUli lii i IJ ill ii' a lui # iDi ill fill ,11 lb i ijiSjiS) I (JPtl' (El ijj {ijlf 111 li) ijiij iS D ji.u.iiiii?iisii;'{ ?■& I"". ("ffllffilllljltfllif, I? ifii'lUllflllgllfM! .Jt. fl ill iTIi W f i^iiliiSuftipiiBi Cj n (iiiini liri g s ifn (8 (gj bi * 'u><\} 4^ /i:/tTJ3i-^c/<^ -i{i- -4}i- -i^ -^Ji- -!^ -iJS- -!^ -^J^ -<^ --Ji- -^ -^ -.^ r^ ^ r^ ^ ^ r^ -ijb- -iji- Our supply of HATS iu all sizes and styles is number one. We carry the best quality and correct styles. Our prices defy competition, quality considered. When in need of a head covering come in and look over our lines. Do you want a good Hat ? 11/ L iL Do you want a cheap Hat? "C HuVC UlCllli Ji|©. S. /X\GS©war^, No. 537 Penn Street. U^^ Remember the place. W5 •m f£- WEISER LECTURE. 21 South Mountain and between the Delaware and Sus- quehanna Rivers, the boundary lines of this county- would not have been fixed in such an admirable man- ner, for the territory in respect to general topography, natural fertility, and the distribution of valleys and streams is without comparison of all the counties in Pennsylvania. His name was not mentioned in the Act of Assembly but his influence appeared there never- theless. It was, no doubt, withheld for more honorable mention, for he was appointed as one of the first jus- tices of the County Courts. Missionaries Encouraged. — Conrad Weiser was a man of positive convictions. As such he manifested a nat- ural zeal for religious and educational aifairs in the Tulpehocken settlement immediately after his arrival, for he had been brought up under certain religious in- fluences, and teaching had been part of his daily life for the preceding ten or fifteen years. He was a mem- ber of the Lutheran denomination. In 1738 three Moravian missionaries came to this country in behalf of educating the Indians in the Chris- tian religion. He extended a kind welcome to them, and accompanied them to Bethlehem. Several years afterward, in 174:2, Count Zinzendorf also visited this section of the Province for the purpose of assisting the missionaries in their religious undertaking, first preach- ing for a while iuOle^'and then going to Tulpehocken. Weiser received him in a cordial manner and guided him thence through the wilderness to Shamokin. Intimacy loith Muhlenberg. — About that time Rev. Henry Melchior Muhlenberg (regarded as the pioneer of the Lutheran Church in America) also arrived in Pennsylvania. In his ministrations for the Lutheran denomination he passed to and fro in the Tulpehocken and Heidelberg settlements, and intimate social rela- e^zne, ^ 849 PENN STREET, o IMPORTER OF o aBlKttttif^ II MANUFACTURER OF TOY PISTOLS ■t Kireworkis a Specialty WHOLESALE AND RETAIL. •^DANIEL A. YODER,^ Q Q WHOLESALE DEALER IN q _ FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC LIQUORS. 635 PENN-.ST.. - Wines ■ .a.iNri3 Liquors! S3S I^exiia Street, READING, PA. TELEPHONE 32 WEISER LECTURE. 22 tioDS with Conrad Weiser were a natural consequence. During his sojourns there he made the acquaintance ot Weiser's eldest daughter, Maria, a young woman about seventeen j'ears of age, and eventually married her in 1743. In 1754 Weiser permitted his name to be used in connection with the German Calvinists (Reformed) at Reading. He may have been a member of this congre- gation since its organization in 1751. A patent was issued to him and Isaac Levan as trustees in trust for this congregation for the lot of ground at the corner of Thomas and Prince streets (now Washington and Sixth.) Judicial Career. — In 1741, Conrad Weiser was ap- pointed a Justice of the Peace. For this position he was fully qualified by education and experience. His father and also his grandfather had filled a similar ofhce at Gross-Anspach in Wurtemberg. He continued to serve this position until the County of Berks was erected in 1752, when he was selected as one of the Jus- tices of the County Courts. This appointment was a just recognition of his ability and integrity. He dis- pensed justice without fear or favor, and officiated as President of this local judicial body until he died. On one occasion, it is stated, that he knew" a litigat- ing party to be "worse than any Indian or Frenchman;" nevertheless he conducted an impartial trial and pro- nounced the sentence of the Court. For this upright and fearless discharge of official duty he and his family came near losing their lives. On a certain night, shortly afterward, the shutters of his dwelling in Hei- delberg were barred and the doors blockaded, and an efibrt was made to. burn the house by placing straw and other combustible materials around on the outside and setting them on fire. Fortunately, one of the children EiE I i_iBK.o:]sr. Conrad Weiser was a wise man, but you will W wiser if you buy D z o o ^•OZF": 838 & 840 PENN STREET. Factory, Cherry Street below Ninth. «!^" WEISER LECTURE. 23 discovered the attempt in time and gave the alarm, when all of the family escaped. And it is also related, as showing his humor, that a woman annoyed him by frequent arrests of her husband for assault and battery, and, upon asking her if she did not sometimes deserve a little castigation, she replied, after some hesitation, that it was the husband's right and her profit but that he exercised the right too often and was too severe. Indian Incursions — The French and Indian War was a prominent factor in Colonial matters from 1754 to 1763, more especially to 1758. The Indians had previously been led by misrepresentations of the French to believe that the Penns had cheated them out of their lands, and on this account they determined to take revenge on the innocent "settlers in the districts near the Blue Mountains. Their incursions were delayed until 1754, then they began to visit the inhabitants with outrages that were truly shocking. They applied the knife, tomahawk, and torch at every opportunity, scalping or killing men, women and children, and burning down dwellings and barns. Their cruelties cannot be described nor the losses estimated. Their evil spirits had been thoroughly aroused, and nothing apparently would or could satisfy them short of blood, destruction and death We cannot imagine the condition of the people during that trying and uncertain period, espe- cially those along and in the vicinity of the mountains, for it was terrible beyond description. Military Prominence — During those fearful and costly years, Conrad Weiser occupied a prominent position in the militar}^ affairs of the Province. He was commis- sioned as a colonel, and as such oilicer he took charge of the troops in this section for the purpose of protect- ing the people and their property. In this behalf he superintended the construction ot certain forts along A. N. Kissinger. - - - - C. Carkoll IhaxER. ••"^►t^Esta-lDlislaeca. 18V2.^S5<^. KI SSINGER & BRINE R, ^^ /- \ M, LARGEST WHOLESALE AND RETAIL FLOnR and FEED STORE <«^ -*- -*- -c^ v^ ^iXTHandpEWMdLOTHKjflOU^E T/ir Largest Variety of^ • • Men's, Boys' m - Shildi^bn's Slothing • • • • ^ ^" /last en/ Pennsylvaiua. ALL GOODS SOLI) AT A MODERATE PRICE. 1 %mB^, MEDLAl^ \ BfidjlMAW,^^ N. E. Corner Sixth and Penn Sts. WEISER LECTURE. i^o First Store-Stand at Reading. — The town of Reading was laid out by Thomas and Richard Penn, sons of William Penn, in 1748, and the next year they ap- pointed Conrad Weiser as the first-named of three com- missioners to dispose of the lots by public sale. Amonsi; those sold, Weiser himself purchased several promi- nent lots on Penn Square. In 1749 he took possession of two of them which were situated next to the north- east corner of Callowhill street, (now Fifth), and by the next year had thereon a two-story stone building. It was the first building erected after the town-plan had been laid out. The accompanying illustration is a correct likeness. He established the business of hard- ware and general merchandise, and carried on the same successfully for some years ; and it is believed that a tavern was conducted in connection with it. , ^#ic;i, c/^ LAHCE's Lumberyard = READmG,PA. WHOLESALE AND RETAIL DEALER IN HEMLOCK, WALNUT, WHITE PINE, ASH, YELLOW PINE, BALUSTERS, WHITE OAK, WAGON POLES, RED OAK, CHESTNUT, POPLAR, CYPRESS, CHERRY. WAGON AXLES, LADDERS, FENCE POSTS, SHINGLES, FLOORING, CEILING, WAGON BOLSTERS PARTITION, SLEIGH PANELS, FENCING, PLASTER'G LATH, SIDING, and ROOFING LATH, FINISHI'G LUMBER -OF ALL GRADES AND KINDS. -^^Z/M-->— » llt^" 2,000,000 feet of as fine iui as.sortment as can be found in the Stale, all under cover. Before j'on do anything in the building line, it will pay you to look at my stock and get prices. I will consider it a favor if you will let me make estimates and bids on the material required for large building.s, such as Barns, Factories, itc, &c. GEORGE E. LANCE, Comer 8tJi and Ehn Sts. WEISER LECTURE. 26 This stand was the lirst business place at Readinsi; and it has been used continuously for business purposes ever since, a period covering one hundred and forty years. Besides Weiser, the Keims and Stichters owned and occupied it during the entire period, excepting five years, the former from 1769 to 1842, and the latter from 1842 until now. Mark Bird purchased the property from the Weiser estate in 1764 and owned it until 1769, but it is more than likely that Nicholas Keim occupied it in that period also, for Bird was in- terested in the manufacture of iron extensively at Birds- boro, and Keim had moved from Oley to Reading be- fore 1759. The letters which Weiser addressed to the Governor of Pennsylvania on Provincial affairs, from 1755 to 1760, while at Reading, were written in this building. They describe the condition of things as affected by the French and Indian War. Previous to this war, many Indians, while on their way from the regions beyond the Blue Mountains through Reading to the seat of government at Philadelphia, stopped here for a while to pay their compliments to Weiser as a steadfast friend, and receive from him gifts of useful articles, or obtain them in exchange for articles of their own man- ufacture. Death in 1760.— After the cessation of Indian hos- tilities in the county, Conrad Weiser became an invalid. His trials and exposures latterly had been too severe for his strength. But he continued, however, to offi- ciate as the presiding judge of the courts until 1760 ; then he was obliged to retire to his farm in Heidelberg township adjoining the Tulpehocken road, nearly four- teen miles west from Reading, and there he died on the thirteenth day of July, of that year, in the sixty-third year of his age. He was buried in a family burying Myers & Heim, Tailo!(S and Slothiers, -HSTo. SOS r>HKr3sr sqxj.^^:e=le. copYftiCHr THERE'S A BIG DIFFERENCE Between what you may look like and what you ought to look like when you make your appearance in a new suit. You ought to look as tliough you hadn't made your purchase with your eyes shut ; the suit ought to look as though you had bought it with your eyes wide open. If it doesn't, even the old may be better than the new. You'd better part with neither your old suit nor 3'our money, if all you succeed in getting is something that looks as if the wrong wearer had got into it. How are you going tt) avt)id this experience '! It's simple enough. "We'll do it for .you with our NEW AND COMPLETE STOCK OF ^: OF OVERCOATS, AND MEN'S. YOUTH'S AND CHILDREN'S SUITS. m — ■■■■"■ " -■■ ■ ■■ WEISER LECTURE. 27 ground on the farm near the dwelling house, and there his body has long since mouldered in the grave. A common sand-stone slab was erected at the head of the grave with a German inscription, which translated reads thus : — This is the Resting- Phice of the highly honored CONRAD WEISER, who was born 1G90, the 2ncl of November, in Afstaet, in the County of Herrenberg, in the Kingdom of Wittenberg, and died 1760, the 13th day of Jvily, reaching the age of 63 years, 8 months and 13 days. There is an apparent error in the calculation of the age as to the days. It should be eleven days instead of thirteen. But in reality Conrad Weiser was only sixty- three years and eight months old at his death — eleven days having been added to the calendar in 1751 by Act of Parliament, when the year was made to begin on Januar}^ first, in order to supply a loss of time that arose from the Julian theory of calculation of the revo- lutions of the earth. REFLECTIONS. In looking over the life of Conrad Weiser, with the facts before us that I have detailed, let us now see what reflections can be drawn from them for our guidance and profit. Physical Endurance. — Physical endurance is the first prominent feature of this notable man. He came from a family of strength. Through a line of progenitors he was developed to undergo successfully the trials of toil and to bear the strain of perseverance until he ac- "^ S. H. CLOSE. A. 1). DEEM. .-•-'Vi^ ESTABLISH ED lS69.^2«'.^>-» ©LOSE & DEEM, Wholesale Dealers in and Importers of - - - - - Gins, Brandies ^ WINES and ^ ^ WHISKIES, ^ 909 Penn Street, READING, PA. ^^'an^ J DEALER IN- SWATCHES • • • - niAMOMnQ SILVERWARE, &C. . . 351 and 35 1 >^ Penn Street, . . READING, PA. Special attention given to Fine and Comi)licated Watclies, CUoclcs. &c. Jewelry "Work to Order. WMSER LECTURE. 28 complished what he undertook. Without strong bones, hardened muscles, sound lungs and pure blood he could not have endured the fatigue of his great journeys, nor resisted the penetrating cold of Winter and the ener- vating heat of Summer. Though traveling mostly on horseback, he reported — "it was enough to kill a man to come such a long and bad road, over hills, rocks, old trees and rivers, to fight through a cloud of vermin and all kinds of poisonous worms and creeping things." All the immigrants, who settled in Berks County before its erection in 1752, were particularly required to be hard 3^ men. Constant labor and rigid economy were absolutely necessary to improve its territory for sustenance and habitation. Fortunately for this section of Pennsylvania which the Palatinates came to occupy, they were 80 constituted ; otherwise the trying missions in the interest of peace and safety could not have been undertaken, and the primitive condition of the rugged hills and rolling valleys of the country could not have been changed from a wilderness into profitable fields. Conrad Weiser was a superior physical type of the men of his time. There was no one besides him in the Province capable of doing just what he did. Without his labors in behalf of the public welfare, the general condition of things in respect to the settlements, gov- ernment, &c.,in and for Berks County, would doubtless have been postponed for several decades. Now, after the lapse of over a century, it may be said that there are no missions through a wilderness for us to under- take, and our lands and dwelling-places are prepared for us ; but there are still various enterprises before us that will require the quality of endurance, and we should be led to so direct our conduct as to be distin- guished by its possession. Physical culture should re- ceive our serious consideration, more especially since -FOFL- CARPETS, STOVES, RANGES AND HEATERS, <5?- -^ -jfc- -^ -^^-^-J?!-^-^-5j!-- ^ bin ■^ Ga teed igeci W' 'IBR^H^^S ^^m ^■» •-- ■^- ,^ '<, rs. ^Bk^ jj^MisHml^^^S^^^^afifliBlB^'^ |^% % fj^mr, j^Bl ^ ^ ^-^ ^ >: v^^^^H^^^ ^H'^^Hmm. wE.* M- "^ ,^«B "-i M r^ .-^•^^ wm: rWi ?* W ^.* ^ C*o mense di Sfor La all the Ml M of every y partic ney refi 0^ 4 ^f ^ ^ '^ see th, RME Tw/^m '} Ln \ M^^^ 1 , ^^w l^k Af ^^. % ^ -r \a jAf^^ ' v^ W^ "^ • v%y T i^^^ ^%f Sat I ods c ^^^miiiwiw^ % 1 ■■ E). A. Auierbachi. 530 PENN STREET, READING, PA. •# AVEISER LECTURE. 30 with many severe trials for eight months, he returned to his father's home with a development of physical strength and moral courage that won the admiration of the people round-about him. But his future life re- quired all that he possessed. His journeys and missions demanded a heart that knew no fear. He went for- ward, not sneaking and hiding on the way to shoot and kill a race of men that were commonly believed to be the enemy of the English and German immigrants, but boldly like a man of high-born convictions, and nego- tiated with them, either to obtain a release of lands for a consideration, or to effect a settlement, or to demand the punishment of some of their own kin for offences against the law. Picturing before our minds the dan- gers and uncertainties incident to such undertakings, what kind of courage would we exhibit? How many, no, not how many, but who of us to-day would ride on horseback alone, through wilderness and forest for hun- dreds of miles in the interest of peace and the public good, and take the chances of returning alive ? We possess courage, it is true, but it dwells too prominently in words, arguments and dissertations rather than in actions, and manifests itself too much in selfish interests and associations rather than in noble impulses for a whole community. Experience. — Experience was also a prominent quality. Wherever he went and whatever he did, he showed qualification. He did not presume to do what he was not fitted for. His positions came to him, and they found him able and ready. While passing on from year to year since 1710, his employments and trials were in many respects common to other persons of his own time, but he profited by his experience in the sev- eral periods of his life until the close of his career when w^e find him in a better and more influential situation. #•• D SRBEY & SON /'^ • 9 • • • m • • > B REAVERS OE -~^*^><^it^«^*C^- ^o^isrx) XXX - PORTER - XXX Ask your Bottler for Barbey s Special Brezu. WEISER LECTURE. 31 By studying the progressive course of his life, we are persuaded to say that divinity shaped his ends. In all prominent characters, it would seem that the same di- recting influence was constantly at work and the same qualities of body and mind were exhibited, apparently not recognized by them but nevertheless directing and controlling their destiny. Domestic Relations.— At a mature age he established domestic relations of his own and became a devoted husband and father. His personal situation in this re- spect is one that we can seriously study. It was to him what a similar situation is to us, the basis of social life, and the principal inspiration of all noble endeavors. Now each district supports a number of families, but the proportion to population could be largely increased, indeed, should be as a means not only of building up self-sustaining communities but of elevating the stan- dard of life. As social aifairs are directed and encour- aged, there are certain customs flowing from clubs, se- cret societies and entertainments of various kinds, which are more or less detrimental to domestic happi- ness, because their influences are foreign to it and are constantly disposed to hinder its natural development. If the expenses incident to them were directed into its channel with the same devotion and energy, the social improvement of families would be readily apparent in many ways. By studying the course that population has been tak- ing in Berks County for the last thirty years, we shall find the tendency too much toward the centre or county- seat ; and, also, that as the proportion to area of terri- tory occupied in the outlying districts decreases, the distinctive families grow less in number, with no pro- portional increase in the centre. This tendency should •# ESTABLISHED 1866. W. N. COLEMAN & SON, Real Estate Insuirance, 30 N. Sixth Street READING, PA. Loans Negotiated.. G. A. HAAGE, 215 N. Third St. J. N. TOMNEY, 433 S. Fifth ^MKGE & TOMNEY^ ^*0****^**.' P f ■^ GAS AND STEAM FITTERS, JVo. J 6 North Seventh Street, READING, PA. TELEPHONE. WEISER LECTUKE. 32 be reversed. The noblest aim of life is parentage with a superstructure distinguished for intellectual capability. It is conducive to the most elevating pleasures through the development of childhood into manhood and woman- hood. A general movement of this kind would in- crease the public welfare to a large degree, and it would become more and more apparent as the various avenues of social existence showed more and more in- vigoration. The church is to be commended as an ad- mirable factor whose principles and actions lead the people quietly and surely in this direction, but we in- considerately encourage other factors which counteract her influences to a great extent. Our efforts and asso- ciations should therefore be so directed as to bring about a natural impulse to this end. Man of Peace. — Conrad Weiser was eminently a man of peace. All his missions to the Indians and his in- terpretations for them had this end in view. This spirit gave him proper conceptions, and it also directed him in the political affairs that related to the early settlements and the general welfare of the country. Without it he could not have held the respect and con- fidence of the Indians, but with it he was enabled to be of great service to the Province. It is this spirit that is very serviceable to active and enterprising men of to- day, and enables them to accomplish purposes of a local as well as of a general nature that could not be accom- plished with an opposite spirit. For War when Necessary. — Yet, though for peace, he was also for war when war became a public necessity. But his spirit was not such as strove for conquest, ruin, extermination and death. It was rather to bring about order, confidence and safety, and in these respects he ■# e-t^. W^. ''^C^^^^^^ ^ ^•/ (imafe ,50^i^^^/ ^^ ^ ^M2 cA'••»•■••>■■• ^■» F. BROBST. - - - - M. F. RENTSCHLER. BROBST & RENTSCHLER, ^J& 0000000000 '\ M^ 7 N. E. Cor. 10th and Penn Streets, Reading, Pa. WEISER LECTURE. 34 their communities. The combined results throughout the difterent colonies eventually produced an aggrega- tion of commonwealths, the natural culmination of which was free, representative, constitutional govern- ment. For this we can well cherish his name. A careful study of his course enables us to see clearly that he labored for the convenience and welfare of local districts. It would be well if we did the same in our generation, especially in building up the distinctiveness of the family relation Our policy should be to con- stantly encourage this relation, and then to lead each famil}' into a separate home — not a tenement house too small for real comfort nor too large where many families are under one roof, but a dwelling-house and lot of ground with such proportions as would tend to create and preserve individuality in the several families. This is the true and lasting basis of a prosperous com- munity, one in which there would appear, not a gradual decadence and loss of self-reliance, but a constant self- assertion through well-directed industry and economy, and a spirit of independence. Public Service. — And he was also actively interested in local government. His suggestions, actions and ex- ertions led to its improvement in various ways. He apparent!}^ deemed it his duty as a citizen, to contribute his share of personal service towards the public welfare. He did not simply look on the condition of the people in an idle manner, however much inconvenience they suffered for want of a road, or a township, or a county, or a school, or a church, and let his neighbors start and work out a movement in this behalf until it was realized; but he co-operated, indeed, he did more than that, he took the lead, and developed the proper sentiments for local progress and convenience. *■■ A>)I years' experience to adjust Trusses to jjersons of all a'ges. ^YOU CUN SME BIG MONEYS EVERY TIME - YOU DEAL AT ^^\^ '% Leading* Jewelry* Store OF READING. 7^2 PENN STREET. For Larjie Assortment, for Low Prices in Wx\TC'HES. CLOCKS, DIAMONDS, SILVERWARE, ETC. It^'Fine "Watch, Clock and Jewelry Repairing. All work war- ranted by the well-known E.xpert Watchmaker, C— *-tt/'2^- ^. S. E^ST. ..<-& LETTER FROM COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF COMMON SCHOOLS OF BERKS COUNTY. Fleetwood, Pa., September 2, 1893. ^Ir. James P. Sellers, Chairman Committee on Municipal Attairs, Board of Trade of Reading. Dear Sir : — It gives me pleasure to know that the Board of Trade has talven action in the matter of erecting a monument to Conrad Weiser. I have heard Mr. Montgomery's lecture on Conrad Weiser a number of times, and 1 must confess that I was surprised that in- formation of this interesting local nature was permitted to be hid- den from the people. The study of sketches of such men is not only entertaining but instructive and should be encouraged, be- cause it ennobles the mind and elevates the purposes of life. The people of BerlvS County are especially interested in the life of Conrad "Weiser, for the reason that he took a very active l)art in their early history, and contributed a great deal towards the development of the county in respect to government, educa- tion, religion, local improvement and general progress. Learning through Mr. Montgomery that you intend to publish his lecture for gratuitous distribution amongst the school direc- tors and teachers of the county, and also other persons here and else- where, I wish to express my high appreciation of your commend- able undertaking. It will certainly give the people a proper idea of Conrad Weiser, and of his services to the county, and lead them to favor your project for a monument. I would inform you that I have set aside part of Thursday morning, September 28, 1893, during the next County Teachers' Institute for the consideration of this project, and I will encour- age the directors to have the teachers to devote a part of Thursday afternoon, November 2nd, for the study of AVeiser's character — the day to be known as "Weiser Day." Wishing your undertaking an entire success, and promising the Board of Trade my earnest co-operation. Yours Very Truh', Wm. M. Zechman, County Supt. of Common Schools. F. R. niMMKLBEU(!Kl{ (iEO. H. SMITH. H1MMELBERGER& SMITH, BUILDERS OK- Buggies, (Jai'i'iageg and ^pi^ing Wagon? WEST READING, PA. OP' EVERY - DESCRIPTION. TELEPHONE CONNECTION. W. H. MOVER, — »^*s^-» - - - DEALER IN FANCY AND STAPLE- S6 North Fifth Street, - - READING, PA. I MMKE M SPECIMLTY OF FINE GROCERIES. TELEF-HONE 2492. ''WEISER DAY" RECOMMENDED BY THE BOARD OF TRADE OF READING. At a regular meeting- of the Board of Trade, held on Thursday evening, September 7, 1893, upon tiie recommendation of the Committee on Municipal Affairs, the following preamble and resolution were adopted : RESOLUTION. Whereas, The public services of Conrad Weiser have so dis- tiiiguislied liim as to lead the people of this community to regard him as " The first representative man of Berks County," and as a type of the Pennsylvania Germans in this section of Pennsylvania. And Whekeas, Conrad Weiser was the first man of business at Reading, and also an earnest advocate of education throughout the County of Berks, on which account we, as a Board of Trade,' have introduced a movement looking to the erection of a suitable monument to him, and the school authorities of the city and county should unite with us in our undertaking: therefore — Resolved, That we devote the November meeting, on Thursday, November 2nd, to the discussion of a project for a monument to Conrad Weiser, and that we request the directors at the Count}' Teachers' Institute during its next annual convention, and also the Board of School Controllers of Reading, to set aside a part of said day for the study of his life and character by the teachers and scholars — the day to be commonly known as "Weiser Day," it beins- the annivt-rsarv of his birth. •'«^ W. H. DAVENPORT FIRE ARMS CO. SINGLE BARREL BREECH LOADING GUN. J. H. OBOLD & CO., -DEALERS IN «^!*s^- mi RIFLES and SPORTING GOODS, BUILDING HARDWARE, .Third and Penn Streets. WHO DOES YOUR- Printing ? Does it suit you ? Is it stylish ? Could it not be improved on ? It is our business to do stylish, up-to- date printing — plain or fancy. CHAS. F. HAAGE, Seventh and Court Streets, -•'-^^^- READING. PA. BOARD OF TRADE OF REKDING, Organized April 21, 1S81. Incorporated February ii, if PURPOSE. The Hoard of Tkade was organizi-d to improvf the material interests of Reading. Its specific purposes are to promote the trade, commerce, manufacture and mechanic arts; to establish and maintain uniformity in commercial usages and to inculcate principles of justice and equity in business relations ; to dissemi- nate valuable commercial and statistical information ; to facilitate the adjustment of controversies in trade; and to foster, protect and advance the best interests of the business community. These aims have enlisted the sympathy and secured the co- operation of most of the energetic business men of Reading, who have become members of the association. Membership in Sep- tember, 1893—500. OFFICERS FOR 189H. President — Jerome L. Boyer. First Vice President — John F. Uaniell, Jr. Second Vice President — Dr. Henry Landis. Treasurer — Frederic P. Heller. Secretary— Cyrus T. Fox. DIRECTORS. Sydenham E. Ancona, William F. Remppis, William S. S. Coleman, John G. McGowan, Daniel H. Wingerd, Walter G. Roland. John D. Mishler, Jonathan G. Leinbach. TRUSTEES. Albert ThalhtMmer, Peter IX Wanner, John G. Mohn. COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS. James P. Sellers, Benjamin F. Dettra, John H. Keppelman, Herman Kretz, Robert H. Savage, Morton L. Montgomerv, The project of a monument to Conrad Weiser was referred ti) this committee, and this publication was issued by its direction. Ijood Things in tik Worfld. # * EVERYBODY, barring pessimists, will unite in the opinion that there are many, very many good things in the wide, wide world. Indeed they will unite in saying that the good things are, to use the oft-quoted expression, "too numer- ous to mention. " The consensus of opinion is much the same regarding that smaller world within the greater world — "The Reading Evening World," the people's pop- ular penny paper, which has achieved such a phenomenal and richly deser/ed success, since its inception, over three years ago. Examine its local columns, the United Press dispatches from all parts of the world, its fearless and independent opinions on the topics of the day. In its bright columns can also be found a profusion of readable matter concerning the things in which the people find amusement and recreation — bright theatrical gossip, sports of the season, etc. There are many other good things in it, and you would surely be pleased with it. Try it. The price is but one cent a day, but it will get for you all the good things in the World. Surely a profitable investment. School History • OF BERKS COUNTY, BY MORTON L MONTGOMERY. The School History of Berks County was published in ISS!) upon the recommendation of the county and city superintendents and certain advanced teachers of the common schools, for the purpose of enabling the children to learn the geography and his- tory of theiv own county. Immediately after its publication a number of the more prominent districts introduced it as a supple- mental reader ; and, each year since then, additional districts have done likewise. Those educators, who recommended its use at the beginning, are now, after a trial of several years, more highly satisfied of its utility and value in local schools. A child, in studying the contents of the volume, exercises the perceptive faculties more than the imaginative. It obtains know- ledge through perception, and not the imagination, because it can see and thus grow into understanding ; but it cannot correctly exercise the imagination without comprehension. The arrangement of the book is simple. The subjects are so treated as to be within the grasp of any scholar who can read in- telligently ; and the information, though mostly of a local nature, can be made useful in various ways. • There is an increasing de- mand for this information in our dailj' affairs, as shown by the newsi)apers. The conversation and interest of the great maiority of the people are almost wholly on local topics. The volume is a small octavo of 300 pages, and the ct)ntents comprise the following chapters : 1. — Geogkaphy. 2. — Indians. H. — Early Settlers. 4. — Erection op County and Subdivisions. 5. — (jOVERNMENT. (). — Education. 7. — Labor and Internal Im- provements. 8. — Military Periods. 9. — Townships. 10. — Boroughs. 11. — Reading. 12. — Census. Price, $1.50 a copy ; to School Districts, $1.00 «!^' J. GEO. HINTZ, I'Roioli^eller anil StatiDiier 734 Penn Street, Reading, Pa. School l^ooks and School Supplies, and Office Stationery : immense stock of Cloth and Paper bound Books, J^ibles, Photograph Albums, Pocket Hooks, Card Cases, Gold Pens, Fountain Pens. Toilet Cases, Shaving Cases, Work Boxes, Music Boxes, Games, Blocks, and Fancy Goods and Novelties of every description. We carry the most complete stock of Blank Books in the city. We deallargely in Paraphernalia. Uniforms, Costumes, Seals, in fact everything required by Secret Societies and Lodges. Send for catalogues and prices. Send us 25c. and we will send you a Sou- venir Album of Reading and vicinity, showing 39 Photographic Views of all the jjrinciple Resorts and Buildings. Parks, itc. o o REMEMBER THE PLACE, o o H I NTZ'S Poplar Bookstore, m Penn Street CAPfe OvERCOAt A BIG STOCK* SMALL STORE, Our steadily increasing business necessitates larger quarters. Our new building is now in the course of erection, and when finished will be one of the most complete clothing houses in this section. Our present place of business is very small for the display of the large stock we carry. We bought very largely for the Fall and Winter Seasons, expecting to get into our new building sooner than we actually will. We cannot satisfactorily handle this stock in our crowded store, and we pro- pose to get rid of the bulk of it as soon as possible by making prices that will move the goods. We are showing an elegant line of Fall and Winter Suits and Overcoats for men, boys, )^ouths, and children, at prices calculated to please the closest buyers. jl|@°= Remember, we are now at 714 Penn Street. Will remove to 700 and 702 Penn Street on completion of the building. ROSENBADM, Clothier and Hatter. .BUTTON ICUTTW^ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS [JGLE mm and GRI IL^ w,> The Largest Establishment in Pennsylvania •0 ■* IB (D Soldiers' Monument in Charles Evans Cemetery, Reading, Pa., designed and executed by the " Eagle. Marble and Granite Company. P. F. EISENBROWN, SONS & 00., Proprietors, 300— 3J4- North Sixth Street. - - East and West Sides, - - READINQ, PA.