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OF THE

TOWANDAS.

The Aborigines, Pennamites and Yankees,
TOGETHER WITH ,
Biographical Sketches

Matters of General Importance Connect
ed with the County Seat,
BY
a F. jIEVEI^LY.

TOWANDA, PA.:
Reporter-Joubnal Printing Company.
1886.

Contents.

Aborigines  18
Addenda . . . .....  360
Attorney list . . .  ... 30-1
Banks  . .  . . 3.S0
Bar, the Bradford Co  301
Biographical Sketches  ... . . 244
Bridge, the Towanda .... . ... 173
Burgesses of Towanda   321
Business Directory . . .  353
Canals and Railroads   17-5
Churches .... .... . 176
Claverack  . .' 5
County officers, list of ... . . . . ."'¦08
Court House and Jail  . . . 166
Early History . . ,   . 22 .
Early Settlers, Sugar Creek  . . 56
" " Towanda Borough . . . .' SO
'-i " Towanda-Creek . . . . . 23'
'" " Towanda Hills . .  81
Elections and Officers . . . . .... . 235
Elevations  238
Eminent Characters  lo'J
Establishment of County Seat . . . . . . . 163
Eire Departments . . ... . . . . ' 334
Habits. and Customs  . . 223
Grpwth and Development of Towanda . . . . . 168
Mails, &c   233
Military History . . .  203
Mills  238
Xvewspapers  . . 323
Original Names of Towanda  . 16]
Proprietaries of Towanda • ... . . 9
Roads   230
Schools . . ....  191
Societies .... . . ..... 339
Susquehanna Company  7
Yankee and Pennamite War . . ... . . 10

Preface.
With Towanda begins the remotest history of the county,
and as a souvenir to posterity this volume has been care
fully written — that the deeds and virtues of the heroic
-pioneers may ever be kept bright ; and that we may revere
the memory of " the Fathers and Mothers " for the valuable
lessons their lives have taught us, and for the hardships and
privations they so nobly bore, that we might enjoy the fruits
and blessings of their labors. Accordingly this volume is
most affectionately dedicated to the pioneers, our benefactors,
the men and women who founded the settlements, made the
county what it is, and the men and boys who offered their
lives to save our country from disunion. The preparation of
this volume has cost months of hard labor — though a work
of love — and has been verified as far as possible from official
records. However, none are infallible, and from the great
multitude of facts here contained, it will not be surprising if
errors are disclosed.
In conclusion, the author tenders his greatest obligations
to the following, who have most generously assisted and
aided in furnishing data :
Mrs! Olive Elliott, Mrs. Nathaniel N. Betts, Mrs. Cornelius
Coolbaugh, Mrs. Burton Kingsbury, Mrs. John Cranmer,
Mrs. Thomas Hawkins, M. C. Mercur, Col. J. F. Means,

John M. Fox, H. L. Scott, Luther Scott, Maj. E. W. Hale,
E. H. Horton, Benjamin Davidson, Nelson Gilbert, David
Rutty, O. D. Bartlett, O. D. Goodenough, E. A. Parsons,
Gen. H. J. Madill, Samuel Stratton, .\. L. Cranmer, Esq.,
Roderick Granger, Harry Scovill, Miss Jane D. Irvine, Hon.
James Foster, Chas. H. Allen, Ezra Rutty, Nathan Nor-
thrup, Henry Northrup, James Reed Irvine, Col. H. B. Mc-
Kenn, J. V. Geiger, H. E. Bull, Jos. Kingsbury, Wm. Keeler,
G. H. Vandyke, Esq., Col. E. Overton, Hon. Jas. H. Webb,
E B. Coolbaugh, N. N. Betts, Hon. Jos. Powell, W. H.
Dodge, Francis Watts, Wm. Barnes, Capt. C. M. Manville,
G. W. Scovill, H. W. Magill, Mrs. H. W. Magilf, Francis
Gregg, Rev. John S. Stewart, Rev. Chas. F. Kelly, Miss M.
A. Eagan, Mrs. David Rutty, D. O. Hollon, Prothonotary
W. J. Young, Clerks John G. Culver, J. J. Spalding, Regis
ter and Recorder A. D. Mvinn, Deputy C. E. Munn, Com
missioners Clerk S. W. Buck, Assi.stant Clerk Wm. Layton,
Joshua Bailey, D. M. Turner, G. W. Buck, H. F. Marsh,
Capt. J. A. Wilt, Capt. G. V. Myer, E. B. McKee, O. D.
Lyon, Hon. C. S. Russell, A. D. Coolbaugh, Mrs. G. F. Ma
son, John A. Codding, Esq., John W. Mix, Esq., Wm. K.
Marshall, Hon. W. T. Davies, J. F. Sanderson, Esq.; Hon.
P. D. Morrow, W. C. Bogart, Esq., Henry Streeter, Esq., Dr.
W. B. Kelly.
The following are contributors: <Rev. David Craft, Capt.
. J. A. Wilt, Jas. H. Codding, H. F. Marsh, Gen. H. J. Ma
dill, J. V. Geiger, Prof E. E. Quinlan, O. D. Goodenough,
R. M. Welles. C. F. Heverly.
Towanda, Pa., April 26, 1886.

TOWANDA.

ORIGIN OF NAME.
Towanda is clearly an Indian term. Awandcs in the Nan
ticoke tongue signifies " a burial place " ; and Towandcemunk,
in the Delaware dialect, ' where there is a burying," or
" where we bury the dead."
In a very pretty tradition found among the venerable Burr
Ridgway's papers, Towanda takes its name from the Towan
da Creek, which was. so called after the " young chief, To
wanda," son of " Strong Eagle," who was living on " Beaver
Creek," when the first white people came to the township.
" The pale faces having, always, received the most honora
ble treatment from ' Towanda', when he left for the land
whither his father had gone, to perpetuate his name changed
' Beaver Creek ' to ' Towanda Creek,' and called the lands
' Towanda lands. ' "
Towanda is also said to be derived from Gowanda, which
in the Indian tongue means a town among the hills by the
waterside, and again from Dawantaa, an Iroquois word sig
nifying the fretful or tedious. On various records and maps,
dated a century ago and subsequently, we find the word
spelled Towandee, corresponding to the Indian term of
Awandac.
Many have a vague traditibn, that during the wars of the
(A)

Indians among themselves, they had two combats in a sin
gle day, near Towanda, the result and place of which were
referred to by the victorious side as two-won-in-a-day , cor
rupted into To-wan-daugh, and finally Towanda.
The foregoing are the more probable derivations, but as
the meaning of Indian terms is more or less suppositional,
we leave the reader to make his own deduction.
POSITION AND EXTENT.
The Towandas are situated near the central part of the
county, the township of Ulster and the Susquehanna forming
their boundary on the north, the Susquehanna and Asylum
on the east, Monroe on the south, and Burlington on
the west. The general shape of the territory embraced in
the two townships is rectangular, being modified by a trian
gular corner in the north, andthe " cut-off" in the northeast
and east, by the Susquehanna, which makes two graceful
curves here, forming the eastern and northeastern boundaries.
The Towandas, including the borough, comprises and area*
of almost twenty-five square miles.
SURFACE AND DRAINAGE.
The surface is hilly and somewhat broken along the Sugar
Creek, which courses through the township of North To
wanda, from west to east.
Between the Towanda and Sugar Creek is a plateau or
water-shed, extending westward to the Armenia Mountains.
" The Highlands " is the local name given to this plateau in
*TIie area of Towanda, twwnship is 15.14 square miles, and of North Towanda 9.63 square
miles.

Burlington and the western part of Towanda, where the land
reaches an elevation of. 1,400 feet. The lowest point in the
territory herein described is at at the mbuth of the Towanda
Creek, the flats there being only 700 feet above tjde.
The Towandas are well watered by the Towanda and Sugar
Creek and numerous smaller streams.
The drainage consists of three slopes. 1. The eastern
slope, or slope of the Susquehanna. 2. The southeastern,
or Towanda Creek slope. 3. The northern, or Sugar Creek
slope. The Towanda Creek enters Towanda township five-eighths
of a mile east ofthe center of its southern bound, then takes
a northeasterly course through the township, and mingles
its waters with those of the gentle-flowing Susquehanna a
a mile below the village of Towanda. Sugar Creek enters
North Towanda near the northwest corner of that township;
flows due east a mile and a half, then bends southea.'5terly to
within a quarter of a mile of the boundary between the two
Towandas, when it again turns northeasterly and falls into
the Susquehanna one and three-fourths miles southeast of the
Ulster line. SOIL AND PRODUCTS.
The soil is highly productive, even to the summits of the
hills, and is well adapted for growing the cereals. Along
the river and in the valleys of the Towanda and Sugar creeks
are rich alluvial flats, especially suited for growing wheat,
corn and tobacco. Excellent crops of wheat and corn are
also grown on the highlands. There is but little waste land
in these townships, and fully three-fourths of all is under a

good state of cultivation. As yet no mineral deposits of
worth have been discovered.
/IgricuUure is the principal business of the people. To
bacco-growing has been introduced within a few years, and
is now an important product. Dairying and stock-raising
are carried on successfully but not extensively. The farms,
especially of North Towanda, are small, but generally well
conducted. THE PEOPLE
Are an industrious, honorable class of citizens, and are
engaged in farming.
The inhabitants of Towanda township are largely scions
ofthe hardy pioneers who settled the valley of the Towanda
Creek a century ago. In North Towanda are also many
descendants of the pioneer settlers, but during the past forty
years a large number of thrifty Irish families have settled in
the township, and are to-day among her most enterprising
and money-making citizens.
By the census of 1880 the population of Towanda town
ship was 1,144; in 1870, 916; in i860, about 585 (117
voters) ; in 1850 (including what is now North Towanda),
about 645 (129 voters) ; in 1840 (including North Towanda),
about 715 (143 voters); in 1830 (including Towanda borough
and North Towanda), 978 ; in 1820 (including Towanda
'borough. North Towanda and Monroe), 1,024 — the same
territory now having a population of 8,000.
North Towanda had 582 inhabitants in i860, 593 in 1870
and 745 in 1880.

CLAVERACK,* THE SUSQUEHANNA COMPANV AND THE PENN
SYLVANIA CLAIMANTS.
The following in relation to Claverack is recorded : " On
the 20th of June, 1774, the Committee of the Susquehanna
Company, for laying out townships, officially permit Jere
miah Hogaboom and Solomon Strong to locate and survey
a township, five miles square, in the Susquehanna purchase."
Hogaboom makes the annexed report which was accepted
June 4th, 1778. " Pursuant to the votes of the Susquehanna
Company of proprietors to locate and lay out townships to
a number of proprietors, applying to take up a township, as
will appear by said vote, I have by the approbation of the
Committee appointed to direct the laying out of townships,
surveyed and layed out a township on the East Branch of
the Susquehanna river in said purchase, beginning at a
place called and known by the name of Wysocks Creek,
about five hundred yards below where said creek flows into
the East Branch of the Susquehanna river, at a white oak
tree ; thence south 59° west five miles and sixty rods ; thence
north 31° west five miles ; thence north 59° east five miles ;
thence south 30" east five miles to the first mentioned
bound, — containing twenty-five square miles, exclusive of the
river, which I have surveyed at the request of Col. John H.
Lydius, Capt. Abraham Lansing, Baltiaser Lydius, Peter
Hogaboom, and others, their associates, proprietors in said
purchase, a list of whom is herewith delivered to the Com
mittee aforesaid." Jeremiah Hogaboom,
Agent for said Proprietors.
*Olaverack is so-called from Claverack on the Hudson river, the home of the grantees of
this township. (B)

" The above survey is approved, as witness our hands and
seals. " Zebulon Butler,
" Obadiah Gore,
" Committee ofthe Susquehanna Co."
The following will be seen to define the rights of Hoga
boom and Strong :
" This is to certify that Col. Jeremiah Hogaboom and
Capt. Solomon Strong laid out and located a township on
the Susquehanna river, in the Susquehanna purchase, agree
ably to the rules and orders of the Susquehanna Company,
and was granted to them by the committee appointed for that
purpose and are still entitled to it, provided they proceed to
settle it by the first of May next.
" Zebulon Butler,
" Obadiah Gore,
'¦ Committee for Laying Out Townships.
"Wyoming, Conn., Dec. i8, 1785."
According to the rules of the Susquehanna Company
Claverack was divided into fifty-three equal shares, or lots.
It was called Strong and Hogaboom's town, they owning
one-third of the whole number of rights in it. These two
gentlemen were extensive land speculators, and wishing to
hold their claims in Claverack, as will be seen, were active
in securing settlers.
Claverack embraced half of the Towandas, a third of
Wysox and the lower Sheshequin flats. That half of Claver
ack lying on the west side of the Susquehanna covered
more than half of what is now Towanda and North To-

wanda, the balance of these townships being included in
the Susquehanna Company's towns of " Bachelor's Adven
ture," " Blooming Dale," " Ensurance" and " Bortle's
Pitch." In the autumn of 1800 Col. Benjamin Dorrance, of Kings
ton, Pa., and John Franklin, of Athens by the conveyance
of former claimants, became the joint owners in Claverack of
over twelve thousand acres of land, which they subsequently
leased and sold to, the settlers.
It required several years, however, before they had dis
posed of their " mammoth farm" and made final settle
ments. Claverack was one ofthe " original seventeen townships"^
ofthe Susquehanna Company, which came into existence as
follows : " Rumors ofthe wonderous beauty and fertility of
the Susquehanna valley were in circulation. A few promi
nent men of Connecticut, wishing to know more of the
country, sent a party to explore this region. They were
charmed with Wyoming. Its broad plains, its rich soil and
beautiful situation made it a paradise beside the sterile, rock-
bound New England, and so favorable a report did they
make that an association, styled the
SUSQUEHANNA COMPANY,
was formed July 8, 1753, for the purpose of securing the
purchase and effecting a settlement of the Susquehanna lands
with the ultimate design of being erected into a separate
colony by a royal charter."
At a meeting of the company at Albany on the 9th of
January, 1754, Deacon Timothy Woodbridge was appointed

to negotiate with the Six Nations for the purchase of the
Susquehanna land. By the aid of Colonel John H. Lydius, of
Albany, a deed was obtained from the Indians, for the com
pany, of a large tract of land beginning ten miles east of the
East Branch of the Susquehanna river, on the one and
fortieth degree of north latitude, thence with a northward
line ten miles distant from the said river to the end of the
forty-second degree, and to extend westward throughout the
whole breadth thereof, through two degrees of longitude,
one hundred and twenty miles. This deed, which covered
all of Bradford county except the northeastern corner, was
properly executed and signed by seventeen sachems of the
Six Nations, and bears date July ii, 1754.
The company at once began to take measures for occu
pying their lands, and in the fall of 1754 a considerable num
ber came in for the purpose of selecting a favorable location
for a settlement, but on account of the disturbed condition
of affairs, growing out of the French war, the matter was
held in abeyance for eight years. After peace had been de
clared, the company at once renewed its efforts to take pos
session of its domain. Preliminary arrangements having
been made, in the month of May, 1763, about one hundred
and fifty settlers came on, some of them bringing their fami
lies with them, and occupied and improved lands in Wilkes-
Barre, Kingston, Plymouth and Hanover. This year " Pon-
tiac's War " broke out, and bands of hostile Indians began
to hover over the frontier settlements in Pennsylvania, watch
ing for a favorable opportunity to avenge the wrongs inflict
ed upon them by the whites. About midday, October 15th,

just as the " Connecticut pioneers '' were returning from
their fields, they were suddenly attacked by a band of hos
tile Indians, twenty of their number were killed, a few taken
prisoners, and the remainder fled, leaving everything behind
them. By order of the Crown all further attempts at making a
settlement on the Susquehanna were suspended until the
establishment of peace. This was finally secured at the
treaty of Fort Stanwix, November 5th, 1768, at which time
the PROPRIETARIES OF PENNSYLVANIA
effected a purchase of a tract of land " beginning on the
east side of the' East Branch of the river Susquehanna at a
place called Owegy (Owego), thence down the said branch
on the east side, to the mouth of a creek called by
the Indians Atvandac (^Towandee), and across the river and
up the said creek on the south side, and along the north
side of a range of hills, called "Burnett's Hills," to the head
'of Pine Creek, thence down that stream to the West Branch
and across to the Ohio. This tract included a large part
of Bradford county. The remaining part of the territory
was not purchased until after the close of the Revolutionary
war. The Pennsylvania government now holding a title
for the coveted Wyoming, at once adopted rigorous meas
ures to effect a settlement under the patronage of the pro
prietaries, for whom two large manors were surveyed, and
lots of one hundred acres each, were leased to Charles
Stewart and Amos Ogden, and others, friends to the pro
prietaries, at a nominal rental, on condition that they hold

10
possession of the country. Within a short time warrants
were issued and surveys were made of the most valuable
lands in the purchase, which were assigned to the friends
of the government, to be held by themselves or leased to
their faithful allies.
The Indians having become reconciled once more, the
Connecticut people began to prepare for a second expedition
to the Susquehanna country. Upon returning to their pos
sessions in 1768-9 they found them in the occupation of
Stewart, Ogden, Jennings and others, who had reached the
valley a few days in advance of them and had raised the
flag of the Proprietary Government. Here was a dilemma.
What was to done ? There was but one alternative ;
either to retrace their steps to Connecticut, or stand their
ground. They chose the latter.
And here began that long and bitter conflict between the
Connecticut and Pennsylvania men, known as the
" YANKEE AND PENNAMITE WAR,"
which never became finally settled till the passage of the
compromise law of 1799, by the Legislature of Pennsylva
nia. Sometimes attended by bloodshed, sometimes reprisals
only, but always a bitter and vindictive feud. The jails of
the adjoining counties of Northampton and Northumber-
Jand were often filled with Wyoming prisoners, sent there
by the authorities of Pennsylvania for trespassing dn the
disputed lands. And thus a series of murders, arsons, bat
tles, sipges, arrests and angry personal disputes continued
for more than a fourth of a century. These controversies
related to two distinct questions, — the right oi jurisdiction

11
and the right of soil. Both the charters of Pennsylvania
and Connecticut, which were derived from the Crown of
England, covered the territory in dispute, hence the result
is obvious.During all the troubles incident to the " Yankee and
Pennamite War," the Connecticut people were not daunted.
The Susquehanna Company continuing to grant new town
ships and settle them, occupying in all seventeen prior tOi
1782. Of these four were in Bradford county, viz: —
" Springfield," " Standing Stone," " Claverack," and " Ul
ster." After fourteen years of bitter strife. Congress finally,
at the instance of the State of Penn.sylvania, with the con
currence of the State of Connecticut, intervened the federal
authority to adjust the Susquehanna troubles. This body
adopted a resolution, naming Commissioners, who met at
Trenton, N. J., in November, 1782. The Commissioners,
after a protracted session of forty-one days, during which.
the agents and attorneys on both sides discussed at length
the subject of the troubles, decided, on the 30th of Decem
ber, that the State of Connecticut had no right to the land
in controversy, and that the jurisdiction and pre-emption-
of all lands of right belonged to Pennsylvania.
To this decree, as it has always been called, the two con
tending States, as well as the settlers, assented. It was now
supposed upon all sides that the troubles had found a
peaceful as well as final end. Unfortunately such was not
the case, and the confusion and strife became more bitter
and disastrous than before.
Finally, in 1799, the whole question was arranged in the

12
passage by the Legislature, of the " Compromise Law."
Under the terms of this enactment, Commissioners were
appointed to cause a survey to be made of all lands claimed
by the Connecticut settlers within the " Seventeen Town
ships," previous to the decree of Trenton, in which titles
had been granted to them, according to the rules and regu
lations among them.
They were to classify and value these lands, and give
certificates to the owners, upon the presentation of which, to
the Secretary of the Land Office, on the payment of a small
sum as purchase money, a patent was granted by the State.
The purchase money to be paid was, for the first-class, two
dollars an acre ; for the second, one dollar and twenty cents ;
for the third, fifty cents ; and eight and one-fourth cents for
the fourth class.
The lands of the Pennsylvania claimants were also to be
ascertained and valued, and when they came in conflict with
the claims of the Connecticut man, they were required to
relinquish their title to the State and receive from the
treasury, in full compensation for land of the first-class, five
dollars an acre ; three dollars for the second ; one dollar and
fifty cents for the third, and twenty-five cents for the fourth.
As soon as forty thousand acres should thus be released to
the State by the Pennsylvania claimants, — and the Connecti
cut claimants, who owned an equal quantity, should bind
themselves to submit to the law, to the satisfaction of the
Commissioners, then the Act was to take effect. This then
provided for the settlers within the " Seventeen Townships."

13
But there was another class* to whom no compromise was
offered : these were the " Half Share men," or as they were
sometimes called, the " Wild Yankees," who were induced
to come upon the purchase in full faith in the validity ofthe
Susquehanna Company's title, and forthe purpose of defend
ing it from encroachment by the Pennsylvania landholders.
For these, though they were for the most part indu.strious
and honest men, and would have made good citizens, the
Commonwealth had a policy, not of conciliation, but of ex
tirpation, or in the language of one ofthe Judges ofthe Su
preme Court, " to cut them up by the roots." Toward these
juries were allowed no discretion, and for them courts could
show no mercy.
To this policy, as may be supposed, these settlers did not
readily accede, although many ofthe old settlers endeavored
to persuade them to submit to the oppressive laws which
were attempted to be enforced against them, and trust to
the generosity of the State to afford them relief. On the
other hand, they were urged to maintain their claim at all
hazards, by such men as Colonel John Franklin, the Sater-
lees, the Kingsburys, and Spauldings of this county. In
order more successfully to maintain their claim, they banded
together under a league, each pledging to defend the other
with money or force. As might be expected, acts of
violence were committed and many things were done,
which, in less exciting times, would have been considered,
even by the proprietors, as atrocious. Settlers under
*Before the close of the 18th century, the Susquehanna Company had surveyed the whole
of Bradford cour.ty into townships, and assigned every acre of land to those claiming rights
under it. (D)

14 ,
Pennsylvania title were driven off their lands, and surveyors
who came to locate warrants were compelled to desist.
Col. Arthur Erwin, of Easton, an extensive owner of
lands, in the northern part of the county, was shot dead
while sitting in the door of the house of Mr. McDuffie of
Athens ; the Rev. Thomas Smiley, at that time living eight
or ten miles up the Towanda Creek, while acting as an
assistant agent under the " Intrusion Law" was tarred and
feathered. This vgnominious affair, having transpired with
in the limits of Towanda township deserves a more detailed
notice here. Colonel Abraham Horn had been appointed
by the Pennsylvania landholders to put the " Intrusion
Law' in force, and at once entered upon his duties In June,
1801, he came into Bradford county, but apprehending dan
ger from the violent oppression of the people, he stopped
at Asylum. Rev. Thomas Smiley had written to the agent
that nearly all the forty settlers on Towanda Creek would
renounce their Connecticut titles and purchase of the Penn
sylvania claimants. A conference was held at Asylum. Mr.
Smiley was commissioned a deputy agent, and furnished with
the necessary papers. July 7th, he obtained the signatures of
nearly forty to their relinquishments and submissions, and
started for Asylum. A meeting was held and the " Wild
Yankees " determined that the business must be stopped.
About twenty men from Sugar Creek, Ulster and Sheshe
quin, armed and disguised, started in pursuit. Mr. Smiley,
hearing the arrangements of the conspirators, went down to
Joshua Wythe's near Monroeton, where he remained until
dark, and then stopped for the night at Jacob Granteer's,

15
then living on the Towanda Creek above Mr. Hale's. The
party, learning ofhis lodging-place, followed him, broke into
his room, compelled him to burn his papers, took him near
the creek, poured a bottle of tar over his head and beard,
then adding feathers, the leader after giving him a kick told
him he might go, but must leave the country. John Mur
phy, David Campbell, Jacob Irvine, Ebenezer Shaw, Stephen
Ballard and Benjamin Griffin were arrested for the assault,
but the proof being insufficient the grand jury returned the
bill ignoramus. It has been said that the man who carried
the bottle of tar was on the grand jury, but as in this ca
pacity he was supposed to take cognizance only ofthe facts
provfen, he was not expected to decide from his own personal
knowledge, and therefore voted with the majority. Mr.
Smiley removed to Lycoming county, where for twenty-five
years he was pastor of the Baptist church in White Deer
Valley. For a further history of the " land troubles " as
connected with this county, see Craft's General History of
Bradford County We have given all bearing on this locali
ty, and enough ofthe history in outline to get a definite idea
of the topics mentioned in the caption.
TOWNSHIP ORGANIZATION.
Bradford county was formed from parts of Lycoming
and Luzerne in 1812. The western third of that territory,
now embraced in the Towandas, was in Lycoming county,
and the balance in Luzerne. At the court held at Wilkes-
Barre, in March, 1790, " it is ordered by the justices of this
court that the county of Luzerne be divided into eleven
townships, by the following names and descriptions, to wit :

16
" I. Tioga, bounded north by the north line of the State ;
on the east by the east line of the county ; on the south by
an east and west line, which shall strike the Standing Stone,
in the west line of the county." The " 2nd " township was
Wyalusing, which bounded Tioga on the north. " Tioga "
as thus described, was sixty-seven miles in length from east
to west, and a trifle more than eighteen miles in width from
north tc south.
At the April sessions, 1795, a petition was presented to
the court asking for a division of Tioga township by an
east and west line passing through a small stream on the
east side of the Susquehanna, southwesterly of " Break
neck," the north part to be called Tioga, and the south part
" Wisocksy The prayer of the petitioners was granted.
Again in 1807, at the April sessions of the Luzerne
County Court, upon the petition of Job Irish and other
citizens of Wysocks, setting forth that owing to the incon
venience and at times the impossibility of crossing the river,
and praying for a new township to be set off on the west
side of the river, — Jonathan Stevens, M. Minor York and
John Taylor were appointed viewers to examine and report
in relation to the same. At the November Court (1807)
they report in favor of a new township to be called Towan
da, with the followihg boundaries : Beginning at the mouth
of Durell Creek, thence south 45 degrees west to the county
line, (rather what now is,) thence on said line west to the
corner of Canton, thence north on the ea.st line of Canton
to the county line (between Lycoming and Luzerne), thence
as said line runs to the Susquehanna river. The report was

17
confirmed finally in January, 1808. The territory embraced
within the foregoing boundaries included parts of Asylum,
Monroe, Overton, Barclay, the Burlingtons, the Towandas
and all of Franklin. Towanda was one of " the original
ten townships," or one of the ten already formed within the
limits of the county prior to its organization.
After the incorporation of the borough of Towanda, the
northern and southern parts of the township were so com
pletely separated that it made a division practically neces
sary for the convenience of the inhabitants residing in the
two portions of it.
Accordingly H. L. Scott and other citizens ofthe town
ship, upon petition at the December term of Court, 1850,
'' represent that great inconvenience results to the citizens
of the township from its present shape, and pray that Com
missioners be appointed to view and inquire into the pro
priety of dividing the same." Whereupon the Court ap
point Geo. H. Bull, E. C. Kellogg and Earl Nichols, who
report in favor of dividing the town-ship at the February
session, 1851, " by a line commencing on the west line of
the borough of Towanda, at a point near the northwest
corner of lands of Henry S. Mercur, thence in a straight
line west to the Burlington line, intersecting it immediately
north of the Overshot mill."
The Commissioners report having been made, the citi
zens in a second petition, " pray the Court to confirm it and
further respectfully ask that the new township lying south
of said line be named Towanda township, and the one north
of it Sugar Creeks (B)

18
The report was confirned finally December 15, 1851,
" the townships to be called North Towanda and South
Towanda." Subsequently the citizens petitioned the Court
to have the word " South" dropped, and " South Towanda"
was accordingly changed to Towanda township.
ABORIGINES.
The early history of the aboriginal tribes inhabiting this
continent when first discovered by Europeans is lost in ob
scurity. A few vague and fanciful traditions, rites and cere
monies of uncertain origin and meaning, intimations derived
from the philology of unwritten and imperfectly understood
languages, some of which have ceased to exist, afford all the
information we have of this interesting people in the remote
ages. Europeans found the country west of the Mississippi oc
cupied by two great families of nations, known respectively
as Huron-Iroquois, from the two leading nations, and Algon-
quins. Of the latter were the Delawares, Leni-Lenapi and
New England tribes ; of the former the Five Nations of
Central New York, the Iroquois proper, the Andastes or Sus
quehanna tribes, Hurons, Eries, Tuscaroras, and other nations.
At the beginning ofthe seventeenth century the Andastes
were the most powerful of these nations. They comprised
ten confederated tribes and forty villages fortified with pali
sades extending along the valley of the Susquehanna from
Southern New York to the Chesapeake Bay, and could mus
ter several thousand armed warriors. .About the year 1600
the French Jesuit Missionaries among the Mohawks came
in contact with them through a war between them andthe

19
Iroquois, which continued ten years, and called them Andas-
toquis. In 1608 Captain John Smith met them on the
Chesapeake and speaks of them as Sasquesakanocks. Three
of their palisade villages were within the limits pf Bradford
county — the Carantonans at Spanish Hill, with whom Ste
phen Brule, connected with one of Champlain's expeditions^
spent a winter ; Oscolui, on the north bank of Sugar Creek,
on the point ofthe hill bounded by the creek and the Penn
sylvania and New York Railroad, and which received local
importance from the fact that it was near the junction of the
great trail leading from the West to the^East Branch ofthe
Susquehanna, with the great warrior path leading down the
latter and Gohontoto on the bluff, on the north bank of the
Wyalusing creek, where it flows into the Susquehanna..
The North Branch Can^l, and later the Railroad, cut through
this hill, and more recently the greater part of it has been
removed by the Company for the uses of their road.
Long and bloody wars were carried on between the An
dastes and the Iroquois, though with varying success and
defeat to each, yet the latter were being gradually weakened
by the repeated blows of their more powerful neighbors-
Fortuitous circumstances, however, at length favored the
valiant Iroquois. A pestilence broke out among the An
dastes which decimated their villages. Soon after the small
pox, the red man's plague, reduced their armies and very
greatly impaired their strength. About the same time the
Mohawks obtained firearms from the Dutch, who were set
tling along the Hudson. From these various causes the
powerful Andastes were compelled to succumb to their pow-

20
erful neighbors, by whom their nationality was entirely.
obliterated, and such pf them as were not slain, were carried
captive by their victors and incorporated with their families
to make up the losses suffered in battle. This made the
Iroquois masters of the entire northwestern territory of the
United States, they having subdued the Algonquins before,
assumed the government of their subjugated tribes, and the
disposal of their domain. As the European coloni.sts de
sired more lands upon which to extend their settlements,
the Iroquois, who negotiated the sales, transferred the Algon
quins to the unoccupied territory farther west. In pursuance
of this policy, the valley of the Susquehanna, after the de
struction of the Andastes was given to the Delawares, and
Teedyuscung, their King was ordered to remove his people
thither. The Susquehanna country, above Wyoming, was
occupied by the Minsis, the northernmost tribe of the Dela
wares, of whom Popunhauk, who built at Wyalusing, was
the principal man. A Cayuga chieftan stationed at Diahoga,
at the confluence of the Tioga (Chemung) and Susquehanna
river, was the viceroy of tlie Iroquois, and had the general
control and oversight of the dependencies down the Sus
quehanna valley. In 1748, the Nanticokes, (Tidewater peo
ple,) abandoned their ancient seats on the eastern shore of
Maryland, and emigrated northward. They had the repul
sive custom during their burial feasts, which occurred at
stated intervals, of exhuming the remains of their relatives
which had been buried at convenient places, removing the
flesh from their bones and depositing them in a public cem
etery. One of these cemeteries was on the flats below the

21
Barclay Railroad station at Towanda. River freshets have
laid bare many of these Indians remains, together with the
various trinkets they were accustomed to deposit with -their
dead. The late C L. Ward made a considerable collection
of these relics, which were transferred to the Bradford
County Historical Society. It is quite probable that for a
time some of them planted on the Towanda flats, where the
deep alluvial soil affords such favorable places for corn
patches and easy cultivation with the rude implements they
had in use.
While there can be scarcely a reasonable doubt but that
the Oscaluis in times of peace left their fortified villages and
built their huts at Towanda, Wysox, and Sheshequin, yet
the first certain knowledge we have of a settlement on the
Towanda flats is in 1763, when about a dozen families, a cir
cle of relatives, connections of two Moravian Christian In
dians liying near Tunkhannock, by the names of Nathaniel
and Anthony, were settled here. David Zeisberger, the in
trepid missionary of the Moravian church among the red
men, while at Wyalusing in May of that year, paid them a
visit, and preached the gospel to them, to which they eagerly
listened, and there seemed to be good promise of the con
version of the entire village, but the Pontiac war broke out
at this time, and the missionary was directed to return to
Bethlehem, not, however, until the emissaries of Pontiac had
already visited the Susquehanna towns and enlisted the most
of them for the war. In a short time every village above
Shamokin (Sunbury) was abandoned, some of the inhabi-

(F)

22
tants who were opposed to the war seeking refuge among
their friends, the othersj'oining the enemy.
From this time onward no important village of the In
dians was located on the Towanda and vicinity. Rudolph
Fox found a few families near the mouth of the creek, who
claimed to own all the land as far as Monroeton or Green
wood, and whose claim he purchased. Afterward straggling
parties may have encamped here for a short time, but noth
ing like permanent occupation was attempted.
The men connected with the Sullivan expedition in 1779
found between the mouth of Sugar Creek and the present
Borough of Towanda a town called Newtychauning, consist
ing of a number of unfinished log houses. These were de
stroyed, and with their destruction perished the last attempt
at Indian occupation along the Susquehanna within the lim
its of Bradford county. EARLY HISTORY.
When Towanda was first visited by white man can never
be ascertained. Whether he was some daring explorer, or
zealous missionary will be unknown forever. But be that
as it may, it will be remembered that Towanda is the oldest
settled part of Bradford county, and has a history none the
less interesting.
"About the year 1710, a large number of Palatines,
people of one of the German states, were induced to emi
grate into the province of New York, where many of them
were placed to the westward of the British settlements,
which they were intended to shield from the incursions of

23
the Warlike Mohawks. Many of these emigrants becoming
dissatisfied with their location and witb the treatment which
they had received from the New York authorities, removed
to Pennsylvania, in which large numbers of Palatines had
begun to settle as early as 1727.
At first their route was down the Delaware; but the
short and easy portage from the Mohawk, where their prin
cipal settlements were established, to the head of the Sus
quehanna, soon made this to be preferred to the former
route. It is probable these hardy Germans were the first
white people to navigate our river, for as early as 1737
Conrad Weiser found some of them at Wyoming trying to
buy land of the Indians. Of these emigrants, Rudolph
Fox with his family stopped at Towanda, and Peter Shoe-
felt at Frenchtown, and were the first white people who un
dertook to make a permanent home in the county, having
settled here in the month of May, 1770.
THE PIONEERS.
" God rest them ! in their last low homes,
¦With all their brave compeers,
¦Who fought and bled, or toiled and strove.
Through weary, lingering years ;
That thus their sons in prosp'rous peace
Cbuld pleasantly review
The many changes time has wrought.
Since this, our land was bought.
EARLY SETTLERS OF TOWANDA CREEK.
' The Fox Family. — As already stated Rudolph Fox came
to this county in 1770, and settled on the west side ofthe
Towanda Creek, about a half mile above its mouth, being

24
the first permanent white settler in Bradford county. When
Mr. Fox came to Towanda, a few families of Indians were
living on the stream near Major Hale's and claimed all the
lands in the country. Of these Mr. Fox purchased the
land* lying on Towanda Creek, extending from the river to
the forks at Monroeton. Subsequently his purchase of the
Indians was patented to himself and others, he receiving but
four hundred acres, the same being patented to him as the
" Fox Chase." Having selected a site near the creek, Mr.
Fox erected his cabin, and prepared for life in earnest in
the wilderness, surrounded by Red men and the savage
creatures of the forest. Excepting the Christian Indian
towns at Wyalusing and Sheshequin, the nearest white set
tlements were at Wyoming. So far removed from all the
appliances of civilized life, he must of necessity have sup
plied his wants in the rude manner of the pioneer. The
sufferings of the family were many, but the heroic manner
in which they were met furnishes abundant material for a
most interesting romance. However, it is not our intent to
write one, but to give merely the more thrilling incidents
connected with this courageous family.
While Mr. Fox had purchased his la'nd of the Indians for
a satisfactory price, yet their presence was anything but
pleasant. Soon after the breaking out ofthe Revolutionary
War the friendly feelings of his tawny neighbors were ob
served to undergo a change, and they became more haughty
and exacting. Living so remote from all other setflers, his
* "There seemed to be a very general opinion among the Germans of New York that in
Pennsylvania the Indians were regarded as the lawful owners of the soil, and a purchase
from them was sufficient to give good title."

25
cattle and horses had unrestricted range ofthe country, and
sometimes wandered widely. In the month of March, 1777,
while in search of his cattle, he was seized and taken a cap
tive to Quebec, where he was kept for nine months, during
all of which time his family were ignorant of his fate. At
one time the' Indians, who were frequent and troublesome
visitors, informed Mrs. Fox " that her husband had been
killed because he was not a good King's man." Mrs. Fox,
half in fear, and wishing to read their faces replied, "that
if he had not been a good King's man he ought to have
been Killed." The Indians looked at each other and laughed,
which Mrs. Fox regarded as sufficient proof of the falsity
of their statement, and thence thought her husband living.
The family were obliged to secrete whatever the Indians
might fancy in order to keep it from their depredations,
especially provisions. So watchful were they for plunder
that frequently the family were compelled to pass the whole
day without food, and eat at night in the cellar. Finally
they would demand Mrs. Fox to bring forth her eatables,
and upon being refused, they would sharpen their knives in
her presence, thinking that this would frighten her to a
compliance. But she understood their game, and by being
resolute, saved her meagre supply. Should they discover
a hog or other bea.st, they would slaughter it, without con
sulting Mrs. Fox's interests in the least, but to tantalize her
the more would offer her a piece of the flesh.
One day two Indians came to her cabin and bade her give
them meal. Having but a mere pittance, and thinking
that they could not have the heart to take that from a suffer-
(«)

26
ing family, offered it to them. But she had over-estimated
their nobleness of heart. Taking it all — the last she had —
they squeezed it into a very small package then pointed
their fingers at her in fiendish derision, because she had not
given them more
Mrs. Fox was hopeful, and though her situation was a
most perilous one, she determined to await the return of her
husband. On a very cold night in December (19th) a call
was heard from the other side of the river, which Mrs. Fox
recognized as that of her husband, who had, at last, suc
ceeded in making his escape. The Indians had stolen their
canoe, and a raft could not be pushed across the river on
account ofthe ice, so he was obliged to encamp in the pines
which grew thickly on the Wysox plains, and spend the
night within call of the family. It was a night of suffering
for all. So intense was the cold that the river had frozen
over during the night. In- the morning he ventured across
it, and reached his family in safety.
He was not molested again until the party which captured
the Strope family came along. On their way down they took
Mr. Fox prisoner, lest he should give the alarm. He man
aged, however, to escape from them before reaching Tioga
Point. Danger from the Indians daily increased, and a friendly
squaw had given them warning.
Gathering some of his horses and cattle, with the aid of
an assistant*, Mr. Fox undertook to take them by land ;
*It is stated that Mr. Fox started alone with his stock, and procured the aid of a white man ,
whom he hired on the way. The assistant is said to have been killed by the Indians, while
Mr. Fox escaped uninjured.

27
while the family, with such effects as could be conveniently
loaded in a bateau, were sent down the river.
When in the vicinity of Dodge's island, Mr. Fox discov
ered a band of Indians crossing the hill in front of him. He
motioned his family to come ashore, when he abandoned his
stock, and got into the canoe with them. They secreted
themselves behind the island until the hostile party had
passed, when they again resumed their journey. It was
about the time of the Wyoming battle, and the river was
swarming with parties of hostile Indians. It seems almost
miraculous that they could have escaped. At one time as
they were passing along, they heard firing and cries on the
shore. A band of Indians had surprised a party* of whites.
What added to their danger, the babe, Rudolph, commenced
screaming. The mother tried to hush him, crammed leaves
into his mouth, and still being unable to quiet him, thrice took
him up to throw him overboard — a desperate, but apparently
only means of escaping detection. But the mother's heart
could not consent to the sacrifice. They succeeded in pass
ing the Indians, and reached Sunbury in safety.
After the Wyoming battle Mr. Fox came up the river
with Hartley's expedition to look after his interests. Upon
the return of the detachment, he went back to his family.
He remained at Suhburyf till the close of the war, when, in
1783, he moved his family to Wilkes-Barre, whence he and
four ofhis children proceeded to their old home at Towanda.
*Others state this was at the time of the -Wyoming battle, and as the family were passing
fhey saw two men, who had been scalped, making their escape by taking to their heels in the
direction of the river.
¦fRev. Juhus Foster states, "that Mr. Fox remained at Sunbury for a year or two," etc.

28
They came up in company with Jonathan Forsyth, who
pushed on to Binghamton
Here they found the buildings and stacks of grain which
they had left, in ashes. A bark-covered cabin was cons;truct-
ed, and other preparations made for the reception of the
family. When ready to return for the remainder of the
family it was proposed —
" A son and a daughter to leave on the plain,
'Till he could go home and return again.
The scvn discontented refus'd here to stay —
' Go back,' says Eliza, ' but I shall obey ;
I'd rather stay lonely, though woods are so wild,
Than hear you thus crying, undatiful child.'
" She watch'd their departure till long out of sight.
And then to her cabin, to spend a long night,
Now think of Eliza, contemplate the scene —
Alone in the woods, at the age of thirteen.
The time for returning was four or five days ;
' O ! may I endure it,' she fervently prays.
' And while thus so lonely I lie down to sleep.
My Heavenly Father, I pray my soul to keep V
" But when the days ended the time for return,
She watched for her father but watched still to mourn —
Five days all alone in this wilderness home,
' O, where is my father ! O, -why don't he come ?'
But doomed was Eliza to much longer stay,
Misfortune and sickness had caus'd a delay j
Twelve days now were added before his return.
And she in her cabin was still left to mourn.
" Each night when the twilight w^s gone from the west.
And all that were peaceful to slumber and rest ;
But wolves in great numbers were prowling around.

2fl
And made the woods echo with most dismal sound.
She kept the fire smother'd throughout the whole day,
As smoke might discover the place where she lay.
To the,red men, the Indians, who strolled 'round the land.
And she made a prey to a merciless band."-* >
" A more heroic undertaking could scarcely be proposed.
A young girl, on the spot where their buildings had been
burned, surrounded by savage beasts and liable to be dis
turbed by savage men, consents to be the sole occupant of
the premises for ten-f days, the time supposed to be neces
sary for the trip. But unexpected trials awaited her. The
¦ mother was found to be too ill to be removed, and a delay
of more than a month was unavoidable. Provisions ran
short with the little girl." * * "The Forsyths returned,
and called to see her, and tried to persuade her to go back
with them. This she stoutly refused to do, and they left her
some food, while she awaited the coming of the family."
The shrill scream of the panther and howls of the wolf at
night, added horror to her dreary situation in the wilds-.
Both these savage beasts had been heard upon her bark-
covered cabin, hoping to gain admission. One night as she
was lying upon her bed of hemlock boughs asleep, a pan
ther unceremoniously came in through her blanket-door,.
took the jerked venison from over her head and then left
again without doing her any harm. The animal was detect
ed by his tracks the next morning. When a short distance
*The above poem was written by EUphalet Mason for Elizabeth Means, while she was yet
living, and is no doubt accurate as to facts. It appeared in the Bradford Reporter, Sept,
26th, 1849.
•fFrom Kev. J. Foster's obituary of Deacon John Fox, in which thefacts do not fully corrobo
rate those of Mr. Mason.

30
from her cabin one day, the sound of footsteps suddenly fell
upon her ears. She was greatly alarmed at first, thinking
that Indians were coming. Peeping out from behind a tree,
she saw an enormous pack of wolves advancing, and, as she
remarked, " her fears were gone" Picking up a pine knot,
she struck it against a tree, making a sharp, ringing noise,
which frightened the gray denizens quite as much as she had
been, and they turned and ran off as fast as their legs would
carry them. "She kept her post for about three weeks,*
when, after eating the last of her provisions, and seeing no
prospect of relief, she set out to meet the family, or find a
hut where she might procure some food. She had proceed
ed but a few miles, when, at Gordon's island, she discovered
the boat with her family slowly ascending the river. The
moment of delivearnce from peril was not only a moment
of pleasure, but of pleasantry. The father inquired ' Where
are you going?' ' To Wilkes-Barre, to get something to
eat,' replied the daughter. She was taken on board, and
they reached home after an absence of five years."
From this time the family lived in comparative security
and comfort. Sometimes, however, the crops failed. At
one time they were several weeks without grain or garden
vegetables. Like shephards of old, they lived upon the
milk and flesh of the flock. A boat-load of grain passed
down the river in the meantine. Money was out of the
question, and Mr. Fox offered to exchange a cow
for a barrel of grain, but was refused. Wintergreen
*The time was exactly seventeen days.

31
berries were about the only fruit of the forest, and upon
these and milk the family subsisted for four weeks.
When the rye was far enough advanced that it could be
rubbed out of the head, they gathered of it, boiled and
added it to milk, which made a dish, as the children after
wards expressed it of " the most delicious food they had
ever tasted."
A root found in the low lands and known to the early
settlers as " sweet cicely" furnished considerable nourish
ment, while the " island cherries" were a luxury
At this time the nearest milling point was Wilkes-Barre,
and moreover, it required strong men to pole a boat up the
river. Therefore Mr. Fox was required to resort to the
Indian's or Yankee's invention in preparing his grain for
food. When Mr. Fox came to Towanda the flats were covered
with thorn trees and other timbers, save an occasional
opening, where the Indians had burned away the trees and
grown their maize. Upon settling Mr. Fox set assiduously
at work in clearing his land and preparing it for cultivation.
Before the Indians had driven him off his possession, he had
made considerable progress, afforded horsesj cows, etc., and
indeed had really begun to enjoy himself in his wild and
isolated home.
After returning, in 1783, he occupied the original site for
a few years then built another and better log house about
twenty rods west of the brick house standing near the rail
road crossing at the nail-works. The great overflows that
sometimes occurred in those days, no doubt drove him to

32
the hill-side. Here in this lot, where Mr. Fox resided until
his death, is the orchard yet standing and bearing fruit,
which lie set out with his own hands.
The career of this interesting character, the man who
dared to strike the first blows of civilization in " old Brad
ford" (to-day with a population of sixty thousand persons,
and one of the most progressive and influential counties in
the Commonwealth) was brought suddenly to a close March
4th, 1806. It being spring Mr. Fox concluded to have a
mess of fish. Consequently he repaired to the river a short
distance above the mouth of the creek, where he ventured
out on the ice to cast his line in a hole. The ice being
thin it gave way with him, and being unable to get out with
out aid was drowned. The place to this day is familiarly
known as " The Fox Hole." Rudolph Fox, the hero and
bold pioneer, was born in Germany, March 29th, 1739,
O. S., married Catherine Elizabeth Miller, a German
lady, and as already stated came to Bradford county from
the Mohawk Valley in 1770. He was a man of heroic
mould, having all the elements that combine in courage
and physique to make a man equal to the test in a wild
country, inhabited only by Red men, and the other savage
denizens of the wood. He was short and thick-set, a regu
lar German, both in figure and language. He, however,
acquired the English vernacular, but spoke it very brokenly.
In religion he was a Methodist, as were all the family save
Deacon John. Mrs. Fox was born May 4th, 1748, O. S.,
and died suddenly April 3, 1810. She is described as "a
large fleshy lady, weighing over two hundred pounds.

33
possessed of a kind and noble heart.'' In sickness she was
ever ready to administer to the wants of the afflicted, and
at the instance of her death, the good Samaritan was on her
road to care for the sick.
This heroic couple are buried at Cole's, where a plain gray
stone marks their resting-place
Unto Rudolph Fox and Elizabeth Miller were born fifteen
children, ten girls and five boys, viz : Catharine, Mary, Phil
ip, Elizabeth, Dorothy, Daniel, Rudolph, John, Anna,
Eleanor, Susanna, Abraham, Margaret and Christiana.
Catharine Fox (born Nov. 9, 1764,) married Henry, son of
Sebastian Strope, one of the first settlers of Wysox.
Mary Fox {^oxn 'SiQ.^t. 7, 1766,) married Jacob Bowman,
one of the first settlers of Towanda. She reared a large
family and died in the township of her childhood. May 23,
1 841, and is buried beside her husband at Cole's.
Philip Fox {born 'Si^'^t. 12, 1768,) lived in Ohio for some
years, subsequently returned to Towanda, where he died
with his brother, John. He is also buried beside his parents
at Cole's.
Elizabeth Fox {\ioxn Sept. i, 1770,) was, without doubt, the
first white child born in Bradford county. She was a real
heroine, and were the many incidents connected with her
life woven into a stor}',. they would make a novel, unsurpass-
ing in interest. All her ypars, save about five, were spent
within a mile and a-half of the spot of her birth. She lived
to see the forests give way to broad and fruitful fields —
" And where once, so dismal, she heard the wolves yell,
Joyous to her ear, long after, came the sound of the church-going bell."
(H)

34
Prosperous villages had sprung up all around, the " iron-
horse " rattled over the rails, and forty-three thousand peo
ple had increased the number (in the county) since she was
born. The Indian had gone to the far West, atid where once
he roamed, she listened to the rattle and rumble of the ma
chinery of progressive man. Her abode had changed from
the bark-covered cabin to the cottage, supplied with allthe
comforts of her earthly wants.
Witnessing so great a change in a lifetime, it is hardly
necessary to say that her " reviews " were listened to with
great interest by young and old alike
She was united in marriage with Wm. Means, Esq., the
first settler of Towanda borough, whom she survived many
years, aftei" rearing a family.
In her closing days she took great comfort in perusing
the sacred pages of her Bible. So zealous was she to know
the Holy Book, that she learned to read after she was sev
enty years of age, there being no opportunity of obtaining
an education in her younger days.
After a long and useful life this good woman passed peace
fully away, July 21, 1851. Her body is sepulchred inthe
family burial ground on Second street in Towanda village.
Dorothy Fox i^orn Aug. i, 1772,) married a Mr. Town-
send, of near Penn Yan, N. Y.
Daniel Fox {born Aug. 27, 1774,) went to Ohio, became
wealthy and died there.
Rudolph Fox, fr., (born Sept. 24, 1 776,) also went to the
" Buckeye State " and died at Cincinnati.
Deacon f ohn Fox (born Oct. 31, 1778, at Sunbury, Pa.)

35
married Mary, daughter of Gordon and Mary Chapman Fow
ler, of Monroe, Oct. 21, 1802, and occupied the homestead.
His biographer says of him : " John Fox was a man of great
energy in business, of public spirit and social virtues. His
Christian character was quite as prominent as any other
trait. He was early impressed with a sense of eternal
things, and indulged hope in Christ at the age of fifteen years.
He first joined with the Methodist church, and remained for
a short time. Mr. Fox subsequently joined the Congrega
tional (as it was then called) church at Wysox and held the
office of deacon. He with others united in the organization
ofthe Presbyterian church at Towanda and was one of the
first ruling elders." Mr. Fox was an economist (as all the
early settlers had to be) and amassed a fine property.
Considering the state of the country at this time, it will
not appear incredible to state that he grew to manhood with
out the knowledge of letters, and learned to read after his
marriage. His wife had been a school-teacher — the first in
Monroe. Mr. Fox died April 15, 1855, and his wife (born
March 31, 1777,) Jan. 17, 1858. They are buried in " River
side Cemetery." Their marriage was blessed by the follow
ing-named children :
Olive ^ (born Oct. 24, 1803,) rfiarried Thomas Elliott, for
many years one of the most prominent merchants of To
wanda. Mrs. Elliott is yet living and is a lady of fine intel
ligence and memory, considering her years.
Miller, (born Aug. 23, 1805,) for some years a civil en
gineer, occupied a portion of the " Foxchase " farm (said to
be the first land patent in Bradford county), where he died
March 20, 1885. For biographical sketch see Appendix.

36
Mary (born June 20, 1808,) married Wm. W. Goodrich,
of Owego, N. Y., who for some years engaged in business
at Towanda.
fohn Marvin (born Nov. 5, 18 10) occupies a part of the
homestead, and is one of the most thrifty farmers in the
township. He has been an industrious, hard-working hus
bandman, and is a highly respected citizen. He was joined
in marriage with Miss Alvira A. Baird, of Chenango coun
ty. N. Y.
Priscilla Brunette (born June 13, i8i3)married Rev. Julius
Foster, for twenty-seven years pastor of the Presbyterian
Church at Towanda. She died Sept. 2, 1842, and is buried
at "Riverside."
Hiram Chapman (born July 11, 1817) married Miss Eliz
abeth Taylor of Standing Stone ; occupied a part of the
homestead ; died Sept. 29, i860.
Anna Fox ifioxn Oct. 24, 1780).
Eleanor Fox (born Oct. 24, 1782) also married a Mr. Strope
of Wysox.
Susanna Fox {fyorn Feb. 15, 1785) married Nathan Farr,
who resided in Towanda for a few years, at an early day,
but subsequently moved west.
Abraham Fox (born March 30, 1787) married Nancy,
daughter of Jonathan and Sally Fowler, of Monroe. The
last years of his life were spent upon a farm at Liberty
Corners, where he died. He is buried in the Liberty Cor
ners Cemetery.
Margaret Fox {^o'cn Feb. 12, 1798) married Amos Goff
(brother of " William") of Monroe.

37
Delia Fox (born April 4, 1791) married Wm. Goff of
Monroe, and is buried at Cole's.
Christiana Fox l\ioxn — , 1793) married a Mr. Grant of
Penn Yan, N. Y.
The Bowman Family. — Jacob Bowman was a German,
and no doubt one of the New York Palatines. He came to
the county and settled on the Towanda Creek before the
Revolutionary War. Upon the breaking out of hostilities
he remained loyal to the Crown of England, and when the
war clouds began to darken in the Susquehanna Valley, he
moved to Canada, leaving his son Jacob in possession of
the farm. Like many others in the county, " Jacob'' was
led to believe that King George was right, and accordingly
joined the British and Indians. From this circumstance he
gained the appellation of " Tory Bowman," by which name
the old people generally speak of him. After the war he
returned to the county and settled the farm* now occupied
by his grandson, B. F. Bowman, on the east side of Towan
da Creek.
Mr. Bowman was a man of enterprise, and was licensed
an "inn-keeper" at the August session of the Luzerne
County Court in 1801. In the assessment made for Towanda
in 1809, he has a store, tavern and mill. Originally he
built a one-story house, but having increased his business
by putting in a stock of goods, he added a building (framed)
* He received a warrant for a tract of land on the east side of the Towanda Creek, at its
UDuth, Feb. 1, 1793. The survey waa made December, 1803, and the patent issued June 27,,
1805. Also, an agreement is made between the Asylum Co., and Jacob Bowman, "inn
keeper," Dec. 31, 1803, for the sale of a tract of land, bounded by Jacob Bowman and
Beuben Hale, it being a part of a tract surveyed to John Singer on a warrant dated July 1,
1T84.

38
of two stories. To enlarge his patronage, he established a
ferry near the mouth of the creek across the river. He
also put up a distillery and manufactured " whisky."
" Bowman's " became a place of note, and was a favorite
rendezvous for raftsmen. Mr. Bowman did a flourishihg
business for several years, and at one time it was a question
whether he or his brother-in-law, Wm Means, would suc
ceed in establishing the place of more importance.
His demise occurred at the homestead, June 21, 1845, at
the age of 86 years, 3 months and 27 days.
The children of Jacob and Mary Fox-Bowman were : —
George, Jacob, John, Daniel, Mary, Rebecca, Hannah,
Susan and Harry.
George married Orace Miller and resided upon the place
now occupied by his son, Leroy Bowman, where he died
April 30, i860, aged 72 years, 2 months and 14 days. Mrs.
Bowman died Dec. 8, 1876, aged 86 years and 5 months.'
They are buried at Cole's.
facob, fr„ (born Dec. 16, 1791) married Sally Rockwell,
sister of Abner C. Rockwell, of Munroe, and succeeded to
the ancestral estate, where he died Oct. 18, 1874. Mrs.
Bowman, (born Jan. 3, 1791) died Aug. 16, 1874. They
are buried at " Riverside."
fohn, married Peggie Rolls and lived in Ulster, where he
died. '
Daniel, born March 29, 1797, married Sarah A. Daugher-
ty (Dorety), and lived upon the place now occupied by his
son. Orange Bowman.' He died Dec. 13, 1875, and is buried
at Cole's. Mrs. Bowman was born June 20, 1797, and is yet
living.

39
Mary married Wm. McGill, of Towanda, always lived '\n
the town of her nativity, and died June 29, 1849, aged 59
years, 7 months and 25 days. She is buried beside her hus
band at Cole's
Rebecca (commonly called " Beckie ") married James
Watts, an early resident of Towanda borough. She is buried
in " Riverside " cemetery.
Hannah married Henry (" Harry") Fausey, a shoemaker,
for some years a resident of the township. She died Nov.
20, 1837, aged 35 years, 9 months and 22 days, and is buried
at Cole's.
Susan married Means Watts, a brother of " James," and"
resided in the township until her death. She is buried at
" Riverside" Harry died when a young man.
facob Grantier*, a German, came from Schoharie, N. Y.,
and settled on the Towanda creek in about 1784-85. Hi.s
log housef stood about eighty rods south of Maj. Hale's
present residence ; and it will be remembered that it was
here that Rev. Thomas Smiley was tarred-and-feathered by
the " Wild Yankees " in 180?. In a deed J, dated March 7,
1802, Mr. Grantier transfers his claim to Reuben Hale, and
removed to Canton with his family the same spring, where
descendants of the name may yet be found.
*The name is sometimes pronounced by the old people as if it were spelled Granadier, but
Mr. G. wrote it as above. '
¦fFrom the narrative of Mrs. Dodge wee Mary Wythe : ' ' Mr. Grantier first settled tlie place-
now occupied by H. L. Scott, his father-in-law. Tabor, living with him there. He sold out
to a man named Brown and moved to the other side ofthe creek."
.tAn article of agreement batween Jacob Grantier and Beuben Hale, dated Jan. 7, 1801,
reads: "I, Jacob Grantier, do this day promise to deed to Beuben Hale the whole of my farm

40
The Scovell (or Scoville) Family. — Elisha Scovell, with
his family, removed from Connecticut to Exter, Luzerne
County, Pa., whence Janies, Silas and Orr (sons) found their
way into the State of New York, and settled at " Mud
Creek," where they remained for a short time only. From
here they come to Towanda in about 1788, and purchased
lots in Claverack under the Connecticut title.
fames and Silas purchased a possession of a man named
Smith, who " farmed a little and preached a little" as neces
sity required or occasion afforded. They at first located on
the " Means property " west of the nail-works, where Silas
built and occupied the first, or one ofthe first, framed houses
in the township. James returned to Luzerne county, and
Silas kept " bachelor's hall," until 1796, when he married
Abigail Harris, of Luzerne county. Pa.
Orr purchased and settled the place now owned and
occupied by H. L. Scott, Esq. He married Miss Polly,
daughter of Ezra Rutty of North Towanda, and moved to
Canton near the beginning ofthe present century, and sub
sequently to Indiana where he died.
aud possessions, it being the place which I now live on, containing 300 acres, with all the
privileges and appurtenances belonging thereunto (including an island lot of 31 acres) ; and
further promise to execute to the said Reuben Hale on the 1st day of December, 1801, etc.
And I, the said Beuben Hale, of the second part, agree to pay the said Grantier $20 on the
signing and sealing of this agreement; and $300 the flrst day of December next, $53 of it to be
cash and sixty dollars in whisky, the remainderto be paid in neat cattle or grain, at the com
mon going price. I further promise to pay the said Jacob $53 in cash and $147 iu neat cattle
or grain (aa above) one year from the 1st day of next December. Also $53 in cash and $147 in
neat cattle or grain (as above) two years frora the 1st day of next December."
Witnesses; ' (Signed) Jacob Ghantier,
Reed Beockway, Beuben Hale.
"Williams Lee,
Ezra Alqar.

41
Soon after his marriage, Silas moved to the place of
his son, Harry, and lived in a log house a short distance
above Mr. Scovell's present residence. This building he
afterwards tore down and re-erected on the very site of the
dwelling which Mr. Scovell now occupies, the last, " being
the fourth house in succession on the same ground, two
having been burned. Mr. Scovell employed his time most
diligently in the improvement of his farm, and in earning
few_ dollars outside as opportunity would permit. He gen
erally drove three ox-teams, and used to make trips with
them to the " Lake country," taking mill-stones, and bring
ing back salt, which then sold for thirteen dollars per barrel.
There was but little money in circulation, and this was, in
deed, very hard to get. A cow was worth only ^8 and a
horse $$0. Milling had to be done at Wilkes-Barre, and it
was only by earnest scrabbling that those daring men of
the woods got along. They were required to practice the
utmost economy, and yet they were hospitable and ready to
share the last parcel with each other. Mr. Scovell was not
the exception, and his house was ever the home ofthe Con
necticut emigrants, sometimes for weeks together, while
they were looking about for a place to make a home. He
left a fine property at his death in 1824, which is yet in pos
session of the Scovell family. Silas Scovell was born
March 18, 1763; married June 4, 1796; died June 28, 1824.
Abigail Harris, his wife, was born March i, 1774; died
Feb. 28, 1855. Their remains are supulchered at Cole's.
Their children were, Pheebe, Peter H., Harry, Calista, Caro
line, Silas, Joseph Jenkins, and Abigail.
(I)

42
Pheebe (born March 9, 1799) married Nathan Stevens of
Stevensville (dead).
Peter Harris [horn Feb. 26, 1801) married Olive Ackley
of Tuscarora, and occupied a portion ofthe homestead, now
the property of Mrs. Wolfe (dead).
-Harry {horn Feb. 13, 1803) married first Sarah Court-
wright, of Exeter, Pa., and after her death Elizabeth Titus,
of Smithfield. He succeeded to the place which he now
occupies, and is yet a gentleman of much mental and physi-
sal vigor.
Celista(horn Nov. 24, 1804) died unmarried June 28, 1824.
Caroline (born Sept. 27, 1806) married H. S. Frazier of
Wyalusing (dead).
Silas, fr., (born Oct. 14, 1808) married Maria Dill of
Sullivan county, and occupied that part of the homestead
now owned by his son, G. W. Scovell. He died Oct. 18,
1852. foseph fenkins (born Nov. 4, 18 10) married Harriet Tay
lor of LeRaysville and occupies a part of the homestead.
Abigail {horn Feb. 14, 1817) married E. Reuben Delong
of North Towanda.
Richard Goff was perhaps originally from Connecticut,
but is said to have moved to Towanda directly from Una-
dilla,N.Y. The dateof his advent into the lownship is not ex
actly known. In the assessment made for " Wysocks," 1796,
he had eleven acres of improved land and one hundred
fifteen unimproved, and four head of cattle Hence, we
would conclude that he located in about 1794. His farm
was next to the Monroe line, adjoining Jared Woodruff's, on

43
the south side of the creek ; and his house was near the
creek, some distance off the road leading from Rockwell's
to Bowman's. Mr. Goff died upon the homestead. May 19,
1829, aged 84 years, and is buried at Cole's. His wife, Phoebe
Hubbel, was a sister of Mrs. Samuel Cranmer. She died
Dec. 29, 1836, aged 72 years, and is buried beside her hus
band. The children of Richard and Phoebe Goff were — William,
Humphrey, James, Amos, Sarah (" Sally") and David
William married a daughter of Rudolph Fox and settled
on a portion of his father's place, his house being on the
main road next above his brother's, Humphrey. He subse
quently moved to Canton township, where he died.
Humphrey married Miss Eunice, daughter of Sheffield
Wilcox, Sr., one of the pioneers into Albany. He resided
in Albany township for a short time, then returned to To
wanda and occupied a portion of the homestead until 1840,
when he moved to Liberty Corners and there remained until
the time ofhis demise.
William, Humphrey and Amos Goff were drafted into the
war of 1812. They returned after a month's absence.
The Goff estate passed into the hands of the Hales, Maj.
E. W. now owning the same.
foshua 'Wythe was an ofificer in the war for American In
dependence, and served his country faithfully under Wash
ington, during those seven trying years. He was a resident
of Boston, and was burned out in the great fire of that city
about 1 79 1, and soon after removed to the lake region of
central New York to find a home and retrieve his fortunes.

44
Here the family were sorely afflicted with the ills incident
to that region, and on his recovery sufficiently to enable him
to travel, he came to Towanda, in 1794, in his pursuit of a
more favorable locality for a home He purchased* a farm
of 250 acres on Towanda Creek oi fohn Heath, who had made
the original possession and was living upon the same. The
location is well known as the George Bowman place.
Mrs. Wj'the, formerly Mi.ss Elizabeth Brewer, of Cam
bridge, died in i805t, and Mr. Wythe subsequently returned
to Boston, married a second wife and emigrated to Ohio.
Having selected a home, he sent for his children and all,
save Mary who was about to be married, joined him.
The children of Joshua and Elizabeth Wythe were —
Susanna, who married a Mr. Leonard and moved West ;
Elisha, who married Nancy Salisbury, of Monroe, and re-
, moved to Delaware county, Ohio ;
foshua, who married Hannah Pond, and went West with
his brother ;
George, who learned the printer's trade in Harrisburg,
thence moved to Pittsburg and subsequently to Kentucky ;
Harriet, who married John Bates and lived in Covington,
Ky; Mary, who married, first Daniel Gilbert, second, Major
Oliver Williams Dodge ; Prentice ; Francis ; Nancy ; Eliza
beth; Henry; Fanny.
Mr. Wythe died at Cincinnati.
* Heath transferred in December, 1792, but Wythe, perhaps, did not take possession until
1794. Heath was a settler before the year 1786.
t She is buried on the flats of Mr. Bowman, the railroad passing over her grave.

45
Nathaniel Heacock came to Claverack previous to the
year 1786, and lived next to Mr. Heath. "Heath's land
joined Heacock's farm westerly." Who these two men were,
or what became of them, is not known.
Elijah Head moved in on pack-horses from Dutchess Co.,
N. Y., sometime between 1790 and '96, and settled on what
was afterwards known as the Daniel Bowman place. He
planted the orchard still standing on that farm. Becoming
tired of the privations ofthe new country, he determined to
look for a more favorable location. For this -purpose he
went up into the State of New York, where he was acci
dentally killed. His widow afterwards married Henry Salis
bury, Esq., of Monroe. George Head, Sr., also from Dutch
ess county, with a large family settled in Monroe before
1796. fob Irish came from Columbia county, N. Y., on or before
the year 1796. He at first settled on the " Patton place,"
which he afterwards sold to Capt Geo. Alger. He was a
man of natural talents and became somewhat noted as a pet
tifogger. He was also a Methodist preacher for a short
time. In matters pertaining to the township he generally
took an active part. He married Elizabeth, daughter of
Henry Salisbury, of Monroe Their children were —
Henry, who married Polly Schrader, of Monroe, and moved
West; Jedediah, who married Mahala Arnout, of Monroe, moved
to Mauch Chunk and became a man of considerable promi
nence ;
Betsy, who married Ebenezer Titus, of Smithfield ;

46
Susan, who married Ephraim Ladd, Jr., of Albany ;
Catharine, who married Isaac Ellsworth and moved west;
Polly, fob, George, and Ferdinand (or Frederick). The boys
all left the county.
Mr. Irish died April 5, 1825, aged 52 years, and his wife
May I, 1836, at the age of 63 years. They are buried at
Cole's. Capt. George Alger " learning that a fortune could soon
be had by investing in the rich lands found in the Susque
hanna Valley in northern Pennsylvania, sold his mill prop
erty at Chatham, Columbia county, N. Y., and set out to find
the new Eldorado." He arrived at Towanda in 1800 (or
1 801) and purchased of Job Irish the farm since know as
the " Alger place," or better known at this date as the
" Patton farm." He was a man of enterprise and soon after
locating upon the farm, erected a framed barn and set out
fruit trees. Through untiring industry it was not long
before his farm was well improved and stocked. He was
not only a pains-taking husbandman, but as well was a
skillful cooper, and supplied the neighborhood with bar
rels, churns, etc. Mr. Alger also furnished the people, even
to the head of the creek, with pewter spoons. He had a
set of moulds, with which he could manufacture these table
pieces. He had been a sea captain for fourteen years. Mr.
Alger did not live many years after coming to the country.
He died between 1809 and '12, and was buried a short dis
tance from his double-log house in his garden. His wife,
Sarah, who survived him several years is buried beside him.
Two daughters came to Towanda with them. Lois married

47
Edsell Carr and moved to Ohio ; Irene married, first, Joseph
Brown, who occupied the homestead for a time, and after
his death Moses Carter. Mrs. John Cranmer (daughter of
Mrs. Steel nee Phoebe Alger,) who is yetlivingat the age of
82 years, spent her childhood days with Mr. and Mrs.
Alger. The Alger property finally passed into the hands
of John Mintz.
Reuben Hale, a native of Glastonbury, Conn., having ar
rived at full and active manhood, caught the ardor of the
Connecticut people in going to the rich and beautiful Sus
quehanna Valley ofthe west to make a fortune and a home.
A brother had already settled on the Juniata. He made
him a visit, then pushed on to Tioga Point to examine the
country, and pay his respects to the family of Isaac Tracy,
former acquaintances in the " Land of Steady Habits."
While here, he was induced to buy a tract of land lying on,
Towanda Creek, near its mouth. This was deeded to him
by George Wells, June 14, 1799. He subsequently made
several additional purchases of lands adjoining, and became
the sole owner of the " old saw-mill" on Towandee Creek.
On the 27th of February, 1803, Mr. Hale was united in
marriage with Miss Wealthy, daughter of Isaac and Eliza
beth Rogers Tracy, of Tioga Point. He moved into a log
house which had been occupied by the Doughertys. This
building stood about seventy rods southwest of Ma].
Hale's present residence, near the creek. Here he lived
until 1 8 10, when he erected and occupied the spacious
mansion well known as the Hale residence. The location
is a most pleasing and sightly one. A few rods below is

48
" Indian Point," a natural fortress, which was yet occupied
hy the Red men when the first white people came to the
township. In i8io Mr. Hale was appointed the first postmaster of
Towanda. He was a man possessed of fine judgment, and
developed a good business. Among other things, as was
the custom in those days, he operated a distillery. Being
¦ frugal, he earned a handsome property, which he left to his
children. He was prominent among the citizens of the
county, and for several years served the people as a Justice-
of-the-Peace Mr. Hale's demise occurred at the homestead January 30,
1825 He was born Feb. 6, 1773.
Wealthy Hale, born Jan. 15, 1777,' was a lady of refine
ment. She was one of the first school teachers in Towanda.
She died April 12, 1854, and her remains repose beside
those of her husband in Riverside Cemetery. The children
of Reuben and Wealthy Hale were : Eliza, Nancy, James T.,
Reuben W., and Elias W.
Eliza, born Nov. 27, 1804; married Gen. Wm. Patton of
Towanda; died July 9, 1841.
Nancy,\>oxn March 14, 1808; married Benjamin Spees-;
died Feb. 6, 1832.
fames Tracy, born Oct. 14, 18 10, became eminent as a
lawyer, jurist, etc. For biographical sketch see Appendix.
Reuben White, born Jan. 24, 18 15, was a young man of
much promise; died Nov. 3, 1835.
Elias Wellington, born Dec. 13, 18 16, married Mary J. Tay
lor, of Glastonbury, Conn., and occupies the patrimo-

49
nial estate. For several years he was interested in
lumbering and milling. He is a successful farmer
and business man, and one of the directors of the
First National Bank of Towanda. Having been appointed
Major of militia by Gov. Porter, he is popularly known as
" Major Hale." In 1850 he was appointed deputy U. S.
marshal, and as such enumerated the census of Towanda.
In 1864 he was chosen presidential elector for this Con
gressional district.
The children of Maj. E. W. and Mary J. Hale are five
The eldest son, James T., a graduate of Lafayette CoUege,
studied law with Rodney A. Mercur, Esq., of Towanda, and
was admitted to practice in the several courts of Bradford
county in 1879. Wishing to grow more rapidly in his
profession, in the summer of 1884 he went West and lo
cated at Duluth, Minn. Here his abilities were at once re
cognized, and so popular had he become that at the end of
nine months he received the appointment of Judge of the
Municipal Court to fill a vacancy — a rare honor conferred
upon a man of so few years. Benjamin T., the second son,
is also a member of the Bradford county bar, and an enter
prising business man of Towanda.
— The old orchard upon the place of Maj. Hale is said to
be from seeds which Reuben Hale procured of the French
refugees, which they brought from France
The Singers. — Casper Singer of Philadelphia, according
to his own deposition, " came to his tract of land* lying on
* There is recorded in the Register's OfBce at Wilkes-Barre, *'a patent from the Common
wealth to Wm. Geisse of Phila., dated June 21, 1786, for a tract of land called Geissela-nd
(J)

50
the Towanda Creek, in the township of Wysocks, in the
year 1791, built a house, and proceeded at great expense to
clear and fence the same, upon which h.e lived four years,
unmolested " The exact spot of Mr. Singer's home is not
known; but it was undoubtedly on the south side of the
creek, somewhere on the farm of Maj. Hale. On a map
made in 1794, near the mouth of "Towandee Creek," is
marked a saw- mill, called "Singer's." This was the same
mill that was afterwards owned by Lewis, Wells, Hale and
others ; and it would be most reasonable to suppose that it
was owned by Singer at that date, and that his house stood
near by.
In the assessment made for " Wysocks" in 1796, Casper
Singer has 24 acres of improved land, 96 unimproved, two
horses and a cow.
In the desposition of Mr. Singer made at Philadelphia
Nov. I Ith, 1796, he states " that in the same neighborhood
were living (179S) Orr ScoweW, foseph Gee, Jacob Bowman,
Jacob Grantier, Joseph Wallace, Michael Krause and Stephen
Strickland, on lands taken up under Connecticut title." The
locations of Scovell, Bowman and Grantier have been given.
on the south side of Towanda Creek, below and adjoining land of Casper Singer, and also
bounded in part by Wm. Morrison's land — the said tract was surveyed to John Singer, May
8, 1786, who conveyed to Geisse June 10, 1786. December 27, 1787, Wm. Giesse conveys to
Casper Singer the same tract. March 11, 1794, Casper Singer sells to Hon. John Nicholson
one lot near the mouth of Towanda Creek, and a number tracts on the same creek. Some of
these tracts subsequently become part of the Asylum Company's lauds. May 21, 1792, Ru
dolph Fox sells tu Gasper Singer a part of the Fox Chase. July 13, 18U0; the heirs of Casper
Singer sell ti John and Abraham Singer of Philadelphia, a lot on Towanda Creek adjoining
Peter Markoe, it being a part of a lot settled by Rudolph Fox. .\pril 2, 1802, Abraham Singer
sells to John Singer his interest in the said lot." A part of the land described was in certified
Claverack, when Connecticut titles prevailed. ,

51
Strickland at that time, was living on the Cole place in
Monroe, but who Gee, Krause and Wallace were, and the
places of their settlement, are problems which we have
been unable to solve.
Nathan Farr (son-in-law of Mr. Fox) also undoubtedly
lived on Towanda Creek for a time. He had purchased
under Asylum Company, but sold to Reuben Hale in 1805.
In 1806 he bought a lot of Rudolph Fox, but sold it again
the same year to John and Daniel Fox.
fames Davidson was an early settler in Claverack, under
Connecticut title, coming thereto in about 1794. He located
near the nail works, on a tract of landknpwn as the " Means
property.'' Here he remained until about 1 809, when his
title was transferred to Wm. Means. Mr. Davidson then
removed with his family to Bainbridge, N. Y , where he sub
sequently died. He lost his first wife in Towanda, and after
wards married the " Widow Loomis." The children result
ing from his first marriage were Richard, George, James and
Lydia (Mrs. Patchin). Richard married Miss Thankful,
daughter of Wm. Finch, of Towanda, and was the father of
Benjamin Davidson, a resident of Towanda township. He
remained in the township until afteir his first wife's death,
then married Polly Frisbie, of Monroe, and emigrated to
Ohio, where he died.
By his second marriage James Davidson had a son, Hen
ry, and a daughter.
Henry was quite a prominent business man and died in
Ulster. The daughter was the mother of Judge Long, of
Burlington.

52
David Blanchard v/s.s An inhabitant of Towanda in 1799.
He for a time lived above Mintz's, on the left-hand side of
the Monroeton road In about 18 17 he left with his family.
Mrs. Blanchardis said to have been an ardent Methodi.st.
Pearly i^' Parley") White came to the township in or before
the year 1801. He began on the Daniel Bowman place, and
lived there until 1819, when he sold out and went West. He
is well remembered by many of the old people. As was the
fashion in those days, he wore " buckskin trousers," and it
is said of him that he sold his to buy his wife a looking-
glass. It was a privation to him, but no doubt a gratifica
tion to Mrs. White.
Reese Stevens was also a resident of Towanda in 1801.
He married the " Widow Neeley," and lived upon the Geo.
Bowman place for a few years. Here he died, and is buried
on the flats near the railroad. By occupation he was a
shoemaker. The Doughertys. — " William Daugherty" was assessed in
" Wysocks" in 1796, and is no doubt the Dougherty living
near the mouth of Towanda Creek when Mr. Hale made
his purchase. Here was a mill, which from reliable evi
dence he, at least, operated for a short time In about 1800
he established himself at Greenwood, and opened a house
of entertainment. He also built a saw-mill there and did a
prosperous business. He was an Irishman, and had moved
from Northumberland county. " Samuel Daugherty" was
a son. They moved west in 1841.
fames M. Daugherty, a brother of William, came from
Milton, Northumberland county also, but not so early. He

5.3
lived on the run above Mr. H. L. Scott's and died there.
He was twice married before moving to Bradford county.
Ofthe first children a son, George, and two daughters, one
married Daniel Bowman and is still living, the other Wm.
Vandike Of the second set of children Eliza married a
Mr. Haxton, of Canton, and Anna remained single.
Daniel Gilbert, a native of New London, Conn., when a
child three years old, nioved with his father's family to the
Wyoming Valley. From here Samuel Gilbert found his
way into Bradford county, at first settling for a short time
in Wyalusing township, thence moving to Asylum, located
upon the farm, which has ever since been owned by the Gil
berts — a great grand-son, Oliver A., being the present pro
prietor. In 1808, Daniel married Miss Mary Wythe He pur
chased a lot of her father, Joshua Wythe, and settled upon
it the same year. In 18 10, he built the house and barn yet
standing upon the place, the former being occupied as a
residence by Mr. Leroy Bowman. In 181 3, Mr. Gilbert
traded for the Dougherty property at Greenwood. This he
sold in 1816, and purchased the " Mintz place," where he
remained until 1827, when he again sold and moved to the
'• Edsall Carr" place. Here he died April 13, 1835, at the
age of 52 years. Mrs. Gilbert afterwards married Maj. O.
W. Dodge, who died in 1845, In 1861, Mrs. Dodge moved
to Franklin and lived with her son. Nelson, until the time of
her demise, Dec. 9th, 1882, being nearly 92 years of age.
Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert are buried at Cole's. Of their four sons —
Nelson (born Dec. 24, 181 1) late Jury Commissioner, and

54
Well known citizen ofthe county, resides in Franklin ; fohn
in Nebraska ; and Samuel in Franklin.
fohn Mintz purchased the Alger property and came
thereto in 1812. He was a man of considerable enterprise.
Soon after coming to the place he opened a house of enter
tainment. His hotel stood above the road on the rise of
ground near the creek. Below the road, opposite the house
he built a saw-mill. This was supplied with water brought
through a race Very frequently the stream was dry and
the mill without motive power, whence the people called it
the " Dry Saw-mill." Mr. Mintz took an active part in
local politics, and in 181 5 was the candidate for Sheriff on
the " Merino ticket." In Towanda he received 60 votes
against 45 for Spalding (Federal), and 30 for Tozer (Dem
ocrat). Dr. Caleb W. Miles, who located in the township as early
as 1 8 14, lived on the road leading to Bowman's, between
Humphrey Goff's and Mr. Hale's. "He was a reliable
man, and counted a good physician for the time." Wm.
Means induced him to Towanda, and built him a house on
the lot, where John E. Fox's residence now is. Here he died
in about 1828 ; and he and his wife are buried in the Mean's
ground on Second street. Dr. Miles was the father of Geo.
Miles, who at one time had a watch shop in Towanda.
Horatio Ladd, a native of Connecticut, emigrated from
the East in 1800, and in that same year went up the
South Branch into Albany with an exploring party, and cut
the first brush heap in that township. He remained upon
the Scott place for five years, then moved to his possession
in Albany, being one of the pioneers there.

55
fames Roals lived in a log house on Welles's flats, a few
rods below the Towanda Creek bridge. His name appears
for the first time upon the assessment rolls in 1809. The
family finally moved up into the State of New York. The
Roals children were^-John, James, George, William, Polly
and Lovina.
Elias Thompson had the reputation of being " a capital
shoemaker, but was a drinking man." He was an inhabi
tant of the township in 1809, and lived on the " Foxchase "
flats. He moved to Monroe and died on the John Mingos
place. William Thompson was assessed in " Wysocks " in
1799, and " William Thompson " and " Daniel Thompson "
in Towanda in 1812.
fohn Felton, " the first constable " of Towanda (1808), was
a resident in 1799. From notes on Claverack — "Orr Sco
vell sells lot No. 4 to John Felton (July, 1799,) and Felton
again to Scovell (Dec. 15, 1800, also Oct., 1802)."
fames Lewis, whose early history is romantic (see Mon
roe), upon selling out his interest in a grist mill and lot of
land in Wysox to John Hinman in 1793, came to Towanda
Creek, made a purchase, and is said to have erected the
original saw-mill at Hale's. He was a millwright, which
would substantiate the claim, but whether he built the mill
for himself or others is a question. Apparently, his having
done the mechanical work gave him an interest. On the
9th of May, 1798, for a consideration of .^125 Pennsylvania
currency, he sells a one-fourth interest in a saw-mill and
300 acres of Ijnd, " between Jacob Grantier's and Jacob Bow
man's, to Stephen Strickland," his wife, Mary, joining with

56
him in executing the deed. Strickland conveyed to Silas
Scovell, and Scovell to Reuben Hale (1803).
Lewis lived in Towanda village for a few years, or rather
where Towanda village now is, then moved into Monroe
where he died in 1822. His son, Timothy Harrison, born in
1798, near the Episcopal church, is said to have been the
first white child born within the limits of Towanda borough.
Lorenzo Hovey was a lumberman and also lived at Hale's.
By a contract dated Aug. 23, 1800, Reuben Hale leases to
Lorenzo Hovey and Adrian Manville a certain tract of land
and a grist-mill and saw-mill, for a term of five years. In
the assessment of Towanda for 1809 he is rated with two
cows, two acres of improved land, four unimproved, and one-
half saw mill.
Isaac Sutton was a resident of t'ne township as early as
1812. By occupation he was a carpenter, and lived in the
vicinity of the' " Dry Saw-mill." He was one of the first
constables of Towanda.EARLY SETTLER.S OF SUGAR CREEK.
Under the rule of the Susquehanna Company, the owner
of a township was obliged to have a certain number of actual
settlers upon his grant within a certain time, or the deed was
forfeited. Captain. Solomon Strong, ofthe State of New
York, but living for a number of years in the Lackawanna
Valley, and Jeremiah Hogaboom, ofthe city of Hudson, N.
Y., were the principal owners of the township of Claverack
and managers of the settlements. They immediately, after
the declaration of peace, began to exert themselves to pro-

cure settlers for their township, and in the years 1785-6-7
several families came in and located on Sugar Creek.
Among the first of these was the Rutty family.
Ezra Rutty, a gentleman of Dutch descent, came from
Pawling's precinct, Dutchess Co., N; Y., to Sugar Creek in
1785. Mr. Rutty and his eldest son each took up a hundred
acres* known as lots numbered 46 and 47. He also pur
chased three hundred acres, being numbers 41, 42 and 43,
on a proprietor's right laid to Amos Franklin and by various
conveyances to claimant. These five hundred acres com
prised what has been known for a century as the " Rutty
farm," and which has been in the occupancy of the descend
ants of the pioneer' ever since.
When Mr. Rutty came to North Towanda, there were yet
a few friendly Indians living up Sugar Creek on what are
now the flats of David Rutty. Willows grew profusely in
the rich, marshy ground along the creek, and these they
gathered and constructed into baskets. The squaws took a
great liking to Mr. Rutty's little son (Ezra), and would carry
him about in their baskets, sometimes to the amusement but
more frequently to the alarm of the mother- The Indians
grew corn, which they buried to keep through the winter.
*The Commissioners under the Compromise law of 1799; where the claim was made on
the firound of settlement, required proof of the settlement. It was shown, and Judge Cooper
says assented to generally and proved by the deposition of Abial Foster, that Strong's condi'
tions of settlement were that one hundred , acres were granted to each person who became an
actual settler previous to a given date. On this ground Mr. Eutty preferred his claim for two
hundi ed acres. On the Commissioners' docket is this entry : " Abial Foster depose to claim
ant (Ezra ButtyJ aud his son coming into Claverack under Strong and Hogaboom, in 1785."
Henry Salisbury deposes that, in 1785, Strong mentioned to deponent the names of Rutty and
his son as among the settlers then in Claverack.

58 •
Mr. Rutty, upon locating, built a log house about twenty
-rods southwest of where his grandson, Ezra 3rd, now resides.
After a few years he built the large frame house now occu
pied by his grandson, and there lived until the time of his
death. This quaint old mansion — one of the oldest residences in
the county — is well preserved and contains its original doors
and floors. It has been the home of five generations of the
Rutty family. After the new house was built the log house
was converted into a distillery.
Soon after coming to the township Mr. Rutty started a
nursery, and many of the old orchards in the neighborhood
were taken from it. He not only grew apple trees, but peach
and plum trees as well. Mr. Ruttj^'s orchard was the oldest
for miles around, and in the fall the early settlers were wont
to make Mr. and Mrs. Rutty evening visits and enjoy eating
fruit with them — a luxury which was most bountifully pro
vided. Mr. Rutty was a man of industry and enterprise, and made
property ; but while he succeeded well, at first he endured
many privations. The first summer provisions were short.
He would work until becoming faint from exhaustion; then
go to the hou.se and drink sparingly of their supply of milk,
and only food. When his strength seemed to come back to
him, he would resume his work as earnestly as before.
In the assessment for Towanda township in 1809, Ezra
Rutty and Ezra Rutty, Jr., are rated with a framed house, 4
horses, 2 oxen, 4 cows, a distillery, 80 acres of improved
land and 380 acres of unimproved. The assessment of Sam-

m
Uel Rutty, who was rated with 30 acres of improved land
and 220 acres of unimproved, was set over to Ezra Rutty,
Jr. Mr. Rutty died in 18 13 and Mrs. Rutty five years subse
quently. They are buried in " Riverside Cemetery."
The children of Ezra and Anna R^itty were — Samuel,
Rebecca, Orrilla, PoUy, Anna, Esther, Martha and Ezra.
Samuel lived in Canton township at the headwaters of the
Towanda Creek ;
Rebecca married Martin Stratton of North Towanda ;
Orrilla married Garner Carpenter of North Towanda ;
Polly married Orr Scovell, who moved from Canton town
ship to Indiana ;
Anna married Mr. Smith of Watertown, N., Y.;
Martha married Ozias Bingham of North Towanda.
Esther married Eleazer Aliis of Aliis Hollow ;
Ezra, fr., married Polly Bloom of Burlington, and suc
ceeded to the homestead. He was one of the foremost far
mers of the county, raised wheat in large quantities, and
took it by the ark-load down the river to market. For a
few years he also did a considerable lumbering, but discon
tinued that business in about 1814. His doors were always
open, and his house a favorite resort for raftsmen. Mr.
Rutty had a big place in his heart for the distressed and
poor, and will long be remembered for his true kindness of
heart and generosity. He was a successful and enterprising-
man in business, and a firm believer in Universal Salvation.
His life was gentle and his friends many. He died at the
homestead June 12, 1855, aged 74 years, and his wife, Polly,

60
May 25, 1824, at the age of 38 years. They are buried at
" Riverside." Unto Ezra and Polly Rutty were born —
Weltha, who married Henry Strope of Turlington ;
Anna, who married, first, John Gillion of North Towanda,
and afterwards Nathan Coon of the same township ;
Lois, who married Roderick Granger of North Towanda ;
David, who married, first, Margaret Granger, and subse
quently Emeline Granger, resides upon a portion of the
ancestral estate ;
Polly, who married Stephen Vroman of Granville;
Betsy, who married George Taylor of Owego, N. Y.;
Patience, who married Dr. Edward Mills of Ulster ;
Ezra jrd, who married Ellen Wilson of Wheeling, Va.,
occupies the homestead. Lois, David, Patience and Ezra
only are living.
The Smiths. — From notes of Judge Cooper, Commis
sioner in Claverack in August 1802 — "John Smith on be
half of the legal representatives of Jonas Smith, deceased,
claims 200 acres, part of numbers 69 and 70, bounded by
the river and Sugar Creek, Jehiel Franklin swears : that
fonas Smith came in as a settler, under Hogaboom and
Strong, seventeen years ago last summer (1875). Isaac
Foster swears : that he was employed by Strong & Hoga
boom to procure settlers about fifteen years ago (1787) and
that there was a written contract, which he has now lost ;
that about seventeen years ago, on the application of Jonas
Smith, he (Smith) and his eldest son, Nathan were admitted
as settlers at 100 acres each. The heirs of Jonas Smith are
Marcy Smith, and Nathan,Joseph, John, Charles, Jesse, Lydia

61
and Sarah Smith." Jonas Smith was assessed in " Wysocks"
in 1799, hence he must have died between that time and
1802. " Pheebe Smith," widow oi fohn Smith wa.-i residing
upon a tract of land now in part included in the Mills estate,
when Edward Mills came to the township in 1809. Her
house stood above Mr. Mills's upper barn near a spring.
Mrs Coolbaugh states — " that Mr. Smith was frozen to
death while hunting. The children were: Mercy, Fanny,
Betsy, Pheebe Isaac, and John- The eldest was nearly a
young lady when we came in. Mrs. Smith married Lemuel -
Landers and went west in about l724-'25."
From Mrs. C.'s statement it is quite probable that " John
Smith," deceased, was a son of Jonas Smith, and occupied
the original Smith estate. Of the widow Smith's children —
Mercy married Lemuel Landers, Jr.;
Fanny married, first, a Mr. Lane of Burlington, afterwards
John Gustin of Burlington ;
Isaac married Lucretia Elliott and for a While occupied
the homestead ;
fohn married Arabella Granger and lived in Ulster;
Daniel Guthry was also an early settler in the Sugar
Creek region. His name is on the list of settlers, who came
to Claverack within the years i874-'85-'86, which was sworn
to by Jacob Bowman. Jehiel Franklin and Ezra Rutty also
depose to Guthry's settlement. He conveyed his claim to
Abial Foster in 1791, and perhaps left the country, as his
name is not found afterwards on our records.
The Fosters. — Isaac Foster, a native of Massachusetts,
with two sons, Abial and Rufus, came into Claverack in

62
1785 as settlers under* Hogaboom and Strong. They re
ceived a hundred acres each, but afterwards added to the
original grant. The lots which they occupied lay between
the river and Sugar Creek, and also extended across the
latter stream and included what is now known as the Mills
farm. These three pioneers found their way ir;to the town
ship by coming down- the Susquehanna in a canoe; Mr.
Foster built a log cabin on the public road leading to the
ferry, near the railroad crossing, and at once began his
struggles with the savagfery of nature. At the time of his
advent into the township, there were no roads, except In
dian trails, and very few improvements. Clearing away the
forest, preparing the land for raising crops, was the business
of the first few years. Abial and Rufus were single young
men, and resided with their father until after their marriage.
Their father was a mechanic and gave attention to the man
ufacture of spinning-wheels, both little and big, and hence
did not give his time as diligently as they in the improve
ment of their lands. Such was the character, the persever
ance and the resolution of these men that the original tract
taken up by them was mostly cleared by the family.
The struggles with pioneer life, with its loneliness, its
poverty and wants of society, were all met with that forti
tude, which has since characterized the progeny of Isaac
Foster. And more it is due the name to say that the Fos
ters have ever been an important and influential family in
the township.
Issac Foster was twice married, his first wife dying several
* They made Mr. Foster agent to procure settlers to come upon theiK land.

63
years before his removal from the east. His second
wife was Abigail Franklin, a sister of Deacon Arnold
Franklin of Sheshequin. She died June nth, 1812, and is
buried about fifteen rods northeast of Myer's mills, on a
rise of ground where a barn is now standing. After this
Mr. Foster lived with his two sons ; and died at the resi
dence of Abial, March 26, 1821, aged 84 years. His re
mains repose beside those of his wife, Abigail, the exact
spot of his grave being unknown.
Abial Foster settled the farm now owned in part by E. H.
Horton, Esq. He was considerably famous as a huntsman
in the remote history of the town. In 1795 he was united
in marriage with Miss Mary Means, a sister of Wm. Means,
Esq. He was a man of much enterprise, and at an early
day built a saw-mill on the very site of " Myer's Mills,"
and a year or two subsequently the original grist-mill on
Sugar Creek. Afterwards he became interested also in mills
at the Pail Factory. For several years " Foster's mills "
was the most important milling point for many miles. He
did an extensive business, and after combining lumbering
and milling with farming for a number of years, he quit the
first two and became an earnest 'tiller of the soil. He died
upon the farm, which he had taken .up nearly a half century
before, Aug. 10, 1841, aged 77 years He was a man much
esteemed by his neighbors and was a member of the Pres
byterian church.
Mrs. Foster was a kind and noble mother and a devoted
Christian. She died Nov. 3, 1855, at the age of four score,
and is buried beside her husband at " Riverside."

64
The children pf Abial and Mary Foster were —
Betsy, who n\3.rr'ied Maj. Gerould, of Smithfield ; Samuel
B. occupied a part of the homestead and died unmarried ;
Nancy married Judson Gerould, of Smithfield; Electa mar
ried Wheelock Bingham, of North Towanda ; Polly married
Elijah H. Horton, who occupies the homestead ; CelindA
married Owen Campbell, of Burlington ; William H. married
Matilda Alloway and occupied a part of the homestead;
fane married Geo. Upright and died in Illinois.
Rufus Foster settled adjoining his brother, the farm now
being divided into several lots, the railroad company owning
most. The old plank house which he erected more than
three-quarters of a century ago and occupied until the time
of his death, is still used as a residence. Mr. Foster was
one of the early members ofthe Presbyterian church of Wy
sox, and for many years one of its ruling elders. He was twice
married, his first wife, " Phoebe," being a daughter of John
Franklin, of Plymouth, who was killed at the battle of Wy
oming. His second wife was " Sarah Lewis." Mr. Foster
'Sied Sept. lo, 1832, aged 65 years, and is buried at " River
side," where his second* wife is also.
The children of Rufus and Pheebe Foster were — William,
who died when a young man, unmarried ; Rufus married
Aurilla Aliis, of Orwell, and occupied a part of the home
stead — he was the father of Hon. JameS Foster, a member
ofthe State Legislature in 1877-78, and a useful and highly
respected citizen of the township ; Elizabeth' married Maj.
"'His first wife is undoubtedly buried in the original grounds, which were started in North
Towanda near the mills.

6S
Jared Irlunt, of- Canton; Alfred married Patience Franklin,'
of Sheshequin, and occupied a part of the homestead; fohn
married a Miss Goddard, of Burlington, inherited a part of
the old farm,, but died at Canton. The fruits of the second
marriage was a son, Franklin L., who resides at Canton,
never having married.
Abraham Foster did not come to the township with his
father and brothei-s. He married Millie Strope of Wysox,
and for many years occupied the Smith place in North
Towanda. This he sold to Benjamin Goodwin and removed
to Canton, thence to the west, where he died. His children
Were —
Elisha who married Eleanor Carpenter of North Towanda,
resided in Burlington ; Nancy maried Curtis Frink and
lived at the Pail Factory ; William removed from Burling
ton to the west. There were several other children who
went west with the family.
William Foster also came to the township after his father
and brothers. He married Betsy Myer (sister of Isaac) of
Wysox, and lived on the place now in part occupied by J.
Hpsford. He sold to his son Myer and removed to Canton.
Unto Wm. and Betsy. Foster were born : —
Harry, who removed to Port Jarvis, thence to Patter
son, N. J.; Caroline, married, first, Frank Reveland, and after
wards a Mr. Eaton of Canton, where she still resides ; Myer
married a Miss Wright, sold out and removed to Canton; Betsy
married Rufus Mason and resides at Brooklyn, N. Y. ;
Hiram, when a. young man, started out for himself; Isaac
never married, lived at Waverly, N. Y.j William, when a
(L)

young man went to Brooklyn, N. Y., and succeeded in
establishing an extensive livery business.
A daughter of Isaac Foster (ist) married a Mr. Diven of
the State of Nev\- York.
foshua Bailey, a native of Orange Co., N. Y., born in 1770,
upon attaining his majority concluded to set out to setV his
fortune. Accordingly, getting together what money he
could, in the summer of 1791 he started for the Susque
hanna, which he otruck at Buttermilk Falls. Coming up
the river tp Wyalusing he found Mr. Bennett's family, whom
he had known in Orange county, and remained with them
until the following spring (1792), when he married a daugh
ter. Susan, and moved to the place which he had picked out
on Sugar Creek. In Mr. Bailey's search for land he passed
through where Towanda village now is. Here, he says,
" was a man living in a log cabin, a little south ofthe present
Court House. He had about four acres cleared, which he
offered to sell for forty dollars. But thinking the land poor.
I concluded not to purchase."
When Mr. Bailey went to his farm he found about an acre,
w'hich the Indians had cleared in their way ,_ by burning down
the trees. Corn-stalks were yet standing in their hills on
the flats, which the Indians had only previously left. He
set to work and built a cabin out of poles, and covered it
with bark. Fpr a floor slabs, about four feet long, were
split out of a big pine tree When the cold weather set in,
the cracks between the poles were mudded to make the cabin
as comfortable as possible. Mr. Bailey's home in the wild
woods was a desolate one.

" The gaunt wolf's ho-wl and panther's scream
Mqde hideous each night.
And virlves' and youthful maidens' hearts
Oft trembled with affright ;
Until at length they learned to share
That courage, stfern and true.
Which throbbed in every manly breast
When, this our land was new."
His nearest neighbor, Amos Bennett, his brother-in-law,
lived a mile down the creek, having moved in two years pre
viously. Beginning his battle in earnest with the proud old
monarchs of the forest^ he succeeded in clearing about four
acres the first year and planted the same to corn and pota
toes. He had a good crop, but there was no mill for many
miles where he could get his corn ground. So he resorted
to the Indian's invention and made a " samp-mortar " for
cracking corn, a very slow and laborious process.
The next year Mr. Bailey went back to Orange county and
brought with him on his return a horse, a cow, a heifer and"
a yoke of oxen, having depended upon his brother-in-law
the first year.
Wild beasts were numerous, and the hogs and sheep were
confined in strong pens at night to be kept from
destruction by the wolves, panthers and bears. It was not
a strange occurrence to see a deer bounding along pursued
by a wolf, in his mad determination to victimize the pretty
creature of the wood. Deer were very plentiful, and their
flesh was very acceptable for food, venison being about the
only meat that could be afforded. Surrounded, as he was,
by scores of savage beasts, Mr. Bailey stated that in all his
hunting and trapping he was frightened but once.

One morning Mr. Parmenter came to his house and asked
him if he had looked at his traps lately. He informed him
that he had not, and the two daring woodsmen started out
to make an examination. Mr. Bailey suggested taking
the gun, but Mr. P., .said^ he could despatch all the game
with an axe, and the firearm was accordingly left behind.
In one of the traps they found a huge bear, and as per
agreement Mr. P. proceeded to the spot to take his scalp.
Bruin stood as tall as a man, and prepared for battle. The
brave hunter aimed a blow at his head, but instead of hit
ting the mark. Bruin's strong paw knocked the axe out of
his hands. A handspike was then cut .and a new attack
made, which resulted as unsuccessful as the first. Bruin
had now succeeded in unfastening the chain and started for
his adversaries on double quick. They were not a little
frightened and made a hasty retreat. Luckily the claws on
the chain soon fastened and entangled the bear again, when
a third and successful charge was made, and Bruin killed.
The bear weighed over 400 pounds.
Mr. Bailey procured some apple trees of Mr. Rutty and
started an orchard. One row he named after the twelve
Apostles. " Judas" was cut down about twelve years ago,
and measured thirty-seven inches across the stump. Its
fruit is said to have verified the name.
Mr. Bailey spent his life upon the farm which he hewed
out of the wilderness, and his remains repose in the soil
which he cleared. He died Feb. 14, 1861, at the advanced
age of almost 92 years. His wife lies beside him in the
family burial ground. Thomas and Newton Bailey, grand-

69
sons, novir occupy the place. • The children of Joshu-a and
Susan Bailey were : —
Pruda, (born May 30th, 1795) who married Stephen
Avery, moved to Ohio ;
foshua, fr., (born Dec. 4, 1796), who married Polly
Gregg, lived on the homestead* and farmed and lumbered ;
Nehemiah, (born Jan. 2, 1797) who married Lydia Brague,
moved west;
Nathaniel, (born Feb. 5. 1801) who married Eleanor Car
penter, resided in the township ;
Anna, (born Aug. 20, 1802) who married Andrew C.
Gregg, resided in the township ;
Pheebe, (born April r, 1804) who married Austin Rundell,
resided in Burlington ;
Susan, (born Feb. 20, 1806) who married Wm. McNeal,,
lived in the township ;
/i3//f, (born Sept. i6th, 1807) who married Harry Cool
baugh of. Asylum ;
Mehitable, (born May 7th, 1809) who married Gordon
Goff, moved to Tioga county. Pa.;
fohn, (born Feb. 26, 18 12) who married Abigail Slater,
died in his country's service ;
Clara, (twin of John) who married Alfred Strope, of Rome
township ;
Enos, (born Dec. 26, 18 14) who married, first, Sabra Wil-
dox, second, Amy Strobe ;
feremiah, (born Nov. 19, 18 17) who married Electa Bald-
* His father at an early day had built a saw mill on Bailey Kun.

70
win, succeeded to the homestead. Of this family Clari,
Enos, and Jeremiah only are living.
Amos Bennett emigrated with his father's family (Amos
Bennett, Sr.,) from Orange county, N. Y., to Wyalusing in
about 1783. In 1790 he moved to Sugar Creek and settled
the place now in part owned and occupied by his grandson,
John Bennett. Mr. Bennett cleared a considerable part of
his farm and died thereon, Feb. 10, 1839, ^'^ the age of 73
years. His remains are deposited in " Union Bluff" Ceme
tery. The children of Amos and Amy Wilcox-Bennett
were : Amos, George, Thomas, Enos, Chester, Polly, Na
thaniel and Hannah.
Nathan succeeded to the homestead, where he died ; Polly
married Enoch Luther of Burlington ; Hannah married,
first, Wm. Lee, second, Amos Coon ; Enos resided in Bur
lington ; Amos moved to Canton, where he died ; Thomas
also resided in Canton ; Chester remained in North Towanda.
Martin Stratton, a millwright and carpenter (born near
Hartford, Conn.), in about the year 1794, with a small kit of
tools upon his back, set out to make his fortune in the West,
Fate brought him into Bradford county. He took up quar
ters with Ezra Rutty, remained for about a year, then mar
ried his daughter, Rebecca. During this time it is probable
that he built the " old Rutty mansion " and the " Foster
house." In about 1797 he went up into West Burlington
and built a grist-mill for the Goddards, who gave him em
ployment for four or five years, when he again returned to
North Towanda with his family. He bought an improve
ment of Amos Bennett at the Pail Factory in about 1805,

71
one Seely having made the original possession, and occupied
the same until the time of his death. Having discovered a
good site for a mill on Sugar Creek, n few rods from his
house, Mr. Stratton in company with Cephas Stratton and
Jonathan Holcomb, erected a grist-mill*, with a single run
of stone, ju!;t back of where Mr. Barnes's saw-mill now is.
A considerable business was done for several years. In about
1809-10 a saw-mill was built, andits motive power furnished
from the same dam. Mr. Stratton, however, gave more es
pecial attention to the clearing and improvement of his farm,
in which struggles his wife and eldest children gave most
valuable assistance. Mrs. S. not only did her housework, but
she and her daughters would assist her husband in picking
and burning brush, and so anxious were they to get a start
that they would often continue this work until late at night.
Like the other pioneers, Mr. Stratton made the best of the
primitive mode of life and succeeded in earning a comforta
ble home, where he died Nov. 3, 1821, aged 63 years. Mrs.
Stratton's death occurred subsequently, and both are buried
at " Riverside." Martin, or " Capt. Stratton," as he was fa
miliarly called, was a very kind-hearted gentleman and was
much respected by his neighbors. He left the following
. children r
Hannah married Anson Simons of Ulster, and removed
to Indiana ; Betsy married John Bloom of Burlington ;
Mary married Geo. W. Simons, and also removed to Indi
ana ; Hiram married Olive Steward, occupied the home-
*Good authority states that the mill was only built by Mr. Stratton and was owned by Abial
Foster. Nowhere on the records can we find a mill assessed to Martin Stratton.

72
stead foi- a few years, thence removed to Ohio, and finally
to Missouri, where he died; Samuel, (born Feb. 19, 1808)
married Euphransia Foster, and still occupies a part of the
homestead ; Esther married Loren Kingsbury, of Sheshe
quin ; Caroline married John Muncy and removed to Indi
ana with her husband ; Martha, (born June 18, 1806) mar
ried Thomas Hawkins, and resides in Towanda.
Timothy, Cephas, and Surager Straton, brothers of Mar
tin, followed him from the East 'after a year or two. Tim
othy lived in the township for a few years then emigrated to
Ohio ; Cephas removed to Ulster township, thence to Ohio ;
Surager was a cooper, worked at his trade here a short
time then went west also.
Ozias Bingham, a soldier of the Revolution and native of
Connecticut, emigrated from Vermont to North Towanda in
about 1795-96* A brother, Chester, was an early settler
and land owner under Connecticut title in Ulster, and was
no doubt the means of Mr. Bingham's coming to the county.
In the spring of 1777 Mr. Bingham received a commission
from the Quartermaster-General to raise a company of team
sters for the Continental army, with a captain's pay and ra
tions. He joined the army at Peekskill, N. Y., and was an
nexed with, his company to the brigade commanded by Maj.-
Gen. Alexander McDougal. He was then marched to White
Marsh in Penn.sylvania, where he joined Washington's army
onthe 2d of October. On the 4th of October he partici
pated in the battle of Germantown. He continued in the

*He married Martha Eutty alter coming to the township, and their first child was born in
1797. He obtained a pension before his death.

artillery department at Valley Forge until May, 1778, when
he was sent into New England to forward to headquarters
the artillery which had been taken from Gen. Burgoyne.
Having delivered the artillery at White Plain.s, he obtained
a leave of absence on account of sickness and returned to his
home in Connecticut. His sickness continued until March,
1779, when he received a dismissal from service. Mr. Bing
ham had been married before the war and had a family of
four or five children. His wife having died, he left his chil
dren in the East and set out to find his brother in the new
country of the West, who was rich under Connecticut titles.
Whether he was captivated by the charms of " Miss Martha,"
or the new country with its flattering prospects, we are
unable to state. However, he married and made Bradford
county his home, end his remains repose in her historic
soil. After his marriage he moved upon a piece of land now
occupied by the " Wirlow Mauger." He was a skin-dresser
by trade, and worked at that business in connection withthe
improvement ofhis land His sons, u"pon becoming young
men, opened a little store at his house and received peltry
in exchange for goods. They afterwards opened a store in
Towanda and carried on lumbering in connection.
The last years of his life Mr. Bingham spent with his
daughter-ill-law, Mrs. Coolbaugh, in Wysox. His death oc
curred Feb. 9th, 1845, in the 95th year of his age, and his
wife, " Martha Rutty's," Nov. 16, 1826, at the age of 62
years. They are buried at " Riverside."
The children of ,Ozias and Martha Bingham were John
W. and George K. (M)

74
fohn W., marriqd Electa Foster, and remained'upon the
homestead, where he died in 1830.
George K., married Hannah Mills, and was associated
with his brother in business. He was drowned in running
a raft over Shamokin dam in 1831. His widow (Mrs. Cool
baugh) is yet living at the advanced age of a little more
than eighty years. She is a lady of endearing qualities,
and is possessed of a mojt remarkable physique and mem
ory. With her sunny disposition she looks upon the bright
side of life, and lives surrounded by grand-children and
great-grand-children. The Carpenter Family. — Elisha Carpenter was an early
settler on the place adjoining Mr. Bingham ; the Mauger
boys now occupy the farm. Mr. Carpenter died before the
year 181 2, (as the assessment for that year was made to his
widow, " Cynthia,") an.d is buried upon the place. Mrs.
Carpenter was distantly related to Mrs. Edward Mills, nee
Losina Stewart. Garner and Elisha Carpenter (sons) suc
ceeded to the estate. Elisha finally sold out his interest
and went West. The girls were Tamer, Mrs. Urial Holbert ;
Elinor, Mrs. Nathaniel Bailey ; Hannah, Mrs Elisha Fos
ter ; Mahala, Mrs. Iddo Ames ; fane, Mrs. John Packard ;
Rebecca, Mrs. Samuel Green ; Cynthia, Mrs. Benjamin
Chaapel. Mrs. Carpenter married a second time.
Edward Mills came to Bradford county in 1^08. When
he was an infant only three weeks old his father was brutally
murdered at Fort Griswold, a place that will long be remem
bered for the fiendish malignity of the British in Revolu
tionary times. While the gore of " the fathers" was being

spilled Mrs. Mills could distinctly hear the shouts of the
" red-coated demons" as they went on with their barbarous
work amid the cries of the unfortunates. The subject of
this notice was born at Bramford, Conn., Aug. 12, 1780
While he was yet a child his mother again married (a Mr.
Smith) and removed to the State of New York, on the Del
aware. Here Mr. Mills grew" to manhood and married Miss
Losina Stewart. Being desirous of having a home of his
own, and knowing of the opportunities that were offered in
the new country of the West, he started for Penn.sylvania
with his family in the spring of 1808. Arriving at Ulster,,
for the first year he worked the Capt. Cash farm, and in the
year following moved to Sugar Creek, and rented t)ie "Smith
place," where he remained until 18 14. Having purchased
a possession of Stephen Wilcox, he moved thereon, and
went to work in a most diligent manner in clearing up his
farm and cultivating the soil. He remained upon his farm
until his children had grown to manhood and womanhood.
When they began to- leave the paternal roof and settle in
other sections of the country, the father and mother being
somewhat discontented removed to Ohio, where Mrs. Mills
died, Oct. 29, 1847. After this sad event Mr. Mills removed
to Illinois, where he spent his last days among his children
and grand-children. He died at Winnebago, July 5, 1869.
Mr. Mills was a consistent and exemplary member of the
M. E. Church, and for some years was the only member
of that denomination in the neighborhood. In the days of
early Methodism in the county his house was the preaching
place apd the home of the itinerant. Mr. Mills was a prac-

76
tical common-sense utilitarian, and a gentleman much
esteemed. The children of Edward Mills and Losina Stew
art (born April i, 1785) are :
Stephen A., (born May 30, 1804,) married Amanda Fan
ning of Springfield, and resides upon the farm which, he
has owned and occupied for sixty years. His business has
been somewhat varied in lumbering, farming and hotel-
keeping. The stone house which he occupies was origi
nally opened as a hotel, and continued as such for a num
ber of years. Mr. Mills is yet a very active and clear-
minded gentleman.
Hannah S., (born May 20, 1805,) married first, George K.
Bingham, and afterwards Cornelius Coolbaugh of Wysox,
both of whom she survives.
Esther, (born Feb. 15, 1S07,) married Erastus Pratt of
Pike, moved West and is living with a second husband in
Missouri. Silas, (born Sept. 12, l8o3,) married Mary E. Aliis of
Orwell, and occupies the homestead.
Freeman, married Minerva Grace of Springfield, emigrated
to Illinois and subsequently to California, where he was
honored with high ofiice, and was prospering finely, when
his career was suddenly brought to an end by the kick of a
horse. Dr. Edward, (born March 21, 18 13,) married Patience Rut
ty, of North Towanda, studied medicine and located in Ulster
where he was in continuous practice for almost half a cen
tury. He is yet living in Ulster.
Garner C, (born March 17, 1 817,) went to Illinois when a

77-
young man, where he still i'esides, and is a prominent and
influential citizen.
Losina, (horn Oct. 26, 1819,) went to Ohio with her par
ents, married there and subsequently moved to Missouri,
where she still resides.
Stephen Wilcox was a resident of North Towanda in 1800..
He began on the place now owned and occupied by Silas
Mills. He sold out and left with his family about 1815..
His wife was a Campbell, of Burlington. Silas Andress was.
an early settler on the same farm.
Nathan Coon was born at Petersburg, Rensselaer Co., N
Y., July 3d, 1770, and married Bridget Tifft (widow of Rob
ert Tifft, a soldier of the Revolution). Mrs. Coon's maident
name was Bailey, and her birthplace was Richmond, R. I.
Both her father and grandfather Bailey served in the patriot
army, the latter being a Major. At the age of about sixteen
years she married Robert Tifft, who moved to Stephenstown,
N. Y., and there remained until his death. In 1799 or 1800
she married Nathan Coon, who removed to Unadilla, N. Y.,
thence in the fall of 1806, or the spring of 1807, to Sugar
Creek. He purchased a possession of one Seely and settled
thereon — the farm still being in the occupancy of the Coon
family. Mr. Coon was familiarly known as " Capt. Coon,"
a title which he gained by having been captain of militia. In
pioneer times necessity demanded that every man know
how to use the rifle. Mr. Coon was not the exception and
became 'somewhat famous as a woodsman. He followed
farming and lumbering till 1836, when he went to Illinois,.
where he died Dec. 6, 1859.

" 78
The children of Nathan and Bridget Coon were —
Nathan, (born Feb. 26, 1803.) married Anna Rutty, occu
pied the homestead, where he died in 1847.
Mary Ann, (born Apr. 14, 1810,) married Asa Miller and
removed to Illinois, where she died in 1859.
Anaziah, (born Sept. 28, 1812,) never married; died in
1843. Amos .5., (born Feb. 12, 1815,) went to Illinois in 1835,
and is still a resident at Marengo. He followed surveying,
then studied law and has been a practitioner since 1845. He
served two terms as State's attorney, was Provost Marshal
during the war. Register in Bankruptcy, etc. He was
his mother's twenty-first child. The others not herein named
died young.
The children of Robert and Bridget Tifft were — Abby,
Reuben, Judith and Elizabeth. Abby married John Simp-
kins and died in Tioga county. Pa. Elizabeth married Thos.
Bennett. 1
Bridget Coon was born June 22, 1768, and died in August,
1847, at Canton, Pa., where .she is buried.- Nathan Coon
was a brother of Timothy Coon, an early settler in Albany.
William Pepper moved up Sugar Creek and settled' the
Robt. Keene place, before 18 12. He 'had a large family of
boys and girls. From Sugar Creek he moved to Canton.
fonathan Holcomb bought a possession of Mr. Bennett,
perhaps not far from 1805. He sold to Pepper and went
West. Samuel Everet had a large, family and lived across tfte
creek on the Herda estate for a few years.

79
Stephen Horton, father of E. H. Horton, also lived at the
Pail Factory for a while. He also resided in other parts of
the township, and engaged in farming and lumbering. He
was of the Sheshequin farriily of Hortons.
Amasa Withey, asses.sed in 1812 as a "Whitesmith,"
married the widow Carpenter, and lived with her upon the
Carpenter place, where he died. He was rather, however,
a gunsmith. Lemuel Landers lived down on the flats, now included in
the farm of Charles Biles. In 1812 he was assessed with
50 acres of improved land and 50 acres unimproved. Hence
it is obvious that he must have been a resident of the town
ship some years before that date
Mr. Beardsley is remembered as having lived on th^
bank of the river, in a log house opposite- the island known
as " Beardsley's Island.''
Seneca Simmons resided upon the place now occupied by
Samuel Hawkins and others. He had a large family of
children. After several years he emigrated to Illinois.
Mr. Marks had a possession on Hemlock Run. His
business was that of a weaver, and he met the wants of the
neighborhood in his art.
fames Mauger, (Major) a Frenchman, moved to the place
now owned by John Divine in 1826. Both he and his wife
died upon the farm, his son William afterwards occupying
the place.
Roderick Granger, a na:tive of Suffield, Conn., having heard
such flattering descriptions ofthe Susquehanna Valley from
his father and brother, who had. already settled there, was

80
induced to come on to Ulster to examine the country.* Being
pleased he returned for his family, which he brought into
the county in 1809. He settled in Ulster township and
there remained for about sixteen years, then lived in Wysox
for three years more, until 1828, when he moved to North
Towanda and purchased the farm since owned by his sons,
Horace (deceased) and Roderick. When Mr. Granger moved
to his farm only a garden spot had been cleared, but by un
remitting toil the forests were made to bow, and soon neat
and fruitful fields succeeded. Mr. Granger died Nov. 7, 1848,
aged 69 years, while returning from election after voting for
General Taylor for President. His wife, " Almeda Dunlap,"
died Dec. 7, 1868, aged 83 years, 5 months and 12 days.
They are buried at " Riverside." Their children were —
Sophia, Mrs. Artemas King ; Harriet, Mrs. Jos. Menardi ;
Arabel, Mrs. John Smith ; Horace, married Matilda Van
dyke, and occupied a part of the homestead ; Adelia died a
young lady, unmarried ; Roderick, married Lois Rutty and
occupies a part of the homestead ; Lucinda, Mrs. Washing
ton Landrus ; Elijah, married Laura Luther and resides in
the township ; fohn, married Elizabeth Bennett and resides
in Cameron Co., Pa.
.fudson Gerould occupied the John Lane place for a time,
then moved to Smithfield.
Isaac Myer, who purchased the Foster mills, was a wide
awake, enterprising business man, and did very much for the
improvement of North Towanda. Upon^retiring from busi
ness he built a residence in Towanda village, where he lived

81
until the time of his demise. He was a member ofthe State
Legislature in 1835-36.
Stephen Powell, a brother of Joseph C, came to North
Towanda and purchased the Dr. Baldwin place about the
same time that his brother came to Towanda. He subse-
^quently moved West. ^
EbeTieser P. Clark was assessed in Towanda in 1812. He
lived near Myer's mills and afterwards in Towanda, thence
moved down the river opposite Wyalusing.
EARLY SETTLERS OF THE TOWANDA HILLS.
William Finch, a native of Connecticut, and a Revolution
ary soldier was the first settler on what is known as the
" Towanda Plills." During the war for American Inde
pendence he was captured and taken a prisoner to Montreal.
With the aid of his jack-knife he dug his way out of the
prison, and finding a canoe near by, he succeeded in making
his escape to the American shore. He kept secreted during
the day and traveled by night, without provisions. Finally
he could not endure an aching stomach any longer, and
coming to a house, where he saw no men around, he ven
tured in. His hostess proved to be a French lady, who
discerning his wants, gave him a loaf of rye bread. Upon
this, and the leeks which he found in the woods, he sub
sisted several days. His guide through the wilderness
was the sun and the moss on the trees After much suf
fering he finally reached the American army in safety, and
served until the war closed. He married and settled for a
short time at Danbury, thence moved to Unadilla, N. Y.,
(N)

whence he foundi his way into Towanda. Digging a canoe
out of a large pine log, he took his family, with such effects
as he possessed, on board, and floated down the Susque
hanna in quest of " those cheap lands that could be had for
the mere occupancy." He' landed at Bowman's eddy in
about 1798, built a cabin on Welles' flats and raised a crop
of corn. On account ofthe annual overflows, and thinking
that the heavy timbers on the hills would become very valu
able, he decided to pick out a farm on higher ground. Ac
cordingly he built a log cabin on the place of now Wm.
Welch, nioved in, and began his battle with the wild woods.
His hbme inthe wildernes.s was on the usual plan of archi
tecture in pioneer times. There was not a, nail in the whole
structure. It was floored with slabs of split pine, dressed
down as nearly even as possible, and covered with the
usual cob-roof The two doors were opposite, so that a
horse could be employed to draw in logs for the huge fire
place. A greased cloth was stretched across an opening
left in the logs for a window. This quaint dwelling was
, supplied with furniture of Mr. Finch's own manufacture.
The nearest mill of any importance being Wilkes-Barre, he
hollowed a white-pine stump, and with the aid of a spring-
pole and stone-pestle attached, cracked his corn for bread,
etc. As would many of the early settlers, as soon as Mr.
Finch had made an opening he planted apple and other
seeds and started a nursery. It was only a few years till he
had fruit of all kinds in abundance. Trees of ,his original
orchard are yet standing on the place and bear fruit.
Mr. Finch's usual mode of plowing was by having a boy

83
ride a horse hitched in advance of a yoke of oxen. Mr. Da
vidson, who waS reared in his grandfather's family, was gen
erally his plow-boy. He says : " One day as I was mounted
on the horse, grandpa holding the plow, I heard a disturb
ance among the cattle and told grandpa I thought a wolf
was killing one ofthe yearlings. We ran to th? spot, and
grandpa seized the large grey wolf, that was snapping and
fighting the ' critter,' by the hind-legs, and soon thrashed
the life out of him." Mr. Finch was a very strong man and
it is said of him that he could take a barrel of cider upon
his knee and drink out of the bung-hole. At the age of
seventy years, it is claimed that he could take a barrel of
cider by the chimes and put it in his cart. The woods were
filled with wild beasts, and Mr. Finch was required to build
, strong pens to confine his stock at night to keep it from
destruction. Necessity demanded the practice of the utmost
ecoriomy; hence Mr. Finch made his own liquids, and tan
ned both the leather which he manufactured into shoes for
the family and buckskin trousers for himself Being a
tailor by trade, he made the cloth into garments, which Mrs.
Finch had spun and wove. Mr. Finch's diligence was re
warded by plenty, and having paid for his farm, his closing
.days were spent in " honest comfort." , He was a gentleman
of religious convictions, and a devoted Methodist. He died
at the age of 86 years and is buried at Cole's. His wife,
" Mary Huxley," died when past eighty years of age and is
buried at the same place
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Finch were born —

84
Martha (" Patty"), who married, first, Thomas Green and
afterwards Lary Dunmore
William and Benjamin both died when young men.
Thankful, married Richard Davidson, of Towanda, had
one son, Benjamin, and died in 1807.
Binona, inherited the homestead and died in Ohio, while
on a visit.. When a young man of about nineteen years he
met with a serious misfortune- On " Cold Friday," Jan. 19,
1810, he had started for Fowler's to mill with his ox-cart.
When going down the dug- way the cart tipped over on him,
and being unable to free himself, his feet, which were ex
posed, were so frozen that the amputation of both was neces
sary. Andrew Gregg, horn in Ireland May 16, 1763, when thir
teen years of age emigrated to America with his father's
famil}^ Mr. Gregg, the elder, settled at Danville, Pa.,
whence Andrew joined Sullivan's expedition and came up
the valley. After the war he married Nancy Santee, of Lu
zerne county, and settled in Ulster, where he lived for a
short time only, then moved to North Towanda'not far from
the year 1800. About seven years later he made a posses
sion on the place now owned by his grandson, Francis
Gregg, and there spent the residue of his life in diligent toil.
He was a real hero in the wild--woods, and bore his part
faithfully and well. His house stood on the line of the old
State Road. He died April 25, 1846, and is buried upon
the place, as is his wife, who died May 17, 1838, aged 74
years. The children of Andrew and Nancy Gregg were — Esther,

85
who married, first, a Mr. Fanning, second, Thomas Brown ;
Peggie, married Squire Watts ; Polly, married Joshua Bai
ley ; Katie, died when a young lady ; Susan, married Delan-
son Campbell ; William, married Mary Ballard and resided
in the township; Andrew C, married Anna Bailey and suc
ceeded to the homestead where he died in 1865, and his wife
in 1872, the former aged 65 years and the latter y6 years.
Williston West was a settler on the Harry Decker place as
early as 181 2. He cleared up a considerable part of the
farm. For his second wife he married Miss Susan, daughter
of Benjamin Bosworth. He died very suddenly at the age
of about 80 years, and was buried at Cole's. The children
resulting from his second marriage were William, Andrew,
Harrison, Lorenzo, and Amy.
The widow married Jno. Haithorn, an Englishman. Amy
and Andrew went West with the Mormons.
Benjamin Bosworth, a soldier of the Revolution, and hat
ter by trade, came in from Boston and settled (about 18 14)
the place adjoining Mr. West's, the same now being owned
in part by Willi? Fisher. He died Dec. 27, 1847, inthe 94tb
year of his age, arid is buried at Cole's with a number of his
brave compeers.
Thomas Cox located on the place now occupied by Mar
tin Bowen. He was something of a hunter. His children
were — Hiram, Joanna, John, Nancy, Polly, Hannah, Delight,
Wellington and Usual M. Mr. Cox died in 1841, aged
almost 59 years, and his wife, " Susannah," in 1856, at a lit
tle more than 70 years.
Daniel Avery, a carpenter, lived on the place now owned

86
by Michael Deslane. His son, Stephen, who belonged to
the comical order, married Prudie Bailey ; a daughter, Polly,
married Williston West, Jr. The Averys went West.
Edsall Carr, a settler in Monroe as early as 1809, moved
to the place now occupied ^by John Bowman. He went West
in 1 82 1. His children were — Asenath, Cynthia, and John.
The first named married Francis French.
Frederick Fisher, >or "Maj. F'-''her," as be was familiarly
called, moved to the Towanda Hills in about 1827. He was
a man of ability, and held prominent offices in the township.
He was an active politician, a singing-master, and Major of
militia. At the husking-bees and political gatherings, his
voice was always heard. For a short time he was engaged
in the mercantile business with John Wilson, at Monroeton.
His son, Wallace, occupies a part of the homestead. Mr.
Fisher died May 14, 1857, aged 60 years, 6 months and 7
days, and his wife, " Dolly Cole," May 16, 1865, aged 66
years and 24 days. Their children were — John, George,
Marvin, Willis, Laura (Mrs. Mace),  (Mrs. Lyon).
Henry Mace came from Luzerne county with his family
in 1830. His son Henry H. (Hicks) became a very success
ful business man and left at his death in 1882, it is stated, a
property estimated at one hundred thousand dollars. His
sons succeed to his estate. Mr. Mace the senior lived to be
92 years of age. " At eighty he could take the floor and
dance like a poppet." A daughter, the wife of Benjamin
Davidson, is still living 'tn the township.
fohn fennings settled the place which H. H. Mace pur
chased.

87
William Smith lived for a few years on the place of now
Silas Shiner, fas. Potter occupied the place aftec Smith.
Daniel Gilbert, asalready stated, moved to the Carr place.
fohn Cranmer was one of the first hill settlers. He was a
son of Samuel Cranmer, one of the pioneers into Monroe.
He owned the place now otcupied by Enoch Luther. Mr.
Cranmer was an upright man, and an obliging neighbor.
He had a large and respectable family. Four sons gallantly
donned the. blue, and one nobly gave his life lo his country
while fighting under the Stars and Stripes.
William McGill, a native of Ireland and stone-mason by
trade, "to better his fortunes," in about the year 1795 bade
farewell to Hibernia forever, and set sail for " the land of the
free." For awhile he labored near Reading. In about
1802-3, he came to Bradford county and found employment
with Jacob Bowman ; and, indeed, the relations with the
family became so friendly that the charms of Miss " Polly "
(Mary) won his heart and ultimately terminated in matri
mony. • After his marriage he lived on the Creek for a few
years, then in 1823 moved to the hills back of Towanda,
where he ever after resided. Philander Ward- occupies a
part of the farm which he settled and improved. Mr. Mc
Gill was a man highly respected and was familiarly known
as "Uncle Billy." He enlisted in the war of 1812, but peace
being declared soon after, he returned after a month's ab
sence The light of his earthly existence went out forever, Sept.
15, 1855, at the age of yy years, 4 months and 5 days. His
wife had preceded him to the grave six years.

' The children of William and Mary McGill were—
Mary, who married Martin Moore, of Rome; Eliza, mar
ried Benjamin Smith, of Sheshequin ; Dennis, married Susan
Santee and occupied a part of the homestead ; William, mar
ried, first, Rachel Santee, and second, a Miss DuBoise ; he
lived in Towanda township for some years thence moved to
Illinois, where he died ; facob married Eliza Thomas, was
a shoemaker, and resided in Monroe ; fames married Eliza
beth Overpeck and resided in the township ; Marinda mar
ried, first, Edward Patterson, and afterwards, John Gorham,
of Le Raysville ; Hiram, W.. married Mrs. Emily Bowman,
nee Emily Sweet, and resides in Towanda village ; Adelia
married Byron Griffith of Susquehanna county. Pa.; Re
becca married Mallory Wolfe, of Luzerne county, Pa.
Ebenezer Herrick, a blacksmith, the Schraders, John,
Frederick and Harmon, the Deckers and others were among
the second lot of settlers on the hill.
Benjamin Davidson (born Jan 31, 1 807) is the oldest
native resident of the Towanda hills, having been a resident
ever since his birth. His life has been one of toil, and
though he has now almost reached four-score years, he says
" he can't remember the time when he could'nt take a
meal." His occupation has been that of a lumberman and
farmer, and with all his misfortunes, he has laid by an abun
dance for the comforts of old age. Mr. Davidson is a
bright and interesting gentleman, a kind and obliging neigh
bor, and a citizen of high standing in the township. In
i83ihewas united in marriage with Miss Emily Mace,

89
daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Mace. The fruits of this
union are :
¦ William, George, Henry M., Lucy A., (Mrs. C. H. Jen-
ning-s) and Ruba E , (Mrs. M. Bailey). William is a gentle
man of affluence, and ha.s a very attractive residence at Bol-
iver, N. Y. EARLY SETTLERS OF TOWANDA BOROUGH
William Means, the first permanent settler within the
present limits of the borough of Towanda, was of Scotch-
Irish descent. He was a son of Samuel Means, who was a
resident of Northumberland county. Pa., at the breaking
out of the Revolutionary war. Mr. Mean.s and his oldest son
fought in the patriot army. The former was wounded, and
before surgical aid could be procured, died from the effusion
of blood; the son never returned, and is supposed to have
been killed at the battle of Wyoming. The family remained
in Northumberland county until tidings came to the mother
of th,e approach of the Indians, when she took her chil
dren, one an infant only six weeks old, and, in a canoe, made
her escape down the river. They had scarcely embarked
when she saw her home in flames, but, fortunately, the sav
ages did not pursue her. The family soon after came back
to the homestead, but the mother survived her return only
a short time, and her children were scattered among
different families. The mother's maiden name was Clark.
It is stated that " when Rudolph Fox fled with his family
down the river, from the approach of the Indians, they fell
in with Samuel Means' family, and through them William
Means learned of the country about Towanda. Soon after
(0)

90
•
the war he came up to examine the land, and being pleased ,
with the country, settled here." Another says : " Mr;
Means commenced life as a boatman* on the Susquehanna.
In this manner he became acquainted with Elizabeth Fox,
whom he wedded in 1788,! and thus gained a good knowl
edge of the country. When married, by their industry and
economy, they were soon enabled to purchase a boat of"
their own. In 1794 the French people settled at Asylum.
Mr. Means made a contract to convey them, with their fam
ilies, from Harri.sburg to their new settlements, to receive
five dollars a day for himself, and two dollars a day for each
hand. A day was fixed upon for leaving Harrisburg, and
he arrived there at the time appointed and waited for several
weeks without their arrival. He then proceeded to
the city of Philadelphia, and found them preparing to start,
but not yet ready. They advanced him a sum of money
which enabled him to purchase a small stock of goods,
which were conveyed with their baggage gratis to Harris
burg. On arriving there, the French people concluded to
have a house built upon the boat. This he finally sold to
them, and became the overseer in erecting the house upon
it- On arriving at Asylum he found due him, in the aggre-
* In early years before the lines of improvement were even projected, the river was navi
gated by Durham boats, which carried freight along the length of the Susquehanna. By
this tedious and toilsome process provisions and goods were brought for the convenience of
the settlers. For two years or more Mr. Means waa engaged in the transportation of goods
for Judge HoUenback between Wilke '-Barre and Athens. After he became able to purchase
a boat of his own, Mrs. Means frequently joined him in his trips, and assisted in poling the
loaded boat up the river. ^
f Having located "a year or two before his maiTlage," would place his advent into the
county in 1786-'87.

91
gat,e, over one thousand dollars, besides the advance to buy
goods. This sum, with his merchandise and business at
home, laid the foundation, with subsequent industry and
economy for the large estate which he accumulated. Mr.
Means settled* on the bank of the river directly opposite
where the dam was built, and for many years kept a ferry
and distilleryt at that place He continued to live in the
log house until 1804, when he moved into the Red Tavern,
which had been erected the year before but not wholly com
pleted. However, before this he was an inn-keeper, being
licensed a " taverner" at the August Sessions, 1797, of the
Luzerne County Court. The Red Tavern (so called from
its beingvpainted red) was a two-story framed building, and
stood on the corner' of Franklin and Main streets, on the
same lot as now occupied by the Eureka buildings. The
store was kept in the old log house until 181 1, when it was
moved into the new house, an addition having been built.
This was the first store, and also the first tavern kept in
Towanda village. Upon the erection ofthe county in 18 12,
" the Red Tavern" was established as the place of holding
courts and so continued till the old court house was built
and occupied (Jan., 18 16). The court-room was on the
second floor, and the prisoners kept in side rooms adjoining,
during trial, the jail (log) then being located at Monroeton.
* His log house stood directly opposite where the Eureka buildings now are, on the lower.
Bide of Main street.
f The distillery stood almost directly east of the Red Tavern by a spring on the opposite
side of the street, and south of the road leading to the ferry. North of the log house was
the tavern stable : and west of the street was a large framed barn after the Dutch fashion.

In iSi6* Mr. Means built his commodious (then of the
most stylish plan of architecture) residence, j'et standing
on the corner of Main and Bridge streets, and there lived
until the tirne of his demise. About the same time he
erected a small building (about 18x20 feet) on the corner of
Main and Bridge streets, on the same lot with and, south of
his house and occupied it as a .store, till he went out of busi
ness, his son, William, keeping the hotel for a series of
years after 1816. Mr. Means was an extensive landholder.
He owned about 600 acres adjoining on the south by the
" Fox-chase farm," and extending northward to about
where Decker Bros, store now is. Besides he ov/ned sev
eral hundred acres at Greenwood, and 'other points. He
lumbered extensively and shipped his lumber in rafts down
the Susquehann.-i. In 1809 he built a saw-mill at Van
Gorder's on Towanda Creek, and afterwards a second one
at Greenwood. In addition to his lumbering business he
bought grain and shipped it in ark-loads to the lower coun
ties. After the improvement of the public highways, he
would load an old fashioned " Dutch four-horse wagon,"
with peltry, go to Philadelphia, and return with a load of
goods. It required nearly six weeks to make the trip. The
roads were very rough, and beset with dangers. To carry
on so much business and so successfully demonstrates that
Mr. Means was a man of untiring energy, endowed with,a
money-making faculty. He was a man of enterprise, and it
was largely through his influence that the county seat was
* This building was begun in the Fall of 1815, but not flnished until 181Q. Peter Bgner,
the designer and builder of the old court house, was the architect.

93'
located at Towanda, which for a short time was called in
his honor " MeansviUe," also " Williamston." By means
of his ferry, which was directly opposite the Red Tavern,
communication was opened with the east s'de of the river
and the place thus greatly benefitted. He was the first
magistrate of the town (commissioned Dec. 20, 1800) and
was generally known as " Esquire Means." In 1812, he
was also appointed the first postmaster of Towanda village.
He was appointed County Treasurer in 1815, and served
one term. Mr. Means brought his sisters* into the county,
one after anothe-, and gave them a home in his family. The
life of this active man was closed Oct. 3, 1829, at the age of
64 years. His body is entombed in the family burial
ground on Second street:
Mrs. Means, or " Grandma Means" as she was familiarly
called, survived her husband many years. Much has already
been said of this noble character, but before we shall have
finally passed her deeds and virtues by, a few more lines
will not, perhaps, detract from the value of our sketch.
After peace had been declared her relations with the Indi
ans were most friendly. She treated them very kindly, and
as tokens of their esteem they were wont to make her gifts
of little baskets, and other trinkets. Once, before her mar
riage, by her timely interposition, she saved the life of Mr.
Means At the house ot Mr. Fox he, unfortunately, seri
ously offended an Indian. The Red man raised his toma
hawk and was in the act of cutting him down, when Eliza-
* Betsy Meai.s married Adam Couley ; Ellen Means married a Mr. Diven, of New York ;
Jane Mea/ns married Francis Watts ; Polly Means married Abial Foster ; Nancy Means
married Dr. Adonijah Warner.

94
beth stepped in between them, and appealed to the Indian to
spare the white man, as " he was to be her husband." Not
forgetting her kindness — the wish was granted. Were it
not that this scene comes in a little too late, it would fur-^
nish the key to a first-class romance. As an appreciation
of the many kindnesses which she had received from the
Indians, at her death she bequeathed ^lOO to be used in
spreading tije light of the gospel among them. " Grandma
Means" had a big heart, and a number of boys, whose locks
are now silvered, will remember till the grave shall rest
them, how Christmas was made pleasant at " Grandma
Means's." On that day she would array herself in her
buckskin gown, with a high cap, to resemble Santa Claus,
I suppose, and the small boys of the village, being assem
bled, whom she had previously invited, she began her sport.
Taking the long-handled shovel, she would fill "it with
pennies, and after having held it over the fire-place until th.e
pieces were sufficiently warmed to be uncomfortable in one's
fingers, she would scatter them over the floor, it being un
derstood that each boy could have what he picked up. The
scrambling was the enjoyment to her, and so amusing was
the exercise that she would laugh tears in her eyes. The
recreation being over, the doughnuts and other delicacies,
suited to a boy's Christmas appetite, were brought on, and
disposed of according to his idea of the preserving art.
After " Grandma" and the little folks had enjoyed them
selves to their heart's content, with many kind words they
parted till the next Christmas. Mrs. Means was an ardent
thember of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and when

95
funds were being raised for the M. E. Church edifice at
Towanda, she was the most liberal subscriber. Her last
days were spent in peace and affluence, but it can never be
said of her that she was vain or ostentatious. The children
of William and Elizabeth Means were William, John,
Samuel, Celinda, Lucinda, and Eliza — other children died
young. William Means, fr., married, fir.st, Eunice Hewett, (sister
of Gurdon Hewett,) and afterwards Lydia Mathewson, of
Athens. He succeeded to a part of the patrimonial estate,
and for several years kept the " Red Tavern." He was the
father of Col. John F. Means, of whom a biographical no
tice is given in another part of this work.
fohn Means married Harriet Ballard of Burlington, lived
at Towanda and followed farming. Their children are
Samuel, a resident of Philadelphia, and William, who is liv
ing in New Jersey.
Samuel Means died when a young man.
Celinda Means married Gurdon Hewett.
Eliza Means married Nathaniel N. Betts.
The first wife of William Means, Jr., is buried at Cole's
beside her parents, and Mrs. John Means at " Riverside"
Ebenezer B. Gregory no doubt came to Towanda through
•the influence of " Esquire Means." When* the latter went
down to Northumberland county after his sister, Nancy,
afterwards Mrs. Dr. Warner, Mr. Gregory accompanied
them on his return. In the language of one who knew him
* This was, with but Uttle doubt, in the year 1791:. His name is first found on the assess
ment for 1799.

m
well, " he came in to be rich with Yankee titles in wild land,.
but only procured a squatter's claim, where the village of
Towanda now is." He lived in a double-log house near
the river, a little northea.st ofthe pre.sent residence of I. O.
Blight, on the same lot. The building was used as a house
of entertainment, and Mr. Gregory was licensed a " tav
erner" in 1802, (Jan. Sessions). He seems to have also en
gaged in the mercantile business for a short time, being
marked " merchant" on the assessment roll of 18 14. Mr.
Gregory was a man of education and " very much of a gen
tleman." His wife was an accomplished lady, and as early
as 1810 or 1811 establfshed a boarding school* at her own
house for young ladies and girls. " She was a strict Presby
terian, efficient, but an exacting teacher." Mr. Gregory
was one of the original proprietors of Towanda and donated
from his portion two lots for an academy, which were sub
sequently appropriated to private uses. • In about 18 17 he
moved to Owego, where Mrs. Gregory organized another
school, and he died on charity. Mrs. Gregory was thrice
married, Mr. Gregory being her last husband. Her maiden
name was Celinda Bingham, sister of Ozias.
fames Lewis located in the borough before 1798. He
occupied a log housef standing on the gulf near where the
Episcopal Church now is. In about 1806 he moved into-
Monroe, where he died in 1822.
Frederick Eiklor was also one of the earliest inhabitants.
* For a full history of this school see " Schools."
¦f Burr Eidgeway says: When I came to Towanda in 1803, James Lewis waa living on
the hank of the river near Overton's (now Blight's,) but afterwards sold out to E. B. Gregory
He had, without doubt, first occupied the house on the run.

97
He built and occupied a house where M. E. Rosenfield's
store now stands. While dressing flax one day, it caught
fire, and burned the house. He then moved to Rome.
fohn Schrader, a Hessian soldier who espoused the
American cause, came to Towanda in or before 1799. He
occupied a small board house, used both as a residence and
cooper shop, which stood nearly east of the Presbyterian
Church, near the site of McKean's hotel. After a few years
he moved to Greenwood and settled where the tannery
now is.
Nathaniel Talcutt was an early resident of Towanda and
" kept a little store"* His name is found for the last time
on the assessment rolls in 1809.
Adam. Conley,\ a blacksmith, came in from the West
^Branch and married Miss Betsy, sister of Wm. Means. He
built and occupied a framed house, near the corner of Main
and Pine streets, where Tracy & Nobles' block now is. On
the opposite side of the street, on the site of Stevens &
Long's store, he had his shop. After Mr. Conley's death
his widow moved to the head of Seneca Lake, with her son,
Clark, where she died. Their children were : Clark, Joseph,
John, William, Eliza, Mary and Jane.
Clark learned the tailor's trade and had a shop adjoining
his father's house. He subsequently moved to Ralston, Pa.,
ahd died there a few years since.
Abijah Northrup , (iam\Y\ax\y " Bij") before the year 1800,
* Mrs. John Cranmer, of Greenwood, now nearly eighty-four years old, says ; "Mr. Tal
cutt kept a little store above Mr. Means's." *
¦f Jesse Woodruff, who came to Towanda in 1S12, says: "Mi'. Conley had already been
'here several years." (P)

98
built a log cabin on the ground now occupied by the First
National Bank. For many years he was employed by Wm.
Means in running rafts down the Susquehanna, and became
one of the most noted pilots on the river. He afterwards
moved to an island near the mouth of Towanda Creek,
thence above Greenwood, where he died. His father, Na
than Northrup, a native of Connecticut, came to Athens at
an early day with his famil}', whence "Bij" proceeded to
Towanda. Henry Mercur came up the river from Lancaster county.
Pa., in i8o9-'io; and being pleased with the locality settled.
He was a hatter by occupation, and for several years fol
lowed that trade in conjunction with farming. In a log
house, which stood between where Mr. Blight's residence
now is and Main street he opened his first .shop. About
1811, he married Miss Mary, daughtt-r of Francis and Jane
Watts, and soon after moved into Leroy, on a place since
known as the Stone farm. Selling out his interest here in
18 1 5, he again returned to Towanda, purchased a lot and
built a framed house* thereon, the same standing on the
northeast corner of State and Second streets. In a part of
his residence he opened a hatter's shop, and continued to
work at his trade till 1828, when he sold his business to
Zenas and Benjamin Thomas, However, during this time,
from 1 818 to 1820 hp served as County Treasurer. He
then turned his attention to farming, spending a portion of
his time in his study. Having invested in real estate in
-'^ This house in which Judge M'ercur and Mahlon C, were born is yet standing on the wast
side of Second street, in a good state of preservation.

99
northern Illinois, he went thither. to look after his interests,
and remained for six or eight years, then returned to To
wanda, where he died Sept. lo, 1868, aged 82 years. His
wife, Mary, had preceded him to the grave, Dec. 14, 1839,
at the age of 49 years.
Henry Mercur was of German parentage, his father hav
ing emigrated from Germany and settled in Lancaster
county. Pa., where the subject of this notice was born. At
a proper age he was sent to Germany to be educated. He
entered one of the most thorough universities, and con
tinued his studies for nearly ten years, then returned to
America, a scholar and a gentleman. When he came to
Bradford county he was, perhaps, the most scholarly man
in Northern Pennsylvania He was not only a scientific
Scholar of rare excellence, but a linguist. He was fluent
in German, read Latin, and knew a considerable of the Ara
bian and Sanskrit. " Indeed," says one capable of judg
ing, " he was the only thoroughly educated man I ever
knew." Unto Henry and Mary Mercur were born six
children, viz : Henry S., James W., Mahlon C, Ulysses,
Hiram, and Eliza.
Henry S., at the age of twenty years (1832), engaged in
the mercantile business with Judge Ellis Lewis, and subse
quently with his brothers. During the last two years pre
ceding his death, he had charge of the coal business of M.
C. Mercur & Co., at Pittston. (See first merchants).
fames W., for a few years was associated with his brother
H. S., in the mercantile business. His health having failed
he retired from the firm and visited Sobth America and

100
Italy in hopes of recovery ; but getting no relief he re
turned to Towanda and died.
Mahlon C, a prominent, active citizen of the county, for
sketch of, see biographical notices.
Ulysses, the present Chief Justice of the State, for sketch
of, see biographical notices.
Hiram, when a young man twenty years of age, entered
into copartnership with Thomas Elliott, but went out of
business after three years on account of failing health. He
made a trip to South America, but died soon after return
ing. He was one of the most active money-making young
men Towanda ever had.
Eliza died when a young lady.
Colonel Harry Spalding came in from Sheshequin in
about the year 1810. He was a man ofenterprise and engaged
in the mercantile trade. He first had a small store, below
where the Barclay depot now stands, on the road leading
to Towanda Creek. Afterwards he put up a framed store*
between the log house, stated as having been occupied by
Henry Mercur as a hatter's shop, and the gulf — on the lot
of now I. O. Blight. In 1812 he built the residence of Mrs.
Wm. Mix, and opened his house as a place of entertain
ment for the public. Appurtenant to it he had a store. In
the first issue of the Bradford Gazette, Aug. 9, 1 813, appears
the following " ad :"
" Fresh Goods.^-Harry Spalding & Co. have just re
ceived, and for sale, a general assortment of dry goods, and
* Upon the estabUshment of the Bradford Gazette this building was used for the first print
ing ofi&ce in the county.

101
groceries, also soal and upper leather, barr iron, hollow
ware, stoves, earthenware, &c., &c., &c., which they offer
for cash on the lowest terms.
N. B. — Those indebted to the above firm, for the term of
one year, must attend to the payment of their respective
accounts immediately, or collections will be enforced with
out discrimination."
" Towanda, Aug. 9, 181 3."
" HARRY SPALDING & CO."
" By mutual agreement the firm of Harry Spalding & Co.
was dissolved Oct. 7, 1813, Spalding to continue the busi
ness." The members of the firm were H. Spalding, John
Robinson, and Stephen C. King.
Mr. Spalding was a man of prominence in the county,
and did much for the pro.sperity of the town. He was the
first Tjeasurer of the county and Colonel of Militia. His
death occurred May 23, 1821, at the age of 37 years. His
children were Franklin, Asa, Harry, James, Simon, and
Weltha. The daughter married Ulysses M. Warner of
Wysox, and moved to Rockford, III, where the brothers-
also located. Mrs. Spalding married for her second hus
band Wm. Myer, of Wysox. She died at Rockford,
fesse Woodruff, Towanda's first tailor, was born in Bridg-
ton, Cumberland county, N. J., Nov. 26, 1790. He was
the youngest of ten children. His father, Jesse Woodruff,
died when he was but seven years old. He remained with
his widowed mother until he was fifteen years of age, when
he went to Philadelphia to learn the tailor's trade. Com
pleting his trade after having attained his majority, he went

102
to Wilkes-Barre, where he worked for a short time, thence
took the stage for Towanda, where he arrived on the 25th
of November, 1812. He says: " I found a miserable look
ing place, and wished myself back to Wilkes-Barre." The
inhabitants of the village then were Wm. Means, Harry
Spalding, Adam Conley, Abijah Northrup, E. B. Gregory,
Oliver Newell, and the Watts family. Means, Conley,
Spalding and Newell occupied the framed houses, and the
others log. houses. He rented. a log house west of Mr.
Gregory's for a tailor's shop, and having received a liberal
patronage says : '.' before my quarter was up I had got
pretty well contented, and purchased the lot and logs with
it for ;^I75." Mr. Woodruff continued business here for
several years, and it is evident that he kept apace with the
times from the subjoined advertisement which appeared in
the first number of the Bradford Gazette : ,
" Jesse Woodruff, tailor, respectfully informs the citizens
of Towanda and its vicinity, that he has commenced busi
ness op'posite Mr. Gregory's and intends carrying on the
tailoring business, on an extensive scale, and hopes by his
workmanship and punctuality to merit a share ofthe public
patronage." "Towanda, Aug. 9, 18 13."
After a few years he quit tailoring and built a hotel on
the ground now occupied by the stores of Wm. Chamber
lain and S. P. Whitcomb. His place was known as the
" Tiger Hotel," and was afterwards kept by Daniel Bartlett,
to whom he sold. He built a second hotel, the " Bradford
House," on the present site of the Reporter-fournal office

103
and the Council rooms. About 1840, he sold to Ira H.
Stevens, and after a couple of years, purchased a farm in
North Towanda where he remained until 1863, when he
went to Battle Creek, Mich., to spend the residue of his
days with a daughter. His demise occurred Sept. 29, 1880,
and his remains were brought east and laid beside those of
his sleeping companion in Riverside.
Jesse Woodruff, or " Uncle Jesse," as he was better
known to the young people, was a man whose company was
enjoyed by the youth and aged alike. He was genial,
always ready to crack or enjoy a joke, and especially apt in
repartee. In his old age he- was literally " a boy grown
old," and the recollections of those that knew him are most
pleasant, and his memory deeply cherished. Among other
pastimes " Uncle Jesse" enjoyed a game of checkers with
" the boys," and so famous did he become in this direction
that his peer could hardly be found. After having discon
tinued the hotel business he experienced religion and be
came one of the most punctual and ardent members ofthe
Presbyterian Church. In the Autumn of 18 13 he was
united in marriage with Mary Dobbips, of Burlington, and
began Ijouse-keeping in the log house, which he had pur
chased. The children resulting from this marriage were :
Celinda, who married Edward Young, an Englishman,
and. is the mother of Prothonotary, W. J. Young;
Mary married Isaac Kellum of Towanda, and moved to
Battle Creek, Michigan ;
Thomas P., for some years a jeweler in Towanda, went
to California-in 185 1, where he still resides;

104
Leroy is a resident of Towanda ;
Ruth died when a young lady.
Francis Watts, a gentleman of Scotch-Irish extraction, who
had married Miss Jane, sister of Wm, Means, came in from
the West Branch not long after his brother-in-law, and
occupied about 4bo acres of land, extending from the Ar
cade block to Geo. Blackman's, and from the river a mile
westward. He built a log house, nearly where Mr. Hawes'
residence now is, and the homestead was in the occupancy
of the family for more than three-quarters of a century.
Mr. Watts died before 1809, and left a large family. Mrs.
Watts only having a squatter's claim, gave one-half the
possession to Harry Spalding for securing and advancing
the money necessary to perfect the title. Mr. Watts was
a descendant on his mother's side of — Clark, one of
Penn's first Council. He was also a relative 'of Judge
Watts of Cumberland Co., Pa. The children of Francis
and Jane Watts were :
fohn, who resided in Canton ;
Squire, married Margaret Gregg and also lived in Canton ;
Means, married Susan Bowman and lived and died in
Towanda township ;
fames, married Rebecca Bowman, and occupied the home
stead in the upper part of the village ;
Polly, married Henry Mercur, of Towanda ;
fane, married Oliver Newell ;
Elinor, married William Spalding, of Canton ;
Betsey, married Davis Vandike, of Canton ;
Thomas, died when a young man.

105
Mrs. Watts died with her son, James, and Mr. Watts out
of the county, when away on business or visiting.
Oliver Newell, a carpenter by occupation, located at
Towanda, on the Watts place, perhaps not far from the year
1804. He built and occupied a small Trained house, which
stood on the site of William Dittrich's present residence.
In 1824, he sold to Francis Delpuech and removed to
Grover, where he died. He married Jane Watts, who bore
him several children.
Burr Ridgeway, one of the most eminent and interesting
characters of " early times," was of Quaker descent, and was
born in the town of Springfield, Burlington Co. N. J., Apr. 17,
1780. When he was eleven years old, his father removed to
Philadelphia, and was accidentally killed soon thereafter
leaving young Burr at that tender age without a father's
care to shape his future destiny in life's untrodden path. In
1803 he came to Wysox, to take charge of John Hollen-
back's store and house bf entertainment. In the following
year he was appointed postmaster for Wysox, then the only
postoffice between Wyalusing and Sheshequin. He pur
chased what is known as the " Piollet farm," but sold it in
1808, and purchased on Wysox creek, where he, in company
with one of his brotheirs, built a saw and grist-mill. Not
meeting with the success which he had anticipated, and
having had ill-luck in making his first shipment, he was
compelled to abandon the enterprise and returned to Phila
delphia for a year or two. Having earned a small capital,
he again returned to the county, and in the fall of 18 12 came
to Towanda to clerk for William Means. He at first took

108
up his residence in a log house, owned by Harry Spalding,
standing on the gulf where the Episcopal church now is.
Subsequently he built a hou.se on the let now occupied by
Patton's block and lived there.
* «
In March, 1813, he was appointed a Justice of the Peace
by Gov. Simon Snyder, for the districj: comprising the
townships of Towanda, Burlington and Wysox ; and at the
October election in 18 13, he was elected County Commis
sioner on the Democratic ticket over Col. Joseph Kingsbury,
the Federal candidate, the vote being respectively 365 and
257. Thomas Simpson wishing to sell ihe Bradford Gazet'e,
Mr. Ridgeway purchased it of him, and began its publica
tion with the first issue in 1815. At this time there was not
a mail route, in the county, on the west side of the river,
and but one on the east side, the mail being brought once
a week each from the north and south. When Mr. Ridge
way began publishing the Gazette, the people were very
obliging and one seemed to vie with another in distributing
the papers. Mr. Ridgeway circulated a petition and for
warded it to the Postmaster General, praying that a mail
route be established for the accommodation of the people of
the western part of the county. Proposals were issued for
two lines for a term of two years, which were to pass
through several of the townships, the mail to be carried on
horseback. Mr. Ridgeway became the contractor upon both
lines. He continued the publication of the Gazette for over
three years, when a difficulty arose between CF. Welles and
Samuel McKean, which ended in a law-suit that was.
very injurious to the paper. Asa result he sold the press

107
and material, and moved to Wysox, where he turned his at
tention to agriculture.
Upon the election of Joseph Hiester he was appointed
Prothonotary and Register and Recorder of the county. At
the close of Hiester's term, he purchased a farm on the
South-Branch of the Towanda creek and went there to live
in 1822. He, however, again returned to Towanda, contin
ued as a Justice of the Peace, and for a short time engaged
in the mercantile business. In 1846, he went to Franklin
to reside, and there remained until the time of his death,
Aug. 19, 1876. Besides the offices enumerated, Mr. Ridge- »
way filled many other places of honor and trust, and his
capacity and integrity were always appreciated by his fellow-
citizens. He was prominent in the Masonic order, and was
one of the first members in the county. His life was useful,
his name popular, and his memory cherished by many.*
Alphonsus C. Stewart, came to Towanda in 1812, upon the
organization ofthe county, to practice law. He built a house
on the corner of Lombard and Main streets, but sold to
Charles F. Welles in 1816 and went West.f
Andrew Irvine, "the tanner," was born in Northumberland
county. Pa., May 28, 1789. He was the eldest son of John
Irvine and Mary Fullerton (Mrs. Thomas), his motherbeing
his father's third wife.
*For a fuller history of this venerable father, see " History of Monroe."
¦f-After removing to the western country he was decoyed, by a man who was jealous of him,
into a sham duel. Blank cartridges were to be fired, but Mr. Stewart's adversary secretly
put a ball into his pistol, and with it killed him. The coward left the country, bnt was ar
rested after a couple of years, tried, convicted and hung for murder.

108
His grand-parents* were natives of Scotland, but emi
grated to Ireland where his father, John, was born.
John Irvine was an Episcopalian, took the oath of allegi
ance to King George, came to America and settled near
Milton, in Northumberland county. When Andrew was
seven years old his father died, and he at that early age
earned his first money at a ferry near by.* His mother
carefully hoarded his earnings and with them bought an
iron stew-pot with a cover, famous in those days for cooking
pot-pie. This became a part of his scanty kitchen furniture
when he set up house-keeping, and still remains in the
family. He enjoyed the usual short term of winter school,
but acquired the rudiments of learning sufficiently for busi
ness purposes. At th'e age of fourteen he was apprenticed
to Mr. Snyder, a tanner. Here he faithfully served his
time, and as well learned to speak the German language —
an accomplishment of which he was very proud, and ever
retained. In 1812 he and his brother, Guy C.,t volun
teered in the American army. Upon being disbanded in
the fall of 18 1 2, Andrew came home by the headwaters of
the Susquehanna, passing the village of. MeansviUe The
place, at that day, was more remarkable for three streams of
water running through it, than anything else it possessed.
The center stream caught the eye of Andrew as the spot to
locate a tannery. Accordingly he purchased a half-acre of
ground of Wm. Means and erected a log housej thereon, two
* Tradition says that the name Irvine is derived from "heir ofthe vine."
t He in after years became one of the greatest lumbermen in Warren Co., Pa.
X This was in the spring of 1813.

109
stories high. In the upper room he cooked his meals and slept,
using the lower room for a shop. Mr. Irvine's lot extended
from one door south of where M. E. Rosenfield's store now is
to Patton's block. His log house stood about thirty-five feet
below Main street, back of the place now known as " Tidd's
Hotel." The tannery was situated on the creek, north and
eAst of the log house. " While Mr. Irvine was engaged in
digging a well, in Sept., 1813, strange sounds, like the dis
tant roar of cannon, were heard. It was the day of Perry's
victory on Lake Erie, but could not be accounted for at the
time." In Sept. 1 8 14, he married Catharine McAffee, daughter of
Maj. James McAffee, of Turbot, Northumberland Co., Pa.
Mr. Irvine prospered in all his undertakings, assisted in no
small degree by his self-denying wife, who bore the priva
tions of her lot, to carry out his schemes, with a cheerfulness
and happy spirit worthy of all praise. He was a man of
untiring energy, and was distinguished for his good judg
ment and sterling integrity. From 1824 to 1826 he was
County Treasurer and again in 1830 and '31. In 1828 he
built a two-story brick house, the first in Towanda. This
building stood on the ground now occupied by Tidd's hotel.
Mr. Irvine did an extensive business for that day, and com
bined lumbering with tanning. Barter was then used in all
grades of business, as may be seen from the following :
" The subscriber has on hand a quantity of soal and
, upper leather, which he will dispose of on reasonable terms
for cash or green hides. Good wheat and shingles will be

no
taken in exchange if delivered at the subscriber's tan-yard
in Towanda."
"AND'W. IRWIN."
Bradford Gazette, Aug. 9, 1813.
Afterwards he became a farmer on the " Pine Plains,"
^yhere he owned a farm on the bank of the river. He was
a partner with Simon Kinney and David Cash in the owner
ship of land bought of Shephard and Dorrance, covering the
greater portion of the hill-side of the borough of Towanda,
and stretching down to the river south ofthe Public Square.
He also owned lots north and west of the village. In order
to better his fortunes and those of his children, Mr. Irvine
moved with his family to Warren Co. Pa., in 1836. Having
purchased a large tract of land, he engaged actively in lum
bering. The patrimonial estate is still in possession of the
family, " producing oil for subsistence and gas for light and
heat — an unlooked for means of wealth and coijifort."
Mr. Irvine died Jan. 4, 1853. He was a prominent Free
Mason, and belonged to one other society in which he was
styled the " Grand Sachem," a name that clung to him. In
politics he was an active Democrat, and was fearless in de
claring his principles. Of his family four children are yet
living. His eldest child. Miss Jane D. Irvine, born Oct.
15, 1815, is claimed to have been the first child born within
the original borough limits. Timothy H. Lewis, born
in 1798, as far as we have any record, was the first
child born within the present borough.
Ethan Baldwin, a lawyer and physician, came to Towanda
from Washington Co. Pa., in 1812. He at first lived in

lii
North Towanda, on the Powell or Brown place, but after
wards purchased a farm — now included in the J. C. ,A.dams
estate — built a stone house and resided there for some years,
whence he removed to Harrisburg (in 1828), thence to
Philadelphia. It is said that he was not a complete success
as a physician; but, "as an advocajte at the bar he was
famed for metaphorical comparisons and illustrations, and
his imagery was often sublime. He had an extraordinary
memory, and prolific imagination, and moreover an inven
tive genius. Among other things he invented a dirt-exca
vator, to be employed in building canals, which is said to
have operated well. In making one of his experiments, he
was badly disfigured by an explosion of steam. Mr. Bald
win was a man of self-reliance, ambitious and sanguine in
his undertakings. He was a volunteer candidate for Con
gress and received the indorsement of the minority party,
but was defeated. For a short time he was postmaster at
Towanda. Mrs. Baldwin is remembered as a lady of refine
ment. Simon Kinney, Esq., — the first white child born in the
present town of Sheshequin — came to Towanda* in 1813-
14, to follow his profession — that of law. He was a son of
Joseph Kinney, a soldier of the Revolution, and Sarah
Spalding, a daughter of Gen. Simon Spalding, of Revolu
tionary celebrity. His early life was spent in assisting in
clearing up a heavily timbered farm, receiving in the mean
time, a careful moral and intellectual training. At his
*His residence stood about where A, J. Layton's house now is,and his lot embraced those of
A. J. Layton and Benj. M. Feck, and extended'back to the old convent.

112
majority he married Phoebe Cash, and removed to a ^farm,
which his father owned in Scipio, N. Y., and commenced the
study of law. Finding his means inadequate to properly
complete his studies and procure a library, the farm was
sold and the proceeds used for establishing him in business
at Towanda. He was a man of unquestioned legal ability,
being the compeer of Mallery, Conyngham, Denison, Strong,
Williston, Overton, Baldwin and Watkins, leaders at the bar
of Bradford and Northern Pennsylvania. He was a mem
ber of the State Legislature for the sessions of 1820-21 and
1821-22, thedistrictthen comprising the countiesof Tioga and
Bradford, also County Treasurer for 18 16-17. Mr. Kinney
was a man of strong mind, and his service is favorably re
membered by active participators in the political affairs of
the time. The great David Wilmot completed his law
studies in Mr, Kinney's office. He was one of the most
prominent and active men of the county. In 1834, he re
moved to Rockford, 111., with his family.
Mr. Kinney's family were somewhat remarkable and
noted. His children were Harriet, Henry, Lawrence,
Joseph, Warren, Emily, Sarah, and Anna.
Col. H. L. Kinney achieved an enviable celebrity by his
dash, courage and enterprise, which made him at one
time quite the lion of the country. He was ¦ the founder of
Corpus Christi, Texas, and peopled the town by a denom
ination of his own settlers,; served in the Mexican war in
Gen. Scott's army ; supplied the commissiariat with stores
from the resources of the country ; and was deemed a mil
lionaire at the end ofthe war. He spent much of his for-

113
tune afterwards in Central American expeditions. During
the rebellion, he served in -Mexico as Colonel of her army,
and fought against the French and Maximilian and was
killed at Monterey, while leading a small troop in ferreting
out guerrillas in the city. He became one of the finest
horsemen of Texas, taking lessons of the Comanches, and
so far surpassing theni that they were, to his mastery, but
initiates. He won many victories over them in some of
their sharpest fights. It will not be amiss, perhaps, to state
that he married a daughter of Gen. Lamar of the " Lone
Star " fame.
foseph Warren followed the fortunes of his brother in
Texas, and acquired considerable landed property. He was
accidentally shot, by the explosion of his pistol, in mount
ing his horse, and died from the wound soon after.
Harriet married Dr. Whitehead and removed to Peoria,
111. She was a woman of rare intelligence, and acquired^
accomplishments of a high order for her day.
" Emily, Sarah, and Anna maintained the reputation
meted out to the family generally by common consent."
Charles F. Welles* upon the organization of the county,
received from the Governor authority to administer the
oaths of office to the newly chosen officers, and himself was
chosen Prothonotary, Clerk of the Courts, Register and
Recorder, and the first records of the county are in his own
neat and peculiar penmanship. For ten years he was a res
ident of Towanda, when he removed to Wyalusing in 1822.
He was a son of George Welles, one of the first settlers of
*He built and occupied the house, now used as a residence by Mre. Barstpw.
(B)

114
Athens, and was born at Glastonbury, Conn., Nov, 5, 1789^.,
In 18 16, he was joined in wedlock with Miss Ellen J.,
daughter of Judge HoUenback.
Mr. Welles was a man of varied and extensive reading.
He wielded a busy pen, and contributed for the press some
of the best poetic articles which were published. Though
never a politician, in the sense of aspiring for office, he took
a deep interest in political questions. In early life he es
poused the principles advocated by Jefferson ; later, he be
came an admirer of Henry Clay, and a defender of his
policy. During his residence in Towanda, he exerted a
well-nigh controlling influence in the politics of the county.
His articles on political questions, written at this time, were
marked by breadth of view and urged with a cogency of
reasoning that carried conviction to the mind of the reader,
while the corrupt politician received scathing rebukes from
his trenchant pen. He became an extensive land owner
and left a fine fortune at his death, Sept. 23, 1866.
fames Grant was evidently an early resident of Towanda.
In several issues of the Bradford Gazette, appeared the fol
lowing notice, dated Sept. 6, 1813 : "James Grant respect-
fvilly informs the public that he has again commenced the
practice of phytic and surgery, at Towanda." It is very
probable that he remained a short time only as his name is
not found upon our assessment lists.
The Ringers, among whom Jacob was chief, were " water
men " on the Susquehanna, and " single freemen."
facob finally married and lived in Towanda for a while,
then moved to Ohio.

115
The Vandykes — John Vandyke, a native of Holland, emi
grated to America and at first settled near Tjenton, N. J.,
whence he removed to Turbit township, Northumberland
county. Pa. He married an Irish lady and remained in
Northumberland, where he reared his family. In 1815,
William Vandj'l^e, a .son, came to Towanda and purchased
of John Leavenworth a tract of land on Towanda creek, in
cluding a grist-mill* and a saw-mill. Mr. Vandyke and the
balance of the family came the same, or the following year.
In 1817, John Vandyke was assessed as follows: " Seven
acres of land improved ; 7 town lots; 2 houses ; a tan-yard,
and a horse and cow." His land extended from the X)ver-
ton basin to State street.f Mr. Vandyke's sons settled about
-him. Davis, " the saddler," occupied the James Ward
place. He had a saddlery-shop on the ground where Dr.
Pratt's residence now stands. After some years he sold out
and moved to Granville township, where he lived until the
' time of his demise.
Wilson, " the tanner," moved to Allegainy, N. Y., and
there died.
fohn lived where Henry Porter now does. He sold out
and removed to Canton, where he spent the residue of his
days. In 1825, Mr. Vandyke and his son William, traded
their property in Towanda with H. W. Tracy for lands in
Ulster township, on what is now known as Moore's Hill,
and moved there while the locality was yet a wilderness.
* These mills occupied the old mill site at Hale's.
f He lived in the framed house between Jesse Woodruff's tailor shop and the gulf. The
" tan-yard " was owned by the Vandykes until 1822, when it passed into the hands of Spald
ing and Cash.

116
The farm on which both spent their last days is yet owned
and occupied by the family.
William married Miss Susan, daughter of Janies Daugh
erty, whose mother's maiden name was Hammond. He
was the father of G. H. Vandyke, Esq., of Ulster, the present
efficient and popular Democratic County Commissioner.
EUphalet Mason* came to Towanda in 1816, " being the
twelfth family within the borough limits." He built a house
on the corner west of Main street, and north of State street,
which he afterwards sold to Geo. Scott, Esq. In 1820 he
erected a stone house, out of small stones, in front of the
Public Square, standing where Jordan's meat market now is.
The building was christened the "Stone Heap," , but nick
named the " Stone-jug '" He built a store building adjoin
ing and engaged in selling groceries for about a year. In
1822 he erected a store-house on the corner of Court and
Main streets, opposite the Public Square, which he rented
to Gurdon Hewett. Of Mr. Mason's residence in Towanda
he says: "In the spring of 1 817 grain was very scarce.
Corn had been ruined by the frosts of the Fall before, and
every kind of food was in meagre supply. It became evi
dent that some one must undertake to supply the village
with meat, and as I could best afford the time, the task fell
upon me Indeed, so great was the dependence, that the
villagers could not boil the pot without my providing."
For many years Mr. Mason was one of the most prominent
men of the county. His early life was spent in teaching.
In the Fall of 18 14, he was commissioned Lieutenant of
* For a full sketch of, see history of Monroe.

117
Militia, and with others was drafted in the war of 1812. A
company of no men was raised and placed under his com
mand and sent tc Danville, awaiting orders ; but returned
home after a month's absence. At the October election,
1 8 14, he was chosen County Auditor, being the only Dem
ocrat elected on the ticket that year. From April, 18 15,
he acted as Deputy Sheriff, under A. C. Rockwell, till the
close ofhis term, and transacted nearly all the busine5s con
nected with the office. In 1816 he was elected County
Commissioner over A. C. Rockwell, his brother-in-law, the
Federal candidate. July x, i8t8, he was commissioned by
Gov. Findlay, Recorder of Deeds, &c., and in conjunction
with the Prothonotary to administer oaths of office to such
persons as might be appointed by the Governor. In 1824
he was appointed a Commissioner with Edward Eldred and
Wm. Brindle to lay out a State road from Muncy to To
wanda. Again, in 1829, he was elected to the office of
County Commissioner, having a greater majority than his
competitor had votes. In 1837 Mr. Mason and his son,
Gordon F., purchased several thousand acres of land of the
Asylum Company, lying in Bradford county. The invest
ment proved a fruitful one Mr. Mason coritinued in active
and varied business till 1844, when he threw off most of
his cares to enjoy his closing days. He found great com
fort in making verse, reading his papers, and in frequently
contributing an article to the press. His writings will be
remembered by many under the sobriquet of " Old South."
Mr. Mason was a man of genius, indomitable energy and
undaunted courage. His honesty and integrity were never

118
questioned, and of littleness he was never accused. His life
was a successful one and a noble example.
His son, Gordon F., of whom a sketch is given in another
;part of this work, was also a prominent man of the county.
The late Dr. E. Hastings Mason, of Towanda, was a son also.
Walter S. Minthorn, " a mechanic," came to Towanda in
1 8 17. . He was a soldier of the war of 181 2, and lost a leg.
For a while he lived on the corner of Second and State
streets, finally moving to Rome.
Nathaniel Heacock, " a carpenter," was assessed in To
wanda in 1817. He lived at the terminus of Second .street,
with Lombard. From Towanda he went to Canton.
William Kelly and sons, Lewis and William, mechanics,
settled in Towanda in 18 18. He established a ferry, across
the river, the wharf being at the terminus of State street,
and was known as the " Upper," or " Kelly's Ferry." His
house stood on the corner of Water street, south of State.
He also kept a grocery, for a while, on Court street, which
he sold to Benjamin Hunt. Lewis Kelly lived on Second
street, where Benjamin Northup now does. He followed
cabinet-making. Thinking Newtown a more favorable place
in his business, he moved thither.
Dr. Charles Whitehead located at Towanda in 181 8. His
house stood a little south of N. N. Bett's present residence,
in the same lot, which he then owned. He was a man of
ability and considerable eminence. From 1820 to 1823 he
was Register and Recorder of the county. He was also a
Justice ofthe Peace. He died in- 1825 (aged 31 years) and

119
was buried in Riverside Cemetery. Mrs. Whitehead taught
school in the village after her husband's death.
Lewis P. Franks, a printer, came to Towanda in 1817, and^
edited the Washingtonian, the first regular Federal paper in;
the county. After continuing the paper about a year, he
turned its management over to Octavius Holden, who con
tinued its publication only a short time. Franks is remem
bered as a central figure, with a keen intellect, but eccen
tric. He wielded an able and trenchant pen. Upon leaving
Towanda he went to Philadelphia, where he engaged in
journalism. fohn Stowers was a Deputy Sheriff and jailor under Lem-^
uel Streetor, having removed to Towanda in 18 19. He at
first lived in the basement ofthe old Court House, then built
on his lot, the same as now occupied by Mercur's block, a
little below the Citizen's National Bank. He sold out to -
Col. Harry Mix, and removed to Binghamton, where a son
had preceded him and gone into business.
Charles Comstock occupied the lot of now Benj.. M. Peck,
and had a store a little south of his present residence. He
came to Towanda in 18 19, and removed to Athens in about
1823, where he was a merchant for many years.
facob P. Ensley, a shoemaker, was a resident of Towanda
in 1819, and occupied the first floor of Jesse Woodruff's
tailor shop.
,^ fames E. Haslet, a mason, was also a resident of the bor
ough in 1 8 19, and lived in a small house where Hon. W. T..
Davies' residence now is.
Edwin Benjamin came to Towanda in about the same

120
"time (i8i8) that he and Lemuel Streeter purchased the
Bradford Gazette. He was postmaster of Towanda in 1819
and County Clerk in 1821. He lived where A. Snell's res
idence now is.
Elisha Newberry, a blacksmith, began workingat his trade
in the village in 1819. He subsequently moved to Troy and
became a prominent citizen there.
Hon. George Scott, a native of Berkshire county, Mass.,
born Nov. 19, 1784, having attained his majority, in com
pany with an elder brother, David, started for the " Sunny
South " to begin life in earnest and make his fortune. The
young men were both well educated for those days, and had
decided to engage in school teaching, when an opportunity
presented itself, until something more congenial and paying
should be found. Accordingly, some time in 1805 or 6,
they set out with a single horse, and drifted into
Wysox, Bradford county. They made their business
known, whereupon the citizens called a meeting at the house
of Burr Ridgeway, and George was hired to teach the
school of the district. David found employment west of
the river and tatight a school opposite where his nephew,
H. L. Scott, Esq., now resides. He also clerked for William
Means, read law in the meantime, and finally went to Wilkes-
Barre, where he was admitted to the bar. He became a man
¦of note — was Prothonotary, &c., of Luzerne county, and for
several years President Judge of the Luzerne District.
George continued teaching in Wysox, and having been
appointed a Justice of the Peace, purchased a lot, next be
yond the "brick church," and built a house thereon. Finally

T21
Miss Lydia, daughter of Henry Strope, " possessed the nec
essary charms," and he became a permanent fixture in the
county. Upon the organization of the county in i8i2, he
was appointed an Associate Judge with John McKean, by
Gov. Snyder, and held that office until 1818. He was clerk
to the County Commissioners from 181 5 to 1820, and was
appointed Prothonotary in 1818, and Register and Recorder
in 1824, which office he held till 1830. In 1816 he was
appointed a Commissioner to superintend the distribution
of the funds appropriated for the building of the State
Road, " extending eastward and westward through the
county," and passing through Towanda.
In the Autumn of 18 19, Mr. Scott moved to Towanda
with his family and took up his residence on the corner
north of State street, west of Main, but afterwards lived and
died on the ground now occupied by Dr. Pratt. He edited
and published the Bradford Settler from 182 1 to '23, his
printing office standing east of Main street, and south of
State, near the corner. From 1823 to '24 he was County
Treasurer, and for many years was prominent in the politics
of the county. He died at Towanda, March 2, 1834, and
was buried in Riverside Cemetery.
Mr. Scott was a man of fine clerical ability, accurate and
executed his penmanship in a neat and systematic manner.
He was a man of excellent judgment and unquestioned integ
rity, which, together with his clerical ability, made him a most
valuable servant of the people in the early history of the
county. In politics he was Democratic-Republican ; and
as a citizen was prominent, patriotic and influential.
(S)

122
Mrs. Scott survived her husband many /ears. She was
born in Wysox, Feb. 29, 1788, and died in Towanda, Feb.
25, 1881.
Mr. and Mrs. Scott reared a bright family. The following
were their children :
Rowena (Ijorn April 23, 1807) married Burton Kingsbury,
deceased, a dry-goods merchant of Towanda for many years.
Mrs. Kingsbury is yet living in Towanda, and is a pleasant
and entertaining lady, of a clear and accurate memory.
George (born 1 8 14) went to Catawissa, Columbia county.
Pa., and became a man of prominence. He served three or
four terms in the State Legislature ; was elected Canal
Commissioner in 1856; became president of a bank and for
several years engaged somewhat extensively in contracting.
David L. {hom 1809) was a physician and practiced at
Towanda for some years ; he entered the service of the
Union and died at Albany, N. Y., in 1865. He married
Miss Julia H, Kinney, sister of G. Wayne, and O. P. H.
Kinrtey, of Sheshequin. Mrs. Scott was a lady of rare
intelligence, and poetic genius. She was a poetical contrib
utor of merit to the periodicals of her time. Her poems
have been collected and two editions published. They rank
well with those that have been produced by the more emi
nent authors.
Wilson (born 1816) was a young man of culture and great
promise. He was a graduate of Jefferson College, studied
law and formed a partnership with David Wilmot ; but as
he was rapidly attaining eminence, he was suddenly cut
down by the sword of Fate. . His display of extraordinary

123
talents, combined with a fine person and most agreeable
manners, made him a gentleman to be greatly admired.
William (born 1820) is a resident of Towanda and has
been agent of the Tpwanda Coal Company for several years.
Walter (horn 1820) was for several years a contractor, and
resides at Baltimore, Md.
H Lawrence (born 1824) studied law but it not proving
congenial to his tastes, engaged in farming. He was elected
Register and Recorder in 1851, and in 1862 was appointed
U. S. Collector of Internal Revenues for the 13th Congres
sional District, which office he resigned in 1869. He was
one of the Directors of the Towanda Iron Manufacturing
Company and was made Secretary and Treasurer upon its
organization. Mr. Scott has taken a prominent part in
politics, and has always been an earnest adherent of the
Republican party. His good judgment, and many excel
lent traits of character, make him a gentlernan of whom his
friends and neighbors are justly proud.
Luther (born 18 1 8) has always been a resident of Towanda.
Lydia E., (born 1826) njarried Gen. H. J. Madill, and re
sides in Towanda.
Clinton (born 1829) was a dentist, and became a man of
prominence in Eureka, Cal., where he died.
Wuliam Hart, a native of New Jersey, came to Wysox
about the close of the war of 181 2, in which he served as a
farrier and shod Capt. Scott's (afterward General) horse.
He was for a time connected with Hollenback's store and
house of entertainment. While here engaged, he married
a daughter of Henry Strope. In 1818 he moved to To-

124
wanda and rented the " Red Tavern" and ferry of Mr.
Means. He perhaps kept the hotel but one year, then
worked at his trade, that of blacksmith. He iinally moved
to Monroeton," where he resided until the time of his death,
Gurdon Heiu3ti, who had engaged in lumbering at Mon
roe and married a daughter of Wm. Means, came to To
wanda in 1 8 19 and engaged in the mercantile business.
He built a store on the corner of Main and Bridge streets,
where Patton's block now stands, and a residence farther
east. About 1827 he removed to Owego, N. Y., engaged in
the banking business, and became, it is said, a millionaire. He
was the architect of his own fortune, having begun life as a
poor boy. From 1821 to 1822 he was Treasurer of Brad
ford county.
William Keeler came to Towanda in 1820, and for a couple
of years kept hotel. He was then a partner in the mer
cantile business with Thomas Elliott. They occupied the
store south of the " Stone Jug," erected . by E. Mason,
where Fitch's confectionery store now is. Mr. Keeler had
a great deal of wit, and will be remembered as the esprit de
corps of the village in perpetrating practical jokes. He was
the idol of the smaller boys and took great delight in grat
ifying their mischievous natures. His jokes were always
rich and new, and if written out would quite excel " Peck's
Bad Boy." Finally, to the sorrow of the boys, Mr. Keeler
migrated to Rockford, III., where he died.
foseph C. Powell, upon being elected Sheriff, came to
Towanda to reside in 1821. He was a son of Stephen Pow
ell, a Revolutionary soldier, who emigrated from Dutchess

125
county, N. Y., to Ulster, Bradford county, in 1798, and set
tled the first farm above " the Narrows."
The subject of this sketch was a grandson of Joseph
Powell, a Moravian missionary, who with his brother, Sam
uel Powell, game from Shropshire, on the border of Wales.
The Powell brothers first preached at New Haven, but finally
joined the mission at Bethlehem, — the chief Moravian set
tlement. Joseph was active and prominent as a missionary
for years. He labored in the holy cause, among the
Indians and Negroes of Jamaica and at various missions,
being finally sent to the Indian station, Wechquadnach,
Conn., on the confines of the State of New York, and died
at Sharon. In 1859 the Moravian Historical Society,
erected a monument over his grave, bearing inscriptions
of their affection. He was the father of Stephen, who set
tled at Ulster and died there. Joseph C. was born in Dutch
ess county, June 10, 1786. His early life was spent upon
his father's farm. At a suitable age he married Miss Mary
Smith, of Ulster, and soon after went to Troy and engaged
in the mercantile business, where he remained until the time
of his election to the office of Sheriff.
He took an active part in the organization of the county,
and became somewhat conspicuous in politics, being a strong
adherent of the Whig party. He was a man of fine intelli
gence, and of sterling integrity. That he was popular, and
his worth appreciated, may be seen from the fact that he was
frequently called to fill places of honor and trust, even
against adverse partisan majorities. In 1 8 1 8 he was elected

126
County Commissioner, and at the expiration of his term as
such to the office of Sheriff.
Again in 1836 he was made Prothonotary by the volun
tary suffrages of the people, and a member of the State Leg
islature in 1849.
Upon moving to Towanda Mr. Powell at first occupied the
Barstow house but finally thoved to North Towanda on his
farm, where he remained until the time of his death, Sept. 2,
1854. His outside business was, however, somewhat varied.
He carried on lumbering, and for a time kept a store at To
wanda and had another at Burlington. After having, lost
his first wife, he married Mrs. Vespusian Ellis, nee Selina
Phillips. Of his first marriage, Percival and B. Franklin
were well known. The former, for some time postmaster of
Towanda, engaged in tailoring and the sale of ready-made
clothing ; and the latter in journalism, being for many years
editor of the Bradford Argus, and a proprietor with " Judge"
Parsons. Ofhis second marriage, Lucretia married John K. Baker,
of Bath, N. Y. ; Mary married W: B. Webb, of Chicago ;
and the Hon. Joseph, of whom a sketch is contained under
biographical notices.
Wm. Rippeth {\%2\) Xwed in Towanda for a short time,
then moved to Shores Hill, where he purchased a farm.
Andrew Trout, (1821) a blacksmith, and soldier of the
war of 1812, was a resident of Towanda till 1831, when he
was drowned with Geo. H. Bingham at Shamokin dam.
He had a number of sons, who became bright men.
fohn learned the trade of gunsmith, went to William-

127
sport and became a man of standing and affluence. Other
sons were Ransom, William, Jackson, George. Mr. Trout's
widow afterwards married Luke Gillespie, and both died
recently at very advanced ages.
Warren Brown came to Towanda as early as 1817. He
built the " County House,"* so called from its having been
built of second-hand material procured of the County
Commissioners. This building stood where the residence
of J. J. Griffith how is, and was used as a hotel by Mr.
Brown as early as 1824. He was Clerk of the County from
i826-'3o; and in about 1832 went West with his family.
fames Catlin and Octavius Holden were early residents of
Towanda, and among the first printers.
William F. Dinniger, a Frenchman skilled in the art of
teaching, came in from Wysox, taught school and resided
for a while. The early records of Wysox show that he
took quite an active part in politics, and held various local
office's. He was somewhat rigid and eccentric as a teacher,
and is well remembered by some of the elderly people.
Among early families, that were here for a short time only
are remembered : The Moores, the Wheelers, the Beebes,
the Leavenworths, the Ingrams.
Thomas Elliott established himself in the mercantile busi
ness, near the corner of Main and Pine streets, in 1821. He
was for sometime associated with Wm. Keeler, and after
wards with Hiram Mercur. Here, in 1846, the Hon. Joseph
Powell took his first lessons in the mercantile art. Mr.>

* 0. D. Bartlett, Esq., who is good authority, states that the building was so called from.
the fact that it was purchased of Mr. Brown by the County Commissioners.

128
Elliott was a prominent merchant of the town for many
years. He built a spacious mansion in the southern part of
the village, where he died in affluence in 1868, aged 76 years.
His aged widow and son, Edward T., occupy the home
stead. Mr. Elliott was the first president of the old To
wanda bank. He was a man of .strict integrity, and never
intentionally did any man a wrong. He praised the indus
trious but despised cant and arrogance.
Theodore Geroulds (1822), a blacksmith, lived on Water
street for awhile.
Col. Hiram Mix came to Towanda in 1822 from Myers-
burg, where he had been a merchant, purchased a lot of
John Stowers and opened a store in partnership with his
brother, St. John Mix, where the Citizens National Bank
now is.
St. John Mix subsequently moved to Illinois and died
there. Col. Hiram Mix closed his days in Towanda. His chil
dren were — William, Harry, Hiram, Amelia (Mrs. D. F.
Barstow), Emeline (Mrs. Dr. Huston), Elizabeth (Mrs. Jno.
F. Means), Matilda (Mrs. Jos. Kingsbury), Ellen (Mrs. St.
John Mix). Of these Harry, Amelia and Matilda are still
living. William was the father of John W. Mix, Esq., of Towanda.
Nathaniel N. Betts, the father of N. N. Betts, cashier of
the First National Bank of Towanda, came from Oxford,
N. Y., in about 1820 to officiate as clerk for Gurdon Hewett,
with whom he subsequently became a partner. After Mr.
Hewett removed to Owego, he sent Jos. D. Montanye to

129
Towanda as his clerk, who finally became a partner in the
concern. Mr. Hewett subsequently sold his interest to the
other two, and the firm became Betts & Montanye. They
were for several years one ofthe principal firms of Towanda,
and occupied the corner* of Court and Main streets, where
P. L. Decker now is.' Mr. Betts married a daughter of
Esquire Means, and after her death he married Miss Eliza
(Clark), daughter of Dr Adonijah Warner gf Wysox, which
union was blessed by the birth of Eliza Ellen (Mrs- Dr.
H. C. Porter) and Nathaniel Noble. Mr. 'Betts was in his
later years, a magistrate, and scrupulously honest in his
official relations. He died in 1875 at the age of 76 years.
Mrs: Betts (born Sept. 20, 1804) survives her husband and
is an interesting and accomplished lady, still in possession
of an active mind.
Benjamin Hunt (\%22) kept a cake, beer and confectionery
establishment on the. ground now occupied by DeWitt &
Decker's livery stables, on State street, and afterwards had
a grocery on Court street, between the Presbyterian Church
and Frost's Sons ware-rooms.
Stephen Hiatt (1824), a blacksmith, lived where J. A. Rec
ord's house now is. Among other things he was somewhat
noted as a musician, and was the sole violinist of the neigh
borhood. During slack times he was wont to go a-fishing
with a neighbor. Munger, a fact which being observed by
the poet of the town, gave rise to the following doggerel :

^ On the same lot, in 1822, E, Mason put up a store building. At that time this was con
sidered the most valuable lot in the place, being valued at SIOO.
(T)

130
'' I'll neither work your iron or steel.
Nor will I die with hunger ;
I'll take my pole npon my back
And go along with Munger."
Dr. fohn N. f^F^j-^o;? was born in Norwich, Conn., Feb. 12,
1794. He made his advent into the county in the winter of
18 1 3-14, instructing in the art of penmanship, Taut remained
only until the following spring. Afterwards, he studied
medicine and began practicing at Huntington, Luzerne
Co., Pa., where in 1822, he was joined in marriage with Miss
Mary Dodson, a distant relative of Benjamin Franklin. In
the autumn of 1823 Mr. Weston came to Towanda, "where
he soon acquired an extensive practice and a large circle of
personal friends, which his amenity of manners in all his
personal and professional intercourse was well calculated to
increase Wholly unselfish in his disposition, instead of
coldly performing his professional duties, it seemed rather
a work of love for him to alleviate the ills of others. He
never spared his strength or health, or avoided exposure to
wet or cold, when a suffering patient needed his aid— never
refusing to attend a call when able to reach his patient. In
this way he early made inroads upon his health, andby slow
degrees undermined his constitution, which left him for the
last few years of his life subject to continued attacks of ill
ness. " It may be safely said that there has seldom, if ever, been
a physician more attentive to his patients, more kind and
prudent, and withal more successful. Actuated by the dis
position to see the community in which he lived prosperous,

131
he always took a deep interest in anything calculated to ad
vance the public good, and was a zealous advocate of every
kind of public improvement. Unselfish in everything, he
would sooner suffer inconvenience himself than ask pay to
the inconvenience of others for professional services render
ed." Dr. Weston had scores of friends and as a proof of his
personal popularity it will not be amiss to state that in 1842
he was made the Whig candidate for Sheriff and elected by
a handsome majority over Chester Thomas, the Democratic
and majority candidate. He spent the last years of his life
in a house still standing and occupied, east of Main street
and north of" Weston," so called in his honor. The death
of this kind and noble-hearted' man occurred March 12,
1848, and his remains were interred in " Riverside Cemetery."
Mrs. Weston (born June 17, 1798,) is still living and retains
her mental and physical vigor to a remarkable degree She
resides at Weston Station with a maiden daughter (Martha).
Dr. Weston reared an intelligent family. Mary married O.
D. Bartlett, and Eliza, Dr. Madill, of Wysox. Henry for
several years practiced dentistry at Towanda and was one of
the first in the prdfession. He went to Philadelphia a few
years ago where he is still a practitioner, and engaged in the
manufacture of spring goods of his own invention. His in
ventive genius ha.s added a number of valuable improve-.
ments to dentistry. Dorsey practiced law for a time in Wis
consin, and upon the breaking out of the war entered the
7th Wisconsin Volunteers and served his country faithfully
for three years. He is at present residing at Weston.
Geo. W. Cash, son of Capt. Isaac Cash, one of the first

132
settlers into Athens and Ulster, came to Towanda in 1822
and entered into partnership with Morris Spalding in the
tanning business, which was continued under the firm name
of Spalding & Cash for five years. They purchased of the
Vandikes. Mr. Cash afterwards went to Texas, and enlist
ed in the war for Texan Independence. He was captured
by the Mexicans and put to death in cold blood by orders
of Santa Anna.
Gen. William Patton, a native of Mifflin county. Pa., and
lawyer by profession, came to Towanda in 1823. Mr. Pat
ton was a magistrate, and held at successive periods clerk
ships in the State Senate, and in the United States War and
Navy Departments, and General Land-Office, and also in
the United States Senate, serving in the last body for more
than a quarter of^a century. He was a Captain in the
Militia, and in 1833 was elected Major-General, and at the
age of sixty-five volunteered for the defense of Washington
against an expected attack during the late Rebellion. He
was a prominent member of the order of Good Templars,
and, in 1872, was one of the Presidential electors on the
National Temperance ticket, and for two years was D. D.
G. W. C. T. for Bradford county. In 1866 he was a dele
gate to the National Conservative Union Convention, and is
the author of an essay on the " Relative Status ofthe White
and Colored Races of Mankind," arguing for their separate
creations, and, consequent disunity. He was also a some
what leading member of the Patrons of Husbandry, and for
two years was President of the Bradford County Historical
Society. Gen, Patton married, first, the eldest daughter of

133
Reuben Hale, and for his second wife Mrs. Ann J. Gai, of
Washington, D. C. Mrs. J. J. Griffith is a daughter, and
the Hon. Jos. G. Patton, a son, he having derived his title
by having been a Senatorial Delegate to the Constitutional
Convention of 1872 to revise the organic law of the State,
where he had the honor of introducing the present system
of an indorsed' and numbered ballot, which affords a ready
means of detecting and preventing fraud. Gen". Patton died
in' 1877, at a little more than 78 years.
fames McCUntock, a young man of superior ability, came
to Towanda in 1824 to read law with his uncle, Ethan
Baldwin. His first plea before a jury was in the case ofthe
Commonwealth vs. Hall, for an aggravated assault on James
P. Bull, editor of the Bradford Settler, in which he dis
played great oratorial powers. His poetic genius was also
more than medium. He settled in Wilkes-Barre. Death
robbed him at once of a loved wife, which together with the
loss of a large property and political defeat, unbalanced a
brilliant intellect, and the darkness of insanity settled on him
forever, momentary gleams of the sunlight of reason only
rendering the gloom more fearful.
Dr. Caleb W- Miles, of whom a notice has been given
elsewhere, was the first permanent resident physician of
Towanda. fames Gilson, a cabinet-maker, established himself in
business at Towanda in 1824. He lived about where Henry
Porter now does, and had a cabinet shop nearly on the line
between the late Jas. Macfarlane and D'A. Overton.
fared Downing Goodenough was born in Guilford, Wind- ¦

134
ham county, Vermont, March 7, 1792. He first came to
Towanda in 1824, from Oxford, Chenango county, N. Y.
He was a saddler and harness maker by trade and carried
on the business here for several years and also followed
general merchandising. In 1835 he was elected Justice of
the Peace and held the office consecutively for seventeen
years. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church
and one of the earlier and advanced members of Union
Lodge, A. Y. M. Always an active and enterprising citi
zen, doing whatever he might to enhance the growth and
prosperity of the village. He died Jan. 6, 1874, in his 82d
year, and his remains are interred in Riverside Cemetery.
In 1825 he was united in marriage with Sybil, daughter of
the late Daniel Brown, of Wyalusing, who yet survives him ,
being in her 8 1st year. Seven children were the fruits of
this marriage, but three of whom are now living — one on
Staten Island, N Y., one in Massachusetts, and one in To
wanda. For a period covering some five years from 1817, Mr.
Goodenough was in the West, making his head-quarters at
St. Louis. For a time he was in the employ of the North
American Fur Company, and made frequent trips by boat
up the Illinois River, purchasing furs, and skins of the In
dians. Chicago in those days was but a hamlet. His deal
ings were principally with two tribes of Indians — the Kick-
apoos and Pottdwatomies— by much intercourse with whom
he acquired their dialect, and could speak it fluently until
his death. Many a lad, who is now perhaps a grandfather,
.will rerflember with what interest he was wont to listen to

135
the divers adventures with the Indians 'Squire Goodenough
had and used to relate. Mr. Goodenough was of the party
that escorted Gen. Lafayette from St. Louis to New Orleans
on the occasion of his last visit to America. By exposure
and malarial influences, Mr. Goodenough contracted the
fever and ague and was advised by his physician to seek
another climate Accordingly, he disposed of his posses
sions at a sacrifice, owning several hundred acres of valuable
land on what was known as the " American Bottom," near
St. Louis, and made the trip from that city to Oxford, N. Y.,
on horseback.
— Of the ancestry of Mr. Goodenough, his great-grand
father of that name emigrated from England when a young
man and Settled in the new' colony of Massachusetts at a
place since called Old Marlborough, where his grandfather
and father, Artemas Goodenough, were born. His grand
father and family were of the pioneers that settled in Ver
mont, a tract of country lying west of the Connecticut river,
then densely inhabited by bears, catamounts, wolves, deer,
&c., said tract of country being claimed by both Massa
chusetts and New York. His grandfather, Ithamar Good-
enough, was commissioned a Lieutenant in the Revolution
ary War, but had command of a company in Col. Benjamin
Ruggles Woodbridge's regiment, 25th Regiment of Foot in
the Continental Army, in 1775, and was at the taking of
Burgoyne. He died in Guilford, Vt., in 1777, aged 63. His
wife was named Smith when a girl, had three husbands and
died a Smith.
J. D. Goodenough's mother was one Margaret Magoon,

136
of Scottish descent. Her people settled in Ware, Mass,
His father and mother were both born in 17^3, his father
dying at the age of 84, and his mother at 89 years, 1 1
months and 7 days. They are both buried in Brookfield,
Madison county, N. Y. They had four children, Artemas,
Eliza, Jared, (the subject of this sketch), and Asenath.
0. D. Goodefiough, son of Jared and a well-known resident
of Towanda, for many years has been connected with
journalism. He wields an able, fluent and versatile pen
and in a manner that is pleasing. In 1859, the Bradford
Herald \vas published by Chase & Goodenough ; in 187 1 the
Towanda Business Item by Goodenough and Clauson.
Subsequently Mr. Goodenough founded the Mansfield Ad
vertiser. He was for some time local editor of the Wells-
b.oro Gazette, and was also connected with the Blossburg
Register. The Bar tie tts were originally Normans, their history dating
back to the times of " William the Conqueror," in whose
army one of them was knighted. Ebenezer Bartlett, the
ancestor of the family in Bradford county, was a Revolu
tionary patriot, and was among the freemen who struck the
first blow for liberty at Lexington. His home was at Brook-
line, a suburb town of Boston.
Daniel Bartlett, a son of Ebenezer, and brother-in-law of
David and George Scott, having received flattering reports
from the Susquehanna Valley of the " Keystone State," in
the fall of i824 started with his family from Berkshire Co.,
Mass., for Bradford county. Upon arriving at Towanda,
there being no vacant houses, he went up to Fowlertown

137
where he remained until the following spring, then returned
to Towanda and took up rooms with the Widow Whitehead.
To establish himself in some kind of business was now a
matter of most concern. In " Yankee land " for many years
he had been a deputy sheriff, and hence was quite unfitted
for the more arduous callings in a new country. Accord
ingly the " Tiger Hotel "* jvas purchased of Jesse Wood
ruff, which Mr. Bartlett continued to keep till about. 1840,
when he retired from active life. Mr. Bartlett was a man
especially noted for his generosity and true kindness of
heart. He was born in Massachusetts, March 9, 1783 ; died
at Towanda, May 6, 1864. His wife, Jane Scott Bartlett,
was born in Connecticutt, June 13, 1791 ; died at Towanda,
Nov. 27, 1 87 1. Orrin D. Bartlett, of whom a notice is else
where given, is a son; Harriet A. (Mxs. Dr. Uriah Scott)
and Charlotte, deceased, daughters.
Col. fames P. Bull came to Towanda from Ohio in 1823
and edited the Bradford Settler, then the sole organ of the
. Democratic party in the county. He was a man of marked
ability, a leader in politics, ranking only second to Gen. Mc
Kean, and an able editor. In fact, he and Gen. McKean
controlled the politics of the Democratic party in the county
for some time. As an editor he was tasteful, energetic, dis
playing great talent, but was impetuous and scathing in his
denunciations of political candidates and parties. For awhile
he held a clerkship in the Treasury Department at Wash
ington. He was Colonel of the Fifteenth regiment, ninth
division of Pennsylvania militia, and at one of the trainings
* So called from the painting of a tiger upon the sign.

138
of the regiment inaugurated a sham'laattle, in imitation of
Indian warfare, which was a most interesting feature. Mr.
Bull married a Miss Nancy Wallace, of Williamsport,. Who
was a sister of Judge Ellis Lewis's wife.
Anna, a daughter of Col. J. P. Bull, married O. H. Piatt,
present U. S. Senator from Connecticut, who at one time
taught in the old academy at Towanda.
George, a son, is an eminent lawyer at Philadelphia, and
ex-member of the State Legislature. He was a candidate
for Congress against Wm. D. Kelley, but was defeated.
The Colonel died at Towanda, June 29, 1842, aged nearly
40 years and is buried at Riverside. Mrs. Bull afterwards
removing to Connecticut, where she resided with her
daughter. David M. Bull, brother of James P., settled in Towanda
in 1824. He was an assistant editor of the Bradford Set
tler, a merchant a'nd mail contractor. During the Rebellion
he was a sutler in the Union army and was a prisoner in
Libby for three months. Through the influence of Senator
Cameron, he secured a position in the Custom House at
New Orleans, at which place he died. He was County
Treasurer from 1835 to 1837.
George H. Bull, also brother of James P., came to To
wanda in 1824. He was a merchant for a time, and took
an active part in the affairs of the borough. He was a man
of stern integrity and was elected a Justice of the Peace. In
about 1835 he purchased what is known as the McCord
property at Highland, which he afterwards sold and pur
chased an interest in what is commonly known as Hale's

139
Mills. He Was a man of fine judgment and served one term
as County Commi.ssioner. Having disposed ofhis property
at Hale's, he removed to Newark, N. J., where he died in
1880, but was brought back to Towanda for burial — the
Towanda Lodge of Free Masons, of which he had formerly
been Master, performing the funeral rites. He was twice
married and had a large family of children. Gurdon L.,
and Walter Bull of Monroeton are sons.
Nathan Bull, father of James, George and David, went
from Saybrook, Conn., to Ohio, thence removed to Towanda
in 1824. He died at Hale's.
Elinas Beebe, a hatter, located in Towanda in 1823, and
Elnathan Beebe, who followed the same avocation, in 1825.
William Flatt, a carpenter, came to Towanda in 1823;
married a daughter of Wm. Keeler and finally removed
West. Francis Delpuech, born at Geneva, Switzerland, and a gen
tleman of culture, educated in French, in 1824 chose the
quietude of Towanda to spend the residue of his days, and
accordingly purchased the Oliver Newell property. He
was a skillful artist, and had a great passion for flowers,
which he took pride in cultivating.. Mr. and Mrs. Delpuech
were estimable personages. An only daughter married
William Dittrich, a native of Saxony, Germany. He was
educated in fhe music schools of Germany and Paris, and
served for a time in the French army, during which time he
was sent with a governmental opera troupe to the West
Indies and South America. Returning to France, he soon
after sailed for America, landed at Philadelphia, joined a

140
theatrical troupe and came to Towanda in the Autumn of
1848. He afterwards joined Welch's circus, which after a
few months he left, and returned to Towanda, where he has
since resided.
Hon. George Tracy, son of Solomon Tracy, a Revolution
ary soldier and early settler into Ulster (1787), came to
Tpwanda in 1824, and engaged in the mercantile business,
his brother, Hon. H. W. Tracy, of Standing Stone, being
associated with him. His store was where the residence of
D'A. Overton now is. Mr. Tracy moved to Monroeton
in 1832.
Wm. D. Vdn Horn, a carpenter, and Curtis Frink, a black
smith, were added to the populace of the town in 1824.
David Cash, a nephew and law-partner of Simon Kinney,
began the practice of his profession at Towanda in 1825.
He was elected Prothonotary of the county in 1839, and
was a candidate for the State Senate, but was defeated by
Hon. Samuel Morris; of Luzerne county. Mr. Cash was
interested in the construction of the North Branch Canal,
and also of the Barclay Railroad. He built a fine residence
on the corner of Third and Poplar streets, on the south
side of the latter, and there lived until the time ofhis death
in 1864, aged 70 years. His wife " Mary Ann Spence.r"
died in 1883, at the age of 77 years. The children of David
and Mary A. Cash were: George, Charles, Fred, Louise,
(Mrs. James Wood,) and Mary (Mrs. H. S. Griswold). David
Cash was brother of George W. Cash.
Alvah Kellogg, a blacksmith, began business in Towanda,

141
in 1825. He married a daughter of Noah Spalding and
lived where A. Snell now does.
Orlo I. Hamlin, artist, took up his abode in the Davis
Vandyke house, where Dr. Pratt's residence now is, in 1825.
He painted pictures, miniatures, etc.
Warren fenkins, grocer, began business in Towanda in
1825. He subsequently engaged in journalism.
Gilbert H. Drake, wagon-maker, located at Towanda in
1825. He had his shop on the ground now occupied by
Jas. McCabe's residence, his house standing where the M.
E. church now is. Benjamin Spees was associated with him
for awhile. Drake afterwards built a house and shop on the
ground now occupied by Humphrey Bros. & Tracy. He
removed to Montrose in 1866.
Hon. David F. Barstow, a native of Litchfield Co., Conn.
who had studied law at Albany, N. Y., and was admitted to
practice in 1821, came to Towanda in 1825. He was a gen-
, tleman of letters, a graduate of Union College, and began
life in Towanda as a teacher. For many years he was a
magistrate and did an extensive business in connection with
collecting. He also practiced at the bar. Mr. Barstow was
a man held in high esteem by his fellow-townsmen and was
honored by them with various local offices of responsibility
and trust, and served the county in the lower branch of the
State Legislature -from 1838 to 1840. He was an active,
pious and devoted member of the Episcopal church, and
stood prominent in its councils, and was a ready supporter
of both church and school interests.
Mr. Barstow married a daughter of Col. Hiram Mix, who

142
yet survives him and occupies«the homestead. He died in
1859, aged 63 years. To Mr. and Mrs. Barstow were born
three children — David Henry, who removed to Maryland ;
¦Henrietta, the wife of Dr. T. B. Johnson, of Towanda ; Caro
Une, who lives with her mother.
Hon. D. F. Barstow was a cousin of Dr. Barstow, of Wy
sox. Amos Mix, the father of Col. Hiram and St. John, came
to Towanda in 1825, and lived with his daughter, Mrs. Isaac
Myer. William Payson was a deputy sheriff and lived in the old
Court House. He came to the village as early as 1820,
moving finally to the State line.
Byron Kingsbmy, son of Col. Joseph Kingsbury, of She
shequin, located in the northern part of the village in 1825,
on the farm now owned and occupied by his son, W. W.
Kingsbury. George Robinson, a weaver by occupation, settled (1825)
in the upper part of the village. He was familiarly known
as " Robinson Crusoe." Thomas Barnes married a daugh
ter. Deacon fames Elliott, a brother of Thomas, kept a gro
cery and drug store, on the corner of Main and Poplar
streets, where Clark B. Porter now is, in 1825. Subse
quently Mr. Elliott sold out and removed to Ulster where
he remained some years then returned to Towanda to close
his years, which almost reached a hundred. See biograph
ical notices.
Morris Spalding, a coysin of Col. Harry, lived in To-

143
wanda for a number of years, first coming thereto as early
as 1 817. In 1822 he and Geo. W. Cash were associated
together in the tanning business, which they continued till
about 1827. He was post-master of Towanda in 1822, ap
pointed County Clerk in 1824, and elected County Commis
sioner in 1834. In 1825, be kept a store and occupied the
framed house, near where the new Episcopal Church foun
dation now is. He afterwards kept a store farther down
town, and finally removed to the State of Illinois with his
family. Obadiah Spalding, a brother of Col. Harry, a " mechanic
and single freeman" lifred in Towanda from 18 12 to 1817.
Noah Spalding, another brother of Col. Harry, who had
been associated with Wm. B. Spalding, (a brother) in lum
bering on the Towanda Creek, became a villager in about
1822. He built a tavern on the east side of tjie river, a
little north of where the bridge approach now is, and kept
it in connection with a ferry. He died in 1835, aged 47
years, and is buried at Riverside.
John A. Spalding came to To^yanda in 1824. He was- a
carpenter by trade ; was elected Constable ; and afterwards
kept a grocery for some time.
f. W. and G. K. Bingham erected a store on the ground
where the Presbyterian Church now stands, and began
business in 1826.
Elisha Munger, a silversmith, or watch repairer, etc., came
to the village in 1825. He had a shop where the ex-press
office now is.
In 1826 the following were also residents of the village:

144
Wm. W. Goodrich, "shoemaker;" John Turner, "mer
chant;" Robert Dunham, "tailor;" Andrew Mclntyre;
John W. Berger, " wagon-maker." ' In 1827 were added :
Charles R. Brown, a cabinet-maker, had a small shop and
continued in business for some time.
Thomas Polleys, a shoemaker, became somewhat conspicu
ous as a fisherman. He had two sens, one of whom at one
time edited a paper at Waverly, N. Y.
Burton Kingsbmy opened- a store on the ground now oc
cupied by E..F. Dittrich & Co., grocers, where he continued
in business for some years, then supplanted the wooden
building by a brick one In 1829 he built a brick residence
on the corner of Pine and Main streets, the same now being
occupied by the Review office, Mrs. Madden's millinery
store, etc., and is the oldest standing brick edifice in Towan
da. Mr. Kingsbury was a successful business man and
amassed a handsome property.
Edward Overton, Esq., father of Col. E. Overton, Jr., in
his time one of the most eminent lawyers in the Northern
tier, occupied the place of now I. O. Blight. For a further
sketch see biographical notices.
foseph D. Montanye came from Owego, N. Y., as a clerk
for Gurdon Hewett, and subsequently formed a mercantile
partnership with Nathaniel N. Betts, Sr., and engaged in
trade at the corner of Main and Court streets, in a frame
building erected by Eliphalet Mason.- In 1848 Mr. Mon
tanye erected a brick building on the same site, which is
now occupied by P. L Decker. After Mr. Betts, a brother,
Elijah, was associated with him for a number of years. For

145
rhore than a half-century he did business on the same ground.
Mr. Montanye was a very excellent citizen and had scores
of friends in the couiity. He married Miss Maria, daughter
of A.'C. Rockwell, of Monroe, the first sheriff of the county
and a pioneer from Connecticut into the township of his
adoption, in 1800. Their children were — Joseph DeLa,
Frank DeLa, George DeLa, and Lester DeLa.
George was a young man of rare abilities and became a
prominent member of the Bradford county bar. He was
elected District Attorney in 1862 and more recently appoint
ed U. S. Collector of Internal Revenue. As a politician he
was eminently successful, and was, moreover, a gentleman
of refined taste and extensive literary attainments.
The Montanye family were originally Huguenots. They
fled from France to Holland, at the time of the massacre of
St. Bartholomew, and came from Holland with the Dutch,
in the early settlement of New Amsterdam, and took a
prominent part in founding what is now New York City.
One of the family was Governor of New Amsterdam in
its early history. Others held high positions of trust
both, in church and State.
The grandfather of Joseph Montanye was frequently
employed by Gen. Washington, during the Revolutionary
war, as bearer of dispatches and in other confidential re
lations. Ex-Sheriff Layton occupies the Montanye home
stead. Mr. Montanye'died May 18, 1880, aged 78 years;
and Mrs. Montanye Aug. 31, 1881, at the age of 72.
Cornelius fudson was associated for a time with his
father-in-law, Wm. Keeler, in the mercantile business.
(V)

146
Dr. Samuel C. Huston, a native of Essex county, Mass.,
and graduate of Dartmouth College and the Boston medi
cal school under the celebrated Dr. Fowler, , first began the
practice of medicine at New Londonderry, N. H., where he
remained until he came to Towanda (1827). He became
eminent in his profession, and was called to the sick bed
for miles around. He was a man of great firmness, integ
rity of purpose and strong likes and dislikes. He was un
swervingly a Democrat in politics and prominently identified
with the Masonic fraternity. Dr. Hu.ston married Miss
Emeline, daughter of Col. Hiram Mix. He died May 20,
1856, aged 60 years. A son occupies a part of the home
stead on York Avenue. Huston street was so called in his
honor. William W. Goodrich (1826) came in from the State of
New York to take charge of the tanning interests of Geo.;
Kirby (father of Job), who for a time had a tannery on the
bank of the river, near the west end of the old dam. He
engaged in shoe-making and in the sale of merchandise.
After some years he removed to Wysox, where he died.
He was the grandfather of Dr. Reed.
The following citizens were added to Towanda in 1828:
^ fesse Taylor, a house painter and chair-maker by occu
pation. facob Whitman, a tailor, and man of much activity.
Perrin Wells, also a tailor, had a shop where G. M. Clark's
place of business now is. '
Edward F. Young, this year, started the first foundry at
Towanda. It was operated by horse-power, and stood on

147
' the bank ofthe river just above State street. Spencer Good-
ale, in a couple of years, became the owner of the property.
Mr. Young subsequently built up an extensive business at
Monroeton. George Wansey, an Englishman of culture and considera
ble landed estate, was a resident of the county seat for sev
eral years. He was a Christian gentleman of great benevo
lence. So addicted was he lo his native country that he
never became a naturalized citizen of the United States.
Mrs. Wansey was an English lady of paragon amiability.
She moved with her husband to Genesee Falls, N. Y.
Additions made in 1829:
•Samuel Gordon, a saddler and harness-maker, was a resi
dent of the village for several years.
Pliny Nichols was assistant county clerk, then engaged in
business where the Ward House now stands. He died in
1832, and his widow subsequently married Dr. Hiram Rice.
Zenas and Benjamin Thomas, cousins, and hatters by oc
cupation, were successors to Henry Mercur. The latter, es
pecially, was a man of remarkable natural talents. His chil
dren were exceptionally bright, and he that was familiarly
kno-wn as "Little Ben Thomas " in Towanda more, than
thirty years ago, is to-day that clear-headed gentleman, of
noble manhood, who has the general superintendency of the
N. Y., Lake Erie & Western Railroad. Much to his credit,
he earned his place by his sterling integrity, perseverance,
care and punctuality in business, having begun his career as
a poor boy.
Hon. Ellis Lewis was one ofthe stars who have been resi-

148
dents of Towanda. In 1832 he was a volunteer candidate
for the State Legislature, being indorsed by the Indepen
dent Democrats and National Republicans, and was elected
over the regular Democratic nominee. He was a bright
and able mind, and at the time ofhis practice at our county
seat was conceded the ablest lawyer of the Bradford county
bar. While in the State Legislature he made an excellent
record, and displayed superior judgment, making him so
conspicuous in the State, that he was soon after chosen At
torney-General. Subsequently he became President Judge
ofthe several courts of Lancaster county, and in 185 1 was
elected to the bench of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania,,
becoming Chief Justice, Jan. 5, 1855. As a lawyer andjurist
he ranked among the foremost, and leaves a bright page on
the judicial history ofthe " Keystone .State" He spent the
last years ofhis life in Philadelphia, where he left a fine for
tune. His Towanda home was the house now occupied by
Mrs. Barstow.
William Watkins, born in Windsor county, Vermont,
chose law as his profession, studied and was admitted to the
bar in Montpelier in 1825. In 1828 he married Almira
Hulett, and soon after removed to Towanda. He eave him-
self immediately to the practice of his profession, never
engaging in speculation, and only participating in the pass
ing questions of the day, when he considered a moral priff-
ciple to be involved. His keen perception of character and
motive, and persistency of purpose, secured him, in time, a
reputation for shrewdness as a lawyer, aijd the integrity of
mind, that was a distinguishing trait, gave him an undis-

149
puted claim to the confidence of his clients and the respect
of his neighbors and friends. Mr. Watkins was a man of
strong convictions, and of such as did not always lead into
avenues of popularity. He identified himself with the
earliest Abolition movements in the county, when a single
Old colored man, fami"liarly known as " Black Henry," was
his main ally. Years later, in the interval of which history
was verifying the correctness of his sympathies, his eldest
son. Lieutenant- Colonel Guy H. Watkins, who had early
enlisted in the war of the Rebellion, fell in the fruitless
charge before Petersburg, June i8, 1864. An instinct of
tenderness towards the unprotected or unfortunate made
him a loving as well as watchful parent and husband, and
a friend that could be relied on in adversity. Remember
ing the difficulties he had himself when obliged to over
come, as a stranger, in a State with whose laws he was un
familiar, he invariably evinced a kindly interest in the young
men of the profession. Mr. Watkins died in the home he
had inhabited nearly fifty years, Sept. 12, 1877, aged 75
years. Mrs. Watkins died Feb. 9, 1879, at the age of 72.
Their children were two sons, Guy H., William H., and
two daughters, who married respectively, Hon. W. T. Davies
and H. L. L'Amoureux.
Increase from 1830 to '31, inclusive:
Wm. T. Buttrie manufactured chairs, bed-steads, etc, for
several years and did a good business. He had his shop on
the bank ofthe river, between State and Pine streets.
Nathaniel Eaton, a chair-maker, was associated first with
James Gillson and afterwards with Chas. R. Brown.

150
William Foley attended ferry for Mr. Kelly. Mrs. Foley
was the village laundress, and introduced paper collars
among the young men.
Hamlet A. Kerr for two years edited and published the
Bradford Settler.
Seth W. Paine engaged in the mercantile trade until
, 1 835,. when he sold' out and went to Troy, where he did an
extensive business, which gave a great impetus to the growth
of that town. Mr. Paine has been a man of much enter
prise, and is yet living at Troy at an advanced age He is
a man of a noble Christian character.
Capt. Nicholas Hentz, a native of France, landed in this
country in 18 16 and settled in Wilkes-Barre, and learned
the tinner's trade, whence he removed to Towanda (1830).
He served as a captain in the French army under Napoleon
I., in the Imperial Guard, and afterwards in regiments ofthe
line, from 1806 to the downfall of the emperor, but did not
resign his commission' until he accompanied his father to the
United States. His father (Nicholas Hentz) was a member
ofthe National Assembly of France during the Revolution
of 1792, and belonged to the party of the Mountain, and
was a colleague of Robespierre and St. Just. He was on
the legislative committee, and assisted in compiling the code
of laws known as the " Code Napoleon." After the death
of Robespierre he was proscribed by the convention and
sentenced to imprisonment for life in the Castle of Harm,
but lived in concealment, under the assumed name of Ar
nold for a number of years, and thus eluded being captured.
Having cast his vote for the death of Louis XVL, he was

151
excepted from the general amnesty on the restoration of the
Bourbons, and was ordered to leave France in thirty days ;
and accordingly, with all his family except one son, who re
mained in Paris, on the 2 ist of January, i8l6 — the day on
which Louis XVI. was beheaded — he sailed from Havre for
the United States.
Capt. Hentz followed his trade in Towanda for a few
years, then removed to Huntsville, Ala., where he died. He
was an uncle of the authoress, Caroline Lee Hentz.
Hiram Rice \eaxned the printer's trade with J. P. Bull, and
'from 1833 to 183s was editor and proprietor of the Northern
Banner. He studied medicine and removed to Rome where
he practiced until the time of his demise. A son. Dr. Wm.
Rice, succeeds him, and ranks high in the medical profes
sion. Mrs. Rice is an accomplished lady and is yet living
at an advanced age.
fames Warford was a wagon-maker of the village for a
number of years. In his younger days he had read all the
popular tales, and took great pride in rehearsing them to the
village lads.
Nehemiah f. Keeler followed clerking for a number of
years in Towanda. He married a daughter of Jesse Taylor.
A. C Steadman, for a time a resident of the borough, was-
a fcabinet-maker.fokn E. Geiger, a gunsmith, came from Elmira to Towan
da in 1830 and started the first regular gun shop in the town
and perhaps in the county. He was a thorough and skillful
workman and continued at his trade until 1858, when he
was succeeded by hi;s son, J. V. Geiger, popularly known as

152
" Boss Geiger," who is still engaged in the same business.
Mr. Geiger purchased a desirable property in East Towanda,
where he spent his closing days.
Elisha S. Goodrich, the founder of the Bradford Porter, or
Reporter, who was one of the most prominent and useful
citizens of the county, made Towanda his home for many
years. In another part of this work will be found a bio
graphical sketch of him and his son, E. O. Goodrich.
William Smalley began blacksmithing in the village in
1832 ; subsequently sold to his brother Isaac and removed
to Ulster.
Lyman H. Hodges kept an " inn" in 1*832 where the
Ward House now stands.
Mark C Arnout came as a tanner (1832) and finally
bought out Andrew Irvine. After some years he removed
to Granville township and engaged in farming.
Eli Beard began selling goods on the corner now occu
pied by Stevens & Long in 1833. He finally moved to
Troy and re-engaged in the same business.
Neely & Shoemaker came to Towanda in the same year
as Beard, and kept a store where Decker Bros, now are ;
Geo. W. Miles, in 1833, was engaged in watch-making
and repairing ; fohn Savage was a hatter ; Edward Watts,
a tailor ; Charles Tousey, a saddler ; Geo. A. Mix (brother of
Col. Hiram) a teacher ; Thomas Sliiply, a tailor ; Nathan
Tuttle, a shoemaker, who afterwards built a hotel on the
ground now occupied by the Presbyterian Church.
Elijah Montanye came as a clerk for his brother, Joseph
D., and was finally a partner with him. He was also alone

153
in the mercantile trade, and had a second store at Monroe
ton In addition to the sale of goods he did quite an ex
tensive lumbering business on Towanda Creek. Mr. Mon
tanye was a wide-awake business man, kind and affable in
his intercourse with others. His frank and genial manner,
his hearty greeting and his cordial grasp, won the affection
aud secured the friendship of all who met him. He was
benevolent without ostentation, and his charities were wil
ling offerings, which blessed alike the giver and recipient.
In all his dealings he was honest, upright in all his actions
and remarkably remindful of the rights and feelings of
others. He had an acquaintance with the citizens of the
county that was intimate and general. His demise occurred
May 7, 185 1, in the 51st year of his age. He married Miss
Celinda Griffis, who survives him. An only daughterris the
wife of D'A. Overton, Esq.
Hon. William Elwell took up his residence at the county
seat in 1833, and became one of the most distinguished
members ofthe Bradford county bar. He is a man of fine
abilities, thoroughly versed in all the technicalities of the
law, and " could talk to the Court, while Wilmot could talk
to the jury." Judge Elwell removed from Towanda to
Bloomsburg, Columbia Co., Pa., and was unanimously
chosen President Judge ofthe 26th Judicial District, a place
of honor which he still fills. He ranks with the ablest
juri.sts ofthe State, and his decisions are held in esteem by
the foremost lawyers. Judge Elwell is a gentleman of un
impeachable character, and in his profession and out of it,
has always been fair. His life is an example worthy the
(W)

154
emulation of any young man of true grit. Beginning life's
struggles, unaided, through his own exertions, he reached
the place of honor, which he has ably sustained. His old
home in Towanda is occupied by his son, Ephraim Elwell.
Isaac Smalley succeeded his brother, William, (1833) and
is still a resident of the town. He is the father of Rev.
Frank Smalley, of Syracuse University, a gentleman entitled
to much credit for his accomplishments. Beginning his
struggles in life unaided, he earned money, educated him
self, graduating at the Susquehanna Collegiate Institute,
and Syracuse University with honors. At the latter insti
tution he is professor of languages, and is an author of
several text-books of merit on the classics.
foseph Kingsbury , fr., son of Col. Jos. Kingsbury, has
been a resident ofthe county town since a school boy. He
was first associated with his brother, Burton, then engaged
in the general mercantile business, alone, with also the sale
of books and stationery, continuing until the beginning of
the Rebellion. He was then appointed Deputy Collector
of U. S. Internal Revenue, a capacity in which he acted for
fourteen years, proving a most efficient and -trustworthy
official. Mr. Kingsbury is a gentleman of a high sense of
honor, and is held in esteem by his fellow-townsmen.
As an evidence of his worth and popularity, it is befitting
to state, that since 1873 he has been chosen successively
borough Treasurer and Secretary."
Enos Tompkins, a native of New York City and near
relative of Daniel D. Tompkins, Vice-President, during
Monroe's first term, came from the South to what is now

155
the pleasant village of Rome,' in about 1823. He purchased
the lands now embraced in the lower half of that borough,
built a fine residence — the Judge Passmore house — and es
tablished a factory for the manufacture of clock cases, under
the firm name of Tompkins, Fuller & Co. The enterprise
'vi'as a great benefit to the surrounding country, as it gave a
home market for lumber, and always paid cash. Like en
terprises were established by the company in the West,
Canada, and other places, and kept in operation at the same
time In 1834 Mr. Tompkins Sold out his interests in Rome to
his brother-in-law, Lucius Fuller, and came to Towanda
and purchased the property now owned by B. M. Peck, A.
]. 'Layton, etal He built and occupied the Layton resi-
dence^in its time counted the handsomest in the county.
Upon locating at the County-seat, he built a factory on the
bank of the river, between Park and State streets, for the
manufacture of bedsteads. He had the sole right of manu
facturing the old wooden screw rollers. After continuing
this business for about four years, he and Thomas Elliott
purchased a large strip of land in the southern part of the
borough, and he erected a large establishment for the man
ufacture of chairs and bedsteads, on the ground now occu
pied by the Eureka buildings. The business gave a con
siderable impetus to the prosperity of the town, and did
much for the surrounding community. In about 1842 the
institution was converted into a foundry and agricultural im
plement factory, which he continued for several years the'n sold
to L'Amoreux Bros. After- this he turnedhis attention to the

156
sale ofhis real estate in the village. Besides the property
already mentioned, he owned the greater part of the land
lying between Lombard and State streets, and extending -
from Main street back to the " old convent.'' Having dis
posed of his property, he went to Belvidere, 111., purchased
a number of acres where the city now is, and there died a
little more than a year since, in affluence at an advanced
age. Mr. Tompkins was a man of active business habits,
sterling integrity and sagacity. He was one of the foun
ders and managers of the old Towanda Bank, and_ was for
many years President ofthe Towanda Bridge Company. His
enterprise did more for the up-building of Towanda, in his
time, than that of any other one man. Mr. Tompkins was
a highly respected citizen and a member of the Presbyterian
Church. Dr. E. R. Utter, formerly a resident of Columbia, came to
Towanda in 1834, and edited and published the Bradford
Argus. Others who came to Towanda in 1834 we're — H. L. Kings
bury, painter ; Daniel Miller, blacksmith; G. H. Bunting,
tailor; Silas Noble, lawyer; Edward Young, a native of
England, and father of Prothonotary Young, came to tbe
village previously, and in 1839 moved to Columbia.
In 1835-36 the following names were added to the assess
ment list of Towanda :
John C. Adams, lawyer; Sheldon S. Bradley; J. M. Chil-
son, silversmith ; Hogan & Gantine, printers ; G. H. Dal-
rimple, tailor ; Jno R.Eaton, shoema'ker ; Jno. Frost, shoe
maker; Abram Goodwin, merchant; — Johnson, silver-

157 „
smith; Dummer Lilley, printer; Jno. Lockwood, black
smith ; Clement Paine, merchant ; Page & Ellsworth, mer
chants ; Isaac H. Ross, shoemaker (also kept hotel) ; Isaac
C. Ray, barber; Jonathan R. Coolbaugh; Wm. B. Storm,
cashier of Towanda bank ; R. B. Stewart, merchant ; Rich
ard Wheeler, grocer ; Edward White, merchant ; David
Wilmot, lawyer ; Richard Wright, hatter ; Jabez Wright,
hatter; Geo. Williams, tailor.
Names added in 1837 :
Bottom & Scott, bridge builders ; Thomas Black, shoe
maker; V. H. Bruce, cabinet maker; William E. Barton,
constable; S. S. Bailey, merchant; Jeremiah Culp, saddler;
Edmund S. Castle, merchant; E. S. Clark, grocer; A. M.
Coe, inn-keeper ; Thomas Coombs, shoemaker ; A. S. Cham
berlain, Commissioners' clerk; John Decker, shoemaker ;
— Harkness, grocer ; L. L. Hancock, shoemaker ; James
P. Kinsman ; J. P. Lawrence ; Adonijah Moody, butcher ;
Jno. Morris, carpenter; James Matoon, brickmaker; —
O'Grady ; Amos Pennypacker, tailor; Samuel Riley, black
smith ; Nicholas Shoemaker, of the firin of Neely & Shoe
maker; Seth Steel, barber; Elkanah Smith, saddler; H. H..
Seely, fork-maker ; Charles Shockey, baker ;: Rial Taylor,'
blacksirtith ; Geo. H. Taylor, grocer; Daniel Vandercook,
cabinet-maker; John Wilson,- bedstead manufacturer; Ster
ling W. Wells, blacksmith ; Henry Yontz, tailor.
Names added in 1838 :
E. F. Bliven, wagon-maker; Hiram Beech, printer ; Alieni
S. Burnhanri, inn-keeper ; R. R. Carpenter, crockery mer-'
chant ; John Carman, foundryman ; Luke Gillespie ; Fran-

158
CIS, Heath, blacksmith; J. P. Kirby & Co.; Isaac W. Love-
land ; James Nestor, grocer ; Ralph Peters ; G. W. Row,
baker; Geo.' Sanderson, lawyer; Abram Savercool ; Gil
bert Seeman, tailor; Gso. Stein, blacksmith; Wm. Shep
hard, grocer; Patrick Slain, grocer ; C. Sullivan, shoemaker ;
O. R. Tyler, merchant; Hugh O'Hara, grocer.
Names added in 1839 : '
Henry Butler; John Britton, butcher; Abram Brads,
wagon-maker ;¦ Thomas Barnes; Josiah Betts, shoemaker;
M. J. Clark, contractor ; Wm. Chamberlin, silversmith ; A.
F.Day, cooper; Henry Essenwine, blacksmith; Gabriel
Eldridge, hatter ; Freeman Fairchild, harness-maker ; John
B. Ford, tailor; E. L. Fuller, printer; Stephen Hathaway,
shoemaker; James H. Heaton, lawyer; Harvey Jones, inn
keeper; H. F. Kellum, clerk; A. M. Warner, silversmith;
Tracy & Moore, rnerchants ; Wm H. Overton ; Ziba Pat-
ridge ; Samuel B. Roberts, grocer; Charles Day, cooper.
Names added. in 1840:
E. W. Baird, attorney ; Miles Carter, merchant; Coryell,
Heylman & Co., dam builders ; John Carter.
Airiong the most prominent and distinguished person
ages who have been residents of Towanda since 1840 were.
thefollowing: Hon. John LaPorte, Christopher L. Ward,
Esq., Hon. Chas. R. Coburn, Col, G. F. Mason, James Mac-^
farlane, Esq., Warner H. Carnochan, Esq., Jacob Dewitt,
Esq., Col. Abram Edwards, Hon. L. P. Williston, (Johm P.
Cox, Rev. Dr. Betinett of North wpsterii University, 111., Rev.
Wm. Harris ejc-Treasiiret' of Princeton College, Rev. Geo. C.
Jones, Rev. Dr. L. F. Congdpn, E. H, Smith, Wm. H. Per-'

159
kins, B. S. Russell, Hon. Geo. Sanderson, J. C. Adams, Esq.,
Hon. Chas. M. Turner, M. D., Hon. Isaac Foster, Hon.
F. B. Streeter. THE .MOST CELEBRATED CHARACTER
Towanda has ever had was the Hon. David Wilmot, whose
name stands conspicuous among the great men of the Re
public. For a sketch ofhis life see biographical notices.
eminent characters.
Harry L. Horton, the New York banker and millionaire,-
who is without doubt the richest man the county has ever
produced, was at one time a clerk in Powell's store. He is
the son of William B. and Malinda Blackman Horton, and
was born in the town of SheSheqiiin, July 17, 1832. In all
his undertakings he has been eminently successful, and
seems to be gifted almost with the "golden touch " in making
money. Mr. Horton is a true gentleman, endowed with a
kind and generous heart, free from ostentation, never forget
ting his former associates who have been less prosperous
than he.
Ex-Governor Henry M. Hoyt was a law student at To
wanda, and a teacher in the old academy with George R.
Barker. Hon. Orville H. Piatt, U. S. Senator of Connecticut, was
at one time principal ofthe old academy, and married a To
wanda belle.
Hon. fhomas Ryan was a clerk and law student at To
wanda. He was a volunteer ofthe 141st P. V. ; went West
at the close of the war; in 1877 was elected to the 45 th

160
Congress and re-elected successively to the 46th, 47th, 48th
and 49th Congresses, receiving at his last election nearly
twice as many votes as his Democratic competitor.
Hon. Ulysses Mercur, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
of Pennsylvania, has attained a greater distinction than any
other person ever born in Towanda.
Lion. Ellis Lewis, fudge Wm. Elwell, Benjamin Thomas and
others mentioned in this volume, Towanda is very proud to
own as having once been citizens.
,; towanda.
Original Names.
Upon locating the site of the Court House in 181 2, the
proprietors laid out the town into lots and streets, which on
the original plat was called " Overton,'' and is so called in
the deed conveying the public or court house square, and a
lot on State street, below Main, for county offices, to " Jos
eph Kinney, Justus Gaylord and Wm. Myer, Commissioners
of the county and their successors in office, in trust for the
use of the county," described as being a part of a large tract
called " Canewood," and patented to William Kepple, May
I7> 1785. who conveys the same to Adam Kuhn, Aug. 24,
1795, and he to Thomas Overton, Oct. 24, 1810, being the
tract of land where the stake was stuck for the county town
of Bradford county, now called " Overton," containing two
acres, more or less.
Efforts were made to call the town Meansville, in honor
of William Means, one of the proprietors, and it generally
went by that name for several years. However, many were
bitterly opposed to the name, which gave rise to the follow-

161
ing petition for naming the county town, presented to the
Court May 8, 1815 :
" Upon the petition of the inhabitants of the town plot,
laid out for the seat of justice in the county of Bradford, to
wit : Simon Kinney, Chas. F. Welles, Harry Spalding, Oba
diah Spalding, Ebenezer B. Gregory, Jesse Woodruff, A. C.
Stewart, Adam Conly, John E. Kent, Andrew Irwin, Burr
Ridgway, and O. A. Holden, all b,eing the said inhabitants
¦ — and John Franklin, Julius Tozer, Joseph Kinney, John
Saltmarsh, Joseph Kingsbury, David Paine, Michael R.
Thorp, Ezra Spalding, Nathaniel Allen, Salmon Bosworth,
Edward Herrick, Ethan Baldwin, and other citizens of Brad
ford county, setting forth that the inhabitants of the town
plot aforesaid have unanimously selected the name of Mon
mouth for the designation of said town, and that the peti
tioners have concurred in the adoption of said name, agree
ing to introduce it into general and permanent use ; and
therefore respectfully request that the Hon. John B. Gibson
and his Associate Judges permit the petition to be filed and
remain of record among the archives of the Court of Brad
ford county. Therefore the Court permit the said petition
to be deposited in the office ofthe Court aforesaid.
" Per curiam : '• JOHN B. GIBSON, President.
" Attest : Chas. F. Welles, Clerk."
For a year the Gazette was dated at " Monmouth," also
court records, but yet the name was not satisfactory, and
Burr Ridgeway in his issue of the Bradford Gazette, dated
March 4, 18 16, at " Williamston," says :
(X)

162
" The name of this village having become the source of
considerable impetuosity and unreasonable strife, the editor,
willing to accommodate all, announces a new name this
day — may it give satisfaction and become permanent.''
The prefix, William, ofthe " new name" was still designed
to honor Mr. Means, and the strife continued more earnestly
than before. Each name had its advocates, and in almost
any date of the Gazette of 1816, may be found notices
signed at Williamston, Monmouth, Towanda and Means
ville. Other names were tried on, but did not fit well enough to
wear very long. Among these, the old name of Claverack
was suggested, and Oct. 27, 181 5, E. B. Gregory gives
notice of property for sale, signing Vauxhall.
Again in 1822, the Bradford Settler was dated at Means
viUe. The contest over the new name assumed a political
phrase, the Democrats favoring the name of Meansville and
the opposition that of Towanda.
" In 1828, James P. Bull and Wm. Patton, leading Demo
crats of the county, who had previously influenced the Sen
ator from the district. Judge Ryan, to oppose the incorpo
ration, finally yielded to the strong current of popular feel
ing,, and acquiesced in the incorporation by the name of
Towanda,* which in the Inrlian dialect was pronounced
To-wan-daugh and by the primitive inhabitants in its vicin
ity Toivn-day."
* We art told, however, that a private meeting of the citizens was called, who signed a
petition to the Legislature for the incorporation of the borough under the name of Towanda;
and that before they were detected by their opponents, it had passed into a law.

163
location and description.
Towanda, the most populous town in the county, is situ
ated on the right bank ofthe Susquehanna, at the eastern
end of a plateau that rises about 1,400 feet above the river,
and extends westward to the Armenia Mountains, The
Court House is in latitude 41" 47' north, and in longitude
25° 28' east of Washington.
The altitude on Main street in front of the Public Square
is 732 feet above tide. We give the following apt descrip
tion in the words of another :
" The town is beautifully located, standing on the Wyso.x
end of the bridge, it spreads itself out before the beholder
like a pre-Raphaelite picture, glowing in the sunlight and
shadows. The foreground of the landscape is the broad,
blue mirror ofthe Susquehanna and the long line of stately
stores and ware-houses of Main street, broken by the spires
of the Court House and the Presbyterian Church. While
rising in terraces, peeping out from the beautiful foliage
which half conceals them, the comfortable homes and neat
residences on Second, Third, and Fourth streets, clinging
to the hilly back-ground, recall to the mind visions of the
celebrated hanging gardens of ancient Babylon. It is a
scene of natural beauty that is rare in its combination of
natural and artificial adornments, — one that is rare in any
country, even in our own favored land, so beautiful by na
ture, so adorned by human endeavor."
-establishment of the county seat.
"The bill erecting Ontario county in 1810 (changed to
Bradford in 181 2), provided that the trustees should select

164
the site for the Court House, which, however, must be with
in five miles ofthe geographical center of the county, Wy
sox, Towanda and Monroe were the candidates for the
location of the seat of justice, and each sent petitions to the
trustees preferring its claim, and urging its advantages over
the other places named. In order to reach a conclusion
best for the county, the trustees appointed a day on which
they would meet delegates from the various localities, at
the house of Wm. Means, P^sq., and there determine the
question. The day arrived and so did the deleg.ates, but
they were informed that the trustees had come the day be
fore and early that morning had set the stakes* for the
location of the Court House; Esquire Means declaring,
with a twinkle of his eye, that persons were susceptible to
various kinds of arguments." Thomas Overton gave the
county the land for the public square and laid out the vil
lage of Towanda.
Esquire Means donated from-his portion of the plat two
lots on the corner of " Second and Spruce'' (now Bridge)
street for church purposes ; E. B. Gregory gave two lots on
the corner of " Second and Beech" (now State) street for an
* The people of Wysox were very much disappointed at the decision of, the trustees. They
had supposed, as a matter of course, the fine plains of the east side of the river, were a
more preferable site for a town than the steep slde-hiUs on the opposite side. It will be re
membered that one of the schemes for the new county, provided that the county seat should
be at Wysox. In anticipation of this, a town plat had been surveyed, the streets marked and
named, and the place called New Baltimore. So certain were the people of this arrangement
that the i.itserne /''ederatot of Sept. 7, 1810, says : '^ We are informed that the new seat of
justice for Ontario county is fixed by the Comraisaioners at Wysox." In an advertisement of
a farm at Wysox, the advertiser describes it as '* adjoining the plat of New Baltimore, which
will undoubtedly be the county seat of the new county." This "pinion was strengthened
from the fact that Moses Coolbaugh, one of the trustees, was a resident aud large property
owner in Wysox.

165
academy ; and a subscription of several hundred dollars was
taken towards defraying the expense of building the Court
Flouse and jail, as part ofthe consideration for locating the
public buildings at Towanda. The original proprietors of
the town were William Means, Thomas Overton, Shepard
& Dorrance, Ebenezer B. Gregory, and Harry Spalding.
That portion owned by Wm. Means was from the square be
low South street — so called because it was the southermost
street ofthe plat — up to the run between Pine and Spruce,
now called Bridge street ; Overton and Shepard & Dorrarice
owned from Means's line up to Beech, now called Slate
street; Gregory owned from their line to the western ter
minus of Maple street, whence his line diverged northeast
wardly to a point near the corner of Tanner and Second
streets, whence it diverged still farther eastwardly to the
river at the terminus of Tanner street ; Overton & Spalding
owned all north of Gregory's line.
The corners of the streets were laid north two degrees,.
east, and north 88 degrees west, being 49^ feet in width,
except Front, now called Main street, — the principal street, —
Poplar, and Beech, which were 66 feet wide. From the
river westward the streets were five squares in length, eight
lots to the square, and were called Water (a considerable
strip next the river). Front, Second, Third, and Fourth
streets ; from south to north they were called South, Spruce,
Pine, Poplar, Beech, Maple, Lombard, Tanner, Chestnut,
and Walnut.
Owing to the divergence of the line of the Kepple war
rant from near the western terminus of Lombard street.

166
towards the river, being north 50 degrees east, some of the
squares along the northern diagonal boundary line were
reduced to ¦ fractional parts of a square As Elizabeth
street (so called after Elizabeth Means) and other streets
have been laid out south of South street, the name of that
street has been by common consent changed to Washington
street. Since the bridge over the Susquehanna was located
at the eastern terminus of Spruce street, that has been
known .as Bridge street ; and as the State road passes west-
wardly through the borough and diagonally crosses Beech
street and was made to conform to it, it was given the
name of State street.
The original map is still extant, and is headed " Plan
of Overton in Bradford county. Pa." The only buildings
located upon it are " Gregory's house," " store," and a
smaller building unnamed, all in the same square, and -ad
jacent lots. COURT house and JAIL.
As already stated, until the Court House was built, the
courts were held at the " Red Tavern," and the jail kept by
Sheriff Rockwell at his residence in Monroeton. The deed
for the public square was dated Aug. 19, 1813, and arrange
ments were at once consummated for the erection of an office
for the Commissioners and Prothonotary, Joseph Elliott con
tracting for the same at ,^335. The office* was completed
and occupied August 4th, of the same year.
* This was a wooden buUding and occupied the sit6 of the engine house, the " fire-proof,"
a stone building, afterwards occupying the same ground.. A couple of rooms in the old Court
House were also used as offices for awhile. In 1857-68 the present Prothouotary's and Reg
ister's office was built. It is a fire.proof building and cost about S7,5U0.

167
Under date of Sept. 30, 1813, the County Commissioners
give notice in the Bradford Gazette that " they are desirous
of making contracts for materials for building a court house
and gaol ; and request those who have subscribed sums for
the public buildings to meet them at their office in Towanda
on the 3d day of November next." The work was begun
in 1 8 14, the Commissioners hiring' the masonry done by the
day, and contracting with Peter Egner, of Northumberland,
for the building of the superstructure. The Court House
was completed and occupied Jan. 9, 1816.
Among the bills audited were some for the expenses in
" raising " the building, one of which was ^46.50 for whisky
and ^4 for cider, and another, ^91.82 for meals.
The building* was burned down in the great fire of 1847.
The records of the Commissioners contain the following
entry made by the clerk : " March 12, 1847. — This day the
greatest fire occurred in Towanda that has ever been known
in this section ofthe country. It broke out on Main street
between one and two o'clock, p. m., and among other build
ings the Coi^rt House and jail were burned."
An act was passed by the Legislature March 15, 1847,
enabling the county to make a loan for the erection of new
buildings, and a contract was made with Col. J. F. Means,
June 25, 1847, Sidney Hayden being the sub- contractor, who
fulfilled the contract. The new building (the present one)
was occupied in September, 1 850. Its approximate cost,
* The old Court House stood where the Prothouotary's and Register's office now is, extend
ing farther north, being lengthwise with the river. The basement was " the jail," and a cou
ple of rooms on the first floor were also used for keeping prisoners, the balance of the floor
being occupied by the jailor. The court-room was on the second floor.

168
complete and finished for use, was ^28,000. The prisoners
in the jail the same year of its completion attempted to de
stroy it by fire, but were frustrated, the fire being discovered
and extinguished before serious damage was done. An ap
prehension of a repetition ofthe attempt, which might prove
successful, led to the construction of the present massive
structure on Pine, between Main and Second streets, which
Was erected in 1871-72, Avery Frink, architect, at a cost of
;^65,ooo. For strength and adaptation to the purposes of a
county prison it is probably not excelled in the State, and is
equalled by very few similar structures. It is constructed'
of mill stone brought from Millstone creek. It contains a
¦' dwelling-house " basement 30 by 60 feet, all two stories
high, the stories being 10 feet 6 inches in the clear. The
main entrance on Pine street is a massively built archway,
and the entire building presents an appearance of strength
and durability that gives a most pleasing sense of security
to the residents ofthe county.
GROWTH and development.
The present site of the borough of Towanda, when the
first settlers came to it, was covered with a dense growth of
timber and shrubs, so notably as to be known by the older
settlers as " Canewood "; and the midnight howl of wolves
and the piercing scream of panthers were often heard in close
proximity to the villagers' primitive log dwellings. When
first laid out the village had but a single street— a narrow
wagon road along what is now Main street, called the " Tioga
Point " road. The ravines near Bridge and Lombard streets

169
were crossed by bridges of logs covered with planks, which
becoming rotten, made their transit dangerous. Judge La-
porte once fell through the lower one with his team, but for
tunately without injury to his person or horses.
In 1812 there were seven* families in Towanda village,
and though it was the seat of justice, in 18 16 the number
had only increased to twelve ; in 1820 the number was about
thirty, and in 1830 about fifty. In Sherman Day's account
of Towanda, 1842, he puts the population at 912, which had
increased to 1135 in 1850; 1571 in i860; 2696 in 1870;
3813 in 1880, the number now being about 4,000.
The establishment of Towanda as the county seat, bring
ing the officers and the official business of the county hith
er, alone insured a gradual growth of the place. But, besides,
the town has natural advantages; and has received an im.petus
from time to time. It will be- remembered that when the
Commissioners agreed upon the site for the public build
ings, there was no bridge across the Susquehanna,' which,
especially during the spring of the year, was impassable ;
and that fully two-thirds ofthe people to be accommodated,
lived on the west side of the river. Moreover, two valleys
— the natural outlets — draining the greater portion of the
county lying west of the river, converge gradually and ter
minate with the valley ofthe Susquehanna, midway between
which the village of Meansville was situated. Before the
day of roads such goods as were consumed by the pioneers
were brought up the river' in boats. Lumber and shingles
were about the only articles for which money could be had.
* Really but flve, as Newell and the Watts family were then considered out of the village.
(Y)

170
Mr. Means kept goods and trafficked with the people. Mills
were early established up the Sugar and Towanda creeks,
lumber cut and in the spring floated down these streams to
the river, in small rafts ; roads were also built at an early
day up these creeks, and Towanda became, as it is to-day,
the business centre ofthe county.
Andrew Irvin-e's tannery, the erection of the bridge in
1832, Enos Tompkin's enterprises,' the establi.sliment ofthe
bank, the building of the North Branch Canal, the foundry,
the publication of wide-awake newspapers, and lastly the
railroads, each gave impetus to the growth of the town in
its earlier history. In later years men of enterprise have
furthered the interest of the town and given it new life.
Foremost among those to whom especial credit is due, M.
C, Mercur has been the philanthropist and most zealous
worker. The first few years of Towanda's hi.story is only a record
of her struggles. There was no chance for improvement
and it would be great injustice to the worthy fathers to regard
them as inert. In those days but a small portion of the
county was owned by those living in it. Lumber, peltry
and niaple sugar were about the only articles of export and
for which money could be had. Almost as soon as a dollar
was earned the settler paid it on his land, leaving the mer
chant till some future time. Withthe latter, the solution
of the problem of " getting along" was a difficult matter.
He could buy on short credit, but must generally sell "on
tick," as it was called, or not at all. Many bought a single
stock of goods, then closed their stores, or had them closed

ni
by their creditors. Those that had " a little ready money" and
trafficked in lumber finally succeeded. Another great draw
back was the poor facilities for transportation. Goods were at
first brought up the Susquehanna in Durham boats, then
hauled in wagons from Philadelphia and later from Newburg on
the Hudson. Now is it surprising to know that Towanda
did not improve much during the first twenty-five years ?
In 1825 the only streets opened were Main, State, Pine,
Lombard and a portion of Second. None of these were
graded, and even Main street was very uneaven and hilly.
At this time the greater part of the prospective town was
yet woqded, no particular effort being made in public im
provements until after the incorporation of the borough in
1828. In 1836 marked improvements were made in grad
ing and in opening new streets through the persistent efforts
of M. C. Mercur and William Elwell, Street Commission
ers. Farmers were getting out of debt. They had stock
and produce to sell, and could consequently buy larger bills
bf goods and pay cash. This made the merchants and
manufacturers prosperous, who co.uld now afford to con
tribute to public improvements. The bridge was now
built, communication opened with the eastern part ofthe
CQunty, the canal begun and Towanda entered upon an era
of prosperity. The population gradually increased, business
multiplied and improvements continued. The railroad gave
a new life, and the town finally outgrew the boroug'n
limits and was enlarged. Originally the borough extended
from the river to Fifth street, and from about two rods south
of Elizabeth street to the ravine on " Hemlock Row." The

172
gas supply, the water works and other valuable improve
ments have been made, from-time to time, and will be more
fully mentioned in another part of this volume.
From the various assessments we produce the following
synopsis: The merchants of Towanda in 1812 were Wm.
Means and Harry Spalding; in 1820 three were doing
busi'ness, Gurdon Hewett, having been added to the list ;
in 1825 the number of merchants and grocers was six ; in
1 83 1 eleven; in .1838 nineteen; in 1850 twenty-one; in
i860 twenty ; in 1870 forty-nine.
The principal merchants that have done business in To
wanda since i860, but now out, have been : Thomas Elliott,
general; H. S. Mercur, general ; M. C. Mercur, general; J.
D. Montanye, general ; Burton Kingsbury, general ; Joseph
Kingsbury, general, including books 'and stationery; E.- D.
Montanye, general; E. T. Fox, general ; Hiram Mix, gen
eral ; H. C. Porter, drugs ; Nathaniel N. Betts, general ;
Sidney Bailey, afterwards Bailey & Nevins, groceries; O.
D. Bartlett; general ; Hugh O'Hara, boot and shoes ; Geo.
Bunting, ready-made clothing; Tracy & Moore, general ;
Stephen Hathaway, boots and shoes ; John Wilcox, boots
and shoes ; E. W. Baircl. general ; Job Kirby, boots and
shoes; M. E. Solomon, clothing; John Beidelman, genera};
Taylor & Co., dry goods ; Patch Bros., groceries ; Collins &
Powell, ready-made clothing ; A. M. Warner, jeweler ; Isaac
Post, hardware, &c.; Wm. A. Rockwell, general ; J. D.
Humphrey, boots and shoes ; Col. J. F. Means, general ;
Wickham & Black, general ; Ford & Ward, dry goods ;
George Ridgeway, grocer ; Patton & Payne, drugs ; Bram-

173
hall & Cowell, groceries; E. S. Benedict, clothing; Hall
& Russell, afterwards Codding & Russell, hardware ; A. M.
Coe, boots and shoes ; Capt. James M. Gillson, jeweler ;
Chas. Reed, drugs ; Lord & Co., hardware ; Joseph Hines,
furniture; L. L. Moody, boots and shoes; Kent & Bliss,
drygoods. Those prominent in other business have been — John Car
man, foundryman and dealer in hardware ; James Mackin-
ion, manufacturer of furniture, dealer, and undertaking ;
Russell Pratt, coopering ; Mark C. Arnout, tanner ; Andrew
and Philip Seebich, wagon-makers and blacksmiths ; Henry.
and Adam Essenwine, blacksmithing and carriage ironing;
Elkanah Smith, harness-making and saddlery ; Miles Carter,
confectionery. THE towanda bridge.
By an act ofthe Legislature, March 24, 183 1, the Governor
was authorized to incorporate a company for erecting a
bridge over the, Susquehanna at Towanda. An appropria
tion was made, and the balance of the money necessary to
complete the bridge was raised by individual subscriptions
as stock. '
John Bottom; a practical bridge builder, contracted for the
job and performed the work on the same in 1832, the struc
ture consisting of three spans.
A new appropriation was made by the State, and in 1837
-38 the original bridge was taken down, the piers raised,
the bridge extended on the east side one span, and a tow
ing-path added. Bottom & Scott were the contractors.
October 24, 1849, the east span of the bridge was burned

174
and immediately rebuilt. Again, in 1854, the same span*
was destroyed by fire.
The river having cut around the east end of the bridge it
was again raised seven feet in 1854-55, M. C. Mercur and
Thomas Elliott being the contractors.
Toll was taken until Sept. 16, 1879; since which time the
bridge has been free. The county wishing to purchase the
bridge, viewers were appointed, who, in their report, which
was confirmed by the Court, estimated the property worth
^20,000. The price was not satisfactory to the stockhold
ers, and litigation over the matter-is still pending. The spans
of the bridge average 225 feet each, making the length 900
feet, the roof projecting 10 feet farther.
the canal and railroads.
During the construction of the North Branch Canal, from
1837 to 1840, Towanda increased very rapidly, and a large
number were added to the business circle. Towanda be
came a good market and the farmer's products had a ready
sale at home. The town and surrounding country were
growing prosperous, until the crisis of "40-41."
The North Branch Canal was located and contracts for
the construction thereof allotted in 1836. That portion lying
in Bradford county was surveyed in the summer of 1836, and
operations soon after commenced. Work was suspended
from 1842 to 1849 for want of appropriations from the State,
when it was resumed and the canal finished in 1.854.
* " On Thursday afternoon last {Sept. 7, 1854,) the east span of the bridge across the river
at this place was destroyed by fire. This is the second time that this part of the bridge has
been hxirnei."— Bradford Reporter.

175
The object of the canal was to develop the North Branch
region. Unfortunately, the canal proved to be a very im
perfect and uncertain affair, and a continual expense to the
State. Public sentiment finally underwent a complete
change, and those who were once most eager for its con
struction became the v/armest advocates for its sale. In
1858 a company of capitalists, consisting of Mercur, Welles,
HoUenback and others, of Bradford and Luzerne counties,
was formed and effected a purchase of that part ofthe canal
from Wilkes-Barre to the State line. The company found
many obstacles to overcome, which finally led to the con
sideration ofthe expediency of a railroad.
The Pennsylvania and New York Canal and Railroad
Company was organized as the successor of the canal com
pany, with the privilege of constructing a railroad upon
or near the towing-path or berme side of the canal. The
railroad was surveyed in the summer of 1866, and the first
train entered the village of Towanda, Nov. 26, 1867. The
road was opened from Wilkes-Barre to Waverly, Sept.
20, 1869. At the latter point it connected with the Erie
railway ; at the former with the Lehigh Valley railroad, and
being in fact but an extension of it.
The road has opened up the eastern and central portions
of the county, affording communications by rail with both
New York and Philadelphia, and the coal and iron regions
of the central, parts of the State
In 1857 the Barclay railroad was opened from the Bar
clay mines to the canal basin at Towanda. On the comple
tion of the Pa. & N. Y. R. R. a junction was formed at To-

•176
wanda, so that the coal is transferred from the mines, with
out reshipment, to any part ofthe country.
In Sullivan county valuable beds of soft anthracite coal
had been discovered, and in 1865 a company was organized
for the purpose of constructing a railroad to them. The
distance is twenty-eight miles, and the road was opened in
1 87 1. The cars run on the Barclay railroad track from To
wanda to Monroeton, where the Sullivan & State Line rail-.
road begins.
The North Branch canal, which passed through so many
vicissitudes, and for a period of more than forty years at
tracted so much attention from the people of this county,
was by law, passed in 1872, allowed to be abandoned by the
company, and since ^hat time every trace of its existence is
being removed as rapidly as possible.
In conclusion, it is only fair to state that, while the canal
was expensive, it was a good thing for the people in many
respects, and we indeed doubt whether the railroad is more
to their advantage in anything else than a means of travel
and quick transit. THE churches.
The First Presbyterian Church of Towanda was an off
shoot from the church of Wysox. In 1821 that church was
blessed with a marked revival, and thirty-eight were added
to its communion. A number of these were living on the
west side of the river. In accordance with a request of the
\church that it might be divided, the presbytery appointed a
committee which met the applicants for the new church at
the Court House in Towanda, Oct. 25, 1825, and were con-

177
stituted into a separate organization by Rev. Ebenezer
Kingsbury and the Rev. Salmon King. The following were
present and entered into covenant : Rufus Foster, John
Fox, John B. Hinman, Abraham Foster, Samuel Cranmer,
Clark E. Conley, Ephraim Ladd, Lydia Scott, Hannah
Taylor, Mary Fox, Sally Foster, Eley Ridgway, Deantha
Gilson, Selina Powell, Weltha Hale, Lois Ladd.
Rufus Foster, John B. Hinman, John Fox and Ephraim
Ladd were chosen Ruling Elders ; Rufus Foster, Deacon ;
and J. B. Hinman, Clerk.
In 1829 the number of members had increased to 27. The
church struggled again.st great opposition until the winter
of 1 83 1, when Rev. John Dorrance, then preaching at
Wysox, assisted by Rev. Nicholas Murry of Wilkes-Barre,
afterwards so widely known as " Kirwin," commenced a
series of meetings in the Court House, and the following
summer 34 were added to the church. Up to 1833 the
church had had no regular pastor. In September of that
year the church gave a unanimous call to Rev. Oscar Har
ris to become their pastor at a salary of ;^400 per annum,
which he accepted, — was ordained and installed pastor of
the church on the 30th of October following. In 1834 there
was not a church edifice in Towanda. This church, how
ever, determined to build one. A site was settled on Pine
street, between Main and Second, and during the Fall of
1835 the church was completed and opened for worship.
August 7, 1837, Mr. Harris resigned his pastorate, and was
succeeded by Rev. Julius Foster, in December, who was
ordained and installed pastor Feb. 4, 1838. Dec. 31, 1837,
(Z)

178
twenty persons were received into the communi on of the
church. The old church becoming unsafe, the present
building was erected and finished in the Spring of 1855 —
the first public service ever held in it was the funeral ser
vice of Deacon John Fox. Mr. Foster* continued 'a pastor
ofthe church until his death, Jan. 16, 1865, a period of
twenty-seven years. He was succeeded in the pastorate by
Rev. Wm. Harris, who had supplied the church during the
latter part of Mr. Foster's illness. The 'next winter (begin
ning in January) occurred a great revival. The services of
Rev. E P. Hammond had been secured by the Young
Men's Christian Association and 73 names were added to
the church roll during the year. Under Mr. Harris's pastor
ate, the building was enlarged and the church was quickened
in all of its activities. He resigned in January 1870, and in
'March of that year Rev. John S. Stewart, D. D., was in
stalled pastor. The church has enjoyed a steady growth
under his pastorate, however, being greatly revived in 1876
and 1885. June 3rd, 1886, 106 members, were received into
membership of the church, the . whole number now being
380. Dr. Stewart is a gentleman of rare literary attain
ments, of poetic genius, and a sound and logical theologian.
Previous to 1825 it was necessary for all who wished to
worship God statedly to repair to Wysox. After the erec
tion of the Court House, services were frequently held there ;
* "Rev. Julius Foster was a faithful and able.preacher, greatly beloved by his church and
respected by all who knew him. He was a staunch defender of the truth, a prudent coun-
83lor, and bore an unblemished reputation. Over hills, along rough roads, through etorms
and heats, he rode far and near, to answer some special call for his services or to attend some
meeting of the church courts."

1711
also at Elder Fox's ; in the school house ; in the " fire
proof;" at the house of Jonathan Fowler, J. B. Hinman
and others. Prior to the time embraced in the foregoing
Rev. Mr. Corss says : " Church meetings were often held in
barns, although there seems to havebe;jn some sort of house
of worship' before this in Wysox. Sometimes thepeople
of Wysox met those of TOwand.a at a half-way place — Mr.
Means's barn on the east side of the river. The word of
the Lord was precious in those days, and the good people
were ready to submit to many inconveniences to enjoy the
privileges of the gospel."
The Methodist Episcopal Church of Towanda was incor
porated by an act of the State Legislature, passed the i6th
day of April, A. D. 1838, by the name, style and title of
'¦ the Trustees cf the Methodist Episcopal Church of To
wanda," The first Board of Trustees named in the act of
incorporation was composed of the following members :
William Watkins, E. R, Utter, Nelson P. Brown, Silas No
ble, William Elwell, John E. Geiger, James P. Bull, Burton
Kingsbury, George H. Bull.
The church building was erected under the pastorate of
Rev. Philo E. Brown, in 1837. Prior to that time, the few
members ofthe society worshipped in private dwellings, in
the Court House or schoolrhouse The East Genesee Con
ference held its session here in 1861, at which Bishop Baker
presided. In 1869 the church edifice was rebuilt and en
larged, frescoed, carpeted, furnished with a good organ, and
dedicated by Bishop Peck, March 16, 1870.
Towanda was not early a rendezvous for the Methodists.

180
" Father Cole's," at Monroeton, was the great centre of
Methodism for miles around, and was the preaching place
many years. The circuit-riders, or itinerants, as they were
called, in making their four weeks' trips would preach at
" Father Cole's," then pass on to Ulster, or Burlington, till
" Father Mills's "house was established as a half-way place.
Here in his log house, on the hills above Sugar Creek, con-
grega'ted the widely scattered inhabitants of the neighbor
hood to listen to the preaching of the Sacred Word. A
little class was formed, with " Father Mills " as class-leader,
which was the nucleus of Methodism in Towanda. Among
the first itinerants who preached here are remembered —
John Griffin, Hiram G. Warner, Rev. Birge, James Hall,
Asa Orcutt, Sophronius Stocking, James Gillmore, John
Wilson, Philetus Parkest, Mr. Kendall, Mr. Hosmer, Mr.
Davis, Mr. Judd, Rev. Lull, Palmer Roberts, Rev. Phil
more, Joseph Towner, and' George Evans. Evans is said
to have been an able man, and preached a considerable at
the Court House.
Appended is a complete list of the pastors, with date of
appointment of each, since 1837: Philo E. Brown, 1837;
Clark E. Smith, 1839; A. Abbott, 1841 ; " Father Mans
field," 1842; Israel H. Kellogg, 1843; John W. Nevins,
1844; Edward Hotchkiss, 1846; D. S. Chase, 1847; John
N. Brown, 1849; Theo. McElheny, 1852; Isaiah McMahon,
1853; B. F. Rawlins, 1855; Andrew Sutherland, 1856;
Nelson A. Depew, 1858 ; S. Nichols, i860 ; Nathan Fellows,
1861; Elijah Wood, 1863; John T. Brownell, 1866; Chas.
S. Fox, 1869; Chas. W. Bennett, 1870; O. L. Gibson, 1871;

mi
M. C. Dean, 1874 ; Geo. W. Chandler, 1875 ; Geo. C. Jones,
1878; Chas. H. Wright, 1880; C. T. Moss, 1882; L. F.
Congdon, 1885; Frankhn Ball, 1886.
The church has had a steady growth, and greatly strength
ened by an occasional revival, the membership at this time
numbering 370.
Christ Church. — Rev. Samuel T. Lord, in addition to his
labors at Athens, held occasional services during the
Autumn of 1833 in Towanda, and in December began to
officiate here regularly. Among the laymen who were
active in introducing the services of the church in Towanda
were M. C. Mercur, O. D. Bartlett, Henry S. Mercur, and
Mark Miller. A little class was formed and .services held
for a short time in the Court House, then for a few years in
the "fire-proof" where they also held their Sabbath School,
M. C. Mercur, O. D. Bartlett and Miss Mary Woodruff being
the teachers. Mrs. Geo Wansey, Mrs. Chas. Toucey, Mrs.
Noah Spalding and Mrs. Geo. Watson, formed a part of the
original class, and Antes Snyder, Wm. B. Foster, Jr., and
Abraham Goodwin were prominent members of the church
in its early days.
In 1840, Rev. Robt, G. Hays, in charge of the parish, re
ported to the convention that the amount necessary for the
completion of a church had been raised. Dec. 20, 1841,,
the Court granted a charter under the name of " Christ's
Church," to Wm. B. Foster, Jr., O. D. Bartlett, Abraham
Goodwin, John N. Weston, C. L. Ward, M. C. Mercur,
David Wilmot, and their successors. The year 1842 was
one of almost unparalleled financial difficulties, but notwith-

182
standing the church was completed in this year and an
organ purchased. In this year Rev. Geo. Watson became
rector, and in 1844 the church was admitted into union with
the convention. The church was built by contract, and the
ground for the same was donated by Hiram Mix. In 1849
it was altered and enlarged and a bell purch'ased. During
i853-'54 funds were raised by the congregation and a rec
tory built. The first three months of the year 1 866, wit
nessed a deep religious interest in the community, and on
April I Ith Mr. Douglass presented fifty-five candidates to
the acting Bishop of the diocese for confirmation. The
following are the rectors of the church, since 1844, with
the date of identification with the church :
Asa S. Colton, Jan. 1845; Robert J. Parvin, Sept. 1847;
Benj. J. Douglass, June, 1850; Francis D. Hoskins, Aug.
1866; WiUiam McGlathery, Jan. 1870; Chas. E. Mcllvaine,
Nov. 1873 — died at the rectory Feb. 22, 1876; When the
church was served by Wm. Atwefl of Elmira, J. McAlpine
Harding of Athens, and lay reading, until Sept. 1876, John
S. Beers became rector, and was succeeded by Rev. E. A.
Enos, who severed his connection in the Autumn of 1885.
The number of communicants at this time is about 175.
Roman Catholic. — " The first Catholic service held in this
county was at Asylum, during the existence of the French
colony there. M. Carles, the priest, was accustomed to
celebrate mass regularly, and attend to the other duties and
services prescribed by the church. With the dissolution
of the colony, both the priest and his parish took their de
parture, and the French mission was ended, after having

183
continued about five years, — from 1794 to 1799 or 1800.
" The next movement towards church growth occurred at
a period when there was a ^arge immigration to this county
from Ireland. In 1821 the settlement of Irish people hold
ing the Catholic religion was begun at Silver Lake, in Sus
quehanna county. At the solicitation of Mr. Patrick Griffin,
the earliest settler there, the Bishop was induced to send
Rev. Father O'Flynn on a mission into the northern part of
Pennsylvania and southern New York, who should look
after any scattered families he might find in all that vast
region, and administer to them the sacraments of the church.
The missionary was suddenly called from his earthly labors,
while in the discharge ofhis duties at Danville in 1829, and
was taken to Silver Lake for burial. Rev. Henry Fitzsim-
mons was appointed to this mission in 1836; and in May
1837, he started on horseback to visit the far-off outposts of
his field. In his route he visited Troy, Canton, Ridgebury,
Athens, and Towanda, celebrating mass and administering
the sacraments to the faithful. This self-denying zealous
missionary had the satisfaction of seeing the fruits of his
labor in the formation of a church at each of these places.'''
The mission was divided and Rev. John O'Reilly was as
signed that portion which included Bradford county soon
after. When work was begun upon the North Branch Canal,
contractors sent agents to Ireland, who, representing the ad
vantages afforded the poor people in America, induced
thousands to emigrate to this country. Many of these peo
ple found work on the sections of the canal lying in this

184
county, and began to locate in considerable numbers along
the line.
Father O'Reilly gathered the followers of his church at
Towanda and held services in various places until 1841,
when he and his congregation erected a plain wooden church
edifice on the site ofthe present church in Towanda village
He greatly endeared himself to the members of the parish
by his kind and encouraging suggestions, being ever ready
to grant any favor in his power. When work upon the canal
suspended, he advised his parishioners, who had been thrown
out of employment, to move back into the townships where
the land was cheap, purchase farms and become permanent
citizens. In accordance with this advice, little settlements
of Irish people were formed in various parts of the county
and have become quite as prosperous as any abo'ut them.
Father O'Reilly* was relieved from his duties here by his
own request, and was succeeded by Rev. Basil A. Shorb.
Father Shorb was followed by Rev. Mr. Ahearn, and he by
Father Doherty, who was succeeded by the Franciscan fath
ers. After them Rev. Patrick Toner had charge of the field.
During his administration, in 1869, the old wooden church
was taken down and the present elegant brick Gothic struc
ture erected on Third street, The church with sacristy is
125 feet long and 50 feet wide, and has a tower with spire
* "Father O'Reilly was as fearless as he was kind. -While making one ofhis visits down
the line of the canal, he was told that some of the laborers on a certain division had been in
dulging in drink too freely, and that the person who kept the grog had just procured another
barrel, and it waa feared that serious consequences would follow. The faithful priest hasten-
ed to -the scene, and, after administering a severe rebuke to the riotous laborers, seized an axe,
broke in tho head of the barrel and allowed the contents to flow out on the ground."

185
190 feet high. It is the handsomest church edifice in To
wanda, ai^d was finished under the excellent management
of Father Kelly and dedicated as "Saints Peter & Paul,"
Dec. 14 ; 1879. Its total cost was about $30,000, all of which
has been paid. In connection with the church is a cemetery
in North Towanda, which was consecrated May 24, 1883 ;
and also a school taught by the " Sisters of Mercy," for a
history of which see " Schools."
Rev. Charles F. Kelly, an accorhplished gentleman of
broad intelligence and education, succeeded Rev. Mr. Toner
as pastor, Feb 11, 1876. He is an able and eloquent priest, ,
and is greatly esteemed by his pari.shioners and citizens gen
erally. He has had an assistant since his ministration in
Towanda. The number of Catholics in the parish number about
4,000. Towanda Baptist Church. — In April, 1841, Rev. G. M.
Spratt commenced labor in Towalida, in connection with
the Monroe Baptist Church. There were but two Baptists
in or within four miles of Towanda at the time. His labors
after a few months were largely prospered and measures
were taken by Isaac Carey and Rev. Spratt to build a house
of worship, assisted by James Elliott, then living in Ulster,
seven miles away, and Deacon Wm. Lewis, living in Frank
lin, an equal distance from Towanda. In February, 1843,
twelve persons from Ulster were united with the little band
at Towanda — James Elliott and wife being among the, num
ber. The two churches, Monroe and Towanda, were known
(AA)

ISO.
as pne, the Towanda being a branch and holding its own
covenant or church meetings; receiving and dismissing
members and exercising discipline ; but co-operating with
the Monroe part in the support ofthe pa.stor and in all im
portant question.s affecting the whole. The new member
ship, being poor, could give but little towards building their
brick meeting-hcuse except their earnest prayers and kind
words. The building required great self-denial and hard
labor; especially was this true of Pastor Spratt, who gave
liberally of his own means and labored in its construction,
costing sacrifice of health, compelling him for several
months to suspend all public labors, and confining him for a
long time to his bed. The earliest record of the church's
occupying its new house of worship was March 1st, 1845.
In 1845 Rev.G. M. Spratt, D. D., who has been deserv
edly prominent in the Baptist ranks as Corresponding Sec
retary of the Pennsylvania Baptist Education Society, re
signed his pastorate and Jesse B. Saxton became pastor of
the Monroe and Towanda church, October 4th, 1845.
On the 14th of October, 1846, a council, formed by rep
resentatives from the neighboring Baptist Churches, convened
at Towanda and recognized thirty members, dismissed for
the purpose from the Monroe and Towanda church, as a
regular and independent Baptist Church.
October 31st, 1846, James Elliott and Edwin Hurlburt
were elected Deacons of the new church. Rev. Jesse B.
Saxton resigned the pastorate April ist, 1847, when Rev.,
G. W. Stone was called to the pastorate, serving about a
year and six months. In 1849 Rev. W. H. King, then not

, 187
ordained, from Waverly, N. Y., supplied the pulpit for three
months. The Monroe church united with the Towanda
church in calling and supporting the pastors. In April,
1850, Rev. Jacob Kennedy became pastor for^ one year.
The church was without a pastor from April, 185 1, till
.April, 1854, at which time Rev. J. R. Morris became pastor
for the space of one year. In June, 1856, Rev. William
Sym, D. D., an Englishman, became pastor, serving till the
Fall of 1858 The church was now without a pastor till
July, 1859, when Rev. Increase Child became its pastor, and
served until Oct. 1861. The church at this time numbered
49 members Rev. S. G, Keim became pastor April ist,
1863, and served one year. October 1st, 1865, Rev. Robert
Dunlap became pastor, remaining till Sept. 1868. From
this time till April, 1869, Sunday morning services were
sustained, and sermons were read by two of the members
alternately. Rev. S. J. Lusk became pastor in. April, 1869, and served
in that capacity till Dec. 1874. In 1874 the street in front
of the meeting-house having been filled in and the grade
having been raised eight feet or more, the church was com
pelled to adapt its house of worship to the circumstances.
Therefore the roof was raised, a floor put in for a new audi
ence room, a vestibule and tower built in front; adapting
the house much better for the demands of the church.
These alterations or additions and improvements were fin
ished, at an expense of some ,^4,000, in October, , 1875, and
was re-dedicated Nov. nth of the same year. In November,
1875, the trustees of the disbanded Monroeton church hav-

188
ing sold their house of worship paid ;^900 to the Towanda
Baptist Church to assist in paying for their repairs. In
April, 1876, Rev. T. A.Edwards became pastor, and served
a year or so. Sometime in this year, 1877, all church meet
ings were discontinued till in May, 1879, when under the
labors of Rev. G. P. Watrous, who was serving as missionary
for the Bradford Baptist Association, a few of the scattered
members of the church were gathered and church prayer-
meetings re-established with occasional preaching services
till in April, [880. The church was re-organized under
the labors of Rev. J. R. Downer, of Philadelphia, who re-
remained but a few weeks During that Summer and Fall
the pulpit was supplied most ofthe time by different minis
ters and laymen.
Nov. 1st, 1880, Rev. Charles T. Hallowell became pastor
ofthe little church, at this time reduced to thirty members.
Their number more than doubled during his pastorate,
which closed Oct. ist, 1884. Dec. 17, 1883, James Elliott,
,who had served the church as its deacon for over thirty-
seven years of its checkered existence, died, aged over 95
years. Deacon Elliott was a faithful christian ; lived a con
sistent life, and had the love of his brethren and the respect
of his fellow men. He was at his post of duty in the
church and Sunday School until a few weeks before his
death. The church was without preaching services for most of
the time till Nov. ist. 1885, though all other meetings were
sustained as well as the Sunday School. Rev. G. H. Trapp

•189
entered upon the pastorate Nov. ist, 1885, and is the
incumbent. The Universalists. — Prior to 1866 the Universalists had no
regular church organization at Towanda. However, they
had regular preaching for several years. Among their first
ministers may be mentioned Rev. G. S. Ames, Rev. Mr. An
drews, Rev. S. J. Gibson, Rev. Wm. M. Delong. In 1866,
C. S. RusselV; Allen McKean, G. F. Mason, Dr. E. H.
Mason and W. H. Shaw obtained a charter of incorporation
of an organization to be styled the " First Universalist So
ciety of Towanda." The society was kept up, but little pro
gress was made until the erection of the neat and attractive
church edifice on Second street in 1876-77. 'The building
is a brick structure, 46x62 feet, with a tower and basement.
It was dedicated in March, 1877, ^^ the " Church of the
Messiah." The erection of the temple of worship was large
ly due to the efforts of Rev. G. J. Porter, who was succeeded
in 1879 by Dr. Wm. Taylor, and he in turn by Dr. H. R.
Nye, the present pastor, in 1883. Dr. Nye is a gentleman
of fine literary attainments, a thorough student and an able
and logical minister.
The church is in a most flourishing condition, and num
bers lOi members. It has a growing Sabbath school, which
is well conducted. Twenty-five thousand dollars have been
paid by the church during the past ten years, ,$12,000 of
which were for the church edifice.
African M. E. Church. — The first colored minister to To
wanda was Thoma^ Jackson (Bethel), of Montrose, who
began coming thereto about 1851-52, every four weeks, an/i

190
preached at private places. He organized a small cla.ss, of
which John Carter was the first class leader. Mr. Jackson
was succeeded by Elder Braine (white) of the Wesleyan
Methodist faith and conference, who re-organized the class
in conformity with his teachings. He preached irregularly
for about a year. Timothy Coggins (colored) followed Elder
Braine, and preached occasionally for two years. During
his administration in 1853-54, the church edifice was erect
ed and dedicated as a Wesleyan Methodist. White clergy
men supplied the church with preaching until about 1862-
63, when Solomon Cooper (colored) was licensed to preach
by the Rochester conference and given especial charge of
the Towanda church. He remained with the church several
years and was subsequently ordained an elder. In 1868-69
Elder Cooper left the Wesleyan conference, taking his
charge with him into that fold, but did not continue to preach
to this church long afterwards. He was succeeded by J.
Broaden, who preached about a year, then for a time the
church was left without a shepherd. William Smith was
finally secured as pastor, apd in 1 87 1 the church joined the
Zion conference at Philadelphia, and since that time has
been regularly supplied by that body with pastors, the church
now being styled the " African M. E. Zion Church of To
wanda." Singleton Thompson followed Mr. Smith, who
was succeeded by Mr. Biddle, and he by Zacharias Tyler.
Then came Elder Macaw, Mr. Washington, Mr. Warfield,
Dr. Goodman, and Mr. Tyler, returned, the present pastor.
The church edifice is a wooden building, 30x40 feet, with
basement, and stands on State street between Second and

191
Third. It was built at a cost of ^2,200. The building was
begun at the suggestion of John Carter, who was one ofthe
first and most liberal subscribers. Others of the original
subscribers were John John,son, David Jones, George Stew
art and Timothy Coggins. There is a Sabbath school con
nected with the church, taught by white teachers.
A Society of Plymouth Brethren was organized at Towanda
in 1879 by M. A. Shaw, Mrs. Irene Kellum, A. C. Wheat,
G. H. Wood, Andrew Wood, Lemuel Royse, Miss Judith
LeQuin, Mrs. A. C. Wheat and Mrs. Lemuel Royse. The
society meets three times a week, twice on Sunday, and
numbers 35 members. schools.
The First Scliool in this locality, of which we have any
record, was taught by Miss Weltha Tracy, afterwards Mrs,
Reuben Hale, before 1803, in a small building* on the bank
of the river north of the lime kiln.
Eliphalet Mason taught a school of four months in the
winter of 1 803-4, in " Wm. Means's district," and again
taught in the same district during the Spring and early. part
of the Summer of 1807.
Daniel Scott, afterwards Judge Scott, before the year 1807,
taught in a building opposite the present residence of H.
L. Scott. A man by the name of Osborn subsequently
taught the same school, and also a lady teacher is remem
bered, who had lost one eye " This school accommodated
the people from Alger's to Meansville." Among those that
attended the first schools at Scott's Mrs. John Cranmer, of
Greenwood, is yet living.

192
At an early date schools were occasionally kept in the
Foster neighborhood, and frequently attended by the chil
dren from the village. During the existence of these primi
tive schools the pupils received instruction, as was called in
those days, only in the three R's, Reading, Riting and
'Rithmetic. Goose-quills were used for pens, and making and mending
them was a part of the teacher's work. Ink was made from
the bark bf a soft maple tree, sometimes with a little cop
peras or sugar added, the latter to give it a gloss.
Problems were not unfrequently worked out upon shin
gles ; and the teachers or pupils ruled the paper used for
copy books. The funds for paying the teacher were raised
by a rate-bill, and he was not unfrequently required to
take a part of his pay in grain, or other products, which he
could turn into money.
Mrs. Gregory's School. — As early as i8ll* Mrs. E. B.
* " The hills immediately back of Towanda, and indeed a large portioQ of where the town
now stands, was then covered with trees and bushes. Directly back of where Mrs.
Wm. Mix now lives, huckleberries grew in abundance, and during the season of berries the
girls often spent their noon-time in going out and feasting on thom. One day during
the Suramer of 1812, a company of school-girls went out, as was their custom, to have a nice
ramble through the woods and get some berries, when suddenly a young bear appeared in
their midst. The girls ran in every direction screaming at the top of their voices, a bear !
a bear! helpl help! One of the girls swooned and fell upon the ground, while each of the
others ran for her life and the school. Austin Fowler, Aaron Brown, and Frederick-
Fisher were at work building the house for Harry Spalding, where Mrs. Wm, Mix now re
sides, and heard the screams of the girls and hastened to see what the commotion was, when
they met the girla running at deer speed to escape from the hear. They soon found the girl
who fainted, restored and cared for her, , and then proceeded to find the cause of their fright,
When they beheld Bruin perched upon the first limb of a large tree apparently eojoying the
flight of the frightened girls. The bear waa soon secured, and it proved to be one of a pair
of young cubs Mr. Withey, a blacksmith living near Oliver Newetl'p, -had kept in a pen for
eome time and was trying to tame."

193
Gregory 'opened a boarding school in her ovv'n house, for
young ladies and girls. Mrs. Hannah Tracy, who v/as one
of her pupils, says : " We did our studying on the second
floor, which to reach, we had to mount a ladder, .Mrs.
Gregory was very strict, but an accomplished lady and ex
cellent teacher. She gave instruction only in the rudimen
tary branches." Mrs. Gregory afterwards taught in the log
house which was subsequently occupied by Jesse Woodruff
as a tailor's shop. Mrs, Nathaniel N. Betts, .and Mrs. Tracy
(Hannah Ridgway), who attended Mrs, G.'s school are yet
living. Other pupils were Eliza and Nancy Hale, Zilpha
and Roxy Mason, and Vesta, Augusta and Marinda York.
The school was continued for two or three years. Dr.
Goodrich taught the next school after Mrs.-Gregory's, at
Scott's, and the boys and girls of the village attended.
Sometimes a school was kept down on the " Fox-Chase"
flats, which like the others, accommodated the entire neigh
borhood. The first regular school in Towanda was held in
a wooden building, not far from the river bank, a little north
of the Court House. The building was surmoynted by a
small belfry, which contained the old Moravian bell. After
the erection of the " fire-proof," in 1825, several terms of
school were taught here, and Wm. F. Dininger, D. F.
Barstow and a Mr, Dudley are remembered as teachers.
Schools were also taught in the attic of the Court House,
and in fact, wherever a spare room could be had in the
village There was no system or regularity in school mat
ters for many years, and education was not advanced until
the establishment of the academy. Many of those who
(BB)

194
taught, or rather kept school, were poorly qualified. Of the
early teachers, who were fitted for this important work and
succeeded well, may be mentioned — Rev. Wm. J. Richard
son, D. F. Barstow, the celebrated James (commonly " Jim")
Crooks, Hannah Ridgway, Rowena Scott, Mrs. Dr. White
head, Geo. A. Mix.
The Towanda Academy. — Having tired of the irregulari
ties and non-progressiveness in education, the enterprising
citizens ofthe village circulated a petition and obtained funds
sufficient for the erection of a two-story brick building,
which was to be styled the Towanda Academy. It was to
be supplied with skillful teachers and the higher branches
introduced. The building* was erected in 1835, andthe
school opened in 1836 with flattering prospects. It was
conducted by a principal, who furnished his own assistants,
and received a certain fixed rate per scholar. The boys and
girls began climbing "Science Hill," indeed, and not a few
men and women of Towanda are proud of their old teach
ers and the thorough instruction which they received in the
old Academy Foremost among those worthy pedagogues
were O. H. Piatt, U. S. Senator of Conn. ; Henry M. Hoyt,
ex-Governor of Penn'a ; Prof. F. W. Gunn, deceased, an emi
nent educator and founder of " The Gunnery," an education
al institution of celebrity in Conn. ; Prof Geo. R. Barker, a
distinguished teacher ; Miss Blackman, the historian of Sus
quehanna county; Professors Nash, Worthing, Lyman,
Scott, Burrhans, Vandercook, and other stars of lesser mag-
* The trustees were James P. Bull, Hiram Mix, Enos tTompkins, David Cash, J. D. Mon
tanye, Isaac Myer, Burton Kingsbury, Wm. B. Storm, Geo. A. Mix.

19.5
nitude. The Academy became somewhat famous locally,
and was continued until after the erection of the old public
school building and the incorporation of the Susquehanna
Collegiate Institute, The building is still standing on the
corner of Fourth and State streets, and is occupied as a resi
dence by Gen. H. J. Madill.
Public Schools. — A public school building (wooden) of two
stories was erected in 1851-52 on the corner of Pine and
Second streets (where the old building yet stands), and oc
cupied for school purposes until 1873, when the increase of
popuktion and enterprise of the citizen.s demanded a more
spacious edifice of modern design and architecture.
Prof H. E. Pitcher, the veteran teacher of Bradford coun
ty, was the la.st " to sway the birchen rule " in the old build
ing. The present magnificent brick school-house on State street
was completed in 1873, and occupied in the fall ofthe same
year with Prof G. W. Ryan, principal. The building was
designed by J. E. Fleming, architect, and is 63x65 feet, three
stories, with basement. The architectural effect is very
pleasing, and the structure is surmounted with a cupola for
the bell. The school again having outgrown the seating
capacity, it became necessary to erect an additional build
ing' in 1883, 28x32 feet, of two stories with basement. For
the accommodation of the northern part of the town, this
building was located in the Third ward, and is a very neat
structure of brick. The main building consists of nine de
partments and the High School, which is under the direct
supervision of the principal, who has an assistant. The num-

190
ber of pupils is 515. The Third ward school has two teach
ers and 105 pupils The principals since G. W. Ryan have
been E. T. Burgan and A. D. Albert (incumbent).
The Towanda public school.s arc models and second to
none in the " Northern Tier" ; and the citizens may well feel
proud of her educational in.^titutions.
Young Ladies' School— \i\ about 1851, Mi.ss Anna Ross
(subsequently married Rev. Mr. Latimer) and Anna Jewett
(afterwards Mrs, M, C, Mercur) opened a school for young
ladies, and were succeeded in 1854 by the Misses Hanson,
who establi-shed the " Towanda Female Seminary." tThey
were ladies of refinement, and in their school gave especial
attention to the accomplishments. They were able teachers
and continued the school for four or five years. The house
now occupied by Chas. H, Allen, on Second street, was used
as their " seminary" building.
The Sisters of Mercy. — Through the efforts of Rev. C. F.
Kelly, who, believing that the church can better be ad
vanced by training the youth in its catechism and teaching
morality, for the benefit of his denomination and the good
of poor children, purchased the C. L, Ward mansion and in
September, 1877, opened a school under the direction ofthe
Sisters of Mercy. The school is in a very prosperous con
dition and numbers about 300 pupils. It is free to all, and
is supported by the congregation. The usual number of
Sisters is ten, who, besides their duties in the school, visit
the sick and poor.
The Susquehanna Collegiate Institute* — This school owes
* "We are indebted to Craft's History and Prof. E. E. Quinlan for this historical sketch.

197
its origin to the action of the Presbytery of Susquehanna,
which through its committee on general Christian education,
Rev. S. F. Colt, Rev. F. D. Drake, Hiram Stevens and J.
D. Humphrey, petitioned the Court of Common Pleas of
Bradford County, Sept. i, 1849, ^'^ incorporate a Christian
literary institution. The charter was granted May 13, 1850,
The design of its founders is .set forth in A rticle 3 of its char
ter. It reads as follows: -* * * "to afford thorough
instruction in the various branches ol learning, useful and
ornamental, English and classical, and in the religion of our
Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ ; and to prepare suitable ^
teachers for parochial and common schools.''
In 1852, by request ofthe trustees the name was changed
to the Susquehanna Collegiate Institute. In the same year
the location was determined, and ten acres of land purchased
in the borough of Towanda for its use Forthwith money
was raised, and July 4, 1853, the corner stone was laid.
The building was completed in 1854. Itis a handsome
four-story brick, and stands on high ground, front which a
magnificent view of the borough and surrounding country
can be had.
Sept. 6, 1854, the school was opened with the following-
able faculty : Rev. Sam'l F. Colt, A. M., Principal ; Rev. James
McWilliams, A. M., Chas. R. Coburn, Miss Margaret Ken
nedy, Preceptress, and Miss Fanny Biles. Mr. Colt remain
ed principal three years. Mr. Coburn was elected Superin
tendent of Common Schools of Bradford county, afterward'
of the Common Schools ofthe State. Mr. McWilliams suc
ceeded Mr. Colt as principal, but accepting a pastoral call,

198
Rev. David Craft, A. B,, completed the year as principal and
acted in the same capacity in the following year. Messrs.
O. H. & W. H. Dean, graduates of Lafayette College, were
then elected principals and so remained for three years.
John D. Hewett, A. B., acted as principal the following year,
at the end of which period Mr. Colt was elected to his sec
ond term and remained until the fall of '70, when George
W. Ryan and Edwin E. Quinlan were engaged for a period
of ten years. At the* end of three years Mr. Ryan became
principal of the public schools of Towanda, and five years
later Superintendent of the common schools of the county.
Mr. Quinlan remained principal, and is still at the head of
the school, this being his sixteenth year.
In 1879 the school celebrated its quarter- century of ex
istence. From the historical sketch read by Hon. E. L.
Hillis, A. M., at these exercises, we learn that the number
of students at that date had been 1829; of these about 1200
had engaged in teaching, 33 in the practice of medicine, 27
in law, and 10 in the ministry. The average attendance per
term had been had been 1 10, and the whole number of in
structors 72. From 1879 to 1885, 796 different students
were in attendance, making the total number up to the com
mencement ofthe school year 1885-86, 2625. The average
attendance per term from 1879 to 1885 was 124, making the
average attendance from the beginning~not far from 117.
The average, attendance per year from 1879 to 1885 has
been 238. The number of students from the beginning who
have taught is not less than 1600. The largest attendance
any one year was 1882-83, the enrollment being 263, and

199
the largest attendance any one term in the fall of '82, when
190 students were in attendance.
The instruction is given in three departments — Elemen-
tory English, Common English, and Academic. The last
department contains four courses of study. College Pre
paratory, Academic, Latin Scientific, and Mathematical and
Business. No student is permitted to graduate in these
courses who has not passed the common English courses,
to complete the final examination, in which requires tvfo and
one-half days' writing, besides the oral examinations. The
consequence is that a student who has completed the com
mon English course never has any difficulty in passing ex
amination to teach these branches, or to enter college.
Students prepare for college every year from the Preparatory
and other courses, the highest number any one year being-
nine, and the furthest advanced an^ student has entered
college being the junior year. During the last sixteen years
no one has been known to fail on his or her entrance col
lege examinations.
Much attention is given to commercial branches, and the -
classes in book-keeping are usually large. The Institute
building is heated with steam, is well supplied with chemical
and philosophical apparatus, with maps, charts, globes,.
anatomical models, skeleton, and a very fine refracting tel
escope. An observatory, a new physical laboratory, and a
room for library, are exf>ected to be added soon.
The faculty the present year are : Edwin E. Quinlan, A.
M., Principal; Chas. W. Sheldon, A. M.; .Harvey M. Buck-

200
]ey,-?h. B.; James P'. Hoffman, Jr., A. B.; William Cramer,
Nancy Corss, Mabel Black, and Mile J. LeQuin.
Eighty-seven different teachers have been employed sincj
the school opened. The venerable Rev. S. F, Colt, the finst
Principal, and one of the most active of its founders, Mr.
A. Wickham, and Rev. C, C. Corss life-long friends of the
school, so far as wc can recall, are the only ones left ofthe
fathers of the school. Its sturdy and active sons are to be
found" in every honorable vocation, and in almost every
State and Territor) in the Union. How wide-spread and
how potent its influence eternity only can tell. We quote
in conclusion from the Rev. David Craft, himself a former
teacher ofthe school, and well acquainted with its work and
influence: "Its foster sons may be found in the halls of
Congress, in the State Legislature, on the bench, in the
Christian ministry, and in all the professions and vocations
of life. The great work it has done in elevating the stand
ard of education in the public schools of the county, through
the common school teachers it has sent out and the influ
ence of its own instructors, never has nor never will be
fully appreciated. Probably no other agency in the county
during the last quarter-century has done so much to ad
vance the standard of education, directly and indirectly, in
the common schools ofthe county. It was largely through
the teachers of the Institute that the Bradford County
Teachers' Association, which has been an instrument of
good in the county for more than a quarter of a century,
¦was organized. Thorough instruction has been furnished
from the first in the English, classical], and mathematical

201
branches, book-keeping and natural science. The Institute
having a chemical 'laboratory, apparatus for a course in
philosophy, .charts, maps, globes, &c., is well prepared to
teach the sciences, and while many pursue these branches,
yet it has been best known as a classical institution. A large
p>-;rcentage of its students have always studied Latin. A
large number of young men have been prepared for college,
and entered with credit. Many joung men, whose time or
nieans did not allow them to enter college as a means of
general culture, or as a preparation for the study of a pro
fession, have pursued a classical course here with great ad
vantage In addition to higher English, college preparatory,
and normal courses, the Institute has a thorough and liberal
course of studies in ancient and modern languages, mathe
matics, history and natural science, on the completion of
which by its pupils they are graduated and receive a diplo
ma. The Institute, by its charter, is empowered to confer
degrees, but has never attempted to maintain a regular col
lege course. The religious influence of the school has
always been excellent, a large number of its students having
become converts while attending upon their studies, some
of whom are in the Christian ministry. The school is
under the care of the Presbytery of Lackawanna. The
school, however, is non-sectarian, the action of the presby
tery being lirnited to a general supervision of the school
and election of it's trustees."
The English Nuns' School. — In September, 1861, six Eng
lish nuns opened a school at Towanda. They were induced
here by the Duchess of Leeds, an American lady, wJio gave
(CC)

202
them a property in Towanda which she had obtained of C.
L. Ward. The school opened with bright prospects under
the direction of Mother Mary Xavier, and consisted of two
departments, " the academy " and " the parish school." The
academy was particularly designed for young ladies, and
attention was given to music, French, drawing, etc. Young
men, however, were not rejected, a few attending. The
parish school was especially intended for pupils wishing to
take the common English branches only. The first year
the former school had about lOO students and the latter
nearly 75. All denominations were admitted and the school
supported by tuition. The nuns erected the building since
known as the " Convent," and held their school there and
in conjunction with a private residence (the Bull mansion)
standing near. They boarded a' few of the pupils. After
the first year the original six nuns went to Philadelphia to
open another school, when they were followed by six other
English nuns who continued the school one year longer,
then gave it up as it was not a sufficiently paying institu
tion. While the school had but a short existence, it was liber
ally patronized by the towns-people and was a success
in every re.spect except pecuniarily. The convent building,
which stood between State and Lombard streets near their
western termini, on property formerly of the late Col. J. P.
Bull, was torn down in the winter of 1885-86. The Bull
mansion is yet standing, and is occupied by the Dunn family.
The history of the banks, fire department, newspapers, so-

203
cieties, the bar, and other matters, will be found in the sec
ond part of this work.
THE TOWANDAS IN THE REBELLION.
Bradford county furnished some of the best and bravest
soldiers of the war. Among those that did their whole
duty, with honor to themselves and credit to their friends
by an honest and conscientious discharge of duty at the
front, may be found many from the borough and township
of Towanda. Of the Towanda boys comparatively few
tired of the service, wearied in well doing, fell out by the
wayside and returned to their homes to remain during the
tontinuance of the struggle. There are many conspicuous
examples of those that had been stricken down by disease
and wounds, that after having regained their health and
strength at home under the kind and loving care of their
friends, again returned to their commands, at the front, to
give their lives to their country in her hour of need and
trial. While their loss is mourned by those that were dear
to them, their grief is solaced by the knowledge of the fact
that they died in a holy cause, nobly and bravely doing
their duty. Surely the deeds and sacrifices of these brave
men can never be forgotten hy their friends and country
men. They are rapidly passing away, many of them into
early graves, by reason of impaired health and shattered
constitutions, brought upon them by the exposure and
hardships to which they were subjected. Brave men and
true, let us revere their meiiiory and with grateful hearts
remember-how great a work under God's blessing they did

204
for Us. And where they " calmly lie and sweetly sleep low
in the ground," may their rest be as peaceful as their lives
were tempestuous and eventful upon their country's battle
fields.
SIXTH RESERVES.
THIRTY- FIFTH REGIMENT, P, V.
The organization of this regiment was effected June 22d,
1 86 1, by the selection of the following field officers : W.Wal
lace Ricketts, Colonel ; William M. Penrose, Lieutenant-
Colonel ; Henry J. Madill, Major; Henry B. McKean, Ad
jutant. The regiment was mustered out of service June 14,
1864. Companies I and F were recruited in Bradford
county. Company I.
Adams, Henry L., sergeant; enlisted April 22, '61 ; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate, P'eb. 26, '63.
^Albro, Stephen G., private ; enlisted July 27, '61 ; trans
ferred from 2d U. S. Artillery; mustered out April 22, 1864.
Barstow, D. Henry, private ; enlisted Aug 21, '62 ; pro
moted to assistant surgeon 173d regiment P. V., May 14,
1863. Brown, Oscar H., private ; enlisted April 22, '61 ; died at
Tenallytown, D. C, Sept. i, 1861.
Bull, William K, private; enlisted Oct. 8, '61; died at
Brooks's Station, Va., Dec. 3, '62.
Burbank, Henry A., principal rhusician; enlisted April i,
'62 ; discharged on surgeon's certificate, Oct. 27, '62.
t Names marked thus (f) not positive as to the township from which enlisted.

205
Burbank, foseph T., private ; enlisted May 15, '61 ; mus
tered out with company, June 11, '64.
Chase, Cyrenus F., sergeant; enlisted April 22, '61 ; mus
tered out with company, June 11, 1864.
Chamberlain, foseph G., private; enlisted April 22, '61 ;
discharged Aug. 26, '63, to accept clerkship in the Treasury
Department, Washington, D. C.
Coverdale, Wesley, private ; enlisted April 22, '61 ; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate, Aug. 26, '61.
Davis, Zebidon, private; enlisted April 22, '61 ; mustered
out with company, June 11, '64.
Easterbrooks, Andrew f., musician ; enlisted May 15, '61 ;
discharged for wounds received at Bull Run, with loss of
arm, Aug. 30, '62.
Ely, Daniel, private ; enli.sted April 22, '61 ; transferred
to veteran reserve corps ; mustered out with company, June
II, '64.
Fausey, fames S., private; enlisted Oct. 25, '61; left com
pany, Nov. I2r'6i.
Fell, foseph C, private; enlisted April 22, '61; discharged
on surgeon's certificate, Feb. 22, '62.
Goodenough, Orrin D., musician regimental band ; enlist
ed August," '61 ; mustered out July 31, '62.
Gore, William H. H., Captain ; enlisted April 22, '61 ;
promoted from Captain Co. I to Major, Sept. i, '63 — to bre
vet Lieutenanant-.Colonel, March 13, '65 ; mustered out
with regiment.
Guyer, fohn M., Captain; enlisted April 22, '61 ; pro
moted from First Lieutenant to Captain, Feb. 8, 1864; killed
at Spottsylvania C. H., Va., May 12, 1864.

206
^Grist, Norman, corporal; enlisted April 22, '6i ; trans
ferred to 191st regiment P. V., May 31, '64 — veteran.
fohnson, fames, ¦^r'wate ; enlisted Feb. 5, '64; transferred
to 191st regiment P. V., May 31, '64.
Kennedy William, private; enlisted May 15, '61; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate, Feb. 7, '62.
Kramer, fohn, private; enlisted May 15, '61; transferred
to 191st regiment P. V., May 31, '64— veteran.
Lynch, Charles, private ; enlisted May 15, '61 ; discharged
on surgeon's certificite, April 18, '64.
Lynch„ Daniel, '^r'wate ; enlisted April 22-, '61 ; transferred
from ISt U. S. Cavalry; mustered out April 22, '64.
Madill, Henry f.,* Major; enlisted June 22, '61; pro
moted to Colonel of 141st regiment P. V., Aug. 30, '62.
Mehan, Michael, private ; enlisted April 22, '61 ; died at
Langley, Va., Dec. 23, '61.
McHue, Peter, corporal; enlisted April 22, '61 ;, wounded
at Fredericksburg, Va., Dec. 13, '62; died at Richmond,
Va., June 19, 63.
McKean, Henry B., Lieutenant-Colonel ; enlisted April
* At the battle of Bull Run, Aug, 30, '62, Major Madill was the hero of a most daring and
gallant act. Observing one of the color-bearers of the Sixth in line of battle with his flag un
furled, after a rebuke ordered him ** to get the coloi-s up where he could ger eome bullet-
holes through them," then himself seizing the flag, threw it across his shoulder and rode
d.jwn the entire line cheering the boys, and christened the flag as he had commanded. Upon
his return, as he rode to a little eminence, a minie ball cut the flag-staff ofi at his shoulder •
but he caught the Stars and Stripes before they went down. At this juncture General Bey-
nolda rode up and requested the flag. Taking his knife he cut the remaining portion of the
slaff utf, tied the flag arouud his body, as if it were a sash, and With the colors flapping about
him he dashed down the Hue. The sight was inspiring, and pausing for an instant in the
midst of the battle, the men gave a tremendous cheer for their commander. For full record
of General Madill see biographical notices.

207
22, '6i ; promoted from Adjutant to Lieut-Col., April I,
'62 ; discharged on Surgeon's certificate, Nov. 25, '62.
McMahan, Matthew, private; enlisted Oct. 18, '61; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate Dec. 21, '63.
Noble, Cherrick f, private; enlisted May 15, '61 ; trans
ferred to 191st regiment, P. V., May 31, '64 — veteran.
O'Boyle, fames, private; enlisted April 22, '61 ; trans
ferred to 191st regiment, P. V., May 31, '64 — veteran.
Phinney, fohn H., First Sergeant; enlisted April 22, '61 ;
mustered out with company.
f Piersall, Enberry, private ; enlisted July 29, '61 ; trans
ferred to Co. D., 83rd regiment, P. V., June 10, '64.
Prentice, S'. Willard, musician; enlisted Aug. '61; mus
tered out July 31, '62.
\ Roberts, Samuel, private; enlisted Oct. 20, '61; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate Oct. 29," '62.
Scott, Thomas; -px'wate ; enlisted April 22, '61, mustered
out with company.
Sharp, Matthias B., private; enlisted Oct. 16, '61 ; cap
tured at Bull Run, Aug. 28, '62 — exchanged — deserted —
date unknown.
Sluyter, P. C, private ; enlisted April 22, '61 ; discharged
on surgeon's certificate May 11, '63.
Tripp, Dennis, private; .enlisted May 15, '61; discharged
May II, '63, for wounds received at Antietam, Md., Sept.
17, '62.
Company F.
Barnes, Thomas, private; enlisted July 14, '61; died at

208
Libby Prison of wounds received at Fredericksburg Dec
13, '62.
Briggs, William S., First Lieutenant ; enlisted April 23,
'61 ; promoted from Second to First Lieutenant Aug. 27,
'63— Brevet-Captain March 13, '65 ; prisoner from May 8th
to May 26, '64 ; mustered out with company.
Finlan, Roger, private; enlisted Oct. 16, '61 ; discharged
on surgeon's certificate July 31, '62.
FIFTH RESERVES.
THIRTY-FOURTH REGIMENT, P. V.
1
This regiment was organized June 20th, 1861, by the
choice of the following field officers : John I. Gregg,t Col
onel ; Joseph W. Fisher, Lieutenant-Colonel ; George Dare,
Major. The reginient was mustered out of service June II,
1864. Company F was recruited in Bradford county, of
which the following were members :
Alloway, facob, private ; enlisted June 21, '61 ; mustered
out with company.
Angle, EU D,, private; enlisted Aug. 15, '61 ; died at
Warrenton, Va , Nov. 10, '62.
Bogart, Newell, died before muster.
Britton, fohn, First Sergeant; enlisted June 21, '61 ; pro
moted to First Sergeant March i,'64; mustered out with
company. Brown, Newell P., Corporal ; enlisted Sept. 26, '61 ; taken
f On the following day Col. Gregg was appointed a Captain in the 6th U. S. Cavalry, when
he resigned his commission in the regiment, aud Seneca G. Simmons was chosen to succeed
him.

209
prisoner at the battle of White Oak Swamp June 30, '62 ;
returned to company Aug. 6, '62.
Burwell, fackson, private; enlisted June 21, '61 ; deserted
May 10, '62.
Clark, Daniel S.,px'ivate; enlisted June 21, '61 ; wounded
, in the battle of Mechanicsville, Va., June 26, '62 ; transferred
from Veteran Reserve Corps; mustered out with company.
Conley, William, private; enlisted June 21, '61; died of
fever in hospital at Washington, D. C, March 8, '63.
Diltz, Daniel L., private ; enlisted Aug. 26, '61 ; wounded
at battle of Fredericksburg Dec. 13, '62 ; mustered out Aug.
¦ 17, '64 — expiration of term.
Dodge, Dwight H., Sergeant; enlisted June 21, '61 ; mus
tered out with company.
Granger, Alexander, private; enli-sted June 21, '61;
wounded at the battle of Bull Run Aug. 30, '62; trans
ferred to 191st regiment, P. V., June 6, '64 — veteran.
Harris, f. Wallace, px'ivate ; enlisted June 21, '61; pro
moted to Commissary Sergeant, Jan. i, '64; supposed to
have been killed by the Guerrillas Dec. '64 on Warren's
raid— Weldon R. R.
Haywood, Theron, private; enlisted June 21, '61 ; died, at
Washington, D. C, June 2, '63, of wounds received at
Fredericksburg Dec. 13, '62.
Herda, Augustus, private; enlisted Aug. 15, '61 ; wounded
and taken prisoner at battle of White Oak Swamp June 30,
'62 ; discharged Jan. i, 1864.
Keeler, Edgar ^private; enlisted Aug. 26, '61; mustered
out Aug. 17, '64 — expiration of term.
* * (DD)

210
Laplant, Peter f., private; enlisted June 21, '61 ; mustered
out with company.
' Mason, Addison G., Adjutant; enlisted June 21, '61 ;
promoted from First Lieutenant; discharged March 27, '63.
to accept appointment on Gen. Meade's staff; Brevet-Major,
August I, '64 — Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel March 13, '65.
Mason, Julius, enlisted but not mustered, being appointed
to a Lieutenancy in the cavalry service ofthe regular army.
McGill, Martin W., private ; enlisted June 21, '61 ; wound
ed at Fredericksburg, Va., Dec. 13, '62 ; transferred to 191st
regiment, P. V., June 6, '64 — veteran.
McGovern, Jeremiah, private; enlisted June 21, '61 ;
transferred to 191st regiment, P. V., June 6, '64 — veteran.
Means, f. f-Fi/Zza?^, .Second Lieutenant; enlisted June 21,
'61 ; promoted to Lieutenant U. S. Army, Feb. '62.
'Miller, fohn, private; enlisted June 21, '61; mustered
out with company.
O'Halleran Lawrence, private ; enlisted June 21, '61;
mustered out with company.
Record, Almon, private; enlisted June 21, '61 ;. mustered
out with company.
Robinson, fohn, private ; enlisted June 21, '61 ; discharged
on surgeon's certificate, Aug. 27, '62.
Rollinson, Alonzo, private; enlisted July 21, '6f ; trans
ferred to 191st regiment P. V., June 8, -'64 — veteran.
Scott, Edward L., principal musician; enlisted June 21,
'61 ; mustered out with regiment.
Sullivan, Daniel, private ; enlisted June 21, '61 ; mustered
out with company.

211
Sturrock, Robert H.,Capta\n; enlisted June 21, '6i ; pro
moted to Captain, Feb. 16, '62 ; killed at Gaines's Mills,
June 27, '62.
Thorp, Ebenezer D., private ; enlisted Aug, 15, '61 ; wound
ed at Fredericksburg, Dec. 13, '62; transferred to 191st
regiment P. V., June 6, '64 — veteran.
Trout, Andrew f.. Captain ; enlisted June 21, '61 ; resign
ed January, '62.
Vincent, William S, private ; enlisted June 21, '61 ; wound
ed at White Oak Swamp, June 30, '62 ; absent (sick) at
muster out.
Ward, William F., private; enlisted June 21, '61 ; trans
ferred to Signal Corps, Aug. 27, '61.
Wilson, William H. H, private ; enlisted Sept. 26, '61 ;
died at Alexandria, Va., Oct. 23, '62 — grave 1,843.
ONE HUNDRED FORTY-FIRST P. V.
The 141st was known as the Bradford regiment and was
organized Aug. 29, 1862, with the following field officers:
Henry J. Madill, Colonel ; Guy H. Watkins*, Lieutenant-
* **Guy H. Watkins was a gallant and noble specimen of a soldier." He was most earnest
in arousing his countrymen to their duty in the hour of their country's peril, and in one of his
speeches said ; "Tbat at the most a man could die but once, and he would prefer to die on the
battle-field than to think he had shrunk from danger in the hour ofhis country's need." When
in his speeches he asked his fellow-citizens to go with him, he said, "lwill stay with you to the
end," and most nobly did he fulfill his promise. He was taken sick and returned to his home,
but only remained long enough to regain his healtli. At the battle of Chancelloraville he
was shot through the lungs and fell into the bands of the enemy. The rebels were " going
through him," when it was discovered that from a badge which he wore under the lapel of
his vest, that he was a Mason. His properly was restored andhecaredforbyLongstreet's corps
surgeon until he was paroled. He was again sent home, but before his wounds were fairly
healed went back to join his regiment. He was offered a paymaster's commission upon his
return, but refused it, declaring that he had made a sacred pledge which he meant to fulfill.

212
Colonel ; Israel P. Spalding, Major. The regiment was mus
tered out of service. May 28, 1865.
Company B.
Angle George W., private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; died
May 16, '63 ; buried in Brigade burying ground near Poto
mac Creek, Va.
Bennett, Loren, px'ivate; enlisted Aug. .22, "'62 ; died July
9 of wounds received at Gettysburg, Pa., July 2, '63 ; buried
in National Cemetery, Section A, grave 66.
Britton, Edward, private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; trans
ferred to 57th regiment, P. V.
Califf, fohn N, corporal ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; pro
moted from private, discharged on surgeon's certificate,
Dec. 8, '62.
Cash, Charles D , private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; pro
moted to Quartermaster Sergeant Aug. 29, '62.
Carey, Frank B., private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; miss
ing, probably killed at Chancellorsyille, Va., May 3, '63.
Clark, Dennis F., private; enlisted Aug. 22, '65; dis
charged Aug. 10, '64, for wounds reiceived at Gettysburg,
July 2, '63.
Clark, William H., private; enlisted Aug. 22, '62; killed
at Gettysburg July 2, '^3.
Coon, Huston, private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; mustered
out with company. '
On the 18th of June, 1864, while gallantly leading his men before Petersburg, at the "Hare
House " he received a fatal wound through the bowels and died an hour afterwards. In con
clusion, in the words of another — "He was a true, consistent friend, an affectionate husband, '
a kind parent, a dutiful son, a devoted brother, but high over all, the bravest and noblest of
patriots."

213
Coverdale, William H., private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ;
mustered out with company.
Davies, William T., Captain; enlisted Aug. 29, '62; pro
moted from 1st Lieutenant Sept. i, '62 ; discharged on sur
geon's certificate May 23, '63.
Granger, Geo. H., Corporal ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; pro
moted to Corporal Dec. 5, 63 ; wounded at Chancellorsville
May 2, '63 ; transferred- to Veteran Reserve Corps March
15, '64; discharged by G. O. June 29, 65.
Greening, Matthew, Corporal ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ;
wounded at Gettysburg, .Pa., July 2, '63, and at Wilderness,
Va., May 6, 64; promoted to Corporal May 12, '64; trans
ferred to Co. B., 24th regiment V. R. Corps ; discharged by
General Order, June 26, '65.
Kingsbury, fohn H., private; enlisted Aug. 22, '62; dis
charged onsurgeon's certificate Dec. 4, '62.
Lewis, Stephen S., private; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; mus
tered out with company.
M'Intyre, James, private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate Dec, '62.
O'Halleran Lawrence, private ; enrolled Aug. 27. '64, sub
stitute ; mustered out with company (see Co. F, 5th Re
serves. Ott, George, private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; captured at
Chancelorsville ; mustered out with company.
Parsons, Eli M., private ; enlisted Atig. 22, '62 ; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate Jan. 11, '63.
Peck, Benjamin M., Captain ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; pro
moted from 1st Sergeant to 2nd Lieutenant Aug. 29, '62, to

214
Captain May 23, '63, transferred to Division Staff; wounded
at Chancellorsville, Va., May 3, '63 ; mustered out with
company. Rutty, Ezra, px'wate; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; mustered out
with company.
Savercool, James, private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; miss
ing, probably killed at Chancellorsville, Va., May 3, '63.
Soper, Orrin A., Corporal ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; pro
moted July I, '64; wounded at Wilderness, Va., May 6, '64;
mustered out with company.
Wilson, Jesse A., private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate Dec. 22, '62.
Company C.
Eastabrooks, Avery, Sergeant ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; pro
moted to Corporal, Jan. 26. '64, to Sergeant, Aug. i, '64 ;
killed at Boydton Road, Va., Oct. 27, '64.
Mosier, Simeon, private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; transfer
red to 57th regiment P. V.
Patterson, Francis E., private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; cap
tured at. Spottsylvania C. H., May 12, '64; died at Rich
mond, Va., May 26, '63.
Company D.
Bennett, Amos, private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; discharged
on surgeon's certificate, Jan. 27, '63.
Bullock Darius, private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; wounded
at Morris Farni ; discharged on surgeon's certificate, April
20, '64.
Harris, Llewellyn, private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; wound-

21-5
ed at Gettysburg, July 2, '63 ; discharged by G. O , May 15,
'65. McNeal, John, pr'wate ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62; discharged
Mar. 5, '63.
Ryan, Thomas, Captain ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; promoted
from Fir.st Lieutenant, Dec. 23, '63 ; wounded at Wilder
ness ; discharged by Special Order, Aug. 6, '64.
Walbom, Solomon, private; enlisted Aug. 22, '63 ; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate, Jan. 5, '63.
Company I.
Alby, Alfred, Corporal; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; promoted
to Corporal, Jan. i, '64; mustered out with companjf.
Corma, Nelson, private ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; absent on
detached service at muster out.
Mercur, Charles, First Lieutenant ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ;
promoted from Second Lieutenant, Dec. 10, '62 ; transferred
to Company K, June 5, '63; commissioned Major, Feb. 28,
'65, not mustered — brevet Major, April 9, '65,; wounded at
Gettysburg, July 2, '(>i ; mustered out with company.
Shores, Cory ell, px'wate ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; discharged
on surgeon's certificate, Feb. 14, '63.
Spalding, Edwin A., Captain ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; pro
moted from First Lieutenant, Dec. 10, '62 ; wounded at
Chancellorsville, Va., May 3, '63, ^nd at Wilderness, May
5, '64; discharged Dec. 16, '64.
FIFTIETH REGIMENT, P, V.
This regiment was organized Sept. 25, 1861, by the choice
of the following field officers : Benjamin C. Christ, Colonel ;

216
Thomas S. Brenholtz, Lieutenant-Colonel ; Edward Over
ton, Jr., Major. The regiment was mustered out of service,
July 31, ''65.
Company G.
\ Bassett, Chauncey V., Sergeant ; enlisted Sept. '61 ; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate.
Bowman, George L., Sergeant (Co. K.) ; enlisted Aug.
10, '61 ; promoted to Sergeant, died at Cairo, 111., Aug. 19,
'63 ; buried at Mound City, III.
Carey, William F., Corporal ; enlisted Sept. '61 ; trans
ferred to 6th regiment U. S. Cavalry.
Cross, Charles F., 2nd Lieutenant; enlisted Aug. 8, '61;
promoted to ist Lieutenant U. S. Signal Corps, March 3, '63.
Farrar, George C, private ; enlisted March 8, '64 ; mus
tered out with company.
Gillson, James L., Musician; enlisted Sept. '61 ; deserted
Oct. I, '61.
Higgins, Merwin, Sergeant; enlisted Sept. '61 ; promoted
from private ; captured ; died Dec. 10, 64 — veteran.
Lewis, James, Corporal ; enlisted Sept. '61 ; discharged on
surgeon's certificate.
Lewis, Theodore, Corporal ; enlisted Sept. '61 ; promoted
to Corporal ; taken prisoner at Spottyslvania C. H., May 12,
64 — confined at Andersonville ; mustered out with com
pany—veteran. Lyons, John M., private; enlisted Sept. '61; discharged
on surgeon's certificate.
M'Mahon, Michael, i st Lieutenant ; enlisted Sept. '6 1 ;
died at Hilton Head, S. C, Nov. 20, '61.

217
Overton, Edward, Jr., Lieutenant-Colonel; enlisted Sept.
30, '61; promoted from Major, Dec. 15, '63; seriously
Wounded in knee at Antietam ; mustered out Sept. 30, '64 — '
expiration of term.
Pease, David, private; enlisted Sept. '61 ; discharged on
surgeon's certificate.
Powell, Ethan B., 1st Sergeant ; enlisted Sept. '61 ; dis
charged on surgeon's certificate.
Scott, Henry, Sergeant ; enlisted Sept. '61 ; promoted from
musician to Sergeant ; mustered out with company-
veteran. Telford, William H., Captain ; enlisted Aug. 8, '61 , pro
moted to Lieutenant-Colonel, Feb. 8, '65. .
Vincent, William, private ; enlisted Sept. '61 ; not on mus
ter-out roll. FIFTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT, P V.
This regiment was organized in the Autumn of 1861 by
the choice of the following officers : William Maxwell,
Colonel; Elhanan W. Woods, Lieutenant- Colonel ; Jere
miah Culp, Major. The regiment was mustered out of
service June 22, '65,
Adams, Henry M, Second Lieutenant Co. I ; enlisted
Sept., '62 ; promoted to Second Lieutenant, May 22, '64 ;
killed at Petersburg, Va., July 17, '64.
Benedict, Edward S., Second Lieutenant Co. I ; date of
enlistment unknown ; resigned Aug. 23, '62.
Chamberlain, Joseph G., private, Co. H; enlisted Aug. 25,
'62 , discharged by General Order, June x, '65. (See Co. I,
6th Reserves.) (EEi)

218
Conley, John A., Co. H.
* Cranmer, Perry.
Darling, James M., Captain Co. H ; enlisted Sept. 15, '6i ;
promoted from First Lieutenant Co. G to Captain, June 24,
'63 ; transferred to Co. A ; discharged June 29, '64.
Edstabrook, Ward, private Co. A; enlisted Dec. 31, '63 ;
mustered out with company — veteran.
Heman, Lyman, private Co. A; enlisted Feb. 16, '64;
discharged on surgeon's certificate, Dec. 13, '64.
Johnson, Richard, private' Co. D; enhsted Mar. 18, '64;
absent (sick) at muster out.
Kramer, John, private Co. H ; enlisted Aug. 22, '62 ; ab
sent (sick) at mu.ster out.
Meehan, Daniel, ist Lieutenant Co. GJ; enlisted Sept. 4,
'61 ; promot,ed to Captain Co. H, May 30, '62 — resigned
Dec. 31, '62.
Peck, Geo. S., Captain Co. G ; enlisted Sept. 4, '61 ; re
signed Sept. 22, '62.
FORTY-FIRST U. S. COLORED REGIMENT.
Carter, Wilson^ private (substitute) Co. D ; enrolled Oct.
13, '64; discharged Oct. 18, '65 — expiration of term.
Clark, James, Corporal (substitute) Co. D ; enrolled Oct.
14, 64; promoted to Corporal Oct. i, '65 ; discharged Oct.
18, '65 — expiration of term.
* At the battle of Fair Oaks, May 31, '62, Mr. Cranmer was fatally wounded. As the rebels
advanced, he not being able to walk, his companions picked him up and were bearing him off
the field, when he discovered th^at all would be captured if they pereisted in the attempt
to SEtve him. He begged his companions to lay him down and flee for their own lives. Alone
he prepared to meet his fate. Tour rebels rushed upon him. He drew his revolver and shot
three of them, and having no more cartridges was at the mercy of the foui th rebel, wlio
thrust his bayonet through the brave man's breast.

219
Cooper, Solomon, private (substitute) Co. D ; enrolled Oct.
13, '64; discharged Oct. 18, '65 — expiration of term.
Forrest, Columbus D., Sergeant (substitute) Co. D ; en
rolled Oct. 14, '64; promoted from Corporal Oct. i, '65;
discharged Oct. 18, 65 — expiration of term.
' Middleton, Andrew, private (substitute) Co. D ; enrolled
Oct. 15, '64; discharged Oct. 18, 65 — expiration of term.
Payne, Ralph, Corporal Co. I ; enlisted Sept. 22, '64.
Strange, Matthew, Corporal (substitute) Co. D ; enrolled
Oct. 14, '64; promoted to Corporal Oct. i, '65; discharged
Oct. 18, '65 — expiration of term.
VARIOUS REGIMENTS.
Barnes, Burton, Co. B, i88th N. Y. V.; died at City
Point, Dec. 18, '64.
Bennett, John M., private Co. C i88th N. Y. V.; en
listed Sept. 13, '64; discharged July 10, '65.
t Bennett, Charles, private 80th P. V. — unassigned ; en
listed March 29, '64; discharged Sept. 13, to date Aug.
25, 1865.
Coon, Johnson, Co. C i88th N. Y. V.
Corwin, Frederick F., private Co. H 80th P. V. — 7th Cav
alry; enrolled Feb. 24, '64; prisoner from Oct. i, '64, to
April 21, '65 ; discharged Aug. ii, to date Aug. 2, '65.
Cranmer, Edwin, private Co. B, 80th P. V.; enlisted
Sept. 21, '61 ; wounded at Stone River, Jan. i, '63; trans
ferred to V. R. C, April 1863.
Foster, James H, Captain Co. I, 210 P. V.; enlisted Sept.
10, '64 ; promoted from 2nd Lieutenant Jan. 21, '65 ; mus
tered out with company, May 30, '65.

220
Gillespie, James, private Co. B., 41st P. V. — 12th Reserves ;
enlisted Feb. 7, '62; transferred to 190th regiment P. V.,
May 31, '64 — veteran.
, Granger, Burton, private Co. K., 42nd P. V., (Bucktails) ;
enlisted May 29, '61 ; died Oct, 2, '62, of wounds received
in action.
Granger, Elijah — Regular Army.
Granger, Fred, private Co. C, 97th P. V ; enrolled March
I, '65; (substitute); mustered out with company, Aug. 28,
'65. ¦Gregg, John, private Co. B, 48th P. V.; drafted; enrolled
Dec. 13, '64; mustered out with company, July 17, '65.
Lalley, Philip, Co. C, i88th N. Y. V.
McVannon, Morton, private Battery H, Il2th P. V., 2d
Artillery; enlLsted Mar. 31, '64; transferred to 2d Pro. Ar
tillery, April 20, '64.
Mosier, Pratt, Co. A, 35th Penn'a Militia.
Newell, Orvel G., private Co. B, 87th P. V. (substitute) ;
enrolled July 22, '64; mustered out with company, June
29, '65.
Powell, Henry C, private Battery H, 112th P. V., 2d Ar
tillery; enlisted March 31, '64; discharged by General
Order, July 21, '65.
¦\ Scott, John, Co. H, 14th U. S. Infantry.
Scott, Michael, Co. C, i88th N. Y. V.
Sluyter, Alonzo, 185th N. Y. V.
Sluyter, Sylvester, private Co. K, 210th P. V.; enhsted
Sept. 27, '64 ; died at Jarvis Hospital, Baltimore, Md., Feb.
5> '65.^

221
Stephens, Mahlon C, private Co B, 207th P. V. ; enlisted
Sept. 5, '34; mustered out with company. May 31, '65.
Taylor, John B., px'wate Co. D, lOth U S. Infantry ; en
listed Feb. 10, '64; discharged Feb. 18, '6"] — expiration of
term. Walbom, Daniel, private Co. C, 97th P. V. ; drafted ; en
rolled Feb. 4, '64; mustered out with company, Aug. 28, '65.
Welch, WilUam, private Co. C, 191st P. V. ; enlisted June
21, '61 ; captured — died at Salisbury, N. C, the next day
after liberation.
Wiggins, Ezra, i88th N Y. V.
Charles Ackley ; jfames Ackley ; Hiram Bennett ; Thomas
Bailey; Bat Costello ; Hiram Cranmer; Norman Cranmer;
Charles Crowley ; \W. Dull ; Charles Foster ; f/. B. Gray ;
Frank Granger; Hiram Granger ; Philip Harvey ; "Bung"
Heman , Daniel Heman ; ^ Harden Hicks ; Abraham John
son ; John Lafley ; John Lynch ; Davis D. Maynard ; Emer
son Maynard ; Edward McGill {see Monroe); Win. Moore ;
Barton Mc Vannon ; Benton Mc Vannon ; Clinton Mc Vannon ,
Fred Rutty ; Edward Soper ; yokn Sherdan ; Charles Sluy
ter ;¦ jfohn Simons; \ WilUam Thompson; Adney Tracy;
Henry Vanderpool {kiWed) ; John Vanderpool; Samuel Van
derpool ; Wm. Vanderpool i^' Sickly William"); Wm. Van
derpool (" Limber Bill ") ; Wm. Vanderpool (" Billy High
Top"); Foster Vincent; Peter Walbom; \ Geo. Wright.
THIRTEENTH PENNSYLVANIA MILITIA.
Organized Sept. 12-17, '62 — discharged Sept. 25-26. Lieu
tenant-Colonel, John F. Means.

222
Company F. .
Captain, E. O'Meara Goodrich ; First Lieutenant, James
Macfarlane ; Second Lieutenant, Andrew J. Trout ; First
Sergeant, Wm. T. Bishop, Jr. ; Sergeants, Jarvis L.Tidd, Chas.
H. Allen ; Corporals, J. Valentine Geiger; John Whalen,
R. H. Patch, John M. Rahm ; privates, Harry H. Bowman,
Alvah E. Chamberlin, Benjamin F. Carrier, Francis G. Co-
burn, James Calligan, Charles Durand, Charles Dimock,
George Ennis, Nathan C Elsbree, Minor H. Hinman, C. W. .
Harding, Clarence H. Jones, Theodore Kramer, Geo. Kirby,
James Laughlin, Simeon K. London, Albert Maybee, Joseph
C. Mitchell, Henry Mercur, Wesley F. McCabe, D'A. Over
ton, Wm. M. Quigley, Chas. H. Rose, James Sweet, Sey
mour Smith, Timothy Sullivan, John M. Spencer, James W.
Taylor, Daniel Vandercook, C. L Ward, David W. Warner,
Cyrus Webb, James Ward, E. O. Gillespie.
THIRTY-FIFTH PENNSYLVANIA MILITIA.
Mustered in, July 2, '63 ; discharged Aug. 7, '63. Colonel,
Henry B. McKean. ,
Company A.
Captain, Allen McKean ; Second Lieutenant, Wm. T.
Bishop, Jr. ; ist Sergeant, Chas. H. Rose; Sergeants, Jesse
A. Wilson, Mahlon M. Spalding, Harry H. Bowman ; Cor
porals, R. H. Patch, Nathan Olmstead, Stephen B. Shores,
C. F. Dayton ; Musicians, Henry A. Burbank, Mahlon C.
Stephens ; privates, Oliver A. Badger, Henry A. Bartlett,
Charles Durant, Geo. H. Estell, Gurdon H. Eaton, Edward
Gillespie, James K. P. Gleeson, Wm. K. Hill, S. K. London,

22.3
Robert McCutcheon, Wm. F. McCabe, Wm. Pepper, Abram
Savercool, James Warford, D. W. Warner, Wm. H. Wat
kins, Geo. H. Woodruff, James Mclntyre, James Scoville.
HABITS AND CUSTOMS.
Money, the pioneers had none ; and they were required
to dress in the plainest and least expensive manner. Their
common habiliments were pantaloons and dresses, made from
flax for summer wear, and from wool for winter. " Buck
skin trousers " were in fashion, and were not unfrequently
worn by the men and boy-s. Roundabouts, or sailor's jack
ets, took the place of coats.
Calico was less common than silk is new, and cost sev
enty-five cents per yard. A lady who could afford a dress
made from seven yards of this material, wore " an extrava
gant garment" Shawls were made from pi essed woolen
cloth, and the finest home-made lineji was bleached and con
structed into fine shirts for men and boys. A lady's com
mon dress was " copperas and white," as it was called, and
'¦ copperas and blue, two-and-two," for nice. For children's
garments the mother had colors of her own peculiar device.
The women wore handkerchiefs as a covering for the head,
or bonnets of their own manufacture. It was not a strange
occurrence to see a young lady with her shoes and stock
ings in her hand, and a handkerchief about her head, while
on her way to " meeting " in the log school house, or at
some neighbor's cabin. Upon nearing the place of worship
she would sit down by the roadside and dress her feet. This
was also the custom " when going to town." Garments were

224
r.iade to wear the longest time possible, as it was very uncer
tain when the next could be had.
Tht; boys- had hats and caps made by their mothers from
woolen cloth or straw, and sometimes, perhaps, from rac
coon skins. Some wpxe knit caps, also, until " sealskin
caps," as they were called, came in fashion.
Garments were fastened together with thorns and with
buttons constructed out of thread, or made by wadding up
a little piece of cloth, sufficiently secured with thread.
Nearly every wife had her spinning-wheel and loom, and
manufactured her own cloth. Each did her own coloring
and the bark from a soft maple tree, hemlock, butternut, or
" witch-hazel " was used for dyeing purposes, also logwood
and smart-weed. Copperas, alum and sorrel were used to
set the colors.
During the summer season the boys, girls and women
generally went barefooted, as did some of the men.
In the winter shoes with leggins were worn. Frequent
ly it happened that some of the poorer families had no shoes,
in which case they would wind cloths around their feet to
keep them from freezing
But few ofthe men had a " dress-up " suit. This consist
ed of knee-breeches, ornamented with buckles, long stockings
made from cotton, wool or silk, and shoes with buckles.
A lady's "dress-up " generally consisted of a linsey-wool
sey suit, improved by pressing.
The food of the pioneers was coarse, and consisted of corn ,
and rye bread, sonietimes wheat, with potatoes. The last
were generally baked in the fire-place by covering them with

225
ashes and coals. - Mush and milk was n'ot an uncommon
diet. Venison could be had in abundance for the killing,
and shad for the catching. Deer and bear meat was made
more appetizing by smoking it. Jerked venison was also a
favorite article on the bill of fare. Milk was the main de
pendence, and was made a most palatable dish in several
ways. Stoves were not in use, and baking was done in fire-places
and stone bake- ovens. The raw material for bread and cake
was prepared and put into the bake-kettle (a low, kettle-
shaped iron pot with a 'cover), then placed over coals upon
the hearth-stone, with coals also upon the cover, that the
baking would be evenly done. The bake-kettle remained
in use for some years, when it was supplemented by the tin
oven. " Johnny cakes " were baked in the long-handled
frying-pans which were heated over the fire-places. Spiders
with long legs were used for the same purpose.
Maple sugar was used for sweetening purpos,es, and corn
cobs burned to get a substitute for saleratus. A " potash "
preparation was finally introduced to take the place of the
latter, but was hot generally used. Maple syrup and honey
took the place of butter, and bear's fat was used for short
ening. Fried cakes were baked in pots of bear and raccoon
fat. The only maple grove of any considerable importance
in the neighborhood was at Foster's. Many of the people
depended upon the settlers of the "Heverly settlement" and
Albany for their supply of sugar.
Browned rye, peas, beech-nuts, chestnuts and chiccory
were substituted for coffee, and= sage, thyme, peppermint,
(FF)

226
spearmint, evans-root, spice bush, sweet ft?rn, wintergreens
and hemlock Iioughs for tea. Imported tea and coffee were
too costly, and could only be afforded when the " good
mothers " had company. Moreover, Mr. Means and Mr.
Bowman only brought in an occasional supply of these ar
ticles. Herbs of all kinds were gathered and used for teas in
sickness, and each had its specific cure. For instance, elder-
blow, catnip and wormwood were used fbr children, and bone-
set,, pennyroyal, etc., for adults.
Greased paper, hvmg over an opening in the wall, afforded
light for the cabins in the daytime. At night they were il
luminated by the light given out from the huge fire-places^
and pitch-pine splinters stuck into the chimney jambs. This
furnished sufficient light for the mothers to sew, spin and
weave by ; for the fathers to mend and make shoes and the
boys and girls to get their lessons. Indeed, the Bingham
boys, who became good, substantial men, by their diligence
obtained a good education for the times, by studying even
ings by the light afforded in those days. A supply of pitch-
pine knots was put in before winter. Deer fat and lard were
sometimes used for illuminating purposes, but not frequently.
Tallow-lamps were finally introduced, and were used when
tallow could be had, or lard spared. They were a cup-like
construction to contain animal fats, and could be hung
against the wall. One end of a piece of cloth, answering as
a wick, was dropped into the cup and the other end, which
hung out, ^as lighted. Tallow candles next followed, and

227
subsequently lamps for burning coal oil, and finally gas in
Towanda village.
The time of day was determined by " sun-marks " or noon
marks, upon the door or window frame. Finally, the old-
fashioned clocks without cases and with long cords were
brought in and sold at fabulous prices.
Matches had not yet been invented and fire was made by
striking a piece of flint and steel, or the back of a jack-knife
together, causing a spark, which wa,s caught into a piece of
punk, an inflammable substance formed from decayed wood,
which was always kept in supply.
Coals were covered with ashes, or the fire«-place supplied
with slow burning fuel, to keep the fire through the night.
But even with this cate the fire was, frequently lost, and the
family required to go to a neighbor's after live coals in the
morning. This was called " borrowing fire,'' and was not
an unfrequent occurrence at Towanda.
Wooden pails were sub.stituted for tin, and wooden plates,
called " trenchers," bowls, etc., for earthenware. Wooden
spoons and forks, also pewter plates, .spoons and other table
pieces were in use.
" -Splint brooms" were made out of hickory, beech or
birch sapling.
Farming implements were very imperfect, as compared
with those of modern invention. A plow was used with
one handle, and a wooden mould-board ; a crotched sap
ling with holes bored through, and supplied with wooden
pins, answered as a harrow. Grain was sometimes " brush
ed in," by dragging a hemlock bush over the ground ;

228
pitch-forks and hoes were manufactured by blacksmiths
and were very clumsy articles ; grain was threshed with
flails, and cleaned by shaking it with a " hand fan," which
was a very laborious task. Fanning mills were not intro
duced till about the year 1825.
In lieu of a wagon, long sleds or carts with two wheels,
were used in making trips to mill and hauling small loads.
Oxen were generally used instead of horses, and in some
cases were trained to be quite fleet. They were not only
used for general purposes, but in making visits and carrying
the family to church.
Logging and Chopping bees were common, and the men
and boys most cheerfully turned out with their ox-teams,
or came with their a.xes to assist their neighbor in getting a
start. On such an occasion a sheep A'ould be killed, and
boiled mutton and pot-pie had in abundance for dinner and
supper. Spinning bees were also in fashion. The lady getting up
the bee, would distribute low among her lady friends, and
on a day set apart, they would bring in their skeins and
enjoys a visit and supper with her. The affair generally
wound up in the evening by a dance, or with " snap-and-
wink-em" and other games. Sometimes the ladies would
take their spinning-wheels under their arms and/ go to the
house of their friend, do a day's work and enjoy a visit at
the same time. Quilting and sewing parties were not un
common, and mothers and daughters alike came with their
needles to assist their friend in need.
Mowing bees, husking bees, apple cuts and spelling

229
schools were more of .a modern date, dancing he'ing the
chief entertainment of the young people.
Every mother taught her daughter to spin, weave and
make garments, besides giving her a most thorough train
ing in the culinary department. A thorough knowledge of
house-keeping was the one important thing for a young;
lady to know, and she that showed herself the most skilled
in this, was the first to find a suitor.
'' The ladies sung and danced so gay.
Beside the spinning-wheel.
And practiced late and early then.
On spindle swift and reel ;
The boys would ride bare-back to mill,
A dozen miles or so.
And didn't fear a sun-burnt brow,
Some fifty years' ago."
Courting is said to have been " short and sweet," and if a
youngswainafforded ahorse he wouldtake his lady love riding
by placing her on the horse behind himself On one occasion
a certain young gallant came tothe neighborhood, inthe
usual manner, to see his " Marinda Ann." During the
evening his horse broke loose and left him in an enibarassing
situation. The next morning as he was wending his way
homeward,- with his saddle over his arm, he aptly replied
(to one understanding the joke,) that " he had to take the
bitter with the sweet."
The people took great delight in visiting each other,
and \^ould generally go on foot, or with carts or sleds.
drawn '.y oxen. Evening visits were the most .common.
A n"?l was ?'w ys had together the hostess, with pride.

230
"preparing the best the house afforded. The guest never
forgot her knitting-work, or sewing, and would visit and
work at the same time. The kitchen was the parlor, sitting-
room and all. There were no castes then, and the old peo
ple say " these were the happiest days we .ever saw." One
neighbor envied not another, but on the contrary, did all in
his power to encourage and help along. All dwelt together
in " brotherly love," living as true men and women, with-
out the bigotry of a selfish nature.
Liquor was'' always had in abundance at bees, raisings
and other doings, and was a very common beverage — even
church members and preachers imbibing. " The best could
be had for twenty-five cents a gallon, and when a tippler
got boosy, he was not a week in getting over it.
Hay was scarce, and cattle fed largely upon browse — the
under-shoots of trees, especially of the maple and bass-
wood. Cows roamed in the woods during the summer sea
son, and were found by the tinkle of the bells, which they
wore about their necks. Pigs were fatted upon hickory
nuts or taken to the beechnut woods.
ROADS.
" The only roads the early settlers found were the natural
highways,^the river and the large creeks,— and those which
had been made by the Red men. Along the path of Sulli
van's army there had been made a road passable fbr horses,
but this had been badly injured during the four years Vhich
intervenecj between the time of that expedition and the set
tlement of the county. All of the early travelers describe

231
it as a difficult and dangerous path, supported in some places
by the trunks of trees, in others nearly filled by the loose
earth having fallen down into it, winding over rocks and
steep mountain sides, from the tops of some of whose en
campments the traveler might look down hundreds of feet.
The fact that the Susquehanna has no natural valley, that it
breaks through a succession of ridges, that the faces of these
ridges next the river are almost perpendicular and reach-
down sheer to the water's edge, has always made it a diffi
cult and expensive matter to construct roads along the river
and to keep them in repair after they had been constructed.
" The first settlers in this county experienced the embar
rassments arising from the want of roads in a great degree.
As soon as they could provide for the immediate necessities
of their families, they began the opening of highways for
travel and transportation. The river, when navigable, afford
ed a cheap and ready means of transporting articles down
but to push a large boat, or even a canoe, against the rapid*
current and over the shoals and rifts in the Susquehanna
was a pretty formidable undertaking. Then at times the
river was rendered impassable on account of ice or floods."'
The first road of any considerable use to the people was
the State Road, from Wilkes-Barre to the State line. Filed
at Harrisburg is the " Draft and Return of the Survey of a
Road," which is described as beginning on the west side of
the river, opposite Wilkes-Barre ; thence up the west side
of the river to Wyalusing, where it crosses the river near
Sugar Run, " a mile below Hancock's " ; thence up the river
to Wyalusing Creek ; thence to Towanda and the State line.

232
This was commonly called the " Old Stage Road," as over
it the first mails were carried through the county. The
survey was filed in 1780.
In answer to a petition signed by a number bf citizens
about Ulster, the court of Luzerne county appointed Com
missioners to lay out a road from Towanda Creek to Tioga
Point, who reported a survey of a road beginning at Jacob
Bowman's tavein and crossing the Tioga opposite Hollen
back's store, and recommending it approved, Nov. 20, 1792.
Just.two years after — Nov. 20, 1794 — a return is made of a
survey of a road up the west side of the river, from Wya
lusing Falls to Tioga. In 1795 the road was laid out up
Towanda Creek, and another up Sugar Creek in 1798.
In 1807-8, pursuant to an act of the Legislature a road
was surveyed, " beginning at a point where the Coshecton
and Great Bend turnpike passes through the^Hoosic moun
tains, thence in a westerly direction to the western botind of
the State." The road, however, seems to have been some
time in building. By act of the Legislature of 1815-16, an
appropriation was made for the building of a certain section
of this road in the eastern part of the county, and George
Scott, Samuel Wood and Ebenezer Kendall appointed Com
missioners to superintend the disbursement. This road
passed through the towns of Pike, Wysox, crossed the river
at Towanda, where State street now is, thence up by Gregg's
through East Troy, and Covington in Tioga county. It is
still known in the eastern part of the cpunty as the " State
Road." The road was built through Towanda in about
1817.-

233
An act of Assembly, passed March 30, 1824, authorized
the appointment of Commissioners to lay out a road from
Meansville to Pennsborough (Muncy). William Brindle,
Edward Eldred and Eliphalet Mason were appointed, who
report the survey of the road, which they began at a point
which was fourteen rods from the front of the Court House,
and then ran to the line between Bradford and Lycoming
counties, a distance of seventeen and one-half miles. It
should be remembered, however, that the roads above men
tioned were not all opened at the time of the survey, it in
some cases being years after.
MAIL MATTERS.
In 1800 a mail route was established between Wilkes-
Barre and Painted Post, with offices at Wyalusing and
Athens in this county.
The following will show how letters came in those days^
Postmarked — " Lewiston 29th May, 1800."
Mr. Reuben Hale, *
Mouth of Towanda Creek,
15 miles below Tioga Point."
" To be forwarded from Wilkes-Barre." marked — " paid."
" In 1803 Charles Mowery and Cyril Peck carried the
¦mail from Wilkes-Barre to Tioga on foot once in two weeks."
"In 1 8 10 Conrad Teetor contracted with the Government
,to carry the mail once a week in stages from Sunbury to"
Painted Post, by the way of Wilkes-Bar:re, Wyalusing and
Athens." However, he did not always drive his " coach
(GSi)

234
and four," as he was accustomed to call his stage and team,
going on horse-back or with a one-horse wagon when the
mail was small or the passengers few. In 1804 a postoffice
was established at Wysox, with Burr Ridgway postmaster,
whither t'ne Towanda people were required to go after their
mail. In the Autumn of 1810 Reuben Hale was appointed
postmaster for Towanda, and the office kept by E. B.
Gregory, whom he had appointed his deputy. When the
stage arrived on the east side of the river the mail carrier
would blow his horn, when some one would be sent across
the ferry for the mail, which would be left in a hollow
stump. This was usually carried over in one's pockets or
in a pillow case. In 1812 William Means was appointed
postmaster and the office kept at his house. In those days
the postage was paid by the one receiving the letter or par
cel. By Act of Congress Feb. i, 18 16, the following rates
of postage were established :
For single letters,* any distance not exceeding 40 miles,
8 cents ; over 40 miles not exceeding 90, 10 cents; over 90
not exceeding 150, I2j^ cents; over 150 not exceeding
300, 17 cents; over 300 not exceeding 500, 20 cents ; over
500, 25 cents. The same can now be carried to any part of
the United States for two cents. Double and triple letters
were double and triple the above rates.
The Bradford Gazette of Sept. 14, 1813, gives, the follow
ing list of letters remaining in the postoffice at Towanda,
¦Sept.9, 1813 : "County of Bradford — Isaac Allen, Absa-
* Single letters were those that contained one piece of paper; double letters two pieces,
triple letterB three pieces, etc.

235
.1 _ .
lom Carr, Towanda — Ethan Baldwin, Samuel Cranmer,
Isaac Ellsworth, William French, Sally Kent, Eliphalet
Mason, Esq., Silas Scovel ; Canton — David May ; Orwell —
Nancy Darling ; Wysox— Jacob Strickland.
EBENEZER B. GREGORY, A. P. M."
At this -time it will be remembered that there was not a
mail route in the western. part of the county, and that the
people residing there were required to come or send to
Towanda after their mail. In 1819^ we find Edwin Benja
min, P. M., at Towanda; in 1822 Morris Spalding; then
followed Nathaniel N. Betts for several years ; Ethan Bald
win for a short time, who was succeeded by Alvah Cham
berlain, S. S. Bailey, John G. Fries, Col. H. B. McKean,
G. A. Chase, S. W. Alvord, Col. Elhanan Smith, Wm. Shaw,
S. W. Alvord (again), Percival Powell, J. P. Keeny, E. A.
Parsons (incumbent).
The Towanda office not only accommodated the citizens
of the borough but besides those residing in the two town
ships. June 21, 1852. a postoffice was established at North
Towanda with Stephen A. Mills postmaster, and continued
for a short time. In about 1840 Manville Mills postoffice
was established at the Pail Factory, and continued for some
thing like two years, Chas. M. Manville being the post
master. ELECTIONS AND OFFICERS.
After the forniation of the county the " Red Tavern " was
the election place for many years. The first election was
held on the second Tuesday (13th) of October, 18 12, for the

236
purpose of electing county officers. The board appointed
to conduct the election in Towanda were Eliphalet Mason,
inspector ; John Felton, Jacob Bowman, Charles Brown,
judges ; Ethan Baldwin and E. B. Gregory, clerks. Those
that voted at th.at election were — Henry Salisbury, William
Finch, Henry Spalding, Benjamin Coolbaugh, James Dough
erty, Wm. Coolbaugh, Ananias Whitman, Solomon Allen,
John Pierce, Peter Edsall, Reese Stephen,*, Usual Carter,
Isaac Foster, Nathaniel Edsall, Russell Fowler, Elias Thomp
son, Samuel Seely, Jacob Wagner, David Blanchard, Eze
kiel Griffus, Moses Gladden, Jacob Ringer, Nathan Coon, '
Aaron Carter, William Coolbaugh, Jr., Amos Ackler, Ste
phen Wilcox, John Goodwin, Wm. Peppers, Wm. McGill,
John Head, Andrew Gregg, Ezra Rutty, Thomas Cox, Abial
Foster, John Northrup, Benjamin Ackles, Edsall Carr, Ab
salom Carr, Wm. French, Jr., Wm. B. Spalding, George
Bowman, Noah Spalding, John Mintz, Wm. Means, Moses
Warford, Amos Bennett, Jr., Amos V. Mathews, Buckley
Chaapel, Ezra Rutty, Jr., Stephen Horton, Elisha Carpen
ter, Lemuel Payson, Abner C. Rockwell, Ebenezer P. Clark,
Adonijah Alden, Abijah Northrop, Martin Stratton, Timo
thy Stratton, Sam'l Needham, Eleazer Sweet, Timothy Alden,
Job Irish, Oliver Newell, Moses Rowley, Richard Goff;
Solomon Talady, Jr., Ozias Bingham, John Fox, Jonathan
Fowler, Abraham Foster, Austin Fowler, Wm. Thompson,
Isaac Ellsworth, Elisha Cole, Richard Benjamin, Jas. Lewis,
Samuel Cranmer, Parly White, John Schrader, Josiah Cran
mer, Wm. Goff, John D. Saunders, Ethan Baldv«Jn, John
Franklin, JabiEiz.: Squires,-, Jacob Bowman:, Zabin .Williams,

237
Joshua Wythe, Samuel Gilson, James Roales, John Schra
der, Jr., Calvin Cranmer, James Northrup, Eliphalet Mason,
John Felton, Charles Brown, Jonathan Frisbie, Josiah Stock
ings, E. B. Gregory, Rufus Foster, Smith Horton, Reubetv
Hale, Ephraim Ladd, Warner Ladd, Rowland Wilcox, Shef
field Wilcox, Daniel Miller. Total number of voters, io8.
These electors resided in what are now »tlie towns of Asy
lum, Albany, Monroe, Franklin, and the Towandas.
The candidates voted for at this election were for Sheriff —
A. C. Rockwell, 84 votes ; John Spalding 2nd, 25 ; Wm.
Means, 40 ; John Mintz, 26 ; John Taylor, 3 ; Jacob Board-
man, I ; Jacob Bowman, 8 ; Job Irish, 2 ; Aaron Carter, 2 ;
Josiah Stocking, i ; John Miner, i ; George Bowman, i ;
Elisha Cole, I ; John Fox, 2; Peter Edsall, i; Andrew
Gregg, I ; Samuel McKean, 4. Commissioners — ^John Salt-
marsh, 35 ; Samuel Gon, 34 ; George Scott, 33 ; Joseph
Kinney, 58 ; William Myer, 62 ; Justus Gaylord, 54; Eliph
alet Mason, 14 ; Jesse Hancock, 3 ; Isaac Chaapel, 2 ; Clem
ent Paine, 6; Charles Brown, I.. Coroner — John Fox, 2 ;
John Taylor, 43 ; John Horton, 43 ; John Minor, 41 ; Harry
Spalding, 48; Jacob BoWman, 6; Reuben Hale, 2; Job
Irish, I.
At the general election, October, 1813, we find the fol
lowing names not contained in the list of 1812: Daniel
Thompson, Thomas Simpson, Chas. F. Welles, A. C. Stuart,
Daniel Drake,'! Nathaniel Talcott, Jesse Woodruff, George
Davidson, Burr; Ridgeway, Christopher Cowel, John Simp-'
kins, Andrew Irwin* , :• ..'l , . ¦ ']
Th^ first township-officers elected fbr Towanda, , in AprilJ

238
l8 1 3, were: William Gough, Constable; Noah Spalding
and Wm. Means, Supervisors. The first (1829) officers of
Towanda borough were : Hiram Mix, Burgess ; Jared D.
Goodenough, Warren Brown, Warren Jenkins, John N;
Weston, Stephen Hiatt, Council ; Wm. Kelly, High Con
stable. The first officers elected (Jan. 16, 1852) for North
Towanda township were : Jesse Woodruff, Judge ; Wm. H.
Foster, Francis Watts, Inspectors ; Stephen Bennett, Justice-
of-the-Peace ; Isaac Myer, D. M. Bull, Daniel Kern, Com
missioners ; John Bailey, Jr., Assessor; John C. Adams,
Stephen Powell, James Elliott, Auditors; Wm. J. Mauger,
Edward Carpenter, Roderick Granger, Nathaniel Bennett,
Benj. C. Goodwin, Stephen Powell, School Directors ; Rich
ard Horton, Constable; Sam'l. B.Foster, Treasurer; Jos.
C Powell, Town Clerk.
Towanda township comprises a single election district
and in 1884, gave for President Jas. G. Blaine, 154- votes;
Grover Cleveland, 53; J. P. St, John, 2 . B. F. Butler, 3.
Towanda borough comprises three districts or wards and
gave in 1884, Jas. G. Blaine 522 votes ; Grover Cleveland,
236; J. P. St. John, 13 ; B. F. Butler, 58. North Towanda
gave Jas. G. Blaine, 97 votes; Grover Cleveland, 54; J. P.
St, John, 3 ; B. F; Butler, 4. MILLS.
For many years one of the principal things with the pio
neers was lumbering. Mills were put up at an early day ;
the first of which we have any record of is described on
pages 50 and 53. The next, the Foster mill on Sugar Creek
(page 63), was built about the same time, and a year or two

,239
after the " original grist mill," a little above it, with a single-
run of stone. Jacob Myer was connected with the grist
mill for a year or two and " in 1799 enlarged and improved
it." His son, Isaac Myer, subsequently purchased the prop
erty, enlarged the mill, improved it, and for many years did
a very extensive business — the place still being known as
¦' Myer's Mills."
Jacob Myer, a brother of Isaac, purchased an interest
with him in both mills. He was a mechanic, and built a
carding and fulling mill about seven rods above the grist
mill and for a number of years they did a considerable
business in that line in addition to 'lumbering. They also
put up a sawmill at Luther's Mills, Jacob finally becoming
interested in the mills at the Pail Factory. In 1848 Isaac
Myer tore down a greater part of the grist mill and rebuilt
a larger one on an improved plan. In 1858 he .sold a one-
third interest each to E. T. Fox and J. O. Frost, and in 1871
sold the remaining third to Wm. Foster, who with D. F
Foster and Thos. Clancey are the present proprietors.
The original sawmill at Hale's was built something over
100 feet above the present grist mill and its power supplied
through a mill race from a dam built at the head of the
island, on the south side of the creek. The dam has since
been built farther down the creek, and lengthened at differ
ent times, owing to the wash of the creek. The grist mill
which was built in or before 1800 (page 56) was supplied
from the same dam and stood about 100 feet below the saw
mill. Nearly thirty years ago the old mill was torn down,
and a new one — the present one — built by Maj. Hale and

240
"G. H. Bull a little below the original site. In about 184O
the old sawmill -was torn down and replaced by a more
modern structure, which went to decay about twenty years ago.
This mill property, which has passed through numerous
hands in its early history, is now, owned by F. H. Hager-
man. In 1827 Nathaniel Manville came in from Rochester,
N. Y., and forming a co-partnership withi Jacob Myer, they
purchased the mill property of Abraham Foster and Wm.
Pepper, and in 1828 made additions and converted the grist
mill into a pail factory. An oil mill was also put up and
the manufacture of lumber continued. An average of
fifteen men were employed the year round, besides several
girls in the painting department. The establishment did a
flourishing busines for several years and turned out a supe
rior line of goods of both fancy and plain ^ware. Theytook
their pails down the river in raft-loads and sold them at
various points, also hauled them to Elmira and other places.
Flax seed was brought to their mill in large quantities and
sold or traded for oil. A village was started of several
families, a boarding-house opened and a postoffice estab
lished, besides a wagon-shop, a shoe- shop and blacksmith-
shop. Nathaniel Manville finally sold out his interest to
his brother, C. M. Manville, ' who continued the business
still under the old name of " Myer & Manville" till 1847,
when they sold to Wm. Barnes, who is yet engaged in the
manufacture of lumber there. The competition of other
factories, finally so crippled the sale of the goods which
were manufactured here that the business was discontinued;
and the thriving little town abandoned.

241
DISTILLERIES.
At an early day distilleries were established by Jacob
Bov/man, Wm. Means, Ezra Rutty, Reuben Hale, and later
by Hiram Mix. There were quite as many in Monroe and
others still farther up the Towanda and Sugar creeks. The
manufacture of liquor was an important industry and it was
a common beverage. Almost every family kept a supply
and it- was thought that haying-and-harvesting, bees, rais
ings, etc., could not be properly gone through with without
it. Even ministers when passing through on their circuits,
" expected a little whisky to refresh them." The liquor was
pure, drunkards few and delirium tremens seldom heard of
SHAD-FISHING.
One of the main dependencies of the early settlers was
the innumerable quantities of shad, which in their season
were found in the Susquehanna, being of a superior quality
and flavor. As soon as the ice went out of the river the
shad started on their journey to the fresh water creeks, for
the purpose of spawning, returning to the sea late in the
season. They came in very large schools, and from time
immemorial the natives of the forest had been in the habit
of taking them in large quantities with their bush-nets. The
early settlers would select a cove on the point of an island
free from rocks and large stones as " the drawing place "
for their seine. The head of Northrup's island, above the
mouth of Towanda Creek, was noted " pulling ground." So
plentiful were these delicious fish that they were caught by
the barrel and salted for summer use, besides large quanti
ties being sold to the other settlers. The dams which were
(HH)

242
thrown across the river when the canal was built have pre
vented the shad from ascending the river, and thus deprived
the people of a great luxury.
Venison was also a favorite food of tbe pioneers. Deer
were plentiful, and in the early days of Towanda village,
when being hotly pursued, these creatures would go bound
ing down Main street to strike " tbe runway " near the Bar
clay depot, thence swimming the river at the head of North
rup's island. AN ACCIDENT.
Some years before i8l2, Samuel Clark was cutting out a
road up Sugar Creek, when he was mistaken by Capt. Coons
and shot for a deer. " He was a native of Rhode Island
and came to Ulster in or before the year 1800. He was a
brother of Benjamin Clark, of that place, and father of
Ebendzer Clark," already mentioned in this volume.
A NARROW ESCAPE.
Many years ago, when the Towanda hills were yet a wil
derness, " Sim " West, a young man, started one evening
from his father's (Williamston West) to Wm. Finch's, two
miles distant. Not long after he started a pack of gray
wolves struck his track, and followed, making the woods
ring with their disfnal howls. He ran at his best speed, the
wolves constantly gained on him, and would soon have
overtaken him had it not been forthe Cox house on the way.
Bursting open the door, he barely had time to mount the
ladder leading to the second .story, which he drew up after
him, before the denizens of the wood filled the room below.

243

All night long the hungry pack kept up their howls, leaving
at daylight, when the young man passed on to Mr. Finch's
and related his adventure.

MISCELLANEOUS.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
DAVID WILMOT.
No man has ever lived in Bradford county, nor indeed in
Northern Pennsylvania, who has achieved so wide a reputa
tion as David Wilmot. He was born in Bethany, Wayne
county. Pa., where he spent his boyhood days and was
educated there, and at Aurora. At the age of eighteen he
commenced the study of law at Wilkes-Barre, where he re
mained until the time of his admission to the bar, when he
removed to Towanda. He soon became a conspicuous
character, and early in his career gained a great influence
over the people, with whom he was always honest. He
had a fine voice, a good presence and an eloquent tongue.
Indeed, he quite magnetized his hearers and could use
satire without giving serious offense. Mr. Wilmot was pos
sessed of a remarkable analytical mind-, but was not a great
lawyer save before a jury. He relied upon his latent re
sources at the moment to make up for his lack of thorough
ness and aversion to study. However, he was a deep thinker
and with his quickness of comprehension, eloquence and
ability to read faces, carried juries while others more
thoroughly versed in the law made but little impression.
His make up soon developed him into a politician, and he
took the Democratic side of the house opposed to Gen.
McKean and his followers. It was not long before he be
came recognized as a leader, and in 1844 was elected as a

24o
Free Trade Democrat to Congress, and was the only member
from Pennsylvania who voted for the repeal of the " tariff
of '42." In common with the Democratic party he favored
the annexation of Texas. On the 4th of August, 1846,
President Polk sent to the Senate a confidential message,
asking an appropriation to negotiate a peace with Mexico.
A bill was introduced into th,e House, appropriating two
millions of dollars for the purpose specified. It had now
become so apparent that the proposition was intended to
strengthen the pro-slavery influence in the general govern
ment, that a consultation of a few members or Congress
was held and the matter thoroughly discussed. It was
agreed that it was a move not in accordance with the Dem
ocratic or Jeffersonian idea as argued in the Constitutional
Convention and shown by the ordinances of 1787. The
measure must therefore be checked, and the following reso
lution was drawn up by Mr. Wilmot and agreed to by the
others, and he selected to offer it as an amendment to the
bill ; " Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude shall ex
ist in any part of said Territory, except for crime, whereof
the party shall first be duly convicted," which has since
that time been known in our country's history ss the " Wil
mot Proviso." The measure, though lost in Congress,
created a great agitation throughout the country, and was
the wedge which split the Democratic party upon the
slavery question. Many of the Democrats in the district
made a bold assault upon Mr. Wilmot for this, and tried to
prevent his return to Congress. -In 1846 he was re-elected
on the tariff issue over Judge White, a High Tariff Demo
crat ; and again in 1848, mainly on the sentiment of his
proviso. While he was elected as a Democrat he was a
" Free Soiler" and supported Van Buren for the Presidency
in 1848. In 1850 Mr Wilmot again secured a renomination
to Congress as a Free Soil- Democrat, which resulted in a
split of the Democratic party in the district on the slavery
question. The pro-slavery Democrats having put a candi
date in in nomination, for the good of the party, upon .Mr.

246
Wilmot's suggestion, both candidates withdrew and Galusha
A. Grow was selected as a compromise and elected. In
185 1 he was elected Presiding Judge cf the district over
Wm. Elwell, the Independent candidate, and acted in the
capacity for which he had been elected till 1857, when he
resigned the office to enter the gubernatorial contest. His
competitor, Wm. F. Packer, the Democratic candidate was
elected, but his defeat sounded the death knell of the Dem
ocratic party iri the State and made him more popular than
before. The speeches which he made throughout the
State awakened a deep interest in the principles of the
Republican party, and finally made it victorious. However,
he had not dreamed of an election, and at a serenade given
him at his home, after his nomination, said : " I well under
stand I can not be elected, but the canvass will be the means
of establishing a party of which the people will be proud
and can rely upon." His statement was verified the next
year by a Republican victory in the State.
Mr. Wilmot was one of the fathers of the Republican
party, and in fact, the very measures which he had proposed
in Congress in 1846, had no small influence in leading to
its existence. In Bradford county, and, indeed, in the
" Wilmot District," he made the Republican party what it
is to-day. While acting as Judge he would hold courts
during the day and speak to the people inthe school-houses
at night. Mr. Wilmot was a delegate to the National Republican
Convention held in Philadelphia in 1856, and was chairman
of the committee on resolutions and drew up the famous
resolutions denouncing " slavery and polygamy as the twin
relics of barbarism." " In the convention he was proposed
as the candidate on the ticket with Mr. Fremont for the vice-
presidency. He could have commanded a unanimous nomi
nation but was averse to it." In i860 Mr. Wilmot was also
a delegate to the National Republican Convention held in
Chicago, and was its temporary chairman. He, with the
Pennsylvania delegation, was instructed to vote for Gen.

247
Cameron. After one ballot he saw that Seward would be
nominated unless Cameron were dropped. Whereupon the
Pennsylvania delegation, he at its head, asked leave to re
tire. After consultation Mr. Wilmot asked that their in
structions be taken off, which was agreed to. by the delega
tion. Upon the second ballot nearly their whole vote was-
cast for Mr. Lincoln, which carried enough others on the
third ballot to nominate him. Mr. Lincoln never forgot his
kindness, and he always had great influence with him.
After Mr. Wilmot's defeat in 1857 he was appointed by
Gov. Pollock to the same office which he had resigned, and
continued to act in that capacity until 1861, when he was-
elected to the U. S. Senate to fill the vacancy caused by the
resignation of Gen. Cameron, who had been selected as one
of Mr. Lincoln's cabinet. " A wide field of honor and- use
fulness seemed to open before him. He was in the prime
ofhis manhood, in the full vigor of his mental powers, re
vered everywhere as the champion of freedom, and his friends
confidently expected him to win for himself a still loftier
name while advancing the cause of human rights. But at
the outset of his senatorial (1861) career his health began
gradually to fail, until it was almost impossible for him to
attend to the routine of his duties." Mr. Wilmot was a
member ofthe " Peace Conference " of 1861, and when com
ing down from one of its meetings said : " There is no use ;
we cannot agree, and I am not sure that a war would be
the worst thing that could happen to this country. I fear it is
near at hand." At the close of his term as Senator he was
appointed by President Lincoln a Judge of the Court of
Claims, which office he held until the time of his death.
In politics Mr. Wilmot was wonderfully successful, and
up to 1857 knew not what defeat was, even though he some
times ran counter to the party machinery. Such an influ
ence had he that he virtually ran the politics of the county.
After the organization of the Republican party in this county
in 1855, he kept up such a constant agitation ofthe slavery
question that in 1856 he gave Fremont 4600 majority over

249
Buchanan, the county having been heretofore Democratic
by several hundred. The "Wilmot District" gave Fre
mont a rhajority often thousand.
Mr. Wilmot was not an Abolitionist, as is sometimes sup
posed, but on the contrary was opposed to that party. He
never claimed a place with Wendell Phillips, Thur-
low Weed, William Lloyd Garrison, or Horace Greely, for
he fought slavery a long time within the Democratic party
and hoped to maintain his position and influence in that
organization while making the battle. He soon found that
the timber was too knotty to work, but not to split, and he
put in his wedge and began the effort, which was successful.
Without doubt he had more to do with the creation of the
Republican party and the overthrow of the Democratic,
than any other man. Mr. Wilmot was a strong, powerful
force in starting the combat which finally resulted in the
abolition of slavery. In the South his proviso made him
despised by the slave-holder as an usurper and, indeed,
the very school children were taught to hate him.
The slaves early learned his name and had, almost, more
than an earthly reverence for him. " Mr. Wilmot was a
man of strong convictions, and outspoken in the expres
sion of his opinions — a man greatly loved by his friends
and unsparingly hated by his enemies. He was a powerful
speaker, keen in debate, carrying with him the hearts of
his hearers, and producing conviction in others frequently
by the strength of his own." But Mr. Wilmot's end is sad.
Continued ill health affected his mind and he finally died of
softening ofthe brain, at his residence in Towanda, in 1868.
He is buried in " Riverside Cemetery," and his resting place
is marked by a plain slab on which is inscribed :
"DAVID WILMOT,
Born
Jan. 20, 1 8 14,
Died
March 16, 1868,
Aged 54 years."

240
" Neither slavery nnr involuntary servitude shall exist in any part of said
territory, except for crime, whereof the party shall be duly convicted."
What epitaph could be more appropriate ? — His own im
mortal proviso, that gave him a national celebrity and made
him idolized by nearly four millions of slaves. No
man has ever lived in old Bradford who so nearly became
the idol ofthe people as he, nor had so great an influence
over them. Wilmot tov/nship is so named in his honor.

HON. ULYSSES MERCUK.
Hon. Ulysses Mercur, Chief Justice ofthe Supreme Court
of Pennsylvania, 'was born at Towanda, Aug. 12, 1818. He
was the fourth son of Henry and Mary Watts Mercur.
After having received his preparatory education, he entered
Jefferson College, Cannonsburg, Washington Co., Pa., at the
age of twenty. In college he was noted for his studious-
ness and extraordinary perceptive faculties. In his junior
year he was chosen disputant of his class society in a joint
discussion with the senior society, of which the late Clement
L. Vallandigham was disputant. The discussion was de
cided in Mercur's favor, which so annoyed Vallandigham
that he resolved not to leave college until he had another
opportunity of crossing swords with his rival of the junior
class. The opportunity wgs given him and he was again
worsted, Mr. Mercur coming off victorious the second time.
During his last year in college Mr. Mercur found that the
mastery of his studies did not require all his time, and having
decided to adopt the law as a profession, entered the ofiice
of Hon. Thos. M. T. McKennan, author of the " Tariff of
'42," and father of Judge McKennan, of the United States
District Court. After graduating with high honors he re
turned to his home in Towanda, where he entered the law
office of Edward Overton, Esq., one of the mOst able law
yers of Northern Pennsylvania at that time, to complete his
legal studies. (II)

250
Such confidence had Mr. Overton in the young man's
ability that he made him an equal partner in t'he profits of
the business, as soon as he should enter his office. After a
year with Mr. Overton he was admitted to the bar. His
intuitive love for the profession and thorough knowledge of
" the books," acquired by close study, were supplemented
by strict attention to business and untiring industry — virtues
which seldom fail of success. On accession to the bar he-
was brought into contact with such able and distinguished
attorneys as Edward Overton, Judge Williston, William
Elwell, William Watkins, David Wilmot, and others, who
rendered the bar of Bradford county famous for ability and
personal worth. The young member soon reached the
front rank, and before he had been many years in practice
was acknowledged the peer of his ablest associates. As a
practitioner he was conscientious and never advised litiga
tion merely to get " a retainer." After a client had repeated
his case, if hopeless, Mr. Mercur would inform him that he
was wrong and that he could not take it. " But I
will pay you well for your services, Mr. Mercur." "You
are wrong, sir! and I don't want your case at any price."
This reputation won for him the most implicit confidence of
the people, and few important cases were tried in court
while he was practicing at the bar that he was not employed
in. It is no flattery to say that as a young lawyer he was
unsurpassed in the State. As an evidence of Mr. Mercur's
transparent candor and honesty in his relation to clients
and his desire to impress upon students the sacred obliga
tion to profound secrecy and fidelity in their business rela
tions with those by whon they might be professionally em
ployed, it is said that he never retired to the " consultation
room" with clients, but compelled them to state their cases
in the presence of such students as were present — assuring
them that anything they might disclose would never be repeat
ed. One characteristic of Judge Mercur, remembered by the
citizens of Towanda, is the untiring industry with which he
labored at his profession. While Judge Wilmot, the lead-

251
ing lawyer in the town, who was always noted for a ten
dency to avoid close application to his desk was at the
village store in the evening telling stories to the crowd of
rustics, young Mercur was at his office writing deeds or
poring over his books in search of authorities for use in
court. " At any hour," said an old citizen of Towanda re
cently, " Mercur could be found at his office'. In those
days I used to go home very late at night, and there was
always a light in his office." Judge Wilmot was strong
with a jury, but he relied upon an infinite fund of wit and
turning to use some trifling circumstance brought out at
the trial, but Judge Mercur studied cases thoroughly and
always went into court prepared. Seventeen years of close
application to his extensive business told on his constitution,
and in the winter of 1860-61, he was compelled to give up
work for several months, and that respite restored his health
and gave him a new lease of life, which abstemious habits
and careful observance bf the laws of health have protected
since. On the election of Judge Wilmot to the United
States Senate in Jan. 1861, he resigned the president Judge
ship of the I2th Judicial District, and Mr. Mercur Was ap
pointed to fill the vacancy. He discharged the onerous
duties with such entire acceptability to the bar and people,
that at the ensuing election he was chosen for a full term
without opposition, the district being composed of the coun
ties of Bradford and Susquehanna. In 1862 a division in
the Republican party in the Congressional district composed
of the counties of Bradford, Columbia, Montour, Sullivan
and Wyoming, resulted in the defeat of the regular , nom
inee. To prevent a similar disaster in 1864, Mr. Mercur
was prevailed upon to accept a unanimous nomination, and
was triumphantly elected, his opponent being Col. V. E,
Piollet, also of Bradford. He was nominated for three
consecutive terms, and before the expiration of his fourth
term, in 1872, was nominated by the Republican State Con
vention for Judge of the Supreme Court. M'r. Mercur
accepted a fourth nomination to Congress only because he

232
wished to use his influence inthe repeal of the law imposing
a duty on tea and coffee, also the law giving a portion of
the penalty, for violation of the revenue law, to the in
formant. *
Of Judge Mercur's reputation on the bench and in Con
gress it is unnecessary to speak, and we shall only remark
in passing that his record is an honor to his constituents,
and one of which any generation might ju-^tly feel proud.
His public record is singularly free from demagogy and
tricks ofthe average politician, while in his private life he is
as pure as the mountain stream. His political advance
ments, like his business success, are solely due to marked
abilitj' and personal worth. During his nearly quarter of a
century in public life his bitterest political opponents have
never even intimated anything derogatory to his honor as a
gentleman and strict fidelity to the trusts confided to his
keeping. His eminence as a jurist was evmced in his nomination
for the high position he now holds, without having canvass
ed for the office, over some ofthe ablest judges in the State.
In Congress Judge Mercur was not a " talking member,"
though he has few equals in debate, but was lookod up to as
one of the mosr useful Representatives. He was a member
ofthe Judiciary Committee, and took an active part in pre
paring the reconstruction measures rendered necessary by
the secession ofthe Southern States. It was during the dis
cussion on one ofthe bills on that subject that he made use
of this memorable sentence: " If they (the people of the
States lately in rebellion) will not respect the stars they must
feel the stripes of our glorious flag." One important meas
ure which he was instrumental in passing through Congress
deserves to be placed beside the Wilmot proviso and Grow's
homestead bill. We refet to the act exempting tea and
coffee from duty, thus reducing the price of these almost
necessary articles of diet, which are needed alike by the rich
and poor.
In politics Judge Mercur was originally a Democrat

253
(though his brothers were all active Whigs), adhering to the
Free Soil wing of the party, having been educated in the
same political school with Wilmot and Grow. He was one
ofthe first to protest against the scheme to enslave Kansas
and Nebraska, and took an active part in the organization
ofthe Republican party, which we believe had its birth in
Towanda as early as February, 1855, when a meeting was
called to give expression to the indignation ofthe people of
the North at the repeal of the Missouri Compromise. He
was also a delegate to the preliminary State Convention in
Pittsburg, and an elector on the Lincoln ticket in i860.
Judge Wilmot always esteemed him his friend and con
fidential adviser in politics as well as legal affairs. When
Wilmot was invited by President Lincoln, in the Spring of
1861, to act as Peace Commissioner at Washington, before
accepting the appointment he visited Judge Mercur, and
after a full consultation decided to go and, to use his own
words, " try to prevent a patched up compromise," which
would leave the difference between the two sections of the
Union as far from being settled as before.
In 1850 Judge Mercur married Miss Sarah S. Davis,
daughter ofthe late Gen. John Davis, of Bucks county, and
his domestic life has been very happy. Five children have
been born to him, all' of whom are still living. The eldest,
Rodney A , is an eminent lawyer at Towanda ; two other
sons. Dr. John D. and James W., attorney at law, reside in
Philadelphia. The only daughter married Col. B. F. Eshel-
man, of Lancaster.
The Sabbath seldom fails to find the Judge in the house
of worship. His family are connected with the Episcopal
Church, and he is a liberal supporter and constant attendant
upon the services ofthe church.
As Chief Justice (since January, 1883,) we prophesy for
Judge Mercur the same eminence and distinction attained
in the other stations he has been called upon to fill, and that
the historian of the Judiciary of the Commonwealth will
write him airiong the ablest, wisest and purest who have

254
Worn the judicial ermine and adorned the Supreme Bench.
Though in his sixty-eighth year, the Judge is yet in pos
session of clear, unclouded mental vision and vigorous, well-
preserved physical health — literally having " a sound mind
in a healthy body."* The industrious habits of younger
days -still cling to him, and during the short recesses of
court which he spends at his elegant residence in Towanda,
he is not often seen idle but busies himself in the investiga
tion of intricate legal questions, writing out opinions, etc.
Genuine sociability and hospitality are family characteris
tics, and the Judge is not lacking in these qualities. He is
always " at home " to, his friends and is one of the most en
tertaining of hosts.
From honest convictions he is a pronounced, thorough
Republican, but is not a bigot and always treats his political
adversary with gentlemanly respect. Some of his greatest
admirers and warmest personal friends are not members of
his political household.
The old " Wilmot district " has never produced a man of
whom the people have greater reason to feel proud, nor one
who will ever have a warmer place in their hearts than Judge
Mercur.

ELISHA SHELDON GOODRICH
Was born in Walton, Delaware county, N. Y., Aug. 15, 18 10.
Soon after his birth — the same year — his father, Elnathan
Goodrich, rerhoved with his family to Columbia township,
Bradford county, where Elisha grew to man's estate. In
his younger days he engaged in school teaching, and at a
suitable age, married a daughter of Deacon Parsons, of
Columbia. The following biographical notice, which appeared in the
Bradford Reporter, at the instance of his death, in 1862,
will be found interesting : " At an early age he was called
into public life, and in various capacities served the public
the greater part ofhis life. In 1831 he was appointed Reg-

255
ister and Recorder of Bradford county by Governor Wolf,
whereupon he took up his residence at the county-seat.
He held this office for five years, during which time he was
appointed a Justice-of-the-Peace of Towanda borough. In
1 844 he was chosen Transcribing Clerk of the State Senate
and held the office one session. He was chosen Chief Clerk
in 1845 and re-elected in 1846. In 1852 he was appointed
Deputy Secretary of the Commonwealth under Governor
Bigler, and held the office until 1855. In most ofhis pri
vate enterprises he was a prominent man before the public.
In -1835 he purchased the Northern Banner, which he pub
lished for about two years, then sold it and engaged in the
mercantile business. He afterwards, in 1840, started a new
paper styled the Porter, subsequently Re-Porter, with which
he remained connected for several years. In 1859 he pur
chased the Luzerne Federalist and continued the paper,
until failing health compelled him to turn it over to other
hands. He returned to Towanda in i860 to spend the residue of
his days. In all his varied positions before the public Mr.
Goodrich proved himself worthy, of the confidence, and
secured the esteem of his fellow citizens. But few men
have filled offices of public trust so long, and retired, finally,
with a deeper or more general respect and esteem of all
parties, than he.
As a writer he was clear, logical and weighty. He seldom
employed irony, but when he did, it was with a withering
effect. Argument was his forte. In whatever theme he
chose for discussion his language was found to be chaste
and his thoughts pure. In all his relations he was the same
upright, generous, high-minded gentleman. He was not an
avaricious lover of money, nor was he exacting with others,
to subserve his own prospects ; rather, he found pleasure
in contributing to the happiness of others. In religion, his
profession was not merely oi form or impulse ; but his was
the religion of the understanding as well as of the heart.
Mr. Goodrich was twice married and was most happy in

256
his connubial relations. He was a kind and indulgent
father and a tender and loving husband. His demise
occurred at Towanda June, 1862. The large concourse at
the funeral testified the respect and esteem in which he was
held, and the sympathy that was felt for the bereaved."
He left two sons, E. O'Meara, of whom a sketch is herein
given, and Hiram, who was an engineer upon the North
Branch Canal and Assistant Surveyor of the port of Phila
delphia, under his brother. The father and sons are buned
in the family lot in Riverside Cemetery.

HON. JAMES TRACY HALE,
Who attained the honorable distinction of Judge, was born
upon the patrimonial estate in Towanda township, Oct. 14,
1 810. He was a most assiduous youth, apd in early boy
hood became passionately fond of books, improving every
spare moment in earnest study. He read only useful and
instructive books and papers, and these he remembered.
Though his educational advantages were limited, before he
was one-and-twenty he had acquired a wonderful fund of
knowledge. He taught school several terms, and wrote in
the Prothonotary's office as he could get occasional jobs.
When he was but fifteen years of age the death of his
father devolved the chief support of the family upon him,
a relation which he discharged most faithfully. Having
concluded to make his profession, he entered upon his stu
dies under the direction of his uncle, Elias W. Hale, of Lew-
i.stown. Pa., and was admitted to the bar of Miffiin county in
February, 1832. In 1835 he moved to Bellefonte, where he
married the same year Miss Jane W. Huston, daughter of
Hon. Chas. Huston, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court
of Pennsylvania. He rose rapidly in the profession, and soon
occupied a leading and prominent position at the bar. In
his maiden efforts a good story is told of him. He had a
case before Judge Burnside. A point of law was in ques
tion. The judge decided against him, young Hale, how-

- 257
•ever, persisting that he should be sustained. Finally, tha
judge turned aside and remarked sneeringly " that he had
forgotten more law than the young man had ever known."
Meeting the rebuke calmly, .young. Hale addressed " his
Honor " very moderately, saying : " True, Judge, that is the
fiult we find ; you have forgotten too much." Turning to
the law and reading to the Court, the young man made his
point SO' clear that he changed the opinion of the judge.
He was engaged in the trial of all the principal /and cases
tried in the several courts of Miffiin, Clearfield, Centre,
Juniata and Clinton counties until April, i85i,when he was
appointed President Judge of what is now the twenty-fifth
judicial district, to fill a vacancy.
He held the position only until Dec. 185 1. But he dis
charged the duties with such dispatch, ability and impar
tiality, that he achieved a most excellent reputation as a
jurist. He resumed his practice on retiring from the bench,
and continued it until about 1856, when other enterprises
engrossed his attention to the exclusion to a great extent of
his professional business. He embarked his means, indus-
.try, energy and financial skill in the construction of the
Tyrone and Clearfield Railroad, of which he was president
for four years. He carried the road through the financial
crisis of 1857, notwithstanding great difficulties and embar
rassments, completing it and putting it into running order
about 1859. It remains a monument to the enterprise,
energy, perseverance, and skill of Judge Hale, more dura
ble than granite.
Judge Hale was an ardent Whig in politics, and was a
successful advocate of the principles of his party and_ a
popular stump speaker. When that party gave way to the
Republican organization he united with the latter, and in
1858 was elected to Congress from the i8th Congressional
District. He was re-elected in i860, and again in 1862, in
the latter year being presented as " the people's candidate,"
receiving more votes than both his Democratic and Repub
lican opponents combfhed. Being in Congress when the
(JJ)

258
dark clouds of disunion began to gather, and not being an
extremist, he was made a member of the celebrated Peace
Commission, which proved fruitless of results in trying to
avert war. He retired frorn Congress in March, 1865,, and
immediately resumed his professional calling. So desirable
were his services and so extensive was his practice, that he
was compelled to refuse many desirable cases offered him.
Judge Hale was a pleasing man and a sound and logical de
bater. After a brief illness he died at his home in Belle
fonte on the 6th of April, 1865. His wealth amounted to
' over half a million. He inherited the homestead and for
many summers spent his vacations there

EDWARD OVERTON, .
The subject of this sketch was born in Clitheroe, Lincoln
shire, England, Dec. 30, 1795. Early in life he received a
good English and classical education, and by the assistance
ofhis uncle, Giles Blaisdell, an eminent English lawyer, was
prepared, at the age of sixteen, to commence the study of
law, and shortly after was articled to him for five years as 3
student under his instruction, the articles of enrollment being
recorded in the King's Bench, with a stamp duty of one
hundred pounds sterling. At the age of twenty he emi
grated to America, first coming to Wilkes-Barre, Pa., where
very soon after he was admitted to the Court of Common
Pleas of the State. He had naturally a legal mind, and in
an examination made by Judges Gibson and Burnside and
Garrick Mallery, be showed a sound knowledge of the prin
ciples ofthe law.
When about twenty-two years of age he opened an office
for the practice of his profession at Tioga Point (Athens),
where he remained three years, then came to Towanda
where he spent the balance of his life. Soon after taking up
his residence in Towanda he was admitted to practice in the
Supreme Court of the State.
Now fully established in a profession for life, and one to

250
which his natural ability seemed adapted, he gradually gained
prominence in the courts where he pleaded and rose to the
foremost ranks of the bar of the county and State as an at
torney and counsellor.
Beginning the practice of the law in the early days of the
history of the county, he was very notably identified with
the litigation respecting land titles growing out of the Con
necticut claims covering the northern part of Pennsylvania,
and the imperfect surveys of State claimants, in which liti
gation he was foremost as a land lawyer.
Politically Mr. Overton was originally a Whig, but upon
the formation of the Republican party adopted its principles
and became an ardent supporter of its platform. He was
never solicitous for public office, neither did he shrink from
bearing with integrity any responsibility placed upon him.
Mr. Overton did not confine his business to the bar alone.
In 1852-53 he induced John Ely and Edward M. Davis, of
Philadelphia, to join with him in the purchase of twenty
thousand acres ofthe Barclay lands. Having effected a pur
chase, the result was the organization of the Barclay coal
company. Seeing that but little could be accomplished
without a railroad, Mr. Overton exerted his influence and
succeeded in the building of the Barclay road, and was made
its first President — -a capacity in which he continued to act
for several years, until he sold his interest in the company.
In addition to his interests as herein stated, he besides owned
several thousand acres of land in the townships of Burling
ton, Herrick, Pike and Overton — -the last named being so
called in his honor.
In his old' age Mr. Overton wisely, enjoyed the comforts
which his fine fortune afforded him.
Through life he took a, deep interest in matters relating
to church and school, contributing largely in the building
of church edifices, and the forwarding of any enterprise
promoting the education of the rising generation and the
establishment of good society. From the time of his first
settlement in Towanda village he was a member of the

I'GO-
Presbyterian Church, and he always showed a fervent attach
ment to its articles of faith and. laws of government.
Throughout its history this church has been greatly in
debted to him for generous and unceasing counsel and help,
and all the schemes of benevolence of the Presbyterian
Church in the United States have found in him a liberal
benefactor. Another prominent characteristic was his open
hand for the poor and distressed.
To eminent legal ability and learning he added in early
fife the refinement and amenity of poetic and social culture.
During his long and varied career he was signally successful
in maintaining a high reputation for honor and honesty.
He was the son of Thomas Overton, referred to in this
volume, and one of the early settlers of Ulster, who was a
raan of much enterprise and activity, and for many years
was agent for Carroll and other land owners. For many
years he kept a public house. He died suddenly and is
buried at Ulster.
In the year 1818 Mr. Overton married Miss Eliza, daugh
ter of Henry Clymer, of Philadelphia, and grand-daughter
of Hon. Geo. Clymer, one of the signers ofthe Declaration
of Independence, one of the framers of the Constitution of
the United States, and the first President of the Academy
of Fine Arts of Pennsylvania. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Over
ton were born : Mary (Mrs. James Macfarlane), Giles Blais
dell, Henry Clymer, Louisa, (Mrs. James Ward), Francis
Clymer (deceased), Edward Jr., and Eliza, the wife of evan-
eglist E. P. Hammond.
Giles B. is a resident of Olean, N. Y., and is engaged in
the coal business.
Henry C. is a farmer at Cobden, 111.
Hon. Edward, Jr., is a resident of his native town. He
chose law as his profession and was admitted to practice in
the courts of Bradford county in 1858, and subsequently in
the courts ofthe counties of Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga,
Lycoming, Luzerne, and Wyoming. In 1867 he was also
admitted to the U. S. Circuit and District Courts of the

261
Western District of Pennsylvania, and about the same time
to the Supreme Court ofthe State. Mr. Overton is an abls
lawyer, and is not only one of the foremost at the Bradford
county bar, but ranks well with the best in the State. In
' 1878 he formed a co-partnership with John F. Sanderson,
Esq., one ofthe most thorough and sound young law3'ers in
Pennsylvania. The firm have been eminently successful,
and have tried not a few ofthe " big cases " in the Supreme
and District Courts. From 1866 to 1877 Mr. Overton was
Register in Bankruptcy, and during that time v/as never re
versed. During the dark days of disunion he was one of the first
to respond to his country's call, and upon the organization
ofthe 50th regiment P. V., he was chosen Major and before
the close of his enlistment made Lieutenant-Colonel. He
did gallant service and was severely wounded at the battle
of Antietam. After the war he returned to Towanda and
resumed the practice of his profession. In 1876 he was
elected to Congress from the 15th District, and re-elected in
1878, proving an able and useful Representative of the
people.

JOHN C. ADAMS.
The subject of this notice was born in New Marlborough ,
Berkshire county, Mass., Aug. 28, 1812. He was the eldest
son of a family of four children of Charles Adams, of New
England birth and of English descent. His early life was
spent on the farm with his father, securing only the benefit
of a common-school education, but this so impressed his
mind with the importance of an education that, while in the
field at work, or during any leisure time, he was a constant
student, and very early in life gave unmistakable evidence
of the possession of much intellectual ability. While yet
in his teens he became a teacher, and taught school during
winters, and with his earnings spent his time in school dur
ing summers. When twenty years of age he began the

262
-<;tudy of the law with Benjamin Sheldon, father of Judge
Sheldon, of Illinois. Afterwards he came to Barrington
and continued his studies, and at about the age of twenty-
two came to Wilkes Barre, and entered the law office of
Judge Cunningham, but finished his study of the law with
the late Judge Wilmot and was admitted to practice in the
Supreme Court of the State at the age of twenty-four. He
at once opened an office, in partnership with Edward Over
ton of Towanda, with whom he continued in that relation
for several years. He was afterwards a partner with Judge
Mercur and others, and continued the practice of his profes
sion in Towanda until his death, June i8, 1866. From the
time of his admission to the bar up to the tiriie of his death
he occupied a high position among his professional breth
ren, and as a forcible and persuasive speaker, especially in
cases where the sympathies of a jury could be reached, he
was unequaled by any member of the Bradford county bar.
His plain Anglo-Saxon vocabulary conveyed his meaning
unmistakably, and at such times it was a frequent occurrence
for both jury and bystanders to be bathed in tears. Both
in his professional and private business he was scrupulously
honest, always regarding the oath he had taken " to behave
himself in his office as attorney with all good fidelity to the
Court as to the client." His honesty was not of the. kind
that it is a shame for a man to be without, but was iron-
wrought in his very being, and for him to have done a dis
honorable act would have been doing violence to every in
clination of his nature. And then, again, his warm, sym
pathetic nature led him at all times to discourage litigation,
and his energies were directed, first, to preventing it by
painstaking and careful preparation of the papers he was
called upon to write, and the admirable manner in which he
executed the other business entrusted to him ; and in case
litigation had been or was about to be commenced, he bent
all his energies to bring about, if possible, an amicable set
tlement. Few men leave a brighter professional record be
hind them. Politically Mr. Adams was a Whig and was one

263
of the leaders of that party in the county. He was placed'
in nomination by that party, at different times, as its can
didate for Representative and Congress, but being in the
minority party was always defeated. However, his name
always gave strength to the ticket. Upon the organization
of the Republican party he remained with the " Silver
Grays," supporting Fillmore in 1856 and Bell and Everett
in i860.
In the year 1837 he married Miss Lucy M. Pynchon, of
Great Barrington, Mass. To Mr. and Mrs. Adams were
born five children : John, residing at Towanda ; Henry M.,
Lieutenant of Co. I, 57th P. V., and killed before Petersburg ;
Samuel C, engaged in the coal business at Syracuse, N. Y.;
Lucy, deceased; Mary E., the wife of Benjamin Maurice.

CHRISTOPHER L. WARD,
The eldest son of William Ward and Sally Briggs, was born
in New Milford, Susquehanna Co., Pa., Oct. 23, 1807. Of
his ancestry on the paternal side, the race is traceable to
English and thence to Norman origin. The first of the
Wards landed in New England in 1640, since which time
different branches of the family have .spread throughout the
Eastern and Middle States. William Ward was a pioneer
into the county of Susquehanna and was a prominent and
useful citizen. The subject of this sketch received the rudi-
diments of an education in such schools as were afforded in
early days. But being possessed of paternal industry, he
steadily pYished his way from these humble beginnings and
became in early life noted for his retiring and studious ways,
'his application to books and thirst for knowledge. Going
to Montrose, he learned the printing trade and in 1831 be
came a partner in and editor of the Susquehanna Register,
in which capacity he continued to act till 1836. In 1831
he was appointed County Treasurer and in 1833 Register and
Recorder. He was President of the Young Men's Temper
ance Union in 1834. In 1837 he was admitted to the bar

264
from the office of Hon. Wm. Jessup, in the practice of the
law, and became subsequentl)' associated with Hon. Benj.
S, Bentley. He was elected a director of the Susquehanna '
Bank in 1837. In 1840 he came to Towanda and purchased
the Tousey residence on Third street, which is now occu
pied by the " Sisters o'" Mercy."
At Towanda Mr. Ward embarked in business with his
customary industry and energy, and took a leading rank as
a liberal-minded, hospitable, charitable and public-spirited
citizen. He acquired considerable property in the town and
in this and neighboring counties, and became agent and at
torney for the Cadwallader lands in Sullivan, and the Car-
roll-Caton lands in Bradford county, besides enjoying nu
merous trusts of minor character. His acquisitions in real
estate extended to North Carolina, Tennessee, and into Illi
nois and New York. In 1853 he was sent on a special mis
sion by Secretary of State Marcy, under President Pierce,
to Mexico on matters relating to the Gadsden Treaty.
About the same time he became counsel for the American
claimants, under the treaty, for indemnity for Mexican in
debtedness, and was largely interested in establishing the
validity of the Garey grant for a railway route across the
isthmus of Tehuantepec. In 1856 he was chairman of the
National Executive Committee in the campaign which re
sulted in the election of Mr. Buchanan. In 1855 ^e was
elected President ofthe Atlantic & Great Western Railway,
and in 1858 proceeded to Europe to negotiate its securities
and enlist foreign investment in the enterprise. This he
succeeded in accomplishing, placing the road on a footing
that subsequently secured its construction. In 1864 he was
chairman of the Democratic State Central Committee. He
was a director and officer of the Towanda Tanning Com
pany and also the Schrader Land Company. Among the
valuable properties acquired by him was what now consti
tutes the township of Ward, in Tioga county, originally 15,-
500 acres, and covering the mines of the Fall Brook Coal
company.

265
In his latter years, much of. his time was employed in
managing systematically his multifarious business affairs,
and in arranging his collection of prints and autographs and
illustrating works of biographical and historical character
contained in his Hbrary. From time to time he interested
himself in and sustained several newspapers — the Patriot and
Union, Harrisburg ; the Baltimore Leader ; the Evening
Press, of Washington, D. C-, latterly combined with the Na
tional Intelligencer, amongst the rest. His collection of rare
books, engravings, autographs and works in every depart
ment of literature and science, arranged in the handsome
library room of " Tredinnock," with its walls hung with
trophies of feudal times, and historical reliques, American
and foreign, formed a unique assemblage of objects of art,
history and entertainment, and gave evidence of a range of
information and a vast mastery of detail seldom met with in
a man of active and constant business habits and pursuits.
Up to the day of his death Mr. Ward was associated with
almost every prominent enterprise or work of public mo
ment undertaken in the vicinity wherein he had chosen his
last abode. His correspondence and acquaintance with
public men, men of letters, capitalists, and men of profes
sional prominence, was intimate and extensive. He attend
ed almost all the political conventions. State and National,
of his party as a delegate, and took an active and advisory
part in politics, though persistently avoiding public office.
His hand and purse were always at the command ofhis po
litical friends and were freely presumed upon.
Mr. Ward was a gentleman of rare accomphshments and
was ever a prominent and influential citizen. He was twice
married. His first wife, Hannah Raynsford, of Montrose,
bore him two daughters — Ellen, who married Gen. Wm. H.
Miller, of Harrisburg ; Mary, who died when a young lady.
His second wife was Hannah Charlotte Porter (sister of
Henry C), of Waterbury, Conn., who bore him a son, Henry,
who is still living.
Mr. Ward died May 14, 1870, and is buried at "River
side." (KK)

266

ELIJAH A. PARSONS
Was born in Columbia township, Bradford county, July 12,
1820. His father, Daniel K. Parsons, was the son of Deacon
Eli Parsons, a Revolutionary soldier, who emigrated from
the State of Connecticut with his family to Columbia in the
year 1799.
Elijah's early days were spent in the usual routine of a
farmer's boy.
In 1835 he came to Towanda to live with his uncle, E. S.
Goodrich, who was then conducting the Northern Banner,
and to learn the printing art. He remained with Mr. Good
rich for about three years, working in the office and attend
ing school alternately. He then went to work upon the
Bradford Argus, which was being published by his brother-
in-law, Dummer Lilley.
In 1839 Mr. Parsons and B. F. Powell bought a half in
terest in the Argus, and Col. Elhanan Smith the balance.
In 1 841 Smith sold to Parsons & Powell, and Powell to Par
sons in 185 I, whereupon the latter became the sole proprie
tor of the paper. Mr. Parsons labored zealously through
his columns for the Whig party, at that time the minority
party ofthe county, until it went out of existence. He next
conducted the Argus as a Republican paper until 1862, when
it withdrew from the Republican cause and supported the
" People's ticket," and finally, in 1864, became a Democratic
organ. In 1866 Mr. Parsons placed his son, E. Ashmun, in charge
ofthe paper, who enlarged it, put in steam power, and oth
erwise improved it.
The Argus has been immutable in its politics, and for
twenty-two years has been the only organ of the Democratic
party in the county. Since the foundation of the Argus
other Democratic papers have sprung up, but existed only.
as an ephemera, owing to the strong Republican majority in
the county. Alone has the pluck of the Messrs. Parsons
fired their Democratic brethren with hope, and finally car
ried them on to victory.

267
The Argus IS a welcome visitor at fifteen hundred fire
sides, and has become an indispensable article. Since Mr.
Parson's advocacy of Democratic principles he has been fair
and consistent, gaining the confidence of his party and re
taining the esteem of his former political associates. But
few men have ever had more friends among the party they
sought to overthrow than "Judge Parsons," His good-na
tured, frank manner is al'ways manifested alike in political
victories and reverses. The " Judge " has been a man of
great industry and has given his undivided attention to the
printing business, being at this time the senior printer in
Northern Pennsylvania.
As a just reward for the services rendered his party, upon
the succession ofthe Democratic administration he was ap
pointed postma.ster at Towanda, and took charge of the office
December i, 1885.
In 1845 ^i"- Parsons was united in marriage with Miss
Ethlin A., daughter of Jesse Brown, of Sheshequin, unto
whom six children have been born, viz; E. Ashmun, Maria,
Matthias W., Mary, Antoinette D. and George F.
The eldest son has for twenty years been the successful
editor and manager of the Argus ; Matthias is a druggist in
New York, and George is a prosperous optician in the same
city. In 1877 Mr. Parsons suffered the loss of his devoted
and loving companion. Looking upon the bright side, with
perfect health, " Judge Parsons " will no doubt live many
years longer to cheer us.

HENRY J. MADILL
Was born March 30, 1829, at Hunterstown, Adams county.
Pa. tlis parents were Scotch-Irish and were born in Ire
land. His father, Alexander Madill, was educated as a phy
sician before emigrating to this country, and came to this
county and located in Wysox township in 1831, where he
practiced medicine for many years.
Henry J. received a liberal education ; he was a student

268
at the " old academy," on State street, while Professors Gunn
and Nash were the instructors ; he also received instruction
from private tutors. He studied law with John C. Adams,
Esq., and was admitted to the bar of Bradford county in
1 85 1, and has practiced his profession since.
He was one ofthe first to answer to the call of President
Lincoln for troops, and upon the arrival of two companies
froiii this county at Harrisburg, and finding that they
could not be received for three months, were mustered into
the U. S. servite for three years, and upon the organization
ofthe regiment he was elected Major of the regiment — the
6th Pa. Reserves — June 22, 1861.
He served with his regiment with distinction until August
30, 1862, when he was appointed Colonel of the 141st Pa.
Vols. Seven companies of this regiment were organized in Brad
ford county, and the selection of Major Madill to command
the regiment was a recognition of his former service and his
fitness to lead the " boys " from Bradford county.
He commanded his regiment during the campaigns of
the Army of the Potomac of 1863 and 1864, and was en
gaged in the great battles at Chancellorsville, Gettysburg,
Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, and the siege of
Petersburg, and at various times was placed in command of
the brigade. He was complimented by his superior ofificers
for his conduct at the battles of Chancellorsville and Gettys
burg. He was brevetted Brigadier-General, Dec. 2, 1864,
and by special order of the President appointed to com
mand a brigade.
He was assigned by General Miles to the command of
the Third Brigade, First Division, Second Corps, and was
wounded while leading his brigade at Sutherland Station,
Va., April 2, 1865. ^He was brevetted Major-General of
Volunteers, March 15, 1865. During his four years' ser
vice he was in over 20 battles, had six horses shot under
him, and was wounded three times — June 16 and 18, 1864,
at Petersburg, Va.,^ and April 2, 1865, at Sutherland Station,
Va.

269
In battle he was brave and fearless, and always ready to
lead his men. The officers and men of his command loved
and respected him, and were ready to follow wherever he
led them.
At the battle of Chancellorsville, when his men were
driven back and the color-bearer had been shot, he picked
up the flag, faced towards the enemy and began singing —
" Rally round the flag, boys.
Rally once again !" —
under a storm of lead and shell, around which the men ral
lied and repelled the charge of the enemy. When at the
battle of Gettysburg, July 2, 1863, General Sickles appealed
to Colonel Madill, " for God's sake to hold on a little
longer!" the Colonel sobbingly replied, "Where are my
men ?" he having but twenty left of the two hundred he took
into the battle.
" In camp he secured obedience without resort to cruel
punishments, and at all times was watchful for the interest
of his men. Although fearless of danger himself, he never
exposed his men needlessly, and never sought a fight to
promote his own interest." Several times he was offered
promotion if he would attempt a desperate charge, to which
he replied, " If I must gain a star at the expense ofthe lives
of my men, I will never have one."
He resumed his law practice after he was mustered out of
the service. He was elected to the office of Register, Re
corder, and Clerk of Orphans' Court of Bradford county in
1866 and served for three years. _ He served one term in the
House of Representatives of Pennsylvania, having been
elected in 1879.
He attained the highest rank of any soldier from Brad
ford county in the War of the Rebellion, and was one of the
bravest and most fearless of officers in the army, and is high
ly esteemed by all the ex-soldiers for his fearless advocacy
of their rights since the war, as well as his soldierly advice
for -their welfare, given at camp-fires and reunions.

270
JOHN LAPORTE
Was born in Asylum on the patrimonial estate, and was the
only son of Bsrtholomew Laporte, one of the French refu
gees from the proscriptions of the French Revolution of
1798. Bartholomew was a sailor, and on his return to Cadiz
from a certain voyage learned of the condition of things in
France, and at once sailed for America. He married a
daughter of Maj. Oliver Dodge, ^ Revolutionary veteran.
John's early life was .spent in farming. Politics had a great
fascination for him, and as soon as old enough he took an
active hand on the Democratic side of the house, and allied
with General McKean. He represented the county in the
State Legislature from 1829 to 1832, and was Speaker of
the House in the year last named. In 1834 he was elected
to Congress, and in 1837 was appointed an Associate Judge
of the county and held the office continuously till 1845. At
the expiration of his term of office as Judge, he was ap
pointed Surveyor-General by Gov. Shunk, and held the
office for six years (till 185 1). Judge Laporte remained
with the Democratic party until 1855, when he assisted in
the formation of the Republican, and remained loyal to its
principles till the time of his death in 1862. In about 1 850
he came to Towanda, engaged in the banking business, and
spent his closing days. Judge Laporte was a man of ability
and integrity and in his day stood among the foremost in
the county. He was twice married. His first wife was
Matilda, daughter of Dr. Jabez Chamberlain, who bore him
Hon. Bartholomew of Asylum ; Elizabeth (Mrs. C. F.
Welles) deceased ; Samuel McKean of Towanda. For his
second wife he married the widow of Wm. Brindle, nee
Eliza Caldwell. A daughter Eliza (Mrs. John R. Glover)
was born unto them, (now dead).

ELNATHAN O'MEARA GOODRICH,
The eldest son of Elisha S. and Achsah Parsons Goodrich,
was born jn Columbia township, this county, June 23, 1824.

271
When about six years of age his parents removed to Towan
da, which place he ever after made his home. Be
fore he had attained his majority he was associated with hi,-^
father in the publication of the Bradford Reporter, and in
1846 became sole proprietor ofthe paper, ;md continued its
chief edftor until the time ofhis demise. Mr. Goodrich was
born, not made, an editor. He was a graceful, easy but pun
gent writer; honest in his convictions, fearless and indepen
dent in expressing his sentiments, and his paper has wielded a
powerful influence and received the hearty endorsement of
its patrons, while commanding the respect of its opponents.
In addition to his gifts as an editor and writer, he possessed
exquisite mechanical taste and skill, as the neat typographi
cal appearance of the Reporter, which bore the impress of
his genius in that direction, gave abundant evidence. In
politics he carried the same justness and honor that "charac
terized him in all othe'r relations of life. Men felt that they
had to do with a just and true man, whom no interest noj
prejudice could induce to do a conscious, deliberate wrong.
It has been remarked by an -old friend that in politics Mr,
Goodrich was always in favor of the open, hon
orable course ; he wanted no concealment, no
tricks; what was worth fighting for, in his judgment,
was worth a fair, manly battle. Hence, in his hands
the Reporter became a great power. It had much to do
with the success of the Republican party in this county. It
fell into line at the fitst bugle-call, and always stood in the
front rank of the battle. In the Northern Tier — among the
followers of David Wilmot — it occupied the first place of
conspicuity and influence. In all home politics men waited
anxiously to hear what the Reporter had to say. It was a
necessary sequence that honor and office should wait upon
'such gifts Snd influence. Originally a Democrat he drifted
into the free-soil current in 1848, but it was not until 1855
that he severed forever his connection with the party of his
youthful devotion. It was a great risk, but he assumed it
cheerfully because of principle, and subsequent events vin-

272
dicated his sagacity. In union with such Democrats as
David Wilmot, Ulysses Mercur, and John Laporte, he took
a public stand against the Kansas-Nebraska bill, and in 1855
was a delegate to the convention at Pittsburgh which or
ganized the National Republican party. Thus he became
affiliated from the beginning with the Republican party and
devoted to its success. All his time and talents were given
to, the cause. So, reasonably, the Republicans of the
county felt that they owed him a debt of gratitude, and
hence in i860 wasmominated for Prothonotary over a faith
ful and popular incumbent. Party feeling ran high at that
time, and there were special complications within the Re
publican party of this county, but Mr. Goodrich was elected
in spite of all difficulties; and before his term had expired
so popular had he become that he was unanimously re
nominated and triumphantly re-elected. This was a great
compliment, and was deserved by the patience and courtesy
of the man who forebore to speak ill of his most unfair
opponents. On the inauguration of General Grant in 1869
he was appointed Surveyor of Customs for the Port of Phil
adelphia, and was twice re-appointed and had he lived
a month longer he would have held the office for twelve
years. Such a long incumbency proves a high order of
business capacity and a high degree of rectitude. A few
years ago a Congressional committee examined the business
of the, office and highly commended its efficiency and cor
rectness. He passed a severe ordeal with an untarnished
reputation. In truth, the abilities and character of Mr. Goodrich were
such that he could not but succeed in whatever he under-
¦took. He was scrupulously true and honest; he had the
power to adapt himself to any circumstances ; what he did
he did promptly and thoroughly. His good name was of
far more value in his estimation than any possible emolu
ments or gains. And his sound judgment and steady
nerves were an unfailing source of success. His career
illustrates the truth that success is in the man, not in his
circumstances.

273
There was no good cause — no public interest — no local
advantage, which he did not favor and promote. His hand
was always open to the needy.. He was always ready to
encourage the struggling. The church upon which he
attended found in him at all times a ready and generous
helper ; her ministers could always count upon his faithful
friendship. All who were ever engaged in his service bear
Vi'itness to his kindness, his consideration, and his helpful
sympathy. In the public interests of Towanda he always
showed himself a liberal-minded citizen and was frequently
called to fill offices of trust in the borough. In especial, he
manifested interest and pride"^ in the fire department. His
coolness, energy and strength well fitted him to be a leader
in times and perils of fire ; it, was only the recognition of a
natural leadership that placed him first on the list of Chief
Engineers. Socially, Mr. Goodrich was naturally of a retiring,
diffident disposition, but his friendships were real, strong
and enduring. Those who knew him well only could ap
preciate his worth. He was singularly free from hypocrisy
and affectation, and it is highly complimentary to his mem
ory that friends once attached to him were never lost. They
relied upon his fidelity and wisdom, and were never disap
pointed. Throughout the State he had a wide acquaintance,
and was always influential in the councils and conventions
of his party. His death, which occurred Jan. 28, 1881,
leaves a void that will be felt for years. But his memory
will survive, and his deeds of kindness^ and love live after
him. May those who take his place in the relations of
business and politics, be actuated by the same inspirations
and aspirations ! At the age of twenty-one INjIr. Goodrich
was united in marriage with Miss Susanna O'Hara, of
Binghamton, who with two daughters survive him to
mourn their irreparable loss.

HON. JOSEPH POWELL,
Son of Hon. Joseph C. and Selina Phillips Powell, was born
(LL)

274
in Towanda in 1828. He was reared upon his father's farm
in North Towanda, and was given a common school and
academic education. At the age of 18 he entered upon the
mercantile pursuits as a clerk in the store of Thomas Elliott
and in 1852 began business for himself, in which he has
been eminently successful — that of general merchandising.
In 1866 he became connected with the purchase of coal and
timber lands in Bradford county, and as treasurer of the
company managed its concerns. • Upon the organization of
the Towanda Tanning Company in 1866 he was made its
Treasurer and remained with the business for several years.
In 1863, for the convenience of the general public, the First
National Bank of Towanda was organized, Mr Powell,
being one of the original stockholders. He was elected
President in 1870, to fill a vacancy caused by the death of
E. H. Smith, and has remained "in the position ever since.
In all these varied pursuits he has been uniformly success
ful, bringing to them the genius of common sense, intelli
gence and sound business - principles. Mr. Powell is no
politician, and has never sought office. He took issue with
and separated from the Republican party on its reconstruc
tion policy, and in 1874, without his knowledge and despite
his declination, he was nominated for Congress by the Dem^-
ocrats of his district and elected in the face of a heavy Re
publican majority. In 1876 he was re-nominated, but owing
to the overwhelming Republican majority in the district was
defeated. From the fact ol" his popularity, with a view of
winning in the contest of '83, he was chosen by the Demo
cratic State Convention as their candidate for State Treas
urer, but was again defeated, the Republican majority being
too great to overcome. The Democrats having won in the
national contest of '84, upon their distribution ofthe federal
offices Mr. Powell was tendered the place of Deputy Col
lector of the Port of Philadelphia, which he accepted, and
December i, 1885, assumed his duties. Mr. Powell is a
pleasant and social gentleman of dignified manners, popular
with all classes. He was united in marriage, in 1859,

275

with a step-daughter of Hon. H. W. Tracy. Four daugh
ters and one son complete the family.

ORRIN D. BARTLETT
Was born in Berkshire county, Mass., Aug. 30, 18 14. His
lineage has been given in a preceding chapter. At the age
often years he came to Bradford county, with his father's
family, which he has ever since made his home. While
living in the East he had enjoyed the advantages of good
schools, and was an advanced pupil, for the times, when he
left the " Old Bay State." However, he pursued his studies
and gathered such new ideas as were advanced by the peda
gogues of Towanda sixty years ago, then went to Homer,
N. Y., and completed his'schooling at the Cortland Academy.
At the age of seventeen, he took a position as clerk with
Thomas Elliott. After remaining here for about a year, he
went (1832) to Wilkes-Barre, engaged in the mercantile
trade, and returned to Towanda in the fall of 1833, where he
soon after re-engaged in the same business. He became a
prominent merchant, and for many years did business on
the ground now occupied by the First National Bank and
C. P. Welles's store. About 1861 he sold out his store, and
purchased the foundry originally started by Enos Tomp
kins. He improved and enlarged the facilities and erected
the buildings which are now occupied by the Eureka Mfg.
Co. Since quitting the latter business Mr. Bartlett has been
largely engaged in life and fire insurance, having been a spe
cial traveling agent and adjuster for several years.
Mr. Bartlett has been an active, 'enterprising man, and has
done much for the prosperity of the town. He has always
taken a commendable pride in educational matters, and was
a liberal contributor, before he had attained his majority,
toward the building ofthe old academy. In supporting the
churches he has been a liberal donor and an active member.
For a number Of years he was prominently connected with
politics, and being thoroughly versed in the issues of the

276
«
day and an easy and pleasing speaker, took an active part
in the Republican campaigns.
Mr. Bartlett is a man of fine intelligence, a good conver
sationalist and litterateur. He has been twice married. His
first wife was Mary, daughter of Dr. John N. Weston, a
most estimable lady. After the death of " Mary Weston,"
he married Miss Sarah F. Tracy, of Wilkes-Barre, whose
death he also mourns. His children are Franklin W., an
Episcopal clergyman, rector of Grace Church, Syracuse, N.
Y. ; Henry A., physician at Sugar Run, Pa. ; Charles G., re
siding at Pittsburgh ; Mary F, the wife of E. O. Macfarlane,
of Towanda; Harriet, the wife of Walter G. Tracy, of To
wanda ; and Cora, wife of Norman Eichleberger, residing
at Mansfield, Ohio.

COL. JOHN FOX MEANS
Was born in Towanda village, Oct. 6, 1816, and has always
resided within the borough limits. He was the only child
of William Means, Jr., and Eunice Hewitt. In his boyhood
days he enjoyed the privileges of such schools as were then
afforded. At the age of twenty-one he engaged in the mer
cantile trade in the same store which had been occupied by
his grandfather.
In 1838 he erected a brick building on the opposite
corner and occupied it as a store and dwelling. It was af
terwards enlarged and used as a hotel, being known as the
" Means House," until it was destroyed by fire in 1878
In 1842-43 Mr. Means disengaged in the mercantile busi
ness, and for some years gave attention to lumbering and
farming. He was a contractor upon the North Branch canal
and also upon the Williamsport & Elmira railroad. Upon
the organization of the Towanda Iron. Manufacturing Com
pany he was made its president, and was one of the original
stockholders of the Eureka Manufacturing Company. For
the improvement of the town he has erected a number of
buildings, and some ofthe finest in it.

277
Mr. Means has been somewhat conspicuous in politics-,
always a zealous worker in the Democratic ranks, and in
1845 was elected to the office of Sheriff by his party. In
the several projects for the material prosperity of the town,
he has been a prominent factor and suffered great losses
thereby. He was made Colonel of the Pennsylvania militia,
whence he gets the title by which he is generally ad
dressed. He was joined in marriage with Miss Elizabeth,
daughter of Col. Hiram Mix, in 1835, and their matrimonial
relations proved most pleasant.
Col. Means, though a man of three score and ten, is pos
sessed of strong physical vigor and mental activity. How
ever, he has retired from active life, and usually spends the
winters upon his orange farm in " The Land of Flowers."
He married for his second wife Mrs. Elsie Sherman.

HON. PAUL DUDLEY MORROW
Was born in what is now Wilmot township, Bradford
county, Feb. 17, 1828, and was the fourth son of John and
Sally Horton Morrow of that place. His early life was
spent at home, where in alternate labors of the farm, the
studies of the school-room, and teachings of the home
circle, were laid the foundations of a good physical devel
opment, firm intellectual culture, and high moral character,
which have distinguished him through life.
At the' age of eighteen, at Franklin Academy, in Sus
quehanna county, he began the preparatory course of study,
and in September, 1848, entered the freshman class of Ham
ilton College, and graduated with honor in 1852. In 1879
this institution conferred upon him the degree of LL.D. ,
Previous to entering the academy, and while pursuing his
studie.s, he was engaged in teaching for several terms. In
educational matters he has always taken a deep interest,
and upon the organization of Bradford County Teachers'
Association, he was elected its first Secretary. His wise

counsel and valuable suggestions have been sought and
appreciated by the teachers ofthe county ; and his addresses
Upon educational topics have ever been full of good advice,
love and sympathy for the teacher as well as impressing
him with dignity, importance and value of his work.
Possessing a strong analytical mind, argumentative, and
practical in the ordinary affairs of life, he turned naturally
to the law as his chosen profession, and immediately after
his graduation came to Towanda, and entered the office of
Judge Mercur, as a student- at-law. In September, 1853,
he was admitted to the bar, having studied law extra during
his senior year un.der Dr. Dwight. Entering upon his pro
fession, he found at the bar such men as Elwell, Adams,
Mercur/ and others, who then were eminent in their pro
fession, and doing the principal part ofthe legal business of
the county. To rtiake for himself a place and obtain busi
ness against such competitors required no little ability,
energy and perseverance. He made haste slowly, but made
it a rule to do well whatever he had to do ; and, with an un
yielding integrity of pu'rpose, he attracted attention and won
the confidence ofthe public ; so that in 1856 he was elected
District Attorney. In 1862 he became a law partner of
Judge Wilmot, who then was United States Senator, and
remained with him until he was appointed one of the Judges
of the Court of Claims at Washington. He was subsequently
associated with Henry Peet, Esq., until March, 1865, and then
with Judge Mercur until March, 1870. At this latter date, he
received the appointment of Additional Law Judge of the
13th Judicial District, composed of the counties of Brad
ford and Susquehanna, of which the Hon. F. B. Streeter
was President Judge. Inthe fall of 1870 he was elected
Additional Law Judge for the term of ten years. Under
the new Constitution Bradford and Susquehanna counties
were each made a separate Judicial District, and Judge
Streeter having assigned himself to the latter in 1874^ Judge
Morrow was commissioned President Judge of the Bradford
District, for the remainder of his term. Having proven a

279
wise, painstaking and honorable officer, in 1880 he was re
nominated by the Republicans ofthe county and endorsed
by the Democrats, receiving almost an unanimous election.
Ever since he went upon the bench he has been a hard
worker, painstaking and diligent. Conscientious and up
right in the discharge of his duties, ju.st and correct in his
decisions, he has won the respect and confidence of all.
His official position involves great labor and re.sponsibility.
The business of the courts has been greatly increased, and
occupies all his time. Large interests are involved, ahd, to
say nothing of the physical efforts required, there is a con
stant anxiety and strain ofthe mental faculties. Yet he is
courteous, patient, and willing to hear all that rnay be said
by way of argument or persuasion, but at the same time is
firm and independent, and seems to have but one object in
view, viz : that the right may prevail. He has a well-bal
anced, discriminating mind, and an abiding love of justice.
His sentences are always pronounced with words that are
touching and full of good advice, revealing his true kind
ness of heart and noble manhood.
Politically Judge Mormw was originally an active mem
ber of the Democratic party until 1854, when the Kansas
and Nebraska question led him to cast his lot with the op
position, and became a warm advocate of the principles of
the Republican party. He has stood unswervingly by the
principles of the party which he helped to organize in 1855,
and since his elevation to the bench has worked for its wel
fare as far as consistent with his judicial position.
Judge Morrow is a ready supporter of both church and
school interests, as well as every enterprise looking to the
advancement of literature and the preservation of good
society. In his religious belief, he is in hearty accord with
the Presbyterian Church, without narrowness or bigotry
toward those who may differ from him. Free from ostenta
tion, lie is genial and a warm and true friend.
In June, 1857, he married Miss Harriet, King Pitcher, of
Warren, Bradford county, and to them three children have

280
been born : Henrietta, a graduate of the Female College of
Elmira, now the wife of Judge James T. Hale, of Duluth,
Minn.; John P., graduate of Hamilton College — class of
'84 — law student with Peck & Overton ; Charles S , clerk
in Grain Exchange, Duluth, Minn.
Mrs. Morrow is a woman of rare intellectual and social
culture, to whose kindly sympathies and encouragement her
husband attributes much of his success in life, and whose
genial influence makes home attractive for him, his children
and friends. As a Christian woman, she is active in all the
benevolent enterprises of the church and the Sabbath School.
JAMES MACFARLANE*
Was born at Gettysburg, Pa., Sept. 2d, 181^, and he was
connected with many of the most influential families of the
Cumberland valley. Of robust Scotch-Irish stock, he had
the body as well as mind to accomplish high things, and
both were taxed by constant, concentrated effort. Even on
the street he was busv, and was often noticed stopping to
jot down some memorandum, while in his office he was an
indefatigable worker. He graduated in 1837 from the Penn
sylvania college at Gettysburg, and the same year came to
Towanda as a civil engineer on the North Branch Canal, re
maining here, in Wyoming county, and along the line ofthe
canal, for several years.
From here he went to Carlisle, where he read law with
Judge Gra'nam, and was admitted to the bar in 1845. After
admission he went to New Bloomfield, Perry couifliy, where
he remained in practice for about eight years, serving three
years as District Attorney. It was during his residence
there that he married Miss Mary Overton, daughter of the
late Edward Overton, Sr., who survives him. In 185 1 he
returned to Towanda to practice law, and in 1852 he was
elected District Attorney of this county. He continued to
practice until 1857, when he was made General Superin-
* From R&porter.-Jowrna^,, Oc,t, 15, 1885.

281
tendent of the Barclay Coal Company, a position he held
until 1865, when the Towanda Coal Company was organized.
When that corporation passed into the control of the Erie
Railroad he became the General Sales Agent of the Asso
ciated Blossburg Coal Company, his office being at Roches
ter, Syracuse and Palmira. In 1880 he organized the Long
Valley Coal Company, and developed its mines. A few
months ago he was selected Arbitrator by the Bituminous
Coal Combination, a position for which his legal training,
comprehensive knowledge of coal matters, and excellent
judgment joined to a positive mind, admirably fitted him.
This position he filled to the satisfaction of all concerned
until the combination was broken by the action of the par-
' ties to it, when Mr. Macfarlane returned from Buffalo to his
pleasant Towanda home. Among the positions of trust filled
by him was that of Commissioner ofthe Second Geological
Survey, to which he was appointed by Gov. Hartrgnft, and
which he held at his death.
As an author he had won deserved fame: The " Coal
Fields of America," his most noted work, has had a large
sale in this country and Europe, and is regarded by scien
tists everywhere, as the standard work on the subject. He
was authority on questions of coal deposits, and his services
were in frequent demand by coal operators. He was the
author also of" Geologists' Traveling Hand-book," contain
ing an " American Geological Railway Guide." This book
he had been several years engaged in revising and enlarging,
and on the morning of his death proof was received from
the publishers. He contributed several of the geological
articles in the American Encyclopedia, wrote an article on
the Bituminous Coal Fields of Pennsylvania for Gray's Atlas,
and was a frequent contributor to Science, a well-known sci
entific periodical. He was a Fellow of the American Asso
ciation for the Advancement of Science, and was justly emi
nent for his scientific acquirements. In 1872 the Pennsyl
vania College conferred on him the title of Doctor of Phi
losophy. But his readings and studies were not confined to
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282
scientific subjects alone. He had a wide knowledge of those
matters which are a part of a liberal education, and was a
thoroughly cultured gentleman. To the EvangeUcal Review-
he contributed an article on " The Lost Books of the Old
Testament," and another on " Conversion of Children,"
showing his research in biblical matters and his interest in
the practical problems of Christianity.
Of his Christian life his pastor says: " Elarly in life he
became a professed child of God, and for many years served
as an elder in the Presbyterian Church of Towanda. His
christian life was always sincere, honorable, pure and open.
Intelligent in the doctrines of his church, devoted to her
interests and work, he never failed to stand in his place and
accept the burdens of his profession and office. His sym
pathy could always be relied on for every effort to advance
the cause of religion. He lived in the faith of Jesus Christ,
and he died in that faith. His death was a translation, an
easy going home."
His life, although crowded with work as very few are, was
not given wholly to study and research. The demands of
family and friends were paramount, and work was never so
pressing that he could not put it aside to devote himself to
them. In the social circle he was a leading spirit. His
gentle manners, his ready wit and kindly humor, joined to
a mind stored with riches gathered from every department
of literature, made him the prince of entertainers, and the
best of companions.
In projects tending to the material improvement of our
town he was foremost. It was his far-sighted sagacity that
planned, and his indomitable will that helped to completion
the railroad that tapped the hidden wealth of Barclay Moun
tain. He it was who has done so much since to develop
the coal industry at other points in that region. The
cause of education, religion, every deserving charity, found
in him a liberal patron — a ready and efficient helper. His
hand was in every good work. Very often it was unseen
and unknown, but it was not the less helpful. The latest
act of his life was an act of charity.

283
Beginning at the foot of the ladder, he came, when young,
to Towanda not endowed with the capital of wealth, but
with the capital of brain, with honest intention, a quick eye
for business, a ready hand for his work, and unswerving and
unchangeable integrity. These were the qualities which he
wrought into his accomplishments. He dies, not yet full of
years, but leaving behind more raaterial monuments of his
industry than many great rulers, and more than all else, an
example for the young men of this county which will not
soon be lost He has left us a sign by which men may
conquer and deserve to conquer in the battle of life and win
a victory not for themselves alone, but for their kind.
" His life was gentle; and the elements
So mixed in him, that Nature might stand up
And say to all the world, ' This was a man.' "
Mr. Macfarlane's death occurred at his home in Towanda,
Oct. 1 1, 1885. A widow, three sons and three daughters are
ieft to mourn his loss. The eldest son, Edward 0., is a res
ident of Towanda, and Superintendent of the Long Valley
Coal Mines ; Graham is engaged in the coal business in Vir
ginia; James R., an attorney-at-law, Pittsburgh, Pa.; of the
daughters Ellen is the wife of Wm. Little, of Towanda ;
Mary the wife of E. J. Angle ; Eugenia a student at Vassar
College. MAHLON C. MERCUR
Was born in Towanda, Feb. 6, 18 16. His education was in
part acquired at private schools, the Towanda Academy,
but principally from his father who was a gentleman of rare
literary attainments. In early childhood he was very feeble
but by careful diet and proper out-door exercise, by the
time he ;yas fourteen years of age he had built up an iron
constitution, with which he is still blessed.
When but a mere lad he evinced a strong inclination for
business. At twelve his father gave him a tract of land
which he soon after sold for ^2,000. Such ability had he

284
for business, that when he was sixteen, he took his place
with the men in the buying and shipment of lumber and
looking after its sale. At nineteen he purchased a heavy
stock of goods, continuing the mercantile trade for several
years in conjunction With an extensive lumbering business.
In 1836 a considerable interest was taken in relation to
the opening of new streets in the borough of Towanda,
and Mr. Mercur, then only twenty, and Wm. Elwell were
thought best fitted for this important undertaking, and were
selected Street Commissioners, being by virtue of their
office, ex-officio overseers of the poor. They were wise
servants, ever guardful of the interests pf the borough, and
were the first to make marked public improvements. They
levied the first poor tax of the borough of Towanda. In
1838 Mr. Mercur was elected Councilman, an ofifice which
he held for several years, and it being the only office he
would accept, till 1877, when he was appointed Deputy
Collector of U. S. Revenues, a capacity in which he served
for seven years. Having made a contract to furnish the en
tire hewed and sawed lumber required for the building of
the bridges of the Cattawissa railroad, the greater portion
ofthe spring and summer of 1836 was absorbed in making
deliveries. At the end of about four years he quitted the mercantile
business, then in company with J. C. Adams engaged in the
buying and selling of real estate. In 1844 he purchased the
interest of his brother, James, in the firm of H. S. & J. W.
Mercur, still continuing in the real estate business, erecting
mills, improving farms, and putting up buildings upon them.
His business grew rapidly and in 1852 he sold his interest
in his store to his brother and gave his whole attention to
outside matters.
He erected the first planing mill in this vicinity, and by
the employment of a large number of laborers and the
erection of numerous buildings in Towanda and the sur
rounding townships, he did not a little in promoting the
business prosperity of the county.

285
The great fire of March, 1847, having destroyed" the
Court House and the greater portion of the business part
of Towanda, Mr. Murcur believing that the future business
security of the town required a better class of buildings
than heretofore had, erected a permanent three-story brick
block on the southeast corner of Main and Pine streets,
now occupied by Stevens & Long, and others. At that
time this was the best business block in the county and
largely influenced the quality of blocks thereafter erected
in the town.
After the North Branch Canal had been sold by the State
to an inactive company, Mr. Mercur was induced in con
nection with some of his personal friends to buy a majority
of the canal stock. Immediately after the purchase it was
arranged that he be Secretary, General Superintendent, and
general agent of the company, witfi full power to make any
business arrangements necessary to encourage transporta
tion on the canal, and to settle and adjust all damage claims
against the company. Damage to the amount of ;g500,000
was claimed by those injured by the canal, but through Mr.
Mercur's fairness and business sagacity he secured a settle
ment with nearly all the claimants at a cost in the aggre
gate of ;g40,000. All along the line farmers were hostile to
the canal, but within a year after Mr. Mercur's management
there was not a farmer, through whose land it passed from
Wilkes-Barre to the State Line, but what considered it a
public benefit. Finding the business of the canal too small
to pay expenses he made arrangements with the W> oming.
West Branch, Pennsylvania, Union, Schuylkill and Tide
Water Canals, giving the North Branch Company authority
to ship lumber and all kinds of farm produce from the North
Branch Canal over the several lines to market, at such rates
of toll as in his judgment the shippers could afford to pay,
giving' through coupon clearances from the point of shipy-
ment to destination. This greatly benefitted farmers and
lumbermen, but the amount shipped was still insufficient to-
make the canal a paying .enterprise. Mr. Mercur now de-

286
termined that a coal tonnage should be carried over the
canal, and the point was gained through his persistenc)' and
shrewdness. A combination was formed in the shipment of
coal with the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad ;
also the Williamsport & Elmira Railroad, which proved
profitable to the three shipping companies, remaining un
broken for several years, and being a great advantage to
the consumers. In order to carry out the agreement made
with the railroad companies Mr. Mercur was required to
take the trade allotted to the North Branch Canal himself, and
supply the division north of Wilkes-Barre with boats. This
was a herculean undertaking and a great risk to run, yet
Mr. Mercur was not daunted, and by working night and day
and watching his business closely made a fortune in what
others of more capital did not dare venture.
The canal now being in a good condition, accommodating
the I local trade, Mr. Mercur felt that a railroad up the
Susquehanna valley would be a great conven
ience to the people, which ought in his mind to be built by
the canal interests. Accordingly, he went to Harrisburg
and drew up a bill to enable the company " to change their
name, style and title from the North Branch Canal Company
to the Pennsylvania and New York Canal and Railroad Com
pany, with authority to construct and operate a single or
double track railroad upon, along or near the tow-path or
berme bank of the canal, from the county of Luzerne to the
New York State line in the county of Bradford — the rail
road company being compelled to keep open the canal and
subject to all the obligations and liabilities of every kind of
the North Branch Canal Co." The foregoing bill was drawn
up by Mr. Mercur without consultation with any one. See
ing the leading members of both branches of the Legisla
ture, by his influence with them certain rules were sus
pended, the bill introduced in the forenoon, and before eight
o'clock in the evening passed through both Houses and was
signed by the Governor. This was the most rapid legisla
tion of which we have any record. Mr. Mercur thought he

287
had now accomplished a two-fold measure — the construc
tion of a railroad and the perpetuity of the canal, thus se
curing in the best possible way the business interests of the
county. However, it must be remembered that subsequent
ly the railroad company took advantage of the measure, slip
ped a bill through the Legislature, which virtually abandoned
the canal.
For some years Mr. Mercur, in company with J Langdon
and A. Tompkins, carried on a very heavy coal trade between
the Pittston and Kingston mines and Baltimore, having 1200
cars alone marked in his name. When he sold his stock in
the canal company he also sold his coal mines, boats, El
mira and Chicago real estate and coal business, and there
after devoted his time and money to the completion of the
Sullivan & Erie Railroad and improvements in and about
Towanda. Some years before this time,- Mr. Mercur was
induced by some personal friends in Philadelphia to join
them in obtaining a charter and building a street railway
over Fourth and Eighth streets in that city. Through his
energy and sagacity a charter was obtained, and the roads
completed and put in running order in a short time. For
several years he remained a heavy stockholder and director
in the company.
During the Rebellion his business interests would not
permit his entering the service, but he most generously aid
ed the county with his means. At a low rate of interest he
loaned the county the money necessary to pay her volun
teers, and to whomsoever asked his aid in procuring volun
teers in the formation of companies. Indeed, any one in
the service who needed money for the support of his family
always obtained aid from Mr. Mercur, who would never ac
cept repayment from the widow, should her husband lose his
life while in his country's service. When the draft was made,
although by age exempted, he sent a representative to the
army and kept one there till the close of the war.
After the war Mr. Mercur, in company with Col. Welles,
purchased some three or four thousand acres of coal land in

288
Sullivan county, and in company with Geo. D. Jackson and
M. Meylert, organized a coal and railroad company, putting
in five thousand-acres of coal land for capital stock, M. C.
Mercur being president of the company. An unfortunate
contract was made for the building of the road, which was
finally thrown back upon the hands of the company, who
were compelled to finish it themselves. All the moneys
were advanced by Mr. Mercur or borrowed on his endorse
ment. Finally, some Boston parties acquired an interest in
the stock and induced Mr. Mercur to largely endorse the com
pany's paper. Circumstances afterwards proved that their
scheme was to injure his credit, break down the company and
buy in the stock for a trifle. His unfortunate confidence in the
Boston men co.st him property to the amount of ;g 1,050,000.
However, this enormous loss did not discourage him, and he
is still fighting actively the battle of life. " Mercur's Block "
which will long remain as a proof of his enterprise, was
erected by him, almost the entire material in it having been
manufactured on and from his possessions.
Mr. Mercur has always taken an active part in politics,
ever working zealously for his friends and the welfare of his
party. His purse has always been open to aid inthe cam
paigns of his party, no man in the county having contributed
more liberally than he. Originally he was a Whig and re
mained with that organization till he became one of the char
ter members of the Republican party. At the age of twenty
he was made chairman ofthe Whig county convention, and
in 1844 was a delegate from this Congressional district to
the National Convention which nominated Henry Clay for
the Presidency. He was a warm friend and supporter of
Thos. M. T. McKennan (father ofthe " Tariff of '42 ") for the
Vice-Presidency, and exercised a great influence for him in
the South and South-west. Unfortunately, the Whig party
did not accept Mr. McKennan but nominated F. T. Freling-
huysen, the result being the defeat of the ticket. For many
years Mr. Mercur has frequently been a delegate at the
county and State conventions, and always had a great influ
ence.

289
He has been (and still is) a man of wonderful activity, ex
cellent judgment, rare comprehension and concentration of
mind in business matters, venturesome and full of pluck.
He is gifted with genuine sociability, always having been a
gentleman to lord and peasant alike. His great pride has
been in the upbuilding ofhis native town, in which his time
and means have never been spared. He is a model of un
selfish nature, ever aiding the deserving.
Though Mr, Mercur has been a man of extensive and
active business, he found time by the midnight lamp to ac
quire a general and literary knowledge.
For many years he . has been a regular communicant of
the Episcopal Church and a liberalsupportrft of it. Upon the
organization ofthe church at Towanda, in 1833, he was one
of its first vestrymen and wardens.
In 1839 he was united in marriage with Miss Helen,
daughter of Col. Joseph Kingsbury, v}^ho bore them a son,
Mahlon M., who served in the army with Banks, and died in
Texas after the war Mrs. Mercur died in 1841, Mr. Mercur
again marrying in 1853 Miss Annie H. Jewett. The chil
dren by his second wife are — Helen, who married Rev. Geo.
H. Rosenmuller, rector ofthe Episcopal church at Niagara
Falls,, N. Y. ; Lillie ; William H., physician and surgeon at
Pittsburgh, Pa. ; Hiram T., in the cotton business in the
South ; Elise; Robe-rt J.

COL. ELHANAN SMITH,
Son of Elhanan W. and Mary Eldridge Smith, was born in
Susquehanna county. Pa. His father was a native of New
London, Conn., where he resided until reaching man's estate,
when he niarried and moved with his young wife to the new
county of Susquehanna. After some years here he moved
into Wyoming county and finally to Towanda in 1840,
where he died in 1884, aged 82 years. Elhanan was edu
cated at the Mannington Boarding School, Susquehanna
county. Pa., and the |Montrose and Cortland Acadeniies. In
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29a
1839 he came to Towanda and entered upon the study of
the law with David Wilmot, and at the same time edited the
Bradford Argus in which he owned a one-third interest.
He completed his studies with Edward Overton and J. C.
Adams and was admitted to practice in the courts of the
county in 1843. Subsequently he was admitted to practice
in the Supreme Court of the State and the courts of' the
counties of Lycoming, Wyoming, Susquehanna, Tioga,
Sullivan and Lackawanna.
Mr. Smith has been interested in a number of important
cases and has especially distinguished himself as a criminal
lawyer. He has been the defendant's attorney in thirteen
cases of murder, in the first degree, and did not lose one of
them. As to his ability in this direction we quote from the
compliments of another: " Mr. Smith is a gentleman of
fine presence and easy address. He is above the average
size, somewhat portiy and stands straight as an arrow. He
has a large, well- formed head ; around the lower part of the
head his hair is white and thin, while the top of the head is
quite bald, giving him a venerable appearance. His face is
exceedingly pleasing to look at and very impressive ; the
organ of language is largely developed ; there is a merry
twinkle in his eye indicating a hive of humor and a readi
ness to take a hand in when occasion offers. His voice is
musical, and as he rises to speak produces at once a favor
able impression. He is deliberate in his utterance and at
times rises to eloquence almost entrancing. He is graceful
and easy of gesture and during his arguments attracts uni
versal attention." The Colonel has a considerable reputa
tion as an orator and is noted for his lengthy and spicy
addresses. He is a hard worker for his clientf, and is
blessed with a wonderful degree of mental and physical
vigor, everything considered. For several years he was
associated with Geo. D. Montanye as a partner at law, and
latterly with E. L. Hillis. Three years since he opened a
law office at Scranton, .spending a part of his time there and
the balance at Towanda.

291
Politically the Colonel was originally a " Whig and acted
¦with that party as long as it lasted," then with the Republi
can party till 1872, when he was an earnest supporter of
Horace Greely. Since that time he has been rather retired,
generally voting with the Democratic party. It will not be
amiss to state that the Colonel's name has been sent to the
President for the nomination to a judgeship in one ofthe
territorial districts. The esteem in which he is held and
his fitness for the place, is shown in the hearty indorsement
which he has received from the bar and press, irrespective
of party, in the. Northern Tier.
Having been appointed Colonel of Militia 'by Gov. Porter,
he gets the appellation by which he is well known. For
genuine sociability and love of story. Col. Smith stands con
spicuously in the foreground COL. ALLEN MCKEAN
Was born in Burlington, Bradford county, June 28, 1808,
and was the eldest son of Robert McKean and Martha Wil
son. His grandfather, James McKean, was one ofthe origi
nal pioneers into Burlington in 1791. His maternal grand-
Jather, Noah Wilson, was also a pioneer into the county.
He came in from Vermont and settled at Alba in 1803.
James McKean was a native of Scotland, moved to the
north of Ireland, thence emigrated to America in about 1760
with his brothers and settled in the State of Maryland,
whence after some years they removed to Pennsylvania, on
the Juniata.
When the subject of this notice was about 17 years of age
his father died, which devolved upon him the chief care and
responsibility in assisting his widowed mother in providing
for the family.
Endowed by nature with a large heart, a noble, generous,
sacrificing disposition he learned to care more for the wants
of those dependent upon him than for himself
In early life, without advantages, with very limited oppor-

292
tunities, he, by toil and study, obtained a good common
school education, and for several years was a successful
teacher. ^
From his early manhood to old age he was called by his
fellow citizens to fill offices of trust and responsibility.
When only a young man he filled the office of Justice ofthe
Peace with acceptability for fourteen years with that calm,
dignified manner which characterized his whole life.
Under the old military regime of this Commonwealth he
filled the several places of Lieutenant, Captain, Major and
Lieutenant-Colonel with honor. He took an active part in
politics, and in 1835 was elected County Auditor on the In
dependent Democratic ticket, and served his term. His
views naturally being with the Whigs, he finally went over
to that party when it was in a hopeless minority, and be
cause ofhis popularity was many times a candidate on their
ticket. Though the Democrats were greatly in the majority,
several times he came very close to an election.
In 1848, owing in part to Democratic disjiffection and in
part to his personal strength, he was elected Prothonotary,
which office he held for twelve years. In 185 1, and in 1854,
he was elected against an adverse party majority of some
hundreds. Upon the organization of the. Republican party
he became a member of it, and was re-elected in 1857 upon
its ticket. In i860 he was again the candidate for nomina
tion and was " beaten by E. O. Goodrich in the sharpest
political contest within the Republican party inthe county."
In 1862 he was a candidate for Representative on the ticket
of the People's party and was defeated by less than a hun
dred votes. In the following year he was made the candi
date for Sheriff by the same party, but was defeated by J.
Monroe Smith, the Republican nominee. His defeats were
not, however, due to lack of personal popularity, but to the
fact that his party was in the minority. One of the men
who fought him politically says : " There was a time when
his popularity gave him a hold on the people politically
fully equally to that of Wilmot's."

293
He served as a clerk in the Treasury Department at
Washington, D. C, and was paymaster in the army with the
rank of Major a part of the time during the war of the Re
bellion, and was Assessor of Towanda borough several
years. " As a public officer he was deservedly popular.
He was competent, intelligent,, kind and obliging — always
forgetting self to please or assist a friend, and he was a
friend to everybody. He-really seemed delighted to assist
the most helpless and friendless. His kind words and gen
tle manner would re-assure a child. As Prothonotary, his
manly form, dignified bearing, pleasing address and accom
modating disposition made him at once a universal favorite
with all classes and with all parties.
His counsel and substantial aid were always freely given to
the poor and needy without fee or hope of recompense. The
ignorant and simple looked to him as an oracle! The poor
blessed him. In real benevolence, kindness of heart, self-
sacrificing devotion tb his friends, integrity, consistency,
sincerity and truth, he was peerless.
In his country's struggle with the rebellion, when Pennsyl
vania was invaded by the rebels, he offered his services and
was accepted by the government to defend the State. ' He
had a Captain's commission in that company, and while in
that service contracted a disease which caused his death..
As a citizen, a soldier, a patriot and a scholar he stands
deservedly pre-eminent. He had the will and courage and
fortitude of a warrior, while he was kind, forgiving and
affectionate to a fault. A stranger to duplicity or deceit, no
word ever passed his lips intended to injure any human
being. He loved the right, and was ready to embrace and
defend it at any personal cost. He was truly the noblest
work of God — an honest man."
In 1832 Mr. McKean was united in marriage with Miss
Elizabeth A. Merry, of Troy, who with a son, Leroy, and
daughter, Eliza, sui-vives him.
Upon his election to the office of Prothonotary in 1848
he removed with his family to Towanda, where he contmued

294

to reside till the time of his demise, April 6, 1 886. In con
clusion we quote from his biographer, and life-long friend,
John A. Codding: " A good man has gone. Full of years,
¦honored, loved and mourned by all, he passed away.",

WILLIAM T. DAVIES
Was born in Glamorganshire, Wales, Dec. 20, 1831. In
1833 his father, David Davies, emigrated to America and
settled in the township of Warren, where William spent his
boyhood days. He was educated in the public schools and
at the Owego Academy from which institution he was a
graduate. In 1856 he came to Towanda to take charge of
the public schools, and served as principal for four years.
In 1859 he began reading law with William Elwell, and
completed his studies with Judge Wilmot and his brother-
in-law, G. H. Watkins, He was admitted to practice in tlie
courts of the county in September, 1861. Upon the forma
tion of the 141st P. v., in 1862, he was elected Captain of
Company B, and remained with his company till May, 1863,
when he was compelled to yield his place on account of a
continued sickness, which nearly cost him his life, and re
turned to his home to build up a shattered constitution. In
1 864he was elected District Attorney ofthe county and served
for a term of three years. He has been successively associated
in the practice of his profession with Ulysses Mercur,
Henry Peet, W. H. Carnochan and finally with L. M. Hall.
Mr. Davies has always ranked well at the bar, and being of
a kind, sympathetic nature, has ever been strong before
juries. In 1876 he was the Republican candidate for Sena
tor in the 23rd Senatorial District, composed of the counties
of Bradford and Wyoming, and elected. He proved an able
and valuable servant to his constituency and was re-nomin
ated and elected in 1880. During the eight years he was in
the Senate he served on the General Judiciary Committee,
and was its Chairman the last three years of his incumbency.
He Was also Chairman of Committee on Appropriations

295
and served on various other minor committees. Senator
Davies occupied a conspicuous place in the body in which
he served and his views were always valued. In politics, as
well, his opinions were consulted by the party leaders, his
sound judgment gaining for him no little prominence in the
politics of the State. In 1882 he was the Republican can
didate for Lieutenant-Governor with Gen. Beaver, and was
defeated owing to the movement of the Independent Repub
licans, He is again a candidate for the nomination to the
same place on the Republican ticket this year, and his
chances of success are almost beyond a doubt.
Senator Davies is not an orator, but enjoys the reputation
of being a shrewd, level-headed gentleman of excellent com
mon sense both in his profession and other business rela
tions. In 1 861 he was united in marriage with Miss Mary,
daughter of Wm. Watkins, Esq., which union has been
blessed by two daughters and three sons.
DEACON JAMES ELLIOTT
Was of Irish-Holland descent on his paternal side, and was
born in Livingston's Manor, Columbia Co., N. Y., Oct. 10,
1788. His father, William Elliott, was a soldier of the Revo
lution, and moved to Wysox, Bradford Co., Pa., with his
family in 1*803. Here James grew to manhood, ever after
remaining in the county, with the exception of a short time
when he was a resident of Parrington, N. Y. His home was
generally in or not far from Towanda, where he died Dec.
17, 1883. At about the age of twenty-one years he met
with a change of heart in a Presbyterian meeting over which
Rev. M. M. York presided, but being of a Baptist mind
could not -be persuaded to unite with any other body of
Christian people. He was baptized about 18 12 by Elder
Hartwell, of Connecticut, in Wysox Creek at Myersburg,
and ever after lived a consistent Christian life. Oct 31,1 846,
he was elected a Deacon in the Baptist church of Towanda,

296
and held that office till the time of his "death. Mr. Elliott
Was a strong advocate of temperance and a pronounced ene
my of the use of tobacco. To a great extent did he claim
that his well-preserved physique and clear mind were due to
the fact that he was a total abstainer. Indeed, his physical
vigor was remarkable, he being able to walk several miles
after he was four score and ten. Up to the time of his de
mise his mind showed no signs of senility. This venerable
father was a gentleman of high standing, and a large con-
cour.se of citizens testified to their esteem by being at his
funeral. His remains were deposited in the Pond Hill ceme
tery, beside those of his beloved wife who had preceded him
to the grave some years before.
Mr. Elliott never had any children born unto him, though
a number have been reared under his care and gone out from
his home to homes of their own.

MILLER FOX
Was born in Towanda township, March 20, 1805. He was
clerk to the County Commissioners from 1830 to 1835,
when he resigned to become engineer of the Corning and
Blossburg Railroad. While here he personally introduced
the burning of coal in locomotives on the New York Cen
tral Railroad, Long Island Sound and Lake Ontario boats,
they having only burned wood before this. From that he
went to the Northern Railroad of New Hampshire, and as
chief engineer, he survej^ed, located and constructed the
Pasumpic River Railroad. Having finished this work he
returned to Towanda, where he built his well-known and
attractive residence. He was made the engineer of the
Towanda Bridge Company, and was president of it for several
years. Mr. Fox was considerably of a litterateur, and in
early life had stored his mind with useful knowledge. His
interests became enlisted in the Susquehanna Collegiate In
stitute at its inception, and for several years, until his death,
he was President of the Board of Trustees.

297 .
As a man Miller Fox was true, honest and honorable
as a friend and neighbor, kind, courteous and genial ; as a
Christian, hymble, trustful, consistent and intelligent. He
was for years a member of the Presbyterian Church, and
was always prominent and influential in its counsels and
affairs. Mr, Fox married Miss Margaret Garret Evans, of
Cooper Plains, N. Y. John E., an only child, occupies the
homestead. GORDON F. MASON
Was born in Monroe, Bradford county, Jan. 19, 1810, and
was the eldest son of Eliphalet and Roxy Fowler Mason.
For several years he was largely interested in the sale of
real estate in the counties of Bradford, Lycoming and Lu
zerne; and was several years a Deputy State surveyor for
Bradford county. In 1846 he was elected to the office of
State Senator, on the Democratic ticket and served one
term. Becoming interested in the banking business he re
moved to Towanda with his family in the Autumn of 1852,
where he continued to reside until the time of his death,
Oct. 26, 1882. He in company with C. L. Ward and James
P. Bull at one time were interested in the Barclay lands
and opened the first mine there, transporting such coal
, as they did in- wagons. Upon locating in Towanda Mr.
Mason identified himself with the various projects tending
to enhance the material prosperity of the town.
He was really the founder of the First National Bank of
Towanda and the originator of th'e move resulting in, the
formation of the Towanda Iron Manufacturing Company,
and was one of its directors and first President.
During the war he was one of the most urgent in calling
men to their duty in the preservation of the Constitution
and Union. In the various meetings, called to discuss mat
ters of " the war" he was ever present and one of the most
conspicuous members. Two sons were among the first to
offer their services to theUnionin the hour of her peril and
did faithful and gallant duty. (00)

298
After the failure of the Towanda Iron Manufacturing
Company Mr. Mason, with the pluck that was characteristic
of him, at the age of sixty-five, completed Blackstone, witb
which he had previously become familiar, and was admitted
to the practice of the law in the courts of the county in
1875. Mr. Mason took an active hand in political matters,
and was a Democrat up to the time of the move resulting
in the formation of the Republican party, with which he was
identified till the close ofhis life. He was familiarly known
as " Col. Mason" from the fact of his having been Colonel
of the State Militia.,
He was united in marriage with Miss Mary A., daughter
of Ebenezer Mason, of Monroe, unto whom have been
born — JuUus, who was educated in the military schools of
Kentucky, assisted in the formation ofthe 5th Pennsylvania
Reserves, being immediately transferred to a Lieutenancy
in Company K, 5th U. S. Cavalry and afterwards as an aid
to Gen. Grant. After the war he remained in the U. S.
Army, was Major of the 3rd U. S. Cavelry and brevet Lieu
tenant-Colonel. He died at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, Dec.
1882; Addison was a Lieutenant of Company F, 5th Re
serves, and served on Gen. Meade's staff He is now resid
ing at Pittston and is engaged in the coal business ; Maria,
widow of G. H. Watkins, late .Lieutenant- Colonel of the
141st P. v., resides at Towanda ; Almira (deceased) married
Chas. Welles of Ulster : Irene is the wife of Daniel Searles
of Montrose, Pa. ; Edward is a clerk with Powell & Co.,
Towanda, Pa.
Mrs. Mason survies her husband and is an excellent
c Christian lady, enjoying the esteem of all who know her.

WILLIAM C. BOGART, ESQ.,
Was born in New York city in 1812. He is of Holland
descent, his ancestors being among the early families of the
Empire city. In 1828, through the inducements of his
uncle, Enos Tompkins, he came to Rome, Bradford county.

299
to assist in his business there. He was finally taken into
co-partnership with Enos Tompkins & Co., and for a few
years traveled in the West making sales. In 1839 he came
to Towanda and still continued with his uncle until he went
out of business. Upon the election of Dr. Weston as Sher
iff, Mr. Bogart was made his deputy and served with effi
ciency during the three years. For several years he had
charge of the Towanda bridge, until 1853, when he was
elected a Justice ofthe Peace and held the same office con
tinuously for twenty-five years. He was for many years
Secretary ofthe Bradford County Agricultural Society, and
also served the people faithfully S,nd with intelligence in
many other capacities. As a magistrate Mr. Bogart was
efficient, accommodating, and one of the ablest the town
ever had. For many years he took a conspicuous part in
the doings of the town, and was one of the first and most
active firemen. He was ever ready to further the interests
of the town, and for many years was chorister of the Pres
byterian church. Mr. Bogart has now retired from active
business.

CHARLES M. MANVILLE,
Son of Adrian and Almira Woodruff Manville, was born in
the township of Wysox. His parents were natives of Con
necticut, and among the pioneers of Orwell, thence coming
to Wysox at an early day. Mrs. Manville was a sister of
Mrs. Dr. Barstow. Their father, Capt. Samuel Woodruff, a
Revolutionary soldier, came in from the East and lived with
Mrs. Barstow, where he died and is buried at Wysox. Mr.
Manville, after having lived in Wysox for a few years, moved
to Nichols, N. Y., where he remained for a short time, then
went to Western Virginia and spent the balance of his life.
Charles remained with his father in his hotel until a young
man, getting such education as he could by the aid of his
mother, and through his own diligence. In about 1830 he
came to North Towanda and worked for his brother at the

.¦'.00
Pail Factory, afterwards buying his interest. Since leaving
this institution he has been interested in business of various
kinds, generally farming. He has been a resident of To
wanda borough for thirty-four years, and during that time,
he says, " there has not been a day that he was not able to
go down street to attend to his business." In his younger
days Mr. Manville prepared for the legal profession, and
had nearly completed his studies when he was drawn into
business. This and a vast amount of general knowledge he
gained by burning the midnight oil. During the Rebellion
he was Provost Marshal, which gave him the title of Cap
tain, by which he is familiarly addressed.
The Captain has taken a considerable interest in politics,
and in the campaigns has frequently been one of the " stump
speakers." He is a man of remarkable physique and is
still in control of unimpaired intellectual faculties.

WILLIAM CHAMBERLIN, »
The oldest merchant that has been continuously in business
under the same name at Towanda, was born in Berkshire
county, Mass., June 6, 1819. At the age of thirteen he
went to Geneseo, Livingston county, N. Y., and for some
time worked at cabinet making. In 1834 he came to To
wanda, and with the exception of about a year and a half at
Troy and Elmira has since resided in the town. Having
learned the jeweler's trade in 1840 he began business under
the name of W. A. Chamberlin, which he has continued
up to the present time. In his business relations he has
been careful, methodical, straight forward and honorable ;
the result being the accumulation of a handsome property."
Mr. Chamberlin is a highly respected citizen, and is a
ready supporter of any scheme intended to add to the
material prosperity of the town. He is a brother of the late
Alvah E. Chamberlin, who was for several years post
master at Towanda, and one of her brightest and most popu
lar young men. '

301
JOHN CARTER
Was. born in slavery in Virginia, and " kept in bondage until
he was old enough to do a man's work," when he and sev
eral others were sold to a Georgian. As they were being
transported in chains to their new master, at a blacksmith
shop on their way one of the party found a " spike-gimlet,"
which he secreted, and when the proper time came, broke
their fetters and ran to make their escape. We only know
the fate of Mr. Carter. He returned to his home, saw his
mother for the last time, then started for Canada, keeping in
the woods and mountains, and for a whole week having no
other food than the buds of the trees. Arriving at Milton,
Northumberland Co., Pa., he accidentally found some friends
who informed him that he had relatives in the place, who
induced him to remain in the neighborhood. Finally, after
a year and a half he and others whose freedom had not been
bought, were betrayed by one of their own color. They
again fled, and barely escaped into New Jersey without be
ing taken. Becoming the servant of a tourist who took a
great liking to him, (through his aid he learned the barber's
art, and was soon enabled to run a shop of his own. After
having resided in Philadelphia, Jersey Shore, and Williams
port, he came from the last named place to Towanda in
1837, it having been recommended as a desirable place for
his business, from the fact of the building of the canal. Here
he has ever since resided, and for many years worked at his
trade. Mr. Carter, while uneducated, is a gentleman of good
judgment, honorable, and much respected by his -towns
men.

THE BAR.
The history ofthe Bar of Bradford County is necessarily
closely connected with the affairs of the county seat, the
scene of all important forensic measures. The Courts, which
organized in 1813 under the commission issued to John Ban
nister Gibson as President Judge, have held " perpetual sue-

302
cession " within what is now the Borough limits, and the
practicing attorneys have there resorted for the active labors
of professional duty. Some whose names appear upon the ap
pended list of those admitted to practice were for many years
residents- of Towanda; some, in recognition of the -high
character of distinguished counsellors, resided in Towanda
for the purpose of obtaining a legal education, and after their
probation, have carried their talents to other fields of labor ;
— and others again have been enrolled as members of the
bar only to facilitate their business which was chiefly in
other counties.
Taking in consideration the differences which three-fourths
of a century must produce, even in the stability of the law,
the records of the first courts of the county have a most fa
miliar appearance to the lawyers of to-day. Much of this is
undoubtedly due to the carefulness of early procedure, and
in the present case, to the painstaking and conscientious
labors of the late Chas. F. Welles, Sen., himself admitted at
the earliest date, who was the first keeper and custodian of
the records and evidences of process.
The first decade of the county's legal history witnessed
the admission of twenty-one members to the bar, whose
practice was before Judges Gibson, Burnside and Herrick,
the last named b^ing one of the first admitted here. The
next period — to 1833 — saw nineteen names added to the
list. From 1833 to 1843, thirty-four regular admissions were
noted, — -among the last of that period being the present dis
tinguished Chief Justice of this State. The next ten years
saw an increase of fifty-two, — among the number in the last
year being President Judge Morrow. Twenty-five more
were sworn before the close of 1863, — forty sworn in the
period closing with 1873, and forty-nine to the close of 1885.
Of these^ about one-third in number have been from time to
time closely connected with Towanda by residence as well as
business, and they are elsewhere noticed in connection with
general or family history.
Among those who came to the Bar prior to i860 but few

303
survive, and of these, eight have been exalted by their abili
ty and the voice of their countrymen to judicial positions
in this and other Commonwealths. Their ability, knowledge
and integrity are justly held in highest respect.
It is impossible within present limits to record much that
might be interesting in the personnel, characteristics, and
legal experience of the generation whose labors moulded the
first existence of this Bar. It may be said of all that they
labored to preserve the landmarks of the science whose ap
plication they were sworn justly to administer, — to avoid
dangerous and untimely innovations, and to present private
lives framed in accordance with the principles they taught.
In expertness of doctrine and carefulness of practice they
built a reputation which their successors will strive to main
tain. Taking the Bar altogether in its relations to Towanda, its
existence has been marked by the assistance given by the
profession to the best interests of the town, — by a desire to
harmonize and build up, to cultivate and to promote, and if
the general career of its members has been in accord with
the duties of private citizenship, its contribution to general
history has been important. Not only have its members
risen to judicial rank but public councils have felt their in
fluence. Wilmot, Mercur and Overton have participated in
national legislation, — Sanderson, Rockwell and Davies have
sat in our State Senate, — Kinney, Bullock, Barstow, Elwell,
Webb, Hillis, Madill, Shaw and others, in the House of Rep-
resentatives,-;-while in still another sphere, that of scientific
usefulness, the attainments of James Macfarlane, whose noble
life but lately ended, commanded widespread attention. The
loyalty of many whose names are elsewhere written, was
evinced in the late war, and their courage and devotion, even
to death itself, will not be forgotten.
The comparatively recent decease of Warner H. Car
nochan, justifies an allusion to him. In adopting Towanda
as his home, he brought a vigorous mind, a skilfulness in
his profession and brilliant prospects, which were too soon
overshadowed by his untimely death.

304

Appended is a list of Attorneys entered of record in Brad-
foi'd county since 1813 :

Name.
Adams, J. C. . . .
Ames, Herbert S.
Angle, E. J. . . .
Baldwin, Ethan. .
Bullock, Darius .
Barton, D. F. . .
Baird, E. W. . .
Burnside, James .
Barstow, Julius R.
Baird, H. C. . . .
Booth, Henry . .
Barker, Geo. R . .
Brisbane, John ., .
Ballard, O. P. Jr. .
Barker, Sperry . .
Burrows, T. E.
Bentley, Benj. S. .
Buck, Sam. W. .
Buffington, Edward
Bullock, Chas.E. .
Catlin, Charles
Case, Benj. T.
Collins, O . .
Cash, David .
Cook, J. A .
Case, N. P. .
Chamberlin, A
Case, Milton H. .
Carnochan, Warner
Coburn, F. G. . .
Califf, Jno. N. . .
Canfield, Jno. E. .
Camp, B. O. . . .
Chilson, W. E, . .

D

H

>MiTTED. Name.
1824 Carmalt, Jas. E. .
1870 Codding, James H.
1877 Codding, John W.
181 3 Cronin, John . .
181 3 Cameron, David ,
1823 Cleveland, E. J. .
1830 Dennison, — . .
1832 Dimmock, D. Jr., .
1839 DeWolf, Lyman E.
1842 Dana, Edmund L.
1844 Dewitt, W. R.
1849 Deitrick, A. J.
1852 Davies, W. T.
1868 Durand, S. H.
1868 Dewitt, Jacob
1870 Dewitt, D. C.
1875 Davies, Rees
1879 Doane, S. O. .
1880 DeAngeles, P. C.
1884 Drake, Frank F.
181 3 Dunham, E. M.
1 8 17 Davies, John_ E.
1 81 8 Disbrow, Theo. C
1 8 19 Evans, John . .
1843 Elwell, Wm. . ?.
1848 Emery, Jacob .
1848 Elwell, Edward
1853 Elsbree, Nathan C
1 86 1 Evans, Isaac N .
1 86 1 Elliott, Edward
1864 Espy, John . .
1845 Elsbree, L. . .
1 87 1 Espy, B. M. . .
1877 Elliott, M. F. .

1877 1879 18791885
1885 1880 1815
183s
1837 1844 1848
1851 i860 i860
1863 1871
1872 1872
1872 18741875
1882 188118131832
183s 1840
1849 1853 1861 1867
187s1876 1881

305

Name.
Frazer, Philip .
Frisbie, Mason Z
Frazer, Franklin
Foyle, William
Fassett, D. D. .
Fanning, Adelbert C
Gray, Hiram . .
Grow, Galusha A.
Greeno, C. C. . .
Grim, A. Logan .
Goodrich, St. John
Guernsey, Jno. W.
Gridley, E. C. .
Goff,E.F. , . .
Gillette, W. LaMonte
Herrick, Edward
Hale, James T .
Hulett, Mason .
Heaton, J. H. .
Holliday, James
Hazard, E. W .
Hakes, Lyman .
Hale Judson . .
Hale, James E.
Hurlburt, Edwin
Herrick, Edward, J
Harris, Jos. R. .
Hillis, E, L. . .
Hall, L. M. . .
Head, Arthur .
Hall, Charles M
Hale, Benj. F. .
Hale, Jas. T. . .
Huston, Chas. T
Horton, John C
Ingham, A. . .

OMITTED, Name.
1837 Ingalls, Roswell C.
185 I Ingham, Thos. J.
1866 Johns, Hiram C.
1870 Jones, Lynds F.
1870 Johnson, F. G. .
1874 Johnson, H. F
1828 Kinney, Simon .
1847 Knox, John C. .
1850 Kelley, H. C. .
1863 Kinney, O. H. P.
1 841 Kellum, Charles
1 841 Kinney, Miles .
1 87 1 Kidder, Luther
1876 Keeler, Henry .
1 88 1 Kingsbury, John H
18 1 3 Kirkuff, J. B. .
1832 Kirkendall, S. E
1832 Kinney, O D. .
1840 Kirby, S. S. . .
1 841 Keeney, J. P. .
1 841 Kimberly, Geo. W.
1843 ¦ Lewis, E. . .
1844 Little, Robert . .
1846 Lyman, A. Chauncey
1847 Lewis, E. D. . .
1866 Little, E. H. . .
1870 Little, Stanley W
187s Little, William'.
1877 Lamb, Chas. E.
1877 Lilley, Mial E.
1877 Lewis, Geo. W.
1 88 1 Lamberspn, W. A.
1879 Lewis, G. Mortimer
1879 Lloyd, Chnton . .
1880 Mallory, Garrick .
1826 McClure, Robert .
(PP)

1839i860
1870 187318831882
181318411842 1844
18451853185318621869
18701873187618831879
188018281842
1855 1870
1872 1873
•-1875 1872
1880 1876 18761877
1813 1813

306

Name. ' .

Admitted.

Name. Admitted.

Miner, Josiah K. . .

I816

Nichols, F. M. . . .

1873

Maynard, John W. .

1833

Noble, Orrin T. . .

1874

Maxwell, Volney M.

1833

Overton, Edward . .

1816

Mercur, Ulysses . . .

1843

Overton, D'Alanson .

1853

Mitchell, David . . .

1843

Overton, Edward, Jr .

1858

Myer, Hiram W. . .

1,845

Patton, William . .

1818

Marvin, E. C 

1846

Payne, H 

1830

Metcalf Henry . . . .

I85I

Pettibone, Harvey .

1832

Mills, M. E. . .

185I

Pierce, Stephen, . . '

1832

Madill, H. J. . .

1851

Purple, Norman H. .

1833

McCay, Jas. E. . .

1870

Patrick, H. W. . . .

1838

McAlpin, Harvey .

1853

Patrick. G. G. . . .

1841

Morrow, Paul D. . .

1853

Pierce, L. H. . . .

1842

McKean, H. B. . .

185s

Pierce, James E. . . .

1844

Montanye, Geo. DeLa

1857

Piatt, Orville H. . .

1850

Mercur, Charles . .

1861

Patrick, Edward L .

i860

Mix, John W. . . .

1864

Peck, Benjamin M. .

i860

Morrison, S. G. . .

187I

Peet, Henry ....

1863

Maynard, H. F. . .

1872

Peck, William A . . .

1864

McPherson, Isaiah .

P872

Palmer, King W. . .

1879

Mitchell, S. N. . . .

1872

Payne, S. R . . . .

1864

Mercur, Rodney A. .

1875

Patrick, F. G . . . .

1868

Maxwell, William. .

• 187s

Picketts, A 

1874

Mason, Gordon F. .

• 1875

Porter, Frank S. . .

1876

Myer, Thos. E. . .

1877

Peck, "W. H 

1847

McCollum,A.H. . .

1877

Parsons, Eli B . . .

1849

McCollom, J. T. . .

1882

Phinney, J. F. . . .

1882

Morgan, Adalbert .

1878

Piolett, Victor E., Jr.,

1882

Mercur, James W. .

1879

Richards, J. T . . .

. 1840

Morgan, Albert . .

1878

Reeve, J. B 

1851

Myer, Thos. E. . .

1877

Ross, Franklin C. .

1859

Mills, Edward, Jr . .

1878

Rockwell, Delos . .

. 1862

Marsh, H. F. . . .

. 1882

Ryan, Thomas . . .

. vi86i

Morrow, John P. . .

1886

Redfield, A. A. . .

1877

McGovern, Wm . .

1882

Rockwell, H. H. . .

1878

Noble, Silas ....

¦ 183s

Scott, David ....

1813

307

Name.
Stewart, A. C. . .
Strong, S. G . . ,
Sturdevant, E. W.
Sample, Hamilton
Sanderson, George
Scott, Wilson' . .
Smith, Elhanan .
Saxton, Frederick
Smith, Francis , .
Sherwood, Julius .
Smead, Thomas .
Scott, Wm. G. . .
Stevens, N. Miller
Siebensck, James J.
Shaw, J. H. . . .
Stone, Judson W .
Streeter, Henry .
Smith, D. W. . .
Sh*emaker, J. Ferris
Sherwood, Edmond
Sittser, John A. .
Sanderson, Jno. F.
Sickler, Harvey
Smith, C. . . .
Stroud, Geo. D.
Sechrist, W. C. .
Scouten, John G
Stephens, O. D.
Thomas, Hiram
Todd, Thomas .
Tyler, ' Hugh .
Treusdell, L. M.
Tutton, Geo. S .

Admitted. Name.
1 813 Tozer, Ralph . .
1 818 Thompson, R.J. .
1829 Thompson, W. H.
1837 Talbot, D. Smith .
1840 Tozer, J. S. . . .
1 841 Thompson, Eugene A
1842 Thompson, Edward A
1843 Welles, CF . .
1844 Williston, Henry
1844 Watkins, Wm .
1844 Wilmot, David .
1 845 Woodward, G. W
1849 Ward, Christopher I
1857 Williston, L. P. .
1869 Wilcox, HuchinsT
1 87 1 Wattles, Morris S,
1872 Wilcox, — .
1872 Wells, Thos . .
1873 Wilson, F.S . .
1879 Wells, Geo. O. .
1874 Webb, Henry G
1874 Watkins, Guy H
1875 Willard, W. W.
1875 Williams, H. N.
1876 Willard, Chas. F
1880 ,Wood, James .
1879 Watkins, W.H .
1872 Wilt, J. Andrew
1833 Williams, John G,
1850 Walker, Edward
1847 Watkins, G. M .
185 1 Webb, James H
1852 Young, Wm. J .

1853
187118691872187218801880
181318181828 1829
1834183718371840184418441844
1846 1847
1849185318581859
1859 i86018681875
1882 1882
188618851877

308
BRADFORD COUNTY CIVIL LIST.
United States Senators.
Samuel McKean  1835-39
David Wilmot  1861-63
Members of Congress.
Samuel McKean  1822-24
John Laporte   1834-36
David Wilmot  1844-50
Henry W. Tracy  1862-64
Ulysses Mercur  1864-71
Joseph Powell . . . .'  1874-76
Edward Overton   1876-80
fudge of the^ United States Court of Claims.
David Wilmot  1863-68
Consul to Santa Cruz, West Indies.
Edward H. Perkins  .... 1862 —
Deputy Collector of Port of Philadelphia.
Henry W. Tracy  1866-68
Joseph Powell  1885 (Incumbent)
Su-rveyor of Port of Philadelphia.
E. Reed Myer ;  . 1861-67
E. O'Meara Goodrich  1869-81
Deputy Surveyor of Port of Philadelphia.
Hiram P. Goodrich  1869-81
Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Samuel McKean ,  1829-32
Deputy Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Elisha S. Goodrich  1852-55
Surveyor General.
John Laporte  1845-51
fustice of Supreme Court.
Ulysses MercUr, 1872 — became Chief Justice, Jan., 1883.

309
State Superintendent of Common Schools.
Charles R. Coburn  1863-66
State Senators.
Henry Welles, 1815-18. District — Lycoming, Clinton,
Centre, McKean, Bradford and Tioga.
Samuel McKean, 1829-30 (resigned to become Secretary
of Commonwealth) — Bradford, Susquehanna and Tioga.
Reuben Wilbur, 1830-37 — Bradford, Susquehanna and
Tioga. Elihu Case, 1837-40 — Susquehanna and Bradford.
Gordon F. Mason, 1846-49 — Bradford and Tioga.
George Sanderson, 1850-53 — Susquehanna, Bradford,
Wyoming. E. Reed Myer, 1856-59 — Susquehanna, Bradford and
Wyoming. George Landon, 1859-62 and 1865-68 — Susquehanna,
Bradford and Wyoming.
Delos Rockwell, 1874-76 — Susquehanna, Bradford and
Wyoming. William T. Davies, 1876-84 — Bradford and Wyoming.
J. K. Newell, 1884 (incumbent) — Bradford and Wyoming.
Members of the House of Representatives.
From 1774 to 1782, inclusive, Bradford county formed
part of Westmoreland, State of Connecticut, and sent mem
bers to the semi-annual sessions of the Legislature at Hart
ford, as follows :
September, 1774, Christopher Avery; October, 1781,
Obadiah Gore, Capt. John Franklin; May, 1782, Obadiah
Gore; October, 1782, Obadiah Gore.
District — Lycoming, Bradford, Tioga and Potter Counties.
— 1813-14, Henry Welles.
District— Bradford and Tioga Counties. — 181 5-19, Samuel
McKean ; 1820-22, Simon Kinney.
District — Bradford County {one member). — 1822-23, Wm.

310
Myer; 1823-26, Lemuel Streeter ; 1826-28, Constant Math
ewson ; 1828-29, John Laporte.
District — Bradford and Tioga {two members). — 1829-32,
*John Laporte ; 1832-33, EUis Lewis; 1833-35, Lockwood
Smith; 1835-36, Darius Bullock, Isaac Myer.
District — Bradford {one member). — 1836-37, Isaac Cooley ;
1837-38, George Kinney; 1838-40, David F. Barstow; 1840-
41, Stephen Pierce; 1841-43, William Elwell.
District — Bradford {two members). — 1843-45, John Elliott,
Irad Wilson; 1845-46, John L. Webb, Victor E. Piollet;
1846-47; V. E. Piollet, Francis Smith; 1847-48, Francis
Smith, Arunah Wattles ; 1848-49, Arunah Wattles, Charles
Stockwell ; 1849-50, Joseph C. Powell, Charles Stockwell ;
1850-52, Addison McKean, Henry Gibbs; 1852-54, Wm.
E. Barton, John Passmore; 1854-56, Bartholomew Laporte,
Judson Holcomb ; 1856-58, C. F. Nichols, J. B. G. Babcock ;
1858-60, O. H. P. Kinney, Thomas Smead ; 1860-62, Henry
W.Tracy, C. T, Bliss; 1862-63, Dummer Lilley, B. La
porte ; 1863-64, D. Lilley, Jos. H. Marsh ; 1864-65, Jos. H.
Marsh, Lorenzo Grennell ; 1865-66, G. W. Kinney, L. Gren-
nell; 1866-67, Jas. H. Webb, G. W. Kinney; 1867-70, Jas.
H. Webb, John F. Chamberiain ; 1870-71, f Jas. H. Webb,
P. H. Buck; 1871-72, P. H. Buck, B. S. Dartt ; 1872-73, B.
S. Dartt, E. Re^d Myer ; 1873-74, E. Reed Myer, Jas. H.
Webb. District — Bradford {three members). — 1874-76, Geo. Mos-
crip, Elijah G. Tracy, Uriah Terry; 1876-78, E. Reed Myer,
James Foster, John F. Gillett; 1878-80, S. D. Harkness, H.
J. Madill, Asa Nichols; 1880-82, J. H. Marsh, E. L. Hillis,
L. D. Taylor ; 1882-84, E. J. .Ayers, Benj. B. Mitchell, J. P.
Coburn; 1884-86, J. H. Shaw, H. Howell, S. D. Sterigere.
*Spealier, 1832.
t Speaker, 1871.
X Speaker, 1877.

311
. Delegates to Constitutional Convention.
1837 — Almon H. Read, Senatorial (Bradford, Susque
hanna). Nathaniel Clapp, Representative (Bradford).
1873 — George F. Horton, Jos. G. Patton.
President fudges.
John B. Gibson  1812 to Sept., 1816
Thonias Burnside  1817
Edward Herrick  Sept. 181 8 to Sept. 1839
John N. Conyngham  1839 to 1849
Horace Williston  1849 to 185 1
David Wilmot  1851 to 1861
Ulysses Mercur  1861 to 1865
Ferris B. Streeter  1865 to 1874
Paul D. Morrow  1874 (incumbent).
Additional Law fudge.
Paul D. Morrow  1 870 to 1874
Associate fudges.
Geo. Scott  Oct., 1812, to May, 1818
John McKean  Oct., 1812, to May, 1837
Jonathan Stevens  . May, 181 8, to 1840-41
John Laporte  1839 to 1845
Abraham Goodwin  1841 to 1844
David M. Bull  '  1845
Harry Morgan  1846 to 185 1
Reuben Wilber  1846 to 1851
Myron Ballard  elected 185 1
Harry Ackley  " 185 1
Aaron Chubbuck  ,  " 1856
John F. Long  " 1856
John Passmore  " 1858
V. M. Long  " 1861
L. P. Stafford  " 1863
J. Wilson Vandyke  " 1866
Zebulon Frisbie  " 1868
Stephen D. Harkness  " 1871
Chauncey S. Russell  1873 to 1875

.312
Sheriffs.*
Abner C. Rockwell  appointed Dec. 9, 1812
John Spalding, 2d  " Dec. 9, 1815
Lemuel Streeter  " Dec. 14, 1818
Joseph C. Powell  " Oct. 30, 1821
Reuben Wilber  " Oct. 28, 1824
Benjamin McKean  " Nov. 27, 1827
Lockwood Smith, Jr  " Dec, 1830
John L. Webb  " Dec, 1833
Guy Tozer  " Nov., 1836
Ira H. Stephens  elected Oct., 1839
John N. Weston  " Oct., 1842
John F. Means  " Oct., 1845
William S. Dobbins  " Oct., 1848
Chester Thomas  " Oct., 185 1
John A. Codding  " Oct., 1854
Thomas M. Woodruff  " Oct., 1857
A. Hanson Spalding  " Oct.', i860
J. Monroe Smith  " Oct., 1863
William Griffis  " Oct., 1866
J. Perry VanFleet  " Oct., 1869
¦J. Moijroe Smith  " Oct., 1872
Andrew J. Layton  " Nov., 1875
Peter J. Dean  " Nov., 1878
William T. Horton  " Nov., 188 1
Dallas J. Sweet  " Nov., 1884
Prothonotary, Clerk of Oyer and Terminer and Quarter
Sessions.
Charles F.Welles  1812 to 1818
George Scott  1818 to 1830
Darius Bullock  ." 1830 to 1831
Alpheus Ingham  1831
James P. Bull  May 1831 to 1836
Samuel Strait  1836
* The two candidates having the highest number of votes were returned to the Governor,
of whom he appointed one to be Sheriff. The same rule held in regard to Coroner.

313
Joseph C. Powell  Oct 1836 to 1839
David Cash, elected  1839
Aaron Chubbuck, "  1842
Addison McKean, "  1845
Allen McKean, "  '. . 1848-51-54-57
E.O'Meara Goodrich,"  1860-63
Wm. A. Thomas, "  1866-69
Benjamin M. Peck, "  1872-75
Geo, W. Blackman, "  1878-81
Wm. J. Young, "  (incumbent) 1884
Register of Wills, Recorder of Deeds, and Clerk of Orphans'
Court.
Charles F. Welles, appointed  1812-1818
Geo. Scott, Clerk Orphans' Court  1818 to 1830
Eliphalet Mason, Register and Recorder . . . 18 18 to 1820
Charles Whithead, Register and Recorder . . 1820 to 1824
Alpheus Ingham, Register and Recorder,
and Clerk  1824 toi 831
EhshaS. Goodrich  1 831 to 1836
George A. Mix  1836 to 1838
Dummer Lilley  1838 to 1839
Ephraim W. Baird  elected 1839
JuUus Russell  " 1842
Lyman DeWolf  " 1845
Horatio Black  " 1848
H. Lawrence Scott  " 185 1
James H. Webb  " 1854 and 1857
Nathan C. Elsbree . .'  " i860 and 1863
Henry J. Madill  " 1866
Chas. E. Gladding  " 1869
Otis J. Chubbuck  -. " 1872
Cephas E. An<5rus  " 1875
Addison C. Frisbie  " 1878
James H. Webb  " 1881
Adelbert D. Munn (incumbent) . . " 1884
(QQ)

314
District Attorneys.
Thomas Smead  elected Oct., 1850
James Macfariane  -'. " Oct., 1853
Paul D. Morrow  " Oct., 1856
Guy H. Watkins  " Oct., 1859
George D. Montanye  " Oct., 1862
Wm. T. Davies  " Oct., 1865
Warner H. Carnochan  " Oct., 1868
Joseph B. Reeve  '. " Oct., 187 1
John N. Califf  . " _ Oct., 1874
Isaiah McPherson  . . " Nov., 1877
Adelbert C. panning  " Nov., 1880
Eleazer J. Angle  " Nov., 1883
County Treasurers.'\
Harry Spalding  appointed Jan., 1813-14
Wm. Means  " Jan., 1815
Simon Kinney  " Jan., 1816-17
Henry Mercur  " Jan., 1818-20
Gurdon Hewitt  , " Jan., 1821-22
George Scott  " Jan., 1823
Andrew Irvine  " Jan., 1824-26
James-P. Bull  " Jan., 1827-28
Alpheus Ingham  " Jan., 1829
Andrew Irvine  " Jan., 1830
William Russell  " Jan.^ 1831-32
Chauncey Frisbie  " Jan., 1833-34
David M. Bull  " Jan., 1835-37
John E. Hale  " Jan., 1838-40
Wm. B. Storm ......... " Jan., 1841
Charles Stockwell  elected Oct., 1841

Leonard Pierce
Jacob Reel . .
James M. Peck
John Horton .
Benj. Wilcox .

Oct., 1843
Oct., 1845
Oct., 1847
Oct., 1849
Oct., 185 1

t Appointments were made by the Commissioners.

31.5
Preceptor Forbes 
Ezra C. Kellogg 
E. Percival Shaw 
Wm. Griffis 
Francis Watts 
Stephen D. Harkness 
J. Perry VanFleet 
Chas. A. Morey 
*C. K. Ladd 
Wm. Bunyan 
Matthew Marshall 
James C. Robinson 
John H. Grant 
Eben Lilley 
J. Leman Elsbree (incumbent) ....
County Commissioners.
Joseph Kinney  elected Oct.,
Justus Gaylord • • ¦  '
Wm. Myer 
Burr Ridgway 
Samuel McKean . . . • 
Salmon Bosworth . . . . ' 
Nathaniel Allen 
Eliphalet Mason . . . . ( 
Joseph C. Powell 
Bartholomew Laporte 
Wm. Myer 
Geo. Hyde  '
Lemuel Streeter  '
Darius Bullock  '
John Taylor  '
Theodore Leonard  '
Gould Seymour 
Burton Strait  '
Churchill Barnes  '
Hezekiah Dunham  '

Oct.,

1853

Oct.,

1855

Oct.,

1857

Oct.,

1859

Oct.,

1861

Oct.,

1863

Oct.,

1865

Oct.,

1867

Oct.,

1869

Oct.,

1871

Oct.,

1873

Nov.,

187.S

Nov.,

1878

Nov.,

1881

Nov.,

1884

Oct.,

1812

Oct.,

1812

Oct.,

1812

Oct.,

1813

Oct.,

1814

Oct.,

181S

Oct.,

1815

Oct.,

1816

Oct.,

1817

Oct.,

i8i8'

Oct.,

1819

Oct.,

1820

Oct.,

1821

Oct.,

1822

Oct.,

1823

Oct.,

1824

Oct.,

1825

Oct.,

1826

Oct..

1827

Oct.,

1828

.316

Eliphalet Mason . .
John L. Webb . . .
Isaac Cooley ....
John Elliott ....
Morris Spalding . .
Elias Rockwell . . .
Harry Morgan . . .
E. S. Goodrich . . .
Daniel Parke ....
Ira Stevens ....
Myron Ballard . . .
Irad S. Wilson . . .
Benjamin Buffington
Edson Aspenwall . .
Daniel Brink ....
Joseph Towner . . .
Luman Putnam . .
Ashbel L. Cranmer .
John H. Black . . .
Hiram Spear . .
Simeon Decker . . .
Aug. S. Smith . . .
Sturges Squires
Daniel B. Cotton . .
Isaac A. Park . . .
Stuart Smiley . . ,.
Geo. H. Bull ....
Perley H. Buck . . .
Dummer Lilley .
Daniel Decker . . .
Perley H. Buck . . .
William A. Thomas .
Wm. H. Decker . .
Isaac Lyon ....
Josephus Campbell .
Wm. B. Dodge . . .
John Beardslee . . .

Oct.

, 1829

Oct.

1830

Oct.

1831

Oct.

1832

Oct.

18,33

Oct.

1834

Oct.

183s

Oct.

1836

Oct.

1837

Oct.

1838

Oct.

18,39

Oct.,

18.39

Oct.

1840

Oct.

1841

Oct.

1842

Oct

1843

Oct.,

1844

Oct.

1845

Oct.

1846

Oct.

1847

Oct.

1848

Oct.

1849

Oct.

1850

Oct.

1851

Oct.

1852

Oct.

1853

Oct:

1854

Oct.

185^

Oct.

1856

Oct.

18.57

Oct.

1858

Oct.,

1859

Oct.

i860

Oct.

1861

Oct.

1862

Oct.

1863

Oct.

1864

317
Sterne McKee  " Oct., 1865
Wm. B. Dodge  " Oct., 1866
John A. Moody  " Oct., 1867
Ezra Loomis  " Oct.,. 1868
John B. Hines  " Oct., 1869
E. C. Kellogg :  " Oct., 1870
Morris Shepherd  " Oct., 1871
Benj. Kuykendall  " Oct., 1872
Abram Snell  • . " Oct., 1873
Morris Shepherd  " Oct. 1874
*M. J. Coolbaugh  " Nov., 1875
*Geo..W. Kilmer  " Nov., 1875
*John Baldwin  " Nov., 1875
James H. Hurst . .  " Nov., 1878
Daniel Bradford  " Nov., 1878
M. F. Ransom  " Nov.. 1878
Daniel Bradford  •  " Nov., 1 881
Myron Kingsley  " Nov., 1881
M. F. Ransom  " Nov., 1881
Milton O. Loomis  " Nov., 1884
Levi W. Towner  " Nov., 1884
Geo. H. Vandyke  " Nov., 1884
County Auditors.
Clement Paine,- Moses Coolbaugh, Jona
than Stephens  elected Oct., 1 81 3
Eliphalet Mason, Wm. F. Dininger, Sal
mon Bosworth  " Oct., 18 14
Ethan.Baldwin  " Oct.^1815
Lemuel Streeter, Edward Herrick ... " Oct., 18 16
Jonathan Stevens  " Oct., 18 17
Wm. .Means, Geo. Hyde, B. J. Woodruff, " Oct., 1818
Samuel Bartlett  " Oct, 18 19
Harry Morgan  " Oct., 1820
J. M. Piollet  " Oct, 1821
Nathaniel Clapp  " Oct., 1822
* Elected for three years, the term having been two years prior.
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319
Jeremiah Travis, Jr  " Oct, 1859
E. Reuben DeLong  " Oct., 1-860
Robert Mason  " Oct, 1861
Geo. R. Acroyd  " Oct, 1862
C. H. Corbin  " Oct, 1863-
Robert Mason  " Oct., 1 864
Geo. W. Elliott  " Oct., 1865
Isaac D. Soper  .' ... " Oct., 1866
O. D. Field  " Oct, 1867
Asa.McKee, Jr  " Oct., 1868
Walter S. Bowman  " Oct, 1869
John S. Quick  " Oct, 1870
A. R. Brown  " Oct, 1871
Ira Crane  " Oct, 1872
E. Reuben DeLong  " Oct, 1873
Geo. W. Brink-  " Oct., 1874
*Danvers Bourne, J. R. Brasted, Wm.
L. Lantz  " Nov., 1875
Joseph H. Hurst, Ulysses M. Pratt, Chas.
P. Welles  " Nov., 1878
Wm. W. Moody, Joseph T. Hested, Chas.
P. Welles  " Nov., 188 1
Clement F. Heverly, Earl V. Nichols, Job
Morley  " Nov., 1884
Clerks of Commissioners.
Joseph Kingsbury  appointed Jan., 1813-14

George Scott
Burr Ridgway . .
Edwin Benjamin .
Morris Spalding .
James P. Bull . .
Warren Brown . .
Miller Fox . . .
John E. Hale . . .
Charles Stockwell

Jan., 1815-20
Jan., 1820
Jan., 1821-22
.Jan., 1823-24
Jan., 1825-26
Jan., 1827-29
Jan., 1830-35
Jan., 1836-37
Jan., 1838-41

* Elected for three years, the term ,having previously been two years.

320

A. S. Chamberlain
John M. Wattles
C S. Russell . .
E. M. Farrar . .
E. B. Coolbaugh
G. E. Fox . . .
E. B. Coolbaugh
Wm. Lewis . .
Samuel W. Buck, (incumbent)

fury Commissioners.
Storrs ....

Joseph Foulke, W. R
E. Reuben DeLong, S. W. Buck .
B. Frank Knapp, C. Edson Ferguson
Thomas A. Lee, Frank E. Jayne
Volney M. Wilson, Thos. J. Smiley
Nelson Gilbert, J. Monroe Ayers .
Mahlon M. Hicks, John R. Fulford
Coroners.
John Horton  appointed 1813

Jan., 1842-44
Jan., X 845 -47
Jan, 1848-50
Jan., 1851-56
Jan., 1857-62
Jan., 1863
Jan., 1864-75
Jan., 1876-82
Nov., 1882
elected Oct, 1867
" Oct., 1870
Oct, 1873
" Nov., 1876
" Nov., 1879
" Nov., 1882
" Nov., 1885

Reuben Wilber
John Minier . . .
Chauncey Frisbie
John Fox . . .
John L. Webb . .
John Vandyke .
Edwin L. Paine .
Aaron Knapp

18151818 18201824 1837
18301833 1836
Henry S, Salisbury  elected 1839

Calvin Storm
John Hatch ....
Thomas J. Ingham .
Geo. M. Black . . .
W. W. Eastabrooks
Newell Leonard . .
Jeremiah Culp . . .
.Abram Snell, Jr . .

1842
18451848 1851 1854 1857
i860 1863

321
Joseph H. Hurst  " 1866
John F Dodge  " 1869
J. Valentine Geiger  " 1872
Daniel B. Walker  " 1875-78-81
Clinton H. Scott  " 1882
Volney Homet  " 1884
County Surveyors.
tjonathan Stevens appointed Deputy Surveyor 1S12
Zephen Flower . . " " " 1821
Eliphalet Mason . " " " 1824
Gordon F. Mason . " " " 1830
tjames M. Edsall . " " " 1833
fRowland Wilcox, " " " .1836
Edgar G. Nichols  elected 1850
James A. Paine  " 1853
Jos. E. Spalding  " 1856
Josiah J. Newell  " 1859-62-65
Ohver W. Stevens  " 1868
Jos. E. Spalding-  " 1871
Geo. V Myer  " 1874
T. A. Seward  " 1877-80
Oliver A. Gilbert  " 1883
County Superintendents .
Emanuel Guyer  "  elected 1854
Charles R. Coburn  " 1857-66
Otis J. Chubbuck  " 1863-66
Austin A. Keeney  • . " 1869-72-75
J. Andrew Wilt . appointed to fill vacancy, Jan., 1878
George W. Ryan (incumbent) . . . elected 1878-81-84
BURGESSES OF TOWANDA.
Hiram Mix  elected 1829
David F. Barstow  " 1830
Samuel Huston  " 1831
D. F. Barstow ....... " 1832
f Appointments mad© by the Surveyor-General of the State.

322

Burton Kingsbury .
D. S. Goodrich . .
Simon Kinney . .
D. F. Barstow . . .
Silas Noble ....
W. B. Storm . . .
Samuel Huston . .
George A. Mix . .
Ira H. Stephens . .
E. D. Montanye . .
D. F. Barstow . . .
Adonijah Moody .
David M. Bull . '. .
Hiram Mix ....
William Elwell . .
Wm. A. Chamberlin
Wm. -Elwell . . . ch
N. N. Betts . .
U. Mercur . .
Wm. Elwell .
C. L. Ward . .
B. F. Powell .
James McCabe
C. S. Russell .
Alex Diven .
I. B. Humphrey
A. G. Mason .
Jas. Bryant . .
Jas. McCabe .
E. T. Fox . .
N. N. Betts .
W. H. Dodge .
W. H. Jones .
W. G. Alger .
John J. Spalding.
F. J. Krom . .
C. B. Porter .

osen

- " 1833
• " 1834
- " 18351836
• " 1837
1838-39-401841
" 1842
• " 1843
" 1844
¦ " 1845 18461847-48-
" 18491850
" , 185 1
by council 1852-53-54
" 1855
" 1856-57-58 1859-60
" 1861
1862 1863
" 1864-65-66-67-
" 1870 1871
" 1872
" 1873-74
" 1875.
1876
" 1877-78
" 1879
" 18801881-821883
" 1884
" .1885

B-69

323
Edward Frost . . " " 1886
NEWSPAPERS.
The first effort to start a county paper was made by Wm.
Brindle, of Williamsport, who circulated a subscription and
turnedhis efforts over to Thomas Simpson, who, in 1813,
published the Bradford Gazette, the first newspaper printed
in the county — the office being located at " Meansville,"
near the Episcopal church, opposite Jesse Woodruff's
tailor shop. He continued to publish the Gazette about one
year, when he sold his interest in the paper to Burr Ridg
way, who continued to print it for a little more than three
years. During that time, and while the editor was on the
days of appeals as County Commissioner, Octavius A. Hol
den, who had charge of the paper in his absence, issued six
numbers of a paper styled " The Times," the object of which
was to advertise the unseated lands, a majority of the Com
missioners being Federals and opposed to patronizing the
Gazette- and took this opportunity and paid Holden to print
the six numbers ofthe " Times " under the direction of Si
mon Kinney, County Treasurer, and issued the same as their
dates matured. The scheme did not succeed, as the Trea
surer did not think it prudent to sell upon such notice, and
thus ended the " Times." The Washmgtonian,
The first Federal paper in the county, was'edited by Lewis
C. Franks, who continued its publication for about one year,
when it was -turned ?over to Octavius A. Holden, who. dis
continued its publication after a short time. Its motto Was
— ;" I claim as large a charter as the winds, to blow on wham
I please." The Bradford Gazette,
Which was Democratic-Republican in politics, was pur
chased by Streeter & Benjamin in 181 8 and its name changed
to

324
Bradford Settler,
which in 1821 was purchased by George Scott, who remain
ed the editor and publisher for two years, when he was suc
ceeded by James P. Bull, who conducted the paper in the
interest of a company representing the McKean interest in
politics, being Democratic. In 1830 Mr. Bull sold the Set
tler to Hamlet A. Kerr, who edited it for a short time. In
1833 Dr. Hiram Rice succeeded to the office and material,
and changed the name of the paper to the Northern Banner.
He continued the publication ofthe paper for two years, its
politics remaining unchanged, being ardently Jacksonian.
The Towanda Republican
Was published in 1826-27 by Warren Jenkins, as an oppo
sition paper (National Republican) to the Jacksonian De
mocracy. In 1828-29 Burr Ridgway succeeded to it, and
continued its publication for two or three years when it
ceased to appear. The Northern Banner
Was purchased by E. S. Goodrich in 1835 and continued
fdr about two years, when it was sold to J. C. Cantine and
others who combined it with the Democrat under the title
of the Banner and Democrat.
The Bradford Democrat
Was established as the organ of the McKean wing (the
Banner having ceased to support it) of the Democratic party
in 1836-37. It was published by Cantine & Hogan for a
time. Mr. Cantine was succeed by H. A. Beebe, subse
quently of the Owego Gazette, who continued its publication
till 1841, when it was discontinued.
The Bradford Argus,
the oldest paper in the county, was originally founded as
the Anti-Masonic Democrat, started at Troy in or about 1830,
by O. P. Ballard. Dr. E. R. Utter bought the Democrat in
J[832-33, removed it to Towanda and changed its name to

325
the Bradford Argus and its politics to that of the Whig
party. Mr. Utter continued the Argus until 1834, when he
associated George Wayne Kinney and Dummer Lilley, prac
tical printers, in the publication of the paper, the firm being
known as Utter, Kinney & Lilley. This arrangement was
short- lived, Mr. Utter regaining the sole control again. ~In
1836 he sold the concern to Dummer Lilley, who con
tinued the paper until November, 1839, when he sold it to
Col. Elhanan Smith, B. F.'Powell and E. A. Parsons, who,
under the name of Smith, Powell & Parsons, continued the
publication till 1 841, when Col. Smith, who had been the
editor, sold his interest to Parsons & Powell, and Powell to
Parsons in 185 1, whereupon the latter became the sole pro
prietor of the paper. In November of the same year the es
tablish ment was burned to the ground, it being a total loss,
but was re-established by Mr. Parsons in the short space of
five weeks. Mr. Parsons continued to conduct the Argus
in the interests ofthe Whig party till that organization went
out of existence, then as a Republican paper till 1862, when
it withdrew from the Republican cause and supported the
" People's ticket" It became a Democratic organ in 1864
and was edited by Jacob DeWitt till 1866, when Mr. Par
sons placed his son, E. Ashmun, in charge of the paper,
who enlarged it, put in steam power and otherwise improved
it. The junior Parsons is still the editor ofthe Argus.
The Bradford Porter.
The first number of this paper was issued in June, 1840,
by Mr. E. S. Goodrich, in the interest of Gov. Porter, of
Pennsylvania, and continued so to do for a time ; but the
Governor's policy becoming distasteful to the editor he add
ed a prefix to the name in December, 1843, ^^^^ christened
it The Bradford Reporter, '
which remained unchanged till January, 1885. In i84i,the
Democrat having been discontinued, the Reporter became
the organ of the Democratic party in the county and so re-
(SS)

326
mained until the Free Soil controversy arose, when it es
poused the cause of " Free Soil, Free Speech, and Free
Men," and battled vigorously against the extension of the
" peculiar institution," being a zealous supporter of David
Wilmot and an efficient advocate of his measures to prevent
the spread of slavery. In 1845 Mr. Goodrich retired from
the paper, and for a short time E. O. & H. P. Goodrich con
ducted it; but in 1846 the former became the sole proprie
tor, and published the paper till 1863. He then surrendered
it to S. W. Alvord for one year, and again assumed control
and continued to edit and publish it until 1869, at which
date Mr. Alvord again succeeded to its control and manage
ment and so continued until 1879, when he quit the paper.
From 1879 to 1881 C. H. Allen was the local editor of the
paper and Mr. Goodrich the editor and proprietor, only
having before leased to Mr. Alvord. From 1881 to
1882 C. H. Allen was virtually editor of the paper, which
was owned by the Goodrich estate till February, 1882, when
it was sold to H. F. Marsh and J. E. Hitchcock, the former
being the editor-in-chief Marsh & Hitchcock continued
the publication of the Reporter till 1885, when it was con
solidated with the Towanda fournal under the name of
Reporter-fournal, the first issue being dated Jan. 8th. The
politics ofthe paper is Republican. The proprietors are —
H. F. Marsh, J. E. Hitchcock, D. M. Turner, C. H. Turner.
H. F. Marsh, editor ; C. H. Turner, local editor.
Upon the forniation of the Republican party the Reporter
became its organ in the county, and has ever since been im
mutable in its politics.
The Pennsylvania Backwoodsman
was issued in 1845-46 as a literary periodical by Henry
Booth and C. L. Ward.
The North Branch Democrat
was published a short time in 1850 as an anti-Wilmot or
gan, Wien Forney, of Philadelphia, being nominally the
editor and publisher.

327
The Bradford Times
was established and supported by the Democratic State
Central Committee, under the direction of C. L. Ward, J. F.
Means and V. E. Piollet, and first issued in June, 1856, by
D. McKinley Mason, who was the editor in charge. Mason
remained in charge of the paper until after the close of the
Buchanan campaign, when it was leased to John G. Fries,
of Bloomsburg, Pa., who continued its publication till some
time in 1857. In 1858 the material ofthe office was leased
to Chase & Keeler, who founded
The Bradford Herald,
which was also devoted to the interests of the Democratic
party. In 1859 O. D. Goodenough bought out Mr. Keeler
and the paper was continued for about a year by Chase and
Goodenough, who sold to Ferguson & Payne. The new
proprietors published the paper till about the beginning of
the year, when it went out of existence.
The Daily Argus,
the first daily newspaper published in Towanda, made its
.appearance in 1863 and- was continued for two weeks. It
was issued by E. A. Parsons in conjunction with the Brad
ford Argus. The Towanda Business. Item
was estabUshed in 1871, tht first number being issued Aug.
5th, by O. D. Goodenough and E. J. Clauson, and was a
live, spicy, independent local paper, though a small one. It
was enlarged during the second year to a twenty-four column
paper. Mr. Goodenough retired from the Item, Jan. i, 1873,
Mr. Clauson continuing its publication till the time of his
death in Dec, 1874. The paper then went into the hands of
Gen. PI. J. Madill, of whom Judson Holcomb and T. A.
Angus purchased the stock and material, and June i, 1875,
founded The Bradford Republican,
merging the Item in the new publication, being Indepen-

328
dent Republican in politics. With Mr. Holcomb editor-in-
chief the Republican was continued by Holcomb & Angus
till 1879, when C. L. Tracy purchased Mr. Angus's interest,
the paper having since been published by Holcomb & Tracy.
In 1882 C. H. Allen became associate editor with Mr. Hol
comb, a place which he still fills.
The Towanda fournal,
was established by D. M. Turner, editor and proprietor, in
May, 1873, the first number appearing on the 14th day of
that month. In Jan. 1882, C. H. Turner purchased an in
terest in the paper and was its local editor thenceforward
till its combination with the Reporter. The fournal was a
wide-awake, newsy paper, independent in politics.
The Towanda Daily fournal,
was edited and published by D. M. and C. H. Turner frorn
Oct 1882 till Oct 1883. The Towanda Gazette,
was established as a Greenback organ in 1879 by S. C.
Clizbe, who continued its publication for about one year.
At the same time he issued the Towanda Daily Gazette.
The Towanda Daily Review,
was founded by Alvord & Son, and the first nuniber of the
paper issued Aug. i, .1879, being Independent Republican
in politics. S. W. Alvord was the editor. April i, 1883,
W. H. Webb bought an interest in the paper, and on the
I oth of that month the Daily Review was enlarged from a
four to five column folio, and
The Towanda Weekly Review,
an eight column folio, established. Nov. 8th, 1883, W. H.
Webb became the sole proprietor and editor of both papers.
In March, 1884 he enlarged the Daily Review to a six
column folio ; and in April following changed the Weekly
Review to The Towanda Semi- Weekly Review,
of the same size as the enlarged Daily. On the 9th of July,

329
1884, S. W. Alvord again became the editor of the paper,
and shortly thereafter re-e.stablished the Weekly Review and
in October ensmalled " the Daily " to a five-column folio,
in which size it is still published.
January i, 1885, O. D. Goodenough and E. R.Thompson
leased both papers, changing the politics to conservative
Democratic, with Mr. Goodenough editor. June 15, 1885,
E. B. & F. C. McKee purchased the paper conditionally,
and since Jan. i, 1886, have been the owners and associated
editors. "The politics of the Review is independent
The True Greenbacker
Was published by the Greenback County Committee in
1878-9, under the editorial management of Frank G. John
son. The Missionary,
a religious journal, was edited by Rev. G. J. Porter and pub
lished in 1878-9 in the interest of the Universalist church.
The Knights of Honor Advocate
Was founded in 1878 by J. R. Kittredge, and represented'
the interests of the society which its name suggests. .In
1882 the paper was sold to a Boston party. In 1882 Mr.
Kittredge also founded the
Knights and Ladies of Honor Record,
which was continued here till 1883, when the paper was re
moved to St. Louis, Mo., where it is still being published.
by Mrs. J. R. Kittredge.
The Bradford County School Journal
Was founded in October, 1879, through the efforts of the
leading teachers of the county, ^-as edited by them and de
voted to educational interests. Its publication was discon
tinued after a year and a half
The Towanda Record,
originally established as the Dushore Record, was issued by
J. W. Gould in Nov., 1882, and continued as an Indepen
dent paper for about three months. /

330
The Mercury
was a small eight-page paper devoted to amateur journal
ism, and was published by Hiram T. Mercur, President of
the National Aryateur Press Association, from 1881 to 1885.
BANKS.
772^ Towanda Bank (the first) was established in 1834-
35. The first officers were: Thomas Elliott, Presi
dent; Win. B. Storm, Ca.shier; the active directors being
Col. Jo.seph Kingsbury, Edward Overton, Col. Hiram Mix,
H. S. Mercur, L. S. Ellsworth (Athens), Judge Harry
Morgan (Wysox). The bank was opened in the basement
of Thomas Elliott's dwelling hou.se, which then stood where
the Argus building now is. A more suitable building*
was afterwards erected on the opposite side of the street,
where business was done until the failure of the bank..
During the first years of the existence of the bank it did a
good business, established credit, and at one time is said to
have been able to command over ^700,000. In about 1837
Mr. Elliott resigned and Col. Joseph Kingsbury became
President. After a number of changes the stock finally
(about 1841) passed into dishonest hands, resulting in a
failure in 1843. However, it is but just to state, that with
the exception of one person, those participating in the ad
vantages growing out of the failure were not residents of
Towanda. C. L. Ward, Esq., and Thomas Dyer were the last Presi
dent and Cashier, the last office having previously been
filled, for a short time, by a Mr. Vaningan.
In 1850, Hon. John Laporte, Col. G. F. Mason and
B, S. Russell began a private banking business under the
firm name of Laporte, Mason & Co. Mr. Russell sold out
his interest about 1859, andthe business was- continued
under the firm name of Laporte, Mason & Co. About the
year i860 Mr. Russell and J. K. Vallance began banking
under the firm name of B. S. Russell & Co., and in 1863 in-
* This is the building now occupied by the Towanda Gas Company's new ofi&co.

331
creased their business by buying out Laporte & Mason.
After Mr. Vallance's death the " company" was at different
times H. S. Mercur; Ulysses Mercur; and M. C. Mercur,
who in 1865 succeeded to the sole proprietorship of the
business, which he continued till 1873, when meeting with a
loss of ^1,050,000, closed his bank after his depositors
had drawn out their moneys.
The' First National Bank of Towanda was chartered, under
the National Banking Law, July 19, 1863, and immediately
commenced business with a capital of ;^ 100,000, which in
February, 1865, was increased, to ^125,000. The original
officers were — Gordon F. Mason, President; N. N. Betts,
Cashier; directors, Joseph Powell, C. S. Russell, O. D. Bart
lett, E. H. Smith, Geo. Stevens, E. W. Hale, M. E. Solomon
and J. O. Frost. Jan. 13, 1865, Mr. Mason was succeeded by
E. H. Smith as President, who in turn was followed by Jo
seph Powell, who assumed the duties of that office Jan. 13,
1870, having ever since been the executive officer. Mr. Betts,
still acting in the capacity of Cashier, has filled his place
with efficiency since the organization of the bank.
The new bank, erected in 1874, occupies the site of the
old banking-house on Main street The building was de
signed by J. E. Fleming, architect, and is elegantly and con
veniently arranged. It is built of brick, 40x70 feet, two sto
ries in height, and is provided with fire and burglar proof
vaults and safes of the most approved make, besides being
fitted up with special reference to the comfort and conven
ience of the, customers and patrons of the bank, as well as.
its employes.
The institution does a general banking business, and is
one of the most successful and prosperous banks in the
country. The following figures will be found interesting :
Since the incorporation ofthe bank the total net profits have
been ;^470,034 ; dividends paid,- ^362,1 25 ; undivided profits,
Jan. I, 1886,^107,909.
March i, 1886, the First National Bank of Towanda made
the subjoined report :

332
RESOURCES.
Loans and Discounts  ^644,991 34
United States bonds and other securities , . . . ... 148,12400
Due from Banlis and Treasurer U. S . . . • . • - 112,867 50
Legal tender notes, specie and bank notes  67,220 69
Other cash items .  2,871 69
Real estate, furniture and fixtures  .... 22,400 00
E.'cpenses and taxes paid ...  3'194 66
g 1, 001 ,669 88
LIv!fBILITIES.
Capital . .  . . iSl2S,ooo 00
Surplus fund and undivided profits . ... ... 113,113 36
Circulation   111,840 00
Deposits   . . 651,716 52
11,001,669 88
For the year ending Jan. i, 1866, the aggregate amount
of deposits was ,^6, 371,982; aggregate amount of loans,
^3,409,421. The present directors of the bank are — Joseph Powell,
President; N. N. Betts, Cashier; Charles L. Tracy, Vice-
President ; James H. Hawes, R. A- Mercur, E. W. Hale, H.
L. Scott, R. O. Smith, Geo. Stevens. The efficient and gen
tlemanly clerks are— W. H. Dodge, O. P. Smith, L. M. Os
borne and J. D. Stryker.
— In 1 866 G. F. Mason & Co. began doing a private bank
ing business, which was continued until 1871, when the firm
failed. The Citizens National Bank of Towanda was chartered
June 29, 1876, and was organized with the following
officers and directors : J. P. Kirby, President ; Geo. A.
Guernsey, Cashier; N. C. Elsbree, M. H- Taning, J. P.
Kirby, J. F. Means, P. D. Morrow, B. M. Peck, Henry
Streeter, J. L. Kent, M. B. Wright, N. L. Lenheim, P. R.
Ackley, Directors.
J. P. Kirby was succeeded by E. T. Fox as President,
Dec. 1-8, 1876, and Mr. Guernsey by G. W. Buck, as Cash
ier, Oct 3, 1880. The Citizens National Bank is in Mer
cur block, on the corner of Park and Main streets, in
rooms formerly occupied by M. C MercHr as his'banking

3:',3

place. It is provided with the most perfect vaults, safes
and locks; making it a most desirable place for money on
deposit The institution does all kinds of legitimate bank
ing, and is in a most prosperous condition as may be seen
from the following comparisons :
October report 1885-

October report 1879— Deposits  875,800
'  —Discounts  14»,ll00
" " " -Surplns  2,000
" *' *' Volume Df busi
ness done  291,000

-Deposits  S286,U00
—Discounts  335,000
—Surplus  21,000
Volume of busi
ness done  508,000

Since 1879 the bank has declared an annual dividend of
;^9,ooo. March i, 1886, the bank made the annexed report :
RESOURCES.
Loans and Discounts . .... . . . 8345,393 40
Overdrafts . .  .' . . 5,606 61
U. S. Bonds to secure circulation  50,000 00
Other stocks, bonds, and mortgages . . ... 28,405 78
Due from approved reserve agents ....  26,692 34
Due from other National Banks  10,932 71
Due from State Banks and bankers  . . 2,562 29
Real estate, furniture, and fixtures  9>479 7^
Current expenses and taxes paid . . ... . , . . IT244 80
Premiums paid   4,000 00
Checks and other cash items . . .... . . 967 00
Bills of oiher Banks. . . ._  1,33000
Fractional paper currency, nickels and pennies  63 78
Specie  11,600 00
Legal tender notes  13,812 00
Redemption fund with U.S. Treasurer, 5 per cent, circulation . . 2,250 00

Total  . SS14.340 47
LIABILITIES.
Capital stock paid in  . . . . ^150,000 00
Surplus fund  . . 23,000 00
Undivided profits .... ....'. .  3,99° 73
National Bank notes outstanding . ...  45.000 00
Dividends unpaid  . 72 00
Individual deposits subject to check  149,600 17
Demand certificates of' deposit. ... . . . 141,859 70
Due to other National Banks  762 28
Due to State Banks and bankers  .... 55 59

Total  ^514.340 47
The present officers ^nd directors are : E. T. Fox, Presi-
(TT)

334
dent ; Geo. W. Buck, Cashier ; E. T. Fox, Benj. M. Peck,
S. W. Little, Wm. Dittrich, P. R. Ackley, Benj. Kuykendall,
E. O. Macfariane.
The punctual, efficient, and obliging clerks are O. L.
Haverly and D. C. Mitten. FIRE DEPARTMENT *
Among the first things to which the attention of the Coun
cil was directed after the organization of the borough, was
the protection of its inhabitants from fire. Up to 1837 only
four fires had occurred in Towanda. On the i6th of De
cember, 1837, a committee, consisting of O. D. Bartlett, M.
C. Mercur, G. A. Mix and Wm. B. Storm, was appointed to
examine stoves, chimneys, fire-places, etc., and report in re
lation to the same. •
At the same meeting Ordinance 24 was passed by the
Council, laying a tax of ^150 for the purchase of lOO fire
buckets, necessary fire hooks and ladders.
Ordinance No. 25 was passed, providing for four fire war
dens each year.
January 12, 1838, Enos Tompkins was authorized to pro-
cuie hooks and ladders for the use ofthe borough.
June 18, 1838, the Council directed the High Constable
to see that the fire engine was put in order and kept under
shelter. The first engine of the village was a " rotary," and was
operated by cranks on each side with four men to each. It
had no " suction hose," and the box was filled with water
by the Bucket Company. The leading hose was about six
teen feet long. It was named the " Alley," and did service
until the burning of the " dry kiln " on the river bank, in
1849, when it was condemned and thrown into the Susque
hanna. March 11, 1839, the Council passed a resolution to appro
priate ^125 forthe erection of an engine house, to be located
» We are greatly indebted to J. V. Geiger for the preparation of nearly the whole of thia
article.

335
on the public square, between the Court House and " fire
proof" The building was put up at a cost of ;^li8 by John
Morris, and stood on the ground now occupied by the pres
ent Court House. It was one story, sixteen feet front, and
forty feet deep. It was subsequently moved to the lot now
occupied by the double brick residence nearly opposite the,
post-office, and the Franklin hand engine was housed there
until the completion of the present engine house in 1856.
March 30, 1840, the Council passed the following resolu
tion : " Resolved, That E. W. Baird is hereby appointed
principal director ofthe fire department, and William Elwell
assistant director of said department, for the ensuing year"
— the first mentioned Chief Engineer and Assistant.
The truck for carrying the hooks and ladders was con
structed out of a part of a one-horse lumber wagon, was given
a long reach and otherwise transformed, and was in use tor
several years.
By resolution of the Council April 21, 1842, the engine
house was changed into a " market house," and for several
years the " engine house war" was kept up until finally it
it was agreed that the engine and truck should have a place
in the rear of the building and that the front should be used
forthe "city market"
The old fire department collapsed when the engine was
thrown in the river in 1849. There were but few fires until
1852-53, when they were so frequent, often two in a week,
that the citizens became alarmed and measures at once were
taken to purchase an engine and the necessary hose. The
Council invited loans forthe purchase of fire engine and
apparatus, and in a few days ^1555 were raised. Dec. 1853
the Burgess contracted with L. Button & Co., of Waterford,
N. Y., for an engine of 28-man power arid 500 feet of leather
leading "hose. At a meeting of the Council, March 25,
1854, on motion of James Mackinson the name of the new
engine was styled " Franklin No. i." The engine arrived
and was accepted by the committee on examination,
April 7, 1854. A company was nearly enrolled at this time.

336
At a meeting of the committee appointed to enroll mem
bers for the " Franklin Fire Company" and of the enrolled
members of said company held at the Court House, April
II, 1854, Robt C. Simpson, W. C. Bogart and James -Kins
man were appointed a committee to draft by-laws for the
organization and government of the company.
By a special act of the Legislature the ground now oc
cupied by the engine house was secured, " allowing a build
ing to be erected on the county ground to be used jointly
by the county and the borough." June 21, 1856, the work
on the engine house was let to John Beidleman (the brick
work) and H. L. Lamoreux (the wood work). The com
pany have occupied the building since January 20, 1857,
and have fitted it up in a manner that makes it an attractive
place to hold their meetings each month.
Fires becoming frequent in 1867-68, the Franklin Com
pany deemed it necessary to procure a steam fire engine.
A subscription paper was circulated and a sufficient sum
was promptly raised to purchase a Silsby's rotary steam
engine and 500 feet of hose. It was first used at a fire which
destroyed Ward and Montanye's barn, Dec. 11, 1870.
The company has continued to defend the citizens from
fire and are now, as they ever have been, active and vigilant
in the performance of their duties as firemen. At an early
stage of their organization they adopted the following motto :
"Always on hand, and ready for action I" and right gallantly
have they carried it out, as our citizens have time and again
witnessed. During the war for the preservation of the Union, mem
bers of the Franklin company could be found in the various
military organizations that went to the front from this vicini
ty — many of them never returning to the home of childhood
or adoption. The company has a carefully preserved list of
these members.
Among the original members of the Franklin Company,
and of whom the present members are justly proud, we find
the names of D. Wilmot, E. O. Goodrich, J. G. Patton, Jas.

337
Macfarlane, C. S. Russell, Joseph Powell, E. A. Parsons,
Ulysses Mercur, H. Booth (Judge, Chicago), Wm. Elwell,
Joseph Pratt (Judge, Philadelphia), E. Overton, W. T. Da
vies, Qeo. D. Montanye, John W. Mix, M. C; Mercur. The
names of prominent citizens could be given by scores. But
the above list shows that the company had among its active
workers men that are identified " with the Nation " as well as
with the Franklin Fire Company. The following is a fact of
which the company may well feel proud : " From the or
ganization ofthe company on April 1 1, 1854, to April, 1886,
never had a member of the Franklin Company been before
the Court charged with any crime !"
Naiad Engine and Hose Co., No. 2.
This company was instituted April 24, 1855 ; reorganized
April 15, 1870, and incorporated July 8, 1 881. It was at
first designed for boys under 17 years of age. However,
this ruling did not last long, and now by the conditions of
the charter no one can be a member of the company under
18 years, the whole number of members being limited to-
fifty. The company is made up of active young men who
have especially distinguished themselves in their prompt
ness at the fires, ever endeavoring to sustain their motto —
" First at the Fire!' The property of the company
consists of two hand engines, a " Button" and a " Cow
ing," parade carriage, service jumper, and about 700 feet
of hose. The Naiad Parlors in Mercur's are elegantly
furnished and second to none in the Northern Tier. The
annual receptions given by the company have always been
of the first order and largely attended. For two years the
company sustained an excellent musical organization.
Lin-ta Steam Fire Co., No. j.
This company was instituted Sept 28, 1857, and incor
porated May, 1 87 1. It is composed of the best citizens of
Towanda, and has a membership of 50, the charter limiting
the number to 100. The company owns a handsome two-
story brick engine house on Poplar street, which, together

338
with hose carriage is worth $6,000. Up to the time ,of the
establishment of water company, the Lin-ta's owned a rotary
steam fire engine with hose carriage and attachments ; and
for several years sustained the Lin-ta Band — one ofthe best
and most finely equipped bands, in instruments and uni
forms, in the State. W.K.Marshall is the only charter
member still belonging to the company, and is perhaps the
only one that has filled all the offices.
Mantua Hook and Ladder Co., No. .^z.
This company was organized in March, 1871, and re
organized in 1884. It has a very fine new hook and ladder
truck, supplied with buckets, picks, axes, extension lad
ders, etc., and comprises about 30 active members. The
company have rooms in the Franklin engine house.

From 1853 to 1873 the total number of fires was 63, and
the total number' of buildings destroyed, 156; from Aug.
1873 to April, 1886 the number of buildings burned in
Towanda was 81. The most disastrous fire the town ever
had was March. 12, 1847. LOCAL ELEVATIONS. I
Table Rock — above tide  . '. 1317 ft
Summit, near Table Rock  1340
Summit of Towanda Hills, about  i4SO
Plateau between Towanda and Sugar Creeks,average, 1 200
Top of dam of Towanda Water Works on Patton's
Run  X015
Top of dam of distributing reservoir  958.6
Railroad, bridge — top of rail, west end  735-8
Public bridge — west end at floor  732.9
Water Table to Court House  727.6
Main street, in front of Court House  732
Bridge street with Main .  735
" Second  777
" Third  802

339
Charles street, above Fifth  910 ft
At the angle of street near Jas. Wood's  978 "
South borough line  1098
High water mark, March 17, 1865  722.6
Dec, 1878  '. 714.6
Low " " Nov., 1882  693.8
SOCIETIES.
Union Lodge, No. 108, (Masonic) was chartered March 7,
1807, and was instituted April 3rd following, by Jos. Kings
bury at the house of Amos Mix, in Wysox, with the follow
ing officers: Horatio Grant, W. M. ; Amos Mix, S. W. ;
Ebenezer Tuttle, J. W.; Josiah Grant, Treas.; Geo. Scott,
Sec; Wm. Myer, Steward ; Cyp Grant, S. D.; Wm. B.
Whitney, J. D.; Wm. B Foster, Tiler. As set forth in the
charter the meetings of the lodge were to be held alter
nately in the townships of Orwell and Wysox. This ar
rangement was observed till about 181 5- 16, when the house
of Wm. Myer in Wysox was selected as the place of meet
ing, and continued as such till 1829. Owing to the anti-
Masonic movements at this time the lodge only met on
rare occasions till November 14, 1839, when a meeting was
held at the house of Wm. Myer and the lodge thoroughly
and energetically revived. Since that time its meetings
have been continuous. Dec. 1839, the scene of its labors
was changed to Towanda, where its meetings were at first
held in the old " Fire Proof," and .since 1856-57 in the
King-sbury block. The lodge is the .strongest in the county
and has a membership of 184. The lodge works under its
old charter and preserves its old records with much pride,
finding in them many names identified not only with Brad
ford county's history but carried on the rolls of State and
National fame. Lodge meets first Wednesday of each month.
Its co-ordinate branches are :
Chapter No. 161, chartered 1846. Meets second Wednes
day of each month ;
Northern Commandery, No. 16, chartered 1856. Meets
fourth Wednesday of each month. ^

340
Bradford Lodge No. 167, I. 0. 0. F, was chartered
March 9, 1846, and instituted July i, 1846, with the follow
ing officers: .William Elwell, N. G.; Stephen Pierce, V.
G.; Chas. Reed, Sec; O. R. Tyler, Treas.; E. W. Baird,
As.st Sec. Since the in.stitution of the lodge 556 members
have belonged. C. S. Russell is the only one of the char
ter members still connected with the society. During the
first thirty-six years of the existence of the lodge in a
membership of 533. only 14 died.
Bradford Lodge is the wealthiest in the county and ranks
second in membership (98). On her roll-book may be
seen almost scores of familiar names, who have filled places
oflionor in the county. State and Nation. Night of meet
ing, Monday evening of ?ach week.
Bradford Encampment of Patriarchs, No. /f.i, (I. O. O. F.)
was chartered June 22, 1846, and instituted Aug. 27, of the '
same year, with the following bfficers : Wm. H. Strickland,
C P.; D. C. Salisbury. H. P.; E. W. Morgan, S. W.; G. F.
Mason, J. W.; I. H. Stephens, Scribe. The society was re
organized Aug. 26, 1872, with E. J. Clauson, C. P.; C. S.
Rus.sell, H. P.; G. W. Ryan, S. W.; Warren Hill, J. W.; J.
V. Churchill, Scribe ; A. J. Noble, Treas.; Chas. Fraley, I.
S.; Abel Barner, O, S.; and has a membership of 46. Meets
the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month.
Towanda Lodge, No. 2go, Knights of Pythias. — This
order which was first introduced to the public as a military
organization, taking its origin in the U. S. Army during the
late war, is a beneficiary society, having for its object the
mutual aid and relief of its members in distress and want.
The Towanda lodge, the first in the county, was chartered
April 6, 1 87 1. At its organization the principal officers
were H. S. Clark, V. P.; H. J. Madill, C. C; G. H. Horton,
V. C; A. D. Harding, K. of R. S. Cash fund on hand,
,$3,000; number of members, about 90; lodge meets Tues
day evening of each week.-
Watkins Post, No. 68, G. A. R., was organized June 17,
1867, with H. A. Frink, Commander, and was kept up till

341
1869 when it was disbanded. The Post was reorganized
Dec. 19, 1873, with the following officers : H. J. Madill,
Commander ; J. E. Pleming, S. V. C. ; James Foster, J. V. C. ;
D. W. Scott, Q. M. ; W. B. Kelly, Surg. ; O. D. Lyon, Chap
lain ; E. Overton, Jr., O. D. ; D. L. Sweeny, O. G. ; C. F.
Cross, Adj. The Post is one of the most active in the
county and has a membership of 100. Meets Friday even
ing of each week.
Watkins Camp. Sons of Veterans, No. 75, was chartered
Nov. 17, 1884. The original officers were — G. M. Watkins,
Captain ; Thos. Miles, First Lieutenant ; Jonathan Bennett,
Second Lieutenant ; H. M. Dodge, O. Sg't ; Wallace Har
ris, Chaplain ; Ephraim Lewi.'s, Color Sg't ; Chas. Rutty,
Sg't of G. ; Elmer Lewis, Corp'l of G. Number of mem
bers, 25 ; night bf meeting, Tuesday evening of each week.
Women's ReUef Corps of the G. A. R., at Towanda, was or
ganized Dec. 29, 1885. Its primary object is the dispens
ing ofcharity among such soldiers and their families as need
aid. The first officers elected are — President, Mrs. Maria
A. Watkins ; Senior Vice President, Mary D. Newton ; Jun
ior Vice President, Cecil L. Walke ; Secretary, Clara A. St.
John ; Treasurer, Ella V. Myer ; Ctiaplain, D. W. Scott ;
Conductor, D. J. Sweet ; Assistant Conductor, W. T. Hor
ton ; Guard, Bell Rockwell ; Associate Guard, Harriet T.
Wilson. The Corps meets every first and third Wednesday
of each month.
Order of the B'on Hall — Branch No. j (beneficial) char
tered May 21, 1 88 1. Original officers — J. R. Kittredge, C.
J. ; F. J. Hungerford, Vice ; W. J. Bresee, Accountant ; W.
G. Gordon, Cashier ; D. S. Pratt,. Med. Ex. ; C. F. Cross,
Prelate ; Geo. S. Estell, Adjuster ; W. K. Marshall, Herald ;
Frank Vought, Watchman ; John Northrup, Vidette. Num
ber of members, 26 ; night of meeting, third Wednesday of
each month.
Towanda Council, No. ^j2. Royal Arcanum (beneficial),
chartered Oct. 20, 1880. Original officers — W. B. Kelly,
Regent ; L. B. Coburn, V. Regent ; S. M. Woodburn, Ora-
(UU)

342
tor ;D. H. Turner, P. Regent; A. S. Gordon, Sec'y ; W. J.
Bresee, Col. ; M. J. Long, Treasurer; A. D. Dye, Chap. ;
W. S. Rickey, Guide ; C. F. Taylor, Warden;. E. D. Run-
dell, Sentinel.
CathoUc Mutual Benefit Association — Branch No. ig (bene
ficial), was founded through the instrumentality of John Sul
livan, of Branch No. 19. The charter was granted Jan. 29,
1 88 1 . The original officers were — John Sullivan, President ;
Wm. Foyle. First V. P.; David Sheridan, Second V. P.;
John McNamara, R. Sec. ; Geo. Quigley, Asst Sec. ; Mau
rice Condon, F. Sec. ; John Arnold, Treas. ; J. C. Blum,
Marshal; F. J. Blum, Guard. Number of members, 21 ;
meets first and third Thursdays of each month.
Knights of Honor — Lodge No. §7 was chartered Jan. 14,
1875. The charter members were — C. H. Allen, L. R.
Frost, E. W. Venable, S. M. Woodburn, G. S. McCabe, W.
K, Marshall, F. H. Mathews, H. G. W. Heath, C. M. Myer.
Number of members, 73 ; meets every Monday evening.
Knights and Ladies of Honor — Mystic Lodge, No. fo, was
chartered April i, 1879. The charter members were— J. R.
Kittredge, Elizabeth A. Kittredge, S, M. Woodburn, M. E.
Woodburn, John Braund, Rachel D. Braund, G. A, Dayton,
Dorcas M. Dayton, C. D. Passage, Mary A. Passage, F. E.
Post, Anna S. Post, C. M. Myer, M. Frank Myer, S. W.
Rodgers, Mary A. Rodgers, O. D. Wickham, Hannah J.
Wickham, S. G. Titus, Alice M. Titus, Frank Rosenfield,
Mary E. Aldrich. Number of menlbers, 40 ; meets the sec
ond and fourth Wednesdays of each month.
Equitable Aid Union, No. §00, was chartered January, 1885.
Original officers — C. S. Russell, President ; Jesse Myer, Sec. ;
C. C. Mower, Accountant ; M. J. Long, Treasurer. Num
bers over 50 members ; meets first Wednesday of each
month.

Hebrew Congregation have held services annually for about
fifteen years, on New Year's day, a Rabbi officiating. Fbr
four or five years the meetings of the congregation have

343
been held several times each year. The number of mem
bers is about 1 8. NATIONAL GUARD.
A company of the National Guard of Pennsylvania was
organized in Towanda, January 20th, 1876, and the follow
ing commissioned officers were elected, viz : Joseph H. Hor
ton, Captain ; D. L. Sweeney, First Lieutenant, and J. An
drew Wilt, .Second Lieutenant.
The company was assigned to the Twelfth Regiment as
Company K, and attended its first inspection by the Gov
ernor and Adjutant-General at Williamsport, May 19, 1876.
It performed a week's tour of camp duty at Philadelphia
during the Centennial, in August, 1876. Captain Horton
removed from the State, and D. L. Sweeney was elected
Captain on July 21st, 1876, and at the same time J. A. Wilt
was promoted First Lieutenant and Corporal John Taylor
promoted Second Lieutenant.
The company left Towanda July 21, 1877, and served
three weeks during the riots, and during this time was sta
tioned at Tyrone and Altoona, Pa.
In 1878 Captain Sweeney ..removed from Towanda, and
Lieut. Wilt was promoted to Captain, Dec. 8th, 1878, John
Taylor to First Lieutenant, and Oliver D. Lyon to Second
Lieutenant. In 1879 the company was assigned to the Ninth Regi
ment. ' I
Since 1880 the company has performed a week's tour of
camp duty each year, and has always ranked as one of the
best companies in the Guard.
The officers and members of the company devoted con
siderable time to rifle practice, and as a result, in all con
tests of the company in firing hy file or volley, made the high
est scores of any company in the Ninth Regiment. Private
John M. Edson, in 1880, and Capt J. A. Wilt, in 1882, were
selected as one of the team from Pennsylvania to go to
Creedmoor to compete with teams from the other States.\
Capt Wilt was also a member of the Third Brigade team at
Gettysburg in 1884.

344
Fir.st Lieutenant John Taylor resigned Feb. i8th, 1881,
and O. D. Lyon was promoted to First Lieutenant and Ser
geant John Henley to Second Lieutenant, April 19th, 1881.
Lieut. O. D. Lyon resigned Dec. 17th, 1884. On the 3d of
February, 1885, Sergeant John Taylor was again promoted
to First Lieutenant, and resigned Dec. 1 5th, -i 885.
An order was issued in December, 1885, disbanding the
company, but a hearing was granted by the Governor, and
m present writing (April 20, 1886,) the matter is still pend
ing. THE TOWANDA GAS COMPANY
Was originally chartered in 1859, as the Towanda Gas and
Water Company. In 1879 the company released its Vvater
franchise in favor of the Towanda Water Company. In
1870 active operations were begun in the erection of suita
ble buildings for the manufacture of gas, which was first fur
nished for consumption in November of that year. The
first officers chosen in 1869 were J. M. Ward, President;
John W. Means, Secretary; C. S. Russell, Treasurer. In
May, 1869, E. T. Elliott succeeded Mr Ward, who in turn
was succeeded by Henry Streeter in 1877, who is still the
executive officer ofthe company. The other present officers
are N. N. Betts, Sec'y ; Henry Streeter, Treasurer ; C. P.
Spalding, Superintendent, a place which he has filled since
1869. The enterprise is a commendable one, and is of no
little importance to the business interests and convenience
ofthe villagers. Seven miles of main pipes have been laid,
supplying over 200 families and 52 street lamps. The price
of gas is ^2.50 per thousand feet.
THE TOWANDA WATER WORKS
Was chartered in 1879. In 1879-80 the Wiley Construc
tion Company, of Greenfield, Mass., forming a part of the
Towanda Water Company, laid iron piping from Patton's
Run to Towanda, receiving the water in a reservoir, from
which it is distributed throughout the town as far back as
Mechanic street by distributing pipes. Fifty hydrants have

34.5
been placed at proper points, to protect the entire borough
in case of fires. The water supply from Patton's Run not
being sufficient for the whole year, a pumping station was
put in in 1881, which forces water from the Susquehanna to
the receiving reservoir at the rate of 1,200 gallons per min
ute. The water thus supplied the town bears a very fine
chemical analysis and is used for culinary and all other pur
poses. The hotels, offices and 320 families are now using
it. The water supply is a matter of much consideration and
value to the town. E. T. Fox is President of the Company,
and C. Scannell, Superintendent THE BOARD OF TRADE.
On Monday evening, Feb. i, 1886, pursuant to a notice in
the Reporter-fournal made after consultation with promi
nent business men, a meeting was held in the Grand Jury
room to discuss the advisability of forming a Board of Trade
for Towanda. At that meeting the unanimous sentiment of
those present, comprising a majority ofthe leading business
men of Towanda, was that such an organization was desira
ble, and the necessary preliminary steps were taken. The
Chairman, Hon. C. S. Russell, appointed a committee on
constitution and by-laws, and after mutual discussion the
meeting adjourned for two weeks. At the appointed time
the second or adjourned meeting was held in the room of
the Town Council, and the constitution and by-laws were
adopted. By the constitution the last Monday evening in
February was fixed for the annual meeting, and accordingly
on the evening of February 22d, the persons interested
gathered in the Town Council room, signed the constitution
and by-laws, paid their membership fee, and elected officers
for the first year. Thirty-nine persons and firms joined, in
cluding the leading manufacturers, bankers, merchants, and
other business men of the town. The officers elected for
the first year were as follows : President, Charles L. Tracy ;
First Vice-President, H. F. Marsh ; Second Vice-President,
D. T. Evans ; Treasurer, Geo. W. Buck ; Secretary, L. R.
Frost; Trustees, I. O. Blight, M. C. Mercur, N. N. Betts.

346
CEMETERIES.
The first persons who died while the county was yet new
were buried at Cole's, and in a burial ground which was
started on Second street in Towanda village.
Riverside Cemetery.
Harry Spalding donated a strip of land 75 feet wide in the
" Northern Liberties," extending from William .street to the
river, for burial purposes, and thus .started what is known
as " Riverside Cemetery " — it being on a high bank over
looking the Susquehanna. Dec. 21, 1839, Hiram Mix deed
ed to Wm. B. Storm, H. S. Mercur and EnOs Tompkins,
trustees, a plot of ground of about two and one-half acres
immediately south and adjacent to the Spalding grant, " in
trust to be forever used as a burial ground." The Neal ad
dition, of about the same area, has since been made adjoin
ing the original plot on the north. In 1863 E.' W. Hale
and B. S. Russell were appointed trustees in the place of
Storm and Tompkins, Russell since having been succeeded
by C. M. Manville. Many ofthe pioneers and distinguished
personages, among them the celebrated David Wilmot, are
sepulchred at Riverside. Oak Hill Cemetery
Was incorporated Sept 18, 1882, and is situated one mile
from the Court House, near the northern boundary of To
wanda borough, on lands recently owned by Wealthy Ann
Kingsbury, containing 30 acres. The beaatiful view of the
Susquehanna and valley, hills and mountains, together with
a natural and perfect drainage— soil of loam and gravel —
makes this place especially adapted to the purposes of a
cemetery. The plan of the grounds, beautifully and sys
tematically arranged, was made by Peter B. Mead, of New
York, and comprises 821 family lots and several hundred
single grave lots. Oak Hill in time will be one of the finest
burial places in the State.
The officers of the corporation are — Joseph Powell, Presi
dent ; C. P. Welles, Sec'y ; W. Henry Dodge, Treasurer ;

347
Joseph Powell, C. B. Porter, Wm. Dittrich, Executive Com
mittee ; Wm. Little, Wm. Dittrich, C. P. Welles, Joseph
Powell, C. L. Tracy, C. B. Porter, R. A. Mercur, C. S. Rus
sell, Geo. Stevens, Directors.
The Catholics have two cemeteries. The old one is situ
ated some distance above Riverside, on the river bank ; and
the " new cemetery, beautifully situated and syste^iatically
plotted, on a rise of ground in North Towanda.^
NOTES.
— The greatest business depression ever known in To
wanda was in 1842-43.
— The Spring of 1840 is memorable in Towanda as "the
great small pox .scare."
— The social circles of Towanda twenty and thirty years
ago, were especially noted for the large number of literary
characters belonging to them. '
— The " Hay Scales," which atood where the music stand
now does, was for many years a noted rendezvous for the
villagers. 1
— " The Overshot " takes its name from the fact of the
building of an overshot saw-mill on a little stream in the
north-west corner of Towanda township, many years ago,
by C. L. Ward and J. F. Means.
— Aug. 12, 1885, Barnum, Bailey & Hutchinson's great
consolidated show exhibited at Towanda. The crowd was
the largest ever assembled in the plac?, estimated from 15,-
000 to 25,000 persons. The assemblage was remarkable for
its orderliness.
— The first show ever held in Towanda was in 1820, in
the horse barn of Wm. Means. The company traveled by
wagons. The animals on exhibition .were a lion, Bengal
tiger and monkey. The music consisted of a hand-organ,
and the only performing was done by the monkey and lion.
A large section of the county was represented at the exhi
bition. The price of admission was 12^ cents and 25 cents.
— The First Circus ever held in Towanda was Harrington's

348
in the year 1829. The tent was pitched in the public
public square, and exhibitions given every afternoon
and evening for three or four days. The performances con
sisted of ring-riding, lofty tumbHng, clown singing, etc.
" Master Leroy," a lad of eight years was the pet of the-
troupe, and did marvelous feats in horseback riding, consid
ering his age. So popular was he in the town, that Leroy
Woodru^, then a child unnamed, was so called after him.
Mr. Harrington traveled with wagons. Anotable feature ofhis
exhibition was that all his perform ing horses were spotted. The
circus created a great sensation and was largely attended by
people from various parts of the county. The price of ad
mission was a " levy " (i2j^c.) and 25c. It is said that the
circus had so much pleased the village boys that for
months after they could be found in some secluded place
turning somersaults, standing on their heads, etc.
— " Rev. Mr. Thacker preached and organized a Presby
terian church at the house of Rudolph Fox, prior to 1800,
which had only a short and feeble existence. Minor York
was the first regular minister of this denomination."
— Among the first teachers in the Foster neighborhood
may be ' mentioned Catharine Frisbie, in about 181 1, who
was followed by Israel Morse (or Moss), and Lucy Granger.
Those of the Towanda hills were James Crooks, Binona
Finch (about 1817-18), Wm. Riley, Nancy Smith, Mr.
Farnsworth, and Mr. Hart. On the hills above Sugar Creek,
John W. Bingham, Dr. Alexander, Calvin Sellard, Elizabeth
Fisher. Schools were taught here as early as 1806.
towanda's PRINCIPAL BUSINESS INTERESTS.
The Towanda Iron Manufacturing Company
Was chartered July 23, 1870. July 9, 1870, those that had
subscribed for stock met to organize the company. Col. G.
F, Mason was called to the chair, and S. W. Alvord chosen
Secretary. Thirty-one thousand dollars was fixed upon as
the capital stock, and committees were appointed to draw
up by-laws, to visit other works, and to determine a suitable

349
place for location. At the same meeting, Col. G. F. Mason,
N. C. Elsbree, H. L. Scott, J. A. Codding, T. C. DeLano,
Wm. Griffis and Geo. Stevens were elected Directors, and
A. G. Mason, Secretary and Treasurer. Aug. 4, 1870, the
stockholders met and voted to add '^20,000 to the capital
stock, and the directors were instructed to proceed to erect a
bar iron and nail mill. At a meeting of the directors, July
II, 1 87 1, Col. G. F. Mason was elected President June 11,
1872, Col. Mason resigned, 'and H. L. Scott waTs elected
to fill his place. July 2, 1872, Mr. Scott resigned and ac
cepted the office of Secretary and Treasurer, whereupon Col.
J. F Means was made President. In November, 1873, the
capital stock of the company was increased to ^125,000. The
building, which is located in South Towanda, was completed
and the manufacture of nails commenced in the Fall of 1872.
The establishment consists of main building, 75x150 feet,
with two wings, each 40x60 feet. All contain three double
puddling furnaces, four heating furnaces, a nail plate mill, a
puddle bar mill, scrap train, thirty-one nail machines, a set
of shears for preparing scrap iron for heating furnaces, a
powerful fan blower, and other machinery of various kinds.
The motive power is furnished by five engines, the factory
having a capacity of 250 kegs of nails per day. Iron and
steel nails of all sizes and styles are manufactured from pig
iron, and the Towanda nails have achieved s^n enviable repu
tation in the market as first-class goods. Employment is
given toTi5 men and boys. In 1876 the old company sus
pended, and the factory remained inactive till December,
1879' when the establishment was leased and finally pur
chased by R. A. Bostley & Co., of Milton, Pa. The new
company at once began repairs, and operations were again
resumed in February, 1880, since having been successfully
continued and the facilities enlarged about one-third. Mr.
R. A. Bostley superintends the works in person, and the
people of Towanda are largely indebted to him for the suc
cessful management ofthe most important enterprise located
at the county seat.

350
Humphrey Brothers & Tracy,
Manufacturers of boots and shoes, commenced business on
the corner of Main and Elizabeth 'streets, Aug. i, 1 871, al
though the members of the firm had been for some time
previously engaged in the boot and shoe trade. In 1871,
the company purchased of Captain James Bryant a brick
structure which he had erected the year before for a car
riage factory, and converteid it into a boot and shoe estab
lishment. In 1882, the building becoming somewhat dan
gerous, was taken down, and the present substantial, con
venient structure was erected on the same site. It is of brick,
40x80 feet, five stories, with an elevator running from bot
tom to top. The factory is supplied with all the facilities
and latest improvements for manufacturing boots and shoes.
The machinery is .run by steam power. Especial attention
js given to the manufacture of men's, youths' and boys' boots
and women's, misses' -and children's pegged shoes. Only
first-class work is turned out, which for strength and dura
bility has gained a wide reputation. In addition, the, firm
also do an extensive jobbing trade in the lighter grades of
goods. Seventy-five men are employed, and the business is
conducted with despatch and system. Five agents are con
stantly kept on the road, the annual sales amounting to
^400,000. The firm is a most reliable one, and have been
very successful in their undertaking. The enterprise is sec
ond in importance of Towanda's business interests. The
firm is composed of I. B. Humphrey, C. D. Humphrey and
Chas. L. Tracy. f. 0. Frost's Sons.
Many enterprises have existed in Towanda from time to
time, but most have finally gone down or moved to more
favorable locations.
To no small extent is Towanda indebted to the pluck and
enterprise of J. O. Frost & Sons. Many times struggling
with misfortune, they have ever been faithful to the town
and given her citizens employment.

351
In 1865 J. O. Frost purchased of Chester Wells a small
stock of goods, and at once laid plans for a large furniture
store and factory in Towanda. Accordingly, buildings were
purchased on Main, Pine' and Court streets and a large stock
of goods put in, and in 1866 the manufacture of furniture
commenced in a small way in the basement of the Pine
street building. In 1871 the firm of J. O. Frost & Sons was
organized and a large factory immediately erected on Charles -
street, which was supplied with the best machinery and gave
employmefit to 30 men. Their business gradually incre.ised,
and improvements and men were added to meet the demands
of their trade. In 1876 J. O. Frost retired, since which time
the firm name has been J. O. Frost's Sons. In 1882 the
factory, with all its contents and about 100,000 feet of lum
ber, was destroyed by fire. Their characteristic energy was
again shown. Purchasing the foundry buildings of J. F
Means, in thirty days they had new machinery in and the
new factory in running order. The enterprise gives
.employment in its several departments to sixty-five men,
and has an increasing trade. The firm have carried
a retail furniture business in -connection with manufac
turing, but sold the former to Smith Brothers & Turner in
April, 1886. Their whole attention is now given to the
manufacture of chamber suits, bedsteads, and extension
tables, both finished and in the white.
Dayton's Flouring Mills.
In 1880 George A. Dayton purchased the mill property
originally established by G. F. Mason, overhauled it and put
in new and improved machinery. Again in 1882 he made
additions to the mill, and put in the new process on wheat
and all the improvements in the milling art on buckwheat.
The mill now has a capacity of 300 barrels of wheat and
buckwheat flour per day, besides two car-loads of feed.
The establishment gives employment to twenty men, gener
ally keeping two salesmen on the road. Mr. Dayton does
an exchange business in wheat and buckwheat, custom work

352
in chop, besides a merchant milling business. The mill is
the best equipped in the county, and is second to no other
institution in the State, in the quality of flour manufactured.
Mr. Dayton is an energetic, straight-forward business man,
and keeps his mill in operation day and night to meet the
demands ofhis constantly increasing trade.
Rodgers & Hale.
This firm was originally established as L, B. Rodgers &
Co., on Plank Road street, in 1864. Attention was given
to lumber dressing, and the manufacture of sash, doors and
blinds. The original factory was burned in 1873 and re
built in 1873-74. It gave employment to about forty men.
Mr. Rodgers bought out M. C. Mercur (the company) in
1874 and continued the business alone till May, 1882, when
Benj. T. Hale was taken into co-partnership. Aug. 2, 1884,
their factory was burned, when they bought out N. P. Hicks
and immediately re-commenced manufacturing. About 25
men are employed. Attention is also given to builders' sup
plies, with some attention to the building of secretaries, &c.
Messrs. Rodgers & Hale, like the Messrs. Frost, are entitled
to no little consideration. fames Bryant,
Successor of G. PI. Drake in the manufacture of carriages,
began business on the ground of Humphrey Bros. & Tracy
in 1866. In 1869 he was burned out, suffering a loss of sev
eral thousand dollars. In 1870 he built the extensive shops
which were afterwards purchased b}' Humphrey Brothers
& Tracy, and in 1872 the spacious building which he now
occupies. His factory is located on the corner of Elizabeth
and Railroad streets. It is a fine brick structure of 26x101
feet. The works consist of a blacksmith shop, 26x50 feet,
three forges ; wood shop, 26x50 feet, four benches ; trim
ming shop, 20x26 feet ; varnish and ware-rooms, 26x60 feet.
At present eight men are employed, and sixty vehicles, at an
average cost of ^^ 100 each, are turned out annually.. Mr. Bry-
'ant makes a specialty of open and covered carriages and

353
spring wagons ofthe nea^test and latest designs. The work
turned out from his shops is strictly first-class and unex
celled in the State. A general repair shop is also run in
connection. H. Elsbree & Co.
Was formed in August, 1885, as cigar manufacturers. A
factory was opened on. the Porter farm and employment
given to sixteen hands. Feb. 17, 1886, the factory and con
tents were destroyed by fire. The company re commenced
'ousiness March 24th following, in the second story ofthe
Stulen carriage shops. Employment is given to twenty
hands. Seven different brands are manufactured, the " Lit
tle Mischief" being the most popular. A salesman is kept
on the road, and the firm enjoys an increasing trade. The
enterprise is a commendable one, and will grow.
Towanda Foundry Company.
The business was originally established by John Carman,
who sold to Col. J. F. Means in 1870. In 1871 the firm of
Means, Rockwell & Co. was formed, which continued busi
ness till 1876. In 1882 the foundry and machine shops were
purchased by J. O. Frost's Sons, and the Towanda Foundry
Company formed, consisting of M. A. Rockwell, F. H. War-
riner, and J. O. Frost's Sons. The company have a growing
business and employ sixteen men. Especial attention is
given to the manufacture of shingle mills, .saw mills and lath
mills. Engines of various kinds are also constructed in
their shops, and general repairing of all kinds done. Cir
cular saws, fittings of all descriptions, agricultural imple
ments, etc., are dealt in. Skillful workmen are employed,
and all. work guaranteed. Towanda Directory — -1886.
Postmaster — E. A. Parsons.
Burgess — Edward Frost.
Council — W. G. Gordon, W. K. Marshall, Benj. Kuyken
dall, E. O. Macfarlane, Isaac Middaugh, Isaiah McPherson,
C. M. Myer, Mahlon Carman, Edward Frost

354
Borough Secretary and Treasurer — Joseph Kingsbury.
fustices of the Peace — John A. Codding, Chas. M. Hall. _
School Directors^M. J. Long, President ; Jas. H. Codding,
Sec'y; W. H. Dodge, Treas.; John M. Rahm, Jas. A. Bull,
¥.. L. Hillis, (Geo. A. Dayton, new).
Assessor — H. T. Stevens.
Collector — A. Wickham.
Constable — John Merideth.
High Constable — John H. Orcutt.
Chief of Police — Chas. W. Dimock.
Night Police — Jacob Ellis.
U S. Commissioner — John W. Mix.
Notaries Public— O. L. Haverly, C. S. Russell, W. H.
Dodge, Geo. S. Estell. PROFESSIONAL.
Physicians — D. S. Pratt, T. B. Johnson, J. W. Lyman, D.
N. Newton, C. M. Pratt, S. M. Woodburn, E. D. Payne, C.
K. Ladd, L. M. Mingos, F. G, Newton.
Electricians — Mrs. Coverdale, Miss Beidelman.
Dentists— \Um. B. Kelly, F. Kingsley, P. J. Smith. C. S.
Rogers. Attorneys — John F. Sanderson, E. Overton, Jr., N. C. Els
bree, R. A. Mercur, Jas. H. Codding, S. VV. Little, B. M.
Peck, D'A. Overton, H.N.Williams, D. C. DeWiU, Wm.
Maxwell, Wm. Little, W. T. Davies, J. A. Wik, E. J. Angle,
J. W. Codding, S. S. Kirby, J. P. Keeney, E. L- Hillis, Jno.'
W. Mix, E. A. Thompson, Wm. Foyle, Henry Streeter, L.
M. Hall, John N. Califf, I. McPherson, L. Elsbree, C. M.
Hall, E. Smith, Theo. C. Disbrow, Jas. H. Webb, J. F. Phin
ney, H. B. McKean.
Surveyors — H. E. Bull, G. V. Myer..
HOTELS.
Ward House — *T. R. Jordan; Proprietor.
Elwell House — Ornal Kellogg, "
Seeley' s Hotel-^Chas. H. Seeley,
* Has been engaged in the hotel busiiiess in Towanda sinoe 1860— first in the "Ked Tavern."

Tidd's Hotel — Eugene Baker, Proprietor.
Henry House — M. Cummiskey, "
International Hotel — John Hillis, "
American Hotel — Cogswell Brothers, "
Walbridge House — S. W. Walbridge, "
Travellers' Home—'S. H. Barrett, "
Bradford House — Thos. Grace, "
Aurora House — Theo. C. Disbrow, "
Barclay function Hotel-— "K. Caton, "
Bolan's Hotel— 'Wm. Bolan,
EATING-HOUSES.
Senate Restaurant — James Nestor, Proprietor
Park Restaurant — Johnson & McGaw, Proprietors.
Cahill's Restaurant— -K. B. Cahill, Proprietor.
BUSINESS PLACES.
General Merchants — Powell & Co. — Joseph Powell, T. C.
DeLano, E. T. Noble.
Dry Goods — Evans & Hildreth — D. T. Evans, H. C. Hil-
dreth, 1870. W. H. D. Green, 1883.
Felch & Co.
Dry Goods and Millinery — M, E. Dyer ; 1884.
Millinery and Ladies' Fancy Goods — Mrs. E. Madden, 1874;
Alex. Hyman, 1882; Mrs. Fanny Keeler, 1883 ; Miss E. M.
Stone, 1884.
Ready-Made Clothing — M. E. Rosenfield, 1867 ; Harris
Jacobs, 1868; J. K. Bush, 1875; Decker Bros.— G. M.
Decker, J. A. Decker, E. L. Decker, 1875.
Merchant Tailors— Y. P. Grady, 1878; D. McDonald,
1885 ; J. Hyman, 1885 ; W. J. Davies, cutter for Decker
Bros., 1886; Edward Jones ; J. H.Carey; A. Pennepacker.
Boots, Shoes, &c.—G. M. Clark, 1868 ; M. J. Larkin, 1871 ;
Quigley & Whalen — George Quigley, Edw. Whalen, 1884 ;
J. F. Corser (1875), successor to Corser & Coons (1872) ; J.
R. McKeeby, li

356
Books, Stationery, &C.—C F. Cross, 1867; S. P. Whit
comb, 1872.
Drugs, Medicines, &c — Henry C. Porter (1877), successor
to Dr. H. C. Porter (1848) ; C. T. Kirby (1872), successor
to Porter & Kirby (1868); C. B. Porter, 1872; Turner &
Gordon, 1872 — D. PI. Turner, W. G. Gordon.
Watchmakers, fewelers, &c. — Wm. A. Chamberlin, 1840;
A. N. Nelson, 1872; M. Hendelmaa, 1873; Ed. Mouilles-
seaux, 1879; T. Fessenden.
Gunsmith — J. V. Geiger (1858), successor to John E, Gei
ger (1830).
Hardware, Tinzvare, &c. — A. D. Dye & Co. (A. D. Dye,
A, A. Jarvi.s), 1876; Mahlon Carmon, 1876; M. C. Mercur,
1878; L. B. Coburn, 1886.
Glassware, Crockery-ware, Toys, &c. — C. P. Welles, 1867 ;
Nathan Loewus, 1879. '
Harness-makmg — C. F. Dayton, 187 1 ; J. V. Willcock,
1878-79. Musical Instruments — Holmes & Passage (John Holmes,
C. D. Passage).
Musical Instruments arid Sewing Machines-—'^. C. Wells,
1873- Undertaking-—'^. S. Allyn.
Furniture, &c.—'i. S. Smith, 1882; Chas. C. Miller, 1885 ;
Smith Bros. & Turner (successors to J. O. Frost's Sons) —
Wm. Smith, A. C. Smith, J. C. Turner.
Upholstering — John Spitzer, F. G. Cook.
C S. Fitch (1870), manufacturer of Confectionery, whole
sale dealer in fruits, nuts, confectionery, &c.
A. M. Titus (1880), confectionery, bake stuffs, &c.
Wallace Sisters (1883), fruits, confectionery, &c.— Jessie
Wallace, Christina Wallace.
Spalding & Smith (1886), groceries, bake stuffs, &c. — I. P.
Spalding, E. L. Smith.
N. H. Cowles (1873), confectionery, bake stuffs, &c.
Dennis Clark (1884), confectionery and bake stuffs.
W. V. Brown (1880), restaurant, confectionery, bake stuffs,
&c

357
Vaughan & Baker {1886), groceries and bake stuffs— W.
B. Vaughan, J. C. Baker.
fohn Lines. (1882), bake. stuffs, confectionery, &c.
Grocers — Stevens & Long (1^68), originally Long &
Keeler (1866) — George Stevens, M. J, Long.
E. F. Dittrich & Co. (i878)--E. F. Dittrich,
Wm. -Dittrich, Wm. F, Dittrich.
Perry L. Decker, 1878.
Jas. & W. T. McCabe (1884), originally 'McCabe
& Mix (1867).
George L. Ross, 1876.
Thomas Muir (1883), successor to Thomas Muir
& Co. (1871),
George H. Moore, 1883.
E. G. Kromer, 1886.
Dealers in Butter, Eggs,&c.--C. T. Abell, Fairchild &
Stone. Markets— T. R. Jordan, C. M. Myer, John W. Kline, John,
Lines, Shores & Bailey, Stevens & Vanauken.
Lager Beer Brewery — A. Loder.
Wine Merchants — R. E. C. Myer, John Sullivan, ..John>
Griffin, P. J. Carroll.
Mineral Water Manufactory— Q. S. Smith, i868.
Beer Bottling — John Griffiin, A. Loder.
Livery Stables— E. E. Buffington, D. C. DeWitt, Kirwirt-
Brothers, Seneca Arnold.
Barbering. — Thos. Curran, D. V. Stedge, Ordwein Bros.,
George H. Fairchild, George Linchcome.
Dyeing Establishment — N. Abrahamson.
Agricultural Implements, &c. — R. JVl. Welles,' 1865.
Carriage Making — E. O. Spencer, Agent, Philip Seebich,
John Brown.
Carriage Dealer — James S. Shaylor.
•Laundress — Jim Lee (Chinese), Mrs. L. Warner.
Marble Dealers — Burchill Bros., Lacey & Scheufler, suc
cessors to Jas. McCabe.
Florist— George H. Cox. (WW)

358
Fire and Life Insurance — C. S. Russell, C. M. Hall, Codr
ding & Dodge, J. D. Stryker, O. L. Haveriy, O. D. Bartlett
J. A. Record.D. C. Mitten, O. D. Wickham.
Photographers— C H, Wood, 1853; A. J. Fisher, 1875.
Artist— ]ohann F. Bender.
House and Sign Painting — Wm. Keeler, W. Wallace
Keeler, John Taylor, J. M. Swartwood.
Hair Dressing -'^xs. D. V. Stedge.
Cigar Manufacturer — T. J. Corbett, J. C. Coons.
Tobacconist—] . F. Bender.
Wall Paper— Oscax C. Post.
Wall Paper, Confectionery, &c. — F. E. Post.
Coal Dealers— S. L. & S. R. R. Co., I. O. Blight, Tidd &
Stevens, W. M. Mallory, J. F. Phinney.
Lumber Dealers — Shaw & Co., • who rank among the
heaviest dealers in the State, have their general office at To
wanda, with yards established at various points. The annual
amount of freightage paid by them is much greater than
that of any other concern at the county seat.
Wm. M. Mallory, Edward Walker, J. O. Frost's Sons,
Rodgers & Hale. RAILROAD MATTERS.
General Manager's office of the State Line & Sullivan
Railroad, I. O. Bhght, Manager.
Pa. & N. Y. C. & R. R. Co.— Passenger depot, H. E. Bab
cock, ticket agent ; Freight depot, E. W. Elwell, agent.
Freight and Passenger Depot of the Barclay Railroad, M.
McCue, agent.
Western Union Telegraph Office, F. B. Kintner, Agent
and Operator.
Central Office of.the New York & Pa. Telephone and Tele
graph Co., H. C. Porter, Manager.
Adams Express Co., W. B. Dodge, Agent.
THE TOWANDA LIBRARY
Originated with the young ladies of the Towanda Musical
Society in the winter of 1879-80. Having discussed the

359
merits of the establishment of a public library, Mrs. E. J.
Angle, Mrs. E. Cattell, Miss Chariotte Porter, Miss Isabella
Pratt and Miss Lizzie Overton were constituted a committee
to procure books and proceed to complete the organization.
About a dozen volumes were obtained, and the library open
ed with this small beginning for the first year. The pro
ceeds of entertainments gotten up by the young ladies, to
gether with their library fees, haye enabled them to add over
a hundred volumes to the library each year, the number now
being 1030. The library is carefully selected and contains
the best works of History, Essays and Letters, Travel, Poe
try and the Drama, Science, English, German, and Ameri
can Fiction, Miscellaneous, etc. The very creditable and
energetic move which resulted in the establishment of the
Towanda Library, and is being so successfully continued,
entitles the names of its. founders to a high place on the roll'
of honor. They have sown the seeds of a golden harvest.
Messrs. Evans & Hildreth, to aid the young ladies in their
enterprise, gave them free of rental a room over their store.
The organization is governed by an executive committee
and rules and regulations. The present committee — Miss
M. P. Blight Librarian ; Miss 'Isabella Pratt, Treasurer ;
Miss Lizzie M.Overton, Secretary; Mrs. H. C. Hildreth,
Misses Sue E. Rahhi and Frederika Fox.
THE GER.MANIA BAND
Wasformed in 1880, and is one ofthe finest musical organi
zations, in uniforms and instruments, in the State. E. Walker,
Jr., who has attained no little distinction as a musician, is
leader of the band.
— The first band Towanda ever had was the Towanda
Band, organized in 1836 and led by Wm. Kendall. It con
sisted of an E flat bugle, trombones, four German clarionets,
a trumpet, two ophicleides, bassoon, and a bass and a snare
drum. The organization existed for about four years. As
far as known, Mr. Wm. Keeler is the only survivor of the
" Towanda Band."

360
Towanda proper includes the villages of North Towanda
and South Towanda, and has a combined population of
nearly five thousand. North Towanda, especially, is becom
ing a desirable place for residences, and is otherwise devel
oping. J. Monroe Ayers is doing a good business in general
merchandising there. ADDENDA.
fohn Carman, the foundryman, a native of England, came
to Towanda in 1837 from Montrose, where he had been en
gaged in the foundry business. Immediately after coming
to the town he purchased the old foundry on the river bank
of Col. Mix, which he continued to run till the fall of 1837,
when he erected a foundry in the " Northern Liberties."
Here he continued business till 1850, when he built the ex
tensive foundry and machine shops of now J. O. Frost's
Sons. In 1866 he built a store building on Main street,
where he conducted a hardware business in connection with
his foundry. In 1869 he sold his store to M. E. Solomon,
and in 1870 his foundry and machine shops to Col. J. F.
Means. Mr. Carman was an enterprising citizen and died
about four years since, aged over 70 years. His son, Mah
lon, succeeds him in the hardware business.
William Keeler, born at Hudson, N. Y., July i, 1818, came
to Monroe, Bradford county, in 1820 with his father, Solo
mon Keeler. His father died when William was about six
years old. Since 1822 Mr. Keeler has continually been a
resident of Towanda and has grown up with her industries.
,A regular factotum, with an excellent memory, he has To
wanda's history for the past sixty years at his tongue's end.
Mr. Keeler has followed house and sign painting in Towan
da for nearly half a century. Besides, he has earned more
than a local reputation as a musician. He is a citizen high
ly respected by his fellow-townsmen.
— The only residences on Main street still occupying the
same sites that they did in 1834, are the Col. Mix house
( 1 8 1 2), the Stewart or Barstow house ( 1 8 14- 16), Wm. Watkins
house. Means mansion (1816), the Tompkins or Layton

361
house (1834). Other old residences are — the Gilson house,
which was erected on the Henry- Porter lot and moved to
the foot of Elizabeth street, where it is occupied by Robert
Ganley; the'Kingsbury house, moved from the lot of J. J.
Griffiths to the opposite side of Main street, where itis occu
pied by John Carter. The oldest barn in the town is the
one standing on the Wm. Mix lot, erected by Harry Spald
ing in 1 81 2.
— Business Men. — Alexander Neely and Nicholas Shoe
maker, general merchants and dealers in lumber, were the
leading merchants in the early '30's.
Wm. H. Langford was for several years a jeweler and
watchmaker in Towanda, keeping from 1835 to 1840 a very
rich assortment of gold and silver watches, etc He sold to
W. A. Chamberlin in 1840 and removed to New Jersey.
Since 1840-— Daniel Lord was a hardware merchant where
M. E. Rosenfield now is ; Hentz & Hall, dealers in tinware,
stoves, etc. ; Lamoreux, Hall & Russell, manufacturers of
stoves, etc. D. C. Hall succeeded Hall & Russell in the
hardware business, and he was followed by Codding & Rus
sell. , ¦ ¦
Prominent Citizens. — The Hon. G A. Grow completed his
legal studies with David Wilmot. . Judge Henry Booth, of
Chicago, was also at one time a resident of Towanda.
Newspaper Men. — The next oldest printers after E. A.
Parsons in Towanda are C. H. Allen (1852), O. D. Goode
nough (1855). Ji S. Hamaker was managing editor of the
Bradford Republican for a short time.
GENERAL CORRECTIONS.
Page 102 — "Bradford House" should read Coffee Hotel.
Page 128— Mrs. Olive Elliott died April 7, i886, since the
sketch of her family had gone through the press.
Page 163— " Longitude 25° 28'" should read 25' 28".
Page 172 — In the list of principal merchants "i860"
should read 1840.
Page 173 — " 1832," the date of the construction of the
Towanda bridge, should read 1834.

362
Page 194 — " 1835," the date of the erection of the To
wanda Academy, should read 1834-35.
Page 256 — Mr. E. S. Goodrich married asecondtime and
had a son, Alexander. Cornelia, a daughter by his first wife,
married S. V. Shipman, a noted architect.
Page 298 — Newton E., second youngest son of Col. G. F.
Maspn, was educated at Annapolis Naval Academy, and is
at present in the Ordnance Bureau, Washington, D. C.
Page 310 — E. Reed Myer, Speaker 1877.
Page 321 — Dagger (f) should be omitted before the names
of James M. Edsall and Rowland Wilcox.
Typographical Errors.
Page 2 — " Comprises and " should read " comprise an."
Page 119 — "Col. Harry Mix" should read Col. Hiram
Mix. Page 120 — " Elisha Newberry " should read Elihu New
berry. Page 152 — " Eli Beard " should read Eli Baird.
Page 170 — The date " 1832 " should read 1834.
Page 191 — " Daniel Scott " .'Should read David Scott.
Page 203 — " Township " should read townships.

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