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GENEALOGY COLLECTION.
ALLEN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
U£
3 1833 01126 3412
To tnose ■wno were born ana reared in
this valley. TKose who now live here.
Those v^ho have at one time lived here
ana are now living elsewhere. Those
who lived in this history and have now
passed into the De>)ond.
To these folks, this \)olurae is respect-
fully dedicated.
'Remember the Days of Old, Consider^ the Years
of Many Generations/' — Deut. 32: 7.
Lykens- Williams Valley
History - Directory
and Pictorial Review
Embracing the entire Lykens and Williams Valley, in
the effort to preserve the past and perpetuate the present.
Edited and Compiled by
J. ALLEN BARRETT
Published by J. kllen 'Barrett
Press of
The TelegrapK Printing Company
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
AUTHOR'S PRELUDE NOTE
In a brief resume of the history of the Lykens and
"Williams Valley it is out of place to treat the Aborigines and
even the early history of the state of Pennsylvania, save when
some allusion to either may be deemed necessary. The founder
of Pennsylvania is certainly deserving of grateful remembrance
for his efforts to settle his Province, to protect the pioneers and
to foster their industry and thrift. He was a remarkable man
in many respects, and his "Frame of Government" is a model
unequalled by the laws of any of the colonies or Provinces. The
"Concessions" agreed upon in England for the encouragement
of emigration to his Province was an important factor in that
great movement which so materially assisted in building up
this Western empire, and gave to the world the great state
founded in peace. The inducements by Penn to settle were not
confined to right of soil or voice in government, but religious
tolerance was guaranteed by him. The law of religious liberty
as framed by him, and passed by the first Assembly at Chesi;er
on the 10th of December, 1682, was the first Act of toleration
ever given to any people in the history of nations.
Owing to this toleration on the part of the Proprietary
of Pennsylvania, that Province became a refuge and home to
the people of all creeds and religious beliefs. It is true that
during the life time of the Founder, liberty of conscience was
not questioned but at a later period, we regret to say, his re-
ligious adherents would have throttled tolerance had they not
feared revolution. 1 3^0i 4-4
As a general thing the first settlers were staid farmers.
Their mutual wants produced mutual dependence, hence they
were kind and friendly to each other— they were even hospit-
5
6 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
able to strangers. Their want of money in the early times
made it necessary for them to associate for the purpose of build-
ing houses, cutting their grain, etc. This they did in turn for
each other without any other pay than the pleasures which
usually attended a country frolic. Strictly speaking, what is
attributed to them as virtues might be called good qualities,
arising from necessity and the peculiar state of society in which
these people lived — patience, industry and temperance.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
PREFATORY NOTE
The publication of this volume is made possible by the
support of the business people whose advertisements are con-
tained herein. The Author earnestly requests the READER
when in need of any commodity, to consult the Business Direc-
tory of this book.
To those who are living in the present twentieth century,
and have learned to revel in the resources into the past, the
facts herein gathered should have a charm. The present will
soon belong to the past, and thus, as the years roll on apace, the
very sketches here contained will be more highly treasured. If
the sketches of some who ought to have a place here are wanting,
it is not the fault of the Publisher — it is that of the individual,
l^eoring in mind constantly, however, the limited space of this
volume prohibits the dwelling in detail on any sulbject and ex-
cluding altogether minor and non-important matter, thus af-
fording room for the really important and interesting subjects
which permits the submission to the subscribers, of a perfectly
reliable as well as valuable book.
As introductory to this volume, a resume of the liistory
of the Lykens-Williams Valley is given, with other data nowhere
else to be found. This feature being peculiar to this work.
In presenting the Lykens-Williams Valley History-Directory
and Pictorial Review to its patrons, the Publisher and Author
acknowledges with gratitude, the encouragement and support
the enterprise has received, and the willing assistance in enab-
ling him to surmount the many unforseen obstacles to be met
with in the production of a work of this nature and magnitude.
To procure the material for its compilation, official records
were carefully examined, newspaper files searched, manuscripts,
letters and memoranda were sought, History volumes were con-
sulted and throughout the resume, excerpts were taken from
Gordon's History of Pennsylvania, W. H. Egle's History of
Pennsylvania, Egle's History of Dauphin and Lebanon Counties,
g L^kens-wiLliaMs vAllEy histOrY
The Biographical Encj^clopedia of Dauphin County, Richard
Nolan Diary, Diaries of old residents of the valley, Lykens Stan-
dard, Millersburg Sentinel, Elizabethville Echo, Williamstown
Times, Tower City Herald, and direct information from parties
still living. To name those here would require several pages;
therefore, ever mindful of the valuable assistance, my sincere
thanks and appreciation are extended. Great care was taken
to have sketches as free from error as possible, but I do not
hold myself responsible for mistakes, as no charge was made for
the insertion of any printed matter contained in this book, ex-
cept for advertisements.
Therefore, kind reader, I submit to you this volume, — sin-
cerely trusting you will be appreciable enough to realize the
task involved to publish the same, that you will appreciate its
value now and in time to come ; and in knowing this, I feel that
the effort has not been in vain.
J. Allen Barrett.
Lykens, Pa., March ir>th, 1922.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Subject Page
Business Directory Last Page
Did You Know, or, Do You Remember Department, The 294
District Number 3. U. S. Selective Draft. Statistics 201)
Elizabetliville, Important Dates in History of 193
Early Families of The Valley 31
Early Settlers, How Lived 21
Game and Fish, Past and Present, By V. W. Barrett, Lykens Pa, . . 18,0
Geological Survey, A., of The Lykeus-Williams Valley — By H. E.
Buffington, Esq., Lykens, Pa 13
Gratz F'air Association 55
High Schools In The Valley 208
Hoffman's Reformed Church 208
History of The Lykens-Willlams Valley, Proper 22
History of Towns in The Valley —
History of Berrysburg 97
History of Ellzabethville 131
History of Gratz 52
History of Lykens Township 51
History of Lykens Borough 100
History of Millersburg 63
History of Mifflntownship 95
History of Porter Township 160
History of Tower City 165
History of Wiconisco 89
History of Williamstown 145
History of The Discovery of Lykens Valley Coal 42
Honor Roll of The Valley-
Honor Roll of Berrysburg 284
Honor Roll of Ellzabethville 286
Honor Roll of Gratz 279
Honor Roll of Lykens 285
Honor Roll of Millersburg 280
Honor Roll of Tower City 290
Honor Roll of Wiconisco 283
Honor Roll of Williamstown 287
Indian, Lykens-Willlams Valley 18
"Love Rock" A Legend of a Romantic Spot on Berry's Mt 32
Lykens, Important Dates In The History of 192
Lykens- Wiconisco Athletic Club 224
Lykens Valley Summex--Rambo Apple 212
iO LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Subject Page
Millersburg Gun Club 210
Mine Casualties at Lykens Vallej- Mines 193
Mine Casualties at Williamstown Mines 197
Mine Casualties at Towercity Mines 200
Mine Casualties at East and West Brookside Mines 200
Municipal Authorities of —
Berrysburg , 187
Elizabethville 188
Gratz 185
Lykens 188
Millersburg 185
Tower City 191
Wiconisco Township 186
Washington Township 190
Williams Township 189
Williamstown 190
Public Services in The Valley 207
Roads in The Valley 206
Railroads and Transportations 206
Stone Church, The Old; Elizabethville 228
Sports of The Valley 213
St. John's Lutheran Church (Hill) 226
Twin County Base Ball League. Teams and Entire Statistics
for Season 1921 217
Towercity Swimming Pool 226
Who's Who in The Lykens-Williams Valley—
Elizabethville 260
Gratz 55
Lykens 239
Millersburg 231
Wiconisco 236
Williamstown 269
Towercity 275
"Wild Life in The Lykens-Williams Valley" By— Seth E. Gordon,
Sec. Penna. State Game Commission 203
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW H
INDEX TO PICTORIAL REVIEW.
Subject pfig^s
Avenue, Scenes on Grand Avenue, Towercity 166, 168, 169, 170, 172, 173
Basin, Lykens Valley ' 46
Breaker, Lykens Valley 47
Breaker, Brookside Tower City 48
Breaker, Williamstown 49
Breaker, New at Brookside 50
Building, On Present Brubaker Site, Millersburg 65
Bridge, Across Wiconisco Creek 68
Building, Brubaker, Millersburg 7(5
Bridge, Concrete Across Wiconisco Creek at Millersburg 81
Bridge, Trolley, at Wiconisco 90
Building, Old Polm; Where Present L. V. Bank now stands, Eliza-
bethville 137
Budd, Portrait of the Late Cap't. Richard Budd, Williamstown . . 147
Canal, Old Wiconisco at Millersburg 44
Canal, Old Wiconisco, Loading Boats 44
Canal, Old Wiconiseo', end of 45
Cottage Hill, Millersburg 67
Cemetery, Millersburg 69
Church, M. E. Millersburg 75
Church, Reformed Millersburg 78
Church, Lutheran Millersburg 79
Creek, Wiconisco 89
Church, Zion Lutheran Lykens 103
Church, Grace M. E. Lykens 104
Church, Old Stone Elizabethville 133
Church, Salem Lutheran E'lizabethville 134
Church, Salem Reformed Elizabethville 134
Church, Methodist Williamstown 149
Camp, Beaver One The West Branch Lykens 182
Club, Millersburg Gun 211
Depot, P. R. R., Millersburg 75
Draft, U. S. Selective Number 3 Elizabethville 209
Elizabethville, Market Street 133
House, Old Water. For Wiconisco Canal 24
House, School, Millersburg, 1825-1860 70
Houses, Pioneer of Millersburg ^2
Hall, K. of P., Lykens 102
House, School, Elizabethville 132
Hotel, Snyder, Elizabethville 132
Hotel, Central, Williamstown 147
Hotel, Tower City 1^7
House, School, Tower City 171
Lykens, Andrew, Drawing 1*^0
Lykens, Main and Market Streets 101
Lykens, A scene in 1*^4
Lykens, "When the Late Train Arrives" 105
Lykens, A scene in 10*5
Lykens, Main and Market Streets, 1860 107
12 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTOIiY
Lykens, Birds-E'ye-View 1888 108
Lykens, A Scene In 110
Lykens, Birds-Eye-View Hi!
Mountain, Berry's Below Millersburg 27
Mohautongo, Base of 28
Miller, Mrs. Daniel, Portrait 63
Market Square, Winter Scene, Millersburg 66
Market St., Millersburg 71
Market Sq., Millersburg, lo72 72
Millersburg, Bird's-Eye-View, 1872 72
Millersburg, The Original Town 73
Millersburg, Bird's-Eye-View 80
Map, Industrial of Elizabetliville 135
Map, Elizabethville, 1875 136
Office, Old Shipping for Lykens Valley Coal Co 43
Office, Post, Millersburg 78
Patrick, Mt., From End of Valley 25
Jratrick, Mt., A Study in Reflection 26
Patrick, Mt., From Millersburg 30
Plant, New Electric, at Lykens Colliery 50
Park, Millersburg 64, 77
Pool Swimming, Lykens Ill
Preserve, State Game, Scene on the Same 181
Preserve, State Game, Keepers Camp 204
Race Track, Gratz Fair Grounds 56, 57, 60, 61
Railroad, Old Lykens Valley 68
Reservoir, Lykens 113
Rieservoir, Tower City 173
Shaft, East, Brookside 47
Street Scene in Millersburg 74, 76, 77
Seminary, Old Berrysburg 98
Trestle, Summit rsianch at Mt. Patrick 45
Tavern, Old Red, Elizabethville 137
Tower, Charlemagne, Portrait of 165
Tower City, Bird's-Eye-View 175
Team, Basket-Bail, Wiconisco H. S 215
Team, Foot-Ball, L. & W. A. C 225
Valley, A Scene Leading From Millersburg 23
Wisconisco, A Scene in the Town 91, 92
Wreck, P. R. R. Lykens, 1921 109
Williams, Daniel, from a Description 145
Williamstown, A Scene in the Borough, 146
Williamstown, Bird's-Eye-View from a Drawing in 1888 148
Wreck, P. & R. R., Tower City 174, 176
Yard, Old Northern Central 70
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
13
^J,M
GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
by
H. E. BUFPINGTON, ESQ.
Lykens, Pa.
This geological review will embrace a short structural, strat-
ographic, and economic survey, as well as the prehistoric forma-
tion.
A structural survey of the northern part of Dauphin County,
known as the Lykens, Williams and Pine Valleys, discloses them
to be wholly within and at the western end of a large canoe
shaped basin. The rock strata of the two last valleys dipping
steeply toward each other, at Lykens dipping north, at Gratz
dipping south, forming a huge cradle within which nestles the
lofty Big Lick and Gratztown Mountains. The basin sinks
deeply toward the east and rapidly rises and flattens out toward
the west, until at Loyalton the same formation of bed rocks
which underly Lykens and Gratz, unite at the surface and spread
out as the broad, flat Lykens Valley, and extending beyond the
river at Millersburg where it was thrown up into the air by the
underlying Pocono rocks coming to the surface as the juncture
14 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
of two mountains, 'i'lie rocks of tlie Berry's Mountain dip tu
the north and those of the Mahantango to the south. I'he hard
plates of Pocono sandstone which form the back hone of tliese
mountains, having better withstood the elements while the soft
shales of the valley were being eroded and washed away, have
created a well defined mountain as the boundary line, encir-
cling the western end of the great syncline.
The big trough enfolds what is known as the Lower Anthra-
cite basin, extending sixty miles long and six miles wide at its
greatest width, from the mountain top at Loyalton, Dauphin
County to Mauch Chunck, Carbon County.
East of Tower City, it is broken into or joined by a narrow
over-throw syncline deep enough to carry the coal formations,
and extending south-westward like a spur as the Stony and
Sharp mountain.
The coal strata of the Big Lick Mountain dips north, whiU'
that of the Gratztown Mountain, dips south, bringing Bear Val-
ley as the center line of the trough. The base line of the lower
coal veins spooning out at the surface on the mountain top at
Loyalton, rapidly sinks toward the east until at Lykens it
reaches a depth of 2702 feet. The pitch of the veins down the
sides of the trough becomes very steep, at places approaching the
perpendicular. The north dip or Lykens side is continuous and
unbroken rounding the bottom and ascending the other side
for a short distance; at this point the south dip or Gratz side has
a down throw fault breaking its continuity ; the rock formation
having at this point split oft' and slipped down. This fault has
not been defined in the lower formations of the Lykens Valley.
The Stratography
When viewed according to their origin there are four kinds
of rocks: Ignious, or those formed by fire as granite, eLc, Sedi-
mentary, fragments broken down from other rocks, washed
away and deposited in water as the shales, sandstones, and con-
glomerate; Animal origin, as the shells of oysters, etc., accumu-
lated under water, forming limestone, etc. ; Vegetable source,
producing carbon deposits, as coal, etc.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW JS
Kocks of ignious or animal source do not appear in the
Lykens Valley; however with these exceptions the Cove Dyke
crosses the river above Halifax and is lost in the Berry's Moun-
tain south of Rife. The molten trap-rock coming up through
this crack in the earth's crust most probably will be found to
continue across the Ljd^ens Valley, but at some distance beneath
the surface. Also there is a well-defined layer of calcarious
shale on the George Hai*ner farm east of Elizabethville. This
is the nearest approach to limestone found in the valley.
The rocks are all of a sedimentary formation with the up-
permost layers interlaid with the vegetable rocks, the coals, and
the slates.
Belonging to Devonian and Carboniferous series the rocks
are here displayed in their truest types.
The Pocono white sandstone forming the backbone of the
Berry's and Mahantango iMountains here attain a thickness of
two thousand feet. The sandstones are white and gray, with
very little shale but occasional layers of hard conglomerate.
The Criswald Gap conglomerate here attains a thickness of
twenty feet. There also appears in the gorge south of Lykens
at Peewee Rock a fossiliferous shale containing an abundance
of vegetable fossils, among which the writer has classified
the Lepidodendron, Chemungeuse, and Primaevum, Archaeop-
teris, Bochchiana, etc. Underlying the uppermost layer of con-
glomerate in the Pocono formation is a stratum of laminate rock,
It is very persistent .thus forming a reliable key rock.
The ]\Iauch Chunk red shale overlies the Pocono forming
the whole surface bed of the three valleys, and here attains a
thickness of over two thousand feet, consisting chiefiy of red
shales with occasional thin layer of red sand stone.
The Pottsville formation is the typical conglomerate over-
lying the Mauch Chunk shales, and having a thickness of over
six hundred feet. Hoisting its massive conglomerate rocks a
thousand feet above the valleys it forms the rugged mountains
north of Lykens, interlaced with six beds of coal it here yields
three thick workeable veins of the famous Red Ash coal. The
carboniferous proper w-bere it appears in the Bear Valley,
IQ LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
north of Lykens, overlies the conglomerate with but a small
part of its formation. Only the lower productive measures
has its bottom beds sunk deep enough in the trough between the
Big Lick and Gratztown Mountains to be retained. However
towards the east more layers are preserved until finally all the
beds of the series are included.
Economic
The shales of the valleys disintregrate into a fertile farming
soil; the Pocono sandstones are used for building purposes and
road making. The coal is extensively mined by the most mod-
ern and up-to-date equipped collieries in the world and forms
the chief occupation of the region.
The trough formation precludes oil from ever being pro-
duced in commercial quantities in the Lykens Valley. The ap-
parent small anti-cline fold passing through Berrysburg is a
structural trap sufficient to collect oil if a porous oil bearing
rock is present, but its restricted area of drainage would make
the pool so small as to ,bie worthless.
There are no precious metals nor minerals found except the
scant aluminum and the iron contained in the red shales.
Historic Formation.
When the primitive great upheaval hoisted the first land
above the water, creating the formative base of the North
American Continent, it appeared as a large mass of granite in
Canada, shaped like the letter V, with its apex resting on the
northern shores of the Great Lakes, its one broad arm extending
toward Alaska, the other paralleling the St. Lawrence River,
with the Hudson Bay occupying the center. All the rest of
North America still remained under water. Within the sea
along the eastern front, paralleling the Atlantic Shore line for
a one thousand miles was a long deep, broad trough. A de-
pression under the sea counter-balancing the great uplift.
During millions of years the elements were attacking the
massive land granite, disintegrating, eroding and washing the
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 17
sediment into the sea, where it was deposited as level layers of
mud, sand or gravel, determined by its nearness to the shore
line at the time of being laid down.
The bottom of the great trough was filled up thicker than
elsewhere, until at the close of the carboniferous era we find
thai the successive seas of the Cambrian, Silurian, Devonian
and carboniferous periods had accumulated a deposit of over
thirty- -five thousand feet, more than seven miles thick.
This added weight to an already weakened crust at the
trough line, caused a gradual sinking of the under part of the
shell into the molten center mass. It melted off the bottom
shell of the trough until it became too weak to withstand the
lateral pressure of the tremendous shrinkage strain from the
cooling of the earth.
The great squeeze, at the close of the carboniferous era,
came as a thrust from the southeast lifting the crust out of the sea
and folding it up for a distance of one thousand miles along
Avhat is now the Atlantic Coast Line. Known as the Appa-
lachian uplift it formed the mountain system from jNIaine to
North Carolina.
Across the continental trough at Lykens, it is estimated
the distance of the then level strata was shortened twenty miles
by the shrinkage thrust, resulting in a folding up and a stand-
ing on end of the strata, forming the synclines and anticlines,
the troughs and the hogbacks of our present geological struc-
ture.
The end of tliis upheaval marked the second great day for
the permanent uplifting of land out of the seas. From Kansas
west the whole of the United States, except a few islands, was
still under water.
At some places as at BeUefonte, the crust broke off and
was shoved up seven miles into the air; at others, as at Rock-
Wile it folded over on itself and looped back; at Lykens, the
South side of the coal trough arose to an anticline whose crest
line extends from the Glen at Lykens to Fisherville, then sweep-
ing south in a slightly depressed plateau it meets the Round
Top-Inglenook anticline and dips south with the Peters moun-
18 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
tain as the north side of Stony Mountain overthrow coal syn-
cline. At the close of the upheaval a big layer of broken, split
and crumbled up mass of Mauch Chunk shale, Pottsville
conglomerate, and Carboniferous formation overlaid the three
valleys thousands of feet thick, with the still solid part tilted
on its edge at an angle of sixty-five degrees.
Then for many more millions of years the rains and the
elements kept eroding away at this covering mass and swept it
into the then New Jersey sea, until today there remains only
a small fraction of the carbonifers, and the Pottsville comglom-
erate with its coal veins. For every ton remaining thousands
have been swept away and lost on the bosom of the coastal lands.
THE LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY INDIAN
In complexion, our uncivilized predecessors were of tawny
color, inclining to red, which, differing from the complexion of
every other portion of the human family, seems peculiar to most,
if not all, the aborigines. Their cheek-bones were high and pro-
minent; their eyes widely separated; their noses usuallj^ broad,
even when curved in outline ; and the ordinary cast of their fea-
tures was coarse and often inexpressive. The men were generally
tall, straight, well proportioned, and hardly ever corpulent or
in any manner deformed. The women were too apt to be short
and clumsy ; their features were seldom delicate or handsome ;
and Avhat feminine graces they had were soon obliterated by hard
bodilj^ labor combined with mental and moral degradation. The
beautiful Indian maiden was only a mj^th or the dream of the
poet. The mode of life of the men, and perchance their natural
constitution, gave them a power of enduring fatique and priva-
tion such as no European could rival. When necessary they
would hunt for days together while suffering from hunger, or per-
form long journeys through the forests with no other refresh-
ment than a little parched corn and water.
For subsistence, the Indian depended much less upon
agriculture than upon either fishing or hunting. They confined
themselves chiefly to the raising of beans, corn, and tobacco.
The corn and beans were cultivated bv women and children,
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 19
the tobacco alone was thought worthy of the labor and attention
of the men. The women of an ordinary family would commonly
raise in a single season two or three heaps of corn, each con-
taining twelve, fifteen, or twenty bushels. The corn was spread
day after day in the sun, carefully shielded from the rain or
dew, and when in this way sutficiently prepared was buried in
the earth and thus preserved for the winter's subsistence.
Hunting and fishing were perchance the chief dependence
for food. The forest was filled with animals, some of them
beasts of prey, others suitable for food, others valuable on
account of their furs. Flocks of wild turkeys roam^ed through
the woods, partridges and pheasants abounded, both in the woods
and open country, and at certain times of the year the pigeons
collected in such numbers that their flight seemed to obscure
the light of the sun. The ponds, creeks, and rivers swarmed
with water-fowl. The river Susquehanna was alive with fish,
and every spring great numbers of shad, rock-fish, salmon,
and perch ascended the streams furnishing a seasonable supply
to the natives when their provisions were exhausted by a long
and severe winter.
The clotliing of the natives was composed of skins cured so
as to be soft and pliable, and sometimes ornamental with paint
and beads manufactured from shells. It may be stated in this
connection that very little is known of the process used by the
Indians to prepare bear- and deer-skins for shoes and clothing.
Loskiel says, ''Their shoes are of deer-skin, without heels,
some being very neatly made by the women. Their skins are
tanned with the brains of deer, which make them soft; some
leave the fur upon the skin, and such fur shoes are remarkably
light and easy." The buffalo robes sold by our furriers as
tanned by the Indians are softer than those that are tanned
by civilized people. Occasionally the women decked themselves
in mantles made of feathers overlapping eacli other, as on the
back of the fowl, and presenting an appearance of fantastic
gayety which no doubt prodigiously delighted the wearers.
Their dress consisted usually of two articles, a leather skirt, or
undergarment, ornamented with fringe, and a skirt of the same
20 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
material fastened around the waist witli a belt and reaching
nearly to the feet. Their hair they dressed in a thick, heavy
plait, which fell down upon the neck; and they sometimes orna-
mented their heads with bands of wampum or with a small cap.
The men went bareheaded, with their hair fantastically trim-
med each according to his own fancy. One warrior would have
it shaved on one side of the head and long on the other. Another
might be seen with his scalp completely bare, except a strip two
or three inches in width running from the forehead over to the
nape of the neck. This was kept short, and so thoroughly
stiffened with paint and bear's-grease as to stand up straight,
after the fashion of a cock's comb or the crest of a warrior's
helmet. The legs were covered with leggins of dressed deer
skin, and the lower part of the body was protected by the
breech-cloth, usually called by the early settlers Indian-breeches.
Moccasins, that is, light shoes of soft-dressed leather, were
common to both sexes, and, like other portions of the attire, were
many times tastefully ornamented with embroidery of wampum.
The men often dispensed with their leggins, especially in sum-
mer ; while in winter they protected themselves against the
bleak air by adding to their garments a mantle of skins. The
male children ran about until they were ten or twelve years old
in a state of nature; the girls were provided with an apron,
although of very economical dimensions.
As to their houses and furniture, their food and its prepar-
ation, amusements, courtships and marriage, we shall not refer.
There are certain peculiarities characteristic of the Indian which
are interesting to dwell upon, but these must be left to another
occasion. A few remarks, however, upon their moral life may
explain their future conduct towards the white settlers. The
Indian of to-day, however, is a fair type of those savages who
lived in our locality two centuries ago. We dislike to picture
vice in all its horrid details, and to much that is inherent in
the savage nature of the aborigine we shall refrain from refer-
ring.
Although marriage was not always recognized among their
rites, unfaithfulness was looked upon as a crime, and even death
was frequently inflicted for this offense by the irate husband.
DIKBCTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 21
licentiousness was common, and the man who looked upon tlie
waywardness of his wife, visiting her with blows and wounds,
may have been the most debauclied creature in the tribe. No
female ever ventured alone, for bestiality was the besetting sin of
the race. Uncleanness was in all their manners. Impatient of
bodily labor, and indisposed to thought, they naturally turned
for pleasure to those coarse gratihcations of the senses which
were within reach. They were indolent when not strongly in-
cited to exertion; they were gluttonous when supplied with
an abundance of food, and they became intemperate as soon as
the means of intemperance were placed within their reach.
They were revengeful by nature; custom had made vengeance
with them a matter of duty and honor. They had little idea of
truth; they were natural-born liars, and as a result were the
meanest of robbere. As for murder and arson they had no com-
punctions of conscience; there were no retined feelings in their
nature. Selfish in the extreme, they never realized what was
ennobling.
HOW THE EARLY SETTLERS LIVED.
Little we know, in this day of comfort and luxury, how
our ancestors fared. Although the elder settlers had some sheep,
yet their increase was slow, owing to the depredations of wolves
and other animals. It was therefore, a work of time to secure
a crop of wool. Deerskin was a substitute for men and boys,
and all generally wore leather breeches; and occa.sionally women
and girls were compelled to resort to the use of the same mate-
rial.
The women did the spinning and generally wove all the
cloth for the family, the men being engaged in clearing and
cultivating the soil, or with their trusty rifle went in search of
deer or other game for food. Our early settlers, Scotch-Irish
as well as German, had large families, and it required the con-
tinued labor of the wife and mother to provide them with any-
thing like comfortable clothing. The men were not insensible
to this devotedness on the part of their wives, but assisted in
whatever was necessary, even in the cookery and the cases were
22 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
few where they could not do all the work of the house. The
patient endurance, however, of the women we commend to the
ladies of the present. That endurance did not arise from a
slavish servility or insensibility to their rights and comforts,
but justly appreciating their situation, they nobly encountered
the difficulties which could not be avoided.
Possessing all the atl'ections of the wife, the tenderness of
the mother, and the sympathies of the women, their tears flowed
freely for other's griefs, wliilst they bore their own with a for-
titude which none but a woman could exercise.
The entire education of her children devolved on the moth-
er, and notwithstanding the difficulties to be encountered, she
did not allow them to grow up with out instructions, but amidst
all her numerous cares taught them to read and instructed
them in the principles of Christianity. Noble matrons ! Your
achievements have come down to us through a hundred years
for our admiration and example.
HISTORY OF THE LYKENS-AVILLIAMS VALLEY.
The Wiconisco or Lykens valley includes that section of
the upper end of Dauphin County that is watered by the Wic-
onisco Creek and it's branches, save where local names have
been given to certain portions.
The early history of the Lykens-Williams valley is one of
interest, inasmuch as the individual for whom the entire valley
now takes it's name was among the very first settlers. In the
fall of the year 1755 a certain Mr. Andrew Lycans settled on a
tract of about two hundred acres, situated on the northerly side
of the Whiconescong Creek, near the present site of Loyalton,
a few yards north of the bridge that crosses the "Wiconisco
Creek. Until the Spring of the year 1756 these pioneers were
not disturbed in their homes, however following Braddoek's
defeat in that year, everywhere along the frontier the savages
began their work of devastation and death. Their implacable
cruelty was stimulated by the Frencii promising a reward for
scalps and being put into possession of their lands. On
the morning of the 7th of March 1756, Andrew Lycans and
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
23
John Rewalt went out early to fodder their cattle, when two
guns were fired on them. Neither being harmed they ran into
the house and prepared themselves for defense in case of an
attack. The Indians then got under cover of a hog-house near
24
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
the dwelling house, when John Lyeans a son of Andrew, John
Rewalt and Ludwig Shott, crept out of the house in order to
a
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3
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3
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get a shot at them, but were fired upon by the savages and all
wounded, the latter (Shott) in the abdomen. At this time
Andrew Lyeans saw one of the Indians over the hog-house, and
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
25
also two white men getting out ol; the same and running at a
little distance from it. Upon this Lycans and his party attempt-
ed to escape, but were pursued by about sixteen Indians. John
Scene of Mt. Patrick, looking from end of Valley
Lycans and Rewalt being badly injured and not being able to
do anything, with a negro who was with them, made off, leaving
26
LYKBNS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Andrew Lycans, Sliott and a boy to engage with the Indians.
The savages pursued them so closely, that one of them coming
up to the boy was going to strike his tomahawk into him, when
o
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re
Q.
<
Andrew Lycans turned and shot him dead, while Shott killed
two more and wounded several others in addition. At last
being exhausted and wounded, they sat down on a log to rest
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
27
themselves ; but the Indians were somewhat cautious, and stood
some distance from them, and consequently returned to look
after their own wounded. Ly cans' and all his party managed
3
J2
O
GO
to get over into Hanover Township where they were properly
cared for. Here Andrew Lycans died, leaving a wife and six
children. It is not known when Lycans' family with the other
2S
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
settlers returned to their homes in the Wiconisco valley, but
not until all danger was over, and although on a number of
occasions they were obliged to leave all and flee before the ma-
rauding savages, yet the one alluded to, was the only occasion
3
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«
where they so narrowly escaped with their lives. Mrs. Jane
Lycans in February 1765, had a patent issued to her for the
land on which her husband had located. The Lycans Cabin
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 29
stood until about the year 1863, on the McClnre farm, now own-
ed by Josiah Hoover. Ludwig Shott died about 1790, and left
a large family : some of his descendents remain in the valley.
Andrew Lycans has given his name to the beautiful valley
of the Wiconisco, owing perchance to the terrible encounter
with the Indians as narrated. The orthography has been chang-
ed within the last sixty some years, but the reason therefor has
not been learned. Whether Lykens or Lycans, it is trusted that
no attempt be ever made to deprive the first pioneer of the
name which has been appropriately given to it.
In the year 1771, Henry Schoffstall built a house for Joel
Ferree of Lancaster County. This house was located at Oak-
Dale Forge, At this time there were few settlers in the valley.
Among them however where — Schott, Benjamin Buffington, John
N. Hoffman and Philip Umholtz. Farther up (East) the
Williams valley lived Conrad Updegraff, Daniel Williams,
Martin Blum and a Daniel Hain.
The Oak Dale Forge was built about the year 1828 by
James Buchanan. Mr. Buchanan came from Harrisburg. He
subsequently removed to Baltimore, where he died. He kept
a store at the forge and also the Post Office, which latter
was established about 1830, the mail being carried by pack-
horse. Previous to that time the Post Office was at Millers-
burg, each neighbor taking his turn to bring the mail from
there weekly.
From 1795 to 1800 there were only three houses built be-
tween the Forge and Lykens. The old Bohner farm, Seebolt
and one on the old Solomon Schoffstall property.
The first election held in the Valley or in Lykens Town-
ship, was probably in Gratz, about the year 1815. Hoffman's
Church was the first place for religious worship.
The importance of the Lykens-Williams Valley may be dated
from the year 1825, when coal was discovered. From that
year to the present time the valley took very rapid and pro-
gressive strides. The south portion of the Valley is named
after a Mr. Williams who built and conducted a grist-mill,
near Williamstown, which is also named after him. This Valley,
30
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
hardly a mile in width, extends east from its junction with
Lykens Valley ten miles, with the Short Mountain on the North
and Berry ■» Mountain on the south, to a point where it coalesces
with Clark's Valley, the two headed off by Broad mountain be-
yond Tower City.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 31
Coal mining is the Chief Industry of the valley, and de-
pending almost wholly upon the mines are, Tower-city, Sheri-
dan, Williamstown, Dayton, Wiconisco, and Lykens. Loyalton,
while partly dependent, is a farming center. Elizabethville
depends upon local commercial Industries and farming while
Millersburg is the terminus of the coal industry maintains
large machine Industries, Rail Road, etc., It must also be borne
in mind however, that aside from the coal mining Industry,
there are also a number of real progressive manufacturing con-
cerns in each town of the valley, which support a like number
of citizens. It is estimated that about eighty percent of tlie
residents of the entire valley are property owners. In the year
1800 this valley was practically a dense forest with a few
scattered settlers, to-day 1922 as per the 1920 census the popula-
tion of the valley is estimated at 17,000.
Early Families of the Valley
Among the early families of the valley we find the following
names as very early and prominent: —
Benjamin Buffington Dr. Robert Auchmuty
Andrew Reigle Hartman Rickert
Mathias Freck John F. Bowman
John B. Hoffman Jacob Hoover
Benjaman Bretz Abraham Jury
Philip Runk Rev. Charles E. Muench
Adam Cooper Simon Shallada
Daniel Etzweilor John Peter Williard
32 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
LOVE ROCK.
The Indian Traditional story of Love Rock herewith pub-
lished is gathered and gleaned from very authentic sources.
It appears that this story was published some many years ago
in the old Lykens Register. Efforts to obtain the real authorship
were utterly fruitless, to obtain a copy of the same seemed
equally difficult.
Fortunately, Mr. Edward L. Rowe, of Lykens, who as-
sisted in this search was successful in finding an age worn copy
of the very story. The task then to recopy it seemed impossible,
due to the condition of the paper and faded composition. How-
ever, he finally deciphered and revived the old legend, and con-
tributed it to this publication. The Author very grateful, feels
certain that the reader will appreciate his interesting contribu-
tion.
The story is herewith printed with due respects and sin-
cere courtesy to the unknown Author, and to Mr. Rowe my
highest type of appreciation.
(The Author).
Love Rock
A Legend of a Romantic spot on Berry's Mountain.
There is a little town nestled in a narrow teeming valley,
between two bold mountains up sixteen miles above the Broad
Susquehanna river, not outside the county which boasts the
capital of our State, whose people are kind, courteous and
hospitable. The stranger visiting there may find some venerable
and trembling loquacious inliabStants to recount to him a
legend connected with an attractive spot high up above the
village, among thick brush and mossy boulders. Something in
this fashion the patriarch will tell you: Long years ago, be-
fore the opening of the revolution, in which my great grand-
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 33
father fought valiantl}' and died with his sixty-eight comrades
in the mistaken battle of Monmouth — heaven rest his soul! — a
party of sturdy young Englishmen left their homes in the old
world to find, as they hoped, adventure and wealth in the
new. They landed at New York. They stayed there but a
fortnight, and then impatient to explore and revel in the ex-
ploits of the marvelous and boundless uninhal)ited country
offered to venturesome spirits, agreed to separate, to meet again
one year hence.
Among the party were two brothers, Harold and AVilliam
Wingans, whose affection for each other was beautiful and un-
limited. They were twins but very unlike in form and differing
much in nature.
William was tall, nobly formed, with light, clustering curls,
and bright hazel eyes that made his handsome face look hand-
somer. He was frank and gentle, yet bold, with much impetu-
osity. Harold was scarce of medium height, with dark hair and
eyes, which were never quiet, a well developed form, that would
easily grow into stoutness in the midst of ease and luxury.
He had a daring disposition and strong passions, but with a
will equally as strong. Thus they differed much, only they
loved each other as brothers seldom love.
They never dreamed of being apart ; So when it came to
choosing companions for their travels they choose each other.
For six months they roamed almost everywhere, now living
for weeks alone, then associated with other adventurers. They
forgot their desire for wealth in the intoxication of hunting and
trapping and in saving their locks from the knife of the treach-
erous redskins.
At length they stumbled into Penn's domains, and were
ravished with the placid Susquehanna and its glorious natural
attractions. They were bold fellows, were these boys, not yet
twenty-five, and when one fine Summer day they came suddenly
upon a party of Indians encamped along the broad river at a
point w^here a narrow creek emptied its then ])ure watere, cold
34 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
and sparkling, from the big hills, into the placid stream, they
placed themselves on an agreeable footing with the savages by
their friendliness and prompt show of confidence. They learned
in a short time that this company was a part of a rather large
encampment sixteen miles up among the hills, and although
there was at that period much discussion and acrimony between
the whites and the aborigines, the brothers were treated very
civilly and even invited, in the indifferent fashion of the Indian,
to accompany them to the place where they would "heap deer-
and bear kill." The invitation was accepted, and the next
morning before the sun had gilded the mountain tops and glim-
mered on the clear, shallow water of the Susquehanna, they be-
gan their march up the little valley. Sixteen miles was not
much of a distance to the red men and equally insignificant to
the two Englishmen, and before noon they came upon the en-
campment, at the foot of one of those hills that in the locality
in question range up into the Schuylkill region, leaving deep
and close valleys between them. The brothers were struck
with the appearance of the camping ground which resembled
rather a permanent Indian town, in fact it was almost such, as
the savages had been here for a month, and, so far as present
indications tended, they might remain so much longer. There
was bustle and confusion, noise, never musical and mostly dis-
cordant, created by a general commotion among the dirty,
nude youngsters and gaunt, devilish looking dogs, unintelligible
sounds came from the tongues of termagrant squaws, merry
tones of a few handsome and many unhandsome maidens, and
the guttural utterances and grunts of the bold warriors as they
stood or strode about, watching Avitli ceaseless scrutiny onerous
duties being performed by their drudging wives, added most
emphatic and yet not unpleasant variety to the boisterous com-
motion. Many of the tents were gaily decorated, and one erected
in the center of the encampment, was especially resplendent with
gaudy and variegated colors, and gaily streaming pieces of
cloth, while the tent itself was rendered conspicously attractive
with bright designs painted upon it by the not unsldlled brush
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 35
of some dusky artist. The brothers stopped at the edge of the
town and contemplated the animated scene. They had seen much
of Indian life in their brief sojourn in the wilds of America, but
they had not yet been spectators of a picture so singular and
engaging as this. Harold asked a young son of the forest what
it all meant: the ten-year old brave for answer bit him in the
leg. He reached down to shake the young rascal, but William
restrained him with a warning admonition not to arouse the
anger of their dangerous hosts. They were, however, soon en-
lightened bj^ one of the party whom they had first met, who told
them that that afternoon the chief's adopted daughter was to
wed his son, a strong and valiant young brave, whose face and
form were as handsome as an attendant of the Great Spirit, and
whose war like deeds were as numerous as the trembling leaves
on the swaying pines, such was the florid and expressive de-
scription of the Indian. J^330i44
The Englishmen were conducted to a tent and a gene-70us,
if not delicate, collation of well cooked venison and delicious
trout were set before them, to wliieli they did palpable justice.
"I should like to see this happy maiden." said William, as the
two finished their meal. ''I have noticed some rather hand-
some young women here, and a chief's daughter may be pre-
sumed to be superior to them all in her charms of form and
dress. Suppose we try to catch a glimpse of her." Harold
agreed with the precautionary advice that they should take heed
not to be too curious. There seemed little curiosity on the part
of the Indians as they strolled among them, and the English-
men could not discover whether or not all whom they met had
seen them before or had been told of their presence in the camp.
The din among the natives, instead of diminishing, steadily
increased. Eveiy one was good natured, and Harold became
so nnich affected with the levity of the occasion that he said he
would not harm the youngster who had bit him further than
to'soundly spank him. It was a difficult matter for the brothers
to get a glimpse of the interior of the pretty tent in wliicli the
princess was hidden, for it was warily guarded by several
36 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
braves. They were lamenting in rather loud voice their disap-
pointment, when they heard within the tent a woman's voice
singing in excellent English, without a trace of foreign accent.
The impetuous Harold would have dashed into the tent had
not his more considerate brother restrained him. They listened
to the words and were more astonished. They were not those
of a song, but in a low, musical voice the men were being told
that the maiden within was a white girl, captured by the red-
skins, adopted by the chief, and now forced to marry his son.
The sentinals could not understand English, and she sang the
words to throw them off their guard.
What intentions the brothers had for relief of the girl
were frustrated by the sudden appearance of the chief of the
tribe accompanied by his son. The old brave was yet a fine
speciman of manhood, which the strangers noticed as he walked
up to each and extended his hand in friendly greeting. His
son did the same, and for the present the brothers felt secure.
When the two Indians had bade their guests welcome they
walked towards the entrance of the tent, and as the son, follow-
ing the old chief, was about to enter, Harold sprang forward
with an assuring smile and attempted to follow him. But the
warrior with a grunt, gently waved him back and disappeared
within, "By jove!" exclaimed Harold in disappointment, "They
don't want us in there, that's certain." But, he continued
and his voice grew firmer, "we must rescue this girl, and before
many hours. The ceremony takes place at evening, in truth, at the
time it will be dark, what do you propose?" "The question is
hard to answer, ' ' replied his brother : ' ' but let us remove from
here we may attract too much attention." The camp we have
said was at the foot of a mountain, and but a short distance
away there was a large drove of horses grazing on the banks
of a beautiful stream (Rattling Creek). The brothers, appar-
ently actuated by nothing but idle curiosity, reconnoitered the
surroundings. No one but Harold observed his brother leave the
camp and follow a very narrow and rocky path running almost
perpendicularly towards the top of the mountain.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 37
A well defined road tempted Harold to follow it, and he
was also soon lost to view. An hour passed before they met
again at the edge of the camp, "Now your plan?" asked Har-
old. "It is this," replied his brother; "as you see these In-
dians have fire-water, and will begin soon to get generally hil-
arious. This will aid us much in escaping observation. But
we had better not remain away so long." They returned
within the camp, and ascertaining that no one was in the tent
with the captive maiden, and no one around likely to under-
stand what they said, the In-others drew as near to the tent as
consistent with safety, and in a moderately loud tone William
acquainted Harold witli his scheme to rescue the girl. She
heard everything that was said. William Wingens' prediction
that the indulgence of the savages in the store rum would favor
the desperate act of the brothers was already becoming verified,
but not with the swiftness they desired. It was now but two
hours until nightfall, when the rude and singular marriage cere-
mony of the Indians would take place. But the Englishmen
determined that this particular wedding should not occur if
they could prevent it. To accelerate matters, therefore ,the
two joined with groups of the savages and began drinking w'ith
them with prodigious alacrity, remembering, ho^vever, to im-
bibe about once to their companions dozen drams.
It was a strange and uncanny picture indeed on which the
sun east his last rays, and upon which the shades of the night,
rendered denser in the valle\% fell. With the disappearance of
the sun the uproar of jubilations and drunken revelry began to
assume unw^onted loudness. There was an ear-splitting mixture
of howls from the men, women and children, dismally melan-
choly howls from tlie half-starved curs and excruciating howls
from the primitive nuisical instruments, all in celebration of
the nuptials of the son of the chief. Then out from the gaudy
tent slowly moved the maiden, her fair form clad in pretty In-
dian costume. She advanced with a firm step and clieery smile
to the young brave, and together they walked towards a mon-
strous, roaring, crackling fire, which made the darkness darker
where it's rays could not reach, and threw crooked and weird
shadows up the gloomy mountain side. William Wingans had
38 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
noticed all this, but as the girl and the warrior were being sur-
rounder by the old chief and his attendants, he looked in vain
for his brother. He was about to start in search of him when
Harold emerged from the path he followed in the afternoon.
Easily getting together amid the confusion and noise, Harold
said: "There is the chief's horse under that big oak tree. Be
there and mounted ten minutes from now, and be ready to take
the girl from my arms. See to your weapons." With these
words the bold youth walked away. The revelry increased
among the Indians, and without being observed "William reached
the tree and mounted the noble animal Harold had placed there.
He was well screened from view by the thick underbrush and
trees, but he could observe all the movements in the camp.
Again he lost sight of Harold, only for a moment, however,
for looking around he discovered him standing not more than
ten paces from the maiden and her companions. Suddenly the
girl knelt before the venerable chief and looking up to him said,
in the Indian tongue. "My Father, the Great Spirit looks
down from the black sky with his fiery eyes, the grass nestles
strangely beneath my feet and the wind sighs through yonder
trees like the doe when the arrows of your braves pierce her
heart ; methinks all is not well. Let me go apart for a moment,
that I may kneel to the Great Spirit. ' ' The request was singular,
but the warrior nodded assent, and the girl walked with bent
head and slow steps toward where Harold Wingans stood con-
cealed, with one hand holding a steed he had taken from the
drove. The maiden did not know just where he was concealed,
and she might have passed him, but a low hiss like an adder's
made her pause. She knew there were many eyes upon her, but
she turned towards the concealed man and sank on her knees
and commenced to pray. In a moment Harold was on his horse,
and the girl, rising to her feet, was lifted into the saddle be-
fore him. A dash beneath the branches, across the path to Wil-
liam, was but the work of a minute. But Harold had been seen
as his steed leaped the path, and a howl, a thousand times more
hideous than those heard before, echoed through the valley.
"Quick, take her," whispered Harold to his brother hurriedly,
as he placed the girl on the saddle before the latter, ' ' Follow the
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 39
path up the monntain, keep in it until you are on the other side.
I will take the road below and decoy them. See!" The last
word called William's attention to a blanlvet which was folded
something in the shape of a human form, which Harold now
held as he had held the girl. He recrossed the path and the
savages saw and followed him. The animal upon which Wil-
liam rode was a splendid one, and he dashed up and over the
rocks with his double burden as if he were conscious of their
great danger. All might have been well with them, for Har-
old's deco}' completely deceived the Indians and drew them
after him ; but as William rode along, the path which heretofore
was well screened by a dense growth of weeds and small trees,
led into a clear spot, and as he looked below he knew that he was
seen by the redskins. He urged his horse on by every induce-
ment, but his heart sank when he heard the crackling of twigs
and shouts behind him. The Indians were following on foot,
and almost any of their sturdy vvarriors might overtake his
sorely tired steed. But he was nearing the top, upon which
welcome fact he was congratulating himself, when looking
back he was astounded and appalled at seeing a dozen forms
not twenty j^ards below him. They might have shot him. The
chief had ordered the capture of all alive, to reach the top was
now Williams only chance, and he did gain it, only to find
himself almost surrounded. Still there was one way of escape
from the clutches of the savages, if not from death. Just be-
fore him, the hill he was on came to an abrupt ending, as if
chiseled down by some mighty Titan. To think of Jumping
down a hundred feet into the ravine below was to think only
of death. The question flashed to his mind, would it not be as
well to leave them capture the girl. They would save her life
at least. He could not ask her, for she lay as if dead On his
arm. He was on the point of calling to his foes to come when
above the shouts around him he heard Harold call far from be-
low: "Jump the horse over, and keep well on him; they have
wounded me to death."
William did not stop longer to think. He turned the ani-
mal's head toward the precipice and with a shout his horse
rose in the air and then sank with alarming velocity through
40 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
space. No one these many years has seen a miracle performed.
On this night one was done. The horse strucl< the ground
like a piece of lead. He fell upon no rocks, but as he touched
the earth William sprang off with his charge and a glance
showed him the animal was dead. He knew there were no In-
dians at that point and plunging into the thicket encumbered
with the girl, he was able to escape and fortunately meet a
party of emigrants in the morning.
When your agreeable patriarch has told you all this you
will thank him for the story. But he will hastily say that it
is not yet finished, and your narrator proceeds.
Harold Wingans was right when he shouted to his brother
that he was mortally wounded. He fell with the last word upon
his lips, and little, I assure you, was his handsome body re-
spected by those red devils. But there is still a more melan-
choly ending of this sad tale.
No matter how treacherous or murderous an Indian's
nature may be, it can love, and can be true to that love. The old
chief's son inourned for days and months the maiden he loved,
and many were the fruitless searches he made for her. He
began to visit the spot where the great leap had been made.
He went there often. One day he came down among his people,
for he would not allow them to leave their encampment, laugh-
ing and singing love songs, and his hair gaily decorated with
gaudy flowers and pretty grasses, while he danced through the
camp with the lightest of steps. His people looked at him and
then at each other. His father, the chief, old feeble and sick
saw him and the old man fell back dead. It broke his heart
when he saw his noble boy a helpless maniac. Then the tribe left
those grounds, but they could not prevail upon the disappointed
lover to accompany them. He climbed again to the fatal spot,
and there for five years he lived and labored. At what did he
labor? you ask. Go to-m.orrow up a narrow pathway straight
out from Market St., Lykens, follow it, and you will be treading
where William Wingans rode with the rescued white girl in his
arms. When you get to the top you will find where he made that
great jump. Look over the edge and you will see about five feet
below tw^o large recesses cut in the solid rock. In one of these.
Directory and pictorial review 41
both cut by himself, the heart broken Indian lover sat day by
day, waiting in silence for the maid who came not, until ten
years later, when William AVingans brought his wife and child
among these wilds with a liunting party. Her Indian adorer
saw her as he looked up from his lonely seat. He smiled and
motioned to the recess beside him. Then he closed his eyes,
AVhen Wingans reached him he w^as dead. The ancient legend
teller stops speaking. Is that all? you ask. "That is all, except
that we still call the place, as it was named long ago. Love
Eock."
42 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
LYKENS VALLEY COAL— WHEN DISCOVERED.
On a Sabbath day in the year 1825, Jacob Burd, Sr., and
Peter Kimes, then living at the lower end of Short Mountain,
in what Avas then Lykens township, in the northeastern part of
Dauphin County, went out on the mountain for a stroll, and
when near the top paused, and took in the magnificent view of
the valley below. One of them having a stick in his hand, care-
lessly dug it into the ground. The dirt seemed suspiciously
black. They made haste to communicate this to others, and
soon the opinion became general that there must be coal de-
posits in the mountain. Not many days thereafter a party were
successful in digging out what proved to be an excellent quality
of coal and a road was made and the coal brought down the
mountain in wagons.
The tract of land before comparatively worthless, now be-
came an object of great commercial value, the richness of the
coal being fully established as the very first order of red ash,
with ashes heavy, and containing 89 percent of fixed carbon.
The tract consisted of 1600 acres and was purchased a short time
before this by Mr. Thomas P. Cope, then a well-known merchant
of Philadelphia, for the paltry sum of $400.00 the consideration
being one-half in store goods and the rest in shoe buckles. These
lands were for a time controlled by IMr. Cope but afterwards'
became the property of the Short Mt. Coal Company, superin-
tended by Job R. Tyson, a prominent attorney of Philadelphia
and a son-in-law of Mr. Cope.
Coal M^as gotten out of the moutnain in a small and scat-
tered way until the year 1831, when the Wiconisco Coal Com-
pany (named after the Wiconisco Creek, a stream in the im-
mediate vicinity) was organized and consisted of six members,
as follows: Simon Gratz, Samuel Richards, George H. Thomp-
son, and Charles R. Thompson, all of Philadelphia; and Henry
Shreiner and Henry Shaeffer of Dauphin County. The first
named gentleman, Mr. Gratz, was possessed of rather large
means and visited the region frequently, taking great interest
in it's development. Work was now begun in the drifts in the
gap at Bear Creek, a tributary of Wiconisco Creek, and coal
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
43
was sold in the \dcinity in 1832. James Todarff, John Brown,
and William Hall, who came from Schuylkill County, were the
first experienced miners to lend their skill to the great work.
It may be stated here that, the Short Mountain Coal Company,
where this work was commenced, is a prong of the Southern An-
44
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
thracite Coal, field, forming a narrow basin, hardly a mile wide at
the head of the valley. The Southern side of the basin of the
North dip is the one that has been worked from that time to
the present.
Old Wiconisco Canal Basin, Millersburg
Loading the canal boats on the Wloonisco Canal, from the
Lykens Valley Trestles
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
45
The Summit Branch Trestle Work, Susquehanna River
and IVIt. Patricia
End of Lykens Valley Trestle and End of Wiconisco Canal
April 7tli, 1830 an act of Legislature was passed formiiij'-
the Lykens Valley Railroad and Coal Company, the object of
which was to construct a railroad from :Millersburg, a point on
46
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
the Susquehanna river 16 miles distant. The road was located
on the North foot of Berry's mountain by a Mr. Ash win, an
English civil engineer. The road was constructed under the
direction of ^ohn Paul, Jr., civil engineer, Henry Sheaffer,
superintendent, and Simon Sallada Director. This was the
Lykens Valley Basin and Wharf also end of Old Wiconisco Canal
fourth railroad in the United States, and the first in Dauphin
County, built for the purpose of carrying Anthracite Coal. The
road was completed in 1834, and coal was taken to Millersburg
by horse power on a flat strip rail. It required two days to make
a trip to Millersburg, as the road was a single track, badly con-
structed, and the cars frequently jumped the track. A num-
ber of Ark loads of coal were shipped down the Susquehanna
river from Millersburg in the Spring of 1834. Coal could only
be shipped in this way in time of a high freshet, as ordinarily
the river would have been too shallow. This being too spasmodic,
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
47
" r^^/a^ X
Old Lykens Valley Breaker
Shafl at East Brookside
48
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
The Old Brookside Breaker
another plan soon suggested itself. The coal cars were boated
across the river from the terminus of the railroad at Millers-
burg to the Pennsylvania canal at Mount Patrick on the op-
posite side of the river.
The Lykens Valley company erected a set of shutes at this
point, where they shipped their coal to market. The first boat
load of Lykens Valley coal sent by canal, left Mt. Patrick Satur-
day, April 19th, 1834 by a boat number 76, with 43 tons, Capt.
C. Faunce in charge the shipment was consigned to Thomas
Borbridge, Columbia, Pennsylvania.
Shipments continued in this way until 1845, when the
railroad was worn out, and nothing more was done until 1848,
when the road was re-graded and laid with T rail. The Wico-
nisco Canal as built in 1848 and shipments resumed and rapidly
increased from that time. Coal was mostly shipped in lump
form until 1848, when the old Lykens Valley coal breaker was
built, and aasorted sizes were obtained for shipment. Since
this time the Coal Industry has been largely revolutionized.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
49
^^ ^^riST
The Summit Branch Breaker at Williamstown
and millions of dollars have been expended in modern methods
of mining" and preparing the prodnct for market. Macliinery
has replaced the older methods and just this year 1922 a modern
electric plant has been completed at the Lykens Colliery, which
will furnish snlficient electric power to the local mines of the
Susquehanna Collieries Co. This huge plant has been erected
at a cost of something like two million dollars, the fuel to oper-
ate this plant consists only of the coal dirt, heretofore carelessly
thrown away. A modern and proficient shaft has been sunlc,
which enables a quicker and more increased out[)Ut of coal per
day with a great depreciation in the costs. In the Pioneer days
of this industry it required two days to make a trip to IMillers-
burg with a few small cars full of coal — to-day a train load of
about fifty cars holding approximately thirty tons each, leave
the mines for market everv twenty four hours.
50
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
The New $2,000,000.00 Electric Plant at the Lykens Colliery
New Breaker at Brookside Colliery
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 51
LYKENS TOWNSHIP AND GRATZ BOROUGH
Lykens Township
Upon the petition of inhabitants of Upper Paxtang town-
ship asking for a division of said townships, tiio court issued
an order at their January sessions, 1810, to three Commissioners
to inquire into the propriety of granting said prayer, and to
make a plot or draft of the townsliip, etc. The Commissioners
reported in favor of a division of the township hy vhe following
line, to wit: ''Beginning at a pine tree in the Halifax township
line on the Summit of Berry's Mountain at Peter Mountain.
Gap ; thence north ten degrees east along and near a public road
which leads from Halifax to Sunbury through Hain's Gap,
four hundred and sixty perches to a post on the north side of
Wiconisco Creek near the said road ; thence north eighty perches
to a pine ; thence running along the public road aforesaid north
five degrees west four hundred and seventy perches to Buffing-
ton's Church, leaving the said church on the westward; thence
a course north ten degrees west, leaving the dwelling of John
Hopple westward eleven hundred and fifty perches to Mahan-
tango Creek," etc.
The report then follows the lines around the two divisions
of Upper Paxtang as they were after taking off Halifax town-
ship (running the lines across the river). It is therefore un-
necessary to follow them further here, as the line given above
shows the divisions of what was then Upper Paxtang township.
This report was confirmed by the court on the 3rd of September,
1810, and it was ordered that the eastern division be called
Lykens township. Lykens township was reduced in 1819 by
the formation of Mifflin township from Upper Paxtang and
Lykens, and further in 1840 when that portion of south of the
north side of Coal or Thick Mountain was erected into Wico-
nisco township.
This township and the valley is named for Andrew Lycans,
one of the earliest pioneers of this section, and to whom full
reference has been made in the sketch of Lykens Valley proper.
52 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
GRATZ BOROUGH
Gratz was laid out in 1805 by Simon Gratz. It is situated on
the road leading" from Millersburg to Reading, thirty miles
from Harrisburg. It was incorporated into a borough April
3, 1852. In 1838, Mrs. Frey kept the tavern and Solomon
Shindle a store.
The oldest family of this place is (Harman) lioffnum, one
of the earliest settlers in the valley and a prominent family.
Squire Hott'man had been magistrate for a number of years.
When he came to Gratz in 1819 there were only five houses in
the place ; one was the oldest house, built here by Ludwig Schoff-
stall, now the old Umholtz propert}^ The second was built by
Lewis Faust, who sold it to Rev. William Hedel, now belong-
ing to the estate of A. K. Kepler, deceased. The third was oc-
cupied by George Feagley, and the fourth by Adonijah
]\Iatthias, a Frenchman. The fifth was occupied by George
Crapp, a tenant of Mr. Wise. The store Avas kept by Conrod
Frey, then by his widow, and later by her son-in-law, Solomon
Shindle.
The first Burgess of Gratz was Theodore Gratz in 1852, and
the town clerk was James Kissinger 1S52.
This town, located on the old Reading road, was the centre
and field of the old-time Militia musters, at which thousands
used to assemble to witness the evolution of the battalions,
Jacob Hoover had a noted grist-mill two miles distant, on the
Little Wiconisco. After the opening of the Coal mines a post
office was established. The ridge in which the borough stands
was in the old times called "Wild Cat Ridge," from its being
the abode in pioneer times of wild-cats.
St. Simeon's Evangelical Lutheran and Reformed Congre-
gations were organized in 1823, and until 1832 preaching was
had in a house built by INIr. Gratz. A joint Church edifice w-as
built in 1832. Rev. Isaac Gerhart was the first Reformed and
Rev. John Peter Shindel the first Lutheran pastor. The pastors
of St. John's Lutheran and Hoffman Reformed Churches have
generally preached here.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 53
Iloffiuan -Reformed Church. — This old church edifice, a
two-story frame, built over a half century, is two and one-fourth
miles from Berrysburg, three from Gratz, and is in Lykens
township. The ground on which it was erected was donated
by Squire John Hoffman, who was a magistrate from his twenty-
fifth year until his death in 1877.
Coleman Church. — This Union Church of the Lutheran and Re-
formed Churches is near the Schuylkill County line, in the
extreme eastern part of Lykens township. St. Matthew's is the
name of the Lutheran Congregation, which is supplied with
preaching by pastors of St. John's Church.
Early History of Gratz
Ludwig Schoffstall, who came from Lancaster county, built
the first house in Gratz, a two story log.. Frey kept his store in
it for a long time — he then attached the tavern.
Conrad Frey built the tavern about 1820. These buildings
were followed in the succession named by the log dwellings
of Matthias Bellow, Faust , Kev. Handel, Daniel Fegley, An-
thony Matthias, Squire Reedy and John Reichard. The first
church was the brick, built in 1832 — German Reformed and
Lutheran. The first pastors, Rev. Isaac Gerhart and John Peter
Shindel. Before the brick church was erected, meetings were
held by the said pastors in an old log structure, built for that
purpose by Simon Gratz. The first school house was built in
1822 by Levi Buffington, the CaiToenter of the old Hoffman
Church, which he erected a^bout 1771.
Anthony Hautz was the first pastor of the old Hoffman
Church. He came back when he was seventy-five years of age —
a very small, gray headed man, about five feet in height. A
grist mill was built quite early, about a quarter of a mile from
town, by one John Salladay, and ran by a stream of water
from a spring-wheel over twenty feet high. Mr. Salladay
was one of first settlers. Jacob Laudenslager was also one of tlie
old settlers — lived about the present town, and had patented
400 acres in one tract. Old John Hoft'man lived a quarter of a
mile South of the Hoffman Church. Andrew Hoffman lived
east of Jacob Loudenslager a quarter of a ndle and had patented
54 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
about 100 acres. Peter Stein, adjoining, had 300 acres. Peter
Hoffman lived down the Wiconisco creek, a mile this side of the
Forge and had 400 acres. The old Reading road was made in
1800. Peter Hain owned the Gap west of town. The Gap was
named for him. He originally owned the lands upon which
Uniontown is now situated, before Hepner. Adam Heller laid
out Berry sburg. He lived where Daniel Romberger now lives,
which was formerly called Hellerstown. The place where the
brick church is now located, near Gratz, was formerly called
Wild Cat Ridge, on account of a great numlxr of Wild Cats
congregating there. Conrad Frey came from Reading Pa. The
Methodist Church was built in 1846.
HARRY SMITH
Wholesale and Retail
Temperance Drinks ana
Ice Cream
Pool Parlor, Cigars, Tobacco ana Confections
Big Assortment of Records
Full Line Patent Medicines and Drugs
GRATZ, PENNA.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
55
MR. HARRY SI\IITH
^^^^ Gratz, Pa.
L ^^W^ ^^^' ^^^^^^^^ ^'^^ '^f'^^^ ^^1 Bethle-
m ^, ^im hem, Pa., and first came to the bor-
ough of Gratz in the year 1898 as
a public exliibitor. In 1899 he
returned to Gratz and settled in
the borough permanently opening
and conducting a gymnasium and
engaging'' in amusement produc-
tions throughout the state. He
is a great enthusiast for training
dogs, cats, goats, etc. — and has been
very successful along this line. For the past 18 years he has con-
ducted the leading confection, soda, lunch and billiard parlor in
Gratz. He has also attached to his property a large and spacious
hall, in Avhich he still exhibits first class motion picture plays, en-
joying the unique distinction of being the pioneer motion pic-
ture exhibitor in the entire valley. It is Mr. Smith v ho is
spoken of in the historj- brief of Gratz Fa!ir. Aside from his
much business, he is the patentee of several national amuse-
ment contrivances as well as the manufacturer and has shipped
"The Smith Jazz Swing" as far as Australia and Canada.
He is a keenly interested citizen of the borough and well re-
spected throughout the community. IMr. Smith has been Presi-
dent of The Gratz Fair Association since 1908.
GRATZ FAIR ASSOCIATION
This fair association, and the only one in Dauphin County
was first organized in the year 1873. The grounds are located
just East of the historic borough of Gratz, and reput.ed to
be one of the very best sites in the state. The track is an
excellant one and manv horses that have won great honors and
56
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
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DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
57
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58 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
some that are still taking the larger cups to day, have at one
time or another spent considerable time in training on this track
as well as competing in the races held annually in connection
with the fair.
As in the course of the life of nearly every project, there
arrived a time when the continuance of Gratz Fair held in a
balance. This happened along the year 1905, at this time it
was decided that the proposition was no longer a paying pro-
ject and the interested parties at that time decided to discon-
tinue it and sell the grounds in lots. The sale was commenced
an several lots disposed of, when Mr, Harry Smith of Gratz, a
wide-awake business man and thoroughly experienced Showman,
offered to buy the grounds on the condition that the same be
leased to him for a period of two years in order that he might
determine further it's practibility, at the end of which period
he would then purchase. This was done and it was during
the years 1906-1907 that the fair was conducted under the super-
vision of Mr. Smith. The two year try-out, proved so won-
derful a success, contingent with the injection of good clean
amusements and the creation of more instilled interest in horse
racing; and at the end of the period a company was organized
by Mr, Smith, and the grounds taken over. Since that date keen
interest manifests itself in the Gratz Fair. Annually crowds
of thousands attend its three to four day diversion and amuse-
ment, and as it were the old ground has been revived to the
twentieth century type and today is referred to as the play
ground of the valley.
"Who has lived and dwelt in this old historic valley and
never at any time attended the Fair would be rather a diffi-
cult task for one to solve. Fine exhibition buildings have been
from time to time erected, large grandstands to accommodate
hundreds have been erected, modern conveniences for the pa-
trons and exhibitors installed, etc., etc., and today on Fair-Day
one visiting the grounds must be impressed with the wonderful
spectacle presented, with blaring bands, difusion of colors, toys
souvenirs, horses, automobiles, in short the scene would impress
one as of a large tented fairy-land, overflowing with joymakers
and attractions.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 59
The Author must pause to remind you that the bigger por-
tion of all that is said of and seen of Grratz Fair is nothing more
than the results of one who has the affair at heart and who is
largely responsible for its present day success, this one is none
other than Mr. Harry Smith, who at the critical time came to
the front and not only saved it from oblivion but better still,
made it greater than ever before.
When Mr. Smith organized the company in 1906 the direc-
tors were :
Mr. Harry Smith, Gratz, Pa.
J. J. Coleman, Gratz, Pa.
M. A. Hartman, Gratz, Pa.
J. W. Phillips, Gratz, Pa.
LeM'is Hoffman, Gratz, Pa.
Jonathan Smeltz, Gratz, Pa.
Rueben Stiely, Gratz, Pa.
P. J. Artz, Gratz, Pa.
D. S. Artz, Gratz, Pa.
A. C. Artz, Gratz, Pa.
William Heckler, Lykens, Pa.
Dr. A. B. Longshore Herndon, Pa.
Malcolm Stewart, Williamstown, Pa.
D. Edgar Rank, Williamstown, Pa.
Aaron Daniels, Gratz, Pa.
George Eby, .• . . Lykens. Pa.
Dr. W. E. Lebo, Gratz, Pa.
W. 0. Rogers, Gratz, Pa.
John Geist, Williamstown, Pa.
Abe Gross, Gratz, Pa.
D. S. lOinger, Gratz, Pa.
This company Avan organized and chartered, and the stock
was sold throughout the entirety of the Lykens-Williams Val-
ley, to name the stockholders here would require too much
space. The illustrations accompanying this article speak well
for the fair grounds. Thesie pictures were made June 21st,
1922, by Mr. Ed. Smink, of Lykens, Pa. You will note that at
this date we were able to have three training horses line up on
60
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
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DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
61
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62 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
two of the exposures. There is not possibly a week goes by
but that there are some horses, either local in the valley or
from some removed city, training on the track.
The present Officers and Directors are as follows:
Officers
President, Harry Smith
Vice-President, Harvey Miller
Cor. Secretary, Guy Klinger
Recording Secretary, Darius J. Wiest
Supt. Poultry Dept., A. W. Klinger
Supt. Fruit House, U. H. Daniel
Supt. Implement Dept.,. . . .W. E. Brosious
Directors
Harry Smith Wm. Hechler
Harvey Miller A. E. Willier
Jos. Laudensilager M. E. Klinger
Darius J. Wiest Amos Hartman
J. E. A. Moyer Allen Hartman
J. W. Phillips W. E. Brosious
W. 0. Leitzel Chas. Hartman
Daniel Kebaeh . U. H. Daniel
Guy R. Klinger Goe. W. Eby
John E. Geist
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
63
MRS. DANIEL MILLER
Wife of the founder of
Millersburg
Photo by Noll
HISTORY OF THE BOROUGH OF MILLERSBURG
I\Iillsburg borough is situated on the Susquehanna River,
at the confluence of the Wiconisco Creek, twenty three miles
north of Harrisburg, on the Northern Central and Lykens Val-
ley Branch Rail Roads. The place was settled some years
prior to the time it was laid out. It derived its name from
Daniel Lliller and John Miller, who emigrated from Lancaster
County about 1790. They took up some four hundred acres
of land and began a settlement. It was laid by Daniel ]\Iiller
into lots in July 1807, and incorporated into a borough April
8, 1850 from which time its progress has been rapid. Daniel
Miller died in October 1828, leaving one child, Mary, who on
the 11th clay of February, 1838, married George W. Bowers.
64
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
The first settlers in tliis region- known as ' ' Lykens Valley, ' '
were French Huguenots and Germans. Francis Jacques or
Q.
ft,
'Jacobs," Connnonly known as "French Jaculj, " Larue or
LaRoy, Shora, Sandoe, the Kleins, AVerts, Steevers, Shutts,
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
65
Ferrees, Millers, Andrew Lycans and John R'ewalt are found
among the earliest names of white men who settled in this sec-
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tion. About the time John and Daniel Miller settled here,
"French Jacob" built his grist-mill on the north bank of the
ee
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Wiconisco Creek, just above the foot of Race Street, and near
to which, sometime before, he had built his log cabin, then con-
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sidered quite a pretentious structure, large and strongly put
together, and well provided with loop-holes — a sort of fort to
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL, REVIEW
67
which the settlers might fiy for safety in case of attack from the
Indians. Here was taught the first school kept by Daniel Miller
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the proprietor of the town. Neither cabin nor mill are longer
to be seen. Domestic trouble had caused at an early date the
68
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Photo by Noll Old Bridge across Wiconisco Creek, Millersburg
Lykens Valley R. R. Looking East from Balcony of Old Station
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
69
owner "Jacobs" to remove forever from the spot. The place
(mill and cabin) fell under the ban of superstition, several of
the settlers having seen about it divers, strange and unearthly
Photo by Noll View of Millersburg Cemetery
appearances, "shapes, dire, dismal and horrible." Time and
the spoilations of men have done their work, and the almost oblit-
erated channel of the old head-race alone is seen to mark the
70
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Millersburg School House from 1825 to 1860 — On present site
of the Johnson-Baillie Shoe Factory
Northern Central Yard, looking south from Old Station at Millersburg
(X denotes Old Style Switch)
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
71
spot where once was the forest home of the old French Hugue-
not. Upon a part of this land Daniel Miller, the then sole pro-
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prietor through Peter Williams his surveyor, laid out the town-
lots in July 1807. These lots sold very readily, being drawn by
72
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
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DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
73
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LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Photo by Noll
Residential Section, East Union Street, Millersburg
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
75
Photo by Noll
i;. il. iJepot, Millersburg
Photo by Noll
M. E. Cliurcli, Millersburg
76
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Photo hy Noll
Brubaker Building, from Center Street, Millersburg
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
77
I koto by Noll
Park, Market Square
'hoto by Noll
Scene on Pine Street, Millersburg
78
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Photo bit Soil Kepner Building, Market Street. Showing Post Office, Mlllersburg
Photo hy Noll
Reformed Church, Mlllersburg
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
79
lottery, and soon the place assumed the importance of a rapidly
growing and prosperous town. The town is regularly laid
out, with spacious streets crossing each other at right angles.
Lutheran Church. Center Street, Millersburg
Photo hy Soil
and practical alley ways giving passage to the rear of each
building. The Susquehanna River at this point is a mile in
width, stretching away in lake-like form some three miles. Ircm
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DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL, REVIEW
81
Berry's Mountain in the South to the Mahantango Mountain
in the North, at which points, forcing its way through the^e
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mountains much diminished in its bed, it hurriedly tumbles
over rocks and pebbles of the passage, winding quickly out of
sight.
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Photo hy Noll SOME OF THE PIONEER HOUSES OF MILLERSBURG
The building In the center was built by Daniel Miller, founder of the town and was his home.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
83
The first school was taught in a log cabin or fort by Daniel
Miller, the founder of the town, and he was succeeded by a Mrs.
Miller. This fort was built about 1794: on the bauks of the
Wiconisco Creek as a place of safety from the surrounding In-
GEORGE M. BRUBAKER
Who did a Great Deal for Millersburg
dians. The next school was built about 1812 or 1813, on Tnion
Street, and was taught by a well educated German. This house
was superseded by a poorly constructed brick buildiug and tluit
by a frame structure on middle Street. In 1833 a select school
was taught by Mrs. Susan Barringer, a lady of considerable
culture, wiio established a good educational sentiment, and was
succeeded by Samuel McYan, a man of scholastic al)ilities.
About 1844 or 1845 the free-school system was adopted, tifter
being defeated twice, as the town and township were at that
time one school district. The most active school men of the
g4 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
town during these days were — Jacob Seal, Dr. Eobert Aueh-
rauty, David Link, Simon Wert, Adam Light, John Ebery, Ben-
jamin Musser and Mathias Freck.
In 1846 there were in Millersburg about eighty dwellings,
two stores, one mill and three churches. In 1850 it had five
hundred population, which it doubled in 1860 and trebled in
1880, until now 1922 the population is 3000
The Millersburg Herald (newspaper) was founded and es-
tablished in January 1875 by J. B. Seal. It is a weekly family
Journal, specially devoted to local news. It is a four page sheet
and enjoys a large circulation. The paper is published today
by Hay Bowman, and is called the Millersburg Sentinel.
The officers of the borough since its incorporation in 1850
have been — 1850, Simon Wert; 1852, J. J. Bowman; 1853,
Jacob Seal; 1855, Jacob Rothvon; 1857, Geo. M. Brubaker ;
1858, J L. Bomgardner; 1859, C. Penrose; 1862, Geo. Slate;
1864, B. G. Steever; 1865, Simon Wert; 1867, A. Douden; 1870
Simon Wert; 1872, J. S. Musser; 1874, H. Frank; 1876, J. S.
Musser; 1879 B. G. Steever; 1880, J. L. Freck.
The Literary Society was organized — 1876; Trinity Ee-
formed Church erected — 1833 ; St. Pauls Lutheran^ Church
erected — 1856; Evangelical organized — 1840, erected — 1860;
Methodist Episcopal Church erected — 1858.
The First National Bank was organized Feb. 12, 1867, as
the Lykens Valley Bank. The present building was erected in
1869.
The Millersburg Bank was organized in the fall of 1868.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
85
* —
First National Bank
MiUersburg, Pa.
INCORPORATED 1875
Officers
Directors
A. G. BASHOAR,
C. p. POLK,
A. G. Bashoar, Pres. levi walborn,
C. p. PoLfi, Vice Pres. a. m. romberger,
J. W. Hoffman, Cashier s. s. pick,
L. M. SHEPP,
HOWARD HELWIG
CAPITAL $ 50,000.00
SURPLUS ANT) PROFITS $ 85,000.00
DEPOSITS .$502,000.00
RESO'ORCES $700,000.00
'' We want your patronage,
OUT motto is Service "
This Bank is a Member of the Federal Reserve System
86 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Millersburg Baking
Company
JOBE'S QUALITY BREAD AND
FANCY CAKES
110 North Street Millersburg, Pa. .
INSURANCE OF ALL KINDS
J. H. Rowe & Sons
MILLERSBURG, PA.
C C. McLAUGHLIM
Billiard Parlors
SMOKERS' SUPPLIES
Soft Drinks, Candy
Russ Bros. Velvet Ice Cream
MARKET STREET MILLERSBURG, PA.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 87
*•
SUBSCRIBE TO YOUR HOME NEIVSPAPER
TH E
"MILLERSBURG SENTINEL"
Established 1884
ISSUED EVERY FRIDAY MORNING
$1.50 THE YEAR
Try Us For Quality
JOB PRINTING
HAY W. BOWMAN, Editor^Propnctor
Confectionery Supplies Novelties
Watkins Candy Co.
W. W. WATKINS, Proprietor
WHOLESALE CONFECTIONS
Distributors for Loiciiey's and Goss' Chocolates
MILLERSBURG, PA.
88
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
JQ LJT7/^lZt?t>nP Marble and Granite Works
. O. nil/V>(lVll/rVl MILLERSBURG, PA.
Herbert N. Miller
Dry Goods, Notions, Groceries
MILLERSBURG, PA.
SOLE AGENT FOR FLORSHEIM SHOES
w»— ■ ! ■;— t^f^f^ f
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
89
A Scene Along Wiconisco Creek
HISTORY OF WICONISCO.
The 90th. section of an act of the General Assembly, passed
July 2, 1839, Pamp. laws, Page 602, provides:
That that part of Lykens Township, in the County of
Dauphin, North of lines to be run by the Supervisors of said
Township, "Commencing at a bridge crossing the head of Sny-
der 's Mill Dam at the IVIifflin Township line ; thence east to the
hand board in the forks of the road on the lands of Haldeman
and Elder ; tehnce a straight line to a house of Peter Rickert,
at the foot of the Short Mountain; thence east along the foot
of the mountain (north side) to the Schuylkill County line,
shall hereafter form a separate Township and shall be called
Wiconisco.
The early history of Wiconisco is embraced in that of the
valley proper. The erection of this Township divested the old
Township of Lykens of all its coal mining operations; all the
collieries and coal beds now lying in this Wiconisco Township.
90
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
The contiguity of the town of Lykens, however, to that of
Wiconisco Borough being less than one half a mile distant, still
gives the former borough the prestige of being the business
centre of the Susquehanna Collieries Company coal operations.
The enterprising town of Wiconisco lies on the historical
stream and in the Township of the same name. It is located
on a tract of forty eight acres of land sold in 1826 by Greorge
Pearce as executor of James Way. The condition of the sale
being that the person purchasing the tract, should pay imme-
diately after the sale, twenty five dollars as hand money. This
Trolley Bridge, Wiconisco
forty eight acre tract was struck down to John Gilbert for
twelve dollars. IMr. Pearce then demanded of Mr. Gilbert the
twenty five dollars hand money, according to the conditions,
which the latter would not pay and did not take the land. Then
Daniel Hoffman agreed to take it, but according to the deed,
he only paid twelve dollars after all. After Hoffman's death his
heirs sold it for something like fifty dollars per acre. Henry
Shaefer opened the first store in a small log house, in the year
1832. Another early settler was his brother Michael Shaefer,
who died in November, 1849.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
91
The town was laid out in the year 1848 by Thomas Couch
and Peter W. Shaefer. At about this time, Benjamin Garman,
who kept store several years prior to 1848 removed it to Lykens.
Wiconisco is largely settled by miners, who with their families
compose an industrious and thrifty class of people. Lykens is
separated from Wiconisco by tlie Wiconisco Creek. The Wicon-
isco Tanery was at one time the leading industrial plant of the
town, and was owned by Geo. D. Moyer & son. This establish-
ment, however, has some years back been completely destroyed
by fire, and was never rebuilt.
View of Pottsviile Street, Wiconisco, taken some years back
The Methodist Episcopal Church was erected in 1854; The
Evangelical Association wa.s organized in 1831 ; The Welsh Bab-
tist Church was erected in the year 1865.
The number of houses in and about Wisconisco in 1864 was
probably not twenty. A man by the name of Lance built tbc
first house in Wiconisco, where the Methodist Church now
stands. Another house stood in the swamp, below the railroad,
then occupied by a man named Wagner. Michael Shaeffer built
the tavern. lie never lived to take possession of it — died before
92
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
I
6
CL
a
o
15
« *;
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a c
.£ °
If
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3
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CO
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 93
it was completed and was buried in the old graveyard near the
company's stables. He first kept tavern in an old frame house
near the dirt bank. Many of the first miners boarded with him.
Behind the old breaker there were two houses — one occupied
by M. Couch, the company's superintendent. Michael Shaeffer.
with his brother Henry, came from Germany with their father
when mere boys. It is thought from Hesse Darmstadt. An old
block house near the company 's stables was the Meeting house —
Methodist. Mr. Shaeffer took the coal trucks down to Millers-
burg with horses. The track began behind the old breaker. At
that time ' ' Shinplasters, " were in vogue. The miners received
no more than four dollars a week. Six dollars was considered
very high wages. A man by the name of Frederic Alvord then
received the highest wages, eight dollars per week, for black-
smithing for the company. In the beginning the trucks were
only driven once a week to Millersburg, in trains of eight or
ten, drove only gangways then — no breasts. Mr. Bordner drove
the first gangway of the Short Mountain mines. During the
earlier mining period the men were paid only every three or
four months.
Established 1868 S. H. MILLER, Manager
Samuel Miller ESTATE
GENERAL MERCHANDISE
54 years of Faithful Service
WicoNisco^ Pa.
•*
94
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
W. H. KISSINGER AND COMPANY
WICOMISCO, PA.
THE STORE, that stands for a square deal for evt'ryl)ody —
that has accumulated an increasing list of satisfied
customers.
that has been the Workingman's friend, having
supplied his needs in adversity as well as pros-
perity- —
that for a number of years has supplied the mer-
chandise needs of the people of Wiconisco and
vicinity —
THIS STORE SOLICITS YOUR PATRONAGE
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 95
HISTORY OF MIFFLIN TOWNSHIP AND BERRYSBURG.
MIFFLIN TOWNSHIP
At a Court of Quarter Sessions held the 22nd day of Oc-
tober, 1818, an order was issued to three commissioners to in-
quire into the propriety of dividing the townships of Upper
Paxtang" and Lykens, then embracing the whole of Lykens
Valley, into three townships, as had been petitioned for by the
inhabitants of said valley. The Commissioners reported that
they were of opinion that the two aforesaid townships ought to
be divided into three, and that they had according]}^ run and
marked the lines of division as follows to wit:
"The first township beginning at Maliantango Creek, a short
distance below Miller's fording, on the old Sunburj^ road ; tlience
down the same to the river, and across said river to the mouth
of West Mahantango Creek ; thence down the western shore of
the Susquehanna to a point opposite to Berry's Mountain;
thence by Halifax Township across said river and along the
summit of said mountain five miles 200 perches to a chestnut-oak
tree: thence north 71/9 west 6 miles 80 perches to the beginning,
wliich we called Upper Paxtang Township. The second we
have called Berry Township, beginning at the Chestnut-oak a-
foresaid; thence by the summit of Berry's Mountain aforesaid
4 miles 260 perches to a small Chestnut-oak; thence north 6
west 7 miles (through Hain's Gap) to Mahantango Creek afore-
said; thence down the same to the point aforesaid, near Miller's
fording; thence by the line of Upper Paxtang aforesaid (re-
versed) south 7I/2 degrees east 6 east 80 perches to the beginn-
ing. The third beginning at the same Chestnut-oak aforesaid ;
thence along the summit of Berry's Mountain aforesaid 10 miles
to the line of Schuylkill County; thence by the same 8I4 miles
to Mahantango Creek aforesaid ; thence down the same to Berry
Township aforesaid; thence by the same south 6 degrees east
7 miles to the beginning, and which we have called Lykens
Township."
96 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
This report was confirmed by the court March 12, 1819,
except so far as the new or center division which the court
ordered to be called Mifflin Township instead of Berry, as sug-
gested by the commission. It was named for General and Gov-
ernor Thomas Mifflin.
The Township is bounded on the north by Northumberland
County, east by Lykens Township, south by Washington Town-
ship, and on the west by Upper Paxtang Township. The Ma-
hantango Mountains run the entire length of the upper part of
the township, the Mahantango Creek, the Northumberland
County boundary, being at the foot on the north side. The
township is well watered and tbere are many fine productive
farms. Much of the history of the township is identified with
the history of the Lykens Valley proper; that which may have
transpired during the eventful eras of the valleys existance will
be found in other portions of this book. It contains two im-
portant towns, Berry sburg and Uniontown. Berrysburg being
the only one in the Lykens-Williams Valley.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 97
BERRYSBURG.
Berrysburg is situated on the road leading from IMillers-
biirg through Lykens into Schuylkill County, thirty-five miles
from Harrisburg. It was incorporated into a borough Dec. 14,
1869. The town was laid out by John xVdams Heller, in Dec.
1819, w^ho owned a large tract of land, including the present
town and a farm adjoining, now the old Daniel Romburger
property.
Pleller was of a pioneer family in the valley, but removed,
1839 to Sugar Valley, and subsequently to Ohio. John Paul
Jr. of Elizabethville surveyed the town for Heller, who called
it Berrysburg, from the mountain named Berry's lying in the
vicinity, but for many years it went bj^ name of the j'yroprie-
tor.
A school was organized in Berrysburg about 1826. The
different organized churches owned small tracts of land, from
ten to twenty acres, on which a schoolhouse was erected, all one
story with divisions, one part to be occupied by the teacher and
his family and the other as a school-room. All the schools were
taught in private houses except three, which were built by the
citizens. The land in some cases was purchased for a few
dollars and some donated, but in either instance only sufficient
to erect the building. On a fixed day the inhabitants assemb-
led at the place where the house was to be built, and some w^ent
felling trees, others to hauling logs, and the rest erected
the house. The furniture was made of pine or oak boards nailed
against the wall ; the benches made of slats.
The first Chief Burgess of Berrysburg was Jonathan
Tobias 1870, and the first town clerk was Peter S. Bergstresser.
Berrysburg Seminary
This institution was organized about sixty-nine years ago,
but in the lapse of time its building was sold to the town for
public school purposes. On the reorganization in 1879 the sem-
98
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
inary secured the property known as the town hall for its room.
Nearly one-half of the teachers in the upper end of the county
have been connected with this seminary at one time or other. It
was built by Rev. H, S. Bosler, and its first teacher, in 1851,
was Edward Witraan. The seminaiy has long} since been
bandoned.
The Old Berrysburg Seminary — This Building no longer stands
St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church was erected in
1791.
Union Salem Church of the Lutheran and Reformed Con-
gregations was built in 1844, and rebuilt in 1873.
Evangelical Association. — This congregation was organized
1846, and the church edifice was erected the same year.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 99
Methodist Episcopal Church. — This church in 1866 was
made a part of Millersburg and Berrysburg Circuit, and in
1870 of the circuit composed of Berrysburg, Oakdale, and Cross-
Roads. The latter was abandoned in 1877, but the church prop-
erty at Oakdale is still owned.
The United Brethern have a large congregiation and neat
church in the western part of the township near the Paxtang
line.
100
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
ANDRP:W (Lycans) lykens
(From a Description)
The early pioneer of the
valley and from whom
Lykens Valley and Lykens
tovvH derive their names.
HISTORY OF LYKENS BOROUGH
The land where Lykens and part of Wiconisco now stands
was owned by James Way, of Chester County, who died in the
year 1825 before receiving a patent therefor from the State. His
executor, George Pearce, obtained a patent for the land Feb.
2, 1826. and had it surveyed by Isaac Ferree and his son Joel B.
Ferree. After the survey, the land was put up at public sale.
The sale was held at the old (Good) mill at Loyalton. The
condition of the sale was that at least twenty-five dollars payment
in hand, must be made immediately after the sale.
The tract of 180 acres on which the borough of Lykens now
stands was struck down to Jane and Rachel Ferree for the sum
of $65.97. The sale really was to their father, Isaac Ferree.
But for prudential reasons he ordered the deed for this tract,
made in the name of liis two daughters, Jane and Rachel. Isaac
Ferree, formerly owned a considerable amount of land in this
section, and operated a powder-mill the products of which he
sold all over the country. He brought the saltpetre from Phila-
delphia by teams. Joel B. Ferree and his sisters subsequently
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
101
laid out a town on this tract, and in honor of the early pioreer
of the valley, Andrew Lycans, called it Lykenstown, and the
two sisters sold the lots for eleven dollars each. They were all
numbered and drawn by lottery, and some hundred lots were
thus drawn and sold. Upon these lots log houses were built
by — William Zerby, Isaac Ferree, Martin Blum, Jacob Staley,
Corner of Main and Market Streets. Picture taken 20 years agD.
Kate Bordner, Benjamin Drum, John Shehan and Patrick
Martin, south of the railroad. The first log house however, was
built -by Joel B. Ferree, in the lower part of the borouoh, in
April, 1832. The stone work of which was done by Richard
Nolan. (Richard Nolan Diary) This was the extent of Lykens
in 1832.
In the year 1816 Simon Gratz recovered a .judgement for a
small amount against Isaac Ferree and kept it alive by suc-
cessive writs of scire facies. In 1835 said judgement was issued
upon, and the land sold as belonging to Isaac Ferree, the court
holding in legal contest, that his daughters only held the pro-
perty in trust for him. Therefore Simon Gratz, purchasing
at Sheriff's sale the interest of Isaac Ferree, it is presumed
received a good title. After the death of Simon Gratz. the hind
102
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
was conveyed to "William Hawkins, who the same day sold it to
Edward Gratz. He bought up a tax title to the same, held by
Jacob Haldeman and Thomas Elder, July 8, 1847, which gave
him an undisputed title. He then caused it to be immediately
K. of P. Hall, Lykens.
laid out in lots the second time, as they are now, by Daniel
Hoffman, in 1848. The first purchasers under Ferree sisters, all
lost their lots with the exception of those whose deeds had been
recorded at a certain date.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
103
Since its first settlement the town has rapidly increased in
wealth, influence and population. It is the center of the coal
trade in the Upper End.
ZICN LUTHERAN CHURCH, LYKENS
C. S. Jones, Pastor.
Lykens borough was incorporated in the year 1871, the Chief
Burgesses since that date have been.
Hon. Moses R. Young, 1871-3: L. K. Katzenburg, 1873-5:
Charles Wolcott, 1875-6 : John E. Nace, 1876-7 ; Charles Wolcott,
1878-80; W. S. Young, 1880, (resigned Aug. 2, 1880); Riley
Bressler, 1880-2 : S. H. Barrett, 1882-3 : F. J. Douden, 1887-91 :
W. S. Young, 1891-7: Jacob Trout, 1897-1900: H. F. Bueck,
1900-3 : Jacob Trout, 1903-6 : N. E. Snyder, 1906-9 ; Jacob Trout,
1909-14; J. W. Witmer, 1914-22 : George W. Troxel, 1922-4 years.
104
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Scene in North Second Street, Lykens.
Grace Methodist Church, Lykens
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
105
Aside from many Industrial plants and manufacturing;
concerns, the town also supports a weekly newspaper. This
paper is published by INIr. Charles ]M. Coles, son of the late
S. B. Coles, who has been a pioneer in that business in the Valley.
The first paper published in Lykens was the Farmer's and Min-
er's Journal, and the first issue appeared Aug. 16, 1856. This
"When the late train arrives" — Lykens
paper was supplanted by the Business i\Ien's Journal until the
year 1865, when the first issue of The Upper Dauphin Register
and Lykens Valley IMiner appeared. Jan. 1, 1872 the paper was
enlarged and the name changed to the Lykens Register. From
this name it became the Ijykens Record and so on until today
we have ''The Lykens Standard" published by C. M. Coles,
a son of S. B. Coles who has been identified with the paper since
1856.
The first house in Lykens was Ferree's house, now occupied
by the brick building of Charles Price and building of Jolm
Koppenhaver. The second, Zerbe's opposite Squire Ferree's.
Next the corner house, but lately demolished for the erection of
the brick house of William. A Wallace, now property of Charles
Price. Stehley's stood in the woods near the creek. Next
106
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
107
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108
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
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DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
109
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DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
111
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DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
113
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114 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Kissley's. Next an old log house, built by the Fegley's. Next
Patrick Martin 's. There was a two and a half story frame
house near the creek, back of the Valley house, on what is now
Water Street. This was built by Edward Myers for a man by
the name of Fisher, No store in Lykens at that time. Merchan-
dise of every sort chiefly brought from the store of Josiah
Bowman at the Forge.
The other store in all this part of the country was that of
Henry Shaeffer's, at the Lykens Valley Colliery. Some few
of the people worked in the mines, others employed themselves
in the manufacture of shingles, spokes, posts and stays, which
they traded for necessities of life. No church at that time ;
but a place of worship in an old school house near the Company's
stable. The Companj^ then mined coal Avithout preparation.
It M^as taken by horse railway to Millersburg, there flatted across
the Susquehanna to Mt. Patrick, on the opposite side, and
placed on the canal boats of the North Branch for shipment
to Harrisburg. There was no public house at that time. The
company would not tolerate any upon its own graunds, and
would not sell ground for hotel purposes.
Jacob Stehely, a gentleman of large means, who died at
Harrisburg, rather eccentric, yet very entertaining and full
of wit and humor — in his latter days fond of hunting and fish-
ing — ''batched" in the woods at that time, supported by his son
John, at Harrisburg. Mr. Stehely was about sixty years of age,
and quite intelligent, full of information and lively when in
company, which he tried to avoid, preferring the life of a hermit.
The mail was gotten at Thomas Harper's at the Forge.
Isaac Ferree was quite an old man then. Had sons running a
sawmill in "Greenland"— the only sawmill then about. The
mill in "Greenland" was erected in 1840, by the Ferree 's —
Joel, Jefferson, Washington, Uriah and Jacob. Shortly after-
wards the mill at Round top was erected by the same parties
and the one at Greenland abandoned. The elections were held
at the tavern of Michfel Sha^ffer. Deer were plenty — bear also —
fish in abundance — wild turkeys. The men employed in the
mines about twenty. The old Lykens Valley breaker was erected
in 1845-7. No breaker in 1^40. The mines were then a mere
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW II5
drift. In 1853 there were about fift}^ houses in Lykens, about
the same number in Wiconisco. The orders in 1853 were
the American Mechanics and Sons of Temperance. No Odd
Fellows at that time. They organized shortly after. The
orders mentioned met in John Hensel's building on Main
Street, second story, steps on the outside leading up. Preaching
in stone church, Lykens, the only church then, by Watson, it is
thought. The first railroad consisted of wa*ought-iron tacked
on wooden rails — called by the natives the ' ' Slabtrack ' ' road.'
Today the population of Lykens is 3000, The modern im-
provements have been. Electric lights. Water, Gas, Trolley ser-
vice, pavements, State Road, P. R. R, P. & R. R. R., Telephone,
Telegraph and all modern improvements and facilities making
for a real progTessive community. At the time of this writ-
ing, deliberation is being held incidental to the town purchasing
an $8000.00 Fire Fighting Apparatus. (Later) Apparatus pur-
chased.
LYKENS RESERVOIR TAKEN IN 1887
Reading left to right — Fred Schmidt, George Irving', Thomas L.
Davis, Job White, Dr. W. J. Smith, Mr. Prichard, Asley Cook, B. F.
Stoner. From left to right those sitting are — Dr. W. H. Uhler, Richard
Walters, G. B. Brubaker, David Gratz, Andrew Hoffman. John M.
Blum, Samuel B. Coles, and Dr. A. G. Stanley. (See illustration,
(Page 113).
116 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
HENSEL
Clothing House
LYKENS
1891 :-: 1922
Men's and Boys' Store
LARGEST AND OLDEST
FROM POTTSVILLE TO HARRISBURG
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 117
BEEF PORK
Bowman Cash Market
HARRY A. BOWMAN, Proprietor
Choice Meats and Fancy Groceries
Our Home-itiade
Bologna and Sausage a Specialty
558 Main Street Lykens, Pa.
LAMB Bell Phone VEAL
Established 1897
GEO. W. TROXELL
FIRST CLASS
• •
Shoe Repairing
S. PINE STREET, LYKENS
Electric Machines Prices Reasonable
Visitors Welcome
Abraham Lincoln's Advice —
Don't worry, eat three square meals a day. Keep your
digestion good. Be courteous to your creditors. Take
plenty of exercise and go slow and easy. And if old Abe
were living today he would say —
DO YOUR BUYING AT
LYKENS, PENNA.
118 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Travelers Headquarters Established 1854
Hotel Glen
Steam Heat
Electric Lights
A II Modern Conveniences
Refreshments at the Bar
C. J. WITMER, Proprietor
LYKENS, PENNA.
MINERS DEPOSIT BANK, Lykens, Penna.
Members — Federal Reserve System
Capital, $50,000.00
Surplus and Profits, 133,000.00
Deposits 734,000.00
R. J. N. BAKER, President F J. DOUDEN, Vice-President
SAMUEL S. FEAR, Cashier
*—
E. Leroy Keen
Attorney and Counselor at Law
222 Market Street J. N. Baker Building
Harrisburg, Pa. Lykens, Pa.
I
*-
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW HQ
Forman Brothers
Clothing, Shoes, Ladies' and
Gents' Fu rn is h ings, Carpets,
Rugs, Oilcloth, Linoleum,
Stoves and Furniture
Mayers— FORMAN— Harry
LYKENS— WICONISCO
PENNA.
FORD PARTS HYDRO TORON
OF TIRES
ALL KINDS
Kissinger's
T/re and Accessory House
LYKENS, PA.
IF YOU PAY LESS, YOU GET LESS
FIRST GASOLINE
CLASS AND
ACCESSORIES OIL
-*
I
•*
120 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Louis Wentzler
BREWING
BEVERAGES
am
MANUFACTURER OF
ARTIFICIAL ICE
Patronize Your Home Industry
I
f
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
121
*•
R. Coble John H. Eby J. M. Sheibley
Preside7it Vice-President Cashier
CAPITAL STOCK $50,000.00
First National Bank, Lykens, Penna.
Under direct supervision United States Government
We solicit your business large or small
"KRAMER"
THE BUILDER
We Build Anything Large or Small
Let us draw your plans and give you an Estimate
Our Prices Challenge
Competitors
JOS. F. KRAMER
BELL PHONE 23-K LYKENS, PA.
— *
GEORGE W. EBY
Wholesale Dealer in
CONFECTIONERY— TOBACCO— CIGARS AND
CIGARETTES
Cigar Specialties
El Rocco Peyton Randolph Paulo Honest Abe Bull Nose Blunt
xAIarket Street LYKENS, PA.
Lykens Furniture and Music Store
REIFF and HELT, Proprietors
VICTOR VICTROLAS— WEAVER PIANOS
FURNITURE
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Lykens ----- Pennsylvania
122
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Lykens Music Store
Geo. a. KosieRj Proprietor
,«»<M«|,,
Cu}i?iinffham Pianos
Sonora Talking Machines
Vocalion Talking Machines
Sheet Music
String Instruments and Accessories
Singer Sewing Machines and Parts
Hemstitching and Picot Edging
LYKENS, PA.
•*
G. C. KINSEY
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
Bell 'Phone 293
529 South Second Street Lykens, Pa.
All work done to conform with Underwriters Code
EVERYTHING ELECTRICAL
ESTIMATES FREE
Motor Troubles a Specialty
"THE AURORA"
BILLIARD PARLOR
Ice Cream
Cand
les
Cigars
Tobacco
Lunch
WM. L. WITMER, Proprietor
East Main Street
LYKENS, PA.
-*
-*
DIRECTORY AXD PICTORIAL REVIEW
123
Steam Heat
Baths
Electric Light
Best AccommodaHons for the
Traveling Public
Commercial Hotel
LYKENS, PENNA.
Chas. Spiekermann, Proprietor
Refreshments and Cigars at the Bar
124
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
4. —
LYKENS MERCANTILE CO.
WHOLESALE
Groceries, Flour and Feed
LYKENS, PENNJA.
W. H. Kissinger, President
Elmer Romberger, Vice-President
Jacob A. Bogar, Secretary
Chas. E. Hoffman, Treasurer and Manager
"LYKENS' STANDARD"
Established 1898
Chas. M. Coles, Editor and Publisher
PUBLISHED EVERY FRIDAY MORNING
AT LYKENS, PA.
BEST ADVERTISING MEDIUM IN UPPER DAU-
PHIN COUNTY— CIRCULATION THE LARGEST
Advertising rates upon application
If in need of Job Printing of any description, ask us for
quotation — we do Printing of every description
^^A«^rt^rf,^AS>4*^J^.v
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 125
Established 1857
Union House
Cor. Main and Market Streets
WILLIAM HECHLER
PROPRIETOR
LYKENS, PENNSYLVANIA
"The Jeweler}? Store of the Valle})"
"The Price of Honest Jewelry is Genuinely Com-
mensurate With Genuine Quality"
We Carry the Largest and Most Complete Stock of Fine
Jewelry in the Valley.
All Repair Work is done by an Accomplished Expert — Eyes
are Examined and Lenses Adjusted by a Registered Opto-
metrist.
SUGGESTIONS
Diamonds Watches
Rings Necklaces
Cut Glass and Silverware
A General Line of Jewelry
"Your Satisfaction is Our Success"
WALTER E. SMTDER
537 MAIN STREET LYKENS, PA.
126
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
CM
On
o
00
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
127
4. —
CHI
NAMEL
Nothing so beautifies the house
or makes it so "homey" as nice
turniture, and nothing gives you
such hne furniture as that fin-
ished with Chi-Namel.
Try it on that scratched buffet
or rough floor.
Buy it at
BLANNING'S
Hardvv'are St
ore
LYKENS AND WILLIAMSTOWN
t
■ +
DR. J. NEVIN BAKER
DENTIST
LYKENS :-: :-: :-: PENNSYLVANIA
128
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
BOTH LEADERS
NEW SEDAN
SPEED WAGON
24-Hour Service
REO
Sales and Service Station
515 Market Street
H. D. HELT, Proprietor LYKENS, PENNA.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW i29
— +
^- E- Smith E. G_ S^ijh
Smitn's
The Fashion Shop
Ladies Apparel Exclusively)
Alterations Free
Main Street Lykens, Pa.
130
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
L3)kens Motor Car Company
JAS. D. KELT, President
GEO. D. CAIRNS, Manager
CHEVROLET TOURING CARS
INTERNATIONAL TRUCKS
Complete line of Auto Accessories — Pneumatic Tires and
Solid Tires of Standard Makes Only
Let us overhaul y9ur car or make any necessary adjust-
ments — All work under personal supervision of the Manager
and fully guaranteed.
C L THOMAS
Billiard Parlor "Smoke House"
The largest and most complete line of cigars, pipes and
smokers sundries in the valley —
LUNCH ICE CREAM SODA WATER
Sole Agency for — Norris Exquisite Chocolates
THE HOUSE OF QUALITY AND SERVICE
LYKENS, PA.
Watch our windows for Real Bargains
•*
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
131
LEDRU BENDER
Whose Great Grandfather
founded
Elizabethville and after
whose
Great Grandmother
Mrs.
Elizabeth (John) Bender
the town is naiiicd.
HISTORY OF ELIZABETHVILLE
Elizabethville is a prosperous borough, situated on the
Pennsylvania Rail Road, about nine miles from Millersburfr.
The western portion of the town was laid out by John Bender
in the year 1817. Mr. Bender being at that time the owner of
large tracts of land in this vicinity. It was for a long time
called "Benderstoettle," but finally the name of l']lizabethville
was given it in honor of the founder's wife, (Mrs, Elizabeth
Bender).' Before this part of the town was laid out, a Richard
Peter had built a house on the lot, which is now known as the
Rickert property in the western portion of the town. After the
laying out of the place, the first house was built by John
Bender, and stood on the Old Road, but was later removed to
the new road, and is now the old Messersmith |)ro|)cr1\ . It was
a log structure, Imt later weather boarded and remodeled.
The first blacksmith in the town was Martin I'aiil. Jillliough
132
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
John Smith had a blacksmith shop a short distance from the
village while his father Adam Smith, at an earlier period had
^■' "
i
Elizabethville School House.
Hotel Snyder, Elizabethville
a. slioi) rarthcr removed from the village. Adam Smith, moved
1<) town (hiring the year 1819. The first store was opened by
Benjamin Buffington in 1842, at which time there were not
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
133
The Old Stone Church, Elizabethville. In this cemelary back of the church is buried
many of the old pioneers of the Valley, annong them John Bender,
founder of Elizabethville
Market Street, Elizabethville
134
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
.^ies^K^
^'^.
Ul
s
3
q:
IS
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIE
W
135
over a dozen log houses in the town. John Bender, the IouikI.t
of Elizabethville, kept the first hotel, which, being on the ohi
ITarrisbnrg road, was quite a resort for travelers i.ii.I team-
Industry map of Elizabethville 1910
stars. The first wagon-maker was Benjamin R. Buffington. The
first Physician was Dr. John B. Stroup, who located and iirac-
tieed medicine in Elizabethville in the year 1852.
336
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
w
o
O
3
ts
Q
Q
R!
C
CO
H
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
]3-
The Old Red Tavern, now the Hotel Snyder
Old Polm Building, Elizabethville. where the Lykens Valley Bank now stands
138 LYKBNS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
The Eastern section of the present borough was founded by
Ephraim E. Bender, a brother of John Bender, and up until
the year 1832 there was only one house in this section. This
part of the town was then called Cross-Roads, later it was called
Washington Square, by which latter title it is generally known.
The business centre of the present town is located on the original
Cross-Roads, Washington Squire site of the historical develop-
ment. The town today is a flourishing community with modern
and up-to-date public service facilities, well stocked stores,
Telegra})li office and a number of successful manufacturing
establishments. Among the latter is the Swab Wagon Company
and the Buflington IManufacturing Company, Both these con-
cerns employ scores of citizens.
Elizabethville was incorporated as a borough in the year
1893
The Lutheran and Reformed churches were erected in
1833.
The United Brethern Church was erected by the Metho-
dists in the year 1871, who in 1877 conveyed the same to the
former denomination.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 139
The First National Bank
of elizabethville. pa.
Charter No. 5563
Organized 1900
CAPITAL, $25,000.00
surplus and profits, 68,876.00
rp:sources, 553,000.00
Officers
L T. BuFFlNGTON, President
A. M. ROMBERGER, Vice-Presicleiit
H. H. Hassinger, Cashier
L. C. BuFFlNGTON^ Assistant Cashier
Directors
L T. Buffington A. M. Romberger C. F. Eby
L. W. Bolton C. T. Romberger S. H. Kniscl\
H. H. Hassinger
Member of The Ameican Bankers Association diul of tlu
Pennsylvania Bankers Association
Elizabethville Planing Mill
I. T. Buffington, Proprietor
Manufacturer of
LUMBER
SasK, Doors, Blinds,
LatK, Shingles, Etc.
ELIZABETHVILLE, PENNSYLVANIA.
Siding Flooring, Shutters, Moulding, Store Room Fi.^urcs
Chamber Suits, Parlor Suits, Couches, Tables and Chairs
Both Phones
— +
140
i. —
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
CAPITAL STOCK $50,000
The Silver Black Fox Co., Inc.
Exclusive Agents for Duffus Diamond Quality
H. L. ROMBERGER, Manager
ELIZABETHVILLE, PENNSYLVANIA.
--#*«»^
S#S*;fSirf>*'
James E. Lentz, President
C. T. Romberger, Vice-President
A. E. Romberger, Sec. and Treas.
J. P. Duffus, Neiu York
M. S. Lewis, Reading
DIRECTORS
D. W. Romberger, Elizabethville
H. L. Romberger, Elizabeth<ville
Associated with Ranches at Prince Edward Island, Ontario,
New York State and Reading, Pa.
TO YOU who know the value of highest quality silver black foxes.
TO YOU who want to own one or more pair but cannot because
of the high original cost.
TO YOU who could use $1000, to $5000, additional annual income.
TO YOU who would like to start in the Fox business and get from
$100, to $700, for everv pelt you raise. (We WILL
BUY ALL YOU RAISE AxND PAY $500 EACH).
Write or call at the ranch for free information how to
get started.
Our Memorandum Service on skins is for your benefit and is
utilized by the largest and most exclusive houses everywhere. Han-
dled by the, Duffus Silver Fox Store, 21 West 30th Street, New
York City, N. Y. Mr. Duffus is an active member of our company.
A copy of our Comments on the Silver Black Fox Industry is
yours for the asking.
Visitors always welcome. Ranch however closed between January
and June.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
141
THE WEAVER APPAREL CO.
Manufacturers of
Men's Dress and Work Shirts
A SHIRT THAT FITS
For sale by all first-class Haberdashers and Department Stores
RLIZABRTHVILLR, PA.
The Oldest Fire Insurance Company) in Central Pennsylvania
Incorporated 1854
OFFICERS:
Amos Lebo,
President
H. M. Miller.
Sec. and Treas.
Miles V. Miller,
Ass 't Sec 'y
DIRECTORS:
Amos Lebo,
D. D. Helt.
J. A. Henninger,
H. M. M.ller.
L. W. Bolton.
E. T. Jamisoti,
Lee A. Zeiglcr.
Home Office Building
Lykens Valley Mutual Fire Insurance Co.
Elizabethville^ Pa.
Reliable Insurance at Reasonable Cost
142 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
THE
"ELIZABETHVILLE ECHO"
Issued EVERY THURSDAY MORNING
— *
SUBSCRIPTION
$1.50 A YEAR IN ADVANCE
M. A. MILLER
Editor and Proprietor
GEORGE BUFFINGTON
Funeral Director and Embalmer
ELIZABETHVILLE, PA.
All Calls Given Prompt and Careful Jtte?ition
Electrical Supplies Lighting Fixtures
and Appliances Electric Motors
Wiring and Repairing at a very reasonable cost
Estimates Cheerfully Given
A complete line of wiring material and specialties carried
in stock at all times.
H. S. MATTER, Electrical Contractor
Bell Telephone Elizabethville, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 343
Washington House
Chas. Keaffer, Proprietor
ELIZABETHVILLE, PA.
Electric Light Garage Steam Heat
— +
Elizabethville Motor Car Co.
JAMES E. LENTZ, Manager
BUICK — DODGE
lieliable Cars and Service OUR MOTTO
"Tlie Corner Store" of Eli2at)etK\)ille, Penna.
Offers You Excellent Shopping Facilities
Its splendid location, modern equipment and larfje assort-
ment of seasonable merchandise make it a fascinating place
for shopping.
Prompt Service Merchandise of Quality
Courteous Treatment Fair Prices
Your patronage not only solicited but appreciated as well
With best wishes,
A. M. ROMBERGER
Established 1900 H<'ll 'lVK-pb"tn-
144
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
ESTABLISHED 1868
SWAB WAGON CO., Inc.
Manufacturers of Farm and Spring Wagons, Buggies, carriages and
Commercial Truck Bodies.
Dealers in Pleasure and Commercial Cars — Auto Accessories
Elizabethville, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
145
DANIEL WILLIAMS
A
sketcli from discription
of tlie
founder of and nainesake
of
AVillianis Valley
and
Williamstown.
HISTORY OF WILLIAMSTOAVX AND
WILLIAMS TOWNSHIP
On the 7tli of February, 1869, the township of Williams
was formed from the township of W^ieonisco, the court direct-
ing the boundary lines as follows:
"Beginning at a black-oak on the Schuylkill County line
east 461/2 degrees south 1380 perches; thence south 81 degrees
west 1400 perches along the highlands of Berry's ^lountain ;
thence due north 490 perches; thence north 60 degrees east 415
perches to the place of beginning."
As thus formed the township is bounded on the Noi-th by
Lykens tow^nship, on the East by the Schuylkill County line, on
the south by Jackson township and on the west by AViconisco
township. Although one of the smallest townshij).s in Dauphin
County, it is by no means the least important. It is Ihe center
of the Ly kens-Williams Valley coal basin. Its early history
and developement of its coal interests are pari of the liitsory
of the valley. The business of the to^^^lship cenlres in tli<- min-
ing operations.
146
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
This great Coal Mart has come into existence as a town
since the commencement of the Coal trade. It is located on
the Williams Valley Eailroad Branch of the Philadelphia and
Reading Railroad. The Summit Branch of the P. R. R. also
enters the town. Here is located what was in the year 1873
the most famous and largest Coal mine or Colliery in America.
The coal Company began operations in the Spring of 1866.
East Market Street, Williamstown, Pa.
The town was laid out by the Coal Company, by Martin Blum
and Mr. Lewis Heilner, and by Henry Workman, which three
parties and Company owned all the land upon which the town
now stands. What is the town proper was Once offered in ex-
change for five thousand shingles, and subsequently sold for
a span of horses, not worth over three hundred dollars, by a
Mr. Updegrove. The first store in the place was kept by Jacob
Hartman, and the next three were opened and owned by George
Haines, Daniel Batdorf and Joseph W. Durbin. The oldest
house in or near the town is the old John Hartman property,
built before the coal trade opened. Jacob Hartman kept the
first tavern and George Haines the second, both in connection
with their little stores. Joseph W. Durbin was the first regular
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
147
The late Cap't Richard Budd.
Market Street from Central Hotel, Williamstown
148
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
]49
raerehant on a large scale, and located here in May, 186(1. The
town was laid out in 1869, and in 1883 was the largest mining
Methodist Church, Williamslown
town In'thTUpper End. The Evangelical Assoc-iation nvtiMl
the first chnrch, which was bnilt in 1860 and 1870, and on the
29th day of December 1870 the congregation was incorporated.
150 LYKENS-WIL.LIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
The Methodist Episcopal church was erected in 1871, The
Emanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church was erected in 1874.
The Primitive Methodist Church was erected in 1876 on Broad
street. The United Brethren in Christ editice was erected a
few years later then 1876. The Roman Catholic Church was
erected in 1875, under the auspices of Rev. Mark 'Neill.
Since the time of its incorporation the Chief Burgesses have
been —
J. W. Durbin
Amos Lebo
Lazarius Zerby
D. F. Lebo
Clark HofE
L. C. Carl
Edward McNut
Frank M. Shadle.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 151
! . . . !
Unrivaled Hosiery Mill
WILLIAMSTOWN, PA.
TKe Most Complete Manufacturing
Plant in tKe Valle})
S. D. BAUSHER, President
J. B. LESHER, Treasurer and Manager
Established 1908
Bestok Underv?ear Co.
Office. Williamstown Mill, Tower City
MAKERS OjF
DEPENDABLE
MERCHANDISE
S. D. BAUSHER, "President
J. B. LESHER, Treasurer and Manager
Established 1913
152
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Variet}? Incorporated
Dealers in Post Cards, Wall Paper, Window Shades, Sta-
tionery, Kodaks, Toys, Sporting Goods and a thousand
other things.
// we haven't what you roant
we will get it for you
STORE CORNER MARKET AND EAST STREETS
WILLIAMSTOWN, PA.
ESTABLISHED 1889
WM. O. ROWE
Meat Market
Home Dressed and Manufactured Goods
FRESH AND SMOKED MEATS
Delivery Wagon None Better Bell Phone
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
153
— ♦
Ford
Cars
Trucks
and Fordson Tractors
Ford Service, With genuine Ford parts, the Ford way
Complete Line of Accessories
PHILADELPftlA ^^^ ^"^^' battery with
''^^^i©Q^[M]®g5[2) ^ quarter sawed wood
p^^dl^DE) separator. All makes
'ffiHTlilJf repaired & rechar^^cd.
J. N. Snyder
Authorized Ford Sales & Service
Williamstown, Pa.
]54 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Bell Phone Established 1911
Th
Academy
0/ Music
A FAMILY THEATRE
The Home of
Motion Picture Vaudeville
Musical Comedy
Drama or Repertoire
"NEVER DARK HOUSE"
Complete Scenery
Modern Improvements
Good Music
C. DONLEY, H. C. KURTZ,
Proprietor Manager
Williamstown, Penna.
Trolley Stops at the Door. Excellent Parking Facilites
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 155
Established 19 10
WM. D. MORGAN
CONTRACTOR
Stone, Brick and Concrete Work
Cement, Sand, Lime, Brick
Flagstone and Iron Fences
Our Guarantee of Quality and our Service Go with
Everything We Sell
BELL TELEPHONE
WILLIAMSTOWN, PA.
Magazine SuDScription Ageno?
Service and Reliability
LOWEST PRICES
PROMPT AND EFFICIENT SERVICE
LANE F. RUBENDALL
Market Street Bell Phonk
WILLIAMSTOWN, PA.
156
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
The
Williamstown Times
Tht Linofype Way
Bell Telephone Issued every Friday
R. J. SELFRIDGE, Publisher
A II Kinds of
JOB PRINTING
Williamstown, Pa. .
I
J. B. Lesher, Pres. A. L. Pritchard, Vice-Pres.
]. B. Whitworth, Secty. W. M. Groff, Cashie?-
Miners and Merchants Bank
WILLIAMSTOWN, PENNSYLVANIA
PAYS YOU
ON TOUR SAVINGS
Solicites Your Account, No- Matter How Small
Bank opened for Business August 17th, 1920
Total resourses March 15th, 1922, $348,000.00
We Invite You To Make This Bank Your Bank
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 157
Chiropractic Is the Science of
Palpating Nerve Tracing and
Adjusting Vertebrae for the
Relief of Diseased Conditions
EVERY living tissue and cell in the body must at
all times receive 100% of life force or nerve
energy, to express 100% of life and function. Any
tissue or cell receiving less than 100% of life force
or nerve energy is comparatively thrown in a weak-
ened condition or disease. This life force or nerve
energy is conveyed to all tissues and cells by means
of the nervous system. Any pressure on a nerve
will diminish this flow of life force or nerve energy
to the extent of the pressure on the nerve. These
pressures occur at the exit of the nerve from the
spinal column. This is invariably the cause of
disease. The Chiropractor quickly corrects this
cause and lets the life force or nerve energy flow
to all tissues and cells Avhich will cjuickly bring
about a permanent cure. Call on >oiir Cliiro-
practor for your ills and enjoy lOO*/^ of Health.
John W. Shipe, D. C.
CHIROPRACTOR
403 E. Market Street Williamstown. Pa
158
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Lykens Valley Li^ht
and Power Company
. WILLIAMSTOWN.
Our aim is to serve all of the people, who wish to
be served, all of the time.
As you grow and prosper, we grow and prosper —
only we must do our growing first in order to be
ready to serve you when and as you wish. The
electrical growth of any community is much greater
than the growth of population. Ten years ago all
of your electrical wants were supplied by a plant
of less than 300 KW capacity, while this same
community is now being served by a modern steam
turbine plant of 3,000 KW capacity. This great
growth was made possible only by our faith in
your ultimate conversion to the use of electicity to
do many of the things you used to do by other
means.
Nearly all of our factories are to-day run by elec-
tricity. Seventy-five per cent of our women iron
by electricity. Many wash by the same means.
Some use it entirely for cooking. A great many
sweep with it. Hundreds curl their hair with it.
In fact, to the average family, the monthly bill for
electricity represents not only the cost of light but
also includes the cost of doing, easily, many of the
household chores.
4. —
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
159
' ■ ' ■ — »
AARON RALPH j q RALPH
Aaron RalpK & Son
Everything in
HOUSE FURNISHINGS
UNDERTAKER AND FUNERAL DIRECTOR
Modern Equipment
518 West Market Street
WILLIAMSTOWN, PA.
Bell Phone 913 Established 1888
160 LYKENS-WILLIAAIS VALLEY HISTORY
HISTORY OF PORTER TOWNSHIP
AND WILLIAMS VALLEY
Porter township, one of the richest townships in Schuyl-
kill county, was named after Governor David Porter, an early
governor of Pennsylvania. It was taken from lower Malian-
tongo township about lb40, and even from its birth bid well
to become not only one of the most distinguished townships in
Schuylkill county, but also one of which Pennsylvania may be
proud.
Peter's mountain divides the township into two valleys,
Williams and one known as Clarks starting just opposite the
Seely log house which was situated on a bank of Wiconisco
Creek, directly opposite of what is now the Tower City House.
Peter 's mountain in early times was a great deer hunting ground.
Sportsmen came long distances annually to hunt there, and it
is predicted that in time to come it will again assume its former
position of being one of the most popular sporting districts in
Pennsylvania, since game is being placed there annually by the
state.
Porter township embraces all of Williams Valley, one of
the most picturesque valleys in Pennsylvania. It derived
its name from Daniel Williams and his son Enmier who took
up two tracts of land in their own names as early as 1774. They
also took up tracts in the names of other men, thus actually
assuming possession of nearly the whole valley.
Daniel Williams, the real owner of the valley and father
of Emnier, was noted for his stature, being six feet four inches
in height with broad shoulders and a deep chest and having
remarkably long arms and large hands. He is also said to have
been mentally an extraordinay man.
Enmier Williams, the son, is reported to have lived in the
valley during the Revolutionary war. His mother was the
daughter of Kushwa, the chief of a large tribe of Delaware
Indians.
A large portion of the land not taken up by the Williamses
was taken up hj James Wilson, a signer of the Declaration of
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW iQi
Independence and a judge of the Supreme Court of the United
States, but he sold out about 1796 to John Lewis Barde, who
in turn was sold out by a sheriff to William Jilunson. Charle-
magne Tower was the la^^Ter of Munson, and shortly after the
latter 's death the land became the property of the former.
Today a large portion of it is owned and operated by the Phila-
delphia and Reading Coal and Iron Company.
South and a little west of the old Seely log liouse tlicre
was erected a saw mill about 1837, now totally destroyed. Di-
rectly west there was erected a large stone grist-mill known as
"Thompson's Mill," Alexander Thompson being the owner
of nearly all the land on which our present Sheridan is built.
From that time on many more saw-mills were erected and the
more ambitious settlers proceeded to clear the land. This great
work was begun by George Borcott, an Indian who commenced
the work of clearing on the land now owned by George Schwalm,
At the death of Bo-rcott, the work was taken up by later set-
tlers. Some of the earlier saw-mills were located on land
now occupied by the following: John Heim, Geo. Schwalm,
George Reiner, Theodore Updegrave, Charles Schaeffer and
Henry Bohr. The timber was converted into lumber and that
Avhich was not used for building purposes was taken to Tremout
and exchanged for store goods and finally sent to Philadelphia.
A powder mill was constructed on the farm wliich was owned
and occupied by the late Walter Brown. A tannery was erected
on land now occupied by Wm. Reedy and also one on land now
occupied by John Reinhardt.
About 1842, on the site of the residence of Henry Row,
where John IMiller now resides in Reinerton there was erected
a house and barn of considerable dimensions and the first post
office and store were located there. It was known as Bcarniont
post office and store until 1869, when it was abandoned as sudi
and Joliett on top of the mountain. Jolmstown ami Tower
City post offices took its place. Up to this time the inhal)itants
of the township had to go to Pinegrove and later to Tremont for
the eatables which they could not produce at home. Much of the
traveling was done on foot.
162 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
After the formation of the township the following named
persons were leading- characters: —
George Reiner, who lived in what is known as the Half-way
House at Muir now occupied by John Eisenacher.
Jacob ]\Iiller, who occupied the home east of Muir, now
owned by N. C. Nelson.
Peter Miller, who lived in one of the first houses west of
what is now Good Spring.
John Hand who resided in the house south of Orwin which
one of his descendants Joseph Hand now occupies.
Paul Kessler, a distinguished person from Clarks Valley,
now living at Orwin.
Valentine Achternacht, wdio resided in the house west of
Sheridan, now occupied by Jehn Sneesavage and known as the
"stone hotel."
Levi Fehler, who occupied the home in Reinerton, where
John Miller now resides, and
Alexander Thompson, the original proprietor of all the
land on which our present Sheridan is located.
Shortly after the Seely came into the valley there was a
man living on Stony mountain called the "pirate." He was
a man of great stature with a heavy beard and apparently his
nickname befitted him. He claimed to have been sent by Thomas
O'Brien of Reading to take possession in the name of Chamber-
lain, O'Brien and Co., and built a log cahin on the side of the
mountain, afterwards occupied by the Sponsler family, but
which is now totally destroyed. This was the second house at
the foot of Stony mountain, the first one being occupied by Mr.
Philip Miller. This log cabin was given by George Hawk to
George Wagner, about the year 1862, for entering the service
of the north in the Civil war, as substitute for the former, wiio
had been drafted into the service. Mr. Wagner returned, but
was so severely wounded that he died in a few years. This is
one of the. many examples which shows the brotherly love of
the early settlers.
The first house in the township was built by Daniel Green
of Reading on the top of Broad mountain. He converted it
into a tavera, but becoming disgusted with his own venture sold
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
163
out to a man named Bartsche, who in turn sold out to Joseph
Keffer. From that time on it was called the Keffer Tavern
Stand, and from it our present Keffers derived its name. It
became a rendezvous for drafted men during the war of 1812,
the saw-mill hack of the tavern being their main retreat.
Up to this time there were only two school houses in tlio
township, one above Orwin and the other near our present
Greenwood cemetery, but each one had its own difficulties to
contend with and for a time education in the township pro-
gressed very slowly. Now there are eight school houses in the
township, each furnished with a veiy efficient faculty and hav-
ing the right to apply to the school board of directors when there
is a deficiency in supplies or anything else. Tlie land on which
the first public school house was erected was given by John
Hand, the father of AVilliams Valley, as he was called, who was
noted for his sterling integrity and his belief in free public edu-
cation. On this land, which is now part of Tower City a
log building was erected, intended for a Lutheran church,
but also used as a school house for a short time. This was
also the first church in the township. It was destroyed b\-
boys about 1878.
At this time there were only five houses in Orwin. five in
Tower City and scarcely more than fifty scattered thruout
the township. There were seventy-four voters in the township
and only one election poll, which was located at the Half-way
House, Muir now occupied by John Eisenacher. Tiicre were
three hotels in the township and only one store. The first house
built by Charlemagne Tower was named the Tower City House,
It is now occupied by Morris Updegrave.
Up to 1870 there was no doctor living in the township.
Some of the first practitioners were Drs. E. F. Pliilips, S. De-
Veny, and K. B. Wilson. One of the first practicing attorneys
was J. Wallace McCool.
The oldest burying ground is at Orwin. It was donate I
by Peter Miller. The earliest settlers who died before a regulai-
burying ground was established are buried at various places on
the farms. Mrs. George IMiller, said to be the first white person
164 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
buried in the valley, lies on the Lebo farm now owned by George
Schwalm, about one rod north of the public road and six rods
from the line fence between the two farms.
Coal mining and agriculture are the principal industries.
The so-called coal fever broke out in the anthracite regions be-
tween the years 1820 and 1830. Several well known citizens of
Pennsylvania embarked in the enterprise, but learned that "all
that glitters is not gold. ' '
Ebeneezer Seely and his son John T. of New York, built
the old Seely log house between Williams and Clarks Valleys
and started what is now known as the "Red Shale Tunnel."
Tliej^ were unable to carry out their project owing to the lack
of funds, so they also failed to open up the coal industry. Fin-
ally parties from Harrisburg obtained a charter in the name
of the Williams Valley Railroad and Mining Co., and they were
the first to successfully carry on the coal industry.
The opening of the coal mines was the principal reason
why Porter township was so rapidly settled. A certain early
settler, Wendall Houtz by name, visited this section on horse-
l>ack and upon view determined to settle. He erected the house
east of Muir, which was known as the hotel at the forks. It
was destroyed by fire some years ago, but was rebuilt and is now
occupied by John Batdorf, Mr. Houtz made his home there
not because the land was more fertile than at any other
place, but because there was a constant stream of water flowing
by.
John Hand, the father of Williams Valley, also built his
home about one-half mile south of Orwin for the same reason.
For similar reasons the first houses were so widely separated.
These houses were now connected by roads, in the construction
of which they followed the Indian trails, which furnishes suffi-
cient reason for the roads not being straight since Indians al-
ways travelled in crooked paths.
To-day the houses are not so widely separated, the many
more roads are being kept in repair, education is improving,
the coal industry is progressing and Porter township has become
one of the most prominent townships in Schuylkill county and
also in Pennsvlvania.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
165
^ ««l
■%^f>^.
#"
^
^^ A^^
^
BiflBli
--■%JI
^H
1
^^>-;£t'/'^A/^''r ''^li^ ''
^^M ^^''y>Z^Z'^J^>'C^-^
CHARLEMAXGE TOWER
Founder and Builder
of
Tower City.
HISTORY OF TOWER CITY
There are many people in this valley who have even at-
tained middle or old age who knows very little of the early history
of Tower City. This may not be true of every individual l»ut il
can safely be assumed to be true of many.
The foundation of the town came from the disclosure of
the coal mines wliich were developed by Benjamin Kaufman,
Wieonisco, who w^as in the mercantile business, Colonel E. G.
Savage, who was in the foundry business at Lykens and James
Savage who was a practical miner.
The famous Brookside mines were developed in l^iiT. A
railroad was constructed from Tremont to Brookside to con-
vey this coal to market.
After various financial diUficulties 1h.' owners discovcrnl
one of the finest deposits of anthracite coal in llie world.
166
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Scene on Grand Avenue, taken many years ago.
Scene on Grand Avenue
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
167
Elias Kaufman, formerly of Llewellyn, built the first
breaker at this opening, and served afterwards as outside super-
intendent until 1885,
The former owner sold this colliery to the Repelier, Gordon
& Co., who operated it for a few years. They in turn sold it
to the Philadelphia and Reading Coal and Iron Company who
own it to this day.
Tower City Hotel built by Charlemange Tower, founder cf the town.
They made extensive improvements which necessitated them
to make a division comprising the Brookside district, which is
now in charge of Joseph ]\Iaguire.
After the opening of the coal mines it became necessary
to establish a town to house the employees.
About seventy-five years ago a geological survey wa.s made
thru this section of the state. A yoimg man by the name of
Samuel Kaufman, Minersville was a member of the engineer
corps of the party. They sank a test hole at Keffers and found
evidences of a very fine deposit of anthracite eoal.
108
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Scene on Grand Avenue
Scene on Grand Avenue
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
169
Scene on Grand Avenue
Vievy 90 Grand Avenue
170
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Mr. Kaufman while in this vicinity had occasion to go
to Pottsville. While there he met a young acquaintance of his,
Scene on Grand Avenue
Scene on Grand Avenue
Charlemagne Tower. He told his friend that if he possessed any
money, or ever got any, he should buy all the lands he could
purchase in the Williams Valley, as the mountains in that sec-
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
171
tion, without a doubt, contained one of the finest deposits of
anthracite coal to be found anywhere. Mr. Tower, not havin-
any funds at the time, did not pay any attention to the mZ
gestion.
During the Civil war, this young lawyer, thru his natural
shrewdness, succeeded in accumulating a fair sum of money.
Naturally looking for a place to invest his money, liis thoughts
drifted back to the suggestion of young Kaufman.
Public School Building, Tower City
During his investigation of local conditions lie found the
valley sparsely populated. Those people who diil reside there
had purchased land for farming purposes and were eompeUed
to purchase a certain amount of mountain land whieli had prac-
tically no value to them.
. Mr. Tower succeeded in getting a man by the name of
William Yohe, who then resided near Valh-y View to act a.s his
agent. Mr. Yohe had the confidence of the local i)oople and so
they approved of anything he said or did.
172
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Thru Mr. Tower's financial shrewdness and Mr. Yohe's
influence, so the story goes, he purchased the Brookside moun-
tain land in which the valuable coal deposit was located as low
as $4. per acre.
It was largely thru Mr. Tower's influence that the rail-
road was built and the mines developed. After purchasing the
land he decided to build a town and name it Tower City.
Scene on Grand Avenue
In order to control the territory on which the town was to
be located he purchased the John Dietrich farm on which Orwin,
then called Johnstown was located. He also purchased all the
land from Bearmont to the Sulphur Creek, the dividing line
between Sheridan and the borough, with the exception of the
Henry Rowe farm at Reinertown, now owned by Albert Ste-
phens.
The idea was to have the main part of the town w^here
Reinertown is now located. The cellar was dug and all arrange-
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 173
Tower City Rsservoir
Scene on Grand Avenue
174
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
ments made for a large building or hotel to be erected on the
vacant lot owned by John Mease and be known as the Tower
City House.
A misunderstanding arose between Mr. Tower's repre-
sentative and Mr. Row. In view of this misunderstanding ]\Ir.
Row refused to sell his farm to Mr. Tower.
Scene of the wreck on the Williams Valley Railroad abcve Tower City, two lives lost.
In order not to give ^Ir. Row the benefit of his improve-
ments, Mr. Tower ordered the abandoning of the building at the
above mentioned place and decided to locate the Tower City
House a mile west of that point, where the building is now
located and which placed the town in that section of the val-
ley. This place was then a swamp and perhaps one of the
most undesirable places in the valley for such an undertaking.
One of the old land marks of Tower City is the Seeley Tun-
nel north of the United Brethern Church.
Before the opening of the coal mines some enterprising
parties conceived the idea of building a railroad from Dauphin
to Ashland, Pa. The railroad was to extend from Dauphin,
thru Clark's Valley, and thru the Brookside mountain, by w^ay of
the Seeley Tunnel, to Ashland.
>
U
to
m
L76
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Scene of wreck on Williams Valley Railroad
Scene of wreck on Williams Valley Railroad
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 177
The tunnel was driven for quite a distance when the funds
became exhausted and the undertaking was abandoned.
There was from twelve to fifteen miles of road bed graded
at the west end of Clarks Valley. Experienced miners say that
if this tunnel had been driven thru the mountain they would
have discovered all the coal measures which have since been
found in this district. The expenses of preparing the coal
would have been less than at present because they would then be
on a water level which would avoid the expense of pumping.
The eastern approach to the town which followed a crooked
Indian trail along the south side of the valley was not satis-
factory, so Mr. Tower decided to build a public road from Kef-
fers to Tower City. He built what is now known as the state
road at his own expense. The cost is said to have been over
$100,000.
Mr. Tower wished Porter township to take over the road
and pay for the upkeep of same. A number of the larger tax
payers objected to this obligation on their part.
Mr. Tower's experience as a lawyer, and his financial stand-
ing gave him an advantage over the local people. He succeeded
in having a bill passed by the Legislature at Harrisburg which
compelled Porter township to take over the road and compensiite
him for all money expended.
Until 1893 Tower City was a part of Porter township.
At which time a majority of the people decided to be incorpor-
ated into a borough. Since then the town has steadily been im-
proving until to-day Tower City is one of the most progressive
towns in the valley as well as in the county.
178
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Capital $50,000.00
Surplus $75,000.00
TKe Tower City ISJ ational Bank
TOWER CITY, PA.
ORGANIZED FEBRUARY 1902
SAFE DEPOSIT BOXES FOR RENT
Accounts of individuals and firms solicited
Interest paid on time deposits and Chi-istmas Saving
Club Accounts
Every accommodation consistent with good banking extended
OFFICERS
C. M. Kaufman^ President
W. F. Knecht, Vice-President
A.
I. A. Evans
R. W. Daub
A. A. Unger
H. A. Evans
D. Lewis, Cashier
DIRECTORS
J. B. Watkins
W. J. Powell
Jno. Pfeiffer
G. W. Dreibelbis
W. N. Snvder
W. F. Knecht
B. W. Fees
C. M. Kaufman
Fred J. Doudcn
Isaac Mossop
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
179
4. —
Do You Get Your HOME PAPER ?
West SckuylkiU Herald
Published Every Friday at
TOWER CITY, PA.
By the Year, ^1,50
Single Copies, .i)i
W. F. KNECHT
EDITOR AKD PROPRIETOR
— +
FURNITURE
Victrolas and Records
Pianos ana Music
H. S. SNYDER & CO.
Bell Phone 7-14 207 E. Grand A\uiuc
TOWER CITY, PA.
ni\e Midwa}? General Store
"Quality and Service" our Motto
We carry a full and complete line of Groceries. Dry Goods.
Notions and Miner's Supplies.
WILLIAM D. KEEN, Profriktor
Dayton, Pa.
» ■ ' ■ ■
180
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY H1ST0R"X
"GAME AND FISH
Past and Present in
THE Lykens-Willl\ms
Valley. ' '
By
V. W. Barrett,
Lykens, Fa.
My personal knowledge of
the Game and Fish con-
ditions in The Lykens-Will-
iams Valley dates back to
1875. At wliich time I be-
gan to successfully hunt and fish. Wiconisco Creek teemed
with fish; suckers, eels, cat-fish and pike were in abundance,
while at the mouth of the several clear water tributaries
many fine trout were caught and occasionally in the main
stream. Many fishermen went up the Bear creek where ex-
cellent chub-fishing could be had. But for a number of years
past the sulphur water and culm from the coal mines on the
north side has about rid this stream of fish life. Rattling Creek
which empties into the "Wiconisco just below Lykens Boro
is a clear, clean mountain-brook and in it you could always
find trout, suckers and eels. Both east and west branches of
this stream have plenty of trout in them, but never seem to
grow more than 8 to 10 inches long, (has been stocked a num-
ber of times). But from Lykens reservoir to the mouth of the
stream many "good ones" have been caught. I personally
know of a brown trout 19 inches long caught in the above water
during the summer of 1918. The mountains which bound this
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
181
valley on the north and south from Tower City to the Susfiue-
hanna were well stocked with game. Ruffed Grouse, Rabbits
and numerous flocks of Wild Turkeys. "Short Mt." on the
^
E
a
CO
north was still well timbered and grey squirrels wore pleiit.lul
w^hile on "BeiTy's Mt." on the south quite a few deer could
still be found. In those days I hunted .it h the best of deer
hunters, men who were expert rifle men and who coiUd and
]82
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
183
rlid kill many deer. Among whom were William (Bill), John
and Jacob Wingert— Philip, David and Daniel Hawk-Frank
Byerly— Nathaniel Woland— Wm. Mumma— John Hoffman—
Emanuel Deitrich Jonas and Levi Buffington. But owing to
the cutting of the timber, mountain fires, and the running at
large of many dogs, deer became from year to year more scarce
till in fact from 1890 to 1900 there were few deer killed, and
from 1900 up to 1919 when the "Game Com." of Pa., lib(M-ated
49 deer at one time and several more later on at the "Game
Preserve or Refuge," it was a rare occurrence to see a deer or
even a deer track north of "Stoney Mt." But now, thanks to
the stringent Game Law, and the untiring efforts of our Game
Commissioners, we can again find our forests populated with
deer. On either mountain north or south the length of the valley
their signs and foot prints can be found, during the summer
months they are seen by day and night, crossing the roads
and often in the fields with the farmers cattle. During tlio
season just passed, Dec. 1-15, 1921 there were eleven bucks
killed by our local hunters, more deer than were killed in this
vicinity in 20 years. So with the elimination of tlieir natural
enemies, prevention of forest fires and a strict enforcement of
the Game Laws there is absolutely no reason wliy in ;i few
years our forests should not be again the thickly tenanted li(.me of
the deer.
Of the smaller game at this writing, T would say there arc
still some wild turkeys here, although tlieir natural food chest-
nuts and acorns are no more, I know of two small floeks on
"Berry's Mt.",and (quoting J. A. Bretz, Game Protector), one
flock of about a dozen on "Short Mt." seen during the last montii.
Ruffed grouse are still plentiful hut owing to the thick gn.wtli
of underbrush are very hard to kill. On the mountains rabbits
are imusuallv scarce, but in the farming disti-icts aiid swamps
many good kills are made. Heavy and crusty snows of late
have almost exterminated the quail. In my hoyho.xl .lays it
was onlv a good days shooting for men like Geo. Irving. Job
White Edw Walters, David Gratz, James Cox. dames Dando
and many other of the best wing shots of the valley, to come
in with from 50 to 100 and even more quad tor a day s Imnt
184 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
for party. Though not plenty, there were a number of wood-
cock killed each year. During the last few years the "Game
Com. ' ' has set at liberty a number of pairs of Hares, snow shoe
rabbits, English (Ring neck) Pheasant and quail and it is
hoped that conditions favoring our small game will again
, abound to the satisfaction of all. If the Sportsmen of the
Lykens- Williams Valley will sincerely cooperate with the
"Game, Fish and Forestry" Depts. of the State we can be
assured that future generations will not only have as good but
better sport in forest, field and stream than our ancestors did
in years gone by.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW igo
IVIUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES OP GRATZ
Chief Burgess
James Kissinger
Council
Geo. Hepler Elmer Coleman
John Willard Harry Umholtz
Harvey Miller Ira Rothennal
School Board
Chas. Zerfing Chas. Evitts
Oscar Clark Wm. Reed
Darius Wcist
Board of Health
Wm. Brosius 0. T. Tobias
Tax Collector Harry Umholtz
Treasurer Ralph Troxel and Earl HofTiiian
Auditors Ralph Troxel and Karl Hoffman
Justice of the Peace I). F. Coleman
Constable Jacob "Witmer
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES OP MILLERSBUHG, PEXXA.
Chief Burgess
Frederick T. ]\TcGuire
Borough Secretary Slcplicn B. Jury
Borough Treasurer ^VilIialll M. Ib-rrohl
Counciliiien
First Ward Second Ward
J. A. W. Brubaker Frank C. Campbell. I'nsidrnt.
Frank K. Lenker C^harles L. Fcidt
R. A. Zimmerman Chester I. Cnlp
186 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Borough Solicitor
Henry Lewis Lark, Esq.
Chief of Police
William Baker
Constables
First Ward Second Ward
Charles Bechtel Edward Shatto
Justice of the peace
First Ward Second Ward
Hector H. High James D. Bowman
Tax Collector
M. Edward Wilt, Second Ward
Assessor
First Ward Second Ward
James T. Light Webster Leffler
*t5
School Board
Roscoe W. Hoffman, Pros. C. P. Polk, V. P.
Frederick K. Chance, Secy. Dr. J. E. Bogar, Treasurer.
Geo. M. Weaver
Board of Health
Dr. John W. Starr, Pres. T. F, Bradenbaugh
Frederick K. Chance Samuel T. Light
Dr. D. E. Hottenstein Stephen B. Jury, Secy.
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES OF AVICONISCO
TOWNSHIP
Constable
D. 0. Shomper
School Board
Charles Price Claude ]Minnich
Thomas Thomas Dr. E. L. Royer
Richard Lewis
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW Jgy
Board of Supervisors
John Beadel Charles V. Rowe
Adam Palmer
Assessors
James Kelly Ross Iliggins
Auditors
Theo. Gordon Foster Ilocliliindcr
John Seip
Tri-annual Assessor
Edward Minnich
Health Officer Edward Steever
Justice of the Peace Cliurlcs 11. Ilaniian
Tax Collector John (". Kiiilcy
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES OF BERRYSBURCJ, PA.
Chief Burgess
Charles Keboch
Councilmen
Peter P. Deibler Daniel i^lattcr
George F. Werner Robert K()p])enliav('r
Charles Lebo Robert AV. Deil)I('r
School Board
W. W. Hoover Harry Weaver
John Forney Daniel Lowfr
W. C. Kochor
Board of Health
Emanuel Lyter Isaac Howe
Wellington Miller W. H. Mover
Charles Deibler
Tax Collector "•'"•'> ^J"^^«'
Assessor ^^"''^'' ^'*''".^'''
Justice of the Peace ^'- ^- ^^""'***
Constable Emanuel I.ytor
188 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES OF LYKENS BOROUGH
Chief Burgess
George W. Troxel
Councilmen
George Ibberson, President
A. F. Hanna Arthur Hoffman
Ray Bowman Hiram Messner
John Renshaw Chas. A. Yeager, Secretary
School Board
James D. Helt Grover C. Kinsey
W. Walter Duncan John Ebv
Charles W. Henninger.
Board of Health
John "Welker, President Harry Blyler, Secretary
Geo, Cook Harry Walde
John Werner, Health Officer
Borongh Treasurer J. M. Miller
Supervisor and Police AVilliam Kuntzleman
Justices of the Peace W. Walter Young, W. L. Sansom
Assessors F. J. Douden, AVilliam Witmer
Constable Oscar Hawk
Tax Collector J. M. Miller
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES OF ELIZABETHVILLE, PA,
Chief Burgess
Harold L. Romberger
Councilmen
R. K. Buffington, President C. T. Romberger
G. Fred Gaupp H. H. Hassinger
Earl K. Romberger D. A. Andre
Edward F. Uhler W. F. Swab, Secretary
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
189
School Board
S. H. Knisely, President Dr. W. L. Stevenson, Treasurer
J. H. Lyter, Secretary J. A. Hoffman
J. A. Boyer
Board of Health
C. Elmer Gulp, President Dr. H. H. Collins, Scrn (orif
G. W. Lenker G. A. Kocher
Dr. Wm. H. Buehler
Borough Treasurer Geo. W. Swab
Supervisor J. F. Cook
Justices of the Peace I. S. Daniels, and S. Deitrich
Assessor J. II. Bonawitz
Constable James F. Hoffner
Park Commission
Dr. E. L. Steever G. Fred Ganpp
Harry Swab
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES OP WILLIA:\IS T0^V^•S1111^
Constable
■ Charles L. Witmer
School Board
Oscar IMoffet, President James C. Miller, Secretary
Ira Q. Clouser Arthur A. Berry
William E. Beitler, Treasurer
Board of Supervisors
William D. Keen Morris M. :\IilUT. h'aad Masl,r
W. G. Williams, Sec.-Treas.
Auditors
Daniel V. James, President Norman A. Sierer, Seen tar y
Clayton C. >AIil]er
4 ... .Mirliii'l Knorr
Assess&r , , , ,
Tax> Collector
]90 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES OF WILLIAMSTOWN
BOROUGH
Chief Burgess
Frank M. Shadel
Councilmen
Edward Lewis, President Charles A. Rank, Secretary
John N. Snyder Harry A. Miller
Charles Bost George Bressler
School Board
Charles G. Fromme, President Frank Wagner, Secretary
S. T. Fickinger Albert Wolfe
Frank Hoffman
Board of Health
Thomas Bond, Sr. Ted Blum
Aaron Crook, Secretary John J. Buggy
Assessors William I. Griffith, Roy G. Thompson
Justices of the Peace George R. Wren, John Condell
Borough Treasurer Burton A. Williard
Supervisor and Police Fritz Reisiig
Constables John McCord, Thomas Warlow
Tax Collector .- William G. Stokes
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES OF WASHINGTON TOWN-
SHIP (LOYALTON ETC.)
Constable
John Harman, Jr.
School Board,
W. L. Gougler, President John Neiman, Vice-President
George Hartman
Norman Shreffler, Secretary A, H. Rowe, Treasurer
Board of Supervisors
J. P. Johns Frank Henninger
Mr. Shadel
\
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW jgi
Roadmasters
Frank Weaver Arthur Peidt
Assessor -wt- r ma-.
VV. L. i ion man
Justices of the Peace R. E. Bohner, Arthur Feidt
Health Officer rp ^. j^^^^
Tax Collector George I). Kissinger
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITIES OF TIIK BOROU(!II
OF TOWERCITY
Chief Burgess
William F. Jones
Council
W. J. Powell Wayne Clemmer
Joseph W^hite William Shadel
Oliver Travitz Harper Updegrove
S. W. Fesig, Secretary
School Board
H. Gable W. P. Klinger
D. E. Messner William H. Martz
Board of Health
Swimming Pool and Park Comuiission
H. P. Gable, President Dr. Russell Jlenry, Tnasmir
H, T. Callen, Secretary
Borough Treasurer George Reinoehl
Tax Collector Chas. M. Kauffman
Assessor George Selirope
Justices of the Peace S. M. Fesig, Walter J. Henry
Constable \h\\'u\ Schwaim
Supervisor (Miarlfs Harlman
Borough Police Cliiirl.-s II;irtMian
192 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
IMPORTANT DATES IN THE HISTORY OF LYKENS
BOROUGH.
Discovery of coal 1825
Town Settled 1832
First house was built by Joel B, Ferree in 1832
First store conducted by M. Blum in 1832
First coal sold in the vicinity 1832
First man to be killed in the mines 1833
Lykens Valley Railroad constructed 1834
Railroad regraded and T rail laid 1848
Town laid out in lots 1848
Erection of M. E. Church. (Nolan Diary) 1852
Erection of Roman Catholic Church 1853
First Newspaper (Now the Lykens Standard ) 1856
Erection of Zion Lutheran Church 1859
Lykens M'as incorporated as a borough in 1871
Miners Deposit Bank 1872
Evangelical Association 1873
St. Johns Lutheran Church 1874
German Reformed Church 1874
United Brethern Church 1874
Christ Episcopal Church 1874
First Telephone constructed by C. W. Snyder in 1880
Water piped into the borough 1885
Fire department organized in 1885
Williams Valley Railroad finished 1892
Lykens Valley railways (Trolley) 1899
Compulsory side-walks 1906
Moving Pictures introduction 1907
Gas 1914
Electric Lights and power 1885
First National Bank . 1917
Free delivery of mail 1920
State road 1921
Public school
New building erected
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL RKVIEW
193
IMPORTANT DATES IN THE HISTOKY OF TllK Uoli-
OUGH OF ELIZABETIIVILLE.
Town was laid out in lots in ISIT
First house erected (East end of town) about 1S2:>
First Mail lf^32
School iy;j;^
Lutheran and Reformed (Jhurch erected 1833
Lykens Valley Railroad 1834
First store conducted in the town 1842
Oldest Born Resident of the town, Theodore ililler. honi ls4G
F'irst Physician in the town lcSr)2
Lykens Valley Mutual Fire Ins. Co. organized 1854
United Brethern Church erected 1871
Lykens Valley Bank 1 881
Telephone constructed by H. H. Weaver 1885
Water Companw organized and water piped 1881)
Fire Department organized. .. .1889, chartered 1894
First National Bank. . . .II. H. Weaver 19il()
Elizabethville incorporated as a borough in l'^!':{
Electric Lights 19U9
Moving Pictures 1909
State Road l-'l!'
MINE CASUALTIES AT LYKENS VALLEY MIXKS.
WICONISCO
Fatalities, Lykens Valley Mines, Since Januanj 121. 1S7S
Peter Sholey January 21. 1S7H
William Messner February 8. 1878
John Wert ^'">' ^-- ^"^''^
Chas. Baker '^"•"' ^■'- ^^"^^
Jos. Loden \"^'»'-^' -"• '"'^'^
Philip Hoffman .\..vcmi1).t 21. 18,8
Uhland •^'"'•'••^ -•^- l'^"-'
Peter Martin •^'''>- •'• ^'^'•'
William Ely ^'^'>' '• l^'ll
^, ^ , lulv 111. IS,*)
Chas. Zerby
]94 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Thomas Conley July 22
Samuel Romberger September 15
William Weaklam October 2
Michael Sheboske March 16
Simon Kneiley May 3
M. Douglas May 10
George West May 10
Robert Williams May ]0
Thomas Evans May 10
John Higgins September 14
Thomas Lord October 20.
Peter Eby January 3
Robert Snyder September 2
George Shively May 28
Thomas Cook September 13
Casimear Hentz November 7
Lawrence Shamper February 15
Jacob Hoffman April 8
Elmer Kocher September 16
Peter Starmoski May 28
George Machamer July 13
Joseph Dunlap Jr July 28
Newton Woodside October 15
Daniel Woland August 26
John Cook June 23
William Taylor August 13
George Kondrect September 16
William Zarker May 2
John C. Zimmerman May 14
Harry Umholtz July 12
George Orndorf September 12
Elias Esterline September 21
William Keist January 22
Frank Miller January 23
Henry Erdman February 11
Claude Como July 25
William Davis August 7
Phil. Hoffman November 15
1879
1879
1879
1880
1880
1880
1880
1880
1880
1880
1881
1882
1882
1883
1883
1883
1884
1884
1884
1885
1885
1885
1885
1886
1887
1887
1887
1888
1888
1888
1888
1888
1889
1889
1889
1889
1889
1889
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW I95
John Halick July n, WM
James F. Rettinger September 18, 189(:
Barney Hentz April H, 1891
Elias Harman August 31, 1891
Albert Harley August 24, 1892
Rueben Zimmerman .March 30, 1892
A. Blackway October 27, 1892
Edward Mark May 25, 1893
Julius Braner ^lay 6, 1893
Thomas Acalay August 14, 1893
Thomas Walls September 8, 1893
Edward Zerby February 6, 1 894
William 0. Bateman April 23, 1894
Harris Minnich January 9, 1895
Frank Matter May 28. 1895
Jos. Enders August 14, 1895
Charles Zandt November 11, 1895
Samuel Samuels January 28. 1897
Aaron Umholtz January 28, 1897
William Lewis June 11, 1897
Cy. Parfet April 2G, 1898
Simon Kneiley August 1. 1898
Jos. Werner October 4. 1898
Albert Williams ^"^^ -• ^^-^'^
Arthur Hammond .lanuary lU, 1900
Edward Hoffman July 12. 19(X>
James Higgins September 11. l!>00
William Longhurst January lo. 1!M)1
Uriah Minnich /'•'.;;• I o!!!
T r^'XT -1 ....June 20. 1901
James O 'Neil ,^. , ,,,^,
^ t:, 1 AuiTUst 2(v 1901
George Fegley ^ -
. , a V. ■ ^ December 24. r.HM
Andrew Sehnich
n/r- 1, ^ XT 11 December 19. 19<»1
Michael Kelly } . __ i qo"
Frank Behney ' ''^^ '"'" " ./ '~
Au'''ust •». I.'"''
Henrv W. Row • • '^ "
TTTiT Tjr XT 1, . November 25. 1903
William W. Hawk
™ , -P,. 1 August fi. 19(M
Charles Pickup ., , „-,-
.,,_,.,, . . Februnn- 2. I9n.)
Joseph Remoehl
196
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
John Windishmau September 18
August Martin April 17
David Reese January 2
Joseph Loreck March 28
Cj^rus Miller January 12
John Forney July 29
Richard Noble December 26
Harry Harman July 19
Henry Miller January —
Edward Harner November 4
Harry Trout June-
Walter Hand October 25
Wilson Gainor February 17
Joseph Wagonowski March 30
Clayton Deibler April 20
John E. Hoover May 3
Andrew Dodd June 30
Evan Evans June 30
Thomas L. Mahoney June 30
Herman Braner August 18
William Coles December 12
William Conley February 6
John E. Batdorff February 9
William Rosier March 25
Emanuel P. Miller ; April 6
John Zimmerman May 21
John Hool June 12
David Stence August 23
Andrew Fansant November 29
Harry Kocher December 14
Chas. G. Reigle March 19
William H. Metz March 30,
Nick Jarice May 8
Frank Hodge May 8
George Baxter '. May 8
8am Kerda July 22
Est. Willis July 22
Joe Patterson July 22
1905
1905
1906
1906
1907
1907
1907
1907
1908
1908
1909
1909
1910
3910
1910
1910
1910
1910
1910
1910
1910
1911
1911
1911
1911
1911
1911
1912
1912
1912
1913
1914
1914
1914
1914
1914
1914
1914
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
197
Emanuel Peters j,,,^,^^. ^^ j^^-
George Foster j^,„; ^-^ j^j-
Frank Klme Januarv 31, iyi(J
George McCoy ^^,^,,^.1, j^^ jg^g
John Grell December 10, 1916
Wm. Hchoifstall ;^,,,. r^ jgi^
^60. Hart ,I,,I,. 19^ ^917
John Charney August 15, 1917
Lewis Shadel Augu.st If). 1!)17
Roy Ki.ssiuger :\lareli 24. 1918
Chas. Fenstermacher June 17, 1918
Thos. Davis June 17. 1918
Rudolph Hirseh June 17, 1918
William Houtz April 7. 1919
Alfred Kemble October 23, 1919
John M. Williams Decembi-r 10, HH!)
Chester Forney February 9. 1920
Isaac Zerby February 9. 1920
Harry Williams Mardi 2. 1920
George Thomas (Brickette) September 11. 1920
Daniel Philips February 7. 1921
Leo Krobath April 4, 1921
Claude Maehamer .lun.' 29. 1921
Edward Loudenslager Noveml)er 28, 1921
MINE CASUALITIES AT WILLIA:\rSTOWX :\riXKS.
EMPLOYEES KILLED I^ROM WILLI. X.MS-
TOWN AND VICINITY
Mine Fatalities at Williamstoint CoUirrn. Since 1SS-)
Joe Lester -Lily 4. 1885
Sam Hamilton Line 2. 1885
Ben Cain December 1 . 188fi
Frank McBride 'l"''y •>• l'"^^-
Christ KirtchofiP Nnvmhrr 29. 1892
Wm. Temple •^'"'''■•> '^- ^^^"^
Frank Prickert ^^«>" ''• ^^^^
Thomas Kinney -'^''•>' ^' ^^'''^
198 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Harry Weist May 23
Chas. McMullen July 21
John Hess August 30
Wm. Speicker August 30
Levi Keed February 20
William Hoffman March 17
Nathan Jones March 17
William Price July 16
Joe. Roudebush July 19
John Llewellyn July 19
Martin Tait July 19
Harry Kosier January 21
Daniel Enders February 14
James Shuttleworth July 23
Thomas Jones November 8
Thomas Pharl February 15
W. W. Thompson August 3
Thomas D. Jones November 25
Daniel Updegrove March 25
George Warfield April 14
Em']. Lightner August 30
Sam'l. Rehnard September 21
Thomas Richardson November 23
William Kauffman March 23
Geo. Radel April 5
F. Bowers April 5
Levi Miller May 14
William Punch July 1 2
Wehry Noel August 21
George Astog November 20
Charles Remanaco July 17
Chas, A. James September 26
John Marungle December 21
Jerry Murry March 11
John Hill March 11
John Finney March 21
M. Golden May 25
Geo. Radel Mav 25
1893
1893
1893
1893
1894
1894
1894
1894
1894
1894
1894
1895
1896
1896
1897
1898
1898
1898
1899
1899
1899
1899
1899
1900
1900
1900
1900
1900
1900
1900
1901
1901
1901
1902
1902
1903
1904
1904
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
199
John Kinney ^^^^ 25, 1904
Aaron Koppenhaver May 25, 1904
Torpets KoppenJiaver y[.^y o') 1904
Albert Nau y^i^y 25^ 1904
Henry Frederic :\I.;y 25,19(»4
Joseph Punch :\lay 25, 19(i4
Enoch Morgan May 25, 1904
Albert James May 25, 1904
Robert Graham February 14, 1905
Charles Bufifington March 15, 1905
Theo Kirtchoff January 18, 1906
Henry Noel December 31 1906
Cyrus Miller January I'J. 1907
George Brokaes March 1, 1907
Harry Harman July 19. 1907
Benj. Waffendon October 1^4, 1907
Arther Hawk July 15, 1!»08
Chas. Richart -luly 15, 1908
eTohn Wittle July 1 5. 1908
John Riley -July 15. 1908
James Bowman July 15, 1908
Michael Stachem July 15. 1908
Claude Higgins September 2.s. 190S
Joseph Horwath January l!l. 1!I09
Jacob Miller April lL>. 19(»9
James Kander J»m«' I''- I-'"-*
George Feadder •'^lay 1. T'l 1
George Hess December 1 . liM 1
William Bainbridge December 9. 1!U 1
Charles Boniski •'""•' -"• l''^-'
Felix Hadoc 'i'"^' -"• ^''''^
Erwin Etzweiler February 4. VM4
John Crozier February 17. IMU
Charles Roudenbush February 17. IIH 1
JohnWelker ^I^«''<-'' 1*>- ^''^^
Harrv Lynch ^^''•■^•'' ''^' ^"'^
George Hallowav Deeember 14. 1!M4
Michael Schlet ^*'^*''"''- ^'^- ^''^''
200 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Joseph Olscabadge April 19, 1916
William Leitzel J^'ebruary 1, 1918
Andrew Adams July 1, 1918
(jreorge Kreiner September 14, 1918
Charles Barry January 15, 1919
Edward Wommer February 8, 1919
George Leavick April 9, 1919
Arthur McNeai December 24, 1919
Edward Donely December 29, 1919
James Woffendon March 3, 1 920
George Batdorf August 14, 1920
George Kotz August 24, 1920
John H. Haskin November 30, 1920
A. W. Koppenhaver April 9, 1921
James Kichardson 1921
Sandy Frue September 27, 1921
COMPLETE CASITALTY LIST AT THE TOWER CITY
MINES. EMPLOYEES KILLED FROM TOWER-
CITY AND VICINITY
Segretto Rocco August 1, 1918
Robert Nunemacher August 1, 1918
Levi Miller February 4, 1920
Charles English March 10, 1920
John Devine July 20, 1920
Amos Lemke June 30, 1 921
Wilson Paul November 21 , 1021
(From the office of the Mine Inspector, Ghas. J. Price, Lykens,
Pa.)
MINE CASUALITIES AT EAST AND WEST BROOKSTD^.
COLLIERY. EMPLOYEES KILLED FROM TOWERCTTY,
REINERTOWN, JOHNSTOWN AND VICINITY.
John Gamper October 2, 1 905
Charles Shadle February 5, 1906
John F. Schneider . Fcbruarv 17, 1906
DIRECTORY AXD PICTORIAL REVIEW
201
iSimon Evau,s t i 10
., ^ July 12
George Fornej- j,,,^. .,t,
Harvey Krall November 4
Henry Perkins, November 20
Andrew Schneider December JO
Anthony Denioricliia December 27
Henry Savage February 11
George Holdsmick March 4
Edward Bechtel August 26
Daniel Hert .January 5
Paul Matty lanuary 19
Alex Shumaker Marcli 9
William Bryer October J9
Anthony Wa.shko Septeml)er 7
John Brown January 80
Daniel Shoffstall March 2
Charles Mekson \pi-il 18
William Shultz A|)ril 17
Earl Bonawitz June 28
(Jliarles Jesabonus Oct. 11
John Ludwig Dec. 2
Daniel Tobias Oct. 27
Howard Bogar -Mar. JS
George Sharaper June !»>
John Louns . \»ig. 2
John Farrell Aug. 2
Daniel Farley ^"?. 2
John Fessler Aug. 2
Henry ^lurphy ^"ir. 2
Daniel McGuiley \">-'- -
Harry fland, Sr Aug.
Howard Hand ^"f?
Thomas Bekney ^"--
Jacob Koppenhaver '^"f-
Victor Zanoni ^'•^•
Egidis Lucehi ^"P^-
Kicharda Federizzi ^"f^-
Antoni's Opasici '^"?'
1906
1907
1907
19117
1907
1907
1908
1908
1908
1909
1909
1909
1909
1910
1911
1911
1911
1!>11
1911
1911
1911
l!n2
1918
1918
lf»18
li)18
l'n8
1918
1918
1!»18
1918
l!tl8
lit 18
l!n8
1!M8
1918
1918
1918
Nick Fandoupe Aug. 2
Carmine Decarapion . . , Aug. 2
Jos. Grazions , . Aug. 2
Alex Lesner Aug. 2
H. W. Schoffstall Aug. 2
Milton Strbhecker July 24
Harry Reiner Jan. 26
Harry Wagner May 7
Soloman Zerby July 31
Oscar Bettinger Dec. 15
Frank Crabb Dee. 16
John Tschubb Dec. 21
Barney Koher Mar. 14
John Labord ]\Iar. 15
Waladis Zerota July 6
Frank Troutman Jan. 3
Wm. Buchanan July 7
Henry Wert Dee. 27
James Lupoid Jan. 5
William Connors June 17
William Adams July 13
Oscar Bender Jan. 21
Frank Ersenmacher " Jan 23
Harve}^ Brown April 4
Wm. G. R. Boyer July 24
Sammuel Demilko Sept. 20
Joseph Barrie Dec. 20
James Beshel June 23
Frank Reed Mar. 7
George Thompson June 20
Peter Kerher Sept. 15
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
LOli
WILD LIFE IN THE LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY.
By Seth E. Gordon, Secretary of Penna. State Game Commission
When Avhite men first came to the Lykens-Williams Valley,
they found the entire territory covered with an unbroken f(jrest
except for a few places where the original American, tlie Indian
had found it expedient to destroy the trees in order that he
might raise corn, have suitable camping places, etc. Game
of aU sorts was found in abundance and the Indian, instead of
being a destroyer, as most white people have always thought
him to be, was careful to maintain a generous supi)ly of bene-
ficial wild life in the territory he was occupying, as a large
part of his food consisted of wild meat of various kinds. The
Indian rarely killed game simply for the lust of killing, but
instead killed only what was needed for food. While men
found it necessary- to clear off* lands for agricultural purposes,
also in order that they might build their homes a safe distance
from dense forest cover as a protection against intruders,
especially the Indian. Then followed the lumberman, and the
home of our wild life was rapidly reduced in area, thus crowd-
ing the remaining game and wild animals onto a comparatively
limited territory, and today instead of all Lykens-Williaius
Valley being a splendid home for wild creatures, the territory
for various species is very restricted, and the population, espec-
ially the hunters, doubled many times.
Our ancestors came to America to seek freedom from
European persecutions and restrictions. Thev looked upon
America as a land of plenty, and called it "the land of the free
and the home of the brave ' '. They thought our natural resourees,
including beneficial wild life, were inexhaustible, and <lid not
give the future a passing thought. On the other haiul. had it
not been for a goodly supply of game to furnish food for the
early settlers it would have been impossible for our forefathers
to establish themselves on this Continent with the rapidity they
did.
When white'men first came to the Lykens-Williams Valley
section they found the buffalo, elk, deei-. In^ar. wild tnrk.'v.
ruffed grouse, squirrel and rabbit, as well as animals elas.s.tl
204
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
as vermin such as the panther, wolf, wild cat and fox in goodly
numbers. These last mentioned wild creatures maintained a
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proper balance in the wild life of tlie forest. • Quail were not
plentiful, because they were more confined to cultivated and semi-
cultivated lands rather than dense forest territory, and in-
creased up to a certain point as the territory was settled.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
205
As the land was cleared and the timber taken out, game
was reduced very rapidly, as it furnished a large part of the
food supply. Later, forest fires practically destroyed what
remained of the various species as well as the forests. The
methods of the lumberman at that time were criminally wasteful,
but forest fires rapidly completed the work of destruction.
Later, beneficial wild life of all sorts was protected l)y law,
and in most instances increased gradually under such protec-
tion, even though the hunting population increased rapidly.
The Department of Forestry purchased a tract of about 4,(X)()
acres near Lykens, and the only game birds or animals remaining
thereon and nearby territory at that time were a few rutVcd
grouse (native pheasants) and cotton tailed ral)bits. In liH8
the Game Commission established a game refuge of about 1,80<)
acres on the State forest land in question, in which were stockeil
more than 50 deer, quite a number of wild turkeys, ring-neck
pheasants, squirrels, varying hares (snowshoe ral)bits), etc.,
which will gradually increase and overflow to the surrounding
territory. No hunting is permitted within tlie refuge at any
time. With proper protection of game and forests, the Valley
and adjacent territory in years to come will undoubtedly again
supply a sufficient amount of game to serve as an incentive to
take the sportsmen of that territory into the open to eii.joy a
day with dog and gun, get away from their daily n.utine of
life, and come back better fitted to take up their daily toil.
However, the wild life resources of the Valley can never again be
expected to furnish a meat supply, as was the cas.- when our an-
cestors came to this territory, although deer will un.loul.tedly
become more plentiful than prior to cutting our tnnber, as
nothing, outside of adequate laws properly enforced, .-ould br
more favorable to these animals than the sort of ..Towth that
follows the lumberman and forest fires.
Various forms of wild life are now extinct an.l wdl i.ro-
bablv never again appear in any number in this s.H-t.un. largely
because the territory is too densely populat.Ml. or because ih.y
have vanished from the face of the earth. It .s hoped, howe .m^
that black bears may become part of the ta.ma m the terntor.
s"ding LykenlwiUiams Valley when natural cond..u,ns
are again favorable.
206 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
ROADS IN THE VALLEY
Through the Ly kens- Williams Valley courses the Pennsyl-
vania State Highway. This road is of the good examples being
copied by many states, daily. The construction is of concrete,
however at this time the concrete section is made as far as Rife,
Pa. foundation throughout the valley is rapidly progressing and
it is estimated that in five years the permanent cement road
will be finally laid down. The road begins, or enters the vaiiey
rather, at INlillert^burg, Pa., and touches the following towns,"
Millersburg, Rife, Elizabethville, Loyalton, Big Run, Lykens,
Wiconisco, Dayton, Williamstown, Greenfields, Sheridan, Tower-
city, from where it continues to Pottsville. The two principal
city connections through this valley are Harrisburg and Potts-
ville.
RAILROADS AND TRANSPORTATIONS.
Lykens is the terminus for the Pennsylvania Rail Road and
Philadelphia and Reading Rail Road. The Lykens Valley Rail
Ways (Trolley) also terminates here. The Pennsylvania Rail
Road serve Lykens, Wiconisco, Loyalton, Elizabethville, Camp
Grounds, Lenkers, Woodside and Millersburg. The Philadelphia
& Reading serve Lykens, Wiconisco, Dayton, Williamstown,
Greenfield, Sheridan, Tower-city and way stations enroute to
Pottsville, Pa. The Lykens Valley Rail Way (Trolley) serve
and connect Lykens, Wiconisco, Dayton, Williamstown, Green-
field, Sheridan and Tower-city. There are further, a number
Auto-Bus service cars at the disposal of the public, obtaining in
practically each town. These ears offer at reasonable rates, ac-
commodation throughout the valley as well as points farther re-
moved.
Each town maintains, under private ownership, first-class
drayage service. General hauling of all kinds is founded and
carried on in each town. All these ways and means of transpor-
tation serve to exemplify monuments of a successful and pro-
gressing community.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 2U7
PUBLIC SERVICES IN THE VALLEY.
Electric Li (this.
The Lykens Valley Light and Power Co!n,)any loeat.-.l an.!
operating at Willianistown, manufactures jind distrihiites i-h-v-
tricity to the following towns in llie valley— Tow. -r-city,
Willianistown, Wiconiseo, Lykens, Jioyalton and Elizabetli
ville. The company afford the service to the entire country «lis-
trict lying between these towais in fact furnish lights and power
to three fourths of the valley. Millersl)urg electri<-ity is
furnished by the Juniata Public Service Corp.
Water.
Each town maintains its own water supply, hut not as a
borough property. These reservoirs are controlled by indivi-
duals, who have constructed fine supply dams and eonvey the
water to the respective homes at very reasonable rates. The
water obtained in any of the towns in lliis valley is wholly
spring vrater. The reservoirs are located back in tlit- mountains,
where springs and small brooks are diverted into well built
dams and then conveyed to the homes. Sufficient liealth patrols
cover the water sheds regularly at stipulated times of the year,
thus guaranteeing to the public the best of sanitary conditions.
In short the water of the various towns in the valley is of the
best to be had anywhere and has been very favorably conunen-
ted upon by critic analyses on several occasions.
Gas.
The Williamstown Gas ('ompany oj)eratiii^- and manufac-
turing w^ater gas at Lykens, supplies this modern eonvenienet- in
the following towns — Lykens, Wiconiseo, Williamstown. The
Gas is conveyed for lighting and heating-cooking purposes and
is one of the very appreciative services to these towns. It is
expected that within reiLsonable length of time this company
will extend their lines to every town in the valley.
Telephone and Telegraph.
The Telephones of the valley are the Tnited and Hell com
panics. Each town is connected therewith and service is
208 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
oi±' metropolitan nature. The Teleg'raph companies are the
Western Union and the Postal Telegraph. All local railroad
stations are the stations for these respective companies.
HIGH SCHOOLS IN LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY.
There are very few sections of similar area in the state
that can boast of the high school facilities provided in this
valley. All the liigh schools — six in number — are rated by the
state department as first grade high schools. They are located
at Williamstown, Wiconisco, Lykens, Elizabethville, Millersbnrg,
and Berrysburg. The school at Berrysburg is a rural commun-
ity vocational high school which receives federal and state aid
to the extent of two-thirds of the salaries of the teachers, to-
gether with other appropriations. Academic, home-making and
agricultural courses are offered. Home-making courses are also
given in Willi amstown and Wiconisco. Commercial courses are
offered in Williamstown and Millersbnrg. Physical Training
is an important feature of the work in Millersbnrg. A number
of the high schools have orchestras. These high schools have
formed a league for the promotion of inter-school athletics and
debating. All the schools have a greatly increased enrollment
this year. — By Prof. F. E. Shaml)augh, Dauphin County Super-
intendent of Public Schools.
The schools at Tower City and Porter Township are also
rated alike with the valley to the State, embodying the same
equipments and advanced courses.
HOFPMANS REFORMED CHURCH.
This old church edifice, a two-story frame, built almost one
hundred years ago, is two and one fourth miles from Berrys-
burg, three miles from Gratz, and is in Lykens Township. The
ground on which it is erected, was donated by Squire John
Hoffman who was a magistrate from his twenty-fifth year until
his death in the year 1877. The church is still used and has a
wide and large congregation.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
210 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
MILLERSBURG GUN CLUB.
At the extreme Southeast end of this historic Lykens-Will-
iams Valley, where the Wiconisco Creek empties into the beautiful
Susquehanna river, is located one of the leading Gun Clubs of
Pennsylvania. This club's equipment is up to date in every
respect : a one and one-half frame Club house, with fire-place
and spacious porches, on the side, is located in a maple groove,
which is a beautiful recreation park. There ideal Liggett Traps
are located to throw the targets, out over the water, with the
sky as a clear background.
The Millersburg Gun Club and Game Protective Associ-
ation was organized August 13, 1915, the object of which was to
fraternize the lovers of rod, gun and "all out doors," the suc-
cess of which was evinced by the membership roll, which reached
almost the three-hundred mark in its banner year.
As a game protective association, it liberates almast annually,
Quail, Grouse, Ringneck Pheasants and rabbits, to restock
the game fields. It feeds Game birds when the ground is
covered with snow and assists in investigations of illegal shoot-
ing of game and helps to protect same.
The present officers are:
Dr. J. W. Starr, President H. S. Gilbert, Secretary
B. Nimmons, Vice President R. Musser, Treasurer
H. Forney, Captain
Board of Governors
G. Mark Brubaker Lincoln Haines
H. E. Hoifman
DHiECTORY AND PICTOltlAl. KKMKW
211
3
5
3
o
i
212 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
LYKENS VALLEY SUMMER-RAMBO APPLE.
The famous Summer-Rambo apple, now grown in very
many sections of this state and county was discovered in the
Lykens Valley, This tree bearing the fruit was first found on
the Benjamin Reigle farm near the Reigle church about six
miles from Millersburg and is one of the choicest varieties of
the present markets. The discovery occurred over a hundred
years ago and is one of the cherished bits of ancestral infor-
mation handed down through the Jerry Weaver family of
Millersburg.
To those who have not known this before it is well to re-
member, as well as display great pride in knowing that each
and every Summer-RamlDo dates back to our beautiful valley and
has been grafted, transplanted, raised and developed from this
humble beginning until now, it has become one of the nation's
choicest fruits.
DIRECTOllY AND PJCTURIAL liEViEW 213
SPORTS OF THE VALLEY
Here in the Lykens-Williams Valley are followed and in-
dulged ill many of the diversified sports of the country, liasc-
bail, Football, Tennis, Basketball, Hunting, Fishing, Trap-
shooting, Trapping, Swimming and Skating. The leading
amusement or eommercialized sport, however, is Hascl»all. In
this end the Twin County League predoiiiinatt's. This jeaguu
is formed of the various towns in the valley and heated antag-
onism ereates a valley- wide interest in the sport.
The pennant winner for the season 1921 was the Williams-
town team.
Football is played in nearly all the towns and wilii a tVw
exceptions is confined wholly to local high schools. There being
however picked teams of some of the towns who engag;* oc-
casionally in hotly contested games. Tennis, liasketball. eie..
have organized team-followers and neatly kept courts and halls
offer at various seasons of the year real live i)arti('ipation in
those sports. Track-Meets are frequently lu-ld duriii'jr the
summer months' and are participated in by eatli town. During
the season 1921 Lykens-Wiconisco Football team attained the
distinction of being the champions of Dauphin and York
Counties. An illustration of this team apjiearing ou page 22.') in
this volume, along with the personnel, si)eaks truly f(tr its.-It.
On th? following pages are given tiie line-up of most «.f the
teams, with their summary for the season of liU'l. and they
surelv have a record to be proud of.
214
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
J. Albert
Quarter-Back
Ray JMack
Half-Back
B. Lowry
Half-Back
Jerry Mack
Full-Back
"Biiik" Coles
End
Pat Shoniper
Earl Dolan
TEAMS' OF THE VALLEY.
Williamstown Football Team.
Joe Kramer
Tackle
Jim Savage
Guard
Lee Kramer
Center
Bob Ramsey
Guard
Charlie Eromme
Tackle
Jimraie Meehan
End
Suhstitutes.
Pat Savage
Mart Walkinshaw
POPULAR SPORTS OF WICONISCO
High School
Boys' Basket-Bail Team
This loam lias won the honors of being the Champions of the
Upper End, Season of 1921-1922
Foivards
Rol^ert Keen
Center
John Gittings
Guards
Carson Schoffstal
Suhstitutes
Leroy Cooper
Laurence Batdorf
Paul Aucker
Ilolden Thomas
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
215
216
LYKEXS-WJLLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Girls' Basket-Bali Team
Foivards
Millie Minnieh Edith Hoffman
Center
Beatrice Esterline
Guards
Leah Miu'her Florence Batdorf
Substitutes
Florence Cooper Pauline Lewis
WILLIAMSTOWN HIGH SCHOOL
Girls' Basket-Ball Team
Foivards
Florence jMack Nora Zimmerman
Center
Hannah Fickinger
Giiards
Dorothy Walkinshaw May Walkinshaw
Suhstitute
Bernice Leo
Bojj's Basket-Ball Team
Foivards
H. Lesher S. Warlow (Capt'n.)
Center
J. Shuttles worth
Guards
AV. Hoffman H. Morgan
Suhstitute
C. Donley
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL RKVIKW
•2V
PERSONNEL OF THE TWIN-COUNTY LEAOIK TKAMS
SEASON OP 1921
AViLLIAMSTOWN
R. J. Mates, Mgr.
G. Adams, p
Budd, p
F. Shuttlesworth, p-c f
Row, c
J. Shuttlesworth, 1 b-2 1)
J. Shuttlesforth, 1 b-2 b
Thompson, 1 1)
Meehan, 2 b
Mates, s s
Albright, ;] b
liourie, 1 f
Buggy, c f
Rhoades, r f
Lykens
C. L. Thomas and
W. C. Tniiit. .Mjrra.
Buggy, ])
R. Maftcr, p
Reigle, p
Daniels, c
Magee, c
('lough, 1 h-p
Kimmell, 1 b-e
Kepner, 2 b
Umhollz, s s-3 b
B. Williams, 8b- s s
E. Williams, 1 f
Messner, c f
Foster, t- f
IIaijfax
Isaac F. Bowman, Mgr.
Matter, p
II. Biever, p
Hoffman, c
L. Lebo, e
Landis, 1 b-p
Freeland, 2 b
R. Biever, s s
N. Bowman, 3 b
Spahr, 1 f
Wert, c f
S, Bowman, r f
n. Bowman, ntil
MiLLKRSBURG
Geo. Frvf, Mgr.
Mcr>ri(l(", p
Kline, i>-3 b
R. Ilolt'iiuiii, 3 l»-|>
Frye, c
Day, 1 b
R. MWlvv, 1 b
Seal. 2 h
Kerr, 2 I)
S. Miller, s s
Shatto, 1 f
FralieU. c f-p
Adams, c f
lleckert. r f
23 8
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Tower city
M. L. Beamensderfer and
Jack Fesig, Mgrs.
H. Shomper, p
Williams, p-3 b
Driesigacker, p
Beamensderfer, c
Fegley, 1 b
R. Shomper, 2h-r f
H. Updegrove, 8 s
R. Miller, 3 b
Unger, 2 b-3 b
A. Updegrove, 1 f
Nyer, c f-1 b
C. Lebo, c f
R. Updegrove, r f
The best p'ayers in their
Pitchers
a. Adams i\V)
Buggy (L)
N. Shuttlesworth (W)
Stansfield (E)
H. Biever (H)
H. Shomper (T C)
Hoffman (M)
Catchers
Frye (M)
Beamensderfer (T C)
Row (W)
G. Buffington (E)
First basemen
N. Shuttlesworth (W)
Land is (H)
Miller (E)
Elizabethville
S. M. Bolton, Mgr.
Stansfield, p
Fetterhoff, p
G. Buffington, c
J^Iiller, 1 b
Mattis, s s-2 b
Walker, 2 b
Fauber, s s
J. Zeigler, 3 b
R. Buffington, 1 f
L. Zeigler, c f-p
Tschopp, r f
Swab, util
P. Buffington util
E. Zeigler, util
respective positions :
Second basemen
Mattis (E)
Meehan (W)
Freeland (H)
Third basemen
J. Zeigler (E)
Kline (M)
B. Williams (L)
Short stops
R. Biever (H)
Mates (W)
Umholtz (L)
Left fielders
E. Williams (L)
Lourie (W)
A. Updegrove (T C)
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL KIAIKW
2\\)
Centre fielders Rig^t fielders
^^^ert (H) • S. Bowman (II)
Messner (L) Foster (L)
F. Shuttlesworth (W) R. Updej,Tove (T C)
TWIN-COUNTY BASEBALL J.KAGLE
Leading Batters
G. A. B. R. II. 1'. ( .
F. Shuttlesworth (W) 17 61 19 28 .459
N. Shuttlesworth (W) 14 55 8 23 .418
Mattis (Ej 38 159 36 66 .415
Frye (M) 32 121 27 50 .413
Lourie (W) 38 168 43 64 .381
G. Buffington (E) 35 138 20 50 .362
G. Adams (W) 16 45 8 16 .355
J. Zeigler (E) 33 123 26 42 .341
R. Updegrove (T C) 24 62 18 21 .339
Feg-ley (T C) 30 111 20 37 .333
S. Bowman f 11) 20 76 8 25 .329
R. Biever ai) 38 140 35 46 .328
B. Williams (L) 36 128 39 42 .328
Row (W) 39 144 36 47 .326
R. Buffinoton (E) 39 137 22 38 .321
Landis (H) 37 140 25 44 .314
L. Zeigler (E) 35 137 25 44 .313
Mates (WO •"^f^ 1<'» ^^ •'">- -^l^'
Most runs made by Mo^l thru has, hils nunl, Im
Mates (W) 43
Lourie (W^ 43
E. Williams (Li
Males (W)
E- Williams (L) 39 t^^„ffi,,,,„ ,,,,
B. Williams (L) 39
R. Shomper (T C) 37
Mattis (E) 36
Row (WO 36
Most two base hits made hy E. Williams (L) .. . 6
R. Biever (H) 18 H. Sliomper (T C) . 5
Mattis (E) IT) Lourie (W) 3
Frye (M) 1- ^^- ^Villiams (L) ■'?
Kimmell (Li
.1///.s7 Imnii runs nnidi /)»/
220
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Most stolen bases made by
Frye (M) 16
Wert (H) 16
J. Shiittlesworth (W) ... 15
J. Zeigler (E) 15
Most sacrifice hits made by
J. Zeigler (E) 9
Walker (E) 8
E. Adams (M) 8
H. Bowman (H) 7
Umholtz (L) 7
G. Biiffington (E) 7
Best pitching records made hy
W.
G. Adams (W) " 11
Buggy (L) 8
N. Shuttlesworth (W) 5
Stansfield (E) ;. ... 12
Matter (H) 8
R. Matter (L) 5
Budd (W) 8
H. Biever (H) 10
H. Shomper (T C) 8
Team Fielding
P. 0. A. E.
Williamstown 997 414 80
Tower City 926 371 92
Halifax 973 442 101
Millersburg 968 446 103
Lykens 1021 411 120
Elizabethville 1022 454 150
Team Batting
L.
1
1
1
4
3
2
5
7
8
T. C.
1491
1389
1516
1517
1552
1626
Williamstown .
Elizabethville . ,
Lykens 1447
AB R H 2b3b4bsbsh
1369 308 428 50 37 16 81 39
1421 243 438 60 28 3 58 41
285 385 64 42 13 40 22
Tower City 1188 192 298 35 11 9 50 18
Halifax 1285 172 316 60 11
5
74 18
P.C.
.917
.888
.833
.750
.727
.714
.615
.588
.500
P.C.
.946
.934
.933
.932
.923
.908
p c
.313
.308
.266
.251
.246
Millersburg 1166 164 284 55 13 5 71 41 .244
DIKECTURY AND PICTORIAL HKMHW
TWIN-COUNTY BASEBALL LKAdlK
. Pitching Records
Av.
Runn
Per
G Inn,gs R W. S. O. B.B. Game W. I,. ivt.
F. Shuttleworth (W) 5 31 17 33 17 4 o 3 1.000
McBride (M) 7 42 27 47 24 17 5 2 1.000
Patrick (T. C.) 2 11 3 11 4 7 3 1 1.000
Bendigo (T. C.) 2 7 5 7 6 2 6 1 o 1.000
Adams (W) ir, 104 .52 102 69 27 4 Vj 11 1 .917
Bugg^- (L) 13 77 39 .'}6 88 17 4 Vs K 1 .888
N. Shuttleworth (W) .... 8 58 26 49 62 6 4 5 1 .833
Stansfteld (E) 16.144 98 161 88 36 6 12 4" . 7.'.0
Matter (H) 12 91 55 83 60 21 5Vi H 3 .727
R. Matter (L) 10 54 30 56 28 11 6 5 2 .714
Burld (W) 15 105 41 80 97 26 3 Vj 8 5 .815
H. Biever (H) 17 143 56 132 143 18 3 Vi 10 7 .588
H. Shomper (T. C.) 22 138 95 149 107 26 6 8 8 .500
Clough (L) 6 47 36 41 26 20 7 3 3 . SOO
Sallada (L) 3 17 14 17 13 13 7 1 1 .500
Kline (M) 12 78 55 106 45 18 O^ 5 7 .416
Messner (L) 5 35 12 26 35 10 3 2 3 .400
R. Hoffman (M) 19 126 74 131 75 30 5 5 8 .385
Reigle (L) 12 28 58 78 68 19 6% 3 5 .S7i
Landis (H) 11 84 40 79 CS 19 4 V* 3 6 .333
Fralick (M) 8 51 48 65 30 14 8 V^ 2 4 .333
Williams (T. C.) 16 91 68 111 42 11 6% 3 H .272
Driesigacker (T. C.) 7 36 31 45 30 22 7% 1 4 .200
Fetterhoff (E) 14 109 97 113 66 20 8 2 12 .143
L. Zeigler (E) 5 16 28 32 12 6 Ifi 2 .000
J. Shuttleworth (W) 4 24 31 43 3 6 12 O 2 .000
Wise (E) 3 13 17 27 8 14 12 3 .000
Ruff (E) 3 14 15 23 14 6 10 1 .000
R. Buffington (E) 2 14 10 8 5 4 7 1 .000
The following pitchers lost the onl}' game they pitclieil in: .Miller and KniiiT (or
Tower City, S. Bowman and Corsnitz for Halifax, M. .M:itt<T fur l.yketis. Shatlo (or
Millersburg, Jones for Williamstown and J. Zeigler, Strieker and .\pi> f^ir Kli.-.i!..-ilnillr
DEFENSIVE RECORDS
G.
G. Adams (W) p 16
N. Shuttlesworth (W) 1 b.-p.. 14
T. Miller (E') c. f 10
Spangler (L) 2 b 7
M. Miller (E) 1 b., 37
J. Shuttlesworth (W) 1 b., 33
Daniels (L) 1 b., 32
Spahr (H) 1. f., 34
Beamensderfer (T. C.) c. .. 40
Landi.s (H) 1 b.-p., 37
P.O.
A.
K.
p.r.
1
45
1.00(1
64
2f>
1.00(1
9
(»
1.000
6
7
l.OOfl
35:?
i;;
5
.98fi
197
37
A
.983
214
28
5
.980
45
3
1
.980
2 fir.
42
8
.974
267
35
S
.974
222 ■ LYKENS-WILLIAMS
VALLE\
HISTOBX
264
6
8
.971
28
6
1
.971
- 122
4
4
.969
40
21
2
.968
218
46
9
.967
286
29
11
.966
143
22
6
.965
8
42
2
.961
7
43
2
.961
143
2
6
.960
121
17
6
.959
3
42
2
.957
212
36
12
.954
213
16
11
.954
59
1
3
.952
191
23
11
.951
47
7
3
.947
45
7
3
.945
137
19
9
.945
28
40
4
.944
44
56
6
.943
101
8
7
.939
60
90
10
.937
54
19
5
.936
78
9
6
.935
20
6
2
.928
39
36
6
.926
62
1
5
.926
17
57
6
.925
37
21
5
.921
29
5
3
.919
23
22
4
.918
9
24
3
.917
3
8
1
.916
54
9
6
.913
78
89
16
.912
23
7
4
.912
102
122
22
.911
31
72
10
.911
24
7
3
.911
24
15
4
.907
45
107
16
.905
79
63
15
.904
71
107
19
.904
87
23
12
.901
80
64
16
.900
65
15
9
.898
18
17
4
.897
48
78
15
.893
37
12
6
.891
26
56
10
.891
37
4
5
.891
8
32
5
.888
31
6
5
.881
22
63
12
.876
4
10
2
.875
Fegley (T. C.) 1 b., 30
Schroyer (H) c 5
Tliompson (W) 1 b 19
Kerr (M) c.-2 b., 12
Frye (M) c, 32
Row (W) c 39
L. Lebo (H) c, 20
M. Matter (H) p., 21
H. Biever (H) p., 18
^ay (M) 1 b 15
H. Bowman (H|) util 40
H. Shomper (T. C.) p., 25
G. Buffington (E) e 35
Clough (L) 1 b., 33
Nyer (T. C.) c. f.-l b 18
R. Miller (M) 1 b 29
A. Updegrove (T. C.) 1. f., .. 31
E. Foster (L) r. f., 35
Magee (L) c, 22
R. Miller (T. C. )3 b 22
Meehan (W) 2 b 28
Kimiuell (L) c.-e. f., 18
Kepner (L) 2 1)., 38
R. Buffington (E) 1. f., 39
I. Hoffman (H) c 10
F. Shuttlesworth (W) c. f.-p., 17
Fralick (M) util.-p 34
M. Buggy (M) c. f 32
Stansfield (E) p., 18
McBride (M) util. p., 17
Heckert (M) r. f 29
Messner (L) c. f.-p., 27
Reigle (L) p., 17
Sallada (L) p., 4
Adams (M) c. f 34
Mattis (E) s. S.-2 b., 38
S. Bowman (H) r. f 20
S. Miller (M) s. s 38
Kline (M) p.-3 b., 27
Tschopp (B) r. f., 25
J. Buggy (L) c. f.-p 29
H. Updegrove (T. C.) s. s. . . 39
Freeland (H) 2 b 40
Mates (W) s. s., 39
Walker (E) util. 30
R. Shomper (T. C. ) 2 b.-r. f., 39
Lourie (W) 1. f., 38
Seal (M) 2 b 12
N. Bowman (H) 3 b 40
L. Zeigler (E) e. f. , 35
Albright (W) 3 b., 32
C. Lebo (T. C.) c. f 16
Budd (W) p. 21
Rhodes (W) r. f., 37
R. Hoffman (M) p.-3 b., 33
Driesigacker (T. C.) p 10
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
223
Neubaum (M) r. f
L. Shorn per (T. C.) util..
J. Zeigler (E) 3 b., ..
E. Williams (L) 1. f., .
Wert (H) c. f
Unger (T. C.) 2 b.-3 b.,
Umholtz (L) 3 b.-s. s.,
SHatto (M) 1. f.,
W. Williams (T. C.) p.-r
B. Williams (L) s. s.-3 b.
R. Biever (H) s. s., ...
Fauber (E) s. s
E. Zeigler (E) util., ..
P. Buffington (E) util.,
I. Bowman (H) 1 b., .
R. Updegrove (T. C.) r. f
Fetterhoff (E') p.,
Mitchell (L) c. f
Swab (E^ util
J. Buffington (E) 3 b., .
5
oo
38
32
21
37
22
31
36
38
31
13
16
7
24
21
9
10
7
4
3
1
6
1
1
32
58
14
50
12
8
33
3
6
29
19
8
47
54
17
25
4
5
24
26
9
77
89
29
35
114
27
61
64
25
24
15
.S
19
4
58
»>
26
2
1
8
28
12
7
7
5
9
12
8
6
8
13
.875
.875
.865
.857
.857
.857
.856
.853
.847
.843
.841
.833
.830
.826
.816
.800
.750
.737
.724
..'.19
TWIN COUNTY BASEBALL LEAGUE
Final Standing Season of 1921
ti
<
«
u
>.
>
to
05
s
73
X
.a
CO
^^
oi
u: t
53
(U
— V
^2
M
^
,—1
>
N
Q
— i_
^
s
5
5?
^ —
Williamstown, . .
5
6
5
5
6
27
.710
Lvkens
3
4
4
5
1
23
.589
Halifax
2
4
4
4
4
6
O
o
6
4
16
1.'.
14
..-..'.0
Millersburg,
1
.41:1
.::.s4
Tower City
Elizabethville, . .
3
2
2
1
2
2
5
4
5
3
Lost
.. 11
16
18
22
24
26
1 1 1
-
224
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
LYKENS AND WICONISCO ATHLETIC CLUB
FOOT-BALL SQUAD.
Those appeai'ing in illustration.
Top, left to right — Malcolm W. Orr, Coach: Reigle, Guard:
Ray Hoffman, Centre: "Kat" Snyder, Centre: Cooper, Half
Back : Jim Hoffman, Half Back : Kosier, End : Bateman, Referee :
William ("Hammer") Witmer, Manager.
Second Row, left to right — "Uni" Snyder, End: Loyd Snyder,
Guard : Williams, Quarter Back : Umholtz, Full Back : Shreiner,
Full Back, (Captain) : Kniley, Half Back: Irvin Snyder, Guard:
J. Thompson, Guard : Golden, Tackle :
Sitting, left to right— Ike Witmer, End: "Spud" O'Neil,
Tackle : Calnon, End : Wm. Mahoney, Tackle : Troutman, Half
Back : Walter Hoffman, Quarter Back.
Summary of 1921 Season.
L. & W. A. C.
L. & W. A. C.
L. & W. A. C.
L. & W. A. C. 13 At Home
L. & W. A. C. 53 At Home
L. & W. A. C. 40 At Home
L. & W. A. C. 7 At Away
L. & AV. A. C. 20 At Home
L. & W. A. C. 20 At Home
L. & W. A. C. 13 At Away
L. & W. A. C. 37 At Home
October 8
Northumberlan(
i
, October 16
Pottsville
26
October 23
Shamokin
October 29
Shamokin
November 8
Ashland
November 11
Pottsville
November 13
Treverton
November 19
Treverton
November 24
Williamstown
November 26
Williamstown
December 3
York
7 At Away
At Away
At Away
The L. & W. A. C. Foot-Ball team has set a record never
before attained by any team in the Valley. Each player was
well trained to his respective position by the excellent coach,
Mr. Malcolm W. Orr whose timely judgement and keen know-
ledge of Foot-Balldom was well examplified. Under the man-
agement of William L. Witmer Proprietor of the Auraror Pool
Parlor, the team could have attained no better laurels then
the Champions of Dauphin and York Counties. Which title
they so nobly carried off.
226 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
TOWER CITY SWIMMING POOL
Tower City and Porter Township Swimming Pool and Park
Playground.
Very unfortunately it was impossible to have a picture of
this beautiful spot made, due to the weather. Since this vol-
umn was compiled during the winter months of 1921-1922.
The Author, however has visited the place and must confess
that here is the making for a real honest recreation site. The
pool in itself is one of the very beautiful to behold and the im-
provements proposed to be made by the commission during the
Spring of 1922, certainly will afford seashore pleasures here
in the mountains. The entire site is comprised of nineteen acres.
The shrubbery and timber is chiefly Spruce, the contour of the
hills is magnificent while the pool reflects to one the mes-
sage of mirth and joy. Towercity and Porter Township as well
as the surrounding territory can well be proud of so exact and
ideal a site and stream for the purpose they pursue. It is the
natural gift of mother earth.
ST. JOHNS LUTHEEAN (HILL) CHURCH.
St. Johns congregation of Lykens Valley, Dauphin County,
occupies in various particulars a unique position among sister
congregations. She was never fettered with union Churches.
She had almost continuously a pastor right in her midst. Latt-
erly, altho a country congregation, she has had the exclusive ser-
vices of a pastor — with church privileges equal to any town con-
gregation. Highly favored in location and temporal possessions
and more so in spiritual privileges, — what has thus far been her
history ?
Location. — Lykens Valley, noted for its beauty, fertility of
soil and coal, is in the most northern part of Dauphin County,
and extending eastward from the Susquehanna River. St.
Johns is seated in the very centre of this valley with the church
on an elevation overlooking the country in every direction for
many miles and therefore the popular name — "the hill church".
A stranger on seeing this beautiful two-story brick church, with
\
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 227
handsome steeple— cross surmounted— is led to exclaim in the
words of the Psalmist in his description of Mt. Zion— Ps. 47.
Early History.~Th.e congregation, according to date of
organization, stands second to those in the valley and of Con-
ference, altho preaching began here simultaneously with that
of other points. The Rev. J. Mich. Enderline— pioneer mis.sion-
ary— began his labors in this vicinity in the year 1773 and ex-
tended them from Upper Dauphin into Schuylkill, Northumber-
land and Snyder Counties. In 1870 this congregation \va.s
organized by R'ev. Enderline with Christian Schung and John
Matter as deacons.
Churches. — For twenty years the infant congregation em-
ployed a log school house for its place of worship, which gave
it the name in early years of "the school house congregation.**
January 19, 1797, at a congregational meeting a conunittee was
elected and charged with the erection of a "new" church.
This church— without corner stone— was built of logs on the
present site with galleries on three sides — a stately church in
its day. Dedicated October 24, 1802, by Rev. Jolin Ilerbst.
pastor, and Dr. George Lochman, of Harrisburg. Later this
edifice was weatherboarded and in 1856 the steeple with belfry
was added.
In the year of 1876 the log church gave way to the present
handsome church. The corner-stone was laid ]\Iay 21. 1S76. liy
the pastor, the Rev. R. S. Wagner, assisted by Dr. K. .1. )•'.
Schantz, and Revs. M. B. Lenker and J. M. Urich. The dedi-
cation took place Nov. 11, 1877. Dimensions, TiO by 87 feet.
Steeple and pulpit recess. Ample basement for Sunday School
purposes, divided into three departments. Cost of church.
$13,122. The last of the debt on this ehureh was pai<l in ISOci.
228 LIKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
THE OLD STONE CHURCH, ELIZABETHVILLE, PA.
(By a vote of 130 to 32 the congTegation of the Lutheran
and Reformed Churches on Sunday, ]\Iarch 5th, 1911, decided
to dispose of the old stone church in the west end of town. Mr.
Harvey M. Miller, the Poet Laureate of the valley, being moved
by the action, wrote the following poem :
The Old Stone Church.
The old stone church is crumbling down
And falling to decay;
The Christian cradle of the town
Is marked for Ruin's prey.
The temple that our fathers reared,
In service to our God,
Like they, shall soon have disappeared
And ciTimbled in the sod.
Yet, be it leveled to the ground.
And not a stone remain, —
On memory's walls will still be found
The old church pictured plain.
The good old songs we used to sing
AVithin those hallowed walls,
Thro' all our days shall sweetly ring.
Until the Master calls.
We'll see our fathers gathered there,
As in the golden days,
Our dear old mothers bowed in prayer.
Shall lift their hearts in praise.
And from that consecrated desk
Both Steck and Kretzing taught.
And now in memory's arabesr|ue
We find their faces wrought.
DIKECTORY AND PICTORIAL RKMKW .>,y
There Wagner read the ble&sed liook,
And Stauffer heav'n portrayed,
There Hillpot bid us upward look,
And Kuhn devoutly prayed.
These, all, are gone to their reward,
Their souls are with the just,
And now, this temple of the lord ;
Shall mingle with their dust.
The old church but a pile of stone ?
Forbid, Almighty God!
This was our father's Christian home,
Here saintty mothers trod.
Oh, consecrate yourselves anew
And to their faith be bound !
They blazed the way for me jiiid vdu
Upon this holy ground.
Where Ilemping led the i)ioneer.
And taught him to be true.
And Gerhardt rang the gospel t-Icar, —
Will all come into view.
There Welden, Leis and Yeagcr stood.
Expounding sacred Love,
And marshalled Christian hrotherhuod
Before the civil AYar.
And wliile men murdered men for hate.
Upon the battlefield,
Walz preached the Love Immaculate,
Whereby all wounds are healed.
And Bressler broke the bread of life.
Unsheathed the Spirit's swonl.
And generaled for a holier strife
The ai'my of the Lord.
230 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
There, from the pulpit Shindel told
The good old, sweet old story;
There Lesher massed the faithful bold
And led the way to glory,
A pile of stone ! — and is that all ?
Mayhap, by worldly rules,
Nay, see within that basement hall
The mother of our schools.
Alas, how quickly we forget!
How thankless all mankind!
How dumb to every sacred debt.
To grateful service blind.
Go, tear it down ! Let not a stone
Remain on yonder hill.
Wher'er the love of God was sown
Its memory lingers still.
And when we, too, shall take our flight
And crumble 'neath the sod,
The old stone church will greet our sight
In the galleries of God!
Harvey M. Miller
EUzahethville, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
231
WHO'S WHO IN MILLERSBURG
CHAS. W. NOLL
MiLLERSBURG, Pa.
Mr. Noll is a native of Millersburg and oni' of its wry
progressive business men. He is a photographer of indisputable
knowledge and character. A large number of the illustrations
in this volume are his work and they all speak for themselves.
He is a member of the Millersburg Gun Club, a lover of the
great out-doors and is connected with a number of local frater-
nal organizations. He has constantly been a vahiable assistance
to all local, civic and community enterprises.
S. W. COOPER
Millersburg, Pa.
Mr. Cooper is a life-long native of .Alillersburg. He is a
descendent of the early Kuper family, early settlers of the
valley. The author has been able to trace Mr. Cooper's family
232 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
line back to 1756. He has served the borough as school director
for nine years, and served as county surveyor for a period of
three years. Mr. Cooper is at present engaged in the Engin-
eering business, and is rated among Millersburg's successful
business men.
c. c. McLaughlin
MiLLERSBURG, Pa.
Mr. McLaughlin was born at Carsonville, Pa. and is a grad-
uate of Shippensburg Normal School class of 1906. Taught
in public schools of Jefferson, Jackson Townships and Elizabeth-
ville borough. For 6 years he was assist. Chief Clerk to the
State Water Supply Commission, which position he resigned to
become Secretary and General Manager of the Millersburg
jNIilling Co. Inc. In 1921 he purchased his present business.
Billiard Parlor and cigars, at 249 Market Street, in which he
is still engaged. ^Iv. ]\IcLaughlin is a real business man and
is a highly respected citizen of the borough. He takes a keen
interest in the sports of the town, and has held several execu-
tive positions in several sporting organizations.
DR. J. W. STARK
IMlLLERSBURG, Pa.
Dr. Starr came to Millersburg in 1895 entering the drug
business, which business he still conducts. He is an active
member in the Millersburg Gun Club and takes a keen interest
in all out of door sports. He has served the Borough as a mem-
ber of the Board of Health for a number of years and has
been instrumental in various community enterprises. At the
time of the Centennial Celebration in 1907, Dr. Starr was a
member of the Executive Committee.
THOMAS J. LONG
IMlLLERSBURG, Pa.
Here is a native citizen of the borough of Millersburg and
a direct descendent of the old Longe family, who were among
the first to settle in this section. There is a narration of this
family, which recites being driven from their home by the In-
dians, from the present site of Millersburg. Mr. Long is a life-
DlIiECTOKY AND PICTOiilAL liEVlEW oy^
long resident of the borough where he has conducted l.usiness
for many years. At present he is engaged in the Hardware
business which dates back twenty years.
JAMES LIGHT
]\llLLERSBURG, Pa.
Mr. Light is a native of Millersburg and a dcsccndcnt of
very early settlers. He has been a school teacher for twenty-
seven years, grammar school at Millersburg. At an early ajre
he developed a desire to enter the pliotography Inisiness and
up until 1872 was active in that line of work. .\ number of
the illustrations appearing in this volume are the results of
jMr. Light's early activities, especially so the picture of Wicon-
isco Canal, taken in 1872.
J. S. HECKERT
IMlLLERSBURG, Pa.
Born in Northumberland County, Mr. Heckert came to
Millersburg at the age of nine years and has been a life-long
resident of that Borough since. He entered the marble and
granite works, business in 1888. He has served the Boniugh in
the capacity of council man for a number of years, jdaying a
very important part in the development of the lown and iiring-
ing about many improvements among which might be named
pavements, paved streets, electric lights, sewers, etc., He is a
highly respected citizen of Millersburir and is interested in
every movement making for the betterment of the community.
H. H. WALBORX
IVIlLLERSBURG, Pa.
Mr. Walborn is a native and life-long resident of this Uir-
ough. He is a descendent of the early settlers of thr valley.
For twenty years he conducted a baking establishment and
was organizer of the Modern Woodmen of Ameriea in this
vicinity, of which order he is still Distri.-t Deputy. Mr has
served the Borough as School Director f(.r a number of yeaiN
and is one of its highly respected eiti/cns. .Mr. Walborn is an
enthusiastic follower of Tzaak Walton, a.id a very interested
member of the gi'cat outdoor sports.
234
LTKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
S. W. COOPER
Millersburg, Pa.
HERBERT M. MILLER
Millersburg, Pa.
c. c. McLaughlin
Millersburg, Pa.
JAMES LIGHT
Millersburg, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
235
DR. J. W. STARR
Millersburg, Pa.
THOMAS J. LONG
Millersburg, Pa.
H. H. WALBORN
Millersburfl, P«.
H. H. HOY
Millersburg, Pa.
')jf; LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTOllY
WHO'S WHO IN WTCONISCO
JOHN MURPHY
WicoNisco, Pa,
Mr. Murphy was born iu Irelaucl and came to Wiconiscu
.sometime along 185U. He assisted materially in the develop-
ment of the town and to-day stands out as one of not only
Wiconisco's respected citizens, but also the entire valley.
jNIr. Murjjhy has been engaged in the hotel business for
thirty-two years, but immediately upon prohibition enactment,
discontinued the same and entered the grocery business. He
has served the county as Commissioner and while serving, was
instrumental in having the county taxes adjusted from 8 mills
on two-third value to 3 mills on half valuation. At the out-
break of the civil war he served a period of several months
before being mustered. In October 1864 he enlisted in the
regular army and was assigned to the third Pennsylvania cav-
alry. He served as an orderly to the staff of President Lincoln,
and rode into Petersburg Virginia with the staff when that
city fell. A unique experience of Mr. Murphy is that he carried
the last message issued by General Meade in the civil war. He
carried this message and delivered the same a few minutes
prior to Lee's surrender. He served throughout the entire period
of the war and was mustered out of the army with the fifth
Penn'a Cavalry. Mr. Murphy, is of a jovial nature and known
to every child in the community, he is a friend of everybody
and a real citizen of the country.
CHARLES H. HARMAN
WicoNisco, Pa.
Mr. Harman was born in Lykens Township, and came to
Wiconisco in 1880. In 1899 he was elected Justice of the Peace
of that Township, which office he still holds. He served as
assessor from 1905 to 1913. It is Mr. Harman 's grandfather
that is spoken of as assisting in the construction of the Lykens
Valley Railroad.
UlltECTOHY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 2\i'i
W. II. KISSINGER
WicoNisco, Pa.
This enterprising business was started by A. F. Kiimiiel
in the year ISbf) and J\lr. Kissinger was then the manager. In
the year 1905 the name was changed lo W. II. Kissinger and
Company. In 1904 the place of business was destroyed by lire
and to-day a modern building occupies the ohl site of the Kiss-
inger and Company store. ^Ir. Kissingei- is the inauagcr. lie
assisted to organize the Lykens N^allcy .MciH-aiilih' ("oinitany
in 1911 and has been its Pi-esideut siiu'e thai tinif.
SAMUEL H. MIIjLEK
WicoNisco, Pa.
One of the oldest mercantile establislnnents (if Wieonisco
is that of Samuel INIiller Estate, now conducted l)y S. II. MiUcr.
The business was first started by Mr. .Miller's iatin-r in 1S<>H
as Miller and Heilner. In 1900 Mr. :\liller purchased tlie siuiie
and upon his death in 1904, his son continued the business and
up until date has made very progressive iniproveiiients. Mr.
Miller is a Director of the Lykens Building and Loan A.>vso<'i-
ation and the First National Bank also of that town, lie is
a loyal supporter of all civic and conuiiuiiity iiinvements in
Wieonisco.
FORM AN BROTHERS
WicoNisco, Pa.
The business of Forman Brothers is a nionuineiit to real
perseverance and business piinciples. Ccmiing to Lykens in th.-
year 1906— these two brothers located in Wieonisco and began
business at once on a very small scale. They increascil yearly.
until 1911 they conducted probably tlu- birgesf nien-han.lis.-
store in Wieonisco. Continuing in thrir progress! vene.s.s untd
1918 in which year they opencl a branch in Lyk.-ns. Ti.-day
they'are considered among the largest Merchandise Department
enterprises in the ui)per end. They have always supi.orted all
local, civic and community mov.>m.-n1s. and a.- b-.tb w.-ll re-
spected citizens of both towns.
238
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
ISAAC MOSSOP
Wiconisco, Pa.
MAYERS FORMAN
Wiconisco, Pa.
W H. KISSINGER
Wiconisco, Pa.
SQUIRE — CHAS. H. HARMAN
Wiconisco, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REMKW 239
WHO'S WHO IN LYKENS
DAVID GRATZ
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Gratz is the only survivor, of the Simon Gratz ances-
try, living in this valley. He is a son of Edward Gratz. and
a grandson of Simon Gratz. His father, Edward Gratz, owned
and laid the Borough of Lykens out in lots as it is now. David
came to Lykens with his father in 1858 and has heen a constant
resident since that time. He has assisted in tiie many "ways
and means" incidental to developing the present town. The
Gratz people practically owned this section at one time, and
played a very important part in the early progressive develop-
ments. Gratz borough in the Lykens valley is named after its
founder, Simon Gratz, gi*andfather Of David.
HENRY KEISER
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Keiser was born in Gratz October 26, 1840. In the
spring of the year 1850 Mr. Keiser came to Lykens. and is
probably the oldest citizen of the Borough. The author knows
of no other person living here longer. When ^Ir. Keiser came to
Lykens there were about thirty log houses and only two (Irifts
at the mines. It was during the year 1850 that the first steam
engine came into the town. Mr. Keiser is a descendent of John
N. Hoffman, who was one of the very early pioneers of the
valley. In April 1861 he enlisted and served tlirongliout the
entire period of the war, taking part in thirty-two engagement.s.
He has been School Director of Wiconisco nine years. Lykens
one vear; has been assessor in Lvkens sixteen years. Uo ha.s
also served in employment thirty years lus sujiply (derk for thi»
local coal company. Mr. Keiser is a meml)er of tlie T. <^. <">. F.
for fifty-one years.
240
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
GEO. W. TROXELL
Lykens, Pa.
CHAS. SPEIKERMANN
Lykens, Pa.
J. M. MILLER
Lykens, Pa.
CHARLES COLES
Lykens, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL RE\IEAV .)4|
WILLIA:M IRVING
Lykens, Pa.
:\Ir. Irving, one of Lykens elderly and respected eitizens,
was born in Wilkes-Barre in the year 1841. He came to Lykens in
187-4 and entered the Bottling business, in which he engaged
until 1877 when he entered the hostelry business, conducting the
Valley House located at Main and Pine «ts. Tliis business he
sold in 1908 and retired. Mr. Irving was a member of tlic First
Defenders, enlisting on the 16th day of April. lS»il. He was
attached to the National Light Infantry. He delights in having
had the occasion to shake hands with President Lincoln. He
saw service in many important battles of the war and fortu-
nately was not injured. He is a member of llie organization
known as the First Defenders, who meet on April, 18, of each
year. Of this organization which originally numbered five hun-
dred and thirty members, there are to-day only about fifteen
left. Their meetings are of mutual discussion and a general
''get-together" character, and have been carried on since the
end of the civil war.
Mr. Irving is held in highest esteem by all who know liini.
He is known to nearly every person, man woman and child in
the town and his kindly appearance and .joll.v disjiosition have
won for him an enviable pedestal of local citizenship. He has
assisted and taken initiatives in many civic movements during
his career here, and withstanding his age, is about every day
with the alacrity of one many years his junior.
A. F. IIANNA
Lykens, Pa.
The author concedes that there are others, liut insists tliai
Mr. A. F. Hanna is one of the extraordinarly keen interest.'<|
citizens of the borough. Mr. Hanna has done much for the t«»\vn
of Lykens, and done so with a conscientious disposition and
self-sacrificing spirit. He is a son of the late K. C. Hanna
who for thirteen years was siiiierinfendent of the h»cal coal
company. To Mr. IIann;i. Hie aiith(.r publicly ext.'n.js his
242
LYKENS-WILLIAJVIS VALLEY HISTORY
A. F. HANNA
Lykens, Pa.
WILLIAM IRVING
Lykens, Pa.
A. BRUCE MORRIS
Lykens, Pa.
WILLIAM KAUDERMAN
Lykens, Pa.
DIliECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIKW 243
thanks for his unselfish spirit and valuable assistance in compli-
ation of this volume, • ' Lykens-Williams Valley History— Direc-
tory." He has served the "borough in the capacity of Council-
man for a number of years, and while at times being much hand-
icapped, has proven himself to be a well balanced legislator. Mr.
Hanna owns over one-half of the acreage of Lykens Borougli
and allows the water mains which supply the town with water,
to traverse his lands free of all charge. He is imown to nearly
eveiy citizen in the borough, and is respected with (luality
esteem. There are divers places where he is called "Coloner'
Hanna, and one should not be surprised if while walking a
thoroughfare in Philadelphia you should hear him hailed by his
many acquaintances as Colonel Hanna. To account here, of
his civic and community activities, we should not have sufficient
space.
CHARLES W. SNYDER
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Snyder is a native of Lykens, a descendent of early
settlers and a very highly respected citizen of the borough. He
has been an employee at the mines for 57 years, as a Safety
Inspector. Mr. Snyder has formed a habit of keeping a record
of important dates at the colliery as well as keeping a list of all
the men killed. The results of this habit is distributed in this
volume. He also installed the first telephone and first electric
door bell in Lykens.
GEORGE A. ROSIER
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Kosier, one of the successful and progressive busine.ss
men of Lykens, was born at Gratz. When a young boy his
family removed to Wieonisco where he worked in the mines a
number of years. In 1895 he began the Drayage business an<l
has built up a veiy profitable business. This business he still
conducts. In 1913 he entered the :\rusic busine.ss, and today
conducts an up-to-date music establishment. He has serve.l the
244
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
LOUIS WENTZLER
Lykens, Pa.
JOHN S. REIFF
Lykens, Pa.
CHAS. J. WITMER
Lykens, Pa.
W. H. HECKLER
Lykens, Pa.
LUliECTORY AND nCTUUIAl. REVIEW oi.'
Borough as a School Director and, while during his term as
such, was iustruineiitai in having music adopted as a branch of
the Lykens Public Schools. i\lr. Rosier is a director of tlie
Lykens Building and Loan Association and a veteran of tlie
world war. Connected with him in the present .Music House
business is his son Jonas. He is a descendent of Mr. Wilbam
Rosier, an early settler of the valley.
GEORGE W. PAE'FET
Lykens, Pa,
Mr. Parfet is a native of Lykens and one of it 's successful
business men. He was prominent in the organizati(jn of the
Lykens Business Men's Association and acted as duiirnian on
the very important committee which successfully l)rought about
decided changes in rail-road freight charges. Since ISilS Mr.
Parfet has been conducting a very heavy stocked and pr<tgr«*s-
sive mercantile business. He has served thr borough in the
capacity of Councilman and. was instrumental in various ehangt-s
which were essential to bettering the community geiu-rally.
Mr. Parfet enjoys the distinction of being a 32nd. degree ^hi.son.
He is a man of exceptional energy, thoroughly pi-ogn-ssive aiitl
a valuable asset to every movement designed to benefit the
Borough.
CHAS. A. HOFP
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Hoff is a son of S. B. Hotf, former I'rotlionotary of
York Coimty. He is a native of York (V)unty and ent.T.'d
business in Dauphin County first in .Aliddh'town in IS!).'), lb-
engaged in the Hardware business and in H'Ol n-moved to
Lykens, in which place he has since conducted Ids stor.'. Mr.
Hoff is one of Lykens successful citizens, and one who has al-
ways taken a keen interest in local developments, llr is a
graduate of Millersville State Normal Cb.ss of 1S!K{. Mr. HotT
has served the borough as School Dinn-tor over a pmod of
seventeen years. During this tim,. th. i-.d ^.-hool building
246
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Squire W. S. Young, Lykens, Pa.
R. J. Budd, Lykens, Pa.
Walter Freer, Lykens, Pa.
Geo. W. Eby, Lykens, Pa.
Chas A. Hoff, Lykens, Pa.
J. A. Bogar, Lykens, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW ^47
was remodeled and rated a First-Class High School of the state
He is a Director of the First National l-JanU and Manager of
the Lykens Savings Fund and Loan Corporation for the past
fifteen years. He has twice been elected Representative of the
County to the State Democratic Convention and in 1913 was
appointed Post Master which he still retains. During his career
as Post Master he has installed Free Delivery of mail and a
Star Rural Route. His receipts are also just a few points from
placing the local P. 0. on a second class basis. His civic and
community interest is largely manifested throughout the town.
WALTER E. SNYDER
Lykens, Pa.
Another well-known and successful business man here is
Walter E. Snyder. Mr. Snyder has been in the Jewelry busi-
ness for the past twenty-two years and has not only established
an enviable reputation as a thoroughly reliable business man,
but has developed a prosperous and successful business. He Is
a graduate Optometrist and is considered a local expert in that
line of business. Mr. Snyder has taken an unselfish interest
in all movements designed for the benefit of the community
and his keen foresight has been very well balance*! in many
cases. He assisted in making possible the now famous Lykens
Swimming Pool, He is an enthusiastic fan to the great out door
sports. Fraternally he is a member of several organizations
among which is Ashlar Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons.
JACOB A. BOGAR
9
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Bogar was born in Wiconisco in the year 187.3. hi tlu'
year 1892, he graduated from the local High School. L. H. S.
Since 1897 he has managed the large store of Cobh' and Sons
and has had and enjoyed a very successful career. He is nn
enterprising citizen of the Borough .iti.l lias served as scIum.!
director for a number of years.
248
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
E. LEROY KEEN
Lykens, Pa.
WALTER E. SNYDER
Lykens, Pa.
FORREST S. HENSEL
Lykens, Pa.
THE LATE THOMAS A. HENSEL
Lykens, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 049
JOHN S. REIFF
Lykens, Pa.
The name R'eiff, iimiicdialcly suggests l.yk.-iis. Mv. Uciff,
who is engaged in the Undertaking-FurniUiie luisiiicss since
. the early history of the town, is a native of the JJon.iigh and onu
of it's very sincere and progressive citizens. In the year 1!)0!),
he associated with himself in business, Mr. .1. I), lldi ami to-day
this partnership have and conduct the largest l"iiniiture .-stal)-
lishment in upper Dauphin County. :\Ir. l^eilf is a man of re-
putable character, very sincere and enterprising, lie has been
of valuable assistance in locating numnfacturing concerns in
the valley, has served the Borough as Councilman for a nnmlM-r
of years and served Dauphin County as Siiei-itf one term. 1 It-
has always taken a deep interest in the develoi)ment of the town
and has contributed nnicli toward the same.
GEORGE W. TROXEL, Chief Jiurycss
Lykens, Pa.
When the citizens of the Borough of Lykens elected .Mr.
Troxel to serve the position of chief executive nf tlie liorough.
they certainly made an elegant selection. ^Ir. Tro.xcl came t<»
Lykens about thirty-five years ago, having- been jjorn in Ldval-
ton, just four miles west of the borough. For tlie past twenty-
five years he has successfully conducted a iiiddei-n ami np-t«)-
date shoe repairing establishment. He is a business man of in-
disputable calibre, and Lykens will be managed in a busine.s.s
manner of the right style. The Chief Burgess strongly protests
against Auto-speeding and has declared liimseU" to rid the town
of this very dangerous menace. He is fair and just and exer-
cises very keen judgment. It is well to assume that liykens
will certainly progress under the regime of a business-nian-
mayor.
ARTTTFR BRUCE Mol.'b'js
liYKRNS, Pa.
Arthur Bruce Morris, born in Lykens. .«<on oj" Wiliiam II. and
Martha J. Morris, (nee Minuicin li;is been a residei-f -.1 I vl.-ns
250
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
SAMUEL E. DEITRICH
Lykens, Pa.
JAS. D. HELT
Lykens, Pa.
Lvkcns Ps
REV. W. C. ESBENSHADE, A. M.
DR. J. N. BAKER
Lykens. Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 251
practically all his life save two years when his parents resided
at Greensburg. Was a pupil of the Lykens Public School until
he graduated from the grammar grade when he entered tlie
employ of Samuel B. Coles & Son, publishers of the Lykens
Standard in which office he started in the capacity Df "devil."
After eight years he became the ]\lanaging Editor of the paper
and is serving in that capacity to this time
Mr. Morris is well-known thruout the cntiie Ipper Kud
of Dauphin County. He was connected with various organ-
izations as their chairman of various events held at tihs place,
among them being the Home-Coming Celebration of the Worbl
War Veterans, held under the direction of Washington ("amp.
No. 238, P. O. S. of A., of which organization he is a Past Pres-
ident. June 26, 1919, he entered the service of the Fnited
States in the World War and after eight months of service
attained the rank of Sergeant-Major, being discharged from
the service, March 1st, 1920.
CHARLES M. COLES
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Coles was born in Lykens, Pa., and is a son of the late
Samuel B. Coles, pioneer of newspaperdom in this valley. Mr.
Coles attended the Lykens High School, from which he entered the
South Broad Street Conservatory of Music, Philadelphia, grad-
uating from that place in 1890. For twenty years following
he taught music in and around Lykens and Wiconisoo; in 1010
associating himself with his father in the newspaper business,
publishing the Lykens Standard. :\lr. Coles upon the death of
his father on September 26, 1916 continued to publish the paper
and since that time has made very rapid and progressive
strides. He has added to the .iob printing department more
modern machinery, greatly faciliating himself for more output.
In 1921 he erected a modern, model printing plant, one not U>
be seen elsewhere between Harrisburg and Pott.ville. of whieh
the community is avcH proud.
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
HARRY FORMAN
Lykens, Pa.
LEWIS A. HOFFMAN
Lykens, Pa.
CHARLES L. BAUM
Lykens, Pa.
GEO. W. PARFET
Lykens, Pa.
DIKECTORY AND PICTORIAL REMKW .,-0
CHARLES J. PRICE
Lykens, Pa,
iMr. Price, the present District State Coal lusi)ector, \va.s
born in Wales.. He came to America at the age of five years
and engaged in and about the mines in Tioga County, until
1875, when he came to Lykens, from which time h,- has been a
resident. January 1, 1906 he was appointed District Mine
Lispector, and enjoys the distinction of being the only Dauphin
Countian to have ever attained that position. He is a director
of the Miners' Deposit Bank and is a valuable assistant to all
local civic and community enterprises.
CHARLES SPIEKERMANN ,
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Spiekermann was born in Ashland, Schuylkill County.
He entered the hotel business in Minersville, coming to Lyken.s
about twelve years ago. After a brief absence he again re-
turned to Lykens in 1917 as proprietor of the Comiiiercial
Hotel, in wliicli business he is still engaged. .Mr. Spiekermann
is a practical hotel manager having gained liis experience in
Minersville, Reading and Harrisburg where he lias engageil in
this business. His parents emigrated from Germany in 1S82
locating in Schuylkill County.
LOUIS WENTZLER
Lykens, Pa,
Mr. Wentzler was born in Hanover, ]\ruenden, Germany in
1869 and came to Lykens in 1895. He engaged in the bn'wery
business on South Street which he purchased from the Hun-k
Estate. In 1907 Mr. Wentzler took over the entin' cMntroJ «>f
the brewery and since then has been the sole owner and man-
ager. He has made many im])rovements ami has (M|uipitnl his
plant with most modern and uj) I0 date ni;icliin<T\ . .Mr. W-nt
zler served the Borough twelve years hs a inrnil.er of .-ouni-il
and is affiliated with the Elks iiiid loe;il onln- ..I' K. < ' < ». \|.
254 LYKBNS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
CHARLES J. WITHER
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Witmer, who conducts the Hotel Glen, was born in
Lykens Valley in 1876, He entered the hotel business in Lykens
sixteen years ago. He is a member of the L. 0. 0. M. and of
the local Fire Department. Mr. Witmer is considered one of
the best wing shots in the valley, and not many years ago was
recognized as a state-wide contestant in that diversion.
WILLIAM H. HECKLER
Lykens, Pa.
Mr, Heckler was born in Tremont, Schuylkill County, in
1869. He has been in the hotel business twenty one years,
coming to Lykens in 1905 and conducting the Union House
Hotel, since that time. He has served the borough as Council-
man and has assisted the various movements made for bettering
local conditions and the community as a whole. He is a member
of the local lodge of L, 0. O, M, and of the B. P, 0. E.
FORREST S. HENSEL
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Hensel was born in Lykens in the year 1890, grad-
uating from the local high school in 1908 he then entered
Lebanon Valley College, graduating 1912 with an A. B. Degree.
During his spare time up until 1912 he assisted in the conduct-
ing of the Hensel Clothing House owned then by his father. Upon
the death of his father in 1921 he became general manager of
that concern. He is an earnest supporter of civic pride and
sports.
GEORGE W. EBY
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Eby was born in Perry County, coming to Lykens, in
1895, where he has engaged in the wholesale confectionery
business since that time. He is a director of the First National
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 255
Bank, of the Wicouisco Tei. & Tel. Company and of the Lykens
Motor Car Co. He is also a director of the Gratz Fair Asso.-i-
ation. Mr. Eby has been v^ery successful in business due to
his keen insight in general management and is among the Bor-
ough's most highly respected citizens.
CHARLES LLOYD BAUM
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Baum, sou of early settlers (Iloltzman family i. was
born in Gratz, He is a son of Mrs. Sarah Baum of 414 Pine
Street. At an early age Mr. Baum developed a talent for oil
painting and his work has been recognized by some of the most
severe critics in art circles. If one were to visit his studio,
one would be very much taken with the wonderful work of Mr.
Baum's brush. He is a highly respected citizen of the Borougli
and is entirely deserving of special mention along his line of
art.
SAMUEL E. DEITRICH
Lykens, Pa.
One of the very progressive and familiar citizens of Lykens
is Mr. Samuel E. Deitrich. He is a native of this community
and has at all times been instrumental in and assisted the
many improvement steps of the present borough. By trade he
is an accomplished Tailor having put in thirty-two years at
that business. At present he is connected with the Hensel
Clothing House, wdiere he has been during the course of his pro-
fession for the past seventeen years. Tn 1890 he graduated
from the Wicouisco High School. Fraternally he is connected
with several local organizations, among which is the Knight.s
of Pj^thias of which lodge he is Degree Ma.ster. His keen
opinion has been sought by many in regard to community and
lodge affairs.
WALTER E. FREER
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Freer came to Lykens in the year 1004 from New
York Citv and commenced business under the name of The
256 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Manhattan Supply Company. He has conducted this business
ever since and has enjoyed excellent success. He has always
been an exponent to any movement for bettering the community
and is a highly respected citizen of the borough.
LEWIS A. HOFFMAN
Lykens, Pa,
There is only one Restaurant-Soda Fountain establishment
in Lykens, and Mr. Hoffman is the proud owner. He is a very
tactful business man and enjoys a very successful business.
Lewis, as we all know him, has been born and reared in Lykens
and a graduate of our local High School. He entered business
in December of the year 1914, and since that time has acquired
the old Garman property in which his business and residence
is now located at 619 Main Street. He has always assisted in
the various civic and community enterprises from time to time,
and was a very valuable asset to the success of the Lykens Dia-
mond Home Coming celebration.
^o
JAMES D. HELT
Lykens, Pa.
Among the reputable and successful j'oung business men
of Lykens that have had a profitable business here, there are
perhaps none deserving of more special mention than Mr. J.
D. Helt. Mr. Helt was born in Jackson Township. He entered
in business in Lykens in the year 1909 identifying himself with
Mr. J. S. R'eiff in the furniture and undertaking business. His
rapid strides have only been the direct residt of careful methods
and keen decisions. To-day he is a director of several of the
Valley's largest enterprises. He has been elected a school di-
rector of Lykens Borough in 1922 and is a member of the Blue
Lodge, Masonic Order.
DR. J. NEVIN BAKER
Lykens, Pa.
Born in Lewistown, Mr. Baker came to Lykens in 1893,
entering the practice of his profession. Dentistry. He is a
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 257
graduate of the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. Dr.
Baker has sei-^ed the borough as School Director for a numljer
of years, and has always taken a keen interest in all civic enter-
prises. He is at present President of the Miners Deposit Bank,
of which he has been a director a number of years; President
of the Building and Loan association and one of the organ-
izers of the Williams Valley Bank at Williamstown. He is
one of the higlily respected citizens of the Borough, and known
to practically everybody in the Valley.
THOMAS A. HENSEL
Lykbns, Pa.
Mr. Hensel, who for many years was one of the familiar
faces to be seen in Ljdfens, until 1885 worked in the mines,
from which he engaged in clerking in a general clothing store,
later purchased the same and in 1891 began business fur him-
self. Through real perseverance and business tactics, Mr. Hen-
sel arose to the unique distinction of the biggest Retail cloth-
ier of the Upper End. He was a son of the late John and
Susan Hensel and was very prominent in all civic and com-
munity affairs of not only Lykens but the entire valley. Mr.
Hensel died at his home, Lykens, December 14. 1021, following
a stroke of paralysis. He was aged 68 years.
REV. W. C. ESBENSHADE, A. M.
Lykens, Pa.
Mr. Esbenshade was born and reared near Strasburg, Lan-
caster County, where he obtained his early education in the
local High School. In the year 1897, he graduated from the
Millersville State Norman School, receiving his state cortiticnto
in 1899. He is a graduate of the Perkionian Seminary, r.'iuis-
Taurg, Pa., 1901; Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pa., A. li. 1905.
receiving his A. M. Degree at that place in 1917. He was n--
ceived in the Philadelphia Methodist Conference in 1905, wliere
he obtained his Theological training. In 1920, lie was appoinL-d
pastor of the Grace M. E. Church at this place.
258
Li'KENS-WILLlAJMS VALLEY HISTORY
JACOB M. MILLER
Lykens, Pa.
^Ir. ]\liller was born in Lykens November 18, 1868 ; he
attended the Wiconisco High School. Mr. Miller entered busi-
ness in Lykens about 1890 conducting a general store and con-
tinuing in this business up imtil 1919. He has been a Notary
Public since 1903 and representative of a number of fire in-
surance companies since 1903, Tax Collector of Lykens Borough
inl921 and Treasurer of the Borough about eighteen years.
He is Treasurer of the Saving Fund and Loan Corporation
since 1908 and Treasurer of the I. 0. 0. F. about fifteen years.
In 1903 he began business with general real estate in and about
the town and valley and to-day is counted an able authority
on that subject. Fraternally he is a member of Ashlar Lodge
No. 570 F. & A. "M. also of the ^lodern Woodmen of America.
The Late S. B. COLES
Lykens, Pa.
HENRY KEISER
Lykens, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL RKVIIAV
259
CHARLES SNYDER
Lykens, Pa.
GEO. A. KOSIER
Lykens. Pa.
A. H. ROWE
Lcyalton, Pa.
JOSEPH SHOLLEY
Lykens P«.
260 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
WHO'S WHO IN ELIZABETHVILLE
HAROLD L. ROMBERGER
ELIZABETHVILLE, Pa,
Mr. Romberger is a native of Elizabethville. "He is associ-
ated with his father, D. W. Romberger, in the Hide and Tallow
business. He is also a Director of and Manager of the Eliza-
bethville Silver Black Fox Co. Inc. At the election in 1921 he
was chosen Chief Burgess of the borough by a very large major-
ity. He is a member of the protective department of the
Penna. State Game Commission. Harold is a 3'oung man of
Elizabethville, but one of its very progressive citizens. He is
married and has two children.
C. H. KNISELY
Elizabethville, Pa.
Mr. Knisely came to Elizabethville in 1896 as principal of
the Public Schools. He taught school until the year 1899 when
he resigned to become JManager of the Swab Wagon Company,
of which he is President and Manager to-day. He is a member
of the Elizabethville School Board and a Director of the First
National Bank. Mr. Knisely is Superintendent of the Lutheran
Sunday School and an ardent supporter of all good wholesome
ideas making for a better community.
DANIEL W. ROMBERGER
Elizabethville, Pa.
Daniel W. Romberger was born in Lykens Township, Dau-
phin County, Pa., February 23, 1870, a son of Samuel and
Sarah (Brewer) Romberger. He was brought up as a tanner
and farmer, attended public school but stopped at an early age
to work in his father's tannery. In 1883 he came to Elizabeth-
ville with his father; on December 5th. 1891 was married at
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
261
HAROLD L. ROMBERGER
Elizabethville, Pa.
C. H KNISELY
Elizabethville. Pa.
THEO. E. MILLER
Elizabethville, Pa.
HARRY H. WEAVER
Elizabethville. Pa.
262 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Elizabethvilie to JSadie A. Gottshall of Pillow, Pa.; in 1892
went into partnership wdtli his father in the hide and tallow
business ; in this business he is still engaged ; is also owner of
the rendering plant and is owner of the Fox Ranch located on
his farm. Mr. Romberger holds one-fourth of the stock of the
animals of this ranch. Mr. Romberger in a very successful
business man of Elizabethvilie and has done a lot for the town
and its citizens. To Mr. and Mrs. Romberger five children
were born, all of them living: Melvin C, Harold L., Lawrence
U., Faye 0. and Daniel W. Jr. Mr. Romberger 's wife died at
Elizabethvilie, June 11, 1917. He has at all times assisted in
civic and community enterprises and is one of the very re-
spected citizens of Elizabethvilie.
HARVEY M. MILLER
Elizabethville, Pa.
Miller, Harvey M., native of Elizabethvilie, son of James
jMiller, who was for fifty-one years secretary and treasurer of
the Lykens Valley Mutual Fire Insurance Co., the oldest cor-
poration in the valley. Spent fifteen years as rate clerk for
various trunk lines of some of the larger railroad centers of the
East. Has contributed at various times to popular magazines,
mostly humorous verse. Author of three Pennsylvania-German
books of prose and poetry and contributed under the nom de
plume "Solly Hulsbuck" to more than twenty weekly news-
papers published in dialect-speaking counties of the state. De-
clared by Prof. Richards before the German Society of John
Hopkins University to be the most prolific dialect writer in Penn-
sylvania. Author of Harmonies of the Heart, a book of sentimen-
tal verse, and of Poems of Childhood, which was revised by
Prof. H. G. Dornheim in a thesis delivered at a literary function
at Temple University and declared to be the equal of Steven-
son's "Child's Garden of Verses."
Mr. MiUer was one of the organizers of Elizabethvilie 's
Board of Trade and served it as secretary, when he also helped
to organize the Valley Shoe Co. He was also instrumental in
organizing the Bolton Rug Mills. Both are among the town's
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
26a
substantial industries. In the general insurance business for
some years, was a member of the building committee for the
erection of the tine new office building of the Lykens Valb'v
Mutual Fire Insurance Co., and on the death of his father in
1920 succeeded him as secretary and treasurer of the e<iiiipaii\-.
THE LATE SAMUEL B. ROMBER:(iKK
Elizabethville, Pa.
Samuel B. Romberger, was born in Lykens to\vMsln|. Dau-
phin county. Pa., August 9, 1845. He was a s..u of Dan.el and
Hannah (Bergstesser) Komberger. Daniel Ron.berger,, fath. r
of Samuel B., was born in Lykens townshi,.. Dauphu, eount^-^
Pa., February 19, 1816. He was brought up as a farmer and
was married in his native place. Pie settled ou a lar.n .n \N ash-
ington township in 1854, and later located on . tarm .n 1 ery.
burg where he died Jidy 20, 1882. IT.s w.te .\u.\ u. Llu-a-
2tJ4 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
bethville in 1889. Samuel B. E-omberger was of German des-
cent on his father's side, and on his mother's side Scotch-
Irish. He attended school in his native place until he was nine
years old, when his family removed to Washington township.
His education was finished in the common schools there. In
his seventeenth year he began an apprenticeship at tanning
with Isaiah ]\Iatters, at Uniontown, Pa. He served three years,
during which time he received $175, which was $40 in excess
of the contract. He worked at his trade a year and a half in
Schuylkill County, Pa. He then formed a partnership with
Reuben Weiser, and established a tanyard at Green Briar,
Northumberland County, and continued in business there two
and a half years, at the end of this time he bought the tanyard
known as Stines plant, above Gratz. He operated this plant
for fourteen years, having sold the one at Green Briar. In the
spring of 1883, Mr. Romberger disposed of his property in
Lykens township and located at Elizabethville, where he at
first operated a tannery, but later relinquished the tanning and
dealt in hides and tallow. In 1892 he took into partnership
two of his sons and soon the firm had branches at Carlisle,
Pottstown, Wilks-Barre, Tyrone and Shamokin and in 1910 a
new one started at Harrisburg under the name of S. B. Rom-
berger 's Sons Co. Mr. Romberger was active outside of his
own business, for he was a sincere promoter of the growth and
prosperity of his town. He and his brother John purchased
the land between Callowhill St. and Church St. and laid it out
in lots and sold them, as a natural result the town began to
grow. i\Ir. Romberger was President of the Lj'-kens Valley Mu-
tual Ins. Company for more than thirty years, one of its organ-
izers, and for five years Vice President of the First National
Bank. He helped organize Maple Grove Cemetary Association,
and for fifteen years was a director for the Lykens Valley Tele-
phone and Telegraph Co. and for years was prominent in the
affairs of the Water Co. He was a consistent member of the
Evangelical Church. His children are Daniel W., Penrose C,
Ira P., Elba and Ella. He died Friday March 11, 1922, aged
76 years, at the home of his daughter. Mrs. A. W. Krebs, 1838
North Second Street. Harrisburg. Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL RKVIKW
265
JAMES E. LENTZ
Elizabethville, Pa.
HARVEY M. MILLER
Elizabethville, Pa.
DR. E. L. STEEVER
Elizabethville, Pa.
A. M. ROMBERQER
Elizabethville. Pa.
2(j(j LYKENa-WlLLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
HARRY II. A^EA\'ER
Elizabethville^ Pa.
Mr. Weaver is a native of Elizabeth vilie where he has
resided all his life.
At the age of 12 he became a telegraph operator and took
charge of the Western Union Telegraph otilee then in his father's
store. Afterwards took charge of*the Freight and Ticket Office
of the P. R. R. at Elizabethville.
He was connected with a number of industries of Eliza-
bethville among which are the following:
In 1875 he organized the Victor Printing Co. which he
owned. He printed a number of ])ooks for the novelty trade
as well as the first newspaper for the town a monthly known as
the Owl afterwards The Monthly Independent. Then printed
The Weekly Democrat for Capt. J. A. Ettinger in 1879 which
he afterwards continued as The Weekly Independent.
He was one of the organizers of the Elizabethville AVater
Co. also of the Reliance Hose Co. No. 1. of which he is now
and has been the Treasurer from the time of its organization.
In 1885 he organized the Lykens Telegraph and Telephone
Co. of which he was General ^Manager until the same was mer-
ged with the United Telephone Co. He built the first teleplione
lines in the Upper End of Dauphin Co. and Western Schuyl-
kill Co.
In 1887 he entered the firm of Fred W^eaver & Son, General
Merchants and Weaver & Son distillers who succeeded W-'eaver
& Gilbert originally organized in 1873.
He organized the First National Bank of Elizabethville,
Pa. in 1900 of which he was a director for many years.
He is at present the owner of Weaver & Son dealers in
Coal and Merchandise and is connected with the Rossman-
Weaver Co. and the Weaver apparel Co. who have seven shirt
factories in operation — Elizabethville, Berrysburg, Enders, Rife
and Klingerstown.
He built many hoiises for the Avorking men payable on the
building and loan plan at cost which enabled tliem to own their
own homes.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 2t)l
A. M. ROMBERGER
EUZABETUVILLE, Pa.
Mr. R'omberger was born in Northumberland County near
Pillow and has been a resident of this valley for the past thirty
four years. He entered the General .Merchandise business in
Elizabethville in 1900 and has enjoyed a very successful career.
He is a director of the First National Bank at Elizabethville
and Millersbnrg, President of the local water company and a
trustee of the Schuylkill County Seminary.
JAMES E. LEXTZ
Elizabethville, Pa.
Born in Washington Township, one mile East of Eliziilietli-
ville — 1886 moved to Mifflin Township, near Berrysburg — LSi)»j
moved to Elizabethville, entering produce busines.s. ]S5)!>
entered the wholesale Tobacco business, sold the same in l!M»l
and went on the road for the Reid Tobacco Co. of .Milton. In
1914 became a candidate for Recorder of Deetls and Clei-k of
the Orphans Court of Dauphin County, elected and served
four years in that capacity. Throughout the period of the war.
Mr. Lentz was a valuable asset to the Valley Red Cross chapters
and assisted very ably in all local movements, incidental to
successfully promoting the war. lie was instrumental in hav-
ing a health centre in Elizabethville. In 1920 ^Ir. Lent/, en-
tered the Automobile business which he still i)rogres.sively eon-
ducts. He is connected with various enterprises, among which
President of the Williams Valley Hospital, locateil at Williams-
town, Pa. He is also Chairman of the Dauphin County Kcpuh-
lican Committee since 1931. Mr. Lentz is a very sincere citizen
of Elizabethville and has always proven to be ready to back up
anything that is designed to benefit the community. He j.s
married and has two daughters.
268
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
WARREN J. DANIELS
Elizabethville^ Pa,
Mr. Daniels is a native of
which being a Director of the
Elizabethville, having been born
and reared there. He is a
descendant of the early set-
tlers, (Daniels family). In
1915 he was elected County
Surveyor of Dauphin County
and served in that capacity
one term. Mr. Daniels was
instrumental in having the
park and playground estab-
lished in Elizabethville, inso-
far as he made preliminary
examination of the grounds
and presented favorable sug-
gestive maps. During the con-
scription period he was presi-
dent of the Local Board Num-
ber 3, Selective Draft, U. S.
He is connected with several
commercial houses, among
Elizabethville Water Company.
EARNEST L. STEEVER
Elizabethville, Pa.
Mr. Steever is the only druggist in Elizabethville, where
he purchased the business of J. C. Stroup the former druggist.
In 1909 he graduated from the Wiconisco High School, from
whence he entered the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, grad-
uating in 1914. He came to Elizabethville in 1916 and opened
business, from which time he has been \evy successful. Locally
he is a member of the Park Commission and is a very pro-
gressive citizen.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW ^W
WHO S WHO lx\ WILLIAMSTOWX
FRANK M. SHADLE
WiLLIAMSTOWN, Pa.
Mr, Sliadle was born at Loyalton and when a small boy
removed with his family to Wiliiainstown. His first business
venture was in the baking business, which he conducted for
five years. He has been a Justice of the Peace at Williauis-
town for thirteen years. At the Primary Election in 191'J Mr.
Shadle polled a very heavy- vote in the valley for Dauphin
County Commissioner on the Republican ticket. He served as
Foreman of the State Highway Department for six yeai-s, hav-
ing charge of the roads between Lykens and the Schuylkill
County line. Under his administration many improvements
"were made, among which was the Row Hollow, east of Wicon-
isco. He is a director of the Fairview Cemetary Association
and first Vice President of the same. Also the manager of the
Palace Theatre since 1907 and in 1921 was elected Chief Bur-
gess of Williamstown.
J. B. LESHER
Williamstown, Pa,
Mr. Lesher is a native of Berks County. lie came to
Williamstown entering business on the site now occupied by
J. W. Durbin and Son, general store. Selling to :\Ir. Durbin
later he left the community for a few years. Upon returning
he engaged in the management of the New Era Cash Store for
a short while. In 1908 he entered the mannfaoturinir busiiit>ss.
which today is known as the Unrivalled Hosiery Mills. Later
he built a branch to this business at Tower City. In 191:^ he
promoted the Best Stock underwear plant at Tower City and
at present is operating the mills at W^illiamstown, Tower City
and Mahanoy City, all the work being shipped to William.s-
town, finished there and placed on the market. Mr. Lesher
Personally superintends and manages these concerns. H- has
270
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
FRANK M SHADLE
Williamslown, Pa.
J. B. LESHER
Williamstown, Pa.
CYRUS DONLEY
Williamstown, Pa.
J. B. WHITWORTH
Williamstown, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 071
served the Borough as a member of Council one term. Ho is
President of the Miners and IMerchants Bank at Williainstown.
Director of the Berks County Trust Company and lumuMdiis
other manufacturing houses. For a number of years he has
been Sunday School Superintendent of the loi-al Methodist
Church.
J. B. WHITWUKTll
WlLLIAMSTOWN, Pa.
Mr. Whitworth is a native of \Yest Virginia, coming into
the Valley and locating at Tower City in 1!)U. In l!)!.") he
came to Williamstown and identified himself as Superintendent
of the Lykens Valley Light and Power Company. He is a
graduate of the Bliss Electrical college, Washington. D. C.
a director and Secretary of the Miners and Merchants Hank
and a member of the Board of Government, local Civic Club.
Mr. Whitworth is one of the organizers and the largest j) resent
operator taking coal from the Wiconisco Creek in this valley.
CYRUS DONLEY
Williamstown, Pa.
Mr. Donley was born in Lebanon County. IK' i-anie to
Williamstown in 1868. He is one of the early developers of
the community and has assisted in each and every movement
bettering the same. He served the Borough in ("ouneij t'or
tvrelve years and as Borough Treasurer for two trniis. He
served a term as Dauphin County Mercantile Ap|)raiser ami
is a Director of the Miners and Merchants Bank of tliis town.
Mr, Donley has been in business in Williamstown for the past
thirty years, and is one of the community's iiKKst higlily re-
spected citizens.
LANE F. RUBENDALL
Williamstown, Pa.
Mr. Rubendall is a native of Williamstown an<l a deseen<l-
ant of early settlers. He is a graduate of the loeal llii;li
School and a very earnest supporter of sports. He has sened
272
LYKENS-WILLIAJMS VALLEY HISTORY
JNO. N. SNYDER
Williamstown, Pa.
WILLIAM M. GROFF
Williamstown, Pa.
WILLIAM BLANNING
Williamstown, Pa.
DR. J. W. SHIPE, D.C.
Williamstown, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 073
Williams Township as tax collector since 1910 and clerk of the
Township Road District about nine years. During the Twin-
County League activities Mr. Rubendall was the official pub-
licity Manager. He is a very highly respected citizen of Will-
iamstown and with his acute physical handicap has been very
successful in the various enterprises he introduced making for
his support.
WILLIAM M. GROFF
WiLLIAMSTOWN, Pa.
Mr. Groff was born in Columbia, Pa. Sixteen y«.'ars ago
he began his career in the banking business and since that time
has been Cashier of the Columbia Trust Company, Central
National Bank of Columbia, Treasurer of the Commercial Trust
Company, Harrisburg, and at present is Cashier of the Minei-s
and Merchants Bank, Williamstown. He entered the business
in Harrisburg in the year 1916, coming to Willianistown in
1920. Mr. Groff is a Director of the Variety Corner Store, Inc.
He is also a very interested member of the Twin-County League
and a real supporter of the national sports.
J. N. SNYDER
Williamstown, Pa.
Mr. Snyder was born at Loyalton of an okl line family of
early settlers in the Valley. In 1898 he came to Williamstown
and in 1915 entered the automobile business, being the present
Ford distributor of that community. He is also at present a
member of the Borough Council, and has served the Borough
for a number of years in the capacity of Treasurer. Mr. Snyder
is at present the Republican Committeeman of this borough, and
with other county. offices has also served ;is M.-n-hantih' Ap-
praiser for one terra.
274
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
WM. O. ROWE
Williamstown, Pa.
WM. D. KEEN
Dayton
LANE F. RUBENDALL
Williamstown. Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW .^7;;
WHO'S WHO IN TOWER CITY
CHARLES M. KAUFFMAN
Tower City, Pa.
Mr. Kauifman is one of Tower City's successful aud pro-
gressive business men. Born in Llewellyn, he entered the retail
store business in Tower City in 1885. In 1891 he helped to organ-
ize and develope the Williams Valley Railroad and was elected
its first President and General Manager. January 22nd. 1!I02
he was instrumental in organizing the Tower City Natioiud
Bank and elected its first president, which position he still
holds. In 1904, Mr. Kauffman assisted in the organization of
the Williams Valley Bank at Williamstown and was the fii"st
secretary of the Board. In the year 1900 he helped organize u
very important community necessity, water company, and is
still president of the same. In 1896 Mr. Kauffman established
the Green Wood Cemetery a short distance south-east of town,
which he still owns, and which is rated among the very finest bur-
ial grounds in the valley. Mr. Kauffman is a member of ami Past
Master of Swatara Lodge No. 267 P. A. M. of Tremont. He is
a large real estate OAvner in the valley and a sincere exponent
of civic pride.
H. S. SNYDER
Tower City, Pa.
Mr. Snyder was born in Center County, and came to the
Lykens- Williams Valley in September 1917. as chief clerk of
the Pennsylvania Railroad at Lykens, Pa. .Mr. Snyder wliiK-
serving in this capacity displayed a keen interest in the com-
munity civics, being one of the developers of the famous
Lj^kens Swimming Pool. In 1920 he entered the furnitur.' and
general house furnishing business in Tower City. He is a ^rad
uate of the Springs Mills Higli School. Center County, class ..f
1898.
276
LYKENS-AVILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
W. F. JONES
Tower City. Pa.
H. T. CALLEN
Tower City, Pa.
0. M. KAUFFIVIAN
Tower City, Pa.
H. S. SNYDER
Tower City, Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
277
WILLIAM F. JONES
To\^^R City, Pa.
^ Born in Shamokin, Mr. Jones came to the Lykens Valley in
1871. He located first in Lykens, engaging in general merchan-
dise in the building now occupied by W. IL Cooper's garage.
He later removed to Wiconisco, from there to AVilliams-
town and from there to Tower City, each time and in each place
engaging in the retail business. IMr. Jones is the present Chief
Burgess of Tower City and the oldest man occupying that pos-
ition in the valley and second to the oldest in Pennsylvania.
He was one of the incorporators of the Boroughs of AVilliams-
town and Tower City, a Director of the Williams Valley Bank.
Wllliamstown, and was President of the Tower City School
Board, at the time of the erection of the new building.
H. T. CALLEN
Tower City, Pa.
]Mr. Callen is a native of Tower City and on January 1,
1922, became Postmaster of that place. He was Secretary of
District Number 5, Selective Service Board located at Pottsvilie.
during the war. He served two years as Traveling Auditor of
the Bureau of Investigation. Penns^dvania State An<lilor-Oen-
ral's Department. Mr. Callen served the Borough in the capac-
ity of clerk for nineteen years, twelve years ehief clerk at Brook-
side Collier}', and has been a bona fide exponent of local civic
and community pride.
W. F. KNECHT
Tower City, Pa.
Mr. Knecht was born in Pottsvilie and canif to Tower City
in 1878, entering the Baking business. In ISOS \w established
and began publishing the West Schuylkill Herald. pn-siMit
weekly paper of Tower City, of which he is sole owner. lie is
Vice-President of the Tower City National Bank, a memb.T of
the I. 0. 0. F., and of the Swatara Lodge F. & A. M. He has
served the Borough in the capacity of Scliool Director for a
number of years.
278 LYKENS-WILLIAAIS VALLEY HISTUKY
J. B. W ATKINS
Tower City, Pa.
Mr. Watkins is a native of Tower City, having been born
and reared in the Borough. He is a descendant of early settlers
and one of the town's successful business men. In 1895 he
entered the wholesale confectionery business which he still con-
ducts. He is a director of the Tower City National Bank, which
he assisted in organizing and is recognized as an exponent of
local civic pride.
E. H. KAUFFMAN
Tower City, Pa.
Mr. Kauffman is a native of Tower City, being a descend-
ant of the Kauffman family who played such an important part
in the development of the Borough ; at present he conducts the
Kauffman General Store, which was begun by his father, and
which is one of the oldest establishments of its kind in the town.
He is a strong supporter of all civic and community enterprises
and has supported all local movements tending toward the
betterment of the coraniunitv.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
L'79
HONOR ROLL OF THE VALLP]Y-EACH TUWN
SEPARATE
Names of Citizens Who Served in the Great World War
{Note) In compiling tlie following list of nauu's, great
■care was taken to avoid errors and give as near as possible an
accurate roll. Should some names not appear it is not the
fault of the compiler since three months of seaix-li against vari-
ous handicaps were entailed in its compilation, notwithstaiuling
which this list is complete to the best of my knowledge and
belief. J. A. 11.
Roscoe Blyler
Earle Hotl'man
^lorris Hartman
Norman Daniel
Charles Daniels
Perry AVillard
Harry Zerfing
jMarlin Hoffman
Ray Coleman
Oeorge Kissinger
Fred Kissinger
Thomas Umholtz
Oeorge Sitlinger
Foster Coleman
John Welker
Allen Shoffstall
Harry AVelker
William Smeltz
.Walter Raimer
Henry Ferree
John Sitlinger
George Koppenhaver
Ralph Rotharmel
James Koppenhaver
Gratz
Charles Shade
William Steely
Benjamin Evitts
Joel Daniel
Elmer Clark
Blair Schiuiiiky
Harry Folk
Carlos Daiiii'l
Ralph Witmei-
Albert Zerling
Isaiah Schminky
Daniel Smeltz
Ray Snyder
Channeey Solada
Earl Dietrich
Guy Klinger
Lewis Slieil)
Charles Kopjieiihaver
Harry Clamle I'mholtz
Earle l\eed
Homer Stine
IMark Stine
II(mier rmlioltz
JjU'iil) Shaih'
280 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
MiLLERSBURG
AUeman, George Millersbiirg, Pa.
Barnhart, Earl C Millersbiirg, Pa.
Bashoar, Carl Millersbiirg, Pa.
Bender, Chas. E Millersburg, Pa.
Bender, Robert 1912 Brown St., Phila. Pa.
Blasser, Kay M Millersburg, Pa.
Blasser, Walter J Noblesville, Ind.
Bordner, Earl G Millersburg, Pa.
Bowman, S. S Millersburg, Pa.
Bowman, Howard Millersburg, Pa.
Boyer, C. E Millersburg, Pa.
Bradenbaugh, W. B ^lillersbiirg, Pa.
Brow^n, Palmer Millersburg, Pa.
Brown, Earle R Liverpool, Pa. R. D. 1
Buffington, George Millersburg, Pa.
Buyer, Dr. B. M Millersburg, Pa.
Chubb, Jacob Millersburg, Pa.
Deibler, Walter Paradise, Pa.
Doney, Robert Millersburg, Pa.
Dreibelbis, Harry Millersburg, Pa.
Dressier, John Millersburg, Pa.
Erieg, Harry L Millersburg, Pa.
Etzweiler, John Millersburg, Pa.
Etzweiler, Arthur W Dauphin, Pa. R. D, 1
Eves, Dr. P. AV 1810 State St., Harrisburg,' Pa.
Feagley, Albert F Paxton, Pa.
Forney, G, AA^ Millersburg, Pa.
Fralick, Gordon E Millersburg, Pa.
Frank, Harry Carl Millersburg, Pa.
Cansert, Harry Millersburg, Pa.
Carver, Davis L Millersburg, Pa.
Gilbert, Allen F Millersburg, Pa.
Gilbert, F. G 38 No. 17th, St., Harrisburg, Pa.
DIKECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
281
Hartman, James SliUersburg, Pa.
Hartman, Thomas Millersburg, Pa.
High, Paul Millersburg' Pa
Hoffman, Alfred Millersburg, Pa.
Hoffman, Bruce Millersburg, Pa.
Hoffman, T. R Millersburg, Pa.
Hoffman, Howard B Millersburg, Pa.
Hoy, Nevin N Millersburg, Pa.
Hoy, Herbert C Millersburg, Pa.
Hoy, Joe Millersburg, Pa.
Jury, Paul E Millersburg, Pa.
Johnson, H. D MOlersburg, Pa.
Johnson, Merle MOlersburg, Pa.
Klingman, L. E Millersburg, Pa.
Kepner, Ray E .Afillersburg, Pa.
Kepner, Howard Jr Millersburg, Pa.
Kerr, Robert V. C Millersburg, Pa.
Kline, Joe W Millersburg, Pa.
Kline, Ira M Millersburg, Pa.
Kuhns, H. L Millersburg, Pa.
Lawley, Frank P Millersburg, Pa.
Lenker, Harry 142 E. Phila. St., York. Pa.
Lenker, La\^Tence Millersburg, Pa.
Lenlcer, Luther Millersburg, Pa.
Lindsley, Allen Millersburg, Pa.
Liddick, Sheridan C Millersburg, Pa.
Link, Frank Millersburg, Pa.
Link, Chas. J .Millersburg, Pa.
Loomis, Walter G .Millersburg, Pa.
Louden, Christy :\lillersburg. Pa.
Marks, Lee :\lillersburg. Pa.
Matter, Clayton ^lillersbui-g, l^i.
Maxwell, C. J Millersburg, Pa.
McBride, Grover C .Millersburg. Pa.
Messner, Lloyd H Millersburg, Pa.
Messner, E. A Millersburg, P;i.
282
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
:\Iessner, John Millersburg
Messner, Mark A 96 N. 18th.
Messuer, George H Paxton, Pa,
Meek, Lloyd L Millersburg
Michael, George Millersburg
Miller, Herbert N Millersburg
Miller, Robert F Millersburg
Miller, Arthur V Millersburg
]\Iuggio, C Millersburg
Xeubaum, Fred Millersburg
Xeubaum, Frederich E Halifax, Pa
Novinger, Russell Millersburg
Novinger, Chas. L Millersburg
Polk, Claude Millersburg
Pottiger, Boyd Millersburg
Radel, Clarence IMillersburg
R'arig, Claude Millersburg
Reid, Chas. 1 817 S.
Reisch, Harry INIillersburg
Rothermell, John Millersburg
Rutter, Paul F. A ^Millersburg
Schaffer, Clarence ]Millersbrrg
Shaffer, Isaac W Millersburg
Salada. Chauncy Millersburg
Shatto, Chas. E :\Iillersbii.rg
Sheetz, a: C Halifax, Pa
Shetron, Garnet Millersburg
Shoop, Allen A Millersburg
Shrawder, Charles Millersburg
Sneeder, L. R Millersburg
Snyder, Raymond D Millersburg
Spong, Ralph B Millersburg
Stahl, Robert M Millersburg
Starr, Rev. Ralph E .Millersburg
Stence, William Millersburg
Stinner. Fred Millersburg
Pa.
St., Harrisburg, Pa-
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Broadway, Dayton. Ohio
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
R. D. 3
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
Pa.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 2b3
Strub, Frauds Millersbiirg, Pa.
Tschopp, AVilliam Millersbiirg, Ta.
Walborn, Elmer Millersburg, Pa.
Walborn, Robert Alillersbiirg, Pa.
Watkins, W, W Millersburg, P;i.
Watts, Guy Millersburg, Pa.
Weaver, Marlin P Millersburg, Pa.
, Wenner, George E! Millersburg, Pa.
Wert, Mark W Millersburg, Pa.
Wingard, George S Millersburg, Pa.
Wingard, D. M Millersburg, Pa.
Wright, Harry Millersburg, Pa.
James Bair, MiUersburg, Pa.
R. H. Bowman, Millersburg, Pa.
Josiah G. Fry, Millersburg, Pa.
Harry Kitner, Millersburg, Pa.
Russell C. Kitner, Millersburg, Pa.
W. M. Kerstetter, Millersburg, Pa.
W. L. Koppenhaver, Millersburg. Pa.
Ralph Kuntzelman, Halifax. Pa. \\. 1
Solomon Leitzel, Millersburg, Pa.
Isaac H. Mesener, Millersburg, Pa.
Lester Reigler, :\Tillersburg, Pa.
A. J. Skeels, Millersl)urg, Pa.
Slmer Sultzbaugh, Millersburg, Pa.
Chas. Witmer Millersburg, Pa.
Jonathan Zerby, Millersburg, Pa.
Harry Brown 0. C. Riehl.-r
Arthur Coleman Leroy Thompson
WiCONISCO
Roy C. Acaley Win. A. Calnon
William Bateman Homer Coleman
Anmoul Bordner T-^^lvin Casb.w
Leonard Boden K'.b.rt Caslow
Chartes Buffington -Tohu II. De.tnrh
284
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
David P. Evans
Forrest Evans
Albert K. Foster
Samuel Forney
George Fetterhoif
Thomas Guryther
Morris Gittin
Harry Hocklander
Harold Higgns
Joseph Allen Harman
Edward Park Harman
William H. Hart
Elmer Johns
Edward Jury
Ray Jones
Michael F. Kelly
E. Leroy Keen
Johna W. Keen
Huyden M. Keinger
Harney Kelly
Homer Klinger
Edward Kolvic
John Henry Kinsinger
Sammel Lodovinski
George J. Miller
William E. Mahoney
Jas. T. ]\IeAuliffe
Hirman
Charles Mesner
Robert E. xMinnich
John D. Palmer
Harvey J. Row
Stiney Russelnage
Clarence E. Sanders
Albert E. Snyder
Edward H. Seip
Roy E. Seip
Gunnis Rlckert
William- E. Seip
Harry W. Steener
John I, Shadel
Ralph Smeltz
Harry Shamper
Thomas AV, James
George W. James
Elmer E. Umholtz
Harry C, Umholtz
AVm. Henry Williams
Albert R. Watkeys
David John Watkeys
Harper W. Weist
George R. Witmer
Joseph Weaver
John Ydrresick
George J. Ydrresick
Zimmerman
Berryburg
Joseph Stover
Forrest Keboch
Harry Wade
Paul Lyter
Guy Shoop
Walter Lebo
Harry Hartman
Roscoe Daniel
Hain
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
285
Lykens
Floyd D. Reese
Gu}' Arrisoii
Samuel H. Barrett
Homer Beadle
rCharles Bretz
Lamar Cooper
Joseph Cyckonski
Ambrose Cycuskouskie
Charles A. Deitrieh
John H. ^B. Deitrieh
Charles Dressel
David J. Evans
William C. Evans
Malvin S. Finton
Harrv^ C. Finton
Adam J. Faust
Leo N. Fritz
Author Bruce Morris
Howard E. Miller
James E. Machamer
Eugene M. McAuliffe
:\Iyron F. Nutt
"Wellington J. O'Gourek
Fred W. Paul
Clarence C. Parfet
Eugene C. Pinkerton
George Albert Pell
Clayton Peters
John Russel Page
David Romberger
Clarence Romberger
William P. Radel
George R'adel
George Allen Row
William G. Reigle
David Romberger
William II. Sargeant
Victor Shalley
Robert E. Swat
William Salada
Harry B. Salada
Lee A. Schmincli
Daney Snyder
Ivin G. Snyder
Clarence Schoffstall (Loyahon)
William Charles Schoffstall
Lee H. Schreiner
Charles E. Schreiner
S. Ray Stanley
Martin Sponick
James N. Smith
John T. Saltzer
John Fredrick Schott
Frank D. Stuppy
Hany M. Troxeli
John F. Troxeli
Carroll Thomas
Ray C. Wise
Charles J. Walde
Carl AYest
Allen Williams
George William Weaver
James Byron Williams
Harry C. Werner
George AVym
Herman J. Wcntzler
Wellington -J. Voss
Lewis II. (teager
Charles J. Zigner
Clayton J. Good
Ray F. (Jood
Rudolpli -i. (ioldberger
286
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLFA' HISTORY
Elmer Grim
Ralph Grim
Author L. Helt
John Albert Hentz
Edward Hoover
Sammuel J. Hoff
John D. Harper
Carnelins M. Harper
William H. Harman
Lewis Iberson
Earl C. James
Paul W. Kniley
Joseph Skolnic
George
(Jiiaries Krauthoff
Jonas E. Koiser
Claude Keiser
Edward D. Keiser
Marion K. Keiser
James Edward Kocher
Harry A. Klinger
Belton G. Klinger
Earl L. Lehr
Charles S. Longo
Edward V. Longo
Vincent Longo
Author W. Lawley
W. Lehr
Elizabethville
Charles H. Snyder
James E. Snyder
Stew^art V. Swab
Sidney Goldman
Irvrn Spessler
Jesse 0. Zeigler
Edwin W. Zeigler
Philip B. Musser
Allen C. Lentz
Lloyd E. Enders
Kev. P. M. Haldeman
Miles V. Miller
Forrest A. Bohner
Howard L. Weaver
Dr. Robert E. Barto
Lewis C. Buffington
Willis H, Cooper
Mark L. Matter
Harm- D. Bahnev
Homer A. Erdman
John A. Dubendorf
Edwin C. Bechtel
John B. Klinger
Charles 0. Dobson
Elwood R. Miller
Charles A. Hetrick
Joseph W. Stover
Harry L. Wade
Laurence Romberger
C. Russel Botts
Lester A. Enders
Lester Harner
Clinton Whitcomb
Leroy A. Temple
Warren L. Koppenhaver
John D. Palmer
Harry Okenreider
Paul Gonder
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REMKW
287
John Hummel (Killed in Action)
Lloyd Tschopp (Killed in Action)
Walter A. Irving (Wounded in Action)
Clair A. Hoke (Wounded in Action)
Byran Stroup (Wounded in Action)
WlLLIAMSTOWN
Frank Amthor
Stanley R. Adams
Wm. Andrew Scavidge
Geo. A. Adams
^lark L. Adams
*Jas. W. Burns
Thos. J. Bell
Jos. A. Byerly
Wm. Breslin
Thos. Bottomly
Paul Bates
Chas. W. Bast
Edw. P. Boyle
Jos. A. Barnes
Earl Bond
W. Y. Blanning
Thos. Bond, Jr.
John S. Blum
Howard A. Blanning
Elwood E. Blanning
Gordon Britton
J. A. Baddorf
Jos. BergzoU
G. Campbell
Thos. Cook
Chas. Curtis
H. LeRov Carl
Paul Carl
P. F. Craven
Ed. J. Coles
Art Clouser
Dennis Cavaiiaiitrli
Thos. E. Dohm
Jos. W. Diirhiii
Thos. J. Doyle
Richard Doyle
G. F. Doyle
Sam G. Enders
Harry Edwards
Roy L. Frantz
Stanley E. Fliim
Claranee Fickingcr
John H. Falk
Harper Finley
Wilson Greiner
Wesley Grillitli
AVm. J. Grillilli
Allen Flinu
Thos. W. Graham
Jos. M. Gniham
Jas. J. Gaffney
Michael Garver
John S. Geist
Jos. J. Golden
288
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Ray Greiner
John Harmon
Clarence Hoover
Beecher R. Hay
Harold J. Hay
Fred Hoffman
PAT CRAVEN
Nace Hopple
F. G. Humbert
J. W. H. Jones
Wm. J. Kennedy
Russel Kissinger
R. Frank Keene
John A. Klinger
David L. Klinger
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
289
Jas. P. Kelly
Gordon Kinsey
Henry L. Kramer
]\Tark M. Kelly
]\Iark Kilraine
Arthur Klinger
Elmer Kissinger
Leo Lynch
Wm. T. Lynch
David Lewis
Jesse Lewis
Abe Lewis
Roy C. Long
Wm. J. Lower
Ray i\Iiller
Raymond IMiller
Andrew jMelkhko
Chas. W. Miller
Arthur Moffet
David Morgan
Odon ^IcNails
Homer McNeal
Lester Moyer
John jMurray
Thomas JMates
Howard McNanan
Vincent Maher
Jas. McNamara
Jeremiah McNamara
Ray T. McNamara
Peter IMcHugh
Chas. Michaels
Jas. Meehan
Otto Messner
Ross W. Moss
Jos. Melisky
Forrest W. Nace
Geo. M. Nace
Jeremiah Nace
Mark Newton
Jas. C. Newton
James Newton
Jas. Noel
S. Pickalovidge
Edw. C. Punch
Wm. F. Punch
Jos. S. Pliillips
Harry Perkins
Wm. Powell
Harvey Pennell
John C. Pennell
Jos. Phillips
Sebert Pliillips
p]. R. Raudenbush
Jos. Rautlenbush
Wilmer Rowe
Jas. Richardson
Harry Raiitzen
Mark Rautzen
Earl Rickert
Jos. B. Ralph
S. Clair Row
Stephen Rebinsky
Forrest Reigle
Francis Reigle
Jas. Ryan
Thos. Ryan
Stcplien Rabm
Norman Schell
Gordon Sauers
David Samuels
Felix R. Sanniels
Wm. E. Slraub
290
LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Lehr Straub
Leo A. Schwink
Wilbert F. Straub
Jos. Diirbin Stites
Harry J. Stites
Jos. Shuttlesworth
*Rol)t. Shuttlesworth
N. Shuttlesworth
Frank Schuttlesworth
Wm. Schuttlesworth
Patrick Savage
Jas. F. Savage
Jos. D. Stinner
Vincent F. Smith
Allen W. Saussraan
Geo. L. Saussman
Harry Shammo
Kay Smith
Eay Troxell
Howard V. Troutman
Chas.
Jos. Thomas
J. Thomas
Geo. Valiska
B. W. Whitcomb
John Washburn
Wm. W. Watkins
Daniel F Wise
*Irvin Werdt
Clarence Waters
Wm. McK, Wagner
Albert Wolfe
Clarence Walters
JMark Walkinshaw
Jas. G. Walkinshaw
Jos. W. Warlow
John C. West
Clarence J. Wolfe
Earle Werdt
Clias. Williams
Rny Yoder
Llat A. Yokus
H. Straub
TOWER CITY, PA. AND PORTER TOWNSHIP
Tower City and end op Valley
Allen, James C,
*Antes, Charles F.,
Bowers, Harvey A.,
tBerney, Daniel B,,
*Bender, Fred,
Bowers, Harry A.,
^Bender. Irwin M.,
Barrv, Arthur,
*Brennan, Thomas,
Bailey, James A.,
*Blackman, Ray,
* Bowman, Thomas,
Bettinger, Irwin,
Bohr. Charles F.,
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
291
Bowers, William E.,
*Bohr, Oscar H.,
fBoyer, William,
*Bender, William F.,
Cleary, Leo,
Cambell, Walter,
Carl, Charles J.,
Craft, William,
Dinger, Ralph,
fDonato, Angelo,
Donetelli, Tony,
*Dnbbs. William H.,
Dawns, William,
Diechert, Edward,
Evans, Charles R.,
*Eng-lish, Webster D.
*Eberts, Clinton C,
Evans, Chester,
*Evans, Harvey A.,
Fry, Edwin,
Ferree, Elmer F.,
Fetterhoff, Victor F.,
Fesig, John,
*Foo:arty, Charles,
Fry, Wilbur,
*Farrell, Harold,
*Gehres, Harry,
tCriffith, John,
Ganley, Joseph R.,
*Gehres, Jacob,
Houtz, Clair E.,
Horn, Luther F.,
*Hoffman, Harvey S.,
Hawk, David J.,
Henry, Russel A.,
*Humbert, Fredrick C,
tHossler, Fredrick,
Hoover, Albert,
Hand, John IL,
Hand, Simon E.,
Hand, Clarence .M.,
Hand, Edgar F.,
Hand, Josiah i\.
Hand, Edward F.,
*Hand, R. H.,
§Heartler, Harry •]..
Heberling. Ctinrles E.,
§Hensel, Elmer,
*Herb, Clarence I)..
*Haslam, Elnici-,
Heartier, David.
Heberling. .lohn A..
*Plummcl, Harry.
Houtz, Edward .)r..
Hossler, Benjamin.
Hollenstcim. Oliver,
Jones, William K. •!..
*Jones. Stanley I\..
fKaufman. Benjamin IC,
tKnecht, Gilbert .1..
*Knecht. Roy.
§KopchoU, Peter.
*King. Charles.
*Kehl, George P..
*Kopp. L.vii .1..
Kolva. Wilson.
Kiiourt". William.
Kolb. Micheal W..
Kaufman, l-eroy.
Kuntzleman. Albert,
Kurtz. Hany C,
Kantner. Clark,
292
L\ KENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
Katerman, Harry,
Kuntzleman, Amos H.,
Long, Robert E,,
Lyons, Timothy J.,
Lyons, Joseph J.,
*Lord, John J.,
Lyons, Daniel F. J.,
fLenord, Terrance W.,
Lebo, Irvin L.,
*Lodish, Anthony,
*Leonard, Leo,
*Machamer, George W.,
*Machamer, Clair W.,
Machamer, Harry L.,
*Miller, /Warren,
^Miller, William,
*Willer, Stanley R.,
Meyers, Harry E.,
Miller, Edward F.,
Miller, William A.,
Miller, John A.,
Minnich, Ralph C. J.,
Mack, James H.,
*Maher, Ray,
Mione, Samuel,
*McDonald, John Leo,
*Messner, John G.,
*Morgan, James G.,
McMullen, Vincent,
Murray, Joseph,
Miller, Abraham P.,
*Nash, Joseph H.,
§Nash, William A.,
*Neidlinger, Elvin,
Neidlinger, Emory,
Ne3''er, John,
*Neyer, Franklin C. M.,
fNelson, Isaac,
Nelson-, Charles,
*Ney, Earl,
*Nable, Charles H.,
Nunemacher, James F.,
§Nunemacher, Allen,
Neidlinger, Walter,
*Powell, Charles L.,
*Patrick, Charles,
*Patrick, William,
*Patrick, Lloyd,
*Peiffer, Charles,
Powell, James C,
Russell, Harry IL,
Riczkis, William,
*Reightler, Charles,
Russelavage, Stiney,
Reedy, Robert C,
Reedy, Ray, in Germany.
Reiner, Ralph R.,
Rickert, Harry A.,
*Snyder, Chester R.,
*Snyder, Edward,
Schell, Leo F. J.,
Stoud, Edwin L.,
Starr, William J,,
Snyder, John F.,
Shingler, Albert R.,
Schrope, Robert,
Shomper, William F.,
Shoop, Harry,
Salem, Lester.
§Schaffer, Walter,
Shadle, Clayton,
*Schreiner, Charles A.,
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW
293
Shadle, Eronemans T.,
Underkoffler, Daniel R..
*Shutz, Sherman,
TJhler, George,
Shuey, Geant H.,
:j:Unger, Herl)ert,
:j:Sehwenk, Earl,
*Workman, Frank J.,
*Schwenk, William H.,
Wolfgang, Clarence M.,
§Schaffer, Ira,
Workman, Edward,
Sponsler, John H.,
Wean, Lincoln,
*Shell, Georg-e F.,
Wood, Edward,
Shiley, Harvey A.,
Watldns, Ivan C,
*Snyder, Samuel A.,
Warfield Harry C,
Snyder, Joseph,
*Wise, John C,
Trout, John G.,
*Wagner, Norman,
*Travitz, Clarence,
Walsh, Thomas J.,
*Thompson, Russell L.,
* Williams, Albert,
* Thompson, Allen,
Wagner, Clayton,
Wise, Albert R.,
Unger, Simon E.,
William, Fred W.,
Updegrave, Harper,
*Zerbe, Ulysses W..
* "Wonnded.
t Died in camn.
•j- — W'ounded, died.
§— Killed.
294 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
THE ''DID YOU KNOW" OR "DO YOU REMEMBER'"
DEPARTMENT
Charles Zerby of Lykens, was lost March 22, 1895; found
drowned in the Wiconisco Creek a few feet below the Penn-
sylvania Trestle, April 1, 1895.
—The great Anthracite coal strikes were :
September 17, 1900— to— October 29, 1900
May 27, 1902— to— October 27, 1902
— The Hoisting Engine installed at the top of short moun-
tain slope, Lykens, December 1, 1901, was built by Joseph
Duncan of Lykens, Pa.
— Edward C. Hanna, former Supt. of the Colliery for 13
years, and father of our distinguished citizen, A. F. Hanna,
dropped dead on the stainvay of the Masonic Temple, in Phila-
delphia, Frida}^ December 27, 1907, aged 84 years.
— The first aeroplane to fly over the Lykens Valley occured
April 20, 1913, when Walter Johnson of New York flew from
IMillersburg to Wiconisco in 13 minutes, landing about 9 :30
A. M.
— February 22, 1918, was the first time in the history of the
coal mines that the miners worked on that date — Washington's
birthdav.
— The Bull Engine House fire happened on the first day of
Januar}^ 1876,
— The first telephone installed in the valley was installed
on Short ^Mountain Slope in the year 1880 by C. W. Snyder
and Henry Erdman of Lykens.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL RKVIKW 2\)o
— The Big brick mines at Dayton oloserl operations in
December, 1877.
— The new Breaker at Short ^lountain Colliery was built
February 17, 1913.
— The Short ^Mountain AVashery burned to tiie jrroinul
April 18, 1919
— The first trip of coal ])rought up the new No. 1 shaft at
Lvkens occurred October 14, 1915.
— A flag pole was erected and flag raised at Short .Moun-
tain Colliery April 28, 1917— Community Services.
*
— The ncAV power plant at Short .Mountain Colliery-
Ground broken -^"'y 1^- l'*^'^
Slush pumped up 'Ii>"'' ^ '^^ ^"-^
First boiler fired August 1 1. 1!>21
First current turned on and conveyed to AVilliamstown.
Greenfield pump " October \\' 1!»21
The first electric doorbell in Lvkens was installe<l by C.
W. Snyder, in the home of Jonas Garnian in the year ISSO.
—Lvkens is named after and in hon..r ..f An-lr.u Lvkens
(Lycans) who settled at the old Forge f Oak-dale i in 17:.!). Tho
Lykens Valley also derived its name from this source.
— Elizabethville is named after au.l in lion-r of Kli/.ab.-th.
wife of John Bender, who founded th.' town in tli.- year ISli.
— Millersburg is named after an.l in lu.nor of Dani.«l and
John Miller, who founded the town in th.- year 1790.
296 lAKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
— Williamstown is named after and in honor of Daniel
"Williams who was a pioneer of the valley and who conducted
a Gris-mill near Williamstown. The Williams Valley also de-
rives it's name from this man.
— Wiconisco is named after the Wiconisco Creek, as well as
is the Wiconisco Township. This creek is an historical stream
and is of Indian traditional origin. The original name spelled
was Whiconescong.
— The first private home and store in Lykens to be equipped
with telephone service was the property of Lewis H. Heilner,
now the W. H. Uhler Drug Store property, in 1880.
— John Paul, Jr., who resided at Elizabethville, was a valu-
able consulting engineer during the construction of the Lykens
Valley railroad. He was also called into consultation by a
large construction company at the time of the building of the
famous Altoona Horse Shoe Bend, and he at that time solved tlie
perplexities confronted, and made possible this great railroad
feat.
— In 1846 Millersburg was a town camposed of about eighty
dwellings, two stores, one mill and three churches.
— Berrysburg was the first seat of the organization of the
Evangelical denomination in this region.
— Ludwig Minsker, an emigrate from the Palatinate,
located in Clark's Valley in the year 1750. He built his log
cabin on a run near where the old John Hocker, Jr., property
now stands. He was a man of great courage, and the Indians
of the neighborhood fearing him, never molested him or his
family
— Andrew (Lyvan) Lykens settled at the old Forge, Oak-
Dale, now Loyalton, in the year 1750.
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIEW 297
—Oak-Dale Forge was built about the year 1828 by James
Buchanan, who at the same time or year following, built six or
seven houses for his workmen. Some of the older families re-
siding here at that time were the following— John (iinter.
Thomas Nutt, George Gonner, Samuel Boon and Joseph Dunlai).
— The first Post Office located in the Lykens-Williams
Valley, was at Oak-Dale, now Loyalton, and that the firet Post
Master was Mr. James Buchanan. In those days mail was
•carried by pony each week and neighbors i)rior to that time took
turns at walldng to Millersburg weekly for mail.
— The first Justice-of-the-Peace in the Ly kens-Williams
Valley was Mr. Adam Wise and date as of February 1st. 1799.
The second Justice was Mr. John Hopple, March 19th. 1799.
The places of residence of these men in the valley could not be
ascertained.
— Towercity is named after and in honor of it 's founder.
Charlmagne Tower. Mr. Tower was one of the largest land
owners of Schuylkill County in this valley and praetically de-
veloped the coal industry in that end. He died a few years ago
leaving an estate estimated at twenty three million dollars.
This etsate is of perpetual nature and is today refuted to be
worth thirty three million.
— When the United Mine Workers of Ameriea Distiict
number 9 held their convention in Lykens. Pa. in the old ()i)i'ra
house up on the hill, in 1901. Do you remember that funny
song George Kosier rendered, ''Hi-Le, Ili-Lo." etc.— at the
convention ?
— Gratz Borough was laid out and named in honor of Simon
Gratz, grandfather of Mr. David Gratz, residing on Mark.'t St.
Lvkens, Pa.
—The first settlers in the Lykens-Williiims Valb-y w.-re
Prench Huguenots and Germans,
298 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
— The Lykens vallej^ Railroad built in 1834, drawn by
horse power, on a flat strap rail, was the fourth railroad in the
United States for the purpose of transporting Anthracite coa!.
— The Wiconiseo Canal was built in the year 1848.
— Berrysburg is named after the Berry's Mountain lying
in the vicinity.
— Hon. Harry Baker, Pennsylvania State Republican Chair-
man, began his political carrer when Senator A. F. Thompson
of Lykens apponted him a Page in the Senate, some years ago.
— The first steam boat to go up the Susquehanna River
past Millersburg occurred in 1825. The name of the boat was
Codores (Nolan Diary) .
— The first crime committed in the valley (murder) occurred
in 1857, a short distance below Fennels ]Mines on Short ^Nloun-
tain (Nolan Diary).
— The first execution in Harrisburg took place July 14,
1798. The hanging was done on wliat is now Capital Hill
(Nolan Diary).
— The last woolen mill conducted in the valley was by
Samuel Wolfe, about 2^ miles west of Loyalton.
— In 1863 there were just three houses in Williamstown.
That the town was then called Buehlerton?
— Smallpox epidemic in Lykens-AViconisco in 1874. Ap-
proximate total deaths were seventy.
— Do you remember when Wiconiseo Creek was a clear
water brook, and one could catch v^ath hook and line, all kinds
of fresh water fish including trout, etc.?
DIRECTORY AND PICTORIAL REVIKW oy.j
Did you knoAv that Lyken-Williams Valley at its hiohc-st
pomt of elevation, is live thousand feet above sea level?
Cyclone passed through valley touching Eli/al.ethville most
serious, during the year 1850. The property which stood on
the lot now occupied by the Hassinger home, was blown ck-aii
into the middle of the street.
Theodore Miller, is the oldest resident of Elizabethvill
Did you know that Mr. I'. B. .Miller, one of the early pion-
eers of the valley and father of Theo. Miller of ElizalUhville, con-
ceived the idea and assisted materially in organizing the Lykens
Valley Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and was that company's
first Secretary and Treasurer.
Did you know that a close relative of Hon. George Washing-
ton, our first president is buried in the old cemetery located on
the Elmer Romberger farm at the Western end of Short .Mt.
near Loyalton.
Did you ever notice that peculiar sight while traveling from
the upper end of the valley to 3Iillersburg on the Pennsylvania
R. R. ? If this is news to you, pay attention next time you make
that trip and .just before you come to Woodside station yon will
pass a brick house, which in passing presents all four sides to
view. Traveling West, looking from the right side, you will
first notice the Eastern side, then the front or Southern siile. as
you proceed you will see the AVest Side and tinally liefore you
are aware of it you are looking at the Xortheni expo.Mire of the
property. Look for it next time.
Hon. George Coles formerly of Wieonisco, is at present
United States District Attorney in llu- rhihidelphi;! District.
When Lykens was laid out in lots by Edward (iratz. father
of our citizen, David Gratz of Market Street, it happened clur-
ing the year 1848. Did you know that the first baby hoy horn
;}()Q LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
in the then organized town was none other our former ice-
man, Mr. William Matter, who still resides in the borough and
enjoys the distinction of being the oldest native citizen.
"While Mr. William H. Matter may be the oldest native citi-
zen of Lykens borough, the oldest resident is Mr. Henry Keiser
of Market Street. Mr. Keiser came to Lykens, however, just
a few' days before Mr. Matter was born in the year 1848.
Did you know that during the summer of either 1894 or
]895, William Farnura, a present well-known motion picture
star, worked in and about the mines of Williamstown, the en-
tire summer.
Did you know that Eva Tanguay, one of the leading cele-
brites of the stage to day, appeared for her first time on the
stage, in the Old Lykens Opera House about 1894.
Did you know that Rubendalls run, which empties into the
Wiconisco Creek, a short distance West of Williamstown at the
North side of the Valley, is named after and in honor of Isaac
Rubendall, one of the earlier settlers of the valley.
Did you know that the first church organization in Wicon-
isco happened in 1838.
Did you know, or do you remember when during the month
of January 1911, the thermometer registered 29 degrees below
zero in many parts of the valley.
Did you know that Lutheranism began in The Lykens-
Williams Valley about the year 1795. It began with Father
Wirt who preached at Wirt's or Killinger church.
Did you know that Gratz Borough is one of the oldest in-
corporated boroughs in the county of Dauphin.
DIRECTOIIY AND PICTORIAL RE\IE\V
301
In Memory of
Our Former Great American President
The Late
THEODORE ROOSEVELT
302 LYKENS-WILLIAMS VALLEY HISTORY
The Live Store Always Reliable
The Store Everybody is Talking About
DOUTRICHS
SQUARE DEALING
GREATER VALUES
Hart, Schaffner & Marx, Kuppenheimer
and Society Brand Clothes
304 Market Street Harrisburg, Pa.
®I^^ ®?bgrapl| pnntmg (Ha,
Plant: State and Cameron Sts. Sales Office: 216 Federal Square
Barrtaburg, ppttnagltiama
PRINTING
DESIGNING
PHOTO -ENGRAVING
DIE STAMPING
PLATE PRINTING
EMBOSSING
BINDING
RULING
LOOSE-LEAF WORK
**Th€ Complete Printing Establishment**
. BUSINESS DIRECTORY
cit YOUR BUSINESS. ^"^'"^^^ ^°"-^*^^ *" The Lykens-WiUiams Valley Soli-
To consult and use the Directory proceed as per. these instructions
The compilation below consists of a careful, alphabetically^ arranged list
of comni^dities and the key to the same is very simple. After having ascer-
tained the^ article you desire to purchase, consult this list, find the article
or class of the same and refer to the pages listed as the commodity
I- * Yu^ instance you are interested in Automobiles, find Automobiles in the
list there you will find numbers 128. 130 and so on ; turn to those pages and
find the business announcements of various houses dealing in that -line from
these you will undoubtedly be able to select your needs.
DIRECTORY
Commodity PaQes
Advertising 87, 124, 142, 156. 179
Agencies 128, 130, 143, 144, 153, 155
Amusements I54
Animals 140
Automobiles 128,' 130, 143, 144, 153
Auto. Accessories 128, 130, 119, 143, 144, 153
Baking 86
Banking ,s."». US. liil. i:t<.». l.-.c. 17s
Beverages .-,4. sf.. V20. V22
Billiards .-,4. m. 122, l.Sd
Builders 121, 139
Confection 86, 87, 121, 130, 143, 179
Cleaning 116
Contracting 121, 142. 126, 155
Department Store 93, 94, 117, 119, 126, 143, 179
Distributors 153, 121, 87, 122, 124, 139, 144, 155
Dry Goods 88, 93, 94, 117, 126. 143, 179
Electrical 126, 142
Furniture 119. 121, 122. 139, 159, 179
Funeral Directing 121, 142, 159
General Mdse 93, 94, 116, 117, 119, 124, 126, 143, 179
Groceries 88, 93, 94, 117. 126, 143, 179
Hardware 121. 127, 139, 155
Hotels lis, 123. 125. 143
Insurance 86. 141
Investments 118, 85, 121, 139, 140, 156, 17s
Ice 120
Ice Cream •">4. Sf!. 122. VAO
Jewlery 125
Lumber l*'^
Manufacturing 139, 141, 144, 151. 152
Meats 11"- 15-
Men-s Clothing ll"'.. HO. 12<i. 14:!. .•{02
Men's and Women's Clothing 119, 126. 143
Music -^4. 119. 121. 122. 179
Medicines and Drugs ^'^
Newspapers S7, 124, 142, 156. 179
Notions 88, 94, 117. 119. 126. 143. 1.52, 179
Novelties and Stationery 81, l;i2
Prof essLial '.■;::.■.■.■ 11^ 127. 142. 157. 159
Pressing
Public Service
Public Conveniences • • -1^'.
Refreshments US. 120. 123. 125. 1.30. 143
thoS 88. 93. 116. 117. 119. 126. 143. 179
Shoe Repairing • :;, ' ,1
^Zl'"^ """'"' ::::::::-i3o.i2s:-ii9:-i43. 144; 153
tSScJos ■.■.■.■.■.■.■.■;.■.■.■.■.■;.■.■.■.■ ■>^. NO. 121. 122. 1^
Tomb Stones • •,; • ■.■ ; " V.;,.; , ,'..
Women's Clothing i''- '-• '-"• ' ''
lit;
l.".s
610 '