NYPL RESEARCH LIBRARIES
3 3433 08071615 6
THE
LAUFFER HISTORY.
A Genealogical chart of the descendents of
CHRISTIAN LAUFFER,
the Pioneer, with a few biographical sketches.
SEPTEMBER, J 905.
"There is a solidarity in human
nature, making those that follow,
a unity with those that precede."
Publication Committee,
Joseph A. Lauffer, Greensburg, Pa.. Chairman.
Dr. Cbaa. A. Lauffer, Manor, Pa.. Secretary.
Henry Z. Lauffer, Jeannette, Pa., Treasurer.
4552.(9
Press of
TllK WESTMORELAND JOURNAL.
Jcannette. Peuua.
J 906.
/
PREFACE.
Tliis beginning of Lauffer History is the outgrowth of a
pamphlet cm the Lauffer Family, issued July 4, 1902, at a Re-
union held at the home of H. Z. Lauffer, north of Jeannette. Pa.
It has been the purpose of the compilers of this bref Histor)
to give accurate data of all the branches of the Lauffer Family,
for both sons and daughters, that have sprung from Father Chris-
tian. We have spared neither time nor expense in searching
archives, visiting and letter writing.
When people failed to answer letters, we were unable to pro-
ceed ; they have themselves to blame for omissions. Where
branches of the family did not organize and supply data, such
omissions are beyond our control.
Theur will doubtless be found many errors in this book; and
many Lauffer relatives there are, who are not mentioned. For
th« correction of errors, and the insertion of data not as yet sup-
plied to us, we will esteem it a great favor if you will let the facts
be known to any member of the Committee. We will make it sat-
isfactory in a later edition. It is urged that Christian Lauffer's
descendants everywhere organize their respective branches of the
family, and send in all data, preferably to the Secretary, Dr.
Chas. A. Lauffer, Manor, Pa., Westmoreland Co. He will see
that it gets in proper hands for in>ertion in the next edition of the
History.
"We are among those who believe that
any who care not about their earthly origin,
care little as to anything higher."
HARBAUGH.
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
The Lauffers in Europe i
The early Lauffers in America ;
Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer 8
Rela:ions to Church and State 10
The Daughters of Christian, the Pioneer 12
The Bartol Laffer Branch* 15
Land Transfers; Bartel Laffer 16
John Laffer 1 S
Henry Laffer 19
Christian Laffer 19
Adam Laffer 20
The Christian Laffer Branch 22
The John Lanffer Branch 29
Elizab* amer) Division 30
Susanna 1 Shumaker) Division 33
Mary I Ashbaugh) Division 36
Christian Lanffer Division 42
liel Lanffer Division (.6
John Lanffer Jr. Division 4s
The Branches are children of Christian, the Pioneer; the
his grandchildren, and their descendants.
Simon Lauffer Division 57
Seth Lauffer Division 59
Hettie, Henry 65
Jacob Lauffer Division 65
Sarah (Miller) Division 67
Hannah 69
Catherine (Waugaman) 69
The Henry Lauffer Branch 72
Henry Lauffer Jr. Division 73
Elizabeth (Rumbaugh) Division 81
Mary (Gress) Division 84
Susanna (Hartzell) Division g^
John Lciuffer Division** 90
The Peter Laufer Branch 145
Peter Laufer Jr. Division 151
Adam Laufer Division 154
Jacob Lawfer Division 160
Rachel (Renner) Division 168
Elizabeth (Gerber) Division 168
Catherine (Asch) (Heiney) Division 171
Susanna (Lilly) Division 175
Anna Maria (Marsh) Division . . 177
** The matter of this volume exclusive of the John
Lauffer Division of the Henry Lauffer Branch was arranged for
the printer by Dr. Chas. A Lauffer.
As to the collection of data for this volume, the Committee
expresses its obligations to all who assisted, some of whom are
mentioned in this book.
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1906.
By JOSEPH A. LAUFFER,
CHARLES A. LAUFFER,
HENRY Z. LAUFFER,
COMMITTEE.
In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. D. C,
THE LAUFFERS IN EUROPE.
The Lauffcrs are of the Reformed faith, and lived in the
Rhine country, in the old Palatinate ; and Heidelberg, its cap-
ital holds a place in family traditions. When the valley of the
Rhine was devastated by French armies, the Palatines sought shel-
ter in Switzerland, Germany, Holland ; from the latter country
many went to England, and thousands of them found an asylum,
on these shores, especially in Pennsylvania.
That Laufers have dwelt in Nurenburg is shown by the cuts
of souvenir postals that are herein contained. These postals were
sent to John N. Lawfer, of Allentown, by Mr. John Wanamaker,
of Philadelphia, who was a personal friend of the late Wm. R.
Lawfer, of Allentown.
It behooves us to look up our family tree when in Europe.
That there are good Lauffcrs still on the Continent is shown by
the following personal Utter, which we produce in full, by courte-
sy of John N. Lawfer, of Allentown:
Weim, Mch. 2nd, 1905.
Dear John : — Herrn Askar von Lauffer was to see me to-day
after receiving a letter from Chas. A. Lauffer (is this your son?)
and I had quite a chat with him. The letter was written to his
father, who is 81 years old, so he could not come, and so his son
Askar came. It appears from his talk that his branch of the
family came from Switzerland, Canton Argon, who were under
the rule of theHapsburgers, the present Austrian reigning house,
and went into Austria somewhere near the border of Germany.
The Richter order of the Iron Crown was iriven to his father in
May 1, 1884,. when his father went into pension, so only this man
and his sens are entitled to the von. He told me that sometime in
16 or 1700 the Laufters lost their old order, probably this man's
grandfather, three or four times removed. Their ancestors took
part in some revolution and came out on the losing side, conse-
quently lost his title and who knows his head, or maybe the one
Thf Lauffer History
who went to America. Gaston, the present owner of the title,
has five sons ■ —
Gaston Ritter von Lauffcr, aged 55, is Colonel at Kraskan.
Julius Lauffer, aged 51, is major.
Alfred Lauffer, aged 49, is an official of railroad at Groz.
Arthur Laufler, aged 43, is in a Gun Factory, at Steier.
Askar Lauffer, aged 48, 1st Lieutenant in pension, living
with his father.
He is quite a large man but not in robust health, think he is
1 little paralyzed, has a little halt in his speech and in his walk,
but has a familiar face and when I told him you folks were all
large he said, "Yes, that is the Schweitzer mark, we are all large.*'
He does not have a perfect history, at least it does not go back to
Weim as far as vou say — 1713 — but somewhere in early 1800. It
looks to me as if vou might possibly be from Schwitz and when
you find from what place in the Schwitz he came from, write to
the town clerk and he perhaps can tell when your branch left for
America. He told me there is a Prof. Lauffer in the Hoch
school in Prog Austria but did not think he was any relation of
theirs. A letter there might give you some trace. This man
Askar has a full face although darker hair than you gentlemen at
Allentown, but as far as the round face goes he might be a rela-
tion. He will write to you some time soon after he has his data
all together. Said it would please hi into get the History from
the American side, so told him it would no doubt give vou lots of
pleasure to do it. I hope he will give you what you want. With
best wishes to you and your Wife. Am as ever,
Your friend,
j.i
HENRY S. SHIMER,
Office New York Life Insurance Co.
Rothen thurm Strasse. 21.
In Weber's Outlines of Universal History, page 2$y, Para-
graph 407, we read: "For the purpose of creating a diversion in
favor of the Turks against the superior power of Austria, Louis
Nurnberg
I. an I II
Laufebthok, F.\i tick Gate.
t
ft ferr
i^
%>
Laufek SchlagthuBj Laufek Clock Tower.
i.
X
— —
— —
Li /.
— r
X
The Lauffer History.
XIV. took advantage of affairs relating to the inheritance of the
Palatinate and the election of the archbishop of Cologne, to en-
gage in the third war, called the war of Orleans. When the elect-
or Charles died without male issue, and the land fell into the col-
lateral Catholic line of Pfalz Neuburg, Louis XIV. claimed not
only the movable property, but also the immovable estate, as the
inheritance of Elizabeth Charlotte, the sister of the deceased
Elector, and the wife of Louis's brother, the duke of Orleans,
and when this claim was not admitted, he marched an army upon
the Rhine. For the purpose of rendering it impossible for the
enemy to penetrate into France, Louvois, the hard-hearted minis-
ter of war, gave command for creating a desert between the two
kingdoms by devastating the banks of the Rhine. Hereupon,
the wild troops fell like incendiaries upon the flourishing villages
of the Bergstrasse, the rich cities on the Rhine, and the blooming
districts of the southern Palatinate, and reduced them to heaps of
ashes. The shattered tower of the castle of Heidelberg is yet a
si'ent witness of the barbarity with which Melac and other leaders
• - ecuted the commands of a merciless government. Towns and
villages, vineyards and orchards, were in flames from Haardtge
birge to Xahe ; in Manheim, the inhabitants themselves were
obliged to assist in destroying their own buildings and fortifica-
tions ; a great part of Heidelberg was consumed by fire, after the
bridge of Xeckar had ben blown up : in Worms, the cathedral with
many of the dwelling houses became the prey of the flames; and
in Spire, the French drove out the Citizens, set tire to the plunder-
ed city and the venerable cathedral, and desecrated the bones of
the ancient emperors."
LAUFFERS IN AMERICA.
Near Straasburg on the Rhine in the state of Baden Baden
is a town named Buhl, and near Buhl is a village named Lauffer.
We are informed it is a town of 400 inhabitants. Whether our
common forefather came from this village or not we do not know,
but he was certainly a Palatine, who for freedom of conscience
and personal safety sought an asylum in Pennsylvania,
As a digression, it may be in order to mention the conster-
nation that the arrival of so many Germans in Philadelphit evok-
ed among the Quakers : for it is a matter of well authenticated
History that at the outbreak of the American Revolution, the Ger-
man population in Pennsylvania outnumbered the English, Scotch,
Irish and all others combined.
We cop) from p. 47. Rupp's 30.00 names: "At a meeting
•• the Board of the Provincial Council held in the Court
House in Philadelphia. Sept. 21. 1727. 109 Palatines appeared,
who. with their families, numbered about 400 persons. These
were imported into the Province in the ship William and Sarah,
William Hill, master, from Rotterdam, last from Dover, England,
as by clearance from officers of His Majesty's Customs there.
The >aid master being asked if he had any license from the
' Court of Great Britain for transporting these people, and what
■ h -ir intentions were in coming hither, said that he had no licen .c
'Or allowance for their transportation other than the above clear-
ance, and that he believed they designed to settle in this province,
(Col. Rec. Vol. 111., p. 283).
1 "Ail male persons above the age of 16 did repeat and sub-
scribe their name- or make their mark, to the following Declara-
tion :"
"We, subscribers, natives and late inhabitants of the Palati-
nate upon die Rhine, and places adjacent, having transported our-
selves and families into the Province of Pennsylvania, a colony
subject to the crown of Great Britain, in hopes and expectations
of finding a retreat and peaceable settlement therein.
The Lauffer History.
"Do solemnly promise and engage, that we will be faithful
and bear true allegiance to His present MAJESTY, KING
GEORGE THE SECOND, and his successors, Kings of Great
Britain, and will be faithful to the proprietor of this Province, and
that we will demean ourselves peaceably to all his said Majesty's
subjects, and strictly conform to the Laws of England and of this
Province to the utmost of our power, and the best of our under-
standing."
This oath and the registration is necessitated makes it easier
for us German Americans to trace our ancestry.
Among the arrivals of Lauffer we note: (Ruff's 30,000
names p. 260) Sept. 23, 1751. Schiff Neptun, Captain James
Wier, von Rotterdam, Uber Cowes, — 154 Reisende, Michael
Lauffer, and J. Michael Lauffer, p. 341, Vol. XVI I. Penn'a Arch-
ives, 2nd series. Mathias Lauffer, qualified Sept. 25, 175 1. Im-
ported in the Ship Phoenix, Capt. John Spurrier from Rotter-
dam, last from Portsmouth, p. 343, Christian Laufner, ship Phoe-
nix, John Spurrier, Captain, from Rotterdam, last from Ports-
mouth, Qualified Sept. 25, 175 1 . p. 384 Johannes Lauffer, im-
ported in Ship Edinburgh, Capt. James Russell, from Rotter-
dam, last from Portsmouth, England. Qualified Sept. 14, 1753.
(The spelling of our name has been in a fluid state, liable to
great individual and family variation, as succeeding pages
will show).
The above Christian Laufner may be our common ancestor,
or the father of our Christian Lauffer may have come to these
shores before the registration of 1727 began.
The old records show other Lauffers. P. 232. Vol. I.,
Penn'a Archives 3rd series, Lawrence Laufer, former husband of
Margaret Long, who possessed land on the Conewago ( a creek-
flowing west into the Susquehanna River, near Harrisburg) ;
1746 he had the land surveyed, 2 acres were cleared, for which he
had no deed ; "and the governor determines that having regularly
applied and obtained a survey, ought to have it confirmed."
We discovered in the office of the Register of Wills, Lan-
caster County, the original document, being the
Thr Lauffer History.
Last Will of Conrad Lawfer
Entered 2 May, 1753.
In the Name of God, Amen.
The twenty-ninth day of April, T751, Conrad Lawfer, of the
Borough of Lancaster, yoeman, being very sick and weak in body,
but of Perfect Mind and Memory, Thanks be unto God therefore
Calling: into Mind the Mortality of my Body, and knowing that
it is appointed for all men once to dye, do make and ordain this
my Last Will and Testament and Give, Devise and Dispose of the
Same in the following manner and form.
It is my will and I do order. That in the first place all my
just Debts and funeral Charges be paid and Satisfied.
Item, I give and bequeath unto my Brothers and Sisters here-
after named John George Elizabeth, Orsula, John Michael, John
and Christian Marx Lawfers, unto each and every one of them
The Sum of one Shilling Sterling.
Item, I give and bequeath unto my Beloved Wife Catrina
Eliazbeth the whole remaining of my Worldly Estate and also
My House and Lott in which I now Live to her Heirs and as-
signs. I likewise Mark and Constitute and ordain her for my
onely and Sole Executrix of this my Last will and Testament.
I do hereby utterly Disavow, revoke and disannul all and every
other former Testament wills and Executors by me in any waise
before this 1 ime Named willed and bequeathed.
Ratefying and Confirming this and no other to be My Last
wili and Testament, in Witness whereof I have hereunto Set My
hand and seal the day and year first above written,
His
Conrad H Lawfer
Mark
Signed, sealed published pronounced and
declared by the Testator as his Last Will
and Testament, in the presence of us
Johannes Okman
Marttin Blevmever
The Laufff.r History.
His
Conrad X Kissey
Mark
Abra Myer
The 2nd Day of May, 1753 Before me the Subscribed came
John Oterman and Abraham Myor two of the witnesses to the ex-
ecution of the within written Will and said John Otyman on his
corporal oath and the said Abraham Moyer on his solemn affirma-
tion did Declare and say that they were present and saw and heard
Conrad Lawfer the within Named Testator sign seal and publish
and declare the within writing as and for his Last Will and Tes-
tament and That at the Doing thereof he was of Sound and Dis-
posing Mind, Memory, and Understanding according to the best
of their Knowledge and belief. Edw : Shippen
Dept Register.
Catharine Eliz.th Eller wife of Leonard Eller is exec.
In the pioneer days of early marriages and large families, it
was necessary to do no more than occupy the land you desired,
have it surveyed and pay a nominal price for it to the proprietors
of the Province. It is conceivable that this Lawrence Laufer left a
large family ; the Conewago separates Lancaster from the pres-
ent Dauphin County, and one son (Conrad) moved to Lancaster
where he died without heirs: and that another son (Christian)
moved to the foot hills of the Blue Ridge, and has become the
father of a multitude.
That Christian is the name of our common ancestor we know
from the centenarian John Lauffer, who visited all his uncles;
and we have his word confirmed from five other independent
sources. But which Christian of the two named we leave to your
choice, as we can find no records to help us out.
CHRISTIAN LAUFFER.
P. 117 Vol. XXVI., Penn'a Archives, 3rd Scries. We are here
informed that Nov. 13, 1771 Christian Lauffer bought 40 acres of
land in the County of Northampton.
He was at this time a middle-aged man, with married sons
and daughters. Within the next few years the migration into
Westmoreland County carried several of his married children
westward, and he followed in 1774 taking his whole family, ex-
cept Peter. He had six sons and five daughters.
Sons of Christian.
Bartol. Daughters of Christian.
Christian. Elizabeth.
Henry. Susanna.
John. Catherine.
Peter. Mary.
Adam. Magdalenna.
Christian Lauffer was born in 1730 and died in 1800 (ap-
proximately). He is buried in the old Bash Cemetery, near Pleas-
ant Unity, but no tombstone marks his grave. The early settlers
had tombstones brought from across the mountains — 300 miles
over fearful roads. And when these were not secured, sand
stone slabs with names and dates cut on with a chisel, were used
as grave markers. These time soon effaced, hence our inability
to know his age. except, approximately, th rough t court house
documents.
The privations and poverty of these early settlers was ex-
treme. Salt had to be brought from the East. Wheat had to be
taken to the Mongahela to be ground, at first. The markets
were far distant. The Indians troublesome. There was a con-
stant struggle to pay for the land — and land hunger helped to keep
him and his sons in poverty.
We know from tradition (my grandfather, Jacob F., heard it
from his father, Henry, Jr.,), (John, Jr., the centenarian from his
father. John, Sr.), that Christian Laffer lived near Pleasant Uni-
The Lauffer History
ty, but from land transfers we do not know definitely which are
his, and which are his son Christian's.
From wills of Northampton County, p. 182, Will Book No.
I, John Deter, Sr., of Morestown, under date of May 12, 1772,
makes a will, leaving- property to his wife and nine children. His
son, John, is executor, and the witnesses are his wife, Elizabeth,
John Egoditis, Adam Marsch, and Christian Laft'er. Hence the
date 1774, as the year of his migration given us by the venerable
John Lauifer, we accept as approximately correct.
RELATIONS TO CHURCH AXD STATE.
The oldest Lauffers belonged to the Reformed Church, and
were loyal to the God of their Fathers. This was the State
Church oi the Palatine. They have hcen a churchly people, and
those not in the Reformed church have united with other protest-
ant denominations, as Lutheran and Presbyterian : they are known
as a God-fearing and a Church-loving: people.
Christian Lafiter was a zealous patriot: his son Adam served
under Washington, and Peter, being too small of stature to bear
arms in the service, was set to work during his term of enlist-
ment serving his country as a shoe maker. Henry is enrolled
among the "Rangers of the Frontiers" 1778-1783 for Westmore-
land County, ( Penn'a Archives Vol. XX III. p. 226, 3rd series).
John was under Captain Bonnet, of Mt. Pleasant, and joined in
pursuit of Indians who had murdered families along" Beaver Run.
Christian Jr.. and Barthol (who preceded Christian the pioneer,
into Westmoreland County), were among the defenders of the
Drumm Block House, south of Greensburg. The whole family
was concerned in the fight for freedom. And in the War of 1812,
the Mexican and Civil Wars, there were many to respond.
The power of the Indians was hroken on August 5th, 1763,
near Harrison City, Westmoreland Co.. by Colonel Boquet. The
Indian Chief Pontiac in thai year led the tribes north of the Ohio
against the English forts from Detroit to Ligonier. Col. Boquet
was sent to the relief of the forts of Western Penna. and having
raided he .-ii ge of Ft. Ligonier, he marched with a force of 500
Scotch Highlanders and Colonial Volunteers to the relief of Ft.
I'itt. En route he was drawn into an Indian ambuscade. Dark-
ness saved his army from terrible defeat. Next day he feigned
retreat, and drew the Indians into an ambuscade, and finally
routed them with great slaughter. The mighty Pontiac's grand
dream of Indian Empire was racked when his army was crushed
and scattered at Bushv Run.
The Lauffer History. ii
Yet petty Indian incursions, murders and theft, were rife un-
til after the War of 1812.
In 1871 the British in Canada projected an expedition against
Ft. Pitt. They were accompanied by Indians and Tories. Rein-
forcements for Ft. Pitt deterred them from attacking- that strong-
hold, but they divided ino small parties, and these detached bodies
fell on defenseless points along the western frontier. One such
mongrel band, numbering about 100 Tories and Indians was sent
against Han nas town, July 13, 1782. The settlers escaped within
the palisades of the fort, but the town was burned. This was
then the county seat of Westmoreland.
Gen. Harmer was defeated in Ohio in 1790. Col. Christopher
Truby, of Greensburg, accompanied him — the latter a relative of
the Lauffers. Gen. St. Clair on Nov. 4, 1791, was defeated in
the battle of the Wabrish. "Waynes victory at the battle of Fallen
Timber, 1795, forever broke the Indian power and gave peace to
the Westmoreland frontier."
We can be proud of our hardy pioneer ancestors, who crossed
the Alleghenies to hold the marauding Indians in check, to build
homes and protect the western outposts in the troublous days of
the American Revolution. Historians are slow to realize what
strategic work these Germans did, for the land of their adoption,
in the throes of its birth : their industry and enterprise cleared
farms and built homes, and produced provisions for themselves
and the inhabitants of the fort towns. And their bravery helped
crush the Indian power ; Gen. Boquet was Swiss-German, as were
many of the men under his command. They helped defend Ft.
Ligonier, Fort Drumm, Fort Walthour, Fort Hannastown, Fort
Pitt from the merciless savages and Tories in the British Service.
Had these outposts been lost in the American Revolution, our
country's claim to the Ohio and Mississippi would have been less
valid. For their retention, some honor is due our hardy German
ancestors.
The Lauffers of the past have been aggressive in business,
prudent, industrious, honest. They have been useful in church
and state. It is up to us to prove ourselves worthy scions of no-
ble ancestors.
THE DAUGHTERS OF CHRISTIAN, THE PIOXEER.
( hir efforts thus far have been confined to securing the fam-
ily records of the five sons of Christian, the Pioneer; the sixth,
Adam, was broken in health by his service under Gen. Washing-
ton and died soon after the Revolutionary War was over. We
will make brief mention of the five daughters of Christian, the
pioneer.
We have our information from Catharine, youngest daughter
of John. Sr., who is in perfect, mental health, and in powers of
memory is not inferior to her brother. John, the centenarian.
I. Elizabeth, married to Frederick Rice. They resided near
Pleasant Unity, Westmoreland Co.. and later removed to Ohio.
Grandmother Waugaman never saw this aunt; Elizabeth died
many years before her husband.
II. Susanna, whose husband's name was Simon Drumm,
farmer, and proprietor of one of Greensburg's firs«t hotels. She
lived with her children after her husband's death, especially with
Simon, the Grcensburg merchant. Gen. Richard Drumm. of
Washington, D. C, retired army officer, now in his eighties, is a
son of Simon Drumm, Jr., and grandson of Susanna Laft'er.
Grandmother Waugaman recalls a visit Simon Drumm and his
son, Simon, made (about 1840) to her father's, John Laffer, Sr.
III. Catharine, wife of Jacob Christman. She lived near
Pleasant Unity, Westmoreland Co., all her life time. She left a
large family, the record of which has not as yet been secured.
IV. Mary Laffer, married to Wentzell, ofMillersdale, West-
moreland Co., Pa., where some of her grandchildren still reside.
V. Magdalenna. tin- youngest, married to John Bash. They
lived along the Kiskiminctab River, on the tract of land that Adam
Laffer purchased, then sold to his father, Christian. See Land
Transfers, vol. 8, p. 526, office of Recorder of Deeds, ^Westmore-
land County, Pa.
AN INTERVIEW WITH GEN. RICHARD DRUMM.
On the evening: of Sept. 9, 1904, our Secretary interviewed
Gen. Richard Drumm, veteran of the Mexican and Civil Wars,
while he was visiting his sister, Miss Emily Drumm, of Greens -
burg.
The General's father was Simon Drumm, the well-known
merchant of Greenshurg, of 50 years ago, and his grandfather was
Simon Drumm, Sr., who was married to Susan Lauffer, daughter
of Christian, the Pioneer.
The General says that his grandfather and others of the con-
nection came into Westmoreland in 1770. The delayed growth
of Western Pennsylvania was due to disputed sovereignty over
the regions west of the Alleghenies, between the colonies of Vir-
ginia and Pennsylvania. Settlers had to pay taxes to both govern-
ments, and received protection against the Indians from neither.
When the dispute was settled in favor of Pennsylvania, the stream
of emigration from the Eastern counties set in, and the land was
acquired by settlers under Penn Grants. As to protection from
the Indians, the Quakers forced the frontiersmen to attend to
that matter themselves.
On the farm of Simon Drumm, just south of Greensburg, a
block house, built of logs and stone, was constructed, and with
long, tin horns the settlers were warned of the approach of bands
of savages, from Kittanning and towns on the Kiskiminetas.
This fort was large enough to include the house and spring,
and provisions were here stored so that they were able to endure
the siege : men with their wives and children took refuge in the
Diumm Block House, when the Indians came down upon them.
It was not until after the defeat of the Indians by Gen. Boquet
in the Manor Valley along Brush Run that the power of the Red
Men was broken in Westmoreland County.
The General recalls the great streams of immigration out of
Westmoreland into Ohio, when he was a boy, that carried so
many of our people into the middle west.
14 The LAUFFER History.
Ik remembers the old mill below the old German cemetery,
which belonged to Isaac Baer, who was married to Hannah
ffer, a daughter of Henry Lauffer. I lor brother Samuel he
well remembers: he opened a book store in Greensburg about
[835. He married a Cumberland Lady, sold out his business in
1 reensburg fo a Boughman, and embarked in (lie same business
or Wood Street. Pittsburg; his later record in the army, the Gen-
eral promised to look up f< r us.
There was a warm friendship between Henry Lauffer, Jr..
and Simon Drumm, "they called each other cousin." "my father
was alway> very fond of his Lauffer relatives." "Sam's father
and my father were very intimate." the General asserts.
He thinks Col. Christopher Truby (elsewhere mentioned)
was related to the Drumms and the Lauffers, for the daughter of
Christopher Trub) u-c<\ to call his father "Cousin Simon."
As to the source of our people he knows we are from the
latine, a < beautiful beyond anything: when General
Tourans was sent into it, its devastation was so complete that in
livering his report to the French monarch he could truthfully
say: "Sire 1 have not left a stick standing as big as that finger."
The people homeless, in destitution, came into the province
of Pennsylvania, to find civil and religions liberty, and a chance
to live. . ,
BARTOL LAFFER BRANCH.
From wills of Northampton Co., the will of Philip Drumm.
yoeman, of Moore Twp., probated Nov. 22, 1788, we learn that
his daughter, Mary Angle, was the wife of Bartol Lawfer. Also
that Simon, husband of Susanna LafTer, was the son of this
Philip Drumm. Father Drumm lies buried near the stump of a
big chestnut tree along the fence to the right of Old Stone
Church, three miles north of Seigfrieds, Pa.
Heir ruhen die Gebiene der Philip Drumm. Er war
geboren den 27, Sept. 1 721, und entschlief den 14 Nov. 1788.
Text war Luc 2 vers 29.
In the year 1880, about, Peter Piper, (an extensive traveler,
formerly of Greensburg). after a long journey through
the west, visited Hezekiah Waugaman. He told them that in
California he had met a very intelligent fellow by (he name of
Laffer, who said that he was a descendant of Bartol LafTer, 0/
Greensburg, and that Bartol had built the first brick house in that
town.
As proprietor of the saw mill and grist mill, and hotel prop-
erty, besides his real estate dealings, Bartol lived a very busy and
useful life in Greensburg. His son Peter was a steam boat pilot,
and was blown up in an explosion on the Ohio River shortly after
the War of 1812.
Another son of Barthol was Judge in Canton Co., Ohio. Si-
mon Lauffer, of Irwin, met Rev. P. A. Lauffer, of Meadville, and
tells us he is a grandson of Bartol, and served for some years as
President of Allegheny College. Dr. Cornelius C. LafTer, of
Meadville, is of the Bartol LafTer family, and a son of P. A.
LafTer.
Philip A. LafTer was born Sept. 30, 1837, (died Dec. 4,
1884), married July 24, 1862 to Ellen Weir Callender by Rev.
Samuel N. Callender. Address Meadville, Pa. Five children.
(1) Norma Callender LafTer born Nov. 16, 1863. Died Aug. 1,
1864. Interred at Meadville, Pa. (2) Philip Ernest LafTer
1 6 The Lauffer History
bom Aug. 29, 1865, married Oct. 1. [891 to Blanche Davenport.
Address, Parkersburg, W. Va. (3) Cornelius Callender Laffer,
n Sept. 10, 1867. married Sept. 1. [896, to Gertrude Sackett,
bv Rev. Austin M. Courtenay. Address, Meadville, Pa. Three
children.
(a) Frederick Sackett Laffer, born Aug. 27, [897.
(b) ( !orm lius C. Laffer, Jr.. born .Mar. 3rd, [809.
(c) Ellen Elizabeth Laffer, born Aug. 5, [902.
(4) Mary Evalyn Laffer, horn Feb. 28, 1S71. Address,
Meadville. Pa.
(5) Ellen Elizabeth Laffer, born Oct. 26, 1875. married
Dec. 2^, 1899, to Herman P>. Hogg. Address, Parkersburg, W.
Va.
Bartol also had daughters, and a son Henry. The latter
moved to Tuscarora, mar Philadelphia. The source of our infor-
mation is this: In the fall of 1824 John Lauffer, Jr.. of Harrison
City, the centenarian, and Frederick Steck, the father of Daniel
ok. a former sheriff of Westmoreland Co.. went afoot to Phila-
delphia with a drove of 170 cattle that were purchased in the
Manor Valley at from Sio to $12 per head.
It took five weeks to make the trip. John Lauffer, Jr.. on
this trip visited Henry, the son i>\ Bartol, and saw his sons and
daughters. His descendants no doubt are extant somewhere, and
it is sincerely hoped that their family records have been kept
car' . and may some day be annexed to mrs.
Wc do n )t know the year Bartol left Greensburg to go into
Ohio, but the venerable John Lauffer tells us, he went with the
gre?t stream of migration of 1812.
From the records of Westmoreland County we glean the fol-
lowing entri :s :
1. Bartel Lafer from Christian Lafer, Vol. I, p. 426: 20
May, 1785. Both of Mt. Pleasant Twp., Westmoreland Co.,
200 A. "on the waters of the Sewickley" for £450.
2. Bartel Lafer from Peter Cook. Vol. D. p. 430: Jan., 1791.
£170 for 1-3 of the tract in rTempfield Twp., Westmoreland Co.,
known as "'Cookery, Patent Book No. 12. p. 501.'' 80J/2 acres.
The Lauffer History. 17
3. Bartel Laffer from Robert Ralston. Vol. 2, p. 490: 3
Oct., 1706.
4. Bartel Laffer from Thomas Gilbert, Vol. 2, p. 492: 30
Oct., 1796.
5. Bartel Laffer from Margaret Wigton, Vol. 2, p. 506:
30 Oct., 1796.
6. Bartel Laffer from Andrew McCleu. Vol. 2, p. 508.
30 Sept., 1796.
7. Bartel Laffer from Isaac James. Vol. 2, p. 507: 3 Oct.,
1796.
8. Bartel Laffer from Henry Bareley, Vol. 2, p. 558: 3 Oct.,
1796.
9. Bartel Laffer from Alexander Bears, Vol. 2, p. 560: 19
May, 1796.
10. Bartel Laffer from William Smith, Vol. 2, p. 592: 3
Oct., 1796.
11. Bartel Laffer from Andrew Robinson, Vol. 2, p. 615: 3
Oct., 1796.
The early land deals of John Laffer, Sr., and John Laffer,
Jr., and John Lauffer, son of Henry, Sr.. are appended: —
1. John Laffer from Bartel Laffer. Vol. 2, p. 159: 3,
Apr., 1795.
Both resided in the town of Greensbtirg at the date of this
entry. For £300 a tract containing too \. "and all allowance of
six per cent, for woods and highways" is deeded over; Bartel Laf-
fer transfers to the said John Laffer the woods, water courses,
(dam, race, etc.), buildings, mills, and premises, and the said
Bartel Laffer for him and his heirs doth warrant and defend the
land and saw mill as aforesaid. This deed is of interest, showing
that John sawed lumber for building the town, when Bartol be-
came tavern keeper, Greensburg being a town "on the pike" where
stages stopped en route for Pittsburg and the west.
Vol. D, p. 435, shows that this land was conveyed to Bartol
Laffer 5 May, 1791, by Christopher Truby and Isabella, his wife;
and that the land was "a tract of land called Seat of Justice,"
1 8 Thk Lauffer History.
anted bv the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to Col. Christopher
Truby. Esqr., 25 Aug., 1790.
2. John Laffer from Alex. Cohean. \*ol. 7, p. 603 : 18 Mar.,
1 806.
3. John Laffer from Henry LafTer, Vol. 9, p. 261 : 13 Apr.,
1811.
4. John Laffer from John .Mellon, Vol. 16, p. 431 : 3 Apr.,
1826.
5. John Laffer from Philip Steinmate, Vol. id. p. 455: 3
Jan.. 1827.
6. John Laffer from A. W. Foster, Vol. 18. p. 413: 24 May,
1830.
7. John Laffer from Eliz. Long. Vol. 18, p. 414: 30 Apr..
1 S29.
8. John Laffer, Jr., from Aaron Teegarden's heir.-. Vol.
20, p. }^2\ 8 Apr., 1833.
9. John Laffer from Philip Stemity. Vol. 24, p. 6: 17 Oct.,
10. John Lauffer from Henry Lauffer. Vol. 29, p. 355: 23
Apr., 1847.
11. John Lauffer from Henry Lauffer. Vol. 41. p. 96: 2
Apr., 1S50.
12. John Lauffer et al., Trust from Susan Suetler. Vol. }3,
p. 630: 23 Mar., 1856.
1 5. John Lauffer et al.. Trust from Elizabeth Dick. Vol.
4/ : 21 Nov., 1856.
14. John Lauffer from Seth Lauffer. Vol. 42, p. 471: 30
1
15. John Lauffer from David Anderson. Vol. 50, p. 429:
1 Apr., [S64.
• the inten! of those concerned in titles to land we ap-
pend the following list, before i860: Henry, Sr., Henry, Jr., and
Henry Paul, son of the centenarian, are included:
:. Henry Laffer from Jacob Christman. Vol. 9, p. 262: 15
April, 1811. Both of Mt. Pleasant Tp. Elizabeth, wife of Jacob
Christman, was the daughter of Christian, the Pioneer — one of the
five daughters mentioned in our introduction.
The Lauffer History. 19
"Whereas the Honorable John Penn and Richard Perm, by
their attorney John B. Coates by their indenture bearing date of
24 Feb., 1806. did grant and confirm unto the said
Jacob Christman his heirs and assigns a certain tract of land sit-
uated in Mt. Pleasant Tp., Co. of Westmoreland, containing
1 35 '4 A. Vol. 7, p. 598.
Now this indenture WITNESSETH : That the said Jacob
Christman and Elizabeth his wife for and in consideration of Lyj.
4. S. paid to them by Henry Laffer, for which the receipt whereof
is hereby fully acknowledged, Do grant 31 A. of said
tract bounded by lands of Adam Hartzell & etc. To have
and to hold
2. Henry Laffer from David Silvies. Vol. 16, p. 41 : 5 Jan.,
1813.
3. Ilenrv Laffer from Jacob Baum. Vol. 25, p. 26: 15 Nov.,
i839-
4. Henry Lauffer from Henry Lauffer's heirs. Vol. 29, p.
355 : 23 Apr., 1847.
5. Henry Lauffer from Christian Pore. Vol. 34, p. 443 :
3 Feb., 1852.
6. Henry Lauffer from John Ygest, Vol. 6, p. 524: June.
i853-
7. Henry Lauffer from Joseph Baum. Vol. 40, p. 48; 288
Nov., 1844.
8. Henry Lauffer from John Williams. Vol. 40, p. 49: 27
June, 1843.
9. H. P. Lauffer from Steven Ridinger, Vol. 40, p. 531 : 7
Mar., 1857. Vol. 40, p. 531 : 7 Mar., 1857.
10. H. P. Lauffer from F. G. Oxlcy, Vol. 43, p. 411: 16
Aug., 1859.
For reference on the part of such as are interested in early
real estate deals recorded in the Register of Deeds office in
Greensburg, Westmoreland Co., Pa., we append the following: —
1. Christian Laffer from John Montgomery. Vol. D, p.
164: 17 Sept., 1789.
Christian, of Westmoreland Co., millwright, for £260 buys
20 The Lauffer History.
two tracts of land of John Montgomery, of Carlisle. 203 A. So
P., in Salem Twp., and 280 acres on the Kiskiminetas River.
2. Christian Laffer from Bartol Laffer. Vol. 2. p. 506: 20
Jan.. 1796. 55 acres in Hempfield Twp.
3. Christian Laffer from Adam Laffer. Vol. 8, p. 526: 20
Feb., 1708
Adam, of Allegheny Co., Christian, of Franklin Tp., West-
moreland County, situated on south side of Crooked Creek, for
£135. (This Adam is a son of Christian, the Pioneer). The land
in question — 389}^ A. in Armstrong Tp., was purchased for £1*90
of Matthew McDonnell, of Derry Tp., Westmoreland Co., at the
time Adam resided in Greenshurg. 22 Dec, 1796: \ ol. 8. p. ?2$.
4. Christian Latter from John Penn. Vol. 9, p. 434: 26
Nov., 181 1.
John Penn, Sr., through his attorneys, John P. Coates and
John B. Alexander, "acknowledges satisfaction on the margin of
the record of a certain mortgage from Christian Laffer to the
i John Penn and John Penn, Sr., the principal and interest
money secured to them by the said mortgage having been paid to
me, the said John P. Coates."
So many tempting tracts of choice land, led them to incur
bt, in their deals: the early Lafters were land sharks, and their
lings will show that they recognized ^hh] land when they
saw it. ' this time Christian, son of Christian, moved to
1 I Christian, n of John, Sr., son of Christian, the Pio-
5. Christian Laffer from David Gilleland. Vol. 24. p. 273:
10 Apr.,
I Christian Laff< r from George Ambrose. Vol. 26, p. 30:
24 May, iv'4t.
7. Christian Laffer from Samuel F. Earnest. Vol. 42, p.
98: 13 JUL . [858.
8. Christian Laffer from Jos. Knappenberger. Vol. 45, p.
270: 22 Mar.. 1841.
9. Christian Laffer from PL M. Robertson. Vol. 45, p.
272: 16 Mar. i860.
The Lauffer History. 21
jo. Christian LalTer from John Lafr'er. Vol. 65, p. 393: 31
Jan., 1828.
11. Christian Laffer from George Dctes. Vol. 147, p.
433: 7 Apr.. 1842.
12. Christian Laffer from John Kistler. Vol. 147, p. 433.
24 Apr., 1 84 1.
THE CHRISTIAN LAFFER BRANCH.
Christian, Jr., and Bartel were older than Henry and John,
and boih were married when they came into Westmoreland Co.
(Henry was 20 years old and John 5 years old when Christian,
the Pioneer, moved into Westmoreland Co., from Moore Two..
Northampton Co.
In the little cemetery on the Old Esquire Conthin farm, now
owned by Thad. W. Baum, near Pleasant Grove School House,
Pickaway Co., Ohio, is the grave of Christian LafTer, died Oct. 2,
1823, in the 53rd year of his age, and buried on the farm on
which he had lived. This date places his birth at 1770, which
would make Christian, Jr., younger than his brother John. Tf
that be true. John, the centenarian, is confused in his dates in tins
particular.
From the letter of Anna E. (Laufrer) Strayer, 1329 For-
sythe Ave., Columbus, Ohio, we learn substantially as follows: —
Christian Laffer, son of Christian, the Pioneer, married a
Miss Hooker while living in Pennsylvania. To them three sons
and two daughters were born, of whom three lived to advanced
age :
1. John Laffer, who married Susan Shook.
2. Susanna Laffer, married to Jacob 1 'elver, four children.
3. Jacob Laffer. married to Sarah Burke. Four children.
By a second marriage he was united with Elizabeth Teegar-
den (died Feb. 2T, 1826, aged 38 years, ii months and 5 days).
With the Teegardens he went to Madison Twp., Pickaway Co.. O.
To them were born seven children.
1. Christian Laffer. Married to Nancy Sloan. Nine chil-
dren.
2. Henry Laffer. Married to Hannah Van Horn. Ten
children.
3. Solomon Laffer. Married to Susanna Smith. Ten chil-
dren.
4. Eden LarTer. Married to Samuel Huff. Ten children.
The Lauffer History
5. Sarah Latter. Married to John Crossley. Seven chil-
dren.
6. Daniel Laffer. Married to Charity Woodring. Four
children.
7. Simon Laffer. Married to Millie Hetn per. Nine children.
Part oi our information of the Christian Lauffer branch we
derive from John Lauffer, the centenarian. In his earlier days
he described his trip into Ohio thus: "On the 1st of November,
1826, in company with Col. Paul Brinker, I took a steamboat at
Pittsburg- for Cincinnati. We arrived at the latter place at the
end of three days. A day or two later we started afoot for Day-
ton, Ohio, thence to Chilicothe, thence to Pickaway Co.. to visit
among the Teegardens, near St. Paul, Ohio, who had been pioneer
settlers in Westmoreland Co. After visiting a week among old-
time friends and relatives, the journey was resumed to Colnm»u«.
thence ro Wooster, Cleveland and Canton, 3! with friends
along' the way. From Canton to Rumley, a village on the Tus-
caroras River, thence to Steubenville by way <>{ Harmony, and
thence by way of Reaver Falls to Pittsburg. The whole journey
occupying about six weeks."
The children of Christian's first marriage are: —
1. John (Christiana, wife of John Laffer, died June ro,
1846, aged 21 years. S months, 22 days.)
2. Susanna.
3. Jacob. Died Sept. 9, 1846, aged 51 years. Sarah., his
wife, died Aug. 7, 1844, aged 53 years, 10 months.
These obituaries we have through Jacob R. Smith. Canal
Westchester, Ohio. R. F. D. No. 2. We have no data of de-
scendants.
The children of Christian's second marriage :
1. Christian Laffer. No data sent to us.
2. Henry Lauffer, the son of Christian, the son of Christian,
the pioneer, was born June 12, 1812, married Oct. 24, 1846, to
Hannah Van Horn, by Rev. Wagonhals. Died Aug. 29, 1897.
Interred at Lithopolis, Ohio. Member of St. Paul's Evan. Luth-
eran Congregation at St. Paul, Pickaway Co., Ohio.
He had a family of ten, whose families arc as follows : —
24 The Lauffer History.
I. Joseph II. Lauffer born Nov. 24. 1847. Married July 31,
70, to Mary Shaffer. Died March 10, 1881. Interred at Card-
ington, Ohio.
II. Sarah Caroline Lauffer. born July 9, 1849. married June
18, !v72. to George dinger, Duvall, Ohio, R. F. D. To them
w (. re born :
( 1) Pearl Pauline Ginger, Jan. 3, 1876. Married to Jessie
Cole Apr. 25, 1901, by Rev. M. F. Lauffer. Died Jan. 16, 1901.
Interred at Lithopolis. To them were horn Robert E. Cole. Feb.
23, 1902, died Feb. 2s. 1904, interred at Lithopolis, and Nellie
Cole, born July 15, 1903.
(2) Minor Bishop dinger, horn Jan. 25. 1878.
(3) Eva Hannah Ginger, born Dec. 15, 1879. Married
June 10, 1903, to Harley Spoyer.
. 1 Stella May Clinger, bom Sept. II, 1883. Died Nov. 8,
[885.
(5) John Henry Clinger, born July 26, 1885. Died Oct.
26, 1886.
(6) Waiter Lauffer Clinger, born Sept. 25, 1892.
III. Solomon Christian Lauffer. born June 12, 1851. Died
May 31, 1804. Interred at Lithopolis. Ohio.
Fourth in the family of Henry Lauffer. son of Christian, son
of Christian, the Pioneer, was: —
IV. John Eli Laufrer, born Nov. 30. 1852. Married July
11. 187s- t0 Ella Carter, by Rev. S. 1'. Mauger. To them were
born : —
1. Clarence Walter Lauffer. born Oct. I, 1882. Address
67 W. nth St.. Columbus, < 'bio.
2. Vernon Henry Lauffer. born Jul}- 14, 1884. Address,
Grovtport, Ohio.
3. Raymond Lllwin Lauffer. born Aug-. 27. 1891.
4. Don Gilbert Lauffer. born Jan. 14. 1896.
5. Orpha Claire Lauffer. born Jan. 16, 1898. The latter
three are at Bellefontaine, Ohio.
V. Mary Elizabeth Lauffer. born Dec. 25, 1855. Married to
David McKinley, Dec. 25, 1876. To them were born Elva Lo-
The Lauffer History. 25
raine McKinley, Jan. 18, 1877. Died Jan. 5, 1882. Bertie Mil-
lard McKinley, born June 16, 1S79.
VI. Roxy Jane Lauffer, born Jan. 27, 1858. Married May
I, 1885, to Solomon Adams by Rev. I. H. Schneider. Address,
Degraffe, Ohio. To them were born, — (1) Ethel May Adams,
May 14, 1886, died May 16, 1886. (2) Minor B. Adams, born
Dec. 18, 1 89 1, died Dec. 20, 1891. Both interred at Ray's ceme-
tery, Bloomheld Tp., Logan Co., Ohio.
VII. Emma Joana Lauffer, born Sept. 2T, i860. Died Sept.
25, 1879. Interred at Lithopolis, Ohio.
VIII. Irvin McClellen Lauffer, born Dec. 11, 1862. P. O.,
Bellefontaine, Ohio.
IX. Frances Christina Lauffer. born Dec. 4, 1864. Married
Dec. 9, 1880, to David McKinley. Died Dec. 21, 1881. Interred
at Lithopolis, Ohio.
X. Walter Jerome Lauffer, horn Oct. 4, 1871. Married
Jan. 1, 1896, to Lizzie Bell Cloud. P. O., Canton, O.
3. Solomon Teegarden Loffer, third son of Christian Laf-
fer, son of Christian, the Pioneer, and Elizabeth Teegarden.
Born 181 5, married 1836 to Susanna Smith by Rev. Wauganhultz.
To them were born ten children.
I. Sarah F. Loffer, born June 8, 1837, married Oct. 26,
1854, to Daniel X. Strayer by Rev. Adams, P. O., Degraff, Ohio.
To them were born ten children. (i)Solomon Lester Strayer, of
Pemberton, Ohio. Born April 6, 1856. Married July 4. 1883, to
Loucretia Clark. (2) Isadora Alvanine Strayer, born Jan. 12,
1858, Married April 15, 1902 to Adam King, of Sidney, O. (3)
Emma Katura Strayer, born Sept. 12, 1859, died Dec. 12, 1859.
(4) John William Strayer, of Bellefontaine, Ohio, born Xov. 15,
i860, married to Etta Shultz in 18S8. (5) Jacob Francis Strayer,
of Degraff, O., born April 21, 1863, married Oct. 1, 1884, to Ota
Derreese by Rev. E. B. Smith, to whom were born (a) Hazel E.
Strayer, June 26, 1886, and (b) Ethel J. Strayer, June 17, 1894.
(6) Ellen Rosa Strayer, born Oct. 1, 1865, married Feb. 28, 1889,
to Lester Roach, of Logansville, Ohio. (7) Daniel Harley Stray-
er, of Bellefontaine, Ohio, born Jan. 18, 1868, married Mar. 3,
1887, to Libbie Van Meter by Jacob Frantz, to whom were born
26 Thk Lauffkr History.
(a) Claude N. Strayer, Sept. 25, 1888. (b) Kay S. Strayer, Jan.
30, 1890, (c) Forest B. Strayer, May 22, 1900. (8) Emma Susan
Strayer, born April 1. 1870, married Sept. 29, 1891, to James Yo-
cum, of Mendon, Ohio. (9) \'irb Otho Strayer, born Nov. 11,
1872, married Nov. 5, 1896, to May Shidaker. P. ()., Delphos,
Ohio. (10) Minta Almada Strayer, born July 17, 1874, married
Oct. 26, 1893, to Charles Kaser, of Sidney, Ohio.
II. Anna E. Loffer, born Aug. 2, 1838, married Dec. 20,
1863, to F. \Y. Strayer, of Columbus, Ohio, by T. X. Smith. To
them were born (1) Francis I7.. Strayer, Dec. 16, 1864, married
Sept. 12, 1888, to Clara Young, I\ O., Degraff, Ohio. To them
were born: — (a) Floyd C. Strayer, May 15. 1889. (b) Mimner
D. Strayer, Nov. 18, 1890. (c) Wavel A. Strayer, Aug. 7, 1892.
(d) Harvey C. Strayer, March o, 1896.
(2) William F. Strayer, of Jackson Center, ()., born April
17. 18(7. married Oct. 15, [89S, to Sulla Cole. (3) Elma F.
Strayer, born ( ct. 22, 1872, married Jan. 6, 1892, to George Bunk-
er, of Degraff, ( 'bio. (4) Jesse Strayer, of Columbus, Ohio, born
May 15. 1879.
III. Francis M. [.offer, born Feb. 17, 1840, killed on the
battlefield at Pittsburg Landing, April 6, 1862.
IV. Elisha D. Loffer. born Sept. 24, 1S41 ; married in Oct.,
i860, to Elizabeth Jones. Died Aug. 28, 1878. Interred in Mis-
souri.
V. Jacob S. Loricr, born April 17. 1843, married in 18G6 to
Nancy Rea, and in 1884 to Minnie Idle; died Aug. 13. 1903. In-
terred at Degraff, Ohio.
VI. Christina Loffer, sixth in family of Solomon J. Loffer,
son of Christian, son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born March
19. 1845. .Married in June, 1866, to Johnathon Rea, of Quote,
Can oil Co.. Missiouri, by Rev. Isaac Smith. '\\> them were born
twelve children. (1) Nellie G. Rea, born March 7, 1867. Died
Aug. 24, 1887. (2) Lyman C. Rea, born Dec. 21, 1867, and mar-
ried Sept. 14, 1893. to Anna Power, P. O.. Dawn, Mo.. R. F. D.
No. 2. (3) H. T. Rea, of Kan- ■, ( ity. Mo., ! cm Sept. 30, 1870,
The Lauffer History. 27
married Feb. 26, 1895, to Minnie Wood. (4) Theodore Rea, born
Nov. 26, 1872. Died Dec. 26, 1873. Mt. Enon cemetery. (5) Mada
Rea, born Oct. 14, 1874, married Jan. 14, 1894, to Robert McAllis-
ter, of Holdenville, Ind. Ter., by John Leslie, Esq., to whom were
born Ruby McAllister Sept. 30, 1895, and Leslie McAllister Jan.
26, 1897. (6) Christina's sixth child is Reuben Rea, of Dawn,
Mo., R. F. D. 2, born Nov. 18, 1876. Married Nov. 28, 1897, to
Minnie Snodgrass. (7) Bessie Rea born Nov. 9, 1878, married
Nov. 13, 1896, to C. 1 1. Stewart, of Plymouth, Mo., whose chil-
dren are (a) Iva May Stewart, born Aug. 5, 1897, (b) Eunice
Leah Stewart born Feb. 7, 1899, (c) Willard Stewart, born Dec.
16, 1900, (d) Leone Marae Stewart born Sept. 13, 1903.
(8) Early Rea, of Braymer, Mo. (9) Ellen Rea, born Oct.
21, 1882, P. O., Kansas City, Mo. (10) Jennie Rea, born Aug.
14, 1884. Died Dec. 12, 1803. Mt. Enon Cemetery. (11) Beu-
lah Rea, born Aug. 19, 1886. P. O., Chillicothe, Mo., (12) Rus-
sell Rea, born Oct. 22, 1888. P. O., Braymer, Mo.
VII. Ellen M. Loft'er, born Feb. 28, 1847. Died Aug. II,
1863. Interred Bloom Centre, Ohio.
VIII. Christian Loffer, born Jan. 25, 1849. Married Oct.,
1871, to Alice Jackson and in 1902 to Martha Hammer. P. O.
Degraff, Ohio.
IX. Henry S. Loffer, born Nov. 20, 1850. Married in
1874 to Orvilla Woods. Died June 10, 1904. Interred at De-
graff, Ohio.
X. Solomon E. Loffer. youngest in the family of Solomon
T., son of Christian, son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Nov.
14, 1853. Married Dec. 27. 1877, to Evire Bunker by Rev. Ed-
ward G. Whitiock. P. O., Degraff, O. To them were born (1)
Ethie Loffer, Dec. 20, 1878. (2) Bessie Loffer, March 30,
1882. (3) O. Kay Loffer July 19, 1884. (4) Floyd Loffer,
Feb. 1, 18S7. (5) Amy Loffer March 21, 1892.
4. Ellen Laffer, daughter or Christian, son of Christian, the
pioneer, to Samuel Huff, ten children. No data received.
5. Sarah Laffer, daughter of Christian, son of Christian,
the Pioneer, to John Crossley, seven children. No data received.
28 Thk Lauffer History.
6. Daniel LafFer, son of Christian, the son of Christian, the
Pioneer, to Charity Woodring, four children. No data received.
7. Simeon Laffer, son of Christian, the son of Christian, the
Pioneer, to Millie Hemper, nine children. No data received. P.
O. is Ogden, Bloom Co., Io*va.
c
O
c
c
j.
0>
X
y.
THE JOHN LAUFFER BRANCH.
John Lauffer, Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born
March 8, 1769, in Northampton Co., Pa., and was a boy of five.
years when his father migrated into Westmoreland Co. In the
\ear 1794 he moved on a tract of land north of Harrison City, a
portion of which has since been known as the Hezekiah Wauga-
man farm. We have inserted a few more of the Lauffer land
deals, as contained in the records of Westmoreland Co., Greens-
burg", Pa., as suggestive of the business enterprise of the early
Lauffers in Westmoreland County.
His tombstone in the Denmark Manor Cemetery, Penn Tp.,
Westmoreland Co., bears this inscription : In memory of John
Lauffer, Sr., died Feb. 18, 1851. Aged 81 years, 11 months, 10
days.
John Lauffer, Sr., was a very careful man in the matter of
keeping an accurate family record. In his huge German Bible
with its wooden lids covered with leather, he jotted down the.
dates of birth of his children as they were born. His estate was
settled in 1856 after the death of his wife Barbara in 1855. Geo.
Ashbaugh, son-in-law, and his son, Christian, were the executors.
The whereabouts of that old Bible the descendants of neither
Christian Lauffer nor George Ashbaugh can inform us. This old
Bible may be no longer in existence. It simply shows the neces-
sity of the publication of some such history as this to keep old
records together, if we are to know in the later times, just
Who-is-Who in the great Lauffer family.
John Lauffer, Sr., was the father of fourteen children.
Born of Susanna, nee Kemerer, first wife of John, Sr., who
died Nov. it, 1815, aged 41 years.
1. Elizabeth.
2. Susanna
3. Mary
4. Christian
5. Daniel
3° The Lauffer History
6. John, Jr.
7. Simeon
8. Seth
9. Hettie
10. Henry
11. Jacob
12. Sarah
Born of Barbara, nee Erret, second wife of ]ohv., Sr.
13. Hannah
14. Catherine
Elizabeth Lauffer, daughter of John, Sr., son of Christian,
the Pioneer, was born in 1705 and died in Sept. 1843. She was
married in June, 1823, to Henry Beamer, Sr.. who died Dec. 17,
1856, in the sixty-second year of his age. Both are interred at
the Beamer church, now called Olive, near Murraysville. They
lived along Puckety Run in Franklin Tp. on the present Ei-
wood farm. To them were born seven children.
1. John Beamer, son of Elizabeth Lauffer, daughter of John,
Sr., son of Christian, the pioneer, was born Dec. 3, 1824. Mar-
ried April 5, 1848, to Nancy Rubright t^Lwrn Dec. 10, 1818), by
Rev. Voigt. Both are in good health and live at West Newton,
Pa. He is a carpenter and still works at his trade. To them
were born five children, (i.) Catherine E. Beamer, born Dec.
31, 1848, married Oct. 28, 1873, to H. H. Silvis, 6745 Atwell
St.. E. E. Pittsburg, Pa. (2.) Mary Beamer, born Aug 6, 1850,
married March 20, 1873, to John Silcox, 129 E. Peach St., Con-
nellsville, Pa. To them were born (a) Frank C. Silcox, April
13, 1874, married Feb. 25, 1898, to Margaret Smith, P. O.
Dunbar, Pa. (b) Edward H. Silcox, born Feb. 13, 1876. (c).
Albert S. Silcox. born June 30, 1877, married March 6, 1900, to
Blanch Renner, to whom were born Sophia Irene Silcox Nov. 29,
1903, John Gilbert Silcox, Apr. 28, 1901. (d) Lucy M. Silcox,
born Sept. 24, 1880. (e) Oliver H. Silcox born Apr. 21, 18S2.
(f) Susannah M. Silcox, born Nov. 5, 1884. (3) Nancy J.
Beamer, born May 15, 1854, married Apr. 4, 1872, to Thomas
Rohland. Died Sept. 29, 1899. To them were born (a) Mary
Crowshore Rohland Sept. 20, 1873, married Oct. 2, 1900, to
■
The Lauffer History. 31
Jonas Miller, of Toronto, Ohio, (b) Margaret Christiana Roh-
land, born July 16, 1875, married Oct. 10, 1899, to Cyrus Markle,
of Greensburg, Pa., by Rev. E. K. Bailey, to whom were born
Mary Jane Markle, May 24, 1900, Margaret Anne Markle May
30, 1903. (c) George C. Rohland, born Nov. 25, 1877, married
Oct. 21, 1903. to Olga E. Johnson, P. O. West Newton, Pa. (d)
Thomas J. Rohland, born June 4, 1882, P. O. West Newton, Pa.
(4) Susannah C. Beamer, born Oct. 31, 1855, married Dec. 25,
1888, to W. P. Warrick, of West Newton, Pa. (5) Barbara El-
len Beamer, born June 17, 1859; married June 11, 1877, to E. C.
Oliver, of West Newton, Pa. To them were born (a) Lou Ella
Oliver, May 8, 1878; married May 8, 1900, to George Mahar, of
Donora, Pa. To them was born John Oliver Mahar, Sept. 2,
1902. (b) Elmer Soles Beamer Oliver, born Jan. 19, 1880, Char*
leroi, Pa. (c) Edgar Clarence Oliver, March 30, 1882, West
Newton, Pa.
II. Henry Beamer, second son of Elizabeth LaufTer was
born Aug. 29, 1826. Married Aug. 29, 1852, to Juliana Mari.i
Burger. They celebrated their Golden Wedding Aug. 29, 1902.
He was a m erchant until 1863, when he moved on his present
farm in Penn Tp., north of Harrison City. To them were born
(1) Josephine Louisa Beamer, born June 2, 1855; married June
27, 1872, to II. A. LaufTer, a son of Jacob F., a son of Henry, Jr.,
son of Henry, Si., son of Christian, the Pioneer. Four children.
Infant son, Charles A., Maude J. S., Raymond A. (2.) Margaret
Elizabeth Beamer, born March 30, 1857. (3.) Annetta Clarissa
Beamer, born Nov. 19, 1859; married March 11, 1879, to Elijah
Kemerer, of Turtle Creek, Pa. To them were born Henry J.
Kemerer. who died Aug. 22, 1903, agd 20 years, and 9 months.
Grace Julia Kemerer, born Feb. 1, 1885, Eva Zuella Kemerer,
born May 6, 1887. (4) Henry George Beamer, born Sept. 17,
1863, married Dec. 24, 1896, to Mary Wagoner, P. O. Manor,
Pa. To them were born Russell Wagner Beamer, Nov. 29, 1897.
Henry George Beamer, born July 28, 1899. Ruth Julian Beamer,
born Aug. 1, 1902. Mary Elizabeth Beamer, born Jan. 7, 1904.
TIL Seth Beamer, son of Elizabeth LaufTer, daughter of
John Sr.,son of Christian, the pioneer, was born July 5, 1828.
32 The Lauffer History.
Married to Maria Ludwick. His widow lives near Sardis, Pa.
To them were born five children. Joseph (died in 187(1), Wil-
liam, of Apollo, Miles, Zone and Alvin Beamer. No data sent in.
IV. Jacob 1 '.earner, fourth son of Elizabeth Lauffer, the
daughter of John Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born
March 22, 1830. Married March 22, 1853, to Susanna Brinker
(born Sept. 3, 1835, died July 2T,, 187.2 ) and to Mary J. Hunter,
Sept. 30, 1875, (horn Feb. 2, 1847). 1° them were born eleven
children, eight by first marriage, three by the second: (1.)
Emma Caroline Beamer, born Apr. 19, [854, married July 21,
1874, to John Best of Jeannette, Pa., by Rev. W. \V. Morehead.
To them were born (a) Lillian Best, July 18, 1875. Married
June 28, 1900, to George E. Evans, 26 Meyran Ave., Allegheny,
Pa., to whom were born Eleanor Rose Evans, May 20. 1902,
Mildred Josephine Evans, Nov. 13. 1903. (b) Paid Kirk Best,
born Eeh. 22, 1880, Veteran of Spanish American War ; mar-
ried in 1904, to Elizabeth Mecbah. Resides in Allegheny, Pa.
(c) His twin sister, Anna, died Jul}' T9, 1880, and is buried in
Brush Creek cemetery, (d) Charles M. Best, born March 19,
1881. Married June 11, 1902, to Be.Cc Meyers. Reside in
Moncssen, Pa. To them was born Helen Best, (e) Philip C.
Best, born June 29, 1888, died Aug. 4, 1888. (f) Melissa R.
Best, born July S, 1886 and (g) Marquis De Witt Best, born
Dec. 26, 1891. (2.) Marcia Rosalia Beamer. born June 18,
1856. Married Sept. 30, 1875, to E. L. Grable, of Manor, Pa.,
Rev. T. F. Boyd. To them were born (a)' Osman Arlington
Grable, Aug. 26, 1876, (b) Cora Elvin Grable, Nov. 16. 1879.
Married Dec. 21, 1904, to Homer Caldwell, of Manor, Pa., by
Rev. Calhoun, (c) Alvin Clifford Grable. Aug. 23, 1888. (d)
Prances Willard Grable Nov. 26, 1892. (e) Susannah Rosalia,
Dec. 24, 1895. (3) Paul Brinker Beamer, born July 18, 1858,
died Sept. 20, 1858. (4.) Ellen Melissa Beamer, born June 11,
3860, married to J. S. Best, now deceased. She resides
at 6230 Station St., E. E., Pittsburg, Pa. One daugh-
ter, S. Pearl Best, born July 18, 1886. (5) Asaph Tyng Beamer,
born Oct. 31, 1862. Married to Anna Augusta Ekas, now de-
ceased. He died Nov. 4, 1896. Both are interred at Brush
The Lauffer History. 33
- ■- ■ ■ r —
Creek. (6) William Spurgeon Beamer, born Sept. 25, 1865.
Married to Annetta Cochran. One daughter, Pauline. Resides
in Apollo, Pa. (7) Clara Pumilla Beamer, born June 22, 1868;
married March 25, 1886, to William F. Brinker, of Manor. Pa., by
Rev. Moorehead. To them were born Curtis M., June 8, 1887, Lu-
cy F., Jan. 30, [889, Pauline L., Dec. 14, 1892, Vivian M., Apr. 26,
1895, Clara, May 8, 1896. (8) John Franklin Beamer, born
July 20, 1872, died Sept. 5, 1872. (9) Lillie May Beamer, born
Nov. 2, 1877. Died Mar. 2, 1885. (10) James Hunter Beamer.
of Monessen, Pa., born Sept. 9, 1880, married to Alice Rep-
pert; to them were born James Reppert Beamer and Elizabeth
Jane Beamer. (11) Mary Belle Beamer, born Feb. 21, 18S7,
Manor, Pa.
V. Michael I 'earner, fifth son of Flizabeth, was born Jan.
i<\ [832; married Sept. 12, 1854, to Susannah Ludwick (bom
Apr. 24, 1834, died Jan. 20, 1857), and Jan. 26, 1858, to Marga-
ret Burger (horn March 2~, 1838) by the Rev. N. P. Hacke.
( • •• child 1>; first marriage, three by the second: (1) James A.
Beamer, born July 10, 1855; married in the spring of 1879 to
Sarah Laufler, daughter of Jacob F., of the Henry Lauffer
branch. Two daughters. Blanche and Margaret. P. O. Tyrone,
. (2) Alice Almyra Beamer, born June 6, 1859. Died July
14, [862. (3) William John Beamer, born Feb. 23, 1862. Mar-
ried in the fall of T8S4 to Lulu Loughner. Two children, Lucy
1 haul. He is associated with his father in the Beamer
Handle Company, of Manor, Pa. (4) Charles Levan Beamer, born
July 26, 1870. Died July 18, 1872.
VI. Sarah Beamer, born May 17, 1834. Married Oct. 12,
1854, to Andrew J. Silvis, (born 1827, died 1857) by Rev. N. P.
Hacke and Nov. 8, 1859, to Adam Drake (born 1835) by Rev.
J. Dallas. One son, Albert J. Silvis, born Mar. 14, 1856, died
at tl^e age of 14 years, 8 months and 11 days.
VII. Susanna Beamer, youngest daughter of Catherine
Lauffer, died in Oct. 1843, aged three years and three months.
2. Susannah Lauffer, daughter of John Lauffer, Sr., son of
Christian, the Pioneer, was born in 1796, married in 1823 to
34 The Lauffer History.
William Shumaker, of Arona, Pa., and died in 1844. To them
were born six children.
1. John Shumaker, born 1824; died 1873. Buried at Sea-
nor's cemetery. Single.
[I. Catherine Shumaker, daughter of Susanna Lauffer,
daughter of John, Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born
in 1825. married in 1845. t0 Conrad Bossart by Rev. Michael
Steck. Resides at Arona, Pa. To them were born six children.
(1) Mary Bossart, born Nov. 29, 1846. Married May 3, 1864,
to Michael Earhart (born Jan. 29, 1839). To them were born
15 children, (a) Alice C. Earhart, born Mar. 30, 1865, married
Oct. 2. 1884, to Edward F. Errett, of Arona, Pa., to whom are
born seven children. Newton Errett, Sept. 25, 1885 ; Lizzie M.
Errett, July 5. 1887; Bessie M. Errett, March 13, 1889; James
F. Errett, July 13, 1892: Willie B. Errett, Dec. 13, 1897; infant
son, Nov. 17, died Nov. 20, 1899, Harrold's Hill church ; Wal-
ter F. Errett, Nov. 15. 1901. (b) Emma I. Earhart, born Apr.
?2, 1866, married Jan. 14, 1886, to Alexander T. Long, (c)
IVlary E. Earhart, born Dec. 13, 1867, married Dec. 27, 1883,
' to Geo. P. Thompson, (d) Edward G. Earhart, born Nov. 10,
1869, married Apr. 22, 1896, to Emma Shulty. (e) William
• C. Earhart. born Nov. 10, 1869. (f) Franklin M. Earhart,
born Oct. 30, 1872. (g) Dora A. Earhart, born June 4, 1873,
married May 2^. 1895, to Frank Earhart. (h) Michael M. Ear-
hart, horn Feb. 26, 1875, died in infancy, (i) Minnie L. Earhart,
born Mar. 11, 1876, married May 3, 1899, to Harry McNelly.
Agnes Roburta Earhart, bom Mar. 14, 1878, married Aug.
14, I903, to Samuel C. Ruff. Resides at Madison, Pa., and has
three children: Lillian A. Ruff, born Sept. 4, 1900, Sara A. Ruff,
born June 19, 1902, Beatrice Ruff, born July 25, 1904. (k) John
D. Earhart, born May 9, 1880. (1) Ezra M. M. Earhart, born
Feb. 9, 1882. (m) Tressa M. Earhart, born July 27, 1885, mar-
ried June 23, 1903, to Samuel G. Gettemy, of South Greens-
burg, Pa., to whom was born Mary C. Gettemy, Dec. 10, 1904.
(n) Sara E. Earhart, born Jan. 13, 1887. (o) James F. Ear-
liart, born Aug. 6, 1891. (No data of other grandchildren
received.) (2) George O. Bossart, born May 23, 1848. Mar-
ried in 1867 to Mary Myers by Jonas Meckling and in 1872 to
The Lauffer History. 35,
Agnus Kuhns, by David Shearer ; to them were born eleven
children: (a) Mary Elizabeth, born Jan. 18, 1869, married June
13, 1893 to H. M. Highburger, of West Newton, Pa., to whom .
were born in fant son, March 15, died March 27, 1896; Florence
M. Highburger, Nov. 30, 1897; William R. Highburger, Dec.
23, 1899; George Highburger, Oct. 20, 1903. (b) Noris Logan
Bossart, born July 18, 1873; married to Sue Irene Allshouse, ,
lives in Adamsburg, Pa. (c) Cora Catherine Bossart. bom
June 19, 1876, married to George Cam, of Arona. (d) Leah
Agmus Bossart, born Dec. 1, 1877, married to N. O. Shupe, of
Madison, Pa. (e) Emma Grace Bossart, born Oct. 3. 1879,
married to Louis Hax, of Turtle Creek, Pa. (f) Lucretia
1 larfield Bossart, born Aug. 6, 1881. (g) George Wagoner
Bossart, born Feb. 7. 1883. (h) Ruphus Philemon Bossart,
lorn May 7, T885. (i) William Kuhns Bossart, born Oct. 25.
1887. (j) Clara Helen Bossart, born July 11, 1892. (k) Paul
Orner Bossart, born Jan. 7, 1896. (3) William Bossart was
born in 1850, lives at Arona, Pa., and has six children. JSfo
report. (4) Catherine Bossart, the fourth of Catharine's chil-
dren, was born in 1854 and died in 1902. She like Leah and
Elizabeth, is interred at Brush Creek. She was married first
in May, 1874, to J. W. Miller, of Arona, to whom she had
three children, and on Feb. 10, 1884. was married to G. W
Miller, to whom she had five children, (a) Irwin C. Miller,
born Sept. 28, 1865. (b) Mary E. Miller, born May 5, 1878.
(c) Clifford E. Miller, born Apr. 22, 1880. (d) Alva L. F. Mil-
ler, born Dec. 7, 1884. (e) Wade H. Miller, born Dec. 22, 1888.
(f) Ira Minta M. Miller, born Mar. 18, 1891. (g) Geo. W.
Miller, born May 10, 1893. (h) Leon S. Miller, born June 4,.
'895. (5) Leah Bossart. born 1852, died 1878 single. (6) Eliz-
abeth, born 1856, died 1862.
III. William Sluunaker, third child of Susannah Lauf-
fer, has a son, Arthur, in Pittsburg, Pa., and a son Frank, at
Arona, Pa., from whom we received no data. William Shu-
maker was born in 1828, died in 1894. Is buried at Seanor's
IV. Simeon Shumaker was born in 1830.
36 Thk Lauffer History
V. Jacob Shumaker was born in 1832. Died in 1865.
Buried o\ S< n >r's.
VI. Joseph Shumaker born 1834. Died 1873. Buried at
Seanor's. Two sons in Arena. William and Cyrus, from whom
we received no report.
3. Mary Lauffer, daughter of John Sr., son of Christian,
the Pioneer, was born Apr. 9, 1798, married Oct. 19, 1820, to
George Ashbaugh by the Rev. X. P. Hacke. (lie and Christian
Lauffer as before stated were the executors of the John Lauf-
fer. Sr., estate.) To them were born eleven children. I. Samuel
Ashbaugh, son of Mary Lauffer, was born July 21, 1821.
Whereabouts not known. IT. George Ashbaugh, born Dec. 14,
1823. Married May 14. 1846, to Charlotte McMasters. (Born
Apr. 30, 1828, died Dec. 23, 1899. Interred at Long Run
Cemetery.) He died Jan. 14, 1850, and is interred at the
Denmark Manor Cemetery. To them were born two children:
(1.) Mary Eliza Ashbaugh, born March 30, 1847. Married
Nov. 26. 1863, to Jacob Hershey. Died March 25, 1880. In-
terred at Long Run Cemetery. To this marriage seven chil-
dren were born; (a) IdaMay Hershey. born Apr. 2/, 1865.
married June 16, 1892, to Chas Vial, of Braddock, Pa., whose
family consists of John Clinton Vial, born June 21, 1896, Edna
May Vial, born Sept. 22. 1898, Chas. Allen Vial, born Feb. 14,
1904. (b) George II. Hershey, born March 10, [867, married
Feb. 27. 1895, t0 Katy New. They reside in Pittsburg. Pa. (c)
Charles B. Hershey, born Feb. 18, 1869, died Nov. 3, 1881. In-
terred at Long Run. (d) Frank B. Hershey, born Feb. 17,
1871, married Oct. 21, 1897, to Evelyn Detrick by Rev. D. A.
Souders. To them were born Ruth Eleanor Hershey, Sept.
I, 1900. Mildred Evelyn Hershey, June 24, 1904. (e) John C.
Hershey, born Feb. 19th, 1873, married in June 1900, to Lana
Hammerly. Resides in Braddock, Pa. (f) Maggie Oskin Her-
shey, born Dec. 25, 1875, an(l married Dec. 7, 1895, to Thomas
Hutchinson, of Irwin, Pa., by Rev. D. A. Souders, to whom
were born Jacob C. Hutchinson, June 19, 1897, Mary E. Hutch-
inson, March 27,, 1900. (g) Wilbur Forde Hershey, born May
29, 1877, married Oct. 10, 1900, to Linnie Daugherty, of Irwin,
The Lauffer History. 37
Pa., by Rev. D. A. Souders. (2) Margaret A. Ashbaugh, bor»
Sept. 21, 1850, married Feb. 17, 1870, to William Oskin, 1
Moody St., Braddock Pa., by Rev. Barclay. To them were born.
five children: (a) Edward L. Oskin, born Jan. 9, 1871. (b)
Charles S. Oskin, July 17, 1873, died Dec. 13, 1873. (c) Ar-
thur H. Oskin, born Jan. 21, 1875, died Aug. 2, 1890. Both in-
tered at Braddock. (d) Daniel H. Oskin, born Aug. 14, 1877,
married May 21, 1902, to Olive G. Harding, by Rev. William
McKenna, 635 Lilly Ave., Braddock. (e) Clyde H. Oskin, born
Nov. 10, 1885.
III. John Ashbaugh, son of Mary Lauffer, was born Dec.
24, 1823, married Dec. 14, 1848, to Catharine Hill (born May
29, 1828, died June 3, 1878, interred at Olive church.) by Rev.
N. P. Hacke. He died Feb. I, 1882, and is interred at Brush
Creek. He was the father of eight children. (1) George Ash-
baugh, born Dec. I, 1849, died Apr. 12, 1852, interred at Olive
church. (2) Henry Ashbaugh, of Export, Pa. (3) Sarah A. Ash-
baugh, born June 2T,, 1854, married in 1871 to Josiah Martz
of Sardis, Pa. (Josiah Martz was born Aug. 16, 1848, and is
the father of nine children:) (a) Minnie M. Martz, born Apr.
10, 1874, married Feb. 21, 1900, to Hugh McWilliams, of Tur-
tle Creek, Pa., by Rev. T. R. Dietz. Two children, Wayne
Martz McWilliams, born 1900, infant daughter born 1905. (b)
Clyde C. Martz, born Dec. 13, 1876. (c) Idella I. Martz. born
May 4, 1879, died Sept. 25, 1897. (d) Lizzie L. Martz, born
Mar. 20, 1881. (e) Nettie P. Martz, born Apr. 7, 1884. mar-
ried Nov. 5, 1902, to Benjamin Walker, Turtle Creek, Pa.
(f) Alva R. Martz, born Feb. 6, 1886. (g) Curtis S. Martz,
born Jan. 25, 1889. (h) Philip E. Martz, born June 9, 1891.
(i) W'illiam W. Martz, born Aug. 22, 1895. (4) Philip H.
Ashbaugh, born Apr. 5, 1856, married Mar 10, 1877, to Mary
E. Davidson, b> Rev. Gray. She died July 14, 1878, and is
buried at Hill's church. To them were born Mary C. Ash-
baugh, Jan. 8, 1S78, died Mar. 4, 1879, also interred at Hill's.
He was again married Dec. 21, 1882, to Mary E. Martz, by
Rev. J. F. Snyder. (5) Mary C. Ashbaugh, born May 11,
1858, married Nov. 24, 1878, to James H. Smith by Rev. Kirk.
The Lauffer History.
Married again Oct. 23. 1890. to William H. Feightner by Rev. H.
H Boyd. P. O. Hot Springs, Garland Co., Ark. (6) Margaret
A. Ashbaugh, born Oct. 13, i860. Died July 11, 1878. Interred
at Hill's Church. (7) William J. Ashbaugh, born June 22, 1862,
died Aug 17, 1891. Interred at Greensburg, Fa. (8) Nancy
0. Ashbaugh, married to Benjamin Rubright, of Export, Fa.,
F. D. 1.
IV. Annie Ashbaugh, daughter of Mary Lauffer, daughter
John. Sr., son of Christian, the rionecr, was born Feb. 29,
26, married Apr. 2, 1846, to Henry Good by Rev. X. P. Hacke.
To them were born five children: (1) John Good born Jan. 20,
184-. killed in the Civil War Feb. 7. 1865. (2) Mary E. Good
born Jan. 26, 1849, married Nov. 26, 1867, to Lebbeus Brinker, of
Bonnet, Fa., by Rev. N. P. Hacke. To them were born eight
•children: (a) Spurgeon A. Brinker born May 9, 1869, married
Dec. 12, 1894, to Minerva R. Berlin. Resides in Export, Pa.
(b) Victor I. Brinker, born Oct. 5, 1870, of Vandergrift Heights,
Pa. He was married Oct. 18, 1892, to EfHe Pool by Rev. Van
Cleft, to whom were born Herbert J. Brinker July 1, 1894, Avard
S. Brinker Apr. 10, 1897, Gladys W. Brinker Aug. 5, 1899. (c)
Minnie L. Brinker born May 2, 1873, married Jan. 12, 1898, to
1. E. Berlin, of Export, Pa., by Rev. J. M. Evans. To them was
born Allison J. Berlin Apr. 25, 1903. (d) Myrtle A. Brinker,
born Jan. 20, 1876, married Nov. 9, 1904. to W. H. Glunt, of Ex-
p irt, Pa., by Rev. J. E. Sheetz. (e) Alice M. Brinker born
Dee. 25, [878 Married June 18, 1903, to Howard W. Dewalt, of
Claridge, Pa., by Rev. J. M. Evans, (f) Willis B. Brink er
born June 25, 1879, of Philadelphia, Pa. (g) Paul H. Brinker
born May 14, 1882, of Boquet, Pa. (h) Alpheus Carlton
Brinker born Oct. 23, 1883, died July 24, 1884, interred at Den-
mark Manor. (3) Israel E. Good born Nov. 13, 1852, married
Jan. 9, 1873, to Frances M. Wigle, for which see Christian Lauf-
fer. son of John, Sr., section. (4) Margaret A. Good born
Apr. 2_j, 1859, married Dec. 25, 1879, to A. D. Kiester, of Car-
negie, Pa., by Rev. J. F. Snyder. To them were born six chil-
dren : Anna Mable Kiester, May 22, 1881, Henry Raymond
Kiester, Aug. 4, 1883, died Oct. 8, 1898. Frank Clinton Kiester
born Oct. 13, 1888, died July 15, 1904. Both interred at Char-
The Lauffer History. 39
tiers Cemetery. Alice Kiester born Dec. 9, 1890, died Mar. 2,
1 89 1, interred at Versailles. Twins Alvin Good Kiester and Ab-
ner Alan Kiester, born April 3, 1895. (5) William J. Gooci
born Apr. 29, 1865, married Oct. 1, 1902, to Anna M. Byrely by
Rev. J. M. Evans. Resides at Export, Pa.
V. Joseph Ashbaugh, born May 18, 1827. Single. Date
of death not known to us.
VI. David Ashbaugh, son of Mary Lauffer, daughter of
John, Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Mar. 15, 1829,.
died June 9, 1904. Married to Susan Hill, born May 5, 1833.
P. O., Sardis, Pa. To them were born twelve children. (We
corresponded, but did not secure the names of grand children.)
(1) William J. Ashbaugh born July 28, 1856, Aurora, Neb.
(2) Hiram P. Ashbaugh born Dec. 24, 1856, Aurora, Neb.
(3) Henry G. Ashbaugh, March 11, i860, Oakmont, Pa.
(4) David F. Ashbaugh. born Oct. 15, 1861, Shenandoah, Iowa.
(5) Susan S. Ashbaugh, born Aug. 21, 1863, Natrona, Pa.
(6) Reuben C. Ashbaugh. June 17, 1865, of Shenandoah, Iowa.
(7) Lucy A. Ashbaugh, born Nov. 15, 1867, of Shenandoah,
Iowa. (8) Martin L. Ashbaugh, born Nov. 11, 1869, of Minco,
Ind. Ter. (9) Maggie E. Ashbaugh, born July 17, 1871, Mc-
Keesport Pa. (10) Alice P. Ashbaugh, born Apr. 23, 1873.
Cole, Mont. (11) Simon P. Ashbaugh, born Apr. 11, 1875, Al-
legheny, Pa. (12) James S. Ashbaugh, born Aug. 18, 1878,
Sardis, Pa. In the letter that accompanies David Ashbaugh's
chart, he says there are twenty-eight of the thirty-one grandchil-
dren living.
VII. Henry Ashbaugh, son of Mary Lauffer, was born
Nov. 1, 183 1, died Jan. 23, 1901. Interred at Denmark Manor
Cemetery. He was married to Elizabeth Good, who died Feb.
20, 1874. By this union he had twelve children. He was agaie
married to Sarah Snyder, of Jeannette, Pa., by whom he had
three children. (i)Henry John Ashbaugh born Dec. 27, 1855,
died July 3, 1859. (2) Mary Jane Ashbaugh born Apr. 23, 1857,
Married Jan. 30, 1873, to Joseph Wolfe, of Irwin, Pa. R. F. D.
To them were born six children : (a) Sadie B. M. Wilfe, born
Jan. 19, 1874, married Aug. 18, 1892, to John L. Updegraff by D\
4o The Lauffer History.
S. Ferguson. P. O., Irwin. Pa. R. F. D. Three children,
Mary E. Updegraft horn Mar. i6, [893, I. aura A. Updegraff
\ v. 1' . 1804. Viola A. Updegraff born Sept. 17. [900. (b) An-
na Laura Wolfe horn Nov. 20, 1876, married to William Watson,
of Wilkinsburg, Pa. (c) Joseph Roy Wolfe horn Feb. 1, [886,
died Sept. 22. 1886. (d) Man Mabel Wolfe born May 22,
[889. (e) Ida Irene Wolfe horn Oct. 2.). [892. (f) Rebecca
P. Wolfe horn June 30, 1897. (3) George W. Ashbaugh horn
July }. 1858, married Feb. 27. 1895, to Catherine Hutchinson by
Rev. C. I-. E. Cartwright. To them were horn: Edward T.
Ashbaugh Jan. 13. 1898. Mary P.. Ash'baugh Feb. 2, 1902.
(4) Annie Elizabeth Ashbaugh horn Oct. 30. 1859, Jeannette.
Pa. (5) Sarah Ellen Ashbaugh horn Apr. 3, 1861, Irwin, Pa.,
R. F. D. (6) Barbara Alice Ashbaugh, horn Aug. 3. 1862,
married to George Kunkle, of Delmont, Pa. (7) William
Humes Ashbaugh born Sept. 20. 1803, Irwin, Pa. R. F. D.
(8) Agnes Glunt Ashbaugh born May 5, 1865, married July 4,
1893. to William J. Wilson, of Greensburg, Pa., by Rev. Walter
Witten. (9) Christian James Ashbaugh born Dec. 28, 1806.
Married Dec. 31, 1891, to Maggie L. Painter, by W. A. Keener.
P. ( ).. Irwin, Pa., R. P. D. To them were horn six children:
William G. Ashbaugh born Dee. 8. 1892. (b) Mary Ellen
Ash'baugh born Dec. 2, 1895. (c) Isa. Ashbaugh born Apr.
15. 1897. died Apr. 18, 1898, interred at Union Cemetery. Irwin.
(d) Howard E. Ashbaugh born July 17. [899. (e) James H.
Ashbaugh born Feb. 7. 1902. (f) Albert L. Ashbaugh born
Apr. 9, [904. 1 10) Ida Settiali Ashbaugh born Sept. (>, 1868,
married Sept. 17. 1885, to Elmer E. Hobaugh by Rev. W. F.
Conner. P. O., Irwin, Pa.. R. F. D. To them were born eighi
children: (a) Jennie V. Ilobaugii born June 18, 1887. (b)
Florence M. Hobaugh born Apr. 27, 1889. (c) Charles E.
Hobaugh born July 10, 1890. (d) James W. Hobaugh born
Nov. 8. 1893. (e) Henry E. Hobaugh born June 13, 1896.
(f) John J. Hobaugh born July 31, 1898. (g) Mary Ellen
Hobaugh horn Apr. 24, 1901. (h) Ira I. Hobaugh born July
29, 1903. (11) Lydia Catherine Ashbaugh born July 13,
1870, married Oct. 27, 1892, to George E. Kuhns, of Irwin, Pa.,
R. F. D., by W. A. Keener. To them four children were born:
Henry Ashbaugh.
The Lauffer History. 41
Grace Elizabeth Kuhns born Aug. 3, 1893. Nellie Josephine
Kuhns born June 20, 1896. Sarah Ruth Kuhns born Aug. 25,
1900. Edward David Kuhns born July 17, 1903. (12) Ulysses
Grant Ashbaugh born Nov. 13, 1871, Irwin, Pa. (13) Walter
D. H. Ashbaugh born Feb. 19, 1876. Married Apr. 17, 1900, to
Ida Florence Kunkle, by Rev. J. M. Miles. P. O.. Jeannettc,
Pa., R. F. D. Two children. Edith Irene Ashbaugh Feb. 24,
1901, and James Howard Kunkle Ashbaugh born Sept. 9, 1902.
(14) Clarence Algie Ashbaugh born May 12. 1878, married
Sept. 12, 1904, to Luella B. Cline by Rev. S. P>. Mace. Boquet,
Pa. (15) Calvin Paul Ashbaugh born Dec. 9, 1S79, Jeannette,
Pa.
VIII. Seth Ashbaugh born Apr. 29, 1833. Deceased.
IX. Barbara Ashbaugh born Aug. 25, 1834. Deceased.
X. Paul Ashbaugh, son of Mary Lauffer, daughter of John,
Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born May 9, 1837. Re-
sides at County Line, Iowa. Married Nov. II, 1858, to Julia
Ann Lauffer by Rev. David Kirkpatrick. To them were born
five children :
(1) Alice D. Ashbaugh born Oct. 6, 1859. Married Dec.
18, 1879, to John K. Clark by Rev. G. M. Spargrove. To them
were born six children: (a) Lola Rebecca Clark born Nov. 3,
1880, died Nov. 22, 1881. Interred at Winsel Cemetery, near
Liberty ville, Iowa, (b) James Russell Clark born Aug. 28,
1882, of Cantril. Iowa, (c) Ida Ruth Clark born Feb. 15,
1885, married Feb. 18, 1903, to Ralph Linn by Rev. G. L. Min-
cas. One child : Paul Raymond Linn born Jan. 27, 1904. P.
()., Cantril, Van Buren Co., Iowa, (d) Agnes May Clark born
April 2, 1887. i'e) Homer Dane Clark born Oct. 4, 1889. (f)
Grover Cleveland Clark born Mar. 25, 1892.
(2) Elmer D. Ashbaugh born Feb. 17, 1862. married May
17, 1899, to Ada Blanchard byy Rev. Jackson Harman. One
child : Fern H. Ashbaugh born Apr. 23, 1900.
(3) Mary M. Ashbaugh born May 4, 1864. Died Aug.
24, 1890, interred at Denmark Manor Cemetery. Married to
John Lessig (also deceased). One child, Paul J. Lessig born
Aug. 4, 1884.
42 The Lauffkr History.
(4) Ida V. Ashbaugh born Mar. 2, 1866, married Aug. 4,
1887. to Oliver Portzer by Rev. S. S. Holloway. Two children:
Charles II. Portzer born Sept. 2, 1888, died Aug. 4, 1890. interred
at Denmark Manor Cemetery, and Alice 1\ Portzer born Sept. 8,
1S90. P. ()., Harrison City, Pa.
(5) Calvin P. Ashbaugh born Mar. iS, 1868. married Sept.
29, 1892, to Anna M. Lauffer. P. O., Irwin, Pa., R. F. D.
XI. Mary Ashbaugh born Jan. 12, 1839. Single. Of the
date of death and place of interment we are not informed.
IV. Christian Lauffer son of John. Sr., son of Christian,
the Pioneer, died Aug. 10, 1886, aged 86 years, 10 months and
23 days. His wife, Elizabeth, also buried at Denmark Manor,
died Jan 24, 1883. aged 82 years. 4 months and 10 days. To
them were born six children: Mary, Margaret, Susan, Simon,
Elizabeth, John ; of these six all except John left families. Chris-
tian Lauffer, like his brother. John, the centenarian, did some
traveling in his younger days. On one of these trips he visited
his Uncle Peter, in Moore Tp.. Northampton Co., Pa., as we
are informed by Mr\ Catharine Waugaman. his living sister.
(l) Mary Lauffer, his eldest child, was born June 3, 1824,
married June 16. 1844, to John Wigle by Rev. Nicholas P. Hacke.
Died recently. To them were born ten children: (a) Simon
L. Wigle born June II, 1846, died May 5, 1864. (b) Susan
Wigle born Jan. 11, 1848, married Aug. 29, 1895, to Zeph Glunt,
of Turtle Creek, Pa., by Rev. J. J. Wagoner, (c) L. Eliza-
beth Wigle born Nov. 13, 1850, married Oct. 23, 1882, to John
I. Broun by P. McKenna. P. O., Paden, Ind. Ter. Three chil-
dren: Ellen F. Brown born Apr. 11, 1884. Minnie A. Brown
born Jan. 2S, 1886. John E. Brown born Aug. 9, 1890. (d)
H. J. Wigle born Feb. 8, 1852, married Mar. 22, 1877, to Martha
J. Baer, by Rev. B. B. Christy. Their family consists of seven :
Melissa J. Wigle born Feb. 5, 1878. (To her we are indebted
for Wigie data). Logan K. Wigle born Jan. 30, 1880, married
Sept. 3, 1903. to Mary B. Kidinger, by Rev. S. B. Mase. (One
child, Robert Ridinger Wigle born July 17, 1904.) C. Lauffer
Wigle born Nov. 17, 1882. J. Chalmer Wigle born Feb. 18,
1884. Lydia E. Wigle born Sept. 18, 1886, died Nov. 9, 1893,
Christian Lauffek, son of John Sr.
The Lauffer History. 4.3
interred at Irwin, Pa.. Charles M. Wigle born Aug. 9, 1889.
Hettie M. E. Wigle born Sept. 1, 1892. (e) Frances M. Wigle,
the fifth child of Mary LaufFer, was born Mar. 7, 1853, married
Jan. 9, 1873, to Israel E. Good, of Export, Pa., by Rev. N. P.
J lacke. To them were born eight children. Oscar M. Good
born Oct. 25, 1873, married Aug. 11, 1896, to C. Kepple, by Rev.
Geo. J. Itiener. P. O., Export, Pa. (Three children. Israel
E. Good born Jure 14, 1898. Herbert K. Good born Sept. 11,
1899. Marion O. Good born June 12, 1902). Anna May Good
born Feb. 25. 1875, married Jan. 24, 1894, to J. N. Wilson, by
Rev. J. X. Evans, (hive children: Walter Wilson born Nov.
15, 1895, died Feb. 8, 1896, interred at Murraysville. Florence
Margaret Wilson born Feb. 15, 1897. Israel Arthur Wilson born
June 25, 1902. Isabella Wilson born May 1, 1905). Maud A.
Good born Dec. 26, 1S77, married Apr. 18, 1902, to E. C. Watt,
of Export, Pa. William H. Good born June 17, 1880, married
Sept. 9, 1902. to L. E. McConnell, of Export, Pa. Frank W.
Good born May (>, 1883, died Feb. 1, 1884, interred at Emanuel
Cemetery. Bell C. Good, the sixth of the family of Francis M.
Wigle, was born Aug. 24, 18,84, married Dec. 24, 1902, to H.
C. McWilliams. of Murraysville, by Rev. A. F. Bender. (One
child. Loretta M. McWilliams born Feb. 3, 1904). Ray I.
Good born June 15, 1886. Edna M. Good, May 6. 1888. (f)
Wilson S. Wigle born Jan. 2, 1858, married Mar. 6, 1881, to
Elizabeth F. Donaldson (born Mar. 21. 1861. died June 6, 1882)
by Rev. A. E. Truxal. (One child by this marriage, Albert T.
Wigle, born Mar. 2T, 1882, died May 5, 1882). Married again
Inly 3, 1883, to Maggie Watson (born Jan. 15, 1862) by Rev.
l ieorge Orbin. To them were born ten children. P. O., Greens-
1 urg, Pa., R. F. D. 4. George W. Wigle born May 13, 1884.
William L. Wigle born Jan. 24, 1886. James H. Wigle born
June 18, 1888. died Nov. 8, 1888, interred at Congruity, Pa.
Frank C. Wigle born Feb. 25, 1890. Ralph R. Wigle born Oct.
10, 1891. Norman M. Wigle born Jan 8, 1894. Christina M.
Wigle born May 3, 1895. Allen K. Wigle born July 19, 1897.
Olive S. Wrigle born Mar. 31, 1899. Wrilson S. Wigle born May
15, 1902. (g) C. L. Wigle born Mar. 7, 1859, married in 1885
44 Tin-: Laiti-hr History.
to Mary Krop by Rev. Krider. P. O., Export, Pa. Nine chil-
dren : Albeit X. Wigle born June 19, 1886. Minnie Wigle born
Aug. 13, 1888. Herman Wigle born Mar. 8, 1890. Arnoid
Wigle born Feb. 6, 180,2. Harry Wigle born July 4, 1894.
Laura Wigle born May 21, 18^)7. Oscar Wigle born Aug. 10.
1899. Noema Wigle born (Jet. 4, 1902. Christopher Wigle
born May 21. 1897. died May 2J, 1897, interred at Turtle Creek,
Pa. (1) Annie Z. Wigle born Jan. 2$, 1864, died Jan. 24,
1886. Interred Irwin, Pa. (j) Jennie Wigle born Sept 10,
1867, irarried to I. K. Glunt, Irwin, Pa.
(2) Margaret I.aufTer, daughter of Christian Lautler, son
of John. Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Aug. 1,
1827. married June 20. 1844, to David Keister by Rev. N. P.
Hacke. To them weer born eleven children. (Data of grand-
children as yet not received.) (a) John L. Keister born Feb.
19, 1845. Killed in Civil War, near Richmond, \ a.. May 30,
1864. (b) James D. Keister born July 9. 1846, died Apr. 2,
1875, interred Ottumwa, Iowa, (c) Henry C. Keister born
Oct. 5, 1848, married Dec. 2, 1868, to Jennie Hoey, Address St.
Edwards, Neb. (d) Simon D. Keister born Dec. 25, 1852, mar-
ried Feb. 19, 1S80, to Eva E. Humes, Export, Pa. (e) Anna
M. Kiester born Nov. 14, 1854, married Jan. 2, 1873, to S. K.
Hoey, Swissvale, Fa. (f) William E. Keister born Apr. 2, 1856,
married July 14, 1880, to Ida Baird, Essex, Iowa, (g) Eber
B. Keister born Nov. 10, 1858, married Dec. 25, 1869, to Alice
Good, Carnegie. Pa. (h) Calvin F. Keister born Oct. 21, i860,
married Sept. 23, 1886, to Lizzie Cline, of Turtle Creek, Pa.
(i) Elizabeth J. Keister born Oct. 2^: 1862, married Aug. 20,
1885. to J. F. Mull, Jcannette. Pa. (j) Grant N. Keister born
July 14, 1865, married Mar. 1 1, 1885. to Lydia Naley. Died
Aug. 24, 1809; interred at Denmark Manor Cemetery. (k)
Charles I. Keister born Jan. S, 1868, married Sept. 17. 1891, to
Emma Mull. Larimer, Pa.
(3) Susan Lauffer, third in the family of Christian, son
of John, Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Dec. 10,
1831, married Dec, 25, 1851. to Samuel Earhart by Rev. Eyster.
Susannah Earhart died May 16, 1861. Five children: (a)
The Lauffer History. 45
Alpheus Virgil Earhart born Jan. 31, 1853, married June 9, 1897,
to Anna Gertrude Kepler, by George W. Kepler. Address 13 19
Esplanade St., Allegheny, Pa. (b) Albacetta Virginia Earhart
born Aug. 20, 1854, married Feb. 6, 1871, to John I. Errett, of
McKeesport, Pa., by Rev. N. P. Hacke. He was born Nov. iS,
1850, died Oct. 16, 1889. To them were born five children.
Bertha Idella Errett born Jan. 17, 1872, married June 27, 1889,
to Thomas Carroll ; she died Sept. 19, 1899, interred in McKees-
port, Pa. Elijah L. Errett born June 12, 1875, married Dec. 29,
1898, to Bertha Fry, Claridge, Pa. Alice E. Errett born July
20, 1882. Maneva J. Errett born May 6, 1886, died Sept. 14,
1887. Pearl V. Errett born Oct. 16, 1888. (c) Alice Cather-
ine Earhart born Nov. 18, 1855, married Mar. 15, 1883, to Francis
Waugaman, of Harrison City, Pa., by Rev. D. B. Lady. Two
children. Frank Lanffer Waugaman born July 29, 1884, and
Garnet Waugaman born Apr. 1, 1886. (d) Albert Elijah Ear-
hart born Feb. 18, 1857, married Dec. 18, 1879, to Eliza Reiff by
Rev. Ogle. Address Echo, Wells Co., End. Two children, Al-
phus H. Earhart born Oct. 5, 1880, and Charles Earhart born
Nov. 21, 1882, married Aug. 30, 1903. to Mattie Eva Prough by
H. C. Smith. Address, Bluffton, Ind. (e) Anna Elizabeth
Earhart born June 8, 1859, married Sept. 29, 1880, to Frank John-
son, St. Joseph, Mo., (born June 2"j, i860) by Rev. William
Friend. Three children. Aaron O. Johnson born June 19, 1881,
P. O., Hiawatha, Brom Co., Kan. Hattie A. Johnson, born Nov.
25, 1882. Nellie M. Johnson bom Sept. 3, 1888. P. O., Horton,
Brom Co.. Kan.
(4) Simon D. Lauffer, son of Christian, son of John, Sr^
son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Mar. 31, 1834,; married
Dec. 24, 1863, to Kate Painter by Rev. Eaton. To them were
born four children. Minnie E. Lauffer, born Oct. 2, 1865. died
Jan. 4, 1871. Lizzie M. Lauffer, born Feb. 2, 1867, died Mar.
6, 1873. liertha B. Lauffer, born Feb. 2, 1870. Frank P. Lauf-
fer. born Nov. 8, 1880, Irwin, Pa.
(5) Elizabeth Lauffer, born Sept. 19, 1841, married May
22, 1854, to Joseph B. Martin, (born Mar. 22, 183 1) by Rev.
N. P. Hacke. Fight children, (a) Mary Martin, born Oct. 3,
46 Thk L-aufper History.
1863, died in infancy, (b) Frank E. Martin, horn Aug. 3, 1856,
married in 1895 to Ada Frankenberg, Latrobe, Pa. One child,
Martha Martin, horn Aug. 1900. (c) William L. Martin born
Aug. _,:;. 1858, married May 9, I - -.-9, to Nan J.
Blair. Three children. John P>. Martin. born June
1, 1800. James C. Martin, horn November 3,
1892. Elizabeth M. Martin, born Oct. 27, 1894. P. O. Irwin,
Pa. (d) James O. Martin, born Nov. 3, i860, married July 4,
1883. to Catherine Bowman. Three children. Mary E. Martin,
born May 23, 1884. Jean O. Martin, born July 14, 1886. Frank
L. Martin, born Oct. 3, 1890. (e) Katharine M. Martin, born
May 2). 1866, married Feb. 21, 1889 to John C. Loughcad,
Braddock, Pa. (f) Belle Martin, horn Mar. 3, 1869. married
Sept. 1. 1891, to S. S. Shaw, 736 North Ave., Wilmerding, Pa.
(g) Lillian Af. Martin, born Feb. 2J, 1874. married Aug 23,
1894, to W. E. Shaw, Jeannette, Pa. (h) Margaret Martin, born
Feb. 17, 1870. married Oct. 18, 1899, to W. F. Hayden, Greens-
burg. Pa. One child, Elizabeth J. Hayden, born Oct. 21, 1900.
(6) John Lauffer, one of the elder children in the family of
Christian Lauffer, son of John, Sr., died of a fever when a young
man. No data received.
V. Daniel Lauffer, son of John, Sr., son of Christian, the
Pioneer, was born Mar. 18, 1801, died May 13, 1887, interred
at Pine Run cemetery. Married to Margaret Dible, who was
born Sept. 8, 1808, died Nov. f>, 1846, also interred at Pine Run.
He was the father of seven children.
( i ) Jacob D. Lauffer, son of Daniel, was born May 5,
1828, married June, 1853, to Mary X. Yockey. Married again
in April. [S71, to Lizzie C. Amant by Rev. Stauffer. Five chil-
dren, (a) Elizabeth L. LaufYer, born Sept. 1854, married about
1870, to John Amant, of Apollo, Pa. To them were born George
Amant, married and living in Saltsburg and Clyde Amant, mar-
ried and living in Apollo, (b) John Y. Lauffer, born in May,
1856, married in the spring of 1879 to Martha Weaver, Apollo,
Pa. Two children, Laura and Harry, (c) Leanna Dorcas Lauf-
fer, born in May, 1863, married Christmas, 1881, to Jacob
Forbes of Apoho. Six children. Ethel, Earl, Edna, Frank, Lc-
Dam ei. Lauffer.
Thf Lauffer History. 47
anna, Margaret (d) Rev. George N. Lauffer, born Nov. 24
1879, married Oct. 8, 1902, to Naomi Myers. Pastor of Lutheran
church, New Oxford, Pa. (e) Hannah Mabel Lauffer, born
Jan. 3, 1882, Apollo, Pa.
(2) Lusetta Lauffer, born Dec. 7, 1832.
(3) Neriah L. Lauffer, born May 20, 1835.
(4) Julianna Lauffer, born Oct. 25, 1837. For these three
we have received no data.
(5) Daniel M. Lauffer, born May II, 1840, married March
26, 1868, to Angelina Muffley. The old family Bible is in the
hands of Daniel, Jr., and to him we are indebted for much oi
the material in the Daniel Lauffer section. Address, Apollo, Fa.
Nine children, (a) Sharlett L. Lauffer, born Mar. 20, 1869,
Salina, Pa. (b) L. V. Lauffer, born Jan. 27, 1871, died Nov.
10, 1878. (c) J. C. Lauffer, born Dec. 1, 1872, Salina, Pa. (d)
J. M. Lauffer, born Mar. 12, 1874, Salina, Pa. (e) J. F. Lauffer,
born Mar. 10, 1876, married Sept. 30, 1896, to M. J. Caldwell,
Salina, Pa. (£) M. A. Lauffer, born Nov. 12, 1877, married Nov.
7, 1900, to E. M. Williard, 85 Hamilton St., Allegheny, Pa. (g)
J. R. Lauffer, born May 28, 1880, married May I, 1902, to Annie
Lucas, Salina. Pa. (Ji) \Y. W. Lauffer, born Oct. 20, 1882. (i)
H. Z. Lauffer, born Sept. 1, 1S85.
(6) Margaret J. C. Lauffer, born June 4, 1842, married
Nov. 15, i860, to Joseph Hill by Rev. McMillen. To them were
born thirtetn children, (a) Mary M. Hill, born Aug. 10, 186T,
married Dec. 21, 1881, to J. B. George (born Apr. 18, 1857, died
May 6, 1898) by Rev. J. Dottes. P. O. Apollo, Pa. Two chil-
dren. Margaret E. George, born June 9, 1882, married May
12, 1904, to A. L. Whitacre, of Vandergriftt Heights, Pa. Rol-
land E. George, born Sept. 7, 1884. (b) Daniel M. Hill, born
Sept. 27, 1862, married Dec. 1891, to Elsie Hill, died Sept. II,
i8c>S, interred at Pine Run. (c) John M. Hill, of Paulton, Pa.,
born July 30, 1S64. (d) Herman G. Hill, born Oct. 3, 1866, died
Jan. 31, 1899, interred at Pine Run. (e) Bellle H. Hill, born
Jan. 26, i860, married Oct. 23, 1891, to L. W. Taylor, of Apollo,
(born Sept. 7, 18-64) by Rev. F. W. Brown. Two children,
4S The Lauffer History.
Cora Muriel T l.orn Dec. n, I ■'■•-. and Boyd Wilson
Taylor, b rn Feb. 3, 1896. (f) Dale \. Kill, born Sept. 17,
1S70. man Jul) 23, [896, to Mollie Duncan by Rev. Culler
Vandergr I ts. Pa. One child. Teresa U. Hill, born Aug.
19, 1S97. (gj Russell I. Hill, born Doc. 27, [872, died Aug.
. LS73, int< rred at Pine Run. (h) Artie A. I 'ill. born July 13,
1874, marrk 1 < , 1809, to Cora . by Rev. C. M.
Summey. P. O. Paul ton, Pa. Three children. Marie M. Hill,
rn June 6, 19 . Earnest L. Kill, born fane 2, [901. John L.
Hill, born Feb. 8, [903. (i) Orpha E. Hill, Lorn Feb. 19, 1877,
married April [895, to W. R. McOuilkin. Vandergrift Heights,
Pa. (j) Lloyd E. Kill, born Feb. 8, [879, married Dec.6, [897,
to P.. E. Vandergrift Heights, Pa. (k) Cecil E. Hill,
born Jan. 17. [882. Paulton, Pa. (1) ( laude E. Hill, born May
21, 1884. D ; 1 '" L. Hill, born, Apr. 9, [887.
Lauder, son of Dan:,:, was born Apr. 2j. 184 .
married Nov. 20, [866, to Mary Agnes Rumbaugh (born Feb.
22. 1848) by Rev. j. Welfley. He was enlisted in Co. F. nth
Regiment, Penna. Volunteers, under Gen. Richard Coulter. He
was a pris tner of war in Libby prison. Bell Island and Sals-
bury, and lectures on incidents of the Civil War. Address, Apol-
lo. Pa. Fievcn children, (a) James R. Lauffer, born Oct. 5.
[867. (b) Daniel M. Lauffer. of Irwin. Pa., born Jan. 22,
i860, (c • Joseph S. Lauffer, born Dec. 8, 1870, married Sept. 10.
[902, to Lizzie Dekraker. Prosper, Mich, (d) Elizabeth L.
Lauffer, born July T2, 1872. married 1 v. [6, 1890, to David
Bieghley, ille, Pa. (e) Man M. Lauffer. born Apr.
- [876, - rirried Sept. 2;. [895, to Fred Sporck, of Larimer,
Pa. (f) Samuel N. Lauffer. born Aug. 31, [878, married May 28,
[903.. to Kate Holtzer, by Rev. G. J. Deiner, Harrison City, Pa.
(g) Sarah C. Lauffer, born Dec. 20. 1880, married Nov. 10. 1902,
to Walter Morrison, Apollo. Pa, (h) Zula A. Lauffer. born Aug.
6, 1883. (i) John C. W. Lauffer, born Aug. 23, 1886. (j) Min-
nie P». Lauffer, born June 1, 1890. (k) George W. Lauffer, born
Aug. 25. 1894.
VI. John Lauffer. Jr., son of John, Sr., son of Christian,
John Lai pfer, the Centenarian.
The Lauffer History. 49
the Pioneer, was born Jan. 26, 1803. He is the sixth in a family
of fourteen and for equipoise and longevity has surpassed all
die ether Lauficrs. He was a man of geniality and of a cheer-
ful, amiable disposition. He was a patriarch in our family, and
being: a grand-son of our common ancestor, Christian Lauffer,
and having ai1 his life taken a lively interest in the affairs of
all branches of the Lauder family, he held a position of un-
disputed primacy.
The travels of his earlier years are related el re in this
history. He drove a team to Philadelphia several times before he
was twenty-one, and could relate interesting stories of the stage
coach days. In these trips East lis crossed the mountains at three
different places, namely, via Greensburg and Harrisburg, via
Bedford and via Blairsville. In his own words: "] had been
with a drover. He sold out at Morristown, then 1 went on to
Philadelphia, to see the ships with sails. That is how I got
down there. I had seen the steam boats at Pittsburg, but I
wanted to see the sail ships that go on the ocean. I iva? twenty-
two years old at that time."
In describing this journey he said: "We took the Greensburg
Pike through Bedford. Another time we took the Northern Pike.
We always walked home again. People are not so foolish nowa-
days, they do not walk so much. You get used to it. It is not
harder than if you worked. It too'; a good bit of tirm ing.
Coming back we were allowed three days for one hundred miles.
We got doe a day for expenses and 30c a day from the drover as
wages, besides having expenses paid. Going down we went about
fifteen miles a day, just as it would suit to stop."
When asked how much money he made on such a trip, re-
quiring six weeks, he said: "I was a pretty good walker and
could cover more than 100 miles in three days. So I got some
of the money allowed me for expenses. I cleared $9 or $10 on
a trip." Quite a modest wage, according to our present stand-
ards of value !
On the Christmas before his death, when asked to agaui
tell something of this trip into Ohio, he said : "Col. Paul Brink-
5o The Lauffer History.
er and J took a notion to see Ohio. We had friends scattered ail
over the state. In the foil of the year when the buckwheat was
thrashed and the corn in. we took a notion to see the country
visit our friends. We took the boat at Pittsburg for Cincin-
nati. We walked 400 miles or more. At Columbus we visited
the ChrPt Lauffer people and the Teegardens who owned this
land here, and had moved out from Greensburg. We were gone
about six weeks. We went in October and got back in Decem-
ber before the snow came. We thought we had seen a good deal."
When asked again of the Peter Lauffer people, he said:
"My Uncle Peter was about 15 years older than my father. He
was a farmer by occupation, and a shoemaker by trade. Me
made shoes for Washington's army. He lived twelve miles from
East Town (Easton) and five miles from the Blue Ridge. There
is better land between East Town and Philadelphia than my
Uncle Peter owried. He attended church at Stone Church, three
miles from his home. I was there. John Xaleigh, a brother of
the Naleighs here in the Manor Valley that I knew, owned land
that joined Uncle Peter's farm. I visited him and he was glad
to see me. A line fence separated John Xaleigh's farm from
Uncle Peter's farm."'
When asked how he felt that Christinas day he said: "I
don't feel as good in my legs as I used to. My legs are so weak.
M\ mind is good enough if I was only other ways as good." lie
died of senile gangrene of both extremities, and the arterial
changes that were bringing it on, were evidently at work then al-
ready.
When asked about the role his father played in the Indian
wars he said: "Several families were murdered by the Indians
on Paver Run. Captain Bonner lived near Mt. Pleasant. He
gathered up twenty or forty militia men and went in pursuit.
The Indians escaped. The British hired the Indians. My father
was drafted in the War of '12. He did not go. He sent a sub-
< : I .-.te. That was the summer mother was sick, and died of
cancer, and it did not suit him to go. I was nine years old then.
I can remember it well."
The Lauffer History. 51
Of business enterprises, apart from farming, he conducted
many in the years of his physical vigor. In 1834 he built a saw
mill which was rebuilt in 1851. The log yard was located where
the public school building at Harrison City now stands. In i940
he and his brother Seth built a steam grist mill about one-half
mile northeast of Harrison City. A race was constructed too
and part of the time this mill was operated by water power.
The saw mill was run by water power. The log yard was where
the Harrison City school house now stands. Both mills are
now torn down.
In his youth the site of Harrison City was a dense thicket.
He and John C. Rankin named and laid out that town. It was
named in honor of William Henry Harrison, "Old Tippecanoe."
and the plan of the town bears date of Nov. 3. 1840. The land
south of Main street belonged to John C. Rankin, at an earlier
date to Jacob Walthour, and north of Main street to John Lauf-
fer.
John Lauffer, Jr., enjoys the distinction of haviing voted in
twcntv presidential elections. In the recent presidential election,
he walked to the polls unaided, and even without a cane. He
entered the booth alone, and marked his own ballott without
the aid of glasses, owing to the excellence of his second sight.
He voted for all the presidents from John Quincy Adams up to
McKinley. Harrison, Jackson and Lincoln writ- his favorites,
he helped elect all three. In the recent election (1903) he voted
the Prohibition ticket. He resented the administration's Philip-
pine policy. In the Prohibitiion propaganda of 1857 he became
a total abstainer himself, and ceased using whiskey in the har-
vest field, as was customary in those days. He was five feet,
six inches in height and weighed 145 pounds. In the vigor of
his early manhood he weighed considerably more. He had dark
hair and bine eyes.
His rn^nta.l vieror was retained to an unusual degree, and
the tenacity Z\" . memory was remarkable. He seemed to have
forgotten nothing. And even at Christmas, 1903, was much in-
terested in contemporary events. He attributed the fullness of
52 The Lauffer History.
his years and his continued good health to his temperate habits.
For more than thirty years, he followed no active pursuit in life,
and chose a golden medium in his living. He was a venerable
man and many traveled far to converse with him. He reached
the century milestone with his mind clear and faculties unim-
paired. It was agreeable to talk to so cheerful an old man, who
could recall the War of 1812 and talked of Jackson and his vic-
tories, as events occurring when he was a boy. The Indian
raids upon the early settlers were fresh in his mind, he could
remember the Wilderness north of Pittsburg (Armstrong Co.)
where deer abounded in his youth, and be could relate the events
of the Mexican and Civil wars with great exactness. Until shortly
before his death he devoted several hours each day to readme
ers, books and the Bible.
lie was a devout man, and was a life-long member of the
Reformed church which he attended regularly and in which he
took great interest. Profanity, liquor, and other vices of the
vulgar, he was free from. He ate heartily, slept well, and even
when quite old and feeble was not burdensome to himself 01
others. In his later years lie made his home with his daughter
Lucy. Alis. Klingensmith, who is an excellent housekeeper, and
fondly cared for him in sickness and in health.
ii> first marriage was to Esther Brinker May 3, 1S27. She
was a daughter of Jacob Drinker and was born Nov. 24, iSoS,
and died fitly 21, iR.-jQ. She was the mother of twelve children,
n Lauffer, Jr., was married a second time to Mrs. Mary
1 e< Buchman, Feb. 12. 1853. It was since the death of
th< latter that he made his home with his daughter Lucy.
in L; ufler, Jr., died Jan. 14, 1904, aged 100 years, 11 months
and [9 days. Interred at Denmark Manor Cemetery. The fu-
: ral sermon was preached by Rev. J. F. Snyder, of Salina, in
tl e Reformed Church at Harrison City. His theme was the
Heavenly Home and his text from John's Gospel 14:2-3. It was
the largest funeral ever seen in that part of the country, and one
of the most able sermons ever listened to by th< reople of Har-
rison City: "In the Heavenly Home there is room enough for all
who will come. I ike in the parable of the Great Supper, after
The Lauffer History. 53
the servants gather in all they could find, it was reported there
still is room. There are many mansions. It is an assured Home.
No child of God will ever be disappointed. Tf it were not so I
would have told you.' St. Paul declares, 'For we know if the
earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building
of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the Heavens.' '
Rev. Snyder was assisted by Rev. Deiner and Rev. Noss. Tin?
church was so packed that many were unable to gain admission.
The children of John Jr., son of John Sr., the son of Chris-
tian, the pioneer, are: (1) Henry Paul Lauffer, born Feb. II,
1828, married July 4, 1849, to Susanna Fink ; of this union there
sprang Rev. Michael Fink Lauffer, born Apr. 21, 1850. He
was married May 6, 1875, to Margaret Pricilla Baughman. One
son by this marriage. Coil Franklin Lauffer, born Feb. 28, 1876.
Rev. Michael Fink LaufTcr was again married to Anna Melissa
Meyer Nov. 27, 1884. One son, Walter Meyer Lauffer, born
Sept. 7, 1886. Address 115 East Washington St., Huntington,
Ind. While pastor of a Lutheran church near Columbus, ()., lie
became acquainted with western Lauffers and rendered very cor-
dial assistance in this history.
Henry Paid Lauffer was again married Tan 12, 1853, to
Mary Holtzer. P. (). Harrison City, Pa. To them were born:
(a) Louise Lauffer, born Oct. 28, 1854, died Nov. 15, 1854. (b)
John Holtzer Lauffer, born Jan. 29, 1856, died Nov. 12, 1863. (c)
Henry Albert Lauffer, born June 29, 1858, married to Clara Alice
Bair. Two daughters. Verna Frances Lauffer, born June 22,
188S, and Caroline Lauffer, born May 8, 1891. (d) Ella Melissa
Lauffer, born Dec. 1, i860, married to Paul Finley McGrew, 124
Penna. Ave., McKeesport, Pa. No reply, (e) Harry Lauffer,
born July 10, 1863. (f) William Tecumseh Sherman Lauffer,
born June 15, 1865. (g) Edward Marion Lauffer, born Sept. 13,
1867. Married Dec. 22, 1892, to Maud E. Lang. To them were
born : Mary Lang Lauffer, born Nov. 18, 1893. Henry Paul
Lauffer. born Aug. 4, 1895. Florence Ruth Lauffer, born May 6,
1897. Verna Catharine Lauffer, born Dec. 5, 1901.
(2) Jacob B. Lauffer, born May 14, 1829. Married Ndv.
54 The Lauffer History.
II, 1852, to Susanna Berlin. Harrison City, Pa. To them were
born: (a) Martha Jane Lauffer. born Jan. 31, 1853, died June
22, i8f< j. (b) Elijah Lauffer, born Sept. 12, 1855. Married
Mar. 28. 1882, to Elizabeth Clark. She died Nov. 3. 1890. To
them were born : Walter Clark Lauffer, born Jan. 29, 1883. Died
in May, 1905. Charlie Park Lauffer, born Apr. 4, 1888. James
Howard Lauffer, born Mar. 3, 1890. Elijah Lauffer was mar-
ried again May 20. 1897, to Emma Gertrude Ferree. Address
Manor, Pa. (c) John Berlin Lauffer. born Sept. 5, 1857. Died
Mar. 24, 1890. Married Apr. 21, 1880, to Matilda S. Loughner.
To them were born Tressie Viola Lauffer. May 19, 1882, Married
Feb. 22, 1901, to Chalmer M. Kistler, and their young daug'htter,
Luella May Kistler, born Apr. 9, 1902. was the great-grcat-
grand-daughter of John Lauffer, Jr., and Oliver William Kist-
ler, born Nov. 28, 1904, named after Oliver Lauffer, brother
of Tressie. (d) Frank Lauffer, son of Jacob B. Lauffer, was born
Oct. 5, 1859. (e) William Lauffer, M. D., Larimer, Pa., born
1861. No reply, (f) Anna Lauffer, born May 14, 1863, mar-
ried June 10, 1883, to Lester Newcomer. Three children: Sadie
B. Newcomer, born Aug. 5, 1885, Harry Elmer Newcomer,
born Feb. 1, 1887. Charles L. Newcomer, born July 26, 1892.
Married again Oct. 17, 1895, to Alfred M. Eckenrod, of Harri-
son City, Pa. Five children: John L. Eckenrod, born July 11,
1896. Clarence A. Eckenrod, born May 16, 1898. Twins born
June 19, 1900, Anna M. and Alfred E. Eckenrod. Francis M.
Eckenrod born Dec. 11, 1902. (g) Laura Belle Lauffer, born
Dec. 11, 1865. Married Sept. it, 1888, to Henry Shearer, Har-
rison City, Pa. One son. Henry Park Shearer, born Nov. 5,
1S94. (h) Jerry Lauffer, born Nov. 11, 1869. Married Aug.
11, 1891, to Anna Ferguson. Two children : Wilbur Hays Lauf-
fer, born Mar. 4, 1895. Clarence Alvin Lauffer, born May 4,
1902-. (i) Emma Lauffer, born July 10, 1870, died Aug 22,
1896. (j) Harry Elmer Lauffer born Apr. 15, 1873. (k) Ur-
bana Lauffer, born May 22. 1875. Address of latter three is Har-
rison City, Pa.
(3) William Urias Lauffer, born Sept. 17, 1831, died Aug.
28, 1833.
The Lauffer History. 55
(4) Lucy Anna Lauffer, born May 19, 1833, married Jan.
26, 1854, to Jackson Klingensmith, now deceased. Two children.
William A. Klingensmith, born Sept. 6, 1855. John Calvin
Klingensmith, born Feb. 24, 1867, died July 20, 1868.
(5) Catherine Maria Lauffer, born Mar. 8, 1835. married
Dec. 22, 1853, to Stephen Ridinger, of Irwin. Pa., by Rev. Nich-
olas P. Hacke. Stephen Ridinger died June 5, 1903. To them
were born seven children, (a) John Lauffer Ridinger, born Mar.
11, 1855, married Sept. 4, 1888, to Sarah B. Brown, by Rev.
Chas. P. Cheesman. Their son, Paul Brown Ridinger was born
June 8, 1889, died , 1904. (b) Arabella Ridinger, born
Aug. 31, 1857, married Nov. 28, 1877, to Joseph M. Kiester, by
Rev. Noble G. Miller. Four children. Mary Ridinger Kiester,
born Aug. 25, 1885, died May 20, 1886, interred Irwin, Pa.
John Ridinger Kiester, born June 5, 1887. Stephen James Kies-
ter, born Sept. 17, 1891. Charles Roscoe Kiester, born Feb. 7,
1897. (c) Emma Elizabeth Ridinger, born Apr. 7. i860, died
Nov. 17, 1863. (d) Mary Fast Ridinger, born June II, 1862,
died Dec. 12, 1886. (e) Carrie Melissa Ridinger, born June 2,
1866, died Nov. 16, 1870. All three are interred at Union Cem-
etery, Irwin, Pa. (f) Anna May Ridinger. born May 14, 1869,
married Oct. 28, 1890 to Roscoe T. McCormick (born Jan. 10,
1867, at Irwin, Pa.) by Rev. J. F. Murray. Address 310 Hay
St., Wilkinsburg, Pa. (g) Charles Wesley Ridinger, born Mar.
10, 1872, married No*. *r>, 1897, to EttM M. Weihl, by Rev.
Henry D. Lindsay. To them were born Charles Wesley Ridin-
ger, Jr., born Feb. *.Ty 1900. John Stephen Ridinger, born Sept.
20, 1901. Address 3204 Perrysville Ave., Allegheny, Pa.
(6) Josiah Benjamin Lauffer, son of John, Jr., son of John,
Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, born Jan. 2y, 1837. Address
868 Chester St., Oakland, Cal. His has been a very interesting
career. At twenty years of age he commenced making trips
on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. He made ten or eleven trips
to Vickksburg and New Orleans between 1858 and i860. It
was then his purpose to learn the river in order to be a pilot.
He tells us : "In 1861 the war broke out and the Rebels block-
56 The Lauffer History,
ed the lower Mississippi, and that stopped my boating scheme.
In 186] 1 enlisted for the War as a private soldier. 1 served
rly through the war. Was promoted and was discharged in
July, [£ \ as Captain of Company K, nth regiment, Pa. Volun-
teers. During my service I took part in many of the principal
battl s i i the war, was twice slightly and once severely wound-
"I will here mention my brother Israel, who also was a - '-
dier. He belonged to the ioist Regiment, lie was wounded and
taken prisoner and died a prisoner of war. One thing more <^r
importance I wish to call to your attention. 1 never saw it men-
tioned anywhere that my grandfather, John Lai'ficf*, served in
die Revolutionary War, but it is a fact that two of his brothers
>.:; 1 himself served during that period. My grandfather being
ry young at the time served as a scout. This I heard from
his own lips. In those tim.es records may have been kept very
imperfectly. There may be no record to show that he served
undr Captain Bonnet, and in the War of 1812, he furnished a sol-
dier, that is he hired and paid a man out of his ownpocket to
serve in the war. he at the time being unable to serve himself.
"After the War I engaged in store business in Penn Station
for about tour years, during which time 1 was postmaster. From
here I moved on a farm in Penn Township, lived there four
years and from there to Harrison Citv. I aerain eneaeed in the
• - rcantile business and was postmaster for six years. In 1886
I moved, to Humboldt County, Cab, lived there for four years,
tl en moved to San Francisco. I have been employed at the U.
S. mint for nearly nine years. 1 was also employed at the Navy
Yard at Vallgio nearly two years.*'
Josiah B. Lauffer was. married Nov. 26. i860, to Anna J.
Sowash, by Rev. James Kelso. To them were born nine children :
(a) James Otis Lauffer, lx)rn Sept. 23. 1871. married to Margan t
Xewhart, San Francisco, Cal. (b) Charles Lynns Lauffer. born
Feb. 21, 1874, married to Charlotte Pierce. Two sons. Howard
Clayton Lauffer and Raymond Bartle Lauffer. Oakland, Cab
(c) Joseph Garnet Lauffer, Oakland, Cab, born Aug. 30, 1878.
The Lauffer History. 57
(d) Grace Esther Lauffer, born Feb. 4, 1868, Oakland, Cal. (e)
Catherine Patterson Lauffer, born Nov. 26. 1869, married to Ber-
nard Aner, of Golden Gate, Cal. Two children, Helen Cath-
erine Aner and Dorotha Clare Aner. (f) Anna Jessie Lauffer,
born May 24, 187^, married to George McGraw, of Oakland, Cal.
To them was born Ruby Loas McGraw. (g) Mary Elizabeth
Lauffer, born Mar. 29, 1881, married to Chester Ames, of Oak-
land, Cal. (h) Elsie Gill Lauffer, born July 15, 1884, died
June 8, 1885, interred at Harrison City, Pa. (i) Ida Estella
Lauffer, born Dec. 31, 18S7, Oakland, Cal.
Josiah B. Lauffer adds, in a note to his letter, that the B.
in his name stands for Bartel. "I was named after an uncle
of my father, Bartel Lauffer."
(7) John Kistler Lauffer, born Feb. 13, 1839, died Aug.
27, 1839.
(8) Israel Lauffer, born Feb. 19, 1843, died Oct. 7, 1864, at
Charleston, S. C. He was a private in Company I, 101st Reg't,
Pa. Vol.
((») Benjamin Franklin Lauffer, born Oct. 11, 1846. No re-
ply. One daughter resides at Harrison City, Pa., married to
! tarry Mull.
(10) Aaron Lauffer, born May 8, 1849. Died July 12, 1849.
John Lauffer, Jr., had one child by his second marriage.
Margaret Ann Lauffer, born Feb. 8, 1854, died 1861.
VII. Simon Lauffer, son of John Sr., the son of Christian,
the Pioneer. Simon Lauffer was born Jan. 3. 1805, and died Oct.
18, 1875. He is buried at Brush Creek. He was married Aug.
14, 182S, to Anna Xelig (died Apr. 13, 1895) by Rev. N. P.
Hacke. Five children: (1) Kate Ann Lauffer, born Feb. 12,
1832, and died at Shafton, Pa., Mar. 29, 1903. Married to
Lewis Kelly. Their children are : (a) John F. Kelly, born
Oct. 19, 1855, married Sept. I, 1887, to Elizabeth Parbitt by
Rev. Thomas Sharp. Resides at Perm Sta., Pa. Eight children.
John Lewis Kelly, born May 30, 1888. George Walter Kelly,
born July 17, 1 890. Edward Howard Kelly, born June 13, 1892.
Mary May Kelly, born July 1, 1894. Jane Manervy Kelly, born
58 Thk Lauffer History.
Sept. 25, 1896. William Jacob Kelly, horn Oct. 6. 1S98. Grace
Celia Kelly, born Nov. 8, 1900.. Died Feb. 16, 1901, interred
at Union cemetery. Irwin, Pa. Edith Hannah Kelly, born Fib.
i.t, 1902. (b) Mary Jane Kelly, born June 25, 1858, married
Nov. 28, [878, to Henry Atwood, Irwin. Pa., K. F. D., by Rev.
John Huston. To them were born six children. J. F. T. Atwood,
born Oct. 18. 1881, married Dec. 18, 1902, to Elizabeth Rod-
gcrs, by Rev. Fast. P. O. Irwin, Pa. One child, Margaret Jane
Atwood. born Apr. 17, 1904. Martin Lewis Atwood, born Aug.
[8, 1885, died June 12, 1889.. interred Union cemetery, Irwin,
Pa. Carr Joyner Atwood, born July 7, 1888. Adalade Ester
Atwood, born Feb. 15. 1892. Ada Gertrude Atwood, born Feb.
21, 1805. Annie Nora Atwood, born Jan. 1, 1898. (c) Mrs. Wil-
liam Painter, deceased. No report. Resided at Paintertown.
(d) Mrs. Joseph Homey, of Penn Sta.. Pa. No report.
(2) Hannah Lauffer, born June 21, 1835, died Oct 24, 1902.
Married in 1856 to Peter Helman, also deceased. Four chil-
dren, (a) Alice Heiman, of Manor, Pa. (b) Elmer E. Helman,
born Apr. 10, 1861, married Sept. 30. 1885, to Eva M. Painter, by
Rev. A. E. Truxal. Six children. Resides at Irvona, Pa. Mer-
vvn Painter Helman, born Mar. 25, 1887. Thomas Lauffer Hel-
man, born Jan. 25, 1890. Frank Wheeler Helman, born July
5, 1893. Elmer Grant Helman, born June 15, 1895. William
Helman, born Nov. 18, 1897. Fvaline Painter Helman, born
Mar. 9, 1002. (c) William Wilson Helman, Irvona, Clearfield
Co., Pa., married to Mary White. No report, (d) Grant Hel-
man, Manor, Pa., born 1866. Editor of the Irwin Standard-Re-
publican.
('3) Eli Lauffer, born Oct. 10, 1840. Married Aug. 30, 1871,
to Malinda Burger by Rev. N. P. Hacke. She was born May 5,
1846, and died June 12, 1898. To them were born eight children.
(a) Lillie Cecelia Lauffer, born Feb. 28, 1872, married Feb. 10,
1905, to Edward G. Gregg, of Jeannette, Pa. (b) Ida May Lauf-
fer, born June 5, 1873, married Mar. 6, 1902, to Wallace S. Kist-
ler, of Manor, Pa. One daughter, Mary Elizabeth Kistler, born
in June. 1904. (c) Simon William Elmer Lauffer, born Feb. [3,
Beth Lacffer, son of John Sr.
•
The Lauffer History. 59
1875, died APr- I5. l8/6, interred at Brush Creek, (d) Harry
Edward LaufTer, born Nov. 24, 1875, Greensburg, Pa. (e) Har-
rison Clay LaufTer, born Dec. 25, 1878, Manor, Pa. (f) Walter
LaufTer, born Mar. 23, 1S80, died Mar. 28, 1880. (g) Eliphas
Park LaufTer, born June 10, 1881. Married Feb. 15, 1905, to
Flora May Krasner. P. O. Manor, Pa. (h) John Arthur Lauf-
fer, born May 26, 1883, died Jan. 21, 1885. Also interred at
Brush Creek.
(4) Elizabeth Elmira LaufTer, born Dec. 15, 1843. Mar-
ried to William Miles. One son, Walter Miles, of Irwin, Pa.
No report as to date of her death.
(5) Mary Jane LaufTer, born July 31, 1848, married June 3,
1884, to P. George Baughman, of Manor, Pa.
VTI. Seth LaufTer, son of John, Sr., the son of Christian,
the Pioneer. Seth LaufTer was born Dec. 27, 1806, and died
Nov. 22, 1895. He was married to Elizabeth Miller who
was born Mar. 16, 181 1, and died May 29, 1888. To them were
born thirteen children. 11) Susannah LaufTer, born Sept. 8,
1831. Married to Andrew J. Gosser. She died April 25, 1867,
and was buried at Brush Creek Cemetery. He died July 19, 189S,
and is interred in Union cemetery, Irwin, Pa. They were mar-
ried by Rev. N. P. Hacke. Eight children, (a) Barbara Ann
Gosser, died young, interred at Brush Creek, (b) Angeline Gos-
ser, born Sept. 22. 1854, died young, interred at Brush Creek,
(c) Seth Gosser, born May 11, 1856. Married Sept. 24, 1879,
to Sarah N. Good, by Rev. David B. Lady. Address, Manor,
Pa. Two children. Infant daughter born Dec. 5. 1895, in-
terred Denmark Manor Cemetery. Millard F. Gosser, born Jan.
26, 1888, of Manor, Pa. (d) Mary Catherine Gosser, born May
27, 1^57, married Oct. 19, 1876, to Columbus Kuhns, by Rev.
Homer Smith. Ten children. Daniel Kuhns, born Mar. 9, 1877,
married Dec. 10, 1902, to Maggie May Brown, by Rev. Fast,
and to them was born Mary Catharine Kuhns, Jan. 12, 1903. Ir-
win, Pa. George Andrew Kuhns, born Mar. 7, 1880. John R.
Kuhns, born Feb. 7, 1883. William Seth Kuhns, born May 20,
60 Thk Lauffer History.
1885. Maggie Viola Kuhns, born Oct. 29, 1887. Harry Edward
Kuhns, born Feb. 17. 1890. Clara Josephine Kuhns, born Feb.
19, 1892. died Apr. 17. 1893. Lizzie Ann Kuhns, born Mar. 18,
1894. Mary Theresa Kuhns, born May 22, 1896. Howard Nor-
man Kuhns horn Mar. 3, 1899, died July 3, 1900. Interred
Union cemetery, Irwin, Pa. (e) Henry J. Gosser, born May 6,
i860, died Ma) 6, 1873. (£) Martha Ann dosser, born Apr. 1,
1862, married Mar. 17, 1S87. to William L. Silvis, of Irwin, Pa.,
by VV. A. Keener. Three married children. Minnie Viola Silvis,
born Mar. 20, 1888. Charles Homer Silvis, horn June 3, 189c.
Liddie Ann, hern June n, 1893. (g) William J. Gosser, born
Aug. 20, 1864, married Sept. J 7, 1885, to Mary E. Good, (died
Mar. 5, 1002) by Rev. Hemsath. Six children. Annie M. Gos-
ser, born Dec. 19, 1886. James L. Gosser, born Jan. 10, 1889.
William C. Gosser, born Apr. 13, 1891. Sarah S. Gosser. born
Dec. 25, 1893. Nina Isabel Gosser, born Aug". 6, 1S96. Joseph
S. Gosser, born Oct. 14, 1899. (n) Infant son born Apr. 13,
1867, interred at Brush Creek Cemetery.
(2) Philip Lauffer, son of Seth, son of John, Sr., son of
Christian, the Pioneer, was born Sept 8, 1831. At
his hospitable home, north of Harrison City, the Lauffer reun-
ions had their genesis. He was married Mar. 18, 1833. to Bar-
bara Ellen Yount (died July 31, 1904) by Rev. George Mechlin.
To them were born seven children: (a) George B. Lauffer,
born July 16, 1863, married Dec. 2^, 1893, to Lydia A. Lauffer,
by Rev. J. M. Evans. P. ( ). Harrison City, Pa. Five children.
Infant born Jan. 11, 1897, died Jan 13, 1897, interred Denmark
Manor cemetery. Peter G. Lauffer, born Dec. 10, 1897. Philip
II . Lauffer, born Nov. 27, 1899. Charles E. Lauffer, born Oct.
14, 1901. John Howard Lauffer, born Nov. 19, 1903. (b) Mary
Elizabeth Lauffer, born March 21, 1865, died Oct. 21, 1865. In-
terred at Brush Creek, cemetery (c) David Henry Lauffer, of
Harrison City, Pa., born May 6, 1866. (d) John Seth Lauffer,
born Mar. 20, 1869, married Sept. 4, 1895, to Beckie S. Maxwell,
by Rev. John M. Evans. P. O. Export, Pa., R. F. D. I. Five
children. Infant son born Sept. 21, 1896, died Sept. 23, 1896,
interred Denmark Manor cemetcrv. Ruth F. Lauffer, born Aug-.
Philip Lauffer, Son of Seth.
1)
c
X
Ed
Miss Hannah C. Lauffeb.
T!
John M. Lauffer.
ry'
•
-
Thk Laufpkr History. 6i
29, 1897. Ellen E. Lauffer, born Oct 28, 1900. M. Jean
Lauffer, born Mar. 13. 1902. Glen C. Lauffer, born June 7,
1904. (e) Michael Franklin Lauffer, born July 11, 1873, mar-
lied Jan. 7, 1897, to Annie M. S. Alhvine, by Rev. J. M. Evans.
Four children. Levi Philip Lauffer, born July 5, 1897. Samuel
Wallace Lauffer, horn Oct. 31, 1898. Mary Ellen Lauffer, born
Sept. 5, 1900. Bessie Irene Lauffer, born May 14, 1902. (f)
Simon Peter Lauffer, born Feb. 23, 1875. Harrison City, Pa. (g)
Hannah Catharine Lauffer, born Feb. 3, 1877. Address, Harri-
son City, Pa. She has assisted us materially in the collection
of data for this book. Without her valuable assistance we could
not have secured much of the matter herein presented.
(3) John M. Lauffer, son of Seth, son of John Sr., son of
Christian, the Pioneer, was born Mar. 1, 1S34, 248 West Penn
St., Butler, Pa. Married in i860 to Martha Kline by Rev. N. P.
Hacke. To them were born eleven children, (a) Naomi Emma
Lauffer, born Mar. 26, 1861, married Dec. 28, 1882, to William
Royle, of Hilliard, Pa., by Rev. Bray, (b) Zephaniah P. Lauffer,
born Feb. 28, 1863. married .Mar. 29, 1893, to Sadie E. Dum-
baugh, by Rev. C. Scheel, Butler, Pa. (c) William H. Lauffer,
born Jan. 12, 1865, married Oct. 3, 1889, to Lizzie E. Crossland,
by Rev. J. R. Johnston. Montpelier, Ind. (d) Maggie M. Lauf-
fer, l>orn Jan. 26, 1867, married Mar. 28, 1892, to James VY.
Black, of Parkers Landing, Armstrong Co., Pa., by Rev. E.
Cronenwett. hour children. C. A. B. Glack, born Oct. 21, 189
Martha Romain Black, born Oct. 12, 1895. Hazel S. Black, born
July 12, 1898. Emma E. Black, born Jan. 21, 1901. (e) Sara;!
Ellen Lauffer, born Mar. 3, 1869, married Sept. 20, 1887, to
John H. Simpson, 117 State St., Batavia, N. Y., by Rev. George
E. Titzel. Five children. Katharine Pearle Simpson, born June
10, 1888. George William Simpson, born Dec. 4, 1890, died
Aug. 17, 1895, interred at Kittanning, Pa. Edward Claude
Simpson, born May 17, 18(^5. Randolph Lauffer Simpson, born
Aug. 12, 1901. Charles Clair Simpsfcn, born Aug. 25, 1904.
(f) George A. Lauffer, born May 16, 1871, married Oct. 31,
1895, to Kezia Carnahan, by Rev. J. R. Coulter. Address Eau
Claire, Pa. One child. Zephaniah P. Lauffer, born Feb. 16,
62 The Lauffer History.
1898. (g) Charity C. Lauffer, born May ]2. 1873. married in
1898 to Dacie Weaver. Freeport, Armstrong Co., Pa. (h) James
E. Lauffer. of Butler, Pa., born June 10. 1875. (i) Carrie M.
Louffer. of Butler, Pa., born Alar. 30, 1879. 1 i) Jennie Lauffer,
born April 13. 1882. died Feb. 24. 1833. interred at Bruin, But-
ler Co., Pa. (k) Annie T. Lauffer, of Butler, Pa., born June
<6, 1888.
4) Infant son, .twin of John M. Lauffer, born Mar. 1,
1834. Interred at Harrison City, Pa.
(5J Mary Lauffer, born April 29. 1836, married Mar. 15.
1863, to Jacob Helman, by Squire Mavane. Three children, (^a)
Elizabeth Jane Helman. born Feb. 5. 1864, died June 2. 1878, in-
terred al Long Run cemetery, (b) William S. Helman, born
May 30.. 1865. married Jan. 13. 18S7. to Margaret S. Altman, by
Rev. S. P. Wolfe. South Grcensburg, Pa. Eight children. El-
sie May Helman, born July 0. 18S8. Edgar Thomas Helman,
born Jan. 20, 1890. Robert Eli Helman. born Sept. 2^. 1891, died
Jan. 13, 1892, interred at Union cemetery, Irwin, Pa. Elizabeth
Jane Helman, born Jan. 2^, 1893. Mar; ?\Iargaret Helman. born
Sept. 3. 1894. William Seth Helman, born April 22, 1896.
John Adam Helman, born Dec. 29, 1898. Chalmer E. Helman,
born April 24, 1902. died Jan. 24, 1903. interred at Lnion Ceme-
tery, (c) Jacob H. Helman. born Mar. 2. 1867, J'e(l Sept 2,
1869. interred at Long Run cemetery.
Mary Lauffer. daughter of Seth, was married again Sept.
- iv7o, to Adam Gittens, of South Greensburg, by Squire Me-
Cormick. Five children, (a) .Mary Ellen Gittens, born Aug.
15. 1871, married Nov. 19, [892, to John L. Davis, of South
Greensburg. Pa., by Edward II. Sweeny. Eight children. Mary
Ann Davis, born April 26, 1893. Sarah Jane Davis, born Sept.
12. 1S94. John L. Davis, born Oct. 22, 1896. Philip Thomas
Davis, born Nov. 1, 1898. Eour infant sons, interred in Union
Cemetery, Irwin, Pa., born June 17, 1901, June I, 1902, May 5,
1903, and May 2, 1904. <b) Adam Gittens, of South Greens-
burg, Pa., born June 22, 1872. (c) Maggie May Gittens, born
July 24, 1874, married Sept. 7, 1889, to Columbus K. Geiger, cf
The Lauffer History. 63
Irwin, Pa., by S. C. Remsberg. Three children. Giarles Geiger,
born Jan. 9, 1890, died Aug. 10, 1890 .interred at Union Cemetery,
Irwin, Pa. Edgar C. Geiger, born Dec. 25, 1892. William Seth
Geiger, born Aug. 19. 1894. (d) Maggie May Gittens, of South
Greensburg ,Pa. born July 24, 1874. (e) Philip T. Gittens, born
Oct. 26, 1875. Married Nov. 24. 1904. to Mary A. Johns by
Kev. Shanlis. South Greensburg, Pa. (f) Sue L. Gittens. born
Jan. 28, 1877, married Sept. 28, 1893, to George J. Carroll, of
Youngwood, Pa., by Squire Frederick. Three children. Ethel
May Carroll, born May 1, 1894, died Dec. 22, 1894, interred at
Union cemetery, Irwin, Pa. Hazel Oneta Carroll, born April 22,
1896. George Oburn Carroll, born May 14, 1903.
(6) Catharine Lauffer, daughter of Seth, son of John Sr.,
son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Aug. 7, 1837, married
May 13, 1867, to M. L. Atwood (born April 14, 1839, died Dec.
16, 1897, interred at Ford City, Pa.) by Squire Jones. Seven
children, (a) Emma C. Atwood, born June 28, 1868, married
Oct. 11, 1887, to Robert B. Hartman, of Ford City, Pa., b> P. F.
McClarren. (b) David L. Atwood, born Feb. 27, 1870, married
July 28, 1897, to Elnora Booth, by M. L. Atwood. P. O. Ford
City, Pa. One child. Catharine Emma Atwood, born June 7,
1899. (c) Henry P. Atwood, born May 27, 1871, died Oct. 8,
1873, interred at Brush Creek Cemetery, (d) Albert A. Atwood,
of Ford City, Pa. (e) Hannah E. Atwood, born April 30, 1875,
married July 17, 1894, to Thomas M. Hindes, of Ford City, Pa.,
by Rev. Tick. Four children. Aida Bertha Hindes, born Oct.
8, 1894. Hildred Eva Hindes, born Oct. 31, 1896. Catharine
EHza Hindes. born Oct. 16, 1898. Eliza Pearl Hindes, born
Mar. 14, 1902. (f) Frederick W. Atwood, born Dec. 31, 1876,
married May 6, 1902, to Pearl McAfoose, by Rev. R. C. Bowling.
P. O. Kittanning, Pa. One child. Bertha Margaret Atwood,
born Sept. 21, 1903. (g) Mary Ellen Atwood, born April 4, 1879,
married April 14, 1897, to Lewis H. Cogley, of Ford City, Pa.,
by M. L. Atwood. Four children. Bessie Lillian Cogley, born
Aug. 30, 1897. Margaret Elizabeth Cogley, born Aug. 7, 1899.
Frederick Albert Cogley, born May 25, 1904. Elnora Emma
Cogley, born May 25, 1905.
64 Thk Lauffer History.
(7) Sarah Lauffcr, daughter of Seth. died aged two years,
and was interred at Denmark Manor cemetery.
(8) Elizabeth Lauffer, daughter of Seth, sou of John Sr.,
son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Dee. 14, 1841, married
Mar. 20, 1861, to Samuel Gosser. He was bom Get. 7, 1821,
died April 22, 1867, interred at Brush ("reek Cemetery. Three
children, (a) Alice Almira Gosser. born Nov. j. 1862, married
Mar. 17. 1887. to J. R. Heasly, of Harrison City, Pa., by W. A.
Keener. Three children, Elizabeth Heasiy born ( )ct. 29, 1887,
died Nov. 10, 1887. interred at Harrison City, Pa. Samuel W.
Heasley, born July 4, 1889. George H. Heasly, born June 10,
1893. (b) Francis Marion Gosser, born Oct. 20. 1863, died
July 19, 1865, interred at Brush Creek, (c) Hannah Catharine
Gosser, born Jul}- 6. 1867, died Aug. 20, 1867, interred at Brush
Creek.
(9) Simon Peter Lauffer, son of Seth, was born June 17,
1844, married Oct. 20, 1874. to Hester Manda Guy, (born Jan.
13, 1853). Five children. P. O. Manor, Pa. Simon Seth
Lauffer, born July 13, 1875. Frank William Lauffer, born Nov.
20, 1877. Charles Walter Lauffer, born Mar. 27, 1880. John
Filmor Lauffer, born May 6, T884. Homer Edward Lauffer, born
June 3, 1S88.
(10) Infant son twin of Simon Peter Lauffer, interred at
Denmark Manor.
(11) Henry Paul Lauffer, son of Seth. son of John, Sr., son
of Christian, the Pioneer, was born, June 7, 1847, married Feb.
27, 1873, to Priscilla Bossart by Rev. Nicholas P. Hacke. Mer-
chant at Rankin, Pa. Seven children, (a) Walter Seth Lauffer,
born July 24, 187.;. Married Mar. 26, 1903, to Luna McVey.
Rinard Mills, O. (b) William Andrew Lauffer, of New Mata-
moras, Ohio, born Jan. 15, 1876, married June 15, 1903, to
Mayme Marlow. (c) Edward John Lauffer, born Oct. 25, 1878,
married April 17, 1899, to Rose A. Hoffman, by Rev. Wall. P.
O. Cameron, W. Ya. Four children. Gladys Lauffer, born Jan.
15, 1900. Walter Lauffer, born May 2, 1901. Glenn A. Lauffer,
The Lauffer History. 65
born Jan. 12, 1903. Cecil P. Lauffer, born Oct. 16, 1904. (d)
Margaret Elizabeth Lauffer, born Dec. 19, 1879, married Dec. 25,
1900, to Frank G. Burson, of Teutonia, W. Va., by Rev. W. A.
Hanna. One child. Charles E. Burson, born Nov. 9, 1902. (e)
Estella Mae Lauffer, born May 18, 1882. Bellton, W. Va. (f)
Harry Paul Lauffer, born April 3, 1884, Rankin, Pa. (g) Peari
Lauffer, born Mar. 6, 1888. Rankin, Pa..
(12) Infant daughter interred at Denmark Manor.
(13) Hannah Lauffer, daughter of Seth, son of John, Sr.,
son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Mar. 14, 1855, married
April 25, 1878, to Charles Hines, of Harrison City, Pa., by Rev.
J. S. Fink. Ten children, (a) Jacob Seth Hines, of Harrison
City, born Feb. 19, 1879. (b) Margaret Elizabeth Hines, born
Oct. 14, 1880 ( married Mar. 6, 1902, to A. J. MaGill, of Harrison
City, Pa. One child, Emma Gertrude MaGill, born Jan. 1, 1904.
(c) Charles William Hines, born Nov. 5, 1881. (d) Hannah
Catharine Hines, born Aug. 15, 1884, married Aug. 18, 1903, to
Lewis Baughman, of Jeannette, Pa., by Rev. J. M. Evans. One
child. Charles Baughman, born Nov. 10, 1904. (e) Emma
Gertrude Hines, born Nov. 2, 1886, died July 29, 1887. (f) Anna
Mary Hines, born June 19, 1888. (g) George Oliver Hines, born
May 26, 1890, died Nov. 30, 1893. (h) John Edward Hines,
born Aug. 13, 1802. (i) Henry Paul Hines, born March 19, 1894,
died Aug. 16, 1894. (j) Lucy Ellen Hines, born Oct. 29, 1896,
died Dec. 24, 1897. The four that are deceased are buried at
Union Cemetery, Harrison City, Pa.
(9) tlettie Lauffer, daughter of John Sr., son of Christian,
the Pioneer, was born in 1808, died in April 1892. She is inter-
red at Denmark Manor. She was married in 1847 to Henry
Beamer, Sr. After his death she was again married to Christian
Young, and later was married to Jacob Silvis.
(10) Henry Lauffer, son of John, Sr., son of Christian the
Pioneer, was born in 18 10 and died in 1856. He made his home
with his uncle, George Ashbaugh. He never married.
(ii) Jacob Lauffer, son of John, Sr., son of Christian, the
Pioneer, interred at Llarrison City cemetery. No data received as
66 The Laupper History.
to birth, marriag-e and death, but he lived to a ripe old age. Five
children, (i) Annie L. Lauffer, born Nov. 29, 1846, married
Feb. 2, 1865, to William H. Sowash, of Irwin, Pa., by Rev. Wil-
liam Edgar. Four children, (a) Elizabeth Sowash, born Feb.
21, 1867, married Feb. 2. 1888, to B. M. McWilliams, of Irwin,
Pa., by Rev. S. P. Wolf. One child. Elizabeth McWilliams,
born July 5, i?8g, died Oct. 5, 1890, interred at Union Cemetery,
(b) Williard Fillmore Sowash, born April 28, 1869. died Sept.
16, 1869, interred Union cemetery, Irwin, Pa. (c) Joseph Lauf-
fer Sowash, born April 28, 1870, married June 2, 1897. to Pearl
Dixon, by Rev. J. Dunbar, Irwin, Pa. (d) William Henry So-
wash, Jr.. born July 28, 1876. died July 10, 1877. Interred at
Union Cemetery, Irwin, Pa.
(2) Arch Lauffer, of Jeannette, Pa., son of Jacob, was born
Nov. 19, 1850. married Dec. 26. 1871, to Fannie Keeler by Rev.
J. Howard Kunkle. Nine children, (a) Jacob Frederick Lauf-
fer, born Aug. 7. 1872, died Dec. 14, 1874. (b) William Henry
Lauffer. born Nov. 26, 1874, died Dec. 4, 1878. (c) John Syl-
vester Lauffer, born May 31, 1877, married Oct. 18, 1901, to
Alice Jones, (d) Sarah Charlotte Lauffer, born July II, 1879,
married Dec. 14, 1900, to L. E. Lohr. (e) Mary Ann Lauffer,
born Nov. 28. 1881, married Nov. 26, 1899 to J. E. Donald-
son, of Greensburg, Pa. (i) Edward Lockyer Lauffer, born Jan.
1, 1885, died July 13, 1885. Also interred at Union Ceme-
tery, Harrison City, Pa. (g) Frank Lauffer, born April 24, 1886.
(h) Susanna B. Lauffer. born May 20, 1888. (i) Fannie W.
Lauffer, born Sept. 1, 1894, died Dec. 24, 1895.
(3) Susan Virginia Lauffer, daughter of Jacob, son of John
Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Dec. 28, 1852, mar-
ried Feb. 18, 1869, to John Mansfield, of Paintertown. Pa., by
Rev. Noble G. Miller. Five children, (a) Freddie Walton Mans-
field, born Jan. 2. 1871, died Oct. 1871, interred at Harrison City,
(b) Sadie Olena Mansfield, born July 29, 1873, Irwin Pa. (c)
Milford Sowash Mansfield, born June 2, 1875, married Feb. 2,
1899 to Rachel Brown by Rev. J. Calvin. Two children. Earle
Milford Mansfield, born Dec. 22, 1899. Charles Albert Mans-
field, born Feb. 5, 1902. Irwin, Pa. (d) Joseph Wilson Mansfield,
Fori: Generations— Mrs. Sarah Miller, (nee Lauffer)
daughter Susan ( Mrs. J. F. Landis), grandson, W. H. W.
Landis and great grandson Edgar Carlyle Landis.
i .1
The Lauffer History. 62
born Dec. 15, 1879, married Aug. 18, 1904, to Celia Haines, by
Clerk of Courts, Greensburg, Pa.
(4) Charlotte Temple Lauffer, daughter of Jacob Lauffer,
was born June 7, 1855, married July 28, 1874, to Edward Lock-
yer by Rev. W. P. Wolfe. Six children, (a) William Sowash
Lockyer, born April 7, 1876. Died Ooct. 16, 1880. Interred at Ir-
win, Pa. (b) George Bryant Lockyer, born June 16, 1878, 50 —
22nd st., Wheeling, XV. Va. (c) Bessie Lockyer, born Oct. 31,.
18S0. (d) Kdward Archie Lockyer, born Sept. 16, 1883,
(e) Charlotte Temple Lockyer, born July 2, 1891. The latter
four reside at 320 Patterson avenue, McKeesport, Pa.
(5) Jennie Lauffer. daughter of Jacob. No data received.
12. Sarah Lauffer, daughter of John St., son of Christian, the
Pioneer, was born July 12, 1814, died Oct. 6, 1901. Married to
Simon Miller. Light children.
(1) John M. Miller, born May 20, 1832, married June 4,
1854, to Catharine Good. Died Nov. 14, 1902. Interred at Den-
mark Manor. Seven children, (a) David Christian Miller, of
Harrison City. Pa., born Sept. 15, 1861. Married to Anna
Sagcr, now deceased. Six children. Daniel F. Miller, born Feb.
11. 1883. Alice May Miller, born July, 1887. Catharine Duella
Miller, born March 16,1892. David Miller, born June 1895. Henry
Miller, Anna Miller, born Feb. 4,1897. (b) HenrySimon Miller, of
Westmoreland City, Pa., born Aug. 29, 1862. Married to Sarah
Epley. Two children. Lyda Belle, born in June 1885, married
Dec. 25, 1902 to Robert Kohl, of Harrison City, Pa. One child.
And Katharine Miller, born Sept. 10, 1891. (c) Sarah Anna
Miller, born Aug. 28, 1864. Married to David Kuhns, of East
McKeesport, Pa. Five children. Daisy Lurline Kuhns, born
Sept. 12, 1884. Esmerelda Mae Kuhns. Minnie Catherine Kuhns.
W'ilber Morris Kuhns, born Nov. 10, 1890. Bessie Kuhns, born
Sept. 1, 1892. (d) Elizabeth Margaret Miller, born Mar. 6, 1866.
Married to Robert Kuhns, of East McKeesport, Pa. Nine chil-
dren of whom four died in infancy, namely, Elmer, Frank, Roy
and Walter. Charles Kuhns, born Jan., 1886. Robert Kuhns,
born April, 1898. (e) Minnie Belle Miller, born April 7, 1871. (f)
68 The Laupper History.
Joseph Franklin Miller, born Oct. 20, 1873. (g) William John
Miller, born Mar. 23, i88r.
(2) Levi Henry Miller, born Mar. 8, 1834, married to Eliza-
beth Rose. One daughter. Hannah Catherine Miller.
(3) Catherine Miller, born July 20, 1836 died Dec. 12, 1855.
Interred at Denmark Manor. Married to Andrew Klingensmith,
also deceased. Two children, (a) Elizabeth Klingensmith (de-
ceased), was married to James Mitchell, and left two children,
Susan Mitchell and Frank Mitchell, (b) Sarah Klingensmith,
married Mar. 5, 1872 to James Logan, of Donegal, Westmore-
land Co., Pa. Thirteetn children. Rachel Dessie Logan, born
Jan. 14, 1874, married to Joseph Shavier ; two children, Joseph
and Lawrence. Myrtle Joy Logan, born March 17, 1875, mar~
ried to G. A. Myers ; two children, Harold Myers and James
Myers. Elmer Milton Logan, born June 8. 1877. married to
Lizzie GrirTen : two children, Bula Logan and Edward Logan.
William Andrew Logan, born Feb. 17, 1880. Julia Ann Logan,
born Dec. II, 1882, married to Peter Firmstone, of Mt. Pleas-
ant, Pa. ; three children, William, James and Harry. James
Blaine Logan born Jan. 6, 1884, died April 5. 1885. Florence
Mildred Logan, born Feb. 6, 1886. Verona Mae Logan, born
May 17, 1888. Bednago S. Logan, born May 23, 1890. May B.
Logan, born Aug. 27, 1892. Sadie Viola Logan, born Oct. 3,
1894. Irene K. Logan, born April 21, 1896. Canrissa G. Logan,
born Oct. 18, 1890.
(4) Susan Miller, daughter of Sarah Laufter, was born
Aug. 9, 1841, married Aug. 23. 1864, to John F. Landis, of Penn
Station, Pa. Four children, (a) William Harrison Weimer Land-
is, born Mar. 13. 1866, married Oct. 22,, 1889, to Sarah Potts.
Four children. Edgar Carlyle Landis, born Sept. 1, 1890. Mar-
g;iretta Helene Landis, born Jan. 3, 1893. John Franklin Land-
is. born Sept. 6, 1896. Susan Elizabeth Landis, born Dec. 20,
1902. (b) Aaron Franklin Landis, born Mar. 21, 1868, married
Oct. 29, 1902, to Elizabeth Compiler Rankin. One son, David
Rankin Landis, born Sept. 29, 1903, died 1905. A. Frank Land-
is is the enterprising editor of the Westmoreland Journal, of
Jeannette, Pa. (c) Sarah Arabella Landis, born June 14, 1871.
■J.
it
3
Q
EC
The Lauffer History. 69
(d) Anna Mary Landis, born April 28, 1874, Penn Station, Pa.
We are indebted to Miss Anna Landis for the data of the Sarah
Lauffer section, as presented in this volume:
(5) Joseph Miller, born Feb. 3, 1896, now deceased. Buried
at Denmark Manor. Married to Mary Ann Simmonds. No issue.
(6) Mary Ann Miller, born April 20, 1848, died 1851, inter-
red at Denmark Manor.
(7) Aaron Miller, of Penn Station, Pa., born April 22, 1852.
Married to Anna Wolfe. Three children, (a) William Jacob
Miller, born Aug. 21, 1875, married in June, 1901, to Emma
Sarver. One child, Howard Miller, born Feb. 22, 1903. (b)
Laura Belle Miller, born May 20, 1878, married to Jacob Bricker,
May 2, 1894. One child, Weldon Bricker, born May II, 1899.
(c) Viola May Miller, born May 13, 1881, married to Daniel Bor-
lin, of Greensburg, Pa., died Feb. 13, 1904. One child Eliza-
beth, born March 8, 1900.
(8) Elizabeth M. Miller, born Dec. 9, 1855, married Dec.
2, 1893, tc J. B. Peterson, Ligonier, Pa. Mary Miller, born Jan.
4, 1877, married Jan. 28, 1902, to Harry Sanner, of Greensburg,
Pa.
13. Hannah Lauffer, daughter of John Sr., by his wife Bar-
bara, died when quite young and was interred at Denmark Manor
Cemetery.
14. Catherine Lauffer, youngest in the family of John Sr.,
son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born July 16, 1823, married
Jan. 7, 1841, to Hezekiah Waugaman, by Rev. N. P. Hacke.
Hezekiah Waugaman was born June 3, 1818, died June 8, 1897.
Grandmother Waugaman now makes her home with Mrs. Ed.
Kemerer, her daughter Mary. Her mind is clear and mental fa-
culties unimpaired. Her knowledge of exact dates of incidents in
the Lauffer History is quite remarkable. Thirteen children. (1)
Hannah Rachel Waugaman, born Aug. 20, 1842, died Nov. 4,
1902. Married to W. S. Naley, 6724 Lowe Ave., Chicago, 111.
Seven children. Duella Minerva Naley, Presley Owens Naley,
Harry Hirst Naley, Emma Valeria Naley, married June 29, 1904,
7o Thk Laufper History.
to Harris Freeman, of Orange, N. J., Anna Jane Naley, Tracy
Matilda Naley, Elsie Naley. (2) Cynthia Elizabeth Waugaman,
horn May 20, 1844, married in 1862 to John Bushager. He was
a private in Company K, 168 Reg't. and died at Newburn, N. C,
Mar. 5, 1863, interred Plot 7, grave 117. Address Irwin, Pa. One
child, Sarah J. Bushager, born in 1863, married in 1886 to Lewis
C. Henry. To them were born: Charles B. Henry, in 1887, John
\Y. Henry in 1889, Mildred Louise Henry in 1898. (3) Lavinda
Susanna Waugaman, born July 23, 1846, died Mar. 4, 185 1. (4)
Boa EHas Waugaman, born Jan. 24, 1848, died Dec. 26, 1895.
Married to Mrs. Lucy Lord, nee Smith. To them were born three
children, Tracy La Burr Waugaman, born June 21, 1884, Arthur
Waugaman, and Dewey Waugaman. (5) Jeremiah Asa Waug-
aman, born Feb. 8, 1850, married Dec. 26, 1872, to Rebecka Jane
Pool (born Apr. 17, 1853). Address, Greensburg. Pa. Eight
children, (a) Minnie Sophia Waugaman, born July 25, 1873.
Married to F. L. McKeever. of Greensburg, Pa. (b) Ira Alvin
Waugaman, of Manor, Pa., born Apr. 2, 1875. Married Sept. 11,
1902, to Emma Mull, (c) Annie Mary Waugaman, born Aug.
12, 1876, married to A. K. McCurdy, Greensburg, Pa. (d) Wal-
ter Scott Waugaman, of Greensburg, Pa., born Feb. 4, 1878,
married to Cora Kuhns. (e) Bertha Salome Waugaman, born
Feb. 5, 1880, married to H. H. Holtzer, of Darrah, Pa. (f)
Hezekiah Asa Waugaman, born Aug. 13, 1881. (g) Willmina
Kathrin Wagaman. born Mar. 7, 1 884 . married to J.C Barr, of
Greensburg, Pa. (h) Samuel Pool Waugaman, born Jan. 4,
1886, died Oct. 21, 1 90 1.
(6) Silas Peter Waugaman, son of Catharine Lauffer,
daughter of John Sr.. son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born
May 14. 1852, died Oct. 12, 1899. Married Nov. 11, 1875, to
Katharine Peters, by Rev. Bartholomew. Three children, (a)
Robert A. Florence Waugaman, born Oct. 2. 1876. Married June
4, 1902, to James A. Norris. He died Apr. 24, 1903, and is
interred in Bradford Cemetery, Centre Co., Pa. (b) Harry Oscar
Waugaman. of Turtle Creek, Pa., born Oct. 15, 1880, married
Jan. 30, 1901, to Bertha E. Powell, (c) Eugene Glenn Waug-
aman, of Turtle Creek. Pa., born Sept. 14. 1897.
The Lauffer History. 71
(7) John Henry Waugaman born Feb. 13, 1854. Died Dec.
27, 1894.
(8) Ezra Hezekiah Waugaman, born Sept. 12, 1855. Died
Aug. 15, 1892. Married to Jennie Forscyth. No report.
(9) Francis Marion Waugaman, son of Catherine, was born
Sept. 24, 1857. Married Mar. 15, 1883, to Alice Earhart. P. O.
Harrison City, Pa. Two children. Frank L. Waugaman, born
Aug. 29, 1884. Garnett W. Waugaman, born Apr. 1, 1886.
(10) George Washington Waugaman, born July 12, 1859.
Married Apr. 7, 1887, to Amanda J. Snyder, by Rev. A. E. Trux-
al. He resides north of Harrison City, on the Hezekiah Waug-
aman farm, formerly the John Lauffer, Sr., homestead. Two
children. Emma Catherine Waugaman, born Oct. 4, 1888, and
Mary Elizabeth Waugaman, born Dec. 21, 1901.
(11) Rev. Simon Uriah Waugaman, pastor of the Re-
formed church at Rimersburg, Pa., born Feb. 5, 1862, married
June 16, 1892, to Emma Highburger, by Rev. A. E. Truxal.
Three children. John Nevin Waugaman, born May 18, 1893. Si-
mon Hezekiah Waugaman, born Aug. 10, 1896. Stanley Alerle
Waugaman, born June 30, 1899.
(12) William Hiram Waugaman, born Sept. 1, 1863. Gra-
duate D. D. S., Univ. of Pennsylvania, Class of 1891. Practic-
ing at Turtle Creek, Pa. Married July 15, 1896, to Ada Virginia
Stirling (born Dec. 26, 1865). To them were born: Helen Stir-
ling Waugaman, born Apr. 30, 1898. Marjore Waugaman, born
Mar. 2, 1901, died June II, 1901. Elsie Marion Waugaman,
born Nov. 17, 1902.
(13) Mary C. Waugaman, youngest in the family of Cath-
erine, daughter of John Sr., son of Giristian, the Pioneer, was
born Sept. 10, 1865. Married Nov. 22, 1888 to Edward D. Kem-
erer, of Harrison City, Pa., by Rev. A. E. Truxal. Died Oct. 31,
1905. Nine children. Charlie W. Kemerer, born Apr. 10, 1889.
Elizabeth M. Kemerer, born Oct. 27, 1890. Simon E. Kemerer,
born May 12, 1892. Amanda B. Kemerer, born Jan. 15, 1894.
Catherine E. Kemerer, born Sept. 17, 1895. Mabel G. Kemerer,
born Apr. 12, 1897. Ray M. Kemerer, born Mar. 23, 1899. Mary
D. Kemerer, born June 6, 1901. Francis Edward Kemerer, born
Mar. 23, 1903.
HENRY LAUFFER BRANCH.
The family of Henry Lauffer, Sr., son of Christian Lauffer,
the Pioneer.
Henry Lauffer, Sr., was a farmer and lived all his life on the
old LaufFer place, near Pleasant Unity, the farm on which Simon
Trice now lives. Henry Lauffer, Sr., was laid to rest in the old
Bash cemetery in February, 1821, aged 67 years, 5 months and
19 days. By his side rests Barbara, his wife, whose maiden
name was Alliman. She died May 14th, 1846, aged 75 years and
26 days. This old cemetery is on the Somer's farm of the present
day, near the Thomas school house, in Unity township, West-
moreland county. It is a two acre lot, willed in perpetuity for ce-
metery purposes. This is the same cemetery in which his father
Christian Lauffer, our common ancestor, lies buried.
In Pennsylvania Archives, Volume 23, Page 226, Third
Series, we find that Henry Lauffer is enrolled among "Rangers
of the Frontiers 1778 to 1783" for Westmoreland county.
Until the death of Henry, Sr., his son Henry lived with him
on the old homestead. He kept a wayside tavern for some twen-
ty years before his death in 1821. He was a farmer but the stage
coaches passed his house, and the passengers wanted "pieces"
and meals, and there were many weary travelers to be kept over
night. All the grocery stores sold whiskey in those days, it was
as ncessary as molasses and coffee in that age, and of course, it
could be found at that hospitable farm house.
Henry, Sr., died prematurely from an injury to his foot that
became infected. He was still a young man at 67. Barbara, his
wife, lived 25 years after his death, which years she spent in the
home of Henry Jr., and later with her daughter Polly, the wife
of Jacob Grcss, Sr.. who lived along Pine Run, near North
Washington, Westmoreland county Jacob Gress, Sr., purchased
a farm just south of Pleasant Unity and removed there in 1837,
The Lauffer History. 73
from which place Barbara was laid to rest by the side of her hus-
band, as before stated.
It was very amusing to the writer, listening to Jacob Gress
and Henry Gress, of Pleasant Unity, as they related reminiscenc-
es of their grandmother.
"Grandmother was real strict. She often whipped us. When
mother wished us to do anything, we were in no hurry, but when
grandmother asked us, we obeyed promptly. When she said any-
thing, she meant it."
The family of Henry Lauffer, Sr., consisted of:
1 Henry Jr.
2 John.
3 Susanna.
4 Mary (Polly)
5 Elizabeth.
1. Henry Jr., son of Henry Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer,
was born December 27th, 1793, and his wife Anna Marie Gress
was born September 3rd, 1795. They were married in Septem-
ber, 1814. His wife died April 24, 1870, aged 75 years, 2 months,
21 days. He died April 18, 1873, aged 79 years, 3 months, 22
days. His family bible is in the hands of his son, Isaac Lauffer,
of Greensburg, and the records are in perfect form.
He resided with his father, Henry Sr., on the old home-
stead until the death of the latter in 1821, after which he lived on
a farm just west of Greensburg. He later moved into the Manor
Valley. He conducted a large business and acquired consider-
able property. For many years he operated a Fulling Mill in the
Manor Valley, on the present James McKeever farm in Penn
township. Home-made cloth, flannels and blankets were brought
for many miles to his mill to be fulled. Fulling shrunk the cloth
and made it thicker, closer and softer. He built the first brick
house in the Manor Valley.
He began wagoning, driving a big conestoga wagon, with
four or six horses, between Pittsburg and Baltimore, when only
sixteen years old.
His family consisted of twelve :
1. Hannah Lauffer, daughter of Henry Jr., son of Henry Sr.,
74 The Lauffkr History.
son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born January 12, 1S15, was
married Februan 5th, 1845. Died November 5th, 1904. In-
ter rt-d in St. 1 emetery, Greensburg, Pa.
To them were born seven children: (1) Elizabeth Baer, born
Dec. 9. 1838, married August 20. 1857. to Jacob Welty by Rev.
W. H. Locke. To them were born eight children, (a) Emma
Welty, born Aug. 3, 1858, died Sept. 3. 1904. Interred at Irwin,
Pa. (b) Isaac Baer Welt}', born Eeb. 2, i860, married June 28,
1803, to Olive McEarland. Resides in Irwin, (c) Franklin Lewi?
Welty, born July 3. 1862, died May I, 1890. (d) Lizzie Welty,
born May 3, 1864, married May 15, 1889, to James C. Overholt,
of Beaver. Pa. (e) Noble Miller Welty, born Sept. 10. 1867, mar-
ried June 26, 1895, to Henrietta Hoelzel. Died Feb. 6, 1900. (f)
Harry Thomas Welty, born Aug. 13, 1870, married June 16,.
1898, to Jean Kendig. Resides at Wilmerding, Pa. (g) Ella
Edna Welty, born Oct. 20, 1873, married Apr. 24, 1900, to J. II.
McKean, of Wilmerding. Pa. (h) Curtis Blaine Welty. of Irwin,
Pa., born April 22, 1882.
^2) Mary Baer, married to Joseph Smith, June 12, 1853^
Both are dead. No data received.
(3) Susanna Baer, died in childhood.
(4) Lucy Baer, born Sept. nth, 1846, married October
2^,. 1854, to Amos Loughner, of Manor, by Rev. John H. W:ag-
ntr. To them were born five children: (a) Logan Mayberry
Loughner, of Braddock. Pa., born Nov. 9, 1865, married Sept.
8, 1887. to Katherine Man Byers, to whom were born two chil-
dren, (b) Lulu Bella Loughner ,born Oct. 8, 1867, married Nov.
1&4, to W. J. Beamer, of Manor, Pa., of the John Lauffer
branch, to who were born two children, Lucy Margaret Beamer
and Paul Beamer. (c) Frank Wilmer Loughner, born Apr. 18,
1870. died Aug. 11, 1871. (d) Charles Howard Loughner, born
October 10. 1873. died Sept. 21, 1879. Both are interred in the
St. Clair Cemetiry. Greensburg, Pa. (e) Anna Kate Loughner,
born Dec. 13, 1878, married Sept. 25, 1901, to Lawrence P. Rank-
in, of Braddock, Pa.
(5) William Jacob Baer, born January 7th, 1845, died in
Thk Laufper History. 75
(('») Ella B. Baer, born Oct. 22, 1852, married Nov. 7, 1872,
to Nelson M. Baker, of Greensburg, Pa. One child, Laura Iso-
dore Baker, born February 18, 1873, married March 27, 1897, to
Edward Mcchling, of Greensburg, Pa., to whom were born Edna
Isadore Mechling and Jean Mathella Mechling.
(7) Anna M. Baer, born November 14, 1854, married May
13, 1875. to James L. McWilliams, of Greensburg, Pa. To them
were born three daughters: (a) Edith B. McWilliams. (b) Jean
L. McWilliams, married Aug. 28th, 1901. to Earl D. Fisher, (c)
Efflo Proctor McWilliams.
II. Infant daughter, lived two days, born in 1817.
III. Sosanna Lauffer, born Mar. 30. 1818, died Jan. 5, 1837.
IV. Maria Anna Lauffer, daughter of Henry Jr., son of
Henry, Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, wos born Mar. 11, 1820.
Married Alar. 23, 1837, to Peter Waugaman (born 1812, died
1886). She resided with her daughter at 324 South Negley
ave., Pittsburg, Pa. Died Sept. 30, 1905. Eleven children. (1) Asa
Waugaman, born 1840, died 1880. Married to Susanna Glunt
and again to Mary Underwood. Left three children, (a) Anna
Waugaman, who married Jacob B. Petkin, and died in 1899. (b)
Leonard Waugaman and (c) Marie Waugaman, both of East
Liberty. Pa.
(2) Henry John Waugaman, the second in die family of
Mary Ann Lauffer, died aged four years.
(3) Lucy Ann Waugaman, born Sept. 17, 1843, married
in 1S00. to P. R. Brinker, of Manor, Pa., by Rev. N. P. Hacke.
P. R. Brinker was born Feb. 18, 1841. Five children, (a) Anna
Mary Brinker. born July 16, 1862. Married Feb. 18. 1885 to R.
W. Evans, of Greensburg, Pa. Two children, Paul and Ruth, (b)
William F. Brinker, born Mar. 16, 1865. Married Mar. 24, 1888
to Clara Pumilla Beamer. For children see Elizabeth section of
John Lauffer, Sr., division, (c) Araminta D. Brinker, born Dec
27, 1866. Married in March 1887 to Wr. C. Rankin, of Johns-
town, Pa. Three children. Irene Rankin, born 1887, Julian
Rankin, born 1889, Marguerite Rankin, born 1891. (d) Charles
H. Brinker, of Manor. Pa., born July 27, 1869. Married in
March, 1890, to Annie Cope. Three children. Fred. Brinker,
76 Tin: Lauffer History.
born Aug. 20. 1890. LeRoy Brinker died Apr. 3, 1893, aped two
years, four months. Dorotha Brinker, born Sept. 14, 1898. (e)
Roberta F. Brinker, born July 26, 1876, married Aug. 1895 to
Harry O. Steiner. Two sons. Madaline Steiner, born Sept. 13,
1896, dii d May 16, \<>02.
(4) Hannah Mary Waugaman, born 1845. died 1876, wife of
Alph Brinker, Pittsburg, Pa.
(O Zachariah Waugaman, born 1847. Dentist. Greensburg,
Pa.
(6) Isaac Waugaman, born May 1849. Died Sept. 1893.
Married to Agnes McClaren. Two children. Edward Waugaman,
Dentist, and Maud Waugaman, both of Pittsburg, Pa.
(7) Sarah Elizabeth Waugaman, born 1851, married Dec.
1880, to Landon Warren. Died in May 1900.
(8) Mariah Rachel Waugaman, born 1853. Married to Reu-
ben Brinker, who died in 1875. Married again about 1879 to
Frank Fisher, of East End, Pittsburg, Pa. One son Joseph Fisher,
born in 1885.
(9) Simon Peter Waugaman, born 1855, died July 1900.
Married to Anna Walthour. Three children. Mabel Waugaman,
married to Charles Myers, Clarence Waugaman, also of McKees-
port, Pa., and Abagail Waugaman, deceased.
(10) Emma Waugaman, born Mar., i860, married to Harry
Ludwick. Two children. Hazel Ludwick and Lillian Ludwick,
Pittsburg, Pa.
( 11) Georgia Waugaman, born in 1864, married to Frank
Rust, East Pittsburg, Pa.
V. Jacob F. Lauffer, son of Henry Jr., son of Henry Sr.,
son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Mar. 24, 1822. Married
in spring of 1S45 to Susannah Cribbs ( born Apr. 23, 1829, died
Oct. 22, 1891, interred at Denmark Manor). Address Smithton,
Pa. Ten children. (1) Priscilla Lauffer, born Feb. 24, 1846.
Died Octolxr 28, [904. Married in 1861 to Jacob H. Fry, P. O.
Scottdale, Pa. To them were born eleven children, (a) Ida L.
Fry, born Oct. 7. 18O2, died July 6, 1870. (b) Susannah B. Fry,
born Mar. 16, 1864, married Aug. 20, 1885, to Charles P. Neu-
bert. Jeannette, Pa. Five children. Walter Henry Neubert, born
Jacob F. Lalffek, Son of Henry Jr.
Mks. Jacob F. Lauffer, nee Susannah Cribbs.
Thf Lauffer History. 77
June 5, 1887. William Charles Neubert, born Dec. 17, 1888.
Oscar Theodore Neubert, born Feb. 5, 1890. Alice Adalie Neu-
bert, born Dec. 7, 1892. Jacob Sylvester Neubert, born May 11,
1894, died July 20, 1S94. (c) Mary Ellen Fry, born Apr. 17, 1868,
married Jan. 16, 1890, to James E. Painter, by Rev. A. E. Trux-
al. Seven children. Bertha Bell Painter, born Sept. 13, 1890. Eva
May Painter, born Sept. 21, 1891. Myrna Edith Painter, born
July n, 1893. Delia Viola Painter, born Aug-. 25, 1894, died
Nov. 12, 1894. Interred at Denmark Manor. Frank Earl Painter,
born July 19, 1896. Blanche Orpha Painter, born Mar. 17, 1898.
Ada Alletha Painter, born July 18, 1902. (d) Arabella C. Fry,born
Dec. 14, 1869, married Aug;. 11, 1881, to James Johnston, P. O.
Humphreys, Pa. Seven children. Jennie Alverda Johnston, born
Apr. 18, 1888. J. Wallace Johnston, born November
24, 1889. Maud May Johnston born June 12, 1891. Paul Clif-
ford Johnston, born Sept. 25, 1892. Mabel Fry Johnston, born
Nov. 4, 1894. Ned Ephriam Johnston, born Oct. 6, 1897. Laura
Belle Johnston, born Aug. 27, 1900. (e) Simon P. Fry, born 1872,
died Feb. 5, 1873. (f) Sadie Mintie Fry, born Apr. 20, 1874, mar-
ried Jv/.ie 27, 1896, to William Reagan, P. O. RufTsdale, Pa.
Three children. Maude G. Reagan, l>orn Oct. 22, 1896. May D.
Reagan, born July 1, 1898. Harrison E. Reagan, born Nov. 6,
1900. (g) Jacob H. Fry. born Aug. 2y, 1876, died Nov. 24, 1876.
(h) Infant Daughter, born Sept. 3, 1878, died Sept. 7, 1878. (i)
Oscar S. Fry, born Sept. 26, 1879. (j) Clifford A. Fry, born
Sept. 6, 188 1, died Sept. 3, 1882. (k) Eva D. Fry, born Sept. 29,
1883, died Nov. 18, 1888.
(2) Mary Elizabeth Lauffer, born Mar. 2, 1848, married
Oct. 10. 1867, to Zeph Brinker, of Scottdale, Pa. Five children.
(a) Logan Elvie Brinker, born Aug. 25, 1868, died Oct. 7, 1880.
(b) Wilson Melvill Brinker, born Feb. 26, 1873, married Dec.
20, 1899, to Mary Ellen Smith. Johnstown, Pa. Two children.
Maybelle Fern Brinker, born Oct. 22, 1890. Jackson Brinker, born
July 15, 1903. He was Bugler in Co. K, icrth Pa. Vol., and saw
service in P. I. (c) Carlton Sherwood Brinker, born Aug. 13,
1878, died Oct. 12, 1880. (d) Myrna Mae Brinker, born Apr.
8, 1883. (e) Susa Fern Brinker, born July 12, 1887, died Apr.
21, 1892.
78 The Lauffer History
(3) Henry A. Lauffer, the Mai . \ is born Mir.
10. [850; married June 27, [872, to Josepl i 1 . Beamer (born
June 2, [8 »\ Rev. \. P. Hacke. II. V Lauff r is
dent of the Manor National Bank, and ' tor in the
Irwin National Bank ever since its organ 1 .He is a mem-
• • councils ir children, (a) Infant Son died Sept. 4. [873.
Interred at Denmark Manor, (b) Charl< - us Lauffer, born
July 2- 1875. As secretary oi the publicati n ittee, lias
compiled f ir the printers mosl of the data prcs< I in this book.
He received his A. B. degree from Franklin and Marshall Col-
lege in 1900 ami his M. D. degree from the University of Penn-
sylvania, in 1905. He is now resident physician at the Chester
hospital. Chester, Pa., (c) Maude J. S. Lauffer, born Dec. 1. 1880,
a graduate c<\ Woman's College, Frederick, Mm. and teacher in
the Third Ward schools, in Allegheny, Pa. (d) Raymond Abner
Lauffer, born Dec. n, 1883. He graduated from the Academic
department of the Greensburg Seminary in June, 1899. For two
years attended the Western University of Pennsylvania, where
he took first prize in mechanical drawing'. Employed by the
Westinghouse Electrical Co., at draughting. Died Nov. 5, 1902,
in his Junior Year, while a student at Massachusetts Institute
of Techm g; . Boston, Mass. Interred at Brush Creek Ceme-
tery.
(4) Hannah C. Lauffer, fourth in the family of Jacob F.,
was married in the spring of 1873 to James Steel, of near
Ha ' ...,.. Pa. She had one son, Elmer Steel, married. Three
children. N > response.
(5) Edward C. Lauffer, born Oct. 10. 1854. Married June
24. [880 to Salome Wauga lan. Irwin Pa., R. F. D. Ten chil-
dren. Harn Lauffer, born Deo. 2, 1881, died Aug. 23, n)oi.
Hiram Josiah Lauffer, born June 27, 1883. Lloyd Jacob Lauffer,
born June [3, 1885. Joseph Iddings Lauffer, born Apr. 2, 1887.
( larence * reorge Lauffer, born Apr. 20, 1889. Mase Coyl Lauffer,
born Jan. 15, [891. Paul Price Lauffer. born Aug. 19, 1892,
died Sept. 4. 1S04. Loula Prances Lauffer, born Nov. 1, 1894.
Edith Irene Lauffer, born Sept. 2, 1896, died Dec. 23, 1896. Adel-
U Elizabeth Lauffer, born Mar. 27, 1901.
II. A. Lauffeb, the Manob Merchant.
Mks. II. A. Lauffer, net' Josephine Loui.=a Beamer,
Charles A. L\uffer, A. M., M. I).
Secretary of the Lauffer History Committee.
I ^^ «-
Hfete. ""^
» * ^^W^^P ^^^M
•if
Raymond A. Laiffer, son of H. A.
Born D^c. 11, 1883. Died Nov. 5, 1902.
8 \miki. Lauffer,
bod of Henrv Lauffer.
Thf Lauffer History. 79
(6) Maranetta Arabel Lauffer, born Oct. 26, 1856. Married
Nov. I J, 1875, t0 Aaron Bushyager. Harrison City, Pa. Five
children, (a) Gertrude Evelin Bushyager, born Sept. 28, 1876,
married Nov. 23, 1898, to William Howard Newcomer. One
daughter, (b) Charles Edward Bushyager, of Youngwood, Pa.,
born July 15, 1878. Married, (c) Howard Osmond Bushyager,
born Jan. 23, 1880. (d) Milton Clifford Bushyager, born July 8,
1881. (e) Homer Jacob Bushyager, born May 2, 1883, died Aug.
9, 1883.
(7) Gilbert William Lauffer, born Mar. 22, 1859.
(8) Sarah Ellen Laufifer, married to Jas. A. Beamer. Two
daughters, Blanche and Margaret.
(9) Oliver A. Lauffer, born Sept. 17, 1863. Accidentally
shot while rabbit hunting, Dec. 23, 1878.
( 10) Annetta R. Lauffer, born Mar. 10, 1866, married Dec.
17, 1885, to Elijah Bushyager. Harrison City, Pa. Eight chil-
dren. John Wallace Bushyager, born Oct. I, 1886, died Dec. 18,
1887. Curtis Elton Bushyager, born Dec. 9, 1887. Roy Orton
Bushyager, born Apr. 15, 1890. Lee Ross Bushyager, born Jan.
20, 1894. Merle Jay Bushyager, born Feb. 5, 1895. Hazel Fern
Bushyager, born Mar. 5, 1896. Glen Ray Bushyager, born Nov.
19, 1897. Annetta Margaret Bushyager, born May 12, 1901.
Vt Henry Lauffer, born Mar. 25, 1824, died Nov. 15, 1833.
VII. Samuel Lauffer, son of Henry Jr., son of Henry Sr.,
son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Sept. 28, 1826, died
in 1890. "At Cumberland, Md., in her early home, among her
dearest friends, Mrs. Eliza Ellen, wife of Samuel B. Lauffer,
of Pittsburg, Pa., and eldest daughter of Hon. L. N. Buchan-
an, of Allegheny Co., Md., aged twenty-seven years, eight
months, twenty-two days." He was for many years postmaster
at Greensburg, Pa. He later conducted a book store on Wood
street, Pittsburg, and at the beginning of the Civil war, entered
the service. He was in the Federal service the rest of his life.
He left one son, John Lauffer, of Washington, D. C, lately de-
ceased.
VIII. William Paul Lauffer, born Apr. 22, 1828, died Sept.
13, 1839.
8o The Lauffer History.
IX. Isaac Lauffer, son of Henry Jr.. son of Henry Sr., son of
Christian, the Pioneer, of Greensburg, Pa., born May 12, 1830,
married Mar. 10. 1853, to Lydia Fox. Right children.
(1) Cyrus Markle Lauffer, born Jan. 25. 1854, died Apr. 10,
1S55.
(2) Anna Miry Ellen Lauffer, born July 12, 1S55. Married
to James S. McKeever, June 1, 1870, by Rev. X. P. Hacke. Har-
rison City, Pa. Ten children, fa) Harry C. McKeever, born May
14. 1877. married \v.vx 2$, 1902, to Jean Elizabeth Wilson. To
them was born Helen Wilson McKeever July 8, 1903. Died Sept.
8, 1905. (b) Frank E. McKeever. born May 14. 1877. (c) Twins
Mattie E. and Lydia F. McKeever. born Jar. 14. 1881 ; died Aug.
2, 1884 and Feb. 17. [886. (d) I. Ross McKee-
ver. born Sept. 18, 1882. married in May, 1905. to Jessie Green-
await. Wilkinsburg, Pa. (e) John Paul McKeever, born Sept.
21, 1885. ( 0 Alice May McKeever, b<>rn Aug. 31, 1887. died Aug.
30, 1893. (g) Edith Grace McKeever, born Oct. 13, [889, died
Sept. 4, 1893. (h) Agnes L. McKeever, born June 27. 1892, died
Sept. 14, 1S93. (i) Infant born Oct. 2$, 1898, died same day. In-
terred at Union Cemetery, Irwin, Pa.
(3) William D. Fauffer. of Perm Twp., Westmoreland Co..
Pa., born Aug. 30. 1856, married Feb. 2, 1882. to Annie E.
Klingensmith, by Rev. J. F. Snyder. Six children. Pearl Lydia
Lauffer bom Dec. 31, 1882. Frank Foil Lauffer, born Aug. 25,
1884. Mazie Elizabeth Lauffer. born June. 8. 1886. Elsie Florence
Lauffer, born Nov. 21, 1887. Coyt Brooks Lauffer, born Aug. 22,
1889. died July 16, 1894. Rosco Love Lauffer, born Oct. 7. 1P91.
(4) .Mice Rebecca Lauffer, born Jan. 15, 1858, married Jan.
13, 1881. to Mose Mcllvain, of Boquet. Pa. Six children. O. Tay-
lor Mcllvain, born Feb. 4. 1882. Xina F. Mcllvain, born Apr. 1,
1883. L. Mabel Mcllvain. bom Sept. 23, 1886. Edna F. Mcllvain.
born Mar. 8, 1889. Mary E. Mcllvain. born Oct. 29, 1S92. A.
Ellen Mcllvain, born July 19, 1898.
(5) Franklin Fdward Lauffer. born Aug. 7, 1859. Married
Sept. 15, 1896 in a crowded church of which he was pastor at
Austinsville, ( >hio to Emma E. Klingensmith. Pastor of the
Is\a( Laufper, son of Henry Jr., and wife.
Rev. I'i: \nk E. Laufi er, Ph. I>.
received a unanimous call to Martins-
burg Blair Co. and enters upon his
labors there April 1st, 06, also taking
care of a Mission at Williamsburg where
a church i^ to be built.
The Lauffer History. 8i
Reformed church at Aaronsburg, Centre Co., Pa. Two children.
Ruth Edna Lauffer, born Dec. 22, 1897. Paul Gideon Lauffer,
born Oct. 9, 1900.
(6) Henry John Lauffer, born Dec. 31, i860, married Feb.
22, 1882, to Nannie J. Russell. Irwin, Pa. Six children. Perr> 1
Lauffer, born Apr. 7, 1883. Mattie L. Lauffer, born Sept. 20,
1885. Frank II. Lauffer, born Jan. II, 1888, died Oct. 3, 1898.
Bertha C. Lauffer, born Apr. 30, 1890. John F. Lauffer, born
Aug. 20, 1893. Margaret G. Lauffer, born Feb. 1, 1898.
(7) Infant child born Sept. 16, 1862, died Nov. 12, 1862.
(8) Elmer E. Lauffer, born Nov. 10, 1863, married May 29,
1890, to Anna Elizabeth Fink. P. O. Trauger, Pa. Seven children.
Olive D. Lauffer, born Mar. 29, ^890. Fink E. Lauffer, born
Nov. 14, 1891. Lydia E. Lauffer, born Oct. 16, 1893. Edgar I.
Lauffer. born Sept. 9, 1895. Clarence J. Lauffer, born Mar. 17,
1898. Elton II. Lauffer, born July 20, 1900. Mabel I. Lauffer,
born Feb. 13, 1902.
(9) Elizabeth Florence Lauffer, born Feb. 26, 1867. Died
Apr. 7, 1877.
X. Paul Lauffer, born Oct. 23, 1832, died Sept. 21, 1840.
XI. Simon Peter Lauffer, son of Henry Jr., son of Henry
Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Aug. 4, 1837, died
1902. He spent his last years in the Soldiers' Home at Wash-
ington. I). C. From his being so long in the military service in
Utah, he was familiarly known as "Utah Simon."
XII. John Lauffer, youngest in the family of Henry Jr.,
son of Henry Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born in 1S39,
died of a fever in 1857. Interred at Denmark Manor.
Elizabeth Lauffer, daughter of Henry Sr., the son of Chris-
tian, the Pioneer, was born in 1795 and died in 1809. She was
married in 1814 to Adam Rumbaugh. Her grandson says: "My
mother died in 1869 and my father died in 1870, six months
after mother's death. They arc interred in the Cemetery on the
Rumbaugh farm." When they moved to Ohio, in March, 1817,
to their farm, in Wayne Co., ten miles north-west of Wooster,
the county seat, they took with them one son, Issac Rumbaugh.
32 Tut: Lax in r History.
We consider the letter of Jacob Rumbaugh of sufficient in-
terest to r< produce it.
T4 Cottage St., Ashland. O.
September 21st. 1903.
To m\ Lauffer friends:
Jn 1816 my grandfather Lauffer entered five quarter sec-
ti( ns of Kind in Wayne Co., O. One section for each of his
children, two boys, Henry and John Lauffer, three girls, Mrs.
Susan Hartzell, Mrs. Poll; Gress and my mother, Elizabeth.
My parents the following March. 1817. moved ir^ni Westmore-
land Co.. Pa., to Ohio, then called the Far West, to the quarter
section cf land my mother received of my grand father, Henry
Lauffer.
1 have three deeds to this quarter section of hind. The
first is printed on buck skin, conveying the land from Jas. Mad-
ison, President of the Lnited States, to Henry Lauffer, of West-
moreland Co., the twentieth day of December 1816. The sec-
ond deed was written on buck skin by John Wells, Notary Public,
of Greensburg, Pa., in iSt 7, conveying- the quarter section of
land from my grandfather Henry Lauffer, to my father Adam
Rurrrbaugh. The third and last deed conveyed the land in 1864
from my parents to myself.
1 was born and raised on the farm, lived forty-two years on
the farm. Winn my parents settled on this farm, Wayne county
was a perfect wilderness. I many times heard my mother relate
that the) cut part of the way from Wooster to ten miles north-
v.<'* f \ »oster to the farm. In the ten miles there were but
two f; livin< on th< road between them and Wooster.
The) did not know of any white settlers to the north-west of
them,
This is a beautiful farm of 172 acres. We will keep it in
our family as long as it is in our power to do so.
Respectfully,
Jacob Rumbaugh.
Elizabeth Laufler had eleven children.
(11 Isaac Rumbaugh, sen of Elizabeth Lauffer, daughter of
The Laufper History. 83
Henry Sr.. son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born in 18 15 at
Pleasant Unity, Westmoreland Co., Pa., married in 1836 to
Mary Runibaugh. Married again in 1855 to Catharine Piffer.
Died in 1888. interred in the cemetery in the corner of the
Rumbaugh farm. We have no data of descendants further than
that Dr. Rumbaugh, Chicago Junction, Huron Co.. Ohio, is a
descendant. There were eight children.
(2) and (3) Infants.
(4) Henry Rumbaugh, born 1821, married 1843, l° Mary
Rice. He was a soldier and died in Camp Chase, Columbus, O.,
1865. He and his wife are interred at Bucyrus, O. He had four
children.
(5) David Rumbaugh, born 1823. Married in 1S44, to Su-
srmah Tckcs. Died 1894. Interred in Medina Co., O. Seven chil-
dren.
(0) Solomon Rumbaugh, born 1826. Married 1854, to Mary
Miller. Died 1893. interred in Wayne Co., Ohio. Five children.
(7) William Rumbaugh born in 1828. Married in 1853 to
Elizabeth Stratton. Died in 1895, interred in Albany, Oregon.
Five children.
(8) Sarah Rumbaugh, born in 1830. Married in 1854 to
John Fctcrs. Died in 1898, interred in Wayne Co., Ohio. Five
children.
(9"! Hannah Rumbaugh. born in 1833. Married in [853 to
Isaac lckes. Dud in 1896, interred at Ft. Recovery, O.
(10) Jacob Runibaugh, the only one now living in the family
of Eliz. Lauffer, daughter of Henry, Sr., son of Christian, the
Pioneer, was born in 1835. Married in 1859 to Mary Mowrey by
J. J. Excell. She died in 1875 au(l 's interred in Wayne Co.,
Ohio. Married again in 1878 to Agusta Latta. She died in
1900. Interred at Ashland, O. Married a third time to Mary
Weimer, in 1903.
It is by courtesy of Jacob Rumbaugh, that we have the
data presented in tin's section ; not having heard from his bro-
thers and sisters, or their descendants, directly, the data for them
is necessarily incomplete.
S4 The Lauffer History.
Jacob Rumbaugh has three children, (a) Sarah A. Rum-
baugh, born 1S56. Married in 1877 to Dr. L. B. Ash, of Ashland,
Ohio ( hnc son, Dr. R. C. Ash, born .May 10. 1880. Graduate
of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of the University of
Chicago. Address Ashland, (). (b) Ella Rumbaugh, born in
1864, married in 18S0 to G. VV. Schmidt, of Mansfield, O. One
daughter, < >iga j^Vrelia Schmidt, born Feb. 29, 1892. (c) Ira
G. Rumbaugh, born in 1871, married in 1892 to Cora Reed,
Greenwich, ( )hio.
(il) Elizabeth Rumbaugh, born in 1838. Married in 1858
to David Mowrey, of Wooster, Ohio. She died in 1896, and
was interred in Wooster, O.
Mary Lauffer, daughter of Henry Sr., the son of Christian,
the Pioneer, was born July iC, 1799. She was married Mar. 12,
1S18. to Jacob Gress by Rev. Henry Hobblestone. She died
Sum. 2, 1880, aged 81 years, 1 month, 16 days. Jacob Gress was
born Mar. ] 1 , 1793, died Feb. 13, 1883, aged 89 years, 1 1 months,
two days. We copied the family record from the old Family
Bible, now in the hands of her son, Jacob Gress, of Pleasant
Unity, Pa. Eight children.
(i ) Henry Gress. son of Mary Lauffer, daughter of Henry
Sr.. the son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Nov. 14, 1818.
Married Mar. 10, 1841 to Susanna Seanor, (who died Mar. 25,
18431 by the Rev. X. P. Hacke. Again married Sept. 2, 1S45 to
Catherine Fisher, (who died Dec. 2. 1862) by the Rev. H. E. F.
Voight. Married a third time to Elizabeth Mover, Mar. 4, 1869,
by Rev. G. VV. Dusby. One child by the first marriage, ten
b) th< sec nd, three by the third, (a) Fforinda S. Gress, born
Dec. 21, iv>~ii, married to Martin Rash. No response, (b) In-
fant. 1846. (c) Infant, 1850. (d) Mary A. Gress, born July 7,
1847. Died May 22, 1862. (t) Margaret E. Gress. born Dec.
21, 1848. Died Jmu 3, 1862. (f) John Gress, born Dec. 7, 1851,
died May 10. 1862. (g ) Lucinda Gress, born Oct. 10. 1854, died
May 2J, 1862. (hi Jacob H. Gress, born Dec. 17, 1856. Address
Pleasant Unity, Pa. (i) Cyrus Gress born Aug. 21, 1858, died
Sept. 10. 1858. (j) Infant, i860, (k) Infant, 1862. (1) William
Gress born Nov. 30. 1869. Married Dec. 24, 1890, to Lottie
Thb Lauffer History. 85
Cease, by Rev. Cummings. Four children. Address 2620 Carey
Alley. S. S., Pittsburg, Pa. Carrie Alverda Gress born Aug. 2,
1892. William Edward Harvey Gress, born Nov. 9. 1894. Nellie
Elizabeth Gress, born Jan. 6, 1897. Daniel Nevin Gress, born
Aug. 24, 1 901. (m) Rev. Daniel Gress, born Aug. 25, 1872, Pa-
stor of the Reformed church at Centre Hall. Centre Co., Pa.
Married Sept. 2, 1903 to Emma J. Black. One daughter, (n)
Sarah J. Gress, of Pleasant Unity, Pa., born June 2, 1875.
(2) Isaac Gress, son of Mary Lauffer, daughter of Henry
Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Sept. 14, 1820. Died
Jan. 2, 1873. Married Apr. 22, 1858, to Lucinda Trauger, who
was born Sept. 16, 1834, died May 4, 1878. Pour children, (a)
Anna M. Gress, born May if>. 1859. married Aug. 28, 1877. to
Edgar G. Walter, of Pleasant Unity, Pa., by Rev. W. I.. Mc-
Grew. Five children. Infant daughter born April 28. 1878, died
April 28, 1878. Second twin died May 9, 1878. Both interred at
Pleasant Unity. Pa. Homer Trauger Walter, horn Nov. 23,
1879, married Oct. to, 1901 to Emma G. Ulam. Latrobe, Pa.
Clara Walter, born Jan. 15, 1883. Frank Wakefield Walter, born
Mar. 27, 1887. (b) Infant daughter born Feb. 27, 1863, died
Feb. 2~, 1863. Interred at Ridge church, (c) Sarah Melinda
Gress, the other twin, born Feb. 27, 1863. Married Oct. 13, 1880,
to Frank D. Trauger by Rev. B. B. Ferer. 1 rank D. Trauger was
born Nov. 2, 1856, died Feb. II, 1888. Interred at Ridge church.
One child. Lucinda Elizabeth Trauger, born April 1 r, 1885. Sarah
M. Gress married again Dec. 22, 1892 to George B. Immel, of
I.ycippus, Pa., by Rev. C. R. DifYenbachcr. He was born May
9, 1864. (d) Ira Harvey Gress, born Mar. 6, 1871, married Sept.
26, 1895 to Ina M. Brinker (born Dec. 31, 1873), by Rev. C.
R. Diffenbacher. Four children. P. O. Pleasant Unity, Pa. Mary
Cari Gress, born June 30, 1896. Sarah Melinda Gress, born Dec.
25, 1897. William Brinker Gress, born Dec. 5, 1899, died Dec. 3,
1900, Interred at Union Cemetery, Greensburg, Pa. Harry Trau-
ger Gress, born Aug. 2, 1904.
(3) Sarah Gress, daughter of Mary Lauffer, daughter of
Henry Sr.. son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born April 18,
1823. Married Jan. 12, 1843, to John G. Fisher by Rev. N. P.
86 Thk Lauffep History.
Hack* m April 3, 1819, died May 29. 1897. Sarah
1 ress died fan. 9, 1900. They and seven 1 i their children arc in-
terred in Fishtr's Graveyard at the old homestead. Nine children.
(.1 Jacob Gress Fisher, born Oct. 14, [843, died Sept. 30, 1861.
(I.) Malinda Fisher, born Dec. 14. 1844, died Dec. 25, 1854. (c)
Franklin Fisher, Homestead, Pa., born < >ct. 20, 1847. (d) David
Fisher, born Jul) 21, 1849, married Oct. [9, [869, to Mary C.
F,\,-v (born June 14, 1849, by Rev. Henry Cooper, 521 Vmmon
St., Homestead, Pa. Four children. John Franklin Fisher, born
July 23, 1870. married June 22, 1898, to ('Lira Paden, by Rev.
|. M. Carter; lo them was born Marian Leanoir Fisher, Nov. 28,
[899. 525 Amnion St., Homestead, Pa. Sarah Gress Fisher, horn
Oct. 28, [872. Homer Byers Fisher, hum Dec. 11. 1877. died May
25, 1881. Howard Albanus Fisher, horn Mar. I, [883, died July
i t,, 188?. Both are interred in the Homestead Cemetery.
(4) Jacob Gress, son of Mar) Lauffer, daughter of Henry
Si., son oi Christian, the Pioneer, was horn Sept. 2~. 1825. He
was married Mar. 20. 1856, to .Mary ('. Rumbaugh, (born June
1, 1836. died April 6, 1859) by Rev. Nicholas P. Hacke. Married
again Jun< 9, [870 to Maria Zimmerman (horn Dec. 8, 1835, died
Ma) 8. 1879) by Rev. A. J. Heller. Married the third time Mar.
15, [88i to Julia Ann Hess I born July [8, 18401 by Rev. 15. B.
Forer. P. O. Pleasant Unity, Pa. Six children, (a) Mary Cal-
vena Gress, born Jan. 6, 1857. Married Nov. 4. 1 S 7 5 to Jesse K.
! 1 rman, by Rev. David B. Lady. Seven children. Clark L. Poor-
man, of Trauger, Pa., born Jan. [8, [876. Delia A. Poorman,
born Sept. ~~ . 1S77. married Mar. 17. [894, to Charles My<
sburg. Pa. Laura F. Poorman, hern Nov. 13, [880, mar-
ried June 25, [896, i" Robert Currie, of Moundsville, VV. \ a. :
died Nov. 7. 1886, interred at St. Raul Cemetery. Franklin L.
Poorman, born June 8. 1S84. Nellie C. Poorman, born Nov. [6,
1886, married Dec. 19, [902, to Charles Bliss, of Greensburg, Pa.
Jennie C. Poorman, horn Sept. 14. [888, Greensburg, Pa. Wil-
liam N. Poorman, born Sept. 9, [890.
lb 1 Fraklin Levan Gress, born Feb. 16, [859. Married Feb.
23, 1893, to Anna E. Brown, by Rev. A. D. Potts, Greensburg,
Pa. (c) Infant son, Sept. 23, 1871. (d) Infant daughter died
The Lauffer History. 87
April 30, 1873. Aged two days, (e) John R. E. Gress, of Pleasant
Unity, Pa., born Oct. I, 1875. Married to Estella Snednan. (f)
Infant son died May 2, 1879.
(5) Simon Gress, son of Mary Laufer, daughter of Henry
Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Mar. 1, 1828. Mar-
ried to Lavina Blithe. He died in Mar. 1900. Four children are
interred at Ridge Cemetery. Ida Amelia Gress, died Feb. 22,
1862, aged 4 years, 10 months. Samuel A. Gress, died Jan. 19,
1863, aged 3 years, 6 months, 2^ days. Also an infant son and
infant daughter. Other children are : Clark, Carry, John, Rosy,
and Olive Gress. No report.
(6) Mary Ann Gress, born Sept. 25, 1832. Died May 23,
1836. Interred in North Washington Township, Westmoreland
Co., Pa.
(7) Elizabeth Gress, born Aug. 22, 1835, died May 2, 1843.
Interred in Unity Tp., Westmoreland Co., Pa.
(8) Lucinda Sophia Gress, of Greensburg, Pa., born July
9, 1838. Married to Isaac Smail. One daughter, married to
Charles Brown, of Greensburg, Pa.
Susanna LaufTer. daughter of Henry Lauffer, Sr., son of
Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, was married to George Harztell.
Their family consisted of four boys and six girls.
Their old Family Bible is still in existence, but the records
have not been sent to us. We are indebted to Rev. C. M. Hartzell
for a list of names, and to John F. Harshey for records of the
Leah Hartzell branch.
The children were Maria, Elizabeth, Hannah, Jacob, John,
Sarah, George, Susanna, Henry and Leah.
(i) Maria Hartzell and John Chambers: six children. Latta,
Matilda, Preston, Cyrus, Daniel and Porter.
(2) Elizabeth Hartzell and Henry Cease; Three children:
Martin George and Henry.
(3) Hannah Hartzell and John Rumbaugh : Seven children.
George, Susannah, Mary, William, John Isaac and Daniel.
(4) John Hartzell and Anna Maria Errett: Seven children.
3S Tin: Lauffer History.
William H.. George W., John M., Cyrus M.. Samuel, Frank A.
.:• Li/zie.
(5) Sarah Harl ell and Jacob Hairr: Two children. Mary
and Susannah.
(6) Georg< Hartzell and Hannah Barnhart: Nine children.
Mary, Abraham, Hannah. George, Amanda. Emma, Cyrus. Lew-
is and Lydia.
(7) Susannah Hartzell and James Rumbaugh: Seven chil-
dren. Mary. Sarah. Emma, Marian. George, Harry and Cora.
(8) Leah Hartzell and Henry Hershey: Four children. Sa-
rah. Amanda, John and George.
Under Section 4. we can add: Cyrus Markle Hartzell. horn
July 7, [856, son of John Hartzell. the son of Susanna Lauffer,
daughter of Henry Sr., son of Christian the Pioneer. He was
married Oct. 30, 1879, to Elizabeth Mitchell, by Rev. C. R. Dief-
fenbacher and Rev. Stevenson. Four children. Grace Emma
Hartzell, born Dec. 19, 1880. Greensburg, Pa. Mary Jane Hartz-
ell. born March 1. 1882, died Jan. 23. 1892, interred at Seanors.
Anna Elizabeth Hartzell. horn Sept. 22. 1887. Ruth Hartzell.
born Nov. 29, 1892. He was again married to Alice Carey Brindle
by Ke\ C. R. Dieffenbacher Sept. 15. [896. Two children. Lewis
Howard Hartzell, born April 13, [899. Helen Hartzell. horn May
21, 1905.
Under Section | 1 ) we can add: Daniel Chambers, of Pleas-
ant Unity, Pa., son of John Chambers and Mariah Hartzell,
daughter of Susanna Lauffer, daughter of Henry Sr.. son of
Christian, the Pioneer. Daniel Chambers was horn Aug. 13, 1844.
Married Apr. 17. 1S77. to Matilda J. Steele by Rev. A. Fulton
Bo\d. Six children. James Steele Chambers, horn Apr. 7. 1877.
Married June 10, 1902, to Jessie Truxal 1>\ Rev. Stanley Krebs.
John Porter Chambers, born Aug. 4, 1881. Mary Eva Chambers,
born Apr. 5. 18S2. Elmer Hull Chambers, horn Oct. II, 1883.
William Homer Chambers, horn Jan. 7. 1887. Lucinda Margaret
Chambers, born June 30. 1890.
(8) Leah Hartzell. daughter of Susanna Lauffer, the daugh-
ter of Henry Sr.. the son of Christian, the Pioneer. Married
to Henrv Harshev. Four children.
The Lauffer History. 89
(A) Sarah Ann Harshey was born Oct. 24, 185 1, married
Nov. 18, 1869, to John N. Altman, of Harrison City. Pa., by
Rev. N. P. Hacke. Five children, (a) Ida Sybilla Altman, born
Nov. 22, 1870, married Oct. 25, 1892, to Simon Kifcr (born July
8, 1S69) by Rev. A. E. Truxal, P. O. Adamsburg, Pa. Five
children. George H. Kifer. born July 4, 1893. Mary M. Kifer,
born July 14, 1895. Laura X. Kifer, born Oct. 25, 1897. Charles
S. Kifcr. born Dec. 15, 1900. John J. Kifer, born Oct. 18, 1902.
(b) Emma Minerva Altman, born Aug. 21, 1872, married Aug.
25, 1892, to John M. Linhart, by Rev. R. M. Zimmerman. Five
children. P. O. New Alexandria, Pa. John W. Linhart, born June
9, 1893. Edgar L. Linhart, born May 9, 1896. Alice M. Linhart,
born May 3, 1898. Clara L. Linhart, born May 28, 1900. Blanche
E. Linhart, born Mar. 12, 1902. (c) Laura Bell Altman, born
Mar. 4, 1877. Married on May 9, 1899, to Francis E. Faith, by
Rev. G. J. Diener. Two children. Gertrude M. Faith, born Sept.
21, 1900 and John Franklin Faith, born July 13, 1902, died Jan.
29, 1903. P. O. North Braddock, Pa. (d) Homer Walthour Alt-
man, born Mar. 6, 1882, Harrison City, Pa. (e) Clara L. Alt-
man, born Apr. 29, 1887. Harrison City, Pa.
(B) Amanda J. Harshey, daughter of Leah, daughter of
Susannah Lauffer, daughter of Henry Sr., son of Christian, the
Pioneer, was born Oct. 19, 1853. Married May 20, 1879, to Mich-
ael P. Baughman, of Adamsburg, Pa. ,by Rev. M. F. Lauffer.
One child. Eva C. Baughman, born Aug. 13, 1888.
(C) John F. Harshey, son of Leah, daughter of Susannah
Lauffer, daughter of Henry Sr., son of Christian, the Pioneer,
was born Dec. 6, 1854, married Dec. 26, 1876, to Lucinda Alt-
man, (born Sept. 14, 1854), by Rev. Enoch Smith.. Eigbt chil-
dren, (a) Jacob F. Harshey. born Sept. 29, 1877, married Oct.
25, 1899, to Laura M. Long, by Rev. Prugh. Hunker, Pa. R. F.
D. No. 3. One child. Olive M. Harshey, born July 15, 1902. (b)
Mary L. Harshey, born Mar. 17, 1879, married June 25, 1903,
to James C. Fritcbman, of East McKeesport, Pa. One son. (c)
Oscar C. Harshey, born Apr. 27, 1882, died March 16, 1883. (d)
Logan W. Harshey, born Feb. 21, 1884, died Feb. 25. 1885. Both
are interred at Brush Creek, (e) Elsie E. Harshey. born July
19, 1886. (f) Edna L. Harshey, born Oct. 8, 1889. (g) Hazel
<;o Thh Laupphr History.
N. Harshey, born June 28, 1893. (h) Lloyd C. Harshey, bom
March 19. 1898. John F. Harshey is Post Master at Penn Station,
Pa.
(D) George H. Harshey, son of Leah, daughter of Susan-
nah Lauffer, the daughter of Henry Lauffer, Sr., the son of
Christian, the Pioneer, was born Sept. 21, 1856, married May 29,
1902, to Henrietta Ferree, by Rev. H. C. Calhoun, Turtle Creek,
Pa.
Family of John Lauffer, son of Henry I^auffer, Sr., the son
of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born July 1, 1789, died Feb.
\. 1873, age;! 83 years, 7 months and 4 days. Nee Elizabeth An-
drews, his wife, was born December 31, 1795, died October 31,
1877, aged 82 years and io months. They are buried side by side
in Hill's Cemetery, Manordale, Pa. They lived on a farm in
Franklin Township, Westmoreland County. To them were born
the following children :
George Lauffer, born Mar. 31. 1812; married to Catherine
Hill; died July 19, i860:
Hannah Lauffer, born 1814; married to Daniel
Geiper . died 1885 ;
Mary Lauffer, born January 18, 1815 ; married July 10,
1837, to Andrew Cline :
Elizabeth Lauffer, born March 20, 18 18, married September
1834, tojjoseph Hill; residence, Ridgeview, West Vir-
ginia ; died Mar. 1905 ;
Henry Lauffer, born April 28, 1820; married to Susannah
Cline; died December 4, 1891 ; buried in Ridge Church Ceme-
tery ;
Jacob Lauffer, born July 15, 1822; married June 25, 1844,
to M. M. M. Rosenberger ; died May 6. 1896; interred at Apollo;
William Lauffer, born November 6, 1824; married June 20,
1861, to Elizabeth Spcnce, residence Greensburg. Pa.; died
Peter Lauffer. born January 16. 1827; married October 9,
1851, to Anna M. Stockum ; died August 4. [886; buried in Hill's
Cemetery ;
Sarah Lauffer, born January 29, 1829; married December
19, 1850, to Josiah Kemerer ; interred in Hill's Cemetery;
Lydia Lauffer, born July 27, 1831 : married August
Mrs. John Lauffer, Jr. nee Elizabeth Andrews \m> Her
Granddaughter, Ellen Z. Lauffer.
The Lauffer History. 91
1861, to Jacob W. Kemerer; died December 24, 1893; interred
in Hill's Cemetery.
Joseph Lauffer, born Dec. 21, 1833, married Februrary 24,
1859, to Ester Berlin; died April 21, 1894:
Anna LantTer, born April 2, 1838; married April 20, 1858, to
H. Rurnbaugh; also second husband, Chas. Meyers;
i amily of George Lauffer, son of John Lauffer, who was the
son of Henry Lauffer, Sr., the son of Christian Lauffer, the Pi-
oncer, was born Mar. 31, 1812, died July 19, [860, aged 48 years,
4 months and 19 days. Catherine (Hill) Lauffer, his wife, died
August 28, 1898, aged 74 years. To them were born the follow-
ing children :
Loammi Lauffer, born August 3, 1839; address, Irwin, Xeb ;
served three years in Civil War: was there at final wind up; heard
last angry gun fired on April 0, 1865.
Elizabeth Lauffer, born October 31, 1841 ; date of death un-
known ; died in infancy in Pennsylvania;
Mary E. Lauffer, born December 18, 1S42, married to Leh-
bw Geiger (date not known) ; address, Nind, Mo.;
Peter Lauffer, born May 18, 1845; address Sturgis, South
Dakota ;
Anna S. Lauffer, born February 24, 1848; married to P. J.
Downing; address. Bear Grove, Iowa;
Sarah C. Lauffer, born February 1, 1850; married to S. C.
Easterly; address, Carrol, Iowa;
Rebecca M. Lauffer, born January 6, 1852, married to J.
Downing; address, J< fferson, Iowa;
Margaret A. Lauffer, born December 12, 1855 ; married to J.
M. Downing-; address Marble, Colorado;
Ludid J. Lauffer, born November 14, 1858; died October
3, 1861 : interred in Union Church Cemetery, near old home.
Family of Mary E. Lauffer, daughter of George, son of John,
son of Henry, son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born on Dec.
18, 1842; married December 20, 1859, to Lebbeus Geiger, by
Mr. Williams of Missouri. To them were born the following
children :
Peter Geiger, born March 8, 1861; died October 7, 1863;
buried in Clear Creek Cemetery ;
9^ The Lauffer History.
George Geiger, born November 16, 1865; died September 30,
1867; buried in Millersburg, Cedar County, Iowa;
Minnie Mandrilla Geiger, born March 5, 1871 ; married June 5,
1901, to William Edminston ; address, Nind, Mo;
Loamia Geiger, born April 1, 1874; died March 7, 1877;
buried at Millersburg:
Annie Myrtle Geiger, born April 2, 1877; died May 22, 1879;
Terry William Geiger, born May 12, 1879; married June 10,
1899, to L. Belle Gerrard ; residence, Nind, Mo.;
Family of Minnie Mandrilla Geiger, daughter of Mary E.
Lauffer, daughter of George, son of John, son of Henry, son of
Christian Laufifer, born May 5, 1871 ; married, June 5, 1901, to
Williams Hdminston. To them were born the following chil-
dren :
Henry Lebbeus Edminston, born October 13, 1902; died De-
cember 13. [902 :
Pern Ross Hdminston, born October 29, 1903: died Novem-
ber '). 1903.
Family of Terry William Geiger. son of Mary E. Lauffer,
daughter of George, son of John, son of Henry, son of Christian
Laufifer, born May 12, 1879; married to E. Belle Gerrard, June
10. 1899. To them were born the following children:
Lebbeus ( >rville Geiger. born August 19, 1899; residence
Nind, Mo.; died September 25, 1899;
John Delmer Geiger, born May 16, 1901 : residence, Nind,
Mo.:
Zena Ellen Geiger, born June 29. 1003; residence, Nind, Mo.
Family of Anna S. Lauffer, daughter of George Laufifer,
son of John Laufifer, son of Henry Lauffer, son of Christian
Lauffer, born February 24, 1848; married December 20. 1866, to
Preston J. Downing, by Rev. W. X. Brown. To them were born
the following children:
Addie I. Downing, born December 5, 1867; married October
6, 1889, to B. F. Reed; residence, Bear Grove, Iowa;
Lester M. Downing, born April 2, 1869; married July 22,
1897, to ^M Reed residence, Palisades, Colorado;
The Lauffer History. 93
Nora E. Downing, born January 27, 187 1 ; married May 5,
1888, to Frank McCluen ; residence, Guthrie Centre, Iowa; died
Oct. 4, 1891, interred at Bear, Iowa;
Edith K. Downing, born Feb. 2, 1873, married Oct. 12, 1895,
to Ellis Milhollin, Bear Grove, Iowa;
George O. Downing, born Oct. 4, 1875. Residence Bear
Grove, Iowa.
Fred. F. Downing, born February 11, 1877; residence, Bear
Grove, Iowa ;
Mary V. Downing, born July 14, 1879; died September 22,
1895: interred at Bear Grove, Iowa;
Carrie E. Downing, born March 15, 1881 ; residence, Bear
Grove, Iowa ;
Flora F. Downing, born September 15, 1883; married July
24, 1902, to Isaac Guy; residence, Lind, Washington;
Leta R. Downing, born March 30, 1891 ; residence( Bear
Grove, Iowa.
Family of Addie I. Downing, daughter of Anna S. Lauffer,
daughter of George Lauffer, son of John, son of Henry, son of
Christian Lauffer, born December 5, 1867; married October 6,
1889, to B. F. Reed, by Rev. \V. Millhollin. To them was born one
child, Neva D. Reed, April 6, 1891 ; residence Bear Grove, Iowa.
Family of Lester M. Downing, son of Anna S. (Lauffer)
Downing, daughter of George Lauffer, son of John, son of Hen-
ry, son of Christian Lauffer, born April 2, 1869 ; married July
22, 1897, to Nell Reed, by Rev. R. F. Crab. To them were
born the following children :
Don C. Downing, born March 31, 1898; residence,
Palisades, Colorado.
George W. Downing, born September 12, 1901 ; residence,
Palasades, Colorado.
Family of Nora E. Downing, daughter of Anna S. (Lauffer)
Downing, daughter of Geo. Lauffer, son of John, son of Henry,
son of Christian Lauffer, born January 27, 1871 ; married May
5, 1888, to Frank McCluen, by Rev. W. Millhollin. To them was
born one child. Carl O. McCluen, March 29, 1890; residence,
Guthrie Centre. Iowa;
94 Thk Lavffek History
Family of Edith K. Downing, daughter of Anna S. (Lauf-
fer) Downing, daughter of George I^aufTer, son of John, son of
Henry, son of Christian LaufTer, born February 2. 1873: mar-
ried October 12. 1895, to Ellis Millhollin, by Rev. W. Millhollin.
To them were born the following children :
Helen I. Millhollin, horn July 8, 1899; residence, Bear Grove,
Io.;
Maynard F. Millhollin, born April 26, 1002; residence, Bear
Grove, Iowa.
Family of Flora F. Downing, daughter of Anna S. 1 LaufTer)
Downing, daughter of George LaufTer, son of John, son of Hen-
ry, son of Christian LaufTer, horn September 15, 1883; married
July 23. 1902, to Isaac Guy, by Rev. Ramsey.
Family of Sarah C. LaufTer, daughter of George, son of
John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer. born February 1,
1850; married April 14, 1867, to Samuel A. Easterly, by Rev.
John Curts. To them were horn the following children :
David L. Easterly, born May 13, 1868; married May 13,
1901, to Mary E. McXealy ; residence. Sedalia, Mo.;
Charles A. Easterly, born May 10, 1873 ; married January
24, 1904, to Elsa Studeman ; residence. Manning, Iowa.
Family of Charles A. Easterly, son of Sarah C. LaufTer,
daughter of George, son of John, son of Henry, son of Christian
LaufTer, horn May 10, 1873: married January 24, 1904, to Miss
»ie Studeman, by Alex. G. Bennett; residence, Manning, Iowa.
Wedding Bells.
Dr. C. A. Easterly and Miss Elsa Studeman were united
in marriage last Sunday morning at 10 o'clock at the residence
of Mr. and Mrs. ( >. B. Walters, Mrs. Walters being the bride's
sister. Rev. Alexander Bennett, of the M. E. church, spoke the
words which united this young couple for life. The wedding
was a quiet one, only a few relatives and near friends were pres-
ent at the ceremony.
Doctor Easterly came here from Carroll about two years
ago and bought the dental business of Dr. C. M. Boos and
through his courteous treatment and fair dealing he has built up
The Lauffer History. 95
a very good business. He is a young man of good moral cha-
racter and a hustler.
Miss Studeman is a refined young lady, well educated and
has been one of our most popular teachers in Manning and vici-
nity for a number of years and is now completing a term of
school at the Center school just east of town. They have taken
up housekeeping at the hue new cottage of E. Hathaway up near
the school house. The Monitor joins their many friends in ex-
tending congratulations.
family of Rebecca M. Lauffer, daughter of George, son of
John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, born January 6,
1852 ; married December 23, 1879, to J. P. Downing, by J. B.
Gray. To them were born the following children :
Marion Lettie, born October 29, 1881 ;
Velma, born November 16, 1883 ;
Mabel, born July 19, 1889.
Family of Margaret A. Lauffer, daughter of George, son of
John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, born December
12, 1855 ; married September 20, 1872, to J. M. Downing, by J.
M. Gray. To them were born the following children:
Eva Downing, born June 25, 1873 ; married September 20,
1882, to O. N. Millhollin ; residence, Guthrie Center, Iowa ;
James Madison Downing, born December 2, 1877; married
1 90 1, to Maggie Bush; residence, Carbondale, Colo.;
Blanche Downing, born July 23, 1880; married October 25,
1896, to O. F. Tracy; residence Coal basin, Colorado;
Jennie Downing, born February 18, 1883 ; married Decem-
ber 15, 1899, to S. C. Hodgson; residence, Redstone, Colorado;
Millie Downing, born January 17, 1886; residence, Marble,
Colorado ;
Elsie Downing, born November 15, 1889; residence, Marble,
Colorado :
Clarence Downing, born August 15, 1899; residence, Marble,
Colorado.
Family of Eva Downing, daughter of Margaret A. (Lauf-
fer) Downing, daughter of George Lauffer, son of John, son
of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, born June 25, 1873 ; married
96 Thk Lauffer History.
September 20, 1892, to O. N. Millhollin, by Rev. \V. N. Mill-
hollin. To them were born one child. Lorren E. Millhollin,
September 27, 1894. Residence, Guthrie Center, Iowa.
Family of James Madison Downing, son of Margaret A.
(Lauffer) Downing, daughter of George Lauffer. son of John,
son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, born Dec. 2. 1877; mar-
ried Nov. — . 1901. to Maggie Bush, by Rev. Ellis. To them was
born one child, Harry Downing. April 11, 1903 ; residence, Car-
bondale, Colorado.
Family of Blanche Downing, daughter of Margarei A. (Lauf-
fer) Downing, daughter of George Lauffer, son of John, son of
Henry, son of Christian Lauffer. morn July 23, 18X0: married
October 25, 1896, to O. F. Tracy, by Robert Lrabb, J. P. To
them were born the following children: — Addre>- Coal Basin,
Colorado. ;
Leah Viola Tracy, born January 25, 1898;
Clarine Margaret Tracy, born February 12, 1900;
Lola Irene Tracy, born October 31, 1901 ;
Frances Louise Tracy, born Septer. her 18, 1903.
Family of Jennie Downing, daughter oi Margaret A. (Lauf-
fer) Downing, daughter of George Lauffer, son of Jojin, son
of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, bom February
18, 1883 ; married December 15, 1899, to S. C. Hodgson, by E. W.
Fuller, J. P. To them were born the following children :
William James Hodgson, born November 7. 1901 ;
Frank Hodgson, born December 21. 1903; Residence, Red-
stone, Cal.
Family of Hannah Lauffer. daughter of John, son of Henrv,
son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born 1814 (?);
married to Daniel Geiger; died about 1885 ( ?). To them
were born the following children :
Joseph Geiger, born , 1833 ; married to Mary Shank-
lin ; residence, Millersburg, Iowa;
Lebbeus Geiger, born 1&2>?>; married to Miss
Lauffer, daughter of George Lauffer; residence, Millersburg,
Iowa ;
The Lauffer History. 97
Daniel Geiger, born 1836; married to Mary Kuhns;
residence not known ;
Elizabeth Geiger, born September 19, 1839 ; married to Simon
Fisher ; residence, United, Pa. ;
Sarah Geiger, born 1841 ; married to Uriah Stull ;
died 1899 ; interred at Apollo, Pa. ;
Ellen Geiger, born 1852 ( ?) ; married to William
Wilmot, residence, Apollo, Pa. ;
Anna Geiger, born 1847 (?)> married to William Bair;
died ; interred at Apollo, Pa.
Family of Elizabeth Geiger, daughter of Hannah (Lauffer)
Geiger, daughter of George Lauffer, son of John, son of Henry,
son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born September 19, 1839;
married 1862, to Simon Fisher by Rev. N. P. Hacke. To
them were born the following children :
Anna M. Fisher, born March 9, 1863; residence, United, Pa.;
Harry E. Fisher, born August 20,, 1865 > residence, United,
Pa!;
Clark W. Fisher, born June II, 1868; married I897,
to Jane Crock ; residence, Greensburg, Pa. ;
Andrew H. Fisher, born January 14, 1870; married
1893, to Myrtle J. Kline ; residence, United, Pa. ;
Mattie B. Fisher, born February 21, 1872; died March 24,
1873 ; interred at United, Pa. ;
Logan B. Fisher, born January 3, 1874; residence, United,
Pa.;
Charles R. Fisher, born May 24, 1878. Residence, Greens-
burg, Pa.
Nellie C. Fisher, born April 21, 1881 : residence, United, Pa.
Family of Mary Lauffer, daughter of John, son of Henry,
son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born January 18, 1815;
married July 10, 1837, to Andrew Cline, by Squire Laurimer. To
them were born the following children:
Two infants (not named) died ; interred in old Hill
Church yard ;
98 Thk Laupfer History.
Delila Cline, born : married to Joseph Rosenberg-
er ; residence. Greensburg, Pa. ; a widow ;
Sarah Cline, born ; married to Jacob Painter ; died
1870: interred at Apollo, Pa.;
Susan Cline, born ; married to William Bellows;
dence, Holton, Pa.; a widow;
Elizabeth Cline, born ; married to William Hen-
ninger; residence, Zaleski, Ohio;
George Cline, born about December 14. 1846; died ;
interred Rutnam Chapel, Ohio ;
Matilda (."line, born November 15. 1854; married May 17,
1892, to John Ward; address, Allensville, Ohio:
Andrew Cline, born May 6, 1856; single; address, Allens-
ville, Ohio;
William Cline, born ; died aged about
nine eyars.
Family of George Cline, son of Mary (LaufTer) Cline,
daughter of John LaufTer, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauf-
fer, the Pioneer, born December 14, 1846; married 1874;
to Louisa M. Thorn, by Rev. Simmons. To them were born the
following children :
William L. Kline, born April 2. 1875 : died December 25,
187—;
! •• Pearl J. Kline, born June I, 1880; died ;
Emmie Cline, born June I, 1880; (twins) died ; In-
terred at Putman Methodist church; funeral conducted by Rev.
Simmons. Address, R. F. D. N'o. 2, Carpenter. Ohio.
Family of Elizabeth Cline, daughter of Mary (LaufTer)
Cline, <laughter of John LaufTer, son of Henry LaufTer, son of
Christian LaufTer, the Pioneer, born July 29, 1847; married June
13, 1876, to William Henninger, by Richard Doughty. To them
was born one child. Mary M. Henninger, June 30, 1877; mar-
ried November 18, 1902, to John Andrews ; residence, Zaleski,
Ohio. To John Andrews and wife was born one child. Elizabeth
Andrews, April 27, 1903. Address, Zaleski. Ohio.
Mrs. Mary Kline, nee Lauffer, Daughter of John Jr.
great granddaughter of Christian the Pioneer.
The Lauffer History. 99
Family of Matilda Cline, daughter of Mary (Lauffer) Cline,
daughter of John Lauffer, son of Henry Lauffer, son of Christian
Laufler, the Pioneer, born November 15, 1854; married Septem-
ber 16, 1894, to John Ward, by Squire Robt. S. Barnhill. To
them was born one c\iild, Anna L. Cline, May 8, 1875 ; married
Sept. 7, 1894, to Milton Ankrom. Address, Royal, Ohio.
Family of Elizabeth Lauffer, daughter of John Lauffer, son
of Henry Lauffer, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born
March 20, 1S18; died Mar. 13, 1905; interred in Ridge-
way, W. Va. ; married September , 1834, to Joseph
Hill, by Rev. Weigle. To them were born the following chil-
dren : ■ - . ••,.. , -t
Jeremiah Hill, born February II, 1836; address, Holton,
Jackson County, Kansas.
Joseph Hill, born December 21, 1838; married September 5,
1861, to Elizabeth Baum ; residence, Ridgeway West Virginia.
James Hill, born October 9, 1841 ; married to Katie
Cline, residence, Manordale, Pa. ;
Mary A. Hill, born July 16, 1863 ; married March 16, 1890,
to Charley Walters ; residence, Los Angeles, Cal.
Family of Joseph Hill, son of Elizabeth (Lauffer) Hill,
daughter of John Lauffer, son of Henry Lauffer, son. of Chris-
tian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born December 21, 1838; married Sep-
tember 5, 1861, to Elizabeth Baum, by Rev. Frederick Neis. To
them were born the following children :
Lucinda A. Hill, born October 6, 1862 ; died August 30,
1863 ; interred at Salem church, Armstrong County, Pa. ;
Janie H. Hill, born January 11, 1864; married April 2, 1899,
to Perry Pultz ; residence, Ridgeway, West Virginia ;
Sadie C. Hill, born August 2y, 1866; married June 7, 1893,
to George Schlack ; residence, Ridgeway, West Virginia ;
Eliza E. Hill, born November 9, 1868; married December
31, 1888, to S. Richart; residence, Philadelphia, Pa.;
Delia A. Hill, born April 25, 1872; residence, Ridgway,
West Virginia ;
Ida M. Hill, born October 9, 1874 ; married September 30,
1896, to Harry Stewart; residence, West Virginia.
3^9 } 0
ioo Thk Lauffer History
Family of James Hill, son of Elizabeth (Lauffer) Hill,
daughter of John T. suffer, son of Henry Lauffer, Sr., son of
Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born October 9, 1841 ; married
December I, 1804, to Catharine Ann Cline, by Rev. N. P. Hacke.
To them were born the following children :
Sarah Elizabeth Hill, born July 22, 1865: married March 6,
1884, to M. T . Remaley ; residence, Sardis, Westmoreland Co.,
Pa.;
Mary Ellen Hill, born March 14. 1868: married April 23,
1891, to H. Z. Lauffer: residence, Jeannette. Westmoreland Co.,
Pa.;
Annie Catharine Hill, born January 12, 1870; married June
8, 1893, to M. S. Hoy; residence, Young-wood. Westmoreland
County, Pa. ;
Jacob Pierce Hill, born December 20, 1871 : married Novem-
ber 4, 1897, to Annie Cline : re.-idence, Grcensburg, Pa., R. F. D.,
No. 3 ;
Rilla Jane P>rinker Hill, born April 28, 1884 : residence. Ma-
nordale. Westmoreland County, Pa.
Family of Sarah Elizabeth Hill, daughter of James Hill, son
of Elizabeth (Lauffer) Hill, daughter of John Lauffer, son of
Henry Lauffer, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born July
22, 1865; married March 6, 1884, to M. L. Remaley, by Rev. J.
F. Snyder. To them were born the following children : — Address
Sardis, Pa. :
Eva G. Remaley, born October 18. 1884; died November 10,
1902 ; interred in Olive Cemetery ;
Clarence A. Remaley, born March 2^, 1886; residence, Sar-
dis, Pa.
James Pierce Remaley, born February 2^, 1888; residence,
Sardis, Pa. ;
Rilla I. H. Remaley, born February 11, 1890; residence,
Sardis, Pa. ;
Sadie L. Remaley. born February 24, 1893 ; residence, Sar-
dis, Pa. :
Infant child, born October 30, 1894; died February 14, 1895;
interred in Olive Cemetery ;
Mfls. Elizabeth Hill, of West Virginia, daughter of John
Jr., great granddaughter of Christian the pioneer.
The Lauffer History. ioi
Anna Mary Remaley, born March II, 1896; residence, Sar-
dis, Pa. :
Oliver Wendell Remaley, born April 5, 1899 ; residence, Sar-
dis, Pa. ;
Violet Verneta Remaley, born June 25, 1903 ; residence,
Sardis, Pa.
Family of Henry Lauffer, son of John Lauffer, son of Hen-
ry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born April 28, 1820;
married to Susanna Cline ; died December 4, 1891, aged
71 years, 7 months and 6 days. Henry Lauffer was reared on the
home farm in Franklin Township. He received a good educa-
tion in the common schools and engaged in farming, which he
pursued until his death Dec. 4, 1891. Early in life he removed
to Mt. Pleasant township, where he purchased a farm containing
one hundred seventy-five acres of land, which was well adapted
to farming and grazing purposes. During his life there he erect-
ed a large brick dwelling house, built a good barn and made
many other valuable improvements on his farm. In politics he
was a Republican and amember of the Reformed church, in
which he held the office of elder and deacon. Susanna, his wife,
died July 3, 1895. To them were born the following children:
Caroline Lauffer, born February 8, 1841 ;
Israel Lauffer, born November 8, 1843; killed Arjril 2, 1865;
buried among the unknown on the battle field of Petersburg
(Civil War) ;
When killed he was 21 years of age Following is a letter
written home by him a short time before he was killed :
Camp of the 211th Reg't., P. V.,
Near Hancock Station, Va.
March the 26th, A. D. 1865.
Dear Parents :
Brothers and sisters, I this Sabbath morning once more take
the pleasure of writing you a few lines to inform you that I am
still spared and have good health. I will now inform you of a
battle which was fought yesterday, from half past eight o'clock
until half past ten o'clock, in the forenoon. The rebels came on
io2 Thr Lauffer History.
our pickets earl) in the morning and told them that they were
coming into our lines. The) soon had the pickets taken without
firing a shot. They then rushed on two of our forts and took them
and some prisoners. We left our camp at daylight and had al>out
five miles to march. We run about one-half of the way, as the
rebels were fasl making their way for the railroad. Our regiment
was drawn in line ami the 205th on our left and the 207th on our
right This made our brigade. When we were ordered on we
went about half way to the forts which had been taken and then
fixed our bayonets, and all gave a yell, and the "Jonnies" broke
from the forts like sheep, and the stars and stripes were once
more placed on the fort. The name of this fort is Fort Steadman.
This is the fort that our regiment took. The name of the other I
don't know. These forts and the rebel fort are only about 200
yards apart. Our batteries poured the grape into the forts while
the rebels were in them, which soon made them scatter. The
shells were flying fast and the minnie balls whizzed past our heads,
but the loss in our regiment was very small. I got through with-
out a scratch, and Andrew Wineman and Josiah Maxwell the
same. The rebel l"~s in killed, wounded and prisoners is about
3,000 — most prisoners. As soon as we got to the fort about
1,000 prisoners came in with their Hag. They told us to go on
that we were all right. They said they had been marched about
[2 miles the night before. I got a piece of their corn bread. It
is corn meal mixed with water and only dried. It was a hard
sight to see when we got in the fort. Some had their legs torn
oft by shells, some shot in th<> breast, others through the head and
almost every place a person can think of. I only saw 5 or 6 of
our men inside the fort that were killed. They didn't get any
of our guns, We .stayed in the fort until about half past four
o'clock, when we went back to camp. This morning I feel all
right except my legs are a little tired. I will close, hoping to
hear from you soon. I will put a button in this letter, which I
got on a dead relx-1 at the fort. Israel Lauffer.
Sarah Lauffer, born June 5. [846;
Susan Ellen Lauffer, born September 16, 1850; married
December 18, 1S71). to A. J. Schaff : also married, August 14,
The Lavffkr History. 103
1890, to George S. Trice, by William F. Olaham : residence,
Greensburg, Pa.
Lydia Lauffer, born July 3, 1852 :
Henry Lauffer, born August 20, 1855 ;
William Lauffer. born July 30, 1856 ;
Mary Elizabeth Lauffer, born July 9. i860: died January 15,
1863;
Malinda Lauffer, born January 4. 1863.
Family of Sarah Lauffer, daughter of Henry, son of John,
son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer. the Pioneer, born June
5, 1846; married December 24, 1868. by Rev. N. P. Hacke. to
Simon Frank Truxal. Born Mar. 31. 1842. To them were born
the following children: — Address, Greensburg. Pa.. R. F. D. 7;
Susanna Rebecca Truxal, born December 15, 1869; married
March 22, 1896. to John Sutton, to whom were born two chil-
dren, Rebecca, born 11 Apr., 1896, and Riley Franklin Sutton,
born 28 Oct., 1900, and William McCain. 13 May, 1904; resi-
dence. Pleasant Unity, Pa.:
Henry Luamma Truxal, born August 23. 1872 : died Decem-
ber 24, 1872 :
Mary Etta Truxal, born April 10, 1874; married April 10,
1899. to Newton Weaver, to whom was born, on June 12, 1903,
one child, John Franklin Weaver; residence. Mutual, Pa.;
William Lauffer Truxal. born August 24. 187'
Arminda Codilla Truxal, born May 5. 1880:
Lydia Malinda Truxal, born Febru. . [887.
Family of Susan E. Lauffer, daughter of Henry, son of John,
son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer. the Pioneer, born Septem-
ber 16, 1850; married December iS. [879, to A. J. Schaff, by Rev.
B. B. Ferree. Her husband, A. J. Schaff, was killed June 14,
1884, at the age of 30 years and 29 days. He was interred in
old German cemetery and later on removed to Hillview Cemetery.
INSTANTLY KILLED.
A. J. Shaft is Struck by the Binders of a Railroad Bridge and
Killed — The Funeral.
A very sad accident happened to a resident of this place on
104 The Lauffer History.
Saturday, in which A. J. Shaft, a hrakeman on the local freight
of which Theo. Butterfield, of this place, is connected, is the vic-
tim. Mr. Shaft was standing on one of the cars with his face
turned toward the rear of the cars and had evidently forgotten
of the near approach to his death trap, the Paintersville bridge.
He was -truck on the back of the head by one of the binders of
the bridge and knocked forward on his face on top of the car. He
survived for a few minutes, but died before reaching the next
station. His head was cut very little, but his neck was broken.
His remains were brought to his home in Rohrertown on Satur-
day afternoon and interred in the German cemetery on Sunday
at 3 p. m. He was a member of the St. Clair Lodge, No. 53, A. O.
U. W., and of the Knights of Pythias. — Grccnsburg Press, lung
16. 1884.
To Susan E. Schaff and husband were born the following
children :
Mahnda E. SchafT, born August 4, 1881 ; residence, Greens-
burg, Pa. ;
Henry H. Schaff, born October 15, 1883, residence, Greens-
burg, Pa.;
Susan E. Shaff, widow of A. J. Shaff, was married on Aug.
14, 1890, to George S. Trice, by Rev. VV. F. Olaham. To them
was born one child,
William P. D. Trice, born March 8, 1891 ; residence, Greens-
bur£. la.
Family of Lydia Lauffer, daughter of Henry, son of John,
son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born July 3,
1852; married October 3, 1878, to Simon Trice, born Dec. 3,
1856, by Rev. Enoch Smith, Lutheran Minister of Greensburg,
Pa. To them were born the following children:
Harrv S. B. Trice, born April 20, 1879 ; address, United,
Pa.;
Adam Y. Trice, born August 28, 1881 ; married ; address,
United, Pa.;
Susanna E. G. Trice, born November 5, 1884 ; died Septem-
ber 26, 1886;
l-S
I
/
/
c - w
E - b S
- b/ _
§ .£ £ a
— — r i.
51 — ~, "X
si -'« £ —
C S —
- — i.
~
v. » • —
-- ~z _i
,~~.
«
X
.— ~ *—
1 c
l-
>* * ~
— ■
jj
_C
t-' :. —
-
_z:
_
c a .
~
>
V - *
/
*
^
>-•
: f :
r
"o
r.
o r £■
7. T •»-
y.
i, —
5
-
■*J
e
~ — "
&-
sc
— *— "
C
^f
•^
k * .22
'-
£3
—
-r -— -^
—
Js,
V
^ ^-
C
y
1j
c
*t 36 C
7 '= 1
£Li
s
2i
X
O 'c
.33
.
33
-<j
'"",
>>
5
1
— ■
*T
The Lauffer History. 105
John S. Trie?, born June 10, 1888, United, Pa.
Simon F. Trice, born October 27, 1890, United, Pa.;
Charles W. Trice, born August 4, 1893, United, Pa. ;
Edna Malinda Trice, born October 30, 1895.
Family of Henry Lauffer, son of Henry, son of John, son
of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born July 8,
1854; married October 15, 1882, to Marry Ella Kemp, by Rev.
B. B. Ferree, of Pleasant Unity, Pa. To them were born the
following children :
John M. Lauffer, born October 14, 1883; died August 19,
1884; interred in Old German Cemetery; United, Pa.;
Anna May Lauffer, born February 6, 1889; United, Pa.;
Harvey Franklin Lauffer, born Nov. 28, 1891 ; United, Pa.;
Alice Bethelda Lauffer, born August 1, 1897; United, Pa.;
William Fisher Lauffer, born Feb. 21, 1902; United, Pa.;
Family of William Lauffer, son of Henry, son of John, son
of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born July 30,
1856: married January 9, 1878, to Mary M. Roadman, by Rev.
H. S. Harkey. To them were born the following children:
Cora Amanda Lauffer, born August 18, 1882; married Sep-
tember 15, 1903, to H. H. McDowell; (born Mar. 13, 1874);
residence, Masontown, ; Pa. ; by Rev. Stanley L. Krebs,
to whom a daughter was born, Eva May, June 14, 1905. Died
July 31, 1905; interred in Hillview cemetery.
John Henry Lauffer, born April 14, 1888 ; died August 21,
1888: interred in Hillview Cemetery;
Sarah Susan Lauffer, born April 14, 1888; Died an infant.
Cloy Alphcus, born April 4, 1894;
Carl Adam Lauffer, born March 26, 1903; died March 2"j,
19133: interred in Hillview Cemetery.
Family of Cora A. Lauffer, daughter of William Lauffer,
son of Henry, son of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauf-
fer, the Pioneer, born August 18, 1882; married September 15,
1903, tn H. H. McDowell, by Rev. Stanley L. Krebs.
Family of Malinda Lauffer, daughter of Henry Lauffer, son
of John Lauffer, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the
Pioneer, born January 15, 1863 ; married November 1, 1883, to
106 The Lauffer Histoxy.
John L. Stauffer, by Rev. B. B. Ferree. To them were born the
follow ing chiblrcn :
Alice I. Stouffer, born October 8, 1884 : address, Southwest,
Pa.;
Henry L. Stouffer, born December 7. 1887; < 1 i t < 1 May 10. 1888;
interred in St. John's Cemetery, near Mt. Pleasant, I'a. ;
Martha S. Stouffer. born Jui>e 5. 1891 ; residence, South-
west;
Miriam G. Stouffer, born July 13, 1898; died February 18,
1899; interred by the side of Henry J... in St. John's Cemetery,
near Mt. Pleasant. Ta. ;
Family of Jacob I^auffer, son of John, son of Henry, son
of Christian Lauffer. the Pioneer, born July 15, 1821 ; married
June 25, 1844, to Mary Martha Magdaliue Rosenberger ; died
May <). 1896, aged y> years. To them were born the following
children :
Elizabeth Lauffer. born May 22, 1845 ; married to John Ash-
h?.ugh ; also married a second time to Daniel Spencer ; residence,
Ford Cit\. Armstrong County, Pa.;
John Lauffer, born May 22, 1845 ; date of death unknown ;
Jesia Lauffer. born January 4, 1849: married November 25,
1900, to Mary Ford : residence. Apollo. Pa. ;
Susan Lauffer, born March 28. 1851 ; married to Rudolph
Shumberger; also to John Lenning, and a third time to Christ
Smeltzer, residence. Vandergrift, I'a.;
Jacob Lauffer, born May 5, 1854 : residence, Apollo, Pa. :
James Lauffer, born May 5, 1854; date oi death unknown;
Henry Lauffer, born September 3. 1859; married June 28,
1901, to Jennie Coup, residence, Vandergrift, Pa.;
Nancy Jane Lauffer, born April 4, 186] : residence, Vander-
grift, Pa. ;
Annie Mary 1 auffer, born December 1, 1863; married Octo-
ber 20, 1888. to Harve Cunningham ; residence, Apollo, Pa.
Family of Elizabeth Lauffer, daughter of Jacob Lauffer, son
of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer,
The Lauffer History. 107
born May 22, 1845: married to Daniel Spencer; residence, Ford
City, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania. Two children were born
to them, both of whom are dead.
Family of Jesia Lauffer, son of Jacob Lauffer, son of John,
son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born January
4, 1849; married November 25, 1900, to Mary Ford; Address:
Apollo, Pa.
Family of Susan Lauffer, daughter of Jacob Lauffer, son of
John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born
March 28 1851. Susan Lauffer was married three times, to
wit : to Rudolf Slumberger, John Lenning, and Christ Smeltzer.
To her first husband, Rudolf Slumberger, one child was born:
Lillie M. Slumberger, born October 19, 1875 ; died October
16, 1883.
To her second husband, John Lenning, were born the follow-
ing children :
Elsie Jcnetta Lenning, born August 12, 1877; married to
Stewart Lelles : address, Box 16, Vandergrift Heights, Pa.;
Edward Lenning, born September 21, 1879;
Albert Sampson Henry Lenning, born October 17, 1882 ;
Uzzie May Lenning, born June 5, 1885 ;
Family of Henry Lauffer, son of Jacob Lauffer, son of John,
son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born Septem-
ber 3, 1859; married June 28, 1901, to Jennie Coup. To them
was born one child, Roy Coup Lauffer, born April 1, 1903.
Elizabeth Lauffer, nee Spence, of Greensburg, Pa., was born
Dec. 15th, 1839, in Indiana, Pa. ; was married to William Laufter,
June 20th, 1 86 1 ; and died Sept. 8th 1905. Aged 64 years, 8 mo.,
22t days.
Lived opposite Apollo until 1889 when she and her husband
moved to near Harrison City, Pa., and after her husbands death
moved to Greensburg, Pa., where she spent the last years of her
life.
She was a consistent member of the Denmark-Manor Re-
formed Church and a loving mother.
ioS The Lauffer V.
In . Reme \cc.
\\ ■ - thee from our home, d
We miss thee from thy pla<
. shadow o'er our life is cast,
We miss the sunshine ^i thy face,
We miss thy kind and willing hand,
Thy fond and earnest care,
Our home is dark without thee —
We miss thee everywhere.
BRIEF SKETCH OF WILLIAM LAUFFFR.
William Lauffer was horn in Mount Pleasant Township,
Westmoreland County, Pa., Nov. 6th, 1824. A few years later
his father and mother moved to Manordale, Franklin Township,
Westmoreland County, Pa., where he spent the early years of
his life in the persuit of farming and working on a saw-mill.
Early in life he was baptized by Dr. X. P. Hacke, and when
he had arrived at the age of thirteen years, he became a full
Communicant member of Emanuel German Reformed Church.
In the Spring of 1852 he purchased a farm of George Mc-
Creary, opposite the town of Warren, now Apollo, in Allegheny
Township, Westmoreland County, Pa., and moved to it in the
Spring of 1853, where lie continued the persuit of farming, and
in the Spring of 1889 he moved to the David Yount farm near
the scene of his early boyhood days in Perm Township, near
Harrison City, Pa., where he passed the remainder of his days.
He was married to Elizabeth Spence, of Apollo, Pa., June
20th, 1861, by Rev. Robert McMillan.
il( was an industrious, prosperous, honest, upright, christian
father, a good citizen and a consistant member of the German Re-
formed Church and in his declining years attended the Denmark-
Manor Reformul Church, where he lies buried alongside the
church in Woodlawn Cemetery.
In Politics lie was a stalwart Republican; but in local elec-
tions the best man always received his vote.
He was modest in his manner, temperate in his habits, and
Thf Lauffer History. 109
had a host of friends. He had established an undying reputa-
tion for honesty and was held out as a worthy example.
His neighbors, who knew him best, were accustomed to say
to each other, "You should be as honest as Billy Lauffer,*' as he
was familiarly called.
In loving remembrance of William Lauffer, who died Dec.
29th, 1898, aged 74 years, I month and 23 days.
"One less at home — the charmed circle broken ;
A dear face missed day by day from its usual place.
But cleansed, saved, perfected by grace.
One more in Heaven ; one less on earth :
Its pain, its sorrow, and its toil to share.
One less the pilgrim's daily cross to bear ;
One more the Crown of the blessed to wear,
At home in Heaven.''
Family of Annie Mary Lauffer, daughter of Jacob Lauffer,
son of John Jr., son of Henry St., son of Christian Lauffer, the
Pioneer, born December 1, 1863; married October 20, 1888, to
Harve Cunningham. To them were born the following children :
Bertha Bell Cunningham, born July 1, 1889; address, Apol-
lo, Pa. ;
Mabel Irene Cunningham, born May 2^, 1891 ; address, Apol-
lo, Pa. ;
Adda Virginia Cunningham, born January 7, 1894; died Au-
gust 11, 1894 ;
Beatrice Navad Cunningham, born April 25, 1896; address,
Apollo, Pa. ;
Owel McBryer Cunningham, born January 11, 1899; ad-
dress, Apollo, Pa. ;
William Harvey Cunningham, born January 2j, 1903 ; ad-
dress. Apollo. Pa.
Family of Elsie Jeannette Lauffer, daughter of Jacob Lauffer,
son of John, Jr., son of Henry, Sr., son of Christian Lauffer, the
Pioneer, born August 12, 1877; married to Stewart Lelies ; resi-
dence, Vandergrift Heights, Pa. (Box 16). To them were born
the following children :
no Thk Lauffer History.
Lillie Annctu Lelles, born August 13, [898; died Nov. 10,
1903.
Bessie \ iola Lelles, born December 3, 1900:
Gertrude Lucclla Lelles, born July 15, 1903.
Family oi William Lauffer. son of John, son of Henry, son
of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, horn November 6, 1824; mar-
ried June 20, 1861, by Rev. Robert McNellon, to Elizabeth Spencc,
who was born December 15. 1839; residence, Greensburg, Pa.
To them were horn the following children:
Anna Mary Lauffer, horn February 21, 18^3; died October
5, 1805; interred at Denmark Manor;
Llla /ilia Lauffer, born December 24. 1864; married Nov.
10, 1887, to Edward Spencer; died July 2, 1897; interred at Den-
mark Manor; residence, Export, Pa.;
Infant son, born October 3, 1866; died February 19, 1867;
interred at Denmark Manor ;
William Grant Lauffer, born Dec. 29. 1867; died Nov. 3,
1870:
Ida Jane Lauffer, born September 19. 1870; married to J.
Merch Kistler, residence, Harrison City, Pa.;
James C. Lauffer, Attorney at Law, of Greensburg', Pa.,
was born Nov. 10th, 1873, in a log" house in Allegheny Town-
ship. Westmoreland County, Pa., opj>osite Apollo, where the town
of Vandergrift Heights now stands.
It was here that he spent the early years of his life helping
his father on the farm and attending Evan's school in the winter,
until in the Spring of 1889 he moved to Penn township, near
Harrison City, Pa., where he continued helping his father on the
farm in the summer and att< nding Holtzers school in the winter.
In January 1891 he entered the preparatory department of
the Greensburg Seminar}. Entered Heidelberg Uuniversity at
TifHn, Ohio, in the Fall of 1892; graduated from the Ohio Nor-
mal University in the Summer of 1897.
Be^an the study of law in the fall of 1897 under the firm
of Spiegel & McGeary, of Greensburg, Pa.: was admitted to the
Westmoreland County Par on the third day of November 1900,
and took up the practice of law in the McCauslin Building, West
James C, Lauffeb, the Greeneburg Lawyer.
The Lauffer History. i i i
Otterman street, Greensburg, Pa., with Charles K. McCreary.
He was married to Amanda Carpenter Sherrick, of Mount
Pleasant, Pa., July 27th, 1904, and this union was blessed by
one son, James Sherrick Lauffer.
He was instrumental in organizing the Merchants Trust
Company, of Greensburg, with a capital of $200,000.00, of which
he is a director, and is Secretary of the Greensburg Realty Co.
Lilly Spence Lauffer, born March 18, 1877; married De-
cember 24, 1902, to Dr. Frank L. Swallow, by Rev. Evans ; resi-
dence, Greensburg, Pa.
Family of Ida J. Lauffer, daughter of William Lauffer, son
of John, son of Henry, son of Qiristian Lauffer, the Pioneer,
born September 19, 1870; married March 21, 1894, to J. M. Kist-
ler, who was born May 25, 1866 residence Harrison City, Pa.,
by Rev. J. M. Evans. To them were born the following chil-
dren :
Infant twin sons, born December 20, 1895; died on Decem-
ber 20, 1895 : the other December 21, 1895 ;
Infant daughter, born September 11, 1898; died Septem-
ber 11, 1 898 ;
All interred at Denmark Manor, Wood Lawn Cemetery.
Family of Lilly S. Lauffer, daughter of William Lauffer,
son of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer,
born March 18, 1877; married December 24, 1902, to Dr. Frank
L. Swallow, by Rev. J. M. Evans. Dr. Swallow, who was born
on June 30, 1876, died November 17, 1903. To them was born
one child, Frank Lauffer Swallow, September 27, 1903.
DR. SWALLOW'S DEATH.
The death of Dr. Frank Lewis Swallow has cast a gloom
over Manor, as it takes away a kind father, a faithful and devoted
husband and a most generous and affable citizen. Let those who
knew him best testify to his sterling worth and his memory will
be kept green for many years.
Dr. Swallow was born in Lambertville, N. J., on the 30th
day of June, 1876. His father, Anderson Swallow, is a prominent
architect and builder of that place. His mother died ten vears
ri2 Thi: Lauffer History.
ago. His brothers, Harry, of Lambertville, and Charles, of
Trenton, arc prominent citizen-. The deceased was the. young-
-• of the family.
The deceased entered the public schools of his native town
and made the remarkable record of graduating from the High
School at the age of 13 years. It is said of him that he was the
only pupil that ever graduated there in knee pints. He entered
the University of Pennsylvania and graduated from that celebrat-
ed intstitution in 1900, at the remarkable age of 24 years. He
was appointed by the P. R. R. for the Pitcairn division, as ex-
amining surgeon and held this position at the time of his death.
He was a skilled musician. He played in Sousa's band, be-
longed to some of Philadelphia's fine>t orchestras and won di-
stinction in this line. He was married to Miss Lillie Spencer
Lauffer. of Greensburg, Pa., in 1902, and this marriage was
blessed bv rhe birth of a bright bov babv, now only seven weeks
old. To his wife and baby boy he was most devotedly attached.
The death chamber is a singularly sa^l one and when the writer,
an old acquaintance of the family, visited it this morning, he
found the bride of a year ago prostrate in grief and the gray hair-
edgrandmother fondling her little grandson, whose young and
gifted father was coffined for the tomb.
The cause of death was evidently overstudy. A worshipper
at the shrine, he gave his Deity too much devotion and his death
was due to physical collapse. His death is another instance,
where genius and energy are wedded in the body and mind of a
single individual. He was a most genial and companionable man,
a devoted husband and father, and the sympathy of all goes out
unstinting]}- to the bereaved in this hour of dire affliction. —
Greetuburg Tribune.
Family of Peter I^aufTer, son of John, son of Henry, Sr.,
son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born January 16, 1827;
married October 9. 1851, to Anna M. Stockum. by Rev. Wil-
liam Wind. His wife, Anna Margaret, was born March 8, 1832,
in Reinhorn, State of Hesse Daemstadt. Germany, and died May
16, 1874, interred in Denmark Manor,, later removed to Hill's
Cemetery. Peter Lauffer, great grandson of Christian, the
The generous hearted Peter Lauffer, son of John, great grand son of
Christian, the Pioneer.
Mrs. Sarah Lauffer nee Stockum, the
2nd wife of Peter, one who is taking an
interesting part in reunion of 1W3.
The Lauffer History. 113
Pioneer, was a successful farmer, a prominent member of the
Reformed church in which he held the offices of elder and deac-
on for many years. He was a man of commendable characterist-
ics, being known among his neighbors as Honest Peter.. In pol-
itics he was a staunch Republican, but never aspired to public
office.
Early in life he purchased a farm in Penn township, West-
moreland County, Pa. The farm contained about 138 acres, and
was in rather poor state of cultivation. He was frequently told
by his neighbors and friends, that he could not make a living on
such poor land. Peter, however, had the courage and went to work
with a will and soon brought into evidence his ability as a busi-
ness man and a farmer.
In the year 1873 he erected a large brick house on the
farm and surrounded it with an evergreen fence, which, together
with many other improvements, is still standing as a witness to
his untiring efforts, though now being owned by Wm. Wagner.
For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to him-
self. For whether we live , we live unto the Lord ; and whether we
die, we die unto the Lord ; whether we live or die therefore we
are the Lords. For to this end Christ both died and rose and
revived — lived again — that he might be Lord both of the dead and
living. Romans 14:7, 8, 9.
CHRISTIANS THE LORD'S POSSESSION.
Extracts from a sermon preached at the funeral of Peter
Laufi'er, who died August 4. 1886, interment in Emanuel Ceme-
tery, August 6, 1886.
The tenderest and warmest recollection of our lives cluster
around our childhood's home. We may have gone out from it,
but we never, never can forget the old home, where we spent our
childhood days. So the spirit too has a childhood's home, where
it was born unto God, became God's property, and reared on the
breast of its spiritual mother — the church. A power undefinable
that binds the faithful Christian — bound our departed brother to
the place, where he became God's property, and where he learned
ii4 Thf Lauffep History.
to km »v< Christ. For some years he transferred his
church membership to a neighboring: congregation, but to this
Zion of Gocl — this childhood home of his soul and spirit, around
which memories clustered, which will live forever, his eyes and
his heart ever turned. The poet expresses the sentiments and
feelings <f our beloved brother for this house of God and all
us surroundings in that beautiful hymn.
1 love thy kingdom Lord,
The house of thine abo U .
The church our blest Redeemer saved
With his own precious blood.
1 f e'er my heart forget,
Her welfare or her woe,
Let tvery joy this heart forsake
And every grief o'erflow.
For her my tears shall fall,
For her my prayers ascend.
To her my cares and toils be given,
Till toils and cares shall end.
\\ ith these sentiments animating and ruling his heart,
he labi red early and late, nobly and heroically to make this spirit-
:a. thi God's acre, where peacefully his remains
will til the resurrection, now beautiful and lovely. The
!'. ' • veness and loveliness of this sacred spot is due
to i • • I bi ther, and others, who like him. labored, toiled,
pra ive largely of their means, time and substance, to
lit ■ this hill of God, and make this temple — the
plac< d's name is recorded and when' his honor dwell-
eth glorious. Xo one gave more towards the rebuilding of this
tei pie. No one gave more willingly or cheerfully. And none
wen more faithful in their attendance on the regular preaching
of the word, the .nces of the church, and the congregational
meetings, having for their object the advancement of God's king-
dom in our mid^:.
-
.
*m
~_ :.
T —
The Lauffer History. 115
Our departed brother began life with scarcely a dollar. Indus-
trious, full of zeal and energy, God blessed and prospered him.
He accumulated a comfortable home and a goodly inheritance of
honest toil, hard labor, and the sweat of his brow. Whilst he
was diligent in business he was at the same time fervent in spirit
serving the Lord. He always gave liberally and cheerfully unto
the benevolent objects of the church. God loves the cheer-
ful giver. In this regard, as well as a faithful member and deac-
on ofthis congregation, we will all miss him. As a good man
and neighbor the community will miss him, but above all as a
tender husband and a kind and loving father will be missed by the
bereaved household and family. Better, however, ten thousand
times better that we are missed, even sadly missed in the church,
congregation community and family circle than otherwise. In
this there is the evidence and the proof that we are filling, in
some measure at least the sphere and place into which God put us.
Speaking to me some time ago of the disease which was terminat-
ing his earthly life, he remarked that he was dying differently
from what he thought he would. He said, he expected to die
suddenly. His departure was in accorckmdce with the teaching
andtruth of the text. We die according to the way, manner and
circumstances, as God directs and wills. "We die unto the
Lord."
But how did our departed friend and brother die? As he
lived. ''Unto the Lord." In the providence of God. I was permit-
ted to be at his side, commend his soul into the hands of our kind
heavenly Father, and close his eyes in death. He was perfectly
conscious to the last moment, and departed as calmly and peace-
fully, as the child falling asleep on its mothers bosom. So gently
did he fall asleep in Jesus, that it could scarcely be seen just
when the earthly life terminated and the heavenly was ushered
in.
"How blest the righteous when he dies
When sinks a weary soul to rest
How mildly beam the closing eyes,
How gently heaves the expiring breast."
n6 The Lauffer History,
a d) ing bed
.\ny pillows arc.
\\ n his breast I Kan my head
And breathe my life out sweetly there."
forting also arc the words of the text to the be-
•■ ivcd household, family, relatives and friends. You are God's
perty, God's possession. He has bought you each one with
a price not with corruptible things, as silver and gold, but with
the precious blood of Christ, as a lamb, without blemish and with-
out spot. We belong unto him in soul and body, in life and death.
He is your shepherd. He will provide for and take care of
you. and you shall not want. The same God and Father, that led,
oreserved .defended and provided for hi- Israel of old will care
for you. The same Savior that comforted a Mar) and a Martha
will comfort you. He says, '"Let not your heart be troubled, nei-
ther let it be afraid etc." "I will not leave you comfortless."
Trust Christ. Bring your sorrows., tears and broken hearts to
him. "Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I
will give you rest."
There are solemn lessons for us to be learned as a congre-
: 'ion and a community. Do we realize that we are Gods pro-
perty, that he has bought us with the infinitely availing blood of
own dear son? hi virtue of this precious purchase price we
bel ; unto the world nor the evil one, but unto Christ. If
w< realize that we arc God's property we will have
1 and spirit of Him, who has fully satisfied
for . -ins. and made us heirs of Cod and joint
1- - with Himself. We will live unto God in a pecu-
sense. We will glorify God with our bodies and
s] ritJ which are his. If we are not Christ's, and not living un-
to the Lord, win se fault is it? Can we come before God now,
an:' in the greatlast day and tell him that He never bought
us? J1- there a soul here to-day, who is making null and void
this effecacious purchase by neglecting and refusing to live
unto him?
The Lauffer History. 117
"Lord, it belongs not to my care
\V hetlier I die or live :
To love and serve Thee is my share,
And this Thy grace must give."
"If life be long, I will be glad
That I may long obey,
If short, yet why should I be sad
To soar to endless day?"
To them were born the following children :
Israel B. Lauffer, born September 12, 1852; married April
10, 1879. to Rebecca C. Waugaman ;
Infant daughter died Jan. 16, 1854, interred at Denmark
Manor; later removed to Hill's Cemetery.
Jacob W Lauffer, born December 29. 1855 ; married De-
cember 28, 1882, to Mary E. Smith;
Sarah E. Lauffer, born April 5, 1859: married June 2j, 1878,
to R. H. Kemerer, residence, South Greensburg, Pa. ;
Elizabeth J. Lauffer, born January 2, [864; married Jan. 18
1883, to Wm. H. Kemerer ;
John P. Lauffer, born April 18, 1868; married Jan. 28, 1892,
to Annie C. Wolfe ;
Henry Z. Lauffer, born January 1, 1868; married April 23,
1891 to Mary E. Hill, Jeannette, Pa., R. F. D. No. 1 ;
Joseph A. Lauffer, born May 10, 1870; married January 1,
1904, tc Miss E.G. Bridenthal : address, Greensburg, Pa., 70
West 2nd street ; One child, Grace Mildred, born Feb. 9, 1905.
The fifth son of the generous hearted Peter Lauffer was
reared on the home farm near Harrison City, Pa. He received a
good education, and at the age of 21 he engaged in the grocery
business in Greensburg, Pa., which he has pursued ever since.
He is a staunch Republican and a member of the First Reformed
Church of Greensburg, Pa., taking an active part in Sunday
school and general church work. Having served as treasurer of
their C E. Society and Sunday school for 13 years. For nearly
4 years he has not been absent from Sabbadi school a single Sab-
1 18 Thb Lauffer History
bath, lit served a term in the N. G. P., 10th regiment, Co. I., of
- ensburg, i ..
XriTia M Lauffer, bom September 25, 1871 ; married Sep-
• ^<j. 1892, to Calvin P. Ashbaugh ; address, Irwin, Pa., R.
F. D. No. 2.
Infant daughter died may 11. 1874 interred at Denmark
Manor, later r< d to Hills, cemetery.
Family of Israel B. Lauffer, son of Peter Lauffer, son of
John, son of Henry, sun of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born
September 12. 1852; married April 10, 1879, to Rebecca C. Waug-
aman, by Rev. William Seiner. Rebecca C, his wife, was born
October 22, 1859. To them were born the following children:
Anna S. Lauffer, born March 23. 1880: married Jan. 12,
5. to Lewis E. Fry, by Rev. A. L. Ybut, Greensburg, Pa., R.
F. D. No. 4 ;
Edna F. Lauffer. born February 19, 1885 ; address, Greens-
burg. Pa. :
Carl D. Lauffer, born April 19, 1895; address, Greensburg,
Pa.;
Family of Jacob W. Lauffer. son of Peter Lauffer. son of
John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born
December 20. 1855 ; married December 28. 1882. to Mary E.
ith, by Rev. I. F. Snyder. To them were born the following
■ n :
Myrle E. Lauffer, born November 16, 188 sidence, Ni-
hil, Pa':
L< tti< 1. Lauffer. born March S. 1886; residence, Nihil, Pa.;
Nina E. Lauffer, born August 31, [888; residence, Nihil,
Pa. :
Frank R. Lauffer. born March 9, 189] : residence, Nihil, Pa. :
ih.:r'^ M. Lauffer, born March 25, 1804 ; died April 6.
1902: interred in Hill's Cemetery:
Dovl R. Lauffer, born March 27. 1897; residence, Nihil,
Pa.:
Flora C. Lauffer. born November 21, 1899; residence. Nihil,
Pa.:
Joseph A. Laitffer,
Chairman of Publication Committee, the fifth son of the
jieneroua hearted Peter Lauffer, a second great grand son of
Christian the pioneer.
Grace Mildred, daughter of Mr. and Mr?. Joseph A. Lauffer.
Mrs. Joseph A. Lauffee, nee Bridenthal.
The Lauffer History. 119
John M. Lauffer, born September 21, 1902; residence, Nihil,
Pa.;
Infant, born December 19, 1905; residence. Nihil, Pa.
Family of Sarah E. Lauffer, daughter of Peter Lauffer, son
of John, son of Henry, son of Qiristian Lauffer, the Pioneer,
born April 5. 1859; married June 27, 1878, to Reuben H. Kem-
erer, by Rev. J. F. Snyder. To them were born the following
children : — Residence, S. Greensburg, Pa.
William L. Kcmerer. born October 6, 1878; married July 3,
1901, to Lizzie Steiner; residence, Greensburg, Pa.; to them was
born one child, Olive Beatrice, June 19, 1902 ;
Henry Z. L. Kemerer, born May 8. 1880; died November
22, 1886; interred in Hills Cemetery;
Charles C. Kemerer, born October 9, i3S2; died October
28, 1891 ; interred in Hill's cemetery;
Minne F. Kemerer, born December 27, 1884; died Decem-
ber 9, 189 1 ; interred in Hill's cemetery;
Flora D. Kemerer, born December 27, 1 ^87 ; married June
2S, 1905, to James W. Keltz, South Greensburg, Pa. :
Family of Lizzie J. Lauffer, daughter of Peter, son of John,
son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born January
2, 1864; married January 18, 1883, to William H. Kemerer, by
Rev. Jacob F. Snyder. William H. Kemerer was born March 2,
1853; lesidence, New Stanton, Pa.
Family of John P. Lanffer, son of Peter, son of John, son
of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born April 16,
1866; married January 28, 1892, by Rev. J. F. Snyder, to Annie
E. Wolf, who was born August 20, 1871. To them were born
the following children :
Charles Humes Lauffer, born August 7, 1892;
William Andrew Lauffer, born June 14, 1895 \
Joseph Eugene Lauffer, born April 24, 1903.
Family of Henry Z. Lauffer, son of Peter, son of John, son
of Henry, Sr., son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, was born in
Penn Township, Westmoreland County, Pa., January 1, 1868;
married April 2^, 1891, by Rev. James S. Freeman, to Mary E.
Hill, who was born March 14, 1868. Like boys raised on the
lac The Lavffkr History.
farm he grew to manhood without being exposed to the
vice? that belong to idleness. He helped his father in the sum-
mer and attended the district school in the winter.
Hi never knew the value of a mother's love, his mother
dying when he was hut six years old. His father died when
h< was eighteen, leaving Henry to shift for himself. He proved
I equal to the emergency and for two years worked for
brother, receiving $10.00 per month in the summer and his
rd in the winter.
The third summer he secured work with a cousin, Simon
Trice, and at the expiration of his time attended the Greensburg
Seminary. He entered Duff's Commercial College, where, in or-
der to pay his way he worked in an office for .S5.00 a week, lie
diligently pursued his studies in the evenings, graduating with
honor.
After completing- his course he accompanied one of his
teachers. Prof. Thompson, whose health had failed, to Wilmer-
ding, and clerked in his grocery.
He remained with Mr. Thompson until the latter disposed
of his business when he worked for Snyder Bros, during the
illness of a clerk. Having nothing in view he accept-
ed an offer to carry papers for William Adams, a news dealer,
receiving very meager pay.
Bui .>oon John R. Montgomery, a Turtle Creek merchant,
found a place for Mr. Lauffer in his office and store, where he
remained sometime.
' »n April 2^. 1891, Mr. Lauffer was united in marriage with
Miss Mary E. Hill, a dress maker of Wilkinsburg. Having been
working on verj small salaries since leaving college, he con-
ceived the idea of becoming a dress maker. With him to think.
\\a^ to do, and soon he became quite proficient in the art.
Later he secured a position with Johnston Bros., of Wilkins-
burg, remaining two years. He also spent two years a< head
book-kieper for a wholesale confectionery company, of Pittsburg.
Returning to his native township in August. 1895. he ac-
cepted a position as book-keeper at the Union Planing Mill Co.,
of Jeannette, where he remained for more than five years, re-
THE
P,
'■? 3 X. £> -3
— c w
a> ® _
c c
1)
** — M
— — • -
< = = —
u •-
a
—
C
N 1
5 .2 ■■' •—
g a, xj
33
. - '3 —
2 — =
xi a
o
£ - =
-* OJ —
Ski
C O 61
i-
a
«
o a
•s p
- S3
u, 3
I .3
. 3 3^
s: st
3 X>
ID ZS
C -^ o
d j= =°
2 3
5l S
The Lauffer History. 121
signing July 31, 1901, to accept a position as chief clerk to the
Hon. John H. Brown, who was appointed Controller of West-
moreland County, by the Governor. This position he held for
a term of three years, filling it very acceptably.
Soon after leaving the County Controllers Office, he was
elected assistant Cashier of the Jeannette National Bank, which
position he now holds.
Mr. Lauffer is an expert accountant, a careful business man
and has hosts of friends. He resides with his wife and children
in a pleasant country home, near Jeannette.
The Lauffer Reunion was held at the home of H. Z. Lauf-
fer, July 4, 1903. Wc reproduce the following clipping from the
Greensburg Press, in reference to same :
REUNION SUCCESSFUL DESPITE HEAVY RAIN.
Although the ugly weather of Saturday kept many from at-
tending the Lauffer reuion at the home of Deputy Controller, H.
Z. Lauffer, Perm towship, 275 people were present and a very
enjoyable time was had.
Owing to the absence of Rev. Frank E. Lauffer, of Aarons-
burg, the program could not be carried out as published. Short
addresses were delivered by Rev. J. M. Evans, of Harrison City,
Rev. C. E. Wagner, of Delmont, Rev. J. N. Bauman, of Jeannette,
and Rev. J. F. Snyder, of Salina. Good music was rendered by
the Knobloch orchestra, Greensburg. At noon an elegant dinner
was served on tables in the barn.
General regret was expressed that the venerable John Lauf-
fer, of Harrison City, was unable to be present as the guest of
honor. It will be recalled that on January 26, Mr. Lauffer cele-
brated his one-hundreth birthday anniversary.
To them were born the following children :
Sadie Catharine Hawe Lauffer, born February 20, 1892:
James Freeman Lauffer, born November 10, 1895;
Alta Mary Lauffer, born December 28, 1897 ;
Ruth Hill Lauffer, born June 5, 1900;
Ethel Margaret Lauffer, born March 26, 1903.
itj The Laupfer History
J;a:, il\ of Joseph A. Lauffer, son of Peter, son of John, son
oi Henry, son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born May 10. 1870;
married January 1, 1904, by Rev. C. R. Dieffenbacher, to Eliza-
beth C. Bndenthal, who was born ( October 24, [880; residence. 70
Wesl - cond street, Greensburg, Pa. To whom was born one
child, I Mildred, February 9. 1905, address Greensburg, Pa.
Family of Anna M. Lauffer, daughter of Peter Lauffer, son
of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer. the Pioneer,
born on September 25. 1S71 ; married September 29, 1892, by
Rev. James S. Freeman, to Calvin P. Ashbaugh, who was born
March iS, iS68. To their, were born the following children:
Mary E. Ashbaugh, born August 5, (893; residence Irwin,
Pa.. R. F. !>.. 2;
Elmer G. Ashbaugh. born January 1. 1897; residence Ir-
win. Pa., R. !•'. D. 2:
The Lauffer Reunion of 19x55 was held at the home of C. P.
Ashbaugh. We attach clipping from Greensburg Press, regard-
ing same :
HELD ANNUAL REUNION.
Lauffer Family Spend Delightful Day Near Harrison Cxi
The annual Lauffer reunion was held at the home of C. P.
\shbaugh, two miles northwest of Harrison City, and was one of
the most successful yet held, nearly 200 people being present.
All broughl well filled baskets, the contents of which were spread
on eight tables, arranged in the large barn floor. After the bless-
ing was offered by the Rev. Frank Lauffer. of Aaronsburg, full
justice was done to the fea.st.
After dinner Rev. Frank E. Lauffer made an address in
which he gave a very complete history of the Lauffer family and
descendants. The history will soon be published in book form.
During the past year death chi.1- la ber of the Lauffer fami-
!v and relatives. These were greatly missed at the reunion, as
they alwa; s took an active part in the exercises. Yesterday a
near relative in the person of Mrs. Henry Stokum, was laid
to rest, and a few days before Mrs. Dudie Duff was buried. The
s- K
x ■—
: -r
c
~ I
- I
* eg
O SC _J
C I)
C •—
K —
i »
c is
-
—
as
~
Sf
k.
V
J
T
•
Q
_
'J?
£_
U
c
JS
•■*-
-«-l
a?
c
+j
03
7
'■-.
1/
r
>«J
~
<
j_
a,
X
■5
SC
1
^2
o.
C
i—»
■*■
■5
t;
—
tic
Jj
V
-
1L
—
__
X
<
5
»
'.
p-
7.
~r
, ■
K
_ ~
■— '
•
X
ta
^,
•-
z
£=
^
>C
—
■^
-
£
■— •
*
=
r
Tf
-4— '
^
*?"
o
2j
■—
;—
"-
™
I
c
J-
~
cc
— •
a,
z
-*—
i-
.
The Lauffer History. 123
latter a few days before she died expressed her desire to attend
this reunion. Another death was that of Mrs. Philip Lauffer,
at whose hospitable home the first family reunion was planned
and held 15 years ago. She might well be called the mother of
the Lauffer leunion.
These vacant places caused much gloom to pervade the as-
semblage. A vote of thanks was tendered Air. and Airs. Ash-
baugh for their hospitality and courteous treatment of the rel-
atives and friends.
Among the relatives present from Greensburg were: George
Trice and family, James C. Lauffer and Joseph Lauffer and fa-
mily.
Family of Peter Lauffer, son of John, son of Henry, son of
Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born January 16, 1827; married
December 3, 1874, by Rev. J. F. Snyder, to Sarah Stokum, who
was born July 22, 1842, in Franklin Township, Westmoreland
County, Pa., to whom were born the following children :
Peter G. Lauffer, born April 1, 1876; married July 21, 1904,
to Ella F. Ilarvison ;
Alice L. Lauffer, born April 4, 1878;
Labana A. Lauffer, born September 30, 1880; died Dec. 18,
1882, interred in Hill's Cemetery ;
Minnie M. Lauffer, born April 15, 1883.
Family of Peter G. Lauffer, son of Peter, son of John, son
of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born April
I, 1876; married July 21, 1904, by Rev. Charles Stimkard, to
Fula F. Harvison, who was born August 15, 1886. Residence,
Harrison City, Pa.
Family of Alice L. Lauffer, daughter of Peter Lauffer, son
of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born
April 4, 1878; married December 25, 1895, by Rev. J. M. Evans,
to George B. Lauffer, of Harrison City, Pa., who was born July
16, 1863. To them were born the following children:
Infant, born January 11, 1897; died January 13, 1897; in-
terred at Denmark Manor Cemetery ;
Peter G. Lauffer, born December 10, 1897; residence, Har-
rison City, Pa.:
12.) The Lauffer History.
il Lauffer, born November 2~, 1899: residence, Har-
rison City, Pa. ;
Charles E. Lauffer, born October 14, 1901 ; residence, Har-
rUou City, I 'a. ;
John Howard Lauffer, born November 19, 1903; residence,
1 larrison City, Pa. ;
Roy Emerson, born January 3, 1906; residence, Harrison
City, Pa.
Family of Minnie May Lauffer. daughter of Peter Lauffer,
•-nil of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer,
bom April 15, 1883; married April 30, 1902, to Andrew Baiu
man. by Lew ( ieorge J. Diener.
Family of Sarah Lauffer, daughter of John, son of Henry,
son ^i Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born January 29, 1829;
married December 19. 1850. to Jo.-ia Kemerer, who was born
September 10. 1823. To them were born the following children:
Israel G. Kemerer, born September 30, 1851 ; residence, Ex-
port, I'::. .
David S. Kemerer, born November 10, 1854; married No-
vember 20, [879, to Mary C. Stout: residence. Export, Pa.:
Caroline R. Kemerer, born February 28. 1858: married Oc-
r 12, [88o, to Samuel Sadler: residence. Export, Pa.:
Angoiine Kemerer, born February 28, 1858; married Febru-
arv 2><, 1884, to William Hutton ;
Sarah E. Kemerer. born September 20. 1865; married Mar.
16, 1887, to Morrison J. Bush.
Family of Israel G. Kemerer, son of Sarah (Lauffer) Kem-
erer, daughter of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer,
the Pioneer, born September 30, 185 1 ; married December 21,
1882, to Hettie M. Carr, by Rev. J. F. Snyder; residence, Ex-
port, Pa. To them were born the following children :
Rosev Ethel May, born Februarv 4, 1885 ; address, Pitcairn.
Pa.;
Josiah Charles Rowlan Kemerer, born December 21, 1887;
address. Export, Pa. ;
Clyde Kemerer, born May 9, 1893: residence, Export, Pa.;
Maggie Kemerer, born June 12, 1896: residence, Export, Pa.
Peter G. and wife Eula Lauffek nee Harvisoo, tith
son of Peter Lauffer, 2nd great grand son of Christian trie
Pioneer, at whose hospitable home the reunion of 1906 May
30 will be held.
A.NDREW BAUGHMAN AND His WIFE MlNNIE M.W, lift'
Lauffer, the youngest daughter of Peter, 2ml great grand
daughter of Christian the Pioneer. Taking an active part
in reunion of 1906.
The Lauffer History. 125
Family of David S. Kemerer, son o^ Sarah (Lauffer) Kem-
erer, daughter of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer,
the Pioneer, born Nov. to, i854;married Nov. 20, 1879, to Mary
C. Stout, by Rev. J. F. Snyder, residence, Export, Pa. To them
were bcrn the following children :
Xevin P>. Kemerer. born Mar. 6, 1881 ; married, April 29,
1903, to Mary Watson, residence, Export, Pa.
Lilly Pearl Kemerer, born May 7, 18S3 ; Married March 16,
1905 ; to Edward Lutz ; residence, Stewart Station, Pa. ;
Essie S. A. Kemerer, April 2, 1885 ;
John M. Kemerer, February 3, 1887;
Cloy M. Kemerer, May 4, 1890;
Nellie S. Kemerer, Sept. 19, 1893 »
Lloyd J. P». Kemerer, February 6, 1896;
Duncan M. Kemerer, June 23, 1898;
Lourie L. Kemerer, Sept. 3, 1900;
Infant baby, no name, June 29, 1905.
Family of Caroline R. Kemerer, daughter of Sarah (Lauffer)
Kemerer, daughter of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauf-
fer, the Pioneer, born February 28, 1858; married October 12,
1880, by Rev. J. F. Snyder, to Samuel J. Sadler, who was born
July 20, 1856. To them were born the following children:
Eva Duella Sadler, born May 19, 1882; died September 2,
1887 ;
! rael Emanuel Sadler, born April 23, 1886;
Harn Snyder Sadler, born August 31, 1893.
Family of Angeline Kemerer, daughter of Sarah (Lauf-
fer) Kemerer, .laughter of John Lauffer, son of Henry, son of
Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born February 28, 1858; married
February 28, 1884, by Rev. J. F. Snyder, to William M. Hutton,
to whom were born the following children :
Effie A. Hutton, born December 1, i88j.; residence, Delmont,
Pa. ;
Anna S. Hutton, born December 29, 1885 '■> residence, Del-
mont, Pa. :
Infant son, born January 4, 1S87 ; died January 4, 1887;
Laura K. Hutton, born June 7, 1889.
126 The Laukfhr History.
Florence E. Hutton, born September 21, 1891 ;
Mary C. Hutton, born November 4, 1893 ;
Bert E. Hutton, born July 20, 1897.
Family of Sarah Elizabeth Kemerer, daughter of Sarah
(Lauffer) Kemerer, daughter of John Lauffer, son of Henry,
son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born September 20, 1865 ;
married March 16, 1887, t0 Morrison J. Bush, by Rev. J. F. Sny-
der. To them were born the following children :
Park Homer Bush, born August 28, 188S! address. Delmont,
Pa.;
Pa.
Pa.
Rush Boyd Bush, born January 22, 1892; address, Delmont,
Ella Hazel Bush, born November 4, 1893 ; address, Delmont,
Lloyd Irvin Bush, born June 8, 1901 ; address, Delmont, Pa.
Family of Lydia Lauffer, daughter of John, son of Henry,
son of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, born July 27, 183 1 ; mar-
ried August, 1861, by Rev. N. P. Hacke, to Jacob \Y. Kemerer,
who was born July 24, 1832.
DIED.
Near, Manor Dale, Pa., December 24, Mrs. Lydia Kemerer,
aged 62 years, 4 months and 2/ days. The deceased had been
afflicted for a number of years with asthmatic and dropsical trou-
bles. La Grippe set in and in one short week terminated her
earthly life. In infancy she was baptized by Rev. Winch and
confirmed by him in the sixteenth year of her age. She was a
communicant member of the Emmanuel congregation for 45
years. Like her daughter, Mrs. Steele, who died a few years ago,
she left a legacy, the interest of which is to be usd in keeping the
God's acre in which her body reposes beautiful and in order. By
that legacy, though dead, she yet speaketh. "Arise ye and de-
part, for this is not your rest."
To them were born the following children :
Sarah H. Berlin Kemerer, born October 16, 1858; married
December 18, 1900, to Edward J. Klingensmith ; residence, Brad-
dock, Pa., 513 Hawkins avenue;
M l> 1 _ -s l > I v K EMERER.
The Lauffer History. 127
Emma Jane Kemerer, born October 21, 1863; married Feb-
ruary 1889, to Elmer Steel, residence Manordale, Pa.
Emma Jane Kemerer Steel, died June 10, 1890 ; had one infant
child, born November 22, 1889, which died March 21, 1890, after
which she died, June 10, 1890;
For the Rcfor;;ied Church Record.
DIED.
Departed this life, June 10. 1890, Mrs. Emma J., wife of El-
mer Steele, and daughter of [acob W. and Lydia A. Kemerer, aged
26 years, 7 months and 9 days.
Sister Emma was a most faithful and devoted member of
the Emanuel Reformed congregation, Manor Dale, Westmore-
land Co., Pa. In infancy she was given to God in baptism, Dr.
Hacke performing the sacred and solemn ordinance. In her fif-
teenth year, after a full and thorough course of catechetical in-
struction she, with seventeen other young persons, was admitted
into full communion with the Christian Church by the solemn
and impressive rite of confirmation, by her pastor, the Rev. J.
F. Snyder. During- all these vears she was a faithful and devot-
ed worshipper, never absent from the services of the sanctuary
and the holy communion, except when providentially prevented.
She was one of God's meek, quiet, kind, gentle, unassuming, un-
complaining saints. Although physically delicate ( she surpassed
man}' a robust, healthy Christian in her faithful attendance upon
the services of the sanctuary and the means of grace. She was
the light and joy of the home in sikness as well as in health.
With a calm and cheerful countenance, as an angel of mercy, she
would go from bed to bed and tenderly minister to suffering loved
ones. When La Grippe prostrated the members of the family, and
brought her mother to the point of death, for long weary days
and nights, as an affectionate and devoted wife, a dutiful and
loving daughter, a kind and gentle sister, she tenderly cared for
them. When health again began to visit the family, in the pro-
vidence of God she was called to walk through the deep waters
of affliction. The dear babe that God had given her was after
a few hours' illness removed from earth. Her heart bled under
128 The Lauffer History.
this new and sore bereavement, but by the grace of God she gave
it up without one murmuring word. Stricken down by fever,
her illness was of short duration. The messenger came sudden-
ly, but did not find her unprepared. Months before she departed,
while in her usual health, she had set apart a sum of money for
keeping in repair the beautiful God's acre in which her body now
sleeps. By her earnest Christian life, her faithfulness and devo-
tion, her leg.. the church, what a memorial she reared, more
enduring than granite or marble !
"Soldier of God, well done !
Rest from thy loved employ ;
The battle fought, the victory won,
Enter thy Master's joy."'
Clara Idela Kemerer, born May 25, 1867; residence Wilkins-
burg, Pa.
Hacke N. P. Kemerer, born April 21, 1869; residence, Tur-
tle Creek, Pa.
Malinda Kemerer, born March 9, 1872; residence, Wilkins-
burg, Pa.
Anna M. Kemerer, born April 18, 1877; died Jan. 16. 1900;
interred in Hill cemetery.
SHE NOW SLEEPS.
The relatives and friends of the late Anna Mary Kemerer
gathered on Thursday afternoon at the home of Jacob Kemerer,
of Franklin township, to pay their last respects to his departed
daughter, whose death was previously mentioned in these col-
umns. After brief service at the house the mourners repaired
to Hill's church. Notwithstanding the bad roads and inclement
weather the cortege was nearly a mile long.
Her former pastor, J. F. Snyder, of Hill's church, conducted
the service. He took his text from Jer. 15th chapter and part of
the 9th verse : "Her sun is gone down while it is yet day." He
spoke in part as follows :
The death of a young person just blossoming into woman-
hood is compared in our text to a primitive sunset. We are not
The Lauffer History. 129
called upon to mourn the loss of an aged pilgrim, bowed down
upon his staff, but that of a young lady who had just reached
maturity. I refer you, my dear friends, to the Bible for comfort
and consolation. We are not like the infidels or unbelievers
without hope. If ye have faith in God, ye have nothing to fear.
The word of God takes every Christian by the hand, as it were,
and bears them up on the pinion of faith to Heaven. Let us fix
our minds and hearts upon the text. Figures and images made
use of in the scriptures are employed to lift our minds heaven-
ward. The Christian life is attractive, pleasant and comforting,
like the sun. The death of a Christian or a child of God is
beautiful, calm and peaceful like the setting of the mighty sun in
the west. The sun sets to rise again, so it is with the body of the
Christian. Jesus said, 'The dead will rise again.' 'Blessed are
the dead that die in the Lord.' Our sun may set at any time.
Are we ready? Our departed sister was born April 18, 1877.
She was baptized December 22, 1877. She became a communi-
cant member of my church on the 25th of March, 1894. While
yet a child she regularly attended Sabbath school. She was an
earnest, quiet, devoted and true Christian. She was a regular at-
tendant upon her religious duties. Having baptized her, confirm-
ed her, and having been closely associated with her almost her
entire life. She seemed almost as dear to me as one of my own
family. Her life most attractive, beautiful and comforting like
the sun in all his glory. She remained a member of my charge
until April 1, 1899, when she connected herself with the Reformed
church of Latrobe. She remained faithful until the last. After
an illness of five weeks she was called to her heavenly home.
She departed this life January 16, 1900. Her departure was so
peaceful that her friends at her bedside scarcely knew when she
was departing this life and entering the life beyond. Just like
the setting of the sun, so peaceful, we scarcely know when the
day is ending and the night begins. We have reasons to believe
that she had been expecting an early death and was prepared for
it when it came. She left a legacy to the church. This is the
third legacy that has been left by members of this family. The
mother and sister, who preceded her, left legacies. Being dead,
she yet speaks to us through her works."
130 The Lauffer History.
After services the deceased was interred in Hill's cemetery.
To the Sleeper.
"Oh, our darling, you have left us,
You have left us, oh, so lone,
And the cold, dark waves of sorrow
• Have engulfed our happy home.
"Thou wast all that's grand and noble,
Thou was ever good and true ;
All that makes thy sex endearing,
Centered all dear love, in you.
"But amid the poignant anguish
Of our hearts, all wrung with grief,
i Comes a whisper from the shadows —
Comes with healing and relief.
'And its sweet and loving cadence,
Freighted deep with holy love,
Bears to us the sweet assurance,
That for us you wait above."
Anna L. Kemerer, born April 18, 1877; residence, Wilkins-
burg. Pa.
Family of Hacke X. P. Kemerer, son of Lydia (Lauffer)
Kemerer, daughter of John, son of Henry, son of Christian
Lauffer, the pioneer, born April 21, 1869; married March 6, 1901,
by Rev. Jacob Snyder, to Gertie M. Watt, of Mamont ; residence,
Turtle Creek, Pa. To them were born the following children : —
Ira Edward Kemerer, born October 17, 1902 ; residence,
Turtle Creek, Fa.
Wilber Lawrence Kemerer, born March 20, 1904.
Family of Joseph Lauffer, son of John, son of Henry, son of
Christian Lauffer, the pioneer, born December 21, 1833; married
February 24, 1859, by Rev. Vetter, to Esther Berlin, who was
born February 27, 1834, and who died January 20. 1895. Jo-
seph Lauffer died April 21, 1894. To Joseph Lauffer and wife
were born the following children: —
C
r-
The Lauffer History. 131
Israel E. Lauffer, born January 3, i860; died December 24,
1890; interred at Export:
THE DEAD LAWYER.
Account of the Death of District Attorney I. E. Lauffer, Which
Occurred Dec. 24, 1890, Together With
Some Beautiful Tributes.
Another name is stricken from the list of attorneys, and a
Bar popular for the brilliancy of its members, mourns the loss
of a shining light. At two o'clock this morning, December 24,.
District Attorney I. E. Lauffer breathed his last. His death was
not unexpected, as the disease was of such a character as to
leave little, if any, room for hope. We have said that he was
dying, and our readers, no doubt, expected the end. It has come
and overshadowed, with a cloud of grief, the festivities of the
usual Christmas joys.
I. E. Lauffer was born Jan. 3, i860, near Murraysville,
Westmoreland county, and was a son of Joseph and Esther (Ber-
lin) Lauffer. His early life was spent on his father's farm.
Entering the common schools he soon manifested a desire to
learn, and not content with the advantages they afforded, he ex-
pressed a desire to attend higher institutions of learning.
When Professor G. H. Hugus, our present superintendent,
took charge of the Delmont academy, Mr. Lauffer, then a mere
boy, walked from his father's home to Delmont, a distance of
four miles, to attend school. He had the energy that wins.
He continued his studies and naturally drifted into teach-
ing. He was a most successful teacher and soon made his mark
in that calling. He was the principal of the Ludwick schools
and a teacher in the seminary. Coming to choose a profession
he selected law and became a student in the office of Judge James
A. Hunter. He was most fortunate in making this selection, and
we feel that his distinguished preceptor felt honored in his pupil.
Permit us to say that Judge Hunter and his most excellent wife
became attached to him and learned to love him as a son and none
were more attentive to him on his dying bed. We can assure
132 Thk Laufper History.
them that their love was reciprocated, as the deceased often spoke
to us of their kindness.
Five years ago, in 1885, he was admitted to the bar and cli-
ents seemed to be waiting for the event. He soon gained a large
practice, lie was a natural lawyer. Common sense is the most
powerful element in his profession and he worshipped at its
shrine. He was always equal to the occasion.
In 1889, Ik- was the choice of his party for District Attorney
and a colleague on the ticket with L. \Y. Doty, Esq., and Mr.
Lucien Clawson. It is admitted that this ticket was one of the
strongest ever presented to the people of Westmoreland county,
and it overwhelmingly triumphed at the polls. On the beginning
of the present year, Mr. Laufi'er was sworn into office and conduct-
ed the affairs of the Criminal Court in a manner highly satisfac-
tory to the people. Wc feel that the public was conscious of his
usefulness and it is needless for us to add any words of prai
At the close oi the November term of Criminal Court he
took ill, and his illness developed into typhoid pneumonia. Every
thing possible was done for him. He had the most careful nurs-
ing, and seemed on a fair way to recovery. A relapse took piice
and he rapidly sunk until death came to his relief at the time
stated.
His funeral will take place on Friday from the residence of
his father, in Franklin township. Services will be held tomorrow
at 10 o'clock in Zion's Lutheran church, this place.
Every person who was accosted thi- morning spoke only in
the kindest terms of the deceased. As already said, he was uni-
wrsallv admired. Judge Dotv was found in his study this
morning by a Record man. He was creatly affected over the
death of the District Attorney. Speaking of him, he said: 1
knew Lauffer very well and feel that his death is a public loss.
I have been very intimately associated with him during the past
year, and I never knew a man more faithful in the discharge of
public duty. He made personal sacrifices in order to save suitors,
and the county unnecessary costs. His whole ambition seemed
to be to discharge his full duty. He discouraged trifling litiga-
tion, and he did not multiply bills for the purpose of increasing
I. E. Lauffer, Esq.
Died Dec. 24, 1890, during his term
of District Attorney of Westmoreland
( !ountv.
The Lauffer History. 133
fees. Others may be as great in the knowledge of the law, but
it will be a long time before one is found who will be more faith-
ful or more successful in the office left vacant by his death. In
addition to this he was eminently a social and kind-hearted man.
He was generous in his judgment of men in extending aid to
those who were needy. His sterling qualities attracted to him a
large following of devoted friends. In this respect he was ex-
ceptional, the most incongruous elements uniting in his support.
EX-JUDGE HUNTER'S TRIBUTE.
Ex-Judge James A. Hunter, with whom Mr. Lauffer studied
law, thus spoke in reference to the one whom he so much adored :
"District Attorney I. E. Lauffer read law with me. He was
a very faithful and industrious student and seemed to drink in the
law. Frequently I cautioned him not to overwork himself, but
he became so wedded to his studies that a text book was never out
of his hands while in the office, as well as, I have every reason to
believe, in his private chamber. He was a young man of sterling
integrity, as honest and as pure as the best piece of steel. There
was no hypocrisy about him. He was what he was and that only.
At first there was a shade of doubt in my mind as to his final suc-
cess at the bar owing to his modesty and, as I thought, retiring
disposition, but before he closed his studies, this thought was dis-
sipated, knowing that labor would bring its own reward and in
addition thereto when he came to the bar I was confirmed in my
belief that he would prove a success in his profession.
"Mr. Lauffer was a man of the purest morals. I never
knew him to ray a word or do an act inconsistent with that of a
Christian man. Both myself and family became warmly at-
tached to Mr. Lauffer, whose death was most deeply deplored."
As we have met here this day to express our sorrow at the
death of a young man in his best years, we feel like saying with
one of our poets :
"Oh, what hadst thou to do with cruel death,
Who wast so full of life, or death with thee,
That thou shouldst die before thou hadst grown old?"
134 Thf Laupper History.
It is so natural to expect that they who are taken to their
last resting place should first come nigh unto three score years
and ten. Death seems to belong as little to youth as darkness to
thf earlier hours of day. In the forenoon of life we not only hope
for the usual length of time ere the sun set, but also for the deeds
and achievements to which this time gives opportunity. And our
hearts are startled with sad surprise when this hope comes to an
end with the announcement that "the young man is dead."
An illustration of this is now before us. Mr. I. E. Lauffer
would only have been thirty-one years of age had he lived till
the 3rd of next month. Only one score and ten years, instead of
three score years and ten! Only three of the seven stages passed'
The regret is universal that he should have died so young. Men
everywhere give expression to this regret in tones that are vibrant
with profoundest sympathy, and the saddest of it all comes out in
so much stronger conirast ns it looms up beside the pleasures
which cluster about this season of the year. In a short time the
remains of our departed friend will be on their way to the chill
darkness of the grave, while the living are gathering to the glad
festivities of Christmas.
In looking back over the life that is gone, we find much even
in its one score years and ten, to admire and to hold in loving
remembrance. A sturdy faithfulness to duty has always charac-
terized the departed. They can bear testimony to this who have
cared for him from his earliest days. And, even if we had not
the testimony of his parents, we would be able to judge of this
from his record in Greensburg. For it is not possible that such
a manhood could spring from anything but a child-hood well
trained, obedient and faithful. "Of thorns men do not gather
figs, nor of a bramble bush gather grapes ;" and of an indifferent
childhood they cannot gather a real, manly character. How can
a stream rise higher than its fountain? From what we know of
Mr. Lauffer, we ire sure that the fountain of his career was high
up in the sphere of piety and prayer, and as near to a life in Christ
as the hands of a Christian parental example and an early conse-
cration to God could lift him.
The Lauffhr History. 135
He was faithful as a student in the academies at Delmont
and Murravsville, where he received his preliminary training for
the work of coming years. Of this we have evidence in his excel-
lent mental training. His insight into the varied problems of his
profession was clear; and this indicates the highest ability, if
Carlyle's saying if correct, that "insight is power." A stranger
could easily have misjudged him. His appearance was of ex-
treme modesty, and, in disposition, he was rather retiring. But
back of that quiet exterior, was a mind as strong as the unseen cur-
rent that flashes its message from land to land. Back of it was an
intelligence that lit up the subject before him as clearly as the
sunbeam that drops in silence upon the earth. Back of it was a
judgment as true to the right as a magnetic needle to its pole.
But to this, aside from his natural gifts, he could not have at-
tained had he been unfaithful or a sluggard, in his educational
course. God had given him a good mind — excellent natural
gifts, without which it would have been impossible to reach the
position he held • and through these he might easily have been
tempted to the indolence that has ruined so many. But indo-
lence was foreign to his character at all times; for without steady
industry , he could no more have gathered the fruits that clus-
tered about him during these last few years, than one can reap
a harvest from an unsown, though fertile field. His talents
were in great part those which are developed by hard work.
He was faithful as an instructor. You remember the days
when he was principal of the Ludwick schools, and as teacher at
the Greensburg Seminary. During that time he gave evidence
of the same sterling qualities that had characterized him as a
student. We know that he was very fond of children, and that
the children were very fond of him. This alwaysv speaks well
for a man, for children, with their quick intuitions, will only take
to those in whom there is good reason for love and respect. And
as a teacher, he was both respected and loved. He was respected
because he stood faithful to every duty as a teacher, considering
that he was responsible for the daily improvement of those who
were entrusted to his care. And he was loved because he dealt
with his scholars in the spirit of affectionate interest. A man
136 Thk Laupper History.
gets more of life's truest blessings than that which he pays for;
and what greater blessing is there than that of having the affec-
tion of those with whom one is laboring? But to receive this,
one must pay for it with affection in return, and, if we judge of
Mr. Lauffer by this standard, his must have been a heart of more
than ordinary love and kindness. Only in this spirit can a man
be truly faithful, whether it be to himself or to others ; for with
it he has a power that fairly lifts and impels him to the doing of
his duty.
The time came that he entered upon the study of law, his
chosen profession. His friends had doubts at first as to his suc-
cess in this line. The quiet modesty with which he made appli-
cation to his future preceptor would, in these days of general
self-sufficiency, make almost anyone hesitate as to the fitness of
the applicant. It is so unusual. We someho^v expect everyone
to sound his own praises, and to make as striking a first impres-
sion as possible. He came to his preceptor quietly; he did his
work quietly: he succeeded quietly; and quietly, but with every
promise of an enviable future, he took his place among a class of
men of this town whom it is far from easy to compete with. A
young lawyer has far to travel before he can stand beside the
best of his profession here. Rut Mr. Lauffer was fast striding
toward the front. His colleagues have admitted this. And the
force that sent h;;u forward was generated in those quiet hours
of intense study under the supervision of his able preceptor.
A Tribute to the Memory of I. P. Lauffer by Rev. A. D. Potts,
His Former Pastor.
Although the announcement of District Attorney Lauffer's
death was not an unexpected one, yet I must confess that it truly
was a sad one.
From the frequent newspaper notices relative to his condi-
tion I gathered the information that his recovery was well-nigh
mipossible. But now to realize that one so young, so industrious
and so truly destined, humanely speaking, to achieve greatness
and helpfulness is laid low in the embrace of death, is a faithful
reminder that before the onward sweep of the destroying angel
all mortals must sooner or later fall.
The Lauffer History. 137
My acquaintanceship with Mr. Lauffer runs back in years
of his boyhood days, and I can truthfully say that my most vivid
recollections of him and his steady onward course convince me
that, in honesty of purpose, integrity of character, and in nobility
of soul.he was as true to all as the needle to the pole and "righteous-
ness to the plummet." Of an unassuming disposition he never-
theless attracted the considerate attention of the many with whom
he associated. There was something about him that drew one
almost unconsciously near to him.
Considerateness was a chief characteristic in his general
makeup. It was his" principal aim to find the right path, and then
lo walk unswervingly along the same. He was not ashamed to
seek counsel, and I remember distinctly when he came to me as
his friend and former pastor, and sought what little advice I was
humbly able to furnish. When he believed that he was right, no
alluring or time-serving compensation was great enough to draw
him aside from the path of rectitude and duty. In disposition he
was as affable and kind as the most tender-hearted woman. To
injure, by thought, word or deed, the lowest of earth's multitude,
was the act remotest of his being. Then he was a particularly
humble man. A self-bolstered popularity and pretentious worth
found no place in his manly deportment.
While he was in the beginning of his public career, he like-
wise, was at its end. His ambitions did not fly out of the win-
dows of vaulting success, but it led him along the humble road to
be and to do good. To keep others from getting into trouble was
his pre-eminent desire. He wanted all who sought his counsel
to sfart right, in. order that they might end right. Simplicity
and generosity of heart made him what he was. While under my
pastoral care, no one could have been more faithful, more devout,
and more truth imbibing than he was. I knew him then to be
noble and good. But after our separation I failed not to observe
his actions and progress. I thought I saw in him an ideal young
man. Had he lived, I firmly believe that he would have reached
the verv eminence in public life that I had sighted out for him in
the coming time. An infinite wisdom, however, let fall over all
my prophetic dream a dispensation that is just and good. While
1*8 Thh Lauffer History
d
my heart feels sad that my young and prized friend hap left us,
still I bow in humble submission to Him who doeth all things
well. And when the inscription in the granite block that may mark
the resting place of his earthly remains, has been effaced by the
corroding finger of time's elements, and even when the recording
tablet if self has mouldered into dust, there will remain, in the
hearts and memories of his friends, the imperishable epitaph, "I.
E. LaufTeT, the honorable, the useful, the upright, and the Chris-
tian young man."
Touching Words by His Honor Judge Doty.
Upon the opening of the present term of court His Honor
Judge Doty, before proceeding to the consideration of other mat-
ters, referred feelingly to the death of District Attorney Lauffer.
Addressing himself to the grand jury he said :
"It is less than three months since our last charge to the
grand jury, and in that brief time great and important events have
occurred. The district attorney, chosen by the people of the
county, was then in full life and apparent health. Now more
than a month has already elapsed since he was consigned to his
last resting place in the quiet churchyard in the beautiful valley
he loved so well. We cannot allow this occasion to pass without
adverting to the fact of his death, and without acknowledging in
a public manner our appreciation of the value of his services
while living. While he occupied this quas-judicial position we
had every opportunity to observe his conduct, and while in some
respects he was an comprehensible and unique character, we be-
lieve we learned to know him well, and we are sure we appreci-
ated his services. His mainspring of action was a desire to faith-
fully discharge the duties of his office. He was not mercenary,
or he would have multiplied bills in order to increase the revenues
of the office. He was faithful to the court and to his client,
and withal recognized the character and dignity of the office he
held and refused to press for a conviction, in his jujdgment, was
not fully justified by the evidence. He manifested ability and ex-
hibited extraordinary energy and patience in the performance of
the trying duties of his office. If he showed any weakness at all,
The Lauffer History. 139
it proceeded from a naturally amiable disposition and kindness of
heart. He died young-, but lived long enough to accomplish much
good and to give promise of still greater usefulness in the future.
The little world in which he lived paused a moment when Lauffer
died, and unusual sympathy and regret were heard on every side.
But the times are too busy to long pause. Practical duties de-
mand the attention of living men. No one is absolutely essential
in any sphere of activity. We take our turn and play our part
and move on to make room for others pressing after."
Gerusha J. Lauffer, born June 15, 1861 ; married November
24, 1887, to S. J. Duff; residence, Manordale, Pa. Died June 28,
1905.
Sarah L. Lauffer, born May 28, 1863; married February 22,
1900, to W. G. Kline ; residence, Manordale, Pa.
Mehalah J. Lauffer, born April 27, 1865 ; married May 22,
1891, to George Geiger ; died October 31, 1897; interred at Hill's
cemetery.
Mary A. Lauffer, born June27, 1867; married October 20,
1892, to J. W. Soles ; residence, Export, Pa.
Ida C. Lauffer, born January 20, 1870 ; married February 25,
1897, to W. J. McGrinn ; residence, Export, Pa.
J. Fink Lauffer, born February 15, 1872; married June 16,
1898, to Alice P. Jenkins; residence, Export, Pa.
E. B. Lauffer, born April 5, 1874 ; residence, Export, Pa.
Bertha M. Lauffer, born March 22, 1876; married February
14, 1895, to Ira Alexander; residence, Export, Pa.
Family of Gerusha J. Lauffer, daughter of Joseph Lauffer,
son of John, Jr., son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the pio-
neer, born June 15, 1861 ; married November 24, 1887, to S. J.
Duff, by C. L. Halloway. Died June 28, 1905.
Family of Sarah Elizabeth Lauffer, daughter of Joseph Lauf-
fer, son of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the pio-
neer, born May 28, 1863; married February 22, 1900, to William
G. Kline, by Rev. R. G. Rosenbaum. To them were born th« fol-
lowing children : —
140 The Lauffer History.
Infant child (dead born) May 17, 1901 ; interred in White
Valley cemetery.
Elias L. Kline, born Deccml>er 15, 1903.
Family of Mahala L. Lauffer, daughter of Joseph Lauffer, son
of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the pioneer, born
April 27, 1865; married May 14. 1891, to George N. Geigcr, by
Rev. F. E. Lauffer. To them were horn the following children:
Israel E. Geiger, born October 19, 1891.
William H. Geiger, born April — , 1893.
Joseph F. Geiger, born January 21, 1895.
Family cf Mary A. Lauffer, daughter of Joseph Lauffer, son
of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the pioneer, born
June 27, 1867; married October 20, 1892, to John W. Soles, by
Rev. F. E. Lauffer, assisted by Rev. P. Doerr. To them were
born the following children : —
Harry W. Soles, born November 3, 1893; died August 4,
1S94: interred at Export. Pa.
Hazel J. Soles, born August 15, 1895.
Olive M. Soles, born December 30, 1900; died April 14,
. 1901 ; interred at Export, Pa.
Elery David Soles, born April 4, 1904.
Emery Joseph Soles, born April 4, 1904.
Family of Ida C. Lauffer, daughter of Joseph Lauffer. son
of John., son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the pioneer,
born January 20, 1870: married February 25, 1897, by Rev. P.
E>oerr. to William A. McGinn. To them were born the following
children :
Josephine E. McGinn, born January 16, 1899; residence, Ex-
port. P:i.
Eliza M. McGinn, born April 28, 1901 ; residence, Export,
Pa.
Infant daughter, born April 28, 1903; died April 29, 1903;
interred in While Valley cemetery.
Family of Bertha M. Lauffer, daughter of Joseph Lauffer,
son of John, son of Henry, son of Christian Lauffer, the pioneer,
born March 22. 1876: married February 14, 1895, by Rev. P.
The Lauffhr History. 141
Doerr, to Ira M. Alexander, to whom were born the following
children : —
William McC. Alexander, born November 23, 1896.
Sarah E. Alexander, born February 7, 1898.
Harry C. Alexander, born December 8, 1901.
Family of Anna LaufTer, daughter of John, son of Henry,
son of Christian Lauffer, the pioneer, born April 2, 1838 ; mar-
ried April 20, 1858, by Rev. N. P. Hacke, to N. Rumbaugh. She
was married a second time by Rev. Stitt, to Mr.| Charles Myers,
from Greensburg, Pa. ; residence, Dnnseith, Rolette County.,
North Dakota (Box 7).
ADDITIONAL BIOGRAPHY OF JOSEPH A. LAUFFER
FROM ANOTHER SOURCE.
Joseph A. Lauffer, Chairman of the Lauffer History
Publication Committee, is one of Greater Greensburg's leading
busine.-s nun. His store is located on West Second Street, near
the corner of Mill street. This store is favorably situated in a
residence portion of the city, and enjoys the patronage of a num-
ber of Greensburg citizens, who reside in that immediate locality,
as well as the good will and trade of many in other parts of
Grcensburg, and from the country districts.
The stock of goods kept by Mr. LaufTer consists of what is
usually termed "general merchandise," embracing groceries, dry
goods, hardware and, in fact, about everything a household re-
quires. In the selection of his stock Mr. Lauffer is guided by
the light of an ample experience, and he aims to keep what the
people need, and to keep a first quality of goods, which he sells
at a fair and equitable price.
In addition to these principles, he cherishes and is governed
by the greater principles embodied in the Golden Rule, by which
his patrons have learned that they can always rely upon honest
and courteous treatment.
That the above is the true foundation of a successful busi-
ness career, has been frequently demonstrated, and the success
of Mr. LaufTer as a merchant is but another instance of the truth.
His first experience in merchandising was in South Greens-
burg, where he embarked upon the sea of enterprise in 1891.
After four years he came to Greensburg and leased the old Blythe
stand, on Maple avenue.
When contemplating leasing this room Mr. Lauffer's friends
did what they could to discourage the venture, pointing out the
fact that others had failed to succeed in that location. Despite
these well-meant efforts, however, he leased the room, which he
successfully occupied for four years. He then leased the store
room in the Pollins building, corner of Mill and Second streets.
The Lauffer History. 143
This room had also been looked upon as an unfortunate point, but
during the seven years it was occupied by Mr. Lauffer he enjoy-
ed a large and lucrative patronage.
Having a justifiable ambition to own property, Mr. Lauffer
purchased his present residence, and, after fitting up two rooms
for store purposes, he removed thereto on April 1st of the present
year. The present arrangements are but temporary in character,
as it is his purpose to materially improve his present facilities.
In addition to the business of merchant, Mr. Lauffer is en-
gaged in the poultry business. He is an ardent advocate of im-
proved breeding, and he keeps only the best varieties of fowls,
furnishing eggs for setting to many people in the country and
elsewhere.
He also furnishes canary birds of the best quality, and has
seven pairs of breeders of those known to fanciers as St. Andreas-
burg. These birds are the best known, and those kept by Mr.
Lauffer are the purest thoroughbreds, imported from Germany.
Prices on these birds can be had on application.
The sacred writer says : "A good name is better than pre-
cious ointment," and many of our citizens have ample cause to
entertain a justifiable pride in the name they have inherited from
their ancestors. We recently saw a history of the Lauffer family,
and from which we learn that it is closely interwoven with the
history of our country for a long period of time. It is a name
that seems to have always been synonymous with good citizen-
ship, history and patriotism, and while this work of the Lauffer
historian is of special interest to those who have descended from
that branch, there is much therein that is of interest to all.
Joseph A. Lauffer, of whom we write, was born in Penn
township, near Harrison City. His only recollection of man's
greatest friend — his mother — is of sitting on her knee, before an
old-fashioned wood fire. She died when he was but four years
of age. His father married again, securing an estimable lady for
his wife, who proved a model step-mother to her sister's mother-
less child. The love of this good woman was fully returned, and
the bond of sympathy between the step-mother and orphan be-
came as strong as links of steel, and as lasting as time. Joseph
144 The Laipfer History.
attended the country school, and assisted his father on the farm.
He afterwards graduated in a high school and was thus prepared
to step out into the world, qualified for any ordinary business pur-
suit.
The excellent woman who supplied a mother's place taught
him to love the things that are good, and carefully guided his
young feet along the paths of righteousness. This training, to-
gether with the example of an upright father, instilled within him
the virtues that have characterized his life, and have enabled him
to win and retain many friends.
Mr. Lauffer is a staunch Republican in politics, and an act-
ive member of the First Reformed churchof Greensburg.
When visiting in the vicinity of Latrobe he met Miss Eliz-
abeth C. Bridenthal, daughter of Mr. Harry A. Bridenthal, the
result of which meeting was a wedding, and it seems that Mr.
Lauffer's lucky star was in the ascendancy, as he secured a prize
in the matrimonial lottery, and a wife who proved herself a loyal
helpmate in every sense of the term. They have one child, a
bright little girl, Grace Mildred.
After their marriage permit us to say, Mrs. Lauffer took
an extensive hand in helping to gather the Lauffer history as it
now is; for two years they gave of their time and close attention
to the work.
Mr. Lauffer is an active member in the church of which he
is a member, and has creditably filled a number of offices therein.
He is also closely identified with the Sabbath school and is a reg-
ular attendant, seldom missing a day. As a citizen and neighbor
he is respected by all who have the pleasure of his acquaintance,
and that his life and conduct fully come up to the high standard
set by his ancestors is a fact beyond dispute.
It gives us pleasure to be able to speak well of a gentleman
who is perfectly worthy of the highest eulogy we might write.
Stone (Zion's) Church, near Kreidersville, Northampton Co., Pa.
146 Thf Lauffhr History.
to see the strips, and to visit the Old Homestead ; near the
Stone church where he went to see his Uncle Peter, — was very
interesting: and will never be forgotten by the writer, who was
much entertained by his way of stating things — as they happened
about eighty odd years before. Several weeks later the writer
and his wife again visited this Renowned gentleman and were
much pleased with his anecdotes and his remarkable memory.
His daughter, who kept house for him, certainly was a great
comfort to her father.
John N. Lawfer, Allentown, Pa.
•
HOW WE LEARNED OF OUR WESTERN PENNSYLVA-
NIA ANCESTORS.
While sitting- at my desk at my place of business, W. R.
Lawfer & Co., Allentown, Pa., July 5th, 1902, a friend of mine
came to me and handed me the "North American" published at
Philadelphia, July 5th, 1902, containing the picture of My Name
Sake the "Centenarian John Lauffer," of Harrison City,
Pennsylvania. I at once noticed the resemblance of this old gen-
lleman to that of my Grand Father Jacob Lawfer. I took the
paper, covered the names and showed it to my uncle Jacob A.
Lawfer, and asked him, who it looked like. He at once said it
look like his father, who was my Grand Father. Being desirous
of knowing more of onr western relatives of whom I had often
heard my father W. R. Lawfer speak, I addressed a letter to
Rev. Stanley Krebbs, of Greensburg, Pa., formerly of Allentown,
Pa., who informed me that he had a number of "Lawfers" be-
longing to his Reformed congregation. I addressed a letter to
Mr. Joseph A. Lauffer, Greensburg, Pa., who mailed me a histo-
ry of the "Liiuffers," which had been prepared for their gather-
ing, which was held July 4th, 1902. I became very much inte-
rested , which led to more correspondence and was followed by
my visiting Greensburg, Pa., several months later, where we
were furnishing a new theatre for Messrs. Good & Son. I met
the Centenarian John Lauffer at his home in Harrison City in
company with Dr. Charles A. Lauffer, Joseph A. Lauffer and
Lawyer Lauffer. I was very much pleased with the conversa-
tion I had with our old relative, and shall never forget; — when
he was asked by his daughter, who he thought I was, he re-
marked, "Well it looks like a Lauffer and I suppose he is one
of our Eastern relatives." After asking him what kind of people
these Western Pennsylvania Lauffers were, he said, "well they
have always been able to keep out of jail," which remark brought
forth a hearty laugh from all of us. His story of his trip to
Easton, where he drove cattle to Philadelphia, where he went
148 Tup Lauffer History.
corner stone of Adam Deeters land, thence by the same North
Seventy degrees East Seven perches to a corner stone of John
Deeters land, thence by the same South twenty degrees East
seventy one perches and a quarter to a stone set for a corner,
thence North seventy degrees East forty five perches to a stone,
thence South forty four Degrees East one hundred and forty
eight perches to a corner stone, thence by land of David Marsh
eighty two degrees and a half West two hundred and twenty
nine perches to a stone set for a corner, thence South twenty five
degrees East ninety perches to a corner stone of Christian Gu fi-
ne rs land thence by the same South Seventy five degrees West
twelve perches to a corner stone of Simon Cowers land, thence
by the same and Adam flickers land North thirty degrees West
one hundred and seventy five perches to a corner post in the line
of George Nagles land, thence by the same North eightynine
degrees East eighty six perches and a half to a stone, thence
rth eleven degrees and a half West seventy four perches to a
stone, thence North eighty degrees East forty seven perches
nnel a half to a corner post, thence North ten degrees West, thir-
ty seven perches to the first mentioned stone and place of begin-
ning, containing one hundred and fifty two Acres and allowance
of Six p Cent tor roads &ca. With the Appurtenances (which
said Tract of land was surveyed by virtue of an order on appli-
cati< n No. 1997 entered the 22nd of October 1766 by Valentine
.: who by deed dated the n June 1767 conveyed the said
land to Jacob Griesman; who by Deed dated the 24 of March
1768, nveyed the same to the said 1'eter Laffer and his Heirs,
to the use cf the said Peter Laffer Ins Heirs and assigns for
e\e free and clear of all ristrictions anel reservations as to
Mines, Royalties, Ouitrents or otherwise excepting and reserv-
ing only tlie' fifth part of all Gold and Silver Ore for the use of
this Commonwealth, to be delivered at the pit mouth, clear of
all charges.
In witnees whereof His Excellency John Dickinson, Esq.,
president of the Supreme Executive Council hath hereto set his
hand, and caused the State Seal to be hereunto affixed in Coun-
cil, the thirtieth day of November, in the year of our Lord one
The Lauffer History. 149
thousand seven hundred and eighty two; and of the Common-
wealth the Seventh.
Attest, JOHN DICKINSON (Seal)
T. Matlack. Secy. Seal of the State of Pennsylvania.
While searching the Archives of the Pennsylvania Historic-
al Society, 13th and Locust, Philadelphia, we discovered the
name of Peter Laufer :
\\ ills of Northampton County, Page 739. We learn that
the executors of the Estate of David Mersch were George Hersch
and Peter Lafrer.
hi Pennsylvania Archives Vol. 19, Third series, Page 140,
under Federal Taxes of Moore Twp., Northampton Co., for
1785, we learn that Peter Laffer owned 150 acres of land, two
horses, two cattle, and no sheep. His tax was 15 shillings, 5
pence.
Grandmother Scholl tells us that her father ( Peter Laufer
Jr.) and grandfather (Peter Laufer, the shoemaker,) were not
large men but squarely built, solid men weighing about 160 and
170 pounds. She remembers how her grandfather wound up
the clock every morning when he got up, before coming to break-
fast. One morning he was late in coming to breakfast. His son
went to see why he did not come. He found him unable to talk,
lying in bed. He motioned to his son to go to wind the clock.
He laid sick in bed for a week. It was harvest time. And as he
lay sick in bed, his granddaughter (Grand mother Scholl) with
a fly brush made of paper, kept the flies from him, and gave him
drinks. The men and women were all at work in the harvest
fields. She thinks she was about eight years old when she thus
cared for iier grandfather.
She remembers her grandfather's shoemaker bench. She
was around when he made shoes. She would meddle with his
tools, and she recalls his telling her to let things alone.
Grandmother Scholl remembers that the father of her grand-
father was Christian Laufer. And she as well as Nathan of
Broadheadsville, and Jacob P. Laufer of the Old Homestead,
have it bv tradition that Father Christian and his sons and
150 Thk Laufff.r History.
daughters went westward to near Pittsburg, and that Peter re-
mained East.
Kleppinger's Fort was located near Petersville Church, east
from the Lanier Homestead. Families went to this or other
nearby forts every night, for in those days people were stolen
1 \ the Indians and houses were burned.
Grandmother Scholl remembers the spinning, turning the
.-{'inning wheel or reel a whole day, when you would like to
1 ride, or go fishing, was an evil of the olden day. The
Laufers sent their yarn to the weavers and their cloth to the
fullers. In fulling the cloth, she recalls that soap was used.
The cloth was then colored brown. When thus dyed it made fine
cloth for dresses.
Her father was very fond of bees, of which he had about
seventy. He wove basket hives out of straw for them. Deiter
his neighbor, had eight}-. Both tried to reach one hundred. It
was said in those days that a person could not have one hundred
bees together. As their number increased, they commenced go-
ing back, neitner reached one hundred. In those days cane
sugar was not used by the settlers, and beet sugar had not been
introduced. For sweet, they were dependant upon honey, which
was used freely for all purposes.
They rendered their honey in a big iron kettle. They made
it hot and strained it out through a colander. The honey thus
rendered was set aside in crocks. The part that did not go
through the colander, was returned to the kettle. Water was
added and it was boiled. It was again put through the colander.
The nitrate was put in a keg or barrel and set aside to ferment.
The part that remained in the colander this second time, was
returned to the kettle and purified as wax. They had a way of
gathering the wax as follows : as the water boiled the wax came
to the surface ; the hands were made wet in cold water and placed
on the surface of the water, which caused the wax to adhere
to the fingers. It was then rubbed off the hands and the hands
again dipped in cold water.
The filtrate in the keg would ripen in a year's time. It made
a drink much relished by her father and grand father, says
Jacob P. Laufer, owne.1 of the "Old Ho.neittad."
Mrs. Jacob P. Laufer, nee Sarah Siltie^.
The Lauffer History. 151
Grandmother Scholl. In her words it was "schr stark." The
German name for this drink is Meticulum.
We are informed that Peter Laufer made shoes for Wash-
ington's army, during the three years of his enlistment. He was
a shoemaker by trade, and added to this fact, he was too small
to bear arms, being below the average in stature. Also, at a time
when the Southern and New England Colonies gave nothing to
support the Continental Government, for the prosecution of the
war for Independence, he was one of the Pennsylvania German
farmers that contributed to his utmost to the success of Liberty's
cause.
The family of Peter Laufer consisted of three sons and five
daughters. His wife's name was Magdalena Susanna Grosher.
1 Peter Jr.
2 Adam.
3 Jacob.
1 Elizabeth.
2 Catherine.
3 Susanna. .
4. Maria.
5 Rachel.
Peter Laufer Jr., son of Peter, the shoemaker, the son of
Christian, the Pioneer, was born June 25, 1785. He was married
to Eva Bush, who died at the age of 84. He died Aug. 29, 1855.
Both are interred at Stone church.
Four children, Peter, Jacob, Maria and Catherine.
I. Peter Laufer III., son of Peter Jr., son of Peter, the shoe-
maker, son of Christian, the Pioneer, was bom Mar. 10, 1813.
Married to Man- Ann Kleppinger. Died Jan. 15, 1893. He left
one child, Jacob P. Lauffer, born Jan. 14, 1842. Jacob P. owns
the Old Homestead, by direct succession from Peter Laufer, the
son of Christian, the Pioneer. It is through his active coope-
ration that we have secured much of the Peter Laufer data, as
presented in this section. He was married in 1863 to Sarah
Silfies, by Rev. A. Fox. His wife was born Sept. 13, 1839. Three
children.
i52 The Lavffkr History.
| i | Valeria Laufer, born Aug. 20. [865. Married in 1883 to
Milton F. Danner (born Apr. 2, i860, died Sept. 4. 1892), by
Rev. Mabry.
Three children. iai (harks P. Danner, born Oct. 4, 1883.
Petersville, la. .Married in 1901, to Sadie C. Bilheimer( born
Vug. 26, [884), by Rev. II. P. Krider. Two children. \"crna L.
Danner, born Aug. 17. 1901 and Marvin F. Danner, born June
1904. (bi Howard S. Danner, of Catasauqqua, Pa., born
b. r6, [886. (c) Clara M. Danner, born May 7. 1888. Married
in 1904 to Frank M. Solt, of Patersville, Pa., by Rev. J. Andrews.
(2i Elmira X. Laufer, daughter of Jacob P., born Jan. 24,
1 868, married to Cyrus C. Anthony, of Minichs, Lehigh Co.,, Pa.
Seven children. Emma S. Anthony, born Dec. 25, 1887. Frank
J. Anthony, born June 21, 1889. Florence M. Anthony, born
Aug. 27, 1891. Preston P. Anthony, born Aug. 31, 1895. Carrie
J. Anthony, born Sept. 28, 1899. Manerva H. Anthony, born
Oct. 28, 1002. Warren R. Anthony, born Oct. 5, 1904.
(3) Cora M. A. Lauffer, daughter of Jacob P., born Aug.
10, 1874, married to Henry E. Smith, (born Nov. 23, 1866) by
Rev. Mabry, Sigfreid, Pa., R. F. D. 3. Eight children. Sarah S.
Smith, born June 2, 1893. Annie E. Smith, born Sept. II, 1894.
Mabel M. Smith, born July 29, 1897. Lilly H. Smith, born Sept.
1, 1898. Howard H. Smith, born June 27, 1895, died aged 21
days. Ella E. Smith, born Oct. 14, 1899. Jacob H. Smith, born
Dec. 5, 1900. Rosa B. Smith, born Oct. 9, 1902.
II. Jacob Laufer, son of Peter Laufer Jr., son of Peter, the
shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Aug. 10, 1822.
Single. He was a farmer by occupation. Died Apr. 26, 1845,
aged 22 years, 8 months, 16 days.
IIT. Maria Laufer, daughter of Peter, son of Peter, the
shoemaker, the son of Christian, the Pioneer, born Aug. 25, 1815,
died Dec. 5, 1S54. Married May 2y, 1835 to Paul Kleppinger.
Eleven children.
i i 1 William H. Kleppinger, born Dec. 20, 1835, Nazerath,
Pa.
(2) Sarah Klepinger, born Apr. 3, 1838; died Mar. 18, i860.
J \Mi:s SCHOLL.
Mrs. James Scholl, nee Catharine Laufer.
The Lauffer History. 153
(3) Magdalena Kleppinger, born July 29, 1839. 308 Bow-
ery St., Akron, Ohio.
(4) John Jacob F. Kleppinger, born Sept. 9, 1840. Died Dec.
24, 190 1.
(5) Christiana E. Kleppinger, born Mar. 3, 1842. Nazareth,
Pa.
(6) Emma Louisa Kleppinger, born Oct. 6, 1843, Nazareth,
Pa.
(7) Amandus F. Kleppinger, born Jan. 7, 1847, died Nov. 1,
1859-
(8") Marv Jane Kleppinger, born Jan. 20, 1849. Nazareth,
Pa.
(9) Martin F. Kleppinger, born Oct. 1, 1850.
(10) Ellen C. Kleppinger, born Jan. 4, 1853.
(11) Tilghman H. Kleppinger, born Oct. 15, 1854.
X<; data of marriages and of grandchildren received.
IV. Catharine Laufer, daughter of Peter Laufer Jr., and Eva
Bush, grand daughter of Peter Laufer, the Revolutionary Shoe-
maker. Catharine Laufer was born June 21, 1820. Married
Nov. 22, 1840 to James Scholl, of Klecknersville, Pa. She at pre-
sent makes her home with her daughter, Ellen (Mrs. A. C.
Young), 30 East Walnut Lane, Germantown, Philadelphia. Se-
ven children.
(1) Christina Elizabeth Schall, born Jan. 24, 1841. Married
Feb. 6, 1866, to Jacob Schall, of Siegfried, Pa., by Rev. David
Kuhns. One daughter, Ellen J. Schall, born Mar. 26, 1867, mar-
ried Dec. 26, 1887, to J. F. Knecht, of Moorestown, Pa., died
May 6, 1900. Married again Dec. 2"j, 1903 to G. J. Newhart,
of Siegfried, Pa.
(2) Hannah Elizabeth Scholl, born Sept. 30, 1842. Mar-
ried Feb. 10, 1867 to Rudolph Edelman, of Bath, Pa., by Rev.
E. A. Fox. Three children, (a) Elmer E. Edelman, born June
2j, 1871. Married to Anna Rabe. Bath, Pa. (b) Cora A. Edel-
man, born May 6, 1875. Married to John Remaly, of Nazareth,
Pa. (c) Nama E. Edelman, born Nov. 29, 1878, married to Frank
Rismiller, of Stockcrtcwn, Pa.
154 The Lauffer History.
i 3 i James Henry Scholl, horn July 28, 1844, married Oct.
1, 1870 In Ellen E. Meyer, by Rev. David Kuntz.
(41 Sarah Louisa Scholl. horn Jan. 26, 1846. Married Aug.
16, 18O3, to Stephen Hagenbuch, (died June 9, 1905, aged 55
years), by Rev. Reinecke. Bath, Pa., R. F. D. hive children,
(a) Mallisa Hagenbuch, born Jan. 23. 1864, married in 1883,
to James Remaly, of Bethlehem, Pa. (b) Eugene Hagenbuch,
born Sept. 19, 1865, married May 28, 1892, to Alice Fehnel, Bath,
Pa., R. F. D. (c) Mary Hagenbuch. born Feb. 16. 1868, married
Dec. 24. 1889 to Charles Kochcr. of Bath. Pa. R. F. D. (d) Wil-
liam Hagenbuch, horn Mar. 10, 1872, died Sept. 2, 1873. In-
terred at Moorestown, Pa. (d) Eva Hagenbuch, born Mar. 15.
1878. Died Sept. 14, 1879. Interred at Moorestown, Pa.
(5) Mary Jane Scholl, born Dec. 28. 1847, died Mar. I,
1850. Interred at Moorestown. Pa.
(6) Amelia Rebecca Scholl, born Aug. 20, 1849. Married
June 1874 to Franklin S. Scholl, by Rev. R. B. Kistler, Bath, Pa.
R. F. I). !.
(7) Ellen Catherine Scholl, born Sept. 16. 1858. Married
Dec. 28, 1879, to Asry C. Young, by Rev. W. J. Andres. Four
children. Amy May Young, born May 1, 1880. Carrie Alice
Young, horn Nov. 27. 1884. William Henry Young, born Feb. 8,
1887, died Feb. 10, 1887. Interred at Moorestown Graveyard. Ro-
bert James Young, born June 15, 1890. A. C. Young was cashier
of tlie First National Bank, Pen Argyl, Fa. In 1904 he became
Treasurer of the Franklin Trust Co.. of Phila. It was at his
home in Pen Argyl, that the Peter Lanier branch of the Laufer
family was organized.
ADAM LAUFER.
Adam Laufer, the second son of Peter, the shoemaker, the son
of Christian, the Pioneer, was born in the year 1790. Fie was
married to Elizabeth Koehler. He moved from Northampton
Co., into Monroe Co., near Bi tdhcadsville. Lie was the father
of eight children.
I. Joseph Laufer, born Sept. 13. 18 16. Married Apr. 28,
1839, to Elizabeth Frantz, by Rev. Decker. Ten children.
(i) James Laufer, born Apr. 2.1. i°40. Died July 10, 1842.
• ,
4f£fk 0&l&i
jk i
Charles Laufer, son of Adam Laufer.
Mrs. Ch uu.h> Lai i er.
• •
The Lauffer History. 155
(2) William Laufer, born Oct. 29, 1841, married in 1870
to Florence Bradley. Mclntyre, Iowa. Three children. Clarence,
Edwin and Lizzie.
(3) Mary Ann Laufer, born Nov. 14, 1843. Married July
8, 1863 to S. G. Tyrrell, of Riceville, Iowa. Eight children, (a)
Minnie, four children, (b) Oscar, two children, (c) Viola, mar-
ried to John Wing, two children, Forda and Vera, (d) Alda,
one child, (e) Cora, married to Hunter, one child, (f) George
Tyrell is dead, (g) Willard. (h) Florence, two children.
(4) Freeman Laufer, born Aug. 8, 1845. Married June 16,
1 868, to Vinia Staley, of Stockton, 111. Two sons and three
daughters, (a) Myron Laufer, two children, Merrill and Helen,
(b) Cassie Laufer, married to George D. Paul, of Mt. Carrel,
111. One daughter, Bertha, (c) Wallace Laufer, one son, Leo.
(d) Mabel Laufer, married to Fred. Allanson, of Stockton, 111.
One son, Freeman, (e) Edna Laufer.
(5) Julia A. Laufer, born Dec. 14, 1846, married in Nov.
1866, to Daniel Shearer. Died Oct. 20, 1884. Interred at Mill-
town, South Dakota. Four children (a) Addie, four children,
(b) George, one child, (c) Vestna, a trained nurse in Rockford,
111.
(6) Lucinda Laufer, born Aug. 4, 1848. Married Oct. 8,
1865 to J. M. Blair, of Liberal, Mo. Four children, (a) Clarence,
four children, (b) Ezra) (c) Lizzie, (d) Edna.
(7) Lucy A. Laufer, born June 19, 1853. Married Dec. 25,
1871 to E. W. Gates, of Stockton, 111. Four children, (a) Delna
married to Edward Colver, of Freeport, 111. (b) Edith, married
to Edward Auman. One child, Gladys, (c) Clarence, (d) Loyal.
(8) Hannah E. LaufTer, born Oct. 28, 1855. Died July 2^,
1879. Interred at Milltown, S. Dak.
(9) Josiah Laufer, born Mar. 3, 1858. Died Oct. 28, 1875.
Interred at Ward's Grove, 111.
(10) George H. Laufer, born Mar. 31, 1865. Died Aug. 25,
1865. Interred at Wards Grove, 111.
II. Charles Laufer, son of Adam Laufer, son of Peter, the
shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Jan. 10, 1818.
156 The Laupfer History.
Married in Jan. 1842, to Catherine Slmpp. He died Jan. 23.
1902, aged 84 years. 13 days. Interred at Broadheadsville, Mon-
roe Co.. Pa. His wife was horn Aug. 17. 1822 and died Aug. 17,
1880 Ag< 1 04 years. Nine children.
( 1 1 Anna Laufer, horn June 2. 1843. married Dec. 26,
1804. to John Wagner, of Pen Argyl, Pa. Nine children. George
S.j Robert A.. Eugene, Charles, Joseph, Nathan, Infant,' Katy
ami Lizzie J. Wagner.
(2) Jacob Laufer, horn Nov. 30. 1844, married Sept. 22.
1867, to Elizabeth Brong, Lehighton, Pa.
1 I) Nathan Lauffer, horn Oct. 15. [846. Married July 27.
1873, to Angcline Weiss, by Rev. I). E. Schredler. Three chil-
dren, (a) Calvin W. Laufer. horn Apr. 6. 1874. Married Nov.
28, 1895. to Ellen Metzgar.. Rev. Calvin W. Laufer, is pastor
of the Steinway Reformed Church. Steinway, Long Island City.
X. V. One son, Edward Laufer. (b) Mary Jane Laufer. born
\'>v. 22, [875, married Jan. 1. 1901. to Prof. Geo. B. Kunkle, of
Pen Argyl, Pa. Two sons. Russel, deceased, and Brinton L.
Kunkle, ],<-rv. Aug. 9, 1903. (c) Anson E. Laufer, born Mar. 16,
1890, of Broadheadsville, Pa.
141 Emaline Laufer. horn Apr. 8, 1848, died Aug. 25. 1893.
Interred at Broadheadsville, Pa. Wife of David A. Everitt. Six
childrei . Two still living, Ellen and Lizzie J. Everitt.
(5) George Laufer, horn May 8, 1850, married June 14. 1S71.
to Amanda Weiss, by Rev. I). E. Schoedler. Light children, (a)
Harry Laufer, horn Sept. 21, 1871, married Aug. 14. 1892, to
ss Kunkle, P. O. Lehighton, Pa. Three children. Roy B. Lau-
. horn Jan. 26, [893, died Feb. 10. [893. Arlina May Laufer,
horn Sept. 30, 1895. Norwood G. Laufer. born Feb. 2^, 1899. (b)
Phoebe Laufer, horn Apr. 10, 1873. married Nov. 29, 1894, to
Charles VV. Miller. Two children. George Xoble Miller, horn
Sept. 18, 1896, died Nov. 2, 1896. Viola Evelyn Miller, born
Sept. 22, 1903. (c) Anna Laufer, born Nov. 7, 1874. (d) Lil-
!ie Laufer. born Sept. 8, 1876, died May 18, 1877. (e) Robert
Laufer. Lorn May 4, 1878. married Aug. 18, 1896, to Miss Ser-
fass. Silk weaver at Lehighton. Pa. Two children. Esther Fern
Laufer. born Nov. 27, 1897 and Pa • Th ' a Laufer, born
Nathan Laufer, son of Charles Laufer.
Mrs. Nathan Laufer.
THE
•'„
Rev. ( ' \i vi\ \V. L u 11:1;,
Pastor Firsl Presbyterian Church, Hoboken, X. J.
Mrs. J. J Shaker, daughter of Charles Laufer.
Charles A. Lawfer, Son of Charles Laufer.
The Lauffer History. 157
Jan. 15, 1000. (f) Lena Laufer, born Nov. 26, 1879, married
Sept. 25, 1896, to Richard S. Chynoweth, of Roselle, N. J. Two
children. Searle Romain, born Apr. 4, 1897 and Marvin Richard,
born Apr. 16, 1899. (g) Harvy T. Laufer, born Oct. 20, 1892.
(h) Bessie May Laufer, born Sept. 22, 1891.
(6) Amanda Laufer, sixth in the family of Charles Laufer,
son of Adam, son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the
Pioneer. Born Jan. 20, 1854, married Dec. 8, 1877. to Jeremiah
Shafer, of Allentovvn, Pa.
(7) Joseph Laufer, son of Charles, was born Nov. 16,
1856, married May 6, 1883, to Alice Greenamoyer, by Rev. T. A.
Huber. Three children, (a) Lizie Jane Laufer, born Nov. 22,
1883. Married Nov. 26, 1903, to Clayton Fetheman, of Strouds-
burg, Pa. (b) Anna Katheryne Laufer, born Sept. 12, 1885. (c)
Mae Augusta Laufer. born Sept. 21, 1888. Broadheadsville, Pa.
(8) Charles A. Laufer, the photographer, of Allentown, Pa.
(9) Louina Laufer, born Nov. 3, 1858, died Oct. 10, 1870.
III. Samuel Laufer, son of Adam, son of Peter, the shoe-
maker, son of Christian, the Pioneer. Born Nov. 26, 1819, mar-
ried in 1842 to Elizabeth Andrew (born Apr. 10, 1821, died Oct.
3, 1881, interred in Conyngham. Luzerne Co., Pa.) Samuel Lauf-
er, died July 25, 1876, in the same place. Four children:
(1) Peter Laufer, born Nov. 21, 1842. Married to Rebecca
Billheimer. Sugarloaf, Luzerne Co., Pa.
(2) Mariah Laufer, born May 28, 1844. Died Sept. 10, 1892.
(3) Lucy Laufer, born July 20, 1846. Married to Frank
Keck, 76 Lennington St., Trenton, N. J.
(4) William H. Laufer, born Mar. 8, 1855. P. O. Horton,
Brown Co., Kansas.
IV. Peter Laufer, son of Adam Laufer, son of Peter, the
shoemaker, son of Christian, die Pioneer, was born Jan. 29,
1822. Married to Mary Hufsmith (born Aug. 6, 1823, died Mar.
29, 1885). Peter Laufer died May 27, 1898, aged 76 years, three
months, 28 days. He resided at Broadheadsville, Monroe Co., Pa.
Five children.
158 The Laufper History.
(1) Sarah A. Laufer, born Aug. 18, 1845, married Aug. 18,
1867, to Reuben Bitting, by Rev. Geo. B. Dechant, 4th & Birch
St., So. Bethlehem, Pa. Four children.
(a) Oliver F. Bitting, born Oct. 19, 1873, married to Matil-
da Castner, 138 Albert St., Steinway, Long Island City, N. Y.
(b) George Bitting, born Feb. 11, 1869, died Aug. 1870. Interred
at Blue Church, Coopersburg, Pa. (c) Mary Bitting, born Jan. 1,
1875, married to Harry Rhoad, of Chestnut St., South Bethlehem,
Pa., (d) Chas. R. Bitting, born Mar. 5, 1887, 4th & Birch St., So.
Bethlehem, Pa.
(2) Edwin Laufer, of So. Bethlehem, Pa., born 1848, mar-
ried in 1867. to Catherine Kresge, (died in 1876), by Rev. Geo.
B. Decker. Three children by this marriage, (a) Francis R. Lau-
fer, of Lebanon, Pa., born in 1868. (b) Wilson P. Laufer, of
Camden, N. J. Two children, (c) Jennie Laufer, born Jan. 10,
1869, married Feb. 1, 1893, to Rev. Edgar Campbell, of Lansdale,
Pa., by Rev. H. S. Fisher. Three children. Helen Margaret
Campbell, born Dec. 20, 1894, died Jan. 29, 1900, interred at
Phoenixville, Pa. Edgar Laufer Campbell, born June 12, 1896.
Paul Frederick Campbell, born Mar. 6, 1901.
Edwin Laufer, was again married Apr. 24, 1878, to Anna-
bella Boyer (died in 1903). Three children, (a) Joseph E. Lau-
fer, born in 1879. (b) Frederick W. Laufer, of Philadelphia, born
in 1880. (c) Helen E. Laufer, born in 1887.
(3) Milton Laufer, proprietor of the Wyandotte Hotel, So.
Bethlehem, Pa., was born Feb. 9, 1852. He was married in 1876
to Sarah E. Groman, by Rev. N. Z. Snyder and again in 1900 to
Sadie E. Klotz, by Rev. David Scherier. Two children by the
first marriage and two by the second, (a) Howard R. Laufer,
born Sept. 14, 1879, married Apr. 30, 1902, to Irene L. Munich,
by Rev. G. H. Trull. One child. Robert M. Laufer, born Dec. 7,
1903. (b) Frank P. Laufer, born May 1, 1882. (c) Harry E.
Laufer, born Feb. 2, 1902. Marie E. R. Laufer, born Mar. 11,
1903.
(4) Julia Laufer, daughter of Peter Laufer, son of Adam,
son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer. Bora
Milton Laufek,
Proprietor, Hotel VVvandotte.
Henry Laufer.
Mrs. Hexky Laufer.
■
Franklin Laufer, Dec'd, son of Henry Laufei.
.
Stewart Laufer, Son of Henry.
,
Mbs. Dr. Wolf, nee Ellen Laufer, daughter of Henry.
Mrs. John Hanky, nee Alice Laifer.
Miss Emma Laufer, daughter of Henry Laufer.
The Lauffer History. 159
May 25, 1857, married to Edwin G. Shaffer, of Broadheadsville,
Pa. Three children :
(a) Flora Mae Shaffer, born Apr. 12, 1880, married to Geo.
K. Halteman, of Wind Gap, Pa., one son, Austin Halteman.
(b) George Emery Shaffer, born Oct. 28, 1883. (c) Mary
Lottie Shaffer, born Mar. 25, 1884.
(5) Lena Laufer, married to William Biel (born Jan. 20,
1847). Lena Laufer was born Jan. 10, 1850, died June 12, 1888.
To them were born eight children.
(a) Edwin P. Biel, born Dec. 3, 1871. Married to Ellen
Kidd (born Jan. 20, 1865).
(b) Harvy F. Biel, born March 17, 1873. Married to Mary
Lee, born June 30, 1868.
(c) Agnes J. Biel, born Apr. 11, 1875. Married to Calvin
Miller (born Dec. 8, 1877). Two children, Clifford E. Miller,
born Feb. 28, 1898, and Stewart W. Miller, born Sept. 8, 1899.
(d) Maine A. Biel, born June 18, 1877. Married to N. New-
hard (born Apr. 16, 1872). Six children.
Stanley A. Newhard, born Apr. 27, 1896.
Elwood S. Newhard, born Nov. 12, 1897.
Leota G. Newhard, born Jan. 4, 1899.
Mary M. Newhard, born June 2, 1900. Died Aug. 31, 1900.
Isma I. Newhard, born Jan. 31, 1902. Died May 31, 1902.
Dora R. Newhard, born June 21, 1903.
(e) William E. Biel, born May 24, 1879. (f) Clara E. Biel,
born Jan. 21, 1881. Married to Daniel Pretorius (born Mar. 6,
1877). One child. Helen Pretorius, born May 27, 1903. Died
Aug. 1903. (g) Sallie A. Biel, born Jan. 30, 1883. (h) Elmer M.
Biel, born Nov. 18, 1885. (i) Infant born June 12, 1888, died
June 12, 1888.
V. Henry I^aufer, born July 30, 1825. Married to Lovina
Huf smith (born Aug. 12. 1826, died Dec 4, 1875), Saylorsburg,
Pa. Six children. (1) Anna L. Laufer, born Feb. 18, 1850, died
Sept. 5, 1852. (2) Franklin Laufer, born Nov. 3, 1852, died June
8, 1881. Interred at Bethlehem, Pa. (3) Steward Laufer, bora
160 The Lauffer HlSTOkY.
Sept. 2, 1855, married to Minnie Stucker. Nazareth, Pa. Two
children. (4) Emma L. Lam' r, irn Nov. 26. 1857, married to
Geo. Fable, of Saylorsburg, Pa. Five children,. (5) Alice Laufer,
born Nov. 22. 1864, Saylorsburg, Pa. (6) Ellen Laufer, born
Aug-. 5, 1869. Married to Dr. Wolfe. Two children.
VI. Jonas Laufer, son of Adam, son of Peter, the shoemaker,
son of Christian, the Pioneer. Jonas L. was born May 25, 1828,
married in Apr. 29, 1855. to Polly Kresge. Three children, (a)
Tilgham Laufer, born Oct. 2, 1858, 1007 Gibbon St., Pittsburg,
Pa. (b) Alvin Laufer, burn Sept. 7. i860, married Mar. 4, 1890,
to Clara M. Flyt. P. O. BroadheadsviUe, Pa. (c) Ella E. Laufer,
born May 16, 1864, married in fall of 1891, to Charles H. Lerch,
College Hill, Easton, Pa., Lerch's Preparatory School.
YII. Phoebe Laufer, daughter of Adam Laufer, was born
Feb. 22, 1833. Married to Isaac Rodenbach, of BroadheadsviUe,
Pa. Two sons and three daughters. (1) Oscar Rodenbach, of
BroadheadsviUe. (2) Jeremiah Rodenbach, of Deposit, N. Y.
The daughters are, Lizzie, Hannah and Mary.
VIII. Mary Laufer, daughter of Adam Laufer, was born
Aug. 1, 1835, married to Amos Shupp. Two children, died in
infancy.
Summary of the Adam Laufer connection, as per data of
Nathan Laufer, of BroadheadsviUe, 1904.
Six sons and two daughters.
Thirty-six grandchildren.
94 great grand children.
64 great, great grandchildren.
We are indebted to the intelligent interest of Nathan Laufer,
for much of the data presented in this section.
Jacob Laufer, the youngest son of Peter, the shoemaker,
son of Christian, the Pioneer. This branch of the family is other-
wise known as the William R. Lawfer section, so named from
his illustrious grandson.
Jacob Laufer, was the youngest son of Peter, the Revolu-
tionary shoemaker. He was married to Elizabeth Strauss and
Ai.vin Laufek, Son of Jonas l-auter.
Mrs. Ai.vin Laufer.
Mjw. Amos SftPPP ami dahghter, !<lrr'd I, nee Mary
Lacfer, daughter of Adam.
The Lauffkr History. 161
two years after this marriage, he died of Pneumonia. A son
born three months after his death, was his only descendant. He
died aged 28 years, and was interred in the cemetery at Old
Stone church. A temporary slab was erected and the exact date
of his death has not been obtainable. His wife, Elizabeth Strauss,
(also buried at Old Stone Church), was later married to Jacob
Shurt, by whom she had a large family.
Jacob Lawfer, the son -of Jacob Laufer, son of Peter, the
Revolutionary shoemaker, was born Nov. 1, 1814. Married Oct.
12, 1834, to Leah Steckel, died May 22, 1895. He was a prosper-
ous farmer of Northampton County, Pa. Three children.
I. William Richard Laufer, born Aug. 5, 1838. Married Nov.
15, 1857, to Hannah Kleppinger, by Rev. Cyrus Becker. Died
Sept. 11, 1900. Four children.
(a) Jacob Henry Lawfer, born Aug. 24, 1858. Married Aug.
17, 1882, to Lilly S. Dannenhuer, by Rev. R. A. Hill, Allentown,
Pa. Five children.
Lillie Mabel Lawfer, born Sept. 13, 1883.
William Levan Lawfer, born Oct. 13, 1888.
Mirian E. Lawfer, born Dec. 13, 1890.
Stanley E. Lawfer, born July 4, 1892.
Ruth A. Lawfer, born Oct. 12, 1893.
(b) John N. Lawfer, born Feb. 9, i860. Married Dec. 1,
1 88 1, to Irene C. Saeger, by Rev. Reuben Hill, Allentown, Pa.
Five children.
Emily M. Lawfer, born Oct. 27, 1882.
Charles H. Lawfer, born June 23, 1886. Died Aug. 8, 1887.
Interred in Union Cemetery, Allentown, Pa.
Harold S. Lawfer, born Jan. 17, 1889.
William R. Lawfer, born June 17, 1891.
Marian S. Lawfer, born Feb. 14, 1896. Died Sept 10,
1896. Interred in Union Cemetery Allentown, Pa.
(c) Alvin W. Lawfer, third son of William R. Lawfer, born
Oct 23, 1863. Married May 20, 1888, to Ida V. Engleman, by
Dr. S. G. Wagner, Allentown, Pa.
i6fi Thk Lauffer History.
(d) Annie Lawfer, bom Oct 15, 1873. Married Oct 23,
X900, to Edward H. Wetherhold, by Rev. Geo. W. Richards. 313
North Sixth St., Allentown, Pa, Two children.
William E. Wetherhold, born Aug. 14, 1901.
John E. Wetherhold, born Oct. 14, 1902.
II. Jacob A. Lawfer, second son of Jacob Lawfer, and bro-
ther of William R. Lawfer, was born Oct. 8, 1841. Married Feb.
4, 1868, to Elizabeth Scholl (died Oct. 28, 1905), by Rev. Robt
A. Litzenberger. 314 N. Sixth St., Allentown, Pa. Three chil-
dren.
(a) Nama A. Lawfer, born Aug. 12, 1868, married May 9,
1889, to Joseph Frederick, of Allentown, Pa. ;
(b) Alfred W. Lawfer, born July 6, 1876, married Sept. 25,
1900 to Hannah Bellford, 314 N. Sixth St., Allentown, Pa. One
child. Edward Russell Lawfer, born June 12, 1902.
(c) Edward J. Lawfer, born June 12, 1883.
III. Marian Elizabeth Lawfer, daughter of Jacob Lawfer,
and sister of W. R. Lawfer, was born Aug. 14, 1843, married
Nov. 29, 1869, to William H. Rice, of Moorestown, Northampton
Co., Pa. Four children.
(a) Robert E. Rice, born Mar. 20, 1870, married Sept. 8,
1896, to Carrie K. Bropst, by Rev. Steinhauser. So. Bethlehem,
Pa. Four children.
William B. Rice, born Feb. 3, 1897.
John H. Rice, born Sept. 16, 1899.
Murk S. Rice, born Dec. 28, 1900.
Dorothy M. Rice, born Sept. 20, 1902.
^b) Carrie N. Rice, born Mar. 25, 1872. Died Aug. 8, 1872.
Interred at Salem's Church, Moorestown, Pa.
(c) Minnie L. Rice, Moorestown, Pa., bornMay 26, 1879.
(d) George A. Rice, Moorestown, Pa., born May 11, 1881.
Wm. R. LAWFER.
The central figure among the eastern descendants of Chris-
tian Lauffer, the Pioneer, is the late Wm. R. Lawfer, of Allen-
town. The day he was buried, all the stores of that city closed
Wm. K. Lawfer. the Allentown Merchant.
Mrs, Wm. i;. Lai ffer, nee Hannah Klkppingeb.
1
Fori; i e\eratioks,— W. K. Lawfer, W. LeVan Lawfer, J. H. Lawfer,
Jacob Lawfer, Sr.
-
The Lauffer History. 163
their doors, a mark of respect shown to no other citizen of Allen-
town.
"The Lehigh Register", of Allentown, Pa., under date of
Sept. 11, 1900, published a character sketch of Wm. R. Lawfer,
which we reproduce in full.
We follow it with a biographical sketch of his son, John N.
Lawfer, taken from Lehigh Valley biographies.
The death of William R. Lawfer removes a man who for
upwards of thirty years was prominently identified with every-
thing that tended toward the material and industrial progress and
advancement of this city. One of its foremost merchants, he was
ever keenly alive to everything that contributed to the city's
welfare and prosperity. And in all this he was never a mere neg-
ative factor; a man who simply stood afar off and reaped where
others sowed. He contributed amply from his resources and his
advice was always eagerly sought and followed. He early saw
the possibilities for shrewd financial investments in this city and
with his trained foresight, shrewd commonsense and business
perspicacity he forecasted the direction of the city's development
and expansion and he backed his faith with his money and to
him more than to anyone else the development of the northern
part of Allentown in the vicinity of the old fair grounds is due.
His courage and energy inaugarated a movement and set a pace
which has been followed since by scores of others who reaped
rich harvests where he first led the way.
The man may be forgotten, but the part he played in the ex-
pansion of this city will long be remembered, and one of its most
beautiful sections, adorned with handsome and cosy residences,
will ever stand a monument to his courage, faith and energy. He
advanced where others faltered ; he had faith where others doubt-
ed, and he had zeal, where others flagged.
As a mercantile man his fame was by no means local. Al-
though much of the burden of the work of directing the affairs
of his vast etablishment, one of the largest in the Lehigh Valley,
was taken off his shoulders during the later years of his life by
his sons and brothers, yet he was daily in his office guiding,
164 Thf. Latffer History.
advising and directing its intricate affairs with a clear head and
a steady hand. He started in business in a small way, but he
kept pace with the spirit of the age and never lagged behind. En-
terprising, but never rash, daring but never reckless, and steer-
ing clear of all those devices and treacherous shoals which point
the way to sudden riches only to end in hopeless disaster, and
conducting his business on sound, safe and conservative methods,
he lived to see himself at the head of one of the largest estab-
lishments of its kind in Eastern Pennsylvania.
He was a many-sided man and he had deep religious con-
victions. In furthering the cause of his faith he showed the same
zeal, devotion and singleness of purpose which always charac-
terized him in whatsoever he undertook. In his death the Re-
formed Church sustains a heavy loss and he will be keenly missed
in the councils of that denomination. He was not a christian who
only gave lip service, but his purse kept pace with his counsel
and his money gave the stamp of approval to what his con-
science advised.
An institution dear to his heart was Bethany Orphans' Home
at Womclsdorf. He was one of its trustees and was one of its
Board of Managers. So highly were his labors appreciated by
his colleagues that at the recent celebration of Orphans' Home
Day they sent a special message of sympathy, appreciation and
regard to their late co-worker. Perhaps nothing in Mr. Lawfer's
long and active career gave him so much pleasure and gratifica-
tion as that message of esteem and remembrance. He was one
of the pillars of the institution and the orginator in this section
of those annual excursions to the home, which brought thousands
of people in contact with this noble specimen of christian charity
and philantrophy on the part of the Reformed Church, and which
brought thousands of dollars into the treasury of the institution.
He was also greatly interested in our local Young Men's Chris-
tian Association.
Always a man of strong and vigorous physique, which nei-
ther age nor the mnaifold duties and cares inseparable from his
large business seemed able to impair, the sudden death of his wife,
several years ago, was a blow from which he never recovered.
John N. Lawker, Merchant, Allentown, Pa.
/
/
.
>.
■
•-
".|<>n.\ X. 1,vwkek ami Family, Emily M. Lawfer, Harqlp S, Lawfer,
W'm. K Lawfer."
The Latjffer History. 165
From that time on his physical powers commenced to wane and
he never afterwards was the same man.
In his domestic and social relations he fulfilled all the re-
quirements of a loving husband and a kind and indulgent father
and a neighbor and citizen who never forfeited the respect and
esteem of his fellow citizens. He was liberal in his contributions
to charity, although unostentatious in all his philanthropic work.
He was successful because he deserved success. Honest and up-
right in all his dealings, a keen judge of men and motives, a mer-
chant of unswerving integrity and upright in his walk in the com-
munity in which he labored for so many years, the city has been
the better for his living and is the poorer for his death.
JOHN N. LAWFER.
John N. Lawfer, throughout the period of his business ca-
reer actively and prominently connected with one of the leading
department stores, W, R. Lawfer & Co., of Allentown, was born
in Kreidersville, Northampton county, Pennsylvania, February
9, i860, and is an honored representative of one of the old Ame-
rican families, whose connection with the new world dates back
to the seventeenth century.
His great-grandfather was Peter Lawfer, and his grandpar-
ents were Jacob and Leah (Steckel) Lawfer, natives of North-
ampton county, Pennsylvania. Jacob Lawfer was a farmer by
occupation, and conducted his operations for many years on the
old family homestead in Moore township, Northampton county,
Pennsylvania. Among the children born to him was a son, Wil-
liam R, Lawfer.
William R. Lawfer, father of John N. Lawfer, was born
August 5, 1838, on the old homestead in Moore township. North-
ampton county, died at Allentown, Pennsylvania, September 14,
1900, and his remains were interred in Fairview Cemetery, Al-
lentown. The days of William R. Lawfer's boyhood and youth
were passed in the usual manner of farmer lads. He assisted
in the labors for which his age and strength fitted him, and
attended the common schools until thirteen years of age, when
1 66 Thb Laupfer History.
■ ■■ — - - ■ . — , - — . — --.. i . , - - . ,,, — —. ■ .. ^ ■ — ,, — m
he entered upon his business career as a clerk in the store of his
uncle, Aaron Steckel, with whom he remained for six months.
He was employed by Stephen Raeder, of Bath, Pennsylvania,
in die spring of 185 1, and continued in tiiat posidon undl the
business was sold, after which he remained with Flick & Smock,
successors of his former employer, for four years. Desirous
then of enjoying better educational privileges than had previous-
ly been afforded him, he became a pupil in the select school taught
by Dr. Thomas C. Apple,, and subsequently continued his studies
in the Phillip Lehman select school, at Easton, Pennsylvania,
taught by John H. Oliver. Resuming his place in the business
world, he was employed in the general store of Joseph Wanama-
ker, (a relative of John Wanamaker, the famous Philadelphia
and New York merchant), in Kreidersville, Pennsylvania, and
afterwards by A. H. and Amos Hahn, in Bath, with whom he
continued for eight years. During the year 1865-66 fe was a
salesman in the store of Hon. Joseph Laubach, Stemton, Penn-
sylvania, and in the latter named year became a resident of Al-
lentown and entered into partnership with W. R. Steckel under
the firm style of Lawfer & Steckel. They carried a large stock
of dry goods and groceries, and the business was continued by
the original partners until 1874, when Mr. Steckel disposed of
his interest to George W. Hartzell, and in 1876 Mr. Hartzell was
succeeded by Jacob Lawfer, a brother of William R. Lawfer.
At the expiration of three years time the sons of William R.
Lawfer — J. Harry, John X. and Alvin W. — entered the firm.
They conducted an extensive department store, covering acres
of rloor space, which is still one of the leading mercantile en-
terprises of the city( Mr. Lawfer was a director in the Allen-
town National Bank, a member of the board of trustees of the
Allentown College for Women, and one of the charter members
of the Allentown Hospital, and was interested in all matters cal-
culated to advance the welfare of the community. He was very
active in religious and benevolent work, held membership in the
Zion Reformed Church, represented the Congregation as delegate
elder at meetings of classes and synod, and also served as superin-
tendent of the Sunday school connected therewith for many
years. He was a member of the board of directors of the Bethany
Thb Lauffbr History. 167
Orphan Home of the Reformed Church, at Womelsdorf, Berks
county, Pennsylvania.
In 1857 William R. Lawfer was united in marriage to Miss
Hannah Kkppinger, a daughter of John Kleppinger, a prominent
and successful farmer near Siegfried's Bridge, Northampton Co.,
Pennsylvania.
John N. Lawfer, son of William R. and Hannah (Klepping-
er) Lawfer, was reared in Allentown, Pennsylvania, acquired a
knowledge of the rudimentary branches of study in its public
schools, later was a student at Muhlenberg College, and com-
pleted his education at Franklin and Marshall College, Lancast-
er, Pennsylvania. He received his business training in his fa-
ther's store, and after serving in the capacity of salesman for
some time was admitted to a partnership. Mr. Lawfer, who is
clear-headed, enterprising and discriminating in his business
methods, became quickly recognized as a progressive merchant,
and his keen sagacity and strong purpose, which were salient
elements in his career, combined with strict integrity won for him
a prominent place in the commercial cicles of Allentown, where
his word is considered as good as his bond. The enterprise
with which he is connected is conducted along modern business
lines, and its great increase in trade during recent years is in a
large measure due to the capable and efficient efforts of John N.
Lawfer. Aside from his extensive business interests, Mr^ Lawfer
devotes considerable of his time and means to benevolent work,
more particularly in behalf of orphans, being an active and po-
tent factor in the success of the Bethany Orphan Home of the
Reformed church, at Wornelsdorf, Berks county, with which his
father was for many years actively identified.
He is also a member of the board of trustees of the Phoebe
Deconess and Old Folks Home of Allentown. He is a mem-
ber of St. John's Reformed church, and served in its board for a
number of years. Mr. Lawfer enjoys the acquaintance of a wide
circle of friends, who admire him for his many excellent charac-
teristics, and he and his family occupy an enviable position
in the social life of Allentown. Mr. Lawfer so closely resembled
1 68 Thp Lauffer History.
his father in looks, disposition and physique that he was often
taken for his brother.
John N. Lawfer was married to Miss Irene C. Saeger,
daughter of Henry J. Saeger, and they became the parents of five
children : Emily M., Charles H., who died in infancy ; Harold
5., Marian S., who also died in infancy; and William R. Law-
fer. Mr. Lawfer is a faithful and devoted husband, a kind and
indulgent father, and their home is noted for the utmost hospi-
tality.
RACHEL LAUFER
Rachel, eldest of the five daughters of Peter, the Revolution-
ary shoemaker, was married to Henry Renner. H had two
daughters, Julia married to a Bartholomew and Pollie married to
a Stewart. Tradition has it that they moved to the vicinity of
Meadville, Pa. Their location is not known to grandmother
Scholl, nor Jacob P. Laufer, who have supplied us with most of
the data, as to the daughters of Old Peter.
ELIZABETH LAUFER.
Elizabeth Lawfer, daughter of Peter, the Revolu-
tionary shoemaker, was married to Matheus Greber.
She was born November 14, 1779, and died November 14,
1859, agcd 79 years. She was married in 1801, by Rev.
Funderslot. The inscription on her tomb stone, at Old
Stone Church, tells us that she lived in married life with Ma-
theus Greber 52 years, and was the mother of 12 children. He
died Feb. 5, 1858, aged 88 years, 1 month and 29 days. By oc-
cupation he was a nailsmith, and resided at Petersville, Pa.
Their children were :
(1) George Greber, single. Born Sept. 17, 1802. Died Apr.
5, 1892. Interred at Petersville, Pa.
(2) Cathrine Greber, died Nov. 13, 1865. Aged 57 years
and 1 day.
(3) Susanna Greber, died Oct. 7, i860, aged 48 years.
(4) Lydia Greber died Nov. 14, 1864, aged 43 years and I
month.
(5) Elizabeth Greber, born Oct. 25, 1801. Died Dec. I,
1852. Married to John Ferrel One child.
Tun Laui'fer History. 169
John Ferrel, of Siegfrieds, Pa., born Dec. II, 1831, died Dec.
11, 1894. Married to Malinda Hellem (born in 1842), in i860,
by Rev. Kuhns. Two children.
(a) Henry Ferrel, son of John Ferrel, son of Elizabeth Gre-
ber, daughter of Elizabeth Laufer, of Siegfrieds, Pa., born March
3, 1861. Married to Fanny Snyder (died Apr. 13, 1889, aged 27
years, 3 months and 11 days). Four children.
John F. Ferrel, born Dec. 5, 1868. Died Jan. 11, 1875. Liz-
zie Ferrel, born Dec. 28, 1882. Minnie Ferrel, born Feb. 26, 1885.
Fannie Ferrel, born Apr. 8, 1889.
(b) Levina Ferrel a sister of Henry Ferrel, was born
Sept. 18. 1862. Married to Levi Yehl (born July 21, 1865). Six
children.
Anna L. Yehl, born Jan. 26, 1884.
Elvin E. Yehl, born Nov. 7, 1886.
Cora B. Yehl, born Apr. II, 1888.
Harry E. Yehl, born Apr. 19, 1891,.
Gertrude M. Yehl, born Oct. 4, iov4-
H. Ellen Yehl, born Aug. 31, 1900. P. O. Siegfrieds, Pa.
(6) Andrew Greber, son of Elizabeth Laufer, daughter of
Peter, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was born July 17, 1818.
Died May 13, 1900. Aged 81 years, 9 months, 26 days. He was
married in 1840 to Leah Spengler (born Sept. 14, 1824, died May
21, 1800), by Rev. Mensing, Petersville, Pa. Six children.
(a) Magdalenna Greber, born Nov. 10, 1844. Died Aug.
10, 1853.
(b) Adam Greber, born May 21, 1851. Died Dec. 23, 1853.
(c) John M. Greber, born May 8, 1864. Died Aug. 14, 1890.
(d) Eva M. Greber, born June 17, 1849. Mairied to Mathies
Houser (born July 29, 1844), of Allentown, Pa., by Rev. Kist-
ler. Died Oct. 3, 1884.
(e) Amanda Greber, born May 21, 1854. Married in 1870
to Henry Long, of Walnutport, Pa. Died June 27, 1885.
(f) Mary A. Greber, born Nov. 11, 1856, married in 1884
to Lewis Minich, of Petersville, Pa., by Rev. Mabry ; died June
26, 1900. Lewis Minich was born Apr. 15, 1853. Three chil-
i-jo The Lauffer History
dren. John M. Minich, born Apr. 26, 1888. Henry Minich and
Amanda Minich.
(g) Rebecca Greber was born Nov. 28, 1854. Married in
1878 to William H. Gross, of Siegfrieds, Pa., (bom May 12,
1856) by J. W. Andrew. Three children.
Amanda Gross, born Jan. II, 1880. Married in 1904 to
Charles Jacoby.
Andrew Gross, born Oct. 17, 1884.
Emma Gross, born Feb. 25, 1886.
(7) Mary M. Greber (Polly) daughter of Elizabeth Lauf-
er, daughter of Peter, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was born
Oct. 28, 1810. Married in 1835 to Reuben Person (born June
13, 1810) by Rev. Mensing. Tailor, at Petersville, Pa. She died
Feb. 17, 1890. Aged 85 years, 3 months, 9 days. He died Jan.
18, 1847. Two children.
(a) Mary Person, born Dec. 18, 1836, died Sept. 19, 1844.
(b) Emalina Person, born Aug. 19, 1841. Married in 1862
to Geo. Silfies, of Petersville, Pa., (born Oct. 31, 1839), by Rev.
A. Fox. Six children.
Rev. Unas O. Silfies, of Philadelphia, born Mar. 23, 1863,
married to Emma Fehnel.
Henry M. Silfies, born July 31, 1864. P. O., Edelmans, Pa.
Blacksmith. Married to Cathrine Gether.
Terinus T. Selfics, born June 1, 1869. Petersville, Pa.
Married to Rosa Silfies.
Carmie E. Silfies, born Dec. 17, 1871. Married to Ellen V.
Marsh, Petersville, Pa.
Calvin Silfies, born May 22, 1874. Married to Emma Eng-
ler, Petersville, Pa.
Emma L. Silfies, born Dec. 3, 1878. Married to Ulysis
Schail, Petersville, Pa.
Mary M. Greber was again married to Peter Silfies (born
May 26, 1821, died Oct. 12, 1897), of Petersville, Pa. One
child.
Sarah Silfies, married to Cyrus Edelman, of Petersville, Pa.
The Lauffer History. 171
(8) Julian Greber, born Oct. 13, 1822. Married in 1845
to Louis Spengler, of Petersville, Pa. He was born Dec. 18,
1821, and died Oct. 15, 1903. Five children.
(a) Christian Spengler, born Feb. 26, 1856, died Mar. 27,
1857.
(b) Sobina Spengler, born Feb. 3, 1847. Married in 1872
to Edwin Newhard (born Sept. 14, 1843) by Rev- Lessenberger.
Siegfried, Pa. One child. Emma M. Newhard, born Sept. 14,
1875, married to William H. Heiney, of Seigfrieds, Pa.
(c) Elizabeth Spengler, born Dec. 15, 1848, died June 7,
1903. Married in 1873 to Joseph Yehl (born Mar. 4, 1848), by-
Rev. Andrews. Seigfrieds, Pa. One child. William Yehl,
born July 18, 1874. Siegfrieds, Pa., married to Mary J. Rismiller.
(d) Sallie Spengler, born May 9, 1852, married to William
Zellner, of Kreidersville, Pa. One child. Elmer Zellner, mar-
ried to Lillie Lindaman. Kreidersville, Pa.
(e) Mary Jane Spengler, born Nov. 16, i860. Married to
Monroe Solt (born July 28, 1857), Indianland, Pa. One child.
John H. Solt, born Mar. 21, 1885.
CATHRINE LAUFER.
Cathrine Laufer, daughter of Peter, the Revolutionary shoe-
maker, was born July 26, 1778. Died May 28, 1847, aSed 68
years, 10 months, 2 days. She is interred at Deiter's Church,
Petersville, Pa. She was married to Michael Asch, born Oct.
10, 1773, died May 13, 1812. Aged 38 years, 7 months, 3 days.
Six children.
(1) Sallie Asch, married to Samuel Steaver. They went
west long ago, and is said to have three sons in Iowa.
(2) Michael Asch. No data received. He had a son Oli-
ver Asch, who was a soldier in the Civil War, whose widow,
Lydia Asch, is said to live in Akron, Ohio.
(3) Joseph Asch.
(4) Cathrine Asch, married to Abraham Beer. She had
two children.
(a) Eliza Beer was married to David Deiter, of Petersville,
Pa., (born May 4, 1814, died Apr. 11, 1892. Interred at Deit-
crs Church.
1 72 The Lauffer History.
(b) Cathrine Beer, married to David Roberts, of Daniers-
viile, Pa.
(5) Mary M. Asch was married to Benjamin Deiter. To
them were born six children.
(a) .Mrs. Beck, (b) Mrs. Bilheimer, (c) Mrs. Dilliard,
(d) Miss Mary Deiter, (e) Rebecka Deiter, who married Steven
Easterday, of Cherryville, Pa. Seven children. Walter Easter-
day, Alonco Easterday, Robert Easterday, William Easterday,
Jane Easterday, Malisa Easterday, Mary Easterday, (f) Charles
Deiter, born Oct. 14. 1824, married to Diana Deiter (born Oct.
23, 1834). Siegfrieds, Pa. Seven children.
Eleanor Deiter, born Sept. 12, 1855, married to George A.
Beck.
Melissa Deiter. born Oct. 2, 1857, died Oct. 2, 1862.
Mary C. Deiter, born July, 1858, died Oct. 9, 1858.
Oswell H. Deiter, born Aug., 1859, died Oct. 16, 1859.
Lilly J. Deiter, born Oct. 30, 1863, married to John H. Dan-
ner (born Aug. 22. 1859), Siegfrieds, Pa.
Emma M. Deiter, born Jan. 18, 1857, married to John D.
Erankley.
Cora M. Deiter, born Dec. 4, 1870, married to George R.
Barber.
Robert B. Deiter, born Oct. 11, 1872, died Jan. 29, 1893.
Mary M. Asch was married again to Christian Bilheimer, the
blacksmith, at Petersville, Pa. Four children. She was born
in 1800. Died 1881. Interred at Howertown Chruch. Chris-
tian Bilheimer was born May 28, 1802, died Apr. 28, 1871. In-
terred at Deiters Church. To them were born three children : —
I. Jacob Bilheimer, born Dec. 30, 1835. Died July 15,
1902. Interred at I lower town church. Married to Mary Alum-
mey. Eight children.
fa) Ida W. Bilheimer, born Dec. 14, 1864.
(b) Henrv T. Bilheimer, born June 24, 1866. Siegfrieds,
Pa.
The Lauffer History. 173
(c) C. Wilson Bilheimer, born Oct. 20, 1871, Siegfrieds,
Pa.
(d) Emma M. Bilheimer, born Aug. 9, 1873. Married to
Mr. Savitz, of Siegfrieds, Pa.
(e) Clinton A. Bilheimer, born Apr. 23, 1876, of Sieg-
frieds, Pa.
(f) Charles H. Bilheimer, born Aug. 31, 1878, of Sieg-
frieds, Pa.
(g) Oscar J. Bilheimer, born Apr. 22, 1880, of Siegfrieds,
Pa.
(h) Priscilla Bilheimer, born Mar. 3, 1837, married to
William H. Hauser, of Slatington, Pa. Eight children.
Henry O. Hauser, Wilson J. Hauser, Wesley M. Hauser,
Calvin Hauser, Alice Hauser, married to Mr. Bernd, of Walnut-
port, Pa. ; Emma Hauser, to Mr. Andrews; Laura Hauser to Mr.
Weiss; Carrie Hauser, to Mr. Smith.
II. Louisa Bilheimer, born Sept. 3, 1840, married to Lewis
Best, of Allentown, Pa. Ten children. Sylvester Best, George
Best, Henry Best, Stephen Best, Walter Best, Frank Best, Wil-
liam Best, Lillie Best, married to Peters, Carrie Best, Jane Best,
deceased.
Ill Viletta Bilheimer, born June 3, 1842, married to Henry
Steckel. One child. Wilson Steckel, married to Mary Krack.
Catharine Lanfer, daughter of Peter, the Revolutionary shoe-
maker, was married a second time in 1812, to Balthaser Heiney,
with whom she lived twenty-nine years in married life. He was
a farmer of Petersville, Pa., born Jan. 2, 1764 ; died Nov. 20,
1872, aged 7^ years, 9 months, 12 days. Four children.
(1) Julia Heiney, born Sept. 10, 1818. Married in 1837
to Ephriam Young by Rev. Mensing. He was born Dec. 14,
t8i8, died Nov. 30, 1904. Aged 86 years, 11 months, 6 days.
He was a merchant in Petersville, Pa. Julian Heiney died Jan.
4, 1847. Two children.
Amandus Young, born Aug. 18, 1838, died Nov. 27, 1840.
174 The Laupfbr History.
Henrietta Young, born Jan. 4, 1847. Married to Harry;
Boyer, of Easton, Pa.
(2) Harriet Heiney. Married to George W. Heiney, of Pe-
tersville, Pa., by Rev. Becker. Interred at Stone Church.
(3) Rebecca Heiney, married to Reuben Fenstermaker, of
Catasauqua, Pa., by Rev. Becker. Five children.
(a) Amanda Fenstermaker married to Adviana Hess.
Went west.
(b) Rev. Thomas Fenstermaker, of Philadelphia.
(c) Milton Fenstermaker.
(d) Katy Fenstermaker, of Catasauqua, Pa.
(e) Jane Fenstermaker, of Catasauqua, Pa.
(4) Christina Heiney, born Sept. 1, 1813. Married in
1834 to Reuben Beichy, of Petersville, Pa., (born Dec. 9, 1812),
by Rev. Mensing. She died Jan. 20, 1895. Reuben Beichy died
May 29, 1896. Both are interred at Deiters Church. Eleven
children.
(a) Isabella Beichy born Nov. 29, 1835, married to Peter
Schofer, of Slatington, Pa., son of George Schofer.
(b) Christina Beichy, born Dec. 25, 1837, married to Peter
Schofer, son of Devalt Schofer, of Klechnersville, Pa.
(c) Rebecca Biechy born Feb. 2, 1840, married to John Bar-
ber, of Danielsville, Pa.
(d) Sarah L. Biechy, born Mar. 30, 1842, married to John
Reph (deceased), of Petersville, Pa. She died Sept. 26, 1895.
(e) Martin M. Biechy, born Feb. 24, married to Louisa Fen-
nel, of Siegsfrieds, Pa.
(f) Gideon Biechy, born Aug. 22, 1846. Married to Anna
Eddinger, Petersville, Pa. He died Aug. 21, 1900.
(g) Amanda Biechy, born Sept 26, 1848, married to Wil-
liam Eckert, merchant, of Weatherly, Pa.
(h) Harrison Biechy, born Sept 20, 1850, married to Mary
Young, Slatington, Pa.
(i) Henrietta Biechy, born Sept 17, 1852, married to Jacob
Deiter. Siegfrieds, R. F. D. 3.
The Lauffer History. 175
(j) William Biechy, born Feb. 27, 1855, of Cherryville, Pa.
Married to Susan George.
(k) Cyrus R. Biechy, born Mar. 25, 1858. Siegfrieds, R. F.
D. 3. Married to Sarah Henry.
Susanna Laufer, daughter of Peter Laufer, the Revolution-
ary schoemaker, was born Dec. 8th, 1782, and died in 1847, aged
65 years. She was married to Andreas Lilly, Petersville, Pa.
He died February 17th, 1830, aged 81 years, one month and one
day. Five children. ..^•f**"
I. William Lilly, born December 31, 1805. Died March nth,
1 87 1. Married to Mary Ramely by Rev. Mensing. She was born
June 26th, 18 14. Died August 3, 1853. Ten children. (1) Lo-
vina Lilly, born January 1st, 1845. Married to Geo. Santee (born
Dec. 20, 1822. Died Feb. 26th, 1881). To them were born
eleven children :
(a) Mary Santee, born Dec. 18th, 1847. Married to Wil-
liam Smoyer, of Seemsville, Pa.
(b*) John Santee, born Sept. 24th, 1853. Married to Susan
Koch, of Bethlehem, Pa.
(c) James Santee, born Feb. 1st, 1855. Married to Diannah
Kuntz. P. O. Petersville, Pa.
(d) George T. Santee, born March 13, 1857.
(e) Lucy A. Santee, born Feb. 1st, 1859. Married to Moses
Spengler (born April 1st, 1857), Seemsville, Pa.
(f) Charles Santee. Infant.
(g) Amandas Santee, born November 3, 1863, of Siegfreids,
Pa. Married to Mary Bartholomew.
(h) William H. Santee, born Oct. 6th, 1865. Married to
Alavesta Bartholomew.
(i) Robert T. Santee, born Oct. 6th, 1867. Married to
Amanda Helick. P. O., Petersville, Pa.
(j) Amanda L. Santee, born Nov. 5th, 1870. Married to
Jacob N. Dankle, of Chapman's Quarries, Pa.
(k) Bracila Santee, born Nov. 7th, 1874. Infant
176 The Lauffer History.
(2) Samuel Lilly, son of William Lilly, the son of Susanna
Laufcr, was married to Elizabeth Bush (horn April 7th, 1833 ;
died Aug. 5, 1902), Bethlehem, Pa.
(3) Charles Lilly, of Stroudsburg, Pa. Married to Sabina
Sieger.
(4) William Lilly, of Bethlehem, Pa., Married to Eliza-
beth Lacereth.
(5) James Lilly, deceased.
(6) Amandas Lilly. Killed in the Civil War.
(7) Edwin Lilly, married to Mary Houser. P. (_)., Kleck-
nersvillee, Pa.
(8) Tilman Lilly, married to Sarah Hankey.
(9) Eliza Lilly, married to Abraham Walk.
(10) Martha Lilly, married to George Siegfried.
II. Jesse Lilly, son of Susanna Laufer and Andreas Lilly.
III. Susanna Lilly, daughter of Susanna Laufer and An-
dreas Lilly, was married to Richard Miller, the tailor, of Allen-
town, Pa. Seven children.
(a) Greta Miller, married to Mr. Horn.
(b) Raisy Miller, married to James Yellis.
(c) Sophia Miller.
(d) Sarah Miller, married to Mr. Fluck.
(e) Harry Miller.
(f) Charles Miller.
(g) Andrew Miller. All residing in Allentown.
IV. Pollv Lilly, married to Daniel Fehnel, of Kleckners-
ville, Pa.
V. Elizabeth Lilly, married to Aaron Steckel. One child,
Susanna Steckel, married to Edwin Bartholomew.
VI. Catherine Lilly, married to Samuel Smith. Three
children.
(a) William Smith.
(b) Susanna Smith, married to James Bilheimer.
(c) Mrs. Edelman.
The Lauffer History. 177
Anna Maria Laufer, daughter of Peter Laufer, the Revolu-
tionary shoemaker, was born Sept. 20, 1792, died March 18th,
1877. Was married to George Marsh by Rev. Mensing. He re-
sided at Klecknersviile, Pa., born May 3, 1795, died Sept. 8th,
1859. Six children.
I. Levina Marsh, born Nov. 4, 1819, married to Charles
Bauer, of Klecknersviile, Pa., died April 14, 1898. Interred at
Moorestown Church. Charles Rauer was born Dec. 8, 1818, died
Sept. 23, 1857. Four children.
(a) Jacob Bauer.
(b) Mary Bauer, born Now 9, 1848, married to Edwin Bal-
;iard, of Klecknersviile, Pa.
(c) Charles Bauer, born March 18, 1850, married to Mary
L. Miller (born Oct. 3, 1850). P. O., Klecknersviile, Pa.
(d) John Bauer, born Sept. 6th, 1851, married to Ella
Reese. P. O.. Moorestown, Pa.
If. Jacob Marsh, son of Anna Maria Laufer, daughter of
Peter Laufer, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was born in 1820.
He was married to Christina Frankenfield (born January 30,
1827; died Aug. 23, 1904). Both are interred at Moorestown
Church. Four children.
(a) Mary Marsh, married to James Spengler.
(b) Hannah Marsh, married to Peter Remmcll.
(c) Levina Marsh, married to Conrad Deiter.
(d) Elizabeth Marsh, deceased.
III. George Marsh, died May 20, 1896, aged 69 years,
four months and one day. Interred at Moorestown Church.
Married to Sarah Frankenfield, by whom he had three children.
(a) James Marsh.
(b) Howard Marsh.
(c) Alfred Marsh. All residing at Klecknersviile, Pa.
IV. Mary Marsh, born August 8, 1827, married to Jacob
Bauer. Removed to Ohio or Indiana.
V. Elizabeth Marsh, born December 21, 1832, married to
Samuel Fehnel, of Moorestown, Pa., by Rev. Kuntz. Samuel
Fehnel was born Sept. 3, 1832. Four children.
(a) Sarah J. Fehnel, born Nov. 14, 1856, married to John
Kunkle, of Bath, Pa.
178 The Laupier History.
(b) Emma Fehnel, born May 13, 1859, married to Adam
Deiler by Rev. J. Andrew?. He was born Sept. 8, 1856. P. O.,
Petersville, Pa.
(c) Mary A. Fehnel, born Feb. 6th, 187c, married to Eu-
gene Haugenbuch, of Moorestown, Pa. (Born Sept. 19, 1865.
Adam Lanier was a tailor by occupation ; he also worked a
small farm while living near Petersville, Northampton Co., Pa.
In the year 1828 he removed into Monroe Co., and purchased a
tract of timber land in the west end of the county, near Pleasant
Valley post office. While he worked at his trade, his sons did
some farming and lumbering ; they used up a good deal of the
lumber in making Hour and whiskey barrels, which were much
in demand at that time. Some years lateer, he and three of his
sons — Joseph, Samuel and Charles — bought some timber land
above the Pocono Mountains, where they operated a saw-mill for
some years. After selling this property, he and the younger
sons — Peter, Henry and Jonas — ran the farm, he working at his
trade until the death of his wife. About this time he sold the
home-stead to Dr. Heubner, and then made his home with Joseph,
his eldest son, until the time of his death.
Charles Laufer, son of Adam, son of Peter, the Revolution-
ary Shoemaker, l>orn Jan. 10, 1818, died in Broadheadsville,
Monroe Co., Pa., Jan. 23, 1902, aged 84 years, and 13 days. He
was one of the pioneer settlers of the west end of Monroe
County.
By occupation he was a farmer. He was married in Jan.,
1842. to Catharine Shupp, daughter of George and Susannah
Shupp ; about the same time he purchased sixty-six acres of land
from Joseph Teel. near the post office at Broadheadsville, about
twenty acres being cleared, and having on it a small one and a
half story stone house, with one room below and one up-
stairs, and a small log barn. On this place he and his wife
went to work, clearing several acres each year, until all was
cleared. They put up new buildings, and improved the place in
every respect. More acres were added, until it became one of
the finest farms in the western end of the county. He worked the
farm until within a few years of his wife's death, when he sold
the homestead to his son, Joseph, and built himself a new home
* - •
The Lattffer History. 179
in the village of Broadheadsville, in which he lived till the time
of his death.
In January, 1865, he and his son-in-law, John Wagner,
bought the large grist-mill near Broadheadsville, known as the
Hufsmith Mill, which they operated, doing business in the
name of Laufer & Wagner, doing a large business in flour, feed,
grain and lumber. April 1, 1873, he sold his interest in the
mill property to his son, Nathan Laufer.
He was an ardent member of the Reformed church, which he
liberally supported during his entire life. His life was that of a
noble Christian gentleman, and his death that of a faithful fol-
lower of Christ. Kind, gentle and generous, his counsel was
sought by old and young ; and his sterling Christian uprightness
influenced many to the better course. He was a regular attend-
ant at all services, and was an office bearer for many years.
His health was remarkable, until the fall preceding his death,
when he began to fail. There was no pain nor suffering, he just
grew weaker each day, until four days prior to his death.
In his home all were welcomed, and there he dispensed old-
fashioned hospitality.' He was interred in the Broadheadsville
cemetery by the side of his beloved wife, who preceded him home
fifteen years. His surviving children were: Charles, Mrs. Annie
Wagner, Mrs. Jeremiah Shafer, of Allentown ; George and
Jacob, of Lehighton ; Nathan and Joseph, of Broadheadsville.
Henry Laufer, son of Adam, son of Peter, the Revolutionary
Shoemaker, died Dec. 31, 1905, aged So years, five months, one
day. He expired at the residence of his daughter, Mrs. John
Haney, of Saylorsburg, with whom he made his home during
the past eight years. He was a successful farmer in Monroe
county, and retired fifteen years ago. The day preceding his
death, while waiting his turn in a barber shop, he was stricken
with paralysis, and had to be removed home in a carriage. Mr.
Laufer was a consistent member of the Reformed church. In-
terment at Broadheadsville, Pa. He is survived by a son ancj.
three daughters: Stewart Laufer of Bath; Mrs. Haney and Miss
Emma Laufer, of Saylorsburg, and Mrs. Wolfe, wife of Dr.
Horace Wolf, of Providence, R. I.
180 Thf Lauffer History.
Rev. Calvin W. Laufer, the recent pastor of the Steinway
Reformed Church. Steinway, L. I., and at present pastor of the
First Presbyterian Church, West Hoboken, X. J., is a son of
Nathan Laufer, of Broadheadsvillc, Pa. ; born April 6, 1876. He
had a strenuous time preparing himself for the ministry, and en-
thusiasm and marked industry have characterized his labors since.
"At the age of seventeen he had prepared himself to teach.
The law of Pennsylvania, however, precluded his teaching at that
age. Nevertheless, through the 'age blindness' 4of the local Board
of Education, he was appointed a public school teacher.
"His salary was $23 per month. The school in which he
taught was four and a half miles from his home. That distance
he walked twice a day, even during the cold winter? of 1901 and
1902. Meanwhile his evenings were devoted to Latin and
Greek, under the direction of his pastor. Rev. S. F. Laury, and
at the end of the first winter he had mastered three books of
Ca:sar and two books of Xenaphon's "Anabasis." Continuing to
teach for another winter and devoting his spare time to study, he
graduated from the Fairview Academy at Broadheadsville in the
spring of 1903, and received a gold medal for scholarship.
"In the fall of 1893 he entered college with only $93 in his
purse, and in his heart a profound faith in God — determined to
win at any price. While in college he played the organ in one of
the local churches, gave instruction on the piano to as many as
eighteen pupils a week, conducted a choral class, and occasionally
wrote verses for the local papers. He graduated from Franklin
and Marshall College, Lancaster, Pa., in 1897, winning the senior
prize debate and $50 in gold.
"In September, 1897, he entered Union Theological Semi-
nary, and graduated from it in 1900. During his course there
he connected himself, for financial reasons, with Rev. Dr. Schauf-
fler in missionary work in the slums, and he became associated
with the Rev. Dr. A. H. McKinny, now of Newark, but then
pastor of Olivet Church, New York City.
The membership trippled during the five years of his pas-
torate at Steinway; a membership of only 85 when he took
charge, and the Sunday School attendance grew from 275 to
500.
&~^<?
(^^^V^V ^K*^*-*^** C^O~<-*^i^Q
6^
i8o
Rev. Cai
Reformed CI:
First Tresbyi
Nathan Lauf<
had a strenuc
thusiasm and
'At the ;
The law of Pi
age. Neverth
of Education,
"His sal?
taught was fo
he walked twi
1902. Aleam
Greek, under
at the end of
Crcsar and twi
teach for anotl
graduated froi
spring of 1903
''In the fa
purse, and in
win at any pri<
the local churc
eighteen pupils
wrote verses f<
and Marshall C
prize debate an
"In Septet
nary, and gra<
he connected hi
f.er in mission;
with the Rev.
pastor of Olive
The memb
torate at Steinv
charge, and the
500.
V ~is-
/>
//J
\#*~
i8o
Rev. O
Reformed C
First Presb}
Nathan Laui
had a strenu
thusiasm and
'•At the
The law of I
age. Nevert
of Education
"His sal
taught was f
he walked tw
1902. Mean
Greek, under
at the end o
Caesar and tw
teach for ano
graduated frc
spring of 190
"In the f
purse, and in
win at any pr
the local chur
eighteen pupil
wrote verges
and Marshall
prize debate a
"In Sept<
nary, and gra
he connected r.
fler in missior
with the Rev.
pastor of Oliv
The mem
torate at Stein
charge, and th
500.
>
APR 2 9 T93C
Live Music Archive
Librivox Free Audio
Metropolitan Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Internet Arcade
Console Living Room
Books to Borrow
Open Library
TV News
Understanding 9/11