Biography: BEDFORD, Biographical Review, 1899, Bedford Co., PA, pp. 243-314 BEDFORD biographies contributed by Judy Banja jbanja@msn.com USGENWEB ARCHIVES (tm) NOTICE All documents placed in the USGenWeb Archives remain the property of the contributors, who retain publication rights in accordance with US Copyright Laws and Regulations. In keeping with our policy of providing free information on the Internet, these documents may be used by anyone for their personal research. They may be used by non-commercial entities so long as all notices and submitter information are included. These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit. Any other use, including copying files to other sites, requires permission from the contributors PRIOR to uploading to the other sites. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access. ___________________________________________________________ BIOGRAPHICAL REVIEW VOLUME XXXII CONTAINING LIFE SKETCHES OF LEADING CITIZENS OF BEDFORD AND SOMERSET COUNTIES PENNSYLVANIA Who among men art thou, and thy years how many, good friend? - XENOPHANES BOSTON: BIOGRAPHICAL REVIEW PUBLISHING COMPANY, 1899 SELECTED BEDFORD BIOGRAPHIES Included in the file, in this order, are the biographies of: Captain John B. Helm Samuel S. Baker Charles R. Yohn Edwin Hartley William Perry Morgart Wilson McDaniel Samuel H. Feather Rufus E. Smith Harvey Shaffer Samuel Shaffer Hon. John Cessna Rev. Jacob Fichtner Daniel Walter Frederick Zimmers David Calhoun George Elliott Samuel Shafer Martin V. Zeth Solomon Dicken George W. McClellan [243] CAPTAIN JOHN B. HELM, a prominent citizen of Bedford township, Bedford County, Pa., comes of substantial Revolutionary stock on both the paternal and maternal sides, and is himself a veteran of the Civil War. A son of Abram and Mary (Clark) Helm, he was born September 12, 1834, in Belmont County, Ohio, where his parents made their home a few years. His paternal grandfather, John Helm, who served in the war for American independence, was an early settler of Bedford (Dutch corner), Pa., and as a pioneer aided in the development and upbuilding of the township. The Helm family originated in Germany, which was their home for many generations, and after becoming citizens of the United States proved themselves most loyal and faithful to the interests of their adopted country. Abram Helm lived in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, until after his marriage with Mary Clark. He subsequently resided for a time in Belmont County, Ohio, but returned to Bedford township in 1835, and here spent the remainder of his life. His wife was the daughter of William Clark, a Revolutionary soldier, who became an early settler of St. Clair township, Bedford County. John B. Helm received a common-school education in Bedford, Pa., where he grew to manhood, and as a youth worked for three years in the office of the Bedford Inquirer, which was conducted by Mr. David Over, and was the leading local paper. In April 1861, Mr. Helm, inspired by the same patriotic motives that had animated his ancestors in Colonial [244] times, responded promptly to President Lincoln's call for seventy-five thousand troops by enlisting in Company G, Thirteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, under Captain John H. Filler, now Colonel Filler, of the Philadelphia Record. During the three months for which the regiment enlisted, he was Orderly Sergeant for Captain Filler, and performed his duties in that capacity most satisfactorily. He subsequently re-enlisted with the men recruited in Bedford by Captain, now Major, D. W. Mullin, in Company G, One Hundred and First Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. From Second Sergeant he was successively promoted to be Orderly Sergeant, Second Lieutenant, and First Lieutenant, and at his discharge was brevetted Captain. With his comrades he participated in many of the more important battles of the war, among others being the following: siege of Yorktown; Williamsburg; Fair Oaks, or Seven Pines; seven days' battles before Richmond, which included White Oak Swamp, Malvern Hill, and Harrison's Landing. Wessel's brigade, to which the One Hundred and First Pennsylvania Regiment was attached, covered the rear during these latter engagements, and safely transported all the ammunition, wagons, and store supplies. In December, 1862, Captain Helm took an active part in the battles at Kinston, White Hall, Goldsboro, and Little Washington, all in North Carolina. The following year he was stationed with his regiment in that State, and had skirmishes with the enemy at Blount's Creek, Williamston, and Foster's Mills, besides commanding expeditions up both the Roanoke and the Alligator Rivers. In April, 1864, Captain Helm was captured, with the remaining members of Wessell's brigade, at the three days' and nights' siege of Plymouth, N.C., and was taken to Macon, Ga., where he was confined several months in the stockade. He was subsequently transferred to the prison at Columbus, S.C., from which he escaped about the first of November, 1864; but unfortunately, while hiding in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, he was recaptured thirty days later by the Cherokee Indians, who were in the rebel service. After being marched to Quallatown, on the Swannanoa River, thence to Asheville, and then to Morganton, N.C., he and his companions were sent by train to Salisbury, N.C., and from there to Danville, Va., where they were imprisoned eight weeks. On February 5, 1865, he and two daring comrades again made their escape, and were successful in reaching the Union lines a month later, glad enough to be once more under the protection of the "Stars and Stripes." The Captain was mustered out of service at the close of the war, receiving his honorable discharge at Harrisburg. Soon after returning to Bedford, Captain Helm settled on his present farm, which contains two hundred acres of land; and he has since devoted himself principally to agricultural pursuits. A Republican in politics, he takes an intelligent interest in the movements of that party, and in two campaigns has been the Republican candidate for Sheriff of Bedford County. For a time he was Assessor for [245] the Internal Revenue Department in what was then the Sixteenth District, but is now the Twentieth District. When the Cumberland & Pennsylvania Railroad was first built, he was residing at Bridgeport (now Hyndman), and was the first Postmaster of that place. In 1868 he was Assistant Deputy Collector of Internal Revenues for Bedford County, Pennsylvania, under William McSherry, of Adams County, Pennsylvania, the salary being at that time two hundred dollars per year, and a bond of five thousand dollars being required. Fraternally, he is an active member of William Watson Post, No. 132, G.A.R., of which he was treasurer a number of years. [246] SAMUEL S. BAKER, who owns and manages one of the finest and best equipped farms of Snake Spring township, Bedford County, Pa., is an excellent representative of the native-born citizens of this place. A son of the late Jacob B. Baker, he was born February 13, 1853. He comes of sturdy pioneer stock, his grandfather, John Baker, having removed from Lancaster County, this State, to Bedford County in 1819. John Baker located in Bloomfield, where he spent the remainder of his life, engaged chiefly in the laborious task of clearing land and improving a homestead. Jacob B. Baker, who was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, in 1817, was but two years of age when he was brought by his parents to Bloomfield. During the days of his boyhood and youth it fell to his lot to assist in the pioneer work necessary at that time; and, although a farmer's life then was not the pastoral existence it seems to be to-day, he continued the pursuit of agriculture many years. When a young man he removed to Snake Spring township, and soon after his marriage settled on a farm of his own, which he conducted with most satisfactory results thereafter. Of the children born of his union with Hannah Snyder, of Bedford County, three are now living, namely: John S., of Everett, Pa.; Catherine, wife of John P. Gouchenour, of North Dakota; and Samuel S., whose personal history is given below. Samuel S. Baker attended the district schools of Snake Spring when young, and the knowledge there acquired he has since supplemented by extensive reading. Early instructed in the science and art of agriculture, he proved himself an apt pupil, and when called upon to decide his life occupation chose that to which he was reared. Possessing an unlimited amount of energy and a large stock of sound sense, he has met with deserved success in his operations, and is now proprietor of a finely appointed farm of one hundred and eleven acres. On this he has made substantial improvements, including the erection of a commodious residence and convenient farm buildings. In his political belief and affiliations Mr. Baker is a stanch Republican. He takes an active part in politics, and is now a member of the Republican County Committee. He has served his township as School Director two [247] terms and as Justice of the Peace one term. In 1895 he was a candidate for the office of County Commissioner, but failed to secure the nomination. He is liberal in his religious views, and though not a member of any church contributes generously to the cause of Christianity. On September 12, 1877, Mr. Baker married Mary B. Heffner, a daughter of Samuel Heffner, a venerable citizen of Snake Spring township, now in his eighty-fifth year. Mr. Heffner removed to this town from Franklin County many years ago, and has since been one of its most respected citizens. Mr. and Mrs. Baker have eight children living, namely: Mary E., Edith V., Carrie, Jennie, Clarence V., Benjamin H., Samuel R., and Ruth. [248] CHARLES R. YOHN, master mechanic of the Huntingdon & Broad Top Mountain Railroad and Coal Company's shops at Saxton, Pa., is a native of this State. He was born August 6, 1838, in Montgomery County, which was the birthplace of his father, Henry B. Yohn. The latter was a farmer, and engaged in agricultural pursuits in Montgomery and Chester Counties. His wife, whose maiden name was Sarah Burns, was born and brought up in Chester County, Pennsylvania, and was of Revolutionary stock. Charles R. Yohn during his early years [249 CHARLES R. YOHN [photo] [251] attended the district schools of his neighborhood in Montgomery County. Having much natural mechanical ingenuity, and not content to spend his life as a farmer, he looked about in search of congenial employment, and on April 4, 1858, began working with a bridge-builder's gang on the Philadelphia & Reading Railway. Two years later he became fireman for the same company, and, soon after the breaking out of the Civil War, he was promoted to the position of engineer. In this capacity Mr. Yohn remained nineteen consecutive years, during which he ran his locomotive day after day, with neither mishap nor accident, a remarkable record for so long a time. In 1881 he accepted his present position with the Huntingdon & Broad Top Railway Company as master mechanic, having charge of their many shops at Saxton. He has proved himself a most efficient superintendent, and to a marked degree has won the confidence and esteem both of those above and those below him. He is a Republican in politics, a member of the Baptist church, and is held in high regard as a man and a citizen. He is a Mason, belonging to Chandler Lodge No. 227, in Reading, Pa. Mr. Yohn married on September 22, 1863, Miss Hannah R. Lewis, of Reading, Pa. Her grandfather, James Lewis, was a first cousin of General Anthony Wayne, of Revolutionary fame. They have three children living, namely: Mrs. John M. Sanderson; Mrs. C. H. Jones; and Ambrose E., who is a graduate of the Mechanical Engineering Department of the Lehigh University. [252] EDWIN HARTLEY, one of the leading farmers of Snake Spring township, Bedford County, Pa., was born in this place on September 14, 1842. He is a son of the late Judge John G. and Lucy (McKey) Hartley. His grandfather, William Hartley, was for many years a prominent resident of Bedford County, in the early days of its settlement contributing a good share in developing its resources and promoting its welfare. John G. Hartley was born in this county, and spent a large portion of his life in Snake Spring. After leaving the district school he took a course of study at an academy in Bed- [253] ford, Pa., where he acquired a substantial education, which was subsequently supplemented by reading useful works on historical, scientific, and legal topics. From his early manhood he was identified with the Democratic party, and he was often called to serve the public in an official capacity. Besides being School Director of Snake Spring township for a number of years, he was County Commissioner of Bedford County for a while, and for one term he occupied the position of Associate Judge of the county. As an exemplary husband and father, a kind neighbor and a public-spirited citizen, Judge Hartley enjoyed the sincere respect of the community, and dying in October, 1897, he left a host of friends. The death of his wife, whose maiden name was Lucy McKey, occurred in June, 1893. Both were active members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and quite prominent in denominational work. Of their children the following named survive: William, of Bedford, Pa.; Edwin, the subject of this sketch; Emma, wife of the Rev. John Q. McAtte, of Philadelphia, Pa.; Harrison, of Snake Spring; Sarah, wife of the Rev. A. J. Miller, of Berwick, Pa.; John G., of Greensburg, Pa.; and Kate, wife of Clarence Howard, of Orlando, Fla. Edwin Hartley laid the foundation of his education in the public schools of Snake Spring, afterward advancing it by attendance at the Bedford High School, and completing it by four years of study at a seminary in Rainsburg. On attaining his majority, he chose agriculture, it being a congenial occupation, as the industry to which he would devote his time. In his labors he has met with prosperity, and is now the possessor of a valuable farm of one hundred and seventy-nine acres, on which he carries on a thriving business in general farming and stock-raising, making a specialty of breeding grade Oxfordshire Down sheep. Loyal to the political faith in which he was reared, Mr. Hartley has always supported the Democratic party. Serving for thirteen years as a School Director of Snake Spring township, he has done much to promote the cause of education in this vicinity. In things pertaining to agriculture also, he is recognized as an authority, and for a number of years he has been a member and director of the Bedford County Agricultural Society. In October, 1861, Mr. Hartley married Martha Koontz, of Snake Spring, a daughter of the late N. N. Koontz. She died in February, 1897, leaving two children, namely: Oliver C., a government inspector, with headquarters at Pittsburg, Pa.; and Marian R., wife of James G. Sansom, of Wilkinsburg, Pa., manager for the Monongahela Traction Company. [260] WILLIAM PERRY MORGART, a venerable and highly esteemed citizen of Colerain, Bedford County, Pa., has long occupied a place of prominence in business, agricultural, and political circles. He was born in this township, December 25, 1818, a son of Peter, Jr., and Elizabeth (Cessna) Morgart. His grandfather, Peter Morgart, Sr., was one of the pioneers of Bedford County, to which he came at an early day from Morgan County, Virginia. Peter Morgart, Jr., was born in Morgan County, Virginia, but was brought up in West Providence township, Pa., where he assisted his father, the elder Peter, in clearing a homestead. After his marriage he continued farming on his own account in Colerain township until forced to give up active labor. From 1848 until his death, in 1863, he was blind, an affliction that deprived him of many comforts and pleasures at a time when he could well afford leisure for enjoyment. His long life of fourscore years, however, was wisely spent, much of his work being of a lasting nature. Of the children born to his union with Elizabeth Cessna, of Bedford County, the following are now living: William Perry; Francis C., of Juniata, Pa.; Samuel; Benjamin T.; Ellen C., wife of Robert Haffer, of Nebraska; Mary, wife of Horace Buchanan, of Iowa; and Rebecca, of Chicago, Ill. William P. Morgart obtained his education in the subscription schools of his day, and from boyhood until the present time has been engaged in agricultural pursuits. Trained to habits of industry, he labored unremittingly during his earlier mature years, and as he accumulated money he judiciously invested it in land. He is now the owner of two valuable and well-appointed farms in Colerain. A man of strict integrity, Mr. Morgart sustains a high reputation among his fellow-townsmen for straight and honorable business methods, and in a marked degree commands the confidence of the community. A strong supporter of the principles of the Democratic party, he is one of the leading politicians of his district. For a number of years he was Judge of Elections [261] of Colerain township, and besides having served many years as Assistant Assessor he was Assessor one year, when, it is claimed, the duties of that office were more efficiently performed than ever before. [262] WILSON McDANIEL, a well-known agriculturist and lumber dealer of West Providence township, Bedford County, Pa., was born in this township, January 24, 1830, a son of John and Eliza (Hughes) McDaniel. He is the descendant of a Scotch family that came to America in Colonial times and the grandson of Amos McDaniel, a pioneer settler of Bedford County. A large part of this county his grandfather assisted in surveying. John McDaniel was a lifelong resident of West Providence, where he was engaged in farming pursuits from early manhood until his death, which occurred on December 18, 1847. He married Eliza Hughes, who was born in Monroe township, Bedford County. Of their children three survive, namely: Wilson, the special subject of this sketch; Mrs. Susan Sill, now residing at Everett, Pa., the widow [263] of William Sill, late of St. Clairsville; and George W., in whose sketch, which appears elsewhere in this volume, may be found further ancestral history. Wilson McDaniel, in common with most farmers' sons of his day, attended the district school when it was in session, and at other times assisted in the lighter labors of the farm. Owing to the death of his father when he, the eldest son, was seventeen years old, much of the care of the homestead was thrown upon him. He courageously put his shoulder to the wheel, and from that time until the present has made farming his chief occupation, for a series of years having been also engaged in lumbering, conducting both industries with good pecuniary results. A man of sound sense, practical and progressive, he has filled many important township offices, having been a member of the local School Board several years, a part of the time its president, and on a number of occasions has served as Judge and Inspector of Elections. He is liberal in his religious views and a member of the Christian church. Mr. McDaniel has been twice married. By his first wife, formerly Catherine Williams, of West Providence, he had four daughters, of whom three are now living, namely: Mary, widow of the late George W. Kegg; Minnie, wife of Edward Grove; and Catherine. The other daughter, Eliza Jane, born October 24, 1860, died September 19, 1895. She was the wife of John U. Jackson, and the mother of three children - Carroll (deceased), Roy, and Paul. Mr. Jackson is again married. After the death of his first wife Mr. McDaniel married Miss Alcinda Williams, of East Providence, Pa. They are the parents of four children, as follows: Laura, wife of Harry Lee; Albert; Charles; and Ross. [268] SAMUEL H. FEATHER, a well-to-do farmer of Colerain township, Bedford County, Pa., is one of the best known and most respected citizens. He was born August 16, 1825, in East St. Clair, Pa., a son of Jacob and Mary (Otto) Feather. His paternal grandfather, Matthias Feather, was born and educated in Germany. He emigrated when a young man, and, settling in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, became one of the early pioneers of East St. Clair, the land that he took up being near St. Clairsville. Jacob Feather was born at the parental homestead, and in the district schools of East St. Clair he obtained his early knowledge of books. When a young man he married Mary Otto, a native of Bedford County. Coming to Colerain township a short time before the breaking out of the Civil War, he resided here a number of years before his removal to Monroe township, where he died at a ripe old age. He was a man respected by all who knew him, and was a member of the Reformed church. Samuel H. Feather in his boyhood received a common-school education, and from that time until the present has advanced in learning by judicious reading of papers and periodicals devoted to current topics. When about seventeen years old he began work at the carpenter's trade, which he followed for many years in conjunction with agricultural pursuits, first in East St. Clair and then in Colerain township, whither he removed in 1850. In 1854 he purchased his present farm of one hundred and fifteen acres. Until 1886 he was both carpenter and farmer, but more recently he has devoted his entire time and attention to the management of his home estate. A man of progressive ideas and of much force of character, Mr. Feather has been before the public eye in various offices of trust for many years past. For fifteen years he was township School Director, for a year he served as township Auditor, and for a number of terms he has presided as Judge of Elections. Religiously, he belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church; and fraternally, he is a member of the Rainsburg (Pa.) lodge of Odd Fellows and of the Grand Lodge, I.O.O.F., of the State of Pennsylvania. Mr. Feather has been twice married. His first wife, Mary A. Andrews, of Bedford County, bore him six children, of whom two are living, namely: Sarah M., wife of Edward Burkheimer, of Bedford, Pa.; and George B., a resident of Muncie, Ind. Mr. Feather's second wife, whose maiden name was Julia A. Scrader, was born and reared in this county. Five children have blessed their union, as follows: Anna B., wife of George W. Lasure, of Ohio; Mary A., wife of William Suter, of Snake Spring township; Carrie F., wife of [269] Murray Smith, of Colerain, Pa.; Harry A.; and Charles E., who lives with his parents. [270] RUFUS E. SMITH is a well-known and influential citizen of Hopewell township, Pa., where he is now serving as a member of the local school board. He was born October 17, 1844, in Muskingum County, Ohio, a son of John P. and Maria [271] (Eaches) Smith. His father was the son of a pioneer of Bedford County, and was himself a resident of Hopewell township a large part of his active career, as he returned from Ohio in 1847. Rufus E. Smith was but three years old when he came with his parents from his birthplace in Ohio to Hopewell. Here he was bred and educated. When twenty years of age, in 1864, he enlisted in Company C, Two Hundred and Fifth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, which became a part of the Ninth Corps of the Army of the Potomac. He was at the front in the battle of Fort Steadman, on March 25, 1865, and afterward at the siege of Petersburg was in various skirmishes, besides which, on April 2 of that memorable year, he was one of the assailants who made the brave charge upon the Confederate forces before that city. He likewise fought in the engagements at Weldon Railroad and Hatcher's Run. Honorably discharged from the service in the summer of 1865 at Alexandria, Va., he returned at once to Hopewell, where he has since been an esteemed resident. During a part of Grant's second term and again during a part of the administration of President Arthur, making six years in all, he held the office of Storekeeper and Gauger of the Sixteenth Internal Revenue District. He was also for a brief period a mail clerk on the route between Huntingdon and Cumberland, Pa. Mr. Smith has for several years been Auditor of Hopewell township, and is now serving his second term as a School Director. Politically, he is a sound Republican and actively in favor of all enterprises conducive to the public welfare. Fraternally, he is a member of the L. R. Piper Post, G.A.R., of Hopewell, which he served one year as Commander. Of later years he has confined his attention to agricultural pursuits. He has a fine farm of one hundred acres, which in regard to appointments and improvements ranks second to none in the vicinity, and he is carrying on general farming with eminent success. On May 6, 1875, Mr. Smith married Miss Margaret McCleary, of Hopewell township, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are the parents of eleven children, namely: Lena, William H., James A., John P., Mary M., Franklin C.; Joseph M., Rufus E., Jr., Harriet A., Robert, and Clarence. [272] HARVEY SHAFFER is a well-known farmer and business man of Colerain, Bedford County, Pa., where he was born on September 21, 1840. He comes of pioneer ancestry. His father, John Shaffer, and his grandfather, John Shaffer, Sr., both spent the greater part of their lives in Colerain, and by their industrious activity greatly assisted in the development of the township. John Shaffer was for years one of the most [275] thrifty farmers of this section of the county. He cleared a great deal of land, cutting the timber in winter seasons, and in the saw-mill that he erected he carried on a substantial business by manufacturing it into lumber. In these occupations he was engaged from early manhood until his death in February, 1870. He was a member of the Reformed church and in politics a Democrat. Of the children born of his union with Mary Rawlings, of Colerain, four survive, as follows: Thomas, who lives in Ohio; Harvey, the subject of this sketch; Jacob, a resident of Ohio; and Franklin P., a well-known citizen of Colerain, Pa. Harvey Shaffer earned a creditable record for scholarship while a pupil in the public schools of Colerain township, where he grew to man's estate. In August, 1862, inspired by patriotic ardor, he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Thirty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, which was assigned to the Army of the Potomac. He participated in fourteen of the more important engagements of the Civil War, including among others the battles of the Wilderness, Cold Harbor, and the siege of Petersburg, and was with Sheridan in the Shenandoah Valley campaign. Subsequently the Sixth Army Corps, of which his regiment formed a part, pursued Lee's army for four days, and then reaching Danville, Va., heard the news of the Confederate General's surrender. In June, 1865, Mr. Shaffer received his discharge from the service. Returning immediately to Colerain, he has since pursued the free and independent occupation to which he was reared. In addition to general farming he was engaged for many years in manufacturing lumber, operating his saw-mill in the winter seasons. His valuable farm contains two hundred and sixty acres of land, on which he has made substantial improvements. His great success in his line of industry is due solely to his energy, enterprise, and superior management. Politically, he has never swerved from the Democratic principles in which he was nurtured; and, though he has never aspired to official honors, he served three years as School Director of the township in which he lives. Mr. Shaffer has been twice married. His first wife, Elizabeth A. Rawlings, of Colerain, Pa., died young, leaving two children, namely: Arbanna M., wife of D. M. Beegle, of Colerain, and William, also of this township. Mr. Shaffer married for his second wife Matilda C., daughter of Samuel Morgart, of Colerain, Pa. They have two children - John H. and Lena E. [279] SAMUEL SHAFFER, now president of the School Board of Colerain, Bedford County, Pa., is well known throughout the community as a public-spirited, progressive citizen and a thriving farmer. He was born November 30, 1863, on the farm where he now resides, a son of Henry and Rebecca (May) Shaffer. His paternal grandfather, Henry Shaffer, Sr., was a pioneer settler of this township. Henry Shaffer, the younger, was a lifelong resident of Colerain, where he was born and where his death occurred when he was past seventy years of age. After settling on the farm now owned by his son Samuel, he did much pioneer work, clearing a large portion of it from its heavy growth of timber. A man of sound judgment and good common sense, he became an important factor in advancing the welfare of the township, in which he held many of the local offices. He was an uncompromising Republican in politics and a member of the Lutheran church, in which he served both as Elder and as Deacon. His wife, whose maiden name was Rebecca May, bore him ten children, eight of whom survive, as follows: Catherine, wife of Scott Stuckey, of Snake Spring township; William H., of Cumberland, Md.; John H., of Fostoria, Ohio; Sophia, wife of Henry James, of Bedford, Pa.; Josiah C., of Fostoria, Ohio; Emma, wife of Samuel Wertz, of Colerain township; Sarah A, wife of H. F. Ott, of Fostoria, Ohio; and Samuel, the special subject of this biography. Mary J., the eldest born, now deceased, was the wife of William H. Shaffer, of Colerain, Pa. The mother still continues her residence in Colerain, her native place. Samuel Shaffer is indebted to the public schools of Colerain for his early education, in the sense of book-learning, and to his thorough [280] training and long experience in the fields for his practical knowledge of farming. Succeeding to the homestead as well as to the occupation of his father, he is now the proprietor of two hundred acres of land, mostly under cultivation, in the management of which he is meeting with very satisfactory results. A Republican in his political opinions, he takes an intelligent interest in local matters, more especially in educational affairs, and is now serving his first term as School Director, being, as above mentioned, president of the board. Fraternally, he is connected with two secret organizations of Rainsburg, Pa., being a member of the I.O.O.F. of that town and of the P.O.S. of A. He belongs to the Lutheran church, which he is faithfully serving as Deacon. Mr. Shaffer married Miss Ida M. Pennell, of Rainsburg, Pa.; and they are the parents of two children - Grace L. and Nora E. [284] HON. JOHN CESSNA, late a distinguished citizen of Bedford County, Pennsylvania, was a lineal descendant in the fifth generation of John Cessna, of trans- Atlantic birth, and according to the family history a Huguenot or French Protestant, who fought in the battle of Boyne, Ireland, in July, 1690, and marrying an Irish maiden in the same year, came to America. John Cessna, first, and his wife settled in Eastern Pennsylvania. They reared a number of children, including a son who bore the father's name. John Cessna, second, also married and had a family. He settled somewhere near Shippensburg, Cumberland County, Pa. Among his sons were John and Charles. The Cessnas of Pennsylvania are frequently mentioned in Colonial Records. John Cessna, third, was a patriot of some distinction at the time of the Revolution. He served as a delegate in 1774 to the convention which, under the leadership of Benjamin Franklin, formally adopted the Constitution. John Cessna, third, moved in 1765 from Shippensburg to Friend's Cove in Bedford County, where he bought a farm that is still occupied by his descendants. He served six years as Sheriff of Bedford County. He was twice married. His first wife died when he was seventy years of age, and they had reared thirteen children. He then married a young woman, who bore him five children. John Cessna, fourth, son of the third John by his first marriage, also had a large family. His wife was Mary McCauslin, said to have been a very beautiful young woman, who came from Ireland when but an infant of a few months. Their son William, a farmer of Colerain, Pa., who died in 1865, was the father of the late John Cessna, of Bedford, and grandfather of the subject of this sketch. John Cessna, fourth, was born June 30, 1821, in Colerain township. He was educated at Marshall College, Mercersburg, Pa., and subsequently taught school until 1844, when he returned to the college as Latin tutor. Reading law in the office of the Hon. Samuel M. Barclay, of Bedford, he was admitted to the bar on June 25, 1845. He practised mostly in Bedford, Fulton, and Franklin Counties, somewhat in Blair, Somerset, and other counties, also in the Supreme Court of the State, being indefatigable in his attendance at every session in this district except two, when he was unavoidably absent. [285] As an advocate he displayed signal knowledge and ability; and in the administration of trusts he was efficient and faithful, as executor or administrator and guardian looking after the interests of more than two hundred people. For six years he was a member of the House of Representatives in the Pennsylvania legislature, his first term being in 1850, his last in 1872. He was Speaker of the House in 1851 and in 1863, and for his ability and impartiality received at the close of each session a unanimous vote of thanks. So accurate was his knowledge of parliamentary law, and such was his efficiency and tact as a presiding officer that, when a member of Congress, to which he was elected in 1868 and 1872, he was often called to serve as Speaker pro tem. and in Committee of the Whole; and on one memorable occasion, during the contest over the Civil Rights Bill, under the Speakership of James G. Blaine, Mr. Cessna occupied the chair during an all-night session. His decisions on all these occasions were received as final. In 1865 he was chairman of the State Central Committee (Republican), and that year the whole State ticket was elected by a majority of over twenty-two thousand. In 1880, as chairman of the Republican State Committee of Pennsylvania, he not only effectively organized the ranks in his own State, but rendered distinguished and invaluable services toward securing for Garfield the votes of Indiana and Ohio, services which prominent politicians in those States did not fail handsomely to acknowledge in words of high appreciation and esteem. In 1893 he was a member of the Pennsylvania legislature, and served on all the important committees of that body. He was president of Franklin and Marshall College of Lancaster, Pa., twenty-eight years previous and up to the time of his death. As a citizen of Bedford the Hon. John Cessna did not fail to concern himself with the development of the resources of the county and the opening up of needed avenues of traffic. He was foremost in pushing forward the construction of the Bedford & Bridgeport Railroad, and from 1870 to 1885 was its president. Upright, public-spirited, and capable, he could not fail to command the confidence and win the regard of his fellow-citizens, and going hence, to leave to his children the inheritance of a good name. He was married at Mercersburg, Pa., on September 24, 1844, by the Rev. John W. Nevin, D.D., to Ellen J. Shaeffer, daughter of Daniel Shaeffer, Esq., of that place. They shortly began house-keeping in Bedford. Of the seven children born to them, five grew to maturity. One of these - namely, Carrie C., now deceased - was the wife of Robert L. Gearhart, of Bellefonte, Pa. Three still make their home in Bedford. They are as follows: Daniel, the elder son; M. Etta, wife of E. S. Doty; and Harry. Harry Cessna was born August 8, 1865, and was educated in the common schools of Bedford and Franklin, Marshall Academy and Marshall College, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Arts as a member of the class of 1887. Reading law with his father both before [286] leaving college and after, he was admitted to the bar in 1889, and until his father's death, which occurred on December 13, 1893, he practised with him. He has since succeeded to his father's practice. In political affiliation he is a Republican. Mr. Harry Cessna was married December 18, 1890, to Miss Flora Eaby, daughter of George and Rachel (Reese) Eaby, of Lancaster, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Cessna are members of the Lutheran church. They have two children: George E., born December 1, 1891; and Helen Reese, born May 18, 1894. [296] REV. JACOB FICHTNER is a prominent citizen of Londonderry township, Bedford County, where for more than a quarter of a century he has been doing local ministerial work. He was born February 3, 1827, in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, the place of birth of his parents, Jonathan and Hannah (Martz) Fichtner. He is of German ancestry, belonging to one of the early families of Southern Pennsylvania. His grandfather, Martin Fichtner, spent his entire life on a farm in Somerset County, his homestead, not far from the town of Berlin. Jonathan Fichtner lived with his parents until of age, and thereafter continued his residence in Somerset County until 1839. Com- [297] ing then with his family to Bedford County, he located in Harrison township, where he was for many years a citizen of much influence. He subsequently moved to Londonderry township, and during the closing years of his life he made his home with his son Jacob. In both of these townships he served in various local offices, and for three years he was County Commissioner, having been elected by the Republican voters, with whom he was identified. He died in October, 1894, in the eighty-eighth year of his age, honored and respected by all. His wife rounded out a period of ninety-two years. Of their three children two are now living, namely: Jacob, the subject of this sketch; and Martin, who resides in Missouri. The Rev. Jacob Fichtner acquired his elementary education in the district schools of Harrison township, where the first twelve years of his life were spent. Gifted by nature with good mental ability, he took delight from his earliest days in reading such books as were within his grasp, and by special study of subjects interesting to him he obtained much general information. He also became very familiar with the Bible. Early in the seventies Mr. Fichtner settled in Londonderry township, at Palo Alto, where he has since lived. He came here from West Virginia. Before living in that State he had spent a few years in Benton County, Iowa. He owns a valuable tract of land, containing four hundred and eighty acres, and in addition to his labors in the cause of Christianity he is successfully engaged in farming. For over fifty years he has been a member of the United Evangelical church, under whose auspices he has worked so faithfully and with such good results. He is especially interested in the education of the young, and during the two terms that he was on the School Board of Londonderry township, one of which he was president of the board, he rendered good service. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Fichtner has been twice married. His first wife, Jennie Rowser, of Bedford County, Pennsylvania, died at an early age. He afterward married Annie E. Cook, daughter of the late Thomas Cook, of Harrison township. Of this union seven children have been born, of whom six are living, namely: Emma I., wife of James H. Wilhelm; Jennie, wife of Harmon Hoselrough; Virgy M., wife of J. M. Dennison; Myrtle E., wife of Daniel Diehl; Lonie I., wife of C. H. Mauck; and John L. [298] DANIEL WALTER, a venerable citizen of Bedford township, Pa., has for many years been prosperously engaged in agricultural pursuits on his fine and well-improved homestead. He was born March 4, 1822, in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. His father, Jacob Walter, Sr., was a son of Joseph Walter, one of the very early settlers of this section of the State. Jacob Walter, Sr., was a lifelong resident of Bedford County. In his early manhood he followed the carpenter's trade, but later on he settled down as a farmer in Bedford township, where he spent the closing years of his life. He was a man of sterling principles and an active member of the Reformed church. His wife, whose maiden name was Mary Dibert, bore him six children, all of whom reside in Bedford township. They are: Samuel; Daniel, the special subject of this brief sketch; Mary A., wife of Frederick Zimmers; Anna M., wife of William Phillips; Jacob; and Walter. Daniel Walter received a limited education in the subscription schools of Bedford township, and on the parental homestead obtained such a thorough knowledge of the various [299] branches of agriculture as led him to adopt farming as an occupation. Energetic, persevering, and an excellent manager, he has fully earned the large measure of success that has crowned his efforts. His farm, with its fine improvements, including a commodious residence and excellent farm buildings, is one of the most desirable pieces of property in this locality. He is a valued member of the Reformed church, and in politics is a Democrat. Mr. Walter married Mary A. Sills, who is a daughter of Abraham Sills, a prosperous farmer of Bedford township. Her paternal grandfather, George Sills, was one of the original settlers of this township, having taken up the land now owned and occupied by Mr. Walter in Colonial days, while it was yet in its primitive wildness. Though he and his family had to endure all the privations and hardships that beset the pioneer, they toiled uncomplainingly, and wrested a comfortable home from the wilderness. Mr. and Mrs. Walter have but one child living, a son named Frank. Their only daughter, Sarah J., died when five years old. [300] FREDERICK ZIMMERS, who owns and occupies a finely improved farm of eighty-two acres in Bedford, Bedford County, has been closely associated with the agricultural interests of this township during the greater part of his active life. A son of the late Anthony Zimmers, he was born in Bedford, Pa., May 15, 1825, and was named for his paternal grandfather, Frederick Zimmers, who [301] was one of those brave pioneers to whom Oliver Wendell Holmes referred when he said, "For there was never a clearing made in the forest that did not let in the light on heroes and heroines." Anthony Zimmers was born in Bedford, and here spent his entire life, being chiefly engaged in farming pursuits, an occupation that in his day was beset with difficulties that required steady persistency and much resolution of purpose to conquer. His wife, whose maiden name was Catherine Kaufman, was born and bred in the neighboring town of East St. Clair. Frederick Zimmers grew to manhood on the home farm, where as a youth he was required to perform the duties usually assigned to farmers' boys. In the subscription and public schools of his district he was well drilled in the three principal branches of learning then taught - reading, writing, and arithmetic. Since beginning the battle of life on his own account, Mr. Zimmers has carried on general farming with excellent pecuniary results. He has long been well known in the community as an earnest advocate of the principles of the Republican party and a public-spirited and loyal citizen. Taking an active interest in all things tending to advance the welfare of the township, he has not shirked the responsibilities of office, and has served acceptably as School Director several terms. Mr. Zimmers married Anna M., daughter of Jacob and Mary (Dibert) Walter and a sister of Messrs. Samuel, Daniel, and Jacob Walter, all of whom are represented in this biographical work. Three children have been born of their union, namely: John Watson, of Bedford township; Mary Emma; and Franklin Bruce. Mr. and Mrs. Zimmers are both valued members of the Lutheran church, which he has served with fidelity as Elder the past twenty years. [302] DAVID CALHOUN, a well-known resident of West Providence, Pa., by occupation a tiller of the soil, was born in this township, April 6, 1829, a son of John and Rebecca (Wilkins) Calhoun. His father was a native of Virginia, and his mother was born and brought up in Fulton County, Pennsylvania. John Calhoun was reared to manhood in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, whither his widowed mother came with three little children very soon after the death of her husband. She located in West Providence township, which she made her permanent home, living at first with her family near Everett, but afterward at Clear Ridge, where she spent her remaining days. John Calhoun became in course of time a citizen of influence, and in many ways assisted in advancing the prosperity of the township. He [303] was active in public life, serving for a number of years as Constable. In politics he was early identified with the Whigs. In after years he became a stanch supporter of the Republican party. In every respect he was a worthy type of the stalwart men of our country, who have made their own way in life by continuous industry and steadfastness of purpose. In religious matters he was an active worker in the Reformed church from the days of his youth until his death in 1864. David Calhoun has claimed West Providence as his home during his entire life. In a small log school-house, sitting on a slab seat supported by wooden legs, with a rough board fastened to the log wall for a desk, he conned his first lessons, and practically obtained his early education. Schools were then supported by subscription, and gave but meagre advantages to the would-be scholar as compared with the modern institution of learning; but who shall say that the present day and generation can produce men and women of greater mental ability and force of character than those that assisted in moulding public affairs during the first half of the nineteenth century? On November 20, 1864, Mr. Calhoun, then a member of Company C, Eighty-second Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, went with his regiment to Virginia to join Sherman's army, in which he did duty until the close of the conflict. On April 9, 1865, he was at Appomattox and within two miles of the place where General Lee surrendered. On being mustered out of service, in August, 1865, he returned to his home in West Providence, where he at once resumed his former occupation of a tiller of the soil. He owns a well-improved farm of sixty-one and one-half acres, and makes a good living for himself and family. He is a loyal Republican in his political affiliations and a valued member of the Christian church, toward the support of which he contributes most liberally. In 1859 Mr. Calhoun married Miss Lucinda Kegg, daughter of the late Sebastian Kegg, of West Providence. Nine children have been born of this union, namely: John H., Andrew, deceased; Frank; Barton C.; Amanda E., wife of William Biddle; Mary E.; Martha R.; Myrtle; and Ada. [305] GEORGE ELLIOTT, a venerable and much respected citizen of Cumberland Valley, Pa., was born in this township on March 17, 1817, son of Thomas and Martha Elliott. The founder of the Elliott family of Pennsylvania, it is supposed, came from England. Many of his descendants in this State have been prominent and influential citizens. Thomas Elliott was an early settler of Cumberland Valley, Bedford County, and as a man of practical ability and good judgment occupied an honored position in the community. He purchased wild land, and reclaimed a comfortable homestead, on which he resided until his death. He was a Democrat in his political views, and for a number of terms he served as Road Supervisor in Cumberland Valley. Of the children born of his union with his wife, Martha, three survive, namely: Elizabeth, wife of John Dickens; George, the particular subject of this brief sketch; and Ruth, widow of Lloyd Rice. George Elliott in his boyhood received a limited education in the subscription schools of his native town, and this he has since supplemented by good general reading. During his early manhood he worked for three or more years at the carpenter's trade, but he has devoted the larger part of his long and useful life to agricultural pursuits. Energetic and enterprising, he has by diligent labor accumulated a fine property, and upon his well-kept farm of two hundred and twenty-five acres of land can be seen unmistakable evidences of a careful and wise proprietorship. During his time he has witnessed many changes in the town and county, in the improvement of which he has ably assisted. Mr. Elliott is a Democrat in politics, and formerly served a number of years as Road Supervisor. In March, 1854, Mr. Elliott married Rebecca Wertz, who was born in Cumberland Valley. Her father, Jacob Wertz, was a pioneer of this section of Bedford County, and was for many years one of the leading citizens. He was active in town matters, and was for some time Constable of Cumberland Valley township. He reared several children, of whom these three are now living: Rebecca (Mrs. Elliott); Francis Wertz, of Cumberland Valley; and Susan, wife of Patterson Oliver, also of Cumberland Valley. Mr. and Mrs. Elliott are both valued members of the Methodist Protestant church, with which they united many years ago. They have had six children, and have been bereft of four. The survivors are: William J., of Cumberland Valley township; and Ida J., wife of John P. Anderson, of Baltimore, Md. [306] SAMUEL SHAFER, a venerable and prominent citizen of Kimmel township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania, and an extensive land-owner, was born in the neighboring town of Colerain, September 23, 1824, son of John and Elizabeth (Hess) Shafer. He is of pioneer ancestry, being the grandson of Adam Shafer, a soldier of the Revolution, who removed from Franklin County, Pennsylvania, to Bedford County during the latter part of the eighteenth century. He took up land in that part of the county now known as Shafer valley, which was named in his honor. Indians then frequented this part of the State, the dense forest, the home of wild [307] animals, being their happy hunting-ground. He reclaimed a farm, and here passed the remainder of his days, dying at the venerable age of ninety-two years. John Shafer was ten years old when he came with his parents to Shafer valley. He was reared to habits of industry and thrift, and on attaining his majority he became a pioneer of Kimmel township, where he carried on farming several years. He subsequently removed to Colerain township, this county, and was for many years one of the foremost citizens of that place. He was identified with the Whigs until the formation of the Republican party, when he became one of its strongest adherents. He served a number of years as one of the directors of the Bedford County almshouse, and was an active member of the Lutheran church. His wife, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Hess, was born in Kimmel township, Bedford County. Samuel Shafer first attended the subscription schools of his native town, and later continued his studies at the public schools of Colerain. He has made farming his life occupation, and in the prosecution of his chosen calling has been eminently successful. From time to time he has purchased additional tracts of land, and is now the owner of six hundred and thirty-four acres, his farm being one of the best equipped and best improved in the county. A man of strong personality, possessing sound judgment and good financial ability, he is prominent in town and county affairs, and has served with credit in many official positions. For fifteen years he was School Director in Union township, which formerly included his homestead property within its limits, and he was one of the seven men appointed to make a contract for the County Almshouse at Bedford township and to oversee its construction. Twenty or more years ago he was a candidate for the office of County Commissioner, running on the Republican ticket, which he invariably supports; but he was defeated by a small majority. Mr. Shafer was twice married. His first wife, whose maiden name was Sophia Mortimore, bore him three children, namely: David, deceased; Henrietta, wife of George W. Mauk, of Claysburg, Pa.; and John A., of Osterburg, Pa. He subsequently married Mrs. Catherine Moses, daughter of the late Frederick Mechtley, of Pleasantville, and widow of George F. Moses, late of Greenfield, Pa. Mr. Moses at his death left her with two children, namely: Marion M., of Altoona, Pa.; and Annie M., wife of E. A. Kilhefner, also of Altoona. Mr. and Mrs. Shafer are both members of the Lutheran church, in which he has served both as Deacon and as elder for many years. MARTIN V. ZETH, the leading general merchant of Hopewell, Pa., has been eminently successful in business, and is recognized throughout this part of Bedford County as an able financier. He was born in January, 1838, in Blair County, this State, a son of Jacob Zeth. He is of German ancestry, his paternal grandfather, [308] John Zeth, the emigrant progenitor of the family, having been born, bred, and educated in the Fatherland. After coming to the United States, John Zeth located permanently in Blair County, Pennsylvania, where he became a land-owner and carried on general farming to some extent. Jacob Zeth, son of John, was born near Sarah Furnace in Blair County. A well- educated man, he was a surveyor by occupation, and in addition to his work with chain and compass he owned and operated a grist-mill. He served as an officer in the State militia for many years, being commissioned as Major and afterward Colonel. He was familiarly known far and wide as Major Zeth, and was very popular with all classes. Martin V. Zeth was reared and educated in Blair County. In 1857 he came to Hopewell township to assume charge of the Lemnos Iron Works Company's store, which was located at Yellow Creek. Three years later he accepted the position of book-keeper for the firm of Lowery, Eichelberger & Castner, iron manufacturers, with office and factory in the village of Hopewell, and remained with them as bookkeeper and clerk until 1873. In that year Mr. Zeth established himself in mercantile business on his own account, and he has since built up a large and lucrative trade in general merchandise. From 1860 until 1873 he was also agent for the Huntingdon & Broad Top Mountain Railway company, conducting all their business in Hopewell; and for a brief period he was identified with the coal mining interests of Broad Top Mountain in this county. Mr. Zeth is a strong Republican in politics, and, though not an aspirant for official honors, has served as School Director at Broad Top township, and is now a member of the Hopewell borough council. Mr. Zeth married Miss Sarah Porter, of Pittsburg, Pa., and they are the parents of six children, namely: Andrew J.; Annie, wife of John Langdon; John L.; Minnie, wife of R. E. Madden; Mary P., wife of R. C. Talbot; and Frank M. [312] SOLOMON DICKEN, who owns and occupies an excellent farm in Cumberland Valley, Bedford County, is held in high respect as an upright and loyal citizen. This township, in which he was born on July 24, 1824, was also the birthplace of his parents, Moses and Elizabeth (Brill) Dicken. Moses Dicken, it is said, was a soldier in the War of 1812, when he did duty on the frontier. He was a lifelong resident of Cumberland Valley township, and served several years as Tax Collector. Of his children the following survive: John, of whom a biographical notice may be found elsewhere in this volume; Henry; Mary A., residing in Maryland, widow of the late John Davis; Solomon; Ruth, widow of Francis Rice, late of Cumberland Valley township; and Elizabeth, wife of James H. Brotmarkle, of Illinois. Solomon Dicken obtained his early education, a practical knowledge of the three "R's," in the subscription schools of his day, oftentimes being obliged to trudge four miles through snow and sleet to the primitive log cabin in which, during the three winter months only, the school was held. From his earliest manhood until the present time farming has been his principle occupation. He has made many improvements on his homestead, which gives evidence of a wise and thrifty ownership. During the closing period of the Civil War Mr. Dicken served about six months in Company C, Twentieth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. With his regiment he marched under General Sherman to Atlanta and thence [313] to the sea, and subsequently went to Richmond, Va., where he was mustered out. Largely endowed with public spirit, he is confidently relied on by his fellow- townsmen to support any measure likely to benefit the town or county, and he rarely disappoints them. In politics he invariably sustains the principles of the Democratic party. Mr. Dicken's first wife was Christena Hardman, a daughter of the late Philip Hardman, of Cumberland Valley township. After her death he married Lucy E. Vicroy, daughter of James Vicroy, late of this township. GEORGE W. McLELLAN, an energetic and successful agriculturist of Colerain township, Bedford County, was born in Colerain, March 2, 1843, a son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Morgart) McLellan. Abraham McLellan was born in Delaware. He came with an uncle, a Mr. Pierson, to Bedford County, Pennsylvania, when a boy, and he grew to manhood on a farm about three miles from Everett. Early thrown upon his own resources, he worked at anything that he could find to do, sometimes being employed as a farm hand, sometimes driving a team. When old enough to learn a trade, he served an apprenticeship at shoemaking, which he subsequently followed a number of years. After his marriage with Elizabeth Morgart, of Bedford County, he came to Colerain, where he purchased a good farm of two hundred acres, the homestead now owned by his son George W., and for about fifty-eight years, or until his death, in 1882, carried on general farming with good success. A firm supporter of the Democratic party, he took an active part in local affairs, and for a time served as Tax Collector of the township. For a number of years he was officially connected with the State militia as the head of a company, and was familiarly known as Captain McLellan. He was a Deacon in the Baptist church. Of his children the following-named survive: Mary, widow of John James, late of Colerain, Pa.; John H. C., also of Colerain; Josiah, of Somerset County, Pennsylvania; Thomas R., living in Ohio; and George W. George W. McLellan in his boyhood obtained a limited education in the district schools, which he attended in the winter seasons. His subsequent advancement in learning has been by reading and practical experience. Having succeeded to the ownership of the parental homestead, he has since been prosperously engaged in its management, and as a general farmer and stock-raiser ranks second to none in the neighborhood. Well endowed with public spirit, he takes a keen interest in all things pertaining to the welfare of the town in which he has spent his life, and has served for a year in each of the following-named offices - School Director, Assessor, and Supervisor, having been elected to each on the Democratic ticket, which he invariably supports. He belongs to the Baptist church, in which he is now serving as Deacon. Mr. McLellan married Annie R., daughter of Benjamin Greenland, late of Fulton County, Pennsylvania, and they have four children, namely: Charles E., who married Drusilla Perdew, by whom he has one son, George E.; Hubert A.; Chester G.; and Mary L.