History of Cumberland and Adams counties, Pennsylvania. Containing history of the counties, their townships, towns, villages, schools, churches, industries, etc.; portraits of early settlers and prominent men; biographies; history of Pennsylvania, statistical and miscellaneous matter, etc., etc, Part 99

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Publisher: W. Taylor
Number of Pages: 1280

USA > Pennsylvania > Adams County > History of Cumberland and Adams counties, Pennsylvania. Containing history of the counties, their townships, towns, villages, schools, churches, industries, etc.; portraits of early settlers and prominent men; biographies; history of Pennsylvania, statistical and miscellaneous matter, etc., etc > Part 99
USA > Pennsylvania > Cumberland County > History of Cumberland and Adams counties, Pennsylvania. Containing history of the counties, their townships, towns, villages, schools, churches, industries, etc.; portraits of early settlers and prominent men; biographies; history of Pennsylvania, statistical and miscellaneous matter, etc., etc > Part 99

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535

SILVER SPRING TOWNSHIP.

CHAPTER LVI.

SILVER SPRING TOWNSHIP.

GEORGE W. BEST, farmer, P. O. Mechanicsburg, was born in 1850, in Monroe Township, this county. His father, John Best, of German origin, a resident of Mon- roe Township, was born in Lower Allen Township, Cumberland County, Penn. Hle was united in marriage with Miss Anna Bitner, a native of York County, Penn., who bore him thirteen children: Catharine, Elizabeth, Susan (deceased), Anna M., Joseph, Sarah (deceased), Margaret (deceased), George W., Samuel, Martha, Agnes and two who died in infancy. John Best who was a prosperous man, owning three farms, died at the age of sixty-five years. lle was a member of the United Brethren Church; in politics a Republican. His son, George W., received his education in the common schools, and, in 1875, married Miss Clara L., daughter of Jacob H. and Rachael (Strock) Coover, who were the parents of six children: Elizabeth, Francis E., Catharine A., Mary Z., Clara L. and John A. Jacob II. Coover was born in Upper Allen Township, this county, and lived on his farmi there for many years; politically he was a Republican. Ile was busi- ness manager of the East Pennsborough Fire Insurance Company and a good business man. Hc aud his wife were members of the Bethel Church. Mr. Best is a Republican in politics.

JOHN BOBB, farmer. P. O. Mechanicsburg, is a grandson of Nicholas Bobb, who came from Germany and settled in this county about the year 1795, and owned two farms. Nicholas Bobb was the father of nine children: John, Daniel, Michael, George, Catharine, Mary, Barbara, Elizabeth and Margaret. Of these, John came to this county with his fa- ther when a young man. He was a carpenter by trade and afterward became a farmer. He married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Martin Longsdorf, of this county, by whom he had four children: George, Margaret, John and Elizabeth. In 1800 Mr. Longsdorf built the brick house at Trindle Springs, called the "Trindle Springs Hotel." It is of interest that two of John Bobb's brothers married wives whose Christian names were Elizabeth and had the same complement of children as himself-two sons and two daughters. He was a member of the Lutheran Church. In early life he worked at the carpenter and cabinet-maker's trade, and erected several of the old buildings still standing in Silver Spring Township. John Bobb, Jr., his son, was born in the township August 26, 1813. He learned the trade of carpenter. In 1836 he married, Miss Margaret, daughter of IIenry and Mary Nagle, and to this union were born three children: Elmira M., Henry M. and Anna E. ; Ilenry M. the only one living. John Bobb, Jr., bought land near New Kingston. this county, in 1837, where he lived for seven years. Ile then moved to the Sailor farm, which he purchased April 1, 1847, and there resided until 1875, when he bought his homestead on Trindle Springs road and erected his present substantial buildings. The house is

pleasantly situated, and is likely to remain in the family for many generations. Mr. Bobb is a strong Democrat, and in past years worked hard for his party. Ile has filled town- ship offices, such as collector, assessor and school director, and has also been county com- missioner. He has been administrator, executor and assignee for several estates, etc., and has settled all these matters with wisdom and without the loss of a dollar. That he de- serves the respect and confidence of the community is beyond a question.

1JENRY M. BOBB, the son of above, is an engineer. In May 1860, he married Miss Margaret J. Armstrong, of Mechanicsburg, Penn. To this union were born seven chil- dren: Ella S., wife of Charles Waggoner, of this county (have two children: Luella M. and Mary A.); Minnie E .; John M. married to Emma Chapman, of Mechanicsburg; James A .; Henry A. ; George F. and Maggie M.

JOHN BRICKER. . farmer, P. O. Hogestown. The Bricker family, which stands among the first families of Cumberland Valley, sprang from strong German stock, who settled in Lancaster County at an early date. Jacob Bricker, the grandfather of our sub- ject, was born in Lancaster County. IIe married Miss Mary Fry, of the same county, and a few years later moved with his family to Cumberland County, and settled in Silver Spring Township (this was about the year 1812). He soon bought the Silver Spring Mill, prospered in business, and by his energy and thrift, accumulated $80,000, which he left at his death to his two sons. The estate consisted of six farms, embracing over 900 acres of land, the mill property, and. a house in Mechanicsburg. llis wife bore him two sons: Lewis and Peter. A very stout man, he was very active and industrious, and noted for his thrift and strong common sense. He lived to the patriarchal age of eighty-four years.

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Peter Bricker, the eldest son, was born in Lancaster County, Penn. He married Miss Kate Buttorf, of Cumberland County. To this union were born six children: George, Peter, Jacob, Samuel, Mary and Susan. His father gave him a farm which he had purchased of George Bobb in 1829, and here he settled after marriage, and in the old house built by Mr. Bobb in 1817 all his children were born. His wife died, and he theu married Miss Mary Bricker, of Cumberland County. To them were born ten children: David, Lewis, Joseph, Jolın, Levi, Christine, Eliza, Catharine, Clara. and Ella. Peter Bricker continued to reside on the same farm until 1860, when be moved to another of his farms, now owned by Jacob Meily. By perseverauce, prudence and energy. Mr. Bricker accumulated property which, at his death, was valued at $162,000, which was legally divided among his children. John Bricker, our subject, was born in the old homestead July 11, 1848. In 1871 he mar- ried Miss Sarah M. Gross, of this county. They have been blessed with eight children: James, Peter, Lemuel, Clarence, Lawrence, Naomi, Bertie, and Mary. At his father's death he went to live with his family in the old homestead, where twenty-nine members of the Bricker family first saw the light of day and passed out to fight the battle of life. Since 1829, when Jacob Bricker bought the old homestead. none but Brickers have tilled the soil of the old farm. It is the cradle of the descendants of Peter Bricker. Like his father before him, John is a prosperous man, and well known for his industry, thrift, and honesty.

LEVI BRICKER, farmer, P. O. Hogestown, is a grandson of Jacob Bricker, who was born in Lancaster County, Penn. The family is of German origin, his ancestors set- tling in this country in a very early day, and Brickersville, in Lancaster County, was named for the great-grandfather. Jacob Bricker, already mentioned. married Miss Mary Fry, of Lancaster County, and had two children: Lewis and Peter. In 1812, when the latter was about six years of age, his father moved to this county and settled in Newville, where he followed milling. A few years later he purchased the Silver Spring Mill, which he owned for over forty years. He removed to Mechanicsburg a few years before his death, which occurred in 1867. He was a Republican in politics, a very sociable, prosperous and relia- hle man, and left a large property at his death. Peter Bricker, his son. was born iu Lan- caster County in 1807. He too, learned the miller's trade. He married Miss Kate, daughter of George Buttorf, of this county, and to this union were born six children : George, Peter, Jacob, Samuel, Mary and Susan. His wife died, and he married Miss Mary Bricker, of this county, daughter of David Bricker. To this union were born ten children: David, Eliza, Kate, Lewis, Joseph, Johu, Levi, Clara, Christian and Ella. Even with such a large family, Mr. Bricker contrived, by energy and prudence, to accumulate a large property, consisting of nine farms and the mill property in Silver Spring Township, estimated to be worth $162,000. In politics he was a Republican. Our subject was born on the old home- stead, in this county, September 29, 1850, and passed his early life on the farm. In 1874 he married Miss Bella, daughter of George Breistline, of Cumberland County, and has two children: Mary and Willie. After marriage Mr. Bricker began farming on his own xc- count. Like his father before him, he is a Republican in politics. He is a reliable, hon- orable business man.

JESSE BUCHER, farmer, P. O. Mechanicsburg. According to tradition the great- grandfather of this gentleman and his two brothers emigrated from Germany to America at an early date, and from them sprang the Buchers of Pennsylvania. Christian Bucher (grandfather of subject), was born on the farm where his father originally settled. near Union Station, Lancaster Co., Penn. His son, Christian Bucher, was born on the old home- stead, which had then seen three generations of this family within its walls. He learned the trade of miller, which he followed in Lancaster County thirty-two years. In 1835 Christian Bucher married Miss Leah, daughter of George Youndt. of Lancaster County. Penn., who bore him six children: Jesse, Lydia A., Elizabeth. John, Isaac and Henry (all born in Lancaster County). In 1857 he moved with his family to Cumberland County, and bought a farm of 216 acres, where he remained so long as he lived. He and his wife were members of the Lutheran Church, He was a man of remarkable force of character and will-power; beginning life with nothing, by thrift and industry he accumulated a hand- some property and was enabled to assist all his children to start in life. Jesse Bucher,

his son, was born in Lancaster County, Penu , in 1836, and came to this county with his father when a young man. He learned the trade of a miller, and followed it until he came to this county. In 1863 he married Miss Mary, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Kanogy) Crow, of Perry County, Penn. This uuion has been blessed with three sons: Albert H., Henry W. and Stewart E. After marriage Mr. Bucher bought, in 1865, his present home- stead, which is a fine farm of 137 aeres. The sons. now young men, are all at home. and the entire family is noted for thrift and those qualities which go to make up a successful life.

GEORGE CLEPPER, farmer, P. O. New Kingstown. is a grandson of Joseph Clepper, of German descent, who lived in Lancaster County all his life. Joseph. his son, was born in that county in 1817, and wheu only three years old was brought by his step-father, Jacob Holdemon, to Cumberland County, Penn. Joseph Clepper learned the miller's trade of Mr. Holdemon and afterward the millwright's trade. In 1844 he married Miss

537

SILVER SPRING TOWNSHIP.

Lydia, daughter of George and Hannab (Senseman) Hauck, of this county. To them were born tive children: George. Lydia A., Lucetta, Hannah J. and Joseph. In 1852. Jo- soph Clepper entered agricultural pursuits, and passed the remainder of his life on the farm. He died in 1873 at the age of fifty-six. He was a mau of excellent moral princi- ples, highly esteemed by all who knew him. George Clepper, his son, was born in South Middleton Township. this county, in 18-19. When about twenty-two years of age he visited the principal Western States and cities. lle returned after two years and a half to this township, having had a varied experience as a traveler. He began farming in 1882 near New Kingston, this county. on 213 acres, which, by industry and energy combined with the skill of a practical farmer, he has converted into a model farm. The larger proportion of bis stock is improved breeds. It is his custom during the fall to buy young Western cattle, which he fattens for market, and he has now thirty two head of steers in splendid condi- tion, stall-fed aud ready for market. This farm deserves more than a passing notice, as it is an example of what can be accomplished in this county by industry, intelligent methods and skill. Mr. Clepper is an upright man and thoroughly understands his business.

ROBERT CORMAN. manufacturer, P. O. Mechanicsburg. Prominent among the capitalists and manufacturers of Cumberland Valley stands the name of Robert Corman. Beginning life as a poor boy, in this county, he, by his own industry and self-denial. has risen step by step to his present position of wealth and honor. His grandfather, Ludrick Corman, lived in Lebanon County, Penn., and was of German descent: he married a Miss Nimomaker, also of Lebanon County. Peon., and had nine children: George, John, Jacob, Abraham, Philip. Henry, Catharine, Mary and Eliza. He was a farmer by occupation; in political opinions a Democrat. Hle enlisted in the Revolutionary war, serving under Gen. Washington, and was one of the soldiers who passed the severe winter at Valley Forge, and, shoeless, ragged and hungry, braved almost death itself for the cause of free- dom. A proud spirited gentleman of the old school he refused a pension for his services, as he thought it unbecoming in a patriot to take money from his (at that time) poor coun- try. Many years thereafter he was unfortunate, and a pension was applied for, his name was found on the roll, but so much time bad elapsed that all who knew him as a soldier were dead, and he could not be identified. Thus the soldier and patriot was not rewarded in his old age by the Government his services had helped to create. John Corman. his second son. was born in Lebanon County. Penn., April 9, 1778, and learned the trade of cooper. He married Elizabeth Campbell, born in Cumberland County, Pent .. June 14, 1788. a descendant of the famous Campbells of Scotland, a branch of which had settled in Ireland, and our subject is therefore of German and Scotch-Irish descent. To John and Elizabeth Corman were born nine children: William, Robert, John, Agnes, Joseph, Charles, Eliza, George and Campbell-all dead but Robert and John. Of these. George was captain in Company F. Fifty-sixth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and lost his life in the second battle of Bull Run. His remains were not recovered, although his brother Robert went to the battle-field to obtain them, but rest on Arlington Heights, in the great tomb, with over 2,000 unknown soldiers. Our subject's father was an old-line Whig; he was a man of wonderful memory, and some remarkable incidents are yet remembered of this faculty. Ile was a quiet man, and a very honorable, good citizen. Robert Cormau's mother had great influence on his character, and when young taught him to be self reliant, honest and industrious. He as isted her all he could, and she would say, " Robert, the good Lord will reward you." In after years her words came true; for, relying on her advice, he amassed a fortune, and cau well thank her for her part in his suc- cess Robert Cormau was born March 30, 1810, bear Warm Springs, Perry Co., Penn. At the age of four years he came with his father to Cumberland County. Ile lived with his parents on the farm until about nineteen, when, becoming discoutented with farm life, he told his father he must make more money. Robert Bryson had offered to teach him tanning, and he went to live with him as an apprentice, possessing nothing in the world but an extra suit of clothes. Hle served three years with Mr. Brysou, and at the end of this time the latter offered him $11 a month and board. He continued to work for him for seven years as journeyman tanner. and during this time his wages were increased to 50 cents per day. Even with these small wages young Robert had, by strict economy, saved $700, which had been invested with Mr. Bryson on interest at 6 per cent. Becom- ing discontented at not getting along faster. Robert started for Cincinnati, then a young and growing city of 42 000 inhabitants, the journey thither being made by rail, steam-boat and stage. Still looking for work he went to Covington, Ky., and applied to a Mr. Grant. who ran a tannery there. Mr. Grant told him he could not give him employment as he had only a small tannery, but few vats, and he and two little sons did all the work; one ground the bark and the other handled the hides. The power was furnished by an old horse. Mr. Grant spoke very kindly to Robert Corman, who was a little discouraged, and hade him be of good cheer, that work would soon be found. This Mr. Grant was the father of Ulysses S. Grant, and it is very possible that Gen. Grant himself was one of the little boys helping his father at this humble occupation. Mr. Corman soon obtained work at his trade, and at the end of two years and a half had saved $ 75 in gold. Hle next went to Kittanning, Penn., and worked there at his trade, and in about eighteen months had saved

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BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES:

$700. Mr. Bryson, his old friend and employer, became embarrassed in business, and wrote him, offering a one-third interest in his tannery, which was accepted, and Mr. Cor- man retained this interest eleven years, working industriously, and during this time saved $12,000, bought 28 acres of land and built himself a fine house. October 2, 1849, he married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of John and Ann (Blair) Bailey. To this union was born one daughter-Laura-November 28, 1856; since married to Harry C. Gross, of Har- risburg, son of Dr. Daniel Gross. In 1853 Mr. Corman's partnership with Mr. Bryson was dissolved by mutual consent. Mr. Corman then rented his residence for a number of years to a nephew of Mr. Bryson, and hiring an old tan-yard at Trindle Spring, engaged in the tanning business for seven years, and while thus engaged built what is known as the "Florence House," in Carlisle, and which was the first four-story house in the city. He erected this building in ninety days, driving from the tannery to Carlisle each day. Dur- ing these years Mr. Bryson had again beeu unfortunate, and assignees were chosen. His property consisted of a steam tannery in full operation, well stocked with about $40,000 worth of bark and hides, over 200 acres of land, a fine mansion and other buildings. This large property was bought by Mr. Corman at the assignees' sale for $18,000; the war being in full progress no one would bid any higher. At the end of three years Mr. Corman wound up his business, and sold the property and stock for $59,000, making a clear profit of $41,000. He then moved to Mechaniesburg and invested in 7-30 United States bonds. by which he largely increased his wealth. In 1866 he went on a pleasure trip overland to California, in company with Col. McCormick and John Haldmon, of Harrisburg, Penn. He visited Chicago, Denver, Salt Lake City, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon and California, and at San Francisco took steamer for New York. His wife died in March, 1867. He then bought an interest in the Trindle Spring paper-mill, which enterprise proved unfortunate to the stock-holders, but no one else lost a dollar. Mr. Corman then bought the property and converted it into a tobacco warehouse, buying three adjoining farms, which he culti- vated and commenced raising tobacco. December 11, 1884, he was married to his second wife, Miss Eliza, daughter of Peter Bricker, of Silver Spring Township, this couuty. Mr. Corman is remarkably strong and active, and seems younger than most men of fifty. He has had a varied career, and is a man of mark. During his life he has taught sixteen youths the art of tanning, and in his many business enterprises has employed a large num- ber of men. To Robert Bryson and his family Mr. Corman attributed much of his suc- cess, for they gave good counsel, encouragement, and were kind to him in the dark days of adversity, treating him like a son. Four principles to success are shown in our suh- ject's active life-energy, industry, economy and honesty; and the young men of to-day may well emulate his example.

ZACHARIAH DEITZ (deceased). The family of Deitz originated in Germany and came to America in an early day. Daniel Deitz came from York County to Cumberland County, Penn., and settled in Hampden Township. He married Lydia Stonner, of York County, who bore him six children: David, Christian, Zachariah, Naney, Mary and Betsey. Daniel Deitz was a member of the Lutheran Church. He was a large land-holder, and at his death left his property to his children. Zachariah Deitz, his son, was born in York County, Penn., February 24, 1828, and came to this county, with his father, when a small boy, and here passed his early life on his father's farm. March 11, 1862, he married Miss Anna Roth, of Cumberland County, daughter of Ferdinand and Anna (Seifert) Roth. This union was blessed with six children: John E., Norma A., Minnie C., Clayton Z., Ferdinand R. and Harry E. After marriage our subject came to Silver Spring Township and hought the present homestead where all the children were born. Here he lived happily for twelve years, blessed with good health, a comfortable home, loving wife and a fine healthy family of children, when suddenly, by a sad accident, all was changed, and the strong man and loving father was stricken to the earth, and, after a lingering illness, died in great suffering, leaving his wife to the task of bringing up and educating his young children. This great labor she has performed with true fidelity and courage, and now sees them nearly grown to manhood and womanhood as a reward for her trouble.

JOHN E. GIBBLE, farmer, P. O. Hogestown. This family originated in Germany and came to this county at an early date. The grandfather of this gentleman was born in Lancaster County, Penn .; was a farmer and the father of five children: Samuel, Chris- tian, John, Fannie and Mary. He was a member of the German Baptist Church, com- monly called Dunkards. He died in Lancaster County. Samuel, his son. was born in 1809, iu Lancaster County, Penn .; he married Miss Nancy Eshleman, daughter of John Eshleman, of Lancaster County, Penn. To this union were born five children: Curtis, Catharine, Fannie, Salinda and John E. In 1844 Samuel Gibble moved, with his family, to this county and settled in Silver Spring Township. He was a very religions man, a member of the German Baptist Church; in politics a Republican; he died aged fifty years, greatly respected by all. John E. Gibble, our subject, was born in July, 1852, and passed his early life on his grandfather's farm. In 1885 he was united in marriage with Miss Mary A., daughter of Daniel Trortle, of Cumberland County. In political opinions he is a Democrat. He resides on a good farm, pleasantly situated near Hogestown. where he lives quietly with his wife and aged mother. He is a reliable man and a good farmer.

539

SILVER SPRING TOWNSHIP.

GEORGE F. HAILMAN, farmer, P. O. Mechaniesburg. This family originated near Heidelberg, Germany, and immigrated to America more than one hundred years ago. set- tling in Lebanon County, Penn. John F. Hailman, the grandfather of the subject of our sketch. was born in Lebanon County, Penn., and went to Dauphin County when but a boy, with his father. Hle, John F., married Miss Elizabeth Miller, of Franklin County, Penn., who hore him ten children: Sarah, Rebecca, Lydia, Susan, Elizabeth, Mary A., Mary J., David, Jonathan and Benjamin M., all born and reared on the old homestead, which was owned by the family for more than one hundred years, and consisted of a fine farm and residence, located within a mile and a half of Harrisburg. Benjamin M. IFail- man was born on the same old homestead August 19, 1800, and lived on the old farm thirty- eight years. In 1834 he married Miss Jane, daughter of George and Christianna Rupp, of Cumberland County, Penn., and a descendant of John Jonas Rupp, the founder of the Rupp family. (I. Daniel Rupp, the historian, was Mrs. Hailman's brother.) This union was blessed with four children: Elizabeth. Christianna, George F. and Jobn C. In 1838 Benjamin M. Hailman moved to Silver Spring Township, this county, and settled on the farm belonging to Mrs. Hailman's father, where they lived until 1849, when they moved to the present homestead. Mr. Hailman was a Lutheran, but always attended the Church of God, of which his widow is a member. In politics he was a Democrat until the war, when he became a Republican. He died at the age of seventy-nine. His widow is now living on the homestead, pleasantly situated, and in her old age is surrounded by her children and grandchildren. George F. Hailman, the son of this estimable couple. was born in Silver Spring Township, this county, in 1840. In 1879 he married Miss Julia, daughter of Henry and Caroline Kornbrust, a native of Germany. They are the parents of two children: John G. and Carrie E. In political opinions our subject is a Republican. Ile is a prominent farmer in his township, and desires no better reputation than that of being a skillful farmer and an upright man.

JOHN E. A. HERMAN, farmer. P. O. Middlesex. Cumberland Valley has no name of more antiquity and honor than that of Hernian, and among the sons are men of high rank and great ability. Martin Ilerman, a native of Germany, landed in Philadelphia, Penn., July 2. 1752, and on the 15th of April. 1771, settled on a tract of land called "St. Martin's," in Silver Spring Township, this county, and this land, where he lived and died. has been in possession of his descendants one hundred and fifteen years. Ile had two sous: Christian and Martin. Of these, Christian was born on the old homestead, and in the course of time became a large land-holder and prominent farmer, owning 640 acres of land. lle married Miss Elizabeth Bowers, and to them were born ten children: John, Jacob, Mary, Ann, Martin, Christian, David, Elizabeth, Benjamin and Joseph. Ile was a short, strong man physically, and died at the age of sixty-one years. Jolin, the eldest son of Christian Herman, was born on the old homestead in 1797, and passed his early life on the farm: was married, in 1818, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of George and Rachel (Leidigh) Beltzhoover, who bore him ten children: Christian, Rachel A., Henrietta, Ma- nasseh. George T. B., John E. A., Margaret, Elizabeth, Joseph L. and Benjamin F. In 1821 he, John Herman, bought his father's farm, in Silver Spring Township, this county. He was a member of the Lutheran Church, serving as deacon and elder for many years. He died aged sixty-three. His son John E. A. Ilerman was born on the old homestead in March, 1836. In 1859 he married Miss Eliza J., daughter of Daniel Fought, and to this union were born two children: Mary E. and Bertha J. Mrs. Herman died in 1868, and March 13. 1873, our subject married Miss Lizzie A., daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth (llorner) Zeigler, of this county. In 1865 he purchased a farm in Monroe Township. this county, where he lived three years. In 1870 he purchased his present home in Silver Spring Township, a fine farm, pleasantly situated. Mr. and Mrs. Herman are members of the Lutheran Church. He is a man of excellent business habits, energetic and upright. In politics he is a Demoerat.

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Author: Publication date: Publisher: W. Taylor Number of Pages: 1280

Author:
Publication date:
Publisher: W. Taylor
Number of Pages: 1280